Ramparts October 2010

ramparts VOLUME 19, ISSUE 1

HOLT HIGH SCHOOL

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

OCTOBER 2010 FEATURE:

Lack of sleep has many negative effects on students.

PAGE 10

Photo by Mariah Massa

NEWS:

Student groups participate in Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

Kings

of the

PAGE 3

Tennis team qualifies for states page 14

Court

Junior Brian Cobus prepares for a serve during a match against Jackson Lumen Christi. The varsity boys tennis team made it to states for the first time under coach Russ Olcheske.

Photo by Mariah Massa

NEWS:

Football team lends a hand reaching out to the community.

PAGE 5

Photo by Lindsey Hamlin

2

News

October 2010

F.Y.I.

Yearbook

A limited number of 2010-11 yearbooks are available for $75.

Pick up an order form from adviser Clara Swihart in room W205.

Student Success Room

Students wanting extra help for any class subject are welcome and encouraged to take advantage of the Student Success Room, Monday through Thursday from 2:45 until 3:45 p.m. and Wednesday mornings from 9:15 until 10:15 a.m. Contact Student Success Coordinators Joann Weil or Elizabeth Graf with any questions.

Holt High School Ramparts

Service clubs reflect on cyber bullying Members offer their listening ear to students

Jacqui Marpa

staff writer GSA members discuss some ideas for the posters promoting Ally Week, October 18-22. The posters were created and posted after their meeting.

’Dirty Rotten Scoun-

HHS service clubs have been reflecting on the recent death of Rutgers University freshman Tyler Clementi due to “Cyberbullicide.”

Cyberbullicide is cyber bullying that eventually leads to suicide.

Clementi’s case is also considered one of the suicides committed in the decade due to bullying for being homosexual.

Clementi took his ow n life September 22 after his roommates posted online livestreaming of Clementi’s sexual encounter with another male.

Another cyberbullicide case is 13-year-old Megan Meier’s death caused by cyber bullying through the use of a hoax profile created by a neighbor via Myspace in October 2006 in Missouri.

Besides Clementi, Ohio high school student Eric Mohat was bullied for being homosexual as well which led to his death in March 2007.

In effort to prevent similar cases from happening to HHS students, the school provides programs for

Auditions for the musical “Dirty Rotten Scoundrels” will be held November 15-17 after school from 3-5 p.m. in the choir room.

Drivers affected by time change

Agatha Christie’s ‘Black Coffee’

The school production of Agatha Christie’s ‘Black Coffee” will be performed in the Margaret Livensparger Theater two weekends with two different casts. The first cast will perform November 4-6 at 7 p.m., and November 7 at 2 p.m. The second cast will perform November 11-13 at 7 p.m. and November 14 at 2 p.m. See play director Monty Bishop for more information.

drels’

Battle of the Bands

The Battle of the Bands showcases local artists from HHS. Veteran bands like Between You and Me and Catalina Wine Mixer, bring excitement to eager fans.

Interested in trying out? Look for information at the beginning of November. The winner last year received $100 towards a purchase at Marshall Music and had the choice of one of their songs to be played on 88.9 FM.

New counselor

New to the counseling center is counselor Rebecca Fedrigo.

Fedrigo is from Livonia, Michigan.

She was an intern in the counseling department last year and took over Stephanie Gabriel’s position in handling students with last names beginning with the letters P-Z.

Photo by Jacqui Marpa

students who are in need of help and guidance such as PALS, GSA and SADD. Peer Assistance L eadership Service (PALS) helps students in a critical situation to see other options and talk through the situation with them.

“We help students to see other alternatives instead of wallowing in their misery,” junior PALS member Shannon Kraemer said.

In addition to PALS, The GayStraight Alliance (GSA) is a club that helps students to feel welcome and accepted in the school. GSA hosts Ally week every year, which focuses on stopping bullying. This year’s Ally week took place last week.

“This is a week of raising awareness and tolerance in the school. We do this in order to prevent misconceptions because misconceptions can lead to violence,” junior GSA president Anna Strong said.

Strong also believes that bullying has been taken to the next level through the use of Internet.

“The school is not the only place for bullying. There is a new medium, which are the sites that are supposed to be social interaction sites,” Strong said.

SADD, which stands for Students Against Destructive Decisions, plays a similar roles as PALS and GSA in terms of being the students’ listening ear.

Earlier start causes more traffic in school Karina Drachman

staff writer Students pull into the parking lot at 7:20 a.m. on a Monday morning with ten minutes left to get to class.

A long line of traffic is backed up to Holt and Grovenburg Roads, and the parking space is in sight. Students rush in as the first bell rings, and their lockers have been untouched. The second bell rings as they run to their classrooms, late again.

Some students have noticed that parking lot traffic in the morning has been worse this year than in previous years. The rumor was that more traffic was due to more students or more drivers. However,

Photo by Karina Drachman

The five-minute change in the morning has influenced the traffic flow in the student parking lot since the beginning of the school year. Security guard Bruce Duling said he thinks that students haven’t figured out the time so traffic tends to be crowded, but the situation will eventually get better. administrative assistant Kristie Hagerman said that the student population has only increased by nine students, and secretary Collette Boomershine said that parking pass sales have been decreasing since the 2002-3 school year.

Security guard Bruce Duling helps

control the parking lot traffic each morning.

“Parents want to turn in the first drive, which backs up traffic down Holt Road,” Duling said.

Seniors Katina Leger and Emily Felice have noticed more traffic this year, and they said they think it

SADD member Katina Leger said she thinks that the bullies should consider Clementi’s case as a wakeup call.

“It’s very upsetting to take someone else’s life away because of the immaturity of the person that posted the video. They didn’t understand and because of misconceptions,” Leger said.

Social studies teacher and GSA adviser Dave Runyon said he believes that suicide caused by bullying can be prevented from the beginning.

“When you see a bully, the courageous thing to do is to stop them. It is your obligation to report an incident when you see one. Stop violence before it starts,” Runyon said.

is because there are more student drivers.

“I think it has actually been worse,” Leger said. “They need to make more entrances or more parking.”

Senior Dontae Walls also said he thinks that some changes need to be made so that students can make it to school on time.

“The light off of Holt Road takes too long,” Walls said.

Junior Cori Ackerson also said she has been late more often this year, and that the traffic has been worse in the morning.

Duling said he thinks the traffic is worse because school is starting five minutes earlier this year than last year. Junior Dylan Jones said that he thinks the traffic is because of the time change, too.

“Parents and students haven’t figured out the time, so they’re all bunched up together,” Duling said.

“It will get better.”

News

3

Holt High School Ramparts

Students raise funds for the cure Groups help fight breast cancer by raising money

Breast cancer facts Statistics about breast cancer 1. There are about 2.5 million breast cancer survivors in the U.S. today.

2. One in eight women in the U.S. will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime.

3. Besides lung cancer, breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths.

4. A woman is diagnosed with breast cancer every three minutes.

Mariah Massa staff writer In recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, football players, volleyball players and students jumped into action in efforts to raise money for the cure all throughout October.

On the night of the October 8 football game, the players wore and sold pink socks. They also passed around buckets for donations which added up to $1,000. This money will be donated to the American Cancer Society. Varsity football coach Al Slamer along with President of the Booster Club Lori Zajac came up with the idea to have this fundraiser.

“We wanted to do something simple and quick but also something that would help impact the Holt community,” Slamer said.

Senior Kenny Rogers, a captain on the football team, said that showing their support will help to promote breast cancer awareness.

“Everyone on the team was looking forward to dressing in pink; it was a big thing,” Rogers said.

Along with the pink socks, players wore pink mouth guards, shoelaces and tape. Next year they hope to do even more for breast cancer awareness.

The fundraiser that happened within school the week of October 11 was organized by senior Gabby Odom. Odom wanted to do this fundraiser to distinguish herself from

Source: Susan G. Komen for the Cure

Photo by Mariah Massa

Working the donation table during the week of October 11 are seniors Trey Williams and Abdullah Qawwee. Donations benefitted Susan G. Komen. other students and to raise money for a big issue that has not been solved yet. Students were encouraged to wear pink all week and to donate money or Yoplait lids in the center commons. “[By doing this fundraiser] people will know that it’s not cured and the smallest amount helps. Anything you can do is something,” Odom said.

Heading into the month of October the girls on the volleyball team asked their coach, Kellie Sweitzer, if they could do Volley for the Cure. Three years ago the team participated in this event and they wanted to do it again. Some of the players know people with breast cancer and they wanted to help out a good cause.

Volley for the Cure was on October 28 during the game against Grand Ledge. The freshman, junior varsity and varsity teams all wore pink

uniforms while playing.

Sweitzer discussed some ideas before the game regarding the fans.

She said that spectators who bought a Volley for the Cure shirt beforehand could enter the game at a discounted price. Also any person with breast cancer or who survived breast cancer could enter the game for free and they would be announced to the crowd.

Sweitzer said she thought wearing the pink uniforms would help promote breast cancer awareness. “[The shirts] make people ask questions, which is kind of the point.

It gives the players an opportunity to discuss and educate people on selfexams and early detection,” Sweitzer said.

During the game there were pink flags and volleyballs used. Junior Tayler Peifer said that all the girls on

the team were excited for the event.

“I think [the crowd] will be excited knowing that what we are doing is helping,” predicted Peifer before the game.

The money collected from these fundraisers will be donated either to the American Cancer Society (ACS) or Susan G. Komen for the Cure. Students might have seen the commercials for the ACS saying that they are “The Official Sponsor of Birthdays.” This is because the ACS is dedicated to eliminating cancer and providing people who have cancer with more birthdays.

Susan G. Komen for the Cure started when Komen was diagnosed with cancer. Instead of worrying about herself, Komen was thinking of ways to help people with breast cancer. After Komen died, her sister, Nancy G. Brinker promised to try and end breast cancer forever. Since then Susan G. Komen for the Cure has become a global leader and has invested $1.5 billion towards curing breast cancer.

