Arrow 2021 Issue 6

May 21, 20214Volume 914Issue 6

ARROW Utica High School447255 Shelby Road Utica, MI 483174www.uhsarrow.org

2020 CSPA Silver Crown Award Winner & MIPA Hall of Fame Inductee

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LEAVING THEIR MARK

The class of 2021 begins a new tradition, placing handprints in cafeteria.

Page 9

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PAGE 2 3TABLE OF CONTENTS 3ARROW 3MAY 21, 2021 megan berry photo

CONTENTS 3

4 6 8 9 patty mydlarz photo

TS DECA CELEBRATES ACHIEVEMfoEN r awards this year, so DECA students could not travel mon y. they celebrated in a virtual cere BLE TO STUDENTS VACCINES ARE NOW AVAILAva ine has officially cc 19 DVI CO a ive ce re to e ag e Th nts to get them. de stu y an m r fo gh ou en ed er low been AN FEATURED COVERAGE: RAMAD in Ramadan is Students spill on what participating really like.

COMMIT TING TO COLLEGES ges they will be Students are deciding what colle . attending since getting accepted UNDEFEATED tes break records hle at ck tra ys bo , on as se r lla ste r te Af and head to states.

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FIND EXPANDED COV FROM EVERY PRIN ERAGE T EDITION, NEW STORIES, RE CENT SPORTS SCORES AND MORE AT WWW.UHSAR ROW.ORG.

NEWS

WHAT’S HAPPENING

MAY 21, 20214ARROW4NEWS4PAGE 3

UCS COUNSELING NEED TO MAKE AN APPOINTMENT WITH YOUR COUNSELOR? USE THIS LINK.

Seniors receive updates on year-end events honors night, students will be awarded for their achievements and academic accomplishments.

As the year is starting to come to an end and seniors Senior Device Collection will be held on May 27. prepare for graduation, the start of “senioritis” slowly This is when every senior must turn in their school isarises. Seniors are preparing for AP testing, finals, and sued laptops and any textbooks that were given in the just wrapping up their final year of high school. This is a beginning of the school year. If any of this is damaged or time of stress, but our Utica staff and broken, fees will be distributed. counseling have been working toSenior Cap and Gown Distrigether to make sure that everything bution will be held on May 6 and 7. runs as smooth as possible.

A-K can pick up on May 6 and L-Z Senior balances are due by the can pick up on May 7. Here you can end of the year, they can be paid on pick up your cap and gown for gradPaySchools. On the Quarter 3 report uation. All fines must be paid before cards that were sent via email, the receiving your items for graduation. school included any balances that Senior Formal Celebration will were due. be held on June 3. Tickets will be Senior exams will be held on available on May 10-14. They can be May 25 and 26, with first, second and bought on PaySchools and picked third hour exams on Wednesday and up at school on May 18, 20, and 21. fourth, fifth and sixth on Tuesday.

There are only 6 students allowed at The last day for seniors is the May 27. each table.

Seniors place handprints on the cafeteria wall.

“Exams are separated very simmi singh photo

“I am very excited to be havstrangely this year,” senior Maryann ing this formal celebration” senior Hermiz said. “They are not the norRyan VanHeusden said. “It will be mal day, but that’s okay.” fun to be with everyone before graduation.”

Senior Honors Night will be held on Wednesday Senior Graduation will be held at Freedom Hill on May 26 at 7pm. This is an invitation-only event and the June 5. There will be two guests per student allowed, and students must arrive 30 minutes prior to the set time. In if COVID restrictions reduce, more may be allowed.

SIMMI SINGH

SOCIAL MEDIA EDITOR

DECA celebrates in virtual award ceremony memorizing our lines and lots of rehearsing.”

Preparation was important for all competitions.

Although they didn’t get to travel, DECA students “I was in the Buying and Merchandising Team Decision that made it to the state competition didn’t let that bring event,” junior Molly Stephens said. “The event is focused on them down. Gathered in the ECC room, the business or- evaluating a situation that involves solving how to market ganization gathered to participate in virtual awards. a product, and adding features to make it unique.”

DECA is available to Students had fun in the students with interest in ECC, decorated with business, such as marballoons, while awards keting, entrepreneurship, were announced live. finance, hospitality and “I was shocked, management. because I didn’t expect “The competition ranges to make it through,” from what your interest Stephens said. “The next is. There is travel and step is ICDC, which is tourism, retail, merchannationals.” dising, sports and enter“It was great to see so tainment and so much many students qualify more,” senior Maryam for the International Roel said. “We all prepped Career Development for the test before the Conference,” teacher competition and we did Dana Boice said. “I that by doing exams. We have said to them all prepped with Mrs. Boice, year, ‘Thanks for staying Ms. Mydlarz and Ms. motivated and working Snyder.”

During DECA state awards, held virtually in the ECC, teacher Dana Boice jumps hard when you didn’t Seniors Dylan Lelito out of her seat to celebrate after it was announced that her students won another have to.’ It’s hard during and Austin Shakouri award. patty mydlarz photo this environment and worked together for their with lack of travel.” event, Integrated Marketing Campaign.

A total of ten students made it to nationals, which were “For this event we had to write a10-page paper, take held on May 6. a100-question test, and made a 15-minute presentation,” “It was really cool to see Boice so excited for us,” senior Shakouri said. “This took lots of preparation, including Austin Shakouri said. “It shows she really cares.”

