CRIER
jan. 21, 2022 volume 58 issue 6
munster high school 8808
columbia
ave. munster, IN
46321
Source: Google Forms survey of 45 students Jan. 10-13
PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY HENRY HOFFERTH
PANDEMIC PANDEMONIUM Feeling panicked, William Oar, freshman, demonstrates the stress of covid fatigue. As more people begin to go out, covid cases continue to rise. “I do not think (students) take (covid) very seriously,” William said. “Adults in general, they take the vaccine and they think [...] they’re all powerful.”
Nearly two years into the pandemic, students share their personal experiences REENA ALSAKAJI story editor
She never expected her life to look like this. August 2021, things were looking up for students, including Isidora Pavlic, junior. Following over a year of isolation, MHS was back in-person and, though it seems unfathomable to students now, masks were considered optional at the beginning of the year. There seemed to be light at the end of the tunnel. But as the months went by, the situation seemed to worsen—the Omicron variant appeared. As of Jan. 11, there were a reported 11,813 new cases in Lake County, more than at any other point in the pandemic. “(There are) always those worries constantly in the back of your head,” Isidora said. “Like, ‘Oh, what if I get sick?’ I’m really worried about my grandparents. And with the Omicron surge, I haven’t really been going plac-
es. I wear two masks and I do what I’m supposed to do. I’m getting increasingly nervous. I feel like there’s some people who don’t care and don’t ever care.” Indiana ranked the worst out of all 50 states in terms of being covid safe, in a ranking conducted by WalletHub. The rise in cases has not only impacted students’ lives in terms of safety, but nearly two years of isolation has led to something else—covid fatigue. Spending what seems like forever working to no avail, students struggle as no end to the repeated isolation is in sight. For many students, the urge to give in is frequent, and continuing to convert to new rules seems hopeless. “(The changes now) can be pretty overwhelming sometimes,” Clara Dumaresq, sophomore, said. “More often, it’s just like, ‘I can’t believe this is actually happening’—that I’m living through (this)...I think people are more or less just thinking ‘let’s get this
over with,’ and they just want it to be gone (and) they just don’t want to wear masks and that’s causing a bigger problem because it’s spreading even worse now.” Navigating teenage years is difficult enough on its own, according to students. With the added pressure of being thrown into a world that seems stuck on retaining its old foundations, interacting with other people seems harder than ever. Teenagers and youth in general have reported struggling the most with their mental health, according to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and interacting with others is part of this. “(The biggest way covid has affected me) honestly has to do with my social levels,” William Oar, freshman, said. “I’m an ‘antisocial-social person.’ I don’t really strike up a conversation unless they actually talk to me first. (Now), I talk less and don’t really interact with anyone.”
Adjusting to a pandemic that has been going on for months has taken a harsh toll on teenagers—especially when it comes to navigating a world that only seems to be getting worse. In addition to the hardships at school, many students’ struggles do not end there. Despite being nearly two years in the pandemic, and despite finally hoping for things to look up, many students have had to live with the fear of their loved ones getting covid. “My grandma recently just got (covid),” Adam Muntean, sophomore, said. “She’s in the hospital. We just found out she has pancreatic cancer, and we’re trying to get her into someone else’s care, but no one can take her because she’s positive. Now I can’t see her or go visit her in the hospital.”
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Over the span of the pandemic, challenges have ranged from dealing with the impact the virus has in itself to the aftereffects of prolonged isolation. Aside from relationships with family, relationships with friends have taken a turn. In a recent Crier survey of 45 students, 51% said the pandemic changed their relationships with their peers and 70% of that change was reported to be negative. “I was the new kid (in seventh grade) and I was like, ‘I’m gonna make friends,’ but I was (just) acquaintances (with people) and I did not have a phone. I didn’t have any social media,” Luna Gutierrez, freshman, said. “So the entire pandemic I literally talked to no one.” The progress of covid circumstances at MHS has varied greatly each month– from going to mask recommendations,to mask enforcements to the re-introduction of Blackboard Collaborate. As students returned following winter break, some were surprised at the decision to go back in-person—others believed it was the best choice considering the circumstances. But in terms of mental health and particularly covid fatigue, according to Isidora, there is always more to be done. “June or July (of 2021) was probably the lowest point for me. I feel like once we came back this year, (the administration) was trying so hard to go back to how it was before the pandemic that they kind of lost sight of the fact that we’re still in this (with) students’ mental health,” Isidora said. “For example, a mental health day isn’t a reason for an excused absence. I just cannot (stay home, even if) I’ve been up the whole night with terrible anxiety or a panic attack or whatever.” The feeling of not being heard is not just specific to MHS. All over the coun-
PHOTO BY HENRY HOFFERTH
Crier named Crown Finalist by Columbia Scholastic Press Association
Covid Stage by County
try, students have Counties in Stage Red have 200 or more cases a week been protesting per 100,000 residents. As of Jan.17, all counties are in their covid proto- Stage Red. cols through walkouts. In Chicago, students left their classrooms and marched in protest, demanding safer covid measures. This reflects the frustration of students, though schools are put in a tough situation as well, according to Delaney Craig, sophomore. “I think that (students) have the right to have their opinions, but schools are doing what they can while still educating the children,” Delaney said. “What’s most important is the future generation because those are the people that are going to be handling problems like this. I think (those students), voices should be heard and I think whoever’s at their school (can have) more safety precautions. We took away the shorter passing Stage Red periods and the one Source: IN.gov way hallway and the shields and I ILLUSTRATION BY REENA ALSAKAJI think those could be added back in if a b s o l u t e l y pushing through the circumstances is all necessary, but as of now, I think we’re one can do, according to students. doing fine.” “When you’re not seeing people (or) Covid has seeped its way into ev- going anywhere—friend stuff getting ery facet of life–it takes the form of canceled, shows for theatre or speech eroding mental health, changes rela- tournaments were moved online—it’s tionships and its prolonging slowly isolating and loneliness can lead to havstrips at teenage resilience. There has ing mental health problems,” Delaney been speculation by some that covid said. “I think that (the pandemic) has will eventually turn into something amplified (mental health issues), but reminiscent of the flu, but until then, you also find new ways to deal with it.”
