MHS Crier | Issue 3 | 10.29.2021

CRIER

oc t. 29, 2021 volume 57 issue 3

munster high school 8808

columbia

7:10 a.m. front of MHS

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LAUREN HOOGEVEEN page editor

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THE OF MORNING TRAFFIC 7:14 a.m. front of MHS

7:18 a.m. front of south lot

7:20 a.m. intersec tion of fisher & colum bia

munster,

PHOTOS BY ANTHONY YOUNG

ervously checking the time, Hannah Loredo, sophomore, sits in the car as it slowly lurches forward through the traffic on Columbia Avenue. Despite living two minutes away, she tends to make it to school with a minute left to spare.

Worrying about her attendance, she can do little but speed up her pace while walking to first period. Columbia Avenue, Calumet Avenue and Fisher Street are clogged with traffic almost every morning, starting at 7:12 a.m. From bus schedules to school start times, the traffic issues could be caused by a myriad of accumulating problems.

“I feel like the traffic is not something I should be stressing about as much as I do,” Hannah said. “I have to wake up so much earlier compared to past years, it’s ridiculous.”

Some specific problems that people have noticed are that buses go down Columbia Avenue after dropping off students, which slows down the line of traffic. Also, a majority of students get dropped off at door A, off of Columbia, even though door J is another option. The people who go to door A usually struggle with the fact that there are cars driving north and south on Columbia Avenue.

Watching the traffic unfold from her car, Sophie Salazar, sophomore, explained that the conflicts start when both lines try to turn into the front of MHS. “I usually leave 20 minutes before school starts, but due to traffic, I usually have only a few minutes to get to class,” Sophie said.

“Traffic is a big cause of my tardiness, and I tend to start my day stressed because of it.”

For students who live in neighboring cities and subdivisions at the far ends of Munster, the traffic has made it increasingly difficult for these students to arrive at school on time.

Occasional construction on Calumet Avenue and the bridge that connects Munster and Hammond on Columbia Avenue being closed has also affected student’s ability to make it to school on time.

“I’ve been living in Hammond all my life but I didn’t start going to Munster until sixth grade,” Kameryn Hubbard, sophomore, said. “My older sister, who is now a junior in college, has done the same, and traffic has only gotten worse. We sit in traffic for a minimum of 10 minutes. From being inside the car to just trying to cross the street, there is absolutely no direction with car or bus drivers.”

When discussing the issue, Officer Gabe Isenblatter, resource officer, mentioned that no one expected Munster to get as large as it is, with a population of 22,476 (as of 2019) and 7.637 square miles of land. A more feasible design, he explained, would be building the school so that Community Park and the football field would be switched, which would offer more parking for students. Since Columbia Avenue is a main road and MHS is next to Community Hospital, emergency vehicles and people on their commute to work also get involved with the school morning traffic.

Administration is aware of the traffic issue. Crier contacted Central Office to get information on any ongoing traffic investigation, but they could not be reached by press time.

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munster high school crier

SIDENOTE

MTC prepares for contest play Nov. 1, performed “Harvey”

Between putting on three productions of “Harvey” Oct. 15, 16 and 22, and rehearsing for their upcoming contest play, Theatre members have been busy with months of preparation. Despite fears of cancellation after MHS moved into stage 3 of the COVID-19 plan, Theatre was able to put on in-person productions of “Harvey” in the auditorium. The club competes Nov. 1 with their contest play “Fire Exit,” then will set their sights on Regionals.

“As a part of the technical side, The preparation for the play was always somePHOTO BY HENRY HOFFERTH SUBBING IN Working on her laptop, Ms. Jordan Symanski, permanent substitute teacher, stands in for ASL teacher Ms. Hannah Fus’ thing we’d improve with in each rehearsclass. So far in the school year, MHS has welcomed three new substitute teachers. “I would describe my experience (as a substitute al,” Leira Alvarez, senior and makeup artteacher) as valuable to me because after graduating I needed to focus back as a screenwriter (since) I majored in screnwritng, and sub- ist, said. “We’ve come a long way from the bing gives me the time for writing and working on my scripts,” Ms. Symanski said. first practice.” ers are not the only public school em- ning but it’s gotten really light,” Ms. ployees in shortage either—Indiana is Bermudez said. “It made me feel facing a teacher shortage, with around good knowing that I was needed, 87 percent of schools in the state re- and I was able to do something, and porting being short staffed in 2020. At to help. It made me feel that they MHS, the issue has corresponded to trusted me to be there.”

ATARAH ISRAEL substitute teachers, according to Mr. Teachers, substitutes and bus driveditor-in-chief Raymond Palasz, auditorium director. ers have received an increase in sala“For me, I don’t know if I would ry, a bonus that many believe may atAt approximately 6:30 a.m. Mr. Bob Simpson, bus driver, begins his morning, look at it as much as a teacher shortage tract more workers. Despite this, the clocking in for his shift. Between driving as I would look at it as feeling the ef- moments in between the job are what morning and afternoon routes, and taking fects of a substitute shortage,” Mr. Pa- make it most rewarding, according PHOTO BY HENRY HOFFERTH kids on field trips, his day is packed with lasz said. “Not having enough substi- to Ms. Jennifer Hill, bus driver.

“All the students are so polite and SHOW STOPPER Rehearsing for their contest greeting students, solving any conflicts tutes to help cover when teachers have play “Fire Exit,” Delaney Craig, sophomore, plays and, ultimately, making sure each child to be out for quarantining—whether so respectful,” she said. “I send them the role of Janice. Theatre will compete Nov. 1 makes it home safely. This responsibility they’re having to quarantine them- to school with a ‘good morning, have before preparing for Regionals. has only increased with the bus shortage selves, or they have children who have a good day’ and they reciprocate. If that the district has been experiencing, to quarantine and they have to stay they’re having a bad day and that’s with not only his route being personally home with them—that’s kind of where the only good part of it, and they affected, but roles of other bus personnel I have felt the shortage. Mrs. (Nikki) have a smile on their face, it makes Acting as a second callout meeting, Olson (main office secretary) is relying my day.” as well.

Jewish Culture Club The club held a “We don’t have any extra drivers,” Mr. on anybody in the building who’s meeting Oct. 21. Students watched preSimpson said. “We’re to the point where not doing anything to help cover sentations on important Jewish holidays, we have custodians and dispatchers driv- those classes.” and visited with each other over apples As of now, the school has hired ing, (and) our new manager is going to and honey.

Meeting dates for the future have to retrain the drivers. When you’re three new permanent substitutes, are to be determined, but the club plans short drivers, then sometimes you get reducing some of the stress expeto have a Hanukkah-themed meeting late people pressed into doubling up, or try- rienced towards the beginning of November. ing to get back (to the school) and taking the quarter. For Ms. Maria Ber“Our club is open to people who are an extra route. It can be a little challeng- mudez, permanent substitute Jewish and non-Jewish,” Mrs. Kelly teacher, the current demand for ing.”

Barnes, English teacher and club sponsor, The effects of the shortage have not substitutes, though bringing more said.

