Volume 1, Issue 1 35276 Division Road Richmond, MI 48062 Bond Update For Richmond Community Schools By: Madison Schultz taking place. The new addition is adding twelve new classrooms, for the There have been lots of changes at extra space Richmond needs. Richmond Community Schools that are “Four early childhood, eight second positively impacting students and staff. and third grade, and four first grade Richmond Community Schools passed classrooms are a part of the new addition the $38.7 million school bond last No- at the elementary school,” superintendent vember. A few developments were started Mr. Walmsley said. “We just don’t have over the summer, but many more are to the room with all these new enrolments.” come. The schools are finally getting the Big things are happening in the summer updating that they need. of 2021. New infrastructure updates One of the bond updates that has been include more efficient walk-ways and finished is the new turf field. The field parking lots which make it a safer turned out so good, and the teams are environment for everyone here in the loving playing on it. The old field got dug district. There will also be new light up, and they used the dirt to level off and poles installed with better lights for the create two practice fields for sports, band, environment. There’s going to be major and outside organizations. This is located design and layout changes with all this, on the side of the high school by the sci- but it’s going to be a much smoother way ence wing, which is in front of the middle Richmond High School’s new turf field. to get through the schools and safer. school. This saved the district money and on and is much smoother than the grass has been replaced on the Will L. Lee Ele- “Things are running very smoothly, and was a great way to use our old resources. fields,” football captain Mitchell Dobbe- mentary. Also, the elementary school will everything is on track and so far under Student athletes are enjoying the new laer said. add additional classrooms as part of the budget,” Mr. Walmsley said. field. Another bond update that’s been updates. There are fences up around the “I like the new field. It’s fun to play completed is a section of the roof which school where there has been construction

Welcome Back To Richmond High School By: Abigail Simmons virtually learning, allowing smaller class very happy with student compliance sizes, more socially distanced seating regarding the new guidelines. Mr. Even though school looks a little differ- arrangements, and safer protocols with Kastl, the RHS principal, said, “for ent, students at Richmond High School less kids in the school. the most part, all things considered, I are happy to be back face to face for the Derek Snyder, a virtual twelfth grade think everyone is doing a great job.” 2020-2021 school year. student, sees many benefits to learning At the beginning of the day, the While most students opted for in per- online. “I love it, less distractions and temperatures of every student and staff son instruction, Richmond Community more freedom, but I miss the teachers member are taken. Every second hour Schools does have an option to allow stu- and building friendships with my peers, and fifth hour every student is required dents to learn virtually. Each classroom though,” Derek said. to wash their hands to stay clean, has a camera in it to allow the students at If being back in person means having healthy, and safe. home to learn the same information as to wash our hands two times a day and the students in school, at the same time. follow new protocols, students and See Welcome Back pg. 2 In the high school 86.5% of students staff are willing to do it. are face to face learning, and 13.5% are Administrators at the high school are

Mission Statement: INDEX Creative Writing ………..…….11 At Richmond Community Schools, we District News ………..……....1-4 RHS Student Art ……..………12 provide a quality education that empow- RHS Sports Updates ……...5-8 Fun and Games ……………….13 ers students to be successful in a global Star Athletes ………………..…..5 Writer Bios ………….………….14 community. Features …………….………..9-10 News 2