October 2010

In Brief Science Olympiad Science Olympiad has started up for the year, and they are looking for seniors to join the team. They meet in room W209 on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. Practices begin at 2:45 and end at 4 p.m. most days. The team will have snacks and do science activities at practice. If you are interested contact science teacher Heather Peterson in W209. Quiz Bowl The Quiz Bowl team competed on October 25 on Quizbusters against Everett. Everett won with a final score of 320 to 230. The team also has a tournament November 11 for the CAAC championships.

They are always welcoming new members, and start a new tournament season in January for those who are interested in competing. If you are interested contact math teacher Dave Hildebrandt in room E113. Health Challenge All of the physical education classes will be participating in the Health Challenge, which is new this year.

Three times every trimester, students do a weight and body analysis to figure out their body fat percentage.

According to physical education teacher Al Slamer this is the best way to test the health of the body. By making students aware of their health, the physical education teachers hope it will increase students’ quality of life.



Red Ribbon Week The last week of October was Red Ribbon Week hosted by Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD).

During Red Ribbon Week, SADD put red ribbons on students’ car antennas to remind students to be responsible behind the wheel. The red ribbons not only symbolized making good decisions about driving, but will also be a reminder to make good choices in general. Record Board Every three weeks students who are a part of the weight room are challenged to exceed their previous personal record in bench press and vertical jump. The record board is used as a motivator for current students. Another purpose of the board is to preserve tradition between alumni and current students. Men, women and alumni are put on the board according to rank. The top ten in each category will stay on the board until they are beaten.

News

4

October 2010

Holt High School Ramparts

New 3x6 schedule creates mixed opinions

Students react to returning to a sixperiod day Collin Mohr staff writer

Students are experiencing a new schedule change from a 3x5 schedule to a 3x6 schedule.

The 3x5 schedules consisted of three trimesters with five classes each trimester, while a 3x6 schedule is made up of three trimesters with six classes.

The schedule change was first presented by administration due to the lack of options for students with band or choir. If a student was in band, then the 3x5 schedule didn’t allow them to take a foreign language or other elective classes.

Junior Ken Kruger said he likes the new schedule and thinks it makes classes go by faster. He said the downside for him is he also thinks it makes teachers rush through lessons to keep on schedule. Kruger is not afraid of falling behind in any class, though.

“I am very confident in my smartness. This schedule change does not worry me,” Kruger said.

Last year, students had five classes that were 73 minutes long on regular school days and 43 minutes long on half day Wednesdays. Now the school has changed to have six classes for 60 minutes on regular days and 35-minute classes

Photo by Kelsey Manas

Marching Band students (left to right) sophomore Martin Welch, junior Sarah DeLany, sophomore Micah Norwood, and junior Keith Marsh practice for an upcoming performance during their class time. They are just some of the students who have been affected by the new 3x6 schedule. on half day Wednesdays. started at 11:29 a.m. The time difference is Not all students are feeling rushed through significant and some students are not taking class like Kruger. Sophomore Alex Hadick said the change well. he likes the schedule change and is not feeling “Eating lunch at 11:55 a.m. is way worse hurried throughout class. than last year because now I am really hungry “This year has not been any different than throughout the day,” junior Steven McKee said. last. I’m not feeling rushed at all,” Hadick said.

The 3x6 not only affects the student body, The new schedule also pushed back the but affects some of the faculty as well. Security students lunch time so that A lunch does not guard Jane Johnson thinks the new schedule start until 10:50 a.m. and B lunch until 11:55 makes the day go by faster and allows students a.m. This differs from last year’s schedule, to achieve more with the more space in their when A lunch started at 10:16 a.m. and B lunch schedule for different classes.

School store serves up changes Employees reflect on the improvements to this year’s store

Meg McKay staff writer

Photo by Meg McKay

As part of their Retail Management class, seniors Holly Bossenbery and Mandy Johnson help customers after school obtain products brought to students through the school store.

“I think this schedule will be a long-lasting change,” Johnson said. “It really allows students more chances for different electives, which allows them to achieve more,” Math teacher Callie Heck said she has noticed a change from students last year compared to this year.

“When students come into my sixth hour every day, they are always drained from the day,” Heck said.

Heck also observed a difference in student achievement.

“I’ve noticed kids who struggled last year are struggling even more this year, and it’s hurting the students’ ability to spread out their homework load for the night,” Heck said.

Heck said she also feels the effects of the schedule change impacting her daily.

“I have a lot more papers to grade, more students to know. It makes it hard for me to build relationships with my students, and overall, increases my work load greatly,” Heck said.

Gym teacher Doug Harkema likes the new schedule and thinks it has had a positive impact on his gym classes.

“Kids don’t get as bored now with the activities we do because the new schedule allows us less time in class to have on an activity, which doesn’t allow them to get bored as often,” Harkema said.

With the changes made, McKee is looking forward to his senior year.

“I hope next year is the same because I really like the new schedule and would love the more electives I can have senior year,” McKee said.

Over the years, school store adviser Dan Knechtel has watched each group of student employees bring something extra to the student population.

Thanks to last year’s employees, the studentrun store was able to purchase a new sign and a kiosk for the football games from their profits. “[The new sign] is fun to play with. We can do much more to attract students,” said senior Marissa Starr, an employee at the store.

According to Knechtel, because the sign is five to seven times bigger than last year’s, it makes it easier to see.

“You can’t help but notice it,” Knechtel said.

For students to succeed as a part of the school store, they have to volunteer.

“In order to get an ‘A’ in my class, you have

to take initiative. My students work outside of class,” Knechtel said.

As an opportunity for class credit, students can volunteer to work the kiosk. Having the kiosk at football games has given the school store a more professional appearance, in Knechtel’s opinion. Senior Mandy Johnson said she agreed that the kiosk was a good idea.

“It gives parents a better opportunity to purchase from the students,” Johnson said.

To add to the investment of the kiosk, Knechtel is planning to use the display during big events and basketball games.

In addition to the products that are already in the store, employees are continuing to bring in more options for the student population.

“You constantly have to have new products all the time,” Knechtel said. “We have to have new products from year to year.”

Part of the student employees’ job is to make the product affordable to everyone. Their main goal is to make no more than 20 percent profit on merchandise.

This year’s bestselling clothing item is a sweatshirt with ‘Holt’ in zebra print. It comes in blue, green and pink and will be coming soon in purple. They have been selling so well the

COMING SOON Food Slushies- cherry, Coca Cola, strawberry, piña colada Ice cream flavors Clothing Zebra print sweatshirt in purple Pink Zip-Up fleece with a brown ‘HR’ 2010-2011 H-Town Posse T-shirts store has run out of sizes. Another hot item is the hoodies made of Under Armour material, as described by senior Brenden Richards.

Some other bestsellers from year to year are the caramel apple suckers and the two for a dollar candies. The slushies are a bestseller at the store, and also cost a dollar.

At the moment, inventory is the main goal of employees in order to bring students the best products.

This year’s students have not gotten the chance to discuss next year’s improvements, but senior Brandon Lovely has some ideas that he plans to share later with the class. He guaranteed that they would definitely insure improvements from the class of 2011.

News

5

Holt High School Ramparts

October 2010

Football team reaches out Players lend a helping hand to community Lindsey Hamlin staff writer The football team doesn’t only battle on the football field. Coach Al Slamer, along with the players, has been giving more than entertainment to the community; they have been giving their service and time as well.

The football team has been participating in many fund raisers and other service projects to show their support for the community. The team helps at the Holt Community Food Bank on Saturday mornings instead of sleeping in. Slamer said the coaches and players help by lifting boxes and doing whatever they can to lend a helping hand.

“We need to connect with the community because they come and support us on Friday nights, so we need to give back and show that we support the community,” senior Mike Smith said.

This is the first year the team has done community service together with Slamer. Smith said some players have done service projects in years prior, but this was the first time it was really team-oriented.

“It’s really a good idea that we show that we are a small picture of a big community and it is important to give back and not expect everything to come to you,” Slamer said. “We will continue to add community service to the football program, which will be as important as the off-season weight lifting program.”

Along with weekly work at the Holt Food Bank, for Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the team wore pink socks with the brown and gold embroidered ram on the side at all of their October games. They took donations at the game to contribute to research for the cure. Slamer said it will raise money and awareness in the community.

The football team also helped the community and raising money for soldiers overseas through the Wounded Warriors Project.

The Wounded Warriors Project was a fund raiser for wounded soldiers in Iran, Iraq and Afghanistan. Across the nation, 100 schools earned over

Photo by Lindsey Hamlin

Loading donations to take to the food bank, football Coach Ryan Anderson and senior Tyler Culp give their time on October 16. The football team has been involved in many service projects in the last several months. $100,000. The National Guard came to the game at Rockford and they gave support for those conflicts and wounded soldiers on September 2.

During the summer, some players from the team helped out with the summer football camp. The camp was for younger players from fourth to eighth grade. They helped out for seven hours a day. Players also help coach the Junior Rams football teams.

“I have participated in helping out at Junior Rams practice, working at the little kids’ football camp and I’m planning on going to the food pantry to help out the next few Saturdays,” senior Jake Gallimore said.

Returning football players are

looking forward to continuing their community service projects.

“This year we have gotten a good start at helping out and giving back, but next year we’ll have a year of experience under our belt, and I think that we can definitely extend our hands to more projects,” junior Drew Dyer said.

Dyer said he is hoping to have the whole team get together and participate in a bigger project for a day. He wants to work at the soup kitchen or run another kids’ camp.

“There’s a lot of different ways our team can volunteer and give back, so we just need to find the opportunities,” Dyer said.

6

Viewpoints

October 2010 ctober

Holt High School Ramparts

Our View Opinions mixed on new schedule

A

s we returned from a long summer, students were thrown into new change with schedules. This year our schedule has moved to a 3x6: 3 trimesters, 6 classes per trimester. This has opened opportunity but also created problems for students. When the editors of Ramparts came together to discuss the issue we couldn’t choose just one opinion.

