January Issue 2009 by Rochester Talon

January 2010 - Vo lume 72

- Issu e6

Inside This Issue

Haiti p.1-3 Hatchling The earthquake in Haiti leaves 200,000 + dead and millions displaced as help slowly begins to arrive.

Freshman Boy’s Basketball p.11 1 80 S.

Livernois

- Rochester High School - Rochester Hills M

Senior Megan Goethals takes first by a fraction of a second at the Footlocker Regional Championships

Her locker is strewn with streamers and balloons; students approach her throughout the day congratulating her on her win and sign the large card hanging off her locker door the Monday following the Footlocker National Championships. But newly crowned national and four-time state champion, senior Megan Goethals takes it all in stride. “Everyone at school was awesome,” Goethals said. “I got a ton of support from everyone, even people I didn’t know, so it was really cool!” After a nail-biting win, Goethals was featured in multiple media outlets. From Sports Illustrated, to Yahoo, to just about everything in between, Goethals seemed to be everywhere. “I am not really used to that part

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yet,” Goethals described about the fame that followed her win. “I prefer to kind of blend in, but that’s not really possible anymore!” By the end of the week, it was difficult to find someone who had not yet seen the miraculous finish. Being called the closest race in the history of the Footlocker Championships, the video of the last couple minutes is thrilling to see. And the suspense is not just limited to the audience; even

Megan Goethals races to the finish line at the Footlocker National Championships. She took home the national title, closing her banner season after winning both the state and regional titles. Source: http://www.footlockercc.com/

The freshman boys basketball team strives to improve their 4-6 record with hard work and dedication.

Goethals w a s surprised at the finish. “I was thinking that she was gone,” Goethals recalls about the last minutes of the race. “When we got to the three mile mark, I just started to sprint as hard as I could because I knew that even if I finished second, I wanted to know that I had given it my best shot. When I passed for first in the last few meters, it was the best feeling ever! Something that motivates me is the race. I know that when I race, I want to feel like I did everything I could to get there.” It is this dedication and constant need to push herself that sets Megan apart from other athletes and pushes others to train with as much drive as she does. “Training with Megan makes you do everything right,” junior and Footlocker Regional Championships teammate, Brook Handler said. “It

makes you remember the small stuff, like doing a complete active warmup, doing core and arm work-outs, and training consistently everyday. Training seven days a week, Goethals’ typical workout consists of a mile warm-up, followed by either a distance run of seven to nine miles or an interval workout and ending with some strides. “Megan inspires me to be more consistent,” Handler said about Goethals’ training regiment and work ethic. “She trains day in and day out and seeing her outside running, especially in this awful weather, inspires me to get outside and run everyday. I have never met anyone like her, she has dedicated her life to her passion and her passion is running.” And it is a passion that does not look like it will die out any time soon. When asked about her Olympic future, Goethals simply replies, “It’s my dream to run in the 2016 trials.” And knowing this champion, she is going to continue living her dream, taking any and all challenges in stride.

Rachel’s Challenge impacts student body As junior Alaina Lucio walks into the auditorium, she has no clue what to expect. She takes her seat and imagines the assembly to most likely be another typical anti-bullying presentation that she has endured periodically since grade school. Lucio was not expecting to hear about a brutal massacre that resulted in a family’s grief. She was not expecting to hear of one girl’s unconditional kindness and determination to change the world. But that is what she received on Friday Jan. 8 along with all freshman, sophomores and juniors at RHS when she attended Rachel’s Challenge. “[The assembly] was nothing like I thought it was going to be,” Lucio said. “I really enjoyed it.” Rachel’s Challenge, which came to be from the diaries of Rachel Scott, promotes kindness and compassion as a way to solve teen problems from bullying to suicide. Scott was the first to be killed during the attack at Columbine High School in Colorado on April 20, 1999. Her family then discovered Scott’s journals, which outlined challenges by which she was living by as well as accounts of her acts of kindness. The program was initially introduced to the RCS PTA by a family within the Rochester community. “[The Cloutier family] emphasized that it was a very powerful program that was touching the hearts of students and community members across the country (and world) and changing the cultural climate in schools,” PTA council president Mrs. Sally Anglim said. “Our immediate past president of PTA Council, Jennifer Berwick, attended a community night in Olivet last spring with other PTA members and came back very inspired to bring it to the students of RCS.” Assistant principal Mr. Bob Clark counselor Ms. Jennifer O’Toole helped bring the program to RHS that

Rachel’s Challenge will have a good response with students. “I think that any student that allowed themselves to be open to the message was changed by the assembly,” Ms. O’Toole said. “Hopefully, they were changed into positive action.” The program, which spanned over the period of one class hour, began by retelling the events specifically from the vantage point of Rachel’s brother Craig Scott, who not only dealt with his sisters sudden death, but also watched his two friends beside him get shot and killed while his life was spared. His experience left some students, like Lucio, heavily impacted. “What affected me the most was when Rachel’s brother was talking about what had happened to his friends,” Lucio said. “He was so close to being killed. I’m sure it was terrifying and horrible losing his friends as well as his sister. I thought about losing my brother like that and it really got to me.” Another part of the assembly that seemed to impact students the most was when the message hit home. “At the very end when the speaker began to talk about our room and what we would say to the five most important people in our lives,” junior Connor Antenucci said. “I was sitting next to a friend of mine who was in my room, and I couldn’t imagine life without her.” Other aspects of the program were taken with less approval than that of Lucio’s such as the ideal that “input equals output” and that who a person is around and what he or she does will reflect what is given back in life. “I listen to a lot of rap,” freshman Triston Dadou said. “I’m not a bad person though.” One part of the presentation that caused across the board speculation was the absence of the senior class. According to Mrs. Anglim, it was not a matter of exclusion as much as it was logistics.

Rachel’s Challenge

“ Rachel’s Challenge has affected many students at RHS; they were encouraged to accept the challenge and spread kindness through the school. Photo by Aly Rosenau

“We had a time and space issue at the high schools,” Mrs. Anglim said. “We can only fit three assemblies in the morning and one training session in the afternoon. Since the seniors will have a Michael Fowlin assembly later this year, it was decided that they would not participate in Rachel’s Challenge as a class. However, some seniors may be given an opportunity to be selected to experience some of the Rachel’s Challenge program during the day, and they are invited and highly encouraged to attend the community night and become a member of the Friends of Rachel Club.” The Friends of Rachel Club, or F.O.R. is a follow-up club that was introduced to a select group of students who attended the “training session” during fifth and sixth hours on Friday January 8. “The training session helps give practical ways of integrating kindness,” Ms. O’Toole said. “I think

that many students want to reach out to others, but don’t know how to go about it. Whether a student attended the training or not will have an impact on what a student can do to spread the message. All students are invited to be a part of F.O.R. which began meeting Thursday January 14.” Despite the fact that the meeting outlining practical use of Rachel’s Challenges was limited in number, the presentation appeared to have an impact on RHS. When told to discuss the effects in class, some students agreed that the overall mood of the school seemed to have improved since Rachel’s Challenge. “There will always be people who don’t want to change, but we can only hope for the best,” Lucio said. “I’m going to do my best to accept Rachel’s Challenge and try to change myself and others for the better. A chain reaction of kindness would do the world some good.”

Rachel lived a life filled with kindness and compassion, and because of it, she’s changed the world.

Craig Scott, brother

Since program inception:

”

3,300 schools visited • 50 states, six countries •

11,000,000

• people reached with the message

Seven

• documented school shootings prevented Source: rachelschallenge.com

Inside the Nest

Talon the

January 2010

Mrs. Bell is educator of the year “Mrs. Bell Mrs. Kathy Bell was named Educator of the Year by the Michigan Association for Health, Physical Education and Dance Physical education and health teacher, Mrs. Kathy Bell has recently been awarded the Michigan Association for Health, Physical Education and Dance (MAHPERD) Educator of the Year, an honor that very few educators will ever accomplish. “I received the award of Secondary Health Teacher of the Year on November 12, at the awards banquet at Grand Traverse Resort and Spa Acme, Michigan,” Mrs. Bell said. “I was selected by the Board of

Mrs. Bell’s award was mentioned in many places in order to let the community know about her great achievement. Photo by Jordan Hubbard

Directors and Awards Committee of the MAHPERD.” Chosen for her exemplary work in the field of physical and health education, Bell’s application for the Educator of the Year award is one that is full of honors and activities, as well as heartfelt recommendations for the award on her behalf.

“During her tenure at RHS, Mrs. Bell has taught a variety of classes, everything from Individual and Group Wellness to Life Guard Training and Aerobics,” principal Ms. Wendy Zdeb wrote. “Her passion for health and physical education is evident. Every year, she revises her lesson plans and seeks out new instructional strategies,

guest speakers and activities to engage her students. Mrs. Bell builds relationships with her students and is able to get the most out of them because they genuinely respect her.” From her volunteer work to her dedication to her craft, Bell had garnered the respect of her colleagues and students long before the award was given. “Mrs. Bell is a natural confidant of students,” special education teacher, Mrs. Paula Hackard wrote. “Being available to students and parents is important to Mrs. Bell. She makes communication with parents a big part of her program, believing that parents need to be involved in the success of their children. Not only is Mrs. Bell a remarkable teacher, she also trains her student teachers in her same excellent work ethic and diverse teaching style. As difficult as it is to have a student teacher, Mrs. Bell believes in the importance of training the next generation of teachers to do the right thing for students.”

builds relationships with her students and is able to get the most out of them because they genuinely respect her. Ms. Wendy Zdeb, principal

” Reputations affect high school students Whether students make a reputation for themselves or let others decide for them, every high school student has some sort of label. These labels piled together with stereotypes compile their reputation, whether they like it or not. “A reputation is just everyone else’s opinion of you compared to others,” sophomore Maria Skoczylas said. “Most of the time they aren’t accurate and end up hurting people.” When it comes to the development of a reputation, junior Alex Dinsmoor disagrees. “A reputation is something you are known for,” Dinsmoor said. “Whether it is being really smart in school, or the kid that really likes music; it’s what sort of defines you as a person.” Webster’s Dictionary defines a “reputation” as the overall quality or character as seen or judged by people in general. This would imply that one’s actions define his or her reputation. “Everyone has some level of

Photo Illustration by Max Kleiner decision in their personal reputations,” Dinsmoor said. “They act as an individual, and their actions are what reputations are decided from.” A reputation can be anything ranging from the expectation of good grades to the expectation to rebel. “In the long run, it’s an academic

Sweater Friday Students wear sweaters every Friday, trying to start a new tradition

As junior Mike Bowery looks in the mirror to see his new, “fresh”-looking sweater, he ponders the tradition he has brought to his fellow juniors, a way to welcome the weekend with a grin, he says. He brushes off some hair and drives to school with the pride of a warrior. When walking through the halls with his friends-and their sweaters-Bowery gains a boost of morale, as do the rest of the juniors who participate in “Sweater Friday.” “(Sweater Friday) is just like holiday cheer,” junior Mike Kmiec said. “It should be for all to enjoy.” Although it is a new tradition, the emotional power these Fridays brings to the student body might continue to spread. “(Sweater Friday) is open to all students in RHS,” Bowery said. “Even the teachers and faculty are invited to the fun. Currently we only have juniors participating in Sweater Friday; however, we gain more members each week.” Being just the beginning of the tradition, no one quite knows what the future of this morale boosting opportunity might end up being. “(Sweater Friday) brings more

Juniors Michael Lordon and Nick Decker participate in Sweater Friday. Photo by Chris Saber

people together,” Kmiec said. “We hope to have it spread throughout the junior class and eventually end up documented on the United States calendar.” So the year is getting colder and sweaters are needed more, but when this weather stops, no one knows what summer will bring. “There has been talk of Polo Friday,” junior Nick Decker said. “We might even wear some sweater vests, just to continue the tradition.” In the end, sweaters may be preppy to some, but to this special group of juniors, it means more than just looking nice. “(Sweater Friday) helps decrease negative energy,” Bowery said. “We delete this energy by giving off positive attitudes and making kids smile.”

reputation that may get you more in life,” Dinsmoor said. “But a social reputation is a very important one to have too. Social reputations sort of define you to those who may not know you, and a positive social reputation is truly one of the most beneficial.” What many don’t realize is that

although a reputation seems necessary in high school, most of that is lost when graduation takes place. “As a teenager, I think you can be judged much quicker than an adult,” Mrs. Kelly Messing-Mirabito said. “As an adult, I think people perceive me for who I am because it is much

easier for me to be myself than it is for a teenager to really be themselves.” How people perceive someone may vary, but it is usually an unintentional judgment. “It’s hard to define all of the specific groups in the school, but many of them do have reputations,” Dinsmoor said. “It may be because of the people in them, or the things that they do, but it all stems from predefined reputations of the members.” Although these judgments may be unintentional, the affects of them may be harmful. “Reputations are nice to have if they are positive but can be a real harm if they are negative,” Dinsmoor said. “People shouldn’t base their opinions on people from what they hear about their reputations and should just get to know the person first hand.” The most important part about understanding reputations is knowing that not everything people say is the truth. “It is just a form of categorizing people unfairly,” Mrs. MessingMirabito said. “People should really get to know the person instead of labeling them or judging them.”

