Occidentalist
Standing tall
Students take a stand on standing for the Pledge. Hannah Ashbury ‘19 ashburyhan47@tcapsstudent.net
I
n the 2016 NFL preseason, Colin Kaepernick, former second string quarterback of the San Francisco 49ers, sat during the National Anthem in protest of racial inequality in the United States, and to take a stand against police brutality. After meeting with a former player from the Seattle Seahawks and U.S. Army Special Forces Green Beret, Nate Boyer, Kaepernick decided to kneel instead to show more respect for the men and women that serve or have served in the military. As a United States Airforce Veteran, World History teacher Timothy McDonald earned the right to voice his opinion on the matter. “I don’t have a problem with the kneeling,” he said. “What’s upsetting to me is that there are an awful lot of people that are saying what the military fought for. I don’t like people telling me or other veterans that we’re being disrespected. I just don’t think people should be able speak for a broad group like the entire military. The people that are kneeling have decided they’re doing it to protest police brutality, and I trust that is what it means to them.” The controversy over taking a knee during the National Anthem gained attention when President Donald Trump called NFL players “sons of bitches” and stated that players that choose to sit or kneel during the An-
Do You Stand For the Pledge of Allegiance? No: 15.8%
Yes: 84.2%
Rock out
the
Katie Rundio ‘18 rundiokat33@tcapsstudent.net
T
he rock, which has been a centerpiece of student voice at West since it was first placed in front of the school
more than 10 years ago, simply disappeared
Traverse City West High School
weeks before the 2017-2018 school year began. Rumors flew as students arrived on campus to see a spray painted patch of dirt
VOLUME XXI, EDITION 1 October 2017
in place of the boulder. Two weeks later, the truth was revealed when news broke, revealing Head Principal Joe Esper and Wing Prin-
Contact Us
cipal Charles Kolbusz had secretly removed the rock. Over the years the rock had been at West, it became surrounded in controversy as stu-
Twitter: wshnewspaper Instagram: tcwoccidentalist Website: tinyurl.com/WSH-Occidentalist
“I figure in my 37 years of teaching I have spent over $50,000.” Math teacher Diana Schumacher, see article on funding in schools on page 5.
dents began to decorate it with whatever they wanted, including the Confederate flag and
08
Photo: T.C. Rick Photos
Several fall sports teams were BNC bound. Football mades it to Districts against our biggest crosstown rival, the TC Trojans.
Students stand for the Pledge of Allegiance during the announcements in their first hour class. Photo: C. Hansen
them should be fired. “The president isn’t someone who gets to fire NFL players, he doesn’t have that authority. It’s the player’s First Amendment right to be able to peacefully protest,” McDonald said. While the “taking a knee” battle waged on, students have been given the option of standing, placing their right hand over their heart, reciting the pledge, or sitting quietly during the morning Pledge of Allegiance announcements. In a recent poll, 84% of students stated they choose to stand, while only 43% actually recite the Pledge. “I choose to stand up during the pledge to show respect,” Brandon Heath `19 said. “My dad was in the military, my grandfather was in the military, my great grandfather was in the military. My family has a long line of people that have been in the military, so I stand to show support, it’s what I think is right.” Reciting the pledge became a daily practice in the ‘13-’14 school year when Michigan State law Section 380.1347a, required that all public schools place a flag in each classroom and ensure that an opportunity to repeat the Pledge of Allegiance be offered each day. To begin, the school recited it only on Mondays over the announcements, but gave an option to recite it in the library before school started for those who wanted to participate. After some local citizens took offense to TCAPS Board Members not standing for the Pledge at board meetings, the school decided to change the rules to reciting the Pledge daily. While the majority of students do stand, there are those who choose not to. Junior Shawn Deeren stays seated. “I like our country, I really do,” he said.
“I definitely support it. I’ve even considered joining the military. But when it comes down to it, is our country really that great?” After Vice President Mike Pence protested the silent protestors by leaving an Indianapolis Colts and San Francisco 49ers NFL game after several players knelt during the National Anthem, others chose to use their First Amendment rights to peacefully protest.
Why some teachers don’t stand... “It’s one thing for a private citizen to complain about whether an athlete stands or doesn’t stand during the National Anthem,” teacher and technology coach David Noller said. “But when the Vice President of the United States came out against a peaceful demonstration, one that is protected by the First Amendment, and he not only came out against it, but then walked out on those who claimed that right, I felt that it was beyond the pail. For the Vice President to protest a First Amendment demonstration, was too much for me, and I started sitting during the Pledge in the morning. Sometimes I will stand, but I have already said the pledge, I don’t know that I need to say it everyday.” The controversy continues as people are either unsatisfied with their protection of rights and inequality, or unhappy with the fact that people are protesting against it. “Right now, I am not content with the protections of citizens under The Bill of Rights,” Noller said. “My protest has nothing to do with respect for the country, respect for the military, or even respect for the flag. It’s a protest against what I view as an attack against the First Amendment, free speech and expression, and a targeted attack against a specific group of people.”
The beloved pride rock was removed, controversy came tumbling after other contentious political topics. “This is a high school, and sadly you can’t expect students to be respectful of other
istrators should not have taken the situation into their own hands.” Esper and Kolbusz received unpaid suspen-
opinions,” Martha Starkel ‘18 said. “Because
sions, Kolbusz for two days and Esper five,
the student body is so polarized, rarely do we
after they were accused of lying to the Execu-
engage in a civil discussion with students we
tive Board about their knowledge and involve-
disagree with, and students saw the rock as a
ment in the removal of the rock.
way to make controversy.”
See page four for complete story...
Despite the absence of the rock, it still managed to stir up conflict, this time affecting all of TCAPS. “I am upset and frustrated that the rock was removed,” Starkel said. “I do not think that students are being robbed of their First Amendment rights, but the admin-
The Girls Cross Country team advances to the State Finals at the Michigan International Speedway on Nov. 4. Boy Cross Country runners Robbie Lohr, Hayden Holmes, Henry Heller, Nate Wilson, Ryan Durand, Josiah Frazier and Joe Palmer Qualified for the State meet. The Titan Football team will play against our biggest cross town rival, the TC Trojans at a District Game on Nov. 3
04
Band students from the middle school put down their instuments, leaving the marching band short on musicians.
MUSIC
Former West music students, Katie Larson and Savanna Buist of The Accidentals, release their new album The Odyssey and head out on tour.
06
05 New CLUBS
Check out the newest ways to get involved at school.
U P DAT ES : West will host its Annual Art and Craft Show fundraiser on Nov. 18 from 10 am to 4 pm. Parent Teacher Conferences are being held on Thurs., Nov. 16 from 4:30 to 7:30.
02
TAKING Sides
What’s Your
OPINION?
Does the United States Government need to enforce stricter gun control laws?
Opinions
In light of the Las Vegas mass shooting, and another gun attack in New York, the issue of gun control is back on the hot topic list. Grace Clark and Parker King debate both sides of the issue Grace Clark ‘19 clarkgra92@tcapsstudent.net
“Considering recent events, I think there should be stricter laws.”