TAYLAR JOHNSON

GUEST REPORTER

Students attend the Diversity Committee meeting once a week from their computers to discuss social issues going on in our school. tom lietz photo

Diversity Committee meets virtually after county summit ETHAN SMALE

BUSINESS MANAGER

In an attempt to become a more progressive school, Utica High School has decided to form the Diversity Committee.

So far, it has been a successful new program that is said to be benefiting all of the students at Utica now and for the future.

When the Diversity Committee started, it wasn’t just based on race, but other things as well, in order to fully accept and welcome diversity into our school with open arms.

This included thing such as religion and gender, among other topics.

“The Diversity Committee was formed when we sent student representatives to the Macomb County Diversity Summit,” principal Tom Lietz said, “where the students discussed race, religion, gender--all aspects of diversity.”

With a new approach to diversity, the school is trying to fully understand all aspects of it in order to be successful in creating an inclusive atmosphere.

“I love the new approach they’re taking on diversity,” Lietz said, “and what it is.”

The committee is ran by the students, meaning that they are the ones developing both the goals and the purpose of the committee. This is to lead the student body in the right direction on social issues presently and for the future of the school.

“So, the overall purpose is to increase the sense of belonging among Utica High School as a vast and diverse community,” senior Mena Murrani said. “A group and I attended the regional diversity summit, and after coming back, we saw how much work needed to be done, so it was decided that we should have group focused on that.”

As the school year was vastly different from past years, many of the clubs at Utica didn’t get to start up at the begining of the school year. This led to a late start on many of the goals put into place for the Committee.

“We started relatively late,” Murrani said. “I just hope that we got it started up so that people are inspired to continue with it and pursue some of our brainstorms in the coming years.”

Although the committee began at the county summit, it has evolved into a committee that comes together every Wednesday to discuss social issues. This includes global issues, but more specifically, addresses current issues being faced in our school, and how to handle them so it can be a limited problem in the future.

According to Lietz, the committee is constantly evolving, and is becoming more important in the school.

Vaccines available PAGE 4 3FEATURE 3ARROW 3MAY 21, 2021

Michigan residents 16 and older eligible for Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccination vaccine.

“It’s not bad at all,” Waterstradt said,” I think it was worth Students began scheduling their COVID-19 vaccination it. It was the least painful shot I’ve ever had.” appointments, as residents of Michigan that are 16 and Sophomore Connor Selk has received his vaccine and older were eligible to receive them starting April 5. with the response he gave it sounds similar to the experience Some students have already received the vaccine and of others that have received their vaccine. sophomore Jacob Lewis is one.

“I felt cold and sore the first day of getting it,” Selk said, “The experience was a bit tedious. It was a lot of waiting “but after that I felt normal.” in lines and getting paperwork filled out and checked, but Like others, the first days of getting the vaccine were the it was efficient.” Lewis most difficult ones with said. “It was an overall the same symptoms as fairly simple and easy others. process.”

Selk is still skeptical When Lewis of how much of a received the first difference the vaccine shot, he wasn’t that has made, but still has concerned with how it not been in contact would work. with COVID since he “I haven’t really got his vaccine. worried too much “I’m not sure,” Selk about its effectiveness,” said, “because I haven’t Lewis said, “since it is really been exposed to only the first shot.”

COVID lately.”

There is a feeling of Even though Selk safety from COVID questions the vaccine’s that came over after effectiveness, he still receiving the vaccine, does feel a lot safer. but the second shot is Because it builds the most important immunity,” Selk said, one to complete the “and if I got COVID, it process. probably wouldn’t be as “I do feel safer from bad.”

COVID now that I Some students haven’t have the vaccine,” received the vaccine Lewis said, “but I will yet but are planning on feel even safer once I receiving it. Opinions get the second dose.” on getting the vaccine Students reported are still mixed among that there weren’t that students.

After receiving her Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine, senior Olivia Hayes has her photo taken many side effects after with her card to share on social media. “I got it at the Macomb Health Department,” Sophomore Sophia the vaccine, besides the Hayes said. “It was very organized, and I had to wait for 15 minutes after to make sure LaBrecque is someone normal soreness and I didn’t have a bad reaction or anything.” Hayes said it was a good decision to make who won’t be receiving vaccines available to more age groups, and hopes her peers will decide to join her in the vaccine at the tiredness from it.

“Receiving the keeping the community safe. olivia hayes courtesy photo moment. vaccine was just like a flu shot,” Lewis said. “The only side “I think I will get the vaccine,” LaBrecque said, “once it’s effect I noticed besides the obvious soreness that comes been out for a little bit longer.” with getting any vaccine, was that I felt very tired about an LaBrecque will eventually be receiving the vaccine, just hour or two after receiving it.” not at this phase.

Lewis wasn’t concerned with these effects.

“I’m worried about the side effects since the vaccine is “his does seem to be a common side effect,” Lewis said, just rolling out,” LaBrecque said, “and the true long-term “as most people I have talked to who have also gotten the effects are unknown.” vaccine have had a similar experience.”

Opinions about the vaccine still differ greatly but those Most people say that the vaccine was worth the who have gotten theirs feel a lot safer form COVID, while experience so that they can be less worried about COVID. people are opting out don’t think the vaccine is worth Sophomore Daniel Waterstradt also received the getting.

