Devils' Advocate January & February 2021

January-February 2021

THE EMPTY BLEACHERS P. 16 MEDIA, MUSIC, AND MATINEES P. 13

HINSDALE CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL | VOLUME 97 novcover.indd 215792 Devils Advocate 1 Jan_Feb 2021.indd 1

2/23/21 10:01 2/26/21 12:06 AM PM

DEVILS’ ADVOCATE MISSION STATEMENT Devils’ Advocate seeks to provide an open and diverse forum created by and for students from Hinsdale Central. The staff of Devils’ Advocate aims to bring news to the community of the school and surrounding area, by working with students, parents, and faculty, as well as reporting on events in a fair and balanced manner. The publication strives to inform, educate, and improve, the atmoshpere and students body by sharing information and recognizing and ideas.

Editor-in-Chief Hari Rao Head of Design Kritin Shanmugam Managing Editors Nathaniel Bittner Ailish Lyman Copy Editors Caroline Cubbin Lainey Harvey Head of Photography Sofija Buzelis Section Editors Rania Arain Loukas Bezanis Nadia Burt Grace Erwin Killian Hughes Cedra Jazayerli Christine Leung Andrew Merz Grant Micaletti Grace Myall John Olsen Jameson Peculinas Ricky Sahgal Lucas Salvatore Mara Severts Jessie Wang Contributors Noor Myran — Battleground Mikhail Essa — Battleground Rana Dubauskas — Daily Devil Hanna Florence — Daily Devil

CONTENTS 04 08 10 13 AROUND CAMPUS 04 DAILY DEVIL

05 REMEMBERING KENDALL PICKERING 06 HOT TOPICS

BY THE NUMBERS

08 LOVE AND PANDEMICS

PROFILES

10 THE DEVILS’ DEPARTED

FEATURES

13 MEDIA, MUSIC, AND MATINEES 16 THE EMPTY BLEACHERS

21 PHOTO FEATURE: EYE OF THE DEVIL

22

PERSPECTIVES 22 UNSOLICITED ADVICE 24 HOW TO: 25 ASK AN ATHLETE

26 RED DEVIL REDUX 28 BATTLEGROUND

30 STAFF EDITORIAL

2 | Contents

toc2.inddDevils 215792 2 Advocate Jan_Feb 2021.indd 2

2/24/21 10:01 2/26/21 11:38 AM PM

Cover photo by Nathaniel Bittner

Cover and TOC designed by Kritin Shanmugam TOC photos provided by by Kaitlyn Mirsch, Gevin Bailey, and Jamieson Peculinas

16

10

13

LETTER FROM THE [EDITOR] It’s the beginning of the new year, and time to leave 2020 behind. However, we can’t entirely forget the impact it has had on our lives. In fact, much of the impact from 2020 will continue into the new year, and we felt it was important to highlight those. In our feature, “Media, Music, and Matinees,” we take a look at our arts students and how the Coronavirus impacted aspects from class to college applications. “The Empty Bleachers” analyzes how sports and recruitment have changed and impacted the way many sports seasons look. Our sole profile, “The Devils’ Departed,” highlights a few students who decided to graduate a semester early and their plans over the semester. Our infographic “Love and Pandemics” looks at how our students spent Valentine’s Day, but during a pandemic.

In the spirit of an untraditional winter, the photo feature “Eye of the Devil” captures our community out in the many inches of snow, while our “Daily Devil” talks the nature of these snow days during COVID in detail.

One of our columnists documents her New Year’s resolution of going vegan in her latest “How to” column.

And our “Hot Topics” spread looks at what’s trending around Central.

In regards to the tragic news that arrived to us in December, we remember sophomore Kendall Pickering, an amazing and dearly loved member of our community. We offer our condolences to those close to her and our community, staying strong together in light of the news.

Ask an Athlete highlights senior Quinn Cain who plays basketball, while “Hinsdale Central Girls’ Lacrosse 2018: Retold” looks at Central girls’ road to the state championship. Our Battleground for this month looks at both sides of the debate of big-tech censorship. And our editorial this month denounces the Capitol riots and advocates against sympathizing with the Jan. 6 protest. We hope you enjoy this month’s issue.

CONTACT ADVISER, CHERISE LOPEZ CLOPEZ@HINSDALE86..ORG 630.570.8361

toc2.inddDevils 215792 3 Advocate Jan_Feb 2021.indd 3

HARI RAO Contents | 3

2/24/21 10:01 2/26/21 11:38 AM PM

Daily Devil Snow Days: COVID-19 Edition Central students share their thoughts on recent snow days

by Rana Dubauskas and Hanna Florence

O

Usually, switching to a snow day is difficult for teachers, as it messes up the curriculum and plans for that day. This year it wasn’t an issue as teachers have been engaging in the hybrid model with most lessons online.

Teachers were able to continue with their regularly-scheduled plans, from their homes.

For students, this snow day was different as well. When people think of snow days, they often think of watching movies with hot chocolate, going sledding with their friends, and not worrying about school; this year, that changed.

“It was pretty similar to a normal day of remote learning, except I didn’t really get the chance to enjoy the snow like I have

photo by Hanna Florence

n Jan. 26 and Feb. 16, Chicago got hit with more than ten inches of snow each day. Due to the dangerous, icy roads and inadequate conditions, District 86 decided to make school fully remote.

Just last year, the school decided to try implementing remote learning days in the case of emergencies like this snow day. With many schools around the United States operating in remote or hybrid learning due to COVID-19, many people are wondering, will there ever be a snow day again, or will we just have online days from now on?

With frigid temperatures and snow piling up on the road faster than the plows can shovel, a snow day was necessary.

for snow days in the past,” said Gabrielle Becka, junior.

Since students continued to engage in remote learning and school, it was difficult to experience the same joys of a snow day from their childhood.

While others would rather not make up the school later in the summer, Anna Amine, junior, said, “I don’t think we will ever have another traditional snow day again because now we have the resources to do school from home...I actually really enjoy this because then I don’t have to make up school in the summer.”

Many clubs meet online through Zoom.

In the past, during snow days, all clubs and activities were cancelled. Now, many clubs were still meeting on this snow day through Zoom. It allows for teams to continue their practice and activities to continue their events without any interruption in their schedules.

For most students, they said that while the environment of school is changing, it might be changing for the better. Having snow days inside in front of the screen may not be the worst, as students will be able to enjoy the warm weather of the summer for a few extra days.

View of the seven inches of snow that Chicago experienced in late January.

4 | Around Campus

215792 Devils Advocate Jan_Feb 2021.indd 4

2/26/21 10:01 AM

In Remembrance Kendall Pickering

by Nathaniel Bittner

O

n Dec. 15, Hinsdale Central unexpectedly lost our own Kendall Pickering. The college recruit was across the country in North Carolina, visiting colleges where she could potentially take her swimming talents. Tragically, while driving from place to place, Kendall was involved in a car crash and lost her life.

With her birthday just recently passing on Feb. 16, the community once again came together to remember the beloved daughter, sister, student, swimmer and teammate. We dedicate this page to Kendalls memory and all that she meant to her family, her friends, and her community.

Kendall was known as an impressive competitor. When there was an opportunity to succeed both in the classroom and in the lanes, she took it and ran with it, getting good grades and even setting records for the Hinsdale Central Girls Varsity Swimming team.

Kendall set the standard for the 100 yard breaststroke with a stunning time of 1:03.44.

Some of Kendall’s closest friends from swimming and school put it best. She was described as a bubbly, light hearted, kind and loving person. She could always lift the spirits of others and help them see a bright side, even when she herself wasn’t having the best of days.

Her happiness spread like a

wildfire amongst her friends, she was always known to put others before herself, doing whatever she could to try and make someone else’s day just a little bit better. Heaving around a big heart, she was described to be bright as the sun, and loving as ever.

Some of Kendall’s best memories were made in the pool and within Central’s brick foundation. She loved vacations with her family and spending time with her sister.

On Feb. 16, what would have been her 16th birthday, friends noted a beautiful sunset full of color beaming down from the sky, a break in the consistent trend of cloudy winter days. The community

celebrated Kendall on this day, and those close to her say that this natural beauty was her way of saying she remembers us too. Rest in everlasting peace, Kendall Pickering.

On Campus | 5

Kendall Pickering 215792 Devils Advocate (2).inddJan_Feb 1 2021.indd 5

2/25/21 10:01 2/26/21 11:18 AM

HOT TOPICS

by Grace Erwin designed by Kritin Shanmugam

TV

MUSIC

Bridgerton

Released on December 25, 2020, Shonda Rhimes newest project “Bridgerton” combines Regency era drama with orchestral versions of modern day pop songs such as Taylor Swift’s “Wildest Dreams”.

