Huntley High School's Voice Student Newsmagazine: March 13 issue

MARCH 13, Volume 23, Issue 7

the voi ce est.1997

WHAT IS GOING ON? THE WOO SITUATION STRONG BONDS WITH SENIOR BASKETBALL PLAYERS

IMMINENT TEACHER LAYOFFS IN DISTRICT

CONTENTS 04 19 26 30 34 45 51

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huntleyvoice.com

NEWS

A day-by-day breakdown of the Woo incident and its aftermath

OPINION

The question everybody’s wallet is asking: is SAT prep worth it?

HUMANS OF HUNTLEY

The Alex O’Connell Experience Alex O’Connell

Tommy Giese on the impact high school had on his life

FEATURES

Blake “King” Kellinger claims Mr. HHS title, reveals its importance to him

A&E

Classic horror film series adapts Edgar Allan Poe stories with humor, style

Boys Basketball Wins Regional finals

Ryder Shepardson

SPORTS

Before graduating, senior basketball players reflect upon their time on the team

EDITORIAL

When the dust settles, community must recognize childish behavior

Editorial Board Editor in Chief Ashley Reilly

Managing Editor Braden Turk

Section Editors

Kate Alvarado, Ellie Armstrong, Meghan Bentley, Nikki Darnall, Olivia Mack

Photo Editor Sydney Laput

Marketing Editor Natalie VonderHeide

EDITORIAL POLICY

Katelyn Bower: Dedicated student athlete

Tanpreet Bhathal

Staff

Staff Writers

Ethan Babicz, Molly Baker, Sarahi Barcenas, Kimberlynn Bjurstrom, Trevor Book, Taylor Calame, Veronica Castillo, Emmy Cohen, Caitlyn Gooden, Emma Gribbens, Sara Hursey, Maggie Kirwin, Taylor Koop, Hailey Pohl, Peyton Siegler

Photographers Katie Ambrogio

Adviser

Dennis Brown

Social Media Manager Grace Carpenter

The Voice is an official student-produced medium of news and information published and produced by Huntley High School News Media Production students. The Voice has been established as designated public forum for student writers and editors to inform and educate their readers and to discuss issues of concern to their audience. It will not be reviewed or restrained by school officials prior to publication or distribution. Because school officials do not engage in prior review, and the content of The Voice is determined by and reflects only the views of the student staff and not school officials or the school itself; its student editorial board and staff members assume complete legal and financial liability for the content of the publication.

News Medical

Adapting to halting life obstacle Diabetes support group connects and unites people of all ages

T

By Hailey Pohl

The door shuts quietly behind Susan Brongiel, clink, and she assesses the patient quickly. She has seen all kinds of people: sick ones, angry ones, sad ones, you name it! But they all have one thing in common: diabetes.

“Back in about 1980, I was working in a charge unit and had a patient who was admitted to the hospital with diabetes. The doctor wrote the order for ‘diabetes education,’ so I went to my charge nurse and asked ‘Do we have diabetes education materials here?’ She says ‘Oh yeah, we have a little video.’ Roll the monitor into the patient’s room, pop the tape in, and voila, they’ll know all about diabetes. Back in those days, the 1980s there really wasn’t a prevalence of diabetes.” But of course, that was not enough.

“I’ve gotten [patients] right from the beginning and I would do all the training on them because it was a primary care office. There’s a gamut of feelings that most of the patients will feel. Some will feel angry, some feel that it’s their fault, and others will ask ‘Why me?’ They’ll go through the Elisabeth Kübler-Ross, an author of the famous book Death and Dying, feelings of loss and go through a grieving process. When they’re diagnosed with diabetes, some will be all lion and say ‘Oh my god, okay, I know I’ve kinda screwed up, but I’m gonna make sure I do better.’ Some of them will also say ‘I don’t want to have diabetes’ and they’ll go through denial.”

The diabetes in question can be of two types: type 1 or type 2, pretty complicated, right? Type 1 diabetes

Woman holding diabetes book smiles

is caused when the pancreas fails to produce insulin whatsoever, meaning no glucose is able to be taken up by the cells. In contrast, type 2 diabetics are able to make their own insulin, but it no longer works efficiently or effectively.

This disease can definitely feel very restricting in a world designed for people without diabetes, but others have found a way to cope by attending support groups, more specifically the one at Northwestern Medicine.

A small bunch of ladies and gentlemen check into a private room some have been here many times, others not so much. As they wait, they prepare questions, giggle with friends, or even flip through their own diabetic cookbook.

Registered Nurse and Diabetes Educator Susan Brongiel starts off the session by introducing herself and the purpose of this session: “We are here to help and guide you on your path with diabetes.”

People who have had diabetes for

years came together to talk over this issue, asking and theorizing the best way to manage this disease. ‘Do I eat before bed? What exercises should I do? How do I lower my blood sugar levels in the morning?’

One person in particular even shared her homemade cookies from the personal cookbook she owned and they were absolutely sugar free.

The pure warmth and support from this group is able to leave many relaxed and comforted despite taking on this lifelong disease by the horns.

It is truly an experience to put yourself into and to just keep going.

These people are here to be your friend; they are here to show anyone how to function. Overall, this could totally be something even HHS students can get together with a medical professional and talk about their disease. It is definitely not the nicest subject, but finding a friend to battle this disease alongside you could mean the world.

HUNTLEYVOICE.COM 3

News Coach Woo

What happened to Coach Woo? Given all that’s happened in the last two weeks regarding the resignation of campus security aide and coach John Woo, we at the Voice have been diligent trying to get to the bottom of what truly happened. It hasn’t been easy; administrators cannot talk about personnel matters and our FOIA request to see the video of the incident was denied by the district (because the video is part of an ongoing court case).

Still, through interviews and other reporting, we have put together a timeline of what has happened.

On Friday, Feb. 21, near the end of the sixth hour lunch period, around 12:45, two female students got into an argument in the cafeteria. According to several eyewitnesses, students began to swarm around, and two boys stood on chairs yelling “fight fight fight!!” Both of the boys had previously played football and had Woo as their coach.

Woo arrived at the scene and immediately radioed for backup. As the two girls were being taken care of, the two boys were told to get off the chairs. After they were off the chairs Woo grabbed each boy by the collar and started to bring them towards the office.

“These two guys were encouraging a fight, then a bunch of security guards and officers came up and tried to break up the fight,” sophomore Ally Berens said. “They were confused about what was going on. Woo dragged one of the guys to the side and said, ‘you’ve done this so many 4 THE VOICE MARCH 2020

Huntley community rally against the controversial resignation of Chong (John) Woo, former HHS campus supervisor Written by the Huntley Voice editorial board

times. Why today, why this girl?’

Belin was there and a bunch of office security guards.”

Many eyewitnesses claimed that another security guard, Principal Marcus Belin, and School Resource Officer Ryan Gregorio told Woo to unhand the boys, but the command was not followed.

The incident was captured on school security cameras and was reviewed by administration.

Saturday/Sunday, Feb. 22/23: The mother of one of the boys involved took to Facebook to bring attention to the incident.

“One of the lunch supervisors came over… Grabbed [my son] and his friend by their hoodies and dragged them to the office, choking both of them. This is assault by an adult on a student,” she said in her post.

The mother also said that she had reached out to the principal, dean, and superintendent and that the school was investigating the issue.

Throughout the weekend, many parents, students and members of the community began to express their thoughts on the incident in two Facebook groups, Huntley Chat and Huntley Opinions.

Soon, the news got out: Woo was no longer employed by District 158.

Many parents began to question the district’s actions and criticize those involved, including the two children Woo disciplined.

Others posting testimonials describing who Woo is to them and

how he will be missed.

“I have known and coached with John Woo for over 15 years,” assistant football coach Mike Doty said in a Facebook post. “We have been through a lot together and after I heard what he just went through at Huntley High School it left me devastated for him. During the time that he has been at the high school I have seen kids grow to love and respect my great friend while continually giving back to the kids.”

Some of the information was true, but much of it was based on nothing more than rumours. This was frustrating for many, including board president Michael Fleck.

“For social media to blow up saying he was fired, that’s rather upsetting as a member of the community we’re running on a false narrative,” Fleck said.

Monday, Feb. 24: As soon as the Voice staff found out that Coach Woo would no longer be at HHS, we immediately reached out to Principal Marcus Belin.

As it is a personnel matter, Belin let us know that by law he could not comment.

As students returned to school, Woo was not to be seen. Many students approached administration and security personnel asking what had happened and where Woo was.

More students took to social media, praising Coach Woo and questioning administration’s actions.

Parents continued on Facebook to spread false narratives, even attacking

News Coach Woo the students involved.

Tuesday, Feb. 25: Students created and posted a petition titled “Give Woo his job back.” As of Sunday, March 8, had 2,047 signatures.

The petition reads in part: “Students are upset that Coach Woo is no longer walking the school halls and bonding with students. He was the reason many of us felt comfortable in school and we would seek him for comfort and problems of our own.

So we need to get Woo his job back because this should be no reason for a man to lose his job.”

Donna Morreal, a member of the community and avid supporter of Woo, began selling buttons for Woo. Some just had WOO printed on them, and some read I support COACH WOO. Wednesday Feb. 26: Another petition, “Get Mr.Woo his job back.” has started. As of Sunday, Mar. 8, the petition had 7,334 signatures.

The petition reads: “Mr. Woo was wrongfully accused of assault on a student and was fired because of it.

He didn’t just work at the school, he loved his job. He did everything he could to put a smile on everyone's face and put everyone before himself. He loved everyone there and would never even think of harming a student. He deserves to be able to come back and continue to do what he loves.”

Friday Feb. 28: Early in the afternoon, Voice staff writer Natalie VonderHeide received an email from Board President Michael Fleck, clarifying some of the misinformation that had been floating around the community. He said the following: Mr. Woo was not terminated. Mr. Woo resigned after discussion of the incident with the District Adminis-

tration, including facts unknown to the public on social media.

Building administration and campus security were present at the time of the incident and witnessed the entire event first hand. Their A. Reilly account is consistent Woo Supporters at the BOE meeting with Mr. Woo’s own account and consistent with video. to cause or is physically causing harm He also made a larger point involv- to someone else? In any situation that ing student safety and the board’s is a concern of safety, please direct expectations of the staff: students who are not involved away “District 158 has an overall policy from the area.” of ‘All Students - Always.’ We take that very seriously. No student is afSaturday Feb 29: A press release forded any less protection or treated “Statement on Community Petimore harshly based on their tions and Concerns” is posted by the social or economic stature, their acdistrict. It reads in part: “While we ademic performance, their behavior are legally barred from sharing subperformance, their race, religion, ori- stantive details about the student-inentation or any other factor. All stu- volved incident that preceded Mr. dents means exactly that: all students. Woo’s resignation, we can share that The adults in the room are expected the incident was witnessed first-hand to act and respond in a certain man- by multiple administrators and a law ner with that in mind, and according enforcement officer. In addition, the to policy, law and regulation. When incident was captured on the school’s that does not happen, then we have security cameras. We ask for your pafailed that student. tience while ongoing processes within These are students. These are our the District and our public safety students, and they deserve to be free agencies continue.” from harm, including those times “We are troubled by the tenor of when they are not acting approprisome conversations that have ocately. The level of response to an curred online regarding this matter. incident must also be appropriate.”

While emotions understandably run Later that afternoon, an “HHS high in certain situations, we ask Safety Memo” was sent out to all individuals engaged in conversations Huntley HS staff. At the bottom of about this matter to refrain from the memo is a section addressing assigning blame, assuming negative physical altercations: intent in others, and engaging in “DO NOT get between fightrumors.” ing students unless you believe it is absolutely necessary to prevent Thursday, Mar 4: Dozens of supserious injury and you feel comfortporters packed the District 158 Comable doing so. The questions you can mittee of the Whole Meeting to speak ask yourself: Is this student going to on behalf of Woo. Fourteen parents cause or is physically causing harm and students spoke at the meeting. to themselves? Is this student going

see WOO page 6

HUNTLEYVOICE.COM 5

WOO page 5

happened to him wasn’t right,” sophomore Cassie Vargas said during the walkout.

