Arrow 2022 Issue 2

December 9, 20214Volume 924Issue 2

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

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

news feature sports

3 5 9

BAND OF THE YEAR

Marching band wins 4Frenzy title.

Page 3

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PAGE 2 3TABLE OF CONTENTS 3ARROW 3DECEMBER 9, 2021

CONTENTS 4

4 6 8 9 SIMMI SINGH PHOTO

DRAMA ON STAGE front of a live Theatre department performs inut wn. audience following COVID-19 sh do GE BOOK CLUB HOLIDAY EXCHAN usses “The Poet X” sc di g tin ee m b clu ok bo r’s be m ce De and exchanges favorite books.

FENSE FEATURED COVERAGE: SELF rDE ore information Check out our center spread fo wmR.A .D. course. about Shelby Township PD’s ne DONATIONS HUMANE SOCIETY RECEIVESbe fit local animal Basket raffle raises money to ne shelter.

SWIM RECORDS BROKEN on with wins, as se eir th up s ap wr am te im sw rls Gi titles and new school records.

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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

DECEMBER 9, 20214ARROW4NEWS4PAGE 3

CHIEF CONNECTION CHECK OUT THE ONLINE SCHOOL STORE, LED BY DECA STUDENTS, TO ORDER MERCH.

New attendance policy takes effect said. “We weren’t allowed to use our phones.”

Some students found themselves on the brink of being Utica’s new attendance policy recently took effect, and put on credit review due to the new policy. some students are already facing the consequences of go- “I was almost on credit review due to absences,” junior ing over the ten absences per semester limit.

Nathan Wunschl said. “Most of my absences were sick When a student is exceeding the ness related.” number of allowed absences, they Students have mixed feelings on are placed on credit review and have the attendance policy and whether to make up the time they missed they believe it is fair or not. through Saturday school.

“I think that the attendance policy “I am on credit review. Mrs. Olsen is sort of fair,” Baber said. called me down to her office and inMany students think the amount formed me,” junior Samantha Baber of absences needed to be put on said. “She told me that I had ten abcredit review should be higher, but sences and that I’d need to make up students disagree over what a good the credits through Saturday school,” number is.

Baber said.

“I would change the number of ab Students stayed at Saturday school sences to fifteen, or no limit,” Baber for three hours. said.

“I only had to do Saturday school “Some absences are completely once,” Baber said, “since you go for Students receive a “U” in PowerSchool when out of students’ control,” Wunschl three hours each time and each hour their absences are unexcused. More than 10 said. “I think around fifteen or twenexcused or not, can result in credit takes off one absence for the semes- absences, ty absences would be more acceptreview. ppowerschool screenshot ter.” able. I don’t think there should be no Saturday school was somewhat similar to how a nor- limit though. If there was no limit, then it would be easy mal class functions. for a lot of students to not worry about it and then get “We basically just sat there and did homework,” Baber really behind in classes.”

ABBY WILLIAMS

MANAGING EDITOR

UHSMB wins Marching Band of the Year People were able to vote as many times as they wanted, so many people voted repeatedly to boost Utica’s chances Utica’s marching band has won the WDIV 4Frenzy of winning. contest for the best marching band in the state for the “I voted around fifteen times,” junior Daniel Watersecond year in a row (excluding last year, as there was no stradt said. “I voted because I feel like we deserve to win contest due to the COVID-19 pandemic). since we worked very hard this season.”

The contest’s winner is based on whoever has the most Learning that Utica won the contest was exciting to votes after a certain amount of weeks. People could vote many of its members. by going to Local 4 News’ website “I was really excited to find out we and choosing which marching band won the contest, and I’m very proud they wanted to vote for once every to be in a band that has that title,” juhour. nior Alaina Wisswell said. “Winning “I was expecting us to win, but I competitions like this means a lot to did have a small amount of doubt in me because it feels like a payoff for all my mind due to us having a smaller the hard work we’ve done throughout marching band this year than we did the season.” two years ago,” junior Nathan WunWhile the members of Utica’s schl said. “Since the contest is based marching band definitely care about on whoever has the most votes, I recognition and fame, the glory of figured the other bands with more winning doesn’t matter to them as numbers would’ve won.” much as commitment and spirit do.

Other members of the band “I think teamwork is more imUtica High won Channel 4’s contest as best portant than winning,” Wisswell said. didn’t share the same doubts.

“I didn’t have any doubts at all,” marching band. clickondetroit.com/4frenzy “Without it, it just makes winning sophomore Van Wright said. “We a competition way less meaningful. had the constant dedication from our parents, so I knew When we hear those announcements saying we won, it we would’ve won.” feels like something worth celebrating and that all of the Commitment to the band is a sentiment shared time and effort we put into it was worth it.” throughout the band’s members and supporters.

“Recognition for winning contests like this is really “Our marching band has such dedicated people. Our important to me, but so is spirit,” Waterstradt said. “If I members have so much spirit and we get so much sup- had to pick between the two, I would probably choose port from our families,” Wunschl said. “We put our heart spirit. Spirit is what actually ties the band together and is and soul into performances.” why our band is so fun and amazing.”

