GROWING IN GRATITUDE.
November Issue Volume XVIII Issue III
Cover Designs and Photograph by Chiara Cole
OUR MISSION
The Noctiluca is North's own student-run newspaper. Student editors make all content decisions. Founded in 1995, Noctiluca publishes information relevant to its readers while maintaining high ethical standards and providing a designated public forum for free and responsible expression of views. The newspaper allows students to express themselves through journalism. As a community of collaborators, we aim to create an inclusive environment for anyone and everyone to share ideas, inspire and be inspired, and have fun!
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the Contents
Editor's
EDITORIAL BOARD
Senior Editor-In-Chief Mya Koffie Junior Editor-In-Chief Caroline Jia Managing Editor Umika Sivasamy Creative Director Chiara Cole Copy Editor Megan Mladucky Online Editor Susan Yao Multi-Media Editor Andrea Buyze Social Media Editor Bridjett Relken Culture Editor Melissa Sisto Sports Editor Nadia Tallroth Opinions Editor Elizabeth Jeon Features Editor Audra Jenike News and Interactive Editor Lubabah Ali Advertising Director Aurora Smith Advisor Mr. Ramponi
Senior Editor-in-Chief
Reader, Imagine a world in which each of us seized our every opportunity to bask in gratitude. Imagine moving through a day consciously, carefully, noting every little thing for which, in our chests, we felt some delicate pang of that beautiful feeling we call thankfulness. In the bustle of life, it proves no elaborate undertaking to take those people, places and possessions we love most for granted. As Thanksgiving approaches, bringing turkeys to grocery store shelves and holiday music to radio stations around the country, the question of gratitude arises. In this issue, the Noctiluca explores that question, emerging with an answer something like this: when given the chance to express gratitude, appreciate the moment and give thanks unapologetically, take it no matter the season. We are so excited to invite you to the holidays equipped with news that debriefs North’s successful fall sports season, celebrates indigenous voices and experiences in our community, highlights how North clubs are making efforts to impact our Fox Valley community for the holidays, introduces this year’s amazing Class Presidents, and the sentiment that gratitude is not a luxury to overlook but a necessity to cherish. The Noctiluca is thankful for readers like you. Thank you for listening to the stories of Appleton North and making us who we are. With gratitude,
Culture Taylor Swift's Midnight Album Review 04 Canadian Thanksgiving 05 November Celebrations 06 Features Class Presidents 08 Native American Heritage Month 12 Human of Appleton North Interview: Will Sundvor 14 November Sticky Notes 15 Interactive Word Search 16 Mini Crossword 16 Jumble 17 Perpetual Preston: His Adventures Never End 17 News KEMPA Contest Winners in the Noctiluca 18 Current Events in North's Clubs & the Appleton Community 19 Opinions Giving Gratitude: Editorial 20 Like the "other girls" but also not like the "other girls": An Analysis 22 Sports Fall Sports Season Recap 24 North's Girls' Hockey Team 25
by: Gabi Stern
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Images from TheRecord.com and YahooLife.com
Taylor Swift's Midnight Album
ou’ve probably sensed the buzz of excitement for the new Taylor Swift album, Midnights, around Appleton North. The album has caused a shock-wave of public attention, which is to be expected of any new Taylor Swift content. So many young people at our school, and in the world, feel an unfeigned attachment to Swift and her music, which is proven by the astonishing number of world records the album has broken just in its first week (73, to be exact). The album took all top ten spots on Billboard’s Hot 100, breaking Spotify’s record for the most global streams and single day streams in the first five days after an album release. Concurrent with previous Taylor Swift albums, Midnights' release is clearly making a huge impact on our society. Midnights is Swift’s return to electric pop music after her Americana-folk albums Evermore and Folklore, both of which were released in 2020. Although it signals Swift’s return to pop music, its influence doesn't stop there. One thing that separates Midnights from her previous pop albums is the lyrical prowess and storytelling abilities that she has gained over the years. There is a level of realism and insecurity that is often lacking within modern pop music, and the album isn’t chasing pop trends like a lot of music today does. One gets the sense that she has stopped feeling the need to compete for listeners and instead feels confident enough in her success to dig deeper into her emotions and follow the music wherever her creative genius takes her. Midnights is an album of both self-reflection and self-loathing set to a catchy pop-synth beat, and is a return to Swift’s diaristic writing style. Within tracks like "Anti-Hero", "You’re on your Own, Kid", "Labyrinth", and more, the listener is given a front row seat into the anxieties and fears within Swift’s mind, illustrated more clearly than in any previous album. Some people may say that Taylor Swift “only writes songs about her exes,” but Midnights is yet another example of how this complaint is completely untrue. Midnights is bursting with songs about anxiety, love for her long term partner, regret, loss, and so many other shades of emotion. Just like previous Swift records, she finds the ability to condense emotions that so many people in the world feel, and transform these feelings into beautiful and jam-worthy songs. Overall, Midnights is a mature, nuanced, and highly sophisticated pop album. Yet again, Taylor Swift has produced an album that is important throughout our school community and world. Midnights isn’t chasing trends or vying for approval by mainstream pop culture, but instead takes a deep dive into exactly who Taylor Swift is and how she perceives herself, anxieties and all. Somehow, the album with twenty tracks manages to stay interesting without coming off as bloated or repetitious. Yet again, Swift has proven that her songwriting ability is unmatched, and has added even more records and commercial success to her name. No matter what direction or genre Taylor Swift and her songwriting is pulled in, she always manages to make an album that steals the hearts of so many listeners, and Midnights isn’t any different.
