oct. 2 2020
CRIER munster high school issue two | volume 56 8808 columbia ave. munster in, 46321
IN GOOD SPIRITS
Navigating 2020 has been one of the biggest challenges Gen Z has encountered. In the face of adversity, we stick together to figure out how to keep each other afloat. In any other year, Homecoming week was just a week where school spirit shone through quirky costumes, student section chants at football games, and the buzz of being packed shoulder-to-shoulder on the dance floor. Now, the meaning of Homecoming has changed, for better or worse. This year, Homecoming means more than just pulling on a pair of neon green leg warmers and calling it a day. This is our first milestone in the school year. It is a beacon of positivity and hope in these dark times. It is a reminder that we are still teenagers amid the seemingly catastrophic climate of a changing world, but that we are allowed to have a little fun along the way.
Read more on pages 4-5
TOP OF THE CLASS Amber Payne, junior, conversing with fellow peer at lunch (top left) MATERIAL WORLD Becky Jones, senior, dresses as a barbie doll (top left) EYE OF THE TIGER Katie Hemingway, senior, dressing as Carol Baskin (top center) FRESH LOOK Juan Olivencia, senior, dresses in cap and robe (top right) SENIOR CITIZENS Maureen Van Matre and Kailyn Oganovich, seniors, posing for a photo dressed as elderly women (top right) POWER COUPLE Sarah Resch and Dori Clousing, seniors, dressing as Mr. and Mrs. Barnes (center) SWIMMING ALONG Andrew Forzt, senior, studies Pre-Calc in shark costume (above left) GAME DAY Blake Siurek, junior, wears Sox jersey for jersey day (above right) BABY ON BOARD Emma Phillips, senior, dresses as a character from “The Hangover” (bottom left) FEELIN’ LAZY Charlie Mason, junior, converses with peers in his groutfit (bottom left). Photos by Francis Hovland, Anthony Young, Cali Petersen, Todd McKechnie, Mia Terek, Lana Salahieh
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news
munster high school crier — oct. 2, 2020
Ethics and Equity
sidenote Culture Cuisine Club hosts first call out
Discussion on testing obstacles brought on by COVID-19 alison lee
copy editor During the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, schools are in full-swing. Education this year has taken on a new road, and all schools must make certain accommodations and changes to students’ education, and testing has not been left unimpacted. “There are many difficult aspects to exams this year,” Mr. Dillon Thompson, AP biology, biology, and chemistry teacher, said. “Some of the most important ones are ensuring that all students have equal access to the exams and resources while also preventing cheating or sharing of materials.” Cheating has become a growing concern among students and staff, due to the difficulties in supervising eLearners. “When it comes to cheating prevention, students still need to abide by our academic dishonesty policy. In-person or virtual, pandemic or not, cheating is still against our policies,” Mr. Thompson said. “Students need to be honest and learn the material.” Ensuring an equitable education for all by preventing cheating comes with its own difficulties. Teachers have stepped up to these challenges by adhering to new ways to assess. Many teachers are creating open-note tests, making their own test questions, using exam login, and utilizing more project-based assessments. However, the school remains flexible as to how each class functions during these times. “The fundamental questions
PSAT prep When, where and why to take the PSAT When For in-school students the PSAT will be administered on Oct. 14, while eLearners will be expected to complete the exam on Oct. 29.
Where All students will be expected to take the PSAT in school. Additionally in-school students will be given the eLearners exam day off and vice versa.
Why In order to participate in concurrent enrollment classes, have access to high ability consideration, or be eligible for the National Merit Scholarship program, students must complete the PSAT. Unfortunately, there is not an alternative method for administering the PSAT. Mr. Mike Wells principal
graphic by henry hofferth
remain, though, about what should we follow along. So I feel like in-person assess and how can we fairly assess people definitely have way more of it when teaching in two different an advantage when it comes to the environments,” Mr. Robert Snyder, learning aspect.” Assistant Principal, said. “I wouldn’t The focus should not be on just say that there is one right way to do cheating, but on learning. At-home this, especially since content areas can students may be able to cheat easily, but differ so much in what they are trying the question stands if they will forego to accomplish, their education so I think it is for grades. School important to If we teach students content is not just about listen to our but don’t reinforce integrity, grades, but rather teachers to see then we are doing our students growing to be an what supports educated student and families a disservice. they need with standing Mr. Robert Snyder morals and ethics. so that they Assistance principal “If can equitably we teach perform their students content jobs.” but don’t reinforce Each classroom has its own integrity, then we are doing our difficulties, and testing is just a part students and families a disservice,” of it. Although cheating at home is a Mr. Snyder said. “We are charged with major concern, eLearners have their both. Our families create a wonderful own difficulties. For example, hands- moral footing within our students, and on classes such as physics, have it is our task to reinforce and buttress their own challenges in providing an that with our expectations and policies. equitable education for both at-home I think all educators hope that they and in-school students. are framing a world with high morals “I would say doing physics this and ethics and that we contribute to year has been really hard,” Anagha that one day, one assignment, and Kodukula, sophomore, said. “It gives one student at a time. In return, we a ton of labs and the eLearners can’t are rewarded by seeing how brilliant even do the labs. So to answer the the future can be. For students, it’s question to get the measurements, one thing to avoid what’s wrong, and we have to rely on people that actually it’s another thing entirely to do what’s are in the class, and it’s so hard to right, or just.”