WELCOME BACK continued from Mrs. Crandall, a helper and substitute at There are lots of new procedures ev- twelfth grade in person learner, said. pg 1. the high school, said, “I enjoy coming in eryone must follow, and they are going Most students are just happy to be everyday and helping out. I like coming smoothly. “I think it is an excellent back at school with their friends again At the end of every class, each student and seeing the students day after day.” system, and I am very happy with how and making new friendships. The year is is to wipe down anything they came Another safety protocol involves only it is in place,” Mr. Delore, RHS Social going to look a little different, but every- in contact with throughout the hour. allowing students go to their lockers Studies teacher, said. one is adjusting well. During classes, the high school has after every other hour. The students with For some, the new procedures are a multiple helpers that go around the even numbered lockers get to go to their little stressful. “It’s over-whelming, es- school and clean door handles and other lockers after the even hours, and odd pecially with the changes that have been appliances that are used multiple times numbered lockers get to go after odd made, but overall, it feels pretty good throughout the day. hours. to be back at school,” Skylar Swartz, a Welcome Back to Richmond Middle School By: Reese Rinna the middle school. adults enter the building. We have would really like to stay in school Besides the masks and facial cover- scheduled hand washing twice a day, throughout the school year. I’m glad Students at Richmond Middle School ings, there are many other protocols to and we are alternating lockers – at to have the option to go online or go are happy to be back with their class- to school in person. I think being in mates in person or virtually. person is as close to a normal school The school year of 2020-2021 is a year as we are going to get.” bit different than most years, but it’s as Overall, students are working ex- normal as possible in times like this. No tremely hard to comply with the safety one was expecting a school year like protocols. Some students differ in their how it’s currently going, and students opinion to go online or stay in person and staff are trying to make the best for classes. Most students chose to of it. go to classes in person at the middle Students and staff are making sure school and feel as if this school year is to put safety first at the middle school. somewhat usual while remaining safe. Masks and face shields are arguably Students and staff will continue to the most important rule through-out the follow the new guidelines at school district. and are happy to be back, especially Middle school principal, Mr. Bartels, ensure the safety of RMS students and dismissal,” Mr. Bartels said. to see all new and familiar faces at states, “We are wearing masks/facial staff. Students are following the new school the Richmond Middle School for the coverings in all common areas, besides “We have assigned socially distant guidelines as closely as possible. Sixth 2020-2021 school year. when we are eating in the cafeteria. seats in the classroom and during lunch. grade student Mila Rinna shares some Grades four through eighth are required We have an hourly cleaning schedule. of her thoughts on the school year so far. to be wearing a facial covering/mask at We take temperatures as students or Mila explains, “Me and all my friends Welcome Back to Will L. Lee Elementary School By: Gabe Brocket in the spring of last school year, staff dents in my classroom are adapting very inter-com and inform the teacher the at the elementary have had to adapt to well to the mask mandate.” student is leaving. The child that is Following the enactment of Richmond the new rules of safety that were added A few teachers have tried to turn the leaving gets escorted in order to trace Community School’s bond, we have had to the handbook for this year. Wearing procedures for safety into a game for where they go to prevent any contact many changes occur over the summer with other students. and still now at the Will L. Lee with the The new safety precautions are han- construction of ten new classrooms to dled easily by kids and staff, but along the building. The elementary will have with these Ms. Cook added, “We are rooms designated to before and after teaching our students to keep them- school childcare, benefitting the students selves and their play areas clean.” Ms. and parents. Another benefit from the Cook explained that this was not new to additions are first grade classrooms teach kids to keep their play areas clean, getting bathrooms for the class, so even without Covid-19 they were taught kids don’t have to be walking through to stay sanitary and clean. hallways. masks throughout the day and washing the younger kids in the classroom. Ms. The staff weren’t the only ones The Lee principal, Mr. Kochan, had their hands mandatorily twice per day, Cook, a preschool teacher, said in her with opinions on the bond benefits only positive statements about the staff and students are feeling happy and class, they refer to the masks as “ninja and Covid-19 safety procedures, a construction and bond work. “There are healthy. masks,” and they put them on, without third-grade student said, “I think that currently 5 classes of kindergarten, 1st Mrs. Barrett, a third-grade teacher, complaint before entering the building. construction and rules for COVID are grade, and 3rd grade. This is the most appreciates her co-workers and students’ “As they enter, they get their tempera- going great. I am excited for the new classes that Lee Elementary has had efforts put into the safety procedures tures checked. Just like the masks, we classrooms to be built so that more in several years,” Mr. Kochan said. “It and understanding the two new learning try to make this into a game,” Ms. Cook students can come to this school. That is very positive to see the enrollment management systems, Schoology and said. means there will be more friends.” growth and additional classrooms being Microsoft Teams. “I am amazed at how Just as fun as games is leaving school The Will L. Lee has the teachers, staff, available through the bond.” much time and energy the Richmond early, but the way of getting released administrators, students, and families as The bond isn’t the only thing that teachers put into helping their students, from school has changed a little bit. their top priority, keeping them safe and brought changes to the elementary by mastering the use of these systems,” Parents must email the school or call healthy while student numbers grow. school. With the arrival of Covid-19 Mrs. Barret said. “The third-grade stu- in, and the school will go over the News November 2020 News 3 Meet Up and Eat Up Continues through 2021 By: Zackary Sellers nity,” Mr. Walmsley, the Superintendent courage families to take advantage of it less thing to worry about for the week. for Richmond Schools, said. and use it,” Mr. Walmsley stated. From the start of the pandemic to now it COVID-19 devastated many people People call ahead a day before and tell However many children someone has is recorded that the program has served in all different kinds of ways. Many the school how many meals they will will not matter. For example, if someone over 55,000 meals to families in need. families have struggled financially from need, and the next day they go and pick has three kids, they will tell the staff, For families who are interested or in COVID-19 and worrying about their it up. Not a lot of people know such a and they will get enough to feed three need, please call: 586-727-3565. Call next meal is something no one should program has been going on, so throwing children breakfast and lunch for the and order on Monday and then pickup have to think about. Richmond Com- the word out can maybe help families whole week. For people to partake in on Tuesday between 1:30pm-2:30pm. munity Schools have a program to help that have never heard of it before to get getting food, they would call the school its community get through such tough the help they need. on Monday and tell them the number times in our country. The program was only supposed to of children. On the following day, they Richmond has a program called “Meet go until the end of the year, meaning in go to the East side of the high school to up and Eat up” to do its part for families December. Recently the date has been pick up their order. They will receive the affected financially from the pandemic. extended for the rest of the school year. amount of food requested at that time. Anyone with children ages 18 and under The food service staffs of Richmond The Meet Up and Eat Up is a tremen- living in the district can call and order Schools work the program and cook the dous program to help, not only our com- food. “You don’t need to go to Rich- food. The program supplies breakfast munity, but it is also great for families mond to take advantage of this opportu- and lunch for the whole week. “I en- that need that extra help and that one

