April issue 2016

ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY: Sophomore Julia Couch maintains the plants in the greenhouse and hopes to inspire others to take care of the planet. In addition, the Green Club continues to make a difference with recycling and other ecofriendly initiatives. Read more on pages 10-11

THE

TALON

ROCHESTER HILLS, MI // APRIL 2016 // VOL. 78 ISSUE 6

PAGE 2 // NEWS

THE TALON // APRIL 2016

NEWS BRIEFS 3.

4.

Photo Courtesy of Mrs. Kelley Cusmano

Photo by Ms. Stefanie Shooks

Photo Courtesy of Creative Commons

1. RHS

2. RCS

3. Michigan

4. USA

5. World

From April 14-16, members of the Rochester HOSA team went to Traverse City to compete at the State Conference.

Students participated in different categories related to medicine.

Junior ChrisMaria Joseph enjoyed the experience.

“States was great,” Joseph said. “Members of the Rochester team got to meet people with the same goals and passions for medicine.”

Many Rochester students placed in the competition.

Freshmen Ishi Shukla and Nidhi Tigadi received 7th place in Health Career Display. Juniors Hiba Abbas, Dipra Debnath, David Kim, and Ninotchka Valdez received 4th place in HOSA Bowl. Junior David Kim received 4th place in Medical Spelling. Joseph believes Rochester’s placement was impressive considering that all the preparation was before or after school.

As Co-President of the Rochester HOSA chapter, Joseph has high expectations for next year.

“Another goal is to be able to send more of our members to nationals,” Joseph said. “This year we aren’t taking a team trip to nationals but next year we hope to do so.”

By Zahra Ahmed

Beginning in the 201617 school year, Rochester Community Schools plans to switch from the student assessment warehouse and system provided by Pearson Inform. Along with many other Oakland County districts, RCS has entered an agreement with Illuminate and will be using their product called “DnA.” “We realize that this represents a change from the past,” curriculum director Mrs. Carrie Lawler said in an email.

“Illuminate has much more capability and is much more user-friendly,.”

Not only is Illuminate more user friendly, but is also is able to do some things that Pearson can’t.

“It is also known that several scanners for Pearson are no longer working or in need of some repair,” Mrs. Lawler said.

Overall, the RCS Curriculum Department believes that the change is for the better.

“We view the implementation of Illuminate DnA as a very positive change for our students and staff.,” Mrs. Lawler said.

“We will keep you updated throughout the transition.”

From April 16-18, members of high school student councils and student governments gathered from throughout the state of Michigan to attend a conference coordinated by MASC/MAHS. Sophomore Reagan Wegener explains the purpose of the conference.

“Stugo states is a conference where all student councils meet up to discuss leadership and give presentations on how to improve their schools,” Wegener said.

In addition to sharing ideas and interacting with other leaders, students were able to celebrate the awards RHS received.

“Mr. DeLuca won principal of the year and it was really cool,” Wegener said. “We also won the Award of Excellence, which means that our school as a whole has one of the top student councils in the state.”

Overall, Wegener found that the conference was a success, and it was beneficial to the RHS student government.

“We gained ideas for different events; it was not only a good learning experience but it was also a good bonding experience for the 21 members that went.”

April 13 was certainly not a day basketball fans will soon forget, as the Los Angeles Lakers’ Kobe Bryant played the last game of his career.

While most expected Bryant to have a modest performance at best, Bryant scored 60 points, leaving many fans like sophomore Ekumu Pefok speechless.

“I think his final game is high on his list,” Pefok said. “During this game he brought his team back and gave them the lead. He had an amazing performance while everyone was watching him specifically.”

Kobe’s final game was a reminder for many fans of his competitive nature.

“I admire his attitude,” Pefok said. “He is fierce and has the “it” factor that you can only see in both him and Michael Jordan.”

Fans can only speculate what the ensuing seasons will be like for the future Hall of Famer, and the Lakers may never be the same without him.

“I think the next NBA season is going to be weird,” Pefok said.

“The Lakers without Kobe will just feel awkward to watch to me.

A new icon might show up, and Steph Curry might already be that icon.”

On April 21, musical icon Prince passed away unexpectedly.

The death left millions of fans worldwide in shock.

In response to the tragedy, millions played his music and lit up skyscrapers in the color purple in memory of one of Prince’s most renowned songs, Purple Rain “My favorite song by Prince is ‘Kiss,’” junior Tziporah Tiller said. “My mom used to always play it, and she did after she found out Prince died.”

Prince fans like Tiller believe that the music he produced was one of a kind.

“He can’t be put in a box,” Tiller said. “He makes all kinds of different music that hasn’t been produced by anyone else.”

Some also believe that Prince’s talents may never be reached by anyone in the music industry again.

“I don’t think anyone will be able to get near the levels he reached,” Tiller said. “He was just so talented at everything, playing instruments the way he did. I don’t think anyone will be able to come near him.”

By Lauren Alison

By Maya Subramanian

By Hussein Murray

By Hussein Murray

PAGE 3 // FEATURE

ISLAMOPHOBIA

THE TALON // APRIL 2016

Najah Bazzy was simply driving to do some charity work during an afternoon. As she was driving, a man drove past her and disrespected her upon recognizing her headscarf.

Bazzy elaborates on the entire situation.

“I was in a Tim Hortons line to buy coffee and a lady ahead of me paid for my coffee,” Najah Bazzy, founder of the charity Zamaan International said. “20 minutes later a man spit at me while I was driving to my charity.”

Bazzy, a Muslim herself, tries to practice her religion as thoroughly as possible. In doing so, Bazzy believes that retaliation for hatred towards Muslims is the wrong way to go.

“I believe in random acts of kindness and the golden rule,” Bazzy said.

“I believe in exhibiting peace and justice as a citizen. I do a tremendous amount of interfaith work and I teach Islam whenever asked, and I run a charity organization that takes care of every walk of life.”

While many Muslims try to accurately represent the religion of Islam, junior Hiba Abbas believes that the work Muslims do is for nothing because of the media.

“Muslims are most definitely not fairly represented by the media. Muslims are only shown in the news when they are the offenders, but never when they are the victims,” Abbas said.

“For example, the Chapel Hill shooting last year where three Muslims were killed was not covered by the news until 3 days later whereas the Paris attacks were immediately trending worldwide as it happened.”

Muslims like sophomore Ammaar Fazal feel that Muslims are treated like regular citizens of the United States.

“I feel like my friends and peers treat me normally,” Fazal said. “I think that this community treats Muslims like normal people, and they don’t paint us with the same brush with ISIS and other radical Islamic groups.”

However, Fazal thinks that in communities besides Rochester Hills, Muslims experience hatred and racism.

“People in other communities might not be treated fairly,” Fazal said. “Women may be more susceptible to hatred considering that they wear the Hijab, and they are more obvious Muslims than others.”

Bazzy does believe that if students in high school are experiencing hatred, they should understand the circumstances surrounding them, and learn from the situation at hand.

“I really believe that doing something positive, whether in school, community, in the nation, this is what needs to happen,” Bazzy said. “Once people start talking, there is an opportunity to educate and learn about each other. If we don’t engage in dialogue, then someone else is writing our narrative, and it can be wrongly portrayed. The only way to counter that is through dialogue.”

Abbas understands that all walks of life need to be treated fairly, and that racism of any kind is unacceptable.

“Whatever misconception someone may have regarding any religion is one that should not be inflicted in the way they choose to treat someone else,” Abbas said. “No matter what, everyone should be treated equally; race, religion and gender should never have an impact towards someone’s right to be treated fairly. People need to respect what others may believe in their religion, otherwise they are considered ignorant.”

In regards to condemning terrorist attacks like the ones in Paris, Bazzy believes firmly that all attacks should be condemned. Not only by Muslims in attacks by radical Muslim groups.

“I think condemning terrorism, whether domestic or international; no matter who the terrorist is, regardless of race or religion is necessary,” Bazzy said. “I think it is important to condemn it because it gives a voice to the injustice. People who died innocently deserve that condemnation because of the idea that they didn’t deserve to die.”

In terms of the ideas of Islam in the media, Fazal is against the idea of constantly having to condemn terrorist attacks.

“I don’t think I should condemn the attacks if it is only people like me that are condemning them,” Fazal said. “Everyone should have to condemn attacks, regardless of who we are.”

After the attacks, Bazzy condemns every attack and wants to remind people what Islam is really about.