STM to welcome new superintendent
School board testifies against HB 1182
ATARAH ISRAEL
editor-in-chief Traveling roughly 1,500 miles to take on the job of superintendent, Mr. Bret Heller will officially start his new position at School Town of Munster July 1. Although the current deputy superintendent of West Ada School District in Meridian, Idaho, does not take on his new role until the summer, groundwork is already being laid for his transition to STM, which includes making two week-long visits to Munster in March and May. “Everything starts with relationships,” Mr. Heller said. “I want to listen. I want to learn. I don’t want to fix things that are not broken. But I do want to spend time looking for where the opportunities are to make our system even better. To me that all starts with building trust and getting to know people.” Coming from an over 20 year career at a district with 40,000 students and 57 schools, Mr. Heller plans to make connections with students and faculty through formal meetings and also close-knit bonds on an individual level. “I want to have those informal conversations in the hallway,” Mr. Heller said. “I love going to school performances whether that be the athletic teams, or whether it be a drama performance or choir performance. I’m just excited to get in, roll my sleeves up and be there every day.”
SIDENOTE
For the first time since 2019, Crier, the school newspaper, was recognized as a Crown Finalist by Columbia Scholastic Press Association for its Crown Awards. Student publications are selected based on overall excellence. Final results are set to be announced in March, where all finalists will be awarded a Gold Crown or a Silver Crown. A virtual award ceremony will be held in lieu of an in-person convention due to covid. “I was so happy I was jumping up and down,” Ms. Sarah-Anne Lanman, publications adviser, said. “It’s a tangible thing you could hold and say, ‘We did a good job,’ especially during such a hard year.”
PHOTO BY ANTHONY YOUNG
NO TEARS HERE Henry Hofferth, senior, and Reena Alsakaji, junior, work on graphic for this issue of Crier.
Upcoming events in clubs
ISSMA
ISSMA solo and ensemble competitions will be held at MHS Feb. 5.
Theatre
Theater is going to the Thespian State Conference today.
Scioly
Science Olympiad had a virtual competition Jan. 15 and will have their first in-person tournament tomorrow at Notre Dame.
Debate
Debate has their district competition today and tomorrow and their state competition Jan. 28 and 29.
JOSEPHINE MITTELBERGER
PHOTO SUBMITTED BY MR. BRET HELLER
MAN FOR THE JOB Starting his new position as superintendent July 1, Mr. Bret Heller looks forward to forming bonds with community members.
This past July, the school board cooperated with BWP & Associates, a search firm, to find a candidate eligible to replace the retiring Dr. Hendrix. After seven years of working with the school board as superintendent, Dr. Hendrix will retire this year. “Our district eight years ago was in financial tragedy,” Dr. Ingrid SchwarzWolf, school board president, said. “And he (Mr. Hendrix) was willing to take on our school district with an immense amount of debt, low morale and angry citizens, and he saved our district. He put a lot of time and energy into getting our district back on track.”
business manager As of now two important bills in the hands of elected representatives are at a halt, House Bill 1182 and House Bill 1134. HB 1182 states that, if passed, each school board candidate would have to announce their affiliation with a political party. Mr. John Doherty, School Board member, and School Board attorney, Ms. Angela Jones testified in Indianapolis that bringing politics into children’s education is inappropriate. Additionally, HB 1134 would force teachers to post certain lesson plans to the school’s website and allow parents to opt students out of certain lesson plans—causing teachers to create new lessons. Despite the pause, because aspects of an old bill can still be inserted into a new bill, therefore still affecting the public. “The important thing to remember is that we’re there to serve children,” Mr. Doherty said. “None of the children in the School Town of Munster are Democrats, Republicans or independent, and it’s been the philosophy of our current board that we leave our political affiliation at the door when we meet.”
PHOTO BY ANNA EVILSIZOR
ALL OR NOTHING Ethan Loredo, sophomore and Stephen Glombicki, freshman, practice for Science Olympiad.
Corrections
On page 4, Mahanoy Area High School student Brandi Levy was only suspended from the cheer team. On page 10, Peter Moreno’s name was misspelled, and the Boys’ Basketball caption should finish by stating, “...since we are considered little.” Also on page 10, the 2nd sentence of “Hockey takes on new challenges,” should read “One of these changes being practices immediately starting with drills.” On page 11, the photo of Lucy MacDonald was submitted by Lucy MacDonald. Crier regrets these errors.
