» Read more: A Year in Review: Music, movies, weddings, news headlines and more on Page 6.

TheNeuqua Valley’s Echo Student Newspaper December 30, 2018 Neuqua Valley High School @NV_ECHO Volume 21 Issue 4 2360 95th St. Naperville, IL 60564 nvecho.weebly.com Weed legalization: Learning with Dignity Act when the smoke clears raises questions in district 204 Emma Wightkin Allison Blaszak are not readily available in bathrooms, she Student Life Editor Staff Writer has to walk from the restroom to class in Pot, weed, grass, dope, or, in more order to get a pass and then travel to the technical terms, marijuana, originated MEME OF The state of Illinois has passed the nurse’s office in order to receive what she as a medicinal herb in Asia around 500 Learn with Dignity Act created on Jan. needs. B.C. It has now become a part of pop THE MONTH 1, 2018, requiring both middle and high The students from the high schools spoke culture, with recreational use featured -Paige Smith- schools to provide free menstrual prod- to the school board, in light of the lack in mainstream media. Although medi- ucts in the bathrooms at high schools and of the law’s implementation at schools, cal use has been accessible throughout 2018 was truly the year of the meme, middle schools. So far, there has been no and stated that menstrual products many states in America since the 1990s, in January teens were eating tide pods change in district 204 schools. Students should be available not only in the nurse’s recreational use of the substance didn’t and watching Logan Paul. In February, from Metea Valley, Waubonsie Valley and office, but in the bathrooms themselves. become legal until 2012. Colorado was our FBI agents were texting us and kids Neuqua Valley High School have no- Metea Valley student Abbey Malbon ex- the first state to legalize marijuana, and were playing Fortnite. In March we were ticed that the district had not yet made plained in an interview with the Chicago by 2016 California, Nevada, Maine, laughing at spongebob memes. In April the changes required by the law and spo- Tribune that this would allow easier ac- and Massachusetts had followed suit. we couldn’t get enough of the yodeling ken to school officials about their con- cess to necessities like pads and tampons Recently, Michigan made recreational boy. In May we had debates over yanny cerns. In an interview with the Chicago and reduce the embarrassment of telling marijuana legal, and many are begin- and laurel. In June we got upset over Tribune, Louis Lee the assistant superin- the teacher the reason for going to the ning to consider, and even fear, the re- IHOP’s poor marketing decision and fell tendent for high schools, stated that the nurse’s office. sults if Illinois is next. Although there in love Incredibles two. In July everyone current district policy regarding menstru- Kerry Cahill, Assistant Principal for is negative stigma surrounding the use came down with ligma and was doing the al products is to place them “directly in Operations, says that the school does of marijuana, it is hard to ignore the zoom challenge. In August we watched the restrooms located in the nurse’s of- plan to make some changes. According number of important benefits legaliza- jojo siwa destroy her hairline for 5 min- fice,” and says they will add “signs in all to Cahill, they “currently plan to desig- tion will contribute to the fight against utes straight and Johnny Johnny eating restrooms to make sure students know nate a bathroom on each floor of both racial disparity and to states’ law en- sugar. In September a moth fell in love where to go and [that] there is no cost.” [Neuqua] buildings” where products will forcement and economy. The criminal with a lamp. In October we got the bread The district has not yet placed the prod- be available. She says the current goal is status of marijuana and the enforce- and cringed at every tik tok we saw. And ucts in the bathrooms. In an interview to have this plan implemented by January. ment of the laws around it have been in November we watched surgery on a with NCTV17, Metea Valley student It is currently unclear if the other high shaped by racial tensions in America. Avani Shah called this “mundane and lu- grape. Now in December we must decide schools and middle schools intend to fol- See more of dicrous,” explaining that when products low suit. WEED LEGALIZATION: which meme reigns supreme as the 2018 on page 5. meme of the year. We had a great year in the meme commu- nity but in my opinion the top 5 memes for 2018 are tide pods, the yodeling boy, the international house of bad marketing Shonda Rhimes domintates the televi- decisions, ligma, and last but certainly not least, Jojo Siwa’s receding hairline. Although those are excellent memes only sion industry one in particular can take the spot for Dana Balmas meme of the year, with 6 out of 5 ha- and hilarious and disturbing and clinical rambes and that meme would definitely Staff Writer and maternal and cruel and judicious.”” be tide pods. For those of you who are Rhimes is also a strong feminist presence very lost let me explain. There are many The television world is constantly in society. Most of her shows, including commercials and labels telling parents to changing as audiences pick-up and drop “Grey’s Anatomy,” “Scandal,” “How to keep detergent pods away from their chil- shows to find what they truly love and Get Away With Murder,” “Station 19” dren because if eaten they can be fatal es- connect with. Many TV shows never and “Private Practice,” feature working pecially to small children. But the bright even survive the first season, let alone the women who are not afraid to put their colors of the tide pod and the shiny pilot episode. Fortunately for award-win- own work above the men in their lives. packaging caused teens to start referring ning director, writer and producer Shon- It is a value that many shows before hers Grey’s Anatomy, Rhimes’ longest-running show, the the pods as a ‘forbidden snack’. So of da Rhimes, her shows -- which she calls covers Meredith Grey, a doctor navigating the do not share, and she is a pioneer in the course teens starting making memes, eat- her “babies”-- are prevailing through the complicated life inside and outside the hospial. field of women’s empowerment. Rhimes ing them and getting hurt. In total there test of time. Some of her shows over the Photo courtesy of IMDb. explained her impact on television, say- were 86 reports of teens intentionally years include “Grey’s Anatomy,” “Scan- ing “a black woman built an empire of ingesting laundry detergent. But what re- dal,” “How to Get Away with Murder” humanity-themed TV shows. Do your ally did it for me with this meme at least and “Private Practice.” Rhimes has also is why each of her shows has sparked homework. Get woke. Black is not a was going to the grocery store had see- written three books throughout her ca- fires in the hearts of fans. Only someone theme. I am not a token. But I am a night ing that they locked up all of the deter- reer which each offer advice on how to who has completely fallen in love with of television.” Never afraid to share her gent pods so teens couldn’t get to them. live a happier life. She also serves as a her- the writing process can capture people voice, Shonda Rhimes maintains her own All though side splitting hilarious please oine to many people of color and women and their complex lives in the way that integral part of television. Her iconic ar- don’t eat tide pods or any detergent for who do not think they can make it in the she has. In a recent interview with the ray of shows airs every Thursday night, that matter. Until next year this has been male and white-dominated entertainment Guardian, Rhimes explained that she advertised as the Thank God It’s Thurs- @PaigeWillAlwaysLaugh with the meme industry. “love[s] working. It is creative and me- day (TGIT) lineup, and can be watched of the year. Her boldness in writing diverse characters chanical and exhausting and exhilarating on the ABC channel.

News Alliance For the Children 2 Sports Changing the Conversation for Inclusivity 4 Student Life Remaining eco-concious during the holidays 5

