Newspaper: Fall 2021

Volume LIII

First Edition

Fall 2021

Why you should start investing now. Page 5

Award-winning “Squid Game” Review. Page 13

Eastern Regional High School

Eastern performs “She Kills Monsters.” Page 14

1401 Laurel Oak Road

Coach Bolen as Head Coach. Page 16

Voorhees, NJ 08043

It’s time to retire English curriculum Classics

By JORDAN KRAMER ‘24 Staff Reporter

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any books read in English classes date far back. Oliver Twist was published in 1838, Shakespeare’s works were written between 1590 to 1613, and Homer’s The Odyssey was estimated to be written in about 725–675 bce.

Although some of these novels can connect to the world, most of their subject matter is not relevant in the world we live in now. One aspect included in books published over the past 30 years that isn’t typically found in older books is diversity in the stories.

Having POC main characters, along with characters that are a part of the LGBTQIA+ community, are more commonly found in books today. The need for diversity in literature is very crucial; students should be reading about all types of people to educate themselves on different experiences, while others may feel represented by characters who are like them.

Now, not all older books are necessarily bad or pointless to read in class, but the majority are just about one demographic: white men.

However in English II at Eastern, students read All Quiet On The Western Front, where while it is about primarily white men, the lessons and themes of the horrors of war and comradeship

are essential for students to learn and understand.

In contrast, during English I, students read Of Mice and Men, and there were many racist lines and moments, mainly with the one black character in the novel, Crooks. Although the book does show themes and great moments of friendship, loneliness,

Books published over 30 years ago often feature less overall diversity and white, male protagonists. and loyalty, there are countless other new books that show those same themes without racist ideas mixed in.

A good example of this that could teach valuable lessons to students is Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe by Benjamin Alire Sáenz.

In this novel, the main character Ari is a lonely teenager growing up in El Paso, Texas, in the 80s.

He meets a boy named Dante, and together a beautiful friendship blossoms. Readers can learn a ton about love, acceptance, and dealing with problems that are out of your control while still keeping the curriculum modern.

Best of all, this book is very popular on social media, so if kids were to see that the novel is very acclaimed, they may be more open and enthusiastic towards reading it.

When sophomore Alanna Stein

was asked how the English curriculum affected her feelings and enthusiasm towards the class, she said “the books we read in English class make it boring and monotonous because we read things people have read forever. I don’t care about Odysseus, although I do understand that mythology is an important way to make connections to the world.”

Stein goes on to give an example of a book she recently enjoyed, The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo.

“I’m not a big reader, but over the summer I read The Seven Husbands and I read it so fast because it was something that interested me. The themes portray common issues that our world is dealing with today like superficial friends and strained relationships. The main character is a woman who is a person of color, Most of the English books read at Eastern all include along with being queer in a time Caucasian male protagonists, reiterating the point that where that wasn’t acceptable. diversity is needed.

Photo by Jordan Kramer ‘24 Seeing how she overcomes her challenges was inspiring to me, and would be to many other students,” she said.

Stein wraps everything up by ily, and taking classes at TCNJ

BY MAHAWA saying “Although classics are to get her certification to teach BANGOURA ‘23 considered fundamental pieces Psychology.

Staff Reporter of literature to read, I believe Coming from a family of eduthat if we read more relatable cators, she always had an idea s Eastern Regional and current books I would enjoy that she wanted to be a teacher.

High School’s enEnglish class and benefit from it It truly clicked and made a conrollment increases to more.” nection for her in her junior year 2,000 students, like it The world is forever growing of high school.

She believed it was pre-pandemic, Eastern also and adapting, and it’s time that was in her blood to do this. welcomes Ms. Ali Shifton, a juour English classes’ book selecShe has always been interested nior history teacher in room 206, tion meet those changes. in social studies and had high with open arms. school teachers who nourished Ms. Shifton’s childhood conher love for the subject by relatsisted of being curled up with a The LGBTQ+ Bar states,“The ing the topics and discussions to book, listening to music, playing Gay/Trans panic defense act is a her life. Shifton appreciated and rec soccer in Cherry Hill, taking legal strategy that asks a jury to connected with her teachers who pride in her schoolwork, and find that a victim’s sexual orienused the more interactive methtutoring children in social studtation or gender identity/expresod of hands on learning instead ies, all leading her to Eastern’s sion is to blame for a decison of hardcore notes. humble abode.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 2 “I never expected to have my She graduated from Cherry Hill fi rst job via Eastern, but it has Social Media and COVID East and The College of New been amazing,” Shifton said.

- 11 Jersey where she majored in Despite attending East, used Texas Abortion Law - 12 History Secondary Ed., landing the more interactive method Kacey Musgraves - 13 her a job in Eastern. of hands on learning instead of “False Art” by Ben KesWhen she’s not in the classhardcore notes. sler - 14 room, Ms. Shifton enjoys being “I never expected to have my Tennis Pro - 15 at the beach, reading, spending time with friends and famEastern Tennis - 16 CONTINUED ON PAGE 2

The Gay/Trans panic defense and what it Means

BY OLIVIA MARCANTUONO ‘22 Staff Reporter

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espite public

widespread protest, the

What’s Inside?

Jojo Siwa Joins Dancing with the Stars - 2 Fun Features of iOS 15-3 Disposable Mask Waste Piles Up - 4 Colleges Go Test Optional - 5

Gay/Trans panic defense is still being used today, causing members of the LGBTQ+ community to face prosecution based on the pretense that their orientation is the primary cause for the victim’s reaction.

Are Lockers Necessary -6 The Story Behind Eastern Graduate’s film Hideout -7 Spirit Week- 8-9 Voyager on Lunch and Learn - 10

Ms. Shifton shifts to Eastern

A

2 The Voyager

News

Fall 2021

Jojo Siwa Makes History on Dancing With the Stars

Jojo (left) and her partner, Jenna Johnson (right) effortlessly performing their dance with cheerful smiles. Photo by Eric McCandless / ABC

By CASSIDY GOLIN ‘24 Features Editor

S

tarting with her career on the hit reality show, “Dance Moms,” Jojo Siwa has been in the spotlight for most of her life. However, unlike her fellow stars, she capitalized on this opportunity to create a brand

for herself, and developed a contract with Nickelodeon to sell her brand.

For years, she was accused of putting on a fake persona for the cameras.

Between the high ponytail and the bright colors, everyone assumed this 17 year old girl was simply a fake persona put on to sell toys.

Yet ever since she joined TikTok, the public opinion of her has changed. Her

The Gay-Trans Panic Defense and What it Means

Continued from page 1

emplifies that this act is only there to supincluding murder.” This same article says port the unjustified prosecution of LG“When a perpetrator uses an LGBTQ+ BTQ people. “panic” defense, they are claiming that Key information about the Gay/Trans a victim’s sexual orientation or gender Panic Defense : identity not only explains—but excusLGBTQ people were about four times es—a loss of self-control and the subsemore likely to experience serious vioquent assault. lence, including rape or sexual assault, By fully or partially acquitting the perperobbery, and aggravated or simple assault trators of crimes against LGBTQ+ victhan non-LGBTQ people. tims, this defense implies that LGBTQ+ - LGBTQ people were more likely than lives are worth less non-LGBTQ people Over 40 states and than others.” to experience vioterritories still use the In other words, the lence at the hands of Gay/Trans panic de- Gay-Trans Panic Defense. someone well-known fense act makes prosto them. ecution of a person of - Transgender people are more then four the LGBT+ community legal based on the time more likey to experience violence basis of a threatening the cisgendered people.

One of the most recognized cases that In 2015 a transgender servey was sent employed the LGBTQ+ “panic” defense out and the respondents had reported that was that of Matthew Shepard. In 1998, they had been sexualy assaulted at some Matthew Shepard, a 21-year-old college point in their lives. One in ten had been student, was murdered. The men attemptassaulted the year prior. ed to use the LGBTQ+ “panic” defense to In 2020, W. Carsten Anderson, associexcuse their actions. ate professor at St. Edwards University, Despite widespread public protest, the defound that the gay and trans fense is still being used today. panic defense were used at least 104 times Most people who die from this act are across 35 ststes, the distract if columbia, trans women of color. According to St. and purto rico between 1970 and 2020.

Edward’s University, “Of 31 trans womThis act was founded and started in 1920 en where race/ethnicity information is - on going available, the majority were people of What states still use the gay / trans panic color, with 21 (67.74%) of the victims defense in 2021?

African-American, 7 Latinx (22.6%), 2 - Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansaw, (6.45%) Caucasian, and 1 Native AmeriDeleware, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Indican (3.23%).” The reality of the situation ana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, is that the defendants are not surprised Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, when they find out that the victim is a part Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebrasof the LGBTQ comunity. ka, New Hampshire, New Mexico, North “In many cases where the gay and trans Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahopanic defenses have been raised, we see ma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South that the victim and the defendant had a Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, West relationship prior to the homicide or the Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming, Amerihomicide occurred in the course of a robcan Samoa, Commonwealth of the Northbery,” said lead author Christy Mallory, ern Mariana Islands, Guam, Puerto Rico, Legal Director at the Williams Institute.

U.S. Virgin Islands “These findings suggest that defendants were not surprised or in a state of panic when the homicides occurred.” This ex-

hate turned into praise, and her biggest “I think coming out has this stigma critics began to cheer for her. This was all around it that it’s a really really scary due to one key realization: it isn’t a perthing… it’s not anymore. There’s so many sona. Like alternative icons David Bowie accepting and loving people out there” and Lady Gaga, Siwa is using her fashion says Siwa on the matter. and lifestyle to stand out from the crowd.

During the aftermath of this event, Jojo She chooses to express herself in a hyperSiwa’s song, “Boomerang” has skyrockpositive manner, always choosing to foeted in plays. The song’s message is in cus on the good in her fans, the world, reference to dealing with “haters.” Siwa and herself. This personality combined preaches being yourself, no matter the rewith her bright, colorful, and shiny fashaction, and this message has been ampliion has created a large group of fans from fied as she came out. the ages 14-19.

For the LGBTQIA+ community, posiHer previous target demographic, tive representation is an important thing while still viable, is no longer her main in the media. To see a celebrity such as source of interaction Jojo Siwa, with such a on social media. She Jojo and Jenna are mov- large fan base of chilis no longer an idea dren, come out is an marketed to kids, she ing on to the Final Round! incredible step. A mais a person that teens jority of Gen Z, along admire. They look up to her courage and with the generations before it, grew up her ability to be herself, and this only inwithout any representation of the queer creased as she made the decision to come community in the media they consumed. out.

Disney and Nickelodeon promoted hetOn January 20th, 2021, fan suspicions erosexual relationships, and queer acwere confirmed as the Tik Tok account tors were discouraged from speaking out @pridehousela posted a video featuring about their own sexuality. To know that Siwa. This was followed by a video on Jothe next generation will grow up with jo’s personal account with her lip-syncing more queer representation in media is a to Lady Gaga’s “Born This Way.” large step in the right direction.

To Siwa’s surprise, the reaction was Even for those who do not fall under nearly 100% positive. Her post was the queer umbrella, Siwa’s message is still flooded with comments saying “we’re so powerful. She encourages everyone to be proud” and “congrats!” The post received their genuine self, no matter what othover 7 million likes, and over 300 thouers think. As Jojo Siwa says, “of course sand comments. Jojo was overwhelmed people are going to say it’s not normal, by the love, and followed it with another but it’s your normal. It’s okay to be a little post five days later, expressing her gratidifferent, it’s okay to be a little weird, it’s tude for the positive reaction. okay to be a little strange.”

Ms. Shifton shifts to Eastern Continued from page 1

mindset instead of settling with the idea first job via Eastern, but it has been amazof being strict and overbearing. ing,” Shifton said.

Even though she isn’t strict with her stuDespite attending East, Shifton is fully dents, Ms. Shifton sticks closely to her committed to Eastern. lesson plans. She considers herself a plan“I loved my high school experience, but ner, making lesson plans everyday, and I believe Eastern is the best fit for me,” the only reason she wouldn’t follow her she said. lesson plans is because of time.

She wants to “If not, I would keep her students go crazy,” she said, engaged and motilaughing. “And we vated while directcan’t operate that ing them to become way!” self-directed learnAs school continues ers and promoting on, there is bound student voice. to be some hiccups “I think students along the way, but should make pershe plans to navisonal and literal gate them through a connections with “positive, collaborathe material. Once tive conversation.” they do that, they Ms. Shifton teaches her Expression 2 Growing up, Ms. will buy into your history class through hands-on, interac- Shifton always took class,” she said. the highest level of tive lessons.