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O P INIO N
CARTOON BY KRISTEN BAURAIN
By now it is painfully obvious to point out —2020 showed us how quickly our world can be transformed, whether we’re ready for it or not. Before that, though, all of us experienced the passage of time. The onslaught of recent events made us distinctly aware, but 10 years ago many of us were still in elementary school, imagining a future of flying cars or careers as astronauts. Now, with the same playgrounds we used to frequent replaced by the hotels and restaurants of Centennial Village, imagining another 10 years of change for our town and school can seem impossible. Despite this, now is the perfect time to ensure each person has a say in what the future could look like. As Munster continues to rebuild along with the rest of the world—and STM welcomes a new superintendent into its
HENRY HOFFERTH
Visual Editor When I see men act overly macho, interrupt others, over-explain things and disrespect women, all I can do is feel bad for them. They are likely struggling with their self-esteem and self image so they overcompensate by lashing out. Men like this can change; they just need to recognize how their actions affect others.
CRIER
ranks—now is our chance to proactively create a vision of our future. Through surveys, interviews and personal experience, Crier compiled areas of interest that we would like to see improved in Munster by 2032.
Bridging the gap between administration and students
In a Crier survey of 45 students, one of the most mentioned hopes for MHS’s future was increased administration interaction and transparency. Whether through polls, open forums or more meetings with Student Government, MHS needs more opportunities for both student and teacher voices to be heard.
Creating safe spaces
This communication extends beyond having a say in public policy—students often do not feel comfortable reaching out regarding issues of bullying, sexual assault or racial discrimination in fear of their concerns falling on deaf ears. Mustang Mental Health, Black Culture Club and programs like the Stop It app are a step in the right direction toward creating a safe environment, but more cooperative effort between administration and students is needed to accommodate a student body increasingly diverse in backgrounds and experiences.
Boys in America grow up learning that emotions are for weak men; strong men, on the other hand, push down their emotions and “suck it up.” This results in a society that fosters toxic behavior, the phrase “boys will be boys” often used as an excuse for men’s toxic behaivor. Toxic masculinity is harmful for men, and it may account for higher incarceration rates, overdose rates and suicide rates compared to women. According to the American Psychological Association men commit 90% of homicides, they are 3.5 times more likely to die by suicide than women and their life expectancy is 4.9 years shorter. Men often internalize their problems instead of facing them, only contributing to their toxic behavior and mental health issues. Though toxic masculinity can be on a
Crier, Munster High School’s official student newspaper, may be reached via mail at 8808 Columbia Ave, Munster, IN 46321; via phone at 219-836-3200, ext. 3443; or via fax at 219-836-3202. Crier is published through the Honors Newspaper Advanced Writing and Editing classes and extra-curricular involvement. Crier’s official website is accessible at www.mhsnews.net. •The newspaper serves as a public forum and two-way communication for the school and community. •Crier is a source of information, entertainment, advertising and opinion for the student body, faculty, administration and community •Published material will stress objective reporting except on the editorial page where opinion writing will be featured. All published material will stress accuracy, integrity, honesty, responsibility, objectivity, fairness and independence. Corrections, when necessary, will be published on page 2. •Opinions expressed in the newspaper do not necessarily reflect those of the School Town of Munster, faculty or administration.
Upgrading the town while maintaining its charm
Building a better Munster
Throughout our interviews, every student mentioned construction around Centennial Village, whether positive or negative. Having spaces for future generations to spend luxury time is important for the advancement of the town, but this comes at the expense of nostalgic spaces and freedom to roam.
Maintaining a proactive environment
•Letters to the editor and reader suggestions are welcomed, but should be limited to 250 words. All letters must be signed and should be either emailed to the editor (tahlee20@gmail. com), given directly to any staff member or delivered to the Publications room, N155, one week prior to publication. Letters must not contain personal attacks against an individual. Editors reserve the right to edit for length, clarity, and grammatical errors. Crier will accept letters from anyone, provided that the content pertains to school or school issues. Feedback may also be submitted on Twitter @munstermedia. •Mailed subscriptions cost $25 per year. Digital issues can be found on issuu.com. Crier is published 11 times a school year. Ad rates and policies are available to anyone upon request.
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I think that Munster would be more populated and I hope they start putting cross walks. I would love for Calumet Avenue to be safer.
“ ” “ — LUNA GUTIERREZ FRESHMEN
By 2032, we need a MHS that is willing to rethink how we view the future—not as a preplanned spreadsheet to sacrifice the present, but an opportunity to work towards. Many students do not only have a 10 year plan for exactly what prestigious career they (or their parents) want them to pursue, but a plan for their whole life. Frequently, you will hear graduates say that while MHS gave them opportunities to succeed, everything was a competition and they didn’t realize how damaging the environment was until they left. Our wellbeing and chance to discover ourselves now is no less important than the happiness we think we’ll have in the future.
smaller scale, it is still destructive. For example, when boys in class make loud jokes, bother others and generally disrupt, they do so in a desperate attempt to make themselves the center of attention. This behavior is not inherently evil or hateful, it comes from a place of frustration. Frustration can develop at home, socially, academically or a multitude of other reasons. It is supressed because their whole life they were told to “be a man.” Sadly, women are hurt by the toxic behavior of men. It can range from catcalling to sexual assault, this behavior needs to stop. I can never understand what it feels like to be a woman, but what I can do is be an ally, inform myself and stop other men from being toxic. Many often hear of toxic masculinity
Frequent responses in Crier’s survey of 45 students about their hopes for the future of MHS and beyond
I hope the town can focus less on standardized testing and more on truly enriching students. — DELANEY CRAIG SOPHOMORE
More buildings, worse traffic (especially at the schools).
