Not in Lauv

“I Like Me Better” artist releases new single in anticipation of upcoming album. The debut episode of “Social Buddies,” a Honest opinion? We liked Lauv’s previous podcast hosted by Social Studies teachers work better. Lawler, Robinson, and Suess, broke 100 Read the review of Lauv’s most recent track streams within 24 hours of being published. “Tattoos Together” and the album preview Read about the new podcast on Page 6. of ~how i’m feeling~ on Page 3.

3900 E. Raab Road, Normal, Illinois, 61761 February 2020 Volume 72, Issue II Get‘ -d’ in Theatre program presents murder-mystery comedy Jessalyn Baer; Jaxon Creasey; Jillian Murphy Staff Reporters Dinner at a mansion turns into a hunt for a killer. Perhaps it was Miss Scarlett in the study with a pistol? Or could it be Colonel Mustard in the conservatory with a lead pipe? Discover who committed the most heinous crime - murder - as NCHS Theatre presents the classic whodunit in the upcoming production of Clue The play, which follows the structure of the well-known board game, was adapted for the stage by one of the screenwriters of the 1985 movie of the same name starring Tim Curry (The Rocky Horror Picture Show; Home Alone 2) and Christopher Lloyd (Back to the Future trilogy). “You’re trying to figure out who did the murder in what room with what weapon,” Ms. Kevin Vernon, Theatre director, said. Nathanael Rardin (‘20), who plays Mr. Green in the production, describes the play as a “murder-mystery comedy”- a genre that works for the whole family. The plot revolves around “six people who show up to a mansion... have a little dinner [and] people die,” Rardin said. Vernon praised the ensemble cast, including Rardin, Andrew Short as Wadsworth, Maggie Schackley as Yvette, Aniya Thompson as Mrs. Peacock, Piper Coe as Mrs. White, Tom Brady as Colonel Mustard, and Aashish Thakur as Professor Plum, for their captivating senses of humor, creating a powerful stage presence for the audience to enjoy. “It’s completely ridiculous, it is total slapstick. Our favorite phrase is no joke too cheap, no punchline too far. And it’s really true,” Vernon said. “They’re not the kind of actors that take themselves too seriously.” Vernon explained that the cast’s humor was a large factor in the decision to add an additional performance the second weekend’s run - it is a “Marx Brothers, Three Stooges kind of humor,” she said. The play premieres on February 7, 2020, at 7 p.m., with additional performances on 8, 13, 14, and 15. Tickets are available for purchased at the door; $10 for adults and $5 for students.

Visuals and Design: Jessalyn Baer 2 EDUCATE, CREATE, ELATE: Ironkids preschool fosters lifelong learning

Photographer: Charlotte Calmes

Charlotte Calmes how to communicate with parents in a This “play-based learning,” Mrs. Laura advertise our program, so most parents Staff Reporter professional way.” Thomas, preschool director and EYC I and learn of the preschool through word of With high school stressors consuming Educating Young Children I, the follow- II teacher, said, encourages socialization, mouth, and I will typically have a waiting students’ minds, preschool is often up course to Child Development, provides exploration and creativity, and it helps list.” remembered as “the good old days.” A high schoolers with the ability to effectively increase engagement during instructional Thomas believes that with the teen distant memory of simpler times where the plan and execute engaging lessons for the time. teachers challenging and encouraging the only concern was having the best spot on preschool’s two groups of 20 3-5-year- “When the weather is nice, we will do young children, each graduating class of the rug during story-time. olds. Throughout the year-long elective, nature walks, use our new play equipment, preschoolers leaves “kindergarten ready.” Delights such as playing hide-and-seek high schoolers practice interacting with or even play things like duck-duck-goose,” By the end of the school year, each high with new friends, singing songs to learn young children and learning to adjust to the Thomas said. schooler has also acquired an extensive the days of the week, and being pushed children’s ever-changing needs. When the children are confined to the list of skills to carry with them. A list on the swings at recess seem like a dream If the high schoolers choose to continue indoors, Thomas said activities like Play-Doh which includes patience, cooperation, and compared to the stresses of the “real world.” their studies, enrolling in Educating Young and dress-up are “quite popular” with the flexibility; skills Thomas believes will greatly The amount of pressure on students Children II, a dual-credit course offered in preschoolers. benefit them regardless of if they choose to builds with time, and high schoolers begin partnership with Heartland Community With features such as outdoor play continue in the field of education. longing for the sunshine and rainbows of College, their focus shifts toward leadership equipment, an art center, a reading corner, “No matter what, each high schooler still preschool, where life was play-based and in the preschool classroom and exploration a letter carpet, and multiple play areas filled learns a lot about how to handle behavior, painless. of the health and safety of the preschool with a never-ending collection of toys, the how to interact with others, and how to be Although this stress-free world of child. EYC II students analyze topics such teachers are capable of combining free- positive and encouraging, which serves as laughter and fun may seem like a fantasy as childhood illnesses and injuries, meal play with basic skills such as raising hands, a great groundwork for anything,” Thomas to most high schoolers, their version of planning, and the responsibilities of adults adding, and letter recognition. said. paradise can be found in room 19, where a to ensure the well-being of young children. While the introductory-level subject Although some students discover that group of 20 wide-eyed preschoolers indulge “Learning how to meet each individual matter taught at the Ironkids Preschool the field of education isn’t for them, the in the activities that strained, overwhelmed child’s needs is a huge focus throughout may be similar to other early education Educating Young Children program has high schoolers long for: drawing with chalk, EYC I and EYC II,” Abbie Lee (‘20), a student programs, the one-on-one attention and inspired nearly 15 recent graduates to blowing bubbles, and enjoying daily snack enrolled in Educating Young Children II, said. unique social experience that each young continue their studies and pursue a career time. “Each kid is so different, and I try to make student receives sets the preschool apart in education, including Katie Starkey. Greeted at the door by a familiar high sure each student is challenged and engaged from other pre-K programs in the area. Starkey is currently studying Middle school student, their “big kid buddy,” each in learning while also having fun.” Thomas has received numerous Level Education at Illinois State University preschooler is introduced to another day Each “big kid buddy” is assigned a compliments from parents who “loved because she “loves kids and wants to have of education and exploration. While the preschooler at the beginning of the year, the program for their kids” due to its a positive impact on their lives,” and she preschoolers may not be able to comprehend and the student is responsible for keeping emphasis on creating an enjoyable learning hopes to one day teach in Unit 5 as a way of the fact that their “buddy” is actually a high a portfolio tracking the child’s growth experience for each child while giving each “giving back to the teachers who have had a school student enrolled in Educating Young throughout the year while keeping the child’s preschooler the opportunity to interact large positive impact in my life.” Children, they do realize that their day will parents up-to-date with daily activities and with high schoolers who are invested in Both Owen and Lee plan to continue be filled with entertainment and education. assessments. educating themselves as well as others. studying education; Owen wishes to pursue Many “big kid buddies” use their “We get to see our own student grow Mrs. Pam Witzig, an art teacher whose a career in special education and Lee is experience at the Ironkids Preschool as between the fall and the spring, which four children attended Ironkids, said that looking at a possible career in elementary preparation for teaching in the professional shows how much they’ve learned,” Lee said, her children “always enjoyed being at education. world, where they will continue to make “and we’re teaching them so that they’re NCHS, and I [Witzig] consistently had a With the future ahead and years of sure that each early-learner is receiving prepared to be challenged.” great experience with the big kid buddies at experience behind them, these high a valuable and enjoyable introduction to To ensure that the early-learners are Ironkids.” schoolers are also looking to make as much education. adequately prepared for kindergarten Witzig’s own daughter, Grace, a current of an impact as they can on the lives of the “We are the main teachers at the and beyond, the teen teachers craft their junior, will be the first former preschooler to children that have already impacted them preschool, and when we’re not teaching, lessons around the Illinois Early Learning enroll in the course next school year. greatly. we’re assisting our classmates or planning and Development Standards, focusing on With many positive reviews from parents “Being a teacher is hard,” Owen said, “but our own lessons,” Jack Owen (‘21), an traditional subjects - language arts, math, like Witzig, the program has grown from 20 it’s fun, that’s for sure. I’m getting ready to Educating Young Children I student, said. science, and social studies - while allowing preschoolers in 2001 to 40 in 2020. do what I have been wanting to do, and I “We also learn about how to use different the free-time that preschoolers tend to “To me, what speaks loudest is the have learned so much already.” tools in the classroom setting, as well as crave. referrals,” Mrs. Thomas said. “We don’t 3 Better to Have Lauv-ed and Lost ‘Tattoos Together’ permanently marks emerging artist’s discography

