Issue 50, Vol 1 by The Correspondent

Celebrating Volumes of Student Journalism • Volume 50 Issue 1 • August 16, 2017 • John Hersey High School

1900 East Thomas Street • Arlington Heights, Illinois • 60004

Key figures reflect on how Hersey came to be Revealing the untold story behind the name

Joshua Irvine This year will mark 50 volumes of The Correspondent (originally known as The Endeavor). Throughout the year, The Correspondent will publish articles detailing the history of John Hersey High School and its namesake. This is the first. Few put much thought into their high school's name. "I'm more worried about the education I'm getting than the name of the school," senior Chris Sable said. It's especially justified in District 214, where five of the six schools are named after the local township. The story behind the name of John Hersey High School, however, is a unique controversy from a uniquely controversial era. Nov. 9, 1968. One John Hersey exited from the passenger seat of a sedan; his wife, Barbara, was in the car with him. Jack Martin, public relations assistant to the superintendent and the reason Hersey was here, shifted nervously in the driver's seat. Tension ran high; not helping things was the marching band waiting outside, who'd broken into the Harvard fight song as Hersey arrived. The journalist was a Yale graduate. Hersey had come for a hot dog and Coke luncheon, to be followed by a press conference and open house. The dedication of the school was the next day. The meeting, to introduce Hersey to his school and vice versa, was in large part an attempt to relieve the misgivings of everyone from District 214's board to the new school students. Martin returned to Hersey some 50 years after that afternoon, now in his 80s. A longtime administrative member of D214, former journalism adviser, and occasional reporter for the Daily Herald, his memory remains crystal clear about that morning in 1968 and the events that preceded it. The road to getting Hersey's name on the building and the man inside it had not been an easy one. The maverick reporter who'd defied convention with his 1946 New Yorker feature on the atomic bombing on Hiroshima had always attracted controversy. "Hiroshima" is the most famous example of the author's contentious legacy; its frank depictions of the horrors of the atomic bombing still shock today. "It was vivid," sophomore Misha Nikiforov said. "[Hersey] described it so Online well." That's what Read online to find out who is featured in Au- most students know Hersey gust's Feature Friday. for. "He went to Hiroshima after the bombing and that's what his main story's about," junior Shawn Hiramatsu said. But Hersey's legacy for con-

Entertainment

page 7

Feel unsettled with Joshua Irvine's review of "Detroit".

pedigree and presence on various educational boards as leverage. At the time, the use of a living person's name, particularly that of a controversial journalist, was unprecedented. Faith Otterly, editor of The Correspondent from 1968-70, recalled the momentum of the decision. "If I remember correctly, this was the first high school named after a living person... in Illinois," she said. The board's decision appeared in newspapers August 30, 1966. Board member Art Aronson publicly criticized the decision. He said, "I am against any names of politicians and people who live in our era," in reference to the use of Hersey's name. The sentiment is understandable today. "I'm sure there were people upset about it; I'm sure there were parents who didn't want their kids to go here because of the name," senior Lauren Kleve said. At the time, Hersey was unaware even that his name had •Correspondent archives been selected by the board, much less the controversy beohn Hersey and a member of the administration hind the decision. He consented walk the halls of the newly constructed Hersey High to the use of his name, stating in School in 1968. the Nov. 9, 1968 issue of the recently rechristened Correspontroversy didn't end there. In 1968, he had just dent, "I accept with great sense published a nonfiction novel "The Algiers Motel of excitement your offer to name a high school Incident," a recounting of the killings of three for me." black men during Detroit's 12th Street Riots (the Construction began late in 1966. Then came events Hersey covered would be adapted into the the Detroit riots and Hersey's novel, which sent 2017 film "Detroit"). ripples through the already divided school board. But it was not the coverage of the Algiers Further adding tension was discontent among Motel or even Hiroshima that kick-started the students who would otherwise have attended chain of events that led to John Hersey standing Arlington High School. Arlington, District 214's in front of his namesake school in 1968. Rather first school, had become a rallying point for forit was a fiction novel of his by the name of "The mer and current students, and the sudden move Child Buyer." of so many students to the new Hersey High anHersey transitioned towards fiction after "Hi- gered many. Martin and others worried that rage roshima," publishing several critically acclaimed would be directed at Hersey when he came for novels and an article in Life magazine that in- the dedication. spired Dr. Seuss' "The Cat in the Hat." "The And then there was the press. Otterly recalled Child Buyer" was among his novels; it was a sat- the "media circus" that appeared at the school ire first published in 1960 that criticized the fed- for the author's arrival. Hersey generally avoided eral government's implementation of the 1958 the public eye and disliked media appearences, National Defense Education Act in response to so reporters sprung on Hersey's announcement the Soviet launch of Sputnik. The Act, in what that he would appear at the school. Journalists Martin sarcastically characterized as "this great collected in Arlington Heights to ask questions need to save our ass," threatened elective cours- and offer criticism. Most of it, according to Otes as it pushed a science-heavy curriculum into terly, had little to do with the dedication of the public schools. new school. "The Child Buyer" struck a chord with MarIn short, things looked bleak when Hersey artin when he picked it up around early 1966. At rived in early November of 1968. But when he the same time, the district was debating what to stepped out of Jack Martin's car that day, with name one of a series of schools that had been the band literally blaring his college rival's song built to accommodate the teen population of the in what couldn't have been a better analogy for now adolescent Baby Boomers. The district had the opposition Hersey and his school faced, the selected "Willow High School," named for the unexpected happened. adjacent street that is now Thomas Street, as ear"When we pulled up to the school, he was in ly as June 27, 1966. tears," Martin said. Martin managed to persuade the "conventional" school board to change the name to John Hersey High School, using the reporter's Yale Continued on page 2

