Student Inscape September - October 2022

take

It would be difficult to go through life without hearing the phrase “give and take” at least once. In a society that promotes take, take, take, the world is collectively forgetting about the “give” component. Emphasis on being able to utilize resources, being one’s own advocate and pursuing one’s goals is important. However, humanity’s emphasis on giving back and being able to work in unison to reach a common goal for the “greater good” has diminished significantly as the “take” mentality held by many grows in prominence. The stories of giving often provide a beacon of light that brighten peoples’ days. Whether it is a story of hope on Good Morning America or announcements of money raised for a charity, stories of giving have the ability to paint a smile on the face of anyone. The belief that giving is a societal pillar that needs to stand the test of time is a belief held by many. So the question is as follows: “Why do more people not give back?” In a society that promotes “take, take, take,” where is the equivalent amount of “give, give, give?”

There are about 15 variations of the definition for “give” according to the MerriamWebster Dictionary. Solely choosing one definition of “give” that applies to this question would prove to be difficult. Giving instead creates an umbrella where a variety of actions

and values exist. Giving can occur through monetary donations to a cause, through the donation of time to a cause or through directing one’s attention toward a cause. Nevertheless, it does not come as a surprise that when people think of giving toward a greater good, they may visualize giving money. Money’s role in charities is necessary and should not be discredited within the community. However, more credit should be directed toward giving

to a cause for the greater good, giving one’s time and talents is just as valuable. In most cases, time and money are equally as valuable. High schoolers are a prime example of a population that is capable of giving back, which can occur through service, money or through the use of one’s talents. Just because a high schooler is unable to donate millions of dollars to an organization does not mean that the high schooler cannot make a sizable impact on the community through giving time in service of that organization. It is also important to remember that many do give back and are giving back, and these positive actions need to continue.

time to various causes within the community.

Societal emphasis on the necessity of giving over taking needs to occur. Equal societal emphasis on the tangible and intangible aspects of giving needs to occur. For those who are not able to contribute financially

The action of giving in service to the greater good must permeate through society’s takesaturated mentality. Where is the take without the give? Whether it is through giving time, resources or community service to a greater good, the “give” component will be instrumental in maintaining the aforementioned greater good. Anyone can make a difference. Anyone can give. If everyone gives, then the ripple effect created, can positively impact the world for generations to follow.

must

signed

Mother McAuley Liberal Arts High School 3737 W. 99th Street Chicago, IL 60655 (773)-881-6500 www.mothermcauley.org

Dr. Kathryn Baal

Principal of

of

“We should be shining lamps, giving light to all around us.”

-Catherine McAuley

Mercy Day: the story goes on

Evelyn Ivers

On Sept. 24, 1827, the Sisters of Mercy opened the very first “House of Mercy” on Baggot Street in Dublin, Ireland under the guidance of founder Catherine McAuley. The House of Mercy was a place for the less fortunate to grow in faith and knowledge directed by the Sisters of Mercy.

Catherine McAuley devoted her life to those less fortunate than herself. She spent her time giving back to the poor, caring for the sick and teaching underprivileged, young girls. She began her work as a leader focused around works of mercy but eventually founded the religious order called the Sisters of Mercy; she was able to grow her ministry all the way to 99th Street in Chicago, Illinois where it still remains and is thriving today.

above. McAuley seniors celebrate the end of the ceremony with colored ribbons.

photos provided by Ms. Sheahan

Mercy Day of Giving is an online fundraiser that begins at noon on September 23 and concludes at noon on September 24. This year, Mother McAuley raised a total of $119,352 through donations from alumnae, parents and friends. Top donors include Alumna of the 1980s, Alumna of the 1990s, parents and current or former members of the Faculty/Staff at Mother McAuley. Donations will be used to grow and benefit the educational initiatives at Mother McAuley

New additions to McAuley

Mother McAuley has announced some new additions to the school community, and many are thrilled about their benefit to the young students and athletes of Mac Nation. McAuley has evidently been able to make the additions of a new turf field and updates to McAuley’s Learning Resource Center possible. The developments of McAuley’s new turf field,the advancements to the Learning Resource Center and counseling department were made possible by generous donations made out to the Mother McAuley community.

The LRC, now named “The Sister Brian Costello Learning Resource Center,” was renamed in honor of Sr. Mary Brian Costello, RSM, who educated at McAuley as a former English teacher, curriculum director and principal. The former principal, Eileen O’Reilly, was a huge advocate of mercy education here at McAuley. The new updates include a handicap accessible ramp, a new testing facility, better and easier access to the counseling center and new developments to the curriculum and LRC system. The ceilings have also been lowered to balance the echo that was a previous distraction for students within the center. “The LRC made many accommodations for students of all needs, whether it is after school to come study for an anatomy assignment or to study for a test in

the new testing center,” said learning resource center coordinator Julianne Vanderwerf.“All students are welcome to utilize the quiet working space for homework or test taking.”

