THE STUDENT VOICE OF ANTIOCH COMMUNITY HIGH SCHOOL
volume 56. issue 10. april 27, 2018 sequoitmedia.com. @achstomtom. @sequoitsports 1133 main street. antioch, illinois. 60002
SPRING SPORTS Antioch Athletics and
the TomTom present
2018 R U O Y T E G
W O N Y P O C
EDITOR’S NOTE 04 Staff Editorial 05 Perspectives 06 NEWS 08 Lifestyles 12 Features 25 Sports 38 What it feels like 40
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table of contents
the tom tom // the xxx issue // April 27, 2018
PERSPECTIVES | April 27, 2018 | The XXX Issue
THE XXX ISSUE taught me the definition of family, and it taught me when to step up and accept a challenge. But, it also taught me how to step back when the time is right. After this magazine goes out, outside of the release of the senior magazine in May, it’s Emily’s time to take charge. It’s been incredibly hard for me to accept that; however, she’s ready. This magazine was my opportunity to try and pass on what I’ve learned in my short year as EIC, and while I couldn’t be more proud of what my staff has accomplished, now is the time for her’s to shine.
Jillian Everett JASON R. WOOD editor-in-chief // @jason_wood7 EMILY M. TORRES asst. digital director // @emily_marilynnt
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eing editor-in-chief is more than just overseeing a publication. It’s crowd control, designing, photographing, writing, editing, and more importantly, maintaining a family. The EIC has to play the parent, the sibling, and the teacher, all while trying to keep themselves sane. The EIC makes the final call on all content choices, and between the two of us, we wanted to be bold in our content coverage this issue. JASON: This magazine is both a beginning and an end, so why not talk about the most controversial topics we could think of? Triple X stands for the taboo, the “frowned upon,” the things we’re not supposed to see in color—the things we’re supposed to see as either black or white. Some people will see the topics within these pages as black or white. As good or bad. As something that should be swept under the rug or as something that needs to be addressed. We, on the other hand, refuse to let our magazine be governed by those who only see in black and white. Well, this is it, the last magazine that I’m able to write about. It’s the passing of the torch, and I think I’m ready. When I was first told that I was going to be Editor-in-Chief, I had to process my excitement, fear and everything else that falls in between that emotional range. Now, I have to face handing over everything that this year’s seniors, and myself, have worked for. It’s so much harder than it sounds. But, when I step back, I realize that the people we’re handing this magazine over to are more than capable of upholding the standards we’ve set. This publication has given me more than I ever expected. It’s made me a better person. It’s taught me how to feel deeper than I ever knew was possible; it
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EMILY: Throughout XXX, I have been learning every in and out of what it takes to be an editor-in-chief. While I haven’t had much involvement regarding this magazine, I have been observing and trying to soak in as much information as possible. XXX is the perfect magazine to finish off our theme of “we don’t see things in black and white.” In this magazine, you will see the many controversial topics that we chose to see in color rather than in black and white, like everything else this year has been full of. You will see many stories from sex to drugs and everything in between. The topics range from the addiction of pornography in “Love, Sex & Magic” written by print director Branden Gallimore, to a story about the culture of drugs in schools and the world, “Digging Underneath The Trip” by senior editor Lauren Bluthardt. We also talk about how the world shouldn’t see things in black and white, rather in color in “The Color of America” by staff member Mollie Wagner, and you will also see a story about bad parenting, or, well, the parents who want to just be everyone’s best friend (whether that is bad parenting or not) by staff member McKenna Kalisz. And that’s not all that this magazine has in store. Jason has been the best role model as he has been an exemplar EIC this past year. I could not have gotten the position I did without Jason believing in me, and I’m so grateful that I got to learn from him this year. As I reflect on this past year, I am ecstatic to begin the next. During my junior year, I have truly found my passion for journalism. I love the idea of being able to see things in color and give voices to the voiceless. This is my passion and I am ready to start this rollercoaster of a journey. Em,
When the exec team first went through trying to choose an Editor-in-Chief for next year, you were my first choice. Through all of the position changes and indecisiveness, you were the only one I was 100% confident on. It’s because of your ability to control that insanity that will be next year’s staff that I knew you were the right fit. You’re infinitely stronger than you give yourself credit for. You’re an incredible writer and editor, but more importantly you care about everyone (even those you tell yourself you don’t). You’re the only one who’s going to be able to keep the Tom Tom family a family. Not just because of who you are as a person, but because I know you care about it just as much as I do. Be confident, you’re usually the only one who doubts yourself. Be brave, be wise, and stay humble. Most importantly, have fun with it, the people you’ll become close with next year will have your back forever. Lots of love,
executive team
JASON R. WOOD Editor-in-Chief PATRICK R. JOHNSON, MJE Adviser JILLIAN M. EVERETT Managing Editor BRANDEN W. GALLIMORE Print Director KAYLEE S. SCHREINER Digital Director NICO L. CHIAPPETTA Public Relations Director CHLOE E.GRASS Creative Director DIANA ANGHEL Print Director ALIYA N. RHODES Creative Director Editorial Board DIGITAL ASSISTANTS Griffin P. Hackeloer Jacob R. Johnson Alex L. Rapp Emily M. Torres
SENIOR EDITORS Lauren N. Bluthardt Jessica L. Lamberty John P. Petty Monica E. Wilhelm
Coordinators SOCIAL MEDIA Jared D. DeBoer Emily C. Hanes Mikayla M. Holway PHOTOGRAPHY Jessica J. Nettgen Steffanie A. Richardson Kat B. Zamudio
TEAM Gianna M. Chiappetta Dan D. Filippone Joseph C. Kestian Benjamin J. Nauman Madisen M. Krapf Eleni A. Sakas Karley K. Rogalski Skyler R. Wackenhuth
staff journalists
Max L. Barton Peter A. Boeh Joyclyn L. Crawford Taylor A. Feltner Merrick W. Foote Avery J. Frasch Kayla E. Grenke Emily A. Higgins Robert S. Hulting Alexandra C. Johnson McKenna R. Kalisz Alexandria Q. Knight
Emily Lara Ella M. Maggio Julia M. Murillo Jadda C. Pope Valerie N. Rasmussen Ashly M. Ring Tyler S. Skutnik Matthew P. Soberano Kevin E. Tamayo Sadie M. Vanderwall Mollie T. Wagner Sierra M. Ward
Haley Aitken Charlotte Bongratz Gavin Calabrese Evan Day Andrew DeBoer Matthew Edmark Brianna Fisher Julia Hackeloer Kaitlyn Howe Jackson Hugener Isabelle Hunter Jake Ilkka Sofia Klem Madison McBride
Alexis Olson Maggie Quirke Alexander Riedel Alessia Rivera Grace Rowe Maya Schon Rilee Schreiner Sarah Smith Cassidy Thomas Katelyn Vaskovsky Beatriz Warnes Alison Weiser Walker Winkler
mission statement
The Tom Tom seeks to not only be the premier source of student news, sports and lifestyles at Antioch Community High School, but it also aspires to do so with integrity, respect, responsibility and pride. The Tom Tom believes wholeheartedly in giving voices to the voiceless through unique engaging methods of storytelling, while engaging with the Antioch community to see diverse and challenging perspectives. In doing so, we choose to tell some of the more challenging or untold stories even when they can be controversial in order to make our community stronger, more caring, and more tolerant. This program envisions a holistic experience of quality journalism through print publications and digital content, as well as promotes student spirit and school culture through innovative and inspiring public relations and advertising campaigns. We are the Tom Tom. We are originals. It would be an awfully big adventure if you choose to come along with us and work as one community, One Sequoit.
THE TOM TOM STAFF
2017-2018
STAFF EDITORIAL
FREEDOM OF THOUGHT
In a world of controversy, we believe it’s defined more by it’s silence.
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Diana Anghel
y the words of Kanye West, “we have freedom of speech, but not freedom of thought.” Everyone has the right to say what they want, but do they have the right to think what they want? We think before we say, but can we truly say what’s on our mind? In reality, it’s us; we have every right to think what we want to, but that doesn’t mean we always do. This generation has grown into the belief that they are allowed to speak their mind, but as time passes, a filter has been created which puts a barrier on what everyone is allowed to say.
these are brought up, many people either label those conversations inappropriate or shy away from participating in an active conversation. We were raised in a generation that taught us to “treat our friends the way you want to be treated” and “if you have nothing nice to say, don’t say anything at all.” But at the same time, we were raised to say what we want and take a stand for what we believe in, as the First Amendment still stands strong behind us. So, which is correct? If we have to filter everything we say or not talk about it because of its negative connotation, then are we actually thinking for ourselves, and
own ideas in regards to the topics found in this magazine. As a society, we shouldn’t take a step back and let important topics go unnoticed. Even though these topics have consequences, that doesn’t mean that they are all bad. Speak your mind. Except when it comes to sex, drugs, immigration, race, religion, gender and politics. Be yourself, but not enough of yourself to offend others around you. Take a stand, but make sure you’re slouching so you don’t stand taller than anyone else.
The reason to why this barrier is so tall and continues to grow is an answer we do not have, but it’s a subject that needs to be discussed. With topics such as sex, religion and politics, which are common and natural events, people choose to not talk about it because of their negative connotation. Whenever topics such as
speaking our truth? It’s always been the Tom Tom’s charge to give a voice to the voiceless, but the more we speak for people, the less people speak for themselves. It’s always been our job to tell other people’s stories—it still is; however, we believe it is crucial for people to start speaking their
We give a voice to the voiceless, but the more we speak for people, the less people speak for themselves. It’s always been our job to tell other people’s stories; it still is. However, we believe it is crucial for people to start speaking their own ideas in regards to the topics found in this magazine. 5
PERSPECTIVES | April 27, 2018 | The XXX Issue
EQUALLY UNEQUAL Have we become so sensitive to other people’s feelings and actions that the thick skin we all claim to possess is really just a hoax? JILLIAN M. EVERETT managing editor // @jilly_everett
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ere decades ago, it was acceptable wisdom to know that some people are better than others at certain things and more deserving in different situations. Assigning degrading and demeaning titles to groups of a particular gender, race, religion, or based on a disability was the norm. We have greatly advanced in this area, particularly as it deals with education. In times past, teachers were not expected to take students’ feelings and self esteem into consideration. Their job was to talk at you, not talk to you. We are not saying that all teachers acted this way, of course, we are just saying that society’s expectations were less about creating a well-rounded human and more about imparting knowledge on a child. Oftentimes, teachers had little regard for students’ unique personalities and views, but now classrooms are built to create healthy and secure people. It seems that we can blame this insensitivity on all of the hardships of the past, perhaps it is easier to understand why they didn’t pay too much attention to “trivial” matters, such as feelings and self-esteem. Physically, we are much better off; not as many people are dying due to hunger or simple infections. This puts us in a position to dwell on our emotions and take into account others’ feelings. Has being too sensitive come at a cost? Has the deliberate, commendable avoidance of focusing on others’ weaknesses also led to a reluctance to focus on strengths—for fear that it will hurt the confidence, feelings or self-esteem of those who don’t possess those traits? Is this reluctance squelching the drive and motivation to pursue these unique talents and passions? We aren’t all the same; we don’t have the same backgrounds or interests, and we don’t excel in the same activities; so why does everyone make it a big deal to push for equality of outcome? If two people are in the same exact situation and one works harder than the other, it is fair for the person who worked harder to have a more successful outcome. On the other hand, equality of opportunity is essential; we must try to make the chances of succeeding as equal as we can, but the outcomes of everyone’s lives should not be the same. Going along with this idea: a kid in school is not going to be hurt by the fact that she isn’t a math
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Jillian Everett
whiz if she knows that she is an artist, or that she is unbeatable on the court. Not everyone has the same talents, so others don’t need to praise someone in a situation undeserving of the praise. As a generation, we have been taught to either treat everyone exactly the same, or say nothing at all and silence ourselves so we don’t “hurt another person’s feelings.” It seems like people are too hung up on labels. It’s human nature to label people, but we need to realize when these labels go too far, we need to just ignore them. We are so afraid to offend people that we have become fake, to a point. This day in age, many people don’t have thick skin, and, as a result, people don’t realize what is true and what is not true. Because we have learned to be ultrasensitive, we have put ourselves into an
almost boy who cried wolf situation. We too often complain and take things seriously, but when the time comes where we actually need to be serious and take action, we don’t. An attitude that all are equal and everyone is good at everything, while it’s certainly healthier than the insensitivity that was once prevalent, will probably lead to mediocrity. Praising someone for a talent they know they don’t possess leads to a lack of trust. Even though these compliments are mostly of good intentions, they ultimately breed dishonesty. We must always be respectful and sensitive towards one another, but this sensitivity cannot originate from pity and a desire to build self-esteem; instead, it should come from a genuine appreciation of others’ gifts and accomplishments.
