The Tom Tom |December 16, 2018 by Antioch Community High School Tom Tom

THE STUDENT VOICE OF ANTIOCH COMMUNITY HIGH SCHOOL

e k i l s l e e f what it e yourself to not se ars in the st

d n a s traditimonily the fa

c i s u m whenes alive com

n i g n i com he cold from t

volume 57 . issue 3. december 2018 sequoitmedia.com. @achstomtom. @sequoitsports 1133 main street. antioch, illinois. 60002

IN THIS ISSUE SOCIAL

GET CONNECTED WITH US. FOLLOW OUR ACCOUNTS FOR UPDATES AND NEW CONTENT. @ACHSTOMTOM

@SEQUOITSPORTS

@ACHSTOMTOM

PERSPECTIVES 04 | EDITOR’S NOTE

05 | STAFF EDITORIAL

NEWS

06 | NEWS IN BRIEF

LIFESTYLES

@SEQUOITSPORTS

19 | SEEKING THE TRUTH IN TOXIC RELATIONSHIPS

@ACHSTOMTOM

SPORTS

@ACHSTOMTOM

27 | SPORTS SNAPSHOT

34 | WHAT IT FEELS LIKE TO NOT SEE YOURSELF IN THE STARS

THE TOM TOM | 2018-2019

FEATURES 20 | LIVING (AND DYING) THE DREAM Popular music may be more influenced by death than previously thought. 22 | CHILLED TO THE BONE Mom always said to put a jacket on when it gets cold, but why does the body need to cover up? 24 | (UN)TRADITIONAL Lasting from generation to generation, religion and traditions always have importance within any family.

The Tom Tom is a student-produced magazine that is distributed to students, faculty and staff of Antioch Community High School, as well as the members of the Antioch Community. Members of the Tom Tom staff contribute to sequoitmedia.com, the Sequoit Media website, on a regular basis. The student magazine serves as a public forum and is supported by New Voices legislation in Illinois and policies of Community High School District 117. Opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of ACHS or D117, nor Antioch Community High School’s faculy, staff or administration. CONTACT INFORMATION Mailing Address: 1133 Main St., Antioch, Ill. 60002 // Phone: 847-395-9433 Website: sequoitmedia.com Email: thetomtom@chsd117.org MEMBERSHIP The Tom Tom belongs to the Kettle Moraine Press Association, National Scholastic Press Association, Columbia Scholastic Press Association and Quill & Scroll International Journalism Honor Society. ADVERTISING Businesses and community members may sponsor the Tom Tom if their sponsorships adhere to guidelines. These can be found in the Sequoit Media Lab (room 263) or on our website (sequoitmedia.com). EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Emily M. Torres MANAGING EDITORS Diana Anghel Gianna M. Chiappetta PRINT DIRECTOR Benjamin J. Nauman DIGITAL DIRECTORS Alex L. Rapp Karley K. Rogalsk SPECIAL PROJECTS DIRECTORS Jessica J. Nettgen Eleni A. Sakas CREATIVE DIRECTORS Merrick W. Foote

Aliya N. Rhodes ASST. DIRECTORS Joseph M. Kestian Avery J. Frasch SENIOR EDITORS Alexander J. Riedel

ON THE COVER WE’RE ALL ABOUT CARING FOR OTHERS. SO IS SHE.

FRESHMAN ALEXA PHILLIPS FINDS HERSELF IN THE SPOTLIGHT QUITE OFTEN, BUT IT’S THE LITTLE THINGS THAT MATTER MOST TO HER.

volume 57 . issue 3. december 2018

JUNIOR EDITORAL BOARD Joy L. Crawford Kayla E. Grenke Emily A. Higgins Alex C. Johnson Madisen M. Krapf Emily Lara

Valerie N. Rasmussen Alessia N. Rivera Sarah M. Smith Mollie T. Wagner Sierra M. Ward TOM TOM STAFF Haley M. Aitken Kylar A. Arias Charlotte M. Bongratz Reagan C. Brewer Gavin R. Calabrese Kyle A. Christian Evan M. Day Lena M. DeVore Kara C. Galarneau Julia C. Hackeloer Kaitlyn A. Howe Robbie S. Hulting Izzy J. Hunter Jake T. Ilkka Athan A. Kaliakmanis Sofia C. Klem Avery A. Krizanovic Jacob R. Leitza Madison R. McBride Bridget J. Nauman Alexis N. Olson Brandon R. Pinto Shannon E. Price Maggie M. Quirke Brandon R. Reynolds Jazzmyn J. Roman Valerie Rosek

Grace A. Rowe Adrian Ruiz Rilee A. Schreiner Matt P. Soberano Kevin E. Tamayo Cassidy A. Thomas Katelyn M. Vaskovsky Beatriz C. Warnes Joseph R. Whittall Walker A. Winkler ADVISER Patrick R. Johnson, MJE SEQUOIT MEDIA TEAM Iwona Awlasewicz, SBN Sarah Ogborn, Sequoia Sam Worden, Finesse ENGLISH DEPARTMENT CHAIR Dee Andershock ACHS ADMINISTRATION Eric Hamilton, Principal Aryan Haren, Assistant Principal for Curriculum and Instruction Scott Leverentz, Assistant Principal for Student Services Steve Schoenfelder, Athletic Director Teri Klobnak, Activities Director Patricia McGuigan, Dean Grant Murray, Dean DISTRICT ADMINISTRATION Jim McKay, Superintendent Brad Hubbard, Asst. Superintendent Brie Cederna, Asst. Superintendent Jennifer Nolde, Asst. Superintendent Ryan Miles, Chief Technology Officer

MISSION STATEMENT The Tom Tom seeks to not only be the premier source of student news, sports and lifestyles at Antioch Community High School, but it also aspires to do so with integrity, respect, responsibility and pride. The Tom Tom believes wholeheartedly in giving voices to the voiceless through unique engaging methods of storytelling, while engaging with the Antioch community to see diverse and challenging perspectives. In doing so, we choose to tell some of the more challenging or untold stories even when they can be controversial in order to make our community stronger, more caring, and more tolerant. This program envisions a holistic experience of quality journalism through print publications and digital content, as well as promotes student spirit and school culture through innovative and inspiring public relations and advertising campaigns. We are the Tom Tom. We are originals. It would be an awfully big adventure if you choose to come along with us and work as one community, one Sequoit. RESPONDING TO THE TOM TOM Letters to the Tom Tom can be submitted through sequoitmedia.com or directly to the adviser’s email. All letters must be signed, must not contain personal attacks against an individual and may be edited. CORRECTIONS AND CLARIFICATIONS The Tom Tom is committed to seeking the truth, minimizing harm and presenting the most accurate reporting as possible. If you notice any inaccuracies in this or previous issues, please contact the adviser at patrick.johnson@chsd117.org.

EDITOR’S NOTE

LEGACIES GROW AND CHANGE Problems and pains are common in families, and for ours it means coming back stronger than ever.