On the positive side of the 3x6 , we decided it was good for giving students options. Besides those yearlong core classes, students can take elective classes and classes in the field that they want to major in for the future. Also this opens up an opportunity for students to take more Advanced Placement classes that will give them more of a head start for college.

Now with shorter classes, students can stay focused longer. Going from 73 minute classes to 60 minutes classes makes students less fidgety, able to focus better in class, staying alert and paying more attention. This may result in classes being more productive with the time they have.

Besides positives, there are also negatives to this change. Students now have less face time with their teachers. This will force teachers to move faster with the curriculum and assign more homework in order to fit everything into the significantly shorter class periods.

Also, those who take more difficult classes will spend more time on homework outside of school. Harder classes already assign more homework, but now with an extra class, students tend to lose sleep time because they need more homework time.

With such a complex issue, it was hard for our editorial staff to choose one side. We were split evenly and decided it was a ‘give and take’ situation.

For some of us it allows room to take more classes and have more options outside the curriculum. For others of us, it takes away time in class and adds more homework time. The long-term impact on students remains to be seen.

ramparts Editors in Chief:

Managing Editors: News: Features: Opinion: Entertainment: Sports: Photos: Design: PR Rep: Exchange Manager: Staff Writers:

Adviser:

Holt Senior High School

Lindsey Hamlin Kelsey Manas Brian Proctor Kailey Kraushaar Karina Drachman Jacqui Marpa Mariah Massa Chloe Henley Meg McKay Ben Gates Jordan Rakas Joey Myers Iman Ben-Hamza, Ryan Carrier, Hannan Gedeon, Stephanie Le, Anna Pavlik, Alex Sanford, Cody Shattuck, Alyssa Stepter, Will Thurston 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 100 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.

Texting while driving; it can wait

It’s a dangerous decison to text and drive

Brian Proctor

O

n my way to school one bright and shining day, traveling the speed limit of 55 m.p.h, I file in line behind a small Honda, plastered with numerous high school sport stickers. As I get closer, I look down at my speedometer: 35 m.p.h. Slightly angry at the driver, I look closer and I see him swerving all over the road, sometimes slowing down even more.

Once we get to a two lane section, I pull up beside the vehicle, to see the driver texting, almost completely oblivious to what is going on.

Texting and driving is a controversial, albeit common issue in our electronically dependant society.

Almost everyone has a cell phone nowadays, and as the number of licensed students grows, so does the worry of parents and friends. You

can see it anywhere-- a trip to the store, a drive to your favorite vacation destination-- texting and driving is more common than you know.

The law in Michigan, summed up into layman’s terms, prohibits the use of communication devices, except for emergency use. If you witness an accident, or a robbery, you are able to use your telephone to call the authorities, but if you decide to text someone, you’re going to get in trouble.

For those who are caught while breaking the law, a $100 fine will be sued for distracted driving. For the second, and for each consecutive offense, a $200 fine will be issued.

Numerous studies have been performed since nearly 30 states nationwide banned texting while driving. One study done by the Highway Loss Data Institute compared rates of collision insurance claims in four states -- California, Louisiana, Minnesota and Washington -- before and after they enacted texting bans. Crash rates rose in three of the states after bans were enacted. What do I have to say about that? We’re rebels! We don’t care about rules. If we want to text and drive, then we will. That just seems to be the American way.

When it comes to texting and driving, I refrain from it. I know that five minutes without talking to a friend will not physically or mentally cause me

harm, and that putting my life on the line is not worth any short saying. The only message I would ever send would be “Driving now. Talk later.” I think that is what everyone should send when put in that situation. But you know what they are sending instead? “Hi, my name is ---. I lived a short life, and despite all of the warnings I was given, I currently reside six feet under the ground, away from my family, my friends, and all those people who cared about me.”

Your choices not only affect you, they affect all of the lives around you.

When you make the conscious decision to take your attention off of the road, diverting a chunk of your brain power to a little piece of equipment, you open up the door to hundreds of different paths in life. Don’t get me wrong though, that path isn’t always death and despair. If texting and driving led to deaths more frequently, there would be a much stronger crackdown on the guilty ones.

You could be the lucky one. You could make it out alive. You could be the one to make it home to your parents, your children, and your family.

Life could be handing you the ‘get out of jail free’ card, over and over. All it takes is once. Just one little slip-up, and the ‘go directly to jail, do not pass go, do not collect $200’, could be shuffled into the pile. Then all at once things take a turn for the worse.

noticed price increases on items such as Fat Boys pizza, that has become a student favorite (in the snack line.)

Although complaints of students have been heard, most have yet to truly understand the reason behind the prices.

The very familiar Little Caesar’s ‘Hot and Ready’ pizza for only five dollars, in comparison to slices of Fat Boys pizza that are at school for $1.75 for one piece and $3.25 for two pieces, it is expensive, but to have food from the outside brought in is a treat. We are fortunate enough to provide this opportunity for students, but at a cost to both the district and students. The more students buy, the more the school has to provide and the more the school provides,the more it costs.

According to food service manager Aurora Anstett, prices have not risen over the past three years, but they were forced to raise prices some this year to keep up with costs from food suppliers. With inflation and the rise of food cost to the school,

increase in cost to run the utilities to make the food and keeping up with staff salaries, it has become quite a handful. The price of lunch has to be able to keep up with all of those costs.

The school district only receives subsidy funding from the national government for students, not for staff.

Because the school has to pay for the extra out of their already tight budget, they have to charge staff more in order to be reimbursed. Many teachers bring lunch from home; it’s more affordable for them, eliminates waiting in lines and allows them to avoid the higher prices.

For students receiving free or reduced lunch, prices have never changed. The federal government has guidelines,which have remained more or less the same over the years.

Anstett said the district can make no promises to students that the price of lunch will not continue to rise. One thing’s for sure: school lunch will never go out of style and students will continue to buy even with increasing prices.

The logistics on lunch

Even with prices up, students still buying lunch

Alyssa Stepter

T

his year there are approximately 1,400 students attending HHS, and with the majority of them buying lunch, the lines have become competition for admission. As a district, there are about 6,000 students all together, and on a typical day, the lunch department serves 3-4,000 meals, not including ‘a la carte’ which most of us have come to know as the infamous ‘snack line.’

Not only do lines for lunch appear longer, but students have also

Viewpoints

7

Holt High School Ramparts

Hall sweeps aren’t over yet Hot or not?

New policy readies students for life issues

Kailey Kraushaar

A

fter the late bell rings, the hallways are still full of students who are late to class.

Some of them are running to get to their classrooms, some of them are slowly getting folders out of their lockers, and some are nonchalant as to the fact that they’re late. However, if this were to change, it’s argued by administrators that students would learn better, and that’s where hall sweeps come in.

Along with a new assistant principal came a new practice for the school year, which are called hall sweeps. During a hall sweep, all teachers are told to lock their door when the late bell rings, leaving everyone late left in the hallway.

Then security “sweeps them up” and gives them all detentions.

I understand that the school has a tardy problem, and with thousands of tardies total every trimester, the current three tardy policy is just not cutting it. Being constantly late to class interrupts learning, which is why the hall sweeps began in the first

place. For those who aren’t typically late and are just having a bad day, though, the hall sweeps the school now does are too harsh for those who are rarely late to class.

For those who are late to class often without regret, and feel no need to arrive to class on time, the hall sweeps will give them a reason to get to where they need to go . For the kids that have to use the restroom between classes, or forget a folder and have to go back to their locker every once in a while, though, it’s not fair. This student will think being tardy is okay because he or she has three tardies per trimester, but out of nowhere there is a hall sweep that day and he or she gets a detention.

This seems unreasonable to me, because sometimes people just get caught on a bad day, and having a detention on their record isn’t a fair punishment for a one-time tardy.

Maybe the school is trying to get the message across that being tardy is never okay, which I do understand.

However, this is a high school, and we all slip up every now and then.

The other downfall of hall sweeps is missing class. While students get taken to the office and given a detention slip, they miss out on the learning that goes on in the classroom. If they were tardy by a few seconds, they wouldn’t miss much, but by the time they leave the office with their detention slip, they’ve already missed a good portion of class.

The old tardy policy, while perhaps a little too lenient, had a safety net for those who were typically not late

to class. The hall sweeps, however, cut holes in the safety net. There’s a chance the net will be there to catch students if they’re late, but there’s a chance that even though we were always thought to be able to have three tardies, we might get a detention anyway on our first one.

If the school plans on enforcing such an absolute policy, they should think of the downfalls first. The fact that it’s unfair to the honest and typically punctual students should be considered by administrators.

Maybe giving students a warning the first time they get caught in a hall sweep would be a better and a more fair system, since it would teach kids the importance of punctuality without giving them a detention at first.

Modifying the hall sweeps in order to make it fair for the person that left their book in their locker, or suddenly had to use the restroom between classes, will maximize the efficiency of hall sweeps. By making them more of a learning experience rather than simply getting handed a detention, students will get more out of hall sweeps, and appreciate a second chance.

I’m not saying at all that we need to cushion all of our policies in order to make it easier for the students, because life isn’t easy and high school is supposed to prepare us for life, but there should be some room for goofing up every once in a while without having a punishment as harsh as a detention.

Taking it outside: Spending time outside in the crisp weather and enjoying the changing colors are some of the greatest aspects of fall.

Outdoor animals:

Bitter cold mornings and frost on cars remind us all that winter is dangerously close.

As the sun starts to disappear earlier, students start to keep an eye out for running deer.

Speak up What is the best age to stop trick-or-treating?

“17 because you don’t want to look like an adult creeper if you’re 18. You’ll scare the kids.”

Haleigh Derose, junior

“18, because you’re an adult.”

Marc Hildenbrand, sophomore

“Once you’re in high school because you have to grow up sometime, and you might as well start in high school.”