“We decided to invest the donations into a turf field so that the girls would have equitable and new facilities to practice on,” said Peggy Rourke, Vice-President of Institutional Advancement. “It helps that the girls don’t have to travel somewhere to practice, and they have the opportunity to practice in a safe environment.” The new turf field was unveiled to soccer, lacrosse and softball students at the end of September. The state-of-the art- field allows players to utilize after spring storms which previously prevented them from being able to exhibit a safe practice environment.

“The aspect behind the development of the turf field was to watch the girls thrive and grow in a safe and igniting atmosphere and space,” said Rourke. The new field provides multiple benefits for McAuley athletes of all levels. “We are now able to have home games at McAuley instead of our home field being Brother Rice High School or St. Xavier University,” said Megan McCauley, physical education teacher and Athletics Coach. “Also, the safety and durability of the field is more beneficial for the students’ athletic performance and team’s consistency.”

throughout the upcoming school year. Mercy Day at Mother McAuley is a timehonored tradition. The Mercy Day service started with the singing of “The Suscipe” and readings from Dr. Baal, as well as teachers and students. Afterwards, students from Theater Workshop II performed a skit explaining the work and teachings of Catherine McAuley. This year’s “Full House” themed skit took place in the 1990s at the Tanner house. Students told stories of Catherine’s life and ministry, which led her to the founding of Mother McAuley. Each year, a member of the senior class and a member of the faculty/staff is honored with the Catherine McAuley award. Recipients are nominated and voted on by the staff for embodying Catherine’s spirit and living out her legacy of service, compassion and hospitality. This year’s awardees were Ciara Hosty ‘23 and Ms. Jen Callahan ‘02. The Mercy Day service closed with the iconic Mercy Day dance. Students performed a dance to “Why We Tell the Story,” and each senior was presented with an individual ribbon to commemorate their last Mercy Day. “It was so special to celebrate my last Mercy Day with the whole school back together again,” Ndeye Kambe 12 stated.

Ella Martin

above. View of the new turf fireld on the west end of McAuleys campus.

Photos by Ella Marin

above. The updated façade of the Sister Brian Costello LRC with wheel chair accessible ramp.

above. Theatre Workshop II students performing their skit during the Mercy Day Ceremony.

Christmas in September

Going on walks is a great source of exercise and also helps raise your happiness levels. Now imagine walking to raise money for childhood cancer. You would be walking with a purpose and helping so many families in need at the same time.

Christmas Without Cancer is a local organization that provides holiday gifts, as well as basic necessities to local families that are living with cancer. They have one single goal that they make sure to accomplish every single year.

“The goal is to continue our mission of helping Southland families every single day, not just at Christmas time.” Renee Copeland, Vice President of Christmas Without Cancer says.

This year, Christmas Without Cancer held their 8th annual 5k walk at the Evergreen Park Community Center. However, this year was a little more special.

“We will be having a special ceremony at 8:30 a.m. Every child will be announced and every family will be presented a gift from our organization. Each family will also receive a customized wooden yellow ribbon to honor their loved one.” Copeland says.

In total, CWC recognized 28 kids, angels, warriors and survivors. One honoree is Nicholas Miceli, an angel. His mom had a lot to say about the generosity of CWC.

Mia Miceli

“Christmas Without Cancer adopted our whole family for Christmas when Nick was diagnosed. They not only helped Nick, but they made sure our other kids were taken care of so we could focus on Nick. We are forever grateful for their kindness.” Khrissy Miceli, mother of Nicholas Miceli, an honoree says.

This walk would not have been possible without all of the volunteers that came out to help. In total, 150 people came to help in any way that they could.

behind the scenes. They say it takes a village and we have the very best.” Copeland says.

The race is a big event to help raise money for much needed funds to help families battling cancer. Bringing the community together is the best way to unite people and raise Money.

“It unites people-family, friends, etc. Everyone who has been impacted by cancer. It is a beautiful way to honor a loved one.” Copeland says.

Pakistan underwater

Olivia Murray

Flooding has become a major problem for Pakistan over the past month and a half. The country declared a state of emergency due to weeks of heavy rainfall at the end of August 2022. The flood has affected 33 million people with 1,314 deaths–458 of them being children. With the help of satellite images, one-third of Pakistan was shown to have severe flooding due to monsoon rain and melting glaciers. The monsoon has caused an environmental catastrophe. Lake Machar, the country’s largest freshwater lake, is where the intense flooding is taking place.

Villages like Maula Bakhsh Mala were submerged by Lake Manchar for the third time over the course of the flooding: “[Our] village is submerged. There is no way to go [to it],” said Noor Mohammad Thebo, who spoke to CNN. The monsoon has been tearing this community apart for a decade. After years of the lake disappearing, that’s when the flooding emerged. This flooding of Lake Manchar submerged all surrounding villages, with citizens stranded from their underwater homes.