Sweater-student matchup

Photos by Amy Mackens

ANSWERS: A3 B4 C1 D2

Inside the Nest 3 Students encounter stress Talon the

January 2010

Even though junior Collin Bartlett is exhausted, he knows that he cannot sleep; he has too much work to do. But when he finally loses focus in the hours of homework he has been trying to complete, he turns on his favorite song and allows himself to relax. “Whenever I get really stressed, I usually play my guitar or listen to music,” Bartlett said. “It always calms me down.” While not all students choose to listen to music, almost everyone has his or her own way of dealing with stress since it seems to be something that all teens face, especially when it comes to academics and schoolwork. “Not only is it possible for students to get stressed out about school, but it’s also a common occurrence,” Bartlett said. “Whether you were sick and need to catch up or you’re getting loads of homework each night, it sometimes seems like school just isn’t school without stress.” Many students seem to be pushed to the limit when teachers assign a large amount of work. “I usually tend to get stressed out around exams and large tests,” Bartlett said. “When I get piles of

Some students may choose a quieter environment to work in, such as the hallway. Photo by Aly Rosenau

homework or things to study, that really stresses me out, too; I just get overwhelmed.” Others, however, seem to be more stressed out by their own expectations. “I am one of those people who tends to be a perfectionist,” sophomore Genna Peltier said. “I always try to do my best, and I beat on myself when I don’t reach my high expectations.” Whether the stress is from a student’s view of an assignment or the actual work itself, some believe that it may be entirely possible for students to become too stressed out about school. “I tend to get too stressed out about school, especially when I think about college and my future,” Peltier said. “I want to do the best I can in school, like I know that many others do, and I think

that can sometimes cause a lot of us to panic a little too much.” Some choose to avoid this problem entirely by simply relaxing and approaching a situation with ease, knowing that everything will be ultimately be OK. “Almost everyone stresses out around exam week,” senior Zack Franklin said. “People feel like their future depends on those exams, when really, it doesn’t. They just need to remember that life will go on.” While steering clear of stress might be the easiest or calmest solution, many think some anxiety is necessary and can be beneficial. “Being stressed out in the right situations can, in certain situations, help better outcomes occur,” Peltier said. “It pushes us to

Sophomore Steven Carpenter places his books and notes in front of him at his desk and tries to study. Photo by Aly Rosenau

either get a lot of work finished or make certain positive decisions.” While stress might be difficult to deal with, many, like Peltier, feel that it will ultimately pay off. “To an extent, stress can definitely be a good thing,” science teacher Mrs. Sara Rosell said. “It can help students get things done. For me personally, stress is a motivator; I work better under pressure.”

Red Quill award Due to its productive use of the EXPLORE, PLAN and ACT tests, Rochester High School has been given the Red Quill Award

individual student counseling based on their test data (all set RHS’s program apart from other Red Quill applicants),” Mr. Carroll said. “The use of building-wide reports that help pinpoint relative curricular weaknesses and communication with faculty, staff, parents and students (also help to distinguish RHS from others).” Winning this award not only distinguishes Rochester High as one of the best in regards to ACT and other assessment preparation, but also allows the program to grow to be even more successful, according to Carroll. “It signifies that your school is interested in the depth of educational performance,” he said. “Many schools look for short-term fixes to poor performance on standardized tests such as taking practice tests. Rochester focuses on curricular strength and

North Central Association chairs Ms. Erin Harris, Mrs. Aubrey Trimble and Mrs. Kelly Mozdzierz help lead RHS teachers through ACT data analysis, an important part of the school improvement process. Photo Courtesy of Rochester Community Schools

depth -the major determinant in performance on the ACT. I also see that your school is interested in capitalizing on strength -even though you’re already a very strong school -- you are interested in fine-tuning to make it even better.” In addition to winning the Red Quill Award, Rochester High was also invited to present at the 2011 State Organization Conference – allowing the staff an opportunity to teach other schools how to be and

create a successful program. “RHS (now) becomes part of a group of schools who can be used as a resource for professional development opportunities, conference sessions, and possibly professional articles,” Mr. Carroll said. “Our schools need role models (like RHS) to generate ‘best practices’ around the state so that we can move more students toward college and career readiness.”

In the end, many students, like Bartlett, have learned that the most important thing may be to find a balance between relaxation and worrying about school. “Always stay calm; don’t let things get inside your head to the point where you’re about to snap,” Bartlett said. “It’s important to stay focused on your work, but you should try to relax, too.”

Many students are faced with piles of books, binders and other materials on a regular basis. Despite the overwhelming appearance of this work, some students can work efficiently. Photo by Emily Hayward

New student e-mail system Senior Chris Tomko had an assignment due the next day, a big PowerPoint. The instructions were to e-mail it to the teacher, and he would have it open for the class the following day. As class began, the teacher was shocked to see that Tomko had failed to turn in his project. Tomko got home and saw the PowerPoint was in the sent folder. The culprit? Unreliable e-mail services. The answer? Get an e-mail through Rochester Community Schools. “The main reason we started this is that student e-mails were both being marked as spam, and being blocked,” technology facilitator Mrs. Karen Carl said. “We will never block anything from a Rochester student e-mail.”

The student e-mail accounts were activated last month in response to the multiple cases like the aforementioned situation. The e-mails are run through a branch of Microsoft and seem to be very reliable. “Every student already has one,” Mrs. Carl said. “It’s a matter of kids using them.”

To use your student e-mail:

Go to: www.outloook.com Log in using your school computer ID and password.

Fill in your name and other information.

Inside the Nest 3 Students encounter stress

Talon the

January 2010

Stress levels rise as students juggle busy schedules and homework, and begin preparing for exams

Some students may choose a quieter environment to work in, such as the hallway or a library, so that they can focus better. Photo by Aly Rosenau

overwhelmed.” Others, however, seem to be more stressed out by their own expectations. “I am one of those people who tends to be a perfectionist,” sophomore Genna Peltier said. “I always try to do my best, and I beat on myself when I don’t reach my high expectations.” Whether the stress is from a student’s view of an assignment or the actual work itself, some believe that it may be entirely possible for students to become too stressed out about school. “I tend to get too stressed out about school, especially when I think about college and my future,” Peltier said. “I want to do the best I can in school, like I know that many others do, and I think that can sometimes cause a lot of us to panic a little too much.” Some choose to avoid this problem entirely by simply relaxing and approaching a situation with ease, knowing that everything will be ultimately be okay.

Sophomore Steven Carpenter places his books and notes in front of him at his desk and tries to study. Photo by Aly Rosenau

“Almost everyone stresses out around exam week,” senior Zack Franklin said. “People feel like their future depends on those exams, when really, it doesn’t. They just need to remember that life will go on.” While steering clear of stress might be the easiest or calmest solution, many think some anxiety is necessary and can be beneficial. “Being stressed out in the right situations can, in certain situations,

Exam how-to’s:

help better outcomes occur,” Peltier said. “It pushes us to either get a lot of work finished or make certain positive decisions.” While stress might be difficult to deal with, many, like Peltier, feel that it will ultimately pay off. “To an extent, stress can definitely be a good thing,” science teacher Mrs. Sara Rosell said. “It can help students get things done. For me personally, stress is a motivator; I

work better under pressure.” In the end, many students, like Bartlett, have learned that the most important thing may be to find a balance between relaxation and worrying about school. “Always stay calm; don’t let things get inside your head to the point where you’re about to snap,” Bartlett said. “It’s important to stay focused on your work, but you should try to relax, too.”

students prepare for mid-terms

During winter break, most students are out having fun with friends. However, sophomore Vishal Modi is not. Instead, he is studying for exams. “I try to study throughout the semester to avoid cram sessions,” Modi said. “But that rarely works, so I actually just cram the weekend before, or winter break.”

Sophomore Samantha McVeigh begins to prepare for exams around the same time as Modi. “I start to study about two weeks [before exams],” McVeigh said. Although she does not begin to study extremely far in advance, McVeigh has a set study schedule. “To prepare for exams I review my notes from the year [and] quiz myself and friends,” McVeigh said. “[I also] try to relax the night before.” Sophomore Maria Skoczylas has

her own way of preparing for exams. “I make sure that my schedule is clear and take time for lots of studying,” Skoczylas said. “And then I cram the night before.” Cramming at the last minute seems to be a popular way of getting ready. However, Mr. Compton puts a lot of effort into preparing his students for exams and encouraging them to begin studying earlier than the night before. “I review the study guide at least one week in advance, and make sure

RHS wins Red Quill award Due to its productive use of the EXPLORE, PLAN and ACT tests and data analysis, Rochester High School has been given the Red Quill Award

Rochester High School has been awarded ACT’s Red Quill Award for 2009. The Red Quill award, according to RHS’ ACT consultant John Carroll, recognizes schools that make “exemplary” use of the EXPLORE, PLAN and ACT assessments in their efforts toward “student and school improvement.” Out of the 14 schools that applied, RHS was the only winner. “A well-conceived and detailed plan that illustrated an intelligent use of out assessments, the timing of those assessments, individual student counseling based on their test data (all set RHS’s program apart from other Red Quill applicants),” Mr. Carroll said. “The use of building-wide reports that help pinpoint relative curricular weaknesses and communication with faculty, staff, parents and students (also help to distinguish RHS from others).”

Winning this award not only distinguishes Rochester High as one of the best in regards to ACT and other assessment preparation, but also allows the program to grow to be even more successful, according to Carroll. “It signifies that your school is interested in the depth of educational performance,” he said. “Many schools look for shortterm fixes to poor performance on standardized tests such as taking practice tests. Rochester focuses on curricular strength and depth -- the major determinant in performance on the ACT. I also see that your school is interested in capitalizing on strength -- even though you’re already a very strong school -- you

are interested in fine-tuning to make it even better.” In addition to winning the Red Quill Award, Rochester High was also invited to present at the 2011 State Organization Conference – allowing the staff an opportunity to teach other schools how to be and create a successful program. “RHS (now) becomes part of a group of schools who can be used as a resource for professional development opportunities, conference sessions, and possibly professional articles,” Mr. Carroll said. “Our schools need role models (like RHS) to generate ‘best practices’ around the state so that we can move more students toward college and career readiness.”

it pertains to what’s on the exam,” Mr. Compton said. “I also do a jeopardy review game to not only study, but relieve stress.” Modi may not study the way Mr. Compton’s students do, but he has a set way of preparing himself for exam week. “I mostly go over tests that I’ve taken, especially the questions that I got wrong,” Modi said. “Also [I review] the study guides and important worksheets.”

Regardless of their study method, tudents generally spend more time on one subject than the others. “I mostly study for math,” Modi said. “Although this year I’ve been working really hard at A.P. History.” Despite the difficulty of making time for studying, Mr. Compton feels it is a worthwhile choice. “There’s an obvious correlation between studying and grades,” Mr. Compton said. “I’ve seen a record of success.”

one,” Mrs. Carl said. “It’s a matter of kids using them.” Beginning the use of your student e-mail is very easy.

To use your student e-mail:

Go to www. outloook.com

Fill in your name and other information.

Follow these easy steps to acquire your reliable student e-mails and avoid unneeded missing work.

Outside the Nest

Talon the

January 2010

Recession impacts 2010 Economics professor Jonathan Siberman examines the current financial climate

On December 14, 2009’s economic downfall was officially named a “recession” and the end may not be in sight. The National Bureau of Economic Research is an organization of economists who say that the economy peaked in December 2007, more than two years ago, which is when the recession began. Experts say that it could last at least through 2010, and will lead to government officials finding new economic solutions. “Recessions are a correction to imbalances in the economy that can build-up over time,” Oakland University economics professor Jonathan Silberman said. “In the recent past they have been mild and of short duration about eight months. The current recession that began in December 2007 was initially typical. The unusual feature was the financial crisis that was unanticipated.”

