Check out “He Said, She Said”

about driving on page 10!

December 2013Volume XXXIX No. 3Carmelcrossroads@gmail.comCarmel Catholic High School1 Carmel ParkwayMundelein, IL 60060

Crossroads

Front Cover.indd 1 12/2/2013 12:30:57 PM

Mission

One Carmel Parkway Mundelein IL 60060

The Voice of the Students of Carmel Catholic

High School

Editors-in-ChiefDaniella Propati & Martha

Reilly

Managing EditorJulia Metzger

Layout EditorsJoe Longo & Lexi Massarelli

Sports EditorConnie Sapienza

Highlights EditorAlly Sledz

News EditorKyra Struzel & Isabella

Zanzucchi

Online EditorCreighton Budris

Photo EditorAnnie Zidek

Journalists Marie Bartz

Emma KobitterMandi Lasso

Nicole MouzakiotisAbby PaulsonEmma Scheer

Diya VermaClaire Zupec

AdviserHadley Hinshaw

Front Cover Ally Sledz & Claire Zupec

Back CoverJoe Longo

Crossroads is published to inform, educate, and entertain the Carmel Catholic High School community. We urge readers to write letters to the editor concerning matters

important to you.

E-mail: cchs.crossroads.staff@gmail.com

Letters must be signed, but

requests for anonymity may be granted by the Editorial Board.

ContentsNEWS

3 Battle of the Bands Meet Carmel’s bands3 Bricks New addition to the Chapel4Politics spread Learn what each party stands for5 Politics spread 6 Conceal and Carry New law enacted in Illinois

7 iPhone Apple dominates technology8 Homework Too much homework?9 Quotes Carmel is thankful10 He said/she said: driving Better drivers...girls or guys?11 Sheltered and racism Is Carmel too sheltered?

12 Pumpkin SpicePumpkin spice varieties

13 Swing Dance Club Unique new club at Carmel13 Guess who? Teachers of the month

15 Healthy Thanksgiving Foods’ health statistics16 Flu Shots Why to get the vaccine17 Mental Health Be the best you

18 Fall sports wrap-up Summary of fall sports19 Bears vs. Packers Carmel’s fan rivalry19 Bulls Chicago’s basketball team

Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/CCHScrossroads

Follow us on Instagram: CCHScrossroads

VOICE

HIGHLIGHTS

HEALTH/LIFESTYLE

SPORTS

We, the Carmel Catholic Crossroads staff, will aim to provide our student body with current content that is applicable to all readers. Our information will be fair and unprejudiced and will be a clear and concise presentation of what students want and need to read. We will also strive to maintain our Catholic

values in our publications.

Dear readers,Welcome to fall and to this

issue of Crossroads. Be sure

to check out our new feature

“Guess the teacher” and to

tweet us your response. And

don’t miss our suggestions

for a healthier Thanksgiving

on page 15 or ways to keep

calm around this stressful

time of the academic year on

page 17. Happy reading!

Sincerely, Martha Reilly, Editor-in-Chief

content.indd 1 11/22/2013 11:56:27 AM

crossroads news 3

A Lasting Gift

8x8 brick *6 lines *18 characters per line

Isabella Zanzucchi | News Editor

12x12 brick*9 lines*23 characters per line

4x8 brick*3 lines*18 characters per line

A lumni, parents, faculty, and students can buy new additions to the Brandsma

Chapel: bricks. The bricks will be located near Entrance A, the Brandsma Chapel entrance. “We have over 70 bricks purchased and have raised over $8,000 already , “ Dianna Burke, advancement offi cer at Carmel, said. “It will be nice to notice someone's name you may recognize to have a legacy left behind forever,” Burke said. All proceeds for the bricks go to supporting the new Fine and Performing Arts Center, the Information Commons, and the Threshold Capital Campaign, which fi nances Carmel’s new additions. After all the bricks are set and placed, the Carmel community will gather to toast to the new entrance.

Carmel offers opportunity to commemorate loves

Rad times and rockin’ vibesBattle of the Bands kept the crowd on its feet

Annie Zidek | Photo Editor

Reclaim the Streets

“We’re all friends out there playing our music, and it’s

not really about winning. It’s about getting up on stage and playing a stellar show to make

the crowd go nuts.” - Scott Kehres (Reclaim the

Streets)

Wasted Time

Van Buren & Wells“If I could describe the band in three words, I would use eclectic, charismatic, and eureka.” - Ryan Kowalski ” “

New generation, high expectations, setting trends across the nation / Without knowing what we’ve done. / Brand new phones and tablets too, still we can’t fi nd much to do / But I wouldn’t trade a single day away. - lyrics from “Trade Today”

“”

(a. zidek)

Head & Heart

(a. zidek)

Four bands--Wasted Time, Reclaim the Streets, Head & Heart, and Van Buren & Wells--brought everything they had to Battle of the Bands on November 21. The money raised through ticket sales benefi ts the BVM Sisters.

Winner!

3_news_bands.indd 1 11/22/2013 12:10:25 PM

Teens talk politicsCarmel students weigh in on their party leaningsDaniella Propati | Editor-In-ChiefJoe longo | Layout Editor

@ BarackObama: “This holiday season, #GetTalking about new, affordable options for the

uninsured in your family.” With just the click of a button, tweets just like this pop up on Millennials cellphone screens from a sundry of political fi gures. Millennials, people born between the early 1980s to the early 2000s, are the most tech savvy generation the world has seen. They are also defi ned as confi dent, team-oriented, conventional, and a little sheltered. Every year, more and more of these teenagers turn 18, making them eligible to vote. This generation is completely different from those who came before, thus, completely changing the political landscape.