Principal Belin supported the students right to peacefully protest.

“For me, one of the things that I’ve always told you all is participating in civic engagement is important and you all N. VonderHeide have the right to as stu HHS students walk out to support Woo dents. You know we have adults that Some of the parents targeted the are around just for keeping the peace, students and their parents, but the which is what we’re responsible for students only spoke to Woo’s characdoing and making sure to discipline ter and how he made their day better. for a safe environment for you all,” “I loved him like he was my own Belin said. dad,” junior William Hartzog said.”

That day, Ashley Reilly, editor Coming to school every day got in chief of The Voice, sat down and better once I got to see him every day. interviewed Superintendent Scott Earlier this year, my brother’s been Rowe. While he couldn’t address the gone for over a year, and he served in Woo situation specifically, he did offer the US Navy. And the first year was some insights on the district’s philosoreally hard for me to realize what was phy regarding school safety. going on in my life. He talked to me, “Our number one priority is stugave me a Jolly Rancher every day dents,” Rowe said. “We want to be sure and every day was something new, that we are able to maintain student he wouldn’t give me the same [flavor] safety at all times. every day.”

Rowe explained that all campus se“I never even had him as a coach, curity personnel are put through Cribut just as a friend. He was always sis Prevention Intervention training, there for all the students he always part of which focuses on nonviolent checked in with everyone. It didn’t crisis intervention. According to the matter if he knew you,” senior Sydney CPI’s website, their training provides Novak. educators with the tools to prevent, Everyone that spoke asked for the manage, and debrief challenging district to reconsider the employment behaviors through the use of de-escaof Woo. lation and prevention skills.

Even so, the website does admit Friday, Mar. 5: Following the board the following: “sometimes there are meeting students took it upon themlast-resort situations where restraint is selves to demonstrate their support needed-only if a student presents an for Woo. Roughly 100 students walked immediate threat of physical harm to out of the school at 11:25 and more self or others.” students walked out during seventh “If a student is in a situation where hour. they are going to be a danger to “I know every day at lunch. Everythemselves or others, I think as adults body goes to talk to him because he it’s our responsibility to ensure they’re makes everyone’s day better and what 6 THE VOICE MARCH 20202

safe. If they’re not responding to you verbally, you have to make a good judgment call on what’s appropriate for that situation,” said Rowe. “Having no other option is what’s important.

And it’s not only about keeping the students safe. It’s about keeping our staff safe from someone who is a danger to themselves or others.”

Even so, Rowe did admit that classroom teachers are not given CPI training.

“General education teachers don’t receive CPI training because they are not typically in situations where student restraint will be necessary.

The high school elected to have those employees with a higher likelihood of being in a situation where restrain may be needed to be trained,” Rowe said in an email. “To be clear, CPI is not a training that will assist you in breaking up an altercation between two students. It is an approach to calming and potentially restraining a person who is an immediate threat to himself/herself or others.”

The district, as of March 9, has no further plans of training for teachers in the event of a physical altercation.

S. Laput

News Graduation

Finally, all the work pays off Understanding the meaning of each graduation cord

H

By Caitlyn Gooden

Huntley High School students have countless opportunities to participate in many amazing programs. Being involved with the community and extracurriculars offers students valuable life experiences. What many do not know about is the recognition that comes along with being a part of these programs.

There are multiple graduation cords, stoles, and medals that students can wear at graduation. These will recognize all of their hard work and involvement over the years.

Students can be recognized for their commitment to Silver Cord, National Honors Society, Medical Academy, Engineering Academy, blood donations, theatre, honor roll, Quill and Scroll, Future Business Leaders of America, Link Crew, and Student Council.

Students can earn Silver Cords by completing 100 hours of community service and logging them with a program called Innerview. If a student goes above and beyond and completes 200 hours of community service, they will wear their cord at graduation, along with their name being added to the Silver Cord plaque.

“It shows that at graduation students are being a part of their community, helping others, and volunteering their time,” Silver Cord sponsor Lindsay Sara said.

The program’s main goal is to give back and help students be involved.

This is a goal that is also shared with the NHS. In order for students to be part of NHS, they must have a 3.5 weighted cumulative grade point average, be involved with two extracur-

ricular activities, and have a minimum of 20 service hours completed when they apply.

Application essays must be accompanied by teacher recommendations where they are then reviewed by the faculty. Qualified students are accepted.

“National Honors Society is one of the most prestigious organizations in the nation. NHS looks at four things: scholarship, leadership, character, and service,” NHS sponsor Melanie Lyons said. “It’s not just [about] a student [getting] good grades. It really pushes members to get involved in the community and take [on] a leadership role. I think it’s just a really good life experience that [students] get in addition to the recognition.”

At graduation, NHS members wear a gold cord and can wear a blue stole if they complete double the required 60 service hours. In addition to those esteemed recognition cords, students also have the opportunity to wear the Red Cord.

Earning a Red Cord means that a student has attended the Vitalant blood drives and has donated blood four times. Vitalant is a non-profit organization that works with high school and allows students to donate if they are able.

“You’re helping hundreds of lives when you donate your blood, es-

pecially with all the things that are going on in the world today. Vitalant supplies blood to all of our local and regional hospitals so it stays in this area,” freshman Dean Karen Miller said.

Seniors who have been involved with the Medical or Engineering Academies can receive a gold medal with red, black, and white ribbon for Medical Academy. Then another gold medal with a red and black ribbon for Engineering Academy. Students who have participated in the Thespian Society, which is a theatre program for Huntley actors and actresses, are also recognized. Thespians can wear a white stole for their dedication to Huntley’s drama department.

In recent years Huntley has stopped

see CORDS page 9 HUNTLEYVOICE.COM 7

News Teachers

Teacher layoffs on the horizon As student population decreases, teachers are told to look for other jobs

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By Natalie VonderHeide

District 158 wraps up the 20192020 school year with a warning of teacher cuts and class size decreases.

On Feb. 12, Superintendent Scott Rowe sent out an email informing the educators in the district about student enrollment reductions and the correlation with future staffing.

Since the 2015-2016 school year, the district’s student population has dipped from 9,631 to 9,203. Additionally, the student to teacher ratio as of 2017 was 16:1; however, this is estimated to fall with the projected population dip.

A problem the district is also facing is that since these numbers are projected, nothing is for sure.

“They don’t take certain things into account,” union board member Brad Aney said. “If what the district is saying is going to happen in the future, which is a big ‘if,’ does happen, then ultimately, if a district of 9,000 students goes down by a thousand, there’s going to be a negative impact whether we want [it] or not.”

While more teachers and smaller class sizes can give children more one-on-one time, the fewer students enrolled in the district means the less money District 158 will receive from the state. When the district loses out on that money, there is not enough to afford as many teachers as there currently are.

Even though the district said they identified Marlowe Middle School for a projected population decrease, it won’t just be taking place there.

“It could make its way down to the elementary or it could actually make its way up to the high school because a lot of educators are certified either 8 THE VOICE MARCH 2020

N. VonderHeide Layoffs are primarily expected at the middle school level.

K-9 or 6-12,” Aney said. “It all depends on where everything fits in.”

Since Marlowe is made out of pods rather than a set of teachers for different subjects as in the high school, there cannot just be one teacher removed from each pod. This causes a problem for the district.

“Based on the enrollment trend at Marlowe Middle School, it will be necessary to reduce one team at each grade level at that school,” Rowe said.

“In addition, as enrollment in our early grades continues to decline, it will be necessary to reduce the number of teachers at the elementary level as well.”

Layoffs will be determined by three factors: seniority, endorsements, and evaluations. To prevent teachers from losing their job, the district is encouraging that any teachers seeing opportunities in other districts take them or retire if they planned on doing so.

The main point being made is that they do not want to lose any of their teachers, but it has come down to a

point where they have to make that decision.

“They are very proactive and are willing to listen to a lot of different ideas in order to save jobs,” Aney said. “It is nothing that the district ever wants to do.”

Currently, there is no way to describe how a teacher should be feeling. The range of teachers throughout the district puts almost every educator on the line, but the district is trying its best and will consider any ideas to save jobs.

Even students are concerned about their teachers losing their jobs.

“I really enjoy the teachers in this school and feel like if the district gives them more options such as opening new programs or expanding the school location range, it could save jobs,” senior Blake Kellinger said.

The updated staff list will be published near spring break and will determine the future of some teachers in the district.

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awarding the title of Valedictorian and has switched over to the Latin Honors Society. This awards students different honor medals based on their GPAs. There are three levels to the system: First, cum laude, for students with a 3.75-3.99 GPA, who wear bronze medals with red and black ribbon.

Second, magna cum laude, for students with a 4.00-4.249 GPA, who wear silver medals with a red and black ribbon. Finally, there is summa cum laude, for students with a GPA above 4.25 wear gold medals with the red and black ribbon. This has been a recent change that has taken over for the original class ranking.

Members of Link Crew wear special medals that show their dedication to helping incoming freshmen, as well as their commitment to giving back to the high school.

Members of the Student Council can also receive either a bronze, silver, or gold medal of recognition.

Members earn “checks” for participating in council-ran events, including Homecoming, blood drives, charity, etc. Each event typically earns one check and they add up as students help with more events.

Receiving 10 checks is awarded a bronze medal, 18 checks are awarded a silver medal, and 28 checks are awarded a gold medal. Students who have taken part in the FBLA program can wear a gold stole to honor their hard work during their involvement.

A blue and gold cord is awarded to students who have earned the Quill and Scroll. This recognizes writers who have maintained a B average GPA and have done outstanding work in journalism and publications.

All of these awards are to showcase the amazing students that graduate Huntley High School and give them the appreciation they deserve.

HUNTLEYVOICE.COM 9

News National Sports

Baseball is back in town 2020 Major League Baseball season sure to be surprising, exciting

A

By Ethan Babicz As winter melts away to make way for spring, so too does it bring back baseball.

All 30 teams across the MLB are currently in either Florida or Arizona for Spring Training as they prepare for the upcoming 2020 season.

There are sure to be many surprise teams, close division races, and other important events this season. The only question is who will fill those roles.

Last year, two of the most crucial teams in the MLB were the New York Yankees and the Los Angeles Dodgers. Each of them won over 100 games in the regular season and the Yankees made it to the American League Championship Series. This year, they will only continue to get better and could possibly make it to the World Series thanks to their off-season acquisition of All-Star pitcher Gerrit Cole, who led the Houston Astros to the World Series last year in dominanting fashion.

Over in LA, the Dodgers coordinated a monster trade to bring the 2018 AL MVP Mookie Betts and former Cy Young Award-winning pitcher David Price to them.

This solidified the Dodgers’ previous starting pitching rotation and cemented an All-Star outfield with Betts alongside 2019 NL MVP Cody Bellinger and veteran A.J. Pollock.

Both teams are projected to have around 100 wins again this season and win their respective divisions, which would make them the best 10 THE VOICE MARCH 2020

Photo by Chad McMeen/Public Domain A stadium packed with baseball fans

team in each league (again).

Some of the most surprising teams last year were the red-hot Minnesota Twins, Tampa Bay Rays, and New York Yankees. The Twins had homegrown talent and veterans combined for an outstanding offense, the Rays had some of the best pitching in the league, and the Yankees overcame injury after injury and thrived with their replacements.

This year, the potentially surprising teams have some of those same qualities. The Toronto Blue Jays are one of them, as they have possibly the best farm system in the game with “a trio of young superstars: Vladimir Guerrero Jr., Cavan Biggio, and Bo Bichette, who in my opinion have the ability to make a run to the playoffs,” senior Nathan Ricketts said.

At the same time, the San Diego

Padres also have young stars such as Manny Machado and Fernando Tatis Jr., making them a team to keep an eye on as well.

Another team is the Cincinnati Reds, who definitely won free agency last season and this off-season as they acquired ace pitcher Trevor Bauer, All-Star second baseman Mike Moustakas, and veteran outfielder Nicholas Castellanos. Finally, the Chicago White Sox could possibly be a postseason contender in the AL Central with their off-season acquisitions of ace pitcher Dallas Keuchel and All-Star catcher Yasmani Grandal.