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A push for inclusivity Founders discuss reasoning and mission behind newly formed club alison lee
copy editor
African American Culture Club is one of many new clubs created this year. Jaelyn Williams, senior and president of this club, founded this club with several goals in mind. “When I was a freshman, I came from a private school that had a majority of black students. It was really weird coming to Munster because it’s not really diverse at all,” Jaelyn said. “There were no Black students. There were no Black teachers. It was different for me. So after experiencing that, freshman year in high school, having the culture shock, I just felt like there needs to be a space for Black students to talk about their experiences, and just share how they feel in their environment, because there are so few of us.” Not only is it important for Black students to have a community through this club, but it is also important for other students of all kinds of backgrounds and races to learn to
accept one another. “Imagine if the roles were reversed,” Jaelyn said. “Imagine if you think about saying something, or you think about acting some type of way, imagine if somebody else, whether it be of a different race or a different religion, was to do the same thing about your race or your religion or gender. How would that feel? How would you react? Or how would it affect you? And then just think about, like, you’re giving that off to someone now?” Jaelyn has had many meetings with co-vice presidents Taylor Graham and Uyai Edet and public relations officers Sydni Branch, Zahrya Grimes and Aleena Mongerie, and they have decided on a plan. “I just want the club to let people know, at Munster, the things like how other people who are different races might interpret their actions, whether it be just simple stereotypes, blatant racism, or other things like that,” Jaelyn said. “I want to let people know how that might affect someone.”
Juniors Maddi Bell, Emily Sun and Jonny Bryson-Harvey, have partnered with Mr. Larry Hautzinger, physics teacher, to create a club aimed for students who are interested in experiencing and learning about other cultures. The cuisine club will educate on the people and customs of the world through the universal means of food. “Emily and I had the idea to create a club that allowed for various cultures to be shared and expressed to the school,” Maddi said “While Jonny had the idea to introduce a culinary aspect to it.” The first meeting of every month is a presentation of the explored culture, while the second is partaking in common music, games, and dishes. The call out meeting was held yesterday Oct. 1 in the LGI, additionally available on Microsoft teams for eLearners to join. “The eLearners will probably not be able to take part in the food eating, but we are considering having some at home cooking classes in order for them to get the full experience of the club through food,” Maddi said. For any further information on the new club, please contact Maddi through her school email.
Film Club starts its first year
photo by henry hofferth
FILM GUIDELINES Sarah Resch explains the procedure Film Club will follow.
Sarah Resch and Francis Hovland, seniors, founded Film Club this year. Film Club involves numerous activities, including analyzing films, creating films and running Mustang News Production. “Film Club is a great opportunity to learn about cameras and movies,” Riley Ramirez, junior, said. “I really want to learn more about the process of movie making and how to create short films.” Sarah and Francis are leading students to explore their interest in the film industry, and are fueled by their passions. “Sarah and Francis are so determined to make the club a success,” Riley said. “They are both very involved and I was very impressed on both of their work ethics. I’m so excited to learn more and hopefully make a short film soon.”
