GRAPHIC | Annabelle Julien
The school board has recently tasked a group of administrators with identifying $3 million in budget reductions by asking them to find places where district spending can be cut or reduced. Some of these cuts include reducing the amount of color copies printed, eliminating secretarial positions and reducing custodial and maintenance staff in certain district buildings.
The potential cuts also may impact students in the band and orchestra programs due to a decrease in yearly funding for instruments. Although the decision is not final, Superintendent Dr. Jon Dean says the group of administrators has proposed to not purchase new instruments for the next school year.
“Every year for the last six years we have been spending at least $100,000 on buying new instruments for the district,” Dean said. “We have been talking about not doing that refresh for next year. Students would still have instruments [and] those sorts of things, but we would not be buying new ones.”
Without being able to replenish and repair instruments, Director of Bands Tom Torrento worries students will no longer be motivated to come to school or participate in school activities.
said. “Renting a low brass instrument is definitely very costly, ranging from $300 to $800 just to rent one for the year from a music shop. I was unable to rent [one there], so it was really helpful to rent from the school for free.”
Not being able to provide instruments for students to rent could cause issues for the band and orchestra programs, according to Torrento. He says the band program’s recent growth could be negatively impacted with these potential cuts in addition to adding hardships to the current students involved.
“While we have been fortunate to have this money for the last four years, inflation has climbed and made it more difficult to acquire everything we truly need,” Torrento said. “Without this funding, in my opinion, we will struggle to fill instrumentation in a balanced manner as the program continues to grow.”
I met with the Grosse Pointe Foundation for Public Education. That is a charitable group that supports our school district, and they are thinking about other options and ways they may be able to help us next year.
DR. JON DEAN GPPSS SUPERINTENDENT“I can personally attest to at least two families in the last year who have chosen to stay in the GP school system over attending private schools because of our arts program and our athletics,” Torrento said. “If we can spend millions of dollars on turf fields, then asking for $100,000 a year to support programs that cater to hundreds of students in every building should not be too large an ask.”
In addition to student participation, financial burdens on students and their families is another concern surrounding the budget changes. Many students rent their instruments from the district if they cannot purchase their own. Senior and band member Maddie Loporto has rented her instrument for years and worries how the budget cuts will impact this.
“I play [the] euphonium, [and] I have rented it from the school ever since 5th grade,” LoPorto
In addition, senior and band member Helen Aouad worries the band program could potentially have another decline in numbers going forward. She says that reducing the number of instruments gives students less opportunities, which could hinder student growth.
“The rate of kids enrolling to play instruments will decrease once the instruments are no longer able to be loaned out,” Aouad said. “The program in recent years has rampantly built its numbers back up after COVID-19, but I am afraid such intense budget cuts will send the enrollment plummeting.”
Through communication with the school board, Dean says his group has been listening to feedback and will make changes based on the recommendations until the budget is finalized in June of this year. Dean also says he is continuing to reach out to various groups to help make these changes less damaging for the people and programs in the district.
“I met with the Grosse Pointe Foundation for Public Education,” Dean said. “That is a charitable group that supports our school district, and they are thinking about other options and ways they may be able to help us next year.”
Nearly two and a half years ago the previous presidential administration threatened to ban TikTok in the United States if it did not break away from its Chinese owners. Now, a bipartisan group of senators has introduced a bill to ban TikTok. Senators have expressed concerns that the app could be infiltrated by the Chinese government to spy on American users or gain access to U.S. user data. However, researchers who have looked into the possible foreign threats TikTok poses, emphasize that the app is not much different from other social networks in terms of the data it collects or how it communicates with company servers. While there is no direct evidence of Chinese interference, there are still some government officials with reservations over TikTok’s connection to the Chinese government.
Although the security of its users is currently up for debate, math co-department chair Eric Vanston points out that other social media platforms also engage with similar practices, and he suggests creating greater privacy protection across all platforms. While not in favor of an outright ban on TikTok, Vanston believes social media as a whole needs to be looked at critically.
“I do see a need for stronger regulations on technology and social media,” Vanston said. “While [social media platforms] bring some positives to our society, I think they also have many negative characteristics.”
The U.S. government has planned to ban the app because of its possible spying and private data collection. However, Michigan State University Juris Doctor candidate Elizabeth Pentikis believes that TikTok does not collect any different forms of information, compared to other social media platforms.