The recession is present everywhere, with Coach wallets filled with only spare change. Photo by Arthur Lee According to United Kingdom’s The Daily Telegraph January 4 article, UK finance directors are optimistic about recovery in “the most positive mood in more than two years,” and research shows business volumes are expected to rise over the next quarter. And 67 percent of Canadians say that when it comes to their own personal finances, their economic outlook for 2010 is bright. But that’s looking at the big picture. Students in this community are not feeling as optimistic yet. “My dad lost his job in September

2008,” sophomore Leah Brzyski said. “Since then he’s applied for numerous jobs and hasn’t even been called in for an interview. My family is always trying to save money on everything we can. I also had to stop taking ballet lessons because my family couldn’t afford to pay for it anymore.” The federal government’s solution is to hire as many as 120,000 workers which should offset jobs lost in 2009 and continue increasing until 2012. “Many of the lost jobs will never be recovered,” Silberman said. “In

their place will be new jobs in new occupations and industries.” Over the last few years, the economy has only gotten worse. From house foreclosures to job losses, it seems everyone knows someone who has been affected. “The one helpful thing that the government has done is lengthen the period of providing people with unemployment checks,” Brzyski said. “This check is necessary for my family to continue paying our bills.” Throughout the economic downfall,

NCIS inspires new career Mrs. Jessen’s moving to California when husband enlists

It was an ordinary, winter night. English teacher Mrs. Jill Jessen was watching NCIS with her husband Garrett when he began talking about a career in government agencies. From that point on, a whirlwind of events has brought many changes to Mrs. Jessen’s life, including the decision for Garrett to enlist in the Army. “We were watching NCIS, and he started talking about working in federal agencies,” Mrs. Jessen said. “Then, last summer he started talking about joining the army to get the training he needed. By November, he had decided that it would be the best path for him.” Mr. Jessen will be taking a different path in the army than a majority of the soldiers. This will help him for his future working in federal agencies. “He leaves for basic training on March 1,” Mrs. Jessen said. “He’ll be going through the physical training and learning things every other soldier needs. Then, he will go to the Defense Language Institute (DLI) in Monterrey, California. He has already started learning Arabic and the DLI will train him to be proficient in another language or two.” Knowing another language is a good career move considering the federal agency Mr. Jessen hopes to work for. “He wants to work for the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE),” Mrs. Jessen said. “He wants a career where he feels like he’s making a difference and protecting the people.” Mrs. Jessen had never i m a g i n e d all of these developments in her life plans. With so many changes, she will have to adapt to Mrs. a new lifestyle. “We will be living in California for a year,” Mrs. Jessen said. “After that, we will probably move a handful of times. I probably won’t teach in California, considering we are only staying there for a year. It gives me an opportunity to see more of the world and have more possibilities.” Even though Mrs. Jessen will be leaving her profession and RHS, she has exciting experiences to look forward to.

The Jessens visited the Florida Everglades in their travels. They plan to continue traveling the world, just in a different fashion than they are used to. Photo Courtesy of Mrs. Jessen “I am looking forward to the traveling,” Mrs. Jessen said. “I’m taking up hiking and kayaking. I’m going to learn how to be self-reliant and depend on other people at the same time with other soldiers’ families. I’ll need to learn how to get housing and health care in these new situations.” With so much to look forward to, Mrs. Jessen also realizes that she will be leaving a lot behind. “Next year on the first day of school, I be sad because Jill Jessen, will I won’t be here to teacher see everybody,” Mrs. Jessen said. “I feel like I have grown up at RHS. My students have taught me so much on a daily basis. It has forced me to view the world differently and be more compassionate. I’d like to thank the people at RHS for giving me the space to share what I think are my talents.” The English department realizes that Mrs. Jessen will not be easily replaced.

“ [Moving to California]

gives me an opportunity to see more of the world.

”

The Jessens take a break from painting houses for charity. Photo Courtesy of Mrs. Jessen “It’s going to be a tough losing Mrs. Jessen,” English teacher Ms. Julia Ridgway said. “She’s kind of like the glue that holds our department together and keeps us organized. Plus, she’s a

genius when it comes to hammering out the department’s teaching schedule. Mrs. Jessen has also worked so hard to build the AP Language program, so that is going to be a difficult hole for us to fill.”

many comparisons have been made between the current recession and the Great Depression. “The similarity with the Great Depression is that the normal recession was made much more severe by a financial crisis,” Silberman said. “Think of a car with no oil, the financial markets are the oil to the economy.” However, there are also differences between the 1930’s and today. “The differences between this recession and the Great Depression are great,” Silberman said. “Compared with the economy at the time of the Great Depression, the current economy is more diversified and global. We now have much better information to evaluate the economy, and an understanding of how the economy works and the policies necessary to correct a recession.” Siberman is hopeful that a change in the economy is on the horizon. “The recession was very severe and sharp in the first half of 2009,” Siberman said. “Since then, the economy is slowly improving. Monthly job loses are almost zero. The economy needs to generate about 250,000 jobs a month to significantly improve the job market. Hopefully we will see this type of job growth late in 2010.”

How to react after a car accident

It was just another routine morning, driving to school. It was dark out and I was still yawning. I saw break lights in front of me. Suddenly, I was the last car in a three car pileup right in front of school. Oops. Being inexperienced in the art of car-crashing, I committed several mistakes that any sensible person should not. With the winter season covering the roads in ice, everybody should be extra careful driving. But once in a while, people make mistakes. Here is some advice for people caught in a similar situation: First thing, someone should check if everybody is okay. This might seem like an obvious thing to do, but drivers are probably a bit disoriented after waking up with an air bag in their face. I just wished someone would have noticed the bruises on my forehead. Second, turn on your emergency blinkers, especially if the wreck is in the middle of the road. Especially when it’s dark out. Multiple drivers nearly hit me and my car. It also would have been a good idea to get out of the middle of the road. Next, stop worrying about appearances. Nobody is going to look good walking into school after a car crash. The air bags also impart a peculiar odor to the unfortunate victims’ clothes. I was looking for deodorant when I should have been looking for my registration. The police ended up writing me a ticket for not having my paperwork. Last, call the parents. Do not text. Leave a voice mail if they do not answer. Parents will freak out if they do not know every little detail about their children’s well-being. I forgot to call my mom and I got in more trouble for that than the actual crash. Most importantly, stay safe on the road. My excuse was that I was tired. People will always have an excuse for getting into accidents, but it is best not to get into one in the first place.

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January 2010

Outside the Nest

Social networks consume teens Junior Catie Leniczek blinks her eyes and falls into her high back computer chair. After studying vertebrates for an hour and a half, her eyes hurt, she is hungry and needs to take a break. She musters up enough energy and adds another tab in her web browser. She subconsciously pushes the “home” button, and all her stress seems to float away. “The reason I love Facebook is because it’s just a different way to stay in contact with people,” Leniczek said. “Texting and calling gets boring sometimes. This adds a whole new dimension to communication.” Facebook started on Feb. 4, 2004. Founder Mark Zuckerburg was a sophomore at Harvard University when his girlfriend broke up with him. He needed to find something that would take his mind off of her, so he began a project. What he did not know is that breakup would lead him to creating the most popular social networking website in history. “Facebook is a website that connects you with people you know through pictures, events, organizations, groups and messages,” senior Krista Fox said. “It greatly improves the chance that a mere acquaintance knows everything about you.” Teens seem to love that they can see what everyone is up to. Senior Jordan Carlson, however, saod Facebook “creates drama” and people are not using it for what Zuckerburg made for. “I’ve come to the realization that nobody in high school, including myself, is using it for what it was created for,” Carlson said. “It’s for students who’ve been separated from their friends due to college and want to keep in touch (with their college friends).” Be it college friends or neighbors, everyone is bound to have many friends on Facebook. According to

Fox, this can sometimes get a little overwhelming. “It annoys me that I’m friends with a lot of people, but I don’t know all of them really well,” Fox said. “So if I see that someone had a bad day, should I offer some comforting words? I think I generally do, but if I see someone had a sweet vacation I’m not going to comment on their pictures, or bring it up at school to them if we don’t really talk … Sometimes I feel awkward knowing what other people are up to.” Before Facebook, many teens were avid MySpace users. While MySpace has declined in popularity since Facebook swept the world, it is certainly not obselete. Tom

Anderson launched MySpace in August of 2003, which was a craze until Facebook opened to high school students in April 2008. And many students still enjoy checking their MySpace from time to time. “MySpace is a site to express yourself, find creepy guys and do some of what Facebook can,” Fox said. “It is the more personalized, less professional version of Facebook. My favorite part was being able to add music and edit the HTML programming of my own theme and having the pictures and colors I wanted as my background, something that Facebook does not let you do.”

The music portion of MySpace was a favorite among many. On a user’s page they might have a song for the reader to hear while they browse through the user’s information. One can find bands on MySpace also. It even helped Carlson’s band, Valdis. “Every single show I have played involved some sort of communication through MySpace,” Carlson said. “You can find new venues, view schedules, message people and look at pictures to see what the place looks like, just about everything. We also post pictures of our shows to show people what kind of show we put on, and one of the best things is we can post our music, our live music, for people to hear. MySpace is definitely

Many people believe that the root of the problem comes from the American culture being so intolerant about alcohol. “Human nature is to want what we cannot have,” Cleavenger said. “The fact that alcohol is so forbidden for teens in America, it makes them want it even more. Whereas teens in places like Europe, (alcohol) is common and not abused as much. Familiarity breeds contempt.” Austrian exchange student Sabrina Satzinger disagrees, however. She saide most European teenagers do abuse their drinking privilege. “I have seen so many people in Vienna get wasted, and I have heard a lot of stories where people drink until they wake up in a hospital,” Satzinger said. However, Sabrina does sympathize with lowering the drinking age in some ways. “It would be better to change the

drinking age, because Americans just want to have a choice,” Satzinger said. “In Austria everybody has the choice whether to drink or not.” Studies from potsdam.edu on alcohol problems and solutions show teenagers who drink alcohol with their parents are less likely to drink heavily, based on research among 10,000 students aged 15 and 16 in 130 schools in England. According to senior Emily Wietecha, if teens were taught to respect alcohol from their parents there would be a lower chance that they would do damage to themselves. “If teens were exposed to alcohol from a younger age, they would be less likely to abuse it,” Wietecha said. “If you learn from a young age how to respect alcohol, then you know your limits so you can not hurt yourself.” Senior Mike Pechy, however, said if the drinking age were lowered it

would cause even more problems than there already are. “People cannot handle it at 21, so they definitely cannot handle it at a younger age,” Pechy said. “If the age is lowered, it will probably be harmful because it interrupts with brain development.” Other students like sophomore Anthony Laming think not being able to drink at 18 is an infringement of his rights. Especially, because in Michigan one could drink at 18 in the ‘70s and that right was stripped away. “It is ridiculous that you can go into war and die for your country, but you cannot drink a beer,” Laming said. Cleavenger agrees. “If you are an adult at 18, and you are responsible for your actions, then you should be responsible for all of your actions,” Cleavenger said. “Drinking included.”

a great tool for bands to use so fans can check them out.” Valdis (ValdisBand) can also be found on the newest social networking site, Twitter. Chairman Jack Dorsey and C.E.O. Evan Williams founded Twitter in 2006. It became popular in 2007 when two 60 inch plasma televisions displayed “tweets” during a South by Southwest Festival, hosted in Austin. Attendees were encouraged to “tweet” live reviews in 140 characters or less. Since then, “tweets” have become more popular. “What we have to do is deliver to people the best and freshest most relevant information possible,” Williams said. “We think of Twitter as not a social network, but it’s an information network. It tells people what they care about as it is happening in the world.” On Twitter, a user will have followers. These can include anyone from Shaq (THE_REAL_SHAQ) to Jimmy Fallon (jimmyfallon) to The Detroit Free Press (freep). One interesting thing about Twitter is that one does not need to have a computer to “tweet.” A user cand send updates via text message, links to pictures and videos included, and then whoever “follows” the user can see these tweets either on the computer or via text, if they so choose. “I tend to Tweet a lot during school,” Fox said. “It’s just easy to text my Twitter what I’m up to, thinking about or let people know stuff through it.” 2010 ended a decade full of social networking advances. But the next decade has people excited to see what is to come. “It’s crazy to think that within three or four years everyone got so used to all of these sites,” Leniczek said. “I don’t know what 2010 is going to bring us, but it has to be good to compete with what we’ve already got going on now.”

The great debate over drinking age Senior Maria Antonetti*, and her best friends wait anxiously for her parents to fall asleep. When Maria gives them the all clear, they put water bottles full of alcohol into a backpack and then sneak out the window. Once they are free, the group runs a couple blocks until they are at their other friend’s party. “I love the adrenaline that comes from sneaking out a window,” Antonetti said. “However, it is wrong that the we have to do this because the drinking age is so high.” While many adults would be appalled to know that their children drink illegally, what they must first understand is the thrill that comes from it. “It seems that drinking is the forbidden fruit, which only makes teens want it more,” sophomore Danielle Cleavenger said.

