Black & Gold Quarterly (BGQ) - May 2025

I SPY... GRADUATION!

Black & Gold Quarterly

MAY TWO THOUSAND AND TWENTY FIVE

Editor's note: Eliana '25

From my first year in the BGQ, I planned on someday holding the title of Editorin-Chief. By my senior year, my dream had come true, only I’ve gotten the privilege to cooperate with my lovely friend, Bridget. This year has been a wild ride, but it has been one that I have thoroughly enjoyed. I’ve met so many amazing people and I couldn’t be more grateful for them.

For my senior issue, we wanted to make it 2000s nostalgia themed to reference the childhoods shared by the Class of 2025. Content-wise, we wanted to focus on both sports and other interests. For sports, we feature soccer (pgs. 8 & 9), hockey (pgs. 10-11), tennis (pgs. 14-15), etc. For our general features, we have various musiccentered features (pgs. 24-30) and other miscellaneous subjects. We also have our infamous College List (pgs. 20-22) that illustrates whatI and my fellow graduates will be up to after we graduate.

This has been one of the most difficult issues to produce. There are countless moving parts involved and I couldn’t be more proud of the amazing writers in our class. They are so great at what they do, and I’m so grateful for all that they’ve done. Additionally, I couldn’t leave without mentioning my Co-Editor-in-Chief one last time. Bridget has been an amazing partner to work with. Her assertiveness and capabilities to lead and design are incredible. She is so helpful and is willing to work with others. Her ideas are phenomenal, and I can’t wait to see what she comes up with for next year. I would also like to shout out Ms. Roskelley for being such an amazing teacher and advisor. She has been my teacher six times over the span of high school and I couldn’t have asked for a better one.

Lastly, I want to thank anyone who is reading this. I started this class at 14, unsure of who I was and where I would end up. While I am still unsure of those answers, I am ready to go out and find them. I have worked on 16 magazines for the BGQ, and this will be the last one. Thank you all for everything, and good luck, Class of 2025. We have made it. //

From the Pub, Eliana Hermel

Editor's note: Bridget '26

The 2024-2025 school year has been my most difficult by far. Not just because of junior year rigor or discovering how to manage my role as co-editor in chief of the BGQ, but because of the goodbyes that come at the end.

Across our four issues this year, Eliana has done nothing but prove that she is one of the most capable and hardworking leaders I know. This week, though, Eliana is finishing off her senior year of high school. This issue – her final and one of her best – has been one of my favorite issues to work on with Eliana. Issue Four’s theme is 2000s nostalgia, a topic that entails memories spanning from video games with friends to those ridiculous low-rise jeans that nobody should have ever worn (“no butts in the BGQ” -Ms. Roskelley). With such a wide range of topics and trends to use as inspiration, Eliana and I certainly have enjoyed the allusions we’ve been able to make in each story. Some of my favorites include our allusions to the “The More You Know” meme (pg. 9) and Pitbull (pg. 34). Aside from just designs, though, Issue Four contains a wide range of stories that display Central’s Class of 2025. Whether reading about this year’s drum majors (pg. 25) or the 2024-2025 NHS presidents (pg. 36), you will not cease being impressed with the achievements of this year’s class. While one of my favorite issues of each year, Issue Four remains one of the most bittersweet because we are saying goodbye to an entire class.

So, in consideration that issue four is the BGQ’s farewell to this year’s graduates, it’s important for me to recognize Eliana. This past year, Eliana and I have bonded over InDesign struggles, computer issues, and in our many time crunches. Aside from graduating (not cool Eliana), in the past year, Eliana has never let me or the BGQ down, and, when she attends Ferris State University in the fall, Eliana will not let herself down as she pursues her future. So, while I’m disappointed you’re leaving me, I know that you will achieve everything you put your mind to, Eliana. Next year, the BGQ will be a different class, with different faces, different people, and different styles, but your work in this class will always remain. Congratulations, Class of 2025! (P.S. Happy graduation, Annie Herron - I’m gonna miss our double!) //

From the Pub, Bridget Belden

Sports Features pgs. 8-19

TCollege List pgs. 20-22

Retiring Teacher Spotlight pg. 23

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Quote Pages pgs. 6-7, 38

General Features pgs. 24-37

BGQ Senior Features pgs. 39-43

How would you describe senioritis?

“ Horrible. You’re tired everY daY and just want to be done. There’s so much on your plate, [to] tHink about college, jobs, and school work.”

- briannah Wolf

“ It’s awful buT amazing at tHe same time because you know you’ll be done really soon, buT at tHe same time, you have to push tHrougH.”

- brodY daY

definiTely real. and [I’m] really ready to geT out of high school. -elly WrighT

What song best describes your senior year?

losT in YesTerdaY by Tame Impala. It’s kind of just gone by almosT too fast in my opInion (I tHink tHe song is about tHat). -alex litTell

unWriTten by natasha bedIngfeld. -carmen mannor

roman’s revenge by nicki minaj featurIng eminem. -molly carrigan

Passing it Forward

By Parker Ziegler // Staff Writer

Many students on the Central soccer teams get their start way before ever setting foot on the TAC field, including seniors Abby Yonts and Ellie Schenkelberger, who were both part of the North Storm Club team as preteens. As prominent players for Central’s Girls Soccer team now, both Yonts and Schenkelberger have grown significantly since their introduction to soccer.

Abby Yonts started off her soccer career at six years old playing rec soccer before moving up to the North Storm Club team. Yonts has played at Central all four years, three of which have been on varsity. On the field, Yonts mostly stays farther back alternating between outside and center back. “I like [defense] because everything’s in front of me which… just works well with my strong suits and [I feel like] it’s just more chill than other positions,” explains Yonts. In her last season with Central, Yonts hopes that her team can win the BNC and go far in districts, hopefully beating Midland Dow.

For Yonts, it’s not all about the games. She also enjoys just spending time with her team, especially on bus rides to away games and team dinners. “It gives us time to be with each other just as a team and not [only] playing soccer,” Yonts remarks. “[It’s] time to bond or hang out when not actually playing.” Yonts also wants to remind her younger teammates that it’s important to “[not] be too hard on yourself because it takes the fun away from it. Genuinely have fun.” Yonts does not know if she is going to keep playing soccer in college, but she

plans to attend Michigan State University majoring in psychology and minoring in either environmental sciences or English.

Similarly, Ellie Schenkelberger has also played soccer for Central all four years. She began her soccer career at around 11 years old, having been drawn to the sport after watching her younger sister start playing. From there on out Schenkelberger played for TBAYS North Storm on the same team as Yonts. For Schenkelberger, playing soccer for Central has been a great experience: “[The team is] just a very tight-knit family community. So it’s definitely a great program to be a part of,” admits Schenkelberger. This year, she is also one of three varsity team captains. “I feel like [being captain has] made me more serious when it comes to soccer,” comments Schenkelberger. “It’s definitely less of going into practices and games with a ‘I’m just going to have fun’ attitude. It’s more ‘I’m gonna carry my team and help them the best that I can and do what’s best for my team.’”

After graduation, Schenkelberger plans to keep playing soccer for Cornerstone University, while also pursuing a pre-med track. As she closes out her final season with the Central Girls Soccer team, Schenkelberger advises her younger teammates that “high school is really just a moment to take a breath of fresh air. [So] just have fun and enjoy yourself. It [can be] serious at times, but allow yourself to have fun.” //

Photo Courtesy A. Yonts

Photo Courtesy E. Schenkelberger

Graphics Courtesy L. Philips

Teammates

Abby Yonts and Ellie Schenkelberger comment on their shared soccer successes.

Geordie Richmond has had soccer in his life since before he could talk, and he’s been playing since he could walk. Richmond started out his soccer career in the TBAYS Juniors program, one of the only soccer programs in the region. “I started playing because my parents just signed me up. I never really had a say, but since then I just kinda kept playing more and fell in love with the game,” remarks Richmond. “My mom played division three in college, and my dad, who’s from England, came to America to coach soccer, so it’s always just been part of my blood.” He has played all four years of high school on the boys’ varsity team as a center midfielder. “One of my favorite things about [being

wouldn’t have gotten through if we’d had more conflicts and stuff on our team,” he notes.

Richmond’s fellow teammate and friend Owen Adams is also a senior on the team this year. Encouraged by his mother, Adams has been playing soccer since elementary school: “My mom played collegiate soccer, so I’ve always been encouraged to play soccer through her. We’ve always played soccer in my family,” comments Adams. Up until high school, Adams played soccer for TBAYS North Storm along with Richmond. While he has continued to play for North Storm during the spring and the summer, he spends his fall season competing for the Trojans. Even though Adams has

Soccer Superstars!

By Parker Ziegler // Staf Writer

a midfielder] is having a role of freedom,” explains Richmond. “[I have] more leniency to go into spaces where others might not have the same room to go.”

Richmond’s favorite soccer memory from Central is winning their first home semi-final district game because “[That game] was the first really competitive game that we’ve won in districts,” he reveals. “Being able to get over that step and make a push to put the program in the right direction of winning at regional levels [was significant].” He hopes that his other teammates continue to carry on the legacy of excellence that has made the boys’ soccer team thrive over the past few years. “Have fun. Savor every memory you’ve made. Think about it and really just keep your teammates close to you. Our team was really close and that helped us through a lot of close games and tough moments that we probably

a preference for club soccer, he’s still really enjoyed playing for Central as well: “[I’m] super grateful to have had such a great coach the past two years. [We have a] super great facility, [too],” he adds.

As for advice, Adams encourages his younger teammates to “Get in weights, [because] we have such a great utility with Coach Gle, and we have some of the best equipment of any schools in the nation,” he declares. “[So] get in weights and really try hard. He’ll turn you into an athlete.”

Photo Courtesy G. Richmond

Although Richmond and Adams are not planning to pursue soccer professionally, both plan to attend schools in Michigan and may find opportunities for soccer in college. Richmond plans to major in elementary physical education, and Adams will be attending Auburn University for their aviation program. //

Teammates and soccer bros Geordie Richmond and Owen Adams on their athletic adventures.

One Last Block

After a decade, Riley Scollard exits the hockey rink for the last time

By Kailyn Groves // Content Editor

Senior Riley Scollard has loved hockey for the past 10 years. She grew up competitive and enjoys being around other people who shared her love of the sport. “It gave me a way to compete, be competitive, and also set goals for myself,” Scollard explains. She currently is a goalie for the Bay Reps girls hockey team as the main sports defender.

In hockey, Scollard has been a part of a team that she’ll never forget. “My favorite thing about hockey is probably the team aspect,” she claims. “I love being around my teammates, and also just building connections on my team with teammates.” Alongside team bonding, Scollard had the opportunity to make memories and friendships with the team. “Late nights at the rink after practice, just hanging out with my teammates and having conversations in the locker room,” Scollard claims.

