Arrow 2022 Issue 4

MARCH 30, 20224Volume 924Issue 4

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

2021 CSPA Gold Medalist & MIPA Hall of Fame Inductee

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MR. CHIEFTAIN

Annual event raises 7k for charity.

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PAGE 2 3TABLE OF CONTENTS 3ARROW 3MARCH 30, 2022

tyler, the creator ethan smale photo

CONTENTS 4

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CONTAC T TRACING ENDS er COVID-19 tracing, As the health department takes ov nts. schools no longer quarantine stude TYLER, THE CREATOR ’s Arena gives VIP access to show at Little Caesar concert-goers a unique perspective.

N ON THE COVER: MR. CHIEFTAIfo the Macomb r 7k ng isi ra s, rn tu re t en ev ity ar Ch Charitable Foundation.

R TRACK SPEED CLUB PREPS ATHLETESspFO ted through the During wintry months, athletes rin halls to decrease their times.

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ACK HISTORY MON 11 BL shed the limits pu o wh le op pe k ac bl e th g tin ra leb Ce LL MLK, Jr. ART IN THE MAIN STAIRWE

tyler watford photo

during the push for civil rights.

CHECK THIS OUT

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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

MARCH 30, 20224ARROW4NEWS4PAGE 3

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

NHS initiates new members after COVID delay to doing whatever they need to achieve their goals. They must embody the core tenets of the National Honor SociThis year, the National Honor Society will be induct- ety. ing around 130 new members into the Florence Burk The National Honor Society is very difficult to become chapter of the organization. The event was held in the a member of. However, when one does become a memauditorium on March 23 with an estimated 500 people ber, there is a strong sense of accomplishment. attending. Inductions were originally “It felt really great to be acscheduled for January, but were postcepted into the National Honor Soponed due to a temporary mask manciety,” junior Olivia Czapski said. “I date as COVID-19 numbers rose. feel like a lot of my academic work Students who become members of paid off, especially when it got really the National Honor Society take their tough during COVID, and I didn’t education very seriously ,and becomfeel like pulling through sometimes. ing a member of the National Honor I am glad I about what I got out of it.”

Society is considered to be a tremenEven with the challenges that dous honor some people faced, individuals who “To be a member of National wanted to be in the National Honor Honor Society means that a student Society had to pull through and do upholds the four tenets of the orgawhat they had to do. nization, which include leadership, “I felt excited and energized scholarship, service, and character,” after i got accepted because I wanted Juliano Doda and Alyssia Johnson preNHS advisor Sarah Miller said. “These Senior to make a difference in my commupare to deliver roses to new National Honor students are dedicated to being active Society inductees. photo by marissa barch nity,” said senior Om Bidja. “I wish participants in their own education to continue making a difference and take the responsibility of serving their school and the from the experience I learn in National Honor Society.” greater community seriously.”

Individuals who join the National Honor Society are Students who wish to become members of the Nation- eager to support and help out their communities in any al Honor Society must give it their all and be dedicated way they can.

RILEY DAVEY

REPORTER

HOSA students compete at regional competition Senior Ellen Clark advances to international conference in June &

Ellen Clark said.

Out of the 10 Utica High school students to compete, Health Occupations Students of America, also known Ellen was able to win first place because of her hard work as HOSA, is an organization where students apply their in life skills. Ellen will now be going and competing at knowledge of medicine to prepare for a future career in the 2022 HOSA International Leadership Conference any health profession. this June in Nashville, Tennessee.

“It has challenged me to learn new skills outside the “I participated in an event called Health Education classroom and let me apply the where I taught fifth graders what seithings I am learning to real life scezures were, how to recognize the onset narios,” senior Caroline Bernardi of one, and how to care for one.” sesaid. “It is preparing me for a future nior Elizabeth Kozen said. She ended medical career, which is something up finishing in first place at her reI think is useful.” Caroline competgional competition. ed in a partner CPR/First Aid skill “We study for weeks and compete test and a timed individual multiple in different events to showcase how choice test. much we have learned. This year I “I did human growth developcompeted in the veterinary science diment and I studied the behavioral, vision, where I had to take a 60 quesmental, and physical growth of a hution quiz and a rigorous skill test,” man being from the womb to death,” senior Alexandra Massey said. “These junior Alison Zakens said. Alison’s skill tests challenge your ability to care hard work payed off because she Zoey Elrod, Lily Harris, Alexandra Massey, for an injured or ill animal.” ended up placing in the top 10 for Alaina Wasik, Chloe Larson, and Madalyn Sesi If you are thinking about pursuing a pose for a picture before leaving to compete. her event at regionals. career in the medical field, HOSA is a courtesy photo by chloe larson Alison plans on working in the great program to get involved in. You medical field and believes that the skills and information spend weeks on end perfecting your skills and making she learned from HOSA will prepare her for her future sure you know how to provide excellent patient care. Becareer. ing in this organization prepares you for your future em“Going out and competing helped me gain a lot of ployment and allows you to debate whether or not this is confidence in myself and in these competitions”, senior the field for you.

NEVAEH TANNER

REPORTER

MADALYN SESI

GUEST REPORTER

Matthew Hardin, Maia Suggs, Eva Troyanovich, Jackson Everaert, and Isabel Martens display some trophies following the band competition.

Solo Ensemble Wins photo by brett bays

Students participate virtually, in-person during one-day event KATRINA O’NEILL

REPORTER

During the weekend of Feb. 14, band members had the opportunity to participate virtually or in-person for a oneday band event in which participants were judged on being able to perform certain pieces.