Edition Entertainment Streaming killed the radio stars 8

Profiles Livening up the Library 9 INside this this INside Focus Artists that will blow up in 2019 12 2 News November storm causes power outage Abigail McArthur-Self ers. The conditions have made repairing however, as these could lead to carbon News Editor the damage dangerous in some areas, and monoxide poisoning, and were cautioned the sheer volume of power outages has led to be careful when lighting fires for warmth During a storm on Sunday, Nov. 25, a to ComEd hiring extra contractors to help because blankets and similar items are high- number of houses in the Chicagoland area them reach affected residents more quickly. ly flammable. Residents using such -meth ORION’S have lost power. Initially, 350,000 residents All power was originally predicted to return ods were advised to always have one indi- lost power, at least 40,000 of which were Thursday, Nov. 29, but repairs continued vidual awake to ensure safety. OPINIONS without utilities for multiple days. into December. Some Chicagoland residents opted to -Orion Elrod- According to Paul Vandersteen, a science In interviews with the Daily Herald, res- leave their homes entirely and stay in local Once again, we are teacher at Neuqua, storms usually cause idents described their processes for stay- motels and hotels. power outages when they interfere with ing warm without heat. Bundling up was Some teachers and students at Neuqua being cheated above-ground power lines. This means that a common recommendation. Many also Valley lost power. Although Vandersteen older parts of the Chicagoland area were reported spending time at stores, libraries, himself did not, he explained that those he more likely to be impacted, as some newer friend’s houses and other places that hadn’t knew who did relied on friends and relatives Many states are scrambling to try to recti- areas have their power lines running under- lost their power to keep warm. Towels and who still had power. Because temperatures fy their dwindling population of teachers. ground. blankets were used to block doors and in- dropped below freezing, he said, it became According to the United States Census Commonwealth Edison (ComEd) sup- sulate walls. Some families were able to run dangerous for them to stay in their homes. Bureau, there has been a decrease of over plied the power to these homes and has small generators or battery operated appli- As of Dec. 6, the majority of residents 12 percent in college students majoring in been working to return it to them. The ances. had power again. education. An additional problem facing same weather conditions that created the Residents were warned away from run- the education community is the eight per- outage, ice and snow, have hindered work- ning gas appliances like camping stoves, cent of teachers who leave the profession before retirement To encourage people to pursue education majors, California reversed a law that banned education as a major in the state while Virginia enact- ArtiHarvest Rathore, Abagal McArthur-Self, Bible MacDonald Chapel is also suing Melinda sues Mahoney journalistcritics who runs a blog and free-lanc- ed emergency regulations allowing pub- Orion Elrod and Sarah Bryant, wives of Ryan Mahoney es for Christian magazines. In response to lic universities to offer the major. These Echo Staff and Scott Bryant respectively, who are not criticism stating that the lawsuit was enact- are both appropriate actions. They seek contributors to the website. The Harvest ed in order to suppress a story that Roys to encourage people to gain the training The Harvest Bible Chapel was founded Bible Chapel justifies this action on the was intending to publish, a document on necessary to lead a classroom. in 1988 in Rolling Meadows and has since grounds that the women help fund the site. the Harvest Bible website claimed that the The inappropriate response that many expanded. There are now several locations According to The Elephant’s Debt, how- issue is “her lack of objectivity.” It contin- states have enacted is to lower teacher including Aurora, Elgin and Chicago. The ever, the Harvest Bible Chapel has con- ued on to say that “her attempts to stir up requirements in order to encourage peo- church was founded by James MacDonald, tinually referred to suing three defendants, gossip, sow discord, inflame old animosi- ple to enter the field. In Arizona, Gover- who is now suing Julie Roys, Ryan and Me- leaving their wives out of the discussion, ties, and confront sensitive matters with nor Doug Ducey signed legislation that linda Mahoney and Sarah and Scott Bryant, which they believe could be an indicator specific church families in order to discred- passed the responsibility of determining who have criticized his church, for defama- that the church is “embarrassed by the fact it the church led [Harvest Bible] to include teacher certification onto school -dis tion. that they are suing the wives of the authors her in the lawsuit.” tricts. According to azcentral., after this Ryan Mahoney and Scott Bryant have been who wrote The Elephant’s Debt.”. According to the Cook County record was signed, over 1,000 unqualified teach- publishing their opinions of the church on James MacDonald is suing through the Il- of the Harvest Bible Chapel’s complaint, ers were given emergency certifications, a website called The Elephant’s Debt. The linois Deceptive Trade Practices Act which the church claimed that Roys “works ex- allowing any person with a bachelor’s website has criticized “the church's financ- “prohibits false and fraudulent advertise- tensively and in mutual partnership” with degree to forego almost all other state es and borrowing; changes to the govern- ments,” and allows “a private person” Ryan Mahoney and Scott Bryant. In the requirements and become a teacher. Al- ing structure of the church, including how to“bring an action for damages caused by past, Roys allegedly attempted to get Mac- though the shortage is a major issue, it much authority rests with MacDonald; the deceptive trade practice(s) of another.” Donald’s “Walk in the Word” radio pro- is not right to lessen the efficacy of stu- and the excommunication of three elders, According to the Daily Herald, MacDonald gram taken off the air. In response, the dents education by placing undereducated among other topics,” says the Daily Herald. claims that The Elephant’s Debt is harass- church canceled her planned appearance at teachers into their classrooms. Allowing According to the complaint issued to Cook ing the church and painting the chapel in a a women’s event in 2017. districts to determine qualifications is es- County by the Harvest Bible Chapel, Ryan “false light.” Roys is requesting that the prosecution sentially allowing them to cut corners in Mahoney and Scott Bryant met at the In response to the accusations, Ryan Ma- provide adequate documentation of their order to fulfill their needs. Rectifying the church after Mahoney had spoken against honey and Scott Bryant wrote, “we are con- concerns, along with other items such as errors that were made in creating the cur- the church for denying him a “teaching fident that the legal process will ultimately their tax returns, so she can defend herself rent school system should never come at opportunity.” It states that the pair left uphold the values of the first amendment in court. a student’s expense. the church and originally “began publish- right to freedom of religion, freedom of The court denied a temporary restraining There are various solutions that could ing negative and defamatory information,” speech and freedom of the press, all of order requested by the church in October. encourage more people to fill the vacant about the Harvest Bible Chapel on a per- which are essential to safeguarding the val- They returned to court on Thursday, Dec. teaching positions that do not involve sonal website called Blood Stained Ink, ues of the Protestant Reformation and our 1. The case has not moved forward and is handing out jobs to unqualified candi- which has now been made private, before common life.” projected to continue into January. dates. In fact, data from the Learning The Elephant’s Debt was launched in 2012. Julie Roys is an independent evangelical Policy Institute suggests that teachers who enter the profession inadequately prepared are two and a half times more ONCE AGAIN, WE ARE likely to leave during their first year, mak- Alliance for the Chil- Alternative ing any progress made by hiring unqual- BEING CHEATED ified teachers incredibly temporary. The dren gift drive deficit is, in part, caused by teachers leav- Joseph Timothy Glos high school CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2 ing due to salary issues. A chart created Staff Writer by axios shows that in 39 states, teachers Alliance for the Children is a nonprofit or- relocation suffer. The adults who decided to teach and were given lower salaries in 2016 than in ganization that has partnered with Neuqua Bhoomi Sharma consequently have shaped our lives in and out of the classroom suffer. The process 2010, once adjusted for inflation. Though Valley for 18 years to fund a holiday drive. Staff Writer people may want to teach, they also need It centers around assisting children in the of fixing the teacher deficit will not be easy, a sustainable income. School budgeting is Appalachian Mountain region, one of the The Indian Plains Alternative High School but the current methodology is far from ac- a complicated process that varies by state, poorest sections of the United States. The in Aurora is located in the oldest building in ceptable. We deserve better. but teachers, 94 percent of whom spend organization has aided over 3,000 children the district. The building has existed since their own money on classroom supplies by providings new clothes and toys, letting 1929, with extensions and improvements according to the US Department of Ed- many children receive gifts when their fam- added in 1946 and 1964. Currently, the Ballot order set for ucation, should not have to be concerned ilies might have been otherwise unable to building’s infrastructure is outdated. One about their salaries. Stop giving large cor- purchase them. frequently noticed issue is the water system. Naperville’s munici- porations tax breaks. Teachers should not Interested participants can take a tag for While the water is safe, the smell and flavor be punished just because they decided a child in need. These tags list the name, is said to be “off-putting”, according to the pal election Chicago Tribune. to work in the public sector. Redistrib- age and gender of a child as well as items Hannah Denaer ute some of the money allocated to the they desire. Items bought for Alliance of The school board has decided that the military. There is money already available the Children are turned in from Nov. 29 Indian Plains building will be demolished Staff Writer or sold, and the students will be moved to within the government budget if we pri- to Dec. 21. Gifts must be unwrapped and On Dec. 4, an assemblage of candidates oritize education. brand new. a building in Wheatland on the corner of Route 59 and 103rd Street. for the 2019 municipal election gathered in Educators are some of the most valu- Alliance for the Children is also support- the City Council Chambers of the Naper- able people in our society; they should ed by corporate organizations such as Mo- The building requires alterations to make it suitable for use as a school. The district ville Municipal Center to watch the lottery be treated as such. Pay them more. Ed- torola and Walmart.. that set the ballot order of the mayor and ucation drastically changes the future of The organization has contributed to hopes to have the renovations complete for the 2019-2020 school year. city council candidates. The drawing for our nation and those within it. When the change in the communities they support. city council was first, with the drawing for quality of teachers decreases because we According to Tim Prater principal of Hur- mayor following it. Each candidate received are driving qualified educators away and ley Elementary School test scores increased a number and the order in which those consequently have to mass hire people from 35 to 95 percent and attendance by numbers were called out established the or- who have no business being in the class- eight percent since the non-profit began der of the candidate’s names on the ballot. room, our nation’s children suffer. We their program. The lottery determined the ballot order of December 2018 News 3 Ballot order set for Naperville’s municipal election CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2 candidates who simultaneously filed peti- Petitions that were filed after 8 a.m on Nov. Election Day will serve a four-year term, tions to run in the election. Petitions were 19 or before 4 p.m. on Nov. 26 were put on but, currently, only the ballot order is con- considered to be filed simultaneously if the ballot in the order they were obtained. cretely determined. they were filed before 8 a.m. on Nov. 19 In regard to City Council, the four candi- or