Scollard and her team have worked together to accomplish great things. During the past three years, they have made it to the semifinals and hope to go further in the future. With every success comes a challenge, which is no surprise to Scollard, and for her, the worst being “Injuries,” Scollard laughs. “Because you can’t always control when you get injured, but you can control how hard you work, like when you’re healed.”

As hard as it may be, pushing through hard parts is the best thing to do. “When you are experienc-

ing an injury, you can control working hard and trying to work around the injury that you’re facing,” she notes.

Besides hockey, Scollard has been involved in the Awaken Bible study, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, NHS, Young Life, and track while at Central, which Scollards finds has been instrumental in her development. “I think being involved in the Bible study and FCA has really shaped my faith,” Scollard expresses. “I’ve been able to incorporate my faith through my sports [as well].” Of her accomplishments on the team, Scollard is most proud of the David Luzak scholarship, being a player of the week for a hockey camp, and making it to semifinals the last three years on the Bay Reps team.

As the year closes out, Scollard has come to the conclusion to major in exercise science at Grand Canyon University. “I think my faith in hockey has shaped me and pushed me to do that,” Scollard states, “And it’s helped me become the person I am today.” Although Scollard does not plan to continue to play hockey in college, she hopes that other girls will find the same enjoyment in the sport that she did during her high school years. “You’re going to make so many good friendships along the way,” Scollard concludes. “Enjoy every minute of it, because it goes by so fast.” //

Photo Courtesy R. Scollard

Skating into Legacy: The class of 2025’s final period.

Hockey players Drew Zrimec and Arthur McManus look back on their time on the ice

By Landon Willett // Staff Writer

It takes a lot of time and dedication to truly be a part of a team, and the Trojan Boys Hockey Team is no exception. Hockey requires strategy and a deep understanding of the sport. “If you don’t have the hockey IQ, then you won’t be able to [succeed,]” senior Drew Zrimec explains. “Just understanding the game and [realizing] the pass is gonna be there or something like that [and] seeing the play before it happens.”

Many players started playing when they were younger or because of the influence of previous players; if these people got discouraged they wouldn’t have known their love for the sport and wouldn’t be playing today. For example, McManus started out young, “So when I was three years old, I learned how to skate and my parents signed me up for hockey because my sister played, so I joined. My parents really pushed me to it, and my sister was there before me, so I just kinda followed in her footsteps.” Similarly, Zrimec was influenced by other people he knew who persuaded him to start playing hockey: “Our family friends played, [and] all their older sons played it, and one of my good buddies - he’s my age,” he clarifies, “so they got me into it.”

When Zrimec eventually joined the Trojans, he was inspired by his older teammates. “[During] my freshman [and] sophomore years, those older guys - the upperclassmen of that time - and just seeing how they did it and how professional they

were at high school hockey [was] how I wanted to be,” he reflects.

Hockey also is about being a part of a team and not getting discouraged when things don’t go your way. It’s easy to dwell on all of your mistakes and beat yourself up over them. McManus shares that “You can’t really let the mistakes get to you because that’s when you start to make more. So if you ever make a mistake, you just kinda leave it behind you and just keep working.” Zrimec also finds that when it comes to mistakes and challenges, “You try to forget about them, but it’s kinda hard, too. So you just try to improve after you make a mistake,” he notes. “When you get those hard times, you need that momentum like you do in the game. That’s kinda how I attack life.”

Both Zrimec and McManus currently don’t have plans to continue hockey on a professional level, although Zrimec has an offer to play in New Mexico for a junior team, which is a step before the collegiate level. But they both can agree that while it may be beneficial to start out young, it’s never too late to start playing hockey. McManus explains, “if it’s hard to learn in the beginning, don’t give up because it always takes time to get good. And I know a lot of people that stopped playing because they thought they weren’t as good compared to a lot of people, but as long as you’re having fun, it doesn’t matter how good you are.” //

Photo courtesy of D. Zrimec

Graphics: B. Belden

The Core of the Court

Elyse Heffner and Marley Richmond serve up major success on the Central Volleyball Team.

By Kerrigan Jenkins // Staff Writer

Seniors Elyse Heffner and Marley Richmond have been making their way up the ladder of volleyball since the fourth grade and can now reminisce on the journey through hardships and triumphs before they take their next steps into the world. Heffner and Richmond have played and enjoyed their time on outside of school travel teams, but have especially made their mark on the Traverse City Central High School Volleyball team.

The team has been one of the most important aspects of their high school experience, particularly with the community they built. “You make a lot of new friends that you may not have thought to become one with,” Richmond comments. She is grateful to still grow with these people to this day. Heffner explains the team’s environment by saying they “always [have] the best interest for each other and [are] always supporting each other. If you’re in the same position as somebody, we’re always working and giving feedback.”

A typical week during the season consists of daily practice, where they set up, do warmups, and work on building their skills from 4:006:00pm, with games usually towards the end of the week where they “play music before to get in a routine and just have moment of silence” before going out. Their pre-game prep is what sets them up for success, like winning regionals for the first time in Central’s history this past season. Heffner helps explain what has helped her handle the pressure: “Focusing in, knowing what’s ahead of you, but not getting ahead of yourself and worrying about what’s right in front of you,” she

remarks. “Also, getting excited for it, knowing… [that] you’re going to have fun with the team instead of getting nervous about it.” Richmond also finds that it’s better to relax and not overthink the competition: instead, “focusing on myself and not the score or what has gone wrong,” she comments.

Heffner is the team’s captain, and for this past season, she wanted to prioritize certain goals for the group, including “Leadership and communication on and off the court, and always working on building connections, like teamwork, and working together on the court,” she lists. Being chosen to lead the team has been a major highlight in Heffner’s volleyball journey. “[My proudest moment has been] getting to build connections with everybody through the whole program,” Heffner shares, “[and] being able to have the same goals in mind as everybody around me and always pushing each other to be better.”

Richmond will attend Northwestern Michigan College while studying biology and then transfer to Michigan State University. Heffner will play at the University of South Alabama while studying business. The amazing community and great work ethic of the volleyball program are shown brightly through these seniors, who are going to great places. Richmond recommends joining because “It’s a very fun experience, it’s a great community to be in, and everyone’s supportive of each other and there for each other.” Heffner adds, “[it’s] such a good program with such amazing coaches and people.”//

The lights shine down, the student section roars, and the whistle blows. The game begins, and Scotty Goodwin gets ready to run for the ball. Football has been a large part of Goodwin’s life for a long time. “I started when I was younger. My dad played college football, and so I’ve always been around it,” Goodwin recalls. “I started with flag football in first grade and just stuck with it ever since.” He has made many memories in football over the years, one of his favorites being during his JV year. “We were winning a game by a lot, and a kid who didn’t get to play too much finally got in the game,” Goodwin remembers, “and he made a big play, and when he came to the sidelines, we all started celebrating. It was just a cool moment for him and for all of us.”

But his team was always with him. For him football “created lifelong brothers for me,” Goodwin remarks. “I still talk to them, and [the team] just teaches you to be more than yourself, cause you can’t win a football game by yourself.” The team especially likes hanging out as a group outside of practices and games, and they use each other as a support system. “If you’re struggling or something, you can just count on them, and you know they’ll be there for you,” he reflects.

On the football team, Goodwin plays wide receiver. This means during a game, he will be on the outside, going for passes, catching the ball, and blocking for his teammates when necessary. When big games come up, Goodwin will “put some music and my headphones on and visualize myself doing well,” he describes. “I’m making some plays out there for my team.” He

Good Wins for Goodwin

Wide receiver Scotty Goodwin looks forward to the next yard line.

By Kaleb LaBarbera // Staff Writer

considers it an honor being able to play in the big games like Central versus West or the Patriot Game. “It’s a big deal around here, and it’s more than just the game,” Goodwin remarks. “A lot of people spend money and take time out of their day to come watch you play, so [you] want to put out the best performance you can for them. [It] means a lot.”

Not many people end up pursuing their high school sport after graduation, but Goodwin plans to start his postsecondary education playing college football at Lead Prep Academy in Brighton before transferring to a larger college. Despite the accolades and successes he’s had during his time on the Trojan Football Team, he finds the work leading to the success most rewarding. “People don’t see all the work that goes on behind the scenes,” Goodwin comments. “So when you put it all together and you can win, it’s probably my favorite part.” //

Photo courtesy of Dinahmight Klicks

Graphics: B. Belden and S. Roskelley

30-Love

Riley White celebrates his personal victories on the varsity tennis team.

By Sean Humphrey // Staff Writer

With over 30 season wins in his senior year alone, Riley White has certainly earned his spot on Central’s Varsity Boys Tennis Team that he has held for the past three years. He started playing on the freshman team and kept up practicing all throughout the winter, eventually making the varsity team the following year. “It’s been just a fun thing to take my mind off school and work, [and] I’ve gotten to meet a lot of fun and nice people through playing,” White remarks.

As he continued to play, White began to improve, adding on to his win/loss record: currently, “it’s more than 70 wins and less than 50 losses,” he states. “My sophomore season and my junior season were both positive win rates. My sophomore season was negative. I’m over .500 for my career, but I don’t know how much.” His proudest accomplishment - 30 seasons wins as a senior - didn’t come without struggles along the way. “[During] my junior year, when I had to play singles, I only got 10 wins and had to play a lot of very good players,” White shares. “It’s a game that you can always get better at, [though].” White admits that it wasn’t always simple, however, as tennis is no easy game to focus on even with a team backing him the whole way. “Everyone brings the same amount of energy when [other] people are playing…we tend to group up and cheer on our team,

and that’s helpful even while you’re playing knowing that people are supporting you,” he notes. The team aspect is what really makes the sport for White, and it’s the thing he keeps in mind the most when preparing for matches, such as “[The] team warm-ups, and getting the energy up, even if I’m not the first one on, [and] going and cheering someone else to just get the energy going,” he comments.

White values his tennis career heavily, praising the mental fortitude he has learned by playing. While he has no plans to play competitively in college, he plans to keep his skill sharpened playing in regular tournaments and clubs. “Even the very best players miss and make mistakes. [It’s all about] being able to improve,” claims White. “I mean, there’s always things that I wish I could have done better, but losing helps you learn.” This approach has allowed White to lead quite the impressive career, helping his team to win the BNC three times, twice in which he competed himself. These three big wins, along with his positive win rate, positive attitude and his ability to sense when others on the team need encouragement, have made him a staple of the Varsity tennis team. //

Photo Courtesy TCC Boys Varsity Tennis

Graphics: B. Belden

Setting Herself Up for Accidental Success

After leaving volleyball behind, Irena Briggs takes on a new sport.