If these teams live up to their hype coming into the season, the 2020 postseason picture could be very different than it was just a year ago.

However, not everything heading

into this season can be met with joy.

During the off-season, the MLB uncovered an elaborate cheating scandal within the Houston Astros’ organization during their 2017 World Series victory. They found that the Astros had used cameras to steal the signs from opposing catchers and sent auditory cues to the batter to let them know which type of pitch was coming next.

This was met with a steep penalty from the league, as they suspended (and the team later fired) both Manager A.J. Hinch and General Manager Jeff Luhnow, fined the Astros $5 million, and they were stripped

of their first and second round picks for the 2020 and 2021 draft.

Even this, however, was not enough for some people, who wanted the Astros to be punished even further.

“Baseball is known to be hard for a reason, never knowing what the opposing pitcher is going to throw is what makes the sport what it is,” Ricketts said.

“I believe many years of draft picks should have been taken away and the title should have been stripped.”

Many players, especially from the Dodgers team that lost to them

in 2017, feel the same way Ricketts does and have shown it during Spring Training already. Seven Astros batters have been hit by pitches in the first week of Spring Training and who knows how many more will come during the regular season as tensions continue to rise.

Overall, the 2020 MLB season is set up to be full of strong, new groups, veteran powerhouse teams, and everything in between.

The next seven months of baseball should not disappoint anyone, whether they are a lifelong fan or a newcomer to the game.

Courtesy of psdcovers.com Lineup of the Major League

HUNTLEYVOICE.COM 11

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Opinion Lunch Ladies

Students subverting expectations Lunch ladies surprised by the amount of students that respect them

B

By Meghan Bentley

Behind the check-out counters and the day’s lunch menu is the kitchen where 16 people work. From opening up packages, cooking, ordering food, and more, the Food’s and Services staff do a lot for the students’ day.

Being behind closed doors for most of their shift, many presume that they go unnoticed in the busy day of a Red Raider.

However in this case, the student body subverts the community of the high school’s assumptions by going out of their way to care for them.

“We actually comment [on] how nice the kids are. There are so many kids who will tell me to have a good day before I even do [tell them to have one]. I’m amazed sometimes,” said staff leader Julie Kearns. “I didn’t expect them to acknowledge us.”

Kearns’s expectation, she would learn, was far from the truth.

“For the most part, everybody is really [nice and] says ‘good morning’ or says ‘good day.’ I’ve been here 18 years, so when my kids were here, I knew a lot of kids [and] that helped.

Now that all of my kids are graduated and I don’t have any neighbor kids, I would have thought it would have sort of stopped,” Kearns said.

With over 3000 kids in one building, even being aquitanced with just a couple hundred is a big accomplishment for a small part of HHS’s staff.

Administration, such as teachers and secretaries who see the teens every day, believed that these positions went under the radar.

N. Darnall

Even students who try to converse with them do not expect such a kind act from their peers.

“I feel like most students don’t really acknowledge them, but there are definitely a good group of students that talk to them every day,” junior Emily Trihn said.

Yet, when standing around in the cafeteria near the check-out line there is almost a constant chime of greetings. This makes the belief that the position hardly gets a glance, an unusual one.

“I’m guessing that they’re probably thinking that we are doing a lot of our job and it’s not part of [a student’s] day [unlike] teaching. I think though that the lunch is about as important to [the students’] day as a lot of stuff,” Kearns said.

Although I feel that sometimes the result in a messy cafeteria also adds to people’s guesses to how the students feel towards the Foods and Services

Meghan Bentley is a first year floating editor. Check out her book review blog on huntleyvoice.com.

staff.

“I would have to say 90% of the kids are marvelous. Then you got your few,” lunch lady Lisa Prokuski said. “There are certain tables where they will take a peanut butter and jelly sandwich and smear it across the whole table.”

When walking past the cafeteria and seeing situations like that is how students who really do care become discredited. All because a couple of their peers don’t care about following the rules to keep the cafeteria clean.

Despite the troublemakers, all of the staff maintain a smile because of how a majority of the student population is. But when they work in a select part of the building, the rest of the school’s staff doesn’t get to see the brighter side.

As the student body, it is our job to raise our voices about the pleasant experiences we share through our day, so we don’t have our basic manners not only doubted by administration, but each other. We are growing more mature by the day and subverting terrible expectations. We should not let a few poorly behaved peers get in the way of how our courtesy to authority HUNTLEYVOICE.COM 13

Opinion Clothing

The great legging debate Which leggings belong in your cart and which do not live up to the hype?

A

By Maggie Kirwin

As students trickle through the bus doors bundled in coats, one thing sticks out: bright, patterned leggings.

With the weather still fluctuating like a typical Illinois winter, long pants are the best option. However, instead of throwing on a pair of jeans and a sweater, the typical outfit for a high school girl is leggings and a long sleeve shirt or sweatshirt. Comfort is now the new normal, but it comes at a price. The popular brand of leggings is the infamous Lululemon, and, while its leggings are nice, students only want them for the clout.

With lots of brands available, not as many people are only wanting to wear Lululemon leggings. Brands like Aerie by American Eagle, Skechers, and Fabletics have become more popular because not everyone wants to drop almost $100 on leggings.

“I love Lululemon. I wear it, but now trying on different leggings, there are so many different brands now that are just as good quality as Lululemom,” said physical education and health teacher Erin Henricksen.

So, the question is: what is the best brand of leggings?

When asked what brands of leggings they wear the most, girls tended to answer Fabletics, which did not come as a surprise. Fabletics is one of the most advertised brands on

social media networks. Influencers like Remi Cruz and “The Bachelor” star Cassie Randolph get brand deals to support Fabletics.

“They’re probably one of my favorite [pairs] of leggings. I wear them constantly,” freshman Olivia Pawlak said. “They’re smooth and feel comfortable.”

Fabletics leggings cost $24 for two if you get the monthly membership.

This is a great deal for someone who only wears leggings and needs a ton of pairs. Most people choose to order their leggings on the website, but there are also stores available, such as one in Woodfield Mall in Schaumburg, Illinois.

I went to the mall to try these leggings on and to see if they truly lived up to the hype. I was the only customer in the store, and the employees swarmed me immediately.

Although the associates were nice, it felt like a customer had to buy something. When trying on the leggings, I felt they did not fit as well as other brands that I had tried and were not as true to size as I had hoped. However, fans of the brand really like how they feel.

“I like how they’re really compressed and [how] you can’t see through them,” sophomore Megan Diaz said. “There is nothing I don’t

Maggie Kirwin is a first-year staff writer. Check out her Maggie’s Magical Morsels blog on huntleyvoice.com.

14 THE VOICE MARCH 2020

like about them.”

Another popular brand for leggings is the Skechers brand from Costco.

While you need a monthly membership to get into Costco, the price and accessibility is fantastic. The leggings only cost $19.99, and the closest Costco is located in Lake in the Hills, Illinois.

The leggings have a thick band at the top, which help them stay up all day. The material is not see-through by any means. The downside is that there are no dressing rooms to try on the leggings at Costco before leaving the store. Buyers will have to play a guessing game if they have no clue what size they are in pants. However, the fit is true to size, so this was not a serious issue.

“My Costco leggings, I feel, are for being athletic,” sophomore Mallory Kindl said. “They’re very comfortable, soft, and fitting.”

Kindl also spoke highly of the Aerie by American Eagle leggings.

These leggings have pockets and are stretchy, comfortable, and targeted for working out but are good for leisure as well. Like the Fabletics leggings, they come in different colors and prints. Typically, they run on the more expensive side with their Play Pocket High Waisted Leggings costing $49.95. Aerie typically has sales, which bring their prices down to about $30.

Although they are an American Eagle brand, Aerie leggings are not typically sold at every American Eagle store. Instead, you can find a standalone store at Woodfield Mall.

While they are comfortable, the

T. Koop

band is not tight enough, so the leggings are constantly falling down.

It is very annoying to have to keep pulling them up all the time.

Finally, Lululemon. The typical price for a pair is about $99, and the closest Lululemon store is in Schaumburg. While ordering online is convenient, it is difficult to judge what size you would wear based on measurements from a website. The leggings are stretchy and comfortable but no more so than others.

“I honestly love the pair that I have, they are very comfy and well made, and I think that’s a big reason why they’re so popular,” senior Rachel

Schiltz said.

The biggest issue is the price.

Compared with other brands that are just as good, Lululemon are far too expensive. Students barely even consider buying a pair of Lululemon leggings because they cost so much.

“They’re very pricey, and there are lots of brands [that have leggings] that are exactly like them for a cheaper price,” Kindl said.

On the other hand, people who do own Lululemon leggings like how they feel and fit.

“Overall, I think they are worth the hype. I personally would not spend money on them, but I will accept

them as a gift,” Schiltz said. “Do not worry if you do not have a pair, what an individual wears should never define who they are as a person.”

Out of all the leggings I have tried, the best pair would have to be the Costco leggings. They are affordable, comfortable, and convenient. You do not need a fancy name brand of leggings; you just need to feel comfortable in them. If Lululemon is your go-to brand, then go for it, but just know there are leggings out there that are just as good, if not better, and more affordable. You should try them out.

HUNTLEYVOICE.COM 15

Opinion Graduating Early

Graduating Early: is it worth it?

Does graduating early allow students to have the full high school experience?

I

By Sara Hursey

In the spring of their junior year, students have an important decision to make. Will they choose to graduate in December and get a jump start on their future, or will they decide to stay through May and complete all eight semesters of high school?

For some, the decision is easy, while others mull over their options for months. Some students have completed all their credits and want to work to save money for college or even start taking classes at McHenry County College.

However, most students stick out the last half of their senior year, and are able to reap the benefits of doing so.

This past December, only 38 students graduated early, according to Associate Principal Danyce Letkewicz.

“There are absolute benefits to getting the full high school experience, taking as many classes as you can here, and sticking around and having that high school experience for as long as possible,” Letkewicz said.

When students graduate early, they miss out on many valuable experiences.

While students can still attend Prom and the graduation ceremony in the spring, they do not get to be a part of the celebrations that fill in the last few months of their senior year.

Additionally, they are unable to participate in any extracurricular activities, such as the sports and clubs that students have participated in for their entire high school career.

Counting down the days until graduation is a tradition that many students cannot wait to be a part of.

Senior pranks, dress up days, and ditch days can be the highlight of your year.

While these activities do not have any educational value, they do connect the graduating class together, strengthening the bond between a group that have grown up together for 13 years.

Additionally, the last semester of high 16 THE VOICE MARCH 2020

school allows students to explore other interests they have. High school classes are free, while college classes can be very costly.

Taking a variety of classes also makes you appear more well rounded, which can be beneficial to getting into college. “[Colleges] want you to check things out. They want you to have an experience,” College and Careers Counselor Laura Martens said. “You can experience an art class, a foods class, a shop class, an automotive class. You can experience these things, because they’re going to inspire you.”

At some universities, graduating early and taking too many classes at a community college will strip you of freshman scholarships.

If you enter a university with too many credits, you can be considered a transfer student.

Also, it can be better for seniors to stay through May because many colleges are looking for four years of a language and math.

HHS only requires four years of English, and seniors are able to double up their English classes, allowing them to fulfill their requirements and graduate in December.

However, students cannot take two semesters of a math or language course at the same time, because those classes build upon each other.

While graduating in May is ideal for most students, early graduation can be a very positive experience. Early graduation allows students to work and save up money for college.

For students that do not plan on higher education, they can start their careers and become more independent sooner.

T. Koop

Every situation is different though, and a great graduation plan for one student might be difficult and unhelpful for another.

If you are considering early graduation, counselor Patricia Zacharias suggests that you speak to your counselor to start formulating a plan.

Even if you are an underclassman, discussing early graduation can help personalize your high school experience and make it more tailored to you.

“The bigger message is that we want every student to do what’s best for them and make sure that they’re confident in their decisions,” Letkewicz said. “I want students getting their high school diploma, and I want to make sure that we’re supporting them in that process.”

