The Prep December 15, 2015

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Tuesday,

December 15, 2015 Volume I Issue IV

State Champions 2015 Saturday, Aug 29 Loyola - 35 Marquette - 0 Friday, Sept 4 Loyola - 49 Maine South - 8 Saturday, Sept 12 Loyola - 28 Brother Rice - 0 Saturday, Sept 19 Loyola - 54 Fenwick - 16 Saturday, Sept 26 Loyola - 35 St. Ignatius - 7 Friday, Oct 2 Loyola - 31 Providence - 7 Saturday, Oct 10 Loyola - 42 DePaul Prep - 0 Friday, Oct 16 Loyola - 56 St. Rita - 14 Saturday, Oct 24 Loyola - 49 Mount Carmel - 21

Round One Saturday, October 31

Loyola - 31 West Aurora - 0

What’s Inside?

Round Two Saturday, November 7

Quarterfinals Saturday, November 14

Semifinals Saturday, November 21

Championship Saturday, November 28

Gonzaga Drive page 3

Terrorist attack in Paris page 5

Climate Conference page 6

Mockingjay Review page 7

Loyola - 49 Stevenson - 0

Loyola - 34 HF - 28

Loyola - 24 Palatine - 22

Loyola - 41 Marist - 0

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The Prep Editor-in-Chief Melody Ogoke

Moderator Ms. Katie Klein

EDITORIALS

Loyola Academy’s Oldest Organization Founded September 20, 1912

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Letter from the Editor

Tuesday, December 15, 2015 Contributors

Thomas Murphy, Charlie Power, Madeleine Quackenbush, Kelly Reichert, Claire Finley, Julieanne Montaquila, Karen Collins, Elizabeth Halleron, Terrance Moran, Chiamaka Osuji, Nicole Wetoska, Thompson Scheiwder, Elizabeth Dudzik, Charlie Cronin, Neil Gorman, Brady Reichert, and Patrick Tata

Rhetoric: A Dangerous Game

It is the time of year when it’s difficult to go anywhere without

Charlie Power: Current Events Editor

hearing something related to Christmas. Normally, people begin

The terror attacks in both Paris and San Bernardino, California, have

their excitement before Thanksgiving, armed with Christmas mu-

exposed new fears about the ability of Western security forces to pro-

sic, wish lists, and decorations, but this year those around me

tect against a new generation of radicalized individuals. Perhaps more disturbing than this, though, is the decisive rhetoric that has dominated

seemed to be in agreement to hold off until after Thanksgiving.

media headlines. Just a few days ago, Donald Trump advocated for

Honestly for me, the Christmas music in general is too much for

Muslims to be barred from entering the United States until govern-

me, especially when I’m shopping and in three different stores the same song is playing, in three different versions. Not only does the music bother me, but the snow does, too. I believe it makes the trees appear beautiful, but when it’s on the ground, turns into slush, and slows traffic, I develop other feelings.

ment officials can “figure out what is going on” after fourteen were killed and twenty-one injured in California. Trump has also called for a database to track Muslims and to monitor American mosques.

In a reaction to the Paris attacks, many governors, including Bruce Rauner of Illinois, released statements saying they would refuse to accept refugees in their states. Senator and presidential candidate Ted Cruz recently proposed a bill

With Christmas also come the present exchange games with-

that would only allow Christian refugees to enter the country.

in classes, friend groups, family members. Before you know it,

These statements and proposed policies are not just bigotry, they

you’re spending a large amount of money on items you’re not even

are shameful. They do nothing to facilitate a legitimate discussion of the most effective way to achieve a lasting peace in the Middle

sure they will like. And even you yourself will most likely receive

East or how to keep ordinary Americans safe. ISIS perpetuates a

a gift that isn’t ideal. When you find yourself in this position, re-

narrative that they are at war with the West, and what better way to

member that Christmas is not really about the presents. Christmas is about being with your friends and family and spreading love.

drive more disenfranchised Muslims into their ranks by proposing policies that makes them targets and outsiders based on their faith.

When Donald Trump is flanked by throngs of supporters continues

Just as Christmas is approaching a bit too fast, so are final

to lead poll after poll in a major political party, the world watches

exams. Conversing with other seniors, everyone seems slight-

and concludes that this is what Americans must believe. How hypo-

ly nervous or completely nervous. The pressure is minimal for

critical of us, founded by immigrants fleeing religious persecution, to shut the door on others who are now doing the exact same thing.

those who have been accepted to college, but for some students,

Giving a safe haven to refugees from Syria who are trapped between

this semester can really determine their future. One thing is

ISIS, who wants to implement Shar’ia law, and a Assad regime that

for certain; senioritis is slowly creeping into everyone’s minds and becoming the topic of conversations. Not only are seniors

has used chemical weapons against its own citizens is not a political issue, it is a moral one. Too often we dehumanize and regard these refugees as part of the problem when they are the ones fleeing the vio-

looking forward to finals, but also that first day we arrive back

lence. While American security should always be a top concern, the

from break which signifies the reduction of our stress levels

current refugee screening process is vigorous. It generally takes more

and the countdown to May 28th. At that point, we can sit back,

than 18-24 months for a refugee’s status to be approved. In addition, Syrian refugees are already subjected to enhanced background checks.

relax, and make senior year the way it should be, enjoyable.

During an election year, decisive rhetoric may be considered

I hope everyone has a fantastic break, stays warm, and ar-

the norm, but we have a reached a point where both our nation-

rives back refreshed and ready to conquer Semester 2.

Melody Ogoke Editor-in-Chief

al image and ideals are corroded by the

contiueation of derra-

gotry comments. Our reaction to the refugee crisis and acts of terror is a test of America’s character, we must decide if we truly value freedom, tolerance, and inclusion as much as we think.

