March 2011 Issue

Page 1

March 2011 - Volume 73

New smoking laws p.2

- Issue 7

p.8

Controversy has risen over the new laws in Honduras. Although it is not technically illegal to smoke at home, it FRXOG FRPH ZLWK D ¿QH DQG an arrest.

Bound for NCAA p.8 1 80 S.

Livernois

- Rochester High School - Rochester Hills M

While graduation is the end of organized sports for most, for 10 seniors moving on to the NCAA, their journey is only just beginning.

7 I, 4830

DISASTER HITS JAPAN W

hile most Americans were tucked away safely in their beds early on March 11, Japan was hit by an earthquake with extreme levels reaching 9.0, the largest earthquake to impact Japan in 140 years. But the true tragedy is not only the damage the earthquake caused, but the tsunami that followed: a tsunami which ended up taking an estimated 10,000, or more, lives. A man escapes the wreckage of the tsunami and subsequent aftershocks. Photo Courtesy of AFP

Katie Ziraldo Entertainment Editor

A husband comforts his wife in the midst of the aftermath of the March 11 earthquake. Photo Courtesy of JIJI Press / AFP / Getty Images

Residents Respond Philip Brooks,

Eriko Akahoshi

Q: How would you describe the experience of the last few days?

Q: What do the people of Japan need most at this time?

A: From our office window, we could also see clouds

A: The people in the Tohoku Area need food, water,

Minato-Ku, Tokyo

of black smoke coming from the bay area. Generally in the area surrounding my building though, everything looked in tact, which kept me from being overly worried about my family. Although immediately during and after the earthquake, I was not able to get in touch with my wife as the cell phone networks were all down. Our office lines were working, as was the internet, so I followed along with developments using Google’s realtime updates (mostly people’s Twitter messages). Eventually, I was able to get through to my wife via email and she let me know that they were alright. The majority of people in my office were stranded as the trains stopped running and they ended up sleeping there overnight. I was fortunate in that I could walk home - it took an hour and a half, and was mostly walking on the road as the sidewalks were packed with people doing the same. The taxi lines were incredible, they stretched four or five city blocks, with no taxis in sight. After walking down 17 flights of stairs, trekking back home, it was another fifteen flights up to get to our apartment. The apartment was largely undamaged, with the exception of a few glass vases that fell and shattered on the floor. Yesterday and today, the aftershocks have been disconcerting. It was getting difficult for us to tell if we were having a real aftershock or if it was just in our heads, so we installed an Advanced Earthquake Indication System: a fifty yen coin hanging from a foot of dental floss pinned to the ceiling.

Yokohama, Kanagawa Prefecture

shelter, and every other lifeline matters. As a country, Japan definitely needs support from our overseas friends to overcome this tragedy. We are a country that has been through so many devastating tragedies in the past and have overcome all of them stronger then ever. We will overcome this tragedy as well, but we cannot do it without support. Watching all the men and women who are gathering from all over the world to help with the rescue has been very moving and has kept us strong.

Q: How much information are you able to get access to (about aftershocks, tsunamis, and/ or the nuclear plants)? Has the government been good with communication, if it’s even possible? A: All the TV channels are only showing news footage

and information on the earthquake. The government has been very good with keeping all of us informed and are constantly on TV sharing information as soon as anything new comes up. TV and the internet have been great sources for information.

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News

2

Talon the

March 2011

A crowd protesting the possible movie industry tax incentive cuts. Photo by Kimberly P. Mitchell

Mr. Birelson These “artistic young peopleâ€? could be feels that mere considered those like senior Trip Brennan, who talk of capping the SODQV WR VWXG\ ÂżOP LQ FROOHJH incentive has the potential Âł,ÂśP LQWHUHVWHG LQ SXUVXLQJ ÂżOP VWXGLHV DQG to hurt the industry. cinema studies, which is the critical and analytical “Even discussing cutting it means that there VLGH RI ÂżOP ´ %UHQQDQ VDLG Âł, WKLQN WKH ÂżOP ZLOO EH D ORW RI SHRSOH PDNLQJ ÂżOPV ZKR ZLOO incentive is a good thing and it has attracted a lot of immediately start moving to other cities,â€? Mr. business; however, I think that Governor Snyder Birelson said. “Cutting the program will be the LV MXVWLÂżHG LQ WU\LQJ WR ORZHU WKH ÂżOP LQFHQWLYH HQG RI ÂżOP LQGXVWU\ LQ 0LFKLJDQ ,W LV D ORQJ WHUP VLPSO\ EHFDXVH ZH FDQÂśW DIIRUG LW /RZHULQJ LW investment and is going to will, though, absolutely develop long term business destroy a large part here.â€? RI WKH ÂżOP LQGXVWU\ LQ Some of those “other Michigan.â€? citiesâ€? include Vancouver, Mr. Knudsen, who Toronto, and cities on the started as a driver for :HVW &RDVW $FFRUGLQJ WR the Teamsters 10 years Birelson, the incentive is ago, has changed his WKH ÂżQDO WRXFK WR D OLVW RI OLIH WKURXJK ÂżOP +H DWWUDFWLYH EHQHÂżWV WKDW SXW along with many, hopes the lake state above other that the industry will locations. remain strong within “Michigan is so diverse the state despite the LQ WHUPV RI ÂżOP ´ 0U drops that are already Trip Brennan, Birelson said. “It can be occurring. Northern California; it Âł/DVW \HDU , GLG D senior can be Italy; it can be ÂżOP LQ RXU KRPHWRZQ $QWDUFWLFD RU HYHQ WKH RI 5RFKHVWHU FDOOHG desert. Michigan is also Âľ$QRWKHU +DSS\ 'D\ ϫ looking to build studios, in which case there is 0U .QXGVHQ VDLG Âł,W ZDV ÂżOPHG DOO LQ 5RFKHVWHU a chance to have indoor sets. Previously, movies and north of town in Oakland Township. This were made on the East Coast or California, and ZDV WKH WKLUG ÂżOP , KDG GRQH IRU WKH SURGXFHUV they get a certain sameness to them. Michigan as 3HWHU 3DVWRUHOOL DQG &HOLQH 5DWWUD\ KHUH LQ an alternative is so diverse.â€? 0LFKLJDQ )RU WKH VKRZ LQ 5RFKHVWHU WKH WDOHQW +RZHYHU 0U %LUHOVRQ UHFRJQL]HV WKDW ÂżOP DQG D KDQGIXO RI FUHZ ZHUH IURP /$ OHVV WKDQ is extremely mercenary, and some, like Mr. ÂżYH SHUFHQW 7KLV VKRZV KRZ WKH PRQH\ LV Knudsen, feel that the “all about the moneyâ€? starting to stay here and our local crew base is QDWXUH RI ÂżOP ZLOO KXUW 0LFKLJDQ LPPHQVHO\ JURZLQJ 7KH\ ORYHG 5RFKHVWHU VR PXFK WKDW Âł7KHUH ZRXOG EH QR UHDVRQ WR PDNH D ÂżOP they were, I said were, scheduled to do two more KHUH ´ 0U .QXGVHQ VDLG Âł$OO WKH FUHZV WKDW KDYH SURGXFWLRQV LQ 5RFKHVWHU %HFDXVH RI WKH WDON RI PRYHG KHUH ZRXOG OHDYH $OO WKH LQVSLULQJ DUWLVWLF a 25 million cap, they are on hold and probably young people, students and video game designers VFRXWLQJ DQRWKHU VWDWH LQ FDVH LW VWD\V $ ORW RI ZRXOG JR HOVHZKHUH $Q LQGXVWU\ ZH GLGQÂśW KDYH money would have, and still can be, spent in my before would go away.â€? community. I hope it does.â€? er n Palm y Bria b n io rat Illust

