PAGE 2 • NEWS PAGE 7 • ARTS PAGE 16 • FEATURES During hybrid learning, Head designer of the Check out reviews of three many teachers have sneaker shop Leaders chicken sandwiches from struggled to find a 1354, alumnus Ellen Ma around Chicago. Find balance where both in- uses her platform to out how factors such as person and distance connect Asian and Black presentation, freshness, learning students remain communities in Chicago crispiness and flavor can engaged in class. through streetwear. make or break the taste. University of Chicago Laboratory High School

1362 East 59th Street, Chicago,U-HIGH Illinois 60637 MIDWAY uhighmidway.com • Volume 97, Number 2 MAY 6, 2021 Editors Pennington to lead student body by AMANDA CASSEL With a relatively low voter EDITOR-IN-CHIEF 2021-22 Student Council turnout this year, do you think sign off This interview took place May 1, Student Council is representative President: Brent Pennington the day after the election, and was of the entire student body? Kennedi Bickham lightly edited for clarity and space. Vice President: Student Council is 23 people year of The extended version is online. Secretary: Peter Stern representing 610 students. There What is your main goal or a Treasurer: Taig Singh is no way in the world that Student couple of your main goals as all- Cultural Union President: Council is going to be able to rep- distance school president. How do you Saul Arnow resent that many people with just plan to put them into action? Cultural Union Vice President: 23 people, which is why I want to by EDITORS-IN-CHIEF My main goal as all-school pres- make sure that Student Council is Katie Baffa Dear Readers, ident is to make it so that Student open to having people who either Fourteen months ago, life Council is capable of accomplish- CLASS OF 2022 didn’t win or just didn’t run at all to changed: from classes to ing a lot and to prove to the rest of President: Zachary Gin come on Student Council and rep- clubs to sports. We experi- the school that Student Council Vice President: Ardith Huner resent that level of just any type of enced many changes to how can do a lot more. idea. Cultural Union: we gather, report and publish The first thing that I want to do There’s no way that I can rep- the U-High Midway. Today, as all-school president is I want Alma Moskowitz, Alina Susani resent every single person, all the for the first time since March to work with the current execu- CLASS OF 2023 students in the student body, and 12, 2020, the Midway will tive board and formulate a general President: Fermi Boonstra there’s no way that even if I were publish its first full printed document or Excel sheet that lists MIDWAY PHOTO BY MALCOLM TAYLOR the rising Senior Class president, Vice President: Graham Robbins edition, continuing a 97-year all the different Student Council NEW LEADERSHIP. Brent I would be able to represent every tradition. “things,” responsibilities, events, Pennington’s goals as all- Cultural Union: single person. I would say that the In a year that was nearly meetings, so that Student Council school president include Akshay Badlani, Maile Nacu best way in order to make sure that completely online, we at the are encouraged to start thinking proving Student Council’s CLASS OF 2024 there is that inclusivity is to open Midway did our best to adapt up Student Council. about the different ways that they ability to solve problems, President: Zoe Nathwani to the ev- can change the school. Many students see Student promoting school spirit and Kaavya Shriram er-changing And then, opening up Student Vice President: Council as a popularity contest circumstanc- Council into something that can increasing communication Cultural Union: or an ineffective organization. es. We pub- be used to greater effect by all and transparency. Adam Cheema, Willow Stern How do you plan on addressing lished an un- students. In freshman year, I was the concerns of these students? precedent- in a club that essentially fund- the second one should be mak- to distance learning? Student Council has a lot more ed amount of raised for other clubs and did re- ing sure that students are being The most important thing that ability to make change than stu- content, five, search on fundraising methods so represented in important changes I can stress is communication dents may imagine. I was able to six or even that it could be shared with other to the school in general. You have and transparency because a lot complete eight separate things this Ella seven days groups. I had originally wanted to a responsibility. I’ve been able to of these decisions are going to be year alone. And when I say things, Beiser a week. We integrate that into Student Council contact people like Ms. Noel and changing on a dime. I can’t prom- it’s important things like connect- posted on and now that I am all school, I’ll try someone from the charter school, ise any specific policy that won’t ing with the charter school, I’m social media and push for that in Student Coun- and they both responded with “of be completely changed by to- starting a sex-ed forum initia- (@uhighmid- cil, so that we can have students course, let’s meet,” and it’s all be- morrow. Because of that, all I can tive organization, I filed bill being way — give who are not on Student Council cause of that fact that I was from say is that what I will try to do passed, a bunch of different things us a follow!) doing things constantly. Lab and I was on the Student throughout the process is make that I was really able to do alone. and expand- In your mind, what effect Council. Because not every sin- sure that students are aware of When it comes to that level of en- ed our au- should Student Council have on gle person at Lab has that ability, meetings, where they can provide gagement, if every single Student dio offerings. the student body? we have a unique responsibility to input, so that students know that Council member was producing We even cre- I’ll say Student Council should make sure that with that power, we these are meetings that are hap- that level of work and was going in ated two new are completely, constantly using it. depth that much, Student Council Amanda have two separate effects. The pening, so that you can give your sections: How do you plan to address the could literally be the most effective Cassel first effect should be general spir- input when it comes to connect- City Life it and happiness promotion. And division in the student body due ing the grades. body at the school. and Health & Wellness. And, during the first week Later start time put up for consideration we returned in person, we by COLIN LESLIE what prompted this.” REPORTER published The initial process of gather- two back-to- In the first weeks of May, the ing information will continue school spe- high school and middle school through the first semester of next will embark on a process to con- school year, according to Dr. Ellis. Nicky cial editions sider adopting a later school start The plan is for Challenge Success Edwards- of the Mid- time, a decision that will require and the advisory teams to recom- Levin way print- ed from our input from all members of the mend the next steps after the first newsroom printer. Lab community, according to As- semester. Despite the volatile condi- sistant Director Carla Ellis. “As I understand it, they’ll talk tions of the year, we are ex- Dr. Ellis and Interim Direc- to people, of course. They’ll look tremely proud of the work we tor David Magill will be reach- at things like transportation have published: in-depth sto- ing out to parents, students, fac- schedules. They’ll look at athlet- ries about substance use, sto- ulty and administrators to join a ic schedules. They’ll look at state ries about the impact of the team dedicated to exploring the requirements for instructional coronavirus on communi- possibility of a later start time. minutes — in addition to gath- ties around the city, break- These team members will work ering information from students, ing news about administra- with representatives from Chal- families, faculty and staff,” Dr. El- tive change. In this paper, you lenge Success, an organization lis said. will find some of the high- that helps schools and families Ninth grader Connor Booth, lights from a year of our staff’s implement policies in school cur- who lives about 45 minutes away exceptional journalism. In ad- riculum and schedule. from Lab, said he would appre- dition to many new stories, While a later start time is a new ciate having extra time to sleep we have included some of our idea in the high school, Dr. El- with a later start time. However, best work from the year to lis said that altering the schedule being on the debate and baseball present to you in the format has been a constant point of con- teams, Connor said pushing the we enjoy most: a print paper. versation at Lab. school day back could cause him It has been an honor and “For a few years now, there have to get home later. privilege to serve as edi- been members of the Lab com- “A lot of times, I’m getting home tors-in-chief for the Midway munity who have asked about a sometime around 7 to 8,” Connor this year. We look forward later start time because the re- said. “If school is pushed back lat- MIDWAY ILLUSTRATION BY ALINA SUSANI to seeing where the Midway search shows that adolescents er I’d probably be getting home BRIGHT AND EARLY. From May through the first semester of goes next. need more sleep,” Dr. Ellis said. later than that, which would defi- the 2021-22 school year, members of the Lab community will work “One way to do that is to have a nitely affect my ability to do work with Challenge Success to consider a later school start time. later starting time and so that’s on a normal day.” THURSDAY, MAY 6, 2021 2 • NEWS U-HIGH MIDWAY • UNIVERSITY HIGH SCHOOL, CHICAGO To maintain equity, teachers go extra mile Teachers work to include students in class, online by NICKY EDWARDS-LEVIN EDITOR-IN-CHIEF When hybrid learning was an- nounced in January, math teacher Julia Maguire began to brainstorm how to give in-person and remote students the best possible expe- rience. Her solution: individual- ly drive to each remote student’s home and drop off class materials for hands-on statistics labs. “It’s not the same as being able to do work in a small group, but I felt like it was a way for them to feel like they were still doing the stuff that I felt was important to the course,” Ms. Maguire said. Despite extraordinary efforts, after more than a month of the hy- brid program, teachers are find- ing it extremely difficult to main- tain equity between in-person and distance learning students in class. Efforts to engage both in-per- son and distance learning stu- dents have drastically increased the workload for teachers. Art teacher Sunny Neater said she is essentially creating two lesson plans for each class period. “Every day, I’m trying to come up with something that will be in- MIDWAY PHOTO BY ELLIOTT TAYLOR teresting and engaging and rele- BRIDGING THE GAP. Science teacher Francisco Javier Saez teaches to a mix of in-person and virtual students. “By protecting the vant that students are able to do Zoomers I’m having the video though the iPad, that has the video so you can see what I’m writing on the board,” Mr. Saez said. at home that’s still tied into the bigger picture of our lesson,” Ms. diate feedback,” Ms. Maguire said. learning are engaged in class dis- that the differences between dis- As a remote teacher, Ms. Teref Neater said, “and for students who “That is something I’m still strug- cussions, tance learning and in-person stu- hoped she could make her dis- are in person, what elements of gling with, because you get in front “The people that are in the room dents was noticeable, even when tance learning students feel that that lesson can we use materials of students, and you walk around, are more engaged in discussions she taught at home. they were getting an equal experi- for, that we really only have access and you talk to them, and you in- than they were when it was ful- “I was conferencing with an ence. to here at school.” teract with them, and then all of ly remote, so that’s been good be- in-person student in a breakout “Having been remote, going in Ms. Maguire said that in order to a sudden you remember, maybe cause I actually have slightly more room, and I could hear the oth- person I’ll be much more aware allow remote students to not feel don’t walk away from your com- people talking,” Mr. Wildeman er students talk in the classroom, of that side of it,” Ms. Teref said. totally left out, she has to curb her puter.” said, “but the ones that are remote and it just made me so happy,” Ms. “I know it’s so easy to be intoxi- instincts to work directly with stu- Brian Wildeman teaches Art that don’t talk as much are able to Teref said. “Were they working on cated by people when you’re in dents. History, a standard lecture- and just sort of not talk as much.” their essay that whole time? May- the room, but it’s really very much “The natural thing about teach- discussion-style course. He said English teacher Maja Teref be not, but they wanted to com- on my mind, you know, to strike a ing is you walk around the room, he needs put in extra work to make taught remotely for the first five municate with each other, and balance between the two student you look at work, you give imme- sure his students on distance weeks of hybrid learning. She said they were able to.” groups.” BRAVE conference to be May 12 Families unite around by CLARE O’CONNOR REPORTER anti-racist advocacy Students can sign up for this by WILLIAM TAN year’s Becoming Racially Aware REPORTER “ We hope to build a strong and Valuing Ethnicity conference With over 140 families from coalition with the affinity that will take place on May 12 both the Laboratory Schools and groups that are at the Lab Hyde Park, the new group Fami- through Zoom. School, the parent, student, The BRAVE conference is a full lies for Antiracism is dedicated to day focused on exploring racial creating an inclusive community and educator affinity and ethnic identity through dis- where families can come together groups, to really have cussions, workshops and input and advocate for anti-racism. this united front around from guest speakers. This year, the “We hope to build a strong co- conference’s theme is understand- alition with the affinity groups anti-racism and thinking ing and overcoming internalized that are at the Lab School, the par- critically about how e can and generational racism within ent, student and educator affini- contribute to make things ourselves, others and society. ty groups, to really have this unit- at Lab even better than they In previous years, the confer- ed front around anti-racism and ence had limited the number of at- thinking critically about how we are now.” tending students to facilitate more can contribute to make things — BONNIE KANG intimate discussions between BRAVE WEBSITE at Lab even better than they are speakers and students. However, RACIAL AWARENESS. Attendees of the BRAVE conference will now,” Bonnie Kang, Lab parent Others are involved with the this year, there is no student cap discuss topics including pop culture and recent news events. and member of the group, said. Monday marches on the Mid- due to the online setting. The group has already held two way, protests organized by Lab art “The theme keeps becom- ant things.” dents. This year’s topics will in- open forum meetings in the win- teacher Allison Beaulieu to get the ing more relevant. Just looking at Both Katie and Mr. Stripling em- clude Generation Z pop culture in ter, and members are using the Lab community involved in fight- what’s happened in the past few phasized that the conference cen- workshops such as “The Problem feedback to refine future discus- ing for their rights. The marches weeks, it’s clear that there needs to ters around student conversation With ‘Hot Cheeto Girls’” and re- sions and ways to connect. begin every Monday at 3:30 p.m. at be a conversation about this stuff,“ with the speakers and with each cent events in workshops such as For instance, many families the corner of 60th Street and Stony ninth grader Katie Williams said. other. “Race, The Election, and The In- wanted spaces for dialogue, so Island Avenue. Katie is one of 13 students on “BRAVE isn’t like any other di- surrection” and “Homophobia and members of FAR are looking to “As FAR members, we want to be the BRAVE committee who has versity event that I’ve seen at the Transphobia Within Communities hold lunchtime or evening chats supportive of [the Monday march- worked to plan the conference this school,” Katie said. “We really give of Color.” or book discussions on literature es], and we’ve been out with her. year. Katie said that she applied to students the power to learn stuff While the topics discussed in related to racial issues. It’s basically a walk along the Mid- join the planning committee this from each other and sort of learn the conference more directly im- “We have a group of families way and all the way back,” said Ms. year because of her experience from themselves. We are the ones pact students of color, the com- who are interested in holding the Ozik. participating in the conference impacted by racism in the hall- mittee encourages all students to Lab School accountable for the di- As FAR moves forward in plan- while she was in middle school. ways and the videos and news sto- participate. versity action plan that they’ve put ning for bigger and more inclusive “I’m always in awe that we have ries that pop up every week. I feel “It’s a great space to talk and di- together. That’s really beautiful,” events, it hopes to encourage more a group of students that can sit like we deserve to talk about that alogue and listen to perspectives said Sam Ozik, Lab parent and Lab families to join its cause. down, build their ideas and real- and be part of the work to make that you don’t have access to,” Mr. founding member of the group. Ms. Ozik said, “We’d love to have ly put something together,” The- some progress.” Stripling said. “Issues of race and FAR is also engaging in protest. as many families involved as possi- odore Stripling, the BRAVE com- Mr. Stripling said that the stu- identity impact a lot of people Members staged a sit-in after the ble... we want families to feel they mittee faculty adviser, said. “Their dent committee is uniquely able in our community, so even if you death of Adam Toledo, a 13-year- can be active and join a planning work gives the rest of the school a to select topics and speakers that don’t personally struggle with race, old Little Village boy shot by police committee to help us do some- space to talk about these import- are specifically important to stu- it is important to be educated.” March 29. thing really big and exciting.” THURSDAY, MAY 6, 2021 U-HIGH MIDWAY • UNIVERSITY HIGH SCHOOL, CHICAGO NEWS • 3 Science lab activities build understanding Teachers stress the importance of lab experiences by BERK OTO MANAGING EDITOR After a year of distance learning with few laboratory experiences in science classes, science teachers say that such experiences are too valuable to eliminate permanent- ly, even as returning to the dou- ble-period arrangement restricts the schedule for some students. Because of the double period, students typically must devote a quarter of their schedule to sci- ence during their first two years of high school to satisfy U-High’s graduation requirements. Chemistry teacher Zacha- ry Hund argues that lab experi- ences are neces- sary for students to fully under- stand abstract concepts. “To do science is to understand Zachary science, to un- Hund derstand science is to do science,” Dr. Hund said. “When you’re doing a lab and something goes wrong, MIDWAY PHOTO BY ELLIOTT TAYLOR that’s where the learning happens. LAB WORK. Juniors Edward Christensen and Eli Frank work on a double replacement reaction lab for chemistry class on April 6. All of a sudden, the theoretical The goal of the lab was to observe products precipitate out of solution after mixing certain compounds. Eli said, “It’s a lot better than concepts you hear in class play out watching the video because you actually get to see if it has a reaction, and on a video it’s really hard to tell.” right in front of you, and you have to learn to confront that.” ready. You can’t leave it until the Even though Ms. Williams be- science,” he said. “For some stu- “ Labs help with the whole Biology teacher Elizabeth Hubin next day or next week because it’ll lieves colleges will largely ignore dents, it doesn’t feel worth it to believes labs help prepare stu- cool down. Labs are live and ac- the 2020-21 pause in labs due to take the science class they’re inter- experiential learning dents for real-world situations tive, so they take more of a time in- the circumstances of hybrid and ested in because they have to sac- part,” he said. “If there’s both within and outside the sci- vestment.” distance learning, Dr. Hund be- rifice a whole other period when something I don’t ences. Junior Andrew Swinger, who lieves many students missed out they could take another arts or his- understand in class, I can “It’s important for students go- has taken three lab-based science on an important part of the sci- tory class.” ing into science to feel comfortable classes, also sees value in labs and ence curriculum this academic Ms. Williams encourages stu- learn for myself in real setting up and executing experi- is disappointed they weren’t able year. dents to take the courses they are time with help from the ments,” Dr. Hubin said, “and it’s al- to be included in the distance “I’m not worried, but I am sus- interested in rather than bending teacher when I need it. It’s so important for all students to de- learning curriculum. pecting to see some students who to social pressures among the stu- definitely something I miss velop skills that are very important “Labs help with the whole expe- move on to more advanced class- dent body. in all aspects of college — and life, riential learning part,” he said. “If es next year with a weaker founda- “I hear about this pressure a lot, from last year.” like working with peers, being re- there’s something I don’t under- tional knowledge and less confi- to take three years of lab scienc- — ANDREW SWINGER sponsible, analytical thinking and stand in class, I can learn for my- dence,” he said. es,” she said. “It’s true that a lot of contributing to a group.” self in real time with help from the Although Andrew agrees that schools recommend this, but it al- According to Dr. Hubin, a dou- teacher when I need it. It’s defi- labs are an important part of the so depends on what you want to provide students with the oppor- ble period is necessary to conduct nitely something I miss from last science curriculum, he sympathiz- study. A student who likes the arts tunity to take lab sciences without many of the labs that represent the year.” es with concerns that the double or social sciences is probably not a double period. staples of her curriculum, espe- Because of the depth students period limits student choice. going to apply for engineering at He said, “I feel like that would cially in her AT Biology class. get from U-High’s lab-based sci- “I get that a lot of people who MIT. They can make their courses reach everyone at their interest “Many of the labs take multi- ence curriculum, college coun- don’t want to spend a quarter of rigorous in the areas they’re inter- level. Students who want more ple classes just because the labs selor Sharon Williams believes their schedule on science feel like ested in and apply to the appropri- in-depth knowledge can take the themselves take time,” she said. college admissions officers give they’re forced to because of the ate schools.” double period, and others who are “If you’re heating something in a U-High applications a stronger necessary science credits and the Andrew hopes that in the future, less sure can still take a lab science beaker, you have to wait until it’s read. social pressure to take a third lab a middle road can be reached to without sacrificing their interests.” Robotics team expands activities to Beyond building competitively: volunteering, inspiring community by CAROLYN GAO According to Lorelei, who REPORTER learned code like Javascript and “ We’re looking to really With the competitive building Python early on, her passion for branch our outreach to season coming to a close, the ro- robotics has inspired her to keep the community and make botics team has been focusing volunteering. an impact in the school, on outreach to inspire others and “It’s so nice being able to share share their passion for STEM. something that you personally UChicago, and give back to Some team members have been love, with especially kids, who al- those who have provided.” volunteering at Girls Who Code, so love that thing, and maybe get — ALP DEMIRTAS an afterschool program offered at them interested in coding in the Lab, where they help mentor girls future,” Lorelei said. in grades 3-5. Teresa Serangeli, one The team also directed the 3D our outreach to the community of the organizers of GWC, reached Modeling workshop for ArtsFest, and make an impact in the school, out to the robotics team last year where participants used the Tin- UChicago, and give back to those and offered the outreach opportu- kercad to make blueprints. who have provided,” Alp said. nity. According to Alp Demirtas, cap- They are planning on work- A few people have continued tain of team Cache Money, the ing with Metrosquash, a program to volunteer with GWC during team had started without much aimed to help Chicago students in the pandemic, including Lorelei prior knowledge on the topic and need with a combination of aca- Deakin, who helps out weekly. Lo- had to figure out how to make the demics and squash. relei, the team’s creativity captain, workshop a success. Both Lorelei and Alp each em- said that previously activities had Design captain Sharyq Siddiqi phasized the importance of shar- been largely based on setting up made around 20 YouTube videos ing their knowledge and love for and showcasing a robot, but this to help teach the team after learn- robotics and other STEM areas year volunteering has been geared ing the material himself. with those around them as a way more toward helping the girls on The team also hopes to work of showing gratitude for its impact MIDWAY PHOTO PROVIDED BY ALP DEMIRTAS personal projects. with outside organizations or on their lives. FIT AND FUN. Following his character, junior Alp Demirtas The projects include design- places, such as local senior homes, “[Outreach is] something that’s plays RETRO-FIT, a game that fuses typical fitness challenges ing quizzes to ask questions like hospitals, and educational pro- really important to us,” Alp said, with adventure, on April 21. The game was one of the few to ad- “What kind of donut are you?” or grams to spread their passion for “and honestly it’s the best thing we vance to the semifinals of the FIRST Global Innovation Challenge. programming games on Scratch, robotics and give back. can do to give back to the commu- an online tool for coding. “We’re looking to really branch nity.” THURSDAY, MAY 6, 2021 4 • ARTS U-HIGH MIDWAY • UNIVERSITY HIGH SCHOOL, CHICAGO English teacher brings translation passion On arriving at Lab four years Maja Teref now ago, Ms. Teref was surprised to “ We’re a STEM school, but find a hole in the curriculum: the we need our students to advises literary school had few opportunities for be more well-rounded, students to discover literary trans- right? So you cannot be a translation club lation. “We’re a STEM school, but we one-trick pony. You need by CAROLINE HOHNER need our students to be more to develop your mind in all ARTS CO-EDITOR well-rounded, right? So you can- kinds of different ways.” Only about an estimated 3% not be a one-trick pony,” Ms. — MAJA TEREF of world language literature gets Teref said. “You need to develop translated into English: a number your mind in all kinds of different well-known in literary translation ways.” of 20th century Yugoslav writer circles as the “three percent prob- Ms. Teref decided to change Branko Ve Poljanski, which mim- lem.” that. She founded Ouroboros Re- ic the stylings of German philoso- Students of English teacher Ma- view, a student-run literary trans- phers while mocking the financial ja Teref, a longtime literary trans- lation journal named after the system of his country. lator, may recognize this statistic endless cycle of translating and re- While her