Nearly 80 percent of high school seniors admit to at least trying a drink

50 percent report having consumed alcohol during the last month Teen binge drinking was linked to an increased risk for alcoholism

3,500 deaths per year are caused by drinkers under the age of 21

Just fewer than 20 percent of car accident deaths caused by drivers 21 and younger are related to intoxication Source: http://alcoholnews.org/underage_ drink.html

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January 2010

Gaining fans and popularity:

Fall from Red, Valdis and Wit’s End Three RHS bands work to gain a fan base and strive not to forget dreams of making it big one day

It is late December when senior Charles Daniels looks to his right and sees a large man, in shorts. He looks to his left and sees a smaller man, in a black button up, sleeves rolled up, unbuttoned at the top, without a shirt underneath. Behind him stands a man with massive holes in his jeans, and in his hand he holds a four foot coffin. It’s cold, and there are tons of people around. This is all normal the night of a gig. Charles plays lead guitar in the local metal band Fall From Red, and he knows all about the world that is an unknown band working towards success. He is not the only one. Within Rochester High there are two other bands, of similar styles, in similar positions. Though they all took different paths to get where they are, they are all looking to end up in the same place. Wit’s End, the most experienced

of the three bands, has worked to earn their chance in the lime light. Led by seniors, and step brothers, Tony Halushka and Chris Tomko, Wit’s End originally began in eighth grade. The current line up was assembled in 2008. “Our strong points are our unbelievable talent,” Tomko said. “Never have I heard a drummer, guitar player or bass player better than anyone in Wit’s End. Our other strong point would be our live show. We annihilate the competition when it comes to the performance.” After years of playing shows, Wit’s End feels like it has what it takes to make it to the top. “In six months, I see us playing a whole lot of shows in the summer, and hopefully on tour, as is our long term goal as a band,” Tomko said. But they are far from perfect. “What really has to improve is commitment,” he said. “That’s all. Our talent is all here, and it’s incredible, but sometimes some members put other things before the band.” Jockeying for the lead is the metal quartet Valdis. Helped by the fact that they have the most members actually attending Rochester High, Valdis has used their popularity to fill local venue The Factory multiple times. “One of the strong points of the

band is that we are all good friends,” senior guitarist Haleigh Deaver said. “It’s also good that we aren’t cocky and don’t get ahead of ourselves ... and we have a dude with a Mohawk.” Despite the Mohawk, there are still things to work on. “I think (we could improve) if we had a bass player,” Deaver said. “Chris (Owen) could focus more on singing which would be nice.” Regardless of their talent, Valdis has more down to earth goals, but they aren’t leaving out any possibilities. “Honestly, I think there will be a time when we all part and move on with our lives,” senior guitarist Jordan Carlson said. “But, hey, maybe we’ll make it in music and that won’t happen,. You never know.” Fall From Red has been playing together for less than six months, but they have relied purely on their screeching guitar and drums to quickly become a local power house. Front man Daniels said they have more talent at their individual instruments than anyone around. “Anthony Guastella is honestly the best drummer in town,” Daniels said. “Josh Guastella refines all of the guitar parts that I show him, and Brad Barr has added an insane amount of creativity to everything that we have. Chris Gordon’s singing

leaves me in awe every time.” The only thing holding Fall From Red back at this point is the time it takes to create a real reputation. “In order to take ourselves to the next level, w e need to fulfill o u r original goals of releasing our first CD, making new T-shirts and selling concert tickets,” Daniels said. “Once all this starts to flow in a regular cycle, this is hopefully when we will begin to tour.” Maybe in 20 years they will all have disbanded and gotten real jobs. But maybe, just maybe, they will all make it, and Rochester will become the metal band mecca in the music world. But until then they can all agree on one thing. “Our ultimate goal is to gain more fans than we started with at the last show,” Daniels said. “And spread our music to a much wider fan base.”

Senior Chris Tomko, is known for his stage presence . Photo by Amy Mackens

Vampire Weekend’s ‘Contra’ album big hit

Vampire Weekend performs live on stage during the Main Square Festival in Arras, France on July 5, 2008. Photo courtesy of Sylvain Lefevre/Asa-Pictures/ABACAPRESS.COM

Acapella group “Sounds of Pitches” Q&A with junior Nicole Armold was run by the members from last year.

When did the Sounds of Pitches start? Last year, 2009 (winter)

When was the first show? Variety show, 2009 Who runs Sounds of Pitches? Ana Rodriguez and Christie Nelson started the group last year. This year the group is run by all the members who were in the group last year.

Were any prior qualifications necessary to audition? No qualifications necessary, just singing. How often do you practice? (Laughs) Um, it varies. When will the first show of the year be? Either variety show or cabaret. What will you guys be singing? We haven’t decided yet.

Can you explain what it is exactly that the How were the current Sounds of Pitches group members does? selected? We sing acapella music, There was an audition which is music that process where students uses vocals in place of had to prepare a song. It instruments.

The typical mold of pop musicians was shattered and re-cast by the electropop-reggae-ska band Vampire Weekend in 2008, and with their new album, Contra, VW has done it again, with a slight twist in their original sound, and a new, profound maturity in their lyrics. In their debut self-titled album, VW created images of lazy days on a college campus crushing on girls with money and summers in Cape Cod, employing sharp drum beats and a mixture of synthesizer and guitar interludes. This mix of instruments and lyrics created a unique tone, specific to the band. In Contra, it

seems the bar was raised: louder and bigger drums and quick-paced guitar solos make their sophomore album more upbeat and light-hearted. Not only is the band’s previously established sound amped-up in this new album, but so is the subject matter of their songs, using the playful and colorful beats and rhythms to mask deep and sentimental lyrics about self evaluation and slowly emerging from the college-days haze. Using these new musical tools, the band has created songs more unprecedented than ever before. In the opening song, “Horchata” front man Ezra Koenig’s vocals provide a lilting lullaby in partnership with a lively Kalimba (an African percussion instrument) accompinament. As the

album progresses, the tempo of the songs steadily mount, coming to a peak in the bright and energetic “Cousins,” which applies sharp staccato vocals and rapid drum beats. Slowly winding to a close, the last song “I think UR a Contra” uses an orchestrated kind of silence: subtle bongos and slight use of a string quartet, paired with the high pitched croon of Koenig, shaping the end of the album into a delicate reverie. With this new arsenal of lyrical maturity and musical genius, VW proves to the world that they are more than clever, quirky Ivy-Leaguers, they prove that they have enough soul and character to last through any amount of backlash jilted fans may dish out.

One act prepares to perform Strong friendships are made as the one acts prepare to showcase improved skills at lovefest this February

Senior Natalie Phillips sits on the stage and watches on as the cast of “7 Stories” rehearses a scene, occasionally “pausing” the actors to give them helpful bits of advice about their characters. Again she sits back and watches, looking forward to the next couple week’s hard work and the pay-off at the end. “Being one of the student directors, I have a lot more responsibility,” Phillips said. “But knowing that we helped to create such a fantastic show makes the process that much more gratifying.” This process involves weeks of hard work, finally resulting in a “love-fest” of high school theatre talents. “Well, obviously, there’s the first couple weeks where we plan what we’re going to be doing on stage and put the show together,” freshman Allie Gibbs said. “But after that, we travel to Garber High School in Bay City and perform in front of 12 to 14 other schools and watch them perform their shows, too. Everyone gets along with each other, which explains why we call it ‘love-fest’ in the first place.” Between the hard work and the

Juniors Connor Antenucci and Gabe Gibbs practice their lines for the one act play. Photo by Max Kleiner

hours spent together, the students in this program end up creating bonds with each other that can last for years. “When everything ends, I miss hanging out with all the people that I spent time with,” junior Nick Dauphin said. “After the show ends, sometimes I won’t ever see some of the people again, but getting to know them provides me all the more reason to participate every year.” RHS has been putting together one-acts for years, and this year’s

group is hoping to be more entertaining. “Last year’s one-act was, honestly, a little boring,” sophomore Garret Hubbard said. “This year’s is so much funnier and the characters are more personable than the ones last year.” Despite all the variables that go into creating a show, one underlying theme will always be present. “A cast has got to act as one, like a family,” Phillips said. “Luckily for us, we do.”

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January 2010

Entertainment Entertainment

As an epic battle approaches, Jake (Sam Worthington, left), Grace (Sigourney Weaver), Trudy (Michelle Rodriguez) and Norm (Joel David Moore) plan their next move in “Avatar.” (Mark Fellman/Courtesy Twentieth Century Fox/MCT)

Junior Nick Decker had a Friday night all planned completely around one thing: seeing “Avatar” in 3-D IMAX. The show started at eight, so he figured he needed to arrive a little early, even though the movie had been in theaters for three weeks. When he arrived, he was shocked to find the movie was already sold out. Much of the anticipation for “Avatar” comes from writer and director, James Cameron’s comeback after a twelve year hiatus. Famous for the box office juggernaut, “Titanic,” Cameron had already written the script for “Avatar,” but had to wait twelve years for the technology to catch up with his vision. The estimated cost for creating and marketing the film was around 300 million dollars and it has already surpassed that, earning as of press time, over 500 million dollars worldwide. The movie takes place on the planet Pandora with a tribe called the Na’vi. Jake Sully (Sam Worthington) is a handicapped ex-marine that takes a job on a different planet. With the help of technology, Sully takes control of his avatar and joins the Na’vi tribe. While he tries to learn the ways of the tribe, the humans on the planet have other ideas. There is a stark contrast between the utopian society of Pandora and that of Earth, and the underlying message is clear: nature is not a thing to be taken advantage of and ignored, it something to be respected. The vivid imagery only emphasizes this greenfriendly message and the special

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By presenting a story that precedes that of the film, the idea is that James Cameron’s “Avatar: The Game” can create a true expanded universe. Does it work? Sort of. (Twentieth CentMCT)

lot away from the plot, and audience interest. In addition, others complain that “Avatar” gives hints of racism towards races like the Native Americans. One critic noted that “the Indian woman leads the white man into the wilderness and when destruction comes, the white man becomes her savior,” implying that this film advocates the influence of white people and how they think it is evitable to dominate the natives, be it benevolently or violently. Yes, it may be a little offensive to depict the natives as Native Americans, but if anything, the idea that the white man realizes that his people’s ways are evil is something far from offensive. Overall, “Avatar” is a whole new experience for movie-goers. The 3-D is unlike anything that has ever been created, and the 2-D is still very enjoyable. The special effects are unbelievable and make up for what some may call a predictable plot. Critics can rage all they want saying that this film is an unoriginal, racist piece of propaganda, but to the general public, “Avatar” is a mustsee.

Jake Sully (Sam Worthington, left) and Neytiri (Zoe Saldana) in a scene from movie, “Avatar.” (Courtesy Twentieth Century Fox/MCT) effects are to thank for that. of the film. The actors wore helmet- of breathtaking. Despite everything that is great The special effects are in one mounted cameras and sensors that word: stunning. The action scenes transferred their facial expressions about the movie, a couple of negatives and the detail of the planet and of its and nuances onto their digital may stand out to some. The movie creatures are incredible. The colors counterparts, taking the concept of is 162 minutes in length and seems to go on forever. The plot is also are extremely vivid and further CGI to a whole new level. add to the viewing experience. The In an industry where most somewhat predictable, and plot and characters are very well movies rely on a solid idea and story has very few twists. audience developed as well as the culture of development to attract and maintain The the Na’vi people. Unlike previous audiences, “Avatar” brings in a doesn’t have the I haven’t watched it, CGI movies such as “The Polar completely new game — blending feeling of “what but I really want to next,” Express,” “Avatar’s” characters are 3D computer images with reality happens all created with the perfect lighting until the viewer is too immersed in and that takes a It’s absolutely and emotion. No longer exists the the world of Pandora to care what is I haven’t watched it, “dead-eye” effect, where characters’ real and what is CGI. Everything on amazing; the special eyes reflect no light and show no Pandora is a site to behold. From the and I don’t want to effects were language. Every little movement floating, waterfall-gushing halleluiah revolutionary and change in body language is mountains to the lush, bioluminescent noticeable due to the human motion forest that lights up with every step data collected during the shooting one takes, “Avatar” is nothing short It was poorly made

20%

11%

55%

and cliche

Plot overview

The movie has been in the w 1994 and surr ounds main ch orks since The film is a co aracter Jake Su a former marin nstant lly, versus e who has just manufacturing battle of science been transpor in the newest and nature ve ted corporat group of troops rsus ion. With the he to the new plan of Pandora. D lp of science an ue to the unfo et technolo d gy, Sully takes rtunate and ba timed death of control of his av dly- which his twin brothe is at a human-Na’vi ar r, he is forced take over for hi hybrid custom to fit each m in the lab. made to individual. Avatar is set on Meanwhile, in Pandora—a w the Earth-like planet of a desperate cr orld that light th aving e ra re and valuab s up at night, physically and le substance th to obtain Although he’s an both settle spiritually. Ney outsider, the e Na’vi have d ov er, the mining tiri describes the forest as a Omaticaya de corporation se network of en ci co de nv that if he can in ts ce ou th ergy, in which t to energy is only learn all Neyti “all needed e Na’vi to leave—and use borrowed and ri te ac hes him, he m fo . rc e if one day you ha to give it back become a perm ay ve .” anent membe During this tim r. In do e, in he meets Ney g so, Jake falls princess of Om tiri, the in love with bo aticaya—a lo the Omaticaya th cal Na’vi tribe. and Neytiri an d must fight to help sa ve his new fam ily. Staff Writer

5% It was fairly good overall

Katie Ziraldo

The main tribe members consist of Tsu’tey, Eytukan and Mo’at. Eytukan and Mo’at are Neytiri’s parents and therefore the leaders of the Omaticaya tribe. Mo’at leads the tribe physically while Eytukan leads them spiritually. Tsu’tey is the leader of the hunters and after Neytiri’s heart in the film. Although the characters do not specifically play big roles, as a whole the tribe forms the main protagonist group in the movie. In the end, they must pull together in order to protect and preserve the life they have worked so hard to create.

