North Star March 2017

Big Sean’s new album “I Decided.” is out now. Check out our review of it on page 3!

NHS students pose for a photo at the blood drive.

Congratulations to the winner of Mr. Crusader 2017, Zach Craig ‘17!

3 Features 4 Entertainment 7

Reviews

March 20, 2017

Volume XLI Issue V

DeVos confirmed as Secretary of Education

BY Baylee bowman ‘17 Photo Editor

Photo by commons.wikimedia.org

Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos

Donald Trump nominated Michigan native and school voucher advocate Betsy DeVos as his secretary of Education, and Congress confirmed the appointment last month.

DeVos is married to Grand Rapids billionaire Richard DeVos. DeVos said that it’s ‘possible’ that her family has contributed $200 million to the Republican Party. When Bernie Sanders asked, “Would DeVos have been chosen to be secretary of Education without those $200 million in donations?”

DeVos responded that she thought she would have been. She added that she looks forward to working with both representative parties.

According to many sources, DeVos has no education degree or teaching experience. She has never attended a public school, nor has she ever sent her children to one. DeVos does

support for-profit education, as her family lead the failed effort to institute vouchers in Michigan.

English teacher Wayne Cook said, “She is wildly unqualified and it would be the same as letting someone operate on you if they didn’t have a medical degree. You wouldn’t let them do it.”

DeVos says that she is in favor of holding to the current timeline for implementation of the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), which was signed by President Barack Obama on December 10, 2015.

During hearings before her confirmation, DeVos, asked about guns, said that there should be guns in Wyoming schools due to potential grizzly bear attacks.

When asked about this comment, Carter Oselett ’17 said, “I feel that Secretary DeVos’ comment is laughable, to an extent. That scenario of a bear entering a school is extremely bizarre and unlikely. She

should be more worried about actual gun violence in schools and make sure that every student in public schools feels protected from actual criminals and threats, not grizzly bears wandering into halls.”

Secretary DeVos said that her department’s Office for Civil Rights remains committed to investigating all claims of discrimination, bullying, and harassment against “vulnerable” LGBT students in the nation’s schools.

As the education secretary for a few weeks, she has made a few gaffes on Twitter and during press conferences. DeVos thinks that she is being unfairly attacked.

Oselett said, “Yes, I do support her because she is the Secretary of Education, and I want to see her succeed. Although, I didn’t support her at first, and I wish President Trump provided a more qualified nominee, I now hope that she does well, and that our nation’s public schools prosper.”

Executive order institutes travel ban

BY Ben sassin ‘17

appeals court believes that the order should be edited in a way that foreigners with visas would be able to come to the In the month of February, President Donald Trump country. The problem is that the Ninth Appeals Court does signed an executive order banning people from certain not support the order; therefore the President’s advisors countries from coming to the United States. According to have been fighting in the courts to get the travel ban back Fox News, the original order included Iraq, Syria, Iran, up and running.

Sudan, Libya, Somalia and Yemen.

Recently, President Trump has revised the ban The order was established because Presto get it out of the court system. In order to do ident Trump wants to protect America so, Trump has agreed to edit the order to allow from radical Islamic terrorists and ISIS. visa holders access into the country. But the The theory is that terrorists are blendcourts still have to agree on the proposal. ing in with refugees and coming to this Keith Brown ‘17 said, “The government should country to do harm. It was amended later take a step back and research the countries that to remove Iraq from the list. have the most terrorism and ban them instead of Many people across the nation seem to looking at certain specific countries.” be bothered by this because they think All in all, there has been a great divide among President Trump is singling out Muslims.

U.S. citizens about how President Trump has In the places listed, there is a majority of handled foreign policy. Citizens are either for or Photo from whitehouse.gov Muslim people, but there are areas afagainst, and there haven’t been many people who President Donald Trump fected by ISIS and radical Islam. are undecided, says Fox News. Some people argue Ryan Lentz ‘17 said, “I don’t think that it is bad to let refugees into the country bePresident Trump is being racist but just trying to figure out cause there is no established government where they come ways to keep terrorists out of the country.” from and if the government cannot establish who they Steven Williamson ’18 said, “People should be grateful are, why allow them into the country, said The Washingthat we have a president that cares about protecting our ton Post. The people who argue against it say it is morally country.” wrong, and if refugees from those countries need help, then Temporarily the travel ban has been on hold because the the U.S. should be able to help.

Sports Editor

Photo from cia.gov

Chinese students visited LCN in February

BY Chris Calabrese ‘17 Reporter

Traveling 7,000 miles to an unfamiliar country and living with a family you have never met before may not be appealing to everyone; however, this has been reality for a select few Chinese exchange students.

These exchange students shadowed select exemplary students of LCN for two weeks in February to broaden their educational horizons in hopes of attending an American university in the future.

Brianna Lupo ’17 was granted the opportunity to guide one of the exchange students, Bariel.

Lupo said, “Having the opportunity to host Bariel made me realize how difficult it is to come into something where you don’t know anyone and don’t know the language very well and it opened my eyes to the cultural differences.”

Even though there were some differences, the two shared an interest in

cats, the television show “Criminal Minds”, reading, and painting. Although Bariel returned home, Lupo believes they will stay in contact via email as much as possible.

Associate Principal Kim Rawski, who is in charge of the foreign exchange program, explained that Bariel’s journey began in Nantong, China, a city near Shanghai. From Nantong, she traveled 5,600 miles to Vancouver, B.C., where she stayed for two weeks at an exchange school with her fellow Chinese classmates before making the six-hour flight to Macomb, MI, to attend LCN for two weeks.

During the first week here, Bariel and her peers studied U.S. government with Scott Boice and Pottery with Patty Willoughby in an effort to expose them to new classes that are not offered in China.

In addition to the exposure the students received in the classrooms of LCN, five of the students took

the ACT in hopes of scoring high enough to get into an accredited university during their senior year of school so they can further their academic and professional careers in the United States.

After they left, the students embarked on another adventure in Los Angeles, California, where they visited Disneyland and Universal Studios with their new exchange school.

Bariel enjoyed her time as an exchange student at LCN; her favorite class was Forensic Science because of her favorite television show, “Criminal Minds.”

While some exchange students aspire to attend a college or university in the United States, Bariel said, “I will stay home and go to school to be a doctor in China; it is not as good a job as being a doctor in America, but I still would like to do it.”

Bariel, a visitor from Nantong, China, shadows Brianna Lupo ‘17 during her science class.

Photo from Brianna Lupo ‘17

2 | Opinions Editorial

March 20, 2017

Is DeVos the best choice for Ed. Secretary?

