March 20 20204Volume 904Issue 5
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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ENTERTAINMENT SHOWCASE
Diverse talents hit the stage. Page 4
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PAGE 2 3TABLE OF CONTENTS 3ARROW 3MARCH 20, 2020
CONTENTS 3
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THOMAS LIETZ PHOTO
FREE LUNCH FOR STUDENTSfood service staff work Principal Thomas Lietz and the eals for families during the closure to prepare m HISTORY OF HIGH SCHOOL and “secrets” about Check out some unknown facts Utica High’s history 19 CHAOS FEATURED COVERAGE: COVID-pa cting the Understand how COVID-19 is im community close to home S BATTLE BETWEEN THE COOKIEok ies and compares Our staff taste tests Girl Scout co them to an off-brand BATTLING FOR MAC BLUE title, coach Davis The wrestling team wins MAC Blue wins a prestigious award
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MARCH 20, 20204ARROW4NEWS4PAGE 3
NEWS
FINDING FOOD DURING QUARANTINE CHECK OUT ALL LOCATIONS FOR FAMILIES TO GET MEALS
WHAT’S HAPPENING
Sanitizer stations installed throughout school “I came up with the idea [of sanitizing stations] because my club volleyball coach didn’t want us getting Germs, viruses, and different kinds of bacteria face sick, and because I started volunteering at Henry Ford the crowded halls of a typical high school day. Now, there hospital Macomb last spring and they have them literally are hand sanitizing stations to maximize the every five feet,” Sobetski said. “I just realized cleanliness in the halls. that there weren’t sanitizer at school, espe At the beginning of March, hand sanicially in the cafeteria and the gym where tizing stations were placed for any students people need them. I had to do my research or staff members who would like to have a on different models and I had to look into quick and easy way to help rid the school of scent-free sanitizer because there are several germs and prevent any sickness or viruses. staff members that are sensitive, but a lot of “The sanitizing stations have to be inthe ordering went through Lietz.” stalled consistent with ADA guidelines for Utica was also the first school in the accessibility,” principal Thomas Lietz said. district to get the sanitizing stations in“Mr. Kranzo and I walked the building to stalled. determine which locations made the most “I think it’s really cool that Utica was sense for them. Outside of major gatherings the first to get [the sanitizing stations],” Sospaces and bathrooms were priorities, but we Senior Raeleen Sobetski uses a betski said. “It certainly wasn’t my intention hand sanitizer near the counalso tried to spread them out so they were ac- seling office. THOMAS LIETZ PHOTO to get them weeks before a global pandemic, cessible.” but sometimes things kind of just work out At the end of the 2019-2020 school year, senior like that.” Raeleen Sobetski approached Lietz about placing sani- With the sanitizing stations set in place for the 2020tizing stations throughout the halls. It took until the 2020 2021 school year, it is possible that some will feel safer school year to make it happen. when walking the halls. MACKENZIE OLMSTEAD
EDITOR
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Every school is full of staff willing to do the absolute most for any student. Among the many at Utica, special education teacher Jeanette Mikula was voted by her colleagues as being the best. “I think I am so lucky to be in the presence of greatness every single day. She works so hard to help her students and co-workers and we are so grateful to have her,” teacher Jaclyn Moore said. “She absolutely deserves this award and is the best co-teacher I could ever ask for.” After the staff at Utica nominated her as Teacher of the Year, Mikula went on to compete against the teachers who won the same award in the other three schools within the district. Eventually, Mikula was chosen as the Utica Community Schools High School Teacher of the Year. “We are really thrilled to nominate Ms. Mikula, who is honestly amazing. I know she impacts a smaller group of students with being a special education teacher, but if you have ever had an interaction with her, she’s one of the most student-centered people I have ever met,” principal Thomas Lietz said. “She gives up her time frequently for her students. We’re really happy to recognize her work with special education because they can be overlooked despite the important things they do for students.” Even though her colleagues were the ones to nominate Mikula for the award, her students recognize her patience as being a key quality. “She’s a great teacher all-around. If anyone ever needed a helping hand then she would definitely give it. She will also welcome anyone with open arms,” senior Chelsea Rakes said. “Her patience is her best quality in my opinion. She’s kind and loving to whoever she talks to and deserves every reward that she gets. [Mikula] always pushed me to be the best I can be all three years at Utica, and I will always be grateful for that.”
TEACHER OF THE YEAR
Teacher Jeanette Mikula displays her award. THOMAS LIETZ PHOTO
HALEY GROOMS
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Wearing protective face covering, principal Thomas Lietz helps distribute food to students and families. THOMAS LIETZ PHOTO
UCS provides food for families in time of need NUR AWKAL
EDITOR
As COVID-19 spread throughout Michigan, and multiple districts shut down their buildings, the fear of hunger became prevalent for some. Not only are schools a source of education, but for the students who rely on the food provided by school, it many questions arose over the well-being of these students, as well as their families. In order to combat this crisis, Utica Community Schools offers meals to all children and teens eighteen years old and under on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. In addition to this, regardless if one is a UCS student or not, or if one qualifies for free or reduced lunch or not, these people are still able to pickup meals free of charge. The food is distributed free of charge at fourteen different public school locations through the community. In addition, the food distribution workers are providing enough meals to last three days. This is to combat frequent trips. Children do not have to be present for parents to go get the meals. “There are good things that are happening,” principal Thomas Lietz said. “We just have to remember to keep doing those good things.” Furthermore, the meals that are distributed will be wholesome and healthy meals, according to Lietz. They will be very well put together so the people that will be picking up these meals can rely on a nice meal that will satisfy them and their families in between each pickup. The staff does have a few minimal compliances it asks of those who will be coming to pick up these meals. They are asking, to minimize the social exposure, that families and their children either drive or walk up to the outdoor distribution site and collect the breakfast, as well as the lunches. Afterward, meals should be taken home to ensure safety for all. The participating schools will begin distributing food between the time frame of 11 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. and will be ran for about an hour or two depending on the location. Meals will also be sent out and delivered by UCS food trucks at many different locations. With all of this progress being made, the food service staff is requesting for volunteers. To sign up there is a community link online. To find this link, look up “UCS meal preparation for quarantine volunteers.” In addition, it is very simple process for new volunteers. As it only asks for name, number, and an e-mail address. If some may be concerned about safety, there is no need to worry. Workers have taken this into consideration and only assigned volunteers and food service staff can be on site during the designated distribution hours.