Millennials are all about social media. In fact, this deep obsession with the Internet is often one many reasons attributed to Barack Obama’s success in the 2008 election. Millennials do not typically read the paper or watch the news daily; they simply log onto their various social medias and read about politics in 140 characters. More and more politicians are deciding to pursue these networks to connect with the younger generation in the hopes of attracting their votes.

More than just Millennials, political media as a whole has become very divided. Many media sources have strayed away from unbiased reporting, preferring to cater to their prospective viewers. Democrats tune in to MSNBC, while Republicans prefer FOX. With a myraid of outlets for citizens to receive their news, they naturally choose the sources who agree with their politics. But as people get more of their news from echo chambers--sources that only reaffi rm their political views--the political gap widens.

The news medias are not the only aspect changing the political landscape. In fact, Millennials political views simply seem to lean in a different direction altogether from their parents. Their

“I am a Republican because I’ve been raised to respect

traditional conservative values. I believe in God,

and limited government. All Americans will benefi t from low taxes, and free

enterprise ”

“One of my biggest pet peeves is when people get

into a [politicial] argument, and they don’t know their

facts.”

-Junior Gianna Rizzo

- Senior Matt VanHyfte

interests lie more with the big issues that affect themselves, which makes sense since people consider this generation to be the most self-centered yet. They care about economics, health care, race, and the environment above all else because those are the issues that directly affect them. Many young voters are apathetic toward party politics because they do not identify with those currently in offi ce nor do they see any positive change occurring.

The Millennials are used to being taken care of. Growing up, they received much more attention and help from their parents leaving them less self-reliant than previous generations. As a result, many lean more Liberal because that party offers them more government intervention;

however, the more independent Millennials consider themselves Conservative for the exact opposite reason: they want less government intervention. The more independent of the generation identify themselves as Republicans often because they feel the government has no business involving themselves in their lives.

No matter how Millennials identify themselves one thing is for sure: they are going to be responsible for a great political upheaval. These young voters are taking Washington by storm and are not going to give up until they see the change they believe in. With each and every retweet, this generation is becoming more and more active politically which will become evident at the polls in the next election.

crossroads news4

spread_yo.indd 1 11/22/2013 12:00:15 PM

Health Care: Oppose Affordable Care Act; support individual and private insurance

Health Care : Oppose Affordable Healthcare Act

Health Care :Health Care : Encourage the government to provide healthcare for government to provide healthcare for those who cannot afford it.those who cannot afford it.

Economics: People at the top will create jobs and the wealth will trickle down; encourage free enterprise

Economics: Oppose increase in taxes in any case; otherwise similar views as Republican Party

Economics: A growing, successful middle class improves society; tend to support Welfare and increasing muinimum Wage

Republican Party Tea Party Democratic Party

Believe the government should own and control the means of production.

Socialist

Advocate a society without any exploitation of economic, political, or social classes.

Seek equality and no social hierarchy as well as a very strong central government.

Favors economic freedom, but support some restrictions on personal behaviors such as gay marriage and abortion because they go against traditional values.

Advocate a return to a much more limited government based on the Constitution’s original intentions.

Believe in complete personal freedom from the government.

The spectrum of American political parties

CommunistLiberal

Conservative

Tea Party

Liberatrian

Military: Increase spending; strong national defense

Military: Cuts to miltary spending should be up for discussion; support strong national defense

Military: Support cuts to military spending, support return of troops.

Social Issues: Typically pro-life; anti-gun control. Several years ago, typically anti-gay marriage, but shifting

Social Issues: Staunchly pro-life, anti-gay marriage, anti-gun control

Social Issues: Typically very pro-choice, pro-gay marraige, pro-gun control

crossroadsnews 5

spread_yo.indd 2 11/22/2013 12:00:17 PM

6 crossroads news

Mentioning concealed carry in most settings results in some heated debate. It proves to be

an issue which causes polar opposite reactions in people - either you’re for it or against it. In basic terms, the law allows citizens with the required licensing to bring their concealed weapons out in public. Depending on the state, there are exceptions to where people can bring guns. For example, in Arizona (and most other states), firearms are not allowed in schools, bars, polling places on election days, and federal and state buildings. Proponents of the practice say that law-abiding gun owners should be able to stay safe, not only in their homes but also out in the world. “It’s important for people to be able to protect themselves in any way they see fit,” senior Caleb Klahs said.

There is no federal law regulating CCW (carrying a concealed weapon) laws. However, every state but Illinois has implemented a policy at this point. “Illinois is the only state that doesn’t allow it, thank God,” senior Carli Sacramento said. Sacramento expresses a common fear among opponents of Illinois’ implementation. This holdout is largely because CCW legislation tends to be a conservative viewpoint, and Illinois is one of the most largely liberal states in the US.

Soon, though, that is going to change. Recently, a federal court ruled Illinois’ ban on concealed carry unconstitutional, citing that the Second Amendment extends past the home. Steps have since been taken to bring concealed carry to Illinois. The legislature has written a law similar to other Midwestern states’ policies, and training classes are already

Keep calm:concealed carry is onStudents voice their opinions in the debate about guns

Creighton Budris | Online Editor

It’s important for people to be able to protect themselves in any way they see fit.