• Twitter: @Hersey_corre • Snapchat: hersey_corre • • Instagram: @hersey_corre •

D d you KN W?

Florida school district bans homework

For the upcoming school year, Marion County School District in Florida will be banning nightly homework assignments. Instead, the district is recommending students read at least 20 minutes per night. In addition, teachers will still be able to assign the occasional research or science project. “For elementary school students, this is probably beneficial because it eliminates needless busywork and students can still enjoy being a kid,” senior John McDonough said. The district superintendent, Heidi Maier, cites research by Richard Allington, professor at University of Tennessee, to justify her decision. Allington’s research concluded reading boosts academic performance more than traditional homework. “I don’t think this is a good idea; elementary school students should be learning and practicing all subject areas, not just reading,” junior Josh Harden said.

•Quinn Cunningham

Ohio State Fair turns deadly

One person died and seven more were injured after a ride at the Ohio State Fair collapsed on July 26. The ride, “Fire Ball”, broke down in the air and sent riders flying out of the ride. The ride passed numerous inspections before the tragic accident occurred. An investigation later found that the ride’s beams had serious corrosion which led to the accident. “I was very surprised to hear this happened because I have been to places like that and they do very thorough inspections,” junior Cassidy Ginder said. Seven others, ranging from 14-42, were injured and treated in local hospitals. Some of the injured were on the ride when it collapsed and others were struck by debris that came of the machine “I was sad to hear people got hurt because they were just there to have fun,” Ginder said. According to CNN, 22 people have died since 2010 on amusement park rides.

•Claire Dwyer

News

August 16, 2017

Freshmen receive restricted iPads Quinn Cunningham

sible for our own education; we have to take initiative to not be distracted,” senior Andrew Jacob said. It makes a lot of sense to still allow upperclassman This school year, the incoming freshmen class will receive iPads that are restricted from downloading to download apps. Some students know they are capaapps. In years past, freshmen were able to download ble of completing their tasks later, and they just want a apps on their own; however, last year teachers saw an little break from school,” senior Ian Ziegenhorn said. In terms of this decision being beneficial to the inincrease in students becoming distracted by games or coming freshman class, students have mixed opinions. other non-educational activities on the iPad. “Teachers were complaining about the influx of dis- “It will both help and hurt the freshman class because tractions with the iPads,” Technology help desk assis- it forces them to pay attention in class, but it doesn’t tant Bruce Males said. “We wanted students to focus allow them to learn how to handle distractions,” Burkhalter said. on the tasks they are involved with “I don’t see how this can hurt in the classroom.” the freshmen. The new rules will Students, too, have noticed a just seem like the norm to them,” range of distractions due to the Ziegenhorn said. iPads in class. “Last year, I did Although the change is new see people playing games during this year, the idea has been around class, but it didn’t happen too ofsince the iPads were first used. ten,” sophomore Josh Methner “The discussion has happened said. previously; District 211 has been “I definitely saw iPads become doing this every since they started a distraction to some classmates. I using iPads,” Males said. don’t think playing games in class In fact, in District 211 students is a good use of time,” sophomore are never allowed to download Spencer Burkhalter said. However, the incoming fresh•Joshua Irvine their own apps. At the end of last school year, men class will not have their iPads teachers and division heads met locked for their entire high school he incoming freshman class with help desk assistants to discareer. Freshmen will complete will not be able to download cuss what apps they would possia course on Schoology that will non-educational applications bly like to use. From there, those open up opportunities for them to to their iPads. apps have been pre-downloaded download apps as sophomores. “This was meant to be a more purposeful and edu- onto the freshmen iPads. “During the school year if a cational approach, not a punishment,” associate prin- teacher wants to add a new app they will just have to cipal of instruction Ron Kiolbassa said. “We want to meet with us and we can add the app for them,” Males teach students how to properly use this device, before said. Administrators hope this change will promote a they start playing with things they don’t understand.” Upperclassman believe that this is a self-control is- more effective approach to iPad usage. “We would sue. “The best students are those who want to learn, so love for students to self-advocate and self-control, but they shouldn’t have a problem deleting a potentially that solution sounds better than the reality. We need to first teach students what the iPads are for before we let distracting app,” senior Cole Rodgers said. “Being allowed to download apps makes us respon- the leash out,” Kiolbassa said.

