Huntley High School Voice November 2018

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Contents 04 09 12 18 26 30 34

NEWS

Student unity between different class years- a glance into the changing school culture

Editorial Board Emma Kubelka Editor-in-Chief

huntleyvoice.com// @huntleyvoice

Madison Barr Opinion Editor

The new wave of #MeToo movement sparks controversial #HimToo response

Skylar Sharkey Features Editor Riley Murphy Arts & Entertainment A. Sánchez

Fine Arts Academy welcomes applicants for 2018-19 school year

Arianna Sanchez Photo Editor

E. Kim

A&E

Review on“Girl with the Dragon Tattoo” and info on upcoming movie sequel coming this November

HUMANS OF HUNTLEY

A. Sánchez

Ashley Reilly Social Media Manager Austin Stadie Business Manager Staff Writers Kyle Abruzzo, Mady Borst, Riley Flickinger, Jordyn Grist,Garrett Heinke, Jarrod Khoo, Jenna Stadie, Krista Stadie, Mark Vandy, Sara Vanegas, Riy Walker, Trevor Wolinsky Photographers Zach Isenegger, Elizabeth Kim, Sydney Laput

Colombian exchange student Santiago Fierro discusses his biggest influence

Dennis Brown Adviser

SPORTS

Senior Nolan Engman reflects on the relationships and people that got him to where he is now

Danielle Rhody Sports Editor Olivia Mack Double-Truck Editor

FEATURES

Eli Smith shares road to recovery after battle with drug use

Braden Turk Online Editor Ayman Mirkan News Editor

OPINION

AT A GLANCE

Faith Losbanes Print Editor

Editorial Policy E. Kim

S. Laput

HHS Media are the official student-produced media of news and information published/ produced by HHS Media students. HHS Media have been established as designated public forums for student editors to inform and educate their readers as well as for the discussion of issues of concern to their audience. It will not be viewed or restrained by school officials prior to publication or distribution. Advisers may - and should - coach and discuss content during the writing process. Because school officials do not engage in prior review, and the content of HHS media 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 responsible student staff members assume complete and financial liability for the content of the publication.

News Academies their voices be heard,” Fowler said.

The vision for this group is to create a powerful committee that is able to impact different school policies that might seem unjust to HHS students. It may take a while for the committee to obtain this amount of influence to the administration, but it is extremely feasible.

Oct. 30 was the first official informational meeting of the club where they discussed the fundamentals of the group and sought to see who was interested in this empowering group of student civic engagement.

The turnout was much bigger than some may anticipate the first meeting of a new club may be, but the passion of making a difference was visible within the fiery eyes of each individual student, there thirst for change inspiring any one who would lay eyes on them.

“I’d like to make a difference in this school, starting with this club. I feel like a lot of people have good ideas in this school, but it Z.Isenegger is hard to get them heard. So, I really hope RUMAD can do that [for the people],” sophomore Cole Lamberti said.

However, as uplifting as seeing students who want to make a difference is, the practicality of these students’ voices actually being heard is still up for debate. When asked if she foresaw this club impacting our school, people to make a difference about the topics Fowler gave the following remark. they are passionate about,” Fowler said. This “Well, that is the ultimate goal[ to make an new club will start off as a place of free opinimpact to unjust, school policies]. Howevions, where everyone is entitled to say what er, do I think that every issue will be talked they want to. However, it will soon evolve into about and the solutions be implemented for a place designed to discuss these opinions change? No. However, that is what a democand create common ground for all the debatracy is. You have to voice your opinion to eving students, whether they are advocating for ery situation you can; even if you know your one side or the other. opinion may not be heard,” Fowler said.

The committee has planned to meet one The main marketing strategy the leadership Tuesday of every month, while the student board has for this club is to potentially broadboard members will meet the first and last cast information about the club on either Tuesday of the month.

Raider Nation News or the daily announceIn terms of what topics will be discussed in ments. each debate, the list goes on and on. Topics “I feel like this is just a great environment can go as local as the dress code within Huntto talk about politics and it gives you the ley High School to as national as abortion. opportunity to make a difference within the The idea of this committee is that students school. If you have an opinion about a topic have a place to discuss their feelings about a you feel strongly about, then this is the club topic and also understand the viewpoint of for you,” Lamberti said. another side of the issue at the same time.

These students from RUMAD all desire “Our goal is going to be directed by our positive change to this world and will persestudent run board. Through the discussions vere through all the challenges necessary to and the different policies that they debate, it make their dream into a feasible future for will truly lead our direction for the committhe local community, the state, and even the tee. The main focus that we are tying to make entire nation. change in the community or just to make

A Place to Get Mad. HHS introduces its first civic engagement club

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By Ayman Mirkhan The power of a voice. It can be big or small, but the impact of one person’s opinion can change the whole scope of any topic. This ideology is the main core of civic engagement groups and led to the creation of the HHS club Raiders United Making a Difference.

Last year, social studies teacher Renee Fowler and a couple of other students went to a state convention to analyze the civic engagement group seen within the McCormick Foundation.

The McCormick Foundation is an organization that focuses on the empowerment of today’s youth and not only teaches them how to share opinions with people with opposite views, but also gives them the resources to make the change they want within the community.

This inspired Fowler and the other students that accompanied her to create a new civic engagement club within Huntley High School.

The layout of the group is still being finalized, but the overall structure has already been decided by the advisors.

“We are going to have open forums, debates, current event discussions and debates, Hopefully we will have a plan of action for

HUNTLEYVOICE.COM 3

News Academies

HHS Falling Apart.

Has Huntley High School lost its student unity?

Contrary to some students’ ideas, Principal Belin is not responsible for all changes to HHS. Society’s tolerance for behavior, and views on how to treat others, have shaped the school rules.

The bond between upperclassmen and underclassmen is complex and goes past school rules. It’s more than dressing differently on school spirit days. Every

By Jordyn Grist student has their own “To be honest, I opinion on how the think the condeschool atmosphere is, scending attitude and how their relationthat the upperclass- ships are with upper or men give underclass- underclassmen. men is rather petty.

For some students, It is usually the fault there is a lack of unity of a few freshmen at HHS. This is for several reasons: American that adhere to the stereotype of acting high school culture, the age gap between self-entitled and grades, and the differawkward,” ence in maturity, are DANIEL SALDANA just a few.

A. Sanchez Senior Daniel SalIn fall of this year, Huntley High dana believes that it is School newcomers and returning Principal Belin addressed the situation unnecessary for underclassmen to be students were faced with the change treated with disrespect simply because publicly and promptly. of gaining a new superintendent, Scott they are freshmen or sophomores.

This year, there have been more anRowe, and a new principal, Marcus “To be honest, I think the condenouncements like these than in the past.

Belin. scending attitude that the upperclassAnother example is the football game In addition to this adjustment, men give underclassmen is rather petty.

Raider Nation seating announcement. students of HHS have faced stronger It is usually the fault of a few freshmen Belin spoke during third hour’s consequences for rules that were previ- announcements to explain that seniors that adhere to the stereotype of acting ously enforced. cannot kick underclassmen out of their self-entitled and awkward,” Saldana During Homecoming week in this said. “Or perhaps the presence of freshseats if they were there first. past Sept., senior students who dressed men feels like our already established “I think the school policies remain as the opposite sex were asked to hierarchy is being invaded by little the same, because [telling freshman to change their clothes because it troubled get out of seats] was not allowed [in the kids, and the upperclassmen reject this some students; some who dressed up past] either. I just think the enforcement change by looking down on the freshwere given detentions. of the policies has evolved,” Superinten- men.”

While it is not a formal rule to follow dent Scott Rowe said. “So I wouldn’t say Based on the similar responses from a the Student Council’s dress schedit is more strict, it’s just that our expec- small sample or senior students at HHS, ule during Homecoming week, it is tations of how we treat people have; and it is likely more seniors feel this way. customary. The same can be said of the what’s acceptable and what’s not have The stigma that underclassmen are seniors who rebel against the school the immature, newly-turned teens, and caught up to where they need to be.”

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4 THE VOICE NOVEMBER 2018

year after year by dressing according to their own schedule.

School dress can be a difficult topic to enforce since as long as it is within the school’s dress code, it is considered freedom of expression. This year’s enforcement sparked an outrage, and most students looked to Principal Belin as the reason why this was happening.

positive and negative opinions are to be expected.

“I believe that most underclassmen and upperclassmen are respectful to each other,” junior Payton Gunther said.

“There are, on occasion, some instances when attitudes can be improved, or when I am disappointed in how some students are acting. However, I do believe that attitudes can change and all students can become more respectful of each other.”

According to Scott Rowe, seniors are the ones who can spark the high school environment’s change.

“As seniors, you set the example of what is acceptable in the building,” Rowe said. “And to accomplish A. Sanchez this familial concept that Mr. Belin is seniors are experienced, mature adults, all grade levels higher than freshmen: pushing-which I think is fantastic and has been integrated into today’s society. each year, the level of false “authority” I support-the seniors [need to take] an increases. The moment active role in respectful enforcement. “[The relationship between underclassmen “I think the school a freshman becomes a [The change] will happen. Just like that.” sophomore, they fall and upperclassmen] policies remain the Though the situation may seem dim feels like something that same, because [tell- into that continuous to some, change is still achievable and is ingrained in Amering freshman to get cycle. And each year, starts with the actions of our seniors. ican culture,”Saldana out of seats] was not it’s freshmen versus all “If the seniors took the approach said. “It has existed for and still had the mindset that ‘this is allowed [in the past] other grades.

Although, some so long that it feels normy school, I value this place I love this either. I just think students have different mal, even to the point place and this is what’s expected,’ and the enforcement opinions to express on in which the students walked the walk, people would folof the policies has the issue. would sabotage any low suit. Absolutely,” Superintendent evolved,” “Underclassmen and Rowe said. “And it wouldn’t have to be attempt to change the upperclassmen have a SCOTT ROWE current system.” confrontational, it’d just have to be how special bond: they can But the seniors and we do things here. And I think that over rely on one another. I freshmen are not the a couple of years of instilling that, the have many friends who are older than only grades at HHS. The juniors and feeling of disunity and some of the low sophomores are included in this group- me, and I think it’s important to have a level things that some people have to ing of sticking to their own grade levels’ friendship with someone outside your deal with in high school will go away. age range,” freshman Rebecca McTague And you can focus on getting closer to normities.