“The festival gives out nine awards in each band classification (AA, A, B, C, D) based on school population,” principal Tom Lietz said. “Utica is AA for best soloist then first and second Runner-Up, and then same for Best Section and Best Band.”

Two students won in major solo categories.

“This weekend, our trombone section won second Runner-Up Best Section,” Lietz added, “and sophomore drummer Matt Hardin won Best Soloist.”

After receiving a high level in the local ensemble, it’s time to move to the next level.

“If a student receives a Division 1 rating, they are eligible for State Solo & Ensemble, where judging is more difficult and students performing solos must also memorize and perform scales on their wind instruments, or rudiments on drums,” band teacher Brett Bays said.

The Solo & Ensemble also featured performances from other students, such as: Mary Borus, Grant Harrison, Dan Olah, Bradley Suggs, Maia Suggs, Maria Turner, Ava Haithcock, Kalvin Hasenauer, Evan Martens, Elizabeth Kozen, Donnie Larsen, Andy Lasceski, Michael Greene, Grant Levin, Lauren McNair, Dan Waterstradt, and Bryce Harrison.

Winning one of the major categories in the Solo & Ensemble event is a big feat for any school in Michigan and is an even bigger feat for the band teachers and the students themselves, who both work extra hard to get the tone and scales correct.

Their hard work stand out is the fact that they rehearsed entirely by themselves and with no guidance.

“Each student practiced on their own.” Bays said. “No class time was used for the preparation because not all students participate since it is an optional event.”

The effort put in with every student who participated in the event is still being noticed. “In Utica’s history, we have won one trophy: 1991 first Runner-Up Best Soloist.” Lietz said. “Well done to those students and hats off to Mr. Bays.”

With the state finals coming up this month, the winners of the local round will be set to perform more difficult tasks in order to take another win.

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PAGE 4 3NEWS 3ARROW 3MARCH 30, 2022

County Health Department takes over contact tracing in schools said.

One reason is because of the large amount of students who have Over February break, the Macomb County Health Depart- been vaccinated. ment made adjustments to how people are traced and quarantined “I think that the virus has practically run its course and most when they come in contact with someone who tested positive for people in the school are vaccinated,” LaBrecque said, “so contact COVID-19. tracing isn’t much of a big deal anymore.”

Previously, anyone who came in contact with a person who testThe old guidelines also had a negative impact on some students’ ed positive would be individually quarantined, but were allowed to mental health. come back if they were asymptomatic and wore a mask.

“The old rules definitely were tough because you missed out Due to the new guidelines, however, individual students are on a lot of socialization that you would otherwise have at school,” no longer quarantined. Classrooms as a whole were notified that LaBrecque said. “I think that as long as people stay home when someone in their class tested positive, but now schools are no lon- they’re sick, eliminating contact tracing will be beneficial to menger required to manage contact tracing, as the Macomb County tal health.”

Health Department has taken over that role.

Students struggled to feel included and engaged when attendNot all students are fans of the new ing school virtually while in quaranguidelines, as they believe it’s potentine. tially putting students at risk.

“I felt very isolated while quaran“I think I’d prefer for people just to tined,” LaBrecque said, “and it made stay home even if they’re not showme pretty upset to be away from ing symptoms because it’d be safer,” friends.” sophomore Ani Quartuccio said, “esAttending school virtually wasn’t pecially for people who are immunoideal for some, and caused grades to compromised.” slip.

These students wish that more re“Many teachers had very confusstrictions were still put in place.

Cases rise after winter break and a temporary mask mandate is put ing rules,” LaBrecque said, “and still “Honestly, I would require masks in place to help stop the spread. “During the outbreak, wearing a held you up to the same standards of for people who are contact traced,” mask and social distancing was hard because of the boundaries it timing and quality of work if you were Quartuccio said. “I feel like it’d be a set to talking to people,” sophomore Brent Cole said. “Now that the quarantined.” mandate has died down, a lot it’s a lot better for students’ social lot safer for everyone else.”

Being in quarantine also didn’t prohealth.” The mask mandate was put in place on Jan. 12, 2022 until Another reason students dis- Jan. 25 of 2022. photo by natalie garwood vide the same classroom experience. agree with the decision is because “Not all of my teachers provided COVID-19 hasn’t gone away and is still a threat.

Teams meetings for quarantined students,” LaBrecque said. “Only “I think the new COVID-19 protocols are less effective,” soph- one or two teachers tried to include me in the class, and even then, omore Daniel Ndoka said. “The previous mandate was a lot more it wasn’t the same because a lot of work is based upon classroom effective. COVID is still a thing, and people who have all their vac- discussion amongst peers.” cines can still catch and spread COVID.” Overall, students have varying opinions regarding what to do The guidelines also don’t take into account the amount of peo- about the pandemic moving forward. ple that catch COVID-19 but are asymptomatic.

“People who don’t like the new protocols must realize that we “Asymptomatic people aren’t being taken as seriously with the truly have done all we can,” LaBrecque said, “and at this point it’s new protocols,” Quartuccio said. “It can still be passed on to oth- best to start working toward normalcy.” ers, even if the person who tests positive shows no symptoms.”

“More people could get sick, and that would mean a spread is Other students don’t share the same views and are glad that the more likely to happen again,” Quartuccio said. “Just because reold contact tracing guidelines have been discontinued. strictions are being lifted doesn’t mean we should take less precau“I don’t think it should be a problem,” junior Sophia LaBrecque tions. The pandemic won’t just disappear unless we do better.”

ABBY WILLIAMS

MANAGING EDITOR

As of Feb. 25, 2022...

