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North Choirs performed their "Great Works" concert at the Assumptiom Church on Wednesday, March 27. KYLIE DUKE
POINTE
NORTH
GROSSE POINTE NORTH HIGH SCHOOL
SINCE 1968
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UPCOMING
EVENTS
ACT TESTING Saturday, April 13 at 8 a.m. in the gym REPORT CARDS Tuesday, April 16 for all students on Student Portal SCHOOL CLOSED Friday, April 19 for all students FINANCIAL AID NIGHT
Monday, April 22 from 6:30-8 p.m. in the library
INSIDE
"WHAT NEEDS TO BE
STOPPED ARE THE PEOPLE,
NOT
THE
PLATFORMS. IF ONE SOURCE OF MEDIA IS
BLOCKED THESE PEOPLE WITH
EXTREME
VIEWS WILL JUST
FIND
ANOTHER WAY TO
COMMUNICATE." PAGE 2
"YOU GET TO
HEAR
ALL
THE"GET HARD
INFORMED WORK THAT EVERYONE AND MAKE YOUR DID IN THEIR VOICE HEARD. SEPARATE WE CLASSES CANNOT COME TOGETHER AFFORD AND TOITLOSE ALWAYS SOUNDS." THEM
AMAZING." PAGE 7 PAGE 2
By Syeda Rizvi, Victoria Wittenberg & Kylie Duke EDITOR-IN-CHIEF, BUISNESS MANAGER & STAFF REPORTER
Dozens of affluent families, including those of celebrities, have recently been charged by federal offices in a multimillion dollar scandal to cheat students into college acceptances. The incident included not just bribing college officials, but also manipulating test scores, credentials and photographs. According to National Public Radio, at least 33 parents paid anywhere between $200,000 to $6.5 million to William Rick Singer in return for fake records and ACT/SAT scores, ensuring unqualified students gain admission into competitive schools such as Stanford and Yale. Ivy League schools are a popular option for students to apply to. Last year, a student at this school was admitted to Yale, one of the more well-known schools impacted by this
admissions scandal. While students plan on applying soon, some have become weary on the accuracy of the admissions system. Junior Alex Jakubiec said he believes that no matter what, there will be instances of fraudulent admissions “all the time.” “(Getting into college) stands on the principal under the integrity of getting in, not how much money someone has in their back pocket,” Jakubiec said. “I would say it it's more of a status issue. Obviously people who are wealthy and powerful would want the best for their kids and thus the best university.” However, both Jakubiec and English teacher Alyssa Sandoval are firm believers in the idea that no student deserves special treatment in the application process, no matter how rich their family may be. Sandoval is a member of the Advancements Via Individual Determination program. AVID helps students, specifically juniors and seniors, with school work and tests related to the college admissions process. Sandoval guides students through
what can be a strenuous process when done fairly, and said she was appalled to hear about the college admission scandal. “It's very frustrating, especially as somebody who believes that hard work can get you into places that you're hoping to arrive at,” Sandoval said. “So when you hear about scandals like this it can be very heartbreaking to people who feel value in education, because it seems as though it diminishes the whole concept of being able to work at your own education in order to improve and then be rewarded for that hard work.” While having a student buy their way into college breaks the ethics code at nearly all institutions, there are development cases, that according to Prep Scholar, colleges actively look out for. Development cases refer to the students whose families have given or are potential donors of large sums of money. For instance, Stanford University classifies development cases as applicants from families that can donate $500,000 or more. In other words, some colleges accept donations to secure their institutions endowment and use the money to build new facilities. But this is still not an acceptable criteria to hold students to, according to Sandoval. “I think that you should definitely have to go through the same process as everybody else,” she said. “That idea of being able to just be accepted into a school or be accepted into a program or ar a job leads to a situation of nepotism, where we’re just picking favorites and going from there.” According to English teacher Kristen Alles, who not only is a part of AVID but also tutors for ACT and SAT testing, becoming accustomed to scandals such as this increases the number of those willing to buy their education in place of earning it, thus taking more opportunities that are better suited to those who are deserving of them. “I believe that as a society, we have some things backwards. We value education, but we are putting forth the message that this can be bought, which is simply not right,” Alles said. “The access to education should be equal and equitable for all students, but with a scandal like this, it shows that it’s not, unfortunately.”
Melting arctic ice produces concern of emissions, carbon footprint By Hannah Zalewski & Giacobi Bush PAGE EDITOR & INTERN
As of March 12, 2019, the ice levels of the Arctic Sea have reached their maximum wintertime growth, and clocked in as the 7 smallest numbers on record. While the cause of the decrease in ice is disputed among those from every side of the political aisle, some believe this is influenced by the emissions each and every person release into the atmosphere annually. The building engineer, Andrew Praedel, said that this school works advantageously to limit the building’s emission while minimizing its carbon footprint as a whole by improving energy efficiency. According to Praedel, the two boilers, which are used to heat the school, are inspected annually and as of the last inspection, the boilers measured at 85.6 percent and 86 percent efficient. The efficiency percentage is the percent of energy in the fuel that is actually used to create heat and is not lost in the atmosphere during the heating process. In comparison, the most efficient boilers on the market have an average efficiency of anywhere from 80-88 percent. Praedel knows the boilers are almost half a century old and t herefore will never reach maximum efficiency, however, the school can still help to decrease its usage, which will ultimately aid in increasing productivity. “The best way for us to reduce our emissions is just to reduce emissions coming from what is already as efficient as it can really be,” Praedel said. “But we can reduce our usage, which will help us be more efficient.” Science teacher Sue Speirs said she believes that the engineering staff does an “amazing” job of keeping the building running well while being conscientious of the school’s carbon footprint. Further, she believes the programs
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WEDNESDAY, APRIL 10, 2019
implemented to improve efficiency, such as the energy management system, are means of avoiding “exploitation” of the environment. The energy management system is a computer system that monitors the building’s temperature and lighting on an occupied-unoccupied schedule. During the day, when the building is occupied, the heating and lighting systems are on, and at night when the building is empty or unoccupied, they are turned off. According to Praedel, this system not only saves electricity, but also saves the school money. Freshman Kristen Krier and Speirs both agree that reducing one’s carbon footprint and being friendly to the environment is not only important for the school as a building, but for each individual person who attends. “I try my best to use containers, plastic bags, but, it's not always possible and it just escapes your mind,” Krier said. “But… you do need to do something about it.” Speirs recommends that every household should work to become more environmentally friendly. She suggests lowering the thermostat in the average household to 60 degrees dsuring the winter months, turning off unused lights while limiting the usage of single-use products. With small actions like these, including closing the lights in an empty room, Krier said she believes the impact changes can have on the environment will be obvious as long as everybody puts in a conscious effort. “I feel like if everybody... (pitched) in a little bit, we could definitely reduce waste,” Krier said. “Because it’s one of those things where... some people do it and the other pesople don't, but unless everybody puts in 100 percent, nothing's going to change.”
