Features
Reagan's Life saviors
Alexxus Hart
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Ronald Reagan’s first blood drive of the 2016-2017 school year collected 66 whole blood and 8 for 16 units in doubles, which adds up to 82 pints in total. Each pint of blood saves about 3 lives, so all of Ronald Reagan’s 99 donors can save approximately 246 people in need.
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Some of Reagan’s volunteers include:(Back row) Barbara Luevano , Daisy Avila, Hannah Smith, Samantha Budney, Guadalupe Rangel, Sofia Ruiz (Front row) Zulma Donan,, Autumn Hackett, Sydney Budney.
ADOPT-A-Shelter DOg
VALERIE MECHA
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Puppy Perspective
Sigh, I am stuck behind bars in a cell that smells like strangers. I see strangers’ feet through the glass. I just sit and stare - waiting for someone to let me out. It’s not all bad, I guess. I have a bed. I get fed. Nice people come and take me for a walk every once and awhile. I just wish I wasn’t here. More feet. More smells. Day after day. Wait a minute, wait a minute, something’s happening here! My ears perk up as I hear my name. The feet come into my cell. They are attached to humans!!! They sit down. I give them lots of kisses, and I bark at them. I am happy someone is paying attention to me! They talk. They pet me. They look at me closely. They say my name again and my tail does a little wiggle. They leave. I am sad. I am a sad, lonely dog once again... |
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But they come back! A collar is placed on my neck, the humans get handed a leash, and I am escorted out of the building! I am a new dog! The humans pick me up and put me in their movement machine. I sit on a warm lap. I am in a new building, but I am no longer behind bars.
I am surrounded by toys and treats, a bed and lots and lots of smiles!
I am a happy dog.
I am surrounded by toys and treats, a bed and lots and lots of smiles!
I am a happy dog.
The Human Perspective
Claudia Spice and Stephanie Weinfurter were both interviewed about their perspective on dog adoption and organizations like the Humane Society. October is Adopt-A-Shelter-Dog Month.
Spice’s parents determined that the right age for dog ownership for their daughter was eight. Her family frequently visited the Humane Society and checked their website, determined to find the “right” dog. Finally, there was a litter of Australian Cattle Dog puppies and one, in particular, seemed to be the right fit. Spice adopted her dog, Darwin, from the Humane Society in 2008.
“It’s like adding another member to your family. It’s so much fun have another little personality in your family to make everyone laugh and play with. It’s like having a toddler forever.” Is what Spice described as the most rewarding part of dog ownership is.
She also advises that, “If you want to adopt a dog, make sure you have the time to take care of a dog.” She continues on to explain that too many people adopt a dog when they have a very busy lifestyle. The dog is often neglected and is given the things that help sustain its life, but not the things that help it have a happy life.
Spices closing remark was, “I feel like there are so many dogs in the world that need homes, so I feel like if you are someone who is capable of doing that you should definitely open you mind to dog adoption.”
Weinfurter has been volunteering for the Humane Society every Monday after school since May. She chose to volunteer because she is passionate about what the Humane Society does. “They protect and they provide shelter and care for animals in need.” Weinfurter believes it’s a great organization to support. When asked what the most rewarding thing about volunteering at the Humane Society is Weinfurter responded, “As soon as you open the door, it gets really quiet, and then they see someone's in there and it gets really crazy because they finally have someone there to come in with them. I think their reaction and obviously that they are being cared for is the most rewarding.”
She continues on to say, “At the end of the day, it’s not glamorous at all. They just need to have a clean space and a healthy environment.”
Working at the Humane Society, Weinfurter has had two dogs steal her heart, Sharky and Roxy.
She concluded that the most rewarding part of dog ownership is, “Everything. It makes me happy that they’re happy.” If you are looking to adopt a dog, Ms. Weinfurter advises, “Knowing what you’re looking for ahead of time and talking to people at the Humane Society about the best fit.” This is a way to avoid taking a dog home and later discovering that it’s not going to work out, a process that is painful for both you and the dog.
Weinfurter’s last remarks were, “If anybody is looking for a good cause to support, you really can’t go wrong with providing your time, or resources, or a direct donation because the Humane Society does a lot for the community to make sure the pet population is taken care of. It is a very selfless thing that they do.”
Happy Adopt-A-Shelter-Dog Month!
Claudia Spice and Stephanie Weinfurter were both interviewed about their perspective on dog adoption and organizations like the Humane Society. October is Adopt-A-Shelter-Dog Month.
Spice’s parents determined that the right age for dog ownership for their daughter was eight. Her family frequently visited the Humane Society and checked their website, determined to find the “right” dog. Finally, there was a litter of Australian Cattle Dog puppies and one, in particular, seemed to be the right fit. Spice adopted her dog, Darwin, from the Humane Society in 2008.
“It’s like adding another member to your family. It’s so much fun have another little personality in your family to make everyone laugh and play with. It’s like having a toddler forever.” Is what Spice described as the most rewarding part of dog ownership is.