For many, like Transportation Coordinator and member of the Teamster local union 337 Mr. Kurt .QXGVHQ 0LFKLJDQÂśV WD[ LQFHQWLYH IRU WKH ÂżOP industry has been life changing. Mr. Knudsen KDV FUHDWHG PDQ\ WKLQJV ZLWK KLV FDUHHU LQ ÂżOP EHVLGHV VLPSO\ ÂżOPV $PRQJ WKHVH KH FUHDWHG more nights out, more trips to his family’s cabin and more art classes, dance lessons and sports camps for his three children. “It has changed our way of life immensely,â€? Mr. Knudsen said. “I’ve created a whole new career. There were some tough times for me and P\ IDPLO\ ÂżQDQFLDOO\ XS WLOO WKH ÂżOP EL] VWDUWHG ,W KDV DOORZHG P\ IDPLO\ ÂżQDQFLDO VHFXULW\ >DQG to] basically take advantage of all that is offered here in Michigan.â€? But Mr. Knudsen, like many others working LQ WKH 0LFKLJDQ ÂżOP LQGXVWU\ LV IDFLQJ WKH possibility that all this creation could be halted with Governor Snyder’s proposal to cap the VWDWHÂśV WD[ LQFHQWLYHV IRU ÂżOPPDNHUV 7KH incentives currently offer 40 to 42 percent credit WR WKRVH FUHDWLQJ ÂżOPV LQ 0LFKLJDQ LI WKH\ VSHQG $50,000 or more in Michigan businesses. This includes Teamsters like Mr. Knudsen as well as set designers and constructors, cameramen,

editing crews, makeup artists, costume designers and caterers, to name a few. This need for resources and labor in Michigan has built up a brand-new industry within the state. 'RFXPHQWDU\ ÂżOP SURGXFHU 0U 5RG %LUHOVRQ ZKR KDV ZRUNHG ZLWK 0LFKDHO 0RRUH RQ ÂżOPV VXFK DV Âł5RJHU 0H ´ Âł6LFNR´ DQG Âł&DSLWDOLVP $ /RYH 6WRU\ ´ EHOLHYHV WKDW 0LFKLJDQ LV RQ LWV way to becoming an established business. “The infrastructure has developed with experienced professionals moving here or people moving here and gaining experience, so you have a community of trained professionals,â€? Mr. Birelson said. “To continue this may cost a lot, but it’s like building a brand new auto factory and not using it; it’s wasteful. The infrastructure is here now with the service and equipment, which means that Michigan is participating in WKLV VLQJXODUO\ $PHULFDQ DUW IRUP ´ $ORQJ ZLWK DGGHG LQGXVWU\ FRPHV WKH YDOXH added for Michigan residents. Âł$V D /RFDO &RRUGLQDWRU , KLUH DOO ORFDO workers,â€? Mr. Knudsen said. “On any of my shows I hire around 20 drivers. These drivers average around $1500 a week, some up to $3000 D ZHHN $ ORW RI WKHVH GULYHUV ZHUH XQHPSOR\HG DQG ZHUH LQ ÂżQDQFLDO WURXEOH 6RPH VDYHG WKHLU homes from foreclosure. Some bought new cars. $OO RI WKHP JRW FDXJKW XS RQ WKHLU ELOOV 7KH\ JRW WR WDNH WKHLU IDPLOLHV RQ YDFDWLRQV >RU@ RXW WR GLQQHU >DQG@ HQUROO WKHLU NLGV LQ FODVVHV +DYH a stress free Christmas. The point is that all my employees and venders saw extra income. Which with they hired more workers, bought new HTXLSPHQW RU VDYHG WKHLU EXVLQHVVHV $QG WKH\ DOO paid taxes. It all trickles down.â€?

“

/RZHULQJ >ÂżOP incentives] will, though, absolutely destroy a large part RI WKH ÂżOP LQGXVWU\ in Michigan

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Honduras smoking laws spark controversy 2Q )HEUXDU\ +RQGXUDV LQVWDWHG new laws that ban smoking in most public and private places, as well as a provision that could potentially lead to an arrest for anyone who lights up a cigarette in his or her own residence. While it is not technically illegal to smoke cigarettes inside homes, WKH ODZ GRHV DOORZ SHRSOH WR ÂżOH complaints about secondhand smoke in households. Violations would bring D YHUEDO ZDUQLQJ RQ WKH ÂżUVW RIIHQVH potentially followed by an arrest DQG D ÂżQH Âą WKH HTXLYDOHQW RI D PLQLPXP PRQWKO\ ZDJH LQ +RQGXUDV It is this provision that has seemingly VWXQQHG +RQGXUDQV DV ZHOO DV PDQ\ others around the world. “It just seems too extreme,â€? senior Tyler Beutler said. “I mean, I understand wanting to cut down on smoking, but to say that you could be arrested for smoking inside your own house? It’s

kind of ridiculous.â€? 6HQLRU 7D\ORU +ROPHV VD\V VKH DJUHHV WKDW WKH +RQGXUDQ JRYHUQPHQW may be overstepping its boundaries. +RZHYHU +ROPHV DOVR VD\V WKDW VKH believes something should be done to decrease smoking. “I kind of think it’s unnecessary,â€? +ROPHV VDLG Âł, PHDQ , DJUHH WKDW smoking is bad and that some people, like children, should be protected, but I’m not sure if the government should be able to come into your house and arrest you for smoking. If I was at someone’s house and they were smoking, I would think it was kind of disgusting and just leave.â€? In recent years, +RQGXUDV KDV EHJXQ correlating respiratory GLVHDVHV ZLWK VPRNLQJ $ recent study conducted by +RQGXUDQ KHDOWK DXWKRULWLHV claimed that nine out RI +RQGXUDQV suffering from acute bronchitis live in a home where someone s m o k e s . $ F F R U G L Q J to St. Joe Medical Building nurse Terri Taylor, this study is not surprising.

Smoking, although dangerous to one’s health, is common across the globe. Photo by Daniel Jorda. Smoke illustration by Brian Palmer

Smoking causes many health and addiction issues. Still, many engage in smoking, such as this woman. Photo by Mark Greene

“Nicotine, the key ingredient in cigarettes, is extremely addictive. Smoking can cause both physical and mental addictions that can cause chills, vomiting, fever, nausea, fatigue and other symptoms, as well as many respiratory diseases.â€? Because of the potential dangers in VPRNLQJ VRSKRPRUH 0LFKHOOH /DWRXI says it is important to take action. “It is very important to try and “Smoking SUHYHQW VPRNLQJ ´ /DWRXI VDLG Âł:HÂśUH has always been known to told that smoking is bad when we are KDYH VLJQLÂżFDQW kids, but nobody really gets that. I health risks,â€? just think kids are annoyed by it and Mrs. Taylor said. could care less as they grow up. But

smoking does so much to the brain, the economy, and the air. It causes diseases, learning disorders and death in all people, regardless of education or employment.â€? )RU SHRSOH OLNH /DWRXI VPRNLQJ RU experiencing secondhand smoke can hold additional dangers. “Smoking is causing pollution, disease, and increasing the number of people with diseases like lung cancer,â€? /DWRXI VDLG Âł,W GRHV VR PXFK GDPDJH to our world and the people in it. People like me, who have asthma, end up having asthma attacks when there’s smoke around because there’s just not

enough oxygen in the air anymore.â€? +RZHYHU ZKLOH /DWRXI VDLG VKH agrees that something must be done to prevent smoking, she also said it might not be feasible for the United States to implement a similar policy. “If the U.S. tried this, I don’t think it ZRXOG JR RYHU YHU\ ZHOO ´ /DWRXI VDLG “The people here just wouldn’t be able to handle the law. There are so many people that are addicted to smoking that they can’t stop. They would do anything, including breaking the law, to please themselves – and that would just cause a bigger problem.â€?

