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what’s inside
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Students show off their smarts at Quizbowl matches against other schools in the Region.
The debate team traveled to Dexter where students took many top placements in their first competition. Theater III students put on Comedy of Errors, a Shakespeare classic that incorporated aerial stunts to wow the crowd. Alex Karzon ‘17 talks about the challenges he has had to overcome to get to where he is now.
Twenty- four hour basketball raised money to support families who are dealing with cancer.
in brief
The Occidentalist has made a jump into the digital world, incorporating the use of Twitter and Instagram as well as our very own blog. The team has worked to make the publication available and interactive for all. Be sure to follow our social media to keep updated with what’s happening on campus as well as getting a behind the scenes look into the pub room and check out our website for additional articles and videos. An e-mail went out to parents from Principal Joe Esper asking students and parents to be careful driving around the school and to watch for pedestrians walking across the crosswalks after French teacher Madame Geroux was was hit by a car driven by a parent. Pedestrian signs with lights were also added around the school for added protection. Hats and mittens are still being collected for students who can’t afford them through Friday December 16. Also, students can donate gently used items to the Goodwill boxes outside of the library. The school receives gift cards for the filled boxes which are given to students in need. Caroling grams are now available during all three lunches in the Commons. For $2, students can hire the Bella Voce singers will serenade their friends and favorite teachers on Dec. 21. Robotics and math teacher Philip Leete will be leaving at the end of the semester to focus more of his time on his new company called, Quarkmine. This company is based around S.T.E.M (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) education. The goal of the company is to help students connect with workspace skills and employment opportunities. He has been a leader in creating the award-winning robotics program. West graduate Geoff Burns took fifth place at International Association of Ultrarunners 100k World Championship in Spain.
Contact Us Twitter: wshnewspaper Instagram: tcwoccidentalist Website: wshoccidentalist.wordpress.com
Traverse City West Senior High VOLUME XX, EDITION 2 DEC. 2016
Donald Trump speaks out at a rally in Cadillac Michigan on March 4. Photo: A. Diehl
The Nov. 8 election left the nation divided forcing the President Elect to fight for acceptance via Twitter Avery Kostrzewa ‘18 kostrzewave53@tcapsstudent.net
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divided nation with demonstrations of pride and fear defined the days following the election of Donald Trump as the country’s next president. It was a time of uncertainty for America as citizens anticipated what these next four years will hold. The weeks following Trump’s nomination were plagued with reactions to his Twitter posts while at the same time, the story of Russia’s President Vladimir Putin’s involvment in hacking emails to help sway the American voters unfolded. His actions as President Elect didn’t differ much from his behavior as a candidate, and his supporters still rallied behind him. When it came down to the final decision of who to vote for, many considered the actions of both candidates. What came to question were comments made by Trump about women, minorities, and Muslims, while Clinton tried to push through e-mail scandal that plagued her entire campaign. With so much information to wade through, many students were not sure who to vote for on election day. “I really dislike Donald Trump and the way he has talked either about women or minorities,” Lydia Wilson ‘18 said. “The e-mail scandal with Hillary was a little bit worrying but she was cleared by the FBI and the comments Donald Trump has made have been slightly more impacting because it wasn’t a simple e-mail mistake. He has personally targeted minority groups.” By the time Nov. 8 rolled around, major polls were saying that Clinton would win by a two percent lead, but the country was stunned when Trump took the podium to give his acceptance speech in what many called a major upset. In the end, Clinton won the popular vote by over two million votes. Regardless of who’s side they were on, everyone had their strong opinions. Although election forecasts predicted the win for Clinton, the school’s mock election, also held on Nov. 8, proved these statistics to be incorrect. More than 500 votes were tallied in the school, and Clinton won by only a single vote among the students polled. The mock election softened the blow and made students consider how close the election could really be if the rest of America shared their views. In the days and weeks that followed, stunned Clinton supporters did not know how to react, or who or what to blame, and many took to the streets holding signs that read “Not our president” and ”Love Trumps Hate.” Larger pro-
tests included a march from Union Square in Manhattan to Trump Tower, but Traverse City was thrust into the national media for its own local protests when an off-duty officer protested at a peaceful rally by sporting a Confederate flag. While protesters ranted about Trump’s win, others were ready to accept his place as the next President. “A majority of the United States is sick of the large political background of people who have been in politics for 30 years, just to have an outsider meant a lot,” Mitchell Laracey ‘17 said. “Donald Trump is not my favorite person either, but whether anybody likes it or not he’s our next president. I just wish people would stop debating and protesting and everyone would just come together.” Most people’s concerns come from what Trump will do after he is sworn in, as he ran his campaign on message of deportation and some policies that almost guarantee a divided nation. There is also the question of how far he will blur the lines between his children and his political career as his family has served to counsel him throughout the election, leaving some to wonder if nepotism will lead to the country being led by a small, select group of people. “Trump has talked a lot about his policy but we don’t know if he is going to go through with them,” Eli Watts ‘17 said. “They are very negative and kind of hateful. I’m really more scared about who he is electing for his cabinet and who he is surrounding himself with.” This election has been an event that will resonate with America long after President Trump has left the Oval Office. “I would like to see an America where race, gender, anything else like that doesn’t affect people,” Wilson said. “I would like to see everyone have an equal chance. I wish there was an easier path to citizenship so people could come in and there wouldn’t be an issue. I think America should be welcoming, and I just think that we should be helping to benefit all Americans.” Many people have different views on what their ideal America looks like, and for many that is Trump’s America. Under what is now a Republican controlled government, many people anticipate major changes to what they have grown accostomed to during the eight year Obama administration. All America can do is remain hopeful as they fight in their own way to bring our divided country back together.
Protecting reproductive care Change in administration threatens women’s rights
Hannah Ashbury ‘19 ashburyhan41@tcapsstudent.net
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t’s a confusing time for women of all ages, especially those who may find themselves pregnant at a time that is not conducive to their plans, their hopes, or their health. With new administration headed towards the White House, women are concerned about losing their rights to control their bodies. Since the election, President Elect Donald Trump has weighed in on one of the most controversial issues the Supreme Court has taken on: abortion. As Trump puts together his cabinet, he is committed to appointing a “pro-life” justice who wants to overturn the 1973 Roe v. Wade by returning the decision to the states. Planned Parenthood ensures full access to reproductive health care through medical services, education and advocacy, with services and programs available to all people. While some of the public focuses on their abortion services, nationwide, abortion breaks down to only three percent of the services offered there. “We work with schools, churches, community groups, parent and neighborhood groups, and directly with students of all ages, to provide comprehensive, medically accurate and ageappropriate, abstinence-plus sexuality education,” Julie McKeiver, Communications Manager of Planned Parenthood
“We don’t receive any government in Michigan said. Some worry that the funding or any financial support from organization faces budget cuts when the the government so we’re not as affected new administration takes office on Jan. as an organization that might receive 20. “If Planned Parenthood were to be funds from or be ran by the govern“defunded” we may no longer be able to ment,” she said. “I believe that because see patients who wish to pay for their we provide professional medical services services using these programs. This is in a caring non-judgmental environnearly two-thirds of our patients at the ment, and free of charge, we’re always Walker Health Center in Traverse City.” going to be needed, regardless of what Students like Willie Yarmuth ‘18 and the new administration does or doesn’t his girlfriend, Jessica Good, a junior do.” at Suttons Bay, who are expecting a Pregnancy Care Center provides free child in the spring, could benefit from services, but not abortions, so it is less the services provided through Planned likely to feel the transition to the Parenthood. new administration. “Fifteen percent “Pregnancy Care Center of our patients never charges for any services we are younger provide,” Watson said. The center than age 20 and counsels women who are pregnant 89 percent are and offers free ultrasounds to female,” McKeiver ensure good health. said. “No one is “We believe if a woman is trying turned away based to make a decision about her pregon their ability to nancy, whether she’s 14 or 44, she pay, and we have Willie Yarmuth ‘18 and his girlfriend needs to have all the information funding support their pregnancy. Photo: first so she can make an informed available for those celebreate Submitted: W. Yarmuth decision and then of course she who cannot afford needs to make that decision on her our services. Clients are charged on a own,” she said. sliding-fee scale, based on their income.” Yarmuth is counting on services to The Pregnancy Care Center has been remain to help him and his girlfriend serving both genders in the area since transition through her pregnancy. 1988. According to Executive Director “It’s important for couples to have opRhonda Watson, the organization is not tions and help because pregnancy can be facing budget cuts as the new adminisa scary thing,” he said. tration takes office.