She also advises that, “If you want to adopt a dog, make sure you have the time to take care of a dog.” She continues on to explain that too many people adopt a dog when they have a very busy lifestyle. The dog is often neglected and is given the things that help sustain its life, but not the things that help it have a happy life.
Spices closing remark was, “I feel like there are so many dogs in the world that need homes, so I feel like if you are someone who is capable of doing that you should definitely open you mind to dog adoption.”
Weinfurter has been volunteering for the Humane Society every Monday after school since May. She chose to volunteer because she is passionate about what the Humane Society does. “They protect and they provide shelter and care for animals in need.” Weinfurter believes it’s a great organization to support. When asked what the most rewarding thing about volunteering at the Humane Society is Weinfurter responded, “As soon as you open the door, it gets really quiet, and then they see someone's in there and it gets really crazy because they finally have someone there to come in with them. I think their reaction and obviously that they are being cared for is the most rewarding.”
She continues on to say, “At the end of the day, it’s not glamorous at all. They just need to have a clean space and a healthy environment.”
Working at the Humane Society, Weinfurter has had two dogs steal her heart, Sharky and Roxy.
She concluded that the most rewarding part of dog ownership is, “Everything. It makes me happy that they’re happy.” If you are looking to adopt a dog, Ms. Weinfurter advises, “Knowing what you’re looking for ahead of time and talking to people at the Humane Society about the best fit.” This is a way to avoid taking a dog home and later discovering that it’s not going to work out, a process that is painful for both you and the dog.
Weinfurter’s last remarks were, “If anybody is looking for a good cause to support, you really can’t go wrong with providing your time, or resources, or a direct donation because the Humane Society does a lot for the community to make sure the pet population is taken care of. It is a very selfless thing that they do.”
Happy Adopt-A-Shelter-Dog Month!
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Music Masters: The 2016 Faculty Recital Corinne Kronschnabel
For the second time in Ronald Reagan history, faculty members with extraordinary musical skill gathered together to create the Music Department Faculty Recital. Performances ranged from romantic arias to improvisational typewriter, and the turnout was absolutely fantastic. The stage was completely filled by a student audience eager to see their teachers perform - so many individuals came that more chairs had to be brought on stage. Even then, some of the audience had to stand.
Here are a collection of videos taken of the concert along with their respective performer’s notes supplied to the audience. If you wish to see your favorite teachers perform, make sure you attend the faculty recital next year!
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VIDEO #1: Adam Murphy (clarinet), “Capriccio for Unaccompanied Clarinet” by Heinrich Sutermeister
“Swiss composer Heinrich Sutermeister composed Capriccio for unaccompanied clarinet in 1946 for the 1947 Geneva International Music Competition. The piece features motivic development, extended harmonies, and schizophrenic rhythm and style changes. The tempo and meter changes frequently as well as sudden contrasts in dynamics.” - Adam Murphy
Here are a collection of videos taken of the concert along with their respective performer’s notes supplied to the audience. If you wish to see your favorite teachers perform, make sure you attend the faculty recital next year!
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VIDEO #1: Adam Murphy (clarinet), “Capriccio for Unaccompanied Clarinet” by Heinrich Sutermeister
“Swiss composer Heinrich Sutermeister composed Capriccio for unaccompanied clarinet in 1946 for the 1947 Geneva International Music Competition. The piece features motivic development, extended harmonies, and schizophrenic rhythm and style changes. The tempo and meter changes frequently as well as sudden contrasts in dynamics.” - Adam Murphy
PERFORMANCE #2: Erica Breitbarth (soprano), Frauenliebe und Leben op. 42 movement 2 “Er, der Herrlichste von allen” and movement 4 “Du Ring an meinem Finger” by Robert Schumann, accompanied by Amanda Draheim (piano)
NOTE: I do not have a video for this one
“These two art songs are taken from a Romantic era song cycle chronicling the life of a woman from the day she meets the man she loves through the full arch of their relationship and ending with the days that he dies. Robert Schumann wrote these pieces for his wife, and fellow composer and pianist Clara Schumann. Written in 1840, this cycle was a part of a group of over 150 songs he wrote for Clara in the year following their forbidden marriage. The first song performed this afternoon describes a women’s elation after her relationship begins with her love and is marked by fast eighth notes in the accompaniment to symbolize her fluttering heart. The second piece describes her joyful engagement and the accompaniment imitates a wedding processional march.” - Erica Breitbarth
