October 2015

N RTH STAR

October 30, 2015 Volume XLI Issue I

Trees show their colors at a barn in Columbus, Michigan, located north of Richmond.

Photo by Ellie Baguzis ’16

“FALL” INTO THE NEW SEASON WHAT’S GOING ON IN THE WORLD?

3

COMMUNITY COLLEGE VS. UNIVERSITY. WHICH IS BETTER?

7

NEW ARTIST ALESSIA CARA IS REVIEWED.

9

STORE-BOUGHT OR HANDMADE COSTUMES?

17

L’ANSE CREUSE HIGH SCHOOL - NORTH I I 23700 21 MILE ROAD I I MACOMB, MI 48042

2 | October 30, 2015

The North Star

news

Top presidential candidates: Who’s who in 2016 race?

Gavin McHugh ‘17 News editor

Democrat: Hillary Clinton Democratic candidate Hillary Clinton, former senator, Secretary of State, First Lady, and a trained lawyer has an impressive résumé and advantage coming into the competition for the 2016 presidential election. Clinton is at the top of the Democratic candidates in terms of support at the polls. The wife of former President Bill Clinton currently seems to have a lead on the other candidates, being one of the most probable nominees for the 2016 election at this time.

Clinton supports issues such as same-sex marriage, abortion, and higher taxes for those earning a higher income; she also plans to continue and maintain Obamacare, according to ballotopedia.org.

Republican: Donald Trump Donald Trump, a billionaire and chairman of The Trump Organization, was an unlikely person to run as a presidential candidate (Though he can do basically anything, since he’s worth $4.6 billion). Despite a lot of opposition, Trump is actually leading the Republicans as the top candidate at the polls. Trump receives support at the polls from a number of Republicans and even Democrats. In Donald Trump’s case, people are either fans or absolutely despise him. Trump is against gay marriage and is uncomfortable with how abortion works, but is not necessarily against it. He upholds one of the strongest sets of Republican beliefs, strongly opposing many topics that Democratic candidates support, according to ballotopedia.org.

Democrat: Bernie Sanders Somewhat a runner-up to Hillary Clinton currently, Democratic senator Bernie Sanders is just as able as Clinton to win the democratic nomination for the 2016 election. Sanders and Clinton have been battling for the top of the list at the polls. Earlier in the polls, Sanders was ahead of Clinton, but Clinton recently pulled ahead. Sanders is pro-abortion and gay rights. He does not want to take further action against Iran, and he wants to enforce the right to vote, according to ballotopedia.org.

Republican: Ben Carson Somewhere just below neck-and-neck with Donald Trump is another unexpected Republican candidate, Ben Carson. Possibly even more unlikely to run than Trump, this retired neurosurgeon decided to take a shot at the presidency. Ballotopedia.org states that Carson upholds many Republican ideals, strongly opposing taxing the wealthier, opposing the idea of maintaining Obamacare, and opposing abortion and gay marriage. People are iffy on whether or not Carson would be a good candidate to nominate. Although his ambitions seem ideal to that of a good candidate, he has no prior political experience. Despite his lack of experience with politics, Carson has managed to remain in second or third place at the polls, according to theatlantic.com.

Democrat: Lincoln Chaffee Past senator and governor Lincoln Chaffee is not as popular as Clinton or Sanders, and he doesn’t have the best chances right now to win the race. The reason Chaffee is such an interesting candidate is because of his views, which differ from the rest of the Democratic candidates’ views. Chaffee does not support maintaining Obamacare or taxing the wealthy more. He doesn’t support legalizing marijuana, and he favors privatizing social security. This proves he has a whole different set of ideas than the other Democrats running, according to ballotopedia.org and theatlantic.com.

Republican: Carly Fiorina Currently in third place following Ben Carson is Carly Fiorina. CEO of Hewlett-Packard, Fiorina tried to run for senator in 2010 but failed. Just like Donald Trump, Fiorina has enough money to do just about anything. Her net worth is $59 million, making her one of the richest candidates in the race. She and Trump are similar because both come a business background. So far, it is obvious that this Republican candidate opposes gay marriage and abortion, but not as strongly as other Republican candidates do. At the moment, Fiorina seems to be neutral on many issues.

She goes back and forth between favoring and opposing topics, but does not strongly favor or oppose much so far, according to ballotopedia.org and theatlantic.com.

Photos by http://ballotpedia.org/

The North Star

news

North news in brief

October 30, 2015 | 3

Luke Zito ‘16 Reporter

Photos by Riley Janssen ‘16

80 + attend Camp Cavell A select few students in grades 1012 got to attend Camp Cavell on the weekend of October 16-18. This camp is designed for students to make new friends and have a few great memories over the weekend. Students got into groups and played some fun activities as they got to know each other.

Crusader Nation is very proud of this camp helping unite classmates into one student body.

Talent Show held last week

Night of Excellence honors academics

The talent show was held on October 20 at JAPAC. The talent show is a friendly competition with students from North who have a unique ability.

Marisa Nahas ‘16 won the competition.

It was put together by choir teacher Mitchell Osadchuk and parapro Charlotte Beach.

Shout out to all the students who will be attending the Night of Excellence on November 4. It is at JAPAC at 7 p.m. To attend this event, students must have a GPA of 3.5 or higher. Congratulations, to all who are going, it is a huge accomplishment to attend this academic celebration.

Scenes from Camp Cavell: the group gathers around the bonfire; students pose for a picture on a chilly day; some students braved a swim in Lake Huron; friends smile for the camera.

How does ISIS affect Americans?

Erin Antosiek ‘16 Photo editor

The Islamic State ofIraq and Syria (ISIS) continues to advance across parts of northern and central Iraq. This has reignited a debate about what the Obama administration should do in Iraq and Syria.

As of right now, the media’s attention is sharply focused on how Iraq’s and Syria’s governments respond and how countries in the region react. It seems that every day is met with a new atrocity stemming from the Islamic State.

The executions, the crimes against women and children mounting, and it seems that every drop of innocent blood feeds a thirst for more.

According to www.christianpost. com, ISIS shows no mercy: ISIS has displaced tens-of-thousands and burned their churches, targeted their pastors, sold their children as slaves, and murdered countless among them. One particular account documented in Defying ISIS describes how the terror group arrived in one Christian town along the Nineveh

Plain waving daggers and swords as talism is controversial. In past years, they screamed, “shall we start beheadthere have been several incidents where ing women and children or start with U.S. journalists have been captured the old and the and executed just for disabled? … We ISIS’s political gains. will behead all of If the U.S. does not you unless you “ISIS needs to be get involved now, convert.” will ISIS continue to stopped in order for ISIS commands terrorize and oppress people in the Middle its followers to innocent people, East to find hope simply kill whoincluding American ever they can, citizens? again.” whether it is the ISIS has been rapidEmanuel Dushaj ’16. military, innocent ly capturing territory. civilians, parents, Fairly recently, ISIS and children. ISIS captured Baghdad, preaches that innocent civilians deserve while slaughtering citizens and military to die. ISIS kills individuals for doing in the process, leaving the streets litnothing besides failing to convert to tered with bodies. their beliefs. ISIS has been known to “I honestly believe ISIS cannot be carry out public executions and crustopped because they target other culcifixions. Due to the existence of this ture’s beliefs, and that will never end,” threat, the U.S. may be at a higher risk said Christian Roy ‘16. for terrorism from this front.

ISIS is an international threat that “Followers of ISIS cannot be recoghas much more aggressive behavior nized in everyday life, anyone could be that extends to a potential nuclear war a terrorist,” said Weronika Centa ‘18. threat, if ISIS were to get its hands on The debate of U.S. involvement in the nuclear weaponry and means to launch Middle East regarding ISIS fundamenit. Recently President Barack Obama

made the decision to launch air strikes against ISIS inside Syria. Since troops left Iraq, ISIS has moved in. Now ISIS is a sizable force and followers are dug in. When videos of beheadings went viral, the U.S. began to get involved.

Air strikes against ISIS aren’t sufficient to take down ISIS, although they may slow down or stop ISIS advances. Experts say that air strikes and bombings should be used to strategically target strike points, take out ISIS headquarters, and drive ISIS into submission.

The U.S. military may need ground forces there because ISIS could be hiding in homes, churches, schools and more.

Some believe sending more air strikes, U.S. troops, aid or guns may be necessary to prove that the United States means business. ISIS has proven to be nothing but brutal. The concerning thing about the situation is how inconsistent it is. Many people in America are truly concerned about all of the individuals affected by ISIS. “ISIS needs to be stopped in order for people in the Middle East to find hope again,” said Emanuel Dushaj ’16.

4 | October 30, 2015

The North Star

features

Same old dress code, new opinions on enforcement Shelby Stanton ‘17 Sports Editor

The uproar over the dress code seems to be worse than ever before.

What students do not realize is that there are no new rules; there is just an emphasis on enforcing the rules.

Usually what happens is teachers and administrators enforce the rules for the first couple of weeks and then it all eventually just fades away. People have very strong opinions on both sides of the spectrum for this divisive topic.