“I believe the beauty of Islam, the truth and justice of it, the inclusiveness of it, will ultimately trump those who are using it in such an evil and misguided way,” Bazzy said.

MUSLIMS REFLECT ON THE NEGATIVE PORTRAYAL OF THEIR RELIGION IN THE MEDIA HUSSEIN MURRAY STAFF WRITER

PAGE 4 // FEATURE

THE TALON // APRIL 2016

Parting words from colleagues Mrs. Adams

Special education teacher Mrs. Julie Goldsby helps her students with homework. Photo by Makenzie Shubnell

MRS. GOLDSBY MOVES ON

Special education teacher relocates to the West side of state BAILEY BOERMAN FEATURE EDITOR

When students entered room B127 for their learning strategies course, they were greeted by the beaming smile and warmth that radiated from special education teacher Mrs. Julie Goldsby, making it difficult for them to say goodbye when she followed her husband to the West side of the state for his job. Her last day was Thursday, March 31.

Mrs. Goldsby was sad to leave RHS as well because of the bond she shared with so many students and staff.

“I will really miss my students and coworkers,” Mrs. Goldsby said. “I can’t believe I’m saying goodbye. Outside of school, I am very close with my husband’s family, as well as our friends here and our church, Woodside Bible Church in Detroit. It has been very tough leaving all these people I care so much about.”

Mrs. Goldsby explained her return to the West side of the state, several years after living there when attending Hope College.

“My husband got a new job in Holland, and we actually moved a few weeks ago when he started work,” Mrs. Goldsby said.

“But I wanted to keep teaching here until spring break so that I could finish 3rd marking period and get everything ready for a smooth transition for the long-term substitute.”

Although the move is only across the state, Mrs. Goldsby reflects on the differences in lifestyles among the East and

stick with me. Also, I have loved watching West side. my students at sporting events and plays; it’s “On the West side of the state the pace so fun to watch them shine doing something of life is a bit slower,” Mrs. Goldsby said. they love.”

“They also have several beaches, more farms Her students reflect on the mutual bond. (depending on the area) and Grand Rapids is “She was more of a friend than a teacher,” a fun growing city.” sophomore David Rizzo said. “The thing I There are many things Mrs. Goldsby will will miss most is her dancing like a weirdo on miss after she moves.

Fridays before class.”

“On the East side of the state, I think Senior Nathan Lima reflects on Mrs. the shopping is a lot better, and obviously Goldsby’s personality. our pro sports teams “She was always are awesome and much “I will really miss my very enthusiastic and closer,” Mrs. Goldsby students and coworkers, optimistic,” Lima said. said. “There are more I can’t believe I’m saying “She always had a smile nice cars driving goodbye. It has been very on her face; she was my around. Lots of fun favorite teacher because suburbs with different tough leaving all these she was always helping features and restaurants, people I care so much people.” and I love Detroit and about.”

Mrs. Goldsby has many the revitalization that hopes for the future. is happening there. I -Julie Goldsby, teacher “I hope for my am in the city quite a husband to love his new bit and have several //////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// job working a few less friends who live there, hours so that we can have so it’s exciting to see it a little more down time,” experiencing a rebirth.”

Mrs. Goldsby said. “And for myself to find After four years in the academic center, Mrs. Goldsby created a strong bond with her a job that I can grow to love as much as I do my students here at RHS, for us to find students.

“I have so many great memories from the a church that we love as much as ours in Detroit and for God to use me to help the Academic Center and just having fun with world.” my students and coworkers,” Mrs. Goldsby said. “It means a lot when students show me their grades they’ve been working so hard to improve, talk to me about their lives and just make me laugh, so these things will

“We were very sad to see Mrs. Goldsby leave our school, even though we were incredibly happy for the new and exciting things that were happening for her personally. She was a very valuable member of our team, and she will be missed.”

Mrs. Cosentino “She was a very caring and encouraging teacher in the Academic Center. She truly displayed kindness and concern for her students. I enjoyed working with her for four years, and I am excited or her and her husband’s new journey.”

Mrs. Kavalar

“I love how bubbly her personality is. She was always smiling and positive.

It was contagious. “

PAGE 7 // FEATURE

THE TALON // APRIL 2016

SENIOR PROJECT

Students present hour-long multimedia presentations a variety of sources. They have several weeks to work in class with their group.

OPINION EDITOR “We did a lot of research; it took about two to three weeks to gather sites that Dressed in a navy blue dress with a were reliable and to take out the important cream cardigan, senior Natasha Hampshire pieces of information, and put them into a is walking around her English classroom bibliography and analyze them,” Hampshire putting the last finishing touches on the said. “I just used websites and videos.” set up for her senior project. With a white Since the project serves such high tablecloth, candles, wine glasses and flowers, importance, picking group members was Hampshire and her group has created the vital in having an A+ project. perfect 1970s date night atmosphere.

“We got assigned a random kid, we didn’t “The goal of the senior multimedia know, so they didn’t work as well as everyone research project is for students to else, but otherwise it was pretty equal for the demonstrate all of the research skills they’ve most part,” senior Andrew Sare said. learned throughout the course of their The senior project weighs heavily on high school students’ grades, experience,” making it a “When I see groups nervously set up top priority of English teacher the rooms, review their note cards, Mrs. Julia their year. They talk each other up saying, ‘we’ve got are graded Satterthwaite said. this,’ and then, bam, they nail it -- it’s individually In order on their notes, truly special to witness.” to reach this annotated ultimate goal, bibliography and -Mrs. Julia Satterthwaite, students start presentation.

English and journalism teacher with picking their “It was topic about “The important to my /////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// Evolution of ” grade, because something that it is one of the they’re interested in examining in-depth. biggest projects you do as a senior so it was Senior Natasha Hampshire’s group chose important that we did all the work properly The Evolution of Dating from the 1950s and on time so we got a good grade,” through today.

Hampshire said.

“It was a suggested topic that we thought By being such an important project to would be something the whole class could students grades, there comes up and downs relate to,” Hampshire said. “The evolution throughout the process. of dating relates to me, because I have dated “Finding all the information was the most and it is not as classy as it use to be, and that longest and most boring part,” Sare said. is why it was a good idea.”

“Talking about and presenting the project Students have a lengthy process, was easy though, because it is easy to talk in that includes making their presentation front of people, and I’m good at talking in interactive, creative and interesting by using front of people.”

MARIA BROECKER

Even though it would seem that students would face the most difficulties while working on the project, there are also many frustrating parts for the teacher as well.

“I get frustrated when students don’t want to use their brains,” Mrs. Satterthwaite said. “It’s an incredibly challenging process, and students just want to snap their fingers and copy and paste and bunch of crap onto slides. That’s not what this project is about at all. Students need to read through many things to find the best sources; they need to think deeply about whether to use a summary, direct quote or paraphrase note; they need to demonstrate that they can evaluate a source’s usefulness; they need to work together with their group; and they need to patiently follow the steps, which is such a challenge for a generation of kids who are used to getting and doing things at lightning speed.”

Though the project was difficult at times, many of the seniors felt as though their projects were a success.

“I feel like mine turned out really well,” Hampshire said. “I feel like the whole class was engaged the whole time and we made it kind off more fun and interactive rather than a serious topic.”

At the end of the day, the teachers are glad to see the overall progress each group has made during the time according to how much work they put in.

“The best part of the experience is watching everything come together,” Mrs. Satterthwaite said. “When I see groups nervously set up the rooms, review their note cards, talk each other up saying, ‘we’ve got this,’ and then, bam, they nail it -- it’s truly special to witness. I’d imagine it’s somewhat like a sports team have a really great game or performance.”

Seniors (left to right) Trevor Szafran, Spencer Handley, Natasha Hampshire, Hannah Kadowaki and Donavon Hughes pose for photo after they presented the evolution of dating.

Seniors (left to right) Terry Christensen, Sarah Song, Hannah Boshnakian and Abby DeVilling pose before their Evolution of Fashion presentation.

Seniors

(left to right) Zach Wendt, Johnny Nguyen, Alex Wylie and Parth Patel pose after they presented their senior project on the Evolution of Skateboarding.

Photos by Julia Satterthwaite

PAGE 6 // FEATURE

THE TALON // APRIL 2016

Spanish students enjoy spring break Learning is enhanced through exposure to Spanish culture ZAHRA AHMED STAFF WRITER

Students view new sights in Seville, Spain during Spring Break. Photo by Zahra Kadwalwala

Sophomore Ramona Johnson finds herself walking around in a new place in the midst of a culture she has only heard about. Johnson and a number of Spanish students spent their Spring Break this year in Spain, getting a first-hand experience of the language and culture they’ve been learning about.

