Issue 5

Volume 54, Issue 5

801 West Kensington Road, Mount Prospect, Illinois 60056

Friday, December 19, 2014

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The

Prospector Axels and loops

Several students compete in figure skating and wake up at 4:30 a.m. for practice. To learn more, head to ...

10 Features Shark attack

Some movies are so bad, they’re good. To read Garrett Strother’s take on ‘Sharknado’ and more, flip to ...

CHECKMATE: A lone black knight stands amongst white knights. Prospect’s student body is only two percent black compared

to 77 percent white, and though outright bigotry is rare, subtle cases of racism still persist. (photo illustration by Cassidy Selep)

Being a black Knight

12 Entertainment Struggle to sleep

Sleep deprivation affects almost all teenagers. To learn about its effects and students who sleepwalk, flip to ...

8-9 In-Depth

By Mike Stanford

Executive News Editor When freshman Pennda Arami walks around Prospect, she knows that she makes some people uncomfortable.

It’s not her choice, but it is a simple fact of Amari’s life; she is among the two percent of students who are black at a school that has been labeled by many as “White Castle.”

“Students are exposed to black people,” said black Buffalo Grove and former Prospect English teacher Ami Relf.

“They see them in the grocery store or maybe they have another student in class, but hav-

Amidst national racial disputes, Prospect’s issues remain subtle ing to deal with people of color daily is not something that students at Prospect are fortunate to have.”

While Prospect’s black population has not had to contend with blatant acts of racism, subtle instances of bigotry still exist.

According to black freshman Mia Morris, one way racism is exemplified is through racially-based cliques.

“White people try to hang out with only white people, and black people are forced to hang

Final exam dates create coversation about change

By Jack Gabriel News Editor

Instead of enjoying last year’s winter break, sophomore Natalia Dmitruk spent it studying to preserve her borderline grades.

“I forget some things over winter break, so I need to study [to make sure I know the information],” Dmitruk said.

According to District 214 President Bill Dussling, winter break can be a great time to study for finals, but he acknowledges that it does not happen very often.

Dmitruk would rather have finals before winter break so that she can enjoy it and not study, but finals are after winter break for many reasons.

According to Dussling, December is a very busy month with concerts, plays, food drives and sports. If finals were before winter break, December would get even more crowded, which could lead to lower scores. Barrington High School dealt with this issue when they moved their finals to before break this year.

“We decided that instructional time in the classroom took a precedent over [those holiday activities],” District 220 President

Brian Battle said.

Another problem is trying to make sure that both semesters have the same number of days.

There are currently 94 days in first semester and 91 days in second semester. According to Dussling, if District 214 made the change to end first semester before winter break, the school year would have to start a few weeks earlier in August. Barrington overcame this issue by having fewer days off during the year, such as Columbus Day. If Prospect were to make the switch, sports would also have less time during the summer to prepare for their seasons.

However, there are multiple advantages to having finals after winter break. The two-week period post-vacation is a relatively free time for students — there are not a lot of concerts and plays. District 220 had a different set of priorities, which is why they ended up changing their schedule.

“One of the key elements of our plan was to get the most optimal time for learning,” Battle said. “In order to do this, we had to align the high school schedule with the holiday break.” see FINAL EXAMS, page 3

out with other [black] people,” Morris said. “There’s more acceptance [in school when you hang out with people of your own race].”

In addition to exclusion, Arami and Morris agree that others can be insensitive. One day in gym class, a boy approached Morris and made jokes about her going to KFC. Later, he sang songs typically performed by black artists in a mocking accent.

However, according to Relf, racial issues also extend to the

classroom. During her three years at Prospect, she was the school’s only black teacher, and there hasn’t been one since.

According to Relf, the lack of diversity in Prospect’s teaching staff hurts all students.

“Our society is made up of people of all different races, backgrounds and religions,” Relf said. “Not having that exposure doesn’t prepare people for how the world is.”

Principal Michelle Dowling agrees that Prospect’s lack of diversity affects the student body.

“We aren’t exposed to dif-

see RACISM, page 2

On ProspectorNow.com ...

MOVING ON: Custodian Tony Perales poses with seniors Eryk Krzyzak (left) and Alex Blethen (right) at the Dec. 12 pep assembly.

Perales has spent the last five years at Prospect and is transferring to Forest View. “Tony touches as many, if not more, lives in this building than the teachers do,” Associate Principal Scott McDermott said.

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December 19, 2014

News

prospectornow.com

Early admissions rattle students

By Grace Berry

Executive News Editor *Name changed for confidentiality Senior Jack Riley* was nervous every time he came home to check the mailbox. He awaited the decision from the Notre Dame Admissions Office.

According to U.S. News, Notre Dame’s acceptance rate is 22.3 percent, but Riley still loves the school.

“Notre Dame isn’t a school you can depend on getting into regardless of your stats or extracurriculars,” Riley said. “I probably won’t be devastated if I don’t get in, and I’m applying to 10 other schools … It’s just a shot.”

By Dec. 15, many students found out whether or not they were accepted into their early action or decision college choices. Early action and early decision college applications were due in November, so applicants anticipated their acceptance or denial letters to come around winter break.

Riley applied early action to the Universities of Notre Dame, North Carolina, Miami-Florida and Wisconsin-Madison, but Notre Dame is his top choice.

He visited Notre Dame last year and loved the school. “[Notre Dame] is a really strong community, and it’s almost like a family atmosphere because everyone’s really close with each other,” Riley said. “I liked that aspect of it.”

Riley explained he wouldn’t be crushed over winter break if he wasn’t accepted because he has back-up schools. Nevertheless, he would feel worse if he was deferred.

“I don’t want [my acceptance] to be hanging in the air,” Riley said. “It

SANTA CLAUS IS COMING TO TOWN: Seniors received letters on Dec. 15

from their early action or decision schools. Being accepted or rejected close to winter break may affect the holiday season. (photo illustration by Cassidy Selep)

would be worse to know [the school] is kind of interested in you, but they can’t accept you right away.”

Luckily, Riley was accepted to Notre Dame but isn’t sure if he will attend. He is applying to 11 other schools.

‘14 graduate Brenna Milligan was set on going to Stanford to major in computer engineering and loved the opportunities in Silicon Valley. She applied early action and was denied.

“It was a little disappointing because when you apply early, you’re putting a lot on that decision, and you really want to go [to that school],” Milligan said. “I

Infinite Campus Mobile Portal When Infinite Campus arrives, students will be able to pull out their iPhones, iPads or Android devices and access Infinite Campus through the Infinite Campus Mobile Portal. The app is free.

Its features include: - Monitoring grades - Checking attendance - Viewing school schedule - Examining cafeteria menus - Ability to easily switch from student to student for parents - Ability to post class assignments

Infinite Campus takes reins from SchoolLogic

By Mike Stanford

Executive News Editor Prospect will switch from SchoolLogic to Infinite Campus, a different student information system (SIS). Parents and students will be able to access Infinite Campus when the grade book changes systems between the fall and spring semesters.

According to Assistant Principal Luke Pavone, District 214 considered 16 different SIS’s last spring before deciding on Infinite Campus, which was the most user-friendly option for students, parents, staff members and the counseling office.

The change marks the first new SIS since the 2011-12 school year when SchoolLogic was introduced.

According to Pavone, the online grade book portion of SchoolLogic functioned well, but the counseling office ran into difficulties when creating master schedules.

Infinite Campus will allow the counseling office to interpret student performance data more quickly and efficiently, so counselors can better accomplish their jobs.

Spanish teacher Molly Klein used Infinite Campus as a teacher at Antioch Community High School before

coming to Prospect. She believes that Infinite Campus is a more intuitive program.

“The nice thing with Infinite Campus is everything is right in front of you,” Klein said. “You don’t have to go searching [for buttons].”

Klein believes that setting up grade books and entering assignments will be easier and more efficient thanks to Infinite Campus’s more user-friendly software.

In addition to being convenient, Infinite Campus provides an iOS app that allows students to check their grades on their iPad. Although Infinite Campus should be more conducive to accomplishing tasks, Pavone and the counseling office do not anticipate the system to perform flawlessly right out of the gate.

When Infinite Campus was implemented at Barrington High School three years ago, the faculty said that learning the ropes took a while, but today the school is able to use the SIS with ease.

“Like any new SIS, there’s going to be a learning curve,” Pavone said.

“There are always going to be little quirks in a program that come up, but that’s between the district and Infinite Campus to work out.”

didn’t really know where I wanted to go when I was applying [regular admission]. So when I was applying, I was just sort of waiting to see where I would get in first. I got into Duke. I went to visit, and I just absolutely loved it.”

Milligan is now thrilled to be at Duke and loves the school spirit and dedication.

Her classmate Matt McPartlin’s dream school was Notre Dame. He applied regular admission and was wait listed. He decided to go to Indiana University but was worried he wouldn’t fit in. After having been there a whole se-

mester, he now loves the school and the environment. He believes that anyone can find a school that’s a good fit.

“Make sure you have a second option that you will like and enjoy, but if you don’t get into a school, you can’t really go back and change it,” McPartlin said.

“Just accept it and find the next school where you are going to be happy.”

College and Career Counselor Diane Bourn agrees that everyone needs a backup school. She also wants students to avoid the trap of believing it’s easier to get accepted into a college when applying early action or early decision.

Early decision college plans are a binding commitment, and only eight students chose that route this year. Early action college plans are non-binding, and applicants can apply to more than one school. Private schools like Notre Dame and DePaul have this option.

More students who are highly qualified and really want to go to these schools apply early. According to Bourn, students who are admitted during early decision or early action would also be admitted during regular decision.

Milligan feels that rejection isn’t the end of the world even though it may seem like it at first.

“Keep an open mind and don’t let [the rejection] get you down,” said Milligan. “Even if you don’t get into what you think is your dream school, you’ll be fine at whatever school you go to.”

Milligan feels that rejection isn’t the end of the world even though it may seem like it at first.

“Keep an open mind and don’t let [the rejection] get you down,” said Milligan. “Even if you don’t get into what you think is your dream school, you’ll be fine at whatever school you go to.”

RACISM: Issues not only limited to city schools CONTINUED from front page

ferent races … and the richness that [different cultures] bring,” Dowling said.

According to Dowling, the school provides cultural experiences through activities like the Sociology Exchange.

In the classroom, Relf believes she needs to face books that touch on racism like “To Kill a Mockingbird” with care because she is a black teacher.

“I have to worry about every single statement I make,” Relf said. “I have to worry about my facial expressions. I have to worry about things white teachers don’t have to because there’s a double standard in this country [that marginalizes black teachers].”

While Relf has been trained to handle tough topics like race in the classroom, she felt out of place when discussions concerning race took place when she was a student. Morris agrees that discussions about race can make some black students uncomfortable.

According to Ebony Club sponsor John Meyers Jr., who is white, the discomfort stems from misconceptions.

“You have to expose people to things that are different–different people and different experiences,” Meyers said.

“The less anxiety there is about [race], the more [racism] goes away.”

Meyers believes that Prospect’s curriculum teaches a variety of viewpoints to broaden the horizons of students.

According to black security guard Al Lynch, part of the problem stems from students’ misunderstanding of racial issues exemplified in Ferguson, Missouri, and New York City. Many students distance themselves from controversies and decide that nothing similar can happen in the Northwest suburbs.

“Kids these days think that things like Ferguson and New York don’t apply to them,” Lynch said. “In [a few] years when you get out of school, those kind of things are going to hit you like a slap in the face. When you see kids that don’t look like you and have different experiences than you, you’re going to listen to them and be like, ‘Wow. We never had

Prospect Racial Composition

Asian Other 3% Black 6% 2% Hispanic 12%

White 77% Information courtesy of Illinois Report Card

that.’”

