T
h
e
L
a
k
e
F
o
r
e
s
t
A
c
a
S P E C TAT O R 1500 WEST KENNEDY ROAD, LAKE FOREST, IL 60045
VOLUME 97 NUMBER 3
Featured Stories
d
e
m
y
DECEMBER 10, 2018
inCommon captivates LFA commmunity
By Mia Walvoord Managing Editor of A&E
NEWS
College advice: To ED or to not ED? page 2
OP-ED
Homework over Thanksgiving page 3 ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Top 10 holiday songs ranked
page 5 FEATURES
Holiday toy review
Ever since its first televised airing on October 25th, the LFA community has been enraptured by the inCommon film, Global Generation, produced by Academy alumnus, Mike Leonard, and Mary Kay Wall. The documentary was filmed on campus last year and continued into the first few weeks of this school year. Many students and teachers were featured in recorded interviews. They covered a variety of topics including reflections on their time at LFA and how the school’s diversity can serve as a model for other areas of the world. The interviews often touched on the concepts of hope and positivity looking towards the future. The October 22nd viewing of the documentary hosted at LFA drew many students and faculty alike who had been excitedly awaiting the chance to see themselves and their peers up on the big screen. “I feel like the narrative was pretty balanced…it was a little bit of everyone, and I think that there was not one person who dominated it so to say, but it is definitely true that it was a subject of conversation with a lot of my friends,” said junior Michael Lentskevich, who was featured in the documentary. LFA served as a vehicle to express the international and diverse perspectives of the rising group of young people of-
Photo courtesy of PBS inCommon with Mike Leonard: Global Generation, created by Mike Leonard, features students and faculty of the LFA community who share how the LFA environment has shaped their lives.
ten dubbed the “global generation.” Even now, the film comes up often and has helped shape students’ understanding of LFA as an institution and how it fits into the rest of the world in a more global context. “I think it helped people to see different aspects of the community that they’ve never seen before, and it helped people understand different cultures and how diversity contributes to LFA being a strong academic place,” expressed junior Giselle Anan, one of the many members of the community who attended the showing in Cressey. The documentary has inspired the LFA community to show gratitude for their opportunity while also spreading the message of the importance of multicultural pluralism and embracing diversity, promoted by LFA across televisions around the world. “For LFA, the message of it [the doc-
umentary] is to not take for granted what we have here, and cherish the everyday moments that this diversity provides,” explained Lentskevich, “and for the world community to not be afraid of the differences among us, but instead find what those can teach you about your own life, which I think is a very important message.” Last year, there was hardly a day when Leonard and Wall were not seen filming, making conversation with faculty, and talking to students. Their faces will once again be seen around school as early as December 3rd, which is when, according to Chris Tennyson, they will continue their work on campus. They will be filming another documentary in their inCommon series at LFA. This December date marks their first meeting with LFA students who wish to be part of the process.
turned out in what was the highest turnout by percentage since at least 1970, and the first time midterm turnout broke 100 million, according to The New York Times. As for Lake Forest Academy, the school wasn’t immune to the election buzz. In fact, LFA played a role in turning out the vote with numerous signs posted around the school encouraging voting. Even some LFA seniors who turned eighteen before the election were able to vote. “I did vote. I voted because I wanted to, and because it is important to participate in such events,” said Liam Larsen, a Lake Forest Academy senior. Much of the excitement was a result of the United States’ current political climate. Highly polarized sides and strong, and in many cases controversial, rhetoric from Democrats and Republicans alike fired up the base of both parties. In addition, high-profile events cast in political overtones, such as a migrant caravan headed for the U.S. border and the Kavanaugh hearings, made Americans feel that their votes were more important than ever
so that their voices needed to be heard. “Voting is very important; it is the backbone of our country. Voting in elections is how you as a citizen make sure that your views are represented in our government. I think there was a lot more emphasis on voting and surrounding the election, particularly for a midterm. You can’t force anyone to vote, but it is important to remind people that they have the option to vote and that they should take advantage of it,” said Larsen These divisions were confirmed as the House of Representatives and the Senate swung opposites ways on election night, with the Democrats taking over the House, and the Republicans keeping and making gains on their majority in the Senate. In the end though, regardless of the outcome, it was an event to remember for those members of the Lake Forest Academy community who got the chance to vote and make their voices heard in the political spectrum for the first time. “Being able to vote for the first time [was] a memorable occasion,” concluded Larsen.
Midterm elections: An event to remember By Parker Amoroso Managing Editor of Features
page 7 SPORTS
New coach for Girls Prep Hockey page 10 GLOBAL
The 2018 midterm elections were one of the most talked about and prevalent midterm elections in American history, as Americans all around the country headed to the polls in unprecedented numbers. Typical numbers for registered voter turnout in midterm elections hover around 40 percent; however, this November, around 48% of registered voters
JSU supports victims of synagogue shooting
page 11
Photo courtesy of Creative Commons Signs around even the school remind students to vote in recent elections.
THE SPECTATOR
News
2
DECEMBER 10, 2018
College advice: to ED or not to ED By Kiki Hood Manging Editor of Production The looming November 1st deadline is the scariest thing about Halloween for high school seniors. Although deadlines are different from student to student, depending on how they approach their application and which schools they are applying to, November 1st is the deadline that is stamped in everyone’s mind. For a lot of schools, it is the Early Decision and Early Action deadline. Early Decision (ED): A student can only submit ONE application of this type because it is binding. If students are accepted under this type of application, then they must go to that school. Early Action (EA): A student can submit any number of this type of application if the school offers it. Students find out in December whether or not they were accepted, but they aren’t obligated to go. It depends on the school if it decides to offer one, both, or neither option. “LFA-wise, we have 49 ED applications in this year’s class of 112 seniors. Last year we had 57 students apply ED, and their class size was 118,” said Mr. Ben Wetherbee, one of LFA’s college counselors. “[ED has] accelerated the process,” said Wetherbee. “Seniors have walked into the decision way earlier.” “I ED’d to Bryn Mawr College. It was fifty-fifty for me. I knew I wanted to get it done with, to know where I was going by the end of the first semester. Plus I visited and fell in love with it. I knew it was the place for me. You should only apply ED if you have that feeling. I did
feel a little pressure from my parents because I would have a better chance of getting in,” said Lilah Roth, a senior. But why add this additional stress to the process? “Schools are more willing to compromise on the profile of a student knowing that they’re going to enroll if they admit them,” said Wetherbee. Meaning that those students who might not have the best grades or test scores, can still be admitted to selective schools because the schools want to increase their yield — the number of students who are admitted to an institution who then decide to enroll. “Amherst admitted 34% of the students who applied Early Decision and only 12% of those who applied Regular Decision, Colby admitted 39% ED compared to 14% RD, Duke 25% ED compared to 8% RD, and Northwestern 27% ED compared to 7% RD,” Wetherbee stated.