“We always only hear each other talk and we all have very American Spanish accents and hearing someone with an actual Spanish accent and being able to actually interact with them just helped in learning Spanish,” Johnson said. “[Spanish culture] is just something you wouldn’t understand unless you’ve been there.”

Spanish teacher Ms. Beth East believes this experience goes hand in hand with learning the language.

“I teach the language and the culture together because you can’t do one without the other,” Ms. East said. “I embody the culture of Spain and Spanish speaking countries in my curriculum throughout levels. They see [the culture] kind of come alive when they get to Spain, so [the trip] is just a continuation of the curriculum really.”

For senior Zahra Kadwalwala, it was a reassurance of her Spanish skills.

“I think that being put in a place where they don’t speak the language you’re comfortable with helps show you that you know more Spanish than you think,” Kadwalwala said.

The trip not only taught Kadwalwala about Spain but also about herself.

“I learned a lot about the culture as well as my own time management skills and ability to be independent,” Kadwalwala said.

Time management played a significant role in this trip as the Spanish schedule of business is much different than that in America.

“They start their days at around 9 a.m.; we go to school at 7:30 a.m. but for them it’s maybe 9:00 a.m.,” Johnson said. “It’s normal to be up at around the city until about 1-2 a.m.”

For the most part, the trip was the same as it had been in past years.

“It was just another successful wonderful trip,” Ms. East said. “I had the same tour guide that I’ve requested the last four tours.”

However, there was a minor difference. The plan to visit Morocco was canceled because of petty crime in the area, but students were able to visit other places in Spain instead.

“They actually went into the countryside in the south and went to an olive oil factory and saw the process and how it’s made,” Ms. East said. “They tasted the different olive oils like the extravagant freshly pressed olive oil. They loved it. It was so cool.”

Students then went to a farm and saw gardens and crops and were invited into different homes.

“The mothers prepared an authentic lunch for them with all the different flavors of andelucias so the kids loved it,” Ms. East said. “It was a really authentic experience.”

The food was a large part of the students’ experience in Spain.

“My favorite part of the trip was definitely the food because it was awesome and a major part of the culture there was the food,” Johnson said. “That was a very different experience that we wouldn’t be able to have anywhere but Spain.”

Kadwalwala agrees.

“Some of the food was interesting,” Kadwalwala said. “I had Bull’s tail and grilled squid for lunch. It was amazing.”

Ms. East noted the students’ excitement with pleasure. “[The kids] were really just happy to be there and excited to learn about the Spanish culture and see the beautiful places that we were going to,” Ms. East said. “The best part is really taking the students and having them see it for the first time.”

Johnson believes the trip went well overall.

“I thought it was an irreplaceable cultural experience,” Johnson said. “I wouldn’t trade it for anything. It was pretty fantastic.”

Although it was an enjoyable experience, this may have been the Ms. East’s last trip abroad with students.

“It’s 20 years now that I’ve been taking students abroad, and I think that was my last trip,” Ms. East said. “I’m ready to have my own spring break. I love it but I realized that after 20 years I’m a little bit tired; I don’t have the youth that I used to have.”

It may have been her last trip with students, but Ms. East plans to continue traveling.

“I looked at it as maybe my last trip taking students abroad but definitely not traveling; I’ll always travel and encourage kids to travel,” Ms. East said. “[With students] it was awesome but it’s a lot of work.”

PAGE 7 // FEATURE

THE TALON // APRIL 2016

Top left: Members of The Talon staff accept their Spartan Award for the 2015-16 school year. Top right: Makenzie Shubnell, Lauren Alison, Ed Grijalva and Hannah Chilcote prepare to hear the individual contest results in the main ballroom with nearly 2,000 high school journalists. Photos by Mrs. Julia Satterthwaite Below: Mrs. Satterthwaite poses with her sixth Spartan. Photo by Maria Broecker

The Talon wins a Spartan HUSSEIN MURRAY STAFF WRITER

Members of The Talon staff let out a shrill scream when they heard their publication’s name called as one of 13 newspaper Spartan Award winners from the Michigan Interscholastic Press Association on April 21 at the Lansing Center.

This was The Talon’s sixth Spartan in the last seven years.

“I was incredibly excited and proud when I heard The Talon’s name called as one of the Spartan winners,” journalism teacher Mrs. Julia Satterthwaite said. “We had a ton of seniors who graduated last year and this was somewhat of a rebuilding year, but we had an incredible crop of fresh talent and were able to pull it off again.”

Editor-in-chief and junior Ninotchka Valdez explains her reaction to the news.

“I’m really proud of everyone for always putting forth their best work,” Valdez said.

“I’m really grateful for the other editors for developing a good relationship with the rest of the staff writers and for really working side by side with them to make sure that we’re always putting out the best version of the stories. Winning a Spartan makes me even more enthusiastic to be a part of the Talon.”

In addition to winning an overall Spartan, The Talon staff members won 32 individual awards for writing, design, photography and digital media.

“I feel proud of my work as well as everyone else on The Talon staff,” sophomore entertainment editor Makenzie Shubnell said. “I know how hard we work

and how much we pride ourselves on the final product of the paper, so to hold this title just proves our accomplishments.”

Mrs. Satterthwaite says this year’s Spartan made her think making the MIPA Hall of Fame might be possible.

“When we won the Spartan again this year, the sixth in the last seven years, I set a new goal in my mind: to make it into the MIPA Hall of Fame,” Mrs. Satterthwaite said.

“A school must win a Spartan in nine out of 10 years, which we’re on track to do in 2020, so I’m pumped. I think we can do it. There are only 20 schools in the state in the Hall of Fame to date.”

In order to be considered for individual and overall honors, the editorial board met to select the two entries to put forth in multiple categories. The editors also selected three issues of The Talon to be sent to an out of state judge and evaluated using MIPA’s Spartan booklet.

“Picking what stories should be submitted is a difficult job because we have to consider all the criteria,” Valdez said. “We’ll have categories where we don’t really have anything we can submit, whereas there will be other categories where we have a tough time narrowing down our choices.”

After selecting the top two for each area, a small group is then tasked with uploading entries through the submittable system.

“The submission process was definitely a little stressful because this process takes place while we’re working on an issue, so it’s always a struggle to make enough time for everything,” Valdez said. “Also, the process itself is a little tedious because we have to

check and look through all the PDFs and see if the story was posted in other places.”

Senior staff writer Ed Grijalva was one of the people who had to submit stories, photos and designs.

“It was interesting looking back at everybody’s stories and seeing all the different stuff people wrote about,” Grijalva said.

As for his nerves about submitting his own work, Grijalva didn’t know what to expect.

“I wasn’t that stressed for some of my submissions because I knew I did well, but I didn’t think it could win an award,” Grijalva said. “In the end though, the feeling of finishing a page, design, photo or story is rewarding enough.”

Grijalva was one of nine staff members who attended the MIPA Spring Conference to compete in on-site contests and hear the results of the Spartan contest.

“I thought it was crazy there were so many people there,” Grijalva said. “I didn’t realize that many people cared about high school journalism.”

For Mrs. Satterthwaite, the Spring Conference is a highlight each year, but she says it’s ultimately a celebration of the kids.

“I love this group of kids; they’re truly an honor and pleasure to work with,” Mrs. Satterthwaite said. “I ask them to do difficult things every month: to develop interesting story ideas, interview strangers from multiple perspectives, take creative photos, design pretty pages, work together with a team, utilize social media and they do it and then some with a smile. That’s all I could ask for.”

PAGE 8 // FEATURE

THE TALON // APRIL 2016

D.C. TRIP 2016

History and government students visit the capitol CHRISTIAN FEND STAFF WRITER

The 2016 Rochester High D.C. trip recently took place in which, AP Government and AP U.S. History students flew out to the nation’s capitol to experience first hand what they had been learning about in the classroom. Students were given the chance to visit some of the nation’s most iconic landmarks such as the Lincoln Memorial, Washington monument, Capitol Hill, the Supreme Court, the White House and many more. AP U.S. History teacher Mr. Chad Zwolinski helped to organize the trip as he knows how important it is for students to see what they have been learning about in person.