Corrections
In Issue 1 of Crier, the information for the pie chart graphic on page 2 was provided by Mr. Robert Snyder. The record for boys’ soccer on page 7 should have read 4-1-1. On page 7, Nana Nnuro-Frimpong’s name was misspelled. The source for the mask photo on page 8 was by Henry Hofferth. Crier regrets these errors.
munster high school crier — oct. 2, 2020
opinion
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Creative Outlet opinion by: Alexis Perez
While there is not a formal uniform at MHS, students are still limited to what they wear. The student handbook outlaws certain apparel, such as rips in jeans higher than one’s knee, fingertip length shorts, dresses, wearing spaghetti strap tank tops, among other rules. In 2020, it seems as if these rules are ridiculous and outdated. Personally, I don’t understand the need for these rules. We are living through a pandemic. Administrators and teachers should worry more about our health and less about the clothes we choose to wear. Often I see some female students receive looks from teachers or aids regarding their outfits. If you get dress coded by an administrator or teacher, you would have to go into student services and would be told to change. If you do not have extra clothes or gym clothes you have to call your parents. I think it would be embarrassing having to walk around in gym shorts or being made to change do to what you are wearing. The school dress code is enforced because clothing is either too distracting, revealing, or might bother someone else. Yes, boys can also get dress coded, but personally, I don’t think I have ever witnessed a boy get dress coded. Rather, they are not dress coded to the same degree that us female students are. It is not fair that boys can wear what they want and girls cannot. The dress code seems to objectify or target girls more on how they dress. I thought we were supposed to make girls less worried as to what they wear. Especially because most girls overthink what they wear when it is commented on. They don’t want to receive judgment from their colleagues because it could be taken the wrong way. Teachers are required to call out students who show too much skin. However, wearing ripped jeans or tank tops does not hurt anyone. Some students wear baggy clothes others wear tight clothes. Telling them they look inappropriate or under dressed lowers their self-esteem. They wear it so that they feel comfortable in what they wear, especially at school. Although we are in a pandemic the dress code still applies to all students. I personally think that the teachers should worry more about health than what we wear.
cartoon by daniel nozick
HIGHS AND LOWS Although it is easy to attribute all of our shortcomings this year to the unfortunate events of 2020, it is extremely important to examine the causing factors these mishaps.
EDITORIAL
In a New World Australian and California wildfires. Impeachment of the president. Tensions with Iran. The death of Kobe Bryant. The COVID-19 pandemic. The economic downturn that resulted. The death of George Floyd. The rise of the BLM movement. The death of Chadwick Boseman. The death of RBG. All are history defining moments. All overwhelming, yet important news. It seems as if every day brings somber headlines. Every new injustice in the world seems to be a new monster that we have to face. It is easy to get lost in all the chaos. In the midst of it all, it is also easy to find an entity to blame. “2020 is the worst year ever” is a sentence you’ve probably heard, or even said aloud yourself. Is 2020 really our worst year? This question requires a look into a general experience of the past decade, not taking into account the personal, academic, or professional lows
that one has experienced. bad news in just one year. However, there seems to be Collectively speaking, this a unanimous hatred of this year has amassed into one of year. There may be a few fac- shared suffering and grief. tors that have contributed to But it has also brought about a shared sense of empathy. It this. When looking back, we is easier to understand one must consider the fact that another in this year than ever quarantine kept before. We have Our take faced boredom, the nation stuck uncertainty, and at home, watchTake responsibility anxiety togething the media for any signs of for your actions. er in quarantine. change. News Being accountable With the rise of was a constant is the first step the Black Lives in our lives, towards change Matter moveseemingly bement, we learned ing the only real marker of to re-learn history and untime. With our current access derstand and challenge systo technology, avoiding being tems that perpetuate racism. flooded with news was rela- But these systems and this tively impossible. history has existed before our Quarantine kept us on our acknowledgement of it. toes, ready for the next tragUnderstanding our world is edy. In the hopes of being the first step in the process of prepared for the next inci- change. It is up to us to dedent, we became obsessed cide whether we want to linwith updating ourselves until ger on the fact that 2020 has it was difficult to keep things changed life for us, or if we in perspective. As a result, it want to embrace the changes seemed as if we lived through and move forward for a more an entire decade’s worth of just world.
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. •The newspaper serves as a public forum and two-way communication for the school and community. •Crier is a source of information, entertainment, advertising and opinion for the student body, faculty, administration and community •Published material will stress objective reporting except on the editorial page where opinion writing will be featured. All published material will stress accuracy, integrity, honesty, responsibility, objectivity, fairness and independence. Corrections, when necessary, will be published on page 2. •Opinions expressed in the newspaper do not necessarily reflect those of the School Town of Munster, faculty or administration. •Letters to the editor and reader suggestions are
welcomed, but should be limited to 250 words. All letters must be signed and should be either emailed to the editor (lana.salahieh@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.