“We think that it’s important to unbeen limited to MHS, according to Mr. responsibility, had its rewards as derstand other people’s cultures because Simpson, who attributed the pandemic to well. it creates an open dialogue and conversa— MS. MARIA BERMUDEZ “It (covering for absent teachbe at least part of the reason why people tion about different cultural values and PERMANENT SUBSTITUTE are reluctant to take on the job. Bus driv- ers) was really bad in the begincultural expectations.”

Stopping the shortage

MHS manages bus driver and substitute teacher shortage

“

JCC continues, plans for immersive meetings

It made me feel good knowing that I was needed, and I was able to do something, and to help. It made me feel that they trusted me to be there.”

Clearing confusion

Slight changes made to rules this year; a breakdown of these modifications

JOSEPHINE MITTELBERGER business manager

Lockers

This year, lockers are back in use.

Last year, students had to drag notebooks, textbooks, folders and sports bags to each class, making backpacks heavier. Now that more students are in school and vaccinated, administrators feel more comfortable allowing students to use their lockers in between classes, according to Mr. Robert Snyder, assistant principal.

“I use my locker to keep heavy books I don’t need all the time, my lunch box and my winter coat,” Kate Krawczyk, senior, said.

“It’s super helpful so I don’t have as much to carry throughout the day.”

If students wish to access their lockers, the number and combination can be found in Power School.

Contact time

Contact time is available Tuesday. Recently, there was a misunderstanding among students that a teacher can issue detentions if a student does not attend contact time. However, this is only if a teacher has made a unique rule to their class.

“I think (contact time) can help me realize what the common mistakes are so I can preemptively address them,” Mrs. Samantha Schnitzlein, math teacher, said. “It also helps me get to know the students more.”

On top of teachers establishing better relationships with their students, some students have found contact time helpful to learning and adjusting to the eight period schedule.

“We’re learning eight periods of new material and that can get overwhelming,” Casey McNulty, junior, said. “I got my grade where I wanted it to be since I’ve been going in almost every Tuesday.”

Passes

Previously, some teachers adopted a digital pass system. However, due to a trend of bathroom vandalism, the importance of having a visible pass led to teachers using physical passes again. As a result, this year has brought an influx of handwritten passes. Since passes are a legal recording of students’ whereabouts, teachers have to record when a student exits, reenters and where they went.

Although passes have become more strict, it is only expanding on an established rule. In the student handbook, it states, “students who are issued a pass and fail to report to the specific location or use the pass to visit another location will be subject to discipline.” Additionally, students may not leave the lunch room unless they have a pass to the Media Center or the Commons.

These rules, despite their strictness, are only meant to protect teacher and students.

PHOTOS BY HENRY HOFFERTH AND ANTHONY YOUNG

PHOTO BY KRISTEN BAURAIN

CULTIVATING CULTURE At their Oct. 21 meeting Jewish Culture Club members watch a presentation on Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur and Sukkot.

Corrections

In Issue 2 of Crier, page 1, Kristen Baurain and Khusi Jhaveri’s names were misspelled. On page 2, the Backtalk question should read “September is National Breakfast Month.” On page 4, the main photo should be attributed as Emilio Cantu, senior, not Antonio Cantu. Also on page 4, Sierra Sweeney’s name was misspelled. On page 6, the subhead should read, “Now, with most teachers having experienced music during the ‘90s and students having not, the younger generation tends to judge it more now.” Crier regrets these errors.

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continued from page 1

The morning jam

“I think if more parents dropped their kids off in Community Park and had them walk across the park into the school, that would alleviate most of the traffic issues,” Officer Isenblatter said.

“Most parents seem to be reluctant to make their kids walk that distance and prefer to drop them off closer to a door.”

With the current traffic issues, students have had to wake up even earlier to make it to school on time. Kameryn mentioned that she leaves at 7 a.m. on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays due to construction. Another possible issue could be that school starts five minutes earlier, so people had to adjust. Other students say that the buses turning on Columbia Avenue after dropping off students, the middle school’s drop off protocols and the general flow of traffic are the root of the problem.

“I think with the middle school only being able to drop kids off by driving behind the high school causes for a lot more unnecessary traffic,” Otto Hoehl, senior, said. “The traffic has always been bad, but you just have to try and leave earlier.”

Another huge issue would be where Fisher Street and Columbia Avenue intersect. The turn lane is too short, therefore cars cram into the small area in an attempt to arrive at school quicker.

“It would be quicker to walk but it’s starting to get colder outside,” Ethan Loredo, sophomore, said. “I try to leave earlier but I still end up rushing. It’s frustrating because there’s not much I can do about the traffic situation.”

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Common causes of traffic jams in the morning On the map Human error 1

The turn lane into the south parking lot fills up quickly

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Both lanes of traffic turn into the same parking lot Buses dropping off middle school students before high school students

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Time crunch • •

Lookin’ fabulous Fabrication Lab opens as a resource for all clubs and classes LEXI PEREZ

design chief

Opened on Oct. 4 with the help of Project Green, private donors and the Wanger family, the Fabrication Lab (or, when shortened, the Fab Lab) is a resource room for any club or class to use.

To help with hands-on projects among the students, three MakerSpace managers have been appointed— Mr. Larry Hautzinger, science teacher and Robotics sponsor, Mr. Peter Frystak, robotics sponsor and

PHOTO BY EJ BOERSMA

IN THE LAB The Wanger Fabrication Lab officially opened Oct. 4, with representatives from the Department of Agriculture visiting the room for a Project Green presentation. “(For) part of the presentation we’ll definitely be going over what the school has been doing with Project Green over the last five years, but also introducing the next phase, because we’re up for recertification this year,” Mr. Mike Wells, principal, said. “The Wanger Fab Lab is part of that next phase.”

ILLUSTRATION BY KRISTEN BAURAIN

Tripping in traffic

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ILLUSTRATION BY KRISTEN BAURAIN

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The doors do not open until 7:10 a.m.

Buses take long to start moving from a stop

•

Drivers let too many cars in from cross sections Drivers get distracted and don’t move with traffic right away Drivers wait for students to cross the parking lot

New normal • •

Ms. Margaret Matanic, English teacher and Theatre sponsor. Once they are finished training, they will be able to train other teachers so they can carefully use the equipment provided.

MHS is now one out of about 500 Wanger Fabrication Labs around the world. The school will be able to communicate with other Wanger Labs to share ideas on what to do next.

“Once the three teachers are trained, we can unlock the grid (to collaborate with other labs),in order to connect with other schools around schools and industries around the world,” Mr. Mike Wells, principal, said.”

Not only are clubs like Project Green or Robotics able to take advantage of the room’s tools and machines, such as its laser cutters and 3D printers, but there are also accommodations such as sewing machines, culinary tools and a podcasting room.

Robotics is in the Fab Lab every Tuesday and Thursday for two to three hours. In addition to Robotics, the Fab Lab is also providing the Film Club with two rooms for their podcasts and Mustang News. The rooms provide a teleprompter and computer for editing Mustang News and the podcast room provides microphones and a soundboard.