The show follows eight high-profile siblings attempting to find love while balancing the stress of the mysterious “Lady Whistledown,” a gossip columnist rattling the city.

Driver’s License by Olivia Rodrigo

Up-and-coming Disney star Olivia Rodrigo released her first single “Driver’s License” on Jan 8. Fans believe that the song was about her fellow “High School Musical: The Musical: The Series” lead Joshua Bassett and his rumored new girlfriend Sabrina Carpenter, best known for her role in “Girl Meets World”.

Photo provided by Wikimedia

Photo provided by Flickr

FOODS

McDonald’s St. Patrick’s Day Menu One of the most popular and treasured items of the spring is Shamrock Shakes from McDonalds. This year, the beloved drink returned to restaurants across the nation on Feb. 15.

Although McDonalds has not yet given a specific date that they will be removed from menus, they usually stick around until a few days after St. Patrick’s Day. This treat is made with vanilla ice cream and mint extract, and topped with whipped cream and a cherry. It costs around $3 for a size small.

Photo provided by Flickr

6 | Around Campus

6-7(good).indd 215792 Devils Advocate 2 Jan_Feb 2021.indd 6

2/25/21 10:01 2/26/21 11:25 AM

FASHION Brown

This winter, the color brown has become extremely popular. From pants, to jackets, and even shoes, it’s become a staple in wardrobes around the world. One especially beloved piece is the basic brown leather pants. Paired with a crop top and puffer jacket, they can help make a trendy, essential winter 2021 outfit.

Photo provided by Pixy

Dark Sky Weather

Dark-Sky Weather is a $3.99 advanced weather app. It provides minute-by-minute details of weather in any selected area and is a great alternative to the default weather app on a device. This is especially useful given the current weather conditions. Having the ability to see how low the temperature may get or how much snow is coming our way can be a lifesaver.

Photo provided by Grace Erwin

APPS

EVENTS Singing Valentines

With the current school schedule, the Hinsdale Central choir department had to get creative with how they would execute singing valentines. So, they decided to split into groups and have each person record their part from home. Then, the students assembled a video combining all individual parts of the song. Teachers were then instructed to show one video per class period on Feb. 12 and Feb. 13, so all Central students could see each video.

Photo provided by Pixy

Around Campus | 7

6-7(good).indd 215792 Devils Advocate 3 Jan_Feb 2021.indd 7

2/25/21 10:01 2/26/21 11:25 AM

Do you plan to have a valentine this year?

Do you take par

36.8% NO 35.3% YES 27.9% HOPEFULLY

What is your ideal pandemic Valentine’s date?

“Nice candlelight dinner in Chicago, along the river at night.”

Love An Pandemi designed by Kritin Shanmugam illustrations by Mara Severts (68 Responses)

“Someone gets me chocolate.”

“Ice skating with masks.“

8 | By The Numbers

valentino.indd 215792 Devils Advocate 2 Jan_Feb 2021.indd 8

2/26/21 2/24/21 10:01 9:50 PM AM

you take part in Galentine’s Celebration?

60.6% NO 39.4% YES

ove And andemics

If you could send a singing valentine, what song would you choose?

ALL OF ME

(JOHN LENNON)

16.2%

LOVE STORY

(TAYLOR SWIFT)

16.2%

ADORE YOU

(HARRY STYLES)

22.1%

designed by Kritin Shanmugam illustrations by Mara Severts (68 Responses)

TRAP QUEEN JUST THE WAY YOU ARE

(FETTY WAP)

22.1%

(BRUNO MARS)

23.5%

By The Numbers | 9

valentino.indd 215792 Devils Advocate 3 Jan_Feb 2021.indd 9

2/26/21 2/24/21 10:01 9:50 PM AM

evils’ De p a D r e ted h T

Ear ly g r

adu

nts.

e stud l a r nt

ations provide an alternative ath for Ce p

by Jessie Wang and Killian Hughes designed by Rania Arain illustrated by Rania Arain 10 | Profiles

215792 Devils Advocate Jan_Feb 2021.indd 10

2/26/21 10:01 AM

U

nder the shimmering San Diego sun, Marco Grande feels sweat sliding down his jawline. He wants to wipe the beads away, but the Marine Drill Sergeant’s stony face and boiling temper convince him otherwise. Instead, despite his stiff muscles and drooping eyelids, Grande maintains a ramrod posture and keeps his gaze locked forward.

Although he hasn’t left for boot camp yet, Grande imagines that it will be a tough yet rewarding experience. While his peers are still in school, Grande will spend this spring a bit differently.

This March, Grande decided he wants to push himself by graduating early.

For most Central seniors, the month of May marks the end of their high school experience as they walk in front of the principal, receive their diplomas, and join a sea of red cloth and smiling faces.

However, some students, like Grande, conclude their time at 55th and Grant a bit earlier, before all the snow has melted.

Seniors Marco Grande, Kaitlyn Mrksich, and Mia Thompson all have chosen to graduate early and pursue their respective passions. Boot camp, a research lab, and the ocean each called these seniors to join 2021’s small cohort of early Central graduates, an option which allows Red Devils to seek out new opportunities while their peers remain inside the classroom.

Since he was four years old, Grande has known that he wanted to pursue a career in the military. Along with the call to support his country, he said that his urge to join the armed forces has sprung from a family legacy of service.

“My grandpa fought in World War Two, my uncle in Vietnam, and my cousin was in Iran,” Grande said. “And I just thought, if they’re doing it, I’ve got to do it too.”

Although he is not certain exactly what his Marine Corps future will bring, he has committed to attend boot camp. In March of this year, Grande will fly west to San Diego for 15 weeks of basic training, including two weeks of hotel room quarantine, to become a machine gunner.

“During the day, you go on hikes, you go in the pool to do training, [and] you do runs,” Grande said. “You get tased once or twice, and go into a gas chamber, and that’s about it.”

After his training, Grande will begin classes at Loyola University in Chicago while simultaneously undergoing training in the reserves. He said that

“I feel really comfortable going to [undergraduate programs] at any school … [I’m] confident that I have the tools to succeed.”

-Kaitlyn Mrksich

even though the northbound weekend excursions will take up time, it differs from an ROTC experience, since his on campus will be completely normal.

“The training won’t get in the way of school at all, which is good,” Grande said. “The school gives extra scholarships and grants to military members, which is really nice.”

Grande acknowledged that there were several options in front of him, with varying levels of financial support.

Although he was offered a full scholarship in exchange for a more immersive military experience, he chose to participate as a reserve instead because he desired a true college experience.

Another choice that Grande had to make was which branch of the military he would pursue. The Army, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, and Marines all have programs targeted to college students, each with a separate allure.

“I wanted to join the Army when I was younger,” Grande explained.

“But doing more research, I [was drawn to] the Marine Corps.”

According to Grande, when it came to graduating early, the process was fairly easy.

He had already decided to join the reserves, and was happy to see that he was eligible.

“I found out that I was graduating early the day before it happened. My mom just came and said ‘hey, I just talked to your counselor. If you want to graduate early, go for it,’” Grande said.

For Kaitlyn Mrksich, who graduated in December of 2020, the idea to graduate early was planted much earlier.

Since freshman year, she had taken the maximum number of science classes she could. However, her zeal started to push Central’s limits senior year.

“I have always been a science and math kid. So, the process started last year when course registration came around,” Mrksich said. “I wasn’t really excited by a lot of the options, because I’d taken a lot of the classes I was interested in.”

When she asked the guidance department, she found out that there were a cadre of students who decided to

graduate early. What’s more, the number of students considering the option had expanded for the Class of 2021.

Once she had decided to join them, Mrksich noted that the process was quite easy. The only schedule change Mrksich made was front-loading her English classes to meet Central’s graduation requirements.

“At that point...I had to write down a few sentences about why I wanted to graduate early, get my parents to sign it, and then [Principal] Walsh [agreed to] sign it,” Mrksich said.

She had planned to spend her last semester on a trip abroad, but COVID-19 forced her to change her plans. Now, Mrksich has turned her immediate focus to helping out her community. She volunteers at People’s Resource Center four times a week, works on school board campaigns, and helps out with a kid’s ministry program at her church.

In April, Mrksich plans to return to doing research at Northwestern University. In previous summers, Mrksich interned as a nanotechnology research assistant, and she plans to return to the same lab to further her knowledge. “[We use] really tiny gold particles... called nanoparticles. They have shown a lot of potential in medical applications in chemistry and cell biology,” Mrksich said.

