Inzaina is from Arzachena, Italy which is located on the island of Sardinia off the coast of Italy. She has travelled to places such as, France, Italy, Spain, the United Kingdom, Egypt, Tunisia, and Germany but even after having visited all these countries she decided to study for a full year in America.

“I chosed [sic] to come to America because for me it was a dream. Fortunately I won a scholarship and I could choose between America, UK and Ireland, and I chosed the United States,” Inzaina said.

After arriving in Fort Atkinson she has travelled with her host parents, Bill and Terry Johnson to St. Louis, Missouri, Chicago and Springfield, Illinois. From visiting these famous American cities she got the opportunity to learn about historic people and places, such as the 16th president Abraham Lincoln. Travelling to these places made the beginning of her stay in America interesting because it gave her chances to see parts the the United States other than just Fort Atkinson. Inzaina and her host family plan to visit New York in the spring, which will give her another opportunity to see how diverse different parts of America are.

While seeing many parts of the United States proved to be exciting for her, the real excitement came when the school year commenced. Schools in Italy differ from schools here and unlike American schools, Italian high schools don’t have sports teams, so our somewhat intense commitment to our sports teams came as a bit of a surprise to her. She has attended a few sporting events while in America, like going to a Brewers game as well as school football and volleyball games.

The cultural differences between American and Italy are vast and Inzaina has had the chance to see some of the differences first hand during her time here.

“Some differences are language of course, then people are different, food, clothes, teenagers’ life, school, almost everything,” Inzaina said.

Although Fort Atkinson is unlike the school she attended in Arzachena, Inzaina is really enjoying her time in America thus far.

“I like the Fort High School, because it’s completely different, everything is new: lockers, people, language, subjects! It’s pretty interesting,” Inzaina said.

It’s the unique differences between America and Italy that will hopefully make her year here very memorable and fun.

The fall musical captures the life of a confused Egyptian princess who battles with capture and freedom of not just her own personal life and safety but the lives of others weighing down on her shoulders.

“I think its a good choice! It’s classic theater, but it’s still fun and modern and its something people can relate to,” Freshman Blair George said.

Who knew that Egypt could be a romantic place? Ancient Egypt can be a enticing place where Aida and Radames learn the enthralls of danger and love at the same time.  As Aida is captured by Radames’s parents the cast sings  Fortune Favor Brave a song liked by many roles in the play.

Along with the stress in the musical plot stress often arrives for actors and actresses trying out for the foreign musical. Nerves and excitement adds to the adrenaline running through each performers veins.

“While like most actors and actresses there are nerves and there is a point in that they are pumped to audition, for me it was both,” Engstrom said.

A repeat of the much liked past musicals are the hopes for this one as well with many experienced performers to fill out the cast.

“About 10 or 12 I think,” Engstrom said.

As Aida works on navigating her way out of this dangerous situation as well as maintaining her relationship with her love Radames the cast audience alike await the final performances of Aida.

Her fourth US #1 single, “Hold It Against Me” is fun and cute but lacks that special certain something.  Though it quickly became an overnight hit, the song falls short of a “best song of the album” title. It’s not the worst, but songs such as “Big Fat Bass” (featuring will.i.am), “How I Roll” and “(Drop Dead) Beautiful” (featuring Sabi) are far superior tracks.

“(Drop Dead) Beautiful” is reminiscent of the earlier songs that made Britney famous and will make everyone, everywhere dance at the drop of a hat.  The beat packs a dance-infused punch to Lady Gaga’s best and proves even more that Britney really is the new Madonna.

Unfortunately, the producer covered up her talented voice with loads of auto-tone.  So much in fact, that I officially take back what I said about Ke$ha’s excess use of it, because Brit tops it with this album.  Without it, the album would still be great (think pre-auto-tune overabundant hits such as “Stronger” and “Toxic”), and the generous use is not only overwhelming, but completely unnecessary.  

Overall, the album is sure to be a success and is a treat to see Brit reign once again as the queen.

2. How will having the opportunity to be Artist the Month improve your future art creations?
I think the opportunity won’t really sway anything because art isn’t about the awards you win. It’s about how much you love it when you’re alone. It might make me wonder if something is good enough, but not make me push myself to try to “do better” so I can earn an accomplishment.

3. How long have you been taking art classes?
My first art classes were in grade school but really I started in 8th grade and just did really well so I decided to continue.

4. What has been your favorite art project? Why?
My favorite project was for sure the mask. My favorite part was seeing it come together with the little accomplishments, when finally got the under eye bags and when I mixed the perfect skin color.

5. What was your reaction when you won Artist of the Month?
I was really astonished and excited. I couldn’t believe it or stop smiling. I was so surprised and was so jazzed to tell everyone about it.

6. Why do you like taking art?
It’s kind of a freedom like, are they really letting us do this is school? It gives me the ability to give new life, a part of yourself, in something that starts out blank. It’s the closest thing to pure potential out of an inanimate object.

7. What was the most difficult part of creating your mask? Why?
The details were so hard to get just right. With things like a mask I turn into a perfectionist and just stress. I usually start out hating the project and by the end I’m so proud of what I’ve done.