“The last time I was there we were finishing setting up some stuff, and as of right now, it looks really nice for what we need to do,” Alyssa Sangueza, senior and vice president of Film Club, said.

To access the equipment, students will have to be with a teacher who has been taught by the trainers from the Museum of Science and Industry to show the students how to use the equipment safely.

“I think that Fab Lab is an amazing achievement for our school,” Antonio Cantu, senior and president of Robotics, said. “I absolutely love the new lab and all the amazing things to create anything we want.”

Students missed an entire year of driving to school because of COVID-19 New drivers may be inexperienced

Tools for sucess The variety of equipment that is avaliable in the Fab Lab for any club or class to use

3D Printers

Steel saws

Robotics Club uses the 3D printers in the Fab Lab to make: • Badges for competitions (team logos) • Robot parts

Robotics Club also uses the steel saws to: • Cut materials for their robots • Cut robot parts

Podcast room

Film room

Film Club uses the podcast room to create their podcast episodes. Some equipment they have includes: • Microphones • Soundboard

Laser cutter

Robotics Club uses the laser cutters to cut: • Wood • Metals • Engraving • Any other materials they need

Film Club uses the film room to record the Mustang News, completed with: • Backdrops • Chairs and tables • Camera equipment

Buzz saws Robotics Club uses buzz saws to make: • Their prop fields • Robot parts

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O C T. 29, 2021

O P INIO N

Aerial view of MHS from Fisher Street.

munster high school crier

Aerial view of MHS from Columbia Avenue

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This map depicts our first suggestion: guides directing the flow of cars entering the school at high-traffic areas, such as the entrance to the south parking lot off Fisher street.

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CARTOON BY KRISTEN BAURAIN This map illustrates the different doors available to enter through in the morning, as well as how half of the students could arrive 20 minutes earlier to stagger traffic.

EDITORIAL

Keeping the show on the road

icture this: You’re stuck in traffic on Columbia, lines of cars turning into the school parking lot one-by-one. You think you’re running three minutes late but, with a sudden drop in your stomach, you remember that school does not start at 7:35 a.m., but 7:30 a.m. Stuck in an onslaught of honking car horns, you have no other choice but to accept your fate—a tardy.

You sit at your car wheel, unable to do much more than move at a snail’s pace.

For many students this year, this scene has been all too familiar. A stricter tardy policy combined with school starting five minutes earlier every day has left students and parents pressed for time.

Though eradicating traffic as a whole may entail much more systematic effort than simply waking up earlier, there are a few substantial sugges-

tions that both MHS and commuters office and auditorium entrance. Using can easily account for. all available entrances, like Door J and 11. Have designated traffic guides. Door H would spread out the amount Having a person of authority outside of cars at each parking lot entrance, the school building everyday can alle- and reduce traffic in the South parking viate congestion leading directly into lot and near the main office. school parking lots. Not only 3.

3 Come to school on Columbia, but on Fisher earlier, or stagger arStreet and leading into the rival times. If you have South parking lot, cars are The town ever had the opportuoften stuck waiting for their of Munster nity to come to school opportunity to turn into the even five minutes earparking entrance, and rarely should invest lier than you usually have a fair chance to do so. do, you probably noin alleviating Having someone there to mitticed the nearly vacant igate traffic and organize the school traffic. streets, and easy flow of turning system can prevent traffic. Understandably long lines of waiting cars. so, as the minutes before the school 22. Enter through different doors in start time decrease, congestion increasthe morning. Likely due to eLearn- es. Specifically, our Crier traffic obsering last year, many students are not vations found that cars typically start aware of options other than the main stacking up at 7:12 a.m. Leaving your

house five or ten minutes earlier, even on late start days, can help you avoid some of the holdup.

On a much more organized scale, the school could explore the option of staggering arrival times for the student body, with one half arriving 20 minutes earlier than the other. This could easily cut in half the number of vehicles on the street at a given time.

Solving this issue is a tall order— depending on how creative you get, the solutions can be endless. Possible answers range from simply entering a different door in the morning, to using some of the $5 million provided to Munster from the American Rescue Plan to rearrange the town.

No matter the solution, integrating these changes can relieve some of the early morning stress of being helplessly caught in a wave of traffic.

In the pursuit of ignorance

American or an outsider.

The issue was I liked aspects of the other cultures I was raised in. For example, one aspect of Laotian culture that taught me a lot is how we eat food—all the dishes are in the middle and one takes what they need, leaving enough for the rest. It seems simple, but it teaches kids to be conscious of others. This sharply contrasts how children in the US are taught to think of themselves first, often seeing how their actions affect others independently. This led to my actions seeming out of place and weird in general.

However, learning the divisive effects of American individualism, I

and vaccines was ignored by many in order to make oneself more comfortable, putting others at risk of getting covid. Even in stage 3, many students fail to wear their masks properly.

Of course American individualism has been around longer than covid, but the response to let the individual figure out if their research is more accurate than scientific studies is quite absurd. Yet, this is a great example of how Americans would much rather put themselves before others under the ruse that this is normal. Apathetic is not normal, and it should not take personal anecdotes for people to respect others around them.

JOSEPHINE MITTELBERGER business manager

The monoculture that America promotes has been a divisive aspect of my life.

It made growing up difficult because it felt like I had to be a red-blooded

CRIER

OUR TAKE

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 219-836-3202.

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.

•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

cannot help but be grateful for my upbringing. Every time I open social media, look at covid updates or even go to school I am faced with the fact that America has turned the freedom of individualism and churned out a new interpretation—selfishness.

Personal independence has proven to be more important than the general welfare to many people, and it shows as they walk the halls of MHS. At the beginning of the year when masks were optional, not only did unvaccinated students not wear a mask, but there was only an influx of mask wearers when a bug was spreading around the school. The science behind masks

and should be either emailed to the editor (tahlee20@gmail. com), given directly to any staff member or delivered to the 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. Digital issues can be found on issuu.com. Crier is published 10 times a school year.

Ad rates and policies are available to anyone upon request.

Our Staff

Editor-in-Chief Atarah Israel Deadline Manager Alison Lee Photography Scheduler, Trainer and Equipment Manager Anthony Young, EJ Boersma

Graphics Chief Henry Hofferth PR Manager Gage Hoekstra Story Editor Reena Alsakaji Photography Expert and Source Manager Anna Evilsizor Business Manager Josephine Mittelberger Design Chief Alexis Perez Page Editors Lauren Hoogeveen, Sofia Sanchez Cartoonist and Photographer Kristen Baurain Adviser Ms. Sarah-Anne Lanman

S E P T. 17, 2021

munster high school crier

Clowns

Zombies

Once nothing more than innocent comedy relying on slapstick and buffoonery, horror authors and urban legend have in many ways turned clowns into creatures of nightmare. Those who weren’t exposed to clowns when they were young often find them odd and off-putting, while those who were find the portrayal of these tricksters from their childhood as psychotic killers to be absolutely horrifying.

