Munster High School | 8808 Columbia Ave, Munster, IN 46321
Get
Crier
it right
Stories by Ian S. Brundige Editor-in-Chief
T
he rights of students are often seen as different than that of the everyday citizen. With landmark Supreme Court cases like Hazelwood v. Kuhlmeier and Tinker V. Des Moines, the school and courthouse have been entangled throughout the entire twenty-first century. Students ”don’t shed their constitutional rights of speech or expression at the schoolhouse gate.” In 1969 the Supreme court made a landmark decision that students’
Drug Tests
the policy’s purpose
MHS has had its random drug testing policy since the 1989-90 school year. Mr. Morgan Nolan, assistant principal said that the policy was most likely put in place to combat a drug culture throughout the 80’s. However, the only way the school could enforce the policy was testing students in extracurriculars. “(It was) an easy way and the only legal way they could really get after kids for after school activities that weren’t taking place on campus was to hold them accountable about for after school activities that were associated with the school,” Mr. Nolan said. As the policy reaches its 30th year of enactment, it is still important because students participating in extracurriculars create the image of the school, according to Mr. Nolan. “I think it’s important―especially our extracurriculars―become the image of the School Town of Munster,” Mr. Nolan said. “They’re the ones who get the biggest awards, so we want to make sure that those kids who are especially traveling away from the building to represent Munster, and a lot of times they have Munster gear are and are accepting award for Munster, are held to a pretty high standard.” Brianna Plemmons, senior, has been drug tested three times during and junior and senior year. She has parked in the school park-
INSIDE LOOK Students discuss politics | page 5
Indiana Student publication gets censored, run down of student rights in school
symbolic speech should be protected in schools starting with that statement. Today, Mr. Ed Clere, State Representative from New Albany, is working to pass the New Voices Bill in Indiana. “The bar should be high when it comes to limiting student’s rights,” Rep. Clere said. “Student’s rights should not be limited unless the school has a compelling reason based on health or safety or the need to maintain an educational environment.” The newest administrator, Mrs. Valerie Zemaitis, claims she was
HEADQUARTERS Student Services is the center of discipline at MHS.
issue 5 | volume 52 | nov. 15, 2017
aided in her transition to student services by a clear handbook. “I feel like it’s easy, the rules are clearly in the handbook with the consequences,” Mrs. Zemaitis said. “Here’s what you broke, here’s what you get.” Crier is one of the few high school student publications in the state that currently does not experience prior review. “You have to learn how to be able to express yourself and accept different opinions of people,” Mrs. Zemaitis said. “So the more exposure you have to different opinions the better you can approach them.”
photo by Lauren Kozy
ing lot for the past two years. “I get why they have it but at the same time it’s like, get the people who actually do drugs and don’t waste my time and cause me to miss out on school,” Brianna said. This is not uncommon criticism of the policy in MHS and throughout the nation. However, Mr. Nolan believes those problems through the shared information agreement with the police department. “Students are going to make mistakes. We are not trying to sweep anything under the rug but we think that as a town we can punish a student to match the issue much better than the court system can...,” he said. “I hate saying it, a lot of times they don’t even issue what I consider appropriate punishment because they are just overwhelmed with so many more individuals coming in, whereas we can get you some community service, it will be here in town, it will be (the) appropriate amount. We might have you sit out of something that you like, like Marching Band or somethings, and then life goes on.”
UPCOMING Girls’ Basketball against Andrean at home | Friday at 7 P.M. Thanksgiving break | 22-24
Written
responsiblities of student press
At the end of last month, an issue of the Shakedown, a student publication from Plainfield, Indiana, regarding dating advice was published. The 24-page magazine received claims from some critics that it was inappropriate for high school audiences. Their newspaper is now read by their administration before publishing, a process called prior review. The school is able to do this due to Hazelwood V. Kuhlmeir. The New Voices bill being supported by Rep. Ed Clere would prevent this. “I think this legislative initiative would benefit not just student journalists, but all students, the broader school community and community beyond the school because it would allow important topics to be covered and important discussion to go on,” Rep. Clere said. Student publications hold the opportunities to start important conversations in schools, according to Rep. Clere. “Students are more willing to accept information from their peers than from other sources, whether it’s teachers or administrators or others who are attempting to provide information,” he said. “I think that’s especially true when it comes to difficult and sensitive issues. For example, student journalists are uniquely positioned to start meaningful conversations about drug and alcohol abuse, sexual activity and other difficult or sensitive issues.” Currently, Crier is not reviewed prior to printing; however, there is no law ensuring free expression. An environment the previous editor-in-chief of Crier, Jordan Szymanski, class of ‘16, found negatives and positives in. “When I was covering the political things my senior year, it made me more conscious of what I was writing. It didn’t necessarily take away from what I was writing,” Jordan said. “It didn’t make me feel like I wasn’t writing what I wanted to. It just made me realize that there is a consequence to everything I write, whether it’s good or bad. The bad consequences forced me to look at my work through a more critical lens because I knew that they (administration) would be looking at my work from a critical standpoint.” However, administration does not need to be enforcing that pressure, according to Jordan. “That pressure also came from Ms. (Sarah-Anne) Lanman (publication director) or my peers. The idea that because Mr. Wells doesn’t come down and read our paper, we can say whatever we want, that’s not true. We criticize our own work,” she said. However, not all schools have such a trusting rapport between student media and administration. Those are the schools Rep. Clere fights for. Jordan sees the goal of Crier to start the conversations Rep. Clere is referring to. “Crier’s whole job is to make the news― which is this abstract thing of what’s happening―personal and relate it back to each individual student,” Jordan said. “Whether you have that experience or you don’t, because not everyone has the experiences we talk about in the paper but that’s not really the important part. The important part is that you are exposed to those experiences because it will shape you and it will change you.” STUDENT WRITES Collin Garmin, sophmore, reads an issue of Crier on the first day of school.
More about visual expression on page 8
02 news nov. 15, 2017
Practice
makes perfect
Event Elaboration
Story by Alex Koijch Page Editor Speech heads west, just over the border to Illinois to compete in the 38th annual Glenbrooks National Speech and Debate competition, the first national competition of the year. Alejandro Flores, senior, joined speech two years ago. Every year he’s placed in the top five at sectionals, and is hoping to place well again. “What we’re doing for Glenbrooks is leaving the night before, and once we get there we’ll get into our respective areas and just practice, practice, practice, and conclude with a team dinner,” Alejandro said. “Then, the competitions are all day long on Saturday. On Sunday, the event concludes and we find out who placed where.” Alejandro will be presenting his piece over stereotypes in teenage culture at Glenbrooks and is excited about heading to Glenbrooks. “Attending is both an honor and a privilege, as you get the chance to test your skill and mettle against competitors from all across the country,” Alejandro said. Maya Radjenovich, junior, is attending Glenbrooks for the third time and has gotten used to the pace of the event. “Since there is a lot of time between rounds, we really have to spend time together as a team and bond,” Maya said. “However, since it is a national based tournament, it is super nerve wracking as well.” Maya’s speech covers a young, intelligent girl that has autism, who ends up being diagnosed with cancer. “The whole story is just a roller coaster of emotions,” Maya said. “I’m hoping everyone at Glenbrooks thinks the same, but in a more positive way.” Noel Fary, sophomore, will also attend Glenbrooks and has some stress heading into the event. “I want to make sure that at my first national tournament of the year that I succeed, because that could show how I’ll perform for the rest of the year,” Noel said. “I also want other competition to learn who I am.” Noel’s mindset facing the event is the same as it always is, with competition practice being the focus. “I prepare by constantly running my piece in the practice rooms and working with Mr. Mayer (English teacher),” Noel said. This isn’t Noel’s first time competing at Glenbrooks, as last year he failed to qualify past the preliminary rounds for further competition. “My goal this year is to make it to the first round break (the round following preliminaries),” Noel said. “It’s a way to redeem myself, and to help the team.”