Neytiri

As the leader of the scientific movement of Pandora, Dr. Grace Augustine (Sigourney Weaver) has a deep connection to the Na’vi people. The schools she set up for them to learn English gave her an easy path to the tribe and their trust. Dr. Augustine is also the leader of the protagonist group in the movie. She understands the environmental network that the Na’vi people have set up in the forest and believes that it needs to be preserved and possibly even encouraged so we may advance just as the Omaticaya tribe have done so.

Jake Sully

Colonel Quaritch (Stephen Lang) is the main antagonist in the movie. He leads the military base that has been hired by the corporation to negotiate the terms of the Na’vi’s relocation. Although it is to be believed that they are only there to protect, in reality the Colonel has a prejudice opinion of the locals. He uses Jake to find out what can hurt the Omaticaya the most and then goes for it. Even though it may seem like the scientists and the Colonel’s military are on the same side, the colonel tries to use force to stop the scientists’ mission.

Jake Sully (Sam Worthington) is a Neytiri (Zoe Saldana) is the princess of handicapped ex-marine who takes a job on the Omaticaya tribe. Her connection with life Pandora. With the help of technology, Sully as well as the human-spirit is highlighted takes control of his avatar and joins the Na’vi throughout the movie, when she describes tribe. Although he starts the movie on the side the forest as a network of energy in which “all of the corporation, throughout the film he energy is only borrowed and one day you have begins to understand the connection between to give it back.” When Neytiri meets Jake, she himself and the environment around him. With automatically knows that he is destined to be the help of Neytiri, Sully joins the Omaticaya great, for he has a kind soul. It is for this reason tribe and becomes the first avatar to make a full that she lets him live and even ends up falling transition from human to Na’vi. for him. Background Photo: Sam Worthington, left, as Jake Sully and Zoe Saldana as Neytiri star in action-adventure film, “Avatar.” (Courtesy Twentieth Century Fox/MCT)

The tribe

Grace

The colonel

Entertainment

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January 2010

Watch your Sunbears: An up and coming comedy duo Mehdi Farah andAustin Thommason are a part of a new comedy group. They go by the name The Sunbears. The two started this group with a camera they bought together and started filming random clips and editing them. Recently picked up by the Detroit arts group “The Sunday Idiom,” they are well on their way to the top. “When I was, like, three I started watching Charlie Chaplin,” Farah said. “I thought he was the most ridiculous person, and I kind of idolized that, and I got dropped on my head a lot.” The Sunbears are an up and coming comedy group that tries to appeal to their generation of comedy. “There will always be a place in my heart for the Mike and Allan skits, “ Farah said. “So far it is the most successful of our skits.” This comedy group is a part of a bigger group of arts and comedy acts online known as The Sunday Idiom. “My cousin actually was part of the Sunday Idiom, and her boyfriend ran it as a companion to his radio show,” Farah said. “They saw some of my footage and invited me to be a part of their website, and I brought Austin with me.” Farah and Thomasson are constantly looking for ways to expand their skits and comedy skills. “Generally we have little to no idea what we are about to do before the camera turns on,” Thommason said.

Watch one of Farah and Thommason”s video clips at sunbears.thesundayidiom.com. Photos courtesy of Lauren Thommason

“Pre-planned jokes really just never enter the picture.” Often, the comedy from The Sunbears extends out of their filming time and into their daily life. “Any teacher I have had will tell you that I do a lot of random jokes in class,” Farah said. “I’m trying to cut down because it often goes unappreciated.” Because these two have been getting their name out to the school, they have are getting more hits on their website. “The only reason I started watching

The Sunbears is because I heard Mehdi talking about the sunbears website,” senior Alex Franczyk said. “I went home and checked it out and sent it to a bunch of my friends.” The duo’s friends often make their way into the skits. “If we think it will work we will bring our friends into our skits.” Thommason said. “We had Eric Ibanes come in and do the Mike and Allan skits, and it worked out great.” Farah and Thomasson are constantly

Mehdi Farah Hometown: Casablanca, Morocco Favorite Movies: “Fight Club”, “Se7en”, “Star Wars”. Influences: Biggie, Al Roker

Austin Thomasson Hometown: Rochester, Michigan Favorite Movies: “Spice World”, “New Moon” Influences: Animal Collective

thinking of ideas for new skits and ways to get more publicity. “The website is getting redone in Flash right now, unfortunately it will be down until that point,” Farah said. “We are also getting studio backing, which will be huge for us.” The website has seen a steady increase in visitors since they announced its opening. “I heard about the website on Facebook through a couple of friends inviting me to The Sunbears Group,”

senior Nick Ritz said. “I’m glad that I found my way to the site because it is a really good thing to do while bored.” Farah and Thomasson are working together to make people laugh all over the world. “I’m not going to stop trying to make people laugh until we are on top,” Farah said. “Austin and I will work hard until we achieve that.”

Staff members bond outside of school

Sixty staff members participated in the Second Annual Staff Toy Exchange on Monday, December 14. All of these toys were donated to Toys for Tots just in time for the holidays. Photo by Mrs. Karen Garr

Holiday Party

Who: 35 staff, significant others and children What: A fiesta dinner and game night When: Friday, Dec. 4, 2009 Where: Gameworks Why: This year staff were not only fed and watered at their annual Holiday Party, they also had the chance to be racing drivers, basketball players, dancers and white water rafters and find their inner child at Great Lakes Crossing. All attendees were given two hours of free gaming and a one-hour game card to be used at a later date. “My husband and I had a blast because usually my kids hog the Wii at home, and I do not have a chance to play,” said Mrs. Gambaro. Highlight of the Event: To be able to see staff enjoying themselves out of school in a relaxed environment.

Second Annual Staff Toy Exchange

Who: 60 staff members What: Each staff member draws a name and buys a toy they think their colleague would enjoy based on their subjects and interests. A limit of $20 is suggested, however many staff members spend much more. After being opened, the toys are donated to Toys for Tots. When: Monday, Dec. 14 Where: Media Center Why: Everyone enjoys getting gifts, especially toys. But, more importantly, staff members say they love putting thought into the gifts and helping out others who are less fortunate. Highlight of the Event: Hanging out with colleagues and having the opportunity to act like a kid is as well as seeing the gifts the youngsters will receive on Christmas Day.

Cookie Exchange

Who: 7 staff members were involved What: Each person had to make a dozen cookies for each participant. When: Wednesday Dec. 16, 2009 at 2:45 p.m. Where: Mrs. Russell’s room Why: “Every year I slave away in my kitchen making an assortment of cookies to give out to my neighbors and as hostess gifts when we go to parties,” business teacher Mrs. Karen Malsbury said. “By having an exchange at school, it has cut down the amount of time spent in the kitchen, and it also gives me an excuse to hang out with my colleagues and exchange ideas and recipes. This is the second year we have done it, and I hope it will continue for years to come.” Highlight of the Event: Trying different cookies from Mrs. Ellis’ Macaroons, to the award winning shortbread that Mrs. Kuslits made.

Boot Camp

Who: 13 Staff Members have signed up for one or two sessions a week What: Boot Camp Exercise with a Personal Trainer, Brandon Prellburg When: Monday and Wednesday’s until Winter Break Where: All over RHS Why: 2010 is a new year and a new start. To help make themselves leaner, fitter and healthier, 13 staff members at RHS have signed up to be trained by RHS’ own Jillian (aka Brandon), Biggest Loser Style! Staff members will be put through a series of exercises and educated on good eating plans and tips to stay healthy. “If you see us in the hall working out – cheer us on – even staff need a little encouragement some times,” Mrs. Malsbury said. Highlight of the Event: Hanging out as a group and being able to reach realistic goals with hard work, determination and support.

Baby Shower for Mrs. Greve and Mrs. Trimble

Who: 30 staff members (28 women and 2 men: Mr. Deluca, Mr. Langan) For: School psychologist Lauren Greve and English/History Teacher Aubrey Trimble What: Baby shower When: Jan. 6 Where: Teacher’s lounge Why: To help prepare the new moms -to-be for their little bundles of joy. The staff also wanted to show the ladies how excited they are for them and what wonderful moms they will be. Highlight of the Event: Reading the letters students wrote to the new moms-to-be. They asked some very interesting questions and had some nice comments. Other: Mrs. Trimble is having a boy and Mrs. Greve is having a girl. Both are expecting their first child in March.

MTV’s ‘Jersey Shore’ takes Guido too far On Aug. 1, 1981 Music Television (MTV) began as the first network in history dedicated entirely to music. Since then, MTV has long since abandoned its roots of almost 24/7 music videos or even musicrelated shows in the name of reality television. As time went on, the shows became more pointless, and music TV appeared to have hit rock bottom. It seems, however, that the network has outdone itself in its newest addition to the MTV family of crap: “Jersey Shore.”

The series follows eight of the “hottest, tannest, craziest Guidos.” The four girls and four guys are thrown together in a house, and in return, they “work” for their landlord at a boardwalk store. The rest of the show features the group getting trashed at clubs and making idiots of themselves by making plenty of trashy, sexist and moronic comments. And that’s pretty much it. Everything about “Jersey Shore” just oozes sleazy. The women have given themselves names like “Snookie” and “JWoww,” and each one portrays a sort of psychotic feminism in which apparently, a lack of ethics

is equivalent to feminism. The guys, on the other hand, are essentially all muscles and testosterone with tans that rival oompa loompas, wearing more product than any of the girls. Their purpose in the show is to strut around and put on the stereotypical macho act of fighting, flirting, fistpumping and wishing there were a stripper pole in the kitchen. Overall, “Jersey Shore” is the epitome of brain-dead d-baggery and as Jesus is to the Antichrist, everything wholesome is to the Guidos and Guidettes of “Jersey.” Let’s hope that MTV can’t manage to stoop any lower.