We are lucky to attend a school that provides so many options for students to choose from. Choices like blended learning and early graduation allow us to optimize our learning and make a path through high school that suits each of us best.

While HHS has many options, the opportunities we are given in high school are limited. When seniors stay enrolled until May, they ensure that they will have a chance to experience and take advantage of all that Huntley has to offer.

Sara Hursey is a first year member on staff. Check out her In the Spotlight blog on huntleyvoice.com.

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Opinion SAT

SAT prep: does it pay off?

Does attending SAT prep courses ultimately help your score?

I

T. Koop

By Trevor Book I think it is a subject that should be tried by many students in hopes of boosting up your SAT score and having a good chance at getting into a college you want. SAT prep was a concept that first started in 1938, it was created by Stanley H. Kaplan, and it has been helping students prepare for the SATs ever since.

“In the past, 85% [of students] have done better by taking [the program] sophomore and junior year. Comparing it to real SAT scores by triangulating, comparing three scores: the PSAT for eighth grade or freshmen year, junior year, [and] the actual SAT Test [to] see if students’ scores have improved over time,” Cynthia Schnieder said. “[It] gets students used to how questions are written, eliminates answers, [and to help] students choose what they want to do in their life.”

This is what the SAT program does, prepares you for the best that you can be.

“All students are going to benefit from it because there will be questions you can eliminate from the SAT,” Schnieder said.

If students go to SAT prep, they are most likely going to be prepared for any possible question and some parents might think about the money that they will be spending.

“HHS is more affordable than some [other courses]. Private SAT places are up to $1000,” Schneider said.

A few good reasons to take SAT prep, as shown above, are to improve scores that can help you get into a nice college at a cheaper price.

Despite these reasons, there are also a few problems that students find why the prep course is unhelpful.

“It’s only once a week and a lot of the information isn’t really helping,” junior Parker Amato said.

Students taking the course only have five weeks and one PSAT. Because of the short time span of the class, students like Amato might consider not taking the class. However, you never know until you try.

“It is not going to hurt anybody to take the course and in some way help you learn how to study,” Schneider said.

The teachers are just trying to help the students get the best score they can because they are important.

“I think it is important because the SAT score is important for the future, so it is important to prepare,” Amato said.

Trevor Book is a first year staff member. Check out his Marvel Battle blog on huntleyvoice. com.

The SAT prep program is there to make sure you know what to study because if you do not study what you learned in the program, you may not be well prepared for the test.

“I would recommend [SAT prep], but also practice outside of school and manage your time outside of school,” Amato said.

Now, when I mean practice outside of school, I mean you can practice for an hour, a couple of hours, even 30 min. Then you can go and hang out with their friends. The practice is meant to help you. Now I have firsthand knowledge of the program and I know how short it is and how it is only five weeks long but I can tell you it does help.

I believe HHS has one of the best programs and it is fairly cheaper than other SAT prep programs outside of the high school. If you want to surpass your goal, I would go into the SAT prep program at HHS as soon as possible.

LET’S ROCK THIS SAT JUNIORS! HUNTLEYVOICE.COM 19

Opinion Recognition

Equality in activities and athletics What HHS can do to recognize activities on the same level as sports

W

By Kate Alvarado

With the many sports and activities that compete and receive regional or state titles, it can be hard for administration to give every group the attention they deserve. Some students involved in academic or artistic activities feel they get the short end of the stick when it comes to recognition given in school.

There are many factors involved that contribute to the situation. Typically, when students qualify for state, they walk around the school in the morning as a “send-off ” to their competition. However, this is not a requirement for any group to do.

According to Tom Kempf, associate principal and club/ activities director, there have been situations in the past where activities have denied these offers.

“There really are equal requirements and recognition options, it just seems that often the [activities don’t] take us up on it,” Kempf said.

Tom George, the teacher and sponsor of the Speech Team, sees the reluctance of his own students.

“My students in the past have been reluctant to do that,” George said. “A lot of fine arts kids, I feel, want the recognition but then don’t want to be

in the spotlight when they’re walking around the school.”

This can make it seem as though sports are given more opportunities, but in reality, the school tries to be as equal as possible. We cannot fault administration when activities decline offers given by the school.

However, this is not the problem most students have. Their feelings of inequality come from where their

around the school and in teacher’s rooms, but all of the athletic plaques are hung together on one wall.

“Having all the trophy cases, regional awards, and sectional awards separate doesn’t have as big of an impact [than] when you look at the wall and see everybody’s regional and sectionals plaques,” said Luke Bucaro, a member of Speech Team who placed fourth at state in Humourous Duet Acting with his partner Andrew Burkey. “There’s power in numbers, so it would be cool if all the clubs and activi“Everyone here, ties are together on one whole we’re all equal. wall.”

We’re all working for Seeing a single plaque on a wall will not make someone the same opportunistop in their tracks and want ties, and [we have] to admire it. But seeing a wall the same goals.” filled with plaques dating Luke Bucaro from years ago to today definitely will. To students, putting them all together on one wall seems like an easy fix regional and state plaques are being but according to Kempf, it is not that hung. simple.

In the commons area, the trophy “It’s about proximity to the associacases hold some plaques, medals, and tion. When you’re trying to advertise trophies of different activities in the the success of your athletic teams to school. However, the plaques for the the athletic fans, then you put it near Medical Academy are by the medical the athletic area,” Kempf said. “We wing and the Silver Cord plaques are don’t have an activity wing, so it’s just on a wall outside of Principal Marcus about geography and getting the most Belin’s office. Many plaques are placed exposure as possible.”

This makes sense, but who says things cannot change?

Students argue that the athletic wing Kate Alvarado is a first-year writshares space with the fine arts wing. er and floating editor. Check out “It’s ironic because the gym [is] her Kickin’ It Back With Kate blog there but it’s attached to the wall that on huntleyvoice.com. the performing arts center is on. Right

[ ]

20 THE VOICE MARCH 2020

N. Darnall

outside of the PAC, the lobby of it, can be a clear [place] to put it,” Bucaro said.

To students, it is not always about where the plaques are, but rather what kind of message it sends. How are students supposed to feel knowing that athletes belong on a Wall of Fame and kids interested in academics and art belong somewhere else?

“There are no bad vibes between the club people and the sportspeople,” Bucaro said. “Everyone here, we’re all equal. We’re all working for the same opportunities, and [we have] the same goals. Everyone works their butts off for everything, so if everyone works their butts off [we should] have equal representation.”

Athletic Director Glen Wilson sees the Wall of Fame as a way to track the history of athletics and celebrate their accomplishments.

“Perhaps [this is] something to consider for other areas such as

academics and activities, because, at least in our world, it’s been something that is very prideful for the family of a student to achieve that,” Wilson said.

However, it is important to realize that responsibility lies in the students and advisors as well.

“One of the things that I encourage coaches, club, activity, and academic sponsors, [to do] is to get that information shared with us so that we can [get] it out. I do a lot of posting and sharing on social media, but I share what I get,” Belin said.

It does not matter how many posts he makes about a specific event.

Ultimately, it is up to students to show up and cheer on their classmates. We need to care in order to show others that they should care as well.

“It’s going, supporting, and talking about them just as much as we do sports. I’m only one person,” Belin said. “We need to continue having that conversation and talking about

supporting what’s going on in classrooms, activities, and sports both academic and athletic.”

After all of this, one thing is clear.

This is something that can be changed if students want it enough. This is the first step to letting administration know what we want, but we need to keep pushing for it.

“I am not opposed to finding other places for them. We just haven’t gotten to that point yet, [but] it’s been talked about. The thoughts and ideas are there, it’s just a matter of going through some of the planning and figuring out how we execute that,” Belin said.

At the end of the day, students appreciate everything administration does for them, and administration sees their hard work and wants to recognize them as deserved. It is just a matter of communication.

HUNTLEYVOICE.COM 21

Feature Clubs

Student finds JOY in leading club Sophomore Emily Heflin runs Christian club focused on practicing faith

By Emma Gribbens

A

Heflin meets with other students in JOY club.

As sophomore Emily Heflin walked into Huntley High School ready to take on the new club, she felt excited. Heflin recently took on the role of leading the JOY club.

Most people do not know a lot about this club, but Heflin hopefully will get more participants as the leader.

The JOY club has a specific meaning relating to what this club does.

“JOY club is a Christian club,” Heflin said. “JOY actually stands for Jesus Others and You. [We] meet every week [and] usually have a passage from the Bible that we read out of. We’ll read it together, followed by a discussion and questions.”

During the club they do a bunch of different activities with the Bible.

“I didn’t start it, but I did take it 22 THE VOICE MARCH 2020

up this year,” Heflin said. “A family friend used to run it, but a while before we were in high school someone started it.”

Through her determination, she was able to restart the club. Heflin was able to take on this role and help lead.

“It’s mostly run by me. I make up all of the stuff we do and the lessons and all that,” Heflin said.

“Mrs. Runck is the teacher sponsor.

She’s super great. She is an amazing teacher and amazing at helping the club.”

While Heflin mostly runs the club, she is grateful for the assistance from teacher Joni Runck. Her main goal this year is to spread the word and increase membership.

I make sure to keep a safe space for the students of the Christian faith to connect, learn more about their faith and work to make a positive impact on the school,” Runck said.

“We don’t have a ton of members right now, but I’m hoping to expand and get more people interested in it,” Heflin said.

S. Laput She hopes to expand throughout her time of running this club by helping make JOY club more well-known throughout HHS. “Everyone that comes to JOY is super great, and everyone’s super nice and supportive,” Heflin said. “It’s just a great place to be.”

JOY is a positive club to go to and a way to get together and discuss.

The club helps give members a productive mindset.

Heflin plans on improving the club and recruiting new members by putting posters up and making announcements around the school.

Heflin, over time, hopes the club becomes increasingly more popular.

Her goal for this club is to help improve the structure, gain members, and share with students how this club is a forward-looking place.

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Features Music

A future career in choir Melissa Bala does not only have strong vocal cords, but a pure heart

F

By Kimberlynn Bjurstrom

Four periods of the school day, beautiful notes are expelled from Senior Melissa Bala’s vocal cords. She is the only student who is in every choir that she could join at Huntley High, and she could not be happier with her decisions. Not only does she sing all day in school, but she also sings in choirs outside of school.

“This year I am in Treble Choir, Bel Canto Choir, Master Singers, and Buddies Choir. Then, outside of school I am in Encore Youth Choir and I am also in my church’s youth band,” Bala said.

It is rare to find a passion so early in life and be able to implement it so thoroughly, but Melissa has done exactly that. Her sophomore year was when she discovered just how much she enjoyed singing. Now in her senior year

doing what she enjoys. Yet, though she will be going to school to be a teacher, Melissa Bala is not going to teach choir.

“I’m going to college to become a special education teacher, but because music has played such an important role and because of the Buddies Choir that we have here, I’ve been influenced and impacted enough where I actually want to try and get my minor in music so that I can bring music into my classroom,” Bala said.

Along with in all of her choirs and the musicals, she is also the president of the Best Buddies Club. She helped choir teacher Alexandria Bieber found the Buddies Choir, new to Huntley this year, and has been pivotal in integrating the Buddies into both choir and the musicals. She is a born leader, she has used that skill to help others, and she will continue to do so for the rest of her life.

“I think of Melissa as a teacher. She is very mature and she leads her students and I look up to Melissa in a lot of different ways because she has a lot of admirable qualities,” Bieber said.

Melissa is an inspiration for all those she encounters, not she has ensured that, with the stresses only for her leadership qualities, but that the last year of high school brings, for what she has endured and how she she can spend the majority of the day continues to live her life by putting

[ ] “I actually want to try and get my minor in music so that I can bring music into my classroom,” Melissa Bala

24 THE VOICE MARCH 2020

others first.

Her whole life, she has dealt with medical problems surrounding her wrist. She has had several surgeries, the latest being just this last winter break, which she had to fit into her schedule around finals.

Considering her circumstances, her generosity and love for others is even more admirable. She makes an effort to help each and every person she encounters, putting them before herself and, by doing so, representing a truly altruistic lifestyle.

