10.23 Best of October Issue

CARMEL HIGH SCHOOL NEWSMAGAZINE VOL. 85, NO. 3 BEST OF OCTOBER 2020

BEFORE WE

HIL TE

VOTE

Politicians, teens in political campaigns assess the importance of teens in local politics PAGE 16 CADY ARMSTRONG, CHRISTIAN LEDBETTER

TABLE OF CONTENTS COVER

JUST A MINUTE

FEATURE

4 LAST MAN STANDING

10 A NEW FRONTIER

16 POWER TO THE PEOPLE

Military personnel, students consider benefits of newly minted space force

Politicians, teens in political campaigns assess importance of youth in local politics

Learn about candidates’ policies for the upcoming election

NEWS

12 IN HER FOOTSTEPS

6 NEWS BRIEFS

STUDENT SECTION

7 CLUB SPOTLIGHT

14 HUMANS OF CHS

8 PANDEMIC PAYDAY

15 CHANGING OPINIONS

Staff prepares for 5% funding cut

Students, teachers consider controversial opinions around celebrating Columbus Day, Indigenous Peoples’ Day

9 CYBERSAFE

ENTERTAINMENT 22 MEMORY LANE Students revisit popular childhood TV shows

23 EIGHT MONTHS IN 24 CREEP IT REAL

Contact information: Mailing Address: 520 E. Main St. Carmel IN 46032 Phone: (317) 846 7221 Ext. 7143 Website: www.hilite.org Email: Staff members may be contacted by using their first initial and their last name appending @hilite.org The HiLite is a student publication distributed to students, faculty and staff of Carmel High School temporarily pushed online only due to COVID-19 via Issuu at issuu.com/ hilite. This issue is a collection of select content published online in October 2020, as indicated on each story. The paper serves as a public forum and two-way communication for both the school and the community.

Opinions expressed in the newspaper are not necessarily those of CHS nor Carmel Clay system faculty staff or administration.

Credentials: The HiLite belongs to the Indiana High School Press Association, Quill & Scroll and the National Scholastic Press Association.

Advertising: Businesses may advertise in the HiLite if their ads adhere to guidelines. The advertising policy is available in Room C147 or at www.hilite.org/ads-info.

Editor in Chief

Cover

Rhea Acharya

Kiersten Riedford

Tessa Collinson Josie Cruzan Calina He Lillian He Sarah Kim Gray Martens Grace Xu Wendy Zhu

Valliei Chandrakumar Shruthi Ravichandran

Edward Dong Riley TerBush

Chloe Sun

Managing Editors

OUT CAMPAIGNING Volunteers for the Victoria Spartz campaign including CHS students gather before going on a door-knocking trail.

Getting involved in local campaigns allows students to have a voice in politics before they are able to vote.

See page 16 for full story MADDIE MISTERKA PHOTO

Front/TOC/JAM News

Cady Armstrong

Feature

SPORTS

32 JUST KEEP DRAWING

26 HEALING IS WINNING Athletes who have gone through physical therapy after injuries explain its physical, mental benefits

28 VIRTUALLY CHEERING

PERSPECTIVES 30 CC: S EMAILS With communication more vital than ever, CCS should allow student use of CCS emails

33 POPULAR VOTE

@hilitenews

15 MINUTES 34 THE MUSIC MAN

@hilitenews

Junior Caleb Beik plays over 20 instruments

@HiLiteOnline

Aniket Biswal Daniel Kim

Perspectives Sowmya Chundi Leah Tan

15 Minutes Litebox Ray Mo

Web

Christian Ledbetter

Adviser

Maddie Kosc

Thomas Harmas

Emily Sandy

Michael Beresford

Student Section

31 UPDATE, UPGRADE

Sports

Sam Hawkins Sarah Zheng

Ads Team

25 GHOST TOWN

Entertainment

Jim Streisel

Principal

Superintendent

Responding to the HiLite: Letters to the editor will be accepted for the Best of November issue no later than Nov. 6. Letters may be submitted to Room C147 placed in the mailbox of Jim Streisel, emailed to management2021@ hilite.org or mailed to the school. All letters must be signed. Names will be published.

(Letters sent via email will be taken to a student’s SRT for them to sign). Letters must not contain personal attacks against an individual and may be edited.

Corrections and clarifications: In the Best of September issue, Rola Al-Zureikat was incorrectly attributed as Maria Arriaga Zavala on pages 20-21. The story titled “Seeing Yourself” had a quote that was misattributed to senior Uredoojo Agada. The HiLite regrets and apologizes for its mistake and has since taken down the story from all online platforms.

The HiLite strives to correct its errors. If you notice any inaccuracies in this or past issues, please contact management2021@hilite.org.

RILEY TERBUSH FRONT COVER PHOTO

JUST A MINUTE

BEST OF OCTOBER 2020

This graphic was originally published online on Oct. 21, 2020.

LAST MAN STANDING With election season in full swing, learn about presidential, local candidates EDWARD DONG, ASHWIN PRASAD GRAPHIC NCSL, WASHINGTON POST, ON THE ISSUES, IDS NEWS, INDYSTAR, CNN, SPARTZ/HALE CAMPAIGN SOURCES

VOTING FOR STUDENTS

JOSEPH R. BIDEN The Democratic challenger

Know how to vote as a college student Register with parent’s permanent address

1966-1968

Apply for and mail an absentee ballot

Attended University of Delaware, Syracuse University Law School

OR Travel back home to vote early or on Election Day

Vote in person at a nearby poll

1968-1970

Register at an election office near your college

WORKING THE POLLS Learn about working the polls on Election Day

$105$345 Amount earned by poll workers on Election Day in Hamilton Co.

Age: 77 years old Birthplace: Scranton, PA Current home: Delaware Net worth: $9 million

Register with address of your college residence

Requirements

Must be registered voter and Hamilton Co. resident Must be 18 years old, or 16 with school approval

Scan here to see more details and sign up:

MAIL-IN VOTING

Criminal defense attorney in Delaware 1973-2009 Serves as Delaware Senator, longest serving senator in state history 2007 Files to run for president for 2008 race 2008-2016 Serves as 47th Vice President under Barack Obama April 2019 Announced his bid for the 2020 Democratic nomination

See how 2020 mail-in voting varies across the country

KEY Ballots automatically mailed to all voters Non-pandemic reason needed to voting by mail Mail-in voting allowed for all voters Application for absentee ballot sent to all voters Voters need to procure application themselves

Approves this policy Opposes this policy

POLICIES

Should be determined by states/cities No clear stance

EDUCATION

Universal pre-kindergarten

The Republican incumbent

GUN CONTROL

1966-1968

COVID-19 Nationwide mask mandate Federal efforts for more testing Reopen schools during pandemic

1976

ENVIRONMENT

1987 The Art of the Deal, Trump’s first book, becomes a bestseller 2004-15 Hosts The Apprentice, a reality TV show on NBC 2016 Wins election to be the 45th president

SPEAK-UP!

Universal background checks Federal assault weapons ban Gun confiscation programs

Attended Wharton School at University of Pennsylvania Buys Commodore Hotel in New York; kickstarts Trump’s business career

05

Free public college for middle class Lower the cost of college Federal funding for private schools

DONALD J. TRUMP

Age: 74 years old Birthplace: Queens, NY Net worth: $2.5 billion

SPARTZ

Read a story about how teens and students at CHS are getting involved in the 2020 election through local campaigns

INDIANA 5TH DISTRICT

HALE

KEY

TRUMP

HILITE.ORG

BIDEN

16

More climate change regulations Rejoin Paris Climate Accord Believes climate change exists and should be addressed

GENDER RIGHTS Additional abortion restrictions More restrictive late-term abortions LGBT anti-discrimination laws

IMMIGRATION Make legal immigration easier More visas for skilled immigrants Construct border wall

What would you say to teens and young adults that are hesitant to vote?

“A lot of people either feel overburdened to register to vote or don’t think that one vote will change anything. In reality, it’s a lot simpler than you’d think. The key is really becoming educated about the system and realizing that your vote does matter.”

Sophomore Michelle Kim

“Anyone is capable of political activism. The most common way is voting either before or on Election Day. Political power lies within the people and the only way it can remain there is if people exercise their right to vote.”

Senior Joshua Brinkman

NEWS

BEST OF OCTOBER 2020

NEWS BRIEFS DARSHINI SHANKAR BRIEFS

Key

News Briefs were originally published online on Oct. 15, 2020

CHENYAO LIU PHOTO

OCTOBER

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Oct. 27 & 28

Oct. 29

GKOM Connection Sessions

Nov. 3

National Election Day 2020

Nov. 7

November SAT Testing

Nov. 12 & 13

College & Career SSRT Lesson

Oct. 15-18 Fall Break 2020

Oct. 31

PSAT Testing (Carmel Cohort)

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Halloween Day 2020

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Nov. 12 & 13

Oct. 27 & 28 C.L.A.S.S Awards

Read the cover story about CHS students and their involvement in local upcoming congressional elections.

NOVEMBER

GKOM Connection Sessions

Nov. 17

CCRC healthcare majors fair

DID YOU KNOW? 82% of students in high school have taken a foreign language at some point in their high school career. Among this, 13% of them took Latin. Spanish was the most common language taken.

LEAD WITH LANGUAGES SOURCE LEARNING LATIN: Latin Teacher Caren Katuin leads the Latin Club meeting on Sept. 30, 2020 in Room A231. They played a trivia game about Roman history and the Latin language. The CHS Latin club is also connected to the Indiana Junior Classical League.

