December 2017

News: Learn about the use of therapy dogs to relieve the stress of finals.

Page 3

Sports: The guys and gals of Ski Club are hoping for snow so they can shread it up this season. Page 4

Profiles: Worst christmas presents, candy cane flavors, and whether santa is real not.

Page 9

The Echo

» Read more: A recap of the best and worst movies, music, moments, and more of 2017. Read more on page 6

Neuqua Valley’s Student Newspaper

Dccember, 18 2017 Volume 20 Issue 4

Neuqua Valley High School

2360 95th St. Naperville, IL 60564

@NV_ECHO nvecho.com

Christkindlmarket spreads holiday cheer Adrian Lindell Staff Writer

From Nov. 24 through Dec. 24, Naper Settlement comes alive with holiday cheer as people come from far and wide to visit the Christkindlmarket.

Inspired by a market in Nuremberg, Germany, in 1545, the Christkindlmarket is named after the Christkind, an angel-like traditional German holiday figure similar to Santa Claus who brings gifts to children in German-speaking countries.

The special event has been a Chicagoland holiday tradition since 1996. There are three locations, each with their own special mug design for collectors: Chicago at Daley Plaza, the Park at Wrigley and Naper Settlement in Naperville.

First opened in 2016, the Naperville

location is a great place to find handblown ornaments and wooden handicrafts. Glaszauber Lauscha from Ernstthal, Germany, offers original German hand-made and hand-painted glass ornaments and bells. The Hoffman Company from Dresden, Germany, is known for their wooden Christmas decorations. It also features local vendors such as Twisted Olive, which is located in downtown Naperville and has a wide assortment of olive oils and balsamic vinegar.

The Christkindlmarket also features holiday entertainment and traditional German food such as bratwurst, pretzels and potato pancakes. There are drinks from both American and German traditions, including hot chocolate and Kinderglühwein, a non-alcoholic mulled wine. Be sure to catch the last few days of this unique holiday experience.

The Christkindlmarket at Naper Settlement attracts visitors from all over Chicagoland for its holiday spirit and traditional German food, drinks and handmade gifts. Photo courtesy of Christkindlmarket Naperville.

Taylor Swift’s New Reputation Sofia Mayhew Staff Writer

As an avid Taylor Swift supporter since the release of “Love Story” in 2008, I have long been awaiting the release of her sixth album. After a brutal three year wait, Taylor finally released her last album “Reputation.”

Starting off the album is Taylor’s second single from this project “...Ready For It?” an upbeat song that sets the tone for the rest of the synth pop bass-drop-y style for the rest of the album, a nice progression from her 80’s synth dominated “1989.” “Reputation” includes a number of other fast paced jams like “End Game” Featuring Future and Ed Sheeran, (the weirdest collab in pop music ends up being a match made in heaven), “I did Something Bad,”and “Don’t Blame Me.”

Taylor’s maturing as a person is evident in “Reputation” At the album halfway mark, we hear Taylor admitting to cheating on her partner in “Getaway Car.” Instead of playing the victim card, she admits to being in the wrong, something that would have been unheard of on past albums like “Fearless” or “Speak Now.” We also get a little bit more of that perspective in “Gorgeous.”

Following those are “Dancing With Our Hands Tied” and “King of My Heart” which are by far some of Taylor’s worst work ever. The beats sound incredibly awkward and the lyrics redundant. Not to mention the mess that is “This is Why We Can’t Have Nice Things.” I can’t seem to find anything good about this aint-Kanye anthem.

Although Taylor has changed and developed her music style over the course her career, it’s songs like “Call it What You

Want,” “Dress,” and “Delicate” that remind me why I fell in love with Taylor back in her country days. She is doing what she does best, capturing the fluttery feelings of being in a relationship and eloquently put them into a catchy song.

Listening to Taylor is like talking to your best friend about your crush, her ability to reach that level of intimacy with us is one of the reasons we she is so successful.

Taylor’s last song “New Year’s Day,” is what really makes this album whole.

The simple piano ballad with some guitar strumming that reminds us of her country days paired Taylor’s signature imagery like “there’s glitter on the floor after the party/girls carrying their shoes down in the lobby” makes your heart melt and put you in your feels for days. She ends the chorus by perfectly summing up what is arguably the thesis of her entire writing

thus far: “I want your midnights/But I’ll be cleaning up bottles with you on New Year’s Day.” That line is just the emptone of Taylor Swift.

Overall, Reputation was good, but it wasn’t great. It had its highs and lows, it wasn’t that cohesive, and some of the songs felt underdeveloped or too similar to her past work. It’s hard to review Taylor’s work as everything she makes post “1989” will inevitably live in it’s shadow.

“1989” was one of the best pop albums of this century and I doubt any other artist, even Taylor herself, can match its success. So, as we celebrate what is probably Taylor’s last album, we should remember to look back and also appreciate all of her work. Thank you Taylor, whenever I’ve needed a shoulder to cry on, your music has been there.

Students reveal their secrets to acing final exams Sofia Mayhew Staff Writer

Senior Andy Wang, recently accepted into Harvard University, getting in some early preping and studying for his AP Goverment and Politics final during his 7th peroid option. Photo by Sofia Mayhew.

Neuqua students are notorious for making a big deal out of finals. Stressing out, complaining and cramming are only some of the tactics student rely on to make it through exams. At a school so academically competitive, it is no surprise that students have picked up some on unusual study rituals during finals to try to give themselves a leg-up.These study quriks range from finding the perfect study space to changing your

diet. Altough some of these study ritualsmight seem unorthodox, students claim these techniques actually help them signifigly. These unconventional study habits might not work for everyone, if you don’t feel like putting in those long, tedious hours studying or your previous study habits have failed you, consider trying these quirky study habits. see more of FINALS SCERETS on page 4

2 Editor’s Note EDITORS-IN-CHIEF Kayla Monis Emily Oh

EDITORIAL BOARD Emeli Brewer Katya Brovkovych Sana Khadilkar Alya Khan

STAFF WRITERS Orion Elrod Ella Estopare Anika Haridas Grace Huff Madeline James Adrian Lindell Ashley Liu Sofia Mayhew Abigail McArthur-Self Rianna Panergalin Ava Pellegrino Presley Polvere Arti Rathore Cristina Rodriguez Emma Wightkin

SUPERVISOR Allyson Cagney OUR MISSION STATEMENT

The Echo is a student-run publication fueled by the dedication of the students that make up the staff to bring credible, cogent news tfo Neuqua Valley. Any student is welcome to join our staff of writers, reporters, and photographers.