-Senior Caleb Klahs

“”

underway in Cook county, among others.

Students’ opinions span the spectrum. Obviously, gun owners seem to support the new law. Others are afraid of the idea of regular people walking around with guns on them. “It’s setting people up to end up using them in a way to hurt others,” Sacramento said. Accidental shootings increase when legally concealed weapons are involved, according to a study in Accident Analysis and Prevention.

“What if they lose it? There are mass shootings everywhere, and that’d just be encouraged, because they have [the gun] on them,” senior Miles Czaplicki said.

But gun owners tend to believe there will be more good than bad as a result of the new policy. “It’s important for [people in] Illinois to accept it and protect themselves, especially for the people in downtown Chicago, the people who are in really bad situations,” Klahs said. “Some of those crimes could be prevented by people who utilize concealed carry.”

No matter their opinion, citizens will

Fast Facts:

Concealed carry is legal in all 50 states, but not in

Washington, D.C.

Someone carrying a gun is 4.5 times more likely to be shot during an assault (American Journal of Public Health, Charles

Branas, PhD).

Judge Richard Posner said the Second Amendment “must be interpreted to include a right to have a concealed gun in public, to have it ready for use, and to

have it for self-defense.”

have to find a way to adjust to the policy. The sight of regular people in public with holstered guns may be a shock to opponents of CCW, but nevertheless they will have to get used to it for the time being.

6_news_conceal&carry.indd 1 11/22/2013 12:11:55 PM

crossroads voice 7

Apple takeoveriPhones and Apple products are leaders in technologyNicole Mouzakiotis|Reporter

Generations of iPhones

iPhone 3

iPhone 4

iPhone 5

iPhone 4

The iPhone 3 is the second generation of iPhones with OS 2.0 software.

First to have a front camera and originally came with iOs4 soft-ware.

iPhone 5 has a sleek design and began with iOs6 operating system.

7_voice_iphone.indd 1 11/22/2013 12:27:53 PM

8 voicecrossroads

Marie Bartz | Reporter

Is getting everything done even possible?

With only 24 hour days, students’ time is torn between school,

friends, family, extracurriculars, and service hours. Many argue that the stress of keeping up with all their assignments outweighs the benefi ts.

“Homework can be a way to assess what students have learned and practice and review what they still need to learn,” history teacher Sharon Smogor said. Most teachers rely heavily on homework to reinforce topics that are introduced in class. But senior Dalton Wright said, “Sometimes I don’t think teachers understand that we have responsibility for other classes too, and when all of the work piles up, it causes a lot of stress.” According to a recent survey, 67.8% of students answered that schoolwork caused the most stress in their lives.

Teenagers have a lot on their

plates already. Senior Kotryna Jukneviciute fi gure skates, participates in plays, and belongs to fi ve honor societies. “I get home pretty late, but I usually stay up until 1:30 a.m. doing homework,” Jukneviciute said. Teachers should know when to draw the line in regard to homework.

While solving math might reinforce concepts, multiple worksheets on commas might waste students’ time. “I don’t mind doing homework that actually prepares me for an upcoming test, but when teachers give homework just to give homework, that’s when I get annoyed,” Wright said.

Staying up until 1:30 a.m. might not be feasible for all high school students. “I’m on the baseball team, and it’s hard to fi nd enough time to get homework done for all of my classes when I have practice and especially when I have games,”

Wright said. This is why most students resort to staying up late in the night to fi nish their work.

Smoger suggests developing good time management skills. “Make a schedule, set priorities, and don’t procrastinate,” Smoger said. Senior Collin Schedler used to have little motivation to do his schoolwork, but he realized that he needed to change his ways. “It can take time off studying when you know a lot of the material already from homework,” Schedler said.

Jukneviciute knows how to balance all that she has going on. “I make sure to never waste my time. I know what needs to get done, and I stay organized,” Jukneviciute said. Whether it’s putting down the phone, making the most of class time, or learning not to procrastinate, homework can get done in the least stressful way possible.

Handling the homework

8_voice_homework.indd 1 11/22/2013 12:13:18 PM

crossroads voice 9

I am thankful

for...Students and faculty reveal

what they are grateful for

Emma Kobitter | Reporter

Mr. Ostap

Thomas McGrailMakenzie Feeney

Veronica Tutaj

9_voice_quotes.indd 1 11/22/2013 12:14:58 PM

crossroads voice10

He said, she said: driving Teens debate over who are better driversAbby Paulson | Reporter

Annie Oakley sings, “anything you can do, I can do better.” The competition between

boys and girls is constant. The debates range from dancing to engineering, and many times, driving. Should boys have to pick up their dates?

Can girls have an interest in cars, too? Why are boys’ cars always so messy? Are girls better drivers than boys? While some may think it is archaic, countless teenage girls still believe it is romantic for a boy to drive them for a date. “I think it’s the gentleman thing to do if a boy drives his date,” junior Caroline Pitzo said. Junior Nick Progar agreed to “It gives us [boys] a sense of pride to be able to drive,” junior Nick Progar said.