Lynch has experienced blatant racism in the suburbs. When his son, Nick, was in high school, Lynch found an $800 bike priced at $150 and bought it.

Later, Lynch got a call from Nick saying that he was in trouble on Golf Road. When Lynch arrived at the scene, a police officer explained that Nick was speeding on his new bike.

Though Nick had been riding with 11 friends, he was the only one who the officer singled out. He also was the only black child. According to Lynch, the cop questioned how a black child acquired such a nice bike. Lynch was infuriated with the cop’s bigotry.

“We live out here, black people like me, and work two jobs so our kids can have nice things,” Lynch said. “[He was] just reinforcing that whole stereotype from 20-30 years ago.”

Despite the subtle acts of racism, Meyers, Lynch, Relf and black sophomore Airrionne Sanford agree that Prospect is a safe environment.

“Everyone is safe,” Meyers said. “If they don’t feel safe and they don’t feel comfortable, then I want to know about it so I can change it.”

Sanford believes that race relations will continue to improve in the coming years despite the recent controversies.

“The people in school are a new generation,” Sanford said. “They don’t have the same old feelings [of hate].”

prospectornow.com

December 19, 2014

News

FINAL EXAMS: A question of scheduling CONTINUED from front page When Barrington’s finals were after break, more time was spent on reviewing material forgotten over break instead of learning new material. When they made the switch, teachers also had more time to prepare students for the ACT, SAT and AP tests.

According to Battle, those review days were not proving to be effective, and the district wanted to give students a stress-free break.

“We found that there were two types of students [at Barrington]. There were the students who felt stressed out because they did not study over break, and other students who were stressed out over winter break because they studied,” Battle said. “We wanted to provide students with a stress-free winter break.”

District 220 did surveys on its student population and found that 20-25 percent of their students were actually against the change in the final exam schedule. Battle speculates these students used their break effectively to study.

“I think having finals before winter break would be nice for some of the classes that I do not have to study for,” Dmitruk said.

“But it would lower my final grade for classes that I need to study for.”

A lot of schedule changes had to be made in order to compensate for moving finals prior to winter break. District 220 now has a fixed start date of Aug. 20.

Prospect’s start date can range from Aug. 19 to Aug. 24 depending on the year.

The biggest problem with district 220’s schedule is that it has one built in snow day for second semester, so if there are more, finals would be split by winter break.

According to Dussling, District 214 is always looking to change and revise its schedule when it would be beneficial. The main reason the district has not looked more into moving finals is that there has not been overwhelming support for the change.

“I think that schools [curious about changing] should keep dialogue with their community,” Battle said. “There are lots of complicated issues, but I think it is worthy of a discussion in every district.”

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Too many AP classes cause stress

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Study tips for final exams

WOE IS ME: A student stresses out while studying over holiday break for finals to maintain her grades. If exams were before winter vacation, students would lose time to study and improve their scores. According to District 214 President Bill Dussling, scheduling issues could also arise if exams were before winter break. (photo illustration by Cassidy Selep)

How do you plan on studying over holiday break?

“I am going [to study] by going through all my binders and looking at my past quizzes. If teachers gave me a study guide, then I will do that, too.”

-Junior Ariel Maret

3

“I am not going to study for finals because it is not patriotic. Do you think that our founding fathers studied for finals?”

-Senior Kyle Gilligan

“I do not plan on studying over winter break for finals because my grades are high enough, so even if I do poorly on finals, it will not affect my grades.”

-Senior Joe Hafertepe

Art show displays student talent

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4

December 19, 2014

prospectornow.com

Opinion

Staff Editorial

Finals after break cause stress It’s finally the Thursday before winter break. This day is jammed with Christmas parties, Secret Santas, last-minute chapter tests and yes, those final review packets.

There might be teachers that don’t give you them because they say they want you to “enjoy your break and relax,” but then they somehow find a way to sneak in that it would be a wise decision to study.

For years, students have complained about finals being after break. It is easy to forget the curriculum we learned throughout first semester, and it’s difficult to return and be expected to know everything for a test a week later.

District 214 president Bill Dussling mentioned that the crowded month of December would distract

students from focusing on finals if they were to be moved before break (see “Final exams create conversation about change,” front page). He added that the lack of change was to preserve the balance in the semester schedules.

However, Barrington High School, who made the change to having finals before break, easily overcame this issue by starting school roughly a week earlier.

We, the Prospector, believe finals need to be moved to before winter break in order to relieve students of some of their testing anxiety.

Losing some time to practice sports during the summer is a small price to pay for being able to alleviate the taunting need to study during a time that should be dedicated to relaxing and taking a “break.”

While students are on break, they

don’t get the option to work face-toface with a teacher on material they don’t fully understand from earlier in the year. As a result, they have to study alone, and if they can’t, they’re at a risk of studying material they think is correct but is actually wrong. This method of studying can extensively harm their grades because they don’t know any better.

When students return from break, there is a seven-day-period before the finals schedule begins. Unfortunately, students are still being taught new material during this time and have final unit tests the Friday before finals week. Even more striking is the fact that more and more classes end up having two day finas the weekend after their most recent unit test.

This is extremely intimidating and overwhelming for many students. If

finals were moved before break, students would be able to study just the material from the semester, and the next unit could be taught when they return.

Finally, due to the time dedicated to family, jobs, sports and other commitments, students sometimes can’t find the time to study even when they tried.

Dussling mentioned there is not an overwhelming support for the change.

On the other hand, we do not believe this is the case. Ask students around the school, and a majority of them mwill say it would be ideal to have finals before break.

With the amount of stress put on students during this time, it is necessary to keep them in a state of mental health and stability. Moving finals before break would help improve the lives of our students.

Garner decision shows police double-standard

It’s official. Selling loose cigarettes is Subway. a crime punishable by death.

While there were multiple contrastAt least, this is the conclusion that ing eyewitness testimonies and reports a New York grand jury came to Dec. 3 regarding Michael Brown’s assault on concerning the death of Eric Garner, Darren Wilson, the evidence seemed an unarmed black man who was killed to be more clear-cut for Eric Garner. In by a police officer last July. People took fact, a New Yorker managed to take a to the streets in multiple major cities video of the entire event on his phone, a in response to the decision, chanting video the grand jury received.

“This stops today” and Garner’s last I’m not a detective or anything. So, words before he was chocked to death, for a normal, inexperienced observer “I can’t breathe.” such as myself, all I see in the video Somebody should give is Garner being approached these protesters a break. and reprimanded by multiIn fact, the public was only ple police officers, raising given a two-week-long siesta his arms as the police start to from injustice. Similar proswarm around him, then gettests erupted after the grand ting mobbed, put in a chokejury decision regarding Mihold (which is against NYPD chael Brown’s death by poprotocol), and tackled to the lice officer Darren Wilson ground by the cops as he feeNov. 24. in Ferguson, Missoubly says, “I can’t breathe. I ri. can’t breathe.”

It doesn’t take a Sherlock However, the trained and Elai KobayashiHolmes or even a Sarah Palin qualified individuals of the Solomon to realize that these two casgrand jury must have seen es are quite similar. In both Opinion Editor something that I didn’t. instances, the victims were Maybe it was when Garunarmed. Both were black. Both were ner raised his hands. To me, this looked killed by police officers that felt threat- like the universal sign of surrender. ened to a point where he believed lethal But it was probably Garner winding up force was necessary. for a quick roundhouse kick.

But what outraged people most was Maybe it was the video itself, which that neither cop was indicted. was filmed vertically on a low quality By not indicting the officers, the camera and wasn’t in HD. The jurors’ grand juries made it clear that after poor eyes probably couldn’t adjust to months of careful deliberation, they such suboptimal film quality, and they came to the conclusion that there was mistakenly thought that Daniel Pantaabsolutely no ambiguity concerning leo, the police officer, was the one geteither situation and that there was no ting choked to death. possibility the cops were guilty of a Some of you may still be caught up crime. over the fact that I mentioned both vicWhich is pretty strange. tims were African American. WhenevAccording to the Washington Post, er discussion of these incidents comes U.S. attorneys prosecuted 162,000 feder- up, there are people, coincidentally al cases in 2010, and only 11 ended in a many of whom are privileged and Caurefusal for indictment. Law students are casian, who angrily claim that “it isn’t taught that prosecutors can indict even a race problem. It’s only so because you a ham sandwich if they really want to. make it so!”

I guess this means Eric Garner’s life Fair enough. Let’s pretend that it’s wasn’t worth as much as a snack from not about race. Let’s pretend that the

The Staff EDITORS-IN-CHIEF Ellen Siefke Kelly Schoessling MANAGING EDITOR Aungelina Dahm COPY EDITORS Caroline Binley Krzys Chwala ONLINE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Jack McDermott ONLINE MANAGING EDITOR Beth Clifford

ONLINE ASSOCIATE EDITOR-INCHIEF Lauren Miller ONLINE EXECUTIVE EDITORS Eva Schacht Mary Kate Moloney Molly Mueller ONLINE EDITOR Spencer Ball BROADCAST EDITOR Alyssa Duetsch NEWS EDITORS Grace Berry Mike Stanford Jack Gabriel Jack Ryan

INJUSTICE SYSTEM: Protesters around the country took to the streets in response to the Eric Garner grand jury decision. The decision displayed the double standard that our justice system has for police officers. (Photo courtesy of WikiCommons) the recent ProPublica report stating that black teens are 21 times more likely to be killed by cops than white teens is just a lie. Let’s just forget about the fact that in Ferguson, a town that is 63 percent African American, 92 percent of police stops and arrests are for African Americans, despite the fact that more whites carried contraband.

Regardless of whether or not race plays a factor, innocent civilians are being killed and assaulted by police officers, many of whom come off with very light punishment or absolutely no punishment at all. Whether it be a Californian cop who was only sentenced to probation and 480 hours of community service after killing two pedestrians while driving 80 miles per hour without his lights or sirens, or Johannes Mehserle, a cop who shot a 22-year-old man in the back as he lay face-down on a train platform with his hands behind him, who was sentenced to a mere seven months in prison, it’s undeniable that many police officers get away with absurdly light sentences for crimes that

OPINION EDITOR Elai Kobayashi-Solomon

Ryan Molini Peter Fusilero

FEATURES EDITORS Shreya Thakkar Flynn Geraghty Ivanka Northrop Rachel Parks

VISUALS EDITOR Cassidy Selep

IN-DEPTH EDITORS Diana Leane Shannon Smith Katy Ryan ENTERTAINMENT EDITORS Abby Sunu Isabelle Rogers Garrett Strother Marci Kiszkiel SPORTS EDITORS Devin Prasad

have put others behind bars for a lifetime.

Philip Stinson, a former police officer and researcher at Bowling Green State University, told BBC News that juries tend to “give every possible benefit of the doubt” when it comes to police officers who have killed while on-duty.

In fact, Stinson’s own research found 41 police officers were charged with murder or manslaughter between 2005 and 2011, even though the FBI had recorded several thousand homicides committed by the police in the same time period.

It doesn’t matter who you believe was right or wrong. In fact, it doesn’t really matter who was actually right or wrong. Amidst all the debate about race and contrasting testimonies, many people have overlooked the one thing that’s completely clear: there is a double standard for police officers in our justice system. But if the very people responsible for maintaining order in our society are the ones destroying it without punishment, can we really even call that justice?