CDC not requiring masks in schools Individual quarantine not in effect

QUARANTINE UPDATES ALEX SCHMIDT

DIGITAL EDITOR

On Friday, Feb. 25, the CDC established new guidelines for wearing masks. This decision was based on community-level hospital data and new cases. The CDC is no longer recommending schools to wear masks unless the school is at the highest level under the new recommendations.

There are three levels: green, yellow, and orange. Only the people living in counties considered orange will be recommended to mask up to keep everyone safe. People with a positive test or exposure to someone with COVID-19 should wear a mask no matter what their levels are just to be safe.

“This reflects a new framework focused on protecting people at substantial risk of severe illness and preventing hospitals and healthcare systems from being overwhelmed,” Dr. Rochelle Walensky said.

In Michigan, 17 counties are at the highest level. People need to communicate with the organizations that serve people who are variable or at substantial risk for severe disease to ensure they know how to get rapid testing. The case numbers are decreasing in Michigan. The state reported a weekly average of 1,293 new, confirmed cases. This is the lowest it has been since August.

“We should all keep in mind that some people may choose to wear a mask at any time based on personal preference. And importantly, people who wear high-quality masks are well-protected even if others around (them) are not masking,” Dr. Greta Massetti said.

This is the lowest average COVID-19 cases since August. The worst of the Omicron variant has passed. Hopefully, cases will eventually be so low that patients will not have to be tested for COVID-19. Keep your friends and family safe.

Schools no longer managt tracing County notifies close contacts MLIVE MICHIGAN LOCAL NEWS SOURCE

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MARCH 30, 20224ARROW4FEATURE4PAGE 5

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#accepted Seniors receive success tees to display post-graduation plans MADISON RATCLIFF

REPORTER

Tyler, the Creator enters the concert inside his Rolls Royce Wraith and begins to sing his first song. photo by ethan smale

CALL ME IF YOU GET LOST

VIP access to Tyler, the Creator show offered swag and unique experience, as performances captivate crowds at Little Caesar’s Arena had two staircases to get to the second floor of the mansion during his performances.

The night of Tyler, the Creator’s tour stop was arguably Everyone started cheering louder than I had heard for the greatest night of my entire life. anyone else the entire concert.

In order to have the best experience possible, my best He then stepped out of the car and continued to sing friend and I decided to purchase VIP tickets to this con- his next song. cert. We didn’t regret this decision for a second.

The most interesting part of Tyler’s concerts is the VIP access gave us early access to everything at the dedication that his fans have to his music. I didn’t see a concert. single person, myself included, that didn’t know all the We also had an easier opportunity to get to the front words to his entire album. Even when he began to sing row of the concert as VIP ticket holders. some of the songs from his earliest albums, about 90% of Once we got to our position us knew the words to his songs. on the floor, it quickly packed toThe craziest parts of the congether and everyone was getting cert happened when Tyler sang pushed all around by people trysongs that had heavy bass drops. ing to get closer to the front. This Everyone got ready for the beat to was happening before the first drop, and when it did, Tyler was song had even started to play. surrounded by an explosion of In order to create lots of hype flames on the stage. around his concert, while simultaHalfway through the show, neously bringing up and coming Tyler got onto a wooden boat, and rappers more popularity, Tyler drove it across the middle of the had three different artists perform stadium. This was one of the most before he finally would perform unique things I’ve ever seen and himself. These artists were Teezo Tyler rides a wooden boat through the crowd and cross- it just added more to the aesthetes the stadium while singing a song. photo by ethan smale Touchdown, Vince Staples, and ic that Tyler was going for at this Kali Uchis. concert.

All of these artists did a great job performing, and Once he crossed the stage, he landed on a second stage made sure to take advantage of the opportunity. They all across the stadium. It was filled with tall, dry grass, and had creative different sets for their performances, which he performed mostly older songs on that stage. pertained to their music and the themes they surrounded Eventually, he returned to the original stage he started it with. on by boat again, and played some of his most popular Finally, after hours of opening acts, Tyler began the act classics. that everyone was waiting for.

The concert was a great experience and will likely be It began with a pastel green 1930 Rolls Royce Wraith the best concert I will ever go to. I don’t suspect I will have being lifted through the floor out onto the main stage, a better night than that one for years to come. I hope I can and Tyler was singing from inside of it. go to another one of his concerts in the future, as he is my The main stage looked like a light blue mansion, that favorite artist.

ETHAN SMALE

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

As principal Tom Lietz rolls into the classroom with his cart full of tees and a clip board, seniors sit up with excitement, waiting to see who will be next to receive a “U SUCCESS” shirt with #accepted printed underneath.

The shirts have been a hit with seniors, and being presented with one from Lietz is both an honor and the mark of a new milestone.

When Lietz saw that Armada High School was doing something similar, he thought it was a great idea and wanted to introduce the new tradition.

He worked with student council and other seniors to decide on the design, and exactly what should be printed on the shirts.

“I wanted the #accepted and the word success in there. We wanted Utica branding, too, and got it all,” Lietz said. “I want our seniors to been seen as people taking that next step in their lives.”

According to Lietz, the shirts cost a minimal amount, and to him, every penny is worth it to help celeIn his first hour class, senior Ashton Hill is brate post-secondary presented with a SUCCESS shirt by principal goals.

Tom Lietz. Hill will attend Central Michigan In order to receive University next year. photo by ethan smale a shirt, seniors visit uticahigh.org, and click on “Submit a UHS #accepted form” under the “How do I” tab. Unsure of how many seniots would participate, a limited number of shirts were initially ordered.

Due to overwhelming popularity, however, more shirts needed to be ordered to meet demand.

“I wanted to show off that I was admitted to Macomb,” senior Natalie Weir said. “I wanted to show off my accomplishments.”