Justin Jones, senior

Your views Support football Dear Editor, 5...4...3...2... the pig-skinned ball soared through the up-rights and the field goal was good. After a long and hard fought battle, the Rockford Rams pulled away from the Holt Rams 27-24. It was said to be the game of the season. Was it over? Holt had one last chance, with one second left to go in the fourth, Holt received the kick off.

Corrections

Cartoon by Chloe Henley

October 2010

Hope was lost, Holt was defeated!

We were defeated! Our hearts were torn. We lost.

We were 0-2, but that is the past.

This is the future. Our fire hasn’t been put out, it is still blazing.

It is still here. This team is great.

Our team. These few, these Rams, can still have the greatest football season in Holt’s history. Come out and support us, Holt Rams Football 2010.

James Jones, junior

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

October 2010

Holt High School Ramparts

You’ve got a friend in Billingslea New assistant principal stirs up reactions in students

Photo by Dustin Hagfors

Kelsey Manas staff writer they’re rumors and they’re not true,” Billingslea said. “I just laugh about it all. If you really have a question, ask me and I’ll tell you the truth.”

Other teachers who heard the rumors knew they wouldn’t last long.

Psychology teacher Russ Olcheske blames the rumors and opposition on change.

“Change brings about unfamiliarity and that makes humans stressed,” Olcheske said. “Also, many students are basing their opinion of him on what other students are saying.”

One of the recent changes that Billingslea has initiated is the hall sweeps. There are many different opinions among the teachers and students about the sweeps; Olcheske is one of the teachers who has said he likes the new rule. Others who oppose the change, worry that the punishment is too harsh.

“I like the hall sweeps,” Olcheske said. “The punishment may be a bit harsh for the first offense, but I like how Mr. Billingslea made it clear early in the year that he means business.

It’s easier to start tough and then ease up rather than start easy and then try to toughen up.”

Although the rumors fly, Billingslea holds nothing against the students of

HHS. He said he believes that being involved with students as much as possible helps them be more successful. Also, as he starts to be more accustomed to the school, he said he is impressed with the regard students have.

“My favorite thing about Holt is the respect that I see from a lot of the students and the respect they give to each other,” Billingslea said.

Olcheske recalls meeting Billingslea for the first time and said he came off as tough, but willing to help students.

“He seemed very professional and passionate about helping kids,” Olcheske said. “I knew right away he was going to be tough but fair at the same time.”

Senior Eric Rapier met with Billingslea to discuss the student section. Rapier said he finds him to be pleasant and understands that Billingslea is just trying to do his job.

“He’s a nice guy. We talked about

Photo by Kelsey Manas

5 minutes with the AP

Random fact about Mr. B: “I would like to learn to play the guitar and piano, and I’m a pretty good competitive swimmer.”

Michigan or Michigan State?: “I went to Michigan, but I live in Lansing, so I’d have to say I’m impartial. Florida State is my team.”

Favorite sport to watch: “I’m too competitive to spectate in any sport, but I like to participate in football, swimming, baseball, bowling and volleyball.”

High school jobs: “I worked at Taco Bell, did lawn service and I was a lifeguard.” the student section and he was very understanding and cool,” Rapier said.

“He’s trying to enforce the rules so people take him seriously; it’s his job.”

Billingslea lives in Lansing and has three boys. In his free time he values spending time with his family. He also enjoys exercising, swimming and other sports.

If you haven’t met Billingslea yet, Olcheske suggests that students reach out and introduce themselves, before believing rumors.

“I encourage everyone to introduce themselves to Mr. Billingslea and get to know him before they cast judgment,” Olcheske said.



No neon. No skinny jeans. No holding hands. Most students have heard the rumors about new Assistant Principal Christopher Billingslea and his “new rules.”

“I hate neon!” Billingslea joked.

“Really though, I have no problem with neon; neon’s fine. I’ve heard I suspend for wearing neon, holding hands and wearing skinny jeans. Also that I’m trying to change the school colors.”

These so-called “rules” came as a shock for students because many students were used to the former Assistant Principal Rick Couturier.

Billingslea previously worked at Jackson High. Billingslea is from Detroit and attended Osborn High School in Detroit. He graduated from Eastern Michigan University with a bachelor’s degree and received two master’s degrees from Concordia and Waldon Universities.

Having been to his fair share of schools, Billingslea is accustomed to handling rumors. He said he treats rumors as jokes and laughs them off, knowing they’re not true. If anyone has any other questions or concerns, Billingslea invites all students to come have a conversation with him.

“I ignore it all because I know

Rumors have been spreading about new Assistant Principal Christopher Billingslea. However, he has been willing to take the time to get to know the student body.

Features

9

Holt High School Ramparts

October 2010

The rhyme and reason to your favorite music Benjamin Gates

What draws people to the music they listen to?

staff writer

F

rom rap to rock, classical to country, students and staff show an interest in an array of music styles. 97.5 FM junkies roam the halls, indie lovers hum their tunes, and social studies teacher Robert Dozier cranks the bass.

But what exactly draws people to the songs they listen to?

What elements of music are the most appealing?

When senior Adam Lansdell pops in his headphones, alternative music commonly flows out the speakers. Artists such as Radiohead, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Kid Cudi, Kings of Leon and MGMT attract Lansdell to the genre.

“The music is more complex and laid back. It’s not what you typically hear, and I find the artists to be generally more creative with their sound,” Lansdell said.

Lansdell finds himself drawn by the overall composition of a song, the blending of beats and melodies to show an artist’s true style.

“I feel generally it’s the overall creativity of the way things are composed,” Lansdell said.

Lansdell said he is turned off by songs that appear to be forced or have unoriginal lyrics, tending to create little importance to any individual on a personal level.

“There has to be some kind of personal connection behind the messages,” Lansdell said The sounds of Vivaldi, Bellini, and Marcello play in the mind of senior and HHS band member Andrew Shutt. What could be seen as a lost style of music to many students, attracts Shutt as he marches to his own beat. Shutt is drawn into the relaxation and passion classical music brings to him.

Photo illustration by Benjamin Gates

“I find that most people don’t usually prefer classical music because it lulls them to sleep. It’s much more complex and interesting to listen to than other forms of music,” Shutt said.

Shutt sees much importance in the melody of songs, displayed perfectly in the masterpieces of Johann Sebastian Bach, in which classical music provides many layers of melody.

“You can change music in tempo and dynamics in an infinite

amount of ways, but it cannot be good music unless there is a good melody to hold it all together,” Shutt said.

Spanish teacher Amy Sheppard will often listen to classical music to calm down, especially after a hectic day of teaching.

“It depends on my mood,” Sheppard said.

When feeling more fun and energized she listens to 94.1 FM, along with 88.9 FM to get her dose of alternative music.

Sheppard said she enjoys all music, minus screamo (a more aggressive genre of music with screaming vocalist). Aside from that, lyrics from Shakira, Gnarles Barkley, Flight of the Conchords, The Cure and many others attract Sheppard.

“I like thoughtful lyrics. Provoking lyrics,” Sheppard said.

Junior Justin Whitlock agrees on the importance of lyrics.

“They have to make sense, or at least be relevant,” said Whitlock.

Whitlock has developed his appreciation of rap and R&B by his surroundings and culture.

“Where you come from sometimes dictates the type of music you like,” Beats and lyrics from Gucci Mane, Boosie, R. Kelly, Trae, and Waka Flocka Flame compel him to the genre.

“Music is different for everybody. We all see, hear, feel and are raised different,” HHS has created one big melting pot of music aficionados.

Ranging from all styles and genres, students and staff are lured into certain songs for various reasons and take pride in their own, original music taste.

Whether it’s rap, rock, classical or country, appeal to music is personal to each individual and is uniquely displayed within the walls of HHS.

Grub-a-dub-dub: who’s got the best sub?

Taking on the search for the best sub sandwich in town Will Thurston staff writer Who makes the best sub sandwich? The one that has the best meat complimented by the right toppings that when fused together with the right bread creates a masterpiece?

I made it my mission to find the place that has subs that are made perfect down to the last detail.

Jersey Giant’s main sub sandwich is “The Jersey Giant,” which contains ham, capicola, salami, provolone cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, salt, pepper, vinegar and oil. (Mustard, mayo, hot peppers and other spices can also be used).

You can get a six-inch or a footlong. At first glance, I noticed the bread was very fluffy and there was a lot of bread at the end of the sub.

The meat and cheese hung off the edge.

As a result I could taste just as much bread as

the meat and toppings, and it was a little messy.

The bread tasted good, but the sub was a little dry. The meat was proportioned well; there was a lot of meat and the veggies were proportioned well, too.

The subs are pricey. For footlongs, the Jersey Giant was $6.99, and all of the subs range from $6.59 to $9.79.

Rating: 

Jimmy John’s The “Italian Night Club” is Jimmy Johns’ most popular sandwich. This sub comes with salami, capicola, smoked ham, provolone cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, mayo and their homemade vinaigrette. Hot peppers can also be added.

The bread is thinner than Jersey Giant and Subway and is more compact.

The veggies and other toppings are put in the middle of the meat and cheese, and it’s folded and then put into the bread.

This helps the meat blend well with the toppings and makes sure the sub is not dry.

However, there are far too many onions which dominate the sandwich.

There are seven eight-inch subs for $4.25 and ten 12-inch subs for $5.25. Also, Jimmy John’s delivers, which sets it apart from all the other sub shops.

Rating 

Quiznos’ featured sub is the “Classic Italian” that has ham, salami, pepperoni, capicola, mozzarella cheese, black olives, lettuce, tomatoes, red onions, and red wine vinaigrette.

It looked a little messy because the vinaigrette was all over the top of the bread. The bread was not soggy, though; it was toasted and crispy. It was by far the best bread out of all the sub shops.