“The size, the stature, the aura of the buildings and rooms cannot be matched,” Mr. Zwolinski said. “Seeing the Lincoln Memorial up close or standing in the red room of the White House is a feeling that books will never replicate.”

Sophomore Paige Radman agrees that being able to actually see what you have been learning about is helpful in connecting history to modern reality.

“It was really cool to put together all the information learned within the class to the physical history because it made the history seem real, rather than just facts from a

textbook,” Radman said. “It was also a nice Independence Hall and the Liberty bell.

For Vempati, this was actually the best part reward from all the work and time put into of the trip. the class.”

“My favorite part was Independence The trip was generally regarded by both Hall, this is because it is essentially one students and teachers as a huge success. of the places where this nation was built Sophomore Harshith Vempati agrees and from,” Vempati said. “To just think about goes further in saying he would go on the the history there is mind blowing.” trip again.

Also in Philadelphia students were “I feel that no time was wasted during able to enjoy some time to look around the course of the four days,” Vempati said. the city and have the “I would go on the opportunity to try trip again because to “It was really cool to put the famous Philly be able to re-live it together all the information Cheesesteak sandwich. would be awesome.” learned within the class to For Sophomore Sid As someone who the physical history because Osborn, this was a organized the trip, it made the history seem real, highlight of the trip.

Mr. Zwolinski is also rather than just facts from a “The Cheesesteak ecstatic with the large was definitely one of turnout of students, textbook.” the best things I’ve especially compared Paige Radman, 10 tasted,” Osborn said. to the previous years. /////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// “It was definitely a “This was more highlight of the trip than the last trip because it was awesome and that one was to try the food from where it was from.” advertised to all 10th and 11th graders, While nearly everyone seemed to enjoy this time only AP students were allowed,” the trip, there were still things that could Mr. Zwolinski said. “I was so happy with have been done to make the trip even the support from students, parents and better. administration.”

“If I could change anything about Students also had a chance to visit the trip, it would have to be the amount Philadelphia where they were able to see of time spent touring the museums,” various historical monuments such as

1.

1. Students experienced a guided tour at the Statuary Hall in the Capitol Building. Photo Courtesy of Ninotchka Valdez 2. Sophomores Ben Bisio, Constantine Tangalos, Harsith Vempati, Alex Lee and Christian Fend walk down the steps of the Supreme Court in Washington D.C. Photo Courtesy of Christian Fend 3. Students reminisced on the lives lost in World War II at the World War II Memorial. Photo Courtesy of Ninotchka Valdez

2.

3.

Radman said. “I really enjoyed looking at the Newseum and the Natural History Museum, and I would have liked more time to spend there.”

Junior Harrison Catlin also thinks there could have been ways to improve the trip.

However, he focuses on the tight guidelines put in place by Closeup, who ran the trip.

“I would remove the 11 p.m. curfew because we didn’t really have any time to get food if we were hungry,” Catlin said.

“If it weren’t for Mr Z.’s pretzels and Mr Vernon’s Ruffles, we may have starved.”

Surprisingly, this was not Catlin’s least favorite part of the trip. Some of the students on the flight back did not sit in their assigned seat and this did cause certain issues.

“My least favorite part of the trip was the plane ride back because our group decided to play musical chairs,” Catlin said.

“Someone stole my seat, so I had to sit next to a very angry couple that was a bit too intense about the in-flight trivia.”

However, for the most part the trip went by smoothly and most everyone who took part will look back in it with fond memories.

“Overall, the trip was a huge success and I had such a fun time,” Radman said.

“The memorials were beautiful and seeing the whole city lit up at night was beautiful.”

PAGE 9 // LIFESTYLES

THE TALON // APRIL 2016

HOMESCHOOLING VS. PUBLIC SCHOOL

Students talk about the pros and cons of their experiences TAYLOR SIMMONS STAFF WRITER

Not having to get ready in the mornings, sleeping in, convenient food, entertainment any time and being able to do ‘school’ whenever--those are the perks of being homeschooled for senior Savannah Strickland, who was homeschooled before coming to Rochester. Having experienced both homeschooling and public schooling, Savannah is able to weigh the pros and cons between the two.

“One advantage [while being homeschooled] is that there’s no failing,” Savannah said. “At least not in my homeschool education.

Instead of receiving a bad grade on a subject/test you keep doing it until you learn it. Homeschooling is also great for scheduling. If you have a job you can do your school around your work schedule. You have more control of your life and school and I feel like it prepares you for college in a way because it’s so independent.”

Savannah’s mother, Christina Strickland, was Savannah’s homeschool teacher up until seventh grade. At the start of eighth grade, Savannah decided to go back to public school. After her first experience at a public school, she made the decision to go back to being homeschooled. Savannah made another transition, and after ninth grade, she went back to public school for her sophomore year. She has been here at RHS ever since.

“Going to [public] school was a big transition,” Savannah said.

“Especially because the people are so different. Homeschoolers are a lot more sheltered, but personally I think that the people I’ve met in school are so much more open minded and inviting towards people than the people I met in the homeschool community. It was weird going into school not knowing how to open a locker or even use a scantron. I had to ask people how to use them which was kind of embarrassing because they

Photo Courtesy of Creative Commons played a part in their decision to had been doing this kind of stuff homeschool Savannah prior to forever.” enrolling at RHS. Mrs. Strickland explains how “We were already homeschooling being a homeschool teacher is not her older sister and it was working as easy as it is thought to be. While for us,” Mrs. Strickland said. “One teaching, she has to make sure that of the reasons we continued to they are learning everything that is homeschool was because of the needed for them to succeed. freedom it allowed both of my “Homeschool parents usually children to teach all explore their subjects,” Mrs. “The main reason I own interests Strickland said. came back was so I could and learn at a “There were have more opportunities pace that was times when when it comes to schoool comfortable for we worked activities.” them.” together with Sarah Hill, 10 Another other parents, organizations ///////////////////////////////////////////////// student at RHS that used to be and homeschooled professionals is sophomore to bring other Sarah Hill. This is currently Hill’s opportunities to our children. An first year being at public school. example of this is that my children “I loved homeschooling and took a dissection class through a it was a difficult decision to leave local homeschool program that it,” Hill said. “The main reason was taught by a certified teacher.

I came back was so I could have Dissection is something I did not more opportunities when it comes want to tackle at home.” to school activities. I’ve always Mrs. Strickland also spoke out been involved in musical theatre, on her family’s prior experience and I wanted to be able to do with homeschooling and how it

school musicals and take classes like choir and theatre. It was also much more difficult academically at Seton and the stress of keeping track of all my grades was getting overwhelming.”

Homeschooling can be extremely time consuming and requires a lot of responsibility on the student’s part according to Hill.

“The biggest difference [between being homeschooled and public schooled] is that as a homeschooled student, you are responsible for making your own schedule and keeping up with assignments without the help of a teacher,” Hill said. “A lot of people think that it sounds easy to decide when and how you get your work done, but it’s really very stressful. You have to be extremely responsible and independent.”

In spite of the differences between homeschooling and public schooling, Mrs. Strickland does not feel like homeschooling has significantly affected Savannah’s character.

“I do think [Savannah’s life] would be different but to definitely

say how it would have been would be purely speculative. I think Savannah’s core personality and strengths would still be the same regardless of how she experienced her education. Only we were able to tailor what we did to her strengths and interests, rather than trying to fit her into the proverbial box.”

A problem faced by students who are homeschooled includes having less opportunities for the student and at some times it’s much different than the public school community.

“A disadvantage that I struggled with is that I felt behind because it’s not as structured as a public school,” Savannah said. “For example, my Econ class covered more of the history of Econ rather than the standard Econ requirements, so when I came to Rochester I had to retake the class because I couldn’t test out of it. A lot of people think that the social life is a disadvantage but you make friends through other activities such as sports, work, classes, etc..”

Being homeschooled also has its advantages, starting with being able to do your homework whenever you like.

“The biggest advantage was that I could technically schedule my day anyway I wanted,” Hill said. “I could take a trip to the library in the middle of the school day, or go out to lunch with my family or babysit my little cousins and get my work done afterwards. I also had a lot of time for doing creative things such as practicing music and writing stories.”

In the end, while homeschooling and public schooling both have their advantages, it all boils down to preferences.

“Too many [benefits of homeschooling] to include in a short paragraph! The biggest benefit was definitely allowing my children to grow and learn at their own pace at not on someone else’s timeline,” Mrs. Strickland said.