NOTE: I do not have a video for this one
“These two art songs are taken from a Romantic era song cycle chronicling the life of a woman from the day she meets the man she loves through the full arch of their relationship and ending with the days that he dies. Robert Schumann wrote these pieces for his wife, and fellow composer and pianist Clara Schumann. Written in 1840, this cycle was a part of a group of over 150 songs he wrote for Clara in the year following their forbidden marriage. The first song performed this afternoon describes a women’s elation after her relationship begins with her love and is marked by fast eighth notes in the accompaniment to symbolize her fluttering heart. The second piece describes her joyful engagement and the accompaniment imitates a wedding processional march.” - Erica Breitbarth
VIDEO #2, PERF. #3: Nicolas Johnson (voice and guitar) and Nicolas Lang (drum set), “Wonderwall” by Noel Gallagher
“The general consensus is that this song is about Noel Gallagher’s then-girlfriend Meg Matthews, who is compared with a schoolboy’s wall to which posters of footballers and pop stars are attached. He told Select magazine at the time: ‘It’s about my girlfriend. She was out of work, and that, a bit down on her luck, so it’s just saying, “Cheer up and get on with it.”’ Noel later married and then divorced Meg Matthews. However, according to Q magazine’s 1001 Best Songs Ever, this was not about Matthews. Noel is quoted as saying, ‘The meaning of that song was taken away from me by the media who jumped on it. And how do you tell your Mrs. It’s not about her once she’s read it is? It’s about an imaginary friend who’s going to come and save you from yourself.’” - Nicolas Johnson and Nicolas Lang
“The general consensus is that this song is about Noel Gallagher’s then-girlfriend Meg Matthews, who is compared with a schoolboy’s wall to which posters of footballers and pop stars are attached. He told Select magazine at the time: ‘It’s about my girlfriend. She was out of work, and that, a bit down on her luck, so it’s just saying, “Cheer up and get on with it.”’ Noel later married and then divorced Meg Matthews. However, according to Q magazine’s 1001 Best Songs Ever, this was not about Matthews. Noel is quoted as saying, ‘The meaning of that song was taken away from me by the media who jumped on it. And how do you tell your Mrs. It’s not about her once she’s read it is? It’s about an imaginary friend who’s going to come and save you from yourself.’” - Nicolas Johnson and Nicolas Lang
VIDEO #3, PERF #4: Heidi Wylie (mezzo soprano), “Si mes vers avaient des ailes!” by Reynaldo Hahn, “Quella fiamma” by Francesco Conti, and “Voi che sapete” by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, accompanied by Amanda Draheim (piano)
“‘Si mes vers avaient des ailes!’ was written as a dedication to Hahn’s wife, Maria. Though this piece is written in French, Hahn himself was Venezuelan. This text is written by Victor Hugo, the author of the book Les Miserables that was later turned into a broadway musical. ‘Si mes vers avaient des ailes!’ speaks of love moving from heart to heart through the air like a bird or spirit. The composition is French Romantic Era in fashion, with chromatic notes at just the right times to emphasize how good love can truly be.
“Though ‘Quella fiamma’ is attributed to Benedetto Marcello, a prominent Venetian composer, upon inspection it was found to be the final movement of a solo cantata called “Cantata di Conti” written by Conti. Though the manuscript did not identify Conti as the composer, the handwriting analysis proved it to be true. ‘Quella fiamma’ is also a song of love, but of much different emotion than ‘Si mes vers avaient ailes!’ While one is loving and beckoning, the other is fierce and pleading.
“‘Voi che sapete’ is a prominent aria featured in the opera Le Nozze di Figaro. Cherubino, a young servant boy, has just found his love for women and can’t seem to contain himself. His emotions swell for every woman he passes, and he doesn’t seem to know what to do with his new found hormones. This aria is an example of a ‘pants role,’ or a part in an opera that is played by a mezzo soprano instead of a male.” - Heidi Wylie
“‘Si mes vers avaient des ailes!’ was written as a dedication to Hahn’s wife, Maria. Though this piece is written in French, Hahn himself was Venezuelan. This text is written by Victor Hugo, the author of the book Les Miserables that was later turned into a broadway musical. ‘Si mes vers avaient des ailes!’ speaks of love moving from heart to heart through the air like a bird or spirit. The composition is French Romantic Era in fashion, with chromatic notes at just the right times to emphasize how good love can truly be.
“Though ‘Quella fiamma’ is attributed to Benedetto Marcello, a prominent Venetian composer, upon inspection it was found to be the final movement of a solo cantata called “Cantata di Conti” written by Conti. Though the manuscript did not identify Conti as the composer, the handwriting analysis proved it to be true. ‘Quella fiamma’ is also a song of love, but of much different emotion than ‘Si mes vers avaient ailes!’ While one is loving and beckoning, the other is fierce and pleading.