Feature

Talon the

March 2011

3

Greenhouse undergoes improvements In the B hallway across from Mr. Duffy’s room is an over-grown room called the greenhouse. This overrun and messy room, which has been neglected since science teacher Mrs. Evie Boss retired three years ago, is being turned around with the efforts of a few students from the science/ conservation club to help improve the school. “We clean the greenhouse almost every day of the week,â€? junior Alice Lalone said. “We hope [to get] it all accomplished by March 7 of this year.â€? Cleaning the greenhouse is a huge job, as WKH JUHHQKRXVH PXVW EH FOHDQHG IURP Ă€RRU WR ceiling. “In the beginning we needed to wash all of the windows and get rid of the demon mold, rearrange the setup and get rid of any unnecessary items, such as pots, outdated pesticides and dead plants,â€? Lalone said. “We also needed to attack the overgrown vine that was slowly taking over WKH ZKROH SODFH /DVWO\ ZH QHHG WR ÂżJXUH RXW KRZ WR Âż[ WKH ZDWHULQJ V\VWHP VR WKDW LW FDQ EH XVHG properly and any other general housekeeping, like sweeping.â€? The greenhouse was not used very much in the past few years until Lalone, junior Andrea Nadijarian, junior Danielle Harm, and junior Jillian Gassen along with science and math teacher Mrs. Michelle Reckling started to transform WKH JUHHQKRXVH $FFRUGLQJ WR 1DGMDULDQ ÂżUVW impressions of the greenhouse seem positive. “Right now [the greenhouse] has lots of potential,â€? Nadjarian said. When each task is crossed off the checklist, according to Gassen, improvements are obvious. Âł>, IHHO@ YHU\ DFFRPSOLVKHG ZKHQ ZH ÂżQLVK a part of the greenhouse,â€? junior Jillian Gassen said. “The greenhouse was so messy, so when we ÂżQLVK D VPDOO WKLQJ LW PDNHV D ELJ GLIIHUHQFH ´ The greenhouse’s opening day was on March 7. The greenhouse will be cleaned and new plants

Junior Alice Lalone waters some of the plants in the greenhouse after school. Photo by Caitlyn McGoldrick

will be grown. A few different ideas for after the greenhouse is cleaned is to grow food plants. “I think we might grow food like tomatoes, dill, lettuce and other common grown food,â€? Michelle Reckling said. “We might use it for H[SHULPHQWV RU VHOO RU JLYH DZD\ >WKH GLIIHUHQW plants].â€? :KDWHYHU WKH ÂżQDO GHFLVLRQ IRU WKH JUHHQKRXVH Lalone seems to believe the greenhouse will be taken care of. “Going into the greenhouse is almost like a dream because of the smell, “Lalone said. “The whole greenhouse smells like green growing things and wet dirt. If you’ve ever been to Bordines or any other greenhouses, you’ll know what I’m talking about. During all this cold weather and snow, it’s one of the most amazing smells I can think of.â€?

As the 2010-2011 school year slowly comes to a close, Student Council evaluates events and activities and prepares for the rest of the year

With the year drawing to an end, seniors look forward to prom and graduation, as is customary. However, the Student Council has plans that will have everyone anticipating end-of-the-year H[FLWHPHQW “We have lots of events in store,â€? English teacher and Student Council Adviser Mrs. Kelley Cusmano said. “We have another dodge ball tournament, our Bi-Annual charity week, lunchtime activities, Night with the Stars, and teacher appreciation week. Although the Student Council has lofty plans for the end of the 2011 school year, they are also met with pressing stress. “[Planning events] is so stressful because if something goes wrong, we won’t live it down for the entire \HDU ´ VHQLRU $O\ 'LÂżOLSSR VDLG “ [ W e hear] not only from the students, but from the administration as well. It is hard to get people to forget bad

things that happen so our goal is to not have anything go wrong.â€? Through this collaboration, Council members learn to respect what they do on a daily basis. “Student council makes you appreciate events more because you understand how stressful it is to plan them,â€? junior Stephen Acciaioli said. “[Student Council] is important because it teaches you to be a leader, and also helps you get out of your comfort zone and get more involved.â€? For some, participating in Student Council is more than a way to reach out; it is a valuable learning H[SHULHQFH “The skills I’ve learned in [Student Council] over the last 4 years have made me more outgoing, have made me more accepting to new things and have made me able to QRW VZHDW WKH VPDOO VWXII ´ 'LÂżOLSSR said. “Student Council has been the best thing I have done in high school and I am so glad that I have stuck with it.â€? Mrs. Cusmano agrees. “Student Council brings together the student body,â€? Mrs. Cusmano said. “It gives students an outlet to just have fun with their friends and other people; it gives them a chance to reach out to their community and participate.â€?

Juniors Taylor Clark and Laura Stewart work on a project in Student Council. Photo by Nate Barton

Juniors Alice Lalone and Jillian Gassen take care of the greenhouse plants almost every day. Photo by Caitlyn McGoldrick

:

Student Council prepares for year-end events

Although the greenhouse has not been cleaned in a while, students hope to restore it. Photo by Caitlyn McGoldrick

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Taco Tuesday is always an adventure. Usually Tuesday isn’t that great of a day, but Taco Tuesday always makes the day so much brighter.

Celene Mo, senior

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Seniors Matt Goethals and Leah Evanson sit down at the table and enjoy their tacos. Photo by Steven McConnell

Seniors Chris Saber, Celene Mo and Dan Nyugen eat tacos. Photo by Steven McConnell

Seniors continue weekly tradition

Every Tuesday, snow, rain, or shine, a group of RHS students herd to senior Trip Brennan’s house for their weekly dose of Mrs. Leta Brennan’s tacos. “I enjoy having everyone over,� Mrs. Brennan said. “I wouldn’t be able to meet some of Trip’s friends if I didn’t do taco Tuesday.� The tacos are prepared by Mrs. Brennan, who awaits the arriving students every Tuesday during second lunch, and according to her, it takes a lot of work to satisfy the kids. “I have to do the shopping,� Mrs. Leta Brennan said. “I cook the meat the day before to make sure I have it ready for when the students come. During my weekly shopping, I stock up on taco accessories to make sure I have enough lettuce, cheese, and salsa every week.� Not only does Mrs. Brennan welcome the students to her house, but Trip Brennan does as well. “Trip has been a great guy,� senior Brad McCauley said. “He has been great to let me, along with friends even in other lunches, to come over and enjoy his mother’s fantastic tacos.� Senior Chris Saber said he enjoys the tacos but that he believes that Taco Tuesday can be a great way to gather with friends and classmates as well. “The people are great,� Saber said. “It’s a good group and Mrs. Brennan does a fantastic job preparing the food. The social aspect

combined with the tacos make for a perfect lunch.� Lunch on Tuesday is a time to enjoy the privilege of off campus lunch, according to senior Celene Mo. “Taco Tuesday is always an adventure,� Mo said. “Usually Tuesday isn’t that great of a day, but Taco Tuesday always makes the day so much brighter.� Senior Trip Brennan said he loves the atmosphere the students help create at his house. “The group is always enthusiastic,� Trip Brennan said. “Everyone loves to eat tacos and just enjoys the thirty minutes we have to hang out.� According to McCauley, Mrs. Brennan welcome students who enter her house with open arms. “It’s truly a pleasure to have these kids come over,� Mrs. Brennan said. “I think it’s just a lot of fun and all the kids are very respectful. I look forward to seeing each of them every Tuesday.�

Senior Matt Goethals grabs a spoon and begins to put meat on his taco. Photo by Steven McConnell