Welcoming New Staff at Richmond High School By: Nicholas Powers a very special place to me, and I am be back to normal sooner rather than thrilled that my family and I get to be a later.” RCS Staff We are finally back in school after a part of this community.” Proud to be long six months away! Here at Rich- Being back in school has given the Blue Devil Alumni mond High School we have many new, As a community, we are excited to have community a sense of normalcy during exciting changes, including new staff! Mr. Misko back with us as well! these times. Preston Treend I asked one of the newest teachers, Brett Burg Sean Misko, a series of questions that Q Graduating from Richmond, how Q How are you adjusting to the new Kari Shagena cover many topics such as Covid-19 do you think you matched up against requirements put in place due to Stephanie Germain regulations, being back face-to-face, other high school seniors in the area, Covid-19? Kristie Cramton the district’s handling of Covid-19, and and do you think Richmond did a Emily Leach many more exciting topics! good job preparing you for post-sec- A “Obviously, it is a major adjustment Rachael Churchill ondary life? to the educational setting. I am not Ken Hooks thrilled to be overextended with students Kyle Bartels A “I believe Richmond was better than in multiple settings, but I believe that Ann Durst most of the surrounding area schools in every student deserves the same oppor- Samantha Perry preparing students for post-secondary tunity to learn, that’s my job and I will Jessica Thurman life, whether college or trade school, do the best I can.” Denise Pinskey each classmate that I graduated with is Ashley Gibson finding success in their life. I accredit Q How do you think our district is Ronda Lagrois much of that to the preparation that took handling the virus based on our safety Jennifer Dorsey place within Richmond Schools and the requirements? Reen Shannon Mr. Misko community.” Mr. Misko is entering his 11th year A “I believe the district is doing every- teaching Mathematics and Physical This year is not a typical school year thing it can to comply with government Education where he spent seven of those for all districts around the country, even regulations while offering an excellent years in Mauldin, South Carolina. He world, due to Covid-19. There was a lot learning environment.” also spent one year at Allegan High of controversy about going face-to-face School, New Haven High School, and or staying virtual for a portion of the Mr. Misko is a wonderful addition to Richmond Middle School. Mr. Misko is year, and here at Richmond, students Richmond High School. He cares about also a part of the High School football could make the decision on their own. the students, other staff members, our and wrestling programs here at Rich- However, teachers are all back in their community, and he takes his job very mond High School. classrooms, and Mr. Misko is very seriously. Being involved in many excited for it. things around Richmond, Mr. Misko Q As an Alumni, how do you feel has impacted many student’s lives. As about being back in Richmond High Q Are you glad to be teaching face- a teacher, football coach, and a person, School? to-face? Mr. Misko exceeds many expectations, and many people look up to him. We are A “I could not be more excited to be A “I am very glad to be teaching face- proud to call him a Blue Devil. back in my hometown. Richmond is to-face. I am very hopeful that we will News November 2020 News 4 How Can We Cope with the Covid-19 Pandemic? By Victoria Mazur this time. call lifelines such as the National Sui- even had students take a survey on how It is important to educate people on cide Prevention Lifeline, the National well they are doing during this school The Covid-19 pandemic has been how the isolation and fear from this Domestic Violence Hotline, and the year and if they need anything from the difficult for many citizens this year. pandemic can decline someone’s health National Child Abuse Hotline. school in order to do better. Richmond It has been especially hard for people both mentally and physically. The stay Keeping good routines can reduce schools have set a good example for with mental illnesses, the homeless, and at home order, while no longer enforced, stress from staying at home all time. schools everywhere. the elderly. Taking the proper safety had many negative effects on everyone. Keeping in contact with friends and National Helplines precautions such as: wearing a mask Checking up on people having a rough family virtually. Helping elderly or sick National Suicide Prevention and social distancing will make getting time can be beneficial to everyone. people within your community to keep Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK through this much easier. Although 2020 While everyone should check up on them safe. Richmond Community has been a scary and uncertain time, their friends and family, they also need Schools have been doing their part in National Domestic Violence there are ways to help others and your- to focus on their own well-being. Eating trying to keep their students healthy and Hotline: 1-800-799-7233 or self. Just following simple precautions well and exercising can pass time and safe. Richmond is enforcing keeping text LOVEIS to 22522 can help save lives. Or checking up on make people feel physically better. Dis- masks on, washing hands every 2nd friends, family or even people from covering new hobbies and trying new and 5th hours, and having students National Child Abuse Hotline: your community who are alone during things within your home. People can wash their desks after every class. They 1-800-4AChild The Future of Blue Devil Robotics By: Michael Foss robot and extra for a balanced bar. start. competitiveness and pride at South- The Blue Devils’ robot, Renegade, Coach Nick Matthes was incredibly field going 18-0 and winning,” Coach Last year was a big year for the Blue was able to complete all of these tasks proud of his team’s accomplishments. Matthes said. Devils, Richmond High School’s FIRST skillfully. This led to an 18-0 perfect “The team was on a streak. Probably the Things were looking great for the team, Robotics Competition team. They and the Blue Devils’ next competition received a new room from the bond, was going to be in Waterloo, Ontario. gained more new team members than However, the COVID-19 pandemic before, and started with a perfect game forced FIRST to cancel all competitions, to the season. However, the strong start cutting the strong-starting season short. to the 2020 season was cut off short by After this, FIRST, FRC, and the Blue the pandemic, leaving some to wonder Devils’ activity became practically what happened to the Blue Devils. dormant. FIRST Robotics Competition, (FRC) is However, a kickoff competition at run by For Inspiration and Recognition Kettering University was planned for of Science and Technology or FIRST for 2020-21 school year. The Blue Devils short. FIRST is an organization founded have been holding small meetings with in 1989 by Dean Kamen and Woodie the drive team preparing for the event. Flowers that seeks to promote and “The plan for next year is up in the air. inspire students in the engineering and FIRST announced that we are playing technology fields, both parts of STEM. [Infinite Recharge] again, but at this The Blue Devils, 4130 in FRC’s team point, there is no plan for in-person numbers, had joined FRC in 2012 events, and they are reevaluating in Jan- with help from Armada’s the Fighting uary. There are some virtual challenges Pi, team 1718. The Blue Devils kept planned,” Coach Matthes said. growing in number and rank over time, For the time being, the Blue Devils and eventually winning the Carson Division FRC are waiting for FIRST to release a of the 2018 World Finals. plan for Infinite Recharge. In this time, FIRST and FRC have a wide reach, essentially, all will be quiet. However, with 3,898 teams from 34 countries par- this does not mean this is the end of the ticipating in FRC’s 2020 game, Infinite Blue Devils’ hot streak. Re-charge. The game routine, simply Based their performance at Southfield put, is to place or shoot power cells from both the team and the coaches, this (yellow balls) into goals near the driv- could be just the beginning. er’s stations—opposite ends of the field where drivers controlled their robots— to score points in phase 1. This starts with a 15-second autonomous phase where robots must be programmed to operate without the need for drivers. Next, the robot needs to spin a color The Blue Devils’ Robots wheel to finish phase 2. Robots can still score power cells. This opens the game scored at their first competition, best chemistry the team has ever had. end-game. Lastly, robots would need to the Southfield FIM event in February, Going into Southfield, I was confident hang themselves onto a giant bar shaped winning them the District Event Winner with how the team was performing and like a hanger in the center of the field to and Autonomous awards. Their 2020 how we were working toward the main finish the game, earning more points per competition season had a very strong goal. I was really impressed with our News November 2020 Sports 5 Making It to the Collegiate Level By Reese Rinna excel in my education to help me isn’t all Hudson does for baseball. He do not get to where they are solely by receive an academic scholarship.” also plays on a top tier travel baseball themselves. Many people want to accomplish their Hudson committed to Eastern Michi- organization called Arsenal. His team “I give credit to God for giving me lifetime goal of becoming a collegiate gan because of its baseball program, and travels all around the United States to the ability to play baseball, my family, athlete, however, it is very rare. But he liked the campus. play other top tier teams. friends, and coaches for pushing me not for Hudson Davenport, a junior at “I love to play on my summer ball and guiding me down the college path,” Richmond High School. team because my coaches are great, I Davenport said. Covid-19 interrupted the process for face really good competition, and I love Hudson is a special student at Rich- new college students and athletes. For meeting new people who have the same mond High School. Many opportunities only a limited time visits to the campus passion as me,” Davenport said. are yet to be in place for him. There’s are allowed. College coaches were not When Hudson is not in season for still much more to come for Eastern allowed to talk to their recruits in person baseball or football, he is always work- Michigan commit, Hudson Davenport. and could only interact online. ing to be better. He improves his skill Hudson Davenport, a Richmond High by working out and practicing just about School student and athlete, will be every day for baseball whether on his graduating in the year of 2022. He plays own or for a team. both football and baseball for Richmond “Working out is something I’ve picked High School. Currently a Junior, Hud- up on over the past couple of years to son’s GPA is a 3.5 and is still waiting improve my game. I also do a lot of Eastern Michigan Baseball Field for his SAT results. He received both positional work, hitting, and throwing academic and athletic scholarships for “The campus was very nice, dorms felt to strengthen my arm for baseball,” his recent commitment to the University like home, and the brand-new athletic Davenport said. of Eastern Michigan. facilities top most of the schools I have Hudson doesn’t just credit himself for Hudson Davenport Reflecting on his academic preparation visited,” Davenport said. the hard work and dedication that got Hudson said, “I took honors classes to Playing in the high school league him where he is today. Most people