“If anything is kind of slipping through the cracks, she is the kind of person that notices and takes it upon herself to fix it,” Bieber said.

She treats everyone as an equal, as a friend, and she will help anyone and everyone, no matter the situation they are in. She is also extremely supportive, willing to go out of her way to cheer someone on or making a point to go see a friend in a show they’re performing in.

Melissa redefines what it means to be a good and strong person. She has overcome problems life has thrown at her while still undertaking the problems of others. In just her 18 years, she has accomplished so much and she has a whole life of helping and leading others in front of her.

“Once I started getting really involved with Buddies here I fully knew that was my passion. It just makes me so happy and I am just so excited to see what the future holds with that aspect of my life,” Bala said.

K. Ambrogio

HUNTLEYVOICE.COM 25

Humans of Huntley

“High school has impacted me in a good way. It has helped me understand who I am and what people I want to associate myself with. Playing sports has helped me get used to new people. I had to overcome new challenges, like dealing with coaches and adults.�

- Tommy Giese interviewed by molly baker | photographed by sydney laput 26 THE VOICE March 2020

“As long as you stick with the right crowd you get to meet a lot of amazing people. You can make connections like that.”

- Stephanie Garcia

photographed by sydney laput | interviewed by sarahi barcenas HUNTLEYVOICE.COM 27

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Feature Educator

More than a teacher to students Melanie Lyons inspires students beyond her Chemistry class

P

By Taylor Calame

Protons, neutrons, electrons, and other elements make up a wonderful classroom. A classroom full of love, positive attitudes, and enjoyment.

Melanie Lyons has been teaching Chemistry at Huntley High School for 11 years. She enjoys her teaching environment every day and inspires her kids to always do their best.

When Lyons was younger, she had an interest in science and knew she wanted to pursue a career involving it. Before teaching at Huntley High School and after she got her degree in Chemistry, she worked in a lab with a strict study in Chemistry.

“I found myself being the person who would learn new technology, learn new equipment, and teach it to my group of peers,” Lyons said.

After her realization of her always teaching and leading the lab group to success, she knew she wanted to be a Chemistry teacher.

Lyons is an extroverted and a very positive person and enjoys interactions with people so she decided working in the lab was not the best fit for her.

“Teaching is what I really enjoy,” Lyons said.

Not only is Lyons a Chemistry teacher, as she is also an NHS sponsor, part of the school improvement team, and school safety committee.

Being involved in extra activities has allowed Lyons to devote her time and energy as well as helping the programs grow.

Although Lyons has many memories loving every class and all her students, her favorite memory was from her fourth hour class of 2018-2019.

“My fourth hour class had a great

S. Laput Melanie Lyons teaches her chemistry class

personality and worked together like every teacher would want for their class,” Lyons said.

Outside her classroom, she enjoys traveling the world with her husband and spending precious time with her eight grandchildren.

Lyons and her husband always look forward to their annual trip to Hawaii while spending quality time together.

Lyons is a wonderful teacher and a great person to have in the Huntley community. She has inspired many students to always do their best, go outside their comfort zones, and express who they are.

“I am very passionate about teaching. It is not always about the content as I am passionate about connecting with students in such a way that they learn about life, and that’s even more important than Chemistry,” Lyons said.

In Lyons’ classroom, there is never a dull moment. Besides science, she presents positive lessons that will live with each student for the rest of their life.

“When they leave Huntley High

School they may not pursue a career in science at all, so I hope in my class they take away some things such as having positive relationships, how to talk to peers, and how to collaborate, and present developing life skills in the classroom,” Lyons said.

Lyons’ love for students continues to grow every day. After high school, she enjoys keeping in touch with her students on social media.

“I love keeping track of their college, military, work experiences, marriages or births of their children.

I have been known to give a little advice every once in a while, too,” Lyons said.

It is great to have a teacher as a friend outside of school for guidance, conversation, and memories. Lyons has several relationships with her past students and loves hearing from them.

“Once you have been my student you will always be my student and maybe a friend. In everything I do in life, I try to be a role model by being supportive and involved,” Lyons said.

HUNTLEYVOICE.COM 29

Features Persistance

Mr. HHS disproves stereotypes Senior Blake Kellinger is the first Mr.HHS with sensory disorder

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By Ashley Reilly

As the stage lights illuminated his face, beads of sweat dripped across his brow. It was time for the talent portion of the Mr.HHS competition. He had prepared an interactive comedy bit that included a self-made video. The crowd went wild, reacting to every joke and even collectively “awh”ing during the dramatic part.

Everyone in the room had their eyes on the stage.

On Feb. 6, the Performing Arts Center at Huntley High School was filled with family and friends attending the Mr.HHS pageant. Almost everyone in the room had the same experience, a night full of laughter and entertainment, but for senior Blake Kellinger, the night will be remembered forever.

“It was so cool. The audience at Mr.HHS was fantastic,” Kellinger said.

“When they interacted with my talent I felt proud, I’m so happy that people got into it because it shows who I am.”

Kellinger went home that night with a new title, Mr.HHS 2020. The win, for anyone, is a big accomplishment but for Kellinger the win meant much more.

Since the day he was born, Kellinger has fought a sensory processing disorder where he suffers from attacks due to sensory overload.

Since Blake was three weeks old his mother, Cory Kellinger, and father, Jason Kellinger, knew their child was

struggling. As an infant Blake had trouble sleeping, later they would find out this was due to Blakes disorder but at the moment all they knew was something wasn’t right.

Their little boy was social, quietly curious, and unique. Cory recalls one story as one of Blake’s more defining moments. When he was a child, he was a rule follower. If you told him to stop, he did, but he also wanted to know why.

“You would tell him don’t crawl through the window, and he would go ‘ok,’” Cory said. “Months would

on happy times. This adorable, and seemingly normal little boy, was fighting a battle not many knew about.

When Blake was around 14 months old he suddenly stopped speaking.

“He was diagnosed with Autism, and then we had him re-diagnosed because the main characteristic of Autism is a lack of social skills,” Cory said. “Clearly, he doesn’t have any social issues, it was just the processing piece of it.”

Knowing that the diagnosis was incorrect, they kept searching for the right answers. Blake was brought to a doctor that was leading research in sensory disorders, it was then that “When they interacted he was correctly with my talent I felt proud, diagnosed.

Every day our I’m so happy that peobrains intake and ple got into it because it process what we see, smell, feel, shows who I am.” hear, and taste.

The majority of us are born knowing how to do this, but with Blake’s condition his brain did not know how go by and he would see something to process any of these. that would interest him and he “I can get overwhelmed sometimes wouldn’t ask me why can’t he do it, a little faster than others. I get really he would just do it. But he didn’t do stressed out, my mind’s rushing and I it out of defiance, but out of curiosfeel a massive amount of guilt,” Blake ity.” said. “I remember as a little kid it was Like all parents, Cory and Jason really bad, talking was tough. I’m an have thousands of memories of their outgoing guy, even when I was little, blue-eyed little boy, from little laughs but it was hard to fit in. People made to big stories they can always reflect fun of me, I was definitely bullied for

[ ]

30 THE VOICE March 2020

Blake Kellinger

it.”

This disorder brought challenges into Blake’s life that not many other children face. From having to learn to control his sensory meltdowns to facing discrimination and bullying for his uncontrollable disorder Blake was pushing through a tough battle.

Blake moved into Lake in the Hills in 2013 in pursuit of a great an amazing school district and a supportive community, and he found both.

“I didn’t feel like I was alone. I didn’t feel separated from others, I felt normal,” Blake said. “Sure I still go through struggles today but we have been through so much to help keep my sensory down.”

Throughout the years of fighting his disorder, Blake has found multiple ways to help control his symptoms.

He uses aromatherapy with essential oil diffusers, using scents that create a relaxing atmosphere to help calm his senses. Also, to help with his sleeping, Blake takes melatonin every night to ensure he can fall, and stay, asleep. When Blake has an especially hard day he takes a dissolving supplement that helps to fully relax his body.

“My mom always says ‘Sensory doesn’t control you, you control the sensory.’ It may be tough at times because of obstacles, but you just got to learn where you are and keep being strong. It’s never easy,” Blake said.

Despite all of the negatives that come with the disorder, there is one positive that Blake has found: he can easily connect to anyone fighting a disability alongside him. Whether it is someone with a more severe or less severe disability, Blake has always found a community within those fighting a similar battle.

“I know what it feels like, maybe not as much as other kids do, but I know what it feels like and sometimes I know how to help,” Blake said.

S. Laput

With Blake’s original diagnosis his parents were told all the things Blake would never do, from never speaking to never holding a job their heads were filled with fears.

“I’m a pretty driven person myself so when they told me he can’t do something, I said to watch him,” Cory said.

And prove them wrong he did.

Blake has become a vital piece of multiple programs here at Huntley High School. Not only does Blake hold the title of Mr. HHS 2020, but he also is a Link Crew Commissioner, A member of Raider Nation News,

a member of Leadership Greater McHenry County, and a friend to all.

Despite the diagnosis, meltdowns, bullies, disbelievers, and constant challengers Blake has preserved. His heart is made of gold, his smile lights up a room. There is no one quite as personable and lovable as Blake Kellinger.

“I want to be the face of those who have mental and physical struggles, it’s not an easy ride. We all have stories to tell,” Blake said. “We shouldn’t be held back from doing anything or being a part of these programs. I’m grateful to be where I am despite all the challenges.”

HUNTLEYVOICE.COM 31

Features Immigrant

Sacrificing for new opportunities Lucas Silva Favorito leaves everything behind for a better future

H

By Olivia Mack

He is overcome with warmth as the radiating sun hits his naturally tanned skin. The salty breeze of the ocean engulfs him as he overlooks the rivers and the conspicuously made Japanese buildings. Plantations scattered around and the mountains are so tall and steep that the peaks seem to reach the clouds.

This is Mogi das Cruzes in the state of São Paulo, within the diverse country of Brazil.

Lucas Silva Favorito, a 19-year-old Huntley High School senior, moved to the US to live with his father and step-mother when he was 16 years old.

“We packed up and went to the US. It was hard. I had to leave my whole family,” Favorito said.

At first, his family went to live in Michigan. That had lasted for a total of four months.

Soon after, his family packed up and moved to Illinois.

Favorito would attend classes at Crystal Lake South in the mornings, then Crystal Lake Central in the evenings.

When he moved here he only knew how to say a few things in English. His first language is Portuguese, he had to use a computer to translate what he wanted to say.

“When I was a kid I used to dream about moving to the US,” Favorito said.

When Favorito moved here, he had to face plenty of hardships. Leaving his 11-year-old sister and mother was the hardest.

He was saddened at the fact that he had to leave, and it took a toll on the entire family. Favorito gets to video chat with them twice a week and only gets to see them once or twice a year back in Brazil.

However, moving here gave him better opportunities and a safer place to live. Favorito recalls some memories of dangerous occurrences back home.

“Back in Brazil, people get robbed in the streets almost every day. We don’t have rules for not bringing guns in school, and sometimes people would bring guns in. It’s dangerous,” Favorito said.

Although Favorito faced these hardships that most teenagers do not have to worry about, he was able to continue doing what he loves: Art. He has been creating art for as long as he

[ ] “When I was a kid, I used to dream about movin to the US.” Lucas Silva Favorito

32 THE VOICE MARCH 2020

can remember and is learning to educate himself. Back home he took time studying graffiti. It was something he was able to do with friends.

“I did graffiti for 8 months. I saw this one kid on YouTube doing graffiti and then I wanted to try it,” Favorito said. “Some of my friends were doing a project with graffiti and I started drawing at home. They saw them and

thought that they were cool. Then we made my drawings into that project, then transferred it onto the wall.”

This love for art has grown since he has come to the US. He started practicing tattooing, something he hopes to do after he graduates from HHS. Favorito has taken multiple art classes here and in his past schools. He uses all different mediums for his work.

Another passion of his has been Jiu-Jitsu, which is a form of martial arts that he did back in Brazil. That is what made Favorito want to try wrestling when he moved here.