PAGE 4 3FEATURE 3ARROW 3MARCH 20, 2020
Students showcase talents on stage PARKER HOPKINS
DIGITAL EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Senior Dez LaCourse walks onstage, holding a guitar. Bright lights surround him, helping him to stand out against the black curtain he walks in front of. Taking a seat in front of a hundred people, he begins to strum his guitar and sing. Once he finishes and the applause dies down, junior emcees Annie Droelle and Caroline McDade walk onstage to continue the Talent Show. On Mar. 6, the annual Talent Show was held for students and staff to show off their special talents for the whole school. The theme for this year’s show was ‘Show Us What U Got!’ Auditions were held on Mar. 2, and gave students a chance to get a feel for the actual show and performances. Auditions were judged by the International Thespian Society Executive Board members, who also organized the talent show. Auditioning is a process that many describe as anxiety-inducing, so the student judges tried to make it as unstressful as possible for those auditioning. Nugent and the other members of the ITS board gave all of the auditioners time and space to prepare and practice beforehand, while others auditioned. “The audition process was very loose and laid back, very comforting,” LaCourse said. “Since peers were judging it, you had that sense of just someone watching you in a smaller audience before the bigger audience. It didn’t feel as pressurized as it could have been in that type of a situation.” Droelle and McDade came out between each performance to introduce the next act and keep the audience energized. The two, friends for years, wrote their own script, which saw Droelle acting as a mentor to McDade. “We went to the [auditorium] after theatre, and we were fooling around, and we were told we had a good energy and we were asked to do it,” Droelle said. “We had a list of all the acts and we thought of witty jokes that went along with each one. We wanted to really engage with the audience.” Sophomore Amanda Walters sang and played ukulele, to a song she wrote herself. The song, titled “Why I Was Made,” was inspired by growth. Walters has been playing ukulele for three years, and wants to write more music in the future. “I couldn’t find anything that fit my voice, so writing my own song seemed like the best idea. I have written a song in a long time, so I tried and I ended up figuring out how to do it. It’s really hard,” Walters said. “[Auditioning] wasn’t necessarily my first idea. I thought it was really cool, but I don’t like singing in front of people, so it was a hard decision. I want to get better at performing in front of people, so it was a good way to practice and do something fun.” Though many people sign up for the talent show to showcase their singing, there were also comedy and dance acts this year. Senior Regina Araujo-Pedroza danced with her brother to “El Son de la Negra,” which tells the story of two separated lovers. “It’s a traditional Mexican dancing. The songs and dance each tell a different story. Every state of Mexico has a different dance and a different story to go with it,” Araujo-Pedroza said. “It’s fun to share my culture with other people who probably haven’t seen that type of dance before.” Senior Gianna Bratke performed a comedy routine about her car for the talent show. This was her first year performing in the show, though she emceed last year. “My friends, Alyssa and Gabi, encouraged me to audition for the talent show,” Bratke said. “I figured I’d do comedy since it’s all I really have going for me at this point. I’m telling jokes about my car, since it’s old, and people constantly compliment me on it.” Bratke’s routine was about her car, a 1993 Dodge Shadow, which she calls refers to as “Slim Shady.” She made jokes about the awkwardness of being complimented on her car, especially by people she doesn’t know. Bratke also talked about how certain cars, like hers, are unique and “peppy.” “I feel like older cars have personality,” Bratke said during her performance. “Slim Shady doesn’t like highways, he definitely doesn’t like long walks on the beach, he’s very picky about his gas, and he definitely doesn’t like to be stopped.” This year’s talent show brought out the biggest turnout in the last few years, and helped to raise money for the theatre department.
Senior Dez LaCourse practices the song he sang at the Talent Show, “Astronaut” by the band Simple Plan, before auditions on Mar. 2. “I listen to a lot of indie/folk music, and the problem with that is they have really good guitar skills and very mediocre voices, and I have the opposite problem, so I couldn’t do any of those songs,” LaCourse said. “I found a rock song that has very simple guitar and much better vocals to work with.” PARKER HOPKINS PHOTO
Senior Regina Araujo-Pedroza and her brother, Niko, performed a traditional Mexican dance to “El Son de la Negra”. PARKER HOPKINS PHOTO
Left: Senior Gabriela Hotaj sang “M” by Zanfina Ismaili, an Albanian song. Right: Sophomore Beatrice Salazar performed an improvisational dance to “When the Party’s Over” by Billie Eilish. PARKER HOPKINS PHOTOS
Juniors Caroline McDade and Annie Droelle were the emcees for the show. The duo also joined senior Joshua Essemacher for his performance of “Tequila” by The Champs. This was Essemacher’s third and final year participating in the Talent Show. HALEY GROOMS PHOTO
MARCH 20, 20204ARROW4FEATURE4PAGE 5
FEATURE INTERESTING STUFF
Secrets of 1
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CHARLES BORUS
EDITOR
Every day, students walk into school with an eagerness to learn, and leave with the sense relief that another day is over. Since 1860, over one million students have come and gone through both the Utica Union School and Utica High School--all without considering the history behind the school. Utica Community Schools began its history in around 1818 with multiple one-room schoolhouses around in the area around Utica. As the population grew with time, the school board called for a new school that could better accommodate the amount of students. Founded in 1860, the Utica Union School, a school constructed in response to the population growth at a price of only $8,000. The original building sat on the corner of Hahn Street and Brownell Street in Utica. During the World War I era, Utica Union School was far less populated than the present day high school. The school functioned with one principal and four teachers, a starch contrast to the over one thousand-strong student population of today. In 1929, the school was moved to a brand-new building and the Utica Union School was renamed to Utica High School. With a growing population in the area, the school needed yet another building change. In 1955, the current-day Utica High School opened on Shelby Road and the old Utica High School was renamed as its present-day name: Eppler Junior High School. The new high school building cost a total of $1,314,658.93 to build, opening on Oct. 9, 1955 and the dedicated by Henry Gage, the master of ceremonies for the dedication ceremony. The present-day building has been expanded over the years to accommodate the ever-growing student population. The school changed with the times, adapting to new education standards and the needs of students.