Seniors Mike Lane, Cody Wilson and James Giardina pose in their “Jersey” get-up after a day of fist pumping at school. Photo by Amy Mackens

Talon the

January 2010

Lifestyles

Battling fake attitudes As she listens to people complain about how much a girl in her history class irritates them, senior Alexis Chapman cannot help but be annoyed by how fake these students seem to be. Chapman knows that while they may appear to dislike thet girl at the moment, they will most likely turn around and try to hang out with her before she knows it. “My biggest pet peeve is when someone will come and start talking to me about someone, then two minutes later when that person shows up, they act like they’re best friends,” Chapman said. “In the end, being fake always ends up hurting someone.” Many teenagers, like Chapman, have been hurt by others who pretend to be someone or something else. “My overall attitude towards being ‘fake’ is definitely negative,” sophomore Brittany Byrnes said. “How can you be friends with someone that is not their real self? You’re not friends with a person that exists; you’re really just friends with the idea of a good person.” While putting on an artificial front may seem wrong, some believe that there may actually be benefits to this action. “False faces can sometimes be

a good thing,” sophomore Ryan Freeland said. “For example, if a teen had a false face on and they entered into a group that they usually wouldn’t be involved with, they could be given the chance to discover something new that they wouldn’t normally see.” Being fake may help teens in other ways as well. “I think that people can use false faces to get out of certain tasks, not see certain scenes, or shield themselves from something that might be humiliating,” Freeland said. Others, however, say these people are being selfish and are just trying to win as many friends as possible. “People are fake because they want to be popular,” Chapman said. “Everyone wants to have friends and not be hated; they just want to fit in.” Whether a false identity is taken on for oneself or for others, many feel that it is a completely unnecessary measure. “It causes so much unneeded drama, and it makes people feel like crap sometimes,” Chapman said. “Teens are already under enough stress without having to worry about if their friends actually like them or not.” Although figuring out whether or not a person is being fake may be important to avoid feeling hurt, it

might be a difficult task. “Sometimes, it’s tricky to tell if someone has a false face,” Freeland said. “Many people use it so much that it’s hard to know if they’re actually using it, or if they are truly being themself.” If people are able to detect that someone they know is being dishonest about his or her identity, it may be best to simply be truthful and supportive. “It’s always best to approach someone at a time where there isn’t any conflict,” counselor Ms. Jennifer O’Toole said. “You want to choose a calm, open and private time to talk and decide if the friendship is worth it. If it is, it can really grow from that honesty; your friend might just really need something that they don’t feel that they are getting.” Many say this honesty should not only be applied to a friendship, but to the person’s own identity as well. “Be true to yourself,” Byrnes said. “Stand up for what you believe in and know who your true friends are. There are people out there that will love you for who you are; you just have to find them.” While this journey may not be easy, many believe that it is all worth it in the end. “As I’ve gone through high school, I’ve found that being yourself is what really matters,”

While being ‘fake’ might not mean literally cutting out different pictures and putting them all together, many teens claim to know people who act as if they are someone else and hide their own identity. Graphic by Amy Mackens

Chapman said. “I may not be the most popular girl in the school or have the most friends, but I can honestly say that doesn’t matter; I have the best friends in the world. I can count on them, and I know

Dangers of Depression Warning signs of suicide: Deeply saddened, sophomore Sarah Rich struggles to process her mom’s words. She thinks of the perfect moments that she and her friend Robert had shared. She thinks of the countless times where the two had laughed themselves to tears. She thinks of the crazy adventures that the young children had gone on together. But Rich realizes that she and her friend will not be able to create any more memories; she has just learned that Robert, at the age of 15, took his own life. “The first thing I felt was complete and utter shock,” Rich said. “Then I just felt sad. Even though I hadn’t talked to him in a long time, that didn’t make things any easier.” Although Robert may not have shown signs of the condition, he was most likely suffering from depression, as many teenagers do. “Now more than ever, teenagers are under a lot of stress, both at school and at home,” therapist Mrs. Linda Carver, who works at the Perspectives of Troy counseling center, said. “I can definitely say that I am seeing more and more high school kids come in with symptoms of depression.” For many of the afflicted people, these general symptoms are the same. “Those who are affected tend to feel helpless, hopeless, sad or alone,” counselor Mr. Christopher Green said. “They might also fear that those things aren’t ever going to better.” Not only can the condition change the way people feel, but it can affect their lives in many other areas as well. “Depression can cause people to become agitated or have a short temper,” Mr. Green said. “If someone is aggrivated, they might take it out on others. Their depression might also affect their friends since they might not be participating in the relationship, or they may be hard to be around since they seem so down all of the time.” When teens feel unusually upset about something, they may become overly stressed, which is ultimately believed to be one of the utmost causes of depression. “I really think people become depressed when things get too overwhelming,” Mrs. Isaacs said. “People don’t really know what to do with those emotions, so they aren’t

“Anyone who attempts or goes through suicide usually does so as a last resort,” Mr. Green said. “There are almost always signs that they want or need help.” These signs may include: • Talking about killing or harming one’s self • Expressing strong feelings of hopelessness or being trapped • An unusual preoccupation with death or dying • Acting recklessly, as if they have a death wish (e.g. speeding through red lights) • Calling or visiting people to say good-bye • Getting affairs in order (giving away prized possessions, tying up loose ends) • Saying things like, “Everyone would be better off without me” or “I want out.” • A sudden switch from being extremely depressed to acting calm and happy.

What to do if you think that a friend might be depressed: There are a couple of things that someone can do for a friend who might be in trouble. Mr. Green suggested: • Acknowledge the changes to that person. A friend should always let another friend know that they notice that something is wrong. • Let them know that you’re there to talk, and that you’re ready to listen. • You can also tell a counselor here at RHS, or the other person’s parents. If you ever feel that a friend is seriously in harm’s way, you need to get them help. Dedicated to Paul Hayward (Sept. 2, 1964 – Sept. 25, 2006) and Robert Russell (19942009).

sure how to cope.” Many say the best resource available to teens who feel overwhelmed is a trusted adult. “If you think you might be depressed, it’s imperative to reach out,” Mr. Green said. “It is best to try to talk to a parent or to a counselor. Friends are good, too, but they might not know what to do other than listen, whereas people like counselors as trained to handle these kinds of situations.” While reaching out to a friend may not always be the best option, it may still happen. In this case, it is important for teens to understand what to do and how to delicately handle their friend’s emotions. “The individual may just want you to listen non-judgmentally and provide some understanding, encouragement, or hope,” Mrs. Christina Isaacs, a psychologist at Blue Water Counseling, said. “It is very important not to blame, criticize, humiliate, abandon or avoid the person. They need your support and friendship more than ever.” However, there may be a point

when it is best for friends to get someone else to help rather than trying to handle it themselves. “If someone is talking about killing themselves or even making vague statements like ‘I wish I was dead,’ ‘I wish I was never born,’‘I wish I could disappear,’ or ‘It’s hopeless; I give up,’ get help immediately,” Mrs. Isaacs said. “Never assume that a person doesn’t mean it when they say this. You can’t know for certain, and it would be a tragedy if that person actually killed him or herself.” Through all of the stresses and decisions that someone who is depressed might have to make, the only essential thing might be that the person somehow receives help before it is too late. “Kids need to know that once you end your life, it’s over, and you don’t get a second chance,” Rich said. “But in life, there is always the hope that things will get better; people just have to find the strength to believe in it.”

Symptoms: “From a clinical standpoint, any kind of change in behavior or change in the way that someone thinks about the world might be viewed as depression,” Mr. Green said. “If someone was really optimistic and upbeat but suddenly changed, it might be suspected that they are depressed.” Other symptoms are: • Loss of concentration • Feeling hopeless or helpless • Loss of control over negative thoughts • Loss of appetite • Irritability or anger • Changes in sleep pattern, such as sleeping too little or too much • Loss of energy • Unexplained aches and pains

Sources: Mr. Christopher Green and helpguide.org/mental/depression_ signs_types_diagnosis_treatment.htm

that they will always have my back. I’ve learned that I shouldn’t try to be someone that I’m not because I want people to like me; I am me, and if people don’t like that, that’s fine with me.”

Losing a friend Drowning in depression, Paul tightened his grip. Sweat and tears trickled down his face. Paul felt suffocated. He didn’t understand how he could feel so alone. He was tired of dragging along such a heavy burden. Paul placed the gun he was clenching up to his forehead and jammed his eyes shut. “I’m sorry,” he whimpered. “I’m so, so sorry.” Before Paul could do anything else, his finger pulled the trigger. On Sept. 25, 2006, Paul, at the mere age of 42, committed suicide. He had a family that loved him and a world of possibilities. But that day, all that he had was lost. That day, the world lost someone loving. The world lost someone with an outrageous sense of humor. That day, I lost my Uncle Paul. I try my hardest to remember all of the joy that we shared together. But now, the only thing I can think about is the fear he felt. The devastation left upon my family is unbelievable. The pain I saw at his funeral was unbearable. It shouldn’t take a tragic death to make people realize how much they love each other. But still, it does. And I wish more than anything that it wasn’t that way. If all it would have taken was a hug, an extra phone call just because, or an “I love you,” I would have been there in a split second. Whatever was necessary, I would have done it; I can’t understand why he didn’t come to me for help. Did he feel alone? I wanted to be his best friend. Did he feel unloved? I loved him more than he could ever know. Did he feel afraid? I would have held him if he wanted to cry. Why did he have to go? He never even said goodbye. That day has left me with endless unanswered questions. Some days, reality crashes down upon me like a tsunami, wrecking everything in its path. Some days, I want to see my uncle one more time. Some days, I’m too afraid. Every day, I miss him.

10 Opinion Staff Editorial:

Talon the

January 2010

Rachel’s Challenge leaves a positive impact Rachel’s Challenge will make kids sit with different people at lunch, stick up for those being bullied, lend a helping hand to those in need and change RHS for the Rachel’s Challenge may just be the program to turn RHS around. From Challenge Day to Michael Fowlin, it is no secret that many students tend to forget what they have just heard and continue living their lives the way they had previous to the presentations. However, this emotionally moving and heart-wrenching program that came to our school January 8, might prove to be different. Rachel’s Challenge is a program that spreads Rachel’s message and goals through assemblies presented by family members and friends. And already the effects of the assembly can be seen throughout the school. On Facebook alone, it was hard not to notice the “I accept Rachel’s Challenge” statuses, or the large numbers of friends who joined groups promoting the challenge in memory of Rachel. In addition, the banner that hangs in the mall is filled with signatures and there

seems to be constant buzz surrounding the movement. What will make or break this message, however, is the Friends of Rachel (F.O.R.) club that is being started as a result of the presentation and training. If the club is able to take the messages presented in the assembly and find a way to integrate them into the school day, there will be big results. There’s no reason why the passion felt immediately after a presentation that moving can’t continue on. Although some are cynical about the challenge, citing past presentations as examples to the lack of change that occurs afterwards, it is undeniable that this particular presentation has created an impact on students that has lasted longer than all other assemblies.Because all freshmen, sophomores and juniors –as well as some seniors – experienced the assembly within mere hours of one another, the effect spread rapidly. Unlike other presentations that only targeted one grade level, Rachel’s Challenge brought something for everyone, and if anything, it is going to be interesting to see how far Rachel Scott’s message will continue through the hallways. This program is definitely a step in the right direction, and there’s little doubt that this message won’t continue to live on in the lives of the many who participated in it.

While millions of little kids slide down hills of ice into giant piles of slush on a flimsy piece of plastic, I sit in front of the fire in my U of M Snuggie with a huge mug of hot chocolate. At one point in my life, I would have been out there, too. Racing my friends down the icy slopes, making snow angels and having snowball fights until my

Censorship:

Editor in Chief Jordan Hubbard Copy Editor Emily Hayward

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News Editor Madison Reitzel

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I am going to try to have a more positive attitude and know that one person can make a difference.

After going to Rachel’s Challenge, I’ll try and not to judge people so quickly.

”

Simonne Lakamper, sophomore

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I think the assembly made me a less selfish person. I want to take time out to help out those in need. Chris Saber,

junior

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Katie Ziraldo, sophomore

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solution. Al Gore introduced an idea that baffled the minds of millions: global warming. Yes, my solution for this inconvenient weather pattern we call snow is to increase the giant hole in our ozone layer to create a permanent summertime. Now, this idea may seem a little silly or outrageous, but don’t shut it down so quickly. How about we look at this in steps? According to enviromentalgraffiti.com, the “five deadliest effects of global warming” are: 5. Spread of diseases 4.Warmer waters and more hurricanes 3.Increased probability and intensity of droughts and heat waves

Features Editor Laura Herbert Opinion Editor Arthur Lee Sports Editors Aaron Kuhn Steven McConnell Graphics Editor Max Kleiner Photo Story Editor Amy Mackens Business Manager Dan Offenbacher

I accepted Rachel’s Challenge. That means I will push myself to be nicer to everybody.

Madison Reitzel, junior

”

Global warming has benefits face was as cold as Frosty himself. Not anymore. Among many of my childhood memories, which consist mostly of Spongebob Squarepants, The Powerpuff Girls and other obsessions of that nature, I recall those cherished days in elementary school that we take for granted now: snow days. You woke up to a pleasant morning, knowing that there was no school. You left your house sometime after breakfast, came back inside at lunch, and slopped back into the house around dinner time to peel off your snow pants. As high school came, these exciting times got left behind. And I’m sure many of you are with me on this one. But this is not just about how much the snow sucks, for I have the

The Talon

2. Economic consequences 1. Polar ice caps melting But if we look as these “problems” on a happier note, you will notice these “problems” turn into possibilities: 5. A less populated Earth 4. Warmer vacation spots and more rain to make the Earth greener and more beautiful 3. One big giant sandbox which will make more room for big sandcastles 2. The sunscreen and hand-held fan business can boom 1. Who needs polar bears? So as you can see, maybe Al Gore and I actually know what we are talking about. Global warming will help our Earth so much that we will look back on these days of “Winter Wonderland” and laugh.