between 4 p.m. and 5 p.m. on Nov. 26. dates with the greatest amount of votes on Modified Babies: A look into the changing world of genetics ECO ECHO Summer Moore children. Jiankui explains he decided to interview with The Week, stating , “Great -Ella Estopare- Staff Writer perform the surgery because the father was things can be done with the power of tech- Shark Finning: a cruel new In November of 2018, two twin babies HIV positive and Jiankui wanted to prevent nology — and there are things you would named Lulu and Nana were born in Chi- further transmission of the disease. not want done. Most of the public does industry na with genetically modified genes. Scien- This procedure resulted in one of the in- not appreciate what is coming.” tist He Jiankui, who was in charge of this fants possessing two copies of the altered Conversely, others such as David R. Liu, project, was the first to successfully modify gene while the other only had one. This a professor of chemistry and chemical bi- a This holiday season, we consumers are the genes of a zygote to create a resistance meant the baby with only one copy could ology at Harvard University, stated in an scrambling for the best deals on holi- to human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). still be susceptible to HIV. According to interview published in Harvard’s newspa- days gifts. Black Friday, Small Business Jiankui performed the modification “sur- AP News, however, limited research does per, The Crimson, that he finds “both the Saturday and Cyber Monday offer cus- gery” with a tool called CRISPR-cas9. This suggest that the one successful alteration ethical and scientific side of [the proce- tomers deals that are worth raiding the tool assesses the genetic code to alter a hu- could potentially slow the virus down. dure] to be pretty appalling.” Another critic busiest stores and camping out in front mans genes. Although this procedure was to human genetic modification, Nebraska of Walmart , but what consumers fail to illegal in China, Jiankui performed the op- James D’Anza, a genetics teacher at congressman Jeff Fortenberry called it “a think about is the part that comes after eration. Neuqua Valley High School believes that, macabre form of eugenic human cloning,” buying all their gifts: wrapping them. Jiankui explained his procedure in an in- although there are many concerns about at a hearing in 2014. In the United States alone, consumers are terview with NPR, stating, “When Lulu genetic modification of humans, including Regardless of other’s opinions, He Jiankui responsible for using four million tons of and Nana was just a single cell, this surgery concerns of “playing God” and not know- stands by his work and hopes to elaborate wood to make wrapping paper for holi- removed the doorway through which HIV ing when to stop modification, Jiankui’s on his research and attempt this again, an- day gifts. It’s important to acknowledge enters to affect people.” HIV is a trans- procedure is a “great advancement for ge- nouncing on Nov. 29 that another woman the waste that comes during the winter ferable virus,, meaning, if a father is HIV netics.” The co-inventor of CRISPR, Jen- is pregnant with a fetus that will potentially holiday season. Much of the wrapping positive he could transfer this virus to his nifer Doudna, defended her device in an be modified. paper Americans use is non-recyclable. Decorative wrapping paper that’s embel- lished with glitter and other sequins can clog up the machines at recycling plants. IPCC releases new climate change report The problem of holiday wrapping waste Abigail McArthur-Self production has become so prominent that China has refused to take our hol- News Editor lion people from sea level based flooding, He believes students should “pay attention iday waste over the past years. Often, The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate limit the rate of extinction for at-risk an- to what oil companies don’t want [them] to the wrapping paper and ribbons that go Change (IPCC), an international collection imal populations and minimize extreme know,” because the companies have a fi- to recycling plants aren’t sorted and are of scientists dedicated to researching and weather events. nancial interest in which laws about carbon troublesome to put through recycling reporting the state of the planet’s climate They believe that, through limiting emissions do and do not get passed. machines. With China now limiting the and the possible causes and solutions of carbon emissions, countries can help curb The report is available to the pub- waste it takes from the U.S.,some citizens issues present, released a new report in Oc- temperature rise within the 21st century to lic on the IPCC’s webpage along with press have tried to find other ways to dispose tober of 2018. 1.5 degrees Celsius. At this time, however, releases and a summary for policymakers, of wrapping paper: burning it. This The report largely focuses on the there is no projection for halting it entirely. directed at the world’s political leaders. “solution” is a harmful one, especially to changes that the planet will see if the over- The IPCC’s report is not focused As of yet, the United States has those who burn wrapping paper made all temperature rises by 2 degrees Celsius on if there will be change -- of that the planned no change in response to this new in China. In China, there are little to no versus 1.5 degrees Celsius. An increase in scientists seem confident -- but how much study, which has so far been disregarded by regulations that control what products temperature extremes, species extinction, change the planet will see and how it can President Donald Trump. go into making wrapping paper. Burning sea level and severe weather events, such best be limited and adapted to. Experts outside of the panel have this wrapping paper releases potential as hurricanes, is predicted at both tempera- According to Paul Vandersteen, reviewed the report and seem to be in toxins that could be inhaled. Instead of tures. an AP environmental science teacher at agreement with it. Eleven scientists unaffil- finding a better way to dispose of wrap- However, according to the IPCC, mitigat- Neuqua, this report is in keeping with pre- iated with the report have given testimony ping materials, we should be using more ing the rise of global climate change by half vious studies done on climate change. in its favor to the Science Media Centre, an environmentally conscious material in a degree would limit the effects of climate He says the most important thing independent British organization of scien- the first place. change, would spare an estimated 10 mil- students can do is stay informed and vote. tists. There are alternative forms of wrapping papers that are less harmful to the en- vironment. One ton of recycled paper can save 17 trees. Using wrapping paper Indiana Man and his Range Rover win in made of cardboard, fabric or even recy- cled paper is a great way to reduce defor- U.S Supreme Court ruling estation. Maggie Mokrzycki This holiday season, we need to be con- $42,000, was worth over 150 times as much scientious of the spirit of giving. Giving Staff Writer as the heroin he sold. Timbs took the case Eventually, the case landed in the U.S. su- In late November, the United States Su- back to the environment is one way to to the Indiana supreme court where he was preme court, and the justices ruled in favor make sure that you’re not just giving to preme Court ruled on a case regarding ex- ruled against.The Eighth Amendment of of the plaintiff. They deemed that the for- cessive fining due to Indiana’s repossession your loved ones, but also the rest of the the U.S. Constitution includes a clause on feiture was disproportionate to the crime world. If you’re looking for places to find of a man’s Range Rover following a minor excessive fining, however there is nothing committed. The court argued that the drug charge. colorful and environmentally healthy specifically cited as to how it applies to indi- Eighth Amendment of the U.S. Constitu- wrapping paper, visit Wrappily.com. Tyson Timbs, the plaintiff in the case, sold vidual states. The Indiana court argued that tion does apply to state statutes and that it $250 worth of heroin to an undercover po- the clause in the federal constitution does was unconstitutional for the state of Indi- lice officer. He was then forced to forfeit not specifically apply to states and because ana to force forfeiture of the vehicle on a his vehicle to the state. The car, valued at of this, the forfeiture was justifiable. minor charge. Tear gas used at the United States-Mexico border Joseph Timothy Glos the border. mistaking it for deadlier form of chemical Union’s human rights program, claim that Staff Writer Tear gas, also known as mace or lacrimator, weapon such as sarin gas and responding this use of tear gas was an unnecessary use In November, the United States Border is designed to cause irritation of the mu- in kind. Tear gas can be stored for the pur- of force against vulnerable refugees, in- Patrol had one of its first encounters with cous membranes causing coughing, tearing pose of riot control and as a tool to train cluding children. the migrant caravan from Honduras, when of the eyes and burning in the eyes, nose military personnel, but these stores must be Defenders of its use such as Rodney Scott, United State border officials launched mul- and throat. It is a nonlethal agent main- declared to the international community. a border control chief, say that the border tiple canisters of Tear Gas into the Mex- ly used to minimize harm to civilians and Although the United States’ launching of control officers were facing “a direct and ican border regions. The gas was utilized de-escalate violent situations. Tear gas can tear gas into Mexico could be perceived as a immediate threat” and that it was necessary in an effort to prevent the caravan from also cause death; however, this is rare and threat to Mexico’s sovereignty, it is unlikely in order to prevent harm from coming to crossing the border. Tear gas is a chem- only results from long-term exposure in that Mexico will pursue charges against the United States personnel. ical compound commonly used as a riot unventilated areas. United States of America in an internation- The migrants who were tear gassed have suppressant. Because the gas is banned in Tear gas has been banned in use in warfare al court of law. created a camp not far from the United warfare, its use has led to many questions since 1993 under the Chemical Weapons The use of tear gas also raises ethical ques- States border. It is unclear how the caravan on the legality and morality of the United Convention. This ban is primarily in effect tions. Critics such as Jamal Dakwar , the of 5,000 will be processed into the country. States’ decision to use the compound on to prevent those exposed to tear gas from director of the American Civil Liberties December 2018 4 Sports Rolling into a new season of bowling Summer Moore ers] against their six and then drop the a perfect game.” She hopes to continue -Madeline James- Staff Writer lowest score.” This prevents the team bowling in college. member on the lowest end of the aver- Lhotak explains, “[bowling is] one of The Neuqua Valley High School girls’ those sports that you can start ... fresh- bowling team is hoping to strike out age from drastically lowering a score. She DOWN TO also says that the team chemistry is excel- man year and get a scholarship to go bowl their opponents in this upcoming sea- in college and not know how to bowl son. Katherine Lhotak,who has been the lent. She explains that all of the girls are “inclusive” and if there is someone being in the beginning.” Unlike other sports, THE WIRE bowling coach for 10 ten years, explains bowling does not require many years of that for the girls practices, they will nor- quiet the team will try their best to get them out of their shell. prior knowledge and practice before play- mally just work on what they need to. So, ers are able to get a scholarship. Bowling if a player is struggling to perfect a cer- Chloe Long, a senior at Neuqua Val- Changing ley High School, explained that the “su- scholarships can range from a $100 to tain technique during a meet, then that $6,000. Lhotak shared that some Neuqua individual will work on that technique per chill” and inclusive environment of the bowling team is what drew her in to Valley bowling team members have de- the during practice -- anything Lhotak no- cided to continue their bowling careers at tices needs improvement. They practice be a Neuqua Valley bowler. She started bowling in sixth grade, and her sister con- colleges such as University of Pikesville, at Parkside Lanes in Aurora IL. University of Central Missouri, Universi- Lhotak shares how bowling meets vinced her to try it out in high school. Conversation Long stated, “The highest I have bowled ty of Wisconsin-Whitewater and Arkan- work, explaining that “during dual meets sas State. Inclusivity against other teams, we roll our six [play- was a 279, which is one strike away from On and Off the Court