JOSHUA RHODES

REPORTER

MICHIGAN COVID-19 UPDATE CONFIRMED CASES

844,320

TOTAL DEATHS

17,727

RESIDENTS VACCINATED

4,009,994

COVERAGE VACCINATED

46.7%

According to the 2019 US Census, the estimated population for Michigan residents 12 and over is 8,594,864. source: michigan.gov as of April 30, 2021

FEATURE INTERESTING STUFF

MAY 21, 20214ARROW4FEATURE4PAGE 5

FEATURE STORIES CHECK OUT ARROW’S ONLINE FEATURE STORIES

Danger trends in social media Online challenges may result in more than going viral ALEX SCHMIDT

REPORTER

After leaving the start of the parade at Grant Park, participants of the Puppy Parade walked, along with their pets, to Pioneer Park, which has two ourdoor areas for dogs. kelly calandrino photo

PUPPY PARADE City of Utica hosts event to raise awarness for animal abuse, invites community to new dog park

tion of Cruelty to Animals month in 2006.”

As a community, residents of Utica decided to come The Utica puppy parade took place April 24, 2021 at together to support the event, because not only was there 2pm, and began at Grant park to the newly opened dog a good cause to support, but the residents felt like they park. With about 150-200 people in attendance, many could trust it even more as a family event for the maysay it was community focused and or and his family all attending as welcoming. well.

“The parade was cute,” soph “I attended the parade with omore Katalina Peters said. “It my wife, son, daughter, and two had free snacks and things for the Boston Terriers, Ella and Lucy,” walkers and the mayor spoke.”

Calandrino said.

Sponsored by the Detroit Pit The parade began at Grant Crew, Utica mayor Gus CalandPark, near the memorial statue for rino spoke about making Utica a the dog that was fatally attacked positive environment for animals there years ago, and continued and fighting against animal abuse across Van Dyke to the new dog and animal cruelty. park, Pioneer Park.

The parade came to fruition to Sponsors that supported this honor national Prevention of Cruyear’s parade offer full support for elty to Animals month. the cause and event and hope it “It was fun and supportive,” Pewill continue on. ters said.

“As an organization that par As there have been multiple ticipates in numerous animal crurecent incidents of animal cruelty cases in both Wayne County elty reported to the Utica police, as well as Macomb County, it’s enCalandrino felt the need to show couraging to see the city of Utica the citizens of the city that these dedicating a day to recognize the inhumane acts do not align with importance of speaking up for the the morals Utica tries to demon- Utica alumni Charles Boris poses with his dog at the voiceless,” Theresa Sumpter, the Utica Puppy Parade. Borus helped the city create the executive director of the Detroit strate.

“As a response to the recent in- dog park when he proposed it as part of his Eagle Scout Pit Crew said. “I hope that evproject. kelly calandrino photo cidents of dog abuse, the city was eryone who loves animals and is looking for a response which would demonstrate that against animal cruelty will come out to show their supUtica is a city that loves, values and protects animals. We port by walking in the parade.” decided to adopt a resolution to declare April as Preven- The Utica Puppy Parade stands firm with its hopes to tion of Cruelty to Animals month,” Calandrino said. “The fight against in the midst of recent animal abuse cases, American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Ani- and not only does the city council, but the citizens as well mals started the national observance of April as Preven- hope that this will become an annual event.

OLIVER GAMEZ

COPY EDITOR

Over the years, many different social media trends have come and gone. Lately, social media trends tend to target teens and children because they are more likely to try these trends. Feeding off of those who want to do what the “cool kids” do, challenges have become dangerous, and even life-threatening.

Some of the most dangerous trends/challenges that have been more popular in recent years includes the pass-out or choking challenge, the cinnamon challenge, the salt and ice challenge, the antiperspirant challenge, and the Tide Pod challenge, one of the most well-known dangerous trends. This trend resulted in 7,000 deaths in just 2012 and 2013 alone.

Another more recent one is the salt and ice challenge.

For this challenge, viewers are told to get ice cubes and a bag, and some salt, then mix them and apply this to their skin. This concoction causes frostbite, and fast.

Most who participate in this trend end up with major scarring.

However, not all social media trends result in negative outcomes. A great example of a social media trend that had a major positive effect was the ice bucket challenge. This trend was intended to help raise money and awareness for ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis).

This trend alone raised $220 million worldwide.

The “I’m Yours” trend also had positive effects. This trend is most commonly seen on TikTok. For this trend, participants record themselves creatively singing lyrics from the song “I’m Yours” by Jason Marz. “I’ve been spending way too long checking my tongue in the mirror...but my breath fogged up the glass, so I drew a new face To learn more about various social media and I laughed.” trends and their effects, scan the QR code to The challenge is be directed to our site. to have the video viewed 10 or more times, or donate $100 to help stop animal cruelty to give animals a better chance at a new life.

Although there are a lot of negative trends that tend to have a fatal cost, there are some that help make the world a better place.

PAGE 63FEATURED STORY3ARROW3MAY 21, 2021

EXPLORING RAMADAN

MORE THAN FASTIN BROOKLYNN HATHCOCK DIGITAL EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

As the school community learns and understands each other more, there has been a better understanding of cultures.

This year, Utica has made accommodations for Muslim students and staff that are celebrating Ramadan.

