Troy High School, 4777 Northfield Parkway Troy, MI
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He Said... AMANDA MCCAFFERTY
Valentine’s Day Ads pages 4 & 5
Teacher Relationship Advice Page 3
...She Said Page 7
theTR YINDEPENDENT Vol. 3 Issue 6 Due to recent events, Troy High’s administration has looked over the guidelines for electronic devices and decided on some new changes around the school. Before this new policy, cell phones or any electronic devices were not allowed by teachers and were prohibited on campus between 7:20 a.m. and 2:04 p.m. Failure to obey these procedures resulted in an instant Saturday school. Starting in 2014, Troy High teachers have decided on what “light” their classroom will be. Teachers have provided a large poster or sign in their room, clearly stating if they have a red, yellow or green light room. Their introduction will include a set of guidelines for device use to follow while in their classroom. Also, students will be permitted use of devices during lunch and passing time. “Red” light room: All electronic devices are
Fresh phone policy
Juniors Kaitlyn Sanback (left) and Jacob Parry (right) take advantage of the new phone policy by using their phones during lunch. banned from use inside these classrooms. “Yellow” light room: All electronic devices shall be kept away until the teacher -
lows usage in the classroom. “Green” light room: Students can freely use any electronic/mobile device during appropriate times in these classrooms.
THS freshman represents USA
SANDRA CUTEAN
BY SANDRA CUTEAN
thetroyindependent.org
February 14, 2014
“The new policy involves a good way for students to know when to have their phone out,” junior Ayah Aly said. “It’s a clear standard for them to know when it’s ap-
Moved to the mitten
BY BETI SHAHOLLARI
While most spent the holiday break in the cold, snowy Michigan weather, freshman Edward Song traveled to the United Arab Emirates. Traveling 7,110 miles to the sunny, warm weather, Edward spent ten days competing at the World Youth Chess Championship. To qualify for a tournament of this caliber he had to be nationally ranked with a minimum score of 2250. The score is compiled from previous wins, losses and draws. Each day Edward, along with the other
Everyday is a new chapter in a book called life. While many students continue with their everyday school life and write on the same pages, some start fresh by starting a new chapter. Troy High is a very diverse school. This diversity is especially seen when students move to the United States from different parts of the world to start a new life and grab different opportunities. Troy High welcomes new students every year. As they are introduced to an unfamiliar environment and culture, new challenges come along their way. The unfamiliarity can lead to a feeling of insecurity and perhaps homesickness. “I moved here from China [last] summer,” junior Shenglish was really bad. I [could not] say what I wanted, so there [were] always a lot of problems communicating.” It is natural for one to feel overwhelmed and unable to cope with new situations while adjusting to their new life, but Troy High students seem to know how to handle it. “I moved here from Greece in September,” junior Michael Demetriou said. “It was not too hard to adjust, because I didn’t have any trouble with the language. I’ve made lots of friends and most of the time I don’t feel lonely.”
COURTESY OF EDWARD SONG
BY KATIE LUONGO
(Top) Edward Song (left) poses with former Troy High student Safal Bora (right) while visiting United Arab Emirants for an International chess competition. competitors. a really complex game [with many] strategic ideas and moves. I practiced a lot [leading up to the tournament].” seventh place out of 90 plus
COURTESY OF EDWARD SONG
States, competed against students from all over the world. He was placed in the under 14 age group, playing one game of chess each day. Getting to such a high level of competition did not come without dedication. “I learned [how to play chess] at the age of seven, and I started playing seriously at nine years old,” freshman Edward Song said. “Chess is
propriate and when it’s not.” Before the policy, Troy High students were seen wandering the halls and sneaking their phones out during class and getting away with it. Sophomore Dane Date and senior Charlotte Stormer agree that the phone policy is a change for the better. However, Stormer sees some negative effects of the policy. “I think it’s a good idea to start letting students have their phones out,” Date said. “[We] don’t have to sneak it around when no one is looking.” “It’s a good idea that teachers get to decide how they want their classrooms to be,” Stormer said. “[But] I feel like the green light would be too much freedom, and it will end up being distracting.” In the eight years that assistant principal Remo Roncone has been present at Troy High, the cell phone
competitors. He scored 8 out of 11 points, having 7 wins, two draws and two losses. It was an intense tourround he found himself in second place, but lost to the eventual tournament winner moving him down to 13th place. Edward come back and won the next round, moving him into 7th place At such a high level of competition, even the most collected person can become nervous. The atmosphere in the tournament room was intense. Tables were See Freshman page2
in different situations, such as adjusting to the American educational system, communicating in their non-native language and getting used to a different cuisine and physical environment. Students that come from a different background can contribute to the diverse community of Troy even more with their different ideas, culture, experiences and knowledge. Despite the cultural differences that these students face, the welcoming community of Troy High make them adjust faster and feel more comfortable. “Students in my classes are more active,” Lee said. “I feel like I am surrounded by passion and humor. It is really nice here.” When one is willing to undertake a life changing adventure, how do they make the best out of it? “I’ve gotten fully adjusted, and I’m now in a new daily routine of school and sports,” Demetriou said. “It is very different, but I like most of the things. I like the cold weather and the more northern landscape. School is fun and so are my friends.” “The school here is betthat students and teachers are more friendly.” “I came here in September from Mexico,” senior exchange student Vicen-
policy has remained consisjor change that he has seen. “As phones have changed and improved their capabilities, eventually we had to alter the rules.” Roncone said. “The district is moving towards a BYOD (bring your own device) policy for next year and since that’s coming down the road, why continsemester? With so many kids having access to smart phones, it’s a shame we’re not utilizing and incorporating them into classrooms for educational purposes.” There are many pros and cons involved with usage of electronic devices. For example, an advantage is that their work early and use their extra class time to play games like Flappy Bird. Other students can have more and can present their work easily off of their laptop or tablet. On the other hand, these rules can be effortlessSee Phone Policy page2
te Zorilla said. “I started improving my English by talking to teachers and friends [in school]. It is a new experience. It is different but better, [and] I like it.” Even though the environment is more friendly, the school system here in the United States can be hard for foreign students to understand at times. “There is more reading work here compared with my classes in China,” Lee said. “Math [class] is easier, but the other classes like World and American History and English are harder,” Demetriou said. Demetriou says that back in Greece there was more material to be learned, which also had a greater intesting is not as common as it is in America. In Greece, there is a time period of two weeks where all the teachers test students. Students take tests everyday during these two weeks, and then learn without standardized testing during the rest of the school year. This happens twice a semester, which Demetriou thought was more convenient. Students who move to the U.S and enroll at Troy High are just like any other student. Adjusting quickly to the new environment and involving themselves in school activities, they have become a part of the Troy High family.