Lauv's newest addition to his album. The his relationships. production and instrumentation reinforce Not just about how he fell in love when the concept of change by, well, changing he saw this girl naked, and then they got over the course of the track. tattoos. Standing alone, "Tattoos Together" is a "Tattoos Together" is upbeat and has simple pop song, but as an artist, Lauv has a fun vibe - with the bright tone and shown that he is capable of so much more. groovy atmosphere it radiates. It is too He typically is expressive in his lyrics and computerized and not in a progressive his musicianship. way. It feels as if Lauv is mimicking the "Drugs and the Internet," the album's previous successes of other pop artists first song, is a pure example of the shifts rather than utilizing his own talents a to Lauv is capable in a single song. Going from create another masterpiece. Instead of an almost ballad-like beginning to a heavy playing to his strengths, he is working in beat and loud bass, while still maintaining the light of others. pop-like features, "Drugs and the Internet" Overall, the album is so much better develops. than the most recent single from Lauv. Despite being a pop song, again, Lauv ~how i'm feeling~ shows the artist's true sings about meaningful things: covering abilities far more than "Tattoos Together." social media's impact on his mental health Don't let this song speak for the whole and how his medications have impacted album.

Photo Courtesy of: Lauv/ GoMoxie PR In conjunction with the release of his newest single “Tattoos Together” Lauv has released the track’s music video. The video was filmed in one shot, directed by Declan Whitebloom (Taylor Swift, Demi Lovato, One Direction). “This is one of my favorite videos I’ve ever done cause I’ve recently done a few heavier, more existential videos but Tattoos is just straight fun,” Lauv said. Hannah Kocar compared to others from the album, Staff Reporter makes it feel like the pen is in another While the most recent single "Tattoos writer's hand. It lacks the care that Lauv Together" from Lauv, the 25-year-old establishes in some of his other works, like singer-songwriter born Ari Leff, is catchy "Changes" and "Drugs and the Internet," and engineered like a perfect radio hit, it leaving "Tattoos Together" sounding like does not meet the standards set by the any other (and every other) song on the solo artist's previous releases. Billboard charts. "Tattoos Together," the ninth single It is as if Lauv was trying too hard to released off of Lauv's upcoming album achieve more popularity after the major ~how i'm feeling~, fails to reflect the successes of his single "I Like Me Better," album's title. His previous eight singles which reached number two on the US are emotionally expressive, covering Adult Top 40 Billboard Charts in 2017. everything from love at first sight to Lauv had a formula that worked for anxiety and isolation. This newest release, him before, so this sudden shift in his however, lacks all the feelings Lauv has style doesn't make much sense. "Tattoos previously addressed. Together" is formulated like the majority Expectations for the new track were of other pop hits. It has the adored blend high since three of Lauv's songs reached of pop music with the feel of R&B, heard platinum status even before the release through the bass-line and continuous beat of his debut album (dropping on March of the song; however, it becomes bland 6.) Lauv is best known for the 2017 single very quickly. "I Like Me Better," which was certified The verses don't go anywhere they platinum 3xs over. haven't already been; nothing is added to As a writer, the artist notably worked keep the audience interested as the song on "Boys" for Charli XCX, "Imperfections" plays on. If you only hear the first minute for Celine Dion, and most famously "No of the song, don't worry - you've heard the Promises" for Cheat Codes and Demi other three minutes. Lovato, which reached number 7 on the The same synthesized beat repeats Billboard Pop charts. over and over throughout the entirety of But lyrically this new song, "Tattoos the verses, with the same bass-line and Together," is messy and out of place in same instrumentation. While the track's comparison to Lauv's previous works. choruses have feel-good vibe, overall, it Lyrics like "Knew it from the moment, from is gets lost behind the very repetitive and the moment, from the moment that I saw overly formulaic elements. you naked" or "We were kissin', like, real A more accurate view of Lauv's ability kissin'" are juvenile, written like the notes as an artist is the single "Changes." that junior high schoolers pass to each The song is far from repetitive, as other during class. Lauv's use of "kissin'," it slowly builds towards new verses removing the "g", removes the seriousness or as it transitions into its chorus. of action he tries to describe, and with Whether adding a new beat, throwing "real kissin'" he just makes things worse. in more harmonies, or even just playing This act of love or romance suddenly feels louder on the piano, the "Changes" slowly thoughtless. This song misses the mark of builds to the final chorus. This is more of the artist's teen target audience and heads Lauv's forte. more towards preteens. Here the bass and beats drop out, leaving "Tattoos Together" is childish lyrically, only soft vocals and light piano, and giving but its writing's struggles don't end there. the listener the clarity of a finished song. The lyric "Your cherry earrings are my Lauv shares with the listener the idea that favorite" is seemingly thrown into the change isn't needed to be happy; things bridge, blatantly out of place. These lyrics, will work out. The song has meaning, unlike 4