Rilee Schreiner
COMING FROM A POLICE FAMILY KAYLEE S. SCHRINER digital director // @kayschr06
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t’s one of the first things you hear in the news close to everyday. Another person got shot by another police officer for another reason that doesn’t justify the act. More people turn their heads away from the beneficial acts police officers do subconsciously opting to group them in with the accusatory headlines. But that’s not realistic. That’s not how it really is. The earliest memory I have is from when I was around three years old. My mom dropped me off at a friend’s house frantically, there were dogs barking, the TV was glowing, it was night time. I remember looking down through the railing as my mom walked out the door, and I was left alone in this strange house with strange people. I wouldn’t realize until much later what happened that night my mom dropped me off. I wouldn’t understand until much later that my dad was shot. It’s like something out of a movie, reading about the night my dad was injured. I find it hard to picture the crazed man who had already shot another person firing at my dad. When I really think about it, I see my dad never going down despite having been shot in the shoulder, and I see the rest of his squad backing him up, making sure that man wouldn’t be able to advance further into the neighborhood and hurt other innocent people.
But no one hears about that. Nobody pays attention to a group of police officers stopping a mentally unstable man from hurting more people. Nobody turns their head when a police officer risks their life for someone else, potentially leaving behind family and loved ones of their own. When I tell someone my dad is a police officer, that job title is immediately associated with violence and racism. Every good thing police have done is immediately drowned out by the sickening actions of a few despite the millions who perform their job exceptionally day to day. Police officers like my dad are brave and should not have to be made to feel as though their profession or lives mean less than others because of the negative attention they receive. In times like these, it’s important to remember that the actions of a few do not represent the actions of all. Instead of focusing on the handful of police officers who have been tried for these crimes, people need to start paying attention to the overwhelming majority of officers who are keeping us safe and protected. While there are officers out there who are committing heinous crimes, there are many more, like my dad, who truly do serve to protect.
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NEWS | April 27, 2018 | The XXX Issue
NEWS IN BRIEF MCKAY TO LAUNCH CHARITY EFFORTS FOR PUERTO RICO Following the hurricanes that stretched throughout the island of Puerto Rico in 2017, the world was left witnessing the disastrous effects of mother nature. After hearing about the wreckage left behind, Superintendent Jim McKay made it his mission to take action with an organization called “Relief Through Leadership.” “As a public school superintendent, I feel compelled to assist families and students in need that are fellow American citizens as we have done so for many others impacted by natural disasters on the mainland of America,” McKay said. LAUREN N. BLUTHARDT Want to read more? Head to sequoitmedia. com to read the rest of Lauren’s story.
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chloe grass
ANTIOCH, LAKE VILLA COMBINE FOR ANNUAL BAND FESTIVAL
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osted by Antioch Community High School, the school districts from around Lake County came together on Wednesday, April 25 to perform in the yearly band festival. The musicians welcomed friends and family to join in on the spring celebration. The different schools were taught the songs separately with their instructors and came together for one night to perform in one giant concert. Students are able to show off their music skills in one of the biggest concerts of the school year to showcase their talents. The performance is exciting for all members involved, but especially for younger students, as this is the one time of the
OPENING DOORS AT THE CAREER EXPO Two days ago, students had the opportunity to talk to over 30 business representatives during 4th, 5th and 6th hour, to learn more about these careers, when Antioch Community High School for their first ever Career Expo on Wednesday, April 25, Participants were able to talk to various professionals about their current careers.
year where elementary, middle and high school students are able to play their instruments side by side. Senior Mary Cook plays the baritone saxophone in Wind Ensemble Advanced for ACHS and uses this opportunity to associate with younger bandmates. “This experience is great,” senior Mary Cook said. “We can teach the elementary and middle schoolers what being in high school band is like.” This festival allows students of all ages to come together to display the skills they’ve dedicated their time to. EMILY C. HANES
The event included occupations ranging from pilots and attorneys to marines and pharmacists. The event also included panels with covering specific topics such as successful businesses, person branding, financial advice and industrial trade. The panel members offered their advice on these subjects stemming on questions asked by the audience. Students who attended the expo received a raffle ticket and were entered
into a drawing for a prize at the conclusion of the event. Raffle tickets were offered to students that impressed the business representatives at their individual booths. Overall, the career expo was successful as students were able to receive professional opinions and advice to help guide them to their future careers. EMILY C. HANES
SEQUOIT SNAPSHOT One of Antioch Community High School’s newest physical education programs, Advanced Fit for Life, celebrated their third annual 5k race. The class has been dedicated to improving cardiovascular and muscular endurance leading up to the April 25 race day. The group went to Hasting’s Lake Forest Preserve during first through fourth hour to complete their race. LAUREN N. BLUTHARDT Skyler Wackenhuth 9
NEWS | April 27, 2018 | The XXX Issue
FAKING
THE SECURITY IN
The extent to which people go to in order to fake their identity over social media has dangerously evolved.
DIANA ANGHEL tom tom print director // @didi_anghel
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n ongoing trend since the internet became popular, catfishing, has continued to impact teenagers’ lives. With the
growth in a variety of different social medias such as Snapchat, Twitter and Instagram, catfishing is easily accessible for anyone who is willing to do it. The comfort found in hiding behind a screen attracts many people with personal problems to release their emotions onto a screen, embracing the safety of anonymity. Based on the editorial staff at NextShark, the four most common reasons for catfishing are revenge, loneliness, curiosity and boredom. WHAT IS CATFISHING? When an individual uses social media to create a fake identity in order to get something in return out of real people, that is called catfishing. The name given to faking an identity online comes from the 2010 documentary, “Catfish.” Whether the catfish’s purpose is to pursue a fake relationship, get online company, recieve nude pictures, bully or stalk someone, using this strategy can be dangerous for both parties involved. Nowadays, one can find a person’s location with a pinch of their fingers on the Snapchat feature, SnapMap. People can track whether their friends are driving, eating or listening to music. The modernization of apps has brought upon a whole new platform when stealing someone’s identity. There are two types of catfishing: the first one involves creating a completely fake profile with a made up name and identity; the other is using an already existent person as the base of the profile, such as a classmate, a friend or a relative. “We don’t get these situations often,” officer Brussaly from the Antioch Police Department said. “The ones we do get are in the high school age bracket or middle school age bracket.” CREATING A FAKE IDENTITY This type of catfishing is more related to curious or sex-driven individuals. Oftentimes, it’s used in a way to create online relationships and make the target share personal parts of their life. Along with this comes the sending of nude pictures, a trend that seemed to have swept Generation Z. With the belief that the fake account is a real person, one starts to trust the username they’re chatting with online. With this trust comes the likeability and comfort in always having someone there to talk to, even though it’s just through social media. This leads the victim to have faith in what they’re being told and eventually give in to what is asked of them, in many cases, sending naked pictures of themselves. These situations get worse when the catfish asks to meet in real life, a way to get their target to a specific location and take advantage of them physically. A lot of times, those with low self esteem will create these fake identities simply because they are afraid to put their real selves out on the internet. Based on Brat Alan Investigations, many catfish are simply playing an emotional game hence they have low self-esteem, are lonely and have fear of revealing themselves. It’s way easier to communicate and have confidence when one’s true persona is hidden behind a screen and a made up name. According to NextShark, those catfishing are addicted to the false persona and have a fantasy in their heads about it. The internet allows a catfish to become who they’ve dreamed of being their whole life in just a couple of minutes of typing up a profile. Based on Officer Brussaly’s experiences, this kind of catfishing becomes legally involved when the sharing of nude pictures becomes prevalent. If pictures are shared by the catfish without the consent of the victim, harassment charges and in some cases, even child pornography charges could be issued to the catfish. Hosts of the show “Catfish,” which televises different scenarios of people getting catfished, believe their show is a part of the reason why this internet trend has become continuously popular. In an interview with Fox News, both hosts agreed that even if the victims have some sense that they are getting lied to, they continue to live in the fantasy because it is easier to continue a fake relationship, rather than deal with the harsh truth that they’re alone. In a technology dependent generation, such parts as online chatting can be seen as addictions that individuals cannot give up. 10
CRIME SCENE DO NOT CROSS CR
CRIME SCENE DO NOT CROSS CRIME USING ANOTHER PERSON’S IDENTITY This strategy comes from a more malevolent side of individuals, those who purposely want to hurt another’s reputation or name. These catfish take on the name of an already known person and use it to their advantage. Whether it’s the popular football “jock,” someone’s ex or friend, anonymous identities hidden behind these names use catfishing as a way for revenge or bullying. Senior Savannah Ray experienced this type of catfishing for herself. Her ex-boyfriend took on multiple names of other boys in school and used Snapchat to contact her. Along with this, he used burner phones to communicate with her parents and to create a divide between her and them. “He was mentally and emotionally abusive, so during our whole relationship he had to be in control,” Ray said. “Even after we were broken up, he had to be in control of my life.” People that need control over others’ lives use social media as a way to see what they’re up to. Sometimes, it’s purely just to get a reaction out of them. Other times, it’s to ruin someone else’s reputation. Whether it’s out of jealousy and envy or the need of control, catfish that take on others’ names do not have good intentions. In no situation does one have the right to pretend to be someone else. Why would someone pretend to be someone else that they know? Raychelle Lohmann of Psychology Today states that it’s a large part of cyberbullying. There have been many cases of catfishing that resulted with the impersonator getting charged with defamation (damaging of good reputation) and emotional distress. Cyberbullying becomes so much easier when it comes from an alleged other person; not only does this impact the victim, but it also impacts the person whose name is being used: two birds killed with one stone. More oftenly, the Antioch Police Department has seen the occurrence of malevolent catfishing in friendships rather than intimate relationships; the reason behind this being friends trying to get revenge on one another when things in the friendship go wrong. LEGAL RECOURSE IN ILLINOIS Based on the Law Office of Greenberg & Sinkovits, catfishing can have severe legal consequences in the state of Illinois. A catfishing case can qualify for fraudulent misrepresentation if it meets the following checklist: a false statement of material fact (a material fact being one which is “crucial” to an issue or event); known or believed to be false by the party making it; intent to induce the victim to act; action by the victim in justifiable reliance on the truth of the statement and damage to the victim resulting from such reliance. If the court has proof of these 5 requirements, then the catfish is most likely going to get charged with fraudulent misrepresentation and get fitting legal penalties. Legally, everything depends on the extremity of the situation. Unfortunately, there are no legal consequences for lying, or communicating with someone through a fake account. It also depends on the age of the people involved -- juvenile to juvenile catfishing isn’t going to have consequences as severe as juvenile to adult catfishing. Matters get more serious when proof of harassment or pictures that can be labeled as child pornography can be found. In that case, the appropriate criminal charges will follow (APL). 11
LIFESTYLES | April 27, 2018 | The XXX Issue
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GAS STATION Doing a quick five-minute photoshoot in a car at the gas station is a super easy way to take awesome pictures. Most gas stations are well lit and have fluorescent lights in many neon colors to fit every aesthetic.
