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S P E C TAT O R
VOLUME 92 NUMBER 5
1500 WEST KENNEDY ROAD, LAKE FOREST, IL 60045
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MARCH 6, 2014
Fireside Chat with Dr. Strudwick
LFA parents warm to open discussion
By Michael Phillips News Editor
For more than 13 years, Lake Forest Academy has offered the community an opportuni-
ty to talk directly with the Head of School, and this year was no exception. On Tuesday, Feb. 11, Head of School Dr. John Strudwick hosted the annual Fireside Chat, where parents of students enjoyed dinner in Reid Hall, and then listened to Strudwick’s brief
“state of the school” presentation. Then parents were invited to ask questions. While former United States President Franklin D. Roosevelt was responsible for the origin of fireside chats on the radio back in 1933, it was Strudwick who brought
Photo courtesy of Grace Kim
Dr. Strudwick meets with parents annually for a fireside chat to answers questions that LFA parents may have.
This month... NEWS
Freshman class takes a field trip to mosque and Art Institute page 4
FEATURES
Winter Depression at LFA page 6
CENTERFOLD
Eating Disorder Awareness Month page 8-9
SPORTS
Making history at the 2014 Olympics page 16
that Lake Forest Academy is a good community that emphasizes and values good communication,” said Wolff. “Everyone has a voice and your opinion matters.” Other parents have been attending Strudwick’s fireside chats for years, including Ms. Amyanne Cope, mother of graduate Kemmer Cope, ‘13 and current junior Stanton Cope. “This year, we were included in reviewing the Vision Statement for the upcoming strategic plan,” said Cope. “It was an interesting exercise that allowed parents to be a part of the process. I appreciate the honest and unrehearsed interactions.” Strudwick also added that the idea of a Fireside Chat will likely be made available to more groups at Lake Forest Academy, including the possibility of a chat between Strudwick and the Student Council. “It is just a great way to have good, open communication between different constituencies at the school,” said Strudwick.
Rise in Eating Disorders across the United States By Emily Shanley-Roberts Managing Editor
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Dinner and a Movie: Disney’s Frozen page 12
these chats to LFA’s campus. “It is an opportunity for me, as the Head of School, to communicate with parents regarding what’s going on at LFA, and then wanting to get their input and feedback on these issues,” said Strudwick. While the idea of having a fireside chat is an annual standard, the topics of discussion and the themes change each year, depending on what is significant in the current LFA community. Every five years, a new strategic planning discussion occurs. 2014 happens to mark the most recent opportunity for such a discussion. Current strategic planning, according to Strudwick, might include new facilities, different programs and the size of school. For those new to the Fireside Chat experience, such as Ms. Karen Wolff, mother of two current LFA students, the chat reassured her belief that parents’ input at LFA is valued, appreciated and applied. “My experience [at Lake Forest Academy events] continues to be positive as I am reminded
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, hospitalization rates for eating disorders among teenagers rose by 18% and hospitalizations of kids younger than 12 rose by 119% between 1999 and 2006--a disturbing trend that continues to grow. February is National Eating Disorder Awareness Month, a time set aside for people to focus on such problems as anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge eating disorder, and EDNOS (eating
disorder not otherwise specified). Though they are most prevalent in young women, the sharpest increases in the recent trend have occurred in boys and minorities. Eating disorders often do not occur alone. They are usually accompanied by OCD, depression, anxiety or other mental illnesses. The causes are unknown, though many theories exist. Many studies say that people affected use disordered eating as a way to gain, or maintain, control in their lives. According to the National Eating Disorder Association (NEDA), gymnasts, runners, body builders, rowers, wrestlers, jockeys, dancers and swimmers
are particularly vulnerable to eating disorders because their sports necessitate weight restriction. However, it is important to note, according to LFA School Counselor Jennifer Madeley, that weight loss for athletics, healthy weight loss, and natural thinness are not the same as eating disorders. “It’s hard to tell if someone has an eating disorder, just by looking at them, for a couple reasons,” Madeley said. “You never know if something else is causing weight loss or if somebody’s just eating healthy and exercising.”
Jump to Centerfold.....
THE SPECTATOR
News
2
World News Roundup
Compiled by Romaer Chopra
Microsoft New CEO, Gates steps down as Chairman Technology is rapidly becoming a bigger part of the average person’s life, and the company that was once at the forefront of innovation has seen a dramatic change in its leadership. On Feb.4, Microsoft announced that its new CEO would be Satya Nadella and that co-founder of the company, Bill Gates, would be stepping down from the role of Chairman of the Board. Gates will act as more of an advisor to the company. Nadella will be replacing the outgoing Steve Ballmer as CEO. Nadella was born in Hyderabad, India and got his MBA at University of Chicago Booth School of Business. Nadella looks to revitalize a company that has recently slowed down with the rise of other technological companies around it.
Sophomore Service Projects By Kristen VanTine News Editor This year, the sophomore class has come up with a variety of unique service project ideas to work on for their Sophomore Seminar class. Some of the project ideas include selling sweatpants for PAWS, organizing a run with colored paints, and making sandwiches for homeless shelters. Each Sophomore Seminar class is required to find an outside organization or an on-campus department as a partner with which to do service. Every seminar class is doing an entire project as a group, or if the class size is particularly large, the class will split up into two separate groups to do service work.
Truce reached in the Ukraine: Violence persists With the world’s attention on Russia and its hosting the winter Olympics, the brutal situation in the Ukraine has been generally overlooked. Riots and protests have tattered Russia’s much smaller neighbor. The bloodshed-filled country has been divided over whether it should join the European Union. Since Nov. 21, protestors have lined the streets demanding that a deal be signed to bring the nation closer to joining the EU. On Feb. 19, the President announced that the government would begin working with the opposition to create a truce. Nearly 100 people were killed in clashes between the opposition and the government. Perhaps no part of the country has been hit harder than Kiev, Ukraine’s capital, and in particular, Independence Square at the heart of the city. The rollercoaster of events doesn’t end there. Days later Ukraine’s parliament voted to kick President Viktor Yanukovych out of office and to free opposition leader Yulia Tymoshenk from prison. With more still to happen in the torn country, it is possible to finally say steps are being made to resolving the internal issues that violently divided the Ukraine.
MARCH 6, 2014
The students do everything from first contacting the possible partner organization to planning the event, determining the logistics and finishing the action stage of the project. Afterwards, they will reflect on the success and the impact of the project. “They will learn what a great resource they are to the community,” said Director of Service Learning Sarah Collins. Ryan Williams’s Seminar class is doing a fundraiser for PAWS, an animal shelter. The class decided to sell sweatpants. Maria Pierre came up with the idea to label the pants “Sweats4Pets.” “We were inspired to raise money for this organization because Ryan Williams adopted her pet dog, Behr, from PAWS,” said Kendall Logan.
Photo by Miranda Dunne
Students unpack materials being used in their fundraising project for their Sophomore Seminar class. All Sophomore classes will perform various service projects.
Georgia Hale is leading her class to make lunches for PADS homeless shelters. Additionally, Jarrett Galigher’s class is volunteering at a PADS shelter. Samantha Longley is organizing her Seminar group to do a North Chicago Community Care Closet project in which they gather basic products for those in need throughout the North Chicago area. Another class plans to do a powder paint run for the Rehab Institute of Chicago. One class came up with a penny war to raise money for the Leukemia Lymphoma Society, LFA’s four houses were pitted against each other in competition. “We raised $264.90 total from the penny war,” said Marion Clare Wick. All Seminar classes came up with unique ideas to help the community. “Our class is focused on trying to end food deserts,” said Samantha Longley. Her class ran into some difficulties planning their project. The class originally wanted to take part in a food drive for AJK School families in North Chicago. However, the school was not hosting any food drives for their students in the time frame that the sophomores had to do their project. Instead, the group turned to North Chicago Community Care Closet to find volunteer opportunities. “Most of the sophomores don’t really know how to run a project like this before taking Sophomore Seminar. Oftentimes, as juniors and seniors, the students will found clubs or start their own service projects after having the experience in Sophomore Seminar,” Collins said.