Put
to the test
Story by Joe Bermudez Section Cheif Every other year, the schools are closed for elections. This year, the days for elections and the days of the AP exams conflict. Guidance sent a survey to students in AP Psychology, AP Chemistry and AP Spanish to get a sense of how the students taking the exams would be willing to take them on the days the school is closed. “We were just trying to survey kids to see if we could get approval for them to come in that day,” Mrs. Jessica Sanchez, guidance counselor, said. “AP exams are where they are. You can’t take them whenever you want, so if you’re missing the original date, you have to take the late test, but the late test could potentially make kids make up their final exams. We just wanted to see
Both novices, varsity speech members prepare for upcoming competition
There are a wide range of speech events, so that each member of each team has an event in which they can excell. Each event is is unique and different for the others, whether it be on subject matter or format, but they all fall underneath the category of speech. Dramatic Interpretation: focuses on a student’s ability to convey emotion through the use of a dramatic text. Humorous Interpretation: designed to test a student’s comedic skills through script analysis, delivery, timing, and character development. Duo Interpretation: competitors convey emotion and environment through a variety of performance techniques focusing on the relationships and interactions between the characters. Informative Speaking: competitors craft a speech using evidence, logic, and optional visual aids. Extemporaneous Speaking: students are presented with a choice of three questions related to current event, then give a seven-minute speech answering the selected question. Original Oritory: competitors craft an argument using evidence, logic, and emotional appeals. Topics range widely, and may be informative or persuasive in nature. source: speechanddebate.org
Sidenote
Marching Band
What: 4th place at State When: Nov. 4 Marching Band ended their record-breaking season on Nov 4, where the performance of a lifetime earned them fourth place at state. “I think it was really great because during this year we put a lot of effort into our show,” Chloe Moffet, senior, said. “Every year Mr. W (Mr. Brad Winterheimer, Band Director) has ramped up the intensity, the difficulty of music and difficulty of the drill. I think this year is the first year in a long time, since my freshman year, that the underclassmen and freshman really stepped it up.” The band has placed higher and higher as each year has gone by. Relatively new to the competition scene, in their seven years competing, the highest they ever placed at State was sixth, a record they were anxious to beat. “I expected to do very well because I knew the potential of our band,” Chloe said. “I was just so happy when we passed sixth place because that was our freshman year record, I was just beyond happy. Anything beyond sixth just made me so proud of our ensemble and everything.”
Teacher Contracts What: Approval of Teacher Contracts When: Nov. 13 On Monday, the School Board approved the Collective Bargaining Agreement for the 2017-18 school year. The negotiation began Sept. 15 between the Munster Teacher’s Association and the School Town of Munster and closed Nov. 7 after a majority of teachers voted in approval of the proposed contract. The contracts will last a year until renegotiation next fall.
Corrections
photo by Easan Venkat
THINKING OUT LOUD In a speech practice room, Silvia Lombardo, senior, practices her piece. “Being a senior,” Silvia said, “I have been able to help out a lot of our novices. I love working with them because I can help them gain skills they will use throughout their speech career.”
In issue 4 of Crier, in “Sidenote,” the food drive dates were incorrect. On page 3 in “Up for a challenge,” Rachel Lyon’s name was misspelled. On Page 6 in “Hit the ice,” James Bugaski’s name is spelled incorrectly. On page 8, in “State limitations,” 84.7% of students said that they did not think a person with a felony should be able to buy a gun, and 15.3% of students said that they thought that people with a felony should be able to buy a gun.
AP testing schedules, conflicts with other finals, students vote on the timing of AP testing lar to the rest of the student body. if kids were willing to come in when we’re closed.” “I think people don’t want to postpone the Mrs. Sanchez believes the majority voted the way (AP) test and just get they did to avoid conflictit over with,” Aneri ing with their finals. Pick your poison Patel, senior, said. “In “Overall, most kids said When students prefer to take AP Psycology, my opinion, I want they would come in be- Chemistry and Spanish tests to get it over with cause it seems like it because there’s less would cause less impact Take AP test when school time stressing over to their final exams,” Mrs. is closed May 7 or 8 it and I could focus Sanchez said. “If they can’t Take AP test late, on finals after. I’ve alcome in, they can still take during class finals ready taken a few AP the test late, but it could tests and I just want potentially interfere with Will not take AP test to get them over with, their final exams.” and it’s my senior A part of the majority of sources: Guidance survey of 197 students year and by then the the students who voted to on Google Forms sent Oct. 18 ‘senioritis’ will hit so come into school when it is closed, Aneri Patel, senior, said the reason she se- getting it over with and being free after that, I lected that particular option on the survey was simi- think, is the best option.”
87.3%
news 03 nov. 15, 2017
Defending their title
Science Olympiad begins competition season on Nov. 25, prepares for regional tournaments
perform machines from other schools. “This year we have an event called ‘Helicopter’, Page editor and the students have to build a helicopter out of balsa wood. That helicopter has to be powered by After winning the state championship four of a twisted up rubber band,” Mr. Keith Koszut, scithe last five years, Science Olympiad hopes to recence teacher and Science Olympiad head coach, reate their winning streak after losing to Carmel said, “It has certain size restrictions, but it must High School by seven points two years ago. stay in the air longer than other schools, in order Science Olympiad is a science based compefor our team to win that event.” tition that is roughly structured like the Olympic Each student that is in Science Olympiad can games, where there are multiple events. In Scichoose which events and how many they particience Olympiad, there are a total of 23 events rangpate in, in correlation with their interests. ing in multiple sciences, and different methods of “Sometimes there are study events, where you competition. take a test. Others are build Some of the events are somewhat “traditionevents where you build ceral,” such as astronomy, anatomy and physiology, tain things. I participate in the rocks and minerals. For example, in the rocks and events pertaining to herpetolmineral event sometimes a participant is given a ogy, the study of reptiles, and rock sample and would have to identify the rock ecology, the study of the earth, type and answer any given questions. Some of such as tectonic plates,” Emma the events are building based, sometimes stuHand, senior, said, “In the herdents have to build a type of machine that has to petology event, the judges give perform in a certain way, and has to outus pictures of a random reptiles, like lizards and frogs. We have to identify them and then answer questions about them.” d ia p m ly ce O season, Scien In addition to study ew n e th ith W e new events events, there are hands-on fiv s e m o lc e w ics hange of heat odyonuat m engineering based events. xc e e is th Theerm s ic se phys an vent ab vent becau Some choose to particie ys h is p th a o o d d ted to “I chose to ce, so I wan pate in more build events n r, ie io n sc se te ri s, opoulo my favo Konstantin than study events, such li a K t,” n ve ics e as Eli Stricker, junior, who . id sa s estioenrm ation participates in Hovercraft, im st i e i rm e Fermi nQt u F nt. sing F s is differe an eve u Thermodynamics, Misi question tive scale rm la e F re k e in th “I th learning h sion Possible and Experic t a u Z o b ,” a s. g is questions a list of thin mental Design. ot studying of things, n ior said “In ‘Mission Possible,’ n se , g n o ary D le to do a task you have to build this big e ib in s h s c o a P m Missiotnwhere one creates a e device to that has multith ed lik n I e d v e t an an d a build even oblem ple steps to do one task, pr of t lo “Last year I di a s It ha
Story by Mercedez Williams
is event. creativity of th rly Giannini, e that” Kimbe lik I solving, and senior, said. ouse Vehicle hicle using m se Trarepon Mouen e moves a ve he w t an ev joined, and I other people y traps an m t no t said. “It was an even Mella, junior, do this” Allan know how to etolooguyt the study of reptilesisve species, and Herpve nt ab e an t about inva n more did an even r. I was eve “Last year I ce this yea la p wed s o it rr a k n o y to it was herpetolog logy, since junior, to k, e ia rp v e ro H B t u al.” Griffin im excited abo n a f o e st on typ down to ju said.