“I like the Menards lighting section because it’s flashy and unique,” Beckman said. Menards’ entire lighting section is filled with glistening chandeliers and the paint sample section makes a bright rainbow background for photos.
WALMART Many students at Antioch use Walmart as a hangout spot.
THE OUTDOORS Even though it may seem obvious, Antioch has numerous
So, why not turn it into a photoshoot to remember all of the fun memories? Mahoney agrees that Walmart is a great place to get some photos. “My favorite location was the Walmart flower section because it’s the infamous place you always see on Twitter, and it was really cool to do it in real life,” Mahoney said. By using Walmart’s art sections, which are filled with fake flowers and ferns, one can turn a photoshoot into one identical to a photo taken in the Botanical Gardens.
locations for outdoor photoshoots. Lake County has the second largest forest preserve district in Illinois, according to www.lcfpd.org. It is easy to find a location to get out for some fresh air and get some photos in, with forest preserves being easily accessible, and the bandshell and the wetlands right near it.
MENARDS Menards is one of the best locations to use in this challenge. Beckman believes that Menards is the best place to participate in the challenge.
SAWMILL Antioch’s infamous sawmill is a match made in heaven for this challenge. This spot is a popular location for prom, graduation and wedding photos and is conveniently located right in town. The sawmill creates a rustic look for backdrops and creates a vibe that matches Antioch’s small town feel.
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LIFESTYLES | April 27, 2018 | The XXX Issue
THE COLOR OF AMERIC In this world, the rainbow no longer only spells ROYGBIV.
MOLLIE WAGNER tom tom staff // @molliewags
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CA
color T
he way of the world—a rainbow with seven colors and seven colors only. All in a prestigious order without fail, and a pigment so blinding it cannot be dimmed. Young children are taught the color pattern is ‘ROYGBIV’ and until they are standing on their own two feet to see that there is more to life than what they’re told as toddlers—colors are just colors, and people are just people. Girls are pink and boys are blue. Yet, the way of the world never has a gray era—there is no in between. It’s either coloring outside of the box with every marker, or inside the lines with a single black pen, seeing everyone for who they are or being blinded by everything that seems out of reach. Everything has a way that it is supposed to be, whether connecting dots or placing the right pieces in a puzzle, everything seems to fit a norm. If not, then it is classified as socially unacceptable and skewing from the big picture. Everyone seems to have their identity scraped across their forehead based on their physical appearance on the outside. Looking at the lining of the window, but being too timid to look in at themselves. Some may argue that, being anything or anyone not “normal” is not okay. Black and white is the acclaimed way of living a life that is destined for one. Why do people claim to choose they stand behind what is real, true or genuine, yet flock to the surface of something that is not fully in accordance to their specific person? Teenagers have been so pressured to fit into a black and white box that they aren’t allowed to become their own person—their own version of a color, preferably one that does not even exist. The stereotypical male is looked at as blue, but what is never looked upon is the different shades. People don’t bother to ask, so they don’t tell. Their gender identity is what shapes them into who they are, and the process of who they’re becoming. Imagine being born one way and aching to take off the mask of someone who is living a lie. These people live in fear of being who they really are. Junior Ajay Cheberenchick was born pink, but cracked the shell of social normality that was swirling over his head into a pool of blue. “My gender is defined by how I see myself to be,” Cheberenchick said. “It’s how I feel on the inside. Although my gender does not match the sex I was assigned at birth, I express my gender as your stereotypical male.” It is blurry for these individuals to come out of a storm that is so unforgiving. Not knowing who they are, but forced to figure it out by only following the seven paths that a rainbow gives. Being someone who is pink, it was always established for them to pine after someone who was blue.
Although as the world is changing, these concepts are becoming less rigid. We look for warmth in colors that range from yellow to red, but never look beyond this range. When it comes down to it, everything is a part of a spectrum. From what people can see though, colors are not always as they seem. Colors do not only paint a picture, but tell a story and bring feeling into the dullest parts of life. Not only are colors apparent on the inside, but also what lines our skin and covers our bones. Looking deeper into the roots of people and behind the glow of the different skin patterns and tones, they’re a road map leading lovers, family and friends to the hardest part that possibly leads to the one they are most proud of—race. For some, race and gender fall under the same minority. It is more common for people who struggle with their gender identity to say that they correlate well. For senior Marisa Harris, she believes race and gender deserve their own recognition separately. “I do not think race and gender fall under the same minority because race doesn’t define your gender and gender doesn’t define your race,” Harris said. “Gender is how you define yourself or who you choose to be. Race is something a part of your family history that comes to you.” With different races comes different backstories, traditions and cultures. As a society, it tends to not occur that these people are also a part of the spectrum. Going along with ROYGBIV, people are only taught the basics. It takes going out and meeting these people and hearing what they have to say to really understand the concept behind being a part of a minority group. Once people are familiarized with these minorities, it becomes more common and accepted among the people around them. Writer for the New York Times, Lorrie Moore, wrote a column about the young and colored boys and girls. “The political moment for feminine role models, arguably, has passed us by,” Moore wrote. “The children who are suffering in this country, who are having trouble in school, and for whom the murder and suicide rates and economic dropout rates are high, are boys -- especially boys of color, for whom the whole educational system, starting in kindergarten, often feels a form of exile, a system designed by and for white girls.” It takes knowing someone that believes in this infinite rainbow to believe in it, too. Being open to understanding and learning new artifacts makes it an easier topic to grasp. It isn’t difficult to understand the differences between two completely opposite people, but to know what’s going on in their head. Since that is not humanly possible, people must sit back and wait until given permission inside of someone’s 15
LIFESTYLES | April 27, 2018 | The XXX Issue way of life. Until then, listening to how someone got where they are and where they have been is the first step in realizing how we are alike and different. These stereotypes placed on the shoulders of someone who is thirteen or thirty two, shape who they are and where they are going. “The color of my stereotype has made me who I am because it shows what I’ve gone through to get to where I am,” Cheberenchick said. “When I look at the colors on a trans flag, I often relate the pink to being who I was perceived to be. The white stripe in the middle expresses the line that society has drawn separating the “boys” from the “girls” and that line, as a trans person, symbolizes the cross that we made to become the person we’re meant to be.” Although most of their stories are never told, they still shine their rainbow on the people around them regardless of what society or their unsupportive peers has to say. In some cases though, society can help instead of hinder their view of themselves. “In today’s society, I think the role my race plays has helped,” Harris said. “Everyone that I know accepts me for who I am, not what race or gender I identify as. I believe that it is important to see people not just on the outside but most importantly on the inside. I think it’s cool to be able to teach and show my friends the cultures and things I have learned from being Mexican.” The different races and genders that hold such powerful backgrounds and have experienced such a hard patch in their lives, still hold true to where they came from and are showing others their own way of the world. Believe not only in a rainbow of seven, but a rainbow of seven hundred. Colors will shine their light on the small towns that need the extra fog cleared. The way of the world is changing and it is difficult for some people to comprehend. Slowly but surely, black and white will only become shadows. Colors are infinite, gender and race are infinite, and people are infinite. Believe in the rainbow with colors that do not exist.
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silence
THE SOUNDS OF SILENCE
Instead of a traditional interview, the invisibility of race and gender emerged in the form of observation and vignettes.
BRANDEN W. GALLIMORE print director // @brandengal
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LETTING GO t’s one of those things that we all know is coming. One hundred and ten percent it is a part of life, yet we ignore it until our time comes. We hate to think about it, but it’s always in the back of our minds; sometimes taking them over entirely. We pray for a savior because we know we can’t save ourselves or our loved ones. This thing eats people up; it eats them up mentally, emotionally, physically and literally. Seeing those at their time, on their deathbed, doesn’t seems real. They are the ones we learn from, look up to and follow. I look at him now; looking down over him as he’s hardly breathing—the breaths both shallow and sore. One issue after another I ask, “how’s he doing?” All I ever hear back is there’s something else wrong--something else taking the soul out of the one that was always there for you. The scariest part is not knowing that when they’re gone if they’ll still be there for you, or if they’re just gone. Forever. Eighty-nine years here, infinity gone. You think: where’s our savior? He’s never shown his face. We’ve never heard his voice, only stories from those who don’t know for sure if what they’re saying is true; they’re just hoping it’s true. I’ll someday find the answer to this mystery, but for now I watch him lying in that cold, white hospital bed gasping for every last breath. I look at every wrinkle and movement. The beeps of his heart rate monitor ring in my ears. How can I not stare at the one who formed me and think that, in this condition, he’s ever going to be here forever. Quote from him… maybe advice that is emblazoned in your mind. Someday, sooner or later, I’ll be in that same exact spot, with those people I taught
looking over me, wondering the same thing I once did, “is it really all over for him? Or will I someday get to see him again?” Someday, hopefully a long, long time from now, I’ll find out, but the hardest part is my real life savior is uncovering this mystery for himself right before my eyes. I’m not ready to go yet. HEARING VOICES A big crowd surrounded by your friends—this situation, at least in a high schooler’s mind, can generally be connected with concerts or parades; however, not in this case. Enough is enough Guns, mass murders—two ideas usually associated with battles or wars, but not in this case either. Enough is enough “I am usually the type to keep my views to myself and stay away from large crowds that protest,” but things crossed the line and enough was enough. This time, as the frigid cold snowed over the eyes and hearts, shooting chills down the spine, chattering teeth and wrinkling toes; you could see the sadness in everyone’s eyes, and you could feel the power in the silence. “Enough is enough,” students said as each minute of the 17 passed. Their voices emerged amidst the silence that was beyond expected, necessary and desired. Besides the little murmurs of a few students, there was never a point in time where so many teenagers, so many high school students, were so silent. But, this silence was louder than anything I’ve ever heard before in my life; ironic, right? Wrong. High school students—with more power than anyone in the world—were outside, early in the morning, freezing, sending their love and fighting for what they believe in. Hopefully others will listen. Hopefully others will see, That enough is enough.
“I like my idea better, and I think we should do things the way I want,” is exactly what this professional power talker would say. It’s the type of voice that rings your eardrums as each and every word vibrates through. The type that sends chills down your spine as if you were stranded in Antarctica, alone, without shelter having to deal with the chill of the powerful winds and the powerful freeze. No, this powerful voice is not a result of screaming; rather it is from the power in that voice. And the will to possess that power and put it into action.