Features
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The passion behind IASA BY AMANDA GUO
Seinors Sachin Ketkar and Shachi Srivatsa pose for their performance in the Culture Show. They are both members of the Indian American Student Association (IASA). From Phone Policy page 1 easily off of their laptop or tablet. On the other hand, these rules can be effortlessly abused. Kids can walk into class and never look up from their phones until the hour is over, and they do not have to worry about getting it taken away because they are protected by the rights of the “green light.” Physics teacher John Morrison assigned a green light to his room. Students frequently use cell phones in his classroom because smart phones provide as experimental equipment as a stopwatch or videotapes
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show. The IASA show will be held in late April, and it will showcase a large variety of Indian dance styles such as Bollywood, Bhangra, Classical and Garba. The club meets once or twice a month in foreign language teacher Joslin John’s room to practice or create
choreography and go over the details of what is currently happening in the club. “I’m glad that they are interested in celebrating Indian heritage,” John said. “The students do everything and are responsible.” Many IASA members agree that the club has helped them reconnect with their culture, while also having a great time with peers. “A few years ago, I used to do a lot of Indian dances with my friends that we would perform at our temple during religious holidays,” senior Sachin Ketkar said. “Since I haven’t done that in a couple years, it’s really fun for me to be involved in Indian dance again.” Now that the culture show and IASA’s very own show are coming closer, more practices and meetings will be added in preparation.
“The selected choreographers have already been meeting once or twice a week at each other’s houses to create all the moves,” Ketkar said. “Starting soon, club members will be meeting once or twice a week to start learning and practicing the dances.” Besides practicing the dance choreography, IASA also makes an effort to include other activities that aim to share Indian culture. Everyone is invited to join the club, even those who do not dance. “We’re not here to dance for a competition. We’re just here to spread the culture,” senior Shruti Avutapalli said. “You don’t have to be Indian to join, either. Absolutely everyone is welcome.” Those who do not want to dance can still actively participate by helping the club
with fundraisers, costumes, props and numerous other behind the scene tasks. The club, after all, is ultimately focused on spreading the passion of Indian culture. “We’re really proud of being from such a great country, so we’re just sharing our love with the rest of the school,” Avutapalli said. Other members of IASA share the same enthusiasm for the club. “Even though the practices are a lot of work, with my friends there, it’s hard not to have a good time,” Ketkar said. “[IASA] has helped me experience my heritage and culture with great people,” Balakrishnan said. “It’s amazing to have a club like this at Troy High. Usually these kinds of groups only exist in college.” Members of the club work
hard to make sure the club has a friendly, drama-free environment. From the beginning, the founders of the club had decided that they wanted IASA to be a happy place for everyone. In IASA there is no hierarchy, and therefore no president or vice president, only a board of students who all serve as equals. “ We’re all here to share something we love,” Avutapalli said, “and we don’t want anything to ruin that.” IASA is now in full swing, and the members of the club share high expectations for the future. “We’re hoping this club will continue for years even after we’ve graduated,” Avutapalli said. Now that things are underway, it seems that IASA is here to stay.
to analyze motion or forces. “I made my room green for several reasons,” Morrison said, “I believe students should learn, in high school, how to act in a professional environment. I see engineers walking around the GM Tech Center or Ford headquarters texting as they walk. Plus, who doesn’t love Michigan State?” On the contrary, sometimes the curriculum truly does not need a device to enhance the potential for further education. History teacher Dan Mastrovito has put up a red light sign in his room because he stands strongly behind Troy High’s previous policy.
“This way I can control when the students may use their cell phones,” said Mastrovito. “I believe [electronics] are too distracting to both the students and myself and are unnecessary most of the time.” Many of Troy’s teachers are content with a “yellow light” room. It is an easy way for them to approach their class with a set of guidelines that allows students to make mature decisions about device use while enriching educational experiences. “I chose yellow because I think there are times where cell phones can be used appropriately and I don’t think
that a student checking an occasional text or message will be that distracting,” English teacher Harriet Clark said. “There are many ways to get distracted—a cell phone is not the only way to inappropriately use time in a classroom—checking a text or email, in 2014 is the equivalent to 10 years ago when kids wrote notes to a friend or “doodled.” Thanks to the new policy, teachers will be able to come up with a set of rules that will hopefully satisfy both theirs and the students’ wants and needs from these changes.
From Freshman page 1
they were able to explore the United Arab Emirates. “We [visited] Dubai and Abu Dhabi. I went with four other U.S. players, and we went to the Dubai Mall, saw a seven star hotel and saw giant [sand dunes]”, Edward said, “One thing different in the United Arab Emirates is the clothing, the women had their heads covered, and the men wore a lot of black.” The World Youth Chess Championship crossed culture boundaries and brought the world together under one roof, giving Edward Song and all the other competitors an experience of a lifetime.