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Opinions
THE OCCIDENTALIST
Trump supporters take on Broadway and business The Ugly Truth After Trump was named the President Elect, people took to the streets of Traverse City to protest. Among the crowd was an off-duty local police officer who flew a Confederate flag at the Open Space, and is now facing consequences. The Occidentalist staff takes a stance on his actions and the community’s response.
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n Nov. 11, two days after the election, downtown Traverse City was flooded with hundreds of people shouting “Love trumps hate” and “Not my President,” letting their voices be heard and refusing to let people silence their First Amendment rights. While the protest had a notable turnout, a few Trump supporters attended to make their voices heard as well. The local protest made national news when an off-duty police officer, Michael Peters, came to challenge the protesters by waving a Confederate flag, which led to a confrontation. Marshall Collins, a black man, approached the pickup truck where Peters sat with a freshly opened bottle of beer. An 18 year veteran with the Traverse City Police department, Peters was protesting in his own way, and defended his actions to Collins. After images of the Collins and Peters went viral on social media, the phone started ringing at the police department as community members were calling for action. At the end of Nov., President Elect Donald Trump took a strong stance on protesting with the national flag, tweeting, “Nobody should be allowed to burn the American flag — if they do, there
must be consequences — perhaps loss of citizenship or year in jail!” Many people took issue with this, claiming that citizens have the right to burn the flag in protest. So how are Peters’ actions different than any other citizen who burns the American flag in protest? While Peters is guaranteed his First Amednment right to freedom of speech, waving a Confederate flag may contradict what his job requires. As a staff, we believe that Peters’s actions were not appropriate. Even while he is off duty, he still needs to represent the police force and all that they protect. The Confederate flag has long been a symbol of racial division, for the Confederate States of America who fought to keep slavery legal in the Civil War. Even though they lost that battle, the Confederate Flag is often seen as a harsh statement that is directed towards the African American community, the people he should be protecting. As a staff, we believe that nobody, especially those who should protect all people, should spread the negativity that the Confederate flag holds. We maintain our stance that Peters’ actions were inappropriate, and we respect that the local police force supported his resignation.
Last edition Jared and Megan argued over Third Party voting, According to student polls Megan gets to drop the mic.
Megan by 55.6%
Who gets to drop the mic when it comes to the Electoral College? Jared or Megan? Tell us what you think at:
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We will post the results in our next edition
OCCIDENTALIST
Cartoonist: Emily Falconer
Drop the
Jared Kraft ‘17
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“We should, because it was created as a compromise which gives small states an unfair advantage.”
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he popular vote doesn’t count when it comes to electing the next President for the United States of America. In 1845, the US population was 19.7 million people, today the population is 318.86 million. At the start of the Electoral College, it may have made sense to run a system that grants certain states with higher populations more votes, which then, decides which candidate becomes the next president of the United States. Yet, this past election marks the second time a potential president of the United States of America has won the popular vote, but lost the election due to the process of the Electoral College. This is not an issue I am taking a stand on simply because the candidate I agreed with lost, but instead because I have never believed the Electoral College process to accurately represent the numerous citizens of the United States. This past election is not only a show of how the system can work against us, but should also encourage everyone to challenge the systems in our government and push to create better and more efficient processes to avoid this type of situation in future years.
What’s your opinion:
Jessica Freeman Katie Rundio
Copy Editors:
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fter the surprise of Donald Trump winning the position of President Elect through winning the Electoral College vote but not the popular vote, the debate of whether or not we should keep the Electoral College is brought into the limelight. The Electoral College should remain the way it is.The Electoral College enforces the concept of Federalism, which is the division of sharing powers between state and national governments. If we didn’t have the Electoral College and we based the election off the population, three states would have roughly 25% of the vote, giving these three states too much power. With accusations of voter fraud, recounts founded by Jill Stein took place in Wisconsin, Michigan, and Pennsylvania. All this recount has done is put less faith in the United States Government, a system that is already under scrutiny, and threatens to put the votes of said states at risk if the recount doesn’t end by the deadline of Dec. 13. If you want to amend the Constitution and get rid of the Electoral College bring it up with the democratically elected Republican Congress.
Should we get rid of the Electoral College?
“No because the Electoral College represents the needs of multiple regions. ”
- Ruth Lynch ‘20
Graphics:
Megan Gronek ‘17 gronekmeg39@tcapsstudent.net
kraftjar94@tcapsstudent.net
Editors:
Annaka Hansen
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It was a tight election year, with one candidate winning the popular vote and the other taking the Electoral College. Megan Gronek ‘17 and Jared Kraft ‘17 take on the topic of whether we should get rid of the Electoral College.
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- Steven Weller ‘18
he Occidentalist is the official student produced newspaper of news and information published/ produced by WSH newspaper students. The Occidentalist newspaper has been established as a designated public forum for student editors and reporters to inform and educate their readers. As well, it will not be priorreviewed or restrained by school officials prior to publication or distribution. Advisors may and should coach
Annaka Hansen Alexis Hepler Natalie Heymes Garrett Hill Avery Kostzewa Billy Jo Kyser Madison Raymond Alex Rogers Michaela Rogers Quentin Ross
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“Yes we should, it is an extremely outdated concept.” - Jeremy Gauden ‘19
and discuss content during the writing process. Because school officials do not engage in prior-review, and the content of the Occidentalist media is determined and reflects only the views of the student staff and not school officials or the school itself, its student editorial board and responsible student staff members assume complete legal and financial liability for the content of the publication.
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School news 3
THE OCCIDENTALIST
Small but mighty clubs
So many clubs, so little time -there’s no shortage on ways to share interests and get involved in school. Spencer Elhart ‘18
elhartspe12@tcapsstudent.net
PB & J
PB ‘n J club, or Pray, Believe in Jesus, is a club where students can talk openly about their belief in Jesus without fear of scrutiny. “Usually we read the Bible, talk about God, and pray,” Kailey Mikowski ’18 said. The club meets Mondays and Fridays before school at 7:30 in the morning in A101. Students interested in joining can see Mrs. Prisk.