Photo by Tiana Cyrelson ‘22 Ms. Shifton’s own history classes from tips for studying Honors World, to AP and taking notes are connecting the lesPsych., to APUSH, since it was the class sons in history to her students’ lives as her that was personally important to her. teachers had done for her. For example, Even though these classes came with her U.S. II History classes are learning their own set of burdens and a certain about the Progressive Era and are conamount of stress, they were the classes tinually making connections to what they that her teachers made engaging and got have in their present day society. She has the wheels in her brain to turn and made a Make-History Board in the back of her her think that history does matter. class that exhibits different honorary figFrom high school history to college hisures who have made a change in history. tory, she saw a difference of night and Through this board and more, she wants day. High school history was implanted her students to realize that they can and do in textbooks and notes with names and make an impact on history. dates, while college history transformed When her students walk past the threshher into a historian with an abundance of old of her door, they know that they will research, reading, analyzing, and making be working and learning. hands-on personal connections.

As for classroom rules, she wants her She believes this is how her students can students to be respectful. Respect stems also make these connections. off into different branches, like being reShe wouldn’t want to teach any other spectful to her, her time, their peers, and subject; Ms. Shifton sticks by history like the content. an unmoving boulder.

Respect is also showing up on time and “I love the content,” she said. being prepared for Ms. Shifton’s class.

She prefers to use more of a “growth”

The Voyager 3 News Scholar recipients of College Board National Recognition Program

Fall 2021

By ARIANNA MORALES ‘22 Associate Editor-in-Chief

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Yash Davalbhakta Sriram Kiron Klio Kokolis Riya Nandakumar Dhruv K Patel Nandni Patel Carly Schulman Claire Sklar Leah Snyderman Kartik Vijayapuri Valora Wong Laura Yang

ongratulations to all of the scholars awarded by the College Board across various recognition programs, including the commended scholars for NMSQT (National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test), the semi finalists for the NMSQT, the National Hispanic Recognition Program Scholars recognized and National for their excellence in African Ameri- PSAT and AP scores can Recognition Program. Each of these students were recogSemi-Finalists nized for their excellence on eifor NMSQT: ther the PSAT/AP scores.

Lauren Kenselaar Commended NMSQT: Jacob Berko Jared Brunner

Scholars

for

The commended scholars smile with Dr. Tull (left), holding their certificates proudly to the camera.

Vikram Meyyappan National Hispanic Recognition Program:

Photo by Mr. Nick Catania

Alexander DeCicco Arianna Morales Devon Baraldi Gabriel Robayo Julia DeFulvio

Sydney-Leigh Brockington National African American Recognition Program: Arianna Morales

Chukwuemeka Ugorji Delize Patterson Sydney Leigh-Brockington Ziani Williams

The overlooked posture Problem posture, action must be taken.

Most people use technology while they are sitting down or standing up. The way phones are held commonly causes the user to look down, whether they are sending a tweet, playing a game, or watching a video.

Furthermore, when seated, an individual does not only have to continuously look downward, but they slouch as well.

Here at Eastern, now that iPads are used almost every day in all classrooms, students are work-

er age, allowing for this horrid habit to shape and start deteriorating the functionality of children’s necks and backs. here exists today a habit Students should be encouraged with severe, long-term to sit up straight in class, as it risks and addiction improves posture as well as atrates equivalent to that tentiveness. Due to the increase of smoking and drinkof the workload being coming, yet it is never frequently pleted on electronic devices, the spoken about. attendees of Eastern and other The lurking consequences have schools would benefit from the reached children and young proposal of standing desks, as adults beginning at younger they keep items level with the ages as modern history prohead. gresses. These At home, adoproblems have lescents have always existed to find posibut are now as tions when uswidespread as ing their phones the technology that won’t harm it spurs from — their spines; this and it is just getstill goes for ting worse. other people.

Ever since the It’s equally iminvention of the portant to stand cell phone, huup straight, mans of all ages keep shoulders slouch much back, and keep more from gazheads level. For ing down at younger gentheir screens. erations, it is According to the imperative to American Chimaintain decent ropractic Assopostures for as ciation, around long as poseighty percent sible to prevent of Americans problems in the will experience future.

Using back problems Without proper care and awareness, the poor posture motivations, in their lifetime. epidemic will continue, with tremendous consequnces. such as the desire However, this Photo by Kyle Goldstein ‘24/Canva.com to be strong when percentage spikes elderly, is the best in younger generations since ing under these conditions for way to keep someone in check. they are more accustomed to hours on end. Without proper Overall, bad posture among hand-held technology, and conyounger generations is a rising tinues to increase, fast. issue in the health field. There Slouching and hunching puts Bad posture among are many ways people can help pressure on the plates in the neck reverse their curving spines, but younger generations and back, up and down the spinot enough attention is given is a rising issue in nal cord. Enough stress on these to the matter; many do not care the health field. muscles over time can cause about what difficulties will ultiextreme pain; most have known mately arise in the future. The this for quite some time. Many students at Eastern apply to are also aware that older people care and awareness, this will this population, and something start to have back problems after cause tremendous health issues needs to be put in place to pretheir many years on this planet. for many students. As the years vent such destructive outcomes.

However, when teenagers and pass, iPads in schooling are beadults in their early twenties and ing to be introduced at a youngthirties start to experience poor

By KYLE GOLDSTEIN ‘24 Staff Reporter

T

Dr. Tull (left) smiles with Semi-Finalists Lauren Kenselaar (middle) and Vikram Meyyappan (right).

Photo by Mr. Nick Catania

iOS 15: Packed with Features

By MICHAEL SORENSEN ‘22 Staff Reporter

I

OS 15, the latest iteration of Apple’s mobile operating system, introduces a number of quality-of-life features that elevate the iPhone to an even greater potential.

This update introduces SharePlay to FaceTime, which allows you to share your screen, a movie, a song, and other forms of media while on video calls with friends and family. Notifications have been given a sleeker and more compact design.

Contact photos have been added to messages and app icons are now larger. Notifications are arranged by priority, with more relevant and urgent notifications near the top.

Text can now be selected on photos through a new feature called “Live Text.” Surprisingly, it can even recognize handwriting. You can also search images through photos.

Safari has been redesigned to feature the tabs and search bar all on the bottom of the screen. Swiping from the bottom switches between tabs. This ease of access feature makes it

far more convenient to use Safari with one hand on today’s considerably larger iPhones. Safari now has a customizable startup page so that you can access your most-traveled websites as soon as you open the app.

Apple Maps has a feature where you can hold up your phone and create walking directions by scanning surrounding buildings.

New kinds of keys and state IDs have been added to Apple Wallet. Ultra Wideband technology allows you to unlock your car without even taking your phone out of your pocket.

One of the most potent features of this new operating system update is the “Focus” feature.

This feature filters notifications based on what you want to focus on. You can customize this feature to tailor to specific apps.

There are also suggested Focus presets for work and sleep. You can make home screen pages with only the apps and widgets that are relevant to a specific Focus. If someone messages you and they are blocked due to your Focus, they will be notified that you cannot be reached. iOS 15 is packed with features of this nature to improve your experience on your iPhone.

4 The Voyager

Features

Fall 2021

Should more stars adorn our national Flag? anything people have become used to, the whole of modern America usually isn’t the most supportive. Contempt citizens are scared of change because they don’t n 1917, Congress denied millions know what downfalls will come with new of U.S. citizens the right to vote, a decisions. precedent that has been upheld for However, the main reason for this digenerations. The United States of lemma is based on an entirely different America is known for its equality, liberty, issue: politics. and freedom granted to all of its citizens.

There’s currently a battle over which However, there are many Americans outU.S. citizens are allowed representation side the jurisdiction of the fifty states, livin their federal government. Like true ing on islands in the Atlantic and Pacific.

American patriots, politicians often use Interestingly, they don’t receive the same this as fuel to the raging feud of their twotreatment and rights as those on the mainparty system. land. America is currently in possession Most Democrats are for the cause and of five permanently inhabited territories: avidly push to accept territories as states, Puerto Rico, Guam, the U.S. Virgin Isspecifically D.C. and Puerto Rico. They lands, the Northern Mariana Islands, and believe that residents living in the District American Samoa. The District of Columof Columbia and Puerto Rico are treated bia, although within the continental Unitlike second-class citizens. ed States, is also a territory.

They don’t Most of have voting these posMost of these possessions have representasessions have been been in the hands of the United States tion in the for over a century, yet they have House of in the hands of the Unitnot been granted statehood, despite Representatives or the ed States withholding significant populations.

Senate. Furfor over a Puerto Rico, specifically, with thermore, all century, yet over three million people, is more other territothey have populous than 21 official states. ries, except not been for Washgranted ington D.C., statehood, don’t receive voting rights in American despite withholding significant populapresidential elections. tions. Puerto Rico, specifically, with over On the other hand, many Republicans three million people, is more populous are against this idea of long-standing terthan 21 official states. ritories becoming fully-fledged states.

This begs the question: Why are territoThey conclude that the Democrats are ries with such large representations, such simply trying to one-up them in Congress, as Puerto Rico and D.C, not becoming as D.C. is notoriously liberal, and Puerto states?

Rico would most likely lean left.

Well, it might have something to do with This increase in left-wing representation the fact that the last U.S. territory to be would come with free seats in the House added to the Union was admitted in 1959, and Senate. Also, the conservatives conover sixty years ago. sider Puerto Rico’s financial problems; When it comes to breaking long-standthe territory is tens of billions of dollars in ing policies, such as granting statehood, debt, which would take years to resolve – altering the American flag, or changing

By KYLE GOLDSTEIN ‘24 Staff Reporter

I

Why are territories with such large representations, such as Puerto Rico and D.C., not becoming states?

Photo by Kyle Goldstein/Canva.com most likely with taxpayer money.

Washington D.C. last conducted a statehood referendum in 2016, and over 85 percent of its residents voted in favor of admission into the Union. Puerto Rico had one held during the 2020 Presidential election; however, only 52.5 percent of its residents were in favor.

This has changed in recent years, as the approval rating for statehood has been as high as 97 percent in 2017. Each year the amount of support varies, but the majority of votes have been for statehood in the last decade. Many question if a simple majority is enough to show that the peo-

ple of Puerto Rico are for integration into the Union, or if there needs to be a large acceptance.

Even if the people of these territories wanted to merge, is it best for the whole of America to allow them into its Union?

The goal of this mission is to give all Americans equal representation throughout the lands. Though, it may just be a liberal plot to steal power and take over the government by creating new, permanent Democrat seats to Congress. Everyone has their opinions, and it is very complicated.

After all: This. Is. Politics.

The environmental impact of disposable Masks

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By ANNA LANGAN ‘22 Staff Reporter

or the last 2 years, it’s a guarantee that everyone has heard the words Coronavirus, COVID-19, and “wear your mask” nonstop. It can be assured that the whole world is sick of hearing those same words on repeat. COVID has become a normalized part of our everyday lives.

Wake up, get dressed, put on a mask, social distance; these are all usual parts of a daily routine since March 2020. Vaccinated or not, masking up is a requirement for schools, stores, campuses and most other public locations.

But nobody ever thinks about the environmental impact of this lifestyle.

According to MIT, “The COVID-19 pandemic is estimated to generate up to 7,200 tons of medical waste every day, much of which is disposable masks.” Just let that sink in.

For the last few years, people have produced hundreds of tons of waste just by wearing disposable masks. Now, it is understandable that disposable protection is necessary in medical locations or other jobs, but to cause tons of weight just for everyday laziness is irresponsible. This being said, there are many different opinions and alternatives on this matter.

Besides the obvious use of masks as protection from the transmission of Coronavirus when in close quarters, they can be much more than that. Masks can be

used to accessorize or enhance an outfit with unique patterns and styles, or they can be sewn and serve the role as an interactive activity for students. Rather than just going for the same pack of disposable masks, students and teachers can embrace their creativity by sewing their own masks, buying reusable masks with all different pattern varieties, or simply buying a plain reusable mask and customizing it.

Photo by Anna Langan/Canva.com

Not only does this make wearing masks more desirable, but it can be reworn or reworked infinitely. Rather than wearing a disposable mask once, custom made masks are not easily confused with those of other people and can be reworn an infinite amount of times.