ABBY WILLIAMS

MANAGING EDITOR

The newly installed Clover system allows students and staff to make purchases with their credit cards in the school store. photo by loriana mannino

Clover system installed School store accepts credit cards for purchases over $3 LORIANA MANNINO

REPORTER

Chieftain Connection, the school store, is now accepting credit cards in all stations.

“We accept all credit cards,” teacher Dana Boice said. “Apple Pay, as well’’.

The old system was outdated, so Boice said it was time for an upgrade.

“It’s much more modernized,’’ Boice said.

Students working in sales appreciate the new system of taking cards.

“It’s a lot easier to take everyone just at the window,” senior Anthony Chirco said.

With this new system of pay, it also helps students spend less.

“It lowered our spend minimum for card sales,” senior Bernadette Shamoon said.

The newer system of pay also helps students get ready for the future.

“It’s getting students ready for real life businesses,’’ principal Tom Lietz said.

The system change introduces students to the commonly used payment method Clover. ‘‘Clover makes POS and small business management systems for every type of business. Take payments, run your business, and sell more whether you need a countertop point of sale, a handheld device, or no hardware at all,’’ Clover’s website said.

Since using card is more convienient than losing or dropping money, the new system makes students lives slighly easier.

“Debit is more convenient than cash,” junior Demetri O’Neill said.

This system isn’t like any old register. It’s very modern, fitting student’s futures with any type of sales jobs. ‘‘Clover point of sale devices work independently or together,” according to their website, “powered by a cloud-based system that puts everything you need to run your business at your fingertips.”

Cheiftains can now buy items with more speed and less stress.

BEHIND THE SCENES PAGE 4 3FEATURE 3ARROW 3DECEMBER 9, 2021

Theatre department returns to stage with dramatic play

ALEX SCHMIDT

DIGITAL EDITOR

“The Incomplete Life & Random Death of Molly Denholtz” was Utica’s first play since COVID-19. It was held Nov. 18 and 19 at 7 pm, and Nov. 20 at 4 pm.

“I think it went very well, I remember everyone backstage all reading along with the script, and when it would be a line the actor was struggling in we would all cheer happily and quietly if they got it right”, senior Ashlynn Gazaway said. “The best night I remember seeing is a tie for Thursday and Saturday, our opening and closing nights.

I think we all did amazing in the play, we all worked very hard and worked quickly to get one set cleaned off to get another set rolling.”

Students assisted in various roles.

“I was an usher for the play and I think it went beautifully,” sophomore Kaelin Selbee said. “Some nights were definitely better than others, but I think my fellow cast and crew members did amazing,” The ushers would stand and greet you at the auditorium doors then hand you a booklet about the play.

“I played the role of Emma in the play. I think it went very well. It was fun, exciting, and nerve wracking at the same time,” junior Nadeen Rashed said. “I think everyone did good, we all worked so hard and even if someone messed up we looked out for each other.”

The tech crew ran stuff mostly like the lights and if there was sounds or music and the microphones.

“I was a part of the running crew, specifically I helped with props and occasionally helped with moving the furniture on and off the stage,” junior Alaina Wisswell said. “I think it went very well during all the performances, but the final one went the best. Everyone did an amazing job for bringing the whole show together, and I’m very proud of all of them.”

The running crew handled most of the furniture moving and props.

“I played the role as Kris, a quiet kid who struggles with anger and guilt,” junior Savannah VanPamel said. “I think it went very well.

Each night had some small hiccups, but nothing we couldn’t manage.”

The producers worked with the entire crew to ensure the show would be a success.

“My role is always producer. I am most of the time scenic designer.

I giude the directors in their process,” teacher Joel Kaczmarczyk said.

“The play went very well. I was proud of them being able to handle such diffcult subject matter, and their acting was very natural and convincing.”

Above: Reagan Ludwick and Lily Oddo go over what the cast and crew need to work on at the rehearsal.

Far Left: Abigail Clark works on the light design for the show.

Middle: Jordyn Wurth practices her lines for one of the play’s scenes.

Left: Lily Oddo and teacher Joel Kazmarczyk discuss the play with the cast and crew. photos by natalie garwood

DECEMBER 9, 20214ARROW4FEATURE4PAGE 5

FEATURE

FEATURE STORIES CHECK OUT ARROW’S ONLINE FEATURE STORIES

INTERESTING STUFF

‘Poet X’ is next Book Club chooses new novel for December DYLAN HADFIELD

REPORTER

Students layed on the ground in preparation for a giant group act showing “Thriller.”

photo by ethan smale

Students showcase talents

Variety of acts entertain during first in-person show of the year it.

“It can give you confidence in yourself,” junior Ema An edge, a leap of faith, breath shaking as they look Mcmillan said, “for future attempts on stage.”

Having a lack of fear about public speaking not only out across a sea of faces, the music starts, can help you to be good in a talent show, the lights blast on. but it could help you down the road in Utica students shocked the audience your life as well. with a display of skill and bravery. The “If kids can get over their fear of pubshow opened with Jane Ellen performing lic speaking and performing,” sophomore the song “The Water Is Wide.”