EMILY M. TORRES editor-in-chief @emily_marilynnt

very family has their problems. People fight, love, hurt and everything in between. In the past two magazines I have discussed the different dynamics that the past five years have contributed to the Tom Tom. The third year of the Tom Tom was a group of journalists who truly enforced the family dynamic that the Tom Tom cherishes. This group introduced what we now call our sports media program: “The Arrow.” They grew together as a family, fought as a family and loved as one. This year, my staff has had many ups and downs and due to this we’ve had to come together as one unit: a family. We’re constantly having meetings trying to get to know each other because, in the end, this is family. Our family this year is

growing from our past experiences. While we aren’t exactly like the staff three years ago, we have a family connection that is finally starting to shine through the shadow of darkened clouds. We hope that at the end of this year we can say that not only did we restart a legacy and find our own places, we want to be able to say that we found our other family. When coming into this program, you don’t really think about how close you’re going to get to the people around you. Walking into the media lab the first day, you don’t expect to have your life changed in so many ways, but it does. The reason it changes lives is because that third year group made a family dynamic of a journalism program which has then carried out in the years after. While not many stories in this magazine have anything to do with family, this year’s staff became one with the production of our third magazine. In our third magazine of the year, you will see stories about how beauty is affecting the minds of those both young and old in “No More Second Glances” by Tom Tom staffer Beatriz Warnes, to a story about toxic relationships and how one must recognize the problems in “Seeking the Truth in Toxic Relationships” by junior editor Joyclyn Crawford. In the first feature of this magazine, junior editor Emily Higgins writes about the effects that cold weather has on the body. Tom Tom staffer Jacob Leitza writes about why people start to listen to music after the musician has passed away. Tom Tom staffer Julia Hackeloer wrote about the importance of family traditions throughout the generations. As always, thank you for reading the Tom Tom. We hope that you see where our family came together in the pages of this magazine.

ONLINE EXCLUSIVES this month WORKING HARD OR HARDLY WORKING by Assistant Director Joey Kestian TIPS AND TRICKS FOR HAVING A GOOD DAY by Senior Editor Alex Riedel MAINTAINING MENTAL STRENGTH IN SPORTS by Junior Editor Madisen Krapf SEQUOIT TO SEQUOIT: NATURE VERSUS NURTURE by Tom Tom staffers Charlie

DON’T FORGET TO CHECK SEQUOITMEDIA. COM DAILY FOR NEW CONTENT AND FOR ALL OF THESE ONLINE EXCLUSIVES.

Bongrats and Madison McBride

JUDGING BY THE COVER by Junior Editor Sierra Ward WHAT DIFFERENT MEDIA PROGRAMS LOOK LIKE by Tom Tom staffer Lena DeVore D117 BOUNDARY LINES IMPACT STUDENT TRANSPORTATION by Tom Tom staffer Jake Illka

RAPE CULTURE PERVASIVE IN COMMENTARY by Tom Tom staffer Shannon Price THE EXPERIENCE OF AN ONLY CHILD by Tom Tom staffer Maggie Quirke BEHIND THE GLASS: THE NOT SO WILD LIFE OF ZOOS by Junior Editor Valerie Rasmussen

CHRISTMAS TRADITIONS IN THE COMMUNITY by Senior Editor Alex Riedel 4 | PERSPECTIVES | December 2018 | The Tom Tom

t o n s ’ t a th ks all fol

STAFF EDITORIAL

BATHROOM BEHAVIOR IS STALLING SEQUOITS’ SUCCESS

aliya rHoDes

What haPPens in the bathroom, isn’t staying in the bathroom.

ddiction overpowers everything, even when it comes to consequences. When Sequoits are caught vaping or smoking in the restrooms, their punishment doesn’t seem to phase them. Is it because the punishment doesn’t fit the crime? Or, is it because their addiction blinds their natural instinct to stop what they’re doing wrong? When you put things into perspective, the incidents occurring in the bathrooms are considered crimes; it’s illegal to smoke anything if you’re under the age of 18; it’s illegal to smoke anything on school grounds. Even though the school sent out numerous emails and other forms of communication in regards to this situation, and banned certain restrooms, Sequoits will always find another way to feed their habit. Let’s clarify some things: when we mention addiction, we aren’t just referring to nicotine, tobacco or marijuana; we believe the thrill of being caught is another reason why students put themselves in the place of being a “criminal” in the eyes of the school. Both the students and the district know that these students will never be referred to as criminals, however, because the school’s bark is certainly bigger than its bite.

As for the vandalism, we cannot understand, nor do we condone, why destroying property afforded to us is something that seems desirable. We, as a staff, are rarely left speechless when it comes to school events, but recent bathroom happenings have left us without an explanation. It’s one of the only places with true privacy in the entire building, and here we are making a skate park out of it. For the students that think they can outsmart the administrators, maybe you are; however, you can’t outsmart the rest of the students. Sequoit to Sequoit, we all know who the kids are that vape in the bathrooms and write names on the walls, yet we all stand mute in fear of the consequences of being a “tattle tale.” No one wants to be the reason another student gets “in trouble,” but if no one is to blame, then these issues will never cease. Soon, there won’t be any privacy in the restrooms; only for a clogged toilet filled with excuses the school has to make to quiet down the talk of the town. With all this smoke, there’s a fire nearby and no one to put it out. The three pillars of the school are respect, responsibility and pride; and, as of right now, all of us are abusing those words. Actions speak louder than words, Sequoits, and the actions of some are causing the rest of us to pay the price of your addiction.

6 | NEWS | December 2018 | The Tom Tom

IN BRIEF HOLIDAY EVENT GIVES BACK TO COMMUNITY MEMBERS The Antioch Police Department partnered with Raymond Chevrolet and Walmart to provide gifts for kids who may be unable to receive presents under their Christmas trees this year. Community members are also able to attend to help shop for others and give back to the greater community. The annual event, which the APD believes is to assist less fortunate kids, Shop with a Cop, was held Tuesday, December 11. “It brings a smile to my face every time I see the reactions on the kids faces when Santa shows up and then again when they get their gifts,” patrol officer Paul Klem said. “I like it because for the children that participate they may not get very much for Christmas and this helps them enjoy what they possibly couldn’t [have] otherwise.”

Valerie Rosek

For the event, boys and girls walked side-by-side with a cop and picked out presents till they reached their $100 budget. Not only did they bring home presents for themselves, but they were also able to bring home essentials and gifts for their parents. VALERIE ROSEK

8 | NEWS | December 2018 | The Tom Tom

IN BRIEF ANNUAL EVENT ADDS KNOWLEDGE IN ELEMENTARY STUDENTS Each year the math department looks to create opportunities for students in the local elementary schools to learn math and do so in a unique and fun way: the math fair. The games are made by the honors integrated math students in an effort for them to share their math knowledge with future Sequoits and Eagles. Some of the games this year focused on using flash cards and baggo boards to teach basic multiplication and division, while others used unique methods such as â&#x20AC;&#x153;math pong,â&#x20AC;? spinning wheels, basketball hoops and targets to teach addition, subtraction and other basic math concepts. The annual event also included a prize table for the second through fifth graders to turn in tickets they won at each game. Valerie Rosek JESSICA J. NETTGEN

10 | NEWS | December 2018 | The Tom Tom

IN BRIEF HOLIDAY CONCERT ENDS WITH MEDLY OF CHRISTMAS CLASSICS Antioch Community High School offers an annual winter concert to come to, this years was held on Thursday, December 13th. The different choirs, bands and orchestras provided at school were given the task to perform for fellow students, faculty, friends and family members in the school auditorium. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It was fun to see all choir, orchestra and band come together on stage to then sing and play one song all together,â&#x20AC;? sophomore Aidan Trusky said. The producers behind the magic include choir teachers, Michael Hickey and Daniel Ermel orchestra teacher, Michael Riggs and band teacher, Jonathan Untch. Cohesively the music department performed a singular song together. They were able to show their talents as a whole music program along with as singulars musical groups. Alex Rapp VALERIE ROSEK

| 11

THINGS YOU ARE DOING RIGHT NOW THAT ARE HINDERING YOUR HEALTH KAITLYN A. HOWE tom tom staff @_kaitlynhowe_

ften times, one does not know what may be hurting them the most. In regards to mental health, there are many things that one may be doing that are detrimental, without them even knowing. Five habits that hinder mental health include a lack of exercise, overusage of social media, remaining in unhealthy relationships, being sleep deprived and vaping.

