Ramparts News

ramparts Holt High School

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

Volume 21, Issue 2

NOVEMBER 2012

Paddle to the Metal The Pingpong club comes to HHS page 4

Senior Andrew Middleton returns a shot to his opponent during a singles match at the Pingpong club. The club meets after school on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

Photo by Nadia Gedeon

News:

The H-Town Store raises money and awareness for Muscular Dystrophy.

PAGE 2

News:

Students solve realworld problems at the Model UN.

PAGE 5

Feature:

Get ready for Black Friday with our tips for success.

PAGE 8

HOT SPOT:

Check out all the books made into movies this year.

PAGE 12

Sports:

Look at the careers of Holt athletes after they left HHS.

PAGE 16

2

NOVEMBER 2012

F.Y.I.

HOLIDAY CHOIR CONCERT

News

Holt High School Ramparts

“Operation TakeOne” takes off

All classes will be hosting a concert on Tuesday, December 14. It will begin at 7 p.m. in the Margaret Livensparger Theater.

The concert will be free of charge.

Senior launches feelgood campaign to impact students

RAMPARTS YEARBOOK

Cody Worden

The 2012-13 yearbooks will be in full color. The cost is $70. No extra yearbooks will be ordered, so get your order in by Friday, December 19. All orders go to adviser Clara Swihart in room W205.

HOLT TREE LIGHTING

Delhi Township will conduct its 17th Annual Tree Lighting on December 5, at 6:30, at the Holt Library. Join your friends, family and the Holt Community to celebrate the holidays together as a town. Santa Claus will be making an appearance.

HOLIDAY BAND CONCERT

The holiday band concert is December 6 at 7 p.m. in the Margaret Livensparger Theater.

The ninth grade band, Concert Band and Symphonic Band will be performing their renditions of popular holiday songs, including “Sleigh Ride.”

HOLT FOOD DRIVE

NHS will be hosting a food drive December 1 through December 7. On December 7, NHS members will be collecting all donated items that afternoon. Items should be non-perishable, like canned food. All donations will be taken to the Holt Food Bank.

QUIZ BOWL WINTER SEASON

The Quiz Bowl team, coming off a second place finish in its fall CAAC season, is looking for new members of any grade to join the team for the winter Tri-County League in January. Any interested student can report to E113 on any Tuesday or Wednesday from 2:45-4p.m.

JOIN THE LINKS

Any student interested in being a Link can report to E103 on December 12 at 9:45 a.m. to learn more about being a Link and becoming one for the second semester.

entertainment editor Posters and signs cling to the walls of the school, saying different messages and all for good causes, but one catches the eye. One has tabs hanging off it with little inspirational notes to make students feel important. The campaign is called, “Operation: Take 1” created by senior Mallory Chrisman.

Some may not notice the posters because most get torn down, but there are still a few left up.

People may not know what they are for, but most can tell they are there to help people get through their days.

“They (people) can look at them, and know they are not alone in the school,” senior Ashlyn Johnson said.

Chrisman is part of the Gay-Straight Alliance, which also does a lot with making students feel important, and anti-bullying, but Chrisman took it one step further.

“It’s not just a focus on gay rights, it’s a focus on how students feel and how we can help,” Chrisman said.

Photo by Cody Worden

Chrisman said she has had a history with bullying and having depression herself. She is aware of the feelings it gives you.

“The main reason I made it is because when I had depression I had no one, and I don’t want that to happen to others. I just want to help people who need help,” Chrisman said.

According to stopbullying.gov, bullying can be described as unwanted, aggressive behavior among school aged children that involves a real or perceived power imbalance. The behavior is repeated, or has the potential to be repeated, over time. Also meaning someone calling someone names, throwing things at them, and/or harming them to make them feel less of a person. Many think bullying should stop.

“Kids shouldn’t be bullied, you don’t realize how words/actions can affect someone until you mature, and grow past it, and/or talk to kids who have been bullied,” senior Zachary Walsh said.

When a person is bullied they feel like they lose their self-worth and make them want to commit suicide or self-harm. This campaign can help make students feel more important.

“If others have confidence then others will look up to them,” Chrisman said.

If it were not for groups and campaigns making people feel important they may lose their productive sides.

“I feel like if not just kids and students, but everyone else feels important, they will be more productive citizens,” Walsh said.

Chrisman said she has Faceboook page called “Operation TakeOne” .

“Everyone is unique in their own little way. They should be comfortable the way they are,” Chrisman said. “I wanted to go out with a bang and leave my mark because a lot of people know me for different

School store gives back to people with MD H-Town fights for the cure and gives back to the community Kayla Lovely news editor For people with muscular dystrophy, bills stack up, muscles give out, and there is only one organization to help fund the research of the disease. The Muscular Dystrophy Fund helps a parent pay those large bills, and creates confidence to help children get back on their feet, and give them hope that a cure will be found.

Muscular dystrophy (MD) is a serious muscle disorder that can be passed on through generations.

People with MD cannot make enough protein for healthy muscles.

The H-Town School Store is raising money for MD. They will be going to Distributive Education Clubs of America (DECA), which is a conference they go to every year for their Retail Management class. DECA sponsors MD, and the schools that attend the DECA conference each year raise money in their school to donate to MD. “It feels good to give back to people,” senior Caroline Fredline said. “It’s really important to donate to others.”

Students can donate in the school store at any time until Christmas break. Donations are accepted

any time that the store is open or directly to business teacher Dan Knechtel in room W103.

The store is also planning different events to help spark student interests. In October the student store gave cut-outs of footballs to those who donated.

Students could pick between The University of Michigan or Michigan State University. It was a contest to see who had the most fans.

The money raised will go directly to the MD foundation to benefit kids with the disorder.

“Students should donate to MD because not very many people know about the disorder and it is very expensive to the families with a member who has the disorder,” Knechtel said.

Knechtel started this fundraiser and says the store has raised around $340. Their goal is $1,000.

“It was time (everyone) did something to give back to people,” Knechtel said.

Donating to a cause also helps people feel better about themselves, and according to Knechtel, will teach them a life lesson.

“I want kids to have a community obligation to give back instead of always taking,” Knechtel said.

Senior Harold Lobbins said the store is raising money towards equipment and care that children with MD will need to enjoy their life.

Another way to raise more money the store will hold competitions within the classroom. Whoever raises the most money will win a prize from the school store. “(To raise more money for the cause) we need to make sure we’re being proficient and promoting a good cause,” Lobbins said.

News

3

Holt High School Ramparts

Ninth Grade Campus goes green Energy initiative saves thousands for district Noah Goldblatt sports editor Many students driving down Holt Road in the morning may be wondering what is going on with the tower looking device, and the thing that looks like a garage sitting next to the Ninth Grade Campus.

The wind turbine, and solar panels at the Ninth Grade Campus, are the new attractions, and environmentally friendly power conductors in Holt.

These new machines are collectively known as the Renewable Energy Education Center. They are part of a larger energy initiative program that started almost two years ago and is taking its largest steps now in 2012.

“Both systems are connected to the power grid at the Ninth Grade Campus and partially offset its power use,” Facilities Management Supervisor Jonathan T. Hall said.

These two new fixtures at the ninth grade campus are two of the largest parts of the energy initiative.

This initiative, which was 100 percent funded by Consumers Energy rebates from the Energy Initiative,

also included new programs like motion sensors in the gym and classrooms, which shut off the lights when no one is in the classroom to save power.

It also created programs to convert steam to hot water heat at two buildings in the district.

A new Energy Management program that controls all of the HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) equipment in the district is in place so the maintenance staff can set schedules and diagnose and solve problems, all from a computer screen.

The new windmill and solar panels are some of the most important parts of this energy program, and can power up to 22 fluorescent light fixtures, which has saved the school $800,000 in electrical costs, Hall said.

Wind turbines and solar panels are two of the most efficient ways to generate power without the use of fossil fuels, and both will not harm the planet or the atmosphere.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, wind turbines work in a way that’s the opposite of a fan.

Instead of using electricity to create wind, turbines harness the power of wind and use it to create electricity.

The wind turns the blades, which spins a shaft in the turbine, which connects to a generator and creates electricity for the school.

Abby Cousineau staff writer

Photo by Kayla Lovely

The school store is keeping track on how much money they are making for the research of MD. They have raised $340 toward a $1,000 goal.

What is left behind in the commons after lunch is not a pretty sight. Trash and food remains are scattered throughout the whole area, and while students are in their classrooms, custodians are left to clean up the mess.

Holt Public Schools, like many other school districts in Michigan, has had to make a lot of budget cuts recently due to state funding cuts.

They are looking to save money any way possible. One way HPS has saved money is by making some adjustments to the custodial staff.

In June, the district made the

decision to privatize Holt’s custodial services. This initiated the process of hiring new custodial workers over from a private company whenever custodians quit or retire.