A student editorial board is responsible for story assignments, story selection, and story publication along with the designing of the paper itself.

Letters to the Editor are accepted only if accompanied by a name and signature. Submit them along with any stories or tips to our email Any material submitted to The Echo is subject to editing for content and space.

Corrections for the November 2017 Issue:

Putting in the extra thought, not the extra dollar The Echo

Editorial Board

At this time of the year store signs read, “Extended Holiday Hours!” and “Holiday sales you can’t resist!.” Advertisements pile up in our mailboxes and even show up as we scroll through our social media. All signs seem to point us in the direction of the latest gadgets and gizmos that we hope will be a crowd pleaser on Christmas morning.

Gift giving, to many, is an art. We want our loved ones to like what we get them.

We also like the feeling of satisfaction

The Inevitable: Death, taxes and stress The Echo

Editorial Board

In a commuity that is blessed with financial and social success and attending one of the most academically competitive schools in the area, stress levels for Neuqua students are higher than ever. In fact, stress for students across the nation and the world are significantly higher than past years and are steadily rising.

As finals approach, the stress at Neuqua Valley is at an all time high from studying inbetween passing periods, cramming untill the early mornings and purchasing every AP Baron’s book Half Priced Books sells. The stress of acing finals or balancing border line grades can be heavy and overbearing to a vast majority. But, it is crucial for all of us to find ways to get on top of the stress, to cope with it.

The effects of stress is detrimental overall. Increased levels of stress begins to shut down the immune system, makine you succeptible to bacteria and viruses.

So, you’ll most likely get sick in combination with lack of sleep. So now, you’re stressed about getting stressed while being stressed.

Not only does stress take a toll physically, but it also effects you emotionally and mentally. Your body and your brain need sleep and if stress is preventing you from getting the amount of sleep or nutrition it needs, it can put you at risk, These are only a few minor effects of stress in the grand scheme of the detrimental toll it can take.

We will always experience some degree of stress as we progress in life. We move

‘Boys’’ was spelled as ‘Boy’s’ for Neuqua’s Boys’ Varsity Hockey team on page 1 previews.

Athena Bielawski’s answer was typed as ‘1020’ but was actually ‘1920’ on page 2.

‘Ms.’ was not added for Nicole Sayer and Kaitlyn Sparkman on page 9.

Mr. Zawlocki’s first name was not mentioned- Matthew Zawlocki- on page 9.

December 2017

that comes with it. And so, in pursuit of find this sensation we spend lots of money on the gifts we believe the people we are shopping for want.

But, even in reading gift guides of the best gift sets and top deals, people forget that sometimes the best gifts aren’t the ones that are of high monetary value.

Some people assume there is a positive correlation between the price tag of an object and the sentimentality and overall value of the gift. We also think that the legitimacy of a relationship can only be defined about how much we get someone and how much we get it for. This simply

The Echo wants to hear from you!

Submit your letters to the editors to: nvhsecho@gmail.com or visit neuquamedia.org for more information.

on to high school, college then adulthood and stress follows us. It may be different kinds of stress provoked by different catalysts but stress is stress. Nonetheless, we must learn how to cope and manage it; it is not too erly to develop stress coping habits now.

Find different way to get your mind off the thing stressing you out. Find something that lets you be free of your concerns and worries as cliche as that sounds.

Take a bath, get some coffee, go out with some friends, go to the gym, eat some cake, just do something that is enjoyable and makes you happy. Its not healthy to be completely imbursed in the stress and expectational tension and constant anxiety. Take a break and breathe a little.

However, this is not to say procrastinate or never do your work but to just simply take a breath. But these small ways to cope is to help you take breaths but to face your stress head on lets you sleep at night. The ony way to demolish the stress is to face whatever is causing it. If its homework, do it; if its finals, study; whatever it is, push through it and get it done. Figure it out and take action. All of theses small things to cope is useful when you’re under stress for a long time to act as break points but to truly reach a peaceful state of mind, its to rise above it and strive to finish what you started.

Death and taxes are inevitable but so is stress. Stress will follow you where ever you are whenever it wants to. So the best way to keep yourself sane and healthy to find coping methods to let yourself breath. But with that, you have to fight your battles head on to ever win them.

is not true.

We must remember that, although everyone enjoys a gift with a hefty price tag sometimes, we also appreciate a gift that is well thought out and has been pondered over with the receiver of the gift in mind. Receiving a well thought out gift often times outweighs an expensive gift that could have been given to just anyone on the streets.

This holiday season we must remind ourselves that the formula for the perfect gift doesn’t always mean we have to put in the extra dollar. We just need to put in the extra thought.

Calming playlist for finals: 1. Boots Of Spanish LeatherThe Lumineers 2. Holocene- Bon Iver 3. The Enemy- Andrew Belle 4. Cigarette Daydreams- Cage The Elephant 5. Earned It- Bootstraps 6. The Man Who Lives ForeverLord Huron 7. Barcelona- George Ezra 8. Mess is Mine- Vance Joy 9. Lose it- Oh Wonder 10. One Last Night- Vaults

Playlist for the holidays:

1. Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)- Michael Bublé 2. Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree- Brenda Lee 3. Jingle Bell Rock- Bobby Helms 4. Sleigh Ride- The Ronettes 5. Mistletoe- Justin Bieber Merry Christmas, Happy HolCONNECT WITH US: 6. idays- *NSYNC Twitter: @NVHS_Echo 7. Santa Claus Is Comin’ to Website: www.neuquame- Town- Bruce Springsteen 8. Blue Christmas- Elvis Presley dia.org Cold December Night- MiEmail: nvhsecho@gmail. 9. chael Bublé com 10. All I Want For Christmas is Instagram: @nvhs_echo You- Mariah Carey

Putting the right paw forward for finals Ashley Liu Staff Writer

‘Tis the season for stress for students spanning from freshmen year of high school to future graduates of colleges.

But there’s a solution for this, simply put - dogs.

It has been agreed by many officials that the teen years spent in high school and college are most stressful in the average life span. According to Michelle Maideberg of The Hill, teens have ranked 5.8 on the scale of stress compared to the average adult’s 5.1. Students in high school and college find themselves struggling to balance school work, a job, a social life and a family life, all the while receiving grades that don’t express their true potential. Majority of that stress is placed on the end of each semester: finals.