Jillian Everett For them, it may be. For her, she led the charge. For me, it was a journey that was only just beginning. For those lost, this movement became a nation of phoenixes rising from the ashes of hatred and hell. CHANGE I hadn’t seen most of my family in years. “You’ve grown up so much,” my aunt said to me when she first saw me. I have a pretty big sized family, all of which are distributed across the country, but still at the very least family. And usually, not all the time, but usually, family time is all about who inherits the money and who gets the property; this time things were different. Smiles, laughs, jokes and messing around roasts; it was a great time for everyone to be connected. But, in order to be connected with my family, there was a need for tragedy. I was finally able to join in on the adult conversations rather than be the little kid that had to see alone, zoning in on the TV. And I realized one thing: nothing ever really changes. As life goes on, people stay the same. People act the same. People talk the same. People never change. They say change is good, but maybe we don’t like change. Maybe I still laugh at my uncles same old jokes. Maybe I still enjoy the constant questions about school. Maybe I still enjoy being the youngest one, getting the most attention. Maybe I never wanted anything to change. POWER Isn’t it interesting seeing people that have power control other people just by words? I don’t mean the type of power that a bodybuilder lifts with, or the type that a boxer uses to pummel opponents; I mean a much more simple, less physical kind of power. The power that everyone knows about. The power that can be heard across the world. The power that anyone can control at any given moment.
LOVE I can feel my palms sweat. I can hear my voice crack. I can see myself shake. I think I’m in love. Or am I? I really don’t know how I’m supposed to feel. I’ve seen movies and TV shows of lovers, who are always smiling until their cheeks get stuck, or blush so hard that they turn bright red, almost like a tomato. Or maybe it’s all a lie. Maybe I’m not supposed to feel my heart happily and nervously pump through my chest. Maybe I’m not supposed to laugh uncontrollably, shedding tears of laughter that drip down my cheek in a chilling, yet enlightening matter. Maybe it was just those movies and TV shows educating me on a fairy tale matter, that in reality, will never exist. The hardest part won’t be having the feeling of my palms sweat. It definitely won’t be hearing my voice crack. Or seeing myself shake. But the hardest part will be trying to understand that I had this image in my head, perfectly clear and non-pixelated, that I will someday find a fairytale with happiness and love, with laughs and smiles, with accomplishment and content, and that I’ve wasted all my time trying to reach a non-existent star in a galaxy far, far away. EXPERIENCE “Learn from my mistakes.” “I’ve done that before; it doesn’t work out well.” “Just ask me. If you can think of it, I’ve probably done it. I can help.” I constantly hear these phrases from people older than me, and it makes me wonder: will I say the same things when I’m older? I hope not. Yes, everyone makes mistakes, but I hate to see those mistakes burn people up like an internal wildfire. And if I can think of it, someone’s already done it, so how can I make the same mistake as them? You live and you learn. Why can’t you live and then learn? Sounds like a plan to me. But yet there’s another impossible plan right there, and therefore every mistake, every regretful decision, and all of those poor judgments will always haunt me. “Short memory.” “Forget about it.” “Don’t worry.” Every phrase, sentence, opinion or tip there to help me only digs me deeper into the hole that nothing,nothing ever changes.
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ON THE FIELD | September 29, 2017 | The Cardinal Issue LIFESTYLES | April 27, 2018 | The XXX Issue
Ella Maggio 18
or a week f a new tom tom tradition.
I WENT TO AUSTRALIA. The Sequoit International Travel group took off on a new adventure to Australia and New Zealand for the 2018 trip. ELLA M. MAGGIO tom tom staff // @ellamaggio33
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ver spring break, 42 traveling Sequoits (36 students and six chaperons) boarded eight flights, stayed at four hotels, visited two countries and made memories in a span of 10 days. To begin their journey, the trip started with a delayed flight from O’Hare to San Francisco airport. Following the four hour flight, the students embarked on a 13 hour flight from San Francisco to Auckland. After all the flying, there was a three and a half hour drive to Rotorua, New Zealand. While the students were there, they witnessed the active geysers in Whakarewarewa Thermal Village. Here, they learned the various uses of the geysers for the native people. The geysers are used for cooking and bathing because they are naturally warm. It saves the local people in the village money by using the natural resources available to them. “I thought it was a great educational tour to be able to see how native people live,” senior Sally Bessette said. “While we were there, a family was using one of geysers to cook their chicken and potatoes.” Following a day of touring geysers, the group took a ride on a gondola at Skyline Park. At the top of the mountain, there were many establishments available to dine at to build energy for the rest of the day. Following lunch, the students were able to travel down the mountain on a luge (a bumper car down the mountain). However, the first adrenaline rush for the group was at Ogo. Students rolled, in a bubble-ball half-filled with water, down a 300 meter mountain. The group also had the opportunity to view a Kiwi exhibit, New Zealand’s national bird. While in New Zealand, additional excursions included a duck tour, the world famous Hobbiton set and Hell’s Gate—a mud bath spa with a sulfur pool. To end their visit in New Zealand, the group witnessed a sheep shearing show. Here, they got to see the various sheep that thrive in New Zealand. Some students even got to milk a cow and feed a goat. The show ended with one of the herding dogs running on top of the sheep. The conclusion of the six days led to a four hour flight to Sydney. While in Sydney, students were able to tour the Sydney Opera House. While they were there, they learned that it is one of the Seven Wonders of the World.
“It [The Sydney Opera House] was really cool [because] it was three different buildings and had multiple different rooms within them so that multiple performances could happen at the same time,” senior Madison Dvoratchek said. While in Sydney, students rode in a ferry boat tour around the harbor, surfed at Bondi Beach and learned about native animals at the Featherdale Wildlife Park. Bondi Beach had crystal clear water, shops lining the street, positive and motivational graffiti on the walls surrounding it and surf lessons. Here, the students had two options: learn how to surf or go on a hike with social studies teacher Stephen Rose and consumer education teacher Donna Corcoran. Bondi was an all around memorable experience for many students and chaperones. Featherdale Wildlife Park provided students with the option to feed and pet kangaroos. Students could pay a small fee to buy kangaroo food to hand-feed the kangaroos. The kangaroos were very friendly and filled many students with smiles. After a fulfilling coastal day, they flew from Sydney to Cairns, Australia. As the trip continued along the equator, the locations got warmer. Here, the group swam in one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World: the Great Barrier Reef. “I really enjoyed being able to go snorkeling and do what we wanted and have a lot of activity options,” Dvoratchek said. “Like snorkeling, the glass bottom boat, scuba diving, the underwater helmet and the guided tours. The tour with the Marine Biologist was really fun because we were able to hold two different types of sea cucumbers.” The hour long boat ride to the Great Barrier Reef left students in anticipation. The natural scenery along the reef included the shallow clearwater, the eqotic fish and warm weather. The next day, some of the group traveled to Kuranda where they got to learn how to throw boomerangs. After that, they went on a gondola through the mountains and rainforest and saw the most beautiful waterfall. The trip was getting wrapped up as they started their journey home. Students had to wake up at 3:00 am Cairns time to drive to the airport. From Cairns they flew to Brisbane, to Auckland, to LA, and lastly to O’Hare. The group accomplished 34 hours of traveling in one day. Overall, this trip was unforgettable. Students got to see the Sydney Opera House, swim in the Great Barrier Reef, surf at Bondi Beach and feed kangaroos. The impact of the activities that the students experienced will be forever lasting. As the group said “Kia Ora” down under, they created memories that will last a lifetime.
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LIFESTYLES | April 27, 2018 | The XXX Issue
THE CAKERY FULL OF LOVE IS NOW OPEN IN ANTIOCH
Kayla Grenke
Lovin Oven Cakery’s expansion adds a third store; however, this location is also serving as a distribution center for the Libertyville and Round Lake locations. The Antioch location is already being frequented by community members and visitors, as well as members of the Antioch Community High School who find Lovin Oven their work home.
There is a new chance to get sweet treats close to home. KAYLA E. GRENKE tom tom staff // @kayla_bala1314
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he Lovin Oven Cakery, widely known for its outstanding pastries and cakes, opened a new location in downtown Antioch. Located at 455 Lake St. Antioch, Ill., the cakery owned by Ken and Betty Slove opened its newest location in January of 2018. The cakery franchise was founded in 1930, by John Slove, originally named Slove Bakery, on Diversey Avenue in Chicago, Illinois. The new cakery fills the 43,000 square foot building that used to be home to Hannah’s Home Accents, making it the largest of the three Lovin Oven Cakery locations with the original cakery only being 1,200 square feet. Nayla Loos, the granddaughter of Ken and Betty, believes the new Antioch location is a big step for the business. “The Antioch location will expand the business dramatically,” Loos said. “It will provide more opportunities for the business to thrive.” It features cafe seating for 100 people, two party and meeting rooms along with a bridal suite for previewing wedding cakes and products. Sophomore Kara Brooks is an employee that has been working at the cakery for five months. “I worked at the Round Lake location for about a month and a half 20
and when the Antioch location opened, I started working there,” Brooks said. “I would describe the atmosphere as breathtaking. The new Antioch location is so much bigger than the other two locations. There is free WiFi available, everyone is friendly and you’re surrounded by amazing snacks.” The cakery has a wide variety of different treats such as pastries, cakes, breads, cupcakes and small lunch foods. “I wouldn’t compare the sweets at Lovin Oven to any other place because I’ve never had sweets that taste as good and fresh as the ones at Lovin Oven,” Brooks said. The cakery caters to many people with new treats and designs, as well as providing an open family friendly atmosphere. Many people regularly go there for breakfast before school or work, or during their lunch breaks. “I think it is worth it to at least visit the cakery and try something; everyone I have met while working there has a special favorite product,” Brooks said. ”There’s always something new, crazy, cool and totally customized by the customer being made.” Every season and holiday, there are always new cupcakes and cake designs. Some customer favorites include lamb cakes for Easter and kings cake for Mardi Gras. There is always at least one customer in the store. On the weekends, it is very crowded and busy all day long. Kayla Grenke With the new addition of The Lovin Oven cakery to Antioch, it brings the opportunity for people not only to support a local business, but to relax and have family time while enjoying a sweet treat.
HUJI: THE NEW APP
This mobile Fujifilm spin off is topping the charts and landing on the phones of ACHS students.
SKYLER R. WACKENHUTH tom tom staff // @skylerrose_
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ecades ago, filters were paper linings used to strain coffee, but in more recent times, filters are more commonly known as a digital effect used to add interest to photos. There are thousands of photo editing applications and softwares on the web today, and a free photo editing app dubbed ‘HUJI’ blew up big time for Instagram users. HUJI is a retro themed app, with the home screen that looks similar to a disposable Fujifilm camera. Photos are taken within
the image puts a new effect on the photo. This app is user-friendly and very simple to use. It seems like this app is perfect, but not every app is perfect. “It does cost money [In Added Purchases], but it’s really not that expensive,” Phillips said. “A lot of other people use it, so I feel like no one is going to use it anymore.” Trends with photo editing apps tend to die sooner rather than later, but this app is definitely something to try out. Some
IT GIVES A COOL LOOK TO YOUR PHOTOS.
the app, but with purchases, students believe this app is photos from the device can be becoming mainstream, and loaded in. The app adds ranoverused. domized light effects and a date “I think the app is slightly to the photo. over used,” junior Kameron The app has some customJones said. “I don’t think the izations: the choice to turn on/ trend will stick around because off the light effects, the choice of how basic it is.” to choose between the date Photos using this app are from the photo and a date from flooding social media, and the 80-90’s or to turn it off all although it is gaining popularity, together. The app even has a some people don’t like using the JUNIOR // RACHEL PHILLIPS classic viewfinder, which can be app because other people do, clicked on to make it easier to making it seem as overused. see the photo and apply more On the iTunes Photo and Video basic settings. Junior Rachel Phillips shares her chart, this app is at #8, which means it is on the insight on the app. rise. This app is unique from its features to the way “I really like HUJI because it gives off a retro it is presented, and the retro style is appealing to vibe,” Phillips said. “The flash gives an original look many people. to the photos.” “I would recommend it to other people beEach photo is not like the last, and if the effect cause it gives a cool look to your photos and a on the photo isn’t appealing to the eye, reloading unique touch to your Instagram,” Phillips said.