AndKelsey KernThe Winner Is…Supposed To Be… Staff Reporter When the 92nd Academy Awards air Sunday, February 9, the voting members of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences will recognize cinematic excellence. At 7 p.m. on ABC, 32 movies, nominated across 25 categories, will compete for the top award in film - the Oscar. In 2018, Hollywood produced an abundance of high caliber films, making the Academy Awards a doozy for cinematic fanatics. While the Oscars are the most popular award event, drawing in just over 26.6 million viewers in last year’s show, the films favored by the Academy are not necessarily favored by the people; the Hollywood Elite are acting, well, elitist. The Oscars are like the electoral college for film, where the popular vote does not always win. Arts and Entertainment reporter, Kelsey Kern, is here as the voice of the people, bringing justice to the movies most deserving of recognition. Best Actor in a Leading Role • Adam Driver in Marriage Story - want to win • Leonardo DiCaprio in Once Upon a Time in Hollywood • Joaquin Phoenix in Joker - will win • Antonio Banderas in Pain and Glory • Jonathon Pyrce in The Two Popes Joker was a smashing hit at the box office, making $93.5 million, and Joaquin Phoenix's performance was an essential factor in those sales. Humanizing a villain isn't an easy task, but Phoenix took on the challenge and came out on top. For the Joker being such a familiar character, one Heath Ledger took home an Oscar for, Phoenix was left with big shoes to fill. And he fills them, adding his own more profound and darker twist, putting the Joker in a new light. Phoenix gives audiences a refreshing performance of a tired DC Comics villain, one that won him both the Golden Globe and SAG award for this category. In January 2016, Jason Bailey, writing for Flavorwire, found that over the past decade, the Globes boasted a nearly 90 percent accuracy rating for predicting the Oscars' acting awards. This historical trend, paired with Phoenix's haunting performance, makes him a shoo-in for Best Actor. But statistics are secondary to emotion when acting; emotion is something that Adam Driver exudes inMarriage Story. Driver puts all of himself into this film, and his emotion is felt from every corner of the theater as he plays Charlie - a self-obsessed, yet loving father - who fights desperately to keep his child during a trying divorce in the film. Driver reminds viewers of the challenges of life and that those challenges don't always have simple solutions. Charlie is a complex and confusing character in the most amazing of ways. This dynamic and emotional performance is fit for winning the Oscar. Best Actor in a Supporting Role • Tom Hanks in A Beautiful Day • Anthony Hopkins in The Two Popes • Al Pacino in The Irishman • Joe Pesci in The Irishman • Brad Pitt in Once Upon a Time in Hollywood - want to win; will win

Brad Pitt has received nothing but praise for his performance in Quentin Tarantino’s Once Upon A Time In Hollywood. His acting is effortless, and he truly embodies his character, Cliff Booth - the gritty stunt double for Leonardo DiCaprio’s washed-up actor. Pitt has had many successes during his acting career, and this film is no exception. Because of Pitt’s successful career, playing a washed-up actor could be a seemingly challenging role to portray. Still, Pitt does it so effortlessly. He leads the audience to believe that his career has run its course, when, in reality, it is flourishing. Pitt channels an alternate reality version of himself. One that doesn’t have two Best Actor Oscar nominations. One without a Best Picture award on his mansion’s mantel at home. One where he never made cult classics like Fight Club or Seven or orchestrated elaborate Vegas heists in the Ocean’s trilogy. One that never was in a relationship with leading ladies like Gwyneth Paltrow, Jennifer Aniston, or Angelina Jolie. Though Pitt is up against the iconic actors Joe Pesci and Al Pacino, the two didn’t have to stretch to play their roles inThe Irishman. Joe Pesci has paired once again with director Martin Scorsese after previously working together inRaging Bull (1980), Casino (1995), and Goodfellas (1990). Al Pacino returns to the mob genre for the fifth time, following up The Godfather trilogy, Scarface (1983), and Heat (1995). There is nothing new from the two actors, making their performances almost boring. Compared to his competitors, Pitt’s spunky and tough act will win him this award. Best Actress in a Lead Role • Saorise Ronan in Little Women - want to win • Cynthia Erivo in Harriet • Scarlett Johansson in Marriage Story • Charlize Theron in Bombshell • Rene Zellweger in Judy - will win