“I think it’s reasonable but so many restrictions are over the top. What is a gang-related color?” said Sierra Grogan ’17.

The reasons for the dress code are understood by many, but followed by few.

“The dress code does give alternatives to what you can and cannot wear.

However, some students feel attacked because they choose to wear leggings and don’t like buying a new wardrobe.

So, I understand where they are coming from.

Thighs and shoulders should be allowed by all means, it’s a body part.

People should get over it.

See-through leggings that look like tights are distracting, but you can still express yourself while following the dress code,” said Abby Seaser ’16.

Incoming freshmen do not know the difference in the dress code enforcement from this year compared to years in the past. They have come into high school knowing these are the rules and rules are meant to be followed, but still for some, they express their disagreement with what they are being told to do.

“I think we should be able to wear anything as long as you are comfort-

Photo by Denver Paver ‘16

Brayden Hunter ‘19 shares his opinion on the school dress code.

able and modest. Girls should be able to wear leggings as long as they are not completely seethrough,” said Brayden Hunter ’19.

The biggest dress code rule that is broken is girls wearing leggings.

Natalie Tanzy ’17 feels that, “People should wear them if they want, it’s their body and if they are comfortable, then it should be okay.”

The problem with leggings is that some of the styles girls wear are completely see through and not appropriate for school. Then there are also girls who wear leggings that are not see through and look fine and acceptable for school. The thing is, leggings are leggings and the school must stick to one side or the other and not discriminate based on the type that girls wear. If girls are wearing them appropriately, they

will not have a problem: that usually requires a shirt that extends to the thighs for coverage.

This year, LCN has a new dean, Jennie Brady.

She feels very strongly about proper appearances in the school setting.

“I was the one that brought in the posters, and I have no problem enforcing the dress code. We will be having grade-level meetings and the dress code will be discussed. You can wear any color you want, and some rumors have made it seem as though you cannot which is not true. As of right now, the signs are the only things enforcing the rules, but after October 8, warnings will go out.”

If these rules are not followed, students will be sent home to change, and it if it happens again, a detention will be given.

Photo by Denver Paver ‘16

Dean Jennie Brady is responsible for the new dress code posters seen around school hallways. Students will be sent to Dean Brady if they do not follow it.

Photo by Denver Paver ‘16

Posters are hanging around the school to remind students of the dress code.

The North Star

features

October 30, 2015 | 5

Where does the Homecoming money go?

Riley Janssen ‘16 Reporter

When homecoming season comes around, students break out their wallets for all the seasons’ activities. Between the dance, football games, and powderpuff, money flies. But when students donate toys to get into the powderpuff game, or buy a ticket to the dance, where does the money go?

Student Council Advisor and Counselor Lori O’Neal said, “The money we make from the homecoming dance goes to the Student Council account to pay for student-spon-

sored events.”

Some of the bigger events Student Council puts on are Mr. Crusader, a male pageant show, the teacher luncheon that celebrates teachers at the end of the school year, and they also donate to the Student Poverty Fund that helps make less fortunate students have equal opportunities. If another dance is to occur, Student Council funds it.

“It depends each year for what events we put on,” O’Neal said.

During homecoming week, Student Council collected toys for the powderpuff game. If

someone didn’t bring a toy, they were able to pay $5 to get into the game.

Student Council was able to collect $500 worth of toys, and members traveled to Royal Oak Children’s Hospital to deliver the toys on October 2. The toys go to children who are staying in the hospital and need to take a break from treatment.

Lauren Raich, junior in charge of the powderpuff game, said, “It really was a success because no matter the amount of toys, the children at the hospital are going to have toys to play with, and that makes all the dif-

Photo by Lori O’Neal

Student Council members go to Royal Oak Children’s Hospital to deliver toys.

These were collected at the powderpuff game during Homecoming week.

ference. And even more money was raised for other charities such as the Make a Wish foundation.”

Overall, homecoming

was a huge victory at LCN. All of the money raised goes back to students and people in need that are in the community. Student Council

wants to thank everyone who attended the events and made them such a success.

Crusader corner store is open for business!

Jake Mitchell ‘16 Reporter

The Crusader Corner student store was started in 2007 by business teacher Joe Naniewicz and former Principal Dave Jackson. Located in the cafeteria, the store sells many different products.

They have a new shipment of their Nike brand Crusader gear coming in that should be here by the end of the month.

The Nike Brand gear consists of t-shirts, longsleeved shirts, crewnecks, and sweatshirts.

The Nike gear from last year is on sale now in the

Photo by: Denver Paver ‘16

store.

A new product they are offering this year is a black fleece blanket with a LCN logo on it to keep you nice and toasty at home and at the football games.

Another fun thing the student store does is a weekly raffle drawing that costs $1 to enter and students could win any item in the student store they are giving away.

Crusader Corner also tries to put on at least two fundraisers per semester. One fundraiser is the yearly dodgeball tournament. At the dodgeball tournament,

the store sells pizza and Arnold Palmers. All the funds made from the tournament go to the school and help support the store. The winners of the tournament receive the new Nike brand shirts and the possession of the famous Kafetti Cup. The dodgeball tournament was won last year by “We Them Boyz” and they plan on taking the W again.

The store also receives many donations from parents and teachers.

Money, hockey tickets, tickets to golf or play soccer gold at Bello Woods Golf Course. are some

of the give-aways in the past. The student store gives away the soccer golf tickets and hockey tickets on random drawings, paying $1 to enter, or they give them away through events like the dodgeball tournament Overall, the student store is a well run business like environment preparing students to be involved for business in the real world and offering many neat items and events to the school and students.

The school store is located inside the cafeteria. Currently, Nike brand gear is on sale to make way for the new items.

6 | October 30, 2015

The North Star

features

Save money or gain experience?

Ellie Baguzis ‘16 Opinions Editor

W

ith college tuition rapidly rising, community college is quickly becoming a popular option amongst high school graduates. For a resident of Macomb County, the cost per credit hour at Macomb Community College is $94, whereas at Michigan State University, it is $454. It is pretty apparent as to why students are choosing to save money and stay home for college.

“Community college is a great decision because it is so much cheaper, and if you have no idea what you want to go into, you won’t waste your money. It’s good to get all of your basic classes out of the way first for a cheaper price,” Kim Martin, social studies teacher, said, “It’s a better value.”

Since students tend to switch their major several times, it makes more sense to wait to invest big money into a major they are dedicated to. However, students get the independence to better understand themselves and find out what they want when away at school.

“Community college is best for students who struggle in high school, and aren’t prepared to leave home,” Jason Hubbard, science teacher, said, “I wish I went to community college first.”

Some students choose to stay home to save money, but that does not mean it is the right decision for them.

“Community college was not the right choice for me. I feel like I’m still in high school,” LCN alumnus Collin Kerpet said, “I wish I went away for school.”

Community college is arguably high school 2.0 for some students.

“Even though I’m saving a lot of money, I still hate it,” Kerpet said. “My advice is if you can, go away to school.”

Other students felt like community college was a great fit for them.

“I am glad with my decision to go to Macomb because it allows me to stay home while experiencing college,” LCN alumnus Kyle Kerpet said, “The best part is I am saving money, and get to work normal job hours while going to school.”

One of the biggest struggles students face when choosing to go to community college is the idea of still living with their parents.

“A lot of kids don’t want to live at home, but you can always rent an apartment with a few friends and it would still be cheaper than going away,” Martin said.

Students who choose to stay home feel like they lack independence.

“I do not think I am as independent because I am living at home.” Kyle Kerpet said.

Regardless of the price students pay, the majority of them will be in debt when they graduate. The question becomes what do students value more: an experience or financial security?

“My motto is you’re going to be in debt no matter what, so what’s an extra few grand? You’ll figure out how to pay it in the long run. Heck, we’ll all be 50 and still be paying off loans,” LCN alumna and current

EMU student Adrianna Sputa said.

While debt is a valid reason to choose community college, going away to a university may give students +a better perspective of the world.

“I am away at school, and I couldn’t be happier. I am finding who I am without the influences of home,” Sputa said.

College is about the experience, living life, making memories, and making long-term friendships.

“The friends I’ve made I have already became so close with! We’ve already started looking at getting an apartment together sophomore year,” Sputa said.

If a student’s main intention in life is to graduate without debt, community college is the route. If the student wants to gain valuable experiences, then going away to university is likely the better option.

Adrianna Sputa, LCN Class of ‘15, headed to EMU in Ypsilanti this fall. Here she attends a football game with friends.

Photo from Adrianna Sputa

Community college pros & cons Pros: • More flexible • Save money • Work normal job hours • Have extra spending money • Two-year programs

Cons: • No Greek life • Living at home • Most friends are away at school • Having to commute • No tailgating • Lack of campus life • Some credits don’t transfer

University pros & cons Pros: • Going away • Greek life • More sports/clubs • Tailgating • Making life-long friends at school • More opportunities • College experience Cons: • Price/debt • More challenging classes

Photo by Brad Taylor

Students head to class at Central Michigan University in Mt. Pleasant.

The North Star

features

October 30, 2015 | 7

Are you up to college standards?

Madison Wehby ‘16 Photographer

N

eelee Vitale ’16 has entered her senior year and is already slammed with homework, let alone she is still struggling to look for and apply to colleges. Vitale is having a hard time balancing all her work within the little time she has.

The college search can be very overwhelming; as students enter senior year, there are many things they start to worry about. Grades, GPA’s, and ACT scores start to determine whether or not students are eligible for a certain college. For many people, senior year can be very stressful due to college applications.

Many students wonder what specific requirements are needed for acceptance.

L’Anse Creuse High School- North’s art teacher Jennifer Duffield said, “I believe colleges look for good grades, level of coursework within the classes taught, ACT scores, and attendance.”

It’s common for students to do poorly their first two years and often succeed more their last two years of high school. This can affect GPA. Additionally, students don’t always recognize how important attendance can be when it comes to school. When a student doesn’t attend school he/she starts to fall behind, and can sometimes lose credit for the classes he/she is taking if one misses a certain number of days.

Student Kourtney Behring ’16 said, “Your ACT

score means a lot to colleges, it ranks you.”

A lot of students stress out when it comes to the word ACT. Yes, the ACT is a big deal and has a lot to do with acceptance; but there are plenty of other areas colleges look for when it comes to the admission process.

All colleges have different requirements for GPA and ACT scores. Michigan State University’s average ACT is a 23. It places a senior below average, while a 28 will move a person to above average.

There’s no absolute ACT requirement at Michigan State, but they really want to see at least a 23 to have a chance at being considered. The average GPA requirement at Michigan State is a 3.62. State is really competitive when it comes to GPA, according to Michigan State’s website. While Oakland looks for a 3.2 GPA average and an 18 or above ACT score, according to Oakland’s website.

Mackenzie Wehby, A former LCN student who attends Michigan State University, said, “My ACT score wasn’t the highest or even in the average rank for applying but I still got accepted, probably due to the other criteria they look for.”

This proves colleges do not always deny or accept students based on their ACT or SAT scores.

Being involved in activities and seeing a student’s improvement over the years of high school has a big effect on the acceptance as well. Colleges would rather students take harder, more challenging

classes. It is better to receive a lower grade than take easy classes.

Student Toby Grawburg ‘16 said, “Colleges look for activities you have involved yourself in throughout the years.”

Administrators at all colleges look for extra-curricular activities. Colleges like to see how students have balanced time with school, work, and activities.

Colleges have a lot of expectations, so it’s really important to keep on top of everything even when you become a senior.

Michigan State University is located in downtown East Lansing.

Photo by Mackenzie Wehby

Senior expenses add up Jessie Bliss ’16 turns in her senior apparel form to Jennifer Duffield, co-sponsor of the class.

Luke Zito ‘16 Reporter

T

here are many expenses seniors have to pay throughout the school year. Some include homecoming, senior pictures, a yearbook, senior apparel, the senior all night party, senior dues, and prom. All these fun activities add up to a lot of money.

Homecoming was $20 per ticket, along with the price of a dress or suit. If a person chose to go to dinner before homecoming, you have to add that price in your budget as well.

Almost every senior needs his/her picture taken for the school yearbook and to give to friends or your favorite teachers. The cost for senior pictures can vary from place to place, but they average around $300. A lot of seniors like to get a yearbook to have the memory of their year of high school. Yearbooks, depending on when you buy it, cost $75 at the moment.

Another expense that is nice to have as a memory of your last year at high school is senior apparel. Hoodies cost $25, t-shirts cost $10, and long-sleeved shirts cost $20.

At the end of the year when the seniors have gradu-

Photo by Erin Antosiek ‘16

ated parents put together a senior all night party at Dave and Busters in Shelby Township. This is the seniors last chance to be with everyone from their graduating class! The cost for this event is $70.

Michala Manfredo said, “Although the senior all night party is expensive, it is going to be worth it,

because it is the last time all of us seniors will be together.”

Senior dues cost $30.

Brendan Radoicic ’16 said, “Senior dues are expensive and no one really knows where that money is going.”

This money goes towards special events that seniors have at the end of the year.

The last dance of many seniors’ high school careers is prom; this is a formal for seniors (unless a senior invites an underclassman) event. At prom you can dance and enjoy a very nice dinner with your senior class, but this event costs $50-55 per person.

Matthew Moskal ’16 said, “Prom tickets are going to be worth the price you pay, it should be a lot of fun.”

Since it’s formal attendees have to dress up and add the cost of a tuxedo and prom dress to expenses.

All of these expenses can be incredibly overwhelming and stressful for students. The approximate total for seniors (assuming they get everything on the list) can add up to $1,000.

Some advice for future seniors: social studies teacher Cathy Verheye said, “It is best for students to start saving up for all these expenses in the summer.”

This will take some of the stress off and help seniors have a great last year in high school!

8 | October 30, 2015

The North Star

The new “Rally House”... Got game?

Shyanne Symons ‘17 Sports Editor

Despite the abundance of college and professional sports fan wear available at a variety of stores, it is rare when there is a one-stop shop for all Michigan teams. Rally House is the place where you can purchase apparel to represent teams from the Detroit Tigers to the University of Michigan.

Located in the Waterside Market Place, Rally House is a convenient stop when you are shopping around the plaza.

The store is divided by school or team, and each section contains a variety of clothing and trinkets. Depending on the popularity of the team, the sizes of their sections vary. For example, the store contained way more Michigan State

and U of M apparel in comparison to Eastern.

Whether you’re looking for a crewneck, t-shirt, or a pair of comfy sweat-

has great sales and appreciates all the business they receive.

If you’re a die-hard fan, unique items like jewelry, scarves, and slippers are offered as well.

Tailgating equipment and even car decorations can be purchased if you really want to go above and beyond.

Even though collegiate attire is more popular among students, the amount of professional sport Brian Summers ‘16 shops for new apparel is impressive. Rally House’s CMU apparel.

Photo by Denver Paver ‘16 selection of Tigers, Red Wings, and Lions items is very pants, Rally House can copious. I loved the fact supply it at a reasonable that the store focuses its price. If your funds are energy on both levels of stopping you from visiting the store, don’t sweat sports. Needless to say, there is something for it. Rally House always

every kind of fan at Rally House.

The ambiance of a new store is always one to please a shopper. When I visited Rally House, I really enjoyed the way the store was set up and how organized it was. The staff was super friendly and was so excited to get the ball rolling at their new location. I feel the placement of the storefront was the best choice of all. It is sure to prosper where it is due to the convenience that sets it apart from its competitors. You don’t have to trudge through a mall to get to the store, as opposed to Campus Den and Game Day Detroit,

where the shopper has to get through the hustle and bustle of Partridge Creek.

Since the nearest sportrelated stores are Dick’s Sporting Goods and Dunhams, I feel Rally House is sure to cause a deficit in their apparel departments. Rather than sorting through tons of different teams and schools, Rally House’s organized store makes it easy to get to what you are looking for.

To please my inner online shopper, I also visited their website to see what differed and what I preferred over the in-store location. Both have their advantages,

“American Horror Story” is scary good

Hailee Hunt ‘16 Reporter

“American Horror Story” is an anthology television show that will leave you with nightmares. “American Horror Story” has locations ranging from haunted houses, an insane asylum, a witch coven, and a circus freak show, to a hotel filled with many twisted characters.

This season is set in current day Los Angeles at the Cortez Hotel. It tells the story of a detective who has noticed that something is not quite right about this hotel and the struggles the guests at the hotel face. The violence and the eerie characters definitely keep the audience wanting more.

This show is nothing like you have seen before. It includes some of the best actors around.

Although, the famous

Jessica Lange is sadly not in this season anymore, “American Horror Story” still has former cast stars Evan Peters, Sarah Paulson, and Kathy Bates and many more. Members of the cast have received Emmy Awards, Golden Globe Awards, and the Screen Actors Guild Awards for their performances.

This season also has an unexpected new cast member, the famous Lady Gaga. Gaga plays a blood thirsty hotel owner, who wants everything in the hotel run her way.

Everyone’s ecstatic about Gaga’s performance as Countess Elizabeth and hopes the rest of the season is as great as the first episode.

This season is expected to be different than any other. Creators Brad Falchuk and Ryan Murphy

say this season’s going to be the darkest one yet.

They are holding nothing back and by the looks of the premiere episode, they have certainly exceeded expectations.

Overall, “American Horror Story: Hotel” is definitely worth checking out on Wednesday nights at 10 p.m. on FX.

Natalie Heino ‘19 and Natalie Hall ‘16 tweet their reactions to the first “American Horror Story: Hotel” episode.

Photo from Google

Poster picture used to give “AHS” fans a hint about the new season.

reviews but they did not vary by much. Each store has their own site which shows what they carry in their store-fronts. If you want to branch out and purchase another state’s team apparel, Rally House has a generalized site that contains every team their stores carry.

Overall, Rally House is a store that is surely going to shake up the sports apparel world. It would not surprise me if there’s going to be more locations opening nearby soon. I highly suggest you check the store out ASAP, you won’t regret it!

reviews

The North Star

October 30, 2015 | 9

Alessia Cara releases new EP Dennis Keena ‘16 Cover Editor

New EP artist Alessia Cara just released her first album named “Four Pink Walls”. The album follows indie style music with her own twist.

Cara’s songs all follow many different stages of her life, describing the challenges one may face in their own life.

The album contains five songs: “Seventeen”, “Here”, “Outlaws”, “I’m Yours” and “Four Pink Walls”, all written by Cara.

“Seventeen” starts off with Cara’s powerful voice, leads into mellow and rhythmic singing, which getting to the chorus soon begins to show how high her voice goes. Once the chorus drops off, Cara begins to

repeat the beginning of how she wants to be on the song. After, she leads her own. back into the chorus. The “Outlaws” begins with song mentions Cara at a scratchy tune and a few age 17 and how she can seconds later leads into freeze time and stay at Cara asking a person to that point in her life.

“Here” starts with a slow beat, with an introduction by a uncredited singer, then leads into Cara apologizing for being uninterested in the conversation that can be assumed that the song is about. Then she mentions how she wants to be isolated, which seems to sound Photo from Google like she is at a family gathering and would rather be alone. Later she be her accomplice in a mentions being at a party crime. She talks about with a boy and how she is running from authoriuninterested in him. Cara ties. Finally, it leads into refers to herself as an the chorus which will be anti-social pessimist. The stuck in your head. The whole song talks about chorus she says that they

will be outlaws and she will never leave the side of her friend. She sings about how she doesn’t want to leave the side of this person. The ending is Cara repeating the chorus and then silence falls.

“I’m Yours” is a cute boy-interested song. This song is fast-paced compared to the other songs on the album. The chorus is catchy. The song is not my personal favorite from the album, but I still tend to find myself listening to it. “I’m Yours” talks about a relationship that Cara has with an unknown person but can show that she has feelings for said person.

“Four Pink Walls,” which is the song that the

album was named after, starts off with a soft and mellow beginning and moves into Cara’s voice with a sort of rap-type style. The song talks about how she used her room (which was pink at the time) as protection from the life she lived.

Later, she mentions her life moving on from the isolation she was living in, and the lyric “who know there was a life past these four pink walls?” tells how she expanded her horizons.

“Four Pink Walls” is a great start for Alessia Cara. The songs really bring out the style and powers of her voice and can be found on iTunes for $4.99. It’s definitely worth checking out! 4 out of 5 stars

Getting real at ‘The Girls Night In’ Tour Sara Wills ‘16

Entertainment Editor

Shayna Schroeder ‘17 Opinions Editor

Popular YouTube vloggers Eva Gutowski, Meredith Foster, and Alisha Marie began touring “Girls Night In” on September 23, 2015, in Los Angeles, California. The show came to Detroit on October 4, 2015. We arrived outside Royal Oak Music Theatre at 6:30 p.m. expecting to be let in at 7 p.m. Yet, the doors finally opened around 7:20 p.m.

The tour features Andie Case, who is an emerging pop star from Seattle.

Case performed four songs, including covers of “Wildest Dreams” by Taylor Swift and “Good For You” by Selena Gomez. Case’s performance was a bit disappointing.

She appeared to be bored with the crowd, only walking across the stage

appeared as a teen girl’s and waving to fans. Case bedroom, a comfortquickly performed averable bed and walls full age covers and only one of posters. The YouTuoriginal song. She then announced her new EP to bers explained that the “queen of YouTube” be released sometime in needed them to make five January.

“We have never heard of Case and didn’t even know she would be performing tonight.

We’re here to see the girls. After Shayna Schroeder we started ‘17 poses in front watching of the Royal Oak them on Theater before the YouTube, we show.

Photo by Sara Wills ‘16 became fans and were of the most epic videos inspired to start our own before dawn. The girls YouTube channels,” said Mallory F. and Kaylee W. then discussed ideas and began shooting challenge from Lake Orion High videos.

School.

The YouTube stars After Case left the started out their list stage, the girls arrived of videos by bringing shortly after. The stage

a viewer on stage to participate in a twerking competition. The vloggers tried to appeal to a younger audience by making the show familyfriendly. This made it more difficult for the older audience members to get involved in the show. However, some of the more dedicated fans were overjoyed to see their idols on stage.

“I was in seventh grade when I started watching stilababe09 (Meredith Foster) and I have been a loyal fan ever since,” said Emily P., a sophomore from Royal Oak High School.

The vloggers continue to make challenge videos in a race to save YouTube, including a lip sync challenge, the smoothie challenge and also a Q+A portion. The YouTubers took questions from fans in the crowd and discussed positiv-

ity, loving yourself, and also their favorite foods.

In the end, the girls are able to save YouTube and restore order in the Internet world. Overall, the show was mediocre, the performance felt like every other video on YouTube. Although Case was a good performer, she seemed tired of the crowd.

We wish the girls would have thought of a more original, entertaining idea for the plot. On the other hand, the show was a good way to kill some time on a Sunday night.

Shayna and Sara agree that the Girls Night In tour receives 2.5 out of 5 stars.

“Infinity” by One Direction will be an infinite hit!

Kevin Rhoney ‘16 Reporter

The sensational boy band that everyone has fallen in love with is One Direction. The British boy band is trending across the world because of their excellent music and their model-like looks. One Direction released a brand new song, “Infinity,” on their upcoming fifth album, “Made In The A.M.” It will be released on November 13, 2015. This song follows their song “Drag Me Down” which will be their second song produced without former One Direction member, Zayn Malik, who left the band in March. This song has shown that One Direction can still sound vocally accomplished even without Malik in the band.

Fans should still remain enthusiastic about 1D’s upcoming album.

This song has a pop feel to it just like many of the other 1D songs have.

“Infinity” includes some very well-thought out lyrics that include the best line of the song which is, “How many nights does it take to count the stars? That’s the time it would take to fix my heart.” This is easily the most detailed lyric in the entire song, no questions asked. This song was produced by the same people who produced the 1D hit, “Story of My Life,” and this new song “Infinity” steps it up. The British boys’ vocals are incredible in this song.

Without a doubt in my mind, this song will put 1D in the charts for INFINITY and beyond!

LCN’s best ghost stories

Photo credit: pixbay.com

Toni Lahoud ‘16 Reporter

Has anyone ever woken up from a spooky dream that left them wondering if it was real or not? What if those dreams became reality? Some students and staff shared personal stories that have haunted them.

Heather Bower ’17 had an imaginary friend named Calvin when she was younger, but Calvin used to continuously ask where his mother was in a soft whisper. The child seemed to stick around when she got older but she

tried hard to ignore it. She kept Calvin a secret from all of her friends. One night Bower and her friends decided to take out the Ouija board. When her brother asked what the spirit’s name was that they were playing with, the planchette slowly spelled out “Calvin” so they quickly put the game away. Out of curiosity, they decided to look up their neighborhood’s history. It turned out that a little boy named Calvin, who lived a few houses down, passed away from accidental hanging. Bower went on to say that now she will forever believe in ghosts.

Another spooky story comes from Food and Nutrition teacher Diane McDonald telling an old tale from a previous hospital job.

McDonald said, “I used to serve food trays to the patients, but my manager told me and some other coworkers not to enter one of the patient’s room’s because she was dying.”

McDonald went on to say that they stayed away from that room until they saw someone come out. “The woman that came out was headed for the elevator. We all tried to catch up with her quickly to catch a ride down to the lower level, but as we turned the corner,

the elevator closed with the lady inside.

Seconds later the elevator reopened and no one appeared,” McDonald said.

She told her manager and they checked the cameras, but there was no sign of anyone riding it. McDonald never rode that elevator again.

Alexis Shipman ’16 said, “In middle school, I was driving home from a friend’s house and passed a park, and I noticed a glowing figure on the swing,” So she went to investigate. The glowing figure was no longer there when she arrived, but she now believes in ghosts after spotting the mysterious spirit.

Natalie Hall ’16 was at her house one night when things started to get weird.

“I went to bed after a long day and kept the TV on to help me sleep. In the middle of the night, I felt something breathing on me, but I did not open my eyes because I was too scared. A few seconds later, something was calling my name so I opened my eyes and the TV was off and no one was there.” Hall went on to say how from then on, she has always slept on the side closest to the wall.

Ghost stories are believed by few people, but the stories the students and staff told will be remembered. Real or fake, will anyone ever know?

Fall activities right down the street Compiled by Chloe Acker ‘17

Cider mills/orchards Yates Cider Mill: -Apple tent & fudge shop are open every day 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.

-Pony rides and petting zoo are open Saturdays and Sundays 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.

-Main mill Hours Monday – Friday – 7 a.m .– 7 p,m, Saturdays & Sundays – 9 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Blake’s Orchard: - featuring train rides, pony rides,

Illustrations by: freedigitalphotos.net

Foc

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10 | October 30, 2015

hayrides, cornfield mazes, several animated attractions and many other family-oriented activities.

-Offers a Fall Festival celebration every weekend in September & October.

