By Annabelle Julien, Katie Madigan & Lilly Kline
MANAGING EDITOR, SECTION EDITOR & STAFF REPORTER
GRAPHIC | Katie Madigan
Following the four-hour emergency school board meeting, held on Jan. 19 at Brownell Middle School, questions arose surrounding the future of the adolescent health clinic at Grosse Pointe North High School. At the meeting it was determined that the construction of the health clinic would halt until alternative funding is found. This contrasts the previous decision to use the Sinking Fund, which provides the finances for improvements such as safety, technology, repairs and construction in GPPSS buildings, as the primary funding source for the clinic. Therefore, the postponement entails that GPPSS will lose the grant from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services to open a clinic in the district.
Due to the grant loss and the uncertainty of the clinic's future, members of the Grosse Pointe community have become disheartened with the decision to postpone the clinic, including North principal Kate Murray. Murray believes that not only will this decision not meet the needs of students in the community, but it will also hinder access to healthcare for students in future generations.
“I will always continue to advocate, and research and marshal resources in different ways to take care of our North students,” Murray said. “That is why we advocated so fiercely for this clinic, because we understand and see and experience our students’ needs every day.”
Community members on both sides have voiced their opinions on the board's decision, with most inquiring about alternative funds, according to school board President Ahmed Ismail. Though the majority decision was based on fiscal responsibility, Ismail voiced that the board has already begun researching alternate solutions.
“As far as the community reaching out, we’ve had feelings expressed both ways. I’d say probably a little more on finding another way to do the clinic rather than the way it was proposed, but we had opinions both ways and we are doing research now on different options,” Ismail said. “As soon as we have some answers and some viable alternatives we will certainly share those with the public.”
Although Ismail is searching for alternatives, GPPSS parent Clint Derringer believes that voting to postpone the clinic as a whole, whether there is an alternative or not, implies that the needs of students are not being met.
It is a difficult thing. [The clinic] was an emotional project, and we have more coming up like that. I just hope that after we get done we can move forward and say ‘let's do the best we can for the kids in the system.’
AHMED ISMAIL GPPSS SCHOOL BOARD PRESIDENT“I wanted to state clearly and publicly that failing to prioritize the needs of our students sends a terrible message to our community at large,” Derringer said. “It also sends a signal that the Board of Education will not always support teachers, counselors and administrators when they work hard to find these opportunities.”
Similarly, senior Vanessa Ciaramitaro agrees that the health clinic would have had prosperous effects on the community. Although Ciamitaro acknowledges the polarizing nature of the clinic
and the negative responses sprung forth from the funding of it, she notes that the positive impact of the clinic would offset the concerns.
“I believe the clinic would have been a very helpful resource for the entire Grosse Pointe community,” Ciaramitaro said. “Students and parents would benefit from having free and readily available quality care. The clinic had strong potential to assist all families in the community, especially those who may not have access to these resources.”
Moving forward, Ismail hopes to keep the community informed and involved in all projects building healthy discussions between members on future issues to support students.
“I hope [the board] can find common ground. We are not going to agree on everything and what everyone has to realize is that once we vote on something we need to move on,” Ismail said. “It is a difficult thing. [The clinic] was an emotional project, and we have more coming up like that. I just hope that after we get done we can move forward and say ‘let's do the best we can for the kids in the system.’”
Despite the unclear future of the clinic, Murray still hopes to remain educated on healthcare resources for students in the district. Through her continued involvement in researching, visiting and planning for the clinic, Murray believes that it is important to advocate for future healthcare resources in Grosse Pointe schools.
“I will have faith that there will be other opportunities or grants [so] that we can again, advocate and support our students here,” Murray said. “For example, we have a wonderful relationship with the church across the street, who has also been instrumental in supporting student needs and looks forward to partnering with us in our search for what else we could do to support our Norsemen.”
On Feb. 1, the College Board released the official curriculum for its new AP African American Studies course. The creation and development of this course led to controversy, especially in Florida where it was banned by Governor Ron DeSantis.
The curriculum took over a year to develop and is being piloted in 60 schools this school year, according to ABC News. Next school year, hundreds more will implement this class to cover topics such as African American history and culture, as well as the lives and accomplishments of Black men and women, according to the College Board course framework.
Despite causing debates, this course sparked the interest of many teachers and students, including junior Noelle Bland. She believes it could provide a chance for African American students to learn more about their history.
“I think it is important for everyone to know their roots and where they came from,” Bland said. “There are not a lot of classes surrounding African American studies in general and so it just intrigued me that there was a course specifically for that.”
Similar to Bland, junior Jada Jackson claims she also sees the many benefits the class could offer. She believes that the class could touch on other important topics that are not typically taught in normal history classes.
“I just don’t think [the class] will be so ‘slavery-focused’, which I think a lot of the [current] stuff is,” Jackson said. “I would love to learn about famous artists, famous writers, just any area where you do not see famous Black people at. I think that would be great exposure for our school.”