Skylar Wackenhuth 21
LIFESTYLES | April 27, 2018 | The XXX Issue
TRENDY HAIRSTYLES TO TRY FOR PROM
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FOR SHORT HAIR, I’VE SEEN MORE HALF UPDOS. COSMOTOLOGY STUDENT // ANNA HILL
With the year’s final dance a short time away, students are looking toward what’s on their heads as much as their bodies. JESSICA L. LAMBERTY senior editor // thejesseffect13
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wo seniors in the Cosmetology Technol-
ogy Campus program, Ashley Costanza and Anna Hill, enlighten students on the newest, trendiest hairstyles to try for prom this spring. This past year, updos have been the go-to for special occasions, but this can be tricky for people with shorter hair. “For shorter hair, I’ve seen more half updos, because that’s a lot easier to do on short hair,” Hill said. Another option for updos with short hair is getting extensions; however, these can be tricky to place in a manner which the clip will not be seen and can also be very expensive. “You have to be careful with updos and extensions because depending on the updo, the tracts might show,” Hill said. “It also depends on how well they’re done, but those ones are going to be a lot more expensive and I know a lot of high school students couldn’t afford it.” Braids are also in; they look classy by themselves or as an addition to another style. Costanza recommends curling the hair and throwing in a little braid to compliment the hair style. This hairdo works well with short hair since 22
it does not require extreme length. Dutch braids are more popular than french braids and pop more in updos since they sit on top of the hair instead of pulling strands from under. “If you can’t go with the plain french twist, or if you want a little more, dutch braids are something new,” Hill said. If doing hair at home without products, ask a friend to borrow some or visit the beauty supply store. Although Walmart is cheaper, the products do not last as long as more expensive ones. Curls can also be done with a straightener, which creates softer, ribbon-like curls. “I’ve got shorter hair so I think that sometimes, using a flat iron is a little easier,” Hill said. “But I also use a curling wand a lot just because it’s easy and fast.” When getting hair done professionally, it is important to schedule the appointment in advance. “You have no idea how long it’s going to take,” Costanza said. “You also have your consultation that you have to worry about, with what you want to do with your hair and what kind of look and style you want, and on top of that, you have to look at all of the other stuff you have to do throughout the day when you go to prom.” It is important to consider how busy the salons will be that day as well, so leave plenty of time for delays. It is also important to get hair done as close to the actual dance time as possible, because curls and other styles will sag and likely get
Kayla Grenke
messed up throughout the day. Remember to bring a purse-sized can of hairspray along as well. “If you’re doing an updo, as long as you pin it in a way that’s going to keep it secure all night, then you can get it done at any time [if] you’re not too rough with your hair,” Hill said. When scheduling at a salon, ask about prices, ask about how long it will take, and make sure they think that they can do it with a specific length and texture of hair. If planning to color the hair, then do so in advance because vibrant colors wash out quickly and often leak onto clothes. Another thing to be worried about when getting hair done too close to prom is that the dye stains skin. There are also a lot of colors that bleed out if they encounter sweat. Depending on how often the hair gets washed, consider at least one wash at home after getting it done at the salon, just to make sure that there is no extra dye that is going to stain. One should use heat protectant spray, especially if their hair requires a higher heat setting to curl. The heat from the iron is going to evaporate the protectant before it evaporates the natural oils and moisture from the hair. “You don’t want to [use] coconut oil because all that does is make your hair shiny,” Costanza said. Coconut oil doesn’t penetrate the cuticle of the hair, it just sits on the outside layer and makes the hair look soft. Find a hairstyle that best fits the dress and personality of its model and use resources like YouTube to find tutorials.
WORKING DURING THE BREAK With summer break approaching, students figure out how to fill their free time. SIERRA M. WARD tom tom Staff//@sierra_ward5
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imilar to most people, many high school students need or want money. For various reasons, money is a necessity, but it can also just be something that people want. For some, parents provide this money, but for others a job is an additional responsibility in their schedule. High schoolers already have a lot on their plate with academic, athletic, social and extracurricular responsibilities. Therefore, some students can not always add a job to their to-do list during the school year. Those who can not earn extra cash, in addition to the stress of school and life, have to do it at other times. For example, summer break is a great time to work because of all the excess time student have due to the fact that they are no longer in school or school-related extracurricular activities. With one months left in the 2017-2018 school
year, the search for employment has begun for many people. Even though it seems somewhat far in the future, some people have already applied and started working towards getting a job. The application and interviewing process can seem daunting, and for some it is. A few begin the job hunt as early as the beginning of the year. Sophomore Allison Beckman’s application process to be a lifeguard and swim instructor started in January and is still continuing. “I had to take a week-long CPR and lifeguard training class that included various tests, and for the swim instructor job I’ll have to take an online course,” Beckman said. “The application [process] was extremely long and tiring because it was done online and I needed referrals, my personal information, along with tons of other forms to be filled out. It was a lot of emailing back and forth until I had the job secured.” Beckman is one of many who has to go through this procedure and ones similar to it. However, not all employment opportunities require as many tasks to be completed before working is permitted. Therefore, those still looking for work should not be frightened by the unknown
ahead. Junior Joseph Whittall is hoping to find a job this summer, but has not yet started to apply. “I want either a job at the movie theater or Lovin Oven,” Whittall said. “I decided I wanted a job when my mom told me I needed to get one; I need money.” Some students do not voluntarily work. Whether they have to because of financial issues at home, a need to get out of the house or any other reason, it is possible a parent made the decision for them. Either way, no matter whose choice it is, working can be a great lesson for everyone. The responsibility of working, managing money and time and learning the skills of a job one may work at is a beneficial skill for anyone to have. Summer is approaching quicker than one may realize and it is important to plan ahead if one wants to earn a wage, especially if the person has somewhere specific in mind. Working in high school can be an experience that teaches one lessons they can use for the rest of his or her life. Although working may not be the ideal way to spend summer vacation, it will help improve skills in numerous fields.
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LIFESTYLES | April 27, 2018 | The XXX Issue
MAN DOWN ON HOLLYWOOD BLVD. Living in a world where equal opportunity isn’t a possibilty. GIANNA M. CHIAPPETTA team leader // @gigic29
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magine a world where people aren’t seen for their race, but rather for their talent; where the color of one’s skin doesn’t determine the amount of opportunities they are given. This world is fiction and not the one lived in by today’s people. In the film industry, people of color have all odds against them when it comes to getting a job. The color of their skin, a choice no one has control over, is often the thing that separates them from landing a role in a movie; a 2016 University of Illinois study showed
Gianna Chiappetta For senior De’Andre Burns recently starred as the lead in the spring musical, “The Addams Family.” In the show Burns played Gomex Addams, who is traditionally a Latino character. He believes that his role should not have had anything to do with race, but instead on the quality of his character, acting and singing.
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only 28.3 percent of people who have speaking parts in movies are of a race other than white. A trend in the film industry is that African American actors can be in movies, but if the opportunity is there, they will be the first to die; an example of this is from “X-Men: First Class” when Darwin is the first to die. This is a backwards idea of saying African Americans have equal rights under the law to be in a film, but still have unequal screen time. “I think African Americans can play huge roles and deserve the same amount of recognition as all other races,” junior Carley Mager said. “The unfortunate truth is that people in our society still have this prejudice about the minorities without even knowing it.” I️t wasn’t until 1939 when the first African American, Hattie McDaniel, won an Oscar for best supporting actress in “Gone With The Wind.” This film was the first to feature actors of color who were recognized and honored for their achievements. “I️ don’t think it really matters if the actor is African American or any race,” junior Erik Adams said. “I️ think the actor just needs to be fit for the role in the movie.” Some people watch movies for enjoyment. The race of an actor doesn’t change their opinion on whether or not to watch a movie. “What makes a movie good to me is if it impacts my emotions in a good way,” senior Za’Tozia Duffie said. “Movies that make me think a little deeper about myself and the world are also my favorite.” In today’s society, there are movies with a full cast of people of color, but they are not as popular in the box office as other movies with a predominantly white cast. Recently the tables have recently turned with Marvel’s “Black Panther.” The movie skyrocketed bringing in tons of movie lovers and even those who do not normally watch superhero movies came to witness the first ever African American hero. “The movie ‘Black Panther’ was glorified by everyone who saw it,” Duffie said. “That’s because it meant so much to the black community.” While some people are still stuck in the 1960s, the world of film has grown tremendously. When it comes to welcoming actors from different types of backgrounds, there are still some situations where African Americans don’t have equality; but every day there is added hope into building a world of equal opportunity for everyone.
Goals can be hard to achieve, but the end result after the accomplishment can have lasting effects. EMILY A. HIGGINS tom tom staff // @emily_higgins81
Emily Higgins
STEPS TO SUCCESS
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oal: the object of a person’s ambition or effort, an aim or desired result. The word itself does not seem like a big deal, but the actions of achieving a desired goal means so much more. The process of setting goals allows students to choose what they want to achieve. By knowing what they want, students know what they have to concentrate on and improve. Goal setting can give students focus, help plan their future or provide motivation. Having different goals, whether they be personal or related to the future, allows students to take pride in accomplishing the goals originally created. By using past experiences and goal-creating methods, one can see how they create either a clear moving progress or long and drawn out one.
CREATES ACCOUNTABILITY Having goals holds one accountable, not only to others, but to themselves. Rather than just talk, one also must stick to what was said. This accountability can be personal or public, depending on the type of goal and standards given. No one has to know the objective, but it can sometimes help keep the motivation going. By setting specific targets, one can easily see if the right path is being taken—and if not, they can change the process. “It feels really good to accomplish anything, but accomplishing a goal feels different,” sophomore Matthew Bohn said.
PROVIDES MOTIVATION Goals help motivate and give something to strive for. This can allow one to be powerful if change is needed within one’s daily lifestyle. Goals help redirect focus away from negativity, and allow one to reconnect with morals and desires; but, it is important to keep in mind that aspirations are designed to have a desired result— and that may take some time. Many people have goals that last long term, and others are short-term. Both are beneficial, depending on one’s lifestyle. “Weekly goals sometimes get too routine and can be finished right away,” Bohn said. “Long term goals take too long to finish, and sometimes you lose interest. Both goals keep a balance. It provides a lot of motivation to keep that balance.”
IMPROVES LIFESTYLE Goals are tools to focus energy in positive directions. They do not have to be set in stone and can be changed based on priorities, as well as new ideas being added and others being dropped. All goals are created twice: first in the mind, then in the physical world. Like building blocks, they branch off of each other. Once a goal is set, the accountability to start and the desire to finish is constructed. Motivation then occurs throughout the time of completion, striving to the objective. The will to succeed and improve then starts another cycle, another goal. Without goals, the will to succeed is absent, and without success, there is no future.