GSA hosts employee vs. student basketball game By Romaer Chopra News Editor It is the ability of faculty and students to come together for a single cause that makes Lake Forest Academy such a unique community. On Feb. 28, Lake Forest Academy’s Gay Straight Alliance Club hosted an employees vs. students basketball game. All profits from the game went to a charity supporting homeless teens that were turned out of their homes after coming out. According to Mr. Nat Small, a faculty advisor for GSA, this terrible situation affects more teens than most will expect, especially in the Chicagoland area. The idea of the game was to gather all sorts of people, both good and bad players, get them involved in the cause and give everyone a chance to play. Part of the effort to create a fair game was the decision to use a men’s ball for one half and women’s
for another half. Additionally, both teams were made up of players with a varying skill level. According to Small, the game was about more than just pure competition. The main emphasis was to create a fun environment that raised awareness for a deserving cause. However, the game did have a competitive aspect to it, especially considering last time a game like this was hosted the faculty lost by two points at the buzzer. “The important part of the game was to balance competitiveness and fun. That being said, the faculty did want to win,” said Small. Senior Tommy Clarke was the captain and coach of the student team and he looked to create a team based more around potential rather than pure talent. “Of course we wanted to win, and we were not trying to limit ourselves to varsity players. We were looking for potential,”
said Clarke. While the game was meant to be a fun experience, designed to support a good cause, this doesn’t mean each team didn’t have pregame preparation. According to Clarke, student players like Margaux Boles, Mbasa Mayikana, and others, did their fair share of homework before the game. “The team got some practices in before the big night, and we did our homework by looking at the scouting report of the faculty team and some old film,” said Clarke. While All-School President Clarke is known for enthusiasm, other members of the team shared his confidence and excitement. “I was excited to play in the game even though I knew the seniors would dominate. I thought it was a great cause, and I was glad for everyone’s support,” said senior Margaux Boles.
THE SPECTATOR MARCH 6, 2014
News
3
No more G-Days!
LFA Community tests out a new schedule
By Amy Krivoshik and Mary Kate Patton Staff Writers
From Mar. 24 to Apr. 4., both faculty and students at Lake Forest Academy will be testing out a new schedule. According to LFA administrators, the idea for the new schedule was generated because of student and faculty comments looking for “more time” throughout the school day: more time for cycle meetings, science labs, instructional time and faculty meeting time, as well more time for club meetings. The trial schedule is comprised of a 10-day, two-week cycle. It no longer has a G or F day, but follows an A-E day schedule on the first week and an A2-E2 schedule on the second. “It’s something that has been talked about for a while,” said Ms. Kristine Von Ogden, Assistant Dean of Curriculum. “Our current schedule is great and there are a lot of wonderful things about it, but what we have to remember is that the current schedule was designed when we had less students, way fewer faculty, and most students were taking five classes, where as now most students are taking six. This new schedule was created to give ultimate flexibility.” Several meetings have occurred over the last year and a half, which included students, parents and faculty in order to shape and format a schedule that would fulfill a few of the recommendations that have been made regarding the current LFA schedule. Ms. Ardelle Hagar, Assistant Dean of Students, pointed out that the dominant issue that arose from meetings last year turned out to be students’ problems with fitting all the classes they sign up for into their schedules. “The schedule that we have now, because of the increase in number of students we
have, is really packed,” she said. “We have some conflicts right now that we can’t work around, and mainly that’s because the schedule is so tight. We just have so many students now trying to fit into specific bands of classes. By basically freeing up an additional eighth period every day, we alleviate some of that crowding.” This new schedule has not been set in stone for the next school year, but the response after the two-week trial period will help gauge where LFA will go next. “The general idea is that the first week you’ll have the classes that you have now, while the second week is the reciprocal of it, to use a math term, so just the other direction of it. A first period class on A day would be your eighth period class on A2,” Hagar said. She added that the new trial schedule ties much more to the days of the week than the current LFA schedule does. “Especially if you’re a part-time faculty member, or if your family has other
children who go to different schools, it would be easier for your parents in general to plan things that are tied to a Monday-through-Friday schedule,” she said. Science Teacher Dr. Kathleen Barton has concerns regarding the new schedule and how it will impact her lab times. Barton felt the school was moving away from a typical “college block schedule”, leaving her concerned that there are not enough double periods for her students to be in the lab. Barton also noted that after planning her classes for this two-week trial period that it was difficult to create a cycle sheet. It is unknown whether or not LFA will adopt this particular new schedule, but members of the LFA community can anticipate that changes will be made to the current schedule. “It’s great to try something new,” said Hagar. “We will learn a lot from just having the trail period and going through this process.”
Campus News In this space, The Spectator provides further details on ongoing and upcoming events at Lake Forest Academy Compiled by Romaer Chopra
Admissions Update Every LFA student shares in common the fact that they went through the admissions process to join the LFA community. Right now is a pivotal time for the Admissions Department as they scrutinize many applications and decide who will have the opportunity to come to LFA next year. The Admissions Department is currently looking through 464 applications, roughly the same as last year. According to Mrs. Carolyn Gorowski, a member of College Counseling and the Admissions Department, the overall number of applications is roughly the same as last year. However, there has been an increase in the number of girl boarder applicants. Admissions decisions were released on Mar. 3.
Multicultural Day
Photo by Miranda Dunne
Above, LFA student Cindy Wang observes her planner schedule. Below is a sample of the new trial schedule that will be implemented.
Lake Forest Academy is a school that is proud of and is built around its diversity, and as a community, LFA does its best to consistently reinforce an understanding and acceptance for all sorts of culture backgrounds. One of the key parts of this effort is LFA’s Multicultural Day. This year, LFA hosted its day of cultural dialogue and activity on Mar. 5. As LFA continues to increase the input from members of the student body through events like student-led community dialogues, the hope is that the level of student participation and enthusiasm continued to rise at this year’s Multicultural Day.
Weather delays sports
Photo courtesy of lfanet.org
Anyone who has struggled through this winter’s harsh circumstances would willingly say that this has been a weird season. From polar vortexes, to snow storms, Lake Forest Academy has seen its fair share of extreme weather these past few months. It is unknown at this time what impact the weather, and remaining snow and ice, will have on upcoming spring sports. According to Athletic Director Mr. Darrin Madeley, it all depends on what the weather is like in the near future.
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News
MARCH 6, 2014
Freshman Class Trip Students indulge in new cultures at mosque and Art Institute By Yousuf Kadir Features Editor
A new stop was added to this year’s annual History Department field trip for the Freshman Class. Besides going to the Art Institute of Chicago for a cultural scavenger hunt, the freshmen also visited the Muslim Education Center (MEC) in Morton Grove, which proved to be an eye-opening experience for many students. MEC is not only an Islamic school, but it is also a mosque. “I have never been to a mosque before,” said freshman Darius Mienville. “I didn’t know what to expect.” Stopping at the mosque, during a snow storm, on the way to the Art Institute, the freshmen listened to MEC Principal, Mr. Habeeb Quadri, speak about American-Muslims and basic Islamic beliefs. Several students and teachers were intrigued to learn about Islam from a Muslim teacher, rather than a textbook. “Mr. Quadri presented Islamic beliefs in a very personal manner. It is one thing to read about the five pillars of Islam in a book and another to have a believer explain what those fundamental beliefs mean to him,” said Mr. Bill Dolbee, one of the history teachers who chaperoned the trip. Later, Mr. Rizwan Kadir, the former Chairman of the MEC school, spoke to the LFA freshmen about the hardships Muslims in America have faced since 9/11, including recent examples of hate crimes done to the MEC building. Kadir mentioned the time when a man shot rubber pellets at the mosque during a prayer in the Holy month of Ramadan. Kadir and Quadri went on to talk about the positive aspects of Islam in America as practicing Muslims try to emulate the character of the Prophet Mohammad and the peaceful essence of Islam. “Mr. Quadri and Mr. Kadir spoke about the tenets of Islam—especially trying to explain what Islam really is, as opposed to what people think it is, or assume it is, based on racist and xenophobic stereotypes. I thought that Mr. Quadri’s explanation of why Muslims wear beards, to emulate the prophet Muhammad and be closer to God was very interesting,” said Dr. Stefanie Bator, another chaperone on the trip. Students and teachers found the trip to the mosque to be an important part to their understanding of American-Muslims and their part in American society. “I think it was especially important that students saw that this was a fully functioning, average school. So often, Muslims are vilified in the press and made to look
non-human. Going to a school that looked just like any other school was a great experience for our students. Hopefully it showed that that Muslims are people, and Americans, just like everyone else,” said Bator. After the students were given a tour of the mosque, the students went on to visit the Art Institute, one of the premier museums in the world. The freshmen were divided
into different regions and were asked to explore different kinds of cultural arts from that region. This “scavenger hunt” was used to help students learn about history in a new unique way. “The goal of the scavenger hunt is to encourage students to look at a number of pieces of ancient art from such places as Greece, Rome, Egypt, India, China, Africa and the Americas. We continue to think
about how best to help students to fully connect the art with the history that they have learned” said Dolbee. After concluding the scavenger hunt, each region used the information gathered for a later presentation to the rest of the class. The students then explored the Art Institute on their own, until it was time to return to LFA. “We hope to make this visit a yearly event for World History I students,” said Dolbee.