Stereotypically, boys are interested in Lamborghinis and Corvettes; although, countless girls appreciate cars, too. “I would love to drive a truck!” Pitzo said. Girls may value how the car looks, while boys enjoy the power and speed. “I really like German and Italian sports

cars like Audis and Ferraris,” Progar said. Teenagers are notorious for having

messy cars, both boys and girls; however, many drivers fi nd it important to keep cars clean. “I fi nd it very important to have a clean car,” senior Jizelle Bacani said. Senior Taylor Noonan fi nds car cleanliness challenging, “I have a really hard time keeping it clean, because I basically live out of my car.” The main debate between drivers is who are better, boys or girls? Boys are often applauded for their good hand-eye coordination from video games, while girls are seen as more cautious. “Boys know how a car responds to wild maneuvers,” Progar said. People also believe better driving varies with different drivers. “I think it really just depends on the person,” Rygiel said.

Cars in the junior parking lot.

15% 45% 24%of teen males never wear their seat belt

of teen females text while driving

of teen males were under the infl uence

during a car crash

source: Insurance Institute for Highway Safety

(a. paulson)

I think it really depends on the person driving.

- Senior Brittany Rygiel

“”

10_voice_he said.indd 1 11/22/2013 12:21:25 PM

crossroads voice 11

I’m not racist, but...Private school students are more likely to be sheltered from diversityAlly Sledz | Highlights Editor

Diya Verma | Reporter

Compared to other schools in Lake County and much of Illinois, Carmel does not have the most

diverse student body. “Oh, it’s just a joke,” has become a refrain uttered by students in regard to racial jokes and stereotyping. To some students, these prejudices and stereotypes may seem like “just a joke,” but in reality, they are offensive and can lead to bigger issues within the Carmel community.

The racial tendencies of the students of Carmel mostly stem from the private school system itself. Private and Catholic schools may have less racially and culturally diverse communities. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the racial and ethnic composition of private schools in 2009 was 74 percent non-Hispanic White, while public schools composition was 58 percent non-Hispanic White.

Senior Cierra Moye said that her public school had much more racial diversity than Carmel. Junior Emma Wagner said she could count the number of non-white students in her classes at Carmel on one hand. Because of the lack of diversity in most private schools, students who attend them all

their lives may not encounter other races and cultures, which could lead to stereotypes at Carmel today. “They [private school students] don’t have a good view of the real world,” Wagner said. “They have a sheltered idea of what the world is like.”

Students may not even realize how offensive the jokes are because they are not sure what ‘being racist’ truly means. “I don’t think kids are necessarily racist, but they make a lot of jokes,” sophomore Annie Poll said. These jokes serve to affi rm ignorant viewpoints and may end up negatively affecting students and the community. “They were never really introduced to other races and cultures, so they don’t know how to act,” Poll said.

Of course, racism is never acceptable, but some students may not understand

the difference between what is acceptable and what is racist. “I don’t think students are aware of what they’re saying,” Wagner said, “I think they know what the jokes are, but I don’t think that they get the seriousness behind them. They think they’re just saying it as a joke, but it actually can turn into prejudiced views.” These “jokes” can lead to more serious racial issues in the Carmel community.

Moye has fi rst hand experience with the racism and prejudices about the African American culture at Carmel. When Moye was a freshman, a group of juniors threw a chocolate milk bottle at her and said that chocolate milk is for black people and then laughed about it.

Poll has also seen racism in Carmel. “A lot of kids make jokes about Hispanics. There’s a lot of landscaper type jokes,” Poll said. Many students see them as harmless jokes, but in the real world, they are viewed as offensive and racist. “People don’t realize what they say. They think it’s a joke, but it’s not,” Moye said. Some students fi nd the racist comments acceptable, but Carmel needs to fi x this racial stigma.

People don’t realize what they say. They think it’s a joke, but it’s not.

-Senior Cierra Moye

“”

11_voice_racism.indd 1 11/22/2013 12:22:51 PM

12 highlightscrossroads

The new side of pumpkin

Kyra Strutzel | News Editor

From lattes to chips, pumpkin has taken over. Pumpkin is one of the richest sources of Vitamin A and antioxidants, benefi cial for improved joint and eye health. “Perhaps more than any other

fl avor, pumpkin evokes the feelings of nostalgia and comfort,” Stan Frankenthaler, executive chef at Dunkin Donuts, said. Check out these new additions to the pumpkin fl avor family.

You know... Now meet...

The fall fl avor returns accompanied by new favorites

Pumpkin spice latte (Starbucks)--Espresso, pumpkin-fl avored syrup and steamed milk. Topped with sweetened whipped cream and pumpkin pie spices.

Pumpkin Bagel (Einstein Bros. Bagels)--warmly spiced pumpkin bagel topped with crunchy walnuts and buttery, cinnamon fl avored Dutch apple topping.

Pumpkin donuts (Dunkin Donuts)--a doughnut fi lled with pumpkin pie fl avored buttercream, topped with white icing and graham cracker crumbs.

Pumpkin Pie -- The seasonal favorite of a pumpkin-based custard, baked in a single pie shell, rarely with a top crust.

Pumpkin Pie Blizzard (Dairy Queen) Pumpkin pie pieces blended in creamy vanilla soft serve crowned with whipped topping and nutmeg.

Pumpkin Spice M&Ms--A limited edition treat, available now at Target stores across the US.

Pumpkin Pie Spice Pringles--Pumpkin Pie Spice fl avored potato chips, available exclusively at Walmart.

Pumpkin Pie Pop-Tarts--frosted and sprinkled, and fi lled with pumpkin pie-fl avored fi lling, real nutmeg, cinnamon and clove.

PumpkinButter (Trader Joe’s)--This tasty spread with a lighter consistency than jelly or jam can be spread on toast, waffl es and bagels.