LACK OF EXERCISE The benefits of exercise are not only limited to athletes; any person with a small amount of time and motivation to improve their well being can receive a mood boost from working out. While getting active may seem dreadful to many, the mental benefits of exercise can outweigh any negatives involved. According to Psychology Today, physical exercise is proven to release the body’s feel-good hormones, endorphins and enkephalins. These hormones reduce stress, improve problem-solving skills and minimize damaging thoughts towards one’s self. More hormones will be released with more exercize. “[Exercise] lets me get my anger and frustration out, so I feel happy,” junior Mckenna Kalisz said.

SOCIAL MEDIA According to Buzzfeed Video, the main impacts of social media are, against popular belief, actually positive. Social media triggers a cycle of hormones resulting from positive social stimuli, such as likes, comments or follow requests. Dopamine sends positive signals and messages to other parts of the brain. When the brain recognizes this cycle, it will continue to want it, sparking the addiction. Social media on its

12 | NEWS | December 2018 | The Tom Tom

own may be good for the brain, but when the addiction spills into other aspects of life is when it can go downhill. The constant need for social satisfaction could be blamed for the supposed shortening of teenage attention spans. Social media has also helped create false body images and expectations for teens. According to NationalEatingDisorders.org, being unable to match these standards has led to eating disorders and other mental illnesses.

UNHEALTHY RELATIONSHIPS It is commonly said that being verbal about one’s feelings will improve one’s mental health; this may be true, but maybe only to a certain degree. When the person one is friends with is emotionally draining, selfdeprecating and/or a mood dampener, relationships can actually hinder one’s mental health. The quality of a relationship decreases when one has to question the true sincerity of a relationship. “Having bad friends make me feel upset because I do not know if they are true,” freshman Tegan Martinez said. Not upsetting the other person could be argued as a baseline requirement of a healthy friendship. Those in healthy relationships should be energized by the other person, obtain a higher self esteem, feel a

boost in their mood and have many other mental health benefits.

SLEEP DEPRIVATION For the average teenager, getting seven to nine hours of sleep a night can seem nearly impossible. Not getting the proper amount of sleep can make one less patient, more irritable and ultimately unhappy. Also, according to SleepFoundation.org, sleep deprivation has been found to cause depression. In the busy life of a teenager, life may seem like a constant cycle of not getting enough sleep while also not having enough time to get all their work done. “To make sure I get enough sleep, I try to stay on a decent sleep schedule that can leave me seven to eight hours [of sleep] a night during the school week,” sophomore Maiah Moll said.

VAPING Ever since vaping became popular it has been a controversial subject, especially among teenagers. Some may claim that vaping has a positive effect on one’s mental health by taking into account the feeling of “relaxation” associated with vaping. But, according to VapingDaily, those with anxiety and/ or depression vaping can have a completely different effect. The repercussions of vaping can worsen the symptoms of anxiety and depression. To those who have not been diagnosed with anxiety and/or depression, an addiction to vaping can spark the symptoms of such mental illness. Anxiety and sad feelings can occur from nicotine withdrawal. Anyone can have a bad day; however, when the bad days begin to pile up, it is important to detect what may be hindering one’s mental health. Bad habits like kaitlyn HoWe a lack of exercise, overusage of social media, remaining in unhealthy relationships, being sleep deprived or vaping can be a hidden killer of one’s happiness.

alessia

Rivera

DON’T SLEEP ON SLEEP When students don’t get enough Zs at night, their bodies aren’t able to work effectively the next day.

SARAH M. SMITH junior editor @smsmitty

or high school students, getting enough sleep is crucial to making a positive difference in one’s everyday life. For some

students, however, getting enough sleep while also balancing a social life, sports, family and completing homework is a difficult task to accomplish. According to Child Mind Institute author Juliann Garey, sleep deprivation can lead to an increased risk of injuries, substance and alcohol use, changes in mood, mental illnesses such as depression and anxiety and many more negative effects on teenagers’ minds and bodies. Additionally, some of the leading causes for sleep deprivation are technology, homework and

overscheduling of one’s life. “The physical, mental and behavioral consequences of sleep deprivation are profound,” Garey said. “Sleep deprivation puts teenagers into a kind of perpetual cloud or haze that can negatively affect a teenager’s mood, ability to think, to react, to regulate their emotions, to learn and to get along with adults.” Sleeping is the body’s way of resting, relaxing and restoring energy. For a growing teenager, sleep can impact their life in many ways. If one does not receive the necessary amount of sleep, sleep deprivation can lead to lifelong problems and in extreme cases, death. For someone that is in AP classes and involved in multiple sports year round, students can have difficulty managing their time. Junior Samantha Champney, alongside many other high school students, has a hard time getting things done while also getting a good amount of sleep. “I get a ton of homework everyday and I have to stay up really late to get it done,” Champney said. “Sometimes I don’t even finish [my homework] because I just need to go to bed. Sports and homework combined make it even harder to get both done and get the proper amount of sleep.” While getting enough sleep is often problematic for teenagers, sleep deprivation can be prevented in many ways. Technology plays a big role in sleep deprivation, so limiting the amount of

screen time one has in the hours before bedtime is helpful in allowing one to fall–and stay–asleep. “[I have] seen adolescent bedtimes pushed back an hour to an hour and a half over the years since teens started doing their homework on computers,” pediatrician Max Van Gilder said. “On average, my teenage patients are going to bed at around 12:30 a.m. now. Teens who are up late writing papers on computers or chatting with their friends are effectively creating an even more stimulating environment that will only keep them from being able to fall asleep when they want to.” Along with technology, homework is another factor that can be improved. Homework can take hours to complete each night; adding a sport to the mix only decreases the amount of time a teenager has to complete the amount of work that is assigned each day. “Many students do extracurriculars for a few hours after school and cannot start homework until after dinner,” pediatrician Craig Canapari said. “The typical teenager requires 8-9 hours of sleep per night, so even a teen with good sleep habits [is] generally sleep deprived.” Sleep deprivation is well-known and experienced by many high school students. The causes of this are clear to anyone who experiences it, yet it continues to be experienced by students. The problem has not been effectively addressed and there has been no true solution to sleep deprivation yet.

| 13

BOOKS ARE FOR EVERYONE there are asPects to every book that can aPPeal to every tyPe of reader out there.

t’s hard to believe that even in the 21st century there are still gender stereotypes; however, sometimes people may be ignorant to the fact that they are still in a lot of aspects of everyday life. Something as simple as reading can be turned into a social issue because boys think that reading a romance book will take away their masculinity or girls are not drawn to action books because they do not want to lose their femininity. “I know in both cases there are girls that love to read just purely action,” junior Jennifer Ambre said. “And boys that are romantic.” In this generation, gender stereotypes are easily broken because there are a lot of people in this world that are willing to be more open about these topics. It is important that society is the same way with books. Reading is an essential part of life so it is important to make sure that it is as enjoyable as possible for all different types of people. “You should read everything,” English teacher Audrey NagelSchoonmaker said. “That is how you learn what you like.” If people step back and stop worrying about what others think of them, then they will be able to gain a new perspective that they did not think was even possible. “Reading books and experiencing life, more than what is right in front of you, is huge,” English teacher Sam Worden said.

ALEXANDRA C. JOHNSON junior editor @woahalex2

There are certain aspects to every single book that can draw a diverse group of people into it. Not everyone likes an actionpacked book or a love story, but most books have a little bit of everything in them. Maybe it is time to jump into something unexpected, and here are nine books that know no gender.

“THE HUNGER GAMES” This well known novel by Suzanne Collins follows the story of an independent girl living in a dystopian society about to enter the fight of her life, literally. While that part of the book can appeal to the action and adventure seekers there is still a bit of romance between a few of the characters that can appeal to the more romantic nature of some readers.

