The Oracle Vol LV Issue 2

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GLENBROOK SOUTH HIGH SCHOOL

4000 W. LAKE AVE. GLENVIEW, IL, 60026, VOLUME LV, ISSUE 2, NOVEMBER 4, 2016 THEORACLE.GLENBROOK225.ORG

Board of Education implements new homework policy with plan to expand mary Grace Reynolds staff reporter

Civic Engagement: Pointing his finger to add emphasis, Brad Schneider, Democratic candidate for representative of the Illinois 10th congressional district, addresses a crowd of South students and local community members (left). Preparing what to ask the candidates, senior Clara Pauker works with other students to review audience questions during the debate (right).

The debate between representative candidates Brad Schneider and Bob Dold was held in the GBS auditorium on Oct. 20 during which AP Government and Politics students participated in a variety of roles to help the debate run smoothly. Photos by Rachel Nwia

AP Government students run congressional debate Cassidy Jeannine Foronda asst. news editor

South’s AP Government and Politics classes organized a debate for Illinois’s 10th District congressional race between Republican incumbent Bob Dold and Democratic candidate Brad Schneider on Oct. 20 in the Norman E. Watson auditorium.

According to Tara Tate, AP Government teacher, the students enrolled in the class were responsible for various aspects of the event and were each given a designated job. David Kane, AP Government teacher, says that students in radio, TV and stage crew participated as well.

“One of our goals [was] to get the kids really involved in the process,” Kane said. “We [tried] to get as many people as possible to get their finger-

prints on this.” ten times, political elections seem out In addition to energizing South stu- of touch with the general public and dents about politics, Tate says that as the openness helped to bridge this gap. an event open to the public, it was ben“I like it much better when the queseficial for the community as a whole. tions are coming from the audience,” “I hope we [were...] providing a ser- Schneider said. “[Those topics] are the vice for [the community] to become real concerns [and] issues that [votmore informed “I hope we [were...] providing ers] want to hear about the two canabout.” a service for [the community] Both candidates didates,” Tate said. to become more informed The South-run were impressed debate differed with the involveabout the two candidates.” from some previ- Tara Tate, AP Government ment of students ous events the two and the turnout of and Politics teacher candidates were young people in involved in because it did not have a the audience and the organization of set topic, according to the Daily North the event; Dold says it was the most Shore. Following pre-written questions professional debate the two had so far.

“It’s encouraging [to see student on foreign policy, economics and public welfare, the audience was welcome participation] because we’re going to submit their own inquiries. Tate said to have a stronger community,” Dold this helped to remedy the fact that of- said. “Ultimately we want people to be

engaged, not only in the political process but [...] in other organizations [...] and if [they] do, we’re going to have a stronger community.”

Matthew Whipple, AP Government teacher, explained that debates have become a political theater which serve primarily to solidify already existing biases rather than changing minds. In spite of this, the contest’s exchange of ideas was still valuable.

“I’m a big believer in debate,” Whipple said. “[It] can enhance ideas that are being presented [...] It would be a beautiful thing—an elegant thing— if there were [debate watchers] who came with an open mind and heard things that resonated with them that cause them to think about their vote more critically.”

See Debate, page 3

Updated lockdown procedures implemented, put to test CHAERIM PARK staff reporter

GBS, Winkleman, and Glenbrook Off-Campus went into lockdowns due to an incident at the off-campus facility on Oct. 5 at approximately 3:30 p.m. Faculty members utilized new lockdown procedures, coincidentally taught to them Sept. 26.

According to Dean Ron Bean, the new lockdown procedures do not follow set actions, but require an assessment of the type of emergency as well as its location. Teachers should lock doors and turn off the lights as previously required, but also barricade the door with objects in the room. If possible, Bean says, they should attempt to flee with students if they are far enough away from the threat.

Principal Lauren Fagel said, “[Stu-

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dents] were probably all trained [...] when [they] were younger that lockdown means hide in a room, quiet, light off, out of the way of the door.

But if there’s a threat in the building and you’re in a room with windows [...] wouldn’t it make more sense for you to get the heck out and all go out through the window [...] and be away from the campus?”

Fagel emphasized the need to take charge when necessary to increase the number of saved lives.

“Just because you’re not the person with a gun, it doesn’t mean you don’t have power,” Fagel said. “What the police and fire responders have learned in these situations is that when the victims take action, there’s less loss of life.”

For more on this story, visit the Oracle’s website at

See Lockdown, page 3

opinions

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DISREGARDING GRADES

The Board of Education implemented a new district-wide policy in July in order to increase the effectiveness of homework and make the amount assigned more manageable. The board is currently working to complete the accompanying list of principles in hopes that it will be finalized by this winter.

According to the new District 225 policy, homework should be used primarily for the benefit of student education, and not as discipline. The length of assignments are to be determined by teachers’ judgement and their department supervisor; the Superintendent will act as a guide to ensure that District homework policies are based on “current research and best practices.”

Principal Lauren Fagel explained that although the initial homework policy has been officially implemented, the proposed coexisting principles would merely be recommendations for teachers on how to productively utilize homework, while being mindful of other activities or classes students may be involved in. “[The board will] finalize and inform teachers of the things that [they] should be mindful of when assigning homework,” Fagel said. “They are suggestions. They are guidelines, not mandates.”

Dr. Rosanne Williamson, assistant superintendent for educational services, agreed with Fagel but says that another factor in delaying an official vote on the principles was the board’s trust in GBS and GBN teachers’ ability to assign homework responsibly.

“If you looked at our homework policy, it does speak to teachers’ professional judgment,” said Williamson. “I think we want to do things in the spirit of trusting the professional judgment of our teachers, but also understanding the professional conversations around things like homework.”

According to Williamson, last year during the strategic planning initiative, data collected from student, parent and teacher interviews revealed the common opinion that students receive too much homework. From the feedback Williamson received, it was concluded that 69-70 percent of students believed they were assigned too much homework. Thirty-five percent of parents and teachers agreed.

“The initial data that we collected in strategic planning led to the development and implementation of the homework policy that was adopted by the board in July,” Williamson said. “Because the policy calls for [the establishment] of principles, that’s where we are right now.”

Illustration by Sarah Warner

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http://tinyurl.com/oraclehw

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Nov. 4, 2016

NUMBERS IN THE

NEWS

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Days of the annual Canned Food Drive, which starts on Nov. 1

665 Teachers and students who participated in the GBS mock election

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Lives saved per donation at Interact Club’s Blood Drive on Oct. 25

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The date of the next Late

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which is in November

EVERYDAY IS 'MUN'DAY: Discussing their meeting agenda, seniors Yoana Sidzhimova and Lori Steffel, GBS Model United Nations (MUN) President and Vice President, lead their fellow board members. Sidzhimova and Steffel collaborated on an article about MUN that was published in the Johns Hopkins Center for Talented Youth’s magazine, Imagine Photo by Yoon Kim

Model UN leaders published in Imagine

GRACE SHIN

co-news editor

An article written by seniors Yoana Sidzhimova and Lori Steffel about GBS Model United Nations (MUN) was published in the Sept.-Oct. issue of The Johns Hopkins Center for Talented Youth’s (JHU CTY) magazine, Imagine.

According to Imagine’s website, the magazine’s purpose is to allow students to explore topics such as science, art and humanities through themed issues and writing by both college and high school students. The theme of the Sept.-Oct. issue was Politics and International Relations. Melissa Hartman, editor-in-chief of Imagine, explains the reason behind why she chose South students to write the article.

“We’ve covered [MUN] over the years and know what a great program it is, so I went looking for one of the best teams in the country,” Hartman said. “I landed on [...] bestdelegate. com and I was able to learn a lot about [GBS’s team]. I could see that [they] went to a lot of conferences, won a lot of awards [...] so I thought there was a

good chance there might be students who [...] would be able to write about their experience.”

Hartman reached out to MUN sponsor Terrence Jozwik in June, asking if any GBS students wanted to write the article. Jozwik chose the President and Vice President of the team, Sidzhimova and Steffel, respectively. “[Yoana and Lori have] been wonderfully successful at MUN for the last couple of years, and I knew they’d lead the team as seniors, so I thought both of them would be able to [answer Hartman’s] questions,” Jozwik said.

Sidzhimova and Steffel worked closely with Hartman during the summer in order to complete the article in time for the issue.

Originally unsure of what the article was supposed to be about, Sidzhimova says Hartman clarified that the article should include an explanat ion of MUN and their p er sonal

experiences in the program.

“We spent a couple months working on it,” Steffel said. “We would write a draft, send it in and then [Hartman] would give us some feedback and send it back to us. We would fix it and we just went through this editing and review process [...], but we really worked on making it concise and something that was ready to be published.”

According to Hartman, Sidzhimova and

Steffel did well despite the fact they had to combine their voices into one article.

“They both came through on the article,” Hartman said. “As far as work ethic goes, I’m not exaggerating to say it’s an editor’s dream. [...

I would] ask questions [...] and they were very responsive,

very thorough, very diligent. I couldn’t have worked with better writers.”

After seeing the result of the article, both Sidzhimova and Steffel note that they were amazed with seeing their names in the magazine and were impressed with the way it looked. “[Hartman] sent me a PDF of [the article] before it actually came out so I could see it,” Sidzhimova said. “But then I got a package of [...] Imagine magazines. [... It was] so weird to be reading it and knowing that I wrote this.”

Hartman also says that she was satisfied with the result of the article and that she was proud of it.

“I’m really pleased with that article,” Hartman said. “I think it deserves wide readership. [...] I think it does justice to MUN. It really gives kids a real feel for what it’s like to grow in the program.”

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Key Club expands, reforms Eat ‘N’ Read events

doesn’t want to [do a service project] and never see [the kids] again. Instead of doing the same read with the same kids, we are going to do [Eat ‘N’ Art and Eat ‘N’ Move].”

According to Ladan, the purpose behind the Eat ‘N’ Move program is to teach the kids healthy habits that correspond with the resources they have available. “[We want] to get kids active and moving because their playground is really small and they share it with K-8 graders,” Ladan said. “When they want to go outside, there is no room to be active. We are serving as mentors to them [about how to stay active].”

In addition to the Eat ‘N’ Move program, Koo also says that a Eat ‘N’ Art program is going to be implemented to help the kids outside of the classroom.

“We are working with art therapists SERVICE OVER SELF: Working with a student from Passages Charter School in Chicago, senior Maude Tarbox engages in one of Key Club’s Eat ‘N’ Read events on Sept. 23. The club promotes various service opportunities within local and global communities. Photo by Yoon Kim to develop a curriculum [for Eat ‘N’ Art],” Koo said. “They are going to wanted to make sure we are respecting to know each other very well.” be doing [an] art craft or activity but CORINNE SHAW Koo and Alex Ladan, Key Club hun- it also allows them to [use it as therathe school and their curriculum [...]. We staff reporter say ‘Here is our template, what do you ger and poverty committee leader, py], talk about emotions and get them agree that due to the success and feed- to open up and [create a] connection Key Club adds Eat ‘N’ Art and Eat guys think?’”

Koo wants club members to work back from both the GBS students and with our members.”

‘N’ Move to the Eat ‘N’ Read program in partnership with Passages Charter with the same kids within the program the first graders, the Eat According to Ladan, the for the remainder of their high school ‘N’ Read program should School in downtown Chicago.

Eat ‘N’ Read program, Josh Koo, Key Club sponsor, says the years in order to foster stronger rela- be expanded to fit other along with the future adEat ‘N’ Read Program began two years tionships. Augie Mikell, Key Club men- students’ needs. Both ditions, have given her a ago. He explained that the goal was to torship committee leader, says the kids said that the relationships new perspective on the GBS students made with bring lunches and read with the kids, enjoyed working with South students. definition of service.

“I thought the kids really appreciated the kids helped create the while also keeping the planning of the “[Doing a service projprogram open to working with Passag- [us coming],” Mikell said. “They had new programs. ect] is not about what is “Because we are workes Charter School teachers to enrich so much fun and I remember one kid convenient to you,” Ladan [asked his partner if] we were coming ing with the same school their teaching. said. “It’s about trying to “We worked with Passages Charter back tomorrow and he thought that and the same kids, you Use a QR Code Scanner focus on what the needs School to develop a program that was it would be everyday. I think that we develop a relationship,” to visit Key Club’s website: of other people are and GBSKeyClub.Weebly.com. specific to their school,” Koo said. “We formed a good relationship and we got Koo said. “Key Club what you can do to help.”

news

Nov. 4, 2016

Lockdown, continued from front

debating dold: Discussing various policy positions, Bob Dold (R) faces off against Brad Schneider (D), 10th Congressional District Representative candidates, in the Watson Auditorium at GBS on Oct. 20. South AP Government and Politics classes helped organize this debate to encourage civic engagement amongst students. Photo by Rachel Nwia

Debate, continued from front For example, Glenview resident Jack Murphy attended the debate but left undecided. However, Murphy still viewed it as valuable in gaining a better understanding of the candidates. “[When] you see people in person, you get a better feel for them rather than seeing them in a TV ad or reading about them in a paper,” Murphy said. “At times they seemed to get more agitated or more interested in some issues, so it was interesting to see that.”

Evelyn Krasnik, who worked in the Schneider green room, explained that the event was memorable even though she herself is not eligible to vote.

“It was honestly one of the coolest experiences that I’ve had because I was able to actually talk to [a person] that previously had [represented me] and is now running to represent me

again in Congress,” Krasnik said. “I cation policy, federal healthcare polcan spread my experience, [to those icy and all of the issues that we hear who can vote about] how it was about at the presidential level [that talking to [Schneider] and listening to will] resonate here in our community,” Whipple said. [the candidates] in the debate.”

Dold and According to Schneider are Whipple, it is engaged in one important for of the nation’s citizens to be few competitive active particcong re s siona l ipants in this races, accordrace by intering to Kane. He acting directly explained when with their Conthe candidates g re s sma n,b eran against each cause even in other in 2012 a presidential and 2014, the year, the repremargins of vicsentative voic- Clocking out: Holding a time card, senior es the 10th Dis- Patrick Dressler and other students helped run tory were slim and therefore trict’s interests the debate. Photo by Rachel Nwia will probably be in Congress. He says that the senators are tied to the close in this race as well.

“It’s exciting that we get one of entire state in ways that make them the [races] that could go either way,” more distant. “[Our representative] needs to Kane said. “Nobody has any clue hear us out on things like federal edu- who’s going to win.”

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drill made me nervous because we had no idea what was going on,” Spector said. “Anyone could try barging into the room, and it could’ve been someone reAccording to Fagel, an unidentified ally bad especially with all the school GBS student was on the Glenbrook shootings that have been going on.”

Bean says that certain teachers exoff-campus property when approached by graduate Daniel Shatkovskiy, who plained new procedures to their stuappeared, to a witness, to be pulling a dents and others didn’t based on their weapon from his waist while pointing own comfort levels with the situation. his finger and saying “I’m gonna get He explained that, in response to stuyou.” Fagel says that the perceived ap- dents asking for more information repearance of a potential weapon com- garding new procedures, the school has bined with his aggressive demeanor arranged to inform them during drills.

“Our plan [...] in the spring [...] is to prompted an off-campus teacher to conshare more information with students,” tact 911.

Fagel put South under a lockdown Bean said. “[We will] still do our emerupon hearing about the incident. Ac- gency drills but maybe add some time cording to Fagel, Glenview police later [...] so teachers can have conversations with the kids in apprehended Shatkovs“Just because you’re not their class about the kiy in his home and he was found without a the person with a gun, it changes.” says informweapon. Although the doesn’t mean you don’t ingFagel students of the situation ultimately did have power” new procedures is not result in any physical injuries, staff mem- Principal Lauren Fagel now at the top of her list. She also believes bers like math teacher Bryan Cope were ready to apply their that training the school is more important than improving the general security. earlier trainings.

“I do feel like, in general, our school “[All the teachers in the Math Department] went into the hall to make is very safe,” Fagel said. “For me, it’s sure that no kids were out there,” Cope honestly more about training people said. “We checked the bathrooms, mak- than trying to lock every door [...]. That ing sure all of the students were out of doesn’t mean we shouldn’t pay attenthere. After it seemed like [...] everyone tion to doors locked, [...] but I just think was where they need to be, we locked it’s more important to train people.”

Fagel acknowledged that the school the door and put the furniture in front of learned about ways to make it safer it and [made] sure the space was safe.”

Dana Boehmer, physical education and more aware in case of an emergenteacher, said the training gave her more cy. She also said the administration will guidance in how to proceed during the continue to work to improve all aspects of the school’s approach to crisis situlockdown.

“I don’t think I would have thought ations while expressing how impressed about barricading [the doors without she was at GBS for their take on the the training…] It gave me confidence to lockdown, whether they had been aware of the new procedures or not. proceed how we did,” Boehmer said. “[The school acted] stellar in that our Because students, like senior Rebecca Spector, were unaware of the new students completely impressed all the procedures, they used the old ones they adults,” Fagel said. “They followed diwere taught to follow since a young age. rections immediately. [... The staff] went However, she says she was still nervous above and beyond and were willing to put themselves in harm’s way so that because of the situation.

“I think the idea that it was not a kids could stay safe.”

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Nov. 4, 2016

The editorial expresses the opinion of the majority of the editorial board and not necessarily that of the publisher, adviser, school administration or staff.

Nov 5, 2010

Student social media presents potential for positive practice

editorial

Financial aid provides student opportunities Everything in today’s world costs money. From club shirts to school lunch, the expenses of life are high and come up more often than we think. Since all families’ financial situations are different, it is not easy to stand in another student’s shoes and understand the impact their financial situation has on their life.

