The Oracle Vol 54 Issue 2 Nov 6 2015 by Marshall Harris

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4000 w. lake ave, glenview, il 60026 volume liv, issue 2, nov. 6, 2015 theoracle.glenbrook225.org

Common Core poses opportunity for math curriculum refinement

CONTEMPLATING THE CONFLICT: Despite liv-

ing miles away from the heart of the Syrian conflict, GBS custodians Sahar Barkho and her husband Stewart Adam are affected just the same by the issue through familial connection in the country. The Assyrian population (symbol below) represents the minority of Christians in northern Syria, Iraq, Turkey and western Iran. Photo by Dani Tuchman

SASHA VASSILYEVA asst. news editor

curricular changes following the shift to the

lic schools in the state have to meet certain standards the curriculum to change. -

you continue to grow.” eighth grade, students following the grade level curricu-

Syria faces uncertain future

Students enrolled in the single accelerated program will

“Our curriculum, assessments and instructional prac-

GBS Assyrians contemplate ongoing conflict in region, urge renewed outlook on controversy

tent communication with their relatives in Syria. According to Nwia, there have

JOHN SCHURER co-news editor

new information and push students toward new ways of -

for long periods of time.

ALEX SHARP co-features editor

concepts taught in Precalculus.

Refugee camps, forced migrations and displaced persons have transformed the international conversation, creating a heated discussion on the next step towards ending the Syrian refugee crisis. According to the United Nations (UN), a refugee, asylum seeker, (economic) migrant or internationally displaced person -

are changing.” kind of got interrupted as well as communication with my father and his family.”

tional emergency. According to syrianrefugees.eu, the Syrian refugee cri-

and unemployment. -

low students to share a common set of standards which she thinks will serve to help them. mented as intended, with aligned mathematical practices and instructional shifts, students will achieve a much deeper understanding of mathematical concepts higher level.” -

See MATH page 3

to Syria.”

ity of this situation has worsened.

Syrian civil society has collapsed, and these people of these places where Syrians have found themselves, are not just going to get up the next morning and go home,”

Photo courtesy of Creative Commons

sistance and support, for some time.” -

home, she got the call that her nephew had passed.

See SYRIA page 2

their towns.”

news

STEM BUDDY PROGRAM

Illustration by Jini John

opinions features a&e

FREE THE NIPPLE

CONNIE HOEKSTRA PROFILE

17 FALL PLAY

sports

MEN’S SOCCER

news

Nov. 6, 2015

ALUM PUBLISHES BIOGRAPHY uate of GBS, published a biography about Gary Gygax, his life as he experienced both success and failure in pioneering the role-playing been reviewed positively by

land when watching the news one night with her dad, where the violence became

“We [got] a phone call from Lebanon [where] they told me [that my husband]

understands what the crisis is and why the violence is so detrimental to Syrian

come from military families or government employees to apply for addi-

he was just speechless, because this entire -

spite all the violence and fear associated

believes that education is necessary to

Recognizing the danger of traveling in -

adults and free for senior citi-

sent surveys to parents, stu-

BILL AIDS GLENBROOKS

am crying with my loud voice, [wondering] why this had happened, why this is

consist of rehearsals and clinics throughout the day for orchestra, band and vocal ensembles and a performance starting at

DISTRICT HOLDS FOCUS GROUPS

TRAGEDY STRIKES: Mourning the loss of Milad Adam (right), family members sob in rememberance of his life. Adam was killed in Feb. 2015 at 18 years old when a Kurdish sniper shot him in the head. He is one of the casualties of the long-standing conflict in Syria, which has touched several members of the South community, including his aunt and uncle, custodians Sahar Barkho and Stewart Adam. Photos courtesy of Sahar Barkho

Syria, continued from front

SOUTH HOSTS ILMEA FESTIVAL

tinue their awareness and fundraising efforts in order to further aid the growing

DEBATE EARNS HIGH RANKING

identify important topics related to curriculum and wellness for action and discussion over munity members provided inthe district will host its second session where attendees will discuss these topics and learn about plans the district has to

ing program in the nation

ALUMNUS WRITES MEMOIR

rather be beheaded

South opened its doors to stu-

would die with [the] proud Jesus [and] with [the] proud

of points and degrees earned for competitive and service -

body, but they can Understanding daily by Syrian refwith peace and stader to achieve this lieves education on step towards progress in aiding the

wants all GBS students to remember to be ly sees the value of her current situation in the way that she goes to bed at night ent than what her family and friends are -

cause of] freedom of religion [and] free-

RELIGIOUS RUINS: An important place of worship for many Assyri-

an families, St. George’s Church in Syria was destroyed by ISIS and the Kurdish army. Photo courtesy of Sahar Barkho

Taking a closer look at events that shaped the world. THE CONFEDERATE FLAG DANI TUCHMAN co-editor-in-chief

everyone, including all GBS students,

If you were alive 155 years ago today, you would have witnessed headlines that read, “Abraham Lincoln elected 16th president of The United States.” Not only was he the first Republican candidate elected to office, but he received 40 percent of the popular vote when he defeated his running-mates, one of whom was Illinois senator Stephen A. Douglas. For a historical refresher, Lincoln ran against Douglas for the Illinois senate seat in 1858 and their campaigns became the stage for the famous “Lincoln Douglas Debates.” After losing the election, Lincoln ran for the presidency two years later and was chosen as arguably one of the best commanders-in-chief in our nation’s history. Lincoln’s controversial victory instigated the secession of seven Southern states, which threatened secession if the Republicans gained the White House. Lincoln’s inauguration was paired with the establishment of the Confederate States of America, and one month later, the brutality of the

Civil War ensued. Two years later, as the Union states noticeably started to defeat the Confederacy, Lincoln emancipated the Southern slaves. In 1864, Honest Abe won a seat for his second term. Five days after the Confederate states surrendered at the Appomattox Courthouse, Lincoln was assassinated and unable to witness the official Union victory and the post-war Reconstruction period. Even today, many Southerners want to display the Confederate flag as what they say is a proud symbol of their heritage. The continual flying of the Confederate flag in certain states is a testament to their view of the flag as a positive symbol. However, on July 10, South Carolina’s capitol building was ordered to remove the Confederate flag, an evident symbol of slavery, that ebbed and waved on the front lawn for 54 years. South Carolina governor Nikki Haley declared on NBC’s “Today Show” that the “Flag needs to be in a museum, where we will continue to make

PSAT SEMIFINALISTS their junior year and were selected for the program based on having a high scor-

memoir, When the Grain Ran True: Memoirs of a Major League Bat Boy lessons he learned from the ex-

KEY CLUB HELPS REFUGEES Key Club participated in an event on Oct. 31 in which they accompanied children from the Refugee One resettlement agency as they trick-or-treated.

sure people will honor it appropriateCarolina’s lauded precedent. ly.” He later added, “The Statehouse Nonetheless, Lincoln’s lasting legacy [is] an area that belongs to everyone. continues to influence the actions of And no one should drive by the stateAmerican citizens and law-makers house and feel pain. No one should alike and indirectly facilitates the nadrive by the statehouse and feel like tion’s gravitation towards a truly unithey don’t belong.” fied state. A similar situation unfurled on Oct. 26 when The University of Mississippi lowered their flag that contained the Confederacy’s crossed red and white stripes. The action came days after student and faculty-led groups on-campus SOUTHERN STARS: Flycalled for removal ing high, the confederate of the banner. Howflag is displayed outside ever, it was surprisof the South Carolina ing to many that it capitol building. The flag took an institution was removed on July 10, of higher educa2015. Photo credit: flickr tion another three months until they followed after South

news

Nov. 6, 2015

Math Curriculum, continued from front

implemented in the 2017-2018 school year. “In the past, we’ve really valued our two-year sequence and thought that it was good for students, prepared them well and integrated a lot of statistics into the program,” Gartner said. “But, with Common Core, a lot of statistics is being integrated into the middle school [curriculum] and Algebra 1 and Algebra 2. While statistics remains very important, we don’t think it needs as much emphasis in that Precalculus course as it once did.” Although this change has not yet been approved, Gartner acknowledges

the Algebra 3 course in the ‘studies’ sequence. This was a direct result of the switch to Common Core. “Because of changes with Common Core pushing more and more material earlier and making courses more and more rigorous, our Algebra 2 Studies has really become a more complete [...] experience for our students,” Gartner said. “[So] the Algebra 3 Studies [course] is now no longer needed.” With this change, students that complete Algebra 2 Studies will now be able to take a Precalculus class, which “We want Gartner believes

students by allowing them to advance further in math and be better prepared for college. “Moving to a one-year Precalculus, I think, [would] open doors for some [students] who really would like to have that senior year option of taking an AP Statistics or an AP Calculus [course],” Gartner said. According to Gartner, these changes -

to make sure that we’re not just teaching content, but students are learning and engaged.” - Phillip Gartner, Math Department instructional supervisor

ROBOTIC ROUTES: Adjusting the settlings on his robot, sophomore Colb Uhleman (front) attempts to perfect its programming. Uhleman acts as a mentor to freshman Aidan Sochowski (not pictured) as a part of the STEM Learning Community buddy program. Photo by Sophie Mason