Pumpkin Smash Smoothie (Jamba Juice)-- A Fall classic of real pumpkin blended with frozen yogurt and a hint of cinnamon and nutmeg pie.

~Fun Fact~

Illinois tops the nation in pumpkin

production.-farmfl avor.com

12_highlights_pumpkin spice.indd 1 11/22/2013 12:26:19 PM

crossroads highlights 13

Guess who - teachers of the monthWe picked - now you guess! Tweet us @CCHSCrossroads if you know these teachers

Julia Metzger | Managing Editor

Be the fi rst to guess correctly on Twitter!

She has been teaching at Carmel for fi ve years. She went to the University of Notre Dame for her undergraduate degree in chemistry, and the University of Chicago for a

masters degree in economics. When asked why she became a teacher, she said, “I was really concerned that we didn’t have enough good scientists and programs developed to educate the next generation of scientists and doctors.” She loves to teach because “as a teacher, you see a lot of great progress in students. The best part is when your students go off to college and they email you saying, ‘Carmel prepared me so well, and now I understand what you were talking about. I thought you were crazy then,’” she said. Favorite book? A Tree Grows in Brooklyn. Favorite Movie? Forrest Gump. Favorite hobby? Gardening.

Guess who?

This well-known Carmel teacher teaches math and physics. He attended Undergraduate University of Notre Dame, Graduate School of the University of

Chicago for his MBA (Master of Business Administration), and National Louis University for an MAT (Masters of Art in Teaching), and it is his seventh year at Carmel. When asked what made him want to become a teacher, he said, “I wanted to build up an army of students to help take over the world, and Carmel students are very easy to brainwash. It’s worked

out well.” His favorite part of Carmel is “students who care,” and teaching is his third major career. “Teaching is the only [career] where you jump out of bed in the morning, and you want to get to school,” he said. Favorite movie? Die Hard. Favorite sports team? Manchester United. Favorite food? Carrots.

Swing your partner round-and-roundThe new swing dance club teaches a more formal kind of dance

Looking for a way to relieve the stress of never-ending homework and tests? Look no further than

the new Swing Dance Club. Carmel has broadened its range of student activities by the basics of classic swing dance. According to nowyourdancing.com, Swing dancing is usually characterized by it’s bounce and energy, as well as lots of spins or underarm turns.

Senior co-president Patti Bucci had a strong drive to begin the club and did not hesitate to take action. “I’ve done partner dancing informally, but then I found a teacher (Religious studies teacher, Katie Wesolek) who had an interest in starting the club with me,” Bucci said.

Some may say that a less modern style of dance would not interest kids

as much. Bucci sees it differently. “We have had a great turn-out for a new club,” Bucci said,.”Kids are having a good time learning the different steps.”

This new club also encourages students to take action if they too want

to start a club of their own. New clubs are always welcomed if they have strong student interest and a set goal in mind.

So why should you join this rising club? “Swing dance is a good way to meet new people and it teaches the various steps of partner dancing,” Bucci said. If interested in joining the club, ask Bucci or senior co-president TJ Johnson for more information. Teacher moderators Wesolek and health teacher Jacob Luketin also welcome students to stop by and ask questions.

Kyra Strutzel | News Editor

13_highlights_swing dance.indd 1 11/22/2013 12:31:42 PM

14 highlightscrossroads

Marching into the futureSee why some Carmel students are choosing the military

Connie Sapienza | Sports Editor

The question, “What do you want to be when you grow up?” has taunted high schoolers for

years. Some plan college and career choices day by day. Others follow in the footsteps of several Carmel alumni who are enlisted in the military.

Senior Ian O’Connor made up his mind freshman year. “I wanted to join the military after a visit to the Arlington National Cemetery,” O’Connor said. “The soldiers that died there gave everything they had to protect freedom for America and other countries, and I want to do the same so that future generations of Americans can also experience the same freedoms.”

Along with O’Connor, freedom and service inspire senior Alyssa Laystrom to join the military. “I have always wanted to serve my country whether it was through the military or politics,” Laystrom said. “It took a lot of thinking, but eventually I decided on joining the Coast Guard.”

For some, joining the military comes from an infl uence at home. Junior Trey Ross has several family members who have been or are currently enlisted in the Air force, the Army, or the Navy.

The military also provides several educational opportunities through competitive, prestigious academies throughout the United States. Some Carmel students have taken advantage of these opportunities by applying to these schools. O’Connor wants to be an airborne ranger if accepted to the

United States Military Academy West Point or a Marine if accepted into The United States Naval Academy.

Laystrom hopes to receive her military education at The United States Coast Guard Academy (CGA) in Connecticut. To prep for the basic training portion of CGA, Laystrom has improved her upper body strength through rowing. “Not only have I been rowing, but I also run several miles a day,” Laystrom said.

After going to school, some plan to make the military a career. There are several opportunities for enlisted men and women to continue their service, such as offi cer school, pilot training, and instruction of fellow service members.

“I plan on becoming an offi cer through a service academy or a ROTC program in primarily the Army and secondarily the Navy,” O’Connor said. “[But] right now, I do not plan on making the military a career, but when the time comes, I will make a decision based on the opportunities presented.”

Whether it’s because of inspiration, family infl uence, or a career choice, joining the military is a courageous and challenging decision for anyone, let alone for high school students. The Carmel community gives its best wishes to these bold students wherever their futures take them.