Parker King kingpar63@tcapsstudent.net
The Second Amendment states that “A
Gun control is back on the political hot
well-regulated Militia, being necessary to
topic list. This might not be saying much,
the security of a Free State, the right of the
considering that politicians and gun control
people to keep and bear Arms, shall not
debate have an on-and-off relationship, with
be infringed.”
spikes immediately after a disaster, and lulls
Written in 1791, the American govern-
“No, because guns don’t shoot people, people shoot guns.”
when the emotional reactions of the masses
ment did not have to worry about normal
to said disasters have receded. Changing
citizens being able to obtain such destruc-
laws and considering potential reform on
tive weaponry as we deal with in today’s
inconsistent intervals is no way to shape the
society. Everyday we hear of fatal mass
policy of the nation, and it is beneficial to no
shootings across the country, posing the
one except for the demagogues who profit
question of whether or not the Ameri-
off of the crisis.
can government should become more involved with regulating gun laws.
Isabella Beyer ‘21
Jared Garvin ‘20
“In some cases there should be stricter laws, but in others you should be able to protect yourself.”
If America wants a coherent gun policy that considers all of the harms and benefits
It is unrealistic and unconstitutional for
of any gun control measure, one that is in-
our government to ban the public from
dependent of rash decisions which may well
owning guns. However, there comes a
prove regrettable, a good long look at the
point when it is beneficial to take bigger
current climate of the nation is necessary.
steps towards regulating the purchase of
It is important to remember, for example,
them.
that the gun homicide rate has fallen sharply
Being able to purchase a gun without a
Kylie Lewis ‘19
“There should be better gun control because there is a lot of gun violence.”
since the 1990s. Also, one must consider
formal background check is a loophole in
regulations which already exist before
the government’s safety regulations that
blindly shouting for redundant or overly-
needs to be changed. The government
intrusive policies.
should require a background check when
The United States is a sprawling nation
purchasing a gun, including at gun shows,
containing many areas with incredible vari-
in order to help guarantee the overall
ance in these factors. As such, it is foolish to
safety of our country. Enforcing this law
conclude that the federal government will be
at gun shows will not solve the problem of
well-suited for designing a detailed, effective
mass shootings, but it is a step in the right
gun control policy for the entire nation--a
direction in order to help prevent future
one-size-fits-all approach, in other words,
occurrences. These steps will not entirely
cannot work. Leaving most of the regulating
alleviate the horrors of gun violence, but
up to the discretion of the states, or even
by regulating background checks and
localities, would result in a set of rules for
unnecessary accessories, the government
firearms best suited for a community’s given
will move in the direction of security.
situation.
Brian Wagoner ‘18
Who argued it best? After reading both sides of the issue, tell us who you think made the best argument at the link below. We’ll post the winner in our next edition. http://tinyurl.com/taking-sides-gun-control
that it was used a symbol of hate, when its
The
ugl y
message was one of division, intolerance, and sadly, ignorance. We saw the rock painted in protest over Spirit Day, a day which was meant for reaching out to those who are bullied. It
TRUTH
was painted with the Confederate flag at a time when the country was healing from racial wounds. The rock was painted with
The Occi Staff has something to say about the disappearing spirit rock The removal of the spirit rock had the com-
Principal Tibaldi’s face with the message “Obey!” written on it, probably in jest. When it was painted with a rainbow to spread a message of acceptance, students crept in at night to write ‘TRUMP’ over it. Was Principal Esper’s actions unjust?
munity up in arms. Parents and students alike were either in support of the removal
Certainly not. He was only trying to keep
of the rock, or accused Principal Joe Esper
peace at the school by removing a tool that
of misleading the students and community
some were using to divide. He was the
at large of lying, and some even called for
parent taking away the toy that was being
his position to be terminated.
used to hit someone else. That being said,
The Occidentalist
The Occi staff has been covering the spirit The Occidentalist staff members agree that rock since it was first laid at the student
the rock meant a lot to the student body,
entrance to the school. It acted as the
and wish our principals had been more
students’ voice; it was a part of the school’s
transparent in their efforts to remove the
identity. Students have the right to grieve
symbol so that students weren’t struck
its absence.
so hard by its absence on the first day of
When kids don’t play nice with their toys,
Contact Us:
Send us an e-mail with questions, story ideas, concerns, or requests to: wshnewspaper@tcapsstudent.net or drop your letter to the editor in the main office. Letters to the Editor must be 250 words or less. Please contact Mrs. Hansen with requests to purchase ad space in the Occidentalist newspaper at the e-mail listed above.
Editors: Hannah Ashbury Annaka Hansen Katherine Rundio
Graphic Designers: Quentin Ross Evelyn Majszak
Section Designers: Katie Rundio Annaka Hansen Hannah Ashbury Spencer Elhart Billy Jo Kyser Kendall Marshall Alyssa Roland Hope Thompson
Staff Writers: Hannah Ashbury Autumn Bockhol Constance Burnam Leona Eckert Spencer Elhart Blase Gapinski Annaka Hansen Addison Haworth
school. The wound to our rock-pride will take
parents have the right to take them away. The Occidentalist has covered the many
time to heal. Perhaps if Principal Esper will
controversies that the rock has caused over
work to find an agreeable replacement to
the years. We have written about the times
the missing rock, it will heal faster.
From the Editorial Board
The 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 prior-reviewed or restrained by school officials prior to publication or distriAlexis Hepler Billy Jo Kyser Evelyn Majszak Logan Maloney Kendall Marshall Sol Medwed-Cohen Parker Neu Alex Rogers Alyssa Roland
Katherine Rundio Hope Thompson Chance Wakefield
Content Manager:
bution. Advisors may and should coach 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.
Photo Editors: Alden Wack Holly Yoder
Billy Jo Kyser
Columnists
Business Manager:
Grace Clark Parker King Paul Young
Parker Neu
Social Media Editor: Leona Eckert
Cartoonist Bryn Courtieri
Advisor: Catherine Hansen
Honoring the cords
03
New cord sytem recognizes seniors for academics and serving the community
Sky Payberg ‘19 paybergsky16@tcapsstudent.net
spent time talking with teachers and
not involve a high GPA or being involved with
The new cord system came up as an
principals in Canada, where community
sports.
their entire high school career to boost
idea at a programming community meet-
service work is a requirement for gradua-
their transcripts in order to get into a
ing where teachers discuss ways to for
tion. Working with Principal Joe Esper, it
good college.
students to find greater success at school.
Walking the stage at graduation is a milestone for seniors, and many work
was decided to offer the option to earn a cord to re-
Spanish teacher Kate Hansen does
district cording system which are helping
community service work as a
kids boost confidence, enhance their
member of the Order
transcripts, and develop life skills. A
of the Eastern
new colored cord system will recognize
Stars, and
seniors for their academics, athletic abili-
had
ward students who do good work in their communities. “I think it’s
ties, and now their willingness to serve
important
the public.
that students serve
Senior Nathan Clishe ‘18 is working
“Students can earn the 100 hours throughout their high school career just by serving their community,” Esper said. “By creating this new system we hope that students will take this opportunity to earn a cord and help better our community.”