If you’re interested in creating a truly terrifying Halloween scene, clowns, complete with horrifically grotesque wounds, unnaturally filed teeth and wickedly haunting smiles, are definitely your killers.

The skeleton’s more fleshy cousin, zombies can range from grotesque and appalling to dim witted and funny. While some zombie decorations can be truly repulsive to behold, popular culture often turns these once terrifying undead monstrosities into dimwitted and brain hungry buffoons. Whether you’re looking to make a truly terrifying haunted house or just for some lighthearted decorations, zombies are the way to go.

Whether you’re looking to make a truly terrifying haunted house or just for some lighthearted decorations, zombies are the way to go.

Fear factor Fun factor

Fear factor Fun factor

o k o y p S

s o a n e s

Skeletons Fear factor Fun factor

Spooky scary skeletons, the silly manifestation of death that have come to embody the spirit of Halloween. From crime scenes to undead birthday parties, skeletons serve as great props for any Halloween setup.

While not quite as frightening as some of the scarier decorations, the versatility of these fun creatures mean they can be used to create almost any scene you could think of. While fun and adaptable, skeletons are not often genuinely scary.

n e e c s s Crier reviews Halloween decorations from around town GAGE HOEKSTRA PR manager

PHOTOS BY HENRY HOFFERTH

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Werewolves Fear factor Fun factor

Half man, half beast, werewolves are a staple of Halloween decor. A classic creature of horror, werewolves possess a mix of human and monstrous characteristics, combining the stature of a tall man with giant canine teeth, blood red eyes and matted fur.

Invoking primal fears of a predatory beast, werewolves can be an absolutely horrifying addition to a Halloween scene. If you’re looking to add a real fear factor, these are your beasts.

MUNSTER GYRO Monday - Friday Show MHS Student ID to 3:00 - 4:30 PM receive 15% off Month of November 2021

Visit Crier’s website at mhsnews.net Follow us on Twitter & Instagram @munstermedia PARENTS: Celebrate your senior by placing an ad in the yearbook!

Design & purchase online at http://yearbookordercenter.com using school code: 3357

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O C T. 29, 2021

INF O C US

munster high school crier

PHOTO BY __

Which movie should you watch this Halloween?

ALISON LEE & SOFIA SANCHEZ

deadline manager and page editor

START HERE

PHOTO BY EJ BOERSMA & ANTHONY YOUNG GRAPHICS BY HENRY HOFFERTH

Do you like horror?

NO

“Paranorman”

YES

“ParaNorman” is an animated movie centered around a local legend of a curse: the walking dead. The hero of the film must conduct a ritual to stop the dead from rising, but fails. Zombies wreak havoc on the town as its citizens comedically fight back, and the hero and his friends work together to save their town—only to discover there’s more to the curse than they thought.

This scarily comedic animation has enough spooky vibes for Halloween, but remains light enough to have a laugh with friends or family. The eerily animated images of zombies struggling to hold their decomposing bodies together, compounded with a group of

Do you hate anything scary?

NO

pumpkin rating:

teenagers being, well, teenagers allows for comedic respite in between, bumping it up to a rating of three pumpkins.

The movie isn’t too silly that it lacks emotional depth and is not overly emotional to be considered sappy or cliché. The balance between its spooky, comedic and emotional elements do not degrade the quality of the movie.

However, I wasn’t mind-blown by the ending, limiting “ParaNorman” from receiving a full five star review and instead earning it four stars.

Overall, “ParaNorman” is a fun watch between friends or family who will not watch hardcore horror, but just spooky enough to enjoy Halloween night.

Do you like animation?

“The Conjuring”

lack of—the characters. The protagonist’s siblings discover they also have powers, but those powers are scarcely put to use. As the movie concluded, the protagonist’s conflict with her mother ended; however, the character’s attitude did not change. There was no lesson learned and she merely got what she wanted.

The overall combination of weak characters with little complexity amounts to a final rating of three stars.

If you aren’t a fan of horror films, I would suggest giving the “Halloweentown” series a try. Perhaps you will find the latter movies more engaging. These movies are perfect for those who are not fond of jumpscares while still covering your seasonal Halloween movie needs.

pumpkin rating:

NO

YES

YES

NO YES Another aspect that took away from the “Halloweentown”rating was the development of—or rather, The Disney movie “Halloweentown” follows the protagonist: a classic, angsty teenager who is in dismay that her mother will not allow her to participate in any of the traditional Halloween night activities.

An unexpected visit from her grandmother leads the protagonist to discover her family’s best kept secret: they are witches.

“Halloweentown” strays from the traditional Halloween horror movie and provides a whimsical adventure to another world. The movie’s plot is cheesy, yet unique and a bit eccentric.

Even so, the rising action of the movie is dragged out, not allotting enough time for the climax to effectively conclude. Within too short of a time frame, the protagonist saves her family on an abrupt whim. This caused me to subtract one star from the total rating.

Do you like jump scares?

“The Conjuring,” perhaps one of the most well known horror movies of recent time, is loosely based on a true story. The movie features a family that has recently moved into a haunted house. The hauntings begin upon finding a boarded up cellar and the severity shortly escalates when they are attacked by a malevolent spirit.

To combat the evil presence, the family enlists the help of a pair of paranormal investigators to save them before it’s too late.

First and foremost, “The Conjuring” is not for the faint of heart. The film incorporates a fair amount of jumpscares, perfect for horror movie enthusiasts. If you are not one who is accustomed to similar movies, “The Conjuring” will have you confined in a blanket and dreading the next time a scary, hair-raising moment will occur.

Each moment left me on edge and full of suspense for what would

happen next. As a result of the excellent execution of horror, I give it full stars in that aspect.

However, “The Conjuring” follows the classic horror movie plot: a family moves to a house, which happens to be haunted by some sort of evil spirit that possesses a character. For most of the duration, it follows the same predictable pattern as the traditional horror movie. For this reason, I deducted half a star.

All other aspects of the movie, in my opinion, were phenomenal.

The movie kept me entertained and engaged waiting for the final resolution. The actors did a wonderful job of creating believable as well as memorable characters.

My final rating of “The Conjuring” amounts to four and a half out of five stars.

pumpkin rating:

O C T. 29, 2021

munster high school crier

Falling into fashion Students adjust their style for the fall season and reflect on what fashion means to them

“I like trench coats and baggy ski more vintage items but I also dress pants,” Mary Potter, sophomore, said. more in trends. I like what I like.

As the seasons change from the “I don’t really like spring (or) summer That’s the best way I can explain it.”

As time progresses, fashion repastel colors of spring and sum- (fashion). I like muted tones, and I verts backwards. Students begin to mer to the more subtle, orange and don’t like the way that some (colorful) look towards popbrown colors of autumn, students patterns look togethular items in the begin to tweak their own style ac- er.”

When I was younger, I didn’t past. However, it’s cordingly.

