Issue 19

the

TOWER

Wednesday, March 14, 2018 Volume 90 Issue 19 @thetowerpulse thetowerpulse.net

A weekly tradition since 1928

Grosse Pointe South High School 11 Grosse Pointe Blvd. Grosse Pointe Farms, MI 48236

Administration, school board implement safety changes in light of Parkland Shooting JOHN FRANCIS & CAMERON SMOLEN BOTH ’18 Editor in Chief and Staff Writer

LIMITED DOORS Doors have been closed in order to reduce the possible entry points for outsiders.

SECURITY GUARDS Security guards are placed at each door during lunch to keep students safe.

REDUCED ENTRY There are less doors that students can use to access the building due to new security measures.

ALL PHOTOS BY JOHN FRANCIS’18

On Friday, March 2, assistant principal Cindy Parravano came over the PA just before seventh hour was dismissed with an announcement regarding the safety of Grosse Pointe South, and the measures that would be taken in the weeks to come to ensure students can feel safe going to school.

These new precautions were put in place after the whole nation was shocked and saddened by a high school shooting that took place at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Fla. On Feb. 14, 17 perished by the hands of a lone gunman.

Shortly after the shooting, according to principal Moussa Hamka via email, Compliance One, which is a security firm who is currently in the their fourth year serving as a consultant for GPPSS security needs, provided updated recommendations in light of the tragedy in Parkland.

Steve Hinkley, a representative of Compliance One found it best for all exterior doors to be locked during the school day.

Hamka went on to add via email that before the shooting in Parkland, representatives from all GPPSS buildings attended PrePare training this past fall, which had an emphasis on school safety and security measures.

Detective Lt. Richard Rosati of the Grosse Pointe Farms Police Dept. (GPFPD) agreed with the administration’s response and added without taking any precautions, the school and district would be seen as negligent in the event of an active shooter at South.

“We live in some strange times, when I was growing up things like this didn’t happen but they do now,” Rosati said. “There’s been a call to action, which is mostly gun control, except gun control isn’t going to help Grosse Pointe South today or tomorrow or next week or even next month. That’s a fight that’s been there for awhile.”

The idea behind locking the doors is simple and can be seen in a similar capacity at any airport in the country. Rosati added the key to securing any

area is by preventing guns from getting in. And although the GPFPD was not contacted in regards to these new safety changes at South, Rosati agrees locking doors and keeping students off of the breeze ways is essential to student safety.

In analyzing the events that took place in Parkland, Fla., Rosati gave his input on what the GPFPD would’ve done in a similar incident.

“The GPFPD are trained to absolutely enter into that arena and take out the threat, without waiting even for backup or SWAT,” Rosati said. He went on to add that the first officer on site, weather that be from any of the Pointes, is trained to go in and engage the threat.

Ellie Sieber ’21 gave her thoughts on the latest round of safety measures that South has implemented.

“I don’t feel any different, I feel the same honestly. It’s a safe community,” Sieber said. “Nothing’s really that big of a threat in Grosse Pointe, but if something maybe were to happen then, yeah they (locked doors) would make it more safe.”

Sieber went on to say her day to day routine and routes to class aren’t any different than before, with the exception of being let in by a hall monitor when coming back from Farms Market at lunchtime.

The topic of open campus lunch is one that has sparked much debate among students and community members alike, but in Lt. Rosati’s view, getting rid of an open campus lunch is letting the people implementing terror get their way.

“I would have to hear the arguments for closing the lunches, but I’m going to go back to what I said originally and that is you have to go on with your life,” Rosati said. “We take the proper measures to make sure the doors are locked and I realize an open campus is a weakness in that but how much are we going to disrupt our lives until the point where we don’t live them anymore?”

Rosati added students should put a great deal of trust into the school in keeping kids safe.

“Don’t be fearful and trust your administration to take the proper measures to secure you, which they’re doing,” Rosati said.

WORLD LANGUAGE WEEK: Celebrating foreign language classes AVA MITCHELL ’20 Staff Writer French, Spanish, Italian, Latin and German are all a part of the wide variety of languages offered at South; each one possessing their own unique traditions. World Language Week gave each language one day to share their culture with the school.

During the week off March 5, each language was celebrated. German was acknowledged on Monday, Latin Day was Tuesday, Italian was Wednesday, French was Thursday and Spanish was Friday.

“Last year, (the language teachers) started the tradition up again, but it is

my understanding that it was a practice done awhile back as well,” French teacher Amanda Moon said. “We’ve (the foreign language department) been trying to revive it.”

Some common traditions include playing the music of each language before classes, painting the rock outside the school and students wore shirts from the language they take to help get into the spirit of the week.

“We have our shirts and we sold little German flag candies and gummy bears,” German student Victoria Huffman ’20 said.

Although a variety of events took place, Moon and Huffman both enjoyed similar aspects of World Lan-

guage Week.

According to Moon, one of her favorite parts of the week is witnessing the celebration of every language.

Huffman also enjoys seeing so many people from different languages participate.

“Seeing kids that actually take languages and enjoy them is really cool.

Some kids even take two languages, which I didn’t know,” Huffman said.

Arguably, the most noticeable sign of World Language Week is the colorfully painted rock situated outside the building.

“Painting the rock is super fun because that’s a visual reminder all week long, and as people in the community

drive by, they get to see it,” Moon said.

Moon believes that the entire purpose of World Language Week is for language students to celebrate the languages they’re learning, and for non-language takers to hopefully learn a thing or two along the way as well.

“I hope everyone found some way of enjoying and celebrating their language, or any of the languages,” Moon said. “Whether it be stopping by and checking out the rock, or finding a song that you heard during passing time.”

GRAPHIC BY EVA MCCORD ’21

South’s March Madness basketball tournament inspires school spirit and raises money for senior class LAUREN NEMEH ’20 Page Editor

GRAPHIC COURTESY OF SENIOR CLASS’18

The class of 2018 will be hosting a March Madness basketball tournament on March 27 to benefit the senior class. The tournament is open to any students, no basketball experience is required. “(The tournament) is imitating March Madness, where teams compete and keep going further, then teams who win are going to have a chance to play the teachers,” class president Blair Cullen ’18 said.

Students are still encouraged to come support the class of 2018, even if they are not interested in playing.

“We are going to have crowd awards; you can win if you are loud,” Cullen said. “We want people to watch,

IMPORTANT DATES march

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A student-led walkout will be held to honor the lives lost at the Parkland shooting.

march

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play and participate in (the event).”

Madeline Hass ’20 found out about the tournament from posters around the school.

Although Hass does not plan on participating, she will come to the event and watch friends who are playing.

“I don’t plan on participating in the tournament. I might watch depending if any of my friends participate,” Hass said.

Thomas Kloc ’20 found out about the tournament through the daily announcements and plans on playing with friends, Kloc said.

“My friends and myself included, we all play basketball and we thought it would be a good idea to get a team together,” Kloc said.

Student-directed One Acts will take place at 6 p.m. in the South auditorium.

march

This is the first year having a March Madness basketball tournament, Cullen said. According to Kloc, he is really looking forward to the new fundraiser.

“I really like the idea, I was always looking for a school way to have a March Madness basketball tournament,” Kloc said.

According to Cullen, the money raised will go to the class of 2018. “(The tournament) is for the class of 2018, so it is just going to be towards our main goal right now, which is prom,” Cullen said.

Registration begins March 12 and ends March 22 and will be held in the main hallway during both lunches. The cost is $15 per team and the cost of admission is $3.

