Brock Fleishman

Tupper Lake in recent years has been dominating the section in spring sports. With baseball claiming the section last year, softball making it to the section title game, and track having state athletes on the team. Safe to say Tupper has seen success last year in sports. But what’s important is to make sure Tupper sees the same amount of success in the spring this year. So I was able to catch up with the coaches to see how they are going to make the teams the best version of themselves.

Coach Brown has had so much success with his baseball team last year, as mentioned above. Winning Section 10 and bringing home a banner to put up on the gym wall. So when I asked how are you going to keep that winning mentality alive, he confidently replied with, “The championship DNA is already there, these guys have already won before. Now it’s just about utilizing it, making everything come to fruition, and minimizing mistakes.” In order to have a successful season though, coach needs to have some expectations out of his players. So I asked Coach Brown on what he expects out of his boys, he responded with “Maximizing our potential. Don’t take any chances for granted. We need to hit the field to stay sharp and utilize every opportunity we have to get better.” Finally, I asked him probably the most important question of all, and that’s why I asked all coaches, what is going to separate Tupper Lake Baseball from all other schools? Coach Brown responded quickly with, “We are working harder than everybody. We are putting in those 2 hour practices with conditioning and strength training. Plus, we are letting every kid be their own athlete. Whatever they need to work on to get better, so they can get better and help the team.” Coach Brown clearly still has that winning mentality, and we will be excited to watch if the wins will come with this mentality. 

Another team that’s going to have a winning mentality is the girl’s softball team. Coach Kenniston has a promising team, with the team making it to the sectional championship last year for the first time in school history. But of course they will be trying make another trip back to the sectional championship, and come out victorious. So I asked Coach Kenniston hiq they plan. In getting back to the championship game and coming out with a win. She answered with, “We’ve had a good start this year in the gym. We have some talented underclassmen that can make a positive impact this year to compliment our Seniors. I think if we maintain our intensity in practice throughout the season we will have a really good shot at returning to the Championship game again this year.” As a Tupper Laker myself, I hope this is true so we as a community can watch history repeat itself. I asked Coach Kenniston if she had to describe her team with one word, what would it be? She answered greatly with “Determined. With our goal of hanging a banner, we are determined to work harder than any other team and stay focused on our end goal.” With the girls being determined we can expect big things out of this team this season. Then finally, piggy backing of the last question, I asked what would separate this Tupper team from all other schools? She came back with, “With our early start in the gym and currently in the civic center, we will work harder than any other team in section X. We have three preseason goals that drive our focus in practice everyday. They are maintaining a positive attitude, teamwork, and hanging a championship banner at the end of the season.”  Sounds like Tupper Lake Softball has huge expectations and potential. I speak for everyone when I say we are excited to watch this team hit the diamond and compete for a banner.

However, not far from the diamond is another team working hard on the track. Coach Klossner’s track team will definitely be more competitive this year than recents, with the size of the team going up immensely. So I asked her what that will change for her planning these meets? “I am hoping to fill all of the events, with our team size we should be able to have some movement and flexibility but still be able to have the ability to score the most points in each event” The track team is looking to be able to punish all forms of races, whether it’s the sprints, mid distance, or long distance, they definitely have the ammunition to do that. But back in indoor track the boys team got 4th place in sectionals just by the skin of their teeth, with 1st place beating them by only 8 points. In track terms, the difference of 8 points can be decided in one race. So I asked Coach Klossner how that will motivate her going forward, she answered with “As a coach I’m eager to get redemption and revenge, and the athletes feel the same. I think we have a great chance at sectionals if we keep working hard and staying focused on the goal ahead, we have a great chance at the banner.” She seemed confident in the boys ability to make a great run here, now it’s just up to the boys to see how bad they want it. But finally, like the other coaches, I asked her what makes Tupper Lake Track and Field different from other schools, she said, “What makes us, us, is we have a core group that have been in Indoor and Outdoor, that have had small victories and big accomplishments over time. And this core group has been able to help add some new kids that will help us score points.” Safe to say, Coach Klossner has the bar set high for the boys and girls track team, only time will tell if they end up meeting these goals.

Tupper Lake has 4 spring sports that will be looking to put their name in history books. (With golf getting their own article coming soon) This is one of the best chances in a while that Tupper Lake could rule the section in all 4 of their sports. As a Tupper student, I can’t wait to see what this spring has in store.

Brock Fleishman

The indoor track team this year for Tupper Lake was overall successful, especially when considering we are the smallest team in section 10. Plus with a young core of athletes, the young athletes show promise for Jacks Track for years to come. So when they got 4th place in Sectionals - and keep in mind only by a few points - against schools like Canton and Potsdam, which were represented by mainly juniors and sophomores, it gives a strong sense of hope going forward. 

But why look so far ahead when we have two superstars on the indoor track team right now? Of course, I’m talking about Cohen Gerstenberger and Luke Robillard. Cohen was the best overall jumper this year, consistently getting top three, if not first, every week in Long Jump and Triple Jump. While Luke was always getting first place in shot put and it was barely ever a competition. So it only makes sense that both runners receive Co-MVP for field events because how do you decide which one is the true MVP for field events when both are so dominant? Not only have they won these awards, they also get to look forward to traveling to Staten Island this Friday to compete at states and to represent Section 10! 

I was able to ask these guys some questions about the process of getting these awards, and getting ready for states: 

Both of you won Co-MVP. What does that mean to you to share that award with a kid from your school?

LUKE: I think it’s a honor to share and pretty cool that I get to share it with somebody from my school. It really shows that we like to compete as Tupper athletes, and because of that we get to represent our as the MVP’s

COHEN: It’s awesome to share an award with someone from our school, especially with an athlete like Luke.

This season, did field MVP ever cross your mind?

LUKE: Getting field MVP never really crossed my mind nor was it a goal for me. I focused more on winning shot put every week and I was honored to receive Co-MVP.

COHEN: Yes it definitely did, it was my goal from the beginning of the season to win field MVP and get my name up on the MVP wall. 

Going back to when you started your field event, did you ever think you would be the field MVP or even going to states? Or was this just a random skill that overtime you happened to be good at?

LUKE: Looking back on it, it was never really a goal from the early days of throwing shot put. Once I knew I was competing at a high level and placing highly, my coaches pushed me and I believed that I could obtain both of those.

COHEN: I started Long Jump in 8th grade and I faulted (going over the mark to jump) so many times, so I never thought I would go to states or win MVP. For Triple Jump, I was just messing around with it in practice, but then I tried it in meets and I thought I had a decent chance to do well.

What has the process been like getting ready for states? 

LUKE: The process has been just practicing Shot Put everyday, hitting the weights hard, working on fast twitch explosiveness, as well as working on my strength. Also staying active in the cardio room to get my body warm and ready for each session.

COHEN: The process for getting ready to go to states has been a  lot of fun and mainly focusing on my form for jumping.

And finally, are you ready to compete at states?

LUKE: I am definitely feeling ready. With the New York City invitational meet and last year at states, competing in big venues and against good competition has prepared me and I am excited to go represent section 10, but more importantly, Tupper Lake!

COHEN: I’m as ready as i’ll ever be for this weekend. I’m hoping to get some personal bests in my events.

Luke and Cohen have had phenomenal seasons and they hope to cap it off with PR’s down at Staten Island. And Luke hopes to end his indoor track career on a high note, while Cohen is going to keep improving for his senior year.

Sean Wood

Tupper Lake Middle High School Hosts Fundraisers for Senior and Sophomore Classes

Tupper Lake Middle High School is kicking off the month of February with two exciting fundraisers to support the Senior and Sophomore classes. As Valentine’s Day approaches, both classes are offering unique and festive ways for the community to contribute to their upcoming activities. These fundraising efforts are crucial for funding memorable trips and events for the students, with all proceeds benefiting the Senior Trip and other class-related activities.

Senior Class Fundraiser: Rubber Duck Sales for Valentine’s Day

The Senior Class is spreading love this Valentine’s season by selling adorable rubber ducks! This fun fundraiser gives students the opportunity to purchase a rubber duck, which will be sent to a recipient with a special message. Whether you're sending it as a fun Valentine's Day surprise or a quirky way to show appreciation, these rubber ducks are sure to bring a smile to anyone’s face.

Proceeds from the sale of these rubber ducks will go toward supporting the Senior Class Trip. This annual event is a highlight of the school year, offering seniors the chance to create lasting memories together before graduation. The Senior Class encourages everyone to get involved and help make this year’s trip a truly unforgettable experience.

Sophomore Class Fundraiser: Rada Cutlery Sales

In addition to the Senior Class's duck fundraiser, the Sophomore Class is holding its own fundraiser by offering premium Rada Cutlery products. Rada knives, peelers, and other kitchen tools are known for their high quality and excellent craftsmanship, making them perfect for those who love cooking or simply need to upgrade their kitchen tools.

Purchasing Rada Cutlery not only provides you with useful and long-lasting products but also helps fund the Sophomore Class’s upcoming activities and trips. It’s a win-win for everyone, and the class appreciates the community's support as they raise money for their future endeavors.

Support Both Fundraisers Before February 14th

Both fundraisers will run until February 14th, 2025, so be sure to make your purchases before the deadline. Whether you choose to support the Senior Class by buying a rubber duck or contribute to the Sophomore Class by purchasing Rada Cutlery, your participation will help fund important activities for these students.

Tupper Lake Middle High School encourages everyone to get involved and show support for both classes. Every donation and purchase brings the students one step closer to their goals, and the community's involvement makes a huge difference in ensuring these events are successful.

Don't miss out on the chance to make a positive impact this Valentine’s season!

Brock Fleishman

Elijah Gonzalez is a very talented artist here in Tupper Lake, and he will be showing off his work in the Goff Nelson Library. I was able to see his pieces of impressive art, and luckily I could grab an interview about his art being displayed. 

When looking at Elijah’s artwork, you can tell there was a ton of time and love put into his work. So my first question to him was “What made you fall in love with art?”

After a second to really think, he replied with “I fell in love with art because I feel like it's how, like, to express my thoughts and feelings about myself.”  

You will notice that he has a lot of work regarding fishing and nature, so I was curious on how that related to him expressing himself. Elijah answered with, “I have always loved nature, and I want to show my love for nature through my art.” 

One piece that really caught my eye was the painting of the pike. The colors popped, the texture was amazing, and you really felt like the fish was alive in the painting. I was curious though on why a pike, and specifically the action of fishing, so I asked about what inspired him to make it. “I love to fish, and my favorite type of fish to catch is a pike. I find them to be very strong and beautiful fish and I wanted to represent that in my painting. Plus I love to fish and I wanted to share that joy in this painting.”

Elijah was also talented enough to make cross media. He made a painting with lyrics from Pearl Jam. “When I heard those lyrics, I pictured this exact painting in my mind, and it just felt right to paint.”

Elijah’s art show is being held at the Goff Nelson Library here in Tupper Lake, and it is definitely worth a visit. Walking into this interview, I knew that Elijah was a painter, but walking out I now know he is a passionate artist that has a huge love for nature. 

His art does a great job of reflecting his love for nature and really how he just enjoys the simple things in life. So please stop on down to the library before the end of December to pay Elijah’s work a much needed visit.

 Blake Wagner

It’s that time of the year again! It’s time for homecoming and with homecoming comes dress themes throughout the week. We interviewed Mr. LaMere about various subjects relating to Spirit Week and Homecoming. We first asked Mr. LaMere how the themes were picked. He said, “I had some help with these themes. Some teachers have given some advice and guidance. Also, I met with the student council to see what they thought as well. We combined all of those ideas to get the themes we chose.” This year’s chosen themes are Twin Day on Tuesday, Country vs Cali day on Wednesday (Dress like a rural person, or someone who likes to surf), class color day on Thursday (Pre-K/6th: Blue, K/7th: Green, 1st/8th Yellow, 2nd/9th Orange, 3rd/10th White, 4th/11 Red, and 5/12th Black), and lastly Friday is Red and Black Lumberjack day. 

We also asked Mr. LaMere about how school participation affects the vibe leading to the game. He said, “In the past, I have seen student participation in Spirit Week from a teacher's perspective. Students are excited to dress up and participate in the themes. It definitely adds a layer of excitement and school pride. I think it allows a build up as the Pep Rally and the homecoming games and dance approaches.” 

Lastly we looked ahead at what the Pep Rally has in store for our students. He said “I am meeting with the student council again tomorrow to discuss the pep rally agenda. I have 95% of it outlined, but I want to see what they want to do for a "game" or "contest". I have some ideas in mind, but it's for the kids, so I want to make sure it makes sense to them as well.” Keep your eyes peeled for more information.

Let’s have a safe and fun Homecoming!

Images by Ky

Brock Fleishman

The Tupper Lake Lumberjacks had an amazing 5-2 season with 3-0 sweep against Ticonderoga. The team only played 6 games because one was forfeited, however that didn’t stop them from having an amazing season. 

However one bright spot of the team was Luke Robillard with over 1,000 rushing yards this season. Only 6 other running backs have done that in team history, but Robillard was the first junior to ever do it. Robillard’s sensational season of course couldn’t have been done without a phenomenal offensive line. With the starting line up looking like senior Tyler Wood, juniors Cooper Cuttaia, CJ Levey, and Jesse Datola playing the guard position, and junior Buaer Callaghan playing center. With this team being super young, there is a bright future to look forward to.

I sat down with Robillard and we had an important discussion about the past, the present, and more importantly the future. When I asked Robillard about other sports he played, it came as no surprise to me when he replied with indoor track and baseball. On the field he shows the speed of an indoor track runner and the arm strength to throw a missile in baseball. However, I wondered what made him want to play football in the fall.

When I asked him about it, Luke said “My dad played a huge impact on me wanting to play football. However, my great uncle Kevin had an amazing career at St. Lawrence University and I want to try and recreate what he did and play at the collegiate level myself.” 

When he said that he has a family history of successful football players, it did not shock me. But it was why he stuck with the sport that struck me. Robillard claimed that he loved “going into battle with his brothers.” When I asked him to clarify he said “Playing football with your best friends and doing everything you can to try and come out with a win as a team. Plus having the emotions behind every great win with your brothers is by far the best part.”

I asked Robillard if he had a favorite player that he wants to emulate or look up to. He said, “Tom Brady’s work ethic and determination to get to where he got.” Robillard has proven to be a hard worker on and off the field, with doing weightlifting in the winter and “Speed Camp,'' a training camp for football players, during the summer. Then he was hitting the field and fighting tooth and nail for every inch he gains. It was clear that he is always putting the work and effort into the sport.

“I didn’t always want to be a running back,” said Robillard, “I was more defensive minded and wanted to play linebacker. But now that I play both running back and linebacker, I've grown to love the running back position more and more.” 

I questioned Robillard about his favorite over the season, he answered with zero hesitation saying, “Definitely the last game against Ticenderago with our comeback win from 18-12 and then coming on top 20-18. That game was special. Having my teammates and me get the motivation to shut them out in the second half and come away with a score as well was amazing for the record but also the locker room.” Not only was it a great comeback win, the boys in black were also able to beat Ticonderoga 3 times in one year.

Robillard is obviously an amazing player, however you can always get better as a player. So I asked him what he wants as a goal moving forward, he answered with “The team goal comes first, go undefeated. But personally I would like to get more tackles and rushing yards.” Robillard is very team focused and it shows.

Wrapping up the interview, I asked what he would want to do after high school. Robilliard’s answer had to do with studying criminal justice and playing college football. As he said, he would like to venture into the law enforcement field. However, for right now, Robillard will stay on the grind to help bring this young team to the promised land.

Jayden Quesnel

Earlier this year, the Adirondack Center for Writing hosted their 19th annual High School Writing Retreat. This trip was a two-day retreat at Paul Smiths and the turnout this year was amazing. Day one there were over 200 students from all around the North Country. There were supposed to be three poets, however, because of the large number of students they introduced a fourth. 

During this retreat, many people had the opportunity to not only learn in an engaging and socially diverse environment, but they also had a safe space to share their own work and get feedback. The open-mic was a great way to do so. Students in the audience encouraged the speaker, clapping (snapping actually) even when there was a mistake. The poets and fellow students made this an incredible experience for everyone who attended even if they had no previous writing experience. 

To future students wanting to attend, I highly recommend it. The workshop is incredible and the people are even better. This was a great experience for everyone involved and I’m excited to hear about all the future trips in the upcoming years.

Jayden Quesnel

Last Friday, September 22nd, students from Mrs. Mather’s creative writing class, as well as other interested students, had the amazing opportunity to attend a discussion from the award-winning author, Neal Shusterman. Once students were welcomed and seated Shusterman discussed his writing journey. He explained to the audience how impactful others were in getting him to tell his stories and how some of those stories were rooted in his own personal truth. One major part of the discussion was the passing of Shusterman’s mother. Around that same time, he was writing Scythe, a dystopian novel in which people’s lives are taken ‘compassionately’ by a group of people called Scythe's. Shusterman described how much this real life event impacted him and how it made him a better writer. He answered students' questions and gave insightful and helpful answers to both reader’s and writers alike. This field trip was extremely beneficial to students because of the broad discussion about the value and rewards of writing and telling stories. It helped students to learn the value of writing as well as reading. Then when he finished his speech, he generously signed my copy of Unwind and reminded me to “stay whole.” 

After a trying season and lots of hard work, sadly modified soccer is over. The girls gave every game their best shot both physically and mentally. Winning their first game of the season against Parishville, they felt very proud of their teammate, Sadie Tower, for scoring her first goal of the season in the second half of overtime. Not many other goals were scored this season, but Sadie’s was executed perfectly and the offense was grateful for her work. Many of the girls feel satisfied with their time spent playing and even more of them are excited for next year's adventures. So if you want, stop by and give soccer a shot next year. There’s always room for a little fun and what’s more fun than making memories with your team?