Early Action doesn’t have the same benefit of a higher acceptance rate, but students do still find out and start comparing financial plans earlier. So who benefits from Early Decision? In the end, LFA students and other high schoolers attending college prep schools do. “At the typical private school or prosperous suburban public high school, one counselor may serve forty to sixty students. At Redlands High, the public high school I attended in southern California, each counselor is responsible for several hundred students. Rich and poor students alike may be free to benefit from today’s ED racket— but only the rich are likely to have heard of it,” wrote James Fallow in The Atlantic. “Early Decision is a “necessary evil.” In its faults, it forces students to make decisions earlier than they otherwise would have to, both about the college they want to attend, and what they potentially want
The Common Application selection box where students shoose their admission plan
Photo by Kiki Hood
to study. It also influences a student’s bargaining power, as students are unable to compare and contrast competing offers of scholarship and financial aid. But it is necessary. Serving as a college enrollment tool, colleges use Early Decision to better help meet and predict enrollment goals,” stated Mr. Wetherbee. Though the college counseling office hopes that the earlier deadline doesn’t affect the overall high school experience at LFA, there are still underclassmen who already have college as an extra weight on their minds. Wetherbee has four pieces of advice for underclassmen. Classroom. Classroom. Classroom. Take on appropriate rigor, and do as well as you can in the classes you’re taking--NOTHING can impact your process more than your classroom performance. Be authentic. Pursue authentic interests, inside or outside of LFA. Impact. Touting a leadership title used to be the standard, now they’re a dime a dozen. What impact can you make? How much initiative did you take? Impact is measured less in title and more in action. Engage. Engage in our community (whether that’s on student council, dorm council, proctor, prefect, house captain, moral courage discussion leader, Caxy Key or peer mentor, engagement can come in many shapes and forms at LFA.) When all is said in done, the biggest piece of advice is to remember that the college process is different for every individual. As the college counseling office always says, “It’s a match to be made, not a prize to be won.”
A major opportunity for Advanced Journalism
By Ben Seabolt News Editor
LFA students was headed by ESPN writer,
Stoneman Douglas High School, the site of
ron trying to assist with the safety of the
Wayne Drehs. A winner of multiple Emmy
the Parkland shooting in February of 2018.
situation, and then pulling Mrs. MacAyeal
Awards and featured on ESPN’s front
Despite a ballroom that was equipped to
in through the crowd once her foot was in
The 2018 National High School Jour-
page multiple times, Dreh’s message was
fit around 400, exceptionally engaged stu-
the door. The lecture that the advisors of
nalism Convention is a once-in-a-lifetime
about the preparation for a story. One in-
dents crowed to get in, and the event coor-
Parkland’s newspaper and yearbook deliv-
chance for many high school journalists,
teresting idea he had was having an unre-
dinators were momentarily overwhelmed
ered was haunting and inspiring, and will
and for the first time, LFA’s Advanced Jour-
corded meeting with one’s subject before-
by the interest in just this one single pre-
be shared with all LFA journalism students
nalism class attended. Held in Chicago this
hand--a unique idea for a better interview.
sentation. Ms. Byron and Mrs. MacAyeal
during this year so that they can also benefit
year, the convention saw prestigious jour-
Other LFA students attended lessons
made it in the door by means of Ms. By-
from the experience of those who attended.
nalism programs fly their students in from
such as Protecting Student Press Free-
all over the country. Renowned speakers
dom, “How to Write Stories with Impact,”
and the heads of many respected journal-
and “Telling Big Stories That Matter,” all
ism programs, at both the collegiate and
relevant topics in the journalism world
high school level, imparted their knowl-
today. Each of these lessons was taught
edge to the new generation of journalists.
by someone very involved in the field.
The convention took place at the Hy-
As for Advanced Journalism students,
att Regency, with seemingly endless
this once-in-a-lifetime trip was an en-
ballrooms and conference rooms. Oc-
lightening experience. The conference
curring on both Friday and Saturday, the
not only helped to better everyone’s
convention had numerous sessions ev-
writing for the paper, but it also showed
ery hour from 9am to 3pm. Most rooms
what a career in journalism might look
were filled to maximum capacity with
like, as many of the speakers were
eager students and teachers, making even
professional journalists in the field.
hard to find a seat in many of the lectures.
A significant highlight of the conference
A personal favorite session of several
was a presentation by faculty from Marjory
Photo by Amanda Byron Journalism students waiting to hear the newspaper and yearbook advisors of Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School talk about their students’ experience of the Parkland shooting.
THE SPECTATOR
Opinion
DECEMBER 10,2018
3
No homework over Thanksgiving Break? By Nate Koh News Editor Homework over Thanksgiving Break is one of the many academic boogeymen that haunt the students of Lake Forest Academy. The practice of assigning homework over Thanksgiving Break is extremely unpopular amongst students for a variety of reasons. Many feel that giving homework undermines the idea of longer breaks. While school policy mandates that there is to be no homework assigned over break, long term assignments that were assigned prior and due after do not have this stipulation applied to them. However, students often feel that they are at a disadvantage if they don’t work on these assignments over break. The idea of letting students get ahead in their schoolwork over long breaks is a good one, but only if done correctly. Making students feel like they are pressured into working over break, adds mental strain that is wholly unnecessary and counterproductive. Thanksgiving Break is a time to celebrate family and de-stress before the hectic finals season begins, and when students have long-term assignments over break, it takes away from time that could be spent with relatives. While this practice may allow teachers to fit more ma-
terial into their curriculum, the pressure to decide between family and school creates significant amounts of preventable stress. Boarders, who have not seen their families in weeks should not have to choose between spending time with them or doing their schoolwork. For many, it is the only time that they will be able to be with their families before winter break begins. “As students, we work so hard throughout the year, and you would expect them to give us a break during our break, but instead they prolong our work to stretch over our rest time,” said All School President Teni Bakare. This sentiment is echoed by students, who find that teachers are often willing to assign longer-term assignments over Thanksgiving Break, much to the frustration of the student body. Stress is already a constant factor among students, and giving students work over Thanksgiving Break only increases the number of stressors that students are exposed to. This stress can decrease the productivity of students, and can slow down or prevent students from using the recovery period that Thanksgiving Break offers. Homework over Thanksgiving Break is unfortunately common, but is certainly disliked by the vast majority of students.