By Jade McGraw // Staff Writer

For many athletes, finding the right sport takes time. That’s exactly what happened with senior Irena Briggs. “I played volleyball my whole life, but I lost my passion for it,” she shares. “One of my best friends also didn’t really like volleyball, so we both quit and started tennis just for fun.” What started as something new quickly became much more. Briggs began taking lessons and found that she really enjoyed the game. The more she practiced, the more motivated she became. “I wanted to get better,” she says. “It was really fun to see all the progress I was making.”

Of course, tennis isn’t always easy. With matches comes pressure, but Briggs has found ways to handle it. “I try to stay calm,” she explains. “I have a doubles partner, and she helps me a lot when I feel the pressure. And our coach always reminds us that it’s okay to lose, as long as we try our best.” One of her favorite memories was during the State tournament last year. “We won our first match at States, and the other team was ranked higher than us. It felt amazing,” she recalls. “Even though we didn’t win one of our matches against West, it was probably the best we’ve ever played together.”

To get ready for competition, Briggs trains hard, both physically and mentally. “I try not to skip practices, and I play a lot in the off-season,” she says. “Mentally, I remind myself that it’s okay if I don’t win as long as I try my hardest.” Of her accomplishments while on the tennis team, making the varsity team during her junior year is what she’s most proud of. “It’s a really competitive team, and only 12 people make it,” Briggs reveals. “A lot

of them have been playing way longer than I have, so making varsity last year felt like a huge accomplishment.” Tryouts were the toughest part, especially with Briggs’ background being more in volleyball than tennis. “You’re playing against people who’ve been playing for years, and it’s hard not to compare yourself,” she states. “It takes a toll mentally when you feel like you’re not good enough.”

Looking back, Briggs has advice for younger players wanting to become more involved in their school teams: “Play during the off-season because it shows the coaches you’re committed,” she advises. “Try your hardest, and don’t bring yourself down. If you’re not in a good mental place, it affects how you play physically.” Tennis has made a big difference in Briggs’ life, and her experience at Central wouldn’t have been the same without it. “It’s made me a lot happier,” she notes. “I actually get excited to go to tennis. I’ve made so many of my best friends through it.” She doesn’t plan to play competitively after high school but may join a club team or play for fun. For now, she’s enjoying every moment of her senior season. “Sports aren’t just about winning,” she remarks. “Tennis showed me they can be about fun, friendship, and learning about yourself, too.” //

Photo Courtesy I. Briggs Graphics: J. Teesdale

Approaching the Final Frame

Carter Banton spares no details on his bowling journey

By Morgan Hill // Content Editor

A common, yet underrated sport anywhere is bowling. The Central bowling team is one of the teams that often struggles with recruitment and getting members to practices. Carter Banton is one of the rare people that’s been part of the team for all four years, and has met astounding progress and amazing accomplishments, making states and nationals every year since he’s done bowling. “I’ve been bowling for almost seven years now,” Banton says. “I’ve bowled mainly at Lucky Jack’s, but [I’ve also] bowled in many alleys all across Michigan and did this season at Incredible Mo’s.” Banton was partially motivated by his sibling to get interested in bowling. “My brother, Nolan, actually started by getting a bowling ball when we were younger. Because he got one, we all had to get one, and then we went almost every day for a long time,” he recalls.

Banton’s bowling has been more than a pastime for him, though. “When I was young my mom was diagnosed with breast cancer and sadly passed away when I was 12,” Banton discloses. “Sometimes, to get our minds off of everything, during her fight and after she passed, we would go bowling.” Banton quickly got hooked on the sport, taking his love of maths and physics into account when bowling. During the last several years, the people he has gotten to know have been what’s made bowling truly special to him: “The community of people is different from any sport I’ve ever played. In a lot of sports, you have coaches and people yelling all the time, but bowling is a super chill environment, and I got to meet a lot of people

throughout my journey,” Banton reflects.

After playing for fun in middle school, Banton decided to compete on Central’s bowling team and take his abilities to the next level. “I think I noticed that I could actually be really good [at bowling] my freshman year. We won the BNC tournament and I realized that I could definitely be a good bowler, but also a good teammate as well,” he recalls. “My best bowling score is a 300. I bowled it at Lucky Jack’s in front of the entire west bowling team.” Banton believes that his practice and dedication to the sport has gotten him to where he is today, sparking his success. “My bowling secret is practice and dedication. My best year was my sophomore year, and I went bowling after school 6 days a week during the season,” he recounts. “I ended up getting 4th in the state that year. I think watching the good bowlers around you and then practicing yourself will get you a long way.”

Regarding bowling after high school, Banton is unsure about how he will continue with the sport, whether via club bowling or on a recreational team, but he plans to attend Lansing Community College in the fall. “I plan on majoring in finance, but I think I will end up serving in a church when I get older,” he shares. Banton believes that he’s come a long way in seven years, and bowling has played a huge part in getting him through some tough years. “I have to thank God, my mom, and my dad, along with the rest of my family. Without God, I wouldn’t have gone as far as I did, and where I went was completely His will.” //

Graphics: B. Belden and S. Humphrey

Photo Courtesy tcc_barstool

Tapping OUt At the Finish

How the rowing team pushes Annie Herron to victory

By Finn Kennedy // Staff Writer

Under the glow of early morning practices and the pressure of major races, Annie Herron has become more than just a senior rower-she’s a driving force behind the crew team. With determination and leadership that lifts everyone around her, Herron has helped shape the team with resilience, teamwork, and excellence on and off the water.

Herron first joined rowing out of curiosity. What started as a leap into the unknown over time became a deep passion, thanks to the strong sense of teamwork, the thrill of race days, and the constant drive to push herself and her teammates. For Herron, rowing wasn’t just about the sport-it was about bonding with others, embracing the challenge, and learning what it takes to win together. “I love the team aspect and races are very fun. [I love] hanging out with the team and pushing each other to win,” she reflects.

What kept Herron coming back to the water was not only the sport itself, but also the people and the energy of competition. “Races are very fun, and we motivate each other,” she reveals. The adrenaline of race days fuels her drive to win and succeed, but it’s the shared struggle of all the teammates that truly makes it meaningful. “We created a lot of friendships,” she reminisces.

the water, and mental discipline is crucial to make it to the finish line. “You accomplish more when you actually try. You can’t get out on the water and not try and expect to win. You have to put in the effort,” she says. It’s also a very time- consuming sport. Herron never knew how much her free time would shrink after she dedicated herself to rowing. “I don’t think it would have changed my opinion on sticking with it, but I didn’t realize how much of a commitment it was,” she admits. Herron has to manage her time wisely like all busy students: a careful balance of juggling academics, rowing, and social obligations, as well as her own free time. “I have it a little easier because I’m doing an early college program, so I have free time during my days to do my schoolwork,” she elaborates.

“And then I usually hang out with my friends after practice at night.”

One of Herron’s favorite memories from rowing is winning first place with her quad last season. She was extremely proud of the whole team’s effort: “I think the whole team did really well [last fall]. We had an amazing season,” she reflects.

Despite all the fun of being on the water, the sport is one of the most physical as well as mentally demanding sports. Total effort is necessary on

Looking ahead, Herron is not sure if she will row in college, but hopes to at least continue recreationally. Over the years, she has found that rowing and perseverance go hand in hand: “Continue to stick with it and ask for help when you need it and just give it your all,” she advises. //

Photo Courtesy B. Belden

What started out as a middle school hobby became one of the most meaningful parts of Katie Clark’s high school experience. Clark has been skiing since the seventh grade and has been part of Central’s downhill ski team since freshman year. The community Clark has made with the team is what has kept her motivated during the cold Northern Michigan winters: “There

Gliding Through Life

Senior Katie Clark reminisces on her four years on the cross country ski team and the challenges, triumphs, and friendships she made through her sport.

By Kerrigan Jenkins // Staff Writer

Graphics: B. Belden

are great people, and it’s not just our school, it’s other schools around,” she clarifies. “You get to meet a bunch of people.” The team energy is present on and off the slopes, which makes for better practices and races. “We tend to have group hangouts before races and are super encouraging during the races and practices,” Clark comments.

Over the last few seasons, the weather has been hit or miss to say the least, which is a crucial factor in the success and enjoyment of the ski team. “In the beginning, when there isn’t snow on the ground, we tend to do weights, conditioning, [and] running, and then we have an active day, that’s more conditioning,” Clark lists. “Then once it gets to skiing, we’ll either ski classic and we’ll end up sometimes having interval days,” which is a relief to the skiers waiting for powder while conditioning in the weight room. “Sometimes we’ll do a free ski, sometimes we’ll do technique days, and then usually we have a race on the weekends and that lasts all day and we just do a couple races.”

Clark is a very dedicated student who will be attending the University of Michigan in the fall, studying organizational studies. She has

managed to stay on top of her academics and athletics over her four years by doing her schoolwork during the school day as much as possible and then focuses on skiing after school, “but it will take a lot of days out of your schedule,” she notes.

Although Clark will be leaving the competitive skiing part of her life in the past, it will never fully leave and she hopes to continue at a club level or whenever she returns to Traverse City. “I’m not a big race fan, but I love the dynamics that come from it, and I love skiing a lot,” she admits. Since joining the ski team she “gotten out of [her] comfort zone,” claiming, “it’s pushed my limits and made me realize how I can be a good athlete and a good student,” and she has learned how to balance and appreciate everything she wants to be a part of as a well rounded student as well as discipline to “keep going no matter the conditions.” //

Photo Courtesy K. Clark

cross-country season. It sucked, to be honest,” Chaussee acknowledges.

Over the last few years, Chaussee has enjoyed bonding with teammates and creating long lasting friendships through their shared love of running, especially during “Team dinners, hang[ing] out with the team before [and] after [running], and…conversations on our runs,” Chaussee explains. “It’s a very social sport, and I really enjoy that.” Having experienced his own personal struggles while getting into track and cross country, Chaussee recognizes this in his other teammates as well. “I’ve gotten

Crossing the Finish Line

Zachary Chaussee started his athletic career in his freshman year after a friend encouraged him to come out and run; from that moment on, he was immediately hooked. “It ended up sparking something inside me,” Chaussee expresses. One year led to four years in both cross country and track.

While track and cross country have been passions for Chaussee, it hasn’t always been something that he’s been the best at. “I [went] from one of the slowest guys on the team to landing on our varsity roster and running at the state finals,” Chaussee states proudly. Accomplishing so much within a high school long athletic career speaks volumes when receiving a variety letter. “I’ve gotten a varsity letter every year in track, and I got my varsity letter in cross-country in my final season,” he explains. Named team captain, for both cross country and track, Chaussee feels accomplished and complete with his successes. With every success comes its challenges, though. “My junior year, I hit a bump,” Chaussee admits. “I stopped progressing like I did my freshman and sophomore year.” Struggling to get out of the rut of regression, Chaussee felt burnt out. “I learned from that. But that was the biggest hurdle I faced was that junior

By Kailyn Groves // Content Editor

to become really close friends with…guys on the varsity level, but also some of those younger guys, too, who were in the same place I was [during] my freshman and sophomore year,” he reflects. “I’ve just gotten close with a lot of those guys. They’ve become part of my friends, and I love to be around them.”

