November 2017

Sports: See Neuqua’s Varsity Boy’s Hockey team and their season so far.

Page 4

Student Life: Learn about the new beauty store downtown Naperville, Blue Mercury.

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Entertainment: See the hottest video game releases from the month of November.

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The Echo

» Read more: Learn all about adoption in honor of National Adoption Awareness Month. Read more on page 6

Neuqua Valley’s Student Newspaper

November 30, 2017 Volume 20 Issue 3

Neuqua Valley High School

2360 95th St. Naperville, IL 60564

Service dog finally receives recognition

Debbie Mossburg, executive director of the Bike Bald nonprofit in Naperville, runs with her dog Mina during the Naperville Half Marathon on Sunday. Photo courtesy of Naperville Sun

Katya Brovkovych News Editor

On Oct. 28, the Healthy Driven Naperville Half-Marathon participants were crossing the finish line. One of the participants was Mina, a German shepherd, who participated for the third time as a mascot for Bike Bald, a Naperville-based organization for kids and families coping with childhood cancer or other illnesses.

As a third time runner, the dog was eligible for a legacy medal,

but race co-director Craig Bixler said medals are for people, not animals. “If we just handed out medals, it wouldn’t be fair to our registered runners,” Bixler stated. When the issue was taken to social media and got widespread support, race officials decided to award Mina a certificate recognizing the dog’s service but not a legacy medal. Naperville Mayor Steve Chirico thinks it’s not enough and doesn’t see the harm of awarding Mina a legacy medal. “It doesn’t make sense

to me,” Chirico said. “No one is going to lose a medal because of a dog.” Many Neuqua students support awarding the medal to Mina. “While I can understand why Mina shouldn’t get a medal, I feel that it’s less for her and more for what she represents...

Mina represents hope and is a symbol that will continually be there for others,” stated Neuqua junior Josh Kim. Throughout history, many dogs were recognized for their exceptional services for people.

One of them is Brutus, a K-9 dog that won the Congressional Medal of Honor in 2008 from its tour in Iraq where it freed five soldiers from captivity. Another is Hachikō, an Akita that is remembered for its remarkable loyalty to its owner. In 1934, a bronze statue was erected at Shibuya Station in Japan in Hachikō’s honor. Another famous dog, known from a Universal Pictures animated movie, is Balto. Balto’s bronze statue can be found in Central Park in New York City to honor it for saving children from a serious diphtheria outbreak in Nome, Alaska.

For many owners, dogs are way more than just pets. Dogs are best friends, companions, saviors, guides and more.

Echo Eats Quiubo: A new spot for Spanish tapas Sana Khadilkar Entertainment Editor

The modern designs and lively atmosphere pop out of Quiubo when first walking in. The restaurant is filled with people talking and enjoying food, most sharing family style. The space is edged with abstract patterns, contrasting the gray charcoal walls with bright colors of red, yellow, and blue. Near the entrance hides a flat-screen TV that plays black-and-white movies, a feature seemingly out of place yet I feel it adds charm.

As my friends and I got to our seats, the waiter asked if we had been to Quiubo before and then began a “quick” rundown of the menu, which was actually several minutes long and seemed unnecessary. We ordered the Guacamole Tradicional first, then the Flautitas and the Pollo

Pipian. The Flautitas featured fried tortillas, shredded chicken, and morita salsa while the Pollo Pipian was chicken in a mole verde sauce served with pickled onions, rice, and tortillas.

When the complementary chips and bean dip arrived, as well as the Guacamole Tradicional, the aroma of freshly fried tortilla chips and guacamole filled the table. By tasting the chips, I could tell just how fresh they were, as they had an amazing crispiness that paired perfectly with the subtle flavors of the bean dip. Although I was skeptic of a bean dip served with chips rather than salsa, Quiubo’s dip was the best I have tasted. In contrast to the chips, the guacamole was fresh and light, and the tomatillo offered a change from the typical red tomatoes used in chain Mexican restaurants.

The chicken dishes were brought to the table, and I tried the Flautitas first. Although the chicken filling must have been good, the morita salsa on top overpowered everything, cutting through the other components with a somewhat barbeque sauce taste- one I did not prefer. Morita salsa is a smoked jalapeno sauce, but each flautita was drenched in it, making it hard to taste anything else. To contrast, the Pollo Pipian was the best dish I ate at Quiubo. The combination of the chicken, rice, onions, and tortilla offered a perfect bite. Its mole verde sauce especially had a perfectly balanced flavor that worked well with the tanginess of the pickled onions.

Overall, Quiubo earns a 4/5 stars for its inviting ambiance, excellent food, and adequate service.

@NV_ECHO nvecho.com

Rupi Kaur and the evolution of feminist writers Rianna Panergalin Staff Writer

On Oct. 3, Rupi Kaur’s second book, “The Sun and Her Flowers,” was released, and fans and poetry lovers everywhere were ecstatic for her intimate and personal collection of poems. Kaur is very open with her femininity and topics that some would say are too delicate to publish.

“Her stylistic choices in her writing pulls me in a way that makes it feel like I’m Kaur herself.”

This new book was very similar to her first collection, “Milk and Honey.” Both were separated into sections each having a stage of struggle that eventually escalates into resolvement. Her pieces of writings are very confessional; I felt as though I was reading her diary.

Her stylistic choices in her writing pulls me in a way that makes

it feel like I’m Kaur herself. Her use of controversial terms and phrases evokes uneasy feelings to really make us see the true side of reality and the behaviors in our society.

“The Sun and Her Flowers” does just that. Kaur handles the importance of immigrants and how living with immigrant parents shaped her as a person. Personally, having lived with both a parent and grandparents who were immigrants, they taught me the importance of gratitude and acceptance of everyone despite their religion, race or sexual preference. Being a huge fan of Kaur’s writing, reading her second book felt as though I was watching the second season of my favorite TV show.

Kaur leaves her poetry very open ended. While reading the first section, I felt that I had missed an important part of the story, but that is what she intended. She creates every book to be a new story; although it looks the same as her previous works, it is different. I felt that she connects to me on a personal level. see more of RUPI KAUR on page 10

Quiubo has adopted a very modern interior design. They incorporated a multicolored, string-like ceiling with paitings at the end of the restaurant and behind the bar by artist Spik. The beautiful and trendy design and atmosphere sets apart Quiubo from other restaurants in the area. Photo by Emily Oh.

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.

Focus on the victims, not the abusers: Insight into the impact of sexual abuse The Echo

Editorial Board

Recent sexual assault allegations have continously swamped the media. The fact that these people have come forward demonstrates courage because many have stayed silent for decades. Despite the great progress that is being made through these brave survivors, many people are focused on the accused rather than the victims, creating a sense of helplessness and perpetuating the idea that if the guilty are not punished, our society will never change. While the perpetrators deserve consequences, that should not be the focus as soon as allegations arise.

Instead of focusing on what’s going to happen to these men and women, we as a society should focus on supporting everyone that is dealing with the after effects of sexual violence.

One in five women and one in seventy-one men will be raped at some point in their lives, according to the NSVRC. Af-

ter said sexual assault, 31% of survivors develop PTSD. This leads to symptoms such as flashbacks, panic attacks, trouble sleeping and avoiding events associated with the trauma. These side effects can impact a person’s ability to go out in crowds, concentrate in classes and be mentally present in general.

There is a stigma surrounding survivors that says that they are weak or unnecessarily promiscuous. These stereotypes are often used to blame and shame victims for their abuse. Ultimately, assault is solely the fault of the abuser. If you truly want to help a survivor, stop giving so much attention to their abuser; victims do not constantly need to be reminded of how they were hurt. Instead, punish the assailants. Take away the platform of those who wrong others. Take away their record deals, seats in the Senate or Netflix comedy specials. It is time to dismiss the voices of perpetrators and amplify the voice of survivors.

Although the increased attention given to abusers is meant to show the prog-

ress in society, this attention should be harnessed and directed towards helping the victims. The evolution of awareness of sexual abuse will be shifting the focus off of the the perpetrators and on to the well-being and support of those impacted.

Most importantly, if you or a loved one has experienced sexual abuse, know that there are resources available to give aid during this difficult time. Rainn.org includes information, access to consulting services and the number to their hotline, 800-656-HOPE. All hospitals provide sexual assault forensic exams for free.

For the best results, get an examination as quickly as possible after the time of the assault. This aids in obtaining genetic evidence that can be used in court cases.

You also have the right to have a sexual assault counselor advocate for you during exams. You may experience feelings of shame, guilt, anger or a loss of control. It is important to remember that these are natural responses that do not change the validity of the incident.