“I think a lot of the controversy around TikTok comes from the fact that it is owned by a foreign company, not that it is collecting data that is different or more dangerous than other social media sites,” Pentikis said.
Despite the debates over the dangers TikTok possibly holds, users still keep scrolling through the app. TikTok is a place where people have the freedom to express themselves openly, according to sophomore Cara Kaslatas who believes this app contributes to a feeling of community and appreciates the gratification it brings.
“I think a lot of people would be upset [if TikTok was banned],” Kaslatas said. “Having something you can go home to, knowing it is there to help you unwind and distress from the day gives a sense of comfort.”
The Michigan House of Representatives passed a bill to abolish the state's current A-F letter grading system for all public schools on March 21st by a 63-45 majority.
This now prompts the question of what the new system will look like. State lawmakers have proposed a new approach using the school index system, known as the total index system, which has a range from 0-100 and is based on students' learning.
When the bill was initially proposed in 2018, there was a disagreement surrounding whether it would have any effect on schools. With this in mind, freshman Peter Moe feels that the new bill may result in changes in grading procedures and concern for schools to be in the 100 range.
“I think it might drive up some teachers grading, but to a point, because the schools want to maintain the highest grades possible and every school will try to become an ‘A’ school,” Moe said. “Because of that, there will be a significant pressure for an average grade to be near the 100 range.”
Moreover, TikTok has been criticized for promoting harmful cultural trends and behaviors, yet Pentikis points out that the app has the potential to have a positive impact on the community, but believes its current capacity is more negative.
“Social media sites have the ability to evolve into really current and fast breaking news sources as users can share an event they are experiencing or their points of views instantly,” Pentikis said. “However, TikTok is still a little too commercial with the heavy influencer use and advertising model. It is almost too commercial to be beneficial.”
The growing number of bans on the popular app have led many to question the security of TikTok. While one could point to TikTok’s possible Chinese influence as cause for concern, others believe the lack of privacy protection on social media is a bigger and more pressing matter. The repercussions of future bans are still unknown, but the possibility of a federal ban has led to relevant debates about privacy and the influence of foreign countries on social media.
“I think social media sites should be more transparent about what data they collect so users can make their own informed decisions about [whether] they feel comfortable sharing it,” Pentikis said.
While Moe believes schools might fear the new proposal, science teacher Christopher Trepanowski hopes that the bill will be a constructive change and anticipates that it will become a more efficient system for everyone.
“I am not super well versed in all of the intricacies of the new system, but anytime you are grading and assessing, there is always room for changing the way that you do things,” Trepanowski said. “I am hoping that with the new system it will be a more streamlined approach and more easily accessible.”
In addition to Trepanowski's hopes of change for the better in the new system, Moe also hopes the new system will improve students’ stress related to grades, leading to better overall school performance.
“I think one important thing that the A-F grading system does is stagger students, [meaning] the difference in overall academic performance,” Moe said. “[That is] important for college admissions, due to the presence of standardized testing and needing for there to be more equitable systems. In addition to this, depending on the teachers, it can become a negative grading system based on grade inflation.”
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“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
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
Sofia Gualdoni
Lauren Kaled
Stephanie Karoutsos
Lilly Kline
Troy Lipscomb
Allie Mattes
Allie McIntyre
Sasha Poradun
Gianna Roux
Mia Schultz
Lauren Veitengruber
Hayley Zalewski
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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Faculty Adviser: Allison Dunn
Practically every senior has been faced with the age-old question, “Where are you going for college?”
The pressure to have an answer can only increase once students start talking with their peers who have confidently made a choice. Hardly anything rivals the pressure students put onto themselves. The desire of crafting the perfect essay, getting into a prestigious, big name college or earning impressive scholarships, all can be worn like a shiny badge of honor—evidence of years of work. But why should we feel rushed to make a decision that can so heavily impact our future? Having to juggle going in or out of state, choosing a path of study or qualifying for loans and everything in between are all choices made with fingers crossed hoping that the pieces will fall into place.
There are many aspects that complicate decision making for students. The daunting cloud of student debt can deter students from picking a college, or the educational appeal of that school can reel them in. Others may go right into the workforce, but are unfamiliar with how to properly manage
to getting a degree? Or head off to explore another state or country? Making that choice for oneself at such a young age can often make students feel ashamed and disappointed if they don’t know the right answer for themselves. Psychologytoday.com indicates that the brain is not fully developed until the age of 25, so who’s to say the final decision of the 17 or 18 year old is the right one?