Betsy DeVos has recently been appointed secretary of the U.S. Department of Education, one of the most controversial nominees that President Donald Trump has put forth so far. The senate was split 50/50 when voting on DeVos, and Vice President Mike Pence had to be the tiebreaker, voting in favor of DeVos. One of the biggest issues with DeVos is that she has no background in education, and putting her in charge of the entire country’s education could be a very big mistake.

Many believe that law makers could have picked a candidate more qualified for the job than DeVos, someone who has actually worked in public education.

“If the idea was to select a woman from Michigan, there are many talented women who could’ve been chosen.

These are women who are already providing the leadership and knowledge to help children achieve their potential,” Marianne Yared McGuire, former member of the state board of education, said in a Detroit Free Press story. She went on to talk about all of the potential women from Michigan who would have been a better option for the position.

Even though DeVos has no true experience in education, she still was involved in helping children with their

education. She spent a lot of time and money on getting underprivileged kids vouchers that would allow them to attend private schools. She believes that all children learn differently, so they should have different choices on where to go to school, whether it’s public, charter, or private.

Former member of the Michigan State Board of Education Gary Wolfram said in a Free Press story, “I was on the State Board of Education in Michigan for six years and never found a greater friend of Michigan children.”

DeVos is a big advocate for charter schools and privatization. She also pushes school of choice because she believes that parents and students students should be able to decide where they go to school. If someone wants to switch districts or go to a private school for a better education, then they should have the opportunity to. However, charter schools are not the best option and many public school advocates have become alarmed that she may want to privatize schooling around the country.

Stephen Henderson from the Detroit Free Press said, “A true advocate for children would look at the statistics for charter versus traditional public schools in Michigan... Instead, DeVos and her family have spent millions advocating for the state’s cap on charter schools to be lifted, so more

operators can open it, and if they choose, profit from more charters.”

Libby Nelson from Vox News said, “She will wield far less power than the leaders of more important departments, such as the treasury secretary or secretary of defense. She won’t even have that much control over American education, since most decisions about schools are still made at the state and local level.”

DeVos understands that the states have power over their own education systems and that she will not be in complete control over what they decide for their own state.

Betsy DeVos has been one of the most controversial cabinet choices of the new administration. She has many plans for the future and modernization of schools, yet these plans are not the most popular amongst school staff and parents. Some believe she will be great for our country’s education, and others believe that she was the worst decision that could have been made. Only time will tell if she will be a success or if she will ruin our country’s education system.

An open letter

To biased news media

BY Eric Ostling ‘17 Reporter

The broadcast news media in the United States has become a Cult of Personality for believers of a certain set of ideals to obtain their ideas from, and it got this way through using specific biases to attract a loyal audience.

The condition this creates is called the Hostile Media Effect, and it does serious harm to the nation by swaying opinions in elections, challenging the verdicts of juries during court cases, or even inducing an ad-hominem effect on viewers to serve the agenda of someone other than the media.

The Journalists Code of Ethics states that “The journalist should do his/her best to obtain information from all possible sources, to make sure it is complete, truthful and unbiased. Information which may offend or humiliate a person should be checked especially carefully.”

So why does the mainstream broadcast media of the United States rarely fact-check their information, or try to avoid so much controversy on hot topics? Fox News, for example, has had their news coverage rated by Politifact to verify the truthfulness of their broadcasts. The results are that out of 167 comments made by Fox News hosts, 37 were rated to have either been true or mostly true - while the rest were judged varying degrees of false.

This is extremely dangerous, as Fox is one of the most-viewed television stations for broadcast media. When Fox is covering a story, it is important that they make sure their facts are correct This argument may be considered a fallacy by some, but it has been proven that media outlets are prone to lean one way depending on the topic, and opinions do make it through in the presentation of a story.

During the 2012 presidential campaign, Fox News had several broadcasts analyzed by a researcher from the Pew Research Center. It was found that Fox News covered Barack Obama in a negative way 46 percent of the time, while covering Mitt Romney with praise 68 percent of the time. CNN also covered Obama in a negative way the majority of the time; although, they also covered Mitt Romney in a negative way nearly 72 percent of the time.

News media is allowed to be opinionated in their coverage of stories, but it is irresponsible to be this biased towards either side. By adding so much political commentary during stories, it is easy to sway the attention of the public in a big way.

Guy vs Girl Code Go back to your ex?

BY Matt Alanskas ‘17

BY Olivia Frank ‘19

The idea of breaking up is prevalent in most high schoolers’ relationships. Along with this is the idea of getting back together with an ex. Many high school-aged students are unsure of whether getting back together with their former boyfriend or girlfriend is accepted among their peers. I am here to reassure high schoolers that you can get back together with your ex, and that most times this “break” makes both partners realize that they truly want to be with their boyfriend or girlfriend.

Break-ups can be a big deal for many people in high school.

Because many complications may come with these relationships, high schoolers may resort to a split to allow time to focus on their own lives. As this is a very large part in a teenager’s life, time for yourself is key. If your relationship is taking away from your personal time, being single may be an option until you can balance your time. Although this may not be the right time for you and another person, they still could be your Mr. or Mrs. Right in the end.

With this time by themselves, many come to realize they do truly care about their ex and want to give the relationship another try. No matter the reason for the ending of the relationship, giving it another go can either show you they are the one or reassure that you guys will never work.

With my own personal experiences, I can assure you that getting back together with your ex or someone you used to like will only help you in the end. I have been on both spectrums. My current relationship is still going due to a “break”. With this break, I had the time to gather my thoughts and truly think about what I wanted in the end.

After being separated for about a month, I ended up back with my current girlfriend and found this was what I wanted.

On the other end, getting back with a girl I thought was the one proved to me that the relationship was not for me. Every time we got back together, we either fought or it did not feel the same. This is why I say after a second break, most people should know that the relationship may be best kept at a friendship.

It is always your decision whether or not you want to give a relationship a second try.

If you feel there is something special between you and someone else, then giving the relationship another try may work out for the best.

Although the saying “third time is a charm” may be true for some situations, relationships should probably be settled after two tries.

You hear about it all the time, couples breaking up and getting back together… and breaking up and yet again, GETTING BACK TOGETHER! This signals to me how some couples are blind to one another’s faults.

They cannot see that something isn’t working, which is why they broke up in the first place!

Couples breaking up and getting back together is purposeless. Here is why: if you end a relationship, clearly there was a reason as to why it ended. For some couples, instead of staying apart to “solve” issues, they just jump back together, solving nothing.

For example, if you and your partner break up because a lack of trust and you go back to that person, what have they learned? Trust is crucial in a relationship.