The Prep

la nEWS

Tuesday, December 15, 2015

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Ramblers Give to More than Just Their Families Karen Collins Junior Writer

If you’re hearing the endless loop of Christmas songs on the radio and seeing the blur of red and green when you step out your door, I’m sure you’re well aware that the holiday season is in full swing. In this time of joy and giving, Loyola Academy makes sure to spread that joy not only amongst the student body but in our community as well.

The Gonzaga food drive is an outlet for students around the holiday season to help sponsor a family.

The food drive raises food and fulfills families’ wish lists by asking homerooms to raise a set goal of money.

Students are also asked to bring in food for the families. This season of plenty is exemplified by the giving Ignatius spirit that is embodied by the students who are so motivated to give. This year the Gonzaga drive worked with Catholic Charities and Maternity BVM to bring the Christmas spirit to families

Juniors Matthew Moriarity and Charlie Power, members of LAST, organize donations for the Gonzaga Christmas Drive.

Photo Courtesy The Year

in the Chicagoland area.

This season Loyola homerooms, aided by the Principal’s office and Campus Ministry, helped ninety families comprised of 367 individuals. Ramblers pledged to raise $27,835 but raised an impressive $33,832.94. The giving spirit is truly alive and well in the halls of Loyola.

As a homeroom rep myself, I can testify to the fact that every bit helps and that it’s a great event that helps many around the holidays.

Being involved in the organization is really an uplifting thing to participate in, for the past three years each homeroom I have represented has really gotten involved in bringing in the food and making a more personal connection with the family as they learn their story.

“It’s actually quite touching to know that you’re helping a family out around the holidays, it feels awesome to know that your contribution is going towards a child’s Christmas list that is

going to make their holiday a lot happier” said fellow rambler Ana Divito ‘17.

Gonzaga is a great way to get involved it touches the hearts of many, Mr. Baier a campus minister who is involved in the drive shared some of the touching words that the recipients of the gifts said “As we were giving the gifts to the kindergarten teacher at Maternity BVM, the teacher was almost in tears from the happiness she knows the families will have due to the

generosity of the drive, the impact on the community is so large and truly echoes the true meaning of Christmas.

The families appreciate that people care about their situation, the Gonzaga drive for many families strengthens their family bonds as they are able to celebrate this special holiday.”

As you can see not only does the Gonzaga food drive raise money and food but also the spirits and happiness of many, in the words of Mr. Baier “Through you’re volunteering in the Gonzaga food drive you’re going to make many families’ Christmases very special, and I hope that the families of Loyola have a Merry Christmas themselves for they have touched many hearts.”

If you’re interested in getting involved with the Gonzaga Drive, Campus ministry has information about the event every year and reps come to your homeroom, but if you can’t wait to get involved in the community, remember, you can always get involved in Arrupe. Happy Holidays!

Teens: Sleep All Day, Homework All Night Elizabeth Halleron Freshman Writer

When you think of sleep deprivation, teenagers should come to mind. Adolescents are infamous for not getting the recommended amount of sleep, and there are reasons why (besides staying up too late watching TV or playing videogames, like most parents think). For example, lack of sleep can be caused by puberty, academics and co-curriculars, and how early school starts.

When thinking about teenagers, it is important to realize that the physical biology of growing up may have a serious effect on their sleep schedule. There is a biological shift that pushes their internal clock back about two hours. This means that even if a teen tries to go to bed around 9:00, he may not be able to actually fall asleep un-

til 11:00. This also means he would wake up two hours later in the morning.

School and co-curriculars can have a huge impact on teens’ ability to fall asleep.

The amount of homework adolescents are receiving rises by year, and as an effect, bedtime gets later and later. After school sports or other co-curricular activities, while necessary to get into a good school later in life, can limit time to get homework done and limit time to sleep.

According to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), 83%, of schools in America start before 8:30, which is the earliest recommended start time. If the average teenager falls asleep at 11:00 PM, and wakes up at 6:30 AM, then he would get 7.5 hours of sleep per night. According to statistics, 67% of teenagers get around that amount of sleep per

night, even though studies have shown that they need 8.5-9.25 hours per night.

Professor Russell Foster, a top brain doctor, has said that making teens wake up in the morning is “cruel” and that they would achieve more if school started in the afternoon.

Lack of sleep can affect mood, behavior, cognitive ability, and academic performance. 33% of students say they fall asleep in class most days.

It is important to realize that teenagers are not adults. Adults can wake up early for work and be able to function normally, but adolescents do not yet have that ability. Pushing back start times for schools would increase academic ability, which is a top priority for schools.

Adolescents constantly feel the pressure from parents and teachers to get good grades so they could get into a good college so

Lack of sleep can change mood, perception, and academics in teenagers.

Photo Courtesy Prep Staff

they can get a good job. But making teens wake up earlier than they should could deprive them of their ability to work toward those goals.

However, there are ways for kids to avoid sleep deprivation and its effects.

Maintaining a regular sleep schedule and taking twenty minute afternoon naps are beneficial. Another good thing to do is to avoid oversleeping on weekends. Catching up on missed sleep is great, but it will make it harder to wake up the coming Monday. Finally, avoiding substances, such as caffeine, and turning off TVs and other electronics will boost adolescents’ ability to sleep.

Overall, sleep is a necessary function that is often put as a last resort in today’s society. Nothing should be more important than a person’s ability to function, so care about sleep!

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The Prep

La News

Tuesday, December 15, 2015

Higher Education: The Search is On Thomas Murphy LA News Editor

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! No, I’m not talking about Christmas season, and I’m not talking about No-School November either (RIP). I’m referring to the glorious season that is college application season, when all the seniors get to send a report of whatever they’ve been doing with their lives over the past four years and see what a panel of adults thinks of it.