Y
Canadian Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving is an extremely popular tradition in the states as well as Canada. Our northern neighbors observe the holiday with several similarities and differences to the one we call our own. Canada celebrates the holiday a month and a half before the United States on the second Monday of October. That is when the Canadian harvest is typically over, signifying the shifting of seasons. While the United States tends to use Thanksgiving as a precursor to Christmas, Canada views the holiday as a literal giving of thanks for the recently finished harvest. Along with the date change, Canadian Thanksgiving is generally more laid-back and quiet compared to American Thanksgiving. They do not have a Black Friday or Cyber Monday sale that immediately follows their Thanksgiving as Christmas is still far away. This also helps keep the focus of the holiday on the passing of seasons and gratitude rather than materialistic wants. For entertainment purposes, the United States broadcasts the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade and many football games to accompany the big feast. In contrast, Canada broadcasts events to a smaller extent. The Kitchener-Waterloo Oktoberfest is the northern country’s only national parade, and their only football broadcast is the Thanksgiving Day Classic. Travel is a lot less hectic too since Canadians don’t travel across the country to visit their family. Instead, because the weather is still tolerable in early October, families tend to take a small vacation or hike to enjoy the last bit of warm weather. The histories of both differ quite a bit from each other as the first unofficial Canadian Thanksgiving took place in 1578, forty-three years before the first American Thanksgiving. An English explorer and his crew had a feast to commemorate and give thanks for their arrival in Newfoundland. In 1872, it was declared a national holiday to be held on November 6th, which was later changed in 1957 to the second Monday in October. Many of the foods, however, were inspired by American dishes, and some are still enjoyed today. Traditionally, the cuisine found in Canadian Thanksgiving takes advantage of flavors that are already prevalent there. Maple is seen quite a bit, such as in maple-baked salmon, pumpkin maple cornbread, or even maple-mashed sweet potatoes. The usual courses are very similar to those of the United States— turkey and stuffing for the entrée, sweet potatoes and cranberries for sides, and pie (especially pumpkin) for dessert. Generally speaking, the concept of Thanksgiving is very similar in the United States and Canada, with the latter focusing more on the bounty of a harvest rather than the upcoming Christmas season. Nonetheless, both take the time to appreciate spending quality time with family and friends. Just because the holidays fall at different times, does not change the fact that gratitude is a significant value in both examples of the holiday.
our
by: Aurora Smith
CULTURE
by: Melissa and Nick Sisto
Holidays Around the World
While December is surely the first month that comes to mind when thinking about the holidays, November is also a significant time for celebrations of independence and life. During this month, many countries celebrate their independence days, including European, South American, and Asian nations. The concept of awareness is also essential for November. This month is National Military Family Month and National Diabetes Awareness Month. America also celebrates our more commonly known holidays, Veterans Day and Thanksgiving, during November. So while the holiday season is close, let's take a moment to appreciate and learn more about what November brings this month! While November is mainly known for Thanksgiving and Black Friday, many also celebrate National Military Family Month and Diabetes Awareness Month. Military families around the country sacrifice every day alongside their military relatives. This month is a time for everyone to recognize that sacrifice and appreciate the hardships they've endured for their family and country. Veteran's Day can also be tied to Military Family Month as this day honors all who have served in the armed forces, living or deceased, even though the focus is on the living. If you know any veterans, November 11th is the day to say thank you to them and all they've done for the country. November is also known as National Diabetes Awareness Month. Diabetes is a condition that affects a person's ability to turn food into energy. The two types of diabetes are known as type 1 and type 2. Type 1 is genetically inherited, while type 2 develops over time and is mainly lifestyle related. Around 37.3 million Americans (one in every ten people) have diabetes, and one in every five don't even know they have it. Untreated diabetes can turn into a terminal illness and causes serious repercussions. Diabetes affects not only the patient but their families, doctors, and friends. Because this condition requires lots of attention and care, we use this month to bring awareness and educate people about diabetes. November is also the month of numerous independence days, with over twenty celebrated worldwide. On November 1st, 1981, Antigua and Barbuda gained independence from the UK after a long period of peaceful colonization. Three countries celebrate their independence on November 3rd: Dominica was liberated from the UK in 