Knight Life
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IN THIS ISSUE Confiscated page 2A
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Turmoil in Egypt Jr. A.B. Allam reflects on his Egyptian lineage in the wake of revolution Chase Lauring
Uptown film festival page 4B
Around the world with Redabaugh page 5A
Athlete of the Month
Staff Writer “It’s a great time to be an Egyptian,” said Jr. Abelrahman (A.B.) Allam. who was born in Egypt and moved to the United States as a young boy, was one of many to celebrate the victory of democracy against corrupt dictator, Hosni Mubarak, in Egypt on February 11, 2011. Egypt had been a scene of chaos since late January, as protestors gathered together in the capitol city of Cairo. Masses of Egyptians moved through the streets, facing down armored cars and riot police. For 18 days, protestors gained momentum, appealing to
Egypt’s population through such means as social media and door-to-door networking. Inevitably, Mubarak stepped down, causing a stir of excitement among democracy supporters everywhere, including Allam. “Mubarak scared people, he scared America into believing that the protest was based on hate,” Allam clarifies. “Egyptians are good people. They have certain beliefs but they are not out to kill people.” Egyptians clearly wanted an end to the corruption they had endured for 39 years under Mubarak, where many were stripped of their rights. Though Egypt has one of the largest populations in the Middle East and the
Course schedule to see changes
page 5B KnightLife was able to sit down with Mrs. Griesbeck, an English teacher, to gain Students will experiinformation on this new ence new changes and course. She noted, “This exciting opportunities class will be a consolidation beginning fall, 2011. of numerous classes, alAfter years of dedication though nothing will be perand preparation, Lahser manently cut, it will just be has achieved IB World tweaked or retooled for the School status. This will better.” Griesbeck states, lead to the creation of “We are always changIB classes such as, IB ing and updating our curEnglish, which can be riculum to make the courses taken by 11th and 12th more comprehensible and graders, AP (Advanced innovative.” Placement)/IB Biology, The English department SL (Standard Level) is not the only area to see Chemistry, IB History of changes. The Science the Americas and IB 21st Department is hard at work Century Topics. Also, developing new courses. new classes that are non IB/HL (Higher Level) IB related will be offered. Biology will be taught by These include Digital Mrs. Vasile along with Mrs. Narratives in FilmmakBitterman-Wenson. This ing and Writing Through class will offer different Literature III. These lessons, labs and activiclasses will give students ties. Another new class, the opportunity to further SL (Standard Level) Chemstudy the topic area and istry will be team taught achieve a higher level of with Mrs.Lupone and Mrs. education. Honkala. “This is an excitOne of the new courses ing change to our departthat will be offered is ment.” Bitterman-Wenson IB English. IB English noted. is currently being deThe Math department veloped by our English will see some changes as Department. Lahser Continued on page 10... Mike Lucci Web Editor
Hairspray coverage page 2B
X the text page 6B
SEE MORE ONLINE AT: www.lahser. bloomfield.org/ newspaper
10th largest army in the world, its people enjoyed few privileges. Egypt receives billions of aid dollars from the United States, but Allam is quick to point out that most of it went directly to the government officials. “Imagine living on 20% of your household’s income,” Allam states. “80 percent of the country’s income is taken by the government, and people are living on as little as $2 a day” The emergency laws let the government arrest anyone who disagreed with the government. Allam, who travels to visit family in Egypt each year, recalls one man who was arrested for running in an
election against Mubarak. “When I was there I wondered why people weren’t standing up for themselves,” he said. Two questions that seem to concern many relate to the upcoming Egyptian elections and the continued cold peace with neighboring Israel. Allam believes that both concerns are, to some extent, unwarranted. Due, in large part, to America’s steadfast support of Israel, Allam says failure to maintain peace would be viewed as too risky by most Egyptian political groups. “The consequences would be too dire,” Allam explains. “I would be
surprised if anyone in power would break the treaty.” Though it is too early to know for sure, Egyptians have begun to create a process for fair and democratic elections to take place. It is an uncertainty how the people will vote, but for the first time, many will have that opportunity. The scene in Egypt today is one of jubilation. Though many decisions need to be made to pave the way for a fair election process, Allam believes Egyptians will rise to the occasion. “Egypt is a peaceful country with peaceful people,” he said. “The elections will be peaceful.
Lahser earns MYP certification The Middle Years Program paves the way for Lahser!s academic future Courtney Eathorne Staff Writer As most members of the Lahser community know, Lahser has recently attained the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Program giving Lahser, in partnership with East Hills Middle School, IB World School status. The MYP, aimed at students ages 11-16, lays the groundwork for the international mindset of the Diploma Program, for students in their final years of high school, by implementing a curriculum that helps students make connections between traditional subjects and real world problem-solving. At the end of the program, candidates complete a Personal Project of their own
creation that is assessed by teachers based on IB criteria. When students complete the program, they have the MYP certificate to add to their transcript. This past fall, both Lahser and East Hills were interviewed for eligibility for the program
and were successful. Lahser High School is one of only few schools nationwide to offer both the MYP (for grades 9 and 10) and DP (for
grades 11 and 12) curriculums. “To undertake the authorization process of both programs simultaneously was a tremendous challenge but it truly demonstrates the unwavering commitment of our teaching staff,” said Principal Charlie Hollerith. Beginning with the class of 2015, students will be able to complete the program and graduate with the certificate. So what does this mean for current IB candidates or even Lahser knights who aren’t involved with the program at all? Pride. Being an IB World School is an honor that we can all be proud of, and creates an even brighter future for Lahser knights to come.
Editor-In-Chief:
Views
Matt Cunningham
Section Editors:
Samantha Klein Alex Koroleff Brooke Burchill Stephanie Granowicz
March 15, 2011
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Page A5 Web Editors:
CONFISCATED
Matt Webster Mike Lucci Chace Lauring
Why do students feel violated in terms of privacy when their cell phones are taken away from them? Even more importantly, can students and teachers reach an agreement regarding Lahser’s cell phone policy? Julia Long
Staff Writer Pure sentiment poured into a text message on an iPhone’s pixilated screen, every waking moment of student life arranged in vivid detail in a Blackberry’s calendar, rows upon rows of juicy pictures stored on the oh-soprecious memory card of a Nokia. Whatever your
most clandestine piece of information might be, everyone has something ultra-private stored away on his or her personal cell phone. “I have my whole life on my phone, and so do a lot of teenagers,” Sr. Ian Kowalewsky confirmed. This contributes to the inevitable panic students feel when a teacher’s hand reaches out for his or her off-
limits cellular device. “When teachers take my phone, I feel like they’re invading my privacy,” Fr. Orion Tuazon sighed, “I keep personal information on that thing! I think most people do.” Jr. Chania Townsend agreed, “Your phone contains things that were meant for the eyes of you and your friends only.” However, students seem to be armed with the natural
assumption that teachers are looking through their phones. The rumor that teachers read texts and view pictures that students keep on their cell phones is ultimately false. “Students’ phones are their personal business. I don’t want to know what’s on their phones! If one of my students uses their
dictate specific instructions to their students for every assignment. It is up to the student to use the time given to them during class hours and to complete meaningful work. “I have learned more being at Model than any other class, school, or teacher could have taught me,” says Andover senior Austin Schuld, “It helps when the subjects that you’re learning about are in your personal interest and when you’re motivated to do meaningful,
creative work that benefits you and the people around you.” Model provides different classes, a stronger student-teacher relationship and an overall diverse learning environment that cherishes self-expression and individuality. The grading system at Model High School is not based solely on students’ completed work, but on the quality, effort and originality put forth. A crucial part of the grade is based on how one embraces the Model Core Competencies and Values. These Core
Competencies and Values are personality traits that should be honed by every student and employee who are a part of this unique establishment. The Core Competencies are taught at Model by the facilitators, the Model veterans, and by trial and error within yourself. The Core Competencies were created to be used not only within the Model school walls, but to be brought forth into society and utilize for the everyday life. They include
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Model High School Exposed Carlie Kraus Staff Writer
Many students who do not attend Model High School often misunderstand the teaching styles and learning techniques of this anomalous school. “Model can be whatever you make of it,” says Lahser junior Nathan Cole, “If you are a motivated and a self-sufficient worker then you will succeed and grow at Model.” The facilitators at Model build trust with their students so they do not need to watch over or
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Photography:
Carlie Kraus Julia Long Lindsey Ferguson
Staff Writers:
Michael Gawlik Alaina Jones Shannon McAvoy Connor Wood Jazmynn Croskey Erin Antonishen Courtney Eathorne Ellyce Ferguson Reilly Manz Michael Henderson
Contributing Writers: Michael Padilla Bianca Nguyen Katie Robinson Sarah Wirthlin Brain Freeburg
Advisor:
Mrs. Terri Thav
Technology Advisor: Mrs. Deb Westman
Tiger Mom: Parenting to the Extreme
In a world full of stress, pressure, and competition, when does strict parenting cross the line? Does an upbringing with explicit and elevated expectations have a positive or negative effect on a child? Michael Gawlik Staff Writer
Anything less than perfect wasn’t good enough for Connecticut high school students Sophia and Louisa Chua. Or that is, anything less than perfect wasn’t good enough for their mother, Amy, a professor at Yale Law School and the author of the wildly controversial novel, Battle Hymn of the Tiger Mother. The memoir, while slightly embellished, illustrates the self proclaimed Tiger Mom’s strict raising of her two daughters and has sparked a national debate; at what point does parenting become too extreme? Some think that Chua is overly intense; others believe that she is cruel, and some even feel that she is a genius. As depicted in the book, her parenting methods are extreme. She was a harsh taskmaster, demanding excellence and nothing less from her daughters. She herself had been raised in an intense Chinese household, where hardly anything was good enough and even a word of English would earn her a slap from a pair of
How Strictly 50 Lahser Students Were Raised 20 18 16 14 12 10 8 6 4 2 0 Very Lenient
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chopsticks. “I see my upbringing as a great success story,” Chua explained to Time Magazine, claiming that strict parenting opens doors to children in the future. And strict Chua most certainly was; her daughters were expected to be at the top of every class (with the exception of gym and drama), and become piano and violin prodigies as well. Additionally, the girls and were not allowed to choose their own extra-
curricular activities, or have any play dates or sleepovers with friends. “There is a difference between being a strict parent and being a drill sergeant,” says Sr. Brian Freeburg. While this method seems intense, even cruel, there is no denying that it is effective. Sophia, 18, played piano at Carnegie Hall when only 10 years old. Louisa, 15, has become a star tennis player. But many Americans have posed the question; is success worth this intensity and the stress and
Strict
pressure that comes with it? “I think the method is effective,” says Soph. Zahir Allarakhia, “but abusing it could lead the kids to future problems.” Studies by Psychology Today have proven the effectiveness of the method, saying that children raised in this way are “more optimistic and… are capable of over overcoming adversity.” Also, in addition to producing more successful students in America, the method has been proven to
Very Strictly
work overseas as well. In China, where this level of involvement is used by both parents and the government, students scored far higher than those from any other nation in standardized tests. While some question the effectiveness of these exams in portraying true academic success, many argue that China will overtake the United States as the world’s largest economy before most Lahser students graduate.
“It’s scary to think about, but it shows America needs to get in the game,” says Soph. Johanna Squires. If the Tiger Mom’s method becomes more popular in the United States, we may be able to stay ahead of China. American parents are too gentle with their children says Chua, accusing most parents of “slathering praise on their kids for the lowest of tasks — drawing a squiggle or waving a stick.” More motivated children are certainly the result of the Tiger Mom and her ways, but many ask whether or not they have been broken down by their upbringing. After all, Chua admits that she has called Sophia ‘garbage’ and threatened to burn Louisa’s favorite stuffed animal if she didn’t learn a piano piece in a single night. However, both daughters plan on raising their children in the same style as their mother. “If I died tomorrow, I would die feeling I’ve lived my whole life at 110 percent,” says Sophia. “And for that, Tiger Mom, thank you.”
Views March 17, 2011
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The True Value of the Model Experience Continued from page 2
such values and practices such as: self awareness, inquiry and investigation, and communication. Most people who have not experienced the unique educational atmosphere of Model view the establishment as less difficult than Lahser for one main reason: there are no tests given. “We’ve all aced tests,” says Kathleen Conklin, a graduate from the University of Michigan and an English teacher at Model, “and forgotten the material the following week. That’s not learning. Sometimes the best measure of someone’s learning is not a test, but a speech, an iMovie, or a paper.” Tests typically measure the amount of trivial information a student can memorize and simply regurgitate, while failing to reflect how much of that material is actually retained. Usually, once a test is completed, the information one did not actually acquire, but just momentarily memorized, escapes your mind because it is no longer deemed important. This is why the facilitators at Model have found an alternate method of testing one’s knowledge. “The projects here are more holistic based so the students must be intellectually, emotionally, creatively and sometimes physically involved in their learning,” proclaims Andrea
McCoy, another one of Model’s fine instructors. The projects, papers, debates and class conversations are the mediums that assist students to withhold the information given. Students retain what they learn when the ability to connect it with reality becomes present, when what they learn is remembered by personal significance and experience, not by filling in a bubble and guessing the letter ‘C’ whenever you do not know the answer. It is all about making connections, within the material, within yourself, and within your entire educational experience. At Model, students not only pursue subjects of interest, they are taught the skills needed for completing assignments, getting through college and becoming more self-reliant for the future. “At Model it is up to YOU to learn, to retain information, to complete assignments given, to prove that you have the ability to attend a school where self-sufficiency is the key of learning and succeeding,” states Cora Johnson a Lahser senior. “If you treat Model as a blow off and turn in a lot of assignments late or do not show effort in your work, your overall grade will reflect your overall effort.” Model High School is the first step towards a successful, educational independence.
Confiscated, Continued from page 2 Mr. Jasin taking care of business and keeping order as usual. phone in class, I just take it. I don’t look through it,” said Mrs. Sheldon. Mrs. Abbott added, “If a student is texting, they’re not focused on the present; they’re not focused on what is taking place in the classroom. Sometimes they need directions repeated…and I want my class to go smoothly, things to get done, objectives to get accomplished. I do confiscate phones during class. But, no, I don’t go through text messages.” When faced with the comforting reality that teachers do not tend to read their text messages or personal information,
Cell phone confiscation cont. below!
students generally have a greater compassion towards the practice of confiscating cell phones during class time. “Teachers don’t have the right to go through phones, but they do actually have a right to take phones from kids who are texting during class,” said Townsend. “As long as they don’t look through my phone, I understand why they do it,” Tuazon affirmed. Teachers’ reasons for sequestering cell phones are, indeed, understandable. Mostly, they desire a supreme educational experience for their students and feel that cell phones are detrimental to
THE DEBATE ON GUN CONTROL
Public shootings, including the most recent in Tucson, have shocked the nation for decades. With seemingly no end in sight, Americans are forced to examine the most fundamental cause of such shootings: the gun control laws themselves. this long? Proponents of the right to bear arms think so, and always fail to look at the very first part of the clause, “a well regulated Militia.” Instead, they focus is on the latter half, “the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed.” This tendency to look only at the favorable wording has been one of the most frustrating aspects of the debate over gun control reform. Like all technologies, guns are becoming more advanced, and thus more
ing a look at Michigan specifically, it is not hard at all to obtain a gun. At 18, one can buy a long gun (guns of 30 inches or more, i.e. rifles), from both a federal and private dealer, with no purchase license required. In terms of pistols, an 18 year old can buy a handgun from a private dealer, but needs to be 21 to buy from a federal dealer. Handguns do require a purchase license. Most states, including Michigan, do necessitate a basic background check, however according to http://www.
store, a movie theater, etc. with the main justification being a simple permit, a piece of paper. We have The Second Amendbeen accustomed to somement to the Constitution of thing that should really the United States reads as be viewed as completely follows, “A well regulated ridiculous and dangerous. Militia, being necessary to When it comes down the security of a free State, to it then, what is really the right of the people to stopping a more strict regkeep and bear Arms, shall ulation of firearms? Just not be infringed.” Again, like every other issue in this one simple clause is the world, it comes down at the core of the controto money. The weapons versial debate over gun industry is huge, both in control, which has resurthe private sector and for faced due to the shootings our military. Guns, bulin Tucson, Arizona. As lets, and all other related always, it took an extreme equipment bring in a lot measure to get people and of revenue. In politicians alike addition, recreto talk about this ations like the important yet often shooting sports HIGHES T LOW EST ignored topic. and hunting, with # of Gun Ca lifornia (79) Uta h (0) To some, the all its related Control Laws right to bear arms permits, generis as “American” ate much profit % o f Households W yoming (62.8) Hawa ii (9.7) as the freedom of as well. The Ow ning a Firearm speech, the Fourth National Rifle Asof July, and footsociation (NRA) Gun-Deat h Rat e Louisiana (19.9) Hawa ii (2.8) ball Sunday. To plays a huge role Per 100,000 peop le others, the right to too. Many view bear arms is merethis group as the ly an outdated and most powerful inapplicable clause deadly. The gun used in justfacts.com/gunconlobbying group in Amerof the Constitution drafted the Tucson shooting had trol.asp, of the 96 milica. They have millions to address a need of that 31 bullets in one single lion background checks of ardent members and specific time period. magazine clip. Hownationally from 1998 hundreds of millions in Taken out of the context, ever, our gun control laws to 2008, only 681,000 funding. Often times, especially the historical do not seem to mirror were denied - a mere one they can make a lot of context in which the Bill the progress made in percent. noise in Washington when of Rights was written, this the weapons industries. In terms of gun conit comes down to anything amendment does not make There are an estimated cealment, Michigan is of gun-related. sense anymore. At the 270 to 300 million guns the vast majority of states I am not opposed to the time, the Second Amendin the United States and a that allows people to right to bear arms, howment made sense and was disputed amount of unac- carry a concealed weapon ever I do feel it necessary a topic of great concern to counted firearms. The (at age 21). Overall, 39 to impose tighter regulathe American people, but US has the highest gun states are “shall-issue” tions on the entire realm was it truly meant to last per 100 person ratio, with states, meaning gun of firearms. Whether that about 90 guns per 100 concealment is allowed be a significant tax on a learning environment. people. These numbers as long as one obtains the guns or the bullets themFor instance, Mrs. Abbott should be eye opening. proper permit. 9 states selves, more extensive referenced the fact that Both of those figures out- are “may-issue” states, background checks not class tends to go more number any other nation, meaning carrying a conjust criminally but also on smoothly when phones cealed weapon is allowed medical and mental health aren’t present. Mrs. Shel- with the gap between the US and next country not with a permit, but the history, or a stricter applidon added, “I take phones even being close. The granting of such permits cation or testing process, because I feel that kids numbers do not lie; gun is at the discretion of a lo- anything to weed out as who are texting are not ownership has become cal authority. Lastly, only many unqualified patrons paying attention to what excessive, almost abused, two states, Illinois and as possible needs to be I’m saying…and when and most certainly too Wisconsin, are “no-issue” done. If Jared Loughner, certain kids aren’t paying convenient. states where concealed the deranged shooter in attention, it’s difficult for Gun laws vary from carry is not allowed. So, Arizona, was deemed too them to understand what’s state to state, which this begs the question, psychologically unstable going on in class.” why is it acceptable for to attend community colIdeally, students should allows for even more discrepancy in the overall someone to carry a loadlege, why was he allowed realize that the majorgun control system. Tak- ed, concealed gun into a to carry a gun? ity of teachers do not go Alex Koroleff Views Editor
through their cell phones and read their private text messages. Likewise, teachers should have a larger understanding of why their students feel offended by the practice of electronic device confiscation in the first place. There are two sides to every great debate, but luckily, this one has the potential to be straightforwardly resolved.
IN ONE YEAR: -
Over 100,000 Americans are shot in murders, assaults, suicides, accidents, or by police intervention - 31,224 of those people die (3,067 are just children or teenagers) - 12,632 of them are murdered - 2,161 of which are children or teenagers
IN ONE DAY: -
286 Americans are shot in murders, assaults, suicides, accidents, or by police intervention - 86 of those people die (8 are children or teenagers) - 35 of them are murdered
Arts
Read a review of Lahser’s production of Hairspray along with pictures of the show, pages 2B and 3B
Page 4A
March 15, 2011
Local teen lands interview with Eminem Michael Gawlik Staff Writer 4 Platinum Albums, 10 Grammy nominations and a career as one of the world’s greatest rappers wasn’t enough to scare middle school student Annie Reed. Reed, an eighth-grader at East Hills, scored an interview with Detroit’s own Eminem, considered by many to be among the greatest musicians to come from the Motor City. The interview, which lasted about 10 minutes over the phone, was the first that Eminem has done since October - and was the result of Reed’s persistence and dedication. Writing for East Hills’ Cavalier Corner, Reed, 14, wanted to write about a Detroit Rapper, and Eminem was the perfect choice. "He grew up in Detroit, he's one of the greatest rappers of all time, and I thought it'd be fun to write about him,” she said. However, her teacher Ken Gechter presented a catch; she had to try and snag an interview with the superstar. “I got the interview by sending out 20 handwrit-
ten letters, none of which got responses, and calling Interscope and Shady Records, where Eminem records,” said Annie. “My first goal was to just get the interview.” And despite continued setbacks and failed attempts to contact Eminem or any of his producers, Reed continued to push forward. After emailing Dennis Dennehy, the rapper’s production manager, for a few weeks, Reed finally found success. “Eventually he set up an interview,” she said. "I just thought, 'Wow, here's a middle-school girl from Detroit who has some guts,'" Dennehy said to the Detroit Free Press. Annie’s guts were rewarded, as she was soon sitting anxiously at home, waiting for a 6 o’clock call from the rapper. “Hey Annie, how you doing?” said Eminem when Reed received the call on February 3rd. For the next 10 minutes, Annie lived a dream that
millions of Detroiter’s would die for- a chance to talk to the city’s biggest star. “I really wanted to get Eminem to open up and give me some really great quotes.” “She said this would be the coolest thing to ever happen for her school,” Dennehy said, commenting on one of her emails. And it most definately was. “It’s so cool that she got this interview,” says Soph. Shelby Henderson, an alumnus of East Hills. “It’s one of the coolest things to happen to Bloomfield this year.” Annie’s persistence and courage are certainly inspiring; daring students to go for their wildest dreams. “She shot for the stars and got one,” said Gechter. Annie hopes that her interview will help make a difference in kid’s goals and ambitions. “I think this will inspire future students to not be afraid to try.”
Uptown Film Festival to showcase films made in Michigan
Movie buffs, local filmmakers, and even just regular Joes who enjoy watching movies can get excited for Michigan’s first Uptown Film Festival (UFF) which will be hosted at 7:30 pm on Friday, March 11th and Saturday, March 12th. The two-night event will be taking place at Birmingham’s Palladium Theatre and the Birmingham 8, and will celebrate the growth of the Michigan film industry and those who have played key roles in its growth and success in the past few years. Specifically, the
inaugural festival is set to showcase motion pictures and television productions created entirely or partly in Michigan. “It’s great that they’re drawing attention to the movies made in Michigan,” says senior Amanda Paulsen. “It’s good publicity for our state.” The booming film industry has brought new life and new jobs to the state’s once autodependent economy. Over the past three years, more
Bianca Nguyen
recognize the accomplishments of independent Staff Writer films in Michigan on March 12th. The event will be primarily sponwill benefit the Michisored by Oakland County than 7,000 production gan economy, not just by Film, but other sponsors jobs have been created creating work, but there’s include the Michigan behind the camera and plenty of real estate avail- Film Office, Film Detroit, roughly 4,000 acting jobs able in the market that Huntington Bank, the in front of the camera, might appeal to celebrities Detroit Medical Center, making the film industry and directors as well.” and FIT Film Industry one of the fasting growIn association with the Training offered by The ing sectors of Michigan’s Detroit Independent Film Stautzenberger Institute. economy. Senior Novak There were more than Obsenica comments, “The Festival (DIFF), the UFF will also be hosting the 235 films submitted to rising interest in Detroit Michigan Film Awards to DIFF, but only the best as a movie making center
were selected for screening during the prestigious event. The larger Michigan film premieres to be showcased include “Kill the Irishman,” starring Christopher Walken, Val Kilmer, and Ray Stevenson, and “Things Fall Apart,” starring Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson and Ray Liotta. Tickets and VIP passes to the festival went on sale to the public on February 9th and can be purchased at http://www. uptownfilmfestival.com along with more information about the event.
“DUH, We owe it to Detroit WINNING!” Sarah Wirthlin
hardest by the recession. Time magazine reports Staff Writer that across the nation Think of a time when unemployment averages someone asked you where 6.7% of the labor force, you were from. Were you however in Detroit the hesitant or embarrassed figure comes to 15.1%. to reply? Did the word The fuel of Detroit, the “Detroit” not roll off of automotive industry, your tongue very easily? seemed to be the last A place where the autothing we had to hold mobile was produced, onto. With big companies and the Pistons, Tigers, like General Motors and and Lions brought home Chrysler declaring bankcountless wins. Many of ruptcy, many were turned our parents and grandaway from jobs that their parents experienced the families had moved here greatness of the city first- to have. Sr. Megan Robhand. It was here where inson explains “Even if the legend of Motown we don’t realize it, we was born. So why aren’t were all affected by the we proud to be from recession in some way or Detroit? What was once another.” The city slowly one of the crown jewels of fell apart as it’s foundaAmerica has since betion, the automobile come a blemish. industry, gave way. By now it is obvious Scandal and corruption that Detroit was hit the dug the knife even deeper
into the flesh of Detroit. Ex-Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick brought shame to a city in need. He eventually resigned after being charged with 10 felony accounts, including perjury and obstruction of justice. “With so many things going wrong for Detroit, we needed someone to build us up, not tear us apart,” comments Soph. Hannah Ward. During this year’s Superbowl program we were all moved by the powerful commercial made by Chrysler. Detroit quickly became a trending Twitter topic that night. Many around the country would agree it was the best commercial of the night, mainly because of the truth behind it. The words “This is Detroit, and this is what we do,”
rang out with conviction and seemed to hold the world at a stand-still. The fact of the matter is that most of us have strong ties to this city. We feel Detroit’ pain and rejoice in it’s triumphs. As the new generation of America, we need to tell of the greatness of this city, and make people want to come here. Mr. Laurinec sates “As for Bloomfield Hills high school students, you can be a part of a great urban revival. Get your degree in urban planning, public transportation, public health, public education policy, etc. Come back from college and move into the city to create the kind of critical mass that will demand change.” Detroit’s future lies in our hands.
Brooke Burchill Arts Editor Unless you’ve been in another country or living under a rock for the past two weeks, chances are you’ve heard of Charlie Sheen. The former “Two and a Half Men” actor recently took the media by storm when he decided to give 20/20 an inside look at his lifestyle and his home, aptly named Sober Valley Lodge. Sheen’s interviews mat have stirred the media, but it’s his signature catch phrases that really have the nation abuzz. In his interview with 20/20, he cooly exclaimed the phrases, “I’ve got tiger
blood,” and “Duh, winning!” Apart from his new catch phrases, Sheen also fondly calls his two, yes TWO, girlfriends his “goddesses”. Considering one is a porn star and the other is a cover model for a magazine focused completely on marijuana, it would seem that this pet name for his girls is accurate when coming from the mouth of a notorious party animal. Despite what you may be thinking about the nature of life in Sober Valley Lodge, Sheen and his “goddesses” assure everyone that they are indeed a functional family. One of his girls states, “It’s not a wild scene with Continued on page 4B
Life
Check out “We are the Exeriment” on page 6A!
March 15, 2011
Page 5A
SENIOR COUNTDOWN Samantha Klein Life Editor
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Congratulations seniors! You have finally made it to the last semester of your high school career. How does it feel? Great? Excellent? Like you can finally take a sigh of relief? It’s time for you to sit back and relax for the rest of the year. Most of you have already gotten into college and it’s just a matter of finishing out the school year. All you have left to do is look forward to everything left in your final weeks of high school.
VARIETY SHOW
17 SPRING BREAK 38 EASTER WEEKEND 54 MAN IN NATURE 61 PROM 73 MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND 80 LAST DAY OF SCHOOL 89 GRADUATION AND ALL KNIGHT PARTY
Lahser seniors canoeing in Kilarney.
Tweet the deets
Sarah Wirthlin Staff Writer
About one third of the students at Lahser High School are keeping a diary. Not literally, but on Twitter. Diaries and journals serve the purpose of recollecting on things that have happened recently and writing down how you’re
feeling. How is keeping a diary any different from tweeting? Twitter timelines can be seen as a chronology of one’s daily events and feelings. People tweet about the food they eat (@george234987 “Just had the best egg role EVER!”), the people they see, (@Georgina6747 “OMG hanging with my boyfriend!), the places
they go (@pistonsfanfolife “Just went to the pistons game. we owned”), and the way they’re feeling, (@katie101 “Ugh. So over him... for now...”). When a diary is kept, the writer’s biggest fear is that it will fall into the wrong hands and be read. This is not the case with twitter. Unless your tweets are blocked, anyone and everyone can and will read them.
Your feelings, actions, and beliefs are available for the world to see. Twitter claims “Our Services are primarily designed to help you share information with the world. Most of the information you provide to us is information you are asking us to make public.” Many follow popular tweeters like @Teensinlove, “re-tweeting” things like, “The hardest thing
to do is watch the one you love, love someone else.” Though they don’t mention who the “one they love” is, when they look back later at that tweet they will know just who they were thinking about. Twitter is a diary with no names directly mentioned. Though the sappy tweets are usually from girls, boys sometimes
put emotion into their thoughts. This generation doesn’t hold back when it comes to feelings. Everyone is connected in a personal way via Twitter or some other social networking system. Tweeting whereabouts and feelings makes for a close-knit era where people can easily relate to others.
10 things you didn’t know about me We all know Vergine Kanouno to be our beloved hall monitor, but the Lahser Newspaper Staff went the extra mile to find out facts about her that many may not know.
1. Loves to Travel 2. Graduated from Southfield Lathrope 3. Is a wife, mother, and grandmother 4. Loves watching sports 5. Played volleyball and tennis
Came to America from the Middle East at age 17 .6 Loves working at Lahser .7 Gives life and time to students .8 Loves fashion .9 Enjoys cooking .10
Life
Love sports? Find out some of our seniors’ favorite sports moments in the sports section.
March 15, 2011
Page 6A
Around the world with Radabaugh Staff Writer
Whether she is helping students find books, keeping the library organized, and making sure students stay productive, media specialist Mrs. Barbara Radabaugh has become a well known fixture here at Lahser. Knight Life got a chance to talk with her about her favorite life experiences. We found out that she is an avid traveler, having visited many states and three continents.
Bay View, MI
“I spend my summers up north in Petoskey. I leave as soon as school gets out.”
Yosemite National Park
With her husband, son, and his fiance. “At Yosemite, we hiked one of the most strenuous trails. We hiked beside two waterfalls and it took us eight hours.”
↑ Kenya
With her son, Josh, and Masai warriors in a Kenyan village. “This trip was a photographic safari. Visiting Africa was a dream of mine and it was everything I hoped for and more.”
Radabaugh explores the ruins at Battle Alley in England with her husband. The Battle of Hastings took place here in 1066 A.D.
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↑
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Battle Alley
Australia
↑
Jazmynn Croskey
While in Australia, Radabaugh pauses for a moment of play with the wallabies. “I went there with my older son and was there for two weeks. It was very hot and we went there in February. My favorite thing about the whole trip was the Great Barrier Reef.”
Grand Canyon
With her husband Jim, and son Jordan and his girlfriend Margie at Grand Canyon National Park. “The Grand Canyon makes you feel really minuscule. You see pictures of it, but it doesn’t do it justice.”
We are the experiment Michael Padilla Staff Writer New technology brings new risks, it’s inherent. The rapid rise in popularity of wireless headsets has sparked debate about potential health risks to our brain, including cancer.
Bluetooth headsets are no exception. Let’s start by clearing up a few misconceptions. Both Bluetooth devices and cell phones do emit some radiation; the United States has decided that any absorption of radiation above 1.6 watts per kilogram (2.2 lbs) to be dangerous to the body. Bluetooth headsets radi-
ate .001 watts per kilogram and cell phones radiate about .25 watts per kilogram. While this amount of radiation is much lower than what the US deems to be “dangerous,” it’s your call if you want to take the risk. So far, studies have had conflicting results; a few early studies showed that the radiation was dangerous
to our bodies. However, all available scientific research shows that mobile devices are safe, but further research is necessary, according to the United States Food and Drug Administration, the US Federal Communications Commission, and the United Kingdom National Radiological Protection Board.
“There’s nothing dangerous about Bluetooth,” says Senior Brian Freeburg, “It uses the same technology as cell phones so using Bluetooth is like holding a cell phone to your ear.” People have been using cell phones for 2 decades now and there are no widespread problems.
When cigarettes first became popular, little was known about the detrimental effects on your body. However, decades later, it was easy to see that they are extremely unhealthy and dangerous. Right now we are the experiment; when our kids are our age we will find out the real effects of Bluetooth technology.
Sports
Good luck to all sports teams! Keep it up! KNIGHTS!
March 17, 2011
Page 1B
Senior sports stars reflect Lauren Cooke Luke Dauch Jake Landis Kristen Okuniewski Ryan Toussaint Reily Manz
Staff Writer
Some may argue that high school memories are some of the best memories one will ever have in life. For most, they will remember their high school sweethearts, school dances, and how terrible the food was being served in the cafeteria. But for all the jocks and sports fans alike, high school memories are comprised mostly of touchdowns, homeruns and slam-dunks. When asked, these Lahser seniors had no problem sharing their most memorable sports moments…
Swimming
Football/Baseball
M o s t
M e m o r a b l e
“Tapping the touch “My second to last football game against Hazel Park pad & realizing that when I had 220 receiving I had accomplished [yards] and 2 touchdowns at a state cut during my the last grass field I would last swim meet.” ever play football on.”
P r o u d e s t “Participating & making it through Swimming, skiing & soccer all four years of high school. As well as making it to three state meets!”
Soccer
“Winning the Country Day Tournament, which Lahser had never done before.”
I n d i v i d u a l
“When I was tabbed a pre-season All-American by Perfect Game USA and signing my National Letter of Intent to play division 1 baseball in the Big Ten!”
“Firstly, being named 1st team All-State, and the second would be scoring six goals in the district game.”
Volleyball
Cross Country
M o m e n t “Just having fun with all the girls at all of the volleyball tournements!”
“Attending the state cross-country meet junior year at Michigan Interstate Speedway.”
A c h i e v e m e n t “Probably becoming the captain of the Volleyball team.”
“Being on varsity cross-country for four years.”
Tigers’ slugger arrested on DUI charge Bianca Nguyen Staff Writer Tigers’ player Miguel Cabrera was arrested late at night on February 16th after a police deputy spotted him in a car with a smoking engine in Florida, just over 100 miles south of the Tigers’ spring training ground in Lakeland. Reports say the 27-yearold reeked of alcohol, had slurred speech, and even took a swig from a bottle of scotch right in front of the officer. He refused to take a breathalyzer test and was further uncooperative by running out into the road and resisting the officer with violence. After failing to comply with orders, more deputies were called to the scene
American League MVP vote. Cabrera is under a $153.2 million eight-year contract with the Detroit Tigers that won’t expire until 2015, and was expected to be paid $20 million for this season. It seems now that he may not have been such a safe endorsement and no one can ignore how his DUI arrest may affect his onthe-field performance and number of games played. “It’s sad that he might lose a lot because of this one stupid decision,” says senior Amanda Paulsen. The news of his arrest shocked everyone when it reached the Tigers’ spring training complex. The team’s president and general manager, Dave Dombrowski, and Cabrera’s fellow teammates, including close friends catcher Alex Avila and second
baseman Carlos Guillen, have expressed their shock about the incident, mainly because they believed any problems the player may have had were already thoroughly addressed. However, they are less concerned about the baseball part and more worried about Cabrera’s personal situation. The team is a family and they’re all waiting for him to come back and are prepared to help him overcome his issues. It’s unlikely that Cabrera will serve jail time, but it’s still too early to know how his 2011 season will be affected if his alcohol problem remains unresolved.
“… Confidence, strength and heart,” said freshman Armand Cartwright concerning the key to winning the basketball State playoffs. After waiting an entire season, the Lahser Knight’s men’s basketball team
will finally be entering the playoffs this March. With an opening game on the 7th against Detroit Country Day, the Knights have a tough schedule ahead of them. The 2011 Country Day team has a starting lineup full of impact players that
will surely make it tough on the Knights lineup. Starting forward Andrew Gikas (sophomore) says “Certain players will have to step up to the challenge in order to defeat D.C.D. We’re [gonna] have to work hard in practice and play even harder in the
game. If we do that, we’re [gonna] win. Go Knights!” Senior forward B.J. LaVallis also says “It could go either with a positive attitude and the right mindset!” The predicted starting lineup for the playoff game includes senior
So, what’s going on with the chargers? The warm spring season is finally here, but fans will still be filling the stands in the cold ice rink throughout the month of March to cheer
on the Bloomfield Chargers Hockey Team as they enter the playoffs. The Chargers will face Warren Mott in the first round and are heavily favored to win. “We’ve had a strong regular season and
we are entering the playoffs with new attitudes and confidence to win” says Jr. forward Kyle Gumbleton. If Bloomfield wins their first game they will go up against a Michigan powerhouse, Brother Rice in the
second round. wish a good luck to the “We are just going Andover/Lahser Charto take it one game at gers! a time and not worry about who we are going up against next” says Soph. forward Kevin Barnett. Make sure to
and put Cabrera in handcuffs as he continued to curse at them. “The way he acted is ridiculous, it’s even kind of funny,” comments senior Alex Landschulz. Cabrera was released from jail at 7:45 a.m. the next day after posting $1,350 bond, but it seems no amount of money can wash away the player’s shame. Although Cabrera has struggled with drinkingrelated problems in the past (he was arrested by police in 2009 after his wife filed a domesticabuse complaint following a drunken altercation), it seemed that he had tamed his demons after coming off perhaps his best season. In 2010, he hit .328 with 38 home runs and finished second in the
Miguel Cabrara playing last season
Lahser Teams Face Playoff Games Basketball Reilly Manz Staff Writer
Hockey Connor Wood Staff Writer
point guard Bryant Charters, senior forward B.J. LaVallis, sophomore Guard Martez Jones, sophomore forward Andrew Gikas, and freshman Yante Maten. Be sure to go out and support your Knights!
Mike Neff and Callie Beltowski sing a love song
Motormouth Maybelle’s Crew fight for integration
Alyssa Kitts, Sidney King and Janah Cummings belt it out Katelyn Atkinson getting into character
Morgan Parr prepares for the big performance
The Baltimorians gossip outside Mr. Pinky’s Hefty Hideaway
A few of the Baltimore news reporters
Fall musical leaves Lahser wanting more Julia Long
Matt Cunningham and the “Nicest Kids in Town”
Callie Beltowski and the Baltimorians
Katelyn Atkinson and Brooke Burchill acting as mother and daughter
Staff Writer Lahser has never failed to gratify when it comes to musical theater, acing a multitude of plays from Little Shop of Horrors to Murders of 1940. This year, our theater department more than fulfilled its expectations once again. Hairspray cast members—backed by the tagline “when you follow your own beat, the world will follow you!”— rocked the auditorium, showcasing skills of the stage that didn’t disappoint. Perhaps the best part of the performances (which took place from February 17-19) was the cast. Freshman Callie Beltowski took the lead as Tracy Turnblad, her unforgettable voice prominent despite her heavy costume. Without missing a beat, the grade nine starlet perfected every dance step and hit each high note. Morgan Parr, the junior who portrayed Beltowski’s wacky best friend, indeed captured her role flawlessly. The silly shrieks and madcap hand gestures she cleverly wove into her act totally matched the nature of her character Penny Pingleton. Sophomore Katelyn Atkinson and senior Brooke Burchill, who played Amber and Velma Von Tussle, respectively, wowed audiences with jaw-dropping vocal presentation. Edna Turnblad, Tracy’s offthe-wall mother, was expertly played by senior Craig Kaplan. Despite the gender gap between he and his character, Kaplan was a clever and convincing actor. Senior Whooby Deriveau played Motormouth Maybelle and displayed her first-rate vocal talents during such solo numbers as “Big, Blonde and Beautiful.” Also vocally astounding, the Dynamites were portrayed by Sidnee King, Alyssa Kitts and Jannah Cum-
mings. Other notable cast members included Matt Cunningham as Corny Collins, Mike Neff as Link Larkin, Chris Sykes/ John Collier as Seaweed Stubbs, Ellyce Ferguson as Little Inez, Michael Banerian as Wilbur Turnblad, Courtney Eathorne as Prudy Pingleton, Brian Freeburg as Mr. Pinky, Emily Pearce as the Gym Teacher, Timmy Peters as Harriman F. Spritzer, and Kristen Okuniewski as the Matron. Members of the pit orchsetra also stunned the audience with performances steeped in serious musicianship, and the stage crew is obviously committed and successful in achieving their objectives. The play’s Act 1 kicks off with “Good Morning Baltimore,” a whimsical number that fills the stage with colorful costumes and smiling faces. One of the most notable characteristics of “Good Morning Baltimore” is that especially creative props (including a unicycle) are utilized. A few numbers later, “I Can Hear the Bells” effectively introduces the audience to the chemistry between plump, awkward Tracy and fit, famous Link Larkin. “Miss Baltimore Crabs” is up next, a catchy song with comedic aspects that truly showcases Burchill’s top-notch musical theater voice. Additionally, it demonstrates to the audience the seriousness and triviality of racism and discrimination in the 1960s. Its grave undertones are contrasted perfectly by “The Nicest Kids in Town Reprise,” which is satirically and intentionally enveloped with saccharine sweetness. “It Takes Two” is up next, a groovy, flowing ballad excellently performed by Neff. As the play takes a turn for the revolutionary, “Welcome to the 60s” incorporates a resonating recital starring the Dynamites that
absolutely floors. At this point in the play, the cast efficiently reacts to the thickening of the plot. Actors move a bit more fluidly and pump up their expressions with passion, exemplifying their true performing abilities. In an attempt to integrate the all-white “Corny Collins Show,” Tracy and her gang of protesters land themselves in jail. Act 2 commences in a truly spine-chilling manner. Standing behind thick prison bars, the cast members wear believably dismal expressions. The complications of jail culture are elaborated on in “The Big Dollhouse,” to which most everyone on the stage contributes substantially. “You’re Timeless to Me,” a silly love song starring Kaplan and Banerian, acts as both a mitigating break from jail and a fall-on-yourface-laughing comedy performance. After Tracy is broken out of jail with Link’s assistance and the increasingly important “Miss Hairspray” competition has nearly been won by stuck-up Amber, “You Can’t Stop the Beat” steals the show. Tracy’s amount of votes in the “Miss Hairspray” contest skyrockets. Beltowski and the rest of the cast put on an estatic and enjoyable show as Tracy takes the ultimate prize; not only is she named “Miss Hairspray,” but her attempts at integrating “The Corny Collins Show” ultimately succeed. Conclusively, this year’s Hairspray was, without a doubt, a fivestar play. The cast members were well-trained and talented, the orchestra rocked out in the pit, and the stage crew could not have done a better job. Act 1 was a fun, whimsical introduction to real and deep-rooted issues; the story line solidified itself in Act 2, and the cast finished strong with a finale that stole the show.
Arts
Get to know Lahser’s favorite hall monitor, Virgine, on page 5A
March 15, 2011
Page 4B
Follow the Yellow brick road...
to Michigan!
Shannon McAvoy Staff Writer There’s no place like Michigan! There’s no place like Michigan! There’s no place like Michigan! The rumors are true; Johnny Depp followed the yellow brick road and ended up in Pontiac, Michigan where Raleigh Production Studios will be filming Oz, the Great and Powerful, Disney’s prequel to the original The Wizard of Oz. The pirate we all know and love will soon be trading in his ship to discover the magical land of Detroit . The General Motors Plant located on Opdyke Road between South Boulevard and Square Lake
was recently announced as the main site for upcoming film powerhouse Raleigh Production Studios. Filming is said to begin this Spring, meaning Oz, the Great and Powerful, will be the first Raleigh production to take. This will hopefully bring forth jobs and opportunities to citizens of Pontiac, one of the most downtrodden neighborhoods in Metro-Detroit. “It’s encouraging to hear that the film industry in Michigan is really taking off right when our economy needs it the most,” says Sr. Sarah Dugas. The 3-D prequel, in summary, is about a young illusionist who escapes from the circus. He then takes a hot air
balloon and gets caught in a tornado which brings him to Oz. Depp will be playing the main role of the escaped circus employee. The role was originally given to Robert Downey Jr., who dropped the part due to prior commitments. The film has already created a buzz to the much celebrated 1939 original, a favorite to young and old audiences alike. Juniors Veronika Loza and Ana Fernandez agree Johnny Depp is perfect for the role. “We’ve never seen him in a movie where his part isn’t weird, so this is par for the course”. Depp will also be working on other films this spring such as The Rum Diary, Dark Shadows, and In Search of Ted Demme.
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BIEBER FEVER! Love him or hate him, there’s no escaping Justin Bieber. The Biebster is everywhere, and Knight Life got the scoop on which students and staff have have full-blown Bieber Fever and which have managed to resist the bug.
Jr. John MacKenzie has the fever
Fr. Lauren Blanding is a Belieber
Mrs. DeLuca is a Bieber fan
Ms. Schulz stands alone in resisting the Biebster
Sr. BJ Lavallis loves Biebs
Charlie Sheen is “winning” continued from page 4A jealous girls and exwives,” (Sheen has three: Denise Richards, Brooke Mueller, and Donna Peele). Sheen himself insists that Sober Valley Lodge is “...all things beautiful. There’s cleansing, there’s healing here, there’s laughter and children, there’s beautiful women and perfect food. We just win.” It’s no doubt Shen has been “winning” ever since his infamous interview with 20/20. He created a twitter account later that week and accumulated 2 million followers in his first 24 hours on the social
networking site. Now up to 2.5 million followers, Sheen isn’t planning on losing anytime soon. While many may agree with Sheen’s self-proclaimed “rockstar” title, most people don’t understand the nature of his erratic behavior. Sheen’s habit of saying whatever comes to mind indicates that he is going through withdrawals. During interviews, he often lights a cigarette, smokes half of it, then lights a new one. This is also an indication of the severe withdrawal Sheen is experiencing from his party boy lifestyle. So, while Sheen has been winning infamy, he may be losing his battle with sobriety.
Sports March 17, 2011
Page 5B
ATHLETE OF THE MONTH: Nick Neville
in the nation. Scouting reports say that Neville is one of the most solid Staff Writer defensive players in the A great combination of 1993 birth year NHL draft class. skill, desire, and leaderHis style of play modship is what gave Nick els that of Nicklas LidNeville the honor of strom, of the Detroit Red Lahser’s top athlete of the month. Neville plays wings, who is always making the smart play. AAA hockey for Detroit He also uses his great Little Caesars in the shot and skating abilities Tier One Elite Hockey League. The Tier One is to generate a bit of offense for his team. one of the most heavily Many student athletes scouted amateur leagues juggle school, sports, by junior teams as well family, and friends but as division one colleges how does Nick manage with hockey programs. The league consists of 25 such a demanding hockey schedule? “It’s a very teams spread throughout the country and is divided difficult thing to do.” into five divisions. Little Neville says, “We practice three or four times a Caesars is one of five teams in the Detroit divi- week and play anywhere from one to five games sion and among the best Connor Wood
“When I’m not at the rink, I like to spend my free time just relaxing and spending time with my friends.”
in a weekend all over the country. Most of my teachers are flexible and work with me to make up all my assignments I miss when the team is on the road. When I’m not at the rink, I like to spend my free time just relaxing and spending time with my friends, which I often miss out on.” The real question is, what is in the future for Nick Neville? In June, Neville will attend multiple “invite only” tryout camps for junior teams. There, he will battle for a spot on a 23 man roster against other top hockey prospects. “I hope to end up playing for the Des Moines Buccaneers in the United States Hockey League” Neville says. “My good friend and
rival Connor Wood was drafted there last spring in the USHL futures draft. “Moving away from home to play hockey is a tough thing to do, so having Connor alongside would make the experience more comfortable and enjoyable.” Neville has already attracted the attention of multiple division one schools and will end up committing to a university to play hockey within the next two years. It’s only a matter of time before Neville starts to attract NHL scouts. Maybe someday his dream of becoming a professional hockey player will come true. As of now he is defiantly on the right track to his dream.
Skiing a Slippery Slope
Jr. John Mackenzie Alaina Jones Staff Writer Bitter cold, far driving distances and difficulty viewing the sport are some of the obstacles that prevent fans from attending the Lahser Ski Team’s meets. “There are some parents who go, but, ultimately, it’s cold and too far away for friends to drive,” said Sr. Samantha Klein. For most sports
Jr. Dan Allen all the athletes must do is walk down the hall, go to the locker room and prepare for that day’s grueling practice. Members of the ski team, however, must commute to practice, often enduring difficult weather conditions. “If it’s too cold, or even if it’s too warm, we can’t practice,” said Jr. John MacKenzie. Monday through Thursday, members of the Lahser Ski Team must make the drive to Pine Knob in
Cracking down on physicals Reilly Manz
Staff Writer Lately, the unexpected death of Wes Leonard of Fennville, Michigan has been all over the news. A start athlete, nobody would have thought that such a gifted athlete
would have been brought to his demise by a sport he loved. Leonard, 16, died on the 4th of March after scoring the winning basket in the last game of his perfect, junior season due to an enlarged heart
Soph. Laura Holmes
Sr. Sarah Hintch
order to have a functional practice. Without a ski hill there is little that can be done to prepare for the meets other than conditioning at Lahser. “Some days we share the bus with Andover , while others days we take our own bus,” McKenzie continued. “It works but does not make sense.” Skiing is primarily an individual sport, but like any other sport, the support of teammates is key. Support is the best attri-
bute for a team to be successful. “For many races we can either qualify individually or as a team to advance to the next level,” said MacKenzie. “It just depends.” The team was disappointed by the outcome of the divisional races, which took place on February 9 and 10. “Our GS (giant slalom) racing wasn’t up to par that day,” Klein said. “No members on the boy’s or girl’s teams placed.”
The regional race, which took place on Thursday, January 17th did not favor the Lahser ski team. Only two of the Varsity Skiers will be moving on to the State Races. Sarah Hinch qualifying in giant slalom and slalom, and Laura Holms qualifying in giant slalom will be skiing in the State Races. Semi races will be held of February 22, if the skiers place high enough in these races they will move on to the final
races on February 28th at Boyne Mountain . To go out into the cold and ski for countless hours a huge commitment factor comes into play. The ski team knows the slopes of Pine Knob like the back of their hands, skiing from 4 to 6 p.m. every day. From bonding on the ski lift, to shredding up the slopes the ski team has had a great season. With an unfavorable ending the ski team looks to an even better season next winter.
that went unchecked for his entire life. Other than being a terrible tragedy for all of those who knew him, his death also stirs up questions about possibly tightening the physical specifications athletes must meet in order to compete in high school sports. “I think it should be the responsibility of the player to know
about any existing medical condition/s if he/she is going to play organized sports,” says Sophomore Andrew Gikas. Lahser High school athletic director, Avis Najor, could not agree more. “The policy in the district is fine the way it is. The physicals that students undergo are basic and cover what is
normally expected by the MHSAA and the district. The cost of the physicals and the type of insurance coverage that families have plays a role. Making the physicals stricter or include more tests may not be cost efficient in the eyes of health care providers.” Najor also adds “My humble opinion on what athletes, and students
in general, should do is to get a yearly physical. Many students do not. This is a good habit which should last throughout a person’s life. It can be helpful in detecting many health problems early.” If more student-athletes follow these healthy habits, maybe more tragic incidents like this could be avoided in the future.
News
Lahser’s Variety Show will be on 3/22 and 3/23 from 7-10 pm The Model UN team will compete at MSU on 3/25 ,"-.&01
!"#$%&'()&*+''
the TEXT
X Brian Freeburg Staff Writer
Texting while driving is a dangerous fad that is sweeping across the nation. This destructive habit is often talked about, but hardly ever becomes a realistic danger until teenagers are forced to deal with the consequences. That is why Allstate
insurance has teamed up with over 300 schools throughout the country to promote their new “X the Text” campaign. Part of their safe driving pledge includes presenting shocking information to teens in an attempt to scare them straight. For example, according to The Oakland Press,
taking your eyes off the road for a mere 5 seconds while driving at 55 miles per hour is the equivalent of driving the length of a football field blind. With the texting-whiledriving trend on the rise, it seems that pledging to “X the Text” is the smartest measure you can take to help keep the roads safe.
Enriching Education Many Lahser students, like Soph. Mitchell Black, approve of and enjoy the IB program and all it has to offer Matt Cunningham Editor in Chief
The IB program is rumored to have one major flaw, and that is its lack of appreciation for the An advanced education, arts. This misconception a competitive resume and is simply a function of an enriched experience confusion and ignorance. in the arts are just a few Hall told the Knight Life benefits afforded to the that “higher level visual students who participate arts with Mrs. York will in the International Baccabe available to IB students laureate Diploma Proin the class of 2013.” The gramme. The IB proprogram is considergram at Lahser offers a ing adopting vocal and wide range of college instrumental music, as level credits paired well as a film class. As with an education pathHall points out, “The IB way that ensures schoprogram does not ignore lastic success. Despite the arts. We are looking the positive benefits of to develop well-rounded this advanced acastudents.” demic program, many The IB program students are scared off provides a complete and by the intense work enriched education load and deSophmore Mitchell Black likes the while managing to manding credit academic independence that the IB shine a light on the requirements. arts. This advanced program offers The paradoxical program is not question at hand mandatory for all students is whether the extra work get their IB diploma can and will probably always is worth the enhanced get up to 30 credits toremain optional. As Mrs. education. wards college education, Hall would put it, the IB To help students see the compared to the typical program will remain, “a more favorable aspects student who graduates school within a school.” of the IB program, the with 15 credits.” Knight Life sat down with Assistant Principal, Mrs. Hall to get her input. Hall believes the IB program can be helpful and even advantageous on a resume or college application, “because it is internationally know for its challenge and rigor.” She also noted that, “students who
Curriculum Changes Cont. well as Mr.Brazle, one of the staff members of the math department stated, “All of our classes will be reshaped to become IB.” “All classes, except Algebra II, will be IB, HL or SL level classes and require more from our students. It will require them to be better problem solvers and lead them to become better students.” The last department to undergo change to meet the requirements of the IB program is the Social Studies department. KnightLife discussed these new classes with Mrs. DiPilato, one of the
Vice -Principals of Lahser. “There are a lot of new classes being offered! IB History of the Americas will be a Social Studies elective and be taught by Mrs. Maicki. This class will allow students to carefully examine the history of the Americas.” She also added, “IB 21st Century Topics will be a Social Studies credit and offer the students an exciting opportunity to discuss and debate the world around us.” Finally, some of Lahser’s non IB curriculum will be updated. Digital Narratives in Filmmak-
ing will allow students to study and dissect media production, along with creating programming like a studio show, PSA (Public Service Announcement) and a newscast. This class will be offered as an English credit while teaching students about the exciting world of film/ TV production. “This is one of the best classes I have ever taken,” mentioned a former Lahser film student. Students and staff are looking forward to these positive changes. Make sure to see your counselor for more information.
Some schools see rise in Illegal registration Erin Antonishen Staff Writer Who knew that trying to open better educational opportunities for her children would land Akron, Ohio resident Kelley Willaims-Bolar behind bars. January 15, 2011, jury convicted WilliamsBolar, a woman pursuing a career in education who made the decision to send her children to a higher-ranked school in a neighboring community; but failed to recognize that her children were ineligible of attending there. Although WilliamBolar’s ex-husband lived within the boundaries of the school district, Kelley Williams-Bolar was slapped with accusations of misrepresentation on account of her actions. Accused for lying about her address, falsifying records and using false papers in attempts to cheat her way around the court
system, the punishment that went hand-in-hand with these crimes sent this mother to ten days in prison. Because the incident was of such significance for people throughout the country and WilliamsBolar’s story was getting reactions out of parents nation wide, 600 people rallied in her favor and met in a church to speak out and attempt to get Williams-Bolar cleared of charges. “We cannot have one nation that goes by zip codes. Either you have one nation or you don’t have one nation,” Reverend Sharpton, the Reverend at the church rally said. WilliamsBolar’s career could be at risk from these charges, and people are doing what they can to get WilliamsBolar’s record back to a clean slate. It is not a rare occurrence that parents looking out for the educations of their children are sneaking past proper educa-
tion guidelines and illegally enrolling in schools. Bloomfield Hills and Birmingham School Districts are considered among the highest ranking districts in the state, and perhaps the nation. It is presumed that residents from various cities are using addresses of grandparents, uncles, or other family members. Some have cleverly sought alternative loopholes to slide their way into the stream of these systems and avoid the hefty out-of-district tuitions. As of this September, Lahser’s records show that there are currently nineteen out of district students enrolled here at Lahser. Enrolling as an out of district student involves paying a set fee, but counselor Mr. Anthony Midea also explains that if a parent works in the district, their child may attend for no fee, despite where their home is actually located.
Dr. Robert Ferguson Gastroenterologist 4256 Orchard Lake Road West Bloomfield, MI 48323 248.682.1720