Photo by Nate Koh
Inquiring Photographer: Senior, Teni Bakare, contemplating why she has long-term homework over break.
Do you think Healthy Choices Day was an effective use of your time?
“Yes I think it was because the junior topic of consent is a very serious issue that is important to learn about in today’s society.” -Thomas Leonetti ‘20
“I think certain aspects of it were good but that the video at the end of the day only showed us the negatives of social media without really focusing on solutions.” -James Christoph ‘22
“I think to some extent it was a good use of our time because the topics are important to understand but don’t think that using three hours of the school day is the most effective way to do it.” -Sophie Waimon ‘20
“Yes, I think it was effective because I wouldn’t have known how to do CPR without it.” -Ryerson Birkerts ‘19
“It wasn’t a good use of my time during my sophomore and junior years, but I think that this one was one of the best days of the year so far.” -Joel Hwang ‘19
“I think it was an interesting use of our time, and that it was good to try something new, even if some of the class teachings were already known.” -Jackson George ‘21
THE SPECTATOR 4
Opinion and Editorial
DECEMBER 10, 2018
Stress from school and college apps: Too much for seniors around Nov 1st? By John Kuhns Sports Editor The end of October is a fairly relaxing time for many students at Lake Forest Academy. Progress reports are past and most fall sports are wrapping up-- an automatic boost to students’ free time. For seniors, however, the stress of the college process reaches its peak during this period. Unfortunately, many tests, quizzes and even major projects can be on the agenda for students during this time. Early Decision and Early Action applications are due between November 1st and 15th, the only major deadline dates that occur during non-vacation periods. The other most popular time, January 1st, is pillowed in between Winter Break, allowing students to focus on college instead of having to juggle essays alongside their classes. It is fairly obvious that early November is a hectic time for senior students. Though more people have free time after sports close, academics still stand strong as a heavy commitment throughout the two weeks. Students that are expecting to submit multiple applications need the extra period of time after school to focus on the select few essays that require a
lot of writing and a lot of thought. It is a universal conclusion that any lag in tests and quizzes would be greatly appreciated. Though this may seem like a one-sided deal for students, teachers swamped with recommendations can benefit just as much from the extra time. Grading tests and quizzes while writing multiple unique recommendations is a workload similar in bulk to that of students with essays and other academic commitments. On top of this, many teachers and faculty on campus have families and coaching positions that require time after school, leaving only a sliver of time that can be used for writing. The real challenge is to contrive a system that would fairly benefit both sides of the equation, while acknowledging the fact that a “no homework policy” just isn’t possible. For the sake of lessening stress, the week leading up to November 1st should be a time where tests, projects and quizzes aren’t a focus for senior students. Teachers can plan their courses to allot extra time at the end of October that can be made up in the less stressful weeks of mid-November. All together, the college process is daunting, especially during the initial due dates. By lessening classwork in the week prior to the first, the anxiety associated
Photo by John Kuhns Senior Ben Sebolt taking a test around November 1st, the Common Application deadline for many colleges.
with applications is lifted enough to provide a little breathing room. The period shouldn’t, and can’t be a total stoppage of
academics, yet both teachers and students can benefit from a lack of overwhelming commitments at an already hectic time.
Everyone has an equal responsibility to keep the Student Union clean By Tyler Medvec Editor-in-Chief
Courtesy of LFA Prefects This is just one example of how messy the Student Union can get on a normal school day.
In its short three years of existence at Lake Forest Academy, the Student Union has become a centerpiece of both the campus and student life, as it offers a place to eat, study, or just relax during a long day of projects, tests, and quizzes. Even with its importance in the community, however, the Student Union is continually left dirty and messy due to certain members of the LFA community. Messy plates are left sitting on tables, empty cups pile up beside couches, and spills are frequently left uncleaned, as students either forget to clean up or simply don’t. Although this may seem like a minor issue for some students, I think that the problem can say a lot about the community. This is a place where respect is essential, whether it be between students and their peers, students and their teachers, or students and their school. The lack of respect for this truly special place on campus reflects poorly upon the entire community, even if it is only a few students causing the mess. After hearing announcements about these
messes throughout the year, every year since the building’s opening, I would expect students to recognize the problem and work to solve it. This is a community that frequently comes together to discuss large and global issues, so can it really be this hard for us to work towards the simple act of cleaning up our messes from lunch? It certainly shouldn’t be. It isn’t difficult to take the time to walk your plate and cup the 50 feet from your table to the dishwashing counter, and it certainly won’t be the reason you’re late for your next class. Regardless of whether you’re a student, a teacher, or a visitor to the community, you will most likely spend at least some of your day inside the Student Union. This really is not a hard problem to solve; it simply takes participation from each member of the community. Take the fifteen seconds to clean up your table, and remind your friends to do so as well, and the messes that are so frequently projected at Morning Meeting alongside an announcement can be solved. Respect the Student Union as you would any other restaurant or building in general, and don’t be the reason that another mess is left to be cleaned up by someone else.
THE SPECTATOR
Arts and Entertainment The top ten holiday songs to check out this year DECEMBER 10, 2018
The following list was compiled by Adriana Rivera of her ten favorite songs to check out this holiday season. The list is not in ranked order.
1. “All I Want for Christmas is You” Mariah Carey
The
W
onderfully ise inter ordsearch
5
Album cover courtesy of The Hit Factory
2. “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” Brenda Lee 3. “Jingle Bell Rock” Daryl Hall & John Oates
CHRISTMAS HOLIDAY LIGHTS SANTA FROST TINSEL Album cover courtesy of U-Watch
4. “Santa Baby” Kaskade ft Jane XØ 5. “Mistletoe” Justin Bieber
ICE MISTLETOE SNOWFLAKE HANUKKAH JOLLY ORNAMENT
9. “Let it Snow” Frank Sinatra 10. “The Chanukah Song” Adam Sandler
Album cover courtesy of Universal Island Records
6. “Santa Tell Me” Ariana Grande 7. “A Holly Jolly Christmas” Burl Ives 8. “Baby It’s Cold Outside” Dean Martin
Album cover courtesy of Warner Bros.