“There are other ‘lifestyle’ benefits too, such as traveling more often and not having to get on a school bus while it was still dark outside.”

PAGES 10-11 // SPREAD

THE TALON // APRIL 2016

Julia Couch and Natalie Treichel work in the greenhouse. Photo by Bilal Ibrahim

Julia Couch shows off some of her babies. Photo by Audrey

GREENHOUSE

Sophomore Julia Couch helps plants thrive in RHS’s green space.

BILAL IBRAHIM STAFF WRITER

Sophomore Julia Couch is on her way to school, already excited to go to the greenhouse to see how much her plants have grown. As soon as she gets to school, Couch goes to her locker, then straight towards the school greenhouse. She has to kill the smaller plants, water the ones that are growing well and tie the ones that are growing too tall to a bamboo stick.

Before principal Mr. Neil DeLuca gave Couch permission to use the greenhouse, nothing was growing in it besides dust.

“About second semester, I was like wow, [the greenhouse] is for storage - what a waste!”

Couch said. “I talked to Mr. DeLuca and he said I could use it, so I brought in a bunch of plants and stuff and I’ve been [using it] for a month now.”

Although she recently started using the school greenhouse, Couch has been gardening for over half her life.

“I started gardening when I was a little girl,” Couch said. “When I was 4-years-old, I planted sunflowers in little pots in my bedroom.”

Her mother and grandmother were the reasons she started gardening.

“I started because my mother has always been a big gardener and I thought it was really cool,” Couch said. “Also, my grandmother has a really cool garden that I love.”

Couch likes to grow a variety of vegetables, Sophomore Natalie Treichel helps with a herbs and flowers. variety of tasks in the greenhouse.

“I probably have about 20 or 25 different “I help Julia by watering all the plants types of plants,” Couch said. “It’s mostly herbs when they need it,” Treichel said. “She usually and vegetables, but I grow a lot of flowers. makes sure they’re all growing properly. I also My favorite things are sunflowers, daisies, sometimes help her plant new plants.” marigolds [and] cosmos. I also like growing Couch explains her process to get plants to corn. I just grow it until it’s a foot or two tall thrive. and then I plant it in the ground and it gets “Usually, you have to plant two plants in really big. Everything’s really fun, actually.” each pot and whichever one’s smaller, you She grows these plants at the school, but have to kill, which is kind of sad,” Couch said. when they get too large, “That’s called thinning.” she transplants them to She dedicates a lot “I started gardening when her own garden at home. of her time to keep all I was a little girl. When I “I have a huge, the vegetables, herb and was 4-years-old, I planted huge garden at my flowers healthy. sunflowers in little pots in my house which I have not “I garden every started putting things day for 30 minutes to bedroom.” in, but I should transfer an hour,” Couch said. some stuff from the “Before school, I usually Julia Couch, 10 greenhouse and plant get here at 7:10 and I like //////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// some other things,” to garden if I have time.

Couch said.

During lunch, I usually Sometimes, the work can get tedious, but spend my whole time there. Sometimes I spend she has some friends that work with her in the an [additional] hour after school.” greenhouse.

Treichel agrees that Couch loves her plants.

“When plants get tall enough, you have to “She spends a lot more time in the tie them to a bamboo stick so they don’t fall greenhouse than I do,” Treichel said. “She’s over,” Couch said. “If they do fall over, they often there before and after school, sometimes die and it’s sad and I have a mini funeral. But for even an hour.” mostly I just tie bamboo sticks to plants, which Couch had to leave her plants behind when is kind of lame. One of my friends, Natalie, she went on vacation during spring break. gardens with me at lunch sometimes.”

“I was in Florida and I didn’t get to [go

to the greenhouse],” Couch said. “One of the janitors, Mr. Bruner watered my plants. As soon as I got back, I was like, ‘my babies!’”

According to Couch, caring for the plants in the greenhouse takes a lot of passion and commitment.

In addition to watering all the plants in the greenhouse, Mr. Bruner has some plants of his own.

“Yeah, I grow all of this,” Mr. Bruner said.

“These are peppers, tomatoes and basil. I’ve got a bunch of gardens at home. I make sure that the plants are getting moisture.”

Mr. Bruner explains why he gardens.

“It’s my hobby; it’s what I like doing when I’m not at work,” Mr. Bruner said. “I always garden all summer because I like the nice, fresh produce.”

Couch encourages others to garden too.

“A few plants is easy; all you have to do is water them,” Couch said. “I now have over 300 plants. You have to constantly tie them and weed them and water them and replant them, distribute things and break them apart. It’s like I’m their mom.”

Members of the Green Club work to take out the recycling for all the classes in the school. Photo by Audrey Weber

ECO-AWARENESS RHS students promote environmentally conscious choices. initiatives..

“We recycle the entire school, hold STAFF WRITER electronic recycling events and promote In addition to working on her plants in the environmentally friendly initiatives around greenhouse, sophomore Julia Couch shows her the school,” Mr. Shurter said. “This year we love for the earth in many different ways. raised money and bought efficient hand dryers “I shower every three to four days to to replace the paper towel holders in four conserve and I also have a compost bin,” bathrooms.”

Couch said. “I have a garden at home and at Despite the steps Rochester has taken, some school. I recycle religiously too.” believe there should be more extreme measures Although being to create a more ecoearth-friendly may seem “Caring for the environment friendly school. inconvenient to many, “I would love to is something that each there are multiple ways see compost at RHS,” person must cultivate for to be “green” on a daily Eisele said. “Organic themselves. I guess the basis that are fairly simple. waste, such as apple school’s willingness to be Sophomore Nora Eisele cores, banana peels and understands how little progressive would just drag leftover veggies don’t changes can make big need to go into the everybody along.” impacts over time. landfill.”

“As cliché as it sounds, Something holding Nora Eisele, 10 the little things make people back from /////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// the biggest difference,” keeping the environment Eisele said. “The things clean is the lack of we’ve learned since kindergarten are important. information about how humans impact on the Turning off lights and conserving water makes earth. a huge difference, as well as making a conscious “[We have to ] have more information about effort to cut down on trash.” what we are actually doing to the earth and not The RHS community continues to gradually sugar coat it,” Couch said. “[We should] show promote change in the way students and staff students the truth about what is happening to treat the environment. Science teacher and our world and alternatives they can use.”

Green Club sponsor Mr. Brandon Shurter While some believe that enough knowledge guides many of the school’s eco-friendly of the influence of human actions on

AUDREY WEBER

the planet will change how they treat the As time goes on, many people are starting environment, others consider it to be a decision to realize how important the environment truly that people have to make on their own. is and taking more steps in the right direction.

“I personally think caring for the “I see a major growth in Earth Day environment is something that each person popularity because as more people realize the must cultivate for themselves,” Eisele said. negative effects we have on our planet the “Telling people to kick off their shoes and more they will try to bring awareness,” Alsaigh hug a tree won’t really do said. “[They will] be a part Reasons people don’t recycle of a celebration to help save much. I guess the school’s willingness to be progressive the planet.” would just drag everybody For those already along.” involved in creating a more Earth Day, which is eco-friendly community, they celebrated on April 22 every see multiple reasons why year, goes all the way back the planet needs to be taken to 1970. The first day this care of. holiday was ever celebrated “[Just] when you look at 20 million Americans came flowers popping up in the together in rallies to protest spring and the 300 shades for a healthy, supportive of green that flicker from environment, according to the trees in the summer,” Inaccessible/inconvenient the Earth Day Network.

Eisele said. “I don’t see how Too much work This important day is anyone could not be in love Recycle no matter what very significant to some with nature.”

Other reason and has a bigger meaning, To someone who is in Source: www.call2recycle.org love with the earth, there including junior John Alsaigh. is just one basic idea that lies behind all the “Earth Day is important because it reasons why people should be more green. celebrates the planet that gives us life,” Alsaigh “The most important thing to remember said. “[It] brings awareness to certain issues is to leave the earth better than you found it,” that are very important to us that aren’t Eisele said. “Do something to make the world necessarily thought about on a day-today basis more beautiful.” like pollution and global warming.”

PAGE 12 // ENTERTAINMENT

THE TALON // APRIL 2016

CAPTAIN AMERICA CRAZE RHS gets pumped for the Civil War ANGELA MAMMEL

ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR As the release date for “Captain America: Civil War” nears, students like sophomore Chester Ho’s excitement mounts with each passing day. As he re-reads the Civil War comics in preparation for the movie, he has no doubt Marvel will be able to surpass his high expectations for the epic battle between two iconic superheroes.