Photos by William Murphy
The top photo shows two LFA freshmen observing writing regarding the artwork. The students visited the Art Institute during their field trip this month. The bottom photo is a photo of LFA parent, Rizwan Kadir, explaining some aspects of Islam to a few freshmen.
THE SPECTATOR
Features
MARCH 6, 2014
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Music Spotlight: Remix Artist Collective By Madison Olivieri A&E Editor
them,” according to Spotify’s short biography of RAC.
Remixing iconic alternative artists such as Lana Del Rey, Phoenix, Imagine Dragons and Two Door Cinema Club, RAC (Remix Artist Collective) stands out as more than just your average DJ. Hailing from Oregon, founder André Allen Anjos makes up the majority of the tracks with his sometimes relaxing, sometimes upbeat, but always reliable mixes. The terms “dance remix” and “club mix” have almost become interchangeable due to the number of artists that have integrated stereotypical club music into their remixes. Many popular remixes seem to be layered with EDM (Electronic Dance Music) stylings in order to appeal to an energetic, youthful audience. Yet, RAC redefines dance remixes by distilling these sometimes repetitive beats and amping up what’s underneath. “RAC cultivated a distinctive approach to remixing, opting for re-inventing artists’ songs instead of grafting dance beats on
A variety of music is presented in RAC’s albums, stretching from mixes of Claude Debussy to U2 to the Pokemon Theme Song. RAC’s 2012 album, Chapter One, poses as a unique recreation of some popular alternative songs. Although many of the covered bands are successful, there are some hidden treasures as well. A perfect example of stripping a song down and expanding on its undertones is RAC’s remix of Bastille’s “Laura Palmer.” The original song is fast-paced and almost ominous, while the remix slows down the lyrical progression and surrounds it with poppy beats, filling it with positive energy. The re-mix of Bob Marley’s “Could You Be Loved” rings with nostalgia by adapting the legend’s music to something demonstrating more modern stylings; it stands as the perfect summer anthem. RAC’s adaptation of a cover of Alicia Keys’ “If I Ain’t Got You” struck me as a subtle but breathtaking remix of an already soulful song. The new beats exhibit a control similar
Photo courtesy of slapthebass.com
RAC, a new remix band, is gaining popularity among young fans.
to that of the vocal control, wrapping the melodic lyrics up in a teasing, playful harmony. What stands out the most, though, is RAC’s mix of “New Theory” by underground artist Washed Out. It’s what got me hooked on the band in the first place, and
I strongly recommended it to anyone looking for something abstract and fluid. While their Mar. 31 Chicago live set at Lincoln Hall is sold out, I doubt that this is the last of RAC that Chicago will see.
Senior Maame Addae expresses her proud Ghanaian heritage through designing clothes By Aban Yaqub Features Editor Living in the enmeshment of global cultures that is America, identifying with one’s individual culture can be a challenge. While here at LFA many students reflect their ethnic traditions through starting clubs and hosting events, senior Maame Addae manifests her Ghanaian heritage
through designing clothes. The daughter of a Ghanaian designer, Addae was influenced by her mother’s work when she tried her own hand at designing at age 14. “One time, I was going to a party, and of course I had nothing to wear. You’d think that being a designer, my mom would make it for me, but she didn’t have time, so I decided to make it myself. That was
Senior Maame Addae poses in her African-centric bespoke sweater.
the first time I wore one of my pieces out, and a lot of people believed that I’d had it made. I get the least attention from my mom as a customer; if I want to learn from her, I have to watch,” she said. Her designs run specifically to Ankara, a style named after the Ghanaian capitol that accentuates bright colors and unconventional patterns. According to Addae, the
Photo courtesy of Maame Addae
cuts in her pieces are of an African-American fusion, but the patterns she embellishes them with are Afro-centric. “Sometimes I’ll dream a style and wake up in the middle of the night, and I can’t go back to sleep unless I draw it out,” she confessed. Addae started out gifting her pieces to friends and family, until her work was recognized by Ghana Fest-goers, who were willing to compensate her for her designs. Ghana Fest is an annual culture festival where one can “be Ghanaian”, as she described it. People can visit vendors selling authentic Ghanaian food, garments, and tokens and watch traditional dance performances. Ghanaian royalty and celebrities have attended the festival, as well as the Ghanaian president. Addae found a way to reach more customers as she expanded her line on social media, via Instagram, where she posts photos of her pieces, ranging from sweaters to dresses. Her account name, @moreofmaame, was inspired by the fact that these materials and designs come from an extension of herself, primarily her original stylistic spin on her African-American identity. “I appreciate how experimenting with Ankara connects me to my Ghanaian culture and I like sharing that in forms of making pieces for my friends,” Addae said.
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MARCH 6, 2014
Abnormal winter weather powerful enough to impact emotional state of community By Ayorinde Ifatunji Features Editor The polar vortex has taken the entire United States by storm, both literally and figuratively. With temperatures below zero, people only go outside when it is absolutely necessary. Many now prefer to stay cooped inside watching Netflix rather than risking frostbite trying to go to the gym or go out to visit friends. This may be the sensible alternative given the weather conditions, but there are many people who have felt a drop in their positive moods because of the continuously dismal weather. The question is: do you have the simple winter blues or the more serious Seasonal Affective Disorder? Seasonal Affective Disorder (S.A.D.) and the winter blues have most of the same outer symptoms, but the causes are different. One might have the winter blues because they can’t do all of their normal activities, or at least they aren’t as enjoyable. They begin to feel sluggish, get tired easily, and lack motivation to do anything. There is also cabin fever, where one can feel easily irritated because they have been confined to limited space with the same people for a
long amount of time. This restlessness that one might feel can cause them to lose happiness during the winter season. Seasonal Affective Disorder is a much more serious condition, akin to regular depression. Counselor Jennifer Madeley isn’t sure that LFA students can recognize the difference or realize the severity of S.A.D.. “In order for a diagnosis for Seasonal Affective Disorder you can’t just say one winter you’re feeling blue,” she began. “If someone is diagnosed with it they have to have symptoms seasonally.” Seasonal Affective Disorder has the same symptoms as regular depression, except that it depends on what season it is. About 6% of the population is affected by this disorder. According to TeensHealth. org, symptoms include: changes in mood, lack of enjoyment, low energy, changes in sleep, changes in eating, difficulty concentrating and less time spent socializing. During the winter the days are shorter, which also means more darkness. This is where depressed feelings start to take their toll. The body produces two important chemicals that can affect one’s mood, serotonin and melatonin. Serotonin is released when a person is exposed to sunlight while
Senior Matti Franks relaxes by the fireplace.
melatonin is released when it gets dark outside. If one has too much melatonin in their body, it can easily bring their mood down. Seasonal Affective Disorder needs to be treated with therapy and even medication. As for the winter blues, Madeley suggests to simply go outside. “You put on coats and hats and you take your hot chocolate outside,” she said. She also recommends doing outdoor
Photo by Miranda Dunne
activities such as cross-country skiing or snowshoeing, if people are interested in that. However, in general, eating healthy, getting outside and enjoying time with friends will be a sure way to cure your winter blues.
