MHS Crier | Issue 6 | 1.22.2021

student life

BACKTALK It’s Guy Fieri’s 52nd birthday.

What’s the weirdest thing you’ve ever eaten?

“Meat jello, it’s pieces of meat surrounded in gelatin meat juice. It’s nasty.”

—Kiki Petrovic freshman

“Butter noodles and ketchup, I liked it and I would do it again.”

—Daniella Nahnsen sophomore

“Cornflakes and ice cream.”

—Salma Khani junior

“Octopus and squid coleslaw, no doubt.”

—Kailyn Oganovich senior

“My buddy ate an entire tissue in Ms. Pflum’s class during my junior year.”

“Broccoli and ketchup.”

—Tristan Evans freshman

“Calamari since it’s small fried squid and you can see its little tentacles.”

—Andrew Klaich sophomore

“Definitely gotta be raw squid.”

-Sam Foreit junior

“Chicken’s feet.”

—Yianni Delis senior

“When I was a kid, for breakfast I’d eat pancakes with syrup and ketchup.”

—Mr. Dillon Pierie —Mr. Steve Stepnoski English teacher math teacher

munster high school crier — jan. 22, 2021

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Minds on the inauguration Jan. 20, students and teachers share disbelief in the wake of Capitol mobbing lana salahieh and atarah israel

editor-in-chief and managing editor

When Myanne Zachary, junior, found out about the mobbing of the U.S. Capitol building, she was in a state of utter disbelief.

“I was shocked,” Myanne said. “The very first headline I saw of it, I thought it was fake to be honest. I was like, ‘there’s no way this is happening. That’s so ridiculous. This is crazy.’

Then, within one headline being posted, I saw seven more.”

Inspired by the condition of the nation in the wake of one of its darker stages, Myanne has composed a speech piece reflecting on the Capitol with a focus on its racial implications.

Featuring a collection of poems, the piece is titled “The Great White Wall.”

“What inspired it was that day (the Capitol storming),” Myanne said. “My speech coach, Mrs. (Kathleen) Boyle (speech coach), and I, we were just sitting and we couldn’t even talk about my piece. We were sitting there on the phone for almost two hours feeling like ‘I can’t believe this is happening right now,’ and we just had this entire rant session. Ms. Boyle was just listening to me rant and goes, ‘let’s make this the piece.’ We found some really amazing pieces that we felt were extremely prevalent.”

Though there are numerous factors to consider when analyzing the incident that has shaken the country once again, some say the reaction following the Capitol breach reinforces the deep questions raised by the wave of protests witnessed throughout last year.

“I think we have to be careful not to draw too many conclusions,” Mr. Michael Gordon, Government and Ethnic Studies teacher, said. “I think it’s really scary if you look at one event, and describe that as the epitome for everything. With that said, there is certainly a recognizable history in the aggressiveness in response to Black Lives Matter as they’re meant to the Trump rallies, the anti-vaxxers and so forth. And it has to be acknowledged.

I think one would have to be blind to not see the difference in how we as a

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munster high school

issue six | volume 56 8808 columbia ave. munster in, 46321

society react to various movements.”

Though the political state of the country has been divided long before chaos ensued at the Capitol, the storming witnessed two weeks ago represents an unsettling product of heightened polarization.

“Divisiveness in the country is nothing new,” Mr. Steve Lopez, AP U.S. History teacher, said.

“This divisiveness seems to be a little bit more unique in the realm of, there seems to be more of a societal divide that’s rearing its head.”

For Mr. Lopez, the Capitol riot is not just another unforeseen incident that has followed the cataclysmic events that began last year, but a historical moment of disturbance and trial of the American character. The storming witnessed represents an unsettling product of the heightened polarization witnessed in recent time.

“Over the next four years, there’s the hope that this chasm can possibly be overcome, and that we can find a sense of unity,” he said. “The optimist wants to believe that, (but) the realist is going to cite the numbers of the 78 million plus that voted the way that they did and lost.

Unfortunately, I don’t believe that just a change in political leadership is going to provide that sense of unity that Sierra many of us are hoping for.”

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jan. 22. 2021

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“Although (Biden) is not perfect, I can definitely see potential for growth.

Sweeny junior

“I’d like to see a push toward respecting each other and looking past differences.”

Jac oby Hoover senior

“The country can begin to heal from the wounds of 2020 by embracing a need for accountability, unde rstanding and progress.”