“I really enjoyed reading the Civil War story arc, and I can’t wait to see a really cool adaptation that’s close to the comics on the screen,” Ho said.

“I’m looking forward to the intense fighting between Cap and Iron Man through both ideology and physical contact.”

Social studies teacher Mr. Chad Zwolinski is equally excited to see the battle on the big screen. He appreciates that one of the reasons fans are so drawn into the conflicts Captain America faces is because our country has dealt with similar issues to the hero.

“I am most looking forward to seeing one of the greatest comic story arcs being portrayed on screen,” Mr. Zwolinski said. “The divide between Cap and Iron Man is a true reflection of the issues of privacy and security we faced after 9/11, so my inner comic book nerd and history nerd are both excited!”

As RHS prepares to see their favorite superheroes duel it out, many are divided on whether to support Cap or Iron Man. Sophomore Fatima Uddin is divided between the two hero’s sides.

“Iron man has made so many mistakes in his life and he finally wants to try to fix them by being regulated by the government to prevent future wrongdoings, which I really respect,” Uddin said. “But then I absolutely love Cap and I feel like he needs to protect Bucky, who’s unwillingly been used as a weapon.

I’m undecided, I guess.”

Mr. Zwolinski is decidedly on Team Cap, and he feels this way mainly because he admires the hero’s character and heart.

Mr. Zwolinski and sophomore Fatima Udidn get excited to see their favorite superheroes face off in the Civil War. Photo by Angela Mammel “I’m on Team Cap because he has the biggest heart of any superhero, and the American spirit should beat Snarky Stark any day,” Mr. Zwolinski said. “I think also since I was a kid I’ve just always really admired Cap and how he was so dedicated to his cause and unable to let anything get in his way. He’s an underdog who isn’t willing to let his restrictions shape who he becomes, which I really admire.”

Even though many at RHS may disagree as to whose team they’re on, they can agree on their excitement for the appearance of Spiderman in the film.

“In the Civil War story arc, Spidey’s one of the key characters because he’s divided between the two sides, and it’ll be really interesting to see Peter Parker’s arc in how it’s showed on screen,” Ho said. “He’s definitely torn apart between the two sides, and it’ll be cool to see how they portray him with his emotions

like that.”

Many APUSH students are equally enthralled with this incredible world, and Mr. Zwolinski organized a trip for them to go see the movie and relax the day before they tackle their AP test.

“I have always wanted to let my students know that I care about them and that I want them to enjoy APUSH,” Mr. Zwolinski said. “With the AP test the next day, there was no better way to unwind than to see our American hero kicking butt on screen to inspire APUSH students to do the same on May 6th!”

Most of Mr. Zwolinski’s APUSH kids are so excited to see the movie with their friends in this setting, and even those who aren’t able to, like Uddin, wish they could.

“I so wish I could see it [with APUSH] because I could share all my excitement about this movie with my friends before the release date, and have fun and relax before

the AP test, which would be super beneficial,” Uddin said. “I’m also sad I’m missing all the pre-test pep talks that I feel like will happen there, but hopefully I can see the movie soon after my friends do.”

Uddin hopes to see the movie as soon as possible so she can add to her love of the Captain America movies as a whole, as well as seeing the outcome of the epic fight on screen that she has looked forward to for so long.

“I love the movies because they’re a lot of fun to watch, and they’re really emotional so you can get super attached to them,” Uddin said. “I feel like this one is just going to escalate that attachment by pitting two of our favorite superheroes against each other. Although that obviously happens in the comics, I feel like seeing it on screen is going to add so much to it, and I’m so excited.”

Ho also loves the Captain

America movies, with “Winter Soldier” being his favorite. Although he has high hopes for “Civil War,” he’s scared they won’t be able to fit its large and complex storyline into one movie.

“Marvel’s being super on top of the comics right now and I love it,” Ho said. “‘Winter Soldier’ is my favorite movie, and I’m pretty sure that one is going to be better than Civil War.” No matter the outcome of the Civil War, fans like Mr. Zwolinski will continue to love Captain America because of how the movies allow them to escape from their everyday life and remain a kid at heart.

“These movies give us a great escape and allow us to be kids again --when you grow up you don’t get to play with action figures like when you’re younger,” Mr. Zwolinski said.

“It reminds us that even as adults or teenagers we can still have a kid spirit.”

PAGE 13 // FEATURE

THE TALON // APRIL 2016

Students enjoy spring break vacations

1.

These students’ Twitter photo submissions amassed the most favorites in The Talon’s spring break photo contest.

2.

3.

4.

1. Senior Nate Kustasz traveled to Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic.

2. Senior Haley Linn traveled to New York City, Hershey, D.C., Virginia and Myrtle Beach.

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3. Senior Andrew Sare traveled to Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic.

4. Senior Michael Yerge traveled to Gibraltar in Spain.

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PAGE 14 // ENTERTAINMENT

THE TALON // APRIL 2016

LOLLAPALOOZA

Fans cheer for the band “Coasts” at Lollapalooza 2015.

Photo Courtesy of Creative Commons

Thousands prepare for one of the biggest festivals of the summer MAKENZIE SHUBNELL

ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR

With summer on its way, festival season has officially started, meaning thousands of music-lovers are traveling across the country to attend the most popular music and arts festivals. The majority of people attending these weekend-long events prepare weeks in advance, searching for outfits, looking up the best places to eat and creating their perfect set list. There’s no doubt that most people have heard of Coachella, but considering the far travel and high expenses, Michiganders tend to lean towards another popular festival, Lollapalooza.

Being the huge festival it is, Lollapalooza was sure to have a few Rochester High attendees, including math teacher Mr. Rob Byrd, who highly recommends the show.

“It is a great festival,” Mr. Byrd said. “I like it better in Chicago than when it tours, because it just seems like more of a special event.”

Considering music is the reason so many people are interested in these festivals, it makes sense

that there would be many popular artists there, from pop singer Ellie Goulding, to indie bands like Daughter.

“The best part about Lolla is that they target everyone,” Mr. Byrd said. “Last year, Metallica headlined.

Their musical selection is quite varied, and everyone who attends will be able to find something they enjoy listening to. Last year, I went and saw Metallica, Kid Cudi, and Walk the Moon. This year, I am very jealous towards anyone going on Friday to see Radiohead. I’d love to see Haim and Red Hot Chili Peppers this year as well.”

However, some like junior Jacob Perry believes that Lollapalooza aims for a more specific demographic. “[Lollapalooza targets] high school, college kids and young adults,” Perry said. “The lineup and party atmosphere appeal to energetic individuals. “ Of course, not everyone knows what to expect when attending such a huge to-do, so they turn to social media for help according to Perry.

“People like to post the lineup and talk about bands they’re excited

concert would, and the price is to see,” Perry said. “It’s a very extremely competitive,” Mr. Byrd different experience that students said. “At Lolla, I get the whole day would enjoy.” of bands for the same price. [A] Senior Miah Fowler explains drawback to festivals can be the time that there is also a lot of hype commitment. It may be hard to get surrounding the festival, as many to Chicago for 4 days. You have people tweet, post and snap their to plan it like a vacation. That said, experiences.

I love festivals, “It definitely gets “The best part about Lolla is and go to Lolla whenever I can.” hyped up on that they target everyone.”

The music social media, is not the only but I mean Mr. Rob Byrd, math teacher aspect that make it’s a four day /////////////////////////////////////////////////////// concert with festivals worth attending, as music and there are over new people thirty food vendors attendees can so what’s not to be hype about?” grab a bite.

Fowler said. “I’ve seen videos “The food and bands changes of performances and they look every year,” Mr. Byrd said. “But last amazing.” year I had some Truffle Popcorn When it comes down to it, from Graham Elliot’s restaurant, festivals are a lot of work, but there and it was awesome.” are positives to attending a festival Although music festivals are as opposed to a common concert. rising in popularity, not many There may be more preparation and teens have ever been to one, and travel involved, but attendees get Lollapalooza is a first-festival more bang for their buck. experience. Senior Angela Lekosiotis “While festivals can be more explains her experience in the expensive, they put you in front of festival scene. way more bands than a traditional

“I haven’t really gone to music festivals, the only thing I have gone to so far is concerts at The Palace, Joe Louis, Ford Field, and DTE,” Lekosiotis said. “Although I have heard that Lolla is one of the top music festivals out of all of them.