“‘Voi che sapete’ is a prominent aria featured in the opera Le Nozze di Figaro. Cherubino, a young servant boy, has just found his love for women and can’t seem to contain himself. His emotions swell for every woman he passes, and he doesn’t seem to know what to do with his new found hormones. This aria is an example of a ‘pants role,’ or a part in an opera that is played by a mezzo soprano instead of a male.” - Heidi Wylie
VIDEO #4, PERF #5: Kristoffer Puddicombe (piano), 4’33” (four minutes, thirty-three seconds) by John Cage
“What is music? What is the difference between music and noise? Is silence music? American avant garde composer and music philosopher John Cage sought to challenge his audience with questions such as these through his famous work.” - Kristoffer Puddicombe
“What is music? What is the difference between music and noise? Is silence music? American avant garde composer and music philosopher John Cage sought to challenge his audience with questions such as these through his famous work.” - Kristoffer Puddicombe
VIDEO #5, PERF #6: Erica Breitbarth (soprano), “Adele’s Laughing Song” from Die Fledermaus by Johann Strauss II, accompanied by Amanda Draheim (piano)
“From Strauss’ famous comic opera, Die Fledermaus, “Adele’s Laughing Song” takes place in the second act of the opera at the costume ball. Adele, a housemaid, lies to her mistress about her whereabouts and sneaks into the ball, pretending to be an actress. She runs into trouble when her master, Sir Eisenstein, notes her striking resemblance to his maid. In order to distract him from her true identity, Adele pokes fun at him and musically laughs at his accusation, showing of her fast coloratura. At the end of the aria, Adele sings a virtuosic vocal cadenza to further fluster Eisenstein and establish her identity as a part of high society.” - Erica Breitbarth
“From Strauss’ famous comic opera, Die Fledermaus, “Adele’s Laughing Song” takes place in the second act of the opera at the costume ball. Adele, a housemaid, lies to her mistress about her whereabouts and sneaks into the ball, pretending to be an actress. She runs into trouble when her master, Sir Eisenstein, notes her striking resemblance to his maid. In order to distract him from her true identity, Adele pokes fun at him and musically laughs at his accusation, showing of her fast coloratura. At the end of the aria, Adele sings a virtuosic vocal cadenza to further fluster Eisenstein and establish her identity as a part of high society.” - Erica Breitbarth
VIDEO #6, PERF #7: Adam Murphy (typewriter and iPad), “Ode to Sholes” by Adam Murphy
“This experimental improvisation is an ode to the inventor of the typewriter and the QWERTY keyboard, Christopher Latham Sholes. A Wisconsin politician and writer, Sholes’ invention made rapid typing possible and continues to be used to this day. The typewriter is a fantastic source of percussive sounds with each word or letter serving as a different motive or pitch.
“An iPad, (which uses a digital QWERTY keyboard) creates synthesized sounds using the TC-11 touch synthesizer app which was invented by UW Milwaukee professor Kevin Schlei. Mr.Murphy plans to invent some strange sounds in this tribute to homegrown Wisconsin creativity.” - Adam Murphy
“This experimental improvisation is an ode to the inventor of the typewriter and the QWERTY keyboard, Christopher Latham Sholes. A Wisconsin politician and writer, Sholes’ invention made rapid typing possible and continues to be used to this day. The typewriter is a fantastic source of percussive sounds with each word or letter serving as a different motive or pitch.
“An iPad, (which uses a digital QWERTY keyboard) creates synthesized sounds using the TC-11 touch synthesizer app which was invented by UW Milwaukee professor Kevin Schlei. Mr.Murphy plans to invent some strange sounds in this tribute to homegrown Wisconsin creativity.” - Adam Murphy
VIDEO #7, PERF #8: Carrie Baker (angsty teen) and Nicolo Onorato (latte boy), “Taylor the Latte Boy” by Marcy Heisler and Zina Goldrich, accompanied by Amanda Draheim (piano)
“This piece was based on the composer’s experiences with dreamy baristas at Starbucks. This piece was made famous by broadway star and Tony award winner Kristin Chenoweth, who included it in her 2005 studio album As I Am.” - Carrie Baker and Nicolo Onorato
“This piece was based on the composer’s experiences with dreamy baristas at Starbucks. This piece was made famous by broadway star and Tony award winner Kristin Chenoweth, who included it in her 2005 studio album As I Am.” - Carrie Baker and Nicolo Onorato
Seeing Double
Freedom Gobel
Samantha and Sydney Budney
Samantha and Sydney Budney, both juniors this year, are identical twins. They share a tight bond, and know each other so well that physically speaking isn’t a necessary form of communication.
“I feel that having someone who has the same interests as you do is nice, and we basically go through the same things together. When we first started high school, we knew that we had each other no matter what,” said Sydney.
Samantha added, “We hang out with the same crowds, we like a lot of the same activities, and we get to share memories with each other every day. I think it would be weird not having my twin around.”
Being an identical twin comes with its fair share of difficulties as well. Both girls claim to be mixed up or confused for the other on a regular basis. Often asked questions include: “If I pinched you, would your sister feel it?”, and “Which one are you?”
Though it may be an extra obstacle having identical twin, both wouldn’t change it for anything. Samantha describes her sister as: my best friend, and Sydney describes Samantha as: like no other.
Samantha and Sydney Budney, both juniors this year, are identical twins. They share a tight bond, and know each other so well that physically speaking isn’t a necessary form of communication.
“I feel that having someone who has the same interests as you do is nice, and we basically go through the same things together. When we first started high school, we knew that we had each other no matter what,” said Sydney.