In terms of idenwear a lot of trendy clothes. important for stu“I’m definitely a fall person,” tity, for Chloe SarkI started making friends who dents note what Lauralyn Courtney, junior, said. ady, sophomore,were, and they pushed me in they are truly buy“I love big sweaters, Doc Martens, fashion is not just the direction of “you can wear ing. Issues such as jeans—all of it. Once I found how the clothes put on whatever you want.” overconsumption I like to dress and started not car- in the rush of a ten — SARAH ESPIRITU and fast fashion are ing what people thought, I had this minute morning, JUNIOR increasingly relenewfound confidence.” but an extension of vant and maintainMany perceive fall as the great- who she is. Dresses, est time to express their creativity. skirts, but particularly Mary Janes— ing a sense of balance is essential.

“For trends I’ll think ‘Am I gonna Through layering, each turn of the allow her to express herself in a way wear this three months from now?’ year provides a sense of joy and she never had. For Chloe, fashion is And if not, I don’t buy it,” Hiba Faticomfort for eager students to try how she expresses her femininity. ma, junior, said. “I bought a pair (of and match.

“I grew up not being feminine at boot cut jeans) because I was like, ‘I “I love all,” Chloe said. “And being L really think I’ll like these,’ and I reis ted are som the color e fashion told I should not be. (Fashbrands tha ligiously wear them. With trends, t do not fo schemes (of ion) is definitely an outllow sustainable I try to be very careful. I think it’s practices: fall),” Sonny let, I think. I can’t real• really important to incorporate susSh ein Hoekstra, junior, ly express myself in any • Romwe tainability within your own sense of said. “Fall clothes • Fore other place really. I never ver 21 style.” are so comfortable • Boohoo expressed myself ever until 8th There is a sense of stability be(too) so I don’t • Fashion Nova grade, and then I was like ‘I’m • U tween expressing oneself in the most rb an Outfitters compromise going to do this every single Source: Zeitg creative way possible and preserveist warmth for looks. day.’” ing an awareness of quality versus Fashion for me is As different fall patterns and quantity—participating in trends a form of outward exprestrends emerge, the directions while being aware of the mark made. sion—but more than anything my they head in are becoming more proHow they create their style is considmood affects what I wear.” nounced than in recent years. OftenWearing whatever makes some- times, students follow a particular ered a sight to behold by many.

“I think it’s so cool how every one feel most comfortable is key to aesthetic, but many feel no boundarsingle person really puts their own self-expression. Blazers, cardigans, ies regarding their set look. twist on something,” Hiba said. “So crochet sweaters, plaid skirts and “I tend to switch up my style defor me, (fashion) is a lot about exleather—the rise of a new trend pending on the year,” Lauralyn said. pression and identity, because it’s each year serves the outlet that stu- “I feel like I’ve been more into the ‘90s always changing.

It’s constantly dents crave. grunge type of thing. I tend to dress evolving.”

REENA ALSAKAJI story editor

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What fashion aesthetic does your style most resemble?

1. What’s your ideal fall jacket? a. Trench coat b. Cardigan c. Leather d. Puffer 2. What’s your go-to accessory? a. A locket b. A small necklace c. Chains d. Beanie

3. What’s your ideal pair of shoes? a. Oxford shoes b. Mary Janes c. Tall platform boots d. Platform sneakers 4. What’s your ideal pair of bottoms? a. Dress pants b. Straight leg jeans c. Black skirt d. Baggy pants 5. What’s your ideal top? a. A sweater vest b. A simple lace top c. A black tank top d. A large T-shirt

Mostly a’s: Academia

Source: Cape Fear News Network

Whether it is light or dark academia, this aesthetic incorporates a preppy look revolving around studying, research, school and learning. The colors can range from brown, cream, white, gray, black, burgundy and rose. Your day-to-day wardrobe consists of plaid, ties, and turtlenecks.

Mostly b’s: Cottage

This aesthetic incorporates a sense of the simple life and nature. With colors such as light green, cream and white, your day-to-day wardrobe likely consists of a loose dress, overalls and a comfortable hand-knit sweater.

Clothes provided by Chloe Sarkady

Source: the Good Trade

Mostly c’s: Alt

PHOTOS BY HENRY HOFFERTH

(left to right) FALL SPIRIT Brielle Trull, senior, Hiba Fatima, junior, Chloe Sarkady, sophomore, and Sonny Hoekstra, junior.

The students reflect on their favorite parts of fall fashion. “There are so many things you could match with (sweaters and flannels),” Brielle said. “(Fashion) is usually the first thing people look at to understand who you are and it gives you an idea about someone’s personality.”

This aesthetic is considered fashion that differs from what is “typical.” This style of fashion is about wearing what you want. There is a wide range of what is considered “alt” grunge, goth or emo. With a color scheme of mostly black, your day-to-day wardrobe likely consists of fish net tights, a black skirt and silver accessories.

Clothes provided by Brielle Trull Source: CR Fashion

Mostly d’s: Streetwear This aesthetic incorporates a more comfortable look while still maintaining a sense of style. This sense of style has many subcategories, such as skating and other sports. Having a style with no set color scheme, your dayto-day wardrobe likely consists of a pair of baggy jeans, sweatshirts, a sports jacket and a pair of high top shoes.

Source: Zeitgeist

PHOTOS BY HENRY HOFFERTH

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INF O C US

munster high school crier

Seniors reflect on the college ess, c o r p n io t a c li p p a offer advice on the journey

GAGE HOEKSTRA

PR manager

From the first application, to the last acceptance, the college admissions process is one of both extreme stress and excitement. As soon as senior year begins, students are inundated with the knowledge that the decisions they make now will change the course of the next four years, and very likely the entirety, of their lives.

“The application process has been very difficult for me,” Maddi Bell, senior, said. “I have known what I have wanted to do since I was in elementary school, but ever since I have started this process I have been second guessing everything.

I am terrified of deciding the next part of my life right now and can’t help but to feel under-qualified since I’m just not sure who I’ll be in a few months, much less a year.”

More than anything, students say they have to find a way to make themselves stand out, giving admissions officers a reason to pick their name over another. Not only do they have to have the right credentials, extracurriculars, grades, and test scores but they also have to find a way to highlight what makes them unique without coming across as vain or self indulgent.

“I really struggle to find a way to make myself stand out in my essays without mentioning my grades, which for someone applying to the schools that I am, isn’t really that impressive,” Aishik Dhori, senior, said. “I definitely had to find some vulnerabilities in myself and then be-

PHOTOS BY EJ BOERSMA AND KRISTEN BAURAIN

come comfortable with expressing them in writing to tell a compelling story to the admissions officers.”

The application process is one of self-reflection and analysis, in which students must present a summary of their high school career, development and achievements in the hopes that an admissions officer will see them as a person worth having. This process has a way of putting things into perspective, and forcing applicants to ask themselves often uncomfortable questions: “What have I accom-

plished in the last four years?” “What was the work I put in really worth?”

“Am I a different person now than I was when I started this process?”

“What do I want to do with the rest of my life?”

“The application process is like reaching the summit of a four-year mountain climbing journey.” Emily Sun, senior, said. “I’ve seen the past four years as a landmark life moment; almost a final checkpoint before I venture off into the real world. It feels surreal to be applying to college instead of simply hearing about upperclassmen friends applying. But now that it’s finally here, I’m able to really step on that mountain peak and look at all the steps I took to get here.”