“A couple years ago, the juniors didn’t said. “It benefits you and shows you that ‘High School Musical’ dream of how they act, and can impact you as a take off their red shirts [at the Homemine, you know. But if we could start friend, and as a peer,” freshman Rebecca that wave, that’d be huge.” coming pep rally] when everyone was McTague said.” changing to black,” Superintendent Depending on a student’s experience Rowe said. “The juniors wanted to rebel with people of different grade levels, because they wanted to be top dog.” their individual views will differ. Both There’s a common trend between HUNTLEYVOICE.COM 5

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Opinion Academics

Hub or prison?

Strict rules constrain student collaboration

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By Kyle Abruzzo

The Hub is a wonderful place here at Huntley High School instead of dead silence,” junior Brooke Borchart said. to relax, study, or do homework. Although the Hub is an Other students have said that the Hub allows them to be amazing place to get work done, it has some downsides. very efficient.

Could the Hub be pushing it a little too far with the strict “I find myself in the Hub all of the time getting large rules in place? amounts of work done,” junior Rachel Sawyer said. “Although For the past three years, the Hub has been offered to all I have heard stories from other students saying that they asked HHS students at anytime of the school day. A place to have a the person sitting next to them a question about an assignquiet, productive, and efficient work zone could sound like a ment, and got kicked out.” done deal on where to go to work at HHS. When said, is it still Right when you walk in the Hub, there are cameras overquiet when the person nexts to you gets kicked out for having looking the whole place which can be seen by the students their music “too loud?” on the computers in the front.This seems to be excessive and Don’t get me wrong, the Hub still has a valuable purpose. students do not like the feeling of being “watched” at all times.

“The Hub is a place for all students to be able to come to “You would assume that the general cameras would be focus on the task at hand, whether that be homework or enough, but it’s so restrictive that we are being individually studying for a test,” Hub Manager Soss supervised,” Hasse said. said. “It could also just be a place to relax “I sometimes feel If any student has anything to eat or and go on their phone.” drink, they will immediately be asked to that the rules in I guess that’s all you can do though, unleave the Hub without question. The stuless you want to get kicked out for the day. dents should be able to have these things, the Hub are too The rules that are in place for the Hub are as long as they clean up any mess that was restrictive, and very strict. Even the littlest things can send possibly made. you right back out. force out the con- “One time I walked into the Hub with a “I sometimes feel that the rules in the Starbucks drink and right away I was asked cept of collaboraHub are too restrictive, and force out the to leave, which made me unable to get my concept of collaboration, which is proven work done,” junior Samantha Martell said. tion.” to be one of the best ways to learn,” junior “I usually find the Hub an efficient place to Zella Hasse said. work, but I thought it was ridiculous when ZELLA HASSE When working in the Hub, you either I could not bring my lidded drink in.” have to use a collaboration room or work While the Hub is a very efficient place to completely in silence, there is no in between. The sound of get work done, but you need to make sure you are following people scanning their IDs is louder than their voices. Yet stu- the rules 100 percent otherwise you will more than likely be dents still get asked to leave when whispering. asked to leave.

The Hub should be treated more like a library, rather than a Many students here at Huntley High School love the Hub, completely silent work area. but agree that it has its downsides. The Hub has been this “I think it would be more functional if it was treated as a way for awhile now, but who knows when there will ever be a place that accepted quiet and school-related conversation change.

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Opinion Activism

#HimToo: straying the spotlight from survivors

lieve that it’s a step back from equality for all men and women.

About 2 percent of all rape allegations are false. So out of 100 people who have been raped, only two of them are not telling the truth.

Rape and sexual assault has become such a prominent theme in society that people think when we are protesting it with movements like #MeToo, we are protesting lives. As a result, new movements are made to combat this idea and to silence the victims who are more likely to have been raped than not.

Recently, there has been a number of women coming forward against celebrities, actors, etc. and claiming that they were

By Riley Flickinger sexually assaulted by these people. Because they have come forward, many people in the #HimToo movement have said that At Huntley High School, more than 50 percent of the stuthey have been lying and claiming these allegations to become dent population is male. However, in Illinois, there are more famous. women than there are men. For some reason, people have been But the question is, does anyone actually know the names of questioning these women’s words and victim-blaming them for the so-called victims? something that is out of their control. In fact, every one out of “I believe them, I can just see it happening because it’s a gensix women have become a victim of an attempted or completed eral problem women have,” Crapeau said. “Sometimes men just sexual assault. overlook it.”

Throughout the years, women have been sexually assaulted Our generation should be the generation of change, but when and harassed. It has been a common theme for centuries, not people overlook these issues, we stay the same. only are women being raped, but men are too.

Research shows that 63 percent of all rapes or attempted rapes There has been a movement for all the victims to come to a are never reported. There are many reasons for this, but one of safe place, share their experiences, and to get justice for the vio- the biggest reasons is because they’re afraid of being criticized lating crimes committed against them. This movement is called by the public. The #HimToo movement does just that. It critithe #MeToo movement. #MeToo is directed towards all sorts of cizes the victims and makes it so their problems and trauma are people; men, women, and even children. It encourages people obsolete. to call out their attackers and get through the trauma of their A student, who would rather stay anonymous, said that she sexually assault. It is also there to raise awareness as to what is in had been sexually harassed. However, she never reported it in violation of a basic human rights. because she never considered it to be sexual harassment.

However, this movement has caused a lot of controversy, and This shows that the media and the criticism that is seen can has even sprung up a new movement in itself, the #HimToo impact a woman’s thought process. It also shows that this hapmovement. pens so often that underaged girls are even considering sexually The #HimToo movement was started soon after the #MeToo harrasment as part of everyday and just overall life. movement made its big debut in 2017, and with the recent Brett This movement is a problem and it needs to be fixed. It takes Kavanaugh confirmation, it has become more prevalent on away the innocence that we should be experiencing, and it social media. makes it all right for the people committing these despicable For those who don’t know what the #HimToo movement is, crimes to commit them. it’s a movement dedicated to men who were falsely accused of We need to be the generation that consoles and respects each rape and sexual assault, and to raise awareness about these false other to fix this problem. Only then can we be equal to each allegations. But many people question this movement and beother.

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Opinion Academies

Proposed fine arts expansions generate excitement, concerns

these dimensions might not severely impact parking space, there is no doubt that existing “natural” areas will be affected in one way or another. “[Parking] is already at capacity and we don’t need to take that away,” said junior Isabella Fleege. “A lot of people rely on it if they’re in sports or activities.”

Band teacher Kevin Krivosik rebukes this stance, however, saying that only the grass-covered area will be used. But even if parking is left alone, the entire operation feels constrained, like the proposal is using the last bit of open space left.

Yet, from the band’s perspective, even this might not give their classes enough room.

“The program keeps growing and growing,” Krivosik said.

“We need places to put [instruments] rather than just housing

By Braden Turk them in the band room and putting [them] throughout the Ask the average student or teacher at Huntley High School school.” about the Fine Arts Academy and they will probably be indifIt is a well-known fact that the Class of 2022 is one of the largferent towards it. Ask any band, theater, or choir members and est student bodies HHS has ever seen. As this group approaches they will express a flurry of emotions: joy for the excitement of their junior and senior years and get their own cars, the desired putting on plays and creating music, but anger for the limited parking spots could hit a high that might significantly exceed space of the Performing Arts Center and instrument storage. what we have.

Recently, the District 158 Board of Education has voted to Some may argue that extra parking space may be a waste, but research more into the idea of a “black box theater,” of which are this outcome would certainly be better than the current syssmall, undecorated rooms primarily used for one-act plays and tem, where buying a spot is about as stressful as getting concert other experimental performances. tickets.

This proposal was made by Superintendent Scott Rowe at Keep in mind that most students are still learning the ropes as the Sept. 6 Board of Education meeting, essentially being the they go; having breathing room for pulling out of parking spaces first major decision he has made since being appointed. A new would not be an unwelcome change. playbill gallery and larger storage areas have been included in Edging into some of the farmland would not be past the the plan as well. district’s reach and will compliment these imminent expansions However, as interesting as these expansions are, they bring nicely. Not much space is needed -- just enough of a cushion to up one of the most problematic issues in the school right now: ensure HHS will not completely overflow. space.

As the school’s population increases, so should everything else According to the rudimentary project outline, the new theater and not just academic spaces. These proposals are very interestwill span a length of 60 feet and extend a width of 53 feet; the ing and will no doubt effect positive change within the Fine Arts accommodating lobby will stretch to the same width. While Academy, but will all be in vain if nobody can use them.

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HUNTLEYVOICE.COM 11

Huntley at a Glance

Fine Arts Makes its Way to Huntley

On April 16, Huntley High School announced that it would be introducing the Fine Arts, which will be available to sophomores and juniors. The purpose of the Fine Arts Academy is to pave students the path need to pursue a career in fine arts. Applications for the academy ended on Oct. 15 and interviews for a position within the academy are being held on Nov. 15. Fine Arts Department Chair Leah Novak focuses on a couple key factors when deciding who has a potential spot in the academy. “We are looking for an impactful, personal statement[ in the applications] that describes how important the arts are[ to the applicant]�

Novak said. This new addition to HHS allows students to excel in their interests and give them the insight needed in choosing their future careers; creating the ambitious pioneers of tomorrow.

- Jarrod Khoo Photograph by Elizabeth Kim

Features Community

Tech Crew inspires community among members

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By Madison Barr It was the first show he has had the opportunity to be a part of the crew for: Marlowe Middle School’s “The Lion King Jr.” Although he was given the opportunity to do only a few things due to his lack of experience, it did not matter to him because he was able to watch and participate in the show with his friend.

The warm glow of the lights bouncing around the stage and backdrop reflected a similar joy within himself. Freshman Nicolas Reese had found something he loves.

The technical department of the Performing Arts Center is often, as it seems, overlooked by students attending the theatrical shows.