Aaron Gorny senior

Two days into Biden administration, students and teachers alike share hope for the future An era of social discourse Looking back at the relationship between social media and politics

graphics by max lindenmayer and cali petersen

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news

munster high school crier — Jan. 22, 2021

S t anda r d i z ed t es t i ng Which of the following dates are ACT testing dates?

Feb 6

April 17

July 17

A

June 12

B

C

D

All of the above

E

Which of the following are SAT testing dates?

March 13

A

May 8

B

June 5

C

All of the above

D

Testing centers may close or reduce capacity to follow COVID-19 restrictions.

True

A

False

B

illustration by henry hofferth

Standardized testing precautions in place How standardized testing has changed this spring due to COVID-19 josephine mittelberger

page editor

The onslaught of COVID-19 has brought changes to AP, SAT and ACT testing. This year, the tests are inperson and taking place at MHS or test centers. If a test center closes or a student has a COVID-19 risk, an online exam can be taken at home.

“I think it is awesome the tests are given here at school,” Kathleen LaPorte, AP Human Geography teacher, said. “Unlike the SAT or ACT which students have to take on a Saturday, students can take these exams in a building that is familiar to them. This helps psychologically and helps increase scores. College Board can also take some comfort in knowing our tests are administered correctly, securely and safely. On top of that, the amount of safeguards needed to run online exams is enormous. In-person is better.”

College Board, which controls SAT and AP testing, has been adamant about making sure that in-person testing remains available. To be certain of everyone’s safety, they have set up requirements: all students and staff must wear masks, students must be at least six feet apart and students will have to confirm statements that ensure they do not have COVID-19 to their knowledge.

If these requirements aren’t met, the student will be dismissed, their scores will be canceled and they will not receive a refund.

“I think that the precautions that are in place will be effective; it is the same thing we do everyday in school,” Mrs. Dawn Vidt, AP chemistry teacher, said. “I just wish it was an online test because—as a grader—I have to handle all those papers and it forces me to make indirect contact with many students.”

Alterations to the SAT have also been enacted. Due to the

availability and more practical learning experiences of AP tests, SAT Subject Tests will be discontinued— registration will automatically be canceled and refunds will be given.

The optional SAT essay will also be completely canceled after June since there are other ways for a student to demonstrate their writing skills. If registered, cancellations can be made free of charge. These cancellations will lead to more available seats for those taking the SAT while maintaining proper safety measures. A digital SAT is currently being created to accommodate for students that cannot attend test centers.

ACT has made similar COVID-19 provisions to College Board, but has not stated what will happen to a student who doesn’t follow these restrictions. For the ACT and SAT, days have been added to make up for the lack of seating; students may want to sign up in advance—seats fill fast. Test centers closing and seats lost due to reduction will lead to rescheduling—keep an eye out for any updates.

Those taking AP courses have time to cancel their tests, for the unused fee has been removed this year. However, the late order fee still applies.

Next year, AP tests will change.

MHS has been chosen to participate in the Advanced Placement Teacher Investment Program (AP-TIP IN).

This means AP courses will be created through a collaboration between Munster teachers and professors from Notre Dame University. Students not only benefit from improved curriculums, but any student that gets a score of three or higher on their AP exam will earn $100, which goes directly to the student.

“We’re still in the introductory process of getting into this program,” Mr. Peter Gregory, AP Coordinator, said. “(We) will be working on our plan of action over the next few months and over the summer.”

Club updates: changes happening this month

n Film Club now has a new sponsor: Mr. Benjamin Boruff, English teacher.

“A friend and I, we like to travel around Midwest and go to artsy theaters to watch foreign and indie movies, and I just enjoy helping (Film Club) out,” Mr Boruff said. n African American Culture Club will be changing their name to Black Culture Club.

“It was a decision made by the membership base, so not the adults. The students decided this,” Sponsor Mrs. Jennifer Dettlo, Spanish teacher, said. n The first Mustang Mental Health meeting was held virtually on Jan 20 with the help of SAC. “Most of it will be about providing peer support through a student-led mental health resource,” Ava Quasney, founder and senior, said.

Contact Ava at 8001227@student. munster.us for more information.

Munster Theatre Club call out meeting Feb. 4

photo by Gia Cvitkovich

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PLACES EVERYONE Rehearsing

for the production of “They eat sunshine not zebras” Isidora Pavlic, Josh Korwek,Sophomores and Claire William ,Chloe Sarkhardy,Freshman, Are receiving constructive criticism from Mr. Palace.