Mrksich has worked on two projects involving these gold nanoparticles. The unique properties of gold nanoparticles, such as a high surface area to volume ratio and chemical stability, make it a promising candidate for research.

“We engineered the nanoparticles through the tiny bits of gold to be able to go into cell levels with chemicals and drugs,” Mrksich said. “Early detection is a way that helps doctors treat disease.”

Profiles | 11

215792 Devils Advocate Jan_Feb 2021.indd 11

2/26/21 10:01 AM

The other project researched the experience for helping her discover her use of nanoparticles to target delivery interest in research. to cells, which has seen increasing “Going in, I was pretty sure that I specific applications.

Because of liked medicine and I just wanted to their small size, nanoparticles can be be a normal doctor. But then it was used for personalized drug delivery. really cool … to see what research was,” “This means that nanoparticles [are Mrksich said. “I like this idea of doing used] to deliver something directly to the both because you start in the lab, you do ribosome, or directly to the nucleus, as research, and then you can carry over opposed to just right into the cell. And that your innovations into the clinical side.” is… a pretty powerful tool,” Mrksich said.

Mrksich hopes to continue following When asked to reflect on her high this path for a while, and is happy to school experience, Mrksich said that have had the opportunities that the the Hinsdale Central STEM curriculum early graduation provided. She has been has greatly prepared her for the future. grateful for the service opportunities, “I feel really comfortable going both on a local and global level, that the to [undergraduate programs] at any decision has provided, and hopes this school … [I’m] confident that I have head start will help her down the road. the tools to succeed,” Mrksich said.

Down and under the vast Pacific While at Central, Mrksich took Ocean, Central graduate Mia Thompson three physics classes, two chemistry tells a similar story. After graduating in classes, one biology class, two calculus December, Thompson moved to Australia, classes, and two research classes. One where her family has lived for many periods of her favorite courses was AP Research of time throughout her life. She plans to because she had the opportunity attend University of New South Wales to pursue independent projects. when Australian college starts in January, “I did a synthetic biology project in but before she enrolls, she will go on an 80[that] class, [which] was really impactful day sailing expedition from Tahiti to Bali. because it was the first major research The trip, which is hosted by the project that I’d done by myself,” Mrksich Seamester program, will be 5,870 nautical said. “It taught me a lot about independence miles long. According to the Seamester in research… and the writing process.” website, students will spend about a Another one of Mrksich’s favorite third of their time anchored on various classes was AP Chemistry with teacher islands, and two thirds of their time at sea.

Paul Woods. Since the class focused “There are 24 students and eight staff heavily on the laboratory experience, roughly on each trip, which is held on a Mrksich gained further knowledge 112 foot sailboat,” Thompson said. “We on the experimentation process. sail for the majority of the time, but “I loved a lot of the labs that we did,” [we] also stop on remote islands and Mrksich said. “It was cool because [I learn about the cultures and traditions.” applied] the experience [of] learning While on board, Thompson and other in the classroom [to] a research lab.” students will spend time learning how to In the fall of 2021, Mrksich plans operate the large watercraft, as well as a on attending college and pursuing a plethora of other ocean-related lessons. degree in biomedical engineering. She “Along with sailing itself and getting hopes to become a physician scientist, our sailing and diving certificates, we which would “My grandpa fought in World War get 12 college credits require both through seamanship, Two, my uncle in Vietnam, and marine biology, student a MD and a PhD. She my cousin was in Iran. And I just leadership, and nautical credits her courses,” thought, if they’re doing it, I’ve got studies laboratory Thompson said. to do it too.” -Marco Grande Thompson has had a passion for the ocean for many years, and, like Grande, her interest started with a family connection.

“My mum studied marine biology in college, and my dad has always had a passion for sailing and surfing, so I grew up around the ocean,” Thompson said.

“[I] always knew I wanted to sail or do something like that when I got older.”

For Thompson, COVID-19 played a large part in her decision to graduate early.

She said that the low rates of COVID-19 and subsequent lack of restrictions in Australia made it an attractive option, especially compared to the United States.

“I decided to graduate early primarily… because I knew that I would probably never go to [Central] again, [since classes were] online, so my family and I decided it would be best to graduate early,” Thompson said.

Although her situation was unusual, Thompson said she was happy with how Central handled the early graduation process.

“Central was very flexible with my credits. All I had to do to graduate early was take one economics class online, and an extra semester of English as well,” Thompson said. “My counselor made it very simple and easy for me.”

Thompson’s decision to graduate early was largely driven by people who came before her. Although her decision was an uncommon one, made due to unusual circumstances, she knew it was useful to look towards those who made similarly unique decisions for guidance.

“A lot of older friends who have graduated a semester early in the past say that it was one of the best decisions they have ever made,” Thompson said. “Their experiences definitely played a part in my decision.”

Grande, just a few months off graduation himself, urges other students to follow in his footsteps in joining the military, particularly due to the wealth of opportunities it provides.

“You’re missing out… if you don’t,” Grande said.

“You’re closing the door to so many spots.”

Mrksich echoes this sentiment and notes that graduating early offers many benefits for those interested. Although she was initially hesitant to pursue this unconventional path, her fears were quickly dispelled.

“I was definitely a bit nervous when I was first deciding to graduate early because I didn’t know a lot of other people that did it,” Mrksich said. “But now that I’ve done it, I’ve realized that graduating early has given me access to a lot of other opportunities in life to take advantage of...Don’t be afraid if it’s something you’re thinking about, and use your time… to the fullest.”

12 | Profiles

215792 Devils Advocate Jan_Feb 2021.indd 12

2/26/21 10:01 AM

Media, Music, Matinees How the Arts Department and students have navigated performances and college applications.

by Nadia Burt and Christine Leung Designed and Photos by Jamie Pecilunas Features | 13

215792 Devils Advocate Jan_Feb 2021.indd 13

2/26/21 10:01 AM

I

t’s only July, but Samara Jacquez, senior, is already preparing her applications for college. Her art supplies and camera are strewn around her room as she makes sure that each of her illustrations and paintings is photographed perfectly.

Although much of her application is the same as a typical student, there is one key difference. Jacquez has to compile her portfolio of 15 to 25 art pieces as she applies to college, a task she says is daunting.

Each college has incredibly specific requirements as to what needs to be included. Seniors have been submitting their college applications for the past few months and several of them have heard back from early decisions. However, for a select group of students, their application process looked different, especially in the midst of a global pandemic. Students planning to go to college for performing arts, and other similar majors have different applications that often involve portfolios and auditions.

Central offers more than 26 art classes, and 15 music courses, as well as a variety of theater options. Due to the pandemic, the way fine arts students at Central have performed and demonstrated their work has often had to move to digital formats.

“It’s a little bit different because we weren’t able to do as many live performances, and a lot of times in theater you’ll do a scene or some sort of improv and you’ll perform it live,” said Chris Kostro, English and Acting teacher. “Whereas this year it’s been a lot of doing a scene, filming it, and then uploading it to flipgrid.”

Kostro was very involved in theater while he attended Lyons Township High School before he received his Bachelors in Fine Arts from the University of Illinois UrbanaChampaign. Before he decided to return to school to get a Masters in education, Kostro performed in industrial films and on stage.

Serge Penksik is another teacher involved in the arts at Central. Penksik has been an Orchestra teacher for 14 years, five of which have been at Central. He is also a coach for several extracurricular activities, like girls badminton and boys golf. Penksik attended DePaul University, where he received his degree in music education and performance.

Orchestra is a largely collaborative class, that involves many varied sections of instruments such as violins, cellos, and violas. In the past, students would meet at school every day to practice. They would also have multiple events during the school year to showcase their accomplishments.

14| Features

215792 Devils Advocate Jan_Feb 2021.indd 14

“We have regular concerts which we do for four concerts a year. We do a full concert, then we do a holiday concert, which is a whole department concert, then we do a spring concert and then we do the graduation… at the end of the year,” Penskik said.

However, due to COVID-19, these events had to be modified in order to be carried out meeting safety requirements.

“This year, the only performance we did was a virtual holiday streamed concert

These changes due to the pandemic are impacting both teachers, as well as students. Many students use in-person learning as time to get verbal feedback, but remote learning meant that feedback was hard to find in an online environment.

“It was hard to find the idea and work under the stressful circumstances of the pandemic….we didn’t Zoom a lot… and we had to use the limited resources we had at home as opposed at school,” Jacquez said.