VOLUME 51 | ISSUE 12
News Life
Interact club to throw senior citizen prom By Sofia Ketels MANAGING EDITOR
For the first time since it was known as the Impact club five years ago, North’s Interact club will be bringing a new meaning to the term “senior prom,” as a combined service project with South’s Interact club. On May 2, the clubs will be working together to host a prom for senior citizens in the community that advisor Jill Davenport hopes will draw a large audience from the North and South districts alike. “The biggest difference this year is... partnering with the South Interact club as well,” Davenport said. “So we've kind of tempted Sunrise and Shore Pointe and The Rivers and some of the senior centers to try to get it... advertised by the home. We're hoping for 50 or 60 (seniors).” Interact is a community service club that organizes and carries out service projects at North and in the community throughout the school year. Though it has been years since the last senior citizens prom, senior Joey Haney credits the student and advisory leadership within Interact with working hard to bring it back this year. According to Haney and Davenport, student volunteers are responsible for organizing the majority of the event, down to the decorations and catering of the event. “It's been a lot of work. We've had to reach out to multiple organizations in the Grosse Pointe like kitchens and stuff for food,” Haney said. “We've made decorations for the event at our past few meetings, we've had some good turnouts.” To junior Mackenna Sherry, the process of pulling this event together has been almost like planning a wedding, but made easier with the help of North volunteers, who will also work at the prom to set up, serve food and dance with the senior citizens as the night goes on. Seeing the joy and fun that the seniors and students may have at the prom is what Sherry is looking forward to most about the event, and one of the reasons why she became so invested in it. “I was interested in that, mainly because it's a great way to give back to the community, especially elders, because you see how much they enjoy it,” Sherry said. “So it's just a great experience.” According to Davenport, there were about 60 seniors at the event the last time it took place around 5 years ago. While she, Sherry and Haney are all optimistic about the turnout of the event, Davenport said that she is slightly concerned about having a lower turnout, given that so much time has elapsed since the last event. She said that she encourages students to volunteer to help with this or any other service project at an Interact meeting, which are on the third Thursday of every month. In addition she also stresses that this event is open to any senior from the community. “Anybody from the school can bring their grandparents or their great aunt or uncle, whatever. It's open literally to anybody,” Davenport said. “The more the merrier.” Haney agrees, and said the fun of the prom, along with giving something fun back to the community, makes the night worthwhile, and he looks forward to students and seniors alike having fun. After a year’s worth of planning, Sherry said she is looking forward to seeing how the event plays out, and hopes it goes well enough that they can host another prom for the senior citizens next year. Davenport is also hopeful, and especially looks forward to seeing the seniors and students dance. “They boogie man, they definitely dance,” Davenport said. "The number of people that come up to us and say, ‘I didn't get to go to my senior prom, this is my first time.’ and it's really heartbreaking in some respects, but they just have such joy. (We) know that it’s worth all of the work."
1 Editorial 3 Reviews 5 2 Indepth 4 Sports 6
By Hannah Zalewski & Kylie Duke
LIFE
North Pointe – Wednesday, April 10, 2019 – 2
Internet danger: By Brooklyn McWhorter, Abi Murray & Ray Jason WEBMASTER & STAFF REPORTERS
In the wake of the Christchurch, New Zealand mosque shootings that left 50 dead, anonymous Internet platforms are once again under fire for the toxic role they can play in creating an echochamber for extremism. Many sites make it easy to affirm detrimental beliefs and plans, like those of the shooter in New Zealand, who published a 74 page manifesto promoting white supremacist ideals on 8chan. 8chan is an online community based on the collection of forums where individuals are encouraged to express themselves and speak their minds freely on themed message boards. It is very similar to 4chan, where chats completely disappear within anywhere from minutes to days, resulting in comments that turn increasingly extreme in order to capture the attention of discussions. Reddit is another, more mainstream, anonymous platform where users have to make an age-verified account in order to like and comment on posts, content with more recognition climbs to the top of message boards. Senior Jonathan Chapman, a frequent user of Reddit, believes people should be held accountable for acts of extremism, not websites. “What happened with New Zealand was a tragedy. I’m not sure you can just put the blame on a specific site,” Chapman said. “What needs to be stopped are the people, not the platforms. If one source of media is blocked these people with extreme views will just find another way to communicate.” Although she has never been on 4chan or Reddit, sophomore Sarah Shanley is familiar with how many memes or common jokes are popularized by these platforms. She said that they are inefficient when it comes to controlling inappropriate content. “I haven’t reported many things but anytime I report something, it’s never been taken down,” Shanley said. “It just shows up on my phone that says, “You don’t have to see this” (or) “You don’t have to view this.” On 4chan, content is evaluated by anonymous moderators and “janitors” selected by the site who work on a volunteer basis to clean up content that break the site’s rules. These moderators can delete posts globally, ban users, sticky or close threads when deemed necessary but it is hard to tell when comments are removed because of the nature of the site. Internet memes published on 4chan were referenced by the
how online forums become platforms for extremism
New Zealand shooter throughout the attack. Social studies teacher Dan Gilleran has been teaching for 19 years. He views this Internet culture as more about psychology and sociology than technology because of the way it can manipulate people to outdo themselves and others. Gilleran said in the end, it all becomes a host of innumerable “unintended consequences.” Gilleran correlates the flock to obscure chat rooms, like those of 4chan and 8chan, to people’s inherent sociological desire to identify with a group of people in attempt to comfort themselves. “People have a need to belong to a group, to family, to a group of friends,” Gilleran said. “People who might feel really isolated and alone can use these websites to build that bond and build that connection, which may not happen in real life, (but) hopefully they use it in a positive way.” On forums labeled with an 18+ tag, guarded only by a simple age verification feature, there is little to nothing restricting users from saying anything they would like to, besides the few rules upheld by moderators that were written by 4chan’s creator, Christopher Poole, who was only 15 when he designed the site. For the most part, users are allowed to speak freely without ever having to create an account or give any personal information. No required accountability generates a lack of fear of any social repercussions, leading to users potentially saying hurtful or offensive things that wouldn’t otherwise be acceptable in typical interaction. This makes these anonymous sites a prime breeding ground for the brewing of dangerous communities such as white supremacist and anti-women’s rights groups, which play parts in attacks similar to the New Zealand mosque shooting. Gilleran is alarmed by this lack of accountability and finds the anonymous posting of extremist declarations cowardly, hoping society can move forward and use the Internet and the spaces it’s created in more a productive manner. “There’s a real danger, when you can just post all this stuff
and get such a wide audience and not identify yourself with it,” Gilleran said. “You might do to for fun, but you never know what percentage of the population picks it up and runs with it.”