— DESTINY MUCZYNSKI JUNIOR
In 10 years I think Munster will be the same; however, I think it will become even more diverse.
— AMAYA DANDRIDGE SENIOR
and immediately get defensive saying things like “What’s wrong with being manly?” This immediate response is understandable because they have a skewed perspective from societal indoctrination and misguided parenting. I also have toxic behaviors, like being a bad listener. But I recognize it and I make a concerted effort to improve it, I encourage all men to do the same. Toxic behaviors of men will not be solved by women alone; it can only be solved if men recognize their shortcomings. Fathers need to teach their sons what it really means to be a man: respecting women, being emotionally available, standing up for those in need and admitting their mistakes and learning from them. The definition for “manly” needs to change.
Photography Schedulers, Trainers & Equipment Managers Anthony Young, EJ Boersma Visual Editor Henry Hofferth Story Editor Reena Alsakaji Photography Expert & Source Manager Anna Evilsizor Business Manager Josephine Mittelberger Design Chief Alexis Perez
Our Staff
Page Editors Lauren Hoogeveen, Sofia Sanchez
Editor-in-Chief Atarah Israel
Cartoonist & Photographer Kristen Baurain
Deadline Manager Alison Lee
Adviser Ms. Sarah-Anne Lanman
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Streaming season
R E V IE W
munster high school crier
With new seasons of hit shows releasing, Crier reviews three favorites ATARAH ISRAEL & SOFIA SANCHEZ editor-in-chief and page editor
“Bridgerton”
The idea of regency romance is nothing new—girls vying for the attention of young, rich male suitors, set in a society of elites. Scandal ensues, of course. My initial attraction to “Bridgerton” was spurred by my love for books like “Pride and Prejudice” or “The Selection”—there is an indescribable, timeless charisma that stories of historical romance possess. Despite this, I admit that Netflix’s take on this trope was, at times, a bit disappointing to watch. It is easy to get lost in the regal aesthetic of the show; just the hype surrounding the release of its first season was enough for my initial
obsession. The end of the first season however, left me feeling empty and unaccomplished. “Bridgerton” is definitely binge-worthy, but lacks the depth of the books that I love—including tropes of marriage and secrecy felt like an emulation of historical romance, rather than a genuine depiction of it. The show compensates for shallowness as much as its characters do, distracting viewers with flashy parties, romance tropes and an attempt at diversity.
“Demon Slayer”
ILUSTRATIONS BY KRISTEN BAURAIN
Whether tuning in from Netflix or Hulu, viewers of “Demon Slayer,” will never forget the dramatic depiction of Tanjiro’s family ravished by demons contrasting his previous life of pastoral peace. From this moment, the main character’s trajectory is changed to one of swordsmanship and battle. “Demon Slayer” has a plotline similar to most shounen anime. Nevertheless, the storytelling within the show is phenomenal and never boring. The period in which the show is set, Japan’s Tashio period, adds to the overall aesthetic to the film. Each character introduced has an engaging backstory and readers are even able to sympathize with most villains. However, the pattern of a demon with a tragic background story is predictable, and at-times depicts Tanjiro as a two-dimensional morally righ-
“Euphoria”
Garnering immense anticipation for its newest season, “Euphoria” follows a group of high schoolers dealing with substance abuse, mental health, sexual identities and relationships. The HBO Max show is narrated by the main character, Rue, while episodes shine a spotlight on a single
teous character who is able to forgive all. The show is brought down to four stars due to its struggle to depict female characters. Their physical appearance remains to be revealing and demeaning—many were shocked when Nezuko, a fourteen year old, was depicted as more physically mature in her demon form. This change was completely unnecessary and added nothing to her character. Subordinate roles are not uncommon for the women and girls of “Demon Slayer”—also in the Entertainment District arch is Tengen Uzai, a perfect embodiment of the “macho male” archetype. The inclusion of the relationship can come off as unnecessary fanservice and takes away from the plot. Overall, “Demon Slayer” should still attract attention for its engaging storyline and powerful visuals.
character. “Euphoria” builds character development at full force as the high schoolers face a multitude of issues relevant to today’s teenagers. I felt that one character should be further elaborated on: McKay, a recent graduate and star football player. While McKay represents parental and societal pressures, his character felt sidelined. Overall, “Euphoria” does a phenomenal job of creating complex characters with multiple layers. In the cinematography area, impressive visuals do the storyline justice. The aesthetic, camerawork, lighting and music choice come together to fully immerse the audience in the show. The dim, yet glittering visuals establish an ominous atmosphere fitting for the dark-
er mood and topics “Euphoria” tackles. However, the amount of nudity and sexual scenes are oftentimes overly excessive for a show that is centered around minors. Many have overlooked this fault due to the ages of the cast being over 18. The raw and direct portrayal of taboo themes is perhaps what draws viewers in. The audience is brought on a ferris wheel of emotions with extreme highs and lows in the plot. Watching is completely enthralling—it’s easy to finish an episode, and another and eventually finish the entire season unknowingly. With its coverage of serious topics and ability to mesmerize audiences, “Euphoria” presents a heart-wrenching journey that differentiates itself from the typical high school TV series.