HILITE.ORG

07

CLUB SPOTLIGHT

Q&A with Carmel Republicans president, Young Democrats president

Q&A

OLIVIA STOCK, ZAINAB IDREES Q&AS CHRIS ELMORE SUBMITTED PHOTO

Chris Elmore, Carmel Republicans president and senior

OLIVIA STOCK Q&A

READY, SET, VOTE! Learn about how CHS political clubs are preparing for election day on Nov. 3

What is the CHS Young Republicans club?

Our main goal is to facilitate a political discussion among all of our members. Our members range from being moderate Republicans to even being Democrats, so we have tons and tons of debate within our club about philosophy and government overreach and different policy positions, but beyond that we also work to promote our Republican ideals through community service.

How has Carmel Republicans been supporting their cause/candidates in upcoming elections?

As a school club, we’re not allowed to take any official club actions and put them towards the campaign, but what we do is send out opportunities to go volunteer on weekends, and reach out to club members to see if they’re available to come you. Every weekend we go out on Saturdays and we go ahead and support our Republican candidates with door to door, we’ve done phone banking before which is where we canvas voters over the phone on behalf of the candidates, and so those are a few ways we get involved in our local races.

Q&A

YOUNG REPUBLICANS

YOUNG DEMOCRATS

- Promoting Republican Candidates doorto-door every Saturday

- Call and distribute flyers in support of Democratic candidates

- Actively volunteering in the community

- Participate in protests, fundraisers, donation drives

Join club by texting @carmelreps to 81010

Join club by texting @Dems20-21 to 81010

LEAH TAN GRAPHIC CHRIS ELMORE, AANCHAL AGARWAL SOURCES

AANCHAL AGARWAL SUBMITTED PHOTO

ZAINAB IDREES Q&A

Aanchal Agarwal, How has Young Democrats been supporting their Young Democrats cause, or candidates in upcoming elections? president For supporting specific campaigns, we volunteer on campaigns. The and junior best ways to do that are through phone banks and literature drops.

What is the CHS Young Democrats club?

Young Democrats is a way to encourage other people and to foster their own activism. It’s not so much about holding the democratic belief, (it’s about) how we can help support people on their journey towards becoming more political. And so that’s connecting you with opportunities, educating, facilitating discussions, just having a space to exercise those points.

For phone banks, you volunteer to call voters and appeal to them about the candidate. Another way that we can do that is literature drops. Literature drops are basically when you disperse literature or the flyers (for) the candidate in a neighborhood door to door.

In general, we just try to spread the word about candidates, have those important conversations with people in our daily lives, and encourage our members to do that.

These Q&As were originally published online on Oct. 23, 2020

08

BEST OF OCTOBER 2020

PANDEMIC PAYDAY Administration, staff prepares for decrease in district funding ALLY HORWITZ STORY

F

This story was originally published online on Oct. 15, 2020

or the 2021-22 school

year, the CCS district anticipates operating on a 5% decrease in funding due to a lowering of state sales and income taxes due to COVID-19 causing a decrease in sales tax and some taxpayers losing their employment or becoming furloughed. This thereby lowered the amount of income taxes the state received. The district receives about $100 million yearly from state funding and over $20 million from a local referendum that was passed in 2010 amidst the recession.

According to Associate Superintendent Roger McMichael, this decrease in funding will also apply to the state’s annual increase in funding for schools.

McMichael said, “In a typical year, we’ve received about 3 to 4% more money than the previous year, so now if we don’t receive additional funding, but rather have a 5% reduction, then we’re talking about a several million dollar loss.”

The last time a rainy day fund was used was during the Great Re-

cession in 2010 when the economic downturn caused the district to receive less funding from the state. It took the district six years to return to the funding it had received prior to the recession.

According to McMichael, the pandemic and funding has raised questions in the community about the state of Carmel’s funding for staff needs and other expenses.

“It’s likely we will see a negative financial impact of the pandemic in 2021 and 2022, and the question will be, kind of like the recession, how long will this last?” McMichael said.

In addition to undergoing a rapid change with switching to allvirtual learning in March, the district also endured the added costs of hybrid and virtual learning, supplies, personnel and the addition of staff, which cost the district an additional $2.5 million.

According to junior Tal Friedman, he thinks that the district will respond to the decrease wisely.

“I have faith that Carmel will figure out ways to allocate their funds wisely

FINDING FIGURES Take a look at the general CCS budget for the upcoming years

FUNDING PLAN FOR CCS: 2020-21 CCS plans to transfer $3 million to the rainy day fund.

Additionally, $2 million was spent in response to COVID-19

2021-22

CCS plans to add $4 million to the rainy day fund.

Unfortunately, CCS could potentially lose 5% of its funding due to COVID-19

BY THE NUMBERS

5% expected decrease in the CCS district’s 20212022 budget

3

MILLION dollars to be added to the rainy day fund

10 years ago was the last time CCS had decreased funding and had to use its rainy day fund CCS SOURCE

in order to create a nice environment for all of the students,” Friedman said.

According to Superintendent Michael Beresford, there is no simple answer as to how to approach covering these additional costs.

Beresford said, “It’s not as simple as saying ‘well, we just won’t pay everybody as much.’ Our employees are our most valued asset. If it gets to the point where we don’t have the cash reserves to meet the expenses, we will make some cuts in other areas.”

The district’s rainy day fund comes from cash reserves in other funds such as operational funds for expenses like technology that will help pay for the more imminent costs of staff and other direct expenses in the school.

According to Beresford, funding has not been an issue due to this, as well as the efforts of the district’s finance team.

Beresford said, “When you have a large district like Carmel Clay Schools, it’s about being efficient and this disH trict very (money)-efficient.

FIVE MAIN CCS BUDGET FUNDS: 1. EDUCATION FUND Used to pay for student instruction, student learning, such as salaries, benefits, supplies and utilities 2. OPERATING REFERENDUM Used to pay for human resources, business office, custodial and maintenance 3. OPERATION FUND Used for transportation, bus replacement, capital projects, construction, repair of buildings, grounds and technology

4. SAFETY OPERATING REFERENDUM FUND Used to pay for School Resource Officers, programs for mental illness, professional development programs for teachers, administrators and school employees designed to improve school safety 5. DEBT SERVICE FUND Used to pay for the debt incurred by the corporation, mostly facilities KIERSTEN RIEDFORD GRAPHIC CURRENT, CCS SOURCE

CYBERSAFE

CODE RED: Max Chang, CyberPatriot club president and senior, adds members to the club’s Discord server. Chang said online communication was paramount due to the current school year’s hybrid and virtual scheduling concerns.

Q&A

Q&A with cybersecurity teacher Carey Anderson DARSHINI SHANKAR Q&A

RAY MO PHOTO

This Q&A was originally published online on Oct. 23, 2020 CAREY ANDERSON SUBMITTED PHOTO

Cybersecurity teacher Carey Anderson What PLTW computer science courses does CHS offer?

(Cybersecurity) is our very first one in our computer science gateway for Carmel High School to have. So there are more (PLTW) courses we could (offer), but we chose (cybersecurity).

What concepts are taught in the new cybersecurity class?

It’s broken down into different units. We are right now focusing on what’s called ‘personal security’… So we really just want to teach students protection. But we also have network security. And then we also teach them the history of cybersecurity.

Why is the new cybersecurity course now being offered?

Really, toward universities, there is a huge growth right now in cybersecurity. We (also) realized there’s over 3,000 (cybersecurity) jobs open in Indiana right now and they cannot fill them. So there’s a huge need in this area right now.

How does this class compare to other classes that have been previously taught under computer science?

AP Computer Science A had a small unit and continues to have a small unit in (the area of cybersecurity)… what we’re doing (now) is just really opening up that one idea of cybersecurity because it also helps those people that already have programming experience, because they’re working on virtual machines, and so, basically, toward the end of the class my students will be working on three virtual machines and they’re trying to figure out where the vulnerability is.

How do you feel about National Cybersecurity Awareness Month?

We are very excited for October being National Cybersecurity (Awareness) Month. And so our students in our Computer Science Honor Society, and in our class, cybersecurity, and as well as Cyberpatriot, we really would like to start giving all of the students at Carmel High School an idea of what exactly they should be doing to protect themselves so we are developing plans.

FEATURE

BEST OF OCTOBER 2020

A NEW FRONTIER Aspiring, current military personnel consider benefits, impacts of new Space Force ARCHIT KALRA STORY

W

DIEGO VALENCIA SUBMITTED PHOTO

hen junior diego valencia was considering joining the Navy after college, he said one of the most important factors that influenced his decision was his desire to give back to his community.

“Comradeship, travel opportunities (and) the ability to give back to my country, for the most part, (are) what inspired me the most into looking into joining the armed forces,” he said via email. “The military in general provides lots of wonderful opportunities and experiences.”

Valencia said he was intrigued when a the Space Force was inaugurated last December.

“I think the Space Force is a cool idea,” he said. “Having a branch related to space is important, especially as technology advances.”

Valencia is not alone. A 2018 poll conducted by The Hill found that 57% of Americans approved of the creation of the Space Force, which, according to

Scan this to read a story about students at CHS studying space science and the impact of astronomy and astronomy education

Major Nicholas Mercurio, U.S. Space Force spokesman, represents an opportunity for the nation to continue developing its interests in space.

“Today, military space activities do not extend farther than our highestorbiting satellites,” Mercurio said via email. “However, commercial investments and new technologies have the potential to expand the reach of vital national space interests to cislunar and beyond. It is the responsibility of (the) U.S. Space Force to maintain U.S. advantages in space.”

In late September, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and the Space Force signed a “Memorandum of Understanding,” which served to demonstrate both organizations’ hopes for collaboration.

While some people have suggested in the past that the Space Force is replacing many of the functions that NASA has, Mercurio was quick to say this is false,with steps such as signing this memorandum as an example.

“First, it is important to understand NASA and the U.S. Space Force have two distinct mission sets. NASA’s job is science, discovery, exploration.