Choirs show off “Great Works” in concert By Emily Widgren & Julia Magnan PAGE EDITOR & STAFF REPORTER
Every year, choir director Ben Henri organizes the “Great Works” concert for North families, students and community members to enjoy. Over the many years that this show has taken place, it become a staple for students in the choir program. For weeks leading up to the event, students prepared and rehearsed for the concert, which was held on March 27 at the Assumption Greek Orthodox Church. The songs that were performed are typically well-known, in addition to being derived from many different parts of the world. One of the pieces that freshman and choir member Amanda Campo finds to be more unique was written in Spain, and students rehearsed and performed the song entirely in Spanish.
“I will be wal k ing in the halls a nd suddenly brea k out in full Spa n ish,” Ca mpo sa id. “T here was lots of singing a nd a lot of rehea rsing of words a nd pronunciations, because all the songs were singing in different la nguages.” W h ile per for m ing, the acoustics of the room made the students voices echo as they sa ng, wh ich ma ny audience a nd choi r members alike found to be the h ighlight of the n ight. To junior Mia Mattaliano, however, the variety of the pieces performed was the best part of the show. While most songs were in a major key — which typically sounds happier and brighter — there were also some that were in a minor, or slightly more sad sounding, key. Personally, Mattaliano said that her favorite piece was “Flora Helena,” a song that was written in the minor key. “I personally like songs in the minor key. They sound really spooky and interesting,” Mattaliano said. “I just really
like that we have a few songs that are kind of really um, I don’t know, it’s like, it’s so hard to explain but like when you’re singing in the minor key it’s kind of like, tension almost. But like, in a mysterious way I don’t know how to explain it.” Senior Abbey Paton is in Pointe Chorale, the highest choir level, and has been performing in this “Great Works” show for all four years. With all of North’s choirs being brought together, she believes the success of the concert can be credited to Henri. Because of his patience and his ability to improve the choirs, Paton believes that Henri enabled each to sing better, both individually and all together. “My favorite part is probably when all the choirs get together and sing,” Paton said. “You get to hear all the hard work that everyone did in their separate classes come together and it always sounds amazing.”
KYLIE DUKE
CHORAL CONCERT | Mattaliano, in the right photo, sings with her choir group in the “Great Works” Concert at the Assumption Greek Orthadox Church on March 27. Mattaliano said the location was perfect, and even improved their performance. “It’s such a beautiful church and it’s a great way to, get in the classical mode of singing,” Mattaliano said. “There’s stained glass windows and stuff and all this and the acoustics are great, which makes it sound really magical in there.”
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EDITORIAL
NORTH
POINTE
“Grosse Pointe Public School administrators and teachers are responsible for encouraging and ensuring freedom of expression and freedom of the press for all students, regardless of whether the ideas expressed may be considered unpopular, critical, controversial, tasteless or offensive.” BOARD OF EDUCATION POLICY Syeda Rizvi EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Michael Hartt PAGE EDITOR
Emily Widgren PAGE EDITOR
Sofia Ketels MANAGING EDITOR
Abi Murray STAFF REPORTER
Hannah Zalewski PAGE EDITOR
Maggie Carron PAGE EDITOR
Adam Schwartz PAGE EDITOR
Amelia Nowicki STAFF REPORTER
Brooklyn McWhorter Arzoo Chhaya PAGE EDITOR WEBMASTER Our editorial represents the opinion of the North Pointe Editorial Board consisting of the editors above. Members who have a conflict of interest with an editorial topic do not partake in that meeting or vote.
SOFIA KETELS
OUR EDITORIAL
MY TURN FARRAH FASSE
North Pointe – Wednesday, April 10, 2019 – 3
The roses have thorns: A debunking of reality television
If you mention the term “reality TV show” around Americans, most would picture people screaming obscenities and hurling objects at each other during an argument. Many people live for these scenes, although many of them are rooted in anything but reality. Ironically enough, these scenes are often meticulously choreographed by producers to achieve a higher viewer count, therefore gaining a greater profit. Shows like these are based in fallacy, and in my opinion, make even the best of us lose brain cells upon viewing it. Despite the name, events in reality programming are often shams. The hit show, “The Bachelor,” and its spin-off, “The Bachelorette,” captivate many viewers each season as they yearn to find out who the current bachelor or bachelorette will choose as their fiancé. Fans thrive on the rose ceremonies, which always contain the “unexpected.” Many are unaware of the fact that several details and decisions of the show are predetermined by producers. According to Buzzfeed, the final four are chosen by producers and the lead during the first episode based upon looks and very first impressions. Many things the contestants say are edited for the sake of drama to hook viewers as well. I can personally attest to “The Bachelor” being unrealistic as one of my female cousins was a contestant on it some years ago. During the first episode, when the girls exit the limo to meet the bachelor, she was told by producers to walk right past the guy and not say anything to him. To any sane person, it would not make sense that an individual who had put their whole life on hold and spent several thousands of dollars on outfits for the show to behave like that.