STEM pilots new buddy program hopes for each freshman to have a soph- freshman year, STEM or making friends,” omore classmate they feel comfortable Roberts said. “I introduced her to people reaching out to for in my grade [and] “Whenever I have a ques- gave her tips.” The Science, Technology, Engineering assistance. and Mathematics (STEM) Learning Com“All the sophoFreshman tion [...] [my buddy] can munity, South’s new science and applied mores took physMatt Moran’s help me out because he technology educational track, has devel- ics last year, and all mentor, sophoped a buddy program that pairs a fresh- the freshman are Jimwent through it already.” omore man with a sophomore mentor. currently in physmy Palmer has - freshman Matt Moran STEM teacher Michael Sinde explained ics, so if they have helped him simithat because the program was implement- a question about larly. Moran ed last year, the sophomores this year are physics they can talk to their STEM buddy says he meets with his buddy once or the only ones able to share their experi- or big brother/sister and get help with it,” twice each week, typically for a few ences and provide help if the freshmen Sinde said. minutes during lunch to discuss have questions outside of class. Sinde According to Sinde, STEM teachers sent what Moran is working on. out a mass email to the “Whenever I have a question on freshman and sopho- something we’re working on or on mores at the start of the the course, he can help me out because he went through it already,” Mothe program and telling ran said. each student the name Sophomore Abby Grant also quickly of their mentor or men- contacted her mentee. She helped by givtee. Ideally, after receiving tips and pointers on how to study, exing their buddies, one plaining the tendencies and expectations student would contact of certain teachers, and advising on ways the other—like sopho- to get involved with the school. Grant took more Katie Roberts did the mentorship as more than just a rewith her buddy, fresh- sponsibility to help her buddy with STEM man Shannon Schmidt. concepts. “When we found out “If I were a freshman, I’d love to have a who our mentees were, I sophomore telling me how to get through emailed [Shannon], and high school,” Grant said. “I think that’s the we started texting, and idea behind [the buddy program], to kind PLAYFUL PROJECT: Taking pride in her work, sophomore KathI just asked her if she of act like big sisters and big brothers to ryn Park puts together a robot she will later program. Park is in needed any help with these students.” the sophomore level STEM class. Photo by Sophie Mason LAUREN BENSON

the future. “There may be a night that they’re working on their homework during their senior year where they’re feeling like, ‘Oh, I wish this class were easier’,” Gartner said. “But, they might appreciate it the next year when they don’t have to take a math class for no credit, because they placed into a higher math course or they’re able to place out of math completely [...] because they were so well-prepared from that Precalculus [course].” According to Gartner, another change that is being discussed is the possible merge of the Precalculus with Statistics and Precalculus Discrete classes into a one-year Precalculus course, which, if approved, will likely be

to approach the change in content required by Common Core, teachers may also need to take into consideration the pacing of the class and their instructional practices. “We want to make sure that we’re not just teaching content, but students are learning and engaged, and they’re having opportunities to problem-solve and discuss and collaborate [with each other],” Gartner said. According to Gartner, some of these changes might make the curriculum more challenging for students. However, he believes that they will be able to work through it and that it will be an appropriate challenge which will help to prepare them for college and their future. “For some students, it can mean a little bit more [of a] challenge and needing to work hard and get help from their teachers, [...] and we know that our students can do that,” Illustration by Jini John Gartner said.

Freshmen compete in coding competition, create original website ANUSHKA KALRA

A team of four GBS freshmen, Nicholas Ermolov,

ber.

did.

ner. at noon.

BRO CODE: Collaborating in website creation, freshmen Nicholas Ermolov, Ahmed Malik, Jesus Crespo and Matt Moran -

(seated) receive instruction from a coding expert. The boys coded for a full 24 hours and learned valuable skills along the way. Photo courtesy of Mike Sinde

news

Nov. 6, 2015

District 225 plans to upgrade technology GRACE SHIN asst. news editor

“Even now, with the wired [computers] we’re still

and many times that slows down to a crawl.” - David Rogers, Computer Science teacher

editorial

The editorial expresses the opinion of the majority of the editorial board and not necessarily that of the publisher, adviser, school administration or staff. Nov. 6, 2015

Efforts to alleviate student stress require unified action It is commonly believed that many students associate a negative mindset with school. While school reus in the long run, it has come to the attention of the Oracle Editorial Board that students often feel overwhelmed by the amount of school work and exams they are receiving. Oracle-conducted survey of 304 students, 92 percent of students said that they sometimes to always feel stressed or overwhelmed because of school. Therefore, the Oracle Ediapproaches to how school can be made a composed learning environment, rather than a cycle of hassle and anxiety. TEACHERS Teachers are entitled to teach by their own methods, but the Oracle Editorial Board suggests that teachers keep in mind that students have a life outside of academics, whether it be involvement in clubs, a job or participation in a sport. With that in mind, the Editorial Board recommends that departments communicate with one another during students’ most sressful times of the school year. According to social worker David Hartman, these and before school breaks. To alleviate stress at these points of the year, the Oracle Editorial Board suggests ers must abide by during high pressure times of the school year. The schedule would contain days that each department are allowed to schedule exams. Also, as prefaced in the Health Department, the Oracle Editorial Board encourages teachers to hand out “Give me a break passes.” The Health Department uses these to give students extensions on homework assignments or free time in the hallway for half the block to catch up on work. The purpose of these passes is to help students “buy their sanity.” According to give students the option to prioritize their work or “We have all been in a situation where we just can’t imagine how we are going to get it all done,” pass gives students choices, and everyone feels less stressed when they have choices. For example: ‘Do it now and get no sleep’, or ‘Use a pass and get it done during SRT tomorrow.’ It allows students to learn to prioritize and use the helpful tools that are made

available to them.” Teachers can become more involved and aware of the other workloads of their students, thus being conscientious of the students’ overall performance and the overall understanding of the subject at hand, if the student is not burdened with studying for other exams or completing other assignments. PARENTS/GUARDIANS It is conventional for some guardians to check their student’s’ grades online regularly. Though it is healthy to be involved with your student’s academic life, constantly checking PowerSchool may add unnecessary pressure on them. The Oracle Editorial Board would like to stress the importance of establishing an understanding relationship between guardian and student. In the case of some parents, if the high demand of good academic standing is not met, it increases chances of failure and punishment for the student. It is necessary to explain poor academic performance, but simply reprimanding the student will not lead to an immediate increase in GPA. Students are compelled to perform well because of the pressure placed upon them by those who expect highly of them: guardians. For senior Colton Davis*, who is taking all AP and role in motivating him to perform well academically. “I very much feel the need to succeed in school as it’s been instilled in me that truly there is no other option,” Davis said. “I, like many from this area, come from a family who has ‘succeeded’ in their lives and has this ideal path to success in their mind. Therefore, it is only natural that I also believe education and future security are synonymous.” According to Davis, there were times that his parents resorted to unreasonable punishment and questioned his capability. Though he now holds a seemingly strict frame of mind concerning his academic performance because of his parents, Davis does think that it had a positive outcome to help him in the future. “In the long run, I suppose [my parents’ pressure to do well] was positive,” Davis said. “I’m applying to top schools, and I’ve performed very highly in all things academic beyond this point.” While it is important to see to it that your child succeeds academically and socially, it is equally as important to allow your child to succeed at their own rate. Though some guardians believe that support and stress upon good grades will lead to greater ac-

is published monthly by students at Glenbrook South High School, 4000 W. Lake Ave., Glenview, IL 60026. The opinions expressed in the Oracle are that of the writer(s) and not necessarily of the staff or school. The Oracle neither endorses nor rejects the products and services advertised.

editors-in-chief Lauren Frias Hannah Mason Dani Tuchman news editors Katie Cavender John Schurer opinions editors Evan Sawires Elaine Sine features editors Alexandra Sharp Anne Marie Yurik a&e editors Mollie Cramer Hannah Rauh

complishments, the best that you can do for them to A’s in their transcript, but rather the lucrative take all comprehension. STUDENTS All in all, students, it is placed upon you to seek your own threshold. Some are more inclined to challenge themselves, while others prefer to stay within their comfort zone and take classes up to their academic caliber. In either approach, the Oracle Editorial Board advocates that students seek their own academic rigor and learn for themselves. This applies to extracurricular activities as well. Though we are expected to be well-rounded students both academically and outside of school, cer-

ent things, but I think that one thing that everybody ignores is the fact that they need to destress [after] all the activities or sports or school classes they are talking to somebody that you are close with, whether it is a friend or teacher that you trust or a parent or sibling, and let them know that you are stressed. I feel like the worst thing you could do is lie to yourself and thing [even though you can’t].” *Names have been changed

to make sure that no one individual is spread too thin. “Students need to recognize that they need to balance things,” Hartman said. “They don’t have to do everything. They don’t have to be in AP classes all the time. They don’t have to do all these things all the time, and it’s okay, sometimes, to do less.” However, if it comes to a point that a student is unable to reevaluate and reassess their plan of action, there are plenty of informed adults around the school to help you out. According to senior Bridget Fogarty, co-president of Buoy club, which focuses on destressing students, student stress is commonly ignored in our community. She believes that, in order to improve the situation, one must seek out help. “We, as a school, do such

sports editors Georgia Arvanitis Samantha Casey photos editors Ashley Clark Jacqueline DeWitt asst. news Grace Shin Sasha Vassilyeva asst. opinions Jonathan Lee Lilly Ludwig asst. features Leah Dunne Maddy Ruos Gracie Sands Olivia Sotirichos

Graphic by Jacqueline DeWitt

asst. a&e Nick Moran Hwa Oh asst. sports Sophie Hensley Cassidy Jackson asst. photos Sophie Mason adviser Marshall Harris gbsoracle@gmail.com “The Glenbrook South Oracle”

@GBSOracle @gbsoracle

opinions

Nov. 6. 2015

Pursuing dreams allows for realistic career path

‘Free the Nipple’ sparks debate, abolishes prejudice

ELAINE SINE co-opinions editor

JONATHAN LEE asst. opinions editor

At a young age, I wanted to be many things. I had career dreams ranging from a professional soccer player to an ice-cream truck driver. As I’ve grown older, those ideas now are merely dreams. Although we may have had so many dreams in the past, we shouldn’t forget them, but rather work possible. As high schoolers, those dreams we had are now forgotten or thought of only once in a while. For seniors especially, it’s the year when you guys choose your future and dently say that you’ve had a career in mind at a very young age and have continued with that goal. But for others, it’s the complete opposite. Because society makes it seem that our dreams are simply “dreams”, you have choquirements of reality, or having a job that is actually achievable. A wise man by the name of Tupac once said, “Reality is wrong. Dreams are for we didn’t have dreams, we would be living for nothing. Live for dreams, not for others. Obviously, I can just ramble on and on about this idea, and you might not take anything away from this. To be honest, if I were to be reading this I would be thinking, “This Asian kid sounds like my mom.” But the truth is, dreams are so important in life, and at times we forget how much they impact us. We think of dreams as simply “dreams”. When we think of dreams we don’t think of them with any value. When we make goals, many times we don’t succeed. We’ll try to succeed for a little bit, but sooner or later we think of it as impossible, and we settle for something easier. Clearly, this is our problem. When we think of role models like Michael Jordan or Ellen Degeneres, we think to ourselves, “I wish I could be like them.” Then that’s that, and we continue on with our life. We think that they had a lucky break, and they were born with their talent. However, they earned their position. They were just like us and had a dream at a young age. Then, unlike us, they worked to reach their dream, and through determinaSure, I’m just an average kid that likes his bread without the crust, so I might not have the credentials to tell you what to do. But as the infamous Shia LaBeouf once said, “DON’T LET YOUR DREAMS BE DREAMS... MAKE YOUR DREAMS COME TRUE. JUST DO IT!” So, why are we not doing this? And who knows: maybe I’ll become a professional soccer player, and I can just become an icecream truck driver on the weekends. Nothing is impossible.