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Bringing new life to the phrase, “the show must go on,” the Munster Theatre company has planned two new productions for the spring. The club will be holding a call out meeting via Microsoft Teams for their spring play, “Peter and the Starcatcher” Feb. 4. A pre-recorded performance of the play will be streamed in May. For those interested, Mr. Ray Palasz, Theatre director, is coordinating the distribution of the meeting link. Members of Theatre are also preparing for the production of Tarzan, a streaming event that will feature MHS alumni and will premiere in April. Despite the setback of not having in-person, live performances, members remain enthusiastic about the productions.

“From the fall productions, it was very weird having to act and perform without an audience, just because we did film those as well,” Ashley Nita, senior and president, said. “We did a comedy for the fall production, and you’re used to having to break for laughter, and you just don’t get that when you have a joke. It’s almost awkward in a way, but you have to just focus on the camera and pretend that there’s people in the audience to make sure you do get that actual acting experience.”

Corrections

illustration by anthony young

In the mhsnews.net digital issue 5 of Crier on Dec. 11, in the Art Club story, Sofia Pavlic is the president of Art Club.

For the Boys’ Basketball story, Luka Balac’s response to “How long have you been playing basketball?” should be “I’ve been playing basketball since second grade.” Crier regrets these errors.

news

Munster high school crier — jan. 22, 2021

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Bridging to new lanes

photo by henry hofferth CROSSSING OVER Connecting two previously separated parts of Munster, the underpass allows for traffic to flow much faster. This new addition to the road will open up traffic to the upcoming Centennial Village.

Residents celebrate completion of underpass 15 years in the making page editor

After more than 15 years of planning and nearly two years of construction, Munster’s 45th street underpass has finally met completion.

“I am confident that the new underpass will help to alleviate some of the frustration that was created by the blocked trains and will help to bring people to that economically developing area,” Mrs. Wendy Mis, town clerk and treasurer, said. “The opening of the road was quite exciting. My son, MHS class of ‘16, and I participated in the ribbon cutting and were among the first to officially travel on the new roadway. I took my daughter, MHS class of ‘13, through the tunnel on the night it opened. There were so many positive posts on social media that it makes me proud to have been a small part of such a significant project in our town.”

Calumet Avenue can regularly expect to see more than 41,000 commuters daily, according to the Indiana Department of

Transportation. Many have high hopes for the effects on congestion and traffic delays this ambitious project will have.

Town council members have already stated their intention to conduct a traffic survey in order to verify the results of this new project. Some community members, however, have their doubts.

“It took a very long time,” Mrs. Kristen Szafasz, history teacher, said. “I know the importance of not having too many people stuck by a stopped train. The underpass will provide a way for people to not get stuck. However, by the time they go under, get to Southwood, to get back to Calumet again, the train might be moving.”

While the full impact of this project is yet to be seen, its construction appears to have reached completion without any major delays or setbacks.

“The project ran very smoothly,” Mr. Chuck Gardner, town council member, said. “The overall cost of the project was about $27 million, however, through various state and regional partners, the Town of Munster spent approximately $5.5 million on the project.”

Adjusting in adversity DECA adapting to prerecorded competitions and new guidelines janai munoz

page editor

As the season begins, DECA starts to see an emergence of students who want to learn, inform and educate themselves and others, and compete with their peers. With COVID-19 cases on the rise, the members of DECA will not be able to participate with their normal in-person and hands-on interactions. The club also has new sponsors, Mr. Ryan Popa, business teacher, and Mrs. Joan Miller, special

education teacher.

Similar to every other club this year, in order for the team to continue, some accommodations had to be made.

These adjustments include recording themselves for competitions instead of meeting and role-playing with judges and not being able to go on trips to meet said judges.

“The DECA team is just trying their best to stay positive during this time,” Anagha Kodukula, sophomore, said.

“It’s not an easy year for anyone, but you have to embrace the advantages

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MAPPING IT OUT As Centennial Village construction continues, these are the future plans for its growth. “The extension of the 45th into the new Centennial Village development is very important to the future development,” Mrs. Wendy Mis, town clerk and administrator said.

graphic by chris perez

Even after being declared a “model for rest of Indiana” by Governor Holcomb back in 2019, there are still plans for the growth of this project into the near future, expanding 45th into the new Centennial Village Development.

“The positive spillover effects of this underpass are and will be the new developments, such as Centennial Village, that have and will come to Munster in that area for residents to enjoy.” Mrs. Valerie Zematis, assistant principal, said.

and stay grateful.”