“THE BOOK THIEF” Set in Nazi Germany this book is a fictional rendition of the lives of a family trying to survive in this horrific time of mass genocide. While the book can draw in people intrigued by historical fiction, it can also bring in readers that love a heart wrenching story of love and loss that is also a prominent theme throughout this novel.

“BRAVE NEW WORLD” This novel showcases a “utopian” society that genetically modified human embryos to ensure that they are exactly what people want them to be. While it discusses the problems about how inhumane this type of thing is, it also dives deep into the politics of a utopian society that is completely different from this world.

14 | NEWS | December 2018 | The Tom Tom

“IN COLD BLOOD” This book tells the true story of the murder of the Clutter family. While it brings in the people that love a good mystery, it also shows the psychological perspective of the murderers themselves. It dives deep into a lot of different perspectives that can attract a larger group of people.

“A PRAYER FOR OWEN MEANY” In the Summer of 1953 two young boys are playing baseball together when one of the boys hits a foul ball that kills the other boy’s mother. While it sounds like a gruesome book, it actually follows the story of a boy that finds his faith through the death of his mother. While it has some aspects of a murder, it is also a heartwarming story of a young boy finding his faith.

“CONFESSIONS OF A MURDER SUSPECT” This novel tells the story of a family that has what some people view as the perfect life: good grades, athletic and smart. It all comes crashing down when the mom and dad are murdered. While it is a mystery at the forefront, it can also be seen as a scientific book due to the fact that before his death, the dad has created vitamins in his lab that he makes his children take everyday.

“THE ROAD” In a somewhat post-apocalyptic world a father and son travel through the rough terrain of the southeastern United States. It follows the touching story of a bond between an unnamed father and son, but it is also a gruesome book about a world that has fallen apart after a tragedy has struck the nation.

“THE HANDMAID’S TALE” Due to dangerously low reproduction rates, handmaids are assigned to a family to carry their children for them. While this does not seem so bad, but these women are forced to bear the children of people that they do not even know. This book is a dystopian-style book, but it can also appeal to those readers that have a more romantic side with some themes about forbidden romance.

“THE COLOR PURPLE” A gruesome abuse story of a young African American girl whose father beats and rapes her repeatedly, “The Color Purple” follows the misfortune of a young girl named Celie. It also tells the story of Celie finding herself experimenting with her sexuality while going through such hard times.

“THE NIGHT SHE DISAPPEARED” When two teenage girls, Kayla and Gabie, switch shifts at the local pizza parlor they are unaware that someone is trying to kidnap one of them. When the wrong girl is kidnapped, Gabie is determined to find her because she was the one that the kidnapper was supposed to get. This book consistently switches perspectives from Kayla to Gabie and even the kidnapper to open the book to a diverse group of people.

| 15

THE LEADER: SAMANTHA WANKE

OUTSIDE THE HALLS OF ACHS Despite having a

number of athletics and activities to participate in, these Sequoits choose to go their own way.

For the last four years, junior Samantha Wanke has participated in Venturing Crew 92. The Venturing Crew offers a variety of activities such as canoeing, backpacking and various leadership opportunities. “I really enjoy camping and being outdoors,” Wanke said. ”Over time, I grew to learn about camping and being outdoors along with leadership and how to teach others.” The rankings in the program are based on leadership skills. Currently, Wanke is a pathfinder working her way up to a summit. The summit award is the highest award one can achieve in the program. “The first award is the venturing award and then the discovery award, pathfinder and summit,” Wanke said. “Each one works on strengthening the leadership skills, starting with venturing; it’s warming up to the program and starting you with activities.” In addition to her participation with the Venturing Crew, Wanke also is the leader of a separate all girls troop in the community. “I’m the leader of two troops, so it was a struggle balancing the both of them,” Wanke said. “I was always putting school first before scouts.”

KARA C. GALARNEAU tom tom staff @karag__

16 | LIFESTYLES | December 2018 | The Tom Tom

Though balancing activities with school is difficult, Wanke still manages to carry a 4.1 grade point average. She is also sure to always help the school and community. Wanke’s story is one to inspire many as she participates in extra curriculars throughout the community and continues to do well in school.

THE ATHLETES: BRAEDEN WIENHOLTZ AND DAYLIA BROCK Two student athletes that do not participate in athletics at Antioch Community High School, are sophomore Braeden Wienholtz and freshman Daylia Brock. The two may not be involved at the high school, but they both deserve an equal amount of recognition. From a young age their sports have achieved great accomplishments. Wienholtz has swam for the Hastings Lake YMCA for 14 seasons, and is currently competing in the 21 and under division. His love for swimming has carried on through high school, and his passion for the sport keeps him going. “I swim because it gives me a sense of community, and the people I swim with are really kind,” Wienholtz said. “It also just feels really nice when you beat your time or get a new personal record.” Wienholtz’s long time commitment and love for swimming has paid off as just last year his relay team placed second in the state against many other teams. Brock is also a student who focuses on activities outside of school instead of inside. She dances at Shine Bright Dance Studio and started dancing at the age of nine. Starting at this age was difficult for Brock, her skills were under developed while the other dancers at the studio had been more experienced. “The first time I walked into the studio, I was a cheerleader just coming to practice technique and I was so bad and everyone was older than me,” Brock said. “Going across the floor when she was saying words I didn’t know was just a really weird experience for me but now, looking back, it was so important, and now I’m super good friends with all of the girls.” With Brock’s hard work and dedication her team was able to win their national competition this past year. Wienholtz and Brock are two students who are passionate about two different sports, but one thing that they have in common is their dedication that has brought them to a level higher than they ever thought they could achieve.

| 17

NO MORE SECOND

GLANCES

Beauty continues to plague the minds of those both young and old; maybe, the definition in itself is nonexistent. Isabelle Hunter

BEATRIZ C. WARNES tom tom staff @bwarnes28

t’s the word “beautiful” that ties one’s heart to their physical appearance. The necessity to be the person that warrants a second glance leaves some feeling small, as if the weight of the societal definition of beauty is towering over them. A simple word seems limitless when looking out onto the history it has left behind. To live in this society is to be looked down upon when not following the underlying rules the term carries; nevertheless, these limits seem unreachable, for they aren’t actually there. It’s a word, but also a never-ending ripple in this society that changes a person without a reason. To be beautiful means to be pleasing to one’s mind aesthetically. While it is in the definition, what tends to be forgotten is the mental aspect. Throughout the years, it was the physical image that causes some to appear harsh. “We look at pictures of [40s icons] and we say [they were] just a product or a moneymaker for the studio,” 79-year-old Danielle Arnet said. “It was a cruel world and I think beauty was a part of it. It’s changing, but we’re so much better off [now].”

Isabelle Hunter

While progress is forever needed to be made, some believe there has never been a more freeing time than now. Arnet believes social media has lost the grip on people that it once had. In the past, Arnet believes people looked at movies for inspiration, but today’s teens look to the mirror instead. They strive for beauty in themselves instead of letting those older than them write out their future in magazines. Yet, some teenagers tend to shatter the mirror instead. An opinion article, The Body Image Issue Plaguing My Generation, by the Huffington Post wrote about stereotypes for both genders. They believe guys and girls are equal in the amount of bodily insecurities they are forced to face. Some like to assume themselves to be kind to others, but a lot of the times that isn’t the case. According to the article, when looking for a romantic relationship, guys want someone skinny and sexy and girls care solely for a muscular build. Not to mention, they go after their own gender as well; guys prey on those “weaker” than them, and girls do the same, but with women they think are less attractive than them. “There’s a lot of Instagram models that you just see and you want to be like them,” freshman Haleigh Zenoni said. “[But] there’s also a lot of accounts that you’ll see that talk about how beauty isn’t just about how you look and everyone and everything is beautiful—it comes in all different shapes and sizes.”