Max Lauderback said, “it could help them She held the audience’s attention and go farther in life than they had thought gave the viewers a showing of what they they could before, especially if they are were in store for throughout the rest of the going into management of some kind.” show. After being in lockdown for so long, The talent show is a great way to imstudents said the talent show was a great prove the skill of speaking in front of way to improve morale. crowds. If anyone is interested in going “I think the talent show boosts school into careers with the possibility of public spirit,” senior Jordy Wurth said, “and brings speaking, then the talent show or other everyone together.”

The students of Utica High School show Jordy Wurth sang the song That school performance events are great ways spirit in many ways. For some students it’s Funny Feeling by Bo Burnham. to help. trhough singing, others prefer to act, and while playing guitar. photo by John “I was happy with how the show went,, but if there was one thing I’d change it then there are the dancers or breakdancers Adkins would be the preparation beforehand of course. since there was a delay between some of For this particular senior, the show was the acts.” Even though it wasn’t perfect, more than just about the dancing. and there were some mistakes, overall, the “It was a trip down memory lane,” sestudents of Utica High school do not renior Antonio Capeij said, “It’s been five gret it. years since I’ve danced, but once I heard Even though the talent show only the music I got my groove on.” comes once a year, it never fails to leave an Just because they got on stage doesn’t impact. Students and teachers alike that mean this year’s talented kids didn’t have were able to attend the show will be able doubts. to hold that memory forever, good or bad.

“It had been a while since I had been on Until next year, all people can do now stage,” Wurth said. “I was really nervous.” is wait and prepare. One thing can be said But despite being nervous, students appeared one after the other on stage. Fear is Breakdancing talent shown to the for sure, those who participate once again crowd by Antonio Capelj. photo by next year will demonstrate improvement, a cage and the key is repetition. because they are Chieftains, and proud.

If you go on stage once, it will no’t be as ethan smale Pride is said to cause people’s downfall, bad the second time, and if you get into a habit of something then you wouldn’t have to have fear of but for Chieftains, it brought strength.

JOHN ADKINS

REPORTER

Book Club is back for the 2021-2022 school year, with its second meeting scheduled this month. For returning members, it’s time to open up that book and get to reading. Students can jump in at any time, if a book interests them. Just imagine sitting by a fire under a blanket, and watching the snow fall from the sky while reading.

“It’s a club for kids,” teacher Melissa Kevonian said, “trying to love reading.”

Book Club picks a book and it takes about a month to read each book. In previous months, Book Club has read “Anxious People” by Fredrik Backman and “The Midnight Library” by Matt Haig.

Meetings are Tuesday at 7pm in the Eat Well Cafe on Hall Road, where students have the option to purchase a snack or drink while they chat.

This month’s book is called “The Poet X,” the debut novel by renowned slam poet Elizabeth Acevedo. “‘The Poet X’ was an amazing read,” sophomore Natalie Garwood said. “It was different that a lot of other works because it was a story told through poems.

It was a really impactThis month’s club selection is “The Poet X,” ful piece because it was something a lot of

by Elizabeth Acevedo. young women can attest to a relate to. The book told an amazing story of religious doubt and breaking from the path your parents want you to take.”

Some students look forward to reading the books, while others enjoy the discussion.

Kevonian said she loves the discussions the students have with each other, as being able to express yourself in today’s world is valuable.

“Our discussions are really important to help us understand the book from other perspectives,” Garwood said.

“Usually we have guided questions, but I really enjoyed it when we had a free discussion. We were able to express our opinions on what happened, and share how it relates to us and life today.”

This club’s main goal is to just inspire kids to read, according to Kevonian.

“Book Club is a good place to get together with people with similar hobbies, and it really gives you a taste for literature that you may not have read on your own,” Garwood said. “Being able to discuss with people helps build relationships and an understanding between races, genders, and ages. Reading is a helpful skill that this club helps to build.”

The club will be posting its next novels and dates in January.

PAGE 63FEATURED STORY3ARROW3DECEMBER 9, 2021

EVENING THE ODDS THROUGH SELF DEFENSE TRAINING

Local police officers instruct female students to take advantage of us, or try to hurt us, and we don’t know how to respond to that because of being Picture walking out of the mall heading to the raised to be nice and quiet.” car with the only source of light, the gloom from During the demonstration, the girls learned that the moon. Giving a quick glance to your phone to they have to be ready for anything. They learned see if anyone texted, you notice a notification pop how to be quick on their feet. up from Instagram DMs and open it to see what it “We learned a couple different techniques,” says. Distracted, you’re unexpectedly grabbed from sophomore Alyssa Clark said. “The one that was behind. How are you going to react to this? What the most powerful to me was that we learned if actions would you take? we are grabbed from behind to drop our weight to “Girls especially are raised to be nice and be qui- make us heavier to the attacker. We also learned the et,” resource officer Leslie Heisler said. “Girls don’t importance of using our voices.” realize the power they have to be able to stop these Many young women participate in this training situations from happening.” to build confidence and take away fear.