The sandwich was very moist and not dry at all but had a little too much vinaigrette. The meat was complimented by the rich-tasting veggies that didn’t dominate the sandwich but contributed to overall taste. It had just the right amount of meat and cheese.

There is a variety of different types of subs ranging in price from $4.39 to $7.49. There are also deli subs, torpedoes, bullets and sammies (smaller subs on different bread). Those prices range from $2.79 to $5. Also, Quiznos has a new bread option, artisan bread, which is healthier bread for those who watch what they eat.

Rating: 

The turkey breast sub is the most purchased sandwich at Subway. It generally is served with turkey, provolone cheese, tomato,

lettuce, green peppers, mayo, mustard and pepper.

There are also a plethora of other toppings that can be added. The bread can be toasted as well, if desired.

The bread is fluffy but does not have a dominating taste. The vegetables tasted fresh and livened up the sandwich, which lacked a variety and quantity of meat.

It was a little dry in spots but moist enough to not be a problem. The mustard added a nice kick.

Subway is famous for its $5 footlong subs.

They also have other featured subs that are a little more expensive.

Healthier subs are available as well, and Subway has a guide of what to put on the subs to eat healthier at the restaurant.

Rating: 

After the long journey of trying to find the perfect sub that meets the criteria of taste, price, options, varieties, healthiness and customer service Ramparts has concluded that Quiznos is the best place to get subs. It tasted the best, had reasonable prices, has many options of toppings, a lot of varieties of sandwiches, and had healthy choices.

10

October 2010

Connecting the Dots

Jacqui Marpa

Teacher by day, superhero by night

H

ave your teachers been acting peculiar over the past few days? Are there any unusual wounds or scars on their faces, or on their arms? Well, guess what? They might be boring teachers by day, and cool superheroes by night.

Before you jump to any conclusions, take the time to consider the following: Are they bitter? If they are, it’s because superheroes don’t want the people they love to get hurt so they hide their tender loving care by being bitter and strict to the people that the superheroes care for. This keeps their arch nemesis from threatening and hurting innocent people in case the villain knows the real identity of the masked vigilante. Severus Snape of the Harry Potter series acts very cold and strict to Harry Potter, but in truth, he looks out for him due to his affection for Potter’s mother.

Do they have interesting wardrobes?

Are they wearing random bright gloves? How about a black mask? If you have seen them wearing these, they must have forgotten to change into their conservative teacher clothes from their flamboyant superhero costumes.

Spiderman and Daredevil have been in similar circumstances where they forgot to change into their regular clothes from their alter-ego’s clothing.

Do your teachers look haggard? Do they complain about how they didn’t enough sleep last night? If they do, it’s because they have been up all night fighting crime and keeping the city safe from harm, not to mention they still have to correct our schoolwork and tests around that time too. Batman encountered this in “Batman: The Dark Knight” where he was sleeping during an important meeting in his office.

If you have made any of these unusual observations about your teachers, maybe it’s time to pay attention in class and give respect to the unsung heroes who have been saving our lives from imperial danger -- or should we do all of these things anyway regardless of whether our teachers really are superheroes?

Think about it.

Are you catching enough Z’s?

Features Holt High School Ramparts

Sleep Habits

Ramparts surveyed students, on their sleep habits.

How many hours of sleep do you usually get on a school night?

Research says many students suffer from lack of sleep Kailey Kraushaar staff writer Hitting the snooze button is the first decision that many students make every day. Whether they wake up at 5:30 or at 7:05, students seem to always feel tired in the morning due to lack of sleep.

“When I wake up in the morning, I feel drowsy and like I don’t want to get out of bed,” sophomore Jessica Curry said.

This feeling is popular among students due to lack of sleep, which occurs in 85 percent of teenagers according to WebMD.com.

Experts say that teenagers need at least nine hours of sleep at night, and some can need as many as ten hours. Most students don’t meet such a requirement. The effects of lack of sleep, however, don’t just affect teens in the short term, making them drowsy the next day. Continuously not getting enough sleep can cause early aging, weight gain and lack of attention, according to the National Sleep Fo u n d a t i o n , a n o r g a n i z a t i o n dedicated to informing people about the importance of sleep.

Some students think that lack of sleep simply makes them tired,

and they can just catch up on sleep during the weekends. However, not getting enough sleep can cause more serious side effects such as higher levels of reaction to stress, a poor immune system and, mood swings, etc. This means that the individual starts losing his “self control”. This is due lack of sleep suppressing hormones in the body, especially in teenagers.

Not getting enough sleep throws off the body’s internal clock, which interferes with numerous bodily functions, and makes it hard to get through the day.

While dozing off during chemistry, or catching a few z’s in algebra, sleeping in class happens to many students daily.

“There’s a natural occurrence when people fall asleep in class, they miss material and fall behind,” math teacher Dave Hildebrandt said.

According to the National Sleep Foundation, there are over 100,000 car crashes a year involved with drivers falling asleep at the wheel, a dangerous result of chronic lack of sleep. This means that the late night video game habit or early study sessions may hurt not only students, but others around them.

10.5 hours 1% 8-10 hours 5.5-7.5 hours

24%

5 hours or less 9%

66.6%

Do you ever fall asleep in class?

No 45% Photo by Kailey Kraushaar

Waking up early for school causes students to be drowsy in the morning.

Students have different reasons for not getting adequate amounts of sleep at night, depending on their schedules and personal preferences.

“I love the night,” senior Chris Yu said. “It’s quiet, calm and dark. I usually stay up because of procrastination, having homework or just having a busy day.”

Homework keeps many students up past their bedtimes, so it is suggested that teenagers practice time management so they can achieve more sleep during the night.

“Homew ork ke eps me from getting enough sleep,” junior

Photo by Kailey Kraushaar

Sleeping in class is a common result of students not getting enough sleep. Along with fatigue, lack of sleep can lead to a poor ability to focus and an increase in stress levels. Experts say students need at least nine hours of sleep.

Yes 55%

Source: Ramparts survey of 150 students.

Shannon Kraemer said. “I have extra-curriculars during the day, and I have to do my homework at night.”

For those who do homework late or have busy schedules, sleep is just as important as it is for those who have lots of free time. However, it’s harder to get. The National Sleep Foundation suggests that taking naps, while they don’t replace good nighttime sleep, can help give students energy and make them work more efficiently.

“I take naps all the time in the day,” senior Chris Yu said.

For most students, the perfect nap is less than a half hour. A nap longer than half an hour can cause sleep inertia, or a feeling of tiredness after waking up, due to entering deep sleep cycles.

Long naps or naps later in the day can affect nighttime sleep, if they last too long as well, so keeping naps shorter is beneficial.

The battle of tiredness is one that the typical student faces every morning, afternoon and evening.

“I don’t think anyone in high school gets enough sleep, but we’re sort of used to it, so it doesn’t seem like a problem anymore,” Kraemer said.

However, more negative effects of lack of sleep continue to surface through research, confir ming that sleep is vital to growth and development during teen years.

Whether it’s through a solid nine hours of sleep at night or a few short naps during the day, it’s important that teens are getting enough sleep.

Features

11

Holt High School Ramparts

October 2010

Photo by Jordan Rakas

Holding his Droid X, senior Hunter Osborn uses one of the most popular smartphones. Many students that were asked in a recent survery said that they would prefer the Droid over both the other smartphones, the iPhone and the Blackberry, if they were able to choose which one to have.

A closer look at today’s hottest new phones, Phone Preferences plus the ups and downs along with them.

Ramparts surveyed students on what type of smartphone they prefer to have in their hands.

What smartphone do you like the best?

16% Blackberry

42% Droid

42% iPhone

If you don’t own a smartphone, what one would you choose to have?

4% Blackberry 55% Droid

41% iPhone

Source: Ramparts survey of 120 students

Jordan Rakas staff writer What is a smartphone? A phone that does more than just call. A phone that acts more like a computer, that stretches the technological boundaries. Smartphones are sweeping the nation and making their way into the school.

But which is the smartest?

Since the first iPhone emerged in 2007, the number of smartphones has increased dramatically. The top three that students are talking about are the Android, iPhone and Blackberry. It’s time to find out what makes these devices so much better than the rest, and which rises to the top.

The new iPhone 4g has the highest resolution of any smartphone on the market.

Its retina display is 960 by 640 pixels. It has two cameras, one on the front and one on the back. With its newest feature, video chatting, and its ability to multitask, it’s considered by

reviewers to be the hottest smartphone today.

However, nothing is perfect.

Senior Josh Green has an iPhone and says he loves being able to access email and Facebook in the palm of his hand.

“The iPhone gives you everything you need in your wildest dreams and it does it fast,” Green said. “Sometimes it freezes.”

Another problem found with the iPhone is that Safari, the Internet launcher, sometimes slows down and sites can take a while to load.

This is mainly due to the amount of data loaded onto this device and the quality of the wireless Internet it’s using.

The newest Android, the Droid X, is very similar to the iPhone. However, it has a larger screen at 4.3 inches. It rises above Apple’s newest smartphone with an additional feature.

The Droid X allows other devices to use its WiFi connection making it a “mobile hotspot.”

The connection works the same as going to a Starbucks and getting online.

Senior Hunter Osborn just bought the new

Droid and said he can’t get enough. He found only one potential flaw.

“There are so many features I’m still discovering things this phone can do,” Osborn said, “It’s very big which is not for everyone.”

According to reviews, the Droid X can also be slow at picture taking and the quality isn’t as good as the iPhone 4.

The Blackberry has been around longer than the others and continues to get better.

Blackberry Torch is the newest model and has both a touch screen and keyboard. It is very business-oriented and designed to allow people at all levels in the business world to have access to their job. Many owners of this smartphone use Blackberry Messaging (BBM) to communicate.

BBM is like instant messaging on the computer between Blackberrys.

Junior Alexis Akers has a one and says she loves it, despite how quickly it dies.

“I don’t like iPhones, but I love my Blackberry.

My favorite thing to do with it is get online,” Akers said.