While it is impossible to avoid significant decision making throughout life, the pressures of deciphering right from wrong for our future is immense. We are not granted the luxury of infinite time to make decisions, after all, it would likely just be another stressor of falling behind if you don’t. However, in the midst of all the pressures, it boils down not to where you go, but what you do with where you go. Allow yourself to be forgiving and learn from your mistakes, let trial and error happen. As much as we would love to just run and hide from making these big decisions for ourselves, seeing it through is ultimately where we can truly learn what is right for us, and what is not.
By Mary Bentley & Stephanie Karoutsos STAFF REPORTERS
Many students arrive at college with the intention of making new friendships and gaining independence for themselves. Attending college out-of-state can help students find this independence, experience a fresh culture and provide new career opportunities. There is no denying that out-of-state college can be frightening, as it can be difficult adjusting to a new environment without your family or old friends around you. But, branching out to new places when you can is an opportunity that is important to take advantage of.
Broadening your options of schools allows you to consider different institutions and programs that may not be offered at a school in your state. A school in your home state may not have the right combination of size, surrounding area, majors, professors and other preferences specific to your liking. If you are not able to find what you are looking for near your home area it is best to branch out and widen your search for options.
Along with more career opportunities being opened up, independence and facing a new environment are other factors that are a pro of attending college out-of-state. College out-of-state can change an individual and force them to develop more maturity because they
Many people dream of escaping their hometown to experience new places and people, but staying instate can keep you connected to your previous emotional support system during the tough transition to college.
Staying in-state is also a good financial choice for those who would like to graduate debt-free. For example the average outof-state tuition of University of Michigan per year is $72,153 vs. the $33,555 price tag for in-state students. Staying in-state allows you to experience different parts of your state, and graduate with less debt. Out-of-state prices leave students who already have a tight budget to sink into debt over a fouryear degree.
are able to apply to colleges that are top in your intended major, explore different majors you may be considering or just find a school that offers differing aspects than a school in your state.
near their support system during the difficult transition from high school to college.
Staying in-state can provide similar experiences to those living out-of-state with a reduced cost. You will meet new people, have new experiences and graduate with less debt than out of state students. So in the long run, you will be just as successful as everyone else, and be able to start your post-college life instead of working to pay off your student loans.
FRESHMAN ANTHONY
JOHNSON: “I am looking forward to most utilizing the separate room for beverages and refreshments. I like to get hot cocoa in [between] classes because it tastes wonderful and cozy and gets me prepared for the next class.”
SOPHOMORE CHRISTOPHER O'CONNELL: “Having a quiet space to work on homework and read books without any disturbances from any more rowdy people.”
JUNIOR JULIA LIAGRE: “I'm most looking forward to utilizing the flexible and unique seating. Having a comfortable but interesting place to sit while I work makes me feel more motivated and comfortable.”
SENIOR FINN MARSHALL: "Just coming [to the library] during tutorial to have a nice and quiet space to do homework, study, and relax on the new chairs.”
COUNSELING SECRETARY MARY SOCIA: “The good selection of books and having a nice and wonderful space to enjoy in the library.”
By Sofia Gualdoni & Lauren Veitengruber STAFF REPORTERS
Ever since he was invited to take photos on a rowing boat, sophomore Michael Roustemis became passionate about the sport. The team Roustemis rows for, the Detroit Boat Club, runs through the district and surrounding schools, giving students in the community a chance to participate in a sport that many schools do not offer. According to Roustemis, everyone gets along and makes the team the best it can be.
“I feel like we have grown a lot,” Roustemis said. “Last year was pretty tough. There was a lot of stuff going on with the team, but this year, we got through spring training and now everyone is feeling pretty connected. We are all good sports with each other.”
This year, the team’s goal is to make it to Nationals. Roustemis says that as long as everyone coordinates behind the scenes, their performance in the boats will get them there.
“Everyone has to have good chemistry,” Roustemis said. “No one can be mad at each other because it is the greatest team sport. You all have to work together or else the boat will not move.”
Since her freshman year, junior Lauren Shipe has been an active member of the sailing team at North. Unlike DBC Rowing, the sailing team is not combined with other schools, but they occasionally practice with Liggett and South. This has provided unique experiences and new friendships for Shipe.