Hersey naming cause of controversy Continued from page 1 John Hersey was overcome with emotion at the sight of the new school; he later told Martin it “meant more to him than his Pulitzer Prize.” Hersey strode into his school with Barbara and Jack Martin in tow. The luncheon, where Hersey talked one-on-one with students, was a massive success. “By the end of the day, kids were walking through the halls singing the Hersey song,” Martin said. The dedication took place one day after, on Nov. 10, 1968. Following the luncheon and ensuing dedication, Hersey wrote Martin a letter of thanks. “The experience of these last two days in Arlington Heights are still with me and will be forever,” the author wrote. Hersey returned once every four years to the school until his death in 1993. Martin continued to work in District 214 until accepting a job at Northern Illinois University. Now retired, he lives nearby. And, of course, John Hersey High School continues on.

Features

August 16, 2017

Hersey leaves behind lasting legacy Katherine Wiemold A small writer that made a big impact in the history of journalism, John Hersey left his mark on the world. Yet, some know him only as the author of the book, “Hiroshima,” as a required freshman book. “I only ever knew that John Hersey wrote the book Hiroshima,” senior Eric Criswell said. While writing Hiroshima, Hersey started as just another field reporter on his way to Japan to report on the devastating atomic bomb when someone handed him a book, Thornton Wilder’s, “The Bridge of San Luis Rey.” The book followed the stories of five separate people who each died when a bridge collapsed. Hersey saw an opportunity to report on the people of the targeted cities rather than the statistics or philosophy behind the event. “I have looked up John Hersey before, but I didn’t get very far because I got distracted. I looked him up freshman year when we read ‘Hiroshima’ because I wanted to know more about him,” sophomore Jillion Davis said. The way Hersey reported much reflected his personality. A son of two missionary workers, Hersey was always vocal on the rights and wrongs of the world. In his dedication speech to this school, he was clear that naming a building after him would Men on Bataan, 1942 not stop him from speaking Into the Valley, 1943 out on what mattered to him. “The very naming of this A Bell for Adano, 1944 school for me- bespeaks, Hiroshima, 1946 a gamble you’ve taken on me. I trust you don’t ever The Wall, 1950 have occasion to regret it. I The Marmot Drive, 1953 should give notice here and now that I shall go on writA Single Pebble, 1956 ing about controversy must The War Lover, 1959 lie in the heart of the truth,” Hersey said. The Child Buyer, 1960 Until his death in 1993 Here to Stay, 1963 Hersey spoke out on issues such as censorship White Lotus, 1965 and other issues relating to Too Far To Walk, 1966 the freedom of writers. In a Under the Eye of the Storm, 1967 interview with The Correspondent in 1968 he spoke The Algiers Motel Incident, 1968 out on such problems, “You cannot hide reality from the Letter to the Alumni, 1970 intelligent young. If you The Conspiracy, 1972 sensor their understanding My Petition for More Space, 1974 of the outside world it can only lead to distortion. CenThe Walnut Door, 1977 sorship boomerangs and Aspects of the Presidency, 1980 creates an opposite effect.” Hersey wrote several The Call, 1985 novels depicting war life, his book “A Bell for AdaBlues, 1987 no” covered the Allied ocLife Sketches, 1989 cupation of a Sicilian town during World War II. The Fling and Other Stories, 1990 book won the Pulitzer Prize Antonietta, 1991 in 1945. By the end of its release year in 1944, the Key West Tales, 1994 book had sold 125,000 copies.