Samantha added, “We hang out with the same crowds, we like a lot of the same activities, and we get to share memories with each other every day. I think it would be weird not having my twin around.”
Being an identical twin comes with its fair share of difficulties as well. Both girls claim to be mixed up or confused for the other on a regular basis. Often asked questions include: “If I pinched you, would your sister feel it?”, and “Which one are you?”
Though it may be an extra obstacle having identical twin, both wouldn’t change it for anything. Samantha describes her sister as: my best friend, and Sydney describes Samantha as: like no other.
Samantha and Sydney Budney; photo taken by Chelsea Budney
Isaac and Aaron Wells
Aaron and Isaac Wells, sophomores this year, feel that twins are a lot closer that normal siblings. However, similarities don’t stretch far past that special connection.
“People always think that we should be similar in size, intelligence, and personality, but we are very different,” said Isaac. Size, with this pair, is a huge comparative talking point for interested individuals. “I don’t mind, but I know Aaron hates it when people say ‘But why is Isaac so much bigger than you?’ and other questions similar to that,” he continued. Aaron thinks that the most annoying part of being a twin is that people always ask ‘dumb questions’.
“But, I love having a brother, especially a twin, so I wouldn’t want to change anything,” commented Aaron. “I would keep everything the same.”
Isaac said, “I would describe Aaron as cheap, annoying, but somehow still lovable.” Aaron replied with, “Isaac is a good friend, cool, and really smart.”
Aaron and Isaac Wells, sophomores this year, feel that twins are a lot closer that normal siblings. However, similarities don’t stretch far past that special connection.
“People always think that we should be similar in size, intelligence, and personality, but we are very different,” said Isaac. Size, with this pair, is a huge comparative talking point for interested individuals. “I don’t mind, but I know Aaron hates it when people say ‘But why is Isaac so much bigger than you?’ and other questions similar to that,” he continued. Aaron thinks that the most annoying part of being a twin is that people always ask ‘dumb questions’.
“But, I love having a brother, especially a twin, so I wouldn’t want to change anything,” commented Aaron. “I would keep everything the same.”
Isaac said, “I would describe Aaron as cheap, annoying, but somehow still lovable.” Aaron replied with, “Isaac is a good friend, cool, and really smart.”
Aaron and Isaac Wells; photo taken by Madi Larsh
Keagan and Conley O’Keefe
“Being a twin is different because because you always have someone to talk to your own age,” said Conley O’Keefe.
His younger twin by eight minutes, Keagan O’Keefe, added, “I will always have someone that understands life where I am right now.”
New to Reagan as freshmen this year, both agree that having a twin makes it much easier. “You have a twin to help through tough times. You don't know a lot of people on the first day,” said Keagan. “Also, since we have the same subjects and homework, Conley can help me with math when I need it.”
Even though neither would change being a twin, there are daily struggles they endure. “People always call us by each other's name,” said Conley. Keagan commented, “We don't even look alike!”
Both agree that their twin is athletic, caring, and smart.
Sofia and Miguel Ramirez
Some sets of multiples would never want to change their biological relationship with their twin, but Miguel and Sofia Ramirez are curious about the possibility, despite their love for each other.
The most common struggle of being a twin, Sofia says, is “Everyone expects us to be the same and they expect us to do everything together.” Miguel adds, “The hardest part is that she thinks she is the queen.” For Miguel, the advantages of being a twin run low, but Sofia enjoys that they can do similar things because of the minutes difference in age.
Aidan and Casimir Riley
Being twins, for Aidan and Casimir Riley, sophomores at Reagan, means and results in totally different things.
“We are more associated. People see us as ‘the twins’ rather than who we are individually. I think the way we think is a little more similar than our other siblings,” shared Aidan. On the defense, Casimir challenged, “We don't think alike. People think we are supposed to be connected somewhat, but it's no different at all.”
Aidan says that sleeping in the same room is a huge struggle. Casimir responded with, “Aidan is a mess. He doesn’t clean up after himself much, so I make him clean. It's not my mess.”
Another struggle is that no one ever thinks or believes they are twins. “Some people think we look alike, and a lot of people don’t,” said Aidan.
“I spend a small amount of time actually talking to Aidan. We're in that same space a lot but that's not spending time together,” said Casimir. Aidan added, “We don't really hang out that much. We're just in each other’s presence.” However, both claim they know the other very well.
To Casimir, one of the best things about their relationship is the technical difference in age. “I'm older by 8 minutes. I take pride in that. And he's shorter.”
Abigayle and Emily Rasmussen
“Are you the good twin, or the evil twin?” “Are you the smart one?”
Emily and Abigayle Rasmussen are compared all of the time. Above are examples of everyday questions these fraternal twins are asked. “We are around each other all of the time, and we share almost everything, so people constantly compare us two,” said Emily.