IASA, or the Indian American Student Association, is one of the newest clubs at Troy High and is a step forward in heightening diversity in the school. “Through IASA, we aim to share and teach people about the different aspects of Indian culture, mainly through dance,” senior Ahilan Balakrishnan said. IASA is currently preparing for their performances in Troy High’s Culture Show
lined up and matches were played simultaneously. At times it came down to pure adrenaline to win the match. “I got pretty nervous,” Song said. “I remember in the sixth round I had to play the guy a really sharp, intense game. He outplayed me. The turning point for me came in the last round. I had a huge boost I would not lose the game.” The visit was not all about playing chess though. On one out of the ten days the competitors were there, they were allowed a free day where
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Features
The Queen of Hearts
sneaky ways t o get them to slip up and talk, ultimately causing the guys to give them their heart. At the end of the day, whichever girl has the most hearts wins and is considered the “Queen of Hearts”. Troy High’s initiative in creating this school-wide Valentine’s Day game has paid off. Plenty of students enjoy participating each year. Each guy receives a paper heart in the morning, and as the day goes on, the hearts slowly disappear off of them and are given to the girls who were able to make them talk. Contrasting other students’ opinions, however, some
people think this competition is silly. Instead of participating, the game is more of a joke to them. As a result,
in the in the competition aspect of the game, but they participate nonetheless. Whether someone has a valentine or not, each per-
s o n
m a n y give their hearts to their friends or to whoever asks for it. “It is really funny to see guys giving them to [their friends],” junior Jacob Jaisinghali said. This game, for some, is just a light-hearted way for the whole school to celebrate Valentine’s Day. They may not get involved
Polar Vortex blankets Troy BY BRENDAN BATTLE
BY OLIVIA MOSS What is known to many as just a face on a card, the king or queen of hearts is a notable Troy High tradition. Each year, either the girls or the guys are given hearts for the other to try to steal; this year it is the girl’s turn. As the guys try to keep their mouths shut, the girls
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is given the
opportunity to enjoy the holiday. However, some doubt whether this game is a le-
gitimate competition, where rules are followed and people play fair, or if it has been transformed into a popularity contest. “I think [the guy] will give their heart to someone with outer beauty,” freshmen Julie Eiler said. Whichever girl gets the guy’s heart, though, is all his choice. Just as humans choose who they want to love, the guys choose which girls they want to talk, and ultimately give their heart, to. However people choose to participate in Troy High’s “Queen of Hearts” competition, it is a way to get everyone involved and in the holiday spirit. Valentine or no valentine, love is something that can be shared with anyone and everyone, and at all times.
It’s been all over the news lately- a “polar vortex” of snowy weather and low temperatures has been sweeping the country, making record-setting low temperat u r e s and heavy s n o w storms. But unlike many stories of weather gone wild, this one is striking close to home. This year, the Detroit area has faced a yearly snowfall more than 22 inches above average and average temperatures nearly 10 degrees below the normal rate-and we’re not even done with winter yet. You’ve probably noticed that it’s getting extremely cold this winter-due to extreme weather, off from school and count-
ing since the start of January. This may be good news for students, but bad for teachers, who have been forced t o cut down on lessons and speed up study times to make up for the lost days. To make a snowy day into a snow day, says Troy Schools communications secretary Kerry Birmingham, weather forecasters and public works administrators in charge of plowing to decide how much snow or ice is needed to make it unsafe to travel (there is temperature or snow amount that makes it a day off). It may be nice to have a surprise day off, but Troy parents and teachers-and even some students-are hoping the cold snap will end soon.
Relationship advice in 15 words or less: teacher style BY DAN CHMIELEWSKI
Valentines day is upon us, and here to help us navigate the taxing maze of juvenile companionship in 15 words or less are Troy High’s very own teachers and staff. “Love y o u r s p o u s e enough to allow them the freedom to pursue their loves.” Science teacher Bill Hevel
“Don’t p l a n things on any season, it will get cancelled.” Psychology teacher Kelly Forshey “Treat your partner equally and communicate often.” Elena Wollberg
“Don’t get divorced, because every time you do you lose half of what you have.” -Math teacher Joe Moceri
“Fall in love every day.” Principal Mark Dziatczak
love.” Science teacher Bob Hamilton
“ A woman who has never seen her hus-
“If you like it, then you should have put a ring on it.” English teacher Jayna Salk
“Happy wife happy life.” Science teacher Ransom Brown
know what a patient man she married.” Science teacher Jeff Forshey
“She’s always right.” Science teacher Kim Robles “Being married is great. I haven’t had to make a decision in 6 years.” -History teacher Scott Gibbons “Never go to bed mad.” -Meghan Sermo
“Marry for money, you can always learn to love.” Math teacher Matt Reimann
“Compromise!!!” Substitute teacher Carol Rupkey “Couples who play together stay together.” French teacher Susie Fortuna
“Don’t be a woman who needs a man, be a woman a man needs.” -Assistant principal Melissa Curth “Having a boyfriend or girlfriend during high school i s n’ t that important. Build relationships with your family.” Math teacher Jenny Sobczynski
“Open, honest communication is key.” Counselor Anne Young
“Girls t h i n k boys are dumb. Boys think girls are crazy,” History teacher Megan Hall
“Never say I told you so.” staff member Ellie Talsma
“Marry someone you get along with because in the end it’s just you and them.” Science teacher Autumn Spiteri “Never have a relationship for more than 6 months.” History teacher Dan Mastrovito [Happily married for almost twenty years]