The less clothing I wear, the more comfortable I am. In fact, when I was a toddler, every time my family wrestled me into sweaters and jeans during the winter, I squirmed out of them in exchange for a tiny t-shirt and shorts, thinking only of my comfort and not if it was enough to brace the cold. Therefore, while scrolling through my Facebook one evening and landing on a video titled, “These women are going topless, but it’s for a very good reason!”, I watched as the Free the Nipple campaign merged into my knowledge, thus unabashedly becoming a supporter of the movement. Free The Nipple is a national and worldwide equality movement meant to defy the stigma against the female body, according to freethenipple.com. Women walk around topless to protest the censorship of their nipples and general repression of their decisions regarding their bodies. Even in states where being topless is legal, such as New York, women still get arrested. However, although my protest against clothing wasn’t problematic for me as a child, it became more so as I grew older. It actually became very “slutty”, as noted by many adults and former friends. Moreover, after voicing my support for Free the Nipple, I began receiving lewd and sexually-suggestive support or undisguised confusion for my opinion. For those of you who disagree or sexualize women’s rights to be topless, let me ask this: why are nipples sexual? Scratch that. Why are women’s nipples to walk around without a shirt? In a YouTube video created by Mic, these were what some men felt about the idea of women walking around topless: “I would be like, ‘I can’t take my eyes “I think it would cause a lot of attention, probably distractions.” “Women are more sexual than men.” Excuse me? Is it sexual or distracting when men walk around with their nipples fully bare to the world when they go to the beach or run around the block? Or has that become a norm you’ve grown accustomed to? Until 1936, it wasn’t legal for men to be half-naked, according to freethenipple.com. So 75 years ago, it actually

women’s nipples. Free the Nipple, a movie directed by Lina Esco, examines this movement in detail. Photo credit to IFC Films

wasn’t normal for men to be without a column), but because of the clothes I’ve shirt, either. It’s only because men had worn in the past. Whether my shirts too fought for this right that males today sleeveless, my shorts too short, or my have the blessed freedom to walk around clothes just labeled to be overall “revealwithout caging themselves in a shame- ing,” I was plainly ridiculed because of ful stigma. layers of clothes I didn’t wear. Plus, breasts are not fundamentally sexual in other cultures, not for men nor skirt in middle school, a girl friend of women. In her book, Breasts: The Women’s mine couldn’t see past the largeness of Perspective on an American Obsession, Caro- my thighs and teased me relentlessly lyn Latteier cites about them. If Women’s bodies have an interview she I ever showed had with an an“too much cleavbecome pornographic, thropologist in age”, older lashameful and mannerless dies remarked, Mali, an African country where in the eyes of people today. “What kind of women walk girl do you want But what good does that around without boys to think you having to cover are?” do for anyone? their breasts. I want boys “[The women in Mali are] always to know I’m a grown woman who has a feeding their babies,” Latteier wrote. body she’s not ashamed to show, and I “When she told them that in our cul- want everyone else to understand there ture men are fascinated with breasts, is something wrong in attempting to there was an instant of shock. The wom- humiliate ladies because of whatever en burst out laughing. They laughed so shame they stigmatize with a woman’s body. ‘You mean, men act like babies?’” People tell me to respect myself beOverall, I’m not just blaming the atti- cause they don’t want people to think tudes of men who oversexualize my and I’m “sending the wrong message” or bemany other women’s choices regarding cause I was “doing it for attention.” I rethe amount of skin we show. Women spect my body, and I’m doing it for my also like attacking other women based own comfort. Why can’t my decisions for on their clothing or lack thereof. my own body be considered respectful? I’ve been called a slut or slutty on Honestly, it’s not the issue of the law multiple occasions, almost exclusively anymore, because there is an extent of by girls and women. Not on the basis of “topless freedom” for women in Illinois, any sexual promiscuity (which is also according to TIME. The unfortunate reality we’re now faced to realize is that

it’s the social stigma for this sexist measure and how every one of us will judge another person’s decision regarding their own body. Am I happy that I could go around the city of Chicago topless whenever I want? Heck yes. But will I actually be brave enough to do it? Not in the near future, because of all fat-shaming, slut-shaming and the other degradations I’ve endured. Women’s bodies have become pornographic, shameful and mannerless in the eyes of people today. But what good does that do for anyone? It holds the image can’t handle the image of a woman’s body in everyday life. It demonstrates a disconnect between women who will attack each other without realizing this

Do we want to prove these degrading presumptions of humanity to be true? It feels like people are giving up at this point and saying, “Haven’t we given women enough?” People, there’s still so much work to

Assumption of failure proves unjust in decision to drop classes

DANA SIM columnist

There is a girl who takes six AP classes, leads three clubs, participates in two sports and works from 6 to 9 every night. She comes home, skips dinner and does she goes to school and repeats the cycle. There is no sleep, time to spend with friends or family, period of calm or relaxation. Instead, all this person can fret about is the next AP Bio exam or paper due for AP English. This is not healthy. At South, there are plenty of students

Photo by Sophie Mason

A NOD TO NIPPLES: Marching down the street, women parade around New York City without shirts in protest of the laws that censor

of a workload. From enrolling in too many honors courses to participating

themselves overburdened with school work. The most sensible thing to do is to drop some of these classes, side activities or extracurriculars, but sometimes that option is not viable. Parents oftentimes will push their child to do more, believing the workload just needs getting used to. Other times, it is a matter of wanting to look good for future colleges and scholarships. But if the student is getting four hours of sleep a night and drinking six cups of they reconsider their decisions. Drop the class or the activity that is taking up all your time. To some, it’s super obvious, but to others, it’s the worse decision of their lives. I’m

writing to tell you it’s not, because if you get back two extra hours of sleep from dropping AP Psychology, then you have a higher chance of winning that soccer tournament. You lose some, but you will almost always gain as well. There will always be another class, another activity or another opportunity. At the present, the current choice might also another side to this coin: sticking through it.

Photo by Sophie Mason

week of my AP European History class, I seriously thought I was going to die. I was barely sleeping and doing anything but studying day in, day out. I was ready to drop it. However, I knew that if I were to drop it, I would be plagued with regret. What if I actually could have managed

through this class? What if I actually might have liked the class? Of course, dropping classes may not be the best decision for everyone. “what ifs”, then dropping might not be in your best interest. Regret is never a good feeling to have. And I can say from experience that AP Euro only got easier. Over time, I learned how to manage harder classes and work on tighter time schedules. Struggling is only part of the learning process. in your decision. When you look back at your high school career, will you approve of that decision? Or will you live with regret?

opinions

Nov. 6, 2015

Graphic by Ashley Clark

High school relationships build positive experiences most of my peers have found that it’s easier to do high school while single. And that’s okay. High school is a great time to learn about other people, and for some, that can be done by

LILLY LUDWIG asst. opinions editor

I’ve been dating my boyfriend, Alex, for almost three years. There’s no getting around it; that’s a pretty long time to do anything. However, we’ve managed to grow up together while maintaining a real friendship, so what started as some pretty awkward, freshman year dates has turned into a deep and genuine interest for the well-being of one another. most people in my life tend to take our relationship as more of a pastime than a fundamental part of our lives. People generally assume that because we are young, the feelings must not be genuine. While high school relationships aren’t for everyone, they are for some, and they should be respected like any other relationship. Young relationships have a reputation for inevitable failure, but I think this is only true because most are and how to be okay with who they are. It can be emotionally taxing to face all the stress of high school while also committing to another person. Alex and I were able to navigate through high school while using each other as support and growing together, but

That doesn’t mean, though, that those who choose to be in a committed relationship are missing out either. Long-term relationships can be extremely valuable learning experiences. Being committed to someone teaches you what’s okay to do in a relationship and what’s not, and how to treat people that you care about. It teaches you

to get the most A’s or join the most clubs. What will and received because loving someone is a source of joy. Alex has been there for almost all of my happy memories of high school. He’s been my best friend for that’s something that’s made me happy. I think the biggest reason people discourage the are losing our identities in another person. But this concept disregards the difference between a healthy relationship and an unhealthy relationship, and a sense of identity and independence is necessary for any healthy relationship. The other fear, of course, is that heartbreak is almost guaranteed. In all relationships, someone is bound to mess up or say something they’ll regret. If they don’t, then someone else is going to go to college out of

The reality is that we can’t choose to fall in and out of love with people the way we choose which classes to take and which clubs to join.

you patience, forgiveness and the meaning of honesty. It teaches you what vulnerability feels like and the value of someone else’s trust. These are all things I would have struggled to learn had I decided that being in a relationship wasn’t for me. They are values I have spent the last three years of high school learning, and I am better because of that. But I already have school and extracurriculars and a future to worry about! A boyfriend isn’t necessary when I already have so much on my plate! Right? Not so much. The reality is that we can’t choose to fall in and out of love with people the way we choose which classes to take and which clubs to join. Caring about someone isn’t a choice. It just happens. And, honestly, what’s so bad about nurturing feelings for someone else if you’re in a place where you’re emotionally ready to do so? The purpose of life is not

young people. The most hurtful part of high school relationships, however, is that ultimately we are still in high school. So people do things like start rumors, make assumptions and ask personal questions. People gossip. There have been days where I’ve shown up to school and heard things about my relationship that just aren’t true, and I know that other couples go through this horror too. I think sometimes students forget that relationships are extremely personal, regardless of age. As much as you like to think you know about your peers, relationships are complex, and there is always much more beneath the surface than what you see in the hallways. I know that for me, my relationship has been an incredibly positive aspect of my high school career. It has been a source of constant support and unlimited acceptance. So to all my romantics out there, don’t let anyone discourage you from listening to your heart. Relationships can be scary, but I can tell you from a lot

Heartbreak is scary, but with it brings lessons we will all need to learn eventually. Heartbreak teaches you how to forgive, how to bounce back, how to compromise, how to solve problems with someone that you care about and also how to let go. People tend to judge high school relationships as if there’s some rule that says all people must be a certain age before they are emotionally mature enough to handle a relationship, but there isn’t, nor should there be.