As I still am only a junior, I have not yet had the honor of asking people I’ve never met if they think I’m better than someone else. However I was able to head east in order to tour some colleges I probably won’t get into.

My dad and I landed in Boston about four hours after school dismissed on the Friday before Thanksgiving Break. We spent the following day touring the city, visiting the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and eating food. Sunday was our first real visit: Boston College. The first thing I realized was that 9:00 on a Sunday morning after a football game is not the best time to visit a college campus. After climbing up the hill that BC sits on, there were no students to be seen. As the day wore on, however, several students dressed in their best Sunday Groutfits stumbled out of their respective dorms, into the dining hall, and then back into their dorms. After a few hours at Boston’s

premier Jesuit institution, my dad and I headed out.

As we drove from BC to our next destination, I noticed signs directing towards Cambridge, Massachusetts, only a few minutes away from where we were.

Now, I’m an optimist when it comes to college, but even I acknowledge that the chances of me being accepted into Harvard are, to put it mildly, “quite unlikely.”

Knowing that this would be the last time I’d be in Cambridge without a definite “No” from Harvard’s Admissions Committee, I decided to take the opportunity to visit. Harvard was surprisingly casual. There was no leaf pick-up on campus, and it seemed that the best place to get food were several food trucks just outside Harvard Yard.

My favorite part of Harvard was just outside the University’s walls: a small Curious George gift shop, the only of its kind in the world. I left Harvard knowing that Curious George, the cartoon monkey, is closer to getting into Harvard than I am.

My dad and I left the Boston area, taking the three hour drive west towards Williams College. On Monday morning we swung by the Admissions Offices and began our self-guided tour of the college. The biting wind swept over the campus and drove us inside several buildings, all of which seemed more like a club than a school due to their relatively modest size and modernity. After several

Worcester, Massachusetts, is the snowiest city in America, and the College of the Holy Cross’s location on a hill provides excellent sledding grounds.

Photo Courtesy AP

hours and a pair of meals, the college search pushed on.

Multi-hour long drives and conversations with my dad can, similar to our route, take many turns. Topics ranged from standardized testing and my future to the remarkable mpg of the Ford Focus. As the trip wore on, our conversations became more and more off-topic, at times seemingly incoherent. The changing of song lyrics to fit our situation was common, and Peter, Paul, and Mary’s “Five Hundred Miles” soon became the theme for our drives. While it was exciting to look at colleges and learn more about the upcoming important and transformative period of my life, what I value most from our trip was the time I spent with my father.

Of the six total colleges we visited, we only took two student-guided tours.

Harvard University is the alma mater of several notable public figures including John F. Kennedy, Theodore Roosevelt, and Mel Gibson.

Photo Courtesy AP

At the beginning of each tour, each prospective student is asked his name, where he is from, and often what he is interested in studying. These introductions are the worst part of a college experiment. It’s not that I’m afraid of speaking to groups or afraid of being judged. Rather it seems that every person in these groups seems to know exactly what they want to do.

Seventeen-year-old kids were saying that they are going to study “biological chemistry with a focus on enzyme mechanisms and macromolecular crystallography,” while all I could say was “I’m still considering my options” or the evervague major of “academia.”

I don’t know where I want to go to college, much less what I actually want to do there! From now on I’ll just stick to “business, science, math, or some sort of liberal art” as my go-to answer.

Our final college visit had a dual-purpose: to visit and tour the college and to pick up my sister who was attending that school. The College of the Holy Cross sits high on a hill, and it makes sure that you know it. I figured that at least if I go to Holy Cross I would be able to fend off the notorious “freshman fifteen” by going up and down stairs all day long to get to my classes. After our official tour, I was able to sit-in on my sister’s final class of the week. The course was English, and they were re-

viewing a book the students were supposed to read over the past few weeks. Whether or not anyone in the class actually read the book I am not sure, but I do know that similar to how I was during my ninth-period class the Friday before break, their eyes were on the clock.

When I returned home from New England, I spent Thanksgiving with my college-age cousins who had just returned from their respective colleges. The schools my fellow younger cousins and I are looking at was a topic throughout the night, but what I realized by watching my older cousins is that wherever I end up, I’m likely to enjoy my time there. Where you attend college is important, but what matters is not so much whether it is the best academic school you were accepted into, rather it is whether that school fits your personality and interests. In high school, you should work hard and do as well as you can, but don’t let the pressure get to you.

Keep your head up as we enter finals week, as what your score is on a test or paper isn’t what defines you, it’s what you do outside of the numbers and letters that really counts.

Look toward this winter break with excitement and see it as a time to relax and let go of what has troubled you over the past semester.

It is, of course, the most wonderful time of the year.

The Prep

Current Events

Tuesday, December 15, 2015

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Terrorist Attacks Prove Deadly in Paris Terrence Moran Freshman Writer On the 13 of November, France’s National Football Team was scheduled to face off against the German National Football Team in a match of soccer. This was a friendly match for the teams, as France was ranked fourth in the UEFA league, and Germany was ranked third.

France was playing at their home stadium, Le Stadede-France. CNN reports that at least 80,000 fans, including the President of France (François Hollande), were present at the Stadium.

Nearly twenty minutes into the match, an explosion was heard from outside the stadium; fans cheered the explosion, assuming it was some

kind of firework. Shortly after, a second explosion was heard, this time it came from inside the stadium.

Authorities were in a tough position. The streets were not safe nor did they want to endanger 80,000 or so people by evacuating them from the stadium. On the other hand, the stadium itself was under attack, leaving the fans inside in a dangerous situation as well. Three bombs in total were set off at the stadium, leaving dozens injured and one killed.