current project comes and recall how her eyes light up vising. The first edition of Ourob- with unique difficulties, given that with excitement as she incorpo- oros Review included nearly 100 it was printed with descending rates the disparity into her hard translations from a wide range of page numbers and on invoice pa- sell on why they should begin students. pers, Ms. Teref said that one of the translating. According to Ms. Teref, the most common challenges faced by Through her work in and out- members of the Ouroboros Re- literary translators is working with side of Lab, Ms. Teref is working to view even continued pursuing lit- the poets themselves. broaden the field of literary trans- erary translation this past sum- “Some of them, you know, have lation by sharing the passion for mer, meeting weekly on a consis- their own ideas about how to translation she found as a student tent basis. translate, how translation should with her own students. Over the past year, Ms. Teref and happen, and some of them believe Ms. Teref was first introduced to the Ouroboros Review team have it should be very literal,” Ms. Teref translation in the former Yugosla- been working hard, aided by the said. via as part of her coursework ma- University of Chicago’s new liter- Literary translation goes beyond joring in Language and Literature ary translation department, to put direct translation. As Ms. Teref ex- in high school. But her first real ex- out the second issue, which is set plained, part of the joy is self- perience in translation came after to publish in May. exploration through decisions majoring in English in college. Ms. “The students who are part of made on how to translate a word Teref worked as a translator in the the club are learning so much or phrase, like how one word could English department at Radio Yu- about word choices through trans- be translated as cicada, locust goslavia, where she also DJed her lation, how to play with language, or grasshopper, and each choice own music show in English. how to express themselves,” Ms. would hold a different meaning. On coming to the United States Teref said. “By translating and making all to do her graduate work in Ap- Guided by her considerable ex- these choices to cicada versus lo- plied Linguistics at the Universi- perience in the field, Ms. Teref custs versus grasshopper, you’re ty of Illinois at Chicago, Ms. Teref mentors the next generation of lit- actually opening yourself up, be- met Steven Teref, a poet, linguist MIDWAY PHOTO BY MALCOLM TAYLOR erary translators working on the cause the choices that you make and editor who would become ENGLISH EXTRAORDINAIRE. Gesturing to her English 2 class review. are very your own choices,” Ms. her husband. The two soon began on April 30, Maja Teref explains symbolism in “The Great Gatsby.” “She is really supportive and [is] Teref said. “See, right, they come translating poetry from BSC (Bos- Ms. Teref works as a literary translator with her husband and really pushing us to be the best we from you. And there is a reason nian Serbian Croatian) together. as to why you make those choic- advises U-High’s literary translation journal, Ouroboros Review. can be and making sure that we The duo’s work soon began stay on task,” said junior Penelope es that say something about you.” to draw attention. Their second Huang, co-editor-in-chief of Ou- According to Ms. Teref, transla- project, a collection of translated cerns over Ristcović’s writings por- was picked up by The New Yorker,” roboros Review. tors gain insights beyond just that works by Serbian poet Ana Ristović traying outdated feminism, one Ms. Teref said. “And then our oth- Even with teaching, advising the of introspection — there is a much titled “Directions for Use,” may be poem in particular, “Snow in Your er translations of her work were review and living through a pan- deeper benefit. familiar to students who have tak- Shoes,” started drawing attention shortlisted for the National Book demic, Ms. Teref still dedicates “Every subsequent translation en Literary Analysis. to the collection. Circle Award and some other big time to her personal translating offers something new about not Although some of Ms. Teref’s “We were about to abandon the awards. I mean, we really hit it big endeavors. She and her husband just the translator, but the world colleagues initially expressed con- project when ‘Snow in Your Shoes’ with her.” are currently translating the works that we live in.” Modern female music icons empower in unique way for women in the music industry Despite controversial music, stars and reclaiming women’s bodies and sexuality,” Lauren said. “Espe- inspire young women to speak out cially after so many years of men sexualizing us for their own prof- by LUCIA KOURI and given that idolized artists in it.” CITY LIFE CO-EDITOR these genres are overwhelmingly While Alexandra hasn’t seen a In mid-March, millions of peo- male, criticism of these female art- direct impact of their music on ple watched Megan Thee Stal- ists cannot reasonably be separat- herself and peers, she feels that lion and Cardi B dominate a stage ed from gender. having figures like Cardi B and Me- struck by flashing lights and lined “Our generation has been grow- gan Thee Stallion in the public eye with background dancers as they ing up hearing a lot of explic- could lead to long-term shifts in performed their song “WAP” at it songs from men talking about thinking. the 2021 Grammy Awards, leav- women’s bodies, so I think that it’s “I’m not sure what the wide- ing some fans cheering and sing- not a concept that is foreign to us,” spread impact in our generation ing along from their homes, others Kennedi said. “It’s just that peo- would be yet,” Alexandra said, staring in awe at the intense cho- ple don’t expect women to actual- “but I think that even just the con- reography, and some, no-doubt, ly speak up and to say those same troversy surrounding the songs shaking their heads in disapproval. things that male artists have been might cause more people to ques- Mixed feelings have long ac- saying about them.” tion this double standard.” companied the work of female rap Senior Alexandra Nehme has While Kennedi believes pro- MIDWAY ILLUSTRATION BY NICKY EDWARDS-LEVIN artists like Cardi B and Megan Th- also noticed a double standard motion of this music could lead GIRL POWER. Fans of artists like Cardi B and Megan Thee ee Stallion, known for openly and when it comes to female rap art- younger women to feel more em- Stallion have called their music empowering and uplifting. Critics explicitly speaking about their ists, one that stems from the long- powered, it isn’t always this simple. have labeled the music as overly sexually graphic and explicit. sexuality. The effects of these art- lived normalization of explicit lan- “I feel like they’re the female ists’ music have been felt not on- guage with male artists. rappers of our generation, but at ly within the bounds of the mu- “There seems to be a lot more the same time — it’s not ours ex- general because there’s still a lot of is like female power, right?’ I just sic industry, but also in crowds of general controversy surrounding actly,” Kennedi said. misogyny going on in our world,” don’t think it’s taken seriously at younger generations across the some of these songs than I’ve ev- According to Kennedi, this mu- Kennedi said. all.” country, leading many females, er seen when male rappers talk sic is being consumed primarily by Kennedi has noticed that deep- While controversy surround- even in our own school, to reflect about females and their bodies in young people that are still in their er, less identifiable biases reveal ing these female artists will likely on the ever-evolving expectations a similar way,” Alexandra said, “Al- formative years, and is often inter- themselves through the younger not go away any time soon, Lau- of women in modern society. most seems to be more of a casu- preted in ways that defeat the orig- generation’s reaction to songs like ren says their music is still having Recent criticism of Megan Thee al norm.” inal purpose of the music, per- “WAP,” as many find its explicit lyr- a positive impact on many wom- Stallion and Cardi B’s work — par- According to sophomore Lauren petuating pre-existing shame sur- ics embarrassing, or end up dele- en, and this fact alone indicates ticularly for their song “WAP” — Tapper, it’s important that main- rounding female sexuality instead gitimizing the artists themselves. potential for long-term change is indicative of something deep- stream media have space for these of lifting women up. “With Megan, they mostly are surrounding perception of female er than the explicit content of public figures to exist, for reasons “Depending on how they grew not fans of her music, exactly, sexuality. the song itself, according to ju- that go beyond just the music it- up and their values, they might but are fans of her body and her “I truly think it’s inspiring a lot nior Kennedi Bickham. As Kenne- self. feel like, ‘Oh, you know, I’m not look,” Kennedi said. “I just think of young women,” Lauren said, “to di puts it, explicit lyrics have long “I definitely respect and look up supposed to talk about that’ or that they think it’s a joke. Honest- love and embrace their bodies and been a part of what defines rap, to artists who are paving the way they might just be, like, shamed in ly, I think that they’re like, ‘Oh, this sexuality.” THURSDAY, MAY 6, 2021 U-HIGH MIDWAY • UNIVERSITY HIGH SCHOOL, CHICAGO ARTS • 5 Marvel-ous Museum Marvel comics exhibit shares super history of publishing giant by AMY REN REPORTER risp but age-yellowed comics, gently lit by warm lights, hang on the walls of a darkened hallway. At the end is a Cstatue of a superhero, and behind it lurks a costume-covered man- nequin. “Marvel: Universe of Super He- roes” is the Museum of Science and Industry’s new exhibit that delves into the history and making of the Marvel comics and movies, as well various facts about critical artists and superheroes. MIDWAY PHOTOS BY AMY REN Tickets must be purchased in KEEP IT SAFE. A sign asks advance, and as of April 18, they museum guests to interact with are sold out until June. The two- part exhibit closes Oct. 24. the exhibit as usual, but to use Guests must pay an additional styluses rather than bare hands. fee for the exhibit alongside cost Since its falll re-opening, MSI of entrance to the museum: $18 has taken measures against the for adults, $14 for kids and $9 for spread of COVID-19, like limit- members. The exhibit is sold out ing capacity to under 25% of the through July, but tickets are avail- abe through the end of the exhibit. museum’s total capacity and With original comic book pag- requiring face coverings. es, sculptures and many hands-on displays, the interactive exhibit is HANGING OUT. A model of suitable for all ages. Costumes and Marvel’s classic character Spi- props from Marvel’s popular films der-man hangs from the ceil- accompany posters and displays about the origins and histories of ing of the Museum of Science iconic characters. Guests can ex- and Industry’s “Marvel: Uni- plore how they evolved alongside verse of Super Heroes” exhibit. society over more than 80 years Along with colorful sculptures, to find their place in modern pop the exhibit also features origi- culture. nal props, costumes and comic Scattered conveniently through- out the exhibit are digital displays book pages as well as interac- for users to further explore with tive displays. well-chosen videos and images. These displays vary in topic de- social issues like gender, race, reli- not double back. less of vaccination status, and the to encourage physical distancing, pending on the section of the ex- gion and disability. Due to coronavirus restrictions, MSI provides disposable stylus- increase movement and reduce hibit, ranging from time-lapses of MSI has ensured that visiting the the daily capacity of the muse- es to allow guests to interact safe- contact among viewers. A few ex- creators inking comics to profiles Marvel exhibit is fairly safe. Guests um is reduced, and all guests, in- ly with screens and buttons. periences where these measures on superheroes. are encouraged to not linger after cluding members, must reserve Parts of the regular museum are are not easily enforced are current- Legendary comic book creators they are done looking at a part of timed-entry tickets online to en- open or modified. The Brain Food ly closed. like Stan Lee, Jack Kirby and Steve the exhibit, but sometimes it is not ter. Spread throughout the muse- Court is open and vending ma- “Marvel: Universe of Super He- Ditko are honored, and the exhibit possible to stay the recommended um are posters reminding to social chines are available, but food can roes” is an enjoyable exhibit for also looks at how Marvel has been 6 feet apart. However, the design of distance from those not in your only be consumed in designated people of all ages, regardless of influenced by and responded to the exhibit facilitates people to go group and stations with hand san- eating areas. Some exhibits and how much knowledge they have historical events and addressed through it in a linear fashion and itizer. Masks are required, regard- experiences have been modified about Marvel and comics. Netflix series examines14 th Amendment the Constitution to do so. al husband who was dying of ALS. Will Smith stars With Will Smith as the show’s “ Not only does ‘Amend’ After Mr. Arthur died, Mr. Oberge- in new historical host, each episode examines a dif- persuasively illustrate fell dedicated himself to making ferent facet of the amendment’s why the Constitution is so same-sex marriage a civil liberty, series on fight for application to issues like marriage important to civil liberties, and he succeed in 2015. and citizenship. The series inter- However, the emphasis on his- civil liberties sperses interviews from experts it more importantly shows torical events and narratives and eyewitnesses, Ken Burns-style the need for ordinary supplants the fact that the 14th by RYAN CLARK closeups of archival materials, citizens to fight for and Amendment is fundamentally ASSISTANT EDITOR brief animations and monologues a piece of law. While it acknowl- defend those rights.” , Today’s civil liberties concern- of historical figures’ key speeches. edges the debates over the scope ing abortion, same-sex marriage, Instead of a single narrator read- of the amendment, it never takes citizenship and due process have ing text from speeches and letters, them seriously. How are judg- all been determined in no small contemporary actors like Maher- undid progress made against chat- es able to find support for new part by the 14th Amendment — shela Ali and Yara Shahidi deliver tel slavery. rights over time in the same doc- but when was the last time you them in the style of a monologue The real focus of “Amend” is ument? Were these rights always even thought about it? on a soundstage. on the human stories that inter- present in the amendment, or are The new Netflix docuseries, While other historical docu- sect the 14th Amendment. In one courts empowered to reinterpret “Amend: The Fight for America,” mentary series can suffer from scene, the viewer watches a mod- law based on the state of the cur- presents the history of the 14th slow-pacing or general superfi- ern-day descendant of Roger B. rent-day society? Amendment (which guarantees ciality, “Amend” avoids both of Taney apologize to a descendent These fundamental quetions IMDB citizenship, equal protection, and these defects. It keeps experts’ of Dred Scott, in an amazing mo- are not considered, but “Amend” Will A FIGHT FOR CHANGE. due process) in six hourlong ep- commentary the focus while cy- ment of reconciliation that also nonetheless succeeds with its ex- Smith hosts the new Netflix do- isodes and makes a case for the cling through images and mono- displays the show’s vigorous ide- cellent pacing, historical depth cuseries “Amend: The Fight for amendment’s importance to the logues that root the viewer in con- alism. But the emotional climax and showcasing of inspirational America” in a captivating dis- protection of civil liberties. While text. The commentators’ attention comes during the fifth episode, and often heartbreaking stories. play of American lives touched a closer look at the understanding to the complicated nature of his- which recounts the history lead- Not only does “Amend” persua- by the 14th amendment, sup- of the 14th Amendment in a legal tory shines through in its first ep- ing up to the decision that legal- sively illustrate why the Constitu- context might have improved the isode, which details how the 14th ized same-sex marriage, Oberge- tion is so important to civil liber- ported by an in-depth re-tell- show, it excels at telling the stories Amendment was ratified after the fell v. Hodges. The plaintiff, James ties, it more importantly shows the ing of the history of the fight for of how Americans fought for their Civil War, when they consider how Obergefell, tells of his effort to need for ordinary citizens to fight civil liberties. rights and relied on the courts and penal labor and counter-reforms marry John Arthur, his eventu- for and defend those rights. THURSDAY, MAY 6, 2021 6 • ARTS U-HIGH MIDWAY • UNIVERSITY HIGH SCHOOL, CHICAGO Calm, comfort, community: Adults and students discover music of different eras by CLARE O’CONNOR REPORTER “ It’s crazy to hear my English teacher Rachel Niel- students listening to the sen greets her class with mu- same music I did when I sic — sometimes overly loud mu- sic — streaming out through the was still in school. I talk Zoom. While some students roll to them a little about their their eyes, many nod their heads songs.” or mouth a few lyrics in a rare mo- — DEBORAH RIBBENS ment of group unity. A year ago, students would file that I know make me feel ener- into decorated classrooms, talking gized,” Ms. Ribbens said. “It’s al- among themselves while sitting so nice to learn about my stu- down for the period. Now, though, dents through talking about mu- distance learning classes typical- sic. A teacher-student connection ly start with a teacher giving a few is harder now, so it’s really nice.” reminders for everyone to turn Both Ms. Ribbens and Ms. Niel- on their cameras. There’s a silent sen remarked that some of their stretch when teachers click but- students suggest songs that the tons to share their screen while teachers remember from when students fix their hair in their cam- they were younger. Ms. Ribbens eras or simply stare blankly at their said she was surprised yet happy screens — all with a red dash cut- by this musical connection with ting through their microphone her students. Students agree that icon. music is a welcome addition to Efforts from Ms. Nielsen and distance learning. other teachers are helping to form “I think music is totally a way a sense of classroom culture and to bring people together,” soph- community through sharing mu- omore Charlie Benton said. “It’s sic instead of relying on the con- something personal but social, nectors that come naturally while and it works really well online.” MIDWAY PHOTO BY ANDREW BURKE-STEVENSON learning in person. Ms. Nielsen has also included Music is a powerful medium for teachers to communicate and con- In person, teachers have some music into her curriculum. She MUSIC WITH A PURPOSE. control over the environment they said music is helpful in explor- nect with their students during a time of separation. want to create for their students. ing topics she explores in her En- and culture from before all of this.” listening to the same music I did found some of these old songs on Many Laboratory Schools class- glish 1 class. Ms. Nielsen assigned In December, Spotify released when I was still in school,” Ms. Spotify, too, so I add them to play- rooms have posters on the walls her students to explore music that “2020 Wrapped,” a list of the most Ribbens said. “It’s really cool to me lists and stuff,” Charlie said. or particular desk setups meant to mimicked the feel or themes of listened-to songs of 2020, and that I can connect with my stu- Ultimately, students say that guide students toward the intend- the Odyssey. Her Odyssey playlist declared the 1980s as the most dents in this honestly unexpected older music brings a sense of calm, ed feel of the class. includes songs such as “A Sort Of “thrown-back-to decade” of the way.” comfort and community in the “I think a physical space is im- Homecoming by U2”, “Rock And A 2020 listening year. Additionally, Lab students stuck at home are stressful present. portant. What I put on my walls Hard Place by The Rolling Stones” music-streaming services saw a also learning about new music “Because everyone is so isolat- sets the tone for the culture of my and “Come Sail Away by Styx.” spike of decade-themed playlists from their parents. ed all the time, we all just feel so class,” Ms. Nielsen said. “Because “Seeing how different people in- created in March 2020. “I listen to a lot of old jazz now,” lonely, it sounds cheesy, but music we’re online, I’ve lost so much of terpret the book musically is so in- Within the Laboratory Schools Charlie said. “My friend Audrey makes me feel less alone,” Charlie that ability to build a classroom teresting to me,” Ms. Nielsen said. community, students’ apprecia- and I collect vinyl records, you said. “Having that connection with environment.” “I recognize songs and can com- tion of older music is bringing to- know, the big circle ones? We go my dad or with my friends is real- One way Ms. Nielsen has worked pletely see why the student sug- gether teachers, students and par- record hunting online together. It’s ly important, and music is a good to regain that sense of a “class- gested them. It really helps me ents during a time of division. just a really fun thing to do.” way to get that.” room” is by playing music as stu- learn about some of my students.” Many teachers used this trend Charlie shares his record play- “I think old music reminds me dents join the Zoom meeting and Music is a powerful medium when making class playlists to- er with his siblings and parents of when I was younger and things start to turn on their cameras. for teachers to communicate and ward the beginning of the 2020-21 who have been social distanc- seemed a lot simpler,” Ms. Nielsen Deborah Ribbens, a P.E. teach- connect with their students during school year. ing together since the spread of said. “Weirdly, it kind of has the er, also works to energize students a time of separation. Ms. Ribbens includes songs by COVID-19. Charlie’s dad uses a re- same effect on people that nev- and to create a sense of communi- “When I see people bobbing John Lennon, Michael Jackson, cord player to listen to some old er lived through the ’80s or ’90s. I ty. their head to a song at the start of the Back Eyed Peas, Christina Agu- jazz records. Charlie found his think younger people now still feel “I asked my students for song class or have a student mention ilera, The Beatles and B.B. King dad’s music relaxing and has start- that calm, whether it’s from the suggestions and made a play- the music in office hours,” Ms. alongside more modern picks like ed listening to jazz on his own, media, or parents or just the sound list that I stream while we do our Nielsen said, “it makes me feel like Beyoncé and Justin Timberlake. learning more about the style. that used to be popular.” workouts. It’s a lot of upbeat songs I still have some of that connection “It’s crazy to hear my students “I got really into it and now I’ve First published on March 4, 2021. ‘Nomadland’ shows an earnest view of nomadic life by AN NGO functions as a vehicle, giving us looks into ASSISTANT EDITOR the stories of the non-fictional characters Oscar Winning: “I’m not homeless, I’m just houseless,” a from Bruder’s book. “Nomadland” was nominated for six Academy woman says to a teenager she knows. She’s Nearly all the characters but Fern (Fran- Awards: best picture, best actress, best director, just gotten off of her shift at an Amazon ces McDormand) are people playing them- best adapted screenplay, best cinematography warehouse and is hanging out in a sporting selves. and best film editing. It won best picture, best goods store. After the encounter with the Like Fern, the nomads have experienced actress and best director. teenager’s family, who offers her to stay with loss and are trying to cope. them, she retires to her van, which she calls Fern’s friend Linda May, whom she met Directors Cut: Chloé Zhao became the first Vanguard. working at Amazon, tried to convince her woman of color and second woman to win an Though “Nomadland” is considered a to meet her at Rubber Tramp Rendezvous, a Academy Award for directing. , drama/western film, it functions almost as a group of nomads teaching each other how documentary by weaving a fictional charac- to live on the road. Fern was unable to find sell it. She tells the mechanics she can’t sell ter into the stories of real people. “Nomad- another job in the town and decided to drive the van as it’s her home. Because she can’t land” isn’t explicitly political but uses inti- down to the Arizona desert to the nomads. afford to repair it, she goes to stay with her macy to give audiences an earnest look in- Sitting around the campfire, the nomads sister and has to borrow money for the re- to living in the post-recession America of share their stories of loss and healing. pairs. This is the first we hear of her sister, the 2010s. The movie, which was awarded “He told me before he died, ‘Just don’t who lives a settled life with a husband. Zhao Golden Globes for best drama and best di- waste any time, Merle. Don’t waste any shows throughout the movie how Fern and rection of a motion picture, can be streamed time.’ So I retired as soon as I could,” a wom- the nomads are still tethered to society. on Hulu. an said about her coworker on the cusp of “Nomadland” is an honest and beauti- “Nomadland” follows Fern, a widow who retirement who died from liver failure, nev- ful look into the lives of Americans who are lived with her husband in Empire, Nevada, er having been able to use the sailboat wait- looking for an alternative way of living. Zhao where they worked for U.S. Gypsum, but af- ing for him in his driveway. “I didn’t want my highlights the stories of people who are ac- ter the plant was shut down, the town emp- sailboat to be in the driveway when I died. tively trying to make the most of their lives tied along with it. The movie tells the story So, yeah, and it’s not. My sailboat’s out here and redefining what it means to live. PHOTO SOURCE: WE ARE MOVIE GEEKS of how she leaves the town she loved after in the desert.” “It’s like my dad used to say, ‘What’s re- LIFE FROM A VAN. “Nomadland” re- the death of her husband to travel the coun- Yet this freedom isn’t as vast as the stun- membered lives.’ I maybe spent too much of minds people there is no single way of try in her van. ning scenes of the American wilderness Ms. my life just remembering,” Fern said, quot- life. Frances McDormand plays Fern, Based on the non-fiction book “Nomad- Zhou captures. The nomads still live under ing her dead father. who represents the forgotten stories of land” by journalist Jessica Bruder, the film the constraints of modern-day society. “Nomadland” pushes the audience to was adapted by director Chloé Zhao and When Fern’s van breaks down and needs question the way they spend their lives. the nomadic people of the United States. integrates Fern, a fictional character who repairs, she is told it would be best for her to First published on March 8, 2021. THURSDAY, MAY 6, 2021 U-HIGH MIDWAY • UNIVERSITY HIGH SCHOOL, CHICAGO ARTS • 7 Alumna bridges gap between Black Canvas activism: and Asian American communities by AN NGO of streetwear is supposed to be af- ASSISTANT EDITOR fordable, is supposed to be for the s the head designer of Lead- people.” ers 1354, a Chicago-based Ms. Ma sees streetwear as a plat- Asneaker shop, Ms. Ma is us- form where fashion, art and activ- ing her platform to bridging the ism converge. The collaboration gap between Chicago’s Asian with GoodKids MadCity is an ex- American and Black communities ample of this intersection. through streetwear and art. Ms. Ma wants to use streetwear First established in 2002 in Hyde to connect Asian and Black com- Park, Leaders 1354 has moved to munities in Chicago, but knows a storefront in the West Loop. The that prejudice and language barri- Chicago streetwear brand has col- ers are obstacles to that goal. laborated with Adidas, Billionaire “I feel like there is a lot of, like, Boys Club, and the Chicago Black- fear between the two communi- hawks since Ms. Ma started 2016 tiess,” Ms. Ma said. “I want there to in her senior year at the School of be more understanding.” the Art Institute of Chicago. She also believes the shared sen- “Leaders was one of the first timent of struggle is something streetwear brands in Chicago…” that has the power to bring under- Ms. Ma said. “And that started ev- standing between people. erything.” “We can relate to the Black com- Leaders 1354 has built a com- munity in terms of our struggle. munity by teaching business and You know, being mistreated but al- soft skills to developing artists and so having a deep-rooted cultural entrepreneurs Ms. Ma said. experience,” Ms. Ma said. “All the Chicago youth that you Experience across the Asian and know of have either worked in African diaspora is vast, but com- Leaders or had some kind of affili- monalities can be found in strug- ation,” Ms. Ma said. “Leaders gave gles to survive and adapt. all these guys the confidence to Ms. Ma was motivated by the do what they want, and it’s like a lack of representation in main- learning place.” stream culture to be a voice for the The brand recently collaborated Asian community. with GoodKids MadCity, a group “In middle school I would al- of young activists led by Black and ways say to myself, ‘I gotta make brown youth from the South and Asians look cool, we gotta, I got- West sides of Chicago. The group is ta do something about this,’” she calling for an end to violence in the said. PHOTO PROVIDED BY EDDIE RIVERA (ON INSTAGRAM @ELSEROCKONE) city through increasing communi- Ms. Ma wanted to use her plat- SHOWING OFF STREETWEAR. Lab alumna Ellen Ma shows off clothing from a Leaders1354 ty resources instead of policing. form to give her parents a voice, collaboration with Adidas. “We thought that GoodKids and along with that the Asian MadCity, they represent the lead- community to foster understand- na, her father immigrated to Chi- “What it takes to immigrate U-High less than a decade ago, ers of the youth,” Ms. Ma said. ing about an aspect of the Asian cago in 1993, her mother following here, what my parents sacrificed, Ms. Ma has gained prominence “They’ve done so much work with- American experience. in 1994 with Ms. Ma’s sister. None what they’ve been through,” Ms. and believes she’s started making in the city, and we also want to give Her father, a microbiologist at of them knew English. Ma said. an impact as an Asian designer. back to the community, because the University of Chicago, lived “They didn’t know anyone here,” Stories of struggle like those of “I feel like just me being around that’s part of what Leaders does.” through the Great Chinese Fam- Ms. Ma said. “They literally started her parents are what Ms. Ma be- the streetwear scene, the art scene, Streetwear is a canvas for activ- ine. When schools began to reopen from zero. They came here with lieves can connect marginalized it’s already made an impact,” Ms. ism, Ms. Ma said. at the end of the Cultural Revo- like $1,000 — it’s like the typical communities that sometimes Ma said. “It’s really cool to see that “I like how it is rebellious — in lution, her father took the mer- immigrant story. They always talk seem at odds. after people started to know my terms of fashion, and I guess art,” it-based entrance examinations about that.” “It’s a very human connection. name, that activist groups in Chi- Ms. Ma said. “There’s this idea of and gained acceptance to medi- Ms. Ma said she wants to show- Struggle is very human. I feel like natown are saying that they’re fol- high fashion — only the elites can cal school. case the struggle that she and her that connects people.” lowing my lead.” wear it, can utilize it — but the idea After garnering success in Chi- family endured. Despite only graduating from First published on Feb. 26, 2021. Show entertains, provokes political introspection By CAROLINE HOHNER stories about his sexuality and his relation- ARTS CO- EDITOR ship with his father. The show ends with a An army of muted portraits of old white debate between Ms. Schreck and Rosede- men stares blankly out from the walls above ly Ciprian, a 14-year-old debater, which cul- the stage. Below, the animated features of minates in a random audience member de- actress and writer Heidi Schreck light a dim ciding who won the debate for or against — Broadway stage. Ms. Schreck dons a pastel and with it the fate of the Constitution. yellow blazer and unwavering smile, armed While Mr. Iveson’s speech was amusing, with her teenage self’s equally unwavering it didn’t fit with the rest of the show. Ms. faith in the U.S. Constitution. Schreck initially brings him center-stage An engaging blend of comedy and reflec- to read notecards on U.S. legislation on vi- tion, “What the Constitution Means to Me” olence against women. What could have provides a good laugh and the tools for an been a powerful moment linking a history informed re-evaluation of our founding of oppressive rulings to Town of Castle Rock document’s role in modern politics at a time v. Gonzales is lost during an awkward tran- when we could all use some of both. sition to stand-up. The set of “What the Constitution Means The debate between Ms. Ciprian and Ms. to Me” is a recreation of the American Le- Schreck, on the other hand, concluded the gion hall in her hometown, where teen- show effectively, leaving audiences with age Ms. Schreck would debate the intrica- PHOTO BY JOAN MARCUS powerful examples of how to form their cies and wonders of the Constitution. In the SCHREK STUNS. Heidi Schreck speaks to the audience during a 2019 perfor- own views on the Constitution. Although show, Ms. Schreck reenacts one such com- mance of “What the Constitution Means to Me” on Broadway. it may sound clichéd, watching Ms. Cip- petition, frequently departing from her rian debate made me excited for the cur- teenage ideals to discuss, through hilarious recounts her family’s generational trauma, fully suspecting that her husband had ab- rent and future impact of the women of my and poignant anecdotes, how her relation- her voice fills with pain and passion. ducted her children. In the audio, Justice generation. I couldn’t help but grin as she ship with the document has developed. Throughout the play, Ms. Schreck draws Antonin Scalia can be heard debating, with clinched her argument for the creation of a “What the Constitution Means to Me” did on a history of violence against the wom- harsh detachment from the case’s humanity, new document, proclaiming herself “one of not go unnoticed in awards circles. The show en in her family to analyze what is and what the meaning of the word “shall.” this generation’s founding daughters.” was a Tony Award nominee, along with Ms. could be the role of a Constitution. Through It seemed unimaginable how anyone The show’s arrival to Amazon Prime came Schreck herself, and Ms. Schreck was a final- a personal narrative, she highlights the his- could get lost in the meaning of a word writ- just at the right moment. Broadway audi- ist for the Pulitzer Prize for Drama. Audienc- torical failings of the Constitution to protect ten 200 years ago when considering the live- ences have been deprived of content and, es can now watch the show from home on women from violence and explains the con- lihood of a woman who had lost so much. with the death of Justice Ruth Bader Gins- Amazon Prime. The multi-camera recording cept of negative rights: rights that prevent The court determined that the police had no berg and the recent confirmation of Justice offers a cinematic view of a 2019 stage per- the government from harming people rath- obligation to save her children. Ms. Schreck’s Amy Coney Barrett in her place, the rela- formance, providing a clearer picture of the er than obligating it to protect them. emotional connection to the case drives tionship between the court and the Consti- show than a live showing could lend. In a heartbreaking moment, Ms. Shreck home her argument: a document based on tution has never been more relevant. Ms. Schreck’s bright personality brings a plays audio from the proceedings of Town what the government cannot do will never With many of what should be basic hu- much-needed balance to nearly two hours of Castle Rock v. Gonzales, a 2005 Supreme suffice to secure the rights of its people. man rights on the line due to originalist in- of heavy subject matter. Throughout the Court case in which police failed to protect The show is not all monologue. Half- terpretations of the Constitution, a reeval- show, she weaves personal stories about the plaintiff Jessica Lenahan’s children from her way through the show, Mike Iveson, the uation of the document itself seems well impacts of the Constitution with witty jokes abusive husband, against whom she had man who plays the American Legion mem- overdue. “What the Constitution Means to about Patrick Swayze. As her teenage self, filed a restraining order. The police refused ber who lead Shcreck’s debates as a teenag- Me” offers just this, along with a good laugh. she is “psychotically polite,” yet when she to help even after she went to them right- er, sheds his uniform and tough act to share First published on Nov. 13, 2020. THURSDAY, MAY 6, 2021 8 • SPORTS & LEISURE U-HIGH MIDWAY • UNIVERSITY HIGH SCHOOL, CHICAGO Soccer team spirit stays strong Soccer captain “ What coach always said Hunter Heyman before the games was that we had to have heart and leads through we have to play as one.” uncertain year — HUNTER HEYMAN by LUCIA KOURI Hunter said the players missed it. CITY LIFE CO-EDITOR “I think the fans coming out In his first three years on the is criminally underrated,” Hunt- soccer team, senior Hunter Hey- er said. “The U-High chants ev- man had a playing experience not ery year and even just the school unlike what most U-High students shouting up one player when they would expect. At home games, make a big tackle — that kind of crowds of parents and students excitement just coming from the gathered and cheered from the fans is something that we really stands. At away games, players missed.” crammed into loud school buses. The solution to this problem, Outside of games, team mem- Hunter said, required the team to bers spent time getting to know find motivation from each other, each other as more than just soc- rather than from external sources. cer players. This year, howev- “One thing that we tried to do to er, five months after the usual fall support the team, especially these soccer season, Hunter found him- last two games, was our bench be- self wearing a mask and playing in coming our biggest fans and our front of empty stands — no longer teammates becoming our biggest as just a player, but as the captain. fans,” Hunter said. “A kid goes in- In a year unlike any before, to a tackle hard and you’ve got the Hunter has taken the lessons that whole bench riled up, and it’s ex- he learned in past years to become citing.” a leader who prioritizes team According to Hunter, the team chemistry even in the most isolat- learning how to play with heart si- ed of times. multaneously taught them how to According to Hunter, what de- play as one. fined his early years playing for “Team chemistry was kind of an U-High were team dinners outside issue coming into the season, but of games that allowed him to bond nearing the end, especially after with older players. spring break and after the second “The whole team getting to eat Latin game, I think we really kind together really bonded and creat- of meshed as a team,” Hunter said. ed that family atmosphere that we Hunter’s skills as a captain also strive to have on the team,” Hunter strengthened this team chemistry, said. “That experience has kind of according to senior teammate Ju- shaped me in terms of how I view lian Mondragon. my roles on the team as a senior, “I think the biggest quality of his and then also just how I view the that stood out, this season espe- team in general.” cially, is his passion for the game Heading into the season the soc- and for his teammates,” Julian cer team had to work harder than said. “We always say that the soc- usual to foster this sense of com- cer team is a family, and Hunter munity. With limited time outside really brought that out in the team of practice, and with injured play- this year.” ers, the team started the season off Similarly, junior player Philip MIDWAY PHOTO BY MIRIAM BLOOM on the wrong foot. Kellermeier said Hunter is a very “What coach always said be- humble leader and that Hunter SOCCER SUBSISTS. Soccer captain Hunter Heyman practices on Jackman field March3 . The team fore the games was that we had to did a particularly good job at mak- struggled as coronavirus regulations restricted their schedule and left them without spectators. have heart and we have to play as ing new players feel included. one,” Hunter said. “I think that was “We had a whole new team this ample, encouraging the team to hardest worker on the field, that’s the time about his soccer team something that our team kind of year. He welcomed and supported find purpose in their playing. what everyone will see and every- in college, and how they see each struggled with a little bit.” many younger kids that may have “That was something I saw last one will respond to.” other all the time — how they take One factor that limited mem- been intimidated by high school year a lot from Miles Rochester,” Moving forward, Hunter be- care of each other,” Hunter said. bers’ ability to play with heart, soccer,” Philip said. “He would Hunter said. “He wasn’t always the lieves his time on the team will “Developing that social group — Hunter said, was the fact that no make these amazing saves that most talkative on the field, but he stick with him, especially thinking that close-knit connection — is spectators were allowed to watch keep us hopeful of winning.” would just work all the time, and back on such an unusual year. something that I’m going to take the games from the bleachers. As a captain, Hunter leads by ex- I was like, OK, if I can just be the “Coach [Josh] Potter tells us all away and plan to focus on later.” Despite distance, online chess builds community doesn’t consider there to be a dif- Since the start of hybrid learn- Chess unites ference between playing online or ing, Andrew had been playing in person, often choosing to play more with his friends during pass- in-person, whichever is more convenient. ing periods, lunch or after school. “So considering the pandemic, “Most people play with friends, online students online chess has become the go- which is how I personally prefer by ANATHEA CARRIGAN to for a lot of amateur and world- to play, regardless of how talented OPINION EDITOR class chess players,” Andrew said. they are at the game or how much When junior Andrew Razborov “I think the practicality of online experience they’ve had,” Andrew was 4 years old, he began playing chess and the ability to face oppo- said. “Literally anyone can play be- chess with his dad. In first grade, nents of your own level at any time cause the rules are simple, and it’s he began to play with friends via of day has encouraged me to play very engaging.” the chess club at Lab, remaining chess a lot more.” Both Andrew and Taig find that a part of the club well into middle Junior Taig Singh similarly finds chess differs from other activities school. online chess appealing because of such as sports or video games in As he progressed to high school, its adaptability. that it is exclusively a mental game. he played less frequently, un- “I never plan for it and dedicate “The only real thing that you til he watched a collaboration on time in my day just to play chess,” do when you play chess is think Twitch, a streaming platform, be- Taig said. “I just open up lichess. about the next move,” Andrew tween the esports gamer known as com whenever I’m in front of my said. “Even when you are watching xQc and professional chess player computer and want to take a break the game, or even when the game from whatever it is I’m doing.” might not go as you wanted it to, Hikaru Nakamura. MIDWAY PHOTO BY MALCOLM TAYLOR The opponent varies from per- you still manage to mentally en- Over the course of the pandem- QUARANTINE’S GAMBIT. Junior Taig Singh plays a game of ic, some students have discovered son to person. Taig most frequent- gage in it.” chess from his laptop. “I just open up lichess.com whenver I’m in online chess to be a fun, stimulat- ly plays against a stranger, as it Taig values the amount of men- ing and slightly competitive game front of my computer and want to take a break,” Taig said. takes just a few seconds to find a tal stimulation in a game of chess. they can play with friends. game. He can also send a link of Taig said, “It’s purely mental, Watching the livestream piqued “I guess from there I got really online and with my dad,” Andrew his game server to his friends if he and I never have to think ahead as Andrew’s interest in playing chess back into chess and started play- said. wishes to face competition he may much in other activities as I do in a again. ing a lot over the summer, both Like many others, Andrew be more familiar with. game of chess.” THURSDAY, MAY 6, 2021 U-HIGH MIDWAY • UNIVERSITY HIGH SCHOOL, CHICAGO SPORTS & LEISURE • 9 Competitive spirit separates Driven: golfer from field of opposition by COLIN LESLIE player by far, but she’s always, like, REPORTER bubbly and talks to everyone.” n Emily Chang’s first golf tour- According to Coach Fajardo, nament, she came in last watching Emily interact with her place. She was 12 years old. teammates and coaches gives no I “I was thinking for so long indication of how good of a golf- that I was so good,” Emily, now a er she is. He said she is very down- senior, said. “Playing with these to-earth. girls who were beating me by, like, “She brings a lot of great ener- 30 strokes, I was like ‘Whoa, OK, gy, a lot of positive attitude, great that’s what I want to do.” competitiveness and she is just the Competitiveness caused Emi- most ideal teammate you could ly to take golf seriously, but it has have,” Coach Fajardo said. not compromised her ability to be Emily’s season was shortened a good teammate, even as her se- this year, winning her only com- nior season was unexpectedly cut petition, the conference champi- short. onship, before all four girls from U-High golf coach Marco Fajar- the U-High team set to compete in do said Emily’s competitiveness regionals made individual deci- when golfing is obvious to those sions not to play. According to watching her. Emily, they were experiencing “She’s super competitive, not mild sickness, but she said that- just amongst her peers, but just they all later tested negative for amongst herself,” Coach Fajardo COVID-19. said. “She strives to achieve the “It’s definitely not the ending to most out of her abilities, and she my high school career that I was feels that she can achieve more.” hoping for,” Emily said. “[The Lab Emily said her high expectations golf team members] spend a lot for herself can cause her to feel in- of time together usually, but on- ternal pressure when she golfs. ly seeing them once a week now “If I don’t play well I feel like I’m because we only practice on kind of letting myself down be- Wednesdays as opposed to, you cause I know how good I could be,” know, basically every day after Emily said. “I’m not going to step school has been kind of tough. out onto that golf course and not We don’t have the team bus rides give it my best for every shot on listening to music or just talking those 18 holes because you never and hanging out.” win that way, you never feel good Emily said there is no better feel- about yourself that way.” ing than winning a golf tourna- “I’m not going to step out on- ment and holding the prized tro- to that golf course and not give it phy over her head. my best for every shot on those 18 A couple of years after finishing holes because you never win that in last place at her first local golf way, you never feel good about tournament, Emily won her first yourself that way.” national tournament. Emily is approachable and re- Emily said, “That was the mo- MIDWAY PHOTO BY CHLOE MA laxed around teammates accord- ment when I was like, ‘I love ABOVE PAR: Senior Emily Chang stances up, preparing to swing at a golf ball at the Jackson Park ing to junior Aaron Kim, a mem- this,’ and this is something Golf Course Oct. 14. Emily placed first in the ISL conference championship before the golf season ber of the golf team. that I want to keep working to- came to an abrupt end. She credits her success to her high standards and competitiveness. “She’s definitely the leader of the wards forever, honestly.” team,” Aaron said. “She’s the best First published on Oct. 6, 2020. Teens build PCs for personalization, unique connection by BERK OTO MANAGING EDITOR “It’s simultaneously one of the most Starting from several small boxes of seem- exciting and relieving feelings to ingly random parts from a multitude of see your computer post for the first brands, senior Sean Zhang tries to build his first computer. After hours of careful wiring, time.” — SEAN ZHANG, SENIOR screwing and unscrewing parts into place and fitting hardware into his computer case, he plugs in his computer to his monitor for a part of them just dies when you pay mon- the first time. ey for a prebuilt.” Success! The comput- Building a computer has challenges, so er posts, listing the parts prebuilt PC companies are able to take ad- it’s able to detect, the vantage of the difficulty of building a PC same ones he meticulous- by charging significant fees for building ly picked out and careful- the computer and often selling low-quality ly assembled in the days hardware. leading up to this mo- “If you pay for a prebuilt, you’re paying ment. more money for low-quality components,” “It’s simultaneously one Sean said junior Brandon Bousquette, who also of the most exciting and Zhang built his computer. “Instead you could in- relieving feelings to see vest that service fee into upgrades that will your computer post for the first time,” Se- significantly improve your gaming experi- an said. ence.” MIDWAY PHOTO BY ANDREW BURKE-STEVENSON Sean is one of several students who have According to Brandon, these upgrades CIRCUITS AND WIRES: A student constructs part of a personal computer. He is opted to build their own personal comput- could include a faster graphics card that one of many students who have taken to building their own PCs for a greater chal- ers, choosing greater customizability over makes games feel smoother and more im- lenge rather than buying one prebuilt for a high price. the convenience and tech support of pre- mersive. built computers, known as prebuilts. They Aiming to make PC building and upgrad- ing it when I was keeping up with hardware coming the daunting and personal experi- often cite social pressure and the creation of ing more accessible, computer hardware news just because it was really exciting.” ence of building a PC. a special bond with their hardware as main channels have sprung up on YouTube, like Part of this greater control includes the “I definitely feel a sort of bond every time reasons. Linus Tech Tips, which boasts 12.5 million ability to customize, upgrade and fix indi- I turn on my computer,” Brandon said. “It’s a Because he plays a lot of video games, Se- subscribers, and Austin Evans with 4.8 mil- vidual parts to fit a theme or color palette. combination of pride and accomplishment an needed a powerful computer, and he felt lion subscribers. Sean not only learned how Even RGB lights, which can illuminate up to since it’s turning on because of me, and I see pressure from the gaming community to to build his computer by watching these 16.7 million colors, are a common edition to the proof of that on my monitor.” build his own. videos, he also discovered a surprising side PC hardware and allow users to further cus- Brandon especially appreciates this feel- “I built my computer to get the best gam- of PC building. tomize the look of their computer. ing now, when most of his daily activities ing performance for the money I was will- “Before I just thought about it as a smart “My first priority was functionality and have transitioned online. ing to pay,” Sean said, “but I’d be lying if I move financially, but watching videos price, but I was also willing to spend some “Especially during remote learning, my said that I would have done it if my friends showed me the geeky fun of being real- money on looks — I wanted it to comple- ability to go to school, do work and play hadn’t pushed me. There’s a surprisingly big ly focused on building the computer,” Se- ment the aesthetic of my room with some games are all tied to this unique computer tech community out there, and they are die- an said. “There’s some excitement in having cool accents like RGB,” Brandon said. that only I know the details of,” he said. “It’s hard for getting you to build your own com- so much control over your experience, and I Both Brandon and Sean feel a special con- really a magical feeling.” puter. I could’ve still bought one, but it’s like definitely went through a phase after build- nection to their unique builds from over- First published on Dec. 14, 2021. THURSDAY, MAY 6, 2021 10 • OPINION U-HIGH MIDWAY • UNIVERSITY HIGH SCHOOL, CHICAGO Given inequities, finals should not be administered