Senior Samara Jacquez poses with three of her paintings on February 18, 2021.

for the entire department,” Penksik said. “The kids... record[ed] the parts and then I would basically become a sound engineer and put them together.”

Streamed performances are now commonplace in the online world of performance arts. The theater program at Central has been able to produce one show so far this school year, the It’s a Wonderful Life radio play on December 12, 2020. Kostro said there are plans for a freshman play, as well as a spring musical.

“We are... doing the freshman play and it’s going to go up sometime in like February or March, so it’s rehearsing right now but the stream date is TBA right now,” Kostro said. “And then there’s the spring musical, which… is in the process right now of holding auditions, basically, students are submitting tapes of singing short excerpts of songs and a little dance and monologue.”

A lack of physical resources makes it harder for art students as Jacquez said previously. For many music students, however, it provides an opportunity to place more emphasis on their skills.

“Normally when we’re in person... you’re able to hear what everyone else is doing,” said Josh Budziak, senior. “Online, you may only be able to hear a couple other players at a time which makes you focus on... how to improve your own playing skills.”

Budziak is heavily involved with the music program at Central. He plays the tuba in Band and is also part of the Chamber Choir.

According to Budziak, music has been a part of his life from when he was young, which inspired him to pursue a career in music.

“My mom teaches music at a couple different colleges. So, when I was growing up, music was always around me anytime we were in the car going somewhere,”

2/26/21 10:01 AM

Budziak said. “When I got the chance to start music in middle school, I was like... that seems like fun. And it just kept going.”

Many students are planning to apply to college for music performance, among other majors such as art and performance theatre. The standard undergraduate degree for someone in the arts is a BFA, or a Bachelors in Fine Arts, which is for anyone that completed their education in visual, fine, or performing arts.

The more subjective nature of fine arts schools and BFA means that a different type

has several resources on the requirements various colleges have for art student applicants. The usual number of art pieces that universities require is 10-15, though a few, like Carnegie Mellon, 1520 pieces are required. Some schools, like the Rhode Island School of Design, ask for certain pieces unique to the school.

“Rhode Island School of Design makes you actually do challenges. So, apart from your portfolio, you have to do like one piece that’s specific to the school,” Jacquez said.

Budziak also talked about how

paintings by class of 1992 Hinsdale Central Art Program

of application is needed. Jacquez talked about the difficulty and stress of assembling a portfolio for the application process.

“It’s a little different than regular applications because most schools require you to do a portfolio so it takes... a few years prior to... fully build up your portfolio,” Jacquez said. “The portfolio part, it kind of feels like a big audition in some way. And it can be a little bit nerve wracking if you don’t know what...each school is looking for.”

The Central Arts Department website

different the application process is to enter into colleges for music education.

“There are a few things, the audition is the big one. You also need to include a resume headshots, which, as far as I know aren’t typically included in college auditions.

But you do need to also usually apply for specific music schools so I only applied to five schools because I needed to then do an extra audition for each one,” Budziak said.

In terms of the programs and colleges, there is a large variety nationwide and

even internationally. These programs vary in their difficulty, selectiveness, and also in the manner teaching is conducted. ”There are BFA programs that are pretty intense. And some programs you even have to re-audition to stay in it, like at the University of Illinois, where I had to re-audition my sophomore year and then they cut people so we went down from 27 students to 18 between my sophomore to junior year,” Kostro said.

For those planning to go in a more musically inclined major, the number of options is still extensive. Buziak talked of the more prominent colleges in the music world.

“For music, some of the big ones for music are University of Michigan and Indiana University. It’s a very highly rated just school in general but the music program is extremely good there.

After the BFA programs, there are multitudes of pathways a student could take,” Budziak said.

BFA programs open up many options for fine art students. Fine Arts can refer to a number of jobs: animation, theatre, photography, interior design, industrial design to name a few. Bachelor of Arts programs have a stronger focus on base knowledge like communications and mathematics, with ⅔ of the course based upon liberal arts and ⅓ based upon visual arts. The BFA program is typically meant for students who want to gain as much skill in their talent as possible whereas a BA is less extensive.

“You can major in things like stage management, or you could major in, building tech and directing or sound lights on the tech side. And you could concentrate on playwriting or something called dramaturgy which is people who do research on plays,” Kostro said.

For students planning to major in more artistic type majors beyond college, the job opportunities can be difficult.

According to Penksik, this is the case especially for Music Education majors.

“Coming right out of college, it’s not an easy profession, especially if you choose orchestra, because the jobs are scarce. And that’s even in a big area like Chicago land. But I found that ...getting out of college you almost have to take whatever you can get,” Penksik said.

Despite this, students like Budziak said they are looking forward to a career in music education.

Features | 15

215792 Devils Advocate Jan_Feb 2021.indd 15

2/26/21 10:01 AM

16 | Features

215792 Devils Advocate Jan_Feb 2021.indd 16

2/26/21 10:01 AM

The Empty Bleachers Whether it’s home workouts or going out of state, these student athletes will stop at nothing to keep their competitive edge.

by Drew Merz and Mara Severts designed by Mara Severts illustrations by Mara Severts photos courtesy of Jimmy Pisani and Gavin Bailey

Features |17

215792 Devils Advocate Jan_Feb 2021.indd 17

2/26/21 10:01 AM

P

acked bleachers at a football game.

Excited sideline parents watching on at soccer tournaments. Buzzers roaring over a zealous crowd as shoes squeak and balls bounce on the sidelines.

All these seemingly typical high school athletic experiences lost to the pandemic.

To many students at Central, sports are the center of their social, personal, and academic lives. With countless hours spent together and closely bonded teams, there was shock and discomfort that came with COVID-19’s postponement of physical activity.

Heavy breathing, close contact, and indoor practices for long time periods didn’t bode well for regulations about running sports in the pandemic—leaving schools and clubs to try to adapt or shut down. In Superintendent Tammy Prentiss’s letter to the D86 community on March 13, 2020 she reiterated words many Central students said they have been feeling— “confused and frustrated”.

Ever since the Coronavirus’s appearance early last spring, teams and players have looked for solutions to keep playing their respective sports, with varying degrees of success. Illinois categorizes sports into various risk categories and tiers of playing ability, leading to modified playing rules.

Some lower-risk sports like badminton continue their seasons as regular with minimal modifications, while other higherrisk sports like wrestling are given fewer possibilities. And if there is a season— mask-wearing and social distancing when possible will be mandatory. As a result,

experience high school level athletes normally receive. Some students stay and tough out COVID restrictions at Central or at home clubs, while others seek out a more “normal” experience at a different school, switching out of state for an opportunity at a regular season.

Those who stay at Central see a different picture of athletics than what they are used to. Aside from the non-contact sports, all seasons have been pushed back. Central has also made it mandatory for masks to be worn whenever the athletes are not in play.

Sports like tennis, golf, and cross country played through a shortened season, while high contact sports like football were not able to have their season in their planned time of year. Although no games were held for the higher contact sports, some were still able to hold practice. In those practices, social distancing was required as well as the usage of masks regardless of whether or not a helmet was worn.

Despite the shortened seasons low contact fall sports endoured, the majority of athletes said they just felt grateful that they got to have a season at all. One of those being senior Andy Muñoz, who got to participate in cross country earlier this fall.

“I’m just thankful that I was able to run cross country with my team for my last year here at Central. I know a lot of athletes didn’t get the opportunity for a season this past year, so I am extra appreciative,” Muñoz said.

Additionally, earlier this fall, Central’s hockey team traveled to Indiana for a few games. One of which allowed for fans to

come and cheer on their team, under the condition that a mask was worn the entire time. For many Central students, this was the first opportunity to go watch a high school level game of any sport. Senior Vincent Naccarato shared that it was one of his favorite memories from senior year.

“It was amazing seeing the team play for the first time since last winter. The energy at the rink was like no other, completely electric,” Naccarato said.

“Being the first time students could see live sports was a big deal and definitely contributed to the hype.”

In order to give students like Naccarato these happy memories, Central is taking as many opportunities as possible to have a normal season while maintaining COVID-19 protocols. But some students said that they felt they would have a better experience at a different school. Using their sport as motivation, some students have seen COVID-19 as a chance to switch schools or move out of state where the rules may differ.

Former Central student Jimmy Pisani chose to go to an Indiana military boarding school, Culver, for his junior year.

“I decided that I’d rather be in person, experiencing a regular junior year and also playing sports, so I just decided to go to Culver,” Pisani said.

Culver, a sports-focused school, went out of their way to keep sports in circulation.