“I like that we get to work with other schools too, it is a good way to meet new people,” Shipe said. “I enjoy the different kinds of people that sail and the inside jokes we all have.”
There are many different roles on the team, but they are all equally vital to the success of the boat, according to Shipe. Operating a sailboat requires a skipper, who drives the boat while handling the mainsail, and there must be a crew who takes on the front sail and extra tasks. Shipe shifts between these roles and highlights the importance of always being ready to assist.
“The crew and skipper have to work together on a boat and have to understand what is going on on the water and need to be able to help each other out,” Shipe said.
THE RIVALRY CONTINUES | Although they practice together, there is still some tension between the North and South sailing teams, according to junior co-captain Kate Bania. “We also practice with the Liggett team and they have like four people,” Bania said. “ The South team is also there and they have like 20 [sailors]. There is definitely some rivalry.”
Before the season began, the sailing team posted flyers around the halls in an effort to spread the word about their team and increase their numbers. With nine sailors on the team, they are trying to recruit as many new sailors as possible, and have gained four new members this season. In order to better simulate real race situations, they practice with Liggett and South’s sailing team, and attend regattas together in order to share a coach boat.
The increase in membership means only about half the team has previously sailed. Despite this learning curve, the newcomers have proved to be a beneficial addition to the team, according to junior Nick Williams.
“This year our goal was mainly to bring up our team size and get more people on the water and at races,” Williams said. “Coming with the large amount of newer sailors we had to teach people who have never touched the boats, but it has been a fun experience.”
Although most of the team members are new, Coach Dan Klassen notes that it has given the knowledgeable sailors an opportunity to share what they have learned. He emphasizes that many of the older members are both teachers and teammates on and off of the water.
“It is awesome to have these new additions,” Klassen said. “Having such a diverse group is challenging, but I feel it empowers the sailors who do have prior knowledge to share it with the new sailors.”
Having a smaller team compared to other schools means every member, including junior cocaptain Kate Bania, plays a crucial role in assisting the team. According to Bania, communication is essential for success, as well as being able to have fun with teammates.
“My favorite part about sailing is getting to know everyone on the team and learning how to sail,” Bania said. “I did not know how [to sail] when I first started and it has been really fun learning every part of it, [as] there are a lot of different aspects.”
Each sailor is dependent on each other. Klassen emphasizes that a skipper and a crew must be constantly communicating and making decisions on the water together to be successful.
“I feel every sailor brings something to the team,” Klassen said. “There is no individual component, there is a skipper and a crew, and their success is a combination of their efforts.”
PHOTOS | Lilly Kline
1. LOAD ‘EM UP | While loading the racing shells before a race, captain Carly Brown enters a competitive mindset feeling excited. “My favorite experiences with the team are when we are at regattas,” Brown said. “It’s so exciting racing as well as helping and cheering teammates on.”
2. CHAMPIONSHIP CULTURE | A positive team culture is something that senior Ryleigh O’Donoghue believes is essential in creating a successful and supportive group of rowers. “We try to create an environment that everyone feels welcome to work their hardest in and have fun,” O’Donoghue said.
3. IN A ROW | Freshman rower Addie Hall sees the importance of having a strong team bond to work through the challenges that come with a race. “The most challenging part of rowing is being in time with everyone, everyone communicating and being in unison,” Hall said.
4. ALL ASHORE | When the team is not in the water, captain Carly Brown says that they still train hard on machines that are utilized to perfect their technique. “The most challenging parts of rowing are the days when we can go on the water, but don’t because of erg testing,” said Brown.
5. COACH’S PROMISE | As the head coach of the rowing team, Mike Gentile works with the rowers day in and day out to make sure they are ready for their weekend races and competitions later in the season. “We usually have four to five [competitions] per season and then compete at a Midwest championship and then a national championship,” Gentile said.
After being closed since the beginning of the school year to allow renovations to be made to the space, the school library is now back open for students to enjoy. With the adjustments that were made, such as knocking down and repainting some of the walls and purchasing new furniture, the library now has more room for more students to collaborate and study.
Despite the challenges that she says were brought forth by the temporary library, school librarian Amanda Pata believes that more students have started to check back into the space.