Space Force organizes, trains and equips space forces to protect the freedom of access to, and freedom of operation in, space,” he said.

Tejas Kulkarni, an engineer at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in California, said he agreed. “(NASA’s and the Space Force’s goals) are completely orthogonal to each other in my mind. (NASA’s) goals are based on scientific exploration and understanding, and it’s for the benefit of all humankind. We’re trying to learn new things, and that’s what we do,” he said.

MILITARY CAMP:

Junior Diego Valencia (far left) participates in drills with fellow Sea Cadets as a part of the United States Naval Sea Cadet Corps. Valencia said he hopes to enlist in the Navy after college to serve his country.

HILITE.ORG

Proposed for 2021

What you work on today will be in a textbook tomorrow...You are working on history.

Proposed for 2020

NASA ENGINEER TEJAS KULKARNI

CHANGING THE LIMITS Take a look at the Space Force’s new budget

Budget (in billions of dollars)

20 15 10 5 0

Total

Operations Research and Procurement Development and Maintenance

Allocation KRUTI SUBBANNAVAR, SAM HAWKINS GRAPHIC NATIONALDEFENSE SOURCE

One of the projects Kulkarni is currently working on is for the Europa Clipper mission, which hopes to send a spacecraft to Jupiter’s ocean moon Europa.

Although Kulkarni said he doesn’t think the Space Force will have much interest in gathering data from or playing a role in the Europa Clipper mission, Mercurio did say there is a possibility the circumstances will change.

“We are building the Space Force not for today or tomorrow, but for the next 100 years, so we can see operating in cislunar space, in close coordination with other organizations, a potential for us in the future.”

Senior Luis Withrow, who said he hopes to join the Marine Corps after graduating, said he thinks many of the first thoughts that people have when they think about the purpose of the Space Force may be exaggerated. “(The Space Force) is a lot like the Air Force. When people say, ‘I’m going to join the Air Force,’ everyone always thinks, ‘Oh, so you’re going to be flying a plane.’ Well, probably not–the only people that get to fly the planes in the Air Force are the pilots, and it’s only a lucky few that get to be that,” he said.

Withrow added that the costs of having the Space Force might take away from the more Earthly focuses of the military.

BY THE NUMBERS

$22 BILLION fiscal year 2020 budget for NASA

$750 BILLION

fiscal year 2020 budget for national defense, a 5% increase from 2019 enacted budget

$4.4 TRILLION approximate total spending of U.S. federal government in fiscal year 2019 WHITE HOUSE, NASA SOURCES

“We have so many programs in the military that deserve more funding,” he said. “We should be picking our battles in a better way.

I feel like the only thing that the Space Force benefits for now is the military-industrial complex.”

Kulkarni said, “One thing to note about the Space Force is that there is an international statute that does prevent space from being used in an offensive capacity. So that’s why a lot of the work is cybersecurity and electronic (based), and those things are useful. Those are areas that we do need to pay attention to.”

Mercurio said he agreed that the Space Force’s purpose is focused towards fostering peace.

“Space Force is committed to preserving the safety and accessibility of the space domain so that our nation, and the world, can continue to reap the benefits of space without conflict,” he said. “Space Force looks forward to Space Professionals joining Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines, (and) Coast

SPEAK-UP!

11

Guardsmen in that important role as NASA continues the peaceful human exploration of space.”

Valencia said he hoped more people will join the Space Force and advance its goals.

“The Space Force needs as many people as they can get, and if people are interested in anything related to space they should check it out,” he said.

Regardless of the resulting career track a student chooses, both Mercurio and Kulkarni said there are benefits to choosing something related to national security or aerospace engineering.

Mercurio said, “Although people may think that Space Force is only interested in individuals with STEM backgrounds, what the Space Force really needs are motivated, innovative men and women who can look around corners and anticipate—who think differently and can leverage bold action and cognitive diversity to help tackle the complex problems that will define the future prosperity and security of not only our nation, but of the world.”

“There are a lot of pros and cons to working in any of these fields,” Kulkarni said. “You are working for the benefit of all people and for educational value. What you work on today will be in a textbook tomorrow, and that is the truth. You are working on history, and it is pretty neat to see that happen.” H This story was originally published online on Oct. 14, 2020

KRUTI SUBBANNAVAR SPEAK-UPS, PHOTOS

Should we spend $15 million on the Space Force? “(The Space Force) is like a neutral. Because it can go wrong in so many ways, but I feel like people would do it anyways, so if you’re jumping on board then that’s your choice. I think (using $15 million) is fine, because it’s the next level.”

Junior Sreenija Paruchuri

“Honestly (I don’t think it’s justified to spend $15 million on the space force). I think it’s dumb that people put so much time, money and resources into doing things on space when they should be focusing on the world and in America.”

Sophomore Sophia Matthias

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BEST OF OCTOBER 2020

IN HER FOOTSTEPS Female students discuss impact Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg had on their lives KRUTI SUBBANNAVAR STORY

ASHLEY ELMORE SUBMITTED PHOTO

S

upreme court justice ruth Bader Ginsburg died at age 87 on Sept. 18, 2020 due to complications of metastatic pancreatic cancer. Ginsburg left a significant legacy on many.

Kate Smith, member of the Civics Club and sophomore, said she was extremely saddened by the news.

Smith said she was inspired by Ginsburg’s career and wants to go in the legal or political field for a job.

“The first thing I thought was, this is awful. I’m really sad about this. But the second thing I thought, which no one should actually think when someone like this dies was, (I wonder) what’s going to happen to the court,” she said.

Senior Ashley Elmore said she was also saddened by the news of Ginsburg’s death. Elmore said she cried when she heard about it, as did a lot of her friends and her friends’ moms.

“I was heartbroken and obviously shattered,” Elmore said. “This woman was one of the people on Capitol Hill that really had minorities in her heart, and actively (thought) about them, so it’s almost like you have a shield ripped off of you.”

Elmore said she adored Ginsburg and that she was a rule-breaker

She protected a lot of people that need to be protected, but she was also the only person protecting them.

SENIOR ASHLEY ELMORE who was ahead of her time. She said the fact that Ginsburg fought for abortion rights, women’s rights and LGBTQ rights among other also inspired her to use her voice to have a say in how the country is run.

“She protected a lot of people that need to be protected, but she was also the only person protecting them,” Elmore said.

Some of Ginsburg’s most important achievements, according to Teen Vogue, include contributing to the end of all-male public universities, helping establish the law that was passed in the aftermath of Roe v. Wade and fighting for mens’ rights to Social Security.

According to Robert Browning, social studies and business teacher, who has over 30 years of legal experience, Ginsburg had one of the best legal minds.

BY THE NUMBERS

27

is the number of years Ginsburg served as an Associate Justice on the U.S. Supreme Court

8

is the number of women in Ginsburg’s class at Harvard Law School

34

is the number of Supreme Court cases Ginsburg played a role in at the ACLU ACLU, HISTORY. COM SOURCES

He said, “(Ginsburg’s) career has had a tremendous impact on young girls in particular, because they see someone who (had a) great legal mind get to the top, the pinnacle of the profession of being a judge, handled herself well in every respect, was highly respected and captured the attention of the media, and (was) just a fascinating woman.

So, I think when young girls see a woman reach that status, they can think, ‘Oh I can do that.’ It’s good to see role models, and there just haven’t been that many women Supreme Court justices.”

Browning also talked about Ginsberg’s dissenting opinions, and how they were elegant yet expressed her point about what was right and what was not. He said Ginsburg balanced out the Supreme Court in terms of political parties and was always considered the Constitution as a living, breathing document.

Since the news of Ginsburg’s death spread, many students at CHS have honored her in their own ways. Zoe Edwards, president of the Mock Trial Club and senior said many female students were honoring her legacy by choosing to go into the legal field. Edwards said that

HER WORDS Take a look at some of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg’s significant decisions on the Supreme Court

1996

In United States v. Virgina, the court ruled the Virgina Military Institute had to admit women. Ginsburg wrote the majority opinion.

CNN, OYEZ, TEEN VOGUE, TIME SOURCES TSION DANIEL, SARAH ZHENG GRAPHIC

1999

In Olmstead v. L.C. the court ruled people with mental disabilities could not be unjustifiably segregated.

Ginsburg wrote the majority opinion.

HILITE.ORG

Mock Trial Club consisted mostly of women, something that could be attributed to Ginsburg’s influence.

Elmore and Smith both said to vote as a way of keeping honoringGinsburg and keeping her memory alive. They said it was important for one to use their voice, and to stand up for what was right, as what they believed Ginsburg would have done. Elmore also said its important for people to know

2007

who Ginsburg was and what she did, and that she should be taught about in history classes.

Smith said fighting for the rights Ginsburg helped to establish and protect and helping people would also be something she would have wanted and something that would keep her memory and legacy alive.

Smith said, “I think it’s a reminder I might feel comfortable in the rights I have now, but there’s

In Ledbetter v. Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company, the court ruled Ledbetter’s claim of salary discrimination was time-barred. Ginsburg dissented and called upon Congress to act.

2013

SPECIAL LEGACY:

Senior Ashley Elmore sits at her desk watching a video of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg on her laptop. Elmore said watching documentaries was her love for movies and RBG blending together.

2015

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people who are in the situation women were 20 years ago; as a group, people are still fighting and people still need justice, and as someone who has had things handed to me by women like RBG, I need to be an advocate for others.

I know because of (Ginsburg) I can H do great things.”

This story was origianlly pusblished online on Oct. 17, 2020

In Obergefell v. Hodges the court ruled states have to recognize and license same-sex marriages. Ginsburg joined the majority decision.

In Shelby County v. Holder, the court ruled certain sections of the Voting Rights Act were unconstitutional.

Ginsburg wrote the dissent.

2016

In Whole Woman’s Health v.

Hellerstedt the court struck down a restrictive abortion bill. Ginsburg wrote a concurring opinion.

STUDENT SECTION

BEST OF OCTOBER 2020

HUMANS OF CHS Students share their Halloween plans This Q&A was originally published on Oct. 19, 2020

MADDIE MISTERKA Q&A, PHOTOS

sophomore anna franiak

I’m having a masquerade ball. (My friends and I are) wearing fancy dresses or outfits and masks.

People are going to wear their face masks that cover their mouth and nose, and the traditional masquerade mask is optional. I’m decorating my whole house and drinks and food will be offered and I will be buying hand sanitizer jugs and placing them next to the drinks station.

ANNA FRANIAK SUBMITTED PHOTO

CREATE-A-COSTUME

senior hannah nazzal

I really want to throw a party but because of corona I don’t want to be unsafe. (In the past,) I’ve been trick or treating and hung out with friends and done a Halloweenday sleepover. (My friends and I) have also made treats based off of Halloween themes. senior joey vaughn

I’m getting older, so (in the past) I’ve always wanted to go outside and go out trick or treating, but I can’t really do that anymore. I still celebrate it by watching scary movies.

So (this year) I’ll probably sit around and watch movies with my family.

SEVENTEEN SOURCE ELISE VARHAN, EMILY SANDY GRAPHIC

Take a look at some simple DIY costume ideas This graphic was originally published on Oct. 19, 2020

FLOWER CHILD Dress in the fashion of a certain decade! For example, a flower child from the 60s would wear bell bottoms, a flower crown, a peace sign necklace, and round sunglasses. Some popular decades include the 20s, 60s, and 90s.

WILD WEST

General characters such as witches, animals and cowboys are great and simple costumes.

A cowboy costume, for example, would need a cowboy hat, cowboy boots, a bandana and leather or cowskin vest.

GEORGIE (FROM “IT”)

DAMION (FROM “MEAN GIRLS”) If you want an easy character costume, you can dress up from the timeless movie Mean Girls as Damion, who says the iconic quote, “She doesn’t even go here!” All you need is a blue hoodie and a pair of sunglasses.

Consider dressing as a character from pop culture.

Lots of them have simple costumes. For example, Georgie from It really only requires a yellow raincoat, green rainboots, a red balloon and a paper boat to complete the look.

HILITE.ORG

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CHANGING OPINIONS Debate between Columbus Day, Indigenous Peoples’ Day leads to varying opinions among students, staff

E

SAUMYA SOMASI STORY

very year since columbus

Day was officially recognized as a federal holiday in October 1937, Columbus Day has been celebrated by a number of states. However, in more recent years, opinions about the day have been changing.

World history teacher Ryan Ringenberg has seen the changing opinions about Columbus Day, “The situation has been going on for probably close to a decade now where people have been questioning the celebration of Columbus Day mainly because (Columbus) is being more and more recognized for some of the atrocities against the Native American population,” he said. “So there’s more and more criticism and questions as to whether or not to celebrate Columbus and his accomplishments.”

Ringenberg says that there are several states that have switched to celebrating Indigenous Peoples’ Day over Columbus Day, although it is still Columbus Day in Indiana.

BY THE NUMBERS

1920 Columbus Day starts to be celebrated annually

1934 Columbus Day becomes a national holiday

1992 year that the first state (California) called it Indigenous Peoples’ Day CNN SOURCE

Sophomore Maya Taylor said she would like to see a change in favor of Indigenous Peoples’ Day. She said, “Although it may feel insignificant for Indiana to change the name of Columbus Day to a more culturally appropriate name, I think it would be a step in the right direction.”

Ringenberg said that he agreed with this statement.

“As far as I’m concerned, I understand the counter arguments against (Columbus Day) and I would be completely in favor of changing the scope of the day.”

Sophomore Brandon Anderson said he has heard more people refer to the day as Columbus Day rather than Indigenous Peoples’ Day. He said via email, “I do prefer saying Indigenous Peoples’ Day in concept, but in practice, it usually isn’t ideal. People will often get confused for a split second when you say (Indigenous Peoples’ Day) and if you want to say it, it is something you have to concentrate on because

DID YOU KNOW? Columbus is to be blamed for bringing measles into the New World. He caused “epidemics of death” after his crew entered the New World, causing uncountable and preventable deaths.

THE WASHINGTON POST SOURCE

Columbus Day is what most of us have grown up hearing and what we tend to say even if we don’t respect Christopher Columbus.”

Taylor also said that people tend to call it Columbus Day out of tradition, even if they don’t respect the man.

She said, “Most people don’t like major changes and like to stick to what they’re used to. I truly believe, however, that if people were more educated they would see what’s so wrong with having a holiday for Christopher Columbus.”

Ringenberg said that it is important to not overly respect or honor any human in history because you will always be able to find a flaw within them that would diminish some of their accomplishments.

Ringenberg said, “I think balance is the key and if you’re going to mention Columbus and some of his accomplishments, at the same time you want to address some of the negative—the ugly effects of H what came after his arrival.”

This story was originally published on Oct. 20, 2020 HELPING HAND:

Sophomore Brandon Anderson talks to students at a Black Student Alliance club meeting. Anderson said the concept of Indigenous Peoples’ Day is good but not ideal in practice.

CHENYAO LIU PHOTO

16

BEST OF OCTOBER 2020

POWER TO THE Politicians, students advocate importance of teens in local politics CADY ARMSTRONG, CHRISTIAN LEDBETTER STORY

MADDIE MISTERKA PHOTOS

HILITE.ORG

PEOPLE

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BEST OF OCTOBER 2020

A

s the election gets closer,

the bids for presidential candidates Donald Trump and Joe Biden come up in most everyday conversations. Debates between candidates have become heated as have debates between citizens. However, such debates often leave out the topic of local elections.

According to senior Caroline West, intern for the Hamilton County Republican Party and senior, local elections are of equal importance to the presidential one.

“Getting involved in local politics eventually opened my eyes to what’s going on locally and not just who’s running for president,” West said.

“The congressional races started and I met (Republican) congresswoman (Susan) Brooks a few times, so that’s what opened my eyes to a few things locally.

Then when I joined Carmel Republicans, that’s when I really took off in what I like to do.”

On Nov. 3, Indiana voters will select Democratic and Republican nominees for the 5th Congressional District in addition to other offices.

Brooks, who served four terms, announced she would not run for reelection in the 2020 campaign, leaving an empty seat for Republicans and Democrats hoping to advance their careers. While Republicans chose Indiana state Sen. Victoria Spartz to fill the seat, Democrats chose former Indiana state Rep. Christina Hale.

West said she has involved herself in politics since visiting a fundraising event for former congresswoman Susan Brooks. Since then, West has involved herself in local politics, including Carmel Republicans during her junior year and the November congressional race, by working for the Hamilton County GOP. “(Working for the campaign has) shaped my perspective so much because you talk a lot about national politics or certain federal and national issues, but you don’t think about it locally with local schools and different infrastructure issues and other things that (we’ve been executing)

CALLING CONGRESS: Senior Esha Sharma sits at her desk on the phone with a co-worker.

Sharma said that the Christina Hale campaign is all-virtual now due to COVID-19 and the social distancing guidelines.

Sharma said that refraining from door-knocking was important.

locally. My mind has shifted from thinking about the big issues (to) thinking more about (smaller and more) local issues,” West said.

Local elections are not only important to West; according to Esha Sharma, deputy team captain for the Hale campaign and senior, while national elections are important, she said she thinks the 2020 congressional election is more worthy of her attention.

Sharma said, “I (joined) the Christina Hale campaign and I thought, ‘Okay, this is more important. This needs my attention right now’ because we’re so close to flipping the 5th (Congressional

District from Republican majority to Democratic majority).”

Despite this, according to a 2016 study conducted by Portland State University analyzing 23 million voting records, less than 15% of eligible voters voted on local political offices such as mayors or council members.

Sharma said getting involved in elections could help close the gap and make a difference for the outcome of the election.

Sharma said, “There were a lot of people who I encountered who just said, ‘I don’t think that my involvement is necessary or that it can do anything,’ but it just becomes very ap-

HILITE.ORG

parent that one person can do so much if you just start exploring what your options can be, or (how by) entering into politics you can make a difference.”

West said she agreed with Sharma on the importance of getting involved as the outcomes may be different from what one expects.

“You see people nationally (saying), ‘I’m going to vote for Trump, I’m going to vote for Biden,’ but learning about local issues and having people vote locally is really important,” West said.

Since COVID-19 spread throughout the nation, social distancing guidelines followed close behind, causing a shift in volunteer activities and events in politics. Organizers from both parties nationwide have canceled or postponed most fundraising events, including those focused on voter outreach and getting to know the candidates. However, with the November elections still approaching, both Indiana congressional parties are still seeking to promote their candidates, though the means they are going about it differ.

According to Sharma, the Hale campaign has gone fully virtual with weekly meetings.

“With the way our structure is set up, you have so many points of contact where you can just talk to people,” Sharma said. “We have so many mentors where, whether it’s about our work or just about our lives, you can have a conversation (with them).

I really do feel like I can text any of them and say, ‘Hey, can I call you really quickly? I have a question,’ and they would be okay with that.”

In contrast, West said the Hamilton County GOP is going doorto-door promoting the Republican candidates, including Spartz.

“I do a lot of door knocking, so I’ll do 100 or so houses if I’m by myself, and I’ll do 200 or so if I’m with someone else. It’s been really interesting learning about different people at their houses. It’s a really cool experience, just being able to talk to people and encountering different kinds of people. Some people are mad that you’re at their

door, and some people are so excited to talk to you.”

