Senior Issue, the Black & Gold, Volume 93

full spectrum black & gold senior issue

Volume ninety-three // may twentieth, two thousand and Fourteen // traverse city central high school

two

May 20, 2014

index

inside

3-7, 10-13, 18-19, 21-24//submissions 8-9// future plans 14//awards & commendations 15//in ten years 16-17//rendezvous 20// student quotes 25//retirees 26//teacher advice 27-28//ads 29-31//thank yous 32//the leek “You are educated. Your certification is in your degree. You may think of it as the ticket to the good life. Let me ask you to think of an alternative. Think of it as your ticket to change the world.�

-Tom Brokaw

staff

Editors-in-Chief Ivy Baillie David Reinke News Editor David Reinke Production Editor Ivy Baillie Opinion Editor Emma Caldwell

Cover Photos: Blue and Pink//Scott Hardin, Green and Yellow//Anders Olson Folio Photos: 10, 11, 13, 14, 16, 17, 28 // Scott Hardin, 2-9//Anders Olson, 15, 18-25//Jake Myers, 12, 26-31//Meg Caldwell

Feature Editor Lia Williams A&E Editor Fiona Muha Sports Editor Erin Lipp Focus Page Editor Allison Taphouse

Leek Editors Scott Hardin Jake Myers Business Manager Zach Egbert Photo Editors Meg Caldwell Scott Hardin

Graphics Editor Alex Korson Staff Reporters Jeff Comerford Connor Hansen Margo Hoagg Dylan Huey Shaine Kearney Hunter Kelly Grayson Lowe George Madison

Maddi Miller John Minster Sean Monnier Matt Neumann Anders Olson Carl Rasmussen Fletcher Reyher Josie Robbins Hayley Rozema Aaron Smits Julia Vannatter Brianna Worthington

three

May 20, 2014

submissions

Confessions of my mop-top Back in eighth grade, my frizzy hair, coupled with braces and terrible acne, made me the saddest looking stereotype in my homeschooled class of one. I was a dork, a loner—I knew this, without anyone having to tell me.

But I snapped. It might have been the heat of the burgeoning summer getting to my head, but one day I grabbed the pair of kitchen scissors, stormed up to my bathroom and, in full-fledged teenage rebellion, chopped off my weighty brown locks.

It looked just about as horrible as you would think. I was still the kid with braces and acne, ivy baillie editor-in-chief chubby but now I had a hairstyle that looked like it was some rad-punk Under the sink in my bathroom affair, circa 1980s London. I lies an empty box that reads 40 kinda liked the statement. vol. bleach, right next to the half Lately I’ve taken to rereading empty bottles labeled Lavender the only diary I ever kept, which Blue and Cotton Candy Pink. mostly highlights moments from Dyeing my hair has turned into a several hour ordeal. I bleach my those incredibly embarrassing middle school years. And I realroots first, and the smell reminds ized that I didn’t need to keep a me of dirty horse stables and a diary after my frizzy hair days. clean kitchen counter. It stings My hair is my diary. my head; 40 vol. is the highI started ninth grade with octane lightener.

//

cam young

// guest artist

Title of piece: Margerie What was your inspiration for this piece?

I went on a week-long cruise to Alaska. We stopped in the Glacier Bay National Park for three days.

When we took a hike, we stopped to take photos of the glaciers.

Can you describe the process of making it?

I took a lot of photos, but this one was really clear and showed the color of the ice. The angle was cool

a story already written on my hair—that I was brave, wild, deviant.

My poor hair took the brunt of my freshman anxieties; after a bad day at school feeling like nobody understood me, I would take a pair of scissors and trim my hair down again.

And maybe it was this constant change that empowered me, or my own maturity, but I started to like that my hair got there before the rest of me.

I started to like that person I was writing on my hair. I’ve had two-toned mohawks, pink hair, ½ inch long hair, bleached hair, bad looking hair. I’ve heard people say that my hair looks different every day, and they are probably right. My hair can speak for me when I don’t have the voice just yet.

When I look at my hair and its stain of candy-pink dye that I don’t want to fade, I see who I have become. With every experimental cut and color, I’m creating an outward display of the artist I am inside.

because you saw the whole face of the glacier. To capture the whole thing, you had to back into the water or go on the ridge, which they didn’t want us to do. I didn’t edit any of the photos at all.

How is your art/piece unique?

I usually shoot landscapes, but this was unique because it gave a glimpse of something not too common in a location not many people have the opportunity to experience.

What materials went into it?

I used a Canon 60D in normal Landscape mode.

Tunes for thought: a playlist David Reinke // editor-in-chief I’ve spent all year writing reviews for albums of various genres--some I’ve enjoyed, others I have endured, the rest I have detested. I’ve often felt that the music one listens to denotes their character, at least a bit. So where other people will write about their feelings, I will write about the music that can say so much more.

I’ll get the most embarrassing one out of the way first.

“Lost For Words” by Pink Floyd is my breakup song. Way back in 2012, Ivy and I (yes, I dated a co-worker) went out for a whole month. She and I abruptly broke up (yes, it was awkward for a very long time) and seeking an emotional outlet (it was, like, so devastating) I turned to the ever-helpful Pink Floyd. The song even has the word “Ivy” in it. It’s almost like it was written for me.

“Lost For Words” represents the pinnacle of my lameness, but even more so, it has always been a comfort to me in times when I need to hide in the back of my head and brood like a girl.

The theme of “brooding” shows up often in my playlists. “How to Disappear Completely” by Radiohead is another one which I rely on for an emotional outlet. The connection I have with it, though, is less about insignificant problems and has more to do with the period of depression I went through.

The song perfectly captures the feeling of uselessness--for me, that means a third-person visual of myself sinking into my surroundings. I have since tried to capture it in my art--to no avail, but no matter what, this song will always be the quintessential example.

Yet another sad song will make its way onto my list, but for me it represents my youngest memories. It’s

called “Timothy” by Dada, and it’s about a young boy whose mother and father are so successful that they don’t pay attention to him. This in no way relates to my real life, but the bridge is one of the saddest things you will ever hear. When I was smaller it was simply beautiful. My Dad used to play the full album that this song appears on. Eventually, it became ingrained into my mind as a car ride with the windows rolled down, wind rushing into my face.

All these songs have one thing in common; each one has a memory connected to it. The last song, Supergrass’ “Tales of Endurance (Pts. 4, 5 & 6),” is more of a motivational track than a crutch. You know how Indie movie trailers or road trip movie trailers will often have an adventurous sounding accompaniment?

Well this song is the trailer song of my life. The multifaceted track just gets my shoulders popping.

I’ll wrap this up by confessing that making a four song list is probably the most difficult composition I will ever have to write. If I had my way, there would be closer to a hundred songs. Alas, these four epitomize the last four years of my life. I’m sure my college playlist will be even more eclectic.

four

May 20, 2014

submissions

Waking up in Jamaica as a new person

Fiona muha

// a&e editor

“Do you have a pen?”

Poke.

“Do you have a pen?”

The woman’s heavy Jamaican accent and the incessant jabbing jolts me from my customs and immigration forms. I surrender my pen immediately, a little afraid. She returns to the paperwork as I gaze past her through the window, reveling in the sparkling, turquoise water and the warm sun. I know this adventure will change my life.

Along with my mother, my best friend, and a dozen people from my church,

two years ago I traveled to the Jamaican Blue Mountains above Kingstown to the City of Refuge Children’s Home. This former-hotel-turned-orphanage rests on the mountaintop, and from it, you can see all of Kingstown.

Stray dogs prowl the city streets and goats roam the rural roads. My companions lament the emaciated animals—nearly brought to tears over these suffering creatures. I sympathize, but even more shocking, infuriating, devastating to me, are the conditions the Jamaican children endure.

Our journey from the airport to the City of Refuge is long. And our small-town affluence has not prepared us for the dirt roads winding through the mountains, where at some points the single lane whips around the blind corner of a sheer cliff. But despite my white-knuckled grip and cold sweat, we arrive safely.

My first trip outside the US and it’s more than the paradise I expected.

After church on Sunday, the children swarm. Surrounding us, they feel our clothing and touch our hair. I’m out of my comfort zone, but I’m hit by the jarring reality that this is their life. Some of the kids are barefoot, and others’ toes poke out of their shoes. Despite their torn shirts and worn-out shorts, the childrens’ sweet faces are curious and joyful.

My heart is broken.

A few days into my trip, I learn that some of the children at the City of Refuge Children’s Home are orphans, yes, but most were abandoned by parents who couldn’t or wouldn’t provide for them. Although the United States terminates rights when parents cease providing for their children, Jamaica does not. Even worse than the abandonment these children undergo, when they have the opportunity of a miraculous rescue, of adoption, parents often refuse to concede their rights.

I see Jamaican children who could have had durable clothing and exceptional education and nutritional food and safe homes and loving families, but they were denied the chance.

Life woke me up from my stupor of survival, yanked me out of the mire of unwanted obligation; it gave me color, taste, smell, feel.

Life is five year-old David blowing me a kiss from across the room, little Crystal wrapping her arms around Aleksa’s neck, Miguel parading around in Olivia’s sunglasses, Kemar climbing the steps in his first-ever pair of shoes.

Life is meant to be experienced with friends, family, strangers—feeling their pain and hardships. These kids taught me so much; they woke me up. They are filled with happiness even though their lives are

incomparably difficult.

Back home, I’m left missing them, wanting to fix their problems, desiring to fight injustice, needing to make them feel loved.

A deserving tribute to 6868 Squaw Lake Road

lia williams

//

feature editor

Turning down Squaw Lake Road was like reliving a dream from which never I wanted to wake.

Lofty tree branches formed a

welcoming arch as the wheels thudded along the faded-gray road more chipped and holed than a kindergarten pottery project. Bird feeders and wind chimes were the only accessories adorning the unevenly-spaced cottages. Sun-sprinkled diamonds formed the waves, their rhythmic stretching and receding mimicked the rocking of a baby’s cradle.

Our yard—a jungle of undiscovered creatures and unexplored territories—was the New World for my curious little hands and feet. Our street was a racecourse/taxicab service for my autistic neighbor and his bright orange gator; my short legs dangled off the seat edge as we’d whizz by my house.

I never knew how good I had it. The realtor’s sign threw my life into disarray.

Growing up in public school meant earth-shaking realities that would test my foundation. Out of the sanctuary of my incubated life, the vulgar slurs and cruel

“

wanted the world to lose its vibrant color.

No one clarifies the cruelty entailed by the phrase “grow up!” Few can describe the insur-

No one clarifies the cruelty entailed by the phrase ‘grow up!’ jokes cut like knives. Squaw Lake seemed a world away, its pristine memories buried in the lake.

Bombarded by students who were victims of divorce, drug abuse, and alcohol, I wanted to build an impenetrable igloo against these hardships. I never wanted to experience whatever force made adults drag their feet, shrug their shoulders, or rub their droopy eyes. I never

“

mountable obstacles marking the path for your life. Even fewer can explain how much these things will wear you down. So, as most seniors buzz with eagerness to ditch Traverse City and begin the next chapter in their lives, I cannot wholly relate; the fad of racing into adulthood befuddles me.

Preserving my untainted beliefs proved an impossible and

limiting feat. I can never be a purely good, or bad person, but what’s important is the decisions I make to return to the good side. Although I miss my childhood haven, I now realize it offered little self growth. Only by entering the big, scary world with my arms open, ready to confront these hardships, can I ever learn how to wisely redirect my fate.

Squaw Lake has given me this foundation. And I will always return.

I will cruise down the still windy, now patched up road. I will hear the tinklings of wind chimes and calls of chickadees.

And when I squint through the canopy of ripe green leaves to the unchanged, glittering water, I will remember.

five

May 20, 2014

submissions “Right after Owen died, all the childhood friends in that photo—all the friends I hadn’t seen in years—came back together. It was really cool seeing the community being supportive. When we got back together, the nostalgia was through the roof. It was really hard, seeing everyone else, you could tell he was the one missing. He was the one who really filled out the room with his sense of humor and all around great personality. He was something special.” -Michael Siciliano

Owen Williamson Nov. 26 , 1995 - May 31, 2013

Owen would have graduated this year from T. C. West High School.

The 2014 senior class from both schools salute Owen’s life, a young man who touched so many.

Photo: courtesy of Amy Hardin

(From left to right): Scott Hardin, Michael Siciliano, Tyger Bell, Danny Madion, Alex Korson, Adam Stepan, Caleb Heimburger, Alex Patten, Owen Williamson, Noah Mitchell-Ward, Joe LaGattuta

“Owen loved and valued the people in his life above everything else.”

-Tom Allerton, Owen’s stepfather

Photo: courtesy of Allen Kent Photography

courtney Truss-cadotte Title of piece: Blue Tropics What was your inspiration for this piece?

My inspiration for this piece was the effects of prolonged stress on the mind. As a senior with lots of AP classes, extracurriculars, and clubs, I can relate to dealing with copious amounts of stress in my life. By the time I finish my work, I usually find myself awake in the wee hours of the morning, completely exhausted from lack of sleep. I tried to capture this feeling in my piece, and oddly enough, I finished it at one AM. Go figure.

Can you describe the process of making it?

I began by sketching out a few thumbnails of my composition to

// guest artist

get an idea for how I was going to lay out my piece. After I was satisfied, I took a few pictures for reference of the figure’s pose, then, used the photos to get my composition onto the paper. From there on I used a pen to ink in my sketches, and then started the long process of shading and hatching.

How is your art/piece unique?

My piece is unique because I deviated from the traditional shading techniques of shading. I don’t see many works that use strictly hatching as a means of shading, and I think it gives mine a very stylized feel.

What materials went into it?

After I had laid out my sketch in light pencil, I only used ink in an

attempt to unify the style of the work.

six

May 20, 2014

Title of piece: Life of a student What was your inspiration for this piece?

My inspiration for this piece was the effects of prolonged stress on the mind. As a senior with lots of AP classes, extracurriculars, and clubs, I can relate to dealing with copious amounts of stress in my life. By the time I finish my work, I usually find myself awake in the wee hours of the morning, completely exhausted from lack of sleep. I tried to capture this feeling in my piece, and oddly enough, I finished it at one AM. Go figure.

Can you describe the process of making it?