The population of villagers living on the lake has gone from 200,000+ to 3,000. 33 million have been affected. Marine life has

“Volunteering is #1. Our events are a success because of the amazing individuals who dedicate their time and talents working gone from 32 species to six species. Villagers are looking for government aid to help fix their lake that was once called home. Most resi dents have left, but the others were advised to leave. Unfortunately, only a few villagers have been provided with shelter, while others are stranded and/or homeless. Rescuers are failing to reach everyone, according to locals. Worries about Lake Machar have been mul tiplying for many years. Agricultural waste water has been flowing into the lake, mak ing circumstances dangerous for fishermen and species in Lake Machar. This wastewa ter led to drinking water being cut off from citizens of the villages. For fishermen, there was great success with the amount of fish they caught, but now they can’t get enough fish to cover two meals a day. This decline of fish has caused fishermen’s income to de crease rapidly, leaving them no choice but to migrate. This flood has also created a big impact on financials. The flood washed away homes, roads, railways, livestock and crops, “It destroyed our crops and houses,” Yar Mohammad said, standing knee-deep in murky water. Pakistan is expecting there to be more than $30 billion in damages.

The race ended up being a huge success and they raised over $1,400. It is thanks to everyone that came out that CWC can keep spreading the kindness to families battling cancer.

left. Hundreds of families and community members line up to begin the race outside the Evergreen Park Community Center photo by Mia Miceli

Flooding might take up to six months to get under control. Pakistan is one of the most impacted countries due to global warming. The Pakistani government and United Nations Secretary General, Antonio Guterres, have blamed global climate change for why these monsoons have taken place. South Asian nations like Pakistan are known for little contribution to climate change, but have been the most impacted by the terrible effects of global warming.

above. The Sindh province of Pakistan flooded with water. photo by Ali Hyder Junejo in September 2022

Prince Charles ascends the throne

Gabi Hynes

“London Bridge is down”; was the message that was sent on Sept. 8. On that day Queen Elizabeth II died at Balmoral Castle in Scotland at age 96. Her funeral took place on Sept. 19, 2022. Millions mourned the loss of their Queen. They thanked Queen Elizabeth II for the years that she reigned,celebrating the 96 years of her life. The code for her funeral was “Operation London Bridge.”

Queen Elizabeth II was many things. She was the daughter of King George VI and Queen Elizabeth. She was a mother of four, a grandmother of eight and a greatgrandmother of 12. She was the wife of Prince Phillip, and they were married for over 70 years. He passed away on April 9, 2021. She was the longest reigning monarch and reigned for seven decades.

Queen Elizabeth II was born on April 21, 1926. Queen Elizabeth II was not in line to become Queen because her uncle, Edward, was King. King Edward abdicated on Dec. 11, 1936, and he was then given the title Duke of Windsor. The title of King went to her father, King George VI, on May 12, 1937. Her father died on Feb. 6, 1952. After her father died, she was the next in line for the crown. At age 26 Elizabeth II became Queen. Her Coronation took place on June 2, 1953. Her Coronation was the first televised coronation, and it was the start of the longest reigning monarch of England.

Queen Elizabeth II always had a great sense of pride and responsibility towards her country. During World War II she and her sister were forced to evacuate Buckingham Palace because it was bombed by Nazi Germany in 1940. They were moved to Windsor castle. When she turned 18, she wanted to enlist in the war. Her parents did not allow her to enlist because she was next in line for the throne, but she did not take no for an answer. In 1945 Elizabeth enlisted at age 18. At the time she was known as Princess Elizabeth. She enlisted in the Auxiliary Territorial Service or the ATS. This made her the first female member of the royal family to serve in the armed forces.

During her years as Queen, Elizabeth II showed how she was different from the previous monarchs before her. She traveled more than any other monarch in England. She installed 15 Prime Ministers during her reign. She was one of the first monarchs to casually walk through the streets with only a short distance between her and the crowd she was there to greet. Queen Elizabeth II had a love for animals. She had a love for her horses, and her love for her corgis is known worldwide. Her corgis were given to the Duke and Duchess of York after her death.

Queen Elizabeth II was able to stand out from the monarchs before her in the 70 years she reigned. Now that her reign is over, her son Prince Charles will ascend the throne.

Far from full

Mia Miceli

You live in a small home on the edge of a small town. You have noticed less food on your plate. Your mom tells you that your family is packing up and leaving to find a place with more food. Why is this happening? Why do you have to leave your whole life behind just to find something to eat?

Somalia is on the brink of starvation. Famine is expected to hit parts of Somalia between October and December. Many families have been forced to leave their homes in order to find and live in an area with more food to help them survive. Without food, people are becoming malnourished and dying from the lack of nutrients.

“I have been shocked to my core these past few days by the level of pain and suffering we see so many Somalis enduring,” Matin Griffith, the U.N. Humanitarian chief said. “Famine is at the door, and today we are receiving a final warning.”