There is a lot of pressure in portraying someone as well known and loved as Judy Garland. Yet, René Zellweger does so beautifully, bringing a beloved Hollywood icon back to life for 118 minutes. Biopics perform exceptionally well during the award season. In last year’s awards, four out of five Best Actors nominations starred in biopics, the winner - Rami Malek forBohemian Rhapsody (2018). According to The Wrap reporter Brian Welk, within the last decade, the nominees from biopics surpassed nominees portraying original characters - 23-22. It is no surprise that Zellweger is a front runner considering her role. And while audiences have high expectations for performers to capture the nuanced mannerisms, the look, the speech of well-known subject, the source material is there to work from. So, let’s not forget this generation’s newest feminist icon,Little Women’s Jo March, played by Saorise Ronan. Ronan gave an original heartbreaking and empowering performance that both tore apart hearts and put them back together. Best Actress in a Supporting Role • Florence Pugh in Little Women - want to win • Kathy Bates in Richard Jewell • Laura Dern in Marriage Story - will win • Margot Robbie in Once Upon a Time in Hollywood • Scarlett Johansson in Jojo Rabbit

Laura Dern did an incredible job giving a voice to one that is typically voiceless - the divorce lawyer. Although she gave a bold and believable performance, Florence Pugh deserves so much for her hilarious, lovely, and robust performance in Little Women. Pugh conveyed the challenges and emotions that go along with growing up, giving her character depth that is challenging to contain as a supporting role. Pugh’s character, Amy March, is extremely dynamic, lively, and strong while still only supporting and not overpowering the lead. With limited screen time, her performance was breathtaking and inspiring to that watched the film. With Midsommar, Little Women, and Blackwidow on the way, Pugh deserves recognition for this breakout performance. 5 And The Winner Is…Supposed To Be… Original Score Best Director • Joker • Quentin Tarantino for Once Upon a Time in Hollywood • Little Women - want to win; will win • Martin Scorsese for The Irishman • Marriage Story • Todd Phillips for Joker • 1917 • Sam Mendes for 1917 - will win • Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker • Bong Joon-ho for Parasite Alexandre Desplat is a well known and honored name in the Academy for his Here it is, the biggest Oscar snub of 2020. Greta Gerwig’s name is nowhere on this composing, winning this award for The Shape of Water (2017) and The Grand list, and it is a shame. Gerwig’s direction of Little Women was beautiful; every line of Budapest Hotel (2014). Desplat’s work has earned him nine nominations, dialogue, action, shot, color, and emotion has a distinct purpose in moving the film making Little Women a top contender. His music in Little Womenadds along. And moving the audience along with it. charm and dynamic to the film that match the charm and dynamic Gerwig’s familiarity with her actors, previously working with of the lively characters. Saoirse Ronan and Timotheé Chalamet in Lady Bird (2017), allowed Even though Hildur Guðnadóttir, the composer for the original her to conjure the best possible performances from the two actors. music in Joker, has been viewed as a top contender, winning the The film followed four different storylines taking place over two different timelines Golden Globe, it doesn’t necessarily mean she will take home the flawlessly. Gerwig’s lighting distinguished the two time-frames, making not only a Oscar. In the end, Desplat will take this award for his extensive stunning film but a way for the audience to keep track of the ever-shifting timelines. experience, familiarity with the opinions of Academy, and most Every single detail in Little Women has purpose, proving Gerwig’s talent as a director. importantly, his beautiful composing. Gerwig juggled an ensemble of dynamic actors, jumping between timelines, following the original book - all while still incorporating her own voice and still managing to check Adapted Screenplay all the artsy film boxes that make an Oscar-worthy picture. The very least the Academy • The Irishman could do is grant Gerwig the nomination she so deserves. • Jojo Rabbit Of the nominees, Sam Mendes’s 1917 is primed to take home this Oscar. Mendes • Joker is no stranger to this category, winning for American Beauty (1999), but this time • Little Women - want to win, will win he is nominated for a genre-film. Mendes and the camera work as one in 1917. • The Two Popes Similarly to Birdman (2014), a film that won both Best Director and Best Picture in the 2015 ceremony, 1917 relies on the tracking shot. Little Women follow four story-lines while also moving from past to Tracking shots make movies look as though they were filmed in one take, something present repeatedly throughout the film, tasks that could easily make a that is extremely difficult to do and shows remarkable talent from a director. In 1917, movie extremely confusing. only one blatant cut was shown during the entire film, a skill that requires extensive However, director Greta Gerwig was able to accomplish this seamlessly. and impeccable editing as well as extreme accuracy during filming. To accomplish these There have been over 10 adaptations of the source novel by Louisa May shots, Mendes had to have exact measurements in the length of the land as well as Alcott making the expectations for a new take on the story a challenge. the width of the sets to ensure the transitions from one location to another would be Gerwig needed to both honor the original text, as well as make something unbroken. Without the attention to detail in its production,1917 would just be another new that audiences would enjoy without feeling like the story itself had been war movie. But the tracking shot in 1917 created an immersive war experience, making exhausted and overdone. Gerwig accomplished this by adding her vision, audience members cling to the edge of their seats. The time, attention, and vision that true to the time period, but also relevant to today, making Little Women a Mendes put into this film secures him this award. Greta Gerwig story. Gerwig, in an interview with Variety, said that she took the time to write Best Picture every line of dialogue with a precise rhythm. This attention to detail gives • Ford V. Ferrari the film a flow and ease that is necessary for it’s packed plot. Gerwig was • The Irishman able to honor the many, many adaptations of this novel by adding her own • Jojo Rabbit unique spin on the tale, suitable for a new generation of women. • Joker • Little Women - want to win Original Screenplay • Marriage Story • Knives Out • 1917 • Marriage Story - want to win • Once Upon a Time in Hollywood - will win • 1917 • Parasite • Once Upon a Time in Hollywood - will win • Parasite While the merits of Little Women have been exhausted, it clearly the Inkspot’s pick for the Best Picture of 2019. However, it will not take home that coveted award. Marriage Story, ironically, is a film about divorce. There is not much to Tarantino’s Once Upon a Time in Hollywood is a recipe for success. The film is filled the plot besides that. Yet, somehow it completely engages the audience with a dream cast - Brad Pitt, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Margo Robbie - who produced throughout the entirety of the movie through the intense emotions stunning performances, resulting in all three receiving nominations in their respective conveyed and the incredible storytelling. categories. The performances were beyond amazing, allowing both Scarlett The film is the perfect homage to old-time Hollywood, which traditionally pleases the Johansson and Adam Driver to be nominated for a leading role. The film members of the Academy. depicts the sensitive topic of divorce in such a way that even those with no Being based on a true story enhances the film’s chance of success as well. Last year’s connection to it can still feel the pain of those involved. Tears have Best Picture winner Green Book (2018), as well as Titanic (1996), Dances with Wolves and will be shed over this film time and time again. (1989), and Platoon (1985) were all adaptations or fictionalizations of actual events. That said, Quentin Tarantino knows how to write a screenplay In fact, 52 Best Picture nominations since 1990 have been based on real events. too and write it flawlessly. He is the creator of many iconic Tarantino took risks in the production of this film, straying from his penchant for films like Pulp Fiction (1994) and Django Unchained (2012), extreme gore and violence seen in his earlier works such as Pulp Fiction (1994) and both of which have been up for this same category and Reservoir Dogs (1992). Tarantino played more with the characters and the story than won. Once Upon A Time In Hollywood is no exception to just blood and guts. This risk puts him at an advantage, showing his talent as a director. the greats Tarantino has produced and will ultimately take home this award. Costume Design • The Irishman • Jojo Rabbit • Joker • Little Women- want to win; will win • Once Upon a Time in Hollywood