Books by John Hersey

•Correspondent Archives

ohn Hersey tours the school named after him. This is J an example of his continued involvement in the education of students at his school.

His influence spreads far beyond journalism, high school, and social politics. Hersey was the driving force behind the childhood classic “The Cat and the Hat.” “Why Do Students Bog Down on First R?” was an article printed in May 1954 for LIFE magazine that questioned the literacy of young children. Friends since the war, Hersey reportedly challenged Dr. Seuss to write a 225 word primer saying, “write me a story that firstgraders can’t put down!” His most important issue, that really came to heart after a school was named after him, was education. “Education is not just filling ones head with facts, getting right answers, and learning to take tests. Education means to learn how to think for oneself, to experience beauty for oneself, and to choose one’s own actions. This, is in addition to developing skills for dealing with problems and learning ways in which to look at the world,” Hersey said in an interview for The Correspondent in 1968. His goal was for to gain a more treasured world through education. In his dedication speech said, “I would suggest... that we try to zero in on honesty, the directness, the creative energy of our young people, their burning desire not simply to mouth words but to work and sacrifice and protest and then work again to achieve a more decent, more rational, more just, more humane, more peaceable world.”

Faith Ottery was the fist editor of The Correspodent from 1968 to 1970.

“Even still in my job, I have such a reputation. I just say, I have a journalism background, I used to be an editor, this is why I have eyes that pick up every little thing. I think that ability to read things in a way that actually makes certain the logic is there, that all came out of my journalism background. It still does have a foundation that has an impact on my life.” To view our new series follow us on Instagram @Hersey_Corre or like us on Facebook.

•Katherine Wiemold

In Depth

August 16, 2017

Exploring o

Iconic sculpture stands tall Caroline Stiefbold

Occupying the back of the school is the “Naked Man.” Over thirty-five years after its creation, the statue is a “famous” school landmark. To those outside of the school community, the idea of a statue depicting a naked man at a school may seem peculiar. “I mean it’s there. Sometimes when I walk by I remember it’s there, but it doesn’t bother me or anything,” senior Asia Solomianko said. The sculpture was originally intended to be placed at the front of the school, but was instead moved to the courtyard. According to an editorial in the Oct. 8, 1981 issue of The Correspondent, it was moved in fear of “vandalism and community disapproval.” Eventually, the “Naked Man” found his current home in the back next to door 28. “It seems like it’s in a spot where we’re trying to hide it, as if it’s not appropriate or not taken seriously. If it’s a statue then it should be respected, and that includes putting it in a place that shows we’re proud it’s there and not afraid to show it,” Solomianko said. The statue, created by Theodore. T. Gall, Jr., is based on the book “The Wall,” written by the school’s namesake, John Hersey. The novel focuses on the April 1943 Warsaw Ghetto Jewish Uprising. The “Naked Man” himself is meant to be a “man walking through a wall as if nothing could stop him.” Gall’s described his goal for the sculpture in the Sept. 15, 2006 as “to instill something in you that would make you want to overcome something” or “at the very least, make you think.” With this much meaning put into the creation of the “Naked Man,” students tend to pass by it without much thought. “The fate of the statue was that nobody really cares about it,” former English teacher Dan McDonnell said, in the Sept. 15, 2006 issue of The Correspondent.

•Alyssa Kuncheria

he “Naked Man” serves as a landmark T at the back of the building and a staple of the school landscape. The statute Check out stories from all 50 volumes of The Correspondent in the “Golden Years” segment on