THE SPECTATOR
Centerfold
6
Behind the scenes: Black Friday By Alex Jackson Editor-in-Chief
ited supply of those things that are actually on sale... They are forcing you to sleep out or be the first ones there and be lucky
cans shopped online during Black Friday, totaling sales of around $3.34 billion. “It’s put the pressure on the actual
Thanksgiving is a time for families to come together and be thankful for everything that they have. It is supposed to be a time to rejoice and reconnect despite political or social differences, but with Black Friday on the horizon, how grateful are Americans? According to the American Market Association, Black Friday last year brought in a record $7.9 billion for retailers. In 2016, 99.1 million Americans shopped in-store and 23% of those people camped out to get better spots in line. Those single-day numbers give a surface view of what Black Friday is, but what’s generating them is a little more concerning. Last year, videos of parents trampling other parents for the newest technology and toys circulated the internet. Hundreds of clips of people bashing and shoving other people for inane items created questions surrounding the the eventful day, like: Why is Black Friday so effective? And are the deals as good as they appear? Among other things… “They’re just trying to get customers to the store, and it’s just a big promotional way to do it,” said Economics teacher Matt Vaughn. “They offer huge deals, but most places, what they’ll do is have a very lim-
enough to take advantage of the best deals” To generate such high revenue numbers, stores can only sell a certain few items at a discounted price, and the rest remain at normal price. The thing that often tricks consumers though, is that stores will market Black Friday like all the items are on sale price. In recent years, online shopping has added a new aspect to the Black Friday shopping style. In 2016, 108.5 million Ameri-
walk-in stores to create an even bigger event and to create even bigger deals because online shopping is starting to dominate the market,” explained Vaughn. Many people return to the storefronts every year, sometimes for tradition, sometimes just for the thrill of it. Whatever the reason, Black Friday is on track to for continual growth, both in and out of store as deals become more appealing just a few weeks before the holidays.
Photo courtesy of Creative Commons This is a common scene at many retail outlets during the scramble on Black Friday. Every year, thousands scramble to take advantage of the great savings available.
Why isn’t Thanksgiving Break a break? By Adriana Rivera Managing Editor of Op-Ed
the classroom. Although your Uncle Jim
With the stresses of schoolwork, college
meant no harm and simply was curious
applications, and sports (for those who
about your college process, you can’t
play a winter sport), this can be a diffi-
Turkey, mashed potatoes, family and
help but feel your stomach drop and your
cult time for seniors, so when looking
a week off of school are just a few perks
head go dizzy. The pressure is on. What
forward to the holidays, there’s supposed
of Thanksgiving Break. The break, tak-
was supposed to be a delicious stress-free
to be a time to de-stress from the difficul-
ing place on November 21 until Novem-
meal has now turned into an interrogation.
ties in school. However, when uncle Jim
ber 25th, is a good time for LFA students
For many, this is what Thanksgiving
hits you with twenty different questions
to take a respite from classes and enjoy
looks like. This time of year in which the
about school, it’s impossible to detach
time with friends and family. Given the
holiday takes place is a very stressful time
from school and those responsibilities.
length of the break, typically day stu-
for many seniors. With finals being just a
Everyone needs a break, and Thanks-
dents will host boarders who live too
few weeks away, the tests and quizzes are
giving serves that purpose - taking a break
far to go home. This time allows many
piled on to make up the pre-exam grades.
from everyday responsibilities. So the
students to relax and for some, expe-
In addition, the early admission/decision
next time Uncle Jim asks about school,
rience their first American Thanksgiv-
deadline has just passed, and the regular
smile politely and change the subject.
ing. But despite the delicious food and
decision deadline is quickly approaching.
time away from classes, Thanksgiving is not always all that it’s made up to be.
DECEMBER 10, 2018
2018 h toy re By Jack Selati and Charlie Shattock Staff Writers
Tic Tac Tongue - YULO This game is fun for the entire family, an interactive always knew you could be. It is incredibly easy to se this holiday season.
Jack Jack Attacks Talking Action Figure - Disney This action figure will be a great present this holiday ure is incredibly interactive; when you touch his tum These include lighting on fire, laser eyes, electric sp crazy abilities, but he comes with his own pet racoo
Super Sense Spiderman - Marvel Excited for Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse? We Over a foot tall, this Spiderman comes equipped w thorn in the side of parents, it’s sure to be a hit with
Here is how Thanksgiving really goes down: You finally find a spot at the table and
Fuzzy Wubble - Wubble A genius spin on the original wubble, this pillow-ball in many different designs ranging from pandas to un
place your plate down to enjoy the Thanksgiving meal your mom has just prepared for everyone. That is until your uncle Jim comes over and asks the question you’ve been dreading all night, “How’s school go-
Black Panther Mask - Hasbro Ever felt the need to become the Black Panther? No mask is made out of the closest thing to vibranium -dream of becoming a marvel superhero this holiday
ing?” You force a smile and give a short response, hoping to change the subject. But without missing a beat, he continues to fire questions at you. “Where have you applied to college?” “Are you sure you want to go that far from home?” “Have you looked at any Ivy League schools?” “What’s your ACT score?” And before you know it, it’s like you’ve never left
Senior Kiki Hood with her family on Thanksgiving.
Photo courtesy of the Hood family
Rocktopus - Fisher-Price This might be the single best toy on sale this holida tons that, when pressed, play a repeating tune of the that can slow down or speed up the melody, turning
THE SPECTATOR DECEMBER 10, 2018
holiday eview
e activity that allows you to become the reptile you et up, and no batteries are needed to have a fun time
y season. The Jack Jack Attacks Talking Action Figmmy he will perform one of his many special abilities. parks, and teleporting. Not only do you get all these on as well.
ell, get your hands on a Super Sense Spiderman toy. with a functional web-shooter. While this may be a the kids.
loon hybrid is comfortable and supportive. Available nicorns, these are kid friendly and fun.
ow you can with the new Black Panther Mask. This - plastic. This will allow you to live out your lifelong season. RIP Stan Lee.
ay season. It features a panel of interchangeable butinstrument depicted on them. It also has two buttons your kid into an ameteur DJ.
Centerfold
7
A look into Harvest Hope
Photo courtesy of lfasmugmug.com Above: Freshman Lily Ainsley talking with a kid from A. J. Katzenmaier Academy during a Fun With Stem session. Below: Junior Elizabeth Campisi helping a kid make a pumpkin stand for Halloween.