Period pieces have the most success in this category considering they must imitate the extravagant outfits of the past.Phantom Thread (2017), The Duchess (2008), Titanic (1997), and Elizabeth: The Golden Age (2007) are some of the recent period pieces to take home this award. Costume designer Jacqueline Durran from Little Women is an Oscar winner for Anna Karenina (2013) and a 4-time Oscar nominee. In Little Women, each character had a distinct and individual color scheme, and the mother role, Marmie, played by Laura Dern, incorporates aspects of each daughter’s costuming within her own. Durran was able to create individualized costumes that advance the characters and the story, while still accurately depicting the style and fashion of the time period. Such attention to detail is why Durran is deserving of this win. 6 New app to benefit high school seniors Alum creates app to ease transition from high school to college

Evie Snoeyink from the app. The two began by asking Editor-in-Chief questions: what stresses students out Normal Community graduate Ashley Kennedy about the college process? What areas of (class of ‘15) and fellow Northwestern graduate the college process do students need the student Indira Ramos have set out to create an app most support in? that provides high school students with peer-to- “We are looking for feedback and peer support during the college process. helpful advice and what people are looking The app, ConnectMentee, will connect high school for when they are using the app,” Ramos student mentee’s with college mentors from “the said. “We haven’t been to high school for top universities across the nation.” These mentors a couple of years now, so we don’t know will provide support in the application process, give how things have changed when it comes to tips for on-campus life, and help ease the transition the application process.” from high school to college, all while helping increase The team recently launched a website a sense of community at universities. (https://www.connectmentee.com/) and The idea for this project developed from a a @connectmentee Instagram account conversation during the Chicago Public school with the hopes of building a name and strikes when, for 11 days, teachers picketed to recognition for their project. improve classroom and working standards. “We’re still in the early stages,” Kennedy CPS teachers were lobbying for an increase in said. The two entrepreneurs are working salary, a decrease in class sizes, and an increase in with the Northwestern startup incubator, school support employees such as social workers, The Garage. Through The Garage, they nurses, and librarians. are recruiting small groups of mentors At the same time, high school seniors needed and mentees to closely monitor how the support too during the stressful college application app functions in real practice. This initial process. As CPS was on strike, seniors were working stage aims at working out any potential on writing college essays and completing the problems before the app fully launches. complicated application process. “We have mock-ups of what the app And college students from across the country would look like,” Kennedy said, but “we began to provide that support to the CPS seniors. are in the pre-capital stage where research As Kennedy and Ramos discussed the situation and development and finding funding is in their college classes, “the idea burst out of our our top priority right now.” conversation,” Kennedy said, and college students The pair is looking to add one more to helping high school students with the whole college their team - a Chief Technology Officer. process became the basis of the app. “We would really like someone,” Ramos Photo Courtesy of: Ashley Kennedy To gain insight into the population they are said, “who is passionate about the project The Connectmentee app mock-up displays future component of the product. The app is intended as a forum for peer-to-peer mentorship where current trying to serve, Kennedy and Ramos visited NCHS and wants to be involved in the process of college students can guide perspective students through authentic advice. to research what students would want and need making [the app] a solid company.” Social Buddies: Graduate turns published poet Social Studies teachers have rules,” Bennett explained. “It’s just carefully. She was particular about the way release monthly podcast a direct manifestation of what is in your her words worked together in harmony head, bringing something to life.” and the way they worked together. Olivia Plangger Since the fourth grade, Bennett has been Feeney now uses Bennett’s poetry Staff Reporter stringing rhythmic words together to create to teach his current students, and her The debut episode of their podcast stanzas of expression and had amassed a work is visible even upon just entering “Social Buddies,” released on January 27, growing ocean of poems. But it was during his classroom. The brick wall features a features the group’s thoughts on a variety middle school when she first took a proper towering mural of a blue tree, painted by of subjects covering their thoughts on the interest in the art of poetry and writing, Bennett along with her words, “We are all school parking lot, the internet personality which continued throughout high school. books because we have spines and stories James Charles, along with their own high Bennett excelled in Mr. Brad Bovenkerk’s to tell.” school recollections, teaching experiences, Creative Writing class and was a member Bennett, as the line suggests, also has a even Lawler’s reasons for biking to school. of the Inkspot staff; her anthology story to tell. Ocean Growing is a collection The trio is not afraid to share their illustrates this devotion to writing. The of her beautifully assembled poetry about thoughts as they talk about anything - as poems included on the pages of Ocean heartache, loss, love, and overcoming. long as it’s school appropriate - creating a Growing were written initially between Between the covers, Bennett often frank, unpolished conversation. Bennett’s eighth-grade year and her first incorporates her love of water imagery. During the recording of their first years of college. The collection’s title originates from the episode, they sifted through a list of talking As the notes app on Bennett’s phone and line “sometimes I think it’s the sound of points submitted by students and staff to the stacks of paper beside her filled with the ocean growing” from the poem “Coast “please the people,” Robinson said. Cover Image Courtesy of: Meghan Bennett her thoughts, her words, her work, “finally of Lonely”. “There’s not enough people saying Ocean Growing is the debut poetry collection putting them into something tangible” was “Each poem,” Bennett said, “is just this things that need to be said,” Lawler stated. from NCHS alumni Meghan Bennett. a liberating feeling. “It wasn’t just in these tiny little water drop that I was giving to The three plan to invite special guests notebooks hidden under my bed anymore. the world hoping it was making something, onto upcoming episodes of the show, Gwendolyn Fieweger It was very freeing to give [the collection] someone’s world, someone’s own ocean, a including current students, past students, Staff Reporter to somebody.” little bit bigger.” and teachers in hopes of sharing different As a high schooler, Meghan Bennett Even as shy, soft-spoken high school Bennett describes her collection with perspectives. Other ideas are also in