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1. MICHIGANHISTORY.LEADR.MSU.EDU 2. TMP-ARCHITECTURE.COM PHOTO 3. UTICA COMMUNITY HIGH SCHOOL ARIEL RENDERING 4. HISTORICAL DOCUMENT CICRA 1990, 5. MICHIGANHISTORY.LEADR.MSU.EDU 6. CANDGNEWS.COM 7. UTICAHIGH.UTICAK12.ORG
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“I remember when I was assigned as principal of Utica High, I tried to find all of the pictures that we have stored away, some dating back to pre-World War II,” current Principal Thomas Lietz said. “I’m not sure students fully realize that this institution has been around since the 1800s and the impact this school has had on the community.” Utica High School was the first high school in Utica Community Schools when the district expanded. “The fact that we go back so far in history is fascinating to think about.” Lietz said. “I’ve always said that we put the ‘U’ in UCS, despite our city being the smallest municipality that UCS serves.” Evidence of Utica’s history is visible in numerous areas around the school. The trophy cabinets near the auditorium and near the cafeteria stand as a testament of the sports and clubs that have left their mark on the school. The sports hall of fame honors and commemorates athletes who have demonstrated true athleticism for their school and coaches who have made a valuable impact. However, it wouldn’t be right for a story about a school to not address the teachers who have taught the children of Utica for many generations. The person regarded as the first teacher in the Utica School District was a man named Ada Adsell. He was paid only ten dollars for his labors and it was reported that he had to “study to keep in advance of his pupils.” However, there is no record to date of where he taught this historical class that pioneered the start of education in Utica. Since 1818, education in Utica has changed significantly. The education system became more organized, and more students have come through the doors of Utica High School, all eager to learn. While we often overshadow the history behind the school we attend, these events have carved the path that led the school to where it is now. Regardless, while the buildings have changed, there still remains one common thread: to educate and learn.
‘Hunters’ serves a reminder of the past PARKER HOPKINS
DIGITAL EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
On Feb. 21, 2020, Amazon Studios introduced the new show “Hunters.” Warning: this article will contain spoilers for season one. The show follows Jonah Heidelbaum (Logan Lerman), a young Jewish man who lives in Brooklyn in 1977. Following the death of his grandmother, Jonah meets Meyer Offerman (Al Pacino), who is an old friend of Ruth’s, and the man who saved her life during the Holocaust. Desperate for revenge for his grandmother’s death, Jonah hunts down her murderer, one of many Nazis recruited to America following World War II. After a near death experience, Meyer takes Jonah to meet the Hunters, a group of people who work together to hunt down the Nazis secretly living in America. One of the show’s executive producers is Jordan Peele, known for the films “Get Out” and “Us”. It makes sense that Peele would fund this show, as “Get Out” centers on race, and the difficulties people face based on their culture and background. “Hunters” centers around many of the same themes, in addition to family, history, and guilt. The show’s script was very well-written and thought-out. It manages to combine topics that are incredibly serious with comedy in order to make a show that keeps the audience interested and on the edge of their seat. The writers included both predictable and unpredictable twists in the plot. However, predictable doesn’t mean bad. Most of the plot-twists that I saw coming were still brilliantly crafted to add more to the show as a whole. A good plot twist isn’t meant to completely shock viewers, it’s meant to show that things aren’t always as they seem, and to give viewers the satisfaction of figuring it our beforehand. The script makes frequent use of flashbacks throughout the episodes. While there are many shows that use this technique, a lot of them don’t use it as well as they could. That isn’t the case for “Hunters.” Due to the numerous references to the Holocaust and histories of each character, the flashbacks work wonderfully to give an idea of what was done to the people put in concentration camps. The show allows viewers who aren’t familiar with Jewish culture to learn more about their traditions and practices. Most notably, there is a scene that shows a wedding between two characters, full of culture and history. The scene also showcases the difficulty in moving on from the past and from those lost during trying times. Overall, “Hunters” is a magnificent show, and came at a very pivotal time for America. Many messages can be taken away from this show, and it serves as a reminder of the past.
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Community reacts to t HALEY GROOMS
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
In the time of social distancing and uncertainty, people are trying to make sense of the and people are losing their lives over a virus that is changing the world. On Mar. 23, Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed an executive order whic the best of their ability. Necessary workers such as health care providers, first responders in operation under the order. This follows after Whitmer declared a state of emergenc confirmed in Michigan. A SHIFT AT THE HOSPITAL Tara Moore-Lehman, an ER Technician at Ascension St. John Hospital in Detroit, w ployees who screened potential COVID-19 patients. She prepares for long shifts in a environment while having to be extra careful in every precaution against COVID-19. “My shift in the beginning of all this was chaos, We lost a lot of people the first week th shut down schools. And we were still trying to figure out our policies and guidelines and but at the same time, we had to help these people who were dying as well and we had t Work was stressful, tense and very anxious for all staff working in the ER. Guidelines a were changing every other hour every day,” Moore-Lehman said. “It was like having a con tal check off list before going into a patient’s room or even having a patient walk into the we could walk into a patient’s room without worrying if we were going to contract som spread [the virus]. The ER usually has a high anxiety level as it is, but this is a whole diffe anxiety and fear because we could easily have been exposed or had it and could pass it o members and friends which as a healthcare employee, we never want. Besides the work environment changing, her daily uniforms have evolved into layers o gear, as well. “My daily uniform now consists of wearing scrubs, shoes that can easily wipe away fluids [Danskos are what I wear], a regular surgical ear loop mask, a N95 mask, and on t wear a homemade mask to protect my surgical mask and N95, a surgical cap, and now with buttons to save my ears from all the strings that rub on my ears. Along with that I shield and if I don’t have that then I wear my safety goggles.” Moore-Lehman said, “If I d COVID-19 room or if there is suspicion of someone having COVID-19, I do HAVE to we call a CAPR, which stands for Controlled Air Purifying Respirator due to my face not ac fit for an N95. I don’t wear the CAPR for every shift unless I’m working in the COVID department or if I have a COVID-19 positive patient to take care of due to there only bein for the whole ER department. This is why I wear a bunch of masks when I can’t get a CA wear a surgical gown and I also double layer my gloves.” Hospitals around the country are also reporting shortages of necessary supplies like m tors in each hospital for patients to use. “We are running out of things but they are being replaced fairly quickly. It’s not like o we still have all the essentials we need right now,” Moore-Lehman said. “I am able to ge one. The only thing we’re running low on is the CAPR shields.” Amid stressful shifts and long hours spent in masks, many hospitals are doing their b
As of Mar. 20, 2020 there are...