By Angelina Chan Staff Writer Among the many activities that LFA does as a community, the Service Learning programs of the Interact Club stand out as some of the best opportunities for students to connect with others outside of our comfort zones. One of those is Harvest Hope, a yearly event in conjunction with North Shore Community Partners, which includes projects both with the kids and the families of A. J. Katzenmaier Academy (AJK) in North Chicago. It includes three main activities: a pancake breakfast, Fun with STEM, and the pop-up grocery store -- all events right before the Thanksgiving holiday break rolls in. Every year, 55-60 student volunteers and 15-20 parent volunteers participate to make Harvest Hope a success. As one of the participants myself, I could see that it really was a fun learning experience for the AJK kids; their excitement and energy helped make it a great experience for everyone. “I think the curiosity these kids show for anything STEM is really fun, and they make learning entertaining and fun,” said
Ms. Sarah Collins, Director of Service Learning and School Counselor, who was in charge of the student volunteers for Harvest Hope. She also mentioned the significance of the LFA students working as mentors and learning from people with vastly different circumstances and perspectives on life. This year’s Fun with STEM was a pumpkin stand activity: using popsicle sticks, plastic lids, straws, paper, and tape, the AJK kids designed and tested a stand that could hold a pumpkin. This tied with the “Engineering” aspect of STEM. It was the most hands-on, and one of the most entertaining, activities of the day, but also the one that required a lot of volunteers to help and guide the kids through each step. However, it was well worth it. Junior Sophie Waimon, the LFA Student Leader of Harvest Hope, agrees. “Just doing the STEM activities of the kids -- it’s just the most fun and you get to help the kids and see them use their creative ability, to make a project,” suggested Waimon. “Their school doesn’t necessarily have a fundamental science program, so by doing the Fun with STEM activity and Harvest Hope, we hope that they get some basis for what the scientific method is or how you
design something.” The third activity, the pop-up grocery store, is especially important, since many of the kids in AJK live in an area of a food desert; there is a lack of fresh foods readily available, or their parents may not have enough time or are unable to purchase goods. As well as LFA’s donated goods (corn, green beans, brownie mix, boxed stuffing, canned fruit, and boxed mac and cheese), Northern Illinois Food Bank donated boxed and canned goods as well as fresh foods, such as meats and vegetables to help the families in need of produce over the holiday. About one in five children in America live in food-insecure households, so there really is a sense of relief “knowing that some of their decisions over the holidays are made a bit easier by two or three extra bags of groceries,” noted Collins. Paired with the STEM enrichment and pancake breakfast, this year’s Harvest Hope was a success, but it wasn’t just with the activities themselves. “The kids just get to have some fun, like building a tower,” observed Waimon, “but hopefully that they take away some scientific reasoning skills and the ability to create these things on their own.”
THE SPECTATOR
Arts and Entertainment
8
DECEMBER 10, 2018
Bingeworthy winter TV and movie viewing By Angelina Chan Managing Photo Editor The Good Place Season 3-premiered September 27th 9/10 The third season of this critically acclaimed sitcom, although overshadowed by the unconventionality of the first two, follows through on the success it promised to be. At first, the season struggled slightly with its new setting on Earth, compared with the world of the Good Place, but manages to find its footing in the witty “Jeremy Bearimy” and “Don’t Let the Good Life Pass You By” that highlight the complexity of philosophy. I also enjoy the character development of “A
Fractured Inheritance”, building off of previous seasons’ focus of wit and humor with serious discussions on ethics and the true meaning of life. The great optimism paired with the constant element of death is a strange--but well-matched--element of the show, with self-referential quips about the ‘system’ and whether our actions matter in the whole scheme of things. Doctor Who Season 11- premiered October 7th 8/10 The first season of the show, headed by showrunner Chris Chibnall, promises to go back to its sci-fi roots while also adding something new. With the first woman as the Doctor (Jodie Whittaker), the central character, the show surprisingly shines in
The staff’s favorite TV shows/movies this holiday season.
the historical episodes like “Rosa”, a poignant account of Rosa Parks’ 1955 protest against segregation, and “Demons of the Punjab,” a fascinating take on Partition of India in 1947. However, a promising start wasn’t enough to compensate for a few disappointing episodes such as “Arachnids in the UK” and “The Tsuranga Conundrum,” the lack of two- or three-parter episodes, or even a clear story arc, something that was consistent in the entire history of the show. Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald- premiered November 16th 7.5/10 This second installment of J. K. Rowling’s Fantastic Beasts series had the potential to be an exciting, darker sequel to the original Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them
(which is a not entirely well-thought-out spinoff from the Harry Potter series.) The Crimes of Grindelwald tries to build off of the characters from the previous movie, but fails to establish a greater storyline. There are some bright spots like Leta Lestrange (the most complex of the characters in the movie) and the amazing set design, especially of the French Ministry of Magic. However, there are too many side characters and not enough of the central ones, or even too many “fantastic beasts”, despite its namesake. The supposed plot twist was both at the very end and very rushed, leaving more for the movie after this sequel than actually building more in this series.
Courtesy of Warner Bros., NBC, and BBC
Bohemian Rhapsody will rock you By Lily Drury News Editor
One movie this year that has cre-
a flippant tempo that range from rock to opera to acapella throughout the entirety of the nearly six minute long masterpiece. Queen changed the industry of music
ated quite a buzz is the tribute movie to the infamous British rock band, Queen. It tells the tale of how the band rose to fame, but mainly focuses on the frontman, Freddie Mercury. Freddie Mercury was the sole writer of many of the band’s hits; however, the new film decided to take on the name of one of their most well known songs, “Bohemian Rhapsody”. The song is made up of intricately dark lyrics that are paired with
forever. Nobody believed that they would be able to make a six minute song popular on the radio. The average radio song is about three minutes long, and if an artist creates a song longer than that, there will be a radio mix, or radio cut, that shortens the length, making it more suitable for listeners. Queen was told that they should shorten “Bohemian Rhapsody,” but the band didn’t want to cut it, feeling that the listeners would miss the crucial
Freddie Mercury and fellow members of the band perform.
mood swings of the song if they did so. ally created the now infamous song, They decided to leave the song as it was. “We Will Rock You” with the crowd The song became an instant suc- stomping and clapping along in mind. Freddie Mercury was one of the many cess, like so many of their others that male performers alongside David Bowie would follow. It has become an anthem for so many people all over the world. and Prince, that have influenced generHowever, it wasn’t just Queen’s innate ations to embrace a more feminine side ability to create music that catapulted of style and performing. He was known them into the great success they found. for his eye-catching stage costumes. Even after his passing, he has continIt was the way they were able to perform. A Queen performance was unlike ued to inspire generations young and old any other. Freddie Mercury was able with his willingness to be unabashingly to control huge crowds with seeming- himself. Queen has become a huge part of ly little effort. They created music that many people’s lives, and continues makwas meant to be performed, and actu- ing their mark, even after all these years.