After the game was over, with France coming out on top with a score of 2-0, the players found out about the attacks, and luckily were unharmed. François Holland was evacuated from

the stadium early into the game. Post evaluation of the scene shows that the attackers were equipped to wearable suicide vests, and the bomber detonated it right outside of one of the stadium entrances.

The Tuesday after the horrific attacks, France’s National Football Team was set to play England’s National Football Team at Wembley Stadium in England. Security was on high alert, and armed police were patrolling the Stadium. At the Wembley match, fans and players from both sides of the field began singing in unity “La Marseillaise,” the national anthem of France. Normally, England does not play the anthem of the opposing team, but

Civilians are evacuated from the stadium after the terrorist attacks in Paris.

Photo Courtesy AP

this was certainly a special occasion. Common people wrote “La Marseillaise” during the French Revolution; consequently, the song is about overthrowing ty-

rants, and defying limits of any sorts. This signifies that the threats made by ISIS will not be tolerated, and France will not be afraid.

Refugee Crisis Exposes Global Conflict Chiamaka Osuji Sophomore Writer Arab Spring toppled some countries’ rulers who had been in power for decades, and the benefit is for those countries to enjoy democracy for a long time. But, it is debatable and doubtful if the outcome has resulted in beneficial democratic states or rather destabilized the region, such as in Libya and Egypt. The one burning now is the State of Syria with a lot of people displaced with factions fighting among themselves resulting in high fatalities and the exodus of citizens of Syria to neighboring countries with most of them heading to Europe.

The influx of refugees to Europe not only causes economic havoc but also increases the risk of terrorism. This massive migration of people hasn’t been seen since WWII when refugees fled the Nazi advance and later the devastation left behind. Refugees have to be sympathized and empathized with, but in this day and age when they are linked with terrorist activities, it makes things more arduous for the refugees who are sincerely looking for safer and better conditions for their families. Case in point is the recent Paris attack.

It is abhorrent that terror-

ists would take advantage of refugees looking for a better life for their families by hiding in their midst. It is alleged that some of those that participated in Paris massacre

United States some politicians vehemently disagree with President Obama’s administration to take in some refugees. Statements by some presidential hopefuls

Hundreds of thousands of refugees make their way from Syrian to Europe in hopes of safety from ISIS and civil war.

Photo Courtesy AP

had links with the refugees migrating from Syria and other Middle East countries.

It created more scrutiny of the refugees and resistance by some nations to absorb the refugees. It has become a political boiling point in some nations. Some people and governments have become xenophobic and antiIslam because of the Paris attack. For instance, in the

used this incident to scare the American people. To a degree, I agree with those politicians for their demagoguery and innuendo, but let us not forget that except for the natives here, all of us in the United States are immigrants or descendants of immigrants.

The conflicts in Iraq and ongoing civil war in Syria are played out by the su-

perpowers and some other countries involvement, especially in Syria. Russia is there propping up President Assad’s government. United States and France are there bombing territories held by ISIS. Russia is bombing both the territories held by ISIS and the rebels, so there are several factions fighting in Syria to topple President Assad. Recently, Turkey shut down a Russian war plane that entered into its air space. Tension is brewing in Syria that could result to something more than expected. The neighboring countries are saturated with refugees fleeing the war in Syria and that wrecks economic havoc to those countries.

It has been suggested that to help stop the influx of refugees to Europe, the governments who are helping the refugees with United Nations should establish infrastructures accommodating the refugees in neighboring countries that they migrated to, to look for shelter. If those amenities are provided they will lessen the desire of the refugees to head to Europe. They will stay closer to home to monitor events and easily return home to rebuild their nations. Those countries involved, whether supporting Assad’s regime or the rebels, if they do not

get together the conflict will continue because they have different agendas. Russia is there to save President Assad’s government while the United States with its allies like England, who recently stepped up its military presence in the region, and Saudi Arabia aim to replace the president. Common ground needs to be reached to eliminate or neutralize ISIS and unite the nation without President Assad.

The geo-political issues in the Middle East should be resolved expeditiously in order to avert the influx of refugees to Europe. Bombs and wars will not be enough to bring peace to the territories. The Arab league should do more rather than to let the West determine the fate of the territories, which is always tense due to cultural and religious differences. The citizens of the territories involved in the conflict think that when the West gets involved, it is ethnocentric, which those in Arab world will not accept it. Those who are sincerely trying to stabilize the territories should find amicable solutions to the problem, which will result in the fulfillment of the promises of the Arab Spring and stop the influx of refugees to Europe.

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The Prep

Current Events

Tuesday, December 15, 2015

World Leaders Combat Climate Change Charlie Power Current Events Editor According to NASA and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 2014 was the hottest year in recorded human history. It was in this context that delegates from over 200 countries gathered in Paris over the last two weeks to discuss a broad framework to reach a climate change agreement. Many leaders came to the talks with a sense of urgency, calling for action as the effects of a warming planet had already wreaked havoc on their countries through stronger hurricanes, wildfires, and droughts. After the first week of negotiations, diplomats unveiled a draft document of their proposals to attempt to limit global warming to 2 degrees Celsius, which experts maintain is the maximum amount humanity can afford to avoid devastating effects.

There is a general sense of optimism in the final weeks of the talks, but it is uncertain if countries can come together without walking away, which was how the last climate summit ended in 2009. The biggest

point of contention in the current talks is the debate over the responsibility to limit emissions between developed nations, who already contributed to the vast majority of the pollution in the 20th century, and unindustrialized nations who want to strike a balance between curbing emissions and improving living standards of their people, which is typically powered by pollution heavy economic growth. To address this, one of the proposals discussed in the talks was to create a fund to finance clean energy technologies in underdeveloped nations, which several countries, including the U.S., pledged to support.

(Note: The final results of the Climate Conference were unavailable at press time).