It’s difficult to fabricate and even more difficult to put back together once the trust has been damaged. If anything, it’s letting them think it’s okay to continue doing the same things, because you’re going to take them back each time. You may still have feelings for this person, which can be hard to ignore if the feelings are solid, although it doesn’t change that you are not as well-matched as you first thought. What I am preaching is that if you let your ex go once, let him or her go forever.

In theory, ending a relationship and getting back together just to end it again is a big waste of time. Instead of wasting your own time, don’t get back together! If you really cannot distance yourself from the person, be their friend. You most likely have a good deal of stuff in common and are comfortable with each other, so what is wrong with just being friends? What was the point of ending the relationship in the first place? Like I said: purposeless.

Whatever had caused the relationship to fail the first time around will likely make a return the next time. You may think your partner has “changed” or “learned”, but that is unlikely, in reality.

Most, if not all, couples end relationships for beneficial reasons. For example, when you glue something together, you have the option to take it apart. It may result in the paper ripping away from the glue, but when you peel it off and try to glue it back together again, the paper is still on where you had ripped it off, creating a surface that is rough and not smooth like before. My point is: it’ll never end up perfectly back together, just like getting back together with someone.

All in all, ending a relationship and getting back together is a no from me.

Online Editor

Reporter

North Star Staff: The staff of The North Star are members of Quill and Scroll Society, Michigan Interscholastic Press Association and National Scholastic Press Association.

Editor-in-chief Chloe Acker News Editor Gavin McHugh Feature Editor Riley Garrett Entertainment Editor Renee Prvulov Reviews Editor Rachel Kircus Focus Editor Chloe Acker Sports Editor Ben Sassin Opinions Editor Shayna Schroeder Copy Editor Kayla Chattinger Photo Editor Baylee Bowman Online Editor Matt Alanskas Business Manager Connor Dailey Photographers Gina Hofbauer, Morgan Sputa Reporters Chris Calabrese, Autumn Frieze, Madelyn Cooper, Olivia Frank, Delaney Nichols, Eric Ostling, Ryley Splitt, Amanda Tomlinson, Alexis Zak Adviser Kim Kozian The staff of the North Star accepts letters to the editor with feedback on how we express our opinion in this paper. All letters must be signed. The staff also accepts future ideas in room 213 or Ms. Kozian’s mailbox in the main office.

The viewpoints expressed in The North Star are those of the editorial newspaper staff, but do not necessarily reflect those of the administration and faculty of LCN. Visit Ms. Kozian’s web page, www.lc-ps. org/Schools/LCHSNorth, for editorial policies and procedures.

Reviews | 3

March 20, 2017

TH1RTEEN R3ASONS WHY

BY ALEXIS ZAK ‘17 Reporter

Photo by Publishers Weekly

AUTHOR BIO

Jay Asher‘s debut YA novel, Thirteen Reasons Why, has appeared regularly on the New York Times bestsellers list for the past 10 years. In 2017, it will be released as a Netflix original series.

His second YA novel, The Future of Us, was coauthored with Printz-honor winner Carolyn Mackler, and his third, What Light, was released last year. guages. jayasher.blogspot.com

TH1RTEEN R3ASONS WHY is a suspenseful and tragic book by Jay Asher.

The book is about a girl named Hannah Baker who committed suicide. After Hannah’s death, a boy named Clay Jensen receives a box that contains seven cassette tapes with 13 different stories. The tapes recorded by Hannah before her death were given to 13 people. Each one explains why that particular individual was somehow responsible for her death.

Thirteen reasons why you should read TH1RTEEN R3ASONS WHY: 1. Reading in general is proven to reduce stress and improve memory.

2. The book is written like no other book. Instead of arranged in chapters, it is told by the cassette tapes.

3. It increases awareness of mental illness by explaining how bullying could lead to depression and anxiety which could then cause suicide.

4. The book is intriguing.

Every “chapter” leaves you wanting more.

5. You get to read the book through two different perspectives, Clay’s and Hannah’s.

6. The book itself is not very lengthy, so lacking time to read should not be a factor.

7. It is very relatable.

TH1RTEEN R3ASONS WHY deals with issues that

all teenagers face at one time or another.

8. You will not be able to put the book down.

9. You begin to understand the snowball effect: How one wrong action can lead to another, and how that could potentially hurt someone.

10. It is mysterious and will leave you on the edge of your seat.

11. It shows how your words and actions can negatively or positively impact someone’s life.

12. It is eye-opening.

13. It will likely increase your desire to read other books.

Even if you are not a book lover, this book may turn you into one.

Photo by Google Books

March Favorites

BY GINA HOFBAUER ‘19 Photographer

Hunter Ludwig ’18 Favorite movie: “Finding Nemo” Favorite TV show: “Shameless” Favorite song/ album: Any song by Kodak Black Favorite restaurant: Olive Garden Favorite app: Snapchat

Thomas Monte ’20 Favorite movie: “The Blind Side” Favorite TV show: “Friends” Favorite song/ album: N/A Favorite restaurant: Buffalo Wild Wings Favorite app: Snapchat

Photo by Gina Hofbauer ‘19

Photo by Gina Hofbauer ‘19

Photo by Gina Hofbauer ‘19

Bailey Taylor ’18 Favorite movie: “The Outsiders” Favorite TV show: “Grey’s Anatomy” Favorite song/ album: “Outskirts of Heaven” by Craig Campbell Favorite restaurant: Mongolian Barbeque Favorite app: Snapchat

Photo by Gina Hofbauer ‘19

Evan Latham ’19 Favorite movie: “Star Wars: Empire Strikes Back” Favorite TV show: “Game of Thrones” Favorite song/album: “Brand New” by Taylor Gang Favorite restaurant: The Melting Pot Favorite app: Snapchat

Madison Turner ’19 Favorite movie: “Finding Nemo” Favorite TV show: “The Office” Favorite song/ album: N/A Favorite restaurant: Panera Bread Favorite app: Twitter Photo by Gina Hofbauer ‘19

Photo by Gina Hofbauer ‘19

Phillip Hammer ’17 Favorite movie: “Back to the Future” Favorite TV show: “How I Met Your Mother” Favorite song/ album: “Hotel California” by the Eagles Favorite restaurant: Popeye’s Favorite app: Uber

Bailey Williams ‘17 Favorite movie: “Step Brothers” Favorite TV show: “Shameless” Favorite song/album: N/A Favorite restaurant: Black Rock Favorite app: Sound Cloud Photo by Gina Hofbauer ‘19

Bubble Tea take over

BY DELANEY NICHOLS ‘18 Reporter

Bubble tea is a Taiwanese tea-based drink invented in Taichung in the 1980s. It is different than normal tea because it is usually mixed with fruit or milk and tapioca balls or fruit jelly.

New to the area, Kawaii Bubble Tea is located on Garfield and Hall in Clinton Township. It is open from 12 p.m. to 9 p.m. everyday except Sunday; on Sunday it is open from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m.

The sizes are small ($3.50), medium ($4.50), and large ($5). Also, the

shop provides a variety of fruit tea flavors, milk tea flavors, and popping boba flavor so any drink can be personalized for the customer. I ordered a small vanilla milk tea with strawberry bobas, and I was pleasantly surprised with how good it tasted. I have had bubble tea before, just not this flavor.

The staff was friendly and helped with any questions customers had. To make it easier for first timers, they should streamline their directions up on the

board. Also, the shop is very bland, it doesn’t make one want to sit down and hang out in the lobby. The inside is very white with pops of bright, fluorescent orange.

Lastly, if one was to enjoy this shop, they offer a rewards program; after 10 buys, you get a free one.

All in all, Kawaii Bubble Tea is an amazing tea shop, and I would highly recommend it. From their flavor variety to their hospitality, this shop will definitely grow to become more popular and maybe even a hangout spot for high school and college students.

NORTH STAR RATINGS Amazing!

Thumbs up Photo by Delaney Nichols ‘18

Kawaii Bubble Tea on Hall and Garfield has a huge list of bubble tea flavors and add-ins!

“I Decided.” This is an amazing album

BY Rachel kircus ‘17 Reviews Editor

Photo by Los Angeles Times

Detroit’s very own Big Sean recently came out with a new album titled “I Decided.” Listening to most of the tracks off the album, I can now see why it is so high up on the charts.

“I Decided.” includes 14 tracks, such as, “Jump Out The Window,” “Owe Me,” “Inspire Me,” and “No Favors” featuring Eminem.

Sean describes life struggles,

money, and love in this album. Even if you aren’t a big fan of Sean’s, his lyrics are very relatable and will have you singing along in no time.

“Moves,” one of Sean’s first singles released off the album, was ranked gold within one week of its release, and was number one on iTunes for two weeks straight, which is quite impressive. With his inspiring and real life lyrics, he has

gained much respect from his listeners and even nonlisteners, making him a very likeable artist in this day and age. “I Decided.” was ranked on the charts till this day even though it had been released over a month ago.

I recommend giving “I Decided.” a listen and get to know the meaning behind some of the songs because you will most likely end up relating and loving it!

Not the worst

Meh

Photo by Los Angeles Times

Don’t bother

4 | Feature

Preparing for the SAT

phone. There are the students’ many different SAT testing ability. preparation apps, These classes are With April right around such as SAT Word normally free the corner, many students of the Day and SAT and are proven state- wide will be taking Up. The apps are to increase the the SAT. The SAT is schedused to target the students’ odds at uled for April 11 and 12. subjects that one scoring big. At The test is an entrance does poorly in.

LCN, students exam used by a majority If students can take a class of colleges in the United need even more during their juStates. The SAT is designed help, they can hire nior year called to test strengths and weaka tutor. It is not College and nesses. Students will be test- necessary, but it is Career. In that ed on math, evidence-based proven to increase class, students Photo by Kim Kozian reading and writing, and students’ scores. are just taught Baldivia-Zarate ‘18 and Jack Delor ‘18 work on an SAT test an essay. With this in mind, Tutors can be quite Charles the material on the preparation packet in English 11 class. students should be prepared. pricey but the results SAT. Also, stuThe score essentially sets the will be shown. The tutors dents get the chance to take before the test. I feel like bar for the future. cram crucial information the SAT for free before the it is the best option,” said There are many different into the students’ head in a rest of their classmates.

Sydney Meyer ’18. ways that one can prepare short period of time.

“Students should take Students can also seek out for the SAT, apart from “I decided that I was help at school. Some schools this class if they are serious in school. One way is to going to get a tutor, so that have an SAT prep class that about choosing their own download apps on a mobile I felt more prepared right college in the future. This solely works to strengthen

BY Alexis Zak ‘17 Reporter

Need CS hours?

Here are some ideas

BY Riley Garrett ‘18

class will prepare you for the SAT in a way that most other students will not be.

This class is proven to boost scores, comparing the kids who didn’t take this class to the kids that did take this class,” said College and Career teacher Jason Hubbard.

“I feel somewhat prepared to take on the SAT in a few months. This class has helped me feel more secure and confident,” Amanda Zonca ’18.

The best way to prepare for the SAT is to be calm and relax. Getting a good night’s rest and eating a good breakfast could make or break your test score. Remember that you can always retake the SAT if you do not do well the first time.

LCN hosts annual Blood Drive

Feature Editor

With the end of the school year approaching fast, and the seniors’ last day approaching even faster, it’s important to take in account how many hours of community service one already has under his or her belt.

In order to graduate, one must complete a total 40 hours of community service and turn them in by May 1 of their graduating year.

Even if those 40 hours needed to graduate are already completed, one can receive the Presidential Award for completing 100 hours or an Honor Cord for 80 hours.

Some good opportunities for those seniors who are cramming to get those 40 hours, or any student trying to avoid last-minute hours are: •Reading at the Anna Mae Burdi Center from 3-5:30 p.m. Sign up in the Counseling Office for more information.

•Volunteering at the New Haven Food Pantry any time. Contact Cynthia Goward at 42-1 District Court in Romeo (586) 3078870.

•Helping out at the Salvation Army in Mt. Clemens at any time. Call (586) 6794712.

•Completing various office tasks, such as clerical work and data entry, at Habitat for Humanity. Call (586) 263-1540 or visit their website, www.macombhabitat. org.

•Volunteer at the Metropolitan Beach Nature Center. Call (586) 463-4332.

•Volunteer with animals at the Humane Society (586) 731-9210.

•Helping with various activities at Chesterfield Parks and Rec. Call 949-0400, ext.4, for a list of opportunities and the application form or visit www.chesterfieldtwp. org and click on Parks and Recreation.

More opportunities can be found at lc-ps.org under L’Anse Creuse High SchoolNorth’s Community Service page.

Photo from Autumn Frieze ‘17

Members of NHS help out at the blood drive.

BY Autumn Frieze ‘17 Reporter

When someone donates blood, he/she has the potential to save up to three lives. Fifty students at LCN donated their time, and blood, to the American Red Cross on Friday, February 24. Considering every two seconds in the U.S. someone needs blood, according to RedCross.org, LCN certainly made a positive impact in the community.

LCN’s National Honor Society hosts the blood drive annually, and just like every year in the past, this year was a success. Jim Ekdahl and Sara St. Aubin, sponsors of the Honor Society, along with the NHS officers, organized the event and assured it ran smoothly.

Officer Darrin Carly ’17 was the man of the hour after he had spent weeks coordinating the event.

Carly said, “I love making a difference and giving back to the community.”

Ekdahl and St. Aubin are also just as passionate about leaving an impact. St. Aubin spoke highly of the event, “Everyone here is saving lives and benefiting those

who aren’t as healthy as turned away this year for they are.” such reasons. Meliah Tinsley There are many precau’17 was one of them, tions “I had when it too low comes of iron, to doand am nating pretty blood bummed; to however, ensure I’m still everyhappy I one intried and volved am able is safe, to help espeout in the cially event.” because Dothe donating nated blood is amount a selfless of act, and blood students is one donated whole purely pint. out of Comkindness, mon being Photo by Autumn Frieze ‘17 reasons Monica Dostert ‘18 rests while donating blood. a great for a example donor to others. to be turned away from Victoria Skoney ’18 pargiving blood include iron ticipated in the blood drive deficiency, high pulse, low with great humility. Skoney weight, or recent piercings. said, “I love knowing I can Quite a few students were impact people this directly

and personally. I helped in saving a life.”

Aidan Kushel ’17 also donated, and expressed, “It really wasn’t bad at all, and to think those 30 minutes helped someone not as fortunate as me is really amazing.”

After donating, most students felt no different.

The process may cause some fatigue, and strenuous activity is not recommended for 24 hours, but overall it causes no major stress on the body.

Monica Dostert ’18 said right after donating, “I feel perfectly fine; it was a lot easier than I thought.”

As for as who will receive the blood, Karen R., phlebotomist of the Red Cross, said, “It goes all over the metro Detroit area. Hospitals, clinics, treatment centers, elderly, children, cancer patients. . .Red Cross provides for such a variety of people.”

Associate principal Chris Stanley added, “What an incredible example of one more opportunity for us as a school to give back to our amazing community.”

Contacting the North Star: @LCNNewspaper

@LCNNewspaper

LCNNewspaper

@LCNNewspaper

L’Anse Creuse High School - North 23700 21 Mile Road Macomb, MI 48042 (586) 493-5270 Northstar.np@gmail.com

Find the North Star’s website: www.lcnnewspaper.com

March 20, 2017

Life Chatts With Chattinger Taking a gap year after high school

BY Kayla Chattinger ‘17 Copy Editor

Debt! Stress! Homework!

Finding yourself! Directly after graduating high school, young adults are being suffocated by these responsibilities from the necessity of attending college. No worries, struggling students, there is chance at relief: a gap year.

After 12 years of learning, homework, and socializing with people you may hate, a gap year is a great opportunity to find yourself before diving back into studies.

Taking a gap year has been popular in Europe for many years, but it has just begun to rise in the U.S. since 2006, according to Forbes. It has become so popular, even the forty-fourth president of the United States’ daughter, Malia Obama, took a gap year before attending Harvard University.

High school graduates, especially those who plan on attending graduate school, have found themselves overwhelmed with the thought of 4-12 more years of school ahead. If you feel this way, maybe a gap year is an option for you.

It may be scary to think of holding off your future to “play” around for an entire year, but it has actually been shown to be beneficial. According to the American Gap Association, “Universities are reporting an increase in GPA, greater engagement in campus life, and an increased likelihood that students will graduate on time.’”

Imagine all the activities you could inquire about during a year off from responsibilities. One could see the world, experiment with different jobs in different fields, volunteer/ help others, or make new friends. There are even “gap year” programs one can find online, so if you need direction, it’s available.

A gap year gives young adults the ability to grow into themselves before they are forced into starting the rest of their lives.

A year off also gives students the chance to enhance their resumes. A year is a lot of time to network and try different careers. This way, when they enter college they have a better idea of who they are and what they want to be. Employers recognize this, and appreciate the experience they may have gained in the field during the gap year.

Not only do gap year students have the chance to feel out different jobs, but they can make an income doing so.

A year of working and saving money could mean one could go to a more expensive college or start off education debtfree, if he/she wants.

My fear had always been that I would love the classroom-free life too much, and never return to college.

However, the American Gap Association reports that, “Students who take a gap year are 90 percent likely to return to university within one year.”

Hence, if you have been contemplating if college is the next step, or if you’re not ready to dive into your future full force right after high school, a gap year is an option. It also could be the greatest opportunity any young adult could ever take advantage of.

Focus | 5

March 20, 2017

nto break Make Spring Break in Macomb fun

BY Autumn Frieze ‘17 Reporter

Daytona, Panama City, Cancun, Riviera Maya…

Macomb?

Although it may not be everyone’s dream destination, it’s possible to make spring break in Macomb fun, interesting, and productive. It’s easy to feel like EVERYONE is going somewhere cool, but a majority

of LCN students are staying home, and making the most of it.

Not every senior is going to be partying it up in Mexico this spring break; many are staying home and making it work.

Rachel Rhoney ’17 is racking up hours at her job at Famous Footwear. Rhoney said, “I’m

saving up my money for important things, like college. Or I prefer to spend money on a trip when prices aren’t so high, so I might use the money I make to go to California or something.”

Saving up a lot of money is an extremely useful spring break for working toward goals and college funds.

But also, spring break in

Macomb does not need to be spent just working! Michael Torres ’18 has high hopes for spring break at home.

Torres said, “I’m going to be adventurous; for example, I’m getting a tattoo. People can have parties, or drive around the area and explore new places, maybe downtown Mt. Clemens. It’s whatever you make

of it!”

A great spring break can also be made simple. Corben Symons ‘19 believes spring break can be memorable by just hanging out with close friends.

Symons said, “I plan on just being with my friends every day. Those times are the best.”

Emily Frederick ‘20 is on

the same page. Frederick recommended, “Just spend quality time with your friends and family, and do things that make you happy. Spend time outdoors, by the water, playing sports, and embrace the fresh air.”

Don’t be too bummed about staying home for spring break, and make the most of it!

How to get the perfect beach bod in no time

BY MAdelyn Cooper ‘17 Reporter

Day by day Michigan gets closer to warm weather and sunshine. While many people make a New Year’s resolution to hit the gym more consistently, very few stick to it for long. If you haven’t spent all winter working on your beach bod, don’t freak out; there’s still time.

Obtaining the perfect beach bod quickly is not as impossible as it sounds. All it takes is hard work, determination, and healthy eating.

First, set a goal and figure out what it’s going to take to achieve it. Make a schedule of what days and times to hit the gym or go for a run. Plan out what part of the body needs focus to help reach your goal.

Next, make sure all meals are healthy. Do not eat any fast food, junk food, or candy. Try to eat lots of fruits, veggies, and protein. Make sure to drink a ton of water to al-

ways stay hydrated. According to Linda Melone on Health. com, it is best to eat meals in small portions throughout the day rather than a huge meal in one setting. Doing so helps boost your metabolism and food digests better in small amounts. The worst thing to do is stop eating, so never starve yourself; believe it or not, you actually gain weight that way.

Finally, stick to it! Do not slack off or get lazy. Consistency is key. The only way to reach your goal is to give it everything.

Self-discipline is probably the biggest part. Being able to keep a steady workout schedule, good eating habits, and sticking to a routine can be difficult. If it’s difficult to selfdiscipline, finding someone who motivates and pushes you to keep going can be really beneficial. Both people begin to motivate and keep each other on track. Workout buddies are great!

Some Crusaders shared their secrets on what they do to

achieve their rockin’ beach bod.

Dylan Mansour ’17 said, “I go to the gym every chance I get, maybe three to four times a week, and I try to eat healthy… although it doesn’t always happen.”

Many students agree that cutting out junk food is the hardest part.

“I have exercise equipment in my basement that I use rather than going to the gym because it’s free and convenient,” said Antonio Molnar ‘18.

Exercise can be done wherever, whenever, and it does not have to cost money.

Exercise is more than just a nice body. According to an article on authoritynutrition.com, working out releases endorphins in the brain and improves one’s mood and overall mental state. You’ll notice yourself in a happier state and be able to sleep better at night.

Follow these tips, and get out a swim suit because a nice beach bod will be obtained in no time!

ng on Spring Break?

9 Compiled by: Gina Hofbauer ‘19

Kristian Adamczyk ’17 Spring Break destination: Fort Myers, Florida How many are attending: A group of eight Time spent on vacation: Eight days Most excited for: The weather

Randy Golasinski ’17 Spring Break destination: California How many are attending: Three Time spent on vacation: Two weeks Most excited for: To go to the Santa Monica Pier

Julius Stoutermire ’18 Spring Break destination: Miami, Florida How many are attending: About 10 Time spent on vacation: Four days Most excited for: Relaxing on the beach

6 | Sports

SPRING SPORTS PREVIEW

BY gavin mchugh ‘17 News Editor

Photos by Gavin McHugh

Boys Golf: Steven Wehby ‘18 “I’m expecting that we’ll go to states this year. I think this season will be better than our last one.”

Baseball: Brendan Peck ‘17 “I feel like we’re going to have a pretty good season.

I’m expecting that we’ll make it far into districts and I’m hoping we’ll try to go for the state title.”

Girls Tennis: Madison Patrus ‘17 “I’m excited to see how we do with our new coach this year. I’m hoping that we will not only do well but also have a fun season. This is my last season playing for the school team and I’m going to try to make this season as fun as I can.”

Girls Track: Karenna Duffey ‘18 “We have four new coaches this year, so that should help with numbers. The team has a lot of returners who were injured last year and are healthy now, so I’m expecting our team to do well this season. I just won the indoor state final and my goal is to win another one.”

C

March 20, 2017

onnor’s atch

The rebuild of the century

BY Connor dailey ‘17 Business manager

Lacrosse: Brendin Laporte ‘17 “I’m expecting this season to have a good outcome.

I think we’re going to put up some points.”

Softball: Piper Roth ‘18 “Our goal as a team for this season is to have a winning record. Personally, I’m going to be back to playing how I used to.”

Girls Soccer: Tori Janas ‘17 “I think we’re going to do pretty well. We lost a lot of seniors on the team, but we have a lot of good upperclassmen. This is my last season, so I’m trying to do my best.

Boys Track: Thomas Michno ‘17 “Our team this year is kind of young. We don’t really have a foundation and that’s an issue. There aren’t many seniors on it right now, so we are just going to see how we do and build off of that. We are going to race what we can and go from there.”

Crusaders to play at the next level

BY Baylee Bowman ‘17 Photo Editor

Photos by Gina Hofbauer ‘19, Morgan Sputa ‘19, and Kaiser Studios

Kelly Klebba ’17 – Softball at Northwood University, Midland, MI How long have you been playing softball?

“I’ve been playing for 12 years.”

What made you pick this college?

“I picked Northwood because it has always been my dream school, and it’s a really good business school.”

Were you offered any scholarship?

“Yes, I was offered scholarships.”

Timmy Murphy ’17 – Soccer at Bluffton University, Bluffton, Ohio How long have you been playing soccer?

“I’ve played for nine years.”

What made you pick this college?

“I chose Bluffton University because of the campus and my major.”

Were you offered any scholarships?

“No.”

Marissa Tatti ’17 – Volleyball at Macomb Community College, Macomb, MI How long have you been playing volleyball?

“I’ve been playing volleyball since I was in seventh grade.”

What made you pick this college?

“I was already going to Macomb so I could get my general classes out of the way, and I figured why not play another year?”

Were you offered any scholarships?

“Yes.”

Mya Oleksiak ’17 – Soccer at Adrian College, Adrian, MI How long have you been playing soccer?

“I’ve played for 13 years.”

What made you pick this college?

“I loved the campus when I went on a visit, and the coach and team were very welcoming.”

Were you offered any scholarships?

“Yes, I was offered a full-tuition scholarship.”

The Detroit Red Wings have had a rough season, to say the least. Currently, the Red Wings are five games out of a playoff spot and need to hit the ice hard for the next month to get back in the hunt for the wild card.

With the 25-season playoff streak on the line, the Red Wings have now entered desperation mode to save the streak for Hockeytown. In my opinion, the Red Wings lack defensemen and, until they get two more solid point men, they will not be a Stanley Cup contender much less make the playoffs.

Last year, the Wings had the chance at gaining two great defensemen in Shea Webber and/or PK Subban, instead they added Mike Green. Don’t get me wrong, Green is a great offensive defenseman, but by no means has he helped them keep out goals or take some slack off of Howard and Mrazek.

The Wings already have one of the best forward lineups in the league. Why do we need another offensiveminded player that doesn’t even play forward? The Red Wings need a big body on the point that will play defense and hit. They are trying to play Western Conference hockey in the Eastern Conference, and it hasn’t worked out what-so-ever.

Furthermore, if Detroit wants to get to the playoffs this year, they need a healthy Jimmy Howard. Before Howard got injured, he had one of the best save percentages and goals against averages in the league.

Getting him back and keeping him healthy is the most important key for the Wings to make a run this year for Lord Stanley.

The Red Wings need a great defensive effort all around to make the playoffs and push for the Stanley Cup.

Livia Noble ’17 – Volleyball at Macomb Community College, Macomb, MI How long have you been playing volleyball?

“I’ve been playing since the sixth grade.”

What made you pick this college?

“I am going there because I got a full ride there.”

Were you offered any scholarships?’

“Yes, I was offered a full ride.”

Tracianne Jegla ’17 – Soccer at Marian University, Fond Du Lac, Wisconsin How long have you been playing soccer?

“I’ve been playing for 14 years.”

What made you pick this college?

“I picked this university because it is a small college, and they have a great special education program that I want to major in.”

Were you offered any scholarships?

“I was offered scholarships at other schools to come play soccer for them, but not Marian because it is a division three school.”

Connor Riesterer ’17 – Baseball at Marygrove College, Detroit, MI How long have you been playing baseball?

“I’ve been playing competitively for eight years.”

What made you pick this college?

“It’s close to home, I’ve trained with the coach for five years, and it offers my programs.”

Were you offered any scholarships?

“I was offered scholarships from Calvin College, Olivet College, U of M-Dearborn, Carrol University- Wisconsin, and Marygrove College. Also, I was given an athletic and academic scholarship.”

Entertainment | 7

March 20, 2017

Q &A with Mr. Crusader: Zach Craig ‘17

BY Renee prvulov ‘17 Entertainment Editor

Q: How does it feel to be the winner of Mr. Crusader?

A: It was an honor to win.

It felt awesome to have all of that money donated to my charity.

Q: Were you surprised when they announced your name?

A: Yes, I was surprised because everyone else was so talented and we all worked extremely hard. We all had an equal chance at winning.

Q: What was your favorite portion and why?

A: The group dance because it was silly. We all had to practice a lot, and

everyone was involved in the dance and had a part.

Q: How much of a time commitment was this show? How often were rehearsals?

A: It was not too bad.

We had a few rehearsals, mostly to learn the dance.

We worked on our own a lot, and most of the rehearsals took place during lunch.

Q: What is your charity?

Why did you pick it?

A: My charity is the Make a Wish Foundation. It is a really important cause.

I like to see kids be happy when their wish is granted by this foundation.

Q: What did you do for the talent portion? Why did you choose this?

Award season results

BY Chloe Acker ‘17 Editor-In-Chief

Grammys: (E online) Record of the Year: Adele, “Hello” Album of the Year: Adele, “25” Song of the Year: Adele, “Hello” Best Rap Album: Chance the Rapper, “Coloring Book” Best Urban Contemporary Album: Beyoncé, “Lemonade” Best Country Solo Performance: Maren Morris, “My Church” Best Rock Song: David Bowie, “Blackstar” Best New Artist: Chance the Rapper Best Country Album: Sturgill Simpson, “A Sailor’s Guide to Earth” Best Country Song: Tim McGraw, “Humble and Kind” Best Pop Solo Performance: Adele, “Hello” Best Alternative Music Album: David Bowie, “Blackstar” Best Rock Album: Cage the Elephant, “Tell Me I’m Pretty” Best Metal Performance: Megadeath, “Dystopia” Best Rock Performance: David Bowie, “Blackstar” Best Rap Song: Drake, “Hotline Bling” Best Rap/Sung Performance: Drake, “Hotline Bling” Best Rap Performance: Chance the Rapper, “No Problem (feat. Lil Wayne & 2 Chainz)” Academy Awards: Best Picture: “Moonlight” Actor: Casey Affleck, “Manchester by the Sea” Actress: Emma Stone, “La La Land” Supporting Actor: Mahershala Ali, “Moonlight” Supporting Actress: Viola Davis, “Fences” Animated Feature: “Zootopia” Cinematography: “La La Land” Costume Design: “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them” Direction: Damien Chazelle,

• 25 % OFF OF ANY SALE

“La La Land” Documentary Feature: “O.J.: Made in America” Documentary Short: “The White Helmets” Film Editing: “Hacksaw Ridge” Foreign Language Film: “The Salesman” Makeup and Hairstyling: “Suicide Squad” Film Score: “La La Land” People’s Choice Awards: Favorite Movie Actor: Ryan Reynolds Favorite Movie Actress: Jennifer Lawrence Favorite Action Movie: “Deadpool” Favorite Dramatic Movie: “Me Before You” Favorite Comedic Movie: “Bad Moms” Favorite Movie: “Finding Dory” Favorite Network TV Comedy: “The Big Bang Theory” Favorite Thriller Movie: “The Girl on the Train” Favorite TV Show: “Outlander” Favorite New TV Comedy: “Man With a Plan” Favorite New TV Drama: “This Is Us” Favorite Competition TV Show: “The Voice” Favorite Cable TV Comedy: “Baby Daddy” Favorite Daytime TV Host: Ellen DeGeneres Favorite Cable TV Drama: “Bates Motel” Favorite Late Night Talk Show Host: Jimmy Fallon Favorite Country Group: Little Big Town Favorite R&B Artist: Rihanna Favorite Pop Artist: Britney Spears Favorite Animated TV Show: “The Simpsons” Favorite Network Sci-Fi/ Fantasy Show: “Supernatural” Favorite Cable Sci-Fi/Fantasy Show: “The Walking Dead” Favorite TV Crime Drama: “Criminal Minds” Favorite Network TV Drama: “Grey’s Anatomy” Favorite Premium Comedy Series: “Fuller House”

• Free sample lotion for every new customer

Photo by Morgan Sputa ‘19

Zach Craig ‘17 and Gabrielle Eggert ‘17 proudly hold up the check for the donation to the Make a Wish Foundation.

A: For my talent, I sang and DJed. I wanted to put a unique spin on my singing act to give it an edge. I actually saw Ed Sheeran do it on a YouTube video.

Q: Was it hard or chaotic to transition into the next part of the competition and hit your cues/marks?

A: It was really fun. Everyone was scrambling to get to the next portion and change outfits, but I was used to it from the plays and musicals I have been a part of.

Q: Why did you decide to compete in Mr. Crusader?

What influenced your decision?

A: I did it last year and it was a lot of fun. I wanted to be involved; I think that is very important.

Q: Were you nervous at all during the show?

A: I was not really that nervous, but I did start to get nervous when I had some technical difficulties when I started to do my talent portion. I never had a full run-through for that part, and I faced some complications.

Q: Would you recommend this competition to students in the future?

A: Yes, 100 percent. I think getting involved is very important.

Photo by Morgan Sputa ‘19

Zach Craig ’17 smiles after he won the crown and title of Mr. Crusader.

St. Patty’s Day recipes

BY Ryley Splitt ‘17 Reporter

Photo from google.com Photo from pillsbury.com

Shamrock Bark

Shamrock Cookies Ingredients: 1 roll (16.5 oz) Pillsbury™ refrigerated sugar cookies 1/4 cup all-purpose flour 1/4 cup green sprinkles Steps: Heat oven to 350°F. In large bowl, break up cookie dough. Stir or knead in flour until well blended. Work with half the dough at a time; refrigerate remaining dough until needed.

Shape dough into 3/4-inch balls; reserve seven balls. Roll each of the remaining balls in green sprinkles. To form each shamrock, place two balls with the sides touching and one ball on top of them on an ungreased cookie sheet. For stems, divide each reserved ball into three pieces. Roll each piece into ball, then in green sugar; shape into a triangle. Place one triangle pointed side up at bottom of each cookie between two balls for stem.

Bake 10 to 12 minutes or until set. Cool one minute; remove from cookie sheets to cooling rack. Cool completely, about 15 minutes. www.pillsbury.com/recipes

Ingredients: 1 bag of Wilton Green Candy Melts 2 4-oz. boxes of Bakers White Chocolate 1 cup of green M&Ms Melt Wilton green candy and white chocolate, according to package, in separate bowls.

On a piece of wax paper, pour out melted green candy and spread it out until it’s 1/8 inch thick.

Add the white chocolate on top and swirl a toothpick (or tip of knife) in the chocolate.

Top with M&M’s.

To add more pizzazz, top with more candies and sprinkles.

Allow it to cool.

Once hard, break it into pieces.

Photo from pinterest.com

St. Patty’s Day Oreos Supplies: 1 package of regular Oreos Green melting chocolate or melting candy Green, white, and orange sprinkles Wax paper Melt chocolate in the microwave for 30 seconds.

Dip Oreo halfway in the melted chocolate and lay on wax paper.

Shake sprinkles over Oreos.

Let them sit and harden for 20 minutes.

Shayn’s Shade Flint

BY Shayna Schroeder ’17 Opinions Editor

In today’s media culture, it seems issues and crises come up every other week, so it isn’t surprising that an issue is covered one day and completely forgotten the next: One of these being the Flint Water Crisis.

Yeah, it’s still happening.

Toxic water created by poor infrastructure isn’t something that will just disappear because it isn’t getting covered by the media every day. For the citizens of Flint, this is still a troubling reality.

While news outlets like CNN and CBS are publishing articles titled “Flint water lead levels improve” and

“Flint’s water lead levels are (finally) within federal limits, state says”, that does not give the rest of us the go-ahead to stop caring and paying attention.

According to The Washington Post, the highest level of lead found in Virginia Tech’s Flint water sample was 158 parts per billion.

“That’s more than 10 times the EPA limit. It’s 30 times higher than the 5 ppb reading that can indicate unsafe lead amounts,” while this study took place before the water was said to be below federal limits for containing lead, the citizens of Flint were still exposed to this extremely dangerous water.

But hey, the levels are below the federal limit, it’s

not an issue anymore… right? Wrong. The effects lead leaves on the human body are life-long, especially if the brain is still developing; lead can cause behavior problems, low IQ, poor grades in school, problems with hearing, short and long term learning difficulties, and growth delays. After being exposed to literal toxic waste, who is going to help the children of Flint because of the damage the lead has caused to their brains?

Not only did the Flint Water Crisis leave innocent civilians to deal with the side effects of being poisoned, but it also impacted the environment.

Since the water supply has been severely damaged, the citizens of Flint were forced

to turn to bottled water as their new source of water for virtually everything. It is common knowledge that plastic water bottles aren’t the best for the environment, but being as it’s either use plastic bottles or be poisoned, the citizens are not at fault.

It is disgusting that people in our own state have been poisoned by the water that they paid for. . .for years. It is incredibly important that we now keep an eye on Flint, and make sure that this situation isn’t swept under the rug, like many others.

8 | Focus

March 20, 2017

Compiled by: Kayla Chattinger ‘17

Spring Break Fashion

Spring in How to stay safe on spring break

BY Amanda Tomlinson ‘17 Reporter

•

•

Contemporary floral wrap dress Forever21.com- $24.90

Ivory floral flirt romper Windsorstore.com- $41.90

Night Walker Gather Me ribbed crop top and skirt Pacsun.comSkirt $55 Top $45

• •

• • •

• • • Twill khaki drawstring shorts Pacsun.com- $34.95

Old flys short sleeve button up shirt Pacsun.com- $34.95

Blue Crown hi lo men’s pocket tank Tillys.com- $9.08

•

Bring your passport if you are traveling to another country so you can get in and out of the United States.

Many students of the senior class are going to Rivera Maya, Mexico.

According to Centers for Disease Control and Protection, protecting your skin will prevent your skin aging and skin cancer. Wear sunscreen.

Even though you might not want to, you still need to protect your skin especially in warm areas.

Stay hydrated- being outside in the sun will tire you and your body out.

“Don’t put your drink down and walk away; you can’t trust anyone and they could put something harmful in it,” Brooke Schill ’17 said.

Don’t lose your room key- you don’t want to be locked out of your hotel room.

Keep track of your money. Keep it somewhere safe so you know it won’t be taken.

According to CBS News, it can be dangerous to be alone in another country. Travel with a friend. The buddy system is always better than being alone.

Know the area and directions around where you are staying so you don’t get lost.

Don’t take anything from strangers.

You don’t know if they have tampered with it.

Get an international phone plan in case of an emergency while you are out of the country.

“Enjoy your break by making unforgettable memories with your friends and family,” Lauren Dempsey ’17 said.

Where are you goin

Photos by: Gina Hofbauer ‘19

Michaela Kerr ‘17 Spring Break destination: Rivera Maya, Mexico How many are attending: A large group from LCN and nearby schools Time spent on vacation: A week Most excited for: Tanning and hanging out by the pool

Meghan Lenard ‘17 Spring Break destination: Haiti How many are attending: “My friend and I and then a large group of about 50.”

Time spent on vacation: A week Most excited for: To help those in need

Nathan Mayse ’17 Spring Break destination: Riviera Maya, Mexico How many are attending: A large group Time spent on vacation: One week Most excited for: Being able to enjoy the nice weather