So, how can you make an impact on your environment?

There are still methods to be more con-

siderate of the environment if wearing a disposable mask is necessary.

One of these options offered at Eastern is through the E.S.C.A.P.E Club, run by Ms. Roberts. According to Eastern’s ETV News, E.S.C.A.P.E Club has partnered with TerraCycle.

TerraCycle is an organization that had previously established a PPE For the last few years, people have produced hundreds Recycling System. of tons of waste just by wearing disposable masks.

When COVID hit, Photo by Ronald Wittek/EPA via Shuttershock TerraCycle streamlined their services to more broadly fit the public need to According to TerraCycle, mask materials solve the current situation of increased can be turned into almost anything. medical waste. They streamlined this pro“The resulting recycled material is used cess to be more accessible for the public by third parties to manufacture a variety in 4 simple steps. of new products including outdoor furThe steps of PPE Recycling consist of niture, plastic shipping pallets, outdoor collection, check in, recycling, and new decking, watering cans, storage containproducts. Masks are collected in zeroers, bins, tubes for construction applicawaste Boxes, shipped off to the Terrations, etc.”

Cycle facility, inspected, sorted for the So, rather than creating those 7,200 tons materials within them, and then recycled of mask/PPE waste daily and contributinto new products. ing to the growing environmental issues, Masks, gloves, face shields, and a seeking alternatives within the Eastern wide variety of other Personal Protective community is an accessible and beneficial Equipment are accepted. solution for all.

Fall 2021

Features

The Voyager 5

College test-optional policies challenge applicants

other students and receive scholarship awards. Now, however, the once critical tests that teens around the country once bit down their nail beds for are no longer seen as the #1 priority in the application process. tandardized tests are not for everyone.

On the other hand, so many students can easily say Well, actually they’re for everyone, but you they’re relieved. A large percentage of applicants know what I mean. don’t have the resources to take these standardized The pandemic has practically upended the tests multiple times to achieve the most impressive college entrance exam industry, making a scores. number of colleges shift to the test-optional policy.

Most admission offices did agree that test-optional This year, a staggering 75 percent of four-year colpolicies would make their institutions more open to leges and universities will not require SAT or ACT lower income and underrepresented students. This scores for the 2021-22 admissions cycle. Before, looks like good news, sure, but it worries many colmany colleges and universities were forced to suslege officials about student success since it’s harder to pend the requirement for these tests due to limited predict student success outcomes without being able testing ability in 2020 because of Covid-19, but many to evaluate their standardized test scores. of these schools have now decided to extend this polGoing test-optional may be an easy way to claim icy, with some of them possibly making the switch equal opportunities for all permanent schoolwide. student admissions, but unTop educational institutions fortunately socioeconomic in the country, like the Ivy The test-optional policy status influences all eleLeague Universities, adopted ments of college admissions, made it so that these temporary test-optional polischools’ applications were not just test-scores. cies, and the vast majority For example, a Stanford have still kept them for this frenzied with students study found that admissions upcoming cycle. Most of officers respond more favorthe time, higher education taking their shot at schools ably to essays by students institutions like the Ivies are they never thought from wealthier households. a case of follow-the-leader, they’d get accepted to.

The numbers tell the story as so when all of the universidata shows that Georgetown ties in the Ivy League anonly admitted 7.34% of earnounced they wouldn’t rely applicants that didn’t have quire test scores within the test scores. same month of each other, it wasn’t a surprise. This So, their appearances don’t exactly translate into same pattern also occurred with nationally ranked libmeaningful change in the admissions process making eral arts schools like Williams College and Amherst “optional” feel more like “preferred.” If colleges were College. truly committed to being as unbiased as possible in The test-optional policy made it so that these the admissions process, they would want to adopt a schools’ applications were frenzied with students tak“test-blind” policy and not look at test scores at all. ing their shot at schools they never thought they’d get After all this information you’re probably thinking: accepted to. what now?

Schools like Columbia’s applications were up by as Well, what I’ll advise you to do is to prepare for and much as 51% in the past year. It also created a record take said standardized tests, just like how you would low acceptance rate for many institutions, especially if it were actually required for all colleges. You never the Ivies, making it seem more intimidating for stuknow; if you go into the test with no expectations, you dents to apply in the upcoming years. could surprise yourself.

For many students across the country, these standardNot only that, but now colleges have indicated there ized tests were a way for them to stand out amongst

By LAURA SILENZIO ‘23 Opinion Editor

S

Students open their SAT test booklet to find an overwhelming layout of answer bubbles found in the depths of their worst nightmares.

is a much heavier reliance on high school transcripts and grade-point average, meaning it’s more important than ever to get your GPA as high as possible. Your high school performance will show your work ethic.

It’s also important you do as many clubs that you are interested in, so the school can see your passions and how much you’re willing to commit to it.

You also don’t want to spread yourself out too thin; if you’re thinking of adding multiple things to your plate, think of how this may affect your other commitments. Remember, it’s mostly about quality not quantity.

With all that being said, say you do poorly on the SAT or ACT and sending in your scores would most likely be worse than not, you are able to opt out of sending your test scores to specific colleges.

Though, it is very important to evaluate the places you’re applying to vs. your scores, and if your extra-

Photo courtesy of Pixabay.com

curriculars and GPA can compensate for the scores you’re not sending. Plus, colleges are still encouraging students to submit their scores, especially if they already have them, making it clear that they do value these scores in some sort of capacity.

This begs the question, “How much is this policy really helping us as students?”

There’s the obvious conclusion that you wouldn’t feel obligated to take the SATs, but it’s difficult to truly know how your choice affects the way they decide for your application.

When you look back after being rejected, you’d have to wonder if sending your test scores could’ve gotten you accepted. At least, that would be my overthinking brain, but to each their own.

Investments for Dummies 101: think ‘diversified’

By TIANA CYRELSON ‘22 Media Editor

F

or new investors, the stock market can be scary. It can be challenging to know which stocks to invest in, which to drop, and when to do all of it. Mr. Sherman teaches a full-year investment course for students interested in learning and covering taxes to day trading.

As Eastern’s only Investments teacher, Mr. Sherman was asked which stocks he is investing in currently, and which ones he would recommend.

While Mr. Sherman may be the Investments teacher, these stock suggestions are for informational purposes only.

One of the first lessons in Sherman’s class is that each investor should do their own research and analysis before making any decisions.

That being said, here is Sherman’s list of 5 recommended stocks.

“This is a tough question to answer,” Sherman says, “because I have many Mr. Sherman, Eastern’s investments teacher, recommends a “diversified” portfolio of stocks for personal investment.

Photo by Tiana Cyrelson ‘22, Canva.com different investment accounts, each with as his “Workhorse.” Sherman was lucky not for the faint of heart, as they are a very out again when it bounces back.” a different purpose.

The fifth and final stock Sherman would Some are for retirement, others are for enough to get into Sherwin-Williams early, young company with volatile price swings. fun, and I even have an investment account about 13 years ago. The value was less than However, the payoff would be worth it if it recommend is Zoom. Although it has not been as successful since October 2020, that I manage for my daughter, who is one $20 a share and has had continual growth pans out.” since then, recently surpassing $700/share.

The fourth company comes with a dis- Sherman believes that there is a potential year old.”

Sherman recommends a diversified pro- In addition, it completed a 3-for-1 stock claimer from Sherman. “Let me start by need for more virtual learning with school file, complete with retirement savings: mu- split earlier this year. “This yielded me saying you should never invest more than starting back up.

He also believes more companies will tual funds, index funds, and ETFs. Along three times my number of shares,” he said, you are willing to lose in any single investwith “fun” stocks: blue chip, growth, in- “and the stock has continued to grow, cur- ment, especially one as EXTREMELY purchase subscriptions to Zoom for their rently sitting just shy of $300.”

RISKY as Dogecoin.” employees who are now working remotely. come, penny stocks, and crypto.

The third is Athira Pharma, a clinicalDogecoin, different from Bitcoin, is riski- “I’m betting the stock bounces back over First on the list is Twitter. Sherman describes it as a “relatively safe investment stage therapeutics company developing er but will achieve more of a profit than the the next 12 months and settles in around with steady growth potential over two therapies for neurological diseases like other crypto coins. In addition, there is un- $350-400/share.”

With each of these recommendations, years.” The stock keeps his portfolio mov- Alzheimer’s. Sherman calls it a “risky in- limited DOGE, so the “HODL” or “Hold ing in the right direction but doesn’t have vestment with ten times large growth po- On for Dear Life” aspect is less of a fac- Sherman recommends caution and pertor. In other words, the idea of “ignore the sonal research, but he encourages students particularly huge returns. “I don’t see my- tential.”

He doesn’t expect to see a profit from this volatility and hold” is not applicable. Sher- to begin learning about investments, which self holding onto this stock for many more until January 2023, when data from clini- man says he doesn’t have a lot in DOGE, stands as a jumping-off point. years.”

Next up is Sherwin-Williams, described cal trials come back. “This investment is but he’ll “jump back in when it dips and

Features

6 The Voyager

Lockers: Decoration Only?

By TIMUR MARKOWITZ ‘24 Staff Reporter

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ockers have been a major part of high school for as long as anyone can remember.

They are in almost every teen show or movie, regardless of when or where they take place. However, at Eastern Regional High School, a majority of students have elected not to use their lockers due to how much of an inconvenience they are.

The Voyager staff conducted a poll of 103 Eastern students on whether lockers are necessary. Only 11.7 percent of students choose to use their lockers on a daily basis, despite 53.4 percent of students knowing where their lockers are located.

Some students don’t even know their locker numbers or locker codes due to the low frequency at which they are used.

In fact, only 35 percent of students know their locker combinations and 62.1 percent of students have never even opened their lockers.

With more activities moving online, the concept of taking notes in a notebook or having a folder used for more than one occasional paper a week is alien to many students. As a result, folders, binders, and notebooks have been rendered partially useless.

Most work is on the iPad, making lockers less of a necessity because students aren’t carrying around multiple binders and textbooks. The minimal paper work assigned to students doesn’t take up much room, and fits in a backpack.

Now, it seems as though lockers have no real use apart from wasting space in small hallways. Only 23.5 percent of students think lockers are necessary, while 74 percent say they would prefer if space taken up by lockers was used alternatively.

Backpacks enable people to bring their supplies from class to class without using their lockers, and the commodities that lockers offer don’t outweigh the inconveniences they possess.

While the ECCRSD Pupil Right of Privacy Agreement guarantees that students have lockers and desks for storage, this rule was created in 2003, far before the use of iPads became commonplace for students in school. Lockers are less necessary than they once were as educational institutions become less dependent on paper.

These numbers show the ways in which students no longer require lockers at school, due to the inconvenience of being late outweighing the positives of having a storage space for supplies.

With more activities moving online, the concept of taking notes in a notebook or having a folder used for more than one occasional paper a week is alien to many students.

Fall 2021

Freshman Basirah Corbett-Collier unlocks a locker in the 200 Hallway.

Photo by Andrew Shinkle ‘22

Alternative Thanksgiving Options

T

By ANNA LANGAN ‘22 Staff Reporter

The classic “Thanksgiving Dinner” needs a revamp from the un-friendly traditions.

Photo by Sabrina Ripke - Pixabay

hanksgiving. “Turkey Day.” A traditional American holiday.

When Thanksgiving comes to mind, it can be assured that most people think of the classics. A table complete with a roast turkey, stuffing, pies, cranberry sauces, macaroni and cheese, mashed potatoes, and an abundance of warm, filling side dishes comes to mind almost immediately at the mention of the fall holiday.

However, as time goes on, this traditional meal is becoming less common. As more people venture out of traditional diets for their religions, health necessities, or personal beliefs, the classic “Thanksgiving Dinner” is in much need of a revamp.

As a vegetarian of three years, I can definitely say that this Thanksgiving upgrade is much needed.

The most important Thanksgiving element has always been the turkey throughout American tradition. But Turkey is simply not viable to people who have gone vegan, vegetarian, or are observing certain religious specificities. It’s also an extremely expensive meat as time progresses and demand and inflation increase.

In fact, according to Rhode Island News Station WPRI, “On average 46 million turkeys are killed for the Thanksgiving holiday each year. This number results in Americans spending over $604 million on this traditional din-

bussing to an elementary school, how will you make sure that the young grades keep their masks on? Some drivers also quit simply because they would rather stay home than drive a bunch of rowdy children.