While there were no crowds at games and many popular events were canceled, the implementation of mandatory maskwearing, an isolated environment, and

Jimmy Pisani left Central to play quarterback and defensive line at Culver in 2020.

18 | Features

215792 Devils Advocate Jan_Feb 2021.indd 18

2/26/21 10:01 AM

large quantities of rapid tests have allowed Pisani to have somewhat normal football and lacrosse seasons.

Pisani, along with senior Gavin Bailey, a former Central student who left after his freshman year to pursue lacrosse, said they’ve enjoyed the benefits of a what they see as a regular school year.

“Indiana is a lot looser when it comes to COVID-19 restrictions and everything,” Bailey said. “The team has only postponed one or two games, however many more [games] are needed till we get back on track.”

Similarly, sophomore Matas Buzelis left Central in order to continue playing basketball. When COVID-19 interfered with his basketball season, he said he felt that his best option was to leave the state and play at a boarding school. He is now playing at Brewster Academy located in New Hampshire. They offer many sports programs but they are known for their basketball program.

“I chose Brewster because I think it is the best choice for me. It is one of the best programs in the country,” Buzelis said.

Along with Brewster and Culver’s network of connections, holding games and practices also allow them access to get in contact with coaches and be scouted for colleges. The lack of games and communication has led some seniors originally hoping to go collegiate floundering. As a result of COVID-19, many schools already have partially filled rosters due to last years’ incoming freshmen taking gap years and coming back.

Bailey discussed Duke’s roster - usually with 44 men total- had about 12 openings for new guys. Of those slots, the majority were already taken by returning and transferring players.

“The amount of spots within the division one level is just going down immensely.

There are a lot of problems with general roster caps,” Bailey said.

Considering the complication, some students have made the decision to not go to college for their sport even though that had been their plan for almost their whole life. Senior Lennon Chrones, a former Central student, left Illinois in hopes that he would have more opportunities to play soccer at the college level at IMG Academy in Florida when he was a sophomore. Upon the arrival of the pandemic, he headed back to a nearby school, Westmont High School, and shed his dreams of playing soccer at a collegiate level.

“I really wanted to go collegiate but,

it’s very hard process right now with everything going on,” Chrones said. “A lot of schools have their full rosters set for the next year so it’s just hard finding scouts.”

Despite the current situation, students are still doing their best to stay in shape individually. For some, this looks like doing home workouts whenever they can find the time. At-home workouts are popular, along with some gyms opening up to allow weightlifting and other exercises. Many students seek out additional support from their team network despite not having games. Some students are even able to schedule one on one lessons with their coaches.

“You can do [more] things, like if you want to see a coach to just do some training on the side,” Chrones said.“Predominantly everything has been closed, like most gyms to just doing at-home workouts.”

Despite the circumstances, students like Buzelis said they are keeping their heads high with the support of their family and friends.

“My parents support me. They always give me so much motivation, and they always call me during the day to talk to me and check-in,” Buzelis said.

Overall, students are trying their very best to keep their favorite sports alive in tough times. Despite the irregularity of practices and competitions, passion for their sport has not died out.

“I [still] love basketball because there are so many things you can learn from it,” Buzelis said.

Currently, juniors are hopeful for a normal 2021-2022 season, while seniors tentatively look forward to a regular freshman year at college. Students who can’t get scouted are looking at being a college walk-on, someone who plays but did not receive a scholarship, or different ways to pursue their passion for sports further than the high school level.

Most students who left Central during COVID intend to stay at their respective schools, with Pisani citing block schedules and personalized learning as reasons why he intends to stay at Culver.

Those who remain in Hinsdale have hope for a more normalized school year in the fall.

“I hope things eventually return to normal, so I can finally go about my normal daily routine with school and athletics as well,” Muñoz said.

Illinois High School Association Sporting Guidelines

Low Risk Sports

Non conference contests Out of state contests & state series allowed*

Medium Risk Sports

Outdoor only Non conference contests Out of state contests & state series allowed* Indoor follow High Risk Regulations

High Risk Sports

Contest within conference Region or out of region within 30 miles *most state seasons cancelled Features |19

215792 Devils Advocate Jan_Feb 2021.indd 19

2/26/21 10:01 AM

american family care

®

The Right Care. Right Now.

Accurate 15 minute COVID-19 Tests COVID-19 Antibody Tests On-sight Labs State of the Art Diagnostic Imaging Allergy Treatment

980 Plainfield Rd in Willowbrook 630-647-5993 afcurgentcare.com

Immunization Vaccines

advert.indd 215792 Devils 1 Advocate Jan_Feb 2021.indd 20

2/26/21 2/22/21 10:01 2:29 PM AM

EYE OF THE DEVIL Lainey Harvey, Devils’ Advocate Copy Editor, captures winter scenes around the community.

Photos by Lainey Harvey designed by Hari Rao

Features | 21

photospread-2 215792 Devils Advocate (2).indd 1Jan_Feb 2021.indd 21

2/25/21 10:01 2/26/21 11:40 AM

UNSOLICITED ADVICE DATING IDEAS DURING A PANDEMIC

by Ailish Lyman and Caroline Cubbin designed by Kritin Shanmugam illustrations by Rania Arain

1

Movie Marathon!

With movie theaters closed due to COVID-19, couples may not get to enjoy movies the old fashion way.

However, movie dates are versatile, and sometimes movie marathons at home can be better than the real thing.

The first step to a successful movie marathon date is coming up with the right movies. There are countless movies to choose from, but the right combination can be elusive. First, decide on a genre or type of movie that both parties enjoy, and go from there. You could decide on a fun theme for the night, like movies based off of books, or period dramas, or certain franchises, like Disney or Star Wars. The next step is to look up reviews on movies that you’re interested in. No one wants to watch a movie with a 12% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, but the movies you pick don’t need to be overly intellectual or complex either. Once you’ve compiled a list of movies, it’s time to think about snacks. If you’re able to hang out safely in person, it could be fun to make food based on the movies you’re watching, or you could just pick out the snacks you both enjoy.

Once you’re all set with the right food and movies, the next step is to get comfortable. Having the right ambience is key to being comfortable and enjoying your time, so the right pillows and blankets are important.

However, if you’re not able to be together safely in person, Zoom is your best bet. Other movie sharing services, like Teleparty, are also ideal for watching a movie together from a distance. Overall, while the little details can be fun, the most important thing is that you’re able to enjoy movies with someone you care about.

2

Watch March Madness!

For all of the sports lovers out there like me, when the month of March comes to mind, my mood is automatically boosted. Creating brackets and betting on which college basketball team will win it all in the March Madness college basketball tournament has become a common ground for many siblings, friends, coworkers, and peers. For those who are a little more shy like me, watching March Madness and sharing the love of sports is the perfect way to meet someone new without the impending fear of awkward silence. It’s hard to run out of things to talk about when there are players like Kofi Cockburn and Luke Garza constantly innovating new ways to play the game of basketball. If you are unable to safely gather with your significant other to watch the games in person, you can easily stream them on Zoom and instantly share your reactions to some of the most engrossing sports games of the year. Speaking from personal experience, rooting for a team with a friend or family member can do wonders for your mental health and your relationships. Although it sounds cliche, the month of March provides me with the opportunity to spend countless hours bonding with my brother which I wouldn’t normally have. If sports are something that intrigue you and your significant other, I highly recommend immersing yourself in the world of March Madness.

3

Go Downtown!

As we near an almost perfect calendar year of COVID-19, going out on the town has been hard for many.

With your significant other, go to downtown Chicago and eat in an individual enclosure. Many restaurants have set up social distanced ways to make sure your date night is fun while also being safe. There are different options of heated greenhouses, or heated igloos, such as many restaurants on Randolph Street and Wacker Drive for you and your date to eat a delicious dinner totally separated from others. After dinner, you could walk the streets of the city while getting a great view of the buildings at night. You could go on the riverwalk, shop on Michigan Avenue, or take a stroll around Maggie Daley Park. If you are comfortable going indoors, reserve a ticket for the Art Museum and admire many works of art. If you are unable to go to the city of Chicago, there are many suburbs that offer safe, fun activities as well. Downtown Naperville has many shops, restaurants with outdoor seating, and a riverwalk. With COVID-19 making it hard to do “normal” activities, there are still many modified activities you can still do to have a great date night.

22 | Perspectives

unsolicitedadvice.indd 215792 Devils Advocate1Jan_Feb 2021.indd 22

2/25/21 10:01 2/26/21 10:56 AM

Untitled-1 215792 Devils 1 Advocate Jan_Feb 2021.indd 23

2/26/21 2/22/21 10:01 2:43 PM AM

HOW TO: Examples of vegan alternatives to milk, yogurt, butter, and a dairy-free smoothie are shown that can all be found at a local grocery store.