LFA student takes great strides to improve lymphedema treatment By Amanda Bozorgi Photo Editor After being diagnosed with lymphedema during her sophomore year of high school, Lake Forest Academy junior Sophie Hanson wasn’t going to let anything slow her down. After being initially told that she could never run seriously again and had to give up cross-country, Hanson and her mother are now running 120 miles in 30 days to benefit the National Lymphedema Network as well as the Lymphedema Treatment Act. The mother-daughter pair plans to raise $3,000 during their run, $2,000 for the NLN and $1,000 towards the Lymphedema Treatment Act. The NLN works to further the education of lymphedema patients as well as physicians, while the Lymphedema Treatment Act, if passed, will increase the amount of insurance that lymphedema patients can receive for their treatment. Currently, lymphedema is mostly uninsured, despite the hefty expense of treatment. Although the disease is a large issue in the medical world, it often does not receive the attention and care that it deserves, as Hanson explained.
Lymphedema affects the lymph system in the body, causing an abnormal swelling, also known as edema, mostly in the limbs. Lymphedema can either be a hereditary condition, known as primary lymphedema, or can be caused later in life due to damage to the lymph vessels. Many breast cancer survivors face lymphedema as a consequence of the injury caused to their lymph systems through cancer treatment. Hanson said that the disease can become “crippling,” in some cases, and Hanson and her mother are working hard to improve lymphedema treatment and knowledge. “The problem with lymphedema is that it is extremely common but not much is known about it. It’s not discussed very much. Millions of people around the world have it, but doctors don’t know quite as much as they should for how common it is,” said Hanson. Demonstrating the mystery surrounding this disease, Hanson went through six months, four doctors and numerous tests before a partner at her mother’s practice finally reached the conclusion that Hanson had primary lymphedema. Hanson even recalls one doctor testing her for Lyme’s
Disease because medical personnel did not recognize lymphedema. After diagnosis, she traveled to a clinic in Germany to receive the treatment that got her to the point where she is today. Because of her amazing progress, the doctors at the clinic gave her their approval to start running. Hanson met this news with joy, especially after the
disappointment that she experienced when she first had to give up running. “I loved cross country so much, and I was just absolutely devastated,” said Hanson, Hanson rejoined the cross-country team this year and ran in several varsity races, demonstrating inspiring drive.
Photo courtesy of Sophie Hanson
Sophie Hanson and her mother pose before beginning their run supporting lymphedema.
THE SPECTATOR MARCH 6, 2014
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Off the Cuff What can we deduce about Sherlock? By Sophie Hanson Features Editor Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s classic novels about the unsociable, but brilliant, consulting detective Sherlock Holmes and his partner Dr. John Watson have been resurrected in the form of a sharp, British television drama that has taken the world, and LFA, by storm. “The show is very different than the books, but very good,” said sophomore
Maria Eduarda Pereira. The BBC1 series, fittingly entitled “Sherlock,” has aired 9 episodes evenly divided into 3 seasons since its debut in 2010. The plots are loosely based on the Victorian adventures of Sherlock (Benedict Cumberbatch) and Watson (Martin Freeman), as they would be in modern times. Sherlock carries a Smartphone rather than a pipe, and Watson is a veteran of the Afghan War rather than the 1878 Afro-Afghan War.
Caxy Match Photo courtesy of Tumblr.com
Sherlock Holmes (left) and John Watson (right) are England’s ultimate crime-fighting duo.
Photo by Miranda Dunne
Photo courtesy of Google Images
The Spectator staff agreed that junior Josh Postadan bears a remarkable resemblance to actor Jaden Smith, son of actor Will Smith.
Each episode is an hour and a half long, the length of the average film, and sparks with wit, danger and razor-sharp intellect. Faithful viewers concur that nine episodes is not nearly enough to stretch across a period of four years. A ‘Sherlockian’ myself, I wholeheartedly agree. Series 2 left Sherlock’s massive audience with jaws hanging open as the beloved anti-hero leapt off the roof of St. Bart’s Hospital, smashing into the concrete below in an attempt to save his friends from death at the hands of the manic villain Moriarty. The final clip showed Sherlock to be miraculously alive. These shocking events were followed by a two-year hiatus before Season 3 in which Sherlock fans viewed the finale again and again, searching for some hint as to how he survived the fall. Wild speculations flowed from fans onto social media sites, but it was unclear if any of these theories held truth. The 10 million-plus viewers who tuned
in for Series 3’s first episode were met not with answers, but with a plethora of theories and an altered dynamic between Sherlock and Watson. While Series 3 was a divergence from the original plot, “Sherlock” maintains its devoted audience and draws in new viewers constantly. “My parents and friends both suggested it to me,” said sophomore Arthur He. “I’d also seen a lot about it on Tumblr.” Indeed, many fans show an impressive amount of devotion to the series in the art and stories they create and post to social media sites like Tumblr. and Deviantart. Hopefully, these creations will help to staunch the pain of this new hiatus between seasons 3 and 4. Series 3 ended on a note that was as (if not more) shocking than its predecessor. Two final, whispered words, “Miss me?”, will have to be enough to satisfy the Sherlockians for now.
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MARCH 6, 2014
The Spectator acknowledges The information on this page was compiled by Editor-in-Chief Michelle Whitehead. She gathered information about these diseases from the National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders website (anad.org) and the National Eating Disorders Association website (nationaleatingdisorders.org). More information about eating disorders can be found at the aforementioned addresses. The ‘Things Not to Say to Someone with an Eating Disorder’ section was compiled from various counseling websites. Anorexia nervosa
Bulimia nervosa
People with this disease are unwilling to maintain a healthy weight. They often see themselves as heavier than they are and the disease is often characterized by a fear of gaining weight. People with anorexia nervosa lose weight a variety of ways, including excessive diet and exercise, vomiting or misusing laxatives and diuretics.
People with this disease have frequent episodes of over-eating (or bingeing) accompanied by a loss of control over their eating habits. They will then purge the bingeing episodes in a variety of ways, including vomiting, overuse of laxatives and diuretics, fasting or excessive exercise. People with this disorder can be a normal weight and their behavior tends to be secretive, making the disease harder to detect in people than anorexia.
Some Warning Signs: Refusal to eat or having an obsessive amount of self-inflicted dietary restrictions, an abnormal amount of body or facial hair stemming from a lack of protein, sensitivity to cold temperatures, hair loss.
Some Symptoms: Denying hunger, compulsive exercise, swollen salivary glands, broken blood vessels in eyes
Binge-eating disorder
Unspecified feeding or eating disorder
This disorder involves extreme cravings that cannot be satisfied, often brought on by poor body image, stress and low self-esteem. Since there is no purging involved in this disorder, people who have it tend to be overweight. Feelings of disgust and loss of control are often associated with this disease, causing severe emotional and physical distress.
This is when a person’s behavior doesn’t fall entirely into one category but clinically significant problems are still caused. This diagnosis is also sometimes given in emergency situations when a doctor is unable to assess an individual on the spot. People who have this often cross over between disorders over a period of time and some studies say that this disease has the highest death rate of any category of eating disorder.
Ways to Detect: Not being able to stop once you start eating, lying about how much food you have eaten, eating alone, stashing food, zoning out during episodes of overeating.
Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder Not eating an adequate amount of food and dealing with nutritional consequences because of it. There are not psychological features of anorexia nervosa involved. People often avoid food in this case because they are afraid of vomiting or they dislike the texture of the food.
Things not to say to someone with an Eating Disorder Are you sure you have an eating disorder? You look the same. Oh, I have this great diet for you.
But I see you eat all the time.
Everyone hates their body at some point.
Just eat; you’ll feel better.
Don’t worry, I won’t tell anyone about your eating disorder. Why do you have an eating disorder? Aren’t people with eating disorders supposed to be skinny? Why don’t you just diet and exercise? It’s much healthier. It’s what’s on the inside that counts. You look great to me! But you don’t need to lose weight.
Just stop eating; you’ll feel better.
When was the last time you ate?
Oh, I knew someone with an eating disorder once and… But you can eat whatever you want and not gain weight.