1978; Micronesia separated from the USA in 1986; Panama became independent from Gran Colombia in 1903. Yearly on November 9th, Cambodia celebrates its independence from France in 1953. After 300-plus years of oppression, Angola now celebrates its freedom from Portugal on November 11th. Poland became a nation after over 100 years of occupation and partition by the Germans and Russians on November 11th, when WWI ended. While it is not considered an independence day, Palestine signed its declaration of independence from Israel on November 15th, 1988, starting a fight for freedom that's still going on today. Oman marks the oldest independence day in November, with liberation on November 18th, 1650. Similarly, Latvia and Morocco celebrate their freedom on the 18th. Lebanon celebrates on the 22nd, and Suriname celebrates on the 25th. On the 29th, Albania celebrated its liberation again from Nazi Germany in 1944. And finally, on November 30th, Barbados and Yemen celebrate their independence from the UK. Overall, there are four independence days from the UK, six from France, two from Spain, two from Russia, two from Portugal, and one from the USA, Indonesia, Israel, the Netherlands, the Ottoman Empire, Germany, and Colombia for a grand total of 23 independence days. And, of course, Thanksgiving is Thursday, November 24th. During this holiday, enjoy good food and the break from school, while also making sure to spend time with friends and family this year. Remember all they've done for you whilst reminiscing memories with them. Consider what you're grateful for this year, whether it's more accessible classes or new friends. Most importantly, take the time to sit back and think about the people and things in your life that improve it.
Mark Weed
Get to know the CLASS Presidents
What motivated you to run for class president? I wanted to make the school a better place and make everyone feel like they belong. What are you most excited to accomplish with your new role? I'm excited to help make this year one of the best yet! What else are you involved in, either at school or in general? I swim and play piano and trumpet. What's something unique about you? I can beat-box! What is something you love about yourself? I'm musical. What flavor of ice cream do you think you are? Vanilla.
What motivated you to run for class president? It’s another way to get leadership experience and looks good on college applications. What are you most excited to accomplish with your new role? Making dreams into reality. What else are you involved in, either at school or in general? Football, wrestling, lacrosse, HOSA, and DECA What's something unique about you? I play three sports at school. What is something you love about yourself? I’m there for people. What flavor of ice cream do you think you are? Cookie dough.
Spencer Munson
We all elected them, but how much do we really know about them?
by: Lubabah Ali
Braden Lewis
Kendall Berndt
What motivated you to run for class president? I love people! Talking with and helping others is what I love to do. By running for president, I hoped that I could represent my class to STUCO in a helpful way. What are you most excited to accomplish with your new role? Planning fun ideas for pep rallies and other events. What else are you involved in, either at school or in general? Chess club, piano, cello, math team What's something unique about you? I have met the president. (In fine print: Of NHS :)) What is something you love about yourself? I am a social and cheerful person! What flavor of ice cream do you think you are? Totally superman.
FEATURES
What motivated you to run for class president? I want to make an impact this year, and I want it to be fun for everyone. What are you most excited to accomplish with your new role? Homecoming week is something that I’m really looking forward to help plan. What else are you involved in, either at school or in general? Tennis and track, water ski show team, and jazz band What's something unique about you? I spend a lot of time water skiing with my family as I’ve known how to ski since I was four. What is something you love about yourself? I love how open I am to trying new things. What flavor of ice cream do you think you are? Definitely neapolitan.
What motivated you to run for class president? My best friend Ava was class president for the past two years, so it was only right for me to take her spot. What are you most excited to accomplish with your new role? To add more fun to the school! What else are you involved in, either at school or in general? UNICEF, Interact, HOPE, and track (hurdles) What's something unique about you? I am a lifeguard at Erb Pool and teach lessons year-round. What is something you love about yourself? Even though I procrastinate, I get stuff done. What flavor of ice cream do you think you are? Moose tracks.
What motivated you to run for class president? I wanted to get more involved and represent my grade well in Student Council issues. What are you most excited to accomplish with your new role? I am excited to try and make our senior year the best it possibly can be. What else are you involved in, either at school or in general? Link Crew, NHS, Forensics, and Stand Up What's something unique about you? I can lick my elbow. What is something you love about yourself? Keeping a positive attitude about any situation. What flavor of ice cream do you think you are? Anything with brownies, for sure.