Graham BeVier

// guest artist

allison taphouse

I began by sketching out a few thumbnails of my composition to get an idea for how I was going to lay out my piece. After I was satisfied, I took a few pictures for reference of the figure’s pose, then, used the photos to get my composition onto the paper.

From there on I used a pen to ink in my sketches, and then started the long process of shading and hatching.

How is your art/piece unique?

My piece is unique because I deviated from the traditional shading techniques of shading. I don’t see many works that use strictly hatching as a means of shading, and I think it gives mine a very stylized feel.

What materials went into it?

After I had laid out my sketch in light pencil, I only used ink in an attempt to unify the style of the work.

More than shoes, shirts and pants aaron smits

submissions A simple conversation

// staff reporter

Analyzing my closet, there are a plethora of tones and patterns, but blue seems to dominate. It’s not because it is my favorite color, but because I feel as if I can match it with everything. Nature is blue.

Blue will always match everything, whether it’s a desert beach, or a tropical rainforest. Water and sky always look good to me, so I cover myself in blue.

Dark blue jeans, light blue oxford button downs, and navy outerwear are some of my go-to blues.

I try not to lock myself into a particular brand or style. My wardrobe represents everything from fraternity brother, bear-killing man, to gothic ninja.

Defining an individual style caps off any potential for growth. I try to never to close my closet doors to another style that intrigues. Avoiding limits helps me constantly grow into different clothes. One day I might be preppy as hell, another day I’ll be blacked out.

Fixations on miniscule, peculiar things seem to hold me back the most. I’ll become obsessed with a pair of shoes or a jacket and I’ll want to wear that with every outfit. Recently this happened with my all white Chuck Taylors, but I think I’m almost over it.

Maybe not.

Being preoccupied with a pair of shoes means I only have a certain number of outfits I can build.

That number could be enormous, but it still exists.

Other times I’ll get frustrated with every single

thing I own.

Purging everything and starting over is a thought that comes to me often while I’m standing in front of my closet in the morning.

But the best sartorial happening is putting on a combination of garments that were never meant to go together and having them look delicious. These holy epiphany moments are why I continue to be infatuated with fashion.

All things considered, clothing manifests ideas into designs and visual interpretations. Like painting or architecture, understanding how colors and textures cooperate and diverge is truly a form of art. I have all of these idea in my head and I get so manic and excited about an event or an opinion or an aesthetic that it will destroy me if it is not liberated.

Fashion allows me to project all of these feelings I otherwise could never put into words. I have never been talented at painting or sketching or poetry, but I find clothing allows me to channel inspiration.

// focus page editor

As I entered the rotting trailer of the family I was about to spend a week with in the Appalachian area of North Carolina, my jaw dropped.

This was my fifth mission trip and I thought I was past the shock part. But this “home” shouldn’t have existed here, in our country. How was this family living in conditions so severe that it would make a wild animal uncomfortable?

The family was comprised of father, mother and their three teenage sons, Kaleb, Kurtis, and Kameron. Ever since their house had been partially destroyed by fire, they had been living in a one-bedroom trailer with no shower or toilet. It felt claustrophobic just to stand there, in a living room that was barely livable.

It was all I could do to keep my face in a mask of civility. When my mask was off, I could barely breathe in the thick air that reeked of tobacco and another smell I can only describe as poor. I had to keep my face from contorting from the odor.

But the condition of the trailer was something far easier to deal with than the condition of the family. The oldest, already 19, was struggling to earn enough credits to complete high school.

The middle boy, 17, had yet to learn his ABC’s. This was something I never expected to see in an American teenager.

How did he still not know the alphabet? We weren’t in a third-world country.

But the youngest, 16, he really got to me.

What do you say to a kid who feels his life is hopeless before it even starts? He had ambition and dreams, but confided in me that there was no hope for him. As he spit a fat wad of tobacco, he mumbled, “the teachers don’t

like my brothers so they ain’t like me neither. I can’t get no help, so I ain’t goin’ nowhere but my couch with a big bag of potato chips.”

I realized how alike we were in those few minutes--we both wanted to do something with our lives. But we were worlds apart, in that I knew my hopes were possible..

Even though everyone should have a fair chance to obtain an education and to achieve a piece of the future, socioeconomic realities are an undeniable barrier.

Education can truly help people ascend from poverty, but most impoverished citizens don’t see it as an option. Many can’t put in the extended effort. Education gives you a chance.

From the very moment we packed up the van and headed home, North Carolina was calling me back. I fell in love with both the land and the people. Next year I’m answering this call by making NC my new home. I’m attending North Carolina State University to pursue a career where I can work with people in need.

Kameron taught me that sometimes the work that is most important is something that we don’t even see as anything--a simple conversation.

seven

May 20, 2014

submissions Ten years from now you will knock on my door

meg caldwell // photo editor One day you will walk up to my door, and knock on it. The air will smell like conceived rainstorms, and you will be driving the Discovery Tracker you’ve always wanted. When you pull into my

driveway the gravel road will cackle under your wheels and somewhere in the spine of your mind, you will remember the way I used to laugh.

You will walk up to my door, and notice the peeling teal paint, wonder if I’m alive.

You know I am though, you heard my voice on NPR last week reading poetry.

You saw my photographs, but when you knock on my door, you will still wonder if I am alive.

I’ll be inside, looking out the windows you used to sketch for me. The water will be a color that makes me want to sing. I’ll be listening to the same song over and over again, something I hadn’t done since high school. I’ll be finding solace in the same rhythm over and over again, solace in the same lyrics over and over again. I’ll be inside drying dishes.

“Hello,” you will knock on my door.

You would stare at the grass I haven’t mowed, it doesn’t look like the manicured yards we were used to driving by on the Peninsula. It looks like the small cracks in the sidewalk where only the stron-

gest weeds survive, something about it untamed, free. You’ll remember the days I would only whisper “be like the grass.”

You will knock on my door again, teal paint chips will fall to my porch. You will stare in through the windows and see my studio. The tall hot pink bookcases, and you will see desk where I’ve written my last two of my novels, both of which made the New York Times Best Seller’s List.

You will knock on my door again. Urgent this time, like there was a fire outside and the only safe place was my home behind the windows.

“Yes, yes, yes!” I’ll shout. “I’m coming!”

I’ll walk down the hall with a vase in my hand and a drying rag in the other. My black lab pup bounding at my heels, a soft bark rising from his throat.

You won’t knock again, and you won’t respond either. You’ll ignore the sidelight windows asking you to peer inside my life again, you’ll wonder what else I have hiding in pink bookshelves, but you will step away from the door.

“Wayne!” I’ll look down at my pup.

“Wayne, shh. Quit barking!”

You will look at your truck and wonder if you should get in it and drive as far away as you can. But you cannot move.

You’ll just watch me open the door.

You’ll say something like, “hey, I don’t know if you remember me--” “--Oh damn, catch that dog. Wayne! Get back here this instant!” I’ll set the vase and rag on the porch rail, and run off after him. You’ll bend down and scoop my squirming pup in your hands. I’ll pick the vase back up off the railing.

“Thank you! Thank you! That damn dog could run forever!”

“I’m sorry. I don’t know if you remember me,” you’ll say again. You’ll follow me back up the steps onto my porch, Wayne licking your face, fidgeting in your hands.

You will ask yourself again why you are here and what you thought this would do.

“Of course, I remember you.” And that’s when you’ll realize I’m drying the vase you gave me ten years ago.

Open letter to aspiring artists alex korson

// graphics editor

Dear budding art student, It is my highest hope that art is your passion, for it is one of the most rewarding and expressive pursuits one can take in life, and so long as money and fame—which are so rarely granted to the artist—are not of interest, read on.

Step 1.) DRAW EVERY DAY. Guess what, this means EVERY DAY (Note that ‘every day’ is capitalized, bolded and underlined because it is very important). Some days I draw for more than eight hours, not because I have to, but because I enjoy it so much. If I miss a day with my sketchbook, I often worry I won’t improve, or might slip into art block. But that anxiety is beautiful. Art can absorb you and wrap you in its limitless energy. You are never too busy to find time and scribble on your napkin while eating, or pull out your sketchbook during a bus ride.

Step 2.) BUILD YOUR VISUAL LIBRARY. Ever wonder why that car you drew looks boring? Or that dragon you painted looks like it’s from Disney? That’s because you need a bigger visual library! Your visual library is the visual information that was pleasing enough to your brain that it bothered to encode and store it.

How do I generate a bigger visual library? Look at cool things! Travel, watch movies, play video games, read books, look at photos, go to muse-

ums, study nature.

Step 3.) STUDY AND RESEARCH. I am mostly a self-taught artist. While Mrs. Harper has taught me a lot—she is one of the most excellent teachers I’ve known—a lot of my art knowledge was acquired from other sources, such as the internet and books. Start by learning your fundamentals, they’re all the good stuff that lets you draw anything. When you reach that stage years from now, when you can draw whatever comes to mind, and do it well, it makes your heart sing.

STEP 4.) FIND INSPIRATION. The best and worst part about being an artist, is that there will always be someone better than you.

That in mind, it is my great honor to present to you your new life time rival: YOURSELF - WOO CONFETTI AND STREAMERS EVERYWHERE! Today, if you have been drawing, you are now better than you were yesterday. Tomorrow, if you draw, you will be better than you are today. Make sure to find and follow your favorite artists! Seeing their amazing art will make your jaw drop and your chest heat up; it’s sort of like love, but less expensive.

So, if I have done what I hoped, you now know you can be successful in the art world.

Life often refuses to be fair, but I guarantee you this: if you follow my advice, you will improve ten times or more in one year, no matter how excellent you are right at this moment. I hope to see you in the art world someday.

Title of Piece: Unknown: Impure What was your inspiration for this piece?

“I wanted a very still scene, something serene. The overall feel was aimed to be mysterious, with the run down buildings and misty mountain to add to the atmosphere.”

Can you describe the process of making it?

“With the general idea in mind, I made four value thumbnails. I picked the one I felt captured the mood, increased the file size, added color, then rendered from back to front, beginning with the mountains. I finished by working in textures and detail.”

How is your art/piece unique?

“There’s plenty of sci-fi art out there, but I really wanted to mix an Alaskan lake with a future vehicle. I think the tone and atmosphere are what set this piece apart from others.”

What materials went into it?

“It was straight Photoshop. I started with basic hard round and soft round brushes for the thumbnails, but mostly used a square chalk brush.”

eight

May 20, 2014

future plans

As high school ends, students are starting their new adventures in life. Students applied to different colleges and universities throughout the country. Your peers chose these paths for themselves Aquinas College Karley Curtis Molly Peregrine Haley Pierce

Davenport University

Grinnell College

DePauw University

Grand Canyon University

Melissa Phillips

Kristopher Konstanzer

Logan Dell’Acqua Aleksa Szunko Marin Tack

Baker College

Duke University

Brigham Young University

Eastern Michigan University

Alpena Community College

Jordan Riggs

Piper Deans Michael Kellett

California Polytechnic State University Jonathon Shank

Calvin College

Paxton Anderson

Central Michigan University Joshua Belcher Raymond Burley Kelly Forrester Haley Moll Sean Monnier Molly Schroderus

Clemson University Katherine Moses

Columbia College Chicago Margaret Caldwell

College of Charleston Victoria Gortsema

College for Creative Studies Ivy Baillie Alexander Korson

College of Wooster Matthias Copeland

Cornerstone University Joy Reist

Dartmouth University Kyle Dotterrer

Julia Berry

Sara Korb Amanda Rabb

Elon University

Caleb Heimburger

Clara Trippe

Michaela Echols

Hope College Zachary Egbert Olivia Fleet Rudy Kelly Emily Ledford Lindsey Porter Clare Sorace

Indiana University Nicholas Yergens

Meredith Manor International Equestrian Center Channing Bornschein Mikeala Ludka

Michigan State University Madeline Aulicino Callie Bartkowiak Makenna Beers Katie Cooney Myia Hall Jeffrey Knoblock Kiley Kowal Marie Laird Noble Lewallen III Charlie Long Clare Moen Mckenzie Miller Estefany Paniagua David Reinke Elena Rothney Nicole Vockel Brianna Worthington Jacqueline Zarzycki

Emerson College

Junior Hockey in British Columbia

Ferris State University

Junior Hockey in Cleveland

Foreign Exchange

Kalamazoo Valley Community College

Michigan Technical Institute

Gap Year

Kalamazoo College

Michigan Technological University

Danielle Landowski Joy Fowler Abigail Yanska Tristan Burke

Tyger Bell Autumn Radosevich

Golden West College Devon Borrowdale

Grand Valley State University Christopher Bennett Adam Canute Taylor Cobb Autumn Decker Devon Dotterrer Jacqueline Ewing Hailey Hushak Paige MacKinnon Carley McKenzie Alyssa Pataky Madison Paulic Bianca Richards Aaron Smits Abigail Underwood Joseph Videki

Marcus Russell

Cameron Givens

Lauren Gray

Skyler Norgaard Lia Williams Mitchell Wynkoop

Lake Superior State University Connor Hansen Ian Hathaway

Lawrence Technological University Stephen Perrin

Lawrence University Charlotte Noble

Manatee Technical Institute Maranda Hall

Mercyhurst University Marleigh Bristol

Allen Prause

Jennie Baker Yani Beeker Gary Lord Anthony Miller Angela Seraphinoff Dylan Wyatt

Military

Christopher Anderson Bradley Beauchamp Tanner Bianchi Alma Bultsma Justin Fernadez Edward Maxbauer Chad Pipkins Lindsey Round

Northwestern Michigan College Marshall Anthony Olivia Aprea Nathan Baers

nine

May 20, 2014

future plans Northwestern Michigan College (continued) Mary Barbera Dianthia Barnum Taylor Becker Kijlee Beehler Zachary Blake Cynthia Bowen Jennifer Borysiak Victoria Buchcanan Jayna Cisneros Amelia Coggins Jeff Comerford Dillon Coyne Andrew Decker Rocco Dituri Emily Dohm Hunter Dolwick Jack Dulude David Dunolp Brooke Ebenhoeh Rochelle Engle Vincent Ellul Danielle Evina Hannah Fasel Jourdan Fehrenbach Taylor Flores Adam Foster Summer Friess Delaney Gartland Brendyn Gaylord Matthew Gignilliat Allison Griswold Allyson Hentschel Nicole Janiga Chole Jeffs Chase Kleehammer Johnathon Kotarski Gary Kuepfer-Pownall Andrew Machelski Allen Mackie Brooke Mackinnon Alexandria Mallery Jade Mason Tiernan McGrew Noah Mckenzie Alyssa Middaugh Delaney Miller Hailee Miller Kendall Minor MacKenzie Monroe Fiona Muha Alec Nall Kaylee Niemi-Desmarais Nichole O’Brien Germania Parks