Venture Out Vegan

M

y eyes scan the neat rows of organic, gluten-free, vegan friendly snacks at the grocery store. Nothing really catches my eye as appealing or worth the premium you have to pay to receive these supposed health benefits. Back in my car, I aimlessly scroll through TikTok, only to be hit with the same advertisements of different people demonstrating their healthy lifestyles and toned bodies through clean eating, keto diets, paleo plants, and more. It’s become an annoyance to see these diet fads and stark transformations on social media, especially while stuck at home during quarantine. Eventually I became fed up with seeing influencers’ promote their intuitive diets with drastic health changes that I needed to test out their claims for myself. I wanted to see if I could change my diet, how that would impact my overall health and discipline, and if this was something I could sustain long term.

My goal for this month was to be a vegan for ten days, beginning Feb. 1. I had to do research at first to discover what being

a vegan entails. Vegans do not eat any animal products, including dairy and eggs.

Pollinated items such as honey are eaten by some vegans, but I chose to abstain from the natural sweetener in order to be strict and embrace the full extent of the diet. Clean plant-based eating is a sharp contrast to my usual meals and I had never restricted such a large food group before, but I figured ten days was doable and not something that would deter from my day to day doings.

I wish I could say I had an organized plan of meals I was going to prepare, but that honestly did not happen. I knew the basics of being a vegan included a lot of grains, fruits and vegetables, so I stuck with those in the beginning. On the first day I skipped breakfast like usual and substituted my normal coffee creamer for an oat milk alternative, specifically the Oatly Barista Oat Milk. I didn’t mind the taste and oat milk alternatives are extremely popular, especially the brand Oatly which advertised recently with a Super Bowl commercial. I also tried out an almond milk creamer but that tasted like an actual nut, so I stuck it out with the oat milk. For lunch that day, I was craving Chipotle but I figured I could substitute my usual order for plant based alternatives. I got a bowl with brown rice, black beans, veggies, lettuce, mild salsa, and guacamole. I didn’t notice the lack of protein and was happy that I did not have to forgo their famous guac. For dinner my mom made spaghetti which I enjoyed with the rest of my family. So far, being a vegan was proving less of an inconvenience than I initially thought it would be.

On days when I woke up hungry, I would make a bowl of oatmeal with oat milk and bananas, or toast some bread for avocado toast. My usual breakfast order consisted of eggs but I did not mind the substitution.

I did notice that I was hungrier than usual throughout the day, which I can guess is a result of my change in diet. To satisfy my hunger I love to snack, so I had to find alternatives that were vegan friendly.

Apples and peanut butter are a filling snack and I ate that a lot throughout the week. Popcorn is another vegan option, along with carrots and hummus. These are

by Cedra Jazayerli photo by Cherise Lopez

all really easy and convenient snacks that I made frequently because I knew they did not require a lot of prep time or ingredients.

My biggest concern about this challenge was the inconvenience of making my own, specialized meals since as high school students we don’t have all the time in the world, and I personally do not have a passion or gift of cooking. However, after the ten days I can say that I enjoyed this change and did not feel like it took away from other doings.

An initial concern of mine was wondering how I was going to make up for lack of animal product protein, since that is a large part of my diet and an essential nutrient for our health. Since veganism has grown tremendously within the last decade, there have been numerous plant based alternatives created to supplement and perform like traditional protein. Black beans, nuts, legumes, and veggie burgers are all great choices. I tried a Beyond Burger, which is a popular brand of plantbased meat alternatives, that I found at the grocery store. Once I dressed my burger with lettuce, tomato, and pickles, I could not taste any difference from a normal beef burger. I definitely will eat more plant-based burgers to switch up my diet going forward.

Prior to going vegan, I had heard about the possible changes to your taste buds as a result of restricting animal products.

Articles I read concluded that many vegan eaters are prone to sensitivity and the ability to pinpoint different tastes to normal foods as a result of their diets. For me, I did not have any of those changes because I only pursued these habits for ten days. I think it takes about a month to experience the anatomical changes because I did notice physical changes such as more energy, less bloating, clearer skin, and less snacking.

Going vegan was something that I had always wanted to try and am proud of myself for committing to the diet for ten days. Though I do not see myself adopting veganism as my every day diet, I definitely can appreciate and respect those who are vegans.I encourage everyone who is willing and able to try new things to go vegan, but be sure to do it smartly which includes doing your research first.

24 | Perspectives

pg 24.indd 215792 Devils 1 Advocate Jan_Feb 2021.indd 24

2/26/21 2/24/21 10:01 9:35 PM AM

Ask an Athlete

by Nate Bittner

Photos provided by Quinn Cain

Cain dribbles in a 2019 road game against Lake Park High School.

Quinn Cain

Cain drives towards the basket in a game against West Aurora High School.

Age

Team

Class

18

Boys Varsity

Senior

Number (Why do you wear it?)

13

I wear number 13 because it’s unlucky, so guys like Bennett Willman can have a better chance of guarding me during practice.

Position

PG/SG

Committed

Tufts University

Brand of Choice Favorite Team

Nike

Favorite Player

Jerami Grant

Chicago Bulls

About Me Q: How old were you when you started playing basketball?

A: I’ve been playing for as long as I can remember, the organized basketball I played was in second grade with Charlie Herbst and Charlie Sessa, who both still play with me.

Q: What is your favorite Hinsdale Central Basketball memory?

A: Bennet beatboxing and Nithin rapping in the locker room. I also like memorizing plays with Charlie Sessa.

Q: What is the state of basketball right now in Illinois?

A: We just got cleared to play, as of right now we have nine games on the schedule, I’m hoping we get to play more.

Q: What has playing basketball been like during COVID? A: It’s been difficult finding gyms to play at and at every gym you have to play while wearing a mask which makes it hard. It’s better than nothing though.

Q: Do you have a pregame routine?

A: Before games last year I would listen to the immaculate flow that is Nithin’s free styles.

Perspectives | 25

Ask an Athlete 215792 Devils Advocate ID CAIN MM.indd Jan_Feb 2021.indd 1 25

2/25/21 10:01 2/26/21 11:34 AM

RED DEVIL REDUX

I

Hinsdale Central Lacrosse 2018: Retold

t’s often said that sports are a metaphor for life. The trials and tribulations, successes and failures, and triumphs and defeats experienced in sports all translate into the real world. Additionally, the development of work habits through practice, as well as teamwork, are both skills that apply into all aspects of life. However, this metaphor isn’t just a one-way street, as life is a journey, and it’s not always about the summit, but about the path to the summit. For sports, many teams aren’t defined by the day or game that won them a championship, but by all of the days and games leading up to that moment.

This holds especially true for the 2018 Varsity Girls’ Lacrosse team. On June 2, 2018, the Red Devils, on home soil, defeated lacrosse powerhouse New Trier 13-3 to claim the Illinois state title.

Ultimately, however, that championshipwinning team won’t be characterized by those 50 minutes on a summer evening, but will be characterized instead by the months

matter how good you might be, how good you think you might be, or how good you want to be, is never an easy one, and one of the driving forces behind reaching the final destination was the coaching staff. The Red Devils were headed by Dan Hartman, with assistant coaches Maggie Zentgraf and Kelsey Sopron also supporting the team.

Lally Johnson, senior attacker at the time, said each coach had their own role, and they worked well as a trio. “[Hartman] was a really good coach,” Johnson said. “He knew how to make players play better. Coach [Sopron] was the comedic relief, and whenever things got intense, she always knew how to make us laugh. Coach [Zentgraf] was a genius, she knew everything about lacrosse, and she knew how to teach and coach lacrosse.”

Another popular adage used in sports is “it isn’t about the X’s and O’s, but about the Jimmies and Joes,” implying that a team can have the best coaches, but without good players, they’ll never achieve anything.

Photo from @RedDevilsAD

The Red Devils outscored their opponents 62-20 in their five playoff games, marking a dominant finish to the season for the state champions.

of practice and games leading up to it.

Heading into the season, there was an aura of confidence surrounding the team.

Jessica Joy, sophomore attacker at the time, said there was not only the desire, but also the expectation that they would win state.

“We all went into the season wanting to win,” Joy said. “The goal at the end of the season was the state championship, and everyone was expected to fulfill their role and hold everyone else accountable because we really wanted to win the state championship.”