Some students, depending on their financial situation, may need to apply for need-based aid, a scholarship that takes into consideration a family’s financial situation, as well as a student’s academic or athletic standing. Receiving need-based aid at South can include programs like free or reduced lunch. For college, the ability to apply for need-based aid through Free Application for Student Financial Aid (FAFSA) and Questbridge— whose deadline has, as of this year, passed, but will be available for rising seniors — is also based on the net worth of the family.

With all the different types of need-based aid available students are eligible to receive a varying amount of aid.

In light of college application season, many students may suddenly realize that the way they represent themselves on social media is not the way they want admissions counselors to see them. Some students have been known to change their Facebook names and delete questionable photos on Instagram and Twitter in order to combat this problem.

Some South students have said they feel comfortable posting pictures of themselves taking part in discouraged activities online. These activities could include underage drinking, illegal drug use or vandalism. Some students attribute their comfort to privacy settings, false usernames and blocking followers.

According to an article on Time.com, 40 percent of admissions counselors visit prospective students’ social media pages in order to learn Need-Based Aid at South more about them, such as their creative interDue to the confusion of financial aid, the Oracle Ediests, and to investigate reports of inappropritorial Board strongly encourages all students who think ate behavior. The Oracle Editorial Board urges Source: Kaplan Test Prep they need financial help at school to talk with a trusted students to use social media accounts as positeacher, dean, counselor or other administrator. This ensures that tive tools that will aid them in the college application process. all students will receive the necessary financial aid throughout According to sophomore Janet Scheffler*, choosing to post their time at high school and beyond. a photo online is less about the implications behind that photo, South’s ability to help students through funding is a way to enand more about how it presents her physical appearance to her sure students feel integrated into the community. followers and friends.

In doing so, the financial aid is split into sectors. Free and re“If it’s a good photo, I’m not going to waste that opportuniduced services typically cover books, field trips and lunch but not ty,” Scheffler said. “Because [...] sometimes it’s hard for me to extracurriculars or athletics. A club might have funding in it’s club take a good photo, so if it’s good, I’m going to use it. But [...] fund to help pay for part of a student’s fee for a conference or othI’m going to cover [anything illegal with a sticker].” er form of trips; however, this service is one that must be asked for.

Scheffler believes that by covering direct evidence of her inSenior Nurul Hana Mohammed-Rafee has been receiving finanappropriate behavior, she is erasing the evidence that she parcial aid since sophomore year and feels that it has significantly liftticipated in unlawful activities. However, the Oracle Editorial ed the burden from her family.

Board believes that this is not enough to shield students from “There was a lot that I wouldn’t ask my parents for freshman the repercussions of breaking the law and posting suggestive year that I could [ask for] sophomore year, like [to] go on classphotos online. room field trips,” Mohammed-Rafee said. “Sometimes [field trips In addition, while it is important for students not to paritciwere] like 20 dollars and I would have to ask my parents [for the pate in illegal activities and avoid posting incriminating photos money...] and then I would feel bad for asking, but [now] financial of themselves, it is also important to avoid sharing photos of aid covers the field trips.” friends taking part in unlawful behavior. These are just as perLara Cummings. assistant principal of student services, and Dr. manent online as photos people post of themselves. By posting Jim Shellard, assistant principal of student activities, both state a photo of someone else, that person is left with no power to that they want a student’s financial aid status to remain personal take the photo down. at the beginning, so the topic of a student’s given financial aid sitSenior Jane Carpenter changed her name on Facebook beuation only goes as far as the given student wants it to. cause she believes that colleges should not visit students’ so“There were times [at South] that [Shellard and I] witnessed cial media accounts during the admissions process. She ex[...] kids having to walk into the bookstore and say, ‘But I’m free plained that what she posts on social media does not reflect and reduced’ or it was called [to] attention around other students who she is as a person, even though she does not share incrimor around other parents,” Cummings said. “And we just felt very inating content. strongly that that’s not appropriate. Whatever their reason is for “I don’t think a silly face should affect my college deciqualifying, that’s confidential and it’s personal.” sion or affect how I’m considered as a student,” Carpenter

Why should we, as a community, stigmatize the students who are receiving need-based scholarships in order to provide themselves with more opportunities in the future? Instead, we should all apply for scholarships that are applicable to our familial financial situation and invest in our futures by putting money aside and taking advantage of the financial aid available to us.

Need-Based Aid for College said. “Appearances definitely matter more than [I think they should].”

Finally, as college deadlines draw nearer, the Oracle Editorial While there are many examples of the negaBoard believes that every student should take advantage of tive impact that social media creates in the adall the need-based aid that they can get as they move formissions process, there are also many positive ward into the collegiate world. ways that students can use them. By using FaceWhen applying for colleges, there are different types book, Instagram and other accounts to reinforce of need-based aid students can apply for Questbridge and the extra curricular activities and interests which FAFSA being the most common. While Questbridge has a a student notes on their application, social media limit on the amount of money a family can receive in order can be a great way to represent oneself to college to be eligible for the aid, FAFSA has no such limitations and admissions counselors. is open for all people to fill out in order to determine federSource: Kaplan Test Prep Students can use social media to build a portal need-based aid that can be provided. folio of their high school career. Instead of filling a profile with While FAFSA has the obvious benefits of helping students posed photos with friends, students can ask parents and peers whose family cannot pay for college by themselves, students are to take photos during sports games, performances or any othtypically required to fill out FAFSA in order to be considered for er events in which they participate and post them online. merit-based scholarships.

There are countless stories of social media becoming a Thus, filling out the FAFSA is a great way to either help get problem for students and even adults down the road. While a funds for college, or receive merit-based awards. However, no matsocial media image is important in the college admissions proter what the case is, it’s impossible to know the help a person is cess, it will also be important as students step out of college eligible for unless they reach out to the school through applications and into job applications and careers. Instead of letting social for need-based scholarships. media become a problem, build a habit of using it as a positive In the end, a person should not be judged by the amount of suptool to further your opportunities and strive toward success. port they receive from school. A need-based scholarship does not *names have been changed change the work ethic or character of an individual, nor does it increase favors towards them outside the financial realm.

is published monthly by students at Glenbrook South High School, 4000 W. Lake Ave., Glenview, IL 60026.

The opinions expressed in the Oracle are that of the writer(s) and not necessarily of the staff or school.

The Oracle neither endorses nor rejects the products and services advertised.

editors-in-chief Katie Cavender Nick Moran Anne Marie Yurik news editors John Schurer Grace Shin opinions editors Jonathan Lee Sasha Vassilyeva features editors Maddy Ruos Alexandra Sharp a&e editors Leah Dunne Cassidy Jackson sports editors Samantha Casey Sophie Hensley

photos editors Sophie Mason asst. news Cassidy Foronda Anushka Kalra asst. opinions Gigi Cepeda Maeve Plunkett asst. features Abby Grant Brigid Murphy Eliza Schloss Imra Tajuddin asst. a&e Aakash Bhojwani Josie Schneider asst. sports Sofia Snyder Sophie Vick

FACTS Free and Reduced Applicant Qualifications:

$ Food stamp recipients or Aid to Families with Dependent Children $ Foster child

$ Total household info below or at levels per household size: household qualifying monthly size: income:

2 3 4 5 6 7

$2,470 $3,108 $3,747 $4,985 $5,023 $5,663

Graphics by Yoon Kim

asst. photos Yoon Kim Rachel Nwia adviser Marshall Harris gbsoracle@gmail.com

“The Glenbrook South Oracle”

@GBSOracle @GBSOracle thegbsoracle

opinions

Nov. 4, 2016

5

Third party voting expands diversity Third party votes waste opportunity Nick Moran co-editor-in-chief

During a class discussion, a former teacher made the point that if there was a candidate that you entirely agreed with, you would be running yourself. The way to support a candidate is choosing your values, ranking them and seeing how they align with a candidate.

Assuming I decide that my stance on immigration is what I’m most passionate about, I’ll naturally be attracted to a candidate whose views on immigration are closest to my own. If there are multiple candidates that share that stance, I move on to my second most important issue until I find the candidate I stand with most.

In a perfect representative democracy, every voter chooses the candidate they associate themselves with most and cast their vote for them, leaving the winner of the election to be the one that best represents the people.

But what if we didn’t vote for who we thought represented us the best?

The outcome is we find our key issue and decide if we view the answer liberally or conservatively and vote strictly off that. If your answer to a core issue is conservative, you’re a Republican.

If your answer is liberal, you’re a Democrat. Simple, right?

When we vote with a mindset like this, we face a slippery slope. Though I may agree with one candidate on immigration, for example, what about taxes? I’ve aligned myself to one of two major parties based on a single issue out of a plethora of conflicts we face daily.

In a perfect democracy, I’m not looking for a candidate to solve one of my issues, but I want a candidate that represents me on a deeper level.

That’s where third-party candidates play an important role.

If you want Donald Trump to consider a more liberal stance on social issues, Gary Johnson, Libertarian presidential nominee, may satisfy your values more closely than Trump. If you like Hillary Clinton but think her plans are helpless if our environment rots, Jill Stein agrees with some of her politcal stances, but leans to better the environment with her Green Party.

It always bothers me when people view the election as a “lesser of two evils,” where they’re stuck voting for one side because they don’t like the other. Frankly, our political system is a spectrum of beliefs, not two opposing sides.

I get it: when you look at polling numbers for Gary Johnson and Jill Stein, their below 15 percent numbers are less than appealing. I bet it

feels like you’re throwing away your vote, and in a way, you may be right.

On the other hand, acknowledging that there are more than two options during an election is the first step in diversifying our choices for president and finding a better match.

It’s like the Bachelor (stay with me here, people). Do you think Ben would have found his soulmate between just JoJo and Amanda? He needed a diverse cast to test his feelings (or his values) in order to find his soulmate, or else he would have settled on an incorrect match and returned to his single life.

The election is much more than an episode of the Bachelor, but the commonality is how we make decisions. Though it may be harder to choose with more options on the table, it’s easier to find the best fit, whether it be your significant other or the next president of the United States.

Yes, it’s an idealist’s dream to have everyone vote their conscience, but each dream has a basis in reality. This country belongs to each of us and your vote is your voice. With this power in your hands, be true to yourself. I beseech you, don’t settle your vote on Republican or Democratic conformity if that’s not what you stand for.

Katie Cavender co-editor-in-chief

After months of campaigning and build-up for next week’s election, I’m a bit frustrated with the way things have been going. Both Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump are extremely hard to take seriously, and both have flaws that many U.S. voters believe make them unfit to be president. Either one could significantly change our country’s future, and it is almost certain that one of them will become president.

I say “almost certain” because, despite the way the media may make it seem, there are more than two candidates whose names will appear on the ballot for president, and every candidate technically has a chance to win. (Dramatic pause for surprised gasps.) This happens every year, but according to recent polling data in the New York Times, about nine percent of Americans have been considering voting for a third-party candidate in the 2016 presidential election, which is significantly more than in previous years.

If you are one of these Americans, I implore you, please, do not do it. While it may be your

first instinct to put your vote toward someone you disagree with less than the two mainstream candidates, a vote for a third-party candidate will be a wasted one.

Because of the electoral college system that the United States follows, the percentage of votes that go to third-party candidates almost never count in the grand scheme of the election. Since 1968, according to Wikipedia, there was never a presidential election where a third-party candidate earned any electoral votes. Why would that change this year?

According to 270towin.com, Utah is the only state where third-party candidates dominate the polls for the 2016 election. However, even if a third-party candidate were to win Utah, they would gain only six electoral votes out of a total 270 that a candidate needs to win.

In each state, at least six percent (usually more, between 10 and 20 percent) of polled voters have demonstrated preference for a third-party candidate. In almost all cases, the difference between the preference for Clinton or Trump is so small that if the third-party voters changed to one party or the other, it would decide the vote for that state.

While a vote for a third-party candidate would be a waste, third-party voters changing their mind at the last second could change the course of the election. The best course of action, if you fall under this category, is to simply pick Clinton or Trump. No matter how painful it may be to simply choose whom you see as the “lesser of two evils,” it is the most effective way to ensure that you at least had some say in the outcome of the election.

The United States’ political system is far from perfect. A great example of its flaws is that in the 2000 election, George W. Bush won based on the electoral vote and not the popular vote, but he still became president. While we call ourselves a democracy, the methods by which we choose our elected officials often discount much of the country’s opinion, splitting the choices into two polarized major political parties. I cannot even begin to explain the flaws in this dichotomy.

Perhaps in the future, there will be a political revolution in the country that tears down the two-party system and allows for more voices to be heard in large-scale elections. However, for now, Americans are realistically presented with two choices for president. I won’t tell you which to vote for, but the harsh reality is that one of them will be elected. Make your voice heard.

Don’t waste your vote on a third-party candidate.

Too close to call

Source: 270towin.com

Disregarding grades encourages personal, fulfilling education If I got an A, it was a good day and I walked home with a smile on my face. If I did poorly, for whatever reason (forgetting a minor homework assignment or getting lots of little red ink letters on a scantron), I’d walk around lost in a fit of anger and Maeve Plunkett desperation, looking for someone to blame. asst. opinions editor My feelings of desperation never emerged because I felt like I didn’t know what I was doing.

I may have felt unsure, but that wouldn’t hurt. It was that percentage that just kept falling in PowA few weeks ago, my history class lamented erschool, the number that I knew would destroy the fact that we don’t know enough about the my future prospects.

Well, that’s crap. political parties. We were all eager to create the It’s taken me a long time to figure this out, but I list on the board of areas we felt our education was lacking. But the second our teacher started to am a much better learner when I’m not concerned say things like “twenty minute presentation” and about grades. I’m currently taking Advanced Top“seven page article,” the wide eyes narrowed and ics in Mathematics and it is kicking my butt, yet our hands started to nervously play with our pens. I’m not giving up.

Last year, my breathing would have sped up We all say we want to learn about the election, but once the word “essay” leaves the teacher’s with every red “X” I marked on a math assignmouth, we are ready to be ignorant again. We brag ment. Don’t even get me started on what would to colleges about the challenging courses we take, have happened if I’d seen a D in the gradebook, in but groan day in and day out about the homework the test column, no less.

But let me tell you, this load. Why is that?

A real learner doesn’t back year, I’m marking those Are we just so fed up with down because of a bad grade questions with pride. learning that we can only or forgotten test, nor do they I’m raisingwrong my hand and letbe interested on the surface care about what the teacher ting my teacher know just level? Honestly, I think it all thinks of the essay they write. how confused I am about comes down to the grades.

Grades instill fear in learners. They are a threat these crazy things called matrices and how the for the slackers and a treat constantly being heck I am supposed to multiply them.

I used to be scared of having questions, nevsnagged away from the try-hards. Everyone wants er wanting people to know that I was anything that A, but no one wants to do the work to get it.

I’ve struggled for a long time with grades. As less than perfect. A lot of that came from being the typical over-achieving academy student, my expected to fit into the Harvard mold by my parfirst B came as a cold hard slap in the face. The ents, teachers and peers. I didn’t want to be the first F I received on a test threw me into a down- one who held up the class with questions or the one who blew off studying for a test because she ward spiral that lasted over a year.

For a long time, my grades dictated how I felt. was sick.

But you know what? I finally started to listen to those friends who tell you that your health is more important than your grades. I finally found that a hard class is much more tolerable when you aren’t sticking your nose up about how easy it must be for you.

This is the first time I’ve fully understood that someone can be smart and still struggle. I didn’t learn that lesson from people saying it though, I learned it from people actually going out there and doing it.

I have been humbled by some wonderful human beings. That chemistry teacher who failed me, that girl in my physics class who never stopped asking questions no matter how she did on a quiz, that friend who gets B’s and wears them with pride.

They have shown me the way of a real learner. A real learner doesn’t back down because of a bad grade or forgotten test, nor do they care about what the teacher thinks of the essay they write. A real learner is in it for the knowledge and the process.

For me, I couldn’t see it until I let go of my Powerschool app. Sure, I still check my grades, but I don’t turn red when I see low percentages. I don’t immediately tell my friends

how stupid my teacher is while internally blaming myself for every failure in the universe.

This year, I’m no longer staring at my workload with dread. I’m also not feeling down about that D I got on the first test. There’s no time to sit around moping and complaining about the next assignment.

I pull out my colorful pens and start organizing my notes so I do better on that next test because now I know what I don’t know. It only took me until senior year to truly admire the socratic learner, the student who accepts that they can’t know everything, but never stops asking questions in pursuit of such impossible knowledge.

I’m not going to do better because I want to raise my grade; I’m going to do better for myself, because why else would a humanities-driven person like myself take Advanced Topics in Mathematics?

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opinions

Nov. 4, 2016

United Nations’ Global Goals fight social, environmental issues

Alex ladan columnist

The poorest half of the world’s population has the same amount of combined wealth as the 62 richest people on the planet according to WE Organization. It would only cost $66 billion to end extreme poverty for one year. That’s easily less than American’s spent on the lottery in 2014 which was $70 billion.

It’s scary when things are put into perspective.

In the world we live in today, families become trapped in poverty because they can’t scrape together enough money to pay for basic necessities such as food, clean water, clothing and a place to live.

Every day I wake up and remember how thankful I am to have these basic items. They are so deeply implemented in my life that I often forget that I heavily rely on them. Many families living around the world struggle each day, wondering when they’ll find their next meal. They wonder when their sicknesses will stop or when they’ll be able to afford to keep a roof over their heads.

Life doesn’t need to be this way. All over the world, whether in poorer nations or in developed countries, people are trying to develop ways to build a better, more sustainable life.