The colors of cords... Colored cords in gold, silver, and bronze are earned for meeting GPA rankings, while the white cord is for National Honor Society mem-
for a red chord which is achieved when a
and show
student donates at least six pints of blood
compassion
and Technical Honor Society. Green and silver
to make our com-
are for National Business Honor Society. Now,
throughout their high school career.
munities stronger,” Hansen
“I am at five pints, and I need six to get
bers. Purple and silver cords are for Career
the blue cord will be earned for community
the cord,” Clishe said. “I hope to continue
said. “When students help others, they
donating more until I die. Or until I can’t
are more invested in themselves, too. One
Students who are interested in earning the
thing I learned after talking to people
new cord can get more information from their
anymore.”
in Canada is that when community
Students with college on their mind
service is forced on students, they
work hard to earn a cord for a high GPA,
service programs.
counselors. Students will be required to track their hours with signatures and contacts for
but a new cord this year is for students
don’t appreciate it as much, so
who complete 100 hours of community
Mr. Esper and I decided to plan
service over their four year high school
for the cords that could be earned,
involved with serving in our communities,”
career. Major universities, including
rather than making volunteering a
Hansen said. “I know we have a lot of great
requirement.”
Harvard are adding components to their
the places where they do volunteer work. “It would be nice to see more students get
students at West who are already doing great
Esper wanted to start the volunteer
admissions process to seek students who
News
Recent changes were made to the
ment with the public good.”
things in our community, and they deserve
“promote more meaningful contributions
cord system so that more students can be
to be recognized for this. I hope the new cord
to others, community service, and engage-
recognized for their hard work that may
system encourages more to get involved.”
Girl power Enrollment for girls is on the rise at the Career Tech. Center Leona Eckert ‘19 eckertleo58@tcapsstudent.net
G
irls and boys are taught about notable scientists from a very yong age, and
them.” Reed noted that over the years there have been a number
those historical figures are predomi-
of girls in the Automotive Tech
nantly male. A recent Cornell study
program, and when it comes to
found that this discourages women
drop or stick it out, it is always
from participating in those fields of
the girls who stay with the class
work. STEM teachers at the Career
until the end.
Tech Center see that their classes are
One program that has seen a
predominately male students, and
notable increase in the number
hope to bring more female students
of participating girls is the Pub-
to the science and technology fields.
lic Safety program. “I would say we’re closer to
asked is: Am I interested?” TBA Ca-
50% [of female enrollment] in
reer Tech Center Web and Game Pro-
the morning,” Public Safety
gramming (WGP) instructor, Bruce
instructor, Thomas Lennox said.
Provencher said. “I think there’s a
“In the afternoons, it’s more like
perception that you have to have a lot
eight out of 26. About 20% of
of knowledge in math. You don’t have
those women go into the mili-
to be a wizard in math.”
tary. We’ve done a very good job,
Caught in the overflow Enrollment trends are on the rise, with 1660 students taking seats to learn, classes are overflowing. Logan Maloney ‘20 maloneylog30@tcapsstudent.net
and being married to a female
T
there aren’t many women within
police officer and sharing those
teachers are feeling the
WGP, however, and Provencher en-
stories helps.”
added pressure of having
so each student gets less
It doesn’t come as a surprise that
he halls seem to
What makes it so challeng-
ing oversized and mixed
be bursting at the
ing for Riedy is to teach
level classes, like the
seams. Classrooms
different German levels in
ones Riedy has, brings
one class.
on more unnecessary
are overcrowded, and
“I’m only one teacher,
demand and stress. Over the last few years
Lennox realized that there
too many students in the
of my time because there
the enrollment trends
are preconcieved notions about
room. Class sizes are up,
are two or three levels in
have fluctuated, and the
students to consider IT as a career,”
some careers that discourage
which is a good thing, con-
one class. I’m divided into
steady increase in num-
he said. “I think it’d be great to have
girls from pursuing an education
sidering West draws other
three teachers instead of
ber of students is a sign
more female students in my program.
in those fields.
students from the district.
one,” Riedy said.
of the school’s strength in
courages more women to join. “I would like for more female
It offers everyone the opportunity to
“One of the discouraging fac-
“We are 60 students up
Riedy hopes the district
academics and meeting
work with people of both genders,
tors may be that it’s believed it
from last year” said Princi-
changes something about
student needs. Principal
because you’ll have to, and that’s im-
takes strength to do the job.”
pal Charles Kolbusz.
this issue.
Joe Esper has said that
portant.” The Web and Game desing-
Lennox said. “I think when
ing class is not the only program that
females hear the job responsi-
looks good on paper,
understanding this is new
enroll at West because
could use more women in it.
bilities, they relay that to other
it’s another thing for the
and I’m trying new things.”
the school has a lot to
women and promote it.”
teachers who have the
she said “I would like time
offer.
“I’m in the Auto Body Repair pm
While overcrowding
“I just hope the district is
families are choosing to
session,” Corey Reed, ‘18 said. “I very
On Oct. 27, the Traverse Bay
work load. More papers
to work with the other
much enjoy my program; it’s been my
Area Career Tech Center hosted
to grade, less room in the
teachers so we can work
cares about the students
passion since I was a tike.”
its 17th annual GirlTECH to
classrooms, less time for
out a situation. I would like
and has good relation-
promote non-traditional careers
the teacher to interact with
them to consider not doing
ships with the students,”
sons for not joining the automotive
for female students in Antrim,
their students.
split classes at the lower
he said. “After decades of
repair classes at the CTC.
Benzie, Kalkaska, Leelanau
levels.”
budget cuts we still have
Reed thinks girls have specific rea-
For German teacher
“The staff genuinely
“It’s not really appealing because
and Grand Traverse counties.
Claudia Riedy, her num-
Teaching in a regular
lots of elective options,
females don’t like getting their hands
Students learned a wide range
bers are “skyrocketing”
class already has its hard-
15 plus AP courses, four
dirty and they don’t like manual
of careers and local training op-
compared to last year’s
ships. The class sizes are
languages, and per-
labor. There needs to be something
portunities at NMC and the TBA
class sizes, one class this
simply too big and too
forming and visual arts
that catches their eye, that attracts
Career-Tech Center.
year has 39 students in it.
hard to work in but teach-
programs.”
The Occidentalist
“The real question that needs to be
German teacher Claudia Reidy’s class is filled to the edges with 39 students packed in. Her classes are mixed, with varying levels combined. She puts in overtimes to make sure all students who want to learn German are fit into one of her classes. Photo: A. Whack
04
Marching on
New, yet experienced
Local News
or marching ou
As students fear the march to music, enrollment in music wing goes flat.