Another big problem found is its inability to send and receive messages at times. This happens when the mobile device can’t access your data generally due to weak signal strength.

Despite all the buzz over these latest and greatest devices, a recent Ramparts survey of 120 students showed that 64 percent do not have them. But with the way this market is growing, it seems it’s only a matter of time.

Photo by apple.com Used with permisson.



The Hot Spot

12

October 2010

Holt High School Ramparts

Television shows worth falling for this season The top three programs this autumn Ryan Carrier staff writer After a draining day full of school and after school activities, there is nothing better than plopping down in your favorite chair, picking up the remote, and turning the TV to your favorite show. Network television offers numerous shows every night, but only certain shows are students’ favorites and consistently watched week to week. Some of students’ favorites are “Glee”, “Chuck”, and “The Big Bang Theory.”

Glee

After an award-winning first season, “Glee” is a pop-culture phenomenon. As TV’s only musical comedy, it brings something unique to viewers, hooking them with new song covers each week.

“Glee” is staged in a fictional school called McKinley High School, where Will Schuester, a young and optimistic teacher, is intent on restoring the McKinley High Glee Club, New Directions, to its former glory. New Directions in season one was headed by two characters that had a superstar quality: Finn (Cory Monteith), the popular quarterback with a soothing voice, and Rachel (Lea Michele), the

stardom-bound pitch-perfect singer.

Season two brings in a few new faces to shake things up within New Directions. Rachel doesn’t see too kindly to a foreign exchange student with a big voice named Sunshine (Charice), and a football player named Sam Evans (Chord Overstreet) brings on some romance within the group. “Glee” follows the students as they survive McKinley High, randomly belting out a song like any other glee club would.

Junior Erin Biel says she enjoys the randomness of “Glee”, breaking out into ridiculous songs whether it makes sense with the scene or not.

“I hate to love the show. It is a guilty pleasure,” Biel said.

Season two focuses on New Direction’s desire to defeat their arch rivals Vocal Adrenaline and make it back to states.

“Glee” airs on FOX, every Tuesday from 8-9 p.m.

Chuck

“Chuck” is a witty action adventure show doubling as a comedy. Chuck Bartowski (Zachary Levi) was an everyday computer geek in the “Nerd Herd” at the local Buy-More electronic store, that is until he received an encrypted e-mail from an old friend.

The e-mail contained government secrets, which Chuck accidently downloaded and embedded in his brain. The once Buy-More tech geek now had the fate of the world in his hands, needing to use his unique information to fight assassins and

Photo by FoxFlash.com. Used with permission.

“Glee” is one of students’ favorite programs this fall. Season two brings in new members and new drama to the New Directions glee club. international terrorists.

Along with the help of Major John Casey (Adam Baldwin) and his dream girl and partner Sarah Walker (Yvonne Strahovski), Chuck was transformed into a top of the notch spy. With the start of season three, those closest to Chuck, co-worker and best friend Morgan (Joshua Gomez) and his supportive sister Ellie (Sarah Lancaster), know Chuck’s secret, making him have to try harder to keep his spy life separate from his personal life.

Junior Michael Hua is stuck on the comedic action and adventure that “Chuck” brings every week. Hua said that Morgan brings the comedy to the show because he always gets in the way of things.

“I like the plot because it keeps changing,” Hua said. “Each epsisode Chuck has to get terrorists, but there are always different concepts and plot twists that get in the way.”

According to the Fall TV Preview of “Entertainment Weekly”, the heart of season three is Chuck’s search to find his mother who is thought to be a spy as well. The new season will also bring Chuck into a relationship with his dream girl Sarah.

“Chuck” airs on NBC Mondays from 8-9 p.m.

The Big Bang Theory

Currently in its fourth season, “The Big Bang Theory” is a comedy playing off the awkward relationships b e t w e e n t w o Ca l t e c h g e n i u s physicists Sheldon (Jim Parsons) and

Leonard (Johny Galecki), and Penny (Kaley Cuoco ), a blonde waitress that lives next door. Penny begins to bring about change in Leonard’s awkward social skills as they start a relationship, but Sheldon is too brilliant to act “normal” socially.

Adding a living-at-home aerospace engineer named Howard (Simon Helberg) and an astrophysicist named Rajesh who is afraid to talk to women (Kunal Nayyar) to the group of friends puts their strange behavior over the top.

The show follows the gang of friends through their daily lives, showcasing all of the socially awkward and geeky aspects. Business teacher Dan Knechtel tunes in every week to “The Big Bang Theory” because he likes the uniqueness of the show by portraying a positive and funny view of being geeky.

Knechtel’s favorite character in “The Big Bang Theory” is Raj. “I just like his idiosyncrasies, his whispering and having to have a drink to have the courage to talk to girls,” Knechtel said.

Season four brings about a new experience for Sheldon when Amy Farrah Fowler (Mayim Bialik) is brought back after their mysterious encounter at the end of season 3.

Amy is almost an identical version of Sheldon, except a girl, and she is perfect to be Sheldon’s girlfriend.

“The Big Bang Theory” airs on CBS Thursdays at 8-8:30 p.m.

Students brew up production of ‘Black Coffee’ Monty Bishop returns to directing plays this fall Hannan Gedeon staff writer

Vocal music director Monty Bishop and his actors and actresses are preparing to perform the play “Black Coffee” on November 4-7 and 11-14.

They have put a great amount of hard work and time into it, practicing two hours Monday through Friday, 3-5 p.m.

Bishop says Agatha Christie, the author of “Black Coffee,” caught his attention in high school. It’s the only play in which she features the detective made famous in her novels, Hercule Poirot.

Sir Claude creates an explosive formula that

Photo by Hannan Gedeon

Members of the cast of “Black Coffee” rehearse for an upcoming performance. The production will run for the first two weekends in November. has been stolen; he calls for Hercule Poirot, the detective to investigate the whole situation. After Sir Claude demands that the lights be turned off, he expects the person that has stolen the formula to return it with no harm done. When

the lights come back on, Sir Claude is found dead, and Poirot continues on with the investigation suspecting many things.

Bishop said he has directed many plays such as, “Mash,” “Do you trust your boyfriend,” “Sugar,” and “Mercy”. He likes many aspects about directing plays, but there seems to be one that stands out the most.

“What I like most about directing, is when the light goes on in the eyes of my students,” Bishop said.

Bishop’s students also seem to have a positive outlook on their director.

“I think Mr. Bishop’s directing is very unique and will be a good experience with all the changes of changing directors from Mrs. Childers to Mr. Bishop,” senior Becca Williams said.

Bishop’s students couldn’t choose just one thing they like about his directing.

“I like that he makes his directions clear and also is careful to make you not feel insecure,” senior Elizabeth Weir said.

Other students have something else they like

most about his directing.

“He is very helpful with stage directions,” senior J.P. Zippi said.

Bishop being one of the positive things about the play comes positive energy within the characters and their outlook on the play.

“I think it’s a fun play and I am excited to perform it,” Zippi said.

Other characters in the play may have different positive takes on it.

“I think it’s interesting because we haven’t really done anything like it,” Weir said.

“Black Coffee” is a murder mystery filled with drama and suspense.

Two different casts will perform, one each weekend, in the Margaret Livensparger Theater.

Show dates are November 4-6 at 7 p.m., November 7 at 2 p.m., November 11-13 at 7 p.m. and November 14 at 2 p.m.

“Black Coffee” ticket prices are $5 for senior citizens and students and $7 for regular admission.

The HPS Golden passes will not be accepted.

The Hot Spot

13

Holt High School Ramparts

October 2010

Students profit from musical talents My Tunes Careers form as students think graduation

Joey Myers staff writer In a time when most students are looking for their identity and college, some students have already started a career that could last them a lifetime. Senior Gerald Render and junior Grant Woell love music. They’re so passionate that they have already gone the extra step and written music that is available on iTunes.

Render has been writing lyrics to songs for many years and has finally puts his talents up to the real test by going public. Render wrote and produced his hit single “Like a Robot” under the artist name Kid Kool. The Rap/Rock song has been gaining popularity on iTunes ever since it hit the market in September. Render’s motivation comes from two main parties: rock and roller Lenny Kravitz and the world renowned hip/hop artist Lil’ Wayne. Render’s focus is on being a unique artist.

“When you start being the same as everyone else and your music starts to reflect that, then you stop understanding the meaning of artist,” Render said of his music and personal drive.

One day, Render hopes to be living in southern California when he gets older. He always dreams of days where he wins Grammy awards for his music.

“I want big bank!” Render said.

Photos by Joey Myers

Many artists go to a special place or hangout with a current group of friends to get inspiration for their next song, but in the case of Render, he doesn’t even have to leave the school. Render said his motivation for his songs comes from the poetry he writes in class.

Render has a new album in the works which will be released to the public shortly. Render would also like to let the public know that he is looking for new band members to create a rap/ rock group.

Woell takes his guitar most everywhere he goes.

On his trips down south to Florida and up north to Arcadia, Michigan one can probably find Woell playing away on an acoustic riff. Rock and roller Woell writes his songs in relaxing places where he likes to hang out. This offers Woell a chance to write.

“I write my songs about summer and just being chill,” Woell said about his music.

Woell finds his motivation when hanging out with friends and taking long vacations. Woell likes

to do these things because that is his motivation for his music- to be creative.

Woell also finds his motivation from similar bands with similar sounds, acoustic rock/pop, groups like The Rocket Summer and Reliant K. Woell does wish to pursue this for his lifetime career and wants this to carry him through his lifetime so that he does not have to retire, but to rock out until one day when he can’t rock anymore. He wants his fan base to grow throughout his career, so that everybody knows who he is.

In terms of length on iTunes Woell has been on iTunes longer than Render and has a full album available. Woell has sold approximately 250 copies of his album on iTunes, and about 300 hard copies since the CD hit the market in April.

For more information on Woell and his music, fans can visit his website www .grantwoell.com.