Letter to the Editor: Sophomore Emma Sherwin discusses her views on the Soda Tax Dear Editors, Americans will support anything that may lead to better health, even if it means that they will pay more money to the government. People that support the tax on soda beverages may be among those seeking better health, but they overlook the long-term consequences including personal debt, stores struggling to stay in business, and overall loss of value in the economy. With that, the soda tax should be repealed from all cities in the United States, to prevent further damage to society.

In the past few months, many major cities have experienced considerable losses in soda sales, resulting in an unfortunate drop of other key economic components. Washington Times columnist Kelly Riddell describes one of these losses as, “backlash against the bill”, when the taxed city Pittsburgh reported their first tax revenue being “only $2.3 million”, over $5 million short of its predicted profit. Even if the soda tax was accumulating money, it isn’t producing the amount that the economy needs in order to improve.

My family and I have been devoted Coke and Pepsi customers for over ten years; however, with the increased tax, we have been forced to take other, unhealthy routes, like consuming more candy, to get the sugary satisfaction soda has provided us. The tax has also forced us to make a decision to either purchase items on a tighter budget, or in nearby towns without the tax because we can’t afford to spend the money for these higher soda expenses.

Many other working American families have also greatly suffered the effects of the soda tax, they’ve undergone extreme changes that have led to quicker debt, and even unemployment, after years of service to soda companies.

Granted, the soda tax has encouraged communities to have healthier lifestyles and provided some extra money, but these benefits haven’t helped the new needs of the cities enough to change anything. Local businesses have struggled to keep their stores open, because the tax has rapidly declined customers’ interest

in soda, impacting other sales, hurting the lives of the owners of those stores.

Political columnist Toni-Anne Barry explains on Biography in Context that multiple super stores have had to make difficult cutbacks due to their decreased profits. Brown’s Super Store in Philadelphia has had such little success with their soda sales, that they have had to, “cut around 20 percent of its employees” because of the 50 percent decrease in sales (Barry). This reduction alone will cause numerous lives to be changed; the employees will have to not only find a new job to support their families, but the company itself will have to find a new way to bring back business. If they aren’t successful, then the store will have to shut down entirely.

Families around the country are suffering right now, because of a lie the government told, and this should stop. People should take a stand today to force a repeal of the soda tax, not only to help themselves, but to help other Americans regain their lives.

The Echo wants to hear from you!

CONNECT WITH US: Twitter: @NVHS_Echo Website: www.neuquame-

Corrections for the October 2017 Issue:

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

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Email: nvhsecho@gmail. com

Instagram: @nvhs_echo

-THE GOOD DOCTOR was incorrectly continued on page 8 -‘Service’ was spelled as ‘servic’ on page 2 -Forgot a beginning quote in the continued McBride honored with national award for outstanding leadership on page 3 -‘1965’ was typed as ‘196’ on page 6 -The beginnging words on page 7 were cut off.

If you could time travel, where would you go?

“2003, because I feel like I missed a lot that year” -Justin Galler Grade 10

November 2017

“Time travel to when I’m 21” “When I was born”

-Katie Brozny -Jack Kostal Grade 11 Grade 11

“1020’s”

-Athena Bielawski Grade 12

News 3

Opioids crisis becomes a health emergency Katya Brovkovych News Editor

According to the Department of Public Health, there were over 1,800 opiate related deaths in Illinois last year. Although Illinois only has one-third of the number of opiate-related deaths as West Virginia, Chicago has remained an epicenter of the opioid epidemic.

Opioids are addictive painkillers that minimize pain and increase the level of dopamine in the brain’s reward area, enforcing an intense feeling of euphoria.

Opioids in general have a calming effect, making it a commonly-prescribed medicine to treat chronic pain, serious injuries

and severe pain after surgeries Illinois governor Bruce Rauner appointed a task force to look for ways to implement the strategy that separates into three categories: prevention, treatment and recovery, and response. To prevent deaths, it recommends getting more doctors and pharmacies to use the Illinois Prescription Monitoring Program, which can let them know when patients are trying to get multiple prescriptions. To assist with recovery, there will be a greater access to “medication-assisted treatment,” which offers methadone and buprenorphine, drugs proven to help opiate addiction.

This will hopefully help the estimated 248,000 Illinois residents who need treat-

ment. Then for response, all emergency vehicles are required to carry a supply of naloxone, a medication that treats opioid overdose, and 90,000 people have been trained to administer the medication.

As of right now, Medicaid covers the cost for those who qualify, but more than half of the counties in Illinois have no “medication-assisted treatment” providers. Expanded treatment is needed in correctional facilities as well because less than one-third of prisoners who are addicted to opioids receive treatment. “We have a war on drugs’ policy that treats addicts like bad people that need to be good instead of sick people that need to be well,” says Neuqua health teacher Mr.

Brouwer. Furthermore, police officers do have access to naloxone, but not all carry it or know how to use it. Also not to be overlooked is the fact that the pharmaceutical industry and doctors over-prescribed opioids all across America. About half of the opioid overdoses in the country are due to legal drugs like Oxycontin.

The nation is taking steps in order to fight this national health emergency. “I am hopeful that this administration will be dedicated to making tough decisions regarding this topic that can help the young adults and their families that struggle daily with opioid addiction,” says Mr. Bouwer.

Release of JFK files fuels conspiracies: Fate of the old Lee Harvey Oswald with the government Nichols Library Ava Pellegrino Staff Writer

agency known to be feared due to their accuracy and efficiency. Oswald moved to the Soviet Union in 1959 and lived there for two and a half years before returning to the United States.

Then, just two months prior to JFK’s assassination, he traveled to Mexico City where he visited the Soviet embassy. Here, the newly released files reveal that he met with Valeriy Vladimirovich Kostikov, a high-ranking member of the KGB’s 13th department responsible for plotting and

carrying out international assassinations.

This evidence further supports the theory that the KGB was working with Oswald.

Despite the overwhelming evidence suggesting Lee Harvey Oswald did not act alone, there is no hard proof. The release of these files has only increased the public’s suspicion that there was something suspicious occurring. However, until more information has been released, nothing can be confirmed.

Conspiracy theorists are having a field day analyzing the thousands of files President Trump released on Oct. 26 regarding the assassination of John F. Kennedy.

However, the flood of conspiracies that have arisen over the past 50 years still have yet to be answered.

John F. Kennedy was assassinated in November of 1963 while on a political trip to Dallas, Texas. The assassin was Lee Harvey Oswald, a former U.S. Marine and known Marxist. Footage of the murder raised several conspiracy theories claiming Oswald did not act alone; ever since, millions of Americans have wondered if they will ever learn the truth.

One file in particular is generating a lot of attention: a conversation between former CIA director Richard Helms and David Belin, counsel of the Commission on CIA Activities. In the interview, Belin asks, “Is there any information involved with the assassination of President Kennedy which in any way shows that Lee Harvey Oswald was in some way a CIA agent or an agent.” The file cuts off there, which raises definite suspicion.

Because of this, people think the assassination could have been an inside job covered up by the government. Neuqua Valley senior Hannah Cordes agrees: “I think the interview is a large indicator that something about this assassination is being left out. Since this interview could have given more insight to the assassination, it’s no surprise that it ends when it started cutting into the deeper parts of it.”

Lee Harvey Oswald assassinated President John F. Kennedy in Dallas in 1963. Known as one of the Another popular theory is that Oswald most infamous events in American history, JFK’s assassination is tied to an enormous amount of conwas working with the KGB, a Soviet spy spiracy theories regarding Oswald’s true alliances. Photo courtesy of The Washington Post

Cristina Rodriguez Staff Writer

Naperville citizens have been fighting since May for the preservation of the old Nichols Library located on Washington Avenue, and their voices have been heard.

In May, the current building owner of the old Nichols Library, Dwight Avram, proposed his new plans for the library.

He wanted to knock down the old library and, in its place, build a four story structure with businesses, restaurants, and parking. Avram stated that he would incorporate some of the library’s facade in the new building. Upon hearing this, Naperville citizens were enraged.

Two Naperville citizens, Charlie Wilkins and Barbara Hower, started the fight to make the old Nichols Library a historic landmark. Having the Naperville Historic Preservation Commission make the library a historic landmark would prevent Avram from moving forward with his project. There have been many city council meetings and public hearings regarding the library over the past few months, but old Nichols Library was finally granted historic landmark status.