32,003 Confirmed case 1,346 Deaths globally
MARCH 20, 20204ARROW4FEATURED STORY4PAGE 7
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the onset of COVID-19
“Our hospital plays music when COVID-19 patients are leaving the hospital. Right now, ‘Ain’t No Mountain High Enough’ plays every time a COVID-19 patient gets discharged.” e unknown. Schools are closed, sports are canceled, FIGHTING A VIRUS INSTEAD OF FIRE Stephen Jelsch is a firefighter/EMT for the Rochester Hills Fire Department, and he has never had to face anything like COVID-19 ch requests that all residents should stay home to before. His shifts are long, he’s working lots of overtime, and calls about COVID-19 have been immense. s, and food suppliers are among some that are still “Working during COVID-19 is obviously more stressful than a normal workday. The city is manning extra rigs right now, so they are y on Mar. 10 when two cases of COVID-19 were calling in for overtime. Right now, they are trying to get all the manpower that they can for each station. There are more calls than usual due to COVID-19, which makes us more busy than normal sometimes,” Jelsch said. “There is a lot more preparing and a lot more learning. Every day we learn new things like protocols and policies. There have definitely been some changes in the way we have to was one of the first Emergency Department em- prepare for certain calls.” high-stress Calls with a suspected COVID-19 patient are forced take more precaution than normal, but in the same amount of time as a regular call. he governor “If the call is a suspected COVID-19 patient, we wear either an N95 or an N100 mask, safed exposures, ty glasses, a gown, and gloves. Usually for these calls, we have to get our gear on while we are to do it fast. en-route. Because firefighters/EMTs share the same living space for a shift, it would be really and policies bad if one of us got infected, so we have to be extra careful,” Jelsch said. “Right now, we are not nstant menrunning out of supplies because our city buys them for us. We will be stocked for a long while ER. Before, at the station. mething and Yeah, they’re manning extra rigs right now, so they’re calling in overtime for more manpower.” erent type of PREPARING FOR A CANCELED TEST off to family Junior year is said to be the hardest year in high school due to standardized testing. However, due to the virus, standardized tests have been canceled across the country. of protective “I was upset at first when I heard that the tests were canceled because I was prepared to take both [the SAT and ACT],” junior Jenna Clark said. “Now, I’m okay with it because I have more time y any bodily to study.” top of that I Some colleges and universities have even waived the SAT or ACT from admissions for the fall w headbands 2021 school year. Other universities and colleges are going test-optional for their school year. wear a face “I plan on applying to colleges in Michigan that don’t require standardized test scores for do go into a the class of 2021 for now,” Clark said, “and when I can take the tests in the fall I will apply to more ear what we This is a drive-up testing site for possible COVID-19 patients. Not everyone can be tested for colleges.” ctually being COVID-19, but in order to get tested, one has to contact a local healthcare provider. These A SENIOR SEASON SHATTERED workers are wearing CAPRs, N95 masks, gloves, and gowns to protect themselves. D area of the healthcare It’s the last season for senior Megan Hanoush to play varsity soccer with her teammates. With TRIBUNE NEWS SERVICE PHOTO ng 5 CAPRs playing soccer for Utica since freshman year, it will be hard to leave. APR. We also “Not getting a final season is really upsetting to say the least. It’s heartbreaking that we had to end like this. One day there are tryouts after school and the next school is being canceled for weeks. I was hoping for big things with my masks and goggles. There are also limited ventila- team this year, too. I wanted us to become MAC White Champs for my senior year,” Hanoush said. “The team was looking really good this year and I believe we had a big chance at winning the MAC. No matter what happens, this team will always have each others’ backs and I our normal brand stuff but we still have wipes and will never forget all of the fun memories I created with being a part of this program.” et a new N95 if mine gets soiled or if I need a new AN UNKNOWN FUTURE While the future of the virus is unknown, all people can do is be patient until there is a safe time to resume normal daily activities. There best to keep morale high. is no time line that gives definite answers, but the mark in the community from COVID-19 will last a lifetime.
es globally 4,800 Confirmed cases in the U.S. 201 Deaths in the U.S.
Check out how our staff is managing life during the stayat-home order.
WORLD HEALTH ORGANIZATION SOURCE WORLD HEALTH ORGANIZATION SOURCE
PAGE 8 3FEATURE 3ARROW 3MARCH 20, 2020
Getting a lyft to school
Staff, students take advantage of Uber and Lyft services to commute
Girl Scout cookies put to the test NUR AWKAL
EDITOR
When put to the test, can people really tell the difference between the original Girl Scout cookies and their Walmart brand counterparts? The Arrow crew put that question to the test. Tagalongs, Trefoils, Samoas, Do-Si-Dos, and Thin Mints got to be part of the taste test. Almost every flavor had a Walmart version of the cookie. The journalism and newspaper crew members that participated in the taste test all had to close their eyes. The name brand cookie was given in their left hand and the off-brand cookie from Walmart in their right. At a count of three everyone tried the cookie that was in their right hand first. Many had a hard time deciding what the difference was between both brands of the Samoa cookies. Every cookie is uniquely different and that is what everyone loves about them. Thin Mints have a crumbly texture and are minty covered in chocolate. Samoas are round with a cookie cracker, topped with crispy coconut, caramel, and chocolate. Trefoils are a sugar cookie with a little less flavor then the rest of the cookies. Do-si-dos are two saltier cookies with peanut butter in the middle. Last, but not least, there are the Tagalongs which have a thin cookie, peanut butter on top, and are covered in chocolate. The off-brand cookies looked a little different then the Girl Scout cookies. The only exact replicas the crew had was the Thin Mints and Samoas. The rest did not have exact replicas in the cookie section at Walmart. They are very differently priced, but the money for Girl Scout cookies is to fund their program.