In the beginning of this school year, Philadelphia had such a limited number of drivers that a bus company stopped picking up kids. Parents had to transport their kids to school.

Another school district in Philly is offering to pay parents $300.00 a month to take their children to and from school.

Parents who only take their kids to school and have them use township provided busses in the afternoon will get $150.00 a month for their contributions.

Across the nation, nearly 80 percent of different school districts have reported that they don’t have enough bus drivers. A school in Philadelphia even reported that they are now starting to ask the government for help.

Many schools reported that on the second day of their school year, a good percent of the students were either late and got tardied or just did not show up at all.

During my first few months at Eastern, I’ve had a few different friends come into school late and tell me that their bus forgot to get them this morning or that it just didn’t come at all. Even my little brother who started his first year at Voorhees Middle School, was “forgotten” on his first day. The bus didn’t come to his bus stop, so he ended up being late on his first day.

My experience with transportation at Eastern has been different. My bus comes at roughly 6:45 a.m every morning, and, if I’m being honest, I have only taken the bus two times this year.

The first time I took the bus on the first day of school I was so nervous. I walked onto the bus with my backpack and my soccer bag and as soon as I stepped into the aisle, I couldn’t find any available seats.

nertime main dish.” That is millions of lives and millions of dollars just for one “traditional” meal. For many people, this is simply not worth it.

Luckily, recent technological advances have left people with a fan-favorite meat substitute: Tofurkey. This is a meat substitute made out of wheat and tofu. Tofurkey is often served with a stuffing made of grain, and it’s sold in pre-made loaves, most of which are complete with the stuffing.

All that’s left is for you to bake it, and then you’re complete with the perfect Thanksgiving feast. This is a viable alternative for anyone; it reduces the amount of time and stress spent on perfecting a turkey, as well as being very environmentally friendly.

Thanksgiving isn’t the only holiday that can benefit from a revamp; vegetarian and vegan meat substitutes exist for almost every meat you could dream of: sausage, steak, chicken, burgers, nuggets, and infinite sandwich varieties have sprouted up incredibly fast as years go on.

While I’m not suggesting that you completely convert to being vegan or vegetarian, swapping out meat for vegetarian options is incredibly beneficial for not only your body, but the world around you.

And not just that, but they taste incredible too. So, don’t be afraid to take that leap and reach for a new meal, whether that be anything from Tofurkey to vegan chicken nuggets. You never know what you’re missing out on!

Why are Schools having a hard time transporting Kids?

By RYLEE PEARLMAN ‘25 Staff Reporter

D

uring the pandemic, our lives all got put on hold.

Everything we considered normal was shut down and not accessible to the public. Kids were no longer allowed at school, and adults were unable to go into work.

Technology took a larger role as everything went virtual. Kids were attending school in their living rooms on a laptop, and their parents were at work upstairs.

Soon enough this became the new normal and life had completely changed.

With school virtual, bus drivers were no longer needed. But now that school is back in-person, there’s a higher demand for them, and they’re not coming back.

Many were scared to catch the virus in a very enclosed space. Others were concerned about the mask mandate. When

Not only was I internally freaking out, but the bus driver started to drive while I was still standing up trying to find an open seat, making me even more stressed out.

Finally, I plopped down in the first seat I could find which already had another boy sitting there.

Now, I look back and regret not asking if I could simply share a seat with the guy, but I was already freaked out enough and couldn’t risk the idea of him saying no.

Recently, I have been reflecting on the things that we had before COVID. The simple has now become complicated, and I think that we all take things for granted.

Although the shortage of drivers is affecting the way we get to and from school, it is understandable why some of the drivers don’t feel comfortable. In the end, all we can do is hope that the solution will get resolved and kids will be able to get to school on time, and be able to sit comfortably on their busses.

7 The Voyager

Features

Fall 2021

Eastern grad’s Feature Film Debut “Hideout” wins Awards was little, around 11 or 12, that I’m going to do this for the rest of my life.”

This passion was cultivated in the halls ’ve been making films forof Eastern, where he was pushed by ever; since I was a little teachers to further his innovative writing. boy,” says Eastern Gradu“It’s a difficult thing to step out of the ate Kris Roselli, director of box when you’re writing,” Roselli dehis feature film debut: Hideout. scribes, “but it’s really important.”

During the final stretch of his senior year, Roselli graduated in 2005, trading the Roselli was always at work, from confighalls of EHS for those of Full Sail Uniuring lighting for the school musical or versity, where he graduated in 2009 with writing scripts in Mr. Kemery’s Creative a Bachelor’s in Film Production.

Writing class, his passion for filmmaking Thus, the long and difficult journey of an grew exponentially. aspiring film director began. He contin“Way back when, I would play with my ued to write, now with seven completed action figures, and do a lot of drawings, so feature film scripts on his shelf.

I was always being creative,” says RoselDespite his passion, the road was not alli. “I remember having a thought when I ways smooth.

“It’s mostly all setback,” Roselli warns. “It’s important for aspiring filmmakers and actors to know that it is not all fun and games.”

The payoffs for the aspiring are few and far between, and Roselli acknowledges the discouraging nature of the field.

“But I think the people that want to do this, It’s just something that you need to do. I’d rather struggle and be able to create my art.”

Roselli continued to write and direct, hoping one day to hit success. Along the way, he realized the importance of failure. While discouraging, it is necessary. It is better to have an imperfect first draft than nothing at all.

“The first draft is always rough, but that’s okay. Just write the first draft, and then get onto the second draft. You want to get all your ideas on the page Hideout can be found worldwide on Amazon Prime first.”

Four years ago, after and eleven other easily accessible platforms. only two drafts, Roselli Photo supplied by Kris Roselli

finished the script for a horror film he titled “Hideout.” With this script, Roselli found success.

He attributes this to the script’s potential, and, most importantly, the story.

“This script would be entertaining on a smaller budget or a multimillion dollar budget,” he says.

“You could have A-list celebrities or people you’ve never seen before, and that’s why I believe this script is special. If the story is there, it’ll be good.”

The film soon started production, and Roselli took on the challenge of casting his first feature.

Using the internet, he held open Eastern alumni Kris Roselli laughs on set auditions for actors all over the of filming his feature film debut, “Hideout.”

Photo supplied by Kris Roselli country.

Actress, and Breakout Performance, re“If I want to talk to an actor again, it’s spectively. At the same festival, the film either something I was looking for with won both Best Ensemble Cast and audithe character or something they bring to ence choice for Best Feature Overall. the table that I wasn’t expecting.”

Roselli’s years of effort have paid off After reviewing an actor’s video, he with this film, and he believes this is bewould place them in a Zoom call with cause of his balance between perseverother actors, watching them bounce lines ance and patience. off one another.

“You have to have an equal amount of The movie takes place in a house where perseverance and patience. If you have all of the characters are trapped together. too much or too little of either one, you’re Because of this, it was important to Roseljust going to fall apart,” he said. li that the actors were Now, the film can be able to not only work found worldwide on AmaThis passion was cultogether but play off zon Prime and eleven other tivated in the halls of of each other as well. easily accessible platforms.

“The most important Eastern, where he was Despite the struggle, pushed by teachers to part is seeing if they Roselli is proud of his tefurther his innovative can take direction and nacity and wants to extend if they have a good writing. this lesson to the students personality. I’d much at his alma mater: rather take someone that’s a good actor “If you believe in what you’re doing in that’s excited about being on the project, your heart, then don’t give up on your the movie, than someone who’s a great acdreams or yourself, even when you feel tor who isn’t very pleasant to be around.” like everyone is against you. I’ve been The film came out on November 9th and following my dreams for over 20 years found the success he hoped for. and I will tell you that they do come true It was nominated for seven awards at the if you work really hard at them. You have First Glance Film Festival, including Best to believe that nothing is truly impossible Horror, Best Director, and Best Narrative. and be determined to overcome any obChris Wolfe, Kate Lyons, and Bryan Enstacles to achieve your goals.” right were nominated for Best Actor, Best

work, and allow you to appreciate the greater community you’re a part of.

2. Prioritize Self Care This one should be self-evident: prioritize yourself, and your happiness.

Make time to read a book, meditate, take a walk, observe your surroundings, sleep, or binge a good show with your siblings.

Think about how any decisions or changes that you are planning on making will affect you and your well-being.

Self-care looks different for everybody.

Do what works for you.

3. Limit Your Social Media!

I think everyone knew this was coming.

Social media has proven to waste lots of precious time. It’s surprising how much time you gain simply by limiting your screen time.

This is especially helpful for those of you who are procrastinators (no more staying up past midnight to do your homework).

So, instead of scrolling through Instagram, take some time and focus on yourself. Do activities that will help you clear your mind, such as meditating and exercising. Most importantly, get an extra hour or two of sleep.

4. Set Attainable Goals Stop being so hard on yourself. Set goals that you know you’ll be able to achieve.

Preparing for college can seem daunting, but it doesn’t mean you should be overextending yourself. This doesn’t mean limit yourself; it just means you should know when to take a step back and focus on your existing workload.

Sometimes, setting too many diffi-

lead to burnout and stress. cult goals can take a toll on your mental health. Sacrificing your mental health is High school is an emotional roller coastjust not worth it in the long run. er for everyone. The best way to take care Try your best. Your best is enough. of ourselves is to focus on the things we 5. Comparing (almost) Never Helps can control.

From the dawn of time, humans have Remember to enjoy the four-year jourcompared themselves to others. ney because, at the end of the day, we are Unless you’re looking at others and in high school to learn inside and outside learning from them, comparing yourself of the classroom. Make sure that you to your peers can be toxic and deteriorate are constantly reflecting on the insights your self-worth and mental health signifiyou’ve gained and are open to the lessons cantly. high school has yet to teach you.

Everyone is on their own path. Comparing yourself to others just doesn’t make sense because you are your own person.

Everyone has a different story, which you may or may not know.

Everyone has had their ups and downs. Comparing yourself to your peers can skew your perception of reality.

6. Do What You Can Do. Do What You Like.

High school activities and clubs can get overwhelming. Overcommitting to too many clubs can be draining and counterproductive.

Do the things that bring you joy — not the activities that you think look impressive. At the end of the day, you should be proud of the hours you’re devoting to your hobbies and activities.

Make sure that whatever you choose to do is within your capability Otherwise, devoting yourself to too many extracurriculars may High school is an emotional roller coaster for everyone.

Shreya Komar ‘22/Canva.com

By TIANA CYRELSON ‘22 Media Editor

“I

6 Mental Health hacks to help you ace this school Year

By SHREYA KOMAR ‘22 Staff Reporter

Y

up, you know it! It’s back-toschool season, and the world couldn’t be a more exciting place.

With enticing posters of backto-school supplies, notebooks, clothes, and even fitness routines, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. It’s often a misconception that one has to reinvent themselves for a new school year and make monumental changes in the way they look or behave, but it’s the small changes that go a long way.

One of the aspects of our health that we often neglect is mental health. Keeping good mental health is important, not only to keep our minds healthy and calm, but also to prevent burnout as the school year drags on. So, here are six mental health hacks to help you get through this school year.

1. Build Meaningful Relationships Building meaningful relationships is one of the most important ways that you can keep good mental health.

As humans, we like to be part of a community. Without family or friends, we lack the essential support systems and people who will be there for us when we need them.

So, in short, meet new people, have insightful discussions, and make sure to connect with your family because those are the moments that have the capacity to fade the anxiety that comes with school

Spirit

8 Fall 2021

Hippie Day

Spirit Week 2021 Winners: Class of 2023

Country/Country Club Day

Week

The Voyager 9

Academic Challenge

Field Day Events

Homecoming Game Victory Homecoming Court

Opinion

The Voyager 10

Fall 2021

C

oming into this new school year, most of us expected some big changes from last year’s Zoom extravaganza. We’re now set free from our cage-like bedrooms, and it’s good to be back—in some ways more than others.

One of the biggest reasons students wanted to be back in-person was to be able to talk to their friends again, but the split-lunch formerly implemented by the administration made it difficult to get a full sense of freedom. The entire point of the split-lunch was to slow the spread of COVID-19 throughout the school, but the rules were contradictory and not beneficial to anyone.

Barely anybody prefers the split-lunch over Lunch-andLearn, and it’s not hard to understand why. Under the split-lunch rules, students were forced to sit on one side of the lunch table, and confined to the same space for the entire period. Students couldn’t even leave to go to the bathroom.