Ukulele
Two West Quiz Bowl teams compete against each other at the Interlochen Arts Academy. Photo: A. Hansen
Students show their smarts
Students join Quiz Bowl to show off their knowledge while competing against other teams and schools
Annaka Hansen ‘19
hansenann37@tcapsstudent.net
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ost students find themselves watching the clock, waiting for 3:07 to arrive so they can go home and socialize with friends before they hit the books again. On Wednesdays after school, however, a small group of students head to Quiz Bowl matches where they can show off their knowledge. While Quiz Bowl may seem a particularly challenging extracurricular that requires an enormous amount of brain power, Quiz Bowl advisor Dan Rosenburg says that students shouldn’t be apprehensive about joining. His teams are looking for people who specialize in one or two areas, so players aren’t required to know everything. “Ideally, when you put a team together, you would have four people that have different strengths,” he said. “For example, you might have one person that’s really good at math or science, another that knows about history, and another that knows about English or literature. You don’t have to know all of them, but maybe you have an area that you specialize in and you’re sort of the strength of the team for that particular question. There’s a place for a lots of different interest areas.” This is Jessica Litchfield’s ‘19, second year on the team, and she had good reason for joining again this year. For her, it’s not only fun, but
also educational. “I originally joined Quiz Bowl because a friend of mine told me I should,” Litchfield said. “I’m really glad I did, though, because since then, I’ve learned tons of random, interesting facts about history, art, and literature.” It takes more than just smarts to be on the Quiz Bowl team. There is a competitive side to this academic sport, and as Litchfield competes against other schools, her competitive side creeps out at tournaments. “I’m a really competitive person and I love winning,” she said. “But I’ve also become friends with a few people from other teams, like the captain of the Gaylord team.” She brings her own strengths to the competition to support her teammates, too. “Sometimes, there are a lot of history and geography questions, but I answer mostly science and literature ones,” Litchfield said. “But all together, I think our team is really strong and we win a good number of games at every match.” In the end though, Quiz Bowl is meant to bring students together and to encourage them to enjoy learning. “I wanted the kids to compete and have fun, and I think we’ve done that,” Rosenburg said.
To see a video of quiz bowl go to www.wshoccidentalist.wordpress.com
There’s an app for that
Here are a few of the MUST HAVES for your phone to stay connected to learning outside of the classroom
Duolingo is an app and website that allows users to learn various types of languages like Spanish, French, German, Dutch and more.
Kahoot is an online program where students can create and play trivia games to help study or just have fun. Many teachers use this app to help students study in a fun and exciting way.
Powerschool is a site and app where students and parents can keep up on their grades, attendance and assignments in every class.
Quizlet is a study source that can get students ready for any test. Teachers and students can create study materials including digital flash cards, practice tests, games and more.
Ukulele club is for people who play the instrument or wish to learn. The club meets on Wednesdays in A116 but will change to Tuesdays after bowling season starts. “We usually sit around and play the ukulele,” Jay Tinsley ’17 said. “Sometimes we learn songs together or share songs we wrote.” Students interested in joining can contact art teacher Melissa Clone.
Languages
French club meets in Madame Jen Gerouex’s room in A209 on Wednesdays. “We watch movies and listen to French music. We recreate French Art and eat snacks,” Bella Gross ’17 said. Spanish club meets once a month, usually on Thursdays after school in Senor Ranke’s room in C216. “The first couple meetings we did cultural stuff and in the next we’ll hopefully make a Picasso mural,” Ranke said. Chinese club is a new club bringing together students from China that are eager to interact with each other and learn the culture and language. They meet Tuesday’s and Friday’s from 7:20 to 8 am in C102.
Random Acts of Art & Celebration Nation
Random Acts of Art is a club where artistic students can create pieces that inspire and heal others. Celebration Nation is a club where students celebrate holidays from around the world to enrich students’ appreciation of other cultures. Before the holiday break the two groups combined forces and traveled to Bay Ridge Assisted Living Center to create handmade ornaments with a group of residents living there. The Random Acts of Art Club meets Mondays after school in A104. Celebration Nation meets Wednesdays after school. Students that are interested can contact Mrs. Heydlauff
This site produces short lectures in video form. The website also includes supplementary practice exercises and tools for educators. Students and teachers can track their grades and learning.
Edmodo provides many features. Teachers can quickly create groups, assign homework, schedule quizzes, manage progress, and more. With everything on one platform, Edmodo is designed to give students complete control over the digital classroom.
Zoe Meiering works with a resident at Bay Ridge Assisted Living to create a holiday ornament. Photo: J. Keck
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news
THE OCCIDENTALIST
Season of Giving Natalie Heymes ’19
heymesnat92@tcapsstudent.net
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n Christmas morning kids wake with excitement to find presents under the tree, but unfortunately, not all kids get to experience this kind of joy. Sophomores Chloe Vomastek and Miranda Green wanted to change that. “A bunch of us wake up on Christmas and we’re able to get gifts, but for these orphans and the less fortunate, [receiving gifts from Operation Christmas Child] just really helps them out,” Vomastek said. Operation Christmas Child provides a way for people to give back to kids at any destination around the world. Vomastek and Green went from churches to coffee shops to find the boxes to bring to their Service Advisory class where they asked classmates to fill them with toys, school supplies, and other needed items. After the boxes were filled, Vomastek took 25 of them to be shipped overseas to children in need, mostly in Africa. Key Club also donated 13 boxes, and Mrs. Prisk and Mrs. Dakoske’s combined Gifts for Love Advisories also sent 50 boxes for children in need. The program allows tracking options for the box so senders can follow where it travels and know when it arrives. “With Samaritan’s Purse, you know that a child is going to get this and it will make someone’s year,” Vomastek said. She and Green participated in the program through their church and wanted to extend it to their
school. To get students involved, Vomastek showed a video of children in Africa opening their boxes to her Service Advisory class. “The purpose of the Service Advisory class is to get students serving their community, both locally and globally,” Advisory teacher Catherine Hansen said. “Chloe sets the bar high when teaching others to give. When she asked to do the project she had 100 percent buy-in from the start. I was really proud of the students’ participation in this project.”
Who’s got heart?
Music Department did an annual sock drive for the STEP Program. Choir classes did a penny drive to support Toys for Tots. Matt Dumon’s Advisory Class worked to gather 400 cans of food for the Titan Food Pantry. Key Club rang bells for Salvation Army. The Gay Straight Alliance collected children’s books, crayons, paper, and hand-sewn bags for Power Book Bags to promote literacy in the area. The band program held a school-wide food/ supplies drive for Traverse City High School. Football program will be doing our 9th annual Christmas Toy Blitz for families/children in need during the holiday season.
Learning Outside World in the
Learning through running a business The Business and Marketing course is designed to help create entrepreneurial thinkers who have the skills and tools to start their own business. Business and Marketing teacher Lori Dakoske encourages her students to learn through experience, and they have started their own business to help them acquire skills in entrepreneurship, functions of marketing, selling, and writing a business plan. They work with community volunteers who act as mentors through the Junior Achievement Company Program. This semester students decided to create a T-shirt design that highlights popular attractions and activities in the area. Cherry Capital Apparel is selling the shirts in the community and are donating $1 for every T-shirt sold to the TART Trail. “Students are learning by being part of one of the departments, including Finance, Human Resources, Public Relations, Production, Promotion and Sales,” Dakoske said. They learn how important communication is between all departments.” Dakoske said that all students are required to sell the product but are also earning a paycheck for their work. Students in Dakoske’s class came up with the product idea, designed the product, priced it out, and are promoting and selling the T-shirts. “Students are also learning responsibility, teamwork, problem solving, communication and leadership skills,” Dakoske said. “In addition, part of the learning process would also be understanding the different types of careers that a business may have in order to keep running. Hopefully, students start to figure out which areas they enjoy and fit their strengths. “We are learning skills to start a business,” Jimmy Bottorff ‘18 said. “For example, when you start a business you are going to have competitors and you have to win over customers.” Bottorff hopes to start his own gym one day, and has learned the first steps he needs to take when he is ready to move ahead in the business world. “Learning about the processes of starting and running a business is one thing, but actually applying that knowledge is so important in order for the students to fully understand what it takes to start and run a business. Our students are the next entrepreneurs who will create new products/ services to benefit society which leads to jobs and economic growth.