Senior Ashlynn Gazaway received her shirt, representing her culinary aspirations.

“I chose to go to another type of schooling because of the interests I have for baking and cooking,” Gazaway said. “It has always been the part of my life that held my relationship with my nana strong.”

Senior Mary Borus has not received her shirt yet, but is excited for her turn.

“I wanted memories of senior year.” Borus said.

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PAGE 63COVER STORY3ARROW3MARCH 30, 2022

Auditorium fills with laughter & applause for unique talents

Mr. Chieftain Gavin Zybtowski

C Senior Grant Freestone

WINNERS

Mr. Popular Jackey DeRosa

Mr. Charity Zach Powrozek

Mr. Personality Kevin Kekic

With the help of their partners, contestants answered trivia questions to test their knowledge of Utica facts. Questions ranged from which staff member had been teaching the longest, to which staff member was formerly in the Utica marching band.

7k

FOR CHARITY

OPENING ACT

Q&A

Mr. Chieftain contestants opened up the event with a dance, and teacher Mark Moehlig was the night’s emcee.

Board member Julie Wright was the speaker for the Macomb Charitable Foundation. The Macomb Charitable foundation works to help children living at or below the poverty level in Macomb County. “I believe that the fundraiser went exceptionally well,” event coordinator and teacher Erin Derk said.

“We raised more money than ever.”

photos by natalie garwood design by victoria viglione content by austin lamphier & victoria viglione

PAGEANT WALK

Spiderman (senior Sandro Van Simaeys) faces off against Green Goblin (senior Ethan Smale)

Mr. Chieftain MARCH 30, 20224ARROW4COVER STORY4PAGE 7

Senior Antonio Capelj

Senior Jackey DeRosa

Senior Akram Askoul (singing about teacher Kyle Rojeski)

Charity event raises 7k for Macomb Charitable Foundation

Senior Anthony Bleck dresses as Santa for a donut-eating contest against senior Ayden Salmo.

AUSTIN LAMPHIER

REPORTER

Utica High School held the Mr. Chieftain annual event on Feb. 16. After a yearlong hiatus due to COVID-19 restrictions, the memorable pageant returned for the 2021-2022 school year.

The event is run by the high school, but all proceeds goes toward the Macomb Charitable Foundation, an organization that helps impoverished children and their families. It helps with providing financial assistance to help children meet their basic needs.

Utica’s participation with the charity is with the pageant. Ways of raising money for the organization were buying tickets for the event, buying Mr. Chieftain t-shirts, or even just donating. For a few weeks prior to the event, each Mr. Chieftain contestant and their coach sold shirts with a color specifically to them, so that other students would buy a shirt in support for that nominee. It becomes almost like a competition for all of the contestants to raise the most money and sell the most t-shirts.

Teacher Erin Derk, the organizer of the event, was proud of how the whole pageant played out.

“The total money donated to Macomb Charitable Foundation was $7,518, the largest donation ever,” Derk said. “The contestants and coaches were dedicated and enthusiastic. Mr. Moehlig once again kept the show going and now has a fan club.

Mr. Kaczmarcyk graciously gave up time in the auditorium and supported us in every way. His crew made sure the sound and lights were spot on.”

Mr. Chieftain returning for this year shows the gradual return of normality for both the students and teachers that was long awaited since the pandemic. Most people will appreciate the comeback of the well-liked pageant.

“It’s kind of a goofy, fun tradition,” principal Tom Lietz said. “I think it’s a chance for kids to let off some slack. I think this year is fun because it’s kind of a return to some sense of normalcy, which is great, because it’s an activity that in one form or another has been around for a while. It’s a fun way for the students to get a laugh and enjoy some goofy behavior and recognize some skills they didn’t know were there.”

Senior Kevin Kekic serenades teacher Andrea Solomon

Seniors Zach Powrozek & Gavin Zbytowski

MEET THE CONTESTANTS & THEIR PARTNERS Jackey DeRosa (with Hannah DuPuis), Zach Powrozek (with Sophia Meguid), Akram Askoul (with Madison Bajis), Kevin Kekic (with Alyssia Johnson), Antonio Capelj (with Makayla Newcomb), Grant Freestone (with Jena Theiss), Sandro Van Simaeys (with Alexis Alore), Gavin Zbytowski (with Mya Shaba), and Anthony Bleck (with Marissa Barch).

PAGE 8 3FEATURE 3ARROW 3MARCH 30, 2022

Campaign designated to raise awareness for those with rare conditions, like me

ABBY WILLIAMS

MANAGING EDITOR

A week after I was born, I was diagnosed with a conditioned called Phenylketonuria, or PKU, and it meant my life would be a bit different from everyone else. I wouldn’t be able to eat meat or larger amounts of dairy, nuts, fish, or eggs because of how toxic the protein was to my brain. I’d have to stay on that diet for life in order to protect my brain from debilitating side effects, and I would have to monitor everything I eat in order to ensure I wasn’t eating more than ten grams of protein every day.

My blood is constantly being drawn in order to monitor the amount of protein in my bloodstream (which I do not appreciate thanks to my fear of needles), restaurants are a pain since it’s a hit or miss if I’ll be able to eat something there, and the worst one in my opinion: I’ve never met someone else with my disorder.

I didn’t understand my condition too well when I was younger. All I knew was that I wasn’t able to eat most of the foods “normal” kids can, and they didn’t have to constantly check nutrition labels like I had to.

As I got older, I discovered that not only were there other kids like me, but there were entire communities for people dealing with conditions like I was and their families.

One of those communities was the group of people behind Rare Disease Day. On Feb. 28, people of all ages from around the globe celebrated Rare Disease Day 2022, a campaign designated to raise awareness for people with rare conditions.