Along with student interest, teacher involvement is equally important. History
teacher Bridget Cooley says this course could be beneficial for all students, as it would allow them to learn new perspectives about history.
“I think learning from the past and empowering yourself to understand different perspectives is widely beneficial,” Cooley said. “It doesn’t mean we all have to see history the same, but I think learning those critical skills and thinking is something that anyone can benefit from.”
While promoting the learning of African American culture and history, the course would require actions from both students and faculty in order to bring the class to the district. Director of Secondary Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment Dr. Dan Hartley says that the process would take the efforts of students, administrators and the Social Studies departments. Hartley also says that implementing this course would fulfill the various aspects of the district Strategic Plan for education and provide opportunities for students to learn.
“The district Strategic Plan asks us to ‘revise the curriculum to reflect the diversity of our community,’ and to, ‘create learning environments where students will be able to identify with and see themselves in the curriculum and instruction’,” Hartley said. “The addition of this course would do all of these things and has the potential to benefit all of our students.”
While many resources help students prepare for college, the district is also working to provide ones for those interested in alternative career paths, such as trades. Ranging from plumbing to electricity to construction, trades careers are being discussed more in the school to educate students about these fields. On Feb. 28, the district held its Skilled Trades Night in the North gym.
Providing students with resources and the opportunity to speak to professionals is the main goal of this event, according to counselor Jennifer Sherman. She says this night allows students who plan to pursue a trades career to gain further insight into different jobs that interest them.
“[Students] can talk to all kinds of connections and professionals in the different fields,” Sherman said. “[They] can find out more about what their job entails [and] what kind of training they need.”
Students who plan to pursue a career in trades, such as senior Ryan Lutes, who plans to pursue a career in mechatronics, had interest in attending the event. After choosing not to attend college, Lutes believes in the benefits of his career path.
“I just do not believe I am suited in a traditional classroom setting.” Lutes said. “I feel like I learn a lot better with my hands and just learning through doing that sort of thing and the lower cost [is] appealing.”
The event opens students to career opportunities they can pursue without getting a college degree, according to Lutes. He says that although college is often a common route for students to take after graduation, careers in the trades are equally important.
“We have always talked about college and not so much about other alternatives,” Lutes said. “There's plenty of well paying careers that do not require a college degree.”
Similar to Lutes, Sherman also says that providing this opportunity for students interested in the trades is important because it will allow them to access resources and find a career that interests them.
“We hear more and more students are interested in looking into the trades,” Sherman said. “I think that talking to people in the fields is the most powerful experience they could get about deciding what the right path is for them.”
Grosse Pointe Woods MI, 48236 northpointenow.org
“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.”
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Grace Cueter
MANAGING EDITORS
Annabelle Julien
Grace Rossman
SECTION EDITORS
Kaitlyn Barr
Sophia Dragich
Katie Madigan
Ella McCarthy
Elly Meteer
Bella Yoakam
WEB EDITOR
Jo Jackson
SOCIAL MEDIA EDITOR
Christina Shea
COPY EDITORS
Madi Lucido
Mia Stephanoff
DISTRIBUTION MANAGER
Alyssa King
STAFF REPORTERS
Shayla Andrews
Mary Bentley
Isabella Boedeker
Sage Cole
Wren Cueter
Maggie Dunn
Gabe Goode
Lauren Kaled
Lilly Kline
Troy Lipscomb
Allie Mattes
Allie McIntyre
Sasha Poradun
Mia Schultz
Lauren Veitengruber
Hayley Zalewski
INTERNS
Sofia Gualdoni
Stephanie Karoutsos
Gianna Roux
The North Pointe is edited and produced by Advanced Journalism students at Grosse Pointe North High School and is published once a month. It is in practice a designated public forum without prior review.
Our editorial represents the opinion of the North Pointe Editorial Board. Members who have a conflict of interest with an editorial topic do not partake in that meeting or vote.
Comments should be directed to the student editors, who make all final content decisions. The views expressed are solely those of the student authors of the 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.
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ILLUSTRATION | Kaitlyn Barr
In the age of technology, the likelihood of seeing a teenager reading a book for pleasure is decreasing dramatically. According to the American Psychological Association, less than 20% of teens in the United States report reading daily for pleasure, while 80% percent use social media everyday instead. The benefits that reading can provide are extensive, such as exercising and strengthening the brain, building a stronger vocabulary, and learning more about human nature. Reading can even reduce stress, according to a study conducted by the Journal of College Teaching & Learning. The researchers found that reading lowers blood pressure, heart rate and physiological distress. Reading could serve as a key tool in a world that prioritizes mental health.