As the Midway sees it … “ Although axing final exams may seem like yet another ith 23 weeks of dis- cut into an already lean tance learning, a sharp pivot and curriculum, it is far more seven weeks of hy- important for teachers to brid learning, the prioritize equity, academic 2020-21W school year has been an integrity and the student experiment in establishing aca- demic equity and anything but experience.” typical. Although some departments have already abandoned their plans to conduct formal final ex- fer from Zoom fatigue and online ams, some teachers may still be distractions just a few clicks away. considering administering a high- These factors put remote students stakes exam testing the totality of at a disadvantage for any synchro- the academic year or semester’s nous test, but the effects are espe- curriculum. To maintain equity cially pronounced for a test worth and academic integrity, increase a high percentage of a student’s learning and show compassion to- grade, like a final exam. ward student experiences, cumu- A final-like exam would also al- lative course exams should not be most definitely lead to significant administered this year. cheating, especially among re- Despite the best efforts of facul- mote students. Although teachers ty and administrators, inequities have ways to administer tests or MIDWAY PHOTO BY MALCOLM TAYLOR remain between the experiences use technology to limit opportuni- TESTING TIME. Teachers should focus on finishing curriculum rather than administering finals. of remote and in-person students. ty for cheating, nothing is as effec- Fair testing has proven to be a problem this year, as there is no way to ensure equity among in-per- For example, it is not possible for tive as the watchful eye of a teach- son and remote students. remote students to participate in er in the testing room. Adminis- most in-person laboratory activ- tering such a high-stakes test with vote their precious class time to- opposed to covering new material pandemic. Expecting students to ities, so many are forced to watch some students remaining remote ward getting through as much that may help them succeed in fu- recall the full curriculum of such a as in-person students get the full would skew the results and poten- course material as possible (while ture classes. tumultuous academic year would classroom experience. Activities tially boost the grades of remote prioritizing student mental health Finally, it is necessary to ac- be unempathetic and inconsider- such as labs are the backbone of students substantially, making the of course). Maximizing this year’s knowledge that students have had ate to the diversity of experiences U-High’s experiential curriculum test unfair for any student giving curriculum would make next ac- wildly different experiences in the within the student body. and without the ability to partic- the test an honest effort. ademic year much easier for stu- last year. While it is true that there Although axing final exams may ipate in them, remote students This academic year, nearly all dents by decreasing the amount of are several students whose men- seem like yet another cut into an would be put at a disadvantage for teachers have had to scrap parts catch up. Beyond the time need- tal and physical health was largely already lean curriculum, it is more a final exam. of their class’ curricula to fit into ed to take the test itself, a final-like unaffected this year, there are also important for teachers to prioritize Even if a class is taught similarly the block schedule. Because sev- exam would necessitate review pe- many who have lost family mem- equity, academic integrity and the for each group, in-person students eral U-High classes build off of the riods and incentivize students to bers to COVID-19, experienced the student experience. For all these benefit from face-to-face instruc- curricula of their prerequisites, spend the last weeks of their aca- illness themselves or had an other- reasons, teachers must not admin- tion while remote students suf- it is important for teachers to de- demic year reviewing past work as wise rocky experience braving the ister a final-like exam this year. Mask restrictions still needed Instagram should not by WILLIAM TAN the population of Indiana, which remove sharing feature REPORTER is slated to rescind its mask man- “Signaling that masks Citing vaccine advancements date on April 6, have been fully aren’t necessary for a by KRISHITA DUTTA for advertising. and recently lower COVID-19 rates vaccinated. With such low rates of specific state suggests CITY LIFE CO-EDITOR Instagram has also recently in his state, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott complete vaccination, these states Once Instagram announced in turned into a platform to spread rescinded his state’s mask man- are not in the clear yet, and there’s that regions across the late January that it was consider- awareness about movements and date on March 2, joining six states still a genuine risk of COVID-19 re- country are in the clear, a ing disabling the ability for users to educate people on issues pri- which have just recently rejected surgence in the future, especially dangerous assertion for to share posts from their feed into marily through the function of re- President Biden’s with a rise in dangerous variants those in policy fields and their stories, us- sharing informational posts to sto- strong advice to such as the B.1.1.7 variant and the ers and activism ries, which would come to a halt wear a mask. P.1 variant. for irresponsible citizens.” accounts began if this feature were to be disabled. At the mo- Signaling that masks aren’t nec- to express con- If Instagram gets rid of the fea- ment, any state’s essary for a specific state suggests cerns because so ture, the spread of petitions, infor- choice to lift that regions across the country are many small busi- mational posts, and activism ac- mask restric- in the clear, a dangerous assertion nationwide vaccine shortages if nesses, creators, counts would slow down. tions can poten- for those in policy fields and for ir- supply cannot keep up with de- artists and or- Many small platforms heavi- tially strain the responsible citizens. This is illus- mand. Putting people at higher ganizations rely ly rely on their followers to pro- already-over- trated by a significant drop in test- risk by exposing them to the virus on growing their mote their accounts, and getting whelmed vac- William ing rates in Texas, as citizens are when only less than 15% of the na- platforms when Krishita rid of this feature would not on- cine rollout and Tan increasingly encouraged by the tion is fully vaccinated is jumping followers reshare Dutta ly put them at an unfair disadvan- sets an irrespon- prospect of vaccination. the gun. their posts. Ins- tage but would hinder Instagram sible precedent for other states It also strains the vaccine roll- Only maintaining disciplined tagram must comply with its us- users’ ability to gain information with higher reported COVID-19 out by perpetuating an urgen- and responsible measures like ers’ wishes and allow them to con- from the app. rates. cy to fulfill the desires of people mask-wearing will take us out tinue resharing posts to their story. Instead of disabling the feature While Texas’s COVID-19 state like those in Texas who are ignor- of the pandemic and into safety. Disabling this feature is harm- to decrease the spam on stories, positivity rate is under 10%, only ing safety measures like testing in President Biden sums it up per- ful to businesses and other indi- Instagram should set a limit on the 12% of Texans were fully vaccinat- hopes of receiving the vaccine as fectly, calling Texas’s decision, “Ne- viduals who rely on organic shar- number of posts that can be up on ed at the time this article was pub- fast as possible. This can have cat- anderthal thinking.” ing of posts, especially since most a person’s story at a time. lished. Additionally, only 15% of astrophic consequences such as First published March 31, 2021. small platforms can’t afford to pay First published March 12, 2021. U-HIGH MIDWAY Published during the school year EDITORS-IN-CHIEF*...... Ella Beiser, ASSISTANT EDITORS...... Ryan Clark, PHOTO EDITORS...... Miriam Bloom, EDITORIAL POLICY & MISSION: by journalism and photojournalism Amanda Cassel, Nicky Edwards-Levin Amon Gray, Adrianna Nehme, An Ngo Elliott Taylor, Malcolm Taylor In a time when the press is criticized, the U-High Midway seeks to inform, educate students of University High School, MANAGING EDITOR* ...... Berk Oto CONTENT MANAGERS...... Meena Lee, PHOTOJOURNALISTS...... Andrew University of Chicago Laboratory Schools. Noa Appelbaum, Téa Tamburo and serve the community of University NEWS EDITOR* ...... Peter Pu Burke-Stevenson, Myles Cobb, Chloe Ma High School. The Midway is developed and 1362 East 59th Street OPINION EDITOR* ...... Anathea Carrigan REPORTERS...... Caledonia Abbey, ARTISTS...... Charlotte Henderson, managed by students, for students. Chicago, Illinois 60637 Louis Auxenfans, Samuel Beck, Phone 773-702-0591 *Members of the Editorial Board Alina Susani Eddie Christensen, Peter Cox, Email [email protected] FEATURES EDITOR ...... Grace Holleb mje In every story we write, the Midway should Karina Escobedo, Joaquin Figueroa, ADVISER ...... Logan Aimone, give a voice to the experiences of people Copyright 2021, Journalism students, ARTS EDITORS ...... Caroline Hohner, ...... Jayna Rumble, cje Carolyn Gao, Ashley Husain, Jack Hurst, PHOTO ADVISER at U-High. We will report on the people, University High School Julian Ingersoll Margot Konetzka, Colin Leslie, Printed by Grace Printing, Chicago, Illinois activities and thoughts that make our school SPORTS EDITOR ...... Christian Gluth Audrey Matei, Clare O’Connor, unique, striving to include the voices we uhighmidway.com CITY LIFE EDITORS...... Krishita Dutta, Audrey Park , Erich Raumann, Amy Ren, haven’t heard yet. Lucia Kouri Liam Seiler, William Tan, Sahana Unni

THURSDAY, MAY 6, 2021 U-HIGH MIDWAY • UNIVERSITY HIGH SCHOOL, CHICAGO OPINION • 11 For communal inclusion, focus on adoptees Current focus on single identifiers isn’t enough to represent adoptees by TÉA TAMBURO CONTENT MANAGER “ Since adoption isn’t In seventh grade, I attended an incorporated into Asian Students’ Association meet- discussions, I often ing. Discussing what it’s like be- question whether being ing Asian American, the topic was how we see ourselves fitting into adopted is a valid identity.” the Lab community. — TÉA TAMBURO However, I withheld a key part of my identity. I was adopted from our dialogue around diversity, eq- Hunan, China, and I had attended uity and inclusion to represent this meeting with the goal of meet- and include those from adoptive ing others who identify as Chinese families. Focusing on single identi- adoptees. fiers, such as race and gender, isn’t It’s not that I enough to make adoptees feel in- didn’t want to cluded in the DEI movement and share this about sets back the goal of communal in- myself at the clusion. meeting, but I When discussing identity, it’s would’ve been easy to focus only on certain iden- the only one dis- tifiers and how these define our cussing multi- self-perception. However, doing ple identifiers this allows space for only those MIDWAY PHOTO BY TÉA TAMBURO around balanc- Téa identifiers to shine through, disre- CHERISHED COLLECTIBLES. Sophomore Téa Tamburo keeps a photocopy of the ad that ran in ing two cultures. Tamburo garding intersecting identities that the newspaper the day after she was left at the orphanage in China. Being raised in a don’t fall into neat categories. Per- white family that I’m not biolog- sonally, my centering identifier is small, this defining identity can ting adoption from the discussion making international adoptees ically related to, I want to main- being an international adoptee, easily be overlooked and over- makes us question if the only val- balance systemic racism and feel- tain a tie to my native culture but so pushing conversations around shadowed, thus silencing the voic- id part of our identity is race and ings of not fitting into their adop- also partake in the traditions of DEI that disregard the intersection es of adopted students. creates a fear that our intersecting tive families. my adopted family, thus balanc- of race and adoptive status leaves Since adoption isn’t incorporat- identities are not valid. These identity conflicts are ing two sides of myself: the Chi- out the intersecting identities of ed into discussions, I often ques- International adoptees often do complex, so they should be in- nese and the American. In that those in the adopted community. tion whether being adopted is a not look like their parents, basi- cluded in discussions about the moment, I convinced myself that Adoptees should feel welcome valid identity. During group dis- cally putting on display that they impact that family structure, race race and adoption didn’t belong in sharing their experiences and uti- cussions, I stick to discussing ties were adopted. This makes the and self-identity has on us as a the same conversation since they lizing their perspectives to ad- to my Asian background, rather identity of “international adoptee” community and as individuals. weren’t cultivated simultaneously vance the DEI movement at Lab. than opening up about interna- public and prominent. When we do this, we can truly cre- in discussions. Because adoption is not addressed tional adoption, due to a fear of Race is interconnected with in- ate a more inclusive environment. As a school, we need to expand and the adoptee community is alienation from my peers. Omit- ternational adoption in this way, First published on Oct. 28, 2021. JUST A THOUGHT Choice feminism Female musicians U-High should keep To help restuarants, ignores key issues deserve more respect the block schedule relax restrictions by AN NGO by CALEDONIA ABBEY by LUCIA KOURI by LIAM SEILER ASSISTANT EDITOR REPORTER CITY LIFE CO-EDITOR REPORTER American women have lost a dispro- For years, rock musicians have been idol- Heading into the 2020-21 school year, During the coronavirus pandemic, reg- portionate number of jobs due to the pan- ized for subversive and reckless behavior, U-High transitioned from an eight-peri- ulations were put in place to reduce the demic, having lost 5.4 million jobs since becoming a quintessential part to the genre. od schedule to a block schedule, with each spread, but that closed some small busi- last February, while Jimi Hendrix set his class meeting just twice a nesses and drove oth- men have lost 4.4 mil- guitar on fire, Kurt Co- week and leaving Wedes- ers to bankruptcy. The lion jobs. bain regularly broke his days open for assemblies restrictions on indoor The burdening of job instruments, as did Paul and office hours. seating capacity hurt losses on women per- Simonon of “The Clash,” U-High should per- small restaurants with fectly illustrates why with one instance going manently replace the old small margins that de- choice feminism, an on to become the icon- and outdated eight-peri- pend on in-person din- ideology that has risen ic cover of their “London od schedule with a block ers to stay afloat. in popularity in recent Calling” album. schedule that is recep- With coronavirus years and focuses on An On the Feb. 6 episode Caledonia tive to the mental wellbe- Lucia case numbers on the Liam celebrating choice, fails Ngo of “Saturday Night Live,” Abbey ing and academic needs of Kouri decline and vaccines Seiler to address the underly- 26 year-old Phoebe students. the government should ing issues that have contributed to wom- Bridgers, accompanied by her band dressed A study conducted at Brown Universi- relax restrictions to save small business en quitting their jobs. in Halloween-store skeleton costumes, fin- ty finds that students focus more attentive- owners from bankruptcy and to protect Through the lens of choice feminism, ished a performance of her song by smash- ly in class and retain information for longer the economy. it would be an inherently feminist action ing her guitar on stage and was met with when classes are spaced out throughout the Interviews with small business owners for a woman to choose to stay home for criticism from the public and inside the mu- week and less material is taught in greater by the International Trade Commission her children. The issue with this is that it sic community. depth. reported that 55% said restrictions strong- doesn’t consider how a lack of public or This has revealed a double standard for With later starting times and without the ly affected their business, and according affordable childcare, the gender pay gap, female musicians in the industry, and we pressure of completing assignments for as to Bloomberg, more than 110,000 restau- occupational stratification and cultur- must stop criticizing women for acts men many as eight classes every night, students rants nationwide have closed. al beliefs about gender roles have all but are revered for. could adapt to healthier sleep patterns, According to Statista.com, the restau- eliminated her power to choose. Acts like this are intended to spark an- which plays a crucial role in enhancing cog- rant industry is in an “economic free fall” Furthermore, choice feminism fails to ger — rock ’n’ roll extremities are not every- nitive skills while also improving student and 87% of full-service restaurants have address how some women have more au- one’s cup of tea — and Bridgers’ was no ex- mental health. had a 36% sales decrease. tonomy in making their choices than oth- ception. When teachers see fewer students per The activist group Rally For Restaurants ers. While white women have made sig- On the night of the performance, Twit- day, time for individualized instruction in- urges people to support their local eater- nificant recoveries in employment rates, ter lit up with hundreds of responses not creases, and with designated time for of- ies before they close and disappear forev- women of color have not only been hit the from the usual enforcers of the status quo fice hours, students are given the opportu- er. hardest but are making slower job gains. but rock purists lamenting Bridgers for per- nity to develop stronger interpersonal rela- More increases in seating capaci- President Joe Biden’s coronavirus re- ceived inauthenticity or mocking her for not tionships with teachers and to ask for help ty should be allowed, and additional aid lief bill, which includes a $3,000 child tax breaking the guitar enough. when needed. measures should be taken by local gov- credit and direct payments to children, is It’s hard to imagine that David Crosby The in-class time taken away through the ernments in order to preserve local com- a step in helping women rejoin the work- of “Crosby, Stills & Nash,” would choose to adoption of a block schedule is not time merce and protect small-restaurant own- force. Steps like these that help tackle eco- call the performance “pathetic” if Bridgers wasted but instead time that contributes to ers. nomic inequality and the burden of child wasn’t a young woman. the overall quality of learning — time that Although the American Rescue Plan care may be a starting point for a funda- Whether or not the so-called “smashing” alleviates stress, decreases sleep depriva- was recently passed and will allocate mental and institutional dismantling of was perfectly executed is beside the point tion and enhances opportunities for per- $28.6 billion to a “restaurant revitalization the inequities that existed before the pan- when most of the issues with it are rooted sonalized instruction. As a school that will fund,” immediate aid is needed on a more demic. in misogyny. already be facing great change upon return- localized basis to preserve the hard work Choice feminism stops us from think- Before taking to social media to criticize ing to in-person learning next year, now is a of small restaurant owners and their fami- ing critically about what liberation really something unfamiliar, true fans of the genre better time than ever to adopt a class-struc- lies. Some establishments do not have the looks like. We won’t find liberation unless should consider that rather than an insult, ture that will be in the best interest of the financial stability to last until the larger we tackle the issues that drive inequality Bridgers’ performance was an homage to students moving forward. national aid hits. considering factors of race, ability, sexual countless legends before her, and should First published on March 15, 2021. First published on April 5, 2021. orientation and class. give rising female musicians the same con- First published on March 16, 2021. sideration. First published on March 5, 2021. THURSDAY, MAY 6, 2021 12 • OPINION U-HIGH MIDWAY • UNIVERSITY HIGH SCHOOL, CHICAGO Social media laws require change ASL should be Protections must be part of school lifted for companies curriculum with harmful content by JULIAN INGERSOLL by CAROLINE HOHNER ARTS CO-EDITOR ARTS CO-EDITOR At the Inauguration on Jan. 20, firefighter Are social media platforms publishers? Andrea Hall recited the Pledge of Allegiance Current legislation says they aren’t, meaning in American Sign Language while speaking content posted on a site is completely out of into a microphone for 10 million deaf, hard a social media company’s hands. Yet if they of hearing and able-bodied American peo- were, they wouldn’t be able ple to experience before to grow because they could Joe Biden was sworn in as be sued over tweets, posts president. and updates. American Sign Lan- Blanket protections guage should be initiated granted by Section 230 of as a language course in the the Communications De- Laboratory Schools cur- cency Act, the 1996 stat- riculum at an early age to ute that resolves platforms expose young students to of their liability for their a wide range of communi- content, against harm- Caroline Julian cation people rely on. ful content are no longer Hohner Ingersoll Since its establishment enough to protect against in 1887, ASL has helped the modern abuse of social media. However, deaf people around America to communi- if platforms are completely stripped of these cate in their daily lives, and the Laborato- protections, it would be impossible for com- ry Schools should validate them by making petitors to enter the social media industry. it easier for them to communicate in the There has to be a middle ground. community. Given the massive consumer bases of When ASL became an autonomous lan- these companies, the demonstrated effects guage in 1960, schools made an effort to in- of allowing false information and the incite- troduce this language to younger students, ment of criminal activity to circulate, these so they could communicate with deaf peo- companies should be held liable for the ple around America. Why should the Labo- harm their platforms play host to. ratory Schools be any different? Christopher Cox, a former congressman Like any other language, ASL takes prac- responsible for the creation of Section 230, tice and dedication to master, so imple- said that the original purpose of the statute menting the language for K-12 students to has been warped and that “Congress should develop would be beneficial to engage with revisit the law.” MIDWAY ILLUSTRATION BY ALINA SUSANI a new group of people who communicate Former President Donald Trump’s tweets site in court, which defended itself with the ward cleaning up the darker sides of social differently than them. drove the insurrection at the Capitol last broad protections of Section 230. The inci- media without necessitating government As large as the deaf and hard of hearing month. The eventual de-platformings on dent ultimately lead to restrictive amend- censorship. When it comes to government community is, Lab should be giving ASL a Twitter, Facebook and various other sites ments to the statue directly related to liabil- involvement in social media, it can be dif- larger platform than it had through small were voluntary, but the individual guidlines ity for sex trafficking. ficult to think of legislation that doesn’t en- clubs over the years. of these companies are not reliable in pre- In this instance, companies were stripped croach on citizens’ First Amendment rights, Teaching ASL would also help students venting catastrophe. of their protections when it came to hosting but allowing those hurt by malicious con- who are deaf or hard of hearing feel more This instance of social media content illegal activity. This process can and should tent to directly argue their cases provides a welcome at Lab. Knowing ASL would allow leading to criminal activity is the latest in a be applied more generally. framework for accountability without do- for able-bodied students and deaf people long line of disasters in the discussion of In- Amending Section 230 would create com- ing so. at Lab to communicate, creating a stronger ternet liability. pany liability for hosting illegal activity and Section 230 should not be an impenetra- more inclusive community. A 2018 NPR article detailing the history false information and give these companies ble shield against taking responsibility for It is Lab’s responsibility to equip students of the statue and the tech industry’s chang- financial motivation to crack down on such criminal activity and misinformation. The with a large array of communication skills. ing positions on it described an incident in content. It would also mean the victims of statute needs to be amended to hold social With ASL, we can engage with more people which the website Backpage.com promoted harmful posts or ads would have the oppor- media platforms liable for harmful content and possibly build empathy and connec- advertisements for child sex trafficking. tunity to fight for reparations without being produced on them. tions with those in this community. The trafficking victims lost to the web- shut down immediately. It would work to- First published on Feb. 22, 2021. First published on March 11, 2021. In hybrid, maintain SNL joke plays into falsehood by NOA APPELBAUM tropes that many can distinguish to guess” it was the Jewish half, he CONTENT MANAGER from reality, it plays into false and highlighted his internalized preju- student connections “Israel is reporting that they vac- dangerous misconceptions that dices — he heard a fact about Is- by CLARE O’CONNOR Since the start of distance learn- cinated half of their population, many people already have. rael, and he immediately jumped REPORTER ing, 42.9% of Lab middle and high and I’m going to guess it’s the Jew- Che’s comment drifted into the to the conclusion that the Jews After almost a school students feel that they are ish half.” Michael dangerous “middle ground” terri- will only protect themselves. This year of distance performing worse than they usu- Che, role-play- tory. Rather than making an exag- again construes negative stereo- learning, on ally do, according to Lab’s Janu- ing as a news an- gerated statement, Mr. Che played types and prejudice toward Jews March 8 some ary “All School Survey.” While the chor for Week- into misleading information al- that are already deeply-ingrained U-High stu- hybrid option is meant to rem- end Update on ready heavily circulating the inter- in our society. dents will begin edy some of this decline, the so- “Saturday Night net and social media. I see it on In- I encourage viewers of “SNL” a hybrid learn- cial separation that damages focus Live,” uttered stagram often, as classmates or ac- and other comedic platforms to be ing system that and mental health will increase these now infa- quaintances repost that Israel, the critical, both of the show’s content will bring each for many students, especially stu- mous words on country with the highest vaccina- but also of their reactions. It is easy hybrid-learner Clare dents who remain online as they the Feb. 20 epi- Noa tion rates in the world so far, has to be influenced by others’ bias- to the campus O’Connor watch from their homes while sode. Following Appelbaum refused to vaccinate Palestinians. es, and comedy shows like “SNL,” for two days ev- their peers interact in person. the studio audi- However, it is not that simple, as Is- while entertaining, are even more ery two weeks along with the oth- While this challenge seems in- ence’s sparse laughter after the re- rael has faced a delay and many le- threatening, because the fine line er hybrid-learners in their grade. surmountable, students have been mark, critics flocked to social me- gal questions on whether they have between exaggeration and reality Other students are making the persistent in finding creative ways dia to share their opinions, repost- the authority to vaccinate Pales- is blurred. We need to do further difficult choice to opt out of this to stay connected during online ing the video and commenting on tinians outside of Israel’s borders. research before taking what “SNL” long-awaited opportunity, re- learning — such as making online their concerns. Israeli leaders ex- Mr. Che’s one-sided sentence does says too seriously, and I encourage maining in distance learning due game nights or setting times for pressed disapproval, as did the Je- not even begin to unravel the com- everyone to examine their inter- to health concerns or other per- study session calls — and will be rusalem Post and members of the plexities of the issue. This willcreate nalized biases. sonal reasons. able to continue supporting each Anti-Defamation League. more negative feelings toward Isra- “SNL” is known to cross the line These separate learning models other even as the partial return Mr. Che’s comment, while per- el and the Jews who reside there. with their broadcasting of stereo- will create further division, which creates more separation. haps intended lightheartedly, is Mr. Che’s comment reflects the types and one-liners, yet Mr. Che’s is why students must work togeth- Lab students should seek out contributing to America’s rising stereotype that Jews are selfish. Mr. joke is not an obvious exaggera- er to continue communicating friends who might feel isolated and anti-Semitism and misconcep- Che didn’t say he thought it was the tion — instead, it reflects very re- with classmates who are on other commit themselves to communi- tions around Israel, and reflects “Israeli half,” but rather, the “Jewish al biases many have. With “SNL’s” sides of the hybrid/online divide. cation goals, such as calling three the deep-rooted stereotypes and half.” This implies that the Israeli millions of viewers, many are sure Optional hybrid learning puts online friends a week or talking to prejudice many have toward Jews. government only cares about Jews. to have viewed the Feb. 20 episode the student body into two separate three hybrid friends about class. As a Jewish person, I am well ac- It suggests that Jewish people and as confirmation to their existing groups as in-person students have Communication has always been quainted with not only the prom- the government are in agreement biases or perhaps were even per- more time to spend with each hard for teenagers, and right now inent anti-Semitism on the inter- with one another. This is false. Ma- suaded on a topic they knew noth- other and less time to be on their there are ever-growing challenges net and social media, but also of ny Israeli Jews are critical of the ing about. While I wish for a future computers talking with friends in that make connecting with peers the rising hatred toward Israel and government’s policies. Mr. Che’s where we can poke fun at stereo- between classes or after school. even harder. Losing social connec- Jews portrayed on the news. While comment also suggests that only types without people taking them This arrangement will result in a