Copy Editor Alison Lee Design Editor Alexis Perez Page Editors Gage Hoekstra, Linda Ramirez, Thomas Zangrilli Graphics Editors Henry Hofferth, Anthony Young Head Photographers Max Lindenmayer, Cali Petersen
Our Staff
Chief Photographer Madi Green
Editor-in-Chief Lana Salahieh
Photographers Anna Evilsizor
Managing Editor Atarah Israel
Adviser Ms. Sarah-Anne Lanman
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infocus
munster high school crier — oct. 2, 2020
A new homecoming
p
THREE, TWO, ONE, ACTION In order to prepare for the Homecoming virtual pep rally, Francis Hovland, senior, films the cheer routine. Film club, established this year by Francis and Sarah been in charge of assembling a video for the school to stream in place of an in-person rally. “We hope it’ll be among the best of our projects,” Francis said.
In a new era of social distancing, students find a way to enjoy Homecoming week while taking precautions
Pep rally, but make it virtual alison lee
copy editor
Francis Hovland and Sarah Resch, seniors and founders of Film Club, were approached by student body president Shriya Iyer, and vice president Maureen Van Matre, seniors, to ask whether they would like to help film and edit the virtual pep rally this year. Francis and Sarah were referred to by principal Mr. Mike Wells, and they agreed to help. “We both were on board fairly quickly. I always love to film things,” Francis said. “So far, it’s proven to be a rather huge project when taking in the quality we’re striving to achieve. This could be the only time we ever make a homecoming video, and that makes it feel really special.” Shriya, Maureen, Francis and Sarah are collaborating together to ensure the school still gets a pep rally, despite the ongoing pandemic. “They set up times for us to record and told us to get shots of the athletic team captains as well as the new clubs. They also set up for us to get shots of the
cheer, dance and band performances,” Sarah said. “So basically, they did most of the planning, but we were given creative liberty on how to edit it together and where to shoot.” Both have taken up this challenge to plan, film and edit a virtual pep rally for the entire school to see, all in two weeks. “On Wednesday, we were basically running across the whole school to be in time for other time slots,” Francis said. “We wanted to make sure the shots we did came out well, and that caused us to fall a bit behind. Considering the time crunch, I’d say we did the best we could.” The virtual pep rally went live yesterday. “I hope that it’ll get kids excited about the Homecoming events like the football game, and get kids interested in some of the clubs featured in the video,” Sarah said. Francis adds, “We’re quite excited to see how the final piece comes out. We’ve put in a lot of effort, so we hope you like it.” The link to the video is on mhsnews.net
Socially distanced in the stands alexis perez
design editor
A large part of the Football game experience is being part of the student section. The student section allows students to show their support for the team, along with their spirit. This year, due to the pandemic, the organizers made sure to make this year’s student section safe so that students would still have a good time. There are markings on the bleachers where students have to sit six feet apart from each other. That makes it safer for the students to still be by their friends and continue to stay safe. Since friends are separated, the experience of being at a Football game has changed. “For me, (this year) wasn’t as fun. Football games last year were really fun because you had all of your friends there with you,” Bella Biegel, sophomore, said. “(Since we were) six feet apart, it made the game pretty boring because you couldn’t be next to your friends and it wasn’t (as) fun.”
A large part of the Football experience is dressing up in spirit wear. Many students in the past years have gone all out in support. To prepare for the game, the student section leaders, Ari Arzumanian and Joey Marcus, seniors, figure out which theme will be chosen. “We usually bring up a few themes a few days before the game,” Joey Marcus, senior, said. “Then, (for) whatever team (is) playing, we ask them which theme they like more, and then just base it off that.” This year students are going all out for the themes for the student section. “For the game that I attended, everyone in the student section participated in the theme and went all out,” Lauren Dolatowski, junior, said. While the social distancing rules have their downsides, they allow the students to continue to participate in supporting the team. “I feel much safer knowing that there is a lower chance of anyone getting sick when masks are worn and social distancing is in place,” Cameran Reed, freshman, said.
