November 2020

NOVEMBER 2020

BLOOMFIELD HILLS HIGH SCHOOL

VOLUME VIII - ISSUE 1

Community News Harvesting a New Sense of Community Updates from Bowers Farm and the E.L. Johnson Nature Center

by CAL MARTINEZ Staff Writer When faced with a closure due to the pandemic, Bloomfield’s very own Bowers Farm and Johnson Nature Center got creative and developed brand new, community-oriented activities for students and families alike. Bowers Farm currently has a seasonal schedule for public visitation, a new change from pre-pandemic management. The Johnson Nature Center is now open for outdoor trail activities any day of the week.

The long-term goal of Bowers Farm has always been to create a safe space for the Bloomfield Hills community and to bond over new knowledge of nature and animals. In an attempt to move towards this goal, Bowers collaborated with Michigan State University to set up an ice cream shop on the farm. Bowers is planning on continuing to add on inclusive, socially distant events and activities throughout the year.

Unfortunately, the nature center’s visitor center has had a harder time adapting to the pandemic due to its small size and focus on tactile learning opportunities. The visitor center is currently closed to the public, and is not planning to reopen for community activities until the center can safely follow COVID-19 guidelines.

If visitors are looking for another opportunity to explore nature, they are still welcome to walk the center’s trails.

Alan Jaros, director of Bowers Farm and Johnson Nature Center, has been organizing this reinvention of the farm. He hopes it will make the farm more accessible to the Bloomfield community as a whole, and expand the impact of the farm beyond Bloomfield schools.

“We always had this hope and this dream that we would be a place that was open for casual users, and prior to [the] pandemic we weren’t– you couldn’t just show up and walk the farm.

You had to call ahead and schedule an appointment, or you had to come to one of our open farm days, which didn’t happen very frequently.

So [the] pandemic allowed us to open for casual users,” said Jaros.

Although Bowers Farm has increased its outreach to Bloomfield families over quarantine, caring for animals and organizing activities have proven to be especially challenging during a global pandemic. With the hybrid model and lack of school field trips to Bowers, the farm is in need of assistance from volunteers to keep up with maintenance and socialization for animals.

High school students have the opportunity to participate in classes designed around environmental learning at the Bowers farm and the Johnson Nature center.

“There are two classes here: the intro to Food Natural Resources and the Veterinary Science course. And then at the Nature Center it’s the Environmental Field Research course for next year, [we’re] hoping,” explained Jaros. “So it’s like a pathway of study. So you take the intro course, then you might take Vet Science, you might take Environmental Sciences instead, but regardless you’re outside.”

For more opportunities to work with animals and lend a hand during this time of need, anyone interested is welcome to apply to complete a training course allowing them to become a volunteer at the farm on weekends. Another volunteer opportunity for Bloomfield Hills High School students specifically is the Summer Camp Stewardship Program. Jaros explained the program and the impact it has made on him...

...continued on page 11

See more stories at BHHSToday.org

President-Elect Joe Biden and VP-Elect Kamala Harris walk on stage before a speech Photo via The Mercury News

Making History The 2020 election results examined

by LINDSEY ZOUSMER Managing Editor After months of curiosity, weeks of debate, and days of being on the edge of our seats, the results are finally in: Democratic Nominee, Joe Biden is the new president-elect of the United States of America.

Even before they were eligible to vote, many high school students were active in this year’s election process from behind the scenes.

Junior Rikki Aronoff reflected on her experience working at the polls.

“I learned a lot from the people I was working with about the local election process and how important a few votes can be in deciding election results,” said Aronoff.

Teen activists are being recognized at the national level as well, with many media outlets focusing on this generation’s activism and dedication. Juniors Akita Kotian and Heather Chen were recently featured in an article in Teen Vogue regarding their involvement in the election.

“Young people, especially young people of color, helped build the margin of victory for Biden. My hope is that we can transform his presidency into a time of unprecedented, progressive change,” said

Chen.

Due to COVID, the election process was delayed because of all the mail-in-ballots. States took a longer period of time to count the votes. Normally, we would be informed of the election results the night of election day, but this year, they did not call the winner until Saturday morning, four days after election day.

It all came down to the swing states: Arizona, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, Florida, Arizona, Colorado, Nevada, Ohio, North Carolina, and of course, Michigan. Each candidate needs to reach 270 electoral votes to win, and each state has a different value of electoral votes. The media was able to call it early because when calculating the results, even if every uncounted vote were to be for President Trump, Biden would still win.

Once he reached his 270 electoral votes, even if Trump won every uncalled state, the electoral votes would still be in Biden’s favor.

One state was known for being particularly slow: Nevada.

Every meme on the internet was filled with Nevada’s sloth pace for counting their votes. Fami-

Editorial Policy The Bloomfield Hills High School Hawkeye newspaper is a student publication whose content is chosen by students.

Members of The Hawkeye staff such as the Editors-in-chief, managing editors, photography managers, and section editors oversee the work created for every publication, both in print and online. The adviser and the Editors-in-chief make the final decisions on all content. Opinions expressed in any publication of The Hawkeye do not necessarily reflect the opinions of BHHS, BHHS staff, faculty, or administration.

lies were sitting in front of Fox News and CNN wondering, how could they possibly be taking so long?

The truth is, the process to verify that the count is accurate is extremely precise and timely.

First, the mail in ballots are processed through a machine just to verify signatures. Those that are not sent through that machine are meticulously examined manually by staff. The stack of votes is then reviewed to make sure every single one is accounted for. So, slow? Absolutely. But also very accurate.

History was made by our first female Vice President elect: Kamala Harris. The president and vice president duo has always been fully male, but now, Harris breaks barriers for all of America, and she does not plan to be the last woman in this position.

“No matter your opinions on her past actions or policies, I think we can all agree that her election is such a win to girls, especially young girls of color.

It fills my heart to think of all the children she is going to inspire over the next four years,” said junior Heather Chen.

Citizens watched as the decision was finally made and our

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President and Vice president Elects spoke about their future in office.

“While I may be the first woman in this office, I will not be the last. Because every little girl watching tonight sees that this country is full of possibilities. And to the children of our country, regardless of your gender. Our country has sent you a clear message: dream with ambition, lead with conviction, and see yourself in a way that others may not simply because they haven’t seen it before…” stated Vice President-Elect Harris during her acceptance speech.

Regardless of political party or opinions or standpoint, President-Elect Joe Biden hopes to unite our country during these separated times. In his acceptance speech, he stated the following: “Now let’s give each other a chance. It’s time to put away the harsh rhetoric, lower the temperature, see each other again.

Listen to each other again. And to make progress, we have to stop treating our opponents as our enemies. They are not our enemies. They’re Americans,” said Biden.

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PAGE 2

A Different Look to College Night

The Hawkeye Highlights

by LENNA PETERSON Copy Editor

Changes to BHHS Annual College Night Made Due to Covid-19 Pandemic

by ERYN STERN News Editor On October 12, the annual College Night presentation took place. However, because of the virtual start to the school year, the event looked much different than it has in the past.

Instead of having the ability to walk around the fair and talk face to face with different college representatives, attendees accessed college information sessions from their laptops via Zoom.

Split up into three different 25 minute sessions or four 15 minute sessions, students and families were able to choose up to four different college information sessions to attend.

This meant students could not visit an unlimited number of colleges, which they could do in past years when the event was in person.

Senior Chloe Erickson offered her opinion on the event this year compared to years prior.

“You could attend specific meetings rather than have one on one time with college representatives,” Erickson said.

The virtual format of College Night also made it more difficult for students and parents to ask personal questions to college representatives. Junior Rose Mayoras commented on this aspect of the event.

“I definitely think that it was harder to connect with the college representatives because although their presentations were really good I personally thought that it was harder to see what the college would actually be like,” said Mayoras. “Most of the talk was about ACT and SAT scores and I wish they talked more about the campus.”

While the revised college format brought challenges for juniors, seniors, who are cur-

“I definitely think that it was harder to connect with the college representatives because although their presentations were really good I personally thought that it was harder to see what the college would actually be like”

Rose Mayoras

Class of 2022 rently applying to colleges, have been particularly affected. Senior Barry Sabin explained how the pandemic has affected the college application process.

“The hardest part about applying to college during this time was having to avoid the cliches of COVID in my essays. I knew the colleges were going to be flooded with essays about personal impact with COVID, so I wanted to write mine about topics completely unrelated to make sure I stood out,” said Sabin. “Seeing as a lot of key parts to my resume occurred during the past few months, this was difficult to come by.”

Senior Hailey Polekoff offered a different perspective on the issue.

“Although the college admission process can be stressful, I now feel like a true senior as I submit my last couple of applications, and can not wait to see where I will be for the next four years!,” said Polekoff.

Michigan and Michigan State visited BHHS virtually this year Photo via ESPN

Vials of COVID-19 Vaccines Photo via The Guardian

Moderna’s Coronavirus Vaccine is 94.5% Effective According to data released by the company on November 16, Moderna’s vaccine is 94.5% effective against COVID-19, making it the second vaccine in the United States to have a stunningly high success rate amongst trials. Dr. Anthony Fauci, the nation’s top infectious disease

doctor, stated, “It’s as good as it gets94.5% is truly outstanding.”

In regards to a timeline of vaccine distribution, Fauci shared that vaccinations could begin as soon as the second half of December for those within high risk groups, and that the rest of the popula-

For more information

tion would receive vaccinations by next about [main topic], visit spring if all were to go well. Moderna BHHSToday.org. plans to apply to the US Food and Drug Administration for the authorization of its vaccine after more data is collected later this month.

“I would probably get a COVID vaccine, but I’d wait until more people had gotten it so I would know how safe it was. I’m at high risk already, and most of my family is as well, but as long as the actual scientists say it works, and the FDA approves of it, I would trust the vaccine and take it”.

- Sarah Haddad, ‘23 “I would absolutely get the vaccine. As for when, I think I would wait so that others who need it more (healthcare workers, people with a weaker immune system, senior citizens, etc.) could get it first”.

- Catherine Recknagel, ‘22

Governor Gretchen Whitmer Photo via The Detroit News

On November 15, Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced new restrictions for the state of Michiganstarting Wednesday, November 18, limitations will be placed upon large indoor gatherings and other high-risk activities. For three weeks, nonessential workplaces, indoor dining at bars and restaurants, group fitness classes/ sports, theatres, and in-person learning at high schools and universities will be prohibited per state orders. However, these new orders do permit certain activities, such as salons, K-8 education, and professional sports. These restrictions come at a time of an explosion within the number of new COVID cases per day- a new record of 7,072 coronavirus cases and 65 deaths were reported on Saturday November 15.

In regards to the new orders, Whitmer stated, “We are in the worst moment of this pandemic to date… The situation has never been more dire.”