SEPTEMBER ATHLETES OF THE MONTH SPONSORED BY HEALTHQUEST PHYSICAL THERAPY Drew Matyunas Jaelyn Amhdar

By: Austin Warn

DOB: August 31st DOB: January 31st Height: 5’ 9 Height: 5’ 7 What sports do you play? Soccer, Football, Basketball What sports do you play? Volleyball, Softball Favorite Athlete: Tacko Fall Favorite Athlete: Misty May Treanor Favorite Artist: Kanye West Favorite Artist: 21 Savage Biggest Inspiration: Matthew Teltow Biggest Inspiration: The Ducks she had Favorite Movie: Stepbrothers Favorite Movie: Cat in the Hat Favorite Number: 14 Favorite Numbers: 11 and 14 Plans for his Future: To go to college to play soccer Favorite High school sports moment: Beating Armada at the annual pink out Favorite High school sports moment: Scoring a goal against Lutheran North in game in her junior year soccer districts Biggest fan: Her Grandma

Drew is a Sophomore at Richmond and A senior at Richmond, Jaelyn has while he plays 3 sports he does deal plenty of decisions to make. When with the overlapping of Football and asked about her future plans, Jaelyn Soccer. “The communication between said,” I plan to attend college to play my coaches and me is the only way it volleyball and pursue a degree in becomes possible to play two sports Exercise Science then further that at once,” he explained as he described into Occupational Therapy.” how he manages the two seasons at She hopes to carry on her passion of once. Drew has two more years of this volleyball into her next step. busy schedule in high school before his graduation in 2023.