infocus
munster high school crier — oct. 2, 2020
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Mustang merchandise linda ramirez
page editor
Togetherness is more important than ever when we’re all six feet apart. And the perfect way to show your Mustang spirit and help bring us all closer together, is to adorn yourself tonight in this year’s Homecoming merchandise. The homecoming shirt comes in four colors, each designated to a grade. Freshman year receives a gray shirt, sophomores get white, juniors red, and seniors black. On each shirt are the printed words of Mustang Spirit, merged with our school’s icon: a running mustang. In past years the number of students purchasing the yearly homecoming
shirts has been a topic of concern. “CEC has been talking about low shirt sales in the past and how we can increase sales,” Ms. Kristen Szafasz, freshmen CEC sponsor, says. “The thought was maybe just make a general Munster shirt that people can wear at any time.” The sales in recent time have blossomed now that these pieces of Mustang memorabilia are able to be worn to any occasion year round. “With eLearning at home, some grade levels did see a decrease in sales, but we still had a great turnout,” Ms. Szafasz said. The window to order a shirt closed last week, Monday Sept. 21, at 3 p.m. The shirts cost $15 each, and were available for purchase in person via paper form, or through a new
experimental process found in Powerschool. Now, as the merch is and Homecoming is tonight, be sure to wear not only your Mustang apparel, be it old or new, with your heart on your sleeve. When we as a school come support one another, we build up a community that will carry us through any uncertainties the future may face. photo by anna evilsizor
A broken tradition alison lee
copy editor
photo from 1974 Paragon
photo by madi green
h Resch, senior, have
queens
The
The queen will be crowned at half time at tonight’s game.
CIRCA 1974 Speech and Debate volunteers from 1974 pack food for the annual chicken barbeque.
The chicken barbeque fundraiser has been a long-standing tradition since 1965. Its cancellation this year marks a break in their tradition. “The chicken barbecue was cancelled because we are not allowed to have visitors in the building,” Mr. Jordan Mayer, speech and debate director, said. “We would not be able to service 2000 customers during a global pandemic. The chicken barbeque fundraiser typically has profits in the thousands.
Not having it this year can have major implications for the speech and debate program. “It definitely is a major fundraiser for our program,” Mr. Mayer said. “So our hope is that we will be able to have some form of barbecue or an alternative fundraiser in the spring.” Although this chicken barbeque is cancelled, the speech and debate team still look forward to their season. “We are saddened that we are unable to host the barbecue in the fall, as it is such a tradition and staple within our community,” Mr. Mayer said. “However, we understand that safety will always come first.”
Salma Prince
Becky Jones
Megan Flynn
Taylor Graham
What does the nomination mean to you? It’s an honor and a dream come true. Ever since I was a little girl I always dreamed about being Homecoming queen, but being on court alongside these beautiful girls is more than I dreamed of. How many licks does it take to get to the center of a tootsie pop? 27. That’s a pretty solid number to start with.
How do you want to be remembered by your senior class? By my actions. Words are great, but a person shows their true character through their behavior. I hope that I’ve left a positive impression. What does the nomination mean to you? It’s an absolute honor. I’m excited to go out on the field with the rest of those amazing girls.
Uyai Edet
Emma Phillips
What does the nomination mean to you? When I was a little girl, I loved watching princess movies but I never really saw any that looked like me. Now that I get to be a princess is a feeling I can’t describe. How many licks does it take to get to the center of a tootsie pop? The number of holes in a cheese grater (17). I don’t know why, but it make sense.
What does the nomination mean to you? The nomination is an incredible honor and I am extremely grateful. To me, it means appreciating our faculty’s hard work at keeping this tradition alive despite the challenges of the year. Why did the chicken cross the road? Matthew McConaughey was on the other side , obviously.
Clara Zuniga
Claire Nowak
How do you want to be remembered by your senior class? As someone who is very approachable and has a positive attitude no matter what. I want my classmates to always feel like they can talk to me and that I can brighten their day. What is your third favorite reptile? A turtle. Rest in peace my turtle Tonto, who almost bit off Maureen Van Metre’s finger.
How do you want to be remembered by your senior class? As someone who was sweet and inclusive to everyone. I hope all people perceive me as a positive and kindhearted peer. What is your biggest irrational fear? I am so absolutely terrified that I will fall off my lifeguard stand into the pool at work… that would be so embarrassing.
What does the nomination mean to you? It’s very important to me because it makes me feel like I’ve made an impact on my class. I’ve always wanted to be on the court since my freshman year and I’m so happy that my class made my dream come true. Why did the chicken cross the road? I think that the chicken crossed the road because he thought it was an egg-celent idea!
What does the nomination mean to you? That wearing sweatpants to school every day didn’t scare anyone off. How many licks does it take to get to the center of a tootsie pop? Exactly 248.73 What is your favorite thing about MHS? I love the teachers here, there are so many who are so kind and supportive and they work really hard.