Early in December, Kent State Uni- versity made headlines for signing Kalin Bennett as a recruit for their men’s bas- ketball team.‘Tis the season for college athletic commitments, but his in partic- ular stood out -- and for good reason. By signing Bennett, Kent State became the first NCAA Division 1 school to sign an athlete with autism. Bennett currently attends a prep school in Little Rock, Ar- kansas and will be joining the team as a freshman next year. When Bennett was interviewed by NBC about his decision, he, like all other The Neuqua Valley High School Girls Bowling Team practices at Parkside Lanes, in Aurora IL. They practice their techniques everyday after school. Photo star athletes, talked about his love for the by Summer Moore game he plays, and how much it made an impact on him growing up. But basket- ball was more than just a sport for him. It allowed him to have important social Aerial silks: an underrated artform connections and to have a normalized Anika Haridas is “the Midwest’s premier pole and aerial ter this, they condition on the silks then experience playing as a team member. Staff Writer fitness studio.” Tease Fitness advertises move on to the fun part, which is working Bennett has overcome many adversi- their classes as a form of movement that on and perfecting new tricks. ties to get to the point where he is now. Aerial silk performers have been in the will reshape self-image while fostering Because aerial silks have just started As a toddler, he was nonverbal and was limelight in recent years because of the strong, powerful relationships with the becoming prevalent as an art form, it is told that he might never have some of aesthetically pleasing, unique features community and environment. easy for it to be overlooked in a school the abilities that many take for granted: that the art form has to offer. This type Rios explains how aerial silks is environment that mainly focuses on speaking and communicating. Basketball of art requires a performer to hang from not as simple as people perceive it to be, more traditional sports and activities. served as a major opportunity for him to a length of fabric while doing aerial ac- saying, “aerial silks takes a lot of flexibility Performances are showcased every oth- be able to see past his challenges and de- robatics. Two students here at Neuqua and stamina,” skills that can be improved er season, where students get to select a velop a new skill set, which served him Valley High School that participate in by practicing and attending each lesson. composition and create a routine. Rios on and off the court. aerial silks are juniors Cristina Rios, who The students are taught by one of the describes how these performances makes Bennett’s case is a prime example of has been performing for about two years, 14 instructors at Tease Fitness and their all the hard work she and McGill endure how America is making greater strides and Cassidy McGill, who has been per- practices consist of a lot of flips, spins worth while, saying, “being in the air for in inclusivity. More than ever before, it forming for almost one. and poses. The foundation of their prac- that long can get pretty difficult, but it’s is becoming a spotlight issue and is af- Together, they express themselves and tice consist of yoga conditioning for a lot of fun because everything pays off fecting many Americans positively. Di- their creativity at Tease Fitness, a com- about 20 minutes on the floor because of and you get to show friends and family vision one athletics, the highest level for pany founded by Kristin McNabb that the flexibility the art form calls for. Af- something pretty unique”. a college athlete, are no longer reserved for one type of athlete. Bennett’s signing, while highly publicized, was a normal ex- perience for any college-bound athlete, Sprinting towards a brighter future and he will be on the court next year, sophomore year, Robinson faced prob- son started.” In the fall of next year, Rob- with the same uniform, coaching staff Dana Balmas lems meeting the times she wanted and inson will take her place at the University and expectations as his teammates. Staff Writer started to struggle with confidence as of Texas in Austin. She leaves behind her Sports is one of the most universal hu- well. She told herself “to be patient” and, message for younger athletes: “Be true to man experiences, and it bonds us togeth- Growing up as a strong gymnast, now, going into her senior year, she has who you are and what you want to do. er like few other things in this world can. MiKenna Robinson did not see herself the strategies to succeed in the future. Work hard for it and surround yourself Sharing the same passion, joy and emo- going to college for track until later in Now, in preparation for big meets, Rob- with people who care about you. Be true tions with others, even if for a brief mo- her teenage life. Recently Robinson, a inson makes sure to do a few key things. to your mind.” ment, is so important. They also allow senior at Neuqua Valley High School, The night before a race, Robinson stays us to see past our differences and show committed to the University of Texas home, rolls out her muscles and eats a that there is a lot more in common than at Austin to compete in their Division 1 well-balanced meal. At night time, she different between us. Yes, Kalin Bennett track program. Although track is a team also visualizes the race for the day ahead. is an autistic male. Yes, he may be faced sport, Robinson’s amazing times are her She elaborates on the rest of her routine with different challenges than some of very own to carry. She did gymnastics by stating, “in the morning, I eat a carb- his teammates. But he, above all else, is for seven years in addition to winning heavy breakfast because I know I will be going to be playing at the highest level numerous titles for her track career. Rob- burning a lot of energy, and most im- of his athletic career (so far) starting next inson explains what an integral role her portantly, I stay calm. On the start line, I year. parents play in her success. She describes tell myself I’m here for a reason and that Isn’t the conversation about inclusivity how “they are [her] immediate support I am qualified for this. It takes a lot of within athletics starting to make waves? system” and even calls both of them preparation and positivity. It is 20 percent The answer is starting to become more her “cheerleaders.” They helped her take physical and 80 percent mental.” After and more clear from cases like Bennett’s home third in the 800 in the Amatuer doing all of these things, she tries her best -- yes. Athletic Union (AAU) Junior Olympic for the results that she wants. games, the outdoor DVC champ status, As a newly committed athlete to UT, different sectional titles for the 200 and she says she is blessed to see everything Madeline James is The Echo sports editor, 800, and state recognitions in the 800 at pay off. Getting accepted was like “a MiKenna Robinson posing for her UT promtioal and is an avid “30 for 30” watcher. photos. She is flashing the traditional longhorn She hopes to one day be as opinionated as third place and 9th in the 200. kind-of an exhale because it was a really Stephen A. Smith. She is not related to the There was a time in her life, though, stressful process and a big relief to know symbol, the university’s mascot, with her left basketball player with the same last name. where track became a struggle. In her where to go before high school track sea- hand. Photo courtesy of MiKenna