To viewers, it came off as her being “rebellious” and “one of a kind.” The bachelor must have disagreed, however, as she was eliminated in the first episode. The logic of reality TV appeals to the most illogical, and is quite honestly insulting to our intelligence as human beings. Most five-yearolds could sniff out the implausibility of the programs. Yet, some people pour over the programming as if it contains the meaning of life. Often, these shows are viewed by people for their ridiculousness in plot, but for me, it goes even deeper than that. People - if you can call them that - behave with such unbridled incivility it startles me beyond belief. Many would call these scenes funny, and I agree that they are, but only to a certain point. I believe some of our dignity is chipped away upon viewing these unhinged animals act as if they are in a zoo, most likely coerced into doing this by delusions and empty promises of money and fame from producers. Often, these shows sell false realities to viewers and participants alike. Not only can the show’s events be misleading about what real life is actually like, it can lead some viewers, most young and impressionable, to believe that the behaviors of these maniacal actors are acceptable. Sure, the actions of the participants may seem funny on television, but would it really be amusing if you were walking down Mack Avenue and saw several different groups of people assaulting each other with both fists and words? Whether or not we’d like to admit it, we’re all victim to being sucked into these television shows, despite how ridiculous or unrealistic they may be.
When we need to cancel "cancel culture" Your third grade teachers weren’t kidding when they said your online footprint matters. Yes, we get it, “don’t post anything you wouldn’t send to your mom,” and “don’t talk to strangers on the Internet,” but chances are, we haven’t listened to that advice as much as we should have. Today, it’s easier to make an accusation online than it is to check out an encyclopedia from the library. Because of this, fake news has spread like wildfire. Old tweets now have the power to destroy someone’s image, even if the statements are proven false. With this, association rises over accountability, and a past mistake creates a present problem. For example, take YouTuber Shane Dawson. While being on the platform since 2008, Dawson has become a prime example of how the style of mass media has changed over the yea rs th rough his “scandals.” With most situations involving quotes ta ken out of context, he has inadver tently exemplified “cancel culture,” which is a ter m used to descr ibe the online boycott of a person, product or company upon doing something that’s deemed wrong or unethical by today’s standa rds. Here’s the thing: cancel culture is the reason these scandals are happening. The lack of context or facts that come with many of these accusations create false rumors that ultimately become the downfall of the person they’re feeding off of. Misinformation and a lack of understanding bury themselves within the minds of many media users, making them appear ignorant. But what would happen if there were no tweets to “uncover?" The answer is nothing. One of the many lessons that we’re taught is to be mindful of who and what you interact with online. Posting anything is putting yourself out there, and understanding that you’re susceptible to anything is a huge part of avoiding your own online scandals. Another way we can build a better online appearance is to do our research. Rather than fueling the mob mentality that “cancel culture” entails by jumping on the bandwagon, do your research. Listen to the context that these quotes come from, understand what’s really being said and come to your own conclusion. Not only will you seem more informed online, but when it comes to more pressing matters, such as a scandal involving a political figure or representative, your opinion could dictate the outcome of something like an election. We tend to care more about certain things when they effect our own lives, so why should these situations be any different? The length of someone’s online career also counts as part of our research. Although it may seem like it's “too late” for many inf luencers, we need to take into account how long they’ve been on a certain platform. What’s socially acceptable at the time of an offence may be much different than what’s socially acceptable now, and the creators who have been online for a long time are now at risk for an old video or comment from 10 years ago blowing up in their faces and destroying their reputations. However, some situations are never excusable, like the use of certain slurs and sexual assault, and these are examples of when cancel culture can be beneficial. These are the times when victims of these incidents can be given justice. Today, “cancel culture” and online footprints have come to define the careers of those that have worked on different platforms for years, as well as bring into light the faults of the “exposed.” The power of the internet can change lives, so doing your research and being smart online can make or break your identity, or someone else’s.
" I don’t think it’s going to affect me getting into college whatsoever. It doesn’t concern me or seem to affect me personally." Angelo Profeta FRESHMAN
"They shouldn't be doing that to get money from other people. I’m going to still go to college, but I don’t agree with what they’re doing." Jada Laster FRESHMAN
"I feel like it’s a little bit unfair for the people who try super hard and then others can just buy their way into things. I feel like that’s not how life works." Mackenzie Driscoll JUNIOR
YOUR TURN: How does the college scandal impact By Adam Schwartz your perception on college admissions?
"It doesn’t really make me feel differently. Rich people have always been able to pay their way to do anything they want and find a free pass in ways other people haven’t been able to." Daniel Bernas JUNIOR
"It makes me feel unwell and cheated. There are definitely others who do this for their children, so it decreases the chances for people who try hard to get in college." Joseph Paglino SENIOR
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF: Syeda Rizvi MANAGING EDITOR: Sofia Ketels BUSINESS MANAGER: Victoria Wittenberg WEBMASTER: Brooklyn McWhorter PAGE EDITORS: Maggie Carron, Arzoo Chhaya, Michael Hartt, Adam Schwartz, Emily Widgren, Hannah Zalewski STAFF REPORTERS: Colin Duffy, Kylie Duke, Farrah Fasse, Ray Jason, Julia Magnan, Abi Murray, Amelia Nowicki INTERNS: Giacobi Bush, Niklas David, Ray Hamilton The North Pointe is edited and produced by Advanced Journalism students at Grosse Pointe North High School and is published every two weeks. It is in practice a designated public forum without prior review.