Everyone had to close there eyes for the taste test, because some of the cookies had a very similar taste, but have very different looks. Many enjoyed the on brand cookies over the Walmart cookies. “I thought the one in my left hand was the Girl Scout cookie,” senior Dominic Lount said. “The one in my right hand was thinner then a regular thin mint cookie.” The Samoas were very hard to differentiate for everyone, hence they looked and tasted the exact same. The whole group came to that census. The Tagalongs did not have a competitor, but many did enjoy them. The Do-Si-Dos looked a lot different then the ones bought from Walmart. For this one we made everyone close their eyes, with different cookies placed into each hand for the test. These were a very close call on flavor, and no one knew which one was which. Among the group, this cookie was not as well-known as the other cookies. Trefoils were everyone’s least favorite and these also had no competition. Everyone said it was very bland and boring compared to the other cookies The consensus for everyone was in favor of the Girl Scout cookies. Everyone said that the cracker in the Girl Scout cookies was a lot better then the Walmart version. The Walmart version had less freshness, and less flavor. The most favored cookie among the group were the Somoas. The mixture of the cracker, caramel, coconut, and chocolate drizzle on top was a winner for the whole group. Thin mints were also a very close draw to the winner.
36% Thin Mints
57% Samoas
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In an effort to not have to take the bus home after school, students have become creative in their alternatives for a ride home. Recently, one of the popular ways for a quick solution for this problem, is taking an Uber or Lyft ride home. This is becoming increasingly more common among youth in high schools, and in general. Uber and Lyft are companies that offer driving services, to those who may want a ride. To request an Uber, it is quite simple, you just have to download the Uber app, enter your desired destination address in the where to box. After these few simple steps, just click an available vehicle in your city, and click request. Although, one of the most vital requirements to try and get an Uber has a severe roadblock for local high-schoolers. That the age limit is 18. “I believe 18 is a sufficient age for Uber,” officer Jim Malczewski said. “They are legally adults now, so there would be no reason to change it now.” Because of the fact that a lot of high-schoolers aren’t of age, it’s hard for them to order Ubers. Although with the app, and modern technology, it has now become all that much easier to. Because now parents can also log into the app, if they cannot come to pick up their child. Since the parents are over 18, they can now bypass the age wall for their children, and order an Uber for their children. “I personally am not comfortable with my kids, in third and fifth grade in Uber’s alone,” teacher Jeff LaPratt said. “In regards to older students, I believe they should institute the buddy system instead of going alone.” Although, due to certain circumstances, there always aren’t always a parent available to pick their children up, due to personal circumstances, working late, or whatever. In these circumstances, options to get the student home become much more limited, and ideas have to become more creative. In these times, Uber or Lyft may be the last source that the school
can come up with to get the student home safely. Although, this is again very circumstantial. Where the students getting this ride home are on the older spectrum of students, more 1718 years old, and are not only old enough, but more mature enough to handle the ride home. “The kids we’ve helped are at least 17 or 18 years old,” principal Tom Lietz said. “This is as a last alternative. Only when they are the appropriate age will we most likely go through with it.” Along with the travels of Uber and Lyft, comes the long awaited, price tag associated with this. Generally, per mile, the average starting price is around $2 for Uber. As for Lyft, it comes close to a price of $1.50 per mile, with a $0.90 initial fee. “I think it’s a good price, senior Sophia Cortez said. “It’s really affordable considering I only have only one family car. So with the affordable prices, it is a nice alternative instead of having to get another car for the family to use.” With all these factors into consideration, another problem arises, the fear factor. Although Uber and Lyft are reliable sources for their customers, there are always some lingering fears of drivers. Although some may be skeptical, Uber and Lyft conducts annual background checks of their employees to ensure that they are safe for customers. At the same time making sure their services are adequate for their customers, so customers are comfortable. “I think that it depends what driver you have,” junior Jenna Clark said. “If you feel safe I would go through with it, but I would like to know a little more information about my driver before I get a ride from them.” In recent times, due to the COVID-19, the chief executor of Uber recently released a statement that sales plunged between 60-70%. Although, when there is a loss, there is also a win. As the use of Uber eats dramatically increased in these past few weeks, according to the New York Times, as they saw a 27% increase in sales.
Ta 7% ga lo n
ANTHONY BARNEY
EDITOR
ARROW STAFF POLL
“I like Thin Mints,” senior Abby Jenkins said. “I prefer them cold.”
“I don’t like Tagalongs,” senior Anthony Barney said. “I don’t like peanut butter.”
“I love Samoas,” senior Dominic Lount said. “The blend is perfect.”
“I love Do-Si-Dos,” senior Charlies Borus said, “because they are creamy.”