Unfortunately, this is a warning for us all. If we continue to keep polluting the planet, climate change will continue to get worse and soon, and everyone all around the world will be affected. Climate change along with war, rising food costs and COVID-19 impacts

have led third world countries to become more impoverished.

“Continuing drought and starvation are the future if we do not protect the planet from changing climate and help the communities hit first and hardest, like those in Somalia.” Jiran, Somalia country director for humanitarian organizations said.

Somalia has yet to be overcome by famine so there is still time to help. Other third world countries, along with Somalia, are dependent on other “wealthier” countries to give them money to combat famine and other problems people may be enduring. Somalia is also calling for more aid towards their response plan. The percentage of money they are receiving towards this plan has dropped significantly over the past two years. Most of the money they would normally receive has been going toward the war efforts in Ukraine. This leaves other countries left behind with even less than they already have.

Samantha Power, USAID administrator, said that a famine can still be averted. “Today, a significant increase in humanitarian assistance can still help prevent mass starvation and deaths.”

This may be a problem overseas, however, we could experience the same things if we do not start changing our actions. If we can help Somalia now, we can help other countries and ourselves in the future.

above. Young girls line up at a feeding center in Mogadishu, Somalia.

photo by Samuel Regan-Asante

Photo provided by UN photo/Tobin Jones

above. Thousands of mourners leave cards and flowers at the Buckingham Palace gates in honor of Queen Elizabeth II

Get to know Officer Dan

We all know the friendly face of the security guard, Dan, who brightens up the downstairs C wing hallway. All of us are familiar with the, “Hi there!” while making a trip to the bathroom, the occasional, “Late again?” as the bell strikes 7:55 or the random conversation starter while walking back to class. We pass Dan everyday, converse with him everyday, but how well do we really know Dan?

Let’s start with the basics. Dan Hnatusko worked as a Chicago police officer for 30 years, specifically in the K-9 unit for 7 years. “I worked with bomb dogs a few years before I retired.” He explained, “We used to get sent all over the United States as a part of the Marshal Service.” Traveling is not an unfamiliar topic to Dan. As he was in the Armed Forces, he has traveled to every state in the United States, except for Hawaii. Dan hasn’t just explored The United States. Dan has also traveled to Singapore, Japan, Mexico, the Dominican Republic and Jamaica. While traveling is one of his favorite hobbies, patrolling Mother McAuley occupies a majority of Dan’s time.

above. Officer Dan Hnatusko sharing stories with students as they pass through main hall.

When asked what his favorite trait of the school was, his response was rather surprising: “It’s peaceful.”

While our fan sections may not be, Dan expressed his love for the warm, calm school environment. Before he worked in the K-9 unit, he patrolled a few local public schools. When mentioning the numerous fights he had to gain control over, he hinted at the disturbing memories he gained during his time in the police force. As he shared specific instances of disturbances that seemed hard for Dan, he was willing to mention one specific heartwarming story. “We had many cases of elderly people with dementia wandering outside of the neighborhoods.” While this may seem distressing, he continues with, “When we finally tracked them down, being able to reassure their safety to their families was the most rewarding part.”

As Dan reminisced on those small victories, he began to explain why he joined the police department in the first place. “I saw all the tragic stories on the news, and I just wanted to do my part in trying to make the world a better place!” Dan surely did his part in making the world a better place and continues to do so here at Mother McAuley. “I love making people smile; that’s why I love this job.”

Teachers and students all look forward to greeting Dan in the morning, some even say he brightens their day. “Dan’s morning jokes and positive attitude make my slow mornings more cheerful!” Ms. Sheahan says, “He never

fails to make me crack a smile!”

So, the next time you’re passing his desk over in the C wing, stop and chat with Dan for a while. It’s not only a guaranteed boost in your mood, but you may be lucky enough to get a glimpse into who Dan really is.

Keira Jarrett

above. Officer Dan reporting for duty behind the security desk at the end of C Wing.

photo by Keira Jarrett

photo by Keira Jarrett

above. The Inscape team lists funny and memorable mo ments from their encounters with Dan Hnatusko.

graphic by Keira Jarrett

Apply yourself!

Daniella Hall

Counselors care

Keira Jarrett

In honor of National Suicide Prevention Week being early in September, specifically Sept. 4 through Sept. 10, it is important to truly priortize the responsibilities we face in life. The most common reason students fail to acknowledge the need to take care of themselves mentally is the lack of resources they are surrounded by throughout their entire lives.

From the article “The Importance of Mental Health in Schools,” author Nancy Barile says, “Despite the fact that the average age of early signs of mental illness is 14, most individuals don’t seek help until adulthood.” While many students feel that they can’t reach out to their counselor in other school environments, Mother McAuley and its counseling department have worked harder than ever to create a welcoming environment for everyone. One of McAuley’s own counselor’s, Mrs. Unold, explained what she has observed in the average McAuley student: “I think anxiety’s the main issue most students come to the counselors for.” She continues, “A lot of the time it’s testing anxiety, social anxiety or just anxiety for pretty much anything you could think of.”