Isabelle Hunter

18 | LIFESTYLES | December 2018 | The Tom Tom

JOY L. CRAWFORD junior editor @joycrawfordl

elationships are a key piece of the puzzle that shapes who a person is. There are a plethora of different relationships. Each one is unique to the individuals involved but in any relationship, negativity that can develop: toxicity. A toxic or unhealthy relationship is one that doesn’t benefit either person that is part of it, oftentimes doing more harm than good for one or both of the participants. Kelly Campell, PhD and associate professor of psychology and human development at California State University, San Bernardino, gave Kelly Dawson of MYDOMAINE her interpretation of toxic relationships. “A toxic relationship is one that adversely impacts a person’s health and well-being,” Campell said. “Because we spend so much of our time and energy on a romantic partner, these relationships are especially influential on our well-being.” Campell continued by explaining that when one’s partner is doing well, they usually are too. Adversely, when one’s partner isn’t doing well, they aren’t either. A common theme in unhealthy relationships is manipulation. Manipulation often comes into play when the person who caused an issue tries to weasel out of accepting blame by wallowing in self pity or throwing their

Junior Allison Beckman spoke out about a toxic relationship that she’d witnessed in which one partner seemed to always find a way to place blame on his girlfriend or at least divert the attention away from his wrongdoings. Instead of admitting his mistakes he chose to toy with the emotions of his partner, creating a bigger wedge between them. “[He was] stressing her out,” Beckman said. “He [was] making her feel bad, making her feel like she did something wrong when she didn’t.” While talking to someone about their relationship may seem like a difficult task to some, it can make all the difference. When doing so, one should try to avoid accusations and a negative tone. Both of those things can cause the person being confronted to feel as if they are being attacked, and they might shut down because of it. Instead, asking questions delicately can help to create a calm, supportive environment. Keep in mind that confrontation doesn’t always work out as planned. Some people cannot see the relationship as toxic until they are ready, no matter what tactics one uses to try and convince them.

RELATIONSHIPS

sometimes the things that hurt us most are our friends, families and Partners.

emotions in the face of their partner, distracting from the problem at hand.

SEEKING THE TRUTH IN TOXIC

toxicity is everyWhere;

“The sad thing is [another friend and I] had a sit down with her,” Beckman said. “She honestly does not believe he’s done anything wrong.” One solution to all these issues is leaving the relationship. Relationships can end in just a few words; numbers can be blocked and people never have to talk again. However, this isn’t always plausible. Family members can be toxic; best friends can be toxic; people that are toxic can make it seem like there is no way out. In all of those cases, calling it quits doesn’t feel like an option. Hearing the sad truth behind how someone is being treated may be the only possible wake up call in some situations. While relationships are crucial to how people interact, it is important to be able to recognize relationships that are less than ideal. Whether it be a friend, family member or romantic partner, staying in toxic relationships is detrimental to one’s health and mental well being.

| 19

M A E R

LIVING (AND DYING) THE

PoPular music may be more imPacted by death than Previously thought.

JACOB R LEITZA tom tom staff @jacobleitza

f someone were asked to picture a musician, most people would probably picture a rockstarâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;someone famous, living the dream and able to do whatever they wanted. Popular musicians have the unique job of connecting with what could be millions or billions of people, and they have a long-lasting impact on that audience, which may sound like the perfect life; however, based on a study by The Conversation, musicians have been proven to die up to 25 years earlier than the average person, and even after death, their legacy may carry on for decades. Death has a much greater impact on pop music than many people realize. A musicianâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s goal is to make music that can appeal to all; for a majority of musicians, making music to their preference and creating a connection with their audience is their main priority. As soon as they enter the industry, they are presented with a lifestyle that many simply cannot handle. The constant stress and repetitive nature of touring, repeating the same concert schedule in unfamiliar cities, forces many to embrace other methods of introducing something new into their lives.

20 | FEATURES | December 2018 | The Tom Tom

ACHS fine arts teacher and director of bands Jonathan Untch elaborates on the reasons behind this pattern of behavior. “They get into this routine of monotony,” Untch said. “These people happen to do this job where they’re paid more money than they know what to do with, and there’s people around that allow them to get into substance abuse and everything like that… and they’re still praised for it. So, it’s almost like there’s a culture in popular music, rewarding bad behavior, or dangerous behavior.” This use of dangerous behavior to break the repetitive nature of a musician’s life can lead to an increase in mortality rates for musicians. According to a study done by The Conversation, when compared to the general U.S. population, accidental death rates, including accidental overdose, were between five and ten times greater for musicians. Suicide rates were between two and seven times greater, and homicide rates were up to eight times greater. Those living the fast-paced lifestyle associated with newer genres like rock and rap have a good chance of this lifestyle catching up to them, and as a result, many die young. It has been seen time and time again: Jimi Hendrix, Kurt Cobain, Amy Winehouse, XXXTentacion and more all died at young ages due to the danger surrounding the profession. Surprisingly, those musicians who have lived longer, such as those from more traditional genres like gospel, actually die from the same causes that the average person dies from: heart disease, cancer and other causes associated with aging. It’s not just a coincidence that rock stars or rappers have an increased death rate; it’s directly tied to their dangerous activities.

The death of a favorite artist may be sad, heartbreaking even, and those emotions, multiplied by the artist’s entire audience, actually has the possibility to create a massive response from the public. After an artist dies, an interesting phenomenon occurs. Those that are already fans of the artist purchase any music they feel they may have missed, while new publicity from the death leads to a new audience that buys music seeking to experience the best that artist had to offer. Why is this? According to a 2014 research paper by university professors Leif Brandes, Stephan Nuesch and Egon Franck, after the loss of an individual they deem important, people exhibit attachment behavior. In this behavior, those affected by the death will buy things related to the deceased in order to rebuild personal security. They also are reminded of their own mortality; this in turn cause people to experience nostalgia, which causes them to purchase music and have a more positive image of the artist.

This psychological response leads to a statistical change: after their death, on average, an artist experiences a 54 percent increase in their weekly album sales, and more people tend to focus on the positive qualities of the artist, no matter how much controversy they may have been tied to in life. Due to this increase in publicity following their death, more people are introduced and influenced towards the lifestyle of these artists; no matter how dangerous it may be, many people look past that and still find it desirable. On the other hand, it has the opposite impact on those already in the industry living that lifestyle. “I think it actually works both ways,” Untch said. “Slash from Guns N’ Roses talks about how he used to drink an entire bottle of Jack Daniels before anything the band would do, and in photoshoots he’d be so drunk... they would literally prop him up and hold him in place for a photoshoot, and they put sunglasses on him so you can’t tell that he was completely passed out. But now, after 20 years of that lifestyle, he’s gotten away from that because he’s realized that it’s going to kill him eventually, and he’s seen his friends go.” Besides serving as an influence to society, an artist’s death also has a pretty obvious effect on the family and dependents of that artist. Other than the emotional impact, it also takes away one of the major sources of income for many of these families. Due to this change in income, and the increased popularity of the artist, it is common for albums or songs to be released following the artist’s death. While this is a common practice, it is also a controversial one. Since the artist is no longer alive to decide whether or not to release this, sometimes unfinished music, many believe that it is doing a disservice to the artist. At the same time, many people also believe it is providing a service to the fans by

giving them the new music they crave. One of the major effects that posthumous releases can have on artists is changing the effect of that artist’s music. “The more recent albums after they died, it was actually still audio clips of them when they were in their prime, still making music,” Sazian said. “But if you release an album two decades after an artist dies, it’s not going to be something new. It’s going to be just reused clips, re-edited clips and I definitely think that it takes a toll on their legacy.” While it is up for debate whether the posthumous release of music is ethical, or even fair to the music the artist released during their lifetime, it is ultimately up to the artist’s estate whether that music should be released or not. What these estates may not realize is just truly how much the release could affect the image of the artist, just as people may not realize just how much of an impact death has on the music industry as a whole.

| 21

chilled to the core Mom always said to put a

jacket on once the leaves start changing and the snowflakes stick to the ground, but why does the body need to cover up?

EMILY A. HIGGINS junior editor @emilyhiiggiiins

he dreaded months between December and February seem to last a lifetime due to the freezing temperatures, resulting in cabin fever and long lasting sickness. Many people believe that winter starts when the temperature drops below 32 degrees and snowflakes start to fall, but mother nature starts to prepare in mid October; before the weather transitions from fall leaves to crispy snow. The feeling of being cold on the outside is different than what is happening inside of the body’s core.

EMBRACING THE CHILL How cold it is and how cold one feels are not as closely related as one could imagine. While uncontrollable shivering is under the influence of the mind and indicates a fall in the core temperature, the feeling of cold is not a great indicator. Extreme cold can make the body lose heat more quickly than it can be produced, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; it can even happen at warmer temperatures above 40 degrees fahrenheit, especially from sweat, rain or being in cold water. Many students feel their body changing as the fall leaves hit the ground. Mother nature’s barometric pressure fluctuates with every season and can cause bodies to change as well. The changes in barometric pressure that accompany storms and shifts in weather patterns can affect the body, and many people are more sensitive to these effects than others.

22 | FEATURES | December 2018 | The Tom Tom

“My body starts to change the most when the days get shorter and the temperature starts to drop, right around the time change,” junior Matthew Bohn said. “I can tell when the pressure starts to drop because I always get headaches.” The pressure changes are followed by temperatures dropping and snow faliing to the ground. This introduces the infamous cold and flu seasons inside schools, while going out in the cold doesn’t make one sick, cold does have an effect on the immune system. According to Harvard Medical School, it may have to do with viruses thriving and lasting longer in colder temperatures and the already weakened immune system. Sophomore Savannah Payonk suffers from winter illnesses every year once the cold starts to settle in. “I tend to get sick around the holidays,” Payonk said. “The winter sicknesses are always worse because I have to walk around in the cold and it makes it tougher to breathe when I’m not sick, especially with my asthma.” While being outdoors in any climate can pose an asthma risk, the cold, dry air increases the risk during the winter months. For many people with asthma, just stepping outside in cold temperatures can cause coughing, wheezing and an increase of pressure in the chest. In the cold, the body pushes more blood into the core to keep the heart, lungs and internal organs warm instead of external body parts like hands and feet in order to prevent hypothermia, when the body’s temperature decreases. The lack of circulation and blood in the extremities is the process called peripheral vasoconstriction, it occurs in uncovered areas like fingers, cheeks, nose and ears, which are the most prone to frostbite. “I know it’s time to go inside when I can’t feel my hands and feet anymore,” Bohn said. “I try to limit myself to two or three hours outside at one time; otherwise, it’s hard to get warm once I’m inside.”

RUNNING WITH THE WIND Athletes whose seasons start off in warmer months and end in winter months can experience the effects of the cold. Not only does the barometric pressure play into sickness, but also in joints and muscles. Cold weather causes muscles to lose heat and contract, which is what causes tightness in the body as athletes run and play in freezing temperature. The joints tend to get tighter, nerves have potential to get pinched and in turn the muscles can begin to lose their range of motion. Junior Jackson Devaughn is a

football player, and notices how different his body feels during the season change.

“I feel that it’s most important to keep the majority of your body warm as it will carry throughout the parts you can’t over as easily,” Bohn said. “In addition, I like to stick hand warmers in my gloves and shoes because I find that my feet are the part of my body that gets cold the quickest.”

“My joints feel very tight and frigid compared to summer, where they feel loose and ready to go,” Devaughn said. In cold weather, soft tissue tends to lose elasticity, increasing the possibility of muscle and tendon injuries. Warming up and staying loose is a priority to avoid injury. It is important for athletes who are on the sidelines and not playing, to keep their bodies moving and warm. “Generally speaking, we can see a decrease in performance when it gets colder,” athletic trainer Bryn Nottoli said. “Athlete performance is specific to how athletes get warmed up and how well they stay warmed up in cold weather. Some of the disadvantages can be with the weather and resting periods, we can see play decrease with the cold weather as the resting becomes more frequent [in the game].”

The first layer should be something that absorbs moisture, like dri-FIT. Cotton shirts and sweatshirts retain water and cling to the body, and keep it colder. The second layer should be thermal to hold in the heat being generated. Outer layers should consist of something lightweight and easy to take off to block the wind. If spectators or athletes start with too many layers of cold weather gear, overheating occurs and sweat ruins the body’s core temperature faster than normal. Once the feeling of cold and wet occurs, it’s hard to get warm again. Many students disregard the cold weather even before the snowflakes hit the ground. Extreme weather can have a tremendous impact on the body itself. Make it a point to look at the weather ahead of time before running out the door in just a sweatshirt. Be sure to cover up and know and take precautions when getting in the holiday cheer and going out for winter festivities.

5 Top To stay warm in the resting periods in a game, many athletes turn to multiple layers in order to keep their level of play consistent. The moisture in the air and what the body will produce is the key to being cold for out sports in colder months.

We rank the top five myths of the cold.

COLD BRINGS SICKNESS Some researchers say cold viruses replicate better in cold weather, leading to more chances to get sick from others, rather than the weather itself.

HEAT IS LOST FROM THE HEAD The head is considered another extremity, but has the largest surface area for heat to be lost.

THERE IS NO REASON TO DRINK WATER Dehydration in snow happens just as fast as you can in the desert, but thirst is not recognised in the cold.

COLD WEATHER MAKES YOU “SAD” Although many people experience Seasonal Affective Disorder, it is due to the lack of sunlight rather than the cold.

YOU DON’T NEED SUNGLASSES IN THE WINTER Although the sun is less intense in areas, there are still enough rays to damage the bare eye.

| 23

(UN) TRADITIONAL Lasting generation to generation,

traditions always come back to the importance of family.

JULIA C. HACKELOER tom tom staff @juliaackeloer

amily traditions and rituals offer people an escape from the chaos of everyday life, and a chance to remember the little things that create beautiful memories which last a lifetime. Even though some people know exactly what their beliefs are, for others it’s hard to be completely confident about what they do or do not believe in. “A number of events occured in my life that made me search for answers in my faith,” Sarah Blink Polakow said. “But rather than feeling close to my community and faith, I felt further away.” Growing up, Polakow was raised as a Methodist: a Protestant denomination originating in the 18th-century evengalistic movement of Charles and John Wesley, as well as George Whitefield. Polakow and her family attended church every Sunday, and she was confirmed at age 13. However, events within Polakow’s life had her wondering if she was ever truly aligned with Methodism. “Some of my best friends in college were Jewish, and I was fortunate enough to learn quite a bit about their traditions and beliefs; something felt familiar,” Polakow said. As Polakow transitioned out of college, her close friends introduced her to Judaism and taught her about their traditions and rituals, where she instantly felt a connection. “When I was dating my husband, his family included me in all their family traditions, including attending holiday services,” Polakow said. “I knew I wanted to incorporate Judaism into my personal life.” Polakow had finally found what she was looking for: a faith that she felt she belonged. Now, Polakow and her husband celebrate Hanukkah by incorporating traditions into the chaos of their daily lives.

24 | FEATURES | December 2018 | The Tom Tom

“Our traditions include opening small presents each night, lighting the menorah and singing prayers,” Polakow said. During the holiday season, Polakow and her family are able to follow the traditions and rituals that are special to them, and they always make time to reconnect with each other. “It is a good reminder for all of us to take time out from all the chaos and schedules and remember how important family is,” Polakow said. Family plays a big role in Polakow’s life; now that she is married, she’s able to learn about new traditions from her husband’s family. Along the way, they also get to celebrate new traditions that are special to their relationship. “Recently, we have added a new tradition, which is an apple stuffed star challah,” Polakow said. “We make extra apple star challah and take them to our Jewish neighbors to wish them a sweet new year.” These traditions have allowed Polakow to experiment with new food recipes and share them with the people whom she cares about. Polakow’s conversion to Judaism has added many new and wonderful aspects to her personal and family life. “Our family has a very wide spectrum of observance and personal connection to religion,” Polakow said. “But it’s the tradition of sharing meals, lighting candles and celebrating holidays, such as Passover and Hanukkah, that brings all of us together multiple times a year and keeps us connected.” Through the holidays, traditions are not only developed with family, but they are also followed within many religious communities. “We celebrate Simbang Gabi; it is around Christmas time, and it translates to ‘night mass,’ which is a Filipino tradition,” freshman Ravyn Edran said. “It is a Novena; so, it is celebrated for nine days leading up to Christmas.” After Edran and her family attend night mass, they share food and enjoy each other’s company in celebration. This holiday brings the Filipino community together as if they are all one big family. “It’s special to the Philippines, and it brings back sentimental feelings and good memories,” Edran said. “I think the music is one of my favorite parts because it’s different, but it is really happy and lively.” The church that Edran and her family attend has a live Filippino choir that sings traditional songs to the churchgoers. Although Edran and her family cannot make it all the way to the Philippines to be with their extended family, they make an effort to bring the Filippino traditions and celebrations to their home and community. Along with the special event of Simbang Gabi, Edran makes bunso, a type of Filipino bread, and lumpia, Filipino egg rolls, with her parents who learned to make these dishes from their own parents while growing up in the Philippines. “I want to continue to do this with my family because it is very heartwarming, and it kind of feels like extended family because the community is so friendly and happy,” Edran said. Edran hopes to continue these traditions when she starts a family of her own because of how special the celebration is to her and her family. Some

people are known to only celebrate one cultural tradition, but it is also common for a family to follow multiple religions and celebrate more than one holiday. “On my mom’s side, we celebrate Christmas, and I have done that ever since I was little,” sophomore Madelyn Welbel said. “But at my dad’s house, we celebrate Hanukkah.” Although Welbel celebrates Hanukkah with her dad now, she still celebrates some of her old traditions that she made when she was young and celebrated Christmas with both of her parents. “When I was little, I used to wear the yamakas, and it’s a fun memory that I have,” Welbel said. “I used to teach at my elementary school when I was in fourth grade, and I would teach little kids about it.” Welbel had the opportunity to teach younger kids about her religion and what she celebrates. She told stories from her own family’s traditions to younger kids, so they would be able to learn about a religion different from their own. “They loved it because most people celebrate Christmas, so it’s new for them, and it’s fun to hear all of the different stories,” Welbel said. Since it is common for the majority of people to Avery Krizanovic celebrate the traditions of Christmas, most of the kids were exposed to new traditions from a different religion. Welbel shares a tradition with her family in which they spend time opening gifts, playing games and enjoying each other’s humor. “It is important to show them that there are differences,” Welbel said. “I come from a very special family, so I think it is definitely important for them to learn about Christmas and Hanukkah.” The importance of one knowing and accepting differences and backgrounds of other people truly shows the importance of community. The holidays are not just about the physical gifts one receives; the holidays are about receiving the gift of family and that is what makes the holidays so special.

“IT IS SPECIAL TO THE PHILLIPINES AND BRINGS BACK SENTIMENTAL FEELINGS AND GOOD MEMORIES.” FRESHMAN // RAVYN EDRAN

| 25

Want to Sponsor the

Sponsorship Levels WHITE/$50 GRAY/$125 CARDINAL/$200 BLACK/$300 DIAMOND/(NAME YOUR PRICE) Contact Information The Tom Tom Antioch Community High School 1133 Main Street Antoch, Ill. 60002 Phone: 847-395-1421 Editor-in-Chief: Emily Torres e-mail: emily.torres@chsd117.org Media Adviser: Mr. Patrick R. Johnson, MJE e-mail: patrick.johnson@chsd117.org

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS

DIAMOND State Bank of the Lakes CARDINAL Command Service Center, Inc.

26 | SPORTS | December 2018 | The Tom Tom

SPORTS SNAPSHOT CHEER TAKES SIXTH IN OPENING COMPETITION The varsity cheer team travelled to Rolling Meadows High School to compete in their first competition of the season. After two weeks of reworking the routine because of four injured athletes, the team quickly pulled something together with the remaining ten athletes they had. The routine overall was strong and scored well, but because of two stunt falls, the day ended with a sixth place finish out of 19. “The warm up was super strong and we were really excited to go out and debut our routine,” junior Jadda Pope said. “We just struggled with executing the stunts which is why we dropped down to sixth place.” The junior varsity team placed third, ahead of all other NLCC teams competing. Jessica Nettgen

AVERY J. FRASCH

GIRLS BASKETBALL HOPING FOR MORE WINS IN SECOND HALF OF SEASON

GYMNASTICS SEARCHING TO MAKE A NAME FOR THEMSELVES IN D117

The girls varsity bowling team has started their winter season off strong as they are 2-0 in conference and 3-0 overall.

The girls basketball team started their season with a slow start, losing their first two tournaments in Vernon Hills. Since then, they stand at a record of 1-10 with their only win being against North Chicago. Head coach Tim Borries has led the team through the choppy beginning of the season and has faith that they will find their rhythm after their loss to Lakes.

The girls gymnastics team has started the season off 0-4, coming in 7th out of 8th place for the Dekalb meet But coming to a couple nail biters in the other 3 meets, losing only by single digits. Returning gymnast Ally Olsen, is still very hopeful for the season and is not going to let this slow start get to her and her team’s head.

So far this season, the girls have competed in three tournaments where they placed in the top ten in each. In one of their most successful tournaments, the varsity team placed ninth out of 44 teams. The team has also played in three invitationals in which they won 9-0 against Round Lake, North Chicago and Waukeagan. Because their season has been extremely successful so far, the girls are looking forward to making this season one of the best and advancing to the state finals. Last season the team made it to day two of the state tournament. AVERY J. FRASCH

“Even though the Sequoits lost [their game against Lakes], they played one of their best games of the season,” Borries said. A couple of bad games won’t determine the rest of the season; with hard work and team chemistry, the girls still have a chance to turn their record around. EVAN M. DAY

“We’re going to get over this hump,” said Olsen. “We practice to win and that’s not going to change”. This team has gone through adversity but will soon shine and show us their true potential. ADRAIN RUIZ

| 27

28 | SPORTS | December 2018 | The Tom Tom

SNAPSHOT BOYS BASKETBALL LOOKING TOWARD POST SEASON SUCCESS Off to one of their best starts in the last few years, the boys basketball team is 7-2 with losses against North Chicago and Westosha Central. Their offense, led by seniors Daniel Filippone, Jack Gillespie and Austin Andrews, has been scoring consistently over 50 points in every game, and only two occasions where they haven’t scored more than 60. Despite the recent successes, the team still knows there is room to grow. “The season has gone well so far, but there is room for improvement,” senior Jack Gillespie said. “The key to our success is just playing as a team instead of as individuals.” With so much of the season left to play, the Sequoits have a lot more to learn. This past Saturday alone was a test to that in a nailbiting double overtime against rival Grant Community High School. The Sequoits came out with the win in part to last minute steal by senior Benjamin Nauman. Jessica Nettgen