“Rare Disease Day was started in 2008 by Eurodis, which is a non-governmental organization representing rare disease organizations in Europe,” digital communications intern Emily Manock said, “as well as 65 national alliance patient organization partners.”

Rare Disease Day aims to shed light on rare conditions.

“Our main goal is to raise awareness for those living with rare diseases so as to achieve equity in social opportunity, health care, and access to diagnosis and therapies for people living with a rare disease,” Manock said. “By focusing on just one day, the 28th/29th, it can act as a focal point for all our advocacy work, allowing us to work more effectively.”

Awareness and a strong sense of support and community are extremely important for people like me. Making people more aware of these conditions can greatly help people with rare diseases in many ways.

People can often be greatly judgmental of things that are different or that they don’t understand, which is a major concern at our age. People affected by all sorts of rare conditions, visible or not, have been subjected to judgment and bullying solely for being “different”.

Everyone wants to feel like they belong, and people our age are often concerned about “fitting in” and not doing/being anything out of the ordinary so that they’ll be just like everyone else.

But people with rarer conditions don’t always have the luxury of being able to blend in with everyone else - there will always be a situation where people will bombard us with questions and judgment due to our condition being brought up or noticed by others. I know I’ve had multiple instances where I’ve been questioned relentlessly, especially when I was younger, on why I was getting “special treatment” because I was eating something different than everyone else.

Shedding light on people affected by rare diseases and their experiences greatly benefits both the people with conditions themselves as well as everyone around them. Having the support of friends and family is so incredibly important to people like me, and learning to be

more understanding and nonjudgmental is a great trait for anyone to have.

“It is important to bring awareness to lesser known diseases because those living with them face significant challenges in both the medical and social spheres,” Manock said.

“Equally, as a result of said rarity, people are less likely to personally know someone with a certain rare disease.”

Aside from awareness, Rare Disease Day works towards achieving medical equity for people with rare conditions.

Medical care can be extremely expensive, especially for people struggling with a disease that isn’t well known. Some patients also might not have many options when it comes to treatment plans. For example, only two medications for my condition exist. I was not a responder to the first medication, and the second medication is only for people above the age of 18.

I was extremely lucky that I was put on the PKU diet as soon as my parents learned I had PKU, but others don’t have that same opportunity. People with rare conditions shouldn’t be worried about being able to afford treatments that they depend on to thrive, or in some cases, simply stay alive. Advocating for medical equity is critical to the wellness of people living with rare diseases and would help work towards finding cures and making diagnoses and treatment easier to get.

Rare Disease Day hosts different activities to help bring awareness.

One of the activities was the Global Chain of Lights, where people were asked to illuminate their homes or offices with blue, pink, purple, and green colored lights to show solidarity for Rare Disease Day. Other activities include conferences such as the Mosa Conference, an international annual conference where biomedical students present their research to scientists and doctors.

This year’s Mosa Conference theme is rare diseases being brought to light in the scientific world, which will bring more attention to people struggling with rare conditions. Walks for @RAREDISEASEDAY TWITTER awareness are also common, which both bring awareness and raise money for rare conditions.

Educating younger people about rare diseases is important to achieving awareness and equity. People in the younger generations will eventually be future doctors and lawmakers, and keeping them in the loop about the importance of rare disease awareness will benefit us in the future.

You don’t need to be a biomedical student or live near a rare disease walk to get involved, though. There are many different options available to students that want to support the rare disease community, one of which is participating in Rare Disease Day’s Global Chain of Lights.

“High schoolers can take part in Rare Disease Day by lighting up for rare using our home illuminations kit,” Manock said, “or encouraging institutions near them to light up for rare.”

Another option is doing what teens do best - using social media.

“Sharing this on social media would also be really helpful for spreading the word of Rare Disease Day,” Manock said. “We have also had some great success with bake sales this year, which you can check out on our socials.”

If you’re interested, check out Rare Disease Day’s website at www.rarediseaseday.org, or follow them on Instagram, @rarediseasedayofficial for ways to get involved with advocacy and showing support.

Rare Disease Day is extremely important to me and the other 300 million people worldwide living with a rare condition. We’re a strong community that will keep pushing for equity and awareness, all while supporting each other through everything.

MARCH 30, 20224ARROW4SPORTS4PAGE 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

Indoor track, speed club improve times goal. Every person in front of Owen is just another goal to overcome.

To join this club you don’t have to view the club as your goal; your goal can be anything.

Is there a sport you play? Something that you need to train for? Maybe it’s a run, maybe However, this is something you could view as training or something to do to improve it’s a team that you want to be number one in. Whatever the reason, it’ll more than likely yourself for whatever goal you do have.

Sports have many benefits for students, an opportunity to stay healthy, and it can also take work to do. Luckily, Utica offers just the thing: Indoor Track and Speed Club. lead to scholarships.

“I do it to help prepare,” sophomore Tyler Watford said, “for track and football.”

“I’m in the club to get faster,” sophomore Brent Cole said.

For the students in sports of some kind this can especially “But also to train to get a scholarship.” Through determinahelp you. However, this does not mean that it would only be tion anything you start out to do today can be done by tobeneficial to people in sports. morrow.

“Anyone can participate,” sophomore Tyler Watford said.

This club may not be a big group of people however it’s a Even if you have nothing to train for, staying physically active fantastic space and has many great people in it. The club itself has numerous health benefits. It can also help with your rungives many opportunities to make friends. ning ability.