like a Rube Goldberg machine,” Eli said. Science Olympiad meets everyday after school, in preparation for events. “(MHS) is the defending state champion, and we’ve won the state title four out of the last five years. Let’s be fair, we’re the favorites in this state, but you never know. In any given year there will be a talented group (that) has had a fire lit under them, and is like ‘we’re going for it,’” Mr. Koszut, said. “That happened a couple years ago, when Carmel High School beat us in state, by seven points. That was nothing. The year after that, we beat them by 100, and revenge was taken.”
photo by Easan Venkat
BUILDING MOMENTUM During Science Olympiad practice, Scott Kenning, senior designs and builds a hovercraft for the Hovercraft event. “There are a lot of people who have questions and clarifications for their events, so I try my best to answer those and provide them with techniques they can use to get to their goal,” Scott said.
photo by Kess Vaitkus illustrations by Gavin Hamilton
A place
for all
Story by Alyssa Bass Page editor
Civics Club is a place where anyone, regardless of their political affiliation, can get involved and participate “Civics Club is about expanding your knowledge and experiences regarding citizenship. We will be having guests to talk about public service, participate in community service activities, and provide opportunities to develop better citizenship skills,” Ms. Kristen Szafasz, social studies teacher, said. Civics Club hosts speakers to come and talk about things like local government and the importance of civil engineering and different
Civics Club holds first meeting since call-out, discusses the purpose of the club departments at the local level. Civics Club is planning on doing other organizational activities like Community Outreach, and possibly having a philanthropic event so they can donate to local charities and help the community. Community Outreach is an organization that provides services to people who might not have access to those services. “We focus on engaging with government on a local, state, and federal level,” Connor Meyer, president of Civics Club, said. “We want people to learn more about those who make and control policies, also to be more knowledgeable and more into the political sphere as we can.” One of the current issues that Civics Club is talking about is the DOC 200 program. The DOC
200 program that is open to any student that is willing to get involved, it is a list of 200 things that would be filling your role as a citizen in society. If you complete the 200, things then you would get a medallion to wear at graduation. “It’s a very open club, just walk into a meeting. We won’t turn anyone away just because they’re democrats or republicans,” Connor said, “There are number classes that are important to take in high school, but the one thing that affects everyone is the government that governs you,” Connor said.
Next Meeting Today afterschool in Mr. Fortner’s room, N190
04 speakout nov. 15, 2017
Coming
forward
Column by Carey Scott People Editor
cartoon by Gavin Hamilton
UNDER CONSTRUCTION Although the construction of new buildings could be seen as detrimental to our town, what do the buildings really mean for Munster? In the long run they work towards an overall improvement of our town, so that one day it may be more than just a “highway town”.
Editorial
Growing pains In the midst of Centennial Village construction, Munster seems to be experiencing growing pains; some residents want to retain the small suburban charm while others are excited to create a new downtown. Since the development was first announced, the communitiy has discussed The building the pros and cons of growth. Now that Cenntenial Vilof Centennial lage is becoming a realiVilliage is good ty, it is time to acknowlege for Munster in the fact that with all the rethe long run cent development in Munster, there is still no central meeting place. And the reason for that is clear. While high schoolers enjoy hanging out at Dunkin’ Donuts, Starbucks or Meatheads, there is nothing else to do in Munster besides eat. With the development of an actual downtown area, what Centennial Village will hopefully be, the community will have a reason to leave their house other than for dinner. The addition of Centennial Village will also allow events already taking place in the park, like the summer farmers market, to grow and
Our take
Crier
Crier, Munster High School’s official student newspaper, may be reached at 8808 Columbia Ave, Munster, IN 46321, phone 219836-3200, Ext. 3443; Fax: 219-836-3202. Crier is published through the Honors Newspaper Advanced Writing and Editing classes and extra-curricular involvement. •The newspaper serves as a public forum and two-way communication for the school and community. •Crier is a source of information, entertainment, advertising and opinion for the student body, faculty, administration and community •Published material will stress objective reporting except on the editorial page where opinion writing will be featured. All published material will stress accuracy, integrity, honesty, responsibility, objectivity, fairness and independence. Corrections, when necessary, will be published on page 2. Opinions expressed in the newspaper do not necessarily reflect those of the School Town of Munster, faculty or administration. Letters to the editor and reader suggestions are welcomed, but should be limited to 250 words. All letters must be signed and should be given directly to any staff member or delivered to the
attract more vendors and customers. While Centennial Park is already an appealing town center, the reality is that a playground and golf course are not enough to create a populated downtown area where community members frequently socialize. Some students have claimed that Munster does not need to grow because if there is anything we want to do we can just go into the city. Just because we are near Chicago, that should not stop Munster from being more than an isolated suburb. Communities like Valparaiso and Evanston have thriving downtown areas with a variety of shops that serve a number of diverse communities. Obviously, we do not have the population of Evanston or Valparaiso, but there are still 22,825 people in Munster looking to spend their money. They should be able to spend it on more than a Chipotle Burrito Bowl. The town needs to welcome more diverse business than just restaurants, maybe a retail store or a movie theater. Munster has the ability to go from drive-by “highway town,” to involved cultural community center, but it needs to accept that hunger pains are the least of our concerns.
Publications room, N155, one week prior to publication. Letters must not contain personal attacks against an individual. Editors reserve the right to edit for length, clarity, and grammatical errors. Crier will accept letters from anyone, provided that the content pertains to school or school issues. Feedback may also be submitted on Twitter @munstermedia. Mailed subscriptions cost $25 per year. Ad rates and policies are available to anyone upon request. Crier is published 13 times a school year.