It has been proven time and time again by multiple reports and research about the benefit of pets, especially dogs on the human psyche. Simply petting a dog can lower blood pressure, reducing stress and any other mental strain. Dogs provide “physical, social, cognitive and emotional benefits” to counteract the immense stress, says the official Therapy Dog website. In the wake of the shooting of Sandy Creek Elementary School in Virginia, therapy dogs were among the first

responders, calming the survivors, relieving children and parents alike. If the dogs can calm people in the midst of a tragedy, the same should go for the students facing finals.

A few schools have offered this to their students including, Yale, NIU, and the local Joliet Junior College (JJC). Multitude of programs are essentially cost-free seeing as the dogs brought in are volunteers, pushing this program become widely sought out by many colleges and universities as well as a few high schools too.

“It’s entirely free to students and practically for universities...costs for the handlers themselves only amount to parking fees and registration fees for training their dogs,” says Jill Castellano of Forbes, “... the use of therapy dogs on college campuses has gone from nonexistent to the norm—one of the main reasons is because of the low cost.”

In Joliet Junior College, just a half hour away from Neuqua, the college offers a stress release program during the week of finals. It’s open and free to everyone, giving them a chance to play and relax with dogs before spending about two hours brooding over finals. “It’s much needed relaxation time with plenty of puppies and dogs to go around,” describes Stephanie, a sophomore of JJC who experienced the program first-hand, “The dogs

are as happy to be around you as you are to be around them.” The dogs assist the students to calm down and focus, dispersing the risk for a panicked freeze.

With all the programs, the dogs have

News 3

helped increase the rate in which students pass classes immensely. A cheap and effective way of ensuring the mental health of students and boosting their finals grade their life so depends on.

The therapy dogs come to comfort and relieve the students of stress. Therapy dog Hank helps de-stress students during finals week. The students love interacting and playing with him. Photo Courtesy of Michael Smith

Naperville car burglary spree Abigail McArthur-Self Staff Writer

As of Nov. 29, over 30 cars were burglarized in Naperville, and five were successfully stolen. The rash of crime started around Thanksgiving and hasn’t let up.

Almost all the cars were left unlocked, and some still had keys in them. The police were able to recover two of the stolen cars, but the rest remain missing. Most of the burglaries took place in parking lots and targeted cars where valuables were left in plain view.

For clarification- A burglary occurs when someone breaks into a car or house

with the intent to commit a crime. It includes attempting to steal the car itself, as well as attempts to steal property left inside a vehicle, such as purses, computers or phones. A theft occurs when property is successfully stolen.

Some of the burglaries appear to be connected, and the police believe a group known as the Felony Lane Gang may be responsible. The Felony Lane Gang is a group of “smash-and-grab thieves” from Florida, and they’ve targeted Naperville before in 2010, 2011, and 2013. They are also believed to be responsible for a string of burglaries earlier this year.

The Felony Lane Gang gets its name from its system of using the farthest bank

lane - where their faces will be least visible - to withdraw money using stolen bank cards and IDs. They are known for targeting the parking lots of places such as parks and health clubs.

Some of the recent burglaries, however, do not match the Lane Gang’s regular methods. The police believe that these burglaries are unconnected, and probably perpetrated by local individuals. Recently, some younger people in the Naperville area have been caught on tape trying to open car doors and taking things from any car that happens to be unlocked.

Officer James Tanksley explained that car burglary is type of crime all cities experience. He recommends that all stu-

dents, “lock their cars and take their keys with them, avoid leaving valuables in plain sight, watch your surroundings, and park in well-lighted areas.” He notes that the situation is comparable to the locker thefts at Neuqua.

They, like the car burglaries, occur when lockers are left unlocked and backpacks unattended. He stresses locking belongings, and explained that school used to tag lockers that were left unlocked with reminders to lock them in the future, but they have now stopped. It is up to students to remember to keep their property safe.

Family turns tragedy into hope Katya Brovkovych News Editor

A women from southern Illinois went to the hospital to give birth to a little girl name Elle and then leaves empty handed.

Christi Kearns’ 4th child was a stillborn baby leaving the Kearns family devastated. “As we were leaving the hospitals the nurses brought in a gift. That really changed our hearts and gave us hope,” said Mrs. Kearns. Inside the present was an anonymous letter, a poem and a teddy bear now named Elle Bear.

This small gift inspired the Kearns to spread hope in the community by hiding brightly decorated rocks around southern Illinois to bring awareness to a special project called the Elle Project. “A kindness like this, and frankly a determined objective like this, is hard to come by in

the world. For a family to turn a tragedy into something that gives hope and joy to others, the event is truly something that warms the heart to read and learn about,” says Christian Charley, senior. The Elle project raises money to create bags of stuffed animals for sick preschooler or toddler children at the Carbondale Memorial Hospital. “It’s heartwarming to hear that people are giving back to their community and giving others hope and inspiration to kind things to others as well.” said Corrine Medina, junior.

Since Nov. 27, the family has raised money for 49 bags. Everything will be taken to the Carbondale Memorial Hospital a week before Christmas. To further support the cause people can drop off donations at Extreme Kids in Marion or donate through PayPal (https://www. paypal.me/elleproject).

Meet “Elle Bear,” the bear that inspired the Elle Project dedicated to the Kearn’s child that passed away.

Photo courtesy of Mrs. Kearns.

December 2017

4 Sports

Ski Club only grow- The ball is rolling for girls’ bowling ing in popularity Ava Pellegrino

Staff Writer

The Neuqua Valley Ski Club is an up and coming club run by Mr. Roller and Dean Trayser. Members of the club go on four trips to hills in Wisconsin and Illinois, and with the skiing season just beginning, they are excited for what lies ahead.

Dean Trayser has been sponsoring the Ski Club for several years and explains, “In the winter it is hard to get away from everything and be active outside so ski club is a great way for students to get out there and do something.”

Ski Club is a popular club for that main reason; especially after getting back into the swing of second semester, it’s an exciting way for students to relieve some stress and have a fun winter excursion.

Neuqua Valley senior Ryan Mannion has been snowboarding since he was little, and says, “Skiing and snowboarding are great sports that you can enjoy your whole life. It’s a feeling that no oth-

er sport really gives you, and Neuqua’s Ski Club is a great way to learn because they offer beginner lessons on some of the trips.”

However, there is a lot of responsibility and liability that comes with being a part of Ski Club. Because skiing is such a dangerous sport, Neuqua Valley takes it very seriously. Apart from signing a waiver, Dean Trayser says that a separate car is driven to the ski slopes in case of injury. “There always seems to be an accident because students like to ski outside of their skill level, but it’s usually a minor injury,” he elaborates.

Being a member of Ski Club is a privilege that its members take seriously due to the risks that come with such an exhilarating sport.

Ski Club’s popularity only continues to grow and members get more excited as the trips get closer. Although skiing is a high risk sport, Ski Club is a great way to stay active during the winter months and members are excited for the upcoming trips.

Neuqua Valley Ski Club is popular not only with skiers, but avid snowboarders as well. Neuqua senior Ryan Mannion enjoys snowboarding with the Ski Club, which he has been a member of for 4 years. Photo by Ryan Mannion.

Cristina Rodriguez Staff Writer

The girls’ bowling team’s season began this month at Parkside Lanes and the girls’ have high hopes of bowling at state this season with their strong team.

The girls ended with a strong season last year making it to sectionals, an accomplishment they have never achieved before. According to the head coach, Ms. Lhotak, the girls brought home four trophies at the end of last season. Losing only one varsity player this season, the varsity team has four strong returning players to bring them far this season.

Since entering the DuPage Valley Conference, there has not been a conference for the bowling team yet. However, last year Naperville North and Naperville Central founded their own bowling programs which allowed the DVC to have a conference for the bowlers.

The head coach of the bowling team, Ms. Lhotak, has big goals for her team this year. She says that “my team goal

is to make it to state and I have very high hopes for the team this year.” She thinks that this year’s team has the abilities needed to make it to state.

When Neuqua’s bowling program first started they had around 20 players.

As the years went on the team size had declined to as low as 13 bowlers. Bowling has gradually gained popularity and more players have joined their fellow Wildcats over the past couple years.

During team practices, both JV and Varsity practice together eliminating competition between practice. The team consists of girls with many different personalities who all come together to make one team with the common goal to make it to state. Good luck to the girls’ bowling team as they practice hard this season on their journey to state.

The girls’ bowling team had a match against Waubonsie Valley’s team at their home bowling alley.

The girls and the audience are always cheering each other on with their unique chants and high spirits. Photo by Cristina Rodriguez

Running into the new year with 5k races Madeline James Staff Writer

With the rush of the holidays approaching, the promise of food, family and sleeping in awaits. While relaxation is an important part of any break, taking time to self-care- whether that may be meditating or disconnecting from social media, is also important. For those whose self care regimens include running, there are many opportunities to get out and run, even if it is below freezing.

Many fun races take place in Chicago over the winter months, presenting a good opportunity for runners to go into the city to stay active and have fun. The Ugly Sweater Run is a Chicago tradition that takes place in the Museum Campus area downtown Chicago on December 16. Runners get to cruise past some of Chicago’s iconic landmarks, as well as

December 2017

receiving a beanie hat and a cup of hot chocolate at the finish line. Registration is $45 for adult runners.

Closer to the New Year, both the New Year’s Eve Run and the New Year’s Day 5k are suitable for all, from experienced runners to novices. The New Year’s Eve 5k, hosted by the Chicago Sport and Social Club, takes place in Lincoln Park.

The run begins in the morning which gives runners plenty of time to spend the evening partying. Runners will also receive a beanie hat, as well as a finisher’s medal. Registration is $55 through the day of the race.

If you are not planning on spending the first day of 2018 sleeping in, the New Year’s Day 5k is suitable for you.

The race starts at in Lincoln Park. Participants receive a performance t-shirt, as well as a complimentary beverage following the race. Runners get to experience views of Diversey Harbor, as well as the lakefront bike path. To register,

Runners participate in the 2016 Ugly Sweater Run, featuring bright colors and faces. Photo courtesy of Ugly Sweater Run.

go to https://www.chicagoevents.com/ events/new-years-day-5k-run/.

Finally, the week following New Years is a great time to start your 2018 resolutions, and the Polar Dash is a great way to meet up with others sharing the same fitness goals as you. The Polar Dash includes a 5K, 10K and half marathon option. All participants receive a performance fleece jacket, making it well worth

your time to run this race. The course surrounds Grant Park in Chicago, and takes runners up and down Lake Shore Drive. Prices for registration range from $45-55.

Winter break is a great time to spend time with family, eat lots of food, and to stay active.

Opinions 5

End the conversation on discrimination Orion Elrod Staff Writer

After the Supreme Court’s 2015 decision to legalize same sex marriage, many couples were denied service by various store owners that they approached in preparation for their nuptials.. One of these couples includes Charlie Craig and David Mullins, two men that were denied a wedding cake by Colorado native and baker Jack C. Phillips due to his Christian faith. Though this issue should arguably be in the past by now, almost two years after the event, the case just recently reached the Supreme Court, stirring up the controversy again.

In Masterpiece Cakeshop v. Colorado Civil Rights Commision, the plaintiff, Jack C. Phillips, argues that discrimination should be allowed on the basis of religion under the First Amendment. It initially seemed that this would not be a large problem, taken solely in the context of same-sex marriage. If a baker refuses to make a wedding cake, find another

bakery. To many people, the issue seems as simple as that. However, I believe the Senate Committee said it best when passing the Civil Rights Act, discrimination “ is not simply dollars and cents, hamburgers and movies; it is the humiliation, frustration and embarrassment that a person must surely feel when he is told that he is unacceptable as a member of the public.” The main issue is not that people will not provide service to same-sex couples preparing to wed, it is the feeling of ostracization that comes with it.

If Phillips succeeds and discrimination based on religious belief is allowed, that same ostracization may be extended to all minority groups, not just the LGBT community. Taking religious texts out of context, most major religions state something against all minority groups. The Bible has Leviticus 20:13, stating that “If a male lies with a male as with a woman, both of them have committed an abomination; they shall surely be put to death.” In the Quran, “the men are a degree above them [women]” (2:228). Prophet Brigham

Young even states “Cain slew his brother … and the Lord put a mark on him, which is the flat nose and black skin …

Then another curse is pronounced upon that race- that they should be the ‘servant of servants,’ and they will be until that curse is removed” (Journal of Discourses v.7 pp 290-291).

If all of these quotes were taken literally, Mormons could refuse to serve African Americans because they are seen as cursed servants. Christians would not have to serve LGBT citizens because they simply wouldn’t exist anymore, they would have been outcast or put to death. Muslim bosses and business owners could not be tried for discrimination against female employees because men are automatically assumed to be above women.

Luckily, most modern interpretations of religion recognize the archaic nature of these statements. As society has progressed, religion has too. Even the Pope has stated that he believes the church should apologize to both the gay people and women it has offended. Despite

this progress, Phillips’ success in court could allow individuals who still choose to openly discriminate to routinely and systematically punish minority groups.

This case could set a dangerous precedent, causing many civil rights movements to drastically regress. Freedom to practice religion should always be allowed, as it is a fundamental human right.

That being said, one person’s religious ideology should not have the power to infringe upon the freedoms of others. Let’s allow this conversation to die along with this court case.

Protestors assemble outside the courthouse.

Photo Courtesy of Beloit Daily News.

Why ACT and SAT scores do Replacing the Christmas not define student success spirit Presley Polvere Staff Writer

The ACT and SAT college entrance exams have been worrisome for most high school students. From Freshman to Junior year, students are spending thousands of hours prepping for these tests as their parents spend thousands of dollars for their preparatory classes. For many years the administration of these tests has provided colleges with a better understanding of what a student can achieve at the college level. However, the ACT and SAT tests don’t define the student and shouldn’t be so highly weighed in order to predict the success a student will have at the next level..

In the United States 16-20% of students have high test anxiety and another 18% of students have trouble with moderate test taking anxiety. Test-takers can experience blanks or freezes while they are taking the test which increases their chance of making mistakes. Test taking anxiety can also impact a student’s memory and reading techniques. So a student who suffers from test taking anxiety has a disadvantage on standardized tests.

Even though test scores aren’t the only thing going into college admissions decisions, students who come from lower socio-economic statuses are disadvantaged. Students who are backed by money throughout their entire education have an advantage on students who aren’t given that opportunity. Schools should take into consideration the background of

different students so that they can tailor ACT/SAT classes in school so thousands of dollars aren’t spent outside of the school environment. When it comes to ACT/SAT prep classes, the students with “1600s” and “36s” are paying thousands of dollars to be trained in order to get that score. Whereas kids who don’t have thousands of dollars for prep classes aren’t receiving strategies on how to take the test better. The ACT/SAT reflects upon a student’s socioeconomic status and the ability for that individual or his/her family to pay.

Colleges express that the ACT and SAT will show the achievement of a student but how can answering multiple choice questions and answering essay questions measure social and presentational skills? They can’t. Sitting on a Saturday morning answering questions about subjects that students learned years before can’t relate to how a student speaks and leads conversation in a social setting. These students should be given credibility for creating social interaction, but there is no “record” of this because it is not a number. And some colleges don’t offer essays for students to express their strengths but only require ACT/ SAT scores and GPA. A student’s GPA should be weighed much heavier than his/her ACT/SAT score because that is a reflection of an entire high school career. From socioeconomic status to test anxiety, the ACT and SAT do not define the potential of the student.

Katya Brovkovych News Editor

When I was going to shop for my costume for Halloween, I was overwhelmed with not the choices for Halloween decorations, but the choices for Christmas decorations. The Christmas shopping season is just getting longer and is swallowing up Halloween and Thanksgiving altogether. Presently, the Christmas holidays for most people are about getting gifts and the more luxurious gifts the better. Christmas has become over commercialized with new traditions like buying Christmas cards, buying expensive gifts, and buying overpriced decorations.

In 2016, the average American spent $929 on holiday gifts. Parents spend on average $271 per child and 1 in 10 moms claim that they are willing to spend up to $500 per child. The total holiday sales this year are actually expected to exceed $1 trillion. People buy their self-esteem and self-worth by going on Christmas frenzy to prove themselves and show off to others. More often, neighbors are going into competitive mode over who has the most expensive and the biggest number of Christmas decorations. Mirroring parent’s behavior, kids are becoming more and more materialistic and get ashamed to bring to school less expensive phones or wear not top-notch running shoes.

We are told that holiday season should

be the happiest time of the year. Yet, according to the National Institute of Health, holiday season is the time when people become really depressed. Hospitals and police report higher incidents of attempted suicides. Psychiatrists report a significant increase in patients complaining about depression. One North American survey confirmed that 45% of participants dreaded the holiday season. The main reason for depression over holidays is unrealistic expectations and excessive self-reflection for many people because they compare themselves to people who seem to be better off than them. Others become anxious because of the pressure to spend tons of money on gifts leads to increasing debt.

Instead of focusing on spending quality time with kids, parents are focusing on working overtime to get money that will be spent for presents. In the past parents tried to build memories by spending time and doing activities with kids that lasted as the best memories Parents were cooking with kids from scratch, decorating homemade cards, adorning Christmas trees with DIY crafts, spending time together by making gifts for the loved ones, and always dressing up for the Christmas day. We need to start to remember the real meaning of holidays: the celebration of spirit of love, support for each other, and quiet happiness.

School stress and its relationship with teen suicide Arti Rathore Staff Writer

Let’s take a minute to break-down the school year, shall we? Nine months of school followed by three months of summer where our minds are void of anything we aren’t interested in, and then we delve right back in. When we finally learn how to get our feet on the ground again, finals, standardized tests, and course recommendations for next year are already shoved in our minds.

The amount of times I’ve heard a friend stress over dropping from an A to a B in an Honors/AP class is absurd. And if I multiplied that by the number of times those words are said in just one grade level, I could afford Kylie Jenner’s mansion twice.

Students have every reason to be stressing the way they do these days and it’s unhealthy. The way our school system is setup and the unrealistic requirements of a world that runs on money is bound to cause stress. It’s not that the school isn’t trying to help, it’s that they aren’t helping in the right way.

According to Guidance Counselor Shawna Stanley, the #1 response to the question “What do you think will be your greatest challenge this year?” was stress about homework load, career path, and time management. “We live in a high-achieving community,” she said.

“We have to dig in and see what we can control and what we can’t control.”

The removal of the valedictorian award and class ranks was appreciable but select-

ing one student to represent departments isn’t. I know that it is a way to honor the people who deserve it but it provokes unhealthy amounts of worry and competition within certain people.

The stress has reached a point where kids are inflicting self-harm. Stress due to academics is one of the leading causes of teen suicide. Telegraph.co.uk discovered that 130 suicides in people under 20 were connected to school pressures. Sixty-six of them were anywhere from 10-17 and 5 of them were younger than 14. This stress epidemic doesn’t start and end in America, either. Global Education Magazine states that 20 percent of middle and high schoolers contemplate suicide in South Korea and 20 students in India commit suicide everyday due to stress

from exams. This might feel like a statistic overload but it’s the sad reality of school today.

The stress and pressure that students put upon themselves is the reason many feel like they are failing. What can we as a community do to reduce the impact stress is having on our generation of youths?

Maybe trimesters instead of semesters or year-long schooling with longer break.

Maybe a reduced workload or finals only in subjects necessary outside of highschool. Maybe we can’t do anything other than learn to accept one another and stop fighting for the top spot. Stress is an epidemic spreading further and further amongst the youthful minds of our future and it needs a solution. We need to stop stress-related suicide.

December 2017

6 Feature

World United States Presidential Inauguration Washington, D. C. January 20

Solar Eclipse

North America, South America, Africa and Europe August 21

Hurricanes Irma, Maria, Jose and Harvey FAll

Australia legalizes same-sex marriage Sydney, Australia December 7

Celebrity Babies

Alexis Olympia 9/13 Serena Williams and Alexis Ohanian Bodhi Soleil Reed Somerhalder 7/25 Nikki Reed and Ian

2017 has been one for reflects on the high

Somerhalder

Ella Clooney and Alexander Clooney 6/6 George and Amal

vine compil a-

December 2017

floss dance

#trending

“vibe with it�

Feature 7

movies

Lookbook Balayage hair Denim on denim Retro sports

r the books. The Echo hlights of the year.

American Teen Khalid

Harry Styles Harry

Divide Ed Sheeran March 3

music

Culture Migos January 27

Emeli Brewer

December 2017

8 Student Life

Students reveal their Holiday gifts that won’t secrets to acing finals break the bank Grace Huff Staff Writer

Junior Will Weisz uses his go-to study tactic, eating fruit snacks, to review for finals. Photo Courtesy of Will Weisz

Sofia Mayhew Staff Writer

Neuqua is notorious for making a big deal out of finals. Stressing out, complaining and compulsively cramming are some of the tactics students use to make it through exams.

Along with freaking out the freshmen, this overreaction to a test, which ultimately will only alter grades at most 2%, causes a lot of avoidable stress. Some Neuqua students have taken to some unusual study habits to get through finals this semester.

During finals season sophomore Sophia Remski does her revison like a normal student, but she only does it at the library. She credits all her past success to practically living at the library during the weeks leading up to finals.

Remski says it “gives her a space where she can get completely focused.”

Junior Will Weiss’s study tactic is a little bit less involved, but that doesn’t mean it is not as successful. While Weiss revises, he rewards himself with a fruit snack for every correct answer he gets. Although this may be a good incentive to concentrate while studying,it might make you hungry during your actual test.

Another junior who alters his diet during finals is Ryan Kory. Kory choses to cut out dairy

Junior Ryan Kory getting in some early finals preparation. Photo by of Sofia Mayhew.

from his diet in order to eliminate the stomach aches it gives him, and in turn improve focus.

Having a clean diet during finals season can be a good idea as stomach health is in direct relation with mental clarity according to Harvard Health Blog.

Mental Clarity is something a lot of Neuqua students try to achieve during finals season.

Maggie Mokrycki, a junior, likes to make sure she keeps her mental balance in check during this hectic time. Mokrycki devotes a good chunk of time to ensuring she does not get too stressed out by going to hot yoga classes, drinking hot teas and lighting peppermint, lemongrass and yan-yang incense to boost focus. Mokrycki even carries little essential oil bottles with her during finals to ensure maximum concentration.

Senior Andy Wang established his finals rituals after a freshman year crash and burn. Now Wang prioritizes and starts studying early, a classic method. If you have yet to find your finals niche, Wang’s method is probably the best option (seriously though this kid has like a 4.6 gpa). You cannot go wrong with an early start and some hard work.

Whatever study method you choose this year, make sure to study hard.

The holiday season is the time of year to spend cherished time with your friends and family...with the added on expense of buying them gifts of course. Although the idea of giving your loved ones the most lavish gifts seems the most ideal, the average teenager doesn’t always have the necessary funds to accommodate those wishes. Here are just a few cheap alternatives to spark your holiday gift giving spirit all the way from easy DIY’s to cheap local shops.

For all you pinterest lovers, you’ll want your glue guns locked and loaded once I tell you about these fast and easy diys.

All you will need is an empty ornament globe, your most festive ribbon, and your finest hot chocolate mix and mini marshmallows! The basic steps include: filling the empty ornament with your preferred hot chocolate mix and marshmallow ratio, sealing it up so the contents don’t spill everywhere, and lastly tieing the festive ribbon around the top to give it that extra holiday flare! If you want to go old school, take the time to make your friends personalized mixtapes! Fill it with all the songs you jam out to in the car and of course add your favorite holiday music to make it really special!

Downtown Naperville has been known to have cute local shops that are perfect for this gift giving season. Head on down to Paper Source, located on 215 S Main St., for perfect small and quirky gifts ranging from $5-$20, even sign up you and your friends for a class on how to make your own crafts this holiday season.

Next mosy on over to Serendipity, the small thrift shop located on 12 W Jefferson Ave. Here you’ll be sure to find perfect, high quality holiday sweaters for you and your friends that are just under $10!

If leaving the confines of your cozy home this cold holiday season seems almost unbearable, then online is the way to go. Urban Outfitters has been known

to carry overpriced products, but as of recently they released a “gifts” section to their website. In their “gifts under $12” section they carry a wide variety of gifts all the way from cute mugs for $10 to a screaming goat figurine just under $10 that comes with a 32-page illustrated booklet all about the wonders of goats. Overall it seems pretty evident that whether you are the do-it-yourself type or the stay at home type you will have no problem getting your friends and family the best gift for this holiday season.

Give your friends a giggle this holiday season with this perfect goat figurine! Just press a button and hear it scream! Photo courtesy of Urban Outfitters

Spice up your gift giving by making this fun and festive hot chocolate ornament for your friends and family this holiday season Photo Courtesy of Sprinkle Some Fun

Houses, hills, and hot chocolate: The holy trinity of the holiday season Emma Wightkin Staff Writer

Illinois’s cold winter weather can have a lot of us feeling down, but these recommendations for some fun winter activities and drinks can help cheer you up.

Sledding may have been something people did as kids but getting older shouldn’t stop someone from enjoying this fun winter activity. One location known for sledding, snowboarding and skiing is no further than 40 minutes away at 1401 W Lake Street in Bartlett, IL. Villa Olivia offers tube, ski and snowboard rentals, as well as lessons. They also have a ski cafe to visit for some warm food after any long day outside on the snowy slopes. Another great location exclusive to sledding and tubing is Blackwell Forest Preserve. Blackwell is located off of Butterfield Road in Warrenville, IL. You can rent rubber inner tube for 5$ or a nylon tube for 7$. They have a very large hill to fit sleds of all sizes.

Both places are sure to provide a fun day with friends or family.

After spending a day outside in the chilly winter air, it’s probably a good idea to indulge in some hot chocolate. One hotspot for anything chocolate is Le Chocolat

December 2017

Du Bouchard located in Downtown Naperville at 127 Washington Street. Not only do they offer classic hot chocolate, but they also have flavors from toasted marshmallow and Belgian white chocolate. Their signature hot chocolate hazelnut includes a blend of cocoa and European hazelnut chocolate spread topped with whipped cream and hazelnuts. They also serve chocolate butterscotch cocoa which has rich butterscotch mixed into Belgian hot chocolate. They gourmet hot chocolates are all delicious yet can be on the pricier side. For a more inexpensive hot cocoa alternative, consider going to The Craftsman just down the street at 16 West Jefferson Avenue. Not only do they sell classic hot chocolate, but they also sell seasonal drinks such as their eggnog and peppermint lattes. Both places are perfect for some hot wintery drinks.

Another popular activity during winter is visiting the best decorated houses to marvel at the light displays. One of the best houses to visit is 3111 Wolfe Court. This house has a light show that not only go along to Christmas songs but popular songs like the Minions Song and Gangnam Style. Viewers can easily tune into 88.5 FM on the radio. This house is so popular that even the Naperville

This house on 2612 Wild Timothy Road displays lights every year. Visit them and tune into 106.9 fm to watch the show. Photo Courtey of Emma Wightkin

trolley tours pass by to see the amazing lights. People can even go to napervillelightshow.com to vote for songs and see the list of songs playing each night.

A second amazing house to go see is on 2612 Wild Timothy Road. This house plays Christmas music from the station 106.9 FM. It is beautiful, more classic, lights are sure to impress. The focal point of the show is a large tree made of rain-

bow Christmas lights that flash perfectly to the beat of the songs. Both houses are great for watching with friends or even alone and are sure to the highlight of anyone’s night.

Hopefully these recommendations can help you all brace these long, cold months and remember to stay warm this winter!

WINTER WALK AND TALKS

Profiles 9

What is your favorite candy cane flavor?

“Jelly Belly”- Peyton Metry, 11

“Original because I like to keep it classy.”- Hannah Cordes, 12

“The one with green stripes”- Samuel You, 11

“Sweet Tart.”- Maleah Randick, 10

How did you find out Santa isn’t real

“I walked in on my parents at 2 AM wrapping presents and putting them under the tree when I was 9.”- Devon Cabrere, 10

“Someone from school told me that Santa wasn’t real but I didn’t believe that my parents would wake up that early until a year after when they told me themselves.”- Carly Friedman, 10

“I found my letter to Santa in my mom’s bedroom because the cards had the same designs.”- Sean Manligod, 12

“My family never believed in Santa when I grew up.”Madame Nemeth, French Teacher

What is the worst gift you have ever received?

“Socks that were too small.”- Jason Benjamin, 11

“Used popcorn bowl.”- Amanda Bolen, 12

“School books.”- Jordan Brow, 10

“Sweater from my grandma.”- Jeremiah Robertson, 10

December 2017

10 Entertainment

Sia singing her way into the Neil Patrick Harchristmas season ris’ magical novel Rianna Panergalin Staff Writer

Christmas music is one of those staple items that makes the holiday season so festive. As we all know, Michael Bublé and Mariah Carey are the rulers of all Christmas music but with Sia’s new album, that might change.

Her 10 song album “Everyday is Christmas,” has both cheery yet ‘dark’ pop music. According to Amazon Music, “Everyday is Christmas” has a 4.4 out of 5 stars reviews since the November 17th release.

Maddie Ziegler posing for the front of Sia’s album. Debuting in Sia’s Elastic Heart video, she has been her companion during all of her shows and tours.

Photo Courtesy of The Post Athens

One of the songs that Sia features is “Santa’s Coming For Us,” which has become a mainstream hit. Looking at the title it seems like Santa is hunting you, but when listening to the song it’s an upbeat jazz jam that really set the whole tone for the whole album. You can see why artists like Rihanna and Beyoncé reached out to Sia to write their music because of songs like this. Sia also released an music video for this song on November 22nd, setting a 50’s classic Christmas movie with actresses and actors like Kristen Bell and husband Dax Shepard. The video also features Stranger Things’ Caleb Mclaughlin and IT, Wyatt Oleff and Sophia Lillis.

Sia also features ‘Candy Cane Lane’ and ‘Everyday is Christmas’ which I think is the album’s key pieces. ‘Candy Cane Lane’ is a very cheerful song, almost similar to the Christmas classic ‘Here Comes Santa Claus’ but with that modern flare. Although it isn’t as iconic as ‘Last Christmas’ by Wham! or ‘Santa Baby’, I believe that it’s one of those songs that will be known as a 2017 Christmas pop essential. But ‘Everyday Christmas’

is more of that pop vibe rather than a upbeat cheerful song. It really does deserve to be the title name and song for the whole album. It changes the way artists should write Christmas music.

I personally think that the album is amazing but very conflicting between different genres.

Each song is very different from others. Some having a very stereotypical Christmas vibe, some having a pop persona, and others having that dark ‘Cheap Thrills’ energy that Sia is known for. But for someone who is used to the holly jolly music atmosphere it felt a little uncomfortable to be introduced to such a variation of music. But if you give it a few listens and open yourself to venture out more of the album, you’ll get used to it and listen to it the way Sia wanted it to be.

