Appleton North’s Lauren Sassi completed her first official comic book! For more information about her comics, visit northnoct.com.

Appleton, Wisconsin February 2016 Vol. XXI Issue I

Living with mental illness

Megha Uberoi – an unseen battle Senior Editor-in-chief By Nora Ptacek re you aware that some North students are living with a mental illness? Being a teenager is Awareness: Ahard. It is; we all know it. But being a teenager with a mental illness is even harder. Even so, one student is willing to share her story because she wants other people to know they’re Why it is not alone. Though she might not know you; she cares about you and she knows what you’re going through. The student (who was willing to important speak with the Noctiluca anonymously) was first diagnosed with de- By Megha Uberoi pression and anxiety at the beginning of her junior year. School was hard, and a bullying incident sent her on a downward spiral that she is The best way to show that still trying to come back from. Ever since she could remember she’s had anxiety- you are interested in some- -they used to call it being shy, but it was much more than that. Almost thing is to pay attention to every student turns to their peers or a teacher when they need help. it. Real, undivided attention. Whether it be a quick question about a math problem or details of Giving a person eye contact an assignment, we’ve almost all sought assistance at one time. without any distractions (doo- But it wasn’t like that for her. The anxiety made asking a ques- dling, texting, or gaming on tion feel like a terrifying and daunting task that took hours to the chrome) is becoming rare mentally prepare for. but it is the highest compli- “I have a lot of worries. I worry that other students will judge ment you can pay someone. me if I speak, I worry that teachers will judge me if I go It has become the norm to and ask them for help. And yeah I can “multitask” on everything we get past it and yeah I can paste that do. People will be texting and fake smile on but my heartbeat doing homework. Texting and will start going faster, my hands talking to friends. Texting and will start sweating, I will prob- taking notes. Basically texting ably start shaking. And I’ll just when doing anything. act like I’m cold but I know I am definitely guilty of this what it is,” she said. as are many of my peers. That is why being aware is sort of a Many Appleton North Graphic foreign concept to us. With so students face immense by Morgan pressure. Sometimes it Stuedemann many distractions and so much comes from our Sometimes it to do rather than pay attention, comes from our parents, teach- why should we? ers, or classmates. But a lot of Being aware is not just the times it comes from us. In a polite thing to do, it’s ben- Youth Risk Behavioral Survey eficial to us as well. When we listen and look at what’s going See Ptacek page 5 on around us we often learn something. It does not neces- sarily even have to be learning Appleton North’s Noctiluca is online in a scholarly sense. By listening and looking Are you aware that Appleton www.northnoct.com at what is going on around us, North’s Noctiluca went online this Featuring polls, photo galleries, we can learn so much about year? The editorial board worked over sports updates, and more, the student other people and from other the summer to launch the website. Us- newspaper hopes to keep students in- people. Even taking the time ing Student Newspapers Online, or formed about their school community. to have a real conversation what we call SNO, the staff created All printed articles can be found on the with someone with no distrac- the format and learned how to edit the mobile friendly site following publica- tions is so much more concrete website. This new website offers im- tion. If you would like to contribute mediate access to current school news please find us on social media or come for students and staff. to one of our meetings. See Uberoi, page 2 ARE YOU AWARE? Appleton, Wisconsin February 2016 Volume XXI Issue I Page 2 North student population exceeds 1,700 By Erik Bakken in staff members, as more Are you aware that Apple- teachers and support staff are ton North’s entire student required to maintain a feasible population has exceeded 1700 ratio of students to staff. this year? This figure includes Along with these changes students from the Appleton and challenges, there are more Career Academy, Renaissance opportunities open to North School for the Arts and Tesla students because of the student Engineering Charter School. population growth. In the past, The fluctuating size of the stu- advanced courses such as AP dent community at North has Physics, AP Calc BC and AP generally grown due to many Statistics were not able to run factors, producing both chal- every year because of a lack of lenges and benefits for stu- students to fill classes. Now, dents and staff. with a larger student body, There are several factors more classes are recurrently behind the surge in student available and full. Staff have population at North, the most expressed their excitement for prominent being the increased the increase in curricular op- open enrollment at North. portunities. More students who live in “It’s definitely positive that boundary areas are choosing This bar graph depicts the number of students for all grades at Appleton North, a greater number of students to come to North for region- Appleton Career Academy, Tesla and Renaissance. Growth in the number of stu- means a greater number of ally acclaimed programs such courses for students,” said Mrs. dents has caused scheduling conflicts and opportunities. Graphic by Erik Bakken as music, theater and sports. Baker. In general, North receives the gym and PFM have become As for North’s future stu- most open enrolled students of North’s Student Population more difficult to secure a dent population, it is not en- the high schools in the AASD. Data as of Sept. 18, 2015. place in, and class sizes have tirely clear as to whether it will Another external factor in- North ACA Tesla Renaissance sometimes swelled in required continue to grow. If so, city fluencing the growth in student Freshmen 414 37 1 6 courses. “The PFM courses that school boundaries may even- population is increased preva- Sophomores 410 24 2 4 I teach have become more full. tually be modified in order to lence of businesses such as Juniors 376 27 3 6 I would say that they’ve grown equally distribute students at Kimberly Clark and Thrivent Seniors 414 23 2 10 in size from around 25 students each of the three Appleton high in the community since North to around 30 students,” North schools. opened, drawing more families PFM teacher Mrs. Roberta Additionally, if the city of into the Appleton area. of the greatest challenges per- same courses, scheduling has Baker said. Appleton grows significantly, a Because of the growth in tains to scheduling conflicts become more rigid in many Similar growth is evident fourth Appleton school may be North’s student population, with many students. “Because cases,” associate Principal across many required courses constructed in order to curb the some challenges are posed to there is a greater number of Dave Pynenberg said. at North. The student growth influx of students attending the both students and staff. One students who want to take the Required courses such as often translates to an increase three existing high schools. Uberoi: AASD seeks new Awarness importance, public bus policy from page 1 By Ally Price than a conversation interrupted There are many different Related Editorial by tweets and updates to your ways that Appleton North stu- Creating a public bus line snapchat story. dents get to school every day. that serves all students This is partially the reason Some drive themselves. Some equally, Page 5 why the staff of the Noctiluca walk. Some take the school Talks have resumed between Valley Transit and decided to dedicate a whole is- bus. And some take the city school at 3:10 p.m. AASD Assistant Superintendent Ben Vogel. Photo by sue to awareness. We collected stories that (we feel) students bus. The fact that the bus is a Katharine Hackney should be aware about ranging Taking the Valley Tran- peak stop rather than a regular from student features to policy sit city bus is an option at stop can be problematic for stop. The bus stop is seen school and doesn’t come back changes. all three of the major high kids who rely on the city bus means that students who rely by