Lifestyles

4

Talon the

March 2011

Strange addictions attract attention psychologist in the Henry Ford Health System, said they may all share a common thread. Quickly, freshman Katie O’Bezil “People with compulsive addictions runs over to the couch. She grabs her tend to exhibit a trait called ‘delay red blanket covered with pictures of discounting,’ or the tendency to devalue sheep, which she has cuddled with ever rewards and punishments that will since she was six, and turns on the TV. occur in the future,â€? Dr. Corby said. Like she does almost every Wednesday “They may also have a predisposition night, O’Bezil intently watches as the toward what is called ‘reward myopia,’ TLC show “My Strange Addictionâ€? which is the tendency toward the focuses on individuals with an unusual LPPHGLDWH JUDWLÂżFDWLRQ DQ DGGLFWLRQ obsession. can provide.â€? “It’s such a weird show, but I love According to Dr. Corby, the it,â€? O’Bezil said. “It’s interesting to see solution may lie in Brain Training. some of the addictions on the show. It This cognitive therapy involves kind of shows me how different we all giving patients exercises focusing are and how just one thing that happens on strengthening areas of the brain can lead to people doing the weirdest associated with storing and managing things the rest of their life.â€? information to guide behavior. In a culture that is constantly Although Brain Training was originally moving and encouraging individuality, developed to help patients recovering O’Bezil said she sees obsession being from traumatic brain injury, Dr. Corby showcased more and more frequently. said she has found it successful in Still, O’Bezil said she cannot help but treating dependencies. be stunned by certain addictions. “My experience with Brain Training “One of the addictions I saw on has been exciting,â€? Dr. Corby said. ‘My Strange Addiction’ was about a “I’ve seen clients learn to develop girl who ate pottery,â€? O’Bezil said. “It competing thoughts and goals that just gave me chills down my spine. I not only challenge their maladaptive was shocked that this girl was still patterns like depression or AD/HD but okay even after doing something that also replace those thoughts with real seems so unhealthy.â€? expectations of rewards in the future.â€? Regardless of exactly what type However, Dr. Corby said that of addiction people face, junior Katie therapies like Brain Training can only Lepine said that there can be extreme be successful if a patient is willing to drawbacks. change his or her behavior. Âł, GHÂżQLWHO\ WKLQN LW ZRXOG EH “If clients were to reconsider their common for people with addictions to old patterns, their entire outlook on get punished by them,â€? Lepine said. life could be changed,â€? Dr. Corby “People might not even realize they said. “If we envision in our minds have an addiction, but their friends new positive possibilities, we can not tend to get kind of freaked out. This only get excited about those potential kind of thing happens way more often outcomes, but we can actually increase than people think it does.â€? our brain’s likelihood that the brain Although every addiction is different ‘muscle’ will train and grow. It all and carries separate consequences, starts with a choice – either clients can Dr. Elizabeth Corby, a senior staff revert to old responses that keep them

“

If we envision in our minds new positive possibilities, we can not only get excited about those potential outcomes, but we can actually increase our brain’s likelihood that the brain ‘muscle’ will train and grow.

The faces of

ADDICTION

“My Strange Addiction,� which airs on TLC, is a show that highlights people who have bizarre obsessions and showcases their journey toward overcoming their addiction.

Dr. Elizabeth Corby, senior staff psychologist

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locked in their physical pain, or they can give a good mental workout to new neuroconnections with new thoughts, behavior patterns and rewards.â€? For some, the possibility of defeating an addiction is fascinating. “Watching shows like ‘My Strange Addiction’ is so interesting because you can follow a person’s journey,â€? O’Bezil said. “It’s cool to see their problems and then see them start to overcome that. It’s motivational to ZDWFK SHRSOH WDNH WKH ÂżUVW VWHSV WRZDUG overcoming their addiction.â€? O’Bezil said the greatest lesson she has learned from viewing obsessions in those around her is to understand when it is time to get help. Âł'RQÂśW ÂżQG RWKHU WKLQJV WR Âż[ \RXU problems,â€? O’Bezil said. “They really won’t do anything for you other than make the problem worse. It might feel like they’re helping you, but in the HQG WKH SUREOHP LV QHYHU UHDOO\ Âż[HG *R ÂżQG KHOS EHIRUH \RX ÂżQG \RXUVHOI doing something you might regret.â€?

Kesha, who was featured on the show, is addicted to eating toilet paper.

Josh, who was also featured on the show, is addicted to eating glass.

Davecat is addicted to his wife - a mannequin he dresses and believes loves him back. Photos Courtesy of Jim Martino

Students prepare for German Misconceptions surround Hinduism day competitions Ben Simko Staff Writer

Statue of Shiva, a Hindu God in Parmarth Niketan Ghat in Laxman Jhula, Rishikesh. Photo Courtesy of Jarmo Tuisk

Statue of Ganesha, a Hindu God. Photo courtesy of Manil Gupta

Many religions are surrounded by misconceptions. Whether it’s Mormons being accused of polygamy or Muslims being accused of terrorism, some just don’t see a religion for what it is. Freshman Krishna Ramesh feels that his religion, Hinduism, the world’s third largest religion, is misunderstood. “Everyone seems to think Hindus live on a diet of curry,â€? Ramesh said. “There are fewer restrictions than everyone thinks there are. The biggest things that separate us from more mainstream religions here is that we believe in many different types of Gods.â€? As Ramesh says, Hinduism is largely monotheistic. Most Hindus believe in one God with 336 million forms, although not all do. Hindus also believe strongly in the ideas of Karma, translated as “the moral laws of cause and effect,â€? as well as reincarnation. “We Hindus are a peace-loving folk,â€? sophomore Rahul Vyas said. “Hinduism is one of the oldest religions in the world, and deserves to be appreciated. A lot of people seem to think all we do is worship FRZV EXW WKDW LV GHÂżQLWHO\ QRW WKH case.â€? Sophomore Janki Vaghasia mostly agrees with Vyas. “We’re largely vegetarian, don’t believe in violence, and don’t kill animals,â€? Vaghasia said. Hindus practice ahimsa, or nonviolence, and are taught to respect all living things. Cows in particular are revered in Hindu society. In India, cow slaughter is largely banned, and the majority of Hindus are completely vegetarian. Hinduism somehow manages to be a well-known religion and yet remains misunderstood by many. There are lots of famous Hindus, from the more obvious Gandhi to J.D. Salinger. Although Hinduism is often misrepresented, the religion is meant to be one of beauty and peace.

Every Monday after school, students meet to learn more about the German culture and language. The German Club gives students the opportunity to experience these things in more depth than they could from just taking the class. “I think the German Club is a great place to learn, speak and just enjoy the German culture,� senior Club President Mark Rust said. The club is primarily based on the German language, and activities in the club can vary from simple German conversation to all-out German parties and even state-wide competitions. “In German Club, sometimes we participate in sports activities against other language Clubs, Spanish and French,� Rust said. “We play games including scavenger hunts within the school, all in German of course. I think the most fun things we do are the parties. Whether it is the German

Oktoberfest, Christmas, or end of the year parties, we always have amazing food and a great atmosphere to feel comfortable and have a good time.� The parties and games are great ways to learn more about the German language and culture, but one of the most exciting events is the annual “German Day� at University of Michigan in Ann Arbor. German enthusiasts from all over Michigan come to Ann Arbor every year for this colossal event. “Going to German day last year was awesome,� sophomore Tilly Behrman said. “We had the opportunity to go to Ann Arbor and compete against other German students in a fun-based atmosphere. We compete in any number of areas ranging from cooking German dishes to conversational German speaking. There is a different theme every year, and this year’s theme is sports.� Winners of these competitions can receive prizes such as German posters, German calendars and other German-

related items. The competitions range from German movies/skits to artwork, photography and more. The contests are friendly and more about having a good time than winning. “One of my favorite things about teaching German is being able to help kids understand the language and really interact with them,� German teacher Ms. Nancy Hanson said. “It gives me a chance to prepare them for the excitement of German Day.� The German culture may have many differences compared to the American culture, but there can be just as many similarities as well. One way that students at RHS are able to learn more about Germany is through foreign exchange students. “During spring break I am hosting two German students, Nastja and Johanna to come stay for four weeks,� Behrman said. “They get the chance to go to an American school, learn slang, and experience our culture, and the summer, I’m going off to Germany to get a taste of the German life.�

German teacher Ms. Nancy Hanson, sophomores Michaela DeRubeis and Erin Flowers and seniors Marty Randall and Mark Rust get ready to act out a German skit in preperation for German Day. Photo by Caitlyn McGoldrick

Entertainment

Talon the

March 2011

5 Photos Courtesy of Perry Marco

I am number Despite its confusing start and PHDQLQJOHVV ¿JKW VFHQHV ¾, $P Number Four’ is composed of a talented cast and a catchy concept

Though John Smith (Alex Pettyfer) does his best to seem normal, he is anything but an ordinary teenager. Concealing his true identity