As far as the process for entering iTunes, both Woell and Render answered differently. Woell has producers who he works with; they send out his music to Apple and get the music on iTunes for all to hear. Render, on the other hand did it the old fashioned selling partial rights of his song t o Int e r s c o p e Distribution, who from there sends his song out to numerous online websites and music sources.

HALO: Reach-ing out to students Students say video game is well worth the wait Anna Pavlik

staff writer A new game exclusively for Xbox 360 that was released last September 14 was sold out in more than 25 countries world-wide, with over three million copies sold during launch day.

Bungie, the developers of the main Halo trilogy games have completed their Halo series with Halo: Reach. It’s the new improved sequel to the previous three Halo games. Spartans, which are custom made characters created by the players, are now on a new planet named “Reach”. What made the Xbox 360 fans excited for the game are the new improvements from the previous Halo’s.

“It ’s way better because you can completely customize your Spartans, it has a built in currency system, and the campaign

mode is the best out of all the Halo’s,” junior Dan Romigh said.

Between multi-player, firefight, forge and campaign mode, there seems to be hours and hours of Halo for players to conquer. What appeals to some players is the online option called Xbox Live, where players can talk to friends over a microphone and play the game with them.

“Multi-player online is my favorite because I can play with friends without my friends actually being here,” Romigh said.

Romigh said he has no complaints about the new Halo game and he even pre-ordered it to make sure he’s one of the first people to own the game. His friend junior Mark Dudley doesn’t have any complaints about the game either.

“I believe that the game was created to the best of the makers’ ability,” Dudley said.

Dudley said he owns and has played all of the games. He would rank them around the same, but he’s glad he bought the new Halo game.

However, senior Taylor Troutt said she believes Halo:Reach is the best so far out of all the other Halo’s she’s played.

Time spent on video games

Students were surveyed to see how much time they spend a day playing video games.

4.58% three hours

9.17% four hours plus

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

What’s stuck in business teacher Aaron Smith’s head?

Style of music: “Classic Rock. The Who, Pink Floyd, The Kinks, Aerosmith.”

“Who Are You?” by The Who “It’s about change and change is always happening, plus the youth always thinks it’s about them.”

“Walk This Way” by Aerosmith “For some reason it reminds me of high school.”

“Sun On a Crazy Diamond” by Pink Floyd “When I play it in class, it makes the kids mellower.”

“Blitzkreig Bop” by The Ramones “Because it gives you energy.”

What’s stuck in junior Jenna Payne’s head?

Style of music: “70’s and 80’s. My dad always listens to it, and it caught me.”

“10 Years Gone” by Led Zeppelin “It’s cool and relaxing. I like the guitar in it.”

“Speechless” by Lady Gaga “It shows that Lady Gaga can sing.”

10.68% two hours 30.53% one hour

45.04% never play

Source: Ramparts survey of 131 students Infographic by Joey Myers

“I think it’s fun because it’s different than most video games,” Troutt said. “It’s better because of the graphics the new one has.”

Halo: Reach is sold in multiple stores such as Game Stop, Target and Wal-Mart for $59.99, but Dudley said that it was well worth the money he paid.

“Light My Fire” by The Doors “It’s just cool, I guess.”

“Pinball Wizard” by The Who “It’s a classic.”

“Here Comes The Sun” by The Beatles “It’s so happy. How could you not like it.”

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

October 2010

The Press Box GIRLS CROSS COUNTRY record: 3-3 league standing: N/A season highlight: Ruth’s Race.

The girl’s team had more to race for on October 5 than the boys. They were racing for coach Ruth Pridgeon, who passed away May 11. in their words: “Ruth’s Race was our best race of the year [so far], it was bigger than just another race,” senior Brooke Smythe said.

BOYS CROSS COUNTRY

record: 4-2 league standing: N/A season highlight: Ruth’s Race. The boy’s team beat conference rival and championship foe Grand Ledge on October 5. in their words: “The BIG one! It was big to beat GL on a day like that,” coach Dave Foy said.

CHEERLEADING

season highlight: “My favorite part of being on the team is bonding with everyone and how close we get by the end of the season,” senior Morgan Counselor said. in their words: “It was fun to get to know all the girls at the beginning of the season.

The pep assembly was nervewracking at the beginning, but at the end it turned out to be lots of fun,” senior Mallory Dickinson said.

DANCE TEAM

season highlight: “Our season highlight so far was the pep assembly. Everybody enjoyed us; we got a good reaction from the crowd,” junior Alyssa Robinson said. in their words: “The best part about this year has been how well we all get along and how much we get accomplished,” said sophomore Allison Nastally said.

GIRLS GOLF

record: 14-1 league standing: First place season highlight: “We became a family over the season and we had each others’ back,” junior Lauren Strong said. in their words: “This was our best team ever. We are all very talented and worked well together,” senior Haley Bandt said.

Holt High School Ramparts

Students play rival school in rematch Volleyball team ends season with game against Grand Ledge Stephanie Le staff writer As their season comes to a close, the varsity volleyball team looks back on the past couple of months with no regrets.

The girls played a near undefeated season in the conference, with a current record of 7-3. They also have two first place trophies under their belt and are eager to win more.

The team hopes to win the rematch against Grand Ledge. They lost to their foes in a nail biting five game set on September 30, one of their only losses in the conference. The scores of the five game set against Grand Ledge were 25-17, 25-22, 23-25, 26-28, and 13-15.

Coming into the season, the team was underrated by their opponents after losing six seniors the year before. Returning second-year coach Kellie Sweitzer used this to her advantage.

“People underestimate us. When they play us they are surprised by our talent and how well we play,” Sweitzer said.

With a diverse roster of five seniors, three juniors, and four sophomores, the team reaches across the high school age spectrum. Despite the different ages in the group, the girls had no problem bonding

Photo by Stephanie Le

Volleyball players (from left) senior Kyla Walworth and juniors Haley Powers and Tayler Peiffer discuss strategy at their game against Okemos on September 28. The girls say that teamwork is one of their best attributes

together as a team.

“All the players are really different, but we are still really close,” senior Devan Walworth said.

Walworth said that what really makes this season differ from past seasons is that the team members are equally as good as one another.

Sophomore Marisa Dumond said that the players’ teamwork was one of their strengths. She said that they all play their positions well and they don’t have one star player.

“So many different people play different positions; we really are a pretty even team,” junior

Haley Powers said.

Powers also said the team works hard and plays with a lot of heart. She said that the team was basically a family on the court.

Junior Lauren Maier said losing to Grand Ledge was her only regret of the season. She hoped to correct this when they play again.

The game was October 28 at 6:30 p.m. This was also senior night for the Rams and the breast cancer awareness fundraiser, Volley for the Cure.

“We’re going to show them how good we play,” Maier said. “We will finish at the top.”

Boys tennis team qualifies for states Players travel to Midland for state championships Iman Ben-Hamza staff writer After a one of best seasons to date, the varsity boys tennis team advanced to the state finals match on October 15-16 in Midland.

“This is every player and coach’s dream,” coach Russ Olcheske said. Since Olcheske took the position as coach in 2007, this is the first time the tennis team made it to the state tournament.

The players and coach agree that they noticed some big improvements in the team this year, which is shown in the 13-7-1 record up from the 9-11 record from 2009.

“We have improved as a team; we have the experienced guys and young guns to work hard,” junior Mike Hua said.

Making it to states and placing 15th out of 23 teams didn’t come easily. With one of the shortest seasons of all fall sports, the players needed to

show up to practice every day dedicated. The effort did not go unnoticed by the players or the coach.

“We’re doing the best we have ever done before,” senior Chris Yu said.

S o m e p laye rs sa i d t h e y saw p e rs o na l improvements in their game.

“I feel as a duo, me and Zach (Ray) have improved our net game,” Hua said “We have a new style of play – smashing balls at net.”

Many players said they have good memories of the season because of a favorite win or a new found strength.

“My favorite memories of this season have to be that we (Mike Hua) beat all the regional teams that we wanted to, and we got revenge on Grand Ledge.

We smashed them,” senior Zach Ray said.

But it is not all about the physical game in tennis, a mental toughness was needed to reach what the team had.

“They have a laid back approach that is good for tennis, which makes them not as nervous,” Olcheske said. “But they are competitive and really want to win as well.”

The team and the coach said a good work ethic is to credit much of this season’s success.

“Work hard; love the game,” junior Clayton Chronister said.

Photo by Mariah Massa

At the game against Jackson Lumen Christi, senior Chris Yu hits a backhand on September 1. This is the first time the team has advanced to states since 2006.

15

Sports

Holt High School Ramparts

Future plans bright for motivated player

Kenny Rogers shares his plans for football and college education Chloe Henley staff writer

For many high school students, playing football at the college level is a dream. For some students, it’s a dream come true.

After playing on varsity football for two years, senior Kenny Rogers committed to Central Michigan University in June for his academics and talent of football. As a striving, offensive line football player since fourth grade, he has worked hard to get him to where he is today. When offered a scholarship from Central Michigan University, Rogers finally had his work pay off for him.

Rogers chose CMU because of the education and the interest in their football team.

“Central and Ball State both offered me in June, but I wanted to stay in Michigan, and I like the team,” Rogers said.

Rogers said his love of the game has been what’s kept him going all these years and allowed him to make room for improvement. Coach Al Slamer said that Rogers has been working hard to be an inspiration for others and for himself.

“He is a good example of it’s not where you start, but it’s where you finish. Kenny is an excellent

Photo by Chloe Henley

Preparing himself for practice, senior Kenny Rogers makes his way to the field. Rogers will be attending CMU next fall to play football. young man who is a great role model for younger classmen,” Slamer said. “Some people lead in different ways and he does a tremendous job on and off the field. He volunteers at Washington Woods Middle School to mentor students as a positive role model.”

Rogers started out as a fourth string freshman and worked his way to the top. Not only does Rogers take time out of his day to volunteer, he also is there to be a role model.