“Find someone who makes you feel special/ doesn’t run over [your] foot with your own car.” English teacher Laura Liamini
“Ultimately the bond of all companionship, whether in marriage or in friendship, is conversation.” Assistant principal Remo Roncone quoting Oscar Wilde
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Anna Cheong, 나 너 좋아하냐? Do I like you? -Wan Kim
Hannah “Banana” Rusgo, Ugg, you are the best husband a woman can have. I love you friend! Xoxo! <3 -Maxine Toukhanian
Lena Matti, You are so beautiful and such a sweet heart. -Alondra Krome
Srinivas Simhan, Hey, Big Brother! Robotics with you is super cool and I love how you teach me K-Pop dance moves :D Happy V-day! -Brandon Guo
Jacob Jaisinghani, You’re my favorite homie! Happy Valentine’s Day -Arla Burnazi
Lueda Shemitraku, Dear Luedes, I <3 your face. You know I only did this because you bought me one! -Maddie Darish
BE MINE
Daria Sterp, You are the best friend that had in high school. -Alondra Krome
HUGS
Chris Chen, Roses are red, violets are blue, you can’t spell menu without me and you. -Matt
Austin, Happy Valentine’s Day Honey Boo Boo! -Katie
Elyse Haboush, You’ve put me through WWIII, but I won the war. I love you! -Jacob Meissner
BE MINE
Nora, You know who you belong to. -Alina and Tiffany
Kyle Booth, I got you this ad -Makenzie Blain
HUGS
Newspaper staff, Thank you all for an amazing year! I love every single one of you. Happy Valentine’s Day! -MK
Marley, You’re beautiful. you light up my world. -Jonathen Ericson
Patty Durell, Happy Valentine’s Day to my partner in crime, and best sister ever. PS. Thanks for putting me in a bubble the first 10 years of my life. -Megan Durell
Tiffany Kim, Like crazy. -Aaron Lai
Sandra Cutean, HC? -Dan Chmielewski
Maddy Martin, I love you girl! :) -Grace Labelle
Alan Wu, Please can I be you? You’re hotter than a fire in a nursing home. - Alex Liu
Valentine’s Day Ads
BE MINE
Sophia Salinas, Roses are red, violets are blue; I’ve never met someone as beautiful as you -Drew Sefolli
HUGS
Danielle Shuwayhat, I secretly like you a little bit…Shhh… -Danny Ashtiani
Simon Ma, Finger Tutting :D -Brandon Guo
Erika Barker, I love you the most and you want to come over after school any day? Want to sleepover at my house? -Emily Bernacki
BE MINE
Katie Martin, I love you. Will you be my Valentine? -Shane Bachynski
Amna Tayyabi, I LOVE YOU! -Brooke Butris
HUGS
Waleed Alrawi, I love you with the heat of a thousand suns. You really do “light up my world like nobody else.” -David Yang
Nolan Holland, Sup pup? -Abby Green
Arla Burnazi, “We’re in the newspaper!....Solid” -Jacob Jaisinghani
BE MINE
Alana D, Hey Sassy! You’re amazing and beautiful girl. These four years have been amazing with you! :) - Sarah M.
Beti, I love you so much! -Sydney Koncagul
Amanda McCafferty, Happy Valentine’s Day! Love you Roomie <3 -Carls P.S. I did this just for you and you obssession with newspaper.
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Gabby, Happy valentine’s Day Gabby! I love you :) -Patrick
HUGS
Jonathan, We’ve ungrounded, so when you’re ready come and get it! XOXO -Carlie Sebastian
David Yang, Your eyes sparkle like sapphires, which are the most durable of all stones. -Waleed Alrawi
Beti Shohollari, Sorry I didn’t buy an ad from you...Love you! -Zara Nurce
Maddie Darish, You’re a babe. I <3 you. Only did this because you bought me one. You’re welcome! -Lueda Shemitraku
Christy Welch, You have alot of swag, I worship you. -Eric Huang
Mako, We’ll show you a sight you’ve never seen before! :) -Rin Haru
Tiffany Wu, Lol dork. -Noah Napiewoki
Kathie Lee Ilysm! Hope to see you when I come to Detroit :) -Harry Styles (Madeline)
BE MINE
Brooke Butris, I LOVE YOU! -Amna Tayyabi
HUGS
Afaaf, Heal faster so you can run and be my Valentine <3 -Zara Nurce
BE MINE
Kathey Xavier, Hi! I love you! Okay bye! -Afaaf Nassif
HUGS
Annie chennie, I luv u. BOO-BOOBOO-BOO <3 -Stephh T
BE MINE
Elsa Koran, Happy birthday Mom! (Jan. 31, 2014) Teach me your violin skills! :D -Brandon
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David YangNever gonna give you up, Never gonna let you down, Never gonna run around and desert you! -Waleed
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Nik Sciortino, Happy Valentine’s Day, I hope it’s the best -Ana
Troy High, May all your days be great! -Mario (Mike)(Ben)
LOVE YOU
David Huang and Mihir Patel, I win. “You are now my…” Sarah Tsung
Zapril, Zan zi zave za zip zof zour zaza zola? -Zurca
Shaney Bear, I love you and I like your face. I win. -Katie Martin
Draco Malfoy (Jenny Schlafhauser), Draco, I adumbledore you! Love, Pansy (Madeline Simone)
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Valentine’s Day Ads Continued L
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Mr. Zawislak, Sorry for the drop in our grades. We love you! -Thisal, Katelyn, and Saketh
Howard Chang, Happy Valentine’s Day! XOXO <3 -Amy Freeman
Alan Wu, You’re nicer than a Delux Betty Crocker Crockpot. -Alex Liu
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Joffrey Baratheon, Congratulations on your upcoming wedding! We wish you a long, happily married life! -Whitney Zhou, Isabelle Huang, & Michelle Liu
Eric Cheng, Tenor! <3 -The Godspell Cast
ILY
Eric, GÜD. -Christy
LOVE YOU
Michaela Bolas, You light up my life <3 Happy Valentine’s Day! -Amy Freeman
Susana Mendoza Diaz, You are a very nice and good friend. -Alondra Krane
Waleed, All by myself… Don’t wanna be… All by myself… -Waleed
Mr. Aldinger, Ramen, Chipotle -Andrew Ferriby, JJ Pods and Brian Elsas
ILY
Keeto Palani, I love you. P.S. you’re a cutie. -Julie Eiler
LOVE YOU
Mama K, Happy Valentine’s Day cutie! -Austin Smith
Reem Tabla, Marhaba habibi happy valentine’s day! -Zhenhuan Wu
Mrs. O/Ms. DWe love you and could not ask for a better advisor! Thanks for putting up with all of our shenanigans! -Newspaper Staff
Aditya Das, Did you fart? Because you just blew me away. -Kavya Gandra
Newspaper Staff, Thank you for always making me laugh! You are all amazing! -Mrs. O/Ms. D
Kyle Mee-aye, If there were an award for Most Moe, 3D dude, you’d win second place. ‘Cause you’re adorbs. -Michelle
Troy Theatre Ensemble, Everyone in Godspell keep working hard! You guys are doing great! -Baily Craig
LOVE YOU
Big Nat, Hey Karl, will you be my Valentine? Love, Karla. -Rachel Smith
ILY
Daniella Scaccia, Love you lell! You are so sweet! I am so glad we are friends! -Chloe Strefling
LOVE YOU
Zamm Damian, Rachet says happy Valentine ’s Day. Luhh yo crunch friend Sarah.