Although these changes have the potential to save the district up to $1.2 million, changes like these have made it more challenging for the custodial staff, according to HHS Head Custodian Drew Dziachan.

“The job isn’t getting done as well as it could because the new employees have less experience, and they don’t care about the building or the community like Holt employees do,” Dziachan said.

Ac c o rd i ng t o Fa c i l i t i e s Management Supervisor Jon Hall, the district has also tried to save money by reducing the amount of supplies being used and by limiting the number of full-time custodians districtwide. By this school year, the full-time custodial staff in the district had been reduced by seven.

In Brief Dance Team

The Dance team is spending time with Holt elementary and middle school girls through a free dance clinic. They will also be performing on Thanksgiving at the Detroit Lions half time show. The team is starting to practice for half time shows for the winter basketball season as well.

The first game is not until December 4, so until then they are busy at work in the Black Box room, practicing for their performances.

Girls are Powerful Club

Photo by Noah Goldblatt

The solar panel and wind turbine at the Ninth Grade Campus are part of the Renewable Energy Education Center. These fixtures were completely paid for by Consumers Energy and they are expected to save thousands.

Solar panels work by taking the efficient systems.

Students like junior Devinn power of the sun and using it to create energy, says Scientific American Lovette seem to support the new energy efficient features at the Ninth Magazine.

Sunlight hits certain materials on Grade Campus.

“It’s been shown that they pay the solar panels, like silicone crystals, and the energy of the sun is turned for themselves, so I think it’s a good into an electrical current, which can thing,” Lovette said.

Freshmen, who are directly then be used in the school.

This program was started by Hall, impacted by the new program, agree.

“It’s a cool program because in cooperation with Millennium Energy, an energy consulting we’re saving money on power by firm based in Okemos that helps generating wind and solar power businesses and institutions design here,” freshman Nick Nastally said. and operate compatible, energy

Custodial cuts impact cleanliness District decides to privatize custodians

November 2012

Cutting back custodians’ hours has also saved money. Custodians’ hours have been cut by a half hour a day. With shorter work days and a less-experienced staff, custodians don’t have enough time to complete certain tasks every day.

Tasks that custodians used to do in past years that no longer get done as frequently anymore include dusting, and the cleaning of windows and teacher’s white boards.

“More is being asked of all of us, and it’s hard because we constantly have to stop and explain how to do things for certain employees,” Dziachan said.

English teacher Jennifer Jones said that she sees more trash lying around the school and that simple things, like vacuuming, that used to get done on a daily basis have been postponed and are now getting done only a few times a week.

“Our classrooms only get cleaned once or twice a week and we have to

clean our own white boards now,” Jones said. “I think the custodians are doing a great job for how big the school is and for how few of them there are, but students need to be more responsible.”

Many students don’t clean up their mess after lunch, but instead leave it to the custodians to do so. Although a lot of students leave messes behind, they don’t think that custodians should have to clean up such a mess either.

“It is the custodians’ job to clean up, but it is not their job to clean up everything. Students really need to start being more accountable,” junior Jake Thompson said.

Dziachan agrees that students need to start taking more responsibility and clean up after themselves.

“If students just cared about the building and threw away their own trash, it would make our jobs so much easier,” Dzaichan said.

EVE (End Violent Encounters) hosts a Girls Are Powerful (GAP) group after school. Teen girls talk about self-esteem, body image, gender roles, and more. GAP is held on Wednesdays from 2:45-4 p.m. until December 5. The meetings typically last for 90 minutes. All girls are welcome. Feel free to join anytime, see counselor Rebecca Fedrigo in the Guidance Office.

Variety Show

Holt’s third annual Variety show was held Tuesday, November 13th. Acts included such things as dancers, singers, rappers, instrumentalists, and more. Admission tickets were five dollars a piece. 247 people attended, raising a total of $1,235.

The money raised went to help funding the annual Challenge Day.

Craft Show

A craft show was held on Saturday, November 17 at the high school. There were about 45 vendors in attendance. All the proceeds raised from selling tables went to help fund Challenge Day. The craft show raised about $1,750 for Challenge Day. Between the Variety Show and the craft show, Student Success Coordinator Joann Weil raised about $3,000.

Biology teacher wins award

Biology teacher Heather Peterson traveled to Dallas, Texas on October 31. She attended the National Association of Biology Teachers annual conference. While in Texas, Peterson picked up her award on November 3, after being named the Michigan Biology Teacher of the Year this past spring. She was recognized with teachers from all over the country.

News

4

November 2012

Holt High School Ramparts

News

5

Holt High School Ramparts

November 2012

Pingpong club hits big with students The start of a new club brings students closer together Nadia Gedeon

staff writer The Pingpong club is a place where students can get together, get to know each other and play the sport that they all enjoy.

The team competes in tournaments against each other to see who is the best.

Two junior students, Christian Gibson and Karan Kakar, founded the club this month. They said they felt that it was important to start this club because it gives students a chance to meet new people that all share a common interest.

“Pingpong club helps people to make new friends, and I just wanted to start a club,” Kakar said.

Gibson has experience with the sport and has also, like Kakar, put his time and energy into starting the club for students to have a new environment to hang out.

“I have been playing pingpong for like seven years, and me and Karan thought that students needed something fun to do after school,” Gibson said.

Social studies teacher Russ Olcheske is supervising the club.

“I started playing pingpong when I was ten in a friend’s basement, and I played all through college,” Olcheske said.

To join the club students must pay $10. By charging students to join, the club will use the money to buy tables, paddles and balls.

The sport requires many different techniques. The three main techniques are the spin, the backhand and the forehand.

By using these techniques it makes it more difficult for the opponent to return the hit.

The club had a big turnout at its first meeting November 5.

Over a hundred people showed up. Many of the students had also paid the fee to become an official member of the club. More people are still planning on joining because it is not a game you have to have experience with, and that appeals to students.

Junior Sarah Hua, a newcomer in the club decided to join because she enjoys after school activities.

“I joined Pingpong club because I played tennis and it was a lot of fun, so I thought pingpong would be like tennis, and

Photo by Zahra Ahmad

Model United Nations members sophomore Ellen Weise and senior Melanie Kroll sell Quality Dairy donuts at nutrition break for $1 each to raise money. The club plans to travel to Harvard University for a conference in January.

Model UN to visit Harvard Photo by Nadia Gedeon

Junior Trevor Hartley returns his shot against his opponent at the Pingpong club’s first practice. The whole club has been striving to become better pingpong players. To do this they practice against one another. The club practices three days out of the week.

I’m looking forward to hanging out with my friends,” Hua said.

The founders of the club are hoping that it will continue throughout the years.

“Hopefully after me and Christian are gone somebody else will take over,” Kakar said.

Olcheske is also hoping that this club will continue due to the success from this year.

“We’ll see how this year goes and will hopefully still continue it in the future,” Olcheske said.

Olcheske is also continuing to encourage students to join the club, hoping to have a lot more members by the end of this year and continue this club into the next year.

Pingpong Club Info

• Teacher: Russ Olcheske • Where: Center commons • Practice: Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday after school • Cost: $10 to join

Club sells donuts for conference Zahra Ahmad

editor-in-chief “Cartin Martin’s” doughnuts can be seen being sold in the center commons during nutrition break.

Model United Nations advisor Corey Martin sells these doughnuts to raise money for their budget and their upcoming trip to Harvard University in Cambridge, Mass.

Model UN is a simulation of the United Nations where students are given the opportunity to solve real world issues. The members of Model UN will be going to Harvard on January 31 to attend a competition with other schools from across the nation.

Students who participate in Model UN are given the opportunity to act as if they are a part of the United Nations.

Each school is assigned a country and then becomes a member of a committee with three international issues to discuss. Issues range from topics like child soldiers to drug trafficking.

“Model UN basically teaches us how to solve the world’s issues, teaches us how international relations work and how to work with other countries,” senior Micah Norwood said.

The trip to Harvard will cost $400-

500 per student. The money made from doughnut sales goes partially to help with the Harvard trip, and the rest of the profits are added on to the club’s overall budget for conferences.

The Harvard trip is meant to give students a conference experience outside of Michigan.

“Harvard has the country’s oldest Model UN conference. There are three events in a conference in Boston. There are also global events.

Harvard is known for Model UN,” Martin said.

The club often goes to Michigan State University for many conferences, but they have an upcoming trip to Northwestern University in Evanston, Ill. Often these trips are not out of state.

“We just had a recent trip to Wayne State, and we have another one going to Northwestern. Most of our conferences are nearby, though, like the ones to MSU,” Norwood said.

Besides going on trips and working with one another, Model UN is meant to teach students issues that occur around the world, and gives them a chance to think of solutions to certain problems. Club members said they have learned a lot from participation in Model UN. “I’ve basically learned how countries are able to work with one another on issues that are brought up to the United Nations,” senior Erin Chapman said. “It’s just the lesson of how to compromise with other countries and cooperate with their decisions.”