According to the article, “Teen Stress and Anxiety: Facts and Statistics,’’ it is proven that 31.9% of students are faced with some sort of anxiety disorder. With this number in mind, Mrs. Unold advises every student to, “Go beyond the main ‘generic’ tips that are broadcasted to everyone.” She follows up with, “Be self-compassionate.” To be self-

compassionate means to not only fo cus on the needs of others around you, but focus on your own needs as well.

When Mrs. Unold was asked if she observed students’ mental health improving once they started to prioritize their own needs, she said, “I’ve observed major improvements when students actually start to get the right amount of sleep, fuel their bodies and understand that it really is okay to give themselves some lenience.” She continues to point out, “Your mental health covers your entire being.” That level of neglect observed is being met with change. “Instead of us just having a ‘Mental Health Awareness’ week, we are transitioning to changing that to ‘Mental Health Matters,’” Mrs. Unold explains. “Instead of just focusing on educating students on the importance of their mental health one week a year, we are going to make some changes based on students’ suggestions, which will last year round.” This goes to show that even though we raise awareness for mental health and suicide prevention once a week each year, these are year round topics that need to be brought to light everyday of the year.

Gabi:

Hot takes: Is pumpkin spice really that nice?

Keira Jarrett, Lisette Corral and Gabi Hynes

I LOVE pumpkin spice!!!! I countdown the days until I can buy a $6.23 pumpkin cream cold brew from Starbucks. But my love for pumpkin spice does not just end at beverages. My pumpkin obsession extends to candles, bread, cake, pie, donuts and so much more. There is nothing better than coming home after a long day and lighting a pumpkin spice candle, drinking a pumpkin spice latte, eating a pumpkin spice donut and finishing whatever work I have to get done. Pumpkin spice is the perfect fall flavor and fall is my favorite season. Pumpkin ties into a lot of traditions that I do during the fall. One of my favorite fall activities is making pumpkin pie with my grandma. I also love carving pumpkins with my friends and family. I love going to pumpkin patches and picking out the perfect pumpkin to carve and enjoying the fresh pumpkin treats that they are selling. Pumpkin spice is nice. I don’t care if it is basic. Pumpkin spice is basic because it is good. #pumpkin spice is life.

Lisette:

Truly the idea of pumpkin spice sickens me. How does one name it pumpkin spice, but it doesn’t taste like pumpkin? I have always been a picky eater. I do not like condiments, and I eat pretty plain food. I don’t like cof fee, and I order just hot chocolate. The thing with pumpkin spice is that I feel like I’m eat ing a vegetable; imagine eating asparagus pie. During fall time, everyone should get hot chocolate and definitely not pumpkin spice. It even smells funny. I get it: pumpkins are cute and everything, but they are so overdue. In a way, I’m bored of them. I just am not so crazy about pumpkin spice, especially just because it is fall.l Not enough people even eat it or drink it for it to be so popular. It is very hit or miss. I also feel like everytime I’m eating it, I’m eating a candle.

Lisette’s Gazette

Short, brunette, pretty, brown-eyed. Automatically one looks for appearance. How someone looks and behaves tends to define who they are right away.

It’s sad but normalized. We have all done it: judged someone due to the way they look and behave.

The worst part of it is that we judge ourselves for the way we look on the outside, and we let it define us. I am a part of that problem. The insecurities never go away, and they make us look at ourselves in the mirror and think that we will never be good enough. In high school especially, we have the idea of an American dream: high school style.

Wanting to be popular, have social status, look the way others look. It’s wrong. But this is not what gets you through high school. From my senior year to my freshman year, I have learned a lot. I learned that I don’t need to be perfect, I don’t need to always know what I’m doing, my outside is nowhere near my inside. It is the complete opposite.

I have to stop judging myself and others because the friends I have made are because of the person I have grown to be. The flaws I have embraced, the immaturities that I have further matured in. High School puts a lot of pressure on you, on me, on everyone, but you don’t always know what you’re doing, you don’t have to know who you are.

The feeling of being lost, not knowing where you fit, whether it is academically or even socially, going through all these battles because that is what high school is all about. Will I ever know who I am? Where do I fit? Till this day, i don’t know who i am, what i do know is my outside is not who i am, better yet what is seen of me.

Keira:

See, for the longest time, I was a pumpkin spice hater–any sort of pumpkin flavoring really. Pumpkin pie, no thank you. Pumpkin spice lattes, I’ll pass. Even pumpkin scented candles boiled my blood. I refused to try anything pumpkin because I had such a hatred for it…until I tried Dunkin’ Donuts pumpkin donut. It was life changing. I couldn’t believe I had been missing out on pumpkin treats! So the next day, I went to Starbucks and decided to get a pumpkin spice latte. I had found a new found love for pumpkin; it had been the best decision of my entire life to get this latte. I took one sip and immediately regretted it. The latte was one of the worst things I had ever tasted. I was so confused! Was pumpkin spice really that nice? My answer to that question is: only the artificially flavored pumpkin spice treats have my approval!