MARCH 20, 20204ARROW4FEATURE4PAGE 9
SPORTS ATHLETES, COACHES, FANS, AND MORE
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Dubs only for wrestling team Team earns MAC Blue title, Davis wins Coach of the Year CAMERON SMALE
MANAGING EDITOR
Ending the season with an impressive undefeated record, the Utica wrestling team celebrates one of their most outstanding years. While seniors are finished with their wrestling careers, junior high school students are just beginning theirs. The team has been waiting for a MAC Blue win for a long time and all their conditioning had paid off. The Utica wrestlers have stated that their team was very “tight knit” and that they got along throughout their season. “We really felt like a tight community, we supported each other and helped each other learn,” sophomore Antonio Capelj said. “Training is painful, it consists of stretching, running, lifting and sparing. I look forward to improving my skills and keep working hard at wrestling.” The wrestling team is one of the teams that had a community all on it’s own, as described by the athletes who participate in it. When the team isn’t at practice, they follow diet plans and recruit during the off season. “Being on the team is the best part about wrestling,” junior Hunter Ali said, “we all get along and work hard to make each other better. Next year I’m looking forward to go after the MAC Blue Championship again. Winning it this year was an amazing experience for the team.” For these athletes, their wrestling careers start in junior high. The Utica wrestling coach recruits athletes from a very young age and conditions them into wrestling champions. The returning wrestlers will prepare for next year with various
diets which will insure that they stay in their designated weight classes. They will also prepare by doing other sports as well as doing weight training. “Coach is very enthusiastic,” Capelj said. “He wants to make sure the job is done right and doesn’t leave anyone to falter behind.” Coach Davis was awarded the title of MAC Blue Wrestling Coach of the Year due to his outstanding methods and strategies. “I’m proud of how all the guys wrestled this year. At no point can I say we were not wrestling to our ability,” Davis said. “I’m very proud of all the hard work that the team has been putting into this season.” Although the team won the MAC Blue championship, they did lose the team district final. Davis has always been a big believer of his athletes doing the best that they can, and that’s what satisfies him. “We lost a hard fought battle to Utica Ford in our team district final. I am super proud to be the coach of these guys. They brought their game that evening,” Davis said. “Even though I know they are disappointed, I hope they don’t let it linger because they should be proud of their performance. My only hope is that they use this as fuel to continue to improve.” Overall the wrestling team has agreed that this has been one of their best seasons yet. They have accomplished many goals, and lots of the athletes have achieved their personal goals. Lots of the athletes were even awarded medals for their abilities. Although the Michigan schools have been shut down for the rest of the year, some wrestlers still train from in their homes for next season.
Prior to winning his first match of the county tournament, the referee raises junior Hunter Ali’s hand toward the crowd. “I was really excited because it was a big tournament,” Ali said. “Winning the first match meant I could continue to the next day.” Ali’s victory allowed him to compete in the next day of wrestling, helping his team earn fifteenth place out of 36 teams. clarissa rose photo
Chieftain swimmers make waves at county meet CHARLES BORUS
EDITOR
Senior captain Dominic Lount is ready to start the 50 Freestyle.
Senior captain Cameron Smale earned a medal in the 500 Freestyle. LIFETOUCH PHOTOS
It’s the feeling of water encasing senior Dominic Lount that propels him to the opposite side of the pool. His adrenaline kicks in as soon as he touches the cold water. “I am so proud of my team and I am so lucky to have been able to play this sport three years of high school,” Lount said. “It’s incredibly rewarding to be one of the captains of a team as dedicated to this sport.” Following a busy swim and dive season for the team, their time in the water was not over yet. Their work in and sometimes outside of the pool pushed captain Cameron Smale and Lount to qualify for counties in swimming. To qualify, Smale posted a time 5:49 in the 500 yard freestyle, and Lount posted a time of 24.1 seconds in the 50 yard freestyle. Smale went on to earn a medal at the county meet. Sophomore Lorenzo Weihermuller and senior Joshua Essenmacher qualified for counties in diving, and Essenmacher went on to earn a medal. “I wasn’t expecting to qualify,” Smale said. “To qualify, it would require me to drop over 30 seconds off my previous time. I felt both confused and excited at the same time when I found out I qualified.” Smale has been swimming for Utica since his freshman year, qualifying for counties in previous years in the 200 medley relay, 200 freestyle relay and the 400 freestyle relay. “Any time you can qualify for the county meet is an excellent accomplishment,” coach Joe Michol said. “Only the top twenty-four swimmers out of the entire county qualify for each swim event. It is always each swimmer’s individual and team aspirations to qualify for the county meet, as it is a stepping-stone toward the state meet.”
The counties meet was held at L’Anse Cruse High School on Feb. 8. While Utica showed a valiant effort, Dakota High School came out victorious with 397 points, while Utica had 13 points. “Especially in events like these, it is extremely important for teams to come together and support each other,” senior Andrew Garrison said. “ We cheer for each other and congratulate our teammates when they finish. It’s a tradition we have on the team, and it really brings us all together.” Both in and out of the pool, the Chieftain swimmers are one team. Despite some of them not swimming in the counties meet, their support did not stop. “The whole team stands at the end of the pool cheering them on,” senior captain Ryan Fromm said. “It’s nice because they can see us and it motivates them to not give up. It’s definitely incredibly rewarding to see your teammates finish an event-successful or not.” Now that both Lount and Smale are seniors, they will miss swimming for Utica High School. “As one of the only guys to join the team as a freshman,” Smale said, “I was able to help build the team into a phenomenal group of men. It was a great experience to build friendships and watch the younger guys on the team choose their favorite events. Also, Coach Joe is one of the greatest coaches I’ve ever had, and I’ll miss practicing with him every day.” Since Smale was a freshman when starting, and Lount was a sophomore, both have only improved. While they did have days where giving up would have been the easier way out, they continued onwards and were able to see the fruits of their labor. “It’s definitely bittersweet leaving the pool,” Lount said. “However, I, wouldn’t trade that experience for the world.”