One Thursday after school, I was on the bus with my friend headed to Evanston Outreach; one of my first Key Club events. This soup kitchen event consisted of cooking, laughing and sitting with homeless people for dinner. This one event changed my life forever. It made me realize that everyone has a story.

Just over a year ago in 2015, the United Nations met together to discuss seventeen Sustainable Development Goals (also known as Global Goals).

The Global Goals plan to build on the previous Millennium Development Goals proposed by the UN, aimed to be achieved by 2030.

These goals are the only way to ending all forms of poverty, fighting inequalities and tackling climate change. Uniquely, the new goals are a call to action for all countries in addition to third world countries.

It is important to note that world’s problems are urgent. By following these goals, we will improve our planet and the people living on them. Hundreds of world leaders signed onto the Global Goals to focus on every aspect of human life for the next 15 years.

These goals are exactly what we need. I think that by encompassing essentially every country under this umbrella, we can make a legitimate difference in the world. And by we, I mean the next generation.

The creators of these goals aimed to focus more on the youth and getting them involved. Kids can learn about various world problems while learning about the world leaders who support the goals.

By educating kids from a young age that constantly improving our world is important, we can inspire them to be the change. And that is exactly what happened to me.

Being a part of the youth, the change means so much to me. I have the power to change others. At South, I am constantly thrown opportunities to voice my opinion.

There are more children in this generation than there ever have been. The youth is technologically advanced, making them uniquely equipped to solve the world’s most pressing issues.

Organizations such as Youth Service America (YSA) and countless other nonprofits and businesses are focusing on making the Global Goals famous. The Global Goals are so important because the creators have compiled resources specifically for adolescents to “Get the Goals Known” (Global Goals). In bright colored squares, the Global Goals are visually appealing - serving as a great eye catcher when scrolling through Instagram.

So I encourage you all to not only work towards making the world’s new Global Goals some of the most successful yet, but to inspire others and find your passion. As part of the youth, I can reassure you that together, we can work together to combat each and every global issue that is thrown at us.

#thisis2016 illuminates casual racist joke culture Jonathan Lee co-opinions editor

“So how do you Asians put on your contacts?” a classmate asked.

“I just cut them in half before I put them in,” I responded.

This is just one example of many experiences I have gone through dealing with racism. As an Asian-American, I’ve dealt with countless number of insults or “jokes” for being Asian. I say “jokes” with quotations because that is always the reasoning for all the slander I receive.

These “jokes” have always been made by friends or just classmates. Most of the jokes are just plain stupid with no creativity.

I used to tell people that if they had the audacity to make an Asian joke, they should at least make it somewhat original. But I’ve realized that this has made it only worse.

I just started to get used to the “jokes” I’ve reI have always dealt with these encounters ceived from my friends, but I knew that in comwith my own sense of humor, embracing it in- ing years I would receive this type of treatment stead of being defensive. People will joke saying, even in the work environment or in the general “Can you even see?” and I respond with my eyes public. I realized that if I continue to give in and closed jokingly saying, “Nope - not even a little.” take this type of racism with humor, people will This was just always my way of dealing with only continue to make these put-downs. this type of racism. It was easier for me to acThis is not an article where I call out all my cept it than defend against it, but after watching friends and people who have been racist towards the New York Times video called #thisis2016, it me. But rather an apology. It’s an apology to my got me thinking and I realized that I needed to culture. Rather than defending my culture and change. fighting for my identity, I have chosen to emThe video is based off the New York Times ar- brace the insults and continue on with my life. ticle by Michael Luo called “An Open Letter to I have always been embarrassed to go out the Woman Who Told My Family to Go Back to in public with my parChina.” Luo responds to this ents because of the This is not an article where I call encounter by writing an open language barrier. My out all my friends and people who letter to describe the experimom speaks English have been racist towards me.

But ences he’s gone through and fluently, but my dad rather an apology.

It’s an apology explains how the woman was is not as experienced. to my culture. in the wrong.

With something as litAfter Luo had the encountle as ordering food at the drive thru or asking ter with the woman, he decided to tweet about a worker a question, I was always ashamed to it using #thisis2016. This inspired thousands of see my dad trying to communicate with others; Asian-Americans to tweet out their own expe- it embarrassed me to see the trouble my dad had riences of racism, and soon after, he created the speaking and the people trying to understand. video that went viral.

But why did I think like this? Why was I The video showed Asian-Americans read- ashamed for being who I am? Why did I hate ing their own tweets about their racist encoun- my culture? These were the thoughts that went ters. Middle-aged people describing their en- through my head while watching the #thisis2016 counters put me in a depressed mood, but at the video. same time helped me realize that the racism I Honestly, I have no one to blame but myself. go through in high school will continue until the Embracing the racism I received through my own day I die. humor made others feel as if it was okay.

These people were explaining confrontations I didn’t do anything to stop it, so why would that happened a week or a couple years ago. This they? Instead of saying, “Hey, quit it. That’s acis still an ongoing thing for them as adults, which tually really offensive,” I said, “Do you have any honestly scared me.

Illustration by Ala Jankowski

other good Asian jokes?”

I love my friends, and they’re all like brothers to me. Obviously it hurts when one of them makes an Asian joke. But they don’t know any better.

I haven’t done anything to make them understand how I feel or explain how offensive it truly is. It’s my fault because I have made them act as they do, and now I know that in a couple of years if I continue to just let it happen, coworkers and bosses will do the same thing.

So I just want to say I’m sorry. I’m sorry to my dad for thinking so lowly of you. You are the best dad a son can ask for, and if I had the choice to make you speak better English, I wouldn’t because every aspect about you makes you who you are: the best dad.

I want to say sorry to my culture. I’m sorry for choosing to neglect you. People have always called me “the whitest Asian” or a “twinkie” for being yellow on the outside and white in the inside. But I don’t think it’s true at all. I’d rather be a banana or a lemon. I’m yellow all over and proud.

Lastly, I’m sorry for not telling you guys otherwise. When you said those Asian jokes I just laughed and made it seem like it was ok. But in truth, it’s not. It hurts me inside every time, and even though I hide it with a laugh, I want you to know that it really does offend me and I really hope that you’ll understand to stop. #thisis2016

Vegetarianism doesn’t indicate conceit; intentions vary Al solecki columnist

If you’ve ever found yourself annoyed by people sporting “I’m a vegetarian” as a badge of moral high ground, you’re not the only one.

Good or bad, diet choices can bring heated moral implications to the table.

Vegetarians. They’re often mocked, written off, type-cast, and invalidated. But why do we criticize each other’s diets so readily?

The short answer is that vegetarians can often make meat eaters feel bad. The assumption is that all vegetarians are out to advocate for animal rights and are high-key hypocrites, not eating meat while, for example, still drinking milk from farmed cows (not always the case).

I personally have been through the assumed “teenage girl phase” of wondering if I think killing animals for our consumption is moral or necessary. Three years ago, I stopped eating meat.

However, while I chose to cut out chicken, beef and other animals, I kept fish, making me a pescetarian. Cases like mine can seem inconsistent and non-vegetarians could understandably argue: who are you to decide which animals are ethically OK to eat or not?

One part of the feud is lent to the assumption that the only reason someone would be a vegetarian is for animal rights. Animal rights is one, but not the only respectable reason to modify a diet.

In fact, according to polls by the Harris Interactive Service Bureau, in which 5,050 people were surveyed, an estimated 54 percent of vegetarians cite animal welfare as a reason for the restriction, while 53 percent claim personal health as a leading factor and 47 percent cite environmental concerns.

For example, while my being a pescetarian was initially sparked by a moral concern, I eat fish for health reasons, and my main incentive is actually the environmental implications of the beef industry.

According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the UN (FAO), about 14.5 percent of the world’s greenhouse gas emission comes from the production of livestock.

The less we demand, the less we need to farm.

But the discord between vegetarians and meat eaters is also a moral accusation: that nobody is a true vegetarian, and animal products are an inseparable aspect of American life… a Illustration by Al Solecki true fact.

For me, pescetarianism is a compromise of morals. I feel better knowing that I may be lessening the effects of an industry that is innately harmful to the environment, even though I admittedly still contribute to an industry that may be overfishing the

seas. And there’s the catch.

For whatever reason you decide to restrict your meat intake (moral, health or environmental), there’s never a way to do it completely. You might not eat beef, but still drink milk from farmed cows. You might not eat fish, but still drive a fossil fuel-burning car. It’s easy to target the people trying to do better simply by saying they can never do it completely, but that’s not right.

Here’s my opinion: if you can’t do something entirely, save every animal from death by man, remedy every problem that faces the environment, that should never stop you from doing as much as you possibly can anyways.

I restrict my diet for the environment, even though I still buy clothing that was probably made in a factory that runs on petroleum, which harms the environment. I do it even though I use a heater in the winter and drive a car, even though the environment is still in danger after the effort’s been made.

I am still part of the problem. It’s almost impossible not to be. But by eating less meat, I can try to address my concerns as much as I can.

I try to be careful about preaching, because it shouldn’t be about superiority. I don’t set out to exemplify myself as the picture of activism, though I understand there might be some who do… and that’s understandably uncool.

But if you simply ask vegetarians why they do it, it’s then on you whether or not you agree with those concerns. And, if you find that you do, rather than invalidate those who made you aware of the issue, ask yourself: what are you willing to do about it?

reviews

Nov. 4, 2016

Nov 5, 2010

Source: Cartoon Network

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Source: Cartoon Network

Over the Garden Wall invokes youthful fear, adventure Nick Moran co-editor-in-chief

When you’re a teenager, you look back toward a childhood of awe and bliss, hoping to relive an era of imagination and firsts. Growing up, for some of us, we shift into a world of worries and personal insecurities, a stark difference to a cheerful past. Only once in my life have I had the pleasure of watching a series that so rightfully compares both ways of life thanks to Over the Garden Wall.

Created by Patrick McHale and released two years ago on Nov. 5, the series has become traditional watching for me as autumn strolls into frame. No matter how many times I watch the show or listen to the soundtrack, I’m filled with the same warm, exciting emotions as the first time I saw it.

The miniseries features main characters Wirt and Greg, step-brothers who find themselves lost in a desolate forest during the first episode. Within minutes, dominant and opposite personalities are established, leaving you attached to both, but split in judgement.

Wirt, the elder of the two, is burdened with insecurities, worries and the responsibility of bring-

ing the duo home. Greg, on the other hand, is his echoing voice makes my heart race just thinking adorable little brother who radiates positivity and of him. curiosity; his small, plump body similar to the ketThe already incredible story is matched with tle he wears on his head. superb audio work. Fans of Lord of the Rings Every time I watch the series (which runs at may recognize Wirt’s voice as Elijah Wood, who around two hours in total), I become so attached voiced Frodo. Wood is extremely talented; he to each of the step-broth- When characters, sound and art come evokes so much fear in his ers. Wirt reminds me of together, the truly unique result is voice at times that it’s hard my insecure, old self who Over the Garden Wall’s atmosphere not to be afraid with him. was uncomfortable but that is full of both fear and wonder.

On the flip side, Greg’s good hearted. Greg is the voice actor, Collin Dean, embodiment of hope, full of new ideas and wanhas the uplifting, young voice that makes anyone derlust. The unique feeling you get when you see want to smile. a child explore the world for the first time is a conBehind the voices is one of my favorite stant one I get with whatever Greg does. soundtracks released to this point. The music Each episode is a vignette, or a small advensounds straight out of the early 19th century, ture, with a recurring plot and supporting cast. something that would be played out of an old You quickly meet characters like Beatrice, an enphonograph. Tracks are varied, with one of Greg’s chanted girl in the body of a bluebird, and the songs being about potatoes and molasses while Woodsman, a mysterious old man who cuts down others feature the resonant, baritone voice of the Edelwood trees to keep his lantern lit.

Beast. The strong soundtrack plays a key role in But with each set of heroes, we need our vilestablishing the atmosphere as the story takes us lain, and Over the Garden Wall provided me with from a river boat full of frogs to the Unknown.

Another key point of artistic genius for me is one of the most menacing villains I’ve come to the art style, directed by Nick Cross. Saturation see. The Beast doesn’t wield fear through cheap - the level of vibrancy of a color - is kept at a low scares, but through manipulation of the unknown for much of the story, used sparingly to highlight and the human mind. His shadowy presence and

items or moments of cheer. On the flipside, shades of brown and grey coats much of the mysterious world that the brothers explore, a reflection of the “dark fantasy” style of storytelling McHale aims for.

When characters, sound and art come together, the truly unique result is Over the Garden Wall’s atmosphere that is full of both fear and wonder. It captures our brightest inspirations and our darkest moments. It harnesses two entirely opposite ways of seeing life into a compelling and inspiring story.

Over the Garden Wall teaches us that as we look into the Unknown, we can look through a lens of adventure and wonder or one of anxiety and desperation. We can wander through it looking for home or we can embrace helplessness. But in the end, what separates us from joy or sorrow is whether or not the Beast makes his claim on us.

Stranger Things lives up to binge-worthy hype No ‘Troubled Times’ for Green Day’s new album Brigid Murphy asst. features editor

“Something’s coming. Something hungry for blood,” whispers Mike Wheeler after a silent first few minutes of the show. Not only does he foreshadow the anticipated drama of the Netflix original Stranger Things, but he also unknowingly predicts its wild popularity and quick nature of hooking hoards of T.V. watchers.

Stranger Things chronicles the story of Hawkins, Indiana after 11-year-old Will Byers mysteriously goes missing. After his disappearance, dark government agencies and sinister supernatural forces converge on the town. His mom, along with three friends and the police chief, become entangled in discovering what led to his vanishing.

As Will goes missing, a young girl with superhuman powers appears on the outskirts of town.

While searching the woods where their friend went missing, Mike, Lucas and Dustin find the girl, Eleven, and band together to find Will because she claims to know him.

Stranger Things truly exceeded my expectations of being just another summary dose of science fiction brain candy.

First, the young cast was stellar. In today’s slew of T.V. shows, we mostly see stories about 20-something women looking for “Mr. Right,” or comedies centering around men in the corporate world, which we teens and anyone under the age of 20 can’t relate to. Finally, we have preteen actors who are able to give much more convincing and moving roles than their adult counterparts on network television.

The character Eleven especially proved that young actors can give performances that rival any adult. With her very few lines, (the ones she did have were usually fragmented scraps of dialogue) she was still able to convey fear, doubt, sadness and love with only slight variations in that iconic stare.

Even the young boys, Mike, Lucas, Dustin and Will, gave great performances. Will was not in the show much, but his quiet innocence was winning;

oppositely, Mike successfully carried the bulk of the show’s plot, and he could easily switch from the sweet neighborhood boy to the valiant hero.

Lucas was the group’s skeptic, and Dustin was the voice of reason; both of them gave terrific performances for such young actors.

Finally, watching Stranger Things was a surmountable feat due to its length: eight episodes and each about an hour. Too many shows throw seasons at viewers with 20 plus episodes. How are we supposed to remember everything that happened from the conventional running time of September to June, usually with breaks in between, and how are we supposed to find time to watch 22 episodes? The decision to create a short season was greatly appreciated because once a show airs for too long it runs the risk of repetition and destroying its own momentum.

SPOILER ALERT: My one gripe about the show is that there are some obvious plot holes: the main one being what happened to Barb?! I don’t want to spoil anything for any readers out there who haven’t finished the show, but really writers: how can you just forget about her?

Will is not the only one lost in the Upside Down!

Stranger Things has now been out for three months, and as we continue further away from its release date, more and more people become hooked and, like myself, binge watch the show in record time. Now that we have all devoured the first season, we are just staring at Netflix wondering: what’s next for Hawkins? Thankfully (but obviously), the show was renewed for a second season, and we are all just as impatient for its arrival as Eleven is for her Eggos.

Sasha vassilyeva co-opinions editor

They always say that nothing can beat the original. This goes in terms of movies, T.V. series and music. With current events bringing new topics of discussion, controversies and trends, the thought of Green Day coming out with a new album that was able to adapt to the times seemed skeptical, but in their new album Revolution Radio, they incorporated current events in their music to create a revolutionary album.

Revolution Radio, released on Oct. 7, is by far the most intensely personal Green Day creation yet. Not only does it open a window to Billie Joe Armstrong’s inner struggles, the album also touches on political controversies, something they had done with previous albums such as American Idiot and 21st Century Breakdown.

This album also introduces some new style and sound through both vocals by Armstrong, and instrumentals by bassist Mike Dirnt and drummer Tré Cool. The trio played with the use of acoustic moments that translated into Green Day’s authentic, 90s punk rock sound, which brings fans back to the times of Dookie and Kerplunk.

The album’s opener, “Somewhere Now,” evolves from a gentle, acoustic tone to one that ignites Green Day’s original punk rock sound.

The lyrics capture a political message as Armstrong sings, “All we want is money and guns, a new catastrophe” and acts as a cry for help and action.

Previewing the album was lead single “Bang Bang,” which was released on Aug. 11. Written from the point of view of a mass shooter, it brings up the heavy topic of the rise in gun violence in the United States And though the theme of the song is one that may be difficult to address, Armstrong’s lyrics, “I get my kicks, and I want to start a rager” will have you raging along with the band.

The album’s title track “Revolution Radio,” brings up yet another political controversy. This song, Armstrong explained, was inspired by a Black Lives Matter protest that he had witnessed in New York and through the lyrics, “Testify for the life that’s been deleted,” the meaning behind

the song becomes pretty clear.

“Say Goodbye” focuses on violence in the U.S. — specifically police brutality. “Troubled Times” focuses on society’s lack of acceptance and the “troubled times” that might lie ahead with the presidential race on the horizon. All these songs use societal issues to create a politically-driven sound, one of my favorite things about both this album and the band as a whole.