Stamina is sometimes looked over, forgotten, not made a “It helps to get full strides down for running,” sophomore priority, whatever it may be. But going through this commitOwen Oswald said, “and it also helps to loosen you up.” So ment would allow you to enhance your stamina among other outside of the health benefits it can also help form and perforthings. mance in sports.

This club’s only goal is get you more prepared for whatever If you want somewhere to meet people and make friends you choose to do next. If you want to be healthy, physically then this club may be the place for you. Do you want an enviready for a sport, or whatever it is, this club can only help. ronment where you can improve yourself while also making “I would encourage underclassmen to join this club, eslasting relationships? pecially if they’re in sports,” senior Aaron Thielen said. “It is “It’s very fun and you get to meet new people,” sophomore extremely helpful for staying conditioned and to become fastJadyn McBain said. “I met a ton of new people.” So if you’re less interested in sports and more interested in meeting peo- The image above shows the individual rankings of those who have er, which is helpful for sports like football, soccer, basketball, and track.” ple this is still a good option for you. been participating in the club. courtesy coach chris scott Athletes that have been participating are happy with the Some people don’t like sports not because of how good or results they’re seeing. bad they are at them, but because sometimes it’s hard to not “My speed has improved pretty steadily since the start of speed club till the end,” senior lose motivation. But there are ways that you can maintain your motivation.

“A way I motivate myself,” sophomore Owen Oswald said, “is trying to catch everyone Aaron Thielen said. “I think I lost around 0.15-0.2 off my 40 time, which is a pretty good in front of me.” Owen just focuses on passing whoever is in front of him, his motivation improvement.”

Anyone interested in participating should contact Coach Chris Scott for details. comes from passing them. Anything can be your motivation and anything can be your

JOHN ADKINS

REPORTER

‘Cheerleaders, you may take the floor’ Cheer teams travel to compete around the region EMILY DECLARK

REPORTER

Cheerleader Madeline Nessy hits the move on the mat during competition. photo by george spiteri

Cheerleading has by now earned its Michigan High School Athletic Association’s title as a competitive sport. Many girls take years of gymnastics in hopes of being on a great team one day. Once they earn their spot, they practice for countless hours on their own, and then even more when they meet for practice.

Last month, the JV and varsity teams traveled to Avondale High to compete, and JV finished in first place.

Competition day is always busy for the athletes.

“We normally come to school,” sophomore Carly Sumner said, “and everybody gets ready and does their hair and stuff.

And then we go on the bus and play music.”

Sometimes, however, the team preps once they arrive at the competition site.

“We all meet up here [at Utica], we mess around a little bit, then we get on the bus and warm up there and get ready there,” sophomore Rachael Mulvaine said. “We warm up in-between rounds. Twenty minutes, then ten minutes, so about 30 minutes total.”

There is a lot involved for the girls during warm-ups, which sometimes changes, depending on the venue.

“When we get there every team is warming up, but for districts it’s a bit different,” Sumner said. “They introduce every

team on the mat when usually they just say your name and block off. We go to the back and warm up each round and sometimes you can watch the other teams; it just depends on when you’re going.”

Every competition has rounds, where the teams are scored on various aspects of their sport. While one round is completely about timing and moves, another includes stunting and how well they are performed. The team has some traditions they like to do before competitions.

“We do certain chants before we perform,” Sumner said.

“The seniors do a tribe call. It’s a fun thing to get us ready to go.”

The team enjoys their traditions.

“We usually bring a speaker to all of our competitions,” she said. “And then for varsity they have a little stuffed animal all the teams bring. Before we find out what place we got we sit in a circle and all hold hands.”

Seniors leaving the program have witnessed many changes.

“Everything around me has been nonstop changing through my high school years, but the one thing that has always been a constant was cheer,” senior Marissa Barch said.

“Cheer has had many ups and downs for me through my high school years, but at the end of the day I enjoyed all of it and am going to miss cheering with all the girls and our locker room talks and jam sessions on the bus.”

VIEWPOINTS STUDENT VOICES AND OPINIONS

O N LI N E

PAGE 103VIEWPOINTS3ARROW3MARCH 30, 2022

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Contact tracing. Some say it helps with mental health, others say it’s a step in the wrong direction.

The Macomb County Health Department made the drop in motivation for quarantined students, and the condecision to stop contact tracing at schools, and our staff is stant isolation and distractions caused by a poor learning slightly divided on whether we agree with it or not. environment made students feel like every day was the Most of our staff is in favor of no more contact tracing same, and they had nothing to look forward to while in and individual quarantine. quarantine.

Previously, when a student came in contact with someDespite this, a small portion of our staff liked the preone who tested positive for COVID-19, they would be in- vious guidelines better and don’t think the new rules will dividually notified and sent home, regardless of wheth- be as affective in stopping the spread. er they were showing symptoms or not. Lots of our staff Now, if a student tests positive for COVD-19, their disagreed with this and believe that it was unnecessarily entire classroom will be notified and no one is forced sending home kids that weren’t to quarantine, only asked to stay sick. home if they begin to show sympMost of our staff likes the new toms of COVID-19. guidelines because the Omicron One major reason that some variant is not as severe as othof our staff prefers the old guideer variants, meaning it shouldn’t DO YOU AGREE WITH lines is because the new rules require such intense protocols. CONTACT TRACING don’t take asymptomatic people Despite being more contagious, into account. Not everyone who people who contract the Omicron STOPPING IN SCHOOL? catches COVID-19 presents with variant often don’t show any severe symptoms, and people who don’t symptoms, if any at all. show symptoms can spread it just Another reason a majority of as easily as people who do show YES NO our staff prefers the old guidelines symptoms. With these new guideis because they believe constant lines, asymptomatic people pose quarantining was detrimental to students’ mental health. the risk of infecting others due to the lack of quarantining.