Loyalty to the United States of America and the ideals it was founded upon are more important than life itself. Without freedom, there is no

point in living.

-Senior Ian O’Connor

-Junior Trey Ross

Ever since I was 5, I’ve always wanted to [join]. I think it

was just natural.

-Senior Robert Price

My father inspired me.

Saluting Some

of Our Alumni

Veterans

Gerry Sapienza ‘04 (Army)Michael Porter ‘04 (Army)

Michael Karich ‘05 (United Nations Space Command)

Al George ‘07 (Navy)

Ryan Healy ‘10 (Army)Dakota Gaylor ‘11 (Army)

Tyler Wagner ‘12 (Marines)Morgan Mason ‘12 (Army)

Mike Falger ‘13 (Army)

14_highlights_army.indd 1 11/22/2013 12:08:01 PM

crossroads heath/lifestyle 15

Healthy alternativesWays to have the healthiest holiday possibleLexi Massarelli| Layout Editor

All families have different holiday customs, but almost all focus on food. Many students will

overindulge, but simple portion control can make the holidays healthier. The

main problem with the overindulgence is that people consume too much food for one sitting. Eating slowly and making a few substitutions can also help. For example, substitute the excess

of buttery rolls and salty potatoes with a variety of vegetables and seasonal fruits. Remember don’t get too excited over the overwhelming amount of food, portion control is key.

white meat turkeywhite meat turkeywhite meat turkeywhite meat turkeywhite meat turkey

102 calories102 calories102 calories102 calories102 calories

YOU CAN HAVE... INSTEAD OF...

One turkey thighOne turkey thighOne turkey thighOne turkey thighOne turkey thigh

250 calories250 calories250 calories250 calories250 calories

One slice of cornbreadOne slice of cornbreadOne slice of cornbreadOne slice of cornbreadOne slice of cornbread

90 calories90 calories90 calories90 calories90 caloriesOne dinner rollOne dinner rollOne dinner rollOne dinner rollOne dinner roll

128 calories128 calories128 calories128 calories128 calories

A quarter cup of gravyA quarter cup of gravyA quarter cup of gravyA quarter cup of gravyA quarter cup of gravy

50 calories50 calories50 calories50 calories50 caloriescranberry saucecranberry saucecranberry saucecranberry saucecranberry sauce

105 calories105 calories105 calories105 calories105 calories

15_health_thanksgiving.indd 1 12/2/2013 1:30:16 PM

16 health/lifestylecrossroads

Shooting down the fl u

According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), fi ve to twenty percent of Americans catch the fl u each year, and two-hundred thousand Americans

are hospitalized from fl u related symptoms. However, the annual fl u shot can help settle these statistics.

Flu shots help maintain healthClaire Zupec | Reporter

What are symptoms of the fl u?Symptoms of the fl u include high fever, coughing, sore throat, chills, fatigue, and

nausea.

What are the side effects of the fl u shot?Reactions to the fl u shot are similar to symptoms of the fl u though much more mild. These include a low grade fever, soreness, headaches, itching, runny nose, wheezing, headache, and vomiting.

The people who are at

the most risk for the fl u

and developing fl u related

complications are: children

below the age of fi ve, adults

over the age of sixty-fi ve,

pregnant women, and people

with preexisting medical

conditions. Despite not being

at the highest risk, teenagers

should still be vaccinated

against the fl u to reduce their

chances of passing the fl u on

to people who are at more

risk.

People receiving the fl u

vaccine have two options.

One is the traditional

injection in the arm. This

vaccine is made from the

dead fl u virus and helps the

body create antibodies to

fi ght against the fl u. The

other option is the nasal

spray, which is made from a

weakened version of the live

virus. This helps create an

immune response in the nose

and throughout the body.

Two options for fl u vaccine

Some people are more at risk

Average Cost:The average cost of a fl u shot ranges from

$0-$40 depending on medical providers.*

Money saved:Those who are

hospitalized with the fl u or fl u related

complications spend an average of

$3,990 in medical costs. Emergency rooms alone cost average of $730.*

*According to CDC

Flu shot locations:Walgreens

Dominicks Pharmacy CVS/Pharmacy

TargetOsco Drug

Costco Pharmacy

Information you need to

know:

QA&

16_health_flu shots.indd 1 11/22/2013 11:28:32 AM

crossroads health/lifestyle 17

Retrain your brainStudents support a healthier mindsetEmma Scheer | Reporter

HOTLINES:*1-800-SUICIDE – hotline for people contemplating suicide

*1-800-334-HELP – Self Injury Foundation’s 24-hour national

crisis line

*1-800-799-SAFE – domestic violence hotline

*1-877-332-7333 – Real Help For Teens’ hotline

Tips for Being the Best You:Tips for Being the Best You:

- Be well rested- Be well rested

- Visit a counselor- Visit a counselor

- Find a support system - Find a support system

- Don’t be quick to judge or criticize - Don’t be quick to judge or criticize

- Join a club or sport that meets your interests- Join a club or sport that meets your interests

- Surround yourself with people who care about you- Surround yourself with people who care about you

- Be happy with who God made you to be- Be happy with who God made you to be

- Express yourself through dress- Express yourself through dress

- Stay organized; make lists- Stay organized; make lists

- Manage your free time- Manage your free time

Seven in ten girls believe they are not good enough or do not measure up in some way including

their looks, performance in school, and relationships. Self-confi dence, self-acceptance, and self-esteem issues are rising in high schools around the nation. More and more, teenagers are constantly comparing themselves with their peers and, worse, with some actors and models. The pressure from school, society, and social media often becomes so much for students that depression and anxiety set in and lower self-confi dence.