I personally have never been to Lollapalooza, but some of my older friends have. That’s why this year I am going ... with all of my friends and older brother and sister.”

Even those who have a good idea what festivals can hold are excited to see what Lollapalooza is all about for themselves, and are anticipating a great weekend.

“I went to Mad Decent with friends last year and it was super fun, so I’ll have to wait and see which is better,” Fowler said. “I’ve never been, so I’m really excited to see how it goes.”

All in all, Lollapalooza is guaranteed an interesting time, and festival fans should definitely consider adding this one to their list.

“It has met my expectations every time I have attended,” Mr. Byrd said. “ I love Lolla.”

THE TALON // APRIL 2016

PAGE 15 // ENTERTAINMENT

MICHIGAN MUSIC FESTIVALS 1. MOPOP

MOPOP Detroit is an annual event hosted in West Riverfront Park that primarily features artists that enter the alternative/Indie spectrum. As most of the lineup is much more on the “pop” side of alternative, the festival has proven to be successful with fans in the area. Considering that the alternative music genre is so broad, this one label cannot cover the entirety of MOPOP. The 2016 lineup swings around the styles of G-Eazy and M83, contrasting with performances from Mac Demarco and Alex G. It also includes alternative artists like HAIM, Matt and Kim, and Glass Animals, with bands like FIDLAR providing even more variety in the mix. Overall, MOPOP Detroit fits any aspect of “chill” that you’d hope to find at an alternative festival.

MORGAN GALLAGHER

STAFF WRITER

WHEN:

July 23-24 WHERE:

Detroit, MI

2. Electric Forest WHEN:

June 23-26 WHERE:

Rothbury, MI

Possibly the most popular festival on the list, with 35,000 people fleeting in from across the US and Canada, Electric Forest 2015 had sold out in less than 24 hours - and will likely be no different in 2016. This festival focuses primarily on the EDM genre (standing for ‘Electronic Dance Music’) but is not entirely limited to it. With a lineup including The String Cheese Incident, Fetty Wap, Major Lazer, & Flosstradamus, Electric Forest will prove to be a truly exciting event. Located in Rothbury, MI’s Sherwood Forest, it’s common for participants to camp, hammock, and backpack on the site. The festival also includes multiple displays of art throughout, all set up amongst brightly lit trees to give a stunning and dreamlike feel.

3. Chill On The Hill

Yet another festival that offers varying types of “alternative,” Chill on the Hill seems to have the most contrast in genres from the shows our list. Though the lineup has not been announced yet for 2016’s festival, 2015’s performers included indie artists such as Cage the Elephant, Cold War Kids, The Wombats and others. It also featured more popular performers like Weezer and Panic! At the Disco; while jumping into a few metalcore/post-harcore bands, like We Came as Romans and Bearooth. If you’re looking for a bit of variety in your festival, (without the pop, rap, or EDM) Sterling Height’s Chill on the Hill is for you.

WHEN:

Sept 12-13 WHERE:

Sterling Heights, MI

4. Hoxeyville WHEN:

Aug 19-21

WHERE: Wellston, MI

Here’s a festival not so typical to the rest we’ve covered. Allaround, we know it’s easy to find fans of pop, EDM, rock, and alternative. But, have you ever met a Bluegrass fan? Chances are likely slim, but Hoxeyville Bluegrass Festival in Wellston, MI is where it all comes together. Bluegrass owes it’s roots to multiple branches of country and classic rock n’ roll, so the shows guarantee a wholehearted feeling. In a mix twanging bluegrass riffs, newcomers can explore 100+ acres of farmland among the Manistee National Forest. Hoxeyville is an epicenter of summer fun, with multiple biking trails, river spots, and camping sites. If you’re looking for a swingin’ time (that is, some pristine hammocking trees), Hoxeyville Bluegrass Festival is the ticket for you.

PAGE 16 // OPINION

THE TALON STAFF Editorial Board: Editor-in-Chief: Ninotchka Valdez News Editor: Julia Labban Feature Editor: Bailey Boerman Lifestyles Editor: Amanda Capaldi Entertainment Editor: Angela Mammel and Makenzie Shubnell Opinion Editor: Maria Broecker Sports Editor: Luke Deel Website Editor: Joel Fickel Copy Editor: Lauren Alison Staff Writers: Zahra Ahmed Fadi Bodagh Connor Bulka Hannah Chilcote Carly Craig Christian Fend Morgan Gallagher Ed Grijalva Bilal Ibrahim

Lauren Karmo Hussein Murray Ollie Najar Joe Schultz Taylor Simmons Maya Subramanian Audrey Weber Tori Wendt

Adviser: Mrs. Julia Satterthwaite

THE TALON POLICY The Talon is the official student publication of Rochester High School. We are now available both in print and online editions. Check out rochestertalon.com, @rhstalon on Twitter, @falconsofrhs on Instagram and like The Talon on Facebook for more great content.

The print edition of The Talon is issued monthly during the school year and is devoted to the interest of the student body, parents and alumni of RHS. The Talon strives to create a publication that is informative, entertaining, accurate and professional.

The mission of The Talon is to accurately, truthfully and professionally report on events and issues that are of interest to the student body, entertain readers and serve as a valuable archive of the happenings of the school.

The views expressed in The Talon are those of the staff or individual staff writers and do not necessarily represent the views of the administration.

The editors encourage communications and reactions from students, alumni, parents and friends of the school. All communications must be signed, but signatures may be withheld from publication upon request. The Talon values feedback from the community on its articles and other media. However, we maintain the right to censor inappropriate dialogue in comments.

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THE TALON // APRIL 2016

STAFF EDITORIAL

Islamophobia is unnacceptable and discriminatory When people think of terrorism, they often think of Islam. However, this association is actually a subconscious stereotype that is a by product of discrimination.

Terrorist groups shouldn’t be seen as a reflection of Islam, since they are radicalist groups that use religion as an excuse to harm others. People make the ignorant assumption that Islam is violent and hateful, but in reality, it’s just another religion that provides answers about life to a group of individuals.

Most Americans view the events of 9/11 as the most catastrophic terrorist attack on U.S. soil. The phrase “remember 9/11” is often used in relation to this event as an urge to remember the lives that were lost on that day. While it is important to acknowledge these casualties, few remember the impact the event had on Muslims in the U.S. After the attacks on the Twin Towers, numerous Muslims were assaulted and even killed because ignorant individuals thought that killing innocent followers of Islam was somehow a good solution. These people never hurt anyone, and yet they still faced a twisted interpretation of revenge from those who were too caught up in their misplaced anger.

This discrimination still occurs today, as Muslims are constantly used as the punch line in terrorism jokes even though they have no association with the horrendous practice. The hateful treatment that they experience is unacceptable and should be eliminated.

Because of this discrimination, some Muslims even feel that they must abandon their religion or culture, keeping their religious beliefs secret and sometimes even changing their names to blend into white America. This does not correlate with the principle that “all men are created equal” or with the First Amendment in the Bill of Rights, which entitles people their right to practice any religion.

The actions of a group or person should not alter the view of those who share the same racial or religious background, regardless of the circumstances or affected race. If discrimination towards African-Americans was made illegal due to the Civil Rights Acts, the same practice should be made towards all other religions and races.

The notion that the majority of terrorist attacks are committed by Muslims has been proven untrue, as seem in a study done by the website Global Research. The site stated that 90 percent of terrorist attacks between 1980 and 2005 were committed by non-Muslims. The association between terrorism and Islam is quite small. However, this connection is intensified by the media frequently covering Middle-Eastern affairs.

The acts of “Islam” that these terrorist groups have committed aren’t truly acts of Islam.

These actions contradict the ideology of Islam and its primary beliefs. People who believe in anti-Islamic sentiment and state that all Muslims stand for the terrorism that occurs in society today have not picked up or read a single page of the Qu’ran, the holy book of Islam. In countless pages, it is made clear that Islam stands for peace and equality.

Islamic communities have actively taken part in providing the proper information about Islam such as ISPU (Institute of Social Policy and Understanding) and CAIR (Council on AmericanIslamic Relations). Both groups handle matters in issues regarding Islamophobia and spread the peaceful message of Islam.

The negative portrayal of Muslims in the media is unnecessary and extremely unwarranted.

Characterizing a majority by looking at a minority of radical groups is a poor practice and should be eradicated from American society and culture.