Classes that take learning outside the classroom benefit student learning
Students at the debate competition at Dexter pose with their trophies. Photo: C. Rennie
First Year Back
With some Model UN experience behind them, a small debate team takes a big win at Dexter
Nathan Freeman ‘19
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freemannat99@tcapsstudent.net
n mid-November, the new debate team started on the right foot, taking many top placements at their second competition. Coached by Civics and Model United Nations teacher Charles Rennie, the team traveled to Dexter to argue about the benefits of the Internet and how they outweigh the harm that leads to decreased personal privacy. The competition was fierce, with 38 teams in all fighting for top placements. Going in with confidence, Hannah Ellery ‘17 and Aage Grenchik ‘19 took first place, while John Urquhart ‘17 and Grace Martin ‘18 placed second. In the individual debate, Ellery placed first, Grenchik placed second, Martin placed fifth, and Urquhart placed sixth. After the opening statement for each side of the argument, team members jumped right in for the crossfire between their opponents as they argued by giving evidence and
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Nations team. His teams have won Best Prepared School for 11 years in a row, along with numerous delegation and individual awards. According to Rennie, the experience his students get through debates at Model United Nation competitions definitely helped them when they headed to their competition in Dexter. “Debate and Model UN are definitely complimentary,” he said. His students agreed. “Both Model UN an debate have taught me to use critical thinking strategies and ask the important question,” Urquhart said. For a new team, the debators are off to a good start. They will apply their skills from Model UN to debates, and the debate students will apply their skills at MidAmerican Model United Nations Conference in the spring to defend their title. “I am proud of what the kids on the debate team have done to get into the position they are in, and I think that they will do great at States in December.”
Singing Signs
Kaleb Carlson ‘19 carlsonkal87@tcapsstudent.net
hat students do inside the school prepares them for the outside world. Whether the class is Spanish, Band, Government or even Gym, teachers are finding ways to bring the real world into their classrooms to help students prepare for their futures. Government teacher Tak Ready requires his students to do civic participation by attending local meetings like those held at the Board of Education, or students can meet with city commissioners to discuss local concerns. Gym teachers are asking their students to practice what they have learned by refereeing at local sporting events. Music teachers Rachel Linsmeier and Ann Marie Jones help their students perform in the public at local wineries and businesses. Art teacher Melissa Clone’s Applied Visual Arts class makes the weekly video announcements shown in Advisory every Wednesday. Her class is run like a business where her students are hired by teachers and school staff to create fliers, posters, playbills, logos, and documentaries of events at the school. Students are the creators who are responsible for the work they produce for the community. “You have to problem solve yourself,” Cecilia Kurkowski ‘17 said about the class that runs more like a business. Spanish teacher Catherine Hansen uses Facebook and Google Docs to enhance her students’ learning and move it beyond the classroom. Her students communicate through videos and shared Google documents with students in Mexico who are learning English. “I’ve noticed that my students are more engaged because they’re more invested,” Hansen said. “When we can put learning out into the real world it makes it more meaningful to kids.” The true purpose of learning in high school is to teach life skills that prepare students for their futures. Textbook learning and packets don’t do that, and many teachers are restructuring their teaching styles to take students’ learning into the real world where they can make connections and find purpose in their learning. What students do in class isn’t only about good grades and passing. Classes are also about practicing life skills in and outside of school in order to prepare for college and jobs.
rebuttals. The debate team is new, and therefore, only have a few debaters who can compete, and the team isn’t just about winning awards. Students learn valuable skills that they can apply to any experience both in and out of school. “It truly helps you with people skills, preparing for an argument, and listening to try to pull some evidence onto your side of the argument in the amount of the time that you have while also dealing with things outside of the class,” Rennie said. Some of his students agreed. “It is advantageous to be able to act quickly and think on your feet,” Grenchik said. Since this is the first year in many that the school has supported a debate team, there were some challenges for the team members. “For me, the most challenging thing is that I went into the team blind, not knowing what to do, but it was fun,” Martin said. All of the debaters brought experience from working with Rennie on the Model United
Graphic: Q. Ross
American Sign Language students learn sign by song Abbie Bregy ‘20 bregyabi54@tcapsstudent.net
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glance into American Sign Language teacher, Jennifer Campbell’s class on a Friday may raise some questions while students are singing without music or voices. Every Friday in Campbell’s ASL classes, the students practice communicating with their hands by learning a new song. Students are enjoying the fun pace of the class, even though it is very quiet. “Fridays are upbeat and hype,” Jayna Emery ‘20 said. Not only is learning to communicate through songs a fun activity, but the students actually learn from it and apply what they have learned to other ways of communicating. “We get to experience new signs we can later use in our conversations and it’s a much easier way of remembering the signs,” Taylor Payton ‘20 said. This is Campbell’s second year teaching ASL at West. She was brought in to support the growing World Language department as ASL counts toward the required two world
language credits. “[Learning signs through songs] gives the students an opportunity to learn and review signs, so I would say it’s helping them apply sign language to the real world,” she said. “I think it definitely helps the students remember it better than just doing a worksheet or a classroom assignment, like on the first day we did ‘Don’t Stop Believing’ and kids still come in signing parts of the song.” When the idea of learning to sign songs first came up many students did not understand how it would work because they cannot hear the music. Campbell helped her students realize that people in the deaf and hard of hearing community can feel and see the music. Though this sounds impossible, there are many signs to translate the beat and rhythm of music to the deaf and hard of hearing community. Friday song days have come to be a popular day in Campbell’s room. “Learning the songs are so fun, I wish we could learn one every day,” Kelsey Matteson ‘20 said..
Local news
THE OCCIDENTALIST
5
Denny’s for Dinner The increasingly popular Denny’s is open for business and drawing in students all day and night
Librarian Genevieve Minor works with Kristi Jackowski from the Traverse City Area District Library to assign all students library cards through their English classes. Photo: A. Hansen
Opening Doors to Learing
Students are issued public library cards in their English classes Autumn Bockhol ‘20 bockholaut88@tcapsstudent.net
T
he library has helped open the minds of our students by giving them access to more books. This year, librarian Genevieve Minor worked with members of the Traverse City Area District Library to make sure every student had a library card. Over a period of seven weeks, she and a librarian from the public library met with every student in their English Language Arts class to give students more access and support their learning. Minor took an old idea, changed things up a bit, and started to make things happen for students. “The idea isn’t new,” Minor said. “Fourth grade students get a TADL library card. I got the idea from what was already happening. The difference is that those students have a parent or guardian to give them permission to get a card. At the time, anyone under 18 needed parent permission. I didn’t think this model would work with high school students. I think they are responsible enough to use the library without parent permission. So we worked it out where high school students could get a card in absence of parent permission.” While Minor has worked long and hard to make the most of her limited budget to keep the library fully stocked, it has become more and more challenging. To fill in where her budget has fallen short, she has hosted a school-wide Box Top collection and held used book sales to earn money for student needs. “I wanted students to be life-long library users,” Minor said. “I also want to provide students with resources that I cannot get through my limited budget.” The partnership between the school and members of the public library took some time to develop, though. Committed to her students, Minor put in a lot of time to make this happen. It took two years of collaboration between TCAPS and the Traverse Area District Library to make the library card deal, which included meeting with lawyers and members of the library board. Minor also envisioned how the library cards could give students more access to not only their learning, but how they interact with the world. “Students can access Mango, which helps with foreign languages, so anyone who wants to participate in foreign language through the school year can open the app and get extra help,” Minor said. “The cards also open academic databases to students that can be used through the public library. Also, libraries have more to access. They have community events, information on voting and taxes. This is a big deal. There are ebooks, audiobooks, periodicals, movies, television shows, music, video games, DVDs and more. You can check out a telescope, a guitar, even a ukulele all for free.” After several weeks of distributing the library cards in English classes, students are looking forward to putting them to good use. “I plan on using my library card for many great reasons, such as school projects, studying, etc,” Thor Soffredine ‘17 said. “I also think that using my library card might have a good influence on my grades and learning skills.”