“Why they chose John Hersey as the namesake” – sophomore Sam Sobczak

August 16, 2017

In Depth

our Legends

Students take pride in school history, knowledge Kayleigh Padar Any school that has been around for as long as ours is bound to have interesting history. But, students’ opinions may differ on how knowledgeable we should be on our school’s fun facts. While some might believe that we should be ready to answer any question about the school, others may believe that we have no reason to educate ourselves on school background. “To an extent, yes, it is rather important to know the history behind our school since the individual known as John Hersey, led a busy life and accomplished different achievements through it,” senior Catherine Spann said. Our school has 49 years of rich, interesting, and sometimes amusing history that students can read up on. For example, many might not guess that The Correspondent used to be called The Endeavor for two issues, until it traded names with the yearbook. The school has no windows because it was the first in the district to have air conditioning, and that was the trade off. The colors are brown and orange because everyone was a fan of the Cleveland Browns at the time. “It’s nice to know the history of a school because having that knowledge, whether it be how it was built or historic events, can help a student take pride in their school and feel more connected to the environment they’re learning in,”

senior Erin Loken said. Despite thinking that historical knowledge is beneficial, some believe that it shouldn’t be required. “I don’t feel it’s especially influential in terms of enhancing an education so while it may be beneficial it’s relatively negligible in regards to a schools value as a whole,” senior Erin Loken said. Some students know various facts that they’ve learned through years of attending classes, from teachers’ •Alyssa Kuncheria stories, older siblings’ rumors, and other word tudents can research about a variety of interesting of mouth methods. tidbits about the history of our school, including how “I know that, the high different places in the building were named. school mascot is called dent’s various staffs have documented history Nanook. The school scene in ‘Nightmare on Elm Street’ was filmed since the day that the school opened in 1968. Copies of these documents can be found in both at John Hersey,” Spann said. Students can learn about school history in 118 and 122 in the English wing. In addition, more ways than just by paying attention to sto- lots of information can be found simply by ries in class. The Endeavor and The Correspon- googling our school or its namesake.

Facilities honor influential staff members Ken Carter gym carries its name to honor a dedicated figure in the school’s history: Ken Carter. Carter impacted Hersey with his efforts for the athletic program and ongoing support for all events at the school. Carter was here from 1968-1994 and worked as an athletic director. He was the only athletic director in the building because there were no female sports teams. It was only fitting that he was honored for all of his efforts with the recognition of his name on the gym. “It is important that we can honor and recognize the carter gym after Ken Carter who shows leadership and pride that carries on with Hersey for many years,” sophomore Ashlyn Park said.

•Marie Bechtoldt

Hersey’s Titre room is named after former and first ever associate principal Peter Titre. Titre held the nickname, “Mr. Huskie.” Everything regarding the construction and planning of the building was overseen by Titre and it was his idea to build a multipurpose room, now named after him. Titre was not only involved in the construction of the building, he was also very dedicated to the students and the well-being of the school. He appeared at school events suited up in a bright orange jacket and showed endless support for everything regarding the school. “It seems fit to honor a man who was behind the construction and planning of the building and to have his name for everyone to see everyday because without the his hard work and dedication, our high school wouldn’t be what it is today,” junior Rebecca Burke said.

•Marie Bechtoldt

“How long Hersey has been around”

•Lauren Theisen

“How the gyms got their names”

1968

man – freshBirch Danny

Ever since 1968, a year after the school was founded, Roland R. Goins has been an important part of the school. As the founding principal of the school, Goins was the one who got to hire the school’s first staff with many of them staying at the school for quite some time. As a big sports fan all throughout his life, there wasn’t much question when it came to what the football stadium should be named or who it should be named after. Goins’ time at the school is not only remembered because of the stadium named in his honor, but also by the extended amount of time he spent as a principal here. Goins worked for 17 years at the school before he worked as a director of special education for the district and then retired shortly after in 1986.