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review
munster high school crier — oct. 2, 2020
P party STA
Members of the Boys’ Cross Country team review what pasta is the best, considering price and taste
max lindenmayer and anthony young photographers During the fall season, different cross country teams gather on Fridays. During these gatherings, runners will eat pasta for its carbohydrates in preparation for the next day. What is the best way to “carb up”? Max Lindenmayer, Gabe Tienstra and Anthony Young, juniors and, Boys’ Cross Country team members, review different pastas to tell you which is the best way to get your carbohydrates.
$ Homemade pasta
Made by Cross Country Mom, Mrs. Nahnsen | Cost: $1.75
Anthony’s rating: 5/5 meatballs
Personally, I was very excited for this pasta. The pasta stood up to the excitement. It was amazing. Nothing wrong with it—I might even go far enough to say it’s the perfect pasta.
Gabe’s rating: 5/5 meatballs
The pasta itself was so good. It reminded me of when my grandparents would make pasta. It’s all very traditional. You can tell that it’s homemade and that it has soul in it. I don’t think anything gets better than this.
Max’s rating: 5/5 meatballs
When we got it, it was nice and warm. The meat sauce was very good. The texture of the meat in the meat sauce really stood out to me compared to the other ones. I was not going to comment on the noodles because they were different than the other ones, but they were better than all the other noodles.
$$ Fast food pasta
Noodles & Company | Cost: $6.50
Anthony’s rating: 2/5 meatballs
Looking at this pasta appearance-wise, I wasn’t looking forward to it. Eating the pasta was not bad, but it was nothing to write home about. It is just pasta, nothing else. It was the most soulless of the three and definitely not worth the price.
Gabe’s rating: 2/5 meatballs
Off the first bite you can tell that the sauce isn’t distributed very well in the pasta. You can tell that it’s just plain noodles. Noodles and sauce, nothing really else, but the parts that I did get the pasta
Homemade pasta
with are not that bad surprisingly. The sauce is so polar from the noodle taste that you can really tell when you have only sauce or only noodle.
Max’s rating: 2.5/5 meatballs
When I first had the sauce it was a little too sweet for the plain noodles. The noodles were not very tasteful, kind of bland. It was just sweeter sauce, and I am not too much of a fan of a sweet sauce. The sauce almost tasted acidic, which I was not a fan of.
$$$ Authentic Italian Cuisine
Average Meatball Rating:
Cafe Borgia | Cost: $16.50
Anthony’s rating: 4.5/5 meatballs
Presentation looked beautiful, a true work of art, a Mona Lisa. After eating the pasta, I came to the conclusion that this is the true taste of Italy. The sauce was evenly distributed with the pasta and the pasta itself was very filling. The blend of spices was also delicious.
Fast-food pasta
Gabe’s rating: 3.5/5 meatballs
A simple description this is how good pasta should taste. Wowza.
Max’s rating: 4/5 meatballs
The noodles melted in my mouth. After having the bad aftertaste of the Noodles & Company, this pasta saved my soul. All around, the pasta, sauce, and meatballs just all went together very well. I don’t think it was worth $16 though.
Carb Loading Debunked? It has become a tradition throughout the running community, but does it really work? Yes, and no, although loading up on carbohydrates is necessary for endurance running, it is only necessary for endurance running that lasts an hour or more. Carb Loading works for people running a marathon, which lasts for over an hour. This ensures that the body will have enough glycogen stored so it doesn’t have to start burning fat. Your body generally has enough Glycogen stored in your muscle to get you through a 5k.
Average Meatball Rating:
Authentic Italian cuisine
Our thoughts on Carb Loading...
Anthony: Personally I think it helps, but it might just be mental. I also think it’s a good excuse to eat an unhealthy amount of pasta in one night. Max: Honestly, I do not think carb loading gives much of an effect. When I eat a bunch of pasta the night before racing I do not see any difference between my performance then when I do not. Gabe: I feel that carb loading makes me feel more confident in how I will perform and also helps my mind tell myself that I’m preparing for a race.
Average Meatball Rating:
source: runnersworld.com photos by anthony young
munster high school crier — oct. 2, 2020
sidenote Girls’ soccer holds record 6-4-1
photo by max lindenmayer STOLEN BALL Playing at home, Kylie Meegan, freshman, steals the ball from a Merrillville defensive player during a Sept. 24 game. The Girls’ soccer team won the match with a score of 9-0. With a current record of 6-4-1. Girls’ Soccer prepares for sectionals that are on Oct. 5 at Lake Central High School, “I wanted to get the ball up-field so our team could get an opportunity to score,” Kylie said.