Jade Wilson ‘18 wilsonjad19@tcapsstudent.net
The new Denny’s located at 878 Munson Ave, Traverse City, MI is a growingly popular, twenty four hour hot spot for all people to eat at any time. Photo: A. Hansen
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he popular eatery, Denny’s has had a long history since 1953, but its new opening on Munson Avenue makes it something new to Traverse City. Traverse City is a considered a “foodie destination” for its excellent farm-to-table cuisine, and has even been named one of five top foodie towns in America by Bon Appetite magazine. Likewise, the list of popular chain restaurants throughout the area keeps growing, and Denny’s just added its name to that list. With affordable food and 24 hour service, students are
excited to sit in to study, eat, and have a place to meet after late night dances and football games. “I’m really excited about Denny’s opening,” Isaac Flores ‘17 said. “I think it’s a great opportunity for kids my age to get a new job if they need one. Also, it’s great that we now have a 24 hour restaurant that serves both breakfast and lunch anytime, and a great study location.” While the new location may be on the wrong side of town for some, Career Tech Center students like that it is so close to their building. Some have even made it a regular stop either before or after classes there. “I go to Denny’s very frequently at lunchtime because I go to The Career Tech Center, which is about two minutes away from Denny’s,” Flores said. “The only part I don’t like about Denny’s is how busy they always are. I hope eventually that will go away.” The local area is filled with high-end eateries, and many students are happy to have 24 hour service where they can get affordable and delicious food while hanging out.
x FASHIoN
Ugly Is the New Trendy? Ugly Christmas sweaters have officially become a trend. Whether they light up, have outdated holiday logos, or make sound, the new trend is knitted ugly holiday sweaters. Here are five ugly sweaters for every budget. If you can past the 3D nose on the snowman, this sweater is on trend by including fuzzy puffs and polka-dots. (Rue 21 $24.99)
Despite the cheesy display of the light-up Santa, this sweater showcases trendy stripes on the sleeves. Sweaters with lights, bells, and sounds seem to be the trend this year. (Macy’s $19.99)
Remember that your smile never goes out of style. -XO Camryn Calderwood
This sweater may seem like just another bad, ugly Christmas sweater, but with the addition of a Peter Pan collar, it gives off a girly vibe. (Francesca’s $44)
Aside from the bad gingerbread cookie joke, high-end brands such as Moschino and Michael Kors agree that graphics are in style. (Target $27.99) Although the dancing reindeer are unmistakable, this sweater is flattering due to the much needed mock collar. For some of the best “ugly sweaters”, it is always OK to check out the resale shops. (Goodwill $6.99)
Ugly sweater days are upon us. Post your photo wearing your best ugly sweater. The staff will vote to pick the best (worst) sweater and the winner will receive a prize. Post to Instagram and tag us @tcwoccidentalist using #TCWUglySweater for a chance to win.
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Arts and Entertainment
Comedy of AIR orrs Hannah Creamer ’19
creamerhan50@tcapsstudent.net
T
he Theater III class production took on a bold new territory by performing Shakespeare, whilst adding their own original flare by setting the scene in a circus. Adding to the circus twist, the class decided to throw in some acrobatics to the mix too. “I have loved the exciting, colorful vibe of the circus since the time I went to one when I was little,” Elisa Quigley ‘18 said. “I was stoked from the moment I heard we would be doing the show in a circus.” The Comedy of Errors is about two sets of twins who
were separated at birth. It ends up causing mischief when their families encounter one another, leading to a serious case of mistaken identity. To bring the show to life, the actors got professional help from Lilya Burden ‘17 who coached them in aerial stunts at Water’s Edge Gymnastics. She coordinated stunts and helped to make sure the students were properly trained for the show. “I took classes for the whole summer with our aerial coach Liliya Burden, but Photo Above: Darion Matthews ’17 and Shelby Mitchell ’17 preform aerial stunts during The Comedy of Errors show. most of the cast only Cut Out: Liliya Burden ’17 relaxes on a lira during an aerial stunt in had a few weeks of practice,” Quigley said. “Our student was in the air and fell It took months for the performers to to the ground,” Theater director Minda get up the physical strength to work Nyquist said. “The apparatus [the silk] on the lira, also known as an aerial that was attached, just split and broke.” hoop. The mistake came as a shock to the “Physically, the most difcast, as they had been extremely cauficult thing was definitely the tious with using the equipment after aerial gymnastics. It took their professional training. They learned months of classes and worksome things from the mishap that will ing out to feel like what I was shape future shows. doing was easy,” Quigley said. “The safety precautions for the All the hard work was worth future is to double check, and triple it, but on the last show, students check the safety harnesses that are used heard a snap, and realized one of for every show and even during the their friends was no longer in the air, show to make sure they’re not getting but on the stage. overused or worn out,” Nyquist said.
Vying for the T
Cat Vaught’18
vaughtcat61@tcapsstudent.net
OGREatest
position
Music students awaited the new of the choice for the Spring musical, then competed for the top spot of the big, green, monster in Shrek
Music teacher Erick Wangeman and Spanish teacher and Director Eric Ranke list to a student perform in the music wing during casting week for Shrek. Photo: A. Hansen ’16
he tension in the music wing was palpable as nerves set in around the beginning of November as students began auditioning for positions in this year’s spring musical, Shrek. Only the strong willed can handle the pressure as they commit to nightly rehearsals meant for memorizing dance moves, song lyrics and scripts. The one thing that has most music students on edge is the dreaded list. Around 100 students gather in the choir wing every year to audition for the spring musical put on by the Choir Director Erick Wangemen, Spanish teacher Eric Ranke, Theater Director Minda Nyquist, and Musical Director Erin Peck. Unlike other years, Wangeman did not announce the musical at the October Fall Choir concert. There was a debate between a few musicals at the time the concert rolled around and after the musical was chosen, Wangeman had to wait for the rights to put on the show. Once the process was over, the spring musical was announced. “I genuinely love the show, and think there’s a lot of opportunity for small parts, and will be popular
enough to spark the interest of the general public” Lydia Ragel Wilson ‘18’ said. Wilson got three callbacks for Shrek, she ended up getting the role of the Fairy Tale creature, The Wicked Witch. “I think I did pretty good, honestly,” Wilson said. “I stepped out of my comfort zone and in doing so, managed to showcase my voice better. I was so honored to receive callbacks, something that’s never happened before, so no matter what the result was, I’m proud that I was even considered for parts.” Shrek being a popular and adored musical, students were vying to play the role of their favorite character. “I think Pinocchio will be the role more people want because it is so fun and loud,” Grace Clark ‘19 said. “I was hoping for a small part in the chorus or possibly ensemble.” Clark will perform in the chorus along with some of her other friends. Pinocchio, a smaller ensemble role, was assigned to Nathan Crow ‘18. It’s hard to imagine that such a bigname show won’t sell out performances, but Wilson and other performers want to get everyone buying tickets. “Everyone make sure you come see it, it’s gonna be fantastic and the music program would really appreciate all the support it can get,” Ragel said.