Not only does he have all of these strong passions, he loves to learn. He maintains a high grade point average and has developed a close relationship with quite a few of his teachers. Favorito enjoys English and Woodworking and has gotten close to Kinsey Wright, his English teacher.

“Lucas is a wonderful addition to our classroom. He has a great sense of humor, works well with other students, and is extremely polite,” Wright said.

Wright is the teacher for students who have English as a Second Language and has watched Favorito grow in the classroom and make plenty of friends.

Overall, moving to the U.S. was hard for him, but staying here has allowed him to flourish. It gave him the ability to find his true passion and do what he loves.

“His artwork is amazing and I know that whenever he begins tattooing, it won’t be long before he owns his own shop,” Wright said. “He is going to go super far in life with the talent, skills, and personality that he has.”

S. Laput

HUNTLEYVOICE.COM 33

A&E Horror

Deep into that darkness peering...

Classic Poe adaptations good for a bit of midnight fun

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By Braden Turk

Once upon a midnight dreary, expert independent filmmaker Roger Corman and celebrated actor Vincent Price made “The Fall of the House of Usher,” based on the Edgar Allan Poe story of the same name. Over the next few years, the two would reunite for six more Poe adaptations, in the process creating one of the most lasting series in all of American horror cinema.

“House of Usher” lays the foundation for the rest of the series, featuring a delightful Price performance, colorful widescreen cinematography, and a mansion that, without fail, will burn down during the finale.

It starts with the young Philip Winthrop arriving at the Usher estate, a decrepit house whose backyard consists of swampland and dead trees. He has come with the intention of visiting his fiancée Madeline Usher, but his brother-in-law, Roderick (Price), is steadfast in his belief that the “cursed” Usher bloodline should be discontinued, permanently.

The first in the cycle holds up as one of the best. Its twists never let up, something the later films could take a cue from, and is solely responsible for the seven-movie cycle audiences have today.

After the success of “Usher,” American International Pictures commissioned Corman to direct another Poe adaptation.

If you go into “The Pit and the Pendulum” expecting anything remotely like the story it is based on, prepare to be disappointed. The only relation it has to the tale is the torture 34 THE VOICE MARCH 2020

device, otherwise the “man visits his brotherin-law’s castle in order to uncover the cause of his sister’s sudden death” plot is completely original. Despite feeling like a rehash of “Usher” at parts, it makes for a good follow-up.

Next is “Tales of Terror,” a criminally underrated anthology that adapts three Poe stories: “Morella,” “The Black Cat” (though it’s mostly just “The Cask of Amontillado”), and “The Poster for “The Raven” / Public Domain Facts in the Case of M. Valdemar.”

“Morella” plays it straight. Reuswalls. Look out for a truly bizarre ing locations (and footage!) from dream sequence, in which the screen Corman’s previous films, it’s pure is stretched so much Lorre looks like a Poe, with no shortage of revenge or deformed bowling ball. despair. The frame is stuffed full of “M. Valdemar” brings the viewer cobwebs, corpses, and candlelight, back down to Earth -- or would it making the perfect gothic setting for be more appropriate to say the spirit a dark romanticism story that tells of realm? The benevolent Valdemar a dead woman’s revenge against her (Price) is on his deathbed, his only daughter. wish to fulfill his promise to the man In “The Black Cat,” Lorre plays who helped relieve his chronic pain.

Montresor Herringbone, an alcoholThat man is the slithery psychic Caric bastard who pesters his wife for michael, whose final experiment on drinking money without an ounce of Valdemar leaves him wading between shame. Capitalizing on a chance for the overworld and afterlife. The segfree alcohol, he challenges the slightly ment is split into two parts: the deal pompous, very flamboyant Fortunaand the experiment. The climactic to Luchresi (Price) to a wine tasting scene is too silly to be taken seriously battle. It ends in a draw and the two (a “decaying” corpse appears to have become friends -- until Luchresi cuck- peanut butter smeared on its face) but olds Herringbone, who promptly seals is great nonetheless. him and his wife within his basement If “The Pit and the Pendulum” had

little in common with the Poe story, then “The Raven” bears no resemblance to its “source material” whatsoever! Like the poem, it begins with a man (Price) mulling over the death of his beloved Lenore when he is interrupted by the appearance of a raven, but the similarities pretty much stop after the bird starts talking. That raven is Adolphus Bedlo, a wizard who has come to ask Price, the master sorcerer Erasmus Craven, to revert him back to his original body. After some potion-making shenanigans, they set out with Craven’s daughter and Bedlo’s son (a young Jack Nicholson) to confront the evil wizard Scarabus.

Thus begins the farce “The Raven.”

The movie is surprisingly very funny, thanks to the delightful performances

by Price, Peter Lorre, and Boris Karloff. (Lorre apparently ad-libbed some of his lines, including this exchange between him and Price: “Shall I ever see the rare and radiant Lenore again?

How the hell should I know!”) Just don’t expect to be scared: for something marketed as a “horror comedy,” “The Raven” is much more reliant on the latter. It’s not a classic by any means, but is admirable in its own right.

The modest Charles Dexter Ward and his wife Ann arrive at the village of Arkham to claim the estate of Ward’s great-great-grandfather Joseph Curwen, a warlock burned at the stake many years ago. Ward is possessed by his ancestor’s vengeful spirit in

no time, who is eager to continue his demonic experiments.

If that doesn’t sound like it is from a Poe story, it’s because it isn’t: “The Haunted Palace” is actually based on H.P. Lovecraft’s “The Case of Charles Dexter Ward.” The producers got cold feet being the first to adapt a Lovecraft tale and, aware of the success of the recent Poe adaptations, changed the title to play it safe. (The real “The Haunted Palace” is a short poem that was later inserted into Poe’s “The Fall of the House of Usher.” The only connection it has with this movie are a few quotations thrown in throughout.)

Nevertheless, the resulting picture is one of the spookiest in the cycle.

Price’s performance is as entertaining as usual (this time, he’s tasked with playing two characters), and horror veteran Lon Chaney Jr. leaves an impression on the viewer as well. “The Haunted Palace” is further aided by a score by Ronald Stein, whose pieces provide a dramatic backdrop to the action.

“The Masque of the Red Death” went back to a Poe story, but Corman once again decided to change things up by filming on location in England.

It follows the Satanist Prince Prospero (Price), who locks himself and his noble friends in his castle as the Red Death ravages medieval Italy outside.

But, as Poe knows all too well, death does not discriminate.

In contrast to the other movies in

the cycle, Price plays the villain, which has its ups and downs. On one hand, he’s clearly having fun, hamming Prospero’s character up so much you can practically smell cooked pork emanating from the screen. On the other, Price is too likable to pull off the “evil prince” persona. Putting that aside, “Red Death” succeeds as a horror film, and the change of scenery gives the cycle a much-needed revitalization.

Like “The Masque of the Red Death,” 1964’s “The Tomb of Ligeia” was also shot in England. It follows the widower Verden Fell (Price, in a usual tortured performance) and his doomed marriage to the young Rowena, who looks unnaturally like his first wife, Ligeia, an atheist who ominously said she would never leave Fell’s side, even after death.

After a classic Poe series of twists and turns, Rowena and her suitor, Gough, flee the abbey and leave Fell by himself. The film ends with Fell, now completely frenetic, attacking the feline reincarnation of his first wife.

She leaps onto his face and blinds him, causing him to knock over a veil, which ignites and begins to engulf the room in flames. How fitting it is for the cycle to end like this: Price stumbling around in the dark, his estate burning down around him, while the younger generation rides off to start anew.

As the raven would say -- “Nevermore.”

Detail from “Usher” poster / Public Domain

HUNTLEYVOICE.COM 35

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36 THE VOICE MARCH 2020

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A&E Thriller

He is standing right behind you Thriller movie, “The Invisible Man” hits you where you can not see it

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By Veronica Castillo

Breathing lightly as she crept through the house, Cecelia gathered her belongings and frantically fled from her abuser’s home. Sprinting through the woods, feeling the cold night air on her skin, she escapes with her sister and believes she will finally be free. Only too late does she realize that her former lover would never leave her, he would never stray from her side.

“The Invisible Man ‘’ Directed by Leigh Whannell, who is also known for his work in “Saw”, premiered Friday, February 28. This movie follows a long line of entertainment surrounded around the idea of an invisible figure which was originally brought to life by H.G Wells.

Published in 1897, Wells wrote of the life and death of scientist Dr. Jack Griffin. In Griffin’s field he found a way to make himself invisible but in doing so, he went mad and began to use his abilities to commit heinous crimes until he was eventually hunted down and killed.

The first movie based on the novel came about in 1933 and was titled “The invisible man”. This movie closely followed the plot of the original book but some time after, in the early 2000s a two season television series based on the concept of an invisible man was released. Now it seemed, Universal Pictures was ready to give “The Invisible Man” another shot.

Many of Whannell’s previous movies have greatly focused on the physiological aspect of fear, and he continues to use these talents in the new 2020 film.

Cecilia Kass, played by Elisabet Moss, finds herself trapped and manipulated by her boyfriend, a brilliant and rich scientist. Shortly after leaving her abuser, Adrian Griffin, and mov-

Courtesy of theinvisiblemanmovie.com

ing in with her childhood friend, she finds that Griffin has killed himself.

In his death, Cecilia has inherited a large sum of money. Cecilia begins to believe that Adrian has finally left her life and she can begin to move on happily.

Although the movie is categorized as horror, it appears to be more of a thriller. It’s easy to feel tense when you have no way to know if the antagonist is really there or not. When subtle hits of prescience “the invisible man’s” presence are given, you may find yourself wanting to yell at the screen, telling Cecilia to turn around.

At points when you slowly see the characters struggle and contemplate their sanity under the fear of an invisible feeling, it’s clear why Whannell is known for his attacks on the human mind.

While the movie keeps you tense, action scenes are done especially well.

The concepts of how rain and objects interact with something that is invisible, are interesting to see on screen.

Despite the interesting acting scenes, there are moments when the fighting seems almost funny. Having no

comparison from what a real invisible person is like, seeing someone fight with something that is not really there appears comical.

In the end, just when you think all is resolved and the villain has been vanquished, the situation is not what you think it to be. Cecilia is able to break free in a questionable way and takes advantage of all she has endured.

“I enjoyed the movie, It was a unique take on the psychology of sociopaths and narcissists in respect to how they pursue their victims but It didn’t feel like a horror movie, more like a thriller” sophomore Zachary Adams said.

While mostly predictable, the movie utilizes the chillying and damaging relationship of the obsession between an abuser and their victim. A large number of modern and even futuristic ideas play into the movie in an interesting way and the moments of suspense leave you gripping in anticipation.

Next time you look at that dark figure in your bedroom at night, you’ll think twice about dismissing it.

HUNTLEYVOICE.COM 37

A&E Television

New series is more than ‘okay’ Sophia Lillis and Wyatt Oleff star again in high school thriller

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By Emmy Cohen “I Am Not Okay with This” came out on Feb. 26, and by Friday it was number three on the U.S. watch list on Netflix. It is said to be similar to “The Breakfast Club” which is certainly true. Based on the the book and TV show “End of The F***ing World,” which came

out in October of 2017, “I Am Not Okay with This” stars Sophia Lillis as Sydney Novak.

Sydney recently lost her father and is struggling to deal with her emotions. She also does not have many things she loves to do. She has always moved around the

The Netflix original series came out on Feb. 26

Courtesy of Netflix

38 THE VOICE MARCH 2020

country and is still in the town where her father died, Brownsville.

He killed himself and never left a note which baffles Sydney.

Sydney’s best friend is Dina, played by Sofia Bryant. Sydney had moved around so much and finally found a best friend who was there for her when her dad died. She also becomes friends with neighbor Stanley Barber, played by Wyatt Oleff, who allows her to be herself after dealing with stress from all areas of her life.

Her younger brother Liam, played by Aidan Wojtak-Hissong, shares her agony and pain from the loss of their father.

At first Sydney is not easily relatable to the audience and seems to hate the world, but later on she starts to open up. After being given a diary by her counselor, she starts to explore her past, which explains plot details that give a better understanding of her situation.

Sydney is shown to be a bad daughter but a good friend and sister. She has her own internal battles going on that affect the people around her.