tion is harmful and students need comedic platforms like “SNL” re- Jews reside in Israel, further associ- to heart, I am well aware that to- second wave of social isolation to fight to keep communicating sort to Jewish jokes for perhaps an ating the entirety of the Jewish pop- day, jokes like Mr. Che’s have the for students continuing distance despite new barriers. “easy” laugh, Mr. Che’s remark is ulation with Israel’s actions. opposite effect. learning. First published on March 3, 2021. different. Instead of exaggerated When Mr. Che said he’s “going First published on March 4, 2021. THURSDAY, MAY 6, 2021 U-HIGH MIDWAY • UNIVERSITY HIGH SCHOOL, CHICAGO OPINION • 13 Deconstruct fetishization of Asian women Recent hate Fast facts: crimes expose The Chinese Exclusion Act passed in 1882. It prohibited immigration racism, misogyny from all Chinese laborers, and often immigrants from other Asian coun- by MEENA LEE tries. CONTENT MANAGER On March 16, I opened my 3,800 anti-Asian racist incidents phone to the headline: “Eight reported from March 19, 2020, to Feb. Dead in Atlanta Spa Shootings.” As 28. I continued to look into the news I saw more head- 145% increase in anti-Asian racist lines like, “Six of incidents from the previous year. the eight victims were women of 68% of anti-Asian racist incidents Asian descent.” are perpetrated against women. Immediately, I attributed the shooting to the Asian women are preferred by anti-Asian bias straight men of all other races. that has been on Meena the rise since the Lee SOURCES: CENTER FOR THE STUDY beginning of the OF HATE CRIMES AND EXTREMISM, coronavirus pandemic. However, THE CUT, QUARTZ. s as I read more, I noticed the bias was even more deeply rooted. MIDWAY ILLUSTRATION BY AMON GRAY It was reported that the shoot- a very casual way. However, there it left an individual’s immigration trays hyper sexualized Asian wom- er told police he had a “sex addic- is a long history of American leg- “The mere statement to be decided by the consul at port en. While it’s predominantly made tion” and had targeted these spas islation and media that have con- that the victims were cities and was used to restrict the by Japanese creators, it has been in order to get rid of his “tempta- nected Asian women with sexu- temptations for the shooter immigration of all Asian women. consumed readily by Americans. tion.” This hate crime exposed the alization, and understanding this This furthered the stereotype of Returning to the Atlanta shoot- intersection of misogyny and rac- history is an important part of un- highlights the need for the connection of Asian women to ings, the problem becomes even ism that Asian women face and learning. everyone, regardless of sex work. more strikingly evident. The issue sparked necessary conversations In the 1850s, an influx of Chi- race or gener, to examine Additionally, the strong pres- has been recognized on the na- about the importance of decon- nese immigrants to the West Coast who they are attracted to ence of the U.S. military in Asian tional level, with the Senate pass- structing the fetishization of Asian led, unsurprisingly, to an anti-Chi- countries in the 1900s has con- ing an anti-Asian hate bill on April women. nese sentiment, which grew as in order to deconstruct tributed to many tropes of Asian 22, but that is just a start to com- The portrayal of Asian women immigrants were perceived as a fetishization.” women’s bodies existing for Amer- batting the systems of racism that in the media is rooted in coloni- threat to the racial purity of white / ican soldiers. These tropes were Asians face in America. zation and further promotes sexu- America. Chinese women in par- popularized through productions The mere statement that the al stereotypes. This objectification ticular were perceived as a sexu- with the coronavirus pandemic. such as “Madame Butterfly” and victims were “temptations” for the reduces Asian women to only hav- al threat. They were stereotyped as Then, in 1875, the Page Act was “The Toll of the Sea,” which cre- shooter highlights the need for ev- ing sexual, docile or subordinate prostitutes and accused of spread- passed. Seven years before the ated both hypersexual and doc- eryone, regardless of race or gen- traits leading to bias, discrimina- ing sexually transmitted diseases. Chinese Exclusion Act, the Page ile representations of Asian wom- der, to examine who they are at- tion and violence. This scapegoating of Asian peo- Act was designed to outlaw “the en. These stereotypes are continu- tracted to and what media they If they are ever discussed, Asian ple in relation to disease demon- importation of women for the pur- ally found in the media today. For consume in order to deconstruct fetishes are often spoken about in strates an eerie parallel to today poses of prostitution.” In practice, example, the anime industry por- fetishization. Police reformation is necessary on nationwide scale by AUDREY MATEI proved to handle mental health popularity and usefulness, costing Finally, police funds should REPORTER “ Police reform should occur crises, and police funds are real- departments thousands of dollars be reallocated into different pro- As The Black on a nationwide scale, located into communities to help a year and leading to avoidable ci- grams. According to The Cut, redi- Lives Matter in such a way that police prevent crime before it happens. vilian death. recting police funds into the com- movement has Police departments nationwide Police need to be better trained munity programs like schools, gained traction weapons and tactics are should be demilitarized. Since the and equipped to handle mental medical centers, rehabilitation this year follow- demilitarized, training is 1990s, initiatives such as the 1033 health issues. Police training rang- centers, housing, and food des- ing the killings improved to handle mental program, a project providing law es from 10 to 36 weeks, and inevi- erts can actually help deter crime. of George Floyd, health crises, and police enforcement second-hand equip- tably this has led to inexperienced Government-funded after school Breonna Tay- ment from the Department of De- officers with insufficient training programs have been reported by lor and Daniel funds are reallocated.” fense, have allowed police to spend for complex situations and the es- youth.gov to increase the grades of Prude, so has an- Audrey / $6 billion on military-grade equip- calation of high pressure situa- 40% of students by giving children ti-police think- Matei ment. Such equipment includes tions. According to the Treatment the opportunity to stay in schools ing. After being change. armored vehicles, machine guns, Advocacy Center, mental illness and escape poverty and crime. shown time and time again the Police reform should occur on bayonets and grenade launchers. is involved in at least 25% of fatal Police mismanagement and flaws of our current police system, a nationwide scale, in such a way Additionally, the ACLU reported police shootings, and this number misconduct has gone on too long, many people have begun to ques- that police weapons and tactics SWAT teams and other drug-re- could be lowered with additional and it’s time to demand major tion police policy and demand are demilitarized, training is im- lated task forces have been losing preparation. changes through legislation. Executive action not enough for immigration reform by CLARE O’CONNOR pensive and breach an agreement ly easier to enact than legisla- gal battle as federal and state gov- REPORTER President Trump made only weeks “ The U.S. government needs tion, which has to pass through ernments argue in court. Officials On Inauguration Day, as noti- earlier, promising to consult Texas to stop relying on executive both houses of Congress. Due to released thousands of incarcer- fications popped up on my com- on any plans for immigration. directives to change this growing divide, Congress has ated migrants without consider- puter detailing the slew of chang- This lawsuit — just two days in- immigration policy. The failed to pass laws to reform and ing where they would go, while the es President to President Biden’s term — illus- modernize immigration policy, state of Texas is working to stop Biden made on trates perfectly the failure of the people whose lives are causing American leaders to resort these releases. Day One, I felt last 12 years of immigration poli- affected deserve to have a to executive action. Congressional Reliance on executive action re- relief. It was up- cy and makes me worry that Pres- comprehensive and reliable legislation is hard to pass but also sults in an incomplete, fragile pol- lifting to think ident Biden might continue the hard to undo, which ensures sta- icy that leaves defenseless the that so many same mistakes as his predeces- system protected by law.” bility for the people and business- tens of millions of people affect- changes I sup- sors. \ es who rely on legal structures. Ex- ed by immigration law. Young peo- ported could be- While Mr. Biden’s decision to ecutive action is vulnerable to be- ple must show our government come true with use executive action to carry out plex topic with myriad intrica- ing challenged in court and easily that the current legislative stagna- a simple signa- Clare immigration reform is designed cies that must be addressed by a changed or removed with any shift tion on immigration does not re- ture. One was a O’Connor to protect a large group of vulner- comprehensive policy, not a suc- in executive leadership. For exam- flect the changing values of Ameri- pause on most able people, the U.S. government cinct directive focused on a single ple, President Obama used execu- ca. Even in Democratic states, rep- deportations of undocument- needs to stop relying on executive change. Legislation, unlike exec- tive powers to enact the Deferred resentatives benefit from tangible ed immigrants for 100 days, while directives to change immigration utive action, would provide a de- Action for Childhood Arrivals pol- evidence that constituents want the new administration built plans policy. The people whose lives are tailed framework to address the icy. Later, the Trump adminis- immigration reform, so they can for changing current immigration affected deserve to have a compre- many contingencies, situations tration tried to reverse the policy push their own leadership to prior- policies. hensive and reliable system pro- and consequences. Executive ac- with their executive powers, leav- itize the issue. President Biden pro- When this decision was imme- tected by law. tions are useful for an immediate ing many “dreamers” unsure of posed a new immigration bill that diately met with a lawsuit from We need congressional change straight-forward change, but they their future. This instability con- will be put before Congress. Reach the State of Texas, my optimistic because executive action lacks cannot create the systemic reform tinues in the Biden administra- out to your congressional repre- confidence wavered. Texas Attor- the complexity and input re- warranted by the current broken tion, which has already reversed sentatives, and tell them immi- ney General Ken Paxton claimed quired to truly address immi- immigration system. Mr. Trump’s reversal. Now, re- gration reform is a priority to you. Mr. Biden’s order would be too ex- gration. Immigration is a com- Executive action is admitted- al people are caught up in the le- First published on Feb. 17. THURSDAY, MAY 6, 2021 14 • FEATURES U-HIGH MIDWAY • UNIVERSITY HIGH SCHOOL, CHICAGO Shared spaces Families come to understand distance learning, work lives by CAROLINE HOHNER to schedule our actual, you know, ARTS CO-EDITOR synchronous class instruction so Just a year ago, the work lives and that it didn’t overlap.” school lives of parents and kids ex- Melissa Steger, a lower school isted separately. To parents, school counselor, said sharing spaces can meant quick hugs and goodbyes be stressful for both kids and par- in the early morning outside Earl ents. She would know, as she reg- Shapiro Hall and gleeful pickups ularly balances working with third as classes ended. This hasn’t been graders with her responsibilities as the case since last March due to the parent of a second grader and restrictions during the coronavi- a 3-year-old nursery student. “It’s rus pandemic. Now, the work lives wonderful to be able to be pres- of parents and remote learning for ent and more involved and have MIDWAY PHOTO BY MALCOLM TAYLOR kids happen just rooms away. more time with kids. But it’s also History teacher Naadia Owens poses with her husband, Aaron Brunswick, While working in close prox- challenging because both kids and COMING TOGETHER. imity to young kids is not without parents aren’t getting the autono- and their daughter, Eden, in typical pandemic get-ups outside their home. Since schools transi- its difficulties, parents have dis- my that they’re used to,” Ms. Steger tioned to distance learning last March, parents like Ms. Owens have had to adjust to working near covered a silver lining to working said. “No one is kind of getting that their young kids, and in the process, have gained insights into who their kids are as students. and learning from home: distance space that they need.” learning allows them to better un- U-High English teacher Chris- “So I think, I don’t know, that was While parents are learning more children learn has also given them derstand what their kids do all day, tine Himmelfarb’s two older actually a beautiful outcome that I about how their kids work, their a greater appreciation for the low- and vice versa. daughters are attending school in had more insight into what a Nurs- kids are also picking up some of er school teachers. U-High physics teacher Matt person at Lab, while her young- ery 3 classroom was like.” what the adults actually do all day “My main takeaways,” Ms. Him- Martino spends his days fitting est, a 2-year-old, stays at home. Mr. Martino said he felt a similar as well. melfarb said, “have been that parenting and teaching into one Last year, while her older daugh- satisfaction watching his daughter “They have had a lot more in- nursery teachers and, like, first schedule. His fourth-grade son ters were still learning from home, learn from home. sight into the kind of work that I and second grade — those like and first-grade daughter are both Ms. Himmelfarb was able to learn “It’s also fun to see their school do as a teacher,” Ms. Himmelfarb teachers and young children de- attending Lab remotely. more about her daughter current- in a way that we don’t get to nor- said. “And there was a kind of a serve, well, maybe a lot more re- “It’s very hard to balance the at- ly in Nursery 4 while helping her mally see […] It’s difficult to get funny video I found on my com- spect than they’re given.” tention that [my daughter] needs with her schoolwork. my daughter to do her school- puter, where my daughters were First published on March 10, 2021. during her school and in between “That part was a really nice work, she’s the one in first grade,” actually teaching on Zoom on my her sessions of school with the thing, where I feel like I started Mr. Martino said. “But it’s fun to computer, like in a sort of pretend Scan this time that my wife and I have to, seeing my daughter through the get to see that product and those play way, and so I could see what code to you know, to give it to her,” Mr. lens of her age, versus just as this results in a way that you don’t see they thought, like a teacher does.” listen to Martino said, “and we’re relative- like ever-growing kid who lives as much when school is some- For these high school teachers, audio extras. ly fortunate because we were able with me,” Ms. Himmelfarb said. thing that happens over there.” understanding how their young Students struggle to shatter the silence in breakout rooms by CAROLINE HOHNER conversations in school,” Sydney ARTS CO-EDITOR “ I think some of my friends said. “But now they kind of just, Click. “Joining breakout rooms. definitely are more on they either wait, or they like, go It may take a few moments.” the outgoing side and on their phone or start reading or The gallery of tired students and would normally start something and just wait for some- an even more exhausted teacher is one else to start.” replaced by a white box warning conversations in school, but On the other hand, the low-pres- that this transition may “take a few now they kind of just, they sure environment makes it easier moments.” One either wait, or they like, for quieter students to contribute at a time, the fac- or ask questions. es of classmates go on their phone or start “One of the upsides is that the fill the screen. reading or something and group is a lot smaller. So maybe The students just wait for someone else if someone is intimidated to ask a stare at the lit- question in the main group, they’ll tle boxes or fid- to start.” ask the question in a breakout dle with their — SYDNEY TYLER room,” Charlie said. phones, unsure Although senior Karina Escobe- of how the next Charlie do enjoys contributing to breakout few minutes Brennan “You know, sometimes they’re rooms, she finds the awkwardness might pan out as SCREENGRAB FROM ZOOM really doing a great job and talking of the virtual format can make it they wait for a brave individual to AWKWARD. Students often turn off their cameras and micro- and even sometimes debating difficult to do so. unmute and break the silence. phones in breakout rooms, making collaboration difficult. with each other,” Mr. Taylor said. “I would say that it definitely in- Breakout rooms may have of- “I hate when I put kids in groups, hibits my participation, because it fered the best alternative to small- until one pops in. ly good experience with breakout and they try to outsmart me by do- just kind of gets awkward some- group work available during the “In a classroom, there’s some rooms since distance learning be- ing the divide-and-conquer thing times. And you’re just not feeling past year of distance learning, but kind of pressure just by the teach- gan last March. — like, ‘I’ll do number one, you do engaged in it,” Karina said. “It’s the format doesn’t work the same er being with you, like, maybe do “I like being able to hear other number two and number three’ — like through a screen, it’s not per- for every randomly generated work, you might not necessarily people’s opinions and being able when I really want them to actual- son-to-person.” group of students. want to do, but if you’re in a break- to express mine and comparing ly collaborate.” Ultimately, breakout rooms, For some students, the awk- out room, everyone could just stay ideas,” Sydney said. “It’s good to be While Mr. Taylor dislikes when with all their faults and awkward- wardness and lack of an obliga- silent,” senior Charlie Brennan able to work together and not just his students evade group-work, ness, are virtually the only meth- tion to participate leads them to said. “No one has to actually work have a one-sided conversation like he encourages any kind of com- od of bringing group work to on- wait out the minutes on mute. if they don’t want to a pre-recorded lecture. I feel like munication, even if it strays from line learning. For others, the casual setting lets When checking in on his classes’ breakout rooms are a lot more in- the subject matter, at times leav- “It’s never going to be the same students converse easily and ex- breakout rooms, English teacher teractive.” ing breakout rooms open for a lit- as in person,” Mr. Taylor said. “I change ideas. Ian Taylor has seen for himself the Mr. Taylor uses breakout rooms tle while longer to facilitate casual think that you can still have mean- Some students go beyond ig- results of a mutual pact of silence frequently in his classes, preferring conversation. ingful connections and exchang- noring the collaborative aspects “I’ll go into a room and every- the ease and familiarity of commu Some of the more outspoken es with people online and in these of breakout rooms and choose not one’s camera is off, and nobody’s nicating to a small group over the students who, before distance groups, but never the same, it to participate at all, only bothering talking,” Mr. Taylor said. “And I’ll pressures of unmuting to speak up learning, would jump head-first lacks the kind of energy that you to fake lively conversation when a be like, ‘Are you finished?’ You in whole-class discussions. Yet the into group work, have fallen silent. have in person and the authentic- teacher pops in. Unlike an in-per- know, like, ‘What happened?’” rooms can vary in terms of pro- “I think some of my friends ity of being next to somebody. But son classroom, breakout rooms Sophomore Sydney Tyler, on ductivity even when students keep definitely are more on the outgo- it’s as good as we can do.” are not supervised by a teacher the other hand, has had a relative- their cameras on. ing side and would normally start First published on Feb. 25, 2021. THURSDAY, MAY 6, 2021 U-HIGH MIDWAY • UNIVERSITY HIGH SCHOOL, CHICAGO FEATURES • 15 Zoom strains connections Student-teacher connections get better in person by PETER PU MANAGING EDITOR Student-teacher relationships, critical in the educational process, have had to be established virtual- ly this year with only two synchro- nous sessions per week. The lack of opportunity to connect during unstructured class time has left students and teachers feeling de- tached. The awkwardness of syn- chronous sessions has led to of- fice hours becoming a way for stu- dents and teachers to get to know each other. For some students, in-class in- teractions with teachers and peers have become more tentative. En- glish teacher Christine Himmel- farb has noticed that students ask fewer questions in class, but in- stead send her more questions by email. “I think the reason has to do with twofold, it’s the pressure of unmuting and taking what a stu- dent perceives as the class time,” Ms. Himmelfarb said. “So every- one, you have this captive audi- ence, everyone has to hear your question.” Junior Ava Eggener has felt the MIDWAY PHOTO BY ELLIOTT TAYLOR pressure and awkward nature of STAYING CONNECTED. Math teacher Julia Maguire jokes around with her remote students while teaching a class in person. It has unmuting in her classes. been a challenge for teachers and students to get to know each other over Zoom, but they say that in-person class helps. “I’ve noticed that I participate a lot more in school than I do over seconds or a minute, before my about the material that they’re a couple of times in class to an- same way,” Ms. Himmelfarb said. Zoom and maybe I’m more in- class each time. But for students teaching in class, but they’re get- swer your question, but it’s not like With the beginning of hybrid clined to ask questions when I who come right on time, or even, ting to know me more personally, they’re getting to know an individ- learning. Students who choose to have them because it’s less pres- let’s say 30 seconds, a minute or because I’m able to have conversa- ual as a person,” Alma said. opt-in may meet their teachers for sure and it’s not as awkward,” Ava two late, we don’t have that before tions with them more one on one Ms. Himmelfarb said the letters the first time this year. Ava hopes said. “But even just like I feel like class time,” Ms. Himmelfarb said. instead of in a class environment,” of recommendation she writes that the situation will improve when I unmute myself, I have to With only two synchronous ses- Alma said. usually reflect how students fit in with in-person education. ask that profound question that’s sions a week, junior Alma Mos- For juniors, college recommen- the community and interact with “I’m hoping that being in class like, you know, well thought out.” kowitz uses office hours to en- dation letters may represent a cul- others, but this year, they may be will help. I think that’s one of the Without casual passing periods hance her understanding of class mination of the established stu- more focused on their academic main things that’s missing over for informal conversations, even materials and to get to know her dent-teacher relationship. Howev- performance. Zoom is that it’s hard to commu- the couple minutes before class teachers a bit better. er, Alma Moskowitz is concerned “I think I do still have a pretty nicate and you don’t necessarily allows Ms. Himmelfarb to get to “Normally, it’s because I want to that teachers may lack an under- good sense from, you know, jour- have a good relationship with your know the students who arrive ear- improve my understanding of ma- standing of students as people nals and papers and note-taking, classmates or teachers,” Ava said. ly a bit better. terial. But I think that has really outside the classroom. and the participation I’ve seen in “So yeah, I’m hoping that that will “Those students, I feel that I improved my relationship with my “Teachers see us in the class- class, how they are independent make it more comfortable and eas- know better, because I actually teachers, because not only do they room environment with our mics students, but I don’t have a sense ier to participate and stand out.” talked to them, for even if it’s 30 understand that I genuinely care muted and we raised our hand of them within a community in the First published on April 13, 2021. I.S. tech team links classrooms, homes during hybrid interim director of innovation and Teachers find technology, the goal was for this “ At the start, being old- technology to be as user-friendly school and lacking the support with as possible. foresight to imagine “It should really just be second- schooling during a new technology ary in nature,” Ms. Bahroos said about the teachers. “They come pandemic, I knew how by LUCIA KOURI into a classroom and they are back to record grades, write CITY LIFE CO-EDITOR into what they used to do, with reports on PowerSchool, Most members of the Lab com- technology not being something munity have seen them poking that they’re worried about.” and hook up my laptop in in and out of classrooms, walking The IS team has been working the classroom. That was it.” through the halls or even visited hard to make this aspiration a real- — CATHERINE BELL their offices in need of tech-help. ity, but navigating technology isn’t While members of the Information easy for everyone. While teach- basement all the way to the third Systems team have always played a ers all run their classes differently, floor to help me out. Eric Schmidt, crucial role at Lab, they are current- most are making some type of use who used to be in charge of the ly taking on a more crucial respon- of this additional technology – and Language Lab has also been a tre- sibility than ever before. not always without difficulty. mendous resource,” Dr. Bell said. Members of the IS team have Catharine Bell, an English teach- “Often, I’ll ask a question and he’ll played an instrumental role in er who has been regularly seeking make a video to answer.” MIDWAY PHOTO BY NICKY EDWARDS-LEVIN Lab’s hybrid learning program, help from the IS team, said navi- Ms. Bahroos says this one-on- COMPUTER WHIZ. Information Technology support specialist easing the transition for both stu- gating the new hybrid routine has one time is a particularly valuable Anthony Gonzales works to help teachers navigate new technolo- dents and teachers by helping been a steep learning curve. part of the IS team’s work. gy through the transition to hybrid learning. bridge the gap between remote “At the start, being old-school “A teacher reached out and said, and in-person spaces. and lacking the foresight to imag- ‘Hey, you know I haven’t been in According to Ms. Bahroos, fa- munity.” Upon returning to school after ine schooling during a pandemic, the classroom since last March, miliarizing students and teach- As Ms. Bahroos put it – perhaps more than a year of distance learn- I knew how to record grades, write would you be willing to sit down ers with technology isn’t neces- technology is a step in the right di- ing, teachers spanning from low- reports on PowerSchool, and hook with me and go over the tech in sarily just beneficial during hybrid rection. For now, however, many erschool to high school were in- up my laptop in the classroom,” the classroom?’” Ms. Bahroos said. learning, but instead could lead to teachers still have a lot of learning troduced to a classroom technol- Dr. Bell said. “That was it.” “We absolutely try and accommo- long-term benefits if people can to do, and, luckily, have a place to ogy system that allows students at Since then, the IS team has date that, because we want our learn to use technology as a tool turn for help. home to connect with people that helped Dr. Bell and other teachers teachers to feel comfortable when rather than seeing it as a burden. “Now, many teachers struck are at school. The general class- through workshops, personal vid- they’re back in the classroom – “I think we always have an op- with the challenges of Hybrid room setup includes a powerful eos, private sessions and even on- and again – we understand that portunity to do better,” Ms. Bah- are nostalgic for the days of just microphone, speakers and a doc- the-spot help. it’s hard dealing with folks at home roos said, “to make Lab a better Zoom,” Dr. Bell said. “We teachers ument camera. “You have seen Anthony Gonza- and then folks in the classroom as place, to meet our teaching needs continue to be grateful to IS.” According to Monika Bahroos, les come from his desk in IS in the well.” and goals, and to serve our com- First published on April 14, 2021. THURSDAY, MAY 6, 2021 16 • FEATURES U-HIGH MIDWAY • UNIVERSITY HIGH SCHOOL, CHICAGO Best CLUCK for your BUCK here are not many comfort foods TAmericans love more than fried chicken. Even better, the crispy fried chicken sandwich, fit between a warm bun topped with sauce and pickles. It seems like the perfect meal wherever one may be. Different components can “make or break” its taste. But what exactly makes the best fried chicken sandwich? The crispiness of the breading? Fluffiness of the bun? Or maybe the sauce that adds just the right amount of spice. To find out, Midway staffers tried three chicken sandwiches popular throughout Chicagoland. MIDWAY PHOTO BY MALCOLM TAYLOR