Courtesy of Getty Images
THE SPECTATOR
Sports
DECEMBER 10, 2018
9
Rocky start, but Girls Varsity Basketball ends strong By Audrey McGrail Mananging Editor of News
The week of Thanksgiving, the Caxys played three more games against Antioch High School, Sycamore High School, and
With the start of the winter sports season,
Elk Grove High School. The Caxy’s lost to
the Varsity Girls Basketball team has be-
Sycamore 29 - 58 , but won their last two
gun to prove themselves as a respectable,
games when they beat Antioch 44 - 44 on a
competitive program with hard work and
buzzerbeater by Senior Captain Kelsi Jack-
dedication in the Thanksgiving Vernon
son, and won to Elk Grove 49 - 35 to end
Hills High School Tournament.
the tournament.
The Caxys started off the tournament
It’s important to note that Caxys rarely
(and their season) with a heavy 38-68 loss
play the teams in this tournament in their
to Vernon Hills High School on Monday,
regular season. This is mainly because
November 12.
those who participate in the VHHS tour-
Although it was severe, no loss could
nament are big, public high schools,
dampen the Caxys’ integrity. Two days
with LFA being the smallest of the
later, they were back in the same gym,
five and the only independent, private
but with a new competitor--Lake Forest
school. But that’s why it’s so important for
High School. The long-lasting LFA vs
the Caxys to participate in such a tourna-
LFHS rivalry was ever-present. Last year,
ment.
in the same tournament, the Caxys beat
“It’s a good tournament to immediate-
the Scouts after a very hard fought game.
ly see growth. It forces us to make adjust-
This year, it was, again, a very hard-fought
ments quickly. If we started our season
game-one in which both teams battled until
playing smaller schools, it would allow us
the end. Unfortunately, small mistakes in
to ease back and become overly confident.
the last few minutes of the fourth quarter
The teams in this tournament immediately
eventually lead to a heartbreaking 40 - 41
show us what our weakness are and give
loss.
us a really good idea on how to develop
Even though the LFHS game was a tough loss, it showed much improvement from the Caxys’ defeat on Monday against Vernon Hills High School.
throughout the rest of the season,” remarked Wood. The Caxys have many more games over the next three months, where they will
“Monday being our first game was tough,
continue to learn and grow as players.
but we improved a lot in our game on
If anything, the VHHS Tournament has
Wednesday, and made some really big ad-
shown that the Caxys have real potential
justments… We passed the ball more, had
for the upcoming season.
a lot more patience, and had confidence in
“I think it’s a really good team. But
our teammates, and we were much more
our main thing will be to to work on
aggressive,” remarked Head Coach Erica
our chemistry, communication, and con-
Wood.
fidence in one another,” observed Wood.
Photo by Ani Plambeck Sophmore Zuzanna Pacak passes to freshman Kathryn Githinji in the Thanksgiving Tournament.
New name, high hopes for Girls’ Hockey By Syd Olinger Editor in Chief This winter sports season has invited a new and exciting program and name for the girls’ varsity hockey team. Over the years, girls’ hockey has not had a very strong reputation due to two reasons: The team is no-cut, or in other words, open to anyone who wants to try, and there has never been recruitment for the team. Beginning this year, however, the girls’ varsity team will now be considered Girls’ Prep Hockey. With a new coach, Mr. Tyler Madeley, and new recruits in the coming years, the athletic department is hoping to create a strong team and build the LFA girls’ prep name in the league. “We are trying to position ourselves as a threat in Illinois, so our goal is to, within the next few years, be a legitimate prep team,” stated Madelely. Madeley believes that, as of right now, since the prep team is in its early stages, he will coach with a more defensive focus.
Then as the team grows, they will hopefully become more offensive. Madeley and assistant coach, Ms. Nina Puch, hope to implement more intense practices to improve both endurance and skill with conditioning. Though these practices and off-ice conditioning have helped teammates to bond, the teams on this season’s schedule remain very competitive and difficult. The first few games for LFA have ended with, what would normally be, unfavorable scores, but the coaches are in positive and proud spirits, and players continue to play to the best of their abilities supporting each other in every way. Players keep in mind that every team that has been, and will be played is typically stacked with AAA and AA hockey players, while LFA girls have some players who only put on skates for the first time three weeks ago. “Once were comfortable in our own zone, we can start implementing offensive systems of play and various power play units,” explained Madeley.
Photos by Olivia Fisher Above: Coach Tyler Madeley addreses defensive weaknesses to improve the team. Below: LFA Girls Prep Hockey drills on their defensive formations.
THE SPECTATOR 10
Sports
DECEMBER 10, 2018
From the links to the simulator: A new opportunity for LFA’s golf team By Jared Felitto Sports Editor In the Chicagoland area, golfers across the region have had to put away their clubs during the wintertime until the months of spring. However, members of the LFA community will now have a unique opportunity to keep the rust off for the upcoming season. While renown golf courses in the area such as Conway Farms and Onwentsia are covered with snow, students will now be able to escape the frigid temperatures of Chicago, and take their games inside to a new golf simulator. Students and faculty now have no excuse to not touch up on their game. Thanks in part to a very generous donation, the acquisition of a new golf simulator will certainly improve golf at the academy. According to athletic director Darrin Madeley, he believes that the new simulator will drastically improve the golf program.
“Now students will be able to have a place to practice during poor weather and even in the winter months. Not only is this giving our golf players more reps, but it also acts as a personalized coach to help them improve their game” said Madeley. The simulator allows one to play from
a variety of courses, as well as polish up one’s game at the range and anything in between. With putting games, multiple driving ranges, and a wide variety of courses, from Whistling Straits to Pebble Beach, the simulator gives gold standard features to help develop your game. According to golf coach Jonathan Freeman, he believes that the the new simulator will help develop his players game’s. “I’m floored by how amazing the machine is- the number of courses available, the information it provides about launch angle and swing speed, its truly amazing. The simulator will give our players the ability to sharpen their game during the off season.” said Freemen. In addition to improving the players game, Freemen believes that the new simulator will make the golf program much more attractive. “The simulator will be real boost to our recruiting. I doubt many high schools have the kind of equipment that LFA does. This will definitely help promote our golf program” said Freeman. With the improved athletic facilities at LFA, it was only a matter of time before they started catering to the Golf team. The new golf simulator in action.