JOSEPH R. WHITTALL

| 29

30 | SPORTS | December 2018 | The Tom Tom

SNAPSHOT WRESTLING PACKS THE PLACE IN HONOR OF THEIR TEACHERS This past Friday, the Sequoits held their annual Pack the Place event that encourages all winter athletes, families and staff to attend. This year Antioch took on rival Grant Community High School under a spotlight. The event began with both the freshmen and JV teams competing, followed by a ceremony celebrating teacher appreciation and the area feeder programs: the Lakeland Predators and Antioch Upper Grade School. The varsity wrestling team has started their season off 9-3. The boys are hopeful to send multiple wrestlers to state this year just like last season. Junior captain Alexander Barbarise is someone who has stood out so far this season. “So far on the season we have a different mindset than last year,” said Barbarise. “We were a lot more focused and we have a lot more and way bigger goals this season.” Jessica Nettgen

ADRIAN RUIZ

| 31

32 | SPORTS | December 2018 | The Tom Tom

SNAPSHOT DANCE SEEKS REDEMPTION AFTER SECOND PLACE FINISH LAST WEEK After failing to make the podium at state last year, the varsity dance team is ready for redemption. With only one senior graduating, the team had very few changes in their set up for their competition routine. In their first competition of the season, the Sequoits placed first in AA at the Mundelein Invitation. In their second competition of the season at Stevenson, the team placed 2nd behind Deerfield. Senior Alexis Yaris sees success the rest of the season. “We have so much potential, and we can possibly podium this year or maybe win state,” Yaris said. “If we continue our hard work, our season can be one of the best seasons Antioch has ever seen.” Valerie Rosek

JOSEPH M. KESTIAN

| 33

WHAT IT FEELS LIKE TO

NOT SEE YOURSELF IN THE STARS BY ANONYMOUS AS TOLD TO MOLLIE WAGNER

have never believed in constellations; I didn’t dwell on the stars that wiggled into galaxies and I didn’t sit awake pondering on the prophecy that aligned the stars the night I sat alongside the moon. I never believed in constellations until I built them out of the couches I slept on during nights I was stuck with the stars, like tonight. Resting my body in the bed of blankets crammed in the trunk of my car, I remember earlier this evening finding beauty in the sunset and dancing in the sky of purple and blue, with the same feet I used to walk out of my house, with the echoes of “you’re not good enough” ringing in my ear— leaving me vulnerable and slapping myself in the face. I have always found a guardian in music, so as I drove my tired teenage body into downtown Chicago, I cleared my tears with the hum of a song. I passed familiar buildings and matched them with faces I will most likely never see again, but wondered where they were in that moment. Could anyone hear my song? My thoughts? I shook my head, readjusted my hands and continued down the narrow highway. I pull into the diner parking lot where my brothers and I shared strawberry milkshakes to get out of the house when mom and dad would be at each other’s throats. I trace the skyscrapers with my index finger, counting each corner, memorizing their names and recognizing the buildings I traced prior. I drove past my old home today—it tugged at my heart: seeing another family so happy with my old walls of comfort, where so many memories and embraces took place. I admired that last sunset—it reminded me of home and as the sky became a deep blue, the milky way in the little town that I now call home seemed so unfamiliar compared to the galaxies that swim in this big city. As my mother’s car sputtered to a stop in the driveway, I could hear her car door violently shut from inside the kitchen. I jumped from the couch and turned the burner off on the stove, the table already set, I took my place. She walked in and let out a large exhale, running her hands through her hair and covering her eyes. The silence

throughout the house made the gush of wind trailing behind her cold; she finally looked across the room at me, drained. Her deep set eyes were unrecognizable, they hide behind her eye bags that cried her to sleep. I finally get one-on-one time with my mom before my dad gets home, which is very rare. I ramble on about my minuscule girl problems that seem small compared to an adult with struggles bigger than the moon, but she keeps an interested look in the small glances she flashes my way in between bites. It’s hard to bond with my mom because she works so much, but I try my best to make the most out of the little time I get with her come nightfall, which is why I do all of the cooking and cleaning around the house—to at least take a little off of her daily plate. The calmest part of my day is when my mom comes home. That also means I have to start preparing myself for my father to walk in the door, which can either be pleasant or far from it. The house is very still in his presence. You can see the tension wrestling in his broad shoulders and the tired look in his eyes—both of my parents long for more sleep. Maybe more sleep would improve their moods and ease the anger—there is so much anger. I never really faced the wrath of my father until my childhood grew into the life of a teenager. I knew of the hardships that were placed upon him his whole life; I gladly roll with the punches to make him feel better. I anticipate the fight sometimes, knowing his built up aggression lingering behind the grit in his teeth will burst the very minute he sees the dishes in the sink unwashed for the first time in three weeks or finds my brother’s socks at the bottom of the stairs again. So I continue on with my mother, careful to leave out several details of my day; I feel comfortable sharing a lot with her but not everything. I think it’s better for the both of us that way. The engine in my father’s car roars to a stop and he waltzes into the kitchen to greet my mother and me. The way his whole body droops down showcases that his day wasn’t the greatest. Now starts the anticipation.

34 | PERSPECTIVES | December 2018 | The Tom Tom

He begins mumbling words to my mother and I begin dragging my fork along my plate, retracing the steps I did in the front lawn as I tried to mimic the sunset’s beauty. I took my leftover peas and made them into a circle around the edge of my plate. I began counting them, like steps. I forgot about the two adults sitting in front of me; I look up and catch the cold stare coming from my father towards me. He looks upset, angry. I have his nose. I turn to look at my mother, a tear falls down her striking cheekbones. I am told to leave I am told to be anywhere but in his house. I feel anxious, but unamused. The cold car keys soothe my sweaty hands as I start the engine of my car. The day of the week will depend on my residence for that day. I don’t dare bother my friends on a school night, so I simply rely on the city to keep me company for the evening. During my drive, I think about my mother. I think about the coat of misery she wraps around us all like a thick, black cloak. I hope one day to take it off and step out of the shadows I have so heavily been darkened by in silence. I dream of being great. Considering the lack of belief I have read on the faces of those who so easily gave up on me, it’s not going to be easy. I’m hoping one day it won’t require an explanation for them or an argument with them to reach for the stars. I walk into the poorly lit diner and sit on the worn down barstool—my brother’s spot. The cashier smiles as she walks into the kitchen, letting the door swing shut behind her. I am not alone, the big windows allow the night sky to join me as a strawberry milkshake slides across the counter. I sip slowly and watch the cherry sink to the bottom. Tears well-up in my eyes as my phone lights up with a familiar ring: my mother. I lay a five dollar bill beneath the bottom of the glass and push through the swivel door, waving to the cashier. I answer her call; my chest tightens. She makes me promise to be safe—not asking my whereabouts.

My cheeks feel hot as I remove the phone from my ear and hang up on the woman who raised me to be me. I climb to the trunk and bring my journal with me, putting my travel-size flashlight between my teeth. Maybe one day among the bruised pages, I will build a boat out of the doors that have hit me in the face and sail down the river of tears that I have let slip and fall onto city streets. I will learn to carve a home out of my body and hopefully one day find it beautiful, too, like the sunset. I will rhyme melodies with the abuse and sleep in the bed of blankets crammed in the trunk of my car. This beautiful, beautiful bed that has been built with so many layers and seen so many sides of me. This exquisite bed that knows me better than my parents. This perfectly imperfect bed that allows me to sit with the stars at night, building constellations out of the couches Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve slept on. I will be great... one day.

| 35

Valerie Rosek

SEQUOITMEDIA.COM

DAILY

UPDATES ONLINE, SOCIAL MEDIA

SPORTS NEWS LIFESTYLES YOUR SEQUOIT STORY STARTS HERE