What motivated you to run for class president? Callie Drexler. What are you most excited to accomplish with your new role? Being proactive and listening to what the junior class wants. What else are you involved in, either at school or in general? Key club, debate, ski club, and track, but I hope to join YIG (Youth in Government), DECA, and tennis next year! What's something unique about you? I play the violin. What is something you love about yourself? My hair, I’m genuine and honest, and I’m a people-person. What flavor of ice cream do you think you are? Bubble gum.
Eliza Weed
What motivated you to run for class president? I love people and wanted to help plan the fun school events! What are you most excited to accomplish with your new role? I'm excited to meet more people and maintain high energy and positivity throughout the year. What else are you involved in, either at school or in general? NHS, Link Crew, orchestra, choir, Interact, math team, church, and Best Buddies What's something unique about you? My favorite movie is Emma (the four-hour version, of course) What is something you love about yourself? My height! What flavor of ice cream do you think you are? Chocolate peanut butter.
Ella Baumgart
Lauren Choi
Saul Praska
Native is not just the color of skin or looks. It's where we come from; it's our origin. IT'S WHO WE ARE
by: Mya Koffie
Image of beadwork: Southwest Museum of the American Indian Collection (Autry National Center)
Heritage Month
What started in 1916 as New York’s “American Indian Day” evolved throughout the twentieth century. In 1976, U.S. President Gerald Ford’s proclamation expanded the singular, state-observed day into a “Native American Awareness Week” observed by the entire country. By 1990, George H. W. Bush signed a law designating November as the National Native American Heritage Month we know and love today. This month, America aims to acknowledge the marginalization faced by Native Americans, appreciate the beauty of their cultures, and celebrate the enduring influence that Indigenous contributions — such as snow goggles popular amongst skiers and analgesic medication like Tylenol — have on society. Two voices of the Native American community within Appleton North speak on their experiences and discuss what it means to exist boldly as an Indigenous person in contemporary America. Ms. Shelby Siebers works as the Cultural Advisor for Native American students at not only Appleton North but also Appleton West, Appleton Central, and the Fox Valley Technical College, while North junior and Noctiluca Social Media Editor Bridjett Relken provides a student’s perspective. From what tribe or nation are you? Ms. Siebers: I am from the Oneida Nation, so that’s definitely a part of my experience. It encompasses everything - who I am. I think my experience in being Oneida has brought me a lot of pride and has really shaped everything that I have decided to do in life. It brings me a lot of purpose…to be involved in my community, my culture, my history. Bridjett: I am from the Ojibwe tribe. I feel like I connect with it because I like the history… [There’s a] whole reservation and different historical signs; they have a burial ground that’s dedicated to the Ojibwe tribe. The graveyard ... there were dolls tied around the fence and old ribbons torn apart tied to the fence. There were very, very old sacred grounds; I loved learning about something old that I came from. I loved being where my ancestors were. What is your relationship to your Native American heritage like? Ms. Siebers: I had the experience of not really knowing much when I grew up because my grandma’s parents went through the boarding school era. A lot of the culture and language was lost from generation to generation, so my mom never got to learn anything, but we lived in Oneida basically all my life. I took it upon myself to learn more about my culture and it really brought me a lot of strength. Bridjett: [By blood,] I am a very small percentage Native, but I try to embrace that small percentage. I try to spread the word and help Native people who don’t have a voice to find theirs. I definitely wish I knew more, and I wish I had a connection or…memory of my great-great grandpa who was Native. I wish I knew him and heard his stories and got to learn firsthand…[about] family’s history. What is your favorite part about your heritage? Ms. Siebers: Definitely my community members; I have very strong ties to…my reservation. Just to be around people who share the same experiences as me helps immensely. Another favorite part of my culture would be our social songs. Those are songs that we sing in times when we gather to uplift one another and send good thoughts toward one another…For Indigenous Peoples Day, I taught a group of about eleven students some social songs from Oneida; it was a really cool moment. Bridjett: Learning the history, for sure. If you were to deliver a message to non-Indigenous people around this time of year and throughout the year about Native Americans and your resilience, what would that message say or what would that message look like? Ms. Siebers: For me personally, I always say keep an open heart, keep an open mind, and just be willing to learn. So many Native people are willing to teach about their culture and they know so much about it. It’s also really important to recognize that, with there being almost 600 different nations, one Native person is not going to have the same experience as another Native person. There are actually 12 different nations in Wisconsin. There is a lot of deep history here. It goes back to making sure you take time to listen to the Native voice; that would definitely be my message.