Photo by Jared Felitto
Stretching into the new season By Jack Selati Managing Editor of Sports During the winter over 100 students at Lake Forest Academy find themselves either lazily going up to the gym and touching the weights for about ten minutes, or deciding to take a season off instead of doing a P.E. However, this winter there is a third option, one that will simultaneously help students relieve stress and become better athletes. That option is the yoga P.E. The class is taught by Ashley Kolovitz. Kolovitz, who has been practicing yoga for almost nine years, believes it is the best way to relieve stress. “I was looking for something to help relieve stress and anxiety, but also a way to move my body in an easy and gentle way that would feel good,” said Kolovitz. Her yoga P.E. has become very popular, with roughly 20 people participating every Tuesday and Thursday after school. Kolovitz has practiced many different forms of yoga, but believes the one that she is teaching the students of LFA to be her favorite. Kolovitz has been teaching Hatha yoga, which is a basic form of yoga that not only allows those practicing to flow through
very beneficial to the students taking the class. MJ Alexander, a soon to be Division One hockey player has really enjoyed her experience in yoga after school. “It’s helped my days after shcool feel less stressful,” said Alexander. Each time Alexander has attended the yoga P.E, it makes her want to come back even more the next time. Playing a highly competitive sport outside of school such as hockey gives Alexander less time to hang around after school, but yoga is one thing that excites her every Tuesday and Thursday. Kolovitz’s goal for her students is for them to become mindful and present after a hard day of schoolwork, but also to totally relax after tests or simply homework. “Their daily lives can be really stressful,
A group of LFA students trying out the new yoga class.
the movements, but also allows for the participant to meditate during the session “I like yoga that has a more meditative quality to it,” said Kolovitz. Charlie Shattock and I who took the yoga class and certainly agreed with her opin-
Photo by Jack Selati
ion. After completing the strenuous activities before hand, the ending meditation session allowed us to unwind and get in touch with our minds. We both opened our eyes feeling refreshed and relaxed. The meditative quality of yoga has been
they are focusing on getting into the right college and doing well on a test,” said Kolovitz. Kolovitz has brought many methods from teaching inside the classroom to her yoga studio. She offered the class in the fall and winter of this year, and is planning on offering it next year as well. Kolovitz understands that in both areas of focus, you will only get out what you put in, and she tries to explain that to her students inside the classroom and the yoga studio.
THE SPECTATOR DECEMBER 10, 2018
Global Perspectives
JSU supports victims of synagogue shooting
Photo by of Ani Plambeck One team of students playing dodgeball at the Jewish Student Union’s fundraiser. The money raised went to the Tree of Life Congregation.
By Lindsey Pearlman Features Editor October 27, 2018 is a day that will forever be engraved in the minds of individuals across the world. Robert D. Bowers entered the Tree of Life Congregation in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania armed with an AR-15 assault rifle and at least three handguns. He opened fire into the synagogue
killing 11 and ending up with 29 criminal charges, including obstructing the free exercise of religious beliefs and using a firearm to commit murder. He also faces state charges, including 11 counts of criminal homicide, six counts of aggravated assault, and 13 counts of ethnic intimidation. This has not only been considered one of the harshest anti-semitic acts in the United States, having an impact on people from all
over, but this also had a strong impact on the community here at Lake Forest Academy. “The Pittsburgh shooting impacted my life directly because it made me think of my family and what I would do if it was my synagogue.” stated Dylan Kruss, one of the leaders of LFA’s Jewish Student Union. “The fact that anti-semitism still occurs, and that as a species we cannot accept all races, religions, and ethnici-
11 ties into this world, is very upsetting.” Students and faculty in the community are not letting this act go unnoticed. Ms. Amanda Byron, a teacher in the English Department, went on stage during Morning Meeting shortly following the traumatic event. She recited the Mourner’s Kaddish, a traditional prayer in the Jewish culture recited in situations of mourning. Mr. Bill Dolbee, Associate Head of School, also offered a reflective statement. The LFA community was brought together during this event to share their condolences with the victims of the shooting. However, this wasn’t the only act of respect taken by the community. The Jewish Student Union has also taken initiative, making sure that this tragic event doesn’t go unrecognized. Students have been selling “Pittsburg strong” bracelets during lunch periods and hosted a dodgeball tournament that took place in Crown. All the proceeds made through the fundraiser went towards the Tree of Life Congregation. “We really wanted to do everything that we could to help them as much as possible, even if we’re not raising a ton of money, we just wanted to show our support and share our condolences with those directly impacted.” said Jack Selati, one of the leaders of JSU. Although this event was extremely traumatic for individuals both around the world, as well as in our community, LFA took initiative in hopes that a small act could help solve a much larger issue. “The support from the Jewish community and outside the Jewish community has been immense and shows that the world can work together to become stronger,” stated Kruss.
Winter celebrations around the world
By Lilly Drury News Editor
The Winter Holidays are a big part of everyone’s lives. While I’m sure most of us are familiar with celebrations such as Thanksgiving and Christmas, there are many more winter holidays around the world, some related to ones we already know, and others completely different. In Germany, St. Nicholas day is on December sixth, and all the children put their shoes out on their front porch in hopes that St. Nicholas will come and put treats in them. If that child has been bad that year, they can expect coal or twigs inside their shoes. In Mexico, Three Kings Day, or Epiphany, is on January sixth to celebrate the three wise men’s visit to baby Jesus, and to also remember his baptism. Traditionally, Rosca de Reyes (or Kings’ Bread) is baked during this holiday. Hidden within the bread is a “baby Jesus” figurine and whoever finds it in their slice has to make tamales for everyone on the Day of the Candles, which is celebrated on February 2. In Sweden, Saint Lucia’s Day, which is also called the Feast of Saint Lucia, is a Christian holiday that is celebrat-
ed on December thirteenth. There is a candlelit procession to honor St. Lucia, and children in white full length gowns partake in singing songs together. In Japan, Omisoka is a Japanese traditional celebration held on the last day of
the year. It signifies preparing for the new year. It is a tradition to eat soba noodle on this holiday. It is also custom that all the bells in the temples ring out the old year, and must be struck one hundred and eight times. There are one hundred and eight
Bonnou, which is all selfish human desire. It is important to expand your knowledge on the different multicultural holiday celebrations, so you can help those from different countries feel welcomed during these times of thankfulness and togetherness.
Photo courtesy of Mark Kodiak Ukena Members of the community gather at the yearly Lake Forest tree lighting .