Sarah (Dianna Agron). This love interest provides a QHFHVVDU\ EUHDN IURP WKH GUDPDWLF ÂżJKWLQJ WKDW FRQVXPHV WKH PDMRULW\ RI WKLV ÂżOP Just like most movie adaptations, it doesn’t exactly meet the standard set by the book. However, that’s not to say that the movie wasn’t good because as a whole, the movie was quite by moving from town to town with his guardian chased down and murdered, at the time it is impressive. If one looks at the movie as Henri (Timothy Olyphant), Smith spends his simply confusing. If one can muddle through MXVW D ÂżOP WKHQ LWÂśV JRRG ,WÂśV RQO\ RQFH WKH life hiding from the enemies sent from his home the beginning, the clarity and quality of the movie is compared to the book that it appears planet to destroy him. Three out of the nine movie increases as it goes along. slightly lackluster. Following the trend of the beginning, the remaining members of his kind have been killed 'HVSLWH WKH PRRG VHW E\ WKH ÂżUVW IHZ movie is very action-packed. There are numerous minutes,“I Am Number Fourâ€? is more than just DQG KH LV ÂżWWLQJ WKH WLWOH QXPEHU IRXU The beginning of the movie is extremely hard ÂżJKW VFHQHV WKURXJKRXW WKH ÂżOP DOPRVW WR D VHULHV RI ÂżJKW VFHQHV WKURZQ WRJHWKHU ZLWK D to follow, especially if one has not read the book. the point of being overwhelming. This is to be little romance and comedy on the side. With an Nothing is clearly explained and it seems like expected to some degree since it is an action/ attention-grabbing concept and a young, talented WKH ÂżOP FRQVLVWV RI VHYHUDO PHDQLQJOHVV ÂżJKW VFL Âż ÂżOP DQG WKH ÂżJKW VFHQHV DUH ZHOO H[HFXWHG cast, it will be interesting to see how the rest of scenes involving glowing body parts and neat with phenomenal special effects. this series translates from book to movie. “I Am Number Fourâ€? also has a romantic special effects, combined with a bizarre scene in      which Smith’s legs begin to light up. Though it is aspect to it. Upon moving to a small town in eventually revealed that number three was being 2KLR 6PLWK IDOOV LQ ORYH IRU WKH ÂżUVW WLPH ZLWK

Decemberists’ Radiohead’s ‘The King of album average Limbs’ is just ordinary

Decemberists perform at the House of Blues on January 28th, 2011. Photo Courtesy of Michael Basu.

Ben Simko Staff Writer

Throughout pop music’s development, many bands have used instruments uncharacteristic of their respective genres in order to create more interesting, innovative music. The Beach Boys’ classic “Pet Soundsâ€? featured a plethora of instruments rarely used in pop, such as the Theremin, bicycle bells, and dog whistles. The Beatles’ “Revolverâ€? incorporated the sitar, a stringed instrument from India. Although the Decemberists are certainly not trailblazers like the Beach Boys or Beatles, they incorporate a similar sort of instrumental variance in their music, using organs and accordions to give their music an old-timey feel. On “The King Is Dead,â€? the band takes a step away from the sound that gave them fame in order to try a hand at a more folk-based sound. From the second “The King Is Deadâ€? begins, this becomes reasonably clear. The album kicks off with a Bob Dylanesque harmonica line on “Don’t Carry It All.â€? The harmonica fares well on this album, and is particularly impressive on “Calamity Song.â€? That being said, not all of the folky elements work well. The string accompaniment RQ Âł$OO $ULVH´ LV KRUULÂżF DQG makes the song sound like the

background music for a square dance. One cannot fathom a garden-variety Decemberists fan getting particularly into this song. “This Is Why We Fightâ€? is another blunder, being entirely too long with not nearly enough going on. However, a listener going into this album expecting the general Decemberists fare will not be disappointed. Much of “The King Is Deadâ€? sounds quite a lot like the other albums. “June Hymnâ€? sounds like a watered-down version of “Red Right Ankle,â€? one of the band’s indisputably great songs. “January Hymnâ€? and “Don’t Carry It Allâ€? both sound like songs from nearly any other Decemberists album, except the instrumentation differs ever-soslightly. The only way this album is different from the rest is the instruments. The songs are about the same quality. This album is an attempt to deviate from the “more of the sameâ€? but ends up being just that. “The King Is Deadâ€? is no “The Queen Is Deadâ€? but it remains an enjoyable listen for fans. Those who want to try to get into the Decemberists should lean more towards “Castaways and Cutouts,â€? their best album hands-down. Although it will not be an albumof-the-year candidate, “The King Is Deadâ€? is worth a listen. Â

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Someone in the audience makes “rock on� symbol while Radiohead performs. Photo by Radioedit3

and low-key hour of murkiness. At times, such as “Codex,â€? “Give Up the Ghost,â€? and “Separator,â€? as well as the brilliant falsetto in “Lotus Flower,â€? lead singer Thom Yorke’s croon seems to rise above the offbeat madness and soar. Other times, however, it sounds juvenile and forced. To make sense of this off-kilter smorgasbord of electronic bleeps and African drum lines, it is imperative to GLYLGH WKH DOEXP LQWR WZR 7KH ÂżUVW It’s their most elusive album yet, half begins with the opener “Bloom,â€? DQG WKH KDUGHVW WR GHÂżQH $IWHU WKH ÂżUVW and ends with “Feral.â€? This section listen, it sounds as if Radiohead has sounds like a crack addict got a hold sputtered out and been consumed by of a drum machine and started pressing their own nature-loving, reverberated buttons in a blind rage. While song creepiness. After the second and third layout experimentation has been listen, however, it becomes easier to Radiohead’s forte since the days of GHFRGH WKH UHJJDH LQĂ€XHQFHG RII “Kid A,â€? this newest development was kilter and oddly funky mellowness that a letdown. While ‘Bloom’ was actually could only come from Radiohead. quite good, the rest of ‘Side A,’ if Like all Radiohead records, “The you will, was obtuse and ineffective. King of Limbsâ€? gets better with time. Lyrically, “Morning Mr. Magpieâ€? was Even at its climax, however, it doesn’t genius. Musically, however, it lacked meet the bar set by earlier Radiohead originality. “Feralâ€? sounded like albums. Granted, it is interesting and Radiohead gone dubstep, and the effect has high points, but it is inconsistent. was nauseating. In contrast, “Side B,â€? It does not have the shouty, alt-rock made up for what began as one of the arena anthems of previous albums worst Radiohead albums since “Pablo such as “The Bends,â€? or the sublime Honey.â€? space rock of “Kid A.â€? It lacks the popKing of Limbs ended far better accessibility of “In Rainbowsâ€?, and the WKDQ LW EHJDQ 7KH ÂżQDO IRXU VRQJV DUH political propaganda found in “Hail to classic Radiohead- but with a twist. the Thief.â€? It’s something different. “Lotus Flowerâ€? began with an ambient For Radiohead fans, it’s an interesting bass line that hinted at earlier singles new addition to the band’s nearly 20- such as “All I Need.â€? Later in the same year career. For the casual listener, song, Yorke’s brilliant falsetto croon however, it is a somewhat somber pierced like a dagger coated in sugar.