However, the road to a state title, no

Central had an outstanding coaching staff, but their success was going to come down to the players themselves. Joy said they had a very balanced squad, and that made them difficult to beat.

“There wasn’t a star player, and that’s why we were so hard to beat,” Joy said. “We didn’t rely on a sole person or a few people to carry the team, and everyone had their role.”

Additionally, Johnson said everyone on the team had a really good relationship, and that helped them win on the field.

“We all genuinely liked each other,” Johnson said. “We would hang out together

by John Olsen

all the time, and we’d practice together even when we weren’t in season, so there was a lot of chemistry off the field, and that really helped.”

The Red Devils kicked off their season with emphatic wins over Naperville North and Conant in non-conference play, as well as opening their conference season with a 17-1 win against York. They took that 3-0 record with them on a spring break trip to Georgia, where they faced some high level competition down there. Joy said that although they didn’t win as much as they would’ve liked, the way they played validated how good they thought they were.

“Going down there, we knew we’d be facing some of the best teams in the country,” Joy said. “We went 1-2, but the games that we were supposed to get blown out in were decided by one or two points.

We were shocked by what we had done, and that made us think, ‘Wow, we really have a special team this year.’”

Central then headed up to Michigan to face Rockford, the state champions, which would be a weekend that Joy said was the turning point of the season.

“Everyone would pinpoint that as the moment when the switch flipped for the team,” Joy said. “We lost in double overtime, and Hartman yelled at us in the locker room after the game about what we could’ve executed better. Our game the next day got rained out, so we woke up early and came back to Central, where Hartman then said, ‘We’re having a practice.’ That was probably the hardest practice I’ve ever been a part of, but that’s where the intensity of the team went up a level.”

Central then went on a tear against local opposition, winning eight games in a row, which wrapped up the West Suburban Conference title for them. Johnson said winning the conference title carried a little extra weight because of the relationships the Central players had with players on other teams. “[Winning the conference title] was always fun,” Johnson said. “Illinois lacrosse is a small community, and so there was always someone on the other team that you knew. Everyone also got to play in conference games, and we’d try new plays and have fun with it.”

26 | Perspectives

Jan Feb Column.indd 215792 Devils Advocate 2 Jan_Feb 2021.indd 26

2/22/2021 2/26/21 13:43:56 10:01 AM

However, also within that run of games, the Red Devils squared off against Loyola Academy, who had won the state title eight years in a row. Central was up by four goals at halftime, but unfortunately, a storm prevented the game from being finished.

Johnson said that game really made them believe that they could win the state title.

“After the game, everyone’s phones were blowing up and all of our club lacrosse friends were texting us, saying, ‘Oh my god, I heard you were beating Loyola, you’re gonna beat them in state, this is going to be amazing,’” Johnson said. “Everyone hates Loyola because they’re the best team, and since this game didn’t count, we wanted to make [the result] official.”

Shortly before the playoffs started, the Red Devils had a chance to face New Trier, their other main competition in their quest for the state championship. They ended up losing 11-9, which was a surprising outcome. Joy said they knew they could beat New Trier, it just didn’t come together in that game.

“We went into the game with the mentality that we knew we could win,” Joy said. “We knew we had all of the tools we needed to win that game, but our execution just wasn’t there that time around.”

Johnson also said that New Trier caught them off guard with some of their tactics, but the game also gave them insight into how they would win in a potential rematch.

“It was very eye-opening,” Johnson said.

“I think the reason they shut us down was because they had a defender standing next to Jenna Collignon, who was having an amazing season, the entire time. Although it surprised us at the time, it was also nice because we expected them to do that again the next time.”

Central’s playoff run began with a 14-2 victory against Montini Catholic, followed

by a 9-5 win against local rivals Lyons Township, before the Red Devils secured their place in the Final Four with an 18-5 demolition of O’Fallon. In the semifinals, the girls would get a chance to make their superiority over Loyola official. Joy said the team tried to treat the rematch like they hadn’t “won” before.

“The biggest thing for us was to not treat the previous game as a win,” Joy said.

“Although we were leading at halftime, you can be up at any point in any game, and so we made sure not to come in high and mighty, expecting to win, because we were leading before.”

The Red Devils proved that their earlier encounter against the Ramblers, although unofficial, was no fluke with an 8-5 triumph. Joy said that game was extremely special due to the emphasis that had been placed on beating Loyola years before she was in high school.

“That game was crazy,” Joy said. “The majority of us played IGLA, which was the AYSO equivalent, and one of the dads that coached told us, ‘We are training to beat Loyola.’ We were 4th and 5th graders, and didn’t really know Loyola. It made beating them on our home field awesome.”

With both revenge for a defeat earlier in the year and a state title on the line, the Red Devils took their chance and vanquished New Trier 13-3, which was a shocking turnaround from an 11-9 loss just weeks earlier. Even more surprising was the fact Central won the game with a running clock, which was part of a mercy rule and something that is an anomaly in such a competitive game.

Joy said the shift in momentum right before halftime was what ultimately propelled Central to the victory.

“We had scored just before halftime to go up 4-3, and we had been down the majority

of the first half,” Joy said. “Coming out of the locker room, momentum was kind of on our side, and we just took off running and carried that momentum throughout the half, tacking on goal after goal.”

Johnson said the reason the Red Devils kept tacking on the goals, and won by such a large margin, was a result of their biggest weakness.

“Our biggest flaw was [keeping the ball under pressure],” Johnson said. “We’d work on it every practice, and were just horrible at it. Our goal was to keep the ball for two minutes and we didn’t do it once all season.

The reason we ran up the score is because [New Trier] started playing high pressure, and since they did that, the only thing we knew how to do was go straight to goal and score.”

Given the circumstances, Joy said that the feeling of winning the state championship was indescribable.

“Knowing that we had done it on our home field and knowing we had done it beating both Loyola and New Trier made it even better,” Joy said. “I don’t even know how to describe it, but it was amazing.”

As amazing as winning the title was, Johnson said the relationships and bonds they developed with each other throughout the year were even more memorable.

“They were my friend group in high school,” Johnson said. “It’s been almost three years now, and I can still text any of them, and I’m in contact with most of them all of the time.”

Most importantly, Johnson said those relationships that everyone in the team developed made an already extremely special moment even more special.

“It wasn’t like my lacrosse team won a state championship,” Johnson said. “It was me and my friends that won a state championship.”

Perspectives | 27

Jan Feb Column.indd 215792 Devils Advocate 3 Jan_Feb 2021.indd 27

2/22/2021 2/26/21 13:43:56 10:01 AM

BATTLEGROUND Is the ability for big tech-companies to censor users a free speech issue for our society? illustrations by Rania Arain & Mara Severts

CONTEXT: The censorship of former President Donald Trump on major platforms, such as Twitter, Facebook, etc., had revitalized the conversation on the amount of power that these tech companies have over what’s said on their platform, given the large population of users on the platform. So, is the ability for these companies to censor its user base a free speech issue for our society?

W

hether or not big techs can censor information is largely decided by the protocol regarding government regulation of private companies. However, the ethics of this is a point of contention; for big techs to censor information and people is an issue, however it is not one that calls for intervention.

First, it does not breach the rights given to Americans in the United States Constitution. To unpack this, it is important to understand the relationship between the First Amendment, which declares free speech a constitutional right, and the release of information. Specifically, the relationship

NOOR MRYAN

between free speech and hate speech. We have heard the age old saying that “everyone is entitled to their own opinion”, and this remains valid. However, someone’s opinion, if founded on hatred, is no longer something that they are entitled to share. This is entirely regardless of where someone falls on the political spectrum. We can break this down with the statement: I like apples. To have this opinion is an exercise of freedom of speech. I can like apples irrespective of the person to the right of me. However, if me liking apples could cause harm or violence to others, and is rooted in hatred, then this statement no longer falls under free speech.

In which case, for it to be censored is for the safety of the American public.

What is key is that hate speech cannot be classified as hate speech for its content, but rather for the effect that it could have. Sam Sanders explains in a 2018 NPR Podcast that “speech with a hateful message may be punished, if in a particular context it directly causes a specific, imminent, serious harm”. Sanders elaborates that this harm would be a threat that would “instill a reasonable fear on the part of the person who… is subject to violence”. Censoring hateful information, or the people who spread it, is a measure that must be taken to protect peoples’ lives.

Take, for example, what happened at the Capitol just a few months ago. A 2021 PBS News article highlights

Jennifer Grygiel, a Syracuse University professor and expert on social media, who stated that the “events in Washington, D.C. are a direct results of Trump’s use of social media to spread propaganda and disinformation, and that platforms should bear some responsibility for their inaction”.