Of course, it is hard to ignore the pretty lights or the sounds coming out of the mics on stage, but the effort and time put into these elements is not as well-known to the audience. And because the Performing Arts Center (PAC) is a district facility, they host a multitude of shows throughout the year.

“We’re an interesting facility as far as the PAC is concerned,” District 158 Technical Director Nathan Knapke said. “We’re doing nine shows a year which is distributed between high school, middle schools, and elementary schools.”

On top of the theatrical shows that take place in the PAC, tech also operates community events in need of lights or sound mixing, such as the Huntley Hootenanny which took place this past September.

Knapke is well-known amongst the theatre kids here at Huntley High School, but it is hard to believe that it is only his fifth 14 THE VOICE NOVEMBER 2018

S. Laput

year as the district’s technical director.

“This was actually my first job out of college and I was 20 years old at the time so I’ve learned a lot in the last five years,” Knapke said.

Over the weekend of Oct. 26 to 28, the PAC hosted “Mulan Jr.,” a Heineman Middle School production of Disney’s classic animated movie, “Mulan.”

“This will be my 45th show in the district. For most high schools, you’re doing three to four shows a year as far as the theatrical shows go. So someone on that ‘five-year contract’ should be around 15 shows but I’m at like, 45 shows,” Knapke said. “So it’s definitely one of the challenges of being here and that’s why the crew so important.”

With such a large number of shows at hand per year, it is clear that the time commitment for the tech crews is considerably substantial. However, one thing that is hard to imagine not being a part of, is the family that develops as a result of being part of a crew.

“Once you come out of your shell with the crew, you really start to feel like it’s a family,” current senior Nicolas Reese said.

“It’s a lot of different personalities and everything clicks. You really get to know the other people when you spend 20 plus hours a week with them.”

Reese has always been interested in theatre throughout middle school, but was consistently more interested in the work that goes on behind the scenes rather than the action on stage. When his high school career began, it only seemed fitting for him to try out to be on his first tech gig.

After a whirlwind of four years has passed right by him, Reese is the most experienced senior tech on board and is having a hard time believing that this is his last year being a part of Huntley High School’s tech program.

“I’ve definitely learned a lot over the past few years and it’s honestly going to be the one thing I miss most from high school,” Reese said.

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Features Passion

Emilie Fasano uses art to improve mental health

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By Ashley Reilly

On a rainy October night Emilie Fasano sits at her cluttered art desk, and she uses her paint brush to put the final details on Treat, a Halloween inspired Littlest Pet Shop remodel. She can feel the excitement building up in her brain. After three weeks of hard work, she has finally finished creating Treat.

She feels the pride rising in her. She runs to everyone in her house and shows them her finished creation and takes pictures to send to her friends.

She was happier than she had been in a long time. At that moment, all the deadlines she had, all the people she thought about, all of her anxiety was washed from her brain and she was filled with joy.

Fasano started sketching when she was in kindergarten. She had been in her school’s library when she found an instructional book on how to draw anime.

“I looked at it and was like this is super pretty! I want to draw this! I was so determined to draw anime, I kept on practicing and practicing,” Fasano said. “Around eighth grade I knew this wasn’t working, I don’t like this style [anymore]. So I explored and now I have a totally different art style, it’s a mix of western anime, cartoon and realism.”

16 THE VOICE NOVEMBER 2018

Now she finds herself exploring all different mediums of art.

When she was 11 years old she discovered remodeling Littlest Pet Shops and since then has started to incorporate Monster High Dolls.

A hobby that Fasano started when she was 4 has now turned into the main way that she copes with her anxiety, depression, and attention deficit disorder. “[Art] spreads from my anxiety. I use art as a stress reliever, to help me not overreact or over do stuff. I do use art as a hobby as well,” Fasano said. “I have all these ideas in my head. I have ADD so when I get ideas it’s hard to

keep focus so I put it down on paper and it helps me focus on other things I have to do.”

When Fasano encounters situations that trigger her anxiety, like deadlines or fearing how others perceive her, she falls back on art.

Whether it is doodling in her sketchbook or recreating a Littlest Pet Shop, she knows art will calm her down and help her avoid breaking down.

Fasano’s art began to transition from a hobby to a coping tool when her brother gave her a Lego Ninjago book that he no longer wanted.

“I am obsessed with cartoons and when I was younger and I was bored,

people.

“I started to draw heroic things, especially with my own characters,” Fasano said. “There was a lot of stuff going on with that, especially with my own characters. I had some that represented all the bad things about myself.

It was like an internal battle for myself, but now, I feel like I am taking all the bad things from myself.”

These characters helped her develop as a person. Fasano’s father, Matt Fasano, started to see Fasano break out of the barriers she had always been surrounded by.

“I would say the biggest change was that when she had finished drawing there was always and element of fantasy that she was really excited about and would want to communicate. So whatever she had in her head she was able to put on paper and then communicate what she had on the paper with what she was thinking about inside her head,” Matt Fasano said.It was a really neat way to transition from what was inside to outside and then communicate to other people. I think it helped her communication skills a lot.”

As Fasano developed her thoughts E. Kim and feelings into art, she had the abilI thought I had to like what other girls ity to put those thoughts and feelings liked, but I started liking Lego Ninja- into words. go,” said Fasano. “I started to get into She had used art to get over her ninjas and then into Japanese mythol- greatest barrier, communication, and ogy.” was on the road to defeating the strugAs she started to research this new gles she had been fighting for so long. found interest, she stumbled across a “I struggled with fitting in, and it show she had never heard of before, was around sixth grade when I finally “Samurai Jack,” an action-adventure decided, who cares if I fit in. I was a television series that followed Jack, a loner throughout middle school, it was Japanese samurai, along his adventure a very depressing time mainly because to prevent Aku, the antagonist in the I didn’t have a friend group, and I series, from taking over the world. found Hayley Massaro my best friend,” As Fasano became more interested Fasano said. “I was very shy, and now in the show she started to admire Jack look at me. I sometimes can’t even and the way he always acted out of keep my mouth shut!” kindness and saw the good in other As she began to become close to

Massaro and other friends, Fasano started to show them the things that she loved, the same things that she felt she would be shamed for liking.

“I like baby things, I like My Little Pony, drawing helped me realize just because it’s a kids thing doesn’t mean I can’t like it,” Fasano said.

She started to become part of an online community called Brony, where she gained inspiration and a sense of belonging. Art became a serious part of her life. If she had free time, you could always find her at her art desk.

“When art became a serious part of her life, I saw that she was more focused and happier. It gives her something to focus on and to think about instead of what might be going on in school or in the world,” Fasano’s mother, Julie Fasano said. “It’s a good outlet for her to keep herself occupied and happy. That’s what life’s about.”

Fasano had found her way out of the dark. She continues every day to use art in a way that builds her up and keeps her head above the water.

“There is a way to overcome depression and anxiety. You’re not stuck there,” Fasano said. “Art isn’t the only thing that people have done that helps them relieve their anxiety. If you feel like art isn’t your thing that helps you, maybe it’s something else. Try a bunch of stuff and see what works for you.”

What someone else may see as a painting, a remodel, or a doodle, Fasano sees all the strides she has made.

She sees the person she was, and the person she has become. She sees the lonely times, and the days she made new friends. She sees late nights working on assignments more stressed out than ever. She sees figuring out how to deal with school work, and how to ignore the people who judge her.

What most people see as art, Fasano sees as her savior.

HUNTLEYVOICE.COM 17

Features Perseverance

Elijah Smith overcomes fight with drug addiction

A

By Olivia Mack

As the glaring sunlight hits his eyes, he finds himself craving his vape. Yearning to take one last hit before he begins a new journey, he reaches into his pocket for it.

He then realizes that it is at home, stored away, in hopes that it will never be used again. He takes his shaky hand out of his pocket, and tries to calm himself down.

Taking a few deep breaths, he takes a hesitant step in hopes of reclaiming his future.

Agreeing to go to rehab was the first step in accomplishing that.

Everyone has their demons. “Demons” refer to a person’s addiction in life. They can range from practically anything eating disorders, gambling, cigarettes, etc.

For 19-year-old Elijah Smith, it was drugs and alcohol.

Smith had been using for five years, particularly opioids, and then finally decided to call it quits and sober up.

“I drank daily. Even during school days,” Smith said. “Near the end I started getting into pills. That’s when it got bad.”

Smith had experienced troubles at home with his family after becoming an addict, which is what sparked his decision to receive help.

He had lost the connection that he longed for with his family because of his addiction, which also helped him decide to get clean. He spent a month and a half at the rehabilitation hospital, Alexian Brothers.

Smoking and drinking was something that became apart of his daily routine.

18 THE VOICE NOVEMBER 2018

Smith explains that he would get up an hour before he needed to to go to school to smoke every day. Since he consumed such a large amount of drugs and alcohol on a daily basis, all of it has taken a significant effect on his body in several ways.

“Mentally, it didn’t do me any favors. It made everything a lot worse. Physically I’m a lot slower,” Smith said.

He experimented with drugs and alcohol from an early age with his friends, being a curious teenager wanting to experience a change within his life. Not knowing he would become so dependent on the drugs, he tested the waters with almost anything he could get his hands on.

Smith mainly became addicted to Adderall, which is a prescription drug normally used to treat people with

attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.

Alcohol and his drinking habits, though, were the hardest for him to let go of.

Kratom, which is a drug that is known to give off feelings of euphoria when taking it, was his getaway drug that got him into alcohol. Smith and his body became overall reliant on all of the drugs.

One of Smith’s best friends, senior Faith Gaston, experienced a lot of what he went through, since his whole friend group did these activities together.

“When he finally got help, and he tried to fix [himself]...our whole friend group split and [we] tried to better ourselves,” Gaston said.

Gaston also mentioned that they made drugs, smoking more specifically, a priority before they did anything. They would

The rehab process he went through was extremely hard, as Smith found the drugs to be exhilarating, bringing excitement to his life. This is what caused such a strain for him to let go of his addictions.

“I felt like a badass, not gonna lie,” Smith said. “Sneaking out to do it, or figuring out when to do it. It’s the whole [experience] that’s addicting.”