Vulnerability leads to increased trust, stronger friendships lives, depression. According to the National Alliance of Mental Illness, an estimated 16 million Americans — nearly 7 percent of the population — had a least one depressive episode last year. Though I can’t say that I’ve ever where I similarly struggled with vulnerability in both seeking and requesting help when problems have risa result of this experience, I’ve slowly started to acalone. To practice the concept of vulnerability and accountability, my pastors at church asRegardless of the topic, my closest friends know signed each of our youth group leaders a Frithat I have a natural tendency to passionately and day night where they would share their perblatantly speak of all the things that displease me. For sonal testimonies. One night in particular, example, I hate when I get kicked out of the library the speaker had relinquished some of her when all I’m doing is eatdeepest and darkest ing my lunch and hudThough I Being vulnerable can be struggles. dling around a crowdsat there in awe of ed table. But above all, dangerous and risky...but her courage, I questhere’s nothing more tioned her openness it’s not nearly as danger- of being able to talk devastating than walking into the cafeteria afous as giving up on love about such painful ter a long morning only experiences. and belonging. Once the speaker tion is closed. It’s safe to say that a lot of my personal resentopened up a time to practice our vulnerability by talking with someone we trusted. Knowing There are millions of individuals around the world where this was headed, I tried sneaking out to who deal with much more pressing issues such as povthe bathroom until service had ended, but my erty, illness and arguably the most prevalent in our friend stopped me before I could leave. Thus, CHARLIE YOU columnist

we headed over to a quiet corner of the room. Quite to my surprise, however, I began talking about my family. Without even realizing, I had broken out in tears, and all my friend could do was hold and cry along with me. Knowing my friend possessed such intense pieces of information about me made me uncomfort he had given me, I did feel a lot better. I wish I could say that since that Friday night, I have made tremendous strides in becoming a more trustworthy and open person, but I can’t. Change requires a long period of time, and for me, I’m still struggling with mustering the courage to ask for help when I need it. The leap of faith that I took by opening myself up to my friend broke down the layers of our friendship entailed. This deeper connection allows us to look towards one another for encouragement in our darkest moments. I think that’s the ultimate message that I’ve learned

sult of not wanting to share our burdens is an inevitable aspect that we will all eventually have to overcome. I thought that by numbing my sadness and insecurities, I could rid myself of any past painful memories, as well as prevent any undesirable events in the future. Simultaneously, however, I was disallowing myself the ability to feel joy and companionship. Becoming vulnerable can be dangerous and risky because we’re unsure of what consequences may emerge from placing such a high level of trust in somebody else, but it’s not nearly as dangerous as giving up on love and belonging. In order to feel more connected, loved, wholehearted and most importantly, worthy, I’ve realized that accepting my vulnerability is a risk worth taking. For those stubborn people who believe that they can handle their emotional burdens all by themselves, they’ll be quick to realize the impossibility of the task at hand. If they truly want it, help is only a phone call away: they just have to be brave enough to ask for it.

features

Nov. 6, 2015

Illustration by Jini John

Extra credit policies vary across school LEAH DUNNE asst. features editor

Extra credit, whether it is used as a tool to further knowledge of course curriculum or just as a little a B. Extra credit is an aspect of course policy, which Extra credit policies vary, because they lie within the discretion of the teacher in both the content of believes that extra credit work, from her perspective, is not as valuable as work implemented within the can come to her at any time seeking to complete an extra credit assignment. “I believe in the word extra, when you’re talking an extra credit opportunity, I want to see that the learning opportunities that I’ve created thus far have been taken advantage of... [Extra credit] opportunities aren’t as valuable to me as a teacher, as a learner, as a grader, as [the assignments] that I have built into the course for [all students].” believes that extra credit is unfair because it is an adexplained that for her, extra credit just builds more stress and brings unnecessary pressure. ni said. “[Extra credit] is similar to doing that extra homework, on top of the homework that you already have to do. Plus you have so many other classes...I think the pressure [of completing extra credit] is also another big thing. If I don’t complete it and everyone else does, then I’ll be the one that is missing out, but something that’s actually due.” Junior Dhanya Thomas explained that for her, out of class assignments. However, Thomas said she -

tive. Thomas noted those questions force her to view tra credit questions instead of the content on the test. “I prefer actually doing [an extra credit assignment] outside [of class time] versus doing extra credit

at a level above them, so hopefully it’s a real learning experience.”

assignment, and explained that although the tissue boxes and Post-It notes were not directly academically related, as the year progresses, the supplies will

students to attend an event in the deaf community.

that the opportunity of bringing in supplies did not all class grade. “The extra credit that was given for bringing in a box of tissues or the post it notes was very minimal, it [was worth] two points,” Hoover said. “The post it notes are something that we use for academic purpose. We make comments on them, we demonstrate our learning, and respond to other students’ coming [supplies] in their academic life.” In comparison to how Flores feels about the importance of connecting extra credit opportunities to curriculum, Michael Sinde, “Project Lead The Way”

test I’m just so prone to think mostly about the extra credit, trying to get that right instead of actually worand 463 students are required to attend two events, rying about the test itself,” Thomas said. but students who attend more than what is required pleting assignments that require out of class attendance is not always possible due to after school activities. “I think it’s better that munity event I have never [teachers] offer any chance got a negative response back US History 163 class, an as- for each person to have an [from a student]... so going tend a movie pertaining to in[community events] have extra credit opportunity, be- to class curriculum. For students been very positive, and enunable to attend, an alternate cause then it allows every- couraging [for students],” reading assignment was ofone to participate [in receiv- go to events outside of school, fered, allowing others to have the opportunity to do extra ing extra credit].” it’s an experience they would credit. never be able to have in the junior Danielle Callas “I think that it’s better that classroom, because I can only try to recreate a deaf environfor each person to have an extra credit opportunity, ment in the classroom.” because then it allows everyone to participate [in reIn addition to extra credit test questions and project opportunities, sophomore Tess Flores explained assignments, such as bringing in Post-It notes or tisprior to oral presentations or assessments is a good student in their speaking skills. “[The purpose of going] wouldn’t necessarily be for a presentation, but it may be in preparation for some kind of assessment, like additional practice “[Students] can use this opportunity in context [to cause they’re probably learning from someone who is

this year have not been academically related to the class curriculum. “Most of the extra credit assignments I’ve gotten haven’t been related to the curriculum, or to anything we have been learning [in class],” Flores said. “[The assignments] would just make you go out and spend a couple bucks for a better grade...I think that if there are going to be extra credit opportunities offered they should be related to what we are learning about in that class.” Katie Hoover, sophomore English teacher, expressed her views on the aforementioned extra credit

that does just that. Sinde explained that the extra levels, and the courses that he teaches, all being a stand alone opportunity for students to complete a related project outside of class, spanning throughout the entire year. “Extra credit for me has to be done outside of the traditional class,” Sinde said. “It may not be somedoing in the class, but something in addition to it… [The extra credit] either has to be to science, math, technology or engineering related...For example, last year a student coded a game. It’s not something we and beyond the regular curriculum, so I gave him extra credit for that.” how students feel about completing extra credit work, teachers primarily look for the work assigned in class. “I know there’s something glamorous about extra credit; it feels like you’re doing extra work, but it’s not the extra work the teachers are necessarily looking

Fall Edition: festive local activities

Walk through Chicago Botanic Garden

Wander through a local farmer’s market

the gardens while taking creative photos of the raphy contests where participants can submit their photos to win publication of their work.

farm” that makes available a diverse range of local -

ery month from 9-10 a.m., beginning on Nov. 7.

Enjoy locally grown food and special fall events such as a culinary garage sale or a chef barbecue

Photo courtesy of Creative Commons

Street, on Saturdays from 8 a.m.-1 p.m.

Make homemade farm-to-table jams

Photo courtesy of Chicago Botanic Garden

This delicious treat is simple and easy to make. Mix crushed strawberries in a saucepan with sugar while stirring pectin into the water. Let it stand for 10 minutes before bringing to a boil for another minute. Then stir the boiling water while adding the crushed strawberries. Let this stand for three minutes before pouring into a mason jar.

Photo courtesy of Creative Commons

features

Nov. 6, 2015

CELEBRATING CONNIE: Smiling at the camera, Connie Hoekstra and Deborah Stein, South’s Cure Club sponsor, participate in The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society’s annual “Light the Night Walk”. The duo pictured are just two members of the 200plus that marched on with Connie’s team, CONNquer, on Sunday, Oct. 25 in order to raise money and awareness for the cause. Photo courtesy of Deborah Stein

Hoekstra battles cancer, strengthened by supporters GRACIE SANDS asst. features editor

One moment has the power to change an entire lifetime. Connie Hoekstra, who graduated from South diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma cancer just a week before she was set to leave for Elon University this past September. After receiving the diagnosis, her mind immediately assumed the worst, because her family has a long history of battling with cancer. the word, but wasn’t exactly sure,” Hoekstra said. “I was super overwhelmed and started crying. In my family we have had a lot of people that have been affected by cancer. When my cousin Will was diagnosed his was terminal, so cancer is a really negative word in our family. You immediately think of all the horrible things you have to go through.” Despite the traumatic experiences that her family has gone through prior to discovering her diagnosis, Hoekstra found comfort in knowing the background behind her strain of cancer. “I was really nervous, so we did more research on lymphoma,” Hoekstra explained. “Mine is very curable and I’m really lucky. It wasn’t as nerve wracking after that, but in the moment I had such a negative view of what the next year would be like.” The overwhelming amount of support that she received prior to receiving her diagnosis has been her saving grace, according to Hoekstra. She believes that her friends and family have been instrumental in helping her maintain a positive outlook through her battle and hope for the future. In addition, the Glenbrook South community has been a huge support to Hoekstra, even after she graduated, which has meant the world to her. “It’s really interesting how many people [who] I haven’t seen in forever have reached out to me,” Hoekstra said. “My family was always insanely close, but I’ve gotten a lot closer to my aunts and cousins. It’s really crazy that even though I’ve graduated a lot