Sona, Hello friend! You are my sister forever and I love you! Xoxo -Hannah
Jonathan, We’ve ungrounded, so when you’re ready come and get it! XOXO -Carlie Sebastian
Ben Balas, Ben- you are smart, kind, and handsome. –Everyone (Ben Balas)
Zara Nurce, Girl, you must be Instagram, because I’m liking what I see. -Beti Shahollari
Mrs. SobcyznskiDear Mrs. S, we’re your best class. You are a goddess of mathematics! XOXO, Ana Otero and Dan Chmielewski
LOVE YOU
Cammielle Gwisdalla & Ann Liu, Hi guys, wanna get food later? -Marissa Ceccato
ILY
Melissa Rowley, Hey Melly, you aren’t funny, but I still love you. -Nick Eighmey
Alexa Pinneo, To my little fishy, hi! You are the most beautiful and amazing girl ever. I am so lucky to have you in my life! Just remember, 1% ‘cause you never know! I love you! Love, Ricky.
Bonnie Oriz, All I ask is that you smile, for winter day I saw your face, winter day I saw your grace, for beauty the world to behold, for beauty great and gold. -Joshua R
ILY
Naya Moreno, It’s been fun working with you at the “Dally’s Room” and you are a luscious dessert like Adam Lambert. -Sarah M
Issack Moody, U Rock. I luv u. -Yolanda
Troy Independent staffers, Thank you all for being amazing. We have pulled off some amazing stories this year! NO Oxford commas! Love you! :D -Your editors :)
Brendan Blain, So…PROM? -Athena and Sarah
Alondra and AsTYou guys are my best friends and I love you <3 Keidi Laho
Makenzie Blain, You’re my valentine <3 -Kyle Booth
Dhruv Medarametla, Roses are red, violets are blue, you are small, Merry Christmas. -Alex Liu
The Troy IndependentGreat job on the website! It is PERFECT! Katherine Maher
Daniel Wu, You’ll be a fantastic astronaut! -Sarah Tsung
ILY
Alomdra Krome, Hey babe: x -Daria
Lauren Valice, Isn’t it great? Isn’t it grand? I think you’ve got it! Girl you on fire! -Meg Brokenshine and AJ Hirsch
Sports
(Above) This year’s brackets for the boys’ annual powerpuff game was bigger than ever, with a reDamian Howard-Doney spikes the ball over the net. The boys “power”puff charity volleyball games came to an end on February 12, and was bigger than ever. This year, there were a total of 16 teams, eight junior teams and eight senior teams, and the players were dressed in head to toe in their team colors. The game is simple: a game for two teams, consisting of six players, in which a volleyball is hit by hand over a high net, the goal being
to score points by making the ball reach the ground on the opponent’s side of the court. The winners advance through the brackets(see above) until the winner of the junior league and the winner of the sein the championship round. Before the competition, players boasted about their team on the courts was the
ent and I have no worries,” senior Jake Meissner of the Graphite team said. “I love volleyball and play a lot of beach volley with my friends.” “I played in school gym classes and in family get-togethers, so you could call me a seasoned veteran,” junior Chris McCloskey of the Light Blue team said. line rushed the courts on Wednesday, February 12, but all teams were in agreement: they needed a plan and they needed athleticism if they wanted to win. “All of the players on my team have played before,” senior
The secret life of a basketball player BY ANNIE CHEN AND YIFENG LI In any basketball game, the players are seen sprinting from one side of the court to the other. The short screeches of the basketball players’ shoes mix with the pounding sounds of the ball against went in, whether he scored or whether they won or lost is all what’s seen on court.
But the hours of practice, the traditions before a game and the traits boys’ basketball players aim for are all the secrets to the inside life of a Troy High basketball player. Preparation Alongside the typical daily practice, on the week of a basketball game, the THS boys’ basketball team work on scrimmages, or practice games, and lay-up drills during practice. To
get a heads up of the opponent’s strength and weaknesses, the team reviews videos of the other team’s games and practice ways to combat any situations the boys may encounter. Individually, each player prepares differently. Senior Chris Dorsey said that he practices by rolling the ball to himself, along with dunking or shooting free throws. Before a game, senior Demonta
Behind the scenes BY RACHAEL ZELMANSKI They might not make the game winning shot or score 20 points a game. They do not run sprints at every practice or run drill after drill. That does not make them any less important. They give up their free time in the name of the team. They are at every 9 AM practice, every scrimmage and every game. They love the sport just as much as any player and they love the team even more. They are the team manager. No one told them to do this. No one forces them to come to every practice, make sure the team has water, take stats at every game. For one, it would mean the world if she could play in that game, but she is plagued by injury. Junior Elyssa Durham has suffered through multiple injuries with her knees and back and was not able to try out for the girls varsity basketball team this year. “I still wanted to be a part of the basketball team in some way, and I knew that the varsity team needed a new manager so I told Mr. Bato that I was interested,” Durham said. “To be honest, I was disappointed in the fact that I couldn’t play this season, because I’ve always wanted to play with this year’s seniors, but this team is very special
to me, and I’m honored to be their manager and spend time with the team. They are like a second family to me.” No matter how hard it was for her to not be able to do what she always dreamed, Durham cared enough to do whatever it took to be a part of the team. In Durham’s eyes, this team is like a family to her, and she will do anything for her second family. For senior Allen Wang, the story is different. Wang plays for a high caliber club team that has a ten month season. Even though Wang has played on the high school varsity team before, playing club prevented him from being on the high school team. It is the rule that if players play on an outside club team during the high school season, they are not allowed to participate on their high school team. “Being the manager is the closest thing to being on the team,” Wang said. “You get to help out during practices and games. Being a manager makes me closer to the team than if I didn’t play at all, but it’s not the same as playing.” It takes more than dedication to be a manager. It takes true love for the sport, and true love for the team they belong to, to go and do what they have done every day.