“How the stadium got named” – sophomore Michelle Weber

omore – sophWetzel Lizzy

Opinions

SPEAK UP

((((

Lollapalooza celebrates welcoming community Gracie Scannell

Lollapalooza, the popular music festival that takes place in Grant Park annually in the first few weeks of August, is a lot more than what is seen on the surface. Looking from the perspective of someone who’d never attended this music festival, going in, I was expecting a pretty messy scene. I had heard from newscasts, my parents, and parents of my friends that Lolla was just a place for teens to get trashed and make bad decisions. I was pleasantly surprised, though. Of course, just like every music festival, there were drunk kids and people who were very obviously high. Despite that, though, there was a significant majority that was sober. The people in attendance for the most part showed a passion for the music that I didn’t expect, to say the least. The sense of community and camaraderie was heart warming, and even though it was my first time in attendance, I felt extremely safe. The concept that music festivals are only about making bad choices and getting wasted needs to be taken away. The energy of these festivals, like that portrayed at Lolla, are about community and love for music. It’s important that as teenagers transforming into young adults, we encourage our future children to put more of a value on live music other then the so-called ‘wild experience’ that is music festivals. Large fests like Lolla and many other widelyattended ones such as North Coast music festival and Warped Tour can be a great opportunity to conserve the sense of community that live music brings to fans in large cities like Chicago. is published 10 times a year by the journalism students of John Hersey High School, 1900 East Thomas Street, Arlington Heights, Illinois 60004. Call for advertising rates. Phone (847) 718-4945. The Correspondent welcomes a free exchange of ideas. Letters to the editor may be sent to correspondent@d214.org. Because school officials do not engage in prior review, and the content of The Correspondent is determined by, and reflects only the views of the student staff and not school officials or the school itself, its student editorial board and responsible student staff members assume complete legal and financial liability for the content of the publication. The Correspondent will not publish any material determined by student editors or the student editorial board to be unprotected, that is, material that is libelous, obscene, materially disruptive to the educational process, and unwarranted invasion of privacy, a violation of copyright or a promotion of products or services unlawful (illegal) as to minors as defined by state or federal law. All unsigned editorial area the opinion of The Correspondent staff. Materials in this newspaper are the property of The Correspondent 2016-2017. The Correspondent is a member of numerous press associations. One thousand eight hundred copies are made each issue to be distributed to students during their second hour classes. Editors-in-Chief,

Features Editor

The Correspondent

Katherine Wiemold

Kayleigh Padar

Opinions Editors

Jamie Anderluh

Editors-in-Chief, CorrespondentLive Joshua Irvine

Trey Schmidt Nathan Kim

Caroline Stiefbold

In Depth Editors

Editorial Board

Marie Bechtoldt

Gracie Scannell

Entertainment Editors

Jennifer Lechowski Lauren Theisen

News Editors

Quinn Cunningham Claire Dwyer

Heidi Freitag

Grace Garlick Joey Ivanov

Sports Editors Katie Lindgren

Tommy Lumsden

Photographers

Alyssa Kuncheria Trent Sprague

Adviser

Janet Barker Levin MJE

Staff Speaks

August 16, 2017

School’s namesake should be embraced by all

As students who go to a school with a remembrance tool for Hersey himself. a name as historically important as John At the front of the school is a case Hersey, it’s important to know a little filled with pictures, books, and pieces more than just how to spell it. Not only of writing that remember his impact. was John Hersey a war correspondent, Because of this, all of the work that the he was school and also a popstaff has ular author done to with many try to prebooks that serve our are highly s c h o o l ’s acclaimed history, it’s today. important As most that the u p p e r students classmen learn to experience embrace it. but may So, even not fully when a pick up forum is on, John long or a H e r s e y ’s book aplife, facts pears not and inall that information teresting, are sprinit’s essenkled all tial in this •Jennifer Lechowski instance to throughout our look at the reshmen follow up on what they learned at the curricubig picHiroshima forum last May by looking at pictures ture, to relum. Starting with related to John Hersey. alize what freshman this man year, studid for our dents attend a forum in which they can country and why he endorsed a great take an in-depth look at the book “Hiro- school that is named after him–a school shima” and the book’s author. that is known both in its academic Now, with that author being John achievements and athletic department. Hersey, it seems almost fitting that we This is not true just for Hersey, though; tune into not only what’s happening in many schools in our nearby districts are the book but also to how this must have also named after impactful people in our been to experience for the man after society, such as Fremd High School. which our school is named. All students should learn how the In the ARC each year is also a port- place that they spend so much time in folio of pictures and facts for the fresh- came to be and what events acted as the man to observe and experience. foundation for their education. The school itself is also something of

Students come to terms with a confused generation Jamie Anderluh Across 50 volumes, it’s easy to feel increasingly disconnected from the way we were. As high school students of “the Digital Age” (or whatever cliché proves to be popular), we’re barely even sure of our generation. We’re often labeled (incorrectly, might I add– though there is some gray area) as millennials. We’re surrounded by generalizations about the way we are. We love our phones. We can’t communicate. We can’t hold a job. We’re passionate. We consume ethically. We want to make a difference. To summarize, it’s complicated. Amidst all of these generalizations–of which all could very well be pointed at the wrong baffled group of kids–it can be challenging to find our niche in the world. It’s not that we want our elders to tell us who we are. It’s that we want the freedom to discover it without feeling alienated. And when we’re only ever associated technological stereotypes, it can feel a bit limiting. Let me explain. For many of us, it’s not uncommon to be approached with the declaration, “You Millennials!” or “Back when dinosaurs roamed the earth, we actually spoke to each other!” This creates two problems. First: we’re arguably not even millennials. Second: what’s stereotyped becomes reality. And by that I mean to say that perhaps the reason why many of us are used to a certain level of technology (and a