Boy’s tennis compete at sectionals Oct. 10
photo by anna evilsizor
Football team and staff talk about changes made to make the season last longer linda ramirez
Homecoming—the long standing tradition of welcoming current and former students to come out and support our school. Every year it is a celebration of our Mustang spirit, shown through the elegant fun of the dance, and the roaring crowds of the football game, a true feeling of togetherness among our team. As the world breaks out in pandemic, adjustments are needed, especially for the Homecoming game tonight at 7 p.m. against Andrean. In order to keep players and coaches healthy, the Football team has adopted new protocols in order to be able to practice. For the players, the most noticeable change has been drills required to be six feet apart. Masks, when not currently playing, are required at all times.
photo by max lindenmayer
TACKLE FOR LOSS At the football game against Highland Sept. 26, AJ Prieboy (27), sophomore, tackles an opponent, Abe Centeno (23), sophomore and Cam Perry (7), senior, celebrate the play. The tackle for loss caused the 4th down for Highland. The team lost the game with a final score of 3-20. “I got off my block and planted him,” AJ said.
Having sanitary equipment is more important than ever as well. The washing and wiping of equipment occurs before, during and after practice is held. The team receives help in upkeeping safety standards from their trainers and managers. Most noticeably perhaps are the efforts of Alex Lesinski, class of ‘20, noted as being proactive in cleaning tools and spacing the players out. “Future games should go well, says Aleks Maric, junior. “As long as we do what is asked of us by the coaches.” So aside from being distant and the frequent use of hand sanitizer, things seem to be mostly normal for the boys on the team. According to Coach Jason Grunewald, gym teacher, there are a total of ten new players being welcomed into the field, and no one yet having left due to COVID-19. All goes to show that despite uncertain circumstances, our team spirit still stands strong.
“Our players have done a great job taking it one day at a time and giving us their best effort,” Coach Grunewald says. “I am very proud of all the young men in our football program.” When asked if it was hard to inspire and give motivation, both coaches came back speaking of the boys’ resilience. “I think the players are more motivated to play because of the uncertainty going around,” Mr. Ryan Popa, football coach, said. “The players know that each game may be the last for the season.” With the chance of the season suddenly ending, the players have come to truly appreciate each opportunity provided. “Regardless of the situation at hand or the outcome of the games, the games will always be fun and meaningful to me as my high school career continues,” Maric said.
Par for the course
Boy’s soccer sectionals Oct. 5
Girls’ golf ends season at 7th place for regionals, remain in high spirits gage hoekstra
page editor
photo by max lindenmayer DRIBBLE AND DODGE In a soccer match against Lowell on Sept. 23, Ethan Orange, senior, dodges, dribbles and circumvents around the defender. Boys’ Soccer won the game with a final score of 8-0. Boys’ Soccer sectionals will be held at Highland High School on Monday Oct. 5, and they currently maintain a record of 4-2-1, “I scanned the field to look for my teammates to set them up to score,” Ethan said.
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Playing like it’s the very last
page editor
KEEPING THE BALL IN OUR COURT Hitting a backhand slice, Michael Fesko, freshman, competes against Chesterton in the Smash Cancer meet. The meet is an annual fundraiser that the boys participate in. Boys’ tennis first sectional meet started on Thursday. “The season has been great since we’ve been playing very well against some of the best competition,” Fesko said.
sports
photo by anna evilsizor
TAKING A SWING At centennial golf course, Parkyr Guiton, senior, starts the match by hitting the ball as far as she can. The season went really well. We had such talent on the team, and it’s such a shame we didn’t make it to state,” Guiton said.
Varsity Girls’ golf started their games off strongly, winning game after game, and remained strong opponents throughout the season. In addition to the accomplishment of nine consecutive victories, each of the team’s five players have also managed to earn their first team-all conference. “This was the best season we have had in years,” Rebecca Jones, senior, said. “It was the first time in a long time that we went undefeated for our regular season and we had a really good team environment.” Many had feared that the COVID-19 pandemic would affect both the team’s ability to practice and compete. In some ways this has come to fruition, with the
number of competitions along with time to prepare being reduced. Despite this fear, Girls’ Golf was able to maintain a stable season, as seen by the multiple wins they garnered this year. Additionally, many team members are still expressing concerns about the effects of the heat, constant mask wearing and increased difficulty to stay hydrated. “Our greatest challenges this year were figuring out new ways to have a successful golf season during a global pandemic,” Hannah Bard, senior, said. Even facing the novel and often extreme challenges that this situation has presented, the Girls’ Golf team worked to overcome. Recently, the team was able to place third in sectionals, leaving them in high spirits and preparation for the upcoming regionals competition. “We are very hopeful and optimistic going into this year’s regionals, but overall our goal is to go, have fun, play our game and hope for the best,” Emma Gossman, senior, said.