Gabriella Pasco Lexie Penney Sara Peterson Megan Powers London Rauch Eric Remy Benjamin Rogers Shannon Schroeder Monique Smith Brandon Sogge Rebecca Stagman Megan Thomas Francesca Valentage Brady Versluis Mitchell Villagomez Andrew Walsh Madalyn Weatherholt Bradley Wozniak Ashleigh Wrona Vam Yang Kimberly Zeeryp

Northern Michigan University Alaina Chela Lucas Empson Jessica Kushner Isabella Mack Ryan Schiller

Northwood University John Piatek Austin Plamondon

Northwestern University Josiah Lopez-Wild Elijah Smith Hannah Stenke

North Carolina State University Germania Pasco Allison Taphouse

Ohio State University Benjamin Saunders

Portland State University Reyann Jensen

Rice University Kayla Manninon

Ringling College of Art and Design Brianne Munch

Saginaw Valley State University

University of Utah

Cole Boyd

Ryan Haworth Brenn Olson Nathan Reicha Molly Whitting

Undecided

University of Vermont

Carl Gardner

Syracuse University

Marjori Boldt Alexandra Burris Tabitha Burris Maverick Cook Murphy Drury Anders Olson Howard Rose IV Courtney Truss-Cadotte Cameron Young

Hannah Davis

University of West Florida Lauren Marsh

University of Wisconsin Katherine Zimmerman

Western Michigan University

Jillian Holstad

Helen Cullen Caroline Gardner Kayla Harley Elena Morcote Gabrielle Morey Jacob Muessig Chole Ostema Austin Podsaid David Stone Kaila Szafranski

University of Detroit Mercy

Western Washington University

Brett Spanski

Jacob Gerstner

University of Michigan

West Point

United States Naval Academy Zoe Sobeck

University of California, Santa Barbara Christopher Chang

University of Chicago

Ellis Begley Graham BeVier Lauren Bruno Fisher Diede Christina Druskovich Kurt Frick Colton Gerber Chris Hall Scott Hardin Kayla Hilner Peter Jacobson Olivia Luciani Daniel Madion Noah Mitchell-Ward Marco Morcote Jacob Myers Hayley Padden Abigail Palisin Nathan Schlusler Michael Siciliano

University of Rochester Ivan Suminski

Adam Stepan

Work

Autumn Blanchard Spencer Brosch Justin Christopher Harold Feigel Cam Fisher Mace Gates Hunter Hansma Alexander Kelp Trisca Menatac Roark Freeman Phillips Savanna Piatt Olivia Porter Trenton Prescott Alex Sholten Daniel Steele Michael Triplett Daniel Witucki Emiley Wright

ten

May 20, 2014

Eye of the tiger Family first; time to play jeff comerford // staff reporter

I have Cerebral Palsy, a disability that affects my motor control. For me, this means that the right and left sides of my body function differently. My left side is strong, but my right side is pretty stubborn. My right hand struggles to turn, and sometimes I think it has a mind of it’s own. When I walk, it’s with a limp. It just takes me a little longer to get there.

Usually, people like me don’t like to tangle with gravity on slippery surfaces way up in the mountains.

For me, skiing is an adrenaline rush. It’s me, the mountain, the snow, and it’s all downhill. When I ski, I get where I want to go, fast. I’m not going to win a bronze at the Olympics, but I don’t care.

When I want speed, all I have to do is play Eye of the Tiger and You’re the Best Around through my head. Skiing provides me with a challenge I can never deny. It motivates me to work harder and to go faster.

Skiing in Colorado is my favorite. I’ve skied locally too but for me, there’s no comparison. Mountains always win. I think it’s because of the whole bigger and better thing, which is why skiing in the

mountains is even a bigger thrill. I know the distance is going to be more of a challenge.

That’s the way I like it.

Every year, I fly out to Aspen, Colorado to face the mountains.

This anticipation washes over me. It’s that time again is the thought that keeps zooming through my head. When I’m out there, geared up and absolutely ready to go, it’s the mountain on my mind.

I’m not afraid. The faster I go increases the chance I’ll crash and burn. I’ve wiped out on the mountain several times. The speed is worth it. Thankfully, none have been too serious.

Falling doesn’t freak me out nearly as much as it used to. One of the most important things is knowing where you’re going. I’ve skied so long, I feel like I’ve heard all the warnings.

Look where you’re going is the BIG one. I look. I move.

Is there danger? Yep. I do everything I can to avoid pesky little things like trees, and annoying obstacles like other people, and things that can hurt, like cliffs and rocks.

When I ski in the mountains, it’s with an adaptive program. Among other recreational activities, they have instructors certified to teach people with disabilities to ski. On flat terrain, I move slowly. Getting my right side to engage is hard.

It takes a little while to get a good momentum going.

But up in the mountains, speed is mine. I’m in the air, flying. I lock in on those pure white slopes and I’m off. Eye of the Tiger.

zach egbert

// business manager

The sun is low on the horizon, just peeking up and the water is that early morning mirrored glass before the wind shows up. And then a hit on dad’s line. . . the reel on his fishing pole making that zzzzz sound. “Get the net”! he yells, as a Largemouth Bass surfaced above the lily pads.

It was Halloween morning and my mom was out of town. My dad woke me up early and asked if I wanted to skip school to fish. I was out of the house within minutes and dragging him down to the lake.

That large mouth bass hangs in our basement today and I’m proud to say I netted it for my dad on a day we were supposed to be responsible. My parents taught me that, but they also taught me how to play.

Growing up on Spider Lake was one part of Traverse City that I will never forget. From learning to swim and fish, to driving the boat, I learned both responsibility and the joys of play. My father spent hours in the sandy shallows between the dock and the raft trying to teach me how to stay above water.

The hundreds of basketball, football, baseball games attended were just what we did. But the times spent on the lake or in our back yard, that’s who we were. My

submissions

two sisters, Megan and Anna, five and ten years older than me, truly raised me in a girl’s world. I don’t want to even mention the number of times I was put into a dress or had my nails painted. And I could probably tell you in detail many episodes of Gilmore Girls and Seventh Heaven. But, hopefully, in the end, they taught me how to treat a girl, not just how to be one.

Once the girls were out of the house, my mother was forced into many steak and potato dinners and late night sporting events. Yet as our family geographically spreads further apart, she remains the rock that keeps us together.

Every family dinner, vacation, or activity we did together, was special. My peers and I may not notice it now, but when we’re out on our own, there’s no way we will forget it. And we’ll always remember the importance of play.

A midsummer night’s ride into the forest connor hansen

I ran through the darkness, barely dodging the oncoming branches, desperately searching for the road I had crossed earlier.

His screams were muffled now, drowned out by the boys’ laughter. Maybe they would let him go. Maybe they would feel sorry for him. I ran. “COOONNNNOORRRRRRRRR!!!!!” I kept running. * * * Knock knock knock. My mom opened the front door and the late afternoon sun beamed through,

// staff reporter

blinding me. I passed behind her, glimpsing the silhouette of my newly acquainted neighbor, Scotty Hardin. He was joined by three others: the redhead, Josh, who lived on the East Side, Tyger, who lived in the depths of the cul de sac and finally Alex, who resided in the Hills of Holiday. I quickly put on shoes, said goodbye to my mom, and walked outside into what would soon send me bolting through the woods.

I followed the group along the stone path in my front lawn. The walk was silent. The air was still.

When our feet met the driveway, Tyger procured what appeared to be two halves of an empty coconut from his pockets, maintaining absolute silence all the while. In the softest of voices, Tyger asked me to mount my horse.

“What?” I responded.

“I said, get on your horse” he repeated in a harsher tone.

Tyger seemed frustrated with my inability to mount an imaginary

horse. I sighed, and saddled up.

The tension abated and the silence resumed. Tyger galloped toward the woods, knocking the coconut shells together to simulate the sound of horse hooves. The others galloped after him, leaving me in my driveway, speechless. I sauntered after them, bewildered and curious.

Finally, we arrived in the heart of the Forest. I arrived in a clearing, and saw the others standing rather ceremoniously at the center, Josh in the middle. Tyger’s soft voice issued another command. “Let’s rub leaves in his hair.” Before I could formulate a defense, Scott and Alex pinned Josh to the ground. Tyger grabbed a handful of sopping wet leaves and faced his victim. As Tyger unleashed his inner tiger on the poor redhead’s face, I turned and ran. Emerging from the forest, my shoes hit the road and I jogged the rest of the way back to my house, just in time for dinner.

“So did you guys have fun?” my mom asked.

eleven

May 20, 2014

submissions

My aunt, my sister brianna worthington

My aunt Denise is also my sister.

No, you didn’t read that wrong. I’ve surprised people with that statement for as long as I can remember. Denise is my mom’s biological sister, she was adopted at 17 by my newlywed parents. Over time, at first through whispered conversations behind closed doors, I learned that Denise was living in an abusive household. My parents adopted her to protect her and to give her a life worth living. When I go out with Denise, people mistake her for my mom. Our age gap is noticeable, obviously, but she has always been an older sister to me.

We share many things together, but unlike most siblings, we do not share secrets. Denise is very against the practice of telling secrets because that is the environment in which her abuse was cultivated. The skeleton in our family’s closet was accepted, but not discussed. And I never wondered why we didn’t speak to Denise’s biological parents or why she was my aunt and my sister. It was normal.

Denise began living with my family when I was just 8 weeks old until I was in elementary school. When I was five, I had a weekly tradition of running downstairs to her room and jumping on her bed to wake her up for church. The Sunday after Denise moved out, I ran downstairs but began crying as soon as I saw her bed was empty and

// staff reporter remembered that my big sister wasn’t there. Spending these mornings cuddled with Denise in her big yellow comforter, I would never have guessed that her childhood was nothing like mine.

My parents only discovered the severity of Denise’s abuse when she was 17. It was far worse than when my mom lived under that roof. Abusive households tend to become exponentially worse over time.

My mom was the oldest child and Denise was the youngest. One horrible day when my mom was in her late 20s, she received a phone call from Denise disclosing the terrifying reality she was living. My mom had always felt that her parents were over-controlling, but she never imagined the extent of physical abuse her little sister had endured. My parents then began the journey of adopting and caring for a young, terrified teen. They helped her escape and start a new life. Eventually, Denise obtained her G.E.D and earned a nursing degree.

She was no longer a victim, She was a survivor.

I didn’t see much of the first-hand effects these horrors had on my sister, but learning about Denise’s past triggered my fascination with survivors.

Throughout high school, whenever I could choose a research topic for a paper, I wrote about Battered Woman Syndrome or the psychological effects of abuse. My obsession became the topic of trauma and the process of recovery. I still do not understand the scope of how Denise’s childhood has affected her, which is why I want the ability to have insight into the survivor’s world and to have enough knowledge and training to help them.

Next year, I will begin the path of psychology with a specialization in trauma victims so that one day I can support survivors like my sister Denise.

Title of Piece: Harbor girl (top) and Sorbet (right) What was your inspiration for this piece?

“Growing up around Bowers Harbor and now being able to watch my sister grow up the same way inspired me. With the age gap between me and my sister, I can take more notice on her life since I’m much older than her. It makes it easy for me to reminisce from when I was that age.”

Can you describe the process of making it?

“I saw something appealing and snapped my shutter. I spent a lot of time editing both the photos in Photoshop to make sure that they matched both in their natural tones and visual texture (top). I put both of the photos in

the frame to connect them further.”

How is your art/piece unique?

“It was taken through my perspective, nobody sees anything the same way. Both of the photos are unique to me because of my closeness to the subjects. It captures a moment in time that triggers a lot of memories for me.”

What materials went into it?

“I used my Canon T3i to capture the initial image, and finished it off in editing in the latest version of Photoshop.”

Writing with light anders olson

// staff photographer

Photography for me is a way to stop time and capture a moment or a feeling the way I see it. It helps me understand the world and the way humanity thinks. The experience of capturing time gives me the ability to elicit emotions that wouldn’t have been felt otherwise. I can capture a sad, dark moment and bring out something beautiful and bright.

Or create humor out of something disturbing or uncomfortable. Photography opens the doors of thought and creation in my head more than any other art form.

With the advancement of digital photography and the resource of PhotoShop, anything can be done to a photo. The wizardry of digital editing is ever expanding and will always amaze me.

But my first love will always be the 35mm film camera. Using film is what made me fall in love

“

with photography and it is what keeps me excited.

The pure aesthetic of capturing an image without being able to look at it immediately and make any necessary adjustments is, to me, the real art form of photography.

All I need is the sun, the F-stop, and my shutter and I am free to write on my film with light. That’s really what photography is— the prefix of photo translates to “light”, as the prefix of graph translates to “to write” — light writing is the bare bones of the art form, almost primitive in a way. It’s all in the imagination of the eye. I see something to shoot and know what I want it to look like. I often tweak the settings to get the result and sometimes it ruins the photo, but other times it turns out to be a beautiful mistake. Some of my favorite photographs were taken completely free styled, no expectation, just “let’s try this.”

As long as there is light, I will be seeing it through my lense, and writing it down with a click of my shutter.

All I need is the sun, the F-stop, and my shutter and I am free to write on my film with light.

”

twelve

May 20, 2014

When Meijer came rumbling in scott hardin

The greatest lesson of my childhood was learning to spit in Goliath’s face. Growing up, Meijer was never much more than the big store with the cheap cookie bins, so it was hard to see the evil in it. It’s hard to see the evil in anything as an eleven year old.

Meijer and the Village at Grand Traverse sued some members of the Acme township board, my dad included, for unlimited assets, to punish and intimidate them for previously belonging to a group that opposed the size of the pending Acme Meijer and Village. This was how the true face of a formerly faceless corporation became clear.