"A reminder that we are in the month of Ramadan. For our Muslim students, that means that they cannot eat, drink or engage in other practices," principal Thomas Leitz said in an email sent out to all Utica staff. "This weekend, in a conversation with a former student who is Muslim, I learned that music was something that is largely avoided during the month of Ramadan. There are so many small things. If you have a student in your class, please have a conversation with them, ask them if there are ways we can be thoughtful of their experience. Those conversations will go a long way."

The email was the first step for Lietz.

"I’ve shared information with staff about some norms and challenges for Muslim students during Ramadan," Lietz said. "I shared this graphic which I think does a nice job and even discussed sensitivities to music and food that might be worth some conversations between staff and any of their students who are Muslim. Some kids might not care, others may, but that ask is a recognition and acknowledgment of respect… that’s huge."

Students, like sophomore Nadeen Rashed, are participating in Ramadan this year and have been for a long time. However, it is a tradition that many other students at Utica aren't familiar with.

"The true meaning of Ramadan to me and my family is to feel for the poor and to be more grateful for all the things we have been given by God," Rashed said. "In Ramadan, when we fast it's not just from food and drink, including water; it's also from being rude to people, smoking, listening to music, and backbiting or gossiping."

Ramadan is the month of cleansing--clearing out one's mind, body, and spirit. It is a journey to find one's way closer to God and to open Muslim minds to the world around them.

"Ramadan teaches you a lot of things such as patience, self-control, and how to be empathetic towards others who don't have the same things that you have," Rashed said. "You become more connected with your religion and with God during this month."

Many associate Ramadan with just losing weight for the month, but that isn't case at all. Fasting is a form of self-reflection to many and is a way to view the world differently.

"I wish others knew that Ramadan isn't something we do so that we could s lose weight; it's much more meaningful than that," Rashed said. "I wish people about Ramadan or even about Islam, because most of the time assumptions e people. I hope people now kn a time of reflection, peace, an once the sun sets and we all c it's honestly one of the most h moments of my life."

What many forget is tha of Ramadan, fasting isn't for it is only when the sun ris sun sets. Once it is the even to eat and drink for the nex comes up again. During thi ilies will hold big dinners an celebrate their family and "I love when Ramadan when we would go to the Mo pray together, and to socializ Muslim community during R tive because everyone sees ea to bond more as a communit According to Rashed, tha this important month.

"We talk about our stru piness," Rashed continued, " people would have a smile they would see you or when y someone you don't know at connect with them and they a very welcoming.”

While COVID impacted those struggles affected Ram harder to feel determined and month since families couldn For Rashed, her family overc virus and continued to celebr "The only thing I hate is th go to the Mosque to socialize ficult to be happy during this connect with each other wi prayers."

Not many people that atten so for Nadeen Rashed, this tim important to her to really com @uticaprincipal twitter post with her family and friends.

"I usually have fun stayi waiting until sunrise with family and sometimes friends. I also have fun at the en we have the celebration called Eid, which is to celebrate our month of fasting a parties, carnivals, and we all dress up in fancy new clothes. Ramadan is one of my year."

"The true meaning of Ramadan to me and my family is to feel for the poor and to be more grateful things we have been given by God." - NADEE

NG

starve ourselves or to didn't assume things end up hurting other now that Ramadan is nd happiness because come together to eat, happiest and thankful

at during the month 24 hours of the day; ses and up until the ning, one is allowed xt day until the sun is eating time, famnd come together to cultural traditions. comes around and osque for dinners, to ze," Rashed said. "The Ramadan is very acach other and we get ty." at’s not all there is to

uggles and our hap"and I just love how on their face when you would sit next to the Mosque you can are easy to talk to, it's

d everyone, many of madan, too. It made it d hopeful during this n't all come together. came this worldwide rate. hat this year we can't e. It's been more difs month, but we still ith live lectures and

nd Utica are Muslim, me of the year is very me together and bond

ing up at night and nd of Ramadan when and praying. We have y favorite times of the

l for all the EN RASHED

MAY 21, 20214ARROW4FEATURED STORY4PAGE 7

ISLAMIC

PRAY

SUNRISE

TO

SUNSET HOLY

NINTH MONTH MUSLIM

QURAN

RELIGION FIVEPILLARS MOHAMMEDAN

DESIGN & PHOTO BY BROOKLYNN HATHCOCK

PAGE 8 3FEATURE 3ARROW 3MAY 21, 2021

Out-of-state college opportunities

No limits for seniors planning their next steps following graduation

For senior Emma Wilson, exploring new options was a simple decision to make. Being able to explore new areas besides Michigan and getting out of her hometown was something With the 2020-2021 school year coming to an end, seniors have used everything they’ve she had no doubt about wanting to do. learned so far to apply and get accepted to colleges near and “I knew I wanted to explore new areas besides Michifar, some to their dream schools and others for simple opgan,” Williams said. “I don’t want to stay in one area, I want portunities. Utica’s 2021 seniors are ready for next the step, to see new places.” regardless of how far away it will be from home.

Many face restrictions with finding their match when Seniors like Danna Melendez decided that with dedicait comes to different campuses, as only some states have tion comes opportunity, and no opportunity should be neuniversities with certain majors, and this was the case with glected.

Wilson.