For junior Elyssa Durham and senior Allen Wang it’s not about what they want, it is about what the team needs. They have put the team’s priorities ahead of their own, took time out of their day and gave their best effort to their sports and teams they are a part of. Senior Elise Johansson is not just your average varsity water polo goalie. Not only does she has dedication to her own sport, but she assistants with coaching the boys water polo goalies. It’s quite easy to imagine it befrom a girl, and also one who is not much older than the people she is coaching. “The boys always showed me a lot of respect,” senior Elise Johansson said. “It was feelings went away, and I gave the goalies the advice and tips that I have gained from playing varsity water polo, I really enjoy what I do.” These three individuals show the extra time and dedication they are willing to put into their sport. In the end, it’s all about the team, making the team better and contributing to them in any way possible. These are the ones whose names aren’t in the spotlights, but shine just as bright.
John Podsiadlik of the Purple team said. “We are all cross country runners and at cross country camp every year we always play volleyball, so we are pretty prepared.” “Samir Patel is basically our secret weapon because he's so athletically gifted,” McCloskey said. “Zac lines and Alex Munch are our front line because of their height and Mike Margilaj is our muscle on the serves. Kyle booth and I are our smaller quicker players, so I’d say we don't have too many weaknesses to worry about. The yellow team
RACHEL SMITH
COURTESY OF SYDNEY ALEXANDER
BY AMANDA MCCAFFERTY AND RACHEL SMITH
2013 junior champions. “We’re not even a little worried,” senior Matt Grecky of the Black team said. “We were junior champs last year and we are going to be senior champs this year.” The returning junior champions seemed to pose a threat for other teams, as well. “I'm worried about the Black team because they were last year's junior champs and will be tough to beat,” senior Drew Majewski of the Red team said. As for the Graphite and Light Blue team, experience
munities that have been hit by natural disasters. “I decided to play because the money goes to a good cause and it should be a fun time,” McCloskey said. “I don't care who wins, after all it's a charity event,” senior Kody Yee of the Navy team said. “I decided to play to make senior memories with my buddies. I played last year as a junior; we got into the second round but took a loss. I'm positive every competing team had a fun experience.” “Back in 10th grade with some of my friends, we won a volley ball tournament for charity with our church,” se-
round. The TBM’s coming.” For the Red team, their strategy was simple. “It's not so much of a bump set spike game for power puff,” Majewski said. “It's literally getting the ball to the other side and hoping they make the mistakes.” Besides for the purpose of having competitive fun, the powder-puff games are also played for charity. Every year, Troy High donates their proceeds raised from power-puff to a charity. This year, THS donated to a charity called “DRAW”, Disaster Relief at Work, which provides relief services to comHood would concentrate on how to play against the opponent, after practicing at Lifetime Fitness and a quick meal. On the other hand, senior Austin Perry makes sure he is relaxed before a game. “As an individual,” Perry said, “I just shot after practice, worked on my ball-handling a little bit, and then went to the gym, got in my hot tub and went home and relaxed.” Tradition What they may believe as good luck charms or just a spirited way to get pumped for the game, some of the boys have certain traditions they do. Sophomore Steven Brennecke typically eats a big meal right after school before a game. Whether it be wich wraps, it always has to be healthy. Dorsey takes a religious outlook and just prays before a game. For every game, Hood wears a pair of socks that his mom buys for him as a fun tradition. “My mom buys me all these crazy socks, and I just have a ton of them,” Hood said. “For today I’m wearing my Betty Boo socks. Last game I wore “Join the Dark side”, they are some Star Wars socks.” Dedication Just as any other high school athlete, the boys’ basketball players spend many hours a week practicing. But what’s different about basketball is the frequent games and long
nior Josh Dubay of the Blue team said. “I decided to play because I thought it would be a really fun thing to do as a senior and with my friends and also to see if we can win the whole thing.” “The charity that the money goes to means a lot because we are playing for a great cause,” junior Erik Papandrea of the Orange team said. “The charity means a lot, it’s a good fun way to help people out,” junior David Murray of the Neon Pink team said. So, win or lose, the games were for a good cause: charity.
AMANDA MCCAFFERTY
2014 “Power”puff
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(Above) Troy High senior varsity basketball player Chris Dorsey makes a layup over Falcon defense. (Bottom Left) Senior varsity basketball player Austin Perry with offensive posession.