certain type of communication) is because it’s all we’re ever associated with. It seems our generation is in somewhat of an identity crisis. It can be exhausting to attempt to connect with Hersey students from 40-someyears ago; in fact, it’s often those very individuals who stereotype us in a way that leads to such confusion. Perhaps we need to step away from the sweeping statements and tired clichés. Whether or not we’re millennials, we’re individuals. And however much we’ve changed in 50 volumes, we’re not a stereotype. In a Hersey classroom, there’s the student who despises social media, the introvert who would struggle to communicate even if phones weren’t in the picture, and the extrovert who thrives through any medium. Regardless, they’re all individuals. As students, we have to remember that stereotypes persist. We have to look past them, considering ourselves within our own social context. And in 50 volumes of The Correspondent, it’s important to note that there’s just been individuals, attempting to sort through the messy, inexplicable world of high school. Back then, the students complained about the same thingsthat we do (the parking lots, the lack of windows, etcetera), and they wanted to make the same connections. They were confused, just like us.

Entertainment

August 16, 2017

Kesha comes back with feminist rock Grace Garlick After nearly four years of a highly anticipated return, pop artist, Kesha, has finally restored her place in the music industry with three new releases: “Praying”, “Woman”, and “Hymn”. “She opened her new album with amazingly raw and bold songs that have excited me for where she’ll take us next. In general, I love her new image and the development she’s made as an artist,” junior Tiga Gritzmacher said. T h e m a i n reason for her absence has been her legal dispute with former producer Dr. Luke. Since 2014, accusations built towards him regarding sexual assault along with physical and emotional abuse. Despite the legal battles she’s endured, Kesha has stayed active on stage and in the media. She made an appearance on the television show “Jane The Virgin” and formed a band known as “Kesha and The Creepies”; the band went on tour performing country covers of her own hit singles. In addition to this, she managed to release one song in collaboration with Zedd titled “True Colors”. Kesha has also remained present in activism for the LGBT+ community and animal rights. In past years, Kesha has been known to carry the image of the careless party girl she created in her first chart topper, “Tik Tok”, but the release of her new music surprised audiences with a different image and sound. “Praying” was co-written with producer Ryan Lewis and was the first release for her third studio album, “Rainbow”, and was the initial song that sparked flame throughout her patient fans. “Praying” touched fans with its emotional lyrics and symbolic music video sewed together

Restaurant becomes students’ ‘Flavorite’

with the impressive and surprising vocal range Kesha has never showed before. Because of the song’s gospel tone and soulful vocals, it displayed a new sound and image that surprised many listeners. “I truly think she found herself through religion and what she went through with Dr. Luke. This song shows she has moved forward in her career, allowing it to make her a better person. It says she still hopes he is at his best even though he took that from her,” sophomore Becca Frye said. Soon after this song’s circulation of YouTube’s trending list, Kesha added another song, “Woman”, to join it. “Woman’s” unique sound comes from its combination of country, R&B, and pop. “I don’t think ‘Woman’ should be criticized. While it’s different from ‘Praying’, she used her experience to find strength in herself as a woman and used two different methods to express the same message,” Gritzmacher said. Last but not least, her fourth single after her release of “Learn To Let Go” was •Grace “Hymn”. Garlick These songs, being the debut of a new and long-awaited Kesha album, have triggered excitement in music listeners. “I’m interested to see where she goes with her new sound, especially religion-wise because it’s nothing like her old music. Most people remember her for ‘Tik Tok’ and ‘Timber’, but she has changed herself and deserves her place,” Frye said. Kesha’s new album is expected to be a rebirth for her music as well as her image, and the music she has returned with proves to be worth the wait.

Sarahah app backfires

As exciting as the night life in Arlington Heights can be, it can be a shocker that most students are desperate for new dining experiences. One of these new hot spots is a place called ‘My Flavorite Place.’ With interior resembling a Hawaiian theme and an outdoor seating area, it is a perfect spot to hang with friends. Giving customers a decent amount of shaved ice and giving them an option of three flavors, this place is a fun-filled spot for a late night sweet tooth. The experience gives a comfortable feel while still having an open area to enjoy ice with friends on a hot summer day. This restaurant is most definitely a dope.