A lot of the feelings that Smith felt while taking the drugs are common within the teenage population, which is what urges them to want to try it in the first place. Substance abuse is known to be more common among teenagers, as teenagers’ brains take a longer amount of time to develop. This affects our abilities to make smarter decisions, henceforth forming a connection between substance abuse.

The peer pressure of using drugs and alcohol in high school is also known to be very high, because of the use at parties, during school hours, and more.

Even after receiving help from Alexian Brothers Hospital, Smith still experienced a hard time saying no to the drugs and alcohol when hanging out with friends, or even just by himself.

“I closed myself off from all [of] my friends for seven months. I didn’t go out at all until I knew I was [capable] to say A. S ánchez no to the drugs,” Smith said. “Now I can smoke all day at Smith’s house together, be around it and say no, with no proband that occurred almost every day. lem.”

Smith’s decision to go and get help for his Since Smith made drugs and alcohol struggles inspired his friend group to do his first priority, he was not able to finish what they could to get better and quit, his senior year of high school. Now he and Smith explains that one of his other attends an alternative school, which has best friends went through the same rehab allowed him to become more successful experience as he did. Knowing that he in his studies and focus more on school. had someone directly by his side, going He is maintaining a good grade point through the exact same program for the average, and hangs out with his friends in exact same reasons helped him out a lot. his free time.

His rehabilitation process consisted Transition specialist for Huntley High of taking multiple classes on a day to School, Kristin Kubic-Peterson, was day basis that would have him focus someone that Smith felt comfortable with on improving his mental and physical confiding in, helping him out on a daily health. Phones were not allowed when he basis. entered the hospital building, so that his She introduced him into a program sole focus was getting better and becom- called Renew, which was specifically ing the best version of himself. made for students struggling academical-

ly, emotionally, and personally. Renew is through HHS, and attempts to lead students facing some of those struggles into a different direction.

Kubic-Peterson was Smith’s facilitator, which meant she was his advocate for getting the help he needed.

“I was glad he finally decided to [get help]. He was very resistant to a lot of help prior to that,” Kubic-Peterson said.

“I was really proud of him to make that decision. Generally, if you make that decision on your own you’re more likely to be successful in it.”

Kubic-Peterson has worked with other kids at HHS, but found herself acquiring a tight bond with Smith. She ended up being a large role model in his life.

“He is a really cool kid. I wish that other kids got to see and know the kid that I know,” Kubic-Peterson said. “He has a ton of potential if he would reach it for himself. I adore him.”

Kubic-Peterson continues to advise him and tries to be apart of Smith’s support system. She continues to check in on him, and attends all of his meetings for Renew.

As for Smith’s future, he aspires to become a chef. After he receives his high school diploma his plan is to attend Elgin Community College and study culinary arts. Soon after that, Smith hopes to one day have his own restaurant.

Smith’s mom, Amanda, was the one that ignited his passion for cooking, and in wanting a career in the culinary arts. She is always worked in kitchen ever since he was little, and whenever he goes to her house she would be cooking something no matter what.

Smith has a very bright future ahead of him. Turning his life around and making the decision to go to rehab has proven so far to be a positive choice.

For those going through the same struggles, it is never too late to get help.

“You have to have support. You don’t want to do it yourself. It gets really lonely and it gets really hard. Get help. Get someone that you know will stick by you and your decisions,” Smith said.

HUNTLEYVOICE.COM 19

JOSHUA SZESZOL

REST IN POWER

On Oct. 6, Huntley High School students were shocked to learn of the death of Josh Szeszol, ‘17.

He was a student, an artist, a friend, a brother, an actor, and a son, and his death devastated many throughout the school. As we started to dive deeper into Josh’s life, we realized that we had tak-

en on an impossible task in putting his life on a page. We began interviewing his friends and family. After countless hours of transcribing the conversations, we realized that nobody could tell his story better than the people who worked with him, lived with him, and loved him.

This the story of the boy who was bigger than life.

Interviews by Faith Losbanes and Emma Kubelka

20 THE VOICE NOVEMBER 2018

Zachariah Szeszol, brother

like it stopped spinning, no noise just a state e were the closest this summer up until he died. of shock. All I My favorite memory of Josh of all time was we could think was went to Six Flags with Gwen and Reese. That day was just so much fun because I felt like that he didn’t ‘is it real?’ Nothing felt right. care, I could just be myself around him so like he felt comfortable This happened to talk to me. I felt like there was no wall between us any more. I to me the next guess I was just finally old enough. few days after He was kind of like a mentor to me. I looked up to him. Josh that. It was just introduced me to theatre which is where I categorize myself. Like when someone asks me what I do I say I’m a theatre kid. I’m an arts gray. The entire day was gray. It kid because of Josh. I’ve always had teachers that call me Josh on was so weird, accident. everything was Everyone says I either look a lot like Noah or a lot like Josh. quiet. Everything Corapi would accidentally call me Josh and D would always do to had a gray tint. I the same. It’s fine with me. couldn’t process I looked up to him.

Josh was exciting, loud, and an accepting person. That was some- anything. I was thing that I was able to draw to when I was younger. I was drawn to immobilized, I probably looked Josh, I looked up to him which lead me to join theatre. like was someone My favorite trait Josh had? I guess if being yourself is a trait, then that. Being himself, not giving a f*ck about what other people get shot right in think. I think that was what his most admirable trait was. There was front of me.

Part of me isn’t acknowledging that he’s gone, but I know that, this video of him in full drag at Fright Fest 2017 and there was this anti-gay protester and Josh, in full drag, is dancing and everybody’s he’s gone and I accepted the fact.

We all thought he was doing so well so it was just a shock when cheering for him. He didn’t care. I’d love to imagine him going to a we heard the news. I remember earlier that week I Facetimed him.

Trump rally I couldn’t imagine the type of storm he would cause.

The last thing he said to me was, “I love you, talk to you later.”

[Going through his stuff was] bittersweet because I love Josh’s Josh didn’t give a sh#t about what other people thought of him. clothes, so I’m wearing my favorite sweatshirt and his joggers right Literally he was always so himself. He would always be able to clap now. back, he was never afraid to say whatever was on his mind. At his [When I found out,] I walked downstairs and my dad looked wake, we passed little rainbow ribbons to tie around our wrists to extremely sad and looked straight at me. The first thing I said was show pride like Josh had in himself. ‘tell me who died,’ I could just tell on their faces. They waited a If you need something, talk to a close friend, someone you moment it was the slowest yet fastest time in my life and they said Josh died. The words did not feel real. My dad said ‘Josh thought he can a trust, a family member, a therapist. If you’re worried about could fly.’ I dad was just trying to sugar coat it to make it sound less somebody struggling with suicidal thoughts, tell somebody about it horrible- I still know what he meant. I was in such a state of shock. because it’s better off for it to be nothing at all than for it to be real.

I couldn’t speak; my mouth didn’t know how to work. The earth felt It shows you really do care.

W

David Szeszol, father

J

osh was born on stage, he was meant to be a star. Josh was always bigger than life, as a little kid even. He was never a normal kid, he didn’t play normal kid things. He was always learning something. He didn’t fit in with kids his own age because he was so much farther ahead in life. My friends used to make jokes that he was an old man in a little kid body. Everyone else was out playing soccer and he was learning a foreign language. He was just ahead of everyone else in his age bracket so he never fit in.

He was involved in theater for his whole life. Ever since he was in kindergarten. When he first went to school he used to stutter; he was in speech class and therapy. He used to get made fun of when he was little; the kids used to pick on him.

He learned to overcome the stutter and do theater. He wasn’t going to let that stop him and theater became his passion, that’s where he ended up.

He always stood up for his beliefs and he wasn’t going to let people sway him or peer pressure him into believing otherwise.

He shouldn’t be dead. He could’ve done so much. Such a waste. It’s painful and I don’t want him to be forgotten and I don’t want anyone else to die. It’s hard being a teenager let alone being afraid because someone has been mean to you or bullied you or picked on you HUNTLEYVOICE.COM 21

or made fun of you or discriminated against you. This is a place where people should be comfortable within their own skin. They should be allowed to talk about their feelings and emotions and they shouldn’t be trapped or be prisoners. That’s what Josh was, he was a free spirit.

Josh loved the city, loved the hustle and bustle, there was always something to do. He explored all the different places, ran all over the place, he went to Coney Island. He’d go out to the beach at Coney Island and the amusement park. The whole Time Square and theater area: that was his world, where he wanted to be.

It’s unbearable that he died. I was there the day he was born and I was there the day he died. It’s not supposed to be that way. Nobody wants to bury their baby. My whole life was taking care of Joshua. I helped him overcome all of the things that challenged him, all the hardships he encountered, that was a full time job. Helping steer him in the right direction, helping him achieve his goals, and now he’s gone. Maybe I shouldn’t have sent him to [New York]. It doesn’t go away, it doesn’t get any better, I think about it all of the time.

Everytime I see a picture it’s just there. Then I’m going on Google Earth from the top of the building to the bottom to see what it’s like to fall. It’s horrifying. I wouldn’t wish it on anybody. All I can do is tell all those parents is watch all your kids and hold them close.

I don’t know how to stop it, you see it on the news every day. Josh was a good person he had a big heart, always stood up for the underdog. He was always a defender to people who were being picked on. He always was there willing to help somebody who was looking to improve themself or to be a better person. He wasn’t somebody that was out there picking on people.

I want to tell people not to be afraid, to talk about what is going on. It’s not easy being a teenager today. There’s a lot of people with mental health issues, minor or major, there’s this stigma they have about being honest and letting people know what’s going on.

When he died they did a thing at the college and they had an assembly the Tuesday after his death and the whole purpose of the

assembly was to make all the kids aware of therapy that was available.

Grief stuff.

It ended up becoming kind of a tribute to him, the College President told me. Kids started talking about their struggles and their mental health issues and they didn’t know how to act or who to talk to or how to cope with different situations, and they admired and respected how Josh was open about it and he didn’t keep it a secret.