Power, according to Heislet, is a term that is of- “I took this training to learn more about how to ten used to show an imbalance. However, girls can defend myself in any situation if I do need help,” learn skills that can empower them. sophomore Samantha LoCricchio Heisler is currently working with said. “It built my confidence because the Shelby Township Police Deknowing how to defend myself made partment to bring Rape Aggression me feel more confident in being out Defense system to the area. A 24on my own. I learned what to do if hour course, R.A.D. is a national I am being attacked by anyone, no program that is taught all over the matter how they come at me, whethcountry, and is a self-defense course er it is from the front or the back. It for women only. It will be taught by helped with feeling with more confipolice officers themselves, including dent and feeling a little safer in places Heisler. where I don’t.” photo by natalie garwood The program was recently fea “Teaching a woman that they have tured on WDIV Local News Detroit, “You can’t face the the power to defend themselves gives and several students were invited to world scared; you have them the power over their own safedemonstrate typical training. to face the world with ty,” Heisler said. “It is not hard to “I would say Officer Leslie defi- preparation.” learn self-defense; it’s actually very nitely taught us you can be physicalResource Officer Leslie Heisler, easy. We teach about seven different ly prepared and strong, but mentally, Shelby Township Police Department moves that can protect you from all you must be strong and always be kinds of different scenarios so you aware of your surroundings,” senior Anneke Kaup- can always be prepared for anything.” pila said. “I would definitely say that my mind- In the short time spent with Heisler, the parset shifted to being more aware of the urgency of ticpants learned the importance of preparation. Seknowing how to protect yourself and be ready for nior Samantha LoCriccho enjoyed the opportunity, any situation. The most important thing I learned and hopes to take tthe full course. is how urgent it is to constantly be prepared and “I feel like parents want to protect their kids strong. The world is evil and anything can happen from the scary stuff and the dangers of the world. and so preparing myself physically and mentally We want them to enjoy the world and not be scared isn’t just important, it’s urgent.” of it, but we forget that there are monsters out there Not only is there a mental aspect to self-defense, in this world,” Heisler said. “It’s important for high but the tough physical aspect was taught, as well. school women to understand this because some of “It is important for girls to know certain self-de- you are getting ready to go off to college and maybe fense tactics because girls especially are raised to be on your own for the first time in your life, so you be nice and to be quiet,” Heisler said. “We don’t may not always have your family or people you’ve realize we have the power that we do have, so as known forever around to protect you, so it is crufemales get older we realize that people might want cial that you know how to protect yourself.”

MARISSA BARCH

COPY EDITOR

&

BROOKE MONARCH

COPY EDITOR

DECEMBER 9, 20214ARROW4FEATURED STORY4PAGE 7

Escape an attack

The Face (eyes and nose)

The bone in the nose is thin and easily broken. Hurting your attacker’s eyes will cause a loss of sight for a short period of time, giving you an opportunity to escape.

Palm Heel Strike

Bottom Fist Strike Thumb Gouge

Jab toward the nose, palm first.

With your hand in a fist, strike down on the nose.

After grabbing the head securely, push thumbs into the inside corner of the eyes.

Rake your thumbs to the outside.

Get out of a Wrist Hold

If the attacker grabs with one hand, roll your wrist, thumb first, toward the “V” of his hand and bend his thumb backward so he lets go.

Shin Scrape, Stomp

If the attacker grabs with both hands, grab the wrist that is being held with your free hand and pull your hand out and up.

The Groin

Knee, punch, or kick in the groin.

Kicking or hitting from below has less chance of being blocked than from stright on.

If you can’t kick the knee because the attacker is behind you, turn your foot sideways and drag the back edge of your shoe along his shin. End with a swift heel stomp to the foot.

Get out of body holds Headlock

Read Bear Hug

Choke Hold

Grab onto one or both legs and lift up to knock over the attacker.

Head butt him in the nose, since both hands are occupied and he can’t block you.

Get your hands between his arms and your neck; push away to prevent your air getting cut off.

infographic by marissa barch, source: shoeby township police officer leslie heisler photo illustrations by natalie garwood

PAGE 8 3FEATURE 3ARROW 3DECEMBER 9, 2021

GameStop, popular video game store that sells games, consoles, and other electronics. photo by mct campus

New holiday video games released for 2021 AUSTIN LAMPHIER

REPORTER

For this holiday season, stores will be packed with the newest and latest video games. This year has had some heavy hitters so far, such as “Hitman 3”, “Resident Evil Village”, “New World”, “Far Cry 6”, “Forza Horizon 5”, and many more.

In November, one of the most popular video game series released their new title “Call of Duty Vanguard”.

“I like the graphics and the game play style,” senior Joseph Perry said. “The weapons are fun to mess with but the only downside is the lack of content.”

The newest entry in Call of Duty reverses things, taking place back in World War II. The game’s campaign features a 4-way story with different perspectives from multiple battlefields of the war. It also continues the much enjoyed “Zombies” franchise with the lead developers returning from the

previous game, “Black Ops Cold War”.

Though for both Perry and senior Julian Trimceski, the most exciting game coming out this holiday season is “Halo Infinite”. “‘Halo Infinite’ is my number one choice right now,” Trimceski said. “I am definitely 100% looking to get it for Christmas. The free-to-play multiplayer has already been released and is a blast to play, especially with friends. The campaign is sounding pretty sick, so you already know I have to get it. I’m also a massive fan of the Halo franchise, so there’s that too.”

“Halo Infinite”, being the last standalone title in its series, is one of the more highly anticipated games of the year.