"For my students, I would worry it might make them feel like their hard work isn’t paying off if folks are going about college entrance through other means rather than their own efforts." Tamara Shepard SPANISH TEACHER
Comments should be directed to the student editors, who make all final content decisions. The views expressed are solely those of the authors or the student editorial board and do not reflect the opinions of the Grosse Pointe Public School System. We are a member of the Michigan Scholastic Press Association, Columbia Scholastic Press Association, National Scholastic Press Association and Student Press Law Center. We subscribe to McClatchy-Tribune Information Services and iStockphoto.com. One copy is available free to all community members. Additional copies may be purchased. Our editorial policy and advertising rates are available online at northpointenow.org. The North Pointe is printed on 100% recycled paper. CONTACT US 707 Vernier Road Grosse Pointe Woods MI, 48236 Email: gpnnorthpointe@gmail.com Phone: 313.432.3248 Twitter: @TheNorthPointe Website: northpointenow.org FACULTY ADVISER: Allison Dunn
EDITOR'S DESK MICHAEL HARTT
Addressing the need for homework-f re e nights Nea rly ever y day of my life is spent wa k ing up, going to school, pa r ticipating in extracur r icula r activities, going back home, studying a nd then going to sleep. T h is routine is the sa me for most students who attempt to ma inta in a superb GPA a nd pa r ticipate in the activities that they love. I, personally, don’t m ind my routine. I enjoy my extra cur r icula r activities, a nd most of the time, I don’t m ind studying subjects that interest me. I do have a problem, however, with the lack of com munication I have with my fa m ily because of my schedule. W hen I was younger, I would always dine with my fa m ily, a nd most nights, we would all sit together a nd work on va r ious activities for a couple of hours after dinner. Now, I ra rely do a nyth ing with my fa m ily. By tal k ing to my fr iends, I have seen th is lack of fa m ily time as a patter n. Ever yone cites the sa me reasons, too: “I don’t have enough time with spor ts a nd school” or “by the time I get home, I’m so tired that I don’t even feel like ha nging with my fa m ily." As h igh schoolers, we obviously won’t wa nt to spend as much time with our fa m ilies as we did in elementa r y school, but with college or a nother ca reer path a round the cor ner, most of us would agree that the days we spend with our fa m ily a re numbered. W hat h igh school adm inistrations across the countr y need to be doing is implementing homework free nights, much like the Townsend Ha r r is H igh School in New York City. W h ile it may sound like a stretch now, it is completely practical. I would suggest that one n ight ever y two weeks be designated as no homework, no spor ts a nd no extracur r icula r activities time. A day like th is would cer ta inly improve students’ mental health a nd their ability to spend time with their fa m ily. Aside from local solutions, it is impor ta nt to note that colleges should be ta k ing into account students’ fa m ilial responsibilities. Universities, especially h ighly selective ones, look for students who ta ke on the most a mount of work a nd the most a mount of extracur r icula r activities a nd spor ts, wh ile ma inta ining a n almost per fect GPA in the most diff icult classes. If colleges took into account a student’s fa m ilial obligations a nd focused more on their intellectual prowess versus their ability to keep themselves as busy as possible at all times, I th in k they would f ind a better group of students. T he a mount of time that students spend with their fa m ily is unlikely to cha nge a nytime soon unless some of the ideas aforementioned a re implemented. Designating homework free nights may not even need to be distr ict wide as of now. Even if one teacher stuck with th is idea, the homework load each student in their class would face could decrease exponentially. Until that happens, students will continue living their life sepa rated from the fa m ily that they need, wh ile their days together a re al ready so lim ited.
ELECTIONS
4 – Wednesday, April 10, 2019 - North Pointe
STUDENT ASSOCIATION OFFICERS
My goal is to have more outreach in our community. I think people who live in Grosse Pointe should be just as invested in the schools as the students are.
Clare Loch PRESIDENT Sydney Agius VICE PRESIDENT Michael Hartt VICE PRESDENT/ CLASS OF 2021 SENATOR
My main goal for the class of 2021 council is to plan an amazing prom that we will all remember; with amazing caterers, a unique location, and an inventive theme.
Jimmy Latiff SECRETARY/ CLASS OF 2021 SENATOR
I have been in DECA for 2 years Participate in Interact, Am an 8 year classical pianist and participate in annual competitions and tutor younger students in math.
My goals for student government include increased creativity and ideas for academic and non academic activities and building more relationships between students and other communities in need.
I’m a diligent student and have experienced success in all my classes. I give full effort in all tasks I perform, while also being compassionate and honest to everyone.
Mariah Loper SECRETARY CALSS OF 2020 SENATOR
You should vote for me because I will make North a more inclusive, inviting place where everyone can be comfortable to celebrate themselves.
I currently participate in DECA, North Pointe, Interact club, Debate club, and Student Association. In addition, I have a leadership position in three out of five of those clubs.
Pep Band member, Student Association member, Church Student Leader, Pep Assembly Committee, Girl Scouts, volunteer work and LGBTQ+ and Women's Rights activist.
I would like to keep the momentum going for fundraisers. I also hope that as a council we can become a family and support each other for the last year of high school.
I have been through Student Council since middle school and I know what works and what doesn’t. I am also creative and an optimist, always looking for fresh and new ideas.
I take great proud in serving as the Class of 2020's president and I hope I can continue my duties for senior year.
Class of 2020 Vice President, Varsity softball team, NHS, Link Crew, Volunteer at Ferry Elementary, Diamonds Travel Softball.
To help run a successful senior year filled with fun activities. I want to come up with new fundraiser ideas to help get our class ready for our senior Prom.
I have been in Student Council for the past three years and have been our vice president. I have good leadership skills to help make things happen.
My goal for student government is to be an advocate for the Class of 2020.
You should vote for me because I’ve had experience in leadership positions and we need a more diverse Student Council.
Link Crew, current Student Council and starting the Black Student Alliance.
I'm an average student like you. I believe the Student Council needs several improvements to stay relevant to the average student, such as an internet presence.
Varsity softball, NHS and Link Crew.
Getting the grade more involved as a whole when it comes to fundraising for our Prom because we want it to be the best but we need their support to do so.
I want to make our prom the most memorable along with all of the other events that come along with being a senior.
WHY ME?
Amanda Nguyen TREASURER/ SENATOR
I want to make our senior year very memorable for our entire class. I hope to get everyone involved with our senior year, as it is our last year here.
MY GOALS
Create more involveLink Crew, KNOTS, ment within and out of NHS, band, Student Asschool, to help represociation, Student Counsent the views of the cil and gymnastics. student body.
I am a very responsible, organized and passionate leader. I always have new ideas to bring to the table and I try and make sure I can see both sides before coming down to a
Danny Duquet SENATOR
I participate in gymnastics, cross country, Link Crew, NHS, Student Council Senator and President 2016-2019, stairwell and float construction.
ABOUT ME
I’m am a serious baseball player, both freshman and sophomore year I was team captain. I take stupid pride in my leadership and work ethic.
I will strive to make our Prom and other senior events to be the best. Another goal I have is to become the most successful grade in the school.
Vote for me, Danny Duquet, as we work together to make 20192020 the best year ever. I won’t let you down because I want to have a great year myself!
I participate in KNOTS, NHS, Willow, symphony band program, varsity swimming team and am in the most advanced choral ensemble.
I want to get the Class of 2020 more involved in the decisions made for our future and to come up with fun ideas to make that happen.
I’m a natural leader
Amelia Fly SENATOR
I have two years of experience as a class officer and I have given a lot of my time since freshman year to our class and am the best person for the role.
CLASS OF 2020
Vote for me because I’ve built experience as a member of Student Council and bettered our community. Vote for me because I care about our
ally Leone SENATOR
WHY ME?
As SA treasurer, I intend on spending money effectively in order to improve school functions and events.
If I am elected, this will be my third year serving the class of 2021, so I have experience. I will work tirelessly to make sure that the class of 2021 is accurately represented.
Link Crew, NHS, Field Hockey.
My goal is to get my classmates more involved in the decision making in our class. I also want to make our senior year the best out of all of them!
Even though it is my first time running, I know I can contribute a lot to our class with my leadership skills and positivity!
Abi Murray SENATOR
MY GOALS
Emily Widgren PRESIDENT/ SENATOR
ABOUT ME
You should vote for me because I will listen to everyone's opinion and keep the student body informed about all events.
In my spare time you can usually find me trying to find interviews for North Pointe, practicing my cello or (attempting) to train my puppy, Coby.
Ensure fundraising goes smoothly for our Prom as well as attempting to get a second school-wide dance that many students have been wanting.
I’m very excited to run for Student Council for the first time this year. I think I’d be an important addition because I will be a fresh voice to our class council.
Drama Club, Choir and Dance Team member.
I want to help bring all students together as one and make the school more fun and enjoyable for everyone.
You should vote for me because I love to help my peers, community and my school!
Katelyn Oliver SENATOR
RoryAngott TREASURER
Here at North, I am a three year member of the 2020 Class Council, Interact Club, German Club and NHS.
I want to make sure that everyone in the senior class is representend and is able to have the best senior year possible!
Sam Marek Nia Crutcher Sydney Brumme VICE PRESIDENT VICE PRESIDENT/ VICE PRESIDENT/ SENATOR SENATOR
WHY ME?
I participate in Pointe Choral, Counterpointe, Drama Club, Spirit Committee, NHS, Link Crew, Student Association and I play and teach piano.
I have been on Student Council for two years, French Club, NHS, Link Crew, tennis and will be in Freshmen Assist next year.
Grace Haynes SECRETARY/ SENATOR
MY GOALS
Class of 2020 senator and S.A. Student Activities director, Freshmen Assist mentor, Charity Week Co-Chair, Choir member and Drama Club member.
Claire Yee PRESIDENT/ SENATOR
CLASS OF 2020
ABOUT ME
with a friendly personality. I possess the determination and skills needed to improve student government.
ELECTIONS
I ask for your support in this election as I hope to utilize my current experience as class treasurer to best represent my fellow classmates.
Imani Crutcher SENATOR
Member of the Orchestra Charity Week Committee, in Student Association, Church Youth Group, weekly nursing home volunteer, Detroit Civic Youth Orchestra.
I want to move up to heading or co-chairing a committee in Student Association. Also, encourage more involvement and school spirit from our classmates.
Next year is important for the Class of 2021. Student government/charity week committee for two years has shown me our needs in order to benefit our class and others.
I’ve been on Student Council since freshman year and hope to continue my role as a senator in the Council.
Junior year is one of the most important years for our council, so I really want to help everyone stay organized and get other students involved.
I will be working hard to make our fundraisers run smoothly as well as all things Homecoming!
ABOUT ME
MY GOALS
WHY ME?
Jack Gehlert
I am 15-years-old, and a long-time swimmer. My interests in school consist of history, followed closely by politics and science. Leadership is an interest that I value highly.
My goals are to benefit the school, and specifically the freshman class. I will hold fundraisers that can help with events that create the spirit we have at North.
I have experience as a leader in S.A., and have gained useful information. I understand what the school needs to thrive, and what the students want.
I am part of Student Council, freshman class president, men’s cross country, men’s swimming and diving, track and field, Grosse Pointe North and Jazz Band.
My plans would include winning the float and staircase competition this year! I plan to accomplish this by getting our talented Class of 2022 much more involved!
I’m athletic, ambitious, and musically involved.
My goals for student council are to eventually become president and raise as much money for fundraisers as possible.
I am on Debate Team, hockey, soccer and freshman senator.
My main goal is to make the school a better and more accepting place.
Clare Ramsdell SECRETARY
I hope to make North a more accepting and friendly place for everyone and to help plan and organize fun events for the Class of 2022.
I am in field hockey, ice hockey, lacrosse, Debate Club, and Yearbook.
Tom Sheffield TREASURER/ SENATOR
Lucy Turrini Ada Johnson VICE PRESIDENT/ VICE PRESIDENT/ SENATOR SENATOR
PRESIDENT/ SENATOR
CLASS OF 2022
I am in GPN varsity soccer, Vardar Club soccer, I want to positively Neighborhood Club affect our class by basketball, Olympic sharing my thoughts Development Program and perspectives. (ODP) soccer, and Concert Band.
I will make sure everyone is included and welcome in school activities, being part of our class supporting fellow Norsemen at sporting events.
You should vote for me because I’ve been a senator before so I know how S.A. works and because I will keep everyone in mind when making decisions. I will make sure our Student Council will remain focused in order to achieve our goals for the Class of ‘22. I am committed to influence the decisions made at our school. I will connect the class together and will work hard to make our goals happen.
Matthew Magiller SENATOR
As class treasurer, I hope to increase our budget to fund our senior prom and other events.
Keelin MCarthy SENATOR
Caleigh Murray SENATOR/ SECRETARY John Tsilimigras TREASUER
I am in the Grosse Pointe North symphonic orchestra and a member of French Club.
Ceci Doerr SENATOR
I participate in field hockey, lacrosse and Student Council.
Andrew Sliwinski PRESIDENT
People should vote for me because I have been on student council for the past two years and I am very hard working.
I want to continue to make my school a better place with charity events and fundraising for Prom.
I have been doing all I can and dedicating all my time to Student Council. I plan to make changes for the better of my peers.
Emily McCloskey SENATOR
My goals for student government are to raise money for my class and give ideas to help make high school more enjoyable.
I have particapted in Charity Week, Homecoming Build, tennis and Style Spectacular.
Freshman and sophomore senator, JV softball and cross country, Homecoming, Style Spectacular.
I have two years of experience in student council under my belt, so I know what works and what doesn’t.
Vote for me because I work hard and get stuff done!
Sarah Shanley SENATOR
People should vote for me because it is in my best interest for students to have a I am interested in bebeneficial, positive experi- ing more involved in ence at GPN and I think it student culture. is important that all voices are represented.
I will make sure my all of classmates’ ideas are represented at Student Council meetings and work to protect this house.
I’m a sophomore senator and Student Council member, as a freshman I was on the interim council, and I’m a part of the girl’s JV cross country team.
To continue to get more students involved in Charity Week and Adopt-AFamily and give a voice to the Class of 2021 in council decisions like the Homecoming spirit pack.
Vote for me because I’m an experienced member of the senate and committed to learning form this year to improve and give back to North as a junior.
Abby Simox SENATOR
Member of the Rocketry Club and participate in two sports, cross country and tennis, where I have experienced growth, met personal goals and made amazing friendships.
If elected, I would like to increase the number of student events, such as pep rallies and dances, to give students more chances to make memorable high school moments.
I moved to Michigan over the 2018 summer from New Jersey. I participate in the yearly musicals and plays and am very involved in the art programs.
With only having a I am very involved in few years left in high the school and want to school, I want to make become senator to be even them fun and very more involved. enjoyable.
Caroline Stafford SENATOR
I also want to leave a legacy behind.
I mostly participate in band activities but I’m also in Interact Club and plan on doing track this year. I enjoy my German and APUSH classes too.
Swim team, synchronized swimming team, French Club, Interact Club, Willow, student government and orchestra.
I would like to continue to plan events that will help our class raise the money needed for Prom.
CLASS OF 2022
ABOUT ME
I will listen to what our class members want when planning events, making class T-shirt’s, picking a theme for Homecoming, etc.
MY GOALS
WHY ME?
Farrah Fasse SENATOR
Ashley Sexton PRESIDENT/ SENATOR
I have been involved in S.A,. Swim Team and Spirit Committee.
I would like to make Grosse Pointe North a more enjoyable place for my peers.
WHY ME?
I’m a manager for the girls cross country team, a North Pointe staff member, and a senator for the Class of 2022.
My goal is to assist in leading my class towards funding and planning a great Prom.
Re-elect me so I can better our class even further, and pave our way to an amazing Prom.
Louden Fuchs SENATOR
Vote for me because I am an honest team leader and will listen to all points of view. I stick up for what I believe in and do what’s right.
MY GOALS
I have partcipated in North swimming, Pointe Aquatics swimming, Lochmoor swimming, Student Council and volunteer for “Kids On The Go.”
One goal that I want to accomplish is to get the voices of the kids who are not the Council to the Council, so that the rest of the community can get their ideas heard.
You should vote for me because I will get your ideas heard and act upon them. I will also be very active in the Council such as thinking of new ideas and participating in events.
Sophia Gerling SENATOR
My goals as Student Council President are to get students and people in the community more involved in school activities and raise awareness of student issues.
ABOUT ME
The activities I have participate in is helping building the stairwell before Homecoming, marching in the parade for Homecoming, Charity Week, bake sales, basketball JV.
My goal for student government is to make sure our school is fun and exciting, a place where people can make school their second home.
People should vote for me because I will do my best to make sure everyone’s voices are heard and that I am very engaged in school and do lots for my class.
Sophia Graham SENATOR
Sophomore vice president, baseball, preschool helper at church, March Madness teacher bracket, Secret Santa workshop helper, Homecoming float builder, Style Spectacular.
CLASS OF 2021
I am a competitive company dancer at Spotlight Dance Works, and a member of S.A. and band. I love swimming, biking, playing piano and volunteering!
My goals for Student Council are to effectively raise money for Prom and charity, to encourage involvement in school events and to unigy the Class of 2022.
I am hardworking, logical, and willing to do whatever it takes to sure that our class is well-represented in our school and community!
Shannon Kane SENATOR
WHY ME?
I participate in two sports, softball and volleyball, and I participate in Homecoming activities such as float building and decorating the stairwell.
My goals for student government are to make sure every student has a voice, and have an enjoyable sophomore year.
People should vote for me because I will be a responsible and dedicated member of student government, and I’ll do my best to achieve my goals.
Ben Sheffield SENATOR
MY GOALS
Chris Marshall PRESIDENT
ABOUT ME
Maegan Daher VICE PRESIDENT
CLASS OF 2021
North Pointe – Wednesday, April 10, 2019 – 5
I am in North varsity, soccer, concert band, club soccer, Neighborhood Club basketball and Olympic Development Program Soccer.
My goals as a senator are to help the Class of 2022 progress through the school year smoothly and to help start up and improve lots of activities.
People should vote for me because I will get things done and determination will help North progress as much as we can.
EDITOR’S NOTE
Responses are edited only for length and AP style and are not endorsements. The maximum length was 30 words per question. Election results will be posted on NorthPointeNow.org as they are released.
SPORTS
6 – Wednesday, April 10, 2019 – North Pointe
UPCOMING GAMES
GIRLS VARSITY TENNIS
Home meet against Grosse Ile High School on Thursday, April 11 at 4 p.m.
GIRLS VARSITY SOCCER Away game against Stoney Creek High School on Monday, April 15 at 7 p.m.
WINTER WINTERSPORTS SPORTSWRAP WRAPUP UP By Arzoo Chhaya & Ray Hamilton PAGE EDITOR & INTERN COURTESY OF DARBY PICKFORD
SISTERHOOD | The girls hockey team poses for a group photo on the ice. Freshman Lucy Turrini is happy with her overall growth throughout the season, and her team’s contribution to her progression as a player. “My teammates this year were amazing, they were really nice and welcoming,” Turrini said.
GIRLS VARSITY TRACK Away Meet against Romeo High School on Tuesday, April 16 at 4 p.m.
BOYS VARSITY LACROSSE GPNTWITTER
COULDN’T ASK FOR MORE | Senior and four-year varsity basketball player Ryan Webb has fond memories when he reflects on both his career as a high school player and his team. “It’s a brotherhood and the memories will stick with us forever,” Webb said. “They always motivated me to do better by pushing me at practice and by putting their hearts out on the court.”
Home game against Romeo High School on Thursday, April 18 at 7 p.m. COURTESY OF NICOLAS VOLPE
BOYS VARSITY BASEBALL Away game against Lake Orion Community School on Saturday, April 20 at 11 a.m.
ONE MOVE AHEAD | Senior Nicolas Volpe stands tall after winning one of many wrestling matches this season. Volpe is grateful for both his advancement to the regional tournament and his teammates and friends, who Volpe believes are a main reason he has been able to do well. “My teammates are a major part of my success throughout the season. They motivated me and pushed me until the end,” he said. “I would’ve made it out of districts if I wasn’t pushed to make weight.” However, despite having a good season, Volpe believes even this one had its lows. “My season was great. I think the highs were placing at the bigger tournaments and going to regionals. I’m always trying to think one move ahead. But the lows were not having a full line up for some important meets. I’ve grown so much in skill and personality though the sport, I believe I may pursue the next level of wrestling.”
PULLING THROUGH | Webb prepares to shoot a free throw. He describes his season as both eye-opening and successful. “My season was great, because we beat South in the district championship game and we made it all the way to the regional final game,” Webb said. “We had some really tough times as a team but we pulled it together at the end of the season and got some really important wins. All four years I’ve played on varsity, I would say I’ve grown the most in understanding the game. You don’t have to score the most points on the team to be the biggest factor. It’s a team game and as long as you win it’s all that matters. I’ve put a lot of thought into playing at the next level too, and it’s been a dream of mine since I was eight.”
March Madness brings annual rivalry WIKIMEDIA.ORG
By Maggie Carron & Colin Duffy PAGE EDITOR & STAFF REPORTER
As students and teachers fill out their brackets and hope for the best as they head into midMarch, the annual March Madness tournament is in full swing. March Madness is known by fans for its numerous upsets and heartbreaking losses, filling the tournament with ups and downs, making it what can be an ultimate emotional roller coaster. From an eight team tourney in 1939, March Madness has progressed to a 64 team tournament. As students and teachers get into making brackets, the common teams showing up are Michigan’s own University of Michigan and Michigan State University. Each year, people of all ages mark their calendars for bracket season including selfproclaimed die-hard Michigan State fan Ronnie Latiff who has a routine for how he spends his March, and what his bracket looks like. Each year, Latiff makes a bracket, and his pick to win this year’s tourney is the talented Michigan State team lead by point guard Cassius Winston. Along with other MSU fans, Latiff is outraged by the placement of his team as the number two seed in the midwest. “They’ve earned themselves a first seed,” Latiff said. “Sweeping (University of Michigan) three times should be more than enough to be given first seed.” For health teacher and mom of State basketball player Thomas Kithier, Jane Kithier is also unhappy with the placement of Michigan State against Duke. “I do not agree with MSU being put into the Duke bracket, because that makes us an 8 seed,” Kithier said. “We swept U of M this year, but I still have much respect for them. Our juniors and
seniors willed us those wins.” Although Latiff said that he would love to see MSU and Michigan face off in the Final Four, he thinks the possibility is small, judging on the hard bracket MSU has to face and Michigan’s inconsistency. “One of the teams will lose before the Final Four,” Latiff said, “but Michigan State would make the record 4-0.” Sophomore and life-long Michigan fan, Joey Randazzo believes it’s up to the team’s approach to any game whether or not they move forward. Randazzo has no remorse in believing they should not be complaining. “If they’re such an elite team they should just play who’s in front of them,” Randazzo said. Kithier has selected MSU as this years underdogs that could steal the championship, despite injuries. “I consider MSU a bit of an underdog because of all of our injuries. Josh Langford injury occurred in December and he is out the whole year,” Kithier said. “Josh was a leading scorer and amazing on defense. Josh doesn’t feel sorry for himself and continues to lead this team in different ways. Cassius Winston, Nick Ward, and Matt Mcquaid have injuries as well who are all starters.” Although it is prohibited by the school, each year students are seen watching March Madness during class time. Randazzo and Latiff both gave their words on whether or not they will be able to focus during these occurrences. “(Focus will break) 100 percent, although I’ll be anxious to watch the games, I won’t be able to,” Randazzo said. Despite their differences, Latiff had a similar response to Randazzo. “Absolutely, my focus will break, but that won’t stop me from doing my school work.” COLIN DUFFY
*Based on a survey of 115 students