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St. Patrick’s Day will take place on Saturday.

Make sure to wear green to celebrate!

THETOWERPULSE.NET | 3.14.18

2 | OPINION

The sickest ways to stay healthy during flu season

The effects of giving up Netflix MY VIEW

DOMINIC DULAC ’20 Copy Editor

Usually for Lent, I (as is my tradition) give up something mundane, such as pop or candy. However, this year I decided I would stray from the norm; I wanted to do something that would challenge myself. My parents always tell me I spend too much time on my computer and I should find an activity to do that allows me to “be a part of the real world,” as they like to say. So, for the past month, I have been doing just that, and I have to say I am truly enjoying the benefits.

Although my family’s guidelines say I am only allowed to watch TV on Sundays-- and this supposedly included Netflix-- the rule has rarely been strictly enforced. As long as my homework was completed, I was never punished for watching Netflix on a school night. But the fact remains that I was guilty of breaking family rules, which I did solely because I was bored. Netflix became my go-to form of entertainment.

However, even I knew I was missing out on other opportunities while my eyes were glued to a screen. When Lent came around, I saw my chance to give myself a reason to put an end to my bad habit.

Today, March 14, marks one month since I have last been on Netflix. And I can say with absolute truth I am glad I made this choice.

I’ve found I am getting to sleep earlier because I finish my homework faster. This has a double effect because the sleep gained has made me more alert in class, and my homework has become easier to do because I am free of distractions. Now, I don’t impulsively rush my algebra so I can watch one more episode of “The Office” before dinner.

This rejuvenated concentration allows me to do higher quality work in less time, and it has reflected in my grades.

However, by taking Netflix out of my daily routine, I found myself with large slots of time when I had nothing to do. But instead of wasting this, I have utilized it to go on runs and work out, and now, during a season that usually contains a lull in athletics for me, I have far more fitness than usual. This shows yet another way in which my fast has surprisingly benefited me.

Another hobby I’ve been trying to get back into is reading. In middle school, I was an avid reader who could tear through novels if the book was interesting and my time was free. However, after I finally gained access to my brother’s Netflix account in the summer after eighth grade, the latter occurred much less frequently. Now that my schedule has opened up, I try find time to read at least one chapter of a book per day.

Overall, I am enjoying my hiatus from Netflix. It has proven to have many more benefits than disadvantages in my life. When I first gave it up for Lent, I thought it was going to be more of a burden on me because I would lose my main form of entertainment. However, my decision has had almost an opposite effect. Although I live like it’s the mid-2000s, before Netflix became a streaming service, and sometimes watch cable TV and DVDs instead of HD online streaming, I revel in the ways I’ve been spending my newfound time. Besides being much more interesting, I am learning more and acting healthier, and feel like I’m becoming a better person at a faster rate than I ever did sitting in a chair with a show monotonously playing before me. With the way it’s been going, I don’t even think I’m ever going to watch Netflix at the rate I used to ever again; there’s so much I’ve discovered that I’d rather do instead.

Even though the flu season steadily increases from early November through late February, flu activity can last as late as May, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). It is important for people to practice a mindful and well-rounded lifestyle year round in order to remain in good health.

According to the CDC, the timing of the flu can be unpredictable.

The CDC highly recommends getting the flu shot every year, as well as taking preventative measures against being sick, such as washing hands regularly and avoiding those who are sick.

We at the Tower encourage staff, students and other members of the community to remain mindful of their physical health. While it may be difficult to avoid getting sick from being surrounded by over a thousand other students and adults at South every day, there are several preventative measures that can be taken throughout the school day to avoid coming down with an illness.

One of the first ways to avoid the spread of germs is to not be in close contact to those who are sick as much as possible. Washing hands is another obvious method of protection from germs, as well as keeping hands away from your eyes, nose and mouth.

However, germs can hide in places that aren’t as obvious.

Places such as door handles, keyboard and desk surfaces are areas

Our View Editorial

frequently touched by countless students and adults throughout the day. Disinfecting these areas regularly can make for a healthier environment at South.

We understand that sometimes it is near impossible to avoid catching an illness. If possible, staff and students should stay home from school or work when sick to prevent the illness from being spread.

The spring can be a busy time for students and staff members, especially with the beginning of spring sports seasons and the start of studying for Advanced Placement Tests. With flu activity possibly continuing into late May, it is important for students to remain mindful of their physical health in the midst of stressful periods.

Despite the sometimes overwhelming amount of stress school, sports, clubs and other activities may bring this spring, getting enough sleep is an important aspect of remaining healthy, both mentally and physically.

According to the American Psychological Association, stress levels can affect your immunity. The Tower recommends taking time every day for a few minutes to find an activity to improve your state of mind and lower stress levels, such as a physical activity, reading a book, meditating, increasing sleep time, or any other activities to relieve stress.

Being vigilant of your physical and mental health is controllable and should be a priority year-round.

GRAPHIC BY EVA MCCORD ’21

School walkout raises questions about students’ free speech MY VIEW

NEWSPAPER

the

TOWER

STAFF

Many schools have staged walk-outs, and why not Grosse Pointe South? Certainly “we” don’t want to be behind the times; IAN DEWEY ’18 we should be able to protest too, and “we” should be seen as the Copy Editor “enlightened,” as forward-thinking school we so desire to be.

But in our attempt to be the enlightened school, we have also Mass shootings and now mass hysteria. After the Parkland school decided to take away the power behind protest. By having the shooting, many have finally demanded that something is to be done district sanction this event, we have admitted fealty to the top, that about the issue-- students across the nation have been staging campus we need their permission to do such a thing. We, as a student body, walkouts, and in response, entities both private and public have been have admitted to ourselves and to the school, we are afraid of any (attempting) to answer their call. repercussions which might follow such action.

Walmart and Dick’s have raised their age limits for purchasing Whatever happened to the idea that protests were an act of firearms from 18 to 21, and even Trump, in his well-known resistance to those in power?

A better question to ask; however, is ambivalency on many issues, has demanded this type of policy be why the administration would allow the student body to participate in spread nationwide. an event such as this in the first place.

Simply put, it is a matter of image and control.

A good image is very important to politicians, and the school is no exception.

The fact that Trump of all people has embraced the idea of tighter gun regulations speaks to how popular this type of policy has become. Other schools are sanctioning their own walkouts today. And because this issue has become so popular, it now remains in the district’s best interest to support it.

Another deciding factor in the sanctioning of this walkout is a matter of control. In all likelihood, the walkout would have occurred today, with or without the administration’s approval.

But without approval, the school would have a massive problem on their hands, as students would be holding the demonstration wherever FIGHT FOR FREEDOM Students rally at the Unity March last year to raise they pleased. Sure, students approached the awareness about equality. administration to sanction the walkout, but PHOTO BY RILEY LYNCH ’18 under the condition that it is confined to the football field.