Even if Paris talks yield an agreement, the U.S. Congress and public at large remain divided. A Pew Research Center poll found a 48 point gap in the percentage of Americans saying Global climate change is a very serious problem between Republicans (20%) and Democrats (68%). Those two opposing viewpoints are demonstrated on the national

President Barack Obama addresses world leaders at the Paris Climate Talks.

Photo Courtesy AP

level, with President Obama empowering the EPA to issue new guidelines regulating emissions produced by power plants under the Clean Power Plan, designed to r neduce U.S carbon levels by 26%.

Mr. Obama’s administration has been working on the International level to reach a consensus with other nations. In an address in Paris, Obama tried to rally world leaders, “We are the first generation to feel the impact of climate change and the last generation that can do something about it.”

Back in the United States,

the Republican dominated Congress has thwarted any attempts to architect any federal legislation to deal with climate change. In a rebuke to the consensus of the scientific community, Senate voted 50-49 last year that climate change is not caused by human activity (only five Republican Senators voted against). In addition the House has passed a resolution attempting to block several EPA power plant regulations.

Under the current hostile environment, there is no chance a potential climate change treaty from Paris would

be ratified by the Senate.

Despite the pushback from Congress, U.S. diplomats have continued to negotiate in the hopes that a deal can be reached. President Obama has pledged to act unilaterally if need be to show other world leaders the U.S. can and will do its part. No one is really sure when the point of no return is with regards to the amount of carbon emitted, but it is probably not a good sign that NASA predicts 2015 is on track to break 2014’s record for the hottest year in recorded human history.

Congress Impedes Immigration Reform Thompson Schweider Junior Writer One year after President Barack Obama issued an executive order calling for the halt on deportation threats for nearly five million immigrants undocumented in the United States, the country’s courts system is proving itself an effective obstacle for the President’s agenda.

In November, a federal appellate court found the order to be unconstitutional; their consensus being that Obama has overstepped his authority in the office of president by so dramatically changing the nation’s policy.

When the President first put forth the executive order in 2014, he faced outspoken and immediate criticism from Republican leaders, all more or less arguing that Obama did not have the legal authority to enact such a change.

Then-House Speaker John Boehner (ROhio) said “The American people want both parties to focus on solving problems together; they don’t sup-

port unilateral action from a president who is more interested in partisan politics than working with the people’s elected representatives. That is not how American democracy works.”

Although it is undeniable that President Obama ultimately circumvented the legislative branch to advance immigration reform, his fellow Democrats argue that the president’s actions are entirely within the parameters of the law.

“As far as I can tell, every president in the modern era has issued some executive action on immigration. So he’ll be on pretty firm legal ground,” speculated former President Bill Clinton.

Sen. Harry Reid (DNevada) said “President Obama is doing what he can within his well-established constitutional authority.”

The problem with executive action is that it is a broad and somewhat vague category of power. It can be immediately enacted by the executive branch but also reversed by laws passed in Congress as well as deci-

Pope Francis made a historic Congressional Address this past September.

Photo Courtesy AP

sions in the courts. Executive orders can also be reversed the day President Obama leaves office if his successor decides to do so, a day quickly approaching, only a little over a year away.

Although this particular action is receiving a considerable amount of opposition, the President has issued many other executive orders in the past, several on other controversial or divisive issues like gun control and LGBT rights that have survived.

To date, President Obama has issued fewer executive or-

ders than his predecessor, George W. Bush, did at this point in his own presidency.

In the wake of the appellate court ruling against the President’s order, the Obama Administration is furiously pushing for the case to be heard by the Supreme Court with the hopes of fanning out the flames of opposition once and for all. The only problem being that the case might not be heard for months, possibly even closer to a year.

The American people could be closer to electing a new president than the court

could be to hearing the case.

Newly-installed House Speaker Paul Ryan (R-Wisconsin) says that he believes that the issue of immigration needs to be addressed in “small steps,” rather than with a single umbrella law.

Standing firm in defense of his action, the President has not been without a firm response to his critics, “To those members of Congress who question my authority to make our immigration system work better, or question the wisdom of me acting where Congress has failed, I have one answer: Pass a bill.”

The Prep

ARts & Entertainment

Tuesday, December 15, 2015

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Flurries of Christmas Fun in Chicago Elizabeth Dudzik Senior Writer It’s that time. Christmastime is here. Everybody knows there’s not a better time of year. Hear that sleigh? Santa’s on his way.

Hip, hip hooray, for Christmas vacation!

Loyola Academy is ready for the most wonderful time of the year. Hallways are decorated with any and all things Christmas: lights, streamers, candy canes, snowflakes. The Christmas tree glistens in the main lobby and the gentle manger warms the frigid outside. Students and teachers have been counting down the days since mid-November, but with finals just around the corner, Christmas is almost here.

After a stressful and sleepless preparation for the dreaded final exams, everyone will enjoy our two week, schoolfree Christmas vacation.

City sidewalks, busy sidewalks, dressed in holiday style.

In the air there’s a feeling of Christmas.

There is definitely a feeling of Christmas in Chicago. Chicago celebrates Christmas with class, tradition, and a lot of hot cocoa. With two weeks off of

school, we have plenty of time to enjoy Christmas in Chicago.

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas everywhere you go.

There’s a tree in the grand hotel. One in the park as well; the sturdy kind that doesn’t mind the snow.

The beautiful tree of Macy’s Walnut Room.

Photo Courtesy AP

So where are the best spots to be for Christmas in Chicago? Millennium Park must be at the top of that list. Not only does Millennium have the most magical and beautiful scene for ice-skating – underneath our renounced skyscrapers and next to the Bean

– but now the tree from Daley Plaza stands tall in the park as well. At Christmastime, Millennium Park transforms into a winter wonderland, providing Chicagoans a picturesque glimpse of what it may feel like in a snow globe. Go skate along to fun music, stare up at the 63-foot tall Colorado spruce tree, and smile at your reflection in the Bean with the city as your backdrop.