Above all, goals focus on the inner self. Know that what gets measured gets improved. For the easiest improvement, focus on the things that can change and be realistic as to what change is wanted. “If you set the bar high, it’s hard to achieve,” sophomore Lily Highley said. “Keeping realistic goals makes it worth it.” It is not possible to make every single desired change, and if the intended outcomes are not realistic, the aspiration to achieve all of the changes are doing more harm than good. Whatever it is, that goal should result in overall happiness. Evaluate the changes, plan accordingly and stick to the goal until it is met. 25
FEATURES | April 27, 2018 | The XXX Issue
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Everybody loves the cool parents, and they all wished that they were theirs, but what if cool parents aren’t really the parents people should want after all? MCKENNA R. KALISZ print director // @mac_kalisz
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rowing up, everyone wants to have the cool parents who let their kids go out all night, go to parties, have all their friends over and be able to talk about anything and everything without getting in
trouble. ‘I’d rather you do it here than somewhere else,’ a phrase that seems to be more and more common nowadays in households everywhere. In this day and age, it’s common for kids to start drinking and doing drugs in high school because society has made it a rite of passage that everyone needs to experience during this time, and some parents don’t seem to try and stop them. Not only is it common for these things to be allowed today, but the type of parents encouraging it has become increasingly more and more popular. Some teenagers even vow that when they have children they will be these parents—the ones that allow them to go out, party, drink, smoke and talk to their kids without judging or punishing them. However, not every teenager feels the frustration of having to follow every rule. On any given day, one can easily walk through a high school and find a handful of students that consider their parents as ‘goals’—ones who have the freedom to do what they want, whenever they want. “My parents are what most people consider as goals,” Jones said. “They let me do what I want but they also give me restrictions.” Being the ‘cool’ parent who is always there to listen and won’t punish their child for their actions may seem great, but where is the line of being a friend or stepping up and actually parenting drawn? For some parents, it’s harder to distinguish where this line should be, or if there even is a line after all. On the other hand, some parents have a totally different viewpoint of how parenting should be done.
According to the Kidsafe Foundation, “our job as parents is to prepare our children for life; to be able to talk with our children about real issues, with the intention of teaching them life skills so they, and we, will be confident for when they go out on their own, they will be able to make the safest and smartest choices. Friends do not have this type of relationship, active parents do.” A friend is someone who doesn’t judge or comment on another’s actions, but that’s not what a parent is supposed to be like. Parents should be there to listen but also discipline their child. KidSafe Foundation stated, “I believe that a parent is there to protect, guide, and teach. They should model good decision making, model kind behavior, keep the family safe, and provide the consistency in a child’s life so they can feel safe and comfortable and best able to handle life’s challenges along the way.” Parenting doesn’t necessarily force one out of being bestfriends with their child, it’s all about the balance and boundaries that are set within the relationship. Having an honest and open relationship doesn’t mean allowing children to smoke and drink without repercussions, even though the rules may not stop them; it means having rules and boundaries to potentially stop them. “I would describe [my parents] style as somewhat strict,” junior Annie Freeman said. “I have a curfew, they don’t usually let me hang out with my friends on weekdays and sometimes they can be strict when it comes to having sleep overs, but they’re rules aren’t that overbearing.” Being a parent can be a full time job. There isn’t guidelines to show how one is supposed to be a parent and succeed. Some choose the strict route and have rules while others are more lenient and go with the flow. There is no right or wrong way of raising a child as long as the result is a well rounded human being.
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FEATURES | April 27, 2018 | The XXX Issue
It’s easily accessible. It’s available with a click. Sometimes we love something more than what’s healthy for us to love. For some, pornography might just be that “something,” and that “something” might just be a little unhealthy. BRANDEN W. GALLIMORE print director // @brandengal
PLEASURE AMUSEMENT SATISFACTION THRILL
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ll of these words directly correlate with what humans seek—pleasure out of something easily obtainable. Yes, satisfaction and thrill may be difficult to find, but with the improvements in technology and the power of the internet, finding these pleasures is easier than ever imagined. Pornography has taken the world by storm with a net worth that’s worth about $97 billion, according to Medium.com. Believe it or not, Medium also stated that the porn industry makes more money than Major League Baseball, the National Football League and the National Basketball Association combined. Even more staggering, porn sites get more viewers per month than Amazon, Netflix and Twitter combined. Along with this popularity comes big paydays, but only for those pornography stars that make it big time. Women are the big attraction in this business for the most part due to the fact that, according to CNBC, most of the viewers are male. These women can make upwards of $1,000 per performance, according to CNBC. Top tier performers can make between $1,500 and $2,000 each time on set. On the other hand, those performers that don’t make it on the big stage end up working for lower wages to make a buck. Now, where does all of this money come 28
from? Advertisements are a larger portion of the business, but the greatest buyers for these pictures and videos are the viewers themselves. The issues arising from this more recent “epidemic” are really catching the eye of the public, with studies showing that porn observation can rewrite the brain, alter its structure and functions, and can cause addictive behavior to occur, according to MedicalDaily.com. In 2014, Cambridge University did a study found that the ventral striatum of the brain lit up when an alcoholic saw an image of an alcoholic beverage. They did the same exact study on a porn addict as they viewed pornography, and they found the same activity in the brain. The interesting part was that the porn addict wanted the pornography more, but didn’t enjoy it more; rather they relied on having more and more pornography at their fingertips. The three regions of the brain that are activated when a drug addict sees the drug of their choice are the exact same three regions of the brain that go through a major activity change when a porn addict sees pornography, making pornography seem more like a drug rather than an entertainment source. Just like the drama/romance movie “Don Jon,” where the main character gets so
addicted to pornography that he can no longer get aroused by women in real life, only by pornography; In a Time Magazine story, Porn and the Threat to Virility, by Belinda Luscombe, Luscombe conducted an interview with a man that revealed his porn addiction and how it affected his life. He revealed how no matter what woman he was with, he could never become aroused. The only way he was able to become aroused was to the sight of pornography—directly correlating with the pornography addiction others studies have referenced. Yet, is this addiction something that is translated to the high school audience, or are high schoolers exempt as they are “too young” to legally view this content? In a survey of 128 students at Antioch Community High School, 81.6 percent answered that a friend introduced them to pornography, and a little over 50 percent were introduced to pornography from ages 10 to 13 years old. According to Luscombe, these stats would be concerning because viewing pornography at that early of an age can more often lead to porn-induced erectile dysfunction, or a PIED for short. A PIED is the sabotage of sexual responses due to the comfort and frequency that comes with the use of pornography at such a young age. Basically, the brain is so used to being aroused by viewing pornography that it’s all the brain knows, and all it wants to know. The ability for younger generations to reach content of this magnitude has become as easy as the touch of a screen, making a real porn addiction
that much easier to obtain. For the students who took the same survey, this frequency again would cause concern. From the survey, while 41 students said they never actually viewed pornography after their initial exposure, 32 of which were female, 38 of the respondents are visiting pornographic sites and viewing pornographic materials at least once a week. Of those 38, all of them identified as males. And of those 38, 26 of them are consuming pornographic materials at least once a day, if not multiple times a day. As time has gone on, and as technology has evolved, pornography is a lot simpler for anyone to access at any time for as much time as one would want. From the internet to social media, searching one key word can bring anyone to thousands of pornographic photos and videos. On the contrary, rather than the internet and social media, pornography can also be found in movies, magazines, video games, rap videos and more. In the same survey, 75 percent of the respondents said they have viewed pornography on the internet, but it didn’t stop there. Forty-six percent responded that they have seen porn in movies, and another 26 percent said they’ve viewed porn in rap videos, making pornography more common than most people might think. Along with the great frequency of pornography in today’s society comes a common trend in porn addiction among its viewers. According to the same studies noted in this story, porn addiction is not uncommon, and is not impossible to fix. And, porn addiction isn’t
a simple problem, especially if one’s access continues to get younger and the frequency of viewing gets higher, the addiction will continue to spread wider. In an article on Yourbrainonporn.com, in order to fix a PIED, or a porn addiction, a process called “Rebooting” is a great option. Rebooting is basically a process by which an addict cuts off the use of pornography and masturbation in order to cleanse oneself and reset the brain and body to normal. Rebooting is not an impossible process, but may not be an easy one by any means. The control to steer away from something that can be so pleasurable to someone can be a difficult task for some and near medically impossible for others; however, there is a light at the end of the tunnel. With the world moving faster than ever with technology comes even more ways for people to abuse it. The porn business is one of the largest in the world with no signs of slowing down, and that’s because of the exact reason that it was created for—to bring pleasure and satisfaction to its viewers. But, as the porn world grows more and more overt time, so does the amount of people that are addicted to its taboo content they can’t find anywhere else. Everybody seeks pleasure. Everybody seeks amusement. Everybody seeks satisfaction. Everybody seeks thrill. Although pornography can satisfy all of these needs, the addictive finish is not one that viewers would hope to last a lifetime. 29
FEATURES | April 27, 2018 | The XXX Issue
The most dreaded conversation between a kid and their parent, or among a classroom full of students, is probably one of the most important ones to have: the one about the birds and the bees. MOLLIE T. WAGNER tom tom staff // @molliewagner_
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onsent: permission for something to happen or agreement to do something. The bees actually sting, the birds don’t chirp—they scream. Never imprinting in young heads that stop really means stop, panicking when knees are bruised and heads are pushed further and further. What lectures are flowing through the minds of naive, impressionable teens then? Not knowing whose blue curtains hang from unfamiliar windows when their eyes open after going out on what was a Friday night with the girls—now a Saturday of throwing up and not knowing why. Feeling itchy all over. Begging for teachers to give more answers, rather than just the simple, “no means no.” “I was taught that sex was between a man and a woman,” junior Marissa Milone said. “We briefly discussed learning about pregnancy—but specifically how to prevent pregnancy. I wanted to know more about sex because I was interested in it, but my teachers were too uncomfortable to talk about it.” For teenagers, not only are they taught that sex is wrong and should be avoided—it’s what they are not taught. Teachers dim the spotlight of sex when it comes to LGBT+ youth and their questions on sex. As people age, they dwell on teenagers always going to their phones or the internet for everything, when really, it has been a great tool for helping younger people feel more comfortable. “I had to find everything out about non heteronormative relationships and sex through the internet and social media,” sophomore Brandon Reynolds said. “Us teenagers— we learn everything from the internet. I think it had an impact because not everyone likes to openly talk about sex, or takes it too far. Sometimes people say a little bit too much.”
“I had to learn through the internet by itself,” Milone said. “I think that being able to understand all of the angles outside of straight sex will not only keep children safer, but there will be an increase in public knowledge and citizens will be more understanding of something that they’re not particularly a part of.” Other pure intentions turn into dirty secrets— what is kept hidden in the cracks of teaching sex education. Whether this be with a parent or a teacher, sex education is not expressed or discussed in the amount of time depth it needs to be. Parents usually leave this job up to the teacher. As the sexual education curriculum is polished and changing with each lesson, parents don’t really have a starting point or initial target when bringing up this stomach twisting topic. The health teachers will tell them everything they need to know, right? “The actual education piece can be done by a teacher,” gym teacher Jamie Walton said. “When a child should start having sex is definitely a conversation for the parent and child. I don’t believe a teacher should push their views of when someone is “ready” on their students. Also, as a teacher we explain how a variety of contraceptives work. I believe that when someone is trying to choose one, a parent or doctor should be advised, not a teacher.” Sex is silenced, but it shouldn’t be. Everyone being educated on sex whether that be by parents, teachers, friends or the internet is important because sex is something that is natural, intriguing and captivating. Society is keeping sex ed on the back burner and only addressing the consequences. Welcome to 2018: sex still isn’t normal, the internet is a child’s best friend and sex education in schools needs more attention for the sake of young and inexperienced generations.