According to Spartz, internships like West’s and Sharma’s are a great way for students to get involved with politics before they can vote or run for office.

Spartz said via email, “Not only do you get to learn about campaigning and the political process, but you start to create a network of others involved in politics. That network is important to finding their next opportunities.”

19

VOTE NOW: Caroline West, intern for the Hamilton County Republican Party and senior, holds a candidate card reading the Republican candidates in Indiana. West said working as an intern has given her valuable experience.

YOUNG VOTERS Take a look at what CHS students think the voting age should be*

KEY <15 *Based on a poll of 215 CHS students

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18

20

17

19

>21

SOWMYA CHUNDI GRAPHIC HILITE POLL SOURCE

KNOCK AND TALK: Purdue University student Nick Bowser (left) and Taylor University student Kellan Duffy (middle) talk to grassroots organizer David Nelson as they stand together looking at a map. The map is the route for the Oct. 3 door-knocking event done by Indiana state senator Victoria Spartz’s congressional campaign.

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BEST OF OCTOBER 2020

SIGNED UP: Senior Logan Tullai poses in his yard with a congressional campaign sign for Democrat Christina Hale, former member of the Indiana House of Representatives. Tullai is one of the student volunteers for Hale’s campaign, seeking to gain knowledge and experience in politics.

Indiana state senator Victoria Spartz said teenagers that wish to pursue a career in politics should get involved in campaigns.

5 Look at a graphic detailing the policies of congressional candidates Hale and Spartz

DOWN THE LINE See how our state legislature compares to federal legislature

MARIJUANA USE STATE: Indiana law allows the use of marijuana in limited medical situations like intense pain from broken bones and after crucial surgeries FEDERAL: The use of marijuana is illegal in all circumstances except FDA testing

THE SUPREMACY CLAUSE Article VI of the Constitution dictates federal law takes precedent over state law unless federal ruling is absent, or unless state law would provide more protections RILEY TERBUSH GRAPHIC NYTIMES, THE WHITE HOUSE SOURCES

Sharma said one of the most impactful moments during her internship was a phone call with a potential voter that lasted 20 minutes. During the call, they discussed controversial topics and their potential impact.

“He talked a lot about his own personal life and how these issues affect him, how gun control affects him and how healthcare affects him,” she said. “I guess I always thought of these terms as very abstract because I wasn’t necessarily, in terms of healthcare... directly affected by it... Talking to people is more eye-opening because I can see how these issues might affect them differently then it affects me.”

Spartz said that for her, working with publications and creating TV ads takes up most of her days on the campaign trail and leaves her busy.

According to West, her experience helped her more than one way.

West said, “I’ve finally found my passion (through the internship), so I’d just encourage anyone who the slightest bit is interested in politics, one way or the other, left or right— just get involved and start phone banking, start door knocking, and

THE TENTH AMENDMENT: “The powers not delegated to the United States by the Constitution, nor prohibited by it to the States, are reserved to the States respectively, or to the people”

ABORTION STATE: Courts overturned a law to ban abortions based on fetal characteristics. All abortions are allowed.

FEDERAL: All abortion procedures are legal as dictated by the outcome of Roe vs. Wade

LGBT DISCRIMINATION STATE: Indiana outlawed discrimination based on sexual orientation after a 2017 court ruling FEDERAL: Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibits discrimination based on sex, color, race, religion or national origin

Saying that, ‘this isn’t my issue’ or ‘I’m not political’ just means that you’re political in favor of whoever is already in power.

SENIOR ESHA SHARMA it’s the best thing ever, connecting with voters,” West said. “I think in school I’ve noticed when I’m talking about things, I’ve just become so much more knowledgeable about different issues, so it definitely helps you in school and in life, being so knowledgeable about local things.”

James Ziegler, Young Democrats club sponsor and social studies teacher said he agreed with West about the importance of teenage involvement in politics.

“It is critical for teenagers to get involved in politics even if they can’t vote,” Ziegler said via email. “Youth may not be able to vote; however, they are still greatly impacted by the decisions made by those in positions of power. Many of the decisions that our politicians make today have long-term impacts that will continue to impact youth for years to come. Because today’s youth will feel the repercussions of these decisions for years to come, it is essential that they let their voice and views be heard, especially on issues where there are large differences in perspectives between younger and older generations.”

Sharma said students should get involved in politics, both local and federal, regardless of whether every issue affects them personally.

“If you know what your beliefs are, you should find a way to stand up for them,” Sharma said. “Saying that ‘this isn’t my issue’ or ‘I’m not political’ just means that you’re political in favor of whoever is already in power.”

Spartz said her interns call and knock on the doors of various voters.

“They talk to hundreds of voters a day explaining how they are supporting my race for Congress and why the voter should as well,” Spartz said.

According to West, her experience has changed her perspective not only about Republicans, but about Democrats as well. She said her experience has also helped her become a more compassionate person.

“I definitely encourage people to join local clubs here and get involved in local politics because that can boost you in so many ways, and I’ve already seen (those) opportunities now,” West said. “Here I am in Hamilton County, but I got this opportunity for Indiana and then someone is connecting me to someone else who works in (Washington) D.C. for the RNC (Republican National Committee). Politics, you think it’s huge, but in reality it’s kind of a small world. In Carmel, we’re so special because we have so many great people who are working in (Washington) D.C. right now and Congress who are from Indiana.”

Sharma said that she agreed with West, saying there are many ways to get involved in politics, especially given the various clubs offered at this school.

BOARDED UP: Gavin Coulter, Zionsville High School student and junior, holds a sign for Indiana state senator Victoria Spartz’s congressional campaign. He said the experience is beneficial for students who want to go into politics later in life.

Sharma said, “I would say that first and foremost is to try to get involved in whatever way you can, whether it’s the smallest thing; if you just volunteer for half an hour to do a phone banking shift, that’s important. If you completely commit to joining a campaign, that’s also important. I think its important to not remain apathetic and also not to remain completely discouraged, because there’s always a way to move forward.

That sounds so cliché, but it’s true.” H

Editors’ Note: Reporters reached out to additional members of the Christina Hale campaign during the writing of this story but were unable to interview them. Additionally, photographers made efforts to take photos of the Hale campaign, but given the socially distanced, all-virtual strategy of voter outreach these shots were not as possible in contrast to Spartz’s more traditional campaign strategy. Any comments made by interns do not necessarily reflect the views of their candidates or that of the HiLite Staff.

TOGETHER WE STAND: Junior Hidi Cramer (left), senior Mackenzie Misterka (middle), Guerin High School senior Emily Widdis (second to right) and senior Joshua Brinkman (right) sit in Victoria Spartz’ campaign headquarters.

They were discussing doorknocking routes.

7 Read a Q&A with the leaders of the Young Democrats and Carmel Republicans clubs at CHS

MEMORY LANE Resurgence of popular TV shows from 2000s prompts students feeling of nostalgia EMILY CARLISLE STORY

I

f you have been on tiktok recently you have likely seen trends surrounding 2000s TV shows such as “Clone High” and “Avatar: The Last Airbender.” These shows have been gaining popularity for a variety of reasons, one being the nostalgia they bring to people who watch them. Senior Madeline Blank said that Disney+, in particular has a lot of shows that make her nostalgic.

Blank said, “I have been able to go back and rewatch the shows I loved as a kid. I have watched a lot of ‘Wizards of Waverly Place’ and

Depending on your age, you might want to go back to watch shows/films from your childhood to recapture that innocence.

IB FILM TEACHER JIM PETERSON

‘Hannah Montana’, which makes me so happy.”

Junior Will Atteberry said he too felt a sense of nostalgia watching certain shows.

He said via email, “Any show that was on Disney or Cartoon Network in the early 2000s, especially shows like ‘Regular Show’ and ‘Suite Life On Deck’ and also a lot of (Disney Channel original movies) like ‘Teen Beach Movie’ bring me loads of nostalgia.”

IB Film teacher Jim Peterson said that he thinks the pandemic has been a large factor in the resurgence of media.

Peterson said via email, “Many are wanting to recapture the time before COVID. Depending on your age, you might want to go back to watch shows/films from your childhood to recapture that innocence.”

Social media platforms have also boosted the popularity of certain shows. Blank said the reason she began watching MTV’s 2002 show “Clone High” was because she saw so many videos using audio clips from the show.

WONDERFUL WIZARDS (ABOVE): Senior Madeline Blank smiles as she rewatches old episodes of Wizards of Waverly Place on Disney+.

Blank said that with COVID-19, teenagers have had more time to revisit older childhood shows in order to relive nostalgic moments. With the renewal of old shows, many teenagers are revisiting their childhood in remembrance of their old shows.

Blank said, “I am a huge fan of ‘Clone High’, but I only found out about it through TikTok videos.”

Reboots are a third factor that may affect certain show’s popularity.

Blank said, “I think that what started (‘Clone High’’s) rise to popularity now is the reboot that was announced. ” However, Peterson said reboots, aren’t always the way to go.

Peterson said, “I think the industry is getting lazy and afraid of failure.

There is a lot of risk in producing new media. It’s easier to go back to what has been successful in the past and assume that it will be successful again.”

Still, reboot or not, according to Attenberry, the nostalgia and joy brought to the people watching can be worth it.

Atteberry said, “Nostalgia can be one of the most powerful emotions especially with tv and music.

(It) can totally teleport you to an exact moment in your past, and it’s H a wonderful feeling.”

SADIE PENIX PHOTO

This story was originally published online on Oct. 20, 2020

HILITE.ORG

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EIGHT MONTHS IN Taking comfort in watching nostalgic TV shows is relaxing amidst the pandemic PALLEVI PILLAI COLUMN

N

early eight months into the pandemic Jack Hamilton, an associate professor of media studies and this isolationist way of living and thinking at the University of Virginia, said he agrees. are becoming second-nature to me. During this “For me, the familiarity of (comfort TV) is comtime, people have been rekindling their favorite solitary forting and anxiety-reducing, even though, or maybe activities; everyone, it seems, has been discovering their especially because, I’ve probably seen every episode a own form of pandemic “self-medication.” thousand times at this point,” Hamilton said in an inI, like most people, have been turning to comfort TV. terview on CNN. Apart from being a convenient diversion to the insanPersonally, I find the lightheartedness of comfort ity that has happened this year, for me, TV shows TV is what makes it so addictive. are arguably the most universal forms of escapism.

But despite my craving for nostalgia, there’s Whenever life as a virtual student gets too munstill a glimmer of hope for newer media. In these dane or if I need to take a break after a hectic day, I months of the pandemic, there is still one new love knowing I can just curl up on the couch with show I discovered that has become my new alla warm blanket, a snack and a side of nostalgia. For time favorite: NBC’s “This is Us.” as much as I love discovering new shows to watch, During quarantine, I quickly devoured the the pandemic has had me craving older media. first four seasons. “This is Us” follows one If you also feel this way, you are not alone. YOU’RE MY PERSON family, the Pearsons, through two differBack in May, actor Josh Gad, who, too, was yearnent timelines: the past and the present. The

BY THE ing for some comfort entertainment, organized an online moving stories between the siblings and their incred“Goonies” reunion with the cast and creators of the movie, ible parents treat viewers to a heartwarming experience, NUMBER which went on to receive 3 million views on YouTube. especially if you watch it with your own family. It feels “I think nostalgia is so important right now because we intimate to step into the world of characters whose auall want to go back to simpler times.” the “Frozen” star said. diences feel content to see if they turn out all right as “We all are hoping for something we can connect with that they continue to watch. And right now, old TV show MILLION reminds us of better days.” or new, we all could use a moment to step into a world people have H Currently I find myself in heavy rotation between void of cynicism. signed up for “Grey’s Anatomy,” “Gilmore Girls” and “Friends.” I enjoy streaming The views in this column do not necessarily reflect the views watching the hilarious duality of Meredith, Christina and services since of the HiLite staff. Reach Pallevi Pillai at ppillai@hilite.org Lorelai’s quick, witty, pop culture-referenced comebacks; June 2020 This column was originally published online on Oct. there is this element of familiarity and warmth to these 23, 2020 BBC SOURCE shows that makes me feel at home.

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SPEAK-UP!

SADIE PENIX, WENDY ZHU SPEAK-UPS, PHOTOS

What was your favorite childhood TV show and why?

My favorite was “Phineas and Ferb” because (it) was just kind of appealing to me, just all the fun little things they did and just annoying their sister, but it also just related to me because I like annoying my sister.

Freshman Braelen Price

My favorite childhood TV show was “Spongebob.” I liked how relatable Squidward was and how they lived in a pineapple under the sea.

Senior Anna Lai

24

BEST OF OCTOBER 2020

CREEP IT REAL

This graphic was originally published online on Oct. 20, 2020

Learn about various components of horror movies , their viewers EMILY SANDY, MARISSA FINNEY GRAPHIC

FORBES, VARIETY, HUFFPOST, SCREENRANT SOURCES

HORROR HISTORY

DEADLIEST VILLAINS

Compare each type of horror film and their viewers by generation*

Check out the top five deadliest killers in horror movies

1. Jason Voorhees

Key: Gen-Z

Gen-X

Milennials

50+

(“Friday the 13th”) 151 kills

2. Michael Myers

PARANORMAL

(“Halloween”) 131 kills

14% 44%

3. The Invisible Man

(“The Invisible Man”) 123 kills

28% 16%

BLOCKBUSTER 36%

(“Silence of the Lambs”) 98 kills

32%

32% 27%

9%

4. Hannibal Lecter

SCI-FI

36%

5. Jigsaw

26%

*Numbers are rounded, total may not come out to 100

(“Saw”) 60 kills

5%

FLICK FUNDS

Take a look at the highest grossing horror films of all time

“Jaws” (1975)

$1.154 billion

“The Exorcist” (1973) $996.5 million

“Ghostbusters” (1984) $641.3 million

“The Sixth Sense” (1999) $518.8 million b r u c e w i ll i s

THE SIXTH SENSE TOuch TASTE Hear SMELL See Fear

GHOST TOWN Junior Chitra Sunil participates in ghost-themed photoshoot trend to celebrate Halloween PALLEVI PILLAI PHOTO, Q&A

What was your favorite part?

My favorite part of this whole experience was getting to do this with my friend because we were both able to have fun and get creative in a unique way that we havenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t done before.

What inspired you to do the photoshoot?

Well, I saw this trend floating around TikTok a lot, and many of the photoshoots I saw were very creative and interesting, so I was inspired to do my own take on the ghost photoshoot because of this.

Why do you think the trend has become so popular on social media?

I believe that this trend has become so popular on social media because everyone online is trying to make the most out of Halloween this year. This is a simple and fun way to get creative and in the Halloween spirit, which is most likely why it went viral on social media such as TikTok.

With COVID-19 likely canceling aspects of Halloween this year, did the photoshoot help you to get into the Halloween spirit?

Yes, it definitely did. Usually, by now, I would be getting into the Halloween spirit by going to Halloween parties, but with these unprecedented times, that is obviously not an option.

This Q&A was originally published online on Oct. 21, 2020

SPORTS

BEST OF OCTOBER 2020

HEALING IS WINNING Athletes with prior injuries reflect on physical therapy, explain physical, mental benefits HANNAH BAER STORY

LUKE MILLER, HANNAH BAER PHOTOS

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or athletes like Justin Pickett, varsity football player and senior, injuries are pretty common in sports.

Throughout his athletic career, which included playing both football and basketball, he broke his ankle, foot and leg. Those injuries required Pickett to go through physical therapy.

Pickett said that rehabilitation can be challenging for athletes, but it can also strengthen them mentally and physically in the long run.

October is National Physical Therapy Month, and even though physical therapy focuses mainly on the “physical” part, as Pickett said, it can affect athletes in other ways.

“It’s taught me a lot through mental and physical health and how to take care of my body and prevent things like that,” Pickett said via email.

DID YOU KNOW? Physical therapy started as a female-only profession. The first association was formed in 1921 and was called the “American Women’s Physical Therapeutic Association”.

THE GOOD BODY SOURCE

SPEAK-UP! ANDREW CAITO SPEAK-UPS

NATHAN HUANG GRAPHIC

Pickett said one of the biggest challenges of not being able to play due to an injury was watching the team play without him.

He said, “Physical therapy is definitely a frustrating (thing) because you have to sit there and do things that seem so simple but are so difficult at the time.”

Kylee Ort, an athletic trainer with Ascension St. Vincent who works with this school’s athletes, said she attributed her love for sports as the reason behind why she chose to become a physical therapist, in addition to the career allowing for her to work with athletes. “(Athletes) are always motivated to get better and feel better,” Ort said via email.

Ort also explained some of the challenges that come with being an athletic trainer.

For example, she said how physical therapy can be more than just the “physical” aspect, since the mental part can play a huge role in these athletes and their performance on the field, especially after an injury.

“At times, the mental health approach to athletes is the biggest part of our job,” Ort said.

MENTALLY SHARP:

Junior Baenan McKeown (25) gets ready to kick a soccer ball during a home soccer game against Guerin Catholic High School.

McKeown said it is important to be motivated during physical therapy, and said he was mentally sharp after his injury.

She said, “We can be an athlete’s favorite person and least favorite person all in the same day. Sometimes we are the bad guy for taking them out of a game or out of practice, and that’s when we have to paint them the bigger picture.”

She also said there is always the option of seeing a sports psychologist for athletes in more difficult situations regarding physical therapy.

Ort said, “When athletes are mad or frustrated with coaches, we are there to support them and let them get their frustrations out in a safe space.

How has physical therapy affected you after your injury?

RICKY MONSEY, SOPHIA WARHURST SUBMITTED PHOTOS

“After I tore my ACL, I have used (physical therapy) to strengthen my muscles that have atrophy. Also, I used physical therapy to strengthen my tendons from when I got surgery from injury, and now my soccer games are better.”

Junior Ricky Monsey

“When I was recovering from surgery, I got weak, and I couldn’t even move my left foot. Physical therapy helped me get back into dancing by strengthening my leg but also my mind, and I was stronger afterwards.”

Sophomore Sophia Warhurst

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27

TOWARD THERAPY Take a look at the benefits of physical therapy “We are very lucky when it comes to mental health and working for St. Vincent because when an issue goes above our qualifications we can forward them on to our Sports psychologist to get the necessary care they need.”

Similar to Pickett, Baenan McKeown, varsity soccer player and junior, also suffered an injury that forced him to go through physical therapy. McKeown pulled his hamstring, suffering a Grade 1 pull.

He said that he went through a return to play progression during physical therapy, which assessed his strength level in order to allow him to return to participating again safely.

He also said the doctors gave him exercises to help strengthen his muscles and to help prevent more injuries from occurring in the future.

Like Pickett, McKeown said the injury affected his thoughts on soccer and what he thought he could improve on to help make him a better athlete.

“If my hamstrings weren’t strong enough, then I would tell

Physical therapy can often be as effective as surgery. Treatment by a therapist can avoid surgery altogether

Treatment costs can become up to 50% less expensive as compared to imaging or intensive care

Physical therapists identify, diagnose and attempt to treat your movement problems

APTA, HEALTH SERVICES RESEARCH SOURCES

BY THE NUMBERS

46%

of patients surveyed sought relief for their backs

95,000 members of the American Physical Therapy Association THE GOOD BODY SOURCE

myself, ‘Okay, I have to get into the gym and work on my hamstring strength so this doesn’t happen again.’ (It) kind of just motivated me to change my training to make sure it doesn’t happen again,” McKeown said.

He said ultimately, going through physical therapy made him a better athlete and improved his performance on the field.

“I’d say (it made me a better athlete) because you obviously need it if you want to return to play a) healthier and b) sooner than if you hadn’t done physical therapy,” McKeown said. “So in that sense I

definitely think it’s made me a lot better athlete because it’s allowed me to actually return to play 100%.”

Even though physical therapy can occasionally be very tedious and time-consuming, it has many benefits for athletes both mentally and physically.

Pickett said, “It shows my weaknesses and helps me better prepare for the game I play and for my future. It also has taught me so much about mental health and how to H overcome adversity.”

This story was originally published online on Oct. 13, 2020 TOUGH IT OUT:

Senior Justin Pickett walks off the field after a road football game against Pike High School.

Pickett said he has had quite a few injuries in the past but has used physical therapy as a way to strengthen his injured parts as well as his mind. Many athletes around the world have used physical therapy, which is now starting to become popular among high school athletes.

28 B E S T O F O C T O B E R 2 0 2 0

VIRTUALLY CHEERING In place of in-person competition, cheerleading team submits recorded routines DARSHINI SHANKAR STORY

D

ue

to

changes

LUKE MILLER PHOTOS

with

COVID-19, many sports now follow safety precautions to limit the exposure at competitions and games and the cheerleading team at this school is no exception. In order to continue their season, the team plans to participate in virtual competitions through video submissions.

According to Brooke Kibler, head coach of the competitive cheerleading team, the competitions are entirely virtual as the teams record a video of their routine, submit that video online and receive virtual feedback from a

judge. She said this imposes challenges as judges are more critical of videos.

“We have to be practically perfect because (judges) can pause and rewind and go back and look at so many things that (the cheerleaders are) doing either right or wrong and they’re either going to get points for it or get penalized for it,” Kibler said.

In addition to judges being more critical, the absence of an audience presents challenges. For Riley Shockey, varsity cheerleader and senior, it is difficult to compete in the new virtual environment.

CHEER UP: Riley Shockey, varsity cheerleader and senior, pumps up her team for an upcoming routine. Shockey said when she performs in front of an audience there is more excitement and adrenaline.

Shockey said, “I think it might make it a little harder, not having a crowd there because when there’s a crowd, I feel like it’s more fun. Your adrenaline is running and it just all gives to muscle memory and you aren’t really thinking.”

Similarly, Samantha “Sam” Jackson, junior varsity cheerleader and junior, said competing in the gym the entire time made performing difficult.

“I feel like it’s just hard to get into the right mindset of a real competition,” Jackson said.

Emma Olssen, varsity cheerleader and senior, said, in many ways, virtual competitions are not different from practices.

She said, “There’s not a final thing.

It’s just like always practice and the practice is a competition but all you do is practice. So, there’s really no way to show it to anyone else.”

However, some cheerleaders said they see benefits with virtual competitions as they are less stressful than in-person competitions.

According to Olssen, it is beneficial to have multiple attempts to record as it allows the team to perform at its best.

Olssen said, “For virtual competitions, you can take a video as many times as you want and just submit the best one. So we’re always going to put our best video out there, (as) compared to a competition; like sometimes you can fall. Here, if you fall, you just delete it and redo it.”

According to Kilber, this helps the team experience less anxiety and pressure as they perform.

Kibler said, “This year, those girls that might have some performance anxiety, that’s gone, because if we record a routine and we fall, you just record it again.”

So far, competitive cheerleading is the only sport to switch to virtual competitions. Athletics Director Jim Inskeep said via email this is because competitive cheerleading follows guidelines of the Indiana Association of School Principals (IASP). All other school sports follow the IHSAA with plans to compete in person.

According to Kibler, the IASP switched to a virtual format due to the high amounts of physical contact that occur with in-person cheerleading competitions.

We have to be practically perfect because (judges) can pause and rewind and go back and look at so many things that (the cheerleaders are) doing either right or wrong.

BROOKE KIBLER, HEAD COMPETITIVE CHEER COACH

“It’s different (from) a football game where it’s one school and one school,” Kibler said. “In a cheerleading competition, it’s like 15 different (schools) so you’re bringing in so much more exposure.”

Along with virtual competitions, the competitive cheerleading team previously made changes in its practices to reduce exposure.

Kibler said, “As far as stunt groups go, because we have to keep them in small groups and small cohorts, we can’t change anything around. So if one person gets hurt or one person tests positive (for COVID-19) or is exposed, it’s only limited to that one stunt group as opposed to the whole team being taken out.”

On the other hand, Jackson said there is a sense of togetherness because the team spends more time practicing together.

She said, “I don’t think it has been that bad because we still are able to spend more time together now.”

Cheerleaders like Olssen said they are glad that these changes have been made so that they still have a season.

Olssen said, “At least we have something because a lot of other states, or a lot of other high school programs, just said you can’t do anything. Like close contact, we wouldn’t be allowed to do that or any of the things that we used to do because we get too close to people.

But, we’re still allowed.”

H This story was originally published online on Oct. 16, 2020

TAKE TWO: Emma Olssen (far right), varsity cheerleader and senior, performs for a recorded take. Olssen said she finds being able to record her routine beneficial as it allows for multiple attempts and do-overs.

According to Olssen, she and her team can do as many takes as they want to get the perfect take, which would then be submitted for competition.

PERSPECTIVES

BEST OF OCTOBER 2020

CC: S EMAILS With increased need for virtual communication, tasks, CCS should open Google inboxes for students HILITE STAFF EDITORIAL

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OUR STANCE We recommend CCS enables the use of Google inboxes for students in light of virtual learning. This creates a standard for communicating and staff.

ith hybrid and virtual schedules, the need for communication among teachers and students is ever-growing. As teachers prefer different methods of communication such as Canvas messages or emails, students are often confused as there is not a standard method of contact. Virtual students especially rely on these means of communication in order to clarify assignments, grades and questions. These students should not have to debate which communication method to use.

Furthermore, teachers are implementing more online programs, such as Quizlet, Perusall and AP Classroom that require creating accounts.

There is sometimes confusion with this as to whether students should use their school or personal email to sign up. Although there may not be concerns with using school emails to sign up, each program is different and may require students to check their inboxes to verify the sign up, resulting in confusion.

We commend CCS for setting up Google accounts for every student already, but with the changes this year, email inboxes are becoming more of a necessity as well.

Therefore, as the HiLite staff, we recommend that CCS open the inboxes for all CCS Google accounts.

Teachers will more easily be able to tell what student sends each email, and there is no risk of emails being marked as spam because the addresses coming from an outside

domain. Additionally, students will be able to create accounts on academic websites without confusion regarding which email to use.

While there are many concerns regarding privacy and liability with school emails, this can be addressed with a consent form. Students and parents would be able to understand the terms and conditions of opening a CCS Google inbox. We also acknowledge that students do have means of communicating with their teachers through personal emails or Canvas messaging and the problem is not shared by everyone.

Additionally, creating CCS Google inboxes for students opens up more potential technological issues that would affect the IT staff.

With many assignments being online this year, the IT staff have already encountered several challenges.

However, the IT staff could create forms for inbox issues to be able to address them all at once. Doing so also saves teachers troubles, as students are able to directly report their problems to IT staff instead of asking teachers about communication problems.

Although enabling CCS Google inboxes may open up challenges, creating a standard for communication among teachers and students as well as separating studentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; personal emails from school-related activities would be beneficial to both H students and teachers.

The editorial was originally published on Oct. 22, 2020

HILITE.ORG

31

UPDATE, UPGRADE Apple’s iOS 14 update brings helpful features to iPhones, needs improvement TESSA COLLINSON COLUMN

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ith apple’s recent my applications (apps) to match the release of iOS 14, aesthetic of my phone background, there have as well as get rid of the pesky been a number of new red notification circle. features added to the More than that, these iPhone. As someone changes are functional, who finds tremenallowing me to easily dous satisfaction in check the weather, Instagram pages my phone batwith specific tery and the date. color themes, In iMessage, the changing her ability to pin Spotify playlist group conversaimages to be the tions helped me ~AESTHETIC~ same color scheme immensely with and coordinating finding important my lockscreen with the color of my school-related conversations buried phone, I was ecstatic when videos within my personal messages. Withof people’s customized phone pages in these chats, being able to reply to started popping up on my Instaspecific messages eases the process gram page. Using “widgets,” I have of answering a question asked ten more photos of my favorite K-Pop messages ago and “tagging” specific groups on my home screen. With people for their opinion helps make “shortcuts,” I can change the icons of sure no one gets left out.

SPEAK-UP!

LEAH TAN SPEAK-UPS, PHOTOS

How do you like the new iOS 14 update?

“I think the new update is really cool, especially with all the new features that are all extremely helpful. The customizable widgets is probably my favorite feature since you can make your phone look super cool on the homescreen..”

Freshman Claire Swathwood

“I really enjoy (iOS 14). My favorite part of iOS 14 is the ability to customize what apps are visible on the Home Screen because it helps to organize my apps better.”

Junior Shiva Viswanath

Scan this to read the full version of Tessa’s column and to see screenshots of her favorite iOS 14 home screens

One morning, I laid in my bed as I reorganized my phone and familiarized myself with the new features. Now, I have been able to find the perfect blend of aesthetic and functional due to the customizability of widgets and shortcuts.

Despite my love for my new phone layout, there are a few details that irk me. Unfortunately, a lot of the aesthetically pleasing widgets require downloading third-party apps. Further, since these are not Apple-created widgets, there’s white text below them to indicate what app I used to add them to my screen, creating an awkward space below my widgets. Meanwhile, using shortcuts adds the time it takes to open my apps, as it opens the shortcuts page before it opens the app itself. In iMessage, pinned group conversations no longer appear in the list with your other messages, causing me to panic when I’m looking for new messages from my chats. However, this may be some user confusion and will be fine as I continue to adjust to iOS 14.

As Apple releases more updates to iOS 14, I look forward to more customizable features to widgets like those provided by third-party apps and even apps such as Apple Music, Soundcloud, and Spotify. I also hope they shorten times to open apps using shortcuts and continue to work on the user interface in iMessage.

In the meantime, I’ll be in the corner of a room, happily smiling down H at my new phone screen.

The views in this column do not necessarily reflect the views of the HiLite staff. Reach Tessa Collinson at tcollinson@hilite.org The column was originally published on Oct. 22, 2020

32

BEST OF OCTOBER 2020

JUST KEEP Drawing As Inktober continues, artists, everyone should push themselves to participate without pushing their boundaries OLIVIA CHILDRESS COLUMN

A

s we move through the

month of October, we are reminded of all that comes with this incredible time of year: pumpkin spice, scary movies and changing leaves to name a few.

However, if you are a frequenter of the art hallways like myself, you know that October brings one of the year’s greatest challenges: Inktober. For the uninitiated, Inktober is a challenge where participants draw based off of a prompt each day during the month of October. Though there are no strict guidelines to artists’ drawings, most artists comply with the namesake and create 31 pen-and-ink drawings to go with each daily prompt.

Sounds simple, right? To some, maybe. But I, as well as many others, dread the coming of the first day of October. Keeping up with the challenges quickly becomes a daily task, and it is too easy to fall behind. I believe a lot of this has to do with the pressure of perfection and flawlessness among artists.

IT WASN’T ME

This creates the Inktober burnOn top of the stress of keeping out that so many artists know so up, the materials of pen and ink well. This year, as each day of the can be daunting for most artists. month passes, I am trying to The materials themselves force turn away from this mindset you to accept the permaand I hope you will join me, nence of mark making. artist or otherwise.

Many artists who special Push yourself to keep ize in creating with pencil, drawing and keep creatpaint or digital media can ing, and do not forget to have a difficult time adjustgive yourself grace when it ing to not being able to cover gets tough. Do not pressure up mistakes or simply blend KEEP DRAWING yourself to create showstopthem out. It is not uncomping art every day; use this mon for this to stop artists in month to be creative with their tracks and turn them away your portrayal of prompts, to think from the challenge altogether. outside of the box and to just keep Inktober should be a time for practicing without all the pressure. artists to exercise their creativity and Not every day will be perfect, but push themselves even in the face of perfection is not the ultimate goal. difficulties. However, it is not alScan Happy Inktober, and keep drawing, ways advertised as such. Instead of to read but with a better mindset. a fun activity to participate in when H you can, as a way to get your creativThe views in this column do not necessarily about art ity flowing and create just for the reflect the views of the HiLite staff. Reach challenges Olivia sake of it, I’ve seen Inktober morph Childress at ochildress@hilite.org and their into a task that forces artists to creThis editorial was originally published ate full-scale works of art every day. influence online on Oct. 15, 2020

SOWMYA CHUNDI GRAPHIC PERSPECTIVE

dude i caught you EMERGENCY EMERGENCY venting by cafeteria! EMERGENCY

It wasn't me

OK I SAW YOU VENT NEXT TO E SOFA.

I just SAW YOU KILL ON CAMS!!!

It wasn't me It wasn't me

HILITE.ORG

33

POPULAR VOTE Voters must avoid casting ballots for celebrities who take away from important issues in elections CADY ARMSTRONG COLUMN

W

SOWMYA CHUNDI GRAPHIC

hen my sister told

the Constitution and reckless disregard me rapper Kanye West for the First Amendment, West shows was running for presihe hasn’t done the proper research to dent, I found it funny. When people educate himself—a huge red flag for a think of Kanye West, they think potential leader of our country. of his Yeezy shoe brand or West isn’t the only unthe Kardashian family— qualified celebrity to run not him seated in the for office. In 2002, actor Oval Office making deArnold Schwarzenegcisions that can affect ger ran for Califorthe lives of millions. nia’s governor and However, once got the job. HowI was done laughever, it quickly ing at the thought became clear his of him in charge gubernatorial duof our country, I ties were not his realized how West top priority.

YE? NO running could During his negatively affect the outcome of the time in office, Schwarzenegger 2020 election. Thus, he, along with made cameos in movies such as other candidates who are not serious “The Kid” and “The Expendables,” about the position’s responsibilities, and he resumed his acting career should not run for office. quickly after exiting office. In addiWest has a huge platform and tion to this, his campaign, similar can spread his message to millions of to West’s, featured a slogan that young voters who admire him. Howreferenced a catchphrase he said ever, putting his name on the ballot frequently at press events. takes away from important issues our This reference helps remind people country is expected to encounter over of his celebrity status and also serves the next four years. Despite going as a publicity stunt to expose him to a through the process of officially runlarger audience. Furthermore, it shows ning for president, it is clear West isn’t he became governor to advance his taking his candidacy seriously. acting career rather than make a differOn his website, he lists 10 main ence for the people of California. things he would do if elected. Among Despite publicity being a driving these main goals was his contradicforce behind the candidacy of most tory initiative to “restore faith and recelebrities, West will still be on the vive our Constitutional commitment ballot in 21 states as an option for to freedom of religion and the free presidency. This is an added weight to exercise of one’s faith, demonstrated voters, with some of them having to by restoring prayer in the classroom decide between voting for someone including spiritual foundations.” famous who they like and someone This very sentence contradicts itwhose policies they support. self, with West promising to ensure When people vote for West as a the freedom to believe in any religion joke or in spite of other candidates, by forcing prayer into the classroom. they perpetuate the idea that the elecWith this large misinterpretation of tion shouldn’t be taken seriously.

16 Read about how students are helping with congressional campaigns and getting involved in the election process

This takes away from what elections are really about: making sure you are well-represented in government. Clearly, West, and other unprepared celebrities, shouldn’t run for office. Citizens should not entertain his H candidacy by voting for him.

The views in this column do not necessarily reflect the views of the HiLite staff. Reach Cady Armstrong at carmstrong@hilite.org This column was originally published online on Oct. 20, 2020

CELEB CANDIDATES Check out these celebrities, actors who ran for office after building their career in media

KANYE WEST

Kanye West announced at the Video Music Awards he would run for president in 2020 and every term after that. His name will appear on the ballot in 21 different states this year

ROSEANNE BARR

Actress and comedian Roseanne Barr won 70,000 votes for president in 2012.

She later filmed a documentary about her experiences as a candidate

RONALD REAGAN

Before his presidency, Ronald Reagan was an actor in Hollywood.

He left acting to run for governor of California, and later became the 40th president of the United States PEOPLE SOURCE

15 MINUTES OF FAME

BEST OF OCTOBER 2020

THE MUSIC MAN Q&A with junior Caleb Beik on playing over 20 instruments SAUMYA SOMASI Q&A

CALEB BEIK SUBMITTED PHOTOS

CHLOE SUN PHOTO ILLUSTRATION

What instruments do you play?

(I play) 23 or 24 (instruments). My main instruments, or the ones I play more than anything are piano, guitar, bass guitar, drumset, and then I play mallet instruments, string base, violin, clarinet to name a few.

What was your inspiration for learning all of those instruments?

I’ve been playing music since I was three years old. I started taking classical piano lessons but I’ve started drifting away from that to more rock, jazz, pop kind of stuff. I started taking (drum) lessons at School of Rock when I was about nine. They encouraged me to take a few more instruments so I learned a lot of instruments there and then went to string instruments and wind instruments.

What is your favorite thing about learning these instruments?

Being able to play shows is just the best feeling ever. I don’t really know how to explain it. There are just some shows where you know everything is going super well and the crowd’s super into it and everyone is having a good time. It’s a great feeling knowing you’re giving that feeling. Honestly the best part is just communicating with the other musicians.

This Q&A was originally published online on Oct. 20, 2020

HILITE.ORG

Has playing music had any effect on your mental health or organization?

It’s honestly had a positive effect on my mental health. In terms of performance at school, it definitely helps with my memory and taking up information. I’ve had to memorize five to six hours of music for a gig in two days, so trying to pick up a certain unit for a test is a lot easier for me and comes a lot faster.

What has the major challenge with learning the instruments been?

It depends on the instrument. With every instrument it’s a whole different technique. It’s almost like learning a different language. Although it is the same overall format (with) how the notes, scales and theory behind it works, it’s all different (when it comes to) how the instrument as a whole operates. So with every instrument it takes a lot of time to get used to the new way of playing.

Scan this to watch Beik play piano in his band, Indy Gorgeous Club I’M WITH THE BAND: (RIGHT) Beik, far right, plays the keyboard during an outdoor performance in his band, Indy Gorgeous Club. The band recently won the Nickel Plate Arts’ Emerging Artist of the Year award.

(BOTTOM) Beik, fourth from the left, plays for his friends at the School of Rock. Besides music lessons, Beik said he dedicates around three to four hours a day to practicing his instruments. “I spend most of my time in the music room,” he said.

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LITEBOX

BEST OF OCTOBER 2020

FLYING COLORS From left to right, senior Max Mylott, senior Ella Hebert, sophomore Allie Wolf, senior Jacob Young and junior Zach Osborne throw colored paint powder in celebration of the end of the FT3K Color Run Race on Oct. 3. The Cabinet organized the event in order to raise money for Riley Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hospital.

OLIVIA MCKEE PHOTO

This photo was originally published online on Oct. 20, 2020