“People always seem to ask, ‘What’s it like being a twin?’ I don’t know what it’s like! It’s all I’ve ever known,” explained Abigayle. “We’re also asked, ‘Can you read each other’s minds?’, or ‘Do you have twin telepathy?’ The answer is… No! We are still normal people.”
Being in the same grade has proven to be an advantage for Emily and Abigayle. “Emily is very good at math and I am not, so it's nice that I have someone at home to help,” said Abigayle. Emily agreed, stating that Abigayle is better with English, so they end up helping each other often.
As described by the other, Emily is smart, loud, and kind. Abigayle is obnoxious, talented, and outgoing.
“Being a twin is different because because you always have someone to talk to your own age,” said Conley O’Keefe.
His younger twin by eight minutes, Keagan O’Keefe, added, “I will always have someone that understands life where I am right now.”
New to Reagan as freshmen this year, both agree that having a twin makes it much easier. “You have a twin to help through tough times. You don't know a lot of people on the first day,” said Keagan. “Also, since we have the same subjects and homework, Conley can help me with math when I need it.”
Even though neither would change being a twin, there are daily struggles they endure. “People always call us by each other's name,” said Conley. Keagan commented, “We don't even look alike!”
Both agree that their twin is athletic, caring, and smart.
Sofia and Miguel Ramirez
Some sets of multiples would never want to change their biological relationship with their twin, but Miguel and Sofia Ramirez are curious about the possibility, despite their love for each other.
The most common struggle of being a twin, Sofia says, is “Everyone expects us to be the same and they expect us to do everything together.” Miguel adds, “The hardest part is that she thinks she is the queen.” For Miguel, the advantages of being a twin run low, but Sofia enjoys that they can do similar things because of the minutes difference in age.
Aidan and Casimir Riley
Being twins, for Aidan and Casimir Riley, sophomores at Reagan, means and results in totally different things.
“We are more associated. People see us as ‘the twins’ rather than who we are individually. I think the way we think is a little more similar than our other siblings,” shared Aidan. On the defense, Casimir challenged, “We don't think alike. People think we are supposed to be connected somewhat, but it's no different at all.”
Aidan says that sleeping in the same room is a huge struggle. Casimir responded with, “Aidan is a mess. He doesn’t clean up after himself much, so I make him clean. It's not my mess.”
Another struggle is that no one ever thinks or believes they are twins. “Some people think we look alike, and a lot of people don’t,” said Aidan.
“I spend a small amount of time actually talking to Aidan. We're in that same space a lot but that's not spending time together,” said Casimir. Aidan added, “We don't really hang out that much. We're just in each other’s presence.” However, both claim they know the other very well.
To Casimir, one of the best things about their relationship is the technical difference in age. “I'm older by 8 minutes. I take pride in that. And he's shorter.”
Abigayle and Emily Rasmussen
“Are you the good twin, or the evil twin?” “Are you the smart one?”
Emily and Abigayle Rasmussen are compared all of the time. Above are examples of everyday questions these fraternal twins are asked. “We are around each other all of the time, and we share almost everything, so people constantly compare us two,” said Emily.
“People always seem to ask, ‘What’s it like being a twin?’ I don’t know what it’s like! It’s all I’ve ever known,” explained Abigayle. “We’re also asked, ‘Can you read each other’s minds?’, or ‘Do you have twin telepathy?’ The answer is… No! We are still normal people.”
Being in the same grade has proven to be an advantage for Emily and Abigayle. “Emily is very good at math and I am not, so it's nice that I have someone at home to help,” said Abigayle. Emily agreed, stating that Abigayle is better with English, so they end up helping each other often.
As described by the other, Emily is smart, loud, and kind. Abigayle is obnoxious, talented, and outgoing.
Abigayle and Emily Rasmussen; photo taken by Anna Rasmussen
Author’s Note
I myself am a multiple as well! I have two triplet brothers, Jamaica and Kemet. I can confidently say that they are my best friends. They know too much about me and I know too much about them not to be. Though we occasionally disagree on pointless matters like the Kardashians or whether or not dogs have psychic powers, we don’t really fight and we willingly spend time with each other. Some may think that sharing a birthday isn’t that great, but it would be weird not spending that day together since we’ve grown so accustomed to the system, and the awkwardness is lessened with the birthday song. We experience the same life challenges and milestones at similar times and always have each other for much needed advice. We three take personal amusement in watching people piece the situation together, often ending in a reaction similar to: “TRIPLETS? I feel bad for your mother.” In three words, Jamaica could be described as goofy, stubborn, and energetic. Kemet would be generous, witty, and opinionated. I wouldn’t trade our relationship for the anything in the world.
