Which Read about Christmas Christmas the music character are from you most like? Find out other on page 4. )) cultures Echo ) on page 6. Illiana Christian High School Volume 72 Issue 4 December 22, 2017 Lansing, Illinois School board cancels ‘Godspell’ Disheartened students, directors plan to bounce times memorizing songs in prepara- tion. “I spent a lot of time preparing back with musical revue of past productions like everyone else interested in [the Beth Boonstra problems with other presentations of musical], I’m sure.” Co-Editor in Chief this play by other people that were not Fabrizius wasn’t thrilled at what all God honoring. In particular, I think sounded like a boring musical at first, Maddie Holesinger the emphasis was based on ‘Can you but his opinion quickly changed. Co-Editor in Chief give us permission to do this play rec- “This musical has developed my faith ognizing that we would do it in a God very much. I am moved by the great Illiana’s musical for this coming honoring way?’” message it has to offer and I believe spring has gone through a myriad of Aware of the musical and the that message shouldn’t be shut down changes, forcing the drama depart- potential for controversy, the board for a very small amount of people. One ment and its students to ride a roller- approved “Godspell.” Since then, of the main conflicts was unity. “God- coaster of emotions. On Tuesday, Dec. directors Jim Kamphuis, Kathy Sliek- spell” is all about community. We 12, the school board, after already hav- ers, and Lagerwey have been working are disciples of God, and “Godspell” ing approved the musical “Godspell” hard to make this musical possible. shows with the modern take on it.” months before reversed its decision, “It’s difficult to put a number on While some were preparing for citing doctrinal issues of portraying the hours we had already spent on this the musical, others were working to Christ. Directors made a quick come- musical,” said Kamphuis. “Some of shut it down through petition and letter. back with a new musical idea, a recap our effort goes back several years, but Matthew Huizenga and Sam of the greatest musicals throughout Il- we had worked most intensively on Boonstra, sophomore and junior stu- liana’s history. this show for the five weeks between dents prospectively, who have both the fall play and the Board’s decision. been in Illiana drama productions, Photot courtesy of Liz VanDrunen In the late spring Mrs. Mary La- Close-up group gathers for group discussion at Jefferson Memorial. gerwey, Illiana’s musical director as Much of the set design was either com- wrote a letter of concern to the direc- well as one of the Bible teachers, pro- plete or had at least been conceived, tors. Huizinga also circulated a peti- posed the Stephen Schwartz musical and thousands of dollars had already tion amongst classmates, receiving 24 “Godspell,” a 70s telling of Jesus’ life been spent on set pieces and other student signatures, several of which D.C. exposure teaches on earth based on the Gospel of Mat- equipment.” Kamphuis spent hours belonged to students who had never thew. This wasn’t her first time pro- rewiring light fixtures in preparation even been a part of a drama produc- posing this musical either. Normally, to light the stage from 360 degrees, a tion and many more who had only students firsthand lessons musicals and plays are not proposed requirement for putting on what would been part of one production in the Amber VanKalker the Capitol. Students visited to the education committee or to the have been Illiana’s first theater-in-the- past. Huizenga’s main points in the Reporter monuments, landmarks, and school board beforehand, but recog- round production. These lights will letter were that “’Godspell’s’ intent is memorials that were involved nizing potential controversy in this now have to be rewired all again. the entertainment of man rather than Juniors Elizabeth DeYoung, in what they had learned in their choice, she wanted to make sure that Students also put in a significant the glorification of God, ...’Godspell’ Trent Kamp, Julia Oostema, prior workshop. the board was behind her and the other amount of preparation for this musical. uses Biblical stories with disregard for Ashley Pigatti, Alec Vander- Meanwhile Mr. DeBoer directors. Auditions were to be held on the same the message of scripture, ...’Godspell’ Zee, Liz VanDrunen, and Alex got a chance to go on different Principal Peter Boonstra who was day as the board’s meeting, so students takes the word of God lightly, …[and] Wondaal joined chaperone Mr. tours including Quantico, where at both of the board meetings regard- rehearsed for auditions, believing that By portraying Jesus in this musical, we Darren DeBoer for a week-long the marines train, and Harper’s ing the musical said, “[Lagerwey’] ac- they would be performing “Godspell.” would profane the Lord.” study trip to Washington, DC for Ferry, which was an important knowledged that there were certainly Senior Ben Fabrizius listened to the the annual Close-up program. site before the civil war. Two “Godspell” soundtrack at least ten Turn to Show, Page 3 The Close Up program, ac- of his greatest memories were cording to its website, offers celebrating Pigatti’s birthday students “a front row seat to de- and walking down MLK Ave. in Preview draws crowd, shows age mocracy in action in the halls of southeast Washington. Cate Peerbolte not be in use next year. As part of the was very well done and I was very Congress, as well as in meetings Elizabeth DeYoung said, Co-Feature Editor tour, each group stopped in a class- pleased with the program. The best with Washington insiders and “The highlight of the week was room for a powerpoint presentation part was seeing the teachers’ love for media.” The ICHS Social Stud- almost getting arrested” while On Thursday, Nov. 30, Illiana given by Principal Peter Boonstra on the school and their students.” ies Department chooses eight on a 10-mile hike through the hosted the annual fall “Preview Illi- the new campus and other changes Bob Beishuizen said, “The students from the junior class to woods to the old Capitol build- ana” where prospective Illiana fami- coming next year. seven minutes with Mr. Boonstra represent our school. Students ing. When they tried to go lies come to learn about Illiana. Turkstra said, “Preview has seemed rushed. I would have liked are selected through a process of back, they had to cross a roped According to Vice Principal AJ never been about seeing the build- less stations with more time in each application that includes a writ- off bridge that led straight Turkstra, Preview officially began ing, especially now. We are show- one.” ten essay and an interview. to the Police Station. Fortu- in 2010. “I pitched the idea to the casing what Illiana has to offer.” Karen VanBelle said, “It was While in Washington nately, they didn’t get in much school board in 2010, but I first had Prospective parents who were great to see the classes in action. I D.C., the group visited the trouble. They got back safely the idea in 2009, when I was teaching at Preview mostly thought the night wished we could’ve talked to depart- Washington Monument, and the forest trooper let them shop classes in room 114. We would was a success but reflected on the ment heads about the curriculum. It World War ll Memorial, and leave without penalty. have open house nights where par- night in various ways. also would have been nice to able the Capital Quarry. They also Close-up is a time for stu- ents could come and see the projects Gary Eenigenburg said, “I liked to choose what classes to visit based had the opportunity to see dents to learn to be courteous, their children were working on. I had listening to Mr. Davids and Mr. on what my son is interested in. It the Senate building and the to respect everyone’s opin- the idea to expand these shop open Boonstra, but I wish they had more was great to see the community and House floor to witness a bill ions, and to learn to hear the houses to a school open house.” time to speak. The night was very how it has grown and how it works being passed. opinions of those around them It was Illiana’s fourteenth pre- choppy with lots of little things, that together.” While on the trip students while staying true to them- view this fall. Turkstra said, “I think added up to a long night.” Vicky DeBoer said, “My favor- had a chance to split up into a selves. that it (Preview) is running its course. Tracey Eenigenburg said, “I ite part was seeing the different class- student section with students Pigatti said, “To me it was It has seen its time, but it is getting think that I learned everything I need es and how the halls have changed.” from other schools, and the a chance to learn about past harder to come up with something to, but I would have liked more time Dave DeBoer said, “I would teachers went to the teacher events in history that aren’t new and fresh to replace it.” with the core people who were ex- like to see the new building. I know section. During these hour-long talked about in class, and to This year the families in atten- plaining programs.” that's not possible, but I want to see sessions, they learned from ex- see jobs that are needed at the dance previewed a school that will Betty Beishuizen said, “It what the future of Iliana looks like.” perienced people who work at Capitol.” 2 News Hear it from Time’s Students recieve full immersion Person of the Year herself in German at St. Paul’s es, so as this title states, I was indeed of the congregation. Multiple types named Time’s Person of the Year for Natalie Togtman of cookies, punch, and water were 2017. I and many, many others all in Co-Arts Editor Y served. one, collective group known as The Silence Breakers. On Sunday Dec. 3 students in Junior Emily Poortenga, who Together, these were some of the bravest and strongest German 1-4 were invited to Saint is currently in German 1, said, “The and most influential women of the year. These were Paul’s Lutheran Church in Chica- pastor was so nice, and seemed all of the women who came out go Heights for a Christmas service very invested in the service and in this past year and spoke in German. Students who attended making sure he talked to almost up about their own sexual received extra credit. everybody, but the other people at- harassment or abuse. I During the service, worship- tending the service were also very spoke in chapel about ers sang lots of classic Christmas kind. I talked to multiple members mine in November. hymns such as “Silent Night” and of the congregation and their rea- This was easily “Lo How a Rose E’er Blooming.” sons for continuing to come to the one of the hardest Sophomore Lance Mulder- service were very interesting.” things I’ve ever ink, who is currently in German 1, This special Christmas ser- done. I didn’t said, “I really enjoyed the singing vice has been offered for seven do it because I Beth Boonstra because it seemed a little bizarre years as a way to remember the wanted popu- Co-Editor-in-Chief in the way that the songs we sang Lutheran roots of the church. larity or recogni- were sung in a different tune than I Senior Josh Smits, who is tion. If I wanted was used to.” currently in German 4, said, “I go that I certainly wouldn’t have shared with the entire The pastor read multiple Bi- to this service because I love being school the humiliation that I felt. I went into it know- ble passages from Luke and Mat- able to translate everything in my ing that I might lose friends, I might have people say- thew that told about the birth and head, but I also really enjoy the ing things about me behind my back, but I wasn’t go- life of Jesus. extra time of worship. The wor- ing to let that stop me. I knew that it wasn’t just about The service lasted about an ship at this church was different me. I knew that there were other people out there who hour, and afterward students were because the service was in Ger- needed to hear what I had to say, people who needed Photo by Natalie Togtman invited to a fellowship hall across man and that really helps broaden to see firsthand the hurt that actions can cause, people St. Paul Lutheran Church decorated for Christmas when German students from the church for a time of eat- your mind to the different types of who needed to learn that forgiveness isn’t ever easy, attended church service on Dec. 3. ing and fellowship with members worship.” people who needed to hear from someone who expe- rienced something like they did, because it happens more often than any of us think. parents, students, alumni and Thankfully, I have not experienced any negative Illiana hires new possibly future students and par- Flood of funds feedback since I spoke. I was surrounded, literally, by ents on Illiana. The first article on an enormous group hug of people who were there to marketing director the blog was about the close up to raise ARC support me and tell me how much what I did meant to Kylie Boss crease community awareness, es- trip. Jordan Bivins them. I am so glad that I had them and those people Reporter pecially in the area where the new Dutton said, “The blog is a lot Reporter mean the world to me, but I have to tell you the truth, I school will be. more in depth [than the social me- wouldn’t have changed what I did even if I didn’t have Mrs. Jenna Dutton has tak- Dutton, said Boonstra, is well dia pages].” Illiana has raised those people in the end. en a position at Illiana as marketing qualified for the job, with back- The difference between $1.2 million for comple- It was the people who came to me and to the director starting in December. Her ground work experience in mar- Dutton’s, Admission Director tion of the ARC (Arts, counselors that day and spoke up for the first time position, according to Principal keting at Trinity Christian College. Mrs. Marie Limback’s, and Da- Recreation, and Commu- about what had happened to them. They made it all Peter Boonstra, has been created to Dutton is a member of the com- vids’s jobs is a fine line. All of nity Center) at the new worth it. help Illiana become better known munity of South Holland, IL. She their jobs overlap is some way, campus but still needs In the past couple of months since allegations in the community. graduated from Timothy Christian said Boonstra. Limback, ac- $300,000 to finish the first started pouring out, I have heard far too much “Some people I’ve talked to High School and Trinity Christian cording to Boonstra, is mainly in construction. negative feedback from people who are ignorant. I’ve in this area claim to have never College with a marketing dwegree. charge of admission and recruit- Mr. Lance Davids, who is heard accusations that: ‘these women are doing it for known [Illiana] existed,” said Dutton has already started ing 7th and 8th grade students. working beside Principal Peter the money, for the spotlight.’ This sickens me. First of Boonstra. Boonstra, with the help a new ICHS blog, found on the Davids does fundraising for Illi- Boonstra to raise funds for the all, no one is getting any money from this, and second, of Dutton and Fundraising Direc- Illiana website. Its purpose, ac- ana, and Dutton does marketing project, said he reached out to why would anyone want fame for something like this? tor Lance Davids, hopes to in- cording to Dutton, is to update of Illiana’s brand. members of the community to Why would they put themselves in such a vulnerable help finish phase one of - con position, even if they knew that they could be laughed Competition promotes constitutional savy struction, asking donors to at, ridiculed, slut-shamed, dehumanized, and disbe- continue to share the vision of lieved, if none of it were true? When I think about building hearts and minds. the emotional toll on me to humble myself to speak “We have incredibly to the entire school, I can’t even imagine the courage faithful people in support that these other women must have to speak before a of this,” Davids said. national audience. When I spoke up, I knew reveal- One bit of good fortune is ing the truth could end in me even getting hurt even saving ICHS some money on worse. It could end with me, the victim, being blamed the project. The Holiday Star for the wrong done to me. But I didn’t care. Plaza Theatre in Merrillville is These courageous women have sparked an in- being torn down, and its own- ternational movement, a flood of women coming er held a liquidation sale. Mr. forward and speaking up. And despite the intimida- Boonstra and art teacher Mr. Photo by Jeff White. tion, sometimes violent, that has been shown to these Illiana’s We the People team poses at their competition at the Dirksen Federal Building. Jim Kamphuis went to the the- women, their voices are only growing louder. I ap- ater before demolition began plaud these women and I applaud Time magazine Jo Mulder on relevant historical and con- In teams of two to four peo- to find working equipment to for giving them an even greater voice. Time was Co-Photo Editor temporary issues during a sim- ple, students presented their argu- put in the ARC. Doing so al- debating between these victims and survivors of sex- ulated congressional hearing,” ments. After giving their opening lowed them to get professional ual offenses and a man who has been accused of and We the People Club, a group according to classroomlaw.org statements, they put their notes light and sound equipment for bragged about being a perpetrator of such offenses, of 14 students, sponsored by Mr. Our students had prepared away and the judges began ask- pennies on the dollar. our very own president. I hope that there is some truth Jeff White, competed downtown for the few weeks before the ing a steady flow of questions. “As a theater-tech guy, in saying that times are changing. No longer will we on Friday, Dec. 9. event, and the members com- The team had to answer based on getting a 1000 watt light for diminish such offenses and stand for these accusations The We the People Com- peting stayed after school on their understanding and memori- $10 was probably my favor- to go unnoticed. We will not give these perpetrators petition allows students to Preview Illiana Night to write zation of historical events that had ite find,” Kamphuis said. the power that they do not deserve. “demonstrate their understand- their opening statements for been affected by the constitution. Both Davids and As Time’s Person of the Year, I am tell- ing of constitutional principles each issue under discussion. According to Junior Austin Boonstra are extremely ing you that the truth is ringing. We are and have opportunities to On the day of the event, the Parks, the groups knew their is- confident the ARC will at a watershed moment culturally. Which evaluate, take positions, and ul- club members met at school early sues well and received positive be ready for the fall of side of history do you want to be on? timately defend their positions to catch a bus to Chicago. feedback from the judges. the 2018-19 school year. News 3 Teach takes charge of Dorchaeus program Maddie Holesinger Other students believe the pro- the leaders are talking to each of their Co-Editor in Chief gram was not successful for a myriad groups and staying on task. of other reasons. “Our school needs the social and In an effort to revive the Dor- “I joined [Dorchaeus] to make a emotional support for students,” said chaeus program and make it better, its difference; I was paired with a fresh- Teach. “Getting students involved with founder, Mr. Lance Davids, is handing man girl, and I just didn’t do that much other students is an easy [solution] for the program over to Mrs. Heidi Teach, to help her,” said Paul Kamp, a senior. the issue.” one of the new teachers in the resource “That was my fault. But I think that Teach first heard about Dorchae- room. The Dorchaeus program was the program wasn’t set up to be suc- us at a faculty meeting. Later in the an idea put to action three years ago cessful. In my opinion it wasn’t a good year, Teach went to Mrs. Helen Bus- by Davids. It is a mix of Dory, the fish forum for change. I think it could have sema to talk about a way to provide from “Finding Nemo” that keeps on worked better if we had been paired the support kids with emotional and swimming, and Zacchaeus, the little with someone more similar to us.” disability needs. Bussema brought up man who wanted to see Jesus. Both Last year, Davids, with the help Dorchaeus, so Teach went to Davids to characters promote encouragement of Ms. Kim Mesman, started the pro- find out more about the program. Photo by Grant Gibson and caring for the lost. gram up again, but when busyness “There are kids here that don’t Illiana students prepare for the 8-person event. “I don’t want kids feeling alone,” struck, the program began to fade. have friends, and it’s like there should said Davids. “I always want us to be “I’ve got too much on my plate never, in a Christian school, be kids the hands, the feet, and the heart of right now, but the program is too im- without friends,” said Teach. “No Illiana hosts first Jesus. And sometimes if we aren’t in- portant so I’m handing it over,” said kid should feel like an outsider; every tentional about that, it doesn’t happen.” Davids. student should feel included no mat- The first year the Dorchaeus pro- Teach hopes to make the pro- ter their race, or gender, or anything math competition gram was introduced, many students gram into a club. That way she can else.” were involved. meet with the leaders more regularly. “[My vision] is for the whole Jaden Denton points, 2nd place scoring “I thought [the program] would The leaders have been recommended school to be a place where all stu- 501, and Illiana falling in Reporter be a cool way to be a light to another by Davids. Her goal is to have more dents feel accepted, where everyone 3rd with 500. student who may need help,” said se- leaders watching over fewer students can get an education, where every Illiana’s math team “Lots of people were nior Grace VanDam, who was a part of all of whom will be paired with some- child can come here and feel safe,” took third place and nearly mad and frustrated,” said the program her sophomore year. one. That way she can make sure that said Teach. squeaked by with second junior Sam Boonstra. place title, falling short by Tom Gu, a freshman, only one point on Saturday, believes that everyone did Dec. 3, at the Metro Subur- really well but was a little ban Conference Math Com- disappointed at the near Show must go on petition. win. Junior Raul Garcia par- was a really good gospel message. It Peter Boonstra met drama students Algebra 2 Junior and School board, from Page 1 ticipated in the Algebra 2 does portray Jesus in it, but the thing to inform them of the Board’s deci- Pre-Calculus Senior teams section of the competition. The school board also received that made me look past that is that sion and that there might be no mu- both took 1st in their sec- “We tried our best,” said letters from several parents and one we’re not going to be worshipping sical this year. Because of the stu- tions. The Junior/Senior 8 Garcia. “There was a lot of church sharing their concerns about the person on stage. We know that dents’ motivation to put on a show, person team took 2nd and people and a lot of noise, the musical and its portrayal of Jesus he’s trying to share the gospel mes- however, the directors announced the 2 person team of Mat- but it was fun.” Christ violated Lord’s Day 35 in the sage with other people.” two days later that they would put thew Haak and Andrew This competition hap- Heidelberg Catechism. Having received the com- on a show. English teacher, Mrs. Feikema took 2nd. Indi- pens to be the very first All students and parents contacted plaints, the board decided to recon- Ginny Dykstra’s quick thinking vidual honors went to Grant ever hosted by Illiana, but who were not in favor of “Godspell” sider the musical only a week before offered the idea to combine all of Gibson, Sam Boonstra, and hosting didn’t worry Mr. declined interviews for this story. auditions, scheduling their board Illiana’s previous musical produc- Audrey Luo who tied for Doug Gorter, Illiana teacher Kamphuis said, “My interpre- meeting for the night auditions were tions. With the working title “The 2nd in the Algebra 2 divi- and co-coach of math team. tation of the 2nd Commandment is to start. Musical directors and letter Show Must Go On,” the drama de- sion. Matthew Haak took He said, “I’m glad nothing that ‘graven images,’ intended for writers were invited to speak their partment is committed to making 2nd in the Pre-Calculus di- bad happened, and I’m very worship, are sinful - our portrayal minds before the board voted. this happen in time. Despite the vision. proud of the students.” of Jesus in ‘Godspell’ would not Kamphuis, Sliekers, and La- struggle to secure rights, to plan The overall scores of The next competition have been that. The Heidelberg gerwey spoke at the board meeting. ahead, or even to have a script. the entire competition were for math team will be at Catechism Lord’s Day 35 tells us “[We] all spoke about the message “We all have favorite songs unbelievably close with the Lemont in January. that ‘God cannot be portrayed in any of ‘Godspell,’” said Kamphuis, “fo- from past musicals that we’d love 1st place team scoring 506 way;’ we agree, and would not have cusing primarily on the building of a to hear again,” said Kamphuis, “but presumed to show a depiction of an group of individuals into a commu- a lot depends on the students who almighty, incomprehensible God nity, and ultimately into God’s King- audition and where we feel their Better Illiana Club leads student onstage. We know two things about dom. We tried to make the mem- gifts might best be used. We plan ‘God’s image’ from Scripture: that bers of the board understand how to also spend a lot of time writing a mankind was created in His likeness, important this show could be to the framework for this show that gives body to serve with Phil’s Friends and that when God revealed Himself spiritual development of the students it some cohesion - we’d like this to to us at the Incarnation, the form He who would participate and the audi- still be a musical, in the traditional Dominic Turkstra rooms.” chose was that of a human being. As ence members who would attend. sense, rather than just a ‘greatest Reporter This project is another Mrs. Lagerwey is fond of saying, We shared some of our ideas for hits’ concert!” way to connect with your Jesus was 100% God, and 100% hu- staging the show, and talked about Fabrizius, who knows as little as On Tuesday, Dec. 12, homeroom other than Go man. It was His total humanity that elements from other productions that everyone else about what the new mu- homerooms began to fill out Day, Lagerwey added. allowed Him to experience life on we would definitely avoid. We also sical will look like, has dreams of being get-well cards as a service Phil’s Friends is an or- Earth as a real person, minus the sin, talked about the potential impact, if able to play Jean Valjean or Javert in a project with Phil’s Friends. ganization which originated of course, to take on the burden of ‘Godspell’ were cancelled and the recap of “Les Miserables.” He along Better Illiana through Bet- in Roselle, Illinois, and it our sins for us, to endure real suffer- musical needed to be postponed, on with 35 others auditioned for the new ter Understanding orga- supports cancer patients in ing and pain, to die a very real death, other groups at Illiana, such as ath- musical on Monday and Tuesday, nized the school wide ef- the United States and many and for that death to actually mean letics, Fine Arts, and the [spring mis- Dec. 18 and 19. More than a hundred fort. countries around the world. something.” sion] trips.” students are usually involved in the Senior Esther Lagerwey The cards will be mailed Senior Tom Ericks, who has After several long hours, the spring musical in one way or another. said, “I am excited to be to Phil’s Friends on Dec. been involved in all of Illiana’s pre- board reversed its decision, to allow Kamphuis said, “We’re trying to managing this. It will be a 15, and the organization vious productions throughout his “Godspell” to be performed. do the impossible, and we’re going to lot of work, but it will also will distribute the cards to time at Illiana said, “I thought that it The next morning, principal need all the help we can get!” bring unity with the home- cancer patients afterward. 4 Feature You are the Easter Bunny. Not even slightly Do you understand Ugly Christmas You know what the better Christian Start flow charts? Here sweaters? Thanks, holiday really is. Your mind does not Yes but I’ll pass! have the capacity to follow arrows. When does You are Scrooge. all me crazy, but I hate ugly Never Christmas sweaters. Before you Christmas start? You hate spending money and C stop reading and write me off as a don’t understand the hype of Christmas hater, let me explain. To start, I love the Christmas season Winter Christmas. as many do. Breaking It doesn’t stop! from school, spending Would you time with family, at- tending parties, eat- rather stay inside Go Outside ing food, and cele- or go outside during brating Jesus’ birth What is the the winter? all create a won- derful holiday best way to spread Giving What would you season. The Christmas cheer? rather do? Christmas season also Stay Inside brings the Would you Cate Peerbolte cold weather rather give or get Co-Feature Editor with it. And Singing presents? Make a cold weather Are you tired of means boots, scarves, and sweaters. snow angel Christmas-themed sweaters have been your crazy family? around for a long time. Traditional Christ- What are you Get mas sweaters were the most popular in Give the 1980s. Wool pullovers stitched with more generous Have a snowflakes, trees, and jingle bells became with? Yes No mainstream. Cardigans with festive pat- snowball fight terns, colors, and buttons were the style of the season. These sweaters bought a new sense to holiday style – because they were They’re in style. Gifts Time Why? Christmas sweaters have disobeyed annoying one of the biggest fashion rules: let it go, and it will come back. But instead of let- ting go, we added an adverb. A very rude I’m forgotten adverb: ugly. I would not like to be called ugly, and I don’t think that you would like to be either. So why is it okay to name a style Do you from the 80s ugly? If it is ugly, then it is What Christmas start or end snow- out of style and shouldn’t be worn. character are you? For some reason we clenched tightly ball fights? to this style and have created a cultural Follow the Echo’s Christmas ritual around it. It seems that every day in flow chart to see which Christ- December there is an ugly sweater event: a party, a brunch, a dance, a day at the ice- mas character best descrbies End Start skating rink, a day at the bowling alley. your personality. Alaskan Airlines even let passengers who wore ugly Christmas sweaters on Decem- Characters include: Bud- dy the Elf, Ebenezer Scrooge, ber 15th get early boarding privileges. You are the Elf on the Shelf. Don’t have a sweater from the 80s? The Elf on the Shelf, Frosty Don’t worry. Walk into any store that sells You are sneaky and mysterious. Your clothing and a rack of ugly sweaters will the Snowman, Jack Frost, Kev- favorite thing to do is to spend hours be readily available for you to purchase. in McCallister, Mariah Carey, stalking people on Instagram. For only $14.99 you can buy an out-of- Mrs. Claus, and Santa Claus. style, itchy, sweater you will only wear once a year! Doesn’t dressing up in a sweat- You are Mariah Carey. You are Kevin McCallister. er from the 80s and laughing at it seem You will belt out Christmas music You enjoy Christ- mas, but you can strange? Or what about buying a hideous sweater because other people think it’s anytime you can and want it to be easily get over- whelmed and funny? I don’t think it’s funny to denounce playing year-round. It is your life. often need a break from your family. the 80s fashion. And I really don’t think it’s funny to buy a sweater with a foolish saying on it. What happened to holiday el- egance? Parties with dresses and ties? Or You are Mrs. Claus. You are Jack Frost. what about just wearing fun, fashionable Your house is decked out in You are a trickster and love to outfits to celebrate? Christmas decorations, and you start conflicts. You are fasci- These sweaters have been dragged through time, and now it is on the last love baking for others. nated with all aspects of winter. thread. Ugly Christmas sweaters have been in style–or well out of style – since the 1980s. I understand that they will be as You are Santa Claus. You are Buddy the Elf. You are Frosty the Snowman. much a part of some families’ Christmas You love giving gifts and taking You are all about Christmas. You You are jolly and love having traditions as skiing over Christmas is to mine, but I will be wearing my new (in- care of animals. You are com- think candy should be the only food innocent fun with children. You style) chunky knit sweater this Christmas. passionate and jolly. we eat and have a cannon for an arm. come alive in the winter. Feature 5 Fix Christmas Not your average hristmas is boring. Call me a Scrooge, but something about the stale Christmas Csongs, overabundance of cheap decora- tions, tedious family cards, etc. just sounds an alarm, or jingles the bells, in my brain. It’s all been done before, and I’ve seen it all. Christmas traditions When my mind was a clean slate and I had yet to experience Cutting into symbolic birthday cake many things, Christ- mas fascinated me. Liz VanDrunen all people have sinned. The red They carry out this tradi- tradition because it reminds I loved the snow, the Co-Feature Editor layer symbolizes Jesus’ blood tion every year on Christmas me of how this season isn’t story, the sights, that was shed for our sin. The Eve when they go to their about the gifts we give and the sounds. “My unique Christmas green layer represents the new grandparents’ house. receive. It’s about celebrating But, like a tradition is that every year on life we have in Christ after our Dykstra said, “I love that the birth of Christ and not for- song playing Christmas Eve, my grandma sins have been washed away. my grandma continues this getting about it.” on repeat for makes ‘Jesus’ Birthday Cake.’” A star sits on top which led the hour, it grew Grant Gibson said junior Katie Dykstra. wise men to the stable,” said repetitive and Co-Feature Editor “Every detail on and in Dykstra. predictable the cake has a meaning. The “I don’t exactly remember by the time I had taken my first high school exam. cake is round which represents when it started. All I remem- Although you might “get a sentimental feel- the whole world that Jesus was ber is that it’s been a thing ever ing when you hear voices singing, ‘Let’s be jolly” born into. The frosting is white since I was little. It’s mainly for when you hear it, Christmas music especially hits which stands for the righteous- the little kids in the family, who a sour note with me. Name any better-known ness and purity of Christ. The don’t know about the story of Christmas song, and I’ll be able to sing the first cake consists of three layers: Christ being born. I think that few verses and the chorus. Once I know the black on bottom, red in the it’s a great reminder to the words to a song, its power to mean something or middle, and green on top. The whole family about the birth of Photo from www.pinterest.com influence “the most wonderful time of the year” black represents that the fact that our Christ Jesus,” said Dykstra. Other families also bake layered cakes sybolizing Christ. is gone, because every “thumpity thump‒pa rum pum pum pum” gets older the more it’s played despite its genre, tune, or season. Today, I usually Matching pajamas greet the ceaseless “Yuletide carols” with an eye- roll or a “Why do I even have this radio station as a preset still?” And don’t even get me started on for all cousins their meaningless lyrics. Liz VanDrunen in our trees as a special Christmas lights and decorations are another ornament to remember Co-Feature Editor problem. The industry can only put out so much them.” content for avid consumers before people have to Junior Lyla Koois- Kooistra isn’t sure start getting creative. You can keep stringing those tra said, “Every year when the tradition start- crappy lights, which seem to go out every other our Grandma Claus- ed, but she thinks it be- year, across the gutter, sure, but it eventually be- ing gets us [all of the gan when they were two comes a chore which requires more effort than it cousins] matching or- or three years old. Photo from www.bungenorthamerica.com reaps reward. Instead, for example, you could fol- naments and pajamas. “We all love get- Another family’s rendition of the sweet bread with baby Jesus. low in my neighbor’s footsteps and buy Chinese She likes to give us all ting those presents be- lanterns, stake them into your yard, wrap them in equal shares of pres- cause they are meaning- layers of lights, and call them enlarged ornaments. ents, and the ornaments ful; they come from our Christmas tamales, sweet I could tell you instead to go against what usually have a picture grandparents and they is mainstream, to do your own thing, but that’s of her and Grandpa so want us all to be happy,” bread spice up Christmas what caused Christmas to end up how it is now: we could hang them up said Kooistra. a commercially vital but annoying shell of the Cate Peerbolte Christmas, on my Father’s real Christmas story. Co-Feature Editor side, we always have a Somewhere along the line, some market- sweet bread ring called ing gurus came up with the great idea to link Junior Raul Garcia Rosca de Reyes. It looks their products with the festive holiday. Yes, it said, “In the week ap- like an oversized donut, may have been great for sales and, later on, proaching Christmas we but it has four or five today’s economy, but it’s not so great for baby [his sister, mother, god- plastic babies baked into Jesus, lying neglected in some back woods father, and uncle] go to it. My Godmother slices manger. And on that same line, a songwriter my Grandma’s house to the bread. Each person decided not to sing about the wondrous event make tamales. It is al- gets a piece and whoever of baby Jesus but about their wonderful sig- ways such a fun time. has a baby in their bread nificant other. Now, most Christmas songs are Not only do we make the is the winner. There isn’t romantic, and, sadly, I have to hear Mariah traditional tamales with a prize, but they still are Carey’s shrill voice every year. meat in them, but we the winner. Once, a baby Because of those changes, among other also make sweet tamales was sliced in half because Photo courtesy of Lyla Kooistra things, people have stopped focusing on what with red dye in them. My it was between two piec- The Clausing cousins pose for a family photo in their matching pajamas. really matters, like giving back to the communi- mother always looks like es. On that day we also ty through serving. In contrast, we fill that time she is leaving a murder play Christmas-themed with shopping sprees and more work to make scene when she is done games. We have a compe- Family celebrates Christmas up for money spent. Then we justify ourselves mixing the red dye into tition of who can unwrap by attending, if not participating in, a Christian the dough, because her a Hershey’s kiss the fast- Christmas program and call it a (holi-)day. And entire arms are stained est with oven mitts on. with country twang this is all acceptable to us, to us Christians. with the red color. We We also get into groups fore they celebrate with So redo Christmas. Do things differently. Be make a lot of tamales, and turn a family member Haleigh Olthof other Christmas tradi- a good neighbor and stop worrying about buying at least three dozen for into a Christmas character Co-News Editor tions. Each year, they or receiving gifts. Instead, support new Christmas everyone in the fam- like a snowman or a tree also read Luke 2, listen content from Christian singers and ease up on the ily. Each family mem- with items from around “Before we open any to “Happy Birthday, Je- gifts; you can give better things, like your time. ber gets some and we eat the house. We also do a presents, we sit and read sus” by Reba McEntire, Get more involved. Pack some Christmas meals them all the way until the gift exchange by drawing a devotional,” said Mia and light a candle near for those that can’t afford that luxury. Your choice new year.” numbers that correspond Roth. The family wants their family’s nativity to change impacts and benefits others around you, Garcia said, “At to a gift.” to reflect on Christ be- scene. reflecting the very reason that Christ was born. 66 Arts and Leisure Looking back on...

Another year has flown by, and with it, events and trends that set this year apart from the rest. We laughed at everything from Salt Bae and Riverdale to the dancing Snapchat hot dog man, and we mourned over mass shoot- ings and sexual harassment. Looking back, these are the things that we will remember about 2017. Celebrating Christmas music around world

Lauren Curtis Puerto Rico knows Do you hear Co-Arts Editor how to do Christ- the sound of drums? Every year at Christmas, mas right: Party Spain we are bombarded with the Puerto Rico “La Fi- “Fum,Fum,Fum”: same handful of Christmas esta De Pilito”: For the If you are looking songs, and after a while, it band, El Gran Combo, for a fast-paced, all begins to feel washed the best part of Christ- catchy song, this out. We’ve strayed from the mas is the food, and who is perfect for you. traditional Christmas mu- can blame them? They The fum,fum,fum sic to find a few songs from love the food parties so sound heard in around the globe to spice up much, that they decide the song, mim- the holiday season. to write a song about it.“La Fiesta De Pilito” is the type of ics the sound of Oh baby, I’ve falling in song that you would want to play at a party because it is the stringing of very danceable. From the beginning to the end, it makes you love on Christmas Day a guitar or of want to get on your feet. In the song, El Gran Combo talks the beating of a South Korea: “Snow about forgetting the problems of the past, present and future drum. The lyr- Candy”: Falling in love on because Christmas is coming. This song definitely gives off ics celebrate the Christmas Day? So cliche, a carefree vibe, perfect for the holiday season. birth of Christ. but K-pop group, Starship Planet knows how to sing it Santa, could you come a little sooner? Dreaming of right. In this upbeat Christ- what a white mas song, these lovers tell France “Petit Papa Noel”:“Petit us how falling in love is as Papa Noel” or “Little Father Christmas might sweet as candy. This song Christmas” is one of look like has everything from singing France’s most beloved Lebanon “Talj, to even a little bit of rap Christmas songs. Though Talj”:Although very cheesy, the song is snow isn’t some- cute because it’s thing very common sung by a young in Lebanon, that child. He explains didn’t stop Fairuz how he is anxiously from singing what awaiting the arrival of has become one of Santa Claus. In addition to Lebanon’s most be- having his mind on pres- loved songs. In this ents, he seems to be very song, she talks about the effect that the snow has on concerned as to whether everything from flowers to clouds. She continues to Santa stays warm or not. dream for a white Christmas that may never come. Sports 7 Illiana’s first ever male cheerleader Sports Catch-ups defies boundaries, gravity Girls Basketball Beth Boonstra Cheer is harder than most peo- not. For me [the negative feedback] Co-Editor in Chief ple think according to Bass. He said is consistent, so it’s just whatever at Kade Bouwer game. that they worked on sideline cheers this point. I just deal with it….” Co-Sports Editor Assistant coach Tom Illiana’s newest up-and-coming for one day and spent the rest of the Bultema touches on a difference Knapper said, “We need play- cheerleader is a flexible jumper, a time practicing for routines and com- in team dynamic in having a male on The girls basketball team ers to want to take the ball to quick learner, and a trailblazer-- Illi- petitions. the team. “The team definitely has has stumbled off to a disap- the basket. For a couple of ana’s first and only male cheerleader. Cheer captain Gracie Bultema to be careful of how our feelings and pointing start. After winning games, we didn’t really have Junior Christopher Bass may not said, “Everyone thought something emotions come out. We used to talk their first game they have been anybody finishing at the rim. wear a bow and glitter, but he cheers was wrong. They didn’t like a coed about relationship problems and our on a twelve game losing streak. If you got turnovers, and no- just as fiercely as the rest. team because it’s out of the ordinary. feelings. Sometimes he feels a little A stark contrast from last years body wants to take the ball to “Chris is an incredible asset to I feel like the Loud Crowd game uncomfortable.” team which had only nine loss- the basket, offensively you’re our team,” said cheer coach Carisa was a chance for Chris to show the Gerstner said, “There is noth- es for the entire season. done.” Beezhold. “He has amazing jumps, school his skills. He did amazing, ing different to me. His smile, per- Their offense has held The team, despite its poor is now tumbling at an advanced lev- and I hope that people will respect sonality, and sass is what makes him them back for most of the record, has not given up on the el, and adds stability to our stunts and him for choosing the cheer team Christopher Bass himself. Being season. They have averaged season yet. pyramids.” She said that the girls because he has worked so hard to be a boy doesn’t stop him from doing 29.8 points per game, while Junior guard Kelsie De- were now working harder on their where he is now.” what he loves. Yes, of course we shooting just 28% from the rico said, “I’m not saying the jumps just to try to keep up with him. Junior cheerleader Lily Gerst- are used to an all girl team, but we field. Turnovers have plagued season is going to get easier, Surprisingly, Bass has not had ner has received feedback on both don’t love each other for being girls; the offense as they have- av but I’m saying that it is going any gymnastics experience other ends of the spectrum with comments we love each other because we are a eraged 28.2 turnovers per to get better.” than personal stretching, but he has from “‘Wow, that boy is really good,’ cheer family.” had cheer experience and many all the way to, ‘Hey, is that boy on Beezhold said, “One lady actu- Boys Basketball of his family and friends do cheer. your team gay?’” Gerstner, along ally came down out of the stands at a They encouraged him to join this with the rest of the team, has never competition to tell Caitlyn, the assis- Jo Mulder has been working on just that. year, so he did. felt uncomfortable with the situation. tant coach, how impressed she was Smits said that smooth and Co-Sports Editor The dance choreographer has “He knows his job and does it with his jumps, not only the height fluid passing allows them to intentionally avoided hip swings or with the most respect possible,” she but also his technique. At the Seneca The varsity boys’ basket- move down the court more other moves for Bass’s sake. Bass said. tournament, the fans for the oppos- ball team, after some early quickly, making their play participates in everything except for Bass has come to accept the ing team wanted him to jump during stumbles, is currently boasting more efficient. According to the poms routines just like everyone negative feedback. “Some people timeouts they enjoyed watching him a 5-4 season. The team began senior Collin Flipse, the team else on the team. may take it well, some people may so much.” rough, but lately plays have has also shot better in recent begun to flow better on the games. court. Because the team does Flipse said that the team’s Cheer team tumbles to state competition not have many big bodies to “heart” and “how much they take up space under the hoop, want it” has given them the they have had to rely on their strength they need on the speed to give them the advan- court. He also said that be- tage. cause the team consists of so However, with their speed many juniors, inexperience they needed control under hurt at first, but the newcom- pressure, and according to ju- ers are figuring things out, nior Andrew Smits, the team which helps to improve play. Wrestling Alex Wondaal different moves.” Co-Sports Editor Sophomore Sam Dekker said the team has spent lots of The cheerleaders pose for picture after a Loud Crowd game Photo by Deb Kamp With a young and inexpe- time trying to learn different Cassie Laninga do really well together.” “For practices, we focus on rienced team, the wrestlers are approaches and new moves. Co-News Editor “I am really proud of our team,” things we need to work on and then off to a rocky 2-7 start. Senior Dekker said that he feels a said senior Grace Bultema. “We got do them repeatedly until it’s in our Isaac Lyzenga said the team sense of leadership even as a On Saturday, Dec. 16, the Illi- the most points and the highest level brains,” said sophomore Christo- goal is to win 5 matches this sophomore. ana cheerleading team captured a 4th in difficulty a team could get at the pher Bass. year. Despite the team being in place finish and qualified for state in competition.” The next step for the cheerlead- With a young group the midst of a rebuilding pe- New Berlin, Illinois, after also com- The cheerleading team contin- ers is to go to Springfield, Illinois in comes a lack of physical riod, Lyzenga has high hopes peting well on Dec. 9 for small var- ues to make progress, performing January for ICCA State. strength – strength that can- for his personal season. “I’m sity division. stunts at the start of this year that they “It’s a lot of fun. It’s a lot of not easily be accumulated in hoping to finish in the top Sophomore and first year mem- had not mastered until the end of last work,” said Neumeyer with a laugh. a single season. Coach Dean three at State,” said Lyzenga. ber on the team Kristine Neumeyer year. Bultema said, “Everyone on Bosman said, “Technique He said in order for his goals said, “We hit everything. We had a Sophomore Anna Lenting said, the team has differences, but be- needs to compensate for lack to be achieved, he’ll need to small mishap on the basket toss, but “I think we are doing pretty good cause we are all working toward of physical ability. We need work on his physical fitness we recovered well. Other than that, this season. We are making a lot of a common goal, we work well to- effectiveness to come from and endurance. the routine was really good. We all progress.” gether.” Male Athlete of the Month Female Athlete of the Month Josh Harris transferred to Illiana the sec- Senior guard Bethany Junker, playing ond semester of his freshman year. He played basketball at Illiana for her first time, has for the JV basketball team his sophomore year already made a big impact on the team. She and the Varsity team his junior and senior years. is the team’s second leading scorer and has This year Harris has led the team as the the highest 3-point shooting percentage on starting center and has averaged 10.2 points the team at 37%. and 10.1 rebounds per game. After playing basketball at Grant Park Harris takes pride in his rebounding: “I High School for her first two years, she want to be known as the rebound guy, the transferred to Illiana for her junior season, garbage man‒but not dirty,” said Harris. but she was not allowed to play due to eli- “The teammates this year are a great gibility rules of IHSA. group of guys,” added Harris. “They’re really “I love playing with these girls,” Junk- funny. Andrew Smits is a goofball, but I love er said. “ It doesn’t feel like my senior year him.” yet. I guess it just hasn’t kicked in.” 8 Opinion Recognizing signs Editorial of anxiety Bullying should have no home here met my best friend, Emily, four years ago, when we were both freshman. When we met, She’s new to the school, and good jobs away.” Not only are his to intimidate (someone), typically ing a teacher or parent would be I didn’t know she’d end up being one of my she’s having some trouble adjust- grandparents offended, but now he to force him or her to do what one the next best option. For the by- I biggest blessings, nor did I know she struggled with ing. She’s shy, quiet. Being in- wonders if everyone sees him that wants.” Bullies are typically people standers, stop watching and get anxiety. troverted, she has trouble making way. that feed off the weak in order to ei- involved. It isn’t hard to see that Being the outgoing, people-loving person I am, new friends easily. One boy seems These are but a few of the true ther make themselves feel better, to what the bully is doing isn’t right, having a best friend who strug- to take interest in her, but his inten- stories of students bullied at Illiana. gain attention from others, or both. so say something or stop watch- gles with anxiety can be diffi- tions seem less than honorable, so Going to school can be very stress- We typically think of bullying as ing. Most of the time, once a bul- cult sometimes. More often she cuts it off. The next day, she ful, taking tests, learning new ideas, knocking down someone’s books lies lose their audience, they stop. than not, I don’t understand finds that her car has been covered making new friends. Just imagine or tripping them in the hallway, Saying nothing makes bullying how she’s feeling because with condoms. This is too much having to deal with all this, plus but there are also other, less obvi- worse because the kid who is anxiety is something for her to bear, so she leaves the bullying. That could really push ous ways such as calling someone bullying will think it is okay. It is I’ve never had to school. someone to the edge. out of their name on social media never easy dealing with bullies, deal with. I’ve He’s been here since fresh- No one can look at those or purposefully hurting someone’s but doing so helps to remember learned a lot man year. Everything was going that we all are children of God about anxiety great, perfect family, good grades, “No one can look at those stories and should be treated as such. and depression but then his “ride-or-die” friends So, what’s next ? People do since we’ve randomly start to ignore him. and say that this is okay behavior not change over night, so don’t Riley Goodwin been friends, and They start rumors about him that expect anything more from a bully. Co-News Editor I’d like to think made others look at him differ- for a body of students that wears)) It takes time, and patience so 1. she’s learned ently. Now he eats alone at lunch. )help that person, sometimes bul- things from me They are a good group of the word ‘Christian’ on their lying stems from self-esteem is- that help her throughout her daily experiences black students, celebrating their sues or other problems not talked I thought I knew about anxiety from books or culture during Black History chests like badges.” about. Helping the bully can help posts on social media, but I never really understood Month. They innocently hang the community too. Tell an adult, the severity of it until I became close with Emily. She posters on their lockers, not expect- stories and say that this is okay be- feelings. who can find them the help that also struggles with social anxiety, but it isn’t as severe ing it to be a problem. A few stu- havior for a body of students that So, how should we respond they need and eventually they will as her overall anxiety. If she’s out in public, she’d rather dents notice this and decide to rip wears the word ‘Christian’ on their to bullying? Although fight- change. 2. Pray for them-- actually pee her pants than ask someone where the bathroom them down, an act that comes off chests like badges. Our oppressive ing back with words and fists pray for them-- to have the strength is. Whenever we’re in a drive-thru together, she’ll ask as racists and hurtful to the black behavior does not show that we sounds like a good answer, it’s to change. 3. Lastly, stay with me to order her food for her because she gets flustered students. are Christians, and it needs to stop not. It only makes things worse. them. Don’t just get them some talking to people. Another big thing for her is making He is a Chinese transfer stu- if we want to continue to wear the That doesn’t mean not to stand help, and say “now it’s someone phone calls. Whether it’s to make an appointment or dent. He brings his grandparents Lord’s name on our chests. up to bullies, though. Something else’s problem.” As Christians, we call a store to ask a question, she struggles with it, so to school for Grandparents Day. But in order to fix the prob- as simple as calling them out are supposed to stick together and she’ll have me make the calls for her. They are having a great time until lem, we need to know how to look on their behavior could cause help one another. Bullying isn’t just When it comes to her everyday anxiety, the his teacher addresses them as “im- for it. Bullying is defined as “us- them to change. Of course, this the problem of the person being smallest of things bothers her for months, things the migrants who are taking all the ing superior strength or influence does not always work, so tell- bullied; it is everyone’s problem. average person would forget a few minutes afterward. For example, if she had an awkward conversation the with someone and she felt like she said something weird, she’d continue to think about it and think about Echo)))) it to the point where she loses sleep at night. Or, if she Editors-in-chief did something goofy but people thought she was just acting weird, she’d overthink that as well. Beth Boonstra Overthinking is a big part of her anxiety. She Maddie Holesinger News constantly needs reassurance from me that I still love Haleigh Othof ) ) her and want to be her friend. There are times when Cassie Laninga ) she’s afraid something she says will offend me and Riley Goodwin make me stop being her friend, so she won’t say it at Feature all. Deep down she knows I’m not going anywhere, Grant Gibson but she still gets caught up in the fear of not having Liz VanDrunen me in her life. This can be really frustrating because Cate Peerbolte I’ve never experienced anything like this, but I do my Arts best to be understanding, loving, and uplifting in every Natalie Togtman situation. More often than not, I’m Emily’s voice of Lauren Curtis reason. Thankfully, she appreciates when I’m straight Sports forward with her and tell her everything is fine and Alex Wondaal she’s really just overthinking something. But, there are Kade Bouwer times when what I say matters to her, but she doesn’t Jo Mulder do anything with it because she can’t see the same Photos endpoint I can. That’s just how her brain works. Cassie Laninga That’s another thing that’s been difficult for me to Grant Gibson wrap my head around. Sometimes I want to tell her to Jo Mulder just ‘stop thinking about it’ or ‘calm down, it isn’t that Cate Peerbolte big of a deal’ but then I remember that it isn’t her fault. Advisor Emily is not the only person who deals with this Jeff DeVries mental disease, either. People all around you struggle Editorials, unless otherwise stated, have with anxiety, people you’d never guess. Don’t give been written by an editor and reflect the Merry Christmas them a hard time for being the way they are, especially opinion of the majority of the Echo staff. if, like me, you don’t fully understand what’s going on. Opinions expressed are not necessarily that Don’t assume someone is being standoffish or rude of the administration, faculty, or student orga- because they aren’t speaking. They may be dealing nizations. with the same issues as Emily. Letters to the editor can be submitted the Echo from staff! Emily didn’t choose to have anxiety. Nobody to the advisor or sent to the school. All let- ters must be signed and must not exceed 250 does. She’d do anything not to have to deal with being words. They will be printed provided there is anxious and nervous all day. I’ve learned that the only thing I can do is pray for her, love her, and continue to enough room and content is not offensive to The newspaper is a forum for expression; therefore, we the general public. Names will not be wfor be the uplifting friend that I’ve been, and everyone else encourage feedback or commentary. Please contact us at doing so. should do the same. [email protected]