AMANDA MCCAFFERTY
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season it has, both testing the athletes endurance in persistently working hard. “As a basketball player you always have to be working on your game,” Perry said, “because if you slack off or stop working you can’t be as good. So you always have to keep working, even in the offseason.” Perry and most of the other boys’ basketball players play up to six days a week, with around two and a half hours each day. But, there’s also players like Dorsey who view basketball as very important to them and play three times a day-- once in the morning and twice in the afternoon. “Right after school we have practice,” Dorsey said. “After practice [I] take a nap, then go to lifetime again or I go to Troy High and shoot, [and] then go to sleep.” Traits Each basketball player has certain traits that they try to follow to be a strong leader. They believe that they can be role models for the newer members on the team through these leadership and respect. Hood said that because
teammates look up to one another, a good role model would have strong leadership to guide them, while is an important trait to have as a basketball player. “Sometimes games can be crazy, and even if your shot’s not falling, and you’re not playing as well as you can,” Perry said, “as you can always end the game well and get the win.” Brennecke said that a basketball player should be hardworking, coachable and smart. He tries to be a leader amongst his peers in basketball by following these traits as much as possible. “Just try to be a good player,” Brennecke said. “I try really hard in school; I stay after practice, and I listen to coach all the time.” The game on court isn’t what it seems like. It seems like just a game with two schools competing against one another, but the hours of work, dedication and principles the Troy High boys’ basketball players commit themselves to is the behind the scenes and the heart of game.
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He Said... BY TOMMY ROWBAL
Ahh, Valentine’s Day. That wonderful day during the frosty February season when all the couples come out of the woodwork in a celebration of unity and romantic demonstrations. The holiday during which, on just about every other corner, you see (or
hopefully
soon-to-be
shaped box of delicious chocolates. The day that…actually, I think I’ve pretty much summed it up. It’s the one day of the year where people are for whatever reason especially obligated to do something special for their romantic interest, boyfriend or girlfriend, “just friend” for those in denial or any other name people decide to classify their relations as. Valentine’s Day is often looked forward to by many lovestruck teenagers (and many adults as well) who want to bring some romance into their life or strengthen ties with the one they are currently courting. However, this is an unusual holiday for a couple of one of the few where we don’t have a day off of school (nudge nudge, Troy School District). The second and debatably more important reason, though, is that it can and usually does mean vastly different things for both genders. For girls, the stereotype goes that it’s all about madly texting with friends “OMG who’s going to ask me out today!” or something along those lines while also going through a severe case
of prom syndrome. Maybe it is that way. I’m not a girl, I really can’t say. But I can say this; for guys it’s a whole other story. It’s pretty safe to divide male reaction to February 14 into two different categories: “single guys” and “taken guys.” For the taken guys, it’s extremely obvious what’s expected of him during this
day: go out there and get or do something REALLY nice and special for your girlfriend/boyfriend/friend/ because this is a day to let your soft side out and show someone you care. Seeing as you’re in a relationship already, if you’re in the “taken” category, it should be rather obvious that you care already but do it anyway. For the single guys however, there are quite a few different types of responses to Valentine’s. There are some guys that are pretty obviously stuck in the back by one of Cupid’s seemingly endless arrows, and they’re pumped, raring and ready to go get the attention of their love interest. It usually takes a lot of guts to do that, too; there are a great many men who wouldn’t dare attempt to try it. But, for some it works, and that night they can go to din-
Opinion
Valentine’s Day ...She ner or a movie with the one reciprocated feelings they’ve been striving for. Alternately, some of those guys end up sitting on the couch that gallon of ice cream, as rejection is a pretty scary thing, but hey, there’s always next year. Then, there’s the second subcategory of the single guys – outright indifference. Some people just don’t treat Valentine’s Day as a day any different than an ordinary day. After all, it’s not like it’s a big event with gaudy decorations like Halloween or the numerous December holidays. Get up, go to school, go home, do homework, in some way or another kill time, go to sleep; not necessarily in that order, but just like any average day. Maybe the thought runs through one of these guys’ heads every once in a while regarding someone they would have liked to give chocolate to or ask out, but typically they don’t devote the large amount of time others do to think about it much further. So, to recap: Valentine’s Day. We either go all out, kind of do something for someone we already have a thing for/ with, or we just plain don’t care. For guys, at least, one of these three are going to apply to you with very little exception. And for those of you who want to stomach your fears and ask your crush out for a quick bite after school, I wish you the best of luck and will be cheering you on from the comfort of my couch with a bowl of chips and a TV remote.
The value of a dollar BY RACHEL SMITH
Okay, THS. Let’s get straight to the point. Most of us have it pretty easy here at Troy High. For the majority, Dad gives you the money for the Starbucks you get every morning, and those keys to your 2014 Jeep Liberty certainly weren’t paid for by your 10-dollar-an-hour babysitting budget. We’re seriously blessed in this day and age, but have you ever stepped back to think about what life would be like if your mom wasn’t there to hand you money at every turn? What if you had to --GASP-pay for everything yourself? Not too pretty, huh? So the math is easy. A student under 18 can work up to 26 hours a week. You get a job at Kerby’s making minimum wage, but you’ll probably only get scheduled 15 hours a week. That ‘s 30 hours on a paycheck, times seven dollars and forty cents an hour. We’ve all got calculators, that’s 222 dollars. Not too bad, huh? Well, taxes will take about 30 of that so you’re down to under two hundred. Now you have about two hundred a
paycheck & two paychecks in a month. You’ve got four hundred dollars to make it 31 days. In a perfect world, you’re
still living with Mom & Dad. For laughs, let’s just say they kick you out once you graduate. June 7 comes around and you’re out of the house. You haven’t been saving money because….well, why would you? But now you’re apartment hunting, and in Troy of all places. The cheapin Troy is starting at 725 a month, so basically that tells you that there’s no way you’re living here. You’ve graduated, so there’s no reason you have to be in Troy, but you want to be close to your friends so you don’t want to go far. So you check
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Royal Oak. Keep in mind you’re looking at a one bedroom, one bathroom apartment, not even including a washing machine. We’re talking bare minimum here. Do you see what I’m saying? So, anyway, Royal Oak. apartment with a special running in Royal Oak starting at 346 dollars a month. That’s got your name all over it. You sign the lease and convince them to not make you put down a deposit. Now handled, it’s time to start saving some grocery money. Now you get the idea, so I won’t go any farther. How does that feel, knowing you wouldn’t even make it through a few months? But reality check-- your parents won’t do that to you. We are all more lucky than we’ll ever know, and next time you’re ticked because your parents won’t let you have 20 bucks to see a movie, think of this and smile, because you’ve got it good.