This club is meant to promote an academic experience. Martin explains why Model UN is important to him.

“I enjoy it a lot. I wish I had this opportunity when I was in high school,” Martin said. “This is all to encourage people to think about issues that we face as global citizens, and foster a greater sense of humanity.”

If students still want to join they can go to Martin and talk to him about joining. The club is not exclusive and Martin will give students all the information including updates on upcoming conferences. However, they would have to be willing to put in time and effort in the club.

“There’s a lot of work outside of school, like research and position papers. Also, we meet every Monday after school for practice,” Norwood said.

This is an academic club. All meetings and conferences are meant to be fun but also educational. Those who take part in the club should leave with new understanding of global issues and affairs.

“Model UN is important to me because in terms of extra-curricular activities in Holt, there are not enough that are intellectual. Students need the opportunity to take part in things that are creative,” Martin said. “We need to promote critical examination.

I’m not against sports, I just feel we need more activities that challenge students in thinking and leave them with a broader sense of the world.”

6

Viewpoints

Novemeber 2012

Holt High School Ramparts

Our View

Anti-bullying campaign gives confidence

T

he “You Are Not Alone” posters around the school have sparked interest in many students. The colorful papers have tabs with inspiring sayings written on them.

Some say “You are not alone,” “You are pretty,” “You are strong,” and “You are handsome.” Many students take a tab, and smile, realizing that the tab in their hand is true.

Senior Mallory Chrisman and three of her friends (who wanted to be left anonymous) launched this anti-bullying campaign to help the students who may not feel good about themselves, are depressed or think they are not attractive.

We at Ramparts think this campaign will help many students who need it.

Any that are feeling depressed can look at that slip of paper to remember that they are not alone, and that there is someone out there that cares about them.

It could also serve as a confidence booster to anyone who is feeling down about themselves. The tabs could be put anywhere that the student looks every day for a quick reminder that they are beautiful not only on the outside, but inside as well.

Some students, however, may not take it seriously. Some of Ramparts staff has personally seen students take a tab and laugh at it, or have even seen students give one to a classmate as a joke. We feel that that this anti-bullying campaign should be taken more seriously because some students need to be told by somebody that someone cares.

These posters are giving anonymous help to those who need it and ensuring that students can have confidence that someone will always be there for them. We think that these posters should continue to show up around the school to help those who need a confidence boost every once in a while.

What’s up, Consumption?

Generation needs to change consumer mentality

Rachel Dillingham

C

lutter is cool. Stuff is what ma ke s a c o o l k i d , k- 1 2 , “popular”. It’s common sense: owning seven pairs of boots will keep our feet seven times warmer than one pair. One snap-back would not fit our heads as well as 6 different snapbacks could.

Shopping is therapy for the heart.

We work to spend money on stuff.

Then we work more hours for more spending money. We dedicate our time to jobs. In return we can have the “IT” trend.

Who cares if that “IT” sweater will hang in the closet going unworn or that IPod/iPhone that was so carelessly dropped (but still works)

Your View

ramparts Editors in Chief:

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

Adviser:

Zahra Ahmad Zack Gilliland Kayla Lovely Hannah Marsh Maya Fews Cody Worden Noah Goldblatt Sean Bulkowski, Abby Cousineau, Rachel Dillingham, Nadia Gedeon, Sydney Holmes, Courtney Houser, Anissa Martinez, Stacie Skinker, Kylee Voorhis, Bryce Zippi 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.

Lunch lacks diet-sensitive meals Dear Editor, I don’t know if I’m just the only vegetarian in this school or if the person who created the lunch menu just doesn’t know they exist. But, there is a huge lack of vegetarian and diet-sensitive foods. Being that the school “can’t” do vegetarian meals, it makes it really hard for us to eat during lunch.

Not only do vegetarians struggle, but people with allergies toward gluten, yeast and dairy have a hard time finding a meal at lunch that fits their needs. As a school, they are responsible for feeding us so we can get in our three meals a day. But because people have specific needs, they miss out and have to wait until they get home to eat.

What if they have a school sport or a job directly after school? That means they’d have to go all day without eating until that evening when they got home from their long day. It’s not healthy to skip meals as is, but especially for vegetarians and people with restricting allergies.

Because they don’t get the same amount of nutrients as people who

is sent overseas to sit in landfills, which then releases toxic fumes into the lungs of the third world country?

The advertisements told us to buy it, so we did.

This world revolves around our devices, clothes and cars. We judge a book by its cover as we judge a person by the looks of them. A bubbly personality is unimportant just like the logarithmic equation we learned in math class.

Natural resources are being used to make our wants and desires.

Though our wants seem to be endless, there are not enough resources on the planet to feed our mindless consumption.

The U.S. consumes the majority of the world’s natural resources. The rate of this consumption is so high that we are now required to genetically modify crops to produce more, more and more. Some say if third world countries were to reach our level of mindless consumption, we would need ten planets to survive.

We have one planet. It supplies us with limited resources that we consume at unattainable rates. In other words, we are using up water, oil, land and metal as if the supply

eat meat, glucose, yeast and dairy do. So that one meal could really help add toward vitamins and minerals the body needs to stay healthy.

Ana-Alicia Gomez, senior Not enough time for library use Dear Editor, We have such a beautiful library at our disposal, but very few students use it for more than computer time.

The Holt High School administration should strive to make the library more accessible to its students.

Reading proficiently is an essential skill that should not be diminished by the inconvenience of stopping by the school library.

Students don’t have the time between classes to look at books or check anything out; not when we only have five minutes to get to the other side of school. While the teachers make use of the library lab and the computers, teachers rarely take us to the school library to check out books. Ironically, the library itself is plastered with posters encouraging us to read, but we often lack the time. It is possible to go in during lunch, but we only have 25 minutes to eat and socialize, which

would never run out. But it is running out.

As citizens of the United States, we set the standard of living. The world looks at us in envy. Foreigners want to get out of their dire situations and live the American Dream.

Soon enough we will not be the only ones living life by our standards.

Soon China, Japan and Europe will be competing with us for these limited goods.

Once countries around the world succeed in living the way we currently do there will not be enough natural resources. The predictions of needing a tenth planet to sustain life will come true. Finally, the unbelievable truth will hit us and hit us hard.

L ook towards the future by dedicating your time and effort on environmental friendly habits like riding bike your to school, shopping less or taking your own bags to the grocery store. Other examples include reducing time spent in the shower, turning off the lights when you are done and carpooling.

Silly it may seem, but true it is.

Don’t let the destruction of the earth come from our generation. Get engaged and seek change.

leaves a limited time to visit the library to look at books during lunch.

The solution is easy: encourage the English teachers to take us to the library once a month for the books, not for the computers or the laptops. Our library is filled with multiple resources; fiction and nonfiction books and magazines that the school spends money on, which students rarely get to use.

This is a waste, especially since the higher a student’s reading level, the better their grades and standardized test scores will be. Higher grades and test scores are desirable to administration. But it goes beyond raising student test scores and GPA. High school is meant to prepare us for the next step in our lives, whether that be going to college or job. But for both college -bound and working students, the ability to read and to read well is vital.

Maria Williams, senior

Viewpoints Holt High School Ramparts

Shoppers forget meaning of Thanksgiving holiday Keep the importance of the day in mind

Anissa Martinez

S

uppose you could gain everything in the whole world and lost your soul. Was it worth it?” -Billy Graham Thanksgiving is the one holiday that everyone in your family comes together to give thanks for the life they’ve been given. It’s a holiday where being with your family is the most important.

What else comes to mind during this time of year? BLACK FRIDAY. Everyone is gearing up and looking at the latest items that will be on the shelves the day after Thanksgiving.

Most of the time, Black Friday is the day people get their Christmas shopping done at convenient

prices. People across the country are lined up outside stores at three or four in the morning on a mission to get what they need before anyone else.

A lot of people look forward to a day of crazy, fun shopping, but for others it could be a day they dread.

In 2008 a Wal-Mart worker was trampled to death by Black Friday shoppers. According to one man who was there, after shoppers were told to leave b e caus e an employee had been k i l l e d , people were yelling, “I’ve been in line since yesterday morning!” and they continued to shop.

Consumers’ desperation on Black Friday has reached a whole new level to the point where people will go to any extreme just to get their hands on a $99 Blu-Ray player.

Store hours have a big impact on feisty shoppers wanting to be first in line as well. Most of the large retail chain stores like Wal-Mart,

“

Best Buy, Target, and Kohl’s, all open at midnight or even 9pm this year on Thanksgiving day.

Think of the employees who have to work Black Friday and adjust their Thanksgiving plans to what is probably the worst day of work for them.

There’s nothing wrong with trying to save money and get to these items before everyone else, but you should a l way s c o n s i d e r other people.

Those shoppers that trampled that man to death are probably wondering if it was really worth it. Imagine the day after Thanksgiving, getting a call that one of your relatives is injured or even dead because of the chaos on Black Friday.