“Outlaws,” one of the album’s more personal songs, switches back and forth from a softer piano to a rocking ballad about the days of the band’s childhood. The song not only highlights the band’s wild youth, but also shows the great pride Armstrong takes in their success.

The album’s final song, “Ordinary World,” was something I’ve never heard from Green Day before. The band transformed from an upbeat, rock to a moderate, acoustic vibe, which has led this song to become one of my favorites on the album.

“Ordinary World” acts as a beacon of hope for the “ordinary” who may feel out of place. “I don’t have much, but what we have is more than enough,” Armstrong sings, saying we don’t need much to have a good life in this “ordinary world.”

His words can make anyone feel a little more extraordinary and have a personal feel to them that makes them relatable to everyone.

From the first song to the last, Revolution Radio kept me on the edge of my seat and wanting to hear more. With lyrics both personal and political, and a sound that incorporated classic rock, acoustic styles and their own early punk rock sound, Green Day has truly outdone itself with this album. After staying quiet for four years, Green Day came out with a huge “bang bang,” leaving lyrics stuck in my head and a feeling of nostalgia in my heart.

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features

Nov. 4, 2016

South faculty works to guide students struggling with self harm

Illustration by Ala Jankowski

Abby Grant Brigid Murphy asst. features editors

To many South students, between the classroom walls lie homework assignments atop homework assignments. To other students, the area between these walls institutionalizes a place of love and friendship. And to another group of students, between these walls sprawl the essential helping hands to life-threatening problems: a myriad of mental health issues.

According to Social Worker David Hartman, South’s goal of establishing a safer environment is to help improve

the wellbeing of students who may be struggling emotionally. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), 50 percent of all lifetime cases of mental illness occur at the age of 14.

“We try to help kids be better students, be healthier students,” Hartman explained. “We’re focused on how mental health impacts kids in school. [....] We don’t purport to be a therapeutic school. [But for] the kids that need really significant assistance, we like to refer to community based practitioners.”

According to Josh Koo, Key Club

sponsor, teachers act as the foot soldiers in identifying students struggling with self harm tendencies that in need of help. Koo said that although he has had experience in the past in dealing with students who suffer with emotional health issues, he has not encountered a situation like this at South. However, he acknowledges its existence among the students at South.

“At South, I haven’t had a student [reach out to me] yet who does self harm, but I would be foolish to say it never happens,” Koo said. “I think there are so many stresses [and] pres-

sures that high schoolers face now, stay in touch with yourself. [...] It obviwhether it be emotional or academic, ously wasn’t fun going through a situso for some, [self harm] becomes an ation like that, but I knew that I had to do it, and I’m really glad that I did.” avenue for release.”

According to Roads, she was reloAs the Key Club sponsor, Koo creates club events specifically to combat cated to a community-wide program emotional health issues like self harm called Compass, located in Northbrook, after her time at the Highland and depression.

“We deal with things beyond the Park hospital. Roads described the physical, but also in the emotional,” facets of the program and how they Koo said. “That’s where GBS RAK, were the foundation of her improverandom acts of kindness, came from. ment toward happiness. “[Compass] focuses more on mindWe wanted to make sure we were able to put smiles on people’s faces [... ful activities and why you were admitso [we] can uplift them and support ted, and they help you get back into the flow of schoolwork,” Roads said. them].”

Looking back on her experience According to junior Amber Stewart*, her emotional health issues be- with Compass, Roads reflected on her before and afgan in middle Before [getting help from status ter receiving treatschool and conSouth], I felt alone, I felt from the thertinued on into like nobody was there to ment apeutic program and high school. listen or to help, or nobody South.

Stewart excared, or nobody could see “Before [getting plained how what I was going through.” help from South], I South guided - Anna Roads* felt alone, I felt like her through the smooth transition from middle school nobody was there to listen or to help, or nobody cared, or nobody could see to high school. “[We all] had a meeting and my what I was going through; it was just a parents were there, I was there, both feeling of complete loneliness,” Roads schools were there; we discussed fu- explained. “And after [attending Comture plans, new social workers, coun- pass], I felt like I had all the support selors, classes and special education in the world; [...] it was really gratifyoptions, so it was pretty organized ing.”

If you or someone you know are from the get go,” Stewart said.

According to Stewart, her meetings feeling depressed, or you know somewith her social worker have reflect- one who is committing self harm, ed a positive change in her. Stewart please call 847-486-4949 or fill out believes that her social worker’s as- the anonymous concern Google form sistance was valuable because she on the GBS website to get help. provided Stewart with alternative av- *Names have been changed enues to help cope with her indecisiveness.

Titan Concern “She doesn’t just give you advice; Center Online she will also give you options. So, it Reporting Form won’t just be like, ‘You have to do this [and that in order to recover],’” GBS Website > About Stewart explained. “[She will provide] > Student Services three different things [I] can do. It’s better [help] than I’ve had in the past because [now I] get to pick for [myself].”

In a similar situation, junior Anna Roads* recalled the beginning of a gradual decline in her emotional health over the course of a few months during sophomore year, leading to depression and anxiety. Roads explained how her first meeting with Hartman guided her onto a path of recovery. “[Hartman] saw me in the shape that I was, and he said, ‘Okay, I’m going to call your mom, and we’re going to get you admitted into Highland Park hospital,’” Roads explained. “I was there for five days, and I learned Graphics Graphics by

by Sophie Sophie Mason Mason and and Yoon Yoon Kim Kim a lot about how to be mindful, how to

GBS Anonymous Concern Hotline 847-486-4949

Environmental service unites student organizations in common goal

Sharon Kim Youjin Shon staff reporters

of environmental awareness this year.

“One thing Key Club wanted to do for a while [...] was our environmental committee,” Koo said. “They focus This year’s service theme for GBS on events that make impacts through clubs is centered around environmen- local environmental initiatives like tal awareness. In a time of rapid envi- cleaning up certain areas, or beautironmental change due to human activ- fying parks, or working to help Glenity, GBS students may be able to make brook South be more environmentally a lasting difference on the community, [green] with recycling initiatives.”

Junior Katheryn Woo, an environaccording to Lisa Pavic, AP Environmental Science teacher. Pavic believes mental committee board member, is planning projects and events to bring the time for change is now.

“We can’t keep ignoring that [envi- better environmental awareness to GBS. She is working to ronmental damage] is hapincorporate the student pening, and we can’t keep population in simple thinking that someone else steps around the school. will take care of it,” Pav“Outside the Lyceum ic said. “The little things there’s this white wall that all of us do can hopeand also [on] the dome fully add up. I hope that of the field house,” Woo kids realize that they can said. “We’re thinking of make a difference and they getting an outside prodon’t feel like they can’t jector there and then do something for this vast, we can project images huge earth.” that will catch people’s Key Club has begun to attention that can raise follow the service theme, environmental awareworking to make a differness. That can include ence in the community. anything ranging from Josh Koo, Key Club sponThe marker for the environmental facts or sor, was thrilled when road that South’s [the] next environmental Dr. Jim Shellard, assistant Interact Club has events that are coming principal of student activ“adopted”.

Photo by Imra Tajuddin up in Key Club.” ities, presented the matter

According to Woo, the environmental committee is also working on smaller, eye-catching displays. These displays will be presented indoors during lunch periods.

“We will have these hologram prisms that you can put on top of your phone [which] projects the hologram in the prism,” Woo said. “We’re thinking that we can project some environmental images there.”

Similarly, South’s Interact Club has also centered some service events around environmental awareness, according to Zach Cepeda, Interact president. One annual event that fits with the theme is the Beach Sweep, where members go to the Evanston beaches to pick up garbage.

“There’s a lot of garbage in [the] rocks that can be dangerous to animals and to people so it’s a really good opportunity to make a difference in the environment and the community,” Cepeda said. “[Also,] in the fall, we do an Adopt-a-Highway event.”

According to Cepeda, Interact has “adopted a highway,” that includes a section of Landwehr Road that stretches from West Lake to Willow Road. Cepeda says that members go out to clean this area two times a year.

“I’ve driven down the road after we’ve [cleaned] it and you can see how clean it is,” Cepeda said. “It’s re-

ally satisfying because after you put in a couple hours of bending over and picking up trash, it looks nice.”

Cepeda believes that focusing on environmental awareness is important because it teaches Interact members about why they’re working to make a difference, and that they have the potential to impact the community.

“Not all impacts are going to be huge,” Cepeda said. “We’re not all going to be solving global warming. As a small club at GBS, we’re not going to do that, but every step that we take to

make an impact is meaningful.”

Pavic hopes that once students are introduced to environmental awareness, a domino effect will take place in which students will continue to make a change.

“It doesn’t matter if you’re young or old or what [academic] level you’re at,” Pavic said. “Students really do care about changing. They just might not know how. Hopefully [these clubs will] give them the tools and opportunity to make a difference in the future.”

CLEANUP CREW: Posing with bags of trash, Interact members proudly display their success in cleaning a portion of Landwehr road. Interact and other clubs at South have planned several environmental awareness-based service projects. Photo courtesy of Lily Sands

features

Nov. 4, 2016

9

Humans of the Halls

South’s take on Humans of New York Illustration by Sarah Warner

South financial aid recipients face stigma; school responds, works to provide relief

Graphic by Sohpie Mason

Q: If you you could meet one person, dead or alive, who would it be?

Alexandra sharp co-features editor

According to Mohammed-Rafee, a bookstore employee responded to her request with “how smart of you”, which Mohammed-Rafee felt gave a negative connotation regarding her family’s Field trips. School supplies. Standardized tests. According to economic status. “[Their] attitude made it seem like I was cheating the school or some South students, it is easy to forget how often a public school in an upper-middle class society comes with price tags. However, [...] taking every advantage I could of the financial aid,” Mohamfor many South students, financial difficulties and the label that med-Rafee said. “[It was like they thought] the school offers me help and [...] I took all of it and maybe more.” comes with them are a constant worry.

When attempts were made to address this alleged situation According to Dr. Lara Cummings, assistant principal for student services, 19.73 percent of South students receive free or re- with the bookstore, the representative decined to comment and duced services. Students who receive these services meet guide- disregarded the claims towards the employee.

With this stigma in mind, Cummings’ goal is to make every lines that help them purchase academic materials and lunch plans at a reduced cost. In order to appropriately help these students, student’s experience at South the same regardless of their ecoDr. Jim Shellard, assistant principal of student activities, works to nomic situation.

“There were times [at South] that [Shellard and I] witnessed grant economic assistance to all areas of student interest.

“I would like to think that opportunities exist for all students in [...] kids having to walk into the bookstore and say, ‘But I’m free the school to do whatever it is that they want to do,” Shellard said. and reduced’ or it was called [to the] attention [of] other students or around other parents,” Cummings said.

“There are financial limitations but at the “There are people that are going “And we just felt very strongly that that’s same time, I think [South] tries to go the to judge you regardless. [...] But you not appropriate. Whatever their reason is extra yard to try to find ways that we can don’t really need those people in for qualifying, that’s confidential and it’s provide for those students.” your life. [...] I need [financial aid] and personal.”

A recipient of South’s free materials program, senior Nurul Hana MohamI get it, and I’m thankful that I get it.” Many South students also believe a stigma exists towards need-based college med-Rafee, can attest that South’s finan- Senior Yoana Sidzhimova scholarships. For Sidzhimova, this stigma cial aid policy alleviates stress inflicted on families struggling economically. According to Mohammed-Ra- affected her experience applying for Questbridge, a scholarship fee, receiving financial aid her sophomore year eased the burden that helps high academic-achieving students pay for top universities in the United States. According to Sidzhimova, she was in a that school costs placed on her parents.

“There was a lot that I wouldn’t ask my parents for freshmen car with fellow students that referred to Questbridge students as year that I could do sophomore year, like go on [...] field trips,” “poor people” who “didn’t deserve to go to [their] school [...] beMohammed-Rafee said. “Sometimes [field trips can cost] 20 dol- cause they are not financially capable of paying for college,” unlars and I would have to ask my parents [for money]. [...] I would aware that Sidzhimova was a Questbridge applicant herself.

“Sitting through that car ride was the most excruciating thing feel bad for asking, but financial aid [now] covers [my] field trips.”

According to senior Yoana Sidzhimova, there is a stigma asso- ever,” Sidzhimova said. “It was so disgusting, [...] and I hate peociated with students who receive financial aid. Although, she per- ple who [think that] just because [their] family’s well-off, [they] sonally tries to combat this negativity by being open about her sit- can’t see the value in the opportunities that are present to [low income families]. [...] You might be low-income, but that does not uation, she admits to sometimes fearing judgement from others. “[...] A lot of people are insecure about [their financial assis- in any way, shape or form diminish your ability to perform acatance], and there’s that fear of how people are going to see me demically or in any extracurricular clubs.”

According to Cummings, if a student is struggling financially, differently if they know I am receiving financial aid,” Sidzhimova said. “There are people that are going to judge you regardless. [...] they should talk to someone trusted in the building. She says that But you don’t really need those people in your life. [...] I need [fi- whether their economic situation affects their time at South or their ability to afford college, there are policies at South to help. nancial aid] and I get it, and I’m thankful that I get it.”

Sidzhimova is an example of a student who reached out to staff Agreeing with Sidzhimova, Mohammed-Rafee not only rec- members at South she trusted to discuss her financial worries. Acognizes that a stigma against cording to Sidzhimova, she believes one’s economic status should low-income families exists, not foster feelings of shame for there are many students at South but also has experienced it who are in a similar situation.

“Being in a low-income family, one, isn’t something you can herself, at South. This stigma affected her when control and, two, shouldn’t be something that has you identify she attempted to pur- with a different social group,” Sidzhimova said. “[...] There’s a lot chase a driver’s edu- of other people who are getting [financial aid], and we should be cation textbook under totally open and talking about it and realizing that it [helps] a lot her free materials of our friends.”

South’s financial aid packages cover academic services, but policy. in many instances, not extracurricular or athletic materials. This affects Sidzhimova, who finds it difficult to pay for Model UnitStatistics courtesy of Dr. Lara Cummings ed Nations conferences. According to Sidzhimova, her position as president allows her to see a different side of receiving financial aid.

“As president, you sometimes see people just say [it’s okay to ask for aid] to make you go to their club, but it’s not a lie,” Sidzhimova said. “[...] When our school says they don’t limit opportunities based on any financial problem, that’s so true. And I can attest ts den stu of South for that with Model UN.” receive reduced materials

Covering the Cost South's stats on financial aid

A: “I’d meet Albert Einstein. [...] I’d ask him about what it was like to come over [to the United States] because he fled Germany [while] the nazis were coming to power.

[I’d ask him about] the process of how he came up with his theories.”

- Sophomore Henry Smith

A: “It would probably be Abraham Lincoln.

I think it would be interesting to feel the world in his persective, how he felt about slavery, how he felt about his crazy wife and I just think he’s an outstanding president.”

- Para-professional Vicky Henderson

14.76%

4.97

%

and/or lunch

Graphic by Yoon Kim

of rece South s tu d e ive f n ree mat ts and/ er or l unch ials Grap

hic b y Yoo

n Kim

A: “I would probably meet my grandparents because I never [had the chance to meet] them. I would like to spend time with them and learn about them also.”

- Freshman Monica Vazquez

ELECTION

10

WHO WILL YOU VOTE FOR? Photo courtesy of Rich Girard (Flickr)

MOCK ELECTION RESULTS *

Hillary Clinton & Tim Kaine Democratic Party

45%

Donald Trump & Mike Pence Republican Party

35%

Gary Johnson & Bill Weld Libertarian Party

Jill Stein & Ajamu Baraka Green Party

9%

5%

Results courtesy of the League of

Women Voters

*The League of Women Voters and AP Government and Politics students organized a mock election in the Student Actvities Office on Oct. 6 to determine their choice president. In total, 665 South students and staff members participated.

BIG TICKET ITEMS: South’s most passionate * issues ALEXANDRA SHARP co-features editor

So cia Rig l hts

Gu Co n ntr ol

Hillary Clinton

Donald Trump

Hillary Clinton

Donald Trump

Promote full equality for the LGBT+ community

Remove legality of the current same sex marriage law

Expand background checks

End violent actions against women, and encourage Planned Parenthood services

Stop federal financing of Planned Parenthood

Revoke business licenses from gun dealers who break the law

Protect the Second Amendment, which is the right to bear arms

Allow private businesses to have the ability to deny someone a service based on religious beliefs

Keep guns away from domestic abusers, criminals and the severely mentally ill

Reform the criminal justice system to prevent possible racism

*Based on a non-scientific Oracle-conducted survey of 351 students polling what issues South students feel are most important to them.

Source: www.isidewith.com

End government interference in choosing what types of arms are allowed to be carried Establish the right to carry a weapon Sources: www.hillaryclinton.com/issues www.donaldjtrump.com/policies

POLLING POPU

47.5%

A Glance at Candidate Favorability through t

DEBATE 1

Graphic by Vector Open Stock

TRUMP:

Sept. 26 Hofstra University Hempstead, NY

DEBATE 2

Oct. 2 41.5%

“My tax cut is the biggest since Ronald Reagan. I’m very proud of it. It will create tremendous numbers of new jobs.”

FACT CHECK: A recent analysis from the Tax Foundation said that the top 1 percent could see their incomes increase by up to 16 percent. The bottom four quintiles would see their incomes grow by 1.9 percent or less.

CLINTON:

Oct. 9 Washington University St. Louis, MO

“Now I believe in community policing and in fact, violent crime is one half of what it was in 1991.”

FACT CHECK: FBI data reports that violent crime increased by 4 percent between 2014 and 2015 with murders rising by 11 percent, but crime researchers said violence still remains low compared to 20 years ago.