many as something that Giving these stories the schools across the city as well for transportation to school. on it for transportation can’t would greatly help students in coverage they deserve is hope- as at the middle schools, but “Because the bus only comes take part in after-school ac- poverty or with mental health fully a small step towards be- the bussing system makes twice a day, if someone who tivities, whether it be a sport, and attendance issues, since a ing more aware. Awareness it much harder at Appleton relies on the bus to get to a club, theater, or even attend- majority of students who rely will make us more compas- North. school misses the morning ing events like football games on the city bus fall into this sionate and knowledgeable. While Appleton East and bus, they have no way to get or plays. category. So take out the earbuds, look West are regular bus stops, to school and will likely end “Not giving these students While as of right now, there up from your phone and give meaning that the bus stops up missing the whole day,” easy access to transportation are no immediate plans, ne- people the attention they de- are once an hour, Appleton said Mrs. Debbie Strick, Ap- after school is cutting off an gotiations between Assistant serve. There is so much going North is a peak stop, meaning pleton North’s social worker. entire population of our stu- Superintendent Ben Vogel on around you if you just pay the bus only stops here during “Whereas if North became a dent body,” said Mrs. Strick. and Valley Transit have been attention. peak traffic hours; for North, regular bus stop, they could Over the past year, she has taking place, and attempts are Megha Uberoi is a senior and that means the bus stops here catch the next bus and only been involved in contacting being made at making North Editor-in-Chief of the Noc- twice – once before school miss an hour or two of class.” Valley Transit to advocate a regular stop on the bus line. tiluca. Contact her through at 7:17 a.m. and once after The bus leaves right after making North a regular bus school e-mail or Facebook. ARE YOU AWARE? Appleton, Wisconsin February 2016 Volume XXI Issue I Page 3 Changes to school attendance policy spark criticism By Rachel Flom With that, and the policy Many teachers are also Are you aware that the change at the beginning of the very willing to create plans Appleton Area School District school year, a student can end and schedules to get students changed its attendance policy? up in truancy court without caught up again. Some students In previous years, policy stated much warning. feel as though they receive the that students would either be Letters are issued out to most grief from secretaries, counted as missing one half or families once a student has whose job it is to inform stu- one full school day. reached seven days of absence, dents of issues regarding their With this policy in place, but delays in the post office and attendance. students who missed a class address changes might result in According to Berlowski, period for an appointment or a family not knowing that their deans from Appleton North slept through their alarm would child is at risk for being truant. met with the District Office to be considered missing for up Although the student hand- address issues regarding the to four school periods, even if book was updated with the new policy. that was not the reality. policy, families were not di- They decided that atten- Some students would in- rectly notified when the district dance will now by counted tentionally miss extra class policy changed at the begin- by the minutes a student is at periods because they would be ning of this school year, which school instead of counting by considered absent regardless of resulted in even more students days or half-days. their actual attendance. being forced into court. Those minutes will be Since students are given 10 Many students did not even added up to equate to the al- excused absences before they find out about the policy until lowed 10 school days, which are considered truant, appoint- they were pulled out of their hopefully will decrease the ments, family emergencies, second hour class and given a amount of truant students dur- and illnesses can push a stu- detention slip. The Student Services office is in charge of inputting ing the 2015-2016 school year. Families have still not been in- dent to reach that limit before The irony behind this is that absences into Infinite Campus. Photo by Sofia Voet the end of the school year. students are pulled out of yet formed about how this policy After the switch from Par- another class to be informed injured her ankle during a run. enough, students have to come change will work. ent Portal to Infinite Campus, that they missed a class, which “I think [the policy] is stu- back to a staff that blames them There is still the question it has also been increasingly most students are clearly aware pid. I have an injury and I was for missing school, even when of how these minutes will add more difficult to find exactly of. threatened with truancy even situations state otherwise. up, if it counts as so many min- how many days a student has Many students were not though I have been turning in Some staff at Appleton utes per class period or per day. been absent, since the website pleased to hear about the initial doctor’s slips,” said DeShaney. North have been extremely ac- Will lunch periods be counted? does not add up the total num- policy change. Students with Other circumstances like commodating to students who What about privileges and re- ber of absences. Although stu- chronic health issues were be- that have led to students requir- miss school. Matthew Ber- leases? dents can see how many class ing threatened with truancy ing absences for physical ther- lowski, one of two deans at the Students and parents still periods they’ve missed, they for visiting doctors. Cheyenne apy and other types of therapy, school, has been willing to sit have many questions for the can’t check how many total DeShaney, a senior at Apple- surgery, and appointments. down with students to go over school, the most pressing one days they’ve missed during the ton North, says that staff were As if having to catch up the policy and where students being, “When will we be in- school year. not accommodating when she with homework and tests isn’t stand with it. formed?” New WIAA chant rules are ruining high school sports By Benji Backer on chants like these is why with a rule like this, the draw The WIAA has crossed my generation is turning into to sports will be significantly the line and it is time that a generation full of “victims.” less due to limited competi- student-athletes take a stand Rules like this are teaching tiveness. In fact, students will against it. youth to be offended when be less willing to join sports High school sports are fun they shouldn’t be. Not every- in general. If there is no com- and beneficial to success. At thing is offensive and rude. petitiveness, there is no point. the same time, they are meant The WIAA obviously cannot Lastly, If WIAA does this, to be competitive. They are look past that. what is next? Seriously. What also supposed to prepare Secondly, these bans ruin would be next? If we can’t student-athletes for the next competitiveness. Chants from do these “offensive” chants level: collegiate athletics. a student section pump up to pump up the players and In college, there are count- the players and the teams. students, what can we do? Is less chants and anthems that No matter who is chanting, WIAA going to ban signs? each school’s student section it pumps student-athletes up. Are they going to ban chants The student sections at sports games are usually full of creates. Some of them are If the opposing student sec- all together? The WIAA shouting and excitement. Photo by Alex Neumann vulgar. While those are not tion is chanting “you can’t do might as well ban student family-friendly or necessary others. Despite the outrage tion as to why the WIAA finds that,” it gives athletes motiva- sections. As Wisconsin sports for a sporting event, they are from high schoolers and the chants offensive. Is telling tion to show them what they anchor Bill Michaels said in a part of the atmosphere. adults, the WIAA has stayed the opposing team that their can do. It angers us, but it also Facebook post: “at this rate, While I do not think that true to their course. In fact, team is losing offensive? Is pumps us up. If