With the school year closing out, Chaussee plans to attend University of Michigan to major in computer engineering. “That’s a field I’ve always been interested in. I’ve always liked…working on solutions that [are] going to help people,” he remarks. Thanks to his time on the Central running teams, Chaussee intends to participate in club running while at college. He hopes other future Trojan runners will find the same joy in the sport that he has over the years: “You’ve just got to put in the work, put in the effort, and you’ll get there,” Chaussee advises. “That’s the biggest thing. It’s a sport where it’s so easy to get involved with and just make progress.” //

Photo Courtesy TC Ricks

Track captain and cross country runner Zachary Chaussee makes major strides towards excellence

Class of 2025 Post-Graduation Plans

Alma College

Jakiah Brumfield

Sasha Buck

Aquinas College

Nora McGrew

Arizona State University

Jenna Van Skyhock

Auburn University

Owen Adams

Calvin University

Lawrence Cubitt

Cedarville University

Kiel Knapp

Cornerstone University

Ellie Schenkelberger

Davidson College

Ian Boss

Douglas J Aveda Institute

Annabelle Bird

Earlham College

Tessa Petty

East Tennessee State University

Lucia France

Epiphany Advanced Academy

Rebecca Miracle

Ferris State University

Mason Aylworth

Eliana Hermel

Sheyanne Pinkney

Florida Atlantic University

Isabel Espinoza

Gap Year

Adriana Allen

Lucas Hammond

Maisie Martin

Lake Stier

Caden Wilson

Grand Canyon University

Riley Scollard

Grand Rapids Community College

Kailyn Groves

Grand Valley State University

Primalia Cubitt

Lilian Glidden

Phoebe Jackson

Benjamin Lee

Madison Meister

Amelia Mercado

Rebecca Miller

Asher Petersen

Lani Roberts

Chloe Saxton

Great Lakes Culinary Institute

Jordan Teesdale

Jacob Trick

Great Lakes Maritime Academy

Zach Troyer

Hope College

Ella Cabbage

Olivia Frixen

Lola Ruoff

Wren Walker

Indiana University

Cady Madion

Luca Santoro

Kalamazoo College

Maximus Betten

Kent State University

Josi Maki

Kirtland Community College

Kaitelyn Fettig

Kuyper College

Aden Moorehead

Lansing Community College

Carter Banton

Cole Herzberg

Sarah McCombs

Lawrence Technological University

Hattie Wollam

Lead Prep Academy

Scott Goodwin

Legacy Aviation Learning Center

Matthew McKinney

Marymount Manhattan College

Angelina Chouinard

Michigan State University

Molly Carrigan

Emilia Cerone

Elaina Chippewa

Brogan Danbrook

Brady Fiebing

Savanna Fox

Shiloh Gersenson

Gabriel Girrbach

Gavin Graetz

Kinsey Hintz

Stella Larrance

Dylann Lawrence

Arthur McManus

Beatrice Plum

Jack Potgieter

Lewis Roubal

Alec Roeters

Ella Sill

Joshua Vezza

Leah Walkup

Keira Wesley

Ella Wilson

Eleanor Wright

Abigail Yonts

Michigan Technological University

Beckvold Czerwonka

Sean Humphrey

Vince Martin

Isabella Reimers

Elijah Richardson

Spencer Stallman

Madelyn Stawowy

Thayer Yang

Middlebury College

Abby Phannenstiel

Military

Aduel Goddard

Joseph Landon

Annastasia Walter

Missouri Western

Isabella VanWagoner

Montana State University

Brody Day

Christopher Enoksen

Mott Community College

Audrey Williams

Mount Holyoke College

Katahdin Smith

Nascar Technical

Aubrey Ellalasingham

New York University

Isla Falconer

North American Hockey League

Luke VanderRoest

Northern Michigan University

Karoline Haapala

Isley Moshier

Northwestern Michigan College

Linus Appel

Ella Asper

Jack Baird

Isadore Becker

Ethan Benson

Laine Boyce

Camille Brown

Mina Cotner

Aurora Coykendall

Brianna Dann

Jack Dombek

Laynee Elgen

Kayden Emery

Patrick Fiebing

Victoria Gorney

Hannah Gremel

Jacqueline Hanna

Abby Harrington

Airon Herman

Morgan Hill

Sienna Houlberg

Ella Howse

Maryn Hulett

Isabella Humphrey

Aubrie Johnson

Natalie Johnson

Amelia Jordan

Kyle Kraus

Adrian Kuhlman

David Laguire

William Leatherberry

Lauren Mansuy

Ashton McAllister

MacKenzie McIntosh

Sarah McSwain

Mary Meek-McCartney

Carson Montgomery-Watts

Charley Parkhurst

Avery Pelton

Teigen Phillips

Madison Piper

Devin Pryde

Niusha Rahjoo

Samantha Roeters

Thomas Russell

Ethan Soloman

Stella Solomonson

Liliana Sosa Dunn

Thor Steinorth

Ezekiel Stevens

Paisley Suba

Emma Taft

Alexa Taylor

Lillian Taylor

Abigail Umstead

Madison Vandenberg

Aiden Vogelheim

Marin Wade

Brandon White

Hayden Williams

Ontario Wilson

Brianna Wolff

Natalie Woods

Ohio Technical College

Matthew Snover

Oklahoma State University

Jace Usiondek

Queens University of Charlotte

Tanner Cooley Trade School

Connar Mallow

Ethan Jewell

Traverse City Beauty College

Kira Roy

University of Alabama

Drew Zrimec

University of Detroit Mercy

Nikolai Alibocas

University of Guelph

Lucille Desmond

University of Louisville

Gracie DiBenedetto

University of Michigan

Cameron Biddenger

Zachary Chaussee

Kathryn Clark

Annie Goldkuhle

Lilija Hammersley

Caroline Henkel

Emery Luyt

Roxy McClellan

Finn Robinson

Iali Rodenroth

Jace Rowell

Anna Rupard

University of Nebraska

Gemma Soles

University of Oregon

Mae Madion

University of South Alabama

Elyse Heffner

University of Utah

Galean Blakeslee

Carmen Mannor

Trevor Suttle

University of Wisconsin

Ethan Konopacki

West Point Military Academy

Kostas Tsoukalas

Western Kentucky University

Irena Briggs

Western Michigan University

Tia Brown

Maren Byrne

Greta Falcon

Carson Hidalgo

Teagan Kimbrell

Owen Martin

Abigail McDonough

Work

Lara Angie

Aiden Allen

Nadia Bembeneck

Sofie Bigelow

Kashton Brien

Spencer Carlson

Evelyn Darrow

Rylee Ellison

Angel Gonzalez

Pablo Granzotto

Lillian Greenman

Eduardo Gutierrez

Joshua Haydon

Phillip Hittle

Emry Kiley

Ashton Klingelsmith

Cody Kneer

Nathan Kulakowski

Leo McAvoy

Haley McCallum

Macy Plamondon

Nathaniel Powers

Cameron Smith

Oslo Smith

Shane Turner

Anthony Wasageshic

Mrs. Boulanger Mrs. WolF-schlarf

Years Taught: 36

Years at CHs: 6

Graduation Year: 1983

high school atTended: dominican high school

College atTended: aquinas College & MarYGrove College

Favorite Class: CHeMisTry

Years Taught: 38

Years at CHs: 17

Graduation Year: 1980

high school atTended: Morenci high school

College atTended: albion College & Michigan staTe universitY

Favorite Class Taught: vocal MajoritY

RETIRING TEACHERS FEATURE

Mr. Forlenza Mrs. Mcnamara

Years Taught: 37

Years at CHs: 30

Graduation Year: 1980

high school atTended: Flint Powers CatholiC

College atTended: CenTral Michigan universitY

Favorite Classes Taught: american hisTorY and honors GovernMenT

Years Taught: 30

Years at CHs: 28

Graduation Year: 1987

high school atTended: st. ignatius College PreP

College atTended: ConnecTicuT College & universitY of illinois

Favorite ParT of TeachinG: Class discussion

(Bach) At It Again

How one random YouTube video inspired Owen Martin to create his own compositions.

By Morgan Hill // Content Editor

CHS has several popular music programs. The choirs have, perhaps, the largest manpower, the band may be the most expensive, and the orchestra, despite its relatively smaller size, forces students to be independently solid in their musical talents. However, all music has to be created by a composer, and CHS orchestra member Owen Martin is one of those unique people at CHS that has proved to have skill in that field.

Before he started composing, Martin participated in the NMC Children’s Choir, then joined orchestra in sixth grade, and has since been part of several community orchestras. During that time, Martin began studying music theory and composition. “[I’ve been composing] since seventh grade. It started when I saw a YouTube video where some guy was making a song in a digital audio workstation using sounds only from the mobile game My Singing Monsters,” Martin recalls. Later that year, he asked for the music composition program Logic for Christmas and eventually switched to Musecore for more instrumental pieces not long after.

Martin further enhanced his compositional skills by attending AP Music Theory in his sophomore year. “I learned a lot in that class,” Martin emphasizes. “I had some knowledge of music theory prior, but most of what I learned was from that class. If you’re a musician in any respect…I’d recommend taking it if it’s offered in the future.”

One of Martin’s primary influences in his compositional journey has been AP Music Theory

teacher and CHS Band Director Thomas Vieira.

“[Mr. Vieira was] an excellent teacher really, which helped. Even if you really do enjoy something, if you have a bad teacher, it’ll ruin it, but he was an amazing teacher,” Martin expresses. “[Mr. Vieira] did push me to a degree to keep composing, which I’m glad for because then I went and did Interlochen [Center for the Arts for composing], too, and now I’m here.” Interlochen was a “rigorous” time for Martin, but he enjoyed it overall. During his time at Interlochen, “[I completed] five pieces that I wrote in the span of six weeks,” Martin notes, and he has since completed three pieces.

Regarding college, Martin has made the decision not to specifically pursue concert composition. “[I’m not going into] concert composition, mainly [because] I want to be able to eat food,” he admits. “The problem with concert composition is your main income source. Unless you get a job somewhere as a composer, which, to my knowledge, isn’t really a thing beyond being a court composer for the King of France,” Martin jokes. “It’s a lot of commission work, which is inconsistent… [It’s] not of interest to me.” Martin hasn’t given up on music entirely, however. “There’s a really good program that I’m almost certainly going to at this point at Western [Michigan University] for audio technology among other things,” Martin clarifies. “So, somewhere in that realm of audio tech is where I’ll be.” //

Photo: K. LaBarbera

Conducting Their Way to the Top

How three inspiring drum majors (and best friends) led the Trojan Marching Band.

