Viking Longboat: Volume 15, Issue 5 by Viking Longboat

2.12.2010 haslett high school

5450 marsh road haslett mi 48840

volume 15 issue 5

Haslett helps Haiti by elizabeth YOUNG

Two students weave their way around the cafeteria, squeezing between the clusters of round tables and stepping over strewn backpacks and textbooks. They clutch a plastic jug in each hand, which jingle with coins as people drop in spare change. It is the start of the penny war, during which students place money into the jars of other graduation classes to avoid having the most money. So far, the sophomores are in the lead. However, this activity was more than a contest among the different grades. It was a fundraiser — co-sponsored by French Club and Key Club — to aid Haiti in the wake of the massive 7.0 earthquake that struck the country on Jan. 12. The disaster killed over 170,000 people and left more than a million others homeless. French club president, senior Tiffany Oricchio, first learned about the earthquake over the radio, but it was her French teacher’s concern that led to the organization of a fundraiser. “When I came to French class that day, Ms. (Alison) Dykman was really distraught by it, so she told us all about it and showed us pictures on CNN,” Oricchio said. “Afterwards, she called the French (Club) officers in to decide what we wanted to do as a fundraiser, if we wanted to help the cause and stuff and we decided yes.” The French Club officers wanted to send the money to Haiti quickly and decided that hosting a penny war would be a fun way of fostering competition among students to contribute to a good cause. They partnered with Key Club, who collected the money during lunch. French Club also needed to decide on the organization to which the money would be donated. After they narrowed their choices to the American Red Cross and Doctors Without Borders, they decided to go with the latter. “Everyone does (American Red Cross),” Oricchio said. “We wanted to do something different. People don’t know as much about (Doctors Without Borders), but they’re a really reliable organization as well.” Known by its French name, Médecins Sans Frontières, Doctors Without Borders is an international medical organization started by a group of French doctors and journalists. It has sent medical personnel to aid over 60 countries, including its current relief efforts for Haiti. Other students have tried to help Haiti in different ways, some more successful than others. While sophomore Emma Rulison participated in the penny war, she didn’t realize that her family had taken further steps to have an impact on a Haitian child’s life. “I actually didn’t know we had put in an adoption paper until probably a week or so later, (when) my sister told me,” Rulison said. “A lot of people were asking me if it was a sponsorship or an adoption and I told them it was an adoption paper, but it turns out we can’t get (a child).”

see Haslett helps Haiti page 2

photo by ryan CYZMAN

Senior french club member David Laczynski counts the money collected during the penny war photo courtsey of alison Dykman

Everything is at DrivingRight.org check out our insert inside.

news

February 12, 2010

Haslett helps Haiti from page 1 Rulison learned that the size of her family — two parents and four children — was considered too large to adopt another child. Rulison disagrees with the decision. “I am really disappointed because ﬁrst of all, it’d be fun to have another family member and someone who needs help shouldn’t be limited to a big family or little family,” Rulison said. “I personally think big families could be more welcoming and I kind of get how maybe big families have to pay for more, so it’d be hard to pay for another kid. But with our family, we’d be welcoming and a good family for another orphan.” While it seems that Rulison’s family will be unable to carry out its original plan, Rulison has found another way to contribute to the cause. “I got this blank check for Christmas,” Rulison said. “It was $20 and I could pick what to give it to, so I was thinking of texting $20…into Haiti.” Rulison is referring to a mobile fundraising endeavor started on Jan. 12 by Mobile Accord and the MGive Foundation along with the U.S. State Department. People have contributed over $10 million through their cell phone companies, which then send the money to the American Red Cross and other relief organizations. Junior Kerry Morris and her family are in a similar situation, having tried to adopt children from Haiti in the past. Seeing the disaster on the news deeply impacted her family. “It really hits close to home for us because a few years ago, we were going to adopt two babies from there,” Morris said. “But it’s just so bad there that it just didn’t work out because of the government and how everything is made over there. So it was really sad to hear because I just felt like I had the opportunity to make a difference and I couldn’t.” Morris’s family has fostered children from Sudan and Afghanistan in the past and is now considering fostering Haitian children. Morris’s mother also plans to sign up to go to Haiti to help in the relief efforts. “She’s a registered nurse, so she’d go down there and she’d just help out with all the kids and help do antibiotics and just take care of people and make sure that they’re in good condition,” Morris said. Although Morris is nervous about her mom making the trek, she is happy for her as well. “It’s really nerve-wracking just because of how it is over there but I’m really proud and I’m jealous,” Morris said. “I wish I could go help, too.” It’s the end of the penny war. The freshmen have made a comeback, beating out the rest of the classes with the lowest amount of money. Now the next step is to send the $1,118 to Doctors Without Borders in support of Haiti, helping a country heal.

Underwood’s uninhabited damaged house located in a neighborhood oﬀ of Meridian Road.

photo by taylor PARKER

Student and family cope with aftermath of a house ﬁre by calla VAN ATTA

In a matter of hours, everything she had ever owned was reduced to a huge pile of rubble and ashes. Those few hours in the early morning of Dec. 20 will forever haunt sophomore Morgan Underwood. “We were sleeping....it was around four o’clock and my dad woke up because he smelled smoke,” Underwood said. The Underwoods quickly left their house wearing just their pajamas--the only articles of clothing they would have for days--and watched and waited for about an hour until the ﬁremen arrived.

“We live in Williamston, so it took the ﬁre department a long time to get there,” Underwood said. Underwood spent that night at her grandmother’s home with her family. She described the next morning as the hardest part of the horrifying ordeal. “We went back the next day at about 9,” Underwood said. “We didn’t think it would be that bad.” The Underwoods were not expecting the damage to be to the extent of what they faced that morning. Adding to the anguish was the fact that the Underwoods had just recently re-modeled several areas of their home. Included in these renovations was the addition of wood ﬂoors throughout the

home and the remodeling of the basement that had flooded in the summer. The basement is where the fire originated due to electrical wiring issues. As far as living arrangements go, the Underwoods are managing. “We stayed in a hotel for about a month, and now we are staying in a condo while they are rebuilding our house,” Underwood said. The reconstruction will take awhile because the house must be rebuilt from the ground up. The Underwoods aren’t expected to return home until next fall. The Underwoods are recovering slowly, but surely, to the life they knew before the fire.

“Every time we go to the store we just pick up more stuff because we need everything,” Underwood said. “You wake up and don’t have any clothes to wear and you go around for days wearing the same things everywhere.” Even the simple necessities must be replaced. “You have to go buy a toothbrush just to brush your teeth,” Underwood said. Surprisingly, not everything was lost to the ﬁre. The salvaging of two priceless items was a bright spot in the midst of the unimaginable loss. “My mom had her wedding ring and my grandmother’s ring in the bathroom,” Underwood said. “She dug through the rubble and found them.”

“Wizard of Oz” ballet features HHS students by jenny LITTLE

A woman at the front of the room claps out a slow, steady beat to an almost tribal sounding song as girls clad in sweatshirts and dance shoes set off in a large whirling circle. The dancers are all spinning and leaping to their spots while minding the instructor who’s calling out “Point your toe!” and “Stand up straight!” The girls are dancing to the Cirque du Soleil song “Pursuit.” They are the human tornado in the

Wizard of Oz that is going to sweep Dorothy’s house out of Kansas. The tornado dance is one of several dances four Haslett students will perform for Michelle’s Studio of Dance’s production of “The Wizard of Oz.” “The show is an interesting take on ‘The Wizard of Oz’ combined with ‘Wicked’,” senior Rebecca Abel said. Abel, along with seniors Sam Sohn and Chelsea Chapin,

and freshman Logan Dunckel, auditioned for Oz in October. Every Sunday the cast of Oz gets together to practice. According to Chapin, practice is one of the most important factors of the show. Dunckel agrees. “You have to dance and work really hard. You have to make a lot of compromises if you want to take it on,” Dunckel said. Dunckel, Sohn, Chapin and Abel share roles as a part of the tornado in Kansas, the blizzard

that takes away the drowsy effect of the poppy ﬁeld, and citizens of Oz. Dunckel has the additional role of being one of the ﬂying monkeys and Sohn and Chapin play friends of Dorothy’s while she’s in Kansas. “The toughest part is the tornado dance,” Sohn said. “It’s a six-minute song and there’s stuff going on the whole time. There’s a lot of spinning and jumping and it’s really easy to get dizzy.”

Right before the show the dancers have to pull their hair away from their face, stretch and put a lot of make-up on. This is a procedure the girls are familiar with due to having been in last year’s production of “Cinderella.” “I’m not nervous because I was nervous for ‘Cinderella’ last year and it turned out ﬁne,” Chapin said. “One of the toughest things is if you have a lot of costume changes,” Dunckel.

Abel thinks the challenges are worth it. “My favorite part is just getting to be a part of a really big production and seeing it all pay off,” Abel said. “I’m nervous but I have a feeling that with practice the show will turn out fantastic.” The show is on Feb. 27 at 7 p.m. and Feb. 28 at 4 p.m. at the Hannah Community Center in East Lansing. Tickets are $12 for students and $15 for adults.

news

February 12, 2010

The Answers in Black and White by mary BROWN, nick ROSENBERY and kevin WILLSON

Why don’t seniors have to take second semester exams?

What is the appeal of “Jersey Shore?”

“It’s awesome. They think they’re all that. Like Mike, he’s probably 30 tearing it up like he’s 21. It’s sad and a tad pathetic but super awesome.” -Gwen Fitchett, sophomore

“I really don’t know. It was like that before I got here and that’s just how it’s been.” -Bart Wegenke, principal

Why are the bathrooms located next to Mr. Radecki’s room so cold?

“We don’t want you guys hanging in the bathroom. In and out.” -Steve Kioski, head custodian

What is seasonal depression? by nick WAKULSKY

Why do so many people love a sunny day in the middle of winter? Why does another gray day in Michigan mean another day of the “winter

blahs” for so many people? Why do some people feel sad and tired more in the winter months than during the summer months? Most of these people may be suffering from some form of seasonal

affective disorder. Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that usually affects people during the winter months when there is less sunshine. The actual cause of SAD is unknown, but it seems to be related to the availability of light. Sympphoto illustration by toms of SAD andrew BEAUMAN usually occur during the cloudy winter months. They can include depression, anxiety, oversleeping, changes in eating habits, disinterest in spending time with friends and loss of energy. For some teens, SAD symptoms can really affect their

day-to-day activities. “Most teens feel sad from time to time, but when it happens a lot during the winter then it’s probably a form of seasonal affective disorder,” Dr. Laurie Hult, M.D., said. “If someone feels sad more than normal, then they should see their doctor for treatment.” Treatment for SAD can include medications for the depression, such as Wellbutrin or Paxil, as well as counseling. Another effective treatment is called light therapy. It involves sitting under a special light for 15 to 30 minutes a day. “For some people the treatment with SAD lights works very well and is easy to do right from home,” Hult said. The special lights can be purchased on the Internet. Getting treatment right away for SAD is important. If left untreated, SAD can lead to more serious forms of depression, which are usually harder to treat.

Electrical ﬁre disrupts Detroit auto show by michael SHERMAN

The 22nd annual North American International Auto Show started the week off with a scenic display of cars and models. Everything went well until a ﬁre broke out on Jan. 21 in Detroit’s Cobo Center. “My dad thought it was a fog machine” senior Nick Rosenbery said. “Next thing I know I was being evacuated from Cobo Hall.”

According to a variety of press releases, no injuries were reported. Media reports dubbed it a “small electrical fire” that appeared above the audio display. Evacuees either received a stamp to use for reentry or a day pass for later use in the week. It’s believed that the fire was started by malfunctioning lighting equipment. The flame did not ignite the flame retardant cloth surrounding it. The show reopened and continued several hours later.

opinion School lacks participation

February 12, 2010

Hot ‘n’ Cold

Nothing is more empowering than being a senior girl during football season. You’re on top of the world standing in front of everyone, cheering on the senior football players. Your head is “Every day Mr. Smith’s is cold.” spinning and you never want it to end. -Conor Chadwell, sophomore But there’s one problem. There was a total of six seniors who reported to every football game, and cheered for our team -Chloe Olson, sophomore by ali FOOTE with loud and extreme pride, and our football team didn’t go so far. Tailgates consisted of about 15-20 seniors grilling outside “I think Mr. Kohler’s an hour before the games. Seniors were leaving the team, and by the end of the season there were only five seniors left. room is freezing. I remember watching the class of 2006 members chant on their fellow senior Everyone’s always players at the state championship football game at Ford Field. Only an 8th asking why it’s so grader at the time, I gazed in amazement at the seniors as they wore the names of the senior players on the back of their shirts and cheered recklessly as the cold.” game progressed. And not just in the first quarter. Throughout the entire game -Jesse Burghdorff, senior the whole student section cheered with them. People went to the games not to stand and socialize with their boyfriends, but to be the loudest section in that stadium. Snaps for ’06. Class of 2007 alum Ryan Hundt wrote a column three years ago regarding the lack of participation in the student section. As a typical freshman, I barely read the column and only heard people talking about it. Now I find myself complaining about the exact issue that I once didn’t give a hoot about. I feel your pain, “The girls bathroom Mr. Hundt. Games are painful, people don’t care and not only does it reflect on by Wawro’s room is the seniors and student section, but on the sports teams themselves. “It is hot in the computer always warm.” For example, look at the Ionia vs. Haslett varsity boys basketball game that -Lizzy Kronner, senior labs.” -Andreas Larsen, senior took place last Friday night. Varsity basketball player, junior Zach Parker, had said, “We should kill them.” After watching the varsity girls dominate in their game against Ionia, I figured we would do the same. While we were seated, in came three girls with their shirts rolled up and the letters “IHS” splashed across their stomachs. Disgusted because the girls had “The pool is always clearly lost control of their food intake, I made fun of them once and moved on. Our student sections had about the same amount of people, only they had spirit crazy warm! Probably and we had attitudes. the warmest place in When the game began we instantly took the lead, and our student section the entire school.” threw out a few cheers of excitement, which died down after the second quarter. -Kate Steinfield, sophomore But the Ionia crowd grew louder. We ignored it and continued to make fun of the chunky girls with the rolled-up shirts. After halftime, Ionia caught up to our 12-point lead. The score was tied. Although the main reasons for this may have been their athletic abilities and desire to win the game, I have another theory. Their student section echoed throughout our gym the entire game, which gave their team the confidence and the motivation to fight their hardest. Although they failed to do so (we pulled through in the end because we’re “It’s really hot in the gym after sweet) it still blew my mind how the spirit of their student section seemed to raise the energy level of the whole team. a nice competitive game of So please help me out, and put away the social aspect of the games and help badminton.” us pick up some W’s for the rest of the season by screaming until your throat -Brennen O’Berski, senior hurts. Who knows what could happen?

“The girls bathroom by Radecki’s room is always the most freezing place in the school.”

Baby, it’s cold outside! Students dish about the warmest and coldest spots in the school. graphic by keeton SNOWDEN

Death in the family teaches important life lesson While most people were ringing in the new year and celebrating the fresh pallete they had in front by liz RINGLEIN of them, my family and I were huddled together, sobbing over the shell of a great man on his deathbed. My great-grandfather’s decline in health was shocking.

The CREW

Viking longboat staﬀ editor-in-chief Emma Claucherty copy editor Elizabeth Young photo editor Taylor Parker graphics editor Andrew Beauman

No one could have predicted that a healthy, quick-witted 89 year-old would fall victim to pneumonia, liver cancer and kidney failure all in one blow. It was devastating. Especially since we had just celebrated a beautiful and emotional Christmas with him and pictured ﬁve more Christmases to come. However, life had different plans for Grandpa. December 26th struck him with a mini-stroke that we all thought he would recover BC feature editor Ali Foote opinion editor Bailey McMillan sports editor Jerry Eastwood & Lexis Guarnaccia feature editor Hannah Nowicki ad manager Mary Hilker adviser Julie Price & Jeremy Whiting

from. With a frantic call to 9-1-1, an ambulance came an hour later and carried him off, never to return as the man he left. While in the hospital, things just got worse every day. Two weeks passed and when we felt his illnesses were terminal, we brought him home. Under the care of hospice, Dasel Harding Embry died at home ﬁve days later. It’s incredible what a dying loved one can do to a family. The house felt so empty and

STAFF

Ali Adkins Meghan Anderson Chris Andresen Liz Baker Courtney Black Mary Brown Ryan Cyzman Kelsea Ellis Kristen Everhardt Aaron Grove Shane Heston Lauren Hooper Jake Lampman Jenny Little Chris Lounsbery

tense, like all the happiness and warmth left with Grandpa that night as the EMTs rushed him out. Every phone call to the house sparked fear that it was THE call, the ﬁnal call. Death was on everybody’s mind. It consumed every second and never seemed to relent. It was like being trapped in a gray cloud. But strangely, that gray cloud drew us together as a family. All feuds and differences were forgotten. Petty arguments

Jacob Meier Kerry Morris Gabe Nester Zach Parker Chelsea Ridenour Liz Ringlein Nick Rosenbery Michael Sherman Kat Smith Keeton Snowden Jessica Stanich Cassie Staszuk Maggie Turney Calla Van Atta Casey VanDenBerg Nick Wakulsky Kevin Wilson

seemed disrespectful and unnecessary. Everyone looked out for one another, constantly asking “How are you doing today?” even though they knew the answer. My grandpa’s death brought one light to this dark time. It bandaged the wounds of our family structure that we had ignored. It’s times like these where you are forced to think about how frail life is. How you can be ﬁne one second and dead the next. Times ruled by the

grim make you appreciate the ones you love. Times ruled by the grim make you appreciate the small fraction of time we have on Earth. My grandpa’s death taught me to live with no regrets, to not consume myself with hate, war and all the evils of life. His passing taught me to just enjoy what life has to offer me before my time runs out. Grandpa’s death rebirthed the way I live my life. Kind of ironic.

The Viking Longboat is a monthly publication of Haslett High School, 5450 Marsh Road, Haslett, MI 48840. It is published by the fifth and sixth hour Journalism and Newspaper Production classes. The Longboat has been established as a student-run public forum circulated within the school and to subscribers in the community and outside the school district. The Longboat is a member of the National Scholastic Press Association, Journalism Education Association, Columbia Scholastic Press Association and Michigan Interscholastic Press Association. The publication is a eight-time Spartan award winner and CSPA gold medalist. Letters to the editor are accepted at the discretion of the editorial board. Forms of speech not protected by the First Amendment will not be published. Letters must be signed by the author and may be edited for grammar, spelling and style. Direct all questions to the Publications Room, Room 411.

5 STAFF EDITORIAL:

opinion

February 12, 2010

Roses are red, violets are blue... Valentine’s Day is to be endured

photo illustration by taylor PARKER

Red roses, conversation heart candies and tacky love notes. Due to Valentine’s Day, February is a month that seems to be full of these items. Each year, Feb. 14 is scrutinized as being a stupid and pointless “Hallmark holiday,” and while there may be some truth to this, Valentine’s Day is something that needs to be endured. Though manufacturing a specific day for one’s love, and marketing the heck out of that day is slightly irksome, Valentine’s Day is a holiday filled with anticipation. Whether it’s waiting for that special date night with a boyfriend/girlfriend, or wondering if your crush will finally confess his/her true feelings towards you, people are filled to the brim with expectations. But for some people, Valentine’s Day is full of dread. If you’re single, sometimes Feb. 14 can really be a drag, especially because of all those happy couples you’re constantly surrounded by

throughout the day. Of course, Valentine’s Day can be rough even if you aren’t single. It’s always possible for something to go wrong with plans or relationships. Keep in mind, though, that people need to be respectful of others on Valentine’s Day. Couples in love, please do not express this adoration by making out in the hallways, even if it is that time when “love is in the air.” And single people, don’t hate on others just because they have a sweetheart and you don’t. The green monster named Jealousy isn’t an attractive look for anyone. Whether you hate it or love it, Valentine’s Day is inevitable and people just need to accept that, for better or for worse. Not to be cliché, but the experiences we gain on Feb. 14 can be valuable, whether they are happy or heartbreaking. But one thing is for sure, people need to toughen up and face Valentine’s Day for what it is: cheesy, irritating and, yes, romantic.

feature

February 12, 2010

Sunday

Monday

Tuesday Wednesday Thursday

Fa s t F o r w a r d t o

Upcoming Events...

Big D and the Kids Table Magic Stick Detroit 8 p.m.

John Mayer with Michael Franti and Spearhead Van Andel Arena Grand Rapids 7:30 p.m.

Detroit Pistons vs. Houston Rockets The Palace of Auburn Hills 6 p.m.

No School

Pre-Festival Band Concert High School Auditorium 7 p.m.

March

“Jesus Christ Superstar” Masonic Temple Theatre Detroit 7 p.m.

The Flatliners Mac’s Bar Lansing 6 p.m.

27 days until spring break!

“Cats” the Musical Dow Events Center Saginaw 7:30 p.m.

Pre-Festival Choir Concert High School Auditorium 8 p.m.

Martina McBride and Trace Adkins The Palace of Auburn Hills 7:30 p.m.

“Young Frankenstein” Detroit Opera House 8 p.m. Other dates available

Disney on Ice The Palace of Auburn Hills 7:30 p.m. Other dates available

Ralya Art Night Ralya Elementary School 6-7:30 p.m.

Detroit Red Wings vs. Vancouver Canucks Joe Louis Arena Detroit 7:30 p.m.

Martina McBride and Trace Adkins Van Andel Arena Grand Rapids 7:30 p.m.

Haslett vs. Laingsburg Basketball Game Main Gym 7:30 p.m.

Black Eyed Peas featuring Akon and LMFAO The Palace of Auburn Hills 7:30 p.m.

Second Day of Michigan Merit Exams (March 9-11)

Detroit Red Wings vs. Minnesota Wild Joe Louis Arena Detroit 7:30 p.m.

L O C A L & I N D E P E N D E N T

SCHULER BOOKS & MUSIC Free Wi-Fi, Author Events, & More! Meridian Mall, Okemos 517-349-8840

www.schulerbooks.com

Friday

February

“Valentine’s Day” movie starring Ashton Kutcher and Jessica Alba opens

“Shutter Island” starring Leonardo DiCaprio and Mark Ruﬀalo

Saturday The Wizard of Oz Fisher Theatre Detroit 2 p.m. Other dates available

MSU Men’s Basketball vs. Ohio State Breslin Center Time T.B.D.

Jeﬀ Dunham Van Andel Arena Grand Rapids 8 p.m.

Tim McGraw Van Andel Arena Grand Rapids 7:30 p.m.

Alicia Keys Fox Theatre Detroit 8 p.m.

Flogging Molly The Fillmore Detroit 7 p.m.

“Remember Me” starring Robert Pattinson and Pierce Brosnan

photo illustration by taylor PARKER

BREAK

? E T A D

E K A

FEBRUARY 14th

blue compass

February 12, 2010

Valentine’s Day dates back farther than expected by meghan ANDERSON

illustration by andrew BEAUMAN

The

BEST Valentine’s Day ever

by lauren HOOPER and ali FOOTE

hen people think of Valentine’s Day they think of candy, ﬂowers and pink everywhere. It seems like most people are missing out on what this special day really means. The day itself was created because of an act of love and it seems that most people have lost sight of it. Sophomore Drew Martin has his own idea. “I think most people don’t really think much about it,” Martin said. “I think they are just like ‘Oh, Valentine’s Day! Gifts for my girlfriend’ I think they’re skipping out on the true meaning of the holiday.” Like most teenage couples, Martin spent his Valentine’s Day with his senior girlfriend, Kat Bristor. Together, the two attended dinner at Bravo followed by a movie. When exchanging gifts, Bristor received a bracelet and Martin received a scrapbook Bristor had put together for him. “It was the best because it was the little things that counted; the dinner, movie and just hanging out with him,” Bristor said. However, the two believe that it isn’t about the extravagant things that make Valentine’s Day great. It is the beauty of being together and making the most of the little time they have to spend with one another. “We’re in different grades so it’s pretty hard to see each other and hang out. (Valentine’s Day) gave us a time for that,” Martin said. Today, it seems like the more money you spend, the more you love somebody. This couple believes that getting the most expensive perfume or chocolate or the most elaborate ﬂower decorations isn’t what it’s all about. “The best Valentine’s Day for me is spending time with the person I love,” Bristor said. “That’s what makes it so special.” It is easy to forget the true meaning and purpose of Valentine’s Day with all the commercialized Hallmark hype the media exposes us too. But many couples realize the only thing they need on that day is each other. “It should be about being with someone you love and really care about and showing them how much you care, not about the material things,” Bristor said. “To others it may not seem like the ‘best’, but I think it was.”

Will you be theirs?

These students are looking for some love this Valentines day, can you help them out?

photos by ryan CYZMAN and taylor PARKER

Remember when they dated?

IN THEIR OWN WORDS: The

Think back to the elementary and middle school days when dating the games was at its peak.

WORST Valentines Day ever

Although Feb. 14 may seem like a cute little Hallmark holiday, it has roots that trace all the way back to the Roman Empire and the beginning of the Bible. It was ﬁrst celebrated as a holiday by the Romans in honor of St. Valentine. Although there are several St. Valentines in the Catholic Church today, the earliest was actually named Nimrod, which translates to Valentine in Greek. According to Genesis, he was their iconic hero, the person they longed to be--their Valentine. Later the Romans did exalt him to god status and named him “Cupid”. As the holiday has evolved, this Cupid character has shifted from a stately god to the mischievous little angel. Nimrod-Cupid-Valentine was born on Feb. 14, which became the holiday’s date. In fact, the Roman month of February derives its name from a key aspect of the Valentine celebration. “Nimrod” also means “Baal,” which means “heart” in Babylonian. Historically, hearts were a symbol of Nimrod and the Babylonians were the ﬁrst to commemorate his birthday by sending each other heart-shaped love tokens. The celebration of St. Valentine has continued since Roman and Babylonian times. It became as we know it today, when a British publisher, in 1797, printed scores of romantic poems for those less creative to use. Ornate, lacy Valentine cards became all the rage in the Victorian Era and soon, gifts such as roses and chocolates were also being given. In 1849, it became a national holiday in Great Britain. Today the United States Greeting Card Association estimates that approximately 1,000,000,000 valentines are sent worldwide each year, but few know the real story behind its origin.

One year and counting: these couples have been going strong for a long, long time photos by ryan CYZMAN

by courtney BLACK

t was the night before Valentine’s Day and 6-year-old Eric Ratkiewicz was just putting the finishing touches on his Valentine mailbox. He had worked his nimble fingers to the bone on this epic quadrangle of art. It was made with his favorite M&M chocolate candies and he could not wait to read the array of different Valentine’s Day cards he would receive from his fellow classmates the next day. Ratkiewicz even had a girlfriend this year and the best Valentine’s Day was about to be underway. The next day, Ratkiewicz held his lovestruck head high as he skipped to class, anticipating the Valentine’s Day party his classroom had planned. It finally came time to put out the handmade mailboxes for Valentine delivery. Ratkiewicz proudly set his mailbox out and made his rounds through the classroom delivering the Valentines he had made. When it came time to go back to their desks and check their own Valentine boxes, Ratkiewicz could barely contain his ecstatic emotions. He plopped down in his desk and opened up his box, expecting to find a Valentine from each classmate. But when he looked inside, the only thing he saw was the bottom of the box. Ratkiewicz’s teacher had forgotten to put his name on the class list for Valentinemaking. The next day the class was supposed to bring him a Valentine, but no one remembered. “I had no Valentines and a broken heart. It was the worst Valentine’s Day ever,” Ratkiewicz said.

Benjamin David Rathbun Age: 17 Grade: 12th Height: 6’ Likes: Doing yoga in saunas. Dislikes: Girls who don’t shave their armpits. “My only purpose on this earth is to give my love to innocent but deserving individuals.”

Olivia Margret Foote Age: 15 Grade: 9th Height: 5’2’’ Likes: Mozzarella sticks Dislikes: When I don’t get what I want. “I have high standards.”

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Robert Charles Whitaker Age: 17 Grade: 11th Height: 6’5’’ Likes: Snowball ﬁghts and complaining. Dislikes: Smart people and hair in his mashed potatoes. “In my eyes, nobody is good enough for me.”

Samuel Gard Wegenke Age: 15 Grade: 9th Height: 5’10’’ Likes: School and learning Dislikes: None, he likes everything “I’m like ﬁre, I’m cozy to be around but if you get too close I’ll burn you.”

Sophomores Ellen Corder and Ryan Beyea

Freshmen Mariah Gutierrez and Thomas Baldwin

Seniors Calla Van Atta and Casey VanDenBurg

Senior Brennen O’Berski and Junior Olivia Venuto

Justine Michelle Erskine Age: 15 Grade: 10th Height: 5’7’’ Likes: Long walks in the park and hoopin’ it up with her girls. Dislikes: Bad teeth and clingy boys. “My love is like the wind.”

WE CARE

February 12, 2010

photo story

...but really.

around the school, students lend a helping

hand

Above: Senior Matt Myers takes time to tutor seventh grader Nicholas Scharf after school in the library. Right: Senior Nicholas Bedenbender receives credit and gets paid for helping Javier Perez clean up the halls and cafeteria after lunch hours.

photo story by TAYLOR PARKER

Top Left: As art teacher Rhonda Sherwin’s teacher cadet, senior Becca Wright helps clean oﬀ the tables after ﬁrst hour 2D design. Left: Working out in the weight room, junior Brendan Semperger encourages one more lift out of sophomore Matt Welch. Above: Seniors Amber Rich and Anthony Collar collect recycling around the school.

feature

February 12, 2010

“AVATAR” HATER

“AVATAR” LOVER

True Love? Hate?

Matt Sauer, sophomore What was your least favorite aspect of “Avatar”? “Probably the story itself. I felt it lacked in its backstory and altogether ﬂow.” If you could change one thing about the movie what would it be? “The story.” What did you think of the plotline? “I felt it lacked substance for the lengthy running time of the movie. The plot had little to show for it.” Could you ever imagine anything like “Avatar” ever happening in real life? “Well I think it already has. One can draw parallels between ‘Avatar’ and what happened with the Native Americans being forced oﬀ of their land onto reservations and the Trail of Tears.” Would you rather go down with the “Avatar” characters or the sinking Titanic? “That’s a tough one, freezing cold water, or friendly blue giants; I’m sticking with the Navii.”

photo illustration by andrew BEAUMAN

Aaron Dimet, junior

What was your favorite aspect of “Avatar” ? “The graphics were spectacular.” If you could change one thing about the movie what would it be?

“I would add some more depth to the plot. It was predictable but still interesting.” Could you ever imagine anything like “Avatar” ever happening in real life? “Yeah, it’s feasible but not probable.”

Would you rather go down with the “Avatar” characters or the sinking Titanic? “I’d rather die with Avatar people, obviously because everything is better in 3-D.”

feature

February 12, 2010

Where is all of that money going? 490 seniors, juniors, sophomores and freshmen were polled to ﬁnd some answers to various questions concerning jobs and money. Here are the results.

SENIORS ��

5% 3%

�� 8%

�� 25%

108

save 76%-100% of all their money

pay for their own bills

juniors work in retail

11 percent that don’t have a savings account

seniors have savings accounts while 19 don’t

�� 4% 3%

juniors pay for their own gas

27%

16%

��

3% ��

�� 16%

juniors work more than 8 hours per week

�� 26% 2% ��

��

6% 13% ��

42%

9% ��

spend most of their money on entertainment

��

sophomores work 9-17 hours per week

��

save 76%-100% of their money

1 26

freshmen have a steady job

make more than $13 per hour

��

percent of freshmen that pay for all or part of their bills

5% ��

�� 33%

sophomores pay for their own bills

freshman works in retail

freshmen do not have a savings account

10%

��

sophomores pay for their gas

spend most of their money on food

percent that save little to none of their money

35%

��

SOPHOMORES

30%

10% 1%

��

FRESHMEN

pay for their cell phone bill

seniors spend most of their money on coﬀee

19%

20%

seniors have $13+ hourly wages

��

�� 4% ��

15%

seniors work 25+ hours per week

��

16%

SOPHOMORES FRESHMEN

percent that have $6-$8 hourly wages

2 4

JUNIORS

SENIORS

Living in the shadow of an older sibling

by emma CLAUCHERTY

Sophomore Josh Sawyer is a talented center midfielder who played varsity soccer all season. That is pretty impressive considering the team boasted a roster of 13 seniors and a 7th place finish in the state this season. But most know him as little brother of another talented player: senior Noah Sawyer, the soccer team’s top-scoring forward. The honors Noah received for the season include first team all-state, first team all-district, first team all-region, first team all-conference, Lansing State Journal all-decade and Lansing State Journal dream team. “I learn from (Noah) every time I see him play,” Josh said. Both brothers agree playing on the same team was a challenge but a worthwhile experience. “It was weird at first but as the season went on I started to appreciate it more because it was my senior year and I

would never get to do anything like that again,” Noah said. “I had never really played with (Josh) before so it was cool in the long run. It just took a little bit of time to get used to. We got into a few fights.” Since Josh is a midfielder and Noah is a forward, they are required to work together a lot on the field. Being in sync with each other’s playing makes this natural for the Sawyer boys. “It was a fun experience to play with my brother,” Josh said. “We knew the other’s playing styles and what we were going to do with the ball so we could anticipate each other’s moves.” Despite having differences, all siblings face comparison, competition and a certain amount of companionship as they muscle through high school together or consecutively. Some siblings follow the tracks left behind for them while others find their own

way. However, no matter what direction siblings go, people can’t help but compare individuals who share genes and bathrooms. It is often by chance that brothers and sisters enjoy the same things or are good at the same things. Sometimes it’s the inﬂuence of the older sibling that convinces the younger one to pursue an activity. Junior Lyndsay Manson began musical theater in sixth grade after watching her older brother Brandon. Brandon is now majoring in opera at Michigan State University after a high school career that included several leads in the high school musicals and being one of the top 10 singers in the state. “He told me how fun singing was, and I ﬁgured I wanted to do something fun,” Manson said. “He was always talking about how fun music class was. I watched him at his middle school choir concerts and I thought ‘I want to do

that. I want to be up there.’” Josh and Noah began playing soccer at the same time, when Josh was four and Noah was six. “It was just something we all did. Our parents put us in soccer so we played soccer,” Josh said. “It was something we all enjoyed playing.” Not all siblings fall into the same hobbies though. Being the second installment after an older sibling can be intimidating. The expectations of parents, teachers and peers often compare the older sibling with the younger one. “I felt like I was in his shadow freshman year when (Brandon) was a senior,” Manson said. “Everyone always said to me ‘oh you’re going to have to be just like Brandon. You’re going to have to make chorale your sophomore year. You’re going to have to do all this stuff.’ And it just got really scary and overwhelming.” Manson quickly realized there was more to her singing

than being Brandon’s little sister. “I just thought I was going to do what I can do and if I’m not as good as everyone thinks I’m about to be, then that’s ﬁne,” Manson said. “Brandon and I are two totally different people. I’m not good at the same things he was. I just looked at it as me having my own individual talent and drive separated completely from the fact that I am related to Brandon.” For Manson, singing provides a common passion her and Brandon can bond over. “I know about something he is passionate about as well so we can talk about that,” Manson said. “I can ask him for help if I need it and he can ask me how his opera song sounds and I’ll be able to tell him.” Josh and Noah are able to bond over soccer but there is also a healthy amount of competition and expectation as well.

“There were high expectations for me with him,” Josh said. “There was a lot of pressure he would put on me. But for the most part it was fun.” In one way or another, siblings can rely on each other for support. “(Brandon) is always really proud of me whenever I go to a competition or whenever I get a part in the musical,” Manson said. “He is very supportive and great about that,” Sometimes that support is in the form of brotherly competition. “It was hard at times because brothers bring out the best and worst in each other,” Josh said. “They make us want to push ourselves harder.” Despite the competiton and occasional criticism, a shared passion brings siblings together in a way nothing else can. “We were brought closer together because we were with each other every day,” Josh said. “We’ve stayed close after the season too”

sports

February 12, 2010

TOP 10 RECORDS

School has a long history of outstanding athletes. Here are our picks for the top. by casey VANDENBERG

10.

In 1999, track athlete Nathan Cahill set the record for his pole vault of 16 feet.

During the 19992000 boys basketball season, Luke McKenna grabbed 23 rebounds in one game.

During the 1975 track season, Sue Bouck set the school record in long jump with a jump of 18 feet 1 inch.

What’s the highlight of your winter season?

This year, Tiffany Oricchio set the record on the girls swimming team for the 200 freestyle with a time of 1:54:91.

In 1980, Jamie Falk helped the girls basketball team by snagging 28 rebounds in one game.

During the 19501951 boys basketball season, Noel Miller scored 44 points in a game.

This season, Chris McLauchlan scored a 307.05 on six dives, a boys swimming record. Record-setter Todd Jenks greets fans as he runs out to the court.

ﬁle photo

Hockey

Swimming

Gymnastics

Cheerleading

Boys Basketball

“Our game versus Holt because we were down 3-1 and we came back to win.” -Scott Thrun, senior Record: 3-4-2-1

“Beating DeWitt because we were supposed to lose and we went into their house and won.” -Ian McCabe, junior Record: 7-0

“On our way to St. Johns because our bus broke down and the alarm lights went on. The horn was going oﬀ and we had to pull oﬀ to the side of the road and everyone was staring at us.” -Katie Harris, freshman Record: 6-1

“Beating DeWitt because it had been a long time since we beat them and we have beat them every time this year.” -Chelsea Nelson, sophomore Record: 5-1

“The practices after we win because we get along better after we win.” -Tom McKenna, senior Record: 7-4

In 2002, track athlete Nelson DeFord set the 100 meter record with a time of 10.4 seconds.

Wrestling “Having seven out of eight medal winners at Ovid-Elsie.” -Billy Belanger, senior No Team Record

In 2008, Ian Hancke ran a 16:02 5K at the Haslett Invitational, a cross country record.

During the 1986-1987 boys basketball season, Todd Jenks scored 662 points in the season, which is an average of 27.5 points per game.

Girls Basketball “The Williamston game because we came together as a team to win the game in the end.” -Miranda Rogers, junior Record: 9-5

sports

February 12, 2010

Let us play twice a day

Class of 2009 alum and former cheer team captain Ali Kuchnicki returned to Haslett this fall after being hired as the new junior varsity cheerleading coach. “Cheerleading was the only sport I ever loved enough to stick with and I have always been very passionate about it,” Kuchnicki said. “I love my job and love the opportunity I have to share cheerleading with other high school girls who will hopefully be positively inﬂuenced by cheerleading the way I have been.”

Our overweight population could use two gym classes During my sophomore year when I was scheduling for my upcoming junior year, I wanted to have two athletic classes. So I signed up for fourth hour volleyball and ﬁrst hour weight training. A month later, I was called down to the media center and told I needed to change my schedule because of the two sport-type classes I had. I was only allowed to by jerry take one of them as a class. EASTWOOD I love sports and not being able to take two of those classes really didn’t settle with me. This is one of the major problems with Haslett High School. Kids who are athletic or enjoy playing sports should be able to take two athletic classes at their leisure. You shouldn’t punish a kid who wants to stay in shape or get better at a sport. You should endorse it because kids want to stay in shape, something that America is trying to get teens to do. There are commercials sponsored by sports associations, such as the NFL, that endorse a program called Play 60. The program tries to motivate kids to play for at least 60 minutes a day to help lower the obesity rate. According to TeenHelp.com, 30.4 percent of teens are considered overweight and 15.5 percent are obese. Seeing these stats is phenomenal, as this is the generation I am in. Our weight is getting out of control. Also, what is shocking is that Michigan is considered the 10th fattest state in America, which should be another concern for the school to consider. If kids were allowed to have two classes of physical activity each day, they would go above the recommended amount of time for physical activity in the day. Also, look into the past. If a kid skipped a class to be in another class, where did he or she most likely head? They wouldn’t be in FST or biology; they would be in the freshman gym class, volleyball class or in the weight room. What’s similar with all three of those classes? All of the kids in there aren’t just sitting and watching, they are in the class doing physical activities. If you allowed kids to have two gym classes, you would see a decline in unexcused absences and skipping. People might say kids shouldn’t take two gym classes because they don’t get the variety of subjects they should have to prepare for college.

If you’re a senior and you have already hit all your requirements to graduate, why shouldn’t you be able to take two classes of gym? Seniors deserve the opportunity to take the two athletic classes. If they have been accepted into a college, then why punish them? According to TeenHelp.com, 78 percent of parents feel that physical education should be in the school schedule, so these students should be allowed to take two physical education classes. The school does let students take two art classes. Principal Bart Wegenke says this is allowed because if you are taking two art classes, it is most likely because you are going to an art institute. That statement is invalid because last semester, I had two art classes, and I’m not even close to being a great artist. That’s not even the ﬁeld I am going into. And let’s compare this to a kid going to school on an athletic scholarship. If a student is going to play football or any other sport in college, then he should be able to take two classes, like sports and recreation and weightlifting. That way, he can stay conditioned in sports and recreation and get bigger and stronger with weightlifting. Also, taking two athletic classes doesn’t mean you are just taking blow off classes. Just talk with volleyball teacher Patricia Terres. Some of the most serious volleyball players are in the class and are some of the best and most gifted athletes in the school: Josh Delaney, Tim Stockwell, Brian Plesscher, Allie Horstman, Kyle Levine, Taylor Pringle, etc. Can you imagine if they were allowed to take two hours of volleyball? Not only would they get more of their daily exercise in, their athletic skills would improve dramatically. Here is my challenge to the principals and Superintendent Mike Duda: Go into the volleyball class or sports and recreation class and watch. You’ll see the athletes who take the class seriously and work hard. Those kids are deserving of taking two gym classes. These kids give it their all and deserve the chance to take the two sport-type classes they want. Haslett has some very gifted athletes and they want to improve their skills or stay in shape. So why should Haslett deny them from trying to stay ﬁt and most importantly, staying healthy?

photo by ryan CYZMAN

Alumni coaches happy to be back on sidelines by jake LAMPMAN

While attending an athletic event this year, take note of some familiar faces on the sidelines. These familiar faces are Haslett graduates who have found a way to get involved in the sport they used to play by now coaching it. Class of 2009 alum Jon Fletcher is a former varsity football player who became one of the defensive coaches for this year’s freshman football team. He started on varsity as a junior and has returned to share his knowledge of the sport he loves with younger players, as well as to help prepare for his future career as a football coach. “I want to coach when I’m older, so I just decided to stay with the game while it’s still fresh in my mind,” Fletcher said. “Plus, I like the staff.” Although the freshman football team didn’t have a winning record, there are more important things on Fletcher’s mind, such as the tradition he grew up with in Haslett: Winning.

“My favorite part about coaching in Haslett is just the tradition that comes along with it. The success hasn’t been as great as it has been in the past,” Fletcher said. “But there is no doubt in my mind that it will be soon. I just want to be a part of the rebuilding process.” Not only does being an alumni coach keep former athletes in the game they love, it also provides them with some perspective. “Coaching at Haslett, I ﬁnally understood why the coaches gave us these drills at practice that we all hated and could not stand,” assistant junior varsity volleyball coach Melanie Hornberger said. Hornberger, also a 2009 graduate, takes her job seriously and tries to better her players not only as athletes, but in life. She also learns a thing or two about where the coaches are actually coming from when they take certain actions. “Being able to talk to my coaches from high school and say you know what all these

drills and talks (are don’t) just better you as a player but better you in life,” Hornberger said. “They teach you not to give up no matter how hard and impossible it seems, and that it’s all worth it in the end.” There is nothing better to a sports junkie in high school than to graduate and come back to coach. Class of 2009 alum Brett Hewitt is fulﬁlling that dream by coaching the boys swim team. But for Hewitt, the best part is getting paid to hang out with his old underclassmen friends and give them a few pointers along the way. “I get paid to hang out with some cool guys and we are doing really well and having tons of of fun doing it,” Hewitt said. The pay is good for these coaches, ranging from $500 to $1,500. But they will tell you the only thing better than the pay is sharing their knowledge with younger athletes and helping to better the school’s sports tradition, which is beating DeWitt and being the best they can be as coaches.

Hooper is a hardcore hockey fan by lauren HOOPER

Bundled up in a heavy down jacket, fuzzy mittens, furry boots and a warm wool scarf, I watch the puck race up and down the ice. Players dodge each other, sticks bang loudly and the occasional whistle blows. Headache right? To me, this what I live for. I grew up watching hockey. My older cousin played and since second grade I’ve had Michigan State University mens hockey season tickets. I knew the rules of the game before I learned division. I knew that I loved it before I learned how to multiply fractions. The rink was like my second

home. It was an essential part of me. Years later my brother started playing. It seemed like it was all I could have wanted. Every day I went to his practices and every weekend I spent watching his games. I cried when he got his first goal and screamed when he got his first penalty and no matter what I was there supporting him. This intensified my love for the sport even more. Entering high school was like moving up higher on a ladder. I started to attend all of the Eastside Stars hockey games. I could watch my love while cheering on my fellow classmates. I could further combine my school and my hobby. I don’t play, but maybe I will someday. Ever since I started

watching it I knew I wanted to be right in the middle of it. My family has always joked that I was born talking about hockey and I would be the best hockey player because of how well I know the sport. Years from now or when I’ve already graduated, maybe I’ll strap on my own pair of skates and join the ranks. But for now I’m just glad to support and love the game. That’s where I am now. I know most of the people in our school can relate. Most teenagers I know have a passion for some sport or hobby just like I do. It may be a strange thing to love, but it’s my life and I can’t live without it. You can take the girl out of the rink, but you can’t take the rink out of the girl.

sports

February 12, 2010

ATHLETES OF THE MONTH

Senior Noah Sawyer by kat SMITH

Between soccer and basketball it’s hard to miss senior Noah Sawyer. Starting at the age of 7, he has pushed himself in basketball and it has really started to show. His dedicated goal-driven attitude has certainly helped as well. After winning districts in basketball last year and a great senior soccer season, it’s easy to see that whatever Sawyer puts his mind and body towards he can acheive. “I try and do whatever I can to help my team,” said Sawyer. “And when we all come together like that it makes a huge difference.” Things are looking up for the basketball team this year, and Sawyer doesn’t doubt that they will do well in the end. “As a team this year I think we’ll finish strong and at least get a share of the league.” Sawyer said. Though he is a great team player, he has also set some goals for himself. He hopes to stay near the top in the area for assists and have an overall great senior season. Looking at the way the season is going, this shouldn’t be a problem.Though the team lost in over-time in the district finals, Sawyer still feels strongly the boys had a great season. “Winning districts last year was definitely my basketball highlight.” Sawyer said. But even with a great basketball history, Sawyer plans on trying to walk onto the Michigan State University Men’s soccer team in the fall.

NOAH SAWYER IS averaging 7.9 points per game this season along with 3 rebounds, 3.8 assists and 2 steals through 11 games. His best game was against Holt in which he was 100 percent from the ﬁeld. In the end, he had 15 points, 1 rebound, 3 assists and 3 steals. Senior Noah Sawyer is focused and in his defensive stance as an Ionia point guard comes down the court.

Senior Crystalle’ Izzo by kristen EVERHARDT

As senior Crystalle’ Izzo steps onto the gymnastics mat, she is nerve-free and thrilled to start her routine. With 13 years of experience, Izzo doesn’t get nervous but the adrenaline kicks in, making it more exciting for her. Izzo has made it to the state meet for the past two years and is hoping to make this year her third trip. She believes that working to the best of her ability, not letting herself down and giving her all at every event can get her back to states again. Staying in shape is also a crucial thing for Izzo to be successful. Practices consist of going through rotations, running through routines and conditioning to keep her fit. Because Izzo doesn’t think she will continue with gymnastics after high school, another goal is to make her last year worth it. Although she doesn’t see herself competing again, coaching is an interest and would be something for her since she enjoys the sport so much. “It defines me,” Izzo said. “Without gymnastics, I don’t know how I would make it.” Izzo has been a part of the high school gymnastics team for three years and of the club gymnastics team for 10 years. High school gymnastics is more for fun with Izzo but club gymnastics is more serious. Izzo is feeling pretty confident about her team this year and sees plenty of potential throughout the team. “So far, it’s looking good,” Izzo said. “There is lots of potential and lots of strong gymnasts who are going far. We’re really determined and we hope to make it to States.”

CRYSTALLE’ IZZO THIS season has seen multiple first-place finishes in several events including floor and beam, making her a top contributor to the team. Izzo placed first in beam in her match against Lumen Christi and first on beam and floor in the St. John’s Invitational. Senior Crystalle’ Izzo practices perfecting her bar routine before a meet.

photos by taylor PARKER

February 12, 2010

yrotS yrevE ot sediS by gabe NESTER

How long have you been teaching at HHS? “I got my teaching degree at MSU in my 30s after 13 years of working for the State of Michigan. So this is my 18th year at Haslett.”

back of the boat

Sides to Every Story

What courses have you taught since employed here at Haslett? “Before Haslett, I taught 2nd grade at a private school. But I felt my calling was for upper level kids. Now at Haslett I teach Spanish and German.”

by shelby WOOD

How long have you been teaching at HHS? ”This is my ninth year.” What courses have you taught since employed here at Haslett? ”Psychology, freshmen P.E., volleyball, weight training, life guarding, pool time, lifetime recreation and sports recreation.” What grade of students do you prefer to work with and why? ”I don’t really have a preference... I enjoy all of my classes.”

What grade of students do you prefer to work with and why? “High school wasn’t a time I particularly enjoyed, but I absolutely love teaching these kids.”

Do you think students feel comfortable asking you questions? ”Yeah, most of them feel comfortable.”

Do you think students feel comfortable asking you questions? “I am aware that I have a rep of not being an easy teacher. It’s hard for some, but I encourage students to ask me if they need help.”

What is your cell phone policy? ”I follow the school policy usually, but I generally give out a warning ﬁrst.”

What is your cell phone policy? “I follow the school policy. If I hear it or see it, the student needs to surrender their phone.”

How often do you send students to ISS? ”A lot of freshman boys the ﬁrst eight weeks of school.”

How often do you send Julie Southwell students to ISS? “Not very often. I utilize it when someone is preventing others from learning, doesn’t have materials prepared for class or is sleeping.” When do you want to retire? “I have no immediate plans to retire. I love my job, and I love what I teach.” How do you think your position will be aﬀected by the budget cuts? “I am hoping the district begins to oﬀer Spanish V. Freshmen are starting high school in Spanish II, and want to continue Spanish throughout high school. Things are going to change.”

photos by taylor PARKER

What motivated you to be a swim coach? ”I swam myself for seven years and I just always enjoyed teaching people. I used to be a lifeguard... that got me into coaching. I’ve been doing it since then.” Bob Oliver

When do you want to retire? ”Yesterday. (laughs) I’ll probably retire in about 10 years.” How do you think your position will be aﬀected by the budget cuts? ”I don’t think my position will be aﬀected much because P.E. is a graduation requirement.”

photo illustration by andrew BEAUMAN

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