Hollywood is shown to the public as something that is constantly moving forward, moving at a rapid pace. At times it even seems like what is happening now is already in the rearview mirror of the massive vehicle that is Hollywood. Regardless of the incredible advances in the movie industry, what seems to be almost frozen in time are the problems that happen all too often in Hollywood. Recently, Harvey Weinstein, a famous film producer, has faced accusation of inappropriate (and potentially criminal behavior) by 78 women, most of whom were actresses who worked for him. Most of the women who accused him, also mentioned that Weinsetein held his power over their heads, threatening to ruin their careers if they were not compliant with what he asked of them. Many of the women said they felt as if there wasn’t any sort of way they could escape his advances because of his influence in Hollywood. This is where the problem lies: the fact that many superiors who have power over others feel it is okay to do such terrible things, and even worse, think they can get away with sexual assault because of their power and status. Sexual assault and harassment performed by asuperior in the workplace is seen far too often, but you would assume no one would blame the victim because they should expect it, right? In most cases yes, but if you read into sexual assault cases in Hollywood, women are often told that it is just a part of getting famous. Harvey Weinstein even told some of the women he allegedly assaulted and raped that they were going to need to sleep with directors or producers in order to further their career. Sexual assault and rape should not be something that is normalized in Hollywood. It is sickening to think that some people who work in the film industry are told that it is a necessary and normal part of being famous, when it is absolutely not. The women and men of Hollywood who have been sexually assaulted often times never come forward. Even when victims do come forward, they open themselves up to massive amounts of ridicule and victim blaming. The women who have accused Harvey Weinstein of sexual assault and misconduct are beyond brave to come forward and tell their stories. Hopefully this will help aspiring actors and actresses understand sexual assault has no place in Hollywood.
Visual Chief Gavin Hamilton People Editor Carey Scott Page Editors Alyssa Bass, Alex Kojich, Erianna Sims, Mercedez Williams Social Media Editor Melanie Powers Business Manager Micala Boyd Head Photographer Kess Vaitkus
The Staff
Chief Photographer Easan Venkat
Editor-in-Chief Ian S. Brundige Managing Editor Mimi Brody
Photographers Moira Glowacki, Lauren Kozy, Megan Szymanski, Robert Young
Section Chief Joseph Bermudez
Adviser Ms. Sarah-Anne Lanman
spotlight 05 nov. 15, 2017
Reasons for the vegan season
er Mac and Che w ese o ifl
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Ba
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Looking for a scrumptious twist on the classic macaroni and cheese? I recommend the Cauliflower “Mac and Cheese” Bake. With a mixture of vegan cheddar cheeses, and cauliflower florets, this dish takes creativity to the next level. I was a bit skeptical at first, as I was drifting away from the traditional favorite we are all familiar with, but I’m glad I gave it a try. This alternative dish doesn’t disappoint when it comes to the creamy, savory cheese flavor enhanced by the pasta substitute cauliflower. You can spice it up a bit, by adding your own spices or garnishes to finish it off, such as vegan bacon bits, fresh herbs and so on. Once you give it a try, I believe you’ll find it's a much healthier choice, and combines simplicity with deliciousness.
Vegan alternatives to Thanksgiving staples for World Vegan Month
ky Feast Box Tofur
Reviews by Erianna Sims Page Editor When we think of the month November, Thanksgiving usually comes to mind. One thing it wouldn’t be complete without is the wonderful variety of foods cooked on this special day. Roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing and pie can be associated with the traditional Thanksgiving dinner. Most of us never stop to think about those who can’t or choose not to eat these foods but still want to celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday. November is World Vegan Month which has grown tremendously, as millions of people around the world celebrate all things vegan during these 30 days. Vegan recipes are shared, family and friends host vegan lunches and dinners, and those interested in becoming a vegan are encouraged to do so during this month. Although these are classified as vegan recipes, anyone can enjoy these thanksgiving alternative meals. You can find these meals and many more on websites like, ilovevegan.com and www.vegansociety. com.
From the minute I stepped out of Whole Foods with my Holiday Feast Box, which featured one roast and gravy bowl, two wishstix and six brownies, I was pleasantly surprised. The tofurky roast had a unique taste that paired well with the kale and wild rice stuffing. I would recommend using the gravy to your advantage, as it enhances the flavor of the tofurky roast. Overall, I was moderately pleased with this meal, and would definitely enjoy it a second time. Getting your entire Thanksgiving meal in one convenient box was a great experience.
Rating system explained
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Vegan/ Everyone loves a Gluten Free Cinnawarm dessert during the loves mon Apple Pie - Everyone holidays. I indulged in a cinnamon a warm dessert during the holidays. pie, and might I sayapple I Icrumble indulgedapple in a cinnamon crumble couldn’t tell the slightest difference bepie, and might I say I couldn’t tell the slightest tween it and the traditional The crust was difference between it and thepie. traditional pie. The crunchy and flaky, while the apple filling was crust was crunchy and flaky, while the apple filling gooey and and full of My favorite partpart would was gooey fullflavor. of flavor. My favorite would have to be the crust and the crumble topping, have to be the crust and the crumble topping, even even though the granny and golden delithough the granny smithsmith and golden delicious cious apple filling inside was a divine asset asIf apple filling inside was a divine asset as well. well. If you’re interested in trying a dessert you’re interested in trying a dessert like this like one, don’t hesitate. You one,this don’t hesitate. You won’t bewon’t disapbe disappointed with the delectable pointed with the delectable results. results.
average
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06 infocus nov. 15, 2017
Civic
Duty
Students, teacher, discuss influence of social media on student involvement in politics Story by Gavin Hamilton Visual Chief
T
weeting. Commenting. Sharing pictures. Sliding into DMs. Social media has a plethora of purposes, but within the last few years, it has even been used by students to gain political awareness. President Trump uses it to communicate to citizens. “I believe that it (social media) can be (a good thing). In my ideal world we can use social media and we can use healthy partisanship as a way to facilitate a better discussion,” Connor Meyer, senior, Civics Club president said. “In the current world, it seems like it’s being used in a less than perfect fashion and in some cases dysfunctional. The use of social media and the speaking of viewpoints, whether they be conservative or liberal, is fundamentally a good thing because it gets the discussion started.” Although students are using social media to spur discussions about the issues that matter to them, social media also allows students to become aware of issues that they may not have known about before, according to Connor. “I think that crises or controversy has always kind of bred political awareness, for instance, in the 1960s, that was a time in which we were incredibly socially aware,” Connor said. “The civil rights movement spurred awareness on college campuses and spurred more discussion than
photo by Easan Venkat
LEAD THE PACK Managing Civics Club’s first meeting, Ms. Kristen Szafasz, social studies teacher, explains what Civics Club is, participation and the date of the next meeting. “One of the reasons why I got involved in Civics Club is because when I came back to the high school, I wanted to do something where I could get involved with the kids and it was a good idea to keep the Civics Club within the Social Studies Dept instead of having someone else take it over,” Ms. Szafasz said.
had ever been seen before.” Trump’s election, among other things, has caused students to turn to social media for news. “Obviously there is a lot of controversy with the 2016 election, but we are also facing things like climate change, terrorism and policy.” Connor said. “We are more divided than we ever have been and I think that society kind of spurred our generation to become more politically involved. I think that this has only been facilitated with social media; it just helps people to get their views out faster.” Social media use also allows students to see multiple viewpoints of a situation, unlike offline, where students may be more likely to avoid opposing viewpoints, according to Scott Kenning, senior. “Essentially, I feel like without social media, people are more inclined to avoid people that have different politi-
photo by Easan Venkat
After a year in office, Crier reflects on some of the most noteworthy events in Trump’s presidency
Three to go
Jan. 20 President Trump and Vice-President Mike Pence take Oath of Office
Your take “It did kind of surprise me, but Trump is a CEO type of person, so if he does run the government kind of like a corporation, he would tend to publicize firing or making people quit, or people resigning.” - Gary Chen, senior
May 9 President Trump fires James Comey as FBI director July 26 Via Twitter President Trump announces plans to ban openly transgender individuals from joining the military
Your take “I feel if transgender people can work the same or even more effectively than people who identify as male or female (cisgender), (President Trump) shouldn’t be able to do that.” - Leah Patterson, sophomore
cal views,” Scott said. “Social media makes it impossible to avoid people that you disagree with. So, I think there definitely is more interaction and people are getting more involved.” Students may often have a lack of access to civic education, so they turn to social media to gain knowledge on current affairs, according to Mr. Michael Gordon, social studies teacher. “It’s not a response to the particular election, but the factors that got us to where we are.” Mr. Gordon said. “Right now, the United States in general, Indiana in particular, are at some of the lowest levels of civic health. Voter turnout is down, the number of individuals that view multiple non-confirmation bias sources of information is down, faith in our political institutions is down and our collective interest in supporting civic education is sadly, down. Consider that the state of Indiana subsidizes STEM exams, but not social studies ones. Consider that the State of Indiana only requires one semester of government and three years of social studies. Consider that we don’t have statewide testing in civics.”
DUAL IDENTITY Performing his speech piece, Noah Moell acts like Donald Trump. “My piece is a parody of the hit tv show ‘24’, it’s about terrorists infiltrating the U.S. and secret agent Jack Bauer trying to stop them,” Noah said.
Feb. 1
Your take “I was like ‘that’s terrible’ and it’s unfair. It’s not doing anything to help because most of the people who commit terrible acts that he speaks of, are white, and live in this country.” - Lily Leslie, junior
Executive Order 13769, commonly known as the Muslim ban, was published
March 24 President Trump requests to pull American Health Care Act, replacement to Affordable Care Act, before vote Oct. 8 Vice President Pence walks out of NFL game after players kneel during the national anthem
Your take “It’s a free country and we have freedom of speech. If Mike Pence wanted to walk out during the Nation Anthem, he had the right, just as the players had the right to kneel during the anthem.” - Meg Suoranta, junior
Present Week Donald Trump goes on tour of Asia source: ap.org
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infocus 07 nov. 15, 2017
Three hotels
SpringHilll Suites by Marriott opened last month
Vince Ivetich, senior
“
Constructing
Grand openings
the future
photos by Melanie Powers
Reporting by Ian S. Brundige Editor-in-Chief
Molly Dolan, senior
“
White Oaks Resident
We are right by Chicago, so I feel like people kind of just they get this close to Chicago and they’re like ‘Let’s just get into Chicago.’ Let’s not even stop.’ So I think it’s just kind of the placement of the city.”
Tuition student
I wouldn’t say its necessary but it’s definitely going to help the community because its going to bring in new jobs. It’s going to bring in different companies. It’s going to bring in new revenue for the town, especially a lot those hotels right there. I know a popular event, not for us obviously, but for a lot adults that come around is for Three Floyd Brewery... There are people that come from all over the country and all over the world, so more hotels the better.
Students opinion on progress in Centennial Village
Development along Calumet Avenue has continued from North to South in recent years
2012 North Calumet
New: Chiptole, Five Guys, Firehouse Subs Relocation: Froyo Fran-lin Parkway
Restaurants in area
4
22,825 population
(as of 2016, according to US Census)
Construction of stores along Calumet
2017 Centennial Village New: The Simple Greek, Kitaro Relocation: El Salto
Broadmoor Avenue
6
Restaurants now on block
2015 Near Community Hospital
New: Starbucks, Potbelly, Meatheads, Noodles and Company 45th Street
3
Restaurants planned
source: nwitimes.com
currently
63restaurants in Munster along Ridge Road and Calumet Avenue
Medical buildings are also being built along Calumet across from Centennial Village
Bree Karl, junior
“
Munster is
7.637 mi²
Lives near current Dunkin’ Donuts
I think it’s a good idea, because it’s good for the people that live by Cobblestones and on that side of 45th instead of everyone having to go to the one by Target. Yes, (I think it’s weird that there are going to be two Dunkin’s) but Dunkin’ is such a big thing in the town of Munster, just because it’s cheap and its so local, and they have other things than just coffee.”
A second Dunkin’ Donuts is being built by the CVS on Calumet Avenue
Centennial Village expands past the current centennial park
Yalissa Rubio, sophomore
“
Dunkin’ Donuts morning frequent
My friend makes me go every morning. No more traffic right there, A+ for me. Before school I’ll get iced caramel coffee with cream and sugar. If I’m going there after school I’ll get a vanilla bean coolatta. So good. It’s sweet. It just, like, makes me happy.”
Two Dunkin’ Donuts
photos by Melanie Powers
08 infocus nov. 15, 2017
Continued from front: What are your freedoms of self expression? Why have the rules?
Over
Dressing Down The school handbook determines some of these outfits to be ‘innappropriate’ due to certain variables.
Students, teachers discuss dress code, how it effects learning environment
exposed
“Clothing that permits display of the midriff, navel, bare shoulder(s), or undergarments of any type is not permitted.”
Story by Erianna Sims
and they haven’t been dress coded,” Mrs. Rosemary Malagon, Spanish teacher, said. “I someWearing a crop top and cardigan, Lucy Torres, times feel like other teachers are uncomfortable sophomore, sits in student services missing part dress coding students, especially female students, of her Spanish II class after being dress coded. because it’s a female student, and it just makes Lucy has been dress coded three times this year, male teachers, I think, feel uncomfortable.” resulting in missed class time, and having to learn The general policy states specific rules with no the new material later on. gender attachments, but some feel girls are the Three different teachers/staff members dress main target of dress code rules, are are treated coded her for wearing crop tops that much stricter than boys. showed too much of her skin. She did “I don’t think the dress code is put on a jacket afterwards, but still fair to girls, it can get ridiculous at I don’t think had strong feelings towards the poltimes,” Peter Gallagher, sophomore, individuals can icy. said. “There is a difference in the “As a student of Munster High get distracted dress code, and boys don’t get disSchool, I interpret the dress code to tracted by what girls wear; they get by clothing, and be unfair most of the time, but there distracted by the girl.” are situations where the dress code it’s more of a Some teachers also agree that is beneficial, when dealing with choice to look at dress code can be stricter on girls. clothing that is inappropriate,” Lucy, “I think it’s probably a little strictanother’s clothing, said, “From my point of view I believe er on girls then it is on the guys, that the dress code is simply unfair, rather than a and that’s a tough thing for male and it should be taken a little less de- distraction.” teachers because you have to think, manding.” —Lucy Torres, ‘Is it appropriate for me to be saying Lucy doesn’t fully understand how sophomore something? If someone is in violaher clothing or certain clothing listed tion of the dress code because does in the handbook could be “distracting.” that mean I’m picking them out because of their “I don’t think individuals can get distracted by outfit?’ and ‘Should I be looking that closely for clothing, and it’s more of a choice to look at an- things like that?’” Mr. Martin, math teacher, said. other’s clothing, rather than a distraction,” Lucy “However, I feel that I have a daughter of my own said. “No one thinks ‘Her stomach is showing, I and I would tell my daughter if she was dressed can’t look away. It’s so distracting that I can’t help inappropriately.” myself.’ This dress code teaches us young womSome teachers agree that dress code policies en that we must cover up to help and benefit the could be clearer and more straightforward, rather boys’ learning environment so they don’t get ‘dis- than the way things are currently. tracted’.” “It probably needs to be consistent across the Teachers and other staff have the authority to board for guys and young ladies so that there’s redress code students seen wearing obscene cloth- ally no gray area,” Mr. Martin said. “It’s black and ing of any sort, but many choose not to. white, cut and dry, so that everyone knows what’s “Kids come to me towards the end of the day, acceptable and what’s unacceptable.” Page Editor
“
Put it in
park Community Pool No assigned parking spaces, just parking pass spaces
The parking lots that surrounds the school photo illustration by Lauren Kozy
West
74
spaces
NOT ALLOWED The admistration applies pressure to students to follow the rules, one of which is students not being allowed to park in the front of the school.
North South
MHS
271
spaces 74 10 are for are for staff hospital staff
125 spaces
25 are for staff
Northeast East
graphic by Gavin Hamilton Source: student handbook
Page Editor
Lay of the land
12 of which students have
“Clothing that permits display of the midriff, navel, bare shoulder(s), or undergarments of any type is not permitted.”
Story by Alyssa Bass
Administration reinforces parking lot rules
159
“Garments that have pictures and/or writing that is vulgar, suggestive, indecent, or otherwise offensive are not permitted.”
Strictly for the school’s staff and faculty
No
student parking, only for buses
graphic by Ian S. Brundige
Students that park in the school’s parking lot know that it can sometimes get a little hectic with all the people coming in and out of the school at the end of the day. “After school is difficult because if you don’t get out immediately you are stuck waiting and it is hard to get onto the main road from the parking lot because people don’t always want to let you in,” Luke Dragicevich, junior, said. Some rules that students may not know about include parking in your spot, even if you get to school late. “I came in late for school and I had a doctor’s note, but I didn’t know we were supposed to park in our parking spots still. So I parked in the front and I got in trouble for it,” Riley Portone, senior, said. With winter coming soon, so is snow and dangerous road conditions. Which will make things more difficult for students who use the school’s parking lots. “If your assigned spot has a pile of snow (or another car), this is not an open invitation to park anywhere,” Valerie Zemaitis, assistant principal, said.
sports 09 nov. 15, 2017
Different kind of game Students discuss Biddy Ball games Sundays, reasons why they play Story by Joe Bermudez Section Chief Each Sunday, 12 teams match up against each other for four seven-minute quarters in the Fieldhouse and play the popular recreational sport: Biddy Ball. While there are some that are aware of the popularity of Biddy Ball, when Kinan Kudaimi, senior, first signed up to play five years ago, he was not aware of the recreational sport, it’s full extent and how enjoyable he would eventually find playing. “My parents just signed me up. I didn’t even know what it was, so I didn’t want to be in it,” Kudaimi said. “That opinion has changed since then though, the competitiveness and fun of Biddy Ball draws me back each year.” In fifth grade, Tony Daniels, senior, played Biddy Ball, but due to him making the school team in sixth grade, he was forced to make the switch and devote all of his basketball practice solely to the school team. However, to take some pressure off of his senior year, Daniels decided not to play for the school team and instead wanted an activity that was relaxed, but still competitive. This led him to make a return to Biddy Ball. “Obviously, the competition is a lot different,” Daniels, said. “But the biggest difference is that is it’s a lot more relaxed and there is not nearly as much pressure as the school team. I wanted to something to keep me active and stay fun with little pressure during the winter of my senior year.” Each of the 117 players have their own reason for playing Biddy Ball, but one seems to remain a
photos by Moira Glowacki
CUTTING THROUGH (top) In a win for the Grizzlies, Justin Brent, senior, jumps in the air and shoots a layup. Confident in his team, Brent believes his team is the team to beat. “I realistically don’t think it’s possible for us to lose,” Brent said. “I like Biddy Ball because it can get very competitive, but it’s also really fun because I’m playing with all my friends.” STARE DOWN (bottom) Crossing the center of the court, Jimmy Forde, senior, overlooks the defense and prepares to begin his team’s offensive possession. UP IN THE AIR (right) To begin the game, Sean Adams (right), junior, and Khaleel Igue (left), senior, jump for the ball in the center court.
constant: the competition. “It’s fun and competitive, everyone tries,” Ku“I’m playing Biddy Ball because some of my daimi said. “There’s good players and I want to try friends talked me into it when they heard I wasn’t to do my best, something everyone else does. It’s going to be playing for the also a new experience every school team,” Matt Tripenfel- Name of the game game, different game plans and das, junior, said. “I also like to Differences between playing Biddy match ups like who you guard compete in different sports and Ball compared to school team that particular game. Plus the Biddy Ball gives me the compedifferent teams we’re on each Biddy Ball tition without the time commityear mixes things up.” Practices ment.” So far enjoying his time, two before season starts Along with the level of comTripenfeldas expects to play Game length petition, the familiarization of again next year. four seven-minute quarters the opponents is another as- Minimum playing time “I will definitely end up playpect to the popularity of Biddy ing Biddy Ball in the future,” one quarter Ball, according to Nick HamilTripenfeldas said. “It makes School team ton, junior. it that much better when you “You play against your class- Practices can play with your friends that daily mates every week, where in never made the school team. It Game length school ball, you’re lucky to makes it a new experience that four eight-minute quarters know one person on the other Minimum playing time I am enjoying a lot.” team,” Nick Hamilton, junior, no minimum said. “(Knowing who you are source: Tony Daniels, senior playing) is a pretty big factor. It makes the games more fun.” The variety of the competition is what draws Kudaimi back each year.
A look ahead
Boys’ Basketball concludes try-outs, begins season preparing for scrimmage Saturday Story by Erianna Sims and Mercedez Williams Page Editors Jumping into the season so quickly, Boys’ Basketball ended their tryouts last week and are practicing for their scrimmage game Saturday at Plymouth at 5 p.m. Going from tryouts straight into a game shows just how hard they are working, and their level of commitment this season. “We’ve been practicing really hard this week and last week,” Luka Balac, freshman, said. “We’ve got a scrimmage upcoming this Saturday, so it’s
pretty exciting to finally play after working this hard.” The returning players have helped prepare Balac and other new players for the upcoming season. “I’m very excited to know that a lot of the upperclassmen are really good and they are going to take me up under their wing and show me the ropes,” Balac said. “It’s just a great time to be a part of the team.” The team is made up of 10 members, who are confident in their new additions to the team as well as the returners’ skills. “Luka is very talented. He scores very easily and he’s a part of us too,
he’s a great hustle player,” Jevon Morris, junior, said. Both the returners and new players foresee a successful season after the amount of preparation that has gone into it so far. “Tryouts were basically like a regular practice, and for our scrimmage, we are basically going to work on our defense, and build our offense up,” Morris said. “We’re going to be really good this season, this is our time to win a lot of games.” Although they have been practicing together a brief time, the team feels that with their skills combined, the season will go well. “I think this season is going to go well,” Balac said. “Everyone is hardworking and everyone wants to win. I think we’re going to have a good team this year.” Students are encouraged to attend the team’s first game. “First game, November 22, be there,” Morris said.
photo by Kess Vaitkus
THE FUNDAMENTALS Practicing his free throws, Scott Farmer, junior, prepares to take a shot. “(The season) should be fun this year,” Farmer said. “I’m confident that we’ll do well and we’ll improve from last year.”
10sports nov. 15, 2017
Change of pace Girls’ Basketball hosts Andrean Friday, plays with newly found confidence and skill Story by Joe Bermudez Section Chief
W
ith three games already under their belt, Girls’ Basketball starts off their season with a 1-2 record. Despite what the record shows, Coach Jim Davidson, PTLW teacher, believes the team played well against tough competition, and has the skill to continue to do so as the season plays out. “I thought we played pretty well in (all three) games,” Coach Davidson said. “East Chicago is supposed to be the best team in the area and we played them really close. Kind of gave it away at the end there with a three or four minute stretch we didn’t play very well and they beat us by 11, but I thought we were competitive and I think we’re going to be that competitive all year and have a chance at being one of the better teams in the area.” The team’s competitive instinct and confidence can be traced back to the team’s new routine they introduced this season, according to Izzy Bednarowski, junior. “We’ve been doing new things. Like for practice, we shoot for ten minutes or do dribbling drills then we get into stretching. Last year we didn’t do that,” Bednarowski said. “I feel like we’ve been working in practices a lot harder than last year and that will definitely help our season.” Hosting Andrean Friday at 7 p.m. as the first conference game of the season, Coach Davidson believes team can earn a Conference title.
“Conference is always important, and without it we wouldn’t be able to hit one our goals this year to try to win Conference,” Coach Davidson said. “Last year we were tied for second or third, but I feel like we have a shot at winning this year and it all starts with beating Andrean (Friday). (Andrean) lost several seniors, so they’re still going to be good but very young, so it’s an opportunity for us to win and impose our will on them.” Their higher level of skill and confidence is due to players pushing themselves to play their best to earn more playing time, according to Coach Davidson. “(Playing better has been caused by) experience along with our youth,” Coach Davidson said. “We’ve got some young girls coming in that are skilled and pushing everyone else because they’re pushing for playing time so it’s making it more competitive and everyone is playing harder to get their chance on the floor.” Finishing the season 9-15 last year, Emily Zabrecky, sophomore, believes the team has the skill to be one of the best in the area. “I think we’re going to come out with a lot of wins this year we’re going to make big things happen and change the name for (Girls’ Basketball),” Zabrecky said. “I feel like our name is going to change this year. We’ve been sort of on and off but we’ve never had the skill we have this year and I feel like having as much skill as we do, we’re going to change the perspectives of others of how we are and how we play.”
photo by Lauren Kozy
UP AND IN Getting in some extra practice and visualizing an in-game scenario, Izzy Bednarowski, junior, works on perfecting her shooting technique. Adding a ten minute shoot-around session before practice begins has been one of the reasons Bednarowski is confident the team will perform well this season. “During practice, we work a lot harder than we did last year,” Bednarowski said. “I think we’re a lot stronger as a team.”
Run the court Girls’ Basketball inbound play “Mustang” starting from out-of-bounds.
#11 Izzy Bednarowski
#10
#34 Taneigh Boyd
Jaycee Helmer
#25
Holly Kaim
#5
Maddy Lakomek
Jaycee Helmer sets a screen in the paint, Holly Kaim rolls around screen to the mid range to set a screen, Maddy Lakomek draws her defender away, Taneigh Boyd drives to the basket, Izzy Bednarowski passes the ball from out-of-bounds to Boyd for the attempted shot. source: Coach Jim Davidson, PLTW teacher
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sports nov. 15, 2017
11
Olympic sized training
Swimmers attend olympic training over summer; qualify for junior training Story by Alex Kojich Page editor Over the summer, two students attended the Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs with Team Indiana. Holden Raffin, sophomore, and Kay Foley, junior, had the opportunity to train with the team and participate in Junior Nationals. “It was amazing to attend,” Raffin said. “To train with the best of the best was truly a spectacle.” The Winter Junior Nationals consist of 56 swimmers, 28 boys and 28 girls, aged 15-18. “I’m not sure where it will go from here, but it’s really exciting,” Raffin said. “This is a big accomplishment for me. I mean, it’s geared towards the next level of swimming.” Raffin qualified for the training by compiling enough Power Points, a system where points are gained based on time. The quicker the swimmer is, the more points they gain per event. Selections are then based off of points gathered, and the top 28 for each gender qualify. To qualify for Junior Nationals, the swimmer had to make specific time cuts, according to Foley. The cuts are known as A and B cuts, and the swimmer has to make at least one A cut in order to pass. Foley was able to qualify by getting her A cut during a 200, 800 and 400 meter swim event two weeks before the Junior Nationals event took “It was really cool,” Foley said. “The pool was awesome, and it was even more awesome to see the other great swimmers.” Foley relives the moment when she found out she qualified often, recalling her best experiences. “It was very surreal,” Foley said. “I was grateful. Actually, I had to get myself disqualified during the mile competition in order to participate, because my coach assumed I would be too tired.” The other swimmers came from all around the nation, with the only other local member being Raffin. “We got to watch all the other swimmers on these computer monitors when we weren’t swimming,” Foley said. “Events took place throughout the day, so when I wasn’t swimming, I was in the cool down pool, which was outside of the actual event place.” Both Foley and Raffin placed in their respective events. Raffin is heading to Tennessee over the winter to attend the Junior Nationals. “When I found out that I made it to the Winter Junior Nationals I was ecstatic,” Raffin said. Additional reporting by Ian S. Brundige
photo by Kess Vaitkus
BREATH OF FRESH AIR During practice after school, Holden Raffin, sophomore performs the freestyle stroke. After a lap of the butterfly stroke, it is usually followed by the breast stroke, back stroke, and then freestyle to complete his practice. “I do 200 IM’s, or individual medley, and on the first leg is where I usually do the butterfly stroke,” Raffin said.
In the right lane Boys’, Girls’ Swimming season begins; Diving team has new coach, focuses on fundamentals
Story by Alex Kojich
Diving in
Page editor
Dive team spends upcoming months practicing different dives for events
Under the leadership of Coach Mathew Pavlovich, PE teacher, this year’s swimming team hopes to capture a state championship. “This year I really hope to achieve the best possible outcome for us,” Coach Pavlovich said. “As individuals and as a team.” During the intersquad last week, the team’s diving squad participated, pitting the divers against each other. “Intersquad competition is a great time for the swimmers to compete against each other and create friendly rivalries,” said Coach Pavlovich. “I hope for them to enhance the season as well.” The team’s new diving coach, Ms. Cal-Jammie Richmond, is optimistic about the team’s future. “My goal is to refine all the skills for returning divers and build the program with the new divers,” Coach Richmond said. As a new coach, it’s often difficult to adjust to new teammates. Coach Richmond believes otherwise. “Having a positive coaching style helps keep the kids engaged,” Coach Richmond said. Last year’s diving squad was miniscule compared to this year’s. “It’s exciting to see the new people,” Ali Anunziata, sophomore, said. Anunziata got into diving due to her background in gymnastics, and enjoys the event.