By Finn Kennedy // Staff Writer

Drum majors are the leaders of high school marching bands, guiding both musicians and performers through rehearsals, performances, and the band experience. But their role goes beyond just musical leadership—they are also mentors, motivators, and friends. For the senior drum majors of 2025 - Bea Plum, Kinsey Hintz, and Stella Larrance - being in charge of the band is both a demanding task and a privilege.

Becoming a drum major is a huge responsibility, but all of the drum majors stepped into the role ready to face all the challenges. “I was inspired by the impacts that my past drum majors made on me…as a young underclassman,” Plum shares. Similarly, Hintz first had the goal of becoming section leader, and then pursued her dream of becoming drum major to help others. “I wanted to help build that community to help people feel the same sense of community that I felt when I first came in,” she reminisces. Larrance was motivated by a desire to support her peers and lead the band. “I saw a lot of things in band that I felt like I could improve on. If I didn’t do it, then no one else was gonna do it,” she notes. “I wanted to be a support system because I know how hard it is, especially on the first day of band camp.”

But along with all the rewards, drum major is a demanding role. This year, the drum majors attended a drum major camp at Michigan State for leadership and conducting. They continued to train throughout the year with their band director and hands-on practice with the band. As drum majors, they committed significantly more time

outside of practices to improve, especially during band camp and rehearsals. “[Band] takes a lot of effort and dedication,” Larrance remarks. “I think that a lot of people see it as just this fun thing that we get to do, and it is so much fun, but there is a lot of work and a lot of emotions that go into it, and I think that can be hard for some people.”

Larrance, Plum and Hintz have all found that band developed their leadership, teamwork, and social skills, making them feel prepared for future challenges, especially in college. “Going to college next year, I’m not scared at all, because I’ve been a part of multiple communities, including band. It has really helped me in social aspects,” Hintz shares.

Beyond sharing their high school marching band days together, this year’s drum majors are all attending Michigan State next fall. Plum plans to study crop and soil science and try to join their marching band. Hintz is aiming for pre-med studies, with a possibility of joining campus musical groups. Larrance is uncertain about continuing with marching band but is open to other musical opportunities in college while studying anthropology. No matter where their passions take them, this year’s drum majors illustrate the powerful impact they have, not only on the success of the band but on the personal growth of each member. “Marching band [isn’t] just one person; it’s a bunch of people working together, so I feel like it’s really helped me to be able to be a part of a community,” Plum concludes. //

Photo courtesy of B. Plum

Graphics: E. Hermel

Musical Motivation

The multitalented musician Jack Baird takes his final bow.

by Leo McAvoy // staff writer

Jack Baird has a variety of interests to show the world. From band to musical theatre to construction, plenty of things have come to interest him over the years. Lately, percussion has been one of his main interests. “I think the decision to stay in band was more important than the decision to join band because that's where all my friends are. I mean, all my friends were in band, and we've just grown musically together, which is great,” Baird reminisces. He only began to be involved in music at the start of middle school, but it has made a huge difference in his life. “I'd say my favorite part is the community and just being able to play together with all my friends and how it's impacted me,” Baird comments. He especially enjoys getting to feel like a leader and gaining more skills than he had initially imagined. He appreciates his opportunity to play such great amounts of instruments from being so heavily involved in percussion, a hobby and interest he finds to be quite cool and unique. For those planning on following a similar path, Baird advises: “The hardest part is just starting…you[‘ve] just got to get the experience under your belt once you do. It just goes from there.”

On top of percussion, Baird has also recently discovered an interest in musical theatre. “I wanted something to do over the winter, so I just tried out one day. And I didn't even tell [my] parents. I got home, and my parents were like, ‘Dude, where were you?’ And I was like, ‘Oh, I just tried out for theatre,’” he recalls. Similarly to band, his friends in the musical theatre world have made a significant impact on his appreciation of the theatre community, and it has made it an overall more fun experience for him. Baird got his start in a couple of productions here at Central, such as playing Cinderella’s father in Into the Woods and Evelyn Oakley in Anything

Goes. Many people have differing opinions on the best parts of being involved in musical theatre, and Baird has his opinion figured out as he relays his enjoyment in being able to “take up a character and bring it to life.” Although he hasn't been involved in this specific community for long, his passion in music drew him closer and closer to deciding to at last get a taste of the acting spotlight. “I had people saying, ‘Hey, you should join it. You should try out’. So, because I help out with the choir every now and then, playing percussion for them, both the choir director and kids in choir are like, 'Hey, you should try out for musical,’” he explains.

Graduating high school and moving on tends to be one of the most difficult yet important moments in life. The complicated part, though, comes when you have to decide what is best for you in the moment. Baird appears to have a solid starting plan for his first year out of high school. “I'm doing a year at NMC, the early college program. That's about as far as I've planned out so far,” Baird admits. Although he acknowledges he’s not 100% sure of where he’ll be going afterward, he made note of his plan to transfer to MSU for construction management. //

Photo courtesy of: Dinahmight Klicks

A Melodious Fit

Student musician Abi Umstead on her personal intertwinement with music.

by Jordan Teesdale // staff writer

Senior Abi Umstead has been involved in music since a very young age, with the encouragement of her grandmother and singing in her church’s choir as a child. Once she entered Middle School, she decided she wanted to try out for cello in the orchestra. “I really wanted to play the cello because I had a friend that played it, and I was just very intrigued in it,” Umstead begins. “I went in to interview to play the cello and because I kind of have a taller build and they kind of threw me on bass instead.” Once she held her bass, it changed her life for the better. “When I held a bass for the first time, It fit in with my body like a puzzle piece” Umstead recalls.

The Trojan orchestra quickly became a safe place for Umstead. “My favorite part about orchestra is the community that exists there,” Umstead remarks. “I have been playing with most of them since sixth grade, and I like being close with them. I feel like that's my safe community, and that's what I appreciate most.”

Orchestra was just the beginning for Umstead; as her musical talent began to spread outwards, she began performing outside of school as well: “I have played gigs at The Alluvion for jazz, I was hired for one wedding, and I also have been invited to play with a Traverse City a capella group called Trillium Groove,” Umstead lists. “I just started working with Old Town Playhouse in the pit there, and I play in the Civic Orchestra.” As well as local op-

portunities, orchestra has allowed her to travel abroad: “I had the opportunity to go to Europe [because] I was nominated by Mr. Vieira for Michigan Musicians Abroad, " Umstead continues. "I saved up all the money by myself by working my job, then last summer, I went to Europe, and that was honestly the most life changing experience I've ever had.”

To Umstead, music is more than just something ‘important’: “Everything I do revolves around it. It's my thing, and that's how I just keep going,” Umstead explains. “I mean, [during] middle school [and] high school, things were tough and I went through some stuff and I was trying to stay on my feet.” Despite having to deal with personal challenges, Umstead could always rely on music to get her through them: “The one thing I could always run to was my instrument, and so during my lunches and during my free hour, I go practice,” she reveals.

Thanks to music, Umstead found a safe place, as well as a community. After high school, Umstead plans to get her doctorate in Double Bass performance, and eventually go on to teach the instrument to students. “Stick with it and just push through it,” Umstead adds, “and in the end, the reward [will be] much greater.” //

Photo courtesy of: A. Umstead

Classics and Cuisines

Lucy Desmond’s two passions engage the senses.

by Leo McAvoy // staff writer

Lucy Desmond has spent a good portion of her high school career pursuing passions influenced by her family members. She is heavily involved in the world of orchestra, whether it be during school or on her own time in other community groups in Traverse City. “I went to a small private school. My music teacher there was Ms. Tobin, who I love so much, and she really encouraged it. And she runs a community orchestra for all ages in town, and that just cultivated it more.” Although orchestra has been a huge part of her life, she proves to be a multi-talented superstar.

Desmond began pursuing her interest in orchestra at a young age following in her sister’s footsteps: “I decided to join orchestra because I love violin. I’ve played violin since I was in fourth grade. I did not join the school orchestra for my first two years because of the conductor and then we changed conductors, and I joined my junior year, and I love it.” She elaborates on her further memorable moments in the music community, “My first concert here in this orchestra, I looked at myself in the reflection in the mirror I was like, ‘I look like [my older sister]. Playing here and in this orchestra was great and fun.”

No matter what she performs, she brings light to the stage; however, her interests don't end there. Desmond has expressed her interest in food science, which is a topic she plans to major in as she

moves on to the next chapter of her life at the University of Guelph in Ontario, Canada. “I know I want to study food science, so that narrowed down my college options a lot…which pointed me towards the University of Guelph and what I wanted to do more,” Desmond explains. “They are the top university in Canada and thirteenth in the world. They have a co-op program [consisting of] four separate internships throughout my years in college,” she elaborates. “ I was really attracted to the idea of making connections outside of college and to kind of boost my chances of getting a job and then also just learning hands on versus just in a lab.”

Recently, she has been exploring the world of food science at several local businesses. “I [recently] toured GoGo Squeez, the manufacturing plant we have here. I also met the head of the food science development plant here, and I interned last summer at the Leelanau Cheese Company—both of which have connections all around town,” she elaborates. Her post-high school plans are not quite what she originally envisioned, but Desmond is excited for her next steps. “My dream school was Cornell, and applying to Cornell itself is just trying to get over [the idea of] ‘oh, I’m not going to get in,’” she admits. “But I still applied. I didn’t get in, but whatever…Getting over the fear of putting yourself out there and applying…was fun. And I learned a lot.” //

Photo courtesy of: L. Desmond

Graphics by E. Hermel

Dressed to Impress and Perform Dressed to Impress and Perform

Lillian Taylor's eclectic talents bring joy to the world around her.

by Elaina Chippewa // staff writer

"A woman of many talents” perfectly sums up the gifted Lillian Taylor. Her artistic skills steal the show, whether you see her up on stage or walking down the hallway like she’s on the red carpet. She deeply believes fashion and music serve as an “outlet to express emotions.” The depth of her enthusiasm truly shines through in the contagious smile she carries, in the spotlight, and her everyday life.

Taylor reminisces on the spark of her passion for fashion, recalling its debut during the COVID pandemic: “I spent a lot of time in my room, and my dad said, ‘Everyone wears black all the time now,’ and I was like, ‘You're right! I should start wearing more color.’” As she initiated this journey of exploration, Taylor began realizing just how many clothes she had. She followed this by recounting what felt like a revelation: “If I've got it, why don't I try to utilize it?” Taylor points out. In just a matter of time, she found several aspects that allowed her to express herself in ways she never knew: “[The] versatility [is what intrigues me the most]" How everyone can have their own style. Some people are super alternative, [while others] are [whimsical]. I feel like it's important that everybody has their own style,” she explains.