“I made the decision to move away from Michigan to “I am excited to start somewhat of a new life at college,” San Pedro, Belize, because I was born in Belize and I lived Wilson said. “I am being offered five-year architecture prothere for most of my life until I made the decision to move gram at Ball State instead of the four-year plus two-year to America for high school,” Melendez said. “I always knew Masters.”

I wanted to come back to my home country and saw that With students facing the uncertain risk of being alone coming to Belize for college would be the perfect chance. It in their new college experience, many choose to not go far was hard moving away but I knew that bigger opportunities or live on campus for this exact reason. would come my way and I couldn’t miss that chance.”

“One of my close friends I’ve known since elementary Thinking for the future also involves considering career school is going to Ball State as well so that is making the options, and Melendez is excited for any and all career, permove more comfortable,” Wilson said. sonal, and academic opportunities that can come with go For others, like Serenity Littrell, going out of state ing back to her home country for college. With the decision brings positivity and unity with friends. Littrell, who will be strongly motivated by missing family, she knew what she attending University of Alabama describes the psychology had to do to better her life. program as attractive as well as the opportunities one can “I am studying business here and real estate and since San find in a sorority.

Pedro is an island, I would fall in love with doing my school “I applied all over to keep my options open,” Littrell and eventual job here, especially with real estate in selling Senior Serenity Littrell poses with a University of Alabama banner. serenity said, “I stayed with some friends at Alabama and fell in love beach houses,” Melendez said. “I am going to Galen Univer- littrell photo with all the people there and the campus.” sity and it is full of cultural people from all around the world, With the extenuating circumstances COVID has I’m going to get to meet so many people with different backgrounds and learn more about caused, Utica’s seniors are proud of all they have been able to accomplish, especially in being their cultures, as well.” accepted to and attending the universities they admire.

OLIVER GAMEZ

COPY EDITOR

Students prepare for another fishing season Fishing is a very good bonding experience, especially for all family members from fathers and sons, to mothers and daugh As spring starts and the ice melts on the rivers and lakes, ters. It’s a tradition that gets passed down from generation to many fishermen want to generation to learn from each get onto the lakes to go other. fishing. Many students

“I enjoy being out on the fish at Utica, catching water and being with my family,” everything from bass to junior Chloe Larson said, “I also sturgeon. Many catch enjoy fishing but I just cant get the and release, but some fish off the hook, I am too scared keep and eat their fish. to touch the fish.”

“Fishing is a big time

Even though some people hobby for me,” senior do not eat the fish they will still Ryan Whaley said. “It rereturn the fish to the water withally helps me relax, even out harm. The only part that kind when I don’t catch anyof hurts a fish is the hook, but thing it’s nice to be out fishermen say the fish don’t feel on the water and enjoyany pain in their mouths where ing the outdoors.” the hook is set.

Fishing can have its

There are many places to good and bad days, but fish in our area. The Great Lakes, most fisherman just enand especially its rivers, are popjoy sitting on the dock or ular areas. The Detroit River is on their boat with a line home to many walleye fishermen, out. while Lake St. Clair is home to “Even though we Senior Dillion Wagner holds a sturgeon that he caught in Lake St. many bass fishermen. don’t eat the fish we Claire while walleye fishing. dillon wagner courtesy photo

Competitions are held in catch, releasing them is these lakes and get very crowded. just as satisfying as eating them,” senior Justin Lees said, “Fish- “The lakes get so busy sometimes that your boat would be ing is also a good way to connect with family or friends even if touching the boat next to you.” Wagner said, “Fishing is a very you are not good at it.” competitive sport, more competitive than most people realize.”

RAYMOND ALTMANN

MANAGING EDITOR

Senior Raymond Altmann (middle) and his friend celebrate after a day of fishing. They both ended up catching six large walleye each. raymond almann courtesy photo

PAGE 94SPORTS4ARROW4MAY 21, 2021

SPORTS ATHLETES, COACHES, FANS, AND MORE

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The top 8 MHSAA State Championship qualifiers are announced. kyle walsh courtesy photo

Wrestler Kyle Walsh competes at state level SHEA HATHCOCK

REPORTER

This entire year has been very unique for every single athlete around the world. The Coronavirus and everything that comes with it has stopped many seasons, postponed most seasons, and for the very lucky ones, some athlete’s seasons were not once canceled, postponed, or even affected.

But senior Kyle Walsh was one of the unlucky ones. His last high school wrestling season has had a few bumps in the road, especially by the end of the season while he was trying to prepare for the MHSAA State Championship competition.

A week before the MHSAA State Championship meet, Kyle Walsh was quarantined. This meant he could not participate during practice and could not even see the team for the week.

Because of this, it postponed his training for the special competition. But he pushed through quarantine and never gave up or lost hope with the idea of placing at the state championship.

Because of his strong mindset, not only did Walsh compete, but he also placed fifth in the state, despite not being able to practice beforehand.

“I was very proud of Kyle when he qualified for states,” wrestling coach Clinton Davis said. “He has worked very hard to become the wrestler he is this season. He only started wrestling as a freshman, a lot of wrestlers that make it to state meets have experience from youth programs. He is a great example of how dedication and work ethic can help you achieve goals that you set for yourself.”

Kyle Walsh is a very strong-minded athlete who would never think of giving up, especially when a few little bumps come into the road.