Honey Butter Fried Chicken • $10 The Budlong Fried Chicken • $11 Popeyes Lousiana Kitchen • $4 Avondale Three locations throughout Chicago Locations throughout Chicago An excellent take on a classic that hides a unique twist, As its name suggests, The Budlong Hot Chicken’s hot The Popeyes Chicken Sandwich, a project two years in the Honey Butter Fried Chicken’s honey butter fried chick- chicken sandwich is spicy — yet its combination of addi- making by the iconic fast food chain, caused an uproar in en sandwich is the perfect combination of sweet and sa- tional flavors and crispiness make it an excellent choice. 2019 as high demand led to a mad dash to try the sandwich vory. As the menu explains, “The name says it all.” Golden The sandwich consists of a fresh-fried chicken breast, the before shelves cleared. The sandwich in question contains a fried chicken conceals the restaurant’s custom honey butter, restaurant’s own “comeback sauce” and coleslaw fit be- fried chicken breast with pickles and cajun sauce on a bri- sandwiched between a fluffy and equally golden bun. The tween a fluffy brioche bun. The chicken’s crispiness is ex- oche bun. It is the classic fried chicken sandwich. With the sandwich is a great example of comfort food, but its sim- ceptional and is one of the most successful components of Popeyes fast food menu, a number of sides and sauces can plicity is its weakness. The mild spices fail to completely bal- this sandwich. The strong spiciness comes from the chick- be added to the original sandwich if there is a preference for ance the combined sweetness of the butter and bun. How- en’s fried layer, providing an unexpected but welcome kick. spicing, seasoning or just something to break up the flavor. ever, the restaurant also offers three other sandwiches with The sauce and coleslaw work well to curb the spice, blend- The chicken itself is sweet and crispy with an almost nostal- more complex flavor profiles. For each sandwich sold, -HB ing in sweet and cool flavors naturally. The restaurant offers gic and comforting taste. The sauce is not strong or very fla- FC donates a dollar to organizations which support com- three other levels of spice: Naked (no spice), Hot and X-Hot. vorful but does add texture to the sandwich. For a feel-good munities of color. — CAROLINE HOHNER There are also three Chicago locations. — MEENA LEE meal to eat at a nearby Popeyes or at home, this sandwich is the perfect option. — AMON GRAY

PRESENTATION FRESHNESS FLAVOR SPICE CRISPINESS OK:  Honey Butter      GOOD:  AMAZING:  Budlong      Popeyes      Four steps to help you be financially literate by JULIAN INGERSOLL Research. Finances are differ- know where their money is going pending on the market, the pric- ery day, but it is two major things ARTS CO-EDITOR ent for everyone, due to one’s and what they spend it on. es fluctuate, and you can end up at one time. It can work as a deb- nvesting, card debt, checking 1financial stability, the amount “It’s just about information and gaining money or losing money. it card, but it is also a loan. As peo- accounts — these terms are of loans someone has and other awareness,” economics teacher Some apps like Robinhood and ple pay with their credit card, they Iwhat “adults” talk about. The factors. But in order to step away Charles Disantis said. “You know Etrade can make investing seem must pay back a certain amount at topic is a complete eye roll and from the uncertainty, doing a lit- what you have coming in, and you very simple, but the problem aris- the end of the month — the sooner not on the radar for some high tle research and trying to under- know what you have going out, es when the apps make it easy to the better. The longer the holder of school students. As teens grow in- stand how financial literacy works and you keep track of it in a sys- confuse investing with gambling. the card waits to pay the company to the idea of being more self-suffi- and why it’s important are cru- tematic way. If you don’t do that, “Even though these make it eas- the more the interest rates will in- cient and financially independent, cial in making a genuine change it’s really hard to have sturdy fi- ier to invest, it also can make it feel crease, making it harder to pay off. these ideas circulate in the back- in understanding. Assessing your nances.” Ways to practice this are like gambling, and there are major This is not a rite of passage to ground being postponed until the understanding of finance is cru- to ask people at home how bud- problems with that,” Zach said, “so buy your mother a new car or to time comes where there is no es- cial before diving into investing geting in the household works and you need to go into it with some buy a new condo, but it is also a caping it. The trick to making the and setting up accounts for your- their personal strategies for stay- sort of basis.” new way of proving that you are topic seem less intimidating is to make a short list of all the basics self. Senior Zach Sharp, head an- ing on top of their budgeting. Countless YouTube videos and financially responsible and con- one should know to become finan- alyst for the U-High the Finance books have helped Zach through scious of that responsibility. Invest. cially literate. Club, implores anyone getting in- Investing and the his investment journey, and he To start small with investing, Financial literacy is the ability to finance to do their research be- stock market are a little more hopes others will take his advice to look up YouTube videos and read complicated than what meets to understand and use different fore starting any aspect of finan- 3 do the same. books such as “The Intelligent In- the eye. Investing is an activity financial skills such as investing, cial planning and to join the Fi- vestor” by Benjamin Graham, anyone can get involved in, but Credit card interest and budgeting and managing one’s nance Club for personal help and which comes highly recommend- don’t expect to be the Wolf of Wall debt. own funds. guidance. This is so you don’t get People aren’t financial- ed by the Finance Club. Investing Street in the first few weeks of in- ly born into the world until Financial literacy is not conned, confused or caught in 4 is a great secondary source of in- vesting. they make their mark with their something that is explicitly taught a situation that you have to dig come, and becoming familiar with Before diving in head first, study own credit card. As seniors and ju- at U-High, but many clubs and yourself out of. the concept is a very helpful tool in up on the basics. What is a stock? niors become old enough to start the financial literacy toolbox. groups take great interest in the According to Investopedia, A stock getting credit cards for themselves, idea. April is financial literacy Budget. Sure, people “know” When it comes to credit cards what it is and what it means, is a portion of a company that many responsibilities come along and debt, reading the fine print month, so here are six things someone can buy, meaning own- with what most people see as a financial novices should be aware 2but have they taken the time before signing. Keeping an eye out ership of a fraction of that specific plastic, or metal card. So what is of. to see how it might impact their fu- for your budget never hurt anyone. ture finances? Budgeting, in short, corporation. This also means that this new form of spending money? As the years go on these top- is planning your finances for the you are entitled to the assets and A credit card is not a right of ics will just be another part of life, future. This ensures that people profits of that company. But de- passage to make it Christmas ev- when will you get involved? THURSDAY, MAY 6, 2021 U-HIGH MIDWAY • UNIVERSITY HIGH SCHOOL, CHICAGO FEATURES • 17 A place to call (or bark) home In fostering dogs and cats, senior develops deep relationships, appreciation for service by MEENA LEE CONTENT MANAGER “ My favorite thing, if they’re either At 5 a.m., on Nov. 30, Sophie Raphael really sick or shy, is just seeing opens the door to let out two energy-filled them get better and come out of foster puppies, Starsky and Hutch. They run their shells. It just feels so good to outside to play in the fresh snow for the first time in their lives. Sophie watches the pup- like, you know, nurse them back to pies’ excitement with affection, and it is health when we see them grow into enough to make her forget the early hour. big, happy cats and dogs.” For over three years, Sophie, a senior, has — SOPHIE RAPHAEL given a home to puppies like Starsky and Hutch to grow up in. Having fostered 10 kit- tens and 13 dogs from PAWS Chicago, So- After fostering for a while, Sophie has phie developed deep relationships with her found the puppies don’t like to be alone. animals and learned how it feels to make an “I’m such a softy that it’s hard to crate- impact on others through train them because I hate hearing them cry,” service. Sophie said, “so I spend like 24 hours with Sophie’s family began them pretty much – it’s just like a full-time fostering almost a decade job.” ago, when she was in third Despite the demanding task, Sophie re- grade, but stopped when ally values the bond she has created with the family adopted their them. own second foster dog. In “My favorite thing, if they’re either really 2017, the beginning of her sick or shy, is just seeing them get better and freshman year, Sophie’s come out of their shells,” Sophie said. “It just Annika lifelong obsession with Ludwig feels so good to like, you know, nurse them dogs compelled her to ask back to health when we see them grow into about fostering again. big, happy cats and dogs.” “My parents had said, ‘You can foster, but The emotional bond, however, makes giv- it has to be your own thing,’ because pup- ing up the animals the most difficult part of pies are a lot of work,” Sophie said. “That the process. was when I really started to do it on my “The longer you have them, the hard- own.” er it is to say goodbye,” Sophie said about When she begins to foster a pet, Sophie one dog she had for three months. “I feel so picks up the animal from a PAWS Chica- much guilt, dropping them off at the med- go medical center in Pilsen, where she gets ical center because I can’t explain to them, young foster animals who often have med- ‘I’m doing this because you need to go to a ical needs. The foster animals tend to stay home forever.’ I feel like they just think I’ve with Sophie in her Hyde Park home for abandoned them, which is so hard.” about three weeks, though they can spend Sophie is thankful a few of her foster ani- up to three months in a foster home de- mals were adopted by people in Hyde Park pending on the severity of their medical like junior Annika Ludwig, who adopted Iko, conditions. a German shepherd hound dog mix Sophie During that time, Sophie works a lot with fostered in April. Knowing she can see them the animals. often makes giving them up a lot easier, So- “I would go home during all my free pe- phie said. riods to let the puppies out, because they “Sophie walks up and you can see Iko’s tail can’t really stay in their crates for too long,” just starts to go crazy, and she gets so excit- MIDWAY PHOTO BY MIRIAM BLOOM Sophie said. She needs to constantly watch ed,” Annika said. “She just jumps all over So- PUPPY LOVE. Sophie Raphael poses in front of her house in November with two the puppies, clean up after them and give phie and licks her. It’s a pretty sweet reunion dogs she was fostering at that time. Having fostered 10 kittens and 13 dogs from them medicine. whenever they see each other.” PAWS Chicago, Sophie developed deep relationships with her animals and learned Senior Emelia Piane, one of Sophie’s good Ultimately, fostering dogs has given So- friends, has witnessed firsthand how much how it feels to make an impact on others through service. tionships with her ani- phie a greater appreciation for service. She mals and learned how it feels to make an impact on others through service. time Sophie spends caring for her foster an- makes a connection between her work fos- imals. tering and volunteering at La Rabida Chil- “There have definitely been times where the same way that it can be heartbreaking valuable. It would be hard to let yourself do dren’s Hospital, a specialty hospital for chil- to be at La Rabida,” Sophie said. “But I’ve that if you don’t see the benefit or the reward she says, ‘Oh, I can’t go, I have to watch dren with lifelong medical conditions. the pets,’” Emelia said. “Sophie really loves realized that I’m doing something good for that you’re giving to others.” “It makes me sad sometimes, kind of in First published on Dec. 7, 2020. them, but they’re a lot of work for sure.” them. That makes it easier. It makes it more Post election, activism shifts to local, specific issues byAMANDA CASSEL sition of power brought a general what does that mean? And so you Instagram graphics result in some EDITOR-IN-CHIEF sense of calmness and eased her see students in lots of different ar- sort of action. “ I’m optimistic because I Scrolling through Instagram, stress about politics. eas, some of which are related to Eliza said, “I want the things I know just from the get go, Santana Romero sees a graphic “I feel like I can go a day with- school clubs, some of which are re- repost to do something like help- that he’s going to have more with information on how to help out checking the news about what lated to community organizations ing educate people, or I’m very in- positive effects than Donald children detained at the U.S.-Mex- terrible thing has happened, and around Chicago, as well as issues to election-based stuff, so letter ico border. She shares it. Santana, what’s coming out and what tweet that are central to Chicago.” writing and that kind of thing, just Trump, but I think that we a ninth grader, notices how dif- has been said,” Eliza said. “I feel According to Santana, her ad- sharing the information.” should be cautious, because ferent the content of her story is like people our age, we don’t real- vocacy using social media has be- She added that simply sharing is if we just assume things, now compared to just six months ly remember much about Obama’s come much more focused in this not enough. ago during the heat of the election. presidency, but it feels like we’re way. “Otherwise, it’s just sort of per- then that’s when activism Rather than post after post about going back to “I think the formative and ends up being the starts drifting and stops.” getting out the vote, her posts call normal where danger is that same kind of activism as only do- — SANTANA ROMERO for action around the most im- there isn’t a con- Instagram can ing something to get into college,” portant issues to her: immigration stant scandal go- be very perfor- she said. to the education,” Ms. Gerst said. reform and police brutality. ing on.” mative. And so I To Santana, graphics that don’t “They’re not quite aware of those This is just one example of how Comparative think before the cause someone to take action can public policy intricacies and have students, comforted by having Politics teach- presidency, it often do more harm than good. a real desire to be more knowl- President Joe Biden in office, have er Christy Gerst could be very ef- “Just showing, like, video clips of edgeable. Right, so more of an shifted their activism from fran- said not on- fective because actual people of color, the injustice openness, as opposed to a stance.” tic and political party-specific to ly has she seen Eliza Christy people were just that is actually happening to them, Ms. Gerst said this interest and more local and issue-driven. students be less Doss Gerst trying to get the I don’t think that’s very effective focus in politics is in the DNA of “I’m optimistic because I know anxious about general message because I think that can also be Lab students. just from the get go, that he’s go- the presidency, but they are also that, like, you need to go vote and very damaging mental health- “It’s uniquely Lab,” Ms. Gerst ing to have more positive effects more focused on local and specif- you need to have your voice heard, wise,” Santana said. said. “Throughout its history, Lab than Donald Trump,” Santana ic issues. and so then that was it,” Santa- According to Ms. Gerst, edu- students have been at the vanguard said about President Biden. “But I “Students are more zeroing in na said. “But now you have to be cation-based activism is some- of political expression, and that’s a think that we should be cautious, on issues, right? Rather than plat- much more focused about what thing she’s consistently seen with right that’s afforded to them by the because if we just assume things, forms,” Ms. Gerst said. “And it’s you post about. It has to do more U-High students, but particular- University of Chicago’s principles. then that’s when activism starts interesting about political par- than an election graphic did, and ly now as her Comparative Politics Lab is like a century-plus institu- drifting and stops.” ticipation, because a lot of it re- you have to really care about it.” classes students approach analysis tion, and having these kinds of fo- Similar to Santana, senior Eli- volved around the election. So Both Santana and Eliza believe of political action. cuses and conversations, it’s a big za Doss said the presidential tran- in a post-election environment, it is important to make sure their “What I see is a real openness part of who we are.” THURSDAY, MAY 6, 2021 18 • HEALTH & WELLNESS U-HIGH MIDWAY • UNIVERSITY HIGH SCHOOL, CHICAGO Outdoor spaces diminish stress of pandemic Teachers spend time outside to escape, relax

by AMON GRAY ASSISTANT EDITOR n a rainy evening during the summer of 2020, math Oteacher Shauna Anderson took her daily run to the Garden of the Phoenix in Jackson Park. She was alone because of the rain and it reminded her of Kyoto, Japan, a city known for its beautiful out- door spaces. During the pandemic and dis- tance learning, teachers have found that outdoor spaces have been a place to develop hobbies and escape from the mundane parts of the city and Zoom. Chemistry teacher Zachary Hund has enjoyed having a spa- cious backyard in the suburb of Flossmoor as a space for himself and his family. Dr. Hund said he and his family spent most of their time before the winter out in their backyard and their neighborhood to ensure that his young children got enough time outdoors. “There’s nothing, to me, better than sitting out there with a fire pit surrounded by trees and my chil- MIDWAY PHOTO BY AMON GRAY dren’s playground and enjoying ONE WITH NATURE. The Lakefront Trail is an 18-mile path that follows the Lake Michigan shoreline. Since Shauna Anderson was the peace of my own space,” Dr. used to running on the lakefront, she was glad to discover different outdoor locations. Hund said. P.E. teacher Tom Piane recom- and you can find animal tracks like Garden and Washington Park, into her backyard garden. Ms. ers can find things in their lives to mends his students to stay active deer and raccoons.” were the COVID silver lining for Augustine also enjoys walking at counter the stress and tedium of outside as much as possible. Mr. Ms. Anderson has found plac- me because I was so used to run- Bobolink Meadow in Jackson Park the COVID-19 pandemic. Piane enjoys walking and biking es closer to her home in the Wood- ning on the lakefront,” Ms. Ander- and in Graceland Cemetery on the “I think it’s really important to with his family in Bemis Woods lawn neighborhood to run and son said, “so the fact that I had to North Side. get out and get refreshed and do Forest Preserve, part of the Forest exercise. Since the lakefront re- find someplace else to run, and I “I think that nature is the anti- that outside,” Ms. Anderson said. Preserves of Cook County in the opened for recreation in late could discover those places by ne- dote to Zoom,” Ms. Augustine said. “It just gives me a whole differ- west suburb of Westchester. spring, Ms. Anderson has enjoyed cessity, was actually a good thing.” “It’s tactile, it’s physical, it’s peace- ent mindset when I’m outside and “When we’re on that bike path, the view of the city from Promon- Outdoor spaces during the pan- ful. It relaxes me and it brings me I’m wearing my mask, and to get a we stop at a bridge to watch and tory Point, but she said she’s glad demic have also opened up oppor- joy and it makes me feel like the break from the monotony and the hear the water going over the to have discovered the other spac- tunities for expanding hobbies. Li- earth is going to be OK.” screen time and the Zoom calls is rocks,” Mr. Piane said. “There’s al- es she did during the summer. brarian Susan Augustine has been This past year, outdoor spac- just very refreshing. so woods to explore around there “Those places, the Japanese able to put more time and effort es have been places where teach- First published on Feb. 10, 2021. Students acquire new lifestyles with their extra time by CAROLINE HOHNER CO-ARTS EDITOR “If it’s something you want A few years ago, junior Ben to stick with, you have to be Sachs sat in a car on a road trip, lis- invested in it because it’s tening to his mom read out a Face- not really a diet. I’d say it’s book article about a farm sanctu- ary that rescued animals from the more of a lifestyle choice in animal products industry. While a sense, and the diet follows the article was hopeful, it led Ben that.” to question what about the indus- — BEN SACHS try was so brutal that those ani- mals had to be saved from it. That experience inspired Ben to “Make sure that you’re getting in become a vegetarian. Yet, it wasn’t the right nutrients and getting in until U-High transitioned to dis- enough protein,” Alexandra said. tance learning last spring that he “So you can look for alternate pro- transitioned to a vegan diet. tein sources like beans, quinoa, Throughout the pandemic, there’s a lot of other options.” some U-High students have taken According to registered dietician advantage of extra down-time and Lara Field, founder of FEED Nutri- classes near the kitchen to drop tion Consulting, new vegetarians animal-based foods from their di- shouldn’t forget to work more veg- ets. gies and whole grains into their di- While Ben entered the pandem- ets alongside attempts to pack in ic as a vegetarian, he has since enough protein. taken up a vegan diet out of both “When trying to move towards concerns for the environmen- a vegetarian or vegan diets, many tal impacts of animal agriculture people seem to get wrapped up in and the well-being of the animals finding the right protein alterna- MIDWAY PHOTO BY ADRIANNA NEHME themselves.