To relax and wind down after a long day, teenagers tend to mindlessly scroll on their phones instead of opening a book like they may have done in the past. The average time spent on social media worldwide has increased in recent years, going from an average of 90 minutes a day in 2012 to 147 minutes in 2022, according to an online survey from Statista. Although some teenagers may feel more relaxed scrolling on their phones, psychotherapist Victoria Strohmeyer with UCHealth Yampa Valley Medical Center warns against using social media as a stress reliever. When notifications go off on a phone, they increase heart rate, pulse and muscle tension. Since phone notifications rarely stop, we experience one stress after another. Reading is the better route
Faculty Advisor: Allison Dunn
to go if a teenager is looking to relieve stress, but unfortunately most will choose to scroll through social media.
As teenagers, we have so much content available at the press of a button, including an estimated 30 to 50 billion web pages on Google alone, and our attention spans are decreasing as a result. Our brains resemble those of young children, due to an information overload, according to a study from the Journal of Neuroscience. Therefore even when we do pick up a book, we struggle to have the focus needed to get through it. Teenagers are not used to the length of novels, but rather a quick one-minute TikTok video or Instagram reel.
Along with teenagers not reading for their own enjoyment, many are also ditching the required reading for class. Instead of cracking open their novels, students are increasingly relying on websites like SparkNotes, which provide book summaries. This may be a tempting time saver, but teenagers do not receive any benefits from “reading” on SparkNotes. By taking this shortcut students are losing out on the plethora of benefits that come from reading.
Although it is not the norm anymore, teenagers should challenge themselves to pick up a book. Reading is a great way to gain new knowledge and to set teenagers up for a future in higher education and the workplace. Reading will be a crucial part of all college curriculums and any field of work, so it is never too late to become a reader.
By Christina Shea SOCIAL MEDIA EDITOR
Over the last four years, thoughts and pressure surrounding college have consumed my brain. Every piece of work I submitted and every activity I did seemed to serve one purpose — to get me into the most prestigious college possible. These
selective colleges portray the notion that by attending, success is ensured. Yet, as I researched various universities during the college application process, I found that my success in college and beyond will be more so about the skills and attributes I possess than the school itself. Every school has value, but it is what one is willing to seek out and absorb from that university that ensures success.
Though I have experienced rejection throughout the college application process, I do
not see failure. Rather, I see the skill set I have built in high school which will allow me to thrive in any environment. The ability to reach out for help, serve as a leader, and pursue opportunities is beneficial to any further schooling no matter the ranking. Those are the factors that make students stand out amongst others and display their drive to utilize all the resources they are given. This skill set is ultimately the best thing one can possess as it is necessary for any career path whereas
an Ivy League degree is not. After college, employers are not so much looking for where your degree is from or even your college grade point, but what you will bring to the job. Education is only half of that. A willingness to learn and work your hardest is really what they want in an employee. These personal attributes are something a college cannot provide. They can only come from within yourself. While there is no doubt that a highly ranked college degree is impressive on a job application or
in an interview, without those personal traits of self-motivation and determination, it means practically nothing. The degree may define your education, but it does not define your success.
College has always seemed like the end-allbe-all. Though with the realization that I am the only thing that can determine my future, I have found comfort. I am able to disregard the rejections and acceptances and focus on the skills and personal factors that will truly impact my future.
FRESHMAN AMARRI
ISSA: “The Black Student Alliance, I feel like it would be a beautiful opportunity to be around my own culture because in most of the classes, it’s all white people.”
SOPHOMORE LILLIAN DESKINS: “Probably the French Club, I am interested in learning about the language and I’ve always wanted to travel there.”
JUNIOR AMAYA
JOHNSON: “The Spanish Club because I really enjoyed Spanish the first two years I took it. I wished I would’ve pursued it further.”
SENIOR NOAH LAFLEUR: “The club I would consider joining is the Mythology Club, I’ve always been interested in what others have believed in throughout history.”
TEACHER MICHAEL LAMB: “I think I would probably gravitate towards the Chess Club. [After] a long day of school, sometimes it's nice to be able to relax, play games and do something a little different.”
Placing within the top ten at states, freshman Claire Nurse has spent countless hours rehearsing and perfecting the trials and tribulations of synchronized swimming. Even as an underclassman, Nurse has already compelled judges with her confidence, and has grown very passionate about the sport.
“If my younger self could look back at me now and see how far I have come with this sport, she would be pretty proud to say the least,” Nurse said. “I am definitely doing this for my younger self.”
The team has a type of bond that cannot be broken. Nurse has seen the team grow together and improve their skills, while always motivating each other to go the extra mile.
“To see them [the team] get to this level inspires me everyday to go to practice and get better,” Nurse said.
Since she was a child, freshman Eliana Lappin has been mesmerized by figure skating and was inspired to become like the professionals. Since then, she has joined the figure skating team and continues to practice passionately. She finds growing as a skater and practicing to be enjoyable and rewarding.
“What drives me to become better is leveling up and learning new things,” Lappin said.