PHOTOGRAPHERS Amanda Downar Gianna Honcharuk ADVISER Jason Block Mission Statement The primary purpose of the Prospect High School Prospector is to report news as well as explain its meaning and significance to our readers and the community. We, the Prospector, hope to inform, entertain and provide a school forum for the unrestricted exchange of ideas and opinions. The

Prospector is published by students in Journalistic Writing courses.

Some material is courtesy of MCT Campus High School Newspaper Service.

Advertising For ad rates, call (847) 718-5376 (ask for Aungelina Dahm), fax (847) 718-5306, e-mail or write the Prospector, 801 West Kensington Rd., Mount Prospect, IL 60056, prospectornow@gmail.com.

Letters to the Editor Drop off letters to the Prospector in the box in the library, in Rm. 216 or email letters to prospectornow@ gmail.com. All letters must be signed. Limit letters to 400 words.

The Prospector reserves the right to edit letters for style and length.

prospectornow.com

December 19, 2014

Opinion

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cartoon by Veronica Holloway

Psychotherapy for more than psychos

Diagnosing quirks misleading, wrong

*Named changed for confidentiality

My brother reminds me daily that I “have” Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), usually during the car ride to school as I adjust the music volume.

I admit that insisting the stereo volume remain at a multiple of four and at least 28 is slightly weird, but I assure you that I do not have OCD and that I will not spontaneously combust if the volume touches 37. Although such circumstances are hardly ideal, I can endure them and still function normally throughout the day, even as my brother snickers and makes fun of me.

Unfortunately, my brother is just one of many people who lack an understanding of mental disorders and resort to relying on stereotypes.

This also represents a far more concerning trend.

In recent years, the public has felt a need to diagnose and treat every personality quirk without a true understanding of the disorders in question.

This creates the very wrong sentiment that everyone has to be the same, and those who possess unique traits must have something wrong with them.

I’ve noticed examples of this ignorance the most in the context of OCD; though I am a perfectionist, my friends mistake

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have come about, yet they cannot grasp that psychotherapy is a non-psychotic way of getting help.

According to camft.org, one in three Americans do not seek psychotherapy when they need it.

It’s upsetting that this stigma prevents people from feeling comfortable enough to seek help and that people have to create an image for something that is designed to help them.

Psychotherapy has been around since the ancient Greeks, yet society still associates it with nut houses or asylums.

We need to understand that one who goes to therapy is not necessarily weak or insane. No one should refuse therapy due to fear of what others will think.

Going to psychotherapy means knowing you need help and staying healthy by not letting your fear get the best of you.

I’m not haunted by obsessions, and I won’t freak out at the sight of a messy bookshelf or locker.

Another commonly misunderstood disorder is Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD). I can’t tell you how many times my friends have said they’re “so ADD” because they couldn’t pay attention in class.

They couldn’t be further from the truth.

According to add.org, ADD is a broad term for deficit disorders, including Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD). Those afflicted have severe difficulty with focusing, listening and staying still because their brain is overactive, thus affecting them socially and academically.

Having trouble paying attention in class doesn’t mean you have ADHD. You might be tired or sick.

Maybe you don’t like the book you’re reading, or maybe you are experiencing some personal issues, such as Ellen Siefke family problems, Editor-in-Chief that are distracting you.

If you’re feeling restless, then maybe it’s the three cups of coffee you had that morning. Or maybe you’re someone who has a lot of energy — it’s hard for us tired teenagers to understand, but these people do exist.

It’s OK to have a lot of energy or struggle to focus sometimes.

Just don’t call it something it is not.

Recently, more and more misunderstandings of social anxiety disorder (SAD) have emerged. No longer can you be shy; no, you obviously have SAD. According to WebMD, social anxiety involves irrational and unreasonable fear or anxiety concerning social situations.

Those afflicted may feel anxious weeks before an event and will do almost anything to get out of social situations.

They may also fear eating or drinking in public, working in groups and even writing or reading in public.

Some people are naturally shy, myself included. I do feel nervous in social situations, but it’s not a huge deal.

I can still talk to people and hold a conversation.

More importantly, shyness is not a lifelong disease; over time, it can get better. Social anxiety only worsens without treatment.

Having more trouble socializing than others is not a sign of a disorder — it means you’re shy. That’s it.

It’s OK to have some personality quirks — that’s what makes us unique.

Instead of trying to pass them off as the result of a medical condition, we should embrace what makes everyone unique and accept people for who they are. There are some people with real problems who require a diagnosis, but we should respect that by not misinterpreting others.

udged sj

*Junior Sarah Harper went into psychotherapy, therapy for the mind, two years ago for anxiety and depression.

Though her parents signed her up for therapy, Harper did not want to attend because she believed psychotherapy was for insane patients.

However, as time went on, she began to like it since she eventually clicked with her psychotherapist and understood the true purpose of psychotherapy.

After a few months, she decided to tell a friend about it. Much like Harper’s initial reaction, her friend also had misconceptions that led to the end of their friendship. Her friend didn’t understand that she was not insane.

Harper could not save her friendship because psychotherapy is necessary for her since she does not get enough serotonin released in Jack Ryan her body.

News Editor Harper’s case is one of many examples that prove misconceptions about psychotherapy exist even though the definition does not support it.

According to school psychologist Dr. Jay Kyp-Johnson, psychotherapy is an operation on the mind similar to surgery for the brain because it helps people resolve conflicts and difficulties, like making decisions.

Despite many fallacies, psychotherapy is great for students who are seeking help. No one should be afraid of saying they are in psychotherapy at the risk of appearing insane.

People have to understand psychotherapy is for anybody.

Attending therapy means you are willing to get help.

Psychotherapy is very similar to talking to a friend or an adult. The only difference is you’re speaking with a professional about topics such as depression or anxiety.

According to a nationwide survey conducted by the Pacific Behavioral Health Organization, 59 million people in the U.S., or roughly 27 percent of the population, go to psychotherapy.

They see beyond the public’s stereotypes and realize psychotherapy is not for the insane. It is for people who need another source of help in their lives.

Harper is a typical teenager. She does activities outside of school like swimming and water polo and hangs out with friends.

According to camft.org, 22 percent of men and 11 percent of women say they are not in psychotherapy when they are.

It is wrong to deny being in therapy solely in fear of diminishing an image you want to keep.

People are open to many ideas that

Local psychotherapy offices

this stickler streak for a symptom.

According to WebMD, OCD is a severe anxiety disorder in which those afflicted are tormented by obsessions that often center around a theme, such as hygiene.

In order to deal with them, they resort to performing compulsions. For example, those obsessed with hygiene may excessively wash their hands.

What’s most significant is that these obsessions and compulsions interfere with patients’ lives.

Without performing these compulsive acts, these people often cannot function properly.

Being a perfectionist does not mean you have OCD. It means you’re a perfectionist.

Just because I like things to be even or in groups of four doesn’t mean I have an affliction.

6

December 19, 2014

prospectornow.com

Features

Out-of-hallway experience Students and teachers reflect on seeing each other outside of school

By Rachel Parks Features Editor

SELFIE: Junior Taylor Clark poses

with Math and Science Division Head Keith Bellof at Costco. (photo courtesy of Taylor Clark)

Have you ever seen a teacher in public?

“I went through the door to Sports Authority, I glance to my right, and see [social studies teacher Jonathon] Kaminsky. He looks at me, squints at me because he kind of knows me, and I squinted at him because I kind of know him. It was kind of awkward.” “[My friends and I were] at Starbucks [and] we had a day off, but teachers still had work. I saw a bunch of teachers [including Italian teacher Antonino Bondi.]

There were a bunch but we didn’t say ‘Hi’. It was a little awkward.”

“I saw [science teacher Kathleen Brej when] she came into [the gas station where I work] and bought gas, and we had a conversation. It was normal because we are good acquaintances.”

Junior Ryan Morton

Freshman Toni Martorelli

Junior Heather Pecho

This past spring at Chipotle, social studies teacher Jonathon Kaminsky was eating before a soccer game when then-freshman Jazzmyn Magallon came to his table, sat down next to him, and had junior Claire Powers take a picture of them. Kaminsky often runs into students because he lives in Arlington Heights. Although he found this situation to be awkward, most aren’t.

In fact, Spanish teacher Michael Aldworth and math teacher Pete Wintermute live in the Mount Prospect and Arlington Heights area along with Kaminsky, and they don’t find encounters with students to be awkward.

However, there are those who prefer not to encounter students outside of school. Math teacher Frank Briody, who grew up and still lives in Chicago, prefers to keep his personal and professional lives separate.

“I don’t want to grocery shop where I see students,” Briody said.

Although he finds it awkward to see students, he will say ‘hi.’ “[But] if they see you first and they [think,] ‘Oh God, I don’t want to talk to him,’ then I don’t push it,” Briody said.

However, Pete Wintermute, who lives next door to junior Janeta Yancheva, doesn’t mind seeing students outside of school nor does he mind living next to one.

According to Wintermute, he treats the Yanchevas the same way he would treat other neighbors. His children sometimes play with Yancheva’s 7-yearold sister Vicki. He speaks to Janeta’s parents when they are outside, and sometimes they talk about school.

However, Wintermute doesn’t see students outside of school that often, Janeta included, because spends a lot of time at school and coaching cross country. His wife does the majority of the shopping, which also leads to him see students less often.

According to Janeta, it was weird having Wintermute as her neighbor when he first moved to Mount Prospect her freshman year. She has never had him as a teacher, but she knew it was a possibility.

“At first, I thought it was kind of weird [to live next to him], but then I got more comfortable,” Janeta said. “We started to see each other in the back yard, and [I realized we’re] just normal neighbors.”

While Wintermute doesn’t run into students, Kaminsky runs into them at least three times a week. When he sees students outside of class, he says ‘hi,’ or they try to take a picture with him. He normally tries to avoid this because he

WHY CAN’T WE BE FRIENDS? Although junior Janeta Yancheva, who lives next to math teacher Pete Wintermute, doesn’t find living next to a teacher awkward, she acknowledges that many students may be embarrassed to see teachers outside of school. (photo illustration by Cassidy Selep) knows the photo may end up on social media.

This happened over the summer at music festival Lollapalooza when seniors Alex Blethen and Tina Payne both took pictures with Kaminsky.

He said that after the festival, on the way back to Mount Prospect, half the people on the train were Prospect students, although most of them were graduates.

However, the experience was not that bad for Kaminsky.

“Prospect students don’t really act that weird. They get this weird excited, like, ‘I’m seeing a teacher outside of school!’” Kaminsky said. “I think if I saw my teachers in high school, I would’ve shied away from them, and maybe that’s what some people do, but generally, they run up and want to take a picture with me.”

Kaminsky also sometimes has to be cautious about the way he acts or dresses because of the possibility of seeing students or parents.

Although it’s never become a problem for him, teachers always have to be careful about mentioning students by name in public places because someone’s parent could be right behind them.

Although Kaminsky used to care more about seeing stu-

dents outside of school, he no longer does. Wintermute also no longer cares because he likes the short commute to work.

“Maybe it’s the amount of stuff I go to after school here,” Kaminsky said.

“If I see a kid at 8 [p.m.] at the gym on a Friday night for basketball, [then it isn’t] that weird if I see them at 5 p.m. on Saturday at Chipotle.”

Who Knows You Better?

The subjects Senior Josh Mayer The Boyfriend

Senior Izzy Winkler

What type of phone does she have?

Shoe size?

Favorite holiday?

Height?

Favorite class?

