FALL 2021
Introducing This Edition’s Writers... Juan Ledesma Marcus Beach Larrieu Genesis Reese Syenna Mayo Courtney Moore
Parker Cross Country Congratulations to Parker’s Cross Country this year! Coming off a crazy covid year, lots of things were up in the air. But, as it turned out the cross country team had a great year, beat many records, and a couple of our Falcons made it to state. Congratulations to the coaches and the team!
Fall Activities Overview By: Juan Ledesma Fall is a favorite season amongst many people. That is why I decided to use the topic in my article. Some people call this fall season well, fall, while others call it autumn. Autumn is derived from the Latin word "autumnus", which means “the passing of the year.” “Fall” is simply derived from the action of the falling leaves. Now, I had gathered some information and found my questions to be followed by diverse answers. One of the two questions was “What are your three top fall activities?” The second asked of the first thing that popped into your head when you hear the words “Fall season.” Following are the graphs in which you could see all of the different fall activities that people enjoy doing, so I’ll go ahead and leave you to it!
Fall Activities Overview continued...
Sherlock Holmes and the First Baker Street Irregular: “the game’s afoot” By Courtney R. Moore As I watched the plans being implemented, and the sets being painted, I knew that this theater production was going to be extraordinary, even as the practices were a little chaotic and fun. The only problem with the whole situation was, this British-based play coming in 2-3 weeks. But, as quoted from Sherlock Holmes: the game’s afoot, right? “Sherlock Holmes and the First Baker Street Irregular” is about a gang of street urchins who team up with the famous detective Sherlock Holmes and his sidekick, Dr. Watson to solve crimes. 8th grade illuminates the acting scene with Maleeyah Daggett playing the role of Wiggins, the main Baker Street irregular, while Ruby Mikulski plays the iconic detective Sherlock Holmes and his sidekick Dr. John Watson, played by Niko Lawrence. On the most recent of Mondays, I visited to see what the cast’s rehearsals were like: and it started with getting all the set props that were needed for a scene, and always saying the iconic line, focus is what? Essential! Then it was announcements and scenes; In addition to this, a background of what to expect when you see this performance: there will be magnifying glasses, bowler hat, and possibly a goose (I have no idea why).
To add more info about “Sherlock Holmes and the First Baker Street Irregular”, it consists of several parts of stage crew: set design, props, tickets and publicity, sounds and lights, and the heads, which are the stage managers (similar to junior directors). They’re essentially the “arts and crafts” division of this play that make up the sets (settings), manage the sounds and spotlights, and props in which the actors will use to make the scene become more appealing. And fun fact: did you know that the character of Sherlock Holmes appeared in 1887, in a novelette called “A Study in Scarlet”? In-any-case, the play will happen on November 12th, 2021 at 7pm; Currently, students are able to see the play performances, but everyone is required to wear masks in the audience, and on-stage, which is a very important aspect toward cast and crew members. Now, there will be a follow-up to this article, for the aftermath and thoughts about the play overall (so expect to see that in the near future!) And to end off with a mysterious quote: “To a great mind, nothing is little.” - Arthur Conan Doyle, A Study in Scarlet
This Month’s Fashion By: Genesis Reese Trendy clothes The new trendy clothes and styles are aesthetics like: Goth, Emo, Soft girl, Street, Bruh girl, E-Girl, Grunge, Cottagecore. The trending shoes are Air Force Ones and Jordan 11’s white boots. Nike, puma and adidas are the trending shoe brands at this moment. Others opinions Two-piece sets will be big for the colder months. Stylists think both pinks and earthy tones will be trendy colors this year. Lots of people think mid-length skirts, pink hue, velvet fabric, trendy athleisure, off-the-shoulder tops, attractive statement sleeves, cool stripes and embroidered patches are very cute and stylish because you can wear Midi Skirts anytime, anywhere.
Keep Up with the Trends Lots of trendy pieces of clothing\styles are Oversized Shoulder Pad Boyfriend Jackets, Black Face Masks, Head Scarfs, Sorbet Pastel Tones, Yellow Bags, Folk Inspired Coats, White Knee High Boots, Yellow and Camel Color Styling. Just like flatforms, glossy lips and all our other favorite Y2K fashion trends, skorts are officially back in vogue Unlike the skorts of our past, the 2021 trend generally falls into two categories: super sporty or sleek and sophisticated. How To Be Stylish Believe in the Capsule Wardrobe, Keep Clothes That Fit You Well, Avoid Occasion-Specific Shopping, Inspiration From Celebrities, a Look at Online Shoes, Pursue Spontaneous Shopping, Sell Items From The Wardrobe, Follow the Current Trends. My advice, Follow Bella Hadid’s clothes and the way she dresses, that’s what I did and now look at me. Fashion Tips Always look for fashion tips on the Fashion NewsPaper. I'll always give some. Here are your tips for the month. 1. Develop your personal brand. 2. Have things tailored. 3. Raid your mother's or grandmother's closet. 4. Add character with your accessories. 5. Find your signature colors. 6. Channel your inspirations. 7. Be true to yourself!.