Editor-in-Chief

Liz Bigham* ’18 John Francis* ’18 Online Editor-in-Chief

Henry Aryault* ’19 Associate Editor

Alyssa Czech* ’19 Supervising Editors at Large

Ray Hasanaj* ’18 Liam Walsh* ’18

Supervising Editors

Katherine Bird*, Rachel Harris*, Riley Lynch*, Elena Rauch*, all ’18 Biana Pugliesi* ’19 Page Editors

Chase Clark*, Kaitlin Nemeh*, JD Standish*, all ’18

Adrian Doan* ’19 Anne Muawad*, Lauren Nemeh*, Maura Shine*, Aidan Walsh*, Elizabeth Wolfe*, all ’20 Copy Editors

Ian Dewey*, Piper Eschenburg*, Phoebe Miriani*, all ’18 Sylvia Hodges* ’19, Elizabeth Flower*, Victoria Gardey*, Claire Sheeren*, Imran Siddiqui*, all ’20 Business Managers

Evan Skaff* ’18 Web Editors

Arianna Pagenette* ’18, Kaitlyn Perkins* ’18, Kathleen Carroll*, Katherine Costello*, Claire Koeppen*, Jaqui Mercier*, Audrey Whitaker*, all ’19 Dominic Dulac* ’20 Multimedia/Social Media Editors

Abigail Due* ’18, Erica Fossee* ’19

Tower Radio

Alex Acker* ’18 Zachary Heimbuch* ’19 Staff Writers

Margot Baer, Solana Bryson, Blair Cullen, Griffin Jones, Harper McClellan, Caitlin Miller, John Schulte, Cameron Smolen, Lauren Thom, Brennan Zihlman, all ’18 John Bellamy, Sarah Bellovich, Isabella Craparotta, Oliver MacDonald, Allison MacLeod, Olivia Mlynarek, Sarah Stevenson, Arif Ulku, all ’19 Madeleine Allen, Julia Ambrozy, Daniel Klepp, Evelyn Kuhnlein, Charlie Matthews, Kari Ronning, all ’20 Eva McCord ’21 Adviser

Kaitlin Edgerton

Because of this, the walkout is more easily managed, and no longer threatens the “security” of the school. Any action or behavior that could perhaps be deemed as “radical” can now be easily extinguished by police or security guards (e.g. hall monitors).

No marching through the streets-- that would obstruct traffic (but also prevent the public from becoming aware of the issue). No signs with strong language-- that would offend people and violate the student code of conduct (but also hinder the creative mind of the protester).

The fire of the protest is also lost in our decreased mobility to protest against the administration itself. As we have had this walkout sanctioned by the school, we have admitted that we are afraid: of the administration, and of their ability to expel us from this great school.

One may argue that the nature of this issue requires the cooperation between us and the administration-- after all, it is a protest on the national level, against the federal government’s inability to pass new gun legislation. It requires, so it seems, the mobility of multiple student bodys and districts in order to garner attention; not to mention that the enactment of such policy is in a district’s best interest, for it would protect the student body.

But the actions of the administration aren’t required to attract media attention, nor are they required in order to allow for nonviolent protest. Only the responsible actions of the student body are required for that. The only thing the administration has guaranteed is our inability to be expelled for “walking-out” into a confined space.

If, of course, the district were to allow for a true walk-out, one in which we as a student body were able to march through the neighborhood and display our grievances, then their approval would not be in vain.

It is clear now that the school doesn’t truly care about the freedom and voice of the students. This was made clear by the locking of our school doors and the increased policing of our halls, none of which will actually prevent the possibility of a mass shooting.

All the administration cares about is the illusion of security, and the illusion of freedom of speech.

“The Tower” is the weekly publication of the Advanced Journalism classes at Grosse Pointe South High School. It has always been a designated public form of student expression.

The Tower is located in room 142 in Grosse Pointe South High School. Please contact us at 313-432-3649.

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THETOWERPULSE.NET | 3.14.18

Suicide prevention panel to be held March 26

3 | NEWS

German students receive national recognition for high exam scores

AIDAN WALSH ’19 Page Editor Kevin’s Song, a charitable organization that focuses on suicide education and prevention, will visit the Grosse Pointe communities on March 26 in Pierce Middle School’s Auditorium.

The group will hold a panel of experts on suicide prevention focusing on the signs and symptoms of those contemplating suicide. The panel consists of a multitude of specialists, including Gigi Colombini, a licensed master social worker, and Amelia Lehto, a specialist on suicide prevention and postvention on local, state and national levels. Also on the panel are Elise Boyd, a suicide attempt survivor and suicide prevention advocate college student, and Nancy Buyle, student assistance consultant and Macomb Intermediate School District crisis intervention counselor.

Moderating the event will be South’s own Beth Walsh-Sahutske, the counseling department chair.

“We are so fortuWhen we realize nate that that these they have symptoms impact been genothers, often people erous in we admire, we their offer eradicate shame. to support suicide MARQUITA BEDWAY prevention Psychiatrist and awareness in our community,” Walsh-Sahutske said.

Kevin’s song has had close ties to the are since it’s foundation, according to Walsh-Sahutske “The organization was founded by John and Gail Urso whose son, Kevin Urso, died by suicide,” Walsh-Sahutske said. “While Kevin was an adult at the time of his passing, he is a South alum, and the Ursos still live in our community.”

Marquita Bedway PhD, described how programs like Kevin’s Song help those affected by suicide, whether they themselves are contemplating or know someone contemplating suicide.

“The potential benefits of Kevin’s Song are great as they reduce the stigma of mental health issues. When we realize that these symptoms impact others, often people we admire, we eradicate shame,” Bedway said.

“Shame prevents many people from seeking appropriate care. We need to support our friends and family members to seek effective treatment.”

Kevin’s Song was established during the tragic aftermath of the suicide of the founder’s son, Kevin Urso, according to their website. Since it’s foundation, the organization has held many conferences and workshops to help educate society about suicide and prevent it.

Suicide is the third leading cause of death in young people ages 10-24, although there are reported cases in children as young as five, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Suicide in the teenage demographic is a growing issue, according to Bedway.

“Recent statistics show teen suicide rates are increasing, We need to support that suicide attempts our friends and and comfamily members pleted suito seek effective cides occur treatment. in teens MARQUITA BEDWAY from evPsychiatrist ery background, so cio economic status, and race,” Bedway said.

Parents, teachers, students and staff are welcome to the event at Pierce’s Auditorium from 7:30-9:30 p.m for free admission.

“We need to support our friends and family members to seek effective treatment,” Bedway said.

Atticus Henry, Naomi Ozormoor, Jordan Buisch, Elizabeth High, Devon Krasner, Preston Riegel, and Kristina Rogers.

Four additional German students earned gold medals as well: Alexander Bower, Sophie Leslie, Josh O'Grady, and Charlotte Huettemann.

Eden Frevik, Lucille DeBrunner, Sophia Bachert, Zachary Heimbuch, Chloe Skiles, Olivia Chugh, Adrian Doan, Holly Matthews, Nathaniel Ferry, Lauren Nemeh, Julia Rapai, Patrick McKeever, Zachary Peirce, Natalia Szura

Jadon Hundley, Kenneth Prather, Amiris Kolarik, Graham Romer, Benjamin Hermon, Caroline Moulder-McComb, Abigail Carolan, Luke Adams, Logan Bauer, William Beardslee, Jason Lewis, Anna Gleason, Ben Hanenkamp, Casey Jackowski, Meredith Wenzler, Christine Chen, Kaitlin Nemeh, Susan Moesta

GRAPHIC BY JD STANDISH ’18

CLAIRE SHEEREN ’20 Copy Editor South’s German II, III and IV students received awards from the National German Exam, which the students took in January. Scores were sent out to teachers on Feb. 14.

Forty-three students won medals: 11 gold, 14 silver and 17 bronze. Students had to

score in the 90th percentile in order to receive a gold medal, 80th for a silver medal and in the 70th for a bronze medal, according to German teacher Lisa Richman.

Richman said she was thrilled with her students’ accomplishments.