THE SPECTATOR 12
Global Perspectives
LFA’s take on the recent Megyn Kelly blackface controversy By Tiffany Filawo Managing Editor of Global Perspectives On the October 23rd segment of the Megyn Kelly Today show, a discussion about Halloween costumes quickly turned into one about race when host, Megyn Kelly, made an appalling comment about how when growing up, blackface was ok. “What is racist? You do get in trouble if you are a white person who puts on blackface for Halloween, or a black person who puts on whiteface for Halloween. Back when I was a kid, that was OK just as long as you were dressing as a character,” commented Kelly. The comment sparked rage among Twitter users where Kelly was was met with many condemnations. Afterward, Kelly got fired for her comment on national television. Her comment showed negligence of consideration for the history of blackface and its negative effect on black people. Her comment has also forced people to remember the history of blackface as was the case for LFA junior, Charnice Hoeginifioh. “In the past, actors would paint their
Photo by Tiffany Filawo Charnice Hoeginifioh holding picture of Al Jolson in blackface; a difficult but necessary acknowledgement of history.
faces black and dress themselves up to portray black people, and they would dance and sing and do shows with it, but always portray black people as very lazy, and I feel like that goes all the way back to the days of slavery,” said Hoeginifioh. The history of blackface in America started with the minstrel shows of the 1830s where white actors used burnt cork and, eventually, black greasepaint to portray black roles. While in blackface, white actors would display their perceptions of black people through exaggerated black physical features, mannerisms, and ways of living, as noted by English teacher, Jamal English. “It was the historical, social, rationalization and the objectification and dismemberment of black identity by making it farce. It was almost like an entertaining dehumanization to rationalize dehumanization,” said English. This mockery of black people soon became the most popular form of entertainment in America. Eventually, in the 1860s when black actors were allowed on the scene, they were also forced to wear blackface. White Americans, especially those in the South, began identifying African Americans with their caricatures in minstrel shows so much so that the blackface caricature, Jump Jim Crow, became the face of Jim Crow Laws, which were laws set in place in the 1870s to segregate blacks and whites in the South. “In the Constitution, African Americans used to be considered three-fifths of a person, which was Americans in power literally saying that they perceived African Americans as inferior, and therefore did not equip them with the agency to represent themselves while af-
fording themselves the agency to represent African Americans,” said English. Although minstrelsy grew less popular in the 1920s, blackface took on a new medium of entertainment--movies. Kelly’s situation has opened up a very well-needed but long-forsaken discussion about the history of blackface and how this lack of discussion has led to current day examples of blackface in cultures around the world. The consequences of not addressing the negative effects of blackface can be seen through the caricatures of Black Pete in the Netherlands, Balthazar in Spain, Haji Firooz in Iran, Golly in Europe and Thailand, Adelaide in Brazil, El Negro Mama in Peru, La Negrita in Venezuela, La Negrita Puloy and Son de Negro in Columbia, the Three Wise Men and black roles in German theater, Ganguro and Gosperats in Japan, Memín Pinguín in Mexico, and people dressed in blackface at the Coon Carnival in South Africa. Blackface has also appeared in skits, ads, and musical acts around the world, and on social media. Some examples are the Dunkin’ Donuts campaign for the new charcoal donut in Thailand, a Lunar New Year skit last year in Beijing, the portrayal of Maikol in a Lunar New Year spread on MBC in South Korea, the Bubble Sisters from South Korea, the “Jackson’ Jive in Australia, a blackface UNICEF campaign in Germany in 2007, and the recent blackfishing scandal of social media influencers, Emma Hallberg, Mika Francis, Jaiden Gumby, Hannah Winifred Tittensor, Mimmi, and Victoria Waldrip. There was also blackface in a performance of Othello at the Venice Theatre.
DECEMBER 10, 2018
Photo by Tiffany Filawo Jamal English holding a picture of Al Jolson in blackface while painfully refelcting on its historical context.
Unfortunately, the list shamefully goes on. Blackface may seem to be a costume for people of other races who wear it, but no race is a costume, especially if that costume is connected to a history of racial discrimination that continues to affect the way a group of people are treated and viewed around the world. Black people are competent to portray themselves in the positive light they are meant to be shown in. The inability to empathize and see the wrong in this shows the true character of the ones who find comfort indulging in an act of hate masked as art, entertainment, and preservation of culture, as noted by English. “When people look at this historically, they see the joke being on the black male identity, but five hundred years from now, I see the joke being on the parenting society that was so arrogant that it thought from one cultural perspective it could dare to articulate better all the perspectives that it had not lived better than those who had lived it,” concluded English.
Latinx reflects on the difficult journey to America By Jasmine Filawo Managing Photo Editor for Digital
The migrant caravan has recently made headlines as immigrants from countries in Central and Latin America, such as Honduras, Guatemala, and El Salvador are fleeing their home countries to reach the US-Mexico border line. The massive increase of violence from gangs, MS-13 and Barridos 18, has urged victims to seek refuge in America to ensure safety for themselves and their familes. Not only do these immigrants face persecution and poverty in their own countries, but their journey to the United States is also difficult. Some of the struggles they have to overcome druing the journey are dehydration, criminal gangs, and loss of family members. In addition to the difficulty of making the arduous journey to the U.S., they are faced with 15,000 troops that President Trump has sent, making it impossible for the refugees to seek asylum in the states. “May God soften Trump’s heart,” stated an immigrant from BBC News. Lake Forest Academy’s members of
Latinx had their own thoughts to share on the matter and the effect it has had on them. Lake Forest Academy’s Modern and Classical Languages Faculty Member and counselor of Latinx, Marianela Gonzalez, was born in Bolivia, but came to America with her parents at 9 months old with a green card. “My parents got lucky...but the first 17 years that they were here, they worked in a factory. Their degrees didn’t count,” said Gonzalez. She further expressed how her parents came to America with no background in English, but that did not stop them from adjusting to the American culture. Her mother was given the opportunity to go back to school and learn English, while her father learned the language by working as a mechanic in a factory. As for Gonzalez and her sister, they learned English by watching tv shows like Sesame Street. LFA senior and leader of Latinx club, Diana Tlaseca ‘19, was born and raised in the U.S., but comes from a Mexican family. Her father came to the United States at the age of four, while her mother
came by plane. Just like the immigrants today, they were seeking a better life. Tlaseca and Gonzalez are not in favor of President Trump’s treatment towards the immigrants, and how he is taking away their opportunity to seek asylum in the U.S. “They are running away from the violence and poverty in their own countries and to be greeted at the border with more violence, is something that’s hard to fathom,” stated Gonzalez. Tlaseca is overall not satisfied with how immigrants are looked at as criminals and people trying to steal jobs. “They are painting them in ways that is completely off,” said Tlaseca. Recently President Trump has responded to this case of the migrant caravan by threatning to close the border between Tijuana, Mexico and San Diego. In addition to the blockage, there has been tear gas thrown at immigrants that were trying to cross the U.S.-Mexican border The overall issue of the migrant caravan does not portray America as holding true to its values as innocent asylum seekers are being blocked from starting a new life
Photo by Jasmine Filawo Senior Diana Tlaseca reads a recent article on the migrant caravan.
in a country that has been the epicenter of multiculturalism and openess to immigrants. Hopefully President Trump and others that are behind these acts will comprehend the sacrifice these immigrants have made in an effort to better their lives.