8. Do you plan to continue art in the future? Why or Why not?
I wish that I could say that I do but with so many classes to take and AP and honors homework to take are of I don’t know if I could fit it in. I really do love doing it and it would be amazing to pursue as a career, but it’s just not as practical as I’d like. I really wish it was because it would be a dream job most definitely. I’d much rather have a pallet of paint stains over my arms than stress lines from clinical work.

“As a teacher, I want them to take away new knowledge and appreciation of theatre and all of the work that goes into producing a show.  Other than that, I hope they leave with good memories, new friends, and more confidence than they came in with,” Play Director and English teacher Kate Schultz said.

The spring play titled The Plot, Like Gravy, Thickens, is a murder mystery, during which the audience gets to interrogate the characters. The audience’s interaction with the characters proves to be a unique component to the play. The cast includes 19 students which is the biggest cast Schultz has ever used for a play. There are 14 principal actors and 5 understudies but some of the principal actors are also understudying other roles, which gives the actors the opportunity to portray multiple roles. There are a variety of students who have been involved in theatre before, but over half of the students in the cast haven’t been involved in a winter or spring play at this school before. The diversity of students involved in the play allows them to mingle with people outside of their group of friends. “I enjoy being part in a play because I like being with everyone and interacting with them. It’s always different in every play I’ve been in,” Junior and assistant director Conner Staples said.

Schultz possesses a degree in theatre and believes acting to be an art and a great way for students to get together to produce a final product. Working together to do a play helps build teamwork and determination. “I like being a part of the production of a play and seeing the accomplishment that comes out of it,” Senior Kate Murley said.

Being involved in the spring play is exciting for many new students to be involved in their first play, but also is bittersweet for many seniors being involved in their last play in high school.
Overall, Schultz chose to direct plays because it is fun! Hanging out with students and having fun with them if one of Schultz’s favorite things about directing plays. Others include seeing the actor’s passion on stage and how she can relate to them.

In the past, Murley has been costume designer for plays and was the assistant director for the winter play. She has been involved in plays since her sophomore year. She has had fun throughout high school and doesn’t want to leave, but will be pursuing in theatre in her college years.

Staples has been involved in plays since his freshman year. Students in the play enjoy the chemistry and bond that is formed with other actors.

Aquarius (Feb. 16 – March 11): The pungent scent of deception may fill your senses with despair on the 12th, remember to be on your guard against those who are not what they seem.

Pisces (March 11- April 18): A stranger may become an important aspect of your future success on the 28th. Don’t let fear of the unknown restrict your opportunities. It is essential that you make the first move.

Aries (April 18 – May 13): A surprising occurrence may delay previous plans on the 18th. Do not let this development throw you off your game, the situation will be resolved in an unexpectedly positive way.

Taurus (May 13 – June 21): Beneath all the baggage you carry with you lies a secret that may resurface on the 9th. A talk with a trusted friend may prove very enlightening to your troubled mind.

Gemini (June 21 – July 20): The demon inside of you may surface at the most inopportune time on the 13th. Allow your loved ones time to recuperate after your venomous outburst.

Cancer (July 20 – Aug. 10): A routine trip to the grocery store on the 7th may become a life changing event. Dress accordingly.

Leo (Aug. 10 – Sept. 16): While your dreams may seem somewhat far-fetched, don’t be weighed down by the manacles of society. Remember to follow your own aspirations and continue on your noble quest.

Virgo (Sept. 16 – Oct. 30): Your nightmares may be realized on the 21st so arm yourself with wisdom and knowledge (and maybe some garlic) to defeat your mysterious foe.

Libra (Oct. 30 – Nov. 23): A problem you thought had been resolved may return in an unexpected way on the 16th. Be wary of what might be lurking over your shoulder.

Scorpio (Nov. 23 – Nov. 29): A lovable creature will enter your life on the 14th. Unfortunately this creature will prove to be incredibly unruly. Don’t be wooed by its deceptive charms.

Ophiuchus (Nov. 29 – Dec. 17): Avoid the math pod on the 25th. A series of unfortunate events will lead to a regrettable and embarrassing incident that will go down in the history books.

Sagittarius (Dec. 17 – Jan. 20): Though thoughts of adventures may creep into your mind on the 22nd, remember to stay levelheaded and don’t let ludicrous pondering cloud your perception of reality.

Morning lap swim starts at 5:30 every weekday morning.  Typically, the swimmers are older and use the open pool to stay in shape.  The lifeguards, however, have to wake up attentive and alert to keep the swimmers safe.

The job requires student guards to wake up in the dark coldness that is winter as well as during the mild an bright summer mornings.

“I felt sleep deprived for the first two weeks. After two weeks, my body got used to the deprivation,” Lifeguard Jason Straub said.

According to sleepfoundation.org, biologically it is difficult for teens to fall asleep before 11:00 p.m, and waking up early is not as easy for teens as it is for older and younger people. Also, being short on sleep restricts the ability to learn, listen, concentrate and solve problems.

Negative aspects of small amounts of sleep might not pop up until later in the day.