spent her Friday nights alongside a student, Bennett stood out. “She had a single word: authentic. She believes in the works for the future, such as having stack of blank notebook paper with something she was wanting to say,” Mr. the importance of genuine, raw, direct themed episodes, including a sports a pen in hand, surrounded by cafe David Feeney, Bennett’s former A.P. communication from her brain to the edition. tables and towering bookshelves. Literature and Composition teacher, said. paper, so not much revising was needed in To ensure they don’t take on more than Bennett inscribed words as they came to For Bennett, Feeney was not just a her writing process. they can handle to start, Robinson said, her, directly communicating her thoughts teacher, but a guide; her publication is “I don’t like editing my feelings,” she said. “We’re shooting for monthly [episodes] at the moment onto the blank, bare white dedicated to him and “the friends who Publishing her words was something she right now.” surface of the paper. help light the candles” - a reference used to think was impossible. The Social Buddies podcasts will last This was the same process Bennett, a to her A.P. Literature classmates. As a self-published author, she looks around 20-25 minutes and are available 2015 NCHS graduate, relied upon to self- Feeney and her high school English class back on her previous doubt with some new through NCHSInkspot.com, Apple publish her collection of poetry, Ocean inspired Bennett to pursue poetry, making advice: “Don’t wait around for someone to Podcasts, and Spotify. Growing. Bennett’s debut was released on their mark on her. tell you that your words are worth listening “Social Buddies” is are geared toward March 10, 2018, while she was still a senior But Bennett left her mark at NCHS as well. to. It’s an act of self-love to put your own students, and having racked up 100 listens English education major at N.Y.U. Feeney describes her as an empathetic and words into the world, no matter what the in its first 36 hours, Robinson shared that it The best poetry is unedited, unfiltered, artistic soul; she didn’t just speak in class reaction is.” feels good “to have a voice that will reach authentic. “Poetry is writing that doesn’t but took the time to plan out her words the halls of power.” 7 Course to career - more than a guide, a philosophy Mantra Dave; Olivia Plangger course scheduling across high schools. In science field looks like,” State Farm not every student needs the same thing[s] Staff Reporters the English department, Vernon was the Enterprise Technology intern Jathin Nama from high school, so that’s why we’re At 65 pages, the NCHS Course to Career only qualified teacher in the district for the (‘20) said. trying to have as many different options as Guide is a behemoth, describing every dual credit Intro to Oral Communication “I think there will always be a mixture possible,” Maurer said. course offering available to students. The course, forcing her to travel to NCWHS [of different options of classes] because plethora of new courses, added over the because it was such “a hit.” past decade, offers students opportunities The freedom of dual credit courses to explore career paths and discover their gets students’ “feet wet” in the deep passions. end of college, where “no one’s going to Work experience options Today’s Course to Career Guide dwarfs be looking over [their] shoulder,” Vernon Anagha Arla the one from a decade ago, which merely said. These efforts, Vernon hopes, prepare Associate Editor provided course descriptions. Today’s students for the next phase of their Innovative guide connects a student’s course education. selection and extracurricular activities Entrepreneurs with their career interests and plans. Advanced Placement Courses The Innovative Entrepreneurship program, run by Mrs. Julie Hinman, is a program With additional offerings of non- More traditionally, Advanced for high school seniors who are interested in entrepreneurship. Students explore traditional courses - career and technical Placement courses also offer college- project funding, design feasibility and problem-solving in the business world. education through B.A.C.C.; dual level coursework. Students, however, are CREDITS credit options through a partnership required to score above a certain threshold REQUIREMENTS with Heartland Community College; on a standardized test for college credit. Students in the IE program are offered Traditionally, the students chosen and blended attendance classes - Unit In the 2010s, various A.P. courses were one credit per year. based on an application and interview. 5 students have the opportunity to introduced: including Calculus BC and experience hands-on, college-level, and Physics C - top-level courses meant to WHO? SKILLS flexible learning. advance students interested in the STEM Only seniors are considered for the IE Interpersonal communication, soft fields. program. The IE class is an Unit 5 class skills, networking, developing a business Blended Courses As an increasing number of careers made up of 12 students from Normal plan, raising capital, etc. This year, students study in the library, depend on technological expertise, a Community and 12 students from Normal Students are required to start a non- the fishbowl, even at home - all during new focus on computer science courses West. In total there are only 24 students profit first semester, helping them the middle of the school day. Through developed. This led to the addition of AP in IE program. understand the need for community the introduction of blended attendance Computer Science Principles, a project- service. classes, meant to prepare students for based curriculum designed to provide an STUDENT SAYS... INSTRUCTOR SAYS... the college experience, students are only overview of computer science. required to spend a portion of class time As classes diversified so have the “My experience in IE has been good, “As a result of these community in the traditional classroom setting. On students who may enroll in them. 10 years albeit stressful at times, and has taught connections students have found flexible attendance days, students work ago, upperclassmen were the only eligible me a lot about entrepreneurship and startup support with mentor-ship, at their own pace in alternative settings or students for A.P. courses. Today students networking” donations, manufacturing assistance, with their instructor, receiving one-on-one can take A.P. CSP starting their sophomore - Jacob Haggarty (class of ‘19) post-secondary opportunities, and instruction. year. employment opportunities” Blended classes debuted to “help Last year, freshmen joined the world - Mrs. Julie Hinman our students be prepared for college,” of A.P. as part of the Computer Science Associate Principal Mrs. Nicole Maurer, Associates Degree Program, another Internship coordinator of course sectioning and new opportunity for around 30 students Program planning, said. in each grade to simultaneously earn an The internship program is run by Mrs. Megan Freymann at NCHS and Mr. Tim Franz Blended classes reinforce student associates degree alongside their high at NCWHS. It offers in-depth experiences, where students intern at local businesses responsibility and time management, school diploma. in the community to identify potential career interests. Mrs. Kevin Vernon said. Offering them With the popularity of the A.P. courses CREDITS the “chance to be more in control of their offered to upperclassmen, it’s