Here comes Santa Claus, here comes Santa Claus, riding down Santa Claus Lane. He’s got a bag that’s filled with toys for boys and girls again.

Marshall Fields, a.k.a. Macy’s, is another sight to see at Christmastime. The Holiday Windows on State Street have been a Chicago Christmas tradition since 1897, so go downtown and see the 2015 Christmas windows story, “Santa’s Journey to the Stars.” This year, the windows tell of the adventures of a little boy who experiences Christmas on other planets through a magical telescope. Though this story is not as great as the ones that used to be designed and displayed

by Marshall Fields, this is one of the better window displays at Macy’s since they bought Marshall Fields in 2005. Each

scene is detailed and colorful, almost like an eye-spy picture.

Another Christmas tradition at Marshall Fields is the Walnut Room. Sit underneath the tree and enjoy a tasty meal with your friends or family, or go up to the top floor to have a bird’seye view of the Walnut Room.

Oh, all the lights are shining so brightly everywhere. And the sound of children’s laughter fills the air.

Zoolights at Lincoln Park Zoo is a special Christmas experience in Chicago, too. The entire zoo is decorated with assortments of colorful holiday lights: some wrap tightly around the trees; some move like monkeys swinging or dolphins jumping. The best, however, are the ones synched to music for a light display, flashing along the ground and in the trees to the beat of the Christmas song. The first 1,000 people each night receive little glasses that make the lights dance and twinkle as you move your head. There is an ice-skating rink at the zoo, as well as arts and crafts for children. The zoo also has nightly ice carving demonstrations, which, to say the least, are quite impressive. Grab a mug of hot cocoa and enjoy this idyllic winter scene

through the third of January.

Chestnuts roasting on an open fire. Jack Frost nipping at your nose. Yule-tide carols being sung by a choir. And folks dressed up like Eskimos.

Looking for one more spot to hit on your Christmas tour of Chicago? Go to Christkindlmarket! Dress warmly because everything here is outside. Even in the cold, Daley Plaza is filled with tents of iconic German items, hand-blown ornaments, and handcrafts, as well as authentic German food and beverages. If you are looking for a quality nutcracker to gift to your best friend or sibling this Christmas, Christkindlmarket is the place for you. But go soon because the market is closed by Christmas Eve! Have a holly, jolly Christmas.

It’s the best time of the year.

As you study for finals, know that there is a light at the end of the tunnel because Christmas will be waiting for you at the other end. We live in one of the coolest cities of the world, so let’s enjoy Chicago at this magical time of the year. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

The Hunger Games Meets Its Fearsome Finale Claire Finley Freshman Writer The Hunger Games movie saga is concluded at last with its dramatic finale, Mockingjay Part 2. From higher production quality on horrifying jump scares to the actors’ nearly palpable sentiment, this movie brings it all.

It packs a punch of emotions, and stands out from the rest of the movies as having more depth, feeling, and also gore.

The movie switches between tender moments, like the love of the heroine Katniss (Jennifer Lawrence) for her sister, Prim, (Willow Shields) and fierce, violent battle scenes, inevitably ending in someone pivotal’s death. The tail end of the chronicle by Suzanne Collins plays out Katniss’ struggle as the face of the rebellion, the Mockingjay. Katniss must ultimately take down her entire society’s reigning dictator, President Snow (Donald Sutherland), while simultaneously managing her relationships with her on-again-offagain boyfriend Peeta (Josh

Hutcherson), who has been brainwashed by Snow, and her friend Gale (Liam Hemsworth), who wants to be more than Katniss’ friend.

Katniss’ journey slowly unfurls as she leaves the underground base, ruled by President Coin (Julianne Moore). Coin hopes to take over Snow’s reign once he has been eliminated and run the country under a less severe rule. Katniss embarks on the perilous journey to take out President Snow accompanied by a squadron of ten rebels, including Gale, Katniss’ friend Finnick from the second Hunger Games book, Catching Fire, and the still-mentally ill Peeta, who isn’t sure which side he’s on. Along the way, they encounter “pods,” which are the Capitol’s form of defense against the rebels, brutally murdering most of the squad, be it by streets turning into burning oil, bombs, or lizard mutations (mutts) that really give you the creeps.

When what’s left of the squadron finally reaches Snow’s mansion, they are met by absolute chaos of ci-

vilians, combat between the rebels and the Capitol’s security force, the Peacemakers, and finally bombs killing most of the city’s children, causing the Capitol to surrender. Once the rebels have successfully taken over the Capitol, Coin calls upon Katniss to once-and-for-all eliminate President Snow using her talent with a bow and arrow.

*SPOILER ALERT* Katniss, given one, special arrow, and Snow tied to a post, is instructed to shoot, and everyone observing knows that she doesn’t miss. However, Katniss takes her shot. . . at President Coin, killing her instead. Snow dies anyway, of a seriously scary, bloody coughing fit while enraged rebels attack him with their fists, leaving both leaders dead. Coin’s second in command, Plutarch Heavensbee (Philip Seymour Hoffman), takes control of the country, and Katniss knows it is in far better hands with him rather than Coin, who ultimately had greedy motives and would enslave the people

just as they had been before.

The movie ends with a touching epilogue, a nowcompletely-sane Peeta playing with his and Katniss’ son while Katniss sits watching, talking lovingly to their second-born, an infant, promising to tell the child her painful past once it is old enough to understand.

Basically, Mockingjay Part

2 left me on the edge of my seat the whole time. The action and emotion filled movie is certainly one to remember. It is definitely more violent than its predecessors and is probably not suitable for young kids, but it is an amazing thriller for teens and adults, and will satisfy the eager fans of the series immensely.