Warnock Supporters Gather at a rally Photo via Vox

While the climax of the 2020 Presidential election may be over, a decisive race continues in Georgia for two powerful senate seats. If Jon Ossoff and Raphael Warnock beat their Republican incumbent opponents, the Democrats will regain control of the Senate, with Vice-President Elect Kamala Harris serving as tiebreaker in a chamber split 50-50. Though a narrow victory, this situation would give President-Elect Joe Biden a much needed advantage when it comes to furthering his legislative agendas. As a result of this significant runoff, millions of dollars are flowing into Georgia, where Warnock will face Kelly Loeffler and Ossoff will face David Perdue in the January fifth election.

The launch of the SpaceX Crew Dragon Photo via NASA

Monday night, after 27 hours in orbit, the SpaceX Crew Dragon and the four astronauts aboard it have docked at the International Space Station (ISS), where they will remain for the next six months. After a May test mission, this is the first fully operational and crewed mission for SpaceX. NASA and SpaceX have partnered for the past decade to work to return human space exploration to the United States, as well as to ensure that the ISS remains fully staffed.

College Application Deadlines and Changes A peek into the changes made for the application class of 2021

by LAINIE RUBIN Senior Columnist Among all of the changes of 2020, one thing that is for certain is the alteration of college application deadlines and requirements for the incoming freshman class of 2021, and maybe even beyond.

According to the National Association for College Admission Counseling, most universities have extended their early action deadline to November 15, rather than November 1. These dates have been altered due to the postponement of ACT and SAT standardized tests. The later application submission dates were implemented to give students more opportunities to take the tests and eventually send their scores to their university of choice.

Junior Maddie Butler explained some of the challenges that have occured for the testing process because of the global pandemic.

“Due to the global pandemic, there has been difficulty gathering large numbers of students in small areas,” said Butler. “This is one of the reasons why the standardized test dates have been changed, which is hindering students from applying to college.”

In order to comply with all of the alternations that have been made to the college admission process, many colleges and universities have announced a new policy to make the admissions process more equal for all students applying this year: a test optional policy. The College Board has released information about this new policy that some colleges have cho-

sen to adapt.

“Test optional admissions policy means that the applicant will choose whether or not to send in a standardized test score as part of their application,” said the College Board.

Therefore, those students who did not have the opportunity to sit for a standardized test will not be penalized due to global cirminstances.

Although the consequences of COVID-19 have not been ideal, college admissions teams have started to look into extending the testoptional policy into future generations. The University of Massachusetts Amherst shared their new admissions requirements that will

allow them to further examine this policy.

“The university plans to remain test-optional for the next three admissions cycles, during which time it will collect data and conduct research to determine whether future students would benefit from a permanent test-optional policy,” said the admissions team at the University of Massachusetts.

The college admissions process and terms has been debated for years and this pandemic may have sparked a change that could benefit future applicants.

Throughout this chaos, streamlined applicaion proccesses like the Common Application have become more crucial than ever.

Logo via Common App

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PAGE 3

Late Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg Photo via the New York Times

The Notorious RBG A Tribute: Ruth Bader Ginsburg

by ASHLEY FOGEL Staff Writer On September 18, 2020, a seat on the Supreme Court was left empty. Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg lost her battle to pancreatic cancer, immediately resulting in political fire over how to replace her. As an activist for women’s rights, LGBTQ+ rights, and racial justice, Ruth Bader Ginsburg left an everlasting legacy on the judicial system.

Ruth Bader Ginsburg was born on March 15, 1933.

Growing up in a low-income, working class home in Brooklyn, New York, she was a first generation American on her father Nathan Bader’s side of the family. She is only second generation on her mother, Cecilia Bader’s side.

Although her parents did not attend college, education was prioritized in her family.

“Neither of my parents had the means to attend college, but both taught me to love learning, to care about people, and to work hard for whatever I wanted or believed in,” Gins-

burg once said.

Cecilia died the day before Ginsburg’s graduation, and did not get to see many of her future accomplishments. Although she was not physically present, Cecilia had a lasting impact on Ginsburg’s life by teaching her to be independent and to have faith in her abilities. When Ginsburg was nominated to the Supreme Court in 1993, it was Ceclia who she thanked.

Following her graduation, Ginsburg attended Cornell University where her love for writing led her to become interested in law. There she met Martin D. Ginsburg, and they entered a romantic relationship where they respected each other’s intelligence.

“He was the only young man I dated who cared that I had a brain,” Ginsburg once said.

They had their first child, Jane, together shortly after Martin was drafted in the military. He served for two years and then was honorably discharged.

In 1954, Ginsburg graduated and finished first in her class

at Cornell, and soon transferred to Harvard with Martin by her side. Harvard was a male-dominated, hostile

classes to ensure he would not get behind. Martin got better, graduated, and soon got a job at an elegant firm in New

“As an activist for women’s rights, LGBTQ+ rights, and racial justice, Ruth Bader Ginsburg left an everlasting legacy on the judicial system”.

Ashley Fogel

Staff Writer environment, with only nine females in her class of 500 students. The women were scolded by the law school’s dean for taking the places of qualified males. But Ginsburg overcame that hurdle as she learned to balance life as a mother and her new role as a law student. Ginsburg pressed on and excelled academically, eventually becoming the first female member of the prestigious legal journal, the Harvard Law Review. When Martin got diagnosed with cancer, she attended both of their

York. Ginsburg then transferred to Columbia University to finish law school. There, she joined the Law Review, and once again graduated first in her class. Martin was there to support her through everything.

After clerking for the U.S. District Judge Edmund L. Palmieri, she taught at Columbia and became the school’s first female tenured professor. During the 1970s, she also served as the director of the Women’s Rights Project of the American Civil Liber-

ties Union. There, she argued six landmark cases on gender equality before the U.S. Supreme Court. She was a firm believer that the law was gender-blind and that all groups were entitled to equal rights.

One of the five cases she won before the Supreme Court involved a portion of the Social Security Act that favored women over men because it granted certain benefits to widows but not widowers.

President Jimmy Carter appointed Ruth Bader Ginsburg to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia, where she served until she was appointed to the U.S. Supreme Court by President Bill Clinton in 1993. She was confirmed by the Senate, with a majority vote of 96-3. She was the second female justice and the first Jewish female justice.

Ginsburg was considered part of the Supreme Court’s moderate-liberal block as she presented a strong voice in favor of gender equality, the rights of workers, and the separation of church and state. In 1996, Ginsburg wrote the Supreme

Court’s landmark decision in United States v. Virginia, ruling that the state-supported Virginia Military Institute could not refuse to admit women.

Ginsburg had been diagnosed with cancer five times over the past 21 years. Even with treatments, the Supreme Court’s oldest justice rarely missed work. After 27 years serving as a justice on the Supreme Court, Ruth Bader Ginsburg died on September 18, 2020 due to complications from metastatic pancreas cancer. During an interview with Vogue, Ginsburg was asked how she would like to be remembered. Ginsburg responded with certainty.

“Someone who used whatever talent she had to do her work to the very best of her ability. And to help repair tears in her society, to make things a little better through the use of whatever ability she has,” Ginsburg once said.

Her legacy of advocating for what’s right will never be forgotten. Rest in Peace to the “Notorious RBG.”

Social Sacrafice How social distancing has affected the social lives of students

by BENJI STERN Staff Writer The social aspect of any student’s life is a crucial piece of the puzzle that is the high school experience, and it does not go away during a pandemic.

The isolation that high schoolers have experienced since Covid-19 came to Michigan has resulted in dramatic changes to the social lives of students and continues to have effects to this day.

Prior to the stay-at-home order that was issued on March 23, junior Kate Jenkins said that she used to see her friends about six times a week. But when she was not able to leave the house, that number was reduced to just a couple times a week. After a while, Jenkins became used to not seeing people regularly and shared her change in mindset.

“I felt like I never wanted to see anybody. I was fine to just FaceTime people [and] not to have to make plans,” Jenkins said.

This mindset became common among many students over their time at home, which consequently produced a shift from in-person social interaction to a new platform.

Students are seeing less and less of each other in person, and, like Jenkins, they have found different ways to

continue to interact and communicate with their friends. Apps such as FaceTime, Snapchat, TikTok, and Instagram have become a staple of the high schooler’s social life. Beth Mitchell, a math teacher and a mother of two students, discussed how the lockdown impacted her children, emphasizing how her daughters spent all of their time in their rooms using social media.

“I would keep asking them, ‘are you okay’? I was worrying that they were suffering from depression,” said

Mitchell. Her daughters would reply that there was nothing to worry about as they had been FaceTiming with friends all day.

These social media apps gave students a medium to see their friends in a time when it was difficult to see them in person.

Although social media provided an opportunity for high schoolers to communicate with their friends, overusing it can have negative effects on their lives. Mathew Rochlen, a senior at

Walled Lake Northern High School, was concerned that social media actually did more harm than good.

“When you aren’t with your friends, you’re more focused on yourself, and these social media bring about tiny insecurities,” said Rochlen. “The platforms that aren’t about interacting with others and are more about viewing others have had a negative impact on my life.”

For some students, spending hours on social media can exacerbate the self

consciousness that so many adolescents struggle with, which can change how they behave with their peers. The Covid-19 pandemic and the solitude that came with it influenced the social lives of students everywhere. The pandemic is not over, and its effects continue to be present in the lives of students.

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PAGE 6

Student Leadership keeping Black Hawk spirit alive

How student leadership is contributing to the community

by NOA GOLDSTEIN Section Editor Our school, summer plans, and everything in between were heavily impacted by Covid-19.

Because of the virus, many pre-existing plans have been canceled or rescheduled. One group in particular, Student Leadership, who planned many fun events this year such as Homecoming and the Dance to name a few, had to postpone events as well. However, even with these limitations, Leadership is pushing forward to promote Black Hawk Spirit throughout BHHS all while still prioritizing the safety of students.

Student Leadership senior Co-President Maggie Eisenberg shared how Student Leadership has prioritized everyone’s safety this year.

“Many of our ILPs (Individualized Leadership Projects) that we are planning to administer this year have been altered, so they are socially distant and safe for their participants,” said Eisenberg. “The plans that have been impacted the most are Homecoming and The Dance. We hope to be able to host these fun events for the Black Hawks in the future when it is safe to do so.”

Student Leadership senior Vice President/ Fundraising Coordinator, Allie Yaker, further explained the restraints this year and how student leadership will combat these.

“We do a lot of fundraisers during the year so that is a big thing we’ve had to change,” explained Yaker. “COVID has made it more difficult to run fundraisers in person like we usually do, so we’ve had to come up with ideas for fundraisers that can work virtually.”

“Student Leadership believes that keeping Black Hawks unified is crucial.”

Maggie Eisenberg

Student Leadership CoPresident While enduring these limitations from COVID-19, Student Leadership believes that keeping Black Hawks unified is crucial.

“One way in which Student Leadership is keeping the Black Hawk Spirit alive is focusing on unifying the school,” Eisenberg stated.

“It is important as leaders in the community to ensure that no one feels alone during this unprecedented time.”

Junior Class Co-President Akita Kotian added to this, stating how important it is for every student to feel supported.

“Stuco is keeping the Black Hawk spirit alive by planning events and fundraisers to support the community during these tough times. We are working to make sure each student feels supported and comfortable with the Hybrid environment,” said Kotian.

Eisenberg discussed an example of something that she does during online school that can help students and their teachers feel more connected and united.

“Small acts like turning my Zoom camera on builds one of the BHHS cornerstones of ‘Relationships’ with my peers and teachers. It is important during these hard times to relate to one another to develop a sense of community.

Turning on your camera does just that,” said Eisenberg.

Bringing back the spirit at BHHS for Student Leadership has always been prioritized.

This sense of community and connectedness is what Student Leadership strives for with every Black Hawk. Yaker explained how this affects Stuco’s plans for the rest of the year.

“Being that the start of the year was crazy for everyone, it took us some time as student leadership to figure out our tentative plan for the year,” said Yaker. “We have started coming up with some ideas and are working on ways to unite BHHS and bring back the spirit.”

Leadership’s main goal is to make everyone feel welcome at school and unite the Bloomfield community by planning exciting events to unify students and staff. Although, like everything else, Student Leadership has been presented with many challenges this year, they continue to keep the Black Hawk spirit alive so that everyone can have a fun and safe school year.

Masked BHHS Robotics Team Members engineer a machine Photo by Hayden Buckfire

Robotics Team takes COVID-19 Precautions How the Bionic Black Hawks are adapting

by HAYDEN BUCKFIRE Staff Writer Amidst COVID-19 and social distancing, Bloomfield Hills High School’s clubs have adapted to a new normal while still holding meetings. For the Bionic Black Hawks robotics team, this year, like many other things, will look very different than most. In-person practices resumed in early September and the way team meetings were held changed to adhere to safety guidelines. Kelley Cook, coach of the Bionic Black Hawks, explained some of the new safety protocols. “We were in the middle of the season last year and we were canceled, everything was canceled,” said Cook. “Once we came back to school, there were rules and the main rule was that only 10 people [were allowed] inside the room at [a time], making life a little bit difficult.” During the longer-than-usual offseason, the team designed and manufactured PPE (personal protective equipment) by utilizing 3D printers. “I printed 100 mask extenders for medical professionals and shipped them to Beaumont Hospital. The extenders connect to masks and

look like. However, other teams extend it around the back of in Michigan that operate under the head to help with ear pain FIRST (For Inspiration and Recafter a long day of wearing the ognition of Science and Techmask,” said sophomore member nology), the organization that Eli Fox. Team members also had oversees robotics events and opportunities to complete other competitions, will not be able to projects and activities during sign up to participate in any futheir offseason. The freshmen ture in-person and new competitions members use time “Once we came back to school, until January 2021. during m e e t i n g s there were rules and the main Virtual comto develop rule was that only 10 people petitions are and rein- [were allowed] inside the room on the table occaforce their at [a time], making life a little too; sional skill skills by bit difficult.” competiworking on tions among a practice teams, where robot. Exstudents get perienced machinery to members complete a are not alBHHS Robotics Team task, is one of lowed to Member mentor these. Tasks these less include movexperienced members this year ing the robot, picking up a cerdue to safety protocols. It is untain number of cubes objects, or clear whether there will end up several other possible actions being in-person competitions for and then proceeding to record the upcoming 2020-21 season, videos of the creations and upand the team has been forced to load them. Although the team will be participating in these operate with a limited view of challenges throughout the seawhat the winter and spring may

Kelley Cook

son, the hope is still to compete with other robotics teams during in-person competitions later this year. Although this year will look much different from those in years past, the Bionic Black Hawks are still hopeful for future activities. Specifically, the team is looking forward to the opportunity to design their own robot game. “We are looking forward to trying to design our own game since none of us have ever done that before,” said junior team member Chloe Patterson. Whatever the future may hold, the team has expressed their excitement about starting a new season while adhering to COVID-19 guidelines and proceeding safely. Noah Charness, a senior on the Bionic Black Hawks expressed his positive outlook on the new situation. “This year allows us to improve our team outside of just the competition robot, it gives us the chance to improve outreach and other aspects of the team besides competitions,” said Charness.

Superintendent Watson becomes award finalist Watson speaks on nomination and handling of pandemic

by MAXIMILLIAN SCHENKE Staff Writer Since becoming superintendent in December of 2019, Patrick Watson has led the Bloomfield Hills School District in handling the Coronavirus pandemic in a district of over five thousand students. Because of Watson’s efforts to protect students, staff, and families as the Coronavirus pandemic raged on across the world, residents of the Metro Detroit area nominated him for the SEEN Changemaker award. He is one of three finalists in the education category.

The SEEN Changemaker award is an annual award created by the SEEN Magazine, which seeks to recognize and celebrate outstanding members of the Bloomfield community who are making a difference and changing the world and who might otherwise go unnoticed. Voters can nominate anyone in the community they believe is deserving of the award throughout the month of August and the SEEN team then narrows it down to three or four nominees in each of the seven categories.

Then, members of the community vote on the winner for each category through October 16.

The winners are featured in the December issue of SEEN magazine and promoted on their social media pages.

Superintendent Watson discussed the nomination process and how the nomination impacted him.

“We as nominees actually receive the letters of the people who nominated us, and to me it was obviously a former student that

nominated me,” said Watson. “Compare that to other awards which maybe are voted on or selected from adults, that makes it really special because my priority has always been the students.”

Watson’s nomination highlighted many of his accomplishments as the principal of West Bloomfield High School, the position he held prior to becoming Bloomfield Hills Superintendent. In his time at WBHS, the school had the most AP scholars in school history, developed a freshman mentor program, became the first school in the nation to implement the Prepare U mental health program, partnered with Harvard University to implement the Making Care Common program, and started a schoolwide signing day.

BHS Superintendent Patrick Watson Photo by Bloomfield Hills High School

Although he is currently serving in a different role, Watson’s priorities when it comes to the student experience have not changed.

“I had a great adventure in high school in Ann Arbor growing up in the 80s and I wouldn’t trade it for anything, and one of my biggest priorities is that students at BHS have an equally incredible K-12 experience, but especially in high school,” said Watson.

The winners of the 2020 SEEN Changemaker Awards will be announced in their December issue as well as on all of their social media platforms.

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PAGE 7

National Merit Semifinalists Top Scoring Students Awarded National Merit Honors

by OLIVIA WHITE Staff Writer

Socially-Distant BHHS Theater Students Perform at the Main Entrance Photo by Jen Camens

Arts program adapts to hybrid schedule Performing arts wing makes adjustments for COVID-19

by CASSIE ENGLISH Copy Editor While other classrooms have become more sanitized and spaced out to suit the restrictions of the school’s hybrid model, theatre, choir, band, and orchestra classes require extra precautions. A typical arts class might involve a highcontact ensemble theatrical scene, singing in close proximity to other classmates, sharing musical scores between multiple orchestra members, or cleaning the spit from an instrument inside the band room– all activities which now must become compliant with social distancing and mask guidelines due to COVID-19.

Carli Camens, a sophomore who is currently enrolled in Acting 3, feels that theatre classes are more enjoyable when attending in person school and finds Zoom performances to be more difficult in comparison.

“Safety precautions for theater classes run in person are distancing and wiping down all the chairs,” said Camens. “It has been differ-

ent because there’s less interaction between everyone since scenes have to be distanced and when you’re on Zoom you do it through breakout rooms.”

The organization of choir classrooms have also been altered to better suit the regulations. Cole Bewick, a senior, has been involved in both choir and theatre throughout his high school career. Bewick is enrolled in Acting 3 and Chorale this school year.

“I truthfully think that the way my choir and theatre classes are being run currently is very effective, however it is sometimes difficult to participate in activities in theatre classes over zoom,” Bewick shared.

Despite the virtual format, Bewick appreciates that choir classes migrate to the auditorium during hours when an average classroom would lack room to maintain social distancing.

“The chairs are always evenly spread throughout the room to ensure social distancing, and we have special singing masks that

are sanitized thoroughly after every use,” Bewick explained.

In another branch of the music wing, the band department is just wrapping up their marching band season, which takes place outdoors. Students fill out a digital form for contact tracing and have their temperatures checked before every practice. Senior Julia Goodman has played alto and baritone saxophone since the fourth grade and has been a member of the BHHS band program since freshman year.

“It’s actually not that different from past classes, excluding wearing masks off the field and having masks over the bells of our instruments that produce the most air,” stated Goodman.

“We managed through an at home band camp as opposed to our past band camps where we would spend a week away at a university campus.”

Though these classes may be more complicated to run with some students in class and some online through the hybrid

schedule, the performing arts wing has adapted and added many extra precautions to ensure the safety of every person who does choose to attend school in person. Teachers are working with the safety guidelines and planning new learning experiences to be as enriching as possible, both for students online and in the classroom.

“There’s definitely a disconnect between those in person and those on zoom in the amount of participation and attentiveness,” said Goodman.

“But I feel like the performing arts teachers, from what I’ve seen, have been the most safe since going back to in person schooling.”

Tough Twirler Sophomore Ella Tupper redefined the term “Hard Work” over quarantine

by NOAH ROSLIN Opinion Editor Students across America found themselves with more free time after the Covid-19 virus shut down much of the flow of everyday life.

Some took this as an opportunity to have a six month staycation, highlighted with sleep schedules akin to the California time zone, and all had a lack of significant productive activities as most had been shut down. Even though school continued through the first couple months of quarantine, districts did not have ample time to prepare a full online curriculum, giving students extra free time. Not all took this time merely to relax, however.

Current sophomore Ella Tupper took this free time not as a vacation, but as an opportunity to improve her pre-existing skills in the Color Guard.

After the virus hit the United States and Michigan shut down, all sports were immediately postponed, through the ranks from the professional level all the way down to high school tryouts for spring sports. The marching band was no different. Because the risk of contracting the virus increased and there was a lack of ability to properly social distance, most band-related practices were cancelled.

However, Tupper practiced every single day.

200 days straight, through harsh Michigan weather, the one thing her neighbors could count on each and every day, was looking out their window and seeing a colorful flag flying

through the air.

Color Guard is the section of the marching band that creates a visual show through rhythmically wave flags and practice coordinated dancing with the music that the band plays.

Color Guard members must lug around an extremely heavy flagpole and twirl it with precision and coordination. When asked how she

“All that really matters to me is that I get to keep spinning”

Ella Tupper

Color Guard Sophomore prepares, she reflected on her multiple practices a day, with additional practices before or after school. According to Tupper, the physical toll is no joke. “...Some of my greatest hits include hitting myself in the back of the head so hard it bled, constant bruises on the left side of my ribs… and a flag to the throat after a parallel toss gone wrong,” said Tupper.

Color Guard also entails the pressure of hundreds of pairs of eyes on you, and the natural

elements that come into play, such as wind, rain, and heat, or lack thereof. Tupper began Color Guard a year and a half ago, at the beginning of her freshman year. She fell in love with the sport, and months after taking it up, she knew it was her passion, to the point that she spent hundreds of hours practicing.

“The amount of time it takes me to choreograph and film depends on how difficult the choreography is,” explained Tupper. “I’ve sometimes spent 3 or 4 hours on one piece of choreography. A few days a week, I also practice for another 1-3 hours after school.”

Tupper hopes that her next level-dedication will lead her further in Color Guard, and possibly one day participate in the Drum Corps International (DCI). DCI is a not-for-profit organization that is responsible for regulating the rules of competition and providing educated judges in such competitions. Though she is relatively new to the sport, she is working towards getting an open audition with any group.

“All that really matters to me is that I get to keep spinning, with any group at all,” stated Tupper.

For most students, the SAT and other standardized tests take significant preparation and studying. The National Merit Scholarship is awarded to students who earn the top scores per state for the SAT. To be eligible for this scholarship, the student must have taken the PSAT in October of their junior year, and receive a top score on the test. The National Merit Scholar Semifinalist represents the top .5 percent of the highest scoring seniors. As a National Merit Scholar finalist students receive not only a scholarship from the corporation, but also scholarships from universities and colleges that cover certain expenses.

The 2020 National Merit Scholar Semifinalists are Michael Lee, Paul Silaghi, Jameson Kanary, Olivia Bronstein, and Jakar Dhillon. The students commended for excellent scores are Haakam Aujla, Timothy Martin, Barry Sabin, and Anja Weller.

Paul Silahgi, one of the National Merit Semifinalists, started preparing for the SAT in August before his junior year. Also, to get a feel for the style of questions on the PSAT, Silahgi took practice tests before the real test date.

“When it came time to take the PSAT in October, I was able to apply my knowledge from the SAT to the PSAT,” said Silahgi.

Silaghi explained some of the requirements to become a National Merit Scholar and his process for preparing for a standardized test.

“To become a finalist, your transcript, extracurricular activities, as well as an essay, are evaluated,” said Silaghi. “Persistence and diligence were very important throughout my entire experience with standardized testing.

Because I prepared for the SAT and PSAT entirely on my own, I had to be organized and manage my time well.”

Similar to Silaghi, Michael Lee took many practice tests from previous SATs and PSATs. Lee emphasized his concerns about the test.

“I had challenges with anxiety before this

“This success has made me believe I can accomplish my goals when my back is against the wall”

Michael Lee National Merit Semi-finalist test. This was an award that I felt I could not let pass, and I spent the nights before the test wondering how I was going to end up doing,” stated Lee. Lee hopes that being a semifinalist has made him a more appealing option for colleges. To become a semifinalist, he had to score in the 99 percentile in the state for the PSAT. Lee explained his study preparations and how he felt about his accomplishment.

“Reading is my worst subject, and I knew that that was what I had to focus on, if I was to score high enough to become a semifinalist,” said Lee. “This success has made me believe that I can accomplish my goals when my back is against the wall, as before I had never been great at performing under pressure.”

Jameson Kanary, a third National Merit Semifinalist, was also one of the 15,000 out of the 1,600,000 juniors nationwide who took the test, to earn the honor. Kanary recommended that students taking this test spend 10-15 minutes per day practicing.

“In the long run, it really helped me prepare,” claimed Kanary.

Although Kanary was prepared for the test, he still ran into some challenges along the way.

“My biggest struggle was being content with whatever the outcome was after I left the gymnasium that day,” said Kanary. “I prepared the best I could and answered everything to the best of my ability, so whatever happens, happens, you know?”

Kanary felt accomplished that he achieved something like this in high school. He believes it is something he will remember.

“Looking back I can smile and say to myself, ‘Yeah I did that,’” said Kanary.

The National Merit Scholarship rewards students who score in the top one percent in their state. The honor of this reward provides students with excellent scholarship opportunities for college and is an achievement that will be remembered for a lifetime.

PAGE 8

Fall Fun in Michigan

by SONYA BARLOW Photography Manager

The Pumpkin Patch at Bowers Farm looked especially vibrant this year

Michiganders are fall-ing for autumn colors

NOVEMBER | A

Autumn activities carry on

A pony at Bowers Farm munching on some grass

Crowds are not a problem for the Franklin Cider Mill, as they have implemented a newly-distanced, outdoor queue

Family and friends taking advantage of all the wonderful weather, cinnamon donuts, and apple cider that the Franklin Cider Mill has to offer.

Spooky fall decorations line the streets around Halloween

Customers at the Franklin Cider Mill practicing social distancing and other COVID-19 protocols Keeping spirits high with live music at the Franklin Cider Mill

Section B NOVEMBER 2020

BLOOMFIELD HILLS HIGH SCHOOL

VOLUME VIII - ISSUE 1

It’s Up And It’s Good!

Kicker Sara Huston Scores Winning Extra Point

by EVAN KATZ Staff Writer Sports are bigger than any game, bigger than any practice, and bigger than any scrimmage. Sports give us moments to keep and remember for the rest of our lives. A small change like scoring an extra point on the field may only be worth one point, but for Sara Huston, that point meant so much more.

Leading up to this moment, Berkley drove up the field scoring a touchdown at the start of overtime, but the Black Hawks defense blocked the extra point. Then, it was the Black Hawks turn on offense. They scored a touchdown and it was Huston’s time to shine.

“I was extremely on edge before and after the kick because I had known it was coming. After I made the kick, it was hard to shake off all of the stress that had piled up,” said Huston.

After all, the ball went through the uprights: good for the game-winner.

On the sidelines, varsity football coach Dan Loria was thrilled.

“I had no doubt In my mind that she would make that kick,’’ said Loria.

Huston emphasized the idea that practice and preparation are very important to achieve success. She explained some of her mental and physical preparations before making

a kick.

“Every kick I take, I think of it as completely separate and immerse my head into making that kick. I also pace around and try to get rid of my nerves because it is bad to kick with them. I do two things when I am physically on the field. I don’t look up once my feet are at the tee. Coach Haji Sheikh taught me that,” said Huston. “Secondly, I go to a happy place if I am really stressed.”

Huston also uses other techniques to help manage her stress and motivate herself.

“Trash talk usually motivates me, actually. When I am focused on

Kicker Sara Huston celebrates with teammates after making a game-winning kick Photo by Susan Adams

something other than my nerves, I kick with confidence,” said Huston.

Confidence in her kicking has translated into more than just a winning feeling on the field. Huston reflected on her football career thus far.

“My experience on the team has challenged me in so many ways.

Football really is a sport that changes a person. On my first season of varsity, I missed my one and only extra point. I was crushed and thought about quitting. But, continuing to play has taught me perseverance.

I have now received special teams player of the week twice and have a stellar record of 15 out 16 pats with

one block, zero misses,” said Huston.

“Scoring that winning point has given me one of the best moments of my life. It has taught me so much about growth and hard work. Ultimately, my team has grown with me.”

With this life-changing experience, Huston hopes this moment inspires other people to never give up on what they are passionate about.

“You never know what you could be missing out on if you don’t try,” said Huston. “No one remembers the failures of an individual, rather the change is what is significant.”

NOVEMBER | B

PAGE 10

GIRLS DIVING

POMS

Both Varsity and JV Poms teams have been hard at work despite COVID-19 restrictions. Both teams have gone to scheduled practices and meetings outside of those hours. Captain of the Varsity team Sammy Green said, “Since we practice inside the school, we have to wear masks and it can get super hard to breathe inside the aux gym. It is also very difficult because we can’t do traditional kickline. On the bright side we make the best of a tough situation.” Pictured above is the Junior Varsity girls team after performing at the Varsity football game against Royal Oak on September 25. The girls have been continuing with their performances by wearing masks and having socially distanced practices.

Photo by Natalie Cooper

FOOTBALL

Even with the unusual season that the girls dive team is having, the athletes are still working hard. Head coach David Zulkiewski and dive coach Scott McHugh are leading them to victory. At their most recent competition against Rochester Stoney Creek on October 15, Bloomfield Hills High School took first place. On October 9 they were ranked number 15 in our county at the most recent girls dive championships.

Photo by Theresa Daily

VOLLEYBALL

On October 16, 2020, The Bloomfield Hills Black Hawks defeated the Berkeley Bears 35-34. This picture shows wide receiver Andrew Siepierski after catching one of quarterback Tanner Slazinski’s five touchdown passes. The home field advantage really helped Bloomfield pull the win through in such a close game. Junior Andrew Siepierski showed off his skills this season as he caught more touchdowns than any other wideout. He became Slazinki’s favorite target. At the end of the season, Siepierski said, “I am proud of our team for overcoming the pandemic and playing as a unit to improve this year.”

BHHS Sports Update

Photo by Susan Adams

GIRLS SWIMMING

COVID-19 can’t stop Bloomfield from having a successful sports season

CROSS COUNTRY Coached by David Zulkiewski, the Girls Swim Team has gotten off to a hot start, going 5-1 in meets against other schools, while staying unbeaten in the OAA White Division. Adhering to state guidelines, the team started practicing on August 12 and have been practicing six days per week since then. The team also finished 15 among schools at the Oakland County Championships and is looking forward to completing their season and defending their OAA Championship from 2019 as the season comes to a close. “The season went very well, even with all the challenges [we faced], we stayed positive, had a good time, and got down to business. We won all of the dual meets, we won the league meet, and a few of the girls are going to states,” said Rachel Hall, a senior and team captain.

Coached by David Richardson, the Junior Varsity and Varsity Cross Country teams capped off successful seasons. Standout runners like Barry Sabin and Jakar Dhillon provided leadership for the Black Hawks. Senior Sam Yamin said that “being in cross country gave us a sense of normalcy and a chance to be around a great group of people.” Despite uncertainties due to the pandemic, the cross country team and individual runners performed at a high level and are looking forward to next season.

Photo by Theresa Daily

Photo by Sam Yamin

This past year has been anything but normal, but the return of professional and college sports has returned a bit of sanity. The fall has always been an electric time of the year for sports fans, but this fall has been extra special. Professional sports began their return this summer with the creation of “playoff bubbles” for multiple sports: a completely new concept where all teams quarantine at one to two facilities where they play to limit and prevent the spread of the Coronavirus.

The first to return was the NBA. Commissioner Adam Silver did an incredible job getting his bubble created at Disney World in Orlando, Florida. A shortened regular season began mid-August and the finals finished on October 11. So many incredible stories came from this resumed season. Specifically, the Suns historic regular season run, the emergence of Jamaal Murray and the Nuggets, and the Cinderella story Miami Heat led by Jimmy Butler, Bam Adebayo, and young shooters Tyler Herro and Duncan Robinson shocking the East and making the NBA Finals. No story was bigger than Lebron James capping off an incredible season with his fourth ring and a finals MVP for the Lakers.

The NHL utilized two hub cities

for their return in bubbles with a qualifying round that began on the first of August for seeding and matchups followed by their normal playoffs. After so many years of falling just short, the Tampa Bay Lightning finally got over the hump and lifted the Stanley Cup over the Dallas Stars with help from electrifying goaltender Andrei Vasilevsky, Russian forward Nikita Kucherov, and Conn Smythe winning defenseman Victor Hedman.

The MLB began its shortened 60-game regular season on July 24, with playoffs running until the end of October. Despite a few COVID-19 scares, the MLB managed to complete their season safely. The postseason has been thrilling so far, with the emergence of rookie sensation Randy Arozarena leading the Rays to the World Series against the LA Dodgers star-studded lineup that includes Mookie Betts, Cody Bellinger, and Clayton Kershaw.

NCAA and NFL football have just recently made their return, with each college conference playing a conference-only schedule. Trevor Lawrence and Clemson have looked dominant so far, but Justin Fields and Ohio State look to dethrone the Tigers as Big 10 football begins. We are already seven weeks into the NFL season, and the Steelers remain the only undefeated team, but scary Super Bowl defending champs Chiefs look to defend their title while MVP frontrunner Russel Wilson and the rest of the NFC set their sights on the Lombardi Trophy.

Photo by Jane Appel

Season Recap

World of Sports

by BRANDON YAKER Section Editor

Varsity volleyball pursued another successful season despite these unusual times. Kicking off this competitive season, the varsity team of 24 played West Bloomfield High School on September ninth, finishing the game with a 2-0 win. Led by coach Larry Wyatt, the varsity team continues to train and prepare for the intense competition at Districts beginning November second. Brigette Zamor, a Junior on the varsity team, shared, “I love the volleyball team because I have built great friendships with all my teammates.” The girls are slated to be in the OAA red division next year and are currently ranked seventh in the county.

by GABE SINGER Staff Writer Although this fall sports season might have looked much different from years prior, one thing remained consistent: The Black Hawks continued their success and achievement in athletics.

The cross country team ran like a well-oiled machine this fall. The girls varsity team qualified for regionals, and junior Kate Jenkins broke 19 minutes in her 5k run. The boys cross country senior caption Barry Sabin achieved a season record and led the boys team to a sweep against Troy Athens. Additionally, senior captain Jakar Dillion, along with senior Shay Martin, qualified for regionals.Sabin, described the impact COVID had on the season. “[The COVID affected season was] unexpected and spontaneous, but overall a great bonding experience with people of all grades,” said Sabin.

On the tennis courts, the Black Hawks backed up their reputation as one of the top programs in the state.

Led by senior captains Max Nosanchuck, Gus Berger, and Michael Lee, the boys varsity team achieved a 15-4 record, good enough to crown them region champions. They were quarter finalists in the Division one state tournament, meaning they were top eight in the state. “[The season was] filled with many

changes but [we] made the most of [it] even though the circumstances were against us,” said senior player Lucas Soloman.

Of the many experiences that COVID interfered with, not being allowed to play in quads or do team dinners were the biggest downfalls, according to Soloman.

The girls volleyball team bumped, set, and spiked their way through their season. Led by seniors Mckenzie Guettler and Tatum Kalt, the group stayed confident and poised all season long. Highlighted by a win over Rochester Adams, the team was able to persevere through the challenges that COVID brought, which included cancelled games and different events than normal.

Lastly, the varsity football team had a “united” season, according to Quarterback Tanner Slazinski.

“We really were definitely a dedicated and tight-knit group,” said Slazinski.

This was shown on the field, as the Black Hawks finished the year with a 3-4 record, achieving their highest win total since 2017. The overtime win over Berkley was a “huge moment,” said Slazinski, as kicker Sarah Huston kicked the game winning PAT.

Senior quarterback Tanner Slazinski rallies his teammates before a game Photo by Susan Adams

NOVEMBER | B

PAGE 11

Splashing up Success Thompson sets new swimming records

by ISA HALSBAND Social Media/Business Manager After competing on the BHHS swim team for two years, sophomore Brooke Thompson has already managed to break numerous records. Among them are the 500, 200, and 100 meter freestyle.

The previous record for the 500 freestyle was set

by BHHS alumna Lara Janosz in the 2019 League Meet. Thompson swam almost five seconds faster, with a time of 5:22.77 in comparison to Janosz’s 5:27.01. The previous 100 and 200 freestyle records were set last year by Thompson herself.

She cut nearly one minute off of her old 200 time and managed to beat her old 100 time by a mere 0.22 seconds.

“I’m really happy that I broke the records,” said Thompson. “My goal is to break them again and go even faster this time.”

The girls swim team head coach David Zulkiewski, better known as Z, has stood by her side the entire way and expressed how grateful he is to accompany her on her journey to success.

“It’s just a pleasure working with her, and she’s a great kid. She loves her team, she has her varsity jacket, and she just embodies everything we like to see from a Bloomfield Hills athlete,” said Z. She trains in the pool nine times, six days a week, and completes in more yardage than any of her teammates.

“I’ve been training every day and swimming in the morning with my team,” Thompson explained.

“While everyone’s getting ready for leagues, I’m still practicing in the morning for states.”

On top of her packed swim schedule, Thompson also attends International Academy, meaning that she has to switch between buildings in order to stay on top of her schoolwork.

“She is working very hard, even with everything going on,” shared Z. “This year, with the pool shut down, she found every way to keep training and stay focused. Every day, she was excited to get in the water and work hard, and it really sets the tone for the team with her work ethic.”

Her teammates also recognize the hard work she puts in and celebrate Thompson and all of her accomplishments.

“Brooke works so hard every day at practice and has beaten multiple school records both last year and this year,” stated senior swim team member Kate Ullem. “She is just all around an amazing person.”

Her teammates can even recall memories of her that reflect not only her strong work ethic, but her bubbly personality as well.

“There was a meet where she was up against another very fast swimmer,” Ullem explained.

“Right before the race, she threw up. She ended up winning the race by quite a few seconds, and then she came back to the stands and said, ‘Well, that was a waste of applesauce.’”

Brooke’s enthusiasm towards her teammates shines through just as much as her passion and love for swimming.

“It’s a sport where you can see how hard you’re working and work on yourself,” Thompson shared. “I love the people on the team, and it’s [all around] just something I love. It’s [such a large] part of my life. I don’t know what I would be without it.”

Brooke Thompson gets ready to start her swim Photo by Beth Kalusniak

Breaking Records Kate Jenkins becomes the fastest cross country runner at BHHS

by ERYN STERN Section Editor On October second, junior Kate Jenkins broke a school record and became the fastest BHHS girls cross country runner with a time of 18:56. Jenkins has been part of the BHHS Girls Cross Country team since freshman year, and with this run, Jenkins proved to everyone that she is one of the best not only this year, but in school’s history.

Jenkins explained what was going through her mind during this achievement.

“Throughout the race I just felt very relaxed and happy, smiling for most of it, I felt so lucky to be doing what I loved so much, and that all my hard work I had put in from quarantine, and over the summer, was paying off,” said Jenkins.

Jenkins also discussed the personality traits necessary to accomplish a goal like hers and how she balances her busy schedule.

“It can be hard to juggle running with school, family, and friends, but I try to always have a schedule so I am organized and not stressed. I am a very determined individual, and when I have a goal in mind I will do anything possible to reach it,” explained Jenkins.

Jenkins’s teammate, freshman Carley Richardson, spoke about her experience with Jenkins on the team, emphasizing her strong leadership for the team.

“Kate’s a really great leader and she’s super positive and [is] always working her hardest. Having someone as fast as Kate on the team is really inspiring,” said Richardson.

Junior Donald Kim, also a teammate of Jenkins, talked about Jenkins and her accomplishments as a runner.

“I have known Kate since eighth grade, primar-

ily from cross country. She is a person that is fun and very hard working. She is a good teammate, usually rooting on others and encouraging them,” said Kim. Kim went on to explain some of Jenkins’s characteristics, emphasizing her hard work ethic.

“I’ve seen her working extremely hard to improve as I have even caught her running up hills in my neighborhood on days off of practice. Even during practice, she outdoes herself by pacing with the boys varsity team. Kate is overall an extraordinarily hard worker and great teammate,” said Kim. Jenkins still has another season left on the cross country team and is currently working towards future goals.

“My main goal for my running career is to attend a D1 college on [a] scholarship, but I also have some short term goals: qualifying for states this upcoming track season and winning a state title with my indoor club team this indoor season,” said Jenkins.

Kate Jenkins races towards the finish line Photo by Paul Kolin

Harvesting a New Sense of Community (Continued From Page 1) Pumpkins in front of the Bowers Farm entrance Photo by Sonya Barlow

Deer enclosure at the E.L. Johnson Nature Center Photo by Sonya Barlow

...“So we pair you with a group of kids and one of our educators, and then you spend the week doing things like going out on llama hikes, and harvesting food from the garden, and cooking all kinds of cool recipes,” said Jaros. “Because let’s be honest, the truth is that I learned every day alongside the students out here, and I’ve been doing this work for a long time.”

The new activities now available at Bowers Farm and wildlife experiences offered at the Johnson Nature Center have helped unite the community throughout a difficult time, and bring more awareness to the benefits of wildlife and agricultural learning.

Jaros reflected on the changes made on the farm as he gave an invitation to students looking to visit.

“If folks haven’t been out here, and high school students haven’t been out here, and they’re interested in getting involved, they

should definitely come check it out [and] see what’s going on,” said Jaros. “It’s not the same farm that they thought of in second grade when they came on their field trip.”

NOVEMBER | B

PAGE 12

MSU Football Coach Mel Tucker wears a mask during practice Photo by Michigan State Univesity Football

The Big Ten Returns What changed that allowed the Big Ten to return to play?

by EVAN KATZ Staff Writer On August 11, Big Ten presidents met and decided to postpone the football season with a vote of 11-3 due to the increased concern of the spread of COVID-19. Even though this resolution was made, information about the Coronavirus changes by the minute, impacting the Big Ten’s decision making. Almost a month after this initial conclusion, their minds have changed.

One major concern that Commissioner Kevin Warren had was not just the players getting COVID-19 but the long-lasting effects on players that did test positive. One long-lasting effect discussed was myocarditis, a heart condition that reduces the ability to pump normal rhythms.

This played a major role in the Big Ten’s original decision because they had found that several inconference athletes had issues with this condition after testing positive for COVID-19.

As time passed after their first decision, the Big Ten conference noticed that other conferences were playing safely. In response to the latest data, the next step by commissioner Warren was to develop a task force to discuss with their

presidents and chancellors how they could return to play safely. One topic discussed was testing.

“Having the availability, the reliability and the opportunity to test daily was a game-changer for this decision,” Iowa athletic director Garry Barta

“Stay Positive, Test Negative”

Jim Harbaugh

Michigan Head Coach told Forbes.

As knowledge about the virus grows, so does the technology within tests. Some tests approved by the FDA can come back with accurate results

within 15 minutes. However, if a player ends up testing positive they are required to quarantine away from the team for three weeks, which is just a week less than half the season. Head football coach of the Michigan Wolverines, Jim Harbaugh, discussed his mentality for his team with ESPN. “Stay positive, test negative,” said Harbaugh.

To cope with the no fan rule, supporters are finding different ways to follow along with their favorite teams.

“I think this season will feel fake because of the late start and because a lot of the action is already happening. Generally, I keep up with college football a lot but right now I couldn’t give you the top 5 in the AP poll,” said senior Liam Anderson. However, he still looks forward to one big game. “My favorite rivalry is Ohio State vs Michigan. Each year the rivalry is a staple of the final week of college football and is oftentimes a large consideration in the college football playoffs.”

Like many other things, The Big Ten has adapt-

Athletes vs. Masks Student-athletes wear masks while playing

by CAROLINE GRIFFIN Staff Writer For the last several months, Covid-19 has changed the lives of billions. In the United States, each state has the ability to make their own decisions regarding the pandemic and Michigan has taken a different route compared to other states.

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer has made it mandatory for all Michigan high school and college athletes to wear masks during most sporting competitions. As of right now, Michigan is the only state mandating that athletes wear masks during competitions and events (Doug Samuels from Football Scoop).

Junior and three year soccer player Joey Pisano explained his take on wearing masks during practices and games.

“I understand why they want us to wear masks but I don’t think it is necessary. Kids are never really close to each other for more than a couple of seconds so it is low risk. I personally haven’t had complications while wearing a mask because I wear a gator since I am a goalie,” said Pisano. “However, a lot of my teammates have complained about the masks, especially the ones who play midfield. It has made running significantly harder and it is very hard to breathe well and keep up with a game for that long of a period of time. If no one is coughing on each other or spitting, I see no problem with not wearing a mask.”

It was also announced by Governor Whitmer that athletes must wear masks in a closed, indoor environment such as a volleyball court.

Freshman and first year volleyball player Tess Wright, gives her take on these new Covid-19 protocols.

“On one hand I do want to be safe but on the other, masks are so hard to breathe in while playing and it sometimes gets in my visual field which makes it hard to see. This is super frustrating when playing volleyball,” said Wright.

“I feel sometimes we are socially distanced enough where we don’t need masks. We are not a contact sport, but sometimes still come in close contact, where I feel we do need a mask,” said Wright.

Sophomore and two year field hockey team member Mimi Wirthlin, gave her opinion on masks and safety issues, recognizing both the benefits and drawbacks.

“This fall season has changed a bunch because of Covid. It is sometimes hard to play while keeping other players’ health and safety in mind. However, our coach makes sure we are distancing and checking our temperatures while also allowing us to have as much fun as we can with such a change.” said Wirthlin. “I feel like wearing a mask during a game is a good idea but should only be required in some sports.

Field hockey is played outside where there is a lower risk of catching something.”

Bloomfield Hills High School is just one of the hundreds of high schools in Michigan working to adapt to this pandemic. The new safety precautions set in place for student athletes has been challenging for many to understand. Many student athletes have trouble breathing and discomfort while wearing a mask and believe there should be certain designated times to take them off. While students may not enjoy wearing the mask, the rules are set in place and students are obliged to obey until told otherwise.

BHHS student-athletes wear facial coverings while exercising Photo by Susan Adams

ed in the time of Coronavirus. With no audience members or tailgating allowed, fans feel they must do their part to keep the excitement and fun alive.

NOVEMBER | B

PAGE 13

Meet us on Mondays!

November 16 - 9:30 am January 11 - 7 pm (Superintendent Dialogue) February 8 - 9:30 am March 8 - 7 pm April 12 - 9:30 am May 17 - 9:30 am

Join Us! Nov. 16th - 9:30am Parent Panel/College Options Teacher/Student Grant Awards

Mark Your Calendar ~ Nov 10th - 7pm CONVERSATIONS WITH CHILDREN ABOUT RACE a caregivers workshop Register: bloomfield.org/workshop BHHS PTO

pto.bhhs@gmail.com

NOVEMBER | B

PAGE 14

Editorial

The ability of flexibility Editor reflects on the importance of flexibility

by MARLEE SACKSNER Editor-in-Chief I wake up, brush my teeth, get dressed (or stay in pajamas), and open my laptop to start my school day. This is my, and many others’ new normal. And you know what, it is not that bad after all.

Being open to change, being flexible, is crucial to life.

2020 has been very unique to say the least. With so many daily changes to scheduling, timing, and events among students’ busy schedules, filled with various differing activities and responsibilities, flexibility has become an essential quality within their lives. Life has thrown us all a huge curveball, never would we have dreamed of going to school fully virtual, yet we make the best of the situation and maintain a positive outlook.

Many things get canceled or delayed and we all need to learn to take a beat and not let these small inconveniences or changes stress us out. Although we all would like to, we cannot control every minute of every day. Changes are inevitable and the sooner we accept that and learn to manage it, the better off we all are.

Although I used to prefer a more organized, routine schedule, this year has taught me that different does not always mean bad, sometimes it could even mean better. Flexibility is pivotal to a successful life because there is no straight path to success, we all face challenges that must be overcome by calmly adjusting to new situations.

Students got hit hard with change this

Editor describes the importance of communication in quarantine

by JILLIAN SACKSNER Editor-in-Chief

Zoom has become as essential as air or water due to the pandemic Photo via Zoom

“Life has thrown us all a huge curveball, never would we have dreamed of going to school fully virtual, yet we make the best of the situation and maintain a positive outlook.”

Marlee Sacksner

Editor-In-Chief year, yet it has only made us stronger as individuals and learners. We have learned skills that we can utilize for the rest of our lives. This ranges from learning better communication skills to developing stronger studying skills and techniques. This school year looks and feels like no other. Some days we go to school, some days we zoom in, some days we work asynchronously, some days school starts at 7:25 a.m, and some days school starts at 8:55 a.m. It is our ability to adapt to new situations that will and has prepared many of us for the future.

High school is meant to be the best four years of our lives. Even though it may look a bit different this year, we truly are learning skills that will help us succeed as we continue to grow.

I never imagined my last days of high school would be spent at my house with nap breaks (definitely not complaining about that). But, you take what is thrown at you and make do. In the end, this is just one tough moment within our lifetime of positive and exciting experiences.

Adviser Rachel Matz Editors-in-Chief Jillian Sacksner Marlee Sacksner Ben Silberman

STAFF

Communication is key

Zooming In

Staff reflects on the effects of virtual learning On March 13, 2020 everything changed. Coronavirus struck hard in the U.S and changes had to be made to protect the lives of everyone, but what were its impacts on students, staff, and administrators? No longer would students learn in the usual face-to-face manner, now they would be transferred to an online format.

Although virtual learning is a decent replication of in-person schooling, it is not identical nor ideal. There are flaws and difficulties that are constantly faced, yet, it proves to be the best alternative option given the current situation.

With the online formatting of this school year, students miss out on the social interactions, faceto-face communication, and the maintained focus that coincides with in-person learning. Students are forced to stare at a rectangular picture of their fellow classmates in awkward silence, hear lectures from their teachers with less opportunity to develop a closer bond, and face countless distractions from at home activity.

However, there are some major benefits that go along with virtual learning. Students can jump out of bed a few minutes later, have time to get their work done at their own pace during school hours, and even “go” to school in their pajamas everyday.

Virtual learning is by no means perfect, but it is

reasonable. Students have some suggestions for improving the virtual learning system and format. This includes adding more recorded lessons to avoid technical difficulties and help kids who are absent and returning to a later start time.

Students have found various ways of organizing themselves while completing at home learning tasks. Planners, folders, and one specific workplace have been found to be very useful to many students as they work from home.

Although we have all loved using various different learning platforms like Google Classroom and Moodle throughout our previous years in high school, Canvas now reigns supreme. With so many easy to use features and helpful reminder notifications, Canvas has proved its worth. Even though students initially found the platform difficult to understand, it has now become a simple and intuitive way to manage the workload. Also, it is very helpful to have all classes use the same platform, thereby reducing confusion.

This school year has and will definitely continue to be anything but average. This year has only just begun and has already faced so many different changes and challenges. In the end, life will go on and in years to come we will all look back on this time and think about how unique our high school years were.

“Although virtual learning is a decent replication of in-person schooling, it is not identical nor ideal.”

The Hawkeye Staff

Managing Editors Seth Kruger Sanju Swamy Lindsey Zousmer Copy Editor Cassie English Lenna Peterson Business Manager Isa Halsband

Photography Manager Sonya Barlow Section Editors Noa Goldstein Ryanne Leonard Noah Roslin Fallan Sherman Eryn Stern Brandon Yaker Senior Columnists Madeline Grace Lainie Rubin

Staff Writers Mariah Al-Atraqchi Byron Brooks Hayden Buckfire Abby Chayet Emma Coden Isabella D’AnnunzioO’Brien Ashley Fogel Isabelle Goldstein Claire Greenspan Caroline Griffin Alexis Guerrieri Noah Kam

Body language, eye contact, diction, and tone. Our formats of communication are simply endless, or, they were.

As our time in quarantine lengthens, and our connection with the outside dwindles, we have begun to lose our in person tactics to a conversation. However, I do not think this is necessarily a negative.

In-person communication thrived from its ability to force people to understand the subtleties of the human interaction. One would have to focus on not only what their partner was saying, but how they said it. These subtleties are lost, however, in our new form of person-to-person online interaction.

Because we can no longer interact in our usual manner, it is now up to us to figure out how to hold a conversation in a fun and meaningful manner without the social cues that in-person conversation brings us.

It is clear from the new format of online zoom call communication that people have learned new ways to communicate. Whether that be in the form of an emoji in response to a teacher or a happy hello wave. But, we do not realize how much we lose when we do not hear each other’s voices.

As a student, I have noticed a severe lack of interaction in the student-teacher relationship. In many of my classes not even a single student feels comfortable or has the confidence to turn on their camera, thus, disabling them from showing any emotion of character. That self-imposed isolation from the teacher stems from a fear of being judged. It is clear that in some cases turning on one’s camera is anxiety inducing. So, this form of face-to-face interaction with teachers has been lost because of zoom.

Although this issue seems insurmountable, I believe that communication can be reached in other manners. Whether that be through the zoom chat, an email, or a one-on-one conversation with the teacher, students can connect. The key is simply how.