Trump:

“Trading with other countries, we had 800 billion dollars defici FACT CHECK: According to the United States Census Bureau, the 2015 foreig

Clinton: some of the things that are being said and done in this campaig “I’ve heard from lots of teachers and parents about some of

FACT CHECK: The Southern Poverty Law Center said that more than 2/3 of te dents having expressed fears about what might happen to them

SECTION

11

South students shed light on their choice candidates MADDY Ruos co-features editor

ing big, there’s nothing wrong with that. Dreaming big. Thinking big. we’re having refugees come to this country, we should at least do some [more in-depth] background checks before letting them in just That’s what [we] need in this country.”

Throughout the months leading up to the election, policy debates to make sure that it’s safe to allow them in. And with people comWith a record number of Americans paying attention to the up- between the two candidates have revealed their differences on a ing illegally to [this] country, they’re taking jobs that could be set for coming 2016 presidential election, South students take time to re- number of issues. According to Shapiro, Clinton’s plan to address cli- other Americans.” flect on the candidates involved and the rhetoric surrounding their mate change resolutions is a major positive of her candidacy and a Unlike Khamoo, senior Yoana Sidzhimova takes offense to campaigns. Nov. 8, Election Day, is predicted to be filled with debate major negative of Trump’s.

Trump’s hard-line immigration platform as well as his comments and will ultimately end with a new President of the United States.

“Clinton is somebody who would promote [Obama’s] policies against women and other minority groups. However, she has chosen Senior Dani Revello says her decision to support Hillary Clinton and even advocate for further legislation in order to mitigate climate to not support Hillary Clinton either because of lingering questions was made much easier by Clinton’s qualifications for the job as well change and reduce carbon dioxide emissions,” Shapiro said. “Four and distrust regarding her use of a private email server while she was as her calm demeanor while debating Donald Trump, the Republican years is a long time and if Trump were elected, I don’t think we Secretary of State for President Barack Obama. According to Sidzhicandidate, during the three presidential debates. would see any kind of progress in terms of climate change. I don’t mova, each candidate has flaws that stop her from supporting them.

“I think [her experience] is going to make it a lot easier for her think he cares about it.”

“When you look at one candidate who is very sexist, very racist to transition from Secretary of State to President [because] she has Moshe, passionate about economic issues, cites Trump’s back- and clearly not open, and then you look at another candidate [who] served over 30 years for the U.S. governground as President and Chairman of The isn’t as trustworthy as some think and has a lot of controversies un“I think [Clinton’s experience] is going to Trump Organization as well as his reality der [her] belt, none of those things should be something that a presiment and she has done way more good than [harm],” Revello said. make it a lot easier for her to transition TV show, The Apprentice, as evidence of dent has,” Sidzhimova said.

Like Revello, senior Max Shapiro has Sidzhimova claims that her inability to support either candidate Trump’s financial success. from Secretary of State to President [bechosen to support Democratic nominee “He’s given so many people opportuni- comes from the fact that neither party’s platforms address her conHillary Clinton because of her extencause] she has served over 30 years for ties on his show, and he’s employed over cerns as a younger voter. According to Sidzhimova, both the Repubsive experience in public service. Shapeople, which is what this country lican and the Democratic party have moved farther away from bithe U.S. government and she has done 30,000 piro also cites her involvement with inneeds because we don’t want our country to partisan reform and compromise. Sidzhimova believes that both the way more good than [harm].” ternational leaders on issues facing the go into a high unemployment rate,” Moshe Republican Party and the Democratic Party should try harder to nation and the world as one of Clinton’s - Senior Dani Revello, Clinton supporter said. “This is the land of opportunity for a work together within the government. strengths.

“The problem with both of the parties is that [...] what we should reason, and we want everyone to have that “She’s a Democrat, and what is most important to me is that libbe doing is coming towards common ground and finding more modopportunity.” eral values are passed on and carried,” Shapiro said. “I also think According to Revello, Clinton’s historic nomination as the first erate policies in both of the parties to [support] more citizens,” Sidthat she has a lot of experience and a lot of knowledge of policy, and woman to run for President nominated by a zhimova said. “That’s the exact oppo“[Trump has] given so many people op- site of what’s going on. Both parties are she is somebody who would be able to [...] talk with foreign leaders major political party was a special moment. about real pressing issues.”

Revello predicts that if Clinton was to win portunities on his show, and he’s em- radically changing, and [...] I don’t think Unlike both Revello and Shapiro, senior Ashur Moshe became a the election, her position would continue to either candidate [represents] the parployed over 30,000 people, which is what ties’ [original platforms].”

Donald Trump supporter as a direct result of his frustration with tra- help other women gain confidence. ditional “career politicians” like Hillary Clinton, whom he claims fail Unlike Sidzhimova, Shapiro believes “It really is super important to me that this country needs.” to enact meaningful progress. that while both Trump and Clinton may she is a woman,” Revello said. “[She is] just Senior Ashur Moshe, Trump supporter “People are sick and tired of the same politicians that we elect, transcending everything, breaking that glass have their weaknesses, in the end there and they get nothing done, [which is] why I like [Donald Trump] and ceiling, just being the woman [that other] women need to look up to will be one clear winner of the presidency. Shapiro feels that choosmany others like him too,” Moshe said. ing a candidate should be based on their respective abilities to serve and just everything that we need in this time with Donald Trump.”

Supporting Trump, according to Moshe, was an obvious decision In contrast, senior Julius Khamoo feels Donald Trump would be the general population and the issues that matter most to American because of Trump’s clear goals to improve the mentality and condi- the best President for the country because of his firm stance on im- citizens. tions of American citizens, particularly in the middle class.

“Politicians are not supposed to be set on [the same ideals] migration and U.S. intake of refugees from countries in the Middle “What Trump’s really aiming for [...] is he wants the middle class East. throughout the entirety of their careers,” Shapiro said. “I think the to be good,” Moshe said. “He wants you to have a good life; he “The hometown that [...] all of my family members are from was point of democracy is to reflect the public’s opinions. It’s not to rewants you to be successful, [...] and that’s really good because think- destroyed because of these radical Islamists,” Khamoo said. “If flect the leader’s opinions; it’s to reflect what the people want.”

Fight terrorist propaganda online, and protect U.S. privacy Support law enforcement and first responders at home

Defeat ISIS and eliminate radical Islamic terrorism

Ease the pathway to full citizenship Give refugees seeking asylum a chance to state their case

Strengthen military and intelligence abilities

“Humanely” detain individuals posing a threat to the U.S.

Temporarily suspend immigration from nations with terrorism

Sources: www.hillaryclinton.com/issues www.donaldjtrump.com/policies

ULARITY

the Three Debates

it. That’s hard to believe. Inconceivable.” gn trade deficit was $531.5 billion.

their concerns [about inappropriate behavior], about gn.” eachers in a recent poll they conducted reported stum or their families after the election.

Donald Trump

Hillary Clinton

Hillary Clinton

Donald Trump

Promote U.S. wages by giving open jobs to Americans first

Make all community colleges have free tuition

Build a wall along the U.S. southern border that Mexico will pay for

Increase the federal minimum wage to 15 dollars per hour

Detain all illegal immigrants using various levels of law enforcement

Sources: www.hillaryclinton.com/issues www.donaldjtrump.com/policies

Reduce small businesses’ and working families’ taxes

Make universities lower student debt with federal tax breaks Add 1.2 million jobs with every one percent GDP growth Reduce taxes for the working and middle classes

Sources: www.hillaryclinton.com/issues www.donaldjtrump.com/policies

wi a

Defeat ISIS with a unified airforce strategy using a coalition of allies

n

lN

Donald Trump

tio

ve Sp r n m en d in e n t g

by Ra ch e

mi gra

Symbols courtesy of Creative Commons

Hillary Clinton

Go

Im

Gr ap hi cs

Ter r Na orism Se tiona / cu ri t l y

48.5% 43.9%

DEBATE 3

Oct. 18

Oct. 19 University of Nevada - Las Vegas Las Vegas, NV

Oct. 31

Trump:“[Some New Hampshire residents’] single biggest problem is heroin that pours across our southern borders.”

FACT CHECK: The Drug Enforcement Administration says that since 2007, the threat posed by heroin is causing a greater number of overdose deaths.

38.8%

Clinton: “[My fiscal plan] does not add a penny to the national debt.”

FACT CHECK: Clinton’s financial plan is projected to add $200 billion to the national debt over a decade, which is a “relatively small amount” compared to the current debt of $18.1 trillion, according to The Washington Post.

42.1% Graphic by Maddy Ruos

Poll courtesy of Huffington Post General Election Poll Tracking Model

12

halloween

Nov. 4, 2016

TITAN TERRORS

On Halloween, the a&e editors hosted the sixth annual Oracle costume contest, where South students expressed their individuality by dressing up in costumes ranging from creative to creepy. The editors would like to recognize the best of them below.

LEAH DUNNE & CASSIDY JACKSON

AAKASH BHOJWANI & JOSIE SCHNEIDER

co-a&e editors

asst. a&e editors

Photos by Yoon Kim and Rachel Nwia

MOST LIKELY TO...

These superatives given by the A&E editors to students that volunteered to be photographed for the issue.

BE SENT TO CAMP GREEN LAKE

HAVE MOOD SWINGS HOLES JACK WHETSTONE, JUST IN NAA L,

JARED GERSHOW ITZ

OO SCOOBYD GANG: JORDAN T SA M MY HERIAULT C BR EN D OW H EY AN ALEC SA FONT ILLAS NCHEZ

ENT Y D SON

L RVEAN W I

HA

NAT

H

BE THE CUTEST OFFICE COUPLE

WIN A BAMBOO EATING CONTEST

PA N

AU DA G LO I E M POS RI IK S JOS STEF ELL E J U L H K F EL K A I A S OO SI A U L KR TZ OS NIA K

PAM AN FROM TH D JIM E OFFICE JACK R ILEY YA EL SH EI N FELD

DINE AND DASH AT A RESTAURANT

THROW A TEA PARTY BREX

ADA I

R MC IT MAH

ON

MA AN

DH

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features

Nov. 4, 2016

13

Student, teacher viewpoints differ on use of online literary resources yoon Kim Augie Mikell staff reporters With 15 minutes before the start of class, a student scrambles to open his Chromebook and immediately jumps onto his Sparknotes bookmark. As the clock continues to tick, his eyes skim faster and faster across the screen, trying to cram everything written into his head. Suddenly, the dreaded sound of the ringing bell. He anxiously steps into the classroom with a lump in his throat, praying that Sparknotes won’t let him down.

Sophomore Sarah Groose is one of numerous students at South who use online resources, such as Shmoop and Sparknotes to help her in class. According to Groose, she uses Sparknotes for English because it helps her navigate through more complicated texts, such as those written by Shakespeare.

“I am really bad at translating [Shakespeare’s] writing into [common] English, so [Sparknotes] really helps,” Groose said. “A lot of times I don’t get all the points or I’ll read it again and I’m like, ‘Oh, I totally missed this big event and I don’t even know it happened,’ so it helps me pass my tests.”

According to junior Drew Feldstein, another student at South who uses Sparknotes, he believes that using these online resources responsibly does not violate the rules of academic dishonesty at South.

“If [the student is] using [Sparknotes] as a complete substitute, then it’s insufficient for studying,” then that’s their Feldstein said. “But [if they’re] using opinion and I [Sparknotes] as a minor, makeshift think that stustudy guide just to touch over some dents should valthings before the quiz or test, then I ue the teacher’s don’t think there’s anything wrong opinion more with that.” than [their own].”

Although Feldstein views using Similar to Sparknotes as acceptable as long Percent of Sout Feldstein, freshh st udents that us e Sparknotes as the individual uses them approor Schmoop re man Kevin Meier gularly, accord ing to a re cent priately, he also believes that the nonscient ific Or agrees that Sparacle poll of 29 8 st udents permission for using Sparkknotes should not notes or any other online be used as a substiresource ultimately tute for reading the depends on the real texts assigned in class. According teacher and to Meier, the online their rules. resource should be uti“I think lized for more pointed the teachGraph ic by R and specific reasons. er has a right to achel Nwia “I think if you’re using [permit or forbid the use of [Sparknotes] in a way that vioSparknotes] because it’s their class [and] lates what you’re supposed to be their rules,” Feldstein said. “The students should doing -- like you were supposed to read but you just abide by what they say, and I think the teachers are look at the notes instead -- I think that goes against setting these rules for the betterment of the students. [the assignment],” Meier explained. “But I think if If [the teacher thinks] that Sparknotes is inefficient,

72%

Photo illustration by Sophie Mason

you just need to have reference or [want] to get a new perspective, I don’t think it violates [academic honesty policies].”

Despite these online resources having helped students such as Groose and Feldstein in their classes, senior Isabel Spingola says she isn’t a fan. According to Spingola, she chooses not to use Sparknotes because she believes it’s too drawn-out in detail.

“A lot of people use the excuse that Sparknotes is shorter than reading the actual book or actual chapters that we have to read,” Spingola said. “In my opinion, I don’t think it’s shorter and actually think it’s pretty lengthy. It’s a significant amount where I feel like it’s more worth it to read the book and get my way through reading the chapter instead of using Sparknotes to sum up the chapter for me.”

Along with Spingola, English teacher Robert Wysocki says that he doesn’t want his students to use these online resources in his class. However, Wysocki does support a part of Shmoop known as College 101, which is designed to help students going into college.

“There’s a section of [Shmoop] where it gives kids advice on their college essays,” Wysocki said. “That is helpful as a starting point because it has a list of sample essays that are posible pitfalls to avoid.”

On the other hand, English teacher John Allen has a different viewpoint. According to Allen, he opposes these online resources and believes that using such websites detracts from his students’ learning.

“I understand that there would be a tendency to use [online resources],” Allen said. “However, I firmly believe that they short-circuit learning in one of the most important things a human needs to learn, which is how to use language well, how to read complex expression, and, most importantly, how to enjoy a beautiful form of art: literature.”

According to Allen, online resources take away the beauty of learning through experience. He thinks that when a student turns to Sparknotes, the translated version conveys a lackluster interpretation of the art of storytelling, and the student is at a disadvantage because the writing has lost its style.

“When we are reading a novel, we’re reading the intentional construction of power, beautiful language and the experience of that artful language and storytelling is what is unique to books and literature,” Allen said. “If you go to Sparknotes or No Fear Shakespeare, the art of language and the art of storytelling has been stripped from the text completely, and now you are not experiencing and learning how to appreciate and enjoy [the writing].”

Eleven-year-old Abeysiriwardena exemplifies GBS spirit through involvement Leah Dunne co-a&e editor From juggling in juggling club, debating global issues in Model UN and trying new teas in Tea Club, to introducing the freshman class at the 2016 Homecoming pep rally, freshman class president Anish Abeysiriwardena’s passion for South runs high.

This enthusiam translates through the 11-year-old’s involvement in various clubs and activities around South.

According to Abeysiriwardena, growing up he went through preschool, kindergarten and initially first grade at the normal rate, but realized at the beginning of second grade that he was not being challenged academically. Abeysiriwardena added that after testing out of second grade, he was bumped up to only third grade and then completed all of third grade, and the beginning of fourth grade before his parents made the decision to put him into homeschooling.

“Because [my elementary school] could not accommodate [moving up additional grade levels], I was taken out of that school to be home schooled, and was put in seventh grade,” Abeysiriwardena said.

“I continued homeschooling for a couple of years, but then I [realized] I wanted to come back to a normal high school.”

According to Abeysiriwardena, he was very eager to come to high school from being homeschooled for many years, from hearing about GBS from his brother, Niam, who graduated in 2016. Abeysiriwardena explained that although there were benefits of homeschooling, such as not having peer pressure or bullying, a small setback of it was a lack of social structure, which was an aspect of high school he was most looking forward to experiencing.

“My brother went [to South] last year, and he said that it was absolutely awesome, so I, of course, wanted to come [to GBS],” Abeysiriwardena said. “I was most excited for the clubs, activities, the amazing school environment, the large campus. It’s [all] pretty cool.”

One of the first activities that Abeysiriwardena decided to become involved with at South was Student Council. According to Abeysiriwardena, Student Council was not something he was initially interested in, but his peers encouraged him to run for a position. Abeysiriwardena explained that because of his friends he was able to find his passion for leading others.

“Once I got settled in [at South], a bunch of my friends kept on saying, ‘Hey you should run for freshman class president, you should do this,’” Abeysiriwardena said. “I really felt it would be nice to be in a political position and help represent the freshman class.”

According to Dr. Jim Shellard, student activities director and sponsor of Student Council, he had the opportunity to work with Abeysiriwardena throughout the election process which allowed him to see the enthusiasm that Abeysiriwardena had about South. Shellard noted how he saw this passion through Abeysiriwardena’s role in both the lip dub and Homecoming.

“When I suggested that maybe [Anish] be in that bouncy room at the beginning of the lip dub, some people might have thought, ‘Hmm, I don’t know how I feel about that,’ but he was eager [to have a part in the lip dub],” Shellard said. “And during Homecoming, [Anish] fired up the freshman class. There were more freshman [at pep rally] than anybody else in the room.”

According to Shellard, Abeysiriwardena was responsible for leading in the construction of the freshman class float throughout the week leading up to Homecoming. Charlie Kuhn, freshman class appointed representative, explained that as he assisted in the construction of the freshman float throughout the week, he consistently saw Abeysiriwardena’s enthusiasm and involvement at South. “[Anish] always works very hard and is always trying to find something to do,” Kuhn said. “[Anish] is always asking if he can jump in and help. For example, [during float construction] when I was cutting

“Anish is not what necessarily meets the eye, he is so much more. [Anish] is a great friend in many respects: he has a lot of resources, a lot of knowledge which allows us to make great conversation and talk for hours and hours.”