For some people, this years releases just aren’t exciting enough compared to next year’s.

“I’m most excited about ‘Elden Ring’,” sophomore Hector Martinez Martinez said. “I’m just a fan of the MMORPG

games.”

The hype for “Elden Ring” comes from it being created from the same people who made the famous “Dark Souls” series. They also collabed with fantasy novelist George R. R. Martin, famous for the “A Song of Ice and Fire” novel series.

“Yes I have played the new ‘Call of Duty’ and ‘Battlefield 2042,’” Martinez Martinez said, “and they were both horrible games.”

“Battlefield 2042” takes the setting of the title series to the much awaited future.

“Battlefield 2042,” along with “Call of Duty Vanguard,” and “Halo Infinite” ends the year of 2021 with a lot of hype. This excitement will continue with releases like “Elden Ring,” “Dying Light 2,” “Rainbow Six Extraction,” and “Horizon Forbidden West” which all come out early next year.

Donations collected during Charity Week, holidays

“I don’t think we could’ve done better,” Jones said. “There were a lot more participants than I expected, it just needed more publicizing.”

Love. Kindness. Joy. Generosity. Four words come to mind when reminiscing about A lot more charitable acts are still being done even past the Charity Week at UHS by both Chieftain Charity week.

Key Club and Student Council.

For this whole week of November, here at the U students had the option to donate to a Ongoing from Nov. 29 to Dec. 10 is Key Club’s annual Canned Food Drive, and Student variety of baskets, the funds going to the Humane Society of Council’s Toys for Tots going from November 29 to DeMacomb. cember 8.

MSU, U of M, UHS, gift card variety, movie theme, dog The UHS Tribe makes great strides giving whatever and cat, and mystery were the themes of each basket. they can to these charities in need.

The popularity contest between the baskets had the gift These charitable acts done by the Chieftains working card at the top, the UHS themed #2, and sitting last surprishard in Key Club and Student Council keep the Chieftain ingly the MSU and U of M. spirit standing tall and proud.

A few of the winners are sophomore Zachary Blake, ju The majority of students love to do good deeds for the nior Mya Harmon, teacher Yvonne Swanson and teacher people in need and keep the spirit alive.

Stacy Smale.

The student body at Utica keeps these charities staying Some student council members had other ideas for bassuccessful with all of the money donated and students are ket themes. the main factor.

“A general sports basket would’ve been good,” sopho “It’s going great,” Key Club sponsor Paula Ballard said. more Jordan Jones said, “A vote for favorite sports teams “The generosity and service driven students make Utica and then making a basket based on that.”

High and Key Club worth every penny.”

“I liked the gift card basket,” sophomore Gabby Boskov What makes this school what it is is the communities’ ich said. “I would’ve wanted an outdoorsy basket, not just a hearts coming together. basket with sports clothing.”

At the Humane Society of Macomb on 21 Mile Road, several members of Stu- “Utica’s long-standing concern for others within their Some students don’t think the baskets got enough atten- dent Council, along with teacher Suzanne Greenfield, brought donations to community is the heartbeat of the school,” Ballard said. help the animals. Greenfield regularly volunteers at the shelter and fosters The true meaning behind the canned food drive is tion.

“I don’t think it was promoted enough,” Boskovich said. dogs, as well. photo by andrea solomon more than just the money.

“More signs in the hallways and just more hype around it.”

“What I’d love to see,” Ballard said, “is for every student A majority of students liked the gift card basket and thought it was cool, giving it the to bring canned food items to share around. Every family should feel blessed at this time of number one spot in which basket was the most popular. year, and be joyful--have fun--spend time with loved ones.”

TYLER WATFORD

REPORTER

& GRACIE WETHERINGTON REPORTER

DECEMBER 9, 20214ARROW4SPORTS4PAGE 9

SPORTS ATHLETES, COACHES, FANS, AND MORE

GET UP-TO-DATE SPORTS INFO MISS A GAME, OR PLANNING ON GOING TO ONE? FIND ALL OF THE INFORMATION ON OUR SITE

MHSAA adds women’s wrestling division Women’s Wrestling • Women’s Wrestling has been in the Olympics since 2004 • Colleges are adding Women’s Wrestling programs yearly • Women’s Wrestling improves confidence and mental toughness • Women’s Wrestling teaches basic self defense techniques • Since 1994, the number of women who wrestle in high school has grown from 804 to around 21,000 • In 2020, the National Junior College Athletic Association announced they would recognize Women’s Wrestling as an emerging sport

GRACIE WETHERINGTON

REPORTER

The Michigan High School Athletic Association has added a girls only wrestling division, and a meeting was held for girls interested in joining the Utica wrestling team Nov. 3.

“The turnout wasn’t that great at the meeting,” coach Clinton Davis said. “There was only one girl that showed up.”

Despite the poor turnout at the meeting, there is still one girl on the team.

“There is currently one girl on the team, and she was on the team last year. I took her to a state meet and it was really cool,” Davis said.

“Girls joining wrestling teams isn’t something new, it has been going on for quite some time.

But the difference in how they competed with each other over a wrestling match with a boy was so good to see. They were super competitive and I saw a lot of great wrestling that day.”