the chant is why keep score?” those types of chants should the WIAA alerted a Wiscon- chanting “you can’t do that” from our own student-section, This is a losing battle for the be permitted in a high school sin high school about a stu- to a player who caused a pen- it gives us confidence. WIAA and a huge dagger in setting, that is reality on a col- dent who tweeted against the alty disrespectful? Is that what Having a supporting crowd the heart of Wisconsin high lege level. In addition, those policy. She was suspended we, as a society, have come with competitive chants is school sports. If they don’t vulgar chants are prohibited from her basketball team for to? If so, what isn’t offensive key to success as a team. It reverse this policy, they don’t from high schools already. five games. These new re- anymore? makes the event more com- deserve to run high school The WIAA wants to pro- strictions are absurd for a The politically-correct cul- petitive and ultimately more sports in Wisconsin. This is hibit chants such as: “USA,” multitude of reasons. ture in this country has gone enjoyable for both teams. It’s sports, not book club. Let’s “you can’t do that,” “score- First of all, I’m still waiting over the top and this situation hard enough to get students keep it that way. board,” “air ball,” and many to hear a reasonable explana- is a prime example. The ban to attend sporting events, but ARE YOU AWARE? Appleton, Wisconsin February 2016 Volume XXI Issue I Page 4

Noctiluca Mission Statement America’s growing obesity problem The Noctiluca and northnoct.com By Salma Abdel-Azim obese. This is in part because be taught better habits, such are the student-run news sources Are you aware that obesity caloric intake of sugary drinks poorer neighborhoods tend to as eating vegetables and eat- of Appleton North High School. is plaguing America and soci- has almost tripled. 50 percent ing healthy meals, that will Noctiluca and northnoct.com are eties all over the world? It is of Americans consume fast have many more fast food res- stay with them as adults. Also, designated public forums for stu- a big issue around the world food weekly and 75 percent of taurants than grocery stores. school lunches need to be dent expression. Student editors and is discussed widely. Ac- them, monthly. This means that fresh, healthy healthier, without sacrificing make all content decisions. cording to PublicHealth.org, Only one-third of adults ex- food is limited. In fact, about Noctiluca’s mission is to publish taste and amounts. Students currently, one in every three ercise the recommended daily 23.5 million Americans do not information relevant to its readers should feel satisfied, both by adults is obese and so are one amount and children spend have access to a supermarket and its community. Its goal is to taste and amount, at the end of in every four children in the about 7.5 hours of screen within a mile of their homes. maintain high ethical standards time per day. All of these fac- TV, video games, and other a lunch hour. Parks should be and provide a designated public U.S., making our country one electronic devices contrib- built in more neighborhoods to forum for free and responsible of the world’s most obese na- tors contribute to the fact that ute greatly to the obesity of encourage children to exercise expression of views. tions. Studies have shown that Americans burn 130 calo- more. Screen time should be The newspaper and website by the year 2030, over half ries less daily in comparison America. While parents feel lowered and fun, engaging ac- welcome diversity of scope, depth of Americans will be obese, at ease when their children tivities should be encouraged. and breadth of coverage in order which will add 6 million cas- “Encouraging are at home, this does have a Exercise should be looked at to heighten mutual understanding es of diabetes, 5 million cases exercise and healthy cost. Many children engage and awareness through our entire as fun and not as a form of of heart disease and stroke, in “mindless eating” while community. eating will ensure a torture. In addition, healthy and over 4 hundred thousand watching TV or playing video Appleton North High School food everywhere should be in- cases of cancer. This issue is better society.” games for lack of anything 5000 N. Ballard Road else to do. creased. More grocery stores Appleton, WI 54913 so serious that our generation So what needs to change? should be built, so people have Phone: (920) 832-4300 will be the first generation to 1970, which compounds We need to start at the root access to healthy food. Mr. Ramponi, staff advisor, with a life expectancy that is into 31,000 calories annually. If we rectify the mistakes at: [email protected]. lower than our parents. In addition, the financial sta- of the problem. According to our society has made, we can wi.us. Forty years ago, this was tus of the families is an added Michael Rosenbaum, author become a more healthy soci- not an issue, so what has factor to obesity. In communi- of a CNN episode discussing ety and reduce the disease rav- Editorial Staff changed? Americans are ties whose families earn under obesity, “One way is to focus aging our nation. Encouraging consuming about 25 percent $15,000, ⅓ are obese. In com- on obesity prevention, which Senior Editor-In-Chief munities whose families earn starts in the home, school and exercise and healthy eating Megha Uberoi more calories. In comparison community.” Children need to will ensure a better society. Co-Junior Editor-In-Chief to 1970, the percentage of the over $50,000, ¼ of them are Nora Ptacek Erik Bakken Managing Editor Noctiluca Editorial Elise Painton News Editor Creating a public bus line that serves all students equally Katharine Hackney Are you aware that there is for the past year. This proj- Opinions Editor Kate Bennett no hourly bus line to North? ect, lead by various members Features Editor For many students, when the of staff and administration, is Rachel Flom final bell rings, the real day aimed to serve those at North Co-Centerspread Editor begins. Teenagers all through- without the financial means or Fatima Ali out the school rush to soccer capability of taking a school Leah Dreyer practice or theater rehearsal, bus or providing their own Culture Editor Maddy Schilling not a thought in the world transportation. Mrs. Strick, Sports Editor about how they’ll be getting the school’s social worker, AJ Floodstrand home afterward. However, for has been one of the main staff Photography Editor students who can’t afford the members involved in the proj- Sofia Voet luxury of a personal vehicle ect. “This route will serve stu- Copy Editor or whose parents are unable to dents who are living in pov- Abby Davies Advertising/Social Media pick them up, this thought is erty, and those whose health Rachel Brosman everything. issues make it difficult to get to Many North students take the Valley Transit bus home Graphics Editor The city of Appleton is for- school right away in the morn- from school every day. Photo by Rachel Flom Morgan Stuedemann tunate enough to be endowed ing, allowing them to at least involved are required to par- economic situation doesn’t af- Online Editor with a public bus system. make it for part of the school ticipate in extracurriculars at ford them the luxury of a per- Abby Plankey Running Monday through day,” she said. North, as their school does not Advisor sonal vehicle. Mr. Ramponi Saturday, this invaluable re- This new bus line will also contain the necessary facilities Fortunately, there may be a source provides a method of allow many students the abil- or student population. Howev- line on the way. Assistant Su- Contributors transportation throughout the ity to participate in after school er, there is no method of move- perintendent Ben Vogel has Salma Abdel-Azim Fox Cities, making hourly activities that before were un- ment between the schools; the had ongoing conversations Fatima Ali trips to all of its seventeen available to them. Kids who Benji Backer bus only stops at North once with Fox Valley Transit in an Erik Bakken established routes. Of these normally avoid going out for in the afternoon, and the VNS attempt to create additional bus Kate Bennett seventeen, there are two sepa- sports and theater would no kids get out too late to catch it. lines. The goal of this project Rachel Brosman rate routes that carry passen- longer be held back by the lack This creates a barrier for many is to have a bus run to North Maddie