Despite unalienable constitutional rights, students and adults are censored around the world every day

Circulation Manager Caitlyn Kuskowski Staff Writers Sara Corneliussen James Giardina Drew Hoffman Simonne Lakamper Kristen Pop Aly Rosenau Chris Saber Melanie Sweet Kate Ziraldo Andy Zhou Adviser Ms. Julia Ridgway

Mission Statement The Talon presents an open forum for student expression to be used by the Rochester High School community to promote and express thought and action. The stories, opinions, and bylined content in The Talon do not necessarily represent and should not be interpreted as the views of the Rochester Community School Board of Education or any of its staff, faculty, or employees. Unless otherwise noted, all stories and opinions expressed here are the views of The Talon staff which is comprised of students in the Journalism II class of Rochester High School. The Talon believes it is its duty and right to inform, educate, influence and entertain its readers and will do this by exercising the First Amendment Rights as defined in the Constitution of the United States of America. The Talon is devoted to professional journalism and fairness in all reporting. The Talon will adhere to a standard of responsible journalism and will refrain from publishing material which is legally libelous, obscene or could disrupt the operation of the school.

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This comic was reprinted from the November issue due to a legibility issue. Comic by Max Kleiner

Talon the

January 2010

Sports

Meeting Mitch Albom: little man, big moment What it was like to meet the famous Free Press sport colunmist at Barnes and Noble in Rochester

Meeting a random somebody, a simple act. Meeting your idol, not so much 11:30 a.m. Winter is in the air. The trees are leafless, roads are icy, and a light blanket of snow covers the ground. I take one last look in the rearview mirror, making sure my lips aren’t too chapped, and my hair doesn’t remind one of the “Little Rascals” characters, Alfalfa. Then, I open the door and instantly cold winds hit my face while getting out of my soccer mom van. Before locking the door, I make sure I have everything needed. Book, check. Camera, check. Questions, check. Phone, check. Car keys, check. After reassuring myself that everything is in hand, I head in to Barnes and Noble, escaping the wrath of old man winter. Seconds after I step into the store, smells of fresh-brewed coffee and new books combine, forming a smell that’s equivalent to the feeling of the last day of school, fireworks on the Fourth of July or waking up on Christmas morning. After browsing the latest “Sports Illustrated” and

“ESPN the Magazine,” I spot where the book signing is taking place. Noticing there is no one in line, I feel great knowing that I will be first to get my book signed. But right after that, a friendly lady with glasses who looks official tells me that I need to get a ticket with a number to hold my place in line. OK, I reply, making my way over to the register. To my pleasure, it says 11. I’m not number one, but at least I’m not 111. I check the time, 11:45. Let the game begin. The Waiting Game So now, with a little over two hours on my hands, I begin to mosey around the store and check out all the books. I start, naturally, with sports and begin to glance through one about the Tigers miserable 2008 season. That holds my attention for about 20 minutes which leads me to hunt down another book of my interest. So I begin to cruise up and down the aisles looking at books from a wide range of genres. “How to save a marriage,” No thanks, I’m not married. “Mastering the Art of French cooking,” Boring, plus I can’t cook American food much less French. “Nauti Boy,” Umm … let’s just skip that one. After my odyssey through the wide range of books, I again find my way to the sports section choosing one about the unwritten rules of baseball. It intrigues me, so I pick it up and find a chair to sit down in. This book is interesting for about 30 minutes which, with a little help from perfect timing, is when the crowd starts to swarm the store. A Wide Range of Books, a Wide Range of People I look at my phone again, it says 1:30. Only 30 minutes before the

signing. I take my place in line, behind person 10 and in front of person 12. They both seem like normal people, unlike some of the others in line. There is a lady in a chair a few feet away who either has ants in her pants or is a little crazy. She’s antsy because she didn’t get a Post-it note to write her name on, which would be used to know what would be written in the book. A few minutes later she’s relieved when the official looking lady from earlier gives her one. A man next to me wearing glasses only now, 25 minutes before the signing, realizes that you need a ticket with a number for your space in line. He says a few choice words not appropriate for this publication then sends his wife to get him a number; by the way, it’s 48. Then, he heads to the end of the line. Finally, the lady about 10 places back looks like she is giving everyone she knows a signed copy of the book. How creative and coincidently this is just in time for the holidays. Checking my phone, its 1:55. Only five minutes away. Meeting Mitch One is probably asking why I would spend over two hours in a book store. Well, fear not, I have a justified reason. I had just finished reading, “Have a Little Faith,” by Mitch Albom, who on that day, had a book signing. And getting a chance to meet my idol and arguably the best columnist in Detroit, possibly the country, isn’t an opportunity one passes up. Again, I check the time. It’s two minutes to 2. Anticipation is rising, causing people to scan the store for the man of the hour. At last, a few minutes after 2, and after waiting for over two hours, Mitch arrives. At first I’m in shock at

It’s a team effort

The receivers are ready, the running back is ready to pounce and the quarterback, freshman John Doroshewitz yells hike. With that single word he commences a play that results in a RHS touchdown and 6 point lead. After the play, he notices a rip in jersey but disregards it due to his beliefs about team funding. “The more popular the sport is the more it receives,” Doroshewitz said. “(And) the sports that require more equipment like football, hockey and lacrosse, should get more funding that those that don’t, like baseball, track and cross country.” While Doroshewitz might like to think his theory is correct, he happens to be wrong according to Athletic Director Mr. Vic Fournier. “I go on need,” Fournier said. “It’s pretty balanced since we do it on needs. (Spending on equipment and jerseys) rotates. We talk with coaches and see their needs. We do a good job to balance the funding and make sure they (the teams) get what they need to operate.” Along with money from the district, sports can receive money from just helping out around the school. “Parents on our team put in a

equal,” Gendich said, “because each sport has a different amount of people interested it in.” Overall, most athletes seem to agree with Gendich. “It should be how many people go to each sport and how much they bring in,” Alvey said. “And not every sports costs as much to play.” For the 2009 baseball season, Alvey had to purchase his own helmet, underarmor, and a hat, totaling around $80. And for those who can’t afford the extra $80 or $2000, the district has come up with ways to help offset financial difficulties. “Like the lunch program, we have free and reduced pay to play based on income,” Mr. Fournier said. “We do whatever we can to help athletes and keep the outof-pocket expense minimal. We haven’t kicked a person off a team due to financial reasons. We don’t want to see kids not participate due to money problems.” Doroshewitz heads to the sidelines, receives words of praise from teammates on the touchdown, gets some water, and then cheers on the defense while waiting for his next chance to represent RHS on the gridiron. And funding, extra expenses and fundraisers aside, most athletes disregard having to pay extra money due to the satisfaction of representing the school in the sport they love. “Despite having to spend extra on equipment for myself,” Doroshewitz said, “I love playing football and wearing blue and white on the field.”

Funding would make us more professional. How can we be a RHS team but we receive almost no funding? Katie Lang,

junior

“

certain amount of hours working (at concessions) and selling tickets to get money,” sophomore basketball and volleyball player Rachel Gendich said. “Also we have fundraisers.” With most teams, the latter seems to be the most popular way to receive extra money. “To get money we do bowling fundraisers,” sophomore baseball player Steve Alvey said. “They give us the most of our funds. Hopefully there will be more.” In addition to fundraisers, some teams would just like to receive any funding at all. “We have to buy tights, uniform, and warm-ups. (Funding) would help make the team more professional,” junior figure skater Katie Lang said. “How can we be a RHS team but we receive almost no funding?” Before one makes a stampede to the AD office, one must take into account previous agreements’between teams and the district. “We try to work with them,” Mr. Fournier said. “Hockey, lacrosse and figure skating are different. Since they are new, they had to raise funds to get started, and we can only help out so much due to the extreme costs.” Those extreme costs make the play to pay seem like nothing. “We pay about $25 for 55 minutes of ice for a practice,” sophomore Cameron Renny said. “Over the course of the season, we pay probably around $2000 dollars.” While some may think an expensive sport, like hockey, should receive more due to its costs, others think it should be based on popularity. “(Funding) shouldn’t be

seeing the man whose column I read every Sunday and four amazing books that I’ve read. He then proceeds to walk right by me, coming so close I could reach out and touch him. But I didn’t because honestly that would be a little weird. While the first few people are saying hello and getting their books signed, my mind is racing about what to say to my idol. “I love your books.” Nah, too cliché. “I’m a longtime fan of your works.” Nope, too predictable. Or, “Keep up the good work.” I know he will so why tell him. After a few other dumb ideas, I choose a more personal one. “I’m the co-sports editor of my high school paper and was wondering what advice do you have for me in the future?” Right after I choose what I chose, it’s my turn to meet Mitch. Stepping up to the table, I say hello, then the phrase I decided on only moments earlier. After a few seconds to decide on how to respond, he, like his weekly columns, says what he wants

in a short amount of time. “First, find a small paper to get started at. A lot of people go to a big place like the Free Press first, and all they do is get coffee, run errands and never go anywhere. At a small place they need you to write stories, set appointments up, basically everything. They actually need you. Also, you’ve got to read everything, not just newspapers, but all types of books, magazines, everything, because it will only make you a better writer.” Once he finishes, he signs my book and asks my grade. Sophomore in high school I reply. “You’re way ahead of me.” Me? A sophomore in high school with only one year of journalistic experience is better than someone who has four best selling books and is one of the top columnists in the nation. How? “I didn’t get started (in journalism) until I was 23.” Meeting a random somebody, simple. Meeting your idol, not so much.

Freshman mens basketball on the rise

Sports funding, Despite misconceptions about funding, it’s not that difficult according to many

Sophomore Aaron Kuhn meets Mitch Albom at a book signing for Albom’s book “Have a Little Faith.” Photo by Claire Kuhn

Upcoming Games A trickle of sweat runs down his face while the sound of a basketball being dribbled echoes throughout the gym. Then, after a few seconds of concentration, freshman Justin Dudley does something near impossible for the tiny freshman. He makes a slam dunk while jumping over fellow teammate freshman Andrew Fawaz. And while this feat is amazing, the freshman mens basketball team’s on-court performance has taken center stage “The team is doing pretty good,” Dudley said. (Hopefully we) have a winning season, and I can just be a good player.” The freshman squad is 4-6 to start the season but hopes to improve before season’s end. “It’s been a little frustrating,” head coach Mr. Adam Hacias said. “We haven’t been able to get the level of intensity needed, but we have had great practices lately that have set the tone for the rest of the year. (I hope) we get better every day, take steps forward, win and play hard in every game and practice.” Most players feel the same. “It’s been pretty good,” cocaption Abren Camaj said, “But we could be doing better. We just have to work together and run through plays good.” After completing the incredible dunk, Dudley runs around, while his teammates give him a standing ovation, in awe of what they just witnessed. And while individual feats, along with winning, are important, some goals are more simple but necessary to obtain the latter. “I hope that everyone plays a good game,” Dudley said, “(We) get along and have fun.”

Opponent Date Seaholm Jan. 29 Stoney Creek Feb. 2 At Lake Orion Feb. 11 At Berkley Feb. 16 Lakeland Feb. 17 Troy Athens Feb. 19 Troy High Feb. 26 Seaholm March 02 Stoney Creek March 04

Their record: As of January 20

4-6

Freshman Justin Dudly practices manuvering around an opponant while displaying his basketball skills. Photo by Aaron Kuhn.