2000 until 2013 when she retired. When her repalcement, Rachel Linsmeier went back to MSU to further her music education, a suitable replacement could not be found. That’s when the school board asked Brumbaugh to return. “I miss the students.” Brumbaugh said, although she knows that the school is
At an after school rehearsal, eighth graders march with the high school marching band as they start training. Photo: C. Hansen
looking for the perfect fit to direct the band program. “The administration is really com-
Alyssa Roland ‘20 rolandaly60@tcapsstudent.net
M
mitted to getting the right person,” She said.
ost current march-
“With practices and performances
ing band members
every week, marching band was too
smooth and steady pace,” saxaphone
will say marching
much and I didn’t have time for other
player Gracie Noller ‘20 said.
band the best part
things,” Luke Robertson ‘21 said.
of high school, but incoming fresh-
like the roll step and how to keep a
There are so many factors that play
Of course, extra-curriculars like
into this issue, but many students
man are often intimidated by the
marching band can fill students’
find the hard work required by
process.
schedules, and some people simply
marching band worth it because of
don’t have the space for it. Another
the friends they make and the fun
one, and commitments like march-
reason why students may be drop-
they have when marching.
ing band can add a new level of
ping is because of the amount of
stress to an already difficult transi-
dedication needed to be successful in
describe it is fun,” Noller said. “You
tion. This is one of the reasons why
marching band.
make a countless amount of friends
Freshman year is scary for every-
the marching band is seeing many
“I would have had to learn a com-
student section with them is so much
Band director Pat Brumbaugh
you can’t march with mine,” Robert-
fun.”
son said. The teaching process is also dif-
ing freshman, those who made the
commitment, steering people away
used to how things are done in the
choice to stick with it say it is the
from continuing band after middle
marching band.
best part of their high school experi-
“It can be hard to teach them things
Blase Gapinski ‘21 gapinskibla42@tcapsstudent.net
S
new career. “It was a big stroke of luck, and I was excited because it’s kind of my dream job,” she said about taking the position Pylvainen is excited to begin working with new students. “The students are really hard working, they show up prepared and they’re independent, like if I ask them to do something they really just go do it on their own
seem intimidating or scary to incom-
ficult when students are new and not
Food Fight
ment from Ann Marie Jones, who left to pursue a
Though the marching band may
ing new techniques is a huge time
school.
from Ann Arbor to take over the orchestra depart-
in marching band, and sitting in the
pletely different instrument because
issue. Memorizing music and learn-
This year, Ingrid Pylvainen moved to Traverse City
“The only word I can find to
students drop after eighth grade. says that it has always been an
and I don’t have to badger them all the time. I am really impressed in their work ethic and how they put so much effort in.”
ence.
New administration brings new changes to the school lunch menus and what the cafeteria can serve students
grain which is making things a little nicer. We’re able to serve potatoes
the healthy fund is.
child obesity.
“It’s about ensuring that all of you
“A healthy lunch is important to
a couple more times a week and we
keep kids from becoming overweight
have everything you need to learn
ince Michelle Obama’s
have increased the serving sizes in
and to ensure that they get all of
and grow and succeed in school and
healthy school lunch pro-
some things.”
their proper nutrients,” Hackett said.
in life,” Obama said.
gram was passed in 2010,
Obama’s pro-
With so many new changes coming
Although she sees the importance of a healthy
to the school’s lunch requirements,
planned to maintain proper health.
lunch for students,
Hackett encourages students to get
The program limited the amount of
Hackett dislikes serving
involved with the kitchen staff and
salt, grains, and carbohydrates that
food that the kids don’t
share their opinions and ideas about
could be served in K-12 schools,
enjoy.
the new lunch menus.
school lunches have been
“We try to give you
“We try really hard to give you guys
istration, schools are already seeing
guys the best tasting
what you want,” Hackett said. “And if
changes in what they can serve as
products that we can
you ever have ideas or certain things
President Trump works on canceling
use,” Hackett said. “We
you want then please let us know and
the program.
don’t enjoy serving
now that the program might be com-
thing that you guys
ing to an end, we will be able to serve
don’t like.”
you the food that you like and want.
but with this election’s new admin-
“We already have a few changes this year,” kitchen staff member, Trish Hackett said. “We are able to use 49 percent white bread in things instead of having to use 100 percent whole
The Occidentalist
Pat Brumbaugh was the band director from
Although the program may be ending,
Over the summer, in a “back to gram was meant to help students eat healthier in hopes of decreasing
Rock story continued... Despite his sentencing, Esper chose to fight his punishment. Esper declined to comment. As Esper began his fight, he gained support from his peers and his staff members. Government Tak Ready wrote a letter in support of Esper that was signed by more than 60 teachers, many who showed up at a board meeting when he read it to the Board memebers. Ready and the staff were not the only ones there to
school message,” Obama explained
we hope students still make healthy
what she believes the importance of
eating choices.”
ASD
Artistic Endeavors Paul Young ‘19 youngpau61@tcapsstudent.net
A
idan Tiernan ‘18 dropped a solid
with autism, bringing them joy. “I was raised to always give if possible,” Tiernan said. Anybody that knows him knows that he is very hardworking and disciplined--an accomplished individual. “If you’re in a position to help, you should try.” Rice asked if Tiernan was sure about his do-
$100 bill into a jar, knowing that it
nation after realizing that he was holding a bill
would never return. He went up to
with Alexander Hamilton on it. He could have
defend Esper. The Traverse City Administration Association’s
ASD and Psychology teacher Dan Rice and
leader, Ryan Schrock, presented a letter that was intended to
asked if he could make a last minute dona-
‘bring to light concerns over the pattern and practice of harass-
tion for the Autism Art Prize. Rice gave him
edly decided the competition by putting in so
ment and intimidation by the Executive Team onto the Adminis-
the go ahead, yet he wasn’t expecting such a
much money, since the painting he chose won.
tration Team.’
large contribution.
“It comes down to the fact that it’s a serious allegation, and given who the allegations were directed towards, it made sense that
“I was definitely shocked by the donation.” Rice said. “The most one person usually gives
taken it back. But he didn’t. Tiernan realizes he may have single-hand-
“Yes, but it was not my intention to do so,” he said. Rice was truly appreciative of the support
it rise to the level of the Board,” Erik Falconer, the School Board
is $10 or $20. Aidan is a very kind and com-
from all, especially Tiernan’s “His generosity
President said. “The Board doesn’t hear every complaint and nor
passionate person--so looking back it makes
is a great example for us all.” As seen through
should we hear every complaint, but in this situation because of
sense that he did that”
this large gift, one act of kindness can change
who was levied against, it made sense for us to consider it.”
Named after the Art Prize Competition in
After the TCAA submitted their claim that harassment and in-
Grand Rapids, Rice wanted to generate funds
timidation was being used in the TCAPS system, Falconer and the
in a unique and fun way for the students with
School Board ordered a formal investigation into the complaint.
autism in his ASD-mentoring class. They each
The investigation is ongoing, and an investigator from downstate
got one class period to practice on paper,
was brought to Traverse City to assess the allegations at a cost of
and then another class period to make their
up to $20,000 to the district budget.
paintings on canvas with brushes and other
“The investigator’s job is to determine the objective facts at the
many; several acts of kindness can change the world.
art implements. Staff and students put money
center of the situation and to determine whether there is truth to
in jars to vote on the art piece they liked the
the complaints and make suggestions for ways to move forward,”
most. The money raised is used to help run
Falconer said. “The challenge, and really we have to view it as an
the mentoring class in two ways: the first half
opportunity, that we have as a district is to move forward from
is for a field trip to Clark’s Pumpkin Patch
that and to make sure that we are a stronger organization going
in the fall, while the rest adds some spice to
forward than we have been in the past.”
the class throughout the year for the students
Art from the ASD students hangs in front of the library for students to vote on by putting money into jars as a fundraiser.