Did you know that approximately 150 million Valentine’s Day cards are exchanged annually, making Valentine’s Day the second most popular card-sending holiday after Christmas? Similar to your New Year’s Eve kiss, Valentine’s Day is another way of judging your relationship status. Some of us will get greeting cards and stares. Couple pictures dominate Instagram, and Valentine’s Day trends on Twitter. People show love and appreciation for each other by purchasing what seems to have become a tradition on this olate, greeting cards, jewelry and stuffed animals. This day is great for those who have someone to share it with, but not so great for those who are single. It is a reminder that they have not er yet. Being surrounded by heart shaped balloons that say ‘I Love You’ is not the best feeling. Girls tend to watch romantic movies and, therefore have high expectations about relationships and romance. If this day does of ice cream while watching The Notebook. Being exposed to social media will not make this day any easier, considering the fact that many of us wish we have someone to spend it with. Also, by watching TV we start wondering whether there is some secret admirer
who might send us a Hallmark card or even a rose on
us single, are we supposed to avoid any social interaction that day and lock ourselves in a room? No, no. Girls, stay positive. You do not need a man, or a woman, or whomever it is that you like. You do not need anybody to de-
of those women who sends roses to herself. The right moment will come, and one icant other. Until then, enjoy the present, because you are surrounded by family and friends that love and support you. On the other hand, if you are out celebrating with your sweetheart, have the time of your life. Girls usually put a lot of time and effort in picking a present for their loved one and also expect the same in return. our friends about certain entine’s Day style tutorials on Youtube, trying to look our best. We wake up in the
Said
BY BETI SHAHOLLARI
see if that special someone texted us, because hey, it is February 14 and we know our girlfriend or boyfriend is supposed to be romantic. Presents are exchanged, and a lovely atmosphere dominated by the colors pink and red is everywhere. Many of us may argue that Valentine’s Day should not be compulsory on one day only, but there is nothing wrong with having a holiday dedicated to love. After all love does not cost anything but means everything. So guys and girls, if Valentine’s of a sweetheart, put some effort in making him or her feel special that day. And if you are not the romantic type of guy or girl get ideas from someone else or search Valentine’s ideas. They are all over the internet. Girls take this holiday really seriously, so from my perspective, do not disapand show her how much she means to you. Regardless, it is the effort and thought that counts. If you happen to forget about just another Friday, then brace yourself for a scene from the movie The War of the Roses. On this historic day known worldwide, make sure you make yourself happy, whether you have a date or not. Do not let your relationship status get to you, and for those celebrating it, Happy Heart Day!
we do is check our phone to
TV show The Walking Dead rises again, starting strong BY MARISSA CECCATO After a riveting mid-season shows us a deeper, more emotional side of two of our most interesting characters: Carl and Michonne. The transition from an allout war (with tanks!) and real losses to a slow paced world of pure survival- emotionally straining challenges and the unbreakable bond between parent and child. (Spoiler alert) closes the doors for all Governor Theories, closing, for good, the entire story-arch about the prison. This is the closure we so long desired (according to Scott Gimple, a
writer and producer for the show) is going to reveal very different forms of the characters we have grown to understand and deeply care for. More character development and an overall change in the desires of the characters is expected.
With just a few jump-scares and a lot of walkers, season premiere provides an even more emotionally-draining season. Simply the look of some of the walkers was enough to make me uneasyeveryone fending for themselves out in the wild means
this is the new ‘norm’. Carl sitting upon the rooftop also evokes a sense of both pity, and nostalgia for us all, because when we were kids we could eat all the pudding we wanted, and he never has. Michonne showing us the life she possessed and lost, family and all only furthers our wonder for our shielded hero. Overall, the season premiere provided its excited viewing audience with the emotion we crave and the walkers we are so intrigued by. It has set the stage for a season we are expecting to be just as great, if not better than its predecessor. I’ll be sure to keep my tissues handy this time around.
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The Colt-Word
BY BRENDAN BATTLE
Entertainment Across 4. The central borough of New York 7. An actor of few words 9. The longest and shortest days of the year 10. A menacing medieval sculpture 11. Beef, cheese, dressing and sauerkraut
Down 1. The coded precursor to the phone 2. Harry Potter’s nemesis 3. When two animals help each other 5. The galaxy next door 6. The turning point of the Civil War 8. A bird’s feather pen Interested in advertising with us? Contact us at troynewspaper@gmail. com to request information on ad sizing, publication dates, and costs.
Last Issue’s Answers Across 4. Durian 10. Quetzalcoatl 12. Roomba
Down 1. Quartz 2. Minecraft 3. Michaelangelo 5. Nebula 6. Petoskey 7. Recession 8. Ayersrock 9. Waterloo 11. Louisiana
the correct, completed crossword puzzle to Mrs. Opalewski’s room (210), on Monday, February 17th, at the end of the day will recieve a bag of candy. Please do not interrupt her class.
IN CHAN’S INK
BY IN CHAN LEE
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theTROY INDEPENDENT www.thetroyindependent.org troynewspaper@gmail.com editor-in-chief Annie Chen, assistant editor assistant editor photo editor business manager social director web manager Katherine Maher, web manager In Chan Lee, cartoonist Brendan Battle, staff writer Meg Brokenshire, staff writer staff writer staff writer Amanda Guo, staff writer Anna Larson, staff writer Yifeng Li, staff writer Katie Luongo, staff writer Olivia Moss, staff writer staff writer staff writer\ staff writer staff writer advisor
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