December 2018 5 Student Life Weed legalization: when the smoke and stigmas clear

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 nificantly increased their use after it was legalized. Regardless of its medicinal ef- fects as a pain reliever, marijuana can have Emma Wightkin detrimental effects on human brains, es- Student Life Editor pecially developing ones. As stated by the American Psychology Association, According to the American Civil Lib- smoking marijuana can temporarily im- erties Union, people of color are almost pede a young adult’s attention, memory, four times more likely to be arrested for and learning and decision making abili- marijuana possession than a white per- ties. The frequent use of marijuana stunts son. Decriminalization of weed, some- the cellular activity in the endocannabi- thing many states have already put into noid system, which is not fully developed place, has prevented arrests over pos- in adolescent brains. The system is very session of small amounts, but it is not important for controlling emotions and enough. Although this problem is largely responses to stress and can be hindered stimulated by racial biases and the legal- by consistent marijuana use. ization of marijuana will not change the On one hand there are many positive ignorant ideals that certain police officers impacts that legalizing marijuana can have possess, it could contribute to eliminating on America economically and socially, the unfair arrest of people of color for a but on the other hand it is difficult to dis- crime that a white citizen is more likely to regard the negative ramifications that the get away with. substance has on people's health. Howev- Additionally, states that legalize mari- er, the well-being of individuals is large- juana will save millions on law enforce- ly their responsibility; therefore, if they ment costs currently wasted on punishing decide they are not willing to potentially crimes such as possession of marijuana. harm their mind and body, they can sim- The American Civil Liberties Union es- ply choose not to smoke marijuana. The Frey and Colletti pioneering timates that it costs the U.S. around 3.6 cloudy details surrounding the effects of billion dollars a year just to enforce mari- marijuana also cause fear in many that is new wave of obscure comedy juana laws. Recreational use of marijuana often unsupported and unwarranted and letti and Frey’s fame has helped make the could also end up generating more mon- should not deter the public from the ir- Maggie Mokrzycki ey for a state through sales taxes on the refutable fact that marijuana can improve two the next big thing in obscure internet substance. According to Forbes, many many factors in American society. Staff Writer comedy. people in Illinois are in favor of legalizing It should be a personal right to use any The old fad of stand-up comedy and In 2016 when Vine died out, everyone scripted skits, such as those seen on “Sat- marijuana because the tax on recreational type of recreational substance a person thought comedy itself would be lost for- marijuana could generate up 700 million chooses, as long as it is not proven to be urday Night Live,” are being fazed out ever. The thoguht of this saddened amny. among the new generation and random dollars a year for the state. deadly and does not cause harm to others, Those six second videos consumed our Despite these positive impacts there because our bodies and what we decide humor like Casey Frey’s is replacing it. lives and molded our humor. After what It is hard to tell what exactly makes this are still some negative consequences of to put in them, within reason, shouldn't felt like an eternity without something to legalization that need to be considered, be commanded by a higher government new wave of comedy so appealing, but feed our short attention spans and ex- perhaps it is the same reason people are especially for teenagers. Although all power. American ideals are based on the tremely specific taste for absurd comedy, states that have approved recreational principles of freedom and liberty, and in also so attracted to things like outra- talk of Vine2 started. We waited for it to geous internet trends and idiotic Sound- marijuana have required citizens to be at terms of drug use, we should step back pop up on the app store, but as of now least 21 to use and purchase marijuana, and consider the extent to which the gov- Cloud rappers. As a society, we seem to we are left in anticipation. have gotten bored of the run-of-the-mill teens have still been able to gain access to ernment should be allowed restrict it. If Soon after the loss of the iconic com- the substance. According to Psychology government powers are able to dictate ideals we have accepted in the past and edy platform, a man named Casey Frey, we are now seeking out new interesting Today, a study in Oregon, led by Julie C. what citizens are able to put into their who began on the original vine app, start- Rusby of the Oregon Research Institute, bodies, how much more are we willing to forms of amusement. In a world that is ed to appear on every twitter feed. Frey’s so negative and judgemental, we can all revealed that underaged high school stu- let them control? humor was outrageous and many found dents who chose to smoke marijuana sig- agree that people like Casey Frey and his it hard to decipher if was being serious ridiculous comedy aid in the distraction or not, especially in his popular videos from all the negativity on the internet. performing extremely comical dance rou- All together, the rise in approval of non- tines without even cracking a smile. How- sensical entertainment has created signif- ever, he still has become the next biggest icant contributions to the normalization craze and, “Five bars five seconds”, has of unique individuality among everyone. been heard throughout the school courte- sy of Frey's viral video of him manically reciting the phrase. The way he can mys-

“Five bars five seconds”

teriously pop his shoulder muscles out of his back while delivering a bizarre mono- logue has somehow become the most en- tertaining comedy of the year. Additionally, Frey and his friend Nick Colletti have formed a dynamic comedy duo, collaborating in short videos togeth- er and even creating a podcast, with mu- tual friend Evan Breen, called “Friend- ship is Kind.” Coletti, who surpassed Frey in popularity on vine coining the viral phrase “oh suh dude,” creates skits and videos on his Instagram with an average of 400,00 views per video. However, the tables have turned and Frey is the next big thing, catching the eye of celebrities such as Kodak Black. Usually, internet stars and rappers are on two completely different wavelengths, but someone as large as Kodak, with over 26 million Spo- tify listeners annually, recognizing him One of Casey Frey’s classic jokes is his odd The question about marijuana being legalized has been held in the air for many years. The negative con- stature and mismatching facial expression. His In- notation surrounding the substance leads many to believe that legalization will have more detrimental has proven Frey’s significance in current stagram is his main source for his comedic posts. than favorable repercussions. It is important to always consider both sides. Graphic by Dana Balmas. popular culture. The increase in both Col- Photo courtesy of Casey Freys Instagram. December 2018 6 Feature Music World News

Camila Cabello- Camila Fall Out Boy- Mania ~Somalia passed its first Migos- Culture II rape law ~Rihanna announced ambassador Rich Brian- Amen ~Fake missile alert in of Barbados Calum Scott- Only Human Hawaii ~Elon Musk security fraud case Logic- Bobby tarantino II ~Larry Nassar incident ~India legalized gay sex Hayley Kiyoko- Expectations ~Olympic winter games in ~Trump and Kim Jong Un met Cardi B- Invasion of Privacy ~"Time's Up" announcement Kali Uchis- Isolation Korea ~Facebook leak ~Canada legelized weed J.Cole- KOD Highest OD rate ever Arctic Monkeys- Tranquility Base ~“March of Our Lives” in Hotel & casino DC Charlie Puth: Voicenotes

BTS- Love Yourself: Tear Shawn Mendes- Shawn Mendes Kanye West- Ye Jorja Smith- Lost & Found 5 Seconds of Summer- Youngblood The Carters- Everything is love Panic! At The Disco- Pray for the Wicked 88rising- Head in the Clouds Mac Miller- Swimming Travis Scott- Astroworld Ariana Grande- Sweetener Troye Sivan-Bloom A Year in Review Brockhampton- Iridescence Lady Gaga/Bradley Cooper- A Star is Born Joji- Ballads 1 H.E.R- I Used to Know Her: Part 2 2018 gave us some of our greatest hits, top movies, many The 1975- A Brief Inquiry into Online memorable moments, and lots to remember. Here's to Relationships Alessia Cara- The Pains of Growing everything from 2018. Kodak Black- Dying to Live Zayn- Icarus Falls 2018 Deaths Stephen Hawking Barbara Bush Avicii Kate Spade Anthony Bourdain Joe Jackson Aretha Franklin FranciscoGio Miranda:Grace Levine: Lin-Manuel Adam Levine Miranda & Behati & Vanessa Prinsloo Nadal Luke Richard: Eddie Redmayne & Hannah Bagshawe John McCain Oscar Brent Berkus: Nate Berkus & Jeremiah Brent Mac Miller Prince Louis: Prince William & Kate Middleton Stan Lee Miles Theodore Stephens: Chrissy Teigen & John Legend Celebrity babies and Stephen Hillenburg SebastianSantiago Piers Williams:Enrique Baston: America Eva Ferrera Longoria & Ryan & Jose Piers Baston Williams George HW Bush their famous parents

December 2018 Feature 7 World News Weddings ~Rihanna announced ambassador of Barbados John Stamos & Caitlin ~Elon Musk security fraud case Mchugh ~India legalized gay sex Kat Von D & Leafar Seyer Kit Harington & Rose Leslie ~Trump and Kim Jong Un met Isaiah Mustafa & Lisa ~"Time's Up" announcement Mitchell Matthew Lewis & Angela ~Canada legelized weed Nick Jonas & Priyanka Chopra Highest OD rate ever Jones Mandy Moore & Taylor Gold- Tori Kelly & André Murillo smith Prince Harry & Meghan Justin Bieber & Hailey Bald- Markle win Karlie Kloss & Joshua Kushner Princess Eugenie & Jack Brooksbank Stephanie Beatriz & Brad Hoss Amy Schumer & Chris Fischer

A Year in Review

2018 gave us some of our greatest hits, top movies, many Movies Black Panther memorable moments, and lots to remember. Here's to Won t You Be My Neighbor everything from 2018. ' Hereditary Incredibles 2 Crazy Rich Asians A Star is Born 2018 Green Book Chicago West: Kim Kardashian & Kanye West Stormi Jenner: Kylie Jenner & Travis Scott True Thompson:Ivey Joan: KhloeJamie KardashianLynn Spears & & Tristan Jamie WatsonThompson Tiana Gia Dwayne: "The Rock" Johnson & Lauren Hashian Dana Isaiah Thomas Jr.: Jordin Sparks & Dana Isaiah Marvel Jane Wentz: Meagan Camper & Pete Wentz Vida AmberDelilah-Rae Betty Bublée: Monk: Michael Craig Buble Monk & & Luisana Cher Lloyd Lopilato Rani Rose Hudson Fujikawa: Kate Hudson & Danny Fujikawa Kulture Kiari Cephus: Cardi B & Offset