I am thankful for gift cards; that's how I got my Starbucks today lol! - Melissa Sisto
The 3 extra minutes my alarm clock gives me since it runs fast. - Gabi Stern
My family - Evelyn Amorde
What’s the most interesting thing you’ve done in the past 24 hours 24 hours ago I was at Kwik Trip; that’s pretty interesting I’d say. I bought a bag of extra sour Gushers, and then some more candy (because I got a Kwik Trip gift card), so that’s pretty interesting I’d say. What’s your favorite Pokemon? It’s been a long time, but I think it’s called Snivy (Interviewer’s note, it is called Snivy). It was the first one I have ever got… (being gifted) it at my 7th birthday party at the Gem Roller Rink. What’s the craziest invention you’ve made? That’s a good one—I have to think about that, a little bit. I’m gonna do this one because it doesn't involve fire, but one time, me and one of my friends made a tricycle out of wood. What are your thoughts on the overwhelming stress placed on juniors? I don't know. Like for the ACT stuff, in my mind, 5 months is a long time, so I haven’t started worrying about it yet. It’s like, stress-wise, I don't feel that much different than last year. It’s one of those things where comparing it to the year before, the classes are much harder, but when you know the stuff from the years before, it’s not as bad. What are your thoughts on milk? I don't drink milk. There was a point where my mom thought I might be lactose intolerant because I didn't drink milk for like a month, but then we figured out that I’m not lactose intolerant—I just don’t like milk. If you had to give aliens a flavor of Mountain Dew, what flavor would it be? Mango Gem Baja Blast. I would choose that flavor because mangoes are from Asian countries and soda is typically an American thing, so Mango Gem, since it has fruit from the East and soda from the West, it’s like a blend from all the cultures. What's your favorite candy? Hershey's Symphony Chocolate. Would you rather fight one horse-sized goose or a hundred goose-sized horses? It depends. Is it just me alone, or do I get a weapon? If I get a bat, I would take the horses. Don’t horses like, die if they break their legs? What do you think the purpose of life is? In my life, I just want to kind of experience the world, sort of. Like, I know going to a state school is cheaper than going to an out of state school, but going out of state allows me to see more of the world and experience more places.
I am thankful for my mom. My whole life, I have always looked up to my mom. She once worked 3 jobs and went to school, just to keep a roof over my head and food on my plate. She is the strongest person I know. Every day, she pushes me to do my best: to work hard and be independent but also not afraid to ask for help. She is why I am so passionate about all my interests, and why I follow my heart and do what I love to do.s - Bridjett Relken
My beautiful family. My amazing dogs, my weird friends, and my silly girlfriend. -Danny Fernandez
I am thankful for being here and in the Noctiluca - Phillip Heinze
I am thankful for the opportunities that are in front of us, as well as being here. - Elizabeth Jeon
I am most thankful for all the supportive figures I have in my life. - Hannah Luedtke
I am thankful for a lot… for coming to school and seeing all my amazing students and fellow teachers. I am thankful for my two amazing boys and my amazing wife, my partner. I am thankful for everything. Oh, and pie; I am thankful for pie. - Mr Ramponi
by: Joey Martino
HOAN INTERVIEW: Will Sundvor
HOAN FEATURE: Will Sundvor
I am thankful for everyone that has been with me through my journey - Ava Melzer
NOVEMBER STICKY NOTES
collected by: Bridjett Relken
Inspired by THAT SCRAMBLED WORD GAME Created by Audra Jenike
INTERACTIVE
game by: Caroline Jia, Audra Jenike, Lubabah Ali, and Susan Yao
There is really nothing in life that is perpetual--except for Preston. In our brand new interactive piece, Perpetual Preston, search through the image below to find Preston as he ventures to every corner of the world. Here is a reference photo of our beloved friend:
I am thrilled to present the one-month anniversary edition of the interactive section. While the mini crossword will retain its position as our crown jewel, we've diversified to include two new pieces. Visit the interactive section at northnoct.com for answers and apologies for past mistakes, such as accidental clue switching. - Lubabah Ali (Interactive and News Editor)
Down: 1. Soup spoon 2. Libya's final king 3. Thanksgiving meal 4. Hamilton's wife 5. Payments for unbought items
Across: 1. One who’s dedicated forever 6. British “Hello” singer 7. Sink hole 8. "Liebesträume" composer 9. Informal “you are” in Spain
by: Adam Nahm
SPECIAL NOTE
Cobweb Gust Ghoul Crisp Gobble Apples Masquerade Cider Brisk Anoraks Pumpkin Pies Cinder Equinox Scarf Hallows Nonchalant Amber Reap Hayride Foggy Rakes Scythe Susurrous Feast Leaves
Next up? Girl Up! They are starting 2022 off with a project distributing more feminine hygiene products to bathrooms around the school so that when someone needs it, they have access to it. Similarly, Stand Up will also be participating in providing hygiene products to Harbor House. Although it may not seem like a "huge" impact, feminine hygiene products were costly even before inflation despite their necessity. Girl Up's initiative ensures that period products are accessible to everyone, especially those who are struggling financially: these necessary products should not be a burden. Additionally, both clubs are raising awareness and support towards feminine hygiene products and menstruation being recognized as a right and not a taboo topic. While there are so many more clubs doing incredible things, these were just a few that stuck out to me with their efforts. If you are interested in helping others or becoming a part of a welcoming community, consider joining UNICEF, DECA, Girl Up, or Stand Up; they all offer great volunteer opportunities and are always looking for new members!
