Issue 1, the Black & Gold, Volume 93 by CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL

School Guide Turn to the School Guide on page 11 for the Black & Gold’s essentials to surviving Central. Read further for more

the

October 8, 2013

Volume 93

Black Gold

Issue 1

Photo: courtesy of Jerry Luo

TCAPS goes to China

2012 MIPA Spartan Award Winner

Traverse City Central High School 1150 Milliken Drive, Traverse City, Michigan 49686

Graphic: A. Smits

Millage reworked

TCAPS splits the Millage, two Proposals “We really don’t have a very secure and safe method for people to identify where it is they should be Staff Reporter entering our school,” Vandermolen said. “There are people entering hanges to the Millage After voters rejected the it the building from a lot of different locations.” in 2012, TCAPS is trying Student Effort again to pass a bond proAt Central, AP U.S. Gov. and posal that would provide funds for Politics students organized a the district’s capital needs. Based Student Bond Millage Campaign on organized focus groups, public composed of fourteen students forums, a scientific phone survey, lead by Kyle Dotterer ‘14. and an online survey, the school “Our goal is not to tell people board concluded that the public which way to vote, but rather to wanted a millage with a smaller raise awareness of the vote and the cost, shorter construction times impact it will have on our school,” and a bifurcated plan. Dotterer said. The same type “The clear message we received from all those outreach efforts was of informational campaign was organized last year, but Dotterer that voters wanted the auditorium is looking for ways to improve at Central High to be a separate results. issue from the main proposal,” “Last year they tried going door TCAPS Board of Education to door and apparently that didn’t President, Kelly Hall said. “We work so well,” Dotterer said. “So tailored this year’s ballot proposal we’re hoping to take advantage to reflect what we heard from our of social media in some way and constituents.” actually Mr. Vandermolen and I The end result was two sepawere talking about trying to get the rate proposals: Proposal One message out in the Record Eagle.” includes broad improvements to The group organized a voter the district, while Proposal Two registration drive that was held by is designated to building Central a the Long Lake Township Office new auditorium where the current in Central’s cafeteria on Oct. 1st, main office stands. In addition to and they plan to hold weekly tours isolating the proposed auditorium, of Central’s auditorium and other the district also has scaled down affected areas of the school. the project in response to voters. Financials The previously proposed 1,200 Paul Soma, the Chief Financial seat building that was set to cost Officer of TCAPS, explains why $15-18 million has been modified the millage is a to 670 seats priority for the with a total district. cost of $12.9 “We manage million. over $350 million worth “One of the of capital assets in biggest things the school system,” that’s differSoma said. ent about it is “Some of those it’s, in terms structures of equity, are now at a almost idenpoint where tical to what it’s more West has to economical to offer their start over, and students in that’s the case terms of an for the auditoriauditorium,” um at Central High Head Principal, School.” Rick Vandermolen As of now, the district said. Graphic: coutesy of TCAPS does not have enough Changes to Central money to make these investments, According to the TCAPS website, Proposal Two would make the and is forced to merely repair the most immediate problems, which school self sufficient by eliminatSoma says may not be beneficial in ing annual rental costs of apthe long run. proximately $5,000 for sound and “To put more dollars into ageing lighting equipment. The overall facilities--that doesn’t necessarsize of the auditorium would also be increased from Central’s current ily prolong the life or add value,” Soma said. “If you just put money facility, with the addition of an into keeping the same structure, orchestra pit. that isn’t serving your purposes “We need to be able to provide currently, that’s a waste of money.” the physical resources that are That is, as shown after extensive essential to delivering a curricuTCAPS research, what the issue lum that prepares students for the comes down to for most voterstwenty-first century economy,” -the money. According to Soma Hall said, “and that includes the the public can be assured that arts.” TCAPS’ proposals are a sound Under Proposal One, CHS investment. would undergo alterations to its “What we need to think about main office area. Though exact with this bond is that we’re able to details are still evolving, the main put money into new capital assets office would be rebuilt in the that improve the ability to serve courtyard by the counseling offices. A student commons area and students, improve the educational environment, and are less expena new, clear entrance to the school would also be added to the existing sive in the long run to operate,” Soma said. courtyard area.

George Madison

For coverage of Central students’ various activities over the Summer, and an in-depth story on the woes and perils of assassins, turn to Feature on page 3.

ArtPrize draws CHS students 1.

Photo: A. Olson

TCAPS Millage

Photo: A. Olson

Advisory time designated for bullying seminars Central administrators use advisory time to combat bullying. A special program was selected to address the increasingly harsh cyber-environment

Shaine Kearney Staff Reporter

Over the summer, administrators worked to institute a new anti-bullying program that is presently being rolled out in advisory. The new program, called the OLWEUS Bullying Prevention, began last Thursday and will continue until approximately the end of the year. “The idea was to get the entire district speaking the same language and using the same vocabulary in dealing with this problem of bullying and aggressive behavior in our schools,” Central social worker Diane Burden said. All certified staff members, cafeteria and custodial staff are being trained in a district-wide effort to stem bullying. What the school hopes to accomplish with OLWEUS is to help

Briefs

everyone on campus be able to identify the subtle nature of bullying. The program focuses on more contemporary modes of bullying, which still involves physical contact, but is more often body language that shuns or excludes, and instead of throwing punches, teens often use words as a weapon out on social media. Bullies find it easier to bully kids because they do not have to look them in the face and they can hide behind a screen. “This is the first time a bullying program has been used since I’ve been here,” Bryn Lynch, a teacher who has received the training, said. “It’s hard to say if people are just joking around, or if they were really trying to be mean and bully someone.” Since, for the most part, bullying no longer requires physical strength or even the

Graphic: A. Korson

need to identify yourself, this has increased the opportunity of it happening more. And according to Burden, that is exactly what’s happening: bullying on social media and texting have dramatically increased on campus. “The worst that I’ve seen was the creation of a false Facebook page of a person who did not exist,” Burden said. “So this person starts writing things about this

Photo: A. Olson

Harris is optimistic that her time her will be well spent, and knows that having such a talented group of writers only makes her job better. “How [these] guys process the study of craft into your writing practice, that’s really fascinating and awesome and I think it’s going to make a better teaching experience.” By the end of the year, Harris has a goal that she wishes every one of her students to fulfill. Something that she believes is essential for a good writer. “I want students to be more comfortable with the weirdness of their imaginations.”

s ohn B. J

Front Street Writers gets a new “Writer-in-Residence” every year. This year’s is a published poet, dedicated to the cratft, but as Madeline Aulicino ‘14 puts it, “a little eccentric.” “I like her, I think she’s funny,” Aulicino said. “Her jovial personality adds well to the class.” Harris’ natural teaching ability has never been used before on so many students. “It’s the most student contact I’ve ever had,” Harris said. “How [these] guys process the study of craft into [their] writing practice. That’s really fascinating and awesome and I think it’s going to make a better teaching experience.”

ic:

At the Sept. 27 assembly, all events took a back seat to Officer Joe Soffredine’s kiss with teacher Joelle Kolody’s pet pig, Waddles. “He was squealing and I kind of had a feeling he would do that,” Soffredine said. “But it was something I’ve never done before.” Although it was certainly rambunctious, Soffredine recognizes the kiss was for a very good cause. “The mere fact that Student Senate is trying to raise more money for AEDs is important,” Soffredine

continued, page 9

aph

Published author teaches for FSW

other person, who used to be a friend, who no longer is, ‘she’s a slut, she did this, she did that.’ It really was, absolutely horrible and all of a sudden, this person, who has no idea this Facebook page exists, had no idea this was going on.

Soffredine kisses pig for charity said. “I think that we could use two, three, maybe even up to four more AEDs for students, just to have the potential to save someone’s life.” He should know, he tiraged an emergency during final exams last June after a student suddenly had a seizure. “What Officer Soffredine did, even though it’s what he’s trained to do, not everybody has the know-how or the fortitude to step in and do something like that,” Secretary Pat Bowen said.

1. Jacob Gerstner ‘14 sits and dwells on the placement of the various abstract paintings displayed throughout Grand Rapids’ ArtPrize. “I think it makes the art speak differently to whoever is looking at it. Depending on what kind of wall the art is on and the amount of light it is getting, can have a huge effect on the art.” 2. Kara Hansen ‘17 noticed that the materials to make art were important aspects to the message. “Most of the pieces used recycled materials, so they were things I wouldn’t have thought of to use for making works of art.” 3. Normally an essential venue, the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum was closed on the day of the trip do to the government shutdown. Ashley Smith ‘14 thought it “ridiculous” that this would get in the way of the experience, but wasn’t fazed by the long ArtPrize sprawl. “It’s cool because it’s a bigger area than Traverse City.”

2 Opinion

Traverse City Central High School Black & Gold October 8, 2013

A watchful eye?

School district hires a private firm to monitor public posts, supresses speech, misuses resources, and ignores problem Graphic: A. Korson

fter two students committed suicide due to bullying, a school district in Southern California hired a firm for $40,500 annually to monitor its students’ public social media as a cautionary measure against possible suicidal thoughts, cyberbullying, violence and drug use. It’s important to note that the administration is overseeing public posts only, not private posts. Presumably social media users understand their settings features and can change them at anytime. Although the Supreme Court has not yet heard a case on schools monitoring social media, lower courts have ruled that if what’s said, even in private forums, causes a “substantial disruption at school,” officials can read posts. The firm the California school hired sends the administration a daily report, flagging any concerning public posts that break the school’s code of conduct. It’s up to the school administration whether or not to intervene. We appreciate the administration’s aim to begin tackling the increasing issue of student suicide and cyberbullying, and realize the school has the legal right to inspect these public posts. However, we note numerous flaws in their surveillance system. It oversees students’ dialogue, albeit public, and undermines an important aspect of any high school’s mission: to create a dialogue and a forum where students feel connected enough to their school and the adults running it, to engage. In addition, we’re disturbed about the possibility of administrators taking posts out of context. Satire is often misunderstood (something we know all too well), and banter is often politically incorrect, even insulting. We’re worried that administration will take some harmless quip as cyberbullying. There’s also the danger of keyword tags being misinterpreted. Further, it is disquieting that a public school is usurping the parents’ responsibility to keep their children safe. The government’s job—the school’s job—is to encourage speech, not to suppress it. It is not in the best interest of anyone to have the next generation lack the ability to assert free speech. We at the Black & Gold believe that in order to combat cyberbullying and suicide, our society needs to deepen discussion. Instead of allocating increasingly scarce resources to police students, we suggest educating them instead. It

Graphic: A. Korson

is imperative for our youth to understand the effects of cyberbullying, depression, and suicide. Learning about and truly understanding this problem, is the first step in solving it.

“The “It’s a money good idea should go to monitowards tor this. more Arguecounseling ments are support reinforced because online. Photo: C. Rasmussen they are Photo: M. Caldwell It starts the people who really drama that carries into make a difference.” school.” -Nick Yergens ‘14 -Courtney Allen ‘16

Graphic: M. Caldwell

The Worst Generation Is our generation really that horrible? We’ll let you know. So read on Ivy Baillie

EIC & Production Editor

Graphic: A. Korson

“Money shouldn’t be spent on paying some guy to sit behind a keyPhoto: M. Caldwell board all day to stalk our children.” -Jack Hawley ‘15

“It would start more arguments. The students would get upset that the school Photo: S. Hardin was butting in on their personal lives.” -Bailey Versluis ‘17

Regulating appearance stifles progression As schools across the nation tighten their dress codes, critical and innovative thinking are smothered by conformity Aaron Smits Staff Reporter

the Black & Gold

Graphic: M. Caldwell

Early this year, fifteen-year-old Rylee MacKay was suspended from her public southern Utah middle school for having “distractingly red hair.” At the beginning of the school year, Mackay dyed her hair red, but she was not confronted by the administration until February, when the vice principal noticed that it looked pink and purple. She was told she was not allowed back to school until she had a “natural” hair color. In her press photos, Mackay appears to have naturally red hair; there is nothing alarming or distracting about it. TCAPS and other districts across the U.S. are tightening and increasing the enforcement of codes about student appearance. Locally, Central posted dress guidelines directly on their homepage before school began. Of course, the schools need to draw some kind

Editors-in-Chief Ivy Baillie David Reinke

News Editor

David Reinke

Production Editor Ivy Baillie

Opinion Editor

of reasonable line. They are obligated to provide a facilitative environment for all types of learners, and the current federal precedent perfectly limits the students to a reasonable standard. According to various Supreme Court decisions, clothing should not be offensive or cause a “substantial disruption.” In many aspects, however, there is a trend in education toward conformity. The Common Core, a federally developed super-curriculum, is taking over math classrooms and has the potential to spread through the other departments. Standardized tests are becoming the primary way to assess all students, no matter what subject. As mentioned above, dress codes and other crackdowns on appearance and self expression in school are proliferating across the U.S. If learning becomes an assembly line, it will become totally uniform. Classroom to classroom, school to school, district to district, there will be virtually nothing distinguishing one from another. Do we want all of the students to look and act the same, too? If education continues along this narrow path of conformity, they will quash cultural innovation. It’s ironic that educators preach the doctrines of tolerance and diversity while ratcheting down regulations that stifle those very precepts. To teens, appearance as a form of expression asserts both their identity and ideals ev-

A&E Editor Fiona Muha

Sports Editor Erin Lipp

Focus Page Editor Allison Taphouse

Leek Editors

Emma Caldwell

Scott Hardin Jake Myers

Feature Editor

Business Manager

Lia Williams

Zach Egbert

ery second we are in public. Young adults’ stylistic choices form teachers’ first impressions, which impact their discourse and relationships throughout the year. They should have the liberty of choosing how to present themselves to a scrutinous public; within reason, this is not the place of administrators. The most eccentric and heterogeneous people are the most successful. Innovative thinkers need to express themselves through whichever medium they can find, and this includes the way they present themselves at school. Progressive youths need peers with a variety of temperaments to understand their world. Graphic: M. Caldwell We might be weird, but we are exceptionally talented. Dyed red hair screams: “this is who I am!” Students need the freedom to pierce, dye, tattoo, and clothe themselves in their own confidence. When this right is revoked or choked by regulation, innovation dies.

Photo Editors Meg Caldwell Scott Hardin

Graphics Editor Alex Korson

Staff Reporters Mady Basch Kory Cole Jeff Comerford Brie Goodno Connor Hansen Margo Hoagg Bri Johnson

I’m at a time in my life when I’m trying to figure out everything at once. I actually have this mosaic of sticky notes on my wall enumerating every single task I need to finish that spans from “going to the bank” to “figure out what to major in.” Crazy? Probably. Most likely. On top off all of this, I become bombarded with the barely visible speck of faith adults have for peers and me. And it’s just such a shame because I have the utmost confidence in where we are going or at least I’m trying to. We are thrust into a world with the appearance of very little promise, where everything is our fault. The icebergs are melting. Ahem, isn’t this happening because of stupid decisions elders made on their watch? But they are easy to pass the blame to us, insisting that it’s our constant need for technology that melts our brains, morals, and the atmosphere. However, I don’t necessarily blame my grey haired friends for their hasty judgements. I too, have moments that can be distilled to downright embarrassment for those my age. But as I’ve been pondering how I feel about my future, as well as my peers’, I realize that this isn’t a generational thing. It is the job for you to challenge the previous generation, no matter the decade. Plenty of hippies surely shaking their dreaded heads at war thirsty politicians, and I can only imagine the scandal, downright horror, that divided teens of Catholic-Protestant England. What is different, is how others see my generation. The overwhelming instinct is to pass us off as overprivileged, overfed, oversexed infants. This year, David and I will delve into topics that resonate with “our generation,” to explore whether we really are the worst generation. I hope not.

David Reinke

EIC & News Editor And then there’s me. I’ll be blunt; modern culture is, for the most part, a dull affair, social media sites... they’re dumb so I don’t bother with them, and I’m somewhat disgusted by nicey-nice people. My friends have called me an old man, and I don’t argue. I just sometimes wish it was the ‘60s and I could have friends and family who listened to similar music and solve my problems with a well-placed punch to the kisser. I’m just old-fashioned like that. Not to say that I’m going to use this column to throw my whole generation under the school bus. Au contraire, I have so much faith in where we are going. Our parents and grandparents base their opinion of us, often, solely off the fact that we are so different from who they were when they were in high school. They think we’re dumb because we have to look everything up, but we know we’re problemsolvers because we are able to apply things that they sometimes can’t comprehend. They think we’re dangerously careless, devoid of forethought, but we pursue the bohemian ideals of love and freethought with the best intentions—the world is our oyster, gosh darn it! So don’t fret my fellow whippersnappers, if there is a case to be made, I’m positive I can make it. What I won’t consider is disgracing my “elders” as miserable old fools. They’re older, wiser, and have generally seen a few things in their time. Therefore, Ivy and I will not be foolishly boarding the “old people are ignorant and senile” train. After all, if you look at the 2013 version of “passing the time” from the perspectives of your grandparents or even just parents, this generation can seem a scary thing. Luckily I, being a foreigner in the vast realm of social media, can easily empathize with their point-of-view. In order to effectively hash out what is essentially a cold sea of moot points, Ivy and I will argue vehemently, we don’t do banter because we’re intelligent (dare I say witty?), keen on blasting one another, and our disagreements aren’t soft enough to earn the... depravity...of the word “banter” anyway. Join us for a little repartee, won’t you?

Shaine Kearney Hunter Kelly George Madison Madi Miller John Minster Anders Olson Carl Rasmussen Josie Robbins Hayley Rozema Joel Six Aaron Smits Julia Vannatter

Send us an email at theblackandgold. opinion@gmail. com or drop off a letter to the editor in room F-158

Feature

Traverse City Central High School Black & Gold October 8, 2013

Assassins enter final striking rounds

Photo: M. Caldwell

Max Knoblock ‘14, Skylar Norgaard ‘14, Hayden Drury ‘15, and Nick Yergens ‘14 made up team “Vs. Team Vs. Vs.” Their team was eliminated in week two. Knoblock now subs in for team Homeland Obscurity, and is prepared to take home the Assassins championship. “To all the teams out there, you better lean to sleep with both eyes open,” he said.

Lia Williams Feature Editor

ax Knoblock ‘14 knew something was up when Hayden Drury ‘15 did not answer his call. Armed with his PVC gun and just a few bullets, Knoblock slunk through the neighborhood and initiated the chase on opponents Izzy Pappas ‘15 and Paige Cooley ‘15, together lurking for the kill on Drury. “It’s not adrenaline, but extreme level headedness,” Knoblock said. “I’m invisible to mortal eyes when I’m in my stealth mode.” Knoblock popped one on Cooley before she and Pappas could penetrate the safety zone of CPL. Knoblock is one of the fearsome competitors in this year’s Assassins competition, having personally “killed” six competitors, including all members of team Bourne Assassins in the first week. Assassins, which commenced four weeks ago, is a battle-like competition between teams of five where players try to “kill” opponents by hitting them with darts from Nerf or modified/homemade toy guns. Although there was no Assassins competition last year, judges Chris Hall, Noah Mitchell-Ward and Michael Siciliano, all ‘14, came together this year to organize one of the largest Assassins in recent years. “It’s a lot more organized with three judges,” Hall said. “It’s impossible to make everyone happy, but we do the best we can and so far, everything has gone smoothly.” This year there are 32 teams, over 150 players

consisting of all grades, involved in Assassins. Each week, or round, two teams are pitted against each other in a dynamic “match up.” But only the best teams can advance through their match ups. “The bracket is March Madness style,” Hall said. “The top seed got matched up against the worst seed, and on and on. It was designed so you don’t have the best teams knocking each other off really fast.” Strategies for the game range from hiding behind houses, to luring opponents into traps using chase or decoys. “A good kill feels like winning a chess match, because you outsmart them,” Knoblock said. “I just play it safe and wait for them to do

“

The teams left are all too good. As of now, it’s a total coin flip, who wins. -Chris Hall ‘14

”

something stupid, like straight up exiting their car when I am on the premises. That is just a death prayer.” Knoblock has been hailed as an Assassins “god” and “legend,” especially on the Assassins Facebook page. He describes himself as a “transparent phantom destroyer” when in combat. “With great power comes great responsibility, that’s what I say,” Knoblock boasted. After his team, “Vs. Team Vs. Vs.” was eliminated in week 2, Knoblock was asked to sub for a player on the team that eliminated them,

Homeland Obscurity. “They’re organized and punctually deadly,” Knoblock said. “They’re swift like Hobbits. Somewhat small in stature, so they can hide, but strong in knowledge and knowledge is power.” Knoblock has endured and initiated many battles. Hall said one of the most memorable fights was the Round 1 shoot-outs in a parking lot. Shootouts are required when both teams have a kill number of tie. Shootouts are announced every Saturday with a surprise location, and take place Sunday. “We expected the teams to park their cars as obstacles and fight around them, and get it over quick” Hall said, “but we didn’t expect the thirty-five spectators that showed up. Headlights were on, and we played some music, but not loud enough to wake any neighbors. It lasted two hours.” Assassins has been banned at West; Hall said a few students have gotten too carried away with their Assassins action. However, he said the judges strive to keep the game fun, while establishing boundaries. “Assassins is in no way affiliated with TCAPS,” Hall said. “There are consequences and teams know about them. Hopefully it never goes too far because everybody realizes it’s a game.” Knoblock understands moderation it essential to the warrior’s creed. “My attitude’s mostly just don’t try too hard, do homework first, but then in your free time it can be a hobby for the next few weeks,” he said. The spirit of Assassins may extend longer than this season’s competition, though. Hall hopes to run both Spring Assassins, a hardcore version of Fall Assassins, and Predators, a modified, two vs. two Assassins game this year. As the current competition enters week four, the 32 teams have been reduced to four, all battling it out for the Assassins prize of $800, $100 of which will go to a charity of the winners’ choice. Hall said it’s any team’s victory for the taking. “The stakes are high,” Hall said. “It’s not that it’s too soon to tell who will win, but the teams that are left are just all too good. As of now, it’s a total coin flip, who wins.” However, Kris Konstanzer ‘14 part of Team DDDs, is confident his team will take home the jackpot. “We’re going all the way, we’re gonna win,” Konstanzer said. “I am absolutely positive. We’re waiting for some competition to bring out our secret weapon.” Still, Knoblock assured Konstanzer and his new team will be triumphant. “Our chances of winning are at least two-hundred and ten percent,” Knoblock said. “Think of us as a highly-trained special operative unit.”

Summer excursions enlighten students From dancing in New York City to preaching and building in Guyana, students enter the new school year fueled from their summer adventures

Hunter Kelly & Julia Vannatter Staff Reporters

Summer camp

Photo: courtesy of Ella Dorman

Ella Dorman ‘16 experienced life as a professional dancer in the Big Apple this past summer. For two weeks, Dorman attended the Gelsey Kirkland Academy of Professional Ballet (GKA) in New York City. Dorman auditioned for the academy last Feb. Each year, thousands of dancers audition, but, only about 100 are accepted. Regular tuition costs $1,800. A typical day of dancing began at 6:00 a.m. when Dorman hauled her dance bags onto the subway and arrived at the studio, located on Broadway. “My experience at GKA really improved my dance and polished my technique,” Dorman said. “I didn’t know the days would be so long.” Some days, Dorman would go on pointe for long periods.

“At night I soaked my feet in Epsom salt and used Icy-Hot,” she said. In addition to classical ballet, Dorman attended classes such as American Mime, and a Stretch class taught by an Olympic gymnast. Dorman also experienced Russian-and-Dutch-style ballet classes. “It’s all the same, just with different teaching methods, depending on the origin of the dance,” Dorman said. “Dutch dancing is more brisk. Russian is more technique based and restricted.” This workshop was also about drill and kill— Dorman did the same exercises every day of the workshop. “I learned more classical, refined ballet.” Dorman said. “I wish I could have stayed longer, but I was excited to come back and dance at my own studio.” Dorman returns to the academy next summer; she also wishes to attend several other dance academies, and plans to continue her dancing career into college. At Dennos Museum Nov 10 and 11, Dorman will be playing the lead role in Snow White. “The most challenging for Snow White are the solos,” Dorman said. “The spins are very rapid fire. I’m looking forward to playing her because she is such a goody twoshoes.”

China exchange Stepping on the plane leaving the USA, Allie Friar ‘15 was nervous but excited for what was to come. Friar, along with eighteen other Central and West students, took part in the first Chinese exchange program with the high school attached to the Dalian University of Technology. The exchange lasted three weeks. “I wanted to go on exchange, but I didn’t want to go to a country similar to America,” Chris Brower ‘15 said. “China’s culture seemed different.”

school schedule. They attended school in the morning and took field trips after lunch. “We went to the Xinghai Square, which was the largest square in China,” Brower said. “It had rollercoasters and 40 mile-per-hour gocarts.” Besides the field trips and school differences, Friar said China’s food, government and what is deemed acceptable behavior differs. “In China, you have to respect elders,” Friar said. “You

Wicked weaponry Assassins, look out for these intense types of homemade or modified weapons while in battle

Lia Williams Feature Editor

RJ Fenton ‘15: “Cannon of Death” “This year we built a gun out of PVC with an air tank and pressure release valve. It was temporarily banned because it dented a car, but we toned the power down to forty Photo: M. Caldwell PSI, pressure per square inch. It is incredibly accurate and can shoot from two-hundred yards. It’s useful as a sniper, and it intimidates the other team.” Taran Lutes ‘15: PVC blowgun “I bought two Nerf guns for over fifty dollars, but you can make a PVC gun for like two dollars and eighty-eight cents at Home Depot. Jeremy Chao and I made a blowgun with just two Photo: M. Caldwell PVC pipes, a connector piece and a mouthpiece. It’s close to four feet long, and because it’s so long, you can put in twelve darts. It shoots easily forty yards. It’s very powerful.” Sam McGinnis ‘14: Paintball gun “It was just me who chose to use a paintball gun on my team. It’s kind of a pain because you can only load one dart at a time but overall, it Photo: M. Caldwell works better. It shoots the Nerf darts father, about thirty feet, and it shoots more accurately. It’s two feet long, all black, really light, and uses CO2 to shoot the darts. Other teams have paintball guns too.”

Music festivals In the middle of a forest in Rothbury, Michigan, Chloe Ostema ‘14 and thousands celebrated at Electric Forest music festival. Ostema said her first festival was unforgettable. She enjoyed the set up, including the light shows, a house made from glow-in-the-dark string, and tall towers with clocks set to the wrong times, which gave a mind-altering effect. The lineup included Baauer, Just Blaze, Passion Pit, and Pretty Lights, Ostema’s favorite. “The performer for Pretty Lights played his new album that had not been released yet, and he had the best light show I have ever seen,” Ostema said. “This festival was like a getaway. I will be back.” Gabi Whaley ‘15 shared a similar experience when she entered a textto-win competition and won four front-row tickets to the Country Music Awards Music Festival in Nashville, Tennessee. “Being front row was an amazing experience,” Whaley said. “I loved

Photo: courtesy of Chloe Ostema

Second from left, Chloe Ostema ‘14 dances to Pretty Lights. “The performer called for ‘some pretty ladies to get up on stage,’” she said. “Electric Forest was such a great escape.”

seeing everyone who was performing so close.” The festival lasted a week. “The festival was in downtown Nashville,” Whaley said. “They had to shut down some blocks.” The artist line-up included Blake Shelton, Hunter Hayes, Lady Antebellum and Luke Bryan, who was her favorite artist because of his voice. “The festival had a real downhome country feel to it,” Whaley said. “I already have my tickets for next year.”

Mission trips Photo: courtesy of Jerry Luo

China exchange liasons Bryn Lynch (left) and Paige Paul (right), and Adam Stepan ‘14 dressed in traditional Chinese emperor clothing. “We felt like being tourists,” Paul said.

Every day students got to experience China’s schooling, especially the standards. “They went to school from seven-forty in the morning to nine at night,” Brower said. “When they weren’t in school, they were doing homework.” Part of the school day included speaking and writing beginner Chinese, something students found challenging. “They have characters instead of an alphabet,” Friar said. “You have to learn the sounds of the character and what they mean. Each word could have four tones, so it can mean four different things.” American students did not have to follow the Chinese

can never tell someone who’s a parent or a teacher they’re wrong, even if they are. It’s about honor and respect.” Through living with their host families and attending school daily, students’ eyes were opened to the culture of a diverse, foreign land. “It’s overwhelming to be in another country that’s so different,” Friar said. “They’re very deep into their culture.” Although it was a struggle to go from a small town to a city of six million, Friar said she adapted to the lifestyle. “I could’ve spent more time there,” Friar said. “I built relationships with my host family. It would’ve been interesting to stay there longer and experience more.”

Off the beaten path in Guyana, South America, 100 Guyanese showed up for a night of calming Christian music and religious sermons called night crusades. “People from the church dressed up,” Tabitha Burris ‘14 said. “No one socialized.” The crusades involved singing and preaching. “We went to schools, teaching the Gospel. We fixed the church so they’d enjoy it,” Burris said. Besides lessons Burris learned, the trip made differences for the Guyanese. “The Guyanese were eager to learn things,” Burris said. “Though most of them were Hindu, they listened and appreciated us. I will be returning.” In the states, Taylor Pellerito ‘16 and members of Central United Methodist Church, including Allison Taphouse ‘14, Maxine Valesano ‘15, Nick Friedli and Jordan Pellerito both ‘16, drove eighteen hours to rural North Carolina to rebuild houses in a deprived town. “Our goal was to improve living conditions,” Pellerito said. “I rebuilt a porch. We also fixed roofs.”

Photo: courtesy of Tabitha Burris

Tabitha Burris ‘14 spends time with impoverished students from an elementary school. “We did a trust fall activity with them,” she said.

While helping, Pellerito found an unsuspecting friend. “There was a seven year-old girl living in the house I was working on,” Pellerito said. “She loved playing with dolls, but she didn’t have any. We made dolls from scrapped wood. I will not forget her.” When not building, they were strengthening their faith. “We took bandanas and wrote things that connected us closer to God,” Pellerito said. “We turned them into bracelets, I still have mine on.” Pellerito’s faith deepened. “I now know Jesus is always there to help you through whatever you’re going through,” she said.

4 Sports Graphic: C. Hansen

Aside from Central’s tradition of being successful, each team has their own traditions that continue off the competitive field. Here coaches and players discuss their traditions

Traverse City Central High School Black & Gold October 8, 2013

Trojan football players supported

With the support of family, friends and the TC community, senior athletes Ian Hathaway and Tyler Morse are making their way through recovery after a tragic summer accident

Erin Lipp

Sports Editor After an intense color team relay last summer at camp that consisted of cartwheels, somersaults, and balancing a rock on your nose while walking, the Central girls cross country team raced up to the Pyramid Point Leelanau Outdoor Center dining hall. Considering that before the relay, they had run intervals in the morning and had taken a run in the afternoon, they were all in need of some serious carbs. This is an annual tradition for the team, their idea of fun: gruesome workouts, games, and “enjoying” the Lake Michigan waters, mostly from a road or trail view as they run. “Camp is where a lot of our team jokes are made and where we have our first really hard workout as a team,” Hannah Davis ‘14, a four-year senior said. “This is really symbolic of our team because we have a lot of fun together and are often laughing, but we also work really hard.” Camp is also when the team honors traditions: their camp T-shirt is designed, seniors start a shaving cream fight, the team plays “Ms. Mayer ma’am,” creates dares and challenges, and their legendary talent show. This production always takes place on the last night of camp, which kicks the season off

Photo: courtesy of L. Marsh

After a run along the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail, the girls cross country team enjoys the view from the top of the sand dunes on their last day of camp. “We take a break from technology at camp,” Jessica Budz ‘16 said. “It’s a refreshing lifestyle.”

with a metaphorical bang. “The talent show is a part of camp that you hear about years later,” Co-captain Aleksa Szunko ‘14, and four-year senior, said. “Girls prepare far in advance for these cross country talent shows. It isn’t a joke, it’s the real deal.” Two summers ago, four freshman did the SNL Kristin Wiig “Sisters” act. “It was a perfect match-up of all the characters that make the SNL skit so funny,” Head Coach Lisa Taylor said, “and we had them all right there in front of us, with perfect costumes and all.” The team was in tears laughing, and Taylor agrees the Sister Act was one of the most memorable. Other nights are occupied by walks out to Pyramid Point, and a trip into Glen Arbor for ice cream and summer evening fun. “When you’re spending time with only the team and coaches for four days, you have to be a team player,” Szunko said. “It becomes second nature and lasts throughout your next four years and helps with your daily life.” Additional annual events at camp include Basch runs—a five mile run uphill—intervals and a water run, all of which are challenging even for experienced runners. “On a state level we are a dominant and competitive team year after year, but we are also one of those top teams that is really having fun,” Taylor said. “I have had many coaches point this out to me. We are a highly ranked, organized team that knows how to have fun.” Taylor and her assistant coaches pack as much training, team building and excitement as they can into the four days. This is how Taylor has done it since her start in 1995. “Camp sets the stage for an organized season, with each girl who went to camp feeling like she is a part of something bigger than herself,” Taylor said.

1. State Performance D1 14 top 10 finishes, 11 top 4 finishes, 2 runners-up, State Champions in 2008

2. Number of Runners

46 girls, 3 exchange students

3. Average Miles Run

up to 40-45 miles each week

Photo: courtesy of A. Egbert

Above, Tyler Morse and Ian Hathaway, both ‘14, watch intently from the sidelines as the Trojans faced Escanaba in their opening game last season. Right, Morse cheers on his teammates during the second annual Patriot game. “There was a lot going on that night, I had to be there for my team,” Morse said. “I told them to give it everything they had, to keep pushing hard and to not quit.” Morse is trying to recover as fast as possible, and hopes to be back on the field by the end of the season. In the meantime he will be moral support on the field.

Zach Egbert & Kory Cole

Business Manager & Staff Reporter

he Trojan football team is missing two of their senior comrades this fall under the lights of Thirlby, yet the team presses on in hope of their return. Last July, varsity football players Tyler Morse and Ian Hathaway, both ‘14, were struck by a semi truck and rolled four to five times in Ian’s small red Jeep Cherokee. Morse suffered from a broken ankle, several bruised organs, a gash on his head, and impaled by the emergency brake on his left pelvis. Hathaway endured three broken ribs and a closed head injury. After surgery Morse was stable, but Hathaway was placed in an induced coma that he is now out of. The accident had a huge impact on the football team, as many have played together since their middle school days. “Ian and I aren’t just friends, we’re more like brothers,” Morse said. “We don’t just know each other, we know everything about each other.” Hathaway and Morse have battled it out on the field together since seventh grade. Co-Captain Josiah Lopez-Wild ‘14 said the accident was a wake up call that brought the team closer together. “When you realize how short and fragile life really is, and especially in a contact sport like football when it’s so dangerous, you don’t really think about it and assume it wouldn’t happen to you.” The Traverse City community has embraced the Hathaway family with open arms. Last August, the Metro One Fire Department held a “Shavathon,” the proceeds of which went to Hathaway’s family to help medical expenses. “Ian loved his hair, he had to shave his head for some procedures so my whole family shaved our heads,” Gary Francisco, Hathaway’s father, said. A mini-golf fundraiser held by Pebble Brook last September called “Hope for Hathaway” organized by Channing Bornschein ‘15 has raised

Photo: S. Hardin

over $1,300. “He’s been my best friend since seventh grade,” Bornshein said. “If I had a twin brother, it would be him.” The Traverse City football program also raised money at the annual picnic and boosters matched funds raised. Local stores such as Roy’s General Store, Northland Foods and Pebble Brook all have donation jars for Hathaway. The Central Football program has helped both Morse and Hathaway as much as possible. Tyler played fullback on offense and defensive nose guard last year. “Playing for the Trojans taught us to look after one another,” Morse said. Hathaway played on many special teams and defensive tackle as a junior also. “He would’ve competed for the long snapping job and I’m sad he didn’t have that opportunity to do so,” Bruce Ford, Trojans’ special teams coach said. Defensive coordinator Eric Schugars led the team in voluntary prayer every morning before summer lifting and before every game. “Our faith is what we rely on with a situation like this, that’s our strength,” Schugars said. “It’s something we need to remember and inspire us, Ian would have loved to be in our players’ shoes this season.” The coaches kept in touch with both families and checked in as often as they could. Many teammates also visited Morse at the hospital. A helmet was signed by the team and sent to Hathaway’s hospital bed right next to a radio to listen to his beloved Trojans on Friday night. The team has retired Hathaway’s jersey number 65 for the season and leaves open spots for Hathaway and Morse in their warm up lines. Danielle Morse, Tyler’s mother, called the team a very close-knit group of boys. “Tyler was bummed he couldn’t be with the team every day this year.” Mrs. Morse is thankful for TCC’s close community. “We use the term ‘family’ quite often,” Head Coach Tom Passinault said. “As a head coach, I take personal responsibility for the players. When

I got the call, I felt similar to like it was my own kids.” The Trojans continue to strive for excellence with Hathaway and Morse in their hearts. The team forges a 3-3 mid-season record and is fighting its way into playoffs. The big hope is that, depending on rehabilitation, Morse can play a little, and Hathaway can watch from the sidelines with his team. Ian’s physicians and therapists work him hard. “They push him,” Francisco said. “Every little sign and change is one step closer to a full recovery.”

Firefighter and Father, Gary Fransisco

Photo: courtesy of D. Morse

“I really want to drive home the importance of young drivers. Take an extra 30 seconds to look before you turn. Those 30 seconds can save you three years.”

Trojans celebrate a homecoming victory After playing their best half of the 2013 season, the TC Central football team clinched a Homecoming game victory on Thirlby Field the afternoon of Saturday the 28th against the Gaylord Blue Devils. Their 35-14 win brought them their second win in the past two weeks

John Minster Staff Reporter

The Trojans got their first conference win of the year last Saturday, jumping out to a big lead, and holding it throughout the second half, for a 35-14 victory over the Gaylord Blue Devils. The game’s opening drive saw the Trojans go down the field with ease, highlighted by a 41 yard reception from Zach Egbert ‘14. The drive was capped off with a 5 yard touchdown run from Ethan Campbell ‘15. “Getting the upper hand for our team in the game so early on was a great feeling,” Campbell said. Central’s steamroll didn’t stop there. They forced a fumble and regained possession with their first play on defense. “Turnovers really shift momentum,” TCC Defensive Coordinator Eric Schugars said. “High school football is all about momentum. You get that on your side with things like turnovers and you can really get rolling like we did early in the game.” The Trojans took advantage of their great field position with a 6 play drive, culminating in a touchdown run from Drew Girard ‘15. “Gaylord’s an improving team, but they hadn’t had a win yet,” TCC Head Coach Tom Passinault said. “It was important to put them in a big hole early and make sure we got off to a great start.”

Photo: S. Hardin

Drew Girard ‘15 carries the ball as a Gaylord defender lunges in. “While we didn’t play our best in the fourth quarter, this game showed we can really come together as a team,” Girard said. ”The first half is a good example going forward of what we can do when we’re firing on all cylinders.”

Central dominated on both sides of the ball early on, and the special teams unit made some big plays. Anthony Kratovil ‘15 blocked Gaylord’s first punt of the game and returned it for a touchdown, putting the Trojans up 21-0 as the first quarter ended. “It was an exciting play, and I was happy to come up with a big play in such an important game,” Kratovil said. Kicking off the second quarter, the Trojans forced another punt, but were backed up to their own 5 yard line. But even terrible field

position could not deter them, as the Trojans stormed downfield on a 95 yard drive, mixing up run plays from a bevy of ball carriers and pass plays from starting quarterback Sean Williams ‘15. The drive climaxed with a play action pass from Williams caught by Rhys Adle ‘15, who waltzed in for another Trojan touchdown, extending their lead to a whopping 28-0. “Once I went out after my block, I knew Sean would get the ball to me,” Adle said. “It was my first touchdown of the year and it’s nice to have that under my belt.”

While the first half was filled with big plays, the third quarter was largely uneventful. The fourth quarter, however, was action-packed. The Trojans began on defense, but that didn’t hold, as Charlie Long ‘14 hauled in an interception. “Charlie really stepped up for us,” Schugars said. “One of our inside linebackers, Josiah, got hurt, and Charlie came in and made all the calls and came up with some big plays.” Just after the interception on their first offensive play, the Trojans fumbled and Gaylord recovered, taking the ball all the way down the field for a touchdown, shortening the Trojan lead to 21 points. On kickoff, Gaylord recovered the ball on what wasn’t intended to be an onside kick, which put the Blue Devils down at the Trojan 20 yard line, where they threw for another touchdown and made the score 28-14 Trojans. Gaylord’s momentum continued, as they recovered another onside kick, and once again took possession. The Trojans stopped them, but were forced to punt. However, on Gaylord’s second play of their drive, Trojan defensive back Alex Liggett ‘15 intercepted a pass and returned it for a touchdown, putting a stamp on a 35-14 Trojan victory. “We played our best half of the season in the first half,” Passinault said. “A win is a win at this point in the year, but we need to close better in the future.”

Traverse City Central High School Black & Gold October 8, 2013

Patriot Game

Magazine

Photo: S. Hardin

Photo: M. Caldwell

Photo: S. Hardin

1. Dr. Vandermolen rallies up the student section. 2. Ethan Campbell ‘15 runs through the Titan defense. 3. Jake Gorter ‘14 shakes the hand of a war veteran during the pregame tribute. 4. Jake Lesoski ‘15 helps block Titan players for Zach Egbert ‘14. 5. Lukas McManus and Tyler Wiegel, both ‘16, hold the American flag at the pregame show.

Photo: M. Caldwell

Photo: S. Hardin

6 Magazine

Traverse City Central High School Black & Gold October 8, 2013

Homecoming

Photo: M. Caldwell

1. Varsity Trojan Football team blasts through the banner at their Homecoming game. 2. Michael Kellett and Makenna Beers, both ‘14, are crowned Homecoming king and queen. 3. Ethan Campbell ‘15 celebrates after scoring a touchdown. 4. (Left to right) Chorale-Aire members Anthony Miller, Michael Kellett, David Stone, Caleb Heimburger, all ‘14, and Ben Cockfield ‘15 sing during the pep assembly. 5. Dawson Mortensen-Chown ‘15 catches a ball during Thursday Night Live. 6. Max Knoblock ‘14 sports his 70’s wear for spirt day.

Photo: M. Caldwell

Photo: E. Simon

Photo: A. Olson

Traverse City Central High School Black & Gold October 8, 2013

Fall sports

Magazine

Photo: S. Hardin

Photo: B. Johnson

Photo: B. Goodno

Photo: M. Caldwell

Photo: S. Hardin

1. Michael Meindertsma ‘16 reaches for the ball while serving in his match. 2. Kurt Frick ‘14 dribbles the ball down the field with a Midland player on his heels. 3. (Left to right) Graceanne Tarsa ‘15 and Joy Reist ‘14 push themselves midrace at their second BNC. 4. Riding bareback, Scarlett Zerafa ‘16 focuses on what’s ahead of her in practice. 5. Blocking his opponent, Alex Oliver ‘15 makes a break for the ball. Page Layout: Ivy Baillie, Mady Basch, Maddi Miller

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Traverse City Central High School Black & Gold October 8, 2013

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The Black & Gold wants to thank YOU—our readers and sponsors for supporting us Bullying Curriculum

continued from front page Now we have a lot of people believing things about that person that are absolutely not true, and her reputation was trashed.” Natural Helpers were trained in OLWEUS last Friday, and for the next several upcoming Thursdays they will be visiting advisories speaking with students about how to notice subtle, to more overt bullying, and how to stop it. “It’s a way to communicate with the student

body about more modern day bullying and how we can prevent it in society today,” Natural Helper Myia Hall ‘14 said. “I know previous ways of going about anti-bullying show the old, cheap ‘80s movies and no one takes it seriously.” Many students believe bullying is not a problem at Central; however, it lurks behind the scenes. “I don’t think bullying is very prevalent at our school, but I think it does occur,” Danny Madion ‘14 said. “If we, as students, can help even the smallest amount, it can help.”

10 A&E

Traverse City Central High School Black & Gold October 8, 2013

Central art students take ArtPrize by storm AP Studio Art and photography classes journeyed to Grand Rapids to explore the magic of ArtPrize Fiona Muha & Joel Six

A&E Editor & Staff Reporter

2-Dimensional 1.

Photo: A. Olson

1. “I saw it and it took me a minute to realize what the artist wanted to show,” Jacob Gerstner ‘14 said. “The idea of the artist taking a bunch of photos at the same spot during different seasons, and putting them all into one photo was new. I hadn’t seen anything like that before. It showed me certain techniques that I want to try.” 2. “It made me think hard because it wasn’t a basic picture,” Isabella Scalise ‘17 said. “I liked how they were using an animal and a person together in a painting. It gave me unique ideas.”

3-Dimensional

Photo: A. Olson

3. “There was so much to look at during Art Prize, and such a wide variety of art,” Shannon Fiegel ‘16 said. “The way the colors blended were really cool. It looked 3-D. ArtPrize just opened my eyes to all the creativity that I never thought of before. I was really inspired to know that there were so many different artists around and they all had so many different ideas.”

Staff Reporter

Photo: A. Olson

3. “It was gigantic, probably taller than me, and I’m 6’5,” Magnus Carlson ‘17 said. “People are caged up inside and they need to be set free. The creativity inspired me to be better with all the details. You need to start from somewhere. It just starts with an idea.”

Photo: A. Olson

2. “The sculpture had a lot of movement with it,” Ginger Burrows ‘16 said. “The way the pieces stick together makes your eyes move with it. The shadows were cast so the sun was right behind it and it was put together in a way with lots of holes behind it. I actually made something sort of like this small scale out of cardboard and pastels my first year. It definitely was one of my favorites.”

1. “I thought this piece of art was really different from everything else at Art Prize,” Nicole Vockel ‘14 said. “It was really dark and everything else was really bright. If you look at it, you realize there are many techniques. There are many things that give an uplifting attitude, but at the same time, there were darker shades. I was very happy with it.”

From the Black & Gold’s music aficionados, here are this issue’s album reviews

Aaron Smits

1. “The eagle really stood out to me because of the materials that were used: machetes, knives, and butter knives,” Brenn Olsen ‘14 said. “This really influenced me to be a better artist because it showed me I could use other materials to make art. ArtPrize is always a great day with friends and art. I would definitely go back.”

Drawing

Photo: A. Olson

Graphic: A. Korson

Photo: A. Olson

AM Whether it is radioready hits like “Do I Wanna Know?” or progressive, built-up grooves like “One For The Road,” or even heavy rock hooks you might hear your dad singing along to like “I Want It All,” Arctic Monkeys’ latest release AM covers all of the Alt. rock bases. Still, it’s hard to tell exactly what the Monkeys are going for when looking at the album holistically, which is inevitably AM’s main downfall. Our rockers from across the big pond seem confused about the identity of their band throughout the record, both lyrically and instrumentally. “Do I Wanna Know?”, “R U Mine?” and “Why’d You Only Call Me When You’re High?” all pose empty rhetorical questions, and the Monkeys never enlighten us to a solution to their shallow and frankly, uninteresting and cliched troubles. While inconsistently paced and strangely arranged, the instrumentation is clearly skilled, and can easily make you reach for the volume dial to crank it up during one of Jamie Cook’s skillful, buzzy guitar solos. In the end, the mood of the album is the Arctic Monkey’s saving grace. Reverberating guitars, whiny synths, weighty bass, and Alex Turner’s flawless, haunting vocals generate a truly authentic garage rock atmosphere. The album could be likened to hits off of the Black Key’s Brothers, or even a more instrumentally precise White Stripes record. Overall, the AMs’ AM is a great record to rock out to in the car or before a game, but it fails to deliver for home listeners looking for something with more layers and depth. The choppy pacing and the stereotypical themes are redeemed by the fun sing-along tunes that define the Arctic Monkeys’ overarching talent for writing hits that ride right along the edge of the pop rock boundary.

Jake Myers Leek Editor Photo: B. Goodno

2. “It gave off a stressed mood, because the man looks frustrated,” Caroline Gardner ‘14 said. “This drawing and everything at Art Prize really makes you want to make art. I thought this was really interesting because there were many pictures like next to it, and they were all charcoal. Which was really cool.”

Photo: B. Goodno

3. “I love going to ArtPrize because you see different ideas and mediums,” Elena Morcote ‘14 said. “Art can reflect so much. It can be colorful and jumpy, or relaxed with less color. This photo made me think of things to do with my future work.”

A day in the life: Mt. Elsewhere

Three individuals describe the growth and challenges they derive from their collaborative participation in a high school band

Margo Hoagg Staff Reporter

Electric guitar rumbles the floorboards, announcing the beginning of another loud and long Wednesday night basement practice for the Photo: courtesy of Mt. Elsewhere band Mt. Elsewhere. Graham BeVier ‘14 plays the keys along with John Piatek ‘14 on the guitar. Their melody synchronizes and Zack Peterson ‘15 begins to sing their origiextreme pain or happiness.” nal song “Thick.” They sway to the beat, Their main vocalist, Peterson, collaborates somehow managing not to trip among the with his cousin, Piatek, but also writes his cords that snake around their feet, connectown lyrics. Although he says his songs make ing to the amps stacked on chairs around no sense, that’s why he loves them. their studio. “With singing I’ve never had anyone “We try to make everything as different as tell me that I’m doing something right or possible,” BeVier said. “We go out of our wrong,” Peterson says, “so the biggest thing way to change things.” is just loving yourself, and embracing your The trio felt their name, “Mt. Elsewhere” own art is the hardest part, rather than techsymbolized their connection to the outnically being right.” doors and their passion for individuality. Last summer the trio performed at Friday “We definitely like to cheer on originality,” Night Live, which attracted hundreds of Peterson said. Not only do the band members take pride Facebook likes. From their gigs at Mt. Holiday, and their monthly appearances in their music, they thrive in the experience at Horizon Books, they have garnered adof collaboration. ditional performances at venues like Brew. “It’s a win-win thing,” BeVier said. “You From recurring gigs they have been able to get better at playing and have fun with get their word out in the community and friends. It’s something I’ve alway liked doexpanded their fan base. ing. Not a lot of people get that opportuni“Our supporters kind of branch out,” ty, so I really want to make the most of it.” BeVier said. “It’s always nice seeing a new Mt. Elsewhere is impossible to categorize into any genre except authentic. Whether its face there.” With help from family and friends, Mt. dubstep or folk, the intense lyrics and powElsewhere has been able to thrive in their erful vocals make each song relatable. own creativity and talent. “I write songs that I would like to hear,” “My biggest supporter is probably my Piatek said. “Like when something really dramatic has happened and I’ll have to voice mom,” BeVier said. “It may sound kind of lame, but it is super nice to see your family

Photo: M. Caldwell

Graham BeVier ‘14 plays with Mt. Elsewhere band members John Piatek ‘14 and Zack Peterson ‘15 at Mt. Holiday on Sept. 25. “My favorite part about performing is seeing all of our hard work come together,” BeVier said. “Hours we spend practicing reveal the finished song.”

there.” The band members are certain that music will be a part of their life in one form or another. The band works hard to pursue their musical passion, despite the hardships of most teenagers deal with. “I’ve always hoped a Music Theory class would run through school,” BeVier said. “I’ve always considered going for a nonprofessional music theory class.” Each member has a different take on a “cool sound” that they have blended together to form their band. Mt. Elsewhere has helped the band members grow in their musicianship, meet new people, and become comfortable performing. “No one appreciates themselves, so no one is willing to just expose all those crazy thoughts they have,” Peterson said. “Music is the easiest way to be weird and no one is going to judge you. Singing stuff that really matters is like a whole other level—you don’t even care if someone hates what you’re singing, because you love it so much.” You can find these cool cats on Facebook and Soundcloud; Facebook: facebook.com/mountelsewhere; Soundcloud: souncloud.com/mountelsewhere.

Arctic Monkeys

MGMT MGMT

If you were a fan of the catchy hooks and melodies on MGMT’s debut album Oracular Spectacular, yet felt a little turned off by follow-up effort Congratulation’s less poppy, more ‘60s psychedelia sound, there’s the door. Returning for their selftitled third LP, psych-rockers MGMT don’t have any interest in revisiting the ideas of their first album, and if anything, only increase the zany sounds and evolving unconventional song structures that defined Congratulations. Not to say that’s a bad thing. While structurally similar to Congratulations, MGMT has expanded on the bizarre production, and a confessed influence of house artist Aphex Twin gives this album a late ‘80s vibe. MGMT kicks off with lead singer Andrew VanWyngarden’s dueting with a child’s voice on “Alien Days.” The steady, heavy drums, acoustic guitar chugs, and fuzzy synth lines are the story of this album. The next track, “Cool Song No. 2,” is an example of the transformation MGMT has undergone. Hinting at an underlying sense of drone, the monk-chant style melody and call-and-response chorus show the evolution of maturity and patience of MGMT from the immediacy in their electro-pop roots. However, the Faine Jade cover of “Introspection” thrown into the middle of the album feels a little confusing, uninspired and unnecessary. The idea of covering a track on this album seems more like a novelty idea, rather than a passionate one in this instance. There really is no “hit single” on this album; it is a musical statement that they have made an album, much like psychrock cousins Tame Impala’s Lonerism, or Youth Lagoon’s Wondrous Bughouse. The music on MGMT will inevitably be described as “strange” and “weird” by fans of Oracular, but if you wipe away preconceived notions, the introspection and beauty of MGMT is slowly revealed, and is perhaps their strongest release so far.

David Reinke

EIC & News Editor

Cloud Control

Dream On their psyche-obsessed Cave first album, 2009’s Bliss Release, Australian-born Alt. rockers Cloud Control mused over philosophy, druginduced hallucinations, and other staples of the independent folk rock scene. There wasn’t much mystery to it, but it was jangly, meditative goodness, and anyone fortunate enough to encounter it could jam to it. For their second outing, Dream Cave, the band generally continues this trend. Although they’ve strayed from the upbeat sound palette of their debut, Cloud Control has retained the creamy buoyancy between bouncy riffs and half-baked vocals that made their debut oh-so-sweet. This is perhaps most noticeable in songs such as lead single, “Dojo Rising,” an amicable quarrel over easy-rider love that sound checks Phoenix’s latest endeavors. But the rest is atypical for these previously folk-rooted storytellers. Album opener “Scream Rave,” is an ear splitting half human, half velociraptor choir chant, the kind of experimental weirdness that wouldn’t sound out of place on an Animal Collective album. It sort of reckons with the listener to check any deep-seated inhibitions at the coat room. As the album meanders on, Cloud Control finds themselves dabbling further into the corners of the craft, to misplaced results. This is evident in the whiny vocals of ‘60s obsessed “Moon Rabbit” and the painfully out of place, but synth-satisfying “The Smoke, the Feeling.” And then there are semi-successes like “Tombstone” and “Island Living” that reference Americana blues and early 80’s Alan Parsons Project, respectively. In a sense, the name “Cloud Control” is ironic in relation to their latest and greatest stuff. They certainly haven’t cleared up any overcast for this new LP; songs are darker and hazier than before, but not so much that we don’t smile with the band at their cleverness.

The Black & Gold’s declassified school survival guide

The many tricks of the trade that freshmen have yet to learn: A numbered list. What are they? #45- If you are caught in the halls without a pass, or you want to leave, and somebody questions you, just say: “I’m going to TBA.”

#35- “Be yourself and don’t be cocky.” -Devin Sands ‘14

#66-“Try and get gym class second or third hour so you can get a bigger buffer time for lunch.” -Jake Lesoski ‘15 Photo: B. Goodno

#55-Not every teacher gets mad at you if you just walk into their class during your lunch while they’re teaching, but this does take some finesse. Know whose classes you can interrupt, and those to steer clear of. See Czarny before or after school, or between classes. He’s quite approachable then.

#26-“Get all the classes you need out of the way as early as possible so that later in high school, you can take more of the classes you want.” -Chris Bennett ‘14 #30- If you get caught offcampus and you are a freshmen or sophomore, some staff members will take bribes, like a piece of pizza.

#32 “Don’t eat any roadkill or you’ll get sick from it and miss class.” -Maverick Cook ‘14

Photo: B. Goodno

#37-Bro Lot: seniors only, unless you wanna die a miserable death.

Photo: B. Goodno

#49-Want to sneak into the tunnels? Here’s the downlow: enter and exit through the Pub, there are two trapdoors both in the right corners. But you didn’t read this here. Happy tunneling.

#3- Certain halls in the school are prone to high security when it comes to wearing certain clothing. The doors of C-building are lined with the eyes of vulturesteachers who play by the rules.

#19- Remember, there is more than one staircase and teachers aren’t always necessarily hard to get around if you are trying to avoid them.

Photo: B. Goodno

Guide

What’s in yo bag?

Whether you carry a satchel or backpack, we explore what else resides and subsides at the bottom of students’ bags “It’s easy to just pull out what I need and fits my computer well. I like the style versus other backpacks, because of the way it feels on my shoulder.” Photo: M. Caldwell

Jake Niedzielski ‘14 “I eat at Paesanos practically everyday to collect these cards. I like to make card sculptures out of the lunch combo cards. I conveniently locate them in my bag for when I have free time, to build.”

Graphic: A. Smits

“Because I’m a survivalist and I like to build campfires, at school, outside, in the woods, and roast marshmallows.”

Photo: B. Goodno

#29- Sophomores and freshman, if you want to leave for lunch, get picked up or park behind H building (band and orchestra headquarters), since you’re not technically allowed to go off campus.

#12-“Don’t attempt to go to football games early to get a front row seat if you’re an underclassmen because you will get thrown in the back row either way.” -Clare Sorace ‘14

#24-“Never make eye contact with upperclassmen and don’t park in the first three rows unless you want your car to get keyed.” -Spencer Brown ‘15

#9-“Pay attention to what you’re doing because high school is actually important, whether you think so or not. Your future depends on high school because that’s what defines who you are to colleges.” -Summer Friess ‘14 #57-“Don’t do anything tomorrow that you can do today. Don’t put off homework and papers until the last minute. Just get it done. You’ll get more sleep because you won’t be staying up the night before getting work done.” -Max Knoblock ‘14

Graphic: A. Smits

“It was handmade by somebody and they sold it on Etsy. It has kind of a leathery feel to it. I don’t know, I just like the look of it. It’s also more unique than other bags I see around school.”

Photo: A. Olson

Olivia Favour ‘15 “My mom put the Kleenex in there for me, so just in case I have to sneeze at school or blow my nose, I’ll be prepared.”

“I usually just keep my headphones, iPod and pencils in this little pouch. It helps me stay organized.” Graphic: A. Olson

Graphic: A. Olson

What’s for lunch?

Photo: M. Caldwell

“I write a lot so I like to carry it around in case I get any good ideas to jot down in there.”

Graphic: A. Olson

Traverse City Central High School Black & Gold October 8, 2013

“I switched my bags two weeks ago because I didn’t want to carry around a big bag. I thought that this one would be more of an organizer for all of my binders.”

Tyke Novak ‘17

an .H :C hic

Graphic: A. Korson

“It’s a sports water bottle because it fits into your hand really well. My dad gave this to me. He went to climb a mountain and bought it there. I like it because it reminds me of my dad and all his achievements.”

“It holds my headphones, my water bottle and all my sports stuff. It’s light weight and if I need to store anything else that’s not school related, like food or such, it is a nice substitute from my main bag.”

Graphic: A. Korson

Guide: How to suck up to teachers, explored

Photo: B. Goodno

Photo: M. Caldwell

Photo: B. Goodno

Charlie Long ‘14

Haley Klien ‘16

Rachel Creamer ‘15

Charlie Velis ‘15

Sean Monnier ‘14

“Don’t use your phone to cheat. Teachers see it, it’s really obvious. To cheat, sit at the back of the room, obviously. Be aware of where the teacher is. If they’re at their desk, you’re golden. If they’re up and walking around, don’t try anything.”

“Every time I have a teacher, I try to communicate with them if I don’t understand. For a crappy teacher that I can’t communicate with I try to keep my thoughts to myself and I don’t really say anything, rather I let everyone else do the talking.”

“Be nice because teachers can help you out in sticky situations. Once Mr. Farmer figured out I was ahead and paid attention, he wouldn’t even check my homework, he’d just put in 100% for my homework grades, 90% of the time I didn’t even do it.”

“If you have a conservative teacher, like some at our school, don’t treat them as an equal, or like you’re superior to them. Treat them like they’re the authority. Respect gets respect, et cetera.”

“Teachers catch on when you don’t show up for the days when homework is due or it’s test day. You can’t go to the bathroom for 10 minutes,’ too. For Shelley-Barnes, just use the word ‘ethics’ and be nice. and you should be fine.”

Layout: Allison Taphouse Page credit: Allison Taphouse, Brianna Johnson, Josie Robbins, Jeff Comerford

Are you looking for an A? In some classes, doing the work isn’t all you can do. Students spill the spells to get to the top of a teachers good list. Or, how to make school life a little bit more bearable with hints for the classroom

12 The Leek

Traverse City Central High School Black & Gold October 8, 2013 real stories, real people

Locked doors unsettle students

After Raul Cassmussen was locked out of school due to a new door policy, students are forced to adapt

Disclaimer: The Leek is

satire and not to be taken too seriously.

News in Brief Scott Hardin

Leek & Photo Editor

New evaluation policy

Jake Myers Leek Editor

ue to newly heightened security measures at Central, Raul Casmussen ‘15 has been trapped in the F-building courtyard, and his best guess on how long he’s been encamped harkens to sometime around the first week of school. “Ever since my iPhone died I lost track of the days,” Casmussen said. “I began tracking lunar movement, but it isn’t always reliable, sometimes there’s clouds, you know? I’m taking a shot in the dark here, but by gauging the color of the leaves, I’m thinking it’s around, um. . . November?” As Casmussen was casually strolling through the courtyard to retrieve his physics book from his locker, he got ensnared in the courtyard trap—every door leading back into school was locked due to the new quasi-lock-down policy. “When I realized I could not get back into school, I panicked,” Casmussen said. “Then I remember I had to STOP. Slow down. Think clearly. Observe your surroundings. Plan each step carefully. Of course, maintaining the will to live is essential.” Casmussen set out to gather the three survival necessities: food, water and shelter; however, resources were scarce in the courtyard wasteland. “Man can live about forty days without food, about three days without water, about eight minutes without air, but only for one second without hope,” Casmussen said. “Always have hope. Never stop dreaming! I’ve had some time to think about dreams.” Food was salvageable from waste receptacles, but the local vegetation was inedible. “I tried eating the plants from the Natural Helper’s garden, but I got the worst diarrhea for like, three days,” Casmussen said. “Luckily, there’s lots of leaves.” Casmussen has a makeshift shelter constructed from downed tree branches and a tarp (part of a garbage bag), and a cache of acorns he stole from two squirrel nests, and half-filled water bottles. “Those squirrels play cute and cuddly, but that’s not anywhere close to the truth,” Casmussen said. “You haven’t seen vicious until you’ve seen a squirrel defend it’s nuts.” Casmussen’s next step was to hail a helicopter. “I figured sooner or later the Coast Guard or one of NMC’s drones was bound to fly by,” Casmussen said. He scrounged some branches from his shelter and a dropped lighter for his signal fire. “But then the janitors told me I had to put it out because of the no smoking policy.” When asked why he did not ask the janitors to use their master keys for school access, he said “that would have been the easy way out.” “I attend Central for the academic rigor,” Casmussen said. “One could simply say that survival is the greatest intellectual challenge. It is not the strongest of the species that survives,

Graphic: J. Myers

Photo: J. Myers

nor the most intelligent—-it is the one who is most adaptable.” Because of the new locked door policy, students have taken measures to prevent befalling Casmussen’s fate. As hall travel between classes above-ground is deemed too risky, the often neglected tunnels have been repurposed as ingress and egress corridors between buildings. “I always make sure I’ve packed my handy headlamp before coming to school,” tunnel expert and survivalist tour guide Byger Tell ‘14 said. “I like lighting the way for students.” The once condemned tunnel system is now a bustling Underground Railroad, complete with conductors departing every fifteen minutes from openings in F-building, and at the top of every hour through the entrance right outside teacher Bathryn Kelly-Sharnes room in the Cbuilding courtyard. Upperclassmen have taken the initiative in getting students to and from classes safely. “We remember a time more free. . .” CBuilding Head Conductor Melena Vorcote ‘14 said. “It’s our duty to pave the way for the ones coming after us, towards that light at the end of the tunnel.” In spite of the necessity of using the tunnels

Above: Raul Cassmussen ‘15 struggles to survive in the F-building courtyard on what he can scavenge. “You really don’t mind the taste of dirt after a while,” Casmussen said. “This whole experience has made me a lot closer to Gaia, Mother Earth. It’s a real Zen thing.” Right: Melena Vorcote helps guide the way for exhausted tunnelers Brie Nogood and Tallison Aphouse, all ‘14. “It was dark and scary,” Nogood said. “Then all of a sudden there was a hand on my shoulder, and then came a reassuring voice saying everything would be okay. She led me towards the light.”

to get to classes, administration still deems them as forbidden to students, and is actively trying to intercept the interlopers. “Those tunnels are a no-no zone!” Head Tunnel Enforcer Assistant Principal Burns said. “We have walkie-talkies! You can run, but you cannot hide down there.” To put an end to the tunneling, Burns has written a grant for Central to rent six highly trained K-9 German Shepherds, although who will handle the dogs has not yet been decided. Each administrator will also receive a SureFire UDR Dominator tactical flashlight. Richard Townsend, a past principal at Central, has been rehired to enforce school rules. “I promoted Townsend and Coach James to Tunnel Rangers,” Burns said. “Their badges are super cool!” Townsend was an “ideal choice” for the position, according to Burns, as he has had prior experience with tunnel trouble. “Oh, I remember the tunnel mutiny of the 90’s,” Townsend said. “Total chaos. Kids disappearing into the tunnels for whole class periods. That was back when the Tunnel Cartel were at their peak. It’s my job to make sure that nothing like that ever happens again.”

In an effort to increase teacher accountability and raise educational quality, TCAPS is instituting a new teacher evaluation methodology in which student review will determine 83.5% of a teacher’s salary and benefits. “This new initiative really puts education in the hands of the students,” TCAPS Chief of Schools Sander Scott said, proud of his first official initiative as district manager. “Teacher popularity is an important indicator of quality instruction. As part of our One Page Strategic Plan, we’ll have full Twitter integration by 2020, allowing students to live tweet teacher reviews during class.” Central teachers have jumped on re-engineering their curriculum in accordance with the new plan. “You guys want A’s? I can give you A’s,” AB Calculus teacher Lal Halonde pandered to his newly attentive students. “Whatever you want. Please. I need this.” Students of all grades are heralding Halonde’s example as a new, higher quality education, and giving much praise to how in-class lessons are now benefiting them in outside world experiences. “Lal let me borrow his truck,” FJ Renton ‘15 said. “All my friends were super impressed by my sick new whip!” However, not all Central teachers share Halonde’s enthusiasm for new evaluation standards. “Oh God,” AP Language and Composition teacher Koelle Jolody said. “Oh God. Oh God. Oh God. Oh God.” Physical Education teacher Man DaGee was reportedly giving extra credit to students who chose to walk their timed mile and declaring that dressing out is “probably not that important anyway.”

Aaron Smits Staff Reporter

Ted Cruz’s day off

Headlines from around the world Tokyo Drifting to be added to 2016 Olympic Games Massive molassas spill in Honolulu Harbor, Hawaii; diabetes runs rampant amongst lower class dolphin community

Global Perspectives Pop star Miley Cyrus caused an uproar after her performance at the VMA’s, and caused even more controversy after releasing the music video, “Wrecking Ball,” in which she licks a hammer and rides on a wrecking ball in her skivvies. What do you think?

“All that effort and Hugh Heffner still didn’t invite her to the Bunny Ranch. It’s a shame, really.”

Mo Vorlenza, Volunteer firefighter

“We luv u Miley!!! <3”

VIRGO Stacy Muff, Meter maid

“I’ve seen a lot of crazy things in this town, but I’ve never seen anything quite like that.”

Jaden Smith, Actor

Sage Wisdom

Graphic: J. Myers and S. Hardin

“Licking a hammer, now that’s talent.”

Wanda Phoenix, Marriage counselor

We take this moment to step away from the lightspeed pace of the news cycle. We take a deep breath and close our eyes, to the collective unconscious. We gaze into our crystal ball and feel the mystical force of the universe envelope us and fill us to the brim with a divine and most mystical force, to deliver upon us the wisdom of the sages. Now VIRGO! Listen carefully and heed what we have to say. You may be starting to feel like your life is out of your control. You are right. Life is just a sadistic puppet-master tugging at the cosmic strings. There is nothing we can do about it. We’re really sorry. Somewhere in Kathmandu, Scott & Jake

Graphic: J. Myers

Due to the government shutdown, Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, decided to pack his bags and enjoy what political scientists are calling a “federal snowday.” “After my historic and politically significant twenty-one-hour pseudo-filibuster, I decided I needed a break,” Cruz told The Leek’s DC correspondent George Madison early last Tuesday morning. “Now if you’ll excuse me, I have to go explore America’s great outdoors,” Cruz said. “I’m off to Great Places! Today is my day! My mountain is waiting, so I must get on my way!” Cruz proceeded to enter his climate controlled limousine with blacked out windows and copious amounts of taxpayer-funded Pom Derignon to ensure that he saw or comprehended none of America’s great outdoors. He did not see them in a box. He did not see them with a fox. He did not see them here or there. He did not see them anywhere! After hours of reciting various Dr. Seuss passages in preparation for his upcoming speeches, Cruz arrived at the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. “The Legend of the Sleeping Bear has always been my second favorite bedtime story, right next to Green Eggs and Ham,” Cruz murmured in his delirious stupor upon his arrival. “Come to think of it, I’m feeling sleepy. I just held the Senate floor for twenty-one- hours, did you hear!?” Much to Cruz’s surprise, the National Parks had all shut down. He was asked to leave by the one volunteer security guard who, during the shutdown, is responsible for guarding all 71,187 acres of the park. “Thanks Obama!” Cruz loudly slurred in protest. “You weren’t even born in America! You ruined my vacation! You’re just like my dad!”