Being isolated all day made students feel like they were A large portion of the student body is vaccinated, but trapped and a lot of students prefer in person learning, that isn’t a significant enough precaution in the eyes of especially due to the interaction aspect. some of our staff. People who are vaccinated can still catch They believe that students’ grades and motivation also and spread COVID-19, so they believe we shouldn’t leave began to slip while in quarantine. Many members of our everything up to vaccines and implement other precaustaff say that some of their teachers did not provide Teams tions. meetings for their quarantined students, and some stuThe debate between our staff seems to be between pridents felt like they were left to “teach themselves.” oritizing mental health or physical health. We all hope Home is not a suitable learning environment for many that our communities can make a decision that keeps kids, as there are many more distractions than there would people safe while also protecting the mental health and be at school. Most of our staff believes that this caused a stability of people affected by intense quarantine rules.

ARROW STAFF VOTE

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ILLUSTRATION BY HANNAH LESNER

PERSPECTIVES

Do you agree with the Macomb County Health Department’s decision to stop contact tracing in schools?

“I do agree; it helps me with wrestling and I do not need to worry about focus about getting pulled out “

“I agree, because I don’t have to get called out of school anymore and don’t have to worry about missing class.”

“Yes, I do agree with stopping contact tracing in schools because it caused a lot of people to miss school often due to the close contact when it wasn’t always needed.

“Stopping contact tracing in schools is beneficial to students because it allows for attendance to improve.

I’m happy to see my students every day!”

“I do not agree or disagree, I just follow the rules that are put in place and believe that their decisions are based off science and I am going to listen to that.”

Hunter Thompson

Gracelynn Dickow

Jenna Clinard

Suzanne Greenfield

Tom Lietz

SOPHOMORE

JUNIOR

SENIOR

TEACHER

PRINCIPAL

MARCH 30, 2022 4 ARROW 4 VIEWPOINT 4 PAGE 11

OPINION TYLER WATFORD, REPORTER

Black History Month. Celebrate the black people who pushed the limits during the push for civil rights.

Black History Month: impactful, essential, celebratory.

From Feb. 1 to March 1, we as a country celebrate the black people who pushed the limits during the push for civil rights.

Black History Month represents the legacy of the individuals who marched against the stereotype, breaking the mold that white people pressed onto them for years, as well as those who were part of the opposite color but turned against their own “creed” to join the fight for equality.

This month is meaningful to black families who understand their ancestors and the past of their culture.

I’ve even learned from my elders about how life was like when they were young and growing up and what they have gone through.

Learning about others’ problems and struggles provides a different outlook on a situation and changes how you will react or act to it.

Many black parents/adults have a lot of knowledge to provide to the black youth through their experiences.

“Some white kid called my daughter up and starting screaming racist comments into the phone,” my aunt Lynette Fleming said, “and I just went off on him.”

Black History Month is great, but it shouldn’t be just a month where we show appreciation for black people.

There shouldn’t be a single month where we are waiting for the mic to be passed around, where we wait for February to show appreciation.

A month should just be everyday life; we should show appreciation and respect every day, and it needs to be talked about because of its impact.

There shouldn’t be a month where it is finally in the headlines and the topic of everyones’ page.

Every big company changes their whole image for a month, then reverts back to what they were like before.

This is for any and all other holidays that only span a

month or even the ones that are only single-day events.

All these should be a known thing that are recognized and talked about yearly.

Having these be just a month is just a lazy solution for people to say they “appreciate the history.”

It is a holiday and that’s great, but this is the only time black history is talked about and publicized nationally.

Once the month is over we turn back to normal, going back to our human form when the moon isn’t out just like werewolves.

It’s crazy to think how Black History Month has changed with the generations with the black youth. For this month many were TikToks created.

The celeration of the people, their culture, and their history is a celebration of my people, my history, and my culture.

Many of these TikToks had brought more awareness to the topic without people really thinking about it.

“After posting these people treated me differently,” sophomore Kailyn Spencer said. “They started treating me like a black woman.”

There are endless videos on social media of black teens taking a different approach to spread awareness, getting viewers to chuckle.

To me, Black History Month is highly important. It is definitely one of my favorite months of the year, sitting behind April and December.

The celebration of the people, their culture, and their history, is a celebration of my people, my history, and my culture.

READER RESPONSE

Response to ‘Teacher Steven Domke retires, reflects on long career’ A favorite teacher of mine, he inspired me to apply to West Point after learning about the Civil War. I graduated from Stevenson in 1988, West Point in 1993, and served 6 years as an officer in the U.S. Army.

Thank you so much for your inspired and motivated dedication!!!

Doug Peplowski, Online Reader

In reply to Doug Peplowski Doug, thank you for your most kind words. I loved teaching and always hoped my passion for our nation and its past would inspire others. It swells my heart with hope for our future when I think of young people like you. Bless you for your kindness and I pray you and yours are happy, safe and successful.

Steven Domke, Online Reader & Retired UHS Educator

Response to ‘Teenage Dating’ I really appreciate this post. I have been looking all over for this! Thank goodness I found it on Bing. You have made my day! Thx again.

Joseph Donahue, Online Reader

Contact information

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UHS Arrow Newspaper

Editor In Chief Ethan Smale

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Arrow Newspaper @UticaArrow

ALUMNI UPDATE: Chef Justin Groom to appear on Food Network’s ‘Chopped’

Nikki Ashley: So proud of you, Justin!!

Cannot wait to see it!

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Congratulations Justin!

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• 4,460 people reached; 22 shares Shared by Utica High School: Pretty cool Utica Alum story!