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The Prep

Fun & GAmes

The December Prep Challenge

This month, solve the crossword puzzle on all things Christmas! Be the first to being a correctly completed puzze to Ms. Klein in the English office to win a prize. Good luck, Ramblers!

What is your hardest final?

What is your favorite thing about the winter?

Tuesday, December 15, 2015

Charlie Cronin’s Comic Corner

What is the best present you ever received for Christmas?

How long did you believe in Santa Claus and who ruined it for you?

Do you have holiday plans?

Christmas shopping

Probably my little sister

I believed in him until sixth grade. I found I’m going to Rockford, out after my mom Illinois, to see my ruined the Toothfairy, family. so I just figured.

No more mosquitos

A signed picture of Walter Payton

When I was eight I kind of just found out for myself.

To get as much sleep as I can

Lots of hot chocolate

A guitar

I believed in him until fifth grade when my teacher ruined it for me.

Getting excited for the Dance Company B show next month

AP Spanish Literature

Lots of hot chocolate

Country Thunder tickets

The hardest thing about finals is watching my psych class fail.

When the temperature goes up from 0 to 20 degrees, and the smell of the brisk air.

My daughter

English Evelyn Benvenuto ‘19

Honors Spanish John Mullins ‘18

Honors Latin 3 - it’s a killer.

Sarah Dwyer ‘17

My friends and I are After a kid ruined it for having a “Friendsmas,” me in fourth grade, I and I’m going to celstopped believing. ebrate my birthday.

Kelsey McGarvey ‘16

Mr. Jekot

I am Santa Claus

To come in and practice my lectures

The Prep

Sports

Tuesday, December 15, 2015

9

Chicago Sports Bring Christmas Cheer Brady Reichert Freshman Writer As we wind down a remarkable year in sports, we’ve had lots to celebrate this year: a third Stanley Cup for the almighty Blackhawks, a National League Division Victory by the Cubs, and a perfect State Championship season by our own football team, to name a few! What’s equally exciting are all the smaller accomplishments going on right now that can only help to build greater teams next year! Here are a few Gifts of Christmas present: Blackhawks Patrick Kane beat Bobby Hull’s consecutive games with a point record by slapping a

Kane now holds the record for most consecutive games with a point scored, surpassing the great Bobby Hull.

Photo Courtesy AP

puck off his glove to help Artemi Panarin score. The point brought the record to twentytwo consecutive games, and seeing what his line has pro-

duced so far this year, this record could continue to be broken for many games to come. But as impressive as the record was to break, it was

the middle for the Ramblers’ second touchdown early in the second quarter. Then the floodgates opened as Loyola continued to pour on the points with Laja once again running in a touchdown and Clifford connecting with senior wide receiver Jonah Isaac for the third touchdown of the quarter.

Up by a comfortable 27 at half, the Ramblers returned to the field to receive the kick and once again find the endzone. This time it was Marwede who ran the ball in from two yards out. He would repeat that run later in the quarter to score Loyola’s sixth and final touchdown of the game.

The offense was helped by a continuation of the defense’s stellar play of the first half. Anthony Romano forced a fumble and Matt Sheridan intercepted the Marist quarterback en route to an impressive victory.

For most of the players, their favorite memory of the season was holding that trophy after fighting for it for the past four years. They felt this season, however, was special. Clifford believes, “I knew from the start of workouts in the offseason that we had something special. Then it really solidified in our first couple games.

Then it finally set in when I was pulled after we were up [in the championship game].”

For senior Billy Hanhardt, his favorite memory wasn’t just holding the trophy but, “getting to play. I usually don’t play so this was insane.” Reflecting on the game, Hanhardt added, “After months and months of hard work and practice, to finally be done and victorious is a feeling that is hard to describe.”

Clifford seemed to agree with him, saying of the win, “No words can describe it. All the emotions just came into one.”

Upon returning to school Monday, the team was greeted by a front lobby decorated with maroon and gold, courtesy of Varsity Cheer. The decorations celebrated their perfect season and acknowledged the players. Students were encouraged to wear spirit wear to celebrate the great accomplishments of all fall sports and clubs this semester. The day concluded with a pep rally in the gym.

Teams and individuals were recognized for their hard work.

In keeping with tradition, Coach Breitzman performed the school favorite “I’ve got that Rambler Spirit” and patented “Boom, Sweet!” cheer.

Then the football captains faced off against the girls vol-

equally impressive to see Bobby Hull, being the ultimate ambassador to hockey and to the Blackhawks, support Kane all the way and congratulate him as he broke his record.

Cubs The Cubs wasted no time at the winter meetings, and on the first day solidified their starting rotation by signing pitcher John Lackey from the Cardinals. With this signing, Lackey, Jon Lester and Theo Epstein are reunited again after forming a team in Boston and going on to winning a world series in 2013. Their new starting rotation is daunting, with Lester, Lackey and the Cy Young winner Arrieta; they will certainly be tough to beat. If you add Hendricks and Hammel, you could eas-

ily be looking at another post season berth a year from now.

Bears Well it’s hard to say the Bears are in the same league as the Hawks and the Cubs.

However, you could certainly say their new coach, John Fox, and revitalized quarterback, Jay Cutler, are starting to show the city what they have in store for the team. His vision of success was front and center a few weeks ago as Jay Cutler made their northern rival, Green Bay, look like a rookie team. His composure and skill were on display on the big screen as millions of football fans sat down with a plate of turkey and marveled at the Bears victory.

Loyola Ends Twenty-Two Year Drought Continued from page 10

would come out and play like we have in every other game.”