- thing. I think all the support she has is uplifting for ers have reached out. I’ve always loved how GBS is a her.” community, and GBS is still here for me even after Senior Bobby Quinn, Hoekstra’s cousin, has been graduated. I don’t really have anything like that in by her side every step of the way, and has had a very my life because I’m not going to school, so GBS has been a comshe is going through. Quinn “If someone had told me has always had a very close fort, knowing that people are there supporting me.” this would happen to me relationship with his cousAlong with Glenbrook South, in, but he realizes that she I wouldn’t have believed needs him now more than the community of Glenview as a whole has shown an incredible it, but I’m fighting with amount of compassion for Conformed of the diagnosis he this huge support system was stunned, but immedinie, according to her mother Eileen Hoekstra. Demonstrating behind me and I feel like ately showed his support. its support in more ways than “She was feeling reI’m seeing everything in ally sick before, and then one, the community has made she went to the doctor and the bigger picture.” easier. my mom called me saying -Connie Hoekstra “They’ve been bringing that they said she might have cancer,” Quinn said. “I gifts, they showed up for the beautiful Light The couldn’t believe it, but then the next day it was conNight and we had close to 200 people there supporting Connie,” Eileen said. “I have had friends say the when I got over the initial shock I realized that I had rosary for her and they’ve had a mass for her. I have to be there for her.” to say that the biggest thing has been the prayers that Eileen feels that witnessing Connie battle cancer is we get from this community. It’s just fabulous. People just think about her at all times and let them know would rather be ill herself than watch her own daughthey’re thinking of her. The community has been outstanding.” determination that Connie has displayed every step This past weekend The Leukemia and Lymphoma of the way. Society hosted their annual “Light the Night Walk” “It’s hard to watch your child be sick,” Eileen said. event, where over 200 people attended in support of “You just want the best for your children, and when - one is sick it’s hard. My husband and I would both be ed by her cousins and family. Both Connie and Eileen happy if it was one of us instead. We were all prepared were very overwhelmed by the turnout, and could not for her to go to college the next week, and we know have been more appreciative of the love and aid that that’s going to happen now next year and she has such they received. wonderful people who will be her new classmates. “I think she was overwhelmed, and she couldn’t We’re so proud of her.” believe how many people came out to support her,” Looking to the future, Hoekstra realizes that she Eileen said. “Her friends that are her age are all at has many crucial decisions to make. Due to the fact school, but she still had 200 people there. It was unbe- that Elon University is too far away, she is considering lievable for her, and she was just amazed by the whole attending schools within the state such as Universi-

䌀伀一一焀甀攀爀㨀䌀愀瀀琀甀爀椀渀最琀栀攀䌀漀洀洀甀渀椀琀礀 FRIENDS AND FAMILY:

(From left to right) Hoekstra and cousin Bobby Quinn at homecoming photos; Hoekstra after getting her hair dyed purple in honor of lymphoma before shaving her head; Hoekstra and father Brian, mother Eileen, and brother BJ; Hoekstra and her friends from South’s radio program. Photos courtesy of Connie Hoekstra

ty of Illinois or Illinois State University. She is hoping to attend college as a freshman next fall, but is concerned about the fact that her friends will be a year ahead of her in school by that time. “I applied to [University of] Illinois and I’m also really looking at Illinois State,” Hoekstra said. “I have some friends who go there who aren’t my best friends, so I wouldn’t feel weird that they’re technically older linois, so I feel like it would be hard going there as a freshman when all my friends are sophomores. I am so I’m going to make this decision when I’m healthier and my mind is clear.” Quinn understands that her cancer will inevitably have an impact on her life, but hopes that it will be for the best rather than for the worst. Quinn unceasingly believes in his cousin, and knows that she refuses to let cancer hold her back from reaching her full potential in life. “This time next year we hope that it was just a bad memory and it just fades away,” Quinn said. “We hope that it doesn’t make too big of a bad impact on her life and that it’s something that she can just get past, which I know she can.” Throughout this past year, Hoekstra has noticed a change within herself. This experience has really put things into perspective, and has provided her with knowledge that could only come from facing adversity. Although her battle with cancer has not yet been won, she feels that she already has in so many ways. “I think I’ve grown up a lot,” Hoekstra said. “After my car accident [senior year] I already just had a new take on life. I think I’ve become a stronger person because a lot of things have been thrown my way this year. If someone had told me this would happen to me huge support system behind me and I feel like I’m seeing everything in the bigger picture. I think I have a lot more knowledge of how life is than most people do at my age.”

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Info courtesy of Google

Graphics by Ashley Clark

Stress impacts mental health: LAUREN FRIAS & HANNAH MASON

co-editors-in-chief

Open up a Google Search. Type in the search bar,

Plunkett found it making her even more overwhelmed. Ultimately, this venture served to solidify her choice in going to Germany. “Last year felt very grade-based for me,” Plunkett ent philosophies about grades, and I think the goal was to make it less stressful, but it ended up making it very stressful. I started to think more about our system for school and I know that the German [one

“...cry”, “...cut myself,” “...throw up” and “...kill.” Often attributed to their amount of school work, some students are pushed to this extreme mind-set because of their overwhelming burdens. At South alone, this mentality is evident; in an another one would work.” When Plunkett’s plan didn’t work out because of Oracle-conducted survey of 304 students, 92 percent of students said that they were sometimes to always missed application deadlines, she decided to give stressed about school. With a plethora of factors con- GBS another shot. Correlating her predicament with tributing to this mind-set, Social Worker David Hart- the amount of work she got, Plunkett believes that man details that South students have a lot to deal the workload has gotten better now that the transition to the block schedule has ceased. with, granted the circumstances of our community. However, according to se“It’s not any“A lot of my teachers were trying nior Sarah Jane Rubenstein, body’s fault, but it’s an enormous to have different philosophies less work doesn’t excuse the gravity that is placed solely issue,” Hartman about grades, and I think the goal on academic performance. Acsaid. “It’s a whole bunch of factors was to make it less stressful, but cording to Rubenstein, presto perform well academiit ended up making it very stress- sure cally has, in a sense, placed less we’re a high-powful.” priority on actually learning ered school, we’re the content. a school where -junior Maeve Plunkett “[Academic pressure] itself kids are involved, is creating an atmosphere in we’re a community that has a lot of expectations. That’s going to af- our school and in our society that learning is second after getting good grades,” Rubenstein said. “It’s still fect a whole ton of kids.” Junior Maeve Plunkett is one of many students at possible to learn, so I wouldn’t say it’s been [comSouth who has experienced this disposition. In her pletely] destroyed. I just think that encouragement sophomore year, Plunkett considered transferring to from society and our parents and our teachers to Germany to take a semester of high school, detailing seek learning actively over grades has been crushed, that she already considered going to Germany for and that isn’t necessarily [their] faults. The whole system is messed up, where a better grade is more college and wanted an early start. “It felt like I was stuck in Glenview, stuck in high valuable than having more knowledge.” In the case of sophomore Chaerim Park, she beschool,” Plunkett said. “I wanted to get a head start on the things I am interested, and Germany was one of those things that I’m really passionate about. So, cess towards college. Always keeping an eye on the I considered going to Germany to take a semester of future, she said that it is overwhelming to have to worry more about the future compared to the preshigh school.” According to Plunkett, one of the sources of her ent. “I am currently taking a lot of hard courses, and Despite her teachers’ attempts to downplay the im- also, in terms of electives, I’m taking ones that would portance of grades and promote the idea of learning, look good on college applications as well to think ahead,” Park said. “For clubs, I heard that colleges

like a lot of involvement in school and activities, so I’ve been trying to do them as well. Everyone tries to think ahead to their futures. For me, as well, I tend to not focus on what is going on right now, but thinking ahead [to college]. I have to do well right now to be more successful in the future, but that’s how I get more stressed.” Some people develop illnesses from all this stress, as senior Jordan Chiappetta believes. She was sick able amount of school work in the process. Though her teachers have been good with extensions, Chiappetta said that she wouldn’t have even considered missing as much school as she did, afraid that hassle of catching back up will interfere with her grades. Now equipped with the changed mind-set that staypetta has a newfound understanding of dealing with her own physical and mental health. “In my earlier years of high school, if I was sick, I would just tough it out, and that ended up working against me,” Chiappetta said. “That initial mindset eventually caused me too much stress, and that’s when I realized that I really needed to make changes. Although I still keep a very rigorous academic schedule, I keep my priorities straight, and I have to be healthy before I go to school.” With all factors taken into consideration, the question is posed as to how the issue can be addressed. Nuanced as it is, Hartman believes that the solution can be pursued by delving into the root of “If there’s less work, will our students be less stressed? Yes,” Hartman said. “But that’s not really life though. There’s that old phrase, ‘Prepare the child for the path, not the path for the child.’ For me, I would approach this problem, not from a systemic perspective of ‘What can teachers or the school happy to think about, from a teacher’s perspective, if we can give less work, but I’m most interested in the conversation about what we can do for our kids to help ently or better.”

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Illustration by Jini John

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Info courtesy of the Washington Post, 7hillscanvass.org, greatergood.berkeley.edu and www.bachelorsdegreeonline.com.

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匀漀甀琀栀匀琀甀搀攀渀琀

Info courtesy of Google

Graphics by Ashley Clark

Stress impacts mental health: LAUREN FRIAS & HANNAH MASON

co-editors-in-chief

Open up a Google Search. Type in the search bar,

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Info courtesy of the Washington Post, 7hillscanvass.org, greatergood.berkeley.edu and www.bachelorsdegreeonline.com.