Clark gers directly in front of both of available night time trans- economically challenged kids, several times a day and into the Rachel Flom Appleton East and Appleton portation. whose parents are unable to evening. AJ Floodstrand West high schools. Appleton “The bus will increase student Katharine Hackney drive them or may not even The establishment of a steady Olivia Molter North, on the other hand, is involvement at school. Every- own a car themselves. bus route to Appleton North is Elise Painton scheduled on a “peak hour” one will be able to cheer on the This lack of accessibility hurts crucial to our school’s acces- Ally Price route, providing busing only football team or see the musi- not only students, but their par- sibility and sense of equality. Nora Ptacek twice a day, before and after cal, regardless of their eco- ents as well. If parents have no Without this reliable form of Jack Russell school. For students who use nomic status,” said Mrs. Strick. way of getting to the school, transportation, many students Maeve Salm the Valley Transit, this means Students who take classes at Maddy Schilling how can they be expected to will miss out on many invalu- Morgan Stuedemann that there’s no way of getting alternative schools also suffer meet with administration, fill able opportunities that high Sonia Tallorth home past 3:05. from the lack of public trans- out paperwork, and attend con- school can offer, robbing them Megha Uberoi At North, there has been an port. ferences? Things that most of of countless social and educa- Sofia Voet attempt to get an established Those learning at the Valley us take for granted would be tional experiences. Jacob Zajkowski public bus route in the works New School who wish to be unavailable to those whose ARE YOU AWARE? Appleton, Wisconsin February 2016 Vol. XXI Issue I Page 5 Ptacek: an unseen battle, from page 1

(YRBS) done with Appleton During the past 30 days, how many days was your mental health not TO GET HELP North freshmen and juniors, good? (Mental health includes stress, depression, and problems with If you or someone you when asked: “During the past know needs help cop- 30 days, how many days was emotions.) ing with mental illness or your mental health not good? thoughts of suicide please “(Mental health includes stress, contact one of these re- depression, and problems with sources for confidential as- emotions)” only 40.3 percent sistance: of freshmen and 35.7 percent National Alliance on of juniors answered 0 days; Mental Illness Fox Valley- the rest of them answered any- http://www.namifoxvalley. where from 1 to over 14 days. org/ During the past 12 months, 29 Prevent Suicide Fox Cit- percent of juniors felt so sad ies-http://www.preventsui- and/or hopeless almost every cidefoxcities.org/ day for two weeks or more in School resources such a row that they stopped doing as the school psychologist some usual activities. Mrs. Strick. Mental illness affects many students, even if others can’t everything worse because she visibly observe it. Rarely is is a very high achieving student depression simply the people and she wants to be successful. with dark clothes, or an aloof Statistic taken from the Youth Risk Behavioral Survey (YRBS) conducted at Though this student feels attitude. So many students with Appleton North. Statistic indicates responses of North Freshman class. Graphics by alone, she is most certainly not depression are immensely suc- Nora Ptacek the only student who experi- cessful in their academic and that’s linked to mental illness. ences mental illness. Accord- extracurricular lives, but also During the past 12 months, did you ever feel “I’ve stopped eating because I ing to the National Alliance on successful in hiding their pain. so sad or hopeless almost every day for two don’t want to live anymore. But Mental Illness, 1 in 5 youth, or “If you saw me in the hallway, weeks or more in a row that you stopped I don’t want to end it all rapidly, 20 percent (ages 13-18) have or if you sat next to me in class, doing some usual activities? in one rapid fire decision. So I a diagnosable mental illness. you wouldn’t be able to tell that just stopped eating because that Maybe this is you. Maybe it’s this is something that I struggle Statistic taken from the way it will eventually be done your friend, your neighbor, sib- with. Unless I told you,” she but it will take awhile. It’ll be ling or classmate. But whoever Youth Risk Behavioral said. It’s really hard for her to long, it’ll be drawn out, it’ll be it may be, they need to know keep a positive persona on at Survey (YRBS) conduct- more painful for me, but I can they’re not alone. They need to school; to constantly pretend ed at Appleton North. Sta- always turn back if I need to.” know that you recognize what that it’s okay when it is quite tistic indicates responses of You might see her laughing they’re going through and that the opposite. The night of the North Junior class. in the hallway but will never you are aware of their struggles. intense bullying incident she know she’s only eaten a protein This is what she said: “What I decided she wanted to kill her- everywhere she walked. She though she knows and under- bar and protein shake. That’s also want people to know is self and that it was not worth has what’s called passive sui- stands that other people never just to keep her going until 4 that I really need your support living anymore. That terrifying cidal thoughts which are de- see her that way, it doesn’t p.m. where she can go home right now and I just really need night, she ended up in the hos- fined by the Valley Behavioral change the way she sees her- and sleep until the next morn- to know that you care. There’s pital but knew it wasn’t worth Health system as a desire to self. Just recently she stopped ing. She’s falling behind in all nothing really other people can it and that she could get herself die, but without a specific plan eating in a very conscientious her schoolwork because she do except let me know that they out. At school the next day it for carrying out the death. Even and controlled manner. She de- just can’t get it done now that care, because I don’t care any- was back to normal. An out- just walking through the hall- scribes it as an eating disorder she just sleeps. And that makes more.” sider could never guess what ways at North she thinks “may- happened that night; would be it would be better if you just never know how close she was popped the pills, or just crashed to not returning to Appleton that car,” but she always push- “If you saw me in es those thoughts away. “When the hallway, or if you have depression you don’t see the world the way other you sat next to me in people see the world. You see class, you wouldn’t the world through a veil...that be able to tell that makes everything grayed out, this is something that not visually but emotionally. I struggle with.” You feel pain. That’s what a lot of people don’t get.” She des- North. “The depression makes perately wants to help others. everything really hard because But what worsened the when you have depression, depression was the realization half the time you feel sad and that she must help herself be- half the time you feel nothing fore she can begin to help oth- at all,” she said. She went on a ers. Even that was a struggle new medication, started to see because she sees herself in a a new counselor and things got different light. So many look a bit better but senior year was at her and see beautiful, smart, devastating. funny, and wise. This student Two more doctors and an sees herself as stupid, ugly, increased dosage later she felt awkward, as someone people constantly tired and never her- don’t want to spend time with, self. The depression hung over and someone who doesn’t de- her like a cloud, following her serve to have friends. Even Are you UW Eau Claire Riley Dougherty Intended Major(s): Undecided What attracted you to the campus? The small class sizes and the beautiful campus made it ideal for me. aware? Did North classes prepare you academically for college? Yes, North really helped me. I had 12 credits from taking AP classes going into college. When Appleton North students start thinking about applying to colleges, many look no further than the UW schools, especially since there are twen- ty-six campuses in the UW Extension which pro- vide affordable and good quality education. Here, the Noctiluca features six of the four-year universities many of last year’s graduates attended.