- Freshman Michael Roytman

Freshman Fervor: Showing off the work done on the freshman float, Anish Abeysiriwardena, freshman class president, admires the spirit of his new school. Abeysiriwardena transferred to GBS this fall at the age of eleven, and has taken advantage of the various extracurriculars offered. Photo courtesy of Anish Abeysiriwardena

some motors for the float, he would always ask, ‘Can I help?’, ‘Can I do this?’[...] He was always very enthusiastic about his work [on the float].”

Similar to Shellard and Kuhn, Michael Roytman, freshman class appointed representative, sees this same passion that Abeysiriwardena has for the school translated into the classroom in regards to his attitude about learning and working with his peers.

According to Roytman, he consistently sees Abeysiriwardena collaborating and assisting his peers in Honors Biology when they need help.

“In our bio class, when people are having a hard time, [Anish] will come over [to help them], not necessarily by giving them the answer, but moreso by explaining [the content] of what is in the question [they are being asked],” Roytman explained. “[Anish] is more like a people person. He takes care of people and he loves people. [Anish] is a very open

minded person and tries to help [others] in any way he can.”

Roytman additionally explained that even though Abeysiriwardena is younger than him and their peers, he believes Abeysiriwardena is so much more than what someone might perceive him to be at first glance simply because of his age. According to Roytman, Abeysiriwardena alters the impression people may have of him through his positive attitude and enthusiasm.

“Anish is not what necessarily meets the eye, he is so much more,” Roytman said. “[Anish] is a great friend in many respects: he has a lot of resources, a lot of knowledge which allows us to make great conversation and talk for hours and hours ... I’m not even going to say that he is 11 [years old] because that is just offensive to him. [Anish] is just like one of us, and that’s it.”

14

features

Nov. 4, 2016

South BPA students strive for excellence in business world Amanda Tener Zhaneta Petra staff reporters

Every year, students across the nation with a strong passion for business spend time collaborating with their fellow peers in local Business Professionals of America (BPA) clubs. At South, BPA club is dedicated to providing students with business exposure while they prepare to show off their skills at annual competitions.

According to Rosie McManamon, Business Education teacher and BPA advisor, BPA was created to give students an idea of what it’s like to be a professional in the working world. McManamon expressed how BPA meetings and competitions help develop leadership skills amongst club members that serve to benefit them in the future.

“It gives [students] an experience that they can take with them, really depending on what events that they choose to compete in,” McManamon said. “[...] With business being the number one major in college, I thought this would be a club that kids could benefit from.”

According to McManamon, South BPA club members are offered a choice of over 50 events for each of the three competitions they attend annually, which consist of Regionals, State, and Nationals. McManamon explained that each event is structured around a business-related topic where students showcase their skills.

“Depending on what the competitions are, [the topic] may be a research paper the student [must present], it may be an accounting test, it may be a graphic design that they created and have to present,” Mcmanamon said. “In that regard, it’s very much an individual [competition],” According to junior BPA member Sarah Briggs, members participating in competition may be rewarded with one of the seven Torch Awards.

Briggs explained the significance of gaining points in order to be recognized worthy of these medals.

“The four levels of recognition [...] range from Executive, where students who qualify are described as ‘a person having administrative [...] authority in an organization’ to the highest award level, Ambassador,” Briggs explained. “As an Ambassador, you can be defined as ‘a diplomatic official of the highest rank.’”

Briggs explained that the Torch Awards serve more than one evident purpose. According to Briggs, this compilation of awards serve to inspire members to achieve nothing less than excellence. “[The awards] not only [give us] points for rec-

Titans with trophies: After a victory, South’s former 2015-2016 BPA team poses at the BPA State Competition held in Oakbrook, Illinois during March of 2016. The trophy, referred to as the Professional Cup, was won by South’s BPA team for being the most outstanding BPA chapter in Illinois. Photo courtesy of Rosie McManamon

ognition, but [they] promote professionalism and nizations, according to Briggs, Velis says he has leadership within our communities through career made many friends through the club. According development and personal growth,” Briggs said. to Velis, it’s easy to form relationships at BPA Similarly to Briggs, senior BPA member Alex competitions because of the wide representation Velis was one of the four South qualifiers at Naof students who participate. tionals last year. Velis de“It’s something that expands “I wish there were [more scribed this experience as a throughout the U.S.,” Velis said. memorable moment in BPA. members] in the club because “At Nationals, there were kids “My best experience 39 different states. [Every they don’t really know what from [with the club] was going to student] has a pin from their Nationals last year in Bosstate and we trade pins with they’re missing. There’s ton,” Velis explained. “There each other. You’re able to estabsomething for everyone.” were signs in the airport lish friendships that can carry - Senior Alex Velis welcoming us, a bunch of on afterwards.” stuff around the city for us In addition to the competito do, [including going] to the Fenway Ballpark tion aspect, McManamon described the attenStadium one night. It was a big deal.” tion club members contribute to service projects.

Although BPA is one of South’s smaller orga- According to McManamon, she encourages this

philanthropy and feels it positively impacts BPA. “[BPA] participates in a lot of service projects, anything from raising money for Breast Cancer Awareness, to participating in the Letters for Santa [program],” McManamon said. “The Special Olympics is our State and National service project; we raise money for them.”

Velis believes the appeal of BPA comes from its wide range of events for students with a lot of different interests. According to Velis, the club’s preparation for the working world in the future can make it enjoyable and useful for everyone.

“It’s definitely a fun club,” Velis said. “And I wish there were [more members] in the club because they don’t really know what they’re missing. There’s something for everyone. [Sometimes] we kind of think of business like accounting [only] but there is [truly an event] for everybody.”

a&e

15 Artist Alert Nov. 4, 2016

Each issue, Artist Alert features a different creative and talented aspiring artist or entertainer in the GBS community.

JoSiE Schneider asst. a&e editor

Advantaged kids are cool

Photo by Sophie Mason

Junior Gina Kim rewards herself with breaks throughout the day by writing, specifically poetry. While Kim does not take any writing classes at South and writes purely for the fun of it, she submits some of her pieces to Calliope and is a poetry editor.

Miracle makers: Pointing at freshman Abby Neptun, elves junior Erin Kirby, sophomore Becky Jacobson, freshman Luke Kirby, and junior Marina Madsen dance and joke with Neptun on stage of the fall play Miracle on 34th Street. The play’s storyline follows Kris Kringle, Macy’s hired Santa, who is soon put on trial after claiming he’s the real Santa Claus. Photo by Rachel Nwia

Miracle on 34th Street presents positive message

they had me read for the role of Susan, I just felt way more comfortable. It went really well, susie you and I was proud of myself.” staff reporters According to junior Marina Madsen, who plays the role of an elf, one of the biggest This year’s fall play Miracle on 34th Street challenges that the cast faced is coordinating took the audience on a journey to belief, ac- schedules and encouraging all of the people cording to Director Beth Ann Barber. Accord- to do their individual work outside of school. ing to Barber, Miracle on 34th Street was a “A lot [was] just great introduction to the rest of the year’s the- getting everyone ater productions. together,” Madsen “It’s the first show of the year,” Barber said. “We [had] a said. “We try to do a large show together with really large cast, a lot of students involved.” and getting everyAs the director, Barber explains that she is one together to responsible for choosing the theme and ulti- practice and then their mately chose Miracle on 34th Street because remember lines [was] a chalof its positive message.

“This play, yes, is about a man who thinks lenge.”

Being a part of he’s Santa Claus, but ultimately, what this show is about is if we believe in the good in the play was a huge people,” Barber said. “The outcome is really commitment concerning rehearsals states Barber. great.”

“We [rehearsed] almost every day after According to sophomore Jack Taylor who played drunken Santa, a caroler and Mr. school and [...] started on the weekends as Bloomingdale, the cast wanted the audience well,” Barber said. “[We went] [...] at it since the first week of school. Not every student to walk away with a smile.

“Just to see that a big group of kids really [had] to be there every day, but the leads pretworked extremely hard to put a great show to- ty much [did] every day. So, [it was] a pretty big commitment and a lot of the students gether will put you in a great mood and make [were] involved in other things [such as] band you walk away smiling and have a little more or speech team, [but] [acting] is their passion.” faith in humanity,” Taylor said.

Time is the key to success for the play, acAs the curtains closed, junior Erin Kirby, cording to Madsen. Rehearsals are helpful bewho played the role of an elf, says that she cause the actors and actresses can get hopes the audience took away an the majority of their work during uplifting message. that time.

“It’s a positive message “A lot of it [was] just about community,” Kirsetting aside extra time by said. “It doesn’t to get lines memorized matter who you think and getting everyone you are as long as to be there on time,” you give back Madsen said. “Mostto your commuly though, [it was] nity and unite. nice because a lot It’s a beautiful of the work that [we message that anydid was] during one can enjoy.” rehearsals, so Freshman Abby Nep[we got] evtun played the role of erything done Susan. Susan is one of in that time and the main characters in there [wasn’t] a the play and doesn’t beton of stuff to do at lieve in Santa Claus inihome.” tially. Neptun says that Graphic by Rachel Nwia Senior Jordan Zelvin playing the role of Susan felt comfortable and played the role of Doris natural to her while other roles didn’t click Walker. She explains that before every perforwith her. mance, Barber gave the cast encouraging pep “It was very nerve racking, I have to say, talks to energize them. when I first read from the script,” Neptun “She tells us that we’re her Miracle on 34th said. “I thought I did so badly, and then when Street and every day we make her more and emma morris

more proud,” Zelvin said.

In addition to the actors and actresses in the fall play, stage crew helped complete the production of the fall play, according to junior Fiona Hellerman. Despite working behind the scenes, their contributions to the play were vital, Hellerman said.

“Stage crew involves art and music and getting to work with the actors, which is really nice,” Hellerman said. “So the combination of all of that and still being able to say that [I was] involved in the show is really rewarding.”

Hel l er m a n explained that the set for Miracle on 34th Street is unlike anything she has worked on before, which posed some challenges for the crew.

“This year, part of the set flies in and is connected to the rails on top [..],” Hellerman said. “[This part of the set] is hiding above the stage for the most part. [It] was interesting to work with because you have to paint something that’s vertical, and you need to make sure that the paint doesn’t drip [...].”

For both Neptun and Madsen, the play was their first major production in front of a large audience. While Madsen explains that she has only worked in small skits, Neptun only had previous experience behind the stage.

“It’s been really difficult trying to learn what it’s like to be in a show like this,” Neptun said. “I’ve never been in a show (like I’ve mentioned), so it’s hard trying to transition from being a backstage helper to being on the stage.”

According to Taylor, the transition to being in the fall play was made easier by the friendly cast. Taylor adds that the cast members have added a light to his life.

“Basically, seeing these people every day has been a bright thing in my life,” Taylor said.

“Seeing everyone be so friendly and have big smiles on their faces, and everyone knowing the work and being friendly to each other is really something that’s made this group such a fun group.”

Zelvin concludes that although Miracle on 34th Street’s stage time has come to a close, the cast members will remain close.

“I’m definitely going to miss the community, but since we are all such close friends, I don’t think they will ever be that far away from me.”

“This play, yes, is about a man who thinks he’s Santa Claus but ultimately, what this show is about, is if we believe in the good in people. The outcome is really great,” - Director Beth Ann Barber

Around what age did you start writing? What got you into it?

“I started recreationally writing around second grade, because in school we used to have these mini-publication things like a short story, and they’d ‘publish’ it, and I really got into writing after that. I just liked working with words, and I found that it was something I was definitely good at. I had some sort of comfort with language.

That’s when I actually started writing in general.

Poetry for me started in seventh grade. It’s relatively recent.”

Is writing a hobby or is it more than that?

“It’s definitely more of a hobby. I do not want to have a career in language. [...] I think there’s a difference between an occupation and a recreational activity. This is definitely a recreational activity.”

What is your favorite writing style and why?

“As of now, I prefer creative nonfiction. [Creative nonfiction] is kind of like creative writing but less fantastical. There’s just a lot of liberty in that there’s no necessary form to that. It’s just writing a story, writing a plot or something, so there’s definitely a lot of freedom in that. I do find a little more comfort in poetry just because it’s brief.

You don’t have that intimidation of having a very long narrative to work with. You have a very brief language that you’re working with and because of that, there’s more to say with less words, and I’ve been working with that, a lot of free verse. I don’t do a lot of structured poems.”

Have you ever shared poetry at an open mic or something along those lines?

“I have not because I feel like the poetry I write is not spoken or slam poetry. It’s just something I write and it’s just meant to be read and taken in rather than spoken.”

Who are some influential people that you’ve encountered? How have they impacted you?

“I don’t really have a specific muse to pull from.

I’ll just say that every poem I’ve encountered since I’ve gotten into poetry writing has influenced me.

It’s not necessarily been incorporated into my style, but I’ve taken their different ideas and their different incorporation of those ideas into structure and language and kind of adapted them to my own and used them to see what I’m comfortable with and what I prefer.”

What advice would you give to poets and writers throughout the school?

“Don’t be afraid to mess around with your style.

There’s no set style that is correct because poetry is such an open medium. Get familiar with who you are as a writer and that will help you develop what kind of style you like. You don’t have to be restricted with one style, so just keep on writing.”

What’s your favorite piece that you’ve written?

“I wrote a free verse poem maybe a year or two ago. It was just an introspection into just who I was [and] where I thought I fit. A lot of my poems are like that; it’s very small subjects and introspective stuff. That was probably one of my favorites.”

How do you find inspiration for your pieces?

“I get a lot of inspiration from me, as a person, other people around me and just from reading. I read a lot of poetry, I read a lot of novels, then I get a lot of inspiration from those.”

16

a&e

Nov. 4, 2016

Marching band season ends with a first place win Cassidy Jackson co-a&e editor

Relief or panic. These contrasting emotions pass through seniors and juniors whenever the intercom blares “The senior parking lot has NOT been completely cleared for marching band practice,” followed by the list of straggler car owners.

According to JP Rodriguez, senior trumpet captain, students’ knowledge of band stops there, which leads to misconceptions and under appreciation.

“People think that band is a group of people that are ‘boring,’” Rodriguez said. “People think that band is a lame thing to do, [but] we set the mood with our music. One day we didn’t show up to a football game, and the people [said], ‘Where is the band?’ ” Some of South’s marching band’s annual community events include the rummage sale, mattress sale, car wash, and other parades. According to Band Director Greg Wojcik, the band’s identity comes from these community oriented events.

“The importance of marching band is more to the community and the school, than it is to the band itself,” Wojcik said. “The band is always out there supporting the community, that comes first.

Sometimes [students] ask ‘why do we have to go [to all these events]?’ The answer is because it’s the right thing to do.”

Erin in Action: Playing a solo on her clarinet, junior Erin Kirby performs at Band-o-rama. At this event, the marching band played in front of parents and honored seniors with According to Wojcik, marching band doesn’t awards and speeches. Photo by Yoon Kim only support the local community, the band also “You can have someone tell you, ‘you “The Prospect competition had a lot of hype “[The freshmen] were kind of recruited and strives to create their own community. did a great job,’ but it’s something differ“Our motto is ‘one band, one family,’” Wo- thrown onto the field and had no idea what they going into it, so both the Wojciks were nervous ent to see it for yourself,” Nevin said. “It’s jcik said. “If someone is hurt, we’re all hurt. If we were doing,” Kim said. “It’s their first time going and rehearsing the band extra hard [...],” Kirby nice to have that visual evidence that we win, we win as a group. If we lose, we lose [as] a on the field, but after people gain that experience said. “We even brought in our clinician from band improved.” camp, Mr. Dave Tippet, to capture and recreate [...] we do better afterwards.” group.”

Overall, the band’s main goal was to According to sophomore trombone Matthew the musical essence that this band needed in orAlong with providing inclusivity, Kayleigh close off Wojcik’s year with a bang, and Markulis, senior drum major, explains that the Risinger, the competition score was a disappoint- der to succeed at Prospect. Despite the competaccording to Keime, the band achieved positive atmosphere prevents outside factors from ment, but the band kept a positive attitude by fo- itiveness from each band, I was happy with the their aim. results because it showed improvement [....].” cusing on their future potential. affecting the band’s results.

“We always have this mentality [of] Finally, the band closed off the season “It was a pretty low score, so it surprised most “Being a teenager, there’s always a lot of things ‘Last time best time,’” Keime said. “Evof the band, but we knew with a win at The Sandwich Music Fest with going on in your life [...], but “We have this mentality [of] ‘Last since that was such a low 88.55 points. The competition was new to the erytime we have a show rap [...] we althat’s why we try to keep ways want it to be the best. [...] We band, and according to Rhea Shah, sophoscore that we really had band positive,” Markulis time best time.’ Everytime we have [tried] to make his last time [...] the opportunity to build more trumpet player, the band’s ability said. “We’re trying to make a show rep or anything we’re run- upon that,” Risinger said. to walk away with the win made the the best time, so that he can it great, and we’re not tryning for the last time, we always go home and say ‘I put in 38 The band’s potential competition a success. ing to let things affect us. years here and I’m satisfied “I think it was a great way to end When we do get in that want it to be the best. For [Wojcik] became a reality at the with what’s in that field.’” second competition of the off the season, because it was our zone, we do really well.” and for us, we [tried] to make his According to Keime, season, St. Rita Mustang first time going to Sandwich [...],” One obstacle that initiallast time [...] the best time.” while students’ knowlStampede Marching Band Shah said. “There were 21 other ly prevents the band from edge of marching band Competition, as the band bands there, so there were a lot of getting into that zone each - Drum captain Taylor Keime stops with announcewalked away with the bands to go against. I think it was reyear is underdeveloped ments telling them to freshmen talent, according to Taylor Keime, se- Grand Champion trophy, according to Risinger. ally great for Wojcik because he gets remove cars from the seleave nior drum captain. Getting freshmen up to speed This season marks the band’s fourth consecutive to nior lot, there is a lot more to St. Rita win. Risinger adds that although the win his legacy posed a challenge to the new section leaders. marching band than that. at Sand“I had a lot of young guys [whose] talent was to be expected, effort remained a key focus.