Sitting on one side of the table doesn’t make much sense, because people are still in close contact anyway. It doesn’t keep them from turning and talking, which defeats the whole purpose. The one-location rule does more harm than good, since walking around in the hallways helps to alleviate the massivelycrowded cafeterias and gyms.

The split-lunch schedule also made it increasingly difficult to see teachers during school time.

Lunch-and-Learn is a valuable asset for us, as we have almost an hour for eating, studying, extra help, labs, club meetings, and catching up on homework.

Without this luxury, many students struggled juggling all of their academics and extracurriculars, since many clubs and

activities were forced to take place after school.

The administration attempted to solve this overbearing problem with the after-school Zoom Office Hours; however, students pointed out that they couldn’t even make it home on time in order to participate, since it runs from 2:10 to 2:40.

This left many students in disarray, as they could only really sneak in a question or two with their teachers in passing, with not enough time to address more in-depth questions.

Thankfully, Lunch and Learn was brought back in late October. We haven’t gone back to exactly the same rules as the pre-2020 Lunch and Learn, but beggars can’t be choosers.

For starters, the lunch time has almost doubled, which gives us considerably more time to actually sit and be with our friends.

Also, students are free to see their teachers for meetings and extrahelp during either Lunch A or Lunch B. Overall, Lunch-andLearn has been an improvement over the split-lunch.

Finally, the last main issue relates to the new rule about the period directly after lunch.

If you’re late to that class, the teacher is supposed to shut the door and hand you a lunch detention. The problem is, now that there’s even more students in the hallways at once, hallways get easily cramped.

Eastern Regional High School 1401 Laurel Oak Road Voorhees, NJ 08043 856-784-4441 www.voyager-online.org YouTube: ehs voyager Twitter: @ehsvoyager Instagram: @ehsvoyager

Advisors:

Walter Bowne and George Kemery

Editorial Staff Andrew Shinkle: Editor-in-Chief Leah Snyderman: Co-Editor-in-Chief Arianna Morales: Associate Editor-in-Chief Jenna Preston: Associate Editor-in-Chief

And some people are terribly-slow walkers to begin with.

Complicating matters further is our inability to leave the room we eat lunch in. For example, if students who eat in Gym 1 have a class in the 90 hallway, they may as well give up on trying to arrive on-time.

Teachers should be lenient with lateness to class after lunch. If a student is ten minutes late, that’s a different story, but if they’re thirty seconds late, it shouldn’t be counted against them.

Getting lunch detention for an insignificant amount of lateness is unfair, and serves as an obstacle towards learning.

If the current Lunch-and-Learn let students freely roam the halls and provided them with ample time to travel between classes, some of its most detrimental aspects would be cleared up. The schedule now is much better than the splitlunch, but still far from perfect.

At Eastern, we’re learning how to become adults in the world, and some necessary adjustments to our hour of freedom each day would facilitate this process.

Staff Editorial

Antonia Zong: Managing Editor Laura Silenzio: Opinion Editor Madison Jolley: News Editor Cassidy Golin: Features Editor Matt Chowansky: Entertainment Editor Joseph Loverdi: Sports Editor Tiana Cyrelson: Media Editor Alana McLeod: Art Editor Mahawa Bangoura: Arts and Culture Editor

Cartoon by Sophia Gambescia ‘23

Lunch and Learn returns to fanfare from students, but improvements should be made

The Sophomore Slump more year, but I am not feeling too great about the academic part,” sophomore Addison Koophomore year: the zuch said. bridging period be“It is a lot harder than freshtween the bright and man year, but maybe that’s due bushy-tailed freshman to in person school,” sophomore year, and the stress-filled juAlanna Stein said. nior year, where it feels like the “On most days good grades weight of the world is on your motivate me,” sophomore Skyshoulders. Sophomore year is lar Connor said. the forgotten middle-child year “I feel very motivated because when it comes to high school.

I want to make sure I have the Students are cynical, with a best future and want to keep my sense of imgrades up,” sophmature sar“I feel very motivated omore Leilani casm develbecause I want to make Johnson said. oped from the sure I have the best “This year is all harsh realities future and want to keep about proving to of the world. my grades up.” myself that I am High school a good student, isn’t the pereven though I don’t learn as fast fect movie-like experience they as the other kids.

I want to be were expecting. The unexpected known as Leilani Joy Johnson, workload, difficulties finding not as a label.” your crowd, and just being a Although the Class of 2024 tired, burnt out high schooler all may not be the most well rested, contribute. or the most filled with school So, how are this year’s sophospirit, it is clear that they are mores doing? working to get back into the “I am very tired,’’ said sophorhythm of a regular school year. more class president Aden Falk.

Sophomore year is a struggle, “It’s been difficult to start gettrying to navigate through the ting into the school year, but I sea of fellow sophomores, chalfeel as though we all needed this lenging classes, and working push back to reality,” sophothrough the stress of high school. more Kejal Shah said.

So, next time you see a sopho“Most of the time I feel motimore, make sure to give them vated, but I do tend to procrassome recognition.

Sophomores tinate a lot,” sophomore Lorena deserve to be recognized, in this Jimenez said. crucial bridging period that will “I like the social part of sophoshape their high school career.

By KAITLIN SWIFT ‘24 Staff Reporter

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Staff Reporters Dawn Betner, Basirah CorbettCollier, Maya Dunkelman, Kyle Goldstein, Jacob Gollin, Miraal Halim, Shreya Komar, Jordan Kramer, Aiden Kremer Olivia Marcantuono, Anna Langan, Lan Anh Nguyen, Rylee Pearlman, Molly Smith Michael Sorenson, Alanna Stein, Kaitlin Swift, Marcela Torres, Nick Vitale, Mark Wang, Timur Markowitz, Julia Zeidler

Sophomores Kaitlin Swift and Lelani Johnson pose in front of the sophomore Spirit Week wall.

Photo supplied by Kaitlin Swift ‘24

Opinion

Fall 2021

How COVID Changed Social Media

By JENNA PRESTON ‘22 Associate Editor-In-Chief

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he COVID-19 pandemic has impacted my perspective on life in many ways. When the virus was originally spreading, I underestimated how life changing those first few days off from school would be. As a sixteen-year-old trying to enjoy her sophomore year, I thought it would all go back to normal easily. But it wasn’t long before those close to me became seriously sick of it. I couldn’t ignore how serious it was any longer, and I tried my best to do everything that could protect myself and my family.

I was going through a huge adjustment because of all of the changes that were taking place in my life. I started paying close attention to what was going on in the country and packing my brain with the alarming amount of terrible things I saw on the news. It was nearly impossible not to imagine the worst-case scenario. What if my grandparents were to get the virus? What about my parents? Can I even be near my friends and family?

The stores were closed, school doors shut, nothing was open.

Everything seemed like a nightmare that was impossible to wake up from.

We tend to learn and grow the most when we’re forced to live and work in different ways. This pandemic has forced us to be pushed out of our comfort zone without any time to even think or process the changes that were being made so quickly in our lives.

We are all trying to adapt to the devastation and disruption that this pandemic has brought to the world this year. It has brought a lot of bad but I can thankfully say that I’ve found some light in the dark situations.

I’ve been reflecting Twitter sits on a home screen next to on what this year has Facebook. meant for the world Photo by LoboStudioHamburg on Pixabay and for me personally, and there have been line and you might find yourself new perspectives on feeling less alone. Yes, the interlife I’ve developed that I didn’t net can be a very negative and have before. My self reflection empty place, but I’ve tried my has made me question how facbest to limit how much time I tors such as social media, remote spend on it daily and the people schooling, and lack of social life I interact with. with others during those months This year has made me realof quarantine has changed my ize I don’t want negative people mental health and view of everyin my life anymore. We have all one and everything around me. already faced so much negativEveryone has faced some ity, so there’s no reason to hold type of challenge this onto people that are only bringyear that has changed ing you down in life. Surround them. yourself with people that appreciate you and want to support you, or even be that person More than anything, it has for yourself. That’s what we all changed the way I value friendneed this year. ships, myself, and others. It has Despite the difficulty, such made me realize that I’m not changes have prompted new alone in this world and we’ve all outlooks, new hobbies, and new been through something that noways of living.

Families and body knows about. communities have also slowed Although there were times that down and come to appreciate I thought social media was abthe pleasures of spending time solutely horrible and ruining my together. mental health during quarantine, Everyone has faced some type I was able to find some good. of challenge this year that has I’ve spent time reading stories changed them. Whether it was about the lives of others during minor or major, it’s still somethis time and I’ve realized that thing that has changed the way I’m not alone. We all are able to you are. share our stories or struggles on-

The 3rd Vaccine Dose and Booster Shot

By ALANNA STEIN ‘24 Staff Reporter

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eflecting on a year ago today, it feels like a relief to be on the other side of the story. Last October, many of us were sitting in our bedrooms “attentively listening” to teachers’ lectures through an iPad screen. We were confined to our homes like a prisoner to their jail cell. Students throughout the region wondered alike when we would finally return to in-person school.

At first, the COVID-19 vaccine was a mere blip in our imagination, a “happily ever after” to our seven-month fantasy. Though at the time, the vaccine seemed like an unreachable goal to pursue; the following few months proved that theory wrong.

On December 11th, 2020, the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) authorized the firstever COVID-19 vaccine. Some considered this an early holiday present!

Before we plead for more, it is imperative to recognize how far we have come.

Today, 57% of Americans are fully vaccinated. 404 million doses of Pfizer, Moderna, and Johnson & Johnson have been administered to the public. Not only did the vaccine provide im-

munity against the Coronavirus, but it also provided a sense of normalcy.

However, the Delta variant ceased our return to a completely normal and maskless life.

The Delta variant is simply a more contagious form of COVID-19. It has the same symptoms and requires the same course of action. Luckily, recent studies concluded that the current vaccine ensures some protection against this variant.

But the talk of multiple variants, including the Delta, has medical professionals questioning if a third dose or booster shot should be implemented.

Similar to an annual flu shot, the booster shot would provide an extra punch against the Coronavirus. The third dose would act similarly except for the fact that it would not be recurring.

According to Medical News Today, the FDA has “authorized the distribution of the third dose and booster shots of both Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines.” So now the real question is, should you get it?

Despite common conceptions, there is no difference between the third dose and the booster shot regarding the substance they inject into your arm. The main difference is who is eligible and when they are eligible.

The third dose is targeted towards those with severe under-

lying health conditions, such as transplant patients or individuals who struggle with immune deficiency. These specific patients struggle to produce antibodies from mRNA vaccines. The third dose helps the patient acquire the desired amount of antibodies which the initial doses are not capable of.

The booster shot is recommended due to the concern that the average individuals’ immunity to certain viruses tends to wane over time. The booster shot, which is separate from one’s initial vaccine, further protects against new strains. The booster shot is similar to a white shoe: once the shoe gets dirty, it requires cleaning, but it will always remain somewhat white.

The initial vaccine will always provide protection, but you need to “polish” your immunity with a booster shot every once in a while.

All in all, you should 100% get the third dose or booster shot if and only if you meet the respective requirements. By getting vaccinated once, twice, or three times, you are not only protecting yourself, but you are also protecting others.

We finally made it to the last chapter, the actual “happily ever after.” However, we must continue pushing through these uncertain times with optimism, intelligence, and selflessness.

The Voyager 11

Editor’s Picks: What Should be Added to the English Curriculum?

Andrew Shinkle ‘22 The Road by Cormac McCarthy

Antonia Zong ‘22 Everything I Never Told You by Celeste Ng

Tiana Cyrelson ‘22 The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky

Matt Chowansky ‘22 The Four Winds by Kristen Hannah

Leah Snyderman ‘22 Start with Why by Simon Sinek

12 The Voyager

Short-e-torials

Opinion

Stuck ‘till 7:15

By TIANA CYRELSON ‘22 Media Editor Since coming back to school this year, the students have noticed a few major changes from pre-COVID times. By far, the most complained about has been the split lunch situation. Aside from that, however, students are unhappy with the new rules implemented at the beginning of the day.

From getting off their bus at 7:00 until 7:15, students are forced to stay in either the 20 or 500 cafeterias. While this is only 15 minutes, it has been reported as a major inconvenience.

Not only does this mean that students can not socialize in the morning, but they are also unable to visit their lock-

ers or a teacher they need to see. With very little free time throughout the day, students would often use this time to run any errands necessary throughout the school, such as printing something in the Learning Center or returning a book in the Media Center.