Forward An approach followed by a jump forwards
Backward
Standing at the end of the board and diving backward
Reverse Jumping forwards, finished by turning towards the board
Inward Standing at end of board and diving towards the board
Twisting Jumping off with a twisting motion sources: juniors Casey Meldgin and Eleanor Wilson photo by Megan Szymanski
“It gives me something fun to do,” Anunziata said. “Plus, it’s cool to challenge myself.” For every meet, there are five types of required diving groups: forward, backward, reverse, inward, and twisting. For Eleanor Wilson, junior, her mindset changes drastically depending on the dive. “For reverse, I think about arm swing and positioning my head correctly,” Wilson said. “When it comes to twisting, it’s about getting up first and then doing the twisting.” Wilson struggles with reverse and inward dives, mainly due to the risk of injury. “Those are my worst,” Wilson said. “I’m afraid of potentially hitting my head, and being so close to the board is intimidating.” Wilson is able to manage her weakened areas, however, when it comes to meets. “I have to remind myself to calm down and not freak out as much,” Wilson said. “If I’m at a meet, and I start to freak out, I have to remind myself that I do it all the time in practice and that if I couldn’t do it, she (Coach Richmond) wouldn’t put it in my list.” Wilson isn’t alone in her fears on certain dives, with teammates backing her up when tensions get high mentally. “It’s nice,” Wilson said. “My teammates are there for me when I get nervous.”
12 student life nov. 15, 2017
BACKTALK
First of the family
Justice League premieres Friday. Who would you want on your superhero team?
source: commonapp.com photo illustration by Gavin Hamilton
Students, teacher discuss college applications, differences between in first-generation students and non-first-generation students parent attend college. Along with not being able to talk to their parents, first-generation students do not have Page editor the same support in the application process and reoing to college can be difficult for anyone, but search that students who are not first-generation. for first-generation students, it’s a whole differ“If your parents do not know what going to college ent experience. Thinking about going to college is like then they can’t tell you. People can sit here and can confuse students, but when you do not have your say ‘Going to school is going to be like this,’ but I did not parents to turn to for help it can make things more have that, so it was more of ‘Here it is,” Mr. Thompson difficult. First-generation students face problems that said. other students do not. Olivia, though she is a first-generation student, she “I didn’t have any family to talk to about problems was just expected to go to college. Though she has a that were going on, that was a say in the matter, it never really big problem I had,” Mr. Nathaniel was a question of whether she Common ground Thompson, science teacher, who was going or not. was a first-generation student Students discuss differences is “They’re all nervous, especially said. “Then they didn’t understand college application experiences since I want to go to out of state. I why I couldn’t do things with my Non-first-generation: Stan Herrera was always expected to go, I guess family, all my time was taken His parents set him up pretty with every tool that it was my choice but it wasn’t. up by school or doing things at he needed to get through the college application I am expected to go, but they’re process school. That was a hard thing for Some teachers went above and beyond to help glad that I’m already applying to them to grasp.” prepare him for college places and knowing where I want First generation students’ feel- Guidance Counselors have helped a lot with his to go,” Olivia said. ings vary. Some might feel pre- college process Olivia also doesn’t know what Wants to go to college to become a cardiologist pared or anxious about going into she wants to major in when she their college career. First Generation: Olivia Hesterman gets to college. She has ideas of “I’m excited since my parents She wasn’t able to ask her parents about things where she wants to go and what didn’t go to college, but they’re college related she is interested in when she gets She had to learn how to fill out documents by nervous. I’m kind of anxious herself to college. about it because I don’t really Doesn’t know what to expect going into college “I have no idea what I am going know what I’m going into, but I’m Doesn’t know what she wants to major in, but is to major in, but I’m really interestexcited more than anything,” Ol- interested in psychology and human services ed in psychology and human serivia Hesterman, senior said. vices, and things like that. HelpNon-first-generation student s ing people, figuring things out, have someone to talk to throughwondering why people do what of seniors who out their college journey. they do,” Olivia said. “My parents set me up pretty Stan, who is not a first-generused the Common well. I’ve been pretty lucky and ation student, has applied to colApp last year were my parents have given me evleges to become a cardiologist. He ery tool that I needed to succeed,” first generation wants to be able to help people Stan Herrera, non-first-generaand be a good doctor to his pacollege students tion, said. tients. source: commonapp.com Many first-generation students “I want to be a cardiologist, don’t have their parents to ask for when my grandpa passed away, help when filling out college applications or taking the the cardiologist that he had just had a dead expression steps to apply for college. on his face. I didn’t want anyone else to go through “I wasn’t able to ask my parents about it since they that, I want to be a doctor that talks to the patient and didn’t go, they didn’t know anything about stuff like fi- ask if they have any question,” Stan said. nancial aid,” Olivia said. “I had to fill out FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) all by myself and I had to figure out how to turn in my applications by myself.” According to the Center for Community College Student Engagement in Texas, about 47 percent of first-generation students said they were making a four-year college career their most important goal. While 56 percent of non-first-generation students had a four-year college plan as their number one goal. “Probably the biggest hurdle these students can face is if they feel like they are planning their futures all on their own, without anyone available to answer their questions or offer them help,” Mr. Peter Fatouros, guidance counselor, said. “If they feel this is the case, these photo by Kess Vaitkus teens sometimes put off making post-secondary plans FUTURE PLANS Filling out her common application in study hall, Mackuntil it’s too late.” enzie Duff, senior, applies to University of Colorado Boulder. “I chose First-generation college students attend college at Boulder because of the location,” Mackenzie said. “It’s far enough away a lower rate than other students who had at least one to enjoy the nature, but not totally away from civilization.”
“Batman, Thor, Iron Man, that’s a power team.”
“Batman, because he’s Batman.”
Spencer Burse, freshman
Roger Fabian, freshman
“The Flash because he can run away from his problems, and I wish I could do that.”
“I want Wonder Woman because she’s basically like God.”
Ty Hesterman, sophomore
Jamie DeJoan, sophomore
“I would like Captain America on my team because of how American and patriotic he is.”
“I would choose Superman because then we could fly away from trouble.”
Michael Parobek, junior
Megan Dedelow, junior
“Mermaid Man and Barnacle Boy. They drive an invisible boatmobile so you never know if they are sitting down or actually trying to drive.”
“My uncle (Mr.) Robert Shinkan (math teacher). He looks like he would be able to kill anybody with those strong math questions.”
Story by Alyssa Bass
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Jeremiah Eaton, senior
Ally Shinkan, senior
“I would want Wonder Woman just because I am obsessed with the Amazon Princess.”
“The Hulk, obviously. I need the strength and the power and the aggression. Superman’s flying ability, obviously super strong.”
Lyndee Govert, math teacher
Mr. Morgan Nolan, Assisant Principal