“With whatever you “It was kind of expected for us to win, but wich.” wasn’t where I wanted it to be,” Keime said. “The do in life, there’s alJack process of making sure they’re on the same page, [our directors] always say that nothing is guaranways going to be misand getting them engaged, teaching them disci- teed and make sure we always put out our best,” Kelly, seconceptions about it,” nior drum Risinger said. pline, [and] musicality was tough.”

Keime said. “I think According to Jon, the band put out their best major, adds that Noah Jon, sophomore alto saxophone and what people don’t unSouth transfer, joined marching band without pri- effort into the competition, and celebrated on the the Sandwich competition wasn’t derstand is how much only a special competition for the band or experience. He said getting used to marching ride home. time we put into band. Also, “Since it was our second competition and the but personally as well. band’s competitive nature was tough, but consiswe’re normal people. It’s just like “I was center drum major for this compefirst one we got fourth, we were surprised and tent practice helped the transition. when somebody goes to play foot“It was my first time ever doing marching band, also really happy,” Jon said. “We were like cheer- tition, and it was really amazing to contribute ball, we just play our instruments.” so it was kind of hard to like play my instrument ing on the bus. We sang the song ‘We Are The to getting Grand Champion for my band and Mr. Wojcik,” Kelly said. “What’s a better way to and march at the same time,” Jon said. “It’s kind Champions’.”

In the team’s third competition of the season, end all the seniors’ and Mr. Wojcik’s last year than of like music and a sport combined.”

Marching Marcus: Marching along to the beat, Marcus Bienko, a senior drum Yevin Kim, sophomore guard member, adds Prospect Knight of Champions, the band scored winning the whole competition?” captain, performs at Band-o-rama. This According to Miranda Nevin, sophomore tromthat the low scores at the Chicagoland Marching 67.05 points and placed second, after Lake Park. event occured on Tuesday, Oct. 18. Photo Band Festival proved that freshmen weren’t fully According to junior clarinet Erin Kirby, the band bone player, although winning isn’t everything,

by Yoon Kim prepared. The band took fourth place out of six walked in knowing it was a challenging competi- placing high against tough competition proves the band’s overall improvement. tion and put in extra work to prepare. bands and scored 68.05 of 100 possible points.

Sophomore David Kim plays the clarinet for marching band.

Junior Mira Joasiah plays clarinet for marching band and was in color guard this season.

Junior Ralph Cabaya plays the trumpet for marching band.

“It actually felt great [to win Sandwich and St. Rita]. We were [celebrating] on the bus and it was amazing. It makes me feel [grateful] for being at Glenbrook South.”

“[Sandwich was] really different because we have turf on our field, but they have grass, and it was really rainy that day, so we were marching in the rain and in mud, so that was fun.”

“It feels great to be first place champs twice in one year, because usually you place second or third at other competitions, so it’s a good feeling.”

Graphic by Rachel Nwia and Sophie Mason

17

a&e

Nov. 4, 2016

Zeitgeist captures childhood experiences

Gabby Zabat staff reporter

Remember the first day of kindergarten, grasping onto parents’ legs, begging not to enter the forbidden and scary classroom? How about getting lost between passing periods and being late to class during the first week of freshman year? This year’s Freshman Sophomore Play expressed both the fun and stressful stages of growing up from kindergarten to high school.

Every year the Freshman Sophomore Play is called Zeitgeist and the cast selects a theme that relates to the students’ interests and society.

According to Director Mark Maranto, many of the students wanted to express the life of a typical teenager and the conflicts they overcome along the way. To broaden their theme, the cast agreed on the stages of growing up. “[The play] is pretty much trying to answer the question, ‘What experiences are necessary for people to go through to grow up?’ [and] ‘What are the fun parts about growing up and what are the really painful, awkward, difficult parts of it?’” Maranto said.

Juniors Megan O’Loughlin and Zealous for zeitgeist: Acting out a scene in Zeitgeist, sophomores Sammi Boas and Sarah McNeela laugh as Gabriella Bellows photographs sophomore Annabelle Fogel. The theme of the Michael McNeela were the play’s assisplay, growing up, was chosen by the cast of freshman and sophomore students. In addition, the actors wrote the entire script of the play. Photo by Yoon Kim tant directors. According to O’Loughlin, they decided on the theme of growkids deal with. it themselves,” Maranto said. “I think felt a mixture of both excitement and relationship. O’Loughlin assembled a ing up because of its relatability.

“A lot of the scenes deal with the [the cast’s] investment in it is stronger fear for the play coming near. Howev- video of the cast’s favorite memories “[The cast] ended up picking grower, Glaser still believes that she pulled and bloopers to reminisce. ing up because that is constantly hap- tension between immature and mature because it’s their material.” “[O’Loughlin] would randomly film Before even deciding a theme and through in her performance. pening in our communities,” O’Lough- behavior and when are you expected to “I get stage fright before I go on [us] and sometimes you knew if she lin said. “We see each other growing cross over from immaturity to maturi- beginning the writing process, Maranto and O’Loughlin made sure the cast stage, but when I’m on there I’m was filming, sometimes you didn’t, so up and even when you graduate high ty,” Maranto said.

Although the majority of the plays was in a welcoming environment. As ready,” Glaser said. not all of us knew what was going to be school and college and you start to live showcased by the show week approached, the cast aimed According to freshman actress Clara in it besides her,” Glaser said. “It was in adulthood, Fine Arts Depart- to have well coordinated rehearsals and Blackwell, although the cast did forget still a pleasant and funny surprise for you are still con- “I think what made the play a ment are script- review lines and stage directions. many lines, they made sure to play it all of us.” stantly grow- success was the fact that we ed plays, Zeitgeist According to Blackwell, she felt the “When we start rehearsing the full off. ing.” were able to connect to both “We improvised a lot,” Blackwell performance overall was a huge sucMaranto ex- the teenagers and adults of the gives cast members show and have lines memorized, [rean opportunity to hearsal] does get a little chaotic be- said. “I don’t know if the audience cess as the themes of growing up preplains that the audience.” write their own lines cause it is a shorter amount of time could tell, but if we forgot a line, we sented in the play connected with audiplay consisted of ence members of all ages. a series of cast- -Freshman actress Clara Blackwell based on their liking. than people think, so it does get a little had to make it up on the spot.”

“Even though [the cast] did mess up Once the show came to an end, the written short skits that were all In return, students get to act as indi- hectic,” O’Loughlin said.

According to sophomore actress cast was very sad to say goodbye and a few lines here and there, I think what related to the theme. The play included viduals. Maranto believes that the freeskits about summer camp, test anxiety, dom sudents have in writing the script Hannah Glaser, throughout show week, no longer see each other at rehears- made the play a success was the fact some of the cast members and direc- als. According to Glaser, the cast had that we were able to connect to both dressing up for Halloween, and others. insentivizes them to work harder. “[The script] is the students taking tors were nervous about the outcome such a great time together that they still the teenagers and adults of the audiMaranto says that several of the scenes dealt with one common dilemma that on the ownership of actually writing of the play. Glaser explained that she keep in contact to maintain their close ence,” Blackwell said.

Dynamic duo covers songs, creates own band, Serendipity

KARINA BENSON staff reporter

Serendipity; the occurrence and development of events by chance in a happy or beneficial way.

For juniors Audrey Hwang and Zoë Gunderson, their meeting was unexpected, and in turn according to Haley Hwang, Audrey’s mother, led to a unique musical collaboration. According to Haley, the two formed a band entitled Serendipity after they were asked to perform at the Glenview Rock House’s one-year anniversary, and since then have performed at various community events.

“The [Rock House] had a one-year anniversary, so they had all their students play,” Audrey said.

“We did something together and ever since then, [The Rock House] has been telling us about any

time there was a new gig that they really wanted us to perform in.”

Audrey had been teaching herself until about six months ago when she found the Rock House.

According to Audrey, she had tried to play other instruments in the past, but so far the ukulele has been one of her favorites.

“I like how [the ukulele] is very simplistic,” Audrey said. “I tried playing the guitar and I couldn’t.

I just figured [the] ukulele has four strings and I have four fingers so how hard can it be. I really like how simple and light it is, and it sounds very relaxing to me.”

Serendipity performs at different locations across the North Shore area, according to Gunderson. The girls have performed at events such as St. Joseph’s Oktoberfest in Wilmette, as well as

Smiling through serendipity: Strumming and singing, juniors Audrey Hwang and Zoë Gunderson respectively rehearse for their upcoming shows. The two met in 2016 through the Glenview Rock House and soon established themselves as a band entitled Serendipity. Photo courtesy of Haley Hwang

“We feel that it is more monthly performances at the nursing home fun if we can introduce and rehabilitation center, Glenview Tersomething [new] then just race. have [the song] be really “[Glenview Terrace] is really fun; good,” Gunderson said. that one is probably our favorite,” Audrey says that SerGunderson said. “We [got] to play endipity tries to choose older songs and the people there songs they feel they really [enjoyed] hearing us play. We could properly repre[also] get to meet new people every sent despite their limmonth.” itations.

According to Gunderson, part of “For one of our gigs, Serendipity’s success is due to its we had the song ‘Daisy’ by strong dynamic. Gunderson exZedd which is electronic plained that she and Audrey share a dance music,” Gunderson similar taste in music, which is helpsaid. “We slowed it down ful when deciding which pieces to and added bass and ukuleperform. Similarly, Audrey says the le, which was a really cool ukulele and bass balance each othcombination. Not a lot of er out as well. bands do that with uku“I think that our instruments, lele and bass because just the sounds, balance each othHARMONIZING TO HEAL : Performing at they are polar oppoer because the ukulele is very light the Glenview Terrace nursing home, sites, [...] but the conand simple, and the bass is very juniors Zoë Gunderson and Audrey Hwang sing covers of songs to the patrast [sounded] really deep,” Audrey said. “[The bass] is tients. The two formed a band entitled cool.” supposed to be a backbone sound, Serendipity and perform at the home While both Audrey almost to keep the beat. In regards monthly, as well as various other comand Gunderson enjoy to [both] our personality and our inmunity events. Photo by Sophie Mason playing and performing struments, we balance each other music, neither one wishes out.”

Junior Daisy Taylor says she really enjoys lis- to pursue it as a career.

“Right now it’s been basically just for fun,” tening to Serendipity perform because of the relaxing atmosphere. Taylor says she usually attends Audrey said. “To share what we do with other Serendipity’s performances at the Rock House people, it’s been a lot of fun, but there’s not really a huge plan. It’s just a nice fun thing to do and enjoys being watch the performance.

“It’s really chill,” Taylor says. “I always get a together.”

In the future, Gunderson says while continusmoothie, and I just sit and listen to the music.

Some people will be on their phones reading and ing to perform around Glenview, Serendipity may just listening, but I always watch. It’s really inter- try out for South’s Variety Show. Gunderson also says that she and Audrey may begin writing their esting.”

According to Gunderson, Serendipity plays sev- own songs.

“We’ve talked about writing songs in the fueral types of music during their performances.

Gunderson says that they often play Indie music ture, and I’m pretty excited about that,” Gunderbecause of the combination of Hwang’s ukulele son said. “Then hopefully we’ll just start to incorand her bass. Gunderson also added that most of porate those into our sets so we get some original music in with some covers.” the songs they choose are not very popular.

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starting sophomore: Waving a flag, junior Daniel Cho supports his team while at the IHSA Regionals meet, which was held at Loyola Academy, where the Titans placed second out of ten teams (left). This was the last meet before Sectionals where they placed eighth to finish their season. Running for the finish line, sophomore Joey Pauletto passes through cheering fans while concentrating on ending the race (right). Pauletto is one of three sophomores who competed in Regionals. Photos by Sophie Mason

Men’s cross country ends season with eighth place finish at Sectionals Henry Schleizer staff reporter

The overall depth of this year’s men’s Cross Country team has made them competitive and dangerous, states senior Jack Whetstone. After a third place finish at the CSL Conference meet, the Titans aim to compete well at Regionals and hopefully make it to the Sectional meet, according to Whetstone.

Whetstone believes the Titans’ success can be credited to the stability and consistency that the boys have shown throughout the season.

“We have fared pretty well against our competition this year,” Whestsone said. “Like any team we’ve had some rough races, but everyone except maybe one or two have gone just as we’ve wanted them to [and] it’s been really great, we have ran well against teams in and out of our conference this year.”

In addition to consistentcy, the Titans display of range has given them a strength in numbers, according to Whetstone.

“We have seven varsity runners including myself,” Whetstone said. “It doesn’t stop there, the mark of any good team is depth and we’ve got a whole bunch of kids who are ready to take on any

of crushed them this year, so all the guys were reof the responsibilities that we ask them to.” ally excited about our win there.”

Strong leadership has helped propel the Titans The Titans’ success continued over to their first to success in meets, more motivated practices invitational meet of the season, according to Haand stronger team cohesion, according to Whetsenstein. stone.

“Our meet at Crystal Lake starts our truly Leadership is expressed throughout the procompetitive season,” Hasenstein said. “Both our gram, whether it is expressed by example or voVarsity and Frosh-Soph levels won trophies at that cally, according to head coach Kurt Hasenstein. meet.”

“We always look to the senior class for leaderThe Titans recently just competed at confership whether they’re captains or just upperclasswere junior Matthew Jortman on the team,” Hasenstein “One race could go our ence, berg and senior Alec Sanchez said. “The senior class has been great in terms of leading work- way, another could not. earned all conference honors. ran a season best time outs, [...]leading warm-ups before You have to be ready for Jortberg of 15 minutes and 37 seconds meets and mental preparation.

The seniors have been outstand- what is coming at you.” at the Conference race. Sanchez also received all conference honing.” ors while placing seventh with a Statistically, the Titans sport a - Senior Sam Cowhey time of 15:23.56 seconds, just below his season 5-2 overall record, a 3-2 Confer- ence record, best of 15:23.2 seconds. and have placed in the majority of their invitaThe Titans placed second out of ten teams in tional meets. the regional meet on Oct. 22. However, the Titans The Titans started the season off with a dual are approaching every meet as if it is the first one, meet against Glenbrook North, where they ran according to senior Sam Cowhey. with utter dominance and handed GBN a loss, ac“Every race is a new ballgame, every race is cording to Hasenstein. completely different,” Cowhey said. “One race “We always like to start the season off with a could go our way, another could not. You have to little district rivalry,” Hasenstein said.”We kind

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be ready for what is coming at you.”

The team raced in Sectionals this past Saturday, and recieved eighth place, missing state qualification. According to senior Brendan Fontillas, the top five teams qualify for state.

“It was pretty emotional after the race knowing the season was over and we couldn’t do anything about it,” Fontillas said. “Everyone thought they could have [ran] better, and we might have gone [to state].”

According to Fontillas, the team knew they were going to have to pull tricks out of their sleeves in order to qualify. Hasenstein was hopeful throughout the meet that the team could do it.

“He told us about the 1993 team who got eighth in sectional, and the 1994 [team] went to state,” Fontillas said. “He also touched on the fact that we have a young team, two of our runners are sophomores.”

Though Fontillas did not compete in sectionals, he was able to support the team as they raced.

“I was happy with the way I cheered the team,” Fontillas said. “I was able to tell them their places because time isn’t the main concern.”

Fontillas hopes the team can be like the 1993 and 1994 team and qualify for state. According to Fontillas, he thinks the team has a good chance.

Weinman commits to Denver, reflects on career Danny pauletto Simon Farber staff reporters

get [the job] done. She’s out there to guide the ship.”

Weinman expresses that selflessness is an important role for a leader, and that she would never want to be a bossy, arrogant captain. Although Weinman has earned many perShe’s scored almost 1,000 points in her basketball career. sonal awards, she credits most of it to her teammates and She led South’s women’s basketball team to the Sectionals coach. last season. She’s already committed to play Division I bas“Basketball is a really big team sport, so I can’t really take ketball at Denver University. She’s South’s basketball captain credit for everything for myself,” Weinman said. “I try to Carie Weinman. see what [Coach Weissenstein] pictures will happen on the Weinman began her high school basketball career by court, and I try to execute [his vision] to the best of my abilstarting in the point guard position on varsity as a freshman. ity.”

According to Weinman, with three full years of varsity expeWeissenstein can sense Weinman’s team-first drive on the rience under her belt, she believes she can set an example for court, but doesn’t discourage Weinman playing the game her underclassmen teammates. with an edge. He noted that Weinman’s hard work to im“Of course it’s scary to be an underclassman on varsiprove her overall game, especially in developing ty,” Weinman said. “But I think I can be a good her jump-shot, has not gone unnoticed. role model for [younger players], since “Weinman’s really [selfless] and isn’t I know how [challenging] it is to be a even close to being someone with a big younger player on the team.” ego, she just does what the team needs According to Weinman, she does to have done to make us successful,” not only see herself as a mentor for her Weissenstein said. “I told [Weinman] younger teammates, she has emerged at the beginning of the year that her as the leader for her entire team. goal should be to be ‘Ms. BasketWhen emotions are running espeball’, and she’s worked really hard cially high, Weinman says that her to make that happen.” “game-control” takes over.