Remember what this time of year is all about. It’s Thanksgiving, a time to bond with family and the ones you love. While Black Friday is also a significant part of this month, it’s important to shop safely while grabbing those great deals.

Remember what this time of year is all about.

”

7

November 2012

Hot or not?

Getting sleep:

Being nocturnal:

After a long day of stuffing your face, getting some sleep to be ready for those sales early in the morning sounds perfect.

Pulling an all-nighter on Thanksgiving to be the first one to the sales regardless of your sleep deprivation.

Speak up

What is your most unique tradition for the holidays?

“My dad and brother bake a cake, but they always fail and then we eat the crumbs.”

Abraham Flores, senior

“I still leave milk and cookies for Santa.”

Sasha Scott, junior

“We do karaoke, youngest to oldest, and we have a competition and see who’s the most dramatic or the best.”

Clarissa Fowler, junior

“We have white elephant at Christmas time.”

Sam Foster, junior

“My Grandma cooks us a Thanksgiving dinner for Halloween.”

Jade Minor, senior

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 by Bryce Zippi

In the October issue of Ramparts the following names were mispelled: Aurelio Quintero, Kellie Sweitzer, and Aliana Al-Alam. There was also a quote incorrectly attributed to Ana Gomez. Ramparts regrets these errors. If you are aware of any errors please contact us in room E221 or send an e-mail to ramparts@hpsk12.net.

8

Features

November 2012

Two Cents

Hannah Marsh

An inconsiderate youth Walking down the hallway, it’s a sea of teenagers. Friends, ‘frienemies.’

People we like, and people we don’t.

But regardless of how I feel about you, or your best friend, or your worst enemy, regardless of if I know you or what you stand for, I have an opinion about you. I’ve summed you up in my head, based on a small impression that I’ve had of you.

I admit that that’s wrong. I admit that it’s not fair. But that’s what we do.

We’re human, we make assumptions and form opinions based on first impressions.

We’re young, we don’t know everything. For some reason we think the exact opposite is true.

Teachers aren’t always respected, officials aren’t always respected, o t h e r s t u d e nt s a re n ’ t a l w ay s respected. Why do we think it’s okay to disrespect those around us? Why do we think it’s okay to walk all over people, to use them and be rude to them?

Now, I’ve fallen victim to rude behavior a million times, both committing and receiving it. But I feel like as we depend more on electronics, we start acting ruder and ruder.

Cell phones. They’ve changed us. Constantly being connected to people. It’s convenient, yes, but we’re already connected with the people around us. We don’t need to hold a conversation with someone else when we’re standing next to another person. It’s rude. Our attention is diverted. It’s really inconsiderate.

If someone’s trying to talk you, and you’re steadily distracted by another conversation on your phone, you won’t hear half of what they’re saying.

I see so many kids in the hallway staring into their screens. Not blinking, not talking, just typing.

Texting. Emailing. Tweeting. Is it really that important to tweet how much school sucks instead of watching where to walk? I can’t even tell you how many times I’ve been run into by someone who was staring into a screen. And do they ever apologize? No. All I’m asking is that we get it together. We’re consistently making ourselves look bad, it’s time to step it up.

Holt High School Ramparts

Black Friday: Stacie Skinker

staff writer The Black Friday countdown is winding down, as there are now only three days until stores open their doors. Retailers all over the country lure in customers by offering the craziest deals at unusual hours. Are you prepared? Here are a few tips to help you along the way.

Have a plan Make a schedule or route of where you want to go first and last. Knowing where you are going will eliminate extra pondering time and maximize your shopping experience.

“I look at all the shopping ads, then all of us girls after Thanksgiving dinner sit down and map it out,” security guard Deb Watson said.

1

2

know what you’re looking for

Do some research ahead; check out a few ads. What are this year’s big sales? What deals do you want to take advantage of? This will allow you get in and out of stores quickly.

“I look at the ads in the newspaper to see what I want,” junior Malik Brand said.

6

Ramparts surveyed 132 students about what they shopped for most on Black Friday.

Beauty products 4.54% Games/toys 6.06%

Clothing/ accessories 35.60%

Nothing 11.36%

Other 7.57%

You will need all of the energy you can get. Your body is not used to being up and active at crazy hours.

This will help keep you awake.

“I don’t go to sleep that night, I sleep the day before on Thanksgiving,” junior Paul Schalau said.

4

5

Ramparts surveyed 118 students about who they shop for most on Black Friday.

38.98% shop for a family member

41.52% shop for themselves

success

Take a power nap

Student Shopping stats

Electronics 34.84%

Tips for

Do your body a favor and maybe go for sweats and some tennis shoes. After all, you will be standing for an extensive amount of time.

“I wear sweat pants and a T-shirt with a hoodie and some sandals because it’s comfy,” junior O.J. Payno said.

Get there early Long lines are inevitable.

Being near the front will give you a head start over other shoppers, but be prepared to wait regardless.

“Getting there early helps you get what you want.

If you get there late everything is gone,” junior Justine Hidalgo said.

3

wear comfortable clothes, especially shoes

Bring a snack

6.78% shop for their significant other

12.71% shop for friends

6

You are bound to get a little hungry. Satisfy yourself without wasting time in yet another line. Plus it’s cheaper.

“I stop at McDonald’s before so I don’t get hungry,” senior Donte Jackson said.

What fellow students had to say about black friday

Senior Trey Hamel Worker

“Don’t work at a mall, but to customers coming in, be prepared to wait in line.”

Sophomore Marissa Jenkins Non-shopper

“I don’t really care that much. I’m sure my mom does, but I usually just sleep.”

Junior Mitch Bailhe Non-shopper

“I don’t go Black Friday shopping because there’s too much chaos.

Some people die from that stuff.”

Senior Lauren Holden Shopper

“My favorite part is getting up early and standing in line because you know you’re going to get it.”

Photos by Stacie Skinker

Features

9

Holt High School Ramparts

November 2012

Rise and Shine

Skipping breakfast isn’t worth those five extra minutes you have to get ready in the morning in school. With lots of reasons to eat Kylee Voorhis staff writer We all love food, so why do some of us choose not to eat it every morning? When rushing out the door to get to school on time, why not grab something yummy, quick and, most important, healthy for breakfast? Not the Pop-tart or Toaster Strudel, try something healthy and good for you.

Start your day off well, with a stable breakfast.

For most students, eating breakfast every morning is not in their morning routine. In a recent Ramparts survey of 110 students, 29 percent said they never eat breakfast during the school week. Out of those students who do, only 23 percent feel that they eat a healthy breakfast.

“It’s very important because breakfast is the first we have eaten from the day before, and it breaks the fast,”health teacher Elizabeth Graf said.

Studies show that eating breakfast will actually improve how well you do

breakfast every morning, it makes it the most important meal of the day.

“Eating breakfast keeps you awake in the morning,” senior Jazzmyne Scott said.

When you start the day off right with a healthy meal, you will develop a better learning ability and will stay more focused in class. It will improve your concentration. Studies show that enjoying a meal in the morning will also improve your math grades, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Not only is it going to benefit you academically, it will also help you physically. Without eating breakfast, you become more prone to cravings throughout the day, and you become more likely to make unhealthy food choices the rest of the day, according to everydayhealth.com. This could eventually lead to being overweight.

Those students that do not eat breakfast on a regular basis tend to be less attentive in class and have a loss of concentration.

A healthy and nutritious breakfast is one with protein, carbs and a

While not all of these are quick to whip up in the morning, try making some of them the night before and grab them on the way out the door in the morning, Or make them Sunday night.

Eat this

little fat.

Protein will keep you alert and ready to start your day off right; it stays with you and won’t make you crash like sugar will. Carbs, like whole grains and fruit, will provide energy.

Eating a granola bar or a Pop-Tart won’t settle your stomach the whole day. It may keep you full until about second hour, then the hunger starts to hit.

Getting most of the food groups included is key: dairy, protein, grains, fruits, veggies, and a little fat. This doesn’t mean having to sit down for a full meal every moring just get the basics.

The basics of a healthy breakfast include whole grains. Examples include whole-grain rolls, bagels, hot or cold whole-grain cereals, low-fat bran muffins, crackers, or toast. Lowfat protein should also be included.

Such as peanut butter, lean meat,

• Fruit • Cereal • Yogurt parfait • Fruit smoothie • Scrambled eggs • Breakfast burrito • Oatmeal and fruit • English muffin and fruit • Homemade granola bars • Homemade pancakes/ waffles • Peanut butter and honey toast • Yogurt or greek yogurt and fruit • Bacon, egg and cheese English

Photo by Kylee Voorhis

poultry o r f i s h, or hard-boiled eggs.

Another thing to include is low-fat dairy.

Examples would be skim milk, lowfat yogurt and low-fat cheeses, such as cottage and natural cheeses.

Also include fruits and vegetables.

Examples include fresh or frozen fruits and vegetables, 100 percent juice beverages without added sugar, or fruit and vegetable smoothies, according to mayoclinic.com “Protein and carbs to get you going. Eating whole fruit and not fruit juices,” family and consumer sciences teacher Kellie Sweitzer said.

Most say they don’t eat breakfast

because they don’t have time to sit down and eat a full meal. There are many healthy and quick things you can have that will be a substantial breakfast. Don’t just settle for the granola bar, slice of leftover pizza or a doughnut. While those may taste good, they aren’t healthy for you and will not have the same positive effects as eating a full meal.

“The top reasons I hear are I don’t have enough time, not hungry, eating breakfast makes me feel sick, and I don’t like breakfast food,” Sweitzer said.

However, when it comes to breakfast the minimum would be just having something in the morning to give a burst of energy and get the morning started off right.

Not that • Muffins • Pop-Tarts • Doughnuts • Energy bars • Sugary cereal • Toaster Strudel • Processed meats • Sugary snack food • McDonald’s breakfast • Frozen breakfast meals • Frozen waffles/pancakes • Last night’s leftover pizza

Photos by Kylee Voorhis

10

Features

November 2012

Tips For Survival

Abby Cousineau

It’s a Clutter Crisis

C

leaning. It’s an eight-letter word that most teenagers hate to hear. I know no one really enjoys cleaning, but how are you supposed to find that already overdue essay, when every time you open your locker an avalanche of papers, pencils, and empty water bottles spills out?

You’ve probably heard this spiel before, but being organized really can make your life a million times easier. Organizing yourself is a quick fix and can make a big difference.

According to Dr. Kathleen Hall, CEO of The Stress Institute, clutter causes anxiety and makes people feel overwhelmed. And if you’re constantly stressed out, your grades will reflect it.

There are some simple little things you can do to conquer your clutter crisis, though.

1. Make lists or keep an agenda.

Write down your assignments because if you write things down, you are more likely to remember them. (That’s why teachers make you take so many notes.)

2. Have a homework folder and take it to every class.

3. Keep a binder or a folder for every class.

4. And most importantly, tidy up your locker. Try not to have empty water bottles and wrappers floating around in there.

I don’t want to see anyone pulling their hair out this year because they’re so stressed out about school (and I don’t think anyone else wants to either).

Being organized saves time and energy, and let’s be real, nobody wants to miss out on the first basketball game of the season because of a misplaced project, right? So don’t be that person. Just make your stressful high school life a little bit easier and organize.

It’s a guarantee, if you’re just a little more orderly, you will be happier and more prepared, which could positively affect your grades. And who doesn’t want better grades?

Holt High School Ramparts

Sharing the

Spotlight

New light shines down on lunch staff

Holt High School Ramparts

Out with the old and in with the new Reduce, reuse, recycle. Ways HHS stays green

Close to Home

How the school is making a positive impact.

What does Holt do to recycle their electronics?

When HHS gets new electronics, other schools in the district get the used ones.

opinion editor

staff writer

It’s a typical day behind the register for west kitchen cashier Denise Kramer, as students started lining up to buy their lunches. make healthier choices.

The replacement of Skittles and Starbursts with green peas is a tragedy to most of the lunch staff, who are the ones behind everyday lunches. They strive to do their best to make lunches enjoyable for everyone.

“We each have our own job, most of us more than one,” east side cashier Mrs. Wagner said (first name withheld).

The work done behind a successful day starts in the early hours of the morning. From proportioning to stocking, the back of the kitchen is in full swing by 6:30 a.m. to make it to a 10:30 deadline. It takes preparation and hard work to unfold a ‘normal’ lunch twice a day.

“I appreciate that we’re all able to work together,” west kitchen cashier Denise Kramer said. “That way we’re all on the same page before kids start lining up.”

These woman don’t resemble the typical “Billy Madison” lunch lady who offers extra sloppy joes with ratty red hair exposed, while spit flies from her mouth after each word of offering. No, they’re much, much more than that. Movies have built up that ‘lunch lady’ profile. In doing so, they have the ultimate

stereotypical point of view on these women, by falsely portraying them as having a mean personality and a scary sight that most can’t seem to look past.

“We should know more about them,” senior Olivia Krish said. “I mean, why not? It could possibly help take away the biases.”

For all that they do, what most students return is a mumbled thank you after punching in their PIN number. Students don’t notice that it took an arm and a leg to finagle that extra side of fries.

Rewarding these women is as easy as showing them that they are appreciated, so a simple thank you would do justice. It’s not that students are careless, or anything such as purposely ignorant. Most of the time it’s a simply forgotten remember to step down from our podium built of gold to lift another up.

Photos by Courtney Houser

Name : Lynn Adams Positon: Head Cook Kitchen : West Dream Job: Photographer Life-Time Activities: Anything outdoors, such as hunting, boating, and swimming Pets: 7-year-old yellow lab named Bennelli Unique Fact: Yooper accent Name: Savine Baldwin (Auntie) Positon: Snack Bar Cashier Kitchen: East Dream Job: Flight Attendant Life-Time Activities: Shopping, camping, and traveling Pets: Two shitzu’s named Leoise and Dounkon and two Maine Coon cats named Max and Aggie Unique Fact: From Germany Illustrations by Bryce Zippi

11

November 2012

Hannah Marsh

Courtney Houser

Talk always seems to be the same.

Students see that same familiar face being recognized or once again the same sports hog all the attention.

To an extent, most have become innocently unaware of those other than themselves.

Before getting defensive, consider breaking that Superman stance of steel and sharing the spotlight.

Between sports, clubs, and all the students, there are very few opportunities for that spotlight over the student body to focus down upon the few staff members that deserve a piece of that light too, such as the kitchen staff.

“I see them every day, but I don’t know anything about them,” junior Vanessa Campbell said. “It’s just a routine to get my lunch and go.”

Every day over a short three-year span, the lunch staff, being the ‘mothers’ of HHS, have cooked, served and cleaned up after every lunch. In doing so, they’re still able to keep a solid smile because for the majority, having the chance to contribute to the lives and well-being of each student comes as enough to satisfy.

“For me, it’s about the kids and making sure they’re happy with the healthier meals,” head cook Lynn Adams said. “Every day I see more and more students making the healthy choice and getting that side of veggies they’d normally pass by.”

School lunches pose as a great foundation to building a healthier community, as they provide each student the opportunity to

Features

Recycling centers are available all over the United States. Ways to get involved in the green movement and help keep the planet clean are easily accessible. But what would happen if we found out that these recycling centers aren’t always doing what they say they are?

Electronics are a part of our daily life. They’re convenient, they’re quick. That being said, what are their effects? What happens when we get a new laptop, and don’t need the old one?

A study focusing specifically on electronics, done by 60 minutes and CBS News found that not all recycling facilities are really taking care of the electronics that get dropped off.

The countries’ electronic waste, or E-waste, is being sent across the globe to poor rural areas by some recycling centers. People in other nations are being underpaid to dispose of and take care of run down computers, cell phones and other electronics.

The electronics are hard to break down and dispose of, making the land and the air very

What happens with our old computers?

They are recycled at a city-wide recycling event.

How often does this happen?

The school is scheduled to get new computers in the summer of 2014.

Did you know...

Illustration by Hannah Marsh

hazardous to the people who live there. So even though people think they’re doing the right thing and recycling, they really aren’t helping the environment.

The recycling program at HHS includes paper products, cardboard and plastic.

The school doesn’t produce much E-waste because we share our old electronics with other buildings in the school district.

“The high school is the first to get new

electronics, like computers. When that happens, we send our old ones to a school that has outdated ones,” Media Specialist Teresa Asch said.

If it’s not time to get new equipment and something breaks, it doesn’t get thrown away.

“It’s more of a reclaiming process. If my computer stops working, we send it out and get it repaired instead of buying a new one,” counselor John Conner said.

HHS is considered a Green School, which basically means that it’s good for the community and the environment.

“To me, that’s a big thing. We’re the only one in Ingham County,” counselor John Conner said.

Source: Media Specialist Teresa Asch

Statistics

Facts about how the US disposes of electronics •About 130,000 computers are thrown away every day.

•Over 100 million cell phones are thrown out a year.

Source: 60 Minutes

A newtwist on conventional athletics

A different perspective on sports Sydney Holmes staff writer

Sports are an important part of many students’ lives. With the winter season beginning, everyone’s got basketball on their minds. But what many students may not know is that there are plenty of other sports to get excited about.

Many students participate in a number of “non-traditional” sports, sports that are different than just the usual organized sports like football and baseball. Horseback riding, roller derby, and badminton are just a few.

These sports often don’t get as much attention as others, but they are just as interesting.

Sam Foster How long have you been horseback riding?

“Since I was five.”

How did you start?

“It’s every little girl’s dream, so I just decided to pursue it.”

What do you like most about it?

“It gives me something to work towards and I’m always learning something.”

Are you going to continue it in the future?

“Yeah, I plan on doing it in college.”

What do you want people to know about horseback riding?

“It takes a lot of work to prepare for it, and it’s hard in the sense that you have to control a half-ton animal.”

Liwei Deng How long have you been playing badminton?

“Five years.”

How did you start?

“I just liked it, so I decided to play.”

What do you like most about it?

“You get to be in control.”

Are you going to continue it in the future?

“Maybe, I’m not sure.”

What do you want people to know about badminton?

“It’s actually pretty easy.”

Terezia Kocsis How long have you been doing roller derby?

“Two years.”

How did you start?

“My cousin played for the adult league.”

What do you like most about it?

“It’s a great way to relieve stress, and it’s really fun.”

Are you going to continue it in the future?

“Yes.” What do you want people to know about roller derby?

“It’s not just people hitting each other in the face.”

Photos by Sydney Holmes

12

The Hot Spot

November 2012

That’s Entertainment

Bryce Zippi Bieber comes to Detroit

T

een idol Justin Bieber heads to Detroit, on November 21 for his sold out ‘Believe’ tour. The show will be held at ‘the Palace of Auburn Hills and will start at 7 p.m.

Excited is how I describe myself on going to the event. I’ve never seen him in concert (his last tour “My World” was in 2010). From what I hear on Twitter and Facebook, this is the concert of the year.

Bieber’s first stop was in Glendale, Ariz. on September 29. From the time the tour started, I couldn’t help myself. Just knowing I’m seeing him in concert is like waiting for my presents on Christmas morning. The anticipation just heats up each day.

Yes, I even have a countdown on my iPhone. That’s how big of a fan I am.

I know people think that only ten-year-old girls can be fans. That’s not true. Anybody can like any artist and it doesn’t have to be based on gender. I became a fan by watching him on YouTube back in 2008, and I knew right away that he would make it big some day. He made his first album called “My World” in 2009, and I just thought it was the greatest thing.

Through the years I remained a fan. Not because I just liked his album, but because we’re both the same age and we both go through the same stuff. That’s what Justin wrote about in his songs, like my favorite songs “One Time” and “Down to Earth.”

Now in 2012 I’m such the obsessive fan. I follow him on Twitter and Instagram. I also have a ‘Never Say Never’ poster on my wall and I have more than one copy of “Justin Bieber: Never Say Never” on Blu-Ray. Yep! It just gets better and better.

When it comes to November 21, I will be ready. I’ve got my floor tickets which I paid A LOT of money for and I also have the purple shoes that Bieber wears (yeah, that’s where the crazy obsessed fan comes from).

I can’t wait to go; it’ll be a concert to remember. #BELIEBER for life.

Holt High School Ramparts

From book to

Big Screen Readers’ wishes are granted and prayers are answered when the preview comes on the screen for the movie adaptation of their favorite book.

This fall and winter, movie versions for a wideranging variety of books are making their way to the big screen.

Fan Favorites

Photo by Maya Fews

The boy who lived: The book chronicles Harry Potter and his friends as they try to defeat Voldemort, and not get kicked out of school in the process. Harry Potter takes readers to a world of witches, wizards and the growing influence of dark magic. The Harry Potter Series has expanded past books into movies, with an interactive site called PotterMore and a theme park attraction at Universal Studios in Orlando.

Forever Young: Bella Swan appears to be a normal 18-year-old, but Bella is in love with a vampire. The Twilight series captures Bella and Edward’s love, becoming a vampire and how far one is willing to go for love. This month the saga will come to an end with the final movie “Breaking Dawn, part two”.

Betting the Odds: Katniss Everdeen finds herself in a position that others would literally kill for, a spot to compete in the Hunger Games in order to benefit her district. This past spring “The Hunger Games” came to theaters in the first of the three-part series.

Maya fews feature editor

The Perks of Being a Wallflower

The Hobbit(PG13)

The book originally came out 13 years ago, but it has been able to connect with teens regardless of the generation gap. Written by Stephen Chbosky, the story is told through a series of letters from Charlie (Logan Lerman) to an unnamed friend.

The letters document his high school experience when he meets his two best friends, Patrick (Erza Miller) and Sam (Emma Watson).

As Charlie’s relationship with Patrick and Sam becomes deeper, his days as a high school loner become few and far between. Charlie experiences a transformation to a more assertive teenager.

“There’s nothing in there that you can’t relate to some point in your life. It’s one of those books where it not only grabs your heart, but makes you laugh and inspires you to be better because you know that your aren’t in this alone,” senior Jenelle Jones said.

“The Perks of Being a Wallflower” comes to DVD and Blu-Ray this January.

The prequel to the “Lord of The Rings” trilogy, “The Hobbit” tells the story about how Bilbo Baggins (Martin Freeman) found the ring, how the ring came into Frodo’s (Elijah Wood) possession, and the powers that the ring possessed. The movie is based off of J.R.R. Tolkien’s novel of the same name.

“The Hobbit”, like the book, will be broken down into three parts: “An Unexpected Journey”, “The Desolation of Smaug” and “There and Back Again.” Many of the actors who starred in the “Lord of the Rings” series will continue their roles in “The Hobbit,” like Elijah Wood continuing his lead role as Frodo.

“I am looking forward to seeing “The Hobbit” come to life and witnessing the work and effort of J.R.R. Tolkien,” senior Ryan Phillips said.

“The Hobbit” hits theaters December 14.

Anna Karenina(R) The 1877 Russian classic by Leo Tolstoy has been remade in the past. Taking place in 19th century Russian society, “Anna Karenina” tells the misfortunes of Anna Karenina (Keira Knightley) , her aristocratic family and their infidelities.

The book is comprised of eight parts, with a key event in each part, such as the infidelity of Anna Karenina’s brother. Anna Karenina can be seen as confusing to readers, since the text changes to a different character’s perspectives multiple times.

Tolstoy’s masterpiece hits theaters this month.

“I can’t wait to see how the complexity of the plot will be displayed and acted out in the movie,” senior Katie Patterson said.

Book covers taken from Amazon.com, fair use.

The Great Gatsby(PG13)

The book captured the mood of the Roaring ‘20’s in the age of flappers and extravagant parties. The movie and book are told through the perspective of Nick Carraway(Tobey Maguire) who comes to New York from the Midwest in hopes of becoming a writer.

While in New York, Nick lives next door to bachelor Jay Gatsby (Leonardo Dicaprio), who is known for throwing for over-the-top parties, and his cousin Daisy Buchanan and her husband Tom. “The Great Gatsby” covers more than the party atmosphere of the 1920’s, but the feeling of lost love between Jay and Daisy, as well as the secret world of “bootlegging” during the era of prohibition.

“I am looking forward to how they show the end of the book. The imagery in that scene was really good, and I don’t know how they would, or if they would surpass that scene in the movie,” sophomore Ellen Weise said.

“The Great Gatsby” comes out May 10.

The Hot Spot

13

Holt High School Ramparts

Teachers in the Mix

They rock, they roll and they are ready for their close up

Rachel Dillingham

staff writer

Band teacher Mike Emerson B a n d Te a c h e r M i k e Emerson began playing piano at 8 years old. In sixth grade, Emerson began playing in the high school band, after falling in love with the trombone.

He then played trombone throughout high school and in college. While going to school, Photo by Rachel Dillingham Emerson learned how to play all the band instruments. Although most of his musical career was spent in a marching band, Emerson and a few college friends started band named The Investments. The band played ska music, which incorporated trombone, a singer, horns and guitar. This genre allowed a lot of people on the stage when The Investments performed.

“When I performed on stage I was the clown. No doubt. Especially back then, I would do anything to get the crowd’s attention,” Emerson said.

No longer in a band, Emerson still plays his trombone, “I play once a month. I love to play in front of my kids which allows them to sing and get engaged in my passion,” Emerson said.

Music is essential to his life and forever will be.

“I teach music, not just band. It’s really important to teach more than the technical aspects of music, but to focus on the music being made. It’s what you are creating,” Emerson said.

Vocal music teacher Monty Bishop Vocal music director Monty Bishop has been playing instruments and singing for 32 years. Growing up in the 70’s and the 80’s was a time when contemporary Christian music was being introduced to the mainstream for the first time. Amy Grant and Michael W. Smith influenced Bishop and his singing career.

Bishop has numerous albums from his traveling career, and he continues Photo by Diane Bishop to perform for audiences at various venues. Most of these performances include religious Christian gatherings, churches, arenas and parks. Bishop makes time for his weekly practice sessions.

“I practice at home several times a week for several hours,” Bishop said.

Bishop is always proud of his work and the work he performs with students.

One moment in particular was in his award acceptance.

“I was awarded the 1987 Michigan Male Gospel Vocalist of the year,” Bishop said.

His eclectic style of music brings a new sound to his work.

“I study all kinds of music in an effort to gain appreciation for the genre, then incorporate those elements that work for me,” Bishop said.

November 2012 Math teacher Craig Huhn Math teacher Craig Huhn started playing campfire songs on his guitar in grade six. At the age of 14 Huhn became the bass player in his first band, which played throughout their college years Photo by Kellie Huhn and was known as the Smiling Villains. They broke free of local venues and headed for the Midwest. Smiling Villains had a punk sound with a keyboard flare, performing covers of songs by the Ramones and Misfits, as well as songs they wrote themselves.

“Because we used the keyboard, people compared us to the popular 80’s group The Cure.” Huhn said.

Since then, Huhn has played in two other bands, one fresh out of college called Macbeth, and the other with fellow teacher Doug Harkema called the 4-42’s. Playing and performing has always been a part of his life.

“Performing allows me to express myself,” Huhn said. “I like to play and just be.”

Social studies teacher Dave Runyon S o cial Studies teacher Dave Runyon began playing the saxophone in his high school band. Runyon decided to trade the sax for the mandolin.

In adolescence, his Photo by Rachel Dillingham love for music went unchanged, and when given the opportunity to play in a band, he took it. He played the bass in the band Albino Meatstick.

“We played grunge, or what is now considered classic rock,” Runyon said.

Albino Meatstick played at local venues like the Loft and Mac’s Bar. “When we performed I was the action man. Always jumping around and thrashing my head comes natural.”

Runyon decided to part with the band in 2002 due to artistic differences.

“It’s hard to agree on ways to run a band, especially when their lifestyles are completely different than your own,”Runyon said.

Social Studies teacher Robert Dozier Social studies teacher Robert Dozier grew up listening to, playing and being a part of music, playing the saxophone and percussion. He began rapping and writing poetry in his mid-20’s. Dozier remains a solo artist, whose main focus is Christian rap and Christian poetry.

“My music comes from my faith,” Dozier said.

The poetic rapper has many local Photo by Benjamin David Christian rap influences, some of which include his friends from churches and popular Christian hip-hop artists, 1-16 Crew, LeCrae and Cross Movement Records. Dozier created Healthy Harvest Record Label, which has produced three albums and one compilation. In his music he likes to try new things.

“I incorporate many different aspects,” Dozier said. Dozier continues to perform for youth rallies, talent shows and church.

“It’s more than a hobby, it is a source of income for me”, Dozier said.

Visit KnowDoz.com to listen to, learn and explore more about Dozier.

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

What’s stuck in senior Sydney Hein’s head?

Style of music: Indie Rock, mellow guitar picking mixed with rock beats and soft vocals.

“Mountain Sound”- Of Monsters and Men “It’s a guy and girl duet, and the harmony they have in the song is really good.”

“Fast Car”- Tracy Chapman “The lyrics in the song are just really good; they definitely stood out to me when I first heard it.”

“Satellite”-Dave Matthews “I know the song from my childhood. I used to listen to it when I was a child so I just have grown to like it.”

“Lisztomania”-Phoenix “The song comes on 94.1 a lot, and I usually like anything on that station.”

What’s stuck in physical education teacher Doug Harkema’s head?

Style of music: Harkema describes himself as pretty much a rocker but says he likes all genres. (He’s a huge music fan).

“All music is great. My mood dictates what I listen to.”

“Back in Black”- AC/DC “AC/DC is one of my favorite bands. The song takes me back to my high school days; hard driving band.”

“Life’s Been Good”- Joe Walsh “Love the guitar work in the song, funny song.”

“One Piece at a Time”- Johnny Cash “Love my classic car. This song is about working at GM. Country music is great.”

“1812 Overture”- Tchaikovsky “When this classical masterpiece cranks up and the cannons are firing, it really gets my blood flowing.”

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

November 2012

The Press Box girls cross Country record: 3-3 league standing: N/A season highlight: “Regionals.

All girls on varsity got their personal records,” senior Stacie Dexter said. lesson learned: “Ruth’s Race.

For those who don’t know, Ruth Pridgeon, who was a coach for both cross country and track, passed away in the spring of 2010 from pancreatic cancer. Ruth’s Race is a cross country meet dedicated to her, and all of the profits go to fund pancreatic cancer research. Usually, it’s just a home meet that we sell t-shirts at, but this year, there was an open race. ,” senior Elizabeth Haubert said.

Holt High School Ramparts

College recruitment is in full swing

CHEERLEADING

season highlight: ”This season we were really close, unlike other years, which is always nice,” senior India Heard said. in their words: “Building relationships with new people allows for a better year,” senior Jasmine Lynch said.

GIRLS GOLF

league standing: Third season highlight: ”I’ve always learned that everything is always about being the best. I wasn’t very good, so it was fun just playing a sport that wasn’t as serious as the other ones I play,” sophomore Tara Lierman said. lesson learned: “I learned that confidence and staying out of your head is what makes you a good player. And it’s not just about your talent, it’s about how strong of a mental player you are,” junior Alexxis Van Pelt said .

15

Holt High School Ramparts

November 2012

a school divided, a state divided

The Press Box

Rivalry between the two teams heats up

record: 5-4 league standing: Fourth place season highlight: “Winning doesn’t always help bring a team together,” senior Charles Waits said. lesson learned: “I wish we would have done better and not let distractions come in the way of our success,” senior Deron Riddle said.

Zack Gilliland editor-in-chief

BOYS CROSS COUNTRY record: 6-1 league standing: Third place season highlight: “as a team, we beat Okemos, as an individual it would be qualifying for states,” junior Grant Colligan. lesson learned: “If you have a dream follow it, don’t give up on it. Also, without team encouragement I wouldn’t be where I’m at now,” senior Andrew Middleton said.

Sports

Student athletes grasp opportunities to play at the next level Zahra Ahmad editor-in-chief Many students go into high school sports hoping to eventually be able to play at the college level. These student athletes put in many hours of hard work and time in hopes of being able to be a part of National Signing Day. They must capture the attention of a recruiter.

If the recruiter is interested in the athlete, they will make sure to notify them, their families or the school.

Students will often have schools looking at them for sports, and then college coaches slowly narrow down the field until they want to recruit the student. At this point, the student must decide which school they want to commit to.

The school they commit to will be the school they sign to on signing day. Although there is a lot of work put into getting looked at and being recruited, students agree that the feeling of knowing they are getting closer to playing college sports is satisfying enough.

“When I got the news that Saginaw wanted to sign me, I was so relieved. It felt that all my hard work had finally paid off,” senior Emma Webster said.

Webster is getting signed by Saginaw Valley State University for womens soccer. Webster agrees that getting looked at or recruited is not a one-way relationship. Colleges will send scouts to schools if they are interested in certain athletes, however, there are specific

camps where many scouts come to watch many athletes at once.

“You have to be very involved and proactive in the recruiting process,” junior Adam Turner said. “I went to summer baseball college camps.

This let college coaches come out and watch us.”

Turner is currently getting looked at by several schools. Turner said he would go to Central Michigan University if given the choice.

Besides getting into one’s school of choice, recruiting offers other benefits, such as scholarships which vary in amounts depending on the division of the school. Division One schools will often offer full scholarships, where Division Two schools offer partial scholarships.

“Even though there are financial benefits in college, they aren’t everything,” junior Ty Glover said. “The feeling of accomplishment and being able to continue the sport I love in college is just as beneficial.”

Glover was looked at this fall as a running back on the varsity football team. Student athletes agree that being able to play their sports in college is rewarding because of how much they have already impacted their lives.

“Sports helped me so much in life. They have given me a lot of confidence,” Webster said. “Sports made me who I am, so I thought it was really important to continue to do them in college.”

Sports have usually become part of an athlete’s life at a young age. Senior Andrew Sabrosky has signed to Michigan State University for baseball and had a start at the sport at a young age.

“I started playing baseball when I was three, but I didn’t play competitively until I was six or seven,” Sabrosky said.

Student athletes do much work but do not take all the credit for their success in sports.

Being successful in sports involves dedication and hard work from families and coaches.

“My coaches and family have really helped me focus on my goals. Also hard work has really helped me get to where I am today,” Turner said. “I was getting excited the summer of my sophomore year when letters from colleges that were interested in me started coming in. I could tell things were starting to pay off.”

Recruiting is a difficult process, and although many students want to play at a college level, it’s not always possible. Student athletes should not depend on sports for getting into college, but should also not be discouraged if a college is not interested.

“If a school isn’t interested in you don’t take it personally, they just may not have a spot for you on the team,” Webster said. “Schools are often looking for specific spots to fill so they are looking for specific athletes.”

For younger student athletes, experienced athletes said it is important to stay involved with the process. They should make sure to stay both dedicated in their sports and school.

“If students really want to be successful in the sport they are playing they should really have a strong work ethic,” Sabrosky said. “They have to be dedicated to their sport and learn not to give up if they really want it.”

It’s game day, and a big match up is about to begin. The Michigan State Spartans are about to face off against their biggest rivals in the battle of Paul Bunyan trophy, the Michigan Wolverines. This is a rivalry that has been going on since the first meeting in 1898 when the Wolverines beat the Spartans 39-0.

When a rivalry starts, the teams are usually in the same conference or the game is an upset.

This has happened multiple times in college games. A key time fans will see this big game is later in the season.

If a team is a favorite to win the National Championship or a big bowl game, this one game could change that very quickly. A huge upset would take them out of the conversation of going to a bowl game or National Championship.

Rivalries are not always a bad thing for a team. Beating that undefeated team can be a huge boost for a team and give the dedicated fans bragging rights until the next meeting.

“They make the sport more fun to talk about,” senior Robert Hull said.

“It also gives you bragging rights.”

As the suspenseful football meeting

BOYS SOCCER

Photo byZack Gilliland

Michigan State fan senior Josh Wiles battles senior Jacob Casanova against the big game between the two rival schools. The rivalry began when the teams played each other in 1898 when Michigan beat State 39-0. of MSU and U of M approaches, being a U of M fan helps with the bragging rights, as they lead the meeting with a series record of 68-32-5.

“As a U of M fan in a Spartandominated area, it’s always good to be armed with the bragging rights of a Wolverines win,” senior Jacob Casanova said. “When the Spartans play the Wolverines, it’s always fun to watch.”

Sportsmanship can be a key factor in some of the bigger rivalries making them important. It’s not like the head coaches for the Detroit Lions and the San Francisco 49ers are in a volatile

battle with every rival opponent they have.

“Rivalries are important because of the history they have and the emotions they create on the part of the fans and the players,” senior Josh Wiles said.

They aren’t always good for creating emotions between the fans and players but can create a culture for the game and games to come.

“Rivalries are important because they drive a team to do their best against their rival team,” Casanova said. “Also, rivalries (if they’re friendly) can bring together different

kinds of people.

The Michigan Wolverines aren’t the only team who has bragging rights. The Michigan State Spartans had their shining moments as well.

Whether it’s going to the game or preparing to watch on tv, game day is always a big day for college sports fans.

“My house is a pretty crazy place on game day because we’re either getting ready to go to the game if it’s at home, or having friends and family over to watch the Spartans play,” Wiles said.

Students adjust to new school, new team Athletes quickly adapt to new environment Bryce Zippi staff writer Going to a new school may not be easy for new students. They have to start over with a new school, new friends and a new sports team, if they play sports. It’s not always bad transferring; it sometimes can be a good thing.

Junior Tyrell Williams, a former

FOOTBALL

student of Grand Rapids Central, wanted to focus more on his education.

“I transferred so I could focus on my grades more,” Williams said.

Senior Nick Patino, a former student of Waverly, transferred because his dad moved to Holt.

Everyone’s story is different. No matter if it’s because of a move or on education.

So far the year has been great for Williams and Patino.

“Everyone’s really nice,” Patino said.

They both have met people who they can call friends.

“The people are great and the

teachers are very generous,” Williams said.

Williams is athletic and plans to play basketball this year. Williams can play guard or forward on the team. His goals for the team are to not only help out, but to also be a leader as well.

As for Patino, he played soccer earlier this year and said it went really well.

“It was a good year,” Patino said.

Senior Sherye Bradley, came to Holt 2 years ago as a sophomore.

Bradley transferred from Sexton and has enjoyed her experience in Holt.

Bradley also played girls basketball last year and plans on trying out this

year as well.

Bradley had no problem fitting in. Playing basketball was a start on making new friends.

“They’re like family,” Bradley described on how she likes her new teammates.

This year, Bradley wants the team to do well and to not fall in expectations.

As for Williams, he wants a great season and a good school year.

Bradley’s advice to new students would be to go try out for a club or a sport and just enjoy it.

Both Bradley and Williams plan on planning basketball after they graduate. Patino will be playing soccer after he graduates as well.

record: 11-9-3 league standing: Third place season highlight: “Everyone on the team had their ups and downs, but in the end we are all a part of one team and like brothers,” senior Michael Tran said. lesson learned: “The season was a blast, but in the end we were all somewhat unsatisfied,” junior Christopher Kruger said.

GIRLS SWIMMING AND DIVING

season highlight: “Hard work will pay off eventually,” senior Dasha Tarasova said. lesson learned: “The league meets because I felt really confident in what I was doing, and I ended up making it to Regionals,” senior Erin Vargo said.

VOLLEYBALL

record: 23-14-4 standing: 5-2 season highlight: “When we beat Grand Ledge in three games,” senior Julie Shallman said. lesson learned: : “We had a lot of talent, and we ended up closer and played better than we thought we would,” Shallman said.

BOYS TENNIS

record: 13-7-3. 4-1-1 CAAC Blue league standing: Second place season highlight: “We qualified for the CAAC Gold Cup Showcase, which is for the top eight teams in all of midMichigan, so that was a big deal,” coach Russ Olcheske said. lesson learned: : “That we tied second in conference with East Lansing. Even though we lost a lot of seniors, we got it together,” senior Robert Lamond said.

Sports

16

November 2012

Holt High School Ramparts

Signed sports alumni: where are they now?

Former athletes give advice and share their experiences playing at the college level

Morgan Webster Saginaw Valley State University Soccer Class of 2011

Sean Bulkowski staff writer

Ramparts file photo

Josh Barens Michigan State University Soccer Class of 2010

Photo provided by Amanda Johnson

Amanda “A.J.” Johnson Western Michigan University Basketball Class of 2011

Johnson plays shooting guard for Western Michigan University, where she recieved a full-ride athletic scholarship.

When asked about the transition from high school sports into college sports, Johnson said, “In College everyone is just bigger stronger and faster. The best people from every high school are all on one team and the competition is real steep.”

Johnson expressed the changes in being a student-athlete in college as well.

“It’s hard because there is no one in your ear telling you when stuff is due, and when you have a test you are accountable for everything. I go to practice at 8 a.m. and get out at 12. And then go to class. So it’s physically and mentally exhausting,” Johnson said.

“My most memorable moment at Holt would have to be junior year when we killed Okemos at home by like 20.”

Don’t Miss This Hockey November 17

Come support the hockey team at The Summit Ice Arena at 4:30 p.m. It’s their second game of the season.

Girls varsity basketball November 27 The girls varsity basketball team will play at home at 7 p.m. against Owosso.

Boys varsity basketball December 4 Come support the team in their first game of the year on December 4, at home, at 7 p.m. against Waverly High School.

Josh Barens now attends Michigan State University on a full-ride scholarship for soccer. He played on the varsity soccer team all four years when he attended HHS. Unfortunately, Barens is currently recovering from tearing his ACL last spring, but will be ready to play this coming spring of 2013.

When asked about the differences between being a college athlete versus a high school athlete, Barens said, “It’s a lot more pressure in high school with being an athlete and even a student.”

After college, Barens hopes to get drafted onto a Major League Soccer team.

Morgan Webster attends Saginaw Valley State University and played midfield on a two-year scholarship.

When asked about the change of competitiveness from high school to college, Webster said, “It’s more competitive.

We’re being paid to be here. It’s a job, and if we don’t perform at our best then we’re going to get the worst from our coaches. Every game matters. You can’t lose because every game affects your future, if you’ll make the playoffs or not.”

Webster went on to explain changes in college sports.

“For playing time you have to earn ever y minute you get on that field, and it wasn’t like that in high school.”

When asked about her memories from high school, Webster said, “High school was fun, and I enjoyed playing w i t h m y f r i e n d s.

While in college, my teammates were my friends. They were also my competition.”

Photo provided by Morgan Webster

Mitch Zajac Western Michigan University Football Class of 2008

Photo provided by Mitch Zajac

Mitch Zajac attends Western Michigan University of a full-ride Division 1 scholarship When asked about the change in competitiveness from high school to college, Zajac said, “For me, college sports embedded competitiveness deeper into the person I was, and the person I will always be. The time and energy put into preparing to win each game demands ultimate dedication.

This breeds competitiveness because when all that energy in put into something, the only option is winning.”

Now that college is done for Zajac, he will be attending the Chrysler Institute of Engineering. He will complete his MBA as a part of this program while working full-time in an advanced engineering position at Chrysler.

Paul Crosby Mississippi Valley State University Basketball Montevideo Basketball Club in Montevideo, Uruguay Class of 2007 Paul Crosby played for Mississippi Valley State University for two years on a full-ride athletic scholarship and currently plays for the Montevideo Basketball Club in Montevideo, Uruguay.

When asked about the student-athlete differences in college from high school, Crosby said, “You do a lot of traveling, which causes you to have to do your homework on the road and stay focused.”

Crosby continued on further in depth to share his memories back from when he played in high school .

“My most memorable moment at Holt is when we won the State Championship my sophomore year,” Crosby said.

Photo by Chris Seward/Raleigh News & Observer/MCT