Self-acceptance problems often derive from family problems, friend drama, or past failures. Ms. Elizabeth Carlson, the social worker at Carmel, gives advice to students at least once a day. One of her suggestions for students struggling with self-confi dence is to fi nd things that interest them. “Know that everybody has something that they’re good at. So fi nd that thing and really get involved in it because then they’re going to feel that success and feel good about themselves,” Carlson said. It might be as easy as joining a club or sport. Feeling good physically coincides with feeling good mentally.

Unfortunately, it often comes as second nature to see someone and automatically focus on personal fl aws. “You’ve got all of these digitally enhanced pictures in magazines that make it look like the perfect person

either looks a certain way or acts a certain way, and it’s hard to live up to those unrealistic expectations,” Carlson said. Messages sent throughout society by television, movies, and magazines paint images that disappoint most teenagers, leading to a lack of self-esteem.

Pressures as high school students, effects of images in the media, and comparisons to others are just a few reasons teenagers struggle with self-esteem. To overcome these diffi culties, senior Jack Nonnenmacher turns to friends and family. “My friends help me, but my real support system is my little sister, Caroline,” Nonnenmacher said. Comparing ourselves to others is not

uncommon, though it is unhealthy. “I fi nd it hard to not judge yourself based on others because we live in such a competitive world,” junior Kylie Yocum said. Sophomore Erin Popielewski agrees that whether students compare looks, grades, athleticism, or status,

teenagers never seem to be truly satisfi ed. “Other classmates are just too quick to judge, for instance taking my sarcasm too seriously,” Popielewski said. If peers aren’t judging each other,

they’re criticizing themselves, which diminishes self confi dence. And it’s not just television that encourages unrealistic comparisons. Social media outlets allow us to follow up on how peers and famous celebrities dress and act. “We use Facebook nowadays to quickly compare ourselves to others. I recently deleted my profi le because of that,” Nonnenmacher said.

Depression and anxiety make students feel like they are trapped and alone in a dark hole. But it’s important to understand that there are others in the world and even in school suffering the same type of pain. By realizing other students feel the same way, students can support each other and help one another through their diffi culties.

Statistics from Heart of Leadership

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18 crossroads sports

That’s a wrap!Follow-up on the highlights of fall sportsMandi Lasso | Reporter

Boys’ soccer wins regionalsThe boys’ varsity soccer team impressed many as it made its way through the playoffs this season. One of its biggest games was against Fremd, where the team took the regional championship title in a 4-3 penalty shootout. The boys then moved on to the semi-sectionals, where they came close in a 2-1 loss against Buffalo Grove. One of the team’s goals was to beat St. Viator after an 8-0 loss in the beginning of the season.

“When we beat Viator 3-1, we truly believed we had accomplished a goal we’d been thinking about for a while,” junior Justin Ehren said. “We improved a lot over the course of the season. We changed our formation and personnel on the field many times to find the right combination for success.” The soccer team finished with a record of 12-8-3.

The girls’ varsity volleyball team continued to dominate this season, finishing 31-8. The girls’ chemistry on and off the court contributed to their multiple wins. “Outside of volleyball, we have each other’s backs, which forms a sense of trust on the court,” senior Shauna Meagher said. “The highlight of this season was definitely last Tuesday’s win over Glenbrook South. Our energy was through the roof that game,” senior Lauren Fournier said. The volleyball team finished 4th in conference and made it to the semi-sectionals, where the girls came close losing 25-21 and 25-19.

The girls’ tennis team ended its season on a positive note, finishing 2nd in conference. Seniors Kathleen Felicelli and Michelle Kannenberg won conference as doubles partners and made it to state. “Making it to state was awesome because that was Michelle’s and my goal this season,” Felicelli said. The two finished their state run with six total rounds. “Our team’s focus this year was on team bonding and working together because even though tennis can be considered a single person sport, it is a team sport as well,” Felicelli said. Junior Christina Rao qualified for state this season in the Stevenson sectional.

Girls’ volleyball wins regionals

Kannenburg, Felicelli, and Rao go to state

18_sports_fall sports.indd 1 11/22/2013 12:24:44 PM

crossroads sports 19

107-95. The score of The Bulls’ first game this season. All of Chicago had high expectations for Derrick

Rose coming back and defeating the Miami Heat; unfortunately, they were let down. Even with a rough start, the Bulls are still keeping their heads high while they continue to work hard for the remainder of the season. But this begs the question: Is Rose’s return going to take us all the way there?

A torn ACL got in the way of Rose playing last season. All of Chicago was frustrated. They wanted Rose back, but he took the whole season off to recover. Fans asked, was it really necessary to take the entire season off to recover from this injury?

“Yes, I think so because it takes a really long time to recover from an ACL tear. And now he’s back, going to be better than ever,” junior Megan Rediger said. “But honestly, I don’t think we would’ve benefited last season because he needed to heal completely.”

“Yes, it was the right decision, because there would be no point in having an injured player on the court because he wouldn’t be playing at the best of his ability, and that would put more pressure on his teammates,” sophomore Dani Delozier said.