When his parents, friends, and teammates found out that Kyle Walsh placed fifth in the state, none of them were even a little surprised. Everyone knows how hard Walsh has worked every single day during practice, and outside of school for this moment. He never once had an off day that month.

“Kyle is a very dedicated athlete. When he has his mind set on something, he is getting what he wants with no questions asked,” senior Matthew Gaereminick said. “When I heard he placed fifth in the state, I was very happy for him.

He deserves every single ounce of all those wins because of how hard he worked everyday throughout the season.”

“I have worked so hard and put so many hours into this sport,” Walsh said, “When I qualified for states I was proud, and I felt like all of my hard work was worth it. I accomplished my dream of being a qualifier. And when I got above fifth place, it was a dream come true.”

Boys track team goes undefeated, Nicoletti shatters three records JONATHAN CUNNINGHAM

SPORTS EDITOR

The first track & field meet of the season was a resounding success for the boys, with senior Carson Nicoletti breaking the school record for yjr 2 mile run with an astounding time of 9 minutes and 34 seconds.

Later in the season, Nicoletti managed to bring that time all the way down to 9 minutes and 10.32 seconds. He also managed to break records in two other events.

“The team performed fantastically considering we haven’t ran track since pre-pandemic,” Nicoletti said. “Everyone performed great and it was a full team effort.”

Coach Megan Berry was impressed by the way the team persevered through the tough times of the past year.

“I wanted to give these kids who have been at home and isolated for so long a chance to socialize, exercise, and be a part of a team,” Berry said. “I came into this season with no expectations and a completely new roster and staff and to be undefeated is nothing short of amazing.”

Nicoletti isn’t the only athlete challenging school records, with sophomore Tommie Boyd very close to breaking the school record in long jump in his

first meet, and continued success the rest of the season.

Boyd is looking to break the record some time in his career at Utica and looks forward to what the next few years have in store for himself and the team.

“I am very close to breaking [the record)] and hope to very soon,” Boyd said. “Overall, our team is very good and there’s many great things about each and every one of my teammates.”

Nicoletti agreed, and is thankful for his team.

“I wouldn’t have been able to do any of this without my teammates pushing me to be better every day. It was a lot of fun, and I wouldn’t have been able to do it without them,” Nicoletti said. “It felt amazing to finally be back, [we] still need to shed off some rust, but having a season is a blessing. The team performed fantastic considering we haven’t had any sort of competition since pre-pandemic.”

Coach Berry had a lot of fun with this team and said that she’s never been so intertwined with a team.

“If anything good has come out of the pandemic, it’s that these kids appreciate every day that they can come to practice,” Berry said. “I’ve never enjoyed a team more. I just love working with this team everyday, no matter what our record is, good or bad.”

Senior Carson Nicoletti stretches the finish line of the 3200m with a school record time of 9:34, beating the previous record by 2 seconds. megan berry courtesy photo

PAGE 103VIEWPOINTS3ARROW3MAY 21, 2021

O N LI N E

VIEWPOINTS STUDENT VOICES AND OPINIONS

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STAFF EDITORIAL

COVID Protocols. Numerous changes help students stay safe, reduce anxiety while in the building School has been canceled, postponed, has been mak- to make sure they aren’t sick and aren’t experiencing any ing countless accommodations- all for COVID. There has of the COVID related symptoms- students aren’t giving been test runs, trial and errors, but now- Utica believes trust to their peers that they actually take the time out of that we are at the safest point that we have been in since their morning to do all of this.

March of last year.

Utica had to be shut down and sent their students and Do students agree with this, agreeing that we are really staff home for a while due to the fact that there was so at out safest point? many positive cases for COVID and so many students that Many students can argue that they think Utica isn’t got sent home for second hand tracing. Many think that keeping their students safe in school and they feel that we are on the track for this to happen again before the year we should be at home and still ends. doing school remotely, not Others think that this has no chance in-person. of happening, yes- some students did It is thought that being in test positive since we have all returned school creates a higher risk for and some students got sent home families at home, for the stu- DO YOU FEEL SAFE from second hand tracing, but what dents and staff, and being in ATTENDING SCHOOL many students do not realize is that so school is just a waste of time WITH THE COVID many staff and students got vaccinated because we are all on our lapover the break and are currently being tops all day, which is the same PROTOCOLS IN PLACE? vaccinated for COVID-19. as being at home.

Being vaccinated helps so much in Other students, however, the school because it lowers the spread YES NO think the complete opposite. of COVID, lowers the numbers of stuStudents say that being in school is so much better for dents testing positive, and lowers the numbers of students them, mentally and educationally. getting sent home to quarantine.

Now that we have been in school and are able to do our Many seniors are worried that they will have to be quarschool in the classrooms with our other peers and teach- antined for their last weeks of school and will be unable to ers, we are more engaged and trying harder on work. attend graduation, prom, and any other senior events. So Instead of staying in bed and falling asleep between lec- far, the cases have stayed very low in Utica and the plans tures, we are sitting at a desk with a teacher in front of us for graduation and prom are still in place. giving the lesson. Students can be able to ask the question Utica will continue to try and keep their students and right away and have a discussion with teachers, instead of staff as safe as possible during the hard times, but particistaying on mute at home and not paying attention to any pation needs to be met on both sides. of the work the teacher is giving to the class.

Even if students think that the protocols are safe Students feel that these COVID protocols aren’t up to enough, they still need to be responsible for themselves par, they think that students having the self-responsibility and their peers by following all protocols before walking of taking their temperature before school, taking the time into the school.