THE SPECTATOR
Centerfold
MARCH 6, 2014
Eating Disorder Awareness Month Rise in eating disorders across America continued from front page There are a few theories behind what causes eating disorders. For anorexia, one possible cause is the changing body during puberty. Though it can develop later in life, it often develops in girls ages 13-18. The mixture of physical, emotional and hormonal changes can lead to discomfort with one’s body and a feeling of losing control. The increases in academic pressure, peer pressure, and societal pressures at this time also contribute to the onset of eating disorders, according to Madeley. A popular theory is that disordered eating is a way to gain and maintain control. According to Dr. Stefanie Bator, history instructor and teacher of Gender Studies, the people at the highest risk for developing eating disorders are highlydriven, highly-successful women - often with overbearing parents. “When people are highly successful and they are in a system with a lot of control placed on them, they will try to find ways to seek out control. One of the places they can find control - this is especially true for
younger girls - is over their own bodies,” Bator said. “They can refuse to eat as a way to exert control.” Madeley agreed, saying, “When you’re an adolescent, you’re trying to become independent. If somebody doesn’t feel control over their personal freedom, this is a thing that they can control.” One reason for the recent rise in eating disorders is the current societal expectations for women and men. The ideal female body image for the past couple of decades has been that of a very thin, boyish build, whereas in the past it has fluctuated between a bigger, curvy frame and an athletic build. According to Bator, “You find that historically the ideal female body type has changed dramatically over time, and a lot of this has to do with the gender politics of the time.” Eating disorders in boys often have the same causes - feelings of loss of control, depression and dislike of one’s appearance. Studies say that 10% of people reported as
having eating disorders are male, yet recent surveys by the NEDA showed that 41% of men are dissatisfied with their weight. Most experts agree that the actual number of men with eating disorders is much higher. According to the NEDA, cultural pressures to have a certain body type affect both men and women, though the culturally ideal woman is much thinner than the culturally ideal man. Both Bator and the NEDA mentioned that homosexual men are at a higher risk for developing eating disorders due to the cultural pressures within that community, and that confusion over gender identity and sexual orientation can lead to disordered eating as well. LFA students can reach out to any member of the school counseling staff, according to Madeley. “Absolutely somebody could talk to me or Mrs. Collins, but we would probably refer out. We would work as a team with other people. It needs to be a team effort.”
Wellness Survey Results The Spectator was given access to select results from last year’s Lake Forest Academy Wellness Survey, which is conducted every year. This survey is strictly anonymous and conducted by a third party service.
9
Hotlines and School Resources In the United States: • Mrs. Madeley: jemadeley@lfanet.org or (847) 615-4787 • Ms. Collins: scollins@ lfanet.org or (847) 6154809 • National Eating Disorder Association Helpline: 1-800-931-2237 Monday-Thursday from 8:00 am - 8:00 pm and Friday from 8:00 am - 4:00 pm (CST) • National Eating Disorder Referral and Information Center: edreferral@edreferral.com or 858-4811515 • Anorexia Nervosa and Associate Disorders (ANAD): 847-831-3438 • Bulimia and Self-Help Hotline (24 hours crisis line): 314-588-1683 • Overeater’s Anonymous: (505) 891-4320
International: • The International Eating Disorders Centre: 01296 330557 Lifeline International: • Ghana: 223 244 846 701 • South Africa: 0861 322 322 China: • Helpline 1: Free: 0800810-1117 • Helpline 2: Mobile/IP/extension users: 010-82951332 Austria: • Helpline 1: 142 • Website: WWW.TELE-
THE SPECTATOR 10
Opinion and Editorial
MARCH 6, 2014
Inquiring Photographer
What class would you like to see added to the curriculum? The Spectator went out to hear what the LFA community had to say about their academic interests and dream classes.
“I would choose a class on the history of fashion and how it has evolved.” -Becca Rhee
“An Architecure class where I could learn about the history of architecture and then modern design where I would also have the chance to design my own house.” -Alec Doyal
“An auto and transportation class working with cars and learning how they work and how to fix them.” -Cody Van Lierop
“A Sports management class. I would want a class that teaches how the sports world works and how to buy and sell players.” -Joey Visconti
“I would want a mapping elective which would teach how to read a map, and draw a map using contour lines.” -Melissa Merritt
“Since a lot of classes in school aren’t related to when you get a job, I would invent a class where you learn how to interview and apply for a job. I think it would be useful to learn how to conduct yourself in a job environment.” -Natalie Warnes
“I’ve always wanted to take a class on jewelry making.” -Sophie Shoemaker
“I always thought Greek mythology was interesting so I would want a class that focuses on Greek Mythology.” -Daily Twine
“I would create a class on anthropology and study evolution from a social perspective.” -Tommy Chandler All photos by Miranda Dunne
THE SPECTATOR
Opinion and Editorial
MARCH 6, 2014
Editorial
T h e L a k e A c a d e m y
Introducing the new schedule The new cycle schedule that LFA will experiment with when we return from Spring Break is… well, it’s the new schedule. It’s going to be rolled out and tested from Mar. 24 to Apr. 4, whether you like it or not. Depending on reactions to the schedule, theoretically from the entire LFA community, it could be rolled out next year as the new way things are. Because of that, The Spectator staff suggests that everyone give feedback on the experiment at every opportunity. It’s really the only way you have of influencing the decision. The new cycle system has two five-day weeks, A-E, with weeks demarcated by A and A2. Eliminated in the new schedule are six of the 30-minute afternoon breaks in the current schedule, with two breaks given in week A and two given in week A2. Club time is being given major priority with a 65-minute block being devoted to it every C day.
Gone is the 2:30 release on Tuesdays. Gone also are any G and F days, snipped off the end of the cycle like so much dead weight. Indeed, two times a week school would actually last longer into the afternoon than it currently does (3:15 p.m. versus 3 p.m., a small but noticeable difference). Despite some rumors, there still have been no passing periods built into the schedule, and we here at The Spectator would like to wish anyone going from the Science Center to Korhumel good luck. Late starts have become an every 10-day occurrence. Every A2 week A day will begin at 8:40 a.m., meaning that the built-in late starts and early exits of the current schedule have been heavily reduced. Other tinkerings with the schedule include: Monday/A day is advisory, Tuesday/B day is a morning meeting, Thursday/D day is advisory, and Friday/E day is an-
other morning meeting. It’s similar to the old system, except that days of the week have a devoted day in the schedule now. One interesting tidbit is the addition of a 45-minute All School Meeting during A2 week Fridays (E days). The end result is a major increase in club time, class time, and meeting time (All School and otherwise). If you are a student who feels that breaks, late starts, and early dismissals are part of what makes the LFA educational experience enjoyable, give the administration feedback on the schedule experiment, as they all have been heavily reduced. If you are a teacher who feels that the new schedule does not help you fulfill all teaching requirements, speak up. Otherwise, expect to spend slightly more time at school during the weeks that this system is tested, and, over the long run, a lot more time at school if implemented full term.
Personal Opinion Progress reports start off on shaky ground By Jenna Selati Editor-in-chief
Coming back to school after the long winter break is a tough transition for even the most diligent students. It takes substantial amounts of energy, time and focus to get back into the routine of homework, studying and testtaking. As hard as we may try to readjust our brains and cope with the responsibility of school after a refreshing break, it is frighteningly easy to perform poorly on the first few assessments. Perhaps even more frightening, however, are the grades seen on the progress reports that come out a mere four weeks into the second semester, giving us no time to make up for what would usually be minor mistakes in the grand scheme of things. The reason for releasing progress reports so early is understandable. Students should be made aware of their grades early on so that they can work towards any necessary improvements.
Though the students sometimes understand this logic, the parents oftentimes do not, seeing progress report grades as predictions instead of status updates. I find it tremendously stressful to report to advisory barely a month into the second semester and see less than satisfactory grades. I find it even more tremendously stressful to report home to angry parents who have seen my less than satisfactory grades and have spent the day dreaming up absurd possibilities as to why their supposedly diligent child had received such marks. As I try my best to explain to my parents that, no, I have not stopped doing my homework, nor have I been ditching school, and no, I honestly have neither the willingness nor opportunity to join a gang, I begin to curse LFA for releasing my progress report. I love LFA, but four weeks into the second semester, I have likely taken one test in each class along with a smattering of worksheets. As if learning isn’t hard enough already, learning
after winter break is next to impossible (I tend to exaggerate). Therefore, successfully taking a test after winter break simply cannot be done well every time. That one test is likely to be the only significant thing in the grade book at the time progress reports are submitted. After four years of this nonsense, including the one when my advisor jokingly emailed my progress report to my parents with the suggestion that I had been ‘slacking’ (my parents missed the humor), I feel that it is time to take a stand. Releasing progress reports four weeks into the second semester causes stress for both students and parents and is a misleading measurement of progress. I understand that students need to know where they stand, but maybe we should wait a few more weeks. In addition, kids should be given updates in class to spare them unnecessary panic, as well as allowing them the chance to immediately figure out with the teacher how to raise their grades.