ON THE FIELD | September 29, 2017 | The Cardinal Issue
Whether new generations realize it or not, the prevalence of popular drugs has hit the teen scene with full impact. LAUREN N. BLUTHARDT senior editor // @laurennoellle_
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rom popular American rapper Lil Xan to the various hit songs about drugs in the media, cocaine and Xanax have become numb to the ears of teens nationwide. The presence of narcotics in lyrics, social media and television is frequently used to subversively convey messages to America’s youth. Senior Davis Hampson notices the bigger issue with cocaine and Xanax. “There was a death among one of the frequent rappers in todays scene, Lil Peep, and even a rapper now, Lil Xan,” Hampson said. “I think it definitely adds this kind of romanticism around Xanax and Coke.” The short-lived highs and lows that come with those mind-altering substances are highlighting the art and music of the 21st century. The idea of beauty around dangerous hallucinogens is becoming intriguing to new generations. “I feel like the ways humans work we always want to deviate from the norms and with that I think it’s not exactly how people are raised that makes them want to try drugs, but society in general in this age in time, people are always wanting to try new things,” Hampson said. There is also concern over other forms of drugs heard of in school. For junior Fernando Candia, there is a more pressing issue of nicotine. “The only [drugs] I’ve heard of being used in the school technically is nicotine,” Candia said. “I know in other schools there are issues such as cocaine use and steroids use.” Feeling dazed and confused has started to become more important than health and wellness to the youth population. The promotion of Xanax and cocaine has become normalized in the American culture, which is a dangerous trend for all involved. 31
FEATURES | April 27, 2018 | The XXX Issue
Discovery of one’s self led to her greatest struggle of her young life. ALEXANDRA L. RAPP asst. digital director // @a_rose106
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eople are shaped by their experiences. How one grows up shapes who one is. Parents, friends, family, environment and religion, all have enormous impacts on who one grows up to be. According to the Urban Child Institute, the early home life of a child has a large effect on their well-being. A problematic home life in someone’s childhood can disrupt their brain’s stress response system as an adult. It also reduces the quality of caregiving the child receives and interferes with development. Problems can arise not only with the healthy physical growth of children, but with brain 32
development and sense of self. Children in problematic homes can have trouble developing who they are. In the endless debate of nurture versus nature, while there is no true answer, both play a role in who a child becomes as an adult. But what happens when one’s nature is at odds with how they were raised? All families have values. Sometimes the values taught throughout childhood at home inherently go against who some people are. One of the most prevalent examples of this is the Catholic church’s supposed teachings against homosexuality. While the actual church preaches values and acceptance, love and forgiveness, people have taken these words and twisted them into grotesque mockeries of what they should be. Growing up in a Catholic family, junior Allison Hoffelder faced some difficulty in accepting her sexuality.
“There’s always been something holding me back from wanting to [become a part of the church community] and wanting to go to church and be religious,” Hoffelder said. Hoffelder began to define her sexuality in eighth grade when she discovered the term bisexual. At first, she said she had problems defining herself due to her family’s background. Her grandparents who worship as devout Catholics; Hoffelder believes this contributed to the hesitance in telling her parents about her sexual identity. “Just getting confirmed, honestly, would have been the path of least resistance for me because not getting confirmed was a whole thing in my family,” Hoffelder said. “Lectures from almost every person in the family on my dad’s side, long letters from my grandparents about Jesus and love and everything. It would have been much easier to just get confirmed, but I didn’t want to do that at all.”
Despite being one of the largest voices against homosexuality in the past, in recent years the Catholic Church and especially members of it have begun to turn away from this hatred and into the doctrine of love and kindness that should have been the true values of the church. According to a 2011 survey called “Catholic Attitudes on Gay and Lesbian Issues: A Comprehensive Portrait from Recent Research,” the number of Catholics which support laws that support homosexual rights is at 73 percent and growing. This support is a step forward in a society that, for a long time, ignored the hate crimes against LGBTQ+ people much like the Pulse Nightclub shooting which took place on June 16, 2016. Omar Mateen, a 29-year-old security guard opened fire and killed 49 people and injured 58 others inside Pulse, a gay nightclub in Orlando, Florida.
Rev. James Martin, a Jesuit priest, and author of “Building a Bridge: How the Catholic Church and the LGBT Community Can Enter Into a Relationship of Respect, Compassion, and Sensitivity,” was shocked by the response of Catholic leaders to the shooting. Hearing church leaders hate violence but refuse to acknowledge that homosexual people were targeted caused Martin, a catholic priest, to call for a bridge between the two groups, according to the Washington Post. However, that may not be necessary according to a Pew Research Center Survey. A poll taken in 2001, showed that fifty-seven percent of Americans opposed gay marriage, combatting to the thirty-five percent in support. The same poll, taken every year, shows support for gay marriage growing greatly over time with the 2011 survey having an almost even split. Opinions peaking in the 2017 edition with sixty-two percent of Americans in favor
and thirty-two percent opposed. “The church has definitely become a lot more progressive these days, especially with the Pope and everything being cool with gay people and [the church] now is preaching we love everyone and everything,” Hoffelder said. “Unfortunately, there’s still plenty of churches and Catholic people who 100 percent believe that the Bible is against gay people and it’s unnatural.” Although some people in the church may maintain the idea that homosexuality is a crime against the basic tenements of the church, primarily due to Old Testament passages, the growing acceptance in the modern world truly proves that the world is becoming more accepting and coming together as a whole to prevent children from being neglected or growing up in a home that effects them negatively in adulthood.
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FEATURES | April 27, 2018 | The XXX Issue
AMERICA THE BEAUTIFUL DIANA ANGHEL print director // @didi_anghel
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he political issues of today’s America seem to be non-stop. Breaking news announcing political scandals, tweets informing of changes on insurance policies and videos broadcasting arguments on tax have become normal in everyone’s lives; however, one issue that stands out at the top of the list in importance is immigration laws concerning illegal immigrants. In September, President Donald Trump ordered an end to the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, a system meant to protect those whose parents brought them illegally into the U.S. as children. Over 800,000 individuals were under this program’s protection, making them eligible for deportation after a set amount of time. These immigrants took on the name of Dreamers: a name to symbolize their continuous fight for legal residency and their quest for the infamous American Dream. Immense controversy has circled around this issue, splitting the nation into two. Similarly, here at Antioch Community High School, the student body is filled with diversity even when it comes to political matters. Senior Werner Martin, a conservative, feels no concern regarding how the media portrays his political opinion; however, he believes the media shares only one side of the argument instead of just stating the facts of political news. On the opposite end of the spectrum stands junior Lynn Krock, whose liberal mindset has made her feel concerned about the way the media is displaying her political stance. “Once again, a lot of Americans didn’t want DACA, even to this day,” 34
Martin said. “I say take it [away] because there shouldn’t be any free rides [for immigrants.] Come here the legal way and earn your keep.” Martin, with many other conservatives, stands strong in the idea that it is not fair to come to the United States illegally and still have the same opportunities as everyone else. Liberals, on the other hand, see this issue differently. “The children brought to the U.S. had no choice in the matter,” Krock said. “They shouldn’t be punished for being brought along with their family.” Finding a middle ground between these two opinions may seem extremely unlikely, but when it came to the common idea that Dreamers, along with other immigrants, steal Americans’ jobs, the two sides came to a consensus. “Immigrants aren’t stealing jobs; people that say this are just too [freaking] lazy to go and get a job,” Martin said. “People nowadays want everything handed to them. I was raised [where] if you want something, work for it. You have to earn it.” Similarly, Krock saw this concept as something to ridicule. She acknowledged the struggle immigrant families go through and gave her opinion on the matter. “If you apply for a job and an immigrant receives the job over you, that means they were more qualified,” Krock said. “They haven’t taken it from you.” It’s easy to get lost in the differences and the pressure the media has set between liberals and conservatives; it’s easy to ignore the similarities and it’s even easier to continue the constant arguments. The most difficult, and possibly the most important, task is to stay focused on finding a middle ground which allows both sides to concentrate on their similarities rather than differences. This way, a bridge can be created between the two sides, allowing a healthier connection to grow.
BEYOND THE SCALE MADISEN M. KRAPF team leader // @madisenkrapf
In most facets of life, someone somewhere has received the burden of struggling at one point or another. Possibly these struggles are rare in occurrence, or that person is given the luck of the draw with countless struggles to their name. Those struggles can be controlled by their possessor or be completely unsolvable. Stepping onto the scale and watching the numbers climb higher, or maybe lower, than you hoped for is a struggle that normal individuals have ingrained in their brain to not go through. Regret is smeared across the face of those feet that stepped onto the scale and didn’t like what they saw. Hopeless is the defining word that is stamped across their forehead. Whether or not the individual’s final flashing number is above or below their height average, that person’s self image instantly comes to mind and that number is their definition. Their definition of the person they are, the definition of the clothes they wear, the definition of the activities they pursue. The small number at their feet provides a bigger impact than any “major” life issue. It all comes down to how people perceive them and how that impacts how they view themselves. “It seems [people] are always watching what they are eating to help their body and worrying about what others think of their body,” sophomore Miranda Chamberlin said. “Even though [people of varying size]
are in different positions there are some similarities between their thoughts.” It can safely be assumed that that in today’s world the above-average scale recipients are deemed inferior to their lower-number counterparts. Pop culture and media are just some of the sources accountable for this assumption. Because of this, many patrons all over the world ask themselves questions pertaining to, “am I that size?” or “is my butt like that person’s?” “[People of all sizes] worry about how they look and how others will think of their body,” sophomore Lily Highley said. “[They] all [have] the same problems, just [with] different [numbers].” Even if two individuals are on the polar opposite sides of the scale spectrum, they can still feel the same feelings as if they swapped places. The below-average scale reading receiver is normally glorified by society. “The skinny person is the ideal body figure nowadays,” Highley said. “When people see someone so skinny they say, ‘oh, your body is so perfect! I wish I could have your body’ because everyone wants to be skinny.” Witnessing marketing from top-notch brands portraying that “all sizes are beautiful” is just the beginning of an emerging movement for body empowerment, rather than change. If anyone battling with the scale sees these ads and knows it’s okay to be who they are, then they shouldn’t have a problem truly discovering themselves in a positive self image state. 35
FEATURES | April 27, 2018 | The XXX Issue
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ike a pencil, rules can be broken easily. When rules are written, it seems so simple to know the difference between right and wrong, but maybe the rules are not really that simple after all. Knowing what the rules are could quite possibly be a motive to break them as an act of rebellion; however, soon the line between right and wrong becomes blurry, and all of the sudden things begin to snap, then crack and inevitably break.
THE SNAP
No matter the circumstance, students are finding ways out of what’s expected of them. ALEXANDRA C. JOHNSON tom tom staff // @woahalex2
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It starts with the snap: the eerie noise that starts a scary chain of events. Bending one little rule can’t be that bad, can it? It seems like many people break rules, so it must be okay to try. Memorizing the answers, stealing a glance at someone else’s test, or even something as simple as looking up the answers to certain assignments online doesn’t seem wrong since a lot of students do it and don’t get caught. In reality, that’s not true at all. Health and physical education teacher Robert Hafer teaches students every day about the pressures of being a teenager and continues to share knowledge about what leads to the actions that teens choose to take. “I think there is some peer pressure influence to boost self esteem to fit into a certain crowd,” Hafer said. It is almost easier to do what everyone else is doing instead of trying to follow the rules all the time. Many students believe that others who never bend the rules are “goody goodies” or “teacher’s pets.” This may be another reason why kids find it easy to break some rules: to seem cool to their peers.