I do know that I have had many successes in my time at McAuley with a sense of belonging, how I have made connections and opportunities because it isn’t about what you are, but rather who you are going to become.

above. Gabi Hynes spreading the Pumplin Spice love! She likes to bring in Pumpkin flavored cupcakes to her Journal ism class to share!

Photo by Lisette Corral

above.Keira Jarrett can’t help but be a fan of the pumpkin flavor during the fall months. photo by Gabi Hynes

above. Lisette Corral looks at the prop Pumpkin with dis gust. She is not a fan!

Photo by Keira Jarrett

Do you like Pumpkin Spice? Scan the QR code to cast your vote!

Lisette Corral

photo provided by HR imaging

Neptune seen in a new light

Lily O’Connor

On September 21, the public received a photo of Neptune in infrared light. The James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) captured Neptune and its rings, which have not been seen for over 30 years. This photo has provided experts with more information than they have received since the 1980s. The distant planet appears a faint white color in the new image rather than its famous blue hue.

than 20 years in the making, and JWST delivered,” tweeted Dr. Heidi B. Hammel, an interdisciplinary scientist and a planetary scientist focused on Uranus and Neptune.

The first and only other time Neptune’s rings were photographed was in 1989 by Voyager 2. This was also the last time there was a new picture of the rings until now. Besides the rings, Voyager 2 also discovered five of Neptune’s moons. Voyager 2 was a space probe launched by NASA in 1977. As the farthest planet in our solar system, Neptune was the last planet the spacecraft visited. It was also the planet it got closest to, passing above Neptune’s north pole a mere 3,000 miles away. The photo Voyager 2 took of Neptune shows thin, faint rings and a bright glowing orb. The other photos that it took are the most common images of the planet, depicting Neptune as a bright blue shade.above. Neptune and Triton, Neptune’s largest moon, seen in an image taken by The James Webb Space Telescope.

image provided by National Aeronautics and Space Administration

The James Webb Space Telescope was ready for use in December 2021. It is a collaboration between NASA, the European Space Agency and the Canadian Space Agency. It was made to try to learn more about the creation of the universe. The telescope uses a Near-Infrared Imaging (NIRCam) to capture infrared or invisible light. Neptune is considered an “ice giant” because of its atmosphere composed of heavy gasses. The main gas its atmosphere is composed of is methane. Methane absorbs invisible light, so in the new photo, Neptune looks pale and transparent with bright white spots.

“Not gonna lie. I ugy-cried when I saw THE FIRST JWST NEPTUNE IMAGES! ‘OMG - LOOK AT THE RINGS’ I was yelling, making my kids, my mom, even my cats look. More

Finding diseases through teardrops

Lilly Daggy

Since the late 1980s, there have been many new innovations in the realm of DNA testing. We’ve relied on fingerprinting, blood tests and saliva samples to help identify diseases.Well, in July of 2022, a new contender entered the ring of DNA testing: teardrop samples.

Like blood, saliva and urine, tears contain DNA. However, up until recently, it has been harder to collect DNA from teardrops because there is very little liquid compared to when scientists collect DNA using other methods.

But, on July 20, 2022, a team of scientists, researchers and engineers at Wenzhou Medical University took study participants’ tears and combined them with a solution which made it easier to analyze the DNA in their tears.

“We wanted to demonstrate the potential of using tears to detect disease,” says Fei Liu, one of the biomedical engineers on the team. The solution they used helped to isolate the sacs which contained the DNA they needed to conduct the study.

The data they gathered shows that DNA in tears helps to detect dry eye disease because it has a distinct print compared to that of healthy eyes. Scientists also believe that the data they gathered could help to track the progression of diabetes, breast cancer and other diseases.

Before the researchers at Wenzhou Medical University made their solution, it was very hard to test DNA through teardrop samples. Their previous methods were impractical

because only sacs with a high enough density could be analyzed, and that was not something the scientists could predict. Using the old method of testing required very high effort, but yielded a low reward. However, it was beneficial to conduct tests because they’re good indicators of certain diseases. Still, people were often discouraged from doing it. With the new method the researchers adopted, it’s easier to analyze the DNA because the sacs become isolated faster.

With this new technology, researchers are eager to find more diseases which could be

tracked through teardrop samples, and they are even trying to look into whether or not the DNA can detect heightened levels of stress and depression.

“This is just the beginning. Tears express something that we haven’t really explored,” said Luke Lee, a bioengineer on the team.

Hopefully, we will get to see the efforts of the team come to fruition in the coming years. Their work is crucial in finding ways to detect disease, and it is only a matter of time before they make another groundbreaking discovery.

above. Infographic showing the process of collecting and diagnosing diseases through teardrop collection. infographic by the American Chemical Society studies from Liang Hu, Ting Zhang, Huixiang Ma, et al

Cheer up, McAuley!