Current Events within North Clubs & Appleton Community
Even though the Halloween season has wrapped up, North clubs are still handing out treats. UNICEF brought new meaning to the word "treat" with their annual Trick-or-Treat donation fundraiser: students went door to door asking members of the Fox Valley Community for a monetary donation towards health care, safe water, nutrition, education, and emergency relief to children in over 190 different countries around the world. UNICEF also collaborated with DECA in the Trick-or-Can event where students donated canned foods to St. Joseph’s Food Pantry. Both clubs fight for the fundamental rights of communities, and provide assistance and awareness. As the president of UNICEF Ella Romberg noted, “UNICEF is a great organization when it comes to ensuring that all children have access to rights and resources.”
2022 KEMPA Journalism Contest
This June, the Noctiluca entered many of its finest articles, artwork, and photography from the 2021-22 school year into the Kettle Moraine Press Association’s (KEMPA) journalism contest, a competition bringing together students from Wisconsin and Illinois to compete against other student writers, photographers, designers, and multimedia journalists. On October 14th, 2022, the contest award winners were published on the KEMPA website, among which were many of the Noctiluca’s finest pieces of content. This year, we are proud to announce that nine pieces of content, including one produced by Appleton North's DECA chapter, have gained recognition. Take this opportunity to appreciate some of the wonderful and diverse content your fellow contributors have created! Let this also be a reminder that you—yes you!—could be among the list of names next year if you share your voice with us, whether that is through graphic design, writing, or photography! Entries amassed a total of seven honorable mentions, one “Excellent” award, and one “Best of Show” award. Copies of award winning content are available in a google drive folder accessible with this link: bit.ly/KEMPANorth News Feature Stories Honorable mention: Audra Jenike “Treasure Island Actors on the Power of Words” News Opinions Column Honorable mention: Caroline Jia “The Power of Political Labels” News Magazine Cover Honorable mention: Emma Krajnik News Double Truck Design Excellent: Mya Koffie News Multimedia Packages Honorable mention: Chiara Cole Video PSA Honorable mention: Caroline Jia, Emma Henselin, Navy Muchow, and Ella Lornson “Ethics in the Classroom” Student Life Photo Honorable mention: Emma Krajnik Honorable mention: Bridjett Relken Photo Illustration Best of Show: Chiara Cole
Graphics by Kara Bellg
NEWS
by: Erika Burdick
by: Caroline Jia
Illustration by Chiara Cole
GIVING GRATITUDE: EDITORIAL
OPINIONS
Gratitude is November’s most well-known theme, assumingly because of Thanksgiving. Indeed, gratitude means to be grateful for the things that are most important to you, but a simple “thank you” has much more impact than one might think. Gratitude has gathered our society together as one, creating a more peaceful and closer community. It has not only helped people feel appreciated, but has saved lives in doing so; everyone needs to feel loved and supported no matter the circumstance. Make sure to show thankfulness and understanding to the people you do and don't know: even a simple smile to a stranger or classmate will suffice. Looking back to the past, the pandemic has challenged traditional Thanksgiving traditions and the aspect of gratitude. Consequently, it was difficult to give thanks when COVID-19 took the lives of loved ones, changed our way of living, and inconvenienced us with enforced precautions. Despite it all, there were some remaining bits of gratitude throughout the pandemic. For instance, people who weren’t as affected by the virus were truly grateful for staying healthy and safe. Furthermore, students during virtual learning were definitely grateful for the ability to stay home, wake up late, and attend class from the comfort of their bed. But for the majority of the pandemic, people were frustrated and "not in the mood" to be grateful amidst the negative impacts COVD-19 had brought forth. This was when our "united-world" started to fall apart as we allowed our frustration and differing opinions to seize control. From not fearing physical contact and social gatherings to distancing and isolating from everyone, the "new normal" was an unquestionably grueling time to get used to. The reason this is being brought up is to remember the little positive things that resulted from quarantine. The pandemic didn’t only leave negative effects in society, but helped to improve many aspects of the world (like technology) and brought more awareness to mental health and self-care. It also strengthened our minds and helped us to notice that being with loved ones, in any given time, is a blessing and a moment everyone should cherish. This pandemic has taught us many things in life, especially to be grateful for life's little things and to remember that even the worst situations have a silver lining. As touched on before, gratitude can be a “simple yet genuine ‘thank you’”(Megan Mladucky). Megan Mladucky, the Copy Editor of the Noctiluca, further states that “in our hectic lives run by over-booked schedules and phone notifications, it is so easy to forget that everyone needs a little validation and support from time to time.” On the daily, everyone is busy and has a workload of things to do. In these moments, people are most vulnerable to stress. In times of stress, recognition and being thankful for others' time is effective. As Chiara Cole, the Creative Director of the Noctiluca, states, “everyone has struggles, but having an environment that fosters positivity makes all the difference.” In moments when people are the most susceptible to mental or physical damage, incorporating gratitude will “make all the difference.” Not only when people are the most vulnerable, showing kindness/importance towards others should be a daily task for everyone. As Megan emphasizes, “gratitude should never be unrequited nor fixed in season. Showing appreciation for loved ones is an important daily task.” This says it