-Blake’s Nighttime Haunted Hayride & Three Story Haunted Barn, Hours are 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. daily.

Haunted Houses Scarefest Scream Park: attractions include Castle of the Dead, Carnival of the Dead, Terror Maze

Zone, Hayride of Doom -New for 2015 Zombie Paintball and Survive the Night Interactive Horror Camp out -Bands, DJ’s, movies and entertainment nightly – Gates open at 7 p.m. in October Haunted Farm of Terror: -#1 most intense haunted hayride in Michigan, haunted house and live zombie shoot -Watch horror movies on the big screens around multiple bon fires or seek shelter from the zombies at the Road Kill Café.

Students e Brooke Piekutowski ‘16 Photographer

Au

Cider mills, haunted houses, hayrides, corn mazes, pumpkin picking and other Halloween festivities; it’s fall time again and that means it’s time for friends and family to get in the spirit and join in on some upcoming fall events. There are so many things to do around the Chesterfield area.

Jessie Bliss ’16 said her favorite autumn activity is going to haunted houses with her friends.

“I’ve gone to every haunted house around the area and my favorite is

Photo by Bella Lehrer ‘17

Juniors Lauryn Brunsman, Bella Lehrer, Lauren Schneider, Gabbie Caster and Rachel Kircus go on an adventure through the nature walk at Yates Cider Mill.

definitely The Haunted Farm of Terror located on 26 Mile. Their hay ride beats any of the other haunted houses around! I recommend everyone go before October is over!” she said.

Leann Piekutowski ’17 said, “Yate’s Cider Mill and Blake’s Cider Mill are my top two favorite to go to. Yate’s has a beautiful trail by the water to walk on and enjoy the fall weather and Blake’s has the best cider and donuts around!”

Cider mills are great ways to spend time with family, friends, or even the perfect date!

“Going to the cider mill at least once a year is a must for my boyfriend and I. I’m not really a huge cider and donut kind of girl but I’m obsessed with their

cus

The North Star

enjoy fall festivities

Autumn Events

Photo by Chloe Acker ‘17

Visit Yates Cider Mill and buy some cider and doughnuts before going on a walk through the nature trail.

caramel apples and love going to the petting zoo and feeding the goats even though they smell” Danielle Babel ’16 said.

Yate’s is located in Rochester Hills and on weekdays is open from 7 a.m.-7 p.m. and on weekends from 9 a.m.-7 p.m. There is something for everyone at Yate’s. Fudge shop (made from Frankenmuth Fudge Kitchen), $5 pony rides, a petting zoo (free unless feeding the goats which is $1), the apple tent to bag your own apples and pick the size, shape, and colors, or the river walk to enjoy the beautiful fall scenery along the river, which is about ½ mile long.

“I love taking my little sister and cousins to all the Halloween festivals around, especially the ones we have to dress up in our costumes for. I’ve been to at least three different festivals/ Halloween activities every year for

Photo from Noelle Collins ‘17

Noelle Collins ‘17 and Megan O’Mara ‘17 take a trip to Blake’s Apple Orchard to pick apples.

the past three years. You get free stuff no matter which one you go to, free candy, drinks, food, and music. It’s always a blast,” Emily Colletti ’16 said.

Zoo Boo at the Detroit Zoo is going on October 23-25 and is open from 5 p.m.-8 p.m. Friday thru Sunday.

Purchase tickets in advance for only $8 per person or at the door for $12 per person, and there is also $6 parking. Another great event going on this Halloween is the Halloween Concert at Hill Auditorium located in Ann Arbor and is from 2:30 p.m.-3:30 p.m. on Saturday, the cost is from $8-$12 a person. During this concert, the University Orchestra serves up

Photo from Sarah Shibley ‘19

Freshmen Sarah Shibley, Alyssa Longo, Lea Cook and Eliana Moran survive after going through the haunted house at Scarefest Scream Park.

tricks and treats, put on a Halloween costume or come as is.

“Although I’m kind of old to be trickor-treating, I really enjoy taking my brother to all of the local Halloween events that go on around Chesterfield because he loves dressing up and getting free candy! My favorite event we went to together was last year the ‘trunk or treat’ and there was a ton of old cars with their trunks open with candy inside of them. It was a lot of fun,” Marina Vladi ’17 said.

October 30, 2015 | 11

ABC Family hosts 13 days of Halloween Marissa Ficorelli ‘16

Features editor

Monday, October 19, 2015 • 1:30 p.m.- “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1” • 5 p.m.- “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2” • 9 p.m.- “Hocus Pocus” • 12 a.m.- “Tim Burton’s Corpse Bride” Tuesday, October 20, 2015 • 4 p.m.-“ Tim Burton’s Corpse Bride” • 6 p.m.-“Hocus Pocus” • 9 p.m.- Halloween episode of “Stitchers” • 12 a.m.- “Casper” Wednesday, October 21, 2015 • 5 p.m.- “Casper” • 7 p.m.- “The Addams Family” • 9 p.m.-“ The Addams Family Values” • 12 a.m.-“I Know What You Did Last Summer” Thursday, October 22, 2015 • 4 p.m.- “The Addams Family” • 6 p.m.- “The Addams Family Values” • 8 p.m.- “The Hunger Games” • 12 a.m.- “I Still Know What You Did Last Summer” Friday, October 23, 2015 • 5:30 p.m.- “The Hunger Games” • 8:30 p.m.- “Sleepy Hallow” • 12 a.m.- “Matilda” Saturday, October 24, 2015 • 7 a.m.- “ParaNorman” • 9 a.m.- “Time Burton’s Corpse Bride” • 11 a.m.- “Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas • 12:30 p.m. – “Casper” • 2:30 p.m. – “The Addams Family” • 4:30 p.m. – “Addams Family Values” • 6:30 p.m. – Disney Pixar’s “Toy Story OF TERROR!”

•

7 p.m. – Disney Pixar’s “Monsters University” • 9:45 p.m. – “Hocus Pocus” Monday, October 26, 2015 • 5:30 p.m. – “Sleepy Hollow” • 9 p.m. – Disney Pixar’s “Toy Story OF TERROR!” • 9:30 p.m. – “Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas” • 12 a.m. – “Tim Burton’s Frankenweenie” Tuesday, October 27, 2015 • 4 p.m. – “Tim Burton’s Frankenweenie” • 6 p.m. – “Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas” • 7:30 p.m. – Disney Pixar’s “Toy Story OF TERROR!” • 9 p.m. – “Hocus Pocus” • 12 a.m. – “ParaNorman” Wednesday, October 28, 2015 • 4 p.m. – “ParaNorman” • 6 p.m. – “Hocus Pocus” • 8:15 p.m. – “Dark Shadows” • 12 a.m. – “Casper” Thursday, October 29, 2015 • 5 p.m. – “Casper” • 7 p.m. – “The Addams Family” • 9 p.m. – “Addams Family Values” • 12 a.m. – “Hocus Pocus” Friday, October 30, 2015 • 2:30 p.m. – “The Addams Family” • 4:30 p.m. – “Addams Family Values” • 6:30 p.m. – “Hocus Pocus” • 8:30 p.m. – “Poltergeist” • 12 a.m. – “Poltergeist II: The Other Side” Saturday, October 31, 2015 • 7 a.m. – “Batman” • 10 a.m. – “Batman Returns” • 12:30 p.m. – “Poltergeist” • 3 p.m. – “Sleepy Hollow” • 5:30 p.m. – “Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas” • 7 p.m. – “Hocus Pocus” • 9:15 p.m. – “Hocus Pocus” • 11:30 p.m. – “Sleepy Hollow”

The North Star

12 | October 30, 2015

sports

Varsity players break state records The field through Branden Taylor ‘16 gets ready for a quick snap.

Photos by Lauren Kollmorgen

Jimmy Tocco ‘16 Business Manager

On September 11, LCN Varsity Football hosted Utica Eisenhower for their MAC Red opener. LCN lost a tough game to Ike 34-36; however, two Crusaders had huge nights in a great effort to help their team chase the victory. LCN’s quarterback Branden Taylor ‘16 and wide receiver Jacob Mitrak ‘16 both broke state records during the game. Taylor discussed his accomplishment.

What state record did you break?

I broke the state record of most completed passes in one game with 44. The previous record was 41.

How did you feel after learning the record was broken?

I was really surprised actually. I didn’t think I had completed anywhere near 44 passes that night. I was shocked when I heard that. I didn’t find out until the reporter for MiPrepZone told me after the game. I never imagined myself being a state record holder.

Did the thought of breaking a record cross your mind at all during the game?

Not at all. Nothing even close came across my mind.

All I was trying to do was win the game. I don’t play for myself.

What has come with holding a state record?

I’ve gotten much more publicity. I was fortunate enough to have a few articles written on the game and was able to do four interviews the following day. USA Today High School Sports wrote an article on me, which completely blew my mind. That is definitely something I had never imagined.

Have you seen an increase in recruiting?

Yes. Roughly six schools have contacted me since then. Heidelberg, Alma, Saginaw Valley State, Northwood, and Wayne State have contacted me the most.

Do you have any other records you would like to break?

Not really. Breaking records is not my main focus at all. My main focus is to lead our offense and help us get W’s on Friday nights. That’s all I’m worried about right now.

What are your personal goals moving forward?

I would like to lead our team to the playoffs. We are a playoff-caliber football team and I want to show the state that. I would also like to earn myself a scholarship, but that won’t be much of a big deal to me until the season is over with.

Jake Mitrak ‘16 fights through an attempted tackle.

Jake Mitrak ‘16 LCN wide receiver

the eyes of a coach

Kevin Rhoney ‘16 Reporter

What record did you break?

I broke the state record for most receptions in a game with 19 catches. The record used to be 17.

How did you feel after learning the record was broken?

I wasn’t that happy. I mean, it was kind of cool to hear, but I was really mad that we lost the game. I thought we should have won that night and I felt that I could’ve done more to help us win. I felt dumb because I broke a record in a loss and that doesn’t make my team look very good. If we would have won it would have been 10 times better.

Did the thought of breaking a record cross your mind at all during the game?

Not one bit. I didn’t even know I had broken the record until I read it on Twitter that night at about midnight. Honestly, I had no clue that the previous record was 17. I had expected it to be like 25 or something crazy like that. In our offense, 19 catches really isn’t all that insane.

What has come with holding a state record?

I got a few congratulatory texts from a few coaches I have been talking with. I also have had a few articles written on that game. I also talked to a few people from the newspaper.

Have you seen an increase in recruiting?

Not really. I believe recruiting really is a process, especially for wide receivers. One game won’t change much. Like I said before, playing in the offense we play in, 19 catches is not as much as it seems. I honestly could have played a better game, and the coaches that have been talking to me know that. It gives me motivation to keep getting better.

Do you have any other records you would like to break?

I guess I’d like to break my own record, if that counts!

What are your personal goals moving forward?

I am going to give everything I have to get this team to the playoffs. We didn’t make it in last year, and I feel that we deserve it this year. We have worked too hard to get let down again. I’d also like to be selected as an All-State player, but that is not a priority to me.

Photo by Brooke Piekutowski ‘16

Varsity coach Anthony Kiner has improved LCN’s football team through his four years of coaching.

A famous head coach from Mississippi State, University of Washington, and University of Texas at Austin once said, “You know, a football coach is nothing more than a teacher. You teach them the same subject, and you have a group of new guys every year,” said Darrell Royal.

This quote shows exactly what a true football coach is. It is someone who instructs the athletes day-in and day-out. Every year these coaches receive new smiling faces that are awaiting the opportunity to perform under the Friday night lights.

Football coaches inspire the athletes to do great things on and off the field, and coaches have a big role on keeping the team together as a whole. So many people may be asking, “What does it take to be a football coach?”

Being a football coach takes determination, dedication, and perseverance. Those are just a few qualities a football coach should have. Here is the inside scoop with the football coaches of LCN. Two of the varsity football coaches answered a few questions. Head Coach Anthony Kiner said, “To be a football coach it takes a few things: it takes time, you have to care about the kids more, you have to help the recruiting aspect, and you need to know knowledge of the game.”

It is very important to obtain these qualities to be a successful football coach. The football players need to know that their football program is in good hands.

Player Joe Budzynowski ’16 said, “It takes knowledge of the game, but more importantly, caring about the students more than anything else.”

Coach Kiner talked about a coach’s main goal. “Get the kids on to college for more opportunities; it beats winning any day.”

It provides confidence that the coaches don’t only care about winning. The coaches want the kids to achieve big things in life as well as in college.

Coach Scott Smith said, “The coaching staff can always improve, we just have to keep pushing the kids more.”

The main focus of a football coach may seem like winning, but in the coaches’ eyes it is about taking care of the athletes.

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sports

October 30, 2015 |13

Student section evolution Floyd Wickman ‘16 Reporter

C

oming into my senior year, I wanted to make a change, I wanted to make LCN the best place it can be. I told myself that I really wanted this, and would do whatever it took to make LCN better.

Since football season started off the school year, I figured that would be a good spot to start.

Luckily, I had help on the way. Nick Petrucci ‘16 and Carter Oselett ‘17 were both on the same page as me. They both had the same idea and wanted to bring school spirit back. All three of

us were not scared of being loud and obnoxious to get everyone hyped up for football and volleyball games. We knew that having a loud, packed student section would help out our football team, and the school in general. From last year the football student section did a complete 360.

People started coming out to the games loud and proud as Crusaders and that’s what mattered the most.

Administrators also helped, from giving us gift cards to hand out to the most spirited and loud students at each game to helping fund props for each student

section theme.

The football players love having the student section as well. When asked how a loud student section helps out a football team, Tyrone Miller ‘16 said, “When we look up and see everybody in the stands, it lets us know that we’re fighting for something.”

The football players put in countless hours of practice over the whole summer and worked as hard as they can to be the best football team they can be. Having the student body behind them and supporting them means the most to the football players and they greatly appreciate it.

the playIt also Tyrone Miller ‘16 ers and means a said, “When we this year lot to the look up and see has been coaches. unbelievWith most everybody in the able the of the stands, it lets us way the coaches know that we’re student having fighting for somesection families, thing.” has had waking up our back.” early every Having morning the type of during the atmosphere the student summer time to coach section has this year is their players is not an easy thing to do. unbelievable, the stuWhen asked about dents’ effort this year has the turnaround of the been ridiculous. Even the student section from away football games have this year to years past, a student section. For football coach Brian Anstudents to drive 25-plus minutes to support their derson said, “You coach football because you love team is what school spirit is about. Not just being at the game and you love

the games, being rowdy and dressing accordingly to the themes and spending their Friday night being in the stands screaming and doing their part in making our football team better. A student section plays a huge part in the football game and the attitude of a school.

The football players and coaches looking up into the stands knowing that the supporting students have their backs to bringing students closer and providing an atmosphere where students can bond and meet new friends.

A student section is more than a huge body of students screaming at a football game, it causes students to become closer and truly makes the school a better place.

Jimmy Tocco ‘16 leads his team in a pre-game prayer while the student section looks on.

Photo by Lauren Kollmorgen

Photo by Lauren Kollmorgen

The student section has grown into something no one had ever expected it to: Crusader Nation has been named the top student section in the state, according to the D Zone on Twitter.

14 | October 30, 2015

The North Star

sports

Equestrian rides its way to the top Lauren Bergeski ‘16 Copy Editor

LCN’s Equestrian team is not widely known, but has made a huge impact in their short season.

Using their extreme dedication, the ladies on the Equestrian Team moved up to third place, beating out Anchor Bay and LCHS. The six girls on The Equestrian Team were interviewed, all of whom had much to say.

The girls had nothing but positive things to say about the team. They often spoke about their favorite memories. The group favorite was told

by Ellie Baguzis ’16 in which she said “The highlight of the season was watching Megan Baguzis ’18 and Katie Demick ’17 fall off of their horses at the same time.”

Though it may seem like fun and games, the

girls do want the world to know how hard it truly is. “We actually work very, very hard. It’s time consuming,” said Ellie Baguzis.

Olivia Potestato ’18 added, “People don’t know how hard it is, how hard of a sport it is, and how many hours we actually put in.”

The team spends an immense amount of time together. Their practices can run for two to four hours a day, anywhere from three to seven days a week! The girls see The Equestrian Team as more of a family than anything.

Courtney Casper ’17 said “We’re all really close” and Potestato added, “It’s really fun, there is no comparing who is the best at certain events.”

The North team has it harder time than most,

with a team of six going against teams of 15 or more. This may have been a disadvantage, but it did not hold them back.

All of the girls competed in three or more events, with junior Courtney Casper and senior Natasha Webb taking care of the showmanship, an event where the equestrian is on the ground leading the horse through obstacles. The girls competed in everything from Western to English to bareback, among other events.

Western riding is based on the rider’s weight and neck-reigning, while English uses reins attached at the horse’s mouth.

With some painful goodbyes to teammate Ellie Baguzis and her beloved horse, Bear, the girls are excited for next season.

Photo by Courtney Casper ‘17

Everyone cannot wait to see what the Equestrian Team has in store for next season.

Blood, sweat, and CHEER Floyd Wickman ‘16 Reporter

Photo by Kara Krawiecki

The varsity cheer team shows off their brand new uniforms at a home game.

Cheerleading is a sport that often gets overlooked. The cheerleaders are at most athletic events cheering on the crowd and the teams.

They tumble through the air and most of the things they do are very impressive.

However, most people do not realize how much practice they put in to be the best they can be.

The cheerleaders’ practices are two and a half hours long. They often condition during those practices, most of the cheerleaders said that the conditioning practices can be very hard and tough on their bodies.

The cheerleaders also go to competitions against other schools in the win-

ter. When asked how the cheerleaders prepare for the competitions, Jenny Danaj ‘17 said, “We practice the stunts we do and go over the cheers and routines multiple times until we get it perfect.”

The cheerleaders do a lot more than what people give them credit for.

The cheerleaders also play a huge role in football games, as well.

Every Friday the cheerleaders are always out on the track supporting the football team and starting cheers to get the fans excited for the game.

When the fans are loud and excited, it makes the cheerleaders’ jobs that much easier, especially this year since the student section is very loud and spirited compared to years past. Most of the

cheerleaders said that cheering has been much more fun due to the spirit of the students and the commitment of the students coming out to all of the games to support the teams.

When asked how a loud student section helps out the cheer team, Lauryn Brunsman ‘17 said, “A loud student section helps the cheerleaders out because we feed off of the crowd’s energy.” She added, “When the crowd is excited and cheering, we tend to get more excited and perform better.”

The cheer team has many more events coming up including competitions and basketball season. They are looking forward to a very successful season!

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sports

October 30, 2015 | 15

Boys’ tennis serves up talent Evan Rinaldi ‘16 Online Editor

As the 2015 boys’ tennis season winds down, the varsity team is getting into the mindset for Regionals.

The team has had a very strong season, ending with a record of 7 wins and 3 losses. They have also competed in numerous tournaments against other teams of the Macomb County area.

In their first tournament, the LCN Open, the team as a whole came in first place with many of the individual doubles and singles teams winning first as well.

In their second tour-

nament, the LCN Invitational, they came in fourth, falling short to Port Huron Northern, Eisenhower, and Walled Lake - Northern.

In the biggest tournament of the season, Tennis for Troops, the team prevailed and came in first for the second year in a row, with mostly all of their individual teams taking first.

On top of their tournaments, the team also won the “Macomb Mega Bowl” against De La Salle and LCN Coach Jedidiah Jones’ brother, Jacob Jones.

With all of their success, Coach Jones is very hopeful for the end of the

season.

“We have some tournaments coming up and I see those turning out well for us. We also have regionals October 9, so we will have to see how the boys do,” said Jones.

He was interviewed recently by MIPrepZone and spoke highly of his one doubles team, Blake Kwiecinski ‘16 and Matt Moskal ‘16.

“The one-doubles team is going to be one of the top teams in Macomb County this year,” he added. Both in their fourth year of tennis, Kwiecinski and Moskal enjoy their new senior privileges.

“Practices are more

Photo by Evan Rinaldi ‘16

Seniors Matt Moskal and Blake Kwiecinski are seen getting ready for the serve return in their doubles match.

relaxed this year,” said Moskal. This year, the seniors also get to work with the underclassmen on improving their skills.

“Being co-captains definitely gives us an opportunity to be leaders on the team. It allows us to show our leadership skills. We lead warmups, drills and announce our fellow teammates at the start of the matches,” said Kwiecinski.

The team recently took third in the MAC White.

Even though they will be losing Kwiecinski, Matt Moskal, Anthony Moskal ‘16, Alan Hernandez ‘16 and Alec Fox ‘16, those who remain are looking forward to building on to their success.

Photo by Evan Rinaldi ‘16

The Varsity Boys’ Tennis Team claims their Macomb Mega Bowl trophy to add to their accomplishments this year.

16 | October 30, 2015

The North Star

opinions

Should school start later?

Mia Leykauf ‘16 Reviews Editor

Each morning, school starts the same way.

Students sluggishly walk into school, with their Tim Horton’s coffee in one hand and phone in the other. They pace the hallways hoping that maybe some exercise will wake them up, but in the end fatigue prevails.

According to Kidshealth.org, teens need at least nine hours of sleep.

This amount of sleep is essential in order to function; however, students typically only receive seven hours. Since we start school at 7:11 a.m., we are thrown directly into a situation where we must focus and use our

problem-solving skills sometimes on very little sleep; it cuts back on our ability to work to our highest potential.

“It takes me at least one semester to adjust to having a hard class first hour,” said Jessica Driscoll ’16.

In a sleep poll done by the National Sleep Foundation, they discovered that approximately 54 percent of high school students had problems with sleepiness at school.

This includes: falling asleep in class, feeling too tired to work, falling asleep while doing homework, and arriving late due to oversleeping.

“Kids are staying up too late on school nights; it’s

affecting their attendance of first hour,” said math teacher Silvana Audia.

Giving students an extra hour to sleep could be the difference between falling asleep in class, and actually being able to comprehend the lesson.

School administrators realize that in order to be attentive and willing to learn, we must be caught up on our Z’s.

“I agree that starting later would benefit students, but many students are involved in sports and later start times would affect them in a different way,” Associate Principal Kim Rawski said.

Schools that have changed the start time,

for example The Minneapolis Public School District, found that attendance, alertness in class and grades all increased.

If our school was able to give us that extra hour

in the morning, it would change everything.

“I would be able to do any homework I didn’t complete the night before,” said Kamil Amerla ’18.

In my opinion, we

should be given the opportunity to fully wakeup before having to solve calculus problems, or taking a quiz on Spanish grammar. Students’ sleep is depreciated, and it needs to change!

Experts say that high school students should start school later, while younger children should go to school earlier.

Photo by Dennis Keena ‘16

The great Halloween debate: store-bought costumes or homemade costumes?

Denver Paver ‘16 Photographer

With Halloween right around the corner, some may feel pressured or stressed to find the right costume. Around this time of the year, it is not hard to find any variety of costumes, ranging from Disney’s Elsa to the generic clown costume, but which costume is best? Should one take the generic store-bought approach or would it be best to make a unique costume?

There are many advantages to both ideas.

A homemade costume provides a more tangible sense of individuality while a store-bought costume can be easier, cheaper, and trendier.

So which is better? We have gone to the haunted hallways of LCN to ask students and teachers

which costume they prefer and why.

To begin, we started by asking members of each class to see which they prefer. Luke Collins ‘19 said he preferred a storebought costume compared to a homemade costume because they usually look nicer. He also gave some insight on his favorite Halloween costume as a child.

“My favorite Halloween costume as a child was Buzz Lightyear because I loved ‘Toy Story’ when I was a kid,” Collins said.

Jake Pozar ‘19 prefers store-bought costumes for the same reason. He said that when he was a child, his favorite costume was Boba Fett from the popular “Star Wars” series.

Nathan Sobolewski ‘18 prefers homemade over store-bought because he enjoys being creative.

When he was a kid, his favorite Halloween memory was when he dressed up as an old man.

“I really liked being an old man. It was funny, and the costume was creepy, so it added that extra effect!” Sobolewski said.

Emily Parsell ‘16 also agrees with Sobolewski.

She prefers homemade costumes over storebought because they are unique, and give you something to feel proud of. When she was a child, her favorite Halloween costume was candy corn.

This costume was the product of the hard work between mother and daughter.

All in all, the student body clearly has mixed feelings about which choice is superior. Both the store-bought costumes and homemade

costumes have their advantages and disadvantages, so the choice should ultimately be left

to the individual. Both store-bought and homemade costumes together should provide a lot of

costume diversity and make this year’s Halloween one to remember!

Sophomores Emily Coach, Madeline Simon, Megan Baguzis, Olivia Potestato, and Claire Kerpet rock their homemade costumes.

Photo by Jeanette Potestato

The North Star

opinions

October 30, 2015 | 17

Letter to editor: The board needs to back it up Dear Editor: We all know that the “No backpacks in class” rule has been enforced at LCN for a while now. But why, exactly, are students not allowed to carry their personal belongings inside of a bag? Why is this rule being instituted and why have the “rule makers” found that it is necessary to force the students to obey this absurd misuse of power?

In a regular-sized college class (about as big as a high school one), every single student brings their backpack. The class still functions efficiently, with no distractions. The professor goes about the lecture and the students have all of their supplies in a designated, organized place. Because of this, it should not be different for high school students. It should not be against the rules to bring a regular-sized backpack into a classroom when that is the purpose of them originally.

String backpacks, on the other hand, are okay to bring into the classroom. In fact, I have seen some string backpacks that are larger than a normal backpack! It just depends on what the student puts into them.

big as ours fit all of your But here is the thing: if are much easier for our safety issue,” stated LCN school stuff, lunch, a backpacks are banned students than having teacher Betsy Appleman. from classrooms because winter coat (maybe), to carry heavy books in There have been many stuff needed for sports of the potential danger their arms and make school shootings recently or a club or any after of a person tripping and multiple trips to their and in the past, and the falling over it, that is just school event AND your locker before each and thought of it happening backpack? No. The fact plain blasphemy. Think every class. Yes, lockers to your school is devasabout it: it is much easier that students have to go are useful, but so are tating. But, like I said to get your foot caught in to their lockers between backpacks. You could before, there is no rule every class to get their a string that is lying all put your stuff for upthat stops students from over the bringing their floor than backpacks, a thick purses, strap. and other You canbags into not justhe school. tify the If people banning are worried of backabout stupacks dents sneakwith ing stuff into “people school, then will trip it doesn’t over matter if they them”. can bring it If the into class or student’s’ not because personal students will belongstill bring Last year, students and staff were surveyed, and 90 percent wanted the backings are their backpacks pack rule abolished. placed un- Photo by Laurel Neitling ‘16 in to school der a desk anyway; and stuff is the reason behind instead of in the aisle stairs classes in your bag half of the student popuclustered halls, lack of ways where they cannot if your locker is downlation still brings their space, and hallway trafbe in the way of things, stairs and vice versa. backpacks to class. Some fic. Trying to dig through there is no problem with This eliminates some of students can’t even fit a bottom locker between having any backpack in the time and trips taken their backpacks in their classes with hundreds of class. There is plenty of to one’s locker and crelockers with all the rest people being pushed and room under a standard ates hallways that are of their stuff so they are crowded around you (this way less jammed. desk to fit a backpack. forced to leave them in happens on both sides Most students bring I do understand the a teacher’s classroom or of the hallway, therefore their backpacks to and safety concern about unguarded in the hallcreating less walking from school each day backpacks, though. “The ways. space) doesn’t sound anyway. Realistically, original reason for the Teachers only enforce fun. Carrying backpacks could half lockers as backpack ban is the this rule because it is a

school policy and they don’t want to lose their job - and we all know that it isn’t a walk in the park to find a good teaching job nowadays. Unless a better opportunity presents itself, I don’t think these teachers want to be losing their jobs.

They will do whatever they are told until somebody decides to speak up about things that are not right.

I ask that our district’s decision-makers take a look at this out-dated rule and think about changing it once and for all. It is ridiculous that we can’t have backpacks in classes. This rule holds no ground because there are no downsides to backpacks; it is unjust, plain and simple.

So unless somebody would care to provide justifiable reasons to why the placement of this injunction is necessary in a high school, then the explanations given in this letter to state why backpacks are not pure evil holds more power than the rule itself.

Sincerely, Lindsey Klos ‘16

Managing work and school Toni Lahoud ‘16 Reporter

Mackenzie Kelly ‘16 stays up late at night attempting to finish the day’s homework after coming home from a long night at work. Kelly grinds at Jillian’s Coney Island and maintains a high GPA while taking multiple AP Classes.

Handling work and

school is difficult, but many students at LCN manage to balance both.

"There is never much time to do homework, but when there is time I have to put that before any other things I want to do," she said.

Kelly stays dedicated to achieve her goals of maintaining good grades and having extra money.

Another student, Kyle

Andrzejewski ’16 said it can become stressful to work at Grinderz Pizza while going to school at the same time because he has to find time for school, work, friends, and his family.

"It is worth the stress because the more money I make, the more money I have to spend on the things that I like," Andrzejewski said. He stays

up a little later some nights to finish homework, so that he can have a social life, work and school life.

Kourtney Behring ’16 works at Zucarro’s on Gratiot Avenue.

"It is a lot of pressure to handle both, working at Zucarro’s and school because my boss lets me out later than I would like," Behring reported.

Some nights she finds herself up late at night finishing assignments.

Behring shares that having a coffee in the morning helps keep her awake during the day.

Another student at LCN, Haley Bacarella ‘16, attends courses both at LCN and Macomb.

"I leave school earlier than most of the students at LCN do. So I

can go straight to work at Skechers," Bacarella said that it is easier this way because she finishes work earlier, and then has extra time to work on homework and have a good night’s rest.

Even though work and school is not the simplest task to accomplish, with a little bit of coffee and dedication, it can be conquered.

18 | October 30, 2015

Editorial:

The North Star

opinions

Addressing the real issue T

he dress code at L’Anse Creuse North is a problem. The bigger problem is that the students as LCN will most likely drop the unresolved issue within the next month. The dress code cycle tends to repeat itself at the beginning of each semester. The administration of our school addresses the code at each class meetings and the students are outraged, despite having heard the same speech in previous years as a Crusader.

If you throw a bunch of soul-searching teenagers into a confined space and give them a social issue, such as a sexist dress code, they will amp up one another’s hatred towards it. After a month, the gang of haters will soon disband due to finding a more prominent issue to cling to.

Teenagers are passionate about being passionate. High school students need something to define them, because they have yet to define themselves. Due to this, adolescents have a tendency to

get wrapped up in a social issue until a more prevalent one pops up.

Partly, this is due to people being quick to talk but slow to act. Complaining about the dress code is simple, but accomplishes nothing. Rather than go straight to outrageous forms of protest, such as walking out, it seems more sensible to schedule a meeting with the school board where you can express your opinion formally. If high school students have a problem with the dress code, it is only logical that they take the issue to someone who can change it.

Some teenagers do have genuine passions for causes, but all too often teenagers simply enjoy being a part of something bigger than themselves.

While being passionate about a social issue is good, dropping it as soon as another comes along shows a lack of commitment. If you want something to change, do something about it. Talking spreads the word, actions change the world.

Photo by Shayna Schroeder ‘17

New LCN posters start controversy within the student body, even though the dress code has not changed.

Creative Crusaders Riley Janssen ‘16 Reporter

Stop! Look around! Is the person to the left or right of you going to be the next Picasso or Michael Jordan? As you walk the halls of Crusader Nation, you know other student’s names, but do you really know your peers?

Stephan Szkipala ‘16 is a senior who makes tree carvings with his father on the weekends.

Emil Szkipala, Stephan’s father, graduated with an art degree from a sculptor’s college in Europe.

Szkipala said, “My dad has been carving trees for 30 years. He started as a hand carver and got into chainsaw carving from a friend. I picked up my first saw when I was 8 years old, and I’ve been doing it ever since.”

Szkipala said the process is quite easy, yet it can be difficult if there is an order that has not been made before.

“Clients will have a large tree in their yard and will call us to come carve it.

You start with a log or tree without branches. You make the general shape with a bigger saw, and then you take a couple smaller saws to make the

smaller details.”

Szkipala loves to challenge himself: His favorite thing to carve is anything he has not carved before. Szkipala describes the coolest piece of work he has done was in Allen Park.

“It was a 30-foot tall tree. We carved a 15-foot bear with three big eagles,” Szkipala said.

He describes his woodcarving business as unique because they are one of the largest known carvers in Michigan.

Szkipala said, “I started as one of the youngest, if not the youngest, carvers in the country. Starting at 8 years old, I have been doing it for 10 years.”

Szkipala wants to continue doing carvings in the future: He plans on doing them as a side job or as a hobby.

So many people have special or hidden talents that are never recognized.

Like the little things that make a person different or who they are. Do you have a special or hidden talent?

Stephan Szkipala ’16 carves a family of bears from a tree trunk.

Photo by Emil Szkipala

The North Star

opinions

Fast

5

What are you going to be for Halloween?

Do you attend every football game?

Do you go trickor-treating?

What is your favorite fall activity?

October 30, 2015 | 19

Haunted houses or haunted hayrides?

L’Anse Creuse H.S. - North 23700 21 Mile Road Macomb, MI 48042 (586)493-5270

Compiled by Chloe Acker ‘17

Super hero

Yes

No

Haunted houses

Hayrides

Megan Mancina ‘19

Firefighter

Yes

No

Eating Blake’s doughnuts

Houses

Going to the cider mill

Hayrides

Ellie Laporte ‘18

A scarecrow

Yes

Yes

A Ninja Turtle

Almost all of them.

Yes

No idea

I haven’t yet, but I plan on it.

Yes

Meghan Lenard ‘17

Going to the cider mill

Houses

Barry Yung ‘16

Joel Bruss, science teacher

Picking apples at the apple orchard

Houses

Photos by Chloe Acker ‘17 and Denver Paver ‘16

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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 . . . . . . . Laurel Neitling Cover Editor. . . . . . . . . . . Dennis Keena News Editor . . . . . . . . . . Gavin McHugh Feature Editor . . . . . . .Marissa Ficorelli Entertainment Editor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Sara Wills Reviews Editor. . . . . . . . . Miya Leykauf Focus Editor. . . . . . . . . . . . Chloe Acker Sports Editor . . . . . . . . . Shelby Stanton Sports Editor . . . . . . . Shyanne Symons Opinions Editor . . . . Shayna Schroeder Opinions Editor . . . . . . . . Ellie Baguzis Copy Editor . . . . . . . . . Lauren Bergeski Copy Editor. . . . . . . . . Samantha Buffa Photo Editor. . . . . . . . . . . Erin Antosiek Online Editors . . . . . . . . . . Evan Rinaldi Business Manager . . . . . . Jimmy Tocco Photographers . . . . . . Madison Wehby, Savannah Baurhenn, Brooke Piekutowki, Denver Paver Reporters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Luke Zito, Jake Mitchell, Hailee Hunt, Kevin Rhoney, Floyd Wickman, Riley Janssen, Toni Lahoud 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.

20 | October 30, 2015

The North Star

Halloween throwbacks!

snapshot

Photos from Savannah Baurhenn ‘16, Denver Paver ‘16, Liz Paver ‘18, Abby Seaser ‘16, and Marisa Smith ‘16

Liz Paver ‘18 goes trick-or-treating as Bugs Bunny and Denver Paver ‘16 goes as Scooby-Doo.

Marisa Smith ‘16 is Pocahontas.

Abby Seaser ‘16 dresses as Po from Teletubbies.

Savannah Baurhenn ‘16 is Belle the Disney Princess for Halloween and poses with her cousins.