UW Oshkosh Blake Ebben Intended Major(s): Business What attracted you to the campus? The huge net- work the school provides and being able to stay in- volved while attending. Did North classes prepare you academically for college? Yes, but it mainly depends on student drive because some people prepare less and some people prepare more in high school.

UW Madison Alexander Reis Intended Major(s): Business Psychology and Spanish What attracted you to the campus? The beautiful, vibrant atmosphere of Madison with plenty of music, art, and fun. Did North classes prepare you academically for col- lege? Yes, North did help prepare me for the academ- ic rigor but only college experience could really prepare me for college.

A reflection on select UW Schools Are you UW Green Bay Katie Henning Intended Major(s): Science of Nursing aware? What attracted you to the campus? Its affordability and connection with Bellin College’s nursing program. Did North classes prepare you academically for college? Yes, coming in with college credits from AP and CAPP classes really put me ahead of the other When Appleton North students. students start thinking about applying to colleges, many look no further than the UW schools, especially since there are twen- ty-six campuses in the UW Extension which pro- vide affordable and good quality education. Here, the Noctiluca features six of the four-year universities many of last year’s graduates attended. UW Milwaukee Chris Cudnowski Intended Major(s): Undecided What attracted you to the campus? The relatively close proximity to home and the condenseness of the campus. Did North classes prepare you academically for college? Yes, the AP classes helped me understand the amount of work I’d have in college and also reminded me that I have to balance class work and extracurriculars.

UW Whitewater Cynthia Lor Intended Major(s): Marketing What attracted you to the campus? The benefit of Whitewater’s successful Business program along with the homey environment the city offers. Did North classes prepare you academically for college? Yes, North prepared me not only for aca- demic classes but also my on-campus job. A reflection on select UW Schools ARE YOU AWARE? Appleton, Wisconsin February 2016 Vol. XXI Issue I Page 8 Appleton North’s Improvedy reaches new heights By Jacob Zajkowski done in a while. Are you aware of the most A rookie to the Improvedy side-splitting club at Appleton scene, sophomore Sam Strat- North? Improvedy, the local ton is experiencing his first improv troupe, has been going year of the antics of the troupe. on for almost sixteen years, Stratton’s love of comedy and the laughs just keep com- drew him to the shows and ing. eventually the club. “I feel like Improvedy is a comedy we’re a really close group of troupe that performs based friends that love to do funny on skits and games that are stuff on stage and make each changed and suggested by the other, and people watching, crowd. Improvedy is the only laugh until their sides ache.” improv group in Appleton run Appleton North’s Improvedy Troupe features new and returning members for the To Stratton, Improvedy is by a high school, according 2015-2016 school year. Their next show is on Feb. 13 at 7:30 p.m., and tickets a great way to express himself and show who he is. “It’s also to the Appleton North The- are $5 at the door. Doors open at 7 p.m. Photo from Appleton North Theatre atre webpage. This group of a great way to try out new nine even leads workshops audition and join Improvedy: with all of the other Improvedy Russell defines Improvedy puns,” he added. When asked at businesses and performs “I thought they were cool, and members as a team,” Knutson as, “being in a room of about rehearsal, Stratton said: for parties. The improv group I liked their show.” Despite said. One expectation Knutson clowns, and you can’t leave “We play improv games to consists of Appleton North stu- how fun it looked, she knew doesn’t like is the assump- until you’ve told a joke.” help get better at maintaining dents ranging from freshmen the commitment she needed to tion that she is funny all of the Russell enjoys experimenting a good stage presence, coming to seniors, featuring students make to be a part of the troupe. time. with what’s funny on stage: up with things on the spot... such as Emma Knutson, Jack Improvedy members meet Another two-time member “It’s incredibly rewarding to and other stuff that helps us Russell, Sam Stratton, Claire weekly to rehearse, creating of Improvedy, senior Jack Rus- be funny, but even more so be funny when we are in front Riebau, Brett Peters, Timo- suggestions of ideas they think sell describes his experiences from failing big.” His only of an audience.” Stratton is thy Rausch. Ben Wylie, Saul people will suggest during with Improvedy. “I’d seen Improvedy-related pet peeve exhilarated for the upcoming Roselaar, and Alyssa Gruen- their performances. the shows a lot during middle is the pre-show. He said, “The show on Feb. 13. “The goal is der. During the shows, Im- school and thought they were part I dislike the most is the to have fun and make people Emma Knutson, a junior provedy members explain the interesting,” said Russell when ten or fifteen minutes before laugh, which I think is really this year and one of only two rules for certain games and asked why he joined. Having the show...I just want to show cool.” girls in the troupe, has been in skits and then create scenes tried out as a freshman and people now.” Russell’s favorite Improvedy’s shows are Improvedy for two years. In an based off of suggestions from sophomore, Russell finally part of the troupe is trying out based off of the TV show interview with Knutson, she the audience. “My favorite joined Improvedy in his junior the new games and skits, espe- “Whose Line Is It Anyway?” was asked why she decided to thing is probably getting to be year at North. cially ones that haven’t been National Novel Writing Month in November gains new participants By Jacob Zajkowski Outline October and Editing participates in NaNoWriMo. December if I decide I want Her novel this year is about Are you aware that writ- to seriously consider getting two teenage girls and the high ers recently embarked on the book published.” It has school troubles they face. NaNoWriMo or National become a goal for McDermott When asked why she chose Novel Writing Month in to write all fifty thousand this she said, “I think it is a November? NaNoWriMo is words. very relatable story and is a non-profit organization that Another participant is something that a lot of people supplies schools around the Madeline Clark, and she in high school could connect world with classroom kits shares Cecelia’s goals for to.” and other things needed for a someday completing a novel. This is Pisciotta’s second successful education, all at no She has been a member of year as a participant; she was cost to the schools. During NaNoWriMo for less than a introduced by an author, Amy November, countless writers month and was introduced by Zhang, that had just gotten her worldwide write stories of a friend of hers. novel published. The author 50,000 words for NaNoW- Although this is her first explained that it had started as riMo. Participants can get year, Clark plans on continu- a NaNoWriMo draft, and Pi- support from locals in their ing because she thinks it is a sciotta was immediately taken community and meet new Margaux Pisciotta begins writing the first chapter of fun and engaging experience, with the idea. She managed people, and they even get pep her realistic fiction novel for National Novel Writing and she has more things to to complete all 50,000 words talks from published authors! Month 2015. This will be her second novel complet- write about. Her introduc- during her freshman year. Story genres range from ed through NaNoWriMo. Photo by Rachel Flom tion to NaNoWriMo has not Her passion for writing, and realistic fiction to fantasy, affected her social life, but