all. Appreciation should never be a “one-moment” thing or a checkbox on your Thanksgiving to-do list; it should be an important "daily task” incorporated into everyone’s lives. As Senior Editor in Chief, Mya Koffie adds, “when an entire community can appreciate what distinguishes and uplifts it each day, greater kindness and patience between that community's members can flourish.” In return, gratefulness creates a closer community and a valued heart to the little aspects in life, which helps people “feel lucky in the midst of the completely ordinary," Koffie said. Giving thanks is important, but keeping that “kindness beyond your ‘save-the-date’ holiday calendar,” as Mladucky said, will as Koffie said “acknowledge a person’s presence and humanity." “Thanking others (even for the little things) creates a positive environment where everyone is striving and supporting each other,” Cole said. Showing gratitude can be shown in many different ways. Some examples include donating to charity, holding doors for strangers, saying thank you, checking in on people who seem to be struggling, commending people who work hard, making appreciative cards, and sharing smiles with people. As Megan Mladucky compares these actions to the “exchanging of gifts on Christmas morning,” these acts of appreciation will “spread infectiously” and remain a memory or positive aspect of someone’s day. Caroline Jia also points out that “practicing mindfulness and being present helps us to appreciate the moments that we get to live, because living in a first world country we often take our lives (and livelihood) for granted.” This is an excellent example of showing gratitude for the opportunities and privileges that are provided to us every day. Chiara Cole explains, “looking outwards and recognizing all the things that others do for you drives you to look at ways you can help others.” This act of admiration can make someone’s day, but it can also create a harmonious community. In review, a single act of gratitude can make a huge difference. Make sure to spread your appreciation and love to everyone, even if it isn’t "in season."
If you’ve been on TikTok or any social media, you may be familiar with the concept of a “pick-me” person. TikTok traditionally defines a “pick-me” as someone who claims they are “not like the other girls” and are therefore superior to gain attention, whether that is because they are interested in hobbies “most girls” aren’t interested in or for a variety of other reasons. (Note that the use of the phrase “not like the other girls” doesn’t refer to just girls but rather is a colloquial term that refers to anyone who fits its characterization). A simple search through TikTok reveals the hatred society as a whole seems to have for these outliers. However, this unity in hatred actually creates more problems, as the logic behind diagnosing a “pick-me” is then extrapolated to anyone who is different, regardless of their intentions. It is human to want to fit in; it is human to want to stand out. And this humanness takes its form through desire for social validation. As a result of this innate desire, people want to be part of the anti “pick-me” league, while still being a unique individual with their own interests and pursuits—a very contradictory and problematic form of logic. The root of this problem is hypocrisy: when we do something that is unique and special to us, we don’t see it as being “pick-me” or try-hard because we know that we genuinely enjoy that thing, but when we see someone else enjoying something, we suddenly label them as "weird" or a wannabe “not like the other girl(s)”. Recently, during a conversation with someone, they said something along the lines of, “I’m not like them, I don’t make sports my whole entire personality.” Unfortunately, many of you have probably heard someone say this too but not thought anything of it. The fact of the matter is that these statements invalidate the fact that other people can genuinely enjoy their hobbies without doing them solely for attention. It is completely fine for someone to enjoy sports, so long as they don’t think they are superior to other people for the simple fact of being an athlete. In saying these types of things, we aren’t looking past the surface level to see the real intentions of people. We are making an assumption that is completely unfair to the person at hand. Using this kind of hypocritical logic, it is impossible to just be at peace because there will always be some reason to hate on someone else or a reason for someone to hate on you. I’ve seen social media posts of people embracing being a “hater”, and it is frankly one of the most absurd trends I’ve seen in existence. The basis of the trend is that you are down to earth and unique for unashamedly hating on people for very trivial characteristics because it makes you feel better about yourself. You see what the problem is? Someone can literally just exist and be hated on. People hate on alternative people for looking “emo”, and in the same way, they hate on people for being dedicated to a religion. Of course, I’m not saying that you can't dislike someone who has any of these characteristics. I’m simply saying that making a judgment only on those basic facts is unfounded. An argument one could make is to simply “toughen up” and not care because “that’s life;” however, that still does not mean that we cannot make life a little easier for everyone. Society does not need superficial problems, such as these, on top of its already countless complications. I suppose the message of this analysis is to be inclusive— hopefully written in a way that society can understand and finally implement. We should not make fun of people for being “basic,” for liking math, for watching anime, or for playing football because between the “basic” girl who does her makeup every morning, the nerd who obsesses over calculus, the geek who enjoys anime, and the guy who loves football, these people could all equally genuinely enjoy their interests. Their existences are not mutually exclusive. They are not competing predators chasing the same prey, instead they are equal prey killing each other in pursuit of the reward we call social validation.