Although she has thrived in the fashion world, Taylor also finds herself fitting into the worlds of music and writing. “When I was little, there was a song from Janet Jackson we would always listen to in the car,” she recollects. “I just remember riding along and looking out the window, thinking, ‘I'm a divorced mother of two.’ It just sparks imagination. Having music be an outlet for people's creativity piqued my curiosity.” Not only does she sparkle in the spotlight, as she did playing Mrs. Mayor in

Central’s production of Seussical, but she also dazzles the crowd behind the scenes with poetry and songwriting: “Sometimes [when I experience] big emotions, I process those feelings through my outlet of poetry,” she remarks. One of her favorite poems is one she wrote about that Janet Jackson memory, fittingly called An Ode to Janet Jackson: “It was what drove my feet to run / and my hands to create / Thank God for Janet Jackson.”

After graduation, Taylor plans on taking a gap year before attending Northwestern Michigan College. “I plan on exploring the world a little bit [and] working a lot because I need to save money,” she explains. Eventually, she hopes to transfer to Ferris, but she hopes that the next few years will reveal what she might do next. “These are all things that are preparing me to figure out what I wanna do with my life, because if I'm being honest, right now, I genuinely don't know,” she admits. “I've wanted to be a lot of things, but I've never known what I actually am comfortable with doing for the next thirty years of my life, which is a big decision, and it's scary.” Although Taylor has just begun her journey on the stage and the page, she doesn’t plan on stopping anytime soon. Fashion and music have transpired to be a part of her, only continuing to flourish to new heights. //

Photo

Photo courtesy of: L. Taylor

The Community of Theater

The experience of Liliana Sosa-Dunn participating in the local theater community and the effect it has on her.

by Kaleb Labarbera // staff writer

The curtains open and spotlights shine down as the crowd roars with applause. The Old Town Playhouse begins its production, and Liliana Sosa Dunn sings her heart out. Despite being new to Central this year, Sosa Dunn immediately found her people through musical theatre thanks to her involvement in Old Town Playhouse productions. “Acting in the shows there is genuinely the reason why I had the courage to transfer to Central and meet so many new people in the first place,” Sosa Dunn explains. “I definitely feel like the community at the Old Town Playhouse was definitely unmatched. I know school can feel very stressful sometimes, and it's really fun to just meet other kids at different schools who all love the same thing as you do.”

Sosa Dunn first got into theater in middle school: “ I was already pretty into music, but I auditioned for The Little Mermaid and…I genuinely had so much fun,” she recalls. “I really enjoyed what I was a part of. I enjoyed the dancing [and] the singing aspect. It just feels like such a genuine family and I just love how diverse these shows can be and how fun they are to perform.” While most people see the performance as the most important thing, Sosa Dunn finds that rehearsals are where the magic happens. “While you're learning about the show and about whatever role you're playing, you're also genuinely connecting with the people learning right alongside you, and you're all working together to make it a good production,” she remarks.

Of the roles she’s portrayed, Sosa Dunn’s favorite has been Jane Doe from Ride the Cyclone. “I really loved figuring out how to play a character who doesn't have a soul and…if they don't remember a single bit of their life, would they still want one?” she notes. “And getting to do that among a cast of characters that did remember their lives [had] lives. That was really enthralling to make up that story for her and to make up that character.”

Sosa Dunn has many people who helped her on her acting journey. “My parents definitely worked really hard to get me a lot of opportunities,” she expresses. “One of them being giving me a voice teacher, [Diane Clark]. She was actually the person who got me into the Old Town Playhouse in the first place. And if it wasn't for her, I would not have nearly as many opportunities as I do now that I'm a senior.” Along with the support of her parents and voice teacher, Sosa Dunn’s dedication helped her push forward to new roles in theater.

After high school, Sosa Dunn plans to attend Northwestern Michigan College for her first two years and figure out what she wants to pursue, but she intends on still performing in Old Town Playhouse shows and perfecting her craft. “I can still get a little more training in dance and acting. And then I want to transfer to a university or a conservatory that's better suited for pursuing musical theater professionally,” she concludes. //

Photo courtesy of: L. Sosa Dunn

An Honest Expression of Emotions

Kat

Smith on developing her eclectic art style.

by Jordan Teesdale // staff writer

On any given day, one might spot senior Kat Smith strolling from F Wing, art in tow, tucked under her arm as she heads to class. Smith has always had a deep connection with art, but it wasn’t until she entered high school that she wanted to pursue it on a different level. “I just got really inspired by nature, people around me, looking into artists, learning some art history…looking at the beauty around us, and trying to translate that into some expression,” Smith elaborates.

Smith has tried many different mediums during her time as an artist, but sometimes, the simplest things shine brighter than any others. “My favorite medium is probably just graphite pencils. Something real basic,” she notes. Prior to starting at Central, Smith attended Greenspire, where they did not offer any art classes. Once she arrived at Central, though, she indulged in the many opportunities that the Central Art Department has to offer. “I've taken drawing a few times, painting a few times, and I also took AP Studio,” she lists.

For Smith, art is the most powerful form of expression. “Art is sometimes the truest form of expressing our emotions, you know, trying to translate an experience or a feeling into something visual,” Smith details. “I think it’s just really honest, and I think that’s helped. It’s really helped me get through a lot of stuff.”

Art has also opened doors for Smith; “You get to connect with a lot of people when you share your art. I've also gotten to be in exhibits, which is fun, like district [art] shows and Frankfurt shows…that’s a great opportunity to have.” As she grew as an artist, Smith found inspiration in others. “I really like Pace Taylor.

They’re a contemporary artist, they work in oil pastels, and they just make really honest and raw art about the queer experience, and I just think it’s really beautiful,” she reveals. This influence has shaped her own approach to creating art that speaks to personal experiences.

Looking ahead, Smith plans to attend Mount Holyoke College in Western Massachusetts. “I’m not doing an art major, but I am interested in studying art history and pursuing visual art as an interest,” Smith shares. While not pursuing a career in art, she’s excited to keep it as an outlet for her creativity. “I definitely [will] keep [art] as a hobby,” she confirms. Smith encourages any struggling artists; "It's hard to feel successful or that you're doing art right, but I'd say that there's no way to do art right. Don’t compare yourself to others. If it’s honest, if you're doing it because you want to do it, if you're enjoying the process, then you're making something that’s worth it. It’s worthwhile.” //

Photos courtesy of: K. Smith

Electrifying Experience

Madison Vandenberg’s riveting robotics story.

by Sean Humphrey // staff writer

Madison Vandenberg, Electrical Subject Matter Expert for the RAPTORS, has been with the robotics team since her sophomore year and has loved every minute of it since. “I had always had an interest in STEM, and my older brother was involved in robotics briefly, so I always knew that there was an opportunity that I would like to have, [too],” she explains, “[so] as soon as I met the team members and got an idea of the culture of the team, I just loved it so much and I became so immersed in robotics [that] I just never wanted to leave,” Vandenberg states proudly.

The three seasons Vandenberg participated in during high school took a lot of time and effort on her part, with meetings after school daily from 5:00 to 8:00pm and on Saturdays from 10:30am to 5:00pm, which took up a significant amount of her time. “It definitely hasn't made anything easier. I am a pretty academically rigorous student. I take AP classes, college classes and I have a very busy schedule,” she remarks. “It speaks a lot towards my passion for robotics that on top of that I still make time every day to stay until at least 8:00 p.m. to work on an extracurricular that has nothing to do with my GPA, except for tanking it, obviously.”

Vandenberg also credits robotics with broadening her horizons for the future: “It has shown me that there's a lot more in the world [and] there's something bigger past high school,” she reflects. “It confirmed for me that I did want to pursue something in the STEM field because I was so

excited by everything that we do in robotics.” She also is grateful for how the team has affected her social groups and helped her expand her circle of friends. “Another aspect of robotics is that you hang out [with] and you meet people that you otherwise would never have interacted with in high school…[Some] people might see me as the ‘weird kid’ because…there's that stereotype of the whole nerd thing, but I don't care. Robotics is cool,” she asserts.

Thanks to her involvement in the STEM program at Central, Vandenberg plans to continue pursuing STEM and robotics post-high school as well: “At the moment, I am an early college student enrolled at NMC, so I will be staying for my 13th year to finish up my associates degree before I transfer to a four year university,” she notes. “It might be Michigan Tech. I've always known, even before I joined the robotics team, that I wanted to pursue STEM and being on the robotics team has only confirmed that for me.” Vandenberg plans to study chemical engineering and material science for her majors, but after the positive impact of robotics on her high school career, Vandenberg wants to continue participating beyond Central’s team with a minor in robotic engineering and “contribut[ing] to the FIRST community more as a mentor so that I can help ensure the next generation of students in STEM,” Vandenberg states excitedly. //

Photo courtesy of: Raptors

Graphics by E. Hermel

Putting the 'Eli' in STEM

STEM student Eli Richardson’s experience with the STEM program through projects and progress.

by Landon Willett // staff writer

Over the last four years, Eli Richardson has been following his passions through the different STEM opportunities here at Central. STEM often consists of hands-on classes and lets students see these subjects in a real world situation. The STEM Program is for students who want to develop more in these subjects, and Richardson is one of them. “So I joined the STEM program because I've always been into STEM. I did TAG at elementary school, and then through middle school, I did all of the engineering and shop classes,”

Richardson reflects. “I always knew I wanted to get into STEM, and I always did it at my house. I knew that I would get the most out of the STEM program compared to any other of the elective classes. ”

Some may think STEM would be hard to master, but it's actually quite the opposite: “What surprised me the most would be how quickly I picked it up. I actually skipped the Engineering One class [and] went straight to Engineering Two,” he recounts. “I was kinda worried about catching up, but it's pretty easy to get used to all the CAD stuff. And…if you have any prior experience, it's really easy to pick up the STEM stuff.”

Richardson has been in the STEM program for quite some time and therefore has done many projects that tackle real world problems and situations. “A lot of what we did would be some of the smaller 3D printing [and] experiments,” he explains. “We did mouse trap cars. We did 3D printed race cars that went down the track.”