S and J’s Media Madness
Pokemon Sun and Moon Pokemon Sun and Pokemon Moon are the newest addition to Nintendo’s franchise. While the name Pokemon has been around for a while, students are jumping into a newer take on something old. In my personal opinion, the game was excellent and was probably my favorite addition to the games, barely beating Pokemon Emerald. The new region this game is based
MUSIC review Kendall Wisniewski ’18
Wisniewsken47@tcapsstudent.net
As the new year draws closer and the impending doom of winter looms over our heads, we could all use something to remind us that summer really will eventually come again. With a sound that epitomizes summer and a look to match, Beach Weather may just fit the bill. Formed in 2015, the band got their start as the opening act for The Maine during their Free For All tour that took place over the summer of the same year. As a fan of the Maine and a skeptic when it comes to opening acts, I didn’t go into the show with very high expectations for Beach Weather. However, within less than 30 seconds, I was enamored with their music, a style I can only really describe as “beachy”, (pun intended). In early November 2016, Beach Weather released their second EP entitled Chit Chat. The EP features six songs, all of which fit in with the easygoing, summer sound expected from the band. However, Chit Chat is much less guitar driven than their debut, What a Drag, and takes on a much lighter, pop-influenced sound than expected. With sparkling keyboards and catchy melodies, the EP almost has a retro sound, coming off as much more produced than their prior release. While I enjoy all of the songs on the EP, the title track, Chit Chat, reigns supreme. The mix of the simple and catchy melody with a solid bassline makes it nearly impossible to be sad while listening to it. All in all, I’d recommend Beach Weather to fans of bands like The Maine and The Wombats. Just keep in mind that if you’re going to check out Beach Weather, you may want to start with their first EP rather than their newest release.
Binge
worthy TV shows Katie Rundio ’18
rundiokat33@tcapsstudent.net
With Netflix and Hulu, it’s easy to find older but great television shows that require watching an entire season in one weekend. When I first found Brooklyn Nine-Nine in 2015, I was excited for a fresh, light-hearted take on the cliche police show. I was addicted the minute I started. The show follows Detective Jake Peralta, a rebellious and childish cop who works in New York City alongside other weird, dysfunctional police officers. The show incorporates a ton of diverse characters, both in personality and appearance, which is refreshing. No matter who you are, you’re sure to find at least one character you love, though it’d be pretty hard not to fall in love with the whole station. Unlike other shows based on the police force, Brooklyn Nine-Nine turned away from overly dramatic plot twists, instead choosing to follow a simple, easy-to-follow plot. The show goes as far as to mock other cop shows, making fun of the cliche, dramatic plots of its genre. The show is similar to hits like Parks and Recreation or The Office, with simple humor, basic plots, and an emphasis on character development. With a ton of dynamic characters, hilarious episodes, and crowd pleasing humor, Brooklyn Nine-Nine is a must see show. To catch up, all three complete seasons can be streamed on Hulu and you can watch the fourth season Tuesday nights at eight on Fox.
Spencer Elhart ‘18
elhartspe12@tcapsstudent.net
on is called Alola, which resembles Hawaii in its geographical structure. The Pokemon introduced in this new generation are amazing. Nintendo even updated some fan-favorites and made them have new types known as Alolan Pokemon, they are interesting and well thought out. This game was attention grabbing, beautifully established, and has one of the best soundtracks in the history of Poke-
Fantastic Beasts & Where to Find Them Decades before Harry became the boy who lived, Newt became the man who set the beasts free. While trying to return one monster to its home in the U.S., magizooligist, Newt Scamander (Eddie Redmayne, supposedly J.K. Rowling’s only choice for the lead) let his magical, Mary Poppins-like, briefcase out of his sight for only a moment. That was enough time to
THE OCCIDENTALIST
send all of New York into total chaos, and draws a little bit too much negative attention from the Magical Congress of the United States. Newt faces the threat of the most dangerous and mysterious entity he has ever seen. Much like Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, FB&WTFT introduces Ilvermorny, the only wizarding school in America. The cast gave a magical performance
mon. Nintendo cleverly made the soundtrack reminiscent of the outlay of the land by adding instruments usually identified with Hawaiian culture. The music is both soft and serious, calming and energetic. The newest additions to the starter trio are magnificent, consisting of the water-type Popplio, the fire-type Litten, and the grass-type Rowlet. Overall, I think new players will love it.
Spencer Elhart ’18
elhartspe12@tcapsstudent.net
Johnny Urquhart’17 urquhartjoh67@tcapsstudent.net
as they now have a 7.8 star rating on Metacritic and grossed a total $680 million worldwide in the box office. The new movie also came with the release of it’s screen play . This is a must see for the entire family. With a running time of two hours and 13 minutes, it will keep viewers on the edge of their seats all the way to a surprise twist at the end.
Watch videos of holiday music performances at wshoccidentalist.wordpress.com
THE OCCIDENTALIST
features
From small to BIG Michaela Rodgers `18
rodgersmi32@tcapsstudent.net
A
dapting to being a big fish in an even bigger pond is very familiar to Alex Karzon 18’. He moved from a school with fewer than 500 students to one holding around 1,600. Over the years, Karzon has been home schooled twice and has moved to four different schools before coming to West. His transition has been smoother than he expected. “It was a little overwhelming at first but, you know, people are very friendly and welcoming so that helps,” he said. “Once you get into a routine you get use to it so it’s not as overwhelming. Overall, it’s been a good transition.” Coming from a small school Alex has had some struggles adapting to the busy hallways and getting around Alex was born three months early and due to some bleeding on the brain, has cerebral palsy which affects him physically by causing muscle spasms in his legs.
“The way that my muscles work is that one set of muscles are always contracting and tightening whereas the other set is just weaker and can not counteract as well,” Karzon said. “So my hamstrings are constantly going off and my quads are just not that strong.” Walking can be a challenge for him, but it’s not his physical disability that makes it hard to get around, but the size of the school that can overwhelm him. “Finding my way around the building has personally been a struggle,” he said. Karzon’s condition may have impaired his muscle coordination, but it hasn’t stopped him from achieving his dreams. He worked with his football team at his former school, Pike’s Peak Christian in Colorado, during his freshman year. I didn’t do a whole lot per se, because I always had the intention of playing so I was trying to prepare to play,” Karzon said. At the school’s Homecoming game he was put on the field to play with this team.
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Alex Karzon doesn’t let his disability keep him from his dreams. With a family of nine to support him, he heads toward his goals
“I want to play football, [it] is my passion. That’s what I love, and I wanted to see if I could get into some coaching,” Karzon said. Over the years Karzon has had multiple surgeries, including on his femurs to help release tension to allow him extra range in motion. This helps him to straighten his legs with greater ease. Karzon is the oldest of nine siblings and while he grew up in Colorado his father used to live in Michigan. After his family grew tired of the city life in Colorado, they moved back to Michigan in the fall. “My dad always talked about how he missed the water and he missed the trees and he just missed so many little things,” Karson said. He adjustment to his new school, new friends, and new environment has been smooth. He says he likes living in Michigan more than Colorado because of all the land he has at his new home. “It’s really nice because we have campfires and all kinds of shooting rings, so it’s just going to be a new experience for me that’s going to be different.”