HALLOWEEN

Nov. 6, 2015

TITAN TERRORS On Oct. 30, the a&e editors hosted the fifth annual Oracle costume contest, where South students expressed their individuality by dressing up in costumes ranging from creative to creepy. The editors would like to recognize the best of them below. MOLLIE CRAMER & HANNAH RAUH co-a&e editors

NICK MORAN & HWA OH asst. a&e editors

BEST MYSTERY SOLVERS

SCOOBY DOO GANG: ELLY GRACE HENN N JESSE TUTE LLY JOHN HENNE ELLY HOLLY HENN ELLY QUINN HENN

Photos by Jacqueline DeWitt

GREY ANATOM ’S Y DOCTO

RS: HANNAH R A U H GEORGIA AR ALYSSA VANITIS CARA CASEY C SOTTI OLETTA

MOST LIKELY TO SAVE A LIFE

GREY’S TORS: C MY DO TLEY O T A N A HAR

H HANNA SPINGOLA ISABEL O’DEA MARY ARA ALI O’H

BEST WILDERNESS EXPLORERS

CUTEST COUPLE OY SHARK B AND L: LAVA GIR

UN IYA BAK S A T S A AN AVILES ANDREW

CARL A RUSSEL F ND ROM “UP ”: DAVID BE RK RAYMON SON D LARA

BEST TIME TRAVELERS TY MAR : LY MCF

ANE SON K E I R R A H JUSTIC LEONE

MARVEL SUPERHERO ES: RAZA SIMM ALEX SIRAK IDES ADAM LEY BECKETT C UMM GEORGE TA INGS NTCH STEPHEN S EV HOLTY

BRAVEST SQUAD

features

Nov 6 ,2015

Dravid pursues taekwondo, music COADY RAAB & ELIZA SCHLOSS

Talented. That is just one of the many words Amita Dravid, mother of freshman Amil Dravid, uses to describe her son. According to Amita, Amil is pursuing his interests in music and taekwondo. Amil is currently a member of South’s marching band drum line, and participates

to take a challenge head on, Spencer Peterson, sophomore drum line member, explained how he sees this same quality in Amil. According to Peterson, he see’s Amil’s drive and determination translate into Amil’s

Amil’s high school band career, and looks forward to where he will go. “At the end [of auditions], we had to pick who is on drum line and [Amil] was chosen [for that],” Wojick said. “So it’s based on his talent and ability to audition and play. [Amil] is learning. I hope we’re bringing something to him.” tition in 2012, and received second place overall. In comparison to Wojcik’s hopes for growth and improvement in drumline, Amil explained how he applied this same idealogy into his Taekwondo follow-

South’s drum line as a whole. “As a musician, I think that [Amil] is very advanced for his age,” Peterson said. “Last year myself as a freshman, I wasn’t at the same level as [Amil] is as a freshman. He has a certain attitude about him…. son’s life since he was in grade school and has been He just has a certain drive [in music], he’s so his passion since then. determined with anything he wants to do... I “Whenever he had a prob“[Amil] just loves music, ever since he was in secwouldn’t be surprised if what he does [after ond grade,” Amita said. “He originally started [play- lem he would fix it. [Amil] school] is he goes home and does homework nerve racking,” Amil said.“I was so scared... I just remember it being ing] piano, then guitar, then bass. He didn’t start and then just drums, forever.” drums until maybe four years ago. [Amil] just loves wants to challenge himself Amil explained how at a young age drums, [playing the drums] is his main passion. and that’s what he did.” he was in need of a way to relieve stress, watching other people [compete].” When he plays his drums, he just forgets everything which brought him to his discovery of -Amita Dravid around him.” taekwondo in sixth grade. Achis subsequent feelings and views regarding the sport have Amita also explained how she believes her son’s cording to Amil, the role that taechanged. success in taekwondo and music, relates to kwondo played in his life was initially a stress reliever, and “I don’t know why taekwondo got to me, but I just love all Amil’s ability to take a challenge head on. According to Amnow as an activity he is pursuing. the kicking and focus,” Amil said. “[Taekwondo] is not just “I kind of needed a stress relief, because when I was bik’s Cube. He moved from the three-by-three cube to the younger I would stress over little things,” Amil said. As Amil’s views on taekwondo have evolved over the “Then my mom suggested taekwondo. We looked past three years, so have his musical ones. Amil exnoted her son’s ability to take on a challenge, and around and found this great place, AKYI Taekwonplained his spark in music at a young age, and how how he continued to work through the do, and that’s how it all started.” this once simple curiosity has become one of his obstacles he had According to Amil, although he is only in his third passions in life. faced. year into his taekwondo program at AKYI taekwondo, he “Whenhas made it to various taekwondo tournaments. Amita ex70’s and 80’s songs,” Amil said. “I found [this muever he had plained that in her eyes one of Amil’s greatest achievements in taesic] really cool to listen to, and my dad taught me a a problem lot [about music] too. he would spite injuries he had prior to the competition. Amita explained how every summer Amil takes “[Amil] hurt his leg just before [state], and it was really bad,” Amita his musical aspirations to India to raise money for ita said. said. “... He was advised [by the doctors] against going to state.. an impoverished school. According to Amita, over “[Amil] Then [after] three or four days he was feeling better...and then he Amil’s trip to India last summer he held a rock concert wants to went to [state], and I totally supported him because I knew how imto help raise funds for the school, which contributed to challenge portant [competing] was to him.” student scholarships. himself and According to Amil, he channels his hard work and dedi“He’s so talented, and focused,” Amita said. “[Amil] is that’s what he cation from taekwondo and implements this into his music. Greg always looking for new techniques [he can use in drumdid.” Wojcik, South’s band director, explained how Amil has become one of ming and taekwondo]...He likes to put his talent to use In comparison to how Amita the few freshman to be on South’s Drumline, in June of 2015. Accordwhich surprises me because he is so young.” feels about her son’s ability of being able ing to Wojcik, he hopes to be able to help Amil not Drumming Dude: While marching in band practice, freshman Amil Dravid only to improve as a drummer, but also to help him KICK TO WIN: Showcasing his kick and black belt, freshman Amil Dravid competes in front of judges at USA’s taekwondo scans ahead towards his fellow drumline mates to stay in formation. grow as a person. Wojcik noted that he is excited for (USAT) national competition in Austin, Texas in July 2015. Photos courtesy of Amil Dravid

features

Nov. 6, 2015

Photo Illustration

Photo by Sophie Mason

Individuals resist Islamophobic subtleties MADDY RUOS asst. features editor

teach in my own classes, one major work by a Mus-

Ahmed Mohamed- a young Muslim student from Texas who was suspended and arrested recently when his teachers assumed the homemade clock he brought to school was a bomb- is not, as some may suggest, a rare case in which Muslim students experience prejudice against them. These traumatic events for Muslim students pose a serious question to the nation: just how rampant is Islamophobia in today’s school system? According to a 2013 survey conducted by the Council on AmericanIslamic Relations, about half of all Muslim-American students in California reported experiencing some type of “social bullying” in school. Western religions teacher Terrence Jozwik has made a point of abolishing any sterotypes that students may have prior to taking his class. He has students read “The Domestic Crusaders” as a part of the cirriculum, a play telling the story of a modern Muslim family and the struggles they face after the tragedy of 911. “[The book] dispels a lot of the stereotypes that we [have existed] with since 911 where we tend to see Islam and Muslims as one-dismensional, and they’re not,” Jozwik said. “Just like every other religion, every other faith, and they’re multi-dimensional.” Freshman Hafsah Shahzad says she has experienced discrimination because of her ethnicity and faith. She feels that most of the stereotyping against Muslims is rooted in ignorance and misunderstanding, which prompts people to say things they may not realize are hurtful. “When I was in third or fourth grade [...] I was walking to my friend’s house and someone said [to me] ‘Hey you terrorist’,” Shahzad said. “Also, the day Osama bin Laden was taken and killed, this [person] came up to my sister and said, ‘Are you sad that your dad died?’” Some schools nationwide are attempting to prevent Islamophobia by promoting a safe, respectful environment within the system. Nora Flanagan, an English Teacher at Northside College Prep in Chicago, has been involved in activism and research phobia for a number of years. She has taken steps in her own classroom garding students’ attitudes towards Muslims. “One of my projects over the last

I can take [...] to reduce the otherization of that group. It really makes them seem less abnormal if they’re part of our everyday learning structure.” Flanagan believes that intolerance of Muslims can be tied to decades of hate and insensitivity that has created a deep and institutionalized form of Islamophobia in the United States today. “Like any kind of discrimination, it can show up in a really broad range of forms,” Flanagan said. “It can show up as microaggression, but if you stand back a bit and look at it as a whole, it’s really the purest form of ignorance. We wouldn’t tolerate treatment like that of any other group in America, [but] we are much more tolerant of it for Muslims.” Junior Saarah Bhaiji has also experienced Islamophobia, but feels that for the

“I feel like we’ve come a long way, but we still have a long way to go. Young adults and students [today] have no patience for intolerance, hate and injustice. Which is just beautiful.” -Nora Flanagan, Northside Prep teacher, activist

tolerating student discrimination toward Muslims. However, she does express concern that sometimes when learning about events Muslims participated in, the information can be skewed or biased so that it comes across as anti-Islam. “There have been times where a teacher could be saying things against Islam and I don’t really have the authority to say anything,” Bhaiji said. “I’ve felt like sometimes we are getting the wrong information about Islam and they never talked with the Muslim Students Association beforehand [about it].” policy of prohibiting prejudice against Muslims, she knows that not all school systems have such a progressive atmosphere. Last year at Springman Middle School, Shahzad says she chose not to wear her hijab out of concern that she might get bullied. “I started thinking about it towards the beginning of May, so I talked to my mom and she told me to not wear [my hijab] at Springman because of incidents in the past with kids yelling out [slurs], but she knew GBS is a bigger and better school,”

Shahzad said. “The environment here is a lot more accepting, so I started wearing [my hijab] just this year and I really didn’t feel like I changed. I’m still the same person.” Like Shahzad, Senior Sarah Hussain has faced discrimination and recognizes that it has had some obvious detriments, but she still acknowledges that it’s been one of the best lessons she could have ever learned in her youth. “I try so hard to make sure that I’m never purposefully hurting anyone,” Hussain said. “As a kid I’ve grown up losing respect because of my last name and [my religion] so I always go out of my way to make sure that I start with respect. If I don’t know you at all, I start by respecting you as opposed to not.” According to Flanagan, the majority of prejudice against Muslims is rooted in ignorance and contempt that clouds the perception people have about Islam. However, she realizes that school systems have an important responsibility to counteract those negative attitudes by creating an environment in which students are more tolerant of

Graphic by Jacqueline DeWitt

“School is the place where students are supposed to get that exposure,” Flanagan said. “It’s not a substitute for the rest of your life, but it’s supand make less exotic and scary places in world.” Hussain, like Flanagan, believes Islamophobia is mostly caused by a general misunderstanding and insensitivity about Islam, which is then exacerbated by media slander that taints the attitudes of many unknowing Americans. She hopes that those words will impact others. “They may have been raised to have a certain feeling towards Muslims and that can always be hard to break out of, but I really challenge those people to think about who they’re hurting when they say those things,” Hussain said. “They have to realize at the end of the day that [those people] are all just humans on the same planet they are.” Bhaiji also agrees that the media plays a large rounding Muslim society by portraying Muslims in a negative way. She thinks that if the average person were more educated on what Islam actually looks like, they would be less likely to discriminate and marginalize Muslims in the “I think if I started talking to someone [about Islam] their entire viewpoint would change because the media portrays [Muslims] so badly,” Bhaiji said. Flanagan believes that despite the adverse condition for Muslims today, the changing attitudes of young people in the nation provide a sense of hope and reassurance that the issue of Islamophobia is moving in the right direction. “I feel like we’ve come a long way, but we still have a long way to go,” Flanagan said. “Young adults and students [today] have no patience for intolerance, hate and injustice. Which is just beautiful.”