the pressure of the time limit, and everything in between. Writers even walk among the homework. it has affected how fast she keeps bringing Pisciotta back Participants of NaNoWriMo North High population. This year, she wrote about does her homework. Clark for another month of writing. also look forward to the One of them is Cece- people who can hear some- has chosen to write a fanfic- Her message to everyone is, “Night of Writing Danger- lia McDermott who found one else’s thoughts, and they tion based on the characters “If you’ve ever even thought ously”, a writing marathon NaNoWriMo three years ago must find the other person written by Rick Riordan in about writing a novel before in San Francisco at the Julia via a YouTube video of a before the voice will go away. the Heroes of Olympus; she but have been too intimidated Morgan Ballroom. Hundreds participant. Since November She loves to write and would chose this because she enjoys to do it, try NaNoWriMo...” of writers congregate here to is the only time she pursues recommend NaNoWriMo to his writing. NaNoWriMo is a way for get ahead in their novels and writing outside of academics, anyone. “As long as you go in When asked about what writers of all ages to share talk with their peers. McDermott plans on continu- with an idea and a little moti- she wants to gain from their stories; a place where This international event ing to participate in NaNoW- vation, you can achieve what NaNoWriMo, Clark said “I writers can get support from has many participants in our riMo. Although she partici- you never thought possible” just want my writing to get local peers and make new own community. According to pates, school always comes she said. McDermott hopes out there and for people to friends worldwide. Many peo- nanowrimo.com, the Fox Cit- first. McDermott doesn’t even to finish a novel someday like it.” ple fall into their inner writers ies wrote almost one million like to start writing if it means during NaNoWriMo. “...that A sophomore at North during November and share words in five days this year! she won’t be able to finish her probably means an extreme named Margaux Pisciotta also their stories to the world. ARE YOU AWARE? Appleton, Wisconsin February 2016 Vol. XXI Issue I Page 9 Pop goes the world: Music returns to its roots By Jack Russell Smith and Adele’s new hit Moon - and pretty soon that In the 20th and 21st centu- singles of the past year hear- genre will be exhausted. ries alone, pop music has un- ken back to a simpler time The reason we are going dergone massively significant when we sang about what re- back to our roots with more stylistic shifts, mainly due to ally mattered, and didn’t need traditional pop instruments, is the compelling societal and all of the fluff of shiny, chrome because we’re rebooting a little cultural changes our nation studio magic. Hozier reminds bit from exhaustion. We build has experienced. The classic us of our beloved gospel sing- up a sound, and build up an- country of Marty Robbins and ers from the 60’s south, albeit other, and keep increasing the Johnny Cash paved the way with an Irish and very much in- arrangements of electronics for Fleetwood Mac and The the-present-day twinge. We’ve and different layers until we’ve Jackson Five. Guns N’ Roses entered a time where, it is my created something unlisten- led the scene to leave room for great pleasure to announce, able: dubstep and trap. This is Oasis and Sunny Day Real Es- we’ve started to use real instru- a theory I like to call “Rev The- ments to write and record real ory.” We rev up new sounds tate. Even Britney Spears left Pop artist Sam Smith, pictured above, is an example the limelight; the likes of Katy music again. and styles over the years, like a of the recycled genres of today. Photo Courtesy of Purple Perry (and yes, Fetty Wap) We’ve exhausted our instru- manual gear on a car, until that PR. ments, and it’s time to start genre gets exhausted (or gear). took focus. but we’re seeing some patterns. Many events in our current However, something quite fresh. We then shift gears, and we start “Those who fail to learn from generation have roots, similari- When it comes to pop mu- anew, evolving more sounds peculiar is happening in today’s history are doomed to repeat ties, or even carbon copies of music world. We’re repeating sic, genres change not only along the way after we’ve re- it.” In almost every case, this events that happened in the past because of society, culture, and turned to our roots for a bit. ourselves. The cycling genres phrase has irrefutable weight century. With that, we’re seeing of yesterday are now coming significant current events; our We are currently in the fraction to it. Y2K spawned a techno- resurgences in cultural breaks. music world exhausts certain of time between the peak of a full circle. Hozier. Adele. Sam logical revolution with the ex- Political activism is at a record Smith. Notice the homages instruments and styles. We go “gear” and the next rev state, pansion of the Internet, much high. from jazz, to rock and roll, to where we need to bring back paid to Billy Joel. Sinatra. Tom like the industrial revolution of Therefore, music, art, and Waits. Popular music has al- proggy stuff, grunge, and now traditional pop, piano, guitar, 1900 onward. The recession of general media is starting to indie pop/indie rock. The way and the human voice. ways been an evolutionary art 2008 reminded us of the Great browse through the past; mu- and we as a culture evolve with it works, is that once we’ve Pop music isn’t just affected Depression. Even the supreme sic is starting to strip down its realized that anyone can play by the world around us, it also it, but strangely enough, we’re court decision of June 25th, sound, abandoning the electric reverting back to a better time, jazz or grunge, it’s time to has to do with us becoming too 2015, to legalize homosexual instruments of two decades move on. It’s only a matter of musically comfortable with a simpler time. We’ve been marriage had roots in the de- ago, the synths and breakbeats taking a closer look back at our time that the underground folks ourselves. And we’re not quite segregation of the south in the of yesterday, and choosing to at school realize that just about sure if we like that. So it may past. And here’s why. 1960s: freeing a social minority strike up the piano, acoustic The world is still changing, anyone can become the Foals, be time to switch our gears and from abuse and torment. guitar, and soulful voice. Sam or Wavves, or even Walk The start fresh. Musical therapy improves personal wellness By Maeve Salm and be an effective and positive improve personal wellness, re- edgeable person is required to Maddy Schilling supplement for accomplishing lieve stress and pain, regulate help with treatments. Why do we like music? For a variety of tasks, whether it emotions, improve memory, Jacie Jones, a current Ap- most people, the first answers be improving cognitive ability, enhance communication skills pleton North senior, volun- that comes to mind may in- regulating emotions, or coping and increase physical mobility, teered for two years assisting clude “it motivates me,” “it’s with specific gene irregulari- among other things. Devine within several large a great distraction when I’m ties. Expressive Therapies, LLC group therapy sessions, primar- bored,” or a straightforward, “I Because of the many com- of Appleton, owned and oper- ily working with children. “We just do.” However, some might pelling connections humans ated by Sara Devine MT-BC, just had the kids practice com- say that the simple plucking, have with music, musical ther- LCSW with the assistance municating with each other by crooning, banging out of notes apy has provided an alterna- of Maly Massot MT-BC, has singing, talking, and playing helps them get through the day, tive, positive method of healing provided such therapy for in- instruments.” Regarding the makes them happy, and