With college approaching “There’s a lot of instancquickly, Weinman will have es where it’s easy to get overa brand new group of teamwhelmed or to start getting wormates to work with at Denver ried or ancy,” Weinman said. “I University, under women’s bastry to set the tone of calmness and ketball coach Kerry Cremeans. to make sure everyone’s supporting With her strong basketball skills, each other by giving high-fives to all Weinman believes she is up to the our teammates.” task of playing at Division I level.

According to junior Liz Lapierre, “The goal is always to be starting Weinman has been an important for the team, but I have to earn my player on the team since freshman spot,” Weinman said. “For my travel year. team, we like to play fast, but here “Now as a senior, everyone looks at Glenbrook South we don’t always up to [Weinman] because she is so complay fast; we like to run through a lot mitted,” Lapierre said. of plays. I have both sides of the playing Steve Weissenstein, the women’s varstyles, so I believe I’ll fit in with the playsity basketball head coach for all four ing style just fine.” years Weinman has played at GBS, acLapiere believes that with Weinman’s knowledged her ability to dictate the leadership on and off the court, the team’s in-game performance. team can go to state. According “It’s great to know that she’s to Weinman, with the help of her like another coach on the floor,” teammates and coach, she is ready Weissenstein said. to start this season “I can tell her what I and end her high want her to do, and I dunking in denver: Posing with new teammates, senior Carie Weinman (right) shows off school career with a her new uniform. She recently commited to play at University of Denver. Photo Courtesy of know she’s going to Carie Weinman State championship.

sports

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Nov 5, 2010

19

Sam Casey co-sports editor

The Oracle’s monthly Q & A with an athlete that was nominated by the Sports editors and voted on by South students.

Senior outside hitter Julia Rytel has been on varsity volleyball since her sophomore year, according to Rytel. She reflects on her time as a Glenbrook South athlete.

Fast freestyle: Taking a breath during the race, sophomore Nikki Dontcheva swims a freestyle stroke against Niles West on Oct. 21. The Titans defeated the Wolves by a score of 121-65. The next time the girls hit the pool will be Nov. 5. for their Conference meet. Photo by Rachel Nwia

Girl’s swim & dive prepares for Conference SOfia Snyder asst. sports editor

The GBS Girl’s swim and dive team ended their season strong with a win against Maine South on Oct. 28, and hope to continue to succeed in the conference season, according to head coach Keith MacDonald.

With the win against Maine South, the Titans are second in conference, as they head into the conference season next week. According to Co-Captain Samantha Casey, it was also their senior night.

“It was surreal to me being there, standing at my senior night,” Casey said. “I’ve always been the one watching senior nights, so it was weird hearing my name.”

According to Casey, Evanston and New Trier are usually first and second in conference, so it’s impressive that they are currently second in conference.

“I’m so proud that our team is currently second in conference because that’s never happened in my high school career,” Casey said. “Even when we had division one swimmers on our team, we were never second in conference.”

In regards to their season, MacDonald attributes the win against GBN to swimmers stepping up during their events and performing well. Similarly, Co-Captain Julia Rosenberg says it was their most crucial

to see [how] the final meets [go],” Rosenwin, ending with a final score of 104-82.

“Being a senior, [the meet] was like the berg said. “[I’d like] to have big time drops, last hurrah against GBN,” Rosenberg said. that’s always the end season goal [for ev“They have always been our biggest rival, eryone].”

On the diving side, the team is hoping to especially last year, how we only won by one point. I just wanted to go out winning have one state qualifier, sophomore Alex DiMarco, according to Laura Duffy, head all four years against them.”

According to MacDonald, having such a diving coach. DiMarco missed state last big team has helped them win meets. Mac- season by .25 points, and Duffy believes Donald added that even though swimming she can make it this year. “[DiMarco is} a good is an individual “I’m so proud that our competitor and keeps a sport, it can’t survive without the team is currently second in real cool head in tough team working toconference because that’s meets,” Duffy said. long as she congether and swimnever happened in my high “As tinues to do what she’s ming well. school career,”-co-captain been doing, she could “Everyone comSamantha Casey qualify to state, which petes together, would be really exciting but at the same time, it is an individual sport and you can’t because she’s only a sophomore.”

According to DiMarco, the team has been rely on the team when you’re up on the block or up on the diving board,” MacDon- doing very well this by getting first, secald said. “You have to perform by yourself, ond, third, and fourth places at almost evand there’s nobody from the other team ery meet and helping the swim team score points. They hope to continue to do well as getting in your way.”

According to Rosenberg, Conference has they begin the conference season. “[Diving captain] Bianca Crockett will be been on the Titans’ mind since the start of the season. With sophomores Kate Solem advancing with me to varsity conference, and Catherine Devine, Rosenberg hopes and we’ll compete together again at sectionals,” DiMarco said. “We are looking herself and teammates go far.

“I’ve been training a lot harder this year forward to tough competition and qualifythan I have in the past and I’m just ready ing for state.”

Trujillo looks to return to junior world championships Eliz Akgun Alex Thomas staff reporters

Five hours and fifteen minutes: nearly the length of a full school day, or perhaps the amount of sleep you get during a typical weeknight. However, for Melissa Trujillo, this signifies something different. This is how long she spends on the ice for a typical Saturday practice.

According to Trujillo, she first hit the ice at five-and-a-half years old, and upon turning 6, began synchronized skating. During the first couple years of the sport, she took lessons at the Glenview Ice Center. From there, Trujillo joined the Chicago Jazz, a team run through the Chicago Figure Skating organization. According to Trujillo, she has been skating with this team for the past six years.

Trujillo says, this past year, she and her teammates ended their six year drought by winning the gold medal at Junior Nationals, which was held in Kalamazoo, Michigan.

“We’ve always gotten fourth place, [but] I guess this year just proved that we worked really hard,” Trujillo said.

On top of her Chicago Jazz practice schedule, Trujillo skates every morning at the Glenview Ice Center with freestyle coach, Cindy Mikhail. Mikhail has been coaching Trujillo from the very start of her skating career, back when she competed

“Our coach always tells us to become the character [of our music] because that is what sets the mood for every program,” Trujillo said.

Last year, the team competed in Switzerland and Italy. The team also attended the Midwestern Sectionals where the top six teams advance to nationals.

“It’s going to be a very fun experience especially with all my teammates beside me, I just love traveling with them and competing with them,” Trujillo said.

Senior Amanda Angulo, Chicago Jazz teammate, who has known Melissa since first grade, says she has always looked up to Trujillo.

“Melissa has always been a really good skater, so the first year she joined Jazz, she made the Novice team, and at the time, I was cross skating between two teams,” Angulo said. “When you first join Jazz, no one makes the Novice team. Everyone is always put on the juvenile team, [...] so when I saw that she made the Novice team right away, it just kind of inspired me.”

According to Trujillo, she loves her teammates and doesn’t know what she would do without them.

“I’ve been with most of these girls since I was a little toddler, and so I love my teammates so much,” Trujillo said. “We are honestly like a huge family. We never argue with each other, which is great.”

According to Trujillo, it is this sense of deep support that fuels the team and energizes them on their quest for gold.

Besdies her practice schedule and Spin for the win: Smiling in front of hundreds of competitions, Trujillo says she admires people, senior Melissa Trujillo completes a 180 spin in a all aspects of skating and hopes to concompetition for Chicago Jazz. Courtesy of Melissa Trujillo tinue the sport for the rest of her life. individually.

“She skates every morning,” Mikhail said. “She’s on the ice at 6:30 a.m. every morning for an hour and a half. That’s five days a week.”

According to Mikhail, upon first watching Trujillo on the ice, she knew Trujillo was destined for success.

Mikhail recounts Trujillo passing all of the required skating levels very quickly.

“As an individual, Melissa has passed all of her skating tests,” Mikhail said. “We compare that to having a degree in skating.”

Each year, the Chicago Jazz team performs two programs: the Short program and the Free Skate program.

This year, the team is skating their Short Program to American music company album Two Steps from Hell, which Trujillo notes will be very dark. As for the Free Skate program, the team will be skating to the Godfather soundtrack, another mysterious ensemble, according to Trujillo.

What is your favorite part of Volleyball?

“My favorite part of volleyball is the way you win as a team. Every person on the court contributes to each play, and you know you can rely on each one of our teammates. Everyone’s got each other’s back.”

What was your favorite memory this season?

“This season, my favorite memory has been winning against Loyola on our home court for senior night.

Loyola has always been a rival, and it was nice to end with a win for my final year.”

What is one thing you can’t live without?

“I can’t live without hot tea. I drink it every day after school, and it’s almost become a routine for me.”

If you won the lottery, what would be your first purchase?

“A lake house in Michigan would probably be the first purchase because my family travels there all the time. It’s a perfect place to relax.”

What would you be doing today if you didn’t play volleyball?

“I would still be competing in rhythmic gymnastics.

I was a gymnst for about three years, and the sport was so graceful that I instantly fell in love.”

Do you have any pre-game rituals?

“I don’t really have any personal pregame rituals.

I just like to stay focused on what’s ahead and talk strategy with my teammates. As a team, we always do the “Juju on that beat” dance in the locker room.”

What advice would you give to GBS athletes?

“I would tell other athletes to really appreciate and take advantage of all the wonderful coaches and programs we have at Glenbrook South. High school athletics are so special and should be cherished while they last.”

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FOCKey fists: Lunging to avoid a defender, freshman midfielder MJ McNary (left) dribbles the ball down field during a game against F.W. Parker on Oct. 20. Turning away from the F.W Parker goal to face the rest of her team, junior attack Annie O’Rourke fist-pumps after a goal was scored; the Titans beat F.W. Parker by a score of 3-1. Photos by Yoon Kim

Field hockey ends year with 12-7 record Sophie Hensley co-sports editor

The varsity women’s field hockey team, coached

by Tom Rosenbaum, ended the season with a record of 12-7, according to Rosenbaum.

“It’s not just about the games we won [this season], it’s about how we won those games,” Rosenbaum said. “We’re a great team and they love being with each other and hanging with each other.

We’ve beat teams that we’ve never beat before, and [the team] is a mix of older and younger kids, so it’s just fun.”

With great team chemistry, senior captain Callie Pekosh believes the biggest difference in the team this year is the depth of the team and what they offer on the field.

“I think the difference between this year and last is that a lot of people who start on our team have had experience playing either on varsity or travel [teams],” Pekosh said. “Everyone knows what

they’re doing, and we move the ball really well.

We’ve been scoring a lot more, and we have a higher seed this year than last year because of it.”

According to Rosenbaum, the team’s toughest opponents isn’t any other team they play against; it’s themselves.

“I think our toughest game is when we play ourselves,” Rosenbaum said. “I know that sounds crazy, but [when] we go out and we play our field hockey, we’re fine. When we start to worry about the opponent, their record and how they play, then we get away from our game and who we are. When we play our game, we can play and stay with anybody.”

According to Pekosh, the Titans played the best they’ve ever played against Lake Forest Academy

when they won 3-2 on Sept. 16. “[The game] was exciting and made us feel stronger as a team because we worked together to tie it and then beat them in overtime,” Pekosh said.

“It was also a game that showed us how good we could be when we played our best. To come back, we moved the ball quickly on transitions and kept switching the field so we got past the defense for two open goals, and our goal in overtime was because of our communication and transitions.”

Besides the win against Lake Forest, the girls lost to Loyola on Sept. 12 by a goal in overtime, according to Pekosh. However, the Titans placed in the 6th seed, which was higher than Loyola this

“It was a tough loss, but at the same time we ended our season knowing that we played the best to our ability and that we gave [Glenbard West] a run for their money. -Senior Lindsey Karsh

year. “[Being a higher seed than Loyola] feels really nice because I don’t think we’ve ever beat them, at least since I’ve been [playing],” Pekosh said. “We could’ve beat them, this year, but even though we didn’t beat them we still got a higher seed.”

As far as playoffs went, the girls lost in the second round against Glenbard West. The Titans lost 4-1, but according to senior midfielder Lindsey Karsh, the Titans feel they ended the season on a good note.

“It was a tough loss, but at the same time, we ended our season knowing that we played the best to our ability and that we gave them a run for their money,” Karsh said.“We gave it our all in the real game, and we tied at 1-1. In overtime, I think we were all just pretty exhausted especially when [the game changes] to 6 vs. 6. When we go a man down it’s even harder, and I think they have better stick skills than we did and took advantage [of that on the field].”

Cubs Fans react to the World Series

“It’s surreal to see the World Series logo on the Cubs uniforms. This is something I’ve never seen in my life.”

-Senior Seejay Patel

“The Cubs’ success this year has connected my family in a way that nothing else has. For example, my grandpa who was the biggest Cubs fan, is no longer around to see the Cubs make it this far, and I’ve been wearing his old Cubs hat recently during the post season.” -Sophomore Eliza Schloss

“The Cubs are bringing a burst of energy to Chicago that we haven’t seen in a long time. Having everyone watch the games at night and then talk about them at school the next day is really something special.” -Senior Doug Wattley

“It’s incredible to see how far the Cubs have come. They continue to work hard and impress the fans. I’ll never stop flying the W.” -Senior Caroyln Berg

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-Freshman Maggie Snyder “We always knew the Cubs were gonna be good, but if you told me the Cubs would win 103 games and go to the World Series I’d say, ‘You’re crazy.’[...] No matter what, I’m still so proud of the team I love.”

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Men’s golf places third at IHSA State Meet Cassidy Jackson co-a&e editor

The men’s golf team walked into the 2016-17 season with two goals: to qualify for State and to capture the State title, according to senior co-captain Charlie Nikitas. The men achieved the first goal and sent six players (Nikitas, senior co-captain Kevin Paek, senior Robert Hopkins, junior Jarrett Prchal, junior Jack Grier, and sophomore Jack Upperman) to compete at the IHSA tournament.

In the end, the men fell short of the State title but tied with Barrington for third, surpassing the previous year’s fourth place Regional finish.

Collectively, the team made GBS history, achieving the second best postseason finish in the golf program’s history behind the State win in 1967, according to head coach Steve Gale. The boys also qualified for State as a team, which hasn’t been done in over a decade. Individually, top finishers included Prchal, who placed 11th with 151 strokes, one shot back from qualifying for All-State, and Nikitas and Paek who each placed 17th with 153 strokes.

“We [had] a lot of expectations going into this year, and [the school] expected a lot of us,” Nikitas said. “We did a good job handling [the pressure]. The past two years [...], we did not make it past Regionals, and we definitely had the talent to do it, [but] we didn’t know we were as good as we were. This year [...], we knew we had the talent.”

According to Nikitas, the team’s talent shone

through at Sectionals. The team tied with Loyola for first place and won the fifth score tiebreaker, taking home the plaque. According to Nikitas, the first place finish boosted the team’s spirit going into the State meet.

“If we just advanced and slid into third [at Sectionals,] we would [have] just felt grateful to be [at State],” Nikitas said. “Since we won, we felt like we really had a chance to [...] contend [at State].”

Sectionals didn’t only serve as a confidence booster; according to Prchal, tie breakers’ unpredictability and Sectionals’ intense final moments brought the team closer together.

“At Sectionals, we all stood together [...] and watched the final groups come in,” Prchal said. “It was really special to be together, [...] be supportive of one another and watch how things turned out. [Tie breakers are] always really tense [...] [because] if you don’t win it’s always demoralizing.”

The team experienced this demoralization at the end of the State meet,

as they lost the fifth score tiebreaker to Barrington, according to Nikitas. Not taking home the third place trophy was disheartening, but the team remained positive.

“We were definitely disappointed especially because the Barrington team was right next to us,” Nikitas said. “They kind of celebrated and didn’t realize we were right there. We did all we could. We were proud of our guys.”

Paek adds that losing the third place trophy to Barrington doesn’t take away from the team’s success.

“We played just as good as [Barrington],” Paek said. “We just didn’t get to bring home some hardware.”

According to Hopkins, the team focused on the comeback they achieved over the course of the two-day tournament rather than the trophy loss. At the end of day one, the men were sitting at eighth place. Over the course of day two, GBS jumped to third. According to Hopkins, making the comeback the team’s focal point allowed the men to walk out of state with a positive attitude. Hopkins credits this jump to the team’s

Flow on Fleek: Lining up his shot, Charlie Nikitas, senior co-captain, takes a practice swing before he puts in a match against New Trier. Nikitas and Kevin Paek, senior co-captains, both placed 17th in State with 153 strokes.

Photo by Rachel Nwia

perseverance in difficult weather conditions.

“The second day we came out gunning [...],” Hopkins said. “The conditions were worse [than the day before] [...] where other teams got dominated by the wind, we persevered. We passed up Loyola that day and tied with Barrington. We were only two back of New Trier, which after the first day we were 14 back of those teams [...]. That day we were the second best team at the tournament.”

After the first day of State, team captains Nikitas and Paek led a team meeting to reassure the rest of the team. According to Nikitas, this moment was crucial to the team’s comeback the next day as it allowed the team to walk in with a refreshed outlook. “[The] meeting [was] to reassure the guys that it’s not the end of the world,” Nikitas said. “The guys weren’t really used to losing and to put ourselves so far back after the first day was different for us. We had put ourselves in a bad spot, so we had to readjust our goal [to top three].”

The team’s overarching goal throughout the regular season and postseason was to contend, according to Gale. The team’s ability to come back from the first day’s setback proved the team’s ability to compete, according to Gale. He credits this year’s success to persistence.

“Hard work pays off,” Gale said. “This wasn’t given to us; the guys worked for it [...]. They know they had to perform each time they came out and hit the ball.”