Movies By: Marcus Beach-Larrieu Are you at home and you don't know what to watch on the great big screen in Marcus theaters or on your TV? Here are some movies that you can watch in your free time! Venom:Let There be Carnage Andy Serkis (director) continues to make the Venom franchise! Eddie Brock and Venom (Both (played by Tom Brady) must now defend the city from Carnage’s wraith (Woody harrolson)can he stop him or will it be too late?It's out in theaters right now so go purchase your tickets or buy/rent on amazon today! Rons Gone Wrong tells a tale about an awkward boy (Jack Dylan) and a broken, glitchy and funny robot (Z ach Galifiankis) start their journey of their friendship.In theatres right now!So tell your families to purchase tickets to go see Rons Gone Wrong (Is not available on redbox yet to your gonna have to wait)
Movies- Continued Ryan Renolds stars in this Action comedy as a NPC bank teller who uncovers the secrets of his Gta-look alike world and saves it from a corrupt video game maker with the help of a mysterious. female player.Out on DVD today! Shang Chi and the Legend of the rings Shang Chi and the legend of the ten rings is the first Asain related movie in the MCU. It is Getting good reviews from critics and people all over the world which makes Shang chi one of the best MCU films.This combines action,Asian culture and a bit Comedy into one Big movie!But the question is, can Shang chi stop his corrupt father from accidently awakening an ancient evil?Find that out in theaters today
Molding the Future with Mr. Walker By: Syenna Mayo Bio and Background Information Many have heard of Jason Walker, known to students at SD161 as Mr. Walker, but here is some background information on him. Mr. Walker has been teaching in Flossmoor School District 161 since the 1998-99 school year. Twenty of those years were spent teaching Art at Serena Hills. Starting in the 2018-19 school year Mr. Walker began teaching Art at Parker Jr. High. Mr. Walker grew up in Lansing, Illinois and spent many years living in Chicago. He now resides in Homewood and enjoys living in the community he has spent so many years teaching in. Mr. Walker graduated from Thornwood High School, attended South Suburban College, and graduated from Illinois State University with a degree in Art Education. In 2012 He earned a Master’s Degree from Governor's State University in Sculpture. Mr. Walker is an award-winning Artist and Modeler. He spends much of his free time working on his own art (with an occasional gallery showing) and building and painting models. He is a staff writer for Amazing Figure Modeler magazine and also streams how-to painting and modeling videos online. The rest of the time is spent gaming, going to concerts,and collecting vinyl.
1. How did Mr. Walker show you were his favorite? Caitlyn: He told me (instructions, compliments/kudos) but he also said other students names after mine Ella: I FORGOT MY WATER ONE DAY AND HE GOT ME A PLASTIC WATER!!! Reagan: Mr. Walker showed I was his because he was very encouraging towards me specifically and because I had a lot of artistic talent, it was easy to grade my assignments (I got A's) 2. Is Mr. Walker your favorite teacher? Ella: YESYESYESYESYESYESYESYES Caitlyn: Yes, he is one of the many Reagan: He was one of my favorite teachers 3. Do you have a reason as to why he was your favorite teacher? Ella: Because he wrote in my yearbook don’t eat worms and then I didn’t! :> Caitlyn: He is just funny and nice Reagan: Mr. Walker was patient with the class and Mr. Walker makes jokes because he's funny 4. And a bonus question for the most wholesome answerer, How do you feel about him having multiple self-proclaimed, and proclaimed by the man himself, favorites? Reagan: I don't mind if Mr. Walker has several favorite students because there are (some) n good students at this school that are pretty awesome. Comment made by Ella: I’m his favorite student so sorry. Comments made by Michael: No, I am (his favorite)
Parker Interviews: Back to Seventh Grade By Courtney R. Moore Sometimes, when ordinary people think back on memories or are reminded of the past, it could have a positive effect on them. For today’s edition of “Parker Interviews”, the readers reading this right now could possibly know a little more about two seventh grade teachers, (which is a blast from the past for most current eighth grade students now). Who are these two teachers, you might ask; The two teachers are the 7th-grade superteam of Mrs. Tehako and Ms. O’Dwyer. The Questions CM: To start off on some sort of a silly note, this is a question for Mrs. Tehako. Mrs. Tehako, do you still keep the big, yellow pencil? And to follow-up, do you still have the pencil in which the now 8th grade Humanities class signed? Mrs. Tehako: I have it hanging up from the ceiling, but I should take it down so other people can sign it; But it’s still here. CM: Ms. O’Dwyer, how do you feel about teaching history in the classes that you teach? Because there’s so much, do you still want to introduce it to the students or? Ms. O’Dwyer: I guess I can start by saying that when we have a unit to teach, the question is in fact, “where do we start?” We have to cover the content that’s important to the topic, and it’s a struggle. Because events do not just happen in isolation, there is always a cause and effect, and there’s so many stories, and so many perspectives to learn as well. The most important thing is that multiple perspectives are being shared and we focus on inquiry skills so students know how to do research on their own and can learn how to source properly.