Kulture Kiari Cephus: Cardi B & Offset Celebrity babies and their famous parents

2018 December 8 Entertainment “Thank u, next”: the right reaction to breakups Maggie Mokrzycki right direction. The lyric “one taught me and destroy a relationship that want craft- Staff Writer love, one taught me patience and one ed over so many months. taught me pain” is her way of saying not Trying to grow instead of being stuck This November, Ariana Grande an- every relationship can be easy, but if pos- with hatred can help people get over nounced a new single after her breakup sible, it is good to reflect on what you tough breakups. Moving on and saying with comedian, Pete Davidson. They have gained from the experience. When “thank you, next” is the mature thing had been engaged since announcing the Grande later mentions that she taught to do. Hopefully, Grande’s influence on relationship last year. The song became herself “love,” “pain” and “patience,” will help people get over breakups in a an instant girl power breakup song. Most she shows that although breakups can be healthy manner.. Many reacted to this breakup songs are about revenge like painful, the independence that happens song positively, and it became an instant Carrie Underwood's “Before He Cheats” as a result can inspire someone to work hit. Whether it was a your choice to end and Kelly Clarkson “Since You’ve Been on their own self-image and confidence.. a relationship or the other person’s, it’s Gone,”. which is a dated way of handling With the death of rapper Malcolm Miller a smarter choice to appreciate what you bad breaks and give a negative message who Grande dated for 2 years, she had to gained from that person, rather than de- to listeners. Instead, Grande mentions shown resilience, but that does not mean ciding your time was wasted. Not taking what she learned from these men and you have to move on quickly. It’s easy to breakups personally is Grande’s overall thanks them for helping guide her in the get caught up in the heat of the moment Ariana’s single was first announced by her tweeting suggestion; if something is not working, the words “Thank you, Next”. Photo courtesy of Amazon Music it’s better to leave than stay. Wish away your winter woes with music feel in your bones. According to Runthet- stations play just as much as the next the the “Frozen” soundtrack weaves together Arti Rathore rap.com, it was started by “southern rap- person, I really do. But that doesn’t mean the winter weather with the summer love Staff Writer pers such as Waka Flocka Flame or Gucci that the classics can’t warm my heart. that we all have. It gets us in the mood Mane.” Radio stations have picked up on Hearing Bublé sing “Baby It’s Cold Out- for winter while paying homage to our Winter blues have started to creep in this new genre and incorporated it into side” or having Sinatra’s various Christ- beloved summer weather. It doesn’t hurt and despite the approaching break and their holiday sets byplaying trap remixes mas albums such as “A Jolly Christmas that it’s a fun little Disney song, too. holidays, the weather has caused sever- of classics such as “Baby It’s Cold Out- From Frank Sinatra” blasting through These three genres are the perfect way al to wish for warmer days. Though it is side” and “Carol of The Bells.” Different your home is truly something else. The to stay warm this season. With classics to cold outside, all you need to warm up the DJs have taken it upon themselves to mix warm voices of crooners are perfect to ignite the holiday spirit, trap to combine season is holiday spirit, fuzzy sweaters things up and add a backing track to the put a smile on anyone’s face and heat up those classics with a beat that makes you and music, my personal favorite. Here are songs that makes them perfect for any the winter weather. move and a shameless summer throwback some of my holiday music must-haves to party any time. You can find a remix to The last suggestion on my list is sum- to remind you of the sun despite the early warm up your days. any of the classics and chances are, it’s a mer throwbacks. Christmas is coming,but sunsets, you’ll be able to forget about the To start, Christmas trap. Trap music is a bop! these are essential to chase away your winter weather in no time. The holidays growing genre, new to the music scene. Speaking of classics, they’re just as good winter blues. There is never a bad time to are here and with them comes the chilly The music is known for having loud, and vital for a warm soul. Now, I love the enjoy good songs, even if it’s the wrong weather, but so long as you have music, hard-hitting instrumentals that you can “Carol of The Bells” remix that radio season. Songs like “In the Summer” from I’m sure you’ll be able to stay warm. How Stan Lee’s legacy lives on today Streaming killed Allison Blaszak hardships. One of his characters, Black no longer with us, his creations have left a the radio-stars Staff Writer Panther, represented people of African legacy in the entertainment industry and an impact on their fans that outlives him. Rianna Panergalin Stan Lee assisted in the founding of descent and was made in 1966. This was Entertainment Editor Marvel Comics and the creation of mul- a big move on his part because there was tiple iconic characters. Lee helped form a lot of racial tension around this time. Before the age of streaming, our gen- connections with the audience through People around the nation were thrilled eration and those before had the local ra- his inclusion of soapboxes; a small sec- with this movie having casting people dio blasting as we watched the world go tion where Lee would share his opinions of color to play the main cast, which by. But technology advanced faster than and everyday thoughts with his audience. wouldn’t have happened without Stan you could change the radio channel. The His fans also were able to connect with Lee’s creation. world of free-streaming shook up the ra- his characters who were superhuman, Stan Lee greatly contributed to pop dio community. Hubbard Radio cut 11 but experienced real human things. Peter culture by providing fun movies and car- radio hosts from stations 101.9 FM and Parker, the infamous Spiderman, was a toons. He created well known characters 100.3 FM at the end of November to teenage boy who gained spider like abil- that almost anyone would be able to iden- save money during late night broadcasts. ities, but still worried about his relation- tify. His creations have remained relevant It seems that everything digital is mak- ship with a girl. Iron Man was someone many years after they debuted. Though ing everything old school decline. This who could fly around saving the world, this legends may not be with us anymore, is attributed to “Generation Z, which is but he also struggled with being an al- his legacy will live through his characters projected to account for 40% of all con- coholic. The characters could have been and the diverse creations he brought to sumers in the U.S. by 2020,” according to everyday people without the superhero the world. Variety.com studies,when we look at how abilities, and that is what made his work On Nov. 9, Stan Lee, creator of nu- current generation. Although streaming so easy for audiences to connect. merous Marvel Comics heros, passed has dominated all outlets of entertain- During this time, there was little rep- away at 95 from cardiac arrest with respi- ment, what does this mean for TV/Ra- resentation of minorities, and not many ratory failure. Lee created characters that dio, and are there students in our genera- people did things to change this. Lee was were just like normal people, and was a Stan Lee molded the foundation for creative tion that can possibly save it? comic books. These later formed into the iconic Networks like Spotify and Apple Mu- one of the few who defied this and pro- voice for those who were often left out chartachters that touch the hearts of many. Photo vide character of different ethnicities and of popular culture works. Although he is courtesy of Marvel.com sic, have an average of over 50 million users, all of them being able to stream over 40 million songs. Radio stations like SiriusXM and iHeartRadio have made the Marvel-ous representation of people of color in comic books switch over to digital streaming and even Orion Elrod are Romani people, an incredibly mar- them. When the movie industry tried to made the effort to have apps for the au- dience to stream with as well. Although News Editor ginalized and persecuted group, raised in show the stories of women superheroes, Eastern Europe. The discrimination they they ended up unnecessarily sexualizing these stations don’t allow you to pick and The release of movies like “Black face due to being mutants is supposed to them and forcing them into unneces- choose. Panther,” “Spider-Man Into the Spi- mirror the discrimination they face due sary romantic relationships, like when The songs you listen to, some people der-Verse,” “Wonder Woman” and “Ms. to their ethnicity. The movies erase these they forced Black Widow with the Hulk. enjoy pre-picked songs. Streaming can’t Marvel” signify a long-awaited shift in the important aspects of the characters’ iden- When they tried to transfer a deaf super- provide national and local news updates movie industry. Superhero movies and tities to make the stories more palatable hero to the big screen, they completely between songs not allowing consumers to franchises such as “The Avengers” are to their target audience: able-bodied, het- erased that part of his identity which in reconnect with what’s happening in our often criticized for their lack of diversity. erosexual, cisgender, white men. In doing the comic books provided a large amount world even when we’re busy with other While this criticism of the movie is not so, they are eradicating important repre- of his characterization. They have rou- activities. unwarranted, criticism of the characters sentation for marginalized communities. tinely erased or diminished minority char- When asked, the majority say they listen and series outside of the movie is often These characters were successful and acters and consequently provided flat and to the radio, Junior Madison Young ex- misplaced. important because they raised the voices unrepresentative stories. plains that when the drives, “it’s easier to “The Avengers” movie franchise fea- of minorities and mirrored their stories, With recent movie releases, we have turn on the radio than to dig for music.”. tures the characters Hawkeye, Scarlet showing them that just like their favorite shown that including minority characters Sometimes it’s personal issues, like no ac- Witch and QuickSilver. In the comic superheroes, they too could be empow- will not diminish box office sales. If any- cessibility to an aux cord or not wanting book series, Hawkeye is deaf and other ered. thing, it will increase them. We must con- to waste their data to stream music, mak- characters are often pictured communi- The issue of diversity in mainstream su- tinue the trend of showing characters as ing the radio more convenient. Studies cating with him through American Sign perheroes is not one of proper character they have been written, as real people, not may show that radio consumers are de- Language. Scarlet Witch and QuickSilver creation but instead of how we present cardboard cutouts. clining but there is some hope for radio. December 2018 Profiles 9 Chess club is a club you should check-mate Rianna Panergalin flexible when it comes to of their teammates grad- Entertainment Editor attendance, but they usu- uated, even with small ally “extract [the] competi- awards they treated it as a They placed 10-15 at tive team” from within the big deal, this showing the IHSA state champion- club. According to Gambi- optimism of the club. ship straight over the last no, there are usually about Students interested in 10 years and sixth place 35 to 40 members in the strategic games should test twice over the last four club -- in contrast to the out their skills with the years with 128 teams at 20 to 30 members typical members of chess club. the tournament. “Is this clubs have. But chess club The club accepts all who another athletic team?” is a “fun” way to “ meet are willing to join. “You you may ask. No, it is new people and friends,” don’t have to be good at all actually the Neuqua Val- and they offer a “low- to join”, Younis Nooral- ley chess club. Chess stress environment.”. deen encourages to stu- club accepts all interested Although there is a “big dents who wants to join. members.Their intent is competitive nature”, Ju- He states that a person to have fun and let it be nior Younis Nooraldeen shouldn’t be intimidated casual but provide a more explains about the club, it’s to join because “a lot of intense environment for all in good intention be- the people are encourag- those who seek it. Inter- cause you can see that peo- ing...especially those who ested members can join ple want to do better and try to help out the newer the competitive team that improve. Although last guys”. No experience, no is built into this underrat- year, Nooraldeen states problem -- just try not to ed club. many were a little skepti- be a “stale”-mate. Concentration flooded the faces of one of the chess club teams during a chess tournament at Agro Sponsor Frank Gam- cal about losing some of High School in Summit, Illinois. Left to Right: Vikram Dara, Pranav Addepalli, Younis Nooraldeen, bino says the club is very their games because many Rohit Pissipotti, Abinav Shankar, Neelu Nerella. Photo Courtesy of James Fox. Game On! High School Contestants’ viewpoint of the game