However, this will not diminish the members spirit, but will only push them harder to qualify for State and Internationals. After districts have happened, the nerves have now settled and the DECA team is preparing for state starting on Feb. 16.

“This year I think all of us, especially those of us who qualified for Internationals last year, are even more motivated to qualify again because we weren’t able to go to Nashville in April,” Anushka Majety, junior, said. “This past year, I think for most people, has created a new perspective in which we realize that not everything is a guarantee, and we can’t take things for granted.”

All business Upcoming DECA schedule Feb 16 to 17

Windows for roleplay/oral presentation will open

Feb 18 to 19

All role plays and oral presentations due by

Feb 22 to 25

Testing days

Feb 28

Opening general session

March 1 March 3

Workshops, election session, special Awards and recognition session, new state officer

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infocus

munster high school crier — jan. 22, 2021

FoodofBank

Merrillville, IN 46410

219.980.1777

Food for thought Students bring to light the issue of food insecurity among students and their families alison lee, alexis perez and linda ramirez

copy editor, design editor, page editor

Pre-pandemic, 35 million Americans were either unable to get enough food to meet their everyday needs, or were uncertain when their next meal may be, according to data from

might downplay how bad it actually is,” an anonymous senior said. “A lot of kids don’t have food when they come home so they rely on the school to feed them and if someone can’t afford food, imagine how many other things are hard for them.”

the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

In response, Indiana schools Now, that number has doubled to 70 announced free lunch for all million. Munster is no stranger to food students at the beginning of the school insecurity. Many families have been year.

The School Town of Munster is struggling with food insecurity due to one of the many school districts that is financial issues, which have only been participating. exacerbated by COVID-19.

“It helped a lot because when I had The official definition of food reduced lunch, I would go so far in insecurity, according to Merriam(debt) because I wasn’t able to pay for Webster, is “the inability to consistently it,” Emily Guerrero, senior, said. “It access or afford adequate food.” Food helped, but there were times where insecurity can stem from several I still couldn’t pay, and that would factors such as low income, sudden be my only food for the day.

So you emergency expenses and living in a just had to deal with it.

So the free food desert. lunch helped a lot, because if there “Food insecurity is not just about being able to buy food, it is also about was any time where my parents accessibility,” Ms. Beverly Taylor, weren’t able to feed me, that Assistant Director of Dining Services, would be good enough for that said. “For instance, bad summer day. I guess it’s not healthy, but storms wipe out the crops across the I’ve gotten accustomed to one states. Now access is limited and cost is meal a day because of that.”

In addition to free lunches, going to be higher. Many people relate the Pandemic Electronic food insecurity to being homeless or unemployed but that simply is not Benefit Transfer, or P-EBT, the case. Lots of working families was sent out last spring during the simply don’t make enough money to pandemic when schools were closed adequately feed and families were their family.” struggling to put okay to struggle food on the table.

Lack of money It’s does not just the form financially. It’s okay to ask Itof atook mean literally not card and was having money for food, it’s okay to ask able to be swiped at all. It can also alongside other for assistance. mean that there is forms of payment Emily Guerrero to help families pay not enough money senior for groceries. to pay for food, since paying rent, medical bills or gas “The benefits are only available to money to get to work can be a higher families with students enrolled in an priority.

Indiana School and are eligible for free “It can be rough and I think people or reduced lunch,” Ms. Taylor said.

Requirements for P-EBT cards are based on income. However, there are several complexities and layers to a family’s financial situation.

“I wish they didn’t base things off numbers, because a lot of people are struggling right now,” Emily said. “If you actually calculate, there’s so much that needs to be paid. You need rent, you need bills, insurance and all that.

And the fact that the school looked at the number and was like, okay, she’s reduced—which is still a lot less than having to pay for lunch—they should still take those things into account.

And that’s the

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Lululemon leggings, as they assume everyone can relate, is exhausting.

Furthermore the lack of conversation and awareness about food insecurity has led to a stigma that food insecurity only exists in third-world countries, instead of being a concern for their own community.

“One time I went to the store, and I was trying to use the (EBT) and the cashier was like, ‘Oh, I didn’t know people still use EBTs,’” Emily said.

“That doesn’t sound like a big deal, but it got me so mad. It always stuck with me every time I used it. (It was an) insensitive thing to say. It didn’t help that I was using it at the Munster Stracks (because at) the Hammond one, you’ll find other people in need. And same with the East Chicago one. But it happened at Munster, and this is where Munster has this stigma. And that made me mad.”

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A conversation is needed in order to bring light on this topic.

When an open atmosphere is created, students and families can feel more at ease with their situation through conversations, knowing that they are not alone.

“I think that just because they go to the school doesn’t mean they have to try hard to fit into that standard of being ly ba well off,” Emily said. “It’s okay *For mor nks may acc e e food dr inform p to struggle financially. It’s okay t . ives, ch ation on eck an to ask for food, it’s okay to ask for nouncloecmal ents assistance. It goes down to pride, so people don’t want to talk about illustr ations same this. It’s okay to ask for help, because by ant hony y thing with oung you can’t do it yourself all the time. anything like food insecurity: I know kids don’t really openly talk it’s just a number. If someone’s telling to their parents, but they’ll hear stuff you they need this help, then just give it about how a parent lost a job and the to them, don’t just reduce them to how parent won’t talk to them about it. But much their parents make. Because it’s okay to ask for help. If you need what if their parents aren’t feeding anything, it’s okay to ask, and you them properly? This is the time for shouldn’t be afraid. Not everything’s growth; we actually need these meals.” like a Disney movie; you actually have Financial hardship not only take to work for things. If you’re not able to, a toll physically, but emotionally. you just have to ask and hope for the Overhearing parents whispering best. It’s okay to not have that pride. If about overdue bills, while also hearing you need the help, ask for it.” friends talk about their new car and

munster high school crier —jan. 22 2021

Coming to a couch near you

Released on Netflix head photographer

photographer

media covering what has been artistically crafted to create real emotion.

With movie theatres being closed or The second problem is more theconsidered unsafe, movies are being aters going out of business. This isn’t released via streaming services where because of the streaming services, you can watch from the safety of your though obviously COVID-19 plays a big home. role. It defiThis access to does “Some of our industry’s biggest nitely new films that were not help the set to be released in filmaker’s and most important already dying theaters is chang- movie stars went to work for the business. But ing the game, with greatest movie studio and woke in the midst of people like Chris- up to find out they were working all this intense topher Nolan, difor the worst streaming service.” distatse some rector of “Tenet”, directors still openly speaking Director Christopher Nolan, have hope. their views on the All in all talking to business insider subject.

I think that These streaming this shift to services are giving these directors big streaming will ruin the experience of budgets, and when they make some- movie watching. Watching a laptop thing amazing, the big company reaps screen will not give the same effect the rewards and releases it with a of sitting in the audience sharing the plethora of other media. same experience as others, feeling the This creates many problems for the scope of every shot, the sound of each film world, the most important being word being spoken and the feeling of an overwhelming catalog of lackluster being inspired.

Released on Disney+ Henry Hofferth

graphics editor

Disney Pixar’s movie “Soul,” takes you on a journey exploring the afterlife of a middle school band instructor attempting to fulfill his dream of being a jazz musician.

This movie attempts to tackle the very serious subject of death in a whimsical, yet serious, manner. I think it did an amazing job at entertaining and inspiring to live life in

Stre amin g pr Netf ices lix S u HBO bscr i Disn Max- $15 ption- $8 ey+. .99 $6.9 99 9

At the end of the movie, I felt an extreme sense of patriotism and felt like justice was served, but I was wondering what happened to Abbie Hoffman, Jerry Rubin, David Dellinger, Tom Hayden, Rennie Davis, John Froines and Lee Weiner. Then the screen freezes and boom—something every movie watcher loves appears—the “Where Are they Now” type ending explaining what happened to each member of the Chicago Seven years after the trial. Some were sad and others made you think that anyone can do anything.

Overall, I enjoyed watching “The Trial of the Chicago 7” and would recommend it to anyone that likes movies that involve crime, justice and the will to cheer for the underdog.

Max Lindenmayer

Chris Perez

the now, and to not take anything for granted, not even a leaf dissenting from a tree.

Technically speaking the animation was superb with very realistic life like camera movements, lighting and moments where you feel like you are right there along for the ride.

Also, last but not least, the score was magical, and every scene that took place on Earth was filled with jazz that captivated the viewer. In contrast each scene located in the limbo had a spacey-techno score to give each scene a feeling of wonder or suspense. Every character in this movie is imagined fully, and they feel like real people.

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The Trial of the Chicago 7

Crier staffers review movies released on streaming platforms

Soul

review

After being set to release in theaters in late September, “The Trial of the Chicago 7” came out on Netflix. The title automatically dragged me in since I am a fan of movies that involve crime and court cases. Not knowing what to expect from this movie, I started watching with an open mind.

From the start, I fell victim to cheering for the protagonists. The way the film depicted the protesters’ views on the United State’s participation in the Vietnam war and what the men on trial stood for made me want justice to be served properly and fairly. I was glued to my seat as the movie progressed with different challenges that had to be overcome.

Wonder Woman 1984 Released on HBO Max

Movie ticket prices Child prices (A Adult MC)-1 pr 0 Senior ices (AMC)- .69 $13.69 prices (AMC)$12.69

Chris Perez

photographer

The second rendition of the one and only star spangled heroine Wonder Woman film opened on HBO MAX on Dec. 25. The movie’s opening scene isn’t too much of an eyecatcher other than the massive CG shots and the visuals of the island Themyscira.

The time period change is when the whole movie starts to have a life of its own outside of the secluded island.

The aspect ratio change to a smaller yet more cinematic size helps distinctly tell the audience the time period has changed.

Plus, the color correction really puts a more artistic spin on the superhero genre. The blue and green palette really make the colors pop like they do in 80s media, along with the overall cheesiness of the film, the big food, gyms and the height of the American Dream.

As seen in the trailer, Steve Trevor is mysteriously brought back to life.

Being in the future gives him this never ending curiosity like Wonder Woman in the first movie.

Cheetah is the only villain in the film which is the film’s biggest weakness, the main villain is actually Maxwell Lord. Is where the story starts tripping over itself in terms of the plot.

His character is compelling in every way. From his tv personality to his troubled childhood, he makes the story more convoluted. This is added on to the constant exposition of the plot making the viewer seem almost unintelligent.

But other than that, the emotion in this movie is the one plot driven aspect that keeps the story alive, like the final speech Wonder Woman gives to save the world. The speech captivates the viewer but also the people in the film; it is heartfelt, honest and real. It encapsulates the film and ends it on a positive note, making Wonder Woman the savior once again.

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opinion

munster high school crier — jan. 22, 2021

From screen to scale opinion by Lana Salahieh

Content warning: the following media contains mention of disordered eating.

For 2021, my New Year’s resolutions include discovering and listening to a new album every month, using my agenda more and focusing on the things that make me happy. My New Year’s resolutions do not include falling for fad diets, buying into weight-loss pills or defining my worth based on my shape or size.

Diet culture is the belief that “thin” body types are the most desirable, valuable and healthy, even if the means of achieving this image is harmful and unhealthy.

All of us, in some form or another, have been victims of this toxicity. Unrealistic body standards were set since we were kids, forcing us to despise our younger “imperfect” selves, not knowing that the characters on Disney channel who were supposedly our age were played by adults.

Whether we realize it or not, we still face this culture to this day. From celebrities like Kim Kardashian promoting diet-suppressant lollipops to magazine covers in grocery check-out lines reminding you to “count your calories,” nobody is free from its reach.

As someone whose family has shelves upon shelves of dieting books and has personally endured a lifelong struggle with weight, I can say with certainty that the time and energy I wasted on wishing I could look like someone I wasn’t could have been used more efficiently. It has taken me seventeen long years to unlearn all of the toxic standards I’ve been surrounded by. To this day, the fight isn’t over.

Our society is obsessed with weight, but we can change that. In particular, one method is the goal of body neutrality.

Body neutrality is the idea that you don’t support either the hatred or adoration of your body. This isn’t to say that you can’t love your body, but rather that you don’t obsess over the perceived better versus worse parts of yourself. It allows you to stop the criticism from your own mind, shifting from dislike to an appreciation and respect of your body.

The only time we should sincerely consider losing weight is for health reasons.

Otherwise, any goal to “get into shape” should be set with the right intentions— to work for one’s own growth rather than to look like others. Don’t fall for the predatory ads targeting losing that “quarantine weight”—it only plays into this dishonest industry designed for us to fall and fail into a trap of life-long obsession.

cartoon by daniel nozick

EDITORIAL

An unpresidented situation

“We can now add January 6, 2021 to that very seen on Jan. 6. In order to have unification, we must short list of dates in American history that will address the root of the problem.

The juxtaposition of how this situation was handled live forever in infamy.”

This quote from Senate Majority Leader compared to the happenings of only a few months before is a conversation that cannot be Chuck Shumer depicts the weight ignored. On Jan 6, the nearly all white of the events that happened two Our take crowd violently forced their way into weeks ago. As Congress met the building, brutalizing anyone in to vote on the certification of The only way we can their path. In the wake of the events, the 2020 presidential election, five people died, including a Capitol hundreds of insurrectionists come together as a Hill police officer. In contrast, back trampled police officers and nation is by having difficult conversations in June, when peaceful protesters stormed the U.S. Capitol building. gathered in support of the Black Lives They marched to this location and understanding Matter movement, they were met with following a speech at a nearby beliefs that oppose physical violence from police officers.

Trump rally. Many were armed our own.

One such circumstance occurred with guns and tactical gear.

They vandalized and stole federal property, when police fired tear gas at protesters so that scaled the walls, and broke into Senate and Trump could deliver a speech at a church near the House chambers. Later, when the building was White House. While the police worked to maintain secured, authorities found gallows, a noose and control over the situation, it does not change the brutality that BLM protesters faced. The difference in two bombs.

To this day, there is still speculation about how treatment based on ideology and race is a hypocritical these events occurred. As it was happening, we double standard that needs to be evaluated. watched in horror as the mob of people stormed The preservation of our democracy by addressing past police officers who seemingly appeared to our differences is necessary to move forward as let them walk past. The police attempted to keep one. Both sides of the political spectrum share the crowd calm to prevent them from coming two alternate narratives that don’t interact with each other. Through the media we consume, and in, but were overwhelmed and understaffed.

The president’s role is meant to unify the the people we surround ourselves with, we place country, not divide it. However, it is important ourselves in “echo chambers,” hearing only the views to acknowledge that Joe Biden, as president, is we support. In order to move forward, it is up to us not the full solution to the deep rooted problems to interact with the information we don’t agree with.

CRIER Crier, Munster High School’s official student newspaper, may be reached via mail at 8808 Columbia Ave, Munster, IN 46321; via phone at 219-836-3200, ext. 3443; or via fax at 219836-3202. Crier is published through the Honors Newspaper Advanced Writing and Editing classes and extra-curricular involvement. Crier’s official website is accessible at www. mhsnews.net.

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Copy Editor Alison Lee Design Editor Alexis Perez Page Editors Reena Alsakaji, Gage Hoekstra, Josephine Mittelberger, Janai Munoz, Linda Ramirez, Thomas Zangrilli Graphics Editors Henry Hofferth, Anthony Young Head Photographers Max Lindenmayer, Cali Petersen Chief Photographer Madi Green

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munster high school crier — jan. 22, 2021

sports

7

Competitions on the horizon Winter Guard continues to persevere as the season adopts more changes alison lee

copy editor

The Winter Guard season has been underway since November, and a few major competitions are on the horizon. Despite the pandemic, Winter Guard has still been able to attend competitions in-person. They have had a combination of virtual, hybrid and in-person competitions.

“Covid has impacted our season in terms of traveling and our competitive arena. It’s also been difficult with student priorities shifting,” Coach Danielle Beaton said. “I’ve seen how the economical impact that Covid has had on certain families have caused high school students to shift from extracurricular activities to getting jobs to help support their households. We also have had to practice with masks and take more sanitary precautions.

We’ve been fortunate enough to still be able to rehearse and compete in whatever capacity we’re allowed.”

Safety is always of the utmost importance. Although COVID-19 presents extra steps to be taken and boundaries to overcome, Winter Guard still strives to perform at their best.

“I am extremely proud of them,” Coach Beaton said. “I don’t get to tell them enough because we are in training and I am pushing them as much as possible. However, I am very proud of each and every member on the team and I look forward to seeing where the show this year takes them.”

In the zone reena alsakaji

page editor

Yet again, the Boys’ and Girls’ Basketball teams practice fiercely for their upcoming games. Tonight, the girls are set to play against Highland, while tomorrow, the boys are scheduled to face off in a highstakes game against Hobart.

“We’ve been watching a lot of film, running plays that we think will be best against their defense,” Charlize Lorenz, sophomore, Varsity Girls’ Basketball player, said. “We have seen players that are their biggest threats and are studying how to shut them down efficiently.”

Undoubtedly, practicing has been a challenge, particularly regarding teamwork. Prior to COVID-19, many activities unpermitted today were a regular. The lack of this interaction has had a major impact on the teams’ game preparation.

photo by bailee dejarlais PREPARE TO PREFORM Practicing her jazz routine, Clara Zuniga, senior, prepares for the upcoming Munster Invitational. The dance team has high hopes and plans on giving their all. “We have been adding on practices to clean up both dances so we can compete them at the invitational,” Zuniga said.

Stepping up photo by cali petersen SHARP STANCE Practicing rifle in the WWMS gym this week, Jordan Garrison, junior, works to prepare for Winter Guard’s first competition on Feb. 6 at Franklin Central High School. “I am hoping for a longer season, since this year was cut short due to covid, to make new memories,” Garrison said.

Basketball prepares for games tonight and tomorrow “We have really been trying to improve our performance by shooting and fixing our pace,” Lily Mason, sophomore, JV Girls’ Basketball player, said.

“We’ve also been trying to work and practice better and harder as a team.”

On the boys’ end, the athletes prepare for their long-awaited conference game with Hobart.

“This group of seniors has never lost a conference game at the varsity level and have won three straight conference championships,” Coach Michael Hackett said. “Our goal is to keep those streaks going.”

The basketball season continues to face its ups and downs. Athletes are working hard to stay victorious in the matches they compete in.

“A lot of our games have been getting rescheduled which makes us feel excited for the upcoming weeks,” Trinity Hogge, sophomore, Varsity Girls’ Basketball player, said. “I just try to stay positive and keep on top of my game.”

Conquering the water Girls claim victory and boys face conference tomorrow

gage hoekstra

page editor

photo by max lindenmayer SWIMMING IN FIRST Competing in the 200m Individual medley, Hannah Robbins, junior, takes first at the NCC conference championship. “Our goals for the rest of the season are to win sectionals as a team,” Robbins said. “I also want to win the 200 Individual medley and make it to state.”

Officially entering their championship season last Saturday, the girls claimed victory at their Conference meet here at MHS. “Going into the meet, we as a team were all hoping that we’d win, but we just needed everyone to step it up and make it happen,” Hannah Robbins, junior, said. “At the end of the meet when

photo by anna evilsizor DRIVING TO THE BASKET Protecting the ball against Kankakee Valley at the JV game, Yaw Awuah, sophomore, tries to score a basket. “I was feeling like I gotta do something to help my team out or get something going,” Awuah said.

we found out that we had won, we were all just so happy.”

While the girls celebrate their triumph, the boys are still in full preparation for their Conference competition, scheduled for tomorrow. While in many ways this training may look similar if not identical to the way it did last year, the teams’ actual competitions have been quite different.

“The biggest changes to this season have been the meets,” Coach Dillon Thompson, science teacher, said. “With all of our COVID protocols, most meets have no spectators, and swimmers must maintain distance while also wearing masks at all times except when swimming their races.”

STAY CONNECTED SPORTS: Coach Pierie New Track Coach Exclusively online stories available at mhsnews.net

Dance team prepares for invitationals tomorrow while pushing through unprecedented challenges atarah israel

managing editor

With Invitationals tomorrow and preparations for the season in motion, the Dance team is ready to face the uncharted waters of this year. Despite the numerous changes they face this season, hosting the upcoming competition itself is a feat the team is not taking lightly.

“It’s definitely not the easiest thing ever,” Emmaline Miller, junior, said. “But it’s the world we live in now. I didn’t think we would see a competition, and I didn’t think we would see a basketball game or a football game. So I’m really happy to be there regardless.”

Competition season for has seen numerous alterations due to COVID-19 concerns, including much smaller audiences and a lack of in-person award ceremonies.

“Sadly, our own parents plus other team members’ parents are not allowed to physically watch us dance,” Mia Buono, sophomore, said. “The only way they would be able to watch is for the live fee. Our parents are usually the ones to cheer us on which helps us perform and hit harder. It is hard knowing that we won’t have an audience to cheer us on, but we will be just fine.”

To combat the changes COVID-19 restrictions have brought, the team has adopted alternative forms of practice, demonstrating their dedication to the sport.

“I think the girls had to step up and realize that we weren’t gonna be able to practice as much,” Coach Cynthia Banas, WWMS teacher, said. “So, they had to make better time at practice, be more efficient [and] make sure that when we’re at practice, we’re getting as much done as possible.”

Out of all the adjustments the team has had to make, one of the more integral elements that guide their success this season is outlook.

“I definitely think adopting a different attitude toward everything has been a major part, because we started off (the season) pretty late,” Miller said. “We definitely had to adopt that attitude of ‘it’s going to be okay. It’s not the same as we wanted, but it’s going to all turn out all right.’”