Sports November 2020 Sports 6 Alumni Spotlight By: Zack Sellers develop best as a football player and and their wellness. At Saginaw Valley, more challenging. “College is definitely a student,” Connor said. Connor was students get the education that prepares harder; it has a bigger work-load and the Connor Cracchiolo, a 2020 Richmond scouted by many colleges for his athlet- them to be an entry-level practitioner. fact that no one is around to make you High School graduate, sits in his dorm icism in football, but being athletic was Colleges everywhere have either gone do what you have to is hard,” Connor room studying for classes and thinking not the only thing that got him a schol- in lockdown with heavy restrictions due said. about his football workout. Connor arship. Connor graduated high school to Covid-19, or they are fully online. Connor looks forward to continuing received a scholarship to Saginaw with a 3.72 GPA which gave him more Connor was lucky enough where Sagi- in-person classes at Saginaw Valley Valley State University for athletics and opportunities for better scholarships. naw Valley announced on May 13th that State University and working hard at academics. His football scholarship paid Saginaw Valley State University is they were teaching face-to-face learning achieving greatness during the years. for his tuition to go there. located in Saginaw, Michigan; it is while other colleges are just now start- He practices with intensity and does not Connor known highly for the study of teaching ing face-to-face or are online. take this opportunity for granted. stated that and nursing. It was founded as a private Playing football and keeping ones Saginaw institution in 1963. The acceptance for grades up can put a heavy weight on was not his GPA is usually 3.4, and the SAT score is students’ shoulders, especially first-year first pick around 910-1100. students. Maintaining a social life and in schools, “I decided to major in Pre-Physical being successful in college are hard to but he Therapy, but I’m probably going to balance. “I just stay positive and realize sides with change it, and I plan on going for at tomorrow will be a bet ter day, and with saying it least 5 years,” Connor said. my coaches and team-mates, it makes it was his best Physical Therapy is the study of easier because they are a great support decision. “I helping physically ill people by doing system,” Connor said. felt this was treatments such as massages or even Many students have complained about SVSU Football Stadium the place workouts. It is to help people do things high school and its workload, but com- Connor Cracchiolo that I could they want to do throughout their life pared to the college workload, it is a lot

RHS Wrestlers, Continuing The Tradition By: Luke Brand been working hard to prepare for his scholarship based on his junior year first college wrestling season. “We train season, will be attending Southern Richmond has put out many athletes around one to two times every day for Illinois University Edwardsville in who received scholarships for their usually five to six days a week,” Luke Illinois. Dan’s two older brothers both athletic achievements, the Richmond said. His season will hopefully be start- wrestled at SIUE. Dan’s brother Colton wrestlers are one notable group. ing in January. is currently attending the university, so Luke Davis, a 2020 graduate, and Dan Luke is very happy with his choice of when asked how he felt to not only go McKiernan, a 2021 graduate, both college. “It’s one of the best decisions to the same school as his brothers, but to received scholarships for their wrestling I’ve made so far,” Luke said. train with one of them, Dan said, “I’m ability. Luke’s time at Campbell University excited for the opportunity to train with hasn’t been without some problems, my brother, Colton.” though. For two weeks during Septem- Just like Luke Davis, Dan’s season ber, Luke was quarantined due to one is affected due to Covid-19. It is not cur- of his teammates being infected with rently known if there will be a wrestling Covid-19. “During quarantine I played season for his senior year. Thankfully, a ton of Wii sports and did body weight Dan received the scholarship based on Dan McKiernan workouts,” Luke said. his junior year performance. “I’m proud Luke reflected on his senior year on that my hard work paid off to benefit my Richmond’s wrestling team. “Senior future,” Dan said. season was kind of difficult because of To earn a scholarship so early in my broken hand during football, but I comparison to students who get one at didn’t want my team to suffer by any the end of their senior year is a truly an means from my small setback,” Luke incredible accomplishment. said. Luke fought hard to secure his Due to Richmond’s wrestling program own personal win, but sadly the team and the talents of Coach Brandon all together did not win the state title. Day, Dan and Luke have their futures Luke Davis “I achieved my personal goal in the paved in the wrestling mats. Luke Davis, a 2020 graduate who won post season with an individual title, an individual title last year, received a but I would trade that to win it with the scholarship for wrestling at Campbell team,” Luke said. University in North Carolina. He has Dan McKiernan, who received his

Sports November 2020 Sports 7 The Blue Devils kick off Fall sports with a rough start but aren’t backing down.