Anika Haridas a sense of community in on the stage. She is known “Game On!”, was a char- and offering an all-around bringing the Neuqua and Staff Writer their daily lives, saying that for her friendly and out- itable event that benefited uplifting experience. The Naperville communities when NCTV17 reached going personality and she all those who participated students got to bond with closer overall. The NCTV17 Naper- out to him, he took advan- is glad that events like this by both giving its prof- people they may have ville broadcasting com- tage of the opportunity to will help her remember its to the senior class gift never talked to otherwise, pany recently hosted the form a greater connection her time in high school as eighth episode of their between the students of one full of fun and unique show “Game On!”. On Neuqua and the citizens experiences. She goes on the NCTV17 website, of Naperville. to state that “going on their mission statement is A variety of students stage and actually playing stated clearly -- to connect from both the junior and with everyone was really their viewers and to cele- senior classes participated fun, and it’s cool because brate the community as a in the event, which bore I’m not going to be able to whole. This is also the goal the tagline of “clash of experience something like of the Naperville game the classes” to attract the this ever again.” show, “Game On!”. The Neuqua and Naperville Senior Jordan Matthews television company started community. Of the stu- says that the game show their debut in 1987, “deliv- dents that participated was a good bonding ex- ering hyper-local television in the event, Junior Asia perience with the seniors coverage of the people, Graham and Senior Jor- he worked with, saying, places and perspectives dan Matthews voiced their ““Game On!” was a pret- that matter to Naperville opinions on the experi- ty fun experience. It was residents.” ence. a little nerve-racking, be- Prior to the events of Graham said that it was ing in front of a TV and the game show, Dr. Rob- nerve-racking at first, -es in front of a live audience, ert McBride, principal pecially since many peo- but it was really cool work- of Neuqua Valley, tells ple would see her on live ing together with the other The cast for the eighth episode of game on consisted of students from the 2019 and 2020 classes. the audience that it is im- TV. Despite this fact, she seniors.” Students in the 2019 class were Aidan Murphy, Matthew Arends, Megan Wu, Avery Higdon, Jordan Matthews, Jaylen Scott, Christine Philip and Brianne Pirkins. Students in the 2020 class were Keilah portant to engage in Na- didn’t let her nervousness The Neuqua ep- Moore, Joey Matusik, Grace Lee, Quinton Lewandowski, Ankit Chhajed, Asia Graham, Luke Selby and perville activities to feel stop her from having fun isode of the game show Taylor O’Malley. Photo by Anika Haridas. From the Library to the broadway stage: Lisa Carlson on livening up the library for the first time Grace Huff The library has tradi- people who run Variety kids that were all filed in Profiles Editor tionally been a place of Show. Carlson said that to the library since it is her study, a place where many when she first got it, she true passion. of us would get yelled at “didn’t know if it was even Carlson said that she for talking above a whis- a real thing.” due to the hopes to get a bachelor’s’ per. Neuqua, on the other fact that it was so new and degree in musical theater hand, has decided to shake for many of us we have and has applied to schools things up a bit and have grown up on the mentali- such as The American live performances by stu- ty to always be quiet when Musical and Dramatic dents in the morning ev- you are in the library. De- Academy in New York ery third Thursday of the spite her suspicion, it was City. Texas State Universi- month in an effort to get real, and she performed ty, and University of Cen- kids pumped up for their “Attention” by Charlie tral Florida. big day ahead. Puth and “Chandelier” by If you are interested in Lisa Carlson, Neuqua Sia on the third Friday of performing in the library, Valley senior was the “pi- October. Carlson said that, feel free to contact Eric lot” to kick off this new since there was little to no Bodwell. It does not just early morning event.She promotion of it, many stu- have to be music-related, was first introduced to the dents were very confused as Carlson says that it is idea of singing in the li- as to why she was singing truly more of an “open- brary earlier this year when with a microphone in the mic style” event, and even she was handed a mysteri- corner of the library. But if you don’t want to per- Lisa Carlson has had a strong passion for singing since she was very young and has performed in ous slip of paper, offering nonetheless she continued form, students will be per- numerous school events including the Variety show and singing the national anthem for the Senior Awards. Carlson used to dream of being a voice for Disney, but now she has her eyes set on going into to let her share her talents to show everyone her tal- forming every third Friday broadway. Photo courtesy of Lisa Carlson. in the library,.from the ents to the more than 60 morning in the library. December 2018 10 Editorial