It is important for students, and adults alike to realize the importance of the friendly connection - the passing in the hall nods or the hug when you walk in.

Although both of these options are out because of the renewed isolation, we can still fix these small, and seemingly insignificant interactions with a fresh unmuted “Hello Ms. Smith!” at the beginning of class. This seemingly insignificant interaction can have major benefits to the energy that a teacher, or even other students, bring to the classroom.

Communication has been lost in its original fashion, however, we can make simple changes to our daily behavior on calls to at least begin to mitigate the negative effects of the lack of seeing the other person. I believe that we as a society have actually grown as communicators during this pandemic simply because we have had to learn a new way to interact, and connect with new people.

Evan Katz Seamus Keane Grace Kobernik Cal Martinez Alec Mayoras Max Melamed Madeline Moss Isabella Muchnick Kalyn Mullens Michaela Nash Naomi Parr Joshua Rillema Grace Roberts Jane Rosett

Maximilian Schenke Claire Schneider Samantha Sherman Gabe Singer Skylar Stearns Benjamin Stern Mouhamadou Tall Ashton Taylor Jasmine Wade Abbey Weitzman Olivia White Elizabeth Wilburn

NOVEMBER | B

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Movies showing at The Maple Theater in Bloomfield Hills Photo by Claire Schneider

Movie theaters offer a return to normalcy

Too soon to open up

Why we should keep theaters open (with restrictions)

Why we should keep theaters closed for the time being

by CLAIRE SCHNEIDER Staff Writer

by LIZZY WILBURN Staff Writer The last 8 months have been a whirlwind of perpetual gloom. It’s about time we added a bit of fun to our lives, starting with a return to movie theaters. Though it is imperative that we stay safe and cautious during this time, movie theaters reopening is for the best. Movie theaters can help to stimulate the economy, they can help with the anxiety created by the pandemic, and, with the proper precautions, they can be safe.

One driving reason to reopen movie theaters would be in terms of economic and financial output. Since the start of the pandemic, over 14 million people have lost their jobs. As the employment rate continues to grow, even after eight months of lockdown, the reopening of movie theaters could provide some much-needed occupations.

But there is more at play in this equation: because of the movie theater shutdowns, many movies have delayed their release dates by years, with big titles such as Lin Manuel Miranda’s In the Heights pushed to a year after its original release date and Wes Anderson’s The French Dispatch suspended indefinitely after being scheduled for release in July, 2020. This exemplifies the effect on the movie industry as a whole–without open theaters, films will not be released, causing job loss for both those working in theaters as well as those working in the film industry.

There have been discussions about whether or not it is safe to attend a movie during this pandemic. The CDC is recommending masks and social distancing, to prevent in-

fection argues that it could be detrimental to safety, but we still need to consider that proper precautions can be met.

Theaters such as AMC have already publicly stated their dedication to social distancing in their theaters to keep employees and customers alike safe. Health experts have questioned whether or not going to a movie theater is too much of a high-risk activity. As long as movie theaters are taking serious precautionary measures, citizens should feel safe to see a film.

The pandemic has, without a doubt, had serious consequences to the nation’s mental health. It is estimated that one in five adults in the US already struggle with their mental health. The pandemic is worsening already widespread mental illness and anything to get it off our minds could help. Movies provide an emotional release, something people could use during such a stressful time.

The case can be made that one can watch movies via the multiple streaming platforms we have to choose from nowadays.

But film lovers know–it’s just not the same at home. There’s something classic and timeless about going to the theater. The screen is better, the sound is better, the popcorn is better. Many love that they can stream movies to their computer, but nothing beats going to the theater to see new releases.

Movie theaters can provide much needed light in the darkness of this pandemic, and with most other businesses open, I don’t see a logical reason to keep them closed.

PRO

Opening Movie Theaters CON

This is the moment everyone has been waiting for. Well, not exactly everyone, but at least everyone sitting at home alone on a Friday night. For over six months, movie theaters have been shut down due to the spread of COVID-19. That finally changed on October 9, when all movie theaters in the state of Michigan were allowed to re-open, following new safety protocols.

While there are strict precautions being taken, this is not a zero-risk scenario, and a public gathering of people from all over doesn’t seem to help slow the spread.

I too am a huge fan of movies. Don’t get me wrong, they are a great way to relax for a few hours and get out of the house.

But, with the threat of the Coronavirus still present, the reward simply isn’t worth the risk. While it is required to wear a mask in some theaters, in others, it’s not even mandatory – customers are able to remove their mask once they sit down. Joining 20 strangers, eating, laughing, and whispering in an enclosed space without efficient air circulation sounds like a breakout waiting to happen.

Even though other guests might not be wearing a mask, our safety can be ensured by the responsible employees, as they have new rules to follow regarding the guests safety, right? Wrong. Many employees are being trained on new safety protocols and are required to wear masks. However, how can we ensure that they wash their hands regularly and wear their masks in the break room? They are touching everything we use–chairs, concessions, tickets, doorknobs, faucets. I wish I could give everyone

the benefit of the doubt, but when it comes to my health, I don’t want to put it in someone else’s unwashed hands.

Although other movie goers may decide to only take their mask off while eating or drinking, nobody knows how many precautions they take in their daily lives. You can’t trust others to follow the guidelines all the time and it may be safe to assume not everyone going to a movie isn’t super concerned about the virus. Am I saying that they have no concern for the safety of themselves and others? Absolutely not.

However, this shows that they aren’t afraid to go out as more places reopen.

Going to the movies is supposed to be a fun, relaxing activity for a night out. But with all the risks and regulations, it seems more stressful than it’s worth. Each theater has different rules and, for now, all movie buffs might want to opt for the at-home theater a little while longer.

Humans of Bloomfield

by SEAMUS KEANE Staff Writer

What BHHS Students have been up to during the past months

“I built a koi pond in my backyard!”

“I learned to bake banana bread and a little bit of piano!”

“I learned skills for my new job as a waitress!”

Hughie Watters (10)

Cameron Kaufman (11)

Avery Mathes (11)

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Peanut Butter Kiss Bliss A combination of balancing flavors that you just cannot miss

by LAINIE RUBIN Senior Columnist When I reach for a snack in the fridge or pantry, I often find myself contemplating if I should eat something sweet or salty. This may sound absurd, but it is a constant battle in my mind: What if I choose sweet and I end up wanting salty? For me, and others who feel the same, this Peanut Butter Blossom cookie satisfies all sweet and salty needs (or taste buds).

The recipe includes: - ½ cup granulated sugar - ½ cup packed brown sugar - ½ cup creamy peanut butter - ½ cup butter, softened - 1 egg - 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour - ¾ teaspoon baking soda - ½ teaspoon baking powder - Additional granulated sugar - About 36 Hershey Kisses, unwrapped

Poster of Enola Holmes Poster via Netflix

Sherlock Holmes’ sister gets tangled up in mystery Milli Bobby Brown stars in new film

by NOA GOLDSTEIN Section Editor “Stranger Things” star Millie Bobby Brown is back, shining in her new movie Enola Holmes.

Released September 23 on Netflix, the movie also stars Louis Partridge and actor Henry Cavill who played the roles of Viscount Tewkesbury and the famous Sherlock Holmes. Brown did an excellent job throughout the movie, appearing in almost every scene, and narrating a good portion of the film. Additionally, this movie was extremely easy to access, as all you need is a Netflix subscription, something that most teens, like me, already have.

Brown plays the part of the infamous Sherlock Holmes’s witty little sister, a 16-year-old who has been homeschooled her whole life by her mother while living in a huge Victorian mansion. Sud-

denly, on her 16th birthday, her life is turned upside down when her mother (who is also her only guardian) disappears without a trace. Like Enola, her mother is very intelligent and has left clues for her daughter to discover her whereabouts. Enola embarks on a long adventure to find her mother, not worrying about anything or anybody else.

However, she soon runs into people and obstacles that teach her many new lessons of adulthood, as well as the ways of British society during the late 1800s.

This movie is not only a great coming-of-age story and thriller, but it also breaks traditional societal norms by introducing topics such as feminism and political activism, which were unheard of at the time, and are prevalent issues today.

I found the acting, although most of it done by Brown, phe-

nomenal. I also liked the narration in this film as it shifts from a more serious setting to a fun and adventurous tone. For example, Enola is always in danger during the film, but I was always more concerned about the clever thing she would say next rather than the situation that she was in.

However, there were a couple of moments, such as when Brown wasn’t on-screen when the acting wasn’t quite as fantastic. Some of the other characters didn’t seem to have much of a role within the actual plot, and as such, I struggled to connect with their perspective. If Brown wasn’t in every scene, this movie would definitely not have brought me as much joy as it did. Fortunately, that wasn’t the case.

I would recommend this movie to anyone who likes a fun mys-

tery movie with a little bit of a quirky attitude. Not only was the film fun and exciting, but it was also a wonderful story played to top-notch actors’ capabilities. I really enjoyed watching Enola Holmes and the cutting edge performance given

by Brown.

My Rating: 4/5 Stars

The Social Dillema analyzes our use of technology

The Cookie Monster has met his match Photos by Lainie Rubin

Award-winning film provokes thought about our screen time

by GRACE KOBERNIK Staff Writer The Social Dilemma, an eye-opening documentary directed by Jeff Orlowski and produced by Larissa Rhodes, exposes the dangerous consequences of social networking and the unethical intentions of the businesses behind it.

Within this Drama/Documentary hybrid, scenes switch between documenting real people to acted portrayals of social media’s effects. Skyler Gisondo and Kara Hayward play teenagers affected by the overconsumption of social media. Interviews with past employees of social networking companies are also included to add dimension and credibility to the doc.Tristan Harris, a former Google employee, reveals the ways in which various social networking apps lack ethical design and utilize manipulation to grow their companies.

The Social Dilemma also presents theories on how large scale corporations monitor our every digital move, and use this data to produce ads that we will see and interact with.

This documentary also heavily discusses the addiction, especially in children, that these social networking sites are designed to form. The concept that social media can be addictive is not new, but The Social Dilemma emphasizes that none of the harmful effects of these sites are accidental, but rather the goal. The drive of these companies is to produce a shift in the way that consumers think and act, no matter if it is a positive or negative change, in order to gain a profit.

Throughout watching, I noticed the intense language and tone this film used kept my attention and was engaging. For example, the

quote “Be afraid, be very afraid,” was one that I found to be particularly compelling and alarming. The visuals were intriguing as well, and the variation between interactions with real people and using actors to present the reality of technology was something that I enjoyed.

Although I thought the acted out portrayal in the film was a good idea in theory, it was over-dramatized and did little to add to the overarching message. However, Orlowski and Rhodes undoubtedly succeeded in producing a shock value. While watching, I was surprised to hear the immoral actions that these powerful companies take, and it left me feeling angered.