“Sarahah” is a website that can be used through Snapchat that lets anyone send anonymous compliments to anyone else with an account. But honestly, this new program has only enabled strangers to talk negatively about one another without any consequences, having Snapchat stories blown up by people posting “swipe up” in order to send an anonymous message. What makes it worse is that the people that say “swipe up” also put screenshots of what people sent them on their story so everyone else can see too. This app has been causing more negative feelings than positive and has really proven to be a nope.

•Heidi Freitag

•Joey Ivanov

with Joshua Irvine

‘Detroit’ overflows with discomfort

“Detroit” is one of those movies that makes its audience shift in their seats, squint down at their watch or risk a glance at their phone, or look around for a drink they didn’t buy. It’s a movie that strives for discomfort, and achieves it with ruthless efficacy, if not efficiency. It’s a movie that social science teachers with a rebellious streak will try to show to their kids until a mom in the National Police Wives Association gets angry and demands administrators shut it down. And they will, because “Detroit” definitely will make them uncomfortable. The focus is the 1967 12th Street Riots in the titular city, more specifically a violent and terrifying night at the Algiers Motel. On one side of a police lineup are a group of young black men trying to stay alive. On the other side are a trio of Detroit cops who blur the line between racist, sadist and power-drunk. In the middle are a collection of National Guardsmen, State Police, more Detroit cops and a black security guard (John Boyega), the last of whom doesn’t really know what to do but drag who he can out of the murderous line up for a few minutes. It takes a while to get to the motel, though. Screenwriter Mark Boal pads the film with both an extensive introduction and epilogue, which director Katheryn Bigelow delivers through deliberately shaky camerawork cut with archival network news footage and crime scene photos. The introduction borders on unnecessary; establishing the origin of the rioting does little more than divert the film’s focus, though Bigelow manages to cast a critical eye on both sides of the law in those drawn out minutes. The epilogue, slightly more valuable, serves to deliver a measure of much needed catharsis, but it’s an eyedropper out of an ocean. Much of that need from relief comes from the leader of the psychotic squad of patrolmen, played by Will Poulter. Poulter creates a character that sticks in memory both utterly loathsome and disturbingly recognizable. A babyfaced cop leading two other greasy cohorts, Poulter baits both his victims and audience with moments of judiciousness and almost charm that are quickly undercut by his next moment of brutality. It’s a sickening combination of psychopath and lawmen that somehow manages to maintain complexity. “Detroit’s” vast collection of characters and refusal to limit its scope make it hard to single out any other distinct performances, but special credit goes to Anthony Mackie as a stoic Vietnam vet whose abuse by the cops feels particularly unjust. However Boyega, while advertised extensively, is a side player who departs from the film for a good thirty minutes. It’s especially unfortunate considering his unusual position as a member of the killer cop posse. Bigelow and Boal judge the police and rioters with ease, but can’t seem to figure out this one character. “Detroit” is a very good film, but not one that will make you feel good. Brutal and unrelenting in content and length, it’s not for many, but necessary for all. Check out Josh’s review of the upcoming “The Hitman’s Bodyguard” on

Sports

August 16, 2017

enior captains S lead the team in sprints before

their practice to get in shape for their season. Practice started Monday, August 7.

arsity football players run drills during summer practices in preparation for the upcoming season.

arching band prepares for their halftime show titled “A day in the Jazz Age” features pieces by Louis Armstrong and other 1920s composers.

uniors Vince Carso and Tommy Quirk run a quick drill to get ready for their first game. They play August 25 at 7:30 against Zion Benton at home.

•All photos taken by Trent Sprague Senior Joey Carlson Boys Golf

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Fast Facts

“Our end of the year scramble with JV and the Varsity team is the best because it’s a relaxed and fun tournament, and we play for breadsticks and tater tots.” “Our future of the golf program is very promising all the way down and hopefully we have a chance of making a run this year.”

“The dedication of team to play golf almost everyday during the summer either alone or organizing it is amazing.”

•Trey Schmidt

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Senior Olivia Kusio Swimming

“We have a bonfire every year at the beginning of the season at our coach’s house”.

“We are one big aquatics family with everyone from freshmen to seniors.” “We do Big Sister, Little Sister to make sure everyone feels welcome.”

•Katie Lindgren