Alex Karzon `18 stands by his coach at his football debut at Pike’s Peak Christian School in Colorado. Photo: Submitted A. Karzon
She’s the One New club puts the focus on girls
Alexis Hepler `19
A
heplerale12@tcapsstudent.net
Hannah Carson `17 and Kaylin Petterson `17 from Student Senate put together a sign to hang over the balcony to inform everyone about the Thank You cards fir the TCW staff.
Thanking TEACHERS
Maddison Raymond `17 raymondma98@tcapsstudent.net
Student Senate asks students to give thanks to their teachers before the Thanksgiving break
in Ross `19 Graphic: Quent dent.net stu ps ca @t 67 ue rossq
“There was probably one letter for every teacher, so close to 200 letters,” Carson said. “It was a great turn-out. Most teachers were really excited about it, and it was exciting to give it to them. It felt good from both ends.” Spanish teacher Eric Ranke received serveral letters from students before the break. “I saved them along with other notes I’ve gotten in past years,” he said. “I was very touched that so many students had thought of me. It makes all of the time and energy I put into my class worth it. I am thankful for all of my awesome students who make it fun for me to come to work every day!
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and janitors and everyone, deserved more of a thanks from the students,” Senate member Hannah Carson, ‘17 said. “I mean, we’re getting an education from them and sometimes we felt like it’s easy to take what they do for granted.” Teachers and the other staff are partly responsible for creating upcoming generation; what they teach will help shape students into who they are and how they will later fit into society. Some students may dislike school, but with the help of some staff and their classes most will be successful later in life. Students lined up at all three lunches to write a simple note to show their appreciation.
F E AT
S
ometimes it seems the essence of Thanksgiving is lost in the prospect of big dinners, no school, and a long weekend with family members. The week before Thanksgiving, Student Senate decided that, in the spirit of the holiday, they would offer students the opportunity to thank teachers who may have inspired them during their time in school. Senate members set up outside of the main office and provided paper and markers for students to let their favorite teachers know how they have inspired them. “My partner and I figured the staff here, not just teachers, but lunch-ladies
t a time when American women are still fighting for their own equality and equal pay, Ashley Bixby ‘17 and Biology teacher Kate Heydlauff are doing their best to guarantee young girls have equal access to schooling and bright futures. Together they are running the She’s the First club, which focuses on guaranteeing equality for girls through a quality education. “The purpose of the She’s the First is to raise awareness about the lack of education in developing countries,” Bixby said. “I have always been interested in learning about how I could possibly better the lives of people all the way across the world, so when I heard about She’s the First, I needed to figure out how to get this started at West.” The She’s the First club puts time into fund-raisers to support girls and women around the world. “Last year we helped out a girl named Winnie who lived in Uganda to go to school for a year,” Bixby said. “We also focus on fund raisers we can do in order to raise money to
actually send to them. Heydlauff knows that fund-raising is not always the most romantic way to support a girl’s chances, but it is an essential one. “The whole purpose is to raise money, and at times, this can be difficult.” Heydlauff said, “We do lots of bake sales and can drives.” The money raised by club members not only supports one girl in Uganda, but so much more. She’s the First gives girls an opportunity for education and they provide scholarships in poor countries. It provides mentorship to help out the girls one on one. She’s the First started in 2009 with the goal of informing people around the world about the issues girls face on a day to day basis. Bixby is helping students take this message outside the school. “I love being able to help someone all the way across the world right here at home,” she said. Heydlauff agreed. “I love that high schoolers are willing to take the time to raise money for girls in developing nations,” she said, “It is so important to have global awareness and these girls are so amazing at supporting education for these girls.” Anyone interested in helping the She’s the One club or joining should contact Mrs. Heydlauff in B104.
Rachel Kreta
Jessica Freeman `17
freemanjes66@tcapsstudent.net
W
hen thinking of art, two-dimensional drawings and paintings are a common form for most artists. However, different materials can be used to go deeper than just drawing in two-dimension. In Advanced Placement Studio Art, Kreta is one of the few students who has taken on 2D and 3D art. “I just like that in 2D I can paint and draw and not have to basically build something to make it 3D and that’s all 3D is about,” Kreta said. “Also, I like doing more realistic things rather than abstract and 3D is a lot of abstract work.”
Rachel Kreta ‘18 used water color, and acrylic paints to create a piece for fun. Photo. R Kreta
AP Studio Art is meant to push artists to create art pieces about once per week. The students are challenged to do so with a variety of materials. This is to help students create their portfolios that will be judged on the AP test. “The most challenging thing for me in art is creating something abstract from just random material that I find,” Kreta said. While art offers artists a way to express their emotions in their pieces, they must also take into account how their audience will react to their work. “I would say some things that go through my mind is definitely seeing if it makes me feel good and if it’s going to make me happy,” Kreta said. “I want all my pieces to have a meaning behind them and have the people that look at them interpret them differently depending on how they feel or what’s going on in their mind.”
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sports
Alex Rogers, 18’ rogersale77@tcapsstudent.net
Boys B’ball The Boys Basketball teams had tryouts for four days in Nov., and headed to their first game against Manton on Dec. 9, where the Varsity team lost both games, and J.V. won both. “We are looking to have a very successful season ahead of us at all three levels. We have a lot of returning players at the Varsity level,” Junior Varsity Head Coach Sean Finnegan said. Many of our upcoming players attended conditioning workouts before the tryouts took place. Both the Freshmen and J.V. teams have new coaches: Coach Cheever for Freshmen team, and Coach Finnigan, who was Varsity Assistant Coach last year, will coach J.V.
THE OCCIDENTALIST
Winter Sports Prep Underway Girls B’ball
Hockey
Ski
Wrestling
Girls Basketball has had many open gym workouts to help them prepare for their first game. Four freshmen were moved up to the J.V. team: Emma Lemerand, Emma Marriott, Darcy Danzer, and Summer Mutley. The first game ran on Nov. 29 against Bay City Central, where the Varsity and J.V. teams took narrow losses, 3231 Varisty, 26-27 J.V. The Freshmen team, however, won with a sweep 35-7.
The Varisty Hockey team held try-outs in early November and headed into its first game against Warren De La Salle where they lost 8-1. The team turned it around for the next game against Farmington where the won 3-0. By early December, the team was three wins, two loses, and one tie. The team is in first place in the Big North Conference, and beat out the TC Trojans, our biggest crosstown rival 5-2 to take first place in the BNC on Dec. 15. “I am very excited for this season, I think we have a good chance to make Regionals,” Elliot Sitkins 18 said.
The Cross Country Ski team has had some dryland training as it awaits the first snowfall. Sophomore Abigail Jean, junior Mary Lyon, and Senior Jacob Dean cross-trained as runners on the Cross Country team, and used roller skies to prepare until the snow hit. Members of the downhill ski team found snow to practice on by traveling to Austria. Maggie Coco ‘18, Elle Warren ‘18, Logan Pitser ‘18, and Evan Culp ‘18 hit the slopes in Hintertux, and also went to Insbruck and Salzburg. “I think we have a chance at winning States this year,“ Warren said. The team waited until December to have snow to practice on.
Bowling
The Wrestling team has been practicing since summer to defend their District title. Four freshmen made the Varsity team: Wylie Edick, Gabe Flowers, Damion Balon, and Ashyn Carnes. “I think we are going to do great this year because we have a great coaching staff and a lot of really dedicated wrestlers,” Flowers said. The wrestling seasons started in Mio and went 1-1. The teams competed hard in the first match, losing a close contest to Roscommon 37-34, but bounced back to beat Mio 65-18.
The Girls Bowling team has four returning players to the Varsity level who plan to defend their six year Conference title. The Boys Bowling team will work to bring seven underclassmen onto the team with two juniors and the two seniors to compete for the Conference title, one they have held for nine other seasons. “We expect the girls to be one of the top teams at Regionals and compete at a high level at States,” Coach Brian Rickert said.