The addition of a girls division does not mean the addition of a girls team, as the practices are going to be COED. “This is one of the reasons why I wanted to have a separate meeting. I wanted to make sure to explain that it was just a girls only division being added to the state meet, not a separate team,” Davis said. “I wanted to explain that I would be comfortable with whatever they are.

Alli Sparks, our current girl wrestler, has no issue practicing with the guys. If there were girls interested and only wanted to practice and compete against girls, then make sure you bring

a friend as a practice partner.”

The addition of a girl’s division is also a great opportunity to encourage more girls to join teams and promote the sport.

“I’m very glad there is a girls division,” junior Alli Sparks said, “especially to encourage more ladies to join.”

Although the practices are COED, girls being on the team makes no difference.

“It doesn’t really matter that the practices are COED,” Sparks said. “Everyone is pretty chill.”

Despite there being so much growth in women’s wrestling, there is no plan to add a female coach to Utica’s wrestling team any time soon.

“I have a hard enough time locking down an assistant coach as it is, so I don’t think we would be having a female coach at this time,” Davis said. “Maybe, if we have some female wrestlers that give it a shot in high school and want to coach later after they graduate, then that might be a way that we do eventually have a female coach.”

The addition of a girl’s division is overall a positive experience for everyone and gives girls more opportunities in the sport.

“I think it’s great. There has been a girl state tournament the past three seasons, it just wasn’t hosted by the MHSAA,” Davis said.

“However, it showed great success and that women’s wrestling is growing in our state. Maybe not our area, but definitely in our state.”

Girls swim team breaks records Keen qualifies for states, Michol named Coach of the Year RILEY DAVEY

REPORTER

In the team pool at Eisenhower High School, sophomore Niki Chen takes a breath in between strokes. photo by natalie garwood

The girls swim team was very successful this year, getting third place in divisions and breaking multiple records.

Abby Keen, Izzy Haewsky, Abby Goodwine, and Cordelia Kraus are the swimmers responsible for breaking the record. Keen broke the 100 free in 54.25 seconds, the 200 free in 1:57.79, and the 50 free in 25.18 seconds.

Haewsky broke the 100 breast in. Kraus, Keen, Goodwine, and Haewsky together broke the 200 medley relay record in 1:59.51 seconds.

The coach and students are very proud of their fellow swimmers and feel that they did a great job.

“They did an incredible job keeping the team motivated and working hard,” coach Joe Michol said.

Keen qualified for states, and broke her 100 yard free record for the third time, with a time of 53.98.

“It took lots of training,” Keen said. “It was pretty surreal.”

The members of the swim team are confident that they did their best and are proud of their accomplishments.

“I think we did good because we all worked very hard,” junior Marissa Escalona said.

Not only were the swimmers overjoyed that they managed to break these records, but they were also excited when their coach was recognized as Coach of the Year.

“I love Coach Joe; he is very sweet and kind and he always pushes us to our limits. He knows what we are good at and he knows what we can accomplish and he believes in all of us,” Escalona said. “He is like our friend, is very kind and funny and always has our back. We know he will help us whenever and with whatever.”

Michol is also very popular amongst students and staff.

“Coach Michol is certainly one in a million,” principal Thomas Lietz said. “We are extremely lucky to have him at Utica, where he’s built a sucessful program.”

Reflecting on the season, Michol chose to focus on his athletes.

“I am so proud of how hard the girls worked this season,” Michol said. “Their dedication, hard work and enthusiasm for the season paid off.”

VIEWPOINTS STUDENT VOICES AND OPINIONS

O N LI N E

PAGE 103VIEWPOINTS3ARROW3DECEMBER 9, 2021

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STAFF EDITORIAL

Self defence training more important than ever. R.A.D. training is a step in the right direction.

Our news staff members come from all sorts of differ- ly important for women, as women are often the victims ent backgrounds and have a wide array of differing opin- of sexual assault and rape. It empowers women and gives ions, but we can all agree on one thing: the Rape Aggres- them the ability to fight back instead of making them feel sor Defense Systems program should be introduced to defenseless and afraid.

Utica High School.

According to RAINN, one out of every six women in The Rape Aggression Defense Systems program, or the United States have been the victim of an attempted R.A.D. program, is a self-defense program offered to men, or completed rape, and 82% of juvenile rape victims are women, children, and seniors that teaches people differ- female, making these classes critical to women, especially ent strategies to use if they are in a situation where they teenage girls. We don’t think it’s right that women often need to fight back against an attacker. feel unsafe in public places and fear that things such as Officer Leslie Heisler of the this will happen, so introducing Shelby Township Police Departclasses like this will help women ment has started teaching R.A.D. fight back. classes to teenage girls, and our We think having these classes staff believes these classes should at Utica is a better idea than havbe introduced to Utica High SHOULD THE R.A.D. ing them only at places outside of School. school grounds, as it makes the PROGRAM BE Our staff thinks self-defense is classes more accessible to stuan extremely critical skill, especial- INTRODUCED TO UTICA? dents. Students could feel more ly in today’s world. Violence in our encouraged to go since the classschools has unfortunately become es take place somewhere theyr’e more common, and this has infamiliar with, rather at a place YES NO duced fear in many students that they have never been to before. would not know how to defend Plus, the classes will be with other themselves if they found themselves in a situation where students, and being with people you already know is less they would need to fight back. intimidating than being with strangers.