New Clubs Students are finding new ways to engage at school
FUNDING the UNDERfunded Teachers dig deep in their pocketbooks to fund student projects
05
Alex Rogers ‘18 rogersale77@tcapsstudent.net
A
Evelyn Majszak ‘19 majszakeve91@tcapsstudent.net
Table Top Guild The Table Top Guild club was created by Gracie Noller ‘20, Annalysse Gronda ‘20, and Tyler Cornwell ‘20, who all wanted a laid back, fun club for students that aren’t involved in as many extracurriculars and are looking to make new friends by playing games that are competitive, cooperative, and fun. Club members play role-playing games, card games, and board games, including Lords of Waterdeep, Potion Explosion, Onitama, Dungeons and Dragons, Forbidden Island, and more. Table Top Guild Club meets in B105, on Thursdays after school until 5:00.
Multicultural Club Heidi Gregory, the Multicultural club’s advisor, wants students to be able to experience and learn about new cultures. “The club provides a welcoming atmosphere and friends for new foreign exchange students and immigrant students and provides
students. “West does a good job supplying teachers with classroom supplies,” Ranke said. “ I don’t think that there is a single amount that each class needs. I believe each department needs more funding so they can purchase materials that they need to make their classes better and more engaging, such as readers in foreign language classes. Teachers should not have to ask for donations, but DonorsChoose makes it really easy for me to fund projects for my classroom and I believe that it adds so much to my classroom and helps my students so much that I don’t mind spending a bit of my time setting up these projects.” Mrs. Hansen holds a second job at Horizon Books where she uses her discount to buy books for her Spanish library, but when it came to fund classroom sets, she followed Ranke’s lead and turned to the website. “I have spent hundreds on books, and have bought many in Mexico when I travel there,” Hansen said. “I want my students doing free reading to help them engage in the language naturally. Students can learn up to 120 words just through reading, and novels expose them to repeated structures in the language.” She admits that she paid $150 of the $618 fee through DonorsChoose because the program was matching funds as a promotion. Math teacher Diana Schumacher estimates she has spent enough on her classroom to make a rather large personal purchase. “I buy my own supplies for the classroom,” Schumacher said. “I figure in my 37 years of teaching I have spent over 50,000. I could buy a new car with that money.” DonorsChoose is a helpful tool, but nearly all teachers admit to spending much of their own money on their students. More than 60% have reported using Donorschoose, Go Fund Me and applying for grants, but with SB 57 on the horizon, these numbers may rise to 100%.
School News
s budgets tighten for schools around the country, teachers have been stepping up to fund their own projects to support student learning. In past years teachers were given a small amount of money, $75 to supplement their teaching supplies. Over the years that number dwindled. First $65. Then $50. Now, nothing. In mid-October, the Michigan Senate proposed SB 57 which will allow charter schools in the state to collect revenues from future millages, leading some to worry that public school funds will be shifted to for-profit charter schools that aren’t held to the same expectations as public schools. If this bill passes, funding projects in the public schools could get even more difficult. While the main office supplies teachers with markers, tape, paper, pens, and some of the basics, many teachers have resorted to other ways to fund their classrooms needs. Some are using DonorsChoose, a website that allows teachers to solicit funding for their projects. By sharing a link with parents of their students and personal friends, teachers can show how materials benefit student learning when asking for donations. Spanish teachers Erik Ranke and Catherine Hansen used DonorsChoose to purchase Spanish novels for their
cultural enrichment for students native to Traverse City,” Gregory
Capitalizing on
said. The students who started the club are Natalia Gonzalez ‘20 and Camryn Calderwood ‘19,
CAREERS
who wanted foreign exchange students to be able to make new friends while learning about America and teaching their host
Students participate in the school’s first Manufacturing day to learn about careers in industrial production
families and friends about their own culture. Multicultural club meets in B102, on Monday mornings at 7:30.
Young Peacebuilders Club The goal of the Young Peacebuilders club is to create a more
Annaka Hansen ‘19 hansenann37@tcapsstudent.net Students line up to listen to a presenter at Manufacturing Day at Bay Motors Photo: M. Skodak.
together to eliminate violence, inequality, and neglect. Dr. Michael McGill is the founder of the Peacebuilder Organization, and
turing Day. Students visited local manufacturing facilities including TentCraft, United
event coordinates visits by student groups to local
for it last year. This year, French
companies to learn about what they do and the
teacher, Jennifer Geroux, wanted
career opportunities that exist in the manufacturing
to start this club because she and
sector.
Spanish Teacher, Tamara Batcha,
On Oct. 6 manufacturers opened their doors to
were looking for a way to work
students to discuss career opportunites, in hopes
with students to help them learn
that they were meeting with potention members of
about finding problems locally
their future work force.
and globally and teach them about positive ways to solve
Mark Skodak is the Robotics, Architecture, Computed
these problems.Young Peace-
Aided Design, AP computer Science, and Program-
builders club meets in A209, on
ming teacher. This is his first full year teaching at
Wednesday afternoons at 4:00.
West, and he came to replace the previous math and robotics teacher,
“Experiences gained from attending Manufacturing Day could be the catalyst of change for high school students providing them with a reason to achieve success in high school leading them to their dream career,”
Phillip Leete in the ‘16-’17 school year. His previous experience includes working as a civil engineer and teaching Engineering, Architecture, and Design at Farmington Hills for
Robotics teacher Mark Skodak
six years where he and his wife developed the
district’s Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) program. Skodak is proud to be one of the Collin Shaun ‘21 and Mike Derry ‘21 participate in the Table Top Guild in B105. Photo: D. Noller
high schools took part in the 2017 Manufac-
Engineered Tooling, and many more. The annual
Charles Rennie was the advisor
To learn about club options, check out the club board in front of the main office, behind the circle table.
n mid-October students from the middle and
teachers who educate students on STEM job related skills.
STEM teacher Mark Skodak might be newer to the district as of the middle of last year, but he jumped on the chance to get his students participating in they day’s events. “I feel Manufacturing Day is a valuable opportunity for our high school students,” he said. “This is an opportunity to see the insides of manufacturing facilities to not only see how products are made but to also experience how people work in their environments. The results from this experience I feel empowers students with knowledge of what they could be doing in their future careers.” The local event has grown from eight manufacturers when is started in 2014, to an anticipated 30 manufacturers this year. As well as more manufacturers participating, so are the number of students attending. In 2014 there were about 300, this year more than 800 were expected. “Experiences gained from attending Manufacturing Day could be the catalyst of change for high school students providing them with a reason to achieve success in high school leading them to their dream career,” Skodak said. “I am glad my students had this opportunity and am looking forward to next year.”