11 F o r e s t
S P E C TAT O R
STAFF LIST Editors-in-Chief
Managing Editor Senior News Editor News Editors Senior Features Editors Features Editors
Sports Editors Arts & Entertainment Editor Op-Ed Editors Photo Editors Faculty Adviser
Margaux Boles Mary Kate Patton Jenna Selati Michelle Whitehead Emily Shanley-Roberts Amy Krivoshik Romaer Chopra Michael Phillips Kristen Van Tine Justin Nakasu James Paige Sophie Hanson Ayorinde Ifatunji Yousuf Kadir Aban Yaqub Brandon Amoroso Ned Kennedy Jordan Wolff Madison Olivieri Matt Filip Allison Hechtman Amanda Bozorgi Miranda Dunne William Murphy
PUBLICATION
The Spectator is published eight times per year by the students of Lake Forest Academy and is a forum for student expression. The views and reporting herein are the sole product of The Spectator’s student reporters and in no way reflect the official views of Lake Forest Academy faculty, staff, administration or Board of Trustees.
EDITORIALS Opinions of the staff are presented in the form of unsigned editorials. Personal views are bylined or presented as formal dissents.
LETTERS TO THE EDITORS The Spectator welcomes responses to its articles in the form of Letters to the Editors in addition to letters on subjects of the author’s choosing. Please e-mail Letters to the Editors to Mr. Murphy at wmurphy@lfanet.org.
AWARDS The Spectator has been awarded several prestigious journalism awards in recent years. It has consistently taken first place in competitions against schools of similar size held by the American Scholastic Press Association and the Kempler Moraine Press Association.
QUOTE OF THE MONTH
“By giving us the opinion of the uneducated, journalism keeps us in touch with the ignorance of the community.” -Oscar Wilde
THE SPECTATOR 12
Arts and Entertainment
MARCH 6, 2014
Dinner and a Movie
We ordered towers of food at Ttowa
By Justin Nakasu and Michelle Whitehead Staff Writers Ttowa is a Korean bistro in Arlington Heights that masterfully blends traditional Korean dishes with contemporary cooking.
It is definitely one of our favorite restaurants thus far. As we stepped into the little bistro, the first thing we noticed was the atmosphere. The candlelit tables were overseen by a bar at the back wall just like in a Western restaurant, but elements of Korean style were scattered around the room. The specials were written in Korean on a blackboard and there were posters of soju advertisements behind the bar. We were seated at a half-booth, half-table with cushions on the booth side. The coolest part about the service was that the owner of Ttowa was the one who was taking most of our orders. He walked around, keeping conversations with all the surrounding tables and even
teased us a bit about the comically large amount of food we ordered. First, we were served hot corn tea, a popular Korean beverage. It was enjoyable and a nice complement to the rest of the dinner. For our meal, we started with Dak Tigim with Gochujang (Korean chicken wings). They were a nice combination of crunchy breading and juicy chicken. The sauce was sweet with a slight kick and overall very flavorful. The next thing we had was traditional mandoo (dumplings). Michelle thought they were flavorful with light, nicely boiled skin. Justin thought that they were over-steamed and could’ve been presented better. For the main dishes, we had dak kalbi (spicy grilled chicken), bulgogi (marinated beef) and kimchi jjigae (fermented red-pepper cabbage stew). We thought the bulgogi was sweet and tender and the dish was presented in a way that was both appealing and simple. The dak kalbi
consisted of Korean spices and seasoning on grilled chicken so the meat was both hearty and flavorful. Justin noticed that the kimchi soup broth was made with tomato juice instead of kimchi juice, which provided an umami flavor in addition to the sour and spicy flavor of the kimchi. Michelle thought it was overwhelmingly spicy at first but, upon cooling, the broth’s delicious, lemony flavor was revealed. The owner walked by and noticed that Justin was having a bit of trouble with all the spicy food so he brought us Yakult, which are fermented yogurt drinks, to cool Justin’s palate. Just as we were scolding ourselves for consuming so much food, the owner came by and gave us a complimentary dessert of warm chocolate cream-filled cinnamon bites with one scoop each of red bean and green tea ice cream. We almost exploded from the amount of food but that was okay because all of it was so good.
VERDICT: Ttowa is an all-around amazing place and you will definitely enjoy yourself.
Frozen restores Disney’s wondrous legacy
By Amanda Bozorgi Photo Editor
I have been far from impressed with Disney’s latest attempts to maintain its status as the premier maker of lasting children’s movies that touch the hearts of all generations. I have found myself wondering: Where are the stories of decades past which children played over and over again, on every family road trip, clutching the stuffed version of the adorable protagonist? Where were the Lion Kings and Bambis, which children and adults alike memorized and recited from opening to the closing cred-
its? I missed those classic tales. With low expectations, I walked into Frozen, hoping to have my faith in Disney restored. And restored it was. Every moment of Frozen filled me with emotion, as I found myself, the only teenager, blinking back tears in a theater full of children. Other scenes had me doubling over with laughter at the lovable snowman, Olaf, as he approached every character in the movie with brilliant humor and positivity. Olaf wasn’t the only Disney creation that kept me engaged in Frozen, however. Each character was expertly crafted with genius purpose. The villains were almost too much fun to hate, and the heroes were irre-
sistibly flawed. I found myself living each moment along with the characters, sucking my breath in with suspense or breaking into a wide grin at their successes. I have no doubt that these characters will live in the memory of every child that sees this brilliant film. In fact, I have already seen their smiling faces plastered on the backpacks of elementary school children as their parents tug them along. These characters are role models that those parents can approve of, and maybe even look up to themselves a little bit. The musical aspect of Frozen was surprisingly well-integrated into the story. I often find myself cringing as characters suddenly burst into barely related songs, sometimes in the middle of basketball games or high school classrooms. I was never the child that faithfully recited every lyric from High School Musical, but the Frozen songs make me want to buy the soundtrack to the film. The use of the Broadway queen, Idina Menzel, as the icy Elsa ensured the quality of the soundtrack and Kristen Bell as Anna had a surprisingly pleasant voice.
VERDICT: I recommend this movie for every kid and every adult; this will become a Disney classic.
Theater Review
Evanston
- Large selection of movies - Courteous staff - Comfortably cool temperature
- Convenient access to parking garage
- Easy access from train - Close to restaurants and shops
THE SPECTATOR MARCH 6, 2014
Arts and Entertainment
13
Documentary makes a splash in LFA AP English class curriculum By Madison Olivieri A&E Editor
With the tagline, “Never capture what you can’t control,” the documentary Blackfish has recently made quite the impact in today’s media. While the documentary racked up a solid $2.1 million at the box office and has made headlines throughout America, it also seems to resonate well with the curriculum of LFA classes. To kick off the semester, AP Language and Composition classes have been viewing Blackfish, which discusses the controversy behind animal captivity. Blackfish specifically offers an opinion on the captivity of killer whales at Sea World, a famous oceanarium. The documentary delves into the ethical standards of animal captivity, and closely follows the life of one whale with an infamous attack history. One may ask how this fits into an English class’s curriculum;
however, it is extremely relevant to what English teachers strive for students to accomplish. AP Language teacher Ms. Amanda Pentler stressed the importance of viewing everything as a piece of argumentation. “My goal isn’t for you to feel differently about animal captivity,” said Pentler. “My goal is that when you are watching something that is meant to stir your senses and be entertaining, you are able to come to it with a very analytical perspective. My goal is to give you the ability to approach it as you would a text, and apply your depth of analysis and criticism to it.” After having viewed and possibly being persuaded by the argument that director Gabriela Cowperthwaite presents, the students took a step back and viewed Sea World’s rebuttal. Students were able to examine the way in which they had been persuaded, and were able to determine the ef-
Photo courtesy of CNN.com
A scene from one of Sea World’s killer whale shows portrayed in “Blackfish.”
fectivity of the argument that was made. AP Language teacher Ms. Emily Asher also shared what the viewing was like in her classes, “As with any issue, I think that students become very invested and passionate about it,” stated Asher. “Yet, I think it’s always good to inspire a healthy debate, and hopefully
the AP Language course has given students the tools to do so.” Students throughout the LFA community have reportedly asked to view Blackfish in their English classes, to which Pentler explained that the relevance of the documentary’s argument is not limited to just AP Language courses. Students are encouraged
to view the documentary in order to understand and view arguments through different lenses, and then apply that knowledge to everyday experiences. With this year’s change in curriculum comes the promise of new pieces of visual argumentation each year in AP Language classes, and possibly other English classes as well.