under REQUIREMENTS time,” while providing a more collegiate discussion as to whether sophomores Students in the Internship program There is an online application that schedule. should be given the opportunity to take earn up to two credits during the school students are required to complete. Teachers showed interest in a flexible additional A.P. classes; however, no action year. Students are able to pick between Students are required to meet certain approach to managing class time, Maurer has been taken. one credit per semester or an half-credit academics, attendance, and discipline said, providing more one-on-one time Evolving requirements give students per semester. standards. with students. increased flexibility, allowing A.P. classes to WHO? SKILLS Blended courses rolled out in 2017, cover graduation prerequisites. The newly beginning with dual credit and advanced implemented civics requirement can be The Internship Program is offered Skills vary depending on the location of classes, which teach a college curriculum. fulfilled by A.P. United States Government, to seniors, providing an opportunity to each individuals internship. The college-like class schedule was a while A.P. Computer Science courses count gain experience in a career field of their natural pairing with dual credit courses’ as a math credit. choice. INSTRUCTOR SAYS... college coursework. As the administration looks deeper into STUDENT SAYS... “It’s experience you cannot get in a Due to the popularity of the initial potential career pathways for students, classroom and you learn from people that offering among students and teachers, Maurer acknowledges that “we have a “The internship program has helped are doing it everyday, so you get to see blended classes expanded from four hole when it comes to physical training or me to become what I want to become.” the good and the bad. And whether or not classes in 2017 to 16 in 2020-21. physical therapy [and] law.” - Hannah Ahmed (class of ‘19) that be a good fit for you.” Due to a large number of requests and Discussion is beginning for classes in - Mrs. Megan Freymann the work required to create the course anatomy and physiology to address these structure, no additional blended courses needs, ensuring students learn about their Work will be added next school year. 2021-22 potential career before graduating. Program will see the addition of a variety of blended The Work Program, overseen by Mr. Donald Whitman, offers students the class offerings. Career-Focused Courses opportunity to gain high school credit while working paying jobs. Career-focused education outside Dual Credit of the classroom is available through CREDITS REQUIREMENTS Dual credit offerings bring the college the internship program, work program, Students enrolled in the work program Potential work program students experience to the high school through a and Innovative Entrepreneurs, offering may gain up to two credits during the are required to complete an online partnership with Heartland Community students a way to examine their futures in school year. One credit is offered for the application. Students must maintain a job College. Course to Career guide isn’t just a the workforce. work program class and another credit is as a component of the course. title, it’s a philosophy by guiding students The Internship program received an offered for the workplace component. SKILLS toward their futures. overwhelmingly positive response from WHO? Families save on college tuition as students, considering the fact that “we Skill development varies depending on students get “a step up, or a leg forward… have two or three times the number of The work program is available to students’ job placement. getting college credit ahead of time, while applicants next year for internship, so we’ll upperclassmen are interested in working simultaneously earning high school credit,” have to see how many were allowed to and getting paid for their work. INSTRUCTOR SAYS... Maurer said. take,” Maurer said. “It really helps a student focus on life Demand can affect staffing based on Students work at a local business each STUDENT SAYS... skills. It helps with resume booster items, the popularity of individual dual credit day for the equivalent of one or two credit “It’s a pretty good gig, really laid back, we have references, evaluation, and work courses. Teachers must be “approved by hours, gaining workforce experience and and you don’t feel pressured. A lot of performances. It shows the student can Heartland” which “typically require[s] a making connections in their future fields. work but you don’t feel pressured.” balance work and school which is hard, master’s degree in that content area,” “My internship has allowed me - Tim Albrecht (class of ‘19) it’s hard to balance all of this at one time.” Maurer said. to develop programming skills and - Mr. Donald Whitman These staffing requirements impact understand what a career in the computer 8 The Back Page The Inkspot presents Plague of Potholes: “The Best of the Blacktop” Zach Holliday Staff Reporter Pennsylvania. Home of the Liberty Bell, an amalgamation of metals with an immensely T deep cultural resonance. Well, really, the only thing actually deep about the Liberty Bell is its crack. A crack is the sole reason for the tourist attraction. H The Grand Canyon - a literal hot spot for Instagrammers interested in posing for E vacation photos, so their Instagram followers know that they actually went on vacation. The Mariana Trench - the deepest part of the ocean, so deep that if Mt. Everest were dropped inside its tallest peak would still be over a mile underwater. So deep that it has only been measured by remotely operated submarines and sonar. D Three immense cracks of historical, social, geological significance. These imperfections are celebrated for their importance across a variety of fields O But not all cracks are created equal. There is another category of fissure that people O tend to care about, though not with the same magnitude. A crack that, unlike the Mariana trench, has been visited by mankind - every Monday R - Friday. An inconspicuous horror lying right under our noses. According to an AAA Auto Club M study, these monsters cost U.S. drivers an average of $3 billion each year. What is this dangerous force? Potholes. A These car-mangling craters are everywhere; even our own parking lot isn’t immune. N Not even Normal Community is not safe from their destruction. Bump. Kathunk. That’s the first message NCHS sends to opposing school, to parents, and to students alike. Instead of a strong first impression, we show a lack of concern for C their four-wheeled friends. These potholes’ reign of terror has to be stopped. They are R making us look bad E Before we take a closer look at look at these pains in the asphalt and decide which is the worst - a quick science lesson. Potholes are formed by repeated freezing and A thawing of water within small cracks in the road, in addition to the regular wear and tear T of being driven on. With time, they only continue to grow more powerful. U While all potholes present a danger, some pose a significantly larger threat than R others. Potholes have three major components that make them the car axle assassination machines they have evolved into. These factors are hole width and length, depth, and E location. So without further ado, The Inkspot presents the best of the blacktop, the cream of of the concrete, the top three potholes in the Normal Community High School parking lot. the