The Occidentalist
I
peaceful reality by working
06
You just had to BEE there
Arts & Entertainment
The cast of The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee raise their hands, wanting to get chosen to spell the next word. Photo by H. Thompson
Audience particpation brings the fall musical to life Hope Thompson ‘20 thompsonhop04@tcapsstudent.net
E
ver since The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee debuted on Braodway in 2005, it has been known as a quirky, fun, and hilarious show. Students in the music wing made sure it stayed that way. “We picked this show because it is smaller than a lot of shows,” Spanish teacher and Director Erik Ranke said. “The set was really easy, the costumes were really easy, and it’s a really well written show, so we knew it would be a fun show to do.” The set consisted of a few rows of seats on risers with a large “Spelling Bee” banner hanging above. The costumes were made up mostly of the performers’ own clothes. Besides being easy to produce, there were many elements which made the show fun, including bringing up members of the audience to spell out words. And just because the musical was a comedy doesn’t mean it lacked a deeper meaning. “The message of the show is that things will always work
out in the end, and that it’s okay to be a little bit different,” Ranke said. Madison Hertel ‘18 played the role of Olive Ovstrovsky, a shy and intelligent speller in the musical. She has performed in dozens of musicals, including on the big stage in Chicago, television appearances, and has performed leads in major productions like The Wizard of Oz, The Sound of Music, and The Secret Garden. With all this experience, she still recognized that there was something special about this musical. “This show is very different,” she said.“It’s the story of a spelling bee, it’s kind of weird and funky.” Adding audience participation made the plot unpredictable, but also exciting. “That’s very important because it can get the community involved with the musical instead of just watching it like a normal musical,” Peyton Diehl ‘19 said. She played Marcy Park, a sharp-witted overachiever in the production. While the stage was only adorned with a banner, bleach-
Making it BIG time West Alumni break into the music scene with their new album, Odyssey Billy Jo Kyser ‘19 kyserbil92@tcapsstudent.net
“One of my favorite times to perform would be at the festivals,” Buist said. “There are a lot of festivals in Michigan, they are really
The music program at TCAPS has inspired many students to take
stance, if your performance isn’t on par, the audience wasn’t into it,
their skills to the next level and pursue their dreams through music.
or if you have to wait in a parking lot because you’re not old enough
enjoyment. Rather, it’s a lifestyle and a way to express their
to be in.” Sometimes live performances don’t always turn out as planned. “There’s a lot of definitions of a bad gig,” Larson said. “For in-
Larson, are members of the up and coming band The Accidentals. The two met in Ann Marie Jones’s orchestra class, but never expected their musical talent would lead to touring nationally. “After school, Katie and I would play in this alternative style club, where we would cover Led Zeppelin, Coldplay, and other people on
to get in. But if you go in with the right attitude, and are able to make at least one connection with someone or give someone a CD and they’re just super stoked to be there, it instantly transforms into a good gig.” This band’s indie-folk style brings enjoyment and energy to the stage with unique sounds that blend jazz, rock, folk, and even punk. “I really enjoy performing our mashup,” Larson said. “We end all
our violin and cello,” Buist said. After starting their music career at West, Buist and Larson trans-
of our sets with a composition called The Ballad Tendered Gun with
ferred to Interlochen Arts Academy, and since have shared the stage
Jake Allen. We end it with a minor swing by Stephane Grappelli and
with music legends, including Joan Baez. Michael Dause soon joined
Django Reinhardt which is like a Gypsy Jazz tune, which is probably
as their drummer to make the trio and the band was named by
the most fun part to perform.”
Billboard magazine as one of that year’s top seven acts at the South
Buist and Larson could not have imagined the success they would have as musicians when they first started playing together in the
by Southwest music festival in Austin, Texas. “We are just as busy as we have been since we first started four
The Occidentalist
when they come back to Michigan to play for their home town fans.
T
o some musicians, music is more than entertainment and
Violinist and lead singer, Savannah Buist and bassist/singer, Katie
years ago,” Larson said. “I think every year we learn more and more.
Game: Star Wars Battlefront II
Touring the country takes its toll, and the trio is always happiest
cool because they feel like family reunions. It’s a great environment
emotions.
The Accidentals new albumn The Odyssey was relseased by Masterworks Records in the fall. The band has been touring the country to promote its release.
ers, and a desk, the uncomplicated set didn’t mean that putting the rest of the show together was uncomplicated. The Choral-Aires students started working in the summer to prepare for the musical. “We have been working hard every single day since the last week of summer,” Diehl said. “It’s been very difficult and challenging to get homework done, but it has been totally worth it.” The added hours to bring it together paid off, and the singers performed to sold out shows. “It’s a Choral-Aires musical, and we’re a choir, but we do this show together and it’s a lot of really good team building, and it’s also just like we have a lot of fun together It only makes our choir stronger and our group better,” Hertel said. The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee provided a way to get involved with the arts by creating a show that the audience could participate in. It’s things like this show that make the chorale program so R-E-M-A-R-K-A-B-L-E.
orchestra room. “I believe Katie and I have been overachievers since high school
Our definition of success is just to keep growing. Every year we
and we actually were really passionate about school and learning,”
have the opportunity to collaborate with other artists and we also
Buist said. “We are definitely open to learning all the time. One of
just signed a record deal with Sony Masterworks, which our album
the things that inspires and motivates us to keep doing what we do,
the Odyssey is on, so we are very appreciative of that, and we are
is definitely the audience and supporters. In 10 to 15 years, we hope
learning how to respond and collaborate with that as well. I think
to still be involved with music and doing what we are doing today,”
we will keep continuing to grow, and we are very thankful for our
Buist and Larson said. “We are excited to keep on touring and put-
opportunities.”
ting out music for enjoyment.”
Bingeworthy Sol Medwed-Cohen ‘21 medwedsol84@tcapsstudent.net
Book: Throne of Glass
eroes are born on the battlefield,
which include emotes, skins, and card
and in Electronic Art’s New game
upgrades for both heroes, troopers, and
Kendall Marshall ‘20 marshallken71@tcapsstudent.net
H
I
were growing at just the right speed, and it was obvious that they had became stronger by the end of the book. The romantic twists that take place
n Sarah J. Maas’ young adult fantasy
leave the reader wanting more, and the
novel, Throne Of Glass, which begins
prevalent use of foreshadowing and
Star Wars Battlefront II, gamers can now
starships, you can also unlock them
experience that. With the epic beta now
by playing multiplayer. Downloadable
over, and the full release coming up,
content is free, a rare treat for gamers,
a multivolume series, Maas creates the
mystery makes the novel even more ap-
players wait patiently for the full game.
especially for EA fans. EA plans to re-
world of Earlas, where the king has called
pealing.
lease free DLC every couple of months,
a competition for a champion.
Battlefront II is filled with massive
Chosen as the prince’s competitor, the
The novel introduces a a major cliffhanger not at the end at the end of the
battles on the ground, through thrilling
the DLC will include at least two new
dogfights in space, and offline co-op and
heroes, and at least one new map, and
main character, Celaena, has been given
versus, both of which have a split-screen
much more. Battlefront ll will have 18
a chance at freedom from the slavery she
option. Battlefront ll contains a new
different maps to play on, seven heroes
had been forced into after being captured.
sense of connection between the reader
single player campaign to help bridge
and seven villains to play as, and 39 ve-
However, something has been lurking in
and the characters.
the events between Star Wars: Return Of
hicles. All listed features will be spread
the shadows, and it has been waiting to
across the eras of Star Wars.
kill, and Celaena might be next.