I myself am a multiple as well! I have two triplet brothers, Jamaica and Kemet. I can confidently say that they are my best friends. They know too much about me and I know too much about them not to be. Though we occasionally disagree on pointless matters like the Kardashians or whether or not dogs have psychic powers, we don’t really fight and we willingly spend time with each other. Some may think that sharing a birthday isn’t that great, but it would be weird not spending that day together since we’ve grown so accustomed to the system, and the awkwardness is lessened with the birthday song. We experience the same life challenges and milestones at similar times and always have each other for much needed advice. We three take personal amusement in watching people piece the situation together, often ending in a reaction similar to: “TRIPLETS? I feel bad for your mother.” In three words, Jamaica could be described as goofy, stubborn, and energetic. Kemet would be generous, witty, and opinionated. I wouldn’t trade our relationship for the anything in the world.
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What’s AT Ronald Reagan?
Alexis Torres
On September 15, a college fair was held in the cafeteria. School representatives from UW-Oshkosh, University of Alabama, and many more, came to Reagan show off their school's qualities and expectations. They are trying to recruit all us Huskies and hope that our student body checks out and applies to their top notch schools.
The official website: http://www.uwlax.edu/
Background Information:
The official website: https://www.indiana.edu/about/index.html
Background Information:
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The official website: https://www.ua.edu/
Background Information:
The official website: http://uwm.edu/
Background Information:
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The official website:
http://www.marquette.edu/academics/ Background Information: -Offers 83 majors and 78 minors, as well as pre-professional programs in dentistry, law and medicine 
The official website:
http://lakeland.edu/ Background Information -30+ majors offered -student- faculty ratio 15:1 -40 clubs and organizations 
The official website: https://www.uwp.edu/ Background Information: -With 37 majors, 40 minors, multiple certificates, pre-professional programs, and online degrees -70 clubs and organizations 
The official website:
http://waukesha.uwc.edu/ Background Information: -Tuition: $5102 full-time, resident, per year -Average Class Size: 23 students |
The official website:
http://www.carroll.edu/ (Not the local college) Background Information:
The official website:
http://www.uww.edu/ Background Information: -Over 70 majors are offered -Student to faculty ratio is 22:1 -12,000 students enrolled 
The official website: http://www.nmu.edu/ Background Information:
The official website:
http://www.uwosh.edu/about-uw-oshkosh/ Background Information:
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“The secret of getting ahead is getting started”- Mark Twain
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A fall favorite: Apple Holler
Morgan stark
Are you starting to feel the brisk cool air or watching the color changing leaves as they plummet to the sidewalk? Fall is finally here and with the new season comes new seasonal adventures to do. There’s picking pumpkins, dressing warmer, eating soups and caramel apples, and preparing for another one of Wisconsin's grim winters. Before December hits, enjoy the incredible experiences that fall has to offer. Apple Holler is a wonderful place to accomplish a good number of these “fall” things.
Apple Holler is a seventy-acre orchard that grows a huge variety of apples and other fruits year round. Although, Apple Holler was not always this beautiful orchard, In the early 1900s, where thousands of apple trees now sit, was a working dairy farm. Until 1987, when the now current owners decided to transform the farm into an apple orchard by planting thousands of fruit trees and adding things this made Apple Holler more family friendly.
Picking apples is not the only thing that Apple Holler has to offer, though. This farm houses many animals such as ponies and goats. In the winter you can have the opportunity to ride in an old-fashioned sleigh and enjoy a nice mug of hot chocolate or cider. Of course you can pick apples or pumpkins in the fall and peaches in the summer, and enjoy a tour of the entire farm. If you're feeling hungry, then stop by the restaurant or bakery to enjoy a tasty snack, where everything is apple based.
Apple Holler is fun for all, with year-round activities for all ages.
Apple Holler is a seventy-acre orchard that grows a huge variety of apples and other fruits year round. Although, Apple Holler was not always this beautiful orchard, In the early 1900s, where thousands of apple trees now sit, was a working dairy farm. Until 1987, when the now current owners decided to transform the farm into an apple orchard by planting thousands of fruit trees and adding things this made Apple Holler more family friendly.
Picking apples is not the only thing that Apple Holler has to offer, though. This farm houses many animals such as ponies and goats. In the winter you can have the opportunity to ride in an old-fashioned sleigh and enjoy a nice mug of hot chocolate or cider. Of course you can pick apples or pumpkins in the fall and peaches in the summer, and enjoy a tour of the entire farm. If you're feeling hungry, then stop by the restaurant or bakery to enjoy a tasty snack, where everything is apple based.
Apple Holler is fun for all, with year-round activities for all ages.
how to prepare for musical auditions
katie gillingham
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Auditioning for anything is a nerve wracking experience. Walking into the room, the first thing on your mind might be something along the lines of; “What if I screw up?” or “There are so many people auditioning who are better than me!” All those feelings are very normal. Auditioning puts you in a very vulnerable position, especially as a teenager. There are many things that we as humans do that give away nerves. Here are some tips for recognizing those feelings and calming those fears.
One thing to keep in the front of your mind, especially in high school theatre: no one is going to judge you. Theatre departments are always the most accepting group of people you’ll ever meet in your life. Typically, kids involved with theatre are full of empathy, and are probably as nervous as you are now. Something that’s rather obvious, especially with musicals, would be to be familiar with the show you’re auditioning for. If you’re trying to figure out the plot of the show through rehearsals, you’ll probably be a bit confused. Look up the soundtrack on Spotify or Google the show and see what comes up. 