“If racial discrimination is unnacceptable, religious discrimination should be handled the same way.”

Hussein Murray, 10

“A lot of people are Islamophobic because of 9/11, but a lot of people don’t realize that ISIS and other terrorist groups have nothing to do with Islam.”

Carly Craig, 11

“ “It’s really frustrating when people judge everyone who practices Islam for the acts of small percent of their population. We all need to respect each other.”

Angela Mammel, 10

PAGE 17 // OPINION

THE TALON // APRIL 2016

#goals

MARIA BROECKER OPINION EDITOR

Photo by Tommy Massa

TECHNOLOGY BOND UPDATE: Athletic wing to receive much-needed makeover CONNOR BULKA STAFF WRITER

It’s been widely thought that Rochester High School’s track and football field has been in need of a major restoration. Thankfully, it was recently announced that starting this summer, the entirety of the stadium will be redone. This means that home games home games will be held at different schools and the filed will become a construction zones, but it will be worth the wait.

Through the years, the RHS track has been a disaster. The track has caused countless scrapes and injuries among many runners, and even in gym classes. Having a new surface to run on would help our team in countless ways, including efficiency and ease of practice. Having a new track will help keep our highly valued students and teams safe.

This does also include the gym classes that use the track for outdoor

activities and testing. Gym classes record times for grades, and a track should not hinder one’s grades.

One of the most popular events our school hosts every year are the football games in the early stages of the school year. Hundreds of people show up to watch out varsity team compete almost every game. With this many visitors coming through the gates, it’s important to make the spectators feel comfortable. With the current state of our bleachers, concessions, and pathways, the appeal to watch a Rochester football game goes significantly down.

These additions would accommodate the student section, which has been ranked highly in terms of attendance when compared to other schools across the state.

It is important that the Soldiers of Fortune are awarded for their work in increasing game attendance in regards to students. The lack of comfort results in numerous students not actually watching the game, and instead forces

students to sacrifice their ability to watch the game for comfort instead.

At almost all of the sports events that are held at the football field, including, boys and girls lacrosse, football, boys and girls soccer, and many other intramural sports, require an entrance fee to watch. This means that our school consistently receives income from these sports events.

Having a comfortable, and up to date stadium will create a more pleasant viewing experience that will encourage more people to pay their way into an event. With this funding, we will help compensate for the costs of the new stadium, and put any future revenue into other avenues like education materials or other building renovations.

Although the costs of rebuilding an entire football stadium might be hefty, it’s an important way in which our families, staff and student body interact. The events held in the stadium are important to our school’s rich history of excellence, and our current field does not accurately represent that.

Other programs outside of RHS may utilize the football field for their own benefits. In order for these programs to continue investing in RHS, we need a reliable facility. Without renovations, outside programs may discontinue their associations with RHS. This would hurt profits RHS may make from the use of its recreational facilities.

The recreation of our football field will create many more avenues of success for RHS for both athletics and education. Representing ourselves aesthetically is an extremely important aspect to consider when trying to create a better school and environment for our students and community.

Our generation’s overuse of the term #goals is evident on social media sites with phrases like #relationshipgoals, #bodygoals, #squadgoals, #makeupgoals and more.

But some might say that our generation doesn’t care about real goals anymore.

One may define his or her goals as long-term for the future, such as aiming for a certain occupation, or short-term, such as getting an A on their next test. Goals should highlight a person’s real character by measuring his or her determination in life. If someone sets high goals, he or she has the motivation to go far in life, compared to someone who doesn’t set goals.

However, there are a lack of students who set real goals and instead just post comments on other’s Twitter, Instagram and Snapchat posts about their “goals.”

This new generation is settling for others’ “lifestyles” to be their own goals, and this should not be the case, because young adults should set high, individual goals for themselves so they can be the best they can be.

Young adults should be aiming higher in their goals and focusing on their grades or their future.

Teenagers have the world in their hands, with so many opportunities just waiting to be fulfilled. Whether it concerns grades, athletics, college or future occupations, teenagers should have realistic and high standard goals.

Aspiring to have the lifestyles of peers is not an example of real goals.

Teens should not desire to have another’s lifestyle, their relationship, style, body, hair, family or friends.

Goals then evolve into a competition about being better than someone else. Goals are a personal matter, and everyone is different, so everyone should have their own goals realistic to their own self and lifestyle. Not everyone’s life is the same and not everyone wants to the same outcome in life.

Teenagers should desire to be different from the crowd. Their goal should be to rise above and reach beyond the average lifestyle.

One should not always base their goals on what everyone else is doing, we were never meant to be like everyone else and our goals should not reflect that.

PAGE 18 // SPORTS

THE TALON // APRIL 2016

This is the Daylily Basketball court, where the league games take place. Photo by Ed Grijalva

DAYLILY BASKETBALL LEAGUE

The student organized league tips off this month ED GRIJALVA STAFF WRITER

Daylily park is a place that is well known to few groups of people at Rochester High school. It is tucked in the back of the Wildflower subdivision, named after the street that it is on. However, for the next couple months the court will be used by more students than ever before as senior Gian Anovert and junior Kyle Johnson have created the Daylily basketball league.

“Daylily is just a great place to play basketball,” Anovert said. “Rochester never seems to try to organize their own basketball tournament like they do for dodgeball so we decided to do it ourselves.”

For its first year, the Daylily “3 on 3” basketball tournament is composed of 14 teams with a total of 56 players from RHS. 15 of the 56 are seniors.

“It’s our last year here at Rochester,” Anovert said. “We wanted to bring together a group of people that enjoy a sport and this would be something fun to do for our last few months or so” For some, like Daylily resident and senior Andrew Schaefer, the basketball court there is nothing new.

“I’ve been playing there for a long time,” Schaefer said. “It good see that

doubt my skills on the court too, so they more people will get to find out about this need to know I have that Kobe Bryant park and maybe they’ll keep coming back mamba mentality and I can rub it their face even after the league is over.” with the bills afterwards.”

An outdoor, concrete ground basketball High school boys can get competitive court is never the same experience as sometimes which can lead to conflicts playing indoors in a wooden-floored gym. because of it. Luckily, the league leaders Senior Nate Kustasz sees pros and cons of Anovert and Johnson implemented rules. playing basketball at Daylily.

“For the most part, we implemented “Playing some ball with your boys on RARA basketball rules,” Anovert said.”But a nice sunny day, our rules will always be nothing beats it,” changing week by week “It’s our last year here at said Kustasz. “The because a situation might Rochester. We wanted to bring court gets pretty together a group of people that arise where there needs slippery if it rained enjoy a sport and this would be to be a ruling and we recently, the corners something fun to do for our last haven’t thought of one are really small and yet.” few months or so.” the lines could be One of the rules of repainted a little. the league is that a team Gian Anovert, 12 Other than that, the can have no more than court is pretty darn /////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// one varsity basketball good.” player. Sophomore Everyone has a Hunter Schattler is one different reason for playing in this league, of those select varsity players that have Some are playing for the love of the game, decided to enter their talents in the league some because of their friends, and others “I just decided to play for fun,” Schattler because they want to make some extra said. “My friends asked to play and I love cash. Each of the 14 teams payed $10 to basketball so why not, it’ll be a good time.” play in the tournament, bringing the total The Daylily basketball league is looking to $140 which would all go to the winner to be a good time for those involved, with of the league. all of the 14 teams looking like they could “I’m just tryna make some cash you have a shot at winning. The clear favorite know,” junior Charlie Ward said. “People so far among the participants would be

Jacobo’s Mexican Gang, made up of juniors Thomas Loftus, varsity basketball player Ivan Barraza, Demetri Pliakos and league leader Kyle Johnson.

“They’re real good, lots of talent on that team with guys that could play varsity if they wanted too,” Ward said. “But it’s Daylily, you don’t have to be good to win some games there. Anything could happen.”

TEAM NAMES Splash Brothers ZAZO Upset Alert Jacobo’s Mexican Gang TLOB Shrey Team Team Gooood Joey’s Squad The Little Rascals 4 Guys 1 Ball The Savage Negroes Slank Team Bucket Men The White Jersey’s

PAGE 19 // SPORTS

BOYS LACROSSE

THE TALON // APRIL 2016

Recent graduate Noah Kusky returns as a coach CARLY CRAIG

CIRCULATION MANAGER RHS alumnus Noah Kusky, ‘15, steps onto the familiar field where he played lacrosse for four