CM: This is a question for the both of you, how do you feel about your classes so far? Was the most recent first quarter experimental into how the pandemic and such is handled in schools? Mrs. Tehako: Yes, but to be honest, I was a little nervous to have everyone back in school; But as it turns out, it’s been good. Also, if everyone keeps their masks up and has the realization that my windows will be open to have air flow going, then it’s good. I’m comfortable so far. Ms. O’Dwyer: Let’s just say that we moved at the same pace as we did last year, in virtual learning because we’re still in a new situation of coming back to school. So, because of many students coming back to school who haven’t been in person in a while, the pace is slower so that everyone can get back into a rhythm of learning and do some community building. CM: How do the both of you handle humanities with the every-day school schedule? Like, how do you keep that mindset to switch out different curriculums for all students’ learning? Ms. O’Dwyer: It is a little difficult this year, just because it’s not exactly the same as it has been in the past. However, we are still moving forward at a pretty rapid pace, after a slower beginning and I think we’re making the best of the situation with the pandemic. We are still doing projects and it’s still going to be a rigorous experience for the Humanities students. I have 5 different classes this year: 7th Gr. SS, 7th Gr. Adv SS, 7th Gr. & 8th Gr. Humanities and SEL, For me, it is the prep work that I do that makes all the difference, and I have that down pretty solid. Mrs. Tehako: I’ve gotten in the flow that the first period of my day is Humanities, and the rest of my classes are MyPerspectives. So, in the mornings, I put on my Humanities hat, and by the end of the day I have my ELA hat on. CM: For Ms. O’Dwyer, how do you balance managing on a farm and being a teacher here at Parker? Ms. O’Dwyer: Somehow I’m able to pull it all off. I am struggling a bit with my schedule now, but when it was virtual, I was able to be more flexible and organized. Even though the winter will be much more of a challenge. My home/farm environment makes me very relaxed, even though it’s sorta stressful with getting up an hour earlier and physical chores; but putting on my two different hats is worth it because I love my animals. Honestly, I need to give a shout out to ALL the teachers who have children at home, because they are rock stars for being able to manage their little humans and teach. Goats, chickens, dogs, and cats are easy!
CM: Mrs. Tehako, what is your inspiration for teaching english-language arts at this school? Mrs. Tehako: I had a really great ELA middle school teacher, and middle school was my awkward time; She made me feel very comfortable and definitely made me love reading. I decided that I wanted to be that to someone else. CM: Do you remember her name by chance? Mrs. Tehako: I don’t remember her first name, but it was Mrs. O’Shea because she got married in the middle of the year. CM: To compare both the 7th grade and 8th grade Humanities classes, which one is sillier? Mrs. Tehako: That’s a tough one, sillier: the 7th grade Humanities class now, but last year’s was more creative. Ms. O’Dwyer: I’m going to say the 8th grade class is more serious, but they’re still SO fun, enjoyable and so witty. We had a snowball quiz in the 8th grade class the other day, and that was the silliest I have seen them! It reminds me that you all are still kids and still like to be silly. The 7th graders this year even as they are scholarly, they have the capacity to be REALLY silly, actually at the drop of a hat! The key is to be able to transition between silly and serious so we can have the best of both! CM: What is your prediction for the rest of the 2021-2022 school year? Mrs. Tehako: Another question to think about, but I think that the winter is going to get the kids a little antsy because they can’t get their energy out outside. But I am excited to see how everyone grows throughout the year, because middle schoolers change so much from beginning to end. I’m excited to see that. Ms. O’Dwyer: I am hoping that sometime that the pandemic will ease up so that we can feel a little back to normal, there’s still going to be a lot of learning and development skills. To finish off this piece of “Parker Interviews”, I hope you, the reader, enjoyed it as much as I had an insight on creating it. We learn the key things through teachers, and we also sometimes recollect on it, which can be both beneficial and give us a better outlook on life. Take a visit to Mrs. Tehako and Ms. O’Dwyer in rooms 12 & 13; And quoted by unknown, “The influence of a good teacher can never be erased.”
Thank You to all the Parker Press writers and especially to our readers! Come back for more Parker news this winter! There is a lot more to come! Mrs. Tehako and Mrs. Hayden
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