Thus, this film was effective in persuading me to reflect on my own screen time and re-evalu-

The Social Dillema poster Photo via Sundance Film Festival

First, heat the oven to 375 degrees fahrenheit.

Then, in a large bowl, beat ½ cup granulated sugar, brown sugar, peanut butter, butter, and egg (a tip here would be to use an electric mixer on medium speed).

Once the mixture is homogeneous, stir in the flour, baking soda, and baking powder.

When you see that the dough has formed, roll it into about 1-inch balls,then roll the balls in the additional sugar. The dough ball should be COVERED in the sugar for the best possible outcome.

Next, bake the cookies for about 8 to 10 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown (tip: place the cookies about 2-inches apart from each other on the baking sheet).

Finally, as soon as the cookies come out of the oven, place an unwrapped Hershey Kiss right in the center of the cookie.

In my opinion, the best time to eat these cookies is after they have been refrigerated (for twenty minutes). That way, the Hershey Kiss has enough time to melt its gooey bottom into the dough, but there is still a distinct separation between the dough and the Hershey Kiss. I also love how the cookies are bite size, which allows me to take one bite with both a sweet and salty taste in my mouth.

I am a fan of all types of cookies, but these cookies are thick and smooth at the same time, so the taste of the Peanut Butter lingers in my mouth for minutes after. Also, the additional sugar coating the outer layer of the cookie is so appealing for the extra sweetness in comparison to the saltiness. This recipe is very simple and quick, but the combination of the taste and texture gives off a complex smell that is pleasing for any type of setting.

ate how much I let technology and social networking apps consume my life. Orlowski and Rhodes did a fantastic job executing the intent of the documentary to both alarm viewers and caution them. If you’re looking for a film that is thought provoking and will leave you with a lasting impression, The Social Dilemma is the documentary for you.

My Rating: 4/5 Stars

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There are two imposters Among Us New roleplaying game explodes in popularity

by SETH KRUGER Managing Editor A new wave is upon us. Within the confinements of our homes, we search day and night for entertainment, just for something to do.

That brings us to the depths of the internet, where we discover countless new sources of entertainment, including a slew of quite random online multiplayer games.

One of the newest games to surface atop this search for entertainment is the game called Among Us. The online multiplayer game was originally released in June of 2018 and floated around the endless cycle of “average” and majorly unknown games on the internet.

However, with the addition of social distancing into our daily lives, it has become very difficult to play social games with friends.

That is when a few streamers on the platform called Twitch began to play the game in order to still maintain the social aspect of gaming with their friends while from the safety of their own homes. This was made possible through Twitch as it is an online streaming service where anyone can stream their gaming experience, either alone or with friends.

After these streamers’ massive audiences began to watch the game be played, they themselves looked to get into the fun, and thus began the wave of dominance over the gaming world. Youtubers quickly pounced on the rising game, and the wave took over almost every gaming channel on the platform as well as a massive expansion to many other Twitch streamers.

Then the game began to pop up in group chats, at social gatherings, and on late night FaceTime calls. Among Us quickly became a part of the gaming community.

The game follows the idea of 4-10 players “stuck” on a spacecraft, and to escape they must complete tasks that are scattered throughout the map. But the twist is that each round, there are 1-3 players who are selected as ‘imposters.’ The imposter’s sole job is to eliminate and sabotage the other players while trying to blend in with the innocent players, who are called ‘crewmates.’

After the imposter eliminates a crewmate, the crewmate’s body remains at the location of the death. Once this body is discovered, any player can report it. This is where the fun begins.

After the reporting of a body, all of the remaining players, both crewmates and imposters, come together to discuss who they think committed the murder. Many people utilize the in-game chat provided at each meeting to discuss, while many others use various outside communication sources such as Discord and FaceTime.

Accusations are thrown left and right, and from there come arguments, lies, and betrayals. This is what makes the game so entertaining; the pure mayhem that ensues during each round of the game are both intriguing and hilarious. After a period of discussion, all of the remaining players, including the imposters, get to vote someone out, attempting to guess who the imposter may be.

Throughout the game, the imposters can win by eliminating all of the crewmates through voting or killing, but the crewmates can also win by voting off all of the imposters or by completing all of their tasks.

In the end, false accusations can win or lose the game for the imposters or crewmates, just from simple phrases such as “red is sus”.

Colorful Among Us characters Photo by Sportskeeda

The posters for the live action and original version of Mulan Photo via IGN

Mulan: Live Action version brings dishonor to us all Let’s get down to business, is this reboot really worth the watch?

by IZZY O’BRIEN Staff Writer Mulan, the inspiring story that little girls like me looked up to has made a comeback. A live action version of the film was made available on Disney+ for premium users on September 4, 2020. For those unwilling to pay the hefty sum of 30 dollars,the movie will be available in early December 2020; however, I would not be counting down the days.

This movie had many controversies surrounding it before it even came out, which led many people to boycott the film in its entirety. One issue that consumers were having was that the movie was too expensive. Watching Mulan not only forces a customer to have bought a Disney+ subscription for seven dollars a month, but also asks that you cough up an extra 30 just for the one movie.

A larger issue that resulted in

some boycotting the movie was the fact that Disney filmed in Xinjiang, China. For the past four years, the Chinese government is believed to have over two million imprisoned UyghurMuslims in re-education camps held in Xinjiang. People in the camps have reported abuse coming from within the camps, as well as the government. After filming in China, Disney publicly thanked the Chinese government for allowing them to film in Xinjiang, ignoring the issues concerning the Uyghur-Muslims in the re-education camps.

Disney later apologized, but this still wasn’t enough for some fans. Enraged, many decided to boycott the movie, in hopes that Disney would get the message.

Mulan was always one of my favorite movies as a child because of its empowering message that girls can do anything that boys can. Although that lesson still reigns true in the

live action version, it seems to be the only thing similar to the original.

Within the live action version, two of the most entertaining characters, Mushu (the dragon), and the cricket were erased from the movie. Instead, in their absence, a witch named Gong Li replaced them. For me, this character contributed nothing to the story and there was no point in adding her. The songs were also removed, understandably, as almost all live action Disney movies do, but without music, this movie simply fell flat. The actors conveyed little emotion through just acting alone, and even they seemed as bored as I was watching the film.

I was not expecting much from Mulan, but it disappointed my already low expectations.

After watching the two hour lethargic-packed movie, I am baffled that I paid money to watch

it. I did enjoy how the movie was shot, with elegant costumes that were beautiful to look at, but without these costumes, it simply lacked substance. The special effects were laughable, awkward, and for most scenes, unnecessary.

I would not recommend Mulan to anyone. It was a waste of my time, money, and sitting through the full movie felt more like a chore than a gratification.

Bakehouse 46 is the icing on the cake Modern bakery in Birmingham has more than meets the eye

by ISA HALSBAND Social Media/Business Manager Bakehouse 46 in Downtown Birmingham will both satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting even more. Not only is the pure sight of their cupcakes mouth watering, but the cafe displays countless more delectables that are simply too difficult to ignore.

The bakeshop is a combination of the stores Cupcake Station and Blake’s Farm. They offer an array of items ranging from a soft morning bagel breakfast to deliciously sweet ice cream sandwiches.

If you’re looking to indulge in the crisp fall weather, they even offer donuts, cider, and, better yet, cider slushies. No need to wait in the half hour long line at the cider mill anymore. Bakehouse 46 has every cider mill treat you could ever wish for, minus the lengthy wait time. So, if you’re ever tempted by the thought of a nice, warm donut but don’t have the motivation to navigate the remarkably loud, kidinfested Franklin Cider Mill, Bakehouse 46 is definitely the place to go.

On top of the wide variety of food options, Bakehouse 46 employees are both properly equipped with COVID-19 safety protocols and extremely welcoming. I received nothing but warm smiles and awesome service. I was greeted instantly upon entering the bakeshop and quickly assisted after taking a brief moment to survey the cupcake display, which in and of itself could keep the cafe up and running.

With cupcakes of all colors, flavors, shapes and sizes, you could try a new one every time you visit - you will never get bored! The bumpy cake cupcake, being a longtime per-

sonal favorite of mine, was incredible with its moist, chocolate cake and light, fluffy frosting, and the chocolate ganache sealed the deal.

The peanut butter cupcake was undoubtedly a close second, as I could taste the peanut butter laced all throughout the cake and the rich, creamy frosting. It was marvelous, to say the least.

The creativity of Bakehouse 46 enhances the experience even more. In addition to the classic cupcakes, they also have an assortment of other treats including everything from fresh baked cookies to cute, little dog treats that you can bring home to your hungry pupper. While the dog treats might not be worth a taste, their cupcakes certainly are.

My time there was definitely a delight, and I would highly recommend Bakehouse 46 as a new hotspot for anyone who likes a fun treat.

Cupcake and pastry display at Bakehouse 46 Photo via Bakehouse 46

Bakehouse 46 Apple Cider Photo via Bakehouse 46

My Rating: 0/5 Stars

STAYHOME, 2 t r a P STAYSAFE.

byBENSILBERMAN Editor-In-Chief

We all know what happened last spring; the spread of COVID-19 caused our state and the whole world to grind to a halt, closing businesses, schools, and everywhere else in between. Life remained fully shut down until summer, and slowly but surely life started to become more normal. To some, it seemed as though Michigan specifically had gotten a handle over the disease and our hard work was starting to pay off. This clearly did not last forever, as Michigan now has the highest number of reported cases in our history (11,000 cases and around 50 deaths per day). The Michigan CDC and Governor Gretchen Whitmer have since moved our state backwards into a modified version of our phase 2 plan. Below, I'll break down what that means and what life will be like for us going forwards:

Here'swhatwillbeshuttingdownforthenearfuture: - In-person learning at high schools, colleges, and universities - Large gatherings: Stadium crowds, movie theaters, casinos, etc.

- Restaurants and bars: Closed for indoor dining and service (takeout and delivery still permitted) - Work from home: Every individual who is able to work remotely from home should do so - Organized sports: Organized sports are prohibited from continuing unless they have implemented a highcapacity testing system like that of professional leagues (upper-level collegiate athletics is included in this)

Here'swhatwillbestayingopenforthenearfuture: - In-person learning at pre-schools through 8th grade and childcare facilities - Salons and personal services - Construction and other essential work that cannot be done remotely - Public transportation - Health care and medical facilities - Retail facilities

Detroit Lions Head Coach Matt Patricia wears his mask on the sidelines Photo via The Detroit News Breakdown of case severity by geography Map via ClickOnDetroit

- Small outdoor gatherings (up to 25 people) - Funerals - Parks and other outdoor recreation

University of Michigan Graduate Students Strike Over Concerns About In-Person Learning Photo via Wikimedia

Governor Gretchen Whitmer gives a press conference Photo via ClickOnDetroit