Sports

Talon the

January 2010

Driver’s Ed hall of famer

With MSU attending a bowl game this year, one must remember to look back on former legends—and that includes driver’s ed. teacher Mr. Walt Kowalczyk. Many people know Mr. Kowalczyk as a Courtesy Driver’s instructor, but few know Mr. K. as a past Heisman candidate and NFL athlete. “My life growing up was primarily just playing around with other kids,” Mr. Kowalczyk said. He, along with friends, would go to “the dump” where football, baseball and, in the winter, hockey were played. But Mr. Kowalczyk’s specialty was football, ending up playing for his second school of choice, Michigan State University. “I really wanted to go to Notre Dame, but they said I was too small and too slow,” Mr. Kowalczyk said. “Yet at 190 pounds, I ran the 100 yard dash in ten seconds my best time.” And while at MSU, Mr. Kowalczyk was a part of two of MSU’s greatest teams. “We won [national] championships in 1955 and 1957,” Mr. Kowalczyk said. “The only disappointment I have is that we didn’t get a champion ring back then.” Along with two national titles, Mr. Kowalczyk was made an All-American 1956, an accomplishment he’ll never forget. “(I felt) fabulous, never thought it would happen to me and if it wasn’t for

the other 32 ball players, I don’t think I would have been able to do it,” Mr. Kowalczyk said. While Mr. Kowalczyk achieved his main goal at MSU, finding success in football, he also found success in the love department. “I was walking into my first class, and the fella that was with me, one of my classmates, I gave him a jib in the rib and said, “‘See that blonde over there, I’m going to marry her.’ And at the end of my junior y e a r we were married,” M r . Kowalczyk said. Often with love, one acts irrationally, but for M r . Kowalczyk, his irrational act was during the proposal. “I gave her a ring, but the fact is I put it on the wrong finger,” Mr. Kowalcyzk said. “You’re supposed to put it on the left hand, I put it on the right.” With a wife, the days of “The Sprinting Black Smith” were over, a nick name with a tale of its own. “Somehow reporters came up with the name. But I looked it up and my last name, Kowalczyk, means ‘son of

Left: Mr. Kowalczyk, a former Michigan State football player, rushes on to the field during a game in 1957. Photo Courtesy of Joann Delia; Above: Mr. Kowalczyk teaches a driver’s ed class. Photo by Aaron Kuhn

a blacksmith.’ So if somebody says to me, ‘Hey you s.o.b., you’ve got to be careful how you say it, it better be son of a blacksmith,” Mr. Kowalczyk said. Getting away from derogatory terms involving Mr. Kowalczyk, his next step in life after marriage should have been clear. A house with a white

picket fence, a kid or two and a dog perhaps? Nope. For Mr. Kowalczyk it was the NFL. “I was drafted by Philadelphia Eagles with the number one pick (sixth overall),” Mr. Kowalczyk said. Mr. Kowalczyk’s first play in the NFL was one for the ages. “It was an exhibition game against

the New York Giants, played it in Hershey Pennsylvania, where the Eagles had their training camp,” Mr. Kowalczyk said. “The first play was my number and Norm ‘The Dutchmen’ Van Brocklin, pitched the ball to me and I went right around for about 50 yards and a touchdown.” After two years with the Eagles, Mr. Kowalczyk was traded to the Detroit Lions where the team did not experience many wins. “I was traded to Detroit long enough for a ‘Hello, how are you?, goodbye,’ then I went to Dallas, then Oakland, then retired. I played for Oakland probably a month, and just had it and didn’t want to play anymore,” Mr. Kowalczyk said. After retirement from the NFL, Mr. Kowalczyk ended up in the classroom. “I taught health and gym in Pontiac,” Mr. Kowalczyk said, “and also during the school year, Driver’s Ed.” Maybe that was the planted seed that helped Mr. Kowalczyk end up at Courtesy Driving School by ‘seeing an ad and making a call,’ a job that now he enjoys. “I love seeing the teenager get that license and bring it to me and show it, saying, ‘Here it is Mr.K, I got it,’” Mr. Kowalczyk said. Though he’s already come out of retirement once, when asked about retiring for a second time, his answer is a firm one. “I’m going to retire, the only question is when,” Mr. Kowalczyk said. “I’m having too much fun. I enjoy what I do.”

Girls LAX trains for future season Sophomore Maria Skoczylas sprints down the field, dodges the opposing defense and runs to the goal for a shot. It’s a good thing Skoczylas started training early for the spring lacrosse season. “My skills have improved so much with the early training,” Skoczylas said. “My reflexes have improved, and I can run longer and faster without getting as tired as I used to.” Many players’ skills have begun to improve for the upcoming season. The girls’ lacrosse team started their training in early January. “I think that the team starting training this early will be really helpful,” sophomore Maggie Cummings said. “All the girls will be fit and ready for the intense practices and games.” The players and the coaches are excited about the girls’ potential Coaches are hoping to help newcomers improve. “As for the quality of this year’s team, I’m very optimistic,” head coach Dave Hamel said. “We have an exceptionally experienced and athletic group of returning and new players, and I expect the team to do well.”

Want to train like a champ? Try out these routine Lacrosse conditioning exercises • Jumping Jacks • Lunges • Side Lunges • High Knees • Butt Kicks •One minute wall-sit • Hamstring Leg Lift - 2 sets of 12 • Planks -2 reps of 20 seconds • Push ups • Sprint Jogs Sophomores Katie Krako, Caitlyn Kuskowski, and Aly Rosenau receive instruction from lacrosse coach David Hamel during a training session. Photo by Deb Schneider

College bowl games: blow-outs to upsets Boise a great finish to an undefeated regular season. Despite the great year, however, the Broncos did not have a chance to compete for the national championship. “The BCS system is the only thing holding college football back,” Brennan said. “Teams that finish the season without a loss deserve a chance to play for a championship, and some teams start the season knowing that they don’t have a chance.” The current postseason system

for college football is the Bowl Championship Series (BCS). The national championship is the final game of the season, and the two teams are decided by the BCS rankings. “With a playoff, many more teams get a chance to win,” junior Michael Kmiec said. “It is also more exciting and fun to watch.” College football is the only major sport that uses something other than a playoff to decide its champion. In the 2009 season Cincinnati,

Boise State, and TCU all finished undefeated, but did not get a chance at a championship. “A playoff fixes the only problem that college football has,” sophomore Stephen Acciaioli said. “The best team wins every time with no debate. This needs to happen.” This season Cincinnati finished undefeated in the regular season playing in the Big East, which is a major conference and didn’t have a shot at the title.

“The BCS isn’t a fair way to decide a champion,” junior Doug Boehm said. “I watched Cincinnati this whole season and they didn’t lose. It only makes sense they have a playoff.” Nearly everyone agrees that a playoff system is necessary, but it still remains an unlikely alternative. “The BCS is still around for one reason,” Brennan said. “Money is all that it comes down to and that is the last problem for the possibility of a playoff.”

BCS National Championship,

FedEx Orange Bowl,

Tostitos Fiesta Bowl,

Allstate Sugar Bowl, New Orleans, Louisiana

Rose Bowl,

Pasadena, California

Alabama Crimson Tide- 37

Iowa Hawkeyes- 24

Boise State Broncos- 17

Florida Gators- 51

Ohio State Buckeyes- 26

Junior Trip Brennan watched Boise State, his favorite college football team, blow out New Mexico State in the final game of the regular season with a frown on his face. The win gave

Pasadena, California

Texas Longhorns- 21

Miami, Florida

Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets- 14

Glendale, Arizona

TCU Horned Frogs- 10

Cincinnati Bearcats- 24

Oregon Ducks- 17

HAITI:

Ravaged by the most deadly earthquake since 1976, the people of Haiti receive help from around the world to rebuild

The Hatchling A flag flies near the collapsed National Palace in Port-au Prince, Haiti, Monday, January 18, 2010. (Patrick Farrell/Miami Herald/MCT)

JANUARY 26, 2010 VOLUME I ISSUE 5 ROCHESTER HIGH SCHOOL

January 2010

HELP HAITI: Save lives by sending a text Senior Jennifer Day was logging on to Yahoo to check her e-mail like many others on January 12. Instead of being greeted by the usual bits of celebrity gossip, Day was faced with images of devastation. A 7.0 magnitude had struck Haiti and leveled its capital, Portau-Prince. “I knew it was a terrible disaster and was instantly reminded about how poor Haiti is,” Day said. According to CNN.com, Haiti is the poorest country in the western hemisphere. With a debilitated government, widespread chaos and death toll of 200,000 and counting, Haiti is faced with many challenges.

“America hasn’t even recovered from Hurricane Katrina,” Day said. “How is a third world country like Haiti going to be able to handle the devastation?” Fortunately, the world is coming to Haiti’s aid. There are many fundraisers aiming to bring relief to Haiti. “Yele Haiti is good fundraiser because it is Grammy award winning artist Wyclef Jean’s foundation, and he was born in Haiti,” Day said. “Also, the Red Cross is always a safe organization to use.” Many students have already reached out to help Haiti. Sophomore Vishal Modi used one of the most popular methods. “We the people of the U.S. are lucky to have the money to help others,” Modi said. “I

texted HAITI to 90999 to add $10 dollars to my phone bill to help Haiti.” Senior Natalie Lyon has also donated. “My family has already donated through the Red Cross and to a Methodist Mission currently working in Haiti,” Lyon said. Junior Elayne Wang thinks donating is important. “Many nations have come together to help Haiti in all ways possible,” Wang said. “There are little things that individuals can do that can really make a difference. Texting is incredibly easy and it is going towards a good cause.” Day seconds Wang’s notion. “The world can try harder because nobody is going to miss a few dollars,” Day said. “Help Haiti.”

Nearly a week after a major earthquake in Haiti, people navigate the debris in downtown Port-au-Prince, Haiti, on Monday January 18, 2010. Photo by Patrick Farrell/Miami Herald/MCT

HAITI CRISIS BY THE NUMBERS

7.0

The magnitude of the initial earthquake on January 12

6.1

The magnitude of the aftershock on January 20

A flag flies near the collapsed National Palace in Port-au Prince, Haiti, Monday, January 18, 2010. Photo by Patrick Farrell/Miami Herald/MCT

3 million

people in need of food, clothing and shelter

355 million

A large tent city has been set up at the Petionville Club in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, Monday, January 18, 2009. The U.S. Army is distributing food and water at the tent city. Photo by Michael Laughlin/Sun Sentinel/MCT

A makeshift tent city has grown near the National Palace in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, Monday, January 18, 2010. Photo by Patrick Farrell/Miami Herald/MCT

dollars raised so far to help Hatians cope with the devestartion

500,000

people camped in “tent city” in downtown Port-Au-Prince after the quake

200,000 the area affected Source: cnn.com

Deaths in A large tent city has been set up at the Petionville Club in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, Monday, January 18, 2009. The U.S. Army is distributing food and water at the tent city. Photo by Michael Laughlin/Sun Sentinel/MCT

Haitians watch aid ships and helicopters from the water edge south of Port-au-Prince, Haiti, on Monday, January 18, 2010, nearly one week after the earthquake struck the island nation. Photo by Carolyn Cole/Los Angeles Times/MCT

Nearly one week after a major earthquake struck Haiti, Seraphine Joseph, age 2, is still waiting to be cared for at a clinic in Leogane, Monday, January 18, 2010. Photo by Carolyn Cole/Los Angeles Times /MCT

The Hatchling January 2010

Looking for a lovely lass? Begin here.

Talon Love Quiz! 1. What is the first thing you notice about a guy/girl? a) Smile and sense of humor b) Their bangin’ personality c) Their personality d) Their bling e) The whole package

If you chose mostly As, your 2. Your idea of the perfect date is Talon love a) Anything that is out of the is Jordan ordinary and fun Hubbard! b) On a boat

c) Someplace that would make me laugh. Like a comic book convention. d) April 25 because it’s not too hot and it’s not too cold, all you need is a light jacket e) April 20, 2014

If you chose mostly Bs, your Talon love is Kristen 3. If you could live anywhere in Pop! the world, where would you go? If you chose mostly Cs, your Talon love is Madison Reitzel! If you chose mostly Ds, your Talon love is Laura Herbert!

a) Chicago b) I would go live with the munchkins in Munchkinland c) Detroit in the 20s d) The moon e) France 4. What is your favorite pick-up line? a) “Are you a magician? Because when I look at you everyone else disappears.” b) “If I could rearrange the alphabet I’d make it so ‘U’ and ‘I’ are together.” c) “If you were a burger at McDonalds, you would be called ‘the McGorgeous’” d) “Hi, who’s your friend?” e) “Are you a pirate? ‘Cause I want your booty.”

If you chose mostly Es, 5. What word best describes you? your Talon a) Driven love is Amy b) Momma Mackens! c) Bubbly d) Fergalicious e) Reliable

1. What is the first thing you notice about a guy/girl? a) Eyes and sense of humor b) Hair color c) Sense of humor d) How open they are e) As long as they don’t look like they’re a Snorlax

Those seeking a groovy guy, start here. If you chose mostly As, your Talon love is Max Kleiner!

2. Your idea of the perfect date is a) A good date is soft to semisoft, and ALWAYS dry. They have to be chewy, or else they’ll turn rotten real quick. Get it? Like the fruit? b) Walking on a rocky beach with the penguins c) A quick bite and a movie that doesn’t suck d) I’d cook for them or take them to dinner e) Somewhere with a lot of food or Lifetime Fitness

If you chose mostly Bs, your Talon love is Drew Hoffman!

3. If you could live anywhere in the world, where would you go?

If you chose mostly Cs, your Talon love is James Giardina!

a) A hut in the African grasslands b) San Francisco c) 21°21’ N 157°55’W d) I’d go everywhere e) Melbourne 4.What is your favorite pick-up line? a) “Hey baby...” b) “If they let me rearrange the alphabet, I would put ‘U’ and ‘I’ together.” c) “I don’t know how to put this, I’m kind of a big deal.” d) “You must be thirsty, because you’ve been running through my mind all day long.” e) “I must be hunting treasure, because I’m digging your chest.” 5.What word best describes you? a) b) c) d) e)

Accipitrine Ginger-lite Majestic Speshal Absurd

If you chose mostly Ds, your Talon love is AndyZhou!

If you chose mostly Es, your Talon love is Arthur Lee!