This is Lappin’s first season on the team, and with advanced skaters competing alongside her, it gives her an opportunity to learn new skills and take inspiration from others. Being on the rink with the whole team creates a comfortable environment for her to perform in.
“Watching [the team] skate makes me skate better,” Lappin said. “I see them do it and it makes me want to also do it.”
By Kaitlyn Barr & Mia Schultz
SECTION EDITOR & STAFF REPORTER
PHOTO | Mia Schultz
The varsity girls ice hockey team has found success on the ice this year, achieving a record of 14-5 in addition to improved stats and performance compared to the 2021-2022 season. The team has devoted time to improving their skill set and team dynamic in order to have a more successful season.
Having a good relationship with teammates on and off the ice is something that assistant coach Taylor Shaheen is crucial for quality performance. Shaheen stresses the importance of team bonding, as she feels it is very beneficial to the team’s playing abilities.
“The team is a unit, they are all friends, they work hard and they have fun playing together,” Shaheen said. “Everyone is a team player and everyone has a positive attitude.”
The team's bond has been noted by parents in the stands. Parent Nicol Brumme believes the team’s bond has helped them to push each other to improve, and strengthen their relationships through off-ice bonding activities. She feels that the team bonding that happens outside of practice is just as important to their success as their practice and training is.
“Me, as well as many of the other parents, help create team bonding experiences by hosting pasta parties, hanging out together at the games and rooting on our team whether they win or lose,” Brumme said.
The team’s positive energy has brought many players back to the team, including junior Ella Dobbs. With both returning players and new athletes joining, the team continues to grow in terms of skill and experience, according to Dobbs.
Through a successful hockey season, something junior Ella Dobbs finds very beneficial to the team’s skillset is their close-knit bond. “I think that because we're all so close we know how everyone plays,” Dobbs said. “We know everyones positives and negatives on the team and we know how they play.”
“The season has gone pretty great and we have more experienced players,” Dobbs said. “All the freshmen this year have come from travel teams so we have definitely gotten better.”
Although the team gained seven new players, the roster is still small compared to other schools. With low numbers, each team member has to work hard without much time to rest in between shifts, according to Brumme.
“The team still has a short bench, which means not as many players as we wish,” Brumme said. “The girls have to play shift after shift with not many breaks. They give it their all on the ice and play hard.”
Throughout the season, the players have learned to push through their fatigue to find success. With their achievements so far this season, Dobbs is hoping to make a successful run in the playoffs, which start on March 4.
“Last year we did not have a lot of chances because we did not have as many experienced players,” Dobbs said. “We have the chance this year to maybe make into the finals and state champions, and I can see that in the future for us.”
With the team’s accomplishments thus far, Shaheen is proud to see the improvement and the positivity from each individual. She hopes to see continued growth from players moving forward, and applauds the girls for their hard work and dedication throughout the year.
“I have been absolutely blown away,” Shaheen said. “These girls are extremely well-rounded student athletes and they really leave everything out on the ice.”
By Mia Stephanoff & Gabe Goode COPY EDITOR & STAFF REPORTER
1. SLAM DUNK MENTALITY | One of the things that senior Dylan Rickerman likes most about playing Neighborhood Club basketball is that there is not as much pressure to always perform well, like there would be on a school team. “The best part about Neighborhood Club is knowing I can shoot any shot or miss any layup and no one will get mad,” Rickerman said.
2. LAYING UP LEADERSHIP | The leadership qualities of the team’s coaches, seniors Liam Harris and Nick Jarackas, are admired by senior Ben Praet. “They’re really good mentors and coaches on the team,” Praet said.
3. PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT | In order to prepare as a team for games, the team holds practices to get in shape. Senior Jordan Arseneau enjoys the laid-back atmosphere at the practices. “We as a team would usually practice and scrimmage each other at the Grosse Pointe Woods Park Rec-Center,” Arseneau said. “We would just run the practices as a team and have fun.”
4. SCORING SUPPORT | Senior Jake Sands is recognized by his teammate senior Jordan Arseneau for his admirable qualities, such as always bringing positivity to the team. “Jake Sands is a special player,” Arseneau said. “Although he does not get the most minutes on the team, he was a fan favorite, always bringing energy and joy to the game.”
5. DREAM TEAM | The Neighborhood Club basketball teams are created by the players, so friends get to play together and Seniors Danny Michael and PJ Sorce enjoy the closeness of all the players on the team. “It’s a lot less serious,” Sorce said. “It allows you to have more fun and be with your friends.”
6. NO TRAVELING | While high school teams often travel to play other teams, Neighborhood Club teams stay in town, which is something that senior Jordan Arseneau enjoys. “You get to play with and against people you know every game, adding a little incentive to win,” Arseneau said.
Cheerleaders in green and gold cheer from the sidelines, energetic fans shout in the stands and the Unified Basketball team plays their hearts out on the court. Throughout the season, the team has dedicated their time and effort to earn a 5-2 record.