The Jedi and Star Wars: The Force Awak-
ens. The campaign is officially in the lore
Overall the game is a must buy even
The plot of Throne of Glass excites the
novel, but throughout the story itself. The author’s descriptions, create a deep
Readers will have many questions for the next book, Maas’ has definitely written an amazing
if you’re not a Star Wars fan because
reader so that the reader cannot put it
book that is more than worth the read
Battlefront II is well priced and draws
down. It leads to surprises that a reader
and appeals to all ages, not just young
run on the new Frostbite engine, which
players in. This makes for a long lasting
would never see coming. The plot adds
adults.
makes the experience very realistic. Al-
game and great experiences in both a
new characters that make the story so
competitive and non-competitive sense.
much more interesting. The characters
of the Star Wars univerese. The game has amazing graphics that
though you can spend money on crates,
The sixth novel in the series, Tower of Dawn, was released on Sept. 5
07
the boy with the
diabetes tattoo
Features
Junior Caleb Wilkins gets a tattoo to symbolize the lifetime commitment he has to staying healthy Annaka Hansen ‘19 hansenann37@tcapsstudent.net The 21st century has brought many innovations to the diabetic medical world. The new Dexcom CGM blood glucose monitor gives constant blood sugar readings to help keep the user’s levels in range. Closed Loop Systems function as an artificial pancreas, communicating between blood sugar readers and insulin pumps to ensure better health. With so many technological innovations, many diabetics and their loved ones look forward to finding a cure sometime in the future and more are finding their lives of needle pokes, regulating their diets and doctor visits more managable. But even with all the advancements in the field, the struggle still stands. Living with the dangers of diabetes can be difficult. Caleb Wilkins ‘19 was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes on March 4 of 2011. Recently, he decided to get a diabetes tattoo, with the Caduceus symbol (two snakes wrapped around a staff with wings at the top) to signify a medical alert. Placed on his right forarm, the tattoo is meant to indicate that he is diabetic in case of an emergency. “I just got my car and if I were to pass out in the car, for example, the paramedics could look at my arm and be like ‘Okay, this kid needs juice or something to help.’” Being only 16 years old, Wilkins needed parent permission to get the tattoo, but the decision was clear for him and his mom. “I got my tattoo from Pinups and Needles by the old library,” Wilkins said. “I had different ideas for the design at first and then I talked with my mom and we came to an agreement with what it would look like and what would be acceptable, so the decision was really mutual between the two of us.” Despite seeing so much progress in the diabetic medical world, Wilkins still realizes that the cure for diabetes still may be distant. “What really made me decide to get it is that I’ve come to terms with the fact
Caleb Wilkins `19 shows off his new tattoo that symbolizes something that will stay with him for the rest of his life. =Photo: A. Hansen
that I’m never going to get rid of it,” Wilkins said. “It’s going to stick with me my whole life.” While his arm artwork is there to save his life in case of an emergency, it has also become his badge of courage, a symbol of how his diabetes defines him.
NOT Fine
Honoring the Dead
with the
Pipeline
Students turn to their traditions to celebrate their ancestors. Constance Burnam ‘18 burnamcon95@tcapsstudent.net
ish students are learning about building altars to celebrate El Dia de Los Muertos, a Hispanic tradi-
tion that celebrates and honors the lives of their ancestors.
Addison Haworth `21 haworthadd26@tcapsstudent.net People gather at Mackinac Bridge in Fort Michilimackinac Park to protest Pipeline 5. Photo: H. Bird
W
inter had come and gone, and so had the hope of many of the Native American people. The people
and much more. Unfortunately, after all of the suffering, pain, disrespect, and violence, the Dakota Access
Students learn the meaning and tradition of baking bread,
of the Oceti Sakowin camp near the Standing
Pipeline is still being built. Despite the setback,
leaving offerings, and lighting candles to invite the souls of
Rock Sioux Reservation in North Dakota had
it seemed the world had been awakened, and lo-
the deceased to spend time with their loved ones.
been protesting since April 2016. It had been
cally, citizens began coming together to remove
hard on the people and on the land.
Pipeline 5 in northern Michigan.
Thirty-five Indian Education students also have their own traditions they are learning about and practicing.
On Jan. 24, President Donald Trump signed
Pipeline 5 is an oil line that goes through the
Ghost suppers are a Native American tradition all about re-
a memorandum inductively authorizing the
Mackinac Straits, which is right in the middle
membering their ancestors. Ghost suppers, like Day of the
Secretary of the Army to sanction the construc-
of the lakes that connect to virtually almost
Dead, take place the first week of November, and the Native
tion of the Dakota Access Pipeline, a 1,172
all of Michigan’s freshwater. The pipeline is a
American communities bring food, offer tobacco, have a
mile pipeline spanning from Illinois to North
little over 64 years old, and was supposed to
fire and share music through drumming and singing. These
Dakota. The Native Americans living in Stand-
only last for 50 years, which makes it 14 years
traditions bring people together to celebrate ancestors and
ing Rock knew the potential hazards it could
overdue for its lifespan. The oil company has
keep traditions alive.
bring.
been endeavoring to handle the situation of fix-
Gabriela Gallegos ‘18 used to celebrate Day of the Dead
The pipeline runs through the Cannonball
ing the pipeline, but the situation only got worse
in Mexico before moving to Michigan. She says honoring
River, which the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe
over time. The oil company could take out the
her ancestors is one of the most important things she can
drinks from it.
line, but it would cost money and time to do so.
do as a culture. “They are no longer here and we have to remember
“That was the whole basis of the protest,” Holly Bird, Water Protectors Legal Collective
If it spills, it will destroy virtually 21% of the world’s freshwater.
them,” she said. When she lived in Mexico she did not
Ground Coordinator said. “It was to protect
All of this can be stopped. Local tribes have
attend school on the Day of the Dead and would go to the
the water of the Missouri River and the only
been petitioning, protesting, voting, speaking,
commentary and pay respect to her ancestors by bringing
source of drinking water for the Standing Rock
attending meetings, and spreading awareness
them bread.
Sioux Tribe. If the Dakota Access Pipeline were
about the local pipeline and the hazards that
to break in the area of the Missouri River, it
come with it.
would contaminate the water supply for over
How can you help?
Gabriel Wilson ‘20 says his favorite thing about ghost suppers is the way it brings family and friends together. “My favorite thing about the supper is all the food and people coming together to cherish people who have died and everyone is just having a good time,” he said. As fall leaves are dying, it seems the right season to
800,000 people.” The protesters fought back in a peaceful and prayerful way, but did not get the response that they wanted. They were bitten by attack
honor the dead. The Native American and Hispanic stu-
dogs, shot with rubber bullets, maced, arrested
dents are keeping traditions alive that have been around for
without notice, tear gassed, beaten, sprayed
generations.
with water cannons at sub-zero temperatures,
Petition against Pipeline 5 Go to Pipeline 5 protest rallies Tell people about Pipeline 5 Publicly speak about Pipeline 5 Elect officials that want to stop Pipeline 5
The Occidentalist
A
t the end of October and into November, Span-
The Mackinac Straits mimic Standing Rock
Volleyball
Soccer
BNC Bound
The Boys Soccer team made it
Martin and Brenna Tiernan
to the first round of
were sophomores when they
Districts, where they lost 2-0
tied for the BNC Title in
to the cross-town Trojans. In
2015. Falling short last year,
their two previous meetings,
it’s been a year since the
the two teams played to a tie
volleyball team won. This sea-
each time. The Titans won the
son, the volleyball team went
Big North Conference with an
undefeated in the first round
undefeated conference record
of the BNC, but in the second
of 8-0-2. Ethan VanderMolen
round, fell to Cadillac in a
and Tony Gallegos scored in
drawn out battle that went to
the last regular season game
five sets. They tied for first in
against Cadillac.