After winning the coin toss, Loyola chose to defer and send their formidable defense onto the field. They did not allow Marist to gain a single yard and forced a punt after just 32 seconds. The offense confidently took the field and drove down to the Marist endzone. After a 22-yard pass to Jake Marwede, the rushing game took over. Quarterback Emmett Clifford rushed from four yards out to score the first Loyola touchdown of the day.

The defense continued to stuff the Marist offense throughout the first quarter.

After a few offensive drives that ended outside the endzone, Clifford handed off to senior running back Dara Laja who ran it nine yards up

Jonah Isaac scores a touchdown to increase the Rambler lead against Marist.

Phoito Courtesy The Year

Thomas Smart catches a pass from Clifford and fights for yardage against the Marist defense.

Photo Courtesy The Year

leyball and field hockey captains in a tug-of-war. After an even start, the boys prevailed – once again Champions.

Coach Holecek and captains Badovinac and Clifford spoke to the student body. All three thanked the fans for their unflagging support of the team throughout the season – even in bad weather and long commutes. The team promised to come out and support other teams as they began their pursuit of a championship.

Jack Loper, looking back at the year said, “To win the game felt so rewarding. All the years of lifting and running to prepare for this season and this game finally paid off, and it felt amazing to finally win Coach Holecek his first championship.”

Looking forward to next year, Loper advised the team, “Work just as hard as you have

been. Just because you won last year doesn’t mean you can do it again without working just as hard. Every team is going to want to beat you guys because you’re the best, so work hard and be prepared.”

Clifford tells future Ramblers, “Just listen to the coaches and focus on one game at a time and the task at hand.”

Badovinac wants next year’s team to remember to “Work hard and enjoy every practice because before you know it, it will all be over. Have no regrets.”

Looking at the results, it is safe to say that is what was done. Finishing the state game brought tears to the eyes of some players followed by warm embraces with teammates, coaches, and family. The year was finished just how it had begun…in prayer.

10 The Prep

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Tuesday, December 15, 2015

Sports

UPCOMING SPORTS EVENTS Friday, December 18 Wrestling Tournament @ Glenbrook South @ 3:30 Boys Swimming vs. St. Ignatius @ 5:00

Saturday, December 19 Wrestling Tournament @ GBS @ 9:00 Boys Swimming @ Evanston @ 1:00 Boys Basketball @ Montini @ 4:30

Sunday, December 20 Girls Hockey vs. Evanston @ Heartland Arena @ 6:10

Tuesday, December 22 Girls Bowling Tournament vs. Mather @ St. Viator High School @ 10:00 Boys Basketball vs. Taft @ 3:00 Girls Basketball vs. Evanston @ 4:30

Monday, December 28 Thursday, December 31 Girls and Boys Basketball Tournament @ Mesa, Arizona

Saturday, January 2 Wrestling Meet vs. Lake Forest and Glenbrook North @ Lake Forest @ 10:00

Saturday, January 9 Hockey Quad Header @ Heartland Girls @ 4:00 Maroon @ 5:10 Gold @ 6:50 JV @ 9:00

Jake Marwede powers through the Marist defense for a Rambler first down.

Photo Courtesy The Year

14-0: A Perfect Season Patrick Tata Senior Writer On the field of NIU, the Loyola Academy Ramblers stood tall under those bright lights to receive the long awaited 8A championship. It had taken months of preparation and dedication. Some would argue years. It was also a night of firsts for the Loyola Academy Ramblers. It was the first undefeated 8A championship team Loyola Academy produced in the history of their football program. It was Coach John Holecek’s first championship in his ten years as Loyola Academy head coach.

Not to mention that it was also the first shutout in 8A history.

Overall, it was a dominant performance from the 2015 Rambler football team. That great feeling of victory could only be achieved by the hard work and dedication of the team.

After winning the Prep Bowl last year, Coach Holecek made it clear that he wanted more out of this year’s team. Lifting began immediately after the Prep Bowl, and the 2015 team began to form.

Under the relentless pursuit of perfection and leader of senior captains Dara Laja, Sam Badovinac, Emmett Clifford, and Bobby Desherow, more and more football players

began to see and believe in the goal of this year’s team.

After every film breakdown, Sam Badovinac reminded the team of what was at stake and the overall reason for working: Win State.

After achieving that goal after four years of hard work, he noted his favorite memory was holding up the trophy.

For Badovinac, winning State was “a dream come true.”

Leaders like Dara spoke through their actions on and off the field and set an example for every Rambler to follow. Bobby Desherow encouraged the defense week in and week out to study the week’s opponent and give 110% for the teammates beside you.

His words often incited a passion in the players before and after every practice, usually followed by teammate Charlie Rafferty cheering him on.

After winning state and having some time to reflect on the season, Desherow said, “My favorite memory of the season is shutting out our rivals Brother Rice. That is also the time I realized we could win State because Brother Rice was a top ranked team in the state and we beat them 28-0.”

Last but not least, Clifford led the team with his confidence and passion for the game. When the team got too cocky and over confident,

Clifford would remind the team of the journey traveled and the road left to conquer.

The synergy of these four captains produced a lethal group of football players that all bought into giving their all for the sake of the team. A message the coaches and specifically Head Coach Holecek preached was, “Just do your job.” This statement was made before every game after one of Father Foley’s prayers. Coach Holecek strived for his players to trust their teammates and perform at their best level.

The team certainly preformed at a mind-boggling level defeating all challengers and shutting out a fair number. The level of play during the championship game highlighted just how good the Rambler best is, shutting out Marist 41-0.

Going into the game, senior Jack Loper said, “I was a little nervous, like I assumed everyone was, but I was confident because I knew our coaches had prepared us well for this game.”

Seconding Loper’s feelings of nervousness was captain and quarterback Emmett Clifford. He remembers, “I had butterflies, of course, but I was confident in our guys that we

Continued on page 9