Sophia Lillis is usually in horror films so before the show was out it was expected to be a bit of a horror TV show. One thrilling element is that Sydney suspects she has superpowers but knows she has them after trying them out.

This show has a realistic view of

Courtesy of Netflix Characters Dina, Stanley, and Sydney hang out during school

high school and is different from most Netflix films about high school life, as Sydney deals with bullies but sticks up for herself.

There is cheating, lying, hate, greed, love, romance, jealousy, and sadness throughout every episode, and Sydney is doing her best to manage it all.

Sydney has a new perspective on high school because she is trying to figure out her sexual identity as well as her personal identity because she has uncontrollable superpowers. Her diary is used to

narrate her emotions and feelings throughout the eight episodes.

There were a couple of episodes where nothing exciting really happened, and the plot was a little bit repetitive, but usually there was something different happening in every episode that changed her life in a whole new way.

There were moments where the acting made me cringe. The mother of Sydney would give advice in a tone that was not natural and threw me off because I was enjoying the scene. However, consider-

ing finding TV shows and movies on Netflix that are new and not cringeworthy can be hard, I was grateful that there were not many bad acting moments.

If you like “The Breakfast Club,�

I recommend this show because of the similar characters, atmosphere, and setting.

If you like to laugh while having your mouth drop to the floor, this is a good show for you with surprises around every corner, or episode.

HUNTLEYVOICE.COM 39

A&E Gaming

Jackbox: A family friendly game Online game brings humor into house holds and smiles on faces

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By Nikki Darnall Everyone experiences it. The For example, Lie Swatter is a basic excruciating boredom when the trivia game; not many interesting party you are at starts to die down. twists to it. Then in Word Spud, After trying card games, Twister, you are creating compound words. and even spin the bottle, it is still There is nothing really exciting or not enough. What is there left to captivating in the first pack. do? The solution is simple: Jackbox! However, I do think that it is Jackbox is a series of digital party beneficial to play some of these first games that will aid your gnawing ‘basic’ games to get you to underneed for some good laughs. stand Jackbox more. Since they are Jackbox is played by having evso simple, it is easy to get to uneryone gather around the television derstand how things work, what to and grab whatever smartphone or tablet they prefer.

“I love this game in Using those devices they go to general because of “Jackbox.tv” on the wacky questions Google and enter that you get, and how the 4-digit-code displayed on the stunned you are when TV. Once you you get a far off anenter your name that means your swer.” phone or tablet Max Deutschle is synced up with the game.

Jackbox’s career took off with their first-ever trivexpect, and what the in and outs of ia game, “You Don’t Know Jack.”

Jackbox are.

From then on, they have created a In the second party pack things total of 30 games. In addition, they start to get more interesting with have bundles of games called party games like Quiplash XL and Earpacks. Each party pack consists of 5 wax. Quiplash is a game where different games that are guaranteed the player has a prompt or someto keep you entertained. thing to write about and competes In the first party pack, there are with someone else with the same not too many interesting games. prompt. The other player is a judge They all have different motives, but who picks the better answer. You they seem to be a bit bland. are awarded points for how many

people vote for you. It has to be my favorite game because it has many opportunities to be funny.

When I judge these Jackbox games, a big thing I look at is how many laughs you get out of it. No one wants a plain jane type of game. This is why I like Quiplash because it gives you an opportunity to crack jokes or make a sarcastic comment.

On the flip side of the extreme humor in Quiplash, things can get inappropriate quickly for younger kids or sensitive ears. To help with this, there is a family-friendly age filter in the settings so you can adjust the appropriate content for each group of people.

Earwax is also very entertaining because the point of the game is to mimic an event with the sounds given to you. These sounds range from explosions, farts, toilets flushing, creaking doors, and screaming. The goofy noises can make this game so funny you will be rolling around on the floor crying.

The third party pack is my absolute favorite because it includes Quiplash 2, Trivia Murder Party, Guesspionage, and Fakin’ It. Trivia Murder Party is a great twist on a trivia game for anyone who is into scary things. I personally am not, so some of the random

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40 THE VOICE MARCH 2020

Courtesty of Officail Jackbox Website

screams and creepy vibe make me a little uneasy. But overall, the point of the game is clear and is also enjoyable for people who do not like scary things.

Guesspionage is a unique game that Jackbox has to offer. Even though I am terrible at it, I will never pass up an opportunity to play.

Guesspoinage is set looking through securities cameras in a mall, as if you are part of the CIA. You are given a question and you have to guess the percentage of people you think would do that.

The closer to the actual percent the more points you get.

For example, “What percent of adults have played truth or dare for the first time after turning 30?” I love this game in general because of the wacky questions that you get, and how stunned you are when you get a far off answer.

Fakin’ It is the best game to play if

you are a good detective. The game is played so that all players except one, the faker, are given particular instructions and the faker has to blend in without knowing the question. Sometimes it takes until the end of the game to figure out who the faker is, and other times the faker is terrible at lying or covering up their tracks.

The fourth and fifth party pack does not really have that many interesting or new games besides Monster Seeking Monster, which is a dating or match type game where your motive is to find your perfect ‘match’.

If you compare The Jackbox Party Pack 1 with the newest, Jackbox Party Pack 6, you will see only slight differences.

Role Models, a very interesting game, is played where you have to judge people and place them in their own cliques or groups based on certain categories. I would sug-

gest playing this game with people you know a lot about.

Dictionarium is very fun and unique in that you are creating your own entries in a dictionary. The game has three voting rounds in which you make up funny words, define them, then use them in a sentence. Overall, it is a very fun and creative game.

In a nutshell, Jackbox is a great way to entertain friends and family and get a lot of laughs. There are a large variety of games, and packs to choose from. Although some games are repetitive, the overall content and memories of when you play are worth it.

Jackbox is a widely avalible game on your game consel’s app store.

It can be played on XBox, PlayStation, Nintendo Switch, PC, and much more. Every gamer can enjoy the fun that is Jackbox.

Look out for Jackbox Party Pack 7 coming out later in 2020!

HUNTLEYVOICE.COM 41

Sports Determination

Hill maintains passion for soccer Maddie Hill dedicates all four years of high school to the soccer team

By Taylor Koop

K. Ambrogio

The crowd hoots and hollers as a goal is scored. All the players on the field run to each other to hug in a huddle. The energy of the players radiates off of each other ready to start playing again.

Maddie Hill, a senior at Huntley High School, has been on the Varsity soccer team since she was a freshman. Soccer has been one of her true passions for the past fourteen years and counting.

She started playing when she was 4-years-old on a recreational team at the Huntley Park District. After a couple of years into the sport, she transitioned to a club travel team, Heat United, when she was 6. She actually started playing on an 8 years old team rather than her own age group.

She plays soccer all year long starting with her club team at the beginning of summer up until the 42 THE VOICE MARCH 2020

beginning of March. She then has that we’re all working really hard to turn around and play for Huntley towards,” Hill said.

High School’s Varsity team from the In the future, she will not be first week of March to the end of the continuing playing for the colleschool year. giate level but will still play on her “We are literally like sisters. I am school’s club team at the University so close with every single girl on of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. She exthat team. We’re truly like a family, plained that she will still play other we all tell each other everything schools and travel like how they do and we’re so so close. When you at the collegiate level but it is less of transition over in high school, it is a commitment so she can put more sad that we have to time into her lose a few studies. of those “It’s girls but changed “I am so we still who I remain am as a close with just as person. It’s every single close and made me they lita lot more girl on that erally are deterteam.” like my mined. second And it’s Maddie Hill family, made I’m with me have them all a much the time,” higher work Hill said. ethic. A lot of people who don’t play The Huntley soccer team has a lot sports like growing up, I’ve always in store for their upcoming season. had to go from doing homework or They showed a little disappointment school to practice and then doing when looking at last year’s results homework and I’ve always been but have already started working to busy. It’s helped me learn time manchange the outcome of this season. agement and then have a work ethic, “We’ve actually been doing condi- knowing how I need to work hard to tioning sessions on our own outside get things done,” Hill said. of the high school and everything, The Huntley girls Varsity soccer just open with our club. We set it team has a lot in store for us this up all on our own and everything. season. We will watch Hill along And like I say right now is we all say with the other seniors play their to each other, state champs! State last season here at Huntley High, champs! We want to go to state, and hopefully making history. Good we haven’t gotten to state in a long, luck, girls! long time. So that’s kind of our goal

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Sports Basketball

Senior athletes say goodbye The seniors on the boys varsity basketball team reflect on their seasons

F

By Grace Carpenter

For some of the boys on the basketball team, this season will be the last time they step on the court. It is the last time they will hear the crowd roaring when they make the shot and and the last time they will feel the excited energy of the high school student body they have known for many years. For some of them, their adventure will continue into college, but basketball will always be a part of every one of them no matter when their journey will end.

Ryan Sroka started playing on his driveway when he was around three years old. He started playing for the junior Red Raiders, which was the Huntley feeder team in first grade. In middle school, he played for the Marlowe team in seventh and eighth grade. He then came to the high school and played on the sophomore team his freshman year and then the varsity team his sophomore, junior, and senior years.

“It has always been a dream to be on the Huntley team. I used to come as a kid to watch my sister cheer and would end up watching basketball. I have always dreamed of wearing that Huntley jersey,” Sroka said.

He has had some internal struggles with his confidence and has doubted himself at times, yet he has always powered through. “That is a part of the game and that is why I like it, because it is not easy,” Sroka said.

He loves basketball because it allows him to forget about his stress or anger.

“You can just go shoot hoops and it takes everything away,” Sroka said.

There are so many good memories he has and the bond he has created with his teammates are going to last a lifetime.

“You have to deal with adversity a lot and it teaches you how to be a man,”

Sroka said. He would tell someone striving to be on varsity that it is not easy and it is not given to you. “There are going to be people who doubt you, but just work hard and know that anything is possible,” Sroka said.

Hunter French started playing around the age of 4 in the park district leagues.

Where he used to live, there were not many opportunities for him to play basketball so he had to travel pretty far. He moved to this area and was able to start playing locally with the middle school and the high school.

His goal was to make the varsity team, just like any other player. French broke his right leg in a game during his middle school career. He went up for a layup and was hit by someone which caused him to land awkwardly. He came back to the game after physical therapy and worked hard to get back to where he used to be.

“Basketball means everything. Obviously the on-court stuff is going to leave memories but I think the off-court stuff is going to leave more of an impact on me than anything. Like the bus rides, team dinners, and just hanging out with the team. Those are memories that are going to last a lifetime,” French said.

He built relationships with every single one of his teammates throughout the season and they impacted him in a positive way. “Everything matters and you never know who is coming up behind you or who is ready to pass you up. You always have to be ready for your opportunity,” French said.

Luke DiFrancesca started playing basketball when he was 5 years old. He started by playing at the park district and eventually tried out for the middle school team, but got cut. Freshman year he worked hard, lost some weight,

and made the freshman team; however, he barely played. He has always had a passion for basketball and says it comes with great camaraderie.

“Basketball is my escape. It is the only fun thing that I have other than my friends and the people in my life. Basketball is the only thing that is a go-to for me just to do what I love,” DiFrancesca said.

He spends a lot of time with his teammates and has a lot of fun with them.

He had to grind and work hard to get to where he is. “It is not going to happen overnight. It might take a couple of years, which is what it took for me. It is definitely worth it,” Difancesca said.

Ryan Crosby started playing when he was nine. He has played with many different organizations including the feeder team here at Huntley through eighth grade, Epic Hoops during the springs and summers, and Mercury Elite his junior year.

His sophomore year, when he was on varsity, but he did not play a lot. It was defeating for him but it ended up working out. He has a condition called Osgood-Schlatters which causes pain in both of his knees.

“It is like a family with how close we are and I really enjoy being with them every single day. Whether you have had a bad day or not, seeing your teammates really brightens up your day,” Crosby said.

Crosby explained how the varsity team has gotten better throughout the years he has been on the team and how the hard work in the off season made that happen. Crosby even gave a shout out to a younger player who is a junior.

“I want to shout out to my boy Link.