Last Christmas was Ariana Grande’s and Pentatonix’s year for classic winter hits but Sia has surely raised the bar now with her music. No Doubt singer, Gwen Stefani, has released a Christmas album as well this month but I personally think that it doesn’t hit the same originality in songs like Sia has composed. Listen now to the ‘Everyday is Christmas’ album and add some of her songs to your year round Christmas playlist.

All time favorite Christmas movies Anika Haridas Staff Writer

“Elf ” It is inevitable that “Elf ” is at top of the list when it comes to classic Christmas movies. This film contains humor, heart, and much more. The story starts with Buddy, who was accidentally transported to the North Pole as a toddler and raised to adulthood among Santa’s elves.

Unable to shake the feeling that he doesn’t fit in, the adult Buddy travels to New York, in full elf uniform, in search of his real father, who is Walter Hobbs, a cynical businessman. After a DNA test proves this, Walter reluctantly attempts to start a relationship with the childlike Buddy with increasingly chaotic results.

Will Ferrell adds the comedy to a completely original story which will guarantee laughs for the entire family.

“The Nightmare Before Christmas” The film follows the misadventures of Jack Skellington, Halloween Town’s beloved pumpkin king, who has become bored with the same annual routine of frightening people in the “real world.” When Jack accidentally stumbles on Christmastown, all bright colors and warm spirits, he gets a new lease on life -- he plots to bring Christmas under his control by kidnapping Santa Claus and taking over the role.

But Jack soon discovers even

the best-laid plans of mice and skeleton men can go seriously awry. Although this movie contains some “horror” aspects, it is an all time favorite for every age. The movie’s animation was ahead of its time as the movie was produced in 1993. It is obviously adored with a 95% rating on Rotten Tomatoes and a five out of five rating on Common Sense Media.

“The Grinch Who Stole Christmas” This movie starts in Whoville when the reclusive green Grinch decides to ruin Christmas for the cheery citizens of the town. This is the outcome of the Grinch’s tough childhood, which was filled with jokes about his appearance. Coming down from his house up in the mountains, the Grinch sneaks into town to swipe everything holiday related from the residents, sabotaging their Christmas cheer. Although the film is very pessimistic in the beginning, its overall lessons are something kids can hold onto.

The Grinch needs to learn to let go his issues of the past and let others be happy, even if his situations weren’t similar to the average person.

“The Polar Express” This film is an inspiring adventure based on the beloved children’s book by Chris Van Allsburg. In the movie, a young boy takes an extraordinary train ride to the North Pole and embarks

December 2017

on a journey of self-discovery.

His journey shows him that the wonder of life never fades for those who believe. He obtains a bell from Santa’s sled that only kids who believe will be able to hear. This bell symbolizes the belief of the impossible. This movie, although having lifelike animations that are somewhat creepy, showcase aspects of Christmas that are usually overlooked. Critic Ian Nathan from Empire commented, “For all the fairy-lit wonder, some will rail at the idea of Back To The Future’s director dabbling with such a schmaltzy tale. Cynics will sneeze in shock; children will cuddle up and dream along”, showing how adored this film is by every person of every age.

This movie is very well produced and detailed when it comes to the music which was composed

by Alan Silvestri.

“Home Alone” The story begins when 8 year old Kevin acts out the night before his family trip to Paris, so his mother punishes him by making him sleep in the attic. After his family mistakenly leaves the airport without Kevin, he wakes up to his empty house and then encounters two thieves. He figures out ways to outsmart the men who are trying to rob him of his childhood. This movie is not only hilarious because of the violence towards the criminals, but because of the ending that brings joy to all our hearts. Kevin learns the true meaning of Christmas which is appreciating your family.

Ella Estopare Staff Writer

Acclaimed actor, Tony Award winner, host, comedian, singer, and father, Neil Patrick Harris’ list of accomplishments doesn’t seem to end. Although Harris has written in the past, his new book, “The Magic Misfits,” highlights another one of his titles that may come to a surprise to many: magician. Stopping in Naperville Dec. 8th on “The Magic Misfits” debut tour, Harris shares the enchanting details of his magical new book with us.

As a former president of The Academy of Magical Arts, Harris is an experienced and talented magician. He acquired the interest in magic and illusion when he was a young child, fascinated with the wonder that came from simple tricks. It was this curiosity in his childhood that sparked the idea for “The Magic Misfits” to be born. Harris felt that modern magic books that were “tailored” to children were not adequate in that they failed to provide kids with simple tricks that they would be able to perform on their own. Weaving in simple magic tricks that kids could easily perform into his novel, Harris’ hoped to nourish his audience’s interest in the magical arts while also helping them develop literary skills.

Released on Nov. 12, “The Magic Misfits” hit the best seller’s list in a heartbeat, acclaimed for its immersive story and relatable characters, Harris’ first installment of “The Magic Misfits” follows the encounters of a young magician, Carter, who has run away. Along his path,

he meets a group of street magicians who possess mastery in a speciality of magic. With the help of his new friends, Carter must use his skills to stop crooks from stealing from his hometown.

The book holds much potential, providing young magicians with “real life magic that they can see,” said Harris (during the book talk). It engulfs the child in a world filled with wonder and adventure, action and also miracles. Harris has alluded that there will be four books in the series, the next one coming out in 2018, and we’re looking forward to seeing where “The Magic Misfits” will take us next.

Neil Patrick Harris’s children book “The Magic Misfits”, making it way into children’s hearts. Photo courtesy of Hachette Book Group

Best Christmas songs for every genre

Advertisements 11

December 2017

12 Focus

Be attentive and watch for ice, other vehicles and children playing in the snow.

Don’t use your phone while driving. Phones increase your chance of a collision by nearly 400% because they distract you.

Always wear your seatbelt and use your turn signals.

Drive slower. Give yourself time to maneuver by driving slowly. Leave a few minutes earlier for school so you’re not rushing.

Increase the following distance between you and other vehicles so you have time to slow down.

Never drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Use an ice scraper to clear your windshield of ice and snow before driving.

Never warm up a vehicle in an enclosed area, such as a garage.

Make sure your headlights, taillights, hazards, turn signals, brake lights and back-up lights are operating properly.

Make certain your tires are properly inflated and that they are the appropriate type to provide the best traction during winter.

December 2017

Do not use cruise control when driving on any slippery surface.