VARSITY FOOTBALL UPDATE With four losses and two wins the Dev- the field. “I feel like we’ve improved a to get noticed by the varsity coaches is a ils face off with Lutheran North for the lot from the last few games, we’ve real- huge honor,” Matthew Misch said. By: Luke Brand first game of the ly come together Despite the circumstances, the team playoffs. After as a team, and I lost in the second round of playoffs to Six weeks into the fall sports seasons, the Devils tied feel like we can Corunna High School 10-27. the Richmond Blue Devils’ Football twenty-two to only go up from team had a rough start and a few very twenty-two with here,” Blake close games, but a hopeful outlook to Almont, they lost said. the playoffs. with a pass into Esselink, who the end zone that was brought up took Almont to to varsity at the victory. end of last year’s After losing season, is now their first two starting at games but defensive end. coming back and One of two beating Yale, the people brought Blue Devils are up to varsity recovering from injuries and moving as a freshman in the past three years is forward to the next game. Of the many Mathew Misch, who is a starting at right Matthew Misch players with injuries, Blake Esselink, guard next to three-year varsity lineman after coming back from a concussion Daniel McKiernan. and missing the first two games, is “I feel like I have been working very healthy again and eager to get back on hard for the past few weeks, and for me Blake Esselink

VARSITY SOCCER UPDATE

By: Luke Brand

Visit the Devil’s Den Drew Matyunas for all your Blue Devil Gear

The Blue Devils’ soccer team, wit team, and we have a good shot at doing height wins and a single loss, had a lot something special this year,” Drew said. of momentum going towards the rest of With three games left in the main sea- their season But after one score each, son the players are feeling good about the Devils lost to Lutheran North in their performance. “It’s going good, we overtime for their first and only game still have a lot of improving to do, and in districts. our main focus going forward is staying With a record of 7-1 the Blue Devils healthy,” Austin Warn said. Austin soccer team was going full steam ahead has been playing varsity soccer for all at the rest of their season. When asked four years of high school and has been how he felt about the season, player and playing soccer for the past 13 years. 586-727-3225 the kicker of the football team, Drew For soccer their season has already ended after they lost to Lutheran North Ext 3666 Matyunas had this to say, “It’s going Austin Warn really good, we’re playing well as a in the first game of districts. Sports November 2020 Sports 8 Girls Fall Sports: Cross Country and Golf By: Madison Schultz day, October 24th. After qualifying for junior Savanna Krywy said. regionals, the girls earned first place. The golfers had an especially fun The girls involved with cross country They competed at states on November season. “Our season went pretty good, and golf have enjoyed being back and 7th at Michigan Internal Speedway. and everyone improved so much. As a playing and competing. Golf completed Golf had a good season, and they their season in October, while cross already miss it and can’t wait for next country completed their season in year’s season. November. “My favorite part of golf this year was being able to build connections with the girls on the team,” senior Melissa Pryzbyl said. For some of the team members, this Jasmine Alfaro was their first time playing ever, and “Our biggest accomplishment this they did great. “My biggest accomplish- season has been the girls’ team being ment this season was scoring a 56, and ranked top three in the region,” junior it was my first time golfing this year,” Abigail Baczewski said. With the crazy pandemic going on Amelia Black in the world, it hasn’t stopped the determined girl’s cross-country team. team we didn’t get much better, but it’s “Covid-19 hasn’t affected our season all about the experience.” senior Amelia much, and I’m super proud of the team Black said. this year,” sophomore Victoria Keller Even though golf didn’t win a lot of said. Abigail Baczewki tournaments, their season was enjoy- There are many different aspects to able. They learned a lot about the game, Some major accomplishments this cross country “My favorite part about and the girls become closer with their season for cross country include the cross country are the speed workout teammates. girls taking 2nd and 1st at their team days because I get to push my limits,” meets. The girls also placed 13th at the senior Jasmine Alfaro said. Jasmine’s Macomb County Championship. personal record is 20.30.09 for a 5k. Savanna Krywy Cross country has had a great season, Cross Country had districts on Satur- Girls Fall Sports: Volleyball and Sideline Cheer By: Abigail Simmons The Varsity Volleyball team is adjust- Each cheerleader has a football buddy Overall, the sideline cheer team is ex- ing well to the new coach and the new who they make a poster for and give cited to be back cheering on the football The fall sports season is underway, and procedures. Charlene West is returning small good luck gifts to the players to team as the season continues. these athletes are excited to get back to coach the Richmond Varsity Volley- motivate and support them. The Varsity Volleyball team and the at it. ball team this year. The team enjoys “I really like having a cheer buddy Sideline Cheer team are very excited to Coach West’s sense of humor and catch because the posters they give us are cool finally be back doing what they love, phrases during practices. and sometimes they are nice enough making new memories, and being with All of the players are thrilled to be to give us treats on Friday morning,” their friends. back with all their friends, making Hudson Davenport said. new memories, and reminiscing on old ones. The team is working hard to make this the best season they can given the circumstances. The Sideline Cheerleaders are thrilled to be back to the track cheering on the Varsity Football Team. They are ecstatic to be coming back off winning back-to- back state titles. All are adjusting well to the new procedures and guidelines they must follow to be able to continue practicing Emma Murphy and cheering. The only senior on the sideline cheer The Varsity Volleyball and Sideline team, Jenna Jaissle, has treasured every Cheer teams are very thrilled that they year of sideline cheer and is going to can share their passions through these miss all the memories she made. sports. “I’m going to miss having fun out on “It is nice being back to playing, but it the track while supporting the football sucks wearing the masks while playing team, and my favorite memory is stand- because it’s harder to breathe,” Emma ing on the R box with Esther during the Sideline Cheer Murphy said. football games,” Jaissle said. Sports November 2020 Features 9 Cooking with Culinary Arts By: Hailey Pitts them with practice, skills, and many ing, and if not, they are in the class- school year. The students will cook a lot techniques they will be able to use in room watching cooking shows. of different foods and get to experiment Richmond High School’s Culinary their future. The safety guidelines in culinary that finding out what they like and dis-like Arts class is a program that lets students During the month of September and the students must follow is the Serve with a variety of food and recipes. learn about the cooking industry and October the students baked cookies Safe Program that they take the first experiment with different types of food and brownies. They cook the same month of culinary. This program teaches See page 13 for a cookie recipe and cooking. Chef Salvatore leads these thing usually for about a week in order the students the cooking safety rules to learn the recipe and maybe use it and the do’s and don’ts. This will teach at home. The students get in partners students how to use the wash- of two, gather their ingredients, read ing, rinsing, and sanitizing the directions slowly, and start making station. Chef Salvatore’s goals their cookies. After they are all finished for his students include the mak-ing their cookies, they eat them and following: passing Serve Safe, then work as a team to clean the kitchen participating every day, and and dishes. not messing around in the “My favorite part about culinary is the kitchen. delicious food we get to eat!” Breanna Culinary Arts is a very fun Majer said. program to be in. Working as There are not many changes a team and getting every- currently in culinary arts. The only thing done together makes it Chef Salvatore difference is the students must wash enjoyable. All the students their desks, wear their masks, and half that have taken culinary so far classes in room 704 of the high school. the class gets to leave five minutes early. have enjoyed it. Washing, rinsing, and sanitizing This class can help students learn The year one students have a two-hour “I love it! I would like a station in the culinary room. knowledge of cooking skills and teach class, and the year two students have future with the culinary arts them how to cook a variety of different a one-hour class. Chef has a prep hour program,” student Eryn Hart foods. Not only is this a great program third hour, where he usually shops for said. for people who want a career with the groceries for the recipes. The stu-dents The students will continue to learn new cooking industry, but it will also provide are usually always in the kitchen cook- recipes and techniques throughout the