Neuqua Valley band teacher Emily Binder, a Naperville resident of over 30 years, agrees with most of residents of Naperville in not wanting the old library knocked down. She said, “As a member of the Naperville Municipal Band and downtown Naperville, I do not want a four story monstrosity hanging over our beautiful Central Park.”

Avram is now claiming that by making his private property a historic landmark and halting his plans for the building, his rights as a property owner are being infringed about.

Crossing the Mediterranean: an overlooked journey Emma Wightkin Staff Writer

The 1,105 mile journey across the Mediterranean Sea from Libya to Italy may not sound that dangerous, but for many it can be fatal. Both children and adults living in extreme poverty in Africa and the Middle East are immigrating to Italy in search of job opportunities. Due to their levels of poverty, their only option to get to Europe is by taking small, overcrowded, poorly operating boats across the sea.

Many have not heard about this sit-

uation because it does not get as much news coverage. Mrs. Ameling, a geography teacher at Neuqua, first heard about the situation listening to National Public Radio. When asked what she thinks about the amount of media coverage it’s getting, she said, “I don’t think that people are aware of what’s going on and I don’t think people are aware of the dire need to get across to another area for opportunity.” She also said that it’s beneficial to know about these situations because “it gives people a better perspective on life” and they can “have a different appreciation for things.”

Only about 25% of people making the journey across the Mediterranean will make it to Europe. Luckily, there are people trying to help. One organization in particular is an international aid group called Save The Children. However, many organizations have begun pulling out because it has become too expensive. Ameling said, “Migrants are more willing to make the journey because they know that they’ll probably be rescued.” This causes them to be more willing to try and make the journey if they believe they will be rescued, making these rescue missions have a counter-effect.

Ameling also said, “With the humanity factor, I wish that we could do more to help them, but realistically, I don’t know if we can do too much.” She said people can become more aware of current events like this by checking the news and watching videos to get a better perspective on a situation. Regardless of the situation’s limited media coverage, the reality of these migrants is still very real and it’s important we all try to stay knowledgeable about things that are happening outside of where we live.

November 2017

4 Sports

Varsity boys’ hockey club: Bouncing back after MVP loss Grace Huff Staff Writer

For any competitive group, losing valuable players or members can leave a devastating impact on the remaining team.

You lose not only the talent they brought forth, but the bonds they made with the others. A loss like this can throw off the entire dynamic of the team, making it very difficult to perform at the level they once could, but it takes a special team to bounce back with determination and resilience.

The boys varsity hockey club is keeping hopes high as they play through the remainder of the season. With the loss of eight varsity seniors from last year, it has been tough to rebuild the same kind of dynamic. With four wins and eleven losses so far this season, it is difficult to compare it to the superb season the boys had last year with thirty-five wins and only one loss. Though early in the season the team lost two forwards, Jack Hemmingway and Quin Farnaus, due to injuries, the players are focusing on creating their own identity as a team with the addition of nine new players.

When asked what the team is doing to strengthen the chemistry between the players, head director Bob Malone ex-

plained that “in addition to normal practices and game schedule, the varsity players are coming together and building a team vibe. This includes community services projects, team pasta dinners and an out of town tournament weekend. Also, this team had fun together choreographing, practicing and winning the Neuqua Knows It Can Dance contest for the third year in a row.” The help of team captains, Ben Granato and Jack Hemmingway, along with assistant captains Tim Guagliardo, Chuck Rutherford and Matt Tarling, should not go unnoticed along with their strong leadership this season.

The boys are working hard to endure through their adversities and rebuild the chemistry of the team on and off the ice.

With a tough season comes tough competition. The Wildcats are a part of the 14 teams that make up the IL High School Hockey League West. When asked who their most challenging competition this season is, Malone stated, “At this early point in the season, Glenbard, Wheaton West and Oak Park and River Forest are looking like highly competitive teams.”

Some of the best games are played against the local rivalries. With most of the boys growing up playing on youth club teams, the players have formed friendships with their past teammates

Senior defense player, Max Thompson, shooting a goal and keeping hopes high at this year’s Neuqua Valley varsity game against rival team Hinsdale Central High School. Photo courtesy of Marco Rovito.

that went on to play for Neuqua’s rivals.

These highly anticipated games against schools such as Metea, Naperville Central, Naperville North and most of Waubonsie are expected to be filled with energy, physicality and friendly competition.

With the strong leadership of the the captains and the resilience of the team,

it is safe to say that by the time of the league playoffs in February, the boys will have created a new identity for themselves, continuing to improve with each game and play as hard as they can.

The Greek Freak and the return of the East Madeline James Staff Writer

A month into the NBA season, a few things are certain: the Warriors are still really, really good, the Houston Rockets are a plausible threat to said superteam and there is a new power rising in the Eastern Conference- the Milwaukee Bucks.

Equipped with one of the best starting lineups across the board and arguably some of the best new uniforms, head coach Jason Kidd and team are expecting a deep post-season run.

With the return of Khris Middleton and Jabari Parker from injuries slated for this season, Milwaukee’s roster and efficiency on the court are a dramatic improvement from last season, where the team finished 42-40, and did not advance past the first round in the playoffs. Of course, the majority of the team’s recent success is a result of the flourishing of one player in particular, whose work ethic on and off the court has helped transform an organization. Giannis Antetokounmpo (that’s ah-deh-toh-KOON-boh, in case you were wondering), better known as the

Greek Freak, has been a member of the Bucks since he was drafted in 2013 out of Athens, Greece.

Within his first year in the NBA, Antetokounmpo racked up an impressive stat sheet by scoring 23 double figures in 77 games, approximately one steal and block per game and an NBA All-Rookie team nomination. Now in his fifth season in the league, he is a leader in scoring across the board and is a headliner wherever he goes. Antetokounmpo is hard to miss on the court, with a wingspan around seven feet and a towering 6’11 height. The last time Milwaukee had this great of a star leverage was during the early 1970’s when a certain center by the name of Kareem Abdul Jabbar was still in town. Antetokounmpo has made Milwaukee a basketball city once again, and has contributed to a wave of growth within the city.

Milwaukee’s news has been less than favorable in recent years, with a steady stream of violence and police protests staining the city. The Bucks’ winning streak has resulted in an increase in tourism to the Midwest city and development plans for the Bucks’ new arena has been

a major revenue builder. Team pride is something that is now quintessential to Milwaukee as well, with many Bucks jerseys being easily spotted over the city along with an overall sense of hope for the future, more positive than ever before.

As for the Greek Freak’s future in Wisconsin? Consider it more than secured.

This past summer, Antetokounmpo made his intentions clear that Milwaukee was a second home for him. On July 7, Antetokounmpo tweeted, “I got loyalty in my DNA,” followed by a deer emoji, a sign interpreted by many that he was here to stay. Not being allured by the flashy glamour of cities like Los Angeles or New York is a good sign for the organization as a whole as many small market teams struggle with maintaining their superstars, most recently seen with Kevin Durant in Oklahoma City or Gordon Hayward in Utah.

On a broader scale, the Eastern Conference, which experienced historically bad play in recent years, is also having a revival in part due to players like Antetokounmpo. In the 2013 season, the Bucks were

able to secure the eighth playoff spot in the East, despite having a 38-44 record as many teams were “trusting the process” and tanking their way to the draft in the hopes of having a winning record. The following year, LeBron James made his “Decision Part 2,” and returned home to Cleveland and the Bucks drafted Antetokounmpo, giving the East an immediate power surge. While the Western Conference prides itself on teams like Golden State, Oklahoma City and Houston, the East now boasts a revived Detroit team, the Celtics with recently-acquired point guard Kyrie Irving and of course, LeBron and the Cleveland Cavaliers. Competition in the East is now better than ever, and it is just as much a desirable trade destination as the powerhouses of the West.

As the NBA season continues, Antetokounmpo will continue to amaze audiences across the country but will never forget to remain humble and mindful of the community he has built around him in Wisconsin. The Greek Freak’s presence in the NBA far succeeds just Milwaukee, and his effect is transforming a new era with the NBA.

Anika Haridas

pects of any team sport so we put a lot of priority into that. It basically forces us to speak to one another or the drill won’t be correctly executed. This has made me a more vocal player on the court which is often an important quality in a leader,” Megan Callahan, senior, states.

Leadership is crucial for any team. Callahan is one of the team members that is considered a leader. She is someone who motivates the team in order for them to succeed. “Everyone deserves a good job or a high five when they make a good play and being that person to fill that role is the best thing. I remember when I was a freshman or sophomore I looked up to the upperclassmen, having the opportunity to be a role model for someone is very rewarding.”

Coach Williams has taught his team many important characteristics to carry through life. “He’s always said ‘it’s not just about basketball,’” adds Callahan. Coach

Williams has taught the girls important lessons that will stick with them outside of the court. “He’s shaped me to become the competitive player I am today.

Don’t over-think the simplest things. The difficult people are ultimately the easiest ones to figure out. And finally, one day the game will all be over for you, so why not push past your limits to become the greatest thing you can possibly achieve?”

It is essential for Coach Williams to teach great leadership so the girls will have something to carry out through life. They will be able to take charge of their lives with confidence. It is important for adult figures to instill this mindset in younger generations. Creating and elevating leaders drives the competition because it is easier to succeed when working as a group. The unity in the varsity girls’ basketball team is the reason they shape strong leaders.

Leadership drives varsity girls’ basketball Staff Writer

Neuqua’s varsity girls’ basketball team plays against Batavia and finishes with a 54-45 win. Photos by Anika Haridas.

November 2017

The girls’ varsity basketball team has a reputation to uphold this upcoming season. After strenuous preparation, the girls are now physically and mentally stronger.

They now have the great bond which is necessary in order to defeat their opponents. These are beneficial factors that the team has taken advantage of. They have a connection that most teams lack, and this gives them an edge on the court.

Mr. Williams, the head varsity coach, explains that the team’s method of success derives from their “focus on the journey, paying close attention to detail. If [they] do that, success will follow.”

Sectionals is quickly approaching which calls for a variety of new techniques and drills for the team. One of these techniques is communication. “Communication is one of the most important as-

Finals are approaching: No need to stress Ella Estopare Staff Writer

With December quickly approaching, Neuqua students are feeling the excitement of the holiday spirit growing as the break becomes closer. Bringing with it both holiday cheer and a long awaited vacation from school, winter break comes after something that many students at the Valley dread: first semester finals.

Weighing in at 20% of your final grade, the pressure to succeed with a passing grade couldn’t be more concentrated.

Having a heavy influence over your final GPA for the semester, finals is no joke.

But is it all that students make it out to be? Is there really hours upon hours of studying, weeks of hair-pulling stress, and sleepless nights of cramming? Audrey Provine, a junior at Neuqua Valley, believes it’s quite the opposite. Even if the good majority of the teachers at Neuqua urge students to prepare for finals early on, Audrey claims her total time spent studying is only 10 hours compared to the suggested 20. “Honestly, I spend more time stressing than studying” Audrey tells The Echo.

So are finals even less stressful than what students make it out to be? “Finals tend to be overexaggerated,” but this only helps the students that do prepare for hours to do increasingly well on the tests. Overexaggerated may be underestimating the importance Neuqua students put on finals, some would “willingly kill someone to get an ‘A.’” What do students do to get rid of this stress? They “complain to other people,” Audrey explains to The Echo. No wonder finals gets such a bad rap! Complaints about the tests spread about the student body like wildfire, creating the facade that finals are absolutely awful, despite the fact that even securing a good grade would only boost your grade by 2%. Relax, Wildcats, you’ll be alright.

Opinions 5

Indigenous People’s Day celebrates Native American culture Adrian Lindell Staff Writer

Every year on Columbus Day and Thanksgiving, Native Americans and other people call for the creation of a new holiday to celebrate the history and culture of Native Americans.

In 1992, Indigenous People’s Day was proposed in opposition to Columbus Day to honor Native Americans instead of Christopher Columbus. Currently, Indigenous People’s Day is recognized instead of Columbus Day in Minnesota, Vermont, Alaska, and various cities across the United States; one town in New York recognizes both holidays. Indigenous People’s Day should be established as a national holiday to recognize and commemorate Native American history and culture.

Some people argue that Thanksgiving should serve as a reminder of the conflict between Native Americans and the Europeans, but to preserve the significance of Thanksgiving, a separate holiday should be established that focuses solely on Native American history and culture.

Thanksgiving is a reminder of the moment of peace between the settlers and

Native American protesters organize a National Day of Mourning every Thanksgiving to remind people of the violent conflicts between Native Americans and settlers. Photo courtesy of Native News Online.

Native Americans, which is important because of their long history of conflict.

However, since there is minimal education about indigenous people in schools, students may be mislead into believing that there was no conflict between the Europeans and the Native Americans.

By creating this holiday, schools will be

encouraged to promote education about Native American history. Americans will be more knowledgeable about indigenous Americans. Indigenous People’s Day should be established as a new national holiday to celebrate Native American culture and history.

The lessons we learn from sexism in Hollywood Sofia Mayhew Staff Writer

In light of the recent allegations of sexual assault against film director Harvey Weinstein, many big name actresses, such as Gwyneth Paltrow and Angelina Jolie, have come out and confirmed these accusations along with many small name actresses. Weinstein was accused of using his influential role in the Hollywood film industry to take advantage of young actresses by taking advantage their naivety, inexperience and He exploited them by offering roles in movies for sexual favors, falsely telling them this is “how the industry works” and leading them to believe their careers would be tarnished if they didn’t comply to his demands or if they told anyone about his advances.

Weinstein is preying on the weak. He is targeting doe-eyed, ambitious young girls and takes advantage of their inexperience. Weinstein knows they know little about the film industry, and he makes his advances knowing one of the girls just might be ambitious enough to take him up his offer.

It is extremely scary to imagine that in a couple of years I might be presented with the same dilemma. I might be asked the same question Weinstein asked all those young, vulnerable actresses: Are your dreams worth your self-respect?

Women are worth so much more that ultimatum. The value of women in the work force is diminished and lessened when men offer women for jobs for any other reason then skill or potential. Our skills and artsy are worth so much more than sexual favors. Women should be

judged by expertise or work ethic and be rewarded jobs according to those standards. The contributions women make to the workforce are way too important to be given up just because a woman refuses to participate in a sexual act. Imagine if a man had intimidate Jane Austen or Rosalind Franklin. If such women who had been responsible for cornerstone achievements had been forced to compromise their careers for their dignity, who instead would’ve made the literary or scientific achievements they had?

Women shouldn’t be presented with an ultimatum. Bottom line. If we wish to move forward, women must continue to their work at high value, and men must stop trying to lessen the value of it. A big feat, but one we must accomplish for not only the sake of women, but for the sake of our society as a whole.

The overlooked advantages of Illinois PE Sofia Mayhew Staff Writer

Students, you should be thanking Illinois for forcing you to move for 40 minutes a day.

This summer, after a two-year budget stalemate, Governor Bruce Rauner introduced a bill for education funding that includes allocations for physical education.

These funds allow Illinois to continue to be one of only six states that requires students to take physical education in every grade level.

Most of us hate it - changing into the same t-shirt and shorts every day that probably don’t get swapped out until the end of the semester and forcing your body to move uncomfortably while your peers watch, but I promise every second of those forty awkward minutes is worth it in the long-run.

I cannot begin to verbally express to you the immense value of physical education and exercise in general. Exercise is not only good for your body as it improves physique and energy levels, but

it is amazing for your mind: it promotes deeper sleep, develops sharper memory, improves deep thinking and increases blood flow to the brain which will no doubt help students academically and on

cation is that it builds mental toughness.

Mental toughness is that ability to persevere through challenges and cope with stress well. Having mental toughness will help students deal with stress not only

Illinois Gov. Bruce Rauner signing an education funding bill, surrounded by students, at Ebeling Elementary School on Aug. 31, 2017. Photo Courtesy of Chicago Tribune.

standardized tests such as the ACT and SAT. Along with the benefits above, one of the biggest advantages of physical edu-

in their school life, but in their personal life too. Students will be much more equipped in the future to deal with rejection at work, falling-outs with friends or

partners and the stress of transitioning to adulthood. Physical exercise also reduces depression, anxiety and stress, which can only be beneficial.

The mental advantages of exercise are essential for students in this day and age.

We are constantly surrounded by stressors, whether it be from school, parents, friends or social media, and it doesn’t seem likely to get any less stressful in the future. If we expect students to cope with stress and if we want them to thrive in school, then we must be teaching our students ways to build up their mental toughness and deal with stress.

Beyond school, the value of learning mental toughness is crucial if we want to build a strong generation going forward.

Our current world is just too fast paced and taxing; as we enter the workforce, we simply will not survive unless we teach students how to reduce stress now.

Mental toughness is an extremely valuable skill that is seldom taught anywhere other than through physical education.

Next time you head to gym class, try feeling a little bit of gratitude; you’ll be less stressed in the long run.

November 2017

6 Feature

finding hope, b In light of national adoption month, The Echo explores the adoption process and

Every child counts

Major Adoption Expenses

COMMENTARY

Emeli Brewer

Adoption agency application & program fees

Sports Editor

Every child craves and deserves love, acceptance, care, justice and a home. While this seems like an obvious node, it is far from the truth of the beliefs our country holds that are reflected by the current state of children living a life that is barren from these crucial influencers. Some children await for their parents’ parental rights to be returned. Even in this contemporary era, according to American Adoptions, “about 100,000 of the 400,000 currently in the system are waiting to be adopted.” Shining a light of awareness on adoption is what starts rolling the snowball. More and more problems arise within the system as it is looked at more closely.

There are an estimated one to two million couples and individuals that are seeking to adopt. There are three central forms of domestic adoption: foster care, a private adoption where the child is an infant or the adoptive parents are relatives or step-parents. To debunk a common misconception, once a child is adopted, they are legally recognized to be a part of their adoptive family, not the biological family.

There are cases in which individuals and couples decide to continue a pregnancy, however, they do not wish to raise the child themselves. In 2014, the abortion to adoption ratio was 149 to one, based on a Planned Parenthood report.

With the adoption system and process comes a great emotional toll. When prospective adoptive parents are matched with a child or an expectant mother, they are not guaranteed to bring that child home. The majority of prospective parents wait for one to 12 months to be matches. Hopes are lifted sky high, but they can crash in an instant. Some couples and individuals have found it nearly impossible to be matched domestically and later turn to international adoption.

When a woman with an unplanned pregnancy is deciding how to continue, there are an overwhelming amount of factors that come into play. Will she be comfortable with her child being parented by someone else? Will she be supported by her community if the pregnancy is continued? What will costs be? How will she cope? All of these and more are major questions that must be answered.

Each case of adoption is unique. Adoption provides a new life for all parties involved.

A life of fulfillment, love, and freedom.

Attorney fees Birth mother expenses Travel expenses Home study and adoption consultant fees Other expenses

The laws and processes of domestic adoption.

The legal steps for most domestic adoptions begin with the Termination of Parental Rights, which is when a judge decrees that the birth parents have no legal parental rights and that the child is legally available for adoption. Then a home study is conducted, which is an investigation of the adoptive family to see if they are able to raise a child. Then the family must apply for an adoption petition and get a hearing with a court. If the judge decides adoption is best for the child, then the judge will finalize the adoption. Lastly, the adoption decree will be issued. The process for intercountry adoption varies as each country has its own legal processes.

The Welch Family Emeli Brewer Sports Editor

A beautiful example of adoption is the story of the Welch family. John and Leann Welch adopted their son John three days after he was born. Their adoption was open, meaning they have had contact with the birth parents before and even after the birth of the child. Currently 55% of private, domestic adoptions are open. Before their son was born, John and Leann journeyed through an adoption agency and were interviewed for their eligibility to adopt. About two years after John was born, John and Leann gave birth to their daughter Kelly who is now a senior at Neuqua Valley.

Kelly shared that her and John “make jokes out of everything and mess around” and their family shares the same stupid, crude humor. “[Adoption] is not something that is crazy or weird. It is a really good option for people, especially for those that can’t have kids or don’t want to have kids. It’s just like living with any other family, it’s not any different.”

The Welch family enjoys traveling together, one trip in particular, a winter vacation to Costa Rica, came to mind for Kelly. “Everyday we would walk down into town and eat breakfast at the same place,” she explains. This simple story speaks volume, no matter where or what the activity, a family shares a bond where silence is not uncomfortable and meals are not about the food, but the people sitting at the table. Adoption provides a life that emits beauty for thousands of families across the US.

November 2017

Feature 7

building families captures the stories of families that have journeyed through the adoption process.

An Interview with Lauren Austin Interview Conducted By Sana Khadilkar

How old were you when you were adopted?

“I was 14 months. I don’t remember a lot but I remember some of what my parents have told me about it.”

What did your parents tell you about your adoption?

“They just told me the fun stuff. Like how when they went [to China,] it was like a complete change to their lives and it was really cool for them. It was more about how when they were there, they spent the first two days there touring China. And then they went to the place where you get your kid, but there was- I think there was about twelve of us in that group or something, like eight to twelve because they all travel in a group.

So they went there and I was brought to them by one of the caregivers and apparently I didn’t stop crying for about seven hours.”

How did the process work when your parents adopted you?

“They actually started in 1999, because I’m born in 2000, so they started I think about a year before where they had to fill out an application and they had to send it in. And then they had to resend the application because they changed their address. It’s a lot of sending in stuff and then waiting a long time. And then getting an answer and then waiting some more to figure out who the kid is, who you’re matched with. You’re given a picture of what the child you’re adopting looks like.”

How does the cultural dynamic in your family work?

“My sister and I were pretty much raised with a Czechoslovakian background because my mom is Czechoslovakian. Her whole family is. So they tried to keep some of our culture in there so we went to Chinese school, we learned Chinese, we celebrate Chinese New Year and the Moon Festival. But it’s not that big of a part of our everyday life because we celebrate Christmas and all the American holidays. I would say we’re more white than we are Asian. We don’t really have that much tied back to our culture other than, you know, the language and celebrate the holidays. But it’s not like a big thing where we get taken out of school to celebrate this. It’s not like we go to these huge parties or anything. It’s more intimate like just our family and family friends who also are Chinese. We have these family friends who are Chinese and so when my parents adopted me, they met them through my church, and so they’ve kinda taken us- my sister and I- under their wing. So they taught us more about our culture and stuff. It’s nice because then we learn stuff from them and we also learn stuff from our parents.”

Why did your parents decide to adopt?

“They couldn’t conceive children on their own and they wanted kids.”

When did you know that you were adopted?

“I’ve known all my life. It was no secret. We’re really open about it too. Like I joke around and I’m like, ‘Oh it’s a good thing I’m adopted because then I can say they’re not my parents’ and joke around like that. I actually sometimes forget that people don’t know I’m adopted. So then they’ll meet my parents or I’ll just casually drop the hint that my parents are white and they’re like, ‘Wait, what.’ And I’m like ‘Oh, right I haven’t told you yet.’ It’s super casual.”

Is there anything you’d like to say about adoption in general?

“It’s just really cool because it gives the kid a second chance and then you get to have a new member of your family so I like it.”

An Interview with Mrs. Ryder Interview Conducted By Sana Khadilkar

When did you decide to adopt a child?

“First my husband and I were trying to have our own child naturally, but I got married fairly late in life, and it became quickly apparent that it wasn’t going to be possible. So we went through fertility treatment for a couple years and then we finally decided it’s not going to happen. My husband was gung-ho about the idea of adoption before I was, to be honest. I still wanted to try naturally, but in the end that’s not what the plan was.

It was actually kind of cute because one day at dinner my daughter asked me, ‘Did you want to have your own kids, mom?’ And I go ‘Yeah I did but that wasn’t God’s plan.

God’s plan was different and I like his plan now.’ And she said, ‘Oh, ok.’ It was cute.”

Why did you decide to adopt from China?

“Well when we went in to start talking about adoption, they had told us that if your combined age is over 85, which it was at the time, that your chances of adopting domestically were next to nil. So they suggested immediately that you go international, and we had done some research on international adoption and China does a really good job of taking care of their kids. And we wanted to make sure we ended up with a kid that didn’t have fetal alcohol syndrome or was neglected, and China is very good about taking care of their kids in the orphanages there. Guatemala had closed down, which had been traditionally a large place for a lot of adoptions. Russia had closed down. So there were not a lot of avenues open at the time, but we knew that it was a secure system in China.”

How was the process of adoption?

“So when we started the process, it took us four and a half years. So initially we were trying for a kid that did not have a medical need, and the waiting list is still going on. So if we had not switched to special needs, we’d still be waiting today. They basically shut down their domestic, non-needy adoptions because people in China started to adopt. So a long time they weren’t adopting but then they started to, and then kids like my daughter who have a heart condition typically aren’t going to be adopted in China because China has a superstition against heart issues. Because of that superstition, the kids who have a heart condition usually end up staying in orphanages because they don’t get adopted.”

What did it feel like when you finalized the adoption?

“I can’t even tell you how excited we were. We were over the moon kind of excited. We found out that we were for sure going [to China] and then we had to wait for our Visas to come through, so it was about three to four weeks between. So we found out that the Visas were OK’d and then we could get our travel plans set up and we could set up the actual adoption. And we were like running around with our heads cut off, trying to get everything done in time because we left on December 28th to go over there. And then the day that we were going to be matched with her was January 4th. So we had literally little time in Beijing to travel before we went to Wuhan, which is where she’s from and we actually adopted her. “ Did you make multiple trips to China?

No, in China you do just one. Other countries like Guatemala make it three or four.

Russia and Ukraine typically make it three or four. But China makes it just one. So when you go there you have one week. So we recieved her on the 4th and then on the 11th, you decide, ‘Are you taking this child or not?’ 99 percent of the people say absolutely, but there’s always that chance that there’s somebody that says, ‘This is more than I can handle.’ So they may change their mind. To me, that would be a heartbreaker to do that.”

Is there anything else you would like to share about your experience?

“What an incredible blessing it is for both of us. Some people think that the kid’s lucky but I think the parents are almost luckier. So, I can’t imagine life without my daughter so to me, it’s truly a blessing. I would do everything exactly the same way, because I know that Gracie is the most perfect daughter for us. Sometimes the plan the universe has for you is far better than the one you imagined for yourself. I couldn’t feel more blessed. I just hope that one day that she can meet her birth family. It’s something that we have no idea if that will work out or not. So typically in China, they’re left with no information, so unless somebody comes forward with DNA information, the chances are not high.

Plus in China if you abandon a child, you could be held accountable for it years later. So a lot of people don’t come forward because they don’t want to be held accountable for it obviously, because that means prison. There’s so many ways to build a family, and you’ve got to do what works for your family.”

November 2017

8 Student Life

Reboot energy with sleeping apps Presley Polvere Staff Writer

A fully made peppermint cream pie - no oven required. Photo by Abigail McArthur-Self.

A pie for all seasons Abigail McArthur-Self Staff Writer

Grasshopper Pie Recipe Ingredients 1 Graham Cracker 6 oz Pie Crust* 1 Box of Keebler Grasshopper Fudge Mint Cookies* 3 Tablespoons of Hot Water 4 oz of Cream Cheese 2 Tablespoons of milk ¼ Cup of sugar 1/3 Teaspoon of Peppermint Extract However much Green Food Dye you feel is appropriate 1 8 oz Container of Cool-Whip Hershey’s Chocolate (Optional) *Gluten Free Crust Option: Mi-Del Gluten Free-Peanut Free Graham Style Pie Crust *Gluten Free Cookie Option: Goodie Girl Mint Slims Directions 1. Place 1 ½ rows of Keebler Grasshopper Fudge Mint Cookies in a freezer bag.

2. Crush them with a hammer or the flat end of a screwdriver until you have a fine powder.

3. Fill a glass container with ½ cup of hot water. Add the cookie powder to the water and mix until it forms a fudge. Do not let it cool, or it will harden!

4. Spread the fudge onto the pie crust with the back of a spoon. Be careful around the edges; they crumble easily.

5. Once the entire pie crust is covered, set the pie aside. You may not have used all the fudge sauce; that is okay. It can be eaten or used later to decorate the top.

6. Combine the cream cheese, sugar, milk, peppermint extract and green food dye in a large bowl. It must be large enough to beat without spilling and hold a container of whipped cream. (You may want to start with less food dye, as you can always add more if you want a darker color. That part is up to your preference).

DO NOT use fat-free cream cheese because the filling will be too runny.

7. Use an electric beater to mix the ingredients until uniform.

8. Add 1 ½ containers of Cool-Whip.

Mix into the cream cheese with a spoon.

If you use an electric beater for this step, the Cool-Whip will become runny and won’t set properly. (I’m speaking from personal experience.)

9. Fill the pie until the Cool-Whip is level with the sides of the pie crust.

10. This is where you can get creative - you can either leave your top plain or use chocolate, the remaining cookies and fudge sauce or green dye to decorate the top for your holiday celebrations. Some personal favorites include swirls made from fudge, chocolate shavings and fudge sauce drawings with cookie crumble.

Have fun!

11. When you’ve completed your design, put the plastic lid back on and place the pie in the fridge to set for at least two hours. It needs at least two hours in the fridge.

Sleep is a top priority for high schoolers in regards to growth and development.

However, only 15% of students are getting the recommended eight to ten hours of sleep a night. Students have irregular sleep patterns because they stay up late on weekdays and sleep in on weekends.

This irregularity impacts the quality of sleep that they are getting, but have no fear-technology has come to the rescue once again. I have found two sleep apps that can improve the quality of sleep a person gets each night.

For students that struggle with falling asleep, the Relaxing Melodies app by IPNOS may be your saving grace. The app allows you to listen to anything from relaxing white noises to your favorite songs.

You can mix the relaxing noises with your song choices or even nature sounds. The app also allows you to share your combinations with others in the Relaxing Melodies community. The app is free on iOS and Android devices.

For those of you who feel like you are waking up and still feeling tired, there is an app for you. Sleep Cycle allows you to track your sleep states in order to naturally wake you up feeling good. The app uses your built-in microphone to detect the movements you make throughout the night. From these movements, the app can detect when you are in light sleep, deep sleep and REM sleep. Tracking these states of sleep allows it to analyze how awake you are at certain times during the night. Sleep Cycle allows you to also track your sleep quality percentage when you wake up the next morning. Thirty minutes before your alarm goes off, the app finds your lightest stage of sleep in order to wake you up without much grogginess.

While you are using the app, do not place it near or under a pillow because your phone will get too warm. For the best results place your phone on a bedside table.

The Sleep Cycle app is available for free on iOS and Android devices. The use of these apps will leave you feeling better and sleeping easier just in time for final exams.

Above: The Sleep Cycle app allows you to detect your sleep states in order to have a better night’s sleep. Bottom: Relaxing Melodies. Photo courtesy of Google Play.

New beauty store opens downtown Cristina Rodriguez Staff Writer

Bluemercury, a makeup, skincare and spa store, opened on Nov. 3. The store is located on the corner of Jefferson Avenue and Main Street in Downtown Naperville where the old Starbucks stood.

Bluemercury carries many high-end makeup brands such as Hourglass, Laura Mercier, Bobbi Brown and Trish McEvoy. They also carry skincare products from Révive, Skinceuticals and Dermalogica, to harder-to-find skincare brands like Ren, Caudalie and a Bluemercury brand, M-61 Skincare.

This location offers in-store spa services which are not available at all Bluemercury locations. They offer a variety of services like microdermabrasion, facials, waxings, massages and makeup applications. Being a higher-end store, their prices are more expensive, but the excellent quality of their services balances out this factor.

There are five Bluemercury stores located throughout the Chicagoland area.

Because they are owned by Macy’s Inc., there are also some stores located in Macy’s stores. This company is thriving with a total of 124 stores nationwide.

It is a must for those who are active members in the beauty community to stop by Bluemercury to check out all of

the newest products in the ever expanding beauty industry.

Bluemercury, a makeup, skincare and spa store, opened in downtown Naperville where the old Starbucks used to be located. This prime location is across the street from other makeup and beauty stores like MAC and Sephora. Photo by Cristina Rodriguez.

Combat the listless boredom cold weather brings Ashley Liu Staff Writer

The cold weather begins to push people back indoors, keeping them encased there while the winter season drones on.

Winter break is just beyond the horizon and if you do not have any plans or you are not an avid celebrator of the holidays, you are prone to become bored and listless with your life devoid of meaning. No more waking up everyday at six or earlier for school means waking up past lunch to yet another day of doing nothing. If the impossible happens and somehow even your phone becomes uninteresting, here is a list of six activities to fill the empty void of boredom.

Movie marathon

Since it is the limbo between Halloween and Christmas, why not watch some movies to get into the Christmas spirit and/or remember back on the horrors of Halloween (i.e. “Nightmare Before Christmas”)? Warning: You may not want to leave whatever comfort you rest in for the rest of the day.

Winter cleaning

‘Tis the season to start giving. Thanksgiving is a time to be grateful so clean out your closet to give the less fortunate a turn to be thankful. Clothing that does not fit or styles that are “too last year” can be donated to one of the 15 million children in poverty. Not only does that help them, but it helps make room for the future clothes you may receive as presents.

Lay out several bags or boxes and organize the clothes by size and/or seasonal wear. Start with your closet before any drawers (make sure to get the shelves and racks above). Try scheduling to do it before your parents ask you to because that may deplete your motivation.

Decorating

Print out little Christmas hats, Santa beards, antlers or red noses to put on all the pictures in your house. It will last for at least two hours, depending on the amount of pictures you have with the extra bonus of driving your family crazy. It is easy to print out pictures of Santa hats or reindeer antlers. Cut them out neatly and grab your tape and “Christmas-ify”

family pictures.

Eat ice cream

Turn down the heat, slip into multiple layers of soft comfort and build and igloo of warmth around you while you enjoy a nice cold bowl of ice cream that won’t melt at an insanely fast speed. Couple this with the movie option and you’ve got a perfect winter day indoors.

Call some friends over

Everything is always more fun in a group and you can invite them over for any of the other things above. Play some music and have a small dance party. You do not need a special occasion to get together.

Reflect

It is a time of remembrance so bust out the old photo albums, wipe the dust off your old journal and go down memory lane. It is fun to revisit your state of mind all those years ago. Do this with your family, cringe with your friends or sit back and smile to yourself as you flip through the pages of history.

November 2017

Profiles 9

New Year, New Teachers at the Valley

As a continuation from the September issue, The Echo wanted to highlight more of the teachers that have joined Neuqua and will be leading our wildcat student body.

Nicole Sayer - Special Education Teacher

What is your favorite color?

“My favorite colors are blue and green.”

Why do you like the subject you teach?

“I love teaching special education because I love the students I work with. I enjoy witnessing these students overcome their disabilities on a daily basis, develop self-advocacy skills, and develop relationships with peers. It can be very challenging at times, but I find the most joy in motivating these to succeed to become the most independent individual possible.”

Who was your most influential teacher growing up?

“My most influential teacher growing up was Mrs. Reed, my 8th grade ELA and Social Studies teacher at Lincoln Jr. High. She pushed me to better myself, not only in academics, but as a person. She pushed me into honors classes when I didn’t think I had the potential and she was invested in my growth as an individual. She had my older brother, got to know my family, and even came to my high school graduation party. She’s definitely the type of teacher I want to be.”

What made you decide to become a teacher?

“I kind of always knew I wanted to be a teacher, but the biggest deciding factor to teach special education was when I did my teaching internship my senior year of high school with a special education teacher in our building. I went to Naperville Central HS, I’m not sure if they still have that class, but it allowed me to spend every day of my senior year teaching my peers with disabilities and I fell in love with the field.

Kaitlyn Sparkman - English Teacher

What is your favorite book?

“It’s too difficult to choose one favorite, but a few of them are The Awakening by Kate Chopin, One Hundred Years of Solitude Gabriel García Márquez, and Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë.”

What made you decide to become a teacher?

“Around the same time I was deciding what to major in, my aunt switched careers and became an English teacher. She wanted a career that she was passionate about, and she was so much more fulfilled working with students everyday than she was at her previous desk job. Her joy and excitement for this profession inspired me to pursue a career in teaching as well” What school did you teach at before coming to Neuqua?

“This is my first year teaching. Last year, I worked as a student teacher at Neuqua, and I couldn’t be happier that I am back!”

Why do you like the subject you teach?

“Reading is such an amazing way to learn more about people and the world around you. While all of the reading, writing, and speaking skills that come from English class are so important for students to learn, what I really love about literature is that it teaches us to be more empathetic, understanding, and open to people who have had vastly different life experiences than our own. The skills that are taught in English are necessary for every student to be successful in their future, but the messages we learn from literature teach us how to be better humans.”

Mr. Zawlocki - Technology and Engineering Teacher

Where did you teach before deciding to come to Neuqua?

“The first school I taught at was Limestone High School. Then, I taught at Neuqua from 2007-2010. I spent the last seven years at Gower Middle School before coming back to Neuqua. I also spend part of the day at Waubonsie.”

What made you decide to become a teacher?

“I originally went to school as a Computer Science major, but I quickly got burnt out from sitting in a lab all day. My dad is a 40+ year TEE teacher and he encouraged me to give it a try.”

Why do you like the subject you teach?

“I love teaching TEE because of the broad range of skills and the hands-on nature of the classes. Woodworking, robotics, electronics, automotive, engineering, technology, manufacturing, and design are just a few of the skills students can learn in our classes. Whether a student will attend university, trade school, community college, or go straight to work they will find value in our classes.”

What advice do you have for people deciding to become TEE teachers?

“Learn as much as you can about current technology, but don’t forget about the basics. The use and maintenance of hand tools and machines will always be a vital skill.”

What movie do you think everyone should watch?

“That’s tough. I’ll cheat and pick three: The Goonies, Uncle Buck, and The Big Lebowski.”

Ms. Melissa Troc - Special Education Teacher

Where did you teach before coming to Neuqua?

“Before coming to Neuqua, I was teaching at Old Quarry Middle School in Lemont, IL. I was there for 5 years and taught all 4 core subjects.”

“What made you decide to become a teacher?”

“I knew I wanted to be a teacher early on. When I was about 13. I used to babysit the kids in my neighborhood and loved working with kids and helping them learn. After that I went to college and it just reinforced my passion for teaching.”

What advice do you have for people deciding to become SPED teachers?

“For people who are thinking about becoming a SPED teacher I would advise them to get some experience in the field. Do some observations of teachers, or volunteer for a community event that works with kids who have special needs. It can be a lot of work, but it is a very rewarding career!”

What college did you attend?

“I went to Eastern Illinois University and am currently finishing my Master’s degree at Olivet Nazarene University. At Eastern I was very involved in different honors groups and special education activities. My best advice for college would be to get involved in groups that contribute to your career!””

Mr. Bruyn Yunk - Art Teacher

Where did you teach before coming to Neuqua?

“Algonquin Lakes Elementary School in District 300.”

What advice do you have for people deciding to become art teachers?

“Collaborate with other artists, there are so many resources out there for you to use. Experiment with all different types of mediums in your artwork and have fun with it!”

Why do you like the subject you teach?

“Art is fun and exciting. It is always changing and there is such a rich history behind it all. I love how every artist has their own style.

Also, how art can mean something different to each person who looks at it.”

Who is your favorite artist and why?

“I have a lot of favorite artists, but have always loved surrealism and the “dream like” quality the artwork has. Salvador Dali and Vladimir Kush are some of my favorite surrealist painters.”

November 2017

10 Entertainment

Hottest video game releases of November Ella Estopare Staff Writer

The Mario franchise, the Sonic games, The Mario, Sonic, and Legend of Zelda franchises are all very famous video game titles that millions of people around the world recognize immediately. Their popularity has only risen throughout the years, skyrocketing these titles into the charts that label them as the most popular video game franchises of all time. These games are fairly old, first making appearances over 20 years ago. These names haven’t faced any major competition yet, but will November’s new releases step up to the challenge? November brings tremendous promise to anxious gamers around the world and is said to carry the release dates of long-awaited video game titles for various consoles such as the PS4 and Xbox.

The newest edition to the Call of Duty franchise, “Call of Duty: WWII,” was one of the first titles to announce its official release in November. The first day of sale was Nov. 3, the first game release of the month. Unlike the previous Call of Duty games, “Call of Duty: WWII”

features new and improved graphics that are amazing critics everywhere. The 3D visual effects create a never-before-seen environment that envelops the player and creates a more realistic sense of the war zone environment. Not only are the

Set on D-Day, the player is thrust into the position of a new recruit who lands on the beaches of Normandy, fighting further into Europe to eventually enter Germany. As a first-person shooter, the game has pulled in several positive reviews and

Released earlier this month, “Call of Duty: WWII.” has already racked in several positive reviews from critics, acclaiming the game for its immersive storyline and gameplay. Photo courtesy of IGN.

graphics impressive, but the storyline and characters are reported to be more intriguing than all of the previous games.

promises to be the best Call of Duty yet.

Following only a week after “Call of Duty: WWII,” “Need for Speed: Pay-

back” was released on Nov. 10. Although the game series has been criticized for being somewhat like the infamous “Grand Theft Auto,” several critics claim that the new edition to the Need for Speed series is more intense and fulfilling than the GTA franchise. While the game is missing the vulgar elements of GTA, it provides gamers the option to customise their rides and build their way to success. The player starts off at a rookie level racer, drag racing their vehicle against other players for cash prizes and reputation in the game.

The higher the stakes, the greater the outcome. Players face the threat of being pursued by the police and losing their prized titles. A garage mechanic, which is one of the most iconic parts of the game, will allow players to build and upgrade their cars as they choose. With more car options, race tracks, and difficult obstacles, “Need for Speed: Payback” promises more thrills and excitement than the previous titles in the series.

With even more games to come this month, game developers and producers alike are anxious to release their work to the gaming world, hopeful that it will live up to the community’s high expectations.

A dedication to directors: Baz Luhrmann’s successes

Long running TV shows that must be on your queue

Arti Rathore

Ella Estopare

Staff Writer

Movies have evolved over many years; from soundless, black and white slideshows to unbelievable levels of realistic CGI. The one thing that hasn’t changed is the magic behind these pictures. Movies have a way of pulling us into another world, another reality, that acts as an escape. Movies not only allow us to experience other lives, but also let us be other people and get lost in our dreams.

Unfortunately,, we aren’t the only ones that get lost. The appreciation for everyone that works on making these fantasies come alive is constantly negated. Sure, the actors are the ones portraying the characters that captivate our hearts, but it’s the directors that really bring the projects to life.

Take Baz Luhrmann for example. This underrated director has created brilliant, Oscar-winning, films but never gets recognized for his genius. He uses techniques such as freeze frame, slow motion, distorted sounds, and a very extensive color pallet to add to his films in a narrative style.

Freeze frame can be used when the character has a thought or idea. In Baz Luhrmann’s “The Moulin Rouge,” he uses freeze frame when the main character has an idea during his voiceover. This helps us feel like it's not just a character through the imitation of human behavior. He also uses very bright colors, distorted sounds and slow motion when the main character goes to a club for the first time. This is meant to mimic first impressions of places out of our comfort zone.

The costumes and soundtrack add to the overall appeal of his creations. Clas-

RUPI KAUR CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 Talking about the objectification of women, the emotional rollercoaster of mental health and insecurities, she allowed me to be more confident in what I overcame and appreciate other women who handle issues that I haven’t personally experienced.

But Rupi Kaur isn’t the first woman

November 2017

sics like “The Moulin Rouge” and “The Great Gatsby” have been huge success because of the way they were shot.

Baz Luhrmann directs in such a way that you get pulled into the lives of the characters. At first his work comes off as eccentric and strange but the more you look into it, the more you get shocked by the symbolic cinematography. When talking to Life and Times magazine about the filming of Gatsby, Baz said that he hoped to “reveal the book.” He explained the process of staying authentic to a story but also adding an unexpected touch which explains his success.

In each of his films, including his one minute and eighty-six second short film on Chanel, exceeds a budget of 1 million dollars that is worth every penny.

He spares no attention to detail in every scene. I think that we should take a look at his work as an opportunity to open our eyes and appreciate the people behind the scenes.

Directors can end up getting pushed out of the spotlight despite their excellence. They deserve more recognition for their dedication to making us the most entertaining films possible.

This eye-catching scene from “The Great Gatsby” is an example of Luhrmann’s unlimited creativity.

Photo courtesy of Hollywood Reporter.

to come to fame while writing on female equality. Maya Angelou has also emphasized the idea of feminism during a time where women were degraded. “Pretty women wonder where my secret lies. I’m not cute or built to suit a fashion model’s size,” reads an excerpt from Angelou’s “Phenomenal Woman,” similar to Kaur’s statements how a women should not feel insecure because they don’t look like the

Staff Writer

Well-known TV shows like “Friends” and “How I Met Your Mother” that have ended years ago are long missed, but why did they ever end? With many lengthy seasons, these TV shows seemed to be doing amazingly well in the television industry, pulling in some of the highest amounts of viewers in history. For the time that these shows aired, what made them so successful, and where are their faults?

First airing March 27, 2005, “Grey’s Anatomy” hit the ground running and quickly became one of the highest-rated medical dramas on air. Following the encounters of Meredith Grey, the show tells the story of Grey and her friends throughout their journey of medical residency at Seattle Grace Medical Hospital.

As life savers and medical professionals, the gang must power through every strange obstacle that the operating room has to throw at them, even if these obstacles aren’t medicine related. The drama that the group faces in the hospital and in their personal lives only seems to intrigue viewers, drawing in the audience with extreme plot twists. The directors of the show have also done a fantastic job creating characters that are easily identified with, making the show even more engrossing. Unfortunately, some viewers have complained that the television series has done a poor job creating events that have not already been seen in earlier seasons.

Another television show that has risen in popularity throughout the years is “The Walking Dead.” Beginning as a comic and then growing into a video

women on front of magazines. Another “phenomenal woman,” Audre Lorde, also emphasizes the importance of her own culture and how being a woman should never deprive one of being powerful.

“Nothing I accept about myself can be used against me to diminish me,” Audre Lorde challenges in her book “Sister Outsider.” Similar to Kaur; they both write about how women are powerful.

game, this series has intrigued its audience with its action-filled plot and its realistic special effects. Praised for its special effects and makeup skills, “The Walking Dead” follows the lives of Rick and Carl Grimes in a zombie-infested world. The show not only is suspenseful and stressful at times, but it also does well in showing the evolution of the many characters in the Grimes’ group. It demonstrates the importance of community, bravery and courage through the many different people they will meet. Although the show can become slow at some points, it is still entertaining and addicting.

For all the paranormal lovers in the audience, TNT’s “Supernatural” should be the next TV show on your Netflix queue.

Brothers Dean and Sam Winchester witnessed the brutal murder of their mother by a mysterious demon. Shortly after the incident, their father began to raise and train them as warriors called Hunters, humans who track down and kill paranormal beings to protect the human race.

Driven by the motivation to avenge their mother, the boys set out to hunt down the demon that divided their family while fighting various other beings along the way. Bringing new concepts about creatures like angels and vampires, the TV show draws in its viewers with a continuously-developing plot that is nearly impossible to predict. Although difficult to follow at times, it’s well worth the confusion by the end of each episode.

Action or drama, suspense or comedy, these shows have proven to be successful and have been acclaimed by critics and networks alike. Currently producing new episodes, these shows are well worth your time.

These women are role models for authors, women and even men. If you have read Kaur’s previous books and want to read a piece of work that details topics that your teachers do not talk about, get your hands on “The Sun and Her Flowers.” Even if you are not a fan of poetry, Kaur will certainly change your mind.

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November 2017

12 Focus

Season of Giving Around the holdiday season, people of all ages are always more interested in giving back to their community. The Echo has compiled this list of organizations looking for students, children, and adults to all help out. It is a given that our community will have a full table this holiday season and charity and volunteering makes this a reality for even more people. The organizations listed below have created these opportunities and are always looking for volunteers.

Red Cross Because volunteers carry out 90% of the work the Red Cross does, they are always looking for people willing to spend some time helping others. Encompassing many jobs ranging from helping ill or injured service members and veterans to helping displaced families, there are always opportunities that will match what you are capable to doing.

Interact Club

Loaves and Fishes Loaves and Fishes is committed to helping those families that have hit a rough patch in their lives. They do not only hand out food to these people, but also set them up with jobs to help them get back on their feet. Volunteering times for teens are twice per week. Go to their website to fill out an application to join.

Serving around 20,000 individuals, volunteering at L&F has a direct impact on those in this community.

Sunrise Senior Living

www.nvhsinteract.org Interact is a group centered around volunteering sponsored and partly funded by the Naperville Rotary Club. During the holiday season, members and volunteers take part in a variety of events including Barnes & Noble Gift Wrapping, Santa House, Naper Lights, and the Christkindlmarket. With such a wide variety of opportunities, you are sure to find something enjoyable.

Hesed House

FMSC is a global organization that helps to feed families in third world countries that are struggling to keep themselves well nourished. Hand packing the meals, counting off the number of people you were able to help and doing it all with friendly people makes volunteering with this organization not seem like a chore.

Founded in the 1980s by a group of six churches and a community of concerned citizens, Hesed House is dedicated to helping homeless people find jobs, get treatment, and build a future. Go to the website, fill out an application, and their volunteer coordinator will contact you.

In order to be able to maintain the positive and uplifting atmosphere of this retirement home, SSL is always looking for volunteers to aid in organizing outings, helping with food service, or simply just spending time with the residents. Since it is located in downtown Naperville, the commuting time is short to this volunteering opportunity.

www.hesedhouse.org

Naperville Hu- Ronald McDonald mane Society https://www.naperhumane.org/volunteer/

Graphics by Adrian Lindell. Information compiled by Alya Khan.

November 2017

Feed My Starving Children

Focused on treating these animals and keeping them safe, the NAHS is committed to taking care of the dogs and cats at their facility. NAHS is run and operated through the dedication of their volunteers. Open to anyone 10 years or older, this is a great way to give back to the community.

www.rmhc.org There are a multitude of things to do at a Ronald McDonald House to help the families staying there. From cooking to nurturing to simply being present, there is something for everyone. In total, RMHC is supported by over 400,000 volunteers. To sign up and find out about local opportunities, go to the website and select the chapter closest to you.