Laptop Orchestra faces transition:
Former instructor steps down mid-year By Justin Nakasu Senior Features Editor LFA’s technology guru Grier Carson created the Laptop Orchestra and served as its instructor before leaving Lake Forest
Academy last semester. Since that time, the Laptop Orchestra has been in a transitional phase. The Laptop Orchestra still plans to perform despite the change in instructors. They were scheduled to perform individual pieces and
possibly a group piece on Feb. 28 and are in talks for a concert in late April. Carson founded the Laptop Orchestra in 2012 and strived to create a group that not only used melodic sounds but also every-
Photo courtesy of Cathy Morrison
Sophomore Milo Green focuses on a piece during an All-School Meeting presentation of Laptop Orchestra.
day sounds to create music. Since then, the Laptop Orchestra has performed every year and has fostered a first semester arts class, Electronic Music 1, where students learned the basics of synths, digital instruments and electronic sampling. “Music is all around us,” Carson said during last year’s Laptop Orchestra performance. Before Carson left, he made plans for LFA Music Instructor Adam Schlipmann to take up the mantle of directing the Laptop Orchestra. Schlipmann is the conductor for the LFA symphony orchestra, the faculty advisor for the LFA Jazz bands and instructor of many music courses. “When Mr. Carson left, he talked to me about taking over Laptop Orchestra,” Schlipmann said. “He and I understand how a class like that works.” In previous years, the Laptop Orchestra has collaborated with the Symphony Orchestra on musical pieces, so Schlipmann al-
ready had some experience with the Laptop Orchestra. “It’s part orchestra and part jazz,” Schlipmann said. “The students have to learn how to improvise and what they need to prepare beforehand.” This year, the Laptop Orchestra played a concert in the winter that showcased their more melodic side instead of their previously highly experimental music style. They played electronic pieces by artists like Aphex Twin, who is well known in the Electronic Music genre. “It’s part orchestra and part jazz,” Schlipmann said. “The students have to learn how to improvise and which samples that would be better off prepared beforehand.” “I think that most of these [Laptop Orchestra] students closely related to Mr. Carson. Adjusting to me is going to be a change for them, but the way I deal with students is similar to Mr. Carson,” Schlipmann said.
THE SPECTATOR 14
Sports
MARCH 6, 2014
Experiencing the challenge of playing goalie By Margaux Boles Editor-in-Chief Internationally known sports journalist George Plimpton made his reputation by writing books about being an amateur athlete and trying to play football for the Detroit Lions, hockey for the Boston Bruins and pitching in a Major League Baseball exhibition game. Plimpton lived the sports fantasies of many Americans and then captured the events in words. On Feb. 21, 2014, I played goalie for the Lake Forest Academy Girls’ Varsity Hockey Team, which was unlike anything I had ever tried before. I had never worn hockey skates in my whole life and I had grown up always using figure skates. Interestingly enough, my uncle and my four cousins have grown up playing hockey goalie their whole lives. I was hoping that I would be able to pick up the skills quickly and maybe playing goalie ran in my family! However, I quickly learned from the outset that this was going to be a very interesting experience. I got to the locker room at about 3:10pm and it took the rest of the 20 minutes until practice started for me to get dressed, which was quite the process. I had to borrow gear from the team and I started by putting on pants and then my skates. After this I had to put the goalie pads on, which was impossible! I have no idea how goalies put on all their gear by themselves. A few members of the team were nice enough to help me, including the current goalie, junior Natalie Warnes. However, my pads were broken in some places so they used tape to secure them on me. After this I was told to put on my upper pads. The other goalie, senior Kami Weiner, helped me fix my pads because once I put them on I could not move my arms at all. In fact, senior Miranda Dunne had to help me tie my hair back. After I was completely dressed I was ready to head out onto the ice. However, before I could step out on the
Senior Margaux Boles tries to play goalie for the Girls’ Varsity Hockey Team.
Photo by Amanda Bozorgi
ice I had to trek all the way from the locker room to the rink. I felt like a penguin waddling with all those pads on. Once I got to the rink taking the first step on the ice was actually pretty scary. I got a hold of my footing and started to do a little shuffle around the ice. I have always enjoyed skating, however I felt three feet wider on each side and 30 pounds heavier, which was difficult to get used to at first.
Practice got started and the first drill we did was a skating drill. Surprisingly after a few minutes of this I felt much more comfortable out on the ice. After this, Warnes tried to teach me some goalie moves, however I could not do any of them. I was baffled by the fact that goalies basically have to sit in squat the whole time they are playing. I have gained so much respect for goalies after trying to do even the simplest
of moves. Eventually I was put in goal and the team did a shooting drill. Even though I know most of them were going easy on me I still got scared every time someone shot a puck at me. However, I did manage to save some of them, probably because their shots were aimed right at me! Playing goalie was much harder than I anticipated, but definitely an experience I am glad I tried.
as has been on the hockey team for three years now. Thomas said that because the team is having success this year, everyone is having more fun than in previous years. Thomas has been playing hockey since she was three. As well as playing for LFA, she is also on an outside travel team where she practices twice a week and has games on the weekend. When asked what the team’s greatest accomplishment this season had been, sophomore Michaela Crowley said it was beating Lake Forest High School in their first game. “When we started practice I did not think we could win, but the fact that we beat
Lake Forest High School who won the whole division last year was awesome,” said Crowley. Crowley has been on the hockey team for two years. Like Thomas, she is also on a travel team outside of LFA that practices twice a week and competes in games on the weekend. The varsity head coach for the hockey team, Gia Puch, has been coaching ice hockey for three years and is currently in her second season of coaching at LFA. “What I was looking forward to most was watching everyone improve from last year and having a fun season,” said Puch. “I am looking forward to all of our hard
work paying off in playoffs.” Her favorite part about coaching is seeing the players succeed after working so hard on their personal goals and team goals. “The team members have done an amazing job of supporting each other and giving hockey all they have,” said Puch. When asked who the standout players on the team were this year she stated that she did not want to answer the question because she thinks of them as a team and not just 16 girls. Each girl brings a particular set of skills to the team that is truly a significant factor. Junior Kristen Chivers leads the team in goals this season. Crowley currently leads the team in assists.