No. 3: The Doorman This pothole is in no way the largest, but what makes this one so dangerous D is its location. Immediately upon entering the parking lot this pothole is there, E waiting, hoping for unsuspecting drivers to fall into its ominous opening. E

No. 2: The Creature of the Deep P This pothole is the platonic ideal of potholes. It has it all. It has the widest cavity out of any other crack in the parking lot’s asphalt. And it is the deepest T too; measuring in at 5 inches at its deepest and 2 inches at its shallowest. Combined with its placement near the main entrance drop-off, this is a pothole H worth looking out for. If you don’t see it, don’t worry you sure will feel it. E No. 1: The Ice Cap While this pothole is not the deepest, it is the longest, measuring in at over 125 inches long. I While impressive in its sheer stature, its size isn’t where the true dangerousness lies within this inverted landmine. What makes this pothole the most nefarious pothole in C the school parking lot is its lack of depth. The less deep the pothole, the easier it is to be filled with water. When this happens, not only is the pothole growing, it becomes a slip E and slide of doom for the cars above. Even when the skies are clear and the weather is warm, driving along this pothole’s 10 feet of length is still something to be wary of. The rough surface that lies beneath the C regular asphalt of our roads could damage or even puncture a tire, leaving students and parents trapped in the parking lot without hope of escaping. A The importance of having smooth, safe roads to drive on is something drivers shouldn’t take for granite (pun intended). P

‘Matilda’ cast announced Spring musical starts rehearsals The Inkspot Presents Inkspot Staff

The cast list of this year’s musical, Matilda, was released on Monday, February 3. Rehearsals begin Monday, February 10 After the last week’s auditions, the in preparation for the show’s premiere ensemble cast of the production based on April 16. Cutest Couple Contest Roald Dahl’s 1988 novel was selected. Key Stay tuned into NCHSInkspot.com as members of this year’s musical include Inkspot reporter Colin Flack revisits the In the spirit of spreading love on Valentine’s Day, The Inkspot is running a cutest Regan Smith (‘20) as Matilda, Nate Rardin childhood classic book and compares it couple contest. (‘20) as Miss Agatha Trunchbull, and Becca against director Danny DeVito’s 1996 film The photo that gets the most likes on the Inkspot’s Instagram, @NCHSInkspot, will Burton (‘21) as Miss Honey. The company adaptation and for more Matilda, the receive a $50 gift card for dinner at a Destihl. 2nd place will receive a $10 Starbucks gift includes over thirty additional actors, Musical coverage. card. dancers, and singers. Voting for the contest goes through February 14 at noon. Leaderboard rankings will be updated on the NCHSInkspot.com regularly. Students can vote on Instagram and must submit cutest photos through DMing on Instagram or emailing [email protected]. Follow Us To be eligible there need to be two humans in the photo. One human must attend @NCHSInkspot Normal Community or be employed by Normal Community High School. Make sure to include the names of the people in the photograph.