When I was in elementary

// leek & photo editor

school, my mom had to sit me down and explain why someone we did not know was suing our family for everything we owned. When I was in elementary school, I had to try to understand why a store we had shopped at for years would illegally fund a fake recall election to try to simply remove local politicians they did not like. When I was in elementary school, I did not know how to be mad enough.

Now I cope with this infuriating situation in which everything is said and done with, yet I still have much to say and do. There is only one piece left unfinished.

Timothy Stoepker, Meijer’s lawyer, is currently in front of a grievance committee for ethics violations. This is the man who, along with Meijer, went after my entire future when I was eleven, even though he might not have even known that I existed. In his defense, he said that he found out that Meijer had been committing egregious campaign finance fraud from a newspaper on Christmas, and that it absolutely ruined Christmas for his

Title of Piece: Billy What was your inspiration for this piece?

The portrait needed to represent Billy in personality as well as form. Billy is actually a really silly guy, so the photo has these dramatic undertones in an almost ironic manner, but the seriousness is still representative of the way the Billy carries himself

family.

While Stoepker may face some form of justice, I’m still left with an aggravating gap between when Meijer went after my family and when I became old enough to speak out about it.

An attack on such a grand scale, so early in my life and of such moral reprehensibility, keeps me evaluating all the benefits and consequences of a believe that someone is, in one way or another, always coming after me. I find myself looking over my shoulder to put a decent distance between me and a time where I have no power of words to wield.

But what was most important was how my parents reacted when Goliath came for blood.

This massive corporation rumbled in with a high profile lawyer to sue us because my dad wouldn’t bend his will for them, and my parents decided to sue right back.

They taught me early on that nothing gratifying ever came from playing the part of pawn, and that is a damn important thing to know.

and his demeanor when he isn’t joking around.

Can you describe the process of making it?

The sky was extremely overcast, so I was shooting in black and white film to avoid flat colors and compose just with the values and form. I didn’t set anything up, so that was easy. This is in the open space so the background was very plain and I wanted the focus to be on Billy, so I shot it at f/2 to get a shallow depth of field.

How is your art/piece unique?

I wanted to catch the cigarette. I think it’s interesting that it still has glamour to it and invokes this sense of cool, even though people are so vehemently against tobacco use. The photo becomes a social experiment in the appreciation of vices.

What materials went into it?

I used a Pentax K1000, a fifty millimeter lens, and Ilford 400 XP2 film.

submissions

Title of Piece: April 19th What was your inspiration for this piece?

I have been trying to capture running water in a long exposure shot, and searching all around for the perfect place.

Can you describe the process of making it?

I set my camera to the longest exposure it could go to capture as much movement as possible.

How is your art/piece unique?

All the water was frozen in winter so when spring rolled around I was glad I could finally get this long exposure shot I have been chasing.

What materials went into it?

I used a tripod and filters to avoid a blurry or overexposed shot.

Where you’ll find me now what beauty truly looks like.”

The disconnect between my expectation and the reality before me made me realize that everyone has their sacred places, but this rock was not my sanctuary.

It is somewhere past the green lawns where the asphalt crumbles away. Here, in my sanctuary, the hum of the highway is just a faint murmur, and is drowned out by the sound of the autumn wind rushing through the trees.

And it’s somewhere past the beaten trail, where the crisp leaves crunch, the fragile branches snap and the soft earth give jake myers leek editor way to the sole of my boots.

And it’s somewhere at the peak Ninety-five thousand feet above of the hill, where there is a break the bottom of the Grand Canin the trees, and I am at the top yon, a gray wire fence ran along of the world. the edge of Mather’s Point. The At the top of the world, I can fence was so inconspicuous, see the peninsula jut out into the so modest there was as much gentle waters of the bay. The chance of it being an ancient golden shoreline blends in with relic, as there was of its being the rolling vineyards and forests thrown up the day before. that are so vibrant it looks as if Leaning against that fence, the entire peninsula is ablaze. gazing into the canyon I kept The wind races through the trees waiting for something to hapand shakes the leaves. They twist pen. Around me, other visitors and turn from their perch as if were overcome by the grandeur; they are desperately trying to some wept, and almost everyone prolong their inevitable descent. had a camera. In the midst of In the stoicism of the place all this rapture, my indifference where the trees break, I find bothered me. This heirloom of what I am looking for.

America has been pounded into my brain over and over: “This is

//

thirteen

May 20, 2014

submissions meg caldwell

// photo editor

Title of piece: Light What was your inspiration for this piece?

I like to document things and show people how things feel. I took this is the Alhambra and it just felt really magical because I was in this hidden cover plus the stream of light fell through and it made everyone this yellow glow I’ve never seen before.

Can you describe the process of making it?

It was spontaneous and I was with a friend. I just looked up and clicked the shutter. It looked orangish, sort of like a blood orange. I just snapped a photo of it. I like to take pictures of things I don’t fully understand.

How is your art/ piece unique?

It’s not. I just got lucky I saw something and I got to click it.

Art isn’t about “being unique,” it’s about observing things and recognizing the moment to document something.

What materials went into it?

A camera.

Trails of thought in tropical places clara trippe

// guest writer

It is amazing what the mind recalls. For my senior spring break, I traveled to St. John’s in the Virgin Islands, the place I had gone when I was a freshman. It’s an island less cultivated than most tropical destinations, and here our time was spent on rough forest trails and secluded beaches. Three years ago I had walked the trail around an old plantation, yet the path was still in my memory. The ruins themselves seemed unchanged, but the forest had grown around them and I swear some of the paths I had taken were erased entirely. It wasn’t a large leap of logic, as geckoes scurried under my feet I had the impression that the land was always shifting. The forest seemed to control the paths of people, and the old plantation had been consumed by the destructive, steady movement of the island until the walls had crumbled. Climbing over the piles of rocks that were once slave quarters, the island’s ability to erase the memory of humanity’s worst tendencies was apparent.

Standing there, I was content. Throughout high school, the need for control: of my grades, test scores, and life had been building until the pressure was almost unbearable. It left me handicapped; the

anxiety of losing control kept me from taking risks, and instead I choose to stay home and study instead of experiencing things outside of textbooks and GPAs. Walking that forest path, I realized my efforts were pointless, when in a few short years nature’s hands would reclaim something human feet had been making for generations. My small moments spent out of control were nothing.

Standing there, I was content to give in because it was clear that the ways things should be had been figured out long before I had come along.

Master in the art of flirtation sean monnier

// staff reporter

Attaining the title of “flirt” has taken me many grueling and painful years, not to mention countless rejections.

When I first dared to flirt, I was terrible, not just because I wasn’t practiced, but also because I was still in elementary school. Flirting, as I have since learned, can be misconstrued as creepy, and even I had my moments. Girls would laugh at me, or run off terrified by my sputtering yet valiant attempts to tell them they were pretty.

After years of rejection--and a few successes--I learned that rejection was simply a hint to change my approach. I tried various tactics on the increasingly attractive women that surrounded me, carefully noting what worked and what didn’t.

Another thing I tried was altering my appearance. Thinking that women prefer a smooth chest, I shaved mine.

Unfortunately, it was winter, so no one saw my handy manscaping.

How about a beard? Right? The ladies like that. So I grew facial hair. This too failed because I could only grow hair in certain spots on my face, which gave me the look of a prepubescent pirate.

I was even pathetic enough to practice my seductive faces in front of the mirror. What woman doesn’t light up to Channing Tatum’s cheeky smirk? Obviously there is something about the face and the artfully delivered line. While mirror practice wasn’t a total failure, it caused some girls to take me even less seriously.

I fell into the lowest pit of degradation as my junior year Homecoming approached. My friends began asking girls in exponentially suave ways. During 4th hour trig, it dawned on me that I was the only one of my friends who didn’t have a date. Still in math class, I turned quickly to a very close friend of mine—who happened to be a very attractive girl—and in the most seductive tone I could muster, formally asked her to accompany me to the dance.

A little too hastily, she informed me that she already had a date.

Being an opportunist, I turned to her friend and asked her. Yet another rejection. Suddenly I had an epiphany.

I needed to boost my odds: the more girls I asked, the higher my chances were of one finally saying yes. Sadly, even after I left math and had been de-

clined by like, 76 girls, I was not able to find a date to homecoming. So I went anyway and continued to ask girls to be my date while at the dance.

Even though I was having a lot of fun, clearly, my strategies weren’t working. So I consulted my elders.

Out at dinner I discussed my failed attempts with my dad and grandfather, who both came to the conclusion that I was trying too hard. “You just need to be more genuine,” they both said, “be yourself.”

My grandfather decided I needed a live demonstration. While ordering his food from our waitress, he stopped, and with dramatic flair, put his menu down, looked into her eyes, and told her, “do you know how beautiful your eyes are?” and then looked at me and said, “That’s how it is done, kiddo.”

Mortifying as gramps was, he had a point.

When I got home, I wanted to expand my flirt vocabulary, so I found a thesaurus, and looked up more elegant and classy words. With my new arsenal of flirtatious words, I decided to try it out on the girls at school. As I strolled the hallways, I complimented their wardrobe, hair, eyes, the way they carried their backpacks, basically anything I could think that just might work.

At one point I asked an already engaged teacher out to dinner at Olive Garden. She of course said no, but I could tell she was torn.

I had a girlfriend for a while, so I’m making progress and my years of practice are paying off. Although flirting comes easy now, I’m still self-schooling in the ways of seduction. One day I will master the act of flirting.

I am open to instruction from any of the ladies out there.

fourteen

May 20, 2014

awards & commendations

Congratulations to all of the seniors for their hard work, dedication, and determination to keep Central’s achedemic and athletic traditions alive. Note that all data was collected via B&G staff Alumni Hall of Fame: Len Hawley, Class of 1965 Jerry Stanek, Class of 1966 Dave Whiteford, Class of 1972 Lars Hockstad, Class of 1907 “Legends” Award Recipient

National Merit Recipients: National Merit Finalists: Jamison J. Chung, Christopher J. Hall, Noah I. Mitchell-Ward, Ivan P. Suminski Jacqueline Zarzycki: National Merit Commended Student Callie M. Bartkowiak: National Merit Corporate Scholarship Students of the Month: Kiwanis: Graham BeVier, Yani Beeker, Lauren Bruno, Jalyna Cisneros, Chris Hall, Jill Holstad, Forrest Lewallen, Josiah LopezWild, Paige MacKinnon, Danny Madion, Noah Mitchell-Ward, Ashley Smith, Molly Whiting, Lia Williams Rotary: Kyle Dotterrer, Olivia Luciani, Molly Peregrine, Nate Reicha, Zoe Sobeck, Ivan Sumanski Trojans: Logan Dell’Aqua, Kyle Dotterrer, Zach Egbert, Kelly Forrester, Alyk Fuller, Lauren Gray, Chris Minier, Freeman Phillips, Nate Reicha, Andrew Walsh Band, Orchestra, & Jazz: Michigan Youth Arts Orchestra Participants: Ivan Suminski TCC Symphony Orchestra Music Booster: Ellis Begley, Ivan Suminski National School Orchestra Award: Alex Lord, Ashley Smith Orchestra Director’s Award: Jami Chung, Elena Rothney Music Booster Awards: Kelly Forrester, Emily Ledford Louis Armstrong Jazz Award: Fisher Diede John Philip Sousa Band Award: Alex Lord Michael P. Dendrinos Memorial Scholarship Award: Michael Siciliano The TCC Orchestra was selected to play at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C.

Choir: Chorale Leadership Award: Charlotte Noble, Kaila Szafranski Iron Man Award: Andrew Walsh Music Booster and Outstanding Contributions: Helen Cullen, Logan Dell’Acqua Michigan Verdi Opera Competition & Solo Finalists: Logan Dell’Acqua, Marin Tack Michigan Youth Arts Festival Solo Finalist: Charlotte Noble Mathematics: Ivan Suminski: Michigan Mathematics Prize Competition Qualifier

FIRST Robotics: Noah McKenzie, Amanda Rabb, Stephen Perrin, Jonathon Shank Escanaba FIRST Robotics District Competition: Semifinalist and Creativity Award Traverse City FIRST Robotics District Competition: Quarterfinalist, Chairman’s Award and Entrepreneurship Award Michigan FIRST Robotics State Championship: Imagery Award Art: National Art Honor Society Presidents: Ashley Smith, Clare Sorace Art Prize: Alex Korson: First place painting Brianne Munch: First place photography NMC Regional High School Art Competition: Ashley Smith: Honorable Mention Alex Korson: Honorable Mention Annual Regional Student Art Exhibition, Oliver Art Center: Anders Olson Trashion Fashion Show: Joy Fowler: First place, Judges’ Award Best in Show, Judges’ Award Ashley Smith and Clare Sorace: Judges’ Award “Looks Good on You”

Model UN: Russian Federation: Elena Rothney, Lindsey Porter, Kyle Dotterrer, Chris Hall Chris Hall: Second honors in the Human Rights Committee Award for the Russian Federation Aaron Smits: Best Delegation Award for the crisis situation

Publications: Newspaper: The Black & Gold won a Spartan Award, the highest award given in the state Editors-in-Chief: Ivy Baillie and David Reinke Individual Awards: Ivy Baillie, Meg Caldwell, Zach Egbert, Alex Korson, Connor Hansen, Scott Hardin, Sean Monnier, Jake Myers, Anders Olson, David Reinke, Aaron Smits, Lia Williams, Yearbook: Pines won a Gold Award, the second highest award given in the state Editor-in-Chief: Kaylee Niemi Individual Awards: Meg Caldwell, Nicole Janiga, Kaylee Niemi, Aaron Taylor, London Rauch Debate: Team Captains: Alaina Chela, Clara Trippe Clara Trippe: 4th year pin, All State Alaina Chela: 3rd year pin, All State Tristan Burke: 3rd year pin Aaron Smits: 3rd year pin Writing: London Rauch: National Writers Series Scholarship, Nonfiction Clara Trippe: National Writers Series Scholarship, Fiction Sports: Fall Boys Cross Country: BNC Champions, Regional Champions, 3rd in States Kyle Dotterrer: signed to Dartmouth, All State Girls Cross Country: State Champions, BNC Champions, Regional Runner-up, ranked #24 in the nation, Academic All-