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student life
munster high school crier — oct. 2, 2020
2020 will go down in history as
one big wake up call to the world.” atarah israel
H
managing editor
ailing natural disasters, public and political unrest, as well as a global pandemic, 2020 has become the object of both scorn and scrutiny. The onslaught of public crisis has spurred many to agree that the events of this year will be well-documented for years to come —history is unfolding in real time. It is important to reflect on the past events that brought us here.
California Fires August
Environmental concerns have also added to the pileage of complications that have shaped this year. Fires nationally and internationally raised concerns in years previous, but the recent declaration of a state of emergency in California not only localized the issue, but increased awareness of the changing climate. “As a society, I think we each need to take individual responsibility,” Myanne Zachary, junior, said. “We all share this Earth. We all want to continue living on this Earth. By everyone taking individual responsibility and making better daily choices—even if it’s not the most convenient choice—all of those small changes would add up.”
As of today, there are 90 days left of 2020. What are your hopes for the remaining 90 days?
“To get this year over with.”
—Tanner Radowski freshman
“That we don’t have to wear masks and I can see my friends laugh and smile.” —Emily Siurek freshman
Trump Impeachment January and February
COVID-19
March and April
BACKTALK
COVID-19 has reshaped lives in ways unimaginable. One major issue that has plagued students and teachers is the closing, and subsequent reopening, of schools in response to the pandemic. “I’ve had to learn new technology equipment, which has been extremely difficult because it doesn’t solve nearly enough of my problems,” Mrs. Kathleen LaPorte, AP Human Geography and Ethnic Studies teacher, said. “This year is just really tough all around for myself and fellow teachers.
Ruth Bader Ginsburg September
The divided political state of the United States once again sustained a devastating blow with the passing of Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. “[The state of our country is] divided,” Mrs. LaPorte said. “Politics, racism, and a pandemic has exposed the hate that people have for just about everything.” Tragic and unfortunate, for some the dire circumstances surrounding this loss offers a foreboding view of the future of the government. “I just pray that the Supreme Court seat does not get filled until the next president is elected,” Obi said.
This year dawned in the midst of what already was a controversial issue—the impeachment of current president Donald Trump. The impeachment of The President highlights the political turmoil that fulminated this year. “The United States has always been divided, the only difference is we’ve made it so it’s not okay [anymore],” Obi Adindu, sophomore, said.
“That corona is cleared, trick or treating is back on, and we’re able to finish our cross country season.” —Daniella Nahnsen sophomore
“I hope to become closer with some of the new people I’ve met this year so far.”
“I hope that I pass Mr. Clyne’s From online petitions to street English classes.” protests, movements like Black —Amber Payne Lives Matter have gained immense junior support and backlash this year. After the circulation of a graphic video capturing the killing of an African American security and construction worker, George Floyd, by the hands of police in late May, outbursts of protest online and in streets became more prominent. “[Seeing my peers and celebrities] use Black Lives Matter for recognition makes me angry because as soon as “To get my money the hashtag isn’t trending, people up and not my stop posting and forget about it,” Uyai funny up.” Edet, senior, said. “It’s treated as if it —Lance Dabrowski is something to do on a checklist.” senior
“I get transported to a different reality and I’m out of this one.” —Katy Nelson
Black Lives Matter
—Casey Knor sophomore
May, June and July
What now?
Though the end of what many believe is a rude awakening of a year is in sight, the impact this year has had on each individual will not only be cemented in the collective memory of those around us, but in history as well. “2020 will go down in history as one big wake-up call to the world,” Mrs. LaPorte said. “We aren’t invincible. We aren’t immune to losing everything in the blink of an eye. I hope people start to care about those being affected by COVID-19. I think this will be a quiet New Year’s.” graphics by Cali Petersen
junior
“I hope Rubesha finally gives me an invite to her wedding.” —Taylor Olmstead senior
“To make it through “Win the lotto and retire.” the remainder of the year and not have to go all eLearning.” — Mr. Matthew Kalwasinski —Mr. Josh Herold history teaccher psychology teacher