Radiohead continues their nearly two decade career with an album that’s not great, but worth a listen for fans

Thom Yorke sings. Photo by alterna2

“Codexâ€? reminded the listener of <RUNHÂśV ÂżHQGLVK LQWHQVLW\ RQ WKH SLDQR that has been unmatched and relatively untouched since the infamous “Pyramid Song.â€? The haunting repetition found in “Give Up the Ghostâ€? is a solid addition and a pungently mellow and airy track. The album concludes with the surprisingly buoyant “Separatorâ€?DQG ÂżQLVKHV RQ DQ XQFKDUDFWHULVWLFDOO\ positive note. If nothing else, “The King of Limbsâ€? points towards the future. It points to a drop in guitar-centered, standard rock band albums and to an increase in electronica and grime dubstep. Most importantly, it points to a future of continued music making and innovation by a band matched only in longevity and originality by such creative geniuses as Pink Floyd. With another solid album under their belt, the future belongs to Radiohead. Â

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6 Staff Editorial:

Opinion

Talon the

March 2011

Revolutions repeat themselves

The Talon Editor in Chief Max Kleiner News Editor Nate Barton Feature Editor Emily Hayward Lifestyles Editor Melanie Sweet Entertainment Editor Katie Ziraldo

Egyptian revolution 2011. Photo Courtesy Essam Sharaf

Opinion Editor Amy Mackens Sports Editor Katie Krako Website Editor Aaron Kuhn Website Designer Justin Murphy

The lion of Egyptian revolution. Photo Courtesy of Kodak Agfa

With revolutions unfolding in the Middle East today, it is hard to ignore the impact of past rebellions After watching the Egyptian revolution and the following outbreaks, it is fantastic to see what has been accomplished and what is still being done in the name of people’s freedoms. However, one of the most amazing things to watch is how similar it was to revolutions of the past. With the people upholding concepts of freedom and equality, their leaders hanging on to the last threads of control and the chain reaction created in the Middle East and Africa, it appears that modern revolutions are mirroring those that took place centuries ago. It is easy to see continuities between the revolutions beginning in the late 16th century and those happening today. First and foremost, the people, who were largely oppressed by their governments, rose against their leaders. In America it was a distant imperial power, France had a controlling monarchy and in Egypt, the case was an oppressive president. All faced considerable amounts of opposition from those in power, and all were ¿JKWLQJ IRU VLPLODU LGHDOV 7KRXJK WKH ¿QH GHWDLOV GLIIHU WKH RSSUHVVHG ZHUH JHQHUDOO\ ¿JKWLQJ IRU IUHHGRP DQG WKHLU ULJKWV DV FLWL]HQV 7KLV LV DQ ideal that has been present from the American Revolution centuries ago to today’s revolutions in the Middle East and Africa. Another example is how eerily similar leaders have acted in revolutions now and in the past. 7KHLU EHKDYLRU SUH UHYROXWLRQ KDV always been the same: oppressive and

attempting to be in constant control. And after the tipping point, there are once again continuities. Leaders in all the revolutions made attempts to cling to power and made a point to keep the upper hand and maintain a sense RI GRPLQDQFH 7KH UHDVRQLQJV EHKLQG HDFK OHDGHUœV ¿JKW IRU SRZHU GLIIHU EXW the actions seem to remain constant throughout history. How these uprisings have played RXW DOVR EULQJV LQ D VHQVH RI GpMj vu. By the time that the American Revolution was successfully fought, its ideals had found their way back to Europe. It took root particularly in France, and with the success of the French Republic came outbreaks in Haiti and a revolution throughout Latin America. In short, it was all a chain reaction. Revolutionary history has repeated itself today in the Middle (DVW DQG $IULFD 7KH GRPLQR HIIHFW began with the Egyptian revolution and led to various degrees of uprising LQ 7XQLVLD %DKUDLQ <HPHQ /LE\D and Kuwait. Despite these similarities, there has been a radical change in the way UHYROXWLRQV DUH VSUHDG 7KH LQWHUQHW VSHFL¿FDOO\ )DFHERRN KDV SOD\HG D KXJH UROH LQ WKH XSULVLQJV 7KH LQWHUQHW was temporarily shut down by the government, causing outrage among the common people. However, the internet is just another tool in the revolution. 7KHUH LV DEVROXWHO\ QR GHQ\LQJ WKDW WKH LQWHUQHWœV VSHHG IDFLOLWDWHG IDVW SDFHG revolutions, but in terms of it being shut down, it is just another grievance of the people, and these grievances are details that are bound to change with WKH WLPH 7KH )UHQFK KDG WKH OXGLFURXV SULFH RI ÀRXU RQ WRS RI WKH LJQRUDQFH of the monarch, the Americans had the tax levies, and the Haitians had mistreatment from their white masters. 7KHUH ZLOO DOZD\V EH FRPSODLQWV IURP

A sign, reading “enough,� is held up by Egyptian protestors. Photo Courtesy of Essam Sharaf

“

There are a lot of parallels between this revolution and past revolutions in this area.

Nate Barton, junior

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People keep coming up with the same concepts and there are only so many solutions for a problem.

Caitlyn McGoldrick, junior

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History does repeat itself, that’s why there was World War 1 and World War 2.

Ben Simko, sophomore

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those being oppressed, it is just a matter RI WKH ZKHQ DQG ZKHUH 7KH LQWHUQHW was “the last straw� for Egyptians, just as many other problems have been “the last straw� for many other revolutionaries. As a whole, it seems to be true that history repeats itself. In revolutions over time, people have continued to value their freedom and equality,

“

History doesn’t repeat itself exacly, but common themes do occur.

Justin Murphy, senior

�

and their leaders have continued to maintain their positions of control. 7KHUH KDYH DOVR EHHQ PXOWLSOH FKDLQ reactions in revolutions along with the constant of grievances that propel each domino forward. With these examples, it is clear to see that the revolutions of the late 1700’s closely resemble those that are taking place in our world today.

Bidding public schools farewell ,WÂśV ÂżQDOO\ FRPLQJ WR DQ HQG 0\ VHQWHQFH WKDW LV )URP WKH ÂżUVW WLPH I scabbed a knee in the playground at University Hills Elementary School to my most recent smelling of the hanging stench of cigarette smoke WKDW ÂłP\VWHULRXVO\´ ÂżQGV LWVHOI LQ WKH freshman hallway, I regret nothing. Well, almost nothing. So I’m going to take this time to voice my sincerest apologies and otherwise. Starting at the beginning, I’m going to apologize to my Kindergarten teacher, Ms. Neitzel. I’m sorry, Ms. Neitzel, for being so gosh darn annoying. All I ever wanted to do was color. I cared not for some menial alphabet, or some XVHOHVV QXPEHUV 7KH RQO\ WKLQJ WKDW I was concerned with was what shade of green the cat in my coloring book would be. Don’t get me wrong, I ÂłSDVVHG´ .LQGHUJDUWHQ ZLWK Ă€\LQJ colors might I add, however I did so indignantly. I learned my alphabet, but QRW EHIRUH , SLWFKHG D ÂżW , FRXQWHG WR 100 by the end of the year, but if asked

to do so before my snack, some tears and pouting would ensue. So for my behavior, Ms. Neitzel, I apologize. 6HFRQGO\ WR WKH :HVW 7UDFN DQG Heavyweight football teams, I offer you this confession: I hate sports. Strenuous physical activity, to me, is akin to tear gas. Because of this stance, I may not have invested myself fully into your required duties. Of course, this confession can’t have come as a surprise. Constantly absent, I was about as important to each of you as clothing is to an imaginary friend. I’m almost certain your coaches wouldn’t be able to recall my name if they were paid to do so. However, my time in your presence has taught me to not actively seek involvement in something I don’t take interest in, so I thank you for that. Lastly, to High School, I present my most pointed, sincerest, and fondest apologies. For three and a half years, I harbored such rage towards you. And you did nothing but teach me, provide me with an activity to occupy my days, a warm meal, and a roof to shelter my head which houses my precious noodle. I’m deeply sorry for calling you “childishâ€? and “a tragic ZDVWH RI WLPH ´ <RX DUHQÂśW DQ\ RI WKRVH things. In fact, you’ve not only taught

Staff Writers Carolyn Berwick Austin Bowerman Steven McConnell Caitlyn McGoldrick Brian Palmer Ben Simko Adviser Mrs. Julia Satterthwaite

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.