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Cover by Ethan Smale Photo by Natalie Garwood, featuring Mr. Chieftain contestants

PAGE 123SPOTLIGHT3ARROW3MARCH 30, 2022

SPOTLIGHT

HIGHLIGHTING UNIQUE TALENTS & ACCOMPLISHMENTS

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

Once a Titan, Hines is now a Chieftain

Former student teacher returns to Utica, joining the staff which makes his all-in attitude pretty awesome,” Lietz said. “Mr. Hines is a great staff member and mentor. He’s got a lot of tools in his tool box and we are just really excited to have U.S. history and chemistry teacher Ryan Hines has joined the Utica family. After coach- him.” ing and student teaching for Utica, Hines is excited to have finally officially joined the Not only is the staff excited to welcome Mr. Hines, but the student body finds him to be Utica staff. a great fit for the position, as well.

Although he attended Stevenson as a student and began his coaching career as a Titan, “I like him. I feel like he is a good teacher,” sophomore Madelyn Carrier said. “He came Hines is dedicated to Utica and has been for quite some time. and he fit right in.”

“I started coaching at Stevenson and I played football at Stevenson. Once I started Sophomore Samantha LoCricchio agrees. coaching, that’s when I knew I wanted to teach. A lot of the guys I coached with and “He honestly is really good,” LoCricchio said. “I expected him as a new teacher to be coached me ended up coming to Utica to coach,” Hines said. new to everything, but he actually fit in perfectly. He teaches “So I came to Utica to coach football and I loved it here. I like he’s been teaching here for years.” student taught here and loved it, then long termed and loved Sophomore Danie Boyd believes Hines is a great fit. it. Then I knew Utica was the place I wanted to be teaching.”

“I thought he was really chill,” Boyd said. “He’s pretty easy Since he has been coaching football at Utica, Hines had an going.” advantage to adjusting and bonding with students because he Since Hines is a 2013 Stevenson graduate, he is still pretty had already been coaching and knew many of them. familiar with the high school setting. He had similar interests “I think coaching really gets you involved with the kids and experiences as his students now. more so than just being in the classroom. You can make better “My favorite high school memory must be the summer relationships with them,” Hines said. “I think coaching and conditioning camps,” Hines said. “While it was hard during being involved in school activities, like I coached track, basit, I remember being with my friends and all of us working ketball and football for a few years, really helps you get imtoward our goals. It made my friendships stronger with those mersed in the culture, get to know kids, and make you feel guys and built lasting relationships with both my friends and more a part of the school.” former coaches.”

Another advantage Hines had starting at Utica is having Like every student, Hines had a favorite teacher in high student taught, so he already got to know the other teachers school who really helped and inspired him. and staff members.

“Mr. Lopo. He had a different style that was fun and invit“I feel very welcomed, I’ve known a lot of the teachers here ing to all the students,” Hines said. “He made learning fun and for a few years and they’re all great,” Hines said. “I love being engaging.” here. It is the place I wanted to be for sure, since student teachWhen finding a career, it is best to be passionate about it. ing and even before. I am very excited to be here.”

For Hines, he was always passionate about teaching.

The Utica staff is just as excited to have Hines in the Utica During his second hour U.S. History class, teacher Ryan Hines Ex“I have always loved history and took a great interest in it plains the civil rights movement and its impact with sophomore Ma- in high school,” Hines said. “I plan on being at Utica for I long family as Hines is to be here.

“I am excited to have him in the building. I have known Mr. rina VanSickle. photo by natalie garwood time. I would love to continue teaching history and chemistry.”

Hines for about four or five years. He student taught at Utica Even when you are passionate about what you do for a caHigh School with Mr. Drobnich and Mr. Wessel. He also worked here as a football coach reer, it can sometimes be hard to get a start. Hines was grateful for the opportunity to start and did conditioning and other programs,” principal Thomas Lietz said. “He was at a lot out as a student teacher. of games and he is pretty dedicated to Utica High, so we are happy to be able to have him.”

“Being able to student teach at Utica was an important moment for me,” Hines said. “I Finding the right person to fit for a position and the school’s environment can be a learned a lot while student teaching and had two great mentor teachers in Mr. Wessel and challenge.

Mr. Drobnich. They taught me a lot, and it means a lot to me.”

“We had to find the right fit. It has to be the right person for the right position, so we Another big part of Hines’ career and role here at Utica is coaching. are grateful to have him,” Lietz said. “I want all-in, and the nice part is before Mr. Hines “After high school I decided not play football in college. I was offered a spot on the became a teacher, he was already all-in. I was very proud of him when we interviewed him. coaching staff at Stevenson and took it,” Hines said. “I grew up my whole life playing and He said, ‘I’d like to say one more thing’ and gave us this speech on why he loves Utica, why loving football, so I couldn’t imagine it not being a part of my life.” he’s always been a part of Utica, and why once he was here he never wanted to leave.”

Now being one of Utica’s role models, Hines encourages students to work hard and have Dedication is an important trait when joining a new community and starting a new job, goals. which is part of what makes Hines so exceptional.

“My advice would be to find something that you love and are willing to work for,” Hines “He bleeds the orange and black, and I appreciate that since it’s important. It’s tough said. “Whether it is teaching or coaching, it is important to have something to work for and sometimes coming to another place and transitioning whether you’ve been there or not, always strive to meet those goals.”

GRACIE WETHERINGTON

Ryan Hines

Stevenson High Class of 2013

“My favorite high school memory must be the summer conditioning camps,” Hines said. “While it was hard during it, I remember being with my friends and all of us working toward our goals.”

photos courtesy of the ambassador yearbook

REPORTER