“I’m incredibly proud and happy for (the students),” Richman said. “It’s really fun

to work with our students here at South. We have a great group of people.”

Gold medal winner Jordan Buisch ’20 said she was surprised by her results.

Buisch felt she did better than she thought she would.

“I was pretty excited,” Buisch said. “I didn’t think I did very well, but I did, so that’s exciting. It was cool to

win and my German teacher was really proud, which was really nice. It was a good feeling.”

According to gold medal winner Lizzie High ’20, the test was difficult. High said she did not expect to do as well as she did.

“I was really happy,” High said. “I thought the test was challenging, so I didn’t really

expect to do this well.”

Seven of the gold medalists have the opportunity to advance in the competition and apply for a four-week trip to Germany, fully funded by the National German Association, which will take place this summer.

According to Richman, only 40 students in the nation are selected and it is difficult to be chosen.

“You have to be very successful to get there,” Richman said.

“In my career, South has won it twice, and I’m really proud of the kids for that.”

Aside from the test, Richman said she looks forward to seeing what her students do with their German in

the future.

“Tests are just one way of measuring, but it’s super cool to see how successful they were,” Richman said.

“It’s even more exciting to see the things they go on and do with German once they are out of high school.”

New staff lounge creates oppurtunities for teachers to have a home away from home BLAIR CULLEN ’18 Staff Writer The new teacher lounge broke ground last Friday, after five months of planning and coordinating by a team of teacher volunteers.

“The lounge was completely done by the staff,” Elizabeth Lulis. “On the committee was myself, Mr. Monaghan, Mrs. Roebuck and Mrs. Moretz.”

The staff lounge was made possible by donations, alumni and the class gift from class of 2017, according to Lulis.

“It was a long process, the staff did everything for the lounge, including the tiles, the cupboards and the counters,” Lulis said.

The process for completing the lounge included meeting with building and maintenance individuals in the district and meeting with Mothers’ Club to meet the historical guidelines of the building.

“We faced a lot of challenges. Even the paint on the wall had to be a certain color for historical

(586) 463-8144 31988 N River Rd Harrison Charter Township MI, 48045

(purposes), and when we replaced the carpet, we had to be careful because it’s such a old building that we didn’t know what could come up with the carpet,” John Monaghan said.

Before Friday, there wasn’t a place for all of the staff to gather and spend time with other teachers outside of their own departments. The new lounge is there to serve as a gathering place, according to Monaghan.

“I am excited to be able to see people I don’t always get to see, not departmentalized, and we can come here during our planning periods. It is another place to get work done,” David Martin said.

After Smith changed rooms, there was a smaller room open, and the size didn’t make it ideal for any classroom, so a transition to a lounge was made.

“We had two options,” Monaghan said. “We could just clean it up or completely re-do it, but we wanted to it make it a place where we could take pride in.”

HOMEY The cabinets and sink resemble a homestyle kitchen. The lounge is dedicated to Jeffrey Halso ‘96, Andy and Christy Bedsworth ‘86, and the Lulis Family ‘92, ‘97.

SCHOOL IMPROVEMENT Elizabeth Lulis, English teacher, spear heads project for new teacher lounge. The lounge was made possible by donations from the class of 2017.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF ELIZABETH LULIS

4 | FEATURE

Boy band trilogy album comes to an end MY VIEW DANIEL KLEPP ’20 Staff Writer

“Saturation 3” is the final installment of the Saturation Trilogy by hiphop collective and boyband, BROCKHAMPTON. The collective is lead by vocalist Kevin Abstract and has six other main vocalists: rappers Ameer Vann, Merlyn Wood, Dom McLennon, Matt Champion and singers JOBA and Bear//Face.

“Saturation 3” is the boyband’s third studio album, following their 2016 mixtape, “All-American Trash,” which was frankly a disappointment, lacking cohesive themes. However, Saturation 1 and 2 were much better projects, really establishing the chemistry between the members of the group.

Throughout the album, themes such as homosexuality, depression, race, urban upbringings, self-worth and failed relationships are explored; this gives the album an emotional depth that is often lacking in modern hip-hop albums.

This installment is quite easily the most refined out of the trilogy, with a less grimy and raw sound than Saturation 1 and 2. It is tangible proof of the boyband’s growth, despite the three albums being released within a year.

The album kicks off with the lead single of the album, “BOOGIE,” which is quite self-explanatory. It is an electrifying track, with a mesmerizing saxophone in the background and passionate verses from Abstract, Vann, Wood, McLennon and JOBA. It is seemingly the only appropriate way to kick off an album that has to top its predecessors. However, as exciting the track is, it lacks real lyrical content, but that isn’t what it was shooting for; it is a song to dance to.

“BOOGIE” is then followed by “ZIPPER” and “JOHNNY.” These tracks are both reflections of the group’s recent successes, but from two sides of the coin. In “ZIPPER,” which has verses from Wood and Champion that come off as arrogant, as they are reveling in their newfound success, and with a hook from Abstract that ties the track together, comparing their success to floating on a magic car-

pet.

Another noteworthy song is “JOHNNY which” juxtaposes this, by pointing out the emptiness that can come with fame, summed up with an outstanding verse from JOBA, in which he states, “I have a couple vices, we had that show on Viceland, I was hardly in it, most the time I’m hidden. Anxious, impatient and always wanting something different, I hate the way I’m feeling, I’m sick of chasing feelings.”

After this, “BLEACH” transitions into a song about relationships and self-worth.

Champion, Wood and Vann reflect on their previous failured love, but they all deal with it different ways. Champion describes building up walls around himself, as to not repeat what has happened in previous relationships. Wood admits his faults to a potential lover, and Vann describes trying to fill his void with false hope, and of course, it never works. The song is closed with beautiful vocals from Bear//Face, pleading for his partner to stay as she is leaving.

Two tracks later, follow “SISTER/ NATION” and “RENTAL,” arguably the best two songs of the album. SISTER/ NATION opens with an insanely energetic first half, starting with a borderline psychotic verse from JOBA about his

own mental illness, then followed by an electric verse by Champion. The second half, however, is much more mellow and melodic. Abstract, McLennon and Vann think about how their race has affected their careers, and how differently they would be viewed if they were seen only for the art they put out, not the color of their skin.

“RENTAL” is easily the best, and most fun track on the album. It is an ode to the lovers of the respective members of the group. A solid verse from McLennon, explaining he wants a love that is mutually beneficial to him and his lover, but Champion is easily the star of the track, with heavenly vocals, and a braggadocious yet loving line that sums up the song, “Throw me in the fire baby I’ll survive.”

This album is incredible. It is a breath of fresh air in a musical climate that is becoming somewhat stale.

The only faults the album has is it is slightly repetitive, with some members using the same flows in different songs, and it bears some similarities to Saturation 2. However, this is not necessarily a bad thing, as 2 is also a very good album.

I would give this album a 9/10. I recommend it to anyone who listens to music in general, as the group has a very wide appeal, which is evident in their music.

THETOWERPULSE.NET | 3.14.18

Vance Joy releases new, upbeat and moving album MY VIEW

JULIA AMBROZY ’18 Staff Writer

With upbeat music, heartfelt lyrics and songs about love, the new Vance Joy album, “Nation of Two,” has it all.

After listening to the first few songs on the album, I knew I was going to enjoy the rest of it. Most of the songs consist of a spontaneous rhythm; there were happy songs with a story behind each one.

Joy gives off imagery of beauty, love and support in a lot of his songs with the things and the people around him. Specifically in “Take Your Time,” he talks about how he wants his significant other to support him and to take time on him. With that message of supporting one another and the feeling of love he was portraying, I think it makes the song very moving to listeners who can empathize with this feeling.

According to Joy, the album focuses in on “a perfectly self-contained couple, their

world, beginning and ending at the bed they share, the car they ride in… the idea that their love for each other gives them their bearings; a point of reference that makes sense of life.”

I think the story of the relationship brought a nice storyline and brought the songs together on the album, making it a calming, but still fun album to listen to.

The importance of understanding one another, and also cherishing the presences of people who you care about, is a strong theme throughout “Nation of Two.” This message is very commonly known between people in today’s generation about making sure to cherish moments with special people in your life.

Joy makes that very present in his songs with a mellow but still happy and enjoyable sound to his music.

This album was something I personally enjoyed spending my time listening to, and it gave an overall good vibe. If you’re out looking for a new, trendy and overall solid album, the new Vance Joy album “Nation of Two,” is worth listening to.

Summer concerts coming to Detroit APRIL 2- JUSTIN TIMBERLAKE- THE MAN OF THE WOODS TOUR LITTLE CAESARS ARENA

JUNE 1- KHALIDMEADOW BROOK

MAY 29- POST MALONE WITH 21 SAVAGE- MICHIGAN LOTTERY AMPHITHEATRE AT FREEDOM HILL

JUNE 22- SAM SMITH- LITTLE CAESARS ARENA

JUNE 13- THE CHAMPIONSHIP TOUR WITH KENDRICK LAMAR, SZA, SCHOOLBOY Q, JAY ROCK AND MORE- DTE ENERGY MUSIC THEATRE

INFORMATION COMPILED BY KATHERINE BIRD ’18 ALBUM COVERS COURTESY OF APPLE MUSIC

CAN I SEE YOUR ID PLEASE?

THETOWERPULSE.NET | 3.14.18

5 | FEATURE

Students come clean about having fake ID’s knowing about the repercussions that come with it

CLAIRE KOEPPEN ’19 Section Editor ohn Hills ’18* got his fake ID over a year ago in order to get alcohol for less money. Before he got his fake ID, he would ask others to buy for him. “(Having a fake ID is) easier than asking other people and it’s cheaper than asking people,” Hills said.

“Usually (without a fake) you ask older cousins or upperclassmen.”

Michael Smith ’18*, another student with a fake ID, said the dependability of asking others for alcohol without a fake can be difficult. “(Before I had the ID) I’d just get alcohol from an older person, like my sister,” Smith said. “But I couldn’t rely on other people to get me beverages.”

Grosse Pointe Farms Sergeant Vincent Finn said having a fake ID can have long lasting consequences, including a misdemeanor charge.

“It’s a bad decision,” Finn said. “It would appear on your criminal record, so if you ever wanted to have a job that would require any sort of background check, which is most jobs, (the misdeYou just find a trashy meanor would appear). So if you liquor store where you ever wanted to be an attorney, a broker, anything medical, you’re know you can trust going to have a misdemeanor them and they will sell on your record just because you wanted to possess a fake ID.” you alcohol.

Hills said he purchased two JOHN HILLS* fake IDs online relatively easily and he said the two IDs cost him around 50 dollars.

“You pretty much just Google ‘fake IDs’ and then a bunch of sites pop up,” Hills said. “You type in all your information, like what state you want to be from, your address and your name and then you just transfer the money.”

Smith, however, decided to purchase his fake ID from an underground source. Smith bought one ID for around 120 dollars two years ago.

“I got my ID on the Black Market,” Smith said. “So, I had to purchase Bitcoin and I had to send it to the person and he made it for me.”

In order to get alcohol, Hills has to go to a party store out of Grosse Pointe. Reliability, he said, is key to not getting caught with the ID. “I haven’t had any issues (getting alcohol with my fake ID),” Hills said. “You just find a trashy liquor store where you know you can trust them and they will sell you alcohol.”

According to Smith, buying alcohol depends on what kind he’s buying and if the cashier asks for his ID or not.

Smith said the cashier will either ask him for his ID or they won’t, and then, finally, he pays.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), a 2015 report showed in the past 30 days, 33 percent of high school students drank some type of alcohol. On average, teens who drink consume more alcohol than an adult will at a social function with drinking.

In a Twitter poll with 45 votes, 89 percent of students at South said they either had a fake ID or knew somebody who owned one.

Both Hills and Smith said most of their friends have fake IDs. Hills said last year he didn’t know as many stu-

J

PHOTOS GATHERED BY ELENA RAUCH ’18

dents that had fakes, but this year he knows more students have them.

According to Finn, the number of parties with underage drinking he’s seen have gone down over the past decade or so. The number of parties he gets calls about depends on the time of year, and he said parties usually happen in groups.

“It’s sort of a seasonal thing,” Finn said. “We’ll have several (parties) in a short timespan because school’s letting out in the summer. It seems like it clusters around when school’s letting out or when the college kids come back for spring break. (Parties) seem to all happen in clusters.”

However, Hills said he and Smith buy alcohol for both themselves and for others up to three times a week. Usually, they’ll have people text them for alcohol. Hills used to buy others alcohol more often, but more recently he said he buys alcohol just for himself.

According to Finn, owning a fake ID isn’t the m o s t dangerous part of the issue, it’s more about all the purchases students will make with the ID. “Just the fake ID in itself (is dangerous),” Finn said. “But really what’s dangerous about the fake ID is the stuff they’re going to go on and do with it, like buy alcohol, or buy tobacco. But just the idea itself isn’t the problem. It’s all the stuff they’re going to do using that.”

Finn said he has caught students buying alcohol with a fake ID, detained them and charged them with a misdemeanor in the past.

Yet, even with the threat of a misdemeanor, Hills doesn’t see much danger in possessing a fake ID. Smith doesn’t see much danger in owning a fake ID either, unless you look too young to be buying alcohol.

“I think my parents know and I don’t think they care that much,” Hills said. “I know people who have gotten their IDs taken, but not in trouble or anything. (I don’t think) you can really get into that much trouble for it.”

Hills thinks while not everybody needs a fake ID, it’s an easy option to have if you want to buy cheap and reliable alcohol.

“If you want to drink and then not spend so much money, I think it’s nice,” Hills said. “At least one person in your friend group should have one.”

Smith doesn’t think it’s a necessity to have a fake ID, but if you look old enough to be buying, he sees the point in getting one.

“You don’t really need it,” Smith said. “If you look old enough and you can pull it off, then why not?”

6 | FEATURE

SAFETY AT SOUTH

THETOWERPULSE.NET | 3.14.18

AT A GLANCE

Administration makes major changes to safety policy after recent national events

lunch. feel South’s culture is changing because of the new safety measures, “No one wants to make this school feel like a prison, and we are but he says he disagrees. very fortunate that we have shops right across the street that our stu“The culture of our building isn’t defined by the number of open dents can patronize,” Hamka said. “Our open campus is truly unique. doors, but rather the number of open hearts,” Hamka said.

We don’t have many students that are driving down to Mack or sevHamka said his challenge to the students is to come together as a eral miles away.” school and build quality relationships and interactions.

Hamka said he has mixed feelings on ending open campus lunch.

“We could lock every door and love one another and create an “On one hand, I want to maintain the environment that we have, environment that’s inclusive and where every student feels like they

In 2015, The Grosse Pointe our ability to enjoy our campus and the front lawn, but in the back connect with someone in the building,” Hamka said. “Conversely, we Public School System hired the of my head, I know that that’s a vulnerability,” Hamka said. can have every door in this building open, and open campus, but if The closing of open campus lunch also depends on the thoughts we don’t have open hearts and connect with each other, do we have a security firm Compliance One, and feelings of parents. positive culture?” who initially advised the dis“I think this is a community decision, if this is something that History teacher Michael Rennell said he would tell concerned stutrict to implement locked doors the parents want to continue, this is their students coming here. dents that school shootings are far and few between considering the during the entire school day.

I’m a steward of this community,” Hamka said. “I have my per- number of schools in the country and the number of school shootings sonal thoughts and feelings, like I said, I’m torn, but I think the that take place. community made it clear a few years ago that they have no in“We’re in a safe community and I think that the security measures terest in closing campus.” that we keep putting in and continue and do all the drills and all those Niehaus said it would be difficult to close things, that we’re prepared for situations,” Rennell campus due to the logistics of fitting everysaid. “You know what else they say, I mean you body inside the building during lunch. could walk out of the school tomorrow and get hit We’re in a safe “I think one thing that keeps us from by a car. There’s always dangers in society, but you community, and I doing it, or keeps us from pushing hardcan’t live in fear.” think that the security er on it, is that we can’t serve everybody As school safety measures change around the measures that we keep country, one debated topic, which has been tweeted lunch in the building right now,” Niehaus said. “So I putting in and continue about by President Trump who supports it, is the think our South cafeteria idea to have teachers with military or special trainand do all the drills

It wasn’t until this year that the district put in place the is going to have to have a ing experience carry concealed guns in school. and all those things, measures Complience One suggested. This was in reaction to major renovation in order “Our school board voted unanimously against that we’re prepared for arming our teachers,” Hamka said. “Our district has for us to be able to have that the horrific shooting in Parkland, Florida.

GRAPHIC BY AIDAN WALSH ’20 situations happen.” spoken loud and clear on the matter.”

Although open campus Roeske reiterated the school board’s sentiment.

MICHAEL RENNELL has been made safer by the “Teachers are what prevent the need for weapSocial Studies Teacher VICTORIA GARDEY ’18 limiting of door access with adults monitoring and ons, teachers are the ones who educate us on how Copy Editor the implementation of the text alert system, Hamto be people, on how to think, on how to care for ka said the safety can still improve. others,” Roeske said. “They don’t need to educate In response to the school shooting in Parkland, Florida on Feb. “I think there’s measures we can do, things we can put in place, us on how to shoot others, how to kill others, that is not their role in 14, the school district and South administration have reevaluated the hopefully, some type of an alert system, a PA system on the front lawn, the school.

Their role may be to protect students, but they’re protectpractices and safety measures currently in place at South. similar to what they have on college campuses, those stantions that ing students by caring about them, they’re not protecting students by According to an announcement by Cindy Parravano and an email have a light saying either come inside and seek shelter or don’t come having a gun strapped to their hip.” sent to parents, the new measures include locking external doors at inside depending on where the threat is, ” Hamka said.

“There’s things Roeske said arming teachers would destroy the school environall times throughout the school day and limiting the access points to that we need to do to make open campus lunch safer. ” ment. return to school during lunches to two doors, both monitored by an Niehaus pointed to the top reasons for not ending open campus “I think when we’re talking about arming teachers, the discussion is adult. lunch as the problem of accommodating everyone not really centered around what that will do to the psychology of our “Leaving exterior doors unlocked leaves us and because of the resistance from students and school.

If just locking a couple doors is making kids think this school vulnerable,” principal Moussa Hamka said. “These -parents. is more controlling or whatever, imagine what it would do to the new measures will help, they won’t eliminate all Leaving exterior “I think there’s some deterrences as to why we school environment if your teacher had a gun,” Roeske said. “I would our threats, but it will help reduce those external don’t do it, and then I also think that day and time not want to raise my hand if I didn’t know the answer to a question doors unlocked leaves threats from entering our building.” will come when everyone will push pretty hard for it anymore, not if they had a gun. I wouldn’t want to speak out against Going forward, adults will be stationed at evus vulnerable, these to happen, ” Niehaus said. them, not if they had a gun. ” ery entrance and exit point to the school Hamka new measures will help, As of right now, the school is reviewing which Roeske said one solution to school violence could be through a added. they won’t eliminate doors will be open in the morning and the use of ID mental health focus.

“In the event of a lockdown, they would be all our threats, but it cards, according to Hamka.

“I think the best thing that South could do for safety is not to lock able to pull the door shut and tell the kids take “If any changes are made, we will make an andoors.

It’s not to install bulletproof windows. It’s not to arm teachwill help reduce those cover inside or outside and help control that flow,” nouncement and we will email it out to communiers.

The best thing that South could do for student safety would be to Hamka said. “The other piece is, I recognize our external threats from cate with students and parents, but right now we’re implement preventative measures and preemptive measures,” Roeske hall monitors don’t know every single one of you, entering our building getting input from some stakeholders, ” Hamka said. said.

“If we could fund a more robust mental health program at this but they look for suspicious items that you’re carMaren Roeske ’18 feels that students view school school that would be incredible. If we provided easily accessible rerying back in. A long arm rifle is hard to disguise safety different than teachers and administrators. sources to students, that’s what really prevents violence.”

MOUSSA HAMKA as you’re walking into a building.”

She said that she, and other people in her generaThere’s a bond on the ballot up for vote in the district that would Principal As school safety measures and procedures tion, have developed a resistance to acts of violence help fund more programs like mental health, according to Roeske. change, the day of ending open campus lunch is in schools.

“Honestly, I don’t know a lot of kids who when they’re going coming closer to reality, according to GPPSS su“As someone who’s grown up and always gone to school in a time through a hard time are talking to the counselors. They’re not telling perintendent Dr. Gary Niehaus. of mass shootings and a time of gun violence in schools, (it’s differcounselors, sometimes they tell friends, sometimes they tell parents, “We get closer and closer to that day for every day we go to school ent), ” Roeske said.

“I was born after Columbine, I was pretty young but they’re not telling trained professionals and there is no process because I see that as another vulnerable area,” Niehaus said. still when Sandy Hook happened.

(People in our school, no system set in place to make them Compliance One, a security firm brought in by the district in 2015 in my generation) aren’t as scared as teachtalk to these professionals who actually can provide under Niehaus’ suggestion, reevaluated the district’s safety plans and ers, we’re just more annoyed that we have to help, ” Roeske said.

“We need to find a way to make processes. According to Hamka, they made the recommendation to walk around to another door. ” it more mainstream and make this something that is close the campus during lunch.

Honestly, I don’t know According to Roeske the new safety acceptable to talk about in our classrooms and someNiehaus said he had discussions with both the Mothers’ Club and a lot of kids who when thing without stigma, so that we aren’t ending up on measures are a form of preformative safety. the Student Associations at North and South following the Complithey’re going through a the news.”

“They’re not actually going to do anyance One findings and met tremendous resistance to closing campus hard time are talking to the thing if a school shooter wanted to come Hamka said if students are upset about the new at lunch from both students and parents. into the school.

They’ll come into the safety measures they should know the administracounselors “I think that is probably a little less resistance today than it was school, they’ll come in through a window tion does everything because they are committed to then,” Niehaus said.

MAREN ROESKE ’18 or they’ll walk right through doors with a keeping students safe.

Niehaus said he sees great positives in open campus lunch. crowd of students, ” Roeske said.

“I have three daughters.

I remember when Sandy “Another great thing that we have in our community, that’s differHowever, Roeske understands why the Hook took place, I was at work.

I started balling, beent than most communities, is the fact that a lot of kids actually go new measures were implemented. cause as a father I think, ‘Man, what if this were my kids?’ I don’t take home for lunch and take friends over to their house for lunch. So in “I think they’re doing it because parents are worried.

I think they’re that responsibility lightly to keep you guys safe and I hope every adthat situation that’s probably the best for everybody,” Niehaus said. doing it because they are worried.

I think they’re doing it because ministrator and every teacher takes that responsibility very seriously, “They’re going home, they’re getting a chance to destress, they’re getteachers are worried about the safety of their students because they’ve not just in Grosse Pointe, but across our state and our nation, ” Hamka ting a chance to eat lunch with their friends.” been reading these headlines for years and years now, and it just seems said.

“You may not agree with what I do, but I have to be able to put my According to Hamka, South’s open campus is different from other like the problems are getting worse, ” Roeske said. head on my pillow at night with a clear conscience and knowing that schools in that students aren’t typically traversing far distances during Hamka said many students have come to him and told him they I’m doing everything that I can.”

SPRING MARCHES

March 14th - “Enough” National School Walkout

March 24th - March For Our Lives

April 20th - National High School Walkout

-Organized by the Women’s March leadership.

-Students across the country are planning many sister walkouts for Wednesday, March 14, one month after the Parkland tragedy.

-According to the event’s Facebook page, the walkout will begin at 10 a.m. and last for 17 minutes, one minute honoring each victim who died in the Parkland shooting.

-“We want Congress to pay attention and take note: many of us will vote this November and many others will join in 2020”, the organizers wrote on the march’s homepage.

-Some schools are choosing not to host a vigil to focus on honoring the lives lost and showing solidarity.

-The organizing for this rally began with survivors of the Parkland shooting but now involves students nationwide.

-A metro Detroit march is planned to meet on Atwater street at 11 a.m.

-“The Detroit March for Our Lives is an inclusive student-led march being organized by a coalition of very dedicated metro-Detroit high school students, with support from a large group of university students and adult allies,” from the Detroit event’s Facebook page.

-On the 19th anniversary of the Columbine shooting, another national walkout will take place.

-This was organized by Lane Murdock, a 15 year-old high school student from Connecticut in order to protest gun violence in schools and inaction by lawmakers.

-Around 200 thousand people have signed her petition online, committing to walk out of their schools on April 20.

-Students will also stand in silence for 17 minutes for each victim of the tragedy.

INFORMATION COURTESY OF EVELYN KUHNLEIN ’20

THETOWERPULSE.NET | 3.14.18

7 | FEATURE

Sickness sweeps the student body in a flu-ridden year PIPER ESCHENBURG ’18 Copy Editor This year, the United States has faced a large scale flu epidemic, the likes of which have not been seen since 2009. And in that year, the swine flu sickened 60.8 million Americans, director of the U.S. Centers for Disease and Prevention (CDC) Anne Schuchat said in an interview with Fortune.

According to the CDC website, the best way to prevent flu is to get a flu shot before the flu season begins each year.

South’s health teacher Nicole Westfall said there are many ways to prevent getting sick this year.

“Obviously, students should cover their coughs and use hand sanitizer.

People should also wash their hands for 20 seconds,” Westfall said. “Another thing is touching dirty handles. Using a paper towel to open doors is a good way to prevent you from touching dirty handles (and spreading germs).”

Lynn Dugan, a nurse at Beaumont Hospital, agreed.

“I really did see more cases of flu this year,” Dugan said. “It’s one of the worst cases I remember,” Dugan said.

According to Dugan, the flu can complicate other preexisting illnesses or cause people to be more susceptible to other diseases, like pneumonia, that can be fatal. She added Beaumont in Grosse Pointe has seen some fatal cases of flu this year, but were due to complications from contracting

the virus.

“Flu is spread by droplets that can stay in the air for up to 24 hours. Even with a mask on, these droplets can get into your eyes and get you sick that way. Washing your hands and covering your mouth when you sneeze or cough is a good way to prevent getting sick,” Dugan said.

Many students at South fell ill this year, according to Julia Turnbull ’18.

“It was the end of January, beginning of February that I noticed I had a lot of students absent,” Westfall said. “Based on the attendance, I could see they were out because of flu, fever, throwing up, but people have seemed to be very healthy since we got back from midwinter break.”

Students at South have also noticed the uptick in flu cases this year.

“I noticed a lot more people getting sick this year,” Turnbull said.

“Washing your hands is one of the easiest ways to prevent getting sick, but also wiping down your desk each week in class, getting a flu shot and avoiding sharing food or drinks with other students who have been sick (is helpful).”

Westfall agreed, saying she often wipes down frequently used surfaces in her classroom like light switches, keyboards, desks and door handles to prevent the spread of germs.

“Just wash your hands and cover your cough,” Dugan said.

GRAPHIC BY ADRIAN DOAN ’19

REDUCE. REUSE. RECYCLE.

Reusable

vs

Disposable

ANNA CORNELL ’20 Staff Writer

“In 2010, most reusable water bottles cost between 5 dollars and 25 dollars,” via Livestrong Foundation.

“Plastic water bottles can take between 400 and 1,000 years to decompose,” via Ban the Bottle.

“Stainless steel bottles that contain no plastics are 100 percent BPAfree,” Healthy Human.

“Globally humans buy a million plastic bottles per minute,” via Forbes.

“It takes 17 million barrels of oil to produce plastic bottles yearly.

This could fuel 1 million cars for a year,” via Ban the Bottle.

“One water pitcher filter can effectively replace as much as 300 standard 16.9-ounce bottles,” via Ban the Bottle.

“It costs anywhere from 240 to 10,000 times more per gallon to drink the bottled stuff,” via Ban the Bottle

“It is estimated that by 2050 the ocean will contain more plastic by weight than fish,” via Forbes.

“The use of a 20 dollars reusable water bottle can save the average American 6,180 dollars after five years of use, which is the bare minimum life expectancy of a reusable water bottle,” via Penn State.

“In one four-year study done by the NRDC, they found about 22 percent of the brands they were testing had traces of chemicals that reached levels above state health limits in California,” Penn State.

GRAPHIC BY ADRIAN DOAN ’19

Potholes plot to destroy students’ cars SOLANA BRYSON ’18 Staff Writer Students may be facing trouble with potholes emerging as winter is coming to an end. It makes daily commutes to school and other actives an ongoing struggle.

“I think (potholes are) a problem because it’s cold and the road tends to break up, so once you see that you see potholes around, they’re hard to get through,” Armani Williams ’18 said.

It’s causing students to have to learn how to maneuver through the alarmingly large potholes that can potentially put them in dangerous situations, Treasy Dedelli ’18 said.

“You have to be more cautious and you can’t be going as fast as you usually would,” Dedelli said. “You have to be focused, because if you don’t want a flat tire, then I suggest you pay attention to the road.”

According to Kamryn Tucker ’18, some students haven’t been lucky enough to avoid the bad potholes and have had numerous accidents by driving right into them.

“I popped a tire recently going through a pothole,” Tucker said. “I was driving over the speed limit and when I accidently ran over the

pothole. My tire felt really weird so I pulled over and realized that my easier every day, according to Tucker. tire was popped.”

“I probably hit potholes everytime I drive,” Tucker said. “ I wanna Potholes are something that are always going to be here and we see the comunity fill the potholes so I can get everywhere easier.” might as well learn to drive with them, according to Williams.