Letters The Talon accepts letters to the editor from all concerned parties. The Talon reserves the right to screen and/or edit any and all letters for inappropriate content and length. All letters must be signed. Requests to remain anonymous will be considered by the editorial board. Mailing address: The Talon 180 S. Livernois Rd. Rochester Hills, MI 48307 E-mail: jsatterthwaite@rochester.k12. mi.us Graphic by Max Kleiner

me the appropriate situations to deem ironic, but also how to forge lasting friendships with my fellow scholars. For this, I am greatly indebted to you. Quite cathartic, wouldn’t you say? In all seriousness, though, my time in public schools has provided me with HQRXJK WLPH WR ¿QDOL]H D PDQWUD ,œYH

EHHQ ZRUNLQJ RQ VLQFH , ¿JXUHG RXW what that word meant, which is as follows: Our time not only on Earth, EXW DOVR LQ +LJK 6FKRRO LV ÀLJKW\ ,W may seem permanent, but it is not so. Make your time here mean something, do something worthwhile, but most LPSRUWDQWO\ (1-2< <2856(/)

Sports

Talon the

March 2011

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7 Baseball players condition for new season Aaron Kuhn

Website Editor

Sophomore Zhana Randolph fights to get open for the ball in the Pink Zone game against Clarkston. The Falcons lost 4624. Photo by Emily Hayward

The girls varsity basketball team huddling up before the start of a game versus Clarkston. Photo by Emily Hayward

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Additions to your high school bucket list

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Students rushing the football field after the 17-0 Homecoming game win. Photo by Aaron Kuhn

8 Sports Seniors bound for the NCAA

Talon the

March 2011

Laura Ivezaj Saginaw Valley, soccer

Along with furthering their education, these Falcons are one step closer to reaching the top of their sport. 1. Why did you choose the school you did? 2. Did you have any other choices? 3. What are you most looking forward to about playing sports in college? 4. What are your goals as a college athlete, along with being a student? 5. Anything else you want Talon readers to know?

Nick Bradley Western Michigan, baseball

1. I chose Western Michigan because I really fell in love with the coaching staff and I’m really excited about the direction their baseball program is headed. 2. My other option was to play football at Grand Valley State University, but baseball has always been my first love and playing Division 1 baseball has always been a dream of mine, so I jumped on the opportunity WMU presented. 3. I look forward to going down south at the beginning of each year and competing against some of the best competition in the country, and playing against some of my buddies that I grew up playing with. 4. I really want to go in and start right away, and at some point help Western Michigan to a Middle American Conference championship. I also want to lead by example in the classroom and maintain a solid GPA. 5. Nope.

Claire Grawburg Ferris State, volleyball

1. I chose FSU because I want to be a pharmacist and it is one of only three pharmacy schools in the state. Plus, the coaches and players are awesome. It’s going to be a really fun four years. 2. I was talking to a couple random schools, and Eastern wanted me to go on a visit there, but Ferris is just the right size for me. 3. I am looking forward to being part of a team again. I love my teammates from high school, and I can’t wait to join the Ferris volleyball family. 4. Well, hopefully during at least one of my years at Ferris, we will go to the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletics Conference. My main goal though is to get good enough grades to make it into the Pharmacy School - it is a very competitive program. 5. An extra bonus of playing a collegiate sport is that I will avoid the famous Freshman 15!

Brook Handler University of Michigan, track

1. I really like the coach and I felt comfortable around the team. I also really liked the tradition of the school: academically, athletically, and the tradition of the team in the track events that I run. 2. Yeah, I looked at quite a few schools, but by January I had it narrowed down to Michigan, Michigan State, Villanova, Illinois, Miami of Ohio, and Duke. 3. I’m really looking forward to the team, being surrounded by a lot of other girls who have the same interests and passions as I do. 4. I’d like to try and stay healthy and go to as many NCAA nationals as I can, and it would be really amazing to one day be an All American in the 1500m. I also want to keep my GPA up all through undergrad so I can get into grad school. 5. Nope Senior Brooke Handler running the next part of a rely at the Michigan State track finals. Photo Courtesy of Brook Handler

1. I chose Saginaw Valley for a few different reasons, when I went on my visit they were extremely friendly and they made it feel like a second home for me. They also had a good offer to give me. I clicked with the coaches and the players right away. They have a really good soccer program, the campus is also really nice and I think that’s what made it really stand out to me. They do my laundry, too. 2. Yeah, I had a few other choices: Detroit Mercy and George Washington. 3. I am really looking forward to the competition. I know that it is going to be good soccer and it will give me motivation to improve as a player. 4. As a college athlete I want to try to get as much playing time as a freshman so that I can and help my team win as many games as possible. Student wise, I want to maintain a good GPA and learn to manage my time between my athletics and academics. 5. High school season is coming up! Everyone better be at games.

Billy Klotz Northwood, football

1. Northwood was just the right fit for me. I loved the campus and all of the coaches. Also, it is a business school and my major is in the business department. 2. Yes, Notre Dame, Lake Erie, Robert Morris and Ferris State. 3. Just being on the field and playing the sport I love. I already miss it and have only been off the field a couple months. 4. Obviously I would love to win a DII championship, but if that is not possible I just want to enjoy playing football and get an amazing degree. 5. Go T-Wolves!

Erin Leppek University of Iowa, volleyball

1. I chose Iowa because when I took my unofficial visit I fell in love with the campus and the city. On my visit the volleyball coaches took me to a football game and my dad and I were honestly the only people in the entire city not wearing any Iowa apparel. 2. Bowling Green, Columbia, Rutgers and other division II and division III schools 3. I am really looking forward to playing in the Big Ten and the increased speed and intensity of the game. 4. One of my goals is to see playing time as a freshman, which is going to be a challenge because only one of their middles is graduating. 5. Nope.

Jylian Monahan Adrian College, golf

1. I chose to play golf at Adrian because of the program the coach is building and the atmosphere of the college. Compared to all of the other division one, two and three schools I was considering, I was most impressed with the way the school supports every sports team and students are known by their name; not a number. 2. I was considering Hope College, Cleveland State University, Valparasio University, Bowling Green State University and also Michigan State University, but not to play golf. 3. I think I look forward to the competition the most and potentially winning our conference in the future. 4. My number one goal would just be constantly improving as an athlete and learn from my mistakes. As a student, I want to maintain a high GPA and receive my Masters degree in athletic training through Adrain College’s five year program. 5. I’m just ready and excited for college as a student and as an athlete.

Jessica Nieman University of South Dakota, soccer

1. When I did my official visit to USD I had a great time. The team was really nice and a lot of fun. The coaches were really nice, too. What made it stand out was the fact that everyone was so welcoming and I felt like I fit in with the team. 2. Yes, Central Michigan University and Hope College. 3. The thing I look forward to the most is becoming a better player and playing at a higher level. Also, meeting many knew people and experiencing life in a much different state than Michigan. 4. My goals as a college student and athlete are to get good grades and to better myself as an athlete. 5. Even though things may get tough at times, keep working because it all pays off in the end.

Sara Sikorski Ferris State, soccer

1. I want to study Pharmacy so I had already planned on going to Ferris. I love it up there, and being able to play soccer there is just another bonus to going to Ferris. 2. Not really, I was pretty set on going to Ferris the whole time. Before I got the chance to play soccer, I was trying to pursue volleyball at Ferris. When that didn’t work out I was so happy soccer did. 3. I am mainly just excited that my soccer career won’t just end right after high school. I can’t wait for games on the road where we will just be able to hangout all the time as a team. 4. I am hoping that like high school, participating in sports will help me manage my time well. I think being on the soccer team will keep me focused on the real reasons why I went to college. 5. Nope.

Nate Duff Adrian College, lacrosse

1. I picked Adrian because they recruited me, and it was a good fit for me skill wise because I won’t start right away, but if I work hard I will get my starting spot. 2. I got recruited by a few schools, but the other schools I actually considered were Limestone College, SC, Manhattan College, NY, and Hanover, IN. 3. I really look forward to just getting to play with some really difficult competition, and challenging myself. 4. My goal as an athlete is to work as hard as I can, and get the starting goalie position. My goal as a student is to have a better GPA than I had in high school, and hopefully be in the top 25% of my class. 5. I’d like to thank my teammates, because without them I would never have had the honor of playing at this level. Be at our first game at Rochester High, Saturday March 26th at 1:30 when we play Okemos.