Source: Counsel of American- Islam Relations Website

reviews

Nov. 6, 2015

FEDERALISTS WITH FUNK: Strutting and singing, Alexander Hamilton, played by actor and writer Lin Manuel Miranda, shocks his rival, Aaron Burr. With songs like “Burn” and “The Room Where It Happens,” the Hamilton Soundtrack features 23 different musical numbers from the original production. Photo courtesy of Joan Marcus

‘Hamilton’ soundtrack serenades with history -

EVAN SAWIRES co-opinions editor

“In addition to just being a really good musical, Hamilton bridges an almost unbridgeable gap: it brings to life long-dead characters.”

Hamilton

In the Heights

Hamilton -

American Horror Story introduces “Hotel”: AHS’s fifth season scares, shocks new audience with underwhelming plot LAUREN FRIAS co-editor-in-chief

Freak Show

American Horror Story: Hotel -

Hotel -

“Horror is introduced within the first few minutes...” Hotel

HOTEL OF HORRORS: Welcoming new residents, the Countress, played by Lady Gaga, checks new guests into the Hotel Cortez. Hotel is the fifth installment of the series, staring actors such as Cheyenne Jackson, Matt Bomer and Evan Peters. Photo from YouTube

a&e

Nov. 6, 2015

Larson assumes leadership role in Music Department MAEVE PLUNKETT & IMRA TAJUDDIN

Whether it’s caroling in the halls around the holiday season for Chamber singers, harmonizing with the other members of Nine or singing gibberish instead of words in a Scat That! performance, senior Ethan Larson is believed to excel in all aspects of the Music Department.

In addition to being a part of four singing groups at South, Larson is the Girls’ Glee choir assistant to Marty Sirvatka, Music Department director and instructional supervisor. As Sirvatka’s assistant, Larson receives a leadership opportunity and a form of independent study in music education, according to Sirvatka. “He helps me with auditions, assessment and attendance, and he also serves as someone that the kids can talk to in rehearsal,” Sirvatka said. “He’s sort of the liaison between me and the kids [during Glee choir].” Sirvatka explained that the position was created originally to make Girls’ Glee more efon the eight period schedule. Now, the position has grown into more. Larson was chosen because of his involvement in the Music Department. “He, above anybody else in choir, is really involved and probably the most experienced,” Sirvatka said. “He’s in the [Variety] Shows; he’s in the district festivals. He’s pretty much in anything we

SINGING WITH SOUL:

Sight-readng his sheet music, senior Ethan Larson practices music from one of his many singing groups. Larson serenades audiences as a member of Nine, Scat That! and Chamber Singers. Photo by Sean Dolan

The process by which the assistant is chosen is weighted by interest shown, but can also involve a waiting list and interview process. However, Sirvatka said that with Larson, he knew it was the right choice. According to Larson himself, he achieved the position by expressing interest and inquiring about its availability. He asked Sirvatka in his junior year whether or not

Sirvatka was going to have an assistant the following year; Sirvatka said

ful in 15 minutes. I was just going to go and do badly just [to] make [my mom] happy . . . [I] left that audition “With Ethan, it seemed like a rereally excited, that was actually what made me audition the next week for express interest, but he has been with Chambers, which I went into again me for so many years,” Sirvatka said. with no expectations. But then I got a “I’ve known him since he was a freshphone call from Mr. Sirvatka that said man, [and] it seemed like a really nathe wanted me in the group for next year.” well.” After his name appeared on the list It’s not all work though, according of Chambers members, Larson’s peers to Larson. He gets to have fun with his commended him on his achievement, position through interacting with the and he became excited about the idea students during class. of being involved in the Music DeSirvatka said, “We will sometimes partment. joke around and “All of my friends Ethan will make “He really works were like, ‘That’s awea face behind some’ and ‘Good job,’ very hard in the and I was like ‘Wow, this me. He keeps the spirit in the and cool and peopursuit of a goal isplefun choir from getdon’t mind if I sing,’” ting too serious. and he loves mu- Larson said. “That was Sometimes, we what started me going sic.” just laugh and all into choir.” joke around, Allen said that Lar-MaryJean Allen, and the girls son has opportunivoice teacher know it’s funny ties for a bright future when Ethan is ahead of him because of laughing.” his talent and dedication. MaryJean Allen, Larson’s voice “It’s just a really, really beautiteacher, noted that his musical talent ful voice,” Allen said. “I feel like if he is natural. wanted to have a solo career, he could have it. But he’s also trying to be realally sing on his own was when he was ly smart, and I think he’s looking into just warming up in voice lessons for the music business.” me,” Allen said. “It was such a beauAccording to Larson, he is aiming tiful sound […] He really works very for a music-based career in his future hard in the pursuit of a goal and he so that he can continue this passion loves music.” in his daily life. While singing is his passion now, “I want to go into music in some Larson wasn’t always interested in capacity,” Larson said. “Chances are choir. It was actually his mom who I’m going to end up at a desk someencouraged him to try out for a singwhere. If I am going to work a desk in ing group in order to get involved. my life, I want it to be for something “At the end of my freshman year, that I love and enjoy, which is music. my mom made me audition for Nine,” I want to get a music business degree Larson said. “I just whipped up some or music industry degree from a couple of colleges.”

a&e

Nov. 6, 2015

THE CRUCIBLE’S CLIMAX: Revealing a shocking secret, John Proctor, played by senior Chuck Quinn IV, sends a tremor through the courtroom in this dramatic scene. The Crucible was the fall play at South this year that told the story of the Salem witch trials. Photo courtesy of Michael Sarov

‘The Crucible’ inspires historic, emotional themes AAKASH BHOJWANI & JOHN PARK

the only character who did not believe that witch-

Two female characters standing on a bed clasp lot of the time, so it’s hard to get that balance right claims that various village people are witches. As the ominous list of accusations grows longer, the light dims and applause comes from the audience, markThe Crucible worked together to portray the paranoid communiAccording to Director John Knight, The Crucible was chosen as the fall play to honor the 100th birthday of its writer, Arthur Miller. The play is based on a ous women were accused of witchcraft and could only be saved from execution by confessing to these false accusations. The accused witches could also protect their lives by implicating others of witchcraft. “[The Crucible] is enjoyable to perform because the

had with one of the [...] witches, and he doesn’t see himself as a good man.” Another lead in the play is Proctor’s wife, Elizabeth Proctor, who is played by senior Rory Penepacker. fully accused victims of the witchcraft. According to Penepacker, Elizabeth is also a character who has

ignore the audience because the audience becomes a “We have a huge team that works together,” Knight said. “The set designer, the stage crew, the costumers [and] the actors all have to really work with each other, listen to each other and be very open to collaborate.” The play was performed on a raked stage, which means that the back of the stage is raised to be higher than the front. According to junior Justin Kalish, stage crew member, this posed a challenge for both the stage crew and actors. “This set is on an 11-degree angle, so everything we did is slanted, which makes it really tough for the actors, and people who are placing props, because [they] need to make sure [props] don’t move when [they] are on this pitch,” Kalish said. According to Penepacker, the play is enhanced on the day of performance when all the aspects of the show come together. Performance night transforms the actors into the characters. “When all the costumes, lights and sounds come together, it’s so cool to get into the moment,” Pe-

“The audience really adds an energy to the show that really helps you give your all and give an honest emotional performance.” -senior Chuck Quinn IV

terms of the costuming, the way people talked [and] the way people moved,” Knight said. “The societal ing for the actors to learn about that.”

“Elizabeth is complex in the way where she is a moral beacon of light in the show and in the town,” Penepacker said. “For John, especially, she is a place of clarity when the town is ascending into madness, but

Proctor, who was played by senior Chuck Quinn IV. cused of witchcraft. According to Quinn, Proctor was

The actors are not the only people responsible for the success of the play. According to Knight, produc-

with you, but when they’re in costume and in character, it’s easy to get into the moment, and you can’t

Quinn added that the audience is a large part of a performance, because they contribute to the vibe of ers on stage. “The audience really adds an energy to the show that really helps you give your all and give an honest emotional performance,” Quinn said. Quinn said that the Theater Department has been a large part of his high school career, and having a very important to him. “I thought it was a great [play] to go out on because it is such a challenging piece, and the characdepth that there are so many places you could take it,” Quinn said. “I was really happy to have this play for my senior year.” As the performance of this year’s fall play concluded, Quinn and Penepacker wrapped up their four-year run of performing in fall plays. They commented that the tools and friends they’ve taken away from the experiences will be with them forever. “It is kind of emotional for us because we have been with the same people for so long and we are so deeply connected to this department,” Penepacker said. “We love theatre so much, so it is sad to be saying good-bye.”

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sports

Nov. 6, 2015

Opinion

CRAZY CUBS: As the team high-fives on the field, the crowd proudly holds up signs containing the new hashtag #FlytheW (left). As the Pirates take the offense, the Cubs seek to defend their home stadium, Wrigley Field (middle). Cubs players take a selfie in their onesies at Wrigley Field on Oct. 13 (right). Right and Left photos by Chicago Cubs Instagram; Middle photo by Framk Clark

Unreached hype blinds Cubs fans from season’s successes HANNAH MASON co-editor-in-chief

When the famous, time-traveling Marty McFly read a hologram newspaper that the Chicago Cubs would win the World Series in 2015 in the classic movie, Back to the Future: Part Two, I doubt people took the possibility into consideration. It was just a sports joke thrown in to mock the Cubbies’ 107 year drought of not winning a World Series. When we entered this 2015 season, the Internet and Cubs went viral with the hope that this was the year baseman for the Chicago Cubs, predicted that the Cubs would win the National League championship. Let’s be real though: Cubs fans have been patient. I mean we’ve been really waiting for this, but after 107 years why should we believe that we’re going to win all of a sudden? Is it because we really are the best fans in baseball? Though true, I think it is fair to say that amid all the hype of 2015 season predictions, it was hard to consider us winning a World Series. Then, something strange started to happen...the

Cubs started winning. Gasp! They called up players

completely over this team, but hear me out. Be patient. I know people have been saying this for years,

this happening while adjusting to the new manager Joe Maddon. ment, I would have thought it would have been another two-to-three years before the Cubs made it to the post season. In case you have

stacles such as beating the Pirates in a Wild Card game on Oct. 7, 4-0. Soon after, they played long-time rivals, the Saint Louis Cardinals, clinching the series ing to the National League Championship. Unfortunately, we entered reality and the Cubs got swept by the New York Mets with the season ending on Oct. 21.