Richmond’s AIS Program By: Nick Powers to connect with one another. chinery; you may not be familiar with Richmond High School senior, Preston the three of four-contact rule. Keller Richmond High School students have Keller, sees this opportunity to learn as a explains this safety instruction in detail a great opportunity to learn about heavy beneficial factor to his future. to help people visualize the instruction. equipment through the AIS Program. “As I am preparing to graduate, I am “Three of four contact is when you This class offers safety instructions, planning my future as an electrician,” must always keep 3 of your limbs (arms operating equipment, and repairing the Keller said. “I believe the safety instruc- and legs) on the machine,” Keller said. machinery. tions and the proper use of equipment It is important to make sure to follow This program is offered to the sur- I have been taught at AIS will put me the safety instructions provided by the ahead of my peers.” professionals to prevent injury to him- Keller seems to take full advantage of self and his peers. this program to help teach him import- It is important for students to find a ant lessons he will be taking with him passion throughout their lives, especially to trade school. “Welding and electrical at a young age, and Keller explains how work are the two things I focus on since the AIS Program has helped him and all it is crucial to my future career,” Keller his class-mates prepare for the future. An example of the heavy equipment said. “Working hands on makes us more students will learn about during their Safety instructions are important when interested in what we are learning, and it AIS experience. operating machinery. Keller explains inspires us to work hard in whatever we some of the instructions he has been choose to do in the future,” Keller said. taught during the first few weeks of the The AIS program that Richmond program. Schools offers is very beneficial to many “I feel the most important safety in- students, and it should be a part of the structions are three of four contact at all curriculum for years to come. Senior Preston Keller times, make sure machines are ready be- fore operating, wearing proper footwear rounding districts as well. Not only does and eyewear such as steel toe boots and AIS provide students with hands on safety glasses, and to be aware of your learning, it allows students from multi- surroundings,” Keller said. ple schools who share similar interests If you are not involved in heavy ma- Features November 2020 Features 10 RHS Clubs Meeting Virtually By: Gabe Brockett in that category. Once students sign up, help around the community and pro- is their mission; bringing atten-tion to they will meet online to discuss service jects they do as a whole. Students can pollution and the state of the world is Clubs at Richmond High School are projects they can choose to get involved join at any time. Members are currently one way they do it. Green Club is here starting back up with a few changes with. Members can pick a project working on gathering items to add to for the people and the Earth. Meetings to their meetings. They’ll be meeting that helps a specific group, the high their “Care Closet,” which helps provide have not started, so it is still open for online for safety purposes concerning school, or the community; this choice is toiletries for those in need at RCSD and students to join. Covid-19, but will be working just as based on their interests. Once they are Trinity Lutheran nearby. hard to help students and the community closer to competition, they will compete S.A.D.D. (Advisor- Ed Delore) is stay happy and involved. A few clubs against other schools to see whose writ- a club focused on keeping students that are active in doing this are: ten portion and presentation portion are safe. S.A.D.D. comes together to bring DECA (Advisor- James Wagner) the best. Then, they will meet in person. awareness to a safer, more responsible is a club focused on improving and The Interact (Advisor- Megan Yaek) way of living. Meetings started in Octo- developing business presentation and club is about bringing people together ber and at their next meeting members cooperative skills that can help with to build kindness in the community will be choosing positions and discuss different career paths through academic and around it as well. Interact will help more on this year’s plans. business role play. Students choose what students earn community service by Green Club (Advisor- Preston Treend) career they want to pursue and compete providing them with a list of ways to Keeping the world healthy and clean