Favorite restaraunt?

iPhone 5

6

Christmas

5’4”

Lunch

Francesca’s

4

4

4 iPhone 5

8

Christmas

5’4”

Contemporary Literature

Wildfire

iPhone 4s

8

Christmas

5’4”

Burger King

4

Contemporary Literature

4

4

4

The results

x

The Subject

Senior Bianca Campanile The Best Friend

Winner

prospectornow.com

December 19, 2014

Features

7

Students wave off waiver system Administration enforces P.E. waiver policy

By Shreya Thakkar

Executive Features Editor *Name changed for confidentiality Last year, senior Jesse Sykes often arrived late and sweaty to musical practice after biking six miles in the fitness center after school. No, it wasn’t just because Sykes wanted to get some extra exercise in. It was because he had to make up seven weeks of gym after being caught taking a P.E. waiver without being in a sport.

Sykes signed up for a second semester waiver going into his junior year, thinking that he would do boys’ swimming in the winter.

However, Sykes decided not to try out and did not notify his counselor to switch his P.E. waiver to a gym class.

According to head of the P.E. department, Assistant Principal Jovan Lazarevic, something like that only happens once or twice a year, but

when it does, it is because of a lack of communication.

“A lot of times, it’s not even that they’re trying to beat the system, but they just don’t know how to communicate,” Lazarevic said. “[Students] are 14 to 18 years old, so they’re either embarrassed or they didn’t know who to tell. I think there are some that do try to beat the system, but there are others who fail to communicate.”

On the first day of second semester, Sykes went to the first day of his P.E. waiver expecting to be kicked out.

Instead, his teacher, Carrie Black, did not say anything when he told her his name

DECISIONS, DECISIONS: Senior Jesse Sykes debates between having an undeserved P.E. waiver or going to gym class. (photo illustration by Shreya Thakkar)

and sport during attendance, so he continued on with the waiver.

However, every quarter, Career and Technology Education Division Assistant Dawn Czyzewski goes through a list of students and checks that they are in a sport or activity that qualifies for a waiver. Seven weeks into the semester, Black found out he wasn’t a part of swimming.

“I had a lot of people tell me, ‘Oh yeah! I know other people who have totally not done a sport, but they were going to do it, and so they took a waiver,’” Sykes said. “I heard a lot of people got away with it, so it’s weird that they caught me.”

Fearing he would fail gym, Sykes then talked to his counselor, Dustin Seemann, who helped him work out a system to make up his gym time with the help of Lazarevic and gym teacher Rick Di Vito. Sykes had to choose between running two miles on the treadmill, doing two and a half miles on the elliptical or riding six miles on the bike.

Ultimately, Sykes made up gym for 40 minutes, four days a week until May of his junior year and got a B in the class.

“It did kind of conflict with my other activities and [was not fun],” Sykes said. “At the end of the day though, [it wasn’t that bad].”

According to Lazarevic, students often have to switch back to gym when they get cut from a sport, too. For example, if a student signed up for a second semester gym waiver for a spring sport but then got cut, they would have to notify their counselor and transfer back to gym without penalty.

“We’re on the honor system and think in good faith that you’re going to make the team or that you’re going to try your hardest to make the team,” Lazarevic said. “So we don’t hold that against you.”

This year, junior *Kelly Simon signed up for a first semester P.E. waiver ex-

Alumni return as employees her transition into an adult role at the school. The KLC is home to resource assistant Student Services Instruc- Joan Van Eck, whom Ciesemitional Assistant and ‘04 grad- er describes as “one of the nicest and sweetuate Lauren est people at Ciesemier has a confes- Back in the motherland this school.”

When Ciesion. Despite had this year be- 14 former students now semier questions ing her secwork at Prospect such as where ond working Lauren Ciesemier, she can store at Prospect, her coat and she still does student services lunch, Van not know instructional assistant Eck was there where the Brock Collins, social studies to help. Whenstaff cafeteLisa Curtin, sociology ever she had ria is. any other “People as- Erik Hammerstrom, English questions, sume[d] that Molly Klein, Spanish she would ask since I went Scott McDermott, her fiancé, here, I knew social studies Associate Principal everything teacher Brock about Pros- Katie Page, science Collins, who pect, that I Kristen Ray, social studies was a large [didn’t need] factor in her an introduc- Jay Renaud, social science decision to tion,” Cie- Jean Rezny, physical take a job at semier said. education Prospect.

But that Dave Schnell, “I always did not hold ask him betrue. When it social science fore I embarcame to find- Paul Schoenbeck, science rass myself,” ing offices, Chris Stanford, Ciesemier locker rooms said. and other social science Ciesemirooms that Michelle Tantillo, science er’s first days students don’t at Prospect frequently were instivisit, she was lost. When it came to other rooms such as tute days, and she recalls askthe staff lounge, she didn’t ing Collins what she should do even know the purpose, asking, during her lunch, where she should go and who she should “Do we hang out there?”

Ciesemier is not alone. She go with.

Coming back to work at is one of 14 Prospect alumni who now work at their alma Prospect has been nostalgic for Ciesemier. For reasons she mater. (See “Back in the mothdoesn’t know, the Career and erland.”)

The majority of Ciesemier’s Technical Education (CTE) day is spent in the KLC, which hallway hit her when she she believes was beneficial for walked past it.

By Krzys Chwala Copy Editor

“I don’t know why. It’s not like that was a spot I was always in. It’s not like anything happened to me over there,” Ciesemier said. “I just walked by and thought, ‘This smells like high school.’”

Working at Prospect also is sentimental for ‘89 graduate Associate Principal Scott McDermott.

He clearly remembers that the theater department of his high school years was very similar to the one we have now. “[The theater] has the same chairs [and] the same awful lighting,” McDermott said.

“But there’s a special quality that you go back and think about.”

McDermott attended his 25th reunion last September, during which he and his friends recalled their high school days. When McDermott took some old friends on a tour of the school, they asked if certain rooms still belonged to certain teachers and reminisced about their classes.

Neither McDermott nor Ciesemier thinks working with former teachers is uncomfortable (see “Flashback Friday”).

However, Ciesemier admits things like walking past teachers who don’t remember her can be awkward.

In such situations, she waits to see if the teacher makes eye contact with her, and if not, she continues walking. Although these events can be awkward, she does not take them personally as she does not expect teachers to remember 10 years’ worth of students.

McDermott tries to make working with his former teachers as comfortable as possible.

He works with them as if he

pecting to do basketball in the winter.

However, Simon was cut from the varsity team in November after having already taken three months of the waiver. She then talked to her counselor who told her to finish out her waiver because there was not enough space in gym classes.

Simon was still eligible for a second semester P.E. waiver for softball, but she decided against it because she felt the system was unclear.

“I told my counselor that I’ll just take a gym class [second semester] just in case something did happen where I would have to take gym over the summer. I didn’t want that,” Simon said.

Sykes and Simon believe that the system needs to be clarified for students.

“I’m glad [that I got caught] because it was a good learning lesson,” Sykes said. “I learned that I should not have let it slip like that, and [I] should have talked to Mr. Seemann about it right away. Also, realistically, it’s good for the school to learn from what I did to say, ‘OK, we need to figure out a better way to verify that these students actually deserve to be in this study hall.’ … It’s not something bad. I did my homework.

It was beneficial, but at the same time it wasn’t what I was supposed to be doing.”

According to Lazarevic, administration has tried to be more strict with the system recently.

“It’s always been this way, but we’ve always been kind of flexible with it,” Lazarevic said. “Since more and more kids are taking waivers, we’ve had to be a little bit more strict with the rules.

Sometimes students try to take advantage of it, for example they get mom or dad to call them out. But that’s not what this is supposed to be. It’s supposed to be for students who aren’t going to be home until eight or nine o’clock at night so that they can get homework done during the day.”

Flashback Friday

Lauren Ciesemier, 2004

Student Services Instructional Assistant Lauren Ciesmier and Associate Principal Scott McDermott have returned to Prospect after graduating in 2004 and 1989 respectively.

Scott McDermott, 1989

didn’t have a superior position.

Instead, he simply asks himself how he can help the teachers most.

According to physics teacher Mark Welter, who once taught Ciesemier, working with former students is not as uncomfortable as he thinks it would be.

Welter has noticed that former students maintain similar personalities and habits — such as maturity and organization — when switching roles from student to teacher.

While working at her alma

Lauren Ciesemier, 2014

Scott McDermott, 2014

mater was awkward at first, she ultimately believes the benefits outweigh the drawbacks.

“As a student, I didn’t realize how awesome [Prospect] is,” Ciesemier said. “After interning at other schools, I made that realization. … I love working at a school that is always developing and gives me creative freedom.”

8

December 19, 2014

prospectornow.com

In-Depth

Sleeping pills risk side effects, reward restfulness

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By Diana Leane

Executive In-Depth editor *Name changed for confidentiality Junior *Sarah Jackson has two sides: one that appears healthy at school and one that can’t sleep without drugs at night. The girls she roomed with on a school trip last year saw her second side.

In the hotel room, Jackson broke down and began to see mice run across the ceiling. She imagined they were coming out of a parking garage. Though this may sound like the result of an illegal drug, her hallucination was caused by a sleeping pill called Ambien.

Jackson takes Ambien because of her daily severe migraines.

The pain keeps her up at night, and once she does fall asleep, it often wakes her up again. Sleeping pills can help people in situations similar to Jackson’s, but the pills have many negative side effects.

Doctors recommend that people with insomnia lasting at least a month or more should discuss sleep medicine with their doctors.

Jackson has been taking sleeping pills for two years. She started taking the pills after she missed 50 school days in one semester.

“I couldn’t fall asleep at night, and I couldn’t sleep through the night,” Jackson said. “I was getting only two hours of sleep, and I couldn’t go to school because I was so tired and always in so much pain. I was in the hospital a lot as well, so my doctors [said], ‘Alright, we need you to function like a regular kid.’”

Jackson’s parents discussed all the options and decided they would try sleeping pills on a trial and error basis. “[Seeing Sarah unable to sleep] was very difficult because I couldn’t do anything to help her,” *Claire Jackson, Sarah’s mom, said. “I would be taking her to this

doctor or that doctor and trying to get answers … trying to figure out why she has her headaches and why they weren’t going away.”

While melatonin, a supplement that helps the sleep process, worked for Jackson, she became tolerant to the medicine. Eventually, she reached the point where she was taking the largest dose possible, yet the supplement was no longer helping her sleep. Tolerance is one of the side effects that accompany sleep medicines.

Jackson is now somewhat tolerant to Ambien, and doctors have adjusted her prescription throughout the two years she has taken it. Some known side effects of Ambien are daytime drowsiness, dizziness and weakness.

Jackson has experienced hallucinations, daytime drowsiness and memory loss. She can’t always remember what she did during the night while on the pills. “[My side effects] are always a little different, which is scary,” Jackson said.

In addition, some nights she sleeps more than she expected, and other nights she struggles to fall asleep and stay asleep. “[The pills] have helped me sleep, but they’ve also made me really drowsy during the day,” Jackson said. “I now literally can not sleep without them, so I know they obviously are addictive.”

If Jackson goes a night without her medication, she is exhausted the next day and in more pain than usual, which the pills normally help with.

“The relief [the pills] bring to me is that [Sarah] is able to function,” Claire Jackson said. “She is able to do her schoolwork. She is able to have a social life, and [she can do] all the things teenagers do — she can drive, go places, live her life as a teenager.”

is

Bedtime stories: the sleepwalking edition

By Shannon Smith

Executive In-Depth Editor This past fall, senior Aleks Schillmoeller sleepwalked out the side door of her house, which her sister must have left unlocked. She walked two and a half blocks before she woke up to the sound of police sirens. In a state of confusion and fear, she started to cry.