Evelyn Ivers

Get up, McAuley! The first schoolsponsored competitive cheerleading team is making its way to McAuley this year. The Mother McAuley athletic department is creating a competitive cheerleading program to represent the Mighty Macs! “I’m so excited to help grow the program and represent McAuley!” said Sarah Fitzgerald 12. The competitive cheer team will compete in their very first season during the 2022-2023 school year, creating McAuley’s 14th athletic team!

Most people think of cheerleading as what you would see at a major sporting event such as football or basketball. Competitive cheerleading routines do not contain the typical cheers and routines you would see on the sidelines of a football or basketball game. These routines are two minutes and 30 seconds long and are composed of many different elements and skills. Stunting, tumbling, pyramids, jumps and dancing are the main elements that make up competitive cheer routines. “I can’t wait to learn more about cheerleading and hopefully bring more girls into the sport!” Taylor Curran 12 stated. These routines are also scored by a panel of judges in competition against other high school teams. The competitive cheer team will participate in many different competitions throughout the year against teams from across the state.

After being sanctioned in 2005, competitive cheerleading is one of the newest sports in the Illinois High School Association (IHSA), the governing body of high school sports across

all of Illinois. The sport is rapidly growing as there are now hundreds of teams from all across the state competing each year. Teams compete in different categories based on size (small, medium, and large), and there is even a coed category. Obviously, McAuley’s team will not be entering the team in that category!

Competitive cheer will join basketball and bowling as a winter sport, so the season will take place from early November to late February. Throughout the season, teams will compete against other teams in the state which will end in the IHSA State Series. The state series begins with the sectional competition where the top five finishers in each sectional will advance to the state final competition. The sectional competitions are randomized based on location, school size and team size.

Tryouts will be taking place on Oct. 24, 2022 for the 2022-2023 season. You do not want to miss this milestone opportunity to represent the Mighty Macs!

left. Scan the QR code for the google form to receive information about tryouts!

Coach Lewis takes center court

Daniella Hall

The Macs are back, and they have a new head basketball coach by the name of Coach Lewis. With over 15 years of coaching and experience playing professional basketball, Lewis is starting at McAuley as the Assistant Athletic Director and Varsity Basketball Coach. Lewis’s emphasis on being a team player and his viewpoints on playing basketball align with the values of the McAuley athletic program.

“I think one of the most important things is being resilient and not giving up,” Lewis said. “I think it’s just being able to have a positive outlook no matter what the circumstance is.”

Having learned the game through coaching the AAU level, being a grad assistant coach at a university, playing professional basketball, coaching high school basketball and later coaching travel basketball, Lewis knows the game like the back of his hand. Now, he is looking forward to beginning his McAuley coaching career.

“Once we get started, I can get used to just learning how the team plays, tendencies,

and they can get used to me coaching too,” Lewis said.

When asked to describe his coaching style, Lewis emphasized being a team player and player accountability.

“I think as somebody who’s played the game, I can relate to the players relatively easily because I would never ask them to do something that I haven’t done myself,” Lewis said. “I would let them know that it’s okay to make mistakes as long as they’re trying hard.”

Lewis discussed how the actual coaching will not begin until after tryouts; however, the Macs basketball players are currently preparing for the season through workouts, open gyms and more. When asked about his goals for the season, Lewis discussed teaching, learning and ultimately winning.

“I want to win right away, so the learning will be accelerated,” Lewis said. “I have high expectations for the team this season.”

Play like a girl Lilly Coakley

Since last season, state runner-up title varsity volleyball player Tess Hayes 12 has been extremely busy. Hayes’s love for volleyball started when she was in grammar school and will continue the next four years at Michigan Tech University. Hayes says she always knew she wanted to play in college following the footsteps of her older brother, Danny. She also encouraged younger girls to keep working hard and putting in 110%.

Playing in college can be very different for high school athletes. “I am feeling ready to play at the college level. We have seven other commits on the team, so I’m prepared,” Hayes said.

Hayes is a setter for Mother McAuley’s team and will continue to play that position in college. Hayes believes McAuley will accomplish some major goals this season.

“The main goal is definitely to win state,” Hayes said excitedly. It doesn’t seem too far from reality with seven other girls on the team committed to play in college.

Hayes had a very good season last year, going all the way down to Illinois State University for the IHSA State Championship.

“I would like to see our team play even more unified,” Hayes said. She knows it’s important to have a strong team with strong values to prepare herself for college. For the most part, Hayes and her teammates have been extremely successful last season and this season. The girls were successful in beating Edwardsville Highschool at state to play against Metea Valley in the final.They won second overall.