“I think just having the big space back we are seeing students who spent a lot of time here prerenovation have started to come back,” Pata said. “They stopped coming when it was just a double classroom because they didn’t have as much of an open area. Being able to sit by a window and see what’s going on outside makes a big difference to some students.”
Likewise, library assistant Renee Borowicz also notices more students spending time in the newly renovated space. With the renovations also came a new entrance to the library, now located on the south side of the B-building, which Borowicz believes has contributed to an increase in student visitors throughout the school day.
“I think a lot of students are stopping by to see the library, especially [since] we have the new entrance where everybody can see the library,” Borowicz said. “So a lot of students are stopping
by and they are really impressed. They look around and they love the way everything looks.”
The new entrance has brought students such as senior Grace Korkmaz to view the changes. Korkmaz believes that the renovation was much needed and the new library will now be able to offer more services to students as well as a quiet place to take advantage of inside the building.
“The new library offers me a calm space to get work done, read a book and just hang out,” Korkmaz said. “It also allows me to have flexible seating options no matter what business I am there for. The library in general gives a space for student collaboration, as well as an environment dedicated to learning.”
Similar to Korkmaz, freshman William Murray also sees benefits in the new changes made to the library. Murray believes that the new renovation and open concept of the space allows for more students to have a relaxing place to reside during school hours.
“The removal of the unused walls between the unused rooms allows for this more open plan for the library that I really liked,” Murray said. “It makes it a more comfortable space in the morning for doing work. It helps put me in the right mindset to do homework or take a test there.”
With the updated and open floor plan of the library comes the opportunity for additional tables and chairs to be added to the empty areas. This creates more space for seating that students can use independently or when working
together as a group. Korkmaz emphasizes the benefits of these tables that she believes many students may overlook.
“Something that should be taken more advantage of is the white board tables that we have because they are a great way to illustrate ideas to everyone at the table, as well as try out certain ideas or thoughts for yourself,” Korkmaz said.
Because of the features, old and new, that students are now able to utilize in the renovated library, such as books, quiet spaces and group work spaces, Borowicz believes that students will be able to receive tremendous benefits from the updated space.
“The library in general benefits the students,” Borowicz said. It can be a space where you can work quietly, or work as a group. We have technology and then we have lots of books where kids who love to read can do research projects from.”
Additionally, Pata also recognizes the benefits that students can receive through attending the library. Through the wide variety of services that the updated library has to offer, Pata hopes to see more students utilizing all of the new features in the innovative space.
“We want to make sure that we have students come in whenever they have open time,” Pata said. “I think students who have been here have started to use the spaces but not all students have been in to see everything yet.”
1. LENDING A HAND | Sophomore Angelina Vasilos emphasizes her appreciation for the librarians’ willingness to help, which she says is never up for question.“I was there a couple of days ago and it was just so relaxing [with] everyone there to help if you need it,” Vasilos said. “They help me with problems on my computer and then they always help me to find new strategies to help me complete my work.”
2. SAFE HAVEN | With so many new features, the library has transformed in many ways. However, for senior Ed Maguill, the library still holds the same productive atmosphere. “I think the library is good for students because it is a place you can go before school if you are there early,” Magill said. “It is also a good place to get important work done, because it tends to be quieter than most classes.”
3. CHECKING IT OUT | Compared to the limited book selection showcased in the temporary library, the updated space offers a variety of choices, which is something that sophomore Brandon Hughes takes advantage of. “It is much bigger, [with] more books and a much bigger variety,” Hughes said. “It gives me more learning opportunities and more access to books that I never would have looked at before.”
4. ENDLESS OPPORTUNITIES | The library is a space that has potential for collaboration and creativity. Librarian Amanda Pata says that she advocated for the renovations to include areas where students can produce innovative projects through the green room. “If students have ideas for creating videos for classes or if they have assignments that they are working on, [they] could [benefit from the] use of the green screen,” Pata said.
5. CARE AND CAFFEINE | Not only does the library contain books and a variety of seating, but it harbors many items that librarian Amanda Pata says will benefit students. She emphasizes that the newly added “Care” Room provides essentials for students, including coffee. “We had our cafe on two media carts for the last few years and those lived by the circulation desk.” Pata said. “Kids came in and kind of counted on space for caffeine or something more to drink. We wanted to really build a space around what students need.”
6. COLLABORATION STATION | In an attempt to optimize conversation areas for students to work together, the library has added several new pieces of furniture. The newly added seating provides a beneficial workspace, which junior Kendahl Watts says that she readily uses. “It’s a lot of groups and a lot of seats that are next to each other [now], so usually when you come in you’re usually sitting next to someone,” Watts said. “In my case, me and my friend usually sit next to each other and help each other out on different things.”
By Ella McCarthy
After being closed for a number of months for renovations, Saint Clair Shores ice cream shop Modern Cone came back with not just a new interior, but new menu items as well. Right when you walk in, you are greeted with an overall brighter environment of pinks and grays on the walls and booths, as well as eyecatching neon signs. I liked the replacement of their old table and chair set up with new, classic booths that have a pink and cream color combination. My favorite part of the renovation had to be the double bowtie cone light fixtures on the walls, as they look just like ice cream cones, which I love. Once I sat down to enjoy some ice cream with my friend, I found myself looking around and enjoying the interior just as much. Aside from the renovations, the treats were delicious, the staff was kind and helpful and the overall price was just about $20 for all four items, so we had a great experience. Overall, I would rate Modern Cone 4/5 stars.
One of the menu items that caught my eye was their classic ice cream stacker. After looking through the options, my friend and I decided on their “I Want S’more” stacker. While ordering at the counter, their friendly staff gave us the option of hard scoop or soft serve, and we could pick our flavor. We chose a hard scoop of vanilla to which they then added chocolate syrup, crushed graham crackers and mini marshmallows. However, I think I would have preferred bigger pieces of graham crackers as well as marshmallow fluff instead to add some texture interest. It was otherwise a good pick, and I would rate it 3.5/5 stars.
Once I was in the store and saw their Reese’s cookie, I just had to add it to the mix. The staff asked if I had a preference out of the batch as well as if I wanted it warmed or not. I would soon come to thank myself for asking to get it warmed because it made it perfect. The cookie had an ideal texture and flavor, and having it with the coffee was such a good combination. I would definitely get this again without hesitation, so I confidently give it 5/5 stars.
One of the new additions to their menu is an affogato, which is ice cream with espresso poured over it. My friend and I could not get enough of this. The two flavors together make for such a great combination. If you are a coffee and ice cream lover, I can confidently say this would be a dream. Next time I go back, this 5/5 star item is definitely what I will be getting.
Considering coffee was a new addition, I decided to get a regular coffee as well. They have options for both hot and cold brew. It was very good and went really well with the Reese’s cookie that I got. However, I wish they had more options for creamers and addins than just half and half, so I would give it 4/5 stars.
From the small screen of my old Nintendo Gameboy, to the big screen of movie theaters everywhere, Super Mario Bros. has come a long way. “The Super Mario Bros. Movie” hit the theater on April 5, bringing the classic and wellloved video game to life. This movie is sure to be a hit with children who play the newest Mario games, like Super Mario 3D world, teenagers who played Mario Kart and adults who played the original Super Mario Bros. game that was released in 1985.
The movie begins with brothers Mario and Luigi who are upstarting their plumbing business. Their job as plumbers gives them the perfect gateway to get from the real world to the world of Toad, Princess Peach and Bowser. Mixed in with the normal pipes they are repairing, there are recognizable green pipes from the games. The brothers are sucked into the pipes and from there the story begins.
the challenge, exactly how he would in the game. Later on, all of the main characters, including Donkey Kong and Cranky Kong, ride their Karts on the one and only Rainbow Road, recognizable to any Mario Kart fan.
On top of this, the plot, which primarily consisted of Mario, Toad and Peach on a mission to save the kingdom from Bowser, kept my attention. The movie was short and sweet so I did not get bored, despite it technically being a kids movie. While most of the characters were portrayed on screen exactly how I had imagined them, my only aversion towards the movie is that some of the characters' voices were not what I had imagined. For example, Mario’s classic Italian accent from the game was not reciprocated on the screen. However, I would still wholeheartedly recommend this movie to anyone who has played a Super Mario Bros. game in the past or still does now, and I rate it 5/5 stars.
Travis Coffee Shop is located on Greater Mack Ave in St. Clair Shores, and they have a great brunch selection at a relatively cheap price. I got the two egg special which comes with two eggs cooked your way, a choice of meat, toast and jam. I got all of that along with an orange juice for only $7. Along with Travis’ great low prices, they have amazing service and a casual environment, perfect for a quick and easy brunch. Since Travis’ food is relatively cheap, I would not say it is the best quality. The food is on the greasier side, but you are getting what you pay for. With all things considered I would give Travis Coffee Shop 3/5 stars.