Through the Special Olympics of Michigan, Unified Basketball was introduced as an opportunity for students with special needs to play alongside their classmates, aiming to promote inclusion within the school community. To maintain a welcoming atmosphere for Unified Sports, junior Gabby Miller highlights the importance of support from peers, both on and off the court.
“It’s my favorite when during time outs they see their friends in the stands and the biggest smile grows on their face,” Miller said. “By encouraging, supporting, and cheering the team on, the players feel motivated and admired.”
Unified Basketball spurs a positive energy for both the audience and the players, according to Special Education teacher Sheila Doss. She reflects on making the special needs students feel like an important part of the school along with the thrilling experience.
“If you look at the Unified Sports teams there’s
bowling, baseball, golf, cheerleading, [and] tennis,” Doss said. “We’re hoping to be able to do some of that in the future.”
As the Unified Basketball season comes to an end, North offers more opportunities for students to continue making a difference in the special education community. Miller emphasizes the significance by recalling the possibilities made available by KNOTS, a school club working to promote inclusion for students with special needs.
“Students can promote inclusion while making everyone feel involved and equal through clubs like KNOTS,” Miller said. “I get paired with someone and spend time getting to know them through lunch and activities like cookie decorating.”
Similarly, parent Tish Hastings emphasizes the importance of peers actively opening up and presenting themselves as not only role models but friends both inside and outside of Unified Sports.
“Meeting new friends is so important but often very challenging for our kids.” Hastings said. “When other kids see that peer opening up and saying hello and helping out, it will hopefully be contagious and show others to do the same.”
Under the instruction of coach Drew Kisskalt, who works as a special education teacher at Parcells Middle School and who has been coaching the team for four years now, the Unified Basketball team has been able to grow and prosper at North.
“When I found out about the opportunity from Ms. Davis four years ago, I immediately accepted,” Kisskalt said. “I thought what a great way to incorporate sports, which I love, and inclusion, which is something I try to strive for, for my students and players.”
A challenge for Kisskalt is finding teams to play against. With Unified Sports being a relevantly new idea and program in Michigan, it means that the program has a smaller season than other teams at North, but Kisskalt is optimistic for the future and can’t wait to see more teams join in.
“The biggest challenge for me was honestly just finding more teams to play because it is a newer thing,”
Kisskalt said. “But there’s some awesome grant funding through the Special Olympics that allows these teams to explore these options. I think more and more high schools in Michigan and hopefully around the country are jumping on board and getting involved.”
Not only does Kisskalt coach the team for the students, but also to benefit the community. Through Unified Sports, Kisskalt has been spreading a message of awareness and empathy.
“I think events like this help the entire community at this point,” Kisskalt said. “Any school or community that has an opportunity to get involved in Unified Sports, I say do it. It helps grow understanding and awareness, empathy. But the biggest thing, again I’m going to go back to my players, they get a sense of independence, camaraderie, dignity and feeling welcome to be part of the school.”
1. HELPING HAND | The Unified team’s number three junior Alyssa Burney assisted the players in the basketball game and ensured they had the spotlight. “I really like helping the kids that don’t have as good of the chances we do in sports,” Burney said. “And I’m also a KNOTS, so I get to see them and spend a lot of time with them.”
2. SECURING THE BALL | School safety during games is of utter importance for Grosse Pointe North’s security guard, Colleen Koch, who decided to cheer on North for the night. “Normally I work and I thought I am still going to go because I participated, I know the coach, I bought the shirt, and I am a Norsemen,” Koch said.
3. GO GREEN AND YELLOW | Freshman Jessica Taylor appreciates the camaraderie between the fans and both teams as she supports the Norsemen with all the yellow and green at the basketball game. “I like that everyone is united, and we can just cheer on each other,” Taylor said.
4. WIN IT ALL | In North’s first home game, Junior McKayla Hastings, a member of the team’s Unified Basketball team, scored the game-winning basket for the team. “[I love] stealing,” Hastings said. “I wait for my moment to strike and then I steal from the easier players.”
5. HOPING HOOPERS | During Charity Week, the team competed in two home games where Student Association collected donations for Kids On The Go. Class of 2026 senator Lauren Loper gathered these donations for the non-profit program. “The charity provides summer camps for kids that have enrichment so that kids with special needs can really get involved in their community and learn new skills [that] help them develop,” Loper said.
6. KEEPING HIS HOOPS HIGH | Special education teacher at Parcells and North’s Unified Basketball coach, Drew Kisskalt values his players and wants them to feel dignity and a sense of belonging to the school community. “I’ve been a coach and a teacher for many years and all of my students and players are very special to me,” Kisskalt said. “But Unified Basketball is uniquely special in that it gives me the chance to be with students who don’t always have a full menu of options.”
By Madi Lucido COPY EDITOR
PHOTO | Alyssa King
The February cold was no match for the dedicated fans of Noah Kahan, and I was no exception. If it means seeing my favorite artist live, I would take on the four hour wait all over again. Noah Kahan is currently on his Stick Season tour, and he performed at The Fillmore Detroit on Feb. 10. After catching fame from his vulnerable indie-pop music, he began his tour, and the Detroit location sold out. After a long awaited, “Up next, fast pass admission,” my sister, friends and I rushed into the theater where we settled just feet away from the stage.
As we waited for the opener, I could not help but notice the beautiful architecture of the Fillmore lit up by green and blue lights. A projection of abstract figures was displayed across the back of the stage, creating an almost mystical environment. It was also a small venue compared to other arenas which naturally made the concert more casual and intimate.
Jack Vancleaf opened with five songs, which he humbly performed. As the crowd responded to his vocals with swaying flashlights, he could not hold back his smile. He perfectly fit the energy of the crowd as his songs were chill and sentimental, matching a similar vibe to Kahan’s albums with more of a country undertone. The album he performed, “Fruit from the Trees” is his most wellknown work which includes my favorite song of his, “Rattlesnake.” Vancleaf and his band were also ready for pictures and conversations at the end of the show, revealing how personable they really are. I did not know what to expect for the opening act considering I had not previously listened to him, but I walked away with five new songs added to my playlist.
After Vancleaf finished, the anticipation rose as everyone prepared for Kahan. When he made his way onto the stage the energy automatically elevated. Although the audience, including myself, was in awe of him, his simple outfit consisting of a black t-shirt and Carhartt overalls emulated his genuine personality which made him seem far more familiar. “False Confidence” was the perfect opening
song because of the upbeat chorus which the crowd sang word for word. This was particularly exciting to hear in person for my sister and I because of the many steering wheel drumming sessions we have conducted to this beat.
His upbeat songs were separated by his more emotional ones paused by explanations of their backgrounds. Although the stops were quick, I enjoyed his witty comments and stories that showed his humor which some may consider dark yet relatable. I personally appreciated seeing his personality through his chatting and singing during some songs more than others. “Homesick,” “Orange Juice” and “View Between Villages” felt the most personal and overflowed the theater with emotion and intensity. I noticed his excitement while singing the quicker songs, especially “Homesick,” which happens to be one of his favorite songs to perform. I do however think that his talent was mainly showcased during his slower songs. He occasionally added in additional notes which revealed his vocal range that got surprised reactions from the audience.
Unlike any other concert I have been to, there was little going on in the background and the band was highlighted almost as much as Kahan himself. With each member taking turns stepping into the spotlight, the four musicians got to solo their instruments. I loved hearing the banjo, specifically in “All My Love.” I have always thought it makes the song so unique. Pairing the faces and instruments to each part of the songs was really interesting to see because I have only ever pictured Kahan while listening to his music.
The overall performance, vibe and setting flawlessly aligned with Kahan’s simple music. The Fillmore, which was lit up by colored lights, created a comforting environment and shifted attention to his detailed songs and incredible voice. Other than the obligatory boyfriends dragged along, the crowd was full of fans who genuinely love his music. His candid personality along with all these other factors made it such a unique concert experience which I would give 5/5 stars.
By Bella Yoakam SECTION EDITOR
ILLUSTRATION | Bella Yoakam
Showcasing the color paired with St. Patrick's Day, this popcorn recipe balances a savory yet sweet flavor. The website, Taste of Home, provides easy and simple recipes for people to use over several holidays and occasions. After scrolling through many recipes, I decided to make this because it was one of the many offered salty yet sweet desserts that people often look for and enjoy. This recipe took approximately 20 minutes to complete and was very detailed. This St. Patrick's Day popcorn would be simple and enjoyable for bakers with all types of experience. Overall, I give this recipe 5/5 stars for being efficient and delicious.
There is no sight more tempting than a white folding table covered with nostalgic rainbow-colored boxed cookies. As a Girl Scout of 11 years, I have had my fair share of all the different cookie types. Though I have learned to sell just about any cookie, some flavors are significantly better than others. The right taste, both frozen and room temperature, aesthetic, and texture are critical components in judging Girl Scout cookies.
Thin Mints - The best 5/5
While the combination of mint and chocolate is debatable, the Thin Mint cookie has balanced it to perfection. I have never eaten a cookie as good as a frozen Thin Mint. The cookies come in sleeves and are packed tight so consumers will have the most cookies possible in their package. The Thin Mint cookie has a 10/10 flavor, with a perfect crunch, and to top it off freezability. A better cookie does not exist.
Tagalongs - Fan favorite 4.5/5
The chocolate peanut butter flavor is the perfect ratio and has a texture that is to die for. Nothing is better than a crunchy cookie with a soft center dipped in delicious chocolate. This cookie is truly a celebrity, unfortunately because of that they are always sold out.
Samoas - Doppelganger 4/5
The sweet combination of chocolate, caramel and coconut in a Samoa cookie will change your day for the better. It is both crunchy and chewy, and flavor-wise, the cookie tastes great. However, you could find a retailbrand Samoa with an identical flavor for much cheaper. Do-si-dos - The dependable cookie 3.5/5
While this may not be the first box of cookies I grab when strolling past a cookie booth, the Do-si-dos are still a great option. It is the perfect peanut butter flavor without being too sweet. While a little dry, one can argue they are just meant to be dunked in hot chocolate. Additionally, these cookies taste amazing frozen, or when pairing it with a hot drink.
Trefoils - The original 3.5/5
The first Girl Scout, Juliette Gordon Low, would be proud to see the Trefoil cookie standing strong. The classics are always crowd-pleasing and this cookie is no exception. The buttery flavor and texture leaves consumers wanting more, and the only flaw is that it is a little boring.
Toffee-tastics - Debatable 3/5
The Toffee-tastic cookie was released in 2016, creating a large controversy. The gluten-free cookie can be dry and hard to eat, but it is still great to dip into a hot beverage. It is not too sweet and has an okay toffee flavor. Having the gluten-free option is nice, but they do charge six dollars for half the amount in a normal box.
Lemon-Ups - Replaceable 2.5/5
A large Lemon-Up cookie with a not-so-extraordinary flavor does not compare to its predecessor, the Savvanah Smile. The lemon flavor is very light and the cookie itself is a complete downgrade if you have ever had the original lemon cookies. They have a nice inspirational message on each cookie, but it still does not excuse the bland lemon flavor.
S’mores - No bang for your buck 2/5
The classic flavor combo of marshmallow, chocolate and graham cracker is not even distinguishable in the S’mores cookie. This is a great example of a cookie with a straight sugar flavor. On the flip side, I do like sweet cookies so it was not the worst cookie of the day. The real downside is the small number of cookies you get for a heaping six dollars. I want s’more cookies.
Adventurefuls - The catfish 1/5
Despite the soft and fudgy-looking picture, the Adventureful cookie is hard and dry. This new cookie could not even brand itself nicely, with the beige box perfectly encapsulating the bland flavor. The only positive thing is that the box only has 16 cookies, so I do not have to eat a lot to finish the box.
This truffle is a flavorful and easy dessert that can be used for numerous occasions. To make this green dessert it requires just 5 different ingredients all of which are affordable and convenient. Simply Stacie provides easy recipes for anyone to make and ranges from breakfast to dinner. The truffle was refreshing and sweet, and the cool whip accompanied with the brownie was the perfect mix of flavors. Overall, I give this quick and tasty recipe 5/5 stars for the detailed directions and the helpful tips provided by Simply Stacie.
These mint chocolate pudding cookies will leave you wondering what else the website Butter with a Side of Bread features. This version of a cookie was delicious featuring a mint and chocolate flavor. Butter with a Side of Bread showcases many desserts and seasonal treats for each holiday as well as easy family recipes. As I browsed through their website I decided to make these cookies as they showcase St. Patrick's Day and also resemble a fan favorite girl scout cookie, the Thin Mint. This mint cookie recipe was precise and easy to understand. The easy prep and specific steps provided grants this recipe a deserving 5/5 stars.
The once dormant chess club is back in action. After the former president graduated last year, the club was unable to find a new adviser for the upcoming 2023 school year. This is when junior Basem Ali took action to reform the club starting with finding a new adviser. Ali approached building substitute teacher Donald Hightower to fill the position and from there the club formed and grew quickly.
With both Ali and Hightower having a love and passion for the game of chess, it was no issue to revamp the chess club. Once Ali was appointed the position of club president, members joined quickly.
“I started chess [club] because I’m very fond of chess,” Ali said. “I wanted to share my passion and help others learn a game that relates to life as a whole.”
Hightower and Ali have been a team throughout the process of beginning and running the chess club. Growing up, Hightower was a competitive chess player at the Detroit Institute of Arts. Both having an immense passion for chess made them the perfect duo, according to Ali.
“Mr. Hightower helped format the club by being as eager as me,” Ali said. “[He] helped push me to
PAWNS AND PALS | At their meetings, the chess club takes the time to teach everyone, and for club adviser Donald Hightower, it is important that the club is a space to learn and grow. “I invite anyone who is interested. We have all levels of learners in this space," Hightower said. “It is a learning space, it is not a competitive space.”
spread the word out quicker. Also, Mr. Hightower loved to play chess, [so] he knew the in and outs of the club.”
As a former chess player, Hightower was eager to help Ali as the adviser with the club and has been very involved with the club’s meetings. As a child, Hightower learned to play this “thinking man sport” from mentors such as his uncle. He reflects on how this board game has impacted his life now.