“I usually feel pretty good throughout the day considering I’m a morning person, but Mondays suck! I sometimes take caffeine pills throughout the day to stay awake,” Straub said.

Early morning jobs also require early nights, sometimes resulting with missed or shortened opportunities to hang out with friends.

“I haven’t missed anything, but I have had to leave early from things. Mostly from hanging out with friends. If I do miss anything, it’s because my mother doesn’t think I’ll be able to wake up,” Straub said.

The benefits of the job prove to be higher then the loss of sleep.  Money can be a huge incentive for many teens taking less than desirable jobs.

“I decided to take this job, because I desperately need the money, and it’s a really easy job and nice pay. At the time it doesn’t feel worth it, because it really sucks getting up that early in the morning. I know that in the future it will be worth it when it comes to paying for college and such,” Straub said.

Although people are encouraged to get jobs they love, in high school this does not seem as important.

“This job hasn’t benefited my life to much other than the experience, meeting people, and once in a while I may finish up some homework,” Straub said.

Even though waking up early in the morning can be a pain, students who do it reek the benefits of the added cash to their wallets.

Signal: What was your inspiration for your art?

Jourdyn Cluver: I do a lot of Tigger because my family calls me Tigger.  I do a lot of at-home projects that are of animals.  I have a lot of animals at home.

S: What is your favorite animal to draw?

JC: My favorite animal to draw is [SIC] horses.  I got a book that taught me how.  Or I like drawing animals without fur.

S: What do you enjoy about art?

JC: It’s just fun to hear people’s reactions to it.  When I’m really stressed out, I work on it.  It’s a stress reliever.

S:What is your favorite medium to use? Why?

JC: Probably pencil and sketches because you can shade a lot.

S: How long have you been involved in art?

JC: I have been involved in art forever.  When I was in kindergarten, my teacher would always tell my mom I was good at it.

S: Where do you hope your art takes you in life?

JC: I always wanted my art to be in a museum, but that already happened.  Cygnus bought a piece of my art, so I haven’t come up with any new goals.  In the distance there was a light house and a seal.  

Influenced by the musical styling of bands like Coheed and Cambria, Junior Jake Gerard, Sophomore Josh Gerard, Lucas Bielejewski from Cambridge and Senior Nick Saunders have started a project to satisfy their appetite and love for music.  Essentially a band without a name, the Gerard’s and his friends play in Saunders’ basement most of the time.  Jake and Lucas shred guitar, Josh slaps the bass, and Nick rocks the drums. All the boys started playing their instruments fairly early on.

“I had a little crappy guitar that I would play here and there, and then one day I saw an Avenged Sevenfold music video on MTV.  I heard awesome guitars and music these guys played, and I knew I wanted to learn how to do that. Playing guitar then made me want to learn other instruments and made me discover hundreds of different bands from every genre,” Jake Gerard said.

As they grew as artists individually, the members discovered the hunger to share their music with others. For them, starting a band was just the next natural step. When they get together to share their talents, the musicians collaborate to create their own music that they all enjoy playing and listening to.

“I think playing and listening to music can help to act as an escape from pressures and problems, and it influences you to try new things and be overall more courageous,” Josh Gerard said.

Participating in this project for these guys is not about trying to hit it big or make a name for themselves, it is about spending time doing the thing they love. They are just hoping to keep a great hobby, expand on their talents with other musicians and express themselves.

 “[Being in a band] will just help me aspire as a musician and broaden my playing styles and how I think about music in general and hopefully I will meet a lot of new people,” Saunders said.

As they feed off each other to discover new riffs and beats, the members of the musical project are growing as a group and as individuals to improve their musical talents and lives outside of the basement.

From the get-go, the player is given the opportunity to assassinate Cuban dictator Fidel Castro in a successful Bay of Pigs invasion, thrusting them into an alternate Cold War reality.  While sticking to the same style of gameplay that has made Call of Duty the most successful video game franchise ever, Black Ops has a few new tricks up its sleeve.

Motorcycles, cars, and zip-lines are just a few of the exciting new features available in campaign mode.  These only add to the experience, allowing the player to defeat enemies not only by convential shooting, but by mid-air zipline kills or running them over with a car.

The true trademark of Call of Duty, however, is online play.  While, once again not messing with success, Treyarch has given gamers a few more goodies to play with.  Players on large kill streaks can receive perks such as explosive RC cars, guided missiles, and controllable attack helicopters.

Also, for the first time, players can give their soldier an identity with face paint, personalized weaponry, and various other perks.  All of these features added give Black Ops one of the most complete online experiences of any game on the market today.

One of the biggest disappointments of Black Ops comes in the graphics department.  In true World at War form, the graphics of Black Ops look too unsophisticated and sleek.  While previous installments in the series have successfully created a dark, war-like mood, the world of Black Ops feels fun and playful, due in part to emphasis on scenery and noticeably brighter landscapes.  This imagery created may have its place, but its continued use throughout gameplay creates a scene far too serene to evoke images of the Cold War.

Black Ops is a great game, sure to please everyone from novices to experienced gamers.  While it has added some features, allowing the series to keep progressing, there is no outstanding aspect of it that puts it in the same category as its Modern Warfare counterparts.