The Yolk Brunch House has a very diverse menu ranging from buttermilk pancakes to breakfast wraps. I ended up getting the breakfast wrap and a juice for a little over $9, which is about the average price for a good breakfast. The Yolk has an old school diner look and is such a welcoming environment. Located in Saint Clair Shores, I would recommend the yolk for anyone who particularly loves a savory breakfast and a homey environment. The fairly priced food and great service is what puts this place over the top and earns it 5/5 stars.
The movie successfully brought me back to my childhood of playing Super Mario Bros. and Mario Kart. The first way this was done was through the sound effects used throughout the movie and the soundtrack. The music from the game was present in the film, but remixed to be more exciting and to differ from the game. The colorful graphics and the incredible details in the world of Super Mario Bros. presented beautifully on the big screen. In a scene where Mario is attempting to complete a parkour course, he must hop to the top of the flagpole and slide down when he completes
The Jagged Fork is a very popular brunch spot in Grosse Pointe, and has anything and everything on their menu from crepes, to loaded skillets and Jagged Fork specials. Although they have a lot to offer, it does not come cheap. I got the Veggie Skillet and a juice for a little over $17. Besides being a little pricey, the Jagged Fork has a couple minor downsides, mainly being the very limited parking, small dining space and long wait times. But do not let those things discourage you, the long wait and little availability just proves their food is worth the hype. All in all I give the Jagged Fork 4 /5 stars.
By Grace Cueter & Grace Rossman EDITOR-IN-CHIEF & MANAGING EDITOR
Spreading soil, sprinkling seeds, monitoring growth, harvesting greens and packaging products are all skills that students in the special needs classrooms at North have acquired through their microgreens project. With the help of their teachers, the students have been able to grow broccoli, radish, kohlrabi and cabbage to sell around the Grosse Pointe community.
The microgreens project has served as a continuous activity for both the students and teachers involved. Special needs teacher Carol Holmes says that the process has allowed her students to show the community what they are capable of, while learning at the same time.
“It is difficult to find ‘jobs’ for my students, so having this opportunity is fantastic,” Holmes said. “It gives us the chance to share what we do with the North family for now.”
The students are hands-on during the entire process, from planting the seeds to harvesting the fully grown microgreens. Once harvested, the greens are ready to be washed and packaged for sale, and
the students, including senior Aijalon Fernanders, deliver the packages to buyers.
“[My favorite part] was planting them and letting them grow to see how they got tall,” Fernanders said. “I really liked the process because it [teaches] the kids how to do things and grow stuff, and that was really fun.”
The whole project has provided countless benefits for the students, according to North speech therapist Amy Koontz, who has helped throughout the microgreen process. Koontz has seen how the project has allowed the students to grow both educationally and emotionally.
“Microgreens allow our students to learn important life skills, produce nutritional food and see the fruit of their labors in a short amount of time,” Koontz said. “Having our students interacting with all members of the school builds community and teaches important life skills which prepares them to be active members of our community now and post high school.”
The project materials were purchased through grant money that the classrooms received. Currently,
once the growing and harvesting process is completed, the microgreens are sold for $2 per ounce. Koontz notes that sales will not only help the students to interact with members of the school community, it will also provide funds for the classrooms.
“Our start-up money was generously donated through a grant from The Family Center of Grosse Pointe and Harper Woods,” Koontz said. “Any profit will be used toward community-based instruction field trips or supplies that support these activities.”
Because of the success and benefits of the microgreens project, Holmes says that it will be repeated in the future. She hopes to grow their product by increasing the number of microgreens that they produce, and she is happy that her students have been able to enjoy the process.
“Growing microgreens is something that the students can be successful at and it is fun for them,” Holmes said. “Next year, we’d like to plant more trays so that we have more microgreens to harvest and package.”
LOVING TOUCH | To show gratitude to the person who he says works hard all year round, senior Kyle Armbruster hand-makes a card for his mom, with colorful decorations and sentimental messages. “My mom loves the homemade cards because it’s authentic and unique and I put my special loving touch on it,” Armbruster said.