VIEWPOINTS STUDENT VOICES AND OPINIONS
O N LI N E
PAGE 103VIEWPOINTS3ARROW3MARCH 20, 2020
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STAFF EDITORIAL
Staying home and staying safe. Even though staying home is extremely boring, it is necessary. It seems like there is nothing to do. The same shows keep from a gathering. playing over and over again on the television, sports are re- It’s not like the world is ending for peoples’ social lives, playing old games, and every board game has already been either. There are still other ways that people could socialize played. With Michigan banning all but essential travel, it instead of gathering in person. This generation has just about feels like all social life outside of the home is coming to a everything that anyone would ever need to talk to another screeching halt. person without being face-to-face. There is more to lose than There are many good things about the order that are over- there is compared to when one is staying home. Losing a life shadowed by the boredom and common want to leave the because someone doesn’t want to FaceTime seems unnechouse. For instance, some families can become closer and essary. It is understandable that a hug is definitely different learn more things about each other than before. With no- than a Skype call, but some things just need to wait until the where to be and nobody but whoever is living in the house world is safe again. to talk to, relationships have the opportunity to flourish. Not Although it may be tempting to leave the house or break to mention, it’s also a really good the rules set in place by the govertime to perfect a skill or hobby that nor, people need to remember that one otherwise would not have picked there is more to do than what many up outside of the quarantine. Some think. There is still a world outside may say that there is too much spare of a phone screen or a computer time, but others may think about it that is surrounded by nature. Going as a new way to be creative with their IS IT WORTH IT TO GO for a jog, tossing a football, or even time. going for a bike ride are all allowed OUT DURING THE LOCK This stay-at-home order was isas long as people are being safe and sued for a reason, as well. It’s not like DOWN? social distancing. There is more than the governor wants students out of people can do than can’t, but it takes school or people to become stir crazy motivation to do these activities. YES NO at home. There is serious danger in Finding motivation during these the world and many people are only times can be hard, especially when looking at themselves instead of oththe overtone of the pandemic is deers when it comes to becoming infected. If one person has pressing. People need to stay strong and remember that the the virus or is carrying it, then another can get infected, and sooner people begin to stay home instead of going out, the then it becomes like a domino effect of infections. It only quicker the order will lift. takes one person to trigger an outbreak. People just need to be patient and listen to the instruc The worst part about the virus is that people can carry it tions provided by the experts. The actions of one person can without even showing symptoms. So one could feel fine, yet ruin it for the rest, so everyone has to do their part in staywalk around and infect the people that they love the most ing home. There is no reason besides grocery shopping that without even realizing. It can be hard to stay away from oth- one would need to go into public while a pandemic is taking ers, but it would be pretty terrible to infect someone’s grand- place. For the sake of those who at higher risk, stay home and parents because another person didn’t want to stay home healthy.
EDITORIAL BOARD VOTE
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HALEY GROOMS ILLUSTRATION
PERSPECTIVES
How are you keeping busy during the ‘Stay Home, Stay Safe’ order?
“I have been playing lots of video “I have been watching new shows and games and watching movies with my movies. I have also been spending family. There’s not much else to do.” more time with my family.”
“I have been having so many Zoom meetings. I feel like I have an office job with all of my coworkers. I even have to schedule Zoom meetings with my friends.”
“Teaching online has been keeping me really busy. In my spare time, I’ve been doing home improvement projects, and I’m also trying to be outdoors as much as possible.”
“I was able to purcase a moped recently. I have several buddies that have mopeds and we ride in a pack with keeping in mind the six foot safety zone.”
Nikolas Grooms
Olivia Kurek
Craig Smale
Officer Jim Malczewski
SOPHOMORE
Isabella Sill
JUNIOR
SENIOR
TEACHER
STAFF
MARCH 20, 2020 4 ARROW 4 VIEWPOINT 4 PAGE 11
OPINION
Varsity letters. Do band students deserve honor? Regardless of what sport one may play, such as football, soccer, golf or even marching band--those dreaded two words to which a lot of student athletes immediately assume are the geeks and nerds--all deserve recognition. For high schoolers, it is a proud moment to sport their brand new letterman jacket and sew on patches from the various activities they are involved in for everyone to see. When it comes to marching band, theatre and yes, even newspaper, letters do exist. However, these are not varsity letters. They are band letters or letters for the activity a student participated in. They represent a different category from the mainstream sports. These letters stand out on their own. A band letter, for example, CHARLES BORUS is smaller than the traditional EDITOR varsity Letter. For example, the word “BAND” inscribed into the bridge connecting the “U” together. Some schools, such as Rochester Adams High School, even have letters for academics. Now, when it comes to athletic levels, I understand that marching band is not as physically demanding as football or soccer. However, it doesn’t mean that there is no athleticism involved. Athleticism is not just based on how fast you can run a mile or how far you can throw a football. Athleticism involves strength of mind, as well. Across the county line in Troy Schools, marching band is viewed very differently. These students spend countless hours early in the morning, late at night and on weekends perfecting a very intricate show for a judge. The one difference is they play at a competition at least every week. While every band is unique, the common thread is that marching band members work very hard to present their performance. As a clarinetist, I personally have put in many hours outside of the band practices to perfect my performance, just like in any other athlete. My band letter means more to me than just my marching band performance. It is a reflection of my band experience as a whole.
When one walks down the hallways of Utica during the winter, one is bound to see a couple varsity jackets being worn. When one sees the jackets it can be assumed the wearer is in a sport--until they turn around and you see “Marching Band” or “Symphonic Band.” For athletes, getting a varsity letter is a goal. Athletes work hard for years to achieve it. Getting on varsity is not something someone automatically achieves after two years, like in marching band. It takes determination, and proving to coaches, teammates, and even oneself that they deserve to be on that team. For marching band, one just has to show up for two years. There is no system of who gets it and who doesn’t, ABBY JENKINS and even those who quit after DESIGN EDITOR two years get their varsity letter. It turns it into a participation award, instead of an award one actually needs to work for. Now, before someone yells at me for having this opinion, they should know I was on Color Guard, the non-musical part of marching band for four years. There were times where it was difficult; after all, we did practice all summer for hours in the burning sun. Hours of my summer and afternoons after school were dedicated to marching band, but that didn’t mean I thought I deserved a varsity letter. I honestly didn’t even know marching band participants got a varsity letter until I got one my junior year. I didn’t know because I wouldn’t think something that’s not a sport got a varsity letter. Also, I had done nothing special to earn it. Even the people I had seen slack off for the past two years received a varsity letter, which made me question the value of it all. Marching Band should have separate awards system, because after all, marching band is in a separate category as sports. Marchers work hard on their music and memorizing their formations, and they should be rewarded, too.