Many of our staff members feel strongly about self-de- Having it at school will also bring more attention to fense programs being introduced to Utica due to recent the classes. If it’s at school, more students will be talking events, such as the school shooting at Oxford High School about it. A class like this outside of school may not get on Nov. 30. Seeing events such as this in the news high- as much attention, as it’s not being promoted to the same lights the fact that no one is one hundred percent safe audience. from this happening to them, which further amplifies The R.A.D. program being introduced to Utica is an the importance of students being taught self-defense. We idea that every member of our staff supports for multiple want to be as prepared as possible if something like this different reasons. It’s important that we learn to defend were to happen to us. ourselves in every environment and situation we find our Parts of our staff believe that this program is especial- selves in, as we never know when we may need it.

ARROW STAFF VOTE

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ILLUSTRATION BY HANNAH LESNER

PERSPECTIVES

Should Shelby Twp. Police bring their upcoming R.A.D. self defense program to Utica High to train teen girls?

“Yes, I believe they should have a program for everyone so that students feel safer knowing they can defend themselves.”

“Yes, because people tend to get sex trafficked a lot and I believe everyone should know how to defend themselves in these situations.”

“Yes, I believe they should because women tend to be deemed weaker and programs like these can help women feel stronger and more in control.”

“I absolutely support tthe idea of Utica providing a R.A.D. self defense program. Teen girls should feel empowered in every way possible and the R.A.D. program allows that.”

“Yes, the R.A.D .program looked like it was great, and it would be a very useful skill to have.”

Braden Clark

Mia Lind

Chloe Larson

Lacie Smith

Bridget Jablonowski

SOPHOMORE

JUNIOR

SENIOR

TEACHER

STAFF

DECEMBER 9, 2021 4 ARROW 4 VIEWPOINT 4 PAGE 11

OPINION Christmas music. Is it time for holiday tunes?

It’s never too early.

Limiting it makes it special.

Christmas celebrations seem to begin earlier and earlier as the years go on. With this being said, it’s important to draw a line as to when too much is too much. For several reasons, this line should start at Jan. 1.

Christmas music brings nothing but joy into the hearts of any human being with a soul and a happy heart. Why must we limit the amount of joy one receives in a year?

This question is yet to be answered as the “Christmas haters” ignore this point in an attempt to spread more hatred into the world. This is an unacceptable truth of the matter and proves one big reason Christmas music should be optional year round.

Another reason why this music should be allowed year round is the personal preference of music for individual people. I for one will admit, more than occasionally I find myself listening to Frank Sinatra.

During this, several of his Christmas songs come on. When they do, I don’t skip them, because the old-fashioned style of music is still appealing to me.

ETHAN SMALE Often times, Christmas music has very EDITOR-IN-CHIEF catchy sounds to it, and people should be allowed to bop to the music whenever they please.

Lastly, the sheer thought of Christmas spirit should be enough reason for anyone to listen to this music whenever they want. Without Christmas spirit, the joy of the entire winter season is stripped from society. This being said, hyping up the season by listening to music early should almost be considered an obligation. The greater amount of people preparing themselves for the season ahead of time, the better the season will end up for everyone that celebrates it each year.

Christmas is by far the “most wonderful time of the year” and it needs to be celebrated as such. Failure to do so will prevent the holiday from getting the recognition it deserves, and create a downward spiral to the point in which Christmas is treated as if it is any other day of the year.

Christmas is a time of joy and celebration. People across the world, from different communities and lifestyles celebrate the famous holiday. When later in the year, the anticipation for the holiday season is lively for many.

This feeling of excitement and fun is special as it only occurs once a year. Having a birthday every day of the year can get boring quickly and loses why it’s special. This is the same for any holiday, especially Christmas. Celebrating Christmas too early or too often can really drain the life out of the holiday, even for other people.

Listening to Christmas music is one way to celebrate the holiday season. Though simple in practice, music can really affect the vibes we put off. Christmas music is a definitive way to spread increase holiday cheer. The problem is when people abuse this property and think they can listen to Christmas music whenever.

Have you ever been walking down the aisle in a supermarket a couple days after Halloween and you ask yourself, “Are they seriously playing Mariah AUSTIN LAMPHIER Carey already?”

REPORTER Similarly, imagine in early November, you are driving in your car and give music responsibilities to your friend in the passenger seat. They decide to put on “Winter Wonderland.” For me, it’s irritating and out of place. Typically in October and November, I’d like to not be reminded constantly of the oncoming cold later in the year.

People forget that Thanksgiving exists. Once Halloween ends, a lot of people completely brush over the holiday, put up a tree, hang lights on their house, and of course, listen to Christmas music. This messes up how the holiday season works and ruins what makes Christmas special. People need to realize that Christmas isn’t the only holiday during the year. The overabundance of playing Christmas music can lead to disinterest and probably a big reason on why many others really dislike the holiday and avoid having to deal with it.

READER RESPONSE

Response to ‘News staff publishes first online-only issue during COVID-19 school closure’

Response to ‘Staff vs. students music throughout their high school years’ I like listening to rap. One of my favorite rappers is Lil Skies.