Grygiel specifically references Twitter, the platform that quickly banned the former president after the violence at the Capitol.

Grygiel echoes the belief of millions of other Americans that Trump’s tweets on that day, which praised and urged his supporters, can be classified as hate speech. She concludes that if Twitter had acted sooner to censor this information, it is possible that less violence would have been a result of his tweets.

There is no denying that who is in control of categorizing information as hate speech or free speech is an issue and a question in and of itself. But it is clear that the ability for big techs to censor information is not an issue if the information being censored can erupt violence against other individuals. For the emotional and physical safety of our country, big techs censoring (hateful) information is not an issue that requires intervention.

28 | Perspectives

battleground.indd 215792 Devils Advocate 2 Jan_Feb 2021.indd 28

2/24/21 10:01 2/26/21 10:09 AM PM

C

ensorship. It’s a word we’ve all grown used to whether it be in the context of concealing vulgar expletives in clean versions of our favorite songs or in movies seeking PG-ratings in order to appeal to family audiences. More recently, however, this word has become the newest addition to America’s growing list of polarizing political topics of discussion.

For years, conservatives have voiced concerns regarding censorship of their views on mainstream social media platforms, particularly Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and Twitter. These concerns were only ignited as several platforms decided to remove a sitting president, Mr. Trump, enraging several conservatives nationwide. But this issue is not about whether conservatives or liberals are right in their views or whether there is truly an online bias against a conservative media presence. The issue is about whether this censorship adheres to the values set forth for the United States under the Constitution.

Early advocates against the censorship of users on these social media platforms cited the first amendment and its protections of free speech as a reason for why such suppression of individuals’ voices on the internet was unconstitutional. This argument soon faced its limitations as many were quick to point out that the first amendment protected against suppression of free speech by the government, not by the private companies which were carrying out the censorship sparking the outrage. While this was a fair counterpoint as a private company should have every right to dictate the type of messaging and perspectives they want associated with their platform, it overlooks the ‘Big Tech’ monopoly which has begun to form in the social media space.

According to reports by The New York Times, certain House legislators spent over sixteen months investigating the monopolistic practices of tech firms, even including Facebook. A Department of Justices lawsuit even goes as far as to state that the “pattern of behavior [from these tech companies] raises questions about whether these firms view themselves as above the law, or whether they simply treat lawbreaking as a cost of business.” Clearly, there are credible government agencies that have made note of the monopolistic behavior of certain companies responsible for censorship of speech. But until these monopolies are successfully broken up by the government, is it not fair to say that the first amendment is in fact being infringed upon as the government is responsible for breaking up the monopoly which has allowed the censorship to prevail?

It can be argued that if certain people feel like the existing social media platforms don’t offer the freedom in speech they seek, then they are more than welcome to embrace America’s concept of free enterprise to create their own platform.

But with that being said, the monopolistic power of ‘Big Tech’ has prevented the ability to do so. For example, Parler was a social media platform created for the promotion

MIKHAIL ESSA of free speech but was taken down by the app store which connected them to users.

There is no doubt a growing issue regarding the expansive powers of the Social Media Giants who have used censorship to limit freedom of speech in America, and until addressed, our country will only further distance itself from the values which have built our democracy since 1776.

Perspectives | 29

battleground.indd 215792 Devils Advocate 3 Jan_Feb 2021.indd 29

2/24/21 10:01 2/26/21 10:09 AM PM

STAFF EDITORIAL AN UNFORTUNATE DAY WORTH REMEMBERING This editorial is the consensus of the Devils’ Advocate Editorial Board.

photo provided by CNN

J

anuary 6, 2021. A simple Wednesday and a school day. It started off routine for many students at Hinsdale Central: students woke up for their twenty-five minute classes and trudged through the day. It wasn’t until around noon when chaos struck at the Capitol, adding to an already interesting start to the month. That same morning

in America, the run-offs for the Georgia senate elections were declared in-favor for the Democrats, and Congress convened to certify the results of the presidential election.

That morning, Trump made his remarks to a group of his supporters. He urged them to march towards the Capitol building, saying, according to NPR, that they cannot “take back

[America] with weakness, they have to show strength.” Authorities weren’t ready for what would greet them at the entrance to the 228 year old building. In all its years the building had been witness to plenty of historical moments, and it was about to be sieged, making for a moment not to be forgotten.

As American citizens, we must

30 | Perspectives

editorial.indd 215792 Devils 2Advocate Jan_Feb 2021.indd 30

2/24/21 10:01 2/26/21 11:31 AM PM

remember to abide under our country’s constitution. Regardless of whether there was a meritable reason to rally in front of the Capitol, there is no defensible claim to barge into the Capitol to illegitimately stop a democratic process. While some are able to empathize with the supporters and their feelings, we must remember that on Jan. 6, our country’s Capitol building, a citadel for democracy, was unrightfully attacked.

The American people had been through a lot since the start of 2020. First COVID-19, followed by racial conflict. Now, once again, riots. But this time, at the birthplace of western democracy; a disturbing sight to see.

On the west side of the Capitol is where the first aggressive actions were made. The tall, cross-link fence was stressed and put under pressure, surrounded by Trump flags, orange caps, and other supporters, motivated by mislead direction. Shortly after, the northwest side of the building’s barriers were breached. Videos depict men and women using full force, pushing past an unprepared security team.

Many of the supporters continued to push back, all while members of Congress were in the building. Eventually, they reached the doors of the Capitol building. Then, they barged right inside.

The cameras had been covering the rioters that entire time. But, at that point, the entire

nation was watching. Plenty of students had the TV on while listening into their Zoom class. Plenty of people watched this, and people on both sides of the aisle thought the same thing: this has gone too far.

While watching the events unfold during the day, many assumed that some “bad apples” infiltrated the otherwise peaceful rally outside the Capitol. In supporting their opinion, they drew comparisons with those that utilized the Black Lives Matter movement to loot goods from stores.

“Granted there were some who were violent and should not have gone into the Capitol,” said Sam Snodgrass, senior and outspoken conservative. “However, I feel like most of them were just regular Trump supporters who felt like they got robbed.”

Snodgrass continues to describe how, in the videos and images that surfaced, many of the supporters did not seem to have malicious intent; and instead, they were just uninvited visitors.

“Most of [the Trump supporters] in the building were just taking pictures and messing around in the Capitol,” Snodgrass said. “There were obviously people shoving officers to get through… and they should be held accountable.”

As we move closer into understanding what exactly happened behind the scene for the Capitol building’s patrol

$

on that day, more and more reports are breaking news. However, many agree that there was a failure in leadership that day from both sides of the aisle.

According to WBUR, information compiled by the House Impeachment committee from the Anti-Defamation League’s Center for Extremism found that many of the right-wing extremists had been planning this event on online forums that the Trump administration was monitoring. On top of that, according to NBC news, a lawsuit filed by Rep. Bennie Thompson, D-Miss., and the NAACP allege that Trump, his personal lawyer Rudy Giuliani, the Proud Boys and the Oath Keepers (both right-wing extremist groups) worked together in inciting these riots.

As we continue to find out more information about the failure in leadership, it seems like that the signs are pointing at the former President. But, this did not come as a surprise for many, not before, after, or even during the riots. Trump had started the “Great Lie” -- losing the election because of “fraud” -- and perpetuated it in his rallies and the media to cause the Jan 6. riots, an unfortunate day worth remembering.

25.OFF 00

e

o Cod W/ Prom

Better Education.

COVID Better Student Experience.

At The Lowest Price.

Experience the Difference • Changing a Tire • Texting & Driving Simulation Awareness

• Expressway Driving • Chicago Driving • Parallel Parking

Now in Hinsdale at 111 W. Chicago Ave. www.BeAResponsibleDriver.com • 630-974-6700 Perspectives | 31

editorial.indd 215792 Devils 3Advocate Jan_Feb 2021.indd 31

2/24/21 10:01 2/26/21 11:31 AM PM

HCHS STUDENTS

Enroll now in our WEBCAST online course.

Self-Paced course modules can be taken at any time 24/7!

*Schedule your in-vehicle lessons at any of our 30+ convenient locations including Hinsdale, Western Springs and Downers Grove * All Teen Program packages include our innovative Parent Coaching System 800-374-8373

www.topdriver.com

We Teach Driver Intelligence™️

Untitled-3 Untitled-1 215792 Devils 1 Advocate Jan_Feb 2021.indd 32

10/21/20 2/26/21 2/22/21 10:01 2:44 9:37 PM AM