Insight on the Music Everyone Loves ♫ By: Mackenzie Stemmerich have concerts. As of now, Thursday, Oc- students go about their daily lives prac- different due to the circumstances tober 22, 2020, the HS Choir will hold a ticing hard and are still ready to put on a Richmond High School has to take Music is a creative part of life and concert in Richmond High School’s Au- great performance Thursday night. because of Covid, the Choir and Mrs. is loved globally. At Richmond High ditorium from 5 to 9 PM. Students are In the classroom, they sing along to Clore included are going to try and give School, it is a very big deal and is pretty working hard all that week to prepare various spectacular songs personally the best experience possible during popular amongst the students. Many and wow the audience for a spectacular picked out by Mrs. Clore and do lots difficult times. have participated in the musical arts concert. Following last year’s previous of fun activities to keep the day busy. and have experienced and learned a lot concerts, this one is sure to be very These include, vocal exercises, group throughout. The music teacher, Mrs. intriguing as well. However, with the activities, participation in school events, Clore, would happily agree as she is pre- pandemic, masks will be re-quired upon and overall learning how to have a sumably very eager to teach the students entry, and there will also be a change stable voice and sing altogether as an that walk into her classroom every day. up of a few things in and out of the ensemble. Although you have music, you also classroom. But the fun still continues as Even though this year is going to be

The New Intro to Digital Art Class for 2020-21 By: Michael Foss design a logo for either the new Intro to This sounds good, though one may All this said, Intro to Digital Art will Digital Art class or the Art Department wonder if students can participate in be a full-fledged art class for those who The Intro to Digital Art class is a new as a whole, and the winners will have the same kinds of competitions as the wish to create art and work digitally us- addition in the 2020-2021 school year, their logos on buttons. other art classes. The answer is yes. ing Photoshop and other programs, with taught by the art director Ms. Kaganac. As for what this class prepares stu- Ms. Kaganac said, “We participate in many opportunities for scholarships and Intro to Digital Art seeks to teach stu- dents for, “Intro to Digital Art prepares Scholastics, Macomb Secondary Show for students to push themselves to great dents how to utilize editing software to students for the digital art ‘world.’ at Anton Center, Congressional success. create photo edits, vector images, and Society is highly motivated by social District Show, NAIAS & SAE Detroit other digital art. media and the digital world. It was very Poster Competition, and Doodle for See page 12 for RHS artwork One may be wondering what stu-dents important that this class was added to Google.” Scholastics and the Doodle may be doing in class. “Students will the art curriculum because this is the for Google are both national level get an intro to Photoshop, exploring the direction in which society is moving,” competitions, and Anton and the Detroit toolbar and user interface and learning Ms. Kaganac said. Poster Competitions are local level how to create art with a focus on graphic With a world moving ever-forward and competitions. design and new media,” Ms. Kaganac the influence of technology ever-grow- Students who participate in these said. ing, it’s crucial the future generation competitions will have a good look Students are still getting the hang of of workers, especially those going into on their college resume, and there are the various aspects of Photoshop and fields of graphic design or fields where scholarship opportunities from these. GIMP and are working on projects it will be needed, know how to operate These competitions truly push students us-ing various aspects of the toolbar. technology well, and in this class, that to put forth effort and see the career Currently students are in a contest to technology is Photoshop. possibilities in the field of art. Features November 2020 Creative Writing 11

Creative Writing November 2020 Creative Corner 12

Creative Corner November 2020 Fun and Games 13

Monster Cookies Recipe Directions: Ingredients: 1. Cream sugars and shortening. Add eggs and peanut butter and beat well. Sugar: 1 cup 2. Gradually add flour, soda, and salt. Add vanilla. Stir Brown sugar: 1 cup in oats and chocolate chips. Shortening: 1 cup 3. Scoop onto a lined sheet pan using red #24 scoop. Peanut Butter: 1 cup Bake at 350 degrees for 8 to 10 minutes Eggs: 3 Flour: 1 1/2 cups Soda 1 tsp. Salt: 1 tsp. Vanilla: 1 tsp. Quick Oats: 2 cups Chocolate chips: 1 cup M&Ms: 1 cup

Features November 2020 About the Writers 14

About the Writers November 2020