Ramparts April 2012

ramparts Volume 20, Issue 7

Holt High School

Cultures Collide

Holt Senior High School 5885 West Holt Rd. Holt, MI 48842

APRIL 2012 Feature:

Take a look at students’ favorite activities to do during the springtime.

PAGE 10

Photo courtesy of Allen J. Schaben/Los Angeles Times/MCT

HOT SPOT:

Students reflect on how their favorite boybands have changed over the past two decades.

PAGE 12

Review what went down during this year’s World Language Week. page 2

Photo by Maci Palmer

SPORTS:

Sophomore Stacie Skinker dresses as a ‘Super Fan’’ to cheer on her team. The World Cup took place on April 19 at Soccer Zone with France finishing in first.

Photo by Ben Blanck

Spring season brings new goals to student-athletes.

PAGES 14 & 15

2

April 2012

F.Y.I.

3.5 DINNER

The 3.5 dinner is for senior students who have maintained a 3.5 or higher GPA from the first trimester of ninth grade to the second trimester of their senior year. The Holt Public Schools Board of Education is sponsoring the dinner, which can only be attended by invitation, and will be held in the west commons on April 30 at 6:30 p.m.

COMMENCEMENT

Commencement for seniors will be held at 4:30 p.m. on June 3 at the Breslin Center. Seniors who have met the graduation requirement will walk and receive their diplomas. It will also feature speeches from students and teachers. All family and friends of graduating students are welcome to attend.

PROM

Prom tickets went on sale April 23. Tickets will be $28 presale, or $35 at the door. Prom night is May 19 with the theme of “Year of the Dragon.”

SENIOR BREAKFAST

The senior breakfast will be held Saturday, June 2 in the west commons at 9 a.m. Parents will prepare and serve breakfast. Most seniors will bring their yearbooks for signing.

STUDENT SUCCESS ROOM The Student Success Room is a place where students can go and study, do homework or sign up for a tutor. It is held MondayThursday in the library and lasts from 2:45-3:45. Any 10-12 grade students are welcome to attend.

Students must have their own transportation home. Contact Student Success Coordinator Joann Weil at 699-6423 with any further questions.

SENIOR EXAM POLICY

For graduating seniors, exams can be avoided by keeping a good attendance record in the third trimester. Students who have no more than three excused absences in a class are excused from that exam. Any unexcused absences or three or more tardies in a class will result in exams.

Senior exams will be held on May 31.

News

Holt High School Ramparts

Language week brings excitement Students participate in world culture

Ben Blanck

entertaniment editor From April 16-20 the modern language teachers put together a week of fun, cultural, entertaining and educational events at the school, which were intended as a way for the students to learn different aspects of the world cultures.

Each day of the week had a certain theme and events that represented each of the languages. The students were given a passport which they got stamped for each event. This was how the teachers kept score and gave credit to the students for the week.

“There are several different things throughout the week that students may do, like speak your language day, a day to dress in authentic clothing from the culture you represent, a food day and the assembly,” Spanish teacher Brooke Klecha said. “The passports are a visual aid to show students events they can take part in and allowed them a way to keep track of their points.”

The assembly took place in the auditorium and was only open to language students or those with special permission because there was a limited amount of seating, and it was a closed event. In the assembly, there was anything from

guest speakers talking about their home and culture, also, some were just there to be purely motivational, special dances, music, acting and even a work out.

“There were 15 acts this year, with 10 from students and five outside groups, which tells me that students are participating more,” Spanish teacher Karen Holman-Cer vera said. “It is also nice to see added support from the Holt and Lansing community as well as Michigan State University and Lansing Community College.” The two colleges came and spoke to the students about the many different cultures represented in the college’s student body.

Past happenings during the assembly include Justo Lamas, an Argentinian rock star, a traditional Mexican hat dance, a Korean cultural dance as well as a Zumba work out.

It can guaranteed these assemblies are always exciting and the audience never knows what to expect.

“As a student, World Language Week is very special to me because not only do I get to just have a blast with a bunch of different kids learning German, but I get to have a blast with a whole group of kids that are learning other foreign languages as well,” sophomore Timmy Cain said.

This year there is a new addition to the assembly, as the HHS Asian Club played a part in the event for the first time this year and performed a dance that recognized Asian culture. This was their first year in World Language Week and they were excited to be a

News

3

Students can start college early

In Brief

The Early College (TEC) program offered by Lansing Community College

Student Council is preparing for next year’s group. They have picked Teryn Henderson as the future president for the 2012-13 school year. Student Council had an afternoon meeting on Thursday in order to see if after school meetings work better for students rather than the normal Wednesday morning before school.

Meg McKay

Photo by Ben Blanck

part of it.

“We feel that we would be adding more diversity and culture to ‘world’ language week,” junior Zach Ly, Vice President of the Asian Club, said. “We’re participating this year because we’re a relatively new club.

Having the Asian Club participate in World Language Week is an excellent way of broadcasting the club for Holt High School.”

Also, each of the language classes prepared some sort of dance or act to put on at the assembly that recognized some part of their culture to music in their language.

The final big event in world language week was the World Cup Championship game at the local Soccer Zone on April 19 at 5 p.m.

There are generally four teams in the tournament which are Spain, Mexico, Germany and France. However, because the Asian Club will be part of World Language Week, they also hoped to take home the World Cup. “The French team is always talking up their game, and the German team is always more quiet, but they are a strong team and have won the last two years making them a force to be reckoned with,” Holman-Cervera said. “Personally, I would like to see Spain win because they have not won in the past and we have a good group this year.”

After many hard fought games between the classes, the championship was between Spain and France with France as the victors.

High school is not easy for everyone. College is the same way. Some students have been given the opportunity to do both at the same time.

Lansing Community College (LCC) started The Early College ( TEC) in partnership with Ingham Intermediate School District (ISD) for students currently in tenth and eleventh grades. They will then attend grades 11 and 12 followed by an additional year of schooling at LCC. “During the first week of orientation for TEC program I was nervous, although there were several students from Holt who also par ticipated,” junior Melissa Jackson said.

“Now the Early College students are all one big family. Unlike high school, everyone gets along.”

This opportunity allows students to earn their high school diploma, as well as 60 college credits. This comes at no charge to

Student Council

AP Testing

editor-in-cheif

Juniors Alex Hadick and Zach Dowling battle out different cultures on the soccer field. Team France ended up taking home the championship.

April 2012

Holt High School Ramparts

Photos by T.J. King

The Early College students Jacob Nicolas, Justice Jacobs and Brandi Blair study in their classrooms at LCC. This program offers many students to get a head start on their college education. the participants. After the completion of the program, these students will have had the opportunity to acquire an associate’s degree.

“The environment is great and more mature.

We have fun, but we know when to keep it down,” junior T.J. King said.

The program is open to schools like Holt, Mason, East Lansing and Waverly, along with some other schools in surrounding areas.

“On the first day of preschool you don’t know anyone, but as the year progresses you learn more about them and realize they’re just like you,” junior Lorin Cumberbatch said. “At first, in the beginning of school, it was strange cause I barely knew anyone, but since I went to both Holt and Waverly a while I knew a lot more

people than everyone else.”

Although the program wor ks for some students, not ever yone is interested in participating. Junior Ricky Lowery was invited to join the program, but decided against it. “ The fact that I would be missing out on regular high school activities such as peprallys, World Language Week and cer tain electives like gym, art, tech-draw and others are just a few reasons I choose not to attend,” Lowery said. “I believe that those who did join the program are missing out more than me. High school is something that everyone should experience to the fullest. It’s like a development stage.”

Advance Placement (AP) Exams start May 7 and continue until May 18.

Students who are enrolled in any AP classes are eligible to take the exam.

Each exam costs $87, which was due earlier in April. Students receive a score from 1-5, with five being the best. Students who receive a score between 3-5 are eligible to receive college credit depending on the college and program.

Choir Talent Show

The Choir Council decided to have a talent show featuring students who are a part of the various choirs at HHS. They will hold the event in the Black Box on Thursday, May 17 at 7 p.m. All students participating are volunteering to perform. Tickets will be sold for $4 a piece or for $2 when a canned food item is brought along.

Science Olympiad

Back in February, Science Olympiad won regionals and in two weeks they are headed to states. States are April 28. They are busy up until that day with practices. There will be 48 other high schools competing in states, and they are ready to give it their all.

Forensics

The forensics team took three regional crowns at last week’s State Regional Speech Competition held at Dexter High School. Capturing first for Holt were Rachel Stacy in Poetry, Tyler Leighton in Extemporaneous and Ben Lyth for Impromptu speech. Holt also qualified four others for the State Finals to be held in May at Western Michigan University.

Those students were Sara Delgado in Poetry, Josh Golden in Dramatic Interpretation, Cassidy Gardner for Broadcast and Evan Edwards in Extemporaneous. Golden and Gardner were runners up in their categories.

This is the second time Holt has qualified as many as seven students for the Michigan Interscholastic Forensic Association Finals.

News

4

April 2012

Holt High School Ramparts

Prom season approaches with new options

HHS plans safe activities for after Prom Hannah Marsh

staff writer For many students, Prom is an exciting way to end the school year. Picking a date, choosing a dress, getting the hair, nails and make-up all done perfectly. It’s a fun process.

With prom season getting closer, the students and faculty at HHS are teaming up to help keep the promgoers safe. Working hand-in-hand w i t h B u i l d i n g Twe n t yo n e a n d Celebration Cinema, the school is offering students a variety of safe alternatives after Prom rather than drinking and partying.

“I don’t want to go out and party after Prom because I don’t know what could happen. Something p o te nt i a l l y b a d co u l d e n d u p happening, and I’d regret it the rest of my life,” junior K atelyn Danford said.

Building Twentyone is hosting a n “Af te r Pro m” p a r t y at H H S .

After Prom will take place from the end of Prom until 3 a.m. the

n e x t m o r n i n g. T i c k e t s a r e $ 5 a n d i n c l u d e a n a s s o r t m e nt o f activities.

“We will have the pool open for open swim, a couple of movies p l ay i n g i n t h e t h e ate r. I n t h e gym, half will be reserved for a dodgeball tournament and the other half will be inflatable like a n o b s t a c l e c o u r s e, fo u r - m a n j o u s t i n g a n d b o u n c y b ox i n g,” said Chris Neal, Communications Director for Building Twentyone.

“In the commons we will have the mechanical bull, a couple of our own DJ’s to keep the dancing going if people want.”

On April 13, HHS held a safety awareness assembly that gave the students more information about alternatives af ter Prom.

The students gathered in the gym to listen to guest speakers as well as fellow classmates discussed options outside of drinking post Prom.

“I think it’s a great idea to have a safe place for us to go after Prom so no one has to worr y about doing something they’d regret or getting into trouble,” junior Aaron Mull said.

A letter was read, by Mull, from the journal of former student Brett Johnson, who is serving time for

5

Holt High School Ramparts

April 2012

Young Playwrights submit their one act plays Honors English class shares their plays in hopes of winning performances Maya Fews staff writer

Photo by Cody Shattuck

Speaking to the student body, seniors Amy Carr and Lauren Maier talk about why they choose not to drink. Maier and Carr presented their speeches in front of the school at the Safe Prom assembly. being involved in a fatal drinking and driving accident last year, to remind students of the dangers that come with underage drinking. “ The school is trying to make safe alternatives for after Prom,” said junior Maci Palmer, a member of the Prom Committee. “ There will be a lot of options for students to do.”

Post Prom

Where: HHS When:May20,12a.m. to 3 a.m.

Tickets:$5

What: Open swim, movies, dodgeball, mechanicalbull,gamesand DJ’s for dancing

Poetry slam finalists compete for first place Poetry Slam spreads the word about being safe for Prom Zack Gilliland

Photo by Zack Gilliland

Standing together in front of the student body, the six Poetry Slam finalists present their pieces.

The students competed for the grand prize of a Prom Package. smoke, or even think about getting in a car with asking for participants to compete in the Poetry someone who is under the influence.

Slam.

Economics teacher Robert Dozier was the “The Poetry Slam is a competition where key organizer for the Poetry Slam. Students students will use their creativity to get the might have heard him announcing at lunch message out about having a safe prom. Schools

that do this usually have students write an essay for this, but instead we are doing this,” Dozier said.

“The message that I wanted people to get was that everyone belongs, people are loved and cared about, and they should stay on this earth because again they do belong, and again people do really care and love each and every one of the girls and boys, men and women, ladies and gentlemen,” Covert said.

Mojica said he participated in the Poetry Slam because he believes it’s right even if he hates talking in front of people.

“The message I wanted to get out is you can drink, but drink at your own risk because you are responsible for your actions,” Mojica said.

The Poetry Slam wasn’t only a competition, but an important way to keep the message about being safe this Prom season fresh in every ones minds.

“It was important that we made the message of making good choices when having fun fresh in everyone’s minds, because some choices can have a negative outcomes,” Dozier said. “It was also important so it wasn’t just adults relaying the message, but your peers as well.”

The Young Playwrights Festival gives high school students the opportunity to submit one-act plays and the possibility of them being performed.

Three students from HHS were chosen to become semifinalists: juniors Chris Gillespie, Julie Shallman and Maria Williams.

The festival is put on by Michigan State University and Michigan State University Federal Credit Union. Six finalists are chosen to have their plays performed and earn a $200 grant. The other six semifinalists get a $100 grant.

In order to submit one-act plays to the festival, there is a set of requirements, in order to be a finalist or semifinalist. The oneact plays have a 12- page maximum. The six finalists are chosen based on the revisions from the one-act play.

“I had forgotten about it so I was really shocked. I was sure I wouldn’t make it past the semi- finals,” Shallman said.

Shallman’s play is about a girl who tried to recreate Facebook in real life after she finds out that it no longer exists. The

Photo by Maya Fews

Displaying the writing process, juniors Julie Shallman and Maria Willams show what it’s like to write a one act-play. Shallman was picked as a finalist in the Young Playwrights Festival. inspiration came from a class discussion about Facebook in social studies teacher Jim Keckeisen’s Modern American Issues class.

HHS students learn about the Young Playwrights Festival through English 11 courses, Honors English teacher Anne Russo requires her students to write one-act plays. Those who are interested in the festival have the ability to enter.

“It was a class assignment that I began, and it simply ended up morphing into what it did. It actually started as something really different,” junior Maria Williams said.

The one-act play that Williams submitted was about a girl who is struggling with who she wants to be while the expectations of her friends and family weigh heavily on her. Prom is looming closer, causing more stress for the main character.

Students find out whether they are finalists in March and the six finalists have their plays performed in May at the Wharton Center. Honors English 11 classes will g o t o s e e S h a l l m a n’s p l a y p e r fo r m e d o n M a y 1 4 .

Once the finalists are selected, students will work with a director who turns the one-act play into a reality.

“Julie will be working with a director from MSU’s Theater program to best suit the play for the audience in May. It’s a truly collaborative process between the authors and the directors,” Russo said.

HHS students have been submitting their one-act plays for 11 years, when former HHS English teacher Amy Kilbridge began encouraging her students to enter the contest.

The purpose of the Young Playwrights competition is to give students the ability to exercise their writing and Michigan State has the opportunity to give back to high schools while appreciating the arts.

Model United Nations solves world issues Students learn about countries stances and debate international issues McKenna Glisson staff writer Model United Nations (Model UN) competes to come up with ideas to solve modern day international problems. Competitions are held at different colleges. MSU is known to have one of the best Model UN programs, so the Model UN team goes there almost every year. Last month they competed at MSU for three days but didn’t win anything this year. In 2008 they won Best

Small Delegation at MSU. Model UN is a simulation of the United Nations that teaches students about current events, topics in international relations, diplomacy and the United Nations agenda.

The real United Nations was created after World War ll to bring countries together to discuss issues that affect all the world. They sit down and discuss issues and decide how to fix those issues.

Model UN participants need a variety of communication and critical thinking skills in order to represent the policies of their country. These skills are public speaking, group communication, research, policy analysis, active listening, negotiating, conflict resolution, note taking and technical writing.

“Model UN teaches students about the value of diplomacy and the ability to work with others to accomplish something instead of thinking everything is a competition,” World History teacher Corey Martin said.



staff writer As part of the Safe Prom Initiative, the school held a Poetry Slam in the HHS auditorium. For the Poetry Slam, students had to write a poem to recite on Wednesday, April 11.

Three females and three males were selected as the winners of the competition.

The community and Michigan State Police are sponsors for the Safe Prom Initiative.

The first place winners were junior Jenna Covert and senior Mikhale Mojica. Both students won Prom tickets, free dinner at P.F. Chang’s, Flowers from Wild Strawberry Florist and $150 towards a dress or tuxedo. Covert also will be getting her hair and nails done, provided

by Steven L. Marvin Salon.

Covert said she participated in the Poetry Slam because she felt that it was a good time to encourage her fellow peers to not drink or

News

Students in Model UN study a country’s stance on certain issues and debate them with other Model UN students.

“I enjoy debating with other delegates, working on resolutions and meeting new people who enjoy debating,” junior Erin Chapman said.

At competitions students are put into different committees like general that deals with issues going on right now, specialized and crisis that deal with past or future issues.

“I like that we get to go to different conferences and represent our school through delegation,” junior Micah Norwood said.

Model UN is open up to Martin’s A.P. students and people who hear about it through friends.

This year, Martin is selling donuts, the proceeds will go towards the Model United Nations Team. Sales are available in W119 before and after school. They are also available in the commons during nutrition break.

6

Viewpoints

April 2012

Holt High School Ramparts

Our View

Where should Prom be: the high school?

Early College helps out many students

Prom location causing an issue with students?

A

s part of getting ready for the real world, enrolling into a college can help give students a head start in life. Early College has many benefits and helps with expectations of the future.

With Early College through Lansing Community College (LCC), students can focus on what they want to learn as well as being able to do it at their own pace. With the enrollment, it can give students the advantage of having an early college experience to help them get ready for the future. The focus of the classes taken will allow students to learn on a potentially faster track along with the ability to gain college credits while still being in a high school.

With gaining credits for college, it permits the student to see what it takes to be at the college level. The Early College program gives students access to bigger opportunities with classes they select, which can benefit them in life as well as career pathways.

When entering into a field of work, getting along and working with coworker can be a key component to a job. The program gives those who are attending the opportunity to meet people who are interested in the same aspects and classes they are attending.

The negative side of enrolling in a college while in high school, is missing out on the activities that are involved with growing up. Some of the classes that could be taken may involve more work, but it allows for potential and opportunities that can be beneficial in the long run. You may have to provide your own transportation, but you can gain an experience that not many get the opportunity to have.

The early enrollment program can offer multiple tools to help a student move forward in school and the future.

ramparts Editors in Chief:

Managing Editors: News: Opinion: Features: Hot Spot: Sports: Staff Writers:

Adviser:

Chloé Henley Meg McKay Cody Shattuck Tori Frailey Anna Pavlik Ben Blanck Michael Hua Zahra Ahmad, Maya Fews, Dalton Gibson, Zack Gilliland, McKenna Glisson, Hannah Marsh, Ana Moncao, Daniel Yu Amy Clark

Editorial Policy: Ramparts is published by the Journalism class of Holt High School.

The newspaper serves the students and staff of Holt High School and as a connection to the Holt-Dimondale community.

The objective of Ramparts is to publish a factual, informative and entertaining newspaper, and to provide a forum for the expression of diverse viewpoints.

The opinions and views expressed do not necessarily represent the views of the administration, the adviser, or all Ramparts staff members.

The editors reserve the right to reject any material that is libelous, obscene, or poses an immediate and material disruption to the educational environment.

Ramparts prints letters to the editor and guest editorials as space allows. Letters must be typed, less than 200 words in length and signed. The editorial staff reserves the right to edit for length. Ramparts will not print letters that are obscene, libelous or that target an individual.

Advertisements that are obscene, misleading, or illegal to minors will not be printed. Ramparts reserves the right to reject any advertisement. To place an ad, contact the adviser or the Ramparts staff at (517) 694-2162.

Some material courtesy of American Society of Newspaper Editors/MCT Campus High School Newspaper Service.

Meg McKay

W

hen you walk down the hallway you don’t recognize where you are. Decorations line the entry way and props make everything extraordinary. You talk with your friends ready to have a great night and tons of fun. It’s Prom night at Holt High School.

As Prom time rolls around, girls talk about their dresses and how they want their hair to look, while guys complain about how much their tux rental will be for a single night. The totals start to add up. The outfits, flowers, dinner and limo -each is part of the whole experience.

Tickets for Prom are always cheaper the earlier you buy them.

This sale helps pay for the props and extra activities we will get to enjoy. But what a lot of students don’t realize is that having Prom at school is one of the only ways our Prom stands apart from others.

HHS has the largest Prom in option. But I know I wouldn’t pay the state and with that comes much more than we already do just expectations of greatness. It would to go to a different location.

By having Prom at school, we be great if we could have an elaborate environment to enjoy the festivities, are able to have multiple lighting but the sacrifices that would have to companies come and change the be made are vastly larger than some atmosphere. We are able to have more than just would expect. a few balloons The fund As Pro m t i m e ro l l s a n d s o m e raising the Prom committee does around, girls talk about their c o n f e t t i s e t with the help dresses and how they want on the tables. of ticket sales their hair to look while guys I t a l s o h e l p s hat we can basically pays complain about how much tstart setting up for the night.

B e c a u s e o u r their tux rental will be for a ahead of time.

I get more district already single night. excited as has custodial t h e d a y and other personal who are paid to prepare a p p r o a c h e s b e c a u s e I s e e for special events, we save nearly decorations getting put up and teachers hustling around getting $10,000 by having Prom at school.

N o w d o n’ t g e t m e w r o n g, last minute things figured out. It having prom at Eagle Eye or on the gives students more to talk about Michigan Princess Riverboat or at as they begin to see their normal any other hall would be really fun, environment change and become but it seems a tad ridiculous to go something different.

It makes more sense to me to through that much trouble when we have resources available to us to enjoy Prom with friends in a place have a good time. If it was a matter that isn’t going to cost us all an of paying a couple more dollars to arm and a leg. School becomes a have the same amount of activities different place for a special night and extra things we enjoy during and that is more than enough for Prom in a different setting, it would me. be more reasonable to consider that

Your View Students need more anti-tobacco education Dear Editor, I’ve been watching the news, reading articles and listening to people talk about how harmful cigarettes are. I think this is a serious problem when the U.S. health statistics says that 8,000 children smoke cigarettes every day, and 3,000 become addicted to cigarettes every day.

Our children are getting closer to the “cancer stick.”

Even the law says an individual needs to be at least 18 years old to purchase cigarettes, but some teenagers, who are not 18, still can purchase them online. That’s an open door for teens to get into what they know they shouldn’t do. It’s more dangerous than we usually think because one can be more likely to become a life smoker if he/she starts at a young age.

Why do we leave the door open and let people harm themselves? It’s not that hard to find a teenager smoking nowadays, that would become a trend to young people because teenagers are easily affected by their peers. So that’s why I think we should do more about them in order to show people that choosing not to smoke is easier than quitting smoking.

There are many programs that are created for people who want to quit smoking. They provide nicotine products and other material for free. Some schools don’t talk about those programs, but actually, that’s what every school should have.

Most people just know cigarettes cause lung cancer,

Viewpoints

but they don’t know also, it causes other cancers such as mouth cancer and tongue cancer. Teenagers should be given more information about cigarettes.

April 2012

Holt High School Ramparts

Prom needs a new location

A new venue will improve Prom opinions

“

”

7

Chloe Henley

S

tudents spend around 1,260 hours are in the classroom per year which is equivalent to about 5,040 hours for a four-year participation here at HHS. With 720 days being spent in high school, not counting extracurricular activities, I would rather not be in school if I didn’t have to be.

Before Prom was held at the high school, it was held at The Summit.

Having Prom at the school saves us nearly $10,000, which allows us to have more decorations and activities. But Prom is a big part of your high school experience. I would rather come together as a whole and fundraise to help out the cost of putting Prom on at another location.

Prom should be spent in an atmosphere other than school.

I come to school to learn.

When Prom rolls around, the girls spend hours getting ready between hair, make up, nails and getting dressed and the boys get a new haircut, shave and throw on their tuxedo.

After spending so long in preparation for the event, the last place I feel as if I can have fun and get down on the dance floor is in the same atmosphere that I learn in.

When I come to school, I am not in the best mood as I am when I am with my friends.

So trying to come having a good time and being at school is

difficult.

I come to school every day, expec ting t h e s a m e atmosphere with students sitting in the commons doing homework or talking with their friends. On Prom night, students walk into a foreign environment. Decorations are hanging from the ceilings, loud music is being blasted and a chocolate fountain is spitting u p t r e a t s f o r k i d s t o e n j o y.

It sounds like it’s a fun time until you put it in your own high school.

It doesn’t make Prom feel as special

and as if it is just another day at school, but instead of everyone in sweatpants, they’re all dressed up in expensive dresses and tuxedos.

I remember my sophomore year, someone from DeWitt asked me where our Prom was held and she was surprised to hear it was held in the center of our school.

While our Prom was held in center commons, theirs was held on the Michigan Princess Riverboat.

Obviously, the riverboat made their ticket prices more expensive, but I would rather pay more money to go to a place that was not created for learning. You only go to Prom two, maybe three, times in your life so why not go big?

I would rather sacrifice some of the extra activities we are given such as caricatures, henna tattoos or the senior VIP lounge to have a different atmosphere.

Even if Prom were held at another location every other year, it would give us something to compare it to.

The students who like the safety of a familiar environment can have it their way and those who like to change it up can have their year.

You only go to “prom two, maybe

three times in your life so why not go big? “

Hot: Sleeping in

Not: Waking up early

Waking up late every now and then being excused for the first couple of hours of the day.

Being a senior and forcing yourself to go to school in order to not take exams.

Speak up

If you could pick anyone to be president who would it be?

“Bill Gates -- he is the richest man, and I like his views on working to earn your own money.”

India Heard-Benford, junior

“Rick Perry -- he is like an average guy.”

Alex Payne, senior

“Oprah -- she is giving and not a selfish person.”

Katie Casler, senior

Tram Lam Senior

“Eminem -- he is intelligent and has meaning behind his ideas.”

Thank you from the Ramparts staff Dear Students, The Ramparts Staff would like to thank all of the participants who have submitted letters to the editor throughout the 2011-12 school year. Your voice and opinions have been heard and helped to educate the staff and students of HHS on matters that pertain to them. Your viewpoints have helped to broaden topics not everyone is aware about. We encourage you to keep sending your letters in the years to come, so that your voice may be heard. We could not have done it without you.

Timmy Cain, sophomore

“Hillary Clinton -- I love her ability to deal with people, and she is a team player.”

Hannah Cappelletti, social studies

Thanks, The Ramparts staff

Corrections

Express your view If you’d like to comment on an article in Ramparts, or any issue in the news, write us a letter to the editor of 150 words or less and e-mail it to us at ramparts@hpsk12.net.

Cartoon Chloe Henley Cartoon byby Chloe Henley

Ramparts is committed to printing news that is both informative and accurate. If we get it wrong, we want to put it right. If you are aware of any errors of fact in our reporting please contact us in room E221 or send an e-mail to ramparts@ hpsk12.net.

8 Features Will you go to prom with me?

April 2012

Holt High School Ramparts

Holt High School Ramparts

S ummer Concerts in Michigan

Dalton Gibson

staff writer

Students think of creative ways to ask future dates to this year’s Prom

The Bear

Daniel Yu staff writer Prom season is coming along and so are the pressures of finding a date. But what some worry about more than finding a date is finding the right way to ask. People have found new and creative ways of asking their future dates to Prom over the years and students here also join in the fun.

It’s not too late to find someone to go to Prom with. Any of these ideas could also be used to ask a close friend or a crush of a long time. Students share their creative ideas and opinions about asking someone to Prom.

Photo by Jessie Golden. Used with permission.

Senior Conner Klisch bought a personalized teddy bear for girlfriend Jessie Golden. Along with the bear, he bought a bouquet of flowers.

“I was trying to think of a special way to ask. I think a guy should ask in a unique way because Prom means a lot to people, and it makes it seem like they really are the ones you want to go with. If the girl wants ask a guy they can,” Klisch said.

This plan can be changed around and one can use a teddy bear holding a note that asks the question along with flowers or candy. Be sure to find out their favorite candy or flowers when you attempt this method. This will make it seem more personalized and special to the person you are asking.

Asking with food

Photo by Alec Greene. Used with permission.

Sophomore Alec Greene was asked to prom with a pizza that had “prom” spelled out using pepperoni slices. Different food can be used, and it is a popular ways for girls or guys to ask someone to prom. Just find a food that they will like and spell out “prom” using the food or slip a note into the food before they eat it.

“Well in my opinion, the guy should ask the girl. That is unless you’re a baby like myself, therefore being too young to ask someone to go to the junior/senior dance. But I see nothing wrong with a girl asking a guy,” Greene said. “To be honest I don’t think there are any bad ways per se. Cyber asking probably wouldn’t be your best bet. I have seen notes and flowers. In my case writing in a pizza, that’s a definite yes. Not only was it adorable, but I got to grub on pizza after.”

Using large posters

Photo by Taylor Hull. Used with permission.

Candles

Senior Erik Fiasky asked his girlfriend Taylor Hull to Prom by spelling out “Prom?” on her driveway at night using small candles. Adding music or other romantic touches can add to the effectiveness of this method. Fiasky also shared his opinions on when to ask someone to Prom.

“I’d say the week(s) before spring break, so March sometime.

Most of the good ones are gone after that and it’s more pressure as you wait longer,” Fiasky said. “Almost anything that isn’t up-front is going to be cheesy, but most girls won’t care. It doesn’t have to be something new or something way out. Just do whatever feels right for the person.”

Fiasky got his idea while brainstorming at night and looking at streetlights.

“I thought how I could use lights in numbers and candle idea came to me. I would shape the candle in “Prom?” in the dark and it’d light up. I used 50 candles for that crap,” Fiasky said.

Features

Photo by Kaitlyn Barner. Used with permission.

Junior Jacob McCreery asked girlfriend Kaitlyn Barner using large posters on the beach during spring break. Asking in a large public place may create more pressure, but makes the experience more memorable. Senior Kaitlyn Barner shares her opinion on asking someone to Prom.

“I think the boy should ask the girl. I wouldn’t want a friend to ask me in a huge way so it’s not awkward,” Barner said. “I think every girl should be asked in a cute way to Prom; it’s the biggest night of high school for senior girls to dress up and look pretty and have fun with their friends.”

Find cute things to write on the posters online or by asking friends.

Do’s

Don’ts

. Always ask in person

. Don’t ask a stranger

. Make it personalized

. Don’t ask the same person twice

. Be unique and creative

. Don’t text or ask online

. Be confident

. Don’t wait too long for a response

9

April 2012

Many concerts that students will be interested are coming this summer. Michigan will host concerts for those who want to come and sing along to a nice country song, or concerts for those who want to get hyped and jump up and down rapping every word to the song. This is your chance to be able to see one of your favorite artists for when they come to Michigan.

Artist Time

Place

Red Hot Chili Peppers

May 26 Van Andel Arena 8 p.m.

in Grand Rapids

Students’ Thoughts

“I’m pretty excited to go to this concert because I’m a big fan, and this is my first time seeing them live. Also, Zach Hernandez will be with me, so it will be fun,” sophomore Megan Kelly said.

Drake, J. Cole, and Waka Flocka Flame May 30

7 p.m.

“I am so excited to see Drake and J. Cole, I can’t wait. When I get older I am DTE Energy Music

going to marry Drake. I am his biggest fan,” sophomore Hawra Ahmad said.

Theater in Clarkston

One Direction

June 1 7:30 p.m.

Fox Theater in Detroit

Brad Paisley and The Band Perry

June 16 7:30 p.m.

DTE Energy Music and The Band Perry. I’d rather be going to a Justin Bieber concert though,” Theater in Clarkston sophomore Ally Bird said.

Big Time Rush

July 31 DTE Energy Music

7 p.m.

Theater in Clarkston

“I love them so much. I am easily their biggest fan. I am going to cry at their concert,” sophomore Sam Sarata said.

“My sister loves country and decided to take me to the concert with Brad Paisley

“I am so excited for the Big Time Rush concert because I have been a fan for a while. I think their music is great and so catchy. I enjoy jamming out in the car with Sam to their music. They are so cute, especially James. I really recommend listening to one of their songs. My favorite is probably ‘If I Ruled the World’,” sophomore Abby Cleary said.

10

April 2012

It’s in the Genes

Features Holt High School Ramparts

April showers bring May activities

As you watch TV you see the Pure Michigan commercials, displaying beautiful trees with multicolored leaves cascading down onto the pavement, and sparkling lakes in the sunset. But as we watch, we all think the same thing, ‘That is not what I see when I look opinion editor out of my window, Michigan sucks.’ But truth is, the images you see are realistic and can be surprisingly close to home. This spring, get outside and take a trip to the beach, the zoo or even a new ice cream hangout, anything to get outside and enjoy the weather.

Tori Frailey

Mirror, Mirror

W

Ice Cream

Lions, and Tigers, and Bears (Oh My!)

I scream for ice cream

The Potter Park Zoo in East Lansing might not have bears to watch, but it does have many other unique animals such as otters, red pandas, coral reefs and even rhinos. More than 500 individual animals are represented throughout the zoo.

The zoo is the proud home of their three Amur tiger cubs that were born approximately seven months ago. The zoo also has refreshing concession stands and a gift shop.

“My favorite animal at the zoo is the tiger.

Not only do I like watching all the other animals at the zoo, but it’s a really cool to experience watching the new tiger babies play too,” junior Dustin Farrington said.

Visitors can expect to see Potter Park Zoo grow even more within the next couple of years with many new animal encounters for the enjoyment of everyone.

Sugar Berry, located in Lansing on E. Grand River, is the home of the make-it-yourself frozen yogurt. With creamy, healthy alternatives to just the same old ice cream, Sugar Berry is a hangout that offers many flavors of yogurt and a large buffet of toppings to choose from.

Toppings include fresh strawberries,

Lugnuts One, two, three strikes you’re out at the old ball game Come support your local minor league baseball team -- the Lansing Lugnuts. In celebration of the Lugnuts’ 17th season, they are hosting an Eata-Palooza, Saturday, April 28. Fans will receive a ticket to the game and unlimited food and soft



sprinkles, marshmallows, cookie dough balls, a variety of crushed up candy bars and unique popping bobas.

The prices vary from cup to cup, depending on how much your tasty treat weighs. Sugar Berry also is a chill place to hang out and watch TV or to just sit on the comfortable, vibrantly colored couches.

“Sugar Berry is a really fun, colorful place to go to for a yummy treat. Since it is frozen yogurt, it is healthier than normal ice cream, but it still tastes so good,” junior Gabrielle Campos said.

The Beach Where you can be a tourist, a beach bum or a star Missing that warm, sandy beach to lie on during those hot summer days?

Whether you are strolling along the beach during the sunset or lying out during the day, Grand Haven has a lot to offer.

“Grand Haven is one of my most favorite places to go in Michigan, especially when you get a car full of friends in the summer and just drive to the beach. It’s also a good place to go holla at some girls,” senior Scott Reid said.

Every year Grand Haven hosts the Coast Guard Festival to honor the men and women of the United States Coast Guard. From July 27 to August 5 the beach will be filled with people from near drinks all for $17.

In Cooley Stadium, fans can expect to enjoy a game night, complete with fly balls, fun activities and good food. This year the season for the Lugnuts looks very promising. After winning all seven of their first games, the Lugnuts plan to have a successful season.

Every month the Lugnuts hosts a variety of activities from Dollar Days to Kid’s Day, which includes cheap food, inflatable playpens, balloons



Holt High School Ramparts

April 2012

With rumors flying, students tell what they think is real Anna Pavlik feature editor Being in high school, students know how fast rumors can spread. While some may be the truth, others can be a complete lie. So how fast do rumors spread when you’re a celebrity and paparazzi is watching your every move?

Many people choose not to listen or pay attention to celebrity gossip, knowing that much of it is exaggerated or false.

“I don’t really pay attention to celebrity gossip because it’s not relevant to my life,” senior Dharbi Hicok said. “A lot of the time it’s overexaggerated or not true.”

However, when you switch through the channels on TV and land on an entertainment channel or flip through the pages of a celebrity magazine and see something interesting, it can be hard to resist reading and listening to it.

“I listen to celebrity gossip because it’s entertaining, and there’s always something new,” senior Victoria Davis said.

Is Snooki really pregnant?

and far to celebrate with many attractions and activities, including carnival rides, parades and street dancing. However, the final night of the festival is the most exciting, when the town and waterfront is lit up in the Fireworks Extravaganza. and face painting.

“I have gone to a Lugnuts game one time and it was pretty fun. I found $20 and the Nuts won, so it was all in all a good experience,” junior Robin Cupples said.

Photos by Tori Frailey

Nicole Polizzi, also known as Snooki, from the TV show “Jersey Shore” announced her pregnancy in March after denying the rumor for weeks. There was much murmur and talk from fans and viewers wondering if it was true, and if it was, then what was going to happen.

“I’ve heard that Snooki is pregnant,” Hicok said. “I didn’t think it was true at first, but I wouldn’t doubt it.”

Many fans are wondering how she will react to being a mother and if she’ll raise her child right after the partying life she tends to lead. Furthermore, “Jersey Shore” watchers wonder if it’s going to affect the show. In an interview of the castmembers, they said that they are not worried about it affecting the show.

Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt Finally Engaged?

After seeing Angelina Jolie with a ring on her engagement finger in public, rumors flew about whether the couple is now engaged. Brad Pitt’s manager confirmed to The Associated Press that the couple is indeed engaged.

Not only was Angelina sporting an engagement ring, but according to inside information, the ring was handmade especially for Angelina.

However, the real rumor is whether or not Pitt’s ex, Jennifer



hen I was little, no matter where my mother and I went, I always heard the same statement. “There’s no denying she looks just like her mother!”

With the same dirty blonde-brown curls, freckles plastered across our faces and big brown eyes, you could basically see the same genes on both of us.

As a teenager, the resemblance is still there. But I’m left thinking about the rest of my mom and me. I know that I look like her, but what about my personality? Is that almost nearly identical to my mom’s, too?

When you’re younger you need your mom to feed you, to help you get ready in the morning and to kiss your boo-boos. Now, years later, my mom still takes care of me with undeniable commitment. I’m amazed when all I do is walk by her in the living room and she knows if something is wrong or not.

My mom should wear a cape around; she’s a superhero. Taking care of a teenage daughter (which I’ve been told repeatedly isn’t the easiest) with two older sons, one in college and one traveling the United States, is only where she begins.

She works insanely hard at her job, being one of the only secretaries at her work with three bosses because everyone knows she can handle it.

She goes in early, stays late or goes in on the weekend just to get everything done. Then, she comes home, makes dinner and takes care of me, the house and our pets. By the end of the night I’m sure she’s exhausted, but she still spends time with me, watching TV or going somewhere fun. Seriously, I need to get that woman a cape.

I remember a specifically hard week I was having. I came home with tears in my eyes and my mom stood there hugging me for several minutes without saying anything. She made me my favorite food and talked to me all night.

So the next morning when I woke up and looked into my mirror, I was glad that what was reflected was a mirror image my mother. And although I was aware I looked like her, I could only hope my personality was the same as hers, too.

The Zoo

11

New big celebrity rumors: fact or fiction?

There is no excuse for staying inside on your couch this spring

Anna Pavlik

Features

Lionel Hahn/Abaca Press/MCT. Used with permission.

Francis Specker/Landov/MCT. Used with permission.

Aniston, is jealous or happy for the newly engaged couple. While some are saying she’s raging jealous and miserable after hearing the news, other tabloids are saying that she’s very happy for them and may even attend the wedding.

thinks they are cute together and that Kayne West is a family friend.

Is Kim Kardashian Already Dating a New Man?

The rumors on Khloe and Lamar’s divorce have been proven to be going back and forth. Lamar Odom plays for the Dallas Mavericks, but with the taping of the TV show Keeping Up With The Kardashians, some have said that Lamar feels he can’t be as dedicated as he should be to his team.

“I don’t believe it because Khloe is nice and I love her, “ senior Kelsie Schafer said.

However, the stress of a reality TV isn’t the only thing causing the spread of rumors about divorce. The couple have been trying to have a baby, but infertility issues have been coming in between the two. Khloe admitted that having a baby has become more of a job, because they’ve been trying so hard to have a baby.

Rumors spread as actor Kim Kardashian, one of the stars of the TV hit show “Keeping Up With The Kardashians”, is in the middle of her divorce with soon-to-be-ex-husband Kris Humphries.

“I think that if she was dating Kayne, there’d be more coverage,” Davis said. “It’s probably just another rumor made up or exaggerated by Hollywood to spike publicity.”

But there’s a twist to the rumors. Some are saying that Kim is already dating rapper Kayne West. Khloe, Kim’s sister, appeared on “The Ellen Degeneres Show” and did not answer one way or the other on if she was dating Kayne West, only saying that she

Are Khloe Kardashian and Lamar Odom getting a divorce?

12

The Hot Spot

April 2012

Holt High School Ramparts

Boybands win over hearts of teenage girls Students reflect on boybands that have taken over the music industry Chloe Henley editor-in-chief

1993

In the past two decades, boybands from across the world have been reaching the top of the charts and gaining attention from teenagers everywhere. In the 1990s, boybands such as the Backstreet Boys and *Nsync were the biggest hit but today, Big Time Rush (BTR) and One Direction are the latest flings.

Take a look at how boybands have evolved over the last 20 years.

1995

1997

1999

2001

2003 2005 2007 2009 2011 2012

*Nsync

BTR

One Direction

American boy band, Backstreet Boys held their career from 1993 to 2002 and then picking back up in 2005. Cousins Kevin Richardson and Brian Littrell sang in a local church in Kentucky. They then, decided to start a boy band. After their search began, they had found A.J. McLean and Howie Dorough in Florida and Nick Carter had come later through auditions. Eventually, Richardson dropped out. The band sold over 130 million copies worldwide and their first seven albums hit the top ten. Their most popular songs are ‘I’ll Never Break Your Heart’, ‘Quit Playing Games With My Heart’ and ‘I Want It That Way.’ In 2005, the group released a new album Never Gone after a three-year break.

From 1995 to 2002, *Nsync was stealing the hearts of young girls in the music industry. In 1995, vocalist Chris Kirkpatrick met with manager Lou Pearlman on creating a boy band.

Pearlman agreed to finance the group once he had found more members. Kirkpatrick then called Joey Fatone, whom he had met while working at Universal Studios. Justin Timberlake was appointed from the Mickey Mouse Club.

Timberlake recruited J.C. Chasez and Timberlake’s vocal coach recommended Lance Bass.

In 2002, the group decided to take a break, planning to reuniting but never did because Timberlake wanted to focus on his solo career.

BTR is an American boy band out of Los Angeles. Their career started in 2009 from a television show aired on Nickelodeon.

Nickelodeon signed their record deal in 2009 along with their television show. Their first album, BTR, debuted in October of 2010 with their second album, Elevate, released after nearly a year in November 2011. In 2012, the group won ‘Favorite Music Group’ at the Kids Choice Awards. Their most popular songs are ‘Music Sounds Better With You’, ‘Til I Forget About You’ and ‘Boyfriend’.

The next British invasion has entered America with the British-Irish boy band, One Direction. In 2010, the five members were solo candidates on the show “The X Factor,” but failed in the ‘boys’ category. One of the judges appointed them into the ‘groups’ category and that’s where it all began. “American Idol” judge Simon Cowell signed them into his record label Syco Records. Later on, the group signed with Columbia Records. In September 2011, the boy band released their hot single ‘What Makes You Beautiful’ which peaked number one in the United Kingdom.

The song also won ‘Best British Single’ award at the 2012 Brit Awards. Shortly after, their debut album ‘Up All Night’ was released in November 2011.

“I think the only reason that I liked them was because I had a huge crush on the blonde one, Nick. But also, because they were really popular at the time. I have been a fan for as long as I can remember and I probably always will be. They hold a lot of memories for me. My friends and I used to jam out in the car to Backstreet Boys.

I think I liked Backstreet Boys more than *Nsync because I used to love Nick and that’s the only reason I chose to favor them. Justin Timberlake was not as attractive back in the day. I guess they really aren’t any different though. I really love both bands,” senior Ashlee Bowden said.

13

Holt High School Ramparts

April 2012

Bringing the classics back Disney fans appreciate the new trend of animated classics being remade

My Tunes We’ve selected two people to interview and find out what music they love this month.

What’s stuck in business teacher Jeff Shane’s head?

Ana Moncao

staff writer

Backstreet Boys

“I like their music and Lance’s frosted tips. Also, I was obsessed with Justin. I like them better than the Backstreet Boys because they had more variety.

Backstreet Boys is too sappy,” senior Mandie Lester said.

The Hot Spot

“I like BTR because they sing great songs and because of their TV show. They’re the best boyband because they just keep coming out with new stuff. I have been a fan of them since they came out on Radio Disney about two years ago. My favorite song is ‘If I Ruled The World.’ They’re different from the rest because they’re all so talented and are really cute,” sophomore Sam Sarata said.

“I love One Direction because they have a wide variety of music between slow songs and fast, upbeat songs. My favorite member is Zain. He is so hot, his hair is beautiful and he is just to die for. These boys stand out from other boybands because they’re young, cute and their music is easy to get into,” sophomore Abigail Cleary said.

Disney movies were part of everyone’s childhood. Their animated classics are a worldwide success that makes kids wish they could go to Wonderland with Alice, be like Cinderella and marry a Prince or talk to every household object just like Belle does in the movie Beauty and the Beast. In the past couple of years, remaking animated movies with real people instead of cartoons has become a new trend for movie producers and directors.

“They remake movies because it’s cool to have a different perspective and also to see real people playing those characters not only cartoons,” senior Abby Cottom said.

These are a few recent examples of the trend.

Style of music: “Classic rock and 70’s because it has a great beat, and I can get in a groove with it.”

“Tom Sawyer” by Rush “I love the sound of it.”

“Long Time” by Boston “I love the sound of the song.”

“Yesterday” by Foreigner “It reminds me of someone I used to know.”

Alice in Wonderland

The 3-D remake of the classic movie came out in 2010 directed

by Tim Burton, starring the Australian Mia Wasikowska as Alice, Johnny Depp as The Hatter and Anne Hathaway as the White Queen. The film is based on the novels “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland” and “Through the Looking-Glass” written by Lewis Carroll.

The movie was ranked as the second highest grossing film of 2010 and the ninth highest grossing film of all time earning $1,024,299,904 worldwide. The movie’s soundtrack was called Almost Alice and included artists and bands like Avril Lavigne, 3OH!3 and Franz Ferdinand. After it was released, the film received positive and negative reviews, but it won several awards like the Oscar for Best Art Direction and the Teen Choice Awards for Best Fight.

“If I could remake a Disney movie, I would remake ‘Alice in Wonderland,’ even though it was already remade I would make it more like the original,” junior Paul Guilfoyle said.

“Fooling Yourself” by Styx “It’s a feel-good song.”

Photo by Graylock/Abaca Press/MCT. Used with permission

Lily Collins arrives at the premiere of “Mirror Mirror.” Collins plays Snow White, who tries to survive her stepmother’s mistreatments after her dad’s death.

Mirror Mirror

The first “Snow White” remake has the same plot as the original written by the Brothers Grimm. The most remarkable difference is that the story is told from the evil Queen’s perspective, which makes it more interesting for the spectators.

The main characters are played by Lily Collins (Snow White) and Julia Roberts (Queen Clementianna). The film was released on March 30.

“Disney knows how popular their movies are, so they remade to make more money, which it seems to be working well for them,” Guilfoyle said.

Robin Hood

The film tells Robin Hood’s story before he became a legend.

After being betrayed by the King Richard I, he fakes his identity to go back to his homeland in England. Using this new identity, Robin Hood starts giving the exaggerated amount of taxes collected by the Prince back to the poor. The main character is played by Russell Crowe. Cate Blanchett is also part of the cast. The movie’s premiere was in May 12, 2010 at the Cannes Film Festival.

Enchanted Photo by Courtesy Disney Enterprises, Inc./MCT. Used with permissison.

Mia Wasikowska stars in “Alice in Wonderland.” The movie is a mix of real and computer-animated characters.

Snow White and the Huntsman

Photo provided by Live Nation Entertainment.

In this movie the main difference from the original story is Snow White, who instead of being sensitive and defenseless girl, is a fighter and rebellious young woman. Played by Kristen Stewart, the Princess tries to bring down her stepmother Queen Ravenna, played by Charlize Theron. The film is set to be released June 1.

The musical “Enchanted” is a tribute to Disney animated classics, like “Snow White”, “Cinderella”, “Sleeping Beauty” and many others, starring Amy Adams as Princess Gisele and Patrick Dempsey as a New York attorney who falls in love with Gisele. The movie had good reviews and was well received by the public when it was released in November 21, 2007. The film directed by Kevin Lima got nominated to the 65th Golden Globes.

“They remake Disney movies because they’re classics and never get old,” junior Dasha Tarasova said.

“Can you feel it?” by Jackson 5 “It’s a very exciting and peppy song, and I love the brass in it.”

What’s stuck in senior Haleigh DeRose’s head?

Style of music: “I would have to say that my favorite style of music is rap. Do you get it?”

“Call Me Maybe” by Carly Rae Jepsen “I like this song because it’s catchy.”

“Starships” by Nicki Minaj “This song reminds me of spring break with all of my friends.”

“All Around the World” by Mac Miller “My friends always say this is our theme song.”

“Boyfriend” by Justin Bieber “It’s the only Justin Bieber song I like.”

“Ayy Girl” by Tyga “The song is fun and upbeat, which reminds me of dancing.”

If you’d like to tell us what songs are stuck in your head, e-mail a list of five songs and your comments to ramparts@hpsk12.net

14

Sports

April 2012

Holt High School Ramparts

Sports spring into early season expectations April starts a new season and players look ahead to May

Girls Track-

Mike Hua Cody Shattuck

section editors As the weather changes, the spring brings in the sports for the new season. Rosters change up with new faces and returning teammates.

What makes this year better than the rest is the teams’ confidence and chemistry, along with the expectations that they hold.

Photo by Jade Minor

Running the Holt hurdle relay, junior Damien Williamson jumps over the obstacle in hopes to win the race. The meet was against Grand Ledge , Sexton, Everett and East Lansing on April 12.

Boys Track-

Preseason: “We have a young team and everyone is getting

Photo by Aaron Mull

Playing defense during the March 27 game against Forest Hills Central, sophomore Paul Schalau and junior Eric Sundstrom wait for the opposing player to come their way.

Boys Lacrosse-

Preseason: “We did really well. Made it

to the regional finals and finished first in the conference. Hopefully we can make a run,” senior Jacob Zajac said.

Coaches: Mike VanAntwerp, Ryan DeClercq, Kyle Harbon, Breden Hunt Preparaton: “During the season we do drills and game situations,” senior Tobin Egger said.

“As a team, we have workouts along with some senior led practices. For me I play on travel teams.”

Team captains: Tobin Egger, Stevie McKee, Alex Hrapkiewicz, Ben Majeske and Jacob Zajac.

Expectations: Work hard at practice and even harder against the teams during games.

To win and make it to the playoffs and to States.

“A main focus of the team is to make it to the playoffs,” senior Jacob Zajac said. “We want to win it all.”

Record: Last year: 15-6, Current: 6-2

much better. Last year we had an experienced team that carried us,” senior Evan Harless said.

Coaches: Jack Rarick, Dave Foy, Lisa Ernst, Brian Melville, Ross Malintinsky Preparation: Running and working out in the weight room.

Getting ready for the meets that are coming up.

“We have team workouts that are not mandatory but recommended during and before the season starts,” sophomore Jesse TenHove said.

Expectations: To win and to do the best as a team and individually.

“The coaches expect us to give 110 percent of ourselves every day during practice and at the meets,” TenHove said.

Record: Last year: Not available, Current: 1-1 Next Meet: May 1 at East Lansing/Jackson

Competition that may be difficult:

“Some difficult teams that we could potentially face are the Grand Rapids teams and the Detroit teams because they have had longer running programs than us,” Egger said.

Next Game: May 1 at home against East Lansing

Photo by Maci Palmer

Starting catcher senior Grant VanLiew waits for the ball to come to his mitt to get the final out of the inning against Eaton Rapids.

Preseason: “We placed fourth in the conference with a young team.

We’re confident and prepared to beat the teams in our conference,” junior Elizabeth Haubert said.

Coaches: Pam Stafford, Dave Foy, Lisa Ernst, Brian Melville, and Ross Malintinsky.

Preparation: Team workouts over the winter, and a couple of weeks of practices at the beginning of the season.

Some weight lifting, core workouts, running.

Expectations: Hard work, punctuality, positive attitude and good sportsmanship for every member. To win and reach full potential as individuals and as a team.

Record: Last year: 3-3, Current: 1-1 Competition that may be difficult: Grand Ledge, East Lansing and Okemos, with East Lansing being the bigger competition.

“Personally, I’ve been running and working out all winter,” Haubert said.

“I also have to deal with a repetitive injury which has introduced me to alternative workouts other than just running. During the winter the team also works out together along with a couple weeks of hard-core practice at the beginning of the year.”

Next Meet: May 1 at East Lansing/Jackson

Sports

15

Holt High School Ramparts

April 2012

Girls Lacrosse-

Preseason: “We took big strides and are prepared to take even bigger strides. We placed fifth in the conference last year,” senior Jenna Payne said.

Coaches: Head Coach Paul Carr and assistant coach Dirk Payne Preparation: “People are stepping up and keeping focused because we all want to be more respectable,” senior Emily Zimmer said.

Team Captains: Jenna Payne, Lauren Maier, and Lauren MacEachern Goals: “My goals are to beat East Lansing and compete with teams like Battle Creek Central because they’re always close matches,” Payne said.

Record: Last year: 10-12-1, Current: 2-2-1 Rivals/Biggest Game: East Lansing Final Words: “Look for the improvement of girls lacrosse,” Maier said.

Next Game: May 1 at East Lansing

Photo by Jade Minor

Preseason: “I was not satisfied with how we did because we didn’t play

to our potential,” senior Justin Alleman said. “We finished second in the conference and got to the championship game of the Diamond Classic. We are aiming to go further this year.”

Coaches: Nate Potts, Mark Roach, Scott Cochran, Scott Berman and Bob McHenry.

Preparation: Practice for the team is from 5:30 to 7 p.m. No practice on the weekends. The team also hits the day before a game and practices when they have a two-day break.

Expectations: For the team to go above and beyond. Playing to their full potential and making it to states is a goal.

“A main focus is to be a team and get along with each other to win more games.

One goal we have is to win the Diamond Classic and go and win states,” senior Travis Potter said.

Record: Last year: 20-8, Current: 9-0 Difficult competition: “Some difficult or hard competition this year could be Grand Ledge because they always have a deep pitching rotation,“ senior Jordan Mata said. “It’s good and they are going to be tough because they’re always tough. It’s at Holt this year, so we will need everyone there to support and cheer us on.”

“I expect for us to win states with the talent we have, along with the fact that most of our varsity team has played competitive baseball in the summer,” Mata said. “As a team we really care about this season because we know we can do it and win states.”

Next Game: April 30 at Everett

Preseason: “We were expected to place first in the

Photo by Clara Swihart

Tossing the ball up, junior Cara Orth readies herself for a serve.

She practices against a teammate to prepare for games.

conference last year and we made it to the Gold Cup,” senior Skylen Powell said. “Even though we lost during districts, we are a much closer team and hope to win this year.”

Coaches: Head coach Aaron Smith and assistant coach Matt Trunk Preparation: “As a team, we conditioned at MSU with a fitness trainer and did more team bonding so we could get to know each other,” Powell said.

Team Captains: Skylen Powell, Jenny McClumpha, Gabi Corbi and Emma Webster.

Goals:“The team’s goal is to make it far in playoffs and place first in the conference,” Ammon said.

Record: Last year: 11-6-3, Current: 3-2 Rivals/Biggest Game: Okemos Final Words: “Watch out for the young players this year.”

Ammon said.

Next Game: April 28 at home against Lansing Christian

Girls Tennis-

Performing the pole vault sophomore Sarah Shaffer leaps over the bar to land on the other side during the Grand Ledge, Sexton, Everett and East Lansing on April 12.

Baseball-

Girls Soccer-

Photo by Samantha TenHove

Playing defense, senior Ally Caldwell goes toe to toe with her opponent to try and get the ball during the Battle Creek game at home.

Preseason: “We placed fourth in the conference and fought hard during regionals. Hopefully we can improve and win or place third or higher this year,” senior Alexis Pridgen said.

Coaches: Head Coach Pat Somers and assistant coaches Jim and Sue Powers Preparation: “The team played at the MAC all winter long, and individually we ran and conditioned,” junior Sanda Vazgec said.

Team Captains: All of the seniors Alexis Pridgen, Haley Powers, Lizzie McKerr, Lea Schafer, Audra Bacarcel Goals: “My goal for the team is to at least finish third in the conference and make it as far as we can, even to states,” Pridgen said.

Record: Last Year: 4-7-3, Current: 3-0-1 Rivals/Biggest Game: Okemos and East Lansing Final Words: “Come watch some great tennis in a fun atmosphere,” Vazgec said.

Next Game: April 30 at Haslett High School

Softball-

Boys Golf-

Preseason: “Our team has lots of talent this year and the

chemistry is great. It should overall be a good year,” senior Lauryn Stubblefield said.

Coaches: Kim Reichard, Kiera Leitz, Abby Malloy, Suzie Hull Preparation: “I take what the coaches tell me and practice at home,” Stubblefield said. “We practice every day from 3 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. We do situation drills and other drills to strengthen fundamentals.”

Team Captains: Lauryn Stubblefield, Jazmin Bird, Haley McFarland, Anna Pavlik and Erin Chapman. To be great leaders and set examples.

Goals: To give it our all and to have fun doing it. And to win.

“The coaches expect us to do our best and to have a positive attitude all the time,” Stubblefield said.

Record: Last year: 24-9, Current: 5-5 Final Words: “The more people that we have cheering us on, the more hardcore we get on the field, and we do better,” Stubblefield said.

Next Game: April 30 at Everett

Photo by Clara Swihart

Freshman Tara Leirman has an early role on the team. As she dribbles down the field, she looks to pass or shoot to score.

Preseason: “ We went to regionals last year and finshed second in the conference,” senior Alex Sanford said.

Coaches: Head Coach Doug Harkema Preparation: “In the winter, we went to the golf dome to hit

Photo by Clara Swihart

Pitching during the Eaton Rapids game, junior Erin Chapman winds up the ball for the second game of the season.

balls every Sunday and we’ve all been reading psychological golf books to prepare mentally,” senior Trent Tuttle said.

Expectations: “I expect Holt to be the conference champs and go far in the playoffs toward a state title,” Tuttle said.

Positions: Trent Tuttle, Ryan Polin, Austin Carr, and Zach Dowling (one to four ranked, but six players are brought to hit and the best four scores are combined as the team’s score.)

Goals: “One of our goals is to win every tournament we’re in because it’ll prepare us for playoffs,” Tuttle said.

Record: Last year: Not Available, Current: 2-1 Rivals/Biggest Game: Grand Ledge and Okemos Final Words: “Watch out for the fifth and sixth ranked guys because they can perform just as well as anyone else on the team,” Tuttle said.

Next Game: May 2 at Grand Ledge

Sports

April 2012

Holt High School Ramparts

Teams hoop for a chance at the champions NBA players head to playoffs in hopes of becoming champs Zahra Ahmad

staff writer Legendary players such as Kareem Abdul Jabbar, Magic Johnson and Michael Jordan have shaped the National Basketball Association (NBA). With memorable plays and incredible victories, players today have a lot to live up to.

Each player was part of a team that showed the world that basketball was a sport that never guarantees a win.

The finals are played between the winners of the Eastern and Western conference finals.

The championship ends the season and the winning teams is awarded the Larry O’Brien Championship Trophy.

Opinions on what it takes to get to the champions have differed. Sophomore Khadeja Anthony shared her thoughts on who will make it to the champs.

“I think that the Oklahoma Thunder and the Miami Heat will make it this year,” Anthony said. “The Thunder is doing really good this year and the Heat have a really strong defense.”

Predictions have been made that the Thunder, Bulls and Heat will make it to the championships, but reasons differ. Most can conclude that defense plays a large role in a strong team.

“The Miami Heat has so much talent and play

Don’t Miss This

Photo by Rose Palmisano/Orange County Register/MCT, Wally Skalij/Los Angeles Times/MCT, Errol Anderson/Newsday/MCT

L.A. Lakers player Pau Gasol, L.A Clippers player Blake Griffin and MVP Chicago Bulls player Derrick Rose battle for a chance at the championships after the Western and Eastern finals. the best defense in the Eastern conference,” is just as important as how the teams work junior Cullen Smith says. “As for the Oklahoma together. Everyone is keeping an eye out the Thunder, they are playing the best in the NBA for the Heat’s Big Three. The Big Three is made right now, and they have a great offense with up of the Heat’s best players: Lebron James, two dominant players, Kevin Durant and Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh. “ The Big Three are all ver y talented Russell Westbrook.”

Heat and Thunder are dominating the NBA, individually, but when the they play together but predictions of the Bulls making it to the it’s incredible and they’re all very experienced championships proved that they aren’t leaving so they know what they’re doing,” Smith said.

All three teams have strengths that have the competition without a fight.

“The Chicago Bulls are consistent with the taken them far within the NBA. Even great fast break scoring,” junior Kyle Mandiville said. teams have weaknesses. Each team has a “This team has the ability to run the whole weakness that may hold them back from either making it to the finals or winning the court.”

What a player brings individually to the team championships.

Girls Tennis April 30

Girls varsity tennis will play away at 4 p.m. against Haslett High School.

Softball April 30

Varsity softball will play away at 4 p.m. against Everett High School.

Baseball April 30

Varsity baseball will play away at 4 p.m. against Everett High School.

Boys Lacrosse May 1

16

Boys varsity lacrosse play at home against East Lansing High School at 7:30 p.m.

“Heat’s weakness would be having other players stepping up and being able to close the game strong,” Smith said. “Thunder’s would have to be sharing the ball and the struggle with getting their bigger men the ball.”

As for the Bulls, they are not an exception to weaknesses. The team’s consistent injuries may cost them more than just a few games.

“The Bulls are a great team, but their best player, Derrick Rose, is always injured in some way and that really affects the game. It throws the team off,” Mandiville said.

The season is not only surrounded with teams that have always dominated but also teams that have made a name for themselves this year. A previously unknown team, the L.A. Clippers have earned a name for themselves as a top five team in the Western conference.

“The Clippers were an okay team, but they got a free agent Chris Paul, who has made the team great,” Smith said. “They also have one of the best forwards, Blake Griffin. They’ve played well together and turned the entire team around.”

The team who will win the championship is never a safe bet.

“I’d have to say the Miami Heat is going to win the championship this year. The Big 3 is looking for redemption from last year’s loss,” Smith said, “There’s a saying ‘defense wins the championships’ and they have a great defense, they also have two of the top five players in the NBA.” The NBA championship will be held after the Western and Eastern conferences.