Junior Patrick Ergastolo had a different view. “If Adrian Peterson takes ten months to recover from an ACL and MCL tear, it shouldn’t take Derrick Rose 18 months to recover from an ACL tear. The Bulls would have benefited if he came back earlier,”

Ergastolo said.Freshman Patrick Teehan agreed. “No

it was not the right decision. After his surgery and recovery, Rose should’ve went to some practices and maybe played some games because now he is not on his game for this season,” Teehan said.

All of Chicago may not be able to agree on the decisions Rose made last season, but all fans share excitement to see him succeed.

Chicago vs. Green BaySports rivalries are prominent at Carmel

One of the biggest rivalries known to the National Football League exists between the

Chicago Bears and the Green Bay Packers. Senior Dalton Wright is a die hard Bears fan who believes his team is superior to the Packers for many reasons.

“First off, we have Jay Cutler, and along with that the rich history of the Bears with George Halas and the great line backing core throughout the century of their existence has really carried us through better than the Packers,” Wright said.

RC Cox, who was born in Green Bay and whose dad played for the Bears but won Superbowl XXXI while playing for the Packers, disagrees with Wright.

“[The Packers] have better history and tradition than the Bears. We’ve won a lot more Superbowls than they have, and overall the players are much better,” Cox said.

The Packers have won thirteen championships, which is more than any other team in NFL history. When the Packers were recently faced head to head with the Bears on Monday

November 4th, the Bears left it all out on the field.

Prior to the game, Wright predicted the outcome to be “27-24 Bears.” It was an accurate prediction because the Bears did win with 27 points, but the Packers only scored 20. Despite the Bears not having its starting quarterback Jay Cutler playing because of his injury, the Packers also lost its quarterback Aaron Rodgers early in the game due to his fractured collarbone. The outcome of the game may have been different if Rodgers had not gotten injured, but the Bears’ defense used this to its advantage and pulled through with a victory.

The Bears and Packers are both currently looking to clinch the division in the National Football Conference North and win the championships.

Nicole Mouzakiotis | Reporter

#TheReturnD. Rose makes his return after his injuryDiya Verma | Reporter

I’m a Bears fan for life and would never cheer for the Packers.

-Senior Dalton Wright

“”

(a.zidek)

19_sports_bears.indd 1 11/22/2013 12:28:08 PM

Price Scale Most expensive

Chic-Fil-A, the southern franchise claiming to have “invented the chicken sandwich,” has come to Vernon Hills. The hype may be confusing for some--it’s just a chicken patty and a pickle on a bun. But after one bite, you’ll understand what all the fuss is about. A simple #1 (classic chicken sandwich, waffl e fries, and a drink--get the lemonade) is fast food minimalism at its best. If you haven’t tried it yet, it’s time you braved the crowds and treated yourself.

Known for its friendly environment and fabulous food, the Shanty is a great restaurant for people of all ages. The Shanty menu combines classic food items, like the Shanty burger, with their own specialties, like the New Orleans Blackened Conch Filet, which was featured on the Food Network when the Shanty was highlighted on an episode of “Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives.” If you haven’t checked out the Shanty yet, you are missing out!

Chili U, located in downtown Libertyville, is able to compete amongst its competitors. For those who savor spice, they will be pleased with a variety of delicious, hearty chili options available. While it does offer a full menu of other options, it’s clear that the focus here is on the chili. Accompanied with a bar and lounge for adults, Chili U is a nice change from the typical American style eateries.

Slyce’s dark decor is more sophisticated and classy than the typical pizza restaurant. Standouts include the Oven Roasted Chicken wings, which is the perfect blend of lemon and salt, and a tradition wood fi re oven pizza, the quintessential dish at Slyce. The sauce is perfectly sweet and spicy with the perfect amount of cheese. The service from start to fi nish is friendly and attentive. Overall, Slyce was one of the best places to go in a while.

Entering Shakou Sushi of Libertyville, you’d think you were in the heart of downtown Chicago. The contemporary Japanese restaurant includes an eating area, a sushi bar, and a modern lounge. The presentation of the food is beautiful and refi ned. The sushi, however, was just mediocre. On late weekend nights, the bar is energetic, sophisticated, and a new hot-spot for adults; the music and energy bleeds into more teen-friendly areas.

Shakou Sushi625 N Milwaukee Ave, Libertyville, IL 60048224-433-6675

Chick-Fil-ASte 360, 701 Milwaukee Ave, Vernon Hills, Illinois 60061 (847) 247-8000

The Shanty38985 U.S. 41, Wadsworth, IL 60083(847) 336-0262

Chili-U547 Milwaukee Ave, Libertyville, IL 60048(847) 549-3152

Slyce127 N Main St, Wauconda, IL 60084(847) 469-8840

Least expensive

$ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $

Teenagers love to go out to get food. From heading to a McDonald’s to grab a bite on the go, to the ever-popular Chipotle, to Applebees, the options are endless. Yet it can be hard to make a decision. Some prefer quicker options, other prefer to go to sit-down restaurants for their more intimate and sophisticated ambiance. For some, formal school dances are some of their favorite times to go to nicer restaurants. “I typically don’t make it to fancier restaurants outside of homecoming on a regular-basis,” said sophomore Grant Conarchy. “So when I do, it’s a big deal.” Yet, the fancier options come with a price. The cost is a major concern for teenagers when they head out the door. “When I go out to eat with my friends, I don’t want to spend a lot of money,” junior Molly Roger said.

Eating Local

back cover.indd 1 11/22/2013 11:42:59 AM