Applying for success

Types of application deadlines for colleges Early decision Rolling admissions Early decision deadlines are usually in November and students who take this route will normally receive a response by December. You may only apply to one school through early decision.

Early action

Early action deadlines are usually in November and produce a response by December. Early action is non-binding, but may give your application a slight advantage.

Regular decision

Regular decision is the most common and absolute final deadline. It is usually due in January or February and produces a response by April.

Schools with rolling admission deadlines will always accept applications until their programs fill up, often as late as the summer. College cues However, there’s a chance Quick tips to help you in of losing your spot or your application process • Ask your teacher early for a letter scholarship opportunities if of recommendation—many webyou enroll late, so it’s best sites suggest at least two months in advance. not to wait too long.

• Make sure to email your counsel-

Priority deadline

A priority deadline is a deadline by which your application will receive the strongest consideration for acceptance or scholarship opportunities.

or and teacher a copy of your senior profile or college resume for letter of recommendation letters.

• Websites like Grammarly are helpful resources for proofreading essays, but also make sure to have a teacher or friend read over your writing as well.

Sources: educationplanner.org ncapplyforcollege.org

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O C T. 29, 2021

munster high school crier

PHOTO BY HENRY HOFFERTH

Students and teachers discuss the effects of the internet JOSEPHINE MITTELBERGER

Adversely Affects Concentration in Students” from the Daily Collegian, as Whether it is a long rant about some people use the internet more frequentrecent drama on one’s “finsta” or a ly, they are likely to have a decreased blurry photo of one’s dog, it is forever attention span. People usually spend living on the internet. In the moment, mere minutes on websites, but this can cause lack of focus no one ever thinks The internet cuts up your and a build up of of how these actions are reflec- attention into small pieces frustration. Distractions on the intertions of the interof paper, like confetti. So net combined with net affect on their behavior. The in- everything is very shallow, one’s attention span waning often leads ternet has begun procrastination to shape ideolo- and covers a lot of things. to gies and actions as — KEVIN CLYNE and further lack of ENGLISH TEACHER motivation. it reaches younger “(My) attention generations. span (has been af“My ideas and fected). If you’re not my opinions on things are definitely shaped by the in- giving me this insane amount of conternet,” Evvy Kikkert, freshman, said. tent that’s always going, always ener“That’s where I learned about a lot of getic, it’s hard for me to stay on track,” Annabelle Spicer, sophomore, said. new ideas and concepts.”

According to multiple studies de- “(It’s) because that’s all I see on Youtailed in “Excessive Internet Usage Tube. There’s edits where somebody’s business manager

“

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talking, then there’s a noise effect and much,” Jocelyn Lemus, junior, said. then there’s a zoom in, or something “The biggest part of mental health for like that.” me is how you see yourself because Due to the tedious nature of school you see people and you think ‘oh my work, it requires large amounts of con- god they look perfect,’ but sometimes centration at one time, students find we compare ourselves to them, when relief in social media apps that are de- we shouldn’t.” signed for short bursts of concentration Students’ need for social validation like TikTok or Instagram. This makes is being exploited by large corporasome wonder—is this tion’s actions. purposeful?

While Students are inbaiting teens with troduced to the short attention spans, internet at youngthese apps simultaneer ages, and what ously lower one’s self they post on soesteem. This is especial media does cially applies to teen end up haunting girls: another study them, whether done by “The Lancet” it is malicious or shows that they are something small more likely to have that will follow depressive symptoms them. like low self-esteem “I had a Pinor less sleep comterest account pared to teen boys. that was from “What’s really unfourth and fifth fortunate is (students) grade and when base (self-worth) on you search up how many likes they my name it’s the get, how many peofirst thing that ple follow them,” Ms. comes up,” Evvy Koula Amanatidis Rasaid. “Everything doicic, computer scithat I really liked ence teacher, said. “It when I was in shouldn’t be an issue fourth and fifth of who follows you, grade is there, so you should have the it’s embarrassing attitude that you’re stuff.” confident no matter Though some what, and I’m scared PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY HENRY HOFFERTH things are light and I worry for the BACK TO THE PAST Scrolling through hearted, the inyoung women. (So- Snapchat, Carsyn Sobczak, senior, sees an ternet still has cial media) has given old photo from a Halloween party two years damaging asthem the wrong idea ago. “I just don’t like (Snapchat Memories),” pects to mental of who you should Carsyn said. “It’s just kind of embarrass- health, and that ing. Especially if it’s someone I’m no longer is what younger be.” friends with because that’s awkward.”

With scandals surstudents tend to facing, like the Facefocus on. Stubook whistleblower exposing the app’s dents don’t always feel comfortable harmful effects, more research has reaching out for help or know their come to the public’s attention. For ex- limits online. ample, Facebook’s own research shows “There’s got to be reasons for why that use of Instagram has caused worse we’re seeing this influx in kids that eating disorders and suicidal thoughts are struggling with health,” Mrs. Katie in teen girls. This is forcing students to Harris, math teacher, said. “(Kids need have to individually monitor their so- to) find a trusted adult that they can cial media intake. trust and talk to about any of that. We “Sometimes it’s good to just take a can help; there are professionals that day or two off (social media). I know, know how to deal with this. I hope that for me at least, this summer getting part of the good of the internet is that off of social media has helped me so you get the support that you need.”

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10 MORTON, SROKA O C T. 29, 2021

S P O RTS

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WIN STATE RUNNER-UP Boys’ Tennis season concludes following State, two members win Doubles runnerup at State Individuals REENA ALSAKAJI

story editor After fighting long and hard to meet their goal of qualifying for State, the Boys’ Tennis season comes to an end. Overall, the team had a successful season, entering with a record of 17-4. At State, partners Charlie Morton, senior, and Daniel Sroka, junior, qualified for Individuals and won runner-up.

“I definitely proved even further to myself that in the worst times I can still come up on top and keep battling,” Morton said. “(At State), we had many moments where we were down on ourselves and we weren’t playing well. We were down where if they (the opposing team) won the next point they would have won the entire set. So, to come back from that is a really big mental win.”

At the beginning of each season,

Making it count

the boys set goals for themselves.

Initially, it was to be undefeated in Northwest Indiana, then to continue the State record for sectional titles and to conquer Regionals before moving onto State. Holding the title of Sectional, Regional and Semi-State champion, the team ends their season with pride.

“Since my sophomore year we’ve been down to State,” Ryan Muntean, senior, said. “(Being on the team) just represents all the hard work I put in.

(When I’m playing), I think of everything I’ve done to get to that point, and I’m pretty nervous when I play, but I try to push past that and think of what I did to get there and what I need to do to get past this opponent and win the match.”

Through the challenges faced at State as well as the preparation, the team formed a tighter bond. With

Daniel Sroka, junior, and Charlie Morton, senior, practiced for State Individuals “It was a crazy experience being in the State Championship. We played well but came a little short of our desired goal.”