Richardson has done many projects over the years, but one stands out as his most prized experiment: “3D printing watertight end caps for a submarine…was really fun. We actually got to make a physical product and then test it in a bath of water and see if any water got in,” he notes. STEM can be a major part in your life as it gets you mentally prepared for college and future jobs, which is one of Richardson’s key takeaways

from his STEM experiences at Central. “Academically, STEM definitely gets you more involved in the math side of things. It gets you better at using computers, which is really useful nowadays in school,” he points out. “And it overall gets your mind thinking in a…critical thinking way. And that definitely helps in school.” Along with math, problem solving has been an integral part of his STEM classes and projects as well. “You end up with a lot of getting yourself stuck in a corner. You gotta learn all of the ways you can get out of those corners,” he observes. After graduation, Richardson plans on attending Michigan Tech to pursue becoming a robotics engineer, thanks to his time in STEM at Central. //

Photo courtesy of: E. Richardson

Ms. Worldwid

Keira Wesley celebrates beingthe

frst Trojan in school historyto earn the Michigan and Global Seals of Biliteracy.

ByJordan

Teesdale // Staff Writer

Keira Wesley grew up in Fremont, California, a culturally diverse city where many people speak multiple languages, Spanish being one of them. “The main thing that I remember about growing up there was there [were] a lot of Spanish speakers,” Wesley recalls, “and I really was interested in at least learning a different language, and Spanish was the one I was exposed to the most. I started Spanish in elementary school and then I kept with it until high school.”

Wesley has her sights set on languages, with hopes to learn all of the Romantic languages, including French, Italian, and Romanian, as well as studying multiple languages in the future. “I am going to Michigan State in the fall, and I'm going to major in linguistics, which is the study of languages and how they've evolved,” Wesley states. “I would like to do some kind of research in language development and how dying languages work and how…languages affect our culture.“ Along with her studies at Michigan State University, Wesley also hopes to someday work in a Spanish speaking country to further solidify her proficiency.

In the state of Michigan, students have the opportunity to earn a Michigan Seal of Biliteracy on their diploma, and Wesley is the sole Central High School graduate to have ever earned this distinction. This award didn’t come easy, though. “So there's usually a few tests you'll have to take to get the Michigan Seal of Biliteracy. I got to bypass those just because I took the exam for AP Span-

ish Language,” Wesley explains. ”I passed the AP Spanish language exam with a five, and you need a score of a five to get that Seal of Biliteracy if you don't want to take the tests that they require.” After acing the AP Spanish exam, Wesley received the seal in the mail for her future diploma. “[This] certifies that I am proficient in two different languages,” Wesley continues. In addition to the Michigan seal, Wesley also was awarded a Global Seal of Biliteracy. “I had to show them that I was proficient with my AP exam score, and then again, they mailed me a little certificate,” she adds.

Speaking Spanish can open a lot of opportunities for jobs, as well as traveling, and both are opportunities that Wesley is looking forward to in her future. “Just knowing how to speak multiple languages is so useful,” she claims. “Maybe you're in a different country that speaks the language that you know, [and then] you can interact with the locals. You can interact with anybody because you have that knowledge.” For those who want to pursue their passion for foreign languages beyond the TCAPS requirements, Wesley encourages them to be persistent. “It's really easy to give up in the beginning, because you feel so overwhelmed by the amount of stuff that you don't know,” Wesley advises “Don't give up; keep at it.” //

Photo Courtesy K. Wesley

Photo Courtesy K. Wesley

Making Their Final Motion

By Kailyn Groves // Content Editor

Model UN, Central’s version of United Nations, has created a unique community within the school. Of Central’s many clubs, Seniors Kostas Tsoukalas and Danielle Finch have found that Model UN has been a bright spot in their high school experience. Tsoukalas was recruited by language teacher Bryn Lynch to do Model UN, but he was reluctant at first. “She and I used to talk about conspiracy theories or politics in Spanish,” Tsoukalas recalls. After Lynch proposed that he take on a role in Model UN, “I initially turned her down, and then I took her up on the offer and ended up joining and really enjoying it,” he admits. Tsoukalas has created many memories over the past two years with the group, particularly the connections he’s built with other students, as well as researching foreign countries. “I like defending them and making some sort of argument…that's not super serious,” he elaborates. “My favorite part…is when there's a heated debate [and] when there's a little bit of animosity in the room.” Tsoukalas’ favorite countries to represent in Model UN are Greece and Qatar. “Both of them are decently prominent in politics, but they're not super well known and people aren't super knowledgeable on the topics,” Tsoukalas claims.

Similarly to Tsoukalas, Danielle Finch got involved in Model UN by circumstance, but it didn’t always excite her. “I kind of heard about it on random TV shows, but I never really [got] interested,” Finch admits. “And then I started looking into it, and my aunt was actually in Model UN. And she was telling me about it when she was in

high school and college.” While attending a Model UN meeting in Finch’s sophomore year, the other members talked about assigning countries and topics and how to go about researching them, something that Finch has always been passionate about. From there, she fell in love with Model UN. For Finch, her favorite country she has represented is Denmark. “I really liked Denmark because it was a Scandinavian country, and their policies are a lot more liberal,” Finch claims.

Both Finch and Tsoukalas find that the most rewarding part of their Model UN experience has been finding a close community within the realm of politics and political debate. “A lot of the friendships that I formed, I already knew them outside of Model UN, but I wasn't really friends with them,” Finch remarks, “and then having to share rooms with them and work together with them…it really helped [us] become even closer.” Tsoukalas finds that the connections he has made with students from other schools has been a unique way to form friendships. “You make some friendships with people…that are from a different life. A lot of people are downstate or some are Canadian or some are from Illinois. You usually make your friends based on countries that have similar policies to you,” he clarifies, “so, it's kind of fun getting to know someone like that.” //

Photo Courtesy B. Lynch

Kostas Tsoulkalas and Danielle Finch find their purpose through Model UN.

Proud to Serve

Co-NHS Presidents Caroline Henkel and Annie Goldkuhle develop their leadership skills through Central's biggest volunteer organization

By Elaina Chippewa Staff Writer

The virtue of leadership isn’t a given: it’s worked for. Caroline Henkel and Annie Goldkuhle are firm examples of the dedication and passion it takes to be a leader. Henkel and Goldkuhle took the dive right into the National Honors Society as soon as the opportunity for leadership positions became available in their sophomore year. Ever since their induction, they have taken the initiative, earning themselves the honor of higher positions, with Henkel being the NHS historian in her junior year and both of them becoming co-presidents during senior year. Although, at the surface level, many people assume that joining NHS only benefits college applications, but that is the furthest from the truth.

Henkel and Goldkuhle became enticed by the contributions NHS pays the community. “I originally chose it because I wanted to put myself out there and embody more leadership qualities,” describes Henkel, “but then I did it for the second year because I really liked the impact that I had on the community.” On the same note, Goldkuhle reiterates: “I chose to join NHS because it's a really great club to get involved with your community and to help out.” Simply by listening to their personal missions, anybody can see the good in their morals and characters—they have grown to hold something admirable, paving the way for the next generation of leaders. Through their commitment to NHS, they have found great pride in some of their milestones in both the organization and in their personal lives. “Through NHS and Key Club, I've accumulated over two hundred hours of service, which I'm pretty proud of,” Henkel explains. Goldkuhle, on the other hand,

is grateful for the leadership experience: “[I believe] my greatest achievement has been being elected to be co-president of NHS and having that opportunity to be a leader in NHS,” Goldkuhle remarks.

Inevitably, when taking on such a significant role, there will be road bumps along the way; however, little challenges shouldn’t be enough to stop someone from pushing through. Henkel and Golkuhle embody that morale—their undertaking is a lot, but it has never halted their journey in becoming the best versions of themselves. They only hope to inspire others to do the same. “I've learned that it doesn't take a lot to put a smile on people's faces,” Goldkuhle expresses. “Whenever I volunteer anywhere, even if it's just for an hour or thirty minutes, everyone's always super appreciative of it.” The seemingly tedious amount of service hours can seem daunting, but Henkel finds it rewarding: “Sometimes it seems very inaccessible or [that] it's so much work to volunteer, but…I feel like people always need help,” she notes. “Don't be scared by the minimum of fifteen service hours because it is seriously not a lot. it's super easy to achieve, and it shouldn't be something that stops you from joining NHS.”

Both Henkel and Goldkuhle strive to carry their leadership skills into the real world, starting with navigating the bridge into their college years; their friendship and life goals have brought them both to the University of Michigan after graduation. Henkel plans on studying biology, health, and society on a pre med track, with the ultimate goal of going into ophthalmology, and Goldkuhle will be majoring in chemistry. No matter where life takes them, they are bound for success! //

Photo Courtesy C. Henkel

Regrowing Central's Community

Roxy McClellan looks back on her years in Senate.

By Jade McGraw // Staff Writer

As the school year comes to a close, Senate Governor Roxy McClellan reflects on her last four years in student leadership. McClellan has been a driving force behind many of the student government’s most successful events. “In my role, there's a lot of challenges that will come up quickly and have to be resolved quickly within a certain period of time,” McClellan explains. “So it's important to be attentive and always knowing what's going on within the Senate, and not be afraid to ask for help from other people, whether it's adults or other senators.” For her, collaboration has been essential. “Coming together is a really important part of the Senate, and we've overcome a lot of different difficulties just by working together,” she remarks, “...always working together and collaborating has been the primary way to resolve challenges.”

Despite the challenges, McClellan says the best part of her role is seeing the joy her work brings to others. “It’s really rewarding to hear good things come back from events for different themes or anything that we do within the Senate,” she expresses. “When I see people come together through the events and the activities we do, it's very rewarding seeing something that we worked hard to put together come to life and other people getting to be able to enjoy it, like dances.”

One of the accomplishments McClellan is most proud of is the bond built between Senate members. “Each year, the group of senators that comes in is very friendly and kind, but we don't

know each other well. And then, by the end of the year, everyone loves each other, and we're like a family,” she reflects. “So I think my favorite thing is just watching the progression of our relationships get better and better throughout the school year.”

McClellan plans to attend the University of Michigan for business school, where she believes the communication skills she’s gained from Senate will be helpful. “There’s a lot of communication within business,” McClellan reveals. “Being able to communicate with different people from so many different areas has been very helpful and will help me going forward.” Balancing Senate duties with academics has been a challenge, but McClellan’s secret is staying organized, driven, and thoughtful. “It's important to find ways to help. Everything that you can do in the Senate yourself will help the greater good,” she comments. As for her impact, she hopes she’s left behind a strong foundation. “I hope that I've set up senators for next year to be able to continue to put on the same events and do the same things even better,” she acknowledges. And while there are things she might have done differently, McClellan values every experience. “One event could be absolutely amazing to one person and horrible to another. I don't regret any of it, because it has taught myself and other senators a lot. We are constantly learning and growing from mistakes and constantly building off of the things that we've already done.” //

Photo Courtesy R. McClellan

What's the most memorable thing from high school?