Snap. Snap. Snap. That noise is a constant reminder that bending the rules is just as wrong as breaking them, and it could quite possibly lead to even worse consequences in the end.
THE CRACK
This follows shortly after the snap. The small fracture in the pencil that seems like nothing and it is just looked right over. Bending the rules becomes so normal, that whatever was being done before cannot even be remembered. “I think [bending the rules] happens quite a bit, more so than I realized or anyone else realizes,” Hafer said. It often becomes a habit after a while, something that becomes hard to control; not many try to control their urge to find loopholes and essentially, cheat or break the rules . However, that fracture is still there lingering in the background, waiting to grow bigger and bigger until the original pencil is not even recognizable anymore. It doesn’t take a genius to know something is wrong, but no one wants to try and fix the pencil that still works without issues. No one wants to admit that maybe what they are doing can actually cause more problems than solutions.
THE BREAK
This is where it all starts to spiral out of control. The pencil is now broken in half and there is no way that it can be put back together again and
resemble what it was before. The damage has been done, and now, it is time to accept the consequences. Just like a pencil, after a while of bending the rules they will eventually break and there is no going back. Sometimes, students are not aware of the repercussions that they will face if they are caught breaking the rules that have been created. Sophomore Kacey Meltzer has witnessed, time and time again, students getting in trouble for pushing the rules too far until they had finally reached the limit. “They know it’s against the rules, so it almost gives you the sense of rebellion, but you could get a detention or you could get expelled,” Meltzer said. Two broken pieces of a pencil can no longer be the same, just like a major mistake cannot be taken back after the fact.
THE AFTERMATH
There will always be consequences to any actions, whether they are good or bad. Bending the rules is an action like no other: it is a choice that seems like it may have no consequences, since it is rare that one gets caught doing such a thing. It is the grey area that comes with any black and white situation. It is the smudge of the pencil lead on the paper before the first decision is made to start this path of destruction in the first place. It may seem so simple to break, but like a pencil, once it is broken it will never be the same again. 37
SPORTS | April 27, 2018 | The XXX Issue
IN SEASON EMILY M. TORRES
TRACK LOOKS TOWARD POTENTIAL STATE SUCCESS
The boys track team has been flying through their season, winning every outdoor meet so far. The team has also competed against many teams in the Northern Lake County Conference, beating each one and receiving first place. “If we keep up the good work, we might be the conference champions for track and field,” sophomore TreShawn Watson said. To prepare for conference, the team splits into groups and works on their specific events. They also go through routines and drills to get the best possible outcome for the rest of the season. After a successful indoor season, the team can’t wait to continue their success through the rest of the spring season. The girls track outdoor season got cut short due to weather condition. However, they have been using those opportunities to work even harder during practices. “We are still working hard in practice so that towards the end of our season, we can improve our times,” junior Noor Abdellatif said. The girls hope that some athletes qualify for state with the work that they have been putting in. The team is using their dual meets as preparation for sectionals coming up on May 10. BASEBALL The boys varsity baseball team has had a great season this spring. The team has been improving after each game in the season and want to continue winning games this year. The ultimate goal is to win a regional championship. “I feel like so far, our season is off to a decent start but not up to our full potential,” junior Sean Weiser said. 38
Benjamin Nauman
SOFTBALL The softball team has had much improvement since their season has been fragmented because of cooler weather. With all the new team members, it was a rocky start because they couldn’t find where players would work best on the field. They also had to decide what would be the best option for the team. “Our chemistry is great and we definitely built it up compared to the beginning of the season,” junior Avery Malicki-Czaplewski said. The girls’ end goal is to defeat teams to make their mark at state. BOYS TENNIS The tennis team has gained four new varsity players and they have five returning varsity players this year. The season has not been what the boys had hoped for, but they are still keeping their chins up. One of the teams difficulties in the current season has been trying to figure out how to work together. “Even though it isn’t going exactly how we want it to right now, we will figure it out as the season continues,” senior Nick Galante said.
SOCCER Girls varsity soccer has had a rollercoaster of a season so far. They had a rough start in the beginning of the season that left the team discouraged. The girls moods changed when the season picked up as they won almost all of their games in the past month. “We hope to keep up this momentum going into regionals,” junior Karina Steitz said. VOLLEYBALL The boys volleyball season had a great start with many successes. They had a draining couple of weeks as they had multiple games in a matter of one week. The boys became physically exhausted from the amount of games, which then caused the team to lose the energy they needed to win. “It took a lot of energy out of the team. We pride ourselves in being really energetic,” junior Joseph Whittall said. The boys turned the season around recently by working hard in practice and keeping a positive attitude about the rest of the season. LACROSSE The boys lacrosse team has seen much success this season compared to last year. The boys are currently sitting at a record of 6-3. Something that the team has changed from the last season is that they have become better at communicating on the field. “Communication helps all aspects of the game, defensively and offensively,” senior Gino Riforgiatto said.
CHANGING THE NORM Athletes who challenge the gender status quo that has been established in sports.
MERRICK W. FOOTE tom tom staff // @mfoo42
C
hange is right around the corner in the world of athletics. The arena has always been a place for people to come together as a team and compete in the crucible of combat that sports is often seen as. However, while most people feel able to participate, there have always been those who do not feel welcome alongside their teammates. Often these people are different in some way; be it by race, gender or any other difference, these people stand out amongst a crowd of others who are the same. At Antioch Community High School, these people are the ones who are daring to go where many of their peers have been too scared to go previously: they are playing a sport that is not normally associated with their gender. Although the world is typically thought of as a harsh place, these trailblazers have thus far been met with open arms and good spirits. Whether the world likes it or not, these people are harbingers of a change that has been long waited upon by many.
Haydin Sorrentino
Paul Valdivia
Sophomore Haydin Sorrentino first started playing on the boys D117 lacrosse team this year. She decided to try out not because she wanted to break the mold, but for the same reason as anyone else would decide to try a new sport. Sorrentino wanted something new to do and lacrosse seemed to be the best answer. “I wanted to try a new sport and since lacrosse is getting bigger and bigger I thought I would give it a shot,” Sorrentino said. Like Sorrentino, most agents of change do not operate because they want to challenge the status quo. Instead, change happens because normal people decide to do seemingly normal actions. Consequently, these small actions end up developing into massive shifts in human, cultural or lifestyle shifts. Even though humans are popularly thought of as creatures of habit, most people have been welcoming to the new generation of leaders. “[Everyone] thought it was awesome,” Sorrentino said. “They couldn’t believe I was going to play on a boys team.” Not only did other people feel great about Sorrentino’s newfound hobby, but she herself also felt as if she was doing important. “[Playing] feels amazing,” Sorrentino said. “It’s just like proving to the guys that girls are capable.”
Sorrentino isn’t the only athlete challenging the gender norm at ACHS. Sophomore Paul Valdivia has also found himself at the center of attention this year as he began his career in cheerleading. Valdivia has quickly become accustomed to his new cheer-heavy lifestyle and is loving the sport. Valdivia has always been amazed by the capabilities of cheerleaders, which was his personal reason for trying out to be a cheerleader in the first place. “I have always been interested in the sport and have always wanted to be able to flip like they can,” Valdivia said. “I saw the opportunity to try out so I took it.” A big part of why Valdivia is so engrossed in cheer is because it is fulfilling lifelong dreams of his. Another factor is his love for his teammates. At first, Valdivia did not know his new teammates very well. However, he quickly got to know them and developed new bonds with people he didn’t previously know. “It was weird because I didn’t know them well but as practices and competitions came along the way we all became close was fun,” Valdivia said. “They’re all really fun to be around and we’re passionate about the sport.” Being on an almost entirely female team actually benefited Valdivia in the long run. His teammates helped him to learn and grow as an athlete. They also helped him to understand the sport of cheerleading better. “They taught me it’s more than just pompoms,” Valdivia said.
‘‘
Eleni Sakas
THEY TAUGHT ME IT’S MORE THAN JUST POMPOMS.”
JV CHEERLEADER // PAUL VALDIVIA
39
PERSPECTIVES | April 27, 2018 | The XXX Issue
WHAT IT FEELS LIKE TO HAVE
A BREAST REDUCTION BY JILLIAN EVERETT
I
was defined by my boobs; every day they consumed my thoughts and actions. I could never escape them. They were always there, always
reminding me of the limits they imposed on my life. Whenever I walked into a room, everyone’s eyes would focus not on my face, but my chest. Whenever someone was describing who I was to another person, they would say, “You know, the girl with the big boobs.” It became clear in high school that I couldn’t live with them anymore. My increasing chest size took a toll on my normal daily activities. Being in sports all year round was the biggest challenge: imagine jumping, running, spinning, even stretching with double H cups. I mean, I didn’t even know double H was a bra size until I had to start going to specialty stores to find something that would actually fit. At this time, I didn’t realize how big they actually were because, well, I was living with them every day, so I got somewhat used to them. When I told my peers about my struggles, they didn’t understand. They couldn’t wrap their brain around why I would ever “get rid of my best feature.” Understandably, everyone loved them; they were somewhat of an anomaly. They were something to talk about; guys would argue that they aren’t that bad to live with, that I should keep them. One of my favorite comments was, “Jill, I won’t talk to you ever again if you get a breast reduction.” I tried not to take it to heart, but the comments fed my insecurities and weighed on my thoughts of getting the proce-
40
dure. What if everyone is right and they won’t like me as much with smaller boobs? What if guys won’t be attracted to me anymore? Would this change the person my male friends identify with? For that matter, would this change the
and confusion. I cried almost every day after the procedure. I was fearful of what others would think, and I was fearful of looking in the mirror and not recognizing myself. It’s silly to look back on it and think that this one part of my appear-
person my female friends identify with? Most 17 year olds haven’t had to face this kind of life changing decision. That’s why I was fearful. Fearful of the reactions. Fearful of the physical and mental pain. Fearful that I would lose a level of sexuality. Let’s be honest, every girl wants to be found attractive by somebody. Oftentimes, we are judged before someone gets to know our inner beauty, worth and intelligence. That is why I was scared to lose a part of myself. The last day of junior year marked a major milestone in my life; after the letter came in the mail informing me that our insurance would cover the surgery, I decided to get a breast reduction. In the end, I knew I had to do what was best for me and my future. The recovery was harder than anything I had been through before. Thank god I didn’t know what it was going to feel like after the surgery or else I wouldn’t have gone through with it. I was in Hell for weeks; I could not move my arms, I could not move my torso, I could not do anything for myself. My mom had to brush my teeth, bathe me and even help me sit up. I was completely vulnerable and could do nothing for myself, a feeling that I never want to experience again. A feeling that I wouldn’t wish on anyone. The physical pain went away after a couple months, but the real doozy is the mental pain
ance could bring up so many emotions, but it’s the truth. I still feel insecure, but I’m not alone because isn’t that the human condition? Don’t we all struggle with our own self worth? I try my hardest to live my life confidently, but the feeling of regret creeps into my head often. 11 months later, and I can say, with some confidence, that I am glad I did it. Truly, no one can ever understand what it was like to live with them, and what it was like to get a breast reduction, until they have lived with them, felt the burden and made the life changing choice to have surgery. Looking back on the whole process, I think that this decision took major guts and bravery. I chose to change my life in a major way that altered everything I do, and it even altered the way I think about certain things. I second-guessed myself every day before the surgery, and I still sometimes notice the feeling of regret deep inside me. They are just boobs, but they are so much more than that. They are just made of fat, that carry a big impact in my life. They shouldn’t be a big deal, but they are. They use to define me, but now I define me.
Jillian Everett 41
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