State, team GPA 3.806 Joy Reist: recruited to run for Cornerstone College, Big North All-Conference Team Molly Peregrine: recruited to run for Aquinas College with athletic scholarship, Big North All-Conference Team Equestrian: District Champions, Regional Champions, 8th in States Madeline Aulicino: won individual state titles in 2 events Football: 3rd in the BNC Girls Golf: Regional Runnerups, 10th in States, Team All State Academic with a 3.87 GPA, 8 top 10 finishes (out of 14 tournaments) Zoe Sobeck: All State Academic Boys Soccer: BNC Runner-ups Boys Tennis: BNC Champions, 7th in States, 17th undefeated dual meet season, 8 Invitational Tournament titles, All-Conference players, Academic All-State Skyler Norgaard: All State Singles Hayden Drury & Caleb Heimburger: All-State Doubles, Century Club (100 wins) Larry Nykerk: Regional Coach of the Year Volleyball: 3rd in the BNC Winter Boys Basketball: 5th in the BNC Girls Basketball: 4th in the BNC, Academic All State Bowling: 3rd in the BNC Hockey: BNC Champions, Veteran’s Cup Champions, McCullough Cup Champions, Academic All State 1st Team All State; 1st Team All-Conference: Cam Givens, Derek Schrank Boys Downhill Skiing: BNC Runner-ups, States Runner-ups Girls Downhill Skiing: BNC Runner-ups, States Runner-ups Boys Cross Country Skiing: 4th in States Girls Cross Country Skiing: State Champions Eric Okerstrom: Michigan Ski Council Nordic Ski Coach of the Year Wrestling: 6th in the BNC

Spring Boys Golf: 2nd in TC Invitational tournament Derek Schrank: Standout Senior Girls Tennis: BNC dual meet Champion, top 5 in the State, 6 Invitational Tournament titles Century Club Members: Christi Druskovich, Devon Dotterrer, Abby Palisin Softball: Mary Barbera: Standout Senior Ryan Schiller: Standout Senior Boys Track: BNC Champions, MSU Spartan Indoor Champions, Reeths Puffer Invitational Champions, Rodes Relay Champions, MSU Spartan Classic Champions, Alma College Champions John Piatek: signed with Northwood College Aaron Taylor: 4 event standout in Hurdles - HJ, LJ Girls Track: Alma Scottie Classic Champions, Ken Bell Champions, Spartan Classic Runner-ups, 3rd place Rocket Invitational Courtney Truss-Cadotte: Standout Senior Baseball: Adam Stepan: Standout Senior Girls Soccer: Jalyna Cisneros: Standout Senior Delaney Gartland: Standout Senior Lacrosse: Competed against MHSAA teams as a club team and won Brett Spanski: signed with Division 1 Detroit Mercy (All spring sports are still in progress, thus their lists of awards and commendations and non-exaustive.)

Staff: Thomas Czarny: MIT Most Influential Education Recognition, Environmentalist of the Year in Education Jamie Sandy: MEA Art Competition, Honorable Mention

fifteen

May 20, 2014

in ten years “I’ll be 28 by then, I will be traveling Europe, mostly London, maybe Paris, Italy, probably Australia and parts of Africa for my job as a photographer. I’ll range from Fashion photography to nature photographs, action shots, hopefully working for big magazines.”

-Brianne Munch

“I want to be in a medical program for physical therapy. I already have some experience with it because I shadowed a therapist for a few weeks, and it grew on me. I’d start at NMC, and eventually graduate from Grand Valley State University.”

-Mace Gates

IN

“I want to live in Costa Rica and be an environmental lawyer. I’m incredibly independant, a husband is not a part of the plan. I’ll probably date a really hot Costa Rican man and have a beautiful time.” -Jacqueline Zarzycki

“I see myself as a sign language interpreter living in California with a bunny and a parakeet.” -Francesca Valentage “Hopefully graduated from medical school, with a good job in some sort of medical field. I’m not exactly sure what I want to go into as a career, but I definitely want to do something with science and medicine.” -McKenzie Miller

“After highschool I plan to be a certified nursing assistant then move to an RN, and then I am hopefully in the future, going to be a pharmacist.” -Olivia Aprea

“In the United States Marine Corps. I would be serving in an infantry retaliation or reconnaissance unit.”

-Edward Maxbauer

“If I knew the answer to that question I’d probably be living a lot differently right now. My best guess though is in an office cubicle wishing I could be an astronaut.” -Anthony Miller

“I’d probably like to be done with medschool at that point. I don’t have any goals. It’s good to have goals and to have a plan but I don’t feel that you necessarily should strive towards one idea and obviously, in ten years things are going to change. High school is ending and I’m going to experience a lot of things, so whatever plan I have now is not what I’ll have in ten years.” -Kaylee Niemi

“Hopefully in the military after I get my diploma. I’ve always wanted to be a police officer.

It will be easier to become a cop if you go through the military.” -Jonathon WHO WILL Martinez

TEN YEARS

“I want to be graduated from college with a Masters or Doctorate degree, hopefully living in North or South Carolina, married and starting a family.”

-Nicole Janiga

“Hopefully a successful, happy person that flies airplanes. I want to be a pilot.” -Ben Saunders

“Standing on a pile of dead giraffes, in space.”

-Cole Boyd

10 YOU BE?

“I see myself owning my own engineer firm. I want to engineer infrastructure, such as buildings and bridges.” -Nathan Schlusler

“I want to be promoted in the army to a higher pay grade and be involved in the Special Forces, and MAYBE be married.” -Tanner Bianchi

“Be a millionaire, family practitioner and retired military.”

-Chad Pipkins

“Traveling, seeing the world. Going to every St. Louis Cardinals game and being the general manager of the St. Louis Cardinals. Raking in the dough.”

-Adam Stepan “I will be teaching music somewhere on the side, while having a good job. Hopefully I can land on a job as a developer for a game studio.” -Michael Siciliano

“I really want to be a doctor and work for Doctors Without Borders and see the world. There’s so many different cultures and types of people out there. I want to have new experiences.”

-Jennie Baker “After graduating college I see myself out west living somewhere like Colorado or Utah working for Sherpa Cinema.

Hopefully that job will have me traveling around the world.” -Isabella Mack

“I will be a pilot. My grandpa got me into it. He was obsessed with flying. He had a ton of pictures in his office. He was a door gunner in Korea, he flew for pleasure, too. I really looked up to him.” -AJ Mackie

Sixteen

May 20, 2014

rendezvous

Jack St

caleb heimburger ella Dorman

Fisher Diede

fISHER dIEDE

Charlotte Noble, Vincent Ellul, and Robbie Shields

Seniors cover a plethora of artists “Save My Life” “I looked at artists with similar head and chest voices to me, then I picked their song I connected to the most.”

-Clara Trippe Frank Sinatra’s “That’s Life” sung by Andrew Walsh

Marin Tack Katie Ferguson, Michael Robens, and Emily Ledford Cutouts: C. Hansen and A. Korson Photos: S. Hardin

“The Best Thing” “I picked my song because I really like Ray LaMontagne and artists with beards.”

-Logan Dell’Acqua

“Jealous of the Moon” “I picked my song because holds a deep meaning for me and has an intricate and beautiful harmony.”

-Fisher Diede Florence + the Machine’s “Drumming Song” sung

by Kaila Szafranski

“Bound to You” “I chose my song because it showcases my voice. For senior year I wanted a bigger performance than past years.”

-Myia Hall Boz Scaggs’ “Lido Shuffle” sung by David Stone

“Summer time” “I chose song bec it’s my M favorite.A because Rendezv the jazz c and it’s a traditiona song.”

-Marin Ta

Whitney Houston’s “I Wanna Dance with Somebody” sung by Charlotte Noble

seventeen

May 20, 2014

rendezvous Caleb Heimburger and Michael kellett

tevenson

Maddy ross and sarah gibson

aNDREW wALSH

Marie Laird

Ben Cockfield

rUDY kELLY

Spencer Kroupa

r-

my cause Mom’s Also e it’s vous, club, a al jazz

ack Johnny Cash’s “God’s Gonna Cut You Down” sung by Michael Kellett

“The Wild Hunt” “I picked my song because my brother, Christopher, showed it to me and he is my biggest inspiration musically.”

-Caleb Heimburger

“Tianium” “I picked it because I like the message behind the lyrics, it’s an empowering song. It’s also fun because I get to play guitar with it.”

-Marie Laird Sara Bareilles’ “Brave” sung

by Rudy Kelly

“Rockin’ Robin” “I chose Rockin’ Robin because as a freshman, I felt one day I needed to do a Michael Jackson song.”

-Anthony Miller

“I Have Nothing” I chose it because I had to find a song that was even bigger than last year’s. It seems to be a real crowd pleaser.”

-Helen Cullen

Jim Morrison’s “Touch Me” sung

by Peter Jacobson

Stevie Wonder’s “Sir Duke” sung

by Piper Deans

eighteen

nicole O'Brien

// guest writer

Iceberg, I float on this deserted iceberg dwindling beneath me The only thing I have Abandoned, lonely I float on this deserted iceberg Attempting to maintain my balance Inspite of the ferocious cold,

submissions

An open letter from Senate to the class of 2014 Dear Central: Many of you have a shared passion for improving your community and giving back to our school. This is made obvious by the gallons of blood we donated, the hundreds of pencils and bars of soap we sent to Haiti, and the thousands of dollars Senate donated to the Children’s Advocacy Center, all with your help.

Passion is shown in the athletes who give their all on the field, and the students who cheer in the rain until they sound like old men because their throats are so sore. Passion is also seen in the fierce academic success many seniors have through hard work and intelligence.

For your generosity, your spirit, and your unremitting work ethic, we applaud and thank you.

We, Olivia, Hailey, Danny, and Steph, are privileged to be Senate board members who serve such a wonderful school.

Our school has made national headlines, not only for our high academic achievement and our stellar programming, but also for satire so good that people across the nation think we advocate dirty dancing in our school newspaper.

The class of 2014 experienced a full four years of trimesters and outrageously wild dances, two things that may not be seen again at Central for a while. Our class is also unique for its dedication to our school, to our friends, and for our bro lot exclusivity. Central students care, and this is particularly true of graduating seniors.

Although there are many individuals within our class who vary greatly, we all share a common bond through Central. No matter where we go or who we become, we will forever be Trojans. We

Fearless warriors: ninth-grade wooden ball war

and wrestling wind jaring my body like a captive animal destined to run free Whoa, Whoa, oh shit I fell in The water from my melting iceberg rides over my skin like lotion As I swim Cozy colors bursting boundless Drifting into the realm of What should have been

What will always be Steam from the arctic waters wander Into the abyss My troubled heart Stinging scars Empty, howl cries In God’s ocean Please cleanse me Oh Dear serenity

can always rely on our friends from Traverse City to support us from near or far. We all will take the lessons and the traditions we learned in this school and from each other with us into the future: leadership, respect, pride, and iNtegrity.

Thank you teachers, administrators, staff, parents, and our Senate advisor Mr. Berger.

But most of all, thank you, Class of 2014, Governor Olivia Luciani, Lieutenant Governor Hailey Hushak, Secretary Danny Madion, Treasurer Steph Paniagua

david dunlop

// guest writer

On a hot sunny spring day that smelled of pollen and grass, four fearless warriors readied for battle here on campus during lunch, four balls in hand. Black for Elijah, blue for me, red for Isaac, and green for Mikey. As we stood there huddled, I debriefed them on our mission.

“Alright, here’s the rules of the game,” I said, mustering my best sargent voice.

“Each of you gets one croquet ball. Now, the object is to avoid getting hit by the other three players, while trying to hit

your opponents. It’s classic dodgeball, only with hard, little wooden balls. The last one un-hit wins.”

Surprisingly, no one objected to the potential of being clobbered by a five pound wooden missile-like ball. We all ran in opposite directions about 15-feet apart, and then the balls began to fly.

It never occurred to us that some innocent bystander might get hurt, or that windows might get shattered. We didn’t even think of it, even when one our artillery balls rolled past some students’ feet, or when the balls bounced off the school’s outside walls.

Alliances are always important in war, so I ran over to Isaac and said, “let’s gang up on Mikey!”

This was a great strategic move, as Mikey is as big as a bear. He had the advantage of strength and ferocity; whereas, Isaac and I had speed and mobility.

Elijah, noting an advantage in numbers, turned on Mikey and joined our attack. All three balls: my blue was flung first, followed by Elijah’s black and Isaac’s red, were cannon-fired at Mikey.

BAM!BAM!BAM! Down went the bear,

“

and with his demise came an audience watching our fun stupidity.

Once Mikey was down, we retreated to our corners. Irritated, Mikey retreated.

With our mission accomplished, Isaac and I turned on each other, two warriors perfectly in sync, trying to pummel the other. Elijah, being cautious, chucked his ball at us from a “safe” distance. Neither could take out the other, until, out of nowhere, a black shadow nailed Isaac square on the knee.

BAM! and Isaac was flailing on the ground “YEEEEOOOOOWWWWCCCCCHHH!!!” he screamed, along with some other language that shouldn’t be repeated here.

Down to two, Elijah and I turned on each other as Isaac limped away. Within minutes, Elijah, nailed me in the ankle, so he was victorious. For the rest of day, Mikey was pretty displeased, Isaac and I limped everywhere, and Elijah gloated.

To this day, we all still have our balls from our ninth-grade battle. Isaac has been tempted for a rematch.

Isaac, that’s not gonna happen.

Alliances are always important in war.

“

Oh dear serenity

May 20, 2014

Nineteen

May 20, 2014

submissions

vale dicere: a most fond farewell marco marcote & kyle dotterrer // guest writers So near the end this journey bold — My future all but sterilized, I felt my blood run thick and cold, And suddenly was paralyzed.

Turning towards the unfixed sky, Directions swallowed by the sea, Oh where and when (an empty cry) Had my true self escaped from me?

Thus began my descent to dust.

With mind as hard as emery, Slowly, gently, soft as rust, I faded into memory.

Back to the dawn of these four years — Before the birth so many stories.

Through the portals, swathed in fears, Hewing lore from classroom quarries.

So one year ends, begins another.

I forfeit nought but sanity, As fears of old my gall did

Lexie Penney

// guest artist

smother, And I tumbled into vanity.

My third year found me in despair; Both brain and body overbooked.

I fired blindly an alarum flare that went pitifully overlooked.

Finally I rose from life’s cruel swells But from that mighty altitude, The sounding of triumph’s brazen bells Was drowned out by my lassitude.

I dreamt regrets, passions, desires.

With mind spent and lightly creaking, I saw those hollow dreams on lofty spires Were not at all what I’d been seeking.

I came upon the revelation That what mattered least was augmentation.

And the most noble thing to do, Is give myself to all of You.

Title of piece: Papa What was your inspiration for this piece?

I made this piece in reflection of the light-hearted humor and joy of my grandfather-figure/neighborfriend “Papa”. I’ve always admired the untarnished joy and silly demeanour he has maintained even as an old man.

Can you describe the process of making it?

At first this image was just a photograph taken a few summers ago, which I then made a loose sharpie sketch rendition, while attempting to conserve an energetic feel. Bright colors of acrylic paint were also used to show his great energy.

How is your art/ piece unique?

This piece is unique in the way it incorporates shape, color, and expression to best represent the subject.

What materials went into it?

Acrylic paint.

Mrs. Paul’s open door Olivia Fleet guest writer

//

The class roared with laughter at a Stephen Colbert clip played on the projector, charmed by his wit and satire. Soon his face was replaced with Sean Hannity, as he barked enthusiastically about the issue of the day. This was Mrs. Paul’s lesson plan on media bias and although it seemed like pure fun in class, I realized that I began looking at political news with a sharper eye.

Each lesson was fun and engaging, yet left me with a new understanding about not only the media but the legislative process, the president’s duties, voting patterns and beyond.

This is when I finally began to realize that politics is my calling.

I used to come home from my freshman U.S. History class and regale my parents with my new knowledge. They endured my endless babbling about the Industrial Revolution, Women’s Suffrage, World War II, anything and everything. I still didn’t realize that my passion for this class would later lead me to what I believe is my path in life.

The first day of my junior year, I walked through the door to Mrs. Paul’s classroom and sat down in Civics. I had no idea that the class was about to change my life, nor did I have any idea that the woman sitting behind the desk would be the impetus.

I found the same passion for civics that I had found in U.S. History. I never wanted to miss civics and whenever I did, I found myself thinking of what I had missed. I learned about political ideologies, politics in the media, the many layers of government, and I got to do so during an election year. It quickly became my favorite class and I looked forward to it each day. One night as I was brushing my teeth (the activity that seems to generate the most epiphanies), I realized that this

was what I love most. I love politics, I love learning about government, and I now want to pursue a career in politics.

This compelled me to sign up for AP Government so I could fully immerse myself in all things politics.

It may have taken me years to come to this same realization if I had not had Mrs. Paul as a teacher. Mrs. Paul is the most enthusiastic, most organized teacher I’ve ever had. She genuinely cares about all her students and she pours all of her energy into us. She works hard to make sure that everyone understands and is always accessible to students. Her door is always open. But above all, Mrs. Paul is a wonderful person. She is hilarious, has an incredible work ethic, and is one of the kindest people I’ve ever met.

Mrs. Paul has altered the course of my life. I have no doubt that she will do the same for others. She directly impacts the lives of so many teenagers and is a positive force at our school.

Although most people think I’m crazy when I say I want to go into the political field, Mrs. Paul has given me her unwavering support. I think of her not only as a mentor and a teacher but also as a friend.

Years from now, I will still thank her for teaching me about my career and about life.

Central is so lucky to have Mrs. Paul, whose passion opens minds.

twenty

May 20, 2014

quotes

Your all-time fave memory from high school was what?

What is the best advice you have for the underclassmen?

Winning the talent show my junior year because I got money for having literally no talent, yet together the six of us were able to make something the audience enjoyed.

-Lauren Marsh

Take classes that you’re interested in. It makes high school a lot more fun and interesting, even if you’re not with your friends, you’re doing something that you enjoy. Junior and senior years are a lot tougher than underclassman years. You have to be ready for that, but it is worth it as long as you stay focused.

-Chris Hall

“

“

Winning assassins.

Playing with my team took my mind off the stress of school for a while, even though we didn’t get any sleep for five weeks.

-Marco Morcote

”

“

There was this time in ninth grade when my friends Isaac, Michael, Elijah and I went outside to play dodgeball. Instead of using actual dodgeballs, we used croquet balls. In the end, we were all bruised up. It was so fun, though.

-David Dunlop

“

”

The memories I don’t have would have to be my favorite.

Wink wink.

-Haley Pierce

“

”

Beating West 3-0 at our house for soccer was just amazing. We killed them.

-Jacob Muessig

”

“

”

I would say my Tennessee spring break trip. Me and some very old friends went on a road trip all the way to the Tennessee wilderness. We found amazing cliffs to camp by and manned out, living off of sausage and beans for a week.

-Tyger Bell

“

”

The hockey and football games.

The student sections were always a lot of fun. Also, the dances my freshman and sophomore years were the best!

-Makenna Beers

“

”

The hockey game in Detroit was fun. I liked being able to not go to school while hanging out with my friends for awhile, and supporting our team in a different city.

-Adam Canute

“

”

“

“

Freshmen, don’t be intimidated by the upperclassmen.

Everyone talks game, but no one really gets their head swirled in the toilet. Obviously respect them, though.

-Monique Smith

Dance and sing as much as you can because AP classes suck all the joy out of the world. But take them anyway because the teachers are generally excellent.

-Jill Holstad

“

No matter what people say about you, be yourself. You can be the weirdest person in this school, but at least you are yourself. Do what makes you happy because in the end, that is all that matters and always have thick eyebrows.

-Danielle Evina

”

Do not speak unless spoken to, and never park in The Bro Lot unless you are a senior.

-Charlie Long

“

”

Don’t get behind on your work. ‘Oh I’ll just do it at home’ is not a good plan. I almost didn’t graduate because of that attitude.

-Allen Prause

” “

”

”

Make the most out of everything.

-Caroline Gardner

”

“

“

”

Push yourself, no matter how difficult it may seem. If you don’t, you are wasting your time.

-Josh Belcher

”

twenty-one

May 20, 2014

submissions Ashley smith

Perfect future life

// guest artist

Title of piece: Transparency What was your inspiration for this piece?

It was a concentration piece for AP Studio Art. It shows how animals and humans are similar, someone told me Octopi blend into their surrounding people try and blend in with other people.

Can you describe the process of making it?

I sketched it out, painted with water color, made it darker, and shaded it in.

How is your art/piece unique?

I don’t think a lot of people draw octopi sitting on a couch. It portrays an animal acting like a human.

What materials went into it?

Watercolor. Graphite.

sara korb I had always imagined myself growing up to be a millionaire with a house on beachfront property, having a nice sports car, and having a top of the line job. My freshmen year of high school I began to work toward that dream. I had aspirations to go to The University of Michigan and follow that up with medical school, hoping I could be one of the top Forensic Psychiatrists in the country.

That reality came to a sad end my senior year when I was smacked in the face by failure. My perfect future life meant that I needed an aggressive schedule, so I took three AP classes, and Front Street Writers (FSW), a class that demands creativity and copious amounts of writing. But by the end of first trimester I had failed my AP Calculus class, and was borderline failing another class.

My heart sank. I had never seen anything lower than a B before. In failing BC Calc, I was downgraded to AB in hopes that I could improve. Still, I clung to my dream. I tried to tell myself it was just the first trimester, I would do better next tri. My perfect future life was intact, but it started to feel distant.

But with three AP classes and FSW, drop-

// guest writer

ping me down to an easier calculus class didn’t seem to be getting me any closer to my future sports car. I still had no idea why I was finding the area under curves, or what limits would help me figure out the absorbance of a substance. All of the concepts and formulas seemed to go right over my head. My selfconfidence shrank. I was miserable.

All but in my Front Street Writers class. As numbers and algorithms escaped me, letters and sentences became more familiar to me.

I put more time into what I was writing, and there I felt joyful, instead of frustrated. I was able to say what I wanted and I wasn’t wrong.

I could use my own English language to communicate. I was able to create characters and worlds to escape my present reality.

I didn’t give up on my perfect future, but I no longer felt the need to take it all on at once. By third tri, I dropped both my Calc and AP Chem. These are classes a Forensic Psychiatrist needs. Classes I can take in college, if I choose to do so.

Instead, I focused on the classes I enjoyed most. I don’t regret my choice for a minute, even though I had to set my perfect future aside. Without struggling and failing in those classes, I never would have found what I enjoy most.

My failure brought clarity. It forced me to shuffle my dream and focus on my strengths.

I may not be able to find the absorbance of a substance, or even solve the area under a curve right now, but my perfect future will just have to wait.

A happily uncomfortable spot // guest writer

From backstage, I breathe roughly, my fingers entangling themselves, and my palms sweating ferociously. As I get up from my chair, I trip slightly on my dress, but approach the microphone with what I hope will be perceived as confidence.

Placing my score down on the stand gently, I try not to make a single sound in the hushed auditorium. I stare into blinding lights as I raise my head. A jazzy piano melody emerges from the silence, I close my eyes, and begin to sing. My voice quavers at the first chord, but as I feel the music seeping into my bones, I stand a little taller and allow myself to be fully engulfed in the spotlight.

Although I absolutely love to sing, I am not a singer. You can find me belting out my favorite songs driving down the street, sliding across my kitchen floor in socks, or dancing to the radio in grocery stores.

When it is socially acceptable to do so, I am singing and dancing. But singing in a formal context, where the audience had an expectation that I was worthy of the stage was, to say the least, terrifying. However, after the doing the same Broadway workshop for three summers in a row and being nagged constantly about

“

being the one participant who refused to sing, I decided it was time to conquer my fear of singing for an audience.

To be content calls forth the image of tanning on a beach, lounging in a jacuzzi, or watching movies with a buttery bowl of popcorn.

But for me, in one of the most nerve-wracking moments of my life, I was content.

There I was, shifting back and forth on my feet, pulling at my dress with shaking hands, and pouring my stuttered voice out into that microphone. I was proud of myself for being in exactly that spot, a spot I was so happily uncomfortable.

I was proud of myself for being in exactly that spot

“

jill holdstad

In those eternal moments of agitation, I was conquering, I was thriving, I was relishing in the anxiety that coursed through my veins as I sung away my fears, and for that, I was perfectly content.

twenty-two

Over think Sometimes I get trapped in cognition, Wondering what a question feels like:

As it forms in your head and

As it rolls off your tongue and

As it lingers in the air

I get caught in the processing, My head circling at the thought Of soft fingertip on collarbone Eyes shut with thinking, As if thinking of the moment makes the moment more real, As if tripping on instant replays makes the instant last longer I do it in realtime.

I am in the minutes between where we were and Where we are I’m still there

Sorting it out, filing away the seconds

meg reilly

// guest writer

I can’t open my eyes, can’t quite lift my head I’m hoping you’ll catch it because the thoughts make it heavy

It droops, it sags with the memories I’m making The ones I’ll watch later But I’m faulty and I’m flawed.

I will forget.

You would think that the forgetting makes room, that the forgetting leaves space But to forget makes for frustration, forgetting leaves boulders in its place The forgetting weighs me down more than any memory intact ever could So don’t question the next time I can’t slow down and listen to my breath: I’m in my head.

clare sorace

Title of Piece: Catching Noah What was your inspiration for this piece?

The Book Catcher in the Rye. I was inspired by the metaphor for loss of innocence, the children falling off the cliff of childhood, and the main character’s obsession of catching the children before they

// guest artist

fall. My message was portrayed by a larger hand reaching out towards a larger hand.

Can you describe the process of making it?

I did a sketch of the cliff, and then I discovered old hand sketches which I had done. then I did the watercolor background. Then kept layering from lighter to darker to create the cliffs and shadows of the cliffs, and then I drew in rye plants with graphite.

How is your art/piece unique?

I had never used acrylic before in my artwork. I don’t do landscapes very much so that was a first too.

I usually just do people. Someone said that I based things off of observations but then I add a twist of my own to make my art different from reality.

What materials went into it?

Blood, sweat and tears.

May 20, 2014

Home

submissions Jacqueline Ewing // guest writer

I wonder how college might alter how I see Traverse City. I picture myself returning home and driving down U.S. 31 from my childhood home on the east side, to my teenage places of adventure on the west side. I’ll drive past the boat launch at the end of Four Mile Road with the long, metal dock stretching to the dark water, where, in elementary school, my ShirleyTemple-looking best friend and I would race to the end—bare feet pounding on rusting metal—and dive into dark blue waves. And I wonder if I will still be able to feel the chill of the bay on my youthful shoulders. I’ll drive past Lakeshore Resort, my very first job at fifteen, and smell powdered comet on a damp rag and feel my dry hands cracking from bleach and rough cotton. And I wonder if I will miss the early morning labor. I’ll drive past Sugar Beach Hotel and remember the night my high school sweetheart and I drove his father and stepmother to the hotel after their wedding. I’ll remember the sincerity on his father’s face as he sat in the back seat of the car and told me I was in the circle. And I wonder if they will still be a part of my life. I’ll drive past the pier and think of the boy who drowned in the harbor the day before dance team camp. I’ll remember the first time I held a boy’s hand on the rocks along the shore and smelled yellowing grass and elephant ears in the summer’s heat.

And I wonder if I will still be able to feel with the same passion.

And after I pass the Open Space, I’ll cruise down to 72 and forget about the speed limit. I’ll remember the 90 degree days in my best friend’s van on our spontaneous road trips and wonder if I’ll still have the same sense of freedom.

I wonder if the miles will change my view of home while I’m away at college. Or if my experiences and the people I meet across those miles will shine new light on the beauty of my roots.

twenty-three Love to thee

May 20, 2014

submissions

Derek Schrank // guest writer

Brianne Munch

//

guest artist

Title: Portal What was your inspiration for this piece?

That was my friend. I was taking photos of her for a torn self portrait. I was trying to take pictures of her personality through picture.

She kind of hides herself a lot, so that’s what I was trying to get at through the arms.

Can you describe the process of making it?

The best lighting was outside, and it was an overcast day. Her house is painted white so I

put her in front of her house for the picture.

Lighting was good, everything was good. I would just have her go into different positions.

How is your art/piece unique?

Everything else is more full-body. That’s what makes it so unique, is that it’s really up close and personal. Other than that, it’s just arms.

What materials went into it?

I used her Fuji Film Camera, and I have printed it at Sam’s Club on film paper.

Mountain bound: where I truly belong There’s no place I’d rather imagine myself than nestled between the mountains in been there, my heart has Denver. already decided that’s the And not only is college a place I need to anchor. time for new opportunities There hasn’t been a and experiences, but it’s also time in my life where the my one-way ticket to my Rocky Mountains haven’t dream state. I’ve got my eye been looming in the near on the prize and there will be distance. My mother has no greater reward Crystal blue skies, contrasted than the day I receive with jagged edges of purple- an admittance letter to the University of grey rock appeal to me.

Colorado, Denver, except maybe the day I finally always been the mountain get on the airplane. Not every range’s biggest fan, and I scholar puts such heavy emam my mother’s child. Her phasis on where their school stories of time spent skiing of choice is, but I’ve learned and hiking along Colorado’s that there is only one place beautiful ridges have inspired that I truly belong. me to venture there myself The most common inquisione day. The thought of crystion seniors seem to face is tal blue skies, contrasted with the dreaded, “What do you jagged edges of purple-grey plan to do with your life?” rock appeal to me in a way The question is asked so I can barely put into words. often it’s almost become cliMy imagination along with che. My plan has already been personal research and careful determined, and I hope to consideration have made finish it in the mountains. me certain that the Centen-

London RAUCH // guest writer

“

Growing up in a town that’s too small has taught me quite a bit about who and where I want to be. Though I’m not quite sure about the first, I have established exactly where it is that I would I like to go.

The mountains.

If there’s anything that motivates me to work toward success, it’s the thought of spending my sunsets in the Colorado mountains. Although I’ve never personally

nial State is calling me home.

What is Love to thee?

Is it something for you with someone to be, or just an inconvenience to your every day, is it something you want or something you need?

Does Love wake you up in the morning, or do you just wish it away, is it the fly buzzing around your head on a hot summer day, or the birds in the morning waking you to say “hey”?

When your car won’t go, is Love the key, or do you just get together for a cup of tea?

Do you fear Love, is it the kind of fear that makes you walk away, or the kind of fear that makes you go for it?

Will you do anything to find Love, what if Love walks out on you?

Will you lay in bed, crying because Love got the best of you, or chase it down and find it again?

When you look deep inside yourself do you find a willingness to Love, or will you search for Love again and again because there is no feeling like it?

I’ll tell you what Love is to me, Love melts my stress like an ice cube in submission to the sun my heart is the engine and my Love is its ignition key to me, Love is so

much more than just the shrines because only the loved are happy and only the happy are loved Love doesn’t have to take my hand– I’ll reach for Love and stretch across the entire cosmos to be with Her and in time, She will find Her way to me That my dear friend, is Love to me What is Love to thee?

“

ELLIS BEGLEY

// guest artist

Title: Untitled What was your inspiration for this piece?

Nature was my inspiration for the actual concept, however the project was a required design assignment for a portfolio submission to University of Michigan Taubman School of Architecture.

Can you describe the process of making it?

First I had to decide

from which elements this bus stop would shelter people.

Next I had to design the wall structure and pattern. I replicated the structure of trees, and incorporated their organic qualities into the pattern of the wall.

How is your art/piece unique?

It represents my interest in the built and the

natural environment.

Not every bus stop has a second floor, a staircase, and a porch swing.

What materials went into it?

Google Sketchup, Indesign, and a light board. This specific version is done in graphite on Velum.

twenty-four

May 20, 2014

God has always been a part of my life Kijlee Beehler // guest writer

er to prepare for the worst because I would most likely not survive.

I was born with half a lung, which became infected. My heart flickered on and off, and nourishment was only possible because of a feeding tube inserted in my stomach. The only thing sustaining my delicate little body was the wires, tubes, and breathing mask.

During what should have been a celebratory time, the birth of a baby girl, my family was in that quiet time when we talk to God and ask Him please, please please. . .

The wife of my pastor came in with my grandma and prayed over me. They asked God for healing and for strength.

The next days in the hospital I grew stronger and healthier. I began breathing on my own, and was ripping off the wires taped to my cheeks, taking patches of skin with them. Their prayer was heard and

“

God answered. There are reasons why miracles happen but we as humans do not understand them because we do not see the whole picture, only God does.

Now that I am graduating, I am forced to look at what I’m going to do with my life, how I’m going to live it, and what will define the purpose of my life. Since my birth, God has always been a part of my life, getting me through childhood hardships, coping with an alcoholic father, my parents’ divorce, and the challenges of being a teen.

I am going to make my own life; one full of change, happiness, and something worth fighting for. I have been blessed with the greatest of gifts. When you’re supposed to die against all odds but end up surviving, you think carefully on the purpose of your life.

submissions

I was born premature, two months before my arrival date.

Most people come into this world smiling, greeting their proud parents, and going home to a happy house. I am not most people.

I was born premature, two months before my arrival date. Not crying or smiling, looking a shade of purple and tiny, I was placed on my mother’s stomach. I was hardly breathing and almost dying after having just been given life. The doctors told my moth-

”

Mustached musician Alex Sholten

// guest writer

One week, ten songs, two hours of practice the day before the show. I can do this... right? Well, if practice makes perfect, then this will be far from perfect.

My train of thought was interrupted by Troy, our band’s vocalist.

“We go on in ten minutes, you guys!”

No pressure, no pressure at all. Ironically, I was shocked how composed I was. Most people talk about stage fright, like they’re giving a speech to thousands while nude, but I couldn’t relate. Although I was confident in my music skills, live performance is different. Yet here I stood, backstage, a member of the final lineup of the Michigan Deathcore act Memories Of A Murder.

My hand gripped my Fender Jazz bass tightly, as I bounced with excitement. I had unstoppable energy--I felt like a ferocious animal, ready to strike.

I was beyond ready. Let’s wreck something.

But Justin our guitarist and my

closest friend, wasn’t quite ready. He was struggling to unload equipment.

“Hey man, do you need help?”

“Yeah dude,” he replied, short of breath, “help me out.” We hefted the heavy amp out of the broken back door of my car, just as Troy approached us. His hand outreached, holding something.

“Put these on,” he said, grinning oddly. Mustaches. Fake mustaches.

Well, no matter how badly I f*** this up, I’ll be remembered for my fake mustache, if not for my musicianship. But would the audience take us seriously? Maybe it’ll conceal my identity.

Mustached, we flung our equipment on stage, and scrambled with wires. We set up our stage in a matter of minutes. Plugged in ourselves in seconds.

“For one last time will you all welcome MEMORIESSS OF A MURDERRRRR!” We opened with “Welcome to Shumsky.” The crowd ignited and scrambled to

scream their fair share of lyrics back in the microphone, moshing and climbing over each other. It was just the disorder and chaos we intended.

This is everything I’ve expected, and more.

The aftermath of our thirty minute set was impressive: a broken guitar strap, broken mini trampoline, knocked over drum mic; I choked on my fake mustache and lost my shoe.

I will never forget my first show and I’m looking forward to years of driving across country with my closest friends, performing again and sharing music.

david reinke

// news editor & editor-in-chief Title: I’m Looking Up What was your inspiration for this piece?

I think all artists, at one time or another, consider themselves dark in a way. For this piece, I wanted to do something that was darker, but wasn’t overly emotional at the same time.

Something that looked profound, but wasn’t sappy about it. The result was this, which to me is less dark and more ponderous.

Can you describe the process of making it?

I gridded the shape, just because that’s the only way it was going to ever be that accurate of a face. But the painting part is all my own, like the strokes and colors and such, which is why it’s one of my favorite pieces.

How is your art/piece unique?

The color scheme incorporates a lot of different shades from the spectrum, but altogether it has a dingy feel to it. I just think it’s very harmonious and yet mysterious at the same time.

What materials went into it?

Lots of acrylic paint and time.

twenty-five

May 20, 2014

retirees

Christy Vadeboncoeur Teaching: 27 years Position: Teacher

Christy Vadeboncoeur: “After twenty seven years of teaching, it is time for me to move on to a slower pace in life. I plan on traveling, gardening, reading books, golfing and having time to exercise daily. Being able to schedule an appointment or going to the grocery store at ten am on a Tuesday will be a perk that I am looking forward to, for some crazy reason.

A highlight for me has been the Sci-Ma-Tech program. I have been involved since the first year and it has blossomed. The leadership and support of Diane Walker, John Failor and Toby Tisdale has made the teaching

part much easier and the program will continue to flourish. It has been a pleasure to work with a caring, wonderful staff. The staff members become part of your extended family and lifelong friendships are formed.

Not coming to work in the fall will be strange, but I am sure I will find plenty of things to do to occupy my time. Thank you for the memories.”

Assistant Principal Toby Tisdale: “She has always been able to provide her students a crucial stepping stone into a very difficult subject. She’s been a teacher who makes the the transition as comfortable as she can through her hands-on approach and still provides the rigor.”

Megan Puckett: “Class just flowed very well. I felt active, that the whole class was active, and I believe I retained the information instead of just memorizing . She always took time for me and anyone with questions.”

Polly Walker Teaching: 30 years Position: Teacher

Polly Walker: “I can’t believe I am finishing my thirtieth year with TCAPS! I am so proud to teach at the school from which I graduated. Students over the years have given me a lifetime of smiles and funny stories. Over the years I have tried to instill in each student that if you believe in yourself, anything is possible. Life can be difficult, but with a positive attitude and the love of friends and family and doing all you can to live a healthy lifestyle, nothing will ever be out of your reach. Thank you to my friends at TCAPS-wish you the best and hope all of you can enjoy the life of a retiree soon!”

Zach Girard-Pampu: “Mrs. Walker is a very kind, friendly, caring teacher. She really connects with the students and cares for any injuries or any problems we’re having. She also helps us achieve our goals. She’s always been there for me, cheering me on when I’ve had any problems. She’s all around a really good person who I’ve known her for quite a while as a family friend.”

Carrie Wynkoop: “I’ve known her a long time, through her son, and she’s always been someone I could go to.

She’s motivated so many people, not just her athletes but even her regular gym students. She pushes every student to try their very hardest.”

Hunter Schliess: “She’s really kind and generous. I’m going to miss her so much because I won’t be seeing her in advisory everyday. She’s one of those people that anything she says grows on you. The main lessons that has stuck with me is hard work really pays off.”

Jack Cooney: “She’s earned her retirement. She was very helpful, always eager to help any way she could for every question. She was there to help for my Sci-Ma-Tech symposium project too. I don’t know if I would have been able to do it without her.”

Teacher Marcie King: “She’s been a great mentor to me. She’s taught me a lot about how to teach, the stuff you don’t really learn at teacher’s school.

Her emphasis on teaching kids--you have to learn this, this is foundational material--for example. It’s gonna be hard not have her with me next year, I’m going to miss her as the comedic relief part of my day.”

Teacher Erin Kosch: “She’s very passionate about chemistry, and has had just a big of an impact on her regular-ed students as her Sci-Ma-Tech ones. She’s made it her goal to work just as hard with kids that have less interest in chemistry, and gives every student the chance to understand and get that passing grade. I’m going to miss her wit and dry sense of humor.”

Teacher Cindy Pascoe: “Mrs. Walker and I were on the same track team at Michigan State, so we first crossed paths because I was injured right when she was coming on as a freshman. We have that connection because we had the same coaches. My first teaching job was at Sutton’s Bay and she studenttaught there. She then taught at what was called the Junior High, now West Junior High, and I got a job there quite a few years later, so I saw her again.

Then, she came over here before I did.

I’m really going to miss her because of her positive attitude towards the students and how she treats them with respect. She has fun and makes her classes enjoyable and has always been very supportive of me.”

Coach John Lober: “That means I’m getting old if she’s retiring because she was a former student of mine. I’ve known her since she was 15 years old.

It’s a cool thing when someone goes off to school and comes back to teach.

Both of her daughters are college athletes and her son will be too. She’s done a great job. Being a mother and a teacher is not an easy thing.”

Photo: S. Hardin

Steve Cousins

Position: Superintendent Q: Of what are you most proud?

A: The strategic plan that we’ve developed and the programs that we’ve implemented as a result from them. Front Street Writers, there is nothing else like that in the Midwest in a public school. The three early college academies that we’ve developed with NMC, elementary world language, balancing our budget, and promoting the robotics program at West. Expansion of the college classes at both campuses and International Baccalaureate program.

Q: What do you want students to know?

A: How much smarter they are than my generation, how much harder they have to work than my generation, and that their expectations are much higher than they were in my generation.

Q: The most important thing you’ve done during your tenure would be?

A: I have always tried to keep the best interest of kids as my only decision-making filter.

That’s a conscious process that I always go through. It doesn’t matter if it’s a little decision or a big decision, it’s what’s going to be the best thing for kids. I’ve persevered on that.

Q:What advice would you give to teenagers?

A: Grab every opportunity to educate yourself that you possibly can and don’t always assume that it has to be done in a formal way that’ll put you $100,000 in debt. Never ever get caught up in the drudgery of a job. Do something that will bring you happiness and that will make you feel like you’re contributing to the world.

Q: What do you want the community to know?

A: Keep focusing on making improvements to the system that will make more kids successful in this environment. Never think that you’ve got it right. There are always improvements to be made. Sometimes we behave like we’ve got it all right, but that is not the case. There is always something we can do to make the life of a kid better.

twenty-six

May 20, 2014

teacher advice

What advice would you give the seniors?

“

Follow your passion, whatever that passion is and stay out of jail. Find a place to study that’s not your dorm; that’s where all the hanky panky and pizza happens, and homework never gets done. Go to the library. The biggest change will be more independence to make their own decisions.

-Katy Shelley-Barnes, Language Arts

“

Keep your head on a swivel. You’re all invited to come back and celebrate cookie day next year.

-Doug McGee, PE

“

”

“

“ ”

Find something that you love doing so you can always be happy in life. Anything is possible if you work at it and stay positive through it.

-Katherine Brege, Math, Crime & Justice

People can be really successful in high school, but then they feel like they aren’t so special. Believe in yourself even in situations where you feel insignificant.

-Jami Grant, French

“

Find something that you enjoy and do it to the fullest. I had a lot of fun with the seniors. They’ve done a good job leading the school the last couple of years.