He shared his struggles over his years of life, and what he went through and how he overcame it. He didn’t let all that social stigma keep him down, he walked through it. They admired him because he wasn’t afraid to be who he was and he was a free spirit and he was going to conquer the world and not be shoved in a closet to hide. That’s what people did at the school they all admired what he was able to do. They’re 18 or 19 years old, they’ve never been away from home. They’re in New York City, this big scary place and Josh was just running around like he owned the world. He’s traveled, he’s been all over the place. He’s been able to see a lot of things and do a lot of things and accomplished a lot in a short amount of time.

Christine DeFrancesco, Director

H

e was the first senior who got into the school of his dreams. And when we would talk after he left, he seemed to really like it there. He didn’t belong in Huntley, Illinois. Josh was bigger than that. Not to say that Huntley is bad and Josh is good or that Josh is bad and Huntley is good. It’s just that Josh’s personality was too big for this place, this town, this school, this middle school where we reward people for being in the box and being like everyone else. He was never going to be everyone else, even if he wanted to I don’t think he could’ve.

I think there had been a lot of healing, but for some of those people who he didn’t have that healing with, they ended up taking his death really hard. It was like ‘oh now I can’t fix that relationship.’ You only have so much time to fix a relationship before that person either falls out of your life or they die.

He was out of this place for 18 months doing fine so it could have been something completely out of this town and place. It was important that he was a part of this community and this school.

He was never on a sport team nor terribly popular, but his life affected people.The amount of people at his wake, yes some of it was family and friends of his brothers but many many of these people traveled distances to be there.

I know that people were astounded by his talents. One of the things that always impressed me about Josh was that he was resilient. He didn’t let anyone stop him. It didn’t ever stop him from doing what he wanted to do.

He spoke a couple different languages. [On the stage] he was a creative guy and he didn’t need a whole lot of hand holding. He could keep a person’s attention, disappear, or claim the spotlight if he needed to do that. He made big choices, he wasn’t afraid to embody a person no matter who that person was. Male, female, old, young , he was able to personify them and tell their story. That was a big thing with Josh, [he could] be honest and authentic about [a] story because he had his stories too, as we all do. He was smart and he cared. He cared deeply for people who were marginalized. He cared for the person who was mocked or made fun of or had a disability. He was very protective of them which I remember a lot.

22 THE VOICE NOVEMBER 2018

He was in a great place. In fact when I heard about him dying, I panicked and I went through my phone making sure I didn’t miss a text message. The last communication that we had been a couple months earlier because he had gotten a callback from an off broadway show [I said,] ‘I’m so excited for you Josh, I’m really proud of you.’ Which I am really glad that is the last communication that we had. He was off doing his thing, which is where he belonged.

It rocked us. It was the first person we have lost as far as this community. We don’t really know the details nor do we want to, it’s not any of our business.

My phone was binging that day with alumni making sure I knew and that I was okay, people asking me to make sense of things. We didn’t have school on Monday, it was a long weekend, so by the time we got to school on Tuesday, I had gotten through it and I was ready to help the kids. On Thursday we got the information about the funeral- the visitation would be the next day. His father asked us to prepare something which we did and that hit them- that this is real there is a finality to it. Someone said ‘It’s weird we’re all in the same place again,’ and that’s what happens for funerals and weddings. That’s how life is, people get together for things that are very sad and for things that are very happy. He was 19 years old and he was fearless with a lot of things and I guess he couldn’t beat this.

It is possible to get out of those dark places, sometimes it’s just about an easy medication and sometimes it’s about therapy or sometimes it’s about just being a teenager and being sad. The world is a sad place sometimes and people aren’t as kind as they could be sometimes and sometimes it’s just the way the chemicals are wired in your mind. But you guys right now are in a building full of adults who want nothing more than to help you get to be an adult. This is the last time in your life this is going to happen because we leave and a lot of times there’s not all of those people looking over your shoulder. That can be overwhelming but we have to figure out how to get people connected to what they need. Being an adult is hard but it’s also super super super awesome so we gotta get there first. Don’t give up. Josh had an amazing future in front of him with amazing opportunities, he just didn’t trust it. And that’s the real tragedy, he could’ve gotten through it and looked back like ‘that wasn’t so bad,’ but for whatever reason he couldn’t.

Sophie Calderone, friend

H

e was very passionate and emotionally involved in everything he did. He was going to go for what he wanted to go for; he never held back. His mental health and his struggles did play a huge part in who he was, his history with trauma. All of that is bound to contribute to who you are, but nonetheless he always tried to get past it and to try hard in school and in his work in theatre. He wanted to bring light to wherever he went. He was determined to change things in the ways that he saw positive.

You never know what anyone is going through, but I think the most important thing is keeping in touch with the people you value the most, making sure they’re okay every once in a while. Everyone can put on a good face, but if you want to be able to make that difference, show them that people do care and that life is worth living.

Bad things happen in life but Josh was finally free from high school. He could finally be the person he really wanted to be and pursue his dream. I don’t know what kind of toll moving to New York took on him, I knew he had gone through a lot when he was here. But he was involved and awake. It made him happy to be himself and it was the best time to be around him when he was doing what he loved because it brought out his best self.

The first thing I did when I found out about his death was scream at the top of my lungs because I didn’t know what to do in that situation. I am young, I haven’t dealt with any major grief like that in my life. I was having a very hard time with it and I couldn’t stop thinking about him. Everyone was like, ‘if you need someone I am here.’ It meant the world to me but also you can’t treat people like your grief counselor. I have been able to find more peace in my heart and it wasn’t easy and HUNTLEYVOICE.COM 23

still isn’t easy. I see him in little memories and references and on social media, it still breaks my heart. It’s only been about a month and it’s not easy for any of us but I think we can all find peace eventually.

Josh from the very beginning has gone through extended amounts of bullying and harassment from his peers. It sucked because it was even within the theater community, a place where he thought he could get away from everything. His mom left when we were just turning 16 and that played a big part in his mental health. It is losing a part of your family, someone who raised you, no matter what kind of person she was, which was not a good person, it still is heartbreaking to go through that. There’s also the huge sexuality thing which plays a big

into people’s mental health struggles.

I just want people to know that even if in the end you weren’t close to Josh anymore or you feel that you didn’t always get along, you still have the right to mourn the loss of someone you know. It’s necessary to learn from your mistakes because it’s no ones fault that this happened because at the end of the day it is what happens in your mind that makes you go there, but there are still things that we can all do. I want everyone to know that, while we can’t do anything now to bring back Josh, we can do this for other people to keep them here and to honor Josh.

We can bring to the world what he would have wanted.

Kyle Sanders, friend

lot. When he came back for summer and winter break we would hang out all the time. He would stay with me sometimes. He was my best friend, who I didn’t talk to enough. It was just really sad didn’t know him as well from when I was young. I did not know him a lot when he was bullied. He also was not that open to me when the news got to me because I hadn’t spoken to him in a couple of weeks and it was just really hard to hear. about it. He thought that being bullied was something that he The day before he didn’t answer my Skype call. He literally always needed to deal with, he needed to get it over with either him does; he always answers his messages. This was Friday, October 5. and his bully or with himself. If he ever spoke about being bullied We called him twice and he didn’t answer so we called his brother, with me it usually was in a past tense. He never wanted me to feel Zachariah and at this point we didn’t know bad for him. In his year and a half of college, he anything. didn’t have any issues. He knew everybody and [On the day I found out,] my friend called he was having a good time. From what I’ve heard me and I was in a really bad mood, and I from what everyone’s heard, he was bullied in a remember I tried to hang up on her because homophobic incident recently. He would be like I just wanted to be mad, but I accidentally ‘oh this kid called me a f*ggot.’ I knew vaguely clicked the wrong button. I pick up the phone about this, but he would never go into it with me. and I’m just like ‘hey girl’, and shes like ‘Kyle He thought the best thing to do was be nice to the you need to sit down.’ And I’m like “what are bully. Having someone bully him for being gay afyou talking about are you messing with me” ter being out and proud for so long was a huge toll. and she was like ‘no like Kyle, Josh is dead.’

From my relationship with him I think the And my life crumbled into pieces because underlying issue to to his suicide was his untreated I was like ‘damn, my best friend is f*cking mental illness. Everyone can be super super nice dead.’ to you, and you can have everything going for you, To me it seems like he was dealing with a you can live the greatest life, but still be broken.

Mental illness is a very personal thing and I know it was for Joshua. really big change in his life and he had unmedicated bipolar and he was using these drugs to cope with it but it wasn’t working because I’m very open about my mental illness, and I definitely hope that that’s not something you can easily track like a doctor can. Like my this is something people can gain from this. The biggest thing we doctor can track my Lexapro and if its not working he can up my have to learn about Joshua’s death is that we need to teach people that their issues, their mental health issues, are a valid and physical dosage but he can’t just go to his dealer and be like ‘hey my anxiety is getting worse can you give me something harder.’ I definitely issue in your brain. It’s not your fault and it’s not just you being a think that he and I are in a similar situation where we have a potenp*ssy, and it’s not something you can just get over, but it does get better. If your leg is hurting you go to the doctor, it’s the same with tially deadly mental illness that can make you want to kill yourself. I have depression. I’ve been there and now I’m medicated because my you mind. If you’re hurting, go to the doctor.

The end goal is that you need to trust someone to help. If you no- mom understood my depression. She helped me drop out of school and she understood that I had to get on the right medicine. I no tice someone that’s maybe going through something like I was, or Joshua was, it spirals. If you see something, f*cking say something. longer feel the need to kill myself.

I definitely kind of have survivor’s guilt in the way that I feel we He was always very articulate with his problems and especially are two kids that came from the same town and had almost the with me because I had these same problems. When I had these exact same opportunities, but because I got medicated and you problems I would go to him and be like my ‘depression makes it didn’t get the medicine you needed you ended up dead and I’m here hard to get out of bed in the morning’ and ‘school makes my anxiety really bad.’ He was always the one who walked me through these talking to the school newspaper about what happened. This can go one of two ways. So it’s like, you know, a disaster could happen or kinds of things. He was kind of the same as me, or so I thought. you can end up here.