He never really sees the floor but he is probably the best teammate and is HUNTLEYVOICE.COM 45

always cheering for us on the [side].

He always gives us positive energy as a whole and during practice.”

Rafael De La Paz started playing around kindergarten at the park district. He never played travel or club but he did play for the middle school.

His older brother got him interested in playing and he just fell in love with the game. Since he played in middle school, he wanted to play at the high school level as well.

“Basketball is a way for me to have a different group of people that I hang out with and it is also a place where I can relieve stress, anger, and feel free in the moment. Basketball has brought me a lot closer to people here at the school and has also opened me up to new opportunities and helped me develop strong internal values,” De La Paz said.

De La Paz mentions that if you have a passion for the game, there will always be a shot for you to make varsity.

Ryan Vrugt started playing at the rec center when he was 10. In eighth grade he started playing travel. He played baseball and football along with basketball in middle school and had to make a decision of what sport he wanted to pursue in high school, so he chose basketball.

He explained that sometimes it gets hard when you are not playing that much. It was hard for him to go to practice but he worked hard and got through it.

“When I look back on high school, basketball is going to be the thing I remember the most because it took most of my time and it is what I thought about the most. The team has impacted me in a really positive way. I made a lot of relationships with people that will last a long time,” Vrugt said. He said the key to achieving your goals is to stay positive and show up to everything.

Nikolas Mendoza started playing around the age of 12 through the park district. He made the team in middle school at Marlowe. He also played travel and even got to play with some of the 46 THE VOICE MARCH 2020

S. Laput and K. Ambrogio Collage of the senior boys varsity basketball players

boys who are on the high school team now. He played for Epic Hoops with Ryan Crosby, Ryan Sroka, and Uchenna [Egekeze]. Recently, he played for Illinois Magic with Hunter French.

Mendoza has had his nose fractured by one of his teammates along with many other injuries including knee pains, fluid in his elbows, and said that everything was just banged up.

“Basketball is just an outlet when I am sad or down. I always turn to basketball. This team has made a huge impact on my life. Remember every moment. It goes by really fast and I just want to say this was the most fun season of my life. I am really going to miss the sport and all the people,” Mendoza

said.

Uchenna Egekeze started playing at the park district and did the Junior Red Raiders Feeder program. Uchenna knew he wanted to play basketball because it was something that his two brothers did. He said it has been great and he has met a lot of close friends.

“Start early and work now. I am glad to be part of the team for the last three years,” Egekeze said.

Congratulations to the boy’s basketball team for having a successful season. Good luck to every one of you as you move on from your high school sport. Thank you for making Huntley High School proud.

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Sports Basketball

1,000 career points and counting Three basketball players make history within five days of one another

By Ellie Armstrong For a moment, the only sounds were the squeaking of sneakers and the pounding of a basketball against the wood floor. Then, with a roar from the bench and bleachers, senior Uchenna Egekeze drove through two Hampshire players.

“Just finish. Make the layup,” Egekeze said. “I had a chance, so just make the layup and keep playing.”

A three-year varsity player, Egekeze scored his 1,000th career point on Jan. 15 at Hampshire High School. Five days after he was honored with the scoring ball in front of family and friends, Egekeze joined senior Ryan Sroka on the court for the same feat.

Sroka felt the pressure to reach 1,000 throughout the Wheaton-Warrenville MLK Tournament.

He looked out to the stands where his parents and older sisters watched and where signs reminded him of his progress at every shot.

“It’s one of those things where you get excited, but you can’t let it affect you,” Sroka said. “I was really nervous as I shot it, but once it goes in, all this pressure is gone. You move onto the next thing.”

For Egekeze and Sroka, the ‘next thing’ was earning 500 rebounds on Feb. 4 against Crystal Lake South and Feb. 18 against Dundee-Crown, respectively. However, the ‘next thing’ for Raider basketball proved to be another 1,000th career point on Jan. 20 for junior Kamsi Nwogu during the Dekalb MLK Tournament.

A three-year varsity starter, Nwogu became the sixth player in Huntley

High School girls basketball history to score 1,000 career points while playing Burlington Central. “[Scoring 1,000 points] makes me more proud of myself because not a lot of people have done it before,” Nwogu said. “It’s a special crowd to be in.”

Though the success of these three athletes is apparent in their recent accomplishments, their basketball careers cannot be summed up by merely looking at the numbers.

1,000 career points means a commitment to the game. Since Sroka was 3 years old, he has practiced basketball in his driveway and at the gym with his dad, a former collegiate basketball player. Now choosing between Illinois Wesleyan University, University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh, and University of Alabama at Birmingham, Sroka has taken advantage of every hour left at the high school level.

“It’s almost bringing a tear to our eyes,” Sroka’s father, Dave, said.

“We were thrilled and blessed [and] really grateful for him because of the tireless work he put in to get that result.”

Egekeze also began playing young with his older brothers, Amanze and Kemdi, at around 8 years old.

Now looking into Division II and III colleges, Egekeze has followed in Amanze’s footsteps by scoring 1,000 points for HHS. “[Egekeze and Sroka] have both been really competitive since I’ve had them on varsity,” said head boys basketball coach William Benson.

“They improved their individual basketball game and leadership as teammates.”

Kamsi takes a shot

Nwogu has expressed a similar diligence by playing for travel programs such as Illinois Elite and Illinois Hustle during the school’s off season.

“It seems like each year she comes back and adds to her skill set as a basketball player,” said head girls basketball coach Steven Raethz.

“She’s been a very consistent scorer for our team, and we’ve really leaned heavily on her ability to score the basketball for us.”

Nwogu’s interest in basketball began six years ago because of her older brother, who has run drills with her and given her advice over the years.

“Go out there and be confident.

Be aggressive,” Kyle Nwogu said.

“You put in the work, [so] just go out there and do your thing.”

see POINTS page 50 HUNTLEYVOICE.COM 49

Sports Basketball

Soroka and Egekeze playing during a game against Cary

POINTS page 49 Despite their drive, competitiveness, and love for the game, all three athletes emphasized the other factors at play in their accomplishments.

“The coaches have done a great job, I feel like, of making sure I was on the right track and doing what I need to do,” Egekeze said.

In Egekeze’s and Sroka’s sophomore year, the boys basketball team had a 6-23 record. As of Feb. 25, their record was 24-6, demonstrating how a cohesive team can improve, just like a player, with hard work. Girls basketball has also seen great success this season with varsity winning its 10th regional title on Feb. 20 at the 50 THE VOICE MARCH 2020

Rockford Guilford Regional against Hononegah.

“A lot of people think ‘he’s just a really good player,’ but your teammates are passing you the ball, and you couldn’t do it without them,” Sroka said. “It means a lot that they were so happy for me, but they should know that they’re a huge part of how I got there.”

After Egekeze made the layup, he was congratulated by a group of teammates and cheering Raiders.

Once Sroka scored his 1,000th point and heard his name booming over the speakers, he hugged coach Benson and threw the basketball to his dad in the bleachers. Nwogu found

herself in the middle of a huddle surrounded by teammates who had displayed signs for her throughout the tournament saying “Congrats” and “We’re so proud of you.”

The numbers may show three separate moments five days apart of three distinguished athletes, but they also celebrate the persistence of the players and their devotion to the game. 1,000 career points each and Egekeze, Sroka, and Nwogu are still pursuing new goals, new ways to improve.

“When you love something, and you work at it like that, that’s why you become good at it,” Benson said.

“They’ve earned it.”

Editorial

The good, the bad, and the ugly Woo situation shows need for parents, admin to improve

A

As an editorial board we have dug through the resignation of John Woo; our findings can be seen on pages 4-6.

We recommend that you read them before continuing.

When the smoke has cleared, we at the Voice have decided that three groups of people need to be addressed: those who participated in negative Facebook commentary, the students who expressed their views, and the district administration.

To those who participated in the negative Facebook commentary: We do not feel the discussions in both Huntley Chat and Huntley Opinions reflect the friendly community Huntley is supposed to be.

We pride ourselves on being a community that supports those around us, and yes many came out to support John Woo, but many also came to bash the families involved in the incident.

Facebook is no stranger to online disputes; adults argue over everything from politics to restaurant reviews. But many of the posts we saw regarding this situation targeted a new subject: two children.

The boys involved in the Woo conflict were ridiculed for their previous behavior and “reputations.” While some may delete their comments we all know nothing truly disappears. Comments in which the boys’ names were involved could possibly follow them into their futures.

Targeting a child on a social media platform is a classless and immature act and must be called what it is: cyberbullying. We teach our kids to think before they post, “if you don’t have anything nice to say don’t say anything at all.” Yet, when it comes to what mom and dad want to post, there is no limit on what some will say regarding a child.

“It bothered me that even the adults on social media started turning their focus on the students, saying some

things that are really kind of upsetting that as a member of the community they would say something like that or treat any students like that. I don’t care what their age is, they’re still students,” president of the BOE Michael Fleck said.

The attacks on the two boys did not stop at social media. On March 5, at the COW meeting, many stood at the podium and continued to target the actions of children and their parents.

Not all of the adult speakers were wrong in what they said, but those who spoke about the boys and their families were. When adults take to a public forum to bully a family, then children think it is okay for them to do the same.

The culture of our schools depends on mature adult leadership, and in this case the adults have failed the kids.

To the students who protested: We applaud you. Almost all social media posts by the students affected were positive and only spoke to Woo’s character and impact at Huntley High School. While we do not have access to every single post made by students, we could not find any that shed a bad light on the two students involved.

It was impressive to see our student body organize and participate in petitions and walk-outs. This form of civic-engagement helps provide a clear message while still respecting all parties involved.

When those protesting a decision act with civility and respect, their message is received with less anger from the opposing party.

At the same COW Meeting many students spoke alongside the parents. All of the students’ statements were much more respectful and dignified than the adult statements.

Seniors Matt Guido and Sydney Novak; junior William Hartzlog; and sophomores Michelle Chan, Sunni Kwon, and Kayla Le all spoke in front of

the board.

Each of their statements included testimonies to Woo’s importance to Huntley HS, and some proposed alternative courses of action. All students were respectful to the district and the families.

“I’m not going to sit up here and call out names because in my opinion that is not very right. I think what we should do is talk more about what a great man he was and how he helps everybody in the school,” Guido said.

And lastly, to the district administration: We urge you to learn from this unfortunate event. We have spoken to many employees, both on and off the record, and we are upset by the events that have taken place.

John Woo is a good man, but we understand that both sides of the argument regarding his resignation are valid and understandable.

According to Superintendent Scott Rowe, administrators, security personnel, and some special education teachers and paraprofessionals undergo Crisis Prevention Intervention training, Woo included.

Here it seems, that training was not enough.

We urge you to consider the effectiveness of this training. If other or more extensive training was done, would we be in this predicament?

Furthermore, general education teachers are not put through this training at all. If there were to be a physical altercation in their classroom a teacher has no training on what to say or do.

This needs to change.

Moving forward we all need to learn something from this. Parents, staff, and administration: please consider your role in this event.

It has been a troubling time for everyone but it is not too late to grow from it as a community.

HUNTLEYVOICE.COM 51

One last

voice

Elaine Texidor Krause Spanish Teacher Passionate Devoted What made you become a standout student in high school?

As a whole, I was one of those kids that was pretty self-directed. I didn’t need to be told. I was already a self-motivated student.

What is the most rewarding part about your job?

I think the most rewarding part about teaching is the fact that the kids hopefully come out of my class prouder and more secure about their culture and language.

As long as they have that, I feel like I have done my job. If they have that, then they can take that and run.

Why is teaching Spanish for Spanish Speakers different than your other classes?

My kids feel like family here because it is the only time they get to be amongst other Latino kids and it’s the only time they have ever been amongst other Latino kids. So they have this bond but they are a little chatty but I don’t care as long as they are chatting in Spanish.

Where is your favorite place to travel?

I love Spain. I feel comfortable in Spain. I have friends there. The other place where I would love to live is Ireland. I loved Ireland. Ireland is very close to the Hispanic culture on the sense of they are very open, demonstrative, and outspoken.