North's Girls' Hockey Team
Throughout the fall season, Appleton North High School student athletes have been representing the school with exceptional drive. The ten sports that took place this fall were boy's and girl's cross country, performance team, football, girl’s golf, boy’s soccer, girl’s swim and dive, girl’s tennis, and boy’s and girl’s volleyball. If you were not able to make it to all of these events, continue reading for an update on these fabulous teams and athletes! ~~~~~~~~ Boy's JV Cross Country: This team received a combined score of 149 points, placing them fifth in Conference. The top scorer was Lukas Nahm placing nineteenth overall. Boy's Varsity Cross Country: This team received a combined score of 54 points, placing them second in Conference. Peter Olson took the lead placing fifth overall. Girl's JV Cross Country: This team received a combined score of 74 points, placing them fourth in Conference. The top scorer was Francesca Augelli placing tenth overall. Girl's Varsity Cross Country: This team received a combined score of 88 points, placing them fourth in Conference. Karissa Smith took the lead placing eleventh overall. Performance Team: This team has been at every football game and has been cheering them on since day one! At homecoming, their halftime performance and collaboration with the band were spectacular and loved by students and parents alike. Freshman Football: This team has three wins and four losses. Their biggest victory was against Green Bay Prebel with a score of 56 to 14. JV Football: This team has eight wins and zero losses. Their biggest victory was against Green Bay Southwest with a score of 49 to 0. Varsity Football: This team has five wins and two losses placing them third overall. They continued past the conference season and into the playoffs! On the playoff game of Friday the 4th, the score was 17-10. Girl’s Golf: At Chaska Gold Course, this team received a combined score of 354, placing them second at Conference. AJ Powell scored the best with a 71. Boy’s Soccer: This team had five wins, two losses, and two ties for Conference, placing them fourth overall. Girl’s Swim and Dive: This team had six wins and zero losses placing them first! Girl’s Tennis: This team placed third overall at the conference tournament. Olivia Gaskill took the lead, winning her flight at conference. Boy’s Volleyball: This team has seven wins and zero losses placing them in first. They advanced to state semi-finals. Girl’s Volleyball: This team has eight wins and one loss placing them in second. They advanced to state semi-finals. What an incredible year! A special thank you to all the coaches and mentors who have been a huge support along the way. We cannot wait to see what winter sports will hold!
by: Aerwyn Davis
Walking through the hallways of North, you will find a small part of a much bigger family called the Fox Cities Stars. This group of 36 girls--spread across 12 different schools--are more than excited to begin the hockey season this November. Despite attending different schools across the Fox Valley, these girls play with unmatched teamwork and determination that has taken them far, and will continue to take them far. Together these girls have qualified for state three times and placed first two years in a row. However, what stands out most about this group is that they are more than just a team, they are a family. Between long hours spent in travel and on the ice, they have built a team connected at the heart: a team that never forgets their graduated seniors and welcomes their incoming freshmen with open arms. This year, they will continue to work hard to hopefully achieve their goal of winning state. So, grab your warm clothes and get ready to cheer by coming to support this amazing team. The first home game is Nov 18th at Tri-County Ice Arena in Neenah. Varsity plays at 5:30 with JV to follow.
SPORTS
Fall Sports Season Recap
by: Nadia Tallroth and Philip Heinze
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