“[My mentors] always instilled in me the idea of thinking forward,” Hightower said. “Trying to understand that life might be just like a game of chess at times. Knowing how to maneuver any situation you are in could be beneficial for you in the long term.”
Hightower is now able to live out one of the opportunities he missed as he was unable to join the chess club when he was a student at North.
“Now I get to teach and learn because some of these students are better than me,” Hightower said. “I have a great time playing chess.”
After finding an adviser, all Hightower and Ali needed were members, and once they started coming, they did not stop.
“The chess club has grown expeditiously,” Ali said. “I couldn't even fathom the growth this quick and new people everyday telling me they want to join and they want to learn how to play. We love when people come and learn. That's the whole point of the club, to teach and learn.”
As the chess club grows in members, many new students have joined the club this year including junior Mac Graham. Graham mentions how he enjoys the relaxing and easy-going club culture.
“It’s not just about the board, it's about how people interact off the board and I would say that's where most of the fun comes from,” Graham said.
Every Monday after school, the club meets in room B315. When playing chess, the two players are able to use critical thinking skills in order to problem solve and compete against each other. With time to relax after a long school day and indulge in a board game, students are encouraged to spend quality time with one another.
“The social interactions you have in chess, and having to play a social game and a face-to-face game in today’s society is amazing,” Hightower said. “I want as many students as possible to have that experience.”
With a unique story line and a plethora of plot twists, “Layla” by Colleen Hoover will keep you on the edge of your seat. Freshman Amanda Wong is a dedicated Colleen Hoover fan, and out of all her novels, “Layla” is her favorite. “It is an interesting story, and it has a lot of good lessons in it,” Wong said. “I would recommend it to anyone who wants to start reading but hasn’t found a good book yet.”
“A Prayer for Owen Meany” by John Irving is a coming-of-age fiction story that takes place in the Vietnam War era. This novel was significant to science teacher Don Pata. “I joined the Peace Corps and I was put in a little village in the middle of West Africa,” Pata said. “There was a bookshelf left there by former Peace Corps volunteers, and the first book I read there was called ‘A Prayer for Owen Meany.’ It really moved me and it was the first time I really understood the power of reading.”
If you want an easy, binge worthy read, pick up “Twilight” by Stephenie Meyer. Junior Niya Kendall watched the movie adaptation prior to reading the book, but the novel eventually became her all-time favorite, and it proved to be better than the movie. “I decided to read the book not knowing it would be even better,” Kendall said. “It is my go to comfort book that I have re-read over and over.”
If you are searching for a fantasy novel mixed with Greek Mythology and endless adventure, look no further. “Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief” by Rick Riordan is the book for you. Sophomore Matthew Hetzler says this novel is his favorite. “The book manages to have a great balance between action and emotion along with really well written characters,” Hetzler said.
“Crescent City: House of Earth and Blood” by Sarah J. Maas is a murder mystery, fantasy, romance, dystopian and action novel all in one. Senior Addison Erickson always has a book in her hand, yet she says that this novel outshines all others. “It has absolutely phenomenal writing, jawdropping plot twists, an incredibly intriguing mystery plot line and high stakes action that makes you never want to put the book down,” Erickson said. “I have re-read just the ending over six times because it gives me chills.”
“The Glass Castle,” a memoir by Jeannette Walls is a coming of age story filled with notes of childhood trauma and familial complexities. As an English teacher, Kristen Alles has read many books and typically prefers fiction novels, but “The Glass Castle” is an exception. “I think the devices used were more fictional devices, [as] there was a lot of imagery, a lot of figurative language and it felt really narrative,” Alles said. “The way it was written really captivated me as a typically more fiction-based reader.”
By Jo Jackson & Mary Bentley
WEB EDITOR & STAFF REPORTER
CLEVER WITH CLAY | While some people shy away from clay because it's frustrating to work with, that is not the case for senior Claire Schultz, who enjoys working with it. “You can make basically whatever you want,” Schultz said. “If you want to make something functional, you can, if you want something more sculptural, I feel like I can just create whatever I want with it.”
MAKING ART AND FRIENDS | Finding friends can sometimes be a challenge, but for freshman Miles Tranchida, he knew just where to look. “I did not have many friends or at least not have as many friends with the same interests as me,” Tranchida said. “So I decided to join Art Club because I thought maybe I can make some friends who would have the same interests.”
GIFTED GETAWAY | Art isn’t just a form of expression for sophomore Grace Waterstradt, it also acts as a sanctuary to distract her from life. “I enjoy it a lot just because it’s fun but it also sometimes acts as an escape from problems I may be feeling or just something I generally enjoy,” Waterstradt said.
a young age, sophomore Juno
has always shown an interest in art and tried to improve her skills. “When I was little I loved watching cartoons so I would draw all the time, making my own characters, and progressing my art style along the way,” Buckman said.
707 Vernier Road, Grosse Pointe Woods, MI 48236
PHOTO | Sasha Poradun