Senior Nate Duff while touring Adrian College. Photo Courtesy of Nate Duff

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inside this issue: Best-selling vinyl and record stats pgs 2&3 Mr. Rob Byrd plays at the Fillmore pg 4

The Hatchling March 2011

Photo Courtesy of crabchick

MARCH 22, 2011 VOLUME 2 ISSUE 7 ROCHESTER HIGH SCHOOL

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The Hatchling March 2011

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Nate Barton News Editor Converse, leggings and vinyl- oh my! The world has gone retro in the past few years. Despite the fact that the Internet makes listening to music easier every day, many are turning to their local record stores for what is becoming a truly unexpected turn. Junior Jameson Schryer is among many that believe vinyl recording is not so much a blast from the past as it is a fresh n e w

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way to listen to music. “Vinyl records aren’t only limited to indie and oldies,” Schryer said. “You can get a lot of different music. Everything from Biggie Smalls to Weezer.” Although it’s not the most convenient medium, according to Under the Radar magazine, vinyl sales have increased 300 percent in the past few years. Schryer explains why. “Vinyl is appealing for many reasons,” Schryer said. “I’d say for me, it’s the sound quality, but they are also very collectible. It’s just cool to have your favorite albums on vinyl.” Todd Fundaro is the owner of Flipside Records in Clawson. He states that there has in fact been a substantial increase in vinyl sales in the past three years, and that this has helped the store maintain its 28-year heritage of selling music in today’s world. “Vinyl buyers range from ages 14 to 75 with the majority of purchasers being of college age and i n

ing

their forties,” Fundaro said. “ Music from the 60s and 70s is in high demand as well as new stuff from bands like Radiohead and The White Stripes.” Whether it’s nostalgia or actual sound quality, vinyl’s renaissance is quickly becoming a distinct permutation in the music scene. “Vinyl records aren’t very convenient and can break easily, but I prefer them over any other way to listen to music,” Schryer said. “They have a much better sound quality FRPSDUHG WR &'¶V RU PS ¿OHV $QG WKH\ DUH just really nice to have.” )XQGDUR VKDUHV 6FKU\HU¶V DI¿QLW\ IRU YLQ\O For him, however, vinyl records are both an art and a science. “For me vinyl is a better format for at least a couple of reasons,” Fundaro said. “Firstly, it sounds better. Not to get too technical, sound is a wave and can’t be reproduced accurately digitally. Secondly, it’s the packaging. Album covers are pieces of art and I hate that for CDs. Also, if there is a lyric sheet enclosed I need a magnifying glass to read it.” With mp3’s dropping in value faster than Charlie Sheen’s salary, vinyl records are becoming a viable economic force. The question is: how long will it last? “As long as people keep buying [records], there are always going to be record stores, and bands releasing albums on vinyl,” Schryer said. “With this big increase in their availability, LW¶V EHHQ HDVLHU WR ¿QG ZKDW , VSHFL¿FDOO\ want.” Groovy.

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The Hatchling

radiohead

animal collective

Formed in 1985, Radiohead includes Thom Yorke, Johnny Greenwood, Ed O’Brien, Colin Greenwood, and Phil Selway.

Photo Courtesy of therealmusicians.com

vinyl-selling artists of

2009

1. Radiohead – 45,700 2. The Beatles – 38,800 3. Michael Jackson – 30,400 4. Metallica – 30,200 5. Wilco – 29,600

6. Bob Dylan – 24,500 7. Animal Collective – 20,600 8. Pearl Jam – 19,900 9. Bon Iver – 17,100 10. Iron & Wine – 16,600

Photo Courtesy of plainviewne.com

Photo Courtesy of stereogum.com

Photo Courtesy of wilma.com

metallica

wilco Formed in 1994, the current band members include Jeff Tweedy, John Stirratt, Nels Cline, Glenn Kotche, Pat Sansone and Mikael Jorgensen.

l

Formed in 2000, Animal Collective is made up of Avey Tare, Panda Bear, Deakin and Geologist.

Photo Courtesy of thequietus.com

top

ny

March 2011

iron & wine

Formed in 1981, the current line-up of the seminal thrashmetal band include James Hetfield, Lars Ulrich, Kirk Hammett, and Robert Trujillo.

Samuel Beam has been the leader of alternative-folk-rock band Iron & Wine since 2002.

by the NUMBERS 250,000 vinyl

albums are in stock for amazon.co.uk to meet the growing demand.

According to the Recording Industry Association of America, shipments of CDs

Rollingstone.com reported that the number of records sold last year

dropped more than

jumped to

17 percent since the rise of vinyl.

1.88 million from 988,000 in 2007.

4

The Hatchling March 2011

On March 18, radio station 89X hosted their 2nd annual “Dave and Chuck the Freak’s Friday Bitches Ball,” featuring a concert by Sum 41. Opening the show was The Underdog, a local band that includes math teacher Mr. Rob Byrd on drums. “We did the 89X New Year’s Eve bash for 2009-2010,” Mr. Byrd said. “They liked our work and called last year to play an event with Switchfoot and liked us so they called again for this year.” Though they open for pop/punk bands like Sum 41, Mr. Byrd says he considers the band to be more in the pop/rock genre. “We’re a cover band that does mostly pop/rock stuff from the 90’s and 2000’s,” Mr. Byrd said. “So we do Kings of Leon, Pearl Jam, The Killers, MGMT, Prince that kind of stuff.” Though Mr. Byrd is now an essential part of The Underdog, he was not one of

the founding members. “The band has been together for seven years,” Mr. Byrd said. “I joined three years ago when the original drummer got sick. I joined to help keep it going. I play drums, and I’m actually The Underdog performs rock song coversfor their audience. Photo courtesy of the only one Julia Ridgway Mr. Byrd said he feels fortunate to have in the band had the opportunity to play at a venue like who doesn’t sing.” Junior Maria Lepore said she’s proud the Fillmore. We played last year at the same place,” of her math teacher. “I’m really happy that he got this Mr. Byrd said. “It’s just crazy, if you’d opportunity,” Lepore said. “It’s pretty WROG PH ¿YH \HDUV DJR WKDW ,¶G SOD\ WKHUH multiple times, let alone once!” awesome and he seemed really excited.”

5 x 5:

Five lovely students answer five questions for your enjoyment.

1. Who is your favorite artist?

Senior Chris Saber

Junior Ruth Renaud

Sophomore Jenny Goethals

Kid Cudi, he expresses things no one else can

Mumford and Sons, they bring back old chill wave

Taylor Swift, she’s awesome

Junior Parris Carey The Script, They make songs I relate to

Freshman Mackenzie Van Vleck Taylor Swift, she writes her own songs

2. What is your favorite song?

Pursuit of Happiness- Kid Cudi

The CaveMumford and sons

EnchantedTaylor Swift

Nothing- The Script

BlackbirdThe Beatles

3. What is your opinion of Justin Bieber?

He is not on the same level as Kid Cudi

I wish he’d hit puberty already

He’s awesome

He’s a wannabe Justin Timberlake

He’s smoking hot

4. If you were a rapper, what would your nickname be?

Scott Mes Cudi

Lil’ Ruth

Jenny-G

Pea Autty

McDizzy

5. What is the most annoying song you have ever heard?

Friday- Rebecca Black

Baby- Justin Bieber

I Whip My Hair- Willow Smith

DJ turn it up- Kim Kardashian

Baby- Justin Bieber

Q&A

The Underdog opens for Sum 41

Mr. Rob Byrd, math teacher Q: What is your favorite type of music? A: Hard rock and metal mostly, but I’ll listen to a buch of stuff. Q: What was the first album you bought? A: Run DMC- Raising Hell and Van HalenWomen and Children First Q: What is your favorite music to perform? A: Anyting that has a crowd happy. Q: What is your favorite part about performing? A: Seeing people enjoy the music. You see people in the crowd bobbing their heads or dancing a bit, and that’s awesome. It’s all about the feedback. Q: How did you prepare for your performance at the Fillmore? A: We took time to prep the setlist and we’ve been practising to get everything set. Q: What’s next for The Underdog? A: We’re playing for 89X for the tigers’ opening day. I’m super excited to be downtown and be able to see opening day. It’s always cool to do a fun show. Q: Do you have any advice for people who want to form a band? A: It’s cool to jam with friends who like music. We don’t always have to have the same personality and everything, but when we all love music it works. Q: Why did you form a band? A: Play with as many people possible. Don’t shut yourself out or be frustrated when things aren’t working. Just keep moving on to the next thing. Q: If you were to tell one band to stop playing forever, which band would it be and why? A: The Wallflowers. I’m not often a music snob, but I’m just not a Jacob Dillon fan.

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