EDITORS-IN-CHIEF Alya Khan Ramifications of Midwestern Sofia Mayhew values: the conversation around EDITORIAL BOARD hardworkSofia Mayhew anddren the wholesomenessimportance of hard work is portant and satisfying, like relationships Ella Estopare Editor-In-Chief extremely important; it’s an important with others, light hobbies that don’t re- virtue for success and satisfaction. It’s quire hours of mastery and charity work. Grace Huff That 70’s show seems to be a classic the way it’s taught that causes problem. Maybe this is why students are feeling example of the midwestern lifestyle. Many of us were told it was the be-all more and more burnt out; we are encour- Madeline James Quaint, ethical and a little boring, the and end-all, the secret ingredient, the holy aging them to cultivate good grades above Rianna Panergalin show seems to capture what it truly is for grail. Want a good honest life? Roll up any other endeavor. We are romanticizing a teenager growing up in the midwest. your sleeves and work for it. These peo- hard work’s glorious play off, without ac- Emma Wightkin The midwestern upbringing can have ple were right in a sense -- if we want nice knowledging the happiness that can be aspects that are beneficial. Although it things we have to work for them-- but we found elsewhere. We need adults putting can be very boring, it’s also wholesome; shouldn’t tell children that nice things can more emphasis on finding contentedness COPY EDITORS people are kind, and everyone is so neigh- only come from hard work. With a grow- through things other than just hard work. borly. Growing up in this environment ing number of students feeling extremely As Neuqua students and people po- Orion Elrod can shield a person from a lot of oth- stressed from high school, a study per- tentially moving away from the mid- er superficial things, and can grounded formed in NYU’s College of Nursing re- west in the coming years, we’ll be lucky Abigail McArthur-Self a person in a core set of guiding ideals. ports that 49 percent of students feel a to have a good set of morals to keep In the center of all that good great deal of stress on a daily basis. Some us steady, but we’ll have to remem- BUSINESS EDITOR faith and good manners, thought, mid- of the blame can be put on the conver- ber that hard work, although valu- westerners are raised with a huge em- sations we have about hard work. There able, won’t give us everything we need. Paige Smith phasis on hard work. Teaching chil- are other things in life that are equally im- STAFF WRITERS Letters to the editor: Dana Balmas Allison Blaszak Dealing with Gun Violence in Schools Hannah Meger out the school day. This is not the right physical abuse. Will arming our teach- Hannah Denaer way to protect schools around the world. ers truly fix this problem? Especially in Guest Writer Joseph Glos Many teachers are civilians with no the environments of understaffed class- Students shouldn’t go to school formal training with a firearm. Hav- rooms, it’s not a good idea to have any- Anika Haridas wondering whether their math teach- ing a loaded firearm in the hands one with a gun present in the setting. er, the football coach or the science of an untrained civilian is a dan- Arming teachers is also a violation of Maggie Mokrzycki teacher is secretly carrying a gun. gerous scenario waiting to happen. the second amendment in the U.S. Con- Unfortunately, in this day and age, The presence of a firearm dramatical- stitution in The Bill of Rights. It reads “A Summer Moore we need to think about this possibili- ly increases the risk of a gun injury. This well regulated Militia, being necessary to ty. Our world has become something also advertises easy access to a gun. May- the security of a free State, the right of Arti Rathore no one would have ever imagined. be a student with bad intentions will steal the people to keep and bear Arms, shall The topic of gun violence in schools has it; hurting other or even him or herself. not be infringed.” This amendment is be- Bhoomi Sharma become a main focal point in our coun- What if a teacher shot a student on acci- ing violated to the point that citizens will try. According to The Washington Post, dent? Not so long ago a California teach- not be considered free. During the school SUPERVISOR “More than 187,000 students have been er’s gun accidentally went off in class day teachers are in charge; if teachers exposed to gun violence at school since and three students were injured. There have guns students can be presumed Allyson Cagney Columbine in 1999.” The massacre at the are far too many scenarios that result in as being held under a malitian state. Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School accidental death rather than self-defense Although some may believe arming in Parkland, Florida, has shaken the pub- with a firearm present in a school setting. staff members is the solution to the is- OUR MISSION STATEMENT lic more than some previous shootings. While most teachers are very dedicat- sue of gun violence in schools it is not. The Echo is a student-run publication Now trying to solve the issue of protec- ed to their students there are reports There are far too many incidents that can fueled by the dedication of the students tion some believe teachers and staff mem- of abuse from some teachers. This is occur if staff members are armed. A gun that make up the staff to bring credible, bers should be armed with guns through- shown as racial slurs or bias as well as problem cannot be solved by more guns. cogent news tfo Neuqua Valley. Any student is welcome to join our staff of writers, reporters and photographers. Trickle-down economics is garbage A student editorial board is responsible Kevin Sciackitano cut in taxes or regulation just adds some massive federal debt crisis as well. Look for story assignments, story selection, Guest Writer profits on top, but doesn’t significantly it up, the only presidents who have raised and story publication along with the change anything. Another fundamental the national debt comparative to GDP designing of the paper itself. When Americans remember Reagan, flaw is the idea that wealthy people will after WW2 have been Republicans, and Letters to the Editor are accepted they are quick to think of his “suc- use their newfound non-taxed money to Obama (who had to fix the 2008 Reces- only if accompanied by a name and cessful” economic plan, which saved invest in new business ventures that will sion and fight Bush’s deficit-funded wars). the United States from stagflation and grow employment and industry, but this After almost 40 years of fail- signature. Submit them along with any economic failure; however, the chief stories or tips to our email idea is nonsensical. If millionaires and ure, it’s time America wakes up to the accomplishment Reagan was able to billionaires receive a few more million fact that this neoliberal pipe dream isn’t Any material submitted to The Echo achieve turns out to be what’s hurting is subject to editing for content and a year, they’re more likely to save it or working. Income inequality, poverty, food our country the most in the present day. put it into the stock market (which both insecurity, living standards, everything space. Reagan’s chief domestic re- have no effect for the average worker.) is getting worse for the average person form was a complete restructuring of Just look at the 1950s, where the top tax and family. It’s time to look towards the Federal economic policy. Instead of the bracket was over 90%, and the economy proven economic policies of the post- Keynesian, involved government poli- was booming way more than today, this war era, and implement rules that build The Echo wants to hear cies that had started during the days of economic plan is based on falsehoods. the economy from the bottom up rath- from you! FDR, Reagan and his neoliberal coalition Not only does the idea fail in er than the trickle down. Government Submit your letters to the instituted a new economic plan dubbed principle, in practice it is a failure, too. investments in infrastructure, education, Supply-side economics, also called trick- Despite massive GDP growth and wealth and more are what create skilled labor editors to: le-down economics. The basic principle [email protected] creation, the median wage in the US has forces and good economic climates. It’s of this model is that taxes and business not risen more than inflation since the time to wake up from the nightmare, or visit regulations should be reduced: these 1980s when supply-side economics was and have a true Morning in America. laissez-faire rules theoretically make implemented under Reagan (see Bureau neuquamedia.org businesses more prosperous, encourage of Labor Statistics). That means the reg- wealthy people to invest in new com- ular person has not gotten a real raise in panies, and collectively better econom- 30 years. It’s clear that all the new wealth Corrections for the ic outlooks nationally. However, this is going directly to the 1% (you might not October 2018 Issue: CONNECT WITH US: model is terrible for American society. like Bernie Sanders, but he’s not wrong Twitter: @NVHS_Echo Fundamentally, the idea is bro- on this issue.) Also, trickle down econom- - Ponouns such as “Duncan Fox” and “Wes- ken. Businesses don’t fail because they ley” were not capitalized Instagram: @nvhs_echo ics encourages reckless deregulation of all - Whites spaces have been filled are burdened by taxes and regulations. major industries, which has led to many - Graphics were too dark, so graphics are now Website: www.neuquamedia. Obviously they are annoying and too disasters like the Saving and Loans crisis lightened to print brighter much of them is cumbersome, but for all the way up to the Great Recession of - More variety in layout types org most businesses small and large provid- - Line thickness is more consistent 2008. The imbalance of cutting taxes with - Spacing and line thickness are now uniform [email protected] ing a good or service that people want no new revenue streams has led to the Email: to pay for will keep them profitable. Any December 2018 Advertisements 11

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December 2018 12 Focus

Songs expected to blow up in 2019

Vol. 1

Side A Side B

1. CDot Honcho some high profile collabs this year, and her R&B styles ”Honcho, Honcho, Honcho,” the Chicago-based rap- per, is about to blow up with his fast-paced trap will carry her up in 2019. beats and Jordan Smith-esque voice. “Another One” is going to be the ”Mo Bamba” of 2019 -- 7. Joji but less cringey. Filthy Frank made the smooth transition from Youtube to music, and has been gaining popularity with a group of simular artisits called 88Rising. With Joji’s Youtube 2. Lil baby following giving him a good base to jumpastart his pop- His Drake collaboration ”Yes Indeed” put Lil Baby ularity, his music will allow him to expand and reach a on the map in 2018, and his other collaborations with Gunna have kept him there. With the both high larger audience. quality and popularity of his music, it’s a safe bet to say Lil baby will keep rising through 2019. 8. Greta Van Fleet A cross between Led Zeppelin, Rush and The Black Crowes, if this band doesn’t bring 70’s style rock 3. lil Mosey back into the 21th century sound scape, I’m not sure ”Noticed”, along with some other popular songs, made lil Mosey noteable in 2018, and hopefully he anyone will. will prove to all of us in 2019 that he was more then a one hit wonder. 9. Declan Mckenna Declan’s youthful pop alternative sound sounds like 4. Clairo how it feels to drive really fast with your friends at Clairo’s ethereal alternative sound will most likely night. gain a lot of traction next year, considering Billie Eilish’s rise to fame has paved the way for other 10. Flip Demaro pop artists like Clairo with an alternative edge. ”Leave Me Alone” has us all goin nuts last year; hopefully we get more good music from him in 2019. 5. Valee Good beats, good flow. Nothing else needs to be 11. Benny Blanco said. This man will blow up, no doubt about it. Althought he might be a one hit wonder, but I swear everyone will have his Juice WRLD and Brendon Urie 6. Jorja Smith collab ”Roses” on repate over winter break. An English singer-songwriter who has made high profile collabs this year, and her R&B styles will car- ry her up in 2019 ”Roses” on repeat over winter break. Graphic By Sofia Mayhew December 2018