Recommendations based on the top streaming shows Crier reviewed
“Euphoria” watch... “Grand Army” Where to watch: Netflix
“Demon Slayer” watch... “Attack on Titan” Where to watch: Netflix, Hulu, Funimation
“Bridgerton” watch... “The Crown” Where to watch: Netflix
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INF O C US
Taking part in selfcompassion exercises calms the heart rate, switching off the body’s threat response. Source: Universities of Exeter and Oxford
SELF CARE For Emma Starkey, freshman, learning to give oneself time is just as important as being kind to others. “(Self-care) is just genuinely making things seem better,” Emma said.
A KIND DEED Even the smallest things count as acts of kindness, according to Julie Alvarez, junior. “People complimenting each other and telling someone to have a good day or good morning (are acts of kindness),” Julie said.
Highly anxious people who repeatedly do acts of kindness have a significant increase in positive moods.
Consistently kind people have 23% less cortisol and age slower than the average population.
Source: UBC Clinical Psychology PHOTOS BY EJ BOERSMA
KIND-HEARTED A mission of Joey Higgason’s, junior, is to be kind everyday. “Be open to everyone,” Joey said. “Do anything to make a person happy, help them out when they're in need.”
Source: Integrative Physiological and Behavioral Sciences
The kindness of one’s heart Students highlight everyday acts of kindness during winter gloom JOSEPHINE MITTELBERGER business manager
Throughout the season of chilly weather and covid-induced isolation, it is important to remember the small things one can do during the season. An act that is often overlooked and taken advantage of is kindness. Crier wants to feature a few who have shared acts of kindness they received.
Joey Higgason, junior
So happy that the weight of the world seems to rise off his shoulders, Joey Higgason, junior, feels his heart glow as he walks down the halls of MHS and waves to people he knows. Joey knows no act is more rewarding than greeting someone in the halls. “I believe it brightens up their day and makes them feel like they have a purpose in this world,” Joey said. “(That) is important to me because I just love seeing everyone happy. Whenever I greet someone, nothing
but happiness comes to their face, and their happiness powers mine.” Being a vocal advocate for spreading positivity, Joey loves seeing acts of kindness, recounting people high five, holding doors open for others and helping others when they’ve dropped something. Though Joey has always been optimistic, he recognizes that others find it difficult to be as happy. “I just want everybody to be happy,” he said. “Being nice can make you happy as individuals, (so) be open to everyone. Brighten a person’s day—it’s like lighting something up inside their heart and making them glow.”
Emma Starkey, freshman
Kindness does not end at altruism— Emma Starkey, freshman, learned this especially hard lesson while being stuck at home due to quarantine. With this new experience, they have learned to be nicer to themself by having more time to relax. “I can’t go into a state of being stuck
in an alternate reality of the internet, but I also can’t be constantly shoved with schoolwork,” Emma said. “It needs to be on and off (with) enough time to be functioning. I also need some time off to cool down and move onto the next thing.” While Emma does recognize the importance of self care, they do not let kindness go unnoticed. Recently, Emma had a short film project that was done close to the deadline. They had to record their film in a short period of time and, in turn, had a harder time working around everyone’s schedule. “Given the circumstances the actors and the team working on it were extremely supportive,” Emma said. “Even if they ended up not being able to work on it, they were still genuinely nice about it and really apologetic—it was really sweet.”
Julie Alvarez, junior
Being isolated for months on end and struggling to keep up with self care is
a common theme among students. Not having regular social interaction damaged many students’ mental health, something Julie Alvarez, junior, also experienced. Luckily, coming back to school helped balance her life and she can appreciate the hospitality in simple questions like “How was your day?” “Kindness from others has made me a happier person,” Julie said. “And others put effort and (take) time out of their day to do something kind to make someone else feel better about themselves.” Despite being better off than she was before a return to in-person, Julie still has her struggles with mental health. To help her when she is anxious during school, Julie tries to take care of herself by taking breaks and drawing doodles in her notes to shift her attention. “Even being kind to myself is such an amazing thing that can definitely help mental health,” she said. “It helped me be more confident.”
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ith covid cases rising after the start of the new year, many students have returned to home fitness. For those who own exercise equipment, like Sam Foreit, senior, it was an easier transition from the bustling gyms that athletes knew so well. Along with bodyweight workouts such as squats, pushups, sit-ups and any of their variations, Foreit also uses the equipment he owns, such as dumbbells and resistance bands. “There is more available (equipment) for me at the gym, but working out at home is more comfortable and private,” Foreit said. “They both have their pros and cons.” Starting her exercise routine last summer, Addison Dzurovcik, sophomore, found many benefits of working out at home. She felt more focused on herself, less intimidated in comparison to the gym and that there was a more relaxed environment. “I like being able to focus on myself (at home) but sometimes I lose motivation,” Dzurovcik said. “I remind myself to keep going, remember my goals and work on my mental toughness.” For Sydney Frantal, junior, exercising and participating in sports is nothing new. From 8th grade to sophomore year, she started working on specific muscle groups, did a session of powerlifting and had a personal trainer. Sydney slowly started to integrate what she learned from her experiences into the workouts and exercises she maintains today. “I think that working out gives me a different look on life,” Frantal said. “I am more grateful for what I have, and I love making my body and mindset stronger.”
Behind the scenes of the athletics office Meet the people who make sports happen KRISTEN BAURAIN
Olimpia Tienstra Years at MHS: 5
in the dining room Students explain their at-home exercise routines and tips to create your own Practice makes perfect
Sam Foreit, senior, demonstrates common exercises
2 Pushups
Keep your core tight (think of it as pulling your belly button in)
Keep your back straight
3 Squats Keep your shoulders relaxed and elbows to your side Keep your chest up to prevent stress on your back and spine
Start out slow
“If you begin with long, strenuous workouts, you may injure yourself and then cannot work out at all! It is best to begin with 10 minutes at first, then slowly increase exercise time each week until you are working out for 30 to 40 minutes. At that point, increasing the intensity level will be the next step.” “Usually, people do not have a lot of exercise equipment at home, so I suggest a combination of body weight exercises, exercise bands with handles on each end, and a floor mat.”
Muscle group
“Generally, a full-body workout is the best way to begin. You want to utilize your major muscle groups, which include chest, back, shoulders, legs, abdominals and low back.” “It is important to challenge yourself enough in order to gain the benefits of your exercise. There are a lot of short, beginner workouts online to start with. Find a video that you like and repeat the video for a couple of weeks. Then look for longer workout videos to increase workout time. Following someone on a screen allows you to get good form and do the exercises correctly.”
Exercise Suggestions Legs should be shoulder-length apart PHOTOS BY ANTHONY YOUNG
would argue, is impossible without those who work in the background— the MHS athletics staff. Athletics handles all the paperwork, staffing, finance, and communication it takes to get Mustangs competing. “People think they come to the game and it just happens,” Mr. Ira Zimmer, Athletics Director, said. “But there’s a lot more behind the scenes that people don’t understand. It’s all very fulfilling.” A lot has to happen before players step foot on the field, court or track. Take the upcoming Boys’ Varsity basketball game against Griffith, for instance. Mrs. Tienstra, Athletics Secretary, ensures players have the nec-
Ira Zimmer Years at MHS: 5
Five tips and tricks for exercising at home from Ms. Karen Schutters, personal trainer and co-owner of Priority Fitness
Be consistent
1 Bicep curls Legs should be hip-width apart
Getting started
No equipment?
essary fees and forms, juggling phone calls and emails from parents along the way. Everyone communicates with coaches and Griffith’s athletic office, coordinating schedules and fundraisers. Since the upcoming game is home, Athletics gathers referees, concessions staff and ticket takers. And when players get hurt mid-game or during practice, trainer Steve Young is there to help them get back on their feet. “I help athletes in providing for their whole health and wellbeing, and just being someone they feel comfortable coming to that they can trust, ” Mr. Young, known to most athletes as “Steve,” said. “I love seeing people be able to reach a level that they didn’t
Athletic Assistant Principal
Athletic Administrative Assistant
photographer High school sports: the grit of the athlete, the commitment of parents and coaches, the enthusiasm of fans, the heart of that classic American High School experience. All of it, many
DUMBBELLS
Beth Raspopovich Years at MHS: 25
“For chest, you could do pushups. For back muscles, you could attach a band to a door and do rows. For shoulders, a band shoulder press would work. Floor crunches and back extentions would work abs and low back.”
think was possible.” High school sports require enormous effort. However, Athletics believes the long hours they put in are more than worth it. Each staff member is an avid believer in the potential sports have to shape and enrich lives, serving the Munster community to give students a valuable experience. “High school sports are a microcosm of life,” Ms. Beth Raspopovich, Assistant Athletics Director, said. “I think there’s so many life lessons that you can get from sports that you can carry with you. [...] Everyone in this office just has a great heart for giving, and trying to provide the best opportunity and experience we can for our student athletes.”
Steven Young Years at MHS: 3
Zachary Slosser Years at MHS: 5
Athletic Administrative Assistant
LAUREN HOOGEVEEN
munster high school crier
Athletic Trainer
S P O RTS
Athletic director
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PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY ANNA EVILSIZOR
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munster high school crier
Staying in check
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Working more as a team and individually, Boys’ Basketball wins latest games LEXI PEREZ
design chief
On Jan. 7, Munster went against Kankakee Valley and made the final free throw shot 5857. According to Peter Moreno, senior, going up against Kankakee Valley was one of their hardest Conference games so far. Boys’ Basketball has a record of 10-2 with a four game winning streak. L a s t week, the boys won two of their most recent g a m e s against Highland 75-30 and Merrillville 65-36. “Coach (Michael Hackett, health teacher,) always wants us to have the attitude that anyone can have an off game,” Moreno said. “So we made sure that we were on top of everything.” Coach Hackett has the boys watch opposing teams tapes before going up against them. They previously had to watch tapes for their conference game against Merrillville Jan. 15. While watching the tapes, the coaches break down each play and see what they could do
Munster vs. Hobart Conference at Hobart tomorrow at 7 p.m.
to either prevent a certain play from happening during a game or a certain player. “It helps us because we get to see what they run, what their favorite plays are and who their best players are,” Yaw Awuah, junior, said. “So we make a plan for those people.” This team is young compared to last year’s varsity team, which had nine seniors. This year the team only has two seniors, along with four juniors and the rest of the players are sophomores. According to Moreno, the younger classmen are hard-working and compensate for being a young team by pushing themselves at practice and staying focused among the older boys. “Since we’re all not seniors we will be together next year and it will be even better next year because we know each other more and who can do best in certain plays,” Awuah said. “I feel like we’ll be more mature.” The team also focuses on improving more on skills not just as a team but individually as well. “I feel like we can improve as a team,” Sean Kimble, senior, said. “We’re going to get better throughout the season but right now I think we’ve got a pretty good stand point.”
PHOTO BY ANTHONY YOUNG
REACH FOR THE SKY Driving in for a layup in a winning game against Highland at MHS, Sean Kimble, senior, throws the ball. “My goal is to win Conference and Sectionals,” Kimble said. “Hopefully we will finish the season strong and go further than past years.”
Diving team prepares for Conference ALISON LEE
deadline manager
Walking to the edge of the diving board, Sophia Brunetti, Girls’ Diving captain and senior, takes a deep breath and jumps, plunging into the deep water. “Diving makes me feel alive,” Brunetti said. “It’s very special to me, there is something about being in the air that lets all my worries fall away for a few moments.” Diving spends each practice honing their dives, jumping into the water around thirty times per practice. Now, they PHOTO BY KRISTEN BAURAIN can put their practice to action DIVING IN Plummeting headfirst into the icy pool, Sonny Hoekstra, at Conference tomorrow. junior, leaps off the diving board during practice. The diving team has “We’ve got a list of dives that been training for conference, where they hope to place in the top five.
Wrestling prepares for post season ATARAH ISRAEL editor-in-chief
Entering the mat during the Lake Central Tournament, Gabriel Tienstra, wrestling captain and senior, had a difficult problem to solve. Grappling with a hand injury, he still managed to win his finals match by adjusting his technique in real time. “It was tough to adjust from having two hands to one,” Tienstra said. “I had to switch my wrestling style within an hour to
be ready for my next match that day.” Christopher Bohn, sophomore, also placed first in the Lake County Tournament Jan. 8, having a season record of 26-0. Looking forward, the team prepares for post season, with IHSAA Sectionals Jan. 29. “The wrestling season has gone really well and we’ve seen so much improvement,” Tienstra said. “We’ve been working hard everyday and putting in the time and effort in the wrestling room, and it’s seen in our meets and tournaments.”
we need to perform, and so on a day to day basis, we hit each one of them about four times,” Diving Coach Michael Chelich, community member, said. “We’re trying to perfect them for the weaknesses and trying to strengthen those types of (dives).” Conference requires divers to perform 11 dives—a number much more daunting than the usual six. Performing 11 dives requires lots of practice and concentration. Each time divers step up the diving board, the audience must be silent so they can concentrate. “I’m always nervous before any competition,” Declan Taylor, sophomore, said. “But I try to just make it fun. Last year was
very nerve-wracking. But this year is my second year doing it. So it’s a lot easier. Listening to music, maybe coloring, that really helps with the nerves before (swim) meets.” The team hopes to place in the top five at Conference. If students are still interested in joining, contact Swimming Coach Tina Schmidt-McNulty, community member, at tschmidt-mcnulty@munster.us. “If you are looking for something new and exciting, a little more rush in your day, or just learning new skills and tricks while getting that feeling of improvement, then you should definitely check out diving,” Sonny Hoekstra, Boys’ Diving captain and junior, said.
Dance attends upcoming invitationals REENA ALSAKAJI
story editor With competition season kicking off Dec. 18, Dance has been rigorous in their preparation. The most recent competition was Jan. 8 at Crown Point, the girls placing first in pom and second in jazz. The team faces their Munster Invite tomorrow, which is at 9 a.m., open to students. “We wanted to really step it up this year, and I think our scores say that we have,” Cali Petersen, co-captain and senior, said. “Team-wise, I want to place top five at nationals in jazz and pom.”
PHOTO BY ANTHONY YOUNG
JUMPING IN SYNC Peyton Collier, senior and Kayla Bell, sophomore, do a front leap during halftime performance. “Since this is my last year dancing, I want to make it count,” Collier said.
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you see yourself in 10 years? For Crier’s second installment of This is Munster, students discuss goals, hopes and fears for the future ATARAH ISRAEL AND ALISON LEE editor-in-chief and deadline manager
or Habiba Ouyuon, senior, knowing what she wants to do in the future is less of a precise image, and more of a gut feeling. Leaving Munster to live in Texas and working in the dental hygiene field are all a part of her desire to reach beyond the life she is currently living. “I want to help people out, and I like biology and anatomy,” Habiba said. “But I don’t want to support a (medical industry) where people who need actual help will die without medical care if they can’t pay for it. It doesn’t feel right to me to make money that way.” Whether freshman, senior or in between for many students the stress of imagining themselves beyond high school is challenging enough, let alone their future in ten years time. For Lita Cleary, junior, her dreams of travel are jeopardized by fears of remaining restrictions from covid, or similar pandemics in the future. As Generation Z inherits a world reel-
BACKTALK
Tomorrow is answer your cat’s question day. If your pet could say one thing to you, what do you think it would say and why?
“Why do you yell at me whenever I chew on my pillows?” — Tina Tsataros freshman
“They would ask why I sing and dance so horribly in my room when no one is watching.” — Addison Ellis freshman
“With everything so uncertain, especially now, I’m excited to see where it takes me.” — CHARLIE MASON SENIOR
ing from natural disasters and crises, students are left fearful for what the future could look like. “The future of the world does not look good, in my opinion,” Lita said. “I think the generation before us messed it up, and they’re putting so much pressure on our generation to fix it. They have such high expectations that I don’t think it’s possible to reach it. Of course, there are some ideas of people cleaning the ocean and beaches, and that’s all great, but that’s only one small step we can do.” Despite the uncertainty of the future, students like Charlie Mason, senior, do not allow its unpredictability to prevent their aspirations. “I’ve got a big plan,” he said. “I hope to be a lawyer by (10 years time). I also want
to have been elected to the House of Representatives.” Even with goals to become a lawyer and congressmen, Charlie also accepts the precarious nature of the future as a fact of life. The unexpected, he says, is not just inevitable, but a positive aspect of growing. “I think it’s safe to say that everything I just said is very likely to not happen, which I think is a good thing,” he said. “Not deciding my entire life before I’ve lived it. With everything so uncertain, especially now, I’m excited to see where it takes me. If there are any other unexpected events in the unforeseen future, I hope they aren’t terrible like the one we’re stuck in now, but I think it’d be nice to end up in a different place than I expected to be in.”
No time to lose Guest column by
CHRISTIAN “SCHOOPIE” SCHOOP
10 years is a really long time, almost too long to imagine—but eventually, you have to think about it. The future is coming, and you are the one who decides it. But, sometimes nothing goes as planned. Truth be told, the future changes. See past me from 10 years ago: I wanted to be a firefighter, helping the community, even though I would only be in high school. As I got older, anxiety took over and I got scared, realizing people risked their lives for that stuff, and I’m not sure that would be the best option for
“My dog would probably tell me to be quiet. I have no reason.” — Elisabeth Krieg sophomore
“I feel like he would just tell me he wants food, he likes food.” — Riley Mach sophomore
“My dogs would “Why do you probably yell at me keep me in this to let them out.” container, I want to be in a tree.” — Ty Pappas —Casey Knor junior junior PHOTOS BY ANTHONY YOUNG, EJ BOERSMA, HENRY HOFFERTH AND ATARAH ISRAEL
FABRIC THAT BINDS Seniors Abraham Blaesing, s Ouyuon, Charlie Mason; juniors Olivia Evilsizor, Lita Cleary, and senior Alyssa Sangueza pose for a photo.
me. In 10 years you will laugh about what you did as high schoolers, or you will think about ways you could have changed the outcome. If anything, be what you want to be. The future is a book, you are the author. Sometimes you have to take chances and stand up, tell your story, say what you want to be. To the countless amounts of people who ask me if I want to be the owner of Schoop’s when I grow up: I really don’t. Schoop’s doesn’t get me the position of tech, and there isn’t really much tech to work there. Since the moment I met my best friend, we have grown to like the things each other liked. I like 3D printing, and he likes phones. He has a 3D printer and I have an old European rotary phone sitting on my desk. Sometimes I question, why is it all going away? I’ve read numerous articles how Verizon is disabling their 5ESS (Number 5 Electronic Switching System), one of the most efficient phone exchanges to be made. The Internet is taking over. People are starting to want faster speed, but, sometimes, the slow end is
better. They both have their ups and downs as pay goes, but picking up the phone is the same with both. It’s getting human interaction. AT&T has human operators, where Verizon has robots. And sometimes, you accidentally dial into Russian phone exchanges. It’s really fun. Phones have so much to learn about them—it didn’t just start off as a cell phone. Alexander Graham Bell tried to create a device to help the deaf, but made one that did the exact opposite. Phones are my passion. In 10 years I see myself working on phones, with a great company and creating a decent living, helping the community, and doing some stuff that others won’t do. If you are a student or faculty member and would like to be featured, in Crier’s special series
please contact Atarah Israel (9003945@student.munster.us) or Alison Lee (7003640@ student.munster.us).
“He would probably tell me that I need to fold my blankets after I get him out of bed — Marley in the morning.” Anderson — Nova Dillon senior senior
“It would probably ask me to stop talking to it because it doesn’t understand.”
“Mom, why can’t “My cat would I have unlimited tell me to stop treats and the insulting her.” back door open all the time?” —Ms. Valerie —Mr. Ben Boruff Pflum English teacher math teacher