This change has not only proven to be an inconvenience but an unnecessary one as well. These 15 minutes do not help with COVID contact tracing and are therefore pointless. 15 minutes of unmonitored students wandering the hall is no more dangerous than 100 students sitting unmasked in the cafeteria, eating breakfast.

The student body overwhelmingly dislikes this change and insists that things go back to how they were.

Zodiac Killer Revealed

By LAURA SILENZIO ‘23 Opinion Editor A cold case specialist team, more than 40 former law enforcement investigators, journalists, and military intelligence officers say that they’ve now identified the true identity of one of the most prolific serial murderers in America: the infamous Zodiac Killer.

The Zodiac case has been widely publicized since it took place in the 1960s. Everyone’s obsession with the twisted, gruesome events has turned it into an entire genre of entertainment like books, movies, and documentaries over the years. These famous complex cyphers and brutal slayings have been connected to five murders; claims of 37 murders by the killer himself have been confirmed, but the actual identity of the Zodiac has gone unsolved for over 50

years. However, things have changed.

After years and years of digging, new forensic evidence and photos have been brought to light by Gary Francis Poste’s darkroom. Among this evidence are deciphering letters sent by the Zodiac that revealed him as the killer, but you wouldn’t be able to solve it without his full name, taking out the letters of his name to reveal the true message.

After seeing the evidence and even just reading about signs of serial killers, many in his social circle began to believe that Gary could very well have been the killer. Their next door neighbors’ daughter, who wishes to remain nameless, said that as she’s grown up the signs became more and more obvious since when she was a kid; he used to babysit her and says that he used to teach her how to shoot guns all the time in their backyard.

Fall 2021

Out of the closet and into the World

By MIRAAL HALIM ‘25 Staff Reporter

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or many, coming out is terrifying, especially when you have the whole world watching you.

It was no different for Demi Lovato, JoJo Siwa, and many others celebrities in the public eye. More often than not, people don’t understand why coming out is so scary. There’s no way of knowing what others are going to say and there’s no way of knowing if you will be accepted or not.

JoJo Siwa once said that it was easier to come out to the entire world than to her closest friends and family. That makes a lot of sense. In the long run, all you want is for your family to accept you, but you never know what you’re going to get. Siwa initially came out as queer.

Being queer is a general classification for not being straight, but not knowing your exact sexual indentity. The singer later came out as pansexual.

“Technically I would say that I am pansexual because that’s how I have always been. My whole life is just like, my human is my human,” Siwa stated in an interview.

JoJo faced so much hate and lost many fans after coming out. On the contrary, she gained many new fans from the LGBTQ+ community. So many people who had been silently struggling finally felt heard.

Siwa became a safe haven for them. This all began when a relatable young person in the media figured out who she is.

Hayley Kiyoko is also someone to whom so many people in the LGBTQ+ community admire. She initially found fame with her role in the 2011 movie Lemonade Mouth, but after coming out as lesbian, she started releasing music that embodied her truest self. Her song “Girls Like Girls” made her heard as an artist and more respected in the music industry. Because Hayley came out, she was able to be her truest self.

In 2020, pop star Harry Styles made headlines as he was the first male on the cover of Vogue to wear a dress. The formerly known womanizer from the boyband One Direction surprised fans by sharing his more feminine side and experimenting with clothing. Styles was engulfed with both scrutiny and love when the Vogue issue was released. Fans either loved it or hated it; there was no inbetween. When asked about his sexuality in the past, Styles put it plainly, he isn’t straight. He can have a girlfriend and still be queer. Styles proved that your sexuality is your business and that you can choose how much you want to share with the world.

Your gender identity and sexuality isn’t anyone’s business. If someone does come out to you, you should feel honored that they trusted you enough to tell you because it is so personal. Siwa admitted that she knew she wasn’t straight for years, but she gained the confidence to tell the world. If your loved one or friend or literally anyone comes out to you, be supportive and kind, that is all they want.

Celebrities in the LGBTQ community are an inspiration to fans. Stars like Demi, JoJo, Hayley, and Harry showed their vulnerability and bravery which has greatly affected their fans.

Coming out is always terrifying and there is no way to avoid that. Sometimes you won’t be accepted and it sucks, but if you have a good support group, they’ll love and support you no matter what. If you don’t have a good support system, remember that the whole LGBTQ+ community has your back.

Eastern offers a support group for people that are trying to figure out their gender and sexuality identity. Email Mr. Fulton for more information on the Gender and Sexuality Alliance Club. Always remember, you are who you are and nobody can change that.

The Texas “abortion law” prevents Roe v. Wade’s constitutional right to an Abortion

By LAURA SILENZIO ‘23 Opinion Editor

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he Texas government has banned abortion without actually banning abortion.

How? Simple. They made getting an abortion a disadvantage in every way possible and an advantage for people who want to sue them for it on countless technicalities, making thousands of pregnant Texans lose their constitutionallyprotected access to abortion.

The law now dramatically expands the entire concept of a civil lawsuit, relying on the initiative of private citizens instead of the government. Abortion patients themselves can’t be sued, but anyone who performs or aids with the abortion — their doctor, an Uber driver, or even their family members — can be sued literally everyone.

The law itself is aimed at preventing providers of abortions from using Roe v.

Wade’s constitutional right to an abortion as justification in court.

Not only that, but there are several provisions that incentivize plaintiffs to file dozens upon dozens of cases. If successful in their suit, plaintiffs will receive a $10,000 cash reward, along with the protection of the law to sue as many people as possible without legal fees, making them ‘modern day bounty hunters’ as said by Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor.

What’s even more radical is that you can able to recoup their costs and attorney sue regardless of whether harm was done fees in addition to the cash reward proto the plaintiff personally. Meaning, you vided to them. could be a total stranger to the defendant They also have heavily restricted other and still have standing in the case. defenses you can use in court. For inThis results from an emerging Repubstance, you can’t argue your belief of the lican influence within state governments, unconstitutionality of the law itself. Howas they find it difficult to prohibit things ever, barring the defense of unconstituthey dislike constitutionally. If the contionality would be difficult to enforce, stitutionally-driven Republican Party will since that’s why the defendant provided go beyond the the abortion in the first Constitution for place. their own perAll of these rules are sonal gain, then generally technicalities to where do their make any type of defense “morals” really by the defendant impossistand? ble, giving them almost no Not only are grounds to defend themthe plaintiffs selves, making it more of incentivized an angry mob with pitchto sue, but deforks and torches than a fendants have fair trial. no protection Thankfully, sexual asfrom multiple sult assailants cannot sue lawsuits for the Texas new “abortion law” over an abortion provided same abortion. heavily restricts any attempt to to that survivor of rape, Fortunately, a get an abortion in the state. but this does not do much, court can’t colsince RAINN, citing a U.S. Photo by Kyle Goldstein ‘24/Canva.com lect relief for Justice Department survey the same abortion more than once, but released in 2020, said 310 out of evnonetheless the prodecure incurs an abunery 10,000 rapes are reported to police. dance of time and money. With that, the That’s about a third. Of those 310, just court can’t award costs or attorney fees 50 lead to arrest, leading to just 25 out back to the defendant, even if they sucof 1,000 rapes resulting in incarceration. cessfully win the lawsuit. This slants the That’s 2.5% of all rapes nationally. Plus, law in the plaintiffs favor since they are an IDVSA study from the University of

Texas reported that more than 90 percent of sexual assault cases in Texas are never reported, and for the states to identify rapists, victims have to come forward, which clearly isn’t probable.

This makes the whole ordeal even more complicated because rapists not being able to sue providers could only really be enforced with the sliver of rapists actually convicted, making it another he-said-shesaid argument on what occurred. Along with that, the law doesn’t prevent other people from suing that same case, even if that pregnancy resulted from a rape or incest.

President Biden said that his administration is committed to protecting and defending the right established nearly five decades ago. They have challenged the statute of the law and reversed the 2018 decision by Trump that disallowed family planning clinics from receiving federal funding if they provide abortion referrals.

As for now, a suit has since been filed by Planned Parenthood, asking the court to declare the abortion law unconstitutional.

A hearing was scheduled, but the panel of judges has held off on the proceedings.

Abortion providers, women’s rights groups, doctors, and even the U.S. Government is partaking in the battle to overturn the law in federal courts. Hopefully, this fight won’t expand farther than it already has. Only time will tell how this human rights brigade will turn out for the state of Texas.

Fall 2021

Entertainment

The Voyager 13

Kasey Musgraves’ 2nd Album, “Star-Crossed”

By JENNA PRESTON ‘22 Associate Editor-in-Chief

“Breadwinner” is certainly one of the album’s best tracks. The opening notes are more pop than country, giving the impression that this is a cheerful acey Musgraves labeled her tune, but the lyrics reveal a different second album Star-Crossed in narrative. Musgraves takes time to speak an interview with Zane Lowe directly to her next partner, laying out as the right blend of current the expectations she has for her future country and pop, but after just one listen, relationships. it’s clear that it’s much more.

Tracks like “Camera Roll” and “Simple Kacey said, “There are certain aspects Times” prove that Kacey Musgraves is of this record that sound a little bit more a very pleasant vocalist. She country, I guess than Golden Hour… but is able to convey legitimate it had more of a foot in country music sounding emotion. Though, I than Star-Crossed.” suppose it would be difficult Golden Hour, her debut album, to not show some powerful didn’t have the typical country sound sentiment here considering that most people are used to hearing in the album’s backstory. today’s music. Fans were concerned Nonetheless, Musgraves that Musgraves would leave her prior manages to hit all of the right country-pop sound when she claimed it notes and confidently carry the would be less country than her previous record along. album..

If you enjoy pop, psychedelic, I anticipate her sophomore album will folk, and even a bit of R&B, have a significant impact on the image of Star-Crossed is a must-listen. country music, since it is one of the most Whether it’s the Spanish guitar progressive, creative, and pro-women in “Gracias a la vida” or the albums I’ve heard this year. current R&B instrumental Kacey’s divorce from her fellow in “If This Was a Movie...”, songwriter ex-husband is reflected Musgraves has proven that she in Star-Crossed. She pours into the can produce in any genre. intricacies of their fading marriage, This is a strong album because Kacey Musgraves’ new album “Star-Crossed” including all of the good and bad that it has some really interesting released on September 10th, 2021. came with it, and the listeners are Photo by Universal Music Group Nashville sonic experimentation from vulnerable with her. We go through the Musgraves. As a pop-country process of Kacey discovering herself as “Star-Crossed,” the album’s title track, singer, it’s amazing to see her show a single woman, as well as supporting portrays the painful story of two lovers vulnerability not just in her lyrics but also others in identifying themselves outside who, despite their best efforts, were in her music style. of their relationships. unable to save their relationship. This Star-Crossed isn’t just a breakup Musgraves does an amazing job song sets the tone for the rest of the album record. It’s about surviving heartache and illustrating the false narratives that come with a melancholy guitar lead. loneliness, as well as growth and progress,

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with relationships, such as how women often feel inferior to their partners and question their role. “How can I be a better woman, or a wife?” she asks in “Good Wife.”

The problem isn’t her role in the marriage or her ability to be a decent wife; it’s their emotional disconnection. You can reminisce about broken relationships and the long-term impact of poor communication through her music.

and it’s all wrapped up in a wonderfully written story. This album shines light on the challenges of balancing a great relationship with a fulfilling career.

Tracklist 1) Star-Crossed

3:19

2) Good Wife

3:51

3) Cherry Blossom

3:04

4) Simple Times

2:47

5) If This Was a Movie...

3:15

6) Justified

3:01

7) Angel

2:20

8) Breadwinner

3:21

9) Camera Roll

2:39

10) Easier Said

3:07

11) Gracias a la Vida

4:32

12) Keep Lookin’ Up

2:46

“Squid Game”: Morals or Survival?

By ANTONIA ZONG ‘22 Managing Editor

light on capitalist exploitation in this small peninsula.