MAMA MIA | Mother's Day meals are a great way to show appreciation to hardworking moms, according to senior Alex Agius. Agius and his family love taking their mom to her favorite Italian restaurant, Roman Village, to celebrate her.“My mom does so much for me so I think it’s the least I can do to make sure she knows she’s very much appreciated,” Agius said.
HOME SWEET HOME | Staying home, watching movies and cooking dinner together is tradition for senior Dodi Forir and his mom. Mother’s Day allows Forir to spend more time with her. “She likes to be at home and chill with me," Forir said. "We both really like our house and like to spend time in it. If we're feeling a little out of the box we will go for a nice walk and look at houses."
FROM THE HEART | Something meaningful from a loved one is always appreciated on Mother's Day, according to English teacher Kristen Alles. Alles finds her daughter's cards to be truly unique and their own, which is why she says they are meaningful. “I love the freedom kids have to be creative in a card that they can design, write and decorate themselves,” Alles said. “It comes from the heart and that means the most.
COOKED WITH LOVE | Quality time is very important to freshman Joelle Latta, and her favorite way to spend time with her mom on Mother’s Day is to cook her mom a special meal. “We like to cook her steak bites, potatoes and asparagus but we always make this special sauce we call zip sauce,” Latta said. “It’s her favorite. There is a lot of meaning to this meal because it’s fancier than our usual dinners.”
FRESH FLOWERS, FRESH SMILES |
Whether it is a nice bouquet of flowers or a homemade painting, junior Ava Smarch always tries to get her mom a gift on Mother's Day to show her appreciation. For Smarch, taking the trip to the store to buy fresh flowers is a good way to thank her mom for all that she does for her. “I always want to get a gift for my mom because she
ALL ABOUT MOM | Making the most out of Mother’s Day, freshman Linda Soosick treats her mom with acts of affection. She buys gifts, shows love and offers a little help around the house. “Me, my brother and my dad buy her flowers and cards and make sure she has a fun day,” Soosick said.
HOMEMADE AT HEART | Being a mom herself, English teacher Jillian Mcdonald says she has received a handful of Mother’s Day gifts. However, she emphasizes that homemade gifts have her heart. Mcdonald explains that it is the little things that matter, and that a simple poem or card can have such a big impact on a mom's life. “I prefer homemade gifts because they are things my kids actually made that mean something to them and they are so proud of their creations,” McDonald said. “It made me so happy because I know the time when my daughter is little is so limited, and I just love her so much that I love having little mementos of her from all her different ages.”
INSTRUCTIONS | Cut along the dashed line and tape the ends to create a free, handmade Mother's Day bouquet.
EARLY HOURS | Arriving at school early, main office secretary Anne Coates has much to do in the morning and helps others in office as they get ready for the day. “I have to be set in place before things start happening,” Coates said. “I have three screens that I have to set up, I [pull] up things like doctors notes that kids send me [and] I try to help Mrs. Tocco with the substitutes that come in every morning.”
EARLY BIRD GETS THE WORM | Not everyone likes to get up and go to school early to do work. However, senior Tatum Bastien finds that getting up and starting her day by checking off items on her to-do list has had a positive effect on the rest of her day. “I think it is a benefit to come early because I start my day out being productive,” Bastien said.
SAME SPOT | Sitting with friends is part of freshman Molly Lau’s morning routine. Meeting by the window each morning around 7:10 a.m., Lau spends time with her friends, as she does not see them much during the school day. “We usually hang around the same spot because we all know where it is,” Lau said. “It is also out of the way of classes, so we don't risk bothering teachers or students.”
MORNING MARIO | Outside the second floor stairwell is where junior Mac Graham sets up to play ‘Super Smash Brothers Ultimate’. Twice a week, Graham arrives at school early with a friend to play on his Nintendo Switch. “It's a good start to my day and sets a positive tone when I can play,” Graham said.
RESTOCK AND REPLENISH | As a part of Student Association, senior Paige Spence often begins her mornings by carrying snacks from Student Activities Director Peggy Bonbrisco’s car to the student union. “Whenever we're running out of stock in the union, Mrs. Bon will usually send us a text letting the Student Association know she needs help, and whoever is available gets to school a little early,” Spence said.
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707 Vernier Road, Grosse Pointe Woods, MI 48236
PHOTO ILLUSTRATION | Katie Madigan & Elly Meteer