24 hours
Hoopin’ it up for
Students play basketball for 24 hours to support Cancer Travels Billy Jo Kyser, 19’ kyserbil92@tcapsstudent.net
Lady Bowlers Noelle Phillips (center), and sisters Abby and Brianna Rickert compete on the school team and the Michigan Junior Gold team. Photo: Submitted N. Phillips
Going for Gold
Annaka Hansen, 19’
B
hansenann37@tcapsstudent.net
owling has allowed Noelle Phillips ‘20 to meet some of the people she now calls her best friends. It also helped her meet her idol. Phillips says that bowling runs in her blood. She started playing in first grade when her dad first took her, and since then cousins, aunts, uncles, and brothers and sister also participate in the sport, and many are on a league with her at Lucky Jacks. Phillips’ years of experience have opened not only many bowling lanes, but also many avenues. Last year she competed with the West Michigan Junior Gold team and made it to Nationals where she met her bowling hero. “I got to me the world’s best bowler, Jason Belmonte,” she said. “He is my idol. It was a time I will never forget.” Meeting Belmonte seemed to overshadow her achievement of placing 137th overall in the entire country for her age range. At 15 years old, this is the last chance for Phillips to compete in her age division at Nationals, and she has already earned her spot to compete in Cleveland, Ohio. In her free time, she analyzes ESPN bowling tournaments to help prepare for the season. As the new girl’s bowling team starts up, she has high hopes for the team. “The girls really want to make it to States,” she said. “Last year we were really close, but missed by just a little bit. This year we’ve been working really hard over the summer and we’ve uped our game.” Sisters Abby ‘19 and Brianna Rickerts ‘17 are also on the girl’s bowling team and participate on the Michigan Junior Gold team. Like Phillips, they are setting their sights high for this year’s season. “For the girls team, our goal is to make it to States because we are a really tight group of girls,” Abby said. “A few people on the Varsity team go to the Gold tournaments, and it’s just extra practice where we can learn to bowl in different lanes and see different situations and how it may help us later.” The boys and girls bowling teams are divided, with 18 girls, 12 boys. Since the teams first started, the boys teams have won nine Conference titles in a row, but the last two years have lost by only a few pins. The girls bowling team has won six Conference titles, and has been undefeated the last three years.
I
t was a late night for the basketball players and the community when they came together to support not only the basketball team, but also people who suffer from cancer. Former Varsity basketball coach, Greg Immink, started the basketball fund-raiser three years ago in hopes of creating a bond between the community and the basketball team. For 24 hours straight, local businesses sponsor one hour if playing to support the cause, and the players on the teams play against the sponsorships and other teams. “Ideally we would have 24 sponsors, filling the 24 spots,” Varsity Men’s Basketball Head Coach, Sanders Frye said. “This event was started by a coach three years ago,
he started doing something similar when he was down in Europe as a professional player, and we just continued it on after he left. The sponsors get their names on our banner that we put up in the gym, as well as some social media advertising and some radio and TV play too.” Every player on the team helps out with the event in some way, and players not only played for hours on end, they also made phone calls to local businesses to ask for their support to set up the event. “The basketball players all try to get sponsors for the event, both individuals donors and businesses, and they participate by playing for six hours out of the 24 hour period for the actual game
itself,” Frye said. It was a real community effort to make it happen. At the event players, parents and vendors helped out by providing food and equipment for the community and players. The game itself was held in the main court in the big gym, and Student Senate members pitched in to provide games and fun activities late into the morning hours. Parents prepared breakfast for the tired but excited players and community members, too. All three basketball teams were expected to pitch in, but some didn’t need to be asked because the cause was important to them. “I helped out for approximately three hours,” Caden Buist ‘19 said, “My Aunt had cancer recently, and I’d do
anything I can to help her out.” Incoming freshman Parker Neu ‘20 contacted several businesses during a call session that was held a month before the event. Neu’s efforts led to a cash donation, as well as a donation for the silent auction. “I took about two hours of my time to help out,” Neu said, “I sold a sponsor to my father’s business, Neuco Seating. It was a bronze sponsor, which is up to 150 dollars donated.” The 24 hour basketball game has raised over $5000 dollars to Cancer Travels in the past three years. Cancer Travels provides gas cards, groceries, and support to families battling cancer in the area.
Coach’s
CORNER The Wrestling team took four wins and one loss at the Big Rapids Invite on Dec. 10
Rebecca Brown ‘17 cheers at a competition with her cheer team. Photo: C. Brown
Poms up
Autumn Bockhol, 19’
E
bockholaut88@tcapsstudent.net
very cheerleader gets fired up when someone asks the question “Is cheerleading a sport?” Cheerleaders work hard to pump up the fans, but their hard work is not always recognized at the level that they want it to be. The dictionary definition of “sport” might include men and women participating in an activity involving physical effort and skill in which an individual or team competes against others for top recognition. Cheerleading definitely meets this criteria. If we ranked sports by injuries, cheerleading would be as popular as football. Sports Illustrated once ranked cheerleading as second in catastrophic injuries, just behind American football. Sabrina Eisner ‘17 takes part in the AllStar Cheerleading team and knows how serious of a sport it is, that it is not just girls wearing skirts and jumping around and yelling; cheerleading has goals that involve hard training, stiff competition, and winning. “The goal in our cheer team is hitting all of our stunts, clean tumbling, and looking good as a team,” Eisner said. While choreographed stunts may not look like a sport from the stands, the physical agility
and strength should be proof enough that cheerleading is as tough as tackling on the football field. Rebecca Brown ‘17 cheers competitively for the Traverse City Wild Extreme team. She started cheering at age eight, and now competes at the highest level in the program. “I absolutely think competitive cheer is a tough sport,” Brown said. Last year she tore her ACL and Meniscus and had to sit out for six months and use crutches for two of those months. “A lot of people don’t realize how much work actually goes into the sport and how much teamwork it takes. Everyone needs to be doing exactly what they are supposed to or someone can get really hurt. When you’re throwing girls 15 feet into the air it’s really easy for things to go wrong so we need to make sure we take it serious and are safe with everything we do.” Regardless of the opposing viewpoints, the American Medical Association has officially acknowledged cheerleading as a sport. The AMA says cheerleading is a sport based on “rigors and risks” that are involved. The National Cheer Safety Foundation also defines cheer as a sport.
On Dec. 13, the Varisty Boy’s Basektball team beat our Gaylord at a home game, 73-64. The JV and Freshmen teams also took wins. Traverse City West hockey team beat out the Traverse City Trojans 5-2 on Dec. 15, putting them in first place in the BNC. Girls Titan JV Basketball endured tough losses to Grand Haven and Hudsonville Congratulations to Mary Lyon, Maddy Dohm, and Carson Krecow on their selection to the TCRE All Region Girls Cross Country Team Traverse City West Boys Varsity Bowling finished third place at the BNC tournament. The Boys and Girls Varsity and J.V. teams opened their seaons with wins over Glen Lake, TC Central, St. Francis, and TC Christian Congratulations to the Titan Boys Cross Country Squad as the following Student-Athletes made the TCRE All Area Teams Dream Team - Robbie Lohr and Coach Kay 2nd Team - Hayden Holmes, Jacob Dean, and Ryan Durand Honorable Mention - Nate Wilson, Miigwaanhs Barrientoz, and Joe Palmer Titan Softball is holding Winter Clinics coming up after the New Year. Check with coaches for times.