Though Schillmoeller doesn’t know how, the police officer recognized that she had been sleepwalking and used the sirens to wake her up. After five minutes, Schillmoeller calmed down, and the police officer took her home.

Thereafter, Schillmoeller’s mom began to take her keys away before bed and make sure all the doors were locked.

At most, 15 percent of the general population sleepwalks, and most people grow out of it when they’re eight or nine years old, like sophomore Mary Schaffer. Schaffer was a sleepwalker in elementary school, but she is unsure if she has sleepwalked since then.

In elementary school, she

would sleepwalk about once a month. Based off of what her parents and friends have told her, she often thought she was in different places like on a rollercoaster or in a magic show.

Sleepwalking can make for an unrestful night of sleep, which can make the sleepwalker even sleepier the next day.

The best way someone can prevent sleepwalking is by budgeting their time so they can sleep a full eight hours each night.

In most cases, a sleepwalker will not respond when asked questions, or they will respond very slowly. Along with that, their eyes may be glossy, and the sleepwalker will not normally remember sleepwalking the next day.

Sleepwalking often runs in the family, but there are multiple causes. According to Web MD, some of the main causes of sleepwalking are sleep deprivation, a chaotic sleep schedule, insomnia medications and stress.

Schillmoeller was tak- ing insomnia medication for stress-induced insomnia when she left her house sleepwalking. She only wanted to be on the medication for a couple months because it caused her to lose her appetite and sleepwalk regularly. After leaving the house sleepwalking, her mom decided it was time to stop taking it.

While taking insomnia medicine, Schillmoeller would

sleepwalk two or week, but now, s walks about onc can usually tell w walks because sionally find the wore to bed som the house the ne Schillmoeller lieves her sleep from stress that c heavy course loa dance.

“Most of the t is from a combin and my pre-prof program,” Schi “[It‘s] basically time crunched a enough time to d want to do.”

Sleep deprivation warrants awar Sleep is so last year.

There’s far too much to do in a 24 hour day. I have debate, newspaper, work, AP classes and ACT preparation, and I have to work out at the gym, tolerate my little brother, stay relevant on social media, drink at least two cups of coffee, attempt to focus in class, try not to have a mental breakdown Lauren Miller and, of course, keep up with Online Associate the Kardashians. But everyEditor and Chief thing I do is SO important to me that I don’t even have time for sleep. Right? As much as I brag about my lack of sleep, I’m still the one who is exhausted every day. It’s more than just being tired at this point; it’s sleep deprivation.

We, Prospect students, are deprived in this aspect; many of us are not getting the sleep that we need.

This sleep deprivation doesn’t come without consequence. According Dr. Jane Dyonzak, who has been a sleep specialist for 20 years, every hour of sleep deprivation we have is equivalent to driving under the influence of one alcoholic drink.

Combine that with our general inexperience as drivers, and accidents are bound to occur.

Death may seem a little extreme for only missing two hours of sleep, but the scary thing is that it’s possible. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, drowsy driving causes 100,000 crashes yearly, 1,550 of which are fatal.

The more sleep deprived we are, the harder it is for us to focus and retain information during the day. The REM cycle, the final and most important part of our sleep cycle, where all of our cognitive and emotional functions occur, is cut off from consecutively losing two or three hours of sleep.

The REM cycle is also when we commit what we’ve learned to memory. By disrupting it, we are not retaining the information we learned during the day, so we have to stay up later to relearn that information, reread what we read during class or restudy for the test, and we repeat the process the next day. Doing this every night can cause us to become caught in a vicious cycle.

Senior Katie Porwit experiences this vicious cycle of sleep deprivation.

“The Thursday and Friday after I’ve had a really bad week, I really cannot function at all,” Porwit said. “There’s almost no point in going to some classes [because] I can’t focus in class. [If]

I’m falling asleep, I write down the notes, but they don’t mean as much as if I was awake. I’m going through the motions, but it’s not sinking in.”

We all know what Porwit goes through because we do it too. She is just one example of the effects sleep deprivation has on our academic lives, but its implications go beyond academia.

Families will tolerate a certain amount of our mood swings and antisocialness, chalking it up to teenage angst. As we become more sleep deprived, we rise past that accepted level. According to Dyonzak, these behaviors can hurt our relationships with family and friends.

Think about it. How we act turns into habits that become a part of us. If you are always sleep deprived and grumpy or short tempered, then, eventually, you will strain the relationships you have with family and friends.

The problem isn’t just that we’re sleep deprived. It’s that we don’t even realize that it is a problem. So many of us are impacted by it that it has become trivialized. We all just live with it instead of really talking about it or trying to solve it. Other schools around the nation, however, have found ways to address the problem.

Particularly in the Minneapolis, Minnesota, public school district, where the high school start time was pushed back an hour and a half, students’

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In-Depth

prospectornow.com

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December 19, 2014

By Shannon Smith

Executive In-Depth Editor

The 24-hour biological clock, or the Circadian Rhythm, tells the body when to sleep and regulates other psychological functions. The clock is regulated by external cues like sunlight. In the morning, sunlight triggers light sensitive retinal proteins, which signals the suprachiasmatic nucleus to reduce the amount of melatonin, a sleep inducing hormone, to be made. The opposite occurs in the evening.

Most peoples’ biological clocks require eight hours of sleep and 14 hours of being awake. Eight hours of sleep are needed to reset the biological clock.

The body needs to complete several sleep cycles because at the end of each cycle there is REM sleep which restores the brain, and a certain amount of REM sleep is needed.

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ances, including scores on stanand health drastically increased. behavioral issues and tardiness reeople are better, kinder and more well rested, and I know my family n I’m actually nice to be around.

I would love for Prospect’s start ed back, it probably won’t be. For ions to be taken, there needs to be owledgment of the problem. But we can do now to sleep more on a ultimately be healthier. o Dyonzak, we first must make s un-interrupted. This means not ns 30 minutes before bed to let our “turn off and prepare for sleep.” try and normalize our sleep patas possible, so going to bed at 11 nd 1:30 a.m. the next can hurt us r body never grows accustomed to pattern. t may seem, the power to change ands. 40 years ago, smoking was er our parents’ generation, there n smoking because more people d about how dangerous it is. They ture’s view on smoking. Our gennge pop culture’s view on sleep

ALL NIGHTER: Although staying up late to study may seem like a good idea, it can result in a lack of focus and ability to retain information. (Cartoon by Jack McDermott) deprivation, too, by spreading awareness about the importance of sleep. This is our health and happiness, and we need to value it.

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December 19, 2014

Features

prospectornow.com

Gliding in the rink

Students dedicate time to figure skating

By Ivanka Northrop Features Editor

Before leaving for his ice skating competition, junior Anthony Azarcon spends five to 10 minutes building a house of cards in his bedroom. He does this to clear his head and shake off nerves.

“After I build my house of cards, I usually feel less tense and less stressed,” Azarcon said. “It gets my mind off of the competition, and I just feel more focused.”

According to Azarcon, not only does it calm him, but it also helps him have better hand-eye coordination.

Azarcon got the idea three years ago from 2013 Olympic silver medalist Gracie Gold, who he skates with and who herself juggles before competitions to ease her nerves and imUse Aurasma on this picture prove her focus. to see his full routine.

While Azarcon builds his house of cards, sophomore figure skater GO FIGURE: Junior figure skater Anthony Azarcon performs his routine at Lejla Zonic has her own pre-compe- the 2015 Upper Great Lakes regional competition in Minnesota. Azarcon has tition traditions. Before every competition, her coach gives her a Skit- been skating for 12 years and has gotten the opportunity to skate alongside Olympic medalists. (photos courtesy of Anthony Azarcon and Lejla Zonic) tle to calm her down.

In order to overcome her nerves, Azarcon and winter for Zonic — is a she doesn’t look at the other girls busy time of the year. The two agree A day in the life of a who are competing. that competitions pose a lot of stress “I just tell myself in my head, because of the amount of time it figure skater ‘You can do it. You’ve done this so takes to prepare solos and different Junior Anthony Azarcon’s many times before. Just be free,’” routines for each event. weekday schedule: Zonic said.

“Sometimes with skating, it’s 4:30 a.m.: Wake ups and gets While it’s often nerve-wracking, tough to shake things off,” Azarcon both skaters enjoy the uniqueness said. “[But it] allows [for] mental ready for figure skating pracof the sport. tice. push-throughs because skating “Not everybody gets to say ‘I’m a takes a lot [of] commitment and ef5:00 a.m.: Heads to practice figure skater,’” Zonic said. “It’s dif- fort.”

5:30 a.m.: Warms up in the rink ferent.”

Neither skater gets an offseason.

5:50 a.m. to 7:00 a.m. : Trains Azarcon also relishes the individ- Even when they don’t have competiwith coaches and other skatuality that comes with skating. tions coming up, they keep skating. ers.

“Something I enjoy most is being On top of early morning practic7:40 a.m.: Gets to school late able to do something that no one es and school, Azarcon also works because he has first period else can do,” Azarcon said. “When I at Culver’s 20 hours a week. He uses open due to skating practice. tell people [that I ice skate,] they’re the money to pay for skating, which really amazed that I can do it. I’m costs between $10,000 and $15,000 Spends the remainder of first also given so many opportunities as each year. This leaves little time for period doing homework. a skater that [other] people in high homework, which he tries to finish 8:20 a.m. to 2:50 p.m.: school might not have.”

Attends classes and works on during school. If Azarcon gets to Azarcon has been able to skate school at 7:50 a.m., he uses the rest homework during his lunch with Olympic medalists such as of first period, in addition to his period Gold and Jason Brown. His coach, lunch period, to do homework.

3:10 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.: Cross David Santee, was the 1981 World silZonic often finds herself tired by country practice ver medalist and an eight-time U.S. sixth period and has trouble focus5:40 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.: Works at national medalist. ing because of her lack of sleep but Culver’s “It’s really amazing to train with she says skating doesn’t interfere them, and I’m thankful that I’m with homework.

9:15 p.m.: Goes home on a high enough level that I can,” 9:45 p.m.: Go to bed Even though skating can pose a Azarcon said. “It’s weird when you lot of stress, both Azarcon and Zosee them on TV or skating on that nic have learned many life lessons.

Azarcon’s family has also benefitbig stage at the Olympics and then “I have learned that it’s OK to ed from his skating career, and his you see them at practice.” mess up, and as long as you try, mom, Christine Azarcon, is proud Azarcon has that’s really all that she is able to watch him skate been skating that matters,” and see him progress. for 12 years and Azarcon said.

“I work a lot, and I travel a lot too, was introduced Skating has but every time I see him perform, “[When I’m on the ice,] to skating by made Zonic more it gives me the fulfillment that I his older sister, I feel free, like anything motivated, and get something back from my kids,” Patricia.

Zonic it has given her Christine said. “It’s the joy of being has been skating is possible. Whenever I something to a mom because you [get to see how for about sevlook forward to well they skate]. It’s a lot of money en years. When jump, I just feel like I’m and enjoy. ... but it’s really worth doing it. … she was a little defying gravity.”

Skating has It’s just so worth [it] to watch the girl, watching influenced kids.” the Olympics Azarcon’s deciAnthony and Zonic both see inspired her to sions even when themselves skating after high become a figure Lejla Zonic, sophomore they aren’t relat- school, just not competitively. skater. ed to the sport.

“When I think about skating in However, deHe has had to college, I don’t really think about spite their love make certain de- continuing after high school. It’s for and dedication to the sport, both cisions for skating that have taught more like a life thing that I don’t reAzarcon and Zonic stress over try- him how to plan for the future. ally associate with school,” Anthoing to balance skating with school. “[Because of skating,] I always ny said.

The two wake up at 4:30 a.m. to think about future outcomes and While they may not plan on practice before school. Azarcon’s what I really want,” Azarcon said. “I practices are at Oakton Skating Are- just do whatever I want that makes skating competitively, they are not na, a 30-minute drive away. He comes me happy. So I really think about willing to give up the way they feel to school halfway through first peri- the big picture and why I want to while skating. “[When I’m on the ice,] I feel free, od, which he has open specifically to be what [I want to be]. [It has taught like anything is possible,” Zonic be able to skate before school. me] to do what [I] want and not what said. “Whenever I jump, I just feel In addition to practices, competi- other people want.” like I’m defying gravity.” tion season — summer and fall for

prospectornow.com

December 19, 2014

Entertainment

Literature ‘Gone with the wind’ Taking away novels harmful to students Librarian Christie Sylvester recalls a time when a student asked for a copy of “Fifty Shades of Grey,” and although the school doesn’t carry it for obvious reasons, she understands that older students are transitioning into new books and tries to include material that interests teenagers.

“I’m trying to have that balance between books that would fit the curriculum but also appeal to teens of all ages and of all diversity,” Sylvester said.

District 214 students are lucky to freely read literature deemed controversial. However, that privilege was challenged in 2006 when former District 214 board member Leslie Pinney attempted to have seven books removed from the curriculum.

The at-

tempt sparked a debate in the community, and students created a petition that gained 494 signatures prior to the board meeting that decided whether or not Pinney’s proposal would pass. So many people attended the meeting that the fire department was needed in order to keep the room from over-flowing.

Pinney’s attempt was denied in a vote of 6-1 in the board meeting May 25, 2006.

Although District 214 seems to support students exploring all Marci Kiszkiel kinds of literature, Entertainment other districts Editor have challenged and attempted to ban many books required at Prospect.

The Office for Intellectual Freedom of the American Library Association defines a challenge as “an attempt to remove or restrict materials based upon the

titution and underage drinking may be objections of a person or group.”

They define banning as “the remov- concerning, but they are not the story itself, and they certainly aren’t the moral of those materials.”

Having read quite a few challenged als the author is trying to imply. You’re books, I can’t imagine them being con- free to interpret a piece of literature sidered unfit for education. Don’t any way you want, but to remove a book get me wrong. I completely under- because of a theme considered controversial ignores the importance of the stand if parents want to censor their child from topics book as a whole.

Books such as the 1982 novel “Annie addressed in books like “The Scarlet Letter,” but it isn’t fair to impose be- and Me” are also often banned for lesbian, gay, transgender, queer and asexual liefs on an entire student body.

Literature taught in English (LGBTQA) protagonists or themes. Reclassrooms exposes students to diffi- moving these books amplifies the wipcult topics and situations and helps ing out of LGBTQA individuals often them learn the skills they need to face by sheltering them from the characters they critically analyze and unmight find derstand such scenarios.

Books Leslie Pinney most relatable.

Banning books from betried to remove Modern ing taught in school does books also run not help anyone because •“The Things They Carried” the risk of beit harms our ability to un- by Tim O’Brien ing challenged. derstand history on a more •“Slaughterhouse-Five” It’s easy to see personal level. This is espeby Kurt Vonnegut why books like cially true for students who •“The Perks of Being John Green’s are sheltered from topics ada Wallflower” by Ste“Looking dressed in these books. for Alaska,” We can’t pretend that rac- phen Chbosky ism never happened or that it •“Beloved” by Toni Morrison which features sex, drugs, isn’t present today. Books like •“Freakonomics” by trauma and “To Kill a Mockingbird” and Steven D. Levitt and Stedeath, might “Gone With The Wind” phen J. Dubner be pulled off gives us accurate rep•“The Botany of the shelves. resentations of racism Desire: A Plant’s-Eye However, pullthat are thought-proView of the World” ing these stovoking and show us

by Michael Pollan ries robs teens first-hand how people of literature growing up in these they can relate to in an in-depth way. situations reacted.

We can ignore it all we want, but at Banning classic literature in the classroom also prevents a better under- the end of the day, many teens can relate to stories with these controversial standing of more difficult books.

“Catcher in the Rye” is a fantastic themes, and taking away possible repand relatable story for any teenager resentation is far more damaging than suffering through an existential crisis, pretending certain topics don’t exist and it is full of resent for the phony or aren’t relevant today. People need adult world (which is probably why things they can relate to in difficult cirI liked it so much), but the book’s cumstances, and rarely will they find unique writing style and unreliable better representation than that of a narrator are more understandable book.

“Banning exposure in a written form when addressed by an English teacher. I myself didn’t notice the book’s doesn’t protect your child from experidistinct writing style until we dis- encing racism [or] sexism,” English cussed it in class. It made me appreci- teacher Karen Kruse said. “That doesn’t mean that they’re not going to encounate the story even more.

Understandably, mentions of pros- ter it in some form at some point.”

Back in the day: Looking back at 90s entertainment

By Flynn Geraghty Features Editor

The 1990s were a time of infamous products such as inflatable furniture, Push-Pops and the terrifying slap bracelet.

Even though many Prospect students were born during the tail end of that decade, they still proudly claim they’re 90s kids through and through because many of them believe the era’s entertainment is just plain awesome.

“If [teenagers] are proud of their generation and like the stuff that came out of it, then they will associate themselves with it, like, ‘Oh, I was in that cool era! I lived during that!’” junior Marlee Hoffman said.

People say this generation’s TV shows don’t hold a candle to those of the 90s. “[The shows of the 90s] had a plotline, and they followed it,” Hoffman said. “A lot of shows today don’t follow any sort of a plot. They just sort of go episode by episode and don’t really string them together, and then [those shows] only last for a few years. Shows from the 90s lasted for a really long time.”

The shows back then, such as “Friends” and “Seinfeld,” were about groups of friends and their day-to-day experiences.

“They were able to develop the characters more, and you were able to connect with the characters,” Hoffman said. “[The characters] were funny and relatable. Somebody would trip and fall and you would say, ‘Oh my gosh, I’ve done that before.’”

Sitcoms today, such as “The Big Bang Theory,” often try to mimic the formula used by popular 90s shows. However, “The Big Bang Theory” is more focused on stereotypical nerds. “Seinfeld,” on the other hand, tried to be more general; it focused on experiences that many people have faced thus making it easy for viewers to put themselves in the character’s shoes.

“That’s what all the really good shows did,” Dr. Jay Kyp-Johnson, school psychologist and head of film club, said.

“They broke it down to simple things that everyone could relate to.”

Like what was on TV, 90s movies focused on strengthening interpersonal relationships, whether it be between a child and his family or between a cowboy and a space ranger.

Social Science teacher Jim Adair is one of Prospect’s bigger fans of 90s films. He is quick to say 90s films are some of the best and will remain that way for years to come. “‘Forrest Gump’ is always

going to be popular. ‘Terminator’ is always going to be popular. ‘Titanic’ is always going to be popular,” Adair said. “Well, the ‘Terminator’ movies are kind of dumb, but you know, it’s Arnold Schwarzenegger.

What do you expect?”

While TV and movies were heartfelt, grunge was growing ever-popular in the music scene. Started in Seattle and spread throughout the world, bands like Nirvana and Pearl Jam were formed with the sole purpose of defying popular trends and looking as “grungy” as possible.

“Grunge was doing things like not shaving and looking like a mess,” Adair said. “I just call that Saturday mornings.”

Grunge bands are still fairly popular today with Prospect students, and many of them bare the emblems of their favorite 90s bands on their crop tops.

It’s quite possible that these bands even started some of today’s fashion fads. Torn jeans and flannel shirts resemble the fashion trends established by grunge. And if you add a beanie, then you’ve got a hipster look going on.

While 90s entertainment seems like two ends of a spectrum — the TV and movies seemed happy-go-lucky while the music was much darker — all aforementioned forms

Use Aurasma on this picture to see a clip from this show!

NO SOUP FOR YOU: Characters from “Seinfeld” often spent

their time at Monk’s Café, based off Tom’s Restaurant. Reruns of Seinfeld are still frequently played. “[My kids and I] will be watching [Seinfeld] for a long time,” school pychologist Dr. Jay Kyp-Johnson said. (photo courtesy of Wally Gobetz on Flickr)

of media have an underlying theme of unity.

Visual media brought people together by creating strong relationships, while grunge focused on embracing flaws and created a communal revolution of people who stood together and told the world, “That’s right! I haven’t brushed my hair and probably haven’t bathed either, and that’s the way I like it!”

“People like reminiscing on better times, especially now, since times are tough,” Kyp-Johnson said. “People are

having trouble finding jobs, and they’re really just desperate for some good times to look back on.”

Adair calls the 90s one of the best decades of the last century. We weren’t in any sort of a long-lasting war or conflict, and there was an overwhelming sense of camaraderie and of embracing individuality.

“People were always upbeat and positive in the 90s,” Adair said. “I look back and I think, ‘Yeah, those were some pretty good times.’”

11

12

Entertainment

December 19, 2014

prospectornow.com

Bad movies make good times

By Garrett Strother

Entertainment Editor With winter break coming up, many a bored Tuesday night will assuredly be spent in front of a TV with a blanket, friends and a warm mug of cocoa.

Since watching truly terrible and unenjoyable movies is a torture none should endure, I have done all the heavy lifting for you. Some obvious, some completely obscure, the following films are the most entertaining and hilarious bad movies out there. They are truly the best of the worst.

BUBBA HO TEP

Elvis lives. In a retirement home, however, and under a false name. Having switched places with an Elvis impersonator decades before, the King of Rock is now an old curmudgeon and bored out of his mind. Luckily for him, adventure comes his way when he discovers an ancient Egyptian mummy has come to his retirement home and is sucking the residents’ souls out of their bodies. He teams up with an elderly African American man who is convinced he is John F. Kennedy, and the two work together to take the mummy down.

Filled with thrilling horror and lengthy narration regarding elderly Elvis’ bodily functions, it is a must-see.

PLAN 9 FROM OUTER SPACE

Widely considered the worst movie of all time, Ed Wood’s visionary tale of extraterrestrial invaders has influenced filmmakers for over 50 years. The special effects are stunning, and the plot is filled with enough intrigue and sci-fi adventure to last a lifetime.

EARTH GIRLS ARE EASY

Filled with fantastic acting and jaw-dropping special effects, “Earth Girls Are Easy” is an incredible tale of feminism and alien rights.

Aliens played by Jeff Goldblum and Jim Carrey crash land on Earth looking for some girls that are (you guessed it) easy. Also, it’s a musical.

THE ROOM

Written, directed, produced and starred by the ingenious Tommy Wiseau, this instant classic blew up across social media long before “Sharknado.” “The Room” is a tour de force, especially considering its minuscule budget. It features one of the most charismatic characters of all time and his slow descent into insanity as his friends and loved ones betray him and tear apart his perfect life.

By Abby Sunu and Isabelle Rogers Entertainment Editors

This year’s winter play, “Air Guitar High,” brought a different style and element to the stage as well as a new director, choir teacher Robert Shellard.

Though this was Shellard’s first production, he felt confident and comfortable taking on this leadership role due to his past experiences.

“I am a choir teacher by trade. That’s my full time job, and so the idea of putting on a production appeals to me,” Shellard said. “I grew up in a family where theater was everything.”

This year, Shellard decided to apply for the position of director because he wanted to get more involved at Prospect and because of his respect for the theater department.

Shellard’s new position as director has brought many new and exciting changes during production and performance.

“We [have provided] Mr. Shellard with this opportunity, and it is a really cool experience,” Fine Arts Division Head Jeremy Morton said. “I think we need to focus on moving forward versus the past. It’s a good choice, and I’m really excited about it.”

Shellard picked “Air Guitar High” because it strays from traditional play-writing and was written as a concert.

With Shellard’s direction, this production also incorporated new technology. These changes included a plexiglass stage that lights up different colors (hover over the Aurasma-marked image in order to see) and a screen that projects the live broadcasting from a video camera used by the actors.

“In terms of the future, I would love to direct some more,” Shellard said.

“This has definitely been an awesome experience. Definitely a good way to break up choir-land.”

Michael Jordan dribbles a shark from the “Sharknado”, a crossover that would be and revolutionary. (graphic

by Garrett Strother)

head out the door quickly, make sure to grab a healthy granola bar, like a Kind Bar, in order to stay healthy.

Do: Make time for socializing Do: Supply your own pencils and As finals sneak up on us, it is impens portant to remember to go out once in This may seem unnecessary, but a while and actually socialize. Any exthink about a day in the life of a pencil. It gets thrown into the bottom of a cess stress can cause you to miss days backpack with who knows what else, of school. Stress lowers your immune followed by getting used after you touch system and makes it easier to get sick, but socializing the same railing helps decrease that half of the the amount of student body stress students has used. Your have to deal (most likely) unwith. Socializing washed hands also increases touch it after levels of a horyou eat lunch, mone called oxyand you use the tocin, which desame sharpener creases anxiety that the kid who levels. Socializchews pencils ing is importMy favorite way to stay healthy during does. ant to keeping You have a the winter is drinking Emergen-C. Below yourself healthy, significantly you can find the flavors available, the and it keeps you lower chance of cost, and where to buy it. temporarily picking up an distracted from illness if you Flavors available: your own stress supply your Super orange, tangerine, levels. own pencils and raspberry, cranberry-pomeDon’t: Abuse switch them out granite, tropical, lemon-lime, hand sanitizer every few days. acai berry, pink lemonade, Everybody Mechanical pentriple berry, dragon fruit, cocoknows someone cils are an even who is always nut-pineapple, strawberry-kiwi. better idea beusing hand sanCost: $9 for a box of 30 cause you skip itizer, and if you Where to get them: Walthe step of havdon’t, you are ing to deal with greens, CVS and Mariano’s that someone. pencil sharpenHand sanitizer er germs. Supis a great way to plying your own kill bacteria if pens and pencils you do not have keeps you safe access to soap along with keeping the rest of your classmates healthy, and water, but overuse of antibiotics has created antibiotic-resistant bactoo. teria. According to the Center for DisDon’t: Skip breakfast We all have those days when our ease Control and Prevention, washing alarm clocks don’t go off and we get out hands with soap and water is the best the door half an hour later than usual, so it sometimes seems impossible to get breakfast before you go to school. According to Livestrong, skipping breakfast negatively impacts weight, hormonal health, memory, cognition and mood. “[Whether on not a student has eaten breakfast is] one of the first questions I ask when kids come in with headaches,” school nurse Cheryl Novak said. “[Another is] if they are eating plenty of fruits and vegetables.”

The Eat Right Organization suggests building a breakfast based on protein, which most students don’t include in this meal. Eggs, nut butter, fruits and vegetables are quick and easy ways to add protein to this meal. If you have to

Entertainment Editor

Changes rock play

SNARKNADO:

CON AIR

Nicolas Cage seamlessly becomes a subtlety-accented Southern war veteran in the best installment of his prestigious career. After being wrongfully imprisoned, he is being transported via plane when a band of his fellow prisoners takes over the aircraft. Perhaps the most tense moment is when John Malkovich holds a stuffed animal hostage. In the immortal words of Nicolas Cage, “put the bunny down.”

SPACE JAM

Or, perhaps the bunny won’t stay down. Bugs Bunny, that is. In the most random series of pop culture crossovers ever conceived, the Looney Toons enlist the help of a retired Michael Jordan to beat a race of evil aliens in a game of basketball when they come to enslave the Looney Toons and take them back to their theme park in space.

Bill Murray, playing himself, also delivers a fantastic performance in the masterpiece’s climactic game.

Do’s and don’ts for a healthy winter

By Isabelle Rogers

LIGHTS, CAMERA, RAMP: Actors in the winter play descend from the stage via a ramp into the audience. (photo by Lauren Miller)

SHARKNADO

One of the biggest sleeper hits of the past few years, this 2013 disaster/ thriller blew up across social media and launched an entire franchise. When a shiver of sharks gets caught in the path of a coast-wrecking tornado, it creates an iconic film monster that is sure to go down in history as one of the greatest horror classics of all time.

way to reduce the number of microbes on them. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60 percent alcohol.

Do: Stay hydrated It may seem not as important as it is, but staying hydrated affects everything you do. Dry mouth, swollen tongue, weakness, dizziness, palpitations (feeling that the heart is jumping or pounding), confusion, sluggishness, fainting and inability to sweat are just some of the not-so-serious side effects of dehydration. Dehydration also makes your skin, scalp and lips very dry. “Stay hydrated, stay beautiful” is a phrase to live by.

“Drinking a lot of fluids [is important], especially this time of year when the air is so dry,” Novak said. “We are all getting dehydrated even though it’s not hot and we are not sweating.”

Don’t: Forget to check your vitamin C and D levels During the winter, it is hard to get enough vitamin C and D. The lack of sunlight during the winter leads to major deficiencies. Vitamin D is produced during exposure to sunlight and promotes bone growth and health, and any deficiencies can cause soft, fragile or misshapen bones. An easy way to fix that is to get your vitamin D levels checked by your doctor and take supplements when suggested.

“I actually get my vitamin D levels checked every year,” Novak said. “I have been very low in the past during winter, and I do take vitamin D [supplements].”

Vitamin C plays a major role in supporting the immune system, so it’s important to incorporate it into your diet, whether through orange juice or fruits.

If your diet doesn’t include enough vitamin C, vitamin C drink mixes are a simple way to fix that problem (see “Emergen-C”).

prospectornow.com

Entertainment

December 19, 2014

13

Hall of fame

2 0 1 4:

TFIOS This summer, “The Fault in Our Stars” prompted tearful reactions and tweets.

Although this year was filled with surprises and events, we also lost some of our most notable celebrities.

YEAR IN REVIEW

By Krzys Chwala and Caroline Binley Copy Editors

ROBIN WILLIAMS ACTOR/COMEDIAN 1951 - 2014

Orange is the New Black: This Netflix-original series gained major attention this year, winning a variety of awards such as Emmies and Grammies.

Productions:

During the 2013-2014 school year, Prospect theater performed “Shrek: the Musical,” a contemporary adaption of a series of films we all know and love. “Urinetown” was the first district-wide musical this summer.

Breaking records:

MAYA ANGELOU AUTHOR/ACTIVIST 1928 - 2014

In November, Taylor Swift’s “Blank Space” took over No. 1 single “Shake it Off,” a feat that hasn’t been accomplished in 56 years.

PHILIP SEYMOUR HOFFMAN ACTOR

info courtesy of billboard.com

1967 - 2014

SHIRLEY TEMPLE SINGER/ACTRESS

Say hello to ...

This year featured appearances by many new stars including (from left to right) singers Sam Smith, Iggy Azalea and Meghan Trainor. Each of these artists has made the Billboards. Other new stars include singer Hozier, Ansel Elgort and Theo James.

1928 - 2014

JOAN RIVERS COMEDIAN 1965 - 2014

photos courtesy of imdb, WikiCommons, Hollywood Reporter and Jeremy Morton

14

December 19, 2014

prospectornow.com

Sports

Encountering early recruitment to send written offers to recruits. When the NCAA passed new legislation five years ago, “Does my swing look good bumping back the date of when enough?” “Do I need to show written offers could be extended by 11 months (from Septemmore of my defensive side?”

These are the questions that ber 1 of the student’s junior run through freshman Lauren year to August 1 of his or her Caldrone’s mind as she creates senior year), their intention her recruitment skill video for was to slow down the recruitsoftball. This video is the key ing process.

The notion was that players to her future. It features all her skills and will be distributed wouldn’t commit to a school to college coaches at showcase until they had written offers in hand. tournaments.

However, the NCAA was All her hours of practice, tens of tournaments and years very, very wrong. Instead of of experience will be trimmed slowing down the process, redown to an eight-minute vid- cruits are now being verbally eo highlighting her career. offered and committing earlier With all this pressure to get than ever.

With early offers and comrecruited, one would assume that Caldrone is a high school mitments increasing, gender is senior, hoping to get recruited becoming an increasingly obvious factor. to a college.

FortuHowever, Chance of playing sports nately for she is only Caldrone, in college a freshman and many with three years until Sport % of Athletes other girls, early reshe plays Boys’ basketball 3.3 cruitment is college ball.

Girls’ basketball 3.7 more preva“You Mens’ soccer 5.7 lent in womwon’t be Football 6.5 en’s sports recruited Baseball 6.8 than men’s, as a junior in part beor senior,” cause girls *information via NCAA.org Caldrone mature said. “You only get into good schools at a sooner. But off the record, younger age. Division I schools many coaches say this is parare all freshman and sopho- tially due to Title IX, the federal law that requires equal more [recruits].”

In 2012, roughly 225 of the spending on men’s and womtop 300 football players had al- en’s sports. Because of this, ready committed to a school colleges have increased the before August 1 – the first day number of women’s sports college programs were allowed scholarships they offer, lead-

By Amber Alerta Staff Writer

SWING FOR THE FENCES: Freshman Lauren Caldrone prepares for an incoming pitch. Caldrone, like many other young athletes, face the pressure of recruitment. (photo courtesy of Lauren Caldrone) ing to a growing number of coaches chasing talent pools of younger children.

“In women’s soccer, there are more scholarships than there are good players,” Peter Albright, the coach at Richmond, told the New York Times. “In men’s sports, it’s the opposite.”

Along with the pressure of

realizing the numerous scholarship opportunities, young athletes start to discover the many effects on them and their family. As other athletes are getting recruited earlier and earlier every year, teens like Caldrone feel the pressure of getting recruited in their eighth and ninth years of school.

“It makes me so nervous. It makes me feel like there are no more spots for me,” Caldrone said. “It makes me nervous because that’s just from around Illinois. I couldn’t imagine the talent from other states.”

For girls like Caldrone, whose future revolves around softball, there is no back-up plan.

Her entire softball career has been planned in advance from the get-go. From what teams she plays on to her social media posts, everything has to be perfectly aligned.

However, Caldrone isn’t the only one feeling the burden: her family feels some of the weight as well.

“Lauren’s future is very, very expensive,” Bob Caldrone said. “It doesn’t seem like it in the beginning, but all the uniforms, tournaments, time and especially the gas all really add up. The skill video alone costs $675.”

Despite Bob having his mind on the money, all the time and effort will not be in vain. Caldrone could possibly be a part of the eight percent of high school athletes to play NCAA Division I college sports.

However, her future is not the only thing on Lauren’s mind. She still has the wild adventure called high school in front of her.

“Enough with all this serious college talk,” Lauren said.

“I’m still a teenager before anything else. I want to hang with my friends and not do my homework. Oh, and driving. I want to drive.”

prospectornow.com

December 19, 2014

Sports

15

The point behind the guards Boys’ and girls’ point guards use past experience to define new varsity roles

By Ryan Molini Sports Editor

Before sophomore Haley Will even took a class at Prospect, she had a major impact on many upperclassmen as she was a starter on the girls’ varsity basketball team as a freshman. During the summer heading into freshman year, Will was brought up on varsity and competed against girls three and four years older than her.

During Will’s freshman season, she earned the role of starting point guard, and it was her responsibility to distribute the ball and run the team’s offense.

Varsity boys’ senior point guards Kyle Beyak and Joe Paczko also made major impacts at a young age. During their sophomore year, they led the sophomore team to a record-breaking 24-1 record.

These athletes have a great responsibility on their teams as point guards, even if their style of guard-play is different from one another.

Beyak, who stands at 5 feet 11 inches, understands he has to create his own shots and take care of the ball as a point guard and a shorter player on the court.

When Beyak was younger, he was a shooting guard. In middle school his dad, thinking about his future, taught him to be more of a point guard.

Beyak sees himself as more of a scoring point guard now, which differs from his role as a passing point guard last year.

“This year, my role has changed,” Beyak said. “I have to create more [shots] for my teammates and try to get the ball in the basket [myself].”

Will first started playing point guard when she was in fifth grade because of her ability to handle the ball well at a young age.

As a sophomore distributing the ball and running the team’s offense, the senior leaders helped Will adapt into her role as the varsity point guard.

Will credits a lot of her ability to playing with her senior sis-

BREAKING THE PRESS: Sophomore point guard Haley Will brings up the ball against the Buffalo Grove Bison at Jean Walker Fieldhouse Thursday, Dec. 4. (photo by Cassidy Selep)

ter and fellow guard, Taylor.

“Pick-up games [have helped me], especially against Taylor,” Will said.

“She’s a really great player, so she’s helped me a lot to develop over the years.”

Will also experienced playing Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) basketball with Full Package, an elite program based in Northbrook. Will says playing AAU has increased her success on varsity. Will also credits her ball handling skills to working with her AAU coach and practicing with her team against some of the top sophomore girls in the area.

Beyak, like Will, also competed in AAU basketball on two different teams, Fundamental U out of Lake Forest and more recently at Illinois Old School.

At AAU, Beyak learned to have more control when closing a game and feels he has earned the respect needed to be trusted in order to do so.

Fellow senior point guard Joe Paczko likes the challenge of guarding Beyak in practice and learns a lot from him as well.

“It’s pretty fun. [Beyak] is a really really good player, and he challenges me a lot,” Paczko said. “I push him as hard as I can and help him become a better player. He pushes me to become a better player.”

According to Paczko, Beyak taught him to be aggressive in games and to always look to attack.

“He sets a really good example,” Paczko said. “[He] plays hard on offense and defense and is really good at getting everyone involved.”

This is Beyak’s second year starting on varsity, and his leadership has impacted underclassmen and even se-

DRIVING THE LANE:

Senior point guard Kyle Beyak drives the baseline against the Buffalo Grove Bison at Jean Walker Fieldhouse Friday, Dec. 12. As of this date, Beyak led the Knights with 13.5 points per game as he has developed into a scoring point guard this year. (photo

by Cassidy Selep)

MSL East boys’ point guards Senior Kyle Beyak, at 5’ 11,” stands as the median height amongst MSL East point guards.

BGHS so. Collin Dekorsi 5’ 8” RMHS so. Jack Schoessling 5’ 9” PHS sr. Kyle Beyak 5’ 11” JHHS sr. Max Heeren 6’ 0” WHS sr. Ola Arogundade 6’ 3” EGHS sr. Dan Hadler 6’ 4” niors he’s been playing with for over four years.

“Last year, as a junior point guard, I didn’t have much respect. You have to gain it,” Beyak said. “Once you have it, you have to know how to get all the guys together.”

Both Beyak and Will continue to be trusted with the ball

late in games and especially when winning. “[Handling the ball late in games is] crucial,” Will said.

“It can depend on if you win or lose. You definitely have to be confident in your ball handling and your teammates. That’s where practicing comes in. You practice like you play.”

WATER BREAK WITH MADDIE LAROCK Q. How did you get interested in gymnastics,

Athlete: Maddie Larock Year: Senior Sport: Gymnastics

and who has impacted your career?

A. My parents put my brothers and I in

Q. How has recruitment been going?

A. My top choice is U of I. However, there are some skills I need to get that I am still working on getting. I am talking to Northern Illinois and Michigan State. UIC and Oshkosh have also offered me spots.

Q. How has the team been doing so far?

What have been highlights this season?

A. The team is doing great so far. We won the Conant Invite for the second year in a row, and there was a lot of competition. Individually has also been great. Our coaches always tell us to attack when we compete, and I feel like I finally started doing that during competitions, and it has made more scores be more consistent. It also makes meets more fun.

Maddie Larock

Q. Reaching state was a huge accomplishment last year. Is that something you guys are looking forward to this year?

A. It’s definitely not guaranteed at all, but having everybody back from last year to compete is a big help.

gymnastics when we were younger. I always really liked it and had fun trying new things. I really didn’t get serious about gymnastics until my freshman or sophomore year, which is late. I think I started to care more about how I did after I switched gyms to Elk Grove Gymnastics and had Randy [Smith] as a coach. I always had fun doing it, but he kind of steered me in the right direction and showed that I could be good if I really wanted to. I would say having him as a coach has made the biggest impact on my career. I’ve always liked practicing, but he has a good way of making short-term and long-term goals that makes everything more worth it. Practice is a mix of serious but fun. We have a good relationship, and he’s always there for me and honest.

Q. Gianna Scala was a huge part of the team.

How did she make an impact on you going into your final year?

A. Even though she couldn’t compete last year, it was nice having Gianna on the side, teaching me how everything goes. I really learned a lot from her going into my senior year.

SPORTS Friday, December 19, 2014

On ProspectorNow.com ...

Learn how senior Stephen Schmit was able to break Prospect’s boys’ six-dive record at Fremd Dec. 5. To see full coverage of the team including today’s Buffalo Grove meet, visit ProspectorNow.com

Girls’ basketball sustains success

By Devin Prasad

Executive Sports Editor It was late in the first quarter when senior Taylor Will made a driving lay-up to give Prospect a 14-11 lead.

On a normal night, that shot would not have meant much, but against rival Hersey, the shot meant she became the alltime leading scorer in Prospect girls’ basketball history, with 1375 points.

The Knights went on to win the game 52-48, led by Will’s 26 points in front of a packed crowd of rival student sections, parents and fans excited to see two of the area’s top teams face off. The Knights’ record sits at 7-0 as of Dec. 11, and they have

looked strong since winning the York tournament to start the season.

In the three weeks leading up to their opening game, the team focused on executing its offense and playing tough defense.

According to senior forward Catherine Sherwood, the team is confident in its transition offense. The players feel they can beat most teams up the court and convert easy lay-ups due to their off-season training.

“We run the ball really fast, and it is something that usually catches teams off guard,” Sherwood said.

The team looks to show their talent against a conference that has become a powerhouse in girls’ basketball, the

BREAKING RECORDS: Senior Taylor Will runs down the court Friday, Dec. 5 game at Hersey. Will scored 26 points during the game to become the all-time leading scorer in Prospect girls’ basketball. (photos by Cassidy Selep)

girls’ basketball 12/19 - 7:30 p.m. @ Wheeling 1/06 - 7:30 p.m. @ Fremd 1/08 - 7 p.m. @ Highland Park 1/10 - 2:30 p.m. vs Rolling Meadows 1/16 - 7:30 p.m. @ Elk Grove 1/23 - 7:30 p.m. vs Wheeling 1/27 - 7:30 p.m. @ Buffalo Grove 1/30 - 7:30 p.m. @ Rolling Meadows 1/31 - 2:30 p.m. vs Glenbrook South

wrestling 12/20 - 10 a.m. vs Hononegah and Waubonsie Valley @ Glenbard North 1/09 - 6 p.m. vs Rolling Meadows 1/16 - 6 p.m. vs Elk Grove

MSL East. In 2010, rival Hersey made it to the state semi-finals.

In 2012, Wheeling made it to the supersectionals. For the last two seasons, Rolling Meadows, led by ‘14 graduate Jackie Kemph, has made it to the state finals.

With a dominant team in the East each year, Prospect hasn’t had an opportunity to rise to the top. Sherwood believes the team has been very talented the past three years but hasn’t had the opportunity to show that off.

“One of our goals [is] to compete for an East title,” head coach Ashley Graham said.

“We just feel like with this team, we can do that. Every team and every night is going to be a battle ... There are no weak teams in our conference, so every night is going to be a competitive, great basketball game.”

Will also hopes the team will win a title.

“I think the East is very talented and especially more talented than it has been in past years,” Will said. “Everyone is really great this year. I think that we have been working really hard, and we definitely have a shot to win the East.”

Over the past three years, the team has been building a strong program.

Graham has coached the team for the previous two years with Sherwood and Will, who both competed on varsity their sophomore years.

“It has just been really special,” Graham said. “We’ve created such a special bond, and I feel that way with all the kids on the team.”

According to Sherwood, this is the year they hope to see that work pay off. Three of the four seniors, including Sherwood, will not have the opportunity to play in college.

boys’ swimming and diving

OFF THE GLASS: Senior Catherine Sherwood goes for a

rebound during the Friday, Dec. 5 game at Hersey. Sherwood has been a key part of varsity since her sophomore year and has seen the program grow under coach Graham.

“It’s sad for me, realizing that I’ve played for so long and it’s my last year. So I really want to focus on doing well my last year,” Sherwood said.

Along with winning the East, the team hopes to eventually climb the ladder to state.

Each step they take this season adds to the legacy they hope to

girls’ gymnastics

12/19 - 4:30 p.m. vs Buffalo Grove @ Wheeling

1/06 - 6 p.m.

Elk Grove and Palatine @ Elk Grove

1/09 - 4:30 p.m. @ Schaumburg

1/21 - 6 p.m.

Hersey and Buffalo Grove @ Hersey

1/16 - 4:30 p.m. @ Elk Grove

1/23 - 6 p.m. @ Wheeling

1/23 - 4:30 p.m. vs Rolling Meadows @ Wheeling

1/30 - 6 p.m. @ Hoffman Estates vs Fremd

1/27 - 5 p.m. @ Maine West

1/30 - 6 p.m.

MSL Conference @ Palatine

boys’ basketball

build.

“These past few years [are] like the foundation of the legacy we are going to build,” Sherwood said. “Since our foundation has been so good, it will lead to a lasting legacy. I think it has really changed Prospect basketball, and it’s mainly because of coach Graham.”

girls’ bowling*

12/19 - 7:30 p.m. vs Wheeling

1/07 - 4:45 p.m. @ Elk Grove

1/09 - 7:30 p.m. @ Rolling Meadows

1/21 - 4:30 p.m. vs Wheeling

1/17 - 6 p.m. @ Elk Grove

1/22 - 4:30 p.m. vs Hersey

1/24 - 6 p.m. @ Buffalo Grove

1/26 - 4:30 p.m. vs Rolling Meadows

1/27 - 7 p.m. vs Glenbrook North

1/28 - 4:45 p.m. vs Palatine

1/30 - 7:30 p.m. vs Rolling Meadows

1/31 - 8:30 a.m. @ MSL Conference

1/30 - 4:30 p.m. @ Wheeling

winter sports calendar

*All meets @ Arlington Lanes