I really loved beIng at the football games in the student section. You really feel part of the communIty. -angelIna chouinard

I got picked to do one of the challenges at the pep assembly, the carpet one. that was pretty fun. me and my team won. -phillip hittle

Who impacted your high school life the most?

probably the communitY in the choIr and musIcal programs. -emerY luYt

the wrestling team. I joIned and I've been the only girl for three years. It's been a really great time. all the boYs are super sweet, even if theY act like theY're not. -paIsleY suba

April ‘25 favorite issue

Sean

Humphrey staff writer

These past four years have been the most challenging and most important years of my life. I’ve grown so much and still feel that I have so much more to become. I’m not sure that the course I’ve set is right, but I have enough faith in myself to know that I will manage to figure it out. All I can say is, don’t let others stop you from becoming who you want to be. Prioritize yourself, and don’t sacrifice what is important to you for the happiness of others. Remember that discomfort fuels forward motion through growth. Live your life and be yourself; it’s not worth letting others get in your head. It’s your life, not theirs. Just be you, and everything will work out. This is a time to figure out who you want to be, hopefully with some sort of safety net to catch you. It’s perfectly okay to not be sure who you are or what you want to do - it’s all messy and almost everyone else is going through the same things you are. It's okay to be your own person and to be different from the mainstream. These years are tough on everyone, some friends will come and go over time, and that’s natural. I know I have experienced my fair share of shifting social circles and losing friends I thought I wouldn’t. High school can be messy, but just know that it’s messy for everyone. //

November ‘24

favorite issue

High school is a journey full of plenty of ups and downs, self-discoveries, mini existential crises, and much, much more. It becomes a journey of both discovering yourself and discovering all the things wrong with you, but at the same time, it's a time in your life that will never be forgotten. When the senioritis started to hit before I was even a senior, I knew I’d always have my friends by my side to make me feel comforted, even if I was too overwhelmed to interact with them, or felt lonely either way. Regardless of this, I’ve had plenty of positive, amazing memories come out of these past 4 years that have shaped me into who I am today. I’ve grown into an even more creative person than I imagined, with my top passions being music and fashion. Although school has tended to dim my spark and make me lose all patience, that doesn’t change the fact that I will forever miss these years, regardless of how much I’ve complained over the years. Even when it starts to feel impossible to keep going, no matter how you go about it, there are still ways to get back on your feet, even if it takes a ton of effort and feels like you’ll never reach the point you most desire. //

Eliana Hermel

editor-in-chief

4 years spent in class March '23 favorite issue

15 stories written 2024-2025 favorite year of the class

I still remember walking into Central High School for the first time as a student. I was late to my first day of freshman year, so it really wasn’t a great start. Walking into my first class without knowing anyone was terrifying; 14-year-old me was very startled by their curious faces when looking in my direction. However, I learned very quickly that the people in that class, the Black and Gold Quarterly, were kind and funny. I still stayed quiet like I often did, but I observed my classmates as we crafted our magazine to its finest. Gradually, I came out of my shell and I got to know the people in the class.

As high school went on, I began to tell more and more people about the BGQ. I quickly learned that many people aren’t even aware of its existence, so I made sure people were aware when a new issue came out every quarter. The BGQ is my favorite for many reasons: writing has always been and continues to be one of my most treasured hobbies, I love the freedom of it, Ms. Roskelley is an awesome teacher. The list goes on. I would recommend this class to literally anyone who is even remotely interested in writing or journalism; the skills I have acquired in this class are not only monumental, but necessary for success. Additionally, it’s just been a very enjoyable experience for me.

Aside from BGQ, I had a lot of great memories from high school. It’s definitely been difficult, and some things I will not miss, but I still appreciate everything that has happened to me these last four years. I have won awards, lost friends, procrastinated heavily, written 15 stories, drawn countless graphics, moved to the other side of town… and now I’m going to college.

Finally, I want to close with what I requested my senior quote to be. It was a quote from George Orwell’s novel 1984, which reads, “Perhaps one did not want to be loved so much as to be understood.” Sometimes I wonder if I really made the right choice when I chose that as my senior quote. However, I’m satisfied with it now; I realize that this quote truly encompasses what I value in a person. I am grateful to have found people during my time in high school who don’t just look at me, but see me; these people understand me. It can be easy to love a person, but to understand them is entirely different. As we go our separate ways, and I leave Traverse City Central High School behind, I hope that anyone who is reading this can find those people in your life: the ones who see you, not just look at you. //

Morgan Hill

content editor

2 years spent in class Feburary '25 favorite issue 12 storites written 2024-2025 favorite year of the class

I’ve only been a part of the BGQ for two years, and it’s been a blast while it’s lasted. I’ve been interested in writing ever since I was a little kid. Drawing, in addition to writing, has been a passion of mine, but like the contrast between movies and books, there’s always a wider range of imagination that comes with using your brain to create images and stories rather than an already created image. Hence, I’ve focused more on creative writing and general journaling. I don’t think I’ve ever been that great of a speaker in most cases, but this class has shown me the extent of my speaking abilities while talking to influential people. This class has also demonstrated how one simple idea can expand into a story that could’ve been completely unexpected during initial drafts.

I think this class has given me a sanctuary from the rest of my classes. It’s given me a place where I can rest after a long day of desk work and before an exhausting running practice session. The class for me was basically a free hour with some extra work that needed to be done, and that work was essentially creative writing, so it didn’t really feel like work. I remember having hard times then coming to class to talk to my friends. Those were good times.

Being a part of this club, in addition to the long distance running program and the choir, I’ve had a very busy four years. With so many responsibilities, I’m glad I ended up taking this class, and I’m proud of the progress I’ve made in my quality and experience in writing. There were moments of stress with finaling on time, but the final product has always been pleasing. For that, I’d like to thank Susan Roskelley for being an amazing advisor and English teacher. I’d like to thank Kathryn Shelley-Barnes for recommending the class to me. I’d like to thank Eliana for pushing me to join the class, and a bunch of my friends for joining the class. I’d like to thank last year’s seniors – Sam, Liz, Lucy, and Kristen – for being good peers. I’d like to thank Bridget for being fun to pick on and talk to, and Kailyn for starting the class with me in junior year. //

Kailyn Groves

content

editor

2

years spent in class April ‘25 favorite issue

storites written 2024-2025 favorite year of the class

I’ve always had an attachment to writing. Since I had access to a school computer, I would create all kinds of stories and scenarios and spill my imagination out on a living document that would come to life. From elementary school to current day, I have used writing to my advantage to express myself; using words as imagery to how my brain works.

Going into my junior year of high school, I signed up to do the school newspaper—or other ways known as the BGQ. I can’t say I was always interested in journalism, let alone the BGQ as a class. Almost dropping out of the class, I was oblivious to the accomplishments I would face the next two years. As obvious as it portrays, I’m still in this class and have many regrets of not joining the class as a first-year student.

Inside writing, I have undergone a lot of struggles just as much as successes. As much of an accomplishment as it is already to write four stories for the school newspaper during my first year in the class, I never thought I’d see myself win a $1,500 scholarship for my story “The Digital Divide.” I ended my junior year feeling like I accomplished more than I ever did. Entering my senior year, I was handed the opportunity to write for the Northern Express Newspaper and was published in their March issue this past spring. Now ending my senior year, I final my 14th story in the two years I’ve been involved with the newspaper.

Outside of writing, I decided to join the TCC Bowling Team as an underdog. Little did I know I’d end the bowling season at the first spot in the girl’s conference; bowling an average of 132 pins per game. The honor of being nominated for student of the month for the second year in a row, has given me the opportunity to feel more than just good, but recognized and seen for more than just my value but my will to do my best.

As my high school playlist comes to its last song, I look back at my struggles that I’ve had to push through throughout high school. As hard as it has been to deal with emotional and mental challenges, it has ultimately made me stronger. Now ending out my year, I can proudly say that I have pushed through some of the toughest parts of my life. I am now planning to attend GRCC (Grand Rapids Community College) for two years before transferring to UW-Madison to pursue journalism. I want to leave Central with my footprint in the halls of the school, and it feels especially unreal to leave a legacy behind in BGQ. Keep on keeping on. //

January ‘25

favorite issue

Elaina Chippewa staff writer

High school is full of unpredictable highs and lows, but it has been an adventure worth remembering. I came to Central in my sophomore year—my nerve-wracking return, having been out of school since my seventh grade year. but then my worries halted when I heard a familiar voice and a smiling face, one which changed the trajectory of my high school years. That day, I was reunited with my “sister from another mister,” Kailyn. Before I knew it, I was face-to-face with my other crazy best friend, Leo, and from there, I felt ready to take on this big stride. Despite my newly found level of ease, it didn’t change the inevitable—I was still faced with the road bumps of high school. On the social aspect, I was definitely behind everybody else. I placed myself on the line between feeling secluded and putting myself out into the world. I literally told the person I liked about my feelings on Valentine’s Day, but hey, I get a good laugh about it now. There were times when I was at my lowest, and there were times when I was in the clouds of happiness. High school brings lots of changes and unknowns, along with the struggles of life in general, but it all made me more thankful for those who were there from the start, and those who I found along the way. The ones who are by your side are far more important than those who show you hate. So, thank you, Kailyn, Leo, Ellie, Maddie, Liliana, Ella, Victoria, Haily, Adri, Greyson, Nik, even you, Morgeth, and all my non-senior friends, for making me feel safe enough to be myself. //

May ‘25 favorite issue

Jordan Teesdale staff

writer

Being a teenager sucks, doesn’t it? With the weight of high school, needing to get a job, and getting your licence, it becomes quite the drag. Looking back to the past four years, the person I was as a freshman is shocking. I had an ugly, choppy haircut, and I hung out with people who didn’t really like me. They liked the mask that I hid myself behind, and it was insanely damaging to my psyche. Entering my senior year, I came to the realization that I need to choose me—not the people I want to impress or be friends with—me. I needed to love myself and those who love me. Making that decision was one of the smartest things I’ve ever done. Getting the toxic people out of my life, and finding those who actually liked the real me, and love me for who I am. Gray Dungjen, Nik Hatton, Alyssa Tolin, Shannon Remy, Keith Slius, and Jason Witeveen, thank you. I love you all so much. Thank you for making my senior year something that I’ll never ever forget. To those who feel like they’re struggling: everything will be okay, you are loved, never forget who you are, and never EVER change who you are for somebody else. //

2024-2025 BGQ Staff

Eliana Hermel - Editor In Chief

Morgan Hill - Content Editor

Kailyn Groves - Content Editor

Sean Humphrey - Staff Writer

Elaina Chippewa - Staff Writer

Leo McAvoy - Staff Writer

Jordan Teesdale - Graphics Editor

Bridget Belden - Editor in Chief

Kaleb LaBarbera - Staff Writer

Landon Willett - Staff Writer

Parker Ziegler - Staff Writer

Kerrigan Jenkins - Staff Writer

Finn Kennedy - Staff Writer

Jade McGraw - Staff Writer

Myah McCotter - Staff Writer