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Another key thing to note: the directors aren’t always judging you on talent. Now that sounds rather insane. In all honesty, it sounds like anyone can get through this audition and into the show, right? Well, no, that’s sadly not how this works. From working with professional actors in the past, directors can easily assume that because you’ve showed up at the audition, you have talent. This is especially prominent in professional theatre. A big majority of what it comes down to, is you. Are you confident in yourself and what you’ve prepared? Are you prepared? You carrying yourself professionally is one of the key things to do in an audition.
I had the incredible opportunity to work with actress Angela Iannone, who taught my group about how it doesn’t always matter how you say your lines, but how you portray them physically out to the audience. While we were working on that, she taught us her belief on proper audition technique. Here are her do’s and don’ts: |
- Ladies: Keep your chin tucked, and hold a wider stance
- Speak from the heart of your face, loud and clearly
- Walk briskly, and smile
- Don’t nod your head while you’re speaking
- Move naturally
- “Find your stil”l when you’re in front of your directors
- a.This means find a confident stance. Try not to sway, or fidget with your hands. Walk up, and stand confidently in front of the directors.
- Introduce yourself, it’s the only time your director can see your personality through your words
- When you’re finished, say thank you
Working with her for a week truly worked out personal kinks that I had never noticed I did. Especially while on stage. Personally, I can find my still, but my eyes constantly move around the room, which is yet another don’t while you’re in an audition.
Now that we’ve gone through how to come into your audition, you need to recite the materials. One thing you never do, if you screw up a monologue or you sing a note flat, you never apologize. If you screw up, take it again a little before that, and continue on. You are never required to apologize. One thing many young actors don’t realize, is that the audition slot is theirs to own. Unless you’re doing terribly, a director won’t stop you midway through your piece. Take up your audition time, and when you finish, say thank you and wait for any further comments from your director.
But most importantly, be confident in yourself. If you don’t get in, don’t sweat it. From experience, it’s never as bad as you think it is. Break a leg!
Homecoming and spirt week photos
taken by cheyenne rupert and jackie jones
Funny Halloween Costume Ideas
Leo Espinoza
Looking for some Halloween costumes to entertain your friends and be the funny one in the party Here are some ideas of costumes to use.
Use a common character
Sometimes a common character or a fandom create a good halloween costume. Getting a food themed costume is both comedic relief and a great idea, because the slip on costumes are relatively inexpensive.
Get One of Those inflatable Costumes
To be hillarious an inflatable costume can catch a lot of eyes. Some are pretty inexpensive and others are slightly more expensive. In general they are more expensive for the little fan included. Some of these costumes are very funny. Ranging from a sumo suit, to riding a wild animal inflatables might be a good idea.
Really anything out of the ordinary
Some costumes are satirical and satire is really a form of comedy. Simply use a mask of an important figure and make fun of it. Also a fun costume with a fun theme could also work. Most importantly have fun and get a costume that you feel is what you want.
Use a common character
Sometimes a common character or a fandom create a good halloween costume. Getting a food themed costume is both comedic relief and a great idea, because the slip on costumes are relatively inexpensive.
Get One of Those inflatable Costumes
To be hillarious an inflatable costume can catch a lot of eyes. Some are pretty inexpensive and others are slightly more expensive. In general they are more expensive for the little fan included. Some of these costumes are very funny. Ranging from a sumo suit, to riding a wild animal inflatables might be a good idea.
Really anything out of the ordinary
Some costumes are satirical and satire is really a form of comedy. Simply use a mask of an important figure and make fun of it. Also a fun costume with a fun theme could also work. Most importantly have fun and get a costume that you feel is what you want.
Art by Valerie Mecha
Art by Valerie Mecha
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Art by Valerie Mecha
Art by Valerie Mecha
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Gene Wilder
Eva szocik
Jerome Silberman, who went by Gene Wilder, was an author, film director, an American comic actor in theater and film, and a screenwriter. He passed away due to circumstances connected to Alzheimer’s disease on August 29 of this year and was greatly admired and touched the lives of many.
His Family
His mother: Jeanne Baer Silberman
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Personal photo of Gene and his wife
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Fun facts:
- He was born in Milwaukee and went to a Washington High School (MPS)!
- Gene was raised Jewish, but he claimed to have held only the Golden Rule as his philosophy in life.
- He once served as a fencing choreographer.
- He was married four times.
- Mary Mercier (1960-1965)
- Mary Joan Schutz (1967-1974)
- Gilda Radner (1984-1989)
- Karen Boyer, as previously mentioned from 1991-2016. This was his longest wife, and she was evidently there with him until death.
- He released three novels!
- My French Whore (2007).
- The Woman Who Wouldn’t (2008)
- Something to Remember You By (2013)
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Some of his better known works:
