Issue 4

the

TOWER

Wednesday, Oct. 4, 2017 Volume 90 Issue 4

A weekly tradition since 1928

@thetowerpulse thetowerpulse.net

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

THE STORY BEHIND SOUTH’S

VAPING Vaping incident in boy’s bathroom causes administration to take action

Page 2: Our view on the vaping incident Page 3: The incident in the bathroom PHOTOS BY JOHN FRANCIS ’18 *

Page 6: Harsher punishment for boys * Photos were taken off of school grounds.

Mass email to students elicits a response from Director of Instructional Technology any of them because he was not sure if they students to be mindful about what they were going to spread a virus. send out through the internet, since anyAccording to Stanley, unfortunately, stu- thing said or written online can’t be deleted.

A recent student email thread promptdents aren’t able to remove themselves from “Email is a form of communication that ed Director of Instructional Technology the email group. However, students are able is used in the business world, schools, and Chris Stanley to address the proper usage to “mute” the emails so they will not have personal use,” Stanley said. “We provide of school emails. to see any email sent within that specific email to students because it’s another way In the email, Stanley stated some stuthread anymore. to prepare them for the world outside of dents recently inappropriately used their Riley Brennan ’19 said she also received school, and responsible use is extremely personal district emails. Administration is the emails from the thread. Brennan is not important. If you wouldn’t say it out loud in the process of investigating these emails. sure of how she was added into the email, in the classroom, it definitely shouldn’t be “An email was mistakenly sent to all and she didn’t recognize many of the names said in an email.” secondary students, which prompted all in the group. students to receive the same email,” Stanley “They (the emails) just started popping said. “Students then started to ‘reply all’ to up on my phone,” Brennan said. that specific email, which then continued to “I think I recognized one name. constantly send emails to all students.”

It was mostly everyone saying According to Stanley, that specific ‘what is this?’ and ‘what’s going email distribution list has been turned off on?’” to ensure students Moving forcan not continward, students ue to send emails They (the emails) just should be aware in it. The district’s that anything sent technology departstarted popping up on through the disment can track any my phone. I think I rec- trict email is viewemails that were ognized one name. It able and searchsent through the was mostly everyone able with their server. saying ‘what is this’ and name attached to “We have made it, Stanley said. the community ‘what’s going on.

According to aware of what hapStanley, the dispened, and have trict will continue RILEY BRENNAN ’19 reached out to stuto provide techdents and adminnology for stuistrators,” Stanley dents to help make said. “This particlearning accessible. ular situation is a good reminder that we “Please remember that prophave an Acceptable Use Policy that all stuer etiquette needs to be observed dents should review.” when sending emails-- especialSam Nehra ’18, one of the students who ly those that are property of the was unknowingly placed into the email, school district,” Stanley said in still is unsure of how he was put into the the email sent out to students. email thread. Nehra said he first noticed it “The rule of thumb should alwhen he looked at his school email and noways be that if you don’t want ticed around 10 to 15 emails from various PHOTO BY ADRIAN DOAN ’19 a grandparent to see it, you students regarding an unclear subject. NehCONFUSING CONVERSATION Students express shouldn’t send it.” ra deleted the emails and did not reply to In the email, Stanley urged bewilderment upon recieving the email chain.

RACHEL HARRIS ’18 Supervising Editor

IMPORTANT DATES oct.

05

St. John Hospital & Medical Center is presenting a night out in the Village.

oct.

07

U of M will face off against MSU at 7:30 p.m. in the Michigan Stadium, Ann Arbor.

Music festival turned deadly in Las Vegas RILEY LYNCH ’18 Supervising Editor The Route 91 Harvest Festival, a three-day country music event near Las Vegas, was interrupted by a downpour of gunshots late Sunday night. Amidst the shooting, 58 people were killed and around 515 were injured, according to Las Vegas Sheriff Joseph Lombardo, making it one of the most deadly mass shootings in United States history.

“My son and I, Brett Bigham, were at Paris casino around 10:30 and all of the sudden alarms went off and someone over the loud speakers was yelling (for us) to go to (our) rooms immediately,” Rob Bigham ’84, said. Rob was in Las Vegas at the time of the shooting for a business meeting. “When we checked the news….(we) couldn’t believe it.”

The shooter, identified as 64-year-old Stephen Paddock, was shot in the hotel he was firing from, the Mandalay Bay Hotel, by SWAT team members shortly before midnight. The SWAT teams were sent in as soon as the first reports of the shooting came in at 10:08 p.m., according to Lombardo.

“Is this terrorism? Is it over? A billion things were going through my mind,” Rob said. “You really don’t know. It was a lone wolf type of thing, and that was almost calming, but it was chaos.”

The motivation for the shooting is still unclear, although Lombardo is attempting to rule out terrorism or terrorist-related factors.

“There’s motivating factors associated with terrorism other than a distraught person just intending to cause mass casualties,” Lombardo told CNN. “Before we label with that, it’ll be a matter of process. We have to establish what his motivation was first.”

According to Rob, the Vegas Strip was shut down for the remainder of the night, causing them to nearly miss their flight due to police presence and blockades.

“They shut down the Strip, nothing was going on,” Rob said. “Taxi cabs couldn’t come to the hotel and we thought we would miss our flight. It took 45 minutes for an Uber. Every intersection had police officers--they were everywhere, asking everyone what they were doing.

Even in the morning, there was still uncertainty.”

According to the Harvest Festival’s website, the three-day concert series was completely sold out. The venue was able to host up to 40,000 people.

Jason Aldean, the performer at the time of the shooting, posted a statement on Instagram saying that no one from his crew or himself was injured.

“My thoughts and prayers go out to everyone involved tonight,” he wrote. “It hurts my heart that this would happen to anyone who was just coming out to enjoy what should have been a fun night.”

oct.

11

PSAT testing will be held for grades 9-11, seniors will have the day off.

2 | OPINION

THETOWERPULSE.NET | 10.4.17

Administration responds harshly to vaping situation The electric cigarette was first invented by Chinese pharmacist Hon Lik in 2003; they were first available for sale in 2004. Originally intended as a device to help people kick the habit of smoking traditional cigarettes, the modern “vape” has now gained notoriety as a recreational activity, and has gained a “vaping” subculture to boot.

Some now fear that vaping will permanently damage the lung health of youth and eventually turn them into avid consumers of traditional tar-laden cigarettes. But no matter how one posits it, vaping is actually a relatively harmless activity, especially when compared to traditional smoking methods.

The lack of research in this field should draw some concerns of course, but to say that the negative ramifications of vape use even come close to those associated with cigarette use is downright foolish.

OUR VIEW || EDITORIAL However, despite this, vaping is still illegal for minors and is not tolerated on school property. If one is eighteen and off of school grounds, vape away. But if one desires to vape on school grounds, one should expect to face the wrath of the administration. This is to be expected-- it is the administration’s job to punish those that violate school rules, and to turn those individuals over to the police who violate common public law.

What isn’t expected, however, is for the administration to strip the rights and privileges of students who follow the rules. Considering the extremely low toxicity of vaping in general, it shouldn’t be expected that the wrath of the administration is overtly harsh in the face of this problem.

So what actions has the administration taken in the face of “problem” students vaping in the bathrooms? They have decided to limit the amount of people allowed in male bathrooms. Rather than merely punishing the perpetrators, the administration has decided to punish an entire student body, many who were not invovled.

We believe limiting the use of restroom facilities isn’t merely a revocation of a student privilege, it is the stripping of a basic human

right. We believe that the ability to relieve oneself whenever they please is a basic human right.

The fact that high school students are already limited in their use of restroom facilities (in that one must ask permission from a teacher to do so) is already abhorrent enough. To further restrict half of the student body is essentially totalitarian in nature.

And what is the point of regulating the students like this? Vaping in the restrooms is more akin to how students used to smoke cigarettes in the restrooms back in the 1950s; it is not analogous to heavy drug use. There is no need for wide-reaching and invasive action on the student’s rights.

However, it is understandable that the administration would want to limit drug use on campus as much as they possibly can.

But is this even the best means to achieve that goal? Sure, the new bathroom policy will certainly stop groups from vaping together in the bathrooms. But what’s to stop individuals from doing so? Unlike cigarettes, vaping is easy, discreet and clean- one could easily hop into the bathroom by themselves to satisfy a quick fix.

The problem here is that there is no easy solution that keeps students from vaping on campus. Any action taken that will truly prevent vaping in the restrooms is going to impose limitations on the student body or possibly even a suspension of privacy. Hypothetical images of teachers raiding the bathrooms or students being employed to rat out other students definitely invoke Orwellian tones.

When one considers these other possibilities, the idea of limited

GRAPHIC BY EVA McCORD ’21

restroom use seems welcoming. But that still doesn’t justify limited restroom use- it is still authoritarian, belittling and does little to solve the issue at hand.

We suggest administration decides whether they would rather uphold the tradition South has as being a fairly free school, or whether it wants to uphold a delusionally optimistic drug policy. Drug use is going to be prevalent at any public high school in America, and South has very little of it in the first place. But it is up to the administration whether or not they want to sacrifice South’s renown for having a free campus in favor of pedestaling a drug-free ideal which will probably never come to pass.

Taking a knee during National Anthem leads to debate MY VIEW

LIAM WALSH’18 Supervising Editor

NEWSPAPER

the

TOWER

STAFF

On Friday, Sept. 22, 2017, President Donald Trump called those NFL players partaking in the protest of the National Anthem a “son of a bitch.” On Tuesday, Aug. 15, 2017, President Donald Trump referenced white nationalists protesting in Charlottesville, Virginia as “very fine people.”

These acts of solidarity during the national anthem are not about the flag, but about the Chief Executive of the flag, a man who is tolerant of the freedom of speech of Nazis and other hate groups but unequivocally condemns respectful, nonviolent protests by Americans exercising their First Amendment right.

Should the United States flag bearer on the international diplomatic stage speak leniently about the Klan but use vitriol against Americans that are fighting for their place in society to be respected? Put yourselves in the shoes of those referenced to as “sons of b*tches,” would you want to show any respect to the man who called you a “son of a b*tch” for respectfully voicing your opinion, or for your co-workers respectfully voicing their opinion? The protest isn’t about lack of respect for the flag, it’s about the utter and blatant lack of respect from the man who has enshrouded himself in the flag.

“Liam, the flag should be a unifying point for all of us to come together and go forward together as Americans, if what they want is progress why aren’t they willing to come together?” Well first of all, appeasement doesn’t usually work well in history. Second of all, why is it the NFL player’s responsibility to unify when Trump is the one doing the dividing?

Would you tell the second grader who got pushed down and had woodchips kicked in his face to take responsibility and try to come together with the kid who pushed him down? And this protest has unified in its own way. Robert Kraft, a notable Trump friend and supporter, and also the Patriots owner, has come out in support of these protests. Martha Ford and many o t h e r owners a c ro s s league have

Editor-in-Chief

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

Henry Ayrault* ’19

Print Associate Editor

Alyssa Czech* ’19

Online Associate Editor

Grace Reyes* ’19

Supervising Editors at Large

Ray Hasanaj* ’18 Liam Walsh* ’18

Supervising Editors

Katherine Bird*, Rachel Harris*, Riley Lynch*, Elena Rauch*, all ’18 Bianca Pugliesi* ’19

locked arms with their players or kneeled with their players. Bill Russell, an NBA legend, posted a picture of himself kneeling while wearing his Presidential Medal of Freedom.

A large opposition to this protest is that many believe this dishonors all the work that those in the armed services have fought and died for. I can see how this can be interpreted and if the protest was about those who have served, I would take issue with the protest. The protest has never been about disrespecting those in the military. This movement was started by Colin Kaepernick, who originally started the protest by sitting on the bench.

Then an interesting thing h a p pened, he and former A r m y Green Beret and NFL l o n g snapper Nate Boyer met and actually listened to each other. They explained their positions and came to an understanding. Kaepernick was never trying to disrespect those in uniform, so instead of sitting on the bench in a manner that could be misinterpreted he began to kneel as “soldiers take a knee in front of a fallen brother’s grave to show respect,” according to cbssports.com.

Another interesting tidbit about this whole situation is that according to the US Flag Code the “flag should never be carried flat or horizontally, but always aloft and free.” So the whole event of unfurling the enormous flag across a football field is technically a violation in and of itself.

MY VIEW JD STANDISH ’18 Page Editor

Martha Ford stood with the kneeling Lions.

The Seahawks and the Titans stayed in their locker rooms. The Raiders all kneeled during the National Anthem, and all but one, Army Ranger Veteran Alejandro Villanueva, stood as his whole team, the Steelers, stayed in the locker room.

This past Sunday, the NFL experienced a widespread protest @thetowerpulse against P re s i d e nt Trump’s tweets that was supp osedly disrespectful to the players.

“The NFL has all sorts of rules and regulations. The only way out for them is to set a rule that you can’t kneel during our National Anthem!”

“Ratings for NFL football are way down except before game starts, when people tune in to see whether or not our country will be disrespected!”

“The issue of kneeling has nothing to do with race. It is about respect for our Country, Flag and National Anthem. NFL must respect this!”

“Great solidarity for our National Anthem and for our Country. Standing with locked arms is good, kneeling is not acceptable. Bad ratings!” “...our Great American Flag (or Country) and should stand for the National Anthem. If not, YOU’RE FIRED. Find something else to do!”

“If a player wants the privilege of making millions of dollars in the NFL, or other leagues, he or she should not be allowed to disrespect,” according to Donald Trump’s Twitter.

While I do agree that the NFL has the right to protest, I do not agree with kneeling for the National Anthem. It’s completely disrespectful

TWITTER POLL:

Do you support the demonstrations during the national anthem by NFL players?

YES

51%

PRO|| Page Editors

Chase Clark*, Kaitlin Nemeh* Cam Smolen*, 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

NO

49%

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, Lauren Thom, Brennan Zihlman, all ’18 John Bellamy, Isabella Craparotta, 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

to not honor our servicemen and women that put their lives on the line for our safety, so we can play this awesome and entertaining game that is football. I also don’t see any rude tweets from President Trump that would make the NFL players and owners angry with him.

All of his tweets were speaking the truth and I “stand” with him that the players should be allowed to protest, but not disrespect our nation’s flag, anthem or military.

I hope to see action by Roger Goodell to stop the kneeling during the National Anthem but continue to not take away the First Amendment rights of the players.

While some believe that kneeling doesn’t disrespect the armed forces, I would have to respectfully disagree. I can’t speak for the men and women in the service but like I said before, the only Pittsburgh Steeler that stood during the Sunday game was an Army veteran.

Where I do agree with some of Liam’s opinions, I can’t say that I think it’s okay for them to sit during the anthem. The protest, according to Liam, is against the president himself, not the flag.

This is where I have to disagree because as we stand for the anthem, you are honoring the flag and nation.

Therefore, by sitting, that is disrespecting the flag and nation. No matter what way you look at it even if they are protesting against the President, which is completely okay, it is the way the are proGRAPHICS BY RILEY LYNCH’18 testing that is not okay.

I would like to see the players continuing their right to protest, but I believe they must stop sitting and start participating in the National Anthem.

CON||

“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.

Errors

Factual errors will be corrected on the opinion page or in news briefs written upon request and verification.

Letters

Letters to the Editor are encouraged and will be screened for libel, irresponsibility and obscenity. The Editorial Board may edit or shorten letters as long as the meaning is Opinion Pieces unchanged. All letters must be signed and Editorials represent the majority opinion of include a telephone number for confirmation. the Editorial Board and are left unsigned.

Request to withhold the writer’s name Columns represent the opinions of individual from publication for good reason will be staff members and outside contributors. considered. Letters can be sent to the above email address, or dropped off in “The Tower” Editorial Board Room.

An asterisk * denotes Editorial Board editors.

Advertising

Display adverising is sold at a rate of $7 per column inch, with discounts for large or frequent advertisers. Advertising may not advocate illegal activities or contain libelous, irresponsible or obscene material.

Professional Associations

Member of the Columbia Scholastic Press Association, National Scholastic Press Association, Quill and Scroll, the Society for Newspaper Design and the Michigan Interscholastic Press Association.

THETOWERPULSE.NET | 10.4.17

3 | NEWS

THE FACTS: Uncovering vape culture

a trend and I guess the nicotine gives you some kind of head buzz and According to a joint email statement by vice principal Cindy Parhe was just a fan of that,” Bingaman said. ravano and Joesph Spryszak, principals were notified last week of the While Bingaman did not get in trouble, Sophomore James Meyer incident. igh school bathrooms are classically ’20 had friends who experienced more severe repercussions. “(The) administration received a video of a large number of male known as a place to hang out, read the “Everybody got in trouble, it was basically just being in the wrong students in the bathroom vaping. We also received emails from connewspaper and write gossip on the walls. place at the wrong time,” Meyer said. cerned stakeholders about vaping in the bathrooms,” administration But, since vapes have become increasingIn the days following the incident, the doors to the boys bathrooms said via email. ly popular, the bathrooms have become a safe haven for have remained opened at all times, as was outlined in the letter sent In order to ensure the incident does not happen again, the admin“vapers” of all grades. home to parents via email. istration took precautions they deemed necessary.

Open door policies and student protests are both reYet hall monitors have been stationed outside of them during pass“One of the steps we agreed upon was to keep all male restroom sults of this new fad that is stirring up the South commuing time, and Meyer thinks this is a violation of privacy. doors open. Prior to making this decision, we checked to make sure nity.

“The hall monitors in the bathrooms, that’s that privacy was not compromised for students According to Nate Bingaman ’20, adEverybody got in kind of disrespectful, because when I’m trying to using the restroom for appropriate use,” Parravaministration received a Snapchat video of use the bathroom and everybody’s watching me, no and Spryszak said.

One of the steps we a large number of male students in the bath- trouble, it was basically that’s kind of outrageous, ” Meyer said.

In addition to considering agreed upon was to just being in the wrong room vaping.

Meyer also believes that there are better meththe guilty students, the adminShortly after, parents received an email from place at the wrong time keep all male restroom ods to respond to this scenario in the future. istrators took other non-vaping the school about vaping in the bathrooms.

“I think they should have just talked to all the doors open student’s liberties into consider“Kids started using that bottom floor main students, maybe had another all-school meeting ation when making the decision. building bathroom just to kind of go vape in James Meyer about that particular incident.

Maybe use exam“There are male students in this Administration because a lot of kids had addictions,” Bingamin Sophomore ples about what vaping can do to your body, and school that want to be able to use the resaid. “It got to the point where a lot of people that might stop people from vaping,” Meyer said. stroom without walking into a group of 15would go in and one kid even brought a speaker and there ended up Because the legal age to buy tobacco products in Michigan is 18, 20 students vaping, grandstanding, using cell phones to video inbeing a group chat.” some students have to think creatively to acquire vapes. appropriate behaviors and posting it on social media outlets,” the vice While Bingaman states he did not participate in the vaping, he said “You just have to know people to get them, some stores will let you principals added. he enjoyed going to the bathroom to be with his friends and enjoy the buy them because you’re cool about everything,” Meyer said. “Other At the end of the day, the administration does not want to punish atmosphere. Because he wasn’t vaping in the video, Bingaman did not places, they have friends who know other people, who know people, their students, just guarantee that South students are making responreceive the same consequences. who can get them from adults.” sible decisions.

“I had a short conversation in the hall with Hamka because I was in Acting on these behaviors, South administration decided to take “Administration is committed to enforcing the Student Codwe of the video, but I was just going to the bathroom,” Bingaman said. action. Hall monitors have been seen guarding the bathrooms, limit- Conduct and ensuring South High School is a safe environment for all Bingaman’s friends were introduced to vaping multiple ways. ing access to three boys at a time, according to the email sent to par- students,” Parravano and Spryszak said via email.

“A friend of mine was a cigarette smoker and he wanted to get off of ents. that (ciggaretts) and he got into vaping, another friend saw that it was JOHN SCHULTE ’18 Staff Writer

H

Say goodbye to wifi in reguards to social media RILEY LYNCH ’18 Supervising Editor

Failed to send.

Cannot connect to internet.

Cannot refresh feed.

These messages are continuing to plague the phones of students after the newly-enforced wifi usage policy. The policy restricts what can be done while using the school’s wifi, cutting off various social media sites such as Snapchat, Pinterest and Reddit.

According to principal Moussa Hamka, this policy was implemented to help students focus more on their education rather than what’s happening online. He said it was installed this summer after a decision by the district to limit all schools’ use of wifi.

“I think in this day and age, many of us are bombarded and distracted, and (being focused is) a good habit to pick up on,” Hamka said. “Be focused, be disciplined and be able to stay on the task on hand without being distracted with a WhatsApp message or a notification that’s coming through from social media.”

However, many students aren’t happy with the changes. Ayman Kaddouh ’18 is one of those students, having admitted to using his phone throughout the day in classes.

“It makes it more frustrating and more distracting,” Kaddouh said. “It might make people use their phone less, but when they need to use their personal device, like if a

teacher says, ‘alright guys, pull out your phone’, it makes it way harder to do anything.”

English teacher and department chair Danielle Peck has aimed to create a learning environment that minimizes technology usage. Peck said her students rarely use phones in her classes to begin with, so she doesn’t see a change in technology use in her classes. However, she thinks it could be an improvement for other teachers. “(The new wifi) could potentially be a good thing for teachers who might have a problem with that, because really, if you think about it, in a classroom setting, students should probably not be on those social media outlets anyway,” Peck said.

This difference in educational and non-educational platforms is the main reason Hamka agreed with the new policy, hoping that it will help people focus in class and be more aware of the world around them.

“So far, I think it’s been a positive impact on the classroom,” Hamka said. “While I recognize that it maybe is a change, it’s also healthy sometimes to cut the cord and disconnect.”

Follow us on Instagram: @chezloulousalon You will be entered in a drawing to win prizes including hair products, haircuts, and blowdries.

Elizabeth Sheeren organizes local blood drive

ABI DUE ’18 Social Media Editor Grace Community Church will host a blood drive from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 7. Elizabeth Sheeren ’18 has six different autoimmune diseases, and she has taken a large part in helping organize the blood drive.

Four years ago, Sheeren started a treatment called IVIG, which is a blood product, and to make one dose of IVIG requires about one thousand blood donations. Blood donations have greatly helped Sheeren, she explained, and given her a lot since the beginning of her diagnosis.

“With blood donations in general you think you’re just donating blood, but there’s so much more with the other parts of your blood, everything has a purpose,” Sheeren said. “So as a blood donor, when you donate blood you can save up to 3 lives.”

Because Sheeren isn’t able to give blood herself, this is a way she can help out and save lives the way others have for her.

“Even if you aren’t donating or able to donate, spreading the word to those that are able to donate, getting them to donate is still making a difference,” Sheeren said. “You’re still doing something, you’re still helping to save lives.”

This isn’t Sheeren’s first blood drive to help out with. A few years ago she organized one and the turnout was overwhelming. Figuring out how much supplies to get and the number of people to bring is an important part of putting together the event, she said, because the last time they had to turn some people away, since there was such a great response.

An easy way to get in and out faster, Sheeren explained, is to make an appointment online. To do so you can go to redcrossblood.org and enter the promo code “gracewired”. They’re providing free child care and hope to overwhelm the Red Cross with blood donation, as they did last time, Sheeren said.

Sheeren’s mom, Julie Sheeren, is completely uninvolved, although happy to help, she explained, “Both blood drives were really student led. Elizabeth is definitely helping in terms of raising awareness and different people at the church are helping out,” Julie said.

Since the beginning of Sheeren’s illness, she has been so “others-centered”, Julie explained. She’s very set on giving back.

“When you are going through something as in-

tense and serious as Elizabeth has, even at 11 or 12when all of this started with her health, from the start she’s been so others-centered,” Julie said.

Even with people they encounter in the hospital, Elizabeth looks for ways to impact others, which is unusual because for some kids who unfortunately have to go through an illness it can become very about them, Julie said.

Mackenzie Ford ’18, will be donating and also helping out with this years blood drive, as she did in the past too.

Julie and Ford agree it’s inspiring for Sheeren to take part in setting up and helping out with the blood drive, as someone receiving IVIG, because bringing awareness to kids in these situations is important too.

“The reality is people don’t just stop needing blood over the summer,” Elizabeth said. “It’s a constant need which causes for constant donation.”

Through everything Elizabeth is involved with she’s always had a positive outlook, Julie said, and has been truly concerned with how she can impact others. She continues to show support and create awareness within teens.

“It’s to help other people and I think that when you think of this community, we are all striving to raise a community with people who have an outward focus,” Julie said. “Not everything is about them, how can we make the world a better place, how can we come alongside of people who are suffering or dealing with challenges.”

People 16 years or older can donate blood, but if you’re 16 you must have a parent’s consent. Depending on your gender and weight, restrictions may apply.

GO BLUE Elizabeth Sheeren ’18 stands with parents after her speech promoting blood donations.

16900 Kercheval Ave. (313) 647-0525

Emily’s Middle Eastern Deli 22205 Greater Mack Ave (586) 777-2256

4 | FEATURE

THETOWERPULSE.NET | 10.4.17

the ones who

MADE IT HAPPEN

PHOTOS BY LIZ BIGHAM ’18, JOHN FRANCIS ‘18, RILEY LYNCH ’18 & AUDREY WHITAKER ’19

the RUNNING BACK

-Jermain Young ’18

“There was a slip and slide at my aunt’s house and it was super fun, so we started thinking how to get it to work. I think people were super confused at first, but then thought it was super fun.”

-Anthony Fraiser ’18

the CHEERLEADER

“We had our ups and downs, had a lot of mistakes, and a lot of things that went against us like penaltys and turnovers. Next week, we’re going to change that.”

“I’m very proud of everyone. We all came together as one big family and just went out there and had fun. We definetly accomplished our goal and did what we needed to do.” -Maya Ciechanowski ’18

the TEAM CAPTAIN

the SENIOR

“I’ve been waiting to be able to wear the white shirts and sit front row at the game. Homecoming this year was my favorite because of all the special senior traditions.” -Caroline Fredrickson ’18

the QUEEN

the KINGS

“I could not believe the results and the memory will live with me for years to come.” -Karl Krieger ’18 “I’m so glad I could share the honor of being South’s homecoming king with Karl.” -Mathieu Fikany ’18 “The kids worked really hard to help make these traditions come together. It was really an honor to be the Grand Marshall.”

-Peter Palen

the DRUM MAJOR

the SA PRESIDENT

“Getting crowned was such a special moment. I felt really lucky and I’m sure I’ll remember it for a long time. I’m really thankful for that moment and all of my classmates.”

-Julia Rapai ’18

the GRAND theMARSHALL ADVISOR

“It was surreal to be surrounded by everyone at South all cheering for either their own grade or all of South.”

-Peter “I was very impressed with the band’s performance this Friday.

Lianos ‘18 I’m so proud of our progress this year and can’t wait to see what we can accomplish next.” -Daniel Garan ’18

“Everyone dedicated so much time and work into this week. Homecoming is my favorite week of the year because I love seeing the entire school come together and show their South spirit.” -Rachel Harris ’18

the PEP ASSEMBLY PARTICIPANT

“I felt great, I was sick during that time so getting hyped up by the crowd was really helping. When I saw all the other particapents still eating that really got me excited too.”-LaShun O’Rear ’18

the the EMCEE FAN

the CLASS PRESIDENT

“I was pretty nervous about hearing the results at halftime, but after I heard them it was a token of all the hard work.” -Blair Cullen ’18

THETOWERPULSE.NET | 10.4.17

“FALL”-ING INTO FASHION

5 | FEATURE

A guide to fashion trends for fall 2017 MY VIEW

F

AUDREY WHITAKER ’19 Section Editor

all is that time of year when new clothes stock the shelves of stores for back to school and the fall season. New styles are constantly developing and taking center stage. At school, what you wear makes an impact on your entire day. After all, you are what you wear.

Fall in Michigan is all about color. As temperatures drop and leaves change, layers increase. We trade cotton t-shirts for sweaters and shorts for jeans. Our colors of choice are those on the trees outside the classroom window; the reds, oranges, yellows and browns we see when we gaze outside.

As Michiganders, we know to be prepared for a range of temperatures throughout the day.

Layers are essential to stay comfortable all day, from cool mornings to hot afternoon classes,

especially in the main building.

Denim is a no-brainer, but going beyond a basic pair of jeans is key. A button-up denim shirt with a chunky sweater is perfect for a cooler day. Denim skirts always look great, as they make a statement without being too dressy.

High-waisted or “mom” jeans are a super trendy, as well as comfy, alternative to leggings or standard skinny jeans that go with anything. Light wash denim is also in style. Light wash denim jeans with rips look good with any top or pair of sneakers without looking messy.

Over the summer, overalls came back in style from the ‘80s and early ‘90s. With their big pockets and clunky straps, they are the height of fashion for teenagers. For a comfy, convenient way to style, look to traditional overalls, shorts or dresses. Overalls are similar to the style of a

romper, but you can add to your outfit by wearing a patterned or colorful shirt underneath.

Overalls are perfect for those early fall days where temperatures are still in the 70s.

Another comeback style is the Adidas Superstar sneaker, and more recently, Adidas Stan Smiths. We love both shoes for their retro style that’s available in many different materials and colors. Stray away from the basic black and white and add a pop of your favorite color to any outfit. Stan Smiths are popular in men’s fashion as well, because of their comfy fit and versatility. Platform sneakers from Steve Madden and Superga have also become popular.

Another shoe that has come back in style are Birkenstocks. With their signature buckles and straps across the front and neutral colors like gray, black and brown, they can easily ac-

company any outfit. From dresses and skirts to leggings and jeans, they can be paired with anything. Birkenstocks are comfy to wear, easy to slip and slide on and off and offer better support for your feet than most flip flops or sandals.

Wooly socks are more common in fall season and can give any outfit a pop of color.

Wooly socks are perfect for chilly and dreary fall afternoons. They can be worn with Birkenstocks or any type of sandal. In class, you can be comfortable while still making a statement with Birkenstocks.

What you wear to school is important because it reflects who you are and what your style is. Clothing is a form of self expression and it affects the little things you do from day to day.

PHOTOS BY AUDREY WHITAKER & OLIVIA MYLNAREK BOTH ’19

Black shoes are extremely versatile, in any style. Black slip on sneakers are popular this fall.

Mix up simple staples you already have, like button downs and jeans, by adding one simple twist.

A denim skirt is easy to style and looks great without being too dressy.

Chunky sweaters are great for layering on cool mornings and an easy transition to warmer afternoons.

Platform sneakers are a comfy, casual and trendy alternative to heels.

Kickoff to Fall: what to do throughout the season MY VIEW JAMES ULKU ’19 Staff Writer

Fall officially started on Sept.

22. It sure doesn’t feel like Fall, but nevertheless it is.

Here are some tips on how to

have great fall weekends.

First, everyone loves crawling up by the fire and watching the Lions lose, get screwed by the referees, or the occasional win. A great snack option for football games on the weekend is buffalo dip and chips. There are plenty of recipes online but all seem to be pretty simple.

Spice level can vary on who you’re with and your prefer-

ences.

Let’s say you’re lucky enough to go to a game. Every game day experience always includes a perfect tailgate.

Bare essentials are chairs, snacks and a cooler, but if you want to really elevate your tailgate bring a fryer. You can throw any frozen good in there and make it amazing.

Also, a solid speaker is vital to a good pregame tailgate.

Let’s say football isn’t your thing, there is no better place to experience the fall nature than a cider mill. Both Yate s and Blake’s Cider Mills are very popular spots. Biting into a cinnamon doughnut in the midst of fall makes you feel like a kid again, and few things in life are just as enjoyable as that. Another great aspect of fall is fishing. The salmon run is in full swing in northern and western Michi-

gan. The king salmon are already starting to enter rivers like the Pere Marquette and the Clinton River. Throw on some eggs and wait for that grab. Get ready because no fish in a river fights like a giant king. A good spot on the Pere Marquette is the Green cottage. Go up to the world famous Baldwin Bait and Tackle (BBT) and they will tell you everything you need to know. A good spot on the Clinton is right across the street from Yates Cider Mill.

Fish under the bridge and if the fishing isn’t good go grab some doughnuts and cider. Fall is the greatest season of the year, so put on your favorite flannel and enjoy all the fall activities.

6 | FEATURE

THETOWERPULSE.NET | 10.4.17

New bathroom policy receives mixed responses following recent “Bathroom Party” busts GRACE REYES ’19 Associate Editor of Pulse new bathroom policy has been set in place because administration received a video of students vaping in the main building boys’ bathroom. According to the letter sent to the South community by Principal Moussa Hamka, the identified students have received the appropriate consequences.

“I walked in there one day during passing time and I saw 30 people vaping in the bathroom,” Collin Monette ’18 said. “I was just minding my own business and then people started recording with their phones, and I was in the video so I put my finger up.

I wasn’t doing anything bad in the video, but I saw a bunch of other kids (vaping).”

According to the letter, to prevent another situation like this from occurring again, the administration has put “I walked in there a new bathroom polione day during cy in place. passing time and I These measaw 30 people vap- sures include bathroom ing in the bathroom. doors staying open, limitCOLLIN MONETTE ‘18 ing the number of students in the bathroom at a time, hall monitors posted outside the bathroom and hourly checks by staff members.

“I don’t feel comfortable going to the bathroom, and I’m a pretty relaxed guy, but once you take away

A

erything that’s going on,” Alex Fahle ’18 said. “It’s violating my privacy in a sense. ” However, Fahle thinks the stricter rules will decrease students vaping in the bathroom.

“I don’t ever remember it being a problem last year at all, so I feel like these stricter rules will keep it the way it was,” Fahle said.

According to the National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse, vapWATCHDOG One of the new privatized hall monitors is posted outside ing is a propylene the bathroom in the first floor in the main building. There is a new limit of glycol or vegetable three people to a bathroom. glycerin-based liqPHOTO BY JOHN FRANCIS ’18 uid with nicotine, a right like that, it sort of becomes a privilege,” Monflavoring and other ette said. chemicals that can be added as well.

While some students are glad people have “I think even the fact that some of these candy or stopped vaping in the bathroom, some are still un- fruit scents and flavors make it seems less harmful comfortable with the hall monitors constantly pa- or innocent but, beyond the nicotine, there are all trolling the restroom. sorts of chemicals that we are really uncertain about “I do like the fact they aren’t going into the bath- this point,” Kevin Cox, English teacher, said. room and (vaping) anymore, but at the same time, it According to Cox, whether or not the bathroom feels weird that there is a hall monitor watching ev- situation goes back to its original policy is up to the

students to set a good example for their peers and not to partake from vaping on campus.

“I encourage students to make informed decisions, and at this age in their life when they are taking some of these drugs that might seem safe, but there might be long term health repercussions,” Cox said.

--Vaping has become a 3 billion dollar global industry --Some e-cigarette flavors contain a chemical associated with “popcorn lung” --Long term health effects are unknown --Nicotine is linked to multiple health problems, including increased heart rate, constricting blood vessels, etc.

INFORMATION FROM www.bu.edu

New “open door” policy: Does it only affect boys?

DOMINIC DULAC ’20 Copy Editor ecently, a new bathroom policy came into effect which, among other things, requires bathroom doors to remain open and requires staff members to guard the restroom entrances during passing time.

In a letter emailed to parents, the administration wrote that they had received a video of more than 15 male students vaping in a restroom. The email then described the new rules, which entail hourly bathroom checks by hall monitors and limits the number of students allowed in a bathroom to three at a time.

“During the class meetings we had a few weeks ago, Mr. Hamka said that ‘with great freedom comes great responsibility,’” Parravano said. “After speaking with all the students and parents, (the administration) met, and we decided to implement several steps to discourage the inappropriate use of restrooms.”

Some male students are against these new rules, like Zachary Pierce ’18, who does not think that the rules are going to have a major effect on the amount of students who vape.

“I think that for such a small offense as vaping, it’s too big of a restriction for everyone else who doesn’t vape,” Pierce said. “It’s kind of unfair for the rest of the school (population) for have to suffer for a couple of kids doing wrong.”

However, the new rules are not for everyone; they are targeted towards the boys. Jacob Bruetsch ’19 believes that this is simply because the administration has not received tangible evidence of girls vaping in bathrooms.

“In the video, it was the boys vaping-- they were the ones that got caught, and they were the ones that got punished,” Bruetsch said. “If it had been girls vaping, they would have had an equal punishment.”

This is in line with what Parravano claims would happen if girls were caught. According to her, the administration would look at applying similar

R

Policy Changes Include: -Having a staff member present outside the entrance to the male restrooms during passing.

-Limiting the number of students allowed into the restroom to three at a time.

-Hourly walk-throughs and checks by hall monitors.

-Leaving entrances to bathrooms open without compromising privacy.

Possible is everything.

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We want the future designers, engineers, scientists, and entrepreneurs who will create the innovations of tomorrow.

What do students think of LTU? Watch our video! ltu.edu/studentstories

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11:1

student/faculty ratio

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INFORMATION FROM ADMINISTRATION EMAIL

restrictions to the girls’ restrooms if they discovered analogous activities occurring there.

“I suppose that if we received evidence that showed them vaping in the bathrooms on a large scale then we would look at doing the same thing,” Parravano said.

According to Parravano, girls are not currently being affected by the rules because their restrooms are being monitored differently than the mens’.

“In terms of staffing, I have more females on staff than I do males,” Parravano explained. “The female hall monitors, which outnumber our male hall monitors, can walk into a (female) bathroom at any point in time.”

One thing that the administration and students like Bruetsch seem to agree on is that by opening the doors and exposing the restrooms, kids will be discouraged to vape in them.

“I definitely think that they’re going to cut down on guys doing it because not as many people can go in,” Bruetsch said. “You’re not just going to have herds of kids swarming in the bathroom vaping-- and if they are, it will be noticeable with the doors open.”

Pierce is not convinced that the rules will have a major effect on student vaping habits.

“I think that it will lessen the people vaping in bathrooms but I think that they probably just find another place to do it,” Pierce said. “Out behind the school somewhere, it would be just as easy. So I think in the long run that it won’t change the number of people vaping.”

THETOWERPULSE.NET | 10.4.17

7 | FEATURE

Detroit Vegan Soul offers healthy options close to home MY VIEW

D

DANIEL KLEPP ’20 Staff Writer

etroit Vegan Soul (DVS), located in West Village, is a trendy 100 percent plantbased vegan soul food restaurant. DVS was originally opened as a catering service, and now has two branches, a west and an east. DVS has won HOUR magazine’s “Best Vegan Restaurant in the City” in 2014, 2015 and 2016, so my expectations were definitely high.

Walking in, I was clearly out of my element. If there was a picture next to the word “millennial” in the dictionary, the people eating at DVS would be in it.

Nonetheless, the staff was very friendly, and it was a cozy environment to eat in, as one would expect from a soul food restaurant.

Coming in, I thought of myself as an impartial judge on the food, because I am a staunch meat-eater, and someone who is used to vegan food may be used to the atrocities that I consider to be vegan food. Initially, I was very surprised.

For my appetizer, I ordered cajun-style

fried tofu, which blew me away. It had a strong savory flavor, contradictory to that of usual tofu. It had a nice crispy fry, and a good flavor to compliment that. I thought I was in for the dinner of a lifetime. I was not.

I ordered their veggie burger, which was a huge disappointment.

The millet patty lacked any sort of strong central flavor, and the entire bite was dominated by the pesto aioli, which was not pleasant either.

I also tried their most popular dish, the soul platter, consisting of black eyed peas over rice, mac and cheese, collard greens, maple glazed yams and a cornbread muffin. The black eyed peas were by far the star of the dish, with a deep smoky flavor, but the rest of it was lackluster, and didn’t add anything special to the dish.

If you are vegan, and looking for some comfortable food, DVS is a great place to satisfy your vegan needs. However if you are not restricted to vegetables, I would not recommend it. Not only were the flavors not even in the same ballpark of any meat or animal product, the prices were not worth going out of your way to not eat animal products.

PHOTOS BY DANIEL KLEPP ’20

SOUL FOOD AND WHOLE FOOD A 100 percent plant-based restaurant is the second of its kind in Michigan.

VEGAN LOVE Detroit Vegan Soul Food offers great vegan options of soup, salad and sandwiches.

More than just a janitor: Lawrence Summey

Is sitting for long periods of time detrimental to your health?

and invested in the South community, Hawkins said.

Summey started off playing baseball in third grade. That was his main sport but he also played football and basketball throughout high school.

“I tried other sports, like soccer, for three days, but that was too much running,” Summey said.

In sixth grade, Summey’s team made it to the championship in his league and won, with his for best friends by his side, Summey said.

Along with the sports background, Summey said his hobbies today consist of intense fantasy football.

“It’s very competitive. We hold no punches, and it can be painful at times,” Summey said.

This is his fourteenth year of being in the same league. Summey loves winning but it is also time he gets to spend with his family.

“Another thing that some people might not know about Summey is that he has a pretty good voice,” Hawkins said.

Attending his first Patti Labelle concert at 15, Summey has been to 11 of her concerts in total.

“I have an infatuation with Patti, I have sung and danced with her on stage before,” Summey said.

Summey has been asked 10 times to dance as well as sing with her on stage, only going up nine times, though, due to jitters, Summey said.

“Summey can do a lot of things. Singing, put things up when needed and help break them down,” Hawkins said.

Summey is a great person to have at South, although people probably don’t even see him, South is blessed with him.

“I like to laugh and make people laugh,” Summey said. “I enjoy life and being a father, and I am always willing to help when needed.”

E

CLAIRE SHEEREN ’20 Copy Editor very day, students spend many hours sitting in desks, attempting to successfully complete their homework. However, sitting for extended periods of time can lead to various physical and mental effects, according to neuropsychologist Dr. Kara Brooklier.

Brooklier explains sitting puts a lot of strain on the back and also can lead to a loss of focus. She suggests taking breaks in order to study in an efficient and effective manner.

“I think it’s important for students to remember that when they’re studying, doing blocked periods of time, ideally 30-45 minute spans are really about what the human brain can tolerate for sustained attention without shifting focus or having an opportunity to get up and move,” Brooklier said.

For Enya Nguyen ’20, sitting for a long period of time makes her feel lazy and inspired to exercise.

“After sitting for a long period of time, once I get up, I feel very sluggish and I’m motivated to move,” Nguyen said.

Social Studies teacher Kendra Caralis expressed her struggle with sitting for a long time as well.

“I know that as an adult, I get tired

PHOTO BY ARIANA PAGENETTE ’18

ARIANA PAGENETTE ’18 Section Editor Coming in as all the students leave is how Lawrence Summey III spends his day. Usually seen with headphones in, listening to music, he is a member of the janitorial staff.

Starting out on the night shift of the Boll Center, he is now the head of the afternoon shift in the main building of Grosse Pointe South.

“It’s a lot of work and he is a very dependable person and we can count on him to come to work,” athletic director Jeremy Hawkins said.

Summey is a people person, and he even takes the time to invest in being able to know the students of the the school, and even families, according to Hawkins.

“This knowledge helps anticipate when people come, what they are going to need, and how to help them,” Hawkins said.

Following the last North versus South football game, Summey came out with his team to help clean up, untill their shift was done for the night.

He then returned the next morning to finish the job, Hawkins said.

“Summey knows what he is doing and he is good at what he does,” Madison Griffin ’18 said.

According to Griffin, he doesn’t just go about his job, he cares and takes the time to get to know the students.

“He interacts with us students, and if we need him, he is always there,” Griffin said.

When hanging signs for the football team on Thursday nights,Summey is always there to let her into the S Building, Griffin added.

“I like South because I like to help and feel needed, and I am definitely needed here,” Summey said.

Hawkins said that one thing people may not know about Summey is that he is has a pretty good background in sports.

“He will stop to see a kid and wish them luck before their game or see them after to see how it went,“ Hawkins said.

Summey even knows certain parents as he is charismatic

VEGGIES AND VEGANS DVS is located on Agnes St, in Detroit.

It offers street parking but no reservations.

quicker and have trouble sitting in a desk all day long,” Caralis said.

Over the past few years, standing desks have become a hot item on the market as an alternative method to study. According to Brooklier, these standing desks may be popular, but their benefits are minimal.

“Interestingly, there’s not a lot of benefits to standing and just standing in one place,” Brooklier said. “There’s not a lot of evidence that static standing is any different than sitting.”

Instead of standing desks, Brooklier said the best thing to do is get up and move to take a break from studying.

“Really as individuals, we get our most benefit from physical movement,” Brooklier said.

Nguyen agrees with Brooklier and feels it is important to have the opportunity to move when studying.

“I think just sitting down, it’s not healthy for the body,” Nguyen said. “You can’t move your blood around for circulation and that’s not good.”

GRAPHIC BY RILEY LYNCH ’18

8 | FEATURE

THETOWERPULSE.NET | 10.4.17

From Blue Devil to All-American: Cam Shook

ALL AMERICAN

ISABELLA CRAPAROTTA ’19 AND MADELINE ALLEN ’20 Staff Writers

Girls field hockey strives for success ALYSSA COLE ’19 Staff Writer To honor the seniors on the girls varsity field hockey team, the team plays a game against Saline High school on Oct. 10.

Senior night is dedicated to all the seniors on the team to recognize what they want to do and where they want to go.

It is also a night to celebrate the accomplishments they have made throughout high school, according to team captain Hannah Voytowich ’18.

During the game, underclassmen will have a chance to appreciate the seniors on the team, congratulate them for their success and wish them luck for the future.

“We have only won one game this season, so my thoughts are mostly depressing in that regard,” team captain Elise Whitney ’18 said. “However, this is one of the most fun teams I have ever been on. Everyone is so close, we are a family and that makes losing easier because we all still support each other so much.”

Although the team has not had the outcome they have wanted this year, the team and program is having a lot of fun, and according to Whitney, in the end, that is what really matters.

“My goal for the rest of the season is to keep our positive attitudes and to keep having lots more fun,” Whitney said.

Q

&

A

How long have you been playing football?

I started playing football five years ago.

I immediately fell in love with it once I understood what it was.

Who has impacted you the most as an athlete?

My dad. My dad doesn’t take my best as my best. He knows I can do better even when I’ve done my best. He really pushes me to be the best I can be. At times, it can get annoying, but when I see the outcome, it’s well deserved.

KICKING IN Shook kicks the football across the South field on Sept. 22.

Are there any sacrifices you’ve made to get to this point as a football player?

I’ve sacrificed parties. As a recruited player by division programs, they really knock down on you about where you go and what you’re doing. To throw all of that in the risk of one night of having a good time, it doesn’t make sense to me. I know exactly what I want to do with my future.

I’m a man with a plan.

BLUE DEVIL PRIDE The Blue Devils play the Norsemen at their rivalry game on Sept. 22.

Is there something special you tell yourself before each game?

Today, I will do what others won’t so tomorrow, I will do what others can’t. That pushes me to be more determined. The other is a Bible verse, Philippians 4:13, ‘I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.’ That one really helps me with whatever I need to push through.

What is All-American?

To be an All-American football player is an extremely tough process. You have to film multiple sessions of you playing, kicking, doing anything you can do to get your name out there. You have to reach out to them first, and Twitter is a huge way to help build connections and relationships. I’ve had a few coaches put in a good word for me.

IT’S GOOD Cameron Shook standing on the South field while playing Utica on Aug. 11.

PHOTO COURTESY OF CAMERON SHOOK ’18

How did you find out you made All-American?

I woke up on a Monday morning around 6:30 and got a Twitter notification; I checked Twitter and I had a mention. It was the place where my kicking coach sent my name, my stats and my film in to, and I was ecstatic.

Girls varsity tennis coach reaches hall of fame BIANCA PUGLIESI ’19 Supervising Editor Head tennis coach Mark Sobierlaski was recently inducted into the Coaches Hall of Fame, one of only 26 tennis coaches inducted since the 1950s.

“It’s pretty incredible,” Sobieralski said. “There was 16 coaches that got inducted this year, but I was the only tennis coach.”

Tennis captain Lauren Somerville ’18 is proud of her coach and his induction.

“He’s been a great coach to all of us girls and a role model for all of us to follow,” Somerville said. “For countless years, he has poured his heart and soul into our girls tennis team and the results show.”

Laurel Sullivan ’19 believes Sobierlaski deserves the recognition by the Coaches Hall of Fame.

“Mark is a great coach and has done great things for our team,” Sullivan said In the wake of his induction, Sobieralski reflects on the fact that throughout his coaching career, he has been able to see his team grow up and become successful.

“I’ve done this for so many years that a lot of the girls are married and have kids and it’s kind of cool to see that they’re doing well,” Sobieralski said.

“It’s cool that I’ve had a part in their life because when I’m with the kids, it’s not just about tennis. We talk about school, their boyfriends, who they like, who they don’t like. I’m like their second dad.”

FIRE UP Coach Sobieralski cheers with the girls varsity tennis team during Semifinals and Finals day at the state tournament. Sobieralski has coached the team to more top 5 state wins than any other tennis team in the state.