­­ tives. However, it is vital to make Given the wide variety of foods GOT VEGETABLES? Students have taken advantage of time at home and increased kitchen access sure you include the right veggies containing dairy products, Ben to drop animal-based foods from their meals and replace them with vegan and vegetarian products. as well,” Ms. Field said. “Whole found it difficult to avoid them in grains are also essential. Whole the cafeteria or at restaurants near in order to keep things fun,” Ben period preparation for Easter in products but worrying about crav- grains contain whole nutrition — school. said. “So, we’ve just tried a lot of which Christians abstain from ings don’t have to cut themselves protein, minerals and fiber — es- “But now that I’m home,” Ben different things and just been able something in their daily lives. After off completely or all at once. The sential parts of a healthy diet.” said, “I’m not really going out any- to branch out, because I remem- Lent ended, Alexandra said, it was adjustment can be easier when Veganism and vegetarian- where. I’m a lot more creative. And ber when I wasn’t vegan, […] we easy to drop meat from her diet. eased into slowly, Ben said. ism are typically referred to as di- my dad was cooking a lot, and so would eat the same thing every “After I stopped eating meat Ben also encouraged people ets, but, as Ben explained, they’re we were just able to kind of eat week.” during that initial period, I didn’t to have a reason for making the more akin to a lifestyle. vegan pretty easily.” Senior Alexandra Nehme be- really have any desire to go back to switch before doing so, to ensure “If it’s something you want to According to Ben, he’s had to be came a pescatarian during the eating it,” Alexandra said. “I think they stay invested in maintaining stick with, you have to be invested more creative with food, as he now pandemic, meaning she now I realized that I personally don’t the lifestyle. in it because it’s not really a diet,” has an even more limited range avoids meat but not seafood, af- have much of a need for meat in Alexandra also offered some ad- Ben said. “I’d say it’s more of a life- of ingredients to cook with since ter deciding to try it out last year my diet.” vice to new vegetarians on how to style choice in a sense, and the di- starting his vegan diet. when her mother gave up animal But, according to Ben, those maintain a healthy diet without et follows that.” “You have to be more creative products for Lent, the six-week wanting to stop eating animal consuming animal products. First published on March 31, 2021. THURSDAY, MAY 6, 2021 U-HIGH MIDWAY • UNIVERSITY HIGH SCHOOL, CHICAGO HEALTH & WELLNESS • 19 Coronavirus cooking strengthens family ties Students find “ I’ve been learning knife techniques and meal community prep from my mom. I am cooking together going off to college soon, so I believe that it is an by ANATHEA CARRIGAN important life skill. I want OPINION EDITOR to know how to cook so I can Over the sound of the mixer, cook for other people, and sophomore Sarina Zhao barely hears her brother yelling “Heads so I won’t have to eat out all up!” as he throws a big bag of the time.” chocolate chips her way. It creates — ZACH SHARP a cloud of dust as it lands on the flour-covered counter. Before picking up the chocolate ing and baking to be beneficial to chips, Sarina finishes measuring her mental health. out the sugar she needs to add. In Oftentimes, she’s the one help- between classes, they’re whipping ing her parents cook. But when up their favorite sweet treat, choc- she’s cooking alone, she notices olate chip cookies. she has a helper of her own: her Students at Lab have been using 9-year-old brother, Kingston. their extra time at home to hone “Sometimes I’ll be cooking their cooking and baking skills, something and my brother will strengthening their familial rela- be following me wanting to help. tionships in the process. So I’ll have him cut vegetables or Since the beginning of the pan- MIDWAY PHOTO BY CHLOE MA something like that,” Sarina said. demic, Sarina has been trying to Sophomore Sarina Zhao’s family prepares dinner together. Extra time at home “It’s like having my own personal find ways to be more creative. No- DISHING DINNER. has allowed students to share more moments cooking and bonding with family. sidekick.” ticing that her family had been eat- Sarina’s favorite foods to cook ing at home more often, she decid- “When I cooked chicken soup “Cooking is definitely a skill I “I’ve been learning knife tech- are those where the entire family ed that cooking and baking would with my family, it turned out well,” should develop at some point,” niques and meal prep from my can get involved, whether it’s toss- fit her need for a creative outlet. Sarina said, “but my brother and she said. “Cooking dinner is just mom,” Zach said. “I am going off ing chocolate chips, chopping cel- “I’ve cooked dinner for my fam- I tried making a dish out of mung also a great way to help out around to college soon, so I believe that it ery, or stirring the soup pot. ily several times, which is some- bean pasta once, and that ended the house.” is an important life skill. I want to “One of my favorites is chicken thing I’ve never done before,” Sa- pretty badly.” Senior Zach Sharp has also been know how to cook so I can cook for soup. There’s so much to do; ev- rina said. Sarina has also found her new cooking for his family, but he has other people, and so I won’t have eryone can get involved,” she said. The meals she’s cooked have creative hobby to have practical been focusing more on strength- to eat out all the time.” “It’s always a fun, family food.” had varying degrees of success. uses. ening his skills for upcoming years. In addition, Sarina finds cook- First published on Jan. 27, 2021 Face masks fit any occasion In-person workout Masks have classes kick back up become latest by ADRIANNA NEHME Mr. Townsend stopped teaching ASSISTANT EDITOR for four and a half months but re- accessory for In a candle-lit studio surround- sumed toward the end of the sum- ed by motivational phrases, senior mer. According to Mr. Townsend, fashion, function Eva Platz Walker rides a stationary he feels safe teaching, despite the bike in sync to music during her ongoing pandemic since SoulCy- by JULIAN INGERSOLL SoulCycle class. cle changed the way the daily busi- ARTS CO-EDITOR After being ness is run through factors that in- Phones, purses, jewelry — and separated from clude continuous disinfection of now surgical masks. The pandem- the tight com- equipment, an upgraded air fil- ic has taken many things from us, munity of gym tration system and enforced social but one thing that it gave us was enthusiasts due distancing. a new accessory everyone carries to the corona- Similarly, junior Ashley Han- and wears all the time, visible for virus pandem- nah has been completing workout the world to see. ic, students and classes at a gym and has attended For more than a year, people instructors are hot yoga classes at Ritual Hot Yoga have worn masks not only to pro- Eva gradually shift- during the pandemic. When going tect themselves from COVID-19, MIDWAY PHOTO BY AMON GRAY Platz-Walker ing from virtu- to both, Ashley said her tempera- but also for fashion. MASK UP. Masks have become an essential day-to-day accessory al to in person ture was checked, had to wear a The Centers for Disease Con- for people across the world. In the next few months, which masks workout classes. mask at all times and was asked if trol and Prevention recommends are worth discovering and which are worth throwing out? Eva used to attend classes at she had any symptoms suggestive that the public still wear masks for SoulCycle about five times a week, of infection. the next few months, what kind of ly made and consistently used in vent throwing away face masks ev- but once the pandemic began, she Despite the enforced safety mask should you wear, and which a hospital setting,” senior Andrada ery day, the 3M Daily mask comes purchased a SoulCycle bike for her guidelines, Ashley said there are masks should you avoid? Nicolae said, “I feel confident that highly recommended and is worn house as a replacement. Despite frequently members at her gym Masks that are breathable are they are protective, which is some- throughout the Lab community. It being able to tune into live or pre- who don’t comply. essential but they still need lay- times less clear with cloth masks comes with an extra layer of pro- recorded classes and listen to sim- “Because it’s a gym connect- ers of filtration. A mask that is see- made by different brands.” tection across the face horizontal- ilar music as she would in a regular ed to a college, there are kids who through or a mask that can rip or Andrada also said that they are ly as well as vertically. SoulCycle class, doing the workout don’t care about COVID-19, and break easily is not recommended easy to fit around her nose and “The 3M daily style of mask alone separated her from the other they take off their masks, so I try to especially when one is reliant on stay securely on her face. works for me because it gives me SoulCycle riders. stay away from them because that that mask for the day. Since the CDC recommended in a little space to breathe without “When you’re in person it feels doesn’t make me the most com- KN-95: When it comes down to February that two masks are more a compromise for safety,” senior like you’re part of a community, fortable,” Ashley said. it, it doesn’t matter if your mask effective, some people wear a sur- Graham Waterstraat said. “Oth- but when you’re doing it online, Ashley also found it difficult to is covered with bright colors and gical mask as a base layer for their er masks have caused more irri- you feel like you have to work out,” complete the hot yoga class with glitter if the mask doesn’t actually other face coverings, usually be- tation for me, especially the chin Eva said. “It’s not like the process the enforced safety guidelines as work. The KN-95 mask is a popular cause people would appreciate and nose.” of going to the studio, meeting she had to wear a mask in a hot disposable mask, and can be used wearing a more stylish mask over This mask is super high on the people and changing your shoes room and didn’t have the instruc- for any event or outing. It’s not a the more basic model. comfort scale, and is reusable. in the locker room.” tor in the same room as her, but in- fashion statement but they are re- Under Armour Sportsmask: This mask keeps your face covered Kellen Townsend, a senior in- stead had to listen to instructions liable because of their cloth-like Under Armour masks are thick yet and comfortable at about $14 for a structor at SoulCycle, who is orig- on a loudspeaker. material and their laminated edg- breathable and are very well venti- three-pack. inally from St. Louis, teaches Mr. Townsend, on the other es that make for a sturdy, reliable lated. These $30 masks are becom- Athleta Mask: The Athleta face eight classes a week on a reduced hand, prefers the safety measures face covering. These masks usual- ing increasingly popular among mask is a $15 mask that is not only schedule due to the pandemic. because he can continue building ly come in black or white and are athletes as the sports seasons con- fashionable, but is also double lay- Mr. Townsend appreciates the in a close community and strong re- worn by those who choose to just tinue. Senior Danny Han wears an ered for extra protection. person classes as they have intro- lationships with the other SoulCy- wear a mask instead of a fashion- Under Armour mask every day to “The Athletica face mask’s nose duced him to numerous individu- cle riders. able accessory. You can buy these his practice. He said he is able to wire makes the mask fit really well, als from different backgrounds. “I like that the classes are small- in bulk and keep spares around. breathe in it very well during phys- and its double layers make it feel a “It’s been cool to build a commu- er right now because it lets me Surgical masks: You haven’t ical activity. lot safer,” senior Emelia Piane said. nity and get to know people since know people better, and it allows been seeing off-duty surgeons “They also dry very quickly and “Not to mention the wide variety everybody comes from a different for a less formal format in the around the city. Surgical masks don’t stay wet like other masks,” of fun colors.” lane in life,” Mr. Townsend said. “It’s class,” Mr. Townsend said. have been quite popular during Danny said. “The best part, Breathable fabric is a must for just a great way to learn more about Regardless, Ashley still prefers the current pandemic. Their light- though, is there is space in be- daily masks, so an Athletica mask different people and cultures and going in-person because she can weight and basic material has tween the mask and my mouth, so is a perfect choice for a fun mask see what Chicago looks like since build a similar community and made them a national favorite. I’m never breathing it in.” that comes in various sizes and I’m not from Chicago.” feels more motivated when sur- “Given that they are uniform- 3M Daily Face Mask: To pre- colors for any occasion. When the pandemic began, rounded by others. THURSDAY, MAY 6, 2021 20 • CITY LIFE U-HIGH MIDWAY • UNIVERSITY HIGH SCHOOL, CHICAGO RACIAL JUSTICE Community organizations demand reparations from university

by MEENA LEE Johnson said. “It will always fail if CONTENT MANAGER the victims or the survivors are not ince 1901, a bronze at the forefront of this conversa- plaque hung in Hutchin- tion.” son Commons on the The removal of the Douglas University of Chicago plaque last summer was an ex- campus, which honored ample of what happens if the uni- the contributions of Ste- versity does not consult any orga- Sphen Douglas, an Illinois politi- nizations. According to Mr. John- cian and lawyer. Last summer, the son, there was no communication university removed the plaque in from the university regarding the an attempt to condemn Douglas’ plaque and that no community historical ties to slavery. group had asked for it to be pulled While the university has tak- down. en the first steps to address pri- “Of course, it’s a good step in the or connections to Douglas, some right direction,” Mr. Johnson said. community organizations believe “But if you are just gonna do things that this act of symbolism is not without putting these different or- enough, arguing that recognition ganizations at the table, then you of the institution’s past must go a continue to have that chasm be- lot further. tween those different groups and Community organizations on between the university, and you the South Side argue that the con- really never unify because you’re nection between the universi- not doing it with cohesion.” ty, slavery and harm done to the MIDWAY PHOTO BY ELLIOTT TAYLOR Mr. Horton believes the univer- people on the South Side run a lot RACIST ROOTS? Until summer 2020, Hutchinson Commons on the University of Chicago’s campus sity community needs a deeper deeper than the university cur- displayed plaques honoring former Illinois senator Stephen Douglas, who had strong ties to slavery. reconciliation with its past of gen- rently acknowledges. In response trifying Hyde Park. to the university’s history, orga- “We need to talk about these ty to “The Old University of Chica- ter’s student at the Harris School to the university may have come nizations demand collaboration things, we need to have serious go,” which eventually fell into debt of Public Policy, works as organi- from Southern families who en- with the university for reparations talks about it, and the university and declared bankruptcy in 1866. zation liaison for the RAUC. Mr. slaved people. that will meet community needs. needs to encourage these talks,” In 1890, the current University of Johnson believes that even though “If we find that there are major Founded in 2017, the Repa- Mr. Horton said. “We need to get Chicago as it is known today was the University of Chicago is not benefactors of the University of rations at University of Chicago beyond lip service with diversity founded, without any official legal the only university in the country Chicago who come from South- Working Group, or RAUC, pub- and we need to get beyond sym- ties to Douglas. to owe reparations, it is in a unique ern families who owned slaves, lished a paper in 2018 exploring bolism. The university needs to go Even with these changes, the place to mend the harms it has who profited from slavery, then the ties between Sen. Douglas, much farther than it has.” RAUC argues in their paper that caused. we should pay reparations,” Mr. the Old University of Chicago, and The conversation about repara- “the University of Chicago owes its “We begin to analyze the uni- Horton said. “Some more research the current University of Chicago tions from universities has been entire existence to slavery.” versity’s own practices after slav- needs to be done about that be- founded in 1890. happening nationally for a few President Robert Zimmer dis- ery. You know — with racial re- yond Stephen Douglas.” In the article, the RAUC explains years. Schools such as George- puted this connection over the strictive covenance, with gentrifi- According to Mr. Johnson, rep- that Stephen Douglas, a congress- town University, University of Vir- summer after the RAUC argument cation, with UCPD — all of these arations could come in many man and later a Senator from Illi- ginia and Brown University have that the old and new universities abuses that have kind of subju- forms. They would likely be direct nois, in 1847 married into a South- taken steps toward reparations, yet were linked. Mr. Zimmer said that gated that community, the South reparations to the descendants of ern family that enslaved Black Mr. Johnson said the University of Douglas died in 1861, and had no Side,” Mr. Johnson said. “It really those enslaved by Douglas, or in- people in Mississippi. He amassed Chicago has not recognized the ef- ties with the current University of has the potential and the grounds vestments into the South Side a huge profit from this exploita- forts of the RAUC or other organi- Chicago founded in 1890. to do something that’s never been community focused on education, tion, began buying real estate in Il- zations. Though it was a new institution done before, but is still owed.” housing and healthcare. The most linois and purchased land in what “It really doesn’t make sense that by name and by law, half of the U-High history teacher Paul important aspect is that repara- is now Bronzeville. In 1855, he do- they would not acknowledge our new university’s board members Horton believes that although the tions are organized not just by the nated this land to the new insti- presence, not acknowledge our ef- had direct ties to the Old Universi- university has no legal obligation university, but by the community. tution of University of Chicago. forts,” Mr. Johnson said. “Because, ty. Additionally, it had many of the to pay reparations, it has a moral “It kind of looks like charity be- Though gaining land allowed the at the end of the day, it makes the same donors, faculty and resourc- and ethical obligation, especially cause they’re deciding what they university to build legitimacy and university stronger when it recog- es as the Old University, and they if money from the Doulgas estate want to do, if they want to do it, connect with more donors, ties to nizes this past harm and strength- were essential in building the uni- had been donated to the universi- how much they want to give, but Douglas ultimately damaged the ens its own institutions by repair- versity’s prestigious legacy. ty founded in 1890. He also noted that defeats the purpose of what university’s reputation. The board ing those harms.” David Johnson, a first-year mas- that it was possible that donations the repair is supposed to be,” Mr. decided to rename the universi- First published on March 3, 2021. Vital Bridges food pantry continues service in pandemic

by GRACE HOLLEB One volunteer helping Vital the pandemic have they contin- FEATURES EDITOR Bridges continue to serve custom- ued this procedure. Pre-pandemic, Saturday morn- ers throughout the pandemic is “I was so glad to hear that that ings at Vital Bridges, the Engle- Dawn Stanislaw, who began vol- came back into play,” Mr. Hoskins wood food pantry for people af- unteering in 2008. Through her said. “It made a tremendous differ- fected by HIV/AIDS, would feel time, she has shopped, helped Mr. ence.” like a family reunion. Friends Hoskins with organizing, entered Ms. Stanislaw agrees that regu- would greet each other with bear all the menus into the comput- lar contact with customers is mak- hugs, and the characteristic smile er and now does almost all of Vital ing the biggest difference in get- of James Hoskins, food program Bridges’ paperwork and extra tasks ting clients to return to the pantry. coordinator, could light up the each week. For now, Vital Bridges is doing face of any customer. “It’s changed a lot now that the the best they can with the resourc- Post-pandemic, few volunteers pantry is closed to clients coming es allotted to them and are con- roam the building, packing food into the building,” Ms. Stanislaw tinuing efforts to contact custom- for contactless pickup. Some reg- said. “All I do is check the paper- ers. ular clients aren’t even aware that MIDWAY PHOTO BY ELLIOTT TAYLOR work before clients are able to pick “It’s amazing how word of Vital Bridges has survived since STOCKED UP. The Vital Bridges food pantry in Englewood is up their food. All the interaction mouth really spreads among the March. filled with essential food supplies for people affected by HIV/AIDS. and helping clients select food, clients,” Ms. Stanislaw said. “Once While food pantries through- all of that has gone away for right you can get in and pick your food I out the United States have had a now, which is terrible.” think we’re going to have an uptick get their food and fear the effects and we will be able to reopen the considerable uptick in number When the pandemic hit, ma- of clients again. I’m hoping.” of contracting COVID-19 while al- pantry on Saturdays,” Mr. Hoskins of customers, Vital Bridges is see- ny clients just assumed the pantry While there isn’t the jovial at- ready immunocompromised. To said. ing half as many use their services was closed. Many don’t have their mosphere that Vital Bridges was combat these obstacles, employ- Now, clients can pick up food — around 250 down from 500, ac- own cars and have to use public known for pre-pandemic, the ees and volunteers have switched from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m on cording to Mr. Hoskins. The de- transportation, so it was difficult work of volunteers and staff mem- their tactics to communicate more Thursdays and Fridays, where- crease in customers has led to new to travel and get food safely, ac- bers continue nonetheless to pre- directly with customers and start- as earlier they would also be able measures being taken to keep the cording to Ms. Stanislaw. serve their mission of helping all ed delivering food to homes in or- to pick up on Saturdays. Custom- community afloat. To get the word out that Vi- customers. And soon enough, Mr. der to continue their mission of ers are not allowed inside the pan- Beyond the problems that tal Bridges is still serving custom- Hoskins will greet old clients and helping customers live healthy, in- try, and contactless pick up is re- many small businesses experi- ers in all areas of need, volunteers newcomers with his characteristic dependent lives with the disease quired. For clients unable to pick enced through the pandemic, Vi- have been calling each client on smile and the same three words: they have. up food on the weekdays yet des- tal Bridges has been dealing with their list every week. Vital Bridges “Get over here!” followed by a big “I hope with this vaccine now perately need it, Vital Bridges unique issues. Many Vital Bridg- used to call clients, but stopped for hug. that things will open up a little bit works to deliver the food. es clients do not have a safe way to confidentiality reasons. Only since First published on Jan. 29, 2021. THURSDAY, MAY 6, 2021 U-HIGH MIDWAY • UNIVERSITY HIGH SCHOOL, CHICAGO CITY LIFE • 21 Chicago Latinx communities face HIT HARD: challenges combatting pandemic by ELLA BEISER EDITOR–IN–CHIEF With citywide COVID-19 posi- tivity rates beginning to fall at last, for many the end of the pandemic seems within reach. However, pos- itivity rates within Chicago’s Latinx communities have remained high at 8.5%, more than two times the citywide positivity rate, according to the City of Chicago COVID-19 dashboard. Senior Veronica Godina, pres- ident of Latinos Unidos, has seen the effects of the high positivity rates on her neighborhood, Brigh- ton Park, on the city’s southwest side. “Basically, all of our neighbors are essential workers,” Veronica said. “My dad works in the meat- packing industry. The rates of in- fection at those factories is insane. Most of our neighbors are also fac- tory workers. There’s really no one around that has the luxury of stay- ing at home to do work, because they’re factory jobs, you have to go there.” As a result of her father’s job, Veronica and her family got MIDWAY PHOTO BY ELLIOTT TAYLOR COVID-19 earlier this year. PAINTING POWER . A colorful mural covers the wall of a building in the Pilsen neighborhood, located on the Lower West Side of “The way that my dad’s job is Chicago. With nearly 30,000 Latinx residents, the Pilsen is one of Chicago’s primarily Latinx neighborhoods. handling things, it’s very easy to get infected and there’s not very ity rates are in those communities. they’re embarrassed about their much space for social distancing,” “Culturally, Latinx households “The main thing that the city can do to build trust is make English skills.” Veronica said. “I wish we had the tend to be multigenerational,” Ve- the COVID information more accessible to people who don’t Reaching out to people at their luxury of my dad not being able to ronica said. “Even though not all of speak English at COVID testing centers.” jobs is another possible option, ac- go to work and he could take some them are 65-plus or they’re not all — VERONICA GODINA cording to Veronica. time off. Unfortunately, that’s not high risk, it’s very important to be- “Another way they could do it is possible.” gin vaccinating them, because, if like by having workers of the city Referencing the 2020 Nation- not, the rates of infection are going mented, which adds another layer them to let them know that it’s OK, go to the jobs, the factories and al Health Interview Survey by to continue to increase because in of mistrust in the vaccination pro- that they reach out and they can have representatives speak there, the U.S. Census Bureau, Spanish one household, it’s not four peo- cess. go — they can get vaccinated,” Ms. speak to the people,” Veronica teacher Dinah D’Antoni said that ple getting infected, depending “There’s this distrust of the gov- D’Antoni said. said, “so that the workers can have during the pandemic the num- on how many people live in your ernment knowing your name, ba- The office of Alderman George their questions answered is anoth- ber of Latinx people reporting household, it’s like six, eight peo- sically just being very wary of ev- Cardenas, whose 12th Ward in- er great way to do it.” feelings of depression was double ple.” erything,” Veronica said. “They cludes Brighton Park, has compiled Dr. D’Antoni also believes that that of white people. Additionally, However, the task is not simple. don’t want to give their informa- resources to help educate and mit- as more Latinx people begin to get the survey found that 40% of Lat- “My parents, they’re immi- tion over when trying to get a igate the spread of COVID-19. Oth- vaccinated, trust will increase in inx people reported an increase grants from Mexico, and they’re COVID test. And when they have er Aldermen have also provided re- the vaccine. in substance use, in contrast with very skeptical of the vaccine. And to fill out the race and stuff like sources for their communities. “I think the most important 15% of other respondents. it took a lot of explaining it to them that, the immediate question is: According to Veronica, a critical thing is to be equitable across Despite this, of the 100,000 peo- because there’s a lot of mistrust in Who’s going to get this informa- element to the success of the city’s the board and reach out to these ple vaccinated in Chicago, over medical stuff,” Veronica said. “A tion? Why do you want it?” efforts is making information ac- communities that are underpriv- half are white, and just 17% are lot of people have had the experi- To remedy this distrust, Dr. cessible in Spanish. ileged,” Dr. D’Antoni said. “People Latinx according to an article in ence where they’re not taken se- D’Antoni said elected officicals “The main thing that the city of color, minorities, reach out to the Chicago Sun-Times. riously, especially when they’re should work with community or- can do to build trust is make the them, let them know: Yes, the vac- Veronica believes the city should Spanish-speaking people and they ganizations and nonprofits to COVID information more acces- cine is free, yes, it doesn’t matter be vaccinating communities of don’t have anyone they can com- spread information about the vac- sible to people who don’t speak if you’re documented or undocu- color even if they don’t fall into municate with.” cine. English at COVID testing cen- mented. It doesn’t matter. Reach the current 1B eligibility group be- Veronica said many people in “They explain the benefits and ters,” Veronica said. “I know some out and get vaccinated.” cause of how much higher positiv- her neighborhood are undocu- the advantages, and they help people don’t want to go because First published on Feb. 16, 2021. StreetWise changes face of homlessness in Chicago by ADRIANNA NEHME uals for finding jobs. He also ap- taking your wallet? I think this is ASSISTANT EDITOR preciated that the organization the better option for me.” “ The whole thing is about Lee A. Holmes repeats the provides vendors with basic ne- According to Mr. Holmes, that how do I get an individual phrase for what might just be the cessities such as food. same woman was inspired by his that won’t acknowledge hundredth time that day: “Would What he found most valuable words and became one of his loy- me and won’t speak to me you like to purchase a copy of were the countless hours he spent al customers. StreetWise?” working on the streets. Mr. Holmes Since vendors at StreetWise in- to buy a magazine from People walk right past him. They constantly discovered new ways dependently sell the magazine me and become a loyal pretend not to notice his green to attract individuals to purchase and are in control of their own customer, so every day or apron loaded with the latest edi- from him. profits, Mr. Holmes has picked up tion of the StreetWise magazine – “The whole thing is about how skills to expand his passion in en- every other day you have to yet Mr. Holmes, a StreetWise ven- do I get an individual that won’t trepreneurship, which began at a recreate your whole self.” dor, remains unflustered and con- acknowledge me and won’t speak young age. — LEE A. HOLMES tinues with his spirited pitch. to me to buy a magazine from me “I was more interested in trad- By presenting vendors like Mr. and become a loyal customer,” Mr. ing papers and was very fascinat- I feel like I am a little bit more sta- Holmes with employment oppor- Holmes said. “So every day or ev- ed about buying something for ble,” Ms. Green said. tunities, StreetWise has simul- ery other day you have to recreate one price and selling it at anoth- For the future, Patrick Edwards, taneously provided many with a your whole self.” er price,” Mr. Holmes said. “I was executive assistant of StreetWise, life outside of homelessness and However, attracting custom- able to generate or make money hopes individuals who buy the changed perceptions about the ers was often difficult for Mr. off of the little money that I had.” magazine actually read it, and view homeless. Holmes, since many refused to Although his business was suc- StreetWise as the vendor’s business When a vendor joins StreetWise, MIDWAY PHOTO BY ADRIANNA NEHME purchase from him based on the cessful, he had no concept for fi- rather than solely a donation. they undergo an orientation, and A HAND UP. Lee A. Holmes negative perception surrounding nancial planning. After joining “Aside from the support for the as a reward are provided with 15 poses outside of a Mariano’s in the homeless community. Street- StreetWise, he learned how to bud- vendors, I want you to feel as if free magazines to sell. After the Wise hopes that vendors can form get his money and spend it on es- you got more than $2 worth of in- orientation, vendors pay 90 cents Roscoe Village, holding an old connections with those who pass sential items. formation and experience what I for a magazine and sell them for edition of StreetWise magazine. by and help to alter these percep- Mr. Holmes has since recruited like to call goodness,” Mr. Edwards $2, keeping the $1.10 along with tions. others to join StreetWise as ven- said. tips. Topics in the magazine range tions at one of their old headquar- “I had a young lady come up to dors, including his new business When his shift is over, Mr. from local news to profiles and ters, and I was, like, ‘This is a scam, me and ask me what rehab center partner Paula Green, who he met Holmes packs his things and columns. who does this?’” Mr. Holmes said. I came out of, and I looked at her through family. Ms. Green sells the leaves the streets. However, his While Mr. Holmes was familiar Despite Mr. Holmes’s initial like, ‘Does it look like I am a drug magazine and also takes pictures work is not finished. He returns to with StreetWise long before, he on- doubt, he immersed himself in or alcohol addict or something?’” for it, which has helped guide her the area he resides to brainstorm ly joined after experiencing home- the organization’s programs such Mr. Holmes said. “Would you rath- down a good track. possibilities to increase sales for lessness. as the Transition to Employment er have me have these magazines “I was basically homeless, and I the following day. “I went to one of their orienta- Program, which prepares individ- in my hand or a gun in my hand didn’t have any direction, but now First published on Feb. 5, 2021. THURSDAY, MAY 6, 2021 22 • IN-DEPTH U-HIGH MIDWAY • UNIVERSITY HIGH SCHOOL, CHICAGO Cheating during Test Tension: hybrid learning Until March 2020, assessments were taken with pen and paper, under a time limit and the watchful eye of a teacher. With distance learning, everything changed. The Midway spoke with students, faculty and an administrator about how testing and cheating changed with distance and hybrid learning. First published on March 17, 2021