“Kenny is always working hard from the field to the weight room. He is always giving a 110 percent, which makes me want to push myself harder,” junior teammate Tobin Egger said.

Slamer said that Rogers helps students strive to take after their role model especially if they worked hard to get there.

“My advice to younger classmen is to just keep working hard and take care of your school work,” Rogers said.

With underclassmen in mind, his work ethic has allowed him to encourage other players and students in the school.

“As a sophomore, this is my first year on varsity and seeing him get so far makes me want to get a scholarship,” teammate Christopher Morgan said.

On the field, Rogers is a great football player, but his work off of the field greatly affects his scholarship. Academics and the game of football both play a vital role in being offered a scholarship.

“Juggling school and sports actually makes it easier for me. School is a way for me to actually relax,” Rogers said.

Now that he has a scholarship, Rogers said it doesn’t allow him to work less, but just gives him time to relieve some of the stress.

Slamer says that in 32 years of coaching and 120 players earning scholarships, having already committed to a university lets the player just go play and have fun. The hard part is over and Rogers is able to enjoy his senior year with no worries.

“His scholarship allows him to relax and play. It takes pressure off of the player,” Slamer said.

Favorite college football teams

Students and staff give opinions on best teams in country Alex Sanford staff writer Many great college football teams have potential this year, but which one will come out on top in the country?

Students and teachers had differing opinions on which team they thought was the best.

Michigan State University was the favorite team picked out of a survey containing all of the college football teams in the Big Ten. This may just be because it is located close to Holt.

Social Studies teacher Russ Olcheske, an avid sports fan, talked about his favorite college football team.

“Everyone knows I’m from Grand Valley, but I really like MSU because they are blue collar and a hardworking team,” Olcheske said. “But I think Alabama will win the National Championship because of the depth in their running game.”

Despite being the varsity football coach, Al Slamer said he doesn’t follow collegiate sports like football that much.

“In truth, I really only follow the Rams in the regular season,” Slamer said. “I don’t have time to pay attention to college or professional football that much because I am so busy focusing on our high school team.”

Slamer does still have a prediction about who he thinks will win the National Championship.

“I would have thought Alabama would win again, but not after being beaten by South Carolina. It would be interesting, though, to see schools not in the big conference like Boise State, to win because they are well-coached and fast.”

Other students, such as junior Clayton Hosfield, a high school football player, said their favorite college teams are right out of the Big

STUDENTS’ FAVORITE BIG TEN TEAMS

Ramparts polled students to determine their favorite teams in

the Big Ten. The results are shown below.

Wisconsin 3% Ohio State 9%

Iowa 2%

U of M 18 %

Michigan State 68%

List of Big Ten teams (not in any specific order):

1. Illinois 2. Iowa 3. Michigan State 4. Northwestern 5. Pennsylvania State 6. Wisconsin 7. Indiana 8. Michigan 9. Minnesota 10. Ohio State 11. Purdue Infographic by Alex Sanford

Ten. “I like Michigan because I’ve always liked them since I was very young, and Denard ‘Shoelace’ Robinson is very good at running the ball up field,” Hosfield said. “I think Robinson even has a good chance of winning the Heisman Trophy this year because

he might break the record for rushing yards in a season.”

Even though the school is local, other students, such as Brandon Lovely, thought that MSU might actually result as National Champions because of their great offensive play and their undefeated season so far.

October 2010

The Press Press FOOTBALL

record: 5-3 league standing: CAAC season highlight: “My personal highlight was when I kicked a 52 yard field goal against Everett because it’s my longest field goal ever in a game and it broke the school record,” junior Evan Fischer said. in their words: “We played in the conference game against Grand Ledge, something we’ve all dreamt of since we were little kids, to play in a game as big as that one,” senior Mike Smith said.

BOYS SOCCER

record: 16-3-6 standing: Sixth in state by MHSSCA season highlight: “Beating Okemos was our season highlight because they are our rival and we are both ranked in states,” junior Ken Kruger said. in their words: “Our team goal is to make a great run again this year in playoffs,” senior captain Ryan Schooley said.

GIRLS SWIMMING AND DIVING

record: 2-6 league standing: CAAC season highlight: “The year has been really long hardworking, and really fun,” junior Emily Washabaugh said. in their words: “I would say that our biggest meet is the CAACs. And as a team, I think that we have done about the same as last year,” said junior Aaliyah Oliver

VOLLEYBALL

record: 6-3 league standing: Second place season highlight: We are were undefeated even though we had a big loss against Grand Ledge, and some close calls,” junior Haley Powers said. in their words: “Our biggest meet was against Grand Ledge.

And we have really improved as a team and as individuals,” junior Tayler Peiffer said.

BOYS TENNIS

record: 13-7-1 league standing: Third in CAAC season highlight: “Making it to states was a great achievement for us and we improved a lot throughout the season,” junior Mike Hua said.

Sports

Holt High School Ramparts

The water cooler Will Thurston

Shady Business

T

October 2010

Race is emotional event for runners

Meet dedicated to teacher and coach Cody Shattuck staff writer

Positive, supportive and i n f l u e nt ia l . She had a great personality and was a great person.

That is how the team members said they would describe the late cross country coach Ruth Pridgeon, who passed away on May 11 after a twomonth battle with pancreatic cancer.

She was 35 years old.

To honor Pridgeon, the cross country race on October 5 against Grand Ledge and New Covenant was named “Ruth’s Race.” A ceremony was held in tribute to Pridgeon before the race.

Ruth’s Race will be an annual event that will take place around Pridgeon’s birthday, which is October 2.

The team sported purple shirts in memory of Pridgeon. Fifteen of the top boys and girls wore purple uniforms. The goal of the race was also to help raise awareness for pancreatic cancer, as well as all cancers.

“I think just talking at the race will give the reason of why we are doing it and why it is important to raise

awareness for all cancers,” coach Pam Stafford said.

The team sold t-shirts to raise money for the Pancreatic Cancer Association Network (PanCAN), which helps to promote pancreatic cancer awareness.

Stafford, along with boys coach David Foy and coach Ross Malatinsky, all worked together to plan the event.

“It was a combination of all the cross country coaches who wanted to do something for Coach and for her birthday,” Stafford said.

Not only was Pridgeon the coach of track and cross country, she was a sixth grade teacher and a person who was viewed as a friend and family member by students and the cross country teams.

“She was my coach. She would always be there and she was a voice in my life by encouraging me and helping me,” sophomore Megan Myers said.

The team also said that they will keep her in their minds every race, not just this one.

“Coach Pr idgeon w ill be remembered in a bunch of ways.

She started the Holt Track Club, and we named a race after her,” senior captain Miles Ranke said. “In the races, she was always cheering. You could always pick her out of the crowd.”

The team members as well as the

Photo by Joey Myers

(From left to right) Sophomores Allie Buxton, Megan Myers and Brittany Swejoski run “Ruth’s Race” on October 5 in memory of their coach. coaches said they hold memories of Pridgeon.

“Not only will she be remembered as a coach, but also as a friend, a teacher and part of the family,” junior captain Autumn Baker said.

Running in the race was not open to the public but may be in the future, the coaches have said. The coaches are planning to have a race that is open to the public to raise money for pancreatic cancer research.

A plaque currently hangs next to a green bench out at the cross country

Don’t Miss This

Cross Country

October 30 Both the boys and girls varsity cross country teams will compete in the MHSAA Regional Meet tomorrow, October 30 at Portage.

The runners are competing both as a team and individually to qualify for the state meet at Michigan International Speedway on November 6. The boys will run at 2:30 p.m. and the girls will run at 3:10 p.m.

Girls Swimming November 5 6

The girls swimming and diving team is competing with the other teams in the league at the two-day CAAC meet. It starts on Friday, November 5 at 4 p.m. and continues on Saturday, November 6 at 2 p.m. Where the meet will be held is to be determined.

Girls Volleyball November 2

The volleyball team starts their first round of the playoffs on Tuesday, November 2 at 6 p.m. at the HHS gym. Who they play is to be determined.



his college football season there seem to be many players who are being investigated for allegedly illegally interacting with agents, more than I can remember in any season.

Also, the recent Sports Illustrated article featuring now banned agent Josh Luchs has raised many eyebrows on how prevalent agents paying college athletes is and for how long this practice has been going on.

Luchs himself admitted to paying many players since the 1990s.

Well, to clarify, an agent is basically a lawyer for athletes. Agents want to recruit college football players as clients because if they sign with them the agent makes a certain amount of money off whatever the athlete gets paid.

The athlete needs the agent because a good agent can help them get drafted and help negotiate contracts. The agents all battle for the top recruits because the better the player, the more money they will make.

That is where the recruiting gets ugly. It is against NCAA rules to give athletes money or provide services for them. Agents do this to help ensure that the athlete will become their client. How is a kid who doesn’t have a lot of money supposed to say no to a lot of money being thrown at them? Some do, but a lot do not.

Can you blame the kid? Can you blame the schools, who don’t really know what’s going on? Because that’s who the NCAA is punishing. Players are suspended. Teams like USC get banned from playing in bowl games and lose scholarships. The agents are the ones who need to be cracked down on, but it’s too hard for anyone to know it’s happening.

S o, t h e N C A A n e e d s m o re restrictions for the agents; limit their interaction with the players. And they need to punish the player not the schools because the schools can’t control the situation. The agents need to be punished the harshest though to not make it such an easy decision to pay players.

Players will still get paid, but at least it will be tougher for the agents to do so and get away with it.

16

field to commemorate the late coach.

The race for Pridgeon featured a total of 54 runners on the Holt team: 24 girls, 30 boys. Many runners said the run was hard and really pushed them.

“It felt good. The race overall was very tough. It made us strive to do our best. The team did good,” junior Matt Snay said. “The atmosphere was really good. We had a lot of support.

The race for Pridgeon pushed the team overall.”