— DANIEL SROKA JUNIOR

“You can’t play perfectly but you can play close to it.

(At State), there’s nothing, there’s no regretting moments.”

— CHARLIE MORTON SENIOR

PHOTOS BY EJ BOERSMA

PHOTO BY EVNEKI CRENSHAW

SYNCING UP Taking a break after a set, Charlie Morton, senior, and Daniel Sroka, junior, practice after school. Morton and Sroka would eventually go on to compete at State and win State runner-up. “When I’m playing, I think it’s mainly just in the moment, you can’t really think about anything else,” Morton said. “If you focus on the ball, you can’t really go wrong.”

daily practices each day after school, the team formed a community with a common goal in mind. Through post practice dinners and mini tournaments within the team, they were able to bond with one another. For some members, being able to attend State and even simply being part of the team was not just a goal, but a unique experience tying the boys together. “(Being on the tennis team) means everything,” Morton said. “It’s a family, and I don’t know what I would do without them. I know (with) any one of those players on the team, I can call up and ask for help and they’ll be there.”

Despite the team’s loss at State as a whole, the accomplishment of making it to State reflected the hard work by the boys all season. The team had work to fix from the year prior, according to Coach Patrick Spohr, Wilbur Wright P.E. teacher, but since the beginning of this season, the team felt a taste of victory.

“Our overall goal (was to) make it to State,” Coach Spohr said. “On the back of our practice shirts, we have the outline of the state of Indiana with a star in the middle with the words ‘BOUT TIME’ above it. It (was) always about getting to State no matter what team (was) in our path.”

The very last mile Boys’ Cross Country competes at Semi-State, ends the season as Regional Champions following team challenges been able to put a full team at once during the season,” Lineditor-in-chief denmayer said. “We were able Despite a shaky start at the to have that for this Regional beginning of the season, Boys’ and Semi-state.”

Cross Country Having ended their seato adjust It’s nice when (I’m) son with all sevto injuries running and every open en varsity memand on top spot there is a person of a coach bers competing at their Semi- along the sides cheering. change, the state meet Oct. When the race gets team grap23. The team mentally tough, cheering pled with was confident in helps you get through it. the loss of their success for their Sec— RALPH BROWN tional, but the rest of their SOPHOMORE postseason, acmanaged cording to Max to win the Lindenmayer, senior and capfollowing Regional meet Oct. tain.

16. The sudden change in had “The team (was) just runcoaches ultimately benefited ning really well in our workthe runners. outs, and we just had not “At the beginning (the sea-

ATARAH ISRAEL

“

son) was sort of lackluster,” Ralph Brown, sophomore, said.

“We weren’t performing to our ability at first, but we started to peak at the right time. We’ve had a good postseason. Coach (Scott Stalbaum)’s training for sure helped us. Just getting back into training, back into the swing of things, was largely (due to) coach.”

With a strong postseason under their belt, Boys’ Cross Country is confident in their future seasons and their ability to work together as a team.

“Up to this point, it’s all been a team effort,” Ian Smith, sophomore, said. “We started off a little slow, but as the years progressed, we’ve just gotten more used to it and have just been able to progress more.”

PHOTO BY KRISTEN BAURAIN

THE END OF THE LINE Bursting into a final sprint toward the finish line, Gabriel Tienstra, senior, finishes out his Cross Country career at IHSSA Semi-State. After a long season of hard workouts and high placement at meets, winning the title of Regional champions, the team’s season came to an earlier-than-expected end.

“As a whole I think we knew that at the end of our race that we let the nerves get to us and tried our hardest, but didn’t reach our goal,” Tienstra said. “We still knew we did great overall this season and we learned a lot from each other.”

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Making an exit

munster high school crier

S P O RTS

As fall sports come to an end, athletes reflect on the ATARAH ISRAEL & LEXI PEREZ season, train for postseason editor-in-chief & design chief

Boys’ Soccer

Volleyball

Boys’ Soccer finished out this season as Sectional champions Oct. 14 with a final record of 13-5-1.

The team is unanimously proud of their performance and teamwork displayed throughout this season.

However, this season came with its fair share of obstacles. Losing 15 players from the previous senior class presented a significant challenge for the team. Facing the difficulties ahead, they advanced to Sectionals and ultimately returned victorious.

“I think it was pretty incredible that we were even able to be Sectional champs,” Aleks Maric, senior, said. “When all the other schools saw that we had a large senior class graduate, they thought we (wouldn’t make it) because all those seniors were gone and they were our main varsity core. For us to be Sectional champs two years in a row and turn it around with all PHOTO BY ANTHONY YOUNG those kids graduating, it’s pretty USE YOUR HEAD During the Boys’ Soccer postseason competition against Chesterincredible how the season ended.” ton, Gianluca Scalzo, senior, clears the ball with his head.

Coming to an unexpected end, Volleyball ended 304. During their season the girls had a winning streak of twenty-two. They won the first round of Sectionals against Morton High school in three sets on Oct. 14, and won Sectionals on Oct. 16 for the fourth year in a row, advancing to Regionals.

Unfortunately they did not beat Penn High school ending their season as conference and sectional champs.

“I feel like we would have gone farther, but we did really work hard this season,” Isabella Boleski, junior, said.

“I feel like we’re all proud of ourselves.”

Record: 13-5-1

Girls’ Soccer

A SPEED SERVE Serving the ball, Emma Miles, senior, starts off the next point.

PHOTO BY EJ BOERSMA

Girls’ Cross Country

Record: 6-10

With a record of 6-10, Girls’ Soccer ended their season with members eager to use lessons learned from their losses for the future.

Despite losing 11 seniors from their previous season, the team’s development throughout the season was impressive, according to Kenna Teske, co-captain and senior. For their next year, the girls look forward to facing off against Highland once again.

“We had a rocky season overall,” Teske said. “Obviously our record wasn’t great. (But), if you were to look at us from our first game to our last game, the way we improved was astronomical.

(For next year I want the team) to beat Highland, because I don’t want them to lose again.”

Record: 30-4

SCORING SCREAMERS Tossing the ball into play, Piper Swope, junior, sets her teammates up for a goal. “The soccer season was probably the most family and team I’ve felt in a while,” Piper Swope, junior, said.

PHOTO BY EJ BOERSMA

Though their season ended for most at Regionals, individual Girls’ Cross Country members trained throughout their postseason. Riley Jorge, sophomore, Mary Buck, junior and Kristen Baurain, senior, individually qualified for Semi-state Oct. 23.

During the season the team grappled with coach changes, yet managed to overcome this transition and succeed in their Sectional meet.

“Overall the season was full of a lot of ups and downs,” Jorge said. “We started off behind getting our coach late, but we really grew as a team. I think the whole team was upset about the season ending—we’ve all been together since July and not seeing the whole team everyday is really sad.”

A STRONG START Sprinting off the start line, Mary Buck, junior, begins her Regional cross country race. Girls’ Cross Country finished off their season at Regionals.