Being Hayes’s last season at McAuley, this is the last season to accomplish all those goals, but it seems she is extremely confident it will all get done!

photo provided by Tess Hayes

graphic by Evelyn Ivers

Artist spotlight

Tiffany Gonzalez

Senior Olivia Villasenor is passionate about her art work, and she is excited about her upcoming paintings and drawings. She has taken an art class since freshman year. Villasenor is now a senior at Mother McAuley. Her inspiration for art came from the music she would listen to: “I usually get a feeling or idea that I really want to express but struggle to do so with words,” Villasenor said. Her art journey began the summer before second grade, and it was the moment she realized she was going to take this seriously. Villasenor sat down with a pencil and paper and there it began.

Villasenor is currently enrolled in AP Art and Design. She loves to draw people both in realism and in her own personal style. She has also been a part of NAHS since sophomore year. It was always satisfying for Villasenor to be able to express her thoughts and emotions. “It was an outlet to shut out from the world for a minute and just be in your own world,” said Villasenor. “Coming into the world of art lets out all your creativity and is able to set you free.” She loves to draw anything that comes to mind or ideas she might have.

Senior Olivia Villasenor envisions herself taking a career path in art. “I just go with the flow of my art,” Villasenor said. No matter where Villasenor might end up, her art will surely make an impact on many people.

It’s o-fish-ial!

Ella Martin

Have you heard the fin-tastic news, McAuley? Well, it’s o-fish-ial. The Mother McAuley Liberal Arts fall musical is bringing the production of “The Little Mermaid” to the community this November. This year’s musical is about a young mermaid named Ariel who falls in love with a human prince, Eric. While her father forbids the relationship, Ariel confides in a sea witch, Ursula, who promises to change Ariel’s fins into legs in exchange for her beautiful voice. Though we all had a blast watching last year’s production of “Meet me in St. Louis,” this year’s show is going to present a whole new insight into the McAuley theater department.

“I chose to do the musical because ‘The Little Mermaid’ has been my favorite Disney movie since I was little,” said Ava Zvejnieks 10, playing a featured tapper and a part of the dance ensemble. “I always wanted to have Ariel’s hair as a kid, so I’m really glad that I get to be a part of this show!”

When asked about the most meaningful aspect of “The Little Mermaid” being their senior show, the upperclasswomen responded with very well-thought out answers. “I think that ‘The Little Mermaid’ is really a show about discovery, which is very fitting as we start to apply to college and think about our lives outside of McAuley,” said Catie Shultz 12, playing Sebastian in the show. “‘The Little Mermaid’ is also a staple movie from my childhood, so it’s really special to me to get to work with this story that I loved so much as a kid.”

Not only are the cast members thrilled for the performance, but also the behindthe-scenes members, the stage crew, have a lot in store for this production. “This year, Mother McAuley is renting a fly system, which will bring a new level to the already impressive theater department,” said Head of build crew and student fly system manager, Caroline Deiters 11. “The wave lights are a very exciting feature to the set, as well as the flying system that will hold a number of the actors to make them appear to fly,” said Sound Designer Katie Wainwright 10. I’m hooked! There is no fishy business. This show is going to be one fin stopper!

Family-friendly fall flicks

Hocus Pocus 2: Feeling nostalgic of your childhood this Halloween season? Well I have good news for you! “Hocus Pocus 2” was released on Disney+ on Sept. 30. It is rated PG. The new movie will feature the original witches played by Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker and Kathy Najimy. This time around the witches are brought back to life by three high school girls played by Whitney Peak, Lilia Buckingham and Belissa Escobedo. Have a fun throwback movie night this Halloween. Rewatch the original “Hocus Pocus” and then watch the sequel!

Spirit Halloween: The Movie: If you’re looking for a spooky movie night this October, look no further than “Spirit Halloween: The Movie!” It is rated PG-13 and was released on all Video on Demand (VOD) platforms on Oct. 11. The horror movie follows three friends who dare to spend the night in a Spirit Halloween store located in a deserted mall. It stars Rachael Leigh Cook, who also stars in the 1999 film “She’s All That,” and Christopher Lloyd, who plays in many movies, such as the “Back to the Future” trilogy.

Pinocchio: If you’re looking for nostalgia but you’re not into Halloween, then Disney+ has another option for you. The live action “Pinocchio” was released on Sept. 8. This movie is a remake of the classic 1940s animated Disney movie “Pinocchio.” Benjamin Evan Ainsworth will star as Pinocchio, and the movie features other big names like Tom Hanks, Cynthia Erivo and Luke Evans. It is rated PG so this movie would make for a great fall family movie night!

Black Panther: Wakanda Forever: Are you an action movie lover or a Marvel fan? Luckily, the second Black Panther movie will be in theaters on Nov. 11. Although the lead Chadwick Boseman sadly passed away in 2020, most of the original cast will be in the new movie. This includes Tenoch Huerta and Letitia Wright. There are lots of theories about what is coming next in the Marvel Universe, so make sure to tune in! The movie is rated PG-13. If you are a big fan, you can even buy tickets right now!

Lily O’Connor

photos provided by Olivia Villasenor

graphic provided by Ms. McCasland