pro- for individuals of all ages and dividuals of all ages and back- general impact musical therapy vides them with an inexplica- backgrounds. grounds. Devine has treated a had on the children she worked ble sense of relaxation. But how can music therapy, multitude of issues, including with, Jones says, “[These ses- Across the board, research something seemingly so com- but not limited to depression sions] have all sorts of positive Appleton North senior plex, be confined to a single in music stimulation has dem- and anxiety, cancer, neurologi- impacts…[they] help individu- Jacie Jones volunteered definition? According to the cal disorders and NICU (neo- als become better versions of onstrated that the human brain with Expressive Thera- responds resoundingly well to American Music Therapy natal intensive care unit) infant themselves.” Association website, music complications. As Devine mentioned, “... pies. Photo by Maddy Schil- any activity relating to or in- ling. volving music; it is proven to therapy is the use of music to To optimize the effective- each case is diverse and unique ness of treatments, Devine con- to each person. Every session is quent basis. “We discuss [treat- ducts an evaluation process for different, as well, depending on ment termination] much; the each individual. She helps her circumstantial occurrences.” termination process is impor- clientele form attainable goals To treat depression, for in- tant to talk over several times. and typically asks their reasons stance, Ms. Devine utilizes At the final session, we have a for enjoying music. “Usually lyric composition and analysis big hoorah to celebrate such a my analysis extends for six to techniques to find the complex significant accomplishment.” seven pages...but the most im- relationship of emotions and Ultimately, healing through portant thing is getting to know words; for kids with certain musical therapy encourages the individual well.” Once the special abilities, she provides self-improvement but does evaluation has been completed, them with memory recall exer- so in an easily-connectable, sessions are scheduled one to cises in addition to information largely personalized manner. two times a week, depending for playing two-handed instru- It perpetuates that music, more on an individual’s availability ments in order to improve mo- than being a mere source of Music therapist Maly Massot (pictured above) and situation. Since people and tor skills. Once an individual entertainment, has the capacity to effect the human brain in in- works at Expressive Therapies in Appleton. Photo their lives vary from day to day, begins to improve, Ms. Devine credibly positive ways. Courtesy of Expressive Therapies, LLC. a very adaptive and knowl- schedules sessions on a less fre- ARE YOU AWARE? Appleton, Wisconsin February 2016 Vol. XXI Issue I Page 10 An evening of holiday mischief By Molly Biskupic Appleton North Students You may have rolled hijinks, holiday cheer, and and is headed by North’s your eyes at the tree dis- genuine generosity. North own Mrs. Dechant, held a play at Target, cringed at alum Cory Chisel hosted gift drive during the con- the carols playing on the alongside his longtime col- cert, wherein attendees were radio, and avoided eye laborator and partner, Adriel encouraged to bring a new contact with the Santa at Denae. Attendees enjoyed unwrapped gift to the per- the mall, but the holidays solo performances from formance. These gifts have came and went and, with both Chisel and Denae, as since been donated to fami- advertisements and pro- well as collaborative pieces. lies in need at the Fox Val- motions galore, they were According to the event’s ley Warming Shelter, COTS, impossible to dismiss. official Facebook page, Homeless Connections, and They may have past, but it “Rhodes Wilder Chisel [the the Harbor House. is impossilbe to forget the couple’s son] brought down Overall, the evening, season of cheer synony- the house with his perfor- which was standing room mous with baked goods, mance” as well. only, has been labeled a suc- wishlists, seasonal drinks, With the duo’s Ameri- A tabled filled with gifts donated by attendees have cess by the event’s coordi- pointless coffee-cup argu- cana take on classic holiday been sent to families in need across the Fox Valley. nators and can be expected ments, family reunions, songs, you can be certain Photo Courtesy of Mile of Music. to run once more in Decem- and of course music. this wasn’t your grandma’s performers have included singer and bass player. ber 2016. For more informa- For the fifth year in a Christmas pageant. Many community choirs and local To spread the cheer tion, check the Mile of Mu- row, An Evening of Holi- surprise guests joined the artists, and this year includ- throughout the community, sic Facebook page or their day Mischief provided the headliners throughout the ed the Appleton Boychoir Willems Student Marketing website at http://mileofmu- community with a night of concert. In years past, these and John Wheelock, a local team, which features many sic.com/. Student perspective: One Act performing By Rachel Sina full understanding of the “Go!” the stage manager show and their complete shouts queuing a flood of dismissal of a vital part of set pieces to surge onto the the story. Alice, as abstract stage in a choreographed as we have made it to be, frenzy. For the next forty can only be done right with minutes or less, the Apple- utmost precision and with ton North One Act cast maintaining the efficiency and crew becomes one in of our carefully crafted, purpose: to immerse our- well-oiled machine. This selves and our audience in system is what defines us Wonderland. As the timer as One Act performers, as ticks, we are an instrument participants in such a com- of concentration, rendering manding production. Lewis Carroll’s beloved Walking off stage as the story. final seconds of our pro- I play Alice Liddell in From left to right: North theatre director Ron Parker, actress Rachel Sina, and duction elapse, the pas- North’s One Act produc- stage managers Kamy Veith and Maddy Cuff in an early rehearsal of the Alice in sage of time seems surreal tion of Alice in Wonder- Wonderland One Act. Photo by Maddy Schilling because of our collective land this year. Although explain nonetheless. On one with honesty and heart. al perspective as an actor, enthrallment in the remark- Alice One Act isn’t the hand, there are exceptional On the other hand, One making sure you’re seen, able happenings onstage. first production I’ve been bonds formed between fel- Act is an experience not for heard, and understood are Afterwards, we await our a part of with the North low cast and crewmembers the weak-hearted. all crucial elements of the results in a silent storm of Theatre Program, it is cer- that are comparable to be- For one, there is the un- production. For everyone exhaustion and nervous tainly among the ones I’ve ing part of a family; we are derlying stress of each per- involved, it is paramount to energy. Stop or advance, grown the most fond of driven not only by the love formance, with set up and be in, ahead, and above the pass or fail, win or lose, it because of its whimsical of the theatre, but also by take down included, having moment all at once. Practice would be a lie to say that and wonderfully abstract a shared desire to uphold to be under forty minutes in makes perfect, and staying the judge’s’ jurisdiction nature. Not to be confused the reputation of our the- order to meet the guidelines at school until around ten won’t mean the world to with either one of Disney’s atre program’s ancestors. of the competition. Then, at night as well as mentally us, because it will. Alice in Wonderland’s, the One Act excellence is a there are the grueling eight reviewing scenes individu- Still, whether or not we North theatre production tradition at North, with our to twelve hour rehearsals ally is necessary to achieve put on a show that reflects