PHOTO BY ADRIAN DOAN ’19 “It would be really easy if the roads were nice all the time and you see the ones down south and those don’t get broken up,” WIlliams said. “If it was like that up here then I wouldn’t have a problem with it. It would be a smooth cruise down Kercheval.”

Students want to see the community come together so they can repair the roads for the general safety, Dedelli said.

“A lot of people with low profile tires in Michigan end up hitting potholes with there tires and end up getting holes, ” Belle Tire sales associate Zach Walker said.

Potholes are not a rare occurrence but more DAY IN, DAY OUT Construction continues on Jefferson to repair winter road of a daily distress so we should be looking for a damage. There has been continuous construction on the street this past month. solution for potholes so our commutes are a little

8 | FEATURE

THETOWERPULSE.NET | 3.14.18

SKATING THEIR WAY THROUGH STATES Girls hockey team wins first in Divison I State Playoffs

REFUSE TO LOSE In the photo to the left, the girls celebrate their State win. In the photo below, the South girls defend their net against the other team.

PHOTOS BY AVA MITCHELL ’20

ABI WILSON ’20 Staff Writer The varsity girls hockey team won the state finals against Cranbrook on Saturday.

The game ended with the score 2-1, and was the final game in the state playoffs held at the Novi Ice Arena.

“We were all super nervous and struggled a little bit in the first period,” Team member Rose Williamson ’19 said.

A second goal in the third period was all it took to break the 1-1 tie in the first two periods, and to secure their victory, according to team captain Lauren Kramer ’18.

“It was a really intense game, and everyone was playing very hard because we wanted to win,” Kramer said.

Kramer plays center position in addition to captaining the team along with Hannah Miller and Erin Brannagan, both ’18.

“I’ve played on the team all four years,” Kramer said. “We won states my freshman year and now again my senior year.”

According to Kramer, ever since the team won the championship her freshman year, they’ve been vying for it once again.

“We spend three to four days a week practicing,” Kramer said. “It was always everyone’s goal to work towards the state championship.”

Each member of the team spent hours after school skating, as well as attending Sunday practices, according to Kramer. They worked even harder this season to account for having a new coach, John Weidenbach.

“We had about a week before the season

started with this new random coach, but it ended up working out,” Kramer said.

The new change was tough, however the team came together in order to win the championships, according to South athletic trainer Collin Karcher.

“As a team it’s been really tough for them, stepping up and having to take these leadership roles, and I think its showing in their skating,” Karcher said.

The team pulled off a with a second goal in the third period by focusing up and not letting their nerves get to them, according to Williamson.

“We work really well together, which payed off in the end,” Williamson said.

SEALING THE DEAL: Athletes sign with colleges ISABELLA CRAPAROTTA ’19 Staff Writer

1. Maria Di Cresce

“I verbally committed back in December and then I’m not signing until the second national signing day, which is in May 2018,” Dicresce said.

Dicresce started playing hockey at the age of three and now plays for Belle Tire 19U. She said she started getting offers from colleges her junior year.

“I feel stress free because I was worried about college early on, so it’s just nice to know where I’m going next year and that everything’s taken care of, I just have to keep continuing my academic and athletic routines,” Dicresce said.

According to Dicresce, she wanted to play hockey in college since she was little and has known hockey has always been her passion. When looking for colleges, Dicresce said she was very “go with the flow” and open to all of her options. But in the end, the coaching style and study of the school was an important factor for her.

“I knew I wanted to go to Nazareth because the coach and I just really clicked and we had the same values, not only just ethically but also with what we wanted the team to be formed as,” Dicresce said. “For the college, it had what I wanted to study. I want to go into environmental science and they have a strong program there and they just have a lot of tools that I can use not only during college, but after college and it sets me up for success.”

5. Elizabeth Calcaterra

Calcaterra began running in fifth grade and continued running for St. Clare Montefalco Catholic School, prior to joining South’s track and field team from freshman through senior year.

“Colleges started talking to me about running spring of junior year and I signed in December before Christmas break,” Calcaterra said.

According to Calcaterra, she is really excited she gets to continue running in college but appreciates the opportunities that she will receive at Aquinas aside from athletics.

“I chose Aquinas because they also are very volunteer-oriented and I enjoy volunteering,” Calcaterra said.

Calcaterra said Aquinas has a great track and field program, but isn’t as intense as a D1 school, which was a great factor so that she could focus on academics as well as athletics.

“I hope to continue to improve my times and make new friends that are as excited to train as I am,” Calcaterra said.

2. Anthony DerManulian “Being committed means no more stress and senioritis kicks in,” DerManulian said.

DerManulian played football for South freshman through senior year and began receiving offers his senior year.

“My brother plays hockey at Lake Forest and he kind of had me apply there and talk to the coach and the coach was very interested in me, so my brother was a big factor for me going there,” DerManulian said.

According to DerManulian, his brother had encouraged him to check out Lake Forest and he ended up really enjoying it after visiting twice.

“For the future, since the college is right near downtown Chicago, I am hoping for career opportunities. Football-wise, I just hope to have good seasons and maybe winning a title,” DerManulian said.

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3. Madison Griffin Griffin began cheerleading at the age of eight. She cheered for South and committed to Adrian College on Friday March 2, 2018.

“Colleges started talking to me at the end of sophomore year,” Griffin said.

According to Griffin, she was intrigued with the scholarships Adrian College offered her in October 2017 when she verbally committed.

“I visited the college four times for different reasons and the college gave me lots of money, so that was a factor that helped me decide where I wanted to go to college next year,” Griffin said.

Griffin said she began receiving offers her junior year.

“I hope to become a better cheerleader when I go to Adrian College,” Griffin said.

4. Ava Russano Russano said she began playing hockey at an early age and played for South her freshman year, the same year that the girls hockey team won states. She now plays for Little Caesars AAA. “I started receiving offers from colleges my sophomore year and I verbally committed to Trine University this year and signed on Friday March 2, 2018,” Russano said.

According to Russano, she enjoyed the atmosphere of the college and team.

“It was a brand new facility and a brand new team. Last year was their inaugural season, so they don’t really have much of a season or a record to look back on,” Russano said. “I liked the community they had and the coaches and how the coaches held their practices.”

Russano said she was nervous about the team being brand new but she hopes to be part of building their team and wants to continue her love for hockey in college and after.

“I was adopted from Korea and so I am doing special training to possibly tryout for the Korean team in the future,” Russano said.

Signing from March 2

6. Kaitlin Nemeh

Nemeh started rowing for the Detroit Boat Club Crew when she was 11 and has rowed for South and the Detroit Boat Club all year round from seventh grade to senior year.

“As a rower, you can’t officially talk to any college coaches until after July 1 of your junior year, but you can unofficially talk to them before then,” Nemeh said, “I’d say before the winter time of my junior year I started getting emails from coaches and I started getting connections from there.”

Nemeh verbally committed on Nov. 11, 2017 and signed a few days after, she said.

“I went on my official visit there and just being around the girls on the team and the coach, I knew that it was a good fit for me and somewhere I wanted to be,” Nemeh said.

According to Nemeh, she visited the University of Michigan twice before verbally committing and she still attends practices so she can watch and meet the team.

“At Michigan, I’m hoping to get to know all the girls really well and become as good of friends with them as I am with my team right now,” Nemeh said, “With rowing, the women’s team is well known for being highly ranked so I’m hoping that I can contribute to the team and help win more races and regattas.”