The Football team went above and beyond the needed six wins to make the playoffs marking up eight out of nine wins. The team’s hard work brought them to their goal of making playoffs. The team beat Midland Dow 49-19, moving them into the second round of the playoffs. The Titans faced off against the Trojans at Thirlby Field on Friday.
Girls Golf
Both the Boys and Girls Cross
The Girls Golf team swung
Country teams qualified for
all the way to a State Cham-
States in the MHSAA Regional
pionship, prompting Student
held at Delta College last Sat-
Senate to unanimously name
urday. The team competed at
the entire team “Athlete of
Finals at the Michigan Inter-
the Week.” Annika Dy earned
national Speedway in Brook-
individual State Champion
lyn, MI, on Saturday Nov.
honors at The Meadows Golf
4. The Girls team finished
Course at Grand Valley State
second overall while the boys
University. The Titans won
finished 3rd. Hannah Smith
the Division I title by 22
‘21 was ranked as the fastest
strokes to finish their season
freshman runner in Michigan.
with BNC, Regional and State
the BNC with Cadillac.
championships.
Fundraising
football through
08
Sports
Seniors Sophia Jenkins, Grace
Cross Country
Football
Teams from both sides of town help bring the community together Parker Neu `20 neupar39@tcapsstudent.net
F
or two football games a season, the stands are packed with colors: red, white, and blue--or pink. When the Bleacher Creatures and West fans
Wearing a jersey to honor Justin Hansen, a fallen soldier who once played on his team, Coach Wooer hugs a Vet on Thirlby Field before the Patriot game. Photo: A. Wack
wore red, the cross-town rivals, the TC Central Trojans, sported blue,
and the Titans got a big win in the sixth annual Patriot game. Three weeks later, the student section of the home team decked out in pink at
back football player Andrew Campbell ‘17 said. Having a close family member
the third-annual cancer awareness themed Pink Game, where the Titans picked
in the Army and being able to shake hands with all the veterans makes the
up another win against Benton Harbor.
game much more personal.
While sports are about winning, both the Patriot and Pink games were more
“[Playing in the Patriot game is] a big, big experience,” Campbell said. “It’s
about bringing the community together to support veterans and those affected
definitely life changing, especially when you’re shaking hands with all the vet-
by cancer.
erans and they’re smiling and some have tears.”
The Patriot game was first envisioned by head football coach Tim Wooer in
Only three weeks later the football team was at it again, only this time they
2012, when he wanted to honor a fallen hero, Justin Hansen, a 2003 Kingsley
were raising money and awareness for cancer. Teammates dressed in the
High School graduate who excelled on the football field for the Stags under
unusual pink uniforms to honor those who have suffered, and instead of their
Wooer. Wooer had the idea for the Patriot game when he found out Hansen had
last name on their back, they had the name of someone they know who was
been killed in battle. He then took his idea to local automotive business Bill
affected by cancer.
Marsh, where they helped develop the event into what it is today. “I always wanted to do a Wounded Warriors game,” Wooer said. “And [Justin’s death] was the last straw. It just motivated me to do something for fallen
“My grandpa died in 2012 of bone marrow cancer,” Campbell said. “He died around October, so my grandma comes up for the Pink game.” Lots of people know someone who has been affected by cancer, but others have been lucky enough to escape this experience.
heroes.” Wooer’s football team raised most of the money through T-shirt sales for the game, but he gave credit to Student Senate. The Patriot game raised around $20,000 and that money was donated to the charity “22 to None,” an organization dedicated to helping soldiers, particularly when dealing with suicide. At the Patriot game, the home team fans always wears red, while
“I am fortunate enough that my family hasn’t had any problems with cancer,” Wooer said. “I think the Pink game hits closer to home with more people.” During a pregame talk with the team, Wooer asked his players to raise their hands if they had lost anyone to cancer. “Almost 100% [of the people raised their hands],” Campbell, who was in the
the away team fans always wears blue. The 9,000 seats in the stands are packed
locker room, said. “Most people have had that experience in their life. Those
with students, parents, and veterans, with a large number wearing the patriotic
types of games have a bigger meaning than football to me and my team.”
shirts that are designed by a student each year. The game starts with football players from both teams crossing the field to shake the hand of a veteran. “My uncle serves in the Army. He’s in the Green Beret. He’s a sniper,” full-
Fundraising through football is more than just raising money and winning the game, it is also about raising awareness and honoring those that have gone through the worst.
TITAN UP Wake is up Sports Recap
Boys Soccer lost to Traverse City Central 2-0 in district play. Girls Volleyball defeated Central in four sets, three-to-one on October 11. Boys Tennis finished 5th at Regionals on Oct. 12. Girls Golf shot a 316 team total on October 12, continuing their streak of their third consecutive Regional title in a row. Football beat Gaylord 42-0 at Gaylord in BNC action on Oct. 13. Volleyball swept Gaylord by winning all three sets during Senior night on Oct. 18. Girls Golf takes first round lead at the MHSAA State Finals with a 311 team total. Anika Dy led the individual field with a three under 69 on Oct. 20. On Fri., Nov. 3, the Varsity Football team played against their biggest and cross-town rival, the TC Trojans, at Thirlby Field to compete for the District Title. Neither of the teams have won a District title, but last year competed in first round, pre-Districts with Trojans taking the win.
Autumn Bockhol ‘20 bockholaut88@tcapsstudent.net
T
he Triton swim team is a cooperative team with athletes from Traverse City Central, Traverse City St. Francis and Traverse City West and as of last year, has re-joined the Coastal Swim and Dive Conference, returning to the league after a nearly 10-year absence. The Coastal Conference was down to three schools — Manistee, Ludington and Fremont — which made it possible for the Tritons Photo: Krysten James. to fill a spot so the team can compete at the conference championship meet. It’s not just the swimmers who are happy to be back in the CWDC - the dive team would gain some much deserved recognition for their hard work. Diver Darby Drake, ‘20 knows what’s at stake. “The target for this year’s swim team is to win conference for the second year in a row, and have a couple swimmers and divers to go to bigger meets, like states,” Drake said. “I’ve been diving for little over a year.” Drake knows how difficult the diving is, the physical agility and strength it takes to get the team where it wants to be. The International Hardest Sport Ranking Committee (IHSRC) has acknowledged that swim-
ming is the hardest sport because of the cardiovascular expectations based on the “complex movements” that are involved. Drake noticed that many observers don’t understand just how hard the sport is. “I think it’s a sport because once you try it and see, you’ll understand how difficult it really is and it’s not as easy as you think,” Drake said. “A lot of people don’t realize how much work goes into the sport and how much training it takes.” Despite the difficulties of diving, Drake puts all of her effort into the sport. “I really love diving because it is so similar to gymnastics and I loved tumbling so much. Diving is the same aspect just going into the water instead,” Drake said. Last year, the first year back in the CWDC, the team made it to States. Three state qualifiers from last year are back to try and make it to States again. Julia Brunner, finished seventh in the 100-yard butterfly last year, Returning divers, Drake and junior Jade Turner planned on competing at States, too. The team made it Regionals in mid-November, and will head to States if they qualify in the top 12 teams.
The Occidentalist
The Boys Cross Country finishes the Petoskey race in first, while the Girls Cross Country finish second on Oct. 3
Resubmerging into action