I know some of you are angry, have lost hope and are

slope. Getting to the postseason this year, we ended the regular season with one of the best records, 97-65 ,that we’ve ever had and that says something. You may ask, why now? What was different about this season compared to the past 107? Easy answer: Theo Epstein. Epstein, the Cubs President of Baseball Operations, was hired in 2011. Before coming to Chicago, he became the youngest General Manager (GM)

World Series since 1918 until 2004, this just after two break this Chicago curse then, I’m putting my money on it being Epstein. tween managers for the past few years, the only con-

sistent one being Lou Piniella from 2007-2011, MadIn a recent article by MLB.com, pitcher Jason Hammel ing on creating a culture and fun atmosphere inside the clubhouse. By the looks of any Cubs players’ Instagram, the fun is only beginning at Wrigley Field. Maddon has done

united Cubs fans from all over the world. determination and promises. Though they couldn’t keep some of those promises, if they enter the 2016 season the same way they did in 2015, there will be great things to come for this hopeful city.

sports

Nov. 6, 2015

GEORGIA ARVANITIS co-sports editor

Finishing his last football season of high school, athlete.

LOCKED AND LOADED: Preparing to snap the ball, center Daniel Moses and the rest of the offenseive linemen ready themselves for an offensive play against Niles West. The season finished with a record of 4-5, and the Titans were unable to make it to post-season. Photo by Ashley Clark

Football season ends without post-season SOPHIE HENSLEY asst. sports editor

“It was definitely not the best feeling to come so close and not be able to finish.” -Senior Ryan Janczak

sopho Photo by Ashley Clark

What is your favorite part of football? “Being a part of a family. I love all the guys on the team.”

What advice would you give to other GBS athletes?

Schiller commits to Brown University to play soccer BRIGID MURPHY & KATHRYN SULLIVAN

“Work hard in the weight room. That was the biggest difference for me.”

What were your goals this season? “My goals were to make the playoffs and get allconference. We obviously didn’t make the playoffs, and I’m still waiting to see if I made all-conference.”

What was your favorite memory this season? “The Maine South game. We lost, but we played really well and I was proud of all my teammates.”

What is one thing you can’t live without? “Music. I love hip-hop music and listen to it 24/7.”

Do you have any pregame rituals? “Before the game I would just listen to rap music and catch balls with the other receivers like Jake

Who is your favorite NFL player and why?

SOCKER STAR: Running through two defenseman,

senior Daniel Schiller dribbles the ball downfield. Schiller plays attacking midfielder for the Sockers FC Chicago team. Photo courtesy of Daniel Schiller

“Brandon Matshall [of the New York Jets]. Because like me, he is tall and goes up to get the ball over small defenders, which is what I try to do.”

sports

Nov. 6, 2015

Nikitas places sixth in State tournament SAMANTHA CASEY co-sports editor

Junior Charlie Nikitas placed sixth individually at the IHSA State golf tournament on Oct. 17, allowing him to become an AllState athlete, according to the Illinois High School Sports Association. Before the tournament, Nikitas’ goal was to be All-State by placing in the top ten. On the Friday of State, Nikitas shot a 76, and on the Saturday he shot a 77. According to Nikitas, even though his score was higher on Saturday, he felt that he played better the second day. “I had a rough stretch of holes before [I] made [a] turn[around],” Nikitas said. “[It] could have been a point where I gave the course, which was important to stay in the top 10.” In addition, Nikitas claims he could have been better at putting, but he made the shots he needed to succeed. kitas said. According to Nikitas, his most memorable moment from State was on Friday, when he made a comeback from four straight bogeys with a birdie on the hardest hole of the course. “The four straight bogeys on the back nine [was] frustrating after I had been playing so well,” Nikitas said. “[Then on the] 17th hole, [which] is [one of the] hardest holes on the course…[is] all over water and about 200 feet. I hit [the ball] to about four feet [away from the pin]. Then, I made the birdie, which was crucial in keeping the momentum going into Saturday.” The Titans were also hoping to qualify for State as a team, which they failed to do. Nikitas was the only player from GBS to qualify for State. “I felt like I could represent the team pretty well, because we represents what we have been doing all year,” Nikitas said. very strong, and as the season continued, their success faded. The team won four invitationals and lost one dual match against New Trier. really strong at the beginning of the year, and then we just sort of dwindled towards the end.” According to Nikitas, some of the team’s key players include senior Grant Reese and junior Kevin Paek. At conference, the team lost to New Trier, and in regionals they lost to GBN, Loyola and New Trier. According to Paek, the team did not achieve their post-season goals, which were getting out of regionals and qualifying for state as a team. “It was disappointing,” Paek said. “I feel bad for our seniors, but we are going to try to redeem them for next year by qualifying for state.” Paek himself had a goal of qualifying for state individually. He missed the State cut by one point.

MOHAWK MEN: Striding towards the ball, senior captain Javier Ayala (left) looks to make a pass to a teammate down the field. Looking for an open player, senior

captain Iñaki Bascaran winds up for a throw-in (right). The Titans shaved and styled their hair into mohawks in preperation for the playoffs, but eventually lost to GBN in double overtime in a penalty kick shootout. Photos by Jacqueline DeWitt

Men’s soccer loses to GBN in shootout GEORGIA ARVANITIS co-sports editor

Finishing the season with a record of 13-9-2, the men’s soccer a loss to Glenbrook North in the Regional Championship Final. According to senior defenseman Henry Tarbox, the team played exceptionally well in their last postseason game against GBN despite the loss. Tarbox mentioned that after the game the team was drained and stunned by the results. However, he believes they fought hard. “I don’t even really feel like we lost that game,” Tarbox said. “We nitely the better team. I think that was one of our best games of the year [because] we gave it all that we could. We were just exhausted and shocked by the whole situation.” Head coach Seong Bong Ha

agrees that it was a tough loss. Ha also comments on how the team, particularly the seniors, felt after the game. “[I] felt devastated for the nine seniors,” Ha said. “[I] thought this team could make a very long run

los received a yellow card with a minute left in second overtime. The team played a total of 80 minutes regulation time with two overtimes at 10 minutes each. According to Adamopoulos, the team played well

how good of a team they are. “Last it The [teams’] character, hard year wasn’t work, and teamwork were about winas outstanding and for that ning much as it [this] is the hardest reason is this year, we’re a to say goodbye to a great more soccer mindbunch of men.” ed group,” -Head coach Seong Bong Ha A d a m o poulos said. “We had a lot of injuries this year, which is why our record probsoccer match. Overall, these boys ably is [13]-[9]-2. We think [we were very special.” could have] had another two wins. Senior goalie Perry AdamopouAll of our guys who were injured the manner that we did was absolutely gutwrenching. It was a fantastic regional championship

3].” According to Ha, the players tied for the third most wins in school history, with 13, and tied for the third least amount of goals given up in a season, with 25 goals in 24 games. Ha believes that the men played incredibly well and thought they could have defeated GBN. “I thought the boys were good enough to win the match,” Ha said. “Our defense and goalkeeper [were] and our forwards attacked with speed creating numerous chances. I know the boys are sad, not only from the result, but that they were no longer going to be playing together, at least for this season. [...] Their character, hard work, and teamwork were outstanding and for that [this] is the hardest reason to say goodbye to a great bunch of men.”

motivation for next year,” Paek said. According to Nikitas, his favorite invite of this season was the

Women’s volleyball falls to Loyola in regionals

kitas said. “[Some of the teams included] Loyola, New Trier [and] GBN and we won as a team. I [also] won the individual.” According to Nikitas, in order for the team to be more successful next year, they need to work on peaking at the right time during the season. However, Nikitas believes that this year was a fairly successful season for the Titans.

CASSIDY JACKSON asst. sports editor

The women’s volleyball team ended their season on Oct. 29 with a score of 16-25 and 16-25. According to senior captain Cory Klaconference showed the team’s true potential as they recovered from past obstacles including a losing streak midway through the season. ing because we had the talent but we couldn’t play well together,” Klapacz said. “Last [season] we

went 30-8, so it was rough having that losing streak. We pushed through and by the middle of the season, we were working well together. We [were] just tired of losing, so we picked it up. We took some teams to three sets that previously were hard teams for us [like] New Trier and Stevenson. Nothing we did was in vain, we have things to be proud of.” Head coach Katie Hoover pinpoints the team’s true strength, deput up against some of the toughest competition.

“Our end of season matches against the best teams in our area demonstrated that we improved,” Hoover said. “We relied on hard work and teamwork to score more points and win individual games against those teams.” The losing streak ended at the Waukegan with a score of 25-14 and 25-13. Yet according to Eenigenburg, the team acknowledges the New Trier match loss on Oct. 13 as the real game changer. The team took a set but couldn’t carry out a full win. With an end score of 25-19, 18-25, and 11-25 . “It [showed] our skill as a team that we were able to take a game away from [New Trier], while no other school in our conference had been able to do that,” Eenigenburg said. With the New Trier conwalked into the regional ston. GBS had a 3-1 record against them prior to the match. According to Eenigenburg, those wins

The girls walked out with the win at a score of 25-17 and 25-20. “It was such an important game, so it was really encouraging to us to show ourselves and to show the other team that we can beat them [again],” Eenigenburg said. “We we didn’t want to have too much. dent we don’t play our hardest and make stupid mistakes.” According to junior Julia Rytel, the team walked into the regional lenge. Yet, Rytel stands by the fact that GBS could have gone further in the team’s hard work. “[Loyola is] a well rounded team,” Rytel said. “A majority of their players have been playing with each other since their freshmen year, so they’ve developed a really good connection, [but] I think [we were] capable of going further into point where a competitive matchup will be encountered early in the postseason. We left it all

but they tried to

SWINGING INTO SIXTH: Finishing through his swing, junior Charlie

Nikitas tees off during practice. Nikitas was the only player from the GBS team to qualify for state, where he placed sixth. Photo by Jacqueline DeWitt

KLAPACZ KILLS: Jumping in the air, senior captain Cory Klapacz spikes the ball over the net. The Titans beat Evanston with a score of 25-17 and 25-20 on Oct. 27. GBS played Evanston five times this season, beating them four times and losing once. Photo by Ashley Clark