Just as the poor are left fending for themselves at the bottom of the ladder, osing a game of red light green the contestants of “Squid Game” are light isn’t usually followed by a continually faced with deadly challenges gunshot. For the impoverished at the expense of their moral sanity. contenders of Squid Game, Sang-Woo’s decision to replace Ali’s though, the slightest inch of bag of marbles with a bag of pebbles movement equates to instant death. was atrocious in terms of ethics, but By the end of this nine-episode series, understandable in this game of survival. viewers will come to expect a gunshot at Sacrificing morals for survival is an every corner. unfortunate aspect of human reality, and The real question is, can a gunshot really all of the games in Squid Game are proof compare to 50 slaps to the face? Featured of this. in the first episode is acting veteran, Gong As children, the Glass Stepping Stone Yoo, who cheerily approaches the lower Game and the Marbles Game were caste of Seoul, South Korea with a game light-hearted games that would last proposal. until dinnertime. When adults played it Win a round of ddakji, win 100,000 won; however, the nuance of the games became lose a game, win a slap to the face. clear: survive to win.

To an Even a imperfect married “And that’s exactly what this protagonist couple, when Korean drama is: a game. like Seong faced with Gi-Hun, A psychological game wrapped the Marble any amount in clouds of human misfortune.” Game, was of money left only with is welcome the husband amid his rising debts to loan sharks. walking away from the neighborhood set With the expense of his mother’s surgery with his hands covered in the “blood” of lurking at the back of his mind, Gi-Hun his wife. agrees to join a “bigger event” with even As the plot deepened, viewers began to more opportunities in terms of money see an inside operation existing within prizes. the guards of the game: organ trafficking As he is unconsciously transported to a (whether this is worse than manipulating remote island, he and 456 others wake up human lives, you can decide). in “Squid Game.”

This inside operation sent Byeong-gi, And that’s exactly what this korean essential surgeon to the operation, into drama is: a game. A psychological game the games and continually gave hints on wrapped in clouds of human misfortune. how to survive them, ensuring his safety A North Korean refugee, a fallen throughout a good amount of games. university student, a gang leader, or an Isn’t this quite similar to how capitalist unfortunate son and father; this series exploitation looks like in current society? strikes into the core of the wretched lower If an individual with almost no integrity caste of South Korean Society. has deep pockets and holds value to As the episodes roll on, the show sheds higher society, they can “cheat” through

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Netflix’s newest psychological drama “Squid Game” became the first Korean television show to hit #1 in the U.S. Photo from https://pixabay.com/illustrations/ life in the blink of an eye.

On the other hand, an individual filled with potential and integrity might be ignored just because their pockets aren’t as deep.

In a terrifying game of ethics, “Squid Game” shows just how morally wrong humanity is when faced with deadly trials.

No sugar-coating, only gunshots and beautiful schemes of betrayal.

squid-game-tv-show-game-6748048/

Photos from Pixabay

Squid Game characters

Entertainment

14 The Voyager

My Selection - “False Art”

Fall 2021

A song by Ben Kessler

By MAURA SOMERS ‘23 Special to The Voyager Art. A three letter word to describe the essence of life. Art is used to insinuate a thought or feeling through color, music, or even words. It is used to express feeling and emotion. Underneath a veil in art are all things true and allow for feelings of comfort and peace.

Relationships that are formed in life could be viewed as either a masterpiece, or a complete mess. Either way, a relationship is a piece of art created by a bond that is strong enough to withstand obstacles in real life.

In a relationship or not, art is depicted as a truth behind a type of entity, either figurative or physical, that covers up the meaning or message; whether it be a picture, book, relationship, or music.

When art is covered up from a perspective of lies, it cannot hold the truth in what the art is trying to convey. When there is a lack of truth, that feeling becomes what Ben Kessler calls “false art.”

A false perception of what you want people to see.

The song, “False Art” by Ben Kessler, captures the meaning of what art can be seen as when one is not true with oneself or others.

The first time I listened to the song, I was In the passenger seat of my sister’s run down, blue volvo. As I stared out of the window, my eyes scanned the heavy traffic on the black, icy roads. The winter brought an unsettling feeling of uncomfort and bitter cold.

The only positive of my time on the snow covered roads was being on my way home from getting a hot caramel cappuc-

cino from Starbucks, my favorite place to get drinks during the cold of the winter.

I was in a dark place deep in my mind, stuck in my own head full of self doubt. I felt numb, empty. I could not find a place to escape my intrusive thoughts.

The people I knew and were close to saw I was happy and thought I was fine because I said I was, but it was an act. It was false. I was secretly hurting inside and no one knew it. It was not until my sister, Tara, shuffled her Spotify playlist and a certain song played throughout the vessel of the car that I awoke from my subconscious strain of thoughts that kept me distracted from reality.

The soft strum of the guitar played a soft melody that stopped me dead in my tracks. The low voice of the male singer created a comfort of peace and warmth.

Words poured out of the speakers in the car like a trickle of water leaving its pitcher.

I immediately asked Tara what the song is simply because of the beauty that lies beneath the tune.

“False Art by Ben Kessler,” she replied.

I silently listened to the lyrics.

“Waiting for the glass house to come down/ Waiting to hear that crashing sound/ Waiting for the right words to tell you how/ I don't wanna be false art” The metaphors used in the lyrics tries pointing to a message that is subliminal yet obvious. The singer sings about how a picture perfect relationship is actually a messy and broken one underneath the surface. The metaphor, “waiting for the glass house to come down” symbolizes the structure of their relationship. The

“False Art” by Ben Kessler paints a picture of a strained relationship.

Photo supplied by Walter Bowne

infrastructure is built like a house, sturdy yet valuable, but the design is glass. The house is fragile and transparent. When one is able to see inside of a relationship, the heavy truth is revealed as well as the reveal of a mask behind the pain. The repetition of the word “waiting” used at the beginning of each line can signify the heavy burden weighed on top of the relationship.

All that the singer wants is to stop pretending that he is okay when really, he knows his relationship is slowly falling apart and he wants to end this act of love that is not there anymore.

Behind closed doors, the love the couple has for each other is not real; they cover it up with smiles and seemingly perfect pictures that are posted on social media as well as faking a love act in front of their friends.

“Pretend we're picture perfect/ When we're breaking beneath the surface/ I don't wanna be false art/ Make love like we deserve it/ To cover up what's hurting” Underneath the melodic beauty of the

song was a pain in Kessler’s voice. He sings of a love that is not meant to be and wants to stop pretending that he is okay.

I relate to the lyrics of the song, not because of a relationship but from a view of myself that I hate.

Like Kessler, I no longer want to pretend I am picture perfect when I am also breaking beneath the surface. In a way, I thought everyone was hiding a broken piece of themselves behind a facade just because I was.

Trying so hard to cover up the hurt people do not see can be frustrating. I wanted to believe that I was not alone in what I was dealing with. Although the song depicted a toxic relationship, I heavily resonated with what the hidden meaning was. The art that comes with a relationship creates beautiful images and happy experiences, but once that art fades into a sea of lies that is hidden behind a veil, it becomes false.

False art is not something that is yearned for but it tends to end up as a factor in many people’s lives that affect their relationships with others as well as themselves. When covering up an emotion or damage, things tend to fall apart just so other people do not see what is happening behind closed doors.

“She Kills Monsters” is Eastern’s return to the theater

By NICK VITALE ‘22 Staff Reporter

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rab your character sheets and swords, and get ready for this year’s fall play! Eastern Theater’s latest production will be She Kills Monsters, a 2011 comedy-drama penned by Qui Nguyen.

While at surface level the show may seem like nothing more than a love-letter to D&D, it tackles the subjects of loss and teenage sexuality in a refreshingly innovative way.

Set in 1995 in the town of Athens, Ohio, the story centers around high school senior Agnes Evans, whose freshman sister, Tilly, tragically passed away in a car accident.

A year after her death, Agnes discovers that Tilly’s favorite hobby was playing Dungeons and Dragons. So, in an attempt to learn more about the sister she barely knew, Agnes dives full on into a D&D module which Tilly wrote. Through the help of other D&D players from her school, Agnes is able to complete a quest, while also learning more about her little sister.

She Kills Monsters will be Eastern’s first live, indoor production in front of an audience since A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum way back in November of 2019.

Since then, the theatre club recorded and aired a production of It’s a Wonderful Life and mounted a full scale production of Seussical on the football field at McAleer Stadium.

Senior Annette Kroes, who plays Agnes, discussed the perks of being back in the Performing Arts Center.

“There’s a different, immersive experi-

ence when you’re on a stage with a set in a confined space, as opposed to being on the football field with all that space around you,” she said.

Being back in the theater isn’t the only new aspect that comes with She Kills Monsters, as the show also discusses teen sexuality and the LGBTQ+ community.

Over the course of the story, Agnes learns that Tilly was gay and had a crush on her classmate Lilly. In one particular scene, Agnes confronts Tilly in a rather blunt and ignorant way, which was a typical response for a time like 1995, but one that feels out of place today.

Dr. Molotsky, director of the production, commented on the show’s LGBTQ+ themes.

“It’s common to the students at school now, it’s no big deal. But it was certainly something that wasn’t happening in the 1980s and 1990s at the time. I think it’s great that we have characters on stage that are expressing now rather than the values of 1980 or 1950,” he said.

While certainly “out there,” She Kills Monsters represents a new age of theater, where a story taking place in 1995 is now a period piece and D&D nerds are portrayed as superheroes.

It’s definitely not your typical play, but She Kills Monsters ignites that little part of geek in all of us. While having a laughout-loud script, it manages to create a storyline and characters that the audience can easily connect to.

Overall, She Kills Monsters is unlike any show you’ve seen before. As Dr. Molotsky says, it’s expressing now, and doing so in a fun, unique way. Eastern’s production will run from November 18th to November 20th; hope to see you there!

Telling a story about the LGBTQ+ community through the frame of Dungeons and Dragons, “She Kills Monsters” is a unique production.

Photo supplied by Eastern Theater

Sports

Fall 2021

The Voyager 15

Not Your Average Eighteen Year Old: Raducanu wins US Open

By ALANNA STEIN ‘24 Staff Reporter ost eighteen year olds spend their days sitting at desks, listening to their teacher lecture on and on about information they will forget by lunchtime. They are swamped with homework

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and extracurriculars on the weekdays but still make time to socialize with friends on weekends. While they stress about what they are wearing to the Friday night football game or— more importantly— their future plans, Emma Raducanu worries about whether to hit a forehand or backhand.

US Open winner Emma Raducanu kisses the US Open Trophy following a 6-4, 6-2 win against Leylah Fernandez.

Photo: Timothy A. Clary, APF

Emma Raducanu is an eighteen year old British tennis player who recently won her first Grand Slam in her second ever appearance in a professional tour-level event. Before the competition, Raducanu was ranked one hundred and fiftieth in the world, but following the competition, she jumped around one hundred and twenty-seven spots to number twenty-three.

Due to her initially low ranking, Raducanu played in and won three qualifying matches before even competing in the tournament’s main draw.

Without ever dropping a set, Raducanu hastily made her name known as the first female qualifier to secure a spot in a grand slam final, let alone win one.

She effortlessly defied expectations of the public, making his-

tory with almost every shot.

In the first all-teenage championship since 1999, Raducanu seized the early lead against Leylah Fernandez in the first set. Through unforgettable baseline placement and notable drop shots, Raducanu took control of the game and swiftly won the first set 6-4.

Raducanu’s mental toughness proved to be an immense asset to her game in the second set.

Up 5-2, Raducanu slid on the blue-dyed concrete, creating a gash in her knee. A five-minute medical timeout left Raducanu a chance to analyze her past points and develop new strategies to implement against the fierce Fernandez.

Upon resuming the game, tension was high, but Raducanu’s momentum was low. Fernandez

took the opportunity to win one more game as the score now sat 5-3 with Raducanu leading.

In the final game of the match, Raducanu mustered up a powerful ace on her third break point to claim the title as the winner of the 2021 US Open Women’s Singles bracket.

Raducanu won the trophy with grace and persistence while displaying aggressiveness at the net and consistency at the baseline. Although Raducanu may be unfamiliar with sitting at desks for six hours under bright fluorescent lights, she nevertheless knows how to manage her time as she still received her high school degree. Emma Raducanu teaches students everywhere that they can pursue their dreams while focusing on their education as well.

United States Grand Prix highlights F1’s growth in America

By JOSEPH LOVERDI ‘22 Sports Editor etflix is a beautiful thing.

The concept of being able to stream any show at any given time is one brilliant invention. Formula One must be thanking its lucky stars that Drive to Survive has been so popular on the streaming service, especially during quarantine.

And the one country that gorged itself on Drive to Survive more than anyone else was the good ol’ US of A. Over 50 million people have watched the show according to McLaren CEO Zak Brown, and the show’s had a monumental impact in bringing in new, mostly American, fans to the sport, this article’s author included.