PHOTO BY KRISTEN BAURAIN

Football

Record: 3-6

Football faces Hammond Central in a playoff tonight, maintaining a record of 3-6. With practices adjusted based on the teams the boys face, their main focus has been on individually improving each player’s offense and defense. The team’s two wins and one forfeit game this season were a boost in confidence for them, and has given the boys the straightforward goal of making it to Sectionals and beyond, according to Alec Castillo, junior.

Today the boys have their Semi Final Playoffs at Hammond Central High school.

“I think we have a good shot at winning,” Castillo said. “I feel like PHOTO BY KRISTEN BAURAIN (the season’s) been going pretty well.

TERRIFIC TOUCHDOWN Celebrating, Steve My favorite part (of being on the team) Mavrak, junior, throws his hands up after has been being able to play with my scoring a touchdown against Lowell. teammates and having a good time.”

Girls’ Golf Record: 5-1

The girls had a few goals going into the season, like winning First Team All Conference—meaning they were announced the best players in conference—as well as scoring as low as they could at Sectionals and Regionals.

“I do think we achieved our goal.

We placed second in Sectionals and all five girls were first-team All Conference. We also had so much fun this season while doing our best as a team,” Emma Gossman, co-captain, senior, said.

They finished their season with 5-0 in Conference but fell short at Regionals.

PHOTO BY RILEY RAMIREZ “We also had the goal of going to PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT Kneeling down, Cate Stephan, sophomore, aims state, but unfortunately that did not before attempting to putt the ball into the happen,” Gossman said. hole during senior night.

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S T U DE NT LIF E

munster high school crier

BACKTALK

Which scary movie do you think you could survive, and how?

“‘Scream’ because “‘Quiet Place’ I never pick up because I am very any phone calls quiet in school.” even if I do know the number.”

—Eva —Erica Olsen Franco freshman freshman

PHOTO BY ANTHONY YOUNG

RACKING IT UP Working at Discovery Clothing store in Highland, Myanne Zachary, senior, sifts through and organizes clothes on a rounder. She works from four to nine everyday, helping out around the store when necessary. “I’m just organizing two ways and rounders, putting clothes on mannequins, taking clothes off mannequins, helping customers get what they need,” Myanne said.

Busy bees

With their experience, Gabe, Jilli and Myanne impart some advice for any students considering a job, or newly employed students.

“Never let anybody tell you what your work is worth,” Jilli said. “If you think you deserve a raise, you deserve the raise. Don’t ever let anybody count you short for your hours; don’t let anybody ever take ensures that he plans his week when advantage of you. You have the he receives his weekly schedule. ability to put your foot down. Never “If I were to see that I’m working on let anybody tell you that you have to a Thursday, then I know that night I’d do something—you don’t have to do have to get more work done at night, anything. If the company is going to and I’d have to go to sleep a lot later,” struggle because they’re short staffed Gabe said. “It’s more just mentally and they need you to come in, tell preparing throughout the week. I them to hire more people. That’s not know these days I’m gonna have to be your issue.” ready to work all night.”

Not only are setting boundaries Jilli ensures that she schedules in free important, but knowing what your time to maintain her mental health, boundaries are is important as well. and sets boundaries on when she can “Lighten your school schedule at and cannot work. least to the extent you think you are “I don’t work (weekends),” Jilli okay with it,” Myanne said. “Make said. “It was bad for sure that your my mental health. I job will be needed to have some Myanne Zachary’s schedule flexible when fun, so I worked all it comes to Wake up at 6 a.m. during the school scheduling.

I week. While it makes know anytime Drive to school school a little harder, I request any if I can’t have fun on time off, if it’s School from 7:30 a.m. to the weekends, then for school, my 2:50 p.m.

I lose my balance. If management Drive home I can have one day gives it to me Eat, change and leave at during the week to automatically. work hard towards, Don’t get a job 3:20 p.m. it keeps my cycle in your junior Work from 4 to 9 p.m. going. If I don’t have year, I would anything to look leave jobs for Close the store and leave forward to, then I lose senior year as at 9:30 to 9:45 p.m. all my motivation.” long as you Get home at 10 p.m. and Despite the lighten your do homework until 3 a.m. challenges, employed load, but you’ve students have also figured out Sleep and repeat gained knowledge how it works.” and experience that Despite the school may not teach them. obstacles having a job may present, “It’s taught me persistence because persistence will result in acclimation, it really does wear you down and soon the challenges will not be mentally,” Gabe said. “You just have to as overwhelming. be persistent on the goal that you do “The job always starts tough when want to be successful and part of that it comes to schooling, but once you is knowing you’re going to have those get the hang of it, it just feels more times where you’re sleepless or know scheduled and more accustomed,” that you have a lot of work the next Gabe said. “It always starts rough, day you got to catch up.” but it gets better.”

Employed students discuss how they handle school and covid ALISON LEE

deadline manager Get up. Go to school. Rush home.

Eat. Change. Drive to work. Get home around 10 p.m. Do homework until 3 a.m. Sleep. Repeat. This is a typical day in the life of Myanne Zachary, senior and employee of Discovery Clothing. Having a job already has its own struggles; covid has only added to employed students struggles with the recent worker shortages.

“We’re extremely short staffed all the time and people are not reliable,” Jilli Childs, junior and a food runner at Briar Ridge clubhouse, said. “They will not show up for their shifts because it’s such a low criteria for hiring now.

They’ll hire whoever, so it’s not reliable people you’re getting.”

The resulting impacts of worker shortages can lead to extra work and stress for students with jobs. Employed students already find themselves not having sufficient time to do everything they need to do. This can lead to lack of sleep, performing worse in school or increased stress.

“I didn’t have a job last year and I was still going to bed at 3 a.m. So I can either be up all night on my phone and go to bed at 3 a.m., or I can be doing schoolwork and go to bed at 3 a.m.,” Myanne said. “I definitely get stressed out more than I did before. Before, I was like, ‘Oh, you have all this time to work on it.’ So even if I worked at 3 a.m., I never had such a long period of stress with it. I knew it was by my own design what time I worked. Now, my time isn’t really my own anymore.”

With such constrained time, employed students must prioritize certain activities and make sacrifices.

Each student develops their own system in order to accommodate their needs. Gabe Tienstra, senior and assistant manager at Dairy Queen,

A day in the life

“‘Halloween’ because I could just not go into anything that looks suspicious, creepy or an obvious trap.”

—Benny Torres sophomore

“I could survive ‘IT’ because the clown was not scary.”

“(For) ‘IT’ I would just destroy the house and well, and pop his balloons.”

—Jim Ferguson junior

“‘Texas Chainsaw Massacre.’ I would just run him over or just drive away.”

—Garret Pazdur junior

“‘Halloween’ because surviving Michael Myers would be iconic.”

—Will Moell senior

“Probably ‘Scream’ because you could just bring a gun to a knife fight.”

—John Linnane senior

“I would survive any movie, because if I hear something, I will not go investigate.”

—Mrs. Kristin Laflech business teacher

“Physics would get me out of every sticky situation. . . oh wait, that takes too much time.

None.”

—Mr. Keith Koszut science teacher

—Jasmine Wegman sophomore