EDITORIAL BOARD VOTE

8

1

BROOKLYNN HATHCOCK ILLUSTRATION

PERSPECTIVES

Which Covid-19 protocol makes you feel the safest?

“Wearing masks and wiping things down is the safest, since social distancing isn’t really working since no one is doing it. Masks and wiping things down helps stop the spread.”

“Masks make me feel the safest out of all the protocols. It’s scientifically proven that masks will protect you from COVID-19.”

“I think that masks are the safest protocol that have been implemented because of how they protect us.”

“Wearing a mask is probably the safest. It helps prevent the spread of germs coming out and going in.

Also, washing your hands and not touching your face is important.”

“Wearing a mask is the ultimate precaution. We haven’t had any community spread in school, and this helps with preventing the spread of other viruses, like the flu.”

Alaina Wisswell

Ashlynn Gazaway

Justin LaBarge

Regina Shikwana

Tom Lietz

SOPHOMORE

JUNIOR

SENIOR

TEACHER

PRINCIPAL

MAY 21, 2021 4 ARROW 4 VIEWPOINT 4 PAGE 11

OPINION MACKENZIE OLMSTEAD, PRINT EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Enough. It’s time to cancel the paparazzi.

With all eyes on anyone with any sort of fame status, technology, and Kardashians, being a paparazzi has become a career. A somewhat recent documentary came out partially surrounding this topic. The film follows legendary pop star Britney Spears’ conservatorship case, as well as what led her to getting it. Much of the film includes clips from none other than real paparazzi and even an interview from one. Some clips show the ever-so-famous moment in 2007 when Spears shaved her iconic, blonde hair right to her scalp. This serious moment in her life, which was very clearly the product of crippling mental health and a breakdown, was turned into gossip and a joke. Talk show hosts were cracking jokes, magazines had it plastered on all the covers, it was everywhere. However, no one chose to be understanding and look deeper into what was really going on, and what led her to this point.

The documentary shows very well how this was in large part due to the constant paparazzi stalking her. In the beginning of her career, Spears was the target of poor, inappropriate journalism that lasted a long time, and she was seemingly handling it better than I can say I would’ve. She was asked morally wrong questions, had touchy things and comments said to her and faced tough situations about personal matters, and it was all on display for everyone to see.

And the paparazzi were the ones holding the magnifying glass on her. Spears has had many negative run ins with paparazzi, even damaging the vehicle of one, but it was all because she had had enough. Enough of being chased, being spoken to like she was dirt, being blinded by lights, and chased down streets or into buildings.

But Spears is just one example. It’s no secret that celebrities have immense privilege, but privilege does not mean we can just write off all the negatives and gaslight celebrity struggles. Many celebrities have spoken out about how having constant paparazzi and press on their case is not a matter to take lightly. It’s more than just a testament to

fame. It effects their privacy, their mental health, their safety, and even their sanity.

This is no way to live. An average person who does not experience having constant paparazzi could never know the struggle of hardly being able to even have a single secret without an article being released about it, and millions of people giving their opinion. Fame seems to reach a point of permission and some basic human qualities of life such as privacy and feeling safe, completely being unwarranted, and the world doesn’t care. Nobody asks if it’s okay for them to make a quick tweet judging someone like Justin Bieber’s body or personal struggles or uninvited issues; they just do it. Creating articles about drama going on in these people’s lives isn’t going to go away anytime soon; however, it seems inhumane for paparazzi to be al-

Nobody asks if it’s be okay for them to make a quick tweet judging someone like Justin Bieber’s body or personal struggles or uninvited issues; they just do it. lowed to chase people down the street, bombarding them with blinding lights and personal questions, and making extreme amounts of money off of just one photo.

Most celebrity drama and mental issues are all rooted at paparazzi stalking celebrities, going so far as to trample over people’s friends and fans, just so they can keep up enough to get a photo. They show up at their family members’ outings, such as the ballet class of a young North West (daughter of Kanye West and Kim Kardashian), and cause dangerous people to find their homes, or locations, like when Kim Kardashian was robbed at gunpoint in Paris. Just because they have part of their life put on display, doesn’t mean it all should be.

READER RESPONSE

Response to ‘The show must go on’ It’s such a bummer that the theater kids didn’t get to do a longer production this year. They always put their all into their performances and it’s sad that they didn’t have an audience this year.

I always try to go to see their shows to support them, but last year’s spring show and this year’s show unfortunately had to be done a little differently. I hope next year the theater department will be able to have a show with an audience because it’s so important to a lot of kids!

Brooke Budd, Senior

Response to ‘City of Utica hosts puppy parade’

UHS Arrow Newspaper

Contact information

Arrow Utica High School 47255 Shelby Road Utica, MI 48317 phone: 586.797.2305 fax: 586.797.2201 e-mail: uticapublications@gmail.com website: uhsarrow.org

Staff policy

Arrow is published monthly by the newspaper class of Utica High School and is funded by advertising. Our main purpose is to (1) inform the students, faculty and community of school-related news; (2) broaden the range of thinking of staff members and readers; (3) provide a forum for readers; (4) train the students in the functions of the press in a democratic society; and (5) provide entertaining features of interest to the students.