It was an immediate smash, even without Mercedes and Ferrari (the title contenders in 2018) participating in season one.

Quarantine left people looking for a show to watch, and Drive to Survive filled that void for many people. I watched all three sea-

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sons, which cover 2018-2020, covering storylines from the Haas/Rich Energy sponsorship debacle to Red Bull’s search for a consistent second driver following Daniel Ricciardo’s 2019 move to Renault, and found it to be incredibly riveting, as did many others.

I think we all knew Drive to Survive would have an immense impact on the sport, but we didn’t really see that until the United States Grand Prix returned to the F1 calendar in 2021 (it couldn’t be held in 2020 because of COVID). With the sport’s explosion in popularity in the States, expectations were high.

400,000 people made the trip to the Circuit of the Americas throughout the race weekend with 140,000 on race day, making it the most attended race weekend in Formula One history and cementing the United States Grand Prix as a calendar keystone (it had been taken off the calendar in 2008 following declining attendance at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, especially after a farcical race in

2005 where only 6 cars started the race in the midst of a tyre war between Michelin and Bridgestone). Millions more tuned in on ABC to watch a thrilling race where Max Verstappen continued to increase his lead, now 12 points up on Lewis Hamilton with 5 races left in the season.

Verstappen was able to hold off a charging Hamilton at the very end, finishing just over a second ahead of his title rival, as Red Bull’s decision to pit Verstappen early for an aggressive two-stop worked wonders. Hamilton had beaten Verstappen off the line and was leading until he first pit; Verstappen would lead every other lap when he wasn’t in the pit or behind Hamilton on older tyres.

The battle for fifth was also intriguing, as McLaren’s Daniel Ricciardo was able to defend from Ferrari’s Carlos Sainz, who then wore his tyres out and lost out on sixth to Valtteri Bottas, who’d started 9th due to an engine change after qualifying fourth.

Yuki Tsunoda’s horrid run of

Over 400,000 attendees, the most in Formula One history, watched the thrilling United States Grand Prix.

Photo by Formula One Media, Limited form ended with a strong showing to claim ninth (his first points It delivered a thrilling race besince Hungary), while Kimi Raitween title contenders to boot, as kkonen had impressed, fighting Verstappen and Hamilton fought his way up to tenth until a spin for the lead until the bitter end; on the last lap led to Sebastian the midfield continued to thrill Vettel, starting from 18th thanks as well, whether it be Ricciardo due to a full engine change, and Sainz battling throughout claiming his first point since that the race or Fernando Alonso’s joke of a race in Belgium. battles with both the Alfa RomeOverall, it’s easy to judge the os of Raikkonen and Giovinazzi United States Grand Prix as a and the stewards. Formula One rousing success. It proved that looks like it might finally stick Formula One is not only here in the United States after years now, but it’s here to stay and of trying, and the 2021 United still growing. We haven’t seen it States Grand Prix showed what peak, and we probably won’t for it can bring. a while.

Major League Baseball’s Sanction against Substances

By KYLE GOLDSTEIN ‘24 Staff Reporter

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ith the World Series just ending, as the Atlanta Braves defeated the Houston Astros 4-2, it is imperative to note a new change to the game that was made this season, which will alter the game indefinitely. On June 15th, the MLB officially announced it would be enforcing strict rules on foreign substances beginning on the twenty-first.

The new guidelines prohibit all foreign substances of any kind, bar rosin, from being applied to the ball or being within a player’s possession. Regular checks for illegal applications are enforced, usually taking place between innings or during pitcher changes. Players who are caught violating the rules will be ejected from the game and given an immediate ten game suspension.

So, why are these changes be-

too substantial of ing made all of a an advantage on sudden; if pitchers the mound – Spihave been using adder Tack. hesives for over a According to century, what is the its official webreason they’ve startsite, Spider Tack ed cracking down is a “super sticky on the sticky stuff? paste,” and its inA rule has nearly tensive properties always been present at play became in baseball’s history that foreign appli- How will MLB’s new substance rules affect pitching the main concern which caused the ances aren’t permit- in the seasons to come?

Photo: Kyle Ross, Icon Sportswire MLB to alter the ted. However, for Pitchers use stick rules entirely, banyears, the MLB has been leavsubstances to help them have ning nearly all substances and ing it up to opposing coaches better control of the ball, which implementing strict precautions to request umpires to check a is used for the benefit of increasand punishments. pitcher if they are suspicious of ing spin rate, or revolutions of Pitchers were enraged at the foul play. Since many pitchers the ball per minute (RPM). Innew guidelines, as the MLB was had been using substances anycreasing RPM allows the ball to not only banning Spider Tack, way, coaches were reluctant to move faster and curve more to but also almost every other lessask for an inspection of the other the pitcher’s desire. effective tool used for stickteam out of fear that their pitchBatters care less whether pitching. After years without conseer would be punished as well if ers use mixtures to help them, quence, professional baseball they were cheating. such as rosin or sunscreen, beplayers now have to live with no Batters were never angered by cause they don’t want to be hit aid to their throw. pitchers using adhesives because by pitches. However, a new subSome pitchers have found ways they preferred better control stance that pitchers begun using to protest the frequent checks of the pitches thrown at them. made other players feel they had

implemented by officials. Max Scherzer of the Washington Nationals removed his belt and persuaded the umpires to feel through his sweaty hair in outrage. Oakland Athletics reliever Sergio Romo even took off his belt and let his pants slide down during checks between innings.

No matter how the players feel, it looks as if the new additions to the rules are going to stay for the time being. The most interesting aspect of this situation is how the pitchers that have relied on adhesives through their career will make the transition. However, this will also allow pitchers with even greater raw talent to shine through this opportunity and arise to greatness.

In the upcoming seasons, we will witness how the players evolve without substances and see if the MLB will continue to enforce the rule – or allow pitchers to return to their old tricks.

16 The Voyager

Sports

Fall 2021

Mr. Bolen takes the reins as football head coach also included standout players such as T.J Gardner, Ryan Delaney, and NFL firstround pick Eli Apple. ince he came to Eastern, Mr. After continuing as a defensive backs Bolen has made a career out of coach for the next eight seasons, Bolen helping students find success came upon the opportunity to take on a after high school. He’s been a larger role with the Vikings when former guidance counselor here for almost a dehead coach John Doherty resigned in Decade, and he’s worked with the football cember 2020. team for just as long. But this year, he “It was just good timing on my end, and landed the opportunity to increase his imthe right situation, and I was able to interpact on the team, and leave his mark as view and discuss the things that I wanted head coach. to do with the program. They liked what I Having grown up in nearby Westhampwas putting out there, and I got the opporton, New Jersey, Bolen has local ties to tunity to lead the young men and coaches, Eastern. After graduand do my best,” Bolen ating from Rancocas said.

“They liked what I was Valley High School When Bolen heard in 2001, he attended putting out there, that he won the job, he the University of was ecstatic, because and I got the Notre Dame as part he knew that he was opportunity to lead of the Class of 2005, inheriting a great group the young men and majoring in anthroof players and coaches. coaches, and do pology, economics, His assistant coaches and computer applimy best.” include offensive cocations. He played on ordinator Nick Yotsko, the football teams at defensive coordinator both schools as a defensive back, gaining Kenny Foulkes, linebackers coach Gary notoriety as a strong, physical defender.

Worthington, as well as defensive line In the years after, Bolen found a job at coach Jacob Gruber and wide receivers Synthes USA Trauma, a medical device coach Delaney, who played on the 2012 manufacturing company, as a medical squad. sales consultant. However, he realized Bolen’s first win as head coach came that he wanted to return to football as a in the season opener against Seneca on coach, and enrolled at Wilmington UniSeptember 2nd. Since then, he’s collected versity in order to obtain his master’s in wins against Trenton Central on Septemschool counseling. A month after graduatber 17th and Highland Regional on Ocing in 2012, Bolen was hired at Eastern tober 8th. On October 22nd, the Vikings as a guidance counselor, a position he has finished the season strong against Rancoheld ever since. cas Valley with a 31-21 comeback victory.

2012 also marked Bolen’s first year of With every Friday night that passes, Boinvolvement with the Vikings, when he len and his players have improved. signed on as a volunteer coach for the “We’ve played some very tough players defensive backs. Led by quarterback and had a few setbacks, but the kids play Tom Flacco, the brother of former Super tough and respond well. We’re just lookBowl MVP Joe Flacco, that year’s roster ing forward to progressing and getting

By ANDREW SHINKLE ‘22 Editor-in-Chief

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Coach Bolen (left) and Coach Yotsko (right) communicate with the team during their blowout victory against Trenton Central on September 17th Photo by Andrew Shinkle ‘22 at McAleer Stadium. better than we were last week, and being and once you have a seat at the table, go ready for the game on Friday night,” he and compete, and hopefully win a state said. title one day,” he said.

So far, Bolen’s favorite aspect of head However, he realizes that at the end of coaching revolves around the playerthe day, the end goal for his players is bigcoach relationships. On his squad, the ger than football; that developing highplayers care about and play for each character people is the ultimate prize in other, which is crucial for a team’s locker life. room health and overall performance.

With the way things currently stand, it The coaches also play a role in fostering a looks like Coach Bolen will be in it for the sense of camaraderie and trust throughout long haul with the Vikings. Supported by the team. those around him, and with an honorable Going forward, Bolen wants to focus on goal on his radar, the sky will be the limit building the Vikings into a perennial playfor where he can take the program. off contender.

“As long as they’ll have me, I’ll be here.”

“The goal, always, when you get into a position like this is to make the playoffs,

Girls’ Tennis experiences a season of transition

By JOSEPH LOVERDI ‘22 Sports Editor

ond have been key to the Vikings’ success this year. Every team needs a strong dout’s been a season of transition for bles core to provide support; we saw that the Eastern Girls Tennis team. with both the girls’ and boys’ teams in the Last year’s team went 6-4 and 2020-21 season, and this year’s team is no made a strong run to the semifidifferent. “First doubles ended up defeatnals of their NJSIAA group tournament, ing every team in the Olympic Conferbut this year’s team has seen some changence having never played together before. es. There’s been rotation within the lineSecond doubles is always underrated but up; with Melody Dias, Lily Coyne, and they drive our record,” Kemery said.

Sydney Gold graduating (three fourths It’s especially noticeable at first, where of the 2020 team’s doubles lineup). Also, Serata and Riquelme boast the team’s best senior Abby Serata record. The two had never has moved from 3rd played together before “The girls worked singles to first douthis season, and quickly and earned their way gelled to form a near-unbles alongside junior Violet Riquelme, stoppable unit, arguably to those spots and while Lela Phung has the best doubles pairing in ultimately made the moved from first to one of the toughest conteam as strong as it third singles as sophferences in the state. was.” omore Magha Kumar Meanwhile at first rose to first singles. singles, it’s been a year Coach George Kemery sees this as of learning for Kumar, who played first good competition. “The girls worked and doubles with Dias last year. Kemery deearned their way to those spots and ultiscribes her play as “powerful, dedicated, mately made the team as strong as it was,” and laser-focused, hitting hard and flat.” he said.

Only a sophomore, Kumar’s an athlete The theme of this season was one of to watch throughout her remaining two transition from the old guard to the new, years at Eastern. one that will continue next year as SeWhen looking back at the season, Kerata, Phung, Nadine Litvak (second sinmery singles out both of their wins against gles) and Dara Hammel (half of second Cherokee as standout moments. doubles) will graduate. The Vikings went “They’re a good team and we murdered 9-8 and bowed out in the second round of them this year,” he said. Standing out is their NJSIAA group tournament followhard in the “toughest conference for tening a 4-1 loss to Lenape. nis in South Jersey,” but the Vikings did One of the season’s pleasant surprises just that this year. With a solid foundahas been the excellence of Eastern’s doution to build on as Kumar, Riquelme, and bles teams; Serata and Riquelme at first Kulkarni return, things will definitely and Hammel and Aastha Kulkarni at seconly go up from here.

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Junior Aastha Kulkarni stands ready for an opposing shot.

Photo by Tiana Cyrelson ‘22

Fall Season Standings Field Hockey: 25-2, NJ TOC State Champions Marching Band: NJ State Champions Boys Soccer: 11-9 Girls Soccer: 18-3-1 Football: 4-5 Girls Volleyball: 8-14