-Joe Forlenza, History

”

”

If you are going away to college, don’t waste your time messing around because it is very expensive.

-Christy Vadeboncoeur, Chemistry

” “

”

”

”

On graduation day, the cliques that formed in high school disappear. They start being what adults call friends, out in the open world. At class reunions, the whole jock/nerd thing doesn’t exist. You have little time before you get weighed down with life, and student debt, jobs, and the responsibilities of children. Take advantage of it.

-Hal Lalonde, Math

Never get less than 12 hours of sleep, never play cards with a guy who has the same name as a city and don’t go anywhere near a woman with a tattoo of a dagger anywhere on her body. There’s nothing wrong with peeing your pants.

-Mike Glee, PE

“

“

While high school in some ways prepares you for life, life really is much better after. Enjoy these last few weeks, consider your graduation a step towards bigger and better things.

-Bryn Lynch, Spanish

“

”

Do what you love. I really enjoyed getting to know the seniors. You’re a great group of students and I wish you all the best!

-Jaime Sandy, Art

“

”

I’m going to miss you, you have been amazing and you have made it very fun the past few years. My best advice is do what you’re passionate about.

Don’t be so serious all the time, don’t take yourself so seriously.

Have fun, don’t let the time pass you by, have fun with it.

- Amy Harper, Art

”

“

If you want to travel, go to college.

I studied abroad for a semester and it was an amazing experience.

It really opened me up to the world, I learned so much, and I still had time to explore the area. So my advice to the seniors is to travel and see the world. You learn so much about yourself and gain many great experiences.

-Paige Paul, History

”

“

Follow your dreams, but make sure they are reasonable.

-Pat Bowen, Adminstrative Assistant

”

“

Keep a positive outlook and hard work. There will be a payoff eventually, but sometimes it’s a while coming.

-Joel Dorgan, Math

”

May 20, 2014

ads

twenty-seven

twenty-eight

May 20, 2014

ads

twenty-nine

May 20, 2014

thanks

To Mrs. Yeomans: “She is very particular and she has a great eye for detail.

Anytime I write something and I think it’s finished, she’s always able to help me improve upon it in some fashion that I wouldn’t have noticed otherwise.”

-Aaron Smitts ‘14 “Yeomans really kicks my butt when it comes to graphics. If she sees something she doesn’t like, she tells me immediately and is very straight up about everything, which is awesome.”

-Connor Hansen ‘14

To Yearbook: “The Yearbook staffers are always nice and they don’t mind sharing the pub. The photogs are also great about sharing the camera.”

-Margo Hoagg ‘16 “Yearbook has shown me the definition of tolerance. They‘re always are kind to me, even when I am not at my best every day. For that I owe them my highest gratitude.”

-Grayson Lowe ‘15

To Dr. Vandermolen: “It’s important to thank Dr. Vandermolen for all the support he has given us this year. Even when we’ve had some controversial stuff, he’s been at our side through the end.”

-John Minster ‘15 “I’m very grateful to Dr. Vandermolen for being such a great administrator to us. His generosity with our publication, and giving his time to us for press conferences is very appreciated.”

-Fiona Muha ‘14

Missi Yeomans

Rick Vandermolen

Oh jeez, where to begin. Yeomans, your dedication to this publication is impossible to replicate. You consistently miss your son’s track meets and your yoga classes for us, yet you remain tolerant of our somewhat rowdy behavior and busy schedules we have ourselves.

You help control our near insanity when we drive you to insanity almost daily. Without you we would be nowhere. Your ability to connect to us and to Photo: courtesy of National Geographic get us to work to our fullest ability is a truly special talent. Though we often get on your nerves with laziness, tardiness or just plain silliness, you are the ever watchful, ever tolerant mother to our wild child.

Long-winded speeches and scoldings frequent our ears, but so do quality critiques and clever humor.

The way you help us transform our stories from good to great is amazing, and your eye for detail on graphics and design never falters.

The anguish you go through listening to the outlandish Leek ideas each issue without shutting down the page is impressive.

The unusual but quality vocabulary and determined nature you bring to the pub are traits we all truly appreciate.

Our Spartan success and numerous individual awards from the Michigan Interscholastic Press Association (MIPA) would be nowhere near possible without your guidance.

We hail you for your journalistic ability. We commend you for your kindness and commitment. We thank you for being our advisor.

Dr. V, you humbly use your mighty powers for good in the Black and Gold Publication. Without you, we would have not have our greatest supporter to defend us from the slings and arrows of our outrageous fortune, or to put us in our rightful place.

Your honesty is perfectly balanced with your kind support.

Whether it’s making time for our lengthy press conferences about topics Photo: courtesy of A-Z Animals you’ve probably had to discuss a million times, or standing up for us when the community questions some of our work (our brilliant, if not often troublesome satire page), you’re always unflinchingly supportive of our endeavours.

You see the hard work our staffers put in on a daily basis.

You see the value and importance of newspaper, even when others do not, because you appreciate the quality of our work.

Even when we ask questions you’d rather not answer, you try hard to help us understand. You also like that we are out covering real events of our peers’ excellence.

You are, in short, the publisher we need. With you there are never angry tantrums, or decrees. You deliver parental guidance as one would to an often rambunctious child, with outstanding good handwriting.

Regardless of our ad revenue, we are most certainly in your debt.

Yearbook

Photo: S. Hardin

Photo: S. Hardin

Photo: S. Hardin

Yearbook. Our sister publication. Our fellow pubbers. Oh, the things we do for each other. Whether it’s getting photos for us on deadline or bringing delicious delicacies, you never fail to help us when we’re in need.

Even in times of chaotic strife in the pub, when we call for your help you never disappoint. We do concede, our messy pizza boxes and spilled coffee cups could be curtailed bit more, but you never judge us too harshly. When staffers overflow the pub during your class, you continue to leave the door open for us to get our work finished.

You get what we’re going through, and that’s something very few others can say. We commend you for your hard work and dedication to the most anticipated publication of the year, and are very excited for it.

Sharing a room with a sibling can be hard, but sharing one with two groups of thirty kids is hell, yet you always find a way to balance our chaos with your own serenity. We thank you.

thirty

May 20, 2014

thanks

We’ve been through a lot together. I’m glad you’re not bitter, this has been swollen. trucking you back and forth between school and your house is just an (unwanted) bonus. Thick and thin, fighting tooth and nail, like peanut butter and jelly.

Our conversations are always top notch, a vast majority of it shall not and can not be published here. Though we’ve had our tumultuous years, the rest of the time has been completely solid, and every step we take in our friendship only gets better. And then there’s the fact that we rule the Pub with an iron first. We have the chemistry of AP Chem, we’re as calculating as AP Calc, and we run this joint like they run in Gym. No group of people has ever been more happy to live under a certifiable dictatorship; even the likes of the great Joe Murray have been surpassed by our cooperative greatness. Is it coincidence that we both like medium twists with sprinkles in a cone? Perhaps. But has your ever-evolving hair intimidated the s*** out of me? Hell yes! There was a time when I loved you—but then I hated you—but now I love you again. You are my rock, unweathered by the winds of time.

Love, David

Our journey began freshman year, even before I joined newspaper. I thought you were the bees knees. That year, I convinced you to skip class with me and walk to Mancinos (and promptly called my mother right after to apologize for missing school). We passed notes in U.S. History, and got yelled at by Mr. Ludka. In tenth grade our reign in newspaper started, and we were dubbed “Davy” by Yeomans. After that, we dated (haha) for a whole month or so. It was weird. The post break-up tension lasted for the rest of the year, and I thought I would die, not having my super best muffin friend by my side. But as junior year rolled around, everything started to feel normal again. And now, as seniors in our last week of high school, I have never felt closer. You are my best friend and I love you. It has been literally such a joy to run the B&G along side of you. Even as I’m writing this I am just smiling (and I so know you are going to think this is the cheesiest thing you have ever read). Thank you for always making me laugh, telling me the straight up truth, listening to my piercing drawl. You’re my crazy diamond.

Love, Ivy

Lia Williams ‘14

Allison Taphouse ‘14

Scott Hardin ‘14

Jake Myers ‘14

Jeff Comerford ‘14

Connor Hansen ‘14

Sean Monnier ‘14 Anders Olson ‘14

Ivy Baillie ‘14

You’re such a genuine leader and friend, and it has been a blessing to work with you. Your unwavering commitment motivates us all to take that extra time with a staffer, or read through our stories again. Thank you for making our memories at the B&G priceless.

Fiona Muha ‘14

Newspaper would not have been the same without your monster appetite and wholesome perspective on life. You have showed us that a powerful personality goes a long way in finishing a quality page. It has been amazing to watch you fight for your staffers, stories and self.

Meg Caldwell ‘14 Alex Korson ‘14

You will hear this many You pioneered our fabulous Mag page like more times throughout a pro. Your “What I Be” life: you are just an incredpage pushed the realm of ibly talented artist. You “Human Interest” to new are obsessively dedicated, levels. Your leadership stubborn, intelligent, a fab skills have both nurtured boyfriend (according to and disciplined young photogs. Thank you for it Ivy), and a better graphics all! We wish you good luck editor than the future will ever supply. Remember us making the NYT Best when you are famous.

Seller list.

David Reinke ‘14

All photos: courtesy of National Geographic and A-Z Animals

You ensured no photos went untaken this year, You will always be a poo- and man, were you picky dle, and we say that with about every image. We the best intentions. You’ve commend your dedication unleashed your stronglyto two student publicavoiced opinions and goofy tions. While you have self, and looked glamorwowed us with your killer ous while doing it. Thanks photos, we were even for all your great packagmore charmed with your ing ideas. We appreciate all sense of humor on and of your hard work. off the Leek. Stay rad.

You have been, without a doubt, the most loyal pubber around. Deadline wouldn’t be the same without your help... and your box of Little Caesars.

Your genuine attitude makes those long days worth it, and we can’t thank you enough for that.

You have single handedly taken on Illustrator with unparalleled gusto. We know graphics are demanding, but your follow through and patience with us has been greatly appreciated. Thank you for making us look so pretty.

Draw on, young one.

Going into The Leek, no one expected you to step up to the responsibility the way you have. Your humor is always solid, your stories—rock hard.

And as is often required when writing satire, you have continually demonstrated that you intuitively know what will get the most laughs. Well done.

As our presiding flirt aficionado, we have enjoyed your relentless sense of humor, your playful mood and great sports stories.

You added a lot to the sports page. The layer of romance and silliness you add to the Pub is one of those things that is such a rare and enjoyable quality.

Zach Egbert ‘14

You truly are a “Silver Unicorn” both on and off the field. Your mastery of the business side of newspaper absolutely destroyed our expectations, even sometimes selling TOO many ads (Seriously, how is that possible?) You commanded the ads page and played back up on sports.

It has been a joy to have your reliable, relaxed and talented presence in the Pub. We only wish you would have joined sooner.

You arrived with an eye for design, and your photos are seriously some of the most aesthetically pleasing we have ever published.

thirty-one

May 20, 2014

thanks

Aaron Smits ‘14

As the best dressed staffer, you quickly impressed us with your writing prowess. Your level-headedness calms the Pub after your witty humor and romantic relationships stir up some much-needed discussion.

Brianna Worthington

You came back! They say if you let something go and it comes back, it belongs to you. You are the quintessential example of this, for you own all the aspects in your role as ‘14 staffer.

Emma Caldwell ‘15

Our little Aphid. It is so difficult to encapsulate our thanks to such a versatile, intelligent, and sassy editor. Your genuine compliments and off-the-wall remarks keep us laughing through deadlines.

Erin Lipp ‘15

As the queen of the balancing act, your flexibility benefits the entire staff. You serve as a guiding voice, light presence in the dark, and an approachable leader. We anticipate great things of you.

Dylan Huey ‘15

Your skills as a writer have gradually built over the course of this year, even though you were thrown into the midst of it with little formal training. We appreciate your constant light-hearted humor.

Shaine Kearney ‘15

Though your silent and somewhat guffawed exterior allows you to blend in, your work is more often than not exceptional. And we all love when you drift out of F-Lot in your Mazda 5.

Hunter Kelly ‘15

You are literally the sassiest person in the entire class. We love it. You have blown us away the last year with your spectacular design, dedication and maturity.

Continue to surprise us.

Grayson Lowe ‘15

You are often too intelligent during class discussions, making all of us feel like puny morons. But you are seriously such a hard worker on and off the Leek. Thank you for joining the papes.

George Madison ‘15

With a quiet exterior, one wouldn’t guess that you secretly harbor intense opinions of super complexity.

We appreciate your thoughtfulness in creating those opinions.

Live on, you do-gooder.

John Minster ‘15

Carl Rasmussen ‘15

Hayley Rozema‘15

David’s protege, you spent half of this last year on the News page and simply rocked it with pure skill. Though your powers of procrastination will always be legendary, your work will live on longer.

You literally are too cool for school. But when you do come, the quality of your work is rad. Scott would like us to compliment you on the consistency of your blue and grey Patagonia wardrobe.

It’s hard to imagine someone more dedicated than you. Thank you for sticking with us even though you couldn’t enjoy an hour each day with us. Your work on focus pages is amazing.

Margo Hoagg ‘16

Maddi Miller ‘16

Fletcher Reyher ‘16

Matt Neumann ‘17

You’re a natural with interviewing, and excell in writing deep feature stories. On top of that, you take great photos. It’s rare to find someone with such passion for so many subjects.

Your profiles fully capture the story behind each individual. You show great dedication to this paper when needed, and you definitely aren’t afraid to showcase your silly side.

Though you haven’t been in the class very long, you’ve already been put through the ringer. A short stint on ads and other parts of the paper proved you are willing to jump right in and chase that story down.

Even though you joined us late, you have impressed us with your willingness to pitch in and ability to learn swiftly. Your ability to communicate just like a seasoned staffer will serve you well in the future.

Josie Robbins ‘17

You are a key component to every page, and one of the most flexible people on the paper. You persevere and deal with everyone. Thank you for being such a helpful staffer. You will go far!

Julia Vannatter ‘17

You joined this class as a shy freshman, but you have revealed your energetic and patient nature. You are such a talented writer. Every issue, your production has been pristine; you’re awesome.

All photos courtesy of National Geographic and A-Z Animals