All editorials without a byline reflect at least two-thirds opinion of the Arrow staff but are not necessarily the opinion of the administration.

Letters to the Editor are welcomed and must be signed; however, names will be withheld for valid reasons.

Letters may be dropped off in room 205, and electronic submissions will be verified. All contributions are subject for restrictions of libel, defamation, slander and obscenity. Arrow staff reserves the right to edit letters without changing the meaning, and also reserves the right to reject letters for reasons of limited space, untimely material, or unbalanced coverage.

Arrow is a member of the Columbia Scholastic Press Association, Quill and Scroll, National Scholastic Press Association, Michigan Interscholastic Press Association and the Student Press Law Center. Some photos courtesy of American Society of News Editors/Tribune News Service. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, print copies are distributed digitally,

@UHSArrow

UHS Arrow Newspaper @UHSArrow 2021 Prom Court

Editor-In-Chief Mackenzie Olmstead Digital Editor-In-Chief

Brooklynn Hathcock Managing Editor

Raymond Altmann Copy Editors Oliver Gamez Ethan Smale

Social Media Editors Aspen Halbhuber Simmi Singh

Sports Editor Jonathan Cunningham

Reporters Kai Dawkins Kaitlyn Hanna Shea Hathcock Joshua Rhodes Alex Schmidt Abby Williams

Business Manager Ethan Smale Editor Grace Leonardi

Adviser Stacy Smale

Thanks for the coverage of the Utica Puppy Parade. Great job!

Gus Calandrino, Utica City Mayor

@UticaArrow

@UHSArrow

@uhs_arrow

Cover by Mackenzie Olmstead Photo by Brooklynn Hathcock, Featuring senior Andrew Heck

PAGE 123SPOTLIGHT3ARROW3MAY 21, 2021

SPOTLIGHT

WHO SHOULD BE IN THE SPOTLIGHT NEXT? TWEET YOUR IDEAS @UHSARROW

HIGHLIGHTING UNIQUE TALENTS & ACCOMPLISHMENTS

RENEE CILLUFFO,

FUTURE INFLUENCER

BROOKLYNN HATHCOCK

DIGITAL EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Dreams can go any direction when you’re in high school. Currently, many aspire to be an influencer on social media, and senor Renee Cilluffo is already on her way. The Arrow’s in-depth interview reveals what it takes to make it.

Variety of pursuits: “Creativity has been with me for as long as I could remember. It has aided me in creative and non-creative pursuits,” senior Renee Cilluffo said. “Creating stop motion films, taking calculus to a philosophical level, seeing improvements that could be made to an already impressive product or website, making my own handbags, wall decor, clothes, etc. instead of buying things.”

Social media: “Photography is like a making a movie with the stories, messages, angles, outfits, and various other choices to produce a work. But it does so more concisely, taking a shorter amount of time to produce and a shorter amount of time for the audience to take it in, making it easily widespread,” Cilluffo said. “There’s a stigma around social media inviting opportunities of harassment, etc. But I think social media can be a good thing, connecting people from anywhere and raising awareness to brands and issues. It can bring comfort and confidence knowing you’re not alone in thoughts or situations. It only becomes harmful based on how we react: taking comments or stats too seriously.”

Personality: “As for outgoing, I would say: yes, it has been consistent. I’m unconventional in every way, partly because of my creativity, so I’m not concerned too much with how others view my differences, which gives me the boldness to take risks, question status quo, and be myself,” Cilluffo said. “I am more comfortable in front of strangers rather than familiar peers, because I feel the weight of expectations.”

Fashion: “Fashion was a consistent passion throughout my life. I don’t have a particular genre,

Drawing by Renee Cilluffo

though there are, every so often, phases of interest, be it era or persona, that I try to subtly channel,” Cilluffo said. “There’s a sense of confidence in wearing something that required effort, whether it’s wearing something in their unintended manner, sewing and designing something to wear, or challenging myself to go beyond my own closet in making things that are old, ugly, or unfitting fashionable,” Early lesson: “I wanted to spark fashion inspiration in others. In seventh grade I took pictures of outfits I laid on the ground, but that didn’t give the full effect on the fitting and it didn’t attract attention because clothes are inanimate; it’s human nature to be attracted to art involving humans. So, I took pictures of myself in them, and soon learned how angles/ poses, lighting, venues, etc. could maximize how an outfit is seen. Because of the technicality and the multitude of shots leading the ideal requires a high level of patience and passion, I am oftentimes the one taking and modeling the photo. Editing is a whole different story from taking a photo that is enjoyable also, but stressful.”

Sponsorships: “I started getting Instagram sponsorship offers on DM, which is different from typical commercial modeling: they give me an idea for captions and photos, but I still have the free range in the photos and get to take them. Then, they decide whether they’re approved and pay me. The biggest ones were Coca Cola and Aveeno, but I’ve worked with certain small companies where they send me stuff and discounts. Sometimes I’ll get an ambassador code that gives me more discounts based on how many use the code. I limit how many I accept because I don’t want my page to be like a catalog of unsolicited ads others may not care about. I don’t want to distract from the intention of my page: fashion. I do hope to continue this as a side hustle because it gives me self-confidence and creative inspiration when I need it. It also opened me to people across states and continents that have similar interests. Sometimes I’ll recognize someone from Instagram or vice-versa at an event far from my home. It gives me a platform to vent or share differing viewpoints.”