October 2010

October 2010 - Volu me 73

Inside This Issue

- Issu e2

Detroit’s current state

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An in-depth look at Michigan’s motor city as seen from the eyes of students and Detroiters.

Erebus haunts Pontiac 1 80 S.

Livernois

- Rochester High School - Rochester Hills M

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An intense haunted house changes yearly to enhance audience’s experience.

7 I, 4830

CYBER - BULLYING:

Mentally Destroying teens

Photo Illustration

by Brian Palmer

Emily Hayward Feature Editor No one likes you.

You’re ugly and stupid.

You’re nasty. Go kill yourself.

As junior Caitlyn Kuskowski walked down the hallway, the words seemed trapped in her brain. While she said she tried to convince herself that they were only words, she still couldn’t believe how harsh other students had been to her.

“It definitely made me feel down and upset to have people say these things to me,” Kuskowski said. “I felt like I was less of a person, like I wasn’t important. It was like I didn’t matter.”

For Kuskowski, the cruel words were delivered by Formspring, a site that allows people to anonymously ask questions.

Kuskowski said she first created a Formspring for fun, but it soon spiraled out of control.

“Everyone had one,” Kuskowski said. “I just thought it would be something really fun. But now there’s no use to it. No one ever says anything nice to me; it’s all mean and inappropriate stuff.”

Although not every teen has a Formspring, Kuskowski is not alone. Many teens, like Kuskowski, are victims of what is known as cyber-bullying, or the ridicule of a student by another student online. According to Mrs. Christina Isaacs, a psychologist at Blue Water Counseling in Troy, cyber-bullying is becoming an increasing problem.

“In today’s world, technology plays a huge role in communication,” Mrs. Isaacs said.

“Sure, the technology can be helpful at times; but it can also be used in extremely hurtful ways. This is especially true in teenagers, who are more vulnerable to being bullied because they generally place a lot of value in what people think of them.”

According to the National Crime Prevention Council (NCPC), the incidences of cyberbullying have dramatically increased over the past year, as 43 percent of teens reported that they have experienced some form of cyberbullying. The study also revealed that cyber-bullying is most prevalent among 15 and 16-year-olds. In fact, more than 50 percent of this total age group admitted to being the victim of at least one cyber-bullying incident in the past year.

Unfortunately, Mrs. Isaacs said,

What to do if you’re being cyber-bullied:

STOP

1.

– don’t respond and add fuel to the fire

Do you think cyber bullying is a problem for RHS Students?

BLOCK

2. the person or the message – don’t revisit the scene of the crime 3.

some of these cyber-bullying cases produce devastating results.

“Teens have become really dependent on social networking sites like Formspring, Facebook, and Myspace,” Mrs. Isaacs said.

“Sadly, these sites are commonly used to tease others. This is mostly because bullies can’t see the reaction of their victims when they use the Internet as their weapon. It’s almost as if the ridicule has no consequence at all.”

However, sophomore Lauren Cates said that social networking sites can be beneficial.

“I have a Formspring and a Facebook,” Cates said. “I love them both. Formspring gives people a chance to ask me things they’re curious about but wouldn’t want to ask in person, and Facebook lets me keep in touch with family and friends. Social networking sites in general – Formspring, Facebook, Myspace – are all a really easy way of staying connected.”

According to Cates, students simply need to understand that there are risks associated with social networking sites and be prepared.

“It’s important for teens to not take what the bullies say to heart,” Cates said. “Some people can be really mean and most of the things they say aren’t even true. I’ve been cyber-bullied before, but it really doesn’t make me feel bad.

I know the type of person I am, and the things other people say to me can’t change that.”

While Cates said she ignores bullies, this is not the case for many students.

“I am who I am today because of the people that bullied me throughout my life,” junior Kyle Wills said. “It hurts a lot to be bullied, especially cyber-bullied, because you’re at home and you don’t have anyone to talk to. It only makes what the bully says worse because you don’t have the friend support to tell you that what the bully said was a load of crap.”

The effects of cyber-bullying have prompted many people to take action. However, since the problem is relatively new, there are many different opinions on how it should be handled.

“This isn’t like any other problem we’ve seen before,” Mrs. Isaacs said. “The technology is so new that people just don’t know how to deal with it. Schools aren’t sure about when they can step in, students don’t know what to do when they see it happening, and most parents aren’t able to keep updated.”

Although there is no definite solution in sight, Kuskowski said the most important thing is for students to stay true to who they are.

“When someone says something anonymously, it hurts even worse because they can’t come to your face and say it,” Kuskowski said. “But you really just have to take it with a grain of salt and let it go. You’re better than they are.”

TELL a trusted adult

poll based on 205 RHS student responses

Source: stopcyberbullying.org

Cyber-bullying related suicides Jon Carmichael Age 13 died March 28, 2010, Texas Raymond Chase Age 19 died Sept.

29, 2010, New York

Megan Meier Age 13 died Oct. 17, 2006, Missouri

Asher Brown Age 13 died Sept.

23, 2010, Texas Tyler Clementi Age 18 died Sept 22, 2010, New Jersey

Billy Lucas Age 15 died Sept. 9, 2010 Indiana

Seth Walsh Age 13 died Sept.

28, 2010 California

Pheobe Prince Age 15 died Jan. 14, 2010 Massachusetts

Talon News Rochester’s review of R&R

2

the

October 2010

What began as a simple test at neighboring Stoney Creek High School, has become one of the most talked about changes to occur for this school year: R& R, Recharge and Reteach.

“Mr. Miesch and I wrote our thesis papers on how effective something like ‘chill time’ would be,” social studies teacher Mrs. Sarah Miesch said. “Stoney Creek [High School] was kind of a experiment. [Chill time] worked over there, so I wanted to bring it here.”

In Mrs. Miesch’s opinion, there’s a deeper reason as to why a program like R&R was needed at RHS. “I think we needed more positive reinforcement,” Mrs. Miesch said. “It targets specific students that are right on the fringe of a D or an E, and if [R&R] is used properly, it could bring up those grades to a C at least. It could serve as motivation to get better grades.”

However, not all faculty agree with this new addition.

“I’m not opposed to the idea as much as the way its structured,” chemistry teacher Mrs. Jan Lucius said. “I’d prefer to see them build time into the day by taking a couple minutes away from every class rather than a 15 minutes chunk from one class.”

Despite some disagreements, the R&R program is scheduled to run all year, and students, as well as teachers, are directly affected.

“It definitely is helpful,” senior Celene Mo said. “It has the potential to motivate kids, and an extra 15 minutes of on-on-one time with a teacher

Students catch up on assignments. Photo by Taylor Holmes

Juniors Gloria Lim and Emily Beecher recharge by taking a quick nap. Photo by Taylor Holmes

could really make a difference.”

Despite general approval from students and many staff members, parents have yet to weigh in on the new alteration. Mrs. Miesch prepares to face animosity.

“If a parent has any questions, their child’s grades should be their answer,” Mrs. Miesch said. “If your student was getting a D but is now getting a C at the cost of 15 minutes of class, then I think the answer should be apparent. And students who can participate in R&R can still go and get help if they want it. Every student can benefit from it.”

The Next R&R:

Seniors Lauren Lipphardt, Tori Pagnani, and Mariyem Naboulsi talk in the hallway. Photo by Taylor Holmes

Friday 10/22 , sixth hour

After that:

Tuesday 10/26, first hour

And after that: Thursday 10/28, second hour

Seniors Rachel Horton and Luca Cutraro. Photo by Taylor Holmes

Election inspires first-time voters

This November, many RHS students will be voting for the first time

It will be cold outside. Most kids his age will still be in bed, sleeping or enjoying the day off school. But not senior Jacob Zundel. He’ll be up and about due to the fact it’s Election Day and that it will be his first chance to step into the voting booth. And after scanning over the ballot, Zundel will punch out the little dot, deciding who he wants to lead this state.

“I’m going to vote so I can make sure our county isn’t in the toilet, a country that is mainly led by one party and everyone doesn’t have a say,” Zundel said. “A House [of representatives] and Senate shouldn’t be the same party because that’s only one type of principle’s ruling.”

According to statistics from the U.S. Census Bureau, during the 2008 presidential election, there were 206,074 people ages 18-24. Of all those, 131,144 people voted, or 63 percent of that age group. In most elections, young people don’t vote due to lack of interest, but obviously 2008 was a little different according to government teacher Mr. Neil Deluca.

“That election was different [than normal elections],” Mr. Deluca said. “And inspired more people because it was the first time in history that an African-American was nominated by a major party, and he was young and pretty relatable to people.”

Though off-year elections, such as this one,

Republican candidate for governor Rick Snyder talking with reporters at the Republican covention at the Breslin Center on August 28, 2010. Photo by KATHLEEN GALLIGAN/Detroit Free Press

where the people elect governor, members of US Congress and other positions, may have less voter interest, many are still looking forward to casting their ballot.

“I want to have a say in who’s leading for the next four years,” senior Tom Hayward said. “It’s going to feel good because I get to have a say and I’ve never voted before. It’ll be pretty cool.”

Even people who aren’t going to be 18 say they are excited and can’t wait for the opportunity

to vote.

“It’s our political duty to vote,” senior Heather Duncanson said, who will only by 17 on the day of the election. “If we want things to change, we need to put people in office who we think will do things. If you don’t vote, you don’t really get a say in what you want to be changed.”

Mr. Deluca agrees.

“For sure, voting is important,” he said, “Especially in America because in some

countries you can’t vote, and you don’t have that right. I felt privileged, excited and I felt like I was participating in our Constitutional rights [the first time I voted]. We have the power to make a change, and that is where change starts.”

In the 2008 presidential election, people looked to now-president Barack Obama and the Democratic party for change. In 2010, for some, that tide has flipped, causing them to look to the Republicans for change.

“In Michigan since Democrats have had the position of power the last eight years, I think power will go back to the Republicans since people are going to be looking for change and a different message,” Mr. Deluca said.

On the other hand, some just vote for the candidate they believe is mostly for the people.

“I don’t really believe in any party,” Zundel said. “I’d vote for anyone who is doing stuff for the people, not their party. Both parties are set on their own goals. They don’t care about the country since all they do is complain and worry about little things.”

Duncanson agrees.

“I lean more towards Democratic,” Duncanson said, “But if there is a candidate I feel will help us, I’ll vote for them because I just want who I think is better.”

And political parties and views aside, many agree on one thing: voting is important.

“My vote matters because we all have a different voice,” Zundel said. “In the end, the country is run by the rich, but the common folk pick. So I like to feel that I [help to] pick the person ruling. You should vote no matter what, your vote will always count, it’s up to you to decide where this country will go.”

Clinton River is becoming chemical-free To the casual observer, the Clinton River is just funny smelling water that trickles under the bridge as they drive down Rochester Road. In reality this humble stream led the first settlers into Rochester Hills so many years ago.

Since that day, the river has undergone more changes than Joan Rivers’ facesome more gruesome than others.

Pam and Andy Krupp are elementary school teachers in Rochester Community Schools. They are also local environmental activists who live a stone’s throw away from the banks of the Clinton.

“A river is the heart of the community,” Mrs. Krupp said. “At one time, all of the life here revolved around the river. All of us can trace back in the history of Rochester, and it all seems to go back to the river.”

The river served a valuable purpose for early settlers- in the days before Mustang GTs; the river was the way to go.

“The founders of Rochester first came up the Clinton,” Mrs. Krupp said.

“It was so forested, it was the best way to come inland. There were no trains, roads; just swamps and mosquitoes.”

Novels such as Mark Twain’s “Huckleberry Finn” have romanticized rivers. Rivers are what fueled early industrialism through water mills.

Without moving water to spin the turbines, early manufacturers had no way of getting energy to run the mills themselves.

Before mills the Clinton River Trail was already a route used by the local Native Americans to get from one place to the next. Early Native Americans would perform traditional ceremonies on the banks of the river—not far from RHS itself.

“Based on reports by early settlers, [Native Americans] would have a big monotonous drum that would go all through the night,” Mr. Krupp said.

“They would sing, and dance and throw dogs on a huge fire.”

In the 1960’s and 70’s, things started to go sour. Pollution from industry upstream contaminated the river.

“When you floated down the river, it was green and warm because of all the chemicals,” Mr. Krupp said. “Not

just light green- thick seaweed green.

It had a petroleum-like smell. It was nasty. My parents told me not to go in that river.”

Waste from factories in Pontiac, and it was even rumored sewage from the Silverdome’s toilets caused the river to overflow with chemicals- flowing straight into Lake St. Clair.

Soon, the community took action.

“The river was a casualty of unawareness until the 70’s when people started recognizing that they were causing a great harm,” Mrs. Krupp said. “That’s when people started taking a serious look at the river and cleaning it up.”

Serious measures were taken. The Clinton River Watershed Council led the way by organizing water-days when the community got together to clean up the river. Local activists and students worked to remove old tires, and concrete blocks- but a lot of damage had already been done.

“The river literally died,” Mrs. Krupp said. “For a generation or two, there wasn’t a river.”

Even today, students are apprehensive to swim and wade in the river.

The Clinton River. Photo source: Creative Commons

“I felt that when I got out of the river, I smelled nasty,” junior Ben August said. “There was a stench on my skin.”

Junior Zach Smith elaborates.

“I put my feet in the water, but the smell of it kept me from getting all the way in,” Smith said. “On top of that, I’ve heard that it was pretty dirty- so that made me not want to get in.”

Mr. Krupp disagrees.

“A lot of people think that the river is unclean,” Mr. Krupp said. “There has been a lot of talk. It’s folklore. The river is cleaner now than it has been in

a long time.”

The river today is much different than 30 years ago. People fish in the river- much like they did before pollution set in. A kayak business rents out kayaks to locals. People also swim regularly. However, there is still a lot of work to be done.

“Rivers are a living, vibrant part of the community,” Mr. Krupp said.

“In other parts of the country, rivers are involved in people’s lives. That’s the potential of the river. That’s the original potential of rivers that brought in the first settlers.”

Feature

3 Finding truth in a historic city Talon the

October 2010

The Renaissance Center, owned by General Motors (GM), is located in Detroit and is the tallest building in Michigan. Photo by Pablo Costa

What makes Detroit so unique?

• There are over 125 bars and restaurants within one square mile of downtown Detroit • Detroit has the second largest theater district in the country The Spirit of Detroit statue stands in downtown Detroit. The statue is a symbol of hope for people in the city. Behind the statue is the city’s motto: “Spearamus Meliora Resurget Cineribus,”which translates to, “We hope for better things. It will arise from the ashes.” Photo by Nate Barton

with over 13,000 theater seats in a two block radius.

• Downtown Detroit has 37% less crime than the national average.

• Martin Luther King Jr. gave his “I Have a Dream” speech for the very first time in Detroit.

• Detroit is the only city to win

3 major sports championships in one year.

An upward view of the Renaissance Center.

Photo by Julia Ta

A statue of championship boxer Joe Louis‘s fist stands in Detroit. Photo by Bob Jagen

Source: “Inside Detroit” pamphlet

To the average American, Detroit is a dark place. It’s a city that is portrayed as a once-great empire that succumbed to homelessness, poverty and crime.

While there is truth to this, there is also a different side of Detroit – one that many suburban teens have never encountered.

Ms. Jeannette Pierce, a lifelong Detroiter and co-founder of “Inside Detroit” touring company elaborates on the grass-roots movement that is under way to revive the city.

“Detroit has a pattern of reinventing itself every 100 years,” Ms. Pierce said. “I have no doubt in my mind that now is the time to be in Detroit, and hope doesn’t begin to describe what I feel for the future of this city.”

According to Ms. Pierce, there are various aspects of Detroit that make it unlike any other city in the world. It is distinctive, rugged, historic and it’s in our backyard.

“You can live your dream here,” Ms. Pierce said. “Anything is possible.

There is a low barrier to entry and a high level of community support.”

For all light, there is a shadow.

Similarly, there is a dark side to Detroit. Ms. Pierce acknowledges that, as with all large cities, Detroit is faced some with crime, poverty and poor schooling. Senior Kelsey Bammel elaborates. “[There is] lots of crime, violence, and homeless people,” Bammel said.

“I do not consider myself to be from Detroit.”

Bammel is one of many Americans for whom Detroit has become taboo in recent years. While other American cities have an equal or even greater amount of crime, it is not their manifest identity. While the negative aspects of Detroit have been magnified, it seems that hope has been overlooked. Junior Austin Kilpatrick clarifies.

“I think it is one of America’s great cities because of its history,” Kilpatrick said. “I do consider myself to be from Detroit, and there’s nothing wrong with being from Detroit.”

Detroit’s motto, “Speramus Meliora Resurget Cineribus,” which translates “We Hope for Better Things.

It will Arise from the Ashes” begs the question: What will be the next big idea that will define this region for years to come?

“Small business is Detroit’s future,” Ms. Pierce said. “It’s about not putting your eggs in one basket and letting people build their dreams.”

Despite whether it is a time of fire or a time of ashes, a city is defined by its people. And the future is defined by those same people who take action and create it. Nobody knows what the new era of Detroit will bring, but according to Pierce, people are looking up.

“I love this city and it loves me back,” Ms. Pierce said. “I honestly wouldn’t live anywhere else, and I am happy as a person can be, and it’s all because of the life I built that could [only] occur in Detroit.”

Programs seek to inspire change Over the years, programs such as Challenge Day, Michael Fowlin and Rachel’s Challenge continue to visit to inspire change. All similar in their goal, the programs use mildly different approaches to try to achieve this goal.

But as junior Hannah Tepoorten sits in the auditorium and watches the 2010 “Rachel’s Legacy” assembly, the last thing she felt was inspired. “ D u r i n g Rachel’s Challenge, I was thinking that we k n e w all these things

before,” Tepoorten said. “Honestly, it was just trying to make us cry. [Full acceptance] is not in human nature. It’s easier to stay the same, so people stay the same and don’t try new things.”

But these programs are brought to Rochester for a reason, and administration thinks they have enough of an impact to be called a success. “ R a c h e l ’ s Challenge was brought to RHS with the hope that Rachel’s story would have an impact on our student body,” Friends of Rachel club sponsor and counselor Mrs. Laura Zotos said. “That it may inspire a change in some negative attitudes that can be part of the high school culture.”

And freshman Yousif Kashat saw a noticeable change.

“I loved to watch the programs because they realize who we are,” freshman Yousif Kashat said.

“I kept thinking ‘we can make a great difference.’ And since then, I’ve seen less people eating alone at lunch.”

Besides lunch room activity, other positive changes the administration aimed for included a decrease in bullying, full acceptance among diverse groups and an overall kinder attitude.

“It was our hope that students would be challenged to participate more in school improvement projects and community help projects, that they may be inspired to intervene when they see bully behavior in the school, and that they would begin to recognize their own bully behavior and not take part in it anymore,” Mrs. Zotos said.

“Ultimately, we wanted to inspire and motivate kids to be more willing to reach out to others with kindness.”

Although there is an initial reaction, freshman Monica Williamson does not see that as enough.

“I think they achieve their goal because for that day, people do act kinder,” Williamson said. “But it could be better achieved by making it an all the time thing instead of just for that day. Rachel’s Challenge is referred to often now, but other than that, there hasn’t been much of an impact on RHS at all.”

Some students agree this lack of impact is natural in high school and

After Rachel’s Challenge last year, posters were placed around the school for students to sign if they accepted Rachel’s challenge. This year, the posters read “My Legacy Starts Today.” Students who were impacted by Rachel’s Legacy could sign the banner. Photos by Austin Bowerman

would be difficult to change.

“People resist change because they don’t want to be called weird,” Kashat said. “I think it defines RHS [students] as shy, un-open people.”

However, Kashat thinks that, although it may be difficult, it is still possible to make change happen.

“They want to get people to go outside of their safe zone,” Kashat said. “The goal can be reached, but only if people will try.”

And according to Mrs. Zotos, the best way for students to try is to join

Friends of Rachel.

“I think there is always evident change in the school climate in the first weeks after a presentation of this nature,” Mrs. Zotos said. “I do, however, think it is important for kids to put feelings into actions and a great way to do this would be to join the Friends of Rachel club and become a vehicle for change that lasts all year and reminds kids that did not have the opportunity to join the group of the things they learned and felt during the assemblies.”

Battling addictions to smokeless tobacco Dip. Suck. Spit. Tin after tin after tin. This is the routine some teens have adopted. Teens are purchasing smokeless tobacco, some even under age, and using it on a daily basis to meet an internal craving for a drug called nicotine. A drug that beckons them at all times of the day, even during school hours.

Those who are familiar with smokeless tobacco, also known as dip, chew, or snuff, know it is a moist, finely ground form of tobacco that includes the same chemicals as cigarettes.

According to legacyforhealth.org, daily snuff use amongst 10th graders is now up to 1.9 percent in 2009 from 1.4 percent in 2008 and 12th graders now 2.9 percent in 2009 up from 2.7 percent in 2008.

Varsity baseball coach Eric Magiera said that chewing tobacco can cause dental issues.

“Dip kills the tissue of your gums and leads to rotting teeth,” Coach Magiera said. “Those things are proven. As far

as overall health, it’s very This is what dangerous. I believe it’s makes dipping like smoking 10 cigarettes different from at once. That is awful for regular pastimes like your body.” reading or going on Another person who is Facebook; Ms. Scott no stranger to the effects said snuff is not as of smokeless tobacco is safe as some teens Great Expressions dental think.

However, assistant Ms. Janet Scott. some claim that their “Smokeless tobacco use is under control. can cause oral cancer,” Ms. “It’s enjoyable and Scott said. “It irritates and A student shows some smokeless tobacco in the hallway. Photo by Taylor Holmes I do it in moderation,” will eventually deteriorate Yello said. “I’ve gone your gums and can cause them to “I enjoy dipping because of the weeks without it so I could quit.” swell. It can also stain teeth.” flavor,” Yello said. “It’s fun to do when During his years in college, Coach The effects of snuff are well-known just hanging with my friends.”

Magiera met with a former pro baseball among dentists, and even users claim Although Yello may regard snuff player who developed cancer and lost to know some of the health risks. as a hobby, Ms. Scott said that it can his lower jaw as a result of past snuff “Chewing tobacco tears apart your be potentially dangerous. In fact, Ms. use. According to Coach Magiera, the gums,” RHS’s own dip user *Mellow Scott said that chewing tobacco is qualities that make snuff enjoyable Yello said. “It may also cause tooth actually more damaging to one’s health for Yello might be outweighed if he loss.” than smoking. were to meet someone who has been Despite knowing that the habit is “Chew is worse than smoking,” Ms. severely hurt by the drug. not safe, teens still seem to be drawn to Scott said. “The toxins are lying right “I don’t think that kids realize that the unhealthy act. There is something on your gums, where things are much it can do significant harm even if you about the moist brown substance that easier to absorb into your system. It’s only use it from time to time,” Coach is captivating youth and morphing like putting poison right into your Magiera said. normal teens into avid users. mouth.”

Though Yello claims to use the drug

in moderation and expressed the desire to quit, a small amount of use does not guarantee safety since Ms. Scott stated that using smokeless tobacco even once is risky.

“My advice to someone trying to quit is to find something else such as gum to replace the need to have something in your mouth or maybe Nicorette,” Ms. Scott said.

This professional advice was similar to that of Coach Magiera.

“My advice to someone who chews would be to quit early,” Coach Magiera said. “The longer you do it, the tougher it will be to quit. It will cause damage if you do it long enough, so the earlier you quit, the less damage it will do.”

Because of the potentially negative effects snuff can have, Ms. Scott said that quitting is the safest choice.

Additionally, statistics show it is best to quit because this teenage habit can leave a lasting damage. Yello said he realizes this risk and does not plan to use snuff for the rest of his life.

“As far as I look at it, it’s a high school thing.” Yello said. “I don’t plan on doing it throughout my life.”

4

Sports

Talon the

October 2010

Girls golf goal:

Three-peat state championship In the past few years, the varsity girls golf team has been known for their record of winning two state championships in a row and for their top players Amy and Christine Meier.

But even though the two Meier girls graduated, coach Jeff Haney said the team has still set the same goals for themselves and plans on achieving them.

With a new year and new players, Haney has a new strategy on how to play the best they possibly can. According to coach Haney, the team will face challenges, but the girls should be able to overcome them and succeed.

“Our strategy, if we are going to accomplish winning the state championship, would consist of us going out the first day of finals and scoring really good and rattling the other teams,” coach Haney said. “That’s our only shot at actually winning the state championships.”

Junior Amanda Graham said she embraced the new season with high hopes and excitement.

According to Graham, the team has worked hard to achieve their own personal goals and to learn coach Haney’s strategy of winning as much as possible.

“We have all been practicing a lot and our team is good at handling pressure situations,”

Graham said. “We also always try to play our best and give a 100 percent. Coach Haney always tells us that nothing really matters until the end.”

When it comes to competing, senior Taylor Clayton, who has been playing varsity for three years, said that nerves almost always come into play.

“When it comes to the finals I am just nervous about being able to have a good day,” Clayton said. “And I don’t want to let my bad shots or bad holes affect me.”

Just as Clayton is sometimes nervous, coach Haney is also concerned by certain things throughout the season.

“Right now, I am most nervous about regionals,” coach Haney said. “We have already won 10 state regionals and I would like to keep up with that record. Overall, I would say I am most anxious to get through regionals.”

In the midst of nerves, hard work and achieving high standards and goals, coach Haney said the golf team still finds time to support each other.

“I just feel lucky because I get to work with an awesome group of girls who work hard and still can have fun,” coach Haney said. “I think it’s really cool to be able to coach and teach the girls as athletes and competitors. It’s really an honor to be their coach.”

The members of the 2010 Girls Varisty golf team. Back row (left to right): junior Amanda Graham and seniors Jylian Monahan and Rosalie Shyu. Middle row (left to right): seniors Michaela Kastura and Taylor Clayton and sophomore Jazmin Haq. Front row (left to right): sophomores Haley Bradley, Abby Saber and Natalie Graham. Photo Courtsey of Amanda Graham

Varsity boys soccer gain experience The boys varsity soccer team is nearly done with their season and with a record of 6-6-6 but they still are striving to meet their goals and top last year’s season.

“Dedication, heart, it’s got to be an all out effort,” coach Chris Purgatory said. “It’s so much fun being around all the guys. They’re a great group of boys and you know we have a lot of fun. Every day is a new adventure.”

Coach Purgatory, who graduated from RHS himself, has been coaching the varsity team for three years. Still, Purgatory said that he is learning something new every season.

The team seems to enjoy working with coach Purgatory just as much as he enjoys working with them.

The whole process of coaching a team is a learning experience and coaches have to improve just like the players.

“Our defense has gotten better,” junior captain Michael Bowyer said.

“They have good communication and know where to be for each other.”

This tough season has made the team work their hardest and has also brought them success.

“We’re pretty strong this year,” junior and center midfielder Blake Giles said. “We’ve been great at focusing and working hard on the field, and we get opportunities to score goals and win.”

Senior Juan Manzanares said he feels that practicing hard every day is paying off on the field.

“I give 100% of my effort towards the team,” Manzanares said. “We have had our ups and downs but

The varsity boys’ soccer players chase the ball just kicked into play. Photo by Justin Murphy

overall it’s a lot of fun.”

Making it to the district finals is the team’s goal this year, according to Giles.

“To make it to the district final would mean we tried our hardest,”

Giles said. “And we did a good job as a team.”

Coach Purgatory said he agrees.

“We always want to strive to win our division,” coach Purgatory said.

“That’s our number one goal.”

One of the games that made the coaches the most proud of their team was the match against Stony Creek, which ended in a 1-1 tie. “[That game] was definitely one of our high points where we battled back the entire game,” coach Purgatory said. “We started off slow, ran off five wins in a row and just came off a three game losing streak, so we’ve had our highs and lows.”

According to Bowyer, the team’s mindset seems to be positive, especially with playoffs just starting.

With more and more fans attending their games, Bowyer said the team has more reasons to win and hopefully suceed in the playoffs.

“Our offense works hard,” Bowyer said. “They’ve been able to keep the ball and pass better. We have great teamwork and guard well. We get along on and off the field.”

One win from playoffs, varsity football is for real

The fans jump, scream and hope the final drive will finish with a Rochester High touchdown and secure the victory against Clarkston, the 10th ranked team in the state. The offense clicks, making catch after catch. They march down the field, driving past the defense.

The 30 yard line. The 40. The 50. Clarkston’s 40.

The Wolves’ 30 …

Then, the unthinkable happens: an interception. Clarkston gets the ball back with a little over a minute left in the game. Take a knee. It’s over. Clarkston 17, RHS 14.

The game was like a seesaw. RHS would score, and then Clarkston would strike back.

And from the first play of the game, despite playing a top team, the Falcons displayed much improvement.

Clarkston returned the kick from RHS all the way to the eight yard line. But right then the seesaw started to go back and forth. The Falcons played great defense, anchored by senior Grant Chenoweth, and held one of the states best offenses to only a field goal. Last year, Clarkston would have scored on their first try, so only letting up a field goal was a good start for the consistently good defense.

But, in the end, Rochester lost. It hurt.

It stung. It stopped our three game winning streak. And at times, it seemed as if our defense was dead.

Yes, right at the end, a pass thrown by senior quarterback Nick Bradley stopped the potentially game winning drive that cost RHS the upset of the year and a certain winning season, their first since 1999. But this game was a moral victory for the Falcons. They showed they are for real.

When I look past the clear-cut negatives of this game, I can find many positives that show that this team is the real deal. The best place to start is with Bradley, the leader of the team.

Throughout this game, and over the course of the entire season, he has been a true leader.

Bradley has made pass after pass. Miracle play after miracle play, including a hook and ladder, where Bradley threw the ball to a receiver who

then threw it to a teammate who ran all the way to the end zone. Also, Bradley threw a seed to fellow senior Billy Klotz who, according to Bradley, made “a h--- of a catch” securing the win against Pontiac. Facing Clarkston was no different.

Another thing to be optimistic about is junior runningback Cody Devoe. Like the teams’ performance over the last five weeks, he’s been a standout. Constantly he has ate up yards, running for five here and seven there.

Though it’s easy to just say Bradley is the offense, Devoe is right up there with him.

The defense was also stunning, considering it has had two shutouts this season, one against L’anse Creuse and the second against West Bloomfield. Both performances made statements. L’anse Creuse opened the season with a positive and West Bloomfield gave us our first home coming win since 1999. They hit so hard it could be heard in the stands. They have played with a fire all year that, excluding the loss to Lake Orion, has made them one of the top defenses around.

Though a loss to Clarkston, or any team for that matter, hurts, it was only by three points—three measly points. Last year, Clarkston would have walked all over RHS. The game would have been over before it started.

But this year is different.

This year, there is a different vibe around RHS. More people are fired up. More people are attending games. More people care. And the team isn’t disappointing.

So yeah, a loss is painful, but when I look past the dark clouds and minor mishaps, there’s a light at the end of the tunnel. The season isn’t over. If we win against winlesss Royal Oak tonight, it’s only just begun.

The Varsity football team celebrates a 17-13 win over Pontiac. Photo by Aaron Kuhn

Talon the

October 2010

Opinion

Staff Editorial: Effects of Rachel’s Challenge During the beginning of this school year, a guest speaker came and told the students about Rachel’s story and legacy, leaving the students with the task of respecting and basically being nice to other people. The first few days after the presentation everyone was being nice to each other, but then a noticeable drop in respect occurred, and now the students are back to their old ways. Rachel’s Challenge was surely a powerful presentation, though it has not left a lasting impact on students.

Because of the failure to leave an impact, Rachel’s Challenge is unnecessary to our school. If it doesn’t leave a lasting impact on the students, then it is just a waste of time. The students forget about it after a few days and then continue on with their previous ways.

Besides, students should not have to be told to be nice, it should be automatic. If they are not already nice, one little speech is not going to change their ways.

Also, because the students are being told to be nice, it does not have nearly as much of a meaning as if someone were to take the initiative to be nice to someone on their own. Many of the students just take it as a joke anyway, and walk down the hall sarcastically saying hi and smiling to everyone they

pass. Some students may even take this as an insult, and instead of helping the situation, things have just been made worse. For example, a person may think that someone that says hi to them after the presentation thinks that they are depressed-acting or looking.

Many people think that Rachel’s Challenge is a success because so many kids sign the poster that says, “I accept Rachel’s Challenge,” but many of them just sign it as a novelty, just to say they signed it. Last year, a ton of people signed the Rachel’s Challenge poster. From the number of signatures, one could be sure that the school year was going to be a good one filled with people going out of their way to help others. But as the year went on, at a shockingly fast rate this trend went down, and was replaced with the old behavior.

If we were to have a few follow ups to Rachel’s C h a l l e n g e throughout the school year, then this problem could be easily solved. Students need that reminder to help them stay on track.

Imagine a whole school year where students acted like they did the week after the presentation. It seems like a fantasy now, but having a few follow ups on Rachel’s Challenge could make it happen.

“

Rachel’s Challenge is not effective; it only tells kids what they already know what to do.

Max Kleiner, senior

”

“

Rachel’s Challenge was touching, and it made me re-think about how bullying should be stopped.

Jenna Rocco, senior

It was effective last year, but this year was repetitive and just an overview of last year.

Aaron Kuhn, junior

”

“

I feel like it is effective for some people who are seeing it for the first time, but the effects are not long-lasting.

Taylor Holmes,

senior

” ” College applications create stress Throughout the summer before 12th grade, the phrase I most commonly heard from adults is: “Oh you’ll love senior year; it’s the best time of your life,” paired with “This will be the most fun of high school.” But the problem I’m finding in my last year at RHS is that it is not, in fact, the best time of my life. This has mainly been due to the hell of college applications.

I’m not denying that being a senior is fun. Homecoming week was fantastic, football games were even better and I still love not being an underclassman, but all of this amazing-ness has been laced with the overwhelming task of figuring out the future.

Making that first step was simple. I remember thinking of how easy things were going to be for me. I wanted to apply to college A, B, C, D, E & F and they all required essentially the same information. For a while, I was sure that I could get through my applications with a well-written essay and some copy paste action. I was completely wrong. Four essays took over two months due to horrible writer’s block, countless rewrites and the most meticulous editing ever. Forms, which

A student stresses out over filling out college applications. Photo by Hannah K

I had previously dubbed easy, hid obscure questions that required close to a million counseling appointments.

The list of things I needed just kept growing and growing; things never really got crossed off and more tasks kept being added. Get the counselor forms. Write College B essays. Ask Mr. Green about financial aid. Need your transcript forms with your counselor forms. Sign a release before you can do any of that. Write College E essay.

Fill out Common Application forms for

Colleges B, D and E. Talk to Mr. Green about minor detail #1 and #2. Email teachers for letters of recommendation.

College C needs two recommendation letters. College F needs three. Fill out Common App supplements. Fill out individual applications for Colleges A, C and F. Contact Oakland for your dual enrollment transcript. Consult Mr. Green for tedious question #18 for application. Email Mr. Green a thousand times to figure out exactly what to do for unclear app tasks. (I

think by the end of this year Mr. Green will be glad to be rid of me.) Amidst all this was dealing with schoolwork and actual work and having somewhat of a social life. Basically, things were getting hectic.

Now I’m happy to say that I’m looking back on my college application nightmare. Yes, it stunk. Yes, finishing all six was like pulling teeth. But the relief of having everything squared away is indescribable. Unfortunately, now all that’s left is the waiting.

cliché, quite rewarding.

My humble occupation, dishwasher, may sound tame; it may inspire thoughts of fragrant soaps and the relaxing quality of warm water. My job is anything but tame.

The soap may or may not be fragrant, for I will never be able to pick out its scent over the toe-curling odor of grease combined with the perplexing perfume of Coke, diluted coffee, cheese and water-logged chili.

With fancy faucet hose in hand, I generously blast away the offending substances. I stack the plates into dishwasher racks and slide them into the gurgling beast, with hands throbbing and glowing like red-hot pokers from being doused in blistering hot water.

Now you might be thinking to yourself, “Boy, this job sounds worse than … anything. There is nothing

worse than this job.” And you’re right.

I have never encountered something as utterly disagreeable as being employed as a dishwasher. This is where the life lessons come into play, grab a pencil and some paper, and perhaps a snorkel, because I’m about to get deep.

At some point, between taking out the food slop that reeks of disappointment and mopping up my dignity, I realize that what I’m doing is something that I never want to do again.

Metaphors aside, I mean to say by experiencing the worst job on the planet, I now fully understand the purpose of school, the purpose of teachers, of learning, of studying, of hours of homework and minutes of sleep.

School doesn’t exist because the teachers need to feel fulfilled, school exists so kids like us don’t get stuck carting food scraps to the back of a

dingy kitchen to wash down a sink.

Besides realizing the importance of seizing opportunities and satisfying my full potential, I also finally understand the value of a dollar, and no, it’s not 100 pennies, 10 dimes or even 20 nickels. It’s 15 hours of menial labor every weekend for three weeks.

It’s five hours of scalding hot water and steam. It’s countless hours spent grading papers, dealing with rowdy teenagers and snobby brats. Working for a dollar, no matter how it’s done, will provide anyone with new perspective.

“Fadi! Where’s table twenty four’s order? I’m losing tips here!”

As four plates miraculously find themselves generously coated in ranch dressing, baked-on cheese and grease, I arm myself with a fresh brillo pad.

I’m fighting not only for sanitation, but for my future.

Awful job inspires a brighter future

“Hey Fadi! I need a chili, three chicken pitas and a saganaki!”

The clattering of plates, the shrill demands of the waitresses and the fatty sizzle of the grill as Fadi douses its surface with liquid lard jostle me from a restful night’s sleep. I slap the alarm clock. I wake up from my nightmare.

And although just thinking about the food slop, the grime and grit induces feelings of intense nausea, sorrow and self-loathing, I have found that working in a job that is more- than- horrible is actually, pardon my overwhelming

The Talon Editor in Chief Max Kleiner Feature Editor Emily Hayward Lifestyles Editor Melanie Sweet

“

5

Entertainment Editor Katie Ziraldo Opinion Editor Amy Mackens Sports Editor Katie Krako Website Editor Justin Murphy Business Manager Madison Reitzel Staff Writers Nate Barton Carolyn Berwick Austin Bowerman Taylor Holmes Aaron Kuhn Steven McConnell Caitlyn McGoldrick Brian Palmer Jenna Rocco Ben Simko Adviser Mrs. Julia Satterthwaite

Mission Statement The Talon presents an open forum for student expression to be used by the Rochester High School community to promote and express thought and action.

The stories, opinions, and bylined content in The Talon do not necessarily represent and should not be interpreted as the views of the Rochester Community School Board of Education or any of its staff, faculty, or employees.

Unless otherwise noted, all stories and opinions expressed here are the views of The Talon staff which is comprised of students in the Journalism II class of Rochester High School.

The Talon believes it is its duty and right to inform, educate, influence and entertain its readers and will do this by exercising the First Amendment Rights as defined in the Constitution of the United States of America.

The Talon is devoted to professional journalism and fairness in all reporting. The Talon will adhere to a standard of responsible journalism and will refrain from publishing material which is legally libelous, obscene or could disrupt the operation of the school.

Letters The Talon accepts letters to the editor from all concerned parties. The Talon reserves the right to screen and/or edit any and all letters for inappropriate content and length. All letters must be signed. Requests to remain anonymous will be considered by the editorial board.

Mailing address: The Talon 180 S. Livernois Rd. Rochester Hills, MI 48307 E-mail: jsatterthwaite@rochester.k12. mi.us

Lifestyles

6

Talon the

October 2010

Take that, Bambi!

New crossbow laws affect young hunters It’s the 2010 whitetail bow season and a nice 8-point buck is finally in range. The safety is off, the cross hairs of the scope are lined up, and all that is left to do is pull the trigger. That’s right, the trigger. During bow season.

Starting this year, the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has legalized crossbow hunting to anyone 10-yearsold and up throughout the state of Michigan. A crossbow is a weapon that remains cocked throughout the duration of the hunt. It operates and looks similar to a

rifle; to shoot one pulls a trigger and

many come with a scope. This weapon may open up new opportunities to hunters who were not able or not interested in hunting with a traditional bow in previous seasons.

The DNR passed the new laws in hopes of bringing more people into the sport.

“I think that it will provide more opportunities for hunters who didn’t have a chance to hunt otherwise due to disabilities or age,” Lieutenant Sherry Chandler of the DNR said.

This fall, the number of bow hunters has gone up by about 20,000 hunters.

A Hunter Max 200 crossbow with a bipod is commonly used for hunting Whitetail deer. The new change in state regulations allows anyone 10 and up to hunt using a crossbow. A crossbow is like a regular bow and arrow, however rather than pulling back and letting go of the string, it is cocked at the beginning of the hunt and to release the string one pulls a trigger. Photo by Mika Jarvinen

Deer are a common prey of hunters, and the new regulations may increase the number of deer successfully hunted each season. Photo source: Creative Commons Some students feel that by using a crossbow, deer like the one above would be more easily hunted. However, not all are sure this is a good thing. Photo by Judd McCullum

“This year we went up from about 285,000 bow hunters [which now includes crossbow hunters 10-yearsold and up] to about 305,000,” Mr. Brent Rudolph of the Wildlife Division of the DNR said.

Such a drastic change in weaponry is bound to raise some controversy.

“I am indifferent except for the age. I think that 10-years-old is just too young,” junior Noah Corrion said. “Little kids are not responsible enough to be killing such a big animal.”

Still, there are many who are in favor of the new rules.

“It’s pretty cool, because I always wanted to use a crossbow, but I never could,” junior James Carpenter said.

“If people are not big enough for a bow they can still be bow hunting with a crossbow.”

Junior Scott Martin agrees.

“I think that as long as there is a responsible supervisor around, it should be legal,” Martin said. “I think it will add a fun new aspect to hunting.”

Even though Martin is in favor of crossbow hunting, he said he does not plan on using one for hunting this year.

“I already hunt every chance I get with a bow,” Martin said. “It is more of a challenge.”

Corrion and Carpenter both agree.

Corrion explained that even though he believes the crossbow would be to his advantage, it wouldn’t give him as much of a thrill.

“I think I would be able to hit more deer with a crossbow,” Corrion said.

“But I feel it would take away the challenge of bow hunting.”

Halloween: not just about candy Every Halloween, teens must make certain decisions as to whether they are going to go trickor-treating, hang out with friends, or do nothing at all - but these choices may be a result of certain pressures and influences

Last Halloween, junior Alice LaLone went camping and walked down a scenic trail with her family.

Although she isn’t traveling or going anywhere particularly special this year, LaLone said she has something even better planned: trick-or-treating with her younger cousins.

“I had a great time last year, but this year is going to be even more fun,” LaLone said. “My little cousins are so cute, and I’m really excited to take them trick-or-treating. It’s going to be the best Halloween ever.”

LaLone said she is hoping to use Halloween to be a good influence on her 3-year-old cousin Bridget. In order to do so, she is going to dress up as a fairy princess alongside her younger cousin.

“Bridget really looks up to me,” LaLone said. “I want to set a good example for her. I’m hoping to show her that every girl is a princess and that you don’t need to show a lot of skin to be beautiful.”

While LaLone is going trick-ortreating for her younger cousins, other teenagers do so for different reasons.

But according to Mrs. Cheryl Jacobs, the parent of two RHS students, this is not always a good thing.

“For the most part, teens probably shouldn’t be trick-or-treating,” Mrs. Jacobs said. “It’s okay if they’re dressed up in a costume, but otherwise I don’t think it’s a very good idea. But the most important thing for teens to remember is to be considerate and courteous if they do decide to go trickor-treating.”

“Eventually

there’s a time when it is awkwardly inappropriate to walk around with a bunch of little kids and beg for candy, but I’m not saying that time is now.

(From left) Freshmen Lyndsay Hunsanger, Natalie Krauss, Saloni Sharma , Maggie Berwick, Emily Giedzinski and Emily Jacobs pose for a photo before going trick-or- treating when they were in seventh grade. Photo Courtesy of Cheryl Jacobs

Helen Huetteman, junior

”

When it comes to limiting trick-ortreating, sophomore John Doroshewitz said he agrees with Mrs. Jacobs to a certain extent.

“I don’t think trick-or-treating is wrong before you’re done with high school,” Doroshewitz said. “But once you’re done with high school, it’s a bit ridiculous. If you’re in college and still going trick-or-treating, you need to give it up.”

Although students like Doroshewitz said people know they should stop trick-or-treating once they have reached a certain age, some students use other indicators.

“Sometimes, you just have to let the younger kids enjoy it and not take their candy,” junior Ally Kane said. “But most of all, you know you’re too old when you go trick-or-treating and you are bigger than the owner of the house you’re at.”

Senior Alaina Lucio also said it is possible to be too old to trick-or-treat

Back row: Freshmen Maggie Berwick, Natalie Krauss, Emily Giedzinski, Chelsea Redden, Angela Salario and Sanna Goode. Front row: Freshmen Hannah Broeker, Emily Jacobs and Lyndsay Hunsanger when they were in eighth grade. Photo Courtesy of Cheryl Jacobs

Freshman Emily Jacobs still enjoys trick-ortreating on Halloween every year. Photo Courtesy of Cheryl Jacobs

and that she wants to take advantage of what might be her last chance to collect candy.

“I’m planning on going trick-ortreating with some friends this year,” Lucio said. “I feel like it’s my last year.

After this, it’s like I have to grow up and be the one passing out the candy, not taking it.”

Like Lucio, junior Helen Huetteman said she wants to trick-or-treat before it’s too late.

“Eventually there is a time when it is awkwardly inappropriate to walk

made so many good memories over the years.”

Regardless of whether teens choose to collect candy or simply be with their friends, LaLone said the key is to have fun.

“Halloween is all about having a good time,” LaLone said. “Sometimes it’s more fun to go trick-or-treating, but sometimes it’s better to pass out candy or decorate your house in a scary way.

Just find something that makes you happy and do it. That’s what holidays are for.”

around with a bunch of little kids and beg for candy,” Huetteman said. “But I’m not saying that time is now. I’m definitely going trick-or-treating this year.”

Because of the uncertainty around teen trick-or-treating, students like junior Jasmine Halim choose to find something else to do.

“I’m going to a Halloween party at my friend’s house,” Halim said. “I’d rather be with my friends then doing anything else because we always have such an awesome time together. We’ve

Lifestyles

Talon the

October 2010

Living life without a God

On Sundays, junior Zach Smith’s Christian friends go to church.

However, Smith goes about his normal routine. He sleeps in, does homework and spends time with friends. The only thing missing from his day is religion.

“As I got older, I started doing some thinking on my own,” Smith said. “I questioned other religions and beliefs, and didn’t find them logical. Growing up I had never gone to church or anything of that sort, which I think pushed me towards Atheism even further.”

Junior Nick Rinehart agrees with Smith’s reasoning to becoming Atheist.

“Religion has never really made any sense to me,” Rinehart said. “It isn’t compatible with science, which is based on research and reasoning.

Unless there’s ever concrete proof that God exists, I cannot believe in Him.” According to World Religions teacher Mrs. Sarah Miesch, questioning a religion is important, especially when one considers becoming that religion.

“Students need to examine each religion for themselves,” Mrs. Miesch said. “Don’t rule out a religion just because of people you’ve met who[practice] that religion.”

Making assumptions based on one or two people in a religion can

This is a common symbol of Atheism. Photo source: Creative Commons

lead to negative consequences. Unfortunately, it is something that Rinehart and Smith must deal with in their day-to-day lives.

“People just don’t trust Atheists,” Rinehart said. “I’m just assumed to be a devil-worshiping Communist.”

Smith agrees, to a certain extent.

“I think that many people [who] are even somewhat religious view Atheism

very negatively,” Smith said. “We don’t believe what they do, and they don’t like that.

I’m sure there are plenty of people who don’t think that, but I know there’s quite a few who do.”

However, not all religious students feel negatively about Atheism. Junior Maria Lepore, a Catholic, says she has no problem with other religions.

“I feel that all people can have their

own opinion on religion,” Lepore said.

“It doesn’t mean they’re good or bad, only that they have their own beliefs.”

Regardless of this, Rinehart still believes he faces discrimination.

“People believe that Atheists aren’t moral people,” Rinehart said. “We can be just as moral as Christians, Muslims, Jews [and other religions]. We just don’t have scripture to tell us what is right and what is wrong. We use our judgment to determine what is moral.”

Meanwhile, Rinehart has no problem with people practicing religion, as long as it’s done peacefully.

“I don’t oppose religion, I just wish theists could be more rational,” Rinehart said. “It’s difficult seeing others hate and kill each other over religion when they have more in common than they think.”

Though religions may have common archetypes, Atheists seem to stand out from that mold.

“Often, religious people look to God as a creator, an explanation to the unexplainable,” Mrs. Miesch said. “[Whereas Atheism] is a lack of belief in anything.”

In the end, the question of religion has quite a simple answer for Smith.

“In my opinion, religion leads to disaster,” Smith said. “Nothing more, nothing less.”

7

Describe your religion in one sentence My religion isn’t really a religion, Atheists don’t believe in a higher power.

What is the most misunderstood thing about Atheism?

People believe that Atheists aren’t moral people. We just don’t have scripture to tell us what is right and what is wrong.

We use our judgment to determine what is moral.

Why did you become Atheist?

Religion has never made much sense to me. It isn’t compatible with science, which is based on research and reasoning. Unless there’s ever concrete proof that God exists, I cannot believe in Him. Is it ever difficult to be Atheist?

In some ways. It’s difficult seeing others hate and kill each other and kill over religion when they have more in common than they think. I don’t oppose religion, I just wish theists could be more rational.

What is one thing people don’t know about Atheism?

Most Atheists aren’t out to get you.

Most Atheists want everyone to be treated the same.

Changing seasons bring new fashions Fashion design teacher Mrs. Alice Anglin often dresses conservatively.

However, outside of work she changes into a more artsy and free styles. Mrs. Anglin is an expert on fashion trends.

“Military styles [are popular],” Mrs. Anglin said. “Mixing summer spring pieces with fall and winter items, and tall boots.”

Mrs. Anglin thinks style should be unique and not copied. In her opinion, it is important to not be overly-trendy as well.

“My favorite outfit is a boho classic mix,” Mrs. Anglin said. “Polished, but still fun and unique.”

Freshman Emily Sumner likes to keep her style simple.

“Skinny jeans are in style,” Sumner said. “My favorite outfit is a cardigan with skinny jeans and a white tank top.”

Senior Ryan Burke agrees, but doesn’t think skinny jeans are just for girls. In his opinion, they are picking up popularity in men’s fashion too.

Graphic by Jenna Rocco

“I like to wear layers on top,” Burke said. “A cardigan and tee with skinny jeans and earrings.”

This season the leaves are changing as well as the fashionable color schemes.

“It seems that shades of blues are very popular,” Mrs. Anglin said. “As well as neutral tones, military colors and metal hardware.”

However, Sumner thinks a brighter look is more in style.

“Tie-dye seems to be popular,” Sumner said. “I love the hippie look.”

Senior Jesse Pincura, who likes to keep his style comfy, agrees.

“Trippy designs are in,” Pincura said. “I like to wear graphic tees and just jeans.”

Junior Aly Stanjones wants to warn everyone about a major fashion violation. “[Don’t wear] Shorts with leggings,” Stanjones said. “I feel like it’s mixing summer with fall and winter. It’s just not flattering.”

Pincura warns the guys of another fashion infraction.

“Socks with sandals look nerdy,” Pincura said. “You can’t go wrong

Graphic by Jenna Rocco

with a fresh pair of Nikes.”

Many people are putting away their flip flops this season. It is getting colder and there are some new shoe trends.

“Tall flat boots and wedge booties are in,” Mrs. Anglin said. “[Also] opened toed shoes with tights.”

Burke has his own flair when it comes to the shoes he wears.

“I like slip-ons that are Vans brand,” Burke said. “And high top converse.”

Stanjones thinks it is important to accessorize, but not over-accessorize.

“I like a simple necklace, but nothing gaudy,” Stanjones said. “Or a few rings to make it look like I put in effort.”

Burke also likes to wear accessories.

“I always wear earrings,” Burke said. “And my transformers belt.”

According to Mrs. Anglin, it is very important to have a unique style.

“Style should be personalized,” Mrs. Anglin said. “Anything someone likes to wear can be in style.”

8

Entertainment

Zach Galifianakis (left) and Keir Gilchrist (right) star in writer/directors Annah Boden and Ryan Fleck’s “It’s Kind of a Funny Story,” a Focus Features release. Photo by K.C. Bailey, gomoxie.com

Based on Ned Vizzini’s 2006 novel, “It’s Kind of a Funny Story” is an originally inventive story circling the life and mind of an unbelievably relatable 16-year-old boy named Craig Gilner. The film starts off with the line, “It starts on a bridge.” Almost immediately, audiences are hit with the realization that Craig is not just a young teen, but rather a young teen faced with clinical depression of the highest of sorts. Worried about his fantasies of death, Craig rushes to the hospital at 5 a.m. on a Sunday morning.

After close examination, he begs the doctor to help him, not realizing that he is accidently checking himself into the adult psychiatric ward, nick-named “3 North,” for a minimum five days of closer examination.

But Craig is not faced with earthshattering problems.

His day-today life, to any outsider, may seem perfectly normal. And t h a t ’s

just what makes the plot line so unbelievably bold and empowering.

Craig faces problems any teenager can relate to: what college am I going to go

Talon the

October 2010

Keir Gilchrist (left), Zach Galifianakis (center) and Emma Roberts (right) star in writer/directors Anna Boden and Ryan Fleck’s “It’s Kind of a Funny Story,” a Focus Features release. Photo by K.C. Bailey, gomoxie.com

to? Will I get into the college I dream to go to?

Will I reach my goals? Will I succeed, or will I fail? The complete honesty the movie and Craig portray has the ability to make any

teenager feel like the pressures of growing up that Craig faces were taken right out of their diary and placed directly onto a screenplay.

Craig’s 3 North mentor Bobby (Zach Galifianakis of “The Hangover”) is quick to welcome Craig into the community that has gathered in the

awkwardly homey hospital. But the more captivating relationship is that of Craig and Noelle, a 16-year-old girl who had been admitted into the hospital for upwards of twenty-one days due to their fear that she may cut herself again. The two immediately relate and, as the movie progresses, grow closer.

Noelle is the one who brings Craig into art therapy, where he re-discovers his knack for drawing. He pulls from his memory of being five and not being able to accurately trace Manhattan. At the time, his mother (Lauren Graham of “Gilmore Girls”) h a d told him to simply draw cities from his imagination, to make up his own “brain maps.” Craig begins to let his imagination take control of his paint brush and creates masterpiece after masterpiece of landscapes and over-head views of his own imaginary world. It is from his art and his friends at 3 North that Craig finds the power to re-invent himself and become a sort of

free-spirit.

The film’s motto became, “He not busy being born is busy dying,” taken from Bob Dylan’s “It’s Alright, Ma (I’m Only Bleeding),” perfectly described Craig, Noelle and Bobby’s outlook as they exit 3 North at the end of the movie. This motto is one that can hit home with teenagers all over the world, inspiring hope that life has just begun and each day should be lived to the absolute fullest.

“It’s Kind of a Funny Story” presented a new abstract angle to the state-of-the-art ‘be happy and be yourself’ message. Its unpredictable and yet engaging tendencies told the story of a young teenager trying to find himself and what he learns about the friendship, love and growing up along the way. It takes a sad group and manages to pull them together into a unique community of understanding, and evidently, that’s what Craig had lacked for his entire life and what he really needed the most.

Erebus attracts wide crowd Southeast Michigan is known as the haunted house capital of the world, and Erebus may be the pinnacle. Using 30,000 square feet, it is the largest walkthrough haunted attraction in the world. Erebus also has some interesting background behind its name. The haunt is owned by brothers Ed and James Terebus.

“Erebus is the darkness beneath the earth which the dead must pass through to get to the other world,” Mr. Ed Terebus said. “We work on it year round. Me, my brother and at least four other people work full time throughout the off season.”

Erebus is always changing. Each year, some things are a little different.

“It’s like a maze,” sophomore Austin Powell said. “Things pop out, and there are people inside who scare you too.

They change it every year. A lot of the stuff is the same, but it’s moved around so you don’t know where to expect it.”

Erebus, aside from being the largest haunted house, is also very unique.

Although some things change, the theme is always the same. Everyone who enters Erebus is sent on a twisted

Erebus is a 30,000 square foot haunted experience. PhotoIllustration by Brian Palmer

adventure through time when a mad scientist’s experiment goes wrong.

“We’re different because we’re unique,” Mr. Terebus said. “We make 90 percent of our own stuff, whereas other haunted houses don’t. My favorite part is ‘Buried alive!’ We worked on it for six years.”

Erebus tries to be different than

other haunted houses in many ways.

Their individuality makes Erebus an experience to remember.

“Erebus is a little more physical than other haunted houses,” Mr. Terebus said. “We have things that will grab you, bite you and land on top of you.

Some things are just cool to look at, some things will startle you.”

Erebus has employees aged 18-62 and over 75 actors on the inside. The massive four-story maze takes about 40 minutes to get through. It can easily be overwhelming for people going through for the first time. Powell has some advice for newcomers.

“Make sure you get there early,” Powel said. “The line can get really

long. And go with a group of people who you’re comfortable with.”

However, there are more ways to deal with fear than just having friends around.

“If you’re afraid, grab the guy in front of you, bury your head in his back and keep going.” Mr. Terebus said.

“Some people find certain parts scarier than others though. Some people don’t like invasion of personal space. Some people are afraid of heights. Some people are claustrophobic. The scariest part really depends on the individual.

Bring somebody brave with you and prepare to have a good time.”

However, not everyone get scared as easily. Sophomore Rachel Parker has been Erebus more than once and she didn’t find it to be very scary.

“At first, I thought it would be really scary, but it wasn’t really,” Parker said.

“All of the scenery looked fake. I think they should have had a more eerie feel to it. If you’re afraid to go, don’t be. It’s not as scary as it sounds, and you get to have a good time with your friends.

One of my favorite parts was waiting in line, talking to the people around us.”

Erebus owners try their best every year to make sure their haunted house is remembered as one of the best.

Deerhunter ‘Halycon Digest’ album review Bradford Cox is one of the most consistent and talented artists working in music today. The spindly, Marfan-syndrome-afflicted singer of Deerhunter, who has also worked on a solo project called Atlas Sound, has released a slew of fantastic albums to widespread acclaim in the past nine years. “Halycon Digest” does not break the chain. As is the case with every Deerhunter album, “Halycon Digest” does not sound exactly like any of its predecessors, with a largely acoustic, somewhat folk-influenced sound, featuring undistorted electric guitars,

steady, competent drumwork, and the occasional harmonica in sharp contrast to the reverb-filled “Microcastle” or the more electronic, hypnotic “Cryptograms.”

Instrumentation is never overdone or irritating and everything flows together perfectly.

As is the case on all of Cox’s releases, his lyrics are done streamof-consciousness, meaning that no lyrics are written down before they are recorded, which only adds to the impressiveness of Cox’s performances.

Imagine all the awful lyricists in the world, and then imagine what would go on without a written preparation.

It could result in absolute catastrophe, but Cox makes it work, as he always has.

The songs each have a distinct sound without being inconsistent or lacking focus, and the track positioning allows the album to have a rise and fall, like one would see in a well-made mixtape.

Although “Helicopter” seems to be generating quite a bit of hype, the true choice track on the album is “Don’t Cry.” The vocal production gives Cox’s voice a distinct whispery quality, and the simplicity of the lyrics and guitar just blend together so well. “Halcyon Digest” is a very strong candidate for the best album of 2010.

Bradford Cox of Deerhunter at Primavera Sound 2009. Photo by Quique Lopez

WELCOME TO THE

WORLD OF

WONKA In this issue:

Spirit Week wrap-up 2 & 3 Homecoming Court page 4 Q&A with the Queen page 4

Senior Alex Reid gets in place to begin the senior lipsync during the pep rally on October 8. Despite technical setbacks, the senior class still went on to win the competition. Photo

by Amy Mackens

The Hatchling October 2009

OCTOBER 22, 2010 VOLUME 2 ISSUE 2 ROCHESTER HIGH

The Hatchling October 2010

3

2

TheOctober Hatchling 2010

Highlights of Homecoming: ‘Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory’ takes over

SPIRIT DAYS

Sophomore Nicole Nahed participates in the lipsync.

Photo by Amy Mackens

Students dressed in their craziest getups for Wacky Tacky Day, from mismatching colors to outrageous hair and everything in between.

Wacky Tacky

LIPSYNC

SENIORS The Falcon Marching Band cheers during the Pep Assembly.

Photo by Katie Krako

FRESHMAN Seniors Jessica Glaser, Taylor Devilling and Megan Dombrowski dance during senior lipsync at the pep assembly after many failed attempts due to techinical difficulties. Photo by Amy Mackens

SOPHOMORES

Seniors Trevor Johnson and Sam Rea are announced on homecoming court. Photo Courtesy of Mrs. Elaine Wink

Starstruck Day was a chance for students to dress as their favorite celebrities such as Snookie, Adam Lambert, Pikachu and the Wiggles.

Starstruck

Seniors continue the tradition of holding up newspapers during underclassmen’s lipsyncs. Photo by Amy Mackens

The tradition of Camo Day was continued enthusiastically by students and staff with camo tees, army uniforms and hunting outfits.

Camouflage

The chamber choir kicks off the pep assembly by performing the National Anthem. Photo by Amy Mackens

Generation Day, one of the new additions to Spirit Week, designated babies, toddlers, adults, old people and teens to each class and staff members.

Generations

Class Colors Day added to the pep rally atmosphere by designating purple, lime green, yellow, blue and orange to grade levels and the staff.

Class Colors

Photo courtesy of Prestige Photography and yearbook staff

Homecoming week is something that most students look forward to from the beginning of the school year. To some, it is an event to be prepared for months in advance. However, before homecoming is even on the radar of most RHS students, student council (stugo) is planning out the week’s festivities.

“We start planning Homecoming in May of the previous school year. My students get together at least once a month, if not more, during the summer to do more planning,” stugo adviser Mrs. Kelley Cusmano said. “At lunch last spring we polled all different kinds of kids to ask their opinions on the theme.

Then, we got together as a council and tried different layouts and game ideas for each of thefinal themes. The most creative ideas came from Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory so that was what we decided.”

Spirit Week, which featured standard themes like Camo Day as well as new additions like Generation Day and Starstruck Day were generally well-received, but some students such as junior Nick Rinehart were not fans.

“I didn’t like any of the days this year, so I didn’t participate much,” Rinehart said. “I wish they would have come up with some new ideas for next year like a Fraternal Twin Day, a Pregnant Teen Day or a Fish Day.” Some freshmen, such as Megan Birleson, were simply looking forward to the change from middle school to high school.

“One of the biggest differences I saw compared to last year is the level of participation,” Birleson said. “People seemed way more exited for the dance and the week leading up to it, and the pep rally was better than ones at West [Middle School]. There was so much more going on this year.”

For this year’s game, the Falcons played West Bloomfield, and shut them out with a final score of 17-0. The victory was the first homecoming win since 1999.

“The homecoming game was definitely my favorite part of the week,” Rinehart said. “I was expecting another blowout loss, so having a win for Homecoming was really surprising and exiting.”

Overall, Mrs. Cusmano believes that homecoming week was a success for both the student body and stugo.

“Watching everyone have fun is one of the most rewarding parts of the event,” Mrs. Cusmano said.

“I love teaching at Rochester and there’s nothing better than seeing a bunch of kids enjoy themselves at our school and have some spirit. I also love watching my Stugo take charge of events and be successful.”

NEW STAFF DQ

JUNIORS

4

The Hatchling October 2010

Q&A

Court unveiled during game

Senior Tori Pagnani Q: Did you know you would get voted on homecoming court?

A: No, I actually had no idea.

Senior and prom king Trevor Johnson and Sam Rae cheer at the homecoming game.

Photo Courtesy of Mrs. Elaine Wink

Juniors Kyle Wink and Hannah Kosek await the announcement of king and queen. Photo Courtesy of Mrs. Elaine Wink

Freshmen Julia Magas and Spiro Pliakos look on as homecoming king and queen are crowned. Photo Courtesy of Mrs. Elaine Wink Seniors Elive Likine and Sarah Yaque

Juniors Jim Geddes and Amanda Graham walk to join the rest of the court.

Photo Courtesy of Mrs. Elaine Wink

A: No, I think I was actually more excited.

Q: Did you wear two different dresses, one for court and one for the actual dance?

5Fivexlovely 5:

people answer five questions for your enjoyment.

Q: Were you nervous to be on homecoming court?

A: I wore the same dress for everything.

Freshman David Mackens

Sophomore John Doroshewitz

Junior Jim Geddes

Senior Mariem Naboulsi

Mrs. Kelley Cusmano

1. On a scale from 1 to Mike “The Situation,” how awesome was the dance?

About a Mike

JWoww

Paula Abdul

3/4 Mike

Snookie

2. Favorite spirit day?

Generations Day

Camo Day

Generations Day

Generations Day

Generations Day

3. The Freshman Lipsync was_______?

Terrible

Worse than the sophomores

Ehhhhhhh

Better than ours

Way better than years before

4. How much time did you spend getting ready?

15 minutes

20 minutesish

Yes

Three hours tops

A couple of hours

5. Homecoming is to sweat as ______?

Cheech is to Chong

Trevor Johnson is to King

Bono is to Mortal Combat

The game was to victory

Mr. Compton is to MSU

Q: How did you feel when they called your name to be homecoming queen?

A: It was a surreal feeling! I was really surprised, but at the same time I was really happy.

Q: What do you think the best thing about being homecoming queen is?

A: The best thing is knowing that people in your grade respect you, that’s I was the most happiest about.

Q: What did your friends say after you were announced homecoming queen?

A: They all ran up to me and hugged me and congratulated me, which helped a lot because I knew they were as happy as I was.