READER RESPONSE
Responses to ‘Life as a survivor’
Alice, what an amazing, personal and inspirational story. Thank you so much for sharing. I love the quote and I do believe that you’re one of His strongest soldiers. Thank you for all the positivity and smiles that you brought to class every day. I’m blessed to have had you as a student. Thank you! John See, staff Hi Alice! I cannot stop crying after reading your story – it is so inspirational. I love your attitude, spirit, smile – you are a poster child for hope. I am saddened that our semester together got cut short, however, it is meeting students like you that make my job incredibly worthwhile. I love the quote at the end of your story – I believe it to be true as well. I send my prayers to you and your family. Lacie Smith, staff Alice, thank you for sharing your story and your strength. Now, more than ever, we can learn from incredible young people like you who listened to and learned from medical care providers, who found inner strength to persevere and retains their incredible sense of self through it all. You’re an inspiration kid, and I’m grateful to know you! Thomas Lietz, principal
UHS Arrow Newspaper @UHSArrow
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
The 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. The 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. The 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. Cost per issue is $.50. Mail subscriptions are $10 per year.
Tom Lietz @uticaprincipal
If you know Haley, you know this isn’t a surprise. This was just a matter of time! Well done young miss!! UHS Arrow Newspaper @uhsarrow Congratulations to our print editor-in-chief Haley Grooms, who was named into the state Journalism staff for writing and reporting. This ranks her as one of the top journalists in the state! @MIPAMSU
Haley @hailandkaye
I love to see how some of my closest friends are reacting to being stuck in quarantine! UHS Arrow Newspaper @uhsArrow Throughout the state-mandated break from school, Arrow staff members will be posting updates on how they are dealing with and using their time off from school.
Editor-In-Chief Haley Grooms Digital Editor-In-Chief
Parker Hopkins
Managing Editor
Cameron Smale
Copy Editor Anthony Barney Sports Editor Dominic Lount Business Manager Lauren Kerr Social Media Editors Mackenzie Olmstead Nur Awkal
@UticaArrow
Design Editor Abby Jenkins Editor Magan Leitermann Reporter Wilhelmina Viviano Adviser Stacy Smale
@UHSArrow @uhs_arrow Cover by Haley Grooms Photo by Haley Grooms
PAGE 123SPOTLIGHT3ARROW3MARCH 20, 2020
SPOTLIGHT
WHO SHOULD BE IN THE SPOTLIGHT NEXT? TWEET YOUR IDEAS @UHSARROW
HIGHLIGHTING UNIQUE TALENTS & ACCOMPLISHMENTS
Tumbling into Success DOMINIC LOUNT
SPORTS EDITOR
In many different sports, there are opportunities to advance into the next level. Many of these opportunities can be attained through high school sports, but some sports do not go through the school. In senior Austin Kosanke’s case, gymnastics isn’t offered at Utica, but he has still continued with it through a long span of time. “This year is my twelfth year doing gymnastics,” Kosanke said. “I started when I was five years old.” Throughout Austin’s career as a gymnast, he has certainly racked up the hardware. He has totaled hundreds of medals over all twelve years, some individual awards as well as some for his team. Practices can be greuling, but in the end they can pay off in dividends. “I practice five times every week, and sixteen hours total,” Kosanke said. “and I have won many trophies for myself and also including team awards.” As previously mentioned, these practices and competitions are extremely time-consuming, so Kosanke must put extra time into activities outside of school in order to keep up with the demanding schedule of gymnastics as well as the demanding schedule and events of life. “The three hardest things about having practice the whole week,” Kosanke said, “are being able to balance homework, being very tired after constant workouts, and not having a lot of time to hang out with friends.” As in any sport, workouts and training are essential, but eating healthy is another major part of an athletes lifestyle as well. This is no different in gymnastics, as eating and drinking well can help enhance performance, and gymnastics requires lots of physical and mental toughness. “I don’t have a specific diet,” Kosanke said, “but I try to limit pop.” Most school and travel leagues go a few months, maybe even half a year. But that is not the case for gymnastics. Kosanke’s gymnastics team goes the whole year, with only a few breaks inserted here and there. This may create fatigue and is definitely a lot of time and commitment, but all of these practices and all of the repetitions will pay off in dividends when it comes to competition time, with strength building up from every practice. “It’s a year round sport so we get one full week off in the year on the week of July 4th,” Kosanke said. “however the competition season goes from November-ish until May.” Although senior year is almost complete, Kosanke does not plan on stopping his gymnastics career just yet. He plans to continue his career at the collegiate level. “I plan to continue with club gymnastics at Grand Valley University.” Kosanke said. The amount of commitment and perseverance it takes to balance school, sports and life has many other people in awe of what Kosanke does, as well as the success that he has in the sport of gymnastics. “Any time somebody can do a year-round sport and do well in school,” senior Jack Shepherd said, “that’s very impressive.” Many of Kosanke’s friends are also in awe at all of his gymnastics feats and accomplishments, including senior Jade Gomez. “Well, I think it’s really cool,” Gomez said. “It’s fun to be able to see all the skills he’s developed over the years I’ve known him.” Many student-athletes are in the same boat as Kosanke. They have year-round sports, in which there are practices many days of the week as well as competitions, and where they also have to maintain a healthy lifestyle during the season. It may seem challenging, but Kosanke has proven that it can definitely be done. “The one thing you need to have is determination,” Kosanke said. “The moment you start to feel unmotivated it gets one hundred times harder, so just push through it.”
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1: Kosanke stands on the winner’s podium as he wins first place. 2: Elementary school aged Kosanke poses while wearing his medals. 3: Kosanke does a handstand on the bars at a competition. 4: Kosanke met two-time Olympian Sam Mikulak at a gym.
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Young Kosanke does the “Lever” move on the rings at a competition.
Kosanke does a “Straddle L” on the rings during a competition.
Kosanke executes the “Circle” move on the pommel horse at a competition. ABBY JENKINS DESIGN AUSTIN KOSANKE COURTESY PHOTOS