Girls’ Hockey finishes a strong season
Margaux Boles Editor-in-Chief
This year the Lake Forest Academy Girls’ Varsity Hockey Team has been playing considerably better than in recent years. As a result, the Caxys are currently in first place in the Founders Cup standings, which is a great improvement from last year. The league the girls play in is split into two divisions halfway through the season: the top half and the bottom half. In the second half of the season the top half plays each other for the State Cup and the bottom half plays each other for the Founders Cup. Junior Assistant Captain Carly Thom-
THE SPECTATOR
Sports
MARCH 6, 2014
15
Girls’ Basketball Surprises By Brandon Amoroso Sports Editor Lake Forest Academy’s Girls’ Varsity Basketball team faced off against the Christian Liberty Academy Chargers in February, winning by a final score of 51-22. Margaux Boles, senior forward, and Liza Tarr, junior point guard, led scoring with 12 points each. The Caxys came into the game looking to jump out to a big lead on the lesser-talented Chargers, and were able to grab a 14-2 lead by the end of the first quarter. The Caxys’ defensive pressure was overwhelming for the Chargers, forcing them to take low-percentage shots and taking them out of their game offensively. The Chargers were never able to get into a rhythm offensively. The Chargers got a break in the first quarter as what seemed like a hail-mary shot from the corner
went in to give them one made field goal for the entire quarter. The Caxys’ defense suffocated
the opposing offensive effort. In the second quarter, the Chargers ramped up their offensive
intensity, managing to score seven points early in the quarter. The Caxys rebounded by holding them scoreless the remainder of the quarter and netting 17 points of their own to go up 31-9 at half time. The remainder of the game was smooth sailing for the Caxys, who coasted to the final score of 51-22. This game was a breeze for the Caxys, but not all of their games have been this easy this year. The most memorable game for Tarr isn’t even a win. “We played Vernon Hills and our girls just showed up. Everyone did their job and stepped up when they needed to. We were up by two points at the half! Just being able to hang with a huge public school like Vernon Hills is such an accomplishment for us. I know every girl is proud of that game,” said Tarr. The Caxys have enjoyed great-
tures affected both teams, but we just didn’t come hard enough to get the win.” With 13 games played so far, the team has been getting better acclimated to playing with each other this season, according to Hanebrink. “The team has definitely improved. There is a wide range of talent on the team this year and many new players, so it took some time to get everybody on the same page,” said Hanebrink. “Lately, everybody has been coming together and we’re playing well as a unit.” “Against LFHS the cold wasn’t really too big of a factor since we were moving around a lot,” said Hanebrink. “Although I did have cold toes by intermission.” Hanebrink was also asked what went wrong during the game and what they could have done differently. “We didn’t put it to them early. We didn’t play physical enough,” said Hanebrink. “If we played the first period with grit and muck we
could have set a tone for a strong offensive game.” After the game coach Tom Seputis was interviewed to see what happened in the game. “LFHS happened to get a few
very weak and lucky goals that kind of deflated our team after we came out to what I thought was a fairly good start,” said coach Sepurtis. Hopefully the game will turn
Photo by Ned Kennedy
Junior Jasmine Sawyer is one of the leaders of the team.
er success than anyone expected for this year. The Caxys lost their leading scorer in Lauren Clamage who graduated and now plays at Macalester College. With a less experienced lineup, the girls set their goal to make it to .500 on the season. The Caxys surpassed this pre-season misconception with a record of 14-7 so far against stellar opposition against big public school teams from the area. Head Coach Chris Tennyson believes this success is derived from deep-seeded team chemistry. “I think the girls played exceptionally well all season, but most importantly, they were a team in every sense of the word,” said Tennyson. “They really bonded and had a lot of fun and this carried itself onto the court. From a straight stats perspective, Dija Diouf averaged close to 20 a game so that always helps, too!”
out differently next year if they can get physical and into their heads early. The Caxys eagerly await their rematch next year and plan on being able to grow and bulid off of this sub-par season.
Lake Forest Scouts LFA Varsity Hockey loses annual game By Ned Kennedy Sports Editor
The LFA Boys’ Varsity Hockey team has struggled with a schedule of difficult opponents this season, posting a 4-7-1 record so far. However, the team had hopes it could turn around its season if the Caxys could defeat the Lake Forest High School Scouts recently at an outdoor game at The Winter Club. LFA was forced to watch that chance at redemption slip away as the Scouts won 4-1. The frigid temperatures did not stop the LFA fans from getting into the game, many with paint on their faces. The LFA crowd was fired up on a cold night. Although the team may not have won the game, they still fought hard. Team member Brett Hanebrink was interviewed recently about the tough loss to LFHS. “We needed to go out and play a real physical, grinder type game. It’s always fun getting to play against the high school,” said Hanebrink. “The cold tempera-
Sophomore defenseman Aidan Doyal talks to coaches during practice.
Photo by Miranda Dunn e
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Sports
MARCH 6, 2014
Sochi 2014: a comprehensive recap
History is made at Sochi 2014 By Jordan Wolff Sports Editor In light of the brutally cold months that have plagued 2014, Americans and Olympic enthusiasts have many reasons to be happy this February. Sochi 2014 will go down as one of the most memorable Olympics in history, as records have been broken and impressive victories have occurred. Possibly the biggest story to come out of this year’s Olympics is the awarding of two gold medals in the same event. Dominique Gisin of Switzerland and Tina Maze of Slovenia, were both awarded with a gold medal in the women’s downhill skiing. Both competitors posted the impressive time of 1:41.57. While two gold medals is a first, multiple medals have been given out for silver in 1964, 1992 and 1998. However, this year’s double gold medal will be remembered forever. Another large event in this year’s Olympics was the highly anticipated USA vs. Russia men’s ice hockey game. After a long game, the US was able to defeat the Russians in a shootout. The US had the lead going into the final minutes of the third period, but Russia tied it up when Pavel Datsyuk scored his second goal of
the game. The Americans went on to win in a shootout with the winning goal being scored by T.J. Oshie. However, the US win came with a significant amount of controversy. Just before the end of the third period, Fyodor Tyutin scored a goal that was reversed. According to the referees, the US goal was knocked slightly off its moorings, and thus the goal was not legitimate. The controversy was that American goalie, Jonathan Quick, had knocked the goal himself, which should have made the ruling insignificant. Slava Voynov, former teammate of Quick, believed the move was intentional. “I play with him,” Voynov said. “I know that’s his style.” Whether intentional or not, the game will be remembered in the same way that all controversial games are. Despite all this history being made, USA fans will not forget the triumph of the twoman bobsled team that claimed its first medal in the event in over 60 years. Driver Steven Holcomb and brakeman Steven Langton started the final two runs third in the standings, and were able to hold on to capture the first US medal since 1952. For Holcomb the accomplishment is even more rewarding because he won with a strained
left calf muscle. “I let my horse here take over,” Holcomb said in a team release in reference to Langton. “We pushed harder than I expected, and going into that last heat, we knew we had to bring everything we had if we wanted to bring home a medal. There was a lot of pressure going into this.”
Sochi 2014 will definitely be remembered throughout history as a ground-breaking Olympics. Team USA finished in second in the total medal count, finishing with 28 medals, including eight gold. Russia took the top spot with 32, including 13 gold.
Photo courtesy of Associated Press
Americans Steven Holcomb and Steven Langton win the bronze medal in two man bobsled. This was the first medal the the US won since 1952.
Sochi Security Problems By James Paige Features Editor The most anticipated event of 2014, the XXII Olympic Winter Games in Sochi, began on Feb. 7, with spectacular opening ceremonies rife with bright lights, cultural celebrations, and artistic tributes to Russian history, as well as the competing athletes. From a security standpoint, the games have been a great success as of Feb. 19. In the days leading up to the opening ceremonies, President Vladimir Putin launched an aggressive security offensive against extremists across Russia. The unconfirmed death of Chechen extremist leader Doku Umarov stands as the ultimate culmination of Putin’s efforts. Umarov, the leader of Islamist Caucasus Emirate Movement, has been referred to as the ‘Russian Bin Laden’. He has been involved in numerous bombings in Russia, specifically the 2010 Moscow Metro Bombings and the 2011 Domodedovo Airport Bombings. Additionally, Umarov had called on local extremist groups to disrupt the Sochi Olympics. Chechen President Ramzan
Photo courtesy of The New York Times
Doku Umarov, a Chechen extremist leader, as seen on a recorded video.
Kadyrov and numerous Chechen jihadist web forums reported that Umarov was allegedly killed in a Russian Special Forces operation earlier this month. “Umarov is dead and we are looking for his body. We are 99.9 percent sure,” said Kadyrov in an interview with the NTV television channel as reported by the International Business Times. While there have been no bombings or deaths in Sochi yet, a forty-five year old Ukrainian man named Artem Hozlov hijacked a flight in Kharkiv, Ukraine. Hozlov attempted to divert the plane to Sochi, but was tricked by the crew to land in Istanbul, Turkey. Hozlov claimed to have a bomb and demanded the release of imprisoned anti-government protestors in Ukraine. Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovych is in attendance at the Sochi Games. “The passenger put forth the demand to free the ‘hostages’ in Ukraine. Otherwise, he threatened to blow up the plane,” said Maxim Lenko, the head of the Ukrainian Security Service’s investigative division, in an interview with ABC News.