is an original adaptation Theatre Program obtaining wherein numerous changes this perfection. our blood, sweat and tears of Lewis Carroll’s novel, the coveted Critic’s Choice are constantly made; with After all, receiving Crit- and that inspires other condensed into a single act award at the Wisconsin surpassing the trials of ic’s Choice is completely theatre programs to do and performed as a part of High School Theatre Fes- district and sectional com- dependent on how three es- the same is what will last. the Wisconsin High School tival for the past sixteen petitions, the intensity of teemed theatre profession- That, for me, is our entire Forensic Association’s One consecutive years, so each rehearsals as the show trav- als interpret the play. Pro- purpose. Act competition. member of the cast and els to state become more jecting a single sentence For more information re- Working in the Alice cast crew is eager to continue heightened than ever. or remembering a simple garding upcoming shows, is an indescribable experi- to be the best we can and Frankly, it gets pretty de- gesture can be the differ- visit appletonnorththeatre. ence, but I’ll try my best to to tell of Alice’s adventures manding. From my person- ence between the judges’ com. ARE YOU AWARE? Appleton, Wisconsin February 2016 Vol. XXI Issue I Page 11 Swim team: Hard work pays off By Maddie Clark Horn took 3rd in the 100 through sportsmanship, get- You might know about meter freestyle and 4th in the ting best times, or winning the girls’ swim team’s re- 100 meter backstroke. a dual meet, the girls always cent competitions. The girls What about the only fresh- have this single word in took 1st place at Confer- man on the state team, Lexi mind. They plan on continu- ence, beating the undefeated Hilt, who is a newcomer ing that motto into next year Neenah Rockets. At Sec- in the Appleton area? Hilt by achieving more “wins” tionals, the girls took 2nd talked about how she began throughout the season. place. Finally, the girls took to swim, “My sister, Lau- 7th place overall at State. ren, joined a year before The 400 freestyle relay, me, and it looked fun, so I swam by Abbey Greeneway, decided to join.” Hilt now Lexi Monty, Britt Horn, and swims with the Fox Valley Lauren Hilt, took 5th place Wave with other high school swimmers such as Abbey “I swim three times at state. Now you know their The North Girls’ swim team’s hard work and passion has wins, but are you aware who paid off. The Lightning took first place in Conference this Greeneway, Britt Horn, and in the morning a season. Photo by Alex Neumann these ladies are or the effort Brianna Arnold. She practic- week which is they put into preparing for Britt Horn? Horn started coach is Curt Beutler. Horn es two hours a day, Monday followed by competition? with basic swim lessons and talked about her swim sched- through Saturday. With three You might have heard her parents had a hard time ule, “I swim three times in more years in high school, afternoon practice her name on the announce- getting her out of the water. the morning a week which is Hilt plans on continuing her every day for two ments, seen it in the pa- They soon felt obligated to followed by afternoon prac- career in swimming. hours, including One of the mottos that per, or looked at the record sign her up for swim team. tice every day for two hours, Saturday.” board in the pool area. Who the girls had for this season Her swim team is the Fox including Saturday.” In her - Junior Britt Horn exactly is this junior named Valley Wave, and her head individual events at State, was “Win”. Whether it be Meet the athletes of the month Garner Kohrell, Swimming/Senior Anna Duehring, Hockey/Junior 1. When did you start 4.What are your expecta- 1. When did you start play- 4. What are your expecta- swimming? tions/hope to accomplish ing hockey ? tions/hope to accomplish I started swimming when this season? I started playing hockey for the season? I was 9 years old for the I hope to qualify for the when I was 4 years old. I really hope that by the Community Swim Team in Olympic Trials, and I want end of the season I can say Brillion, WI. to see Appleton North/East 2. What do you love most that I put in every ounce of win at either sectionals or about hockey? effort in every practice and 2. What do you love most conference. What I love the most about game, along with being the about swimming? hockey is the fast pace of the best leader on the team that I It gives you mental and 5. Finish this sentence: game and the passion that could be. physical skills to overcome At the end of the year Photo by Katharine Hackney always comes along with nearly any obstacle in life, the Appleton North/East the sport, no matter who is 5. Finish this sentence: and I love the friendships Swim team will be...? playing. At the end of the season I have with people from At the end of the year Appleton United Girls the Fox Valley Area and all Appleton North/East swim hockey will be…?? across the country. team season will have 3. What is your favorite …the strongest team improved as an overall and hockey memory? we have ever been! 3. What is your favorite hopefully be sending about I don’t know if I could point swim memory? four guys to state. out a specific memory, but It would probably have to be any bus ride with my team is when I placed 5th at Spee- always one to remember! do’s (A national/zone swim View the Complete inter- meet) view at Northnoct.com Photo courtesy of Anna Dueh- ring Go see...

A look ahead to Boys Basketball United Boys Hockey Wrestling Lightning future 2/5 vs Kaukauna 2/11 vs Homestead Admission is free to 2/6 Conference @Neen- games. 2/9 vs Appleton West 2/16 vs TBD ah 8 a.m. all Appleton North 2/11 vs Kimberly All games are home 2/18 Regionals 2/13 Regional Playoffs home games with an unless noted. 2/16 Team Sectionals activity pass, unless Appleton United it is a WIAA playoff Boys Swim/Dive United Girls Hockey Hockey plays home Performance Team game. 2/6 vs Conference Meet Regional Playoffs TBD games at the 2/6 UCA Nationals @ Florida 2/12 Sectionals Sectional Playoffs TBD Appleton Family Ice 2/19 State State TBD 2/21 Regionals @Waupaca Center. 2/28 State @ Madison ARE YOU AWARE? Appleton, Wisconsin February 2016 Vol. XXI Issue I Page 12

Senior Tyler Hill, wrestles against a Neenah grap- pler on Jan. 21. The Appleton North wrestling team defeated Neenah 37-30 on Senior night.

Junior Mitch Mologne drives to the basket against an Oshkosh West defender. A focus on winter sports f you’ve been to a North athletic event, Iyou’ve likely seen Alex Neumann there capturing the action with his camera. Alex, a senior at North, has been to numerous sporting events over the years and has taken thousands of photos. “I take about 1,000 pictures for each event,” he said. Neumann has accumulated many photos over the years. “Since I started last year, I just went over 100,000 pictures.” The winter sports The Performance Team performs a routine at a recent boys’ basketball game. The Per- will soon be heading into the end of their formance Team consists of over 25 members performing in their own competitions and at regular season and into the WIAA playoffs. athletic events during the fall and winter seasons. Photos by Alex Neumann Watch for the Lightning, and Alex, as they make a run in the playoffs. Check on www .northnoct.com for sports scores, times, and locations to cheer on the Lightning.

Senior forward Trenton Bliss (23) and freshman forward Erik Bargholtz (24) battle for the puck against Wisconsin Rapids. Bliss will play Division One Hockey at the University of Wiscon- The Pep Band plays music for most varsity home basketball sin-Madison next season. The Appleton United Boys’ Hockey games. The Band consists of over 180 members split into two team consists of players from Appleton East, Appleton North, different pep bands. The Pep Band is particularly seen at bas- and Appleton West. ketball games during the winter months.