MIDWAY ART BY ALINA SUSANI Academic standards, challenges lead to cheating

by LUCIA KOURI notes that they’re looking at. “I think many students think it’s adjustments teachers make. CITY LIFE CO-EDITOR “Google is my friend,” Student A justified to use outside resourc- “ The administration’s not “If students are going to cheat, The Midway spoke with five stu- said. “Yeah, I know it’s wrong, but es, especially their notes, because fully at fault, teachers are they’re going to cheat. Teachers dents about testing and cheating in the end it helps me get a bet- they believe that everyone else is not fully at fault, students can’t build in the fact that students in U-High’s distance learning envi- ter grade, which helps with a bet- doing it,” Student C said. are not fully at fault. It’s are going to cheat on their tests,” ronment. Some of their names were ter GPA.” But these social pressures do Will said. withheld in this story. While pressure to meet high ac- not extend to every corner of the just a bad situation overall, Though Will has not had partic- ademic standards has long been school. Sophomore Ameya Deo, and I think it has affected ular trouble in remote learning, he encil, eraser, paper and two felt by students at Lab, accord- who takes the majority of his tests and it will continue to noted that students who are strug- pages of blank questions ing to Student A, distance learn- on Zoom, has not noticed a ten- gling academically have much waiting to be answered. ing amplifies this pressure by giv- dency to cheat among peers. affect our educational more incentive to cheat. PThe clock ticks. Close by lie ing students an alternative and “I don’t see people like asking, experience — for some more “There are a lot of people who notes, Google and a phone full of direct path toward better grades — ‘Hey, do you want to compare an- than others.” are struggling significantly more, contacts. For many students fac- one that is particularly compelling swers?’” Ameya said. “Whenev- — WILL TRONE, JUNIOR and people who have become reli- ing a challenging test and little su- for people like Student B, a soph- er that does happen, it’s after the ant on cheating over remote learn- pervision, the option is clear. omore who feels like they simply deadline, but there’s definitely no ple know what I did, and when it’s ing, like, I could see that being, you While some students continue aren’t absorbing material as easily communication during tests or wrong — I get embarrassed.” know, a problem — and not nec- to consider testing a crucial com- remotely compared to in-person quizzes in class — people just ar- Ameya believes that even if essarily a problem that’s all their ponent of a quality education, learning. en’t comfortable with that.” cheating has become a more com- fault,” Will said. “I think there’s a pressure to meet Lab’s high ac- “I guess it’s much harder to pay According to Student A, aca- mon occurrence, testing should lot of blame being thrown around ademic standards, difficulty ab- attention in class, and then I al- demic dishonesty often isn’t some- remain in the curriculum. that isn’t necessarily warranted.” sorbing material over Zoom and so know that if I ask someone a thing people speak openly about. “The best thing I feel like teach- According to Will, academic dis- access to limitless resources on the question, I won’t necessarily get While some delve into the social ers should do is maintain normal- honesty isn’t an issue of right and internet have led many to resort to caught,” Student B said. “It’s kind aspects of cheating — like Face- cy, and testing and quizzes is a part wrong that can be blamed on one — and rely on — cheating. of just like I have all the resources, Timing or texting friends — others, of the curriculum,” Ameya said. “It specific group — it is much more Like many, most of Student A’s you know, and it’s very easy — es- like Student A, cheat alone, fearing also takes away kind of the inten- complicated. tests are open notes, a tactic that pecially when you don’t necessari- judgment of peers that do not ap- siveness of the curriculum, some- “The administration’s not ful- some teachers have adopted, hop- ly know the material well.” pear to be cheating themselves. thing Lab really prides itself on — ly at fault, teachers are not ful- ing to discourage cheating by al- According to Student C, a junior, “When a student cheats, it’s be- without tests and quizzes, I don’t ly at fault, students are not fully at lowing students to use their notes cheating has also increased in dis- cause they know they can. They really have an incentive to remem- fault,” Will said. “It’s just a bad sit- to answer more difficult questions. tance learning because of social know if they don’t, they will fail, or ber a whole lot.” uation overall, and I think it has af- However, when the time comes for changes, and the feeling that it is because they don’t want to be the Junior Will Trone believes some fected and it will continue to affect Student A, a junior, to sit down and all right to cheat if friends are do- only student who didn’t do good,” students’ tendency to cheat will our educational experience — for take a test — it’s not just their own ing it too. Student B said. “But when peo- not go away, no matter how many some more than others.” To limit cheating, faculty adjust testing practices

by COLIN LESLIE continue to do so. He said the memorizing it, which makes it less questions that are very unique and worthwhile, rather than using it as REPORTER increased possibility of cheat- useful to use the internet to seek things you can’t Google, at least for an excuse to give a locked-down Before March 2020, most test- ing during distance learning has answers. Additionally, to try to al- my AT Chemistry class,” Dr. Hund assessment where I know stu- ing situations looked the same. not affected his plans for testing leviate the temptation to use out- said. dents can’t cheat, because the oth- A teacher would pass out a test, during hybrid learning. side resources, all of her tests are While he hopes his students er thing, too, is half of my students sit down at their desk and keep “I’m assuming that people are now open note. would turn to their notes before are going to be remote, so there’s a watchful eye on any conversa- not cheating, but if they are cheat- “What sets sci- the internet when stuck on a ques- no way to give everyone the same tions or phone usage during any ing that’s their business and even- entists apart is tion, Dr. Hund said he and teach- test anyway,” Dr. Hund said. 45-minute assessment. tually they’ll get caught for it and their ability to ing colleague Kenny Fournilli- U-High principal Paul Beek- But during the last year, dis- be punished,” Mr. Janus said. “It’s digest scientif- er have taken steps to reduce the meyer said he hopes in-person tance learning has made it easy not something I shape my teach- ic information stress of testing so students feel learning will be enjoyable for all for students to cheat: to take a test ing philosophy around.” and apply it and less inclined to cheat. students who choose to return. on their computer while another Science teacher Elizabeth Hubin really have sci- “With Chemistry C, Dr. Four- “As always, assessment is set by browser tab is open, or to text their has used Schoology to test during entific literacy,” nillier and I decided to drop the the teachers in the department. friend asking for help on a chal- synchronous class sessions this Dr. Hubin said. percentages pretty significant- As a school, I encourage us all lenging question. year. During hybrid learning, Dr. Elizabeth “None of that is ly in terms of how much an exam to have a healthy balance be- Academic dishonesty has be- Hubin plans to continue this as- Hubin memorization; counts for,” Dr. Hund said. “Hope- tween coursework, assessments come easier during distance learn- sessment form, with tests only on it’s about really fully, knowing that an exam really and room just to be together and ing, and while the transition to days that all students are remote. digging deeper into material.” ends up actually being less than a have fun as a community,” Mr. some in-person classes could be “I think that there’s better ways Similarly, science teacher Zach- homework, I would hope, encour- Beekmeyer said. used to supervise some students of spending [in-person class- ary Hund said the uniqueness of ages less students to cheat or think So while these tabs may stay more closely during tests, some es] than just sitting and taking a his test questions reduces the ef- about cheating.” open and these conversations U-High teachers and an adminis- test, so while I’ll still continue to fectiveness of outside resources. Like Dr. Hubin, Dr. Hund does may continue to happen, the goal trator do not view that as hybrid have tests, I’m going to have them His tests are also all open note. not plan to use in-person classes for teachers in the format of hy- learning’s main purpose. during our Zoom classes,” Dr. “I would like to think that my for tests. Instead, his classes will brid learning is not to become a History teacher Christopher Ja- Hubin said. students are not using the inter- do experiments. watchful eye over tests, but rather nus said he prefers to test all stu- Dr. Hubin said her tests focus net to search for answers, which “I am more worried about mak- to capitalize on the opportunities dents at the same time, and will on applying material rather than also goes into why I try to make ing the in-person experience presented by in-person classes. THURSDAY, MAY 6, 2021 U-HIGH MIDWAY • UNIVERSITY HIGH SCHOOL, CHICAGO IN-DEPTH • 23 Struggling in Solitude

MIDWAY ART BY AMON GRAY Isolated at home, teenagers and adults alike are bored and looking for excitement. For some, drugs and alcohol seem like the escape. Without published data on how substance use relates to the pandemic, the Midway sought a clear picture of student use since March. First published on Dec. 11, 2020 Experts unclear on teen substance use trends by CAROLINE HOHNER been coming to the counselors chiatry and behavioral neurosci- teen substance use as influenced to reach out to resources that they ARTS CO-EDITOR for help dealing with heightened ence at the University of Chicago by the pandemic. have available to them,” Mr. Brun- ith students managing anxiety and depression during the and a Lab parent. A study published in August by er said. “That might be family, that U-High’s large workload, pandemic. Despite this, she said “We don’t know a whole lot be- the Centers for Disease Control could certainly be the counselors Wisolated from their social no students have reached out to cause it takes time to get really and Prevention showed the pan- here at school, other adults that circles and under the stress of liv- her about substance use. good data and have it published, demic had the greatest impact on they’re close with and even their ing through a global health crisis, This lack of communication is and peer reviewed, and all those the mental health of young adults friends to some extent, especial- it takes no stretch of the imagina- not new. Ms. Choi said in her four things. So I know, these data are ages 18-24, with nearly 63% of re- ly friends who are able to engage tion to count substance use as one years at U-High, she has only talk- being collected,” Dr. King said. spondents in this age group re- with them in healthy ways.” of the many impacted behaviors of ed about substance use with two Even with hard data, it could be porting symptoms of anxiety or Dr. King suggested that students U-High students. students. difficult to pin down a definitive depression related to the pandem- struggling with addiction avoid Yet, given a lack of statistics on Just because students have not trend. According to Dr. King, the ic, and around 24.7% turning to substance-using friends who ar- teen substance reached out to the high school impacts of the coronavirus on a substance use as a main coping en’t similarly committed to getting use during the counselors does not mean they teen’s life and substance use hab- mechanism. clean and look into online resourc- pandemic and have avoided substance use alto- its vary geographically. Risk factors A recent study of 3,300 high es like Partnership to End Addic- seeming silence gether. The 2020 wellness survey such as poverty and drug availabil- school students published by tion or talk to trusted adults. between stu- reported that 34% of U-High stu- ity may also lead to various behav- America’s Promise Alliance According to Dr. King, setting dents and high dents have had more than a few iors among teens. showed that 30% of respondents up time away from a substance school counsel- sips of alcohol, 22% have used va- “So there’s probably going to reported feeling depressed or un- can also help students experiment ors on the issue, por products and 21% have used end up being a mixed bag of some happy, while 29% felt disconnect- with finding alternative coping it’s hard to tell marijuana. kids who might have gone on and ed from their school communities. mechanisms. exactly how stu- The high school counselors ar- used substances this year who ar- U-High counselor Miche- “I suggest at least one month to Andrea dents’ relation- en’t the only ones finding them- en’t using them,” Dr. King said. al Bruner is concerned about the give enough time to make these King ships with sub- selves in the dark about how teens “That may be good, and it could new role isolation plays in teen lifestyle changes, and three or stances like alco- are using substances right now. delay the onset. And for others, it substance use, and encourages more months is even better,” Dr. hol, e-cigarettes and other drugs There aren’t many published stud- could deepen maybe some dis- students to seek support. King said. “Many find that they has changed in the past eight ies on the topic, so knowledge di- turbing trends they already had.” “Many students are reporting have better alternatives and de- months during a pandemic and rectly about teenage substance Despite the lack of specific data, feeling disconnected. So I certain- cide using drugs makes them feel distance learning. use trends during the pandemic is figures on general nationwide sub- ly worry about those things and worse in the long run and having According to high school coun- also mainly speculative, according stance use and mental health may my hope is that students, if they’re this time away from using helps to selor Aria Choi, students have to Andrea King, professor of psy- provide a slightly clearer picture of feeling those things, they’re able make that clear.” Bored, desperate for stimulation, students turn to substances by AN NGO endless hours of boredom and loss perienced withdrawal symptoms. pre-pandemic habits and still con- ASSISTANT EDITOR of a normal teen experience. “I felt so sick,” she said. “I “ I just saw how much my sume with their friends, but from Five U-High students, each a Spurred by boredom, some stu- couldn’t eat without getting sick, friends hated seeing me the safety of their own homes. For current or former substance user, dents are curious about trying and my body ached so much.” like that, and that hurt me. Junior B, who wants to let loose agreed to speak with the Midway drugs and alcohol and having their Prior to the start of distance Hearing my friends share and escape the monotony her on the condition that their names first experiences alone at home. learning last March, Junior A said home life, Zoom calls with her be withheld. One ninth grader said though she was smoking marijuana and their concern for me, that friends are a way to get drunk, get she had tasted some wine with using hallucinogens regularly, but made me cry.” high and have fun. Get up. Attend classes. Log off. her parents, her first time drinking ever since, she’s started drinking — JUNIOR B “It would basically just be bring Finish homework. Sleep. Repeat. without the consent of her parents alcohol more frequently and using your choice of substance,” she For most students, every day has was by herself, in her room as she harder drugs like opioids, cocaine said. “Then we would just talk felt like this since school began in planned an all-nighter for school and MDMA. One such sophomore feels that and show up and play games and September. This routine quick- work in November. Craving excite- Stuck at home, her use escalat- the constant uncertainty of the whatever.” ly became dull, leading people to ment, she went downstairs to her ed because drugs and alcohol be- pandemic encourages him to Having fun with her friends on seek excitement. parents’ liquor cabinet. came something she could look to make the most of his time with his Zoom may restore a bit of nor- “Reality was just kind of boring, “I was bored,” she said about her for entertainment. friends. malcy, but she anticipates that af- and that made me want to alter my first time trying vodka. “I was like, She decided to stop using pills “You don’t know if you’re go- ter the pandemic she will use alco- reality by doing drugs,” one senior ‘Ooh, let me be crazy’ and I’m like, when her friend intervened. ing to be hanging out with your hol and marijuana more frequent- said. ‘Have some of the vodka.’” “I just saw how much my friends friends for a while, because you ly than before. For every student, substance use For students who used sub- hated seeing me like that, and that don’t know if cases are going to “I feel like I spent so much looks different — the substances, stances pre-pandemic, their sub- hurt me, hearing my friends share start getting worse.You don’t know time before quarantine just be- the volume, the context, the rea- stance usage increased. Junior A’s their concern for me, that made if your parents will make you lock ing stressed out about school,” son — and it has only diversified use escalated dramatically until me cry,” she said. down at home and you won’t she said. “Now that I’m in quaran- since the March stay-at-home or- she decided to stop using pills. While Junior A’s substance use be able to go out and see your tine, I’ve realized school is not ev- der took affect. “I’m 17 days clean from pills. So changed due to a friend’s interven- friends,” he said. “When you’re erything, and I want to be able to But months of the pandem- that’s pretty cool,” Junior A said. “I tion, for some students who only with your friends, you don’t want have fun with my friends whenev- ic have brought one commonali- didn’t realize how bad my situation drank and smoked in social con- to miss that opportunity.” er I can, because it’s important to ty to many teen users: substances was until I stopped taking them.” texts, isolation has interrupted Meanwhile, other students cherish the moment, and that’s the feel like a remedy to the seemingly She explained that she even ex- their substance use habits. have found ways to mimic their biggest change.” THURSDAY, MAY 6, 2021 24 • IN-DEPTH U-HIGH MIDWAY • UNIVERSITY HIGH SCHOOL, CHICAGO

MIDWAY ILLUSTRATION BY ALINA SUSANI Hours of driving, long lines, sore arms and knockout side effects: students, desperate for a vaccine and a return to normalcy, have weathered a logistical and at times emotional storm in search of the COVID-19 vaccine. Students feel relief, guilt Pfizer frenzy: and stress after vaccine by AMANDA CASSEL EDITOR-IN-CHIEF crolling through Instagram stories, What ninth graders one image has become increasing- ly common — the vaccine card. But think about vaccines Sbefore COVID-19 vaccines became 26% 4 available to all Chicago residents age 16 The number of Gen Z people who The number of months until it’s Myles Cobb, ninth grader: “Well it’s dif- and older on April 12, some U-High stu- said in March they would not get the possible for children 6 and older to be ficult knowing that I’m just one year dents desperately entered vaccine lotteries, vaccinated according to Dr. Anthony too young to get ‘vaxxed.’ Knowing that looked for extra doses at pharmacies and COVID-19 vaccine, according to an NBC-Morning Consult poll. Fauci, White House chief medical leads to so many things is hard, but I ventured to Indiana and rural Illinois for a adviser. guess just being patient is the thing I vaccination. need to do right now.” Despite eagerly searching for vaccine dos- es, upon actually receiving their first doses, Sasha Duda, ninth grader: “Well yeah, students felt combinations of excitement I’m 15 so I can’t get ‘vaxxed’ yet, but I and guilt, and now they say they feel relief. think that it’s really good that other peo- In early March senior Sana Shahul began ple are getting ‘vaxxed.’ It’s been a whole to see on social media that her peers were 323.5 year since we’ve had some sort of nor- The average number of daily doses The age of the16 youngest Chicago getting vaccinated. She started looking for malcy in the world, so people getting appointments online. administered to children under age 18 citizens eligible for the COVID-19 ‘vaxxed’ is a great step in the right di- “I first tried to look the same way my peers in Chicago in April, according to the vaccine as of April 19. rection. I mean, it does kinda suck that were getting vaccinated, going far away, try- City of Chicago COVID-19 dashboard. us freshmen can’t get ‘vaxxed’ yet, but ing to get extra doses,” Sana said. “And then, there have been so many reports about coincidentally, I got a mass text by one of my it getting much closer to our turn, which guess is, like, fine by me, but it was nice to friends that was like, ‘Go to Gary (Indiana) “ I wanted to get vaccinated so I I think is really awesome.” right now to get your vaccine if you’re un- know I was getting an extra vaccine. Like, I wasn’t taking it from someone else.” could see my friends again and just der 18.’” Chloe Hurst, ninth grader: “I think that Similarly, junior Will Trone wanted to According to Sana, once she filled out the feel safe in general, and know I’m the more people that get vaccinated make sure he was getting an extra vaccine, medical and eligibility forms with her par- not going to give it to my parents. the better — I know that there are peo- rather than taking it from someone who was ents, the process was easy. On April 7, Sana ple that are more high risk than me that already eligible, because he wasn’t yet. I definitely felt guilty, a little bit, drove the half hour across the state line to should definitely get vaccinated before “Personally, a little bit selfishly, I wanted Gary, Indiana, and found the mass vaccina- because I know the distributions of me. My family is vaccinated, so it makes to get vaccinated so I could see my friends tion site operated by the Federal Emergency vaccines is a huge equity issue that me feel a lot better, but when I am able again and just feel safe in general, and know Management Agency almost empty. to get vaccinated I will.” I’m not going to give it to my parents,” Will is affecting people of color mainly.” Ardith Huhner, a junior, didn’t hear about — WILL TRONE, said. “I definitely felt guilty, a little bit, be- how her peers were getting vaccinated until Mason List, ninth grader: “So I’m cur- cause I know the distributions of vaccines is it became a topic in class. rently 15, which means I just barely a huge equity issue that is affecting people distancing from friends at school in the hall- “I didn’t have social media before, so I don’t qualify for the vaccine. It’s pret- of color mainly.” ways and between classes is challenging, so didn’t realize people were getting it un- ty frustrating to see people just barely Since getting their first doses, many stu- for her, being even partially vaccinated has til people started talking about it in class,” older than me being able to get the vac- dents have characterized themselves as be- reduced a lot of stress in that area. Ardith said. “Tons of people were getting it, cine and return a little bit more to their ing much more comfortable in public. Both “[Distancing] is difficult regardless of if and it was like, ‘Oh how can I get it, too?’” regular lives while I’m stuck without it. I Orla and Will had decided to remain remote you have the vaccine or not — to stay apart Once Ardith got on social media, she saw have heard, however, that Pfizer is work- earlier in the spring, but after receiving their from your friends when you’re talking to an abundance of information about how ing toward being able to get 12-15 year first vaccine doses, both opted into hybrid them,” Izzy said. “Personally, I’ve had a lot of students could get vaccinated. olds vaccinated, which is really exciting learning . anxiety about it, so for me the idea of being “I was only seeing registration informa- news.” tion on social media,” Ardith said. “Noth- Orla said, “I just feel more comfortable vaccinated is really exciting and really com- going out. My parents and family are all vac- forting.” ing was on the news like that. There weren’t Ella Cohen Richie, ninth grader: “It’s a cinated.” Since Sana got her first dose, she’s been adults broadcasting where to find it.” little disappointing, but it’s OK since we Despite being vaccinated, Orla still plans more comfortable doing high risk activities Senior Orla Malloy got her vaccination ap- should be able to get ours by this sum- social distance and be careful in public. she hasn’t done since before the pandemic. pointment through a lottery of extra vacci- mer. I think that it will be less stressful “I’m still going to wear a mask, because it’s “I’m trying not to let up my guard as nations at the University of Chicago. For Or- since I know that I have it, but I’m prob- selfish not to,” Orla said. “Even if it’s harder much. I’ve eaten indoors for the first time. la, the fact that it was a vaccine that would ably gonna maintain at least a good dis- to spread the virus, there’s still that sense of I know I’m not fully vaccinated, but I think otherwise go unused made her feel much tance from people with and without the social responsibility. But anyway, school just the other part of me is like, this is the big- less guilty about getting vaccinated before vaccine.” her group became eligible. felt safer now that I’m vaccinated.” gest step toward normalcy ever,” Sana said. “I got it through the university lottery sys- Izzy Caffarelli, a junior who has been go- “Now it’s all about holding down the fort — COMPILED BY NICKY EDWARDS-LEVIN tem with people turning it down, which I ing to school in person since March, said and getting ready to travel.”