I thought that if he were to ever get to a bad place like that he I think that suicide, drug abuse, and mental health definitely need would have called me and he would have told me and I would have to be talked about more. I look back on it now and am like what known and I would have been able to help but it’s just we’ll never could the teachers had done differently. It’s not the teachers fault know where he truly was at this moment. but I think that every school needs to be more open about teaching I definitely do think that Joshua was my best friend. His senior about mental illnesses. year and my sophomore year we both left school. He moved to Joshua was loved.

New York and I didn’t get to talk to him as much. We Facetimed a

I

“I think that suicide, drug abuse, and mental health definitely need to be talked about more.”

24 THE VOICE NOVEMBER 2018

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A&E Film

‘Millenium’ series haunts readers and viewers New movie will add to suspense

M

By Skylar Sharkey

Murder. Sadism. Suicide. Rape. Human nature at its absolute worst. All are ordinary occurrences in the world of “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo,” written by Stieg Larsson, the first book in the widely popular “Millenium” series.

“The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo”’s focal point is the 40-year-old disappearance of Harriet Vanger, a descendent of one of the richest families in Sweden. Mikael Blomkvist, an exiled journalist battling a libel conviction after attempting to expose a corrupt financier, is the first hired to investigate the mystery by Harriet Vanger’s uncle, Henrik Vanger.

Though you may be prompted to believe that Harriet Vanger is the main female focus of the book, you would be wrong. It is the antihero Lisbeth Salander, 24-year-old hacker prodigy who is hired to assist Blomkvist in the investigation, who really fascinates readers. Her aggressive temper, quick wit, and outright hatred towards men provides an engrossing perspective into the culture throughout Sweden.

What really fascinated me about this series was the in-depth and honest approach it took to the subject of sexual assault. Lisbeth herself is sexually assaulted, and it is later revealed towards the end of the book that Harriet Vanger was sexually abused by her father and brother. Larsson explores the psychology behind sexual assault, from both the victim and the attacker’s point of view, which gives readers a 26 THE VOICE NOVEMBER 2018

From “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo” Facebook Actress Rooney Mara and actor Daniel Craig from “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo”

interesting perspective into the twisted sexual politics of the book.

“The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo” was also an Oscar nominated movie that was released in 2011, directed by David Fincher. Mikael Blomkvist was played by Daniel Craig and Lisbeth Salander was played by Rooney Mara.

Mara’s portrayal of Salander is remarkable; her depiction of Lisbeth is as equally mesmerizing as it is repelling. She manages to portray both Salander’s youth as well as her cold-hearted competence within one scene. Mara’s characterization of Salander is much more convoluted and damaged than the typical hero we find in today’s blockbusters.

Though there were some changes made between the screenplay and the book, the plot changes made to the movie are barely noticeable. The book was written so meticulously that if Fincher had decided to include more detail it would have gone past its 2 hour and 38 minute length.

Both the book and the movie do not tiptoe around the brutality and gruesome pattern of crime within the Vanger family. The family tree includes rapists and murderers, and at every twist and turn Salander and Blomkvist encounter another form of emotional or physical torture dueled out by one of the misogynistic patriarchs of the Vanger family.

From “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo” Facebook “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo” movie cover

follows a much more diverse and complicated plotline than the previous installment. Salander and her sometimes-sidekick Blomkvist find themselves ensnared in a conflict between a genius computer scientist, the Swedish Police, the Russian Mob, etc.

The plot comes off as implausible at points, but it is the unlikely chemistry between Salander and Blomkvist that keeps readers coming back. The momentum of the fast moving actions scenes allows readers to power through the more dubious passages.

The trailer for the movie adaptation of “The Girl in the Spider’s Web” was released June 7. The movie’s focus seems to be straying slightly from that of the book; Salander seems to be caught up in a conspiracy orchestrated by her sister, Camilla (Sylvia Hoeks).

In the trailer, Salander is described as “the writer of wrongs, the girl who hurts men who hurt women,” and it is pretty safe to say that this description is spot on. Salander is Stockholm’s personal avenger, punishing misogynistic men who have abused their power and their privileges.

The movie seems to solely focus on Salander alone rather than Salander and Blomkvist as partners. This was a sound decision made by Alvarez; viewers are tired of seeing the stereotypical Caucasian male save the day, and I’m right there among the audience, tossing the popcorn.

What I’m really hoping of this new movie is that Foy stays true to Lisbeth’s character; an angry, cynical young women who takes no prisoners. It is easy for movie adaptations to get caught up in the special effects and glitzy cast that the book lacked, but in the end what really makes a good movie how captivating the characters are to audiences.

In the end, no matter how well “The Girl in the Spider’s Web” does in theaters, viewers can look forward to another nail-biting adventure with the enigmatic Lisbeth Salander, as well as a dynamic view of misogynism in the 21st century. Salander will leave her mark on you, and she will stick with you as one of the most compelling characters you’ve had yet to see.

From “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo” Facebook Cast at “The Girl with the Spider’s Web” premiere

From “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo” Facebook

By the time the credits roll, or the last few pages of the book have been turned, the gruesome mystery surrounding the Vanger family is fading from memory. But it is Lisbeth Salander, in all of her cynical glory, who sticks with “Millenium” fans until the end.

The second installment of the “Millenium” series, “The Girl in the Spider’s Web,” is to be released as a film Nov. 9.

Fans of the cast of the first movie will be disappointed to hear that the new director, Fede Alvarez, has decided he wanted to “find his own Lisbeth” as well as other cast members for the second installment of the franchise.

Salander is now portrayed by Claire Foy (from The Crown) and Blomkvist is played by Sverrir Gudnason.

Though Mara gained quite a following after her portrayal of Salander in the first movie, it is likely that fans will not be let down by Foy. Foy’s remarkable portrayal of Queen Elizabeth lll in “The Crown” foreshadows a promising performance in this next installment.

The book “The Girl in the Spider’s Web,” written by David Lagercrantz,

New “The Girl in the Spider’s Web” movie cover HUNTLEYVOICE.COM 27

A&E Film

Halloween has never looked spookier

killing spree journey. After the first film, many other directors wanted to continue on what Carpenter started. So 40 years later, new “Halloween” movies are still being created. In the most recent 2018 film, there is so much suspense and just like all the other previous films, we are never shown

By Riyana Walker his face and we never know the ending.

Horror film director David Green got There have been various “Halloween” super spooky this Halloween. He recently movies since the original; more than we made a new “Halloween” movie based on can count on one had. The story behind the Michael Myers story which happens to the movies and the reasoning for why they be a tale as old as time. The original film have continued on for so long is simply was released in 1978 and in the 40 years because we can never be sure about how since, many spin-off movies have been creor what happend. Each director has been ated. Green’s film happens to be the latest. leaving us in suspense since 1978, and that I’m sure you all know the story of Michael is what keeps the movies successful.

Myers, a deranged man who finds his love According to reviews, the new “Hallowfor murder and in his early adolescent een” movie is doing well. years. In the original film released in 1978 “Halloween largely wipes the slate clean Meyers murders his teenage sister at just 6 after decades of disappointing sequels, years old. ignoring increasingly elaborate mythology The director of the very first “Halin favor of basic - yet still effective - ingreloween” was John Carpenter. Although dients,” Rotten Tomatoes said.

Carpenter has worked with various film They have an average rating of 6.8 out of genres, he is most commonly known for 10 stars and the audience had a 75 percent his work with horror, action, and science liking rate. fiction films of the 1970s and ‘80s.

“It’s been 40 years since Laurie Strode In the 1978 film, Meyers escaped captivsurvived a vicious attack from crazed ity on Halloween night to continue on his

H

killer Michael Myers on Halloween night.

Locked up in an institution, Myers manages to escape when his bus transfer goes horribly wrong. Laurie now faces a terrifying showdown when the masked madman returns to Haddonfield, Ill -- but this time, she’s ready for him,” Critics said, leaving us in suspense and wanting to see the movie.

The whole concept of Michael Myers has continuously grown scarier. In the previous films, Myers’ plot has been to escape and kill and he has never seemed to fail or complete the tasks that he has set out. In the end of every movie we the audience are always left wondering and thinking of thousands and thousands of scenarios about what happened and how the story actually ended. But as directors that is their main job: to engage, inspire and raise questions.

In the end of the newest “Halloween,” there were so many questions to be asked.

But the way the producers and directors structured the movie and the different scenes that he walked us through was truly understandable and artistic in a way. The fact that he set the scene for us and still gave parts of the original plot all while adding some humor in there was amazing.

From IMDb New “Halloween” movie 2018

28 THE VOICE NOVEMBER 2018

A&E Video Games

Bethesda plans to release an arena where players can go and face off against each other.

Players who still want to play by themselves, it is not necessary to team up with others. There are many advantages to playing with others though. Caps, the currency in the game, are shared among squad members, making it much easier to get money.

It is also not necessary to stay together as a team. The map is so massive most teams usually split up and explore. If there is another team that wants to fight, a new area with good loot, or a horde of difficult enemies players can use the fast travel feature to group up.

The game can be preordered on PC, Xbox, and PlayStation 4. The beta testing From “Fallout” Facebook does carry over to release so players characters and bases will not be deleted. BethesSnapshot of “Fallout 76” da also announced that there will be no micro-transactions affecting the gameplay.

The micro-transactions will only be used to The system makes it so that the first

By Trevor Wolinsky purchase cosmetics. attack from another player will only inflict Players who never played a Fallout game Todd Howard, director and executive before, “Fallout 76” can be very unforgiving producer at Bethesda Game Studios, is back minimal damage. The player then decides at times. It is very easy to go hungry and deat it again with one of the most anticipated if they want to shoot back, which after the first bullet is fired back full damage is rehydrated if the player is not careful. Most of games of the year “Fallout 76.” The game sumed, or if they do not want to fight back the time food and water found is spoiled or is to be released Nov. 15 and is Bethesda and minimal damage continues. contaminated with some sort of radiation.

Game Studios’ first online multiplayer If you are killed without fighting back, This makes boiling water and cooking food game. which takes a very long time due to minvery important.