Josh Miller, Senior

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,

Utica Arrow Newspaper

Editor In Chief Ethan Smale

@uhs_arrow

I’m definitely enjoying every little bit of it. It is a great website and a nice share. I want to thank you. Good job! You guys do a great blog and have some great content. Keep up the good work.

Okuse Marvellous, Online Reader

Contact information

This morning we traveled to see the projects @henryfordiiwoodworking students are completing. The first photo shows the board that is being built for country music star @ kennychesney. Look for more coverage in the Dec. 16 issue of the @ macombdaily.

by @kennychesney

Managing Editor Abby Williams Digital Editor Alex Schmidt

Sports Editor Tyler Watford Social Media Manager Gracie Wetherington

Copy Editor Marissa Barch

Photographer Natalie Garwood

Reporters John Adkins Austin Lamphier Juan Avalos Loriana Mannino Riley Davey Brooke Monarch Emily DeClark Demetri O’Neill Anthony Flowers Nevaeh Tanner Dylan Hadfield Victoria Viglione Adviser Stacy Smale

@UticaArrow

@UHSArrow

@uhs_arrow

Cover by Ethan Smale Photo by Natalie Garwood, Featuring senior Kaitlyn Tuttle

PAGE 123SPOTLIGHT3ARROW3DECEMBER 9, 2021

SPOTLIGHT

HIGHLIGHTING UNIQUE TALENTS & ACCOMPLISHMENTS

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

Coach Berry to the rescue

Two birds were spotted on the back fence of the school’s athletic fields during boys cross country practice. photo by megan bery

Parakeets perched on school fence safely captured touched beaks with her through the bars.”

After many failed attempts to capture the second bird over the next two hours, the sun What began as an ordinary cross country practice quickly turned into a mission for started to set. coach Megan Berry. While measuring out a route for a workout, Berry spotted a pair of “He flew up high in a tree and stopped chirping back and forth with her. We almost parakeets sitting on the ground, between the baseball dugout and the back fence behind gave up,” Berry said, “but I couldn’t stand the thought of leaving with only one and not the the school. other. I knew the temps that night would be dangerously cold, too.”

“They startled me at first because they abruptly flew up in the air

Finally, the bird was heard chirping in a different tree. in front of me when I rounded the corner, and it was such an unex “We moved the cage closer to the tree, set it on the ground, pected find,” Berry said. “They landed on the fence right next to me and put seed around it,” Berry said. “He flew down next to her cage and didn’t seem very scared of me at all. I knew right away that they and started eating, and we threw a sheet over it and got him, over were tropical birds and most likely someone’s pets who were either two hours after we captured her. Over four hours of total time spent released or had escaped. They looked out of place.” capturing them.”

The following day, after her team completed their workout, Ber When both birds were reunited in the cage, Berry and Peltier ry asked if anyone happened to see two vibrant birds, although she cheered, hugged, and started crying. assumed they were most likely gone.

“We agreed we were not going to leave,” Berry said, “until we “Actually,” sophomore Blake Jahn told Berry, “I did see a yellow had them both.” bird back there on one of the reps.”

Since the first time Berry posted about the birds on social me Berry ran back to the fence and found the pair sitting there. dia, several community members stepped in to help.

“I couldn’t believe it,” she said. “At that point, I knew I had to try

“The outpouring of support from the community was remarkto save them.” able,” Berry said. “Several people stopped by to check on us and On her way home, Berry called former student Julia Peltier. help out during the process and many people offered to help on “I am good friends with her mother as well, and they own several Facebook forums, too.” birds and she’s very good with handling them,” Berry said. “I called

Knowing she couldn’t keep the birds, Berry talked to Kee’s Pets her on my way home to see if they had an extra cage and food and if in Shelby Township ahead of time, and arranged a drop off. they were willing to help.”

“I immediately dropped them off right before they closed,” That night, Berry posted about the birds to local social media Berry said. “I cried when I dropped them off because I didn’t want groups, in hopes that the owners would know where there birds After four and a half hours of coaxing the birds, cross to let them go, but I have a cat at home that would have terrorized were. Knowing the parakeets wouldn’t survive on their own, Berry country coach Megan Berry was finally able to cap- them. Otherwise, I would’ve kept them.” ture the parakeets that had been outside for days.. also posted to find advice to capture the domestic birds the next day. photo by megan bery

Kees had a cage waiting for the parakeets and promised Berry “We played parakeet bird calls on our phones which seemed to that they would wait several weeks to make sure they were rehabilattract their attention. It took over two and a half hours, but Julia caught the first one while itated, and promised to keep them as a pair. they were foraging for food on the ground with a butterfly net.”

“It was imperative that they stay together,” Berry said. “They snuggled close in the car Berry and Peltier put the bird in the cage immediately. ride to the pet store. I can tell they are an imprinted pair and most likely survived because “The remarkable part was how the other bird kept flying near the cage and commu- they were together. I felt so good to save a few bird lives; it was totally worth the time and nicating with her,” Berry said. “He didn’t want to leave her. He sat on the cage and even effort.”

ETHAN SMALE

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF