MHS Crier | Issue 3 | 10.17.2024

mhs

Munster High School 8808 Columbia Ave. Munster, Indiana 46321 http://mhsnews.net

October 17, 2024 Volume 59 Issue 3

CRIER ELECTION IS IN NINETEEN DAYS.

Photo illustrations by Damien Salahieh Original photos attributed to Nikolas Liepins & Kathy Fang via Flickr

“It’s not enough to vote, you have to vote well.”

Examining perspectives and impact on the 2024 election Emily Dywan & Lexi Villalobos Editor-in-Chief & Deadline Manager

T

debate at home.

“There’s two ways to teach a government class. You can teach it from a vantage point of current events, or you can teach it from a vantage point of historical foundations,” Gordon said.

As for the other two thirds of the student population who are ineligible to vote, they are still granted the opportunity to simulate their participation in this year’s election. With over nine hundred student participants from the 2020 Biden vs. Trump mock election, media specialist Kelly Hladek extends the tradition by creating another mock election for the 2024 year. By sending out weekly information of individual parties and candidates, she expresses the value of educating your political identity in order to define it.

ime ticks down as each day passes by, coming closer to the 60th annual election on Nov. 5 between Former President Donald Trump (Republican Party) and Vice-President Kamala Harris (Democratic Party). As for the candidates running-mates, Senator JD Vance was chosen by Trump while Governor Tim Walz was chosen by Harris.

Most of the senior class of 2025 are eligible to vote for the election for the first time. That includes about a third of social studies teacher Michael Gordon’s government classes. When planning out what to teach for the year, there are certain things that are in a different order when an election comes. Before the presidential debate on Sept. 10, his students had a day of discussion on the qualifications and powers of the presi- Continued on page 4 with dency in order to prepare to watch the more election content

Casting your vote Plan to Results from a Crier survey about the 2024 election and voting

vote

88% of students 10% of students

2% of students Source: e-mail survey of 145 students from Sept. 26

Not voting

Not 18

02 NEWS

Thursday, Oct. 17, 2024 BEHIND THE LINES Holding different sauces, lunch staffers pose with the new chicken wings added to the Create line. This year the lunch room has introduced a new high-protein lunch option for students and staff. (Photo

by Evelyn Koncalovic) TRACK YOUR EFFORT Using new tablets in the weightroom, sophomore Elia Moore tracks her workout. These tablets have an app called TeamBuildr that tracks workouts and calculates the max weight of each student. “The new technology has made me see my progress a lot better,” Moore said. “Logging our lifts on the IPads pushes me to do more reps and go up in weight which motivates me to try and be the best I can be.” (Photo by Evelyn Koncalovic)

Food is fuel Students utilize new additions to the weight room and protein lunches Kylee Barnes Page Editor

Maintaining the Mustang Mentality Coach Riley Edgerton brought when he was hired last year, the weight room and the students that walk through its doors have only grown in strength. Along with an entirely new exercise tracking system, the athletic department and Munster’s dietary department, Chartwells, have been collaborating to ensure our students and athletes are wellfed, and walked.

With the addition of iPads linked to a new program, TeamBuildr, which tracks athletic progress, and a fluctuating lunch line aimed at promoting protein intake, the athletic and nutrition departments are pushing their

student athletes to be the best version of ress,” Edgerton said. “When people come themselves. and ask me why the weight room is import“At every rack we have an iPad. Our kids ant, I wanna be able to pull up a small data track their attendance, body weight and sheet and say this is why it’s important.” all of their metrics that we do in the Along with pushing student weight room,” Edgerton said. “We athletes to make healthier track all that so we can pull up data I wanna be able dietary choices, Chartwells on any student athlete, look back at to pull up a small has been focusing on pushhistory, and tell them why they’re data sheet and ing high protein options in say, this is why it’s fatiguing or why they’re making so the second lunch line. Acimportant.” much progress.” cording to Chartwells dietiWith the ability to track their own Riley Edgerton tian Erin West, the third-parphysical eduction teacher progress, students are beginning to ty company is focused on realize the connection between taking care providing athletes with the opportunity to of themselves not only mentally and physifuel themselves before their big games. cally, but nutritionally.

“My job is to do the menus. We are un“At some point, your body has to have the der the National School Lunch and School fuel, nutrients and energy to make progBreakfast Program, meaning we have to

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follow specific guidelines when it comes to menu-ing food. I go based off of what I hear in the lunchroom. My staff also gives me ideas, and then I work it into the menu to see if it’s feasible,” West said.

Besides working harder to educate students about dietary decisions, West has been the brains behind our lunch menu, with influence and feedback from teachers and students alike.

“With ‘fueling the mustangs,’ I based it off of a nutrition education I did over the summer with our football team. We always talk about high protein with our athletes, but carbohydrates are also very important.

So that’s what I wanted to focus on with doing a pasta bar and stuff like that,” West said.

Open to the masses LaFlech’s small business operations class opens Horseshoe

Gabby Van Horne Beat Manager

For Kristin LaFlech’s small business operations class project this year, a few students have taken on the Horseshoe for their project. The Horseshoe is a student-run organization that has Munster merchandise such as hoodies, blankets, and jackets. The class is working on expanding their business knowledge through running their own small business.

“The Horseshoe is a student-run store,” senior Alexis Karahalios said.

“Right now we just have some of our older clothing that was in here, but we’re trying to get a lot more new stuff

in here.”

Small business operations is a new class this year which in the future will be built up from previous entrepreneurship classes that have formulated their ideas in the years before, then the execution will occur during their senior year.

“Our plan is to reopen again Thursday, and then we’re going to work from there,” Karahalios said. “There’ll usually be somebody here during lunches, and then we’re maybe going to try for tutorials, but we’ll see how that goes.”

The store hadn’t been in use for a long period of time, so LaFlech contacted principal Morgan Nolan about having the students open and run it for

the class this year.

“It’s a pretty small space, but we’re trying to maximize it for what it is and use what we have,” Karahalios said.

“We’d love to bring more people into it eventually, but it’s a little hard to start with a bunch of people and narrow it down.”

LaFlech wants the to have a space that if they make mistakes they’re able to use them as opportunities compared to roadblocks.

“You guys have amazing ideas, and you know what needs to happen,” LaFlech said. “The sad thing is that sometimes adults don’t want to listen to you, and I want that voice for those students.”

At a glance Preach to the Choir

WE’RE AN HONOR Posing for a photo, freshman Olivia Mack and juniors Ben Coble, William Keegan, Jovi Savaglio and Raghuram Subramanian smile together. (Photo

by John Kullerstrand)

As part of the 2024 school year, the MHS Choir honors five students named to the Indiana All-State Honor’s Choir.

The five students, including freshman Olivia Mack and juniors Ben Coble, William Keegan, Jovi Savaglio and Raghuram Subramanian, will be performing in January at Fort Wayne among an ensemble of choir students across Indiana.

“I’m excited to perform challenging music with an extremely talented group of musicians,” Coble said. “One of my favorite things is participating in clinics or rehearsals with ‘guest educators’ and learning a different approach.”

STOP TO SHOP Purchasing merchandise after C lunch, junior Carson Poulston hands sophomore Raunav Perinchery his credit card.

“It is very nice to buy clothes at the Horseshoe,” said Poulston. “It is easy to access during lunch.” (Photo by Josephine Zangrilli)

Upcoming dates

Updates

•

All rooms that were under construction during the first quarter were finished as of Tues. Oct. 15. Classrooms left half finished from last year, N160, N162, N166, N167, and N168, will be under construction until the end of the semester. These classrooms will receive air units, among the rest of the planned, but still incomplete, changes.

•

Oct. 22 is PSAT day for grades nine through eleven. It will be digital, and will run through first to fourth hour. Make sure to check your email for your testing location. Senior Discovery Day is that same day, where seniors will have the option to focus on college preperation, career exploration or community service instead of coming to school. Those who do not will remain in the commons for the first four hours.

Oct. 24 will be e-learning due to parent-teacher conferences. The schedule for that week will all follow the traditional day bell schedule.

Corrections

In Issue 2 of Crier, On page 8, Ben Schirz took the Mighty Mustang photo. in the “Hold your horses” story, practice was at the batting cages and their senior performance was in 2023. Crier regrets these errors.

SPORTS

Thursday, Oct. 17, 2024

Setting up for success

03

Volleyball prepares for sectionals Oct. 19 to beat. They’re expected to win it all, but we’ll see.”

Beat Manager The team is 10-0 in conference games, As sophomore Karly Pala sets the ball for keeping them in first place in the Northwest senior Caitlyn Companik, the rest of the Crossroads Conference (NCC). Along with team cheer them on from the sidelines at the currently being in first place in the NCC, they team’s cancer awareness game against Por- are coming off of being conference and sectage on Oct. 2. tional champions in last year’s “Last night was our breast season, but also lost 9 seniors cancer awareness night, and I love the coaches and coming into this season. we gave those to people who players on the team. “Losing a lot of seniors had cancer or are currently I feel like they’re my was difficult because we had struggling with that,” senior family and we have lots to rebuild almost the entire of fun times together.” captain Lily Gena said. team, but I think we did well The team gave out mini pink Karly Pala through team bonding,” Comvolleyballs with handwritten Sophomore panik said. “I can definitely say messages to people currentthis is the ly struggling with and who have overcome most bonded team I’ve been on.” breast cancer. Now that the regular season The team will play Hammond Morton in has come to a close, the team is preparing the first round of sectionals on Oct. 19. for sectionals.

“Sectionals is important because it shows “We’ve been working on confidence and how our team has worked hard and deserves just figuring out who we are as a team and a win,” sophomore Karly Pala said. “It’s an working together,” Gena said. “This year is amazing feeling, but (it’s also important) begoing to be tough because we have Crown cause it’s my first year on varsity and I want Point in our sectional, and they’re the team to make an impact.”

Gabby Van Horne

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Fall sports recap

Find more online at MHSnews.net

A STRIKING SERVE In the air, senior Liliana Rivera serves the ball performing a jump serve. The girls volleyball team had their cancer awareness game on Oct. 2nd against Portage. The Mustangs won 3-0. “I try to keep myself as loose and calm as possible on the court, because I usually get in my head,” Rivera said. (Photo by Sophia Rodriguez)

Cross court comeback

Boys tennis finishes out their season Emily Dywan Editor-in-Chief

SPEED IT UP Ball in hand, junior Jose Lemus runs up the field to outrun his opponents. On Aug. 30th, the Mustangs had their first home game against Griffith High School. The final score was 0-49. “As a defender obviously the ball doesn’t come to me often, but when I get the chance, all I think is to run fast, hit someone, and don’t fumble,” Lemus said. (Photo by Sophia Rodriguez)

The boy’s tennis team finished their season 16-4, excluding playoffs, after losing their regional game on Oct. 8. New head tennis coach, John Morris, has led the battalion of the team towards their 44th sectional champion title in a row, being the 51st overall. Since having him for a full season, junior captain Jack Morton expresses his admiration for Morris.

“Coach Morris has been a coach for around 30 years and plays tennis on his own national tournaments, so he knows how important our competition is to us,” Morton said. “He’s hard on us when he needs to be hard on us.”

The team channels their spirit as senior Jose Foster advances to individuals for single matches. Foster has also qualified for the 2024 Boys’ All-State team, where he will play in Indianapolis among other skilled tennis players across Indiana. Foster levels with the competition and relays his methods of preparation for the “Knowing this is my last season, I want to make it far,” Foster said. “Of course we all want to win, but All-State is an experience where we all show out and just have fun.”

SWING AND A HIT Senior Aaryan Patel practices his backhand swings while warming up with his opponent at the sectionals match on Oct. 3. “As a senior, it felt motivating that I am a role model to the younger kids and I need to help lead the team.” (Photo by Ben Schirz)

Back of the net

Update on boys and girls soccer post season Emily Dywan & Gabby Van Horne Editor-in-Chief & Beat Manager

ONE FOOT FORWARD Competing in the Lake Central Rudy Skorupa invite, senior Carlos Wilson runs on Aug. 31. “Before races, I always get a little bit nervous because I know that the run is going to hurt, but as soon as the gun fires all those nerves go away,“ Wilson said. (Photo by Evelyn Koncalovik)

GETTING AHEAD Dribbling the ball, senior Lukis Raymond runs to advance the Mustangs chance to score a goal. The boys soccer team had their first sectional game on Oct. 9 and won 4-1. “We know that if we play together as a team we can go very far this post season,” Raymond said. (Photo by Sophia Rodriguez)

With both teams having cleared the conference table, the boys and girls soccer team began sectionals on Oct. 9 and 10. The boys won at home against Lake Central High School on Oct. 9 3-0 and advanced to the sectionals finals against Hammond Central on Oct. 12, beating them with a final score of 4-1.

“It’s a great feeling that I shared with my

teammates,” senior captain Niki Dimitrijevic said. “It’s a long lasting rivalry that is so sweet to win.”

The girls team played and won against Hammond Morton on Oct. 10, advancing to finals against Crown Point on Oct. 12. The girls fell short against Crown Point 0-2, closing off the 2024 season.

“It was hard to end knowing I won’t have another high school season,” senior captain Ila Iverson said. “It was also very fufilling knowing we left everything out there on the field.”

04 INFOCUS “It’s not enough to vote, you have to vote well.”

Continued from front

“Lots of people vote by party, but it’s also imcinct Organization Betsy Mellon extends her passion portant to vote according to the candidate that you for young generations to join the scene of voting by feel best represents your values and who character reaching out to your candidates individually. you’re most in alignment with,” Hladek said. “Voting “I’ve never met a candidate who isn’t eager to reblindly can be precarious, so learning who you’re spond to a voter,” Mellon said. “Regardless of what voting for will equip you with the best insight to side of the aisle they’re on, they all have a strong civmake an educated decision.” ic pride. Each individual candidate has their contact Chairwoman of the Munster Democratic Precinct information on their profile, and they’re more than Organization Ginny Dickman-Lopez runs the Demowilling to talk to voters.” cratic side’s efforts that include connecting with the While educating yourself with online and news recandidates, checking that the polls are adequately sources is critical for a well-educated vote, newcomer staffed and helping toward a free and voters and nonvoters alike can turn fair election that runs smoothly. Dickto the classroom as an outlet of politman-Lopez advises the student body to ical literacy. Mellon defines how hisYou guys have look up the candidates on the ballot and tory shapes the foundation of which see who fits your own values. These val- a voice in this. politics stands on. ues can range from health care, educa- We all have a “Without understanding the histotion, jobs and even the economy. ry of our country, it can be easy to voice.”

“I really challenge people to look at lose track of why we do this—why what is your line in the sand? What is- Ginny Dickman-Lopez America is a republic and not a sues are important to you in your life Democratic Chairwoman straight democracy, why our Constiof Munster that really make a difference?” Dicktution is the way it is, and why we man-Lopez said. have to vote,” she said. “History helps us understand Not only is researching the candidates for the next how to not make the same mistakes we have in the United States President effective, it also goes for the past.” five candidates running for Munster High School’s Tragedy of the commons comes with the mindset school board. The website onyourballot.vote411.org believing that your vote doesn’t matter, Dickman-Logives a voter guide, helping in the research of the pez expresses, but the collective effort of voters is esfive candidates. Questions like “What are your top sential for change. priorities, if elected?” or “How would you define ed“I would encourage folks to get involved—we all ucational equity?” are asked, displaying the answers feel like we can’t make a difference, but I promise of each. you, you actually can,” Dickman-Lopez said. “You Chairwoman of the Munster Republican Preguys have a voice in this. We all have a voice.”

Thursday, Oct. 17, 2024

June 27, 2024 The presidential debate between Biden and Trump occurred in Georgia. This was the first time the two debated since 2020.

“

July 15-18, 2024 Milwaukee, Wisconsin hosted the Republican National Convention. The event formally selects the republican parties next nominee of the year.

(Image from Gage Skidmore via Wikimedia Commons)

August 19-22, 2024 Chicago, Illinois hosted the Democratic National Convention. The event formally selects the democratic parties next nominee of the year.

What shapes your political identity?

Result from Crier’s e-mail survey of 145 students from Sept. 26

39% 12% of students

Voted for social media. This was the leading option.

37% of students

Voted family’s political opinions

of students Voted news

October 1, 2024

7%

of students Voted independent research

4% of students Voted other

Cavin McNulty Guest Column

Vote I do not remember being this involved with during the last presidential election. for your politics As one of the presidents of the EnvironmenI definitely did not want to walk into climate taltheClub, messy subject of differing ideologies. Even

more so, bringing environmental issues to the political table will likely yield two vastly different viewpoints with no middle ground to take real action.

Yet, in this year alone, we have seen record-breaking temperatures, devastating hurricanes, and severe droughts. If this is what we

New York holds the Vice President debate between Tim Walz (Democratic) and JD Vance (Republican). The debate was described as “normal,” unlike previous Vice Presidential debates.

(Photos by Gage Skidmore and Peggy Flaganan via Wikimedia Commons)

see now, what will we see in the future? As global temperatures continue to rise and the climate continues to change, what disasters will strike us next? And what will we do to protect our cities, homes, and lives?

Fortunately, many of you have the ability to vote and make your voices heard. The 2024 presidential election is a tightly contested race based on various ideas and policies. However, we barely see much coverage on climate action and environmental policy.

Despite its minute presence in headlines and politics, it is a real issue that we must address. It is up to you to address it through

your vote.

Climate change and environmental importance to our futures cannot be matched.

As citizens, we have a lot of ways to make our voice heard in our government policy and action. Possibly one of the most influential elections is coming right around the corner and for the first time ever, many of us are able to make our voices heard.

Understanding that this issue should find a place on both sides of the political spectrum will allow you to vote on the candidate that will protect your future through climate action.

INFOCUS

Thursday, Oct. 17, 2024

November 3, 2020

05

The 59th presidential election between Donald Trump and Joe Biden occurred. Biden won with 306 electoral votes.

July 13, 2024 Speaking during the campaign rally at the Connoquenessing Township in Butler County, Pennsylvania, former president Donald Trump survived an assassination attempt.

GLOBAL CITIZEN Presenting to the Civics Club, Founder of DOC 200 Louise Chickie-Wolfe speaks about her selffound project as sophomore Charles Ramirez and junior Michael Illyas listen. DOC 200 Project inspires students to pursue various acts of kindness in their community day-to-day. (Photo by Damien Salahieh)

Electing for the future

Learning more about your local elections Kylee Barnes Page Editor

July 21, 2024 Joe Biden announced his withdrawal from this year’s election. Vice President Kamala Harris is then endorsed as his replacement. (Image from White House via Wikimedia Commons)

September 10, 2024 Former President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris met for their first presidential debate in Philadelphia.

With the election in mind, and millions of hard-working Americans heading to the polls to vote, it begs the question: How are you voting?

Primary election is critical to note as part of the voting process. According to research published under Diego Morales, Indiana’s secretary of state, Lake County averaged a whopping 17% turnout rate during the 2023 Primary election where voters select candidates from their parties to campaign for office.

These candidates are who registered voters elect into office during the general election on Nov. 5.

As someone who works as a campaign manager for local elections, Chairwoman of the Munster Republican Precinct Organization Betsy Mellon highlights the importance of changes among the community. As part of a carryover from the last election, debates about Ridge Road are of major importance to voters.

“Many residents brought the issue to the candidates about their confusion, and because of it, last year had a record-voter turnout,” Mellon said. “Your council takes this data into serious consideration and candidates have a strong resolve about their position of what their town will look like in 10 or 20 years.”

As part of the 2024 election year, Civics Club has been promoting ways to strengthen student’s freedom of speech. Louise Chickie-Wolfe, founder of the DOC

200 Project for Outstanding Citizenship, had came in on Oct. 7 to speak to the Civics Club about her program and how students can exercise their citizenship.

Anticipating guest Constitutional Law speaker Katherine Garza next week, Civics Club sponsor Kristen Szafasz expresses how presentations strengthen students’ will of patriotism in relevance to these times.

“One reason why we had Ms. Chickie-Wolfe another speaker next week is to discuss how high schoolers can use their free speech,” Szafasz said.

Civic education is a required subject, but for good reason. Staying informed, involved, and educated about the world news zipping past not only exposes people to new ideas, but inspires others to get involved themselves.

“Find something you care about and come down the rabbit hole. And that means becoming informed, but also means showing up,” Gordon said. “You can’t be an expert on everything, you can’t go to every meeting, so match up your interests with the needs of society. Here you guys are on the cusps of graduation, and there’s nothing in our building that isn’t walking in that direction. It’s all about what you’re gonna do when you leave these doors. Matching up your interests, developing those interests, and then finding where that fits into the world is the essence of arete.”

Who’s on my ballot?

November 5, 2024 In 19 days, the 60th presidential election will determine the next President of the United States.

(Photos by Tia Dufour and the White House via Wikimedia Commons) Isaiah Brundige Guest Column

Between coconut trees and transgender aliens, political internet culture has been a roller coaster this election. As we get closer to the ballot, I find it important to reflect on the memes and threads we subscribe to; as they may have more of an effect than you may think.

One of the first things discussed in AP Government is the role of the citizen. When Mr. Gordon introduced the topic, our class had to explore the complexities of being an educated citizen, touching on social media and its effects.

President

School Board

State Senator

Lieutenant Governor

State Representative

County Commissioner

Senator

Governor

Attorney General

U.S. Representative

Source: indianavoters.in.gov

I want to ask you: What political views are reflected on your feeds? Is it overtly one side or a mix of both? How often does the media demonize the other side through jokes or differing “hot takes”?

Even though the memes and commentary may seem lighthearted, what you usually see is the most sensational take. As journalist Max Fisher touches on in his recently published book, The Chaos Machine, many 2000s social media companies saw a switch in how they wanted to meet viewer margins.

Fisher talks about YouTube back in 2016 applying new algorithms ensuring the most entertaining, emotional and popular videos

gain the most opportunities to be viewed.

The one caveat within the system; there is no regulation on the spread of harmful information. In short, one’s feed supplies the most emotionally charged and stimulating media in the context of that one person’s opinions. For example, if you have a diehard liberal they are getting fed media designed to leave them outraged, and vice versa for conservatives. The effect leads to an even stronger polarization through politics.

As you catch yourself scrolling, take a second and reflect on the type of media you are consuming and the effect it has on your opinions this election cycle.

Feeding your feed

06 REVIEW

Thursday, Oct. 17, 2024

Reviewing different types of kits to transform a plain pumpkin and elevate your Halloween

Paint it What is included in the kit: • Washable paint • Paint brush • Glitter glue • Model Magic clay • “Pop-out” accessories

Carve it

What is included in the kit: • Tracer • Poker • Large carver • Scooper • Eight stencils

Lexi Villalobos Deadline Manager

Supplies: 4/5 I started off with the paints and paintbrush before using the others. Some colors of the washable paint were hard to see on the pumpkin, so having multiple layers of paint can make the color pop better. Other than that, the three others were easy to use.

Kit difficulty: 2/5 Not much had to necessarily be done in a certain way. The time you spend on this can depend on how much you want to paint and use the other supplies to decorate.

Overall, is it worth it?

Out of all three, the paint was my favorite. Planning out how I wanted to design and use the different materials in other ways than how they could be used was enjoyable. I loved the variety too—helping the creativity flow.

Supplies: 3/5 The large carver, poker and scooper were a tremendous help throughout the whole time I carved. You are better off not using the tracer with the stencils due to the sharp edges not poking through well enough to mark the carving spots (unless you know how to use them well).

Kit difficulty: 4/5 “Time consuming” can describe this kit from cleaning the outside, removing the guts, then carving any design—even if it’s not the provided stencils. Patience and time are needed for carving kits since the process is not one and done.

Overall, is it worth it?

There is no denying that a unique carved design stands out, showcasing skill and creativity. A nostalgic feel to the October month along with feeling accomplished once the final product is finished can make it worthwhile.

Extra Tips

Painting kit • You can reuse your remaining supplies such as the Model Magic clay if you store it in an air tight container.

Carving kit • Make sure you have a bowl and trash bag to discard of the pumpkin guts • Like the painting kit, reuse the tools in years to come.

Push-In kit • Mark the areas with a marker or pen where you would like each piece to go before pushing the pieces in.

Push it What is included in the kit: • Plastic bear head • Hands • Legs Supplies: 5/5 When taken out of the package, each part was clearly identifiable, making it easy to distinguish between the arms and hands. None of them were complicated and self forward when starting.

Kit difficulty: 1/5 In about a minute and thirty seconds, including wiping the dirt from the pumpkin so it has a spotless surface, the orange bear was completed. The push-in kit is easy

to use, but be cautious when positioning the pieces. The pointed ends can pierce through the pumpkin if you apply too much pressure, making it tricky to adjust once inserted.

Overall, is it worth it?

If you want the simplest way to make a pumpkin this year because of time or the other kits just are not for you, the push-in kit is a perfect solution. The option is hassle-free, inviting a fun environment and letting you as the user place the pieces anywhere you desire.

Photos by Lexi Villalobos

OPINION

Thursday, Oct. 17, 2024

07 In your head

Kylee Barnes Page Editor

Staff opinion

Not just the top

With the November election passed within the state and country. drawing nearer and nearer, politics While the president has the power have come to the forefront of the to prevent bills from being passed, public’s minds. And while memes the legislators you elect will help like coconut trees and eating dogs control what bills are sent to the may be a common hilarity, this elecpresident. tion holds a lot of weight.

This way, it is almost a way to It is understandable that people either improve your chances or deare paying attention to the presifend yourself against the rival. Say, dential race. It can feel like candidate opposite our take ifto the whichever candidate wins your political views Every single election will have an impact on the matters, not just the takes the presidency, but future of the country. Yet, presidential race. you manage to help vote this focused tension on the in a majority for your parpresidency alone means that most ty in the House or Senate, you have will forget about the other elections made it so that the opposite party held this year. will have a much harder time trying But there are many, and all are as to push their own agenda. Likewise, important as the presidency. By vota legislative and executive branch ing for a House of Representatives majority that is in your favored parcandidate and Senate candidate, ty will easily pass laws that support you will impact what laws will get your views.

Illustration by Damien Salahieh

But the federal government is only one part of the politics that can impact you. State governments follow the same pattern as the federal ones with the governor and the state’s legislative branch. There are also county elections, and even elections just for Munster.

These Munster elections are very important to this town specifically.

These are the ones controlling town matters, like the proposed Ridge Road shopping district plan. The school board, meanwhile, assists in all sorts of matters, including funding. They directly impact what is happening to the students here.

So yes, while the presidential race may be on the forefront of everyone’s mind, your vote matters everywhere, not just at the top.

in our words crier describes what voting means to them

“

Voting means making an impact on the community in the way that I am.”

Evelyn Koncalovic

Sophomore

“

My perspective on voting really changed when I started government class.”

“

As a first time voter this year, voting allows me to shape my own history.”

Lexi Villalobos

Senior

Emily Dywan

CRIER

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. Crier is published through the Student Media: Newspaper 1-4 classes and extra-curricular involvement.

Crier’s website is 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.

Senior

“

Voting is important to me because it shows that, as an American, I can put my opinion on who I think should run.”

Gabby Van Horne

Senior

•Opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of the School Town of Munster, faculty or administration.

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As we journey through our high school careers, friendships are formed, futures become clearer and opportunities fly right past our unsuspecting heads. These primary years are the most important period for self improvement and growth, but it’s hard to focus on yourself when there are so many other aspects to consider. From deciding what classes to enroll in as a freshman, to choosing which college you’ll attend as a senior, all of the choices we’re forced to conquer are accompanied by the opinions of our peers and loved ones.

Believe it or not, the decisions we make throughout our teenage years will influence us for the rest of our lives. That fact being addressed, it’s important to take the time to look within yourself and review the route you took.

Why did you take this class? How many steps behind did that set you back?

Where do you go from here? Was it the friends you made? The people you asked for advice? Who are you when you are entirely alone?

It is very easy to be influenced by the society surrounding us on a daily basis, which is not always a bad thing. Growing up, we learn our parents’ and loved one’s values. We absorb their political opinions and worldly thoughts and stretch them to fit our own schemas, and as the cycle progresses, we fight and argue to develop our own version of these morals.

Although the effort is undeniably there, becoming a version of yourself that is entirely and utterly you is impossible. We are made of the people we meet and the experiences we share throughout life, but organizing those experiences and interactions according to your own beliefs is what makes us so different from each other. The concept of being an “independent individual,” and following the beat of your own drum can only occur when you take the time to truly reflect inwardly on your own.

Editor-in-Chief Emily Dywan Deadline Manager Lexi Villalobos Head Photographer Zoe Clark Cartoonist and Design Chief Damien Salahieh Story Editor and Web Chief Emma Starkey Photography Trainer John Kullerstrand Page Editor Kylee Barnes Photographers Evelyn Koncalovic, Sophia Rodriguez, Ben Schirz Social Media Manager Josephine Zangrilli Beat Manager Gabby Van Horne Adviser Ms. Alexandra Sulewski

STUDENT LIFE

Thursday, Oct. 17, 2024

Depths of the Dungeons

Dungeons and Dragons club begins their year long campaign Emma Starkey Web Designer

A sharp scream of terror fills the Resource Room during the Wednesday Dungeons and Dragons club campaign group on Oct. 2 as Sorcerer Elf Blub Tano, played by sophomore Marissa Sertic, decides that their husband Tom is dead. Despite only being two sessions into the year-long campaign that started with a callout meeting Aug. 30, a lot has already happened.

“The most pivotal points is mainly just my son Kai currently is getting targeted by a group of cultists,” Sertic said. “Oh, and also, this being of entirely fire that called himself the fire prince or king.”

Meeting about every other week, both campaigns progress on unique storylines that are largely influenced by the party’s characters. For example, a conflict was created when sophomore Geofferoi Guiton’s Kailorenoy Tano would go on to start a demonic ritual that would burn a tavern down, that the party had been in.

“I’m not a neglecting mother to say, I just forget I have a kid if he’s not like in my line of sight,” Sertic said.

Blub Tano would also eventually end up in prison for their actions, as well. The Friday campaign, meanwhile, are also currently working through prison, however unlike Blub Tano, the entire party is trapped. They are currently trying to escape.

“Not too much has happened,” Friday campaign game master, and senior Paul Harkenrider said. “But the players have been captured by the evil elves called the drow.”

For Harkenrider, the value in Dungeons in Dragons is having an enjoyable time with his friends. He also enjoys the math aspect of the game.

“Rolling dice and trying to work together to tell a story and accomplish a goal are fun,” Harkenrider said.

For others, though, the main appeal of Dungeons and Dragons is the sheer amount of cre-

Xyzai HyacinthusOrientailis Papadopoulos aka Xyzal (Mya Martin): • Druid Aarakocra • Druids draw their magical ability from nature itself, revering the natural world over everything else.

Their spells too are centered around nature.

• A race of anthropomorphic birds that are most comfortable in the sky.

Most are not from the Material Plane.

ativity the players can use. It can seem that there are infinite possibilities for any one situation the players find themselves in. This in turn just makes the entertainment value higher.

“It’s so much fun, because of the amount of stupid stuff you can do,” Sertic said. “Like, in my last campaign, I got married, and as I was getting married, my mother, we didn’t know this at the time, but my mother and her band of pirate elves attacked my wedding, and I ended up kidnapping my own mother.”

Blub Tano (Marissa Sertic): • Elf Sorcerer • Sorcerer’s powers choose them, and they always have some sort of origin.

They fight using magic via spells and cantrips.

• Elves appear beautiful to creatures of other races, and are known for their otherworldly grace but lack of

Backtalk

If you had an unlimited amount of money, what would you be for Halloween?

“Money. I’d just dress up as money.”

“The Flash prob ably.”

Hazel Harkenrider, Freshman

Kenyon Hubbard, Freshman

“I would be Charlotte from Princess and the Frog.”

Eden Carmen, Sophomore

Photos by Josephine Zangrilli

Kailorenoy Tano (Geofferoi Guiton): • Blood Hunter Fire Genasi Beast • Blood Hunters found magic within the usage of blood, trading their own health to cast spells.

• The Fire Genasi Beast is an origi-

08

“Realistic Batman costume with a red emblem instead of yellow.”

Anakin Hoffman, Sophomore

“Unicorns because it would be a better color sceme and original.”

“I’d be a green alien in a UFO.”

Emma Robbins, Junior AJ Harris, Junior

Victor Stal (Ethan Gorny): • Barbarian Wizard Warforged Donkey • Barbarians focus on connection to natural instincts and dislike civilization for it. They tend to be focused in physical combat.

• Wizards are magicfocused, drawing their source of magic from some incident where they come in contact with it.

• Warforged are creatures made from metal, robot creations designed for war that now lack a

“I’d want to be a fairy so I can have sunglass wings and diamond bejeweling.”

Charisse Hagerman, Senior

“You know those really expensive balloon dinos?

Like that but really expensive.”

Vasiliki Tsiakopoulos, Senior

“I would dress up as the creature from the Black Lagoon and make fish faces with my mouth.”

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Jim McNabney, English Teacher Illustration by Mya Martin

Nicklaus Ronsen, Science Teacher