“Fallout 76” is a prequel to the previous imal damage, the attacker will be marked Eating contaminated food or being Fallout games. The game is set in the year as a “wanted murderer.” This means their exposed to too much radiation can give the 2102, 25 years after nuclear fallout. player a massive array of diseases. Laying The user plays as a resident of the famous location will be shown to everyone on the map with a bounty on their head. on beds on the ground to sleep also lead to Vault 76, which was a fallout shelter built in The game’s graphics are breathtaking. high chance of diseases like “swamp itch” West Virginia. The player exits the vault on On PC, players who can play on ultra high which greatly reduces agility making mov“Reclamation Day” in order to re-colonize graphics settings will be able to see detail ing a nightmare.

Earth. The game allows the player to be in a of individual leaves on trees.

The beautiful Overall “Fallout 76” is an excellent party with up to three other players. scenery in the Appalachia setting is so imaddition to the Fallout franchise. The game The game is also one of the most contromersive it is easy to forget you are playing keeps all of the amazing features of previous versial in the franchise. As it is the first in a game. games and adds even more. It appeals to the franchise due to it being the first in its While player vs. player combat is an asthose who want to play alone, with friends, series to be only online. pect to “Fallout 76” it is not the main focus. or meet people in the game and join their After the announcement that the game The world map is massive and in most areas squad. would be only online multiplayer, a petition running into other players is not very comPlayers who were worried about the game was created by fans to include a single-playmon.

For the most part during lower levels being only online will be satisfied to know er game mode that received several thouplayer interaction is fairly friendly. that “Fallout 76” combines the best of both sand signatures within a day.

Most players were helpful in offering worlds. With so much to do in the game One exciting feature of the game is the advice and in crowded areas helped with there is the potential for countless hours of anti-griefing system. intense combat.

The times when player vs. fun. From building a base, to fighting other “You can’t be harassed by somebody who player combat ensued, it was consensual players, to to fighting massive bosses, and just keeps chasing you around the world between both groups using the proximity even playing in a band, “Fallout 76” leaves and keeps killing you over and over again; chat feature of the game. the player with a massive variety to keep the game literally doesn’t allow that to hapFor those who enjoy the player vs. player occupied and makes it difficult to put the pen to you,” Bethesda’s Pete Hines said. combat, data mining has discovered that game down.

New addition to Bethesda franchise

T

HUNTLEYVOICE.COM 29

humans of huntley

“People look up to a famous person, but I always admired my dad. He’s warrior like and is always doing something. There will come a day where he will need to go back to Colombia. My parents have asked me if I was capable of staying here by myself. They haven’t had it easy and do it all so I have a better future. I see myself in the military. My mom says it’s dangerous, but my dad supports me. When he was little, he thought in joining the military. I know they won’t stay here forever. One day we’ll need to seperate.”

<<Alguna gente admira una person famosa, pero yo siempre admire a mi papa. El es muy guerrero y nunca se queda quieto. Va a llegar un día donde el se va a tener que devolver a Colombia. Mi padres me han preguntado si soy capaz de quedarme aquí solo.

A ellos no les a tocado fácil y todo lo hacen para que yo tenga un mejor futuro. Me veo en el army. Mi mama dice que es muy peligroso, pero mi papá me apoya. Mi papa, cuando era chiquito, tambien tenia pensado ser militar. Se que no quieren quedarse aquí por siempre. Algun dia nos vamos a tener que separar.>> - Santiago Fierro, sophomore -

interviewed by sara vanegas // photographed by arianna sánchez

“I helped start this program called NAMI. It’s NAMI Youth Group, which helps people who have mental roadblocks. We’re balancing each other, helping one another, and not judging one another.

We wanted to make this club where people could come together and form unity.”

“I have a sensory disorder, and people thought it was autism. The thing about me is that I am outgoing, and my disorder doesn’t necessarily hold me down. I have more control over it, but I know the fears and stress of dealing with it. My friend dealt with anxiety, so we worked together and made this group. It’s such a huge thing for me. I just love being a leader, leading others to become their own type of leader, because everyone has their own type of leadership qualities.”

- Blake kellinger, junior interviewed by mady borst // photographed by arianna sánchez

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• boys v bowling @ plainfield north invite, 9:00 a.m.

• girls v dance @ andrew hs invite, 9:00 a.m.

• girls jv dance @ andrew hs invite, 9:00 a.m.

• jv basketball @ dundeecrown, 2:30 p.m.

• girls v basketball @ dundeecrown, 4:30 p.m.

saturday, nov. 24 • boys v swimming @ imsa, 5:00 p.m.

• boys jv swimming @ imsa, 5:00 p.m.

• girls jv basketball @ carygrove, 5:30 p.m.

• boys v wrestling @ carygrove, 6:00 p.m.

• girls v basketball @ carygrove, 7:00 p.m.

32 THE VOICE NOVEMBER 2018

Sports Poms

S.E. Laput Kim

Dance to Success. Four guys join the Huntley Poms team

T

By Danielle Rhody The students crammed in Raider Nathing. It wasn’t just like pom-poms, or tion, patiently waiting during halftime in ballet or lyrical.” the first football game of the season. As Torres confirmed this belief when he the dance team walks out to the center of explained his doubts on trying out for a the field, some students notice that there historically girls’ team. is something different about the JV team “At first I didn’t really want to, because this year. As the team waits for their mu- of the idea of being a guy on a girls team sic, they realize that there are two boys was like, what are my friends going to standing in formation. say, and just in general what are people The team’s two guy going to think,” Tormembers, freshman res said. “Then when I “Just go in and Brandon Torres and heard one of my other show them what sophomore Nasim friends who also went Hasan, are the first you’ve got. Go to to the studio with me two guys to be apart is going to be trying your full potential. out, I thought, if he’s of the Red Raiders’ Poms team. The JV Show them what doing it, I will too.”

Poms coach, Kristin The girls on the team you can do.”

Maggiore, had an idea were very excited that on why they were there were now guys there had not been on the team as well.

KYLE ADAMS guys on the team “They could not wait before this year. to have guys on the “I think we used to be more known as team because there is something about the Poms team, and then in the last cou- the way that they dance that the judges ple years we became more of a competi- love. It’s just new and different. There tive dance team,” Maggiore said. “We do aren’t a lot of teams with guys on it, so a lot of hip-hop, and then we got second it’s fun seeing them do the routines.” at state. I think we became more of a Maggiore said.

33 THE VOICE NOVEMBER 2018

As Torres continues to get closer to the team, he feels like it is a family.

“It’s pretty much like a family. You argue here and there, you correct each other, but they also help you through bad times. They are there to help you forget anything you want to.” Torres said.

Hasan and Torres have already influenced other guys to tryout as well.

Seniors Kevin and Kyle Adams recently tried out for the team during the tryouts for the competitive season.

“In the past years, I only thought that the varsity poms team was only for girls.

Then this year I saw the two boys, Nasim and Brandon, and they were really good.

I was like, why don’t Kyle and I try out.

Then we tried out, and ended up making it.” Kevin said.

Kevin and Kyle found out that they had made the team through an email.

“I was in second period math, and I was checking my email when I was doing my homework, and I saw the email from my coach that said congratulations, you made the team. I literally yelled to my classmate, ‘I just made the varsity poms team’.” Kevin said.

“To be honest, I was speechless. I had no idea that I would make the team. I was shocked.” Kyle said.

Even though Kevin and Kyle have only had a few practices, they are feel apart of the team.

“We know the routine. There were a few changes here and there, so everything was going to be overwhelming at first, but when we keep practicing and get the routine down we will be fine,” Kyle said.

To other students who may be in similar circumstances as these guys, the three guys offers their advice.

“Feel confident because there will always be people who will hate on you because they’re jealous or for whatever reason,” Torres said.

“Just go in and show them what you’ve got,” Kyle said. “Go to your full potential.

Show them what you can do.”

“Don’t think too much about it,” Kevin said. “Just have fun. Live in the moment.”

Sports Football

More Than Just a Game. Senior Nolan Engmann reflects on what he is thankful for

I

By Riley Murphy

In the locker room, he begins the ritual of getting ready for the big Friday night game. He puts on the series of heavy pads that will protect him from the hard-hitting blows of the other players, and pulls his jersey over his head, yanking it down forcefully to fit over his now enormous body.

He bends down to lace up his cleats, tightening them more and more until his foot is almost unable to move from their position. As the locker doors begin to slam shut, the locks left hanging and rattling in their place, and his teammates begin walking out to the field, he looks down at his wrist and reads the letters that he has there every night: 4CP. not truly discover his passion for the He pushes his helmet down over his sport until fifth grade, when he met head and the world becomes mute. the man who shaped who he is today.

He jogs out onto the field and with “I got blessed with this really good each step he coach named remembers “He had a really positive Coach Porter whom he’s and he was impact on my life and fighting for. an awesome Nolan Entaught me a lot about not guy. He gmann first me only playing the game, but made discovered love football football myself and who I’ve got to and I’ve been when he playing it be and what I can be.” was in third ever since,” and fourth Engmann NOLAN ENGMANN grade when said. his parents From fifth signed him up for flag football, in grade to senior year, Engmann has order to get him out of the house and carried with him what coach Porter away from the video games. Yet he did 34 THE VOICE NOVEMBER 2018

has taught him about not only football, but life too.

“He made me want to keep playing sports because of coaches like him,” Engmann said. “He had a really positive impact on my life and taught me a lot about not only playing the game, but myself and who I’ve got to be and what I can be.”

Unfortunately coach Porter passed away in February of 2017 due to a brain tumor that had spread to his lungs. He had been battling it for a long time, but eventually the tumor became too much for him.

Engmann still remembers coach Porter not only through the relationship and memories they had together, but through the sport itself. Every Friday

Sports Football something right but if one person really good job of reaching out to the messes up, it could ruin everything,” sophomore and the freshmen,” coach Engmann said. “So you have to have a Danekas Gibson said. “And with that, really good bond with your teammates he’s always really positive and always and a lot of trust with each other to building them up.” play football and be good at it. And I Over his many years of being on the love building that trust and that family field, Engmann has been able to build with my teammates.” strong relationships and bonds with And it’s pretty obvious that he loves his fellow teammates. Even when building those relationships too. On facing the stress and difficulties of high any average day, you can see Engmann school, he knows that he can come to walking down the hall stopping to talk his team mates for virtually anything. to his teammates and close friends.

“They’re my number one friends to go Yet he was not always like this: the to for anything really,” Engmann said. smiling, carefree, and energetic foot“They care for me a lot not only as a ball player. In fact, football gave him player or a teammate, but they care for the confidence to become the person me about how I’m personally doing at he is today. home and we can come to each other “When I met Nolan he was not the for anything we need honestly.” most confiIn the end dent person, when the “A lot of times I think of and I don’t stadium him and what he would think that lights are was neceswant me to do and I know shut off nd sarily unique jerseys are he would want me to keep hung up, to football,” coach going and be the best per- he’s still very Courtsey of N. Engmann S. Laput Benjamin much thankson I can be.”

Salomon ful for what night before heading out onto the said.

“I think football, and field, he looks at his wrist band and I saw that NOLAN ENGMANN Huntley, has reads 4CP, which stands for for coach extending given him.

Porter: the person whom he is playing into other “It [Huntley] has really given me a for. aspects of his life and when he was place to call home and it’s made me “I’m definitely most thankful for feel that this is how home should feel having Coach Porter in my life. He has able to achieve things on the football field, I saw that personal confidence like,” Engmann said. been the most influential person in my and self-esteem grow and reach into And more importantly he is grateful life and he’s been a great help to me other areas of his life. ” for the man who started him on this in my life,” Engmann said. “He’s been Football has given him an opportunity path in the first place. a great person to me and I’ll never to make long-lasting friends and forev“I know he [coach Porter] is in a better forget what he did for me.” er-lasting bonds.

On and off the field, place now and that even though he’s Even though Porter is no longer with he utilizes his position on the football not here with me. I know he’s still Engmann physically, he still carries team to make everyone feel welcomed watching and he would want me to the love and appreciation of the sport and supported. continue on and do great things,” Enthat Porter passed down to him.

“Maybe the most important rule for gmann said. “A lot of times I think of “Football, I really like because it’s a player or a coach to have is buildhim and what he would want me to do really a team game. With football, ing relationships with the people and I know he would want me to keep every person on the field could do you are around, and Nolan does a going and be the best person I can be.”

HUNTLEYVOICE.COM 35

Huntley at a Glance

Volleyball Senior Night 2019 The Huntley volleyball team on Senior Night. Senior Loren Alberts getting ready to serve against Harvest Christian. The Red Raiders continued their added to their 18-game win streak. They went on to win regionals, their third in a row, but ended up losing at sectional finals Oct. 31.

-Danielle Rhody Photograph by: Ariana Sanchez

Editorial

A Letter from the Editors Moving forward

It was 7:30 p.m. on a school night when I climbed out of my car at DeFiore Funeral Home. I was talking on the phone with a man I had only briefly met once or twice before; he was directing me towards the flower room where the kind lady at the funeral home said Josh’s picture would be.

After a moment of hesitation, I opened the door to find a room the size of a small shed. The only light was streaming in through the cracked blinds in the corner of the room.

“Yeah, the picture is here,” I said, even though I hadn’t yet checked to see if the frame laying flat on the back table was the right one. I just knew. “Thank you Mr. Szeszol,” I said and hung up the phone.

It took me a moment before I allowed myself walk over to the table. I wasn’t sure what was stopping me but it was easier to avoid reality when it wasn’t staring me in the face.

I was never extremely close with Joshua Szeszol, but we had hung out together a few times through mutual friends and larger groups. He had taught some of the dancing in the first musical I participated in in high school and helped me find costume pieces for when I played the Bird Woman in “Mary Poppins.” I had done a few shows with him and his exuberance was always something I thought was special. He was a person that existed in my world. At one point in time, we talked, we laughed and shared moments together regardless of how close we were.

I’m sure this was the case for many people. We weren’t all his best friend. For the majority of us, he was likely a stranger; for the people in the theatre community he was at least an acquaintance.

He performed on our stage, he walked our halls, he sat in our classrooms. He walked across NIU’s stage at graduation and threw his cap into the air just like the rest of the Class of 2017. Even if you didn’t know him personally, he went through the same day-to-day cycle we all do at Huntley High School and left his own little imprint on our community.

Joshua had been out of Huntley for almost a year and a half near the time of his passing and as much as we talked 38 THE VOICE NOVEMBER 2018

with his close friends and family, and the people who he interacted with on a day-to-day basis, we still didn’t, and maybe never will, know for sure what lead up to the end of his life.

For us students who knew him, it has been more than difficult. He was a friend, a warrior for the underdog despite often being the underdog himself. If you knew Josh, you knew he was fiercely complex and imperfect. He didn’t always make the right choices. He struggled with bipolar disorder from a young age. He spoke with a stutter for much of his childhood and endured bullying because of it. The list goes on. No box in the world could hold all the things that made up his intricacies and that made it difficult to truly understand him.

Still, you knew he was passionate. He loved culture, language, and good food. He loved the stage, art, and the drama. He was intelligent, curious, and very much ahead of his time.

He was loud and brash and spoke his mind. There’s no denying that his personality was a lot to handle, but he took it in stride. He was expressive in his fashion, his humor and words. His brain moved faster than his mouth had time to speak- though it tried hard to keep up. The honesty was refreshing in a society that needed a taste of the truth.

If he knew someone was being mistreated, he said what what needed to be said. He himself knew what it was like to be treated differently and did everything he could to protect those who were victims.

When I first heard that Joshua had passed, I was struggling to figure out why I was so upset. Of course I was upset; someone I knew and cared about was now gone. But I didn’t know what about it was hitting me the most. For some reason, I was concerned about being sad for the wrong reason.

I was angry, sorry, heartbroken. What I realized was

“Whether you were his best friend or not, you are allowed to mourn.”

Editorial

that I viewed Josh as somewhat of an icon. There was something about his existence that made me feel like if a person like him could thrive and be so unphased by the hate and discrimination, there was hope. There was a way that those who struggle with mental illness, being LGBTQ+ and a million other things could find acceptance and peace within themselves. He stood for so much, he represented so much and losing him felt like we had lost some kind of battle against everything that was unjust and wrong.

Us theatre kids are a family. We all influence each other, nurture each other and help each other grow. We worked together so closely and put effort into each other.

We lost a member that day.

There is never a good reason for a funeral home to be filled with a bunch of kids, yet that’s what happened. A 19-year-old should not be dead and a parent should not have to out live his child.

I felt guilt. Why didn’t I comment on that post he made three days ago? What if that would have helped him? But of course, it wasn’t me not commenting on some post that ultimately lead to his death. I found that to be the most common human reaction. Everyone felt guilt. Why didn’t I keep in touch with him when he was in New York? Why didn’t I try to call him again?

No one can change what they did or what they didn’t do and there’s no use dwelling on the past. We also can’t dictate how we mourn. Whether you were his best friend or not, whether you called him or commented on the post or not you are allowed to mourn.

As painful as it is, we cannot peer into his memories and understand what was going on in his head on October 6th or find out what really happened. We go through the stages of grief and continue doing as the living do.

We educate our families, our friends and most importantly our youth. We tell them about mental health and we don’t fear having conversation about the things that make us appear weak or emotional. We realize that mental illness is treatable just like a broken bone and it requires therapy, maybe medicine and patience to heal. We talk about responsible drug use- what is really okay and what is not. We talk about the importance of speaking up about

feelings of worthlessness because it’s something almost everyone experiences. We start all of these conversations from a younger age because by the time I hit 8th grade I knew more friends than I could count on one hand that could have used the help. We love our friends fervidly as well as those we hate.

On the Monday before Joshua passed, he was a victim of a hate crime.

They threw his things down the stairs and called him hateful and derogatory terms. Joshua forgave them. In return he gave them nothing but kindness and I hope we can all do the same.

Once a person is gone, there’s nothing left to do except reach out to our loved ones who we haven’t talked to and love the ones who we haven’t yet loved. This article is for the living. Josh is gone, victims of suicide are gone, it is what we do now that defines us. We can’t change our relationships with Josh now. Forgive and forget. We can’t help our differences and there’s nothing progressive about holding grudges. It is how we treat others from this point forward. Normalize mental health conversations, show compassion for others, take care of yourself, and your loved ones. Just as Josh was, be passionate, be inspiring.

Josh was loved, you are loved.

“No box in the world could hold all the things that made up his intricacies and that made it difficult to truly understand him.”

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onelastvoice Margie Brand SUBSTITUTE TEACHER, BEEN TEACHING FOR 10 YEARS, RETIRED AP LIT TEACHER

Have you ever thought about writing a book?

How long have you taught?

What is your favorite movie?

You’ll probably be surprised, I retired after 10 years. I had six kids and I took care of them and subbed in Florida, Miami and Gainesville, also Southern Illinois, I started full time in 2005.

What inspired you to start teaching?

I always wanted to be a teacher, as a kid we would play school, and my favorite position was head of the class.

If you weren’t a teacher what do you think you’d be doing?

Of course.

[The]Princess Bride, it is the best movie of all the time. It’s funny, it’s satire, it’s true love. I usually read the paper before I see a movie so I know what to expect. For this movie, my husband took me and I didn’t read anything about it, so I went in with no expectations and now it’s my favorite movie. My kids would go around the house saying lines from it.

What is your favorite place you’ve traveled to?

I enjoyed traveling to Ireland, the scenery is gorgeous, the history, and I have ancestors from Ireland.

The people are wonderful, very kind very friendly.

Cartographer, I really like maps.

Maybe science, like a rocket scienWhere is your dream vacation? tist. A travel writer.

I want to go to Scotland because I How have students changed since also have Scottish ancestry. you started teaching?

If you look at different places, I taught in miami, which is a big city, where you have big city kids.

Then Southern Illinois, farming communities, where you have farming kids. So, there was a difference between the city kids and the farm kids in the way they approach school. I’m thinking years ago though, and I don’t see much difference. They still have the same tendencies. In Alaska I taught Native Americans and explain to them what fireflies were because they don’t have them there. So regionally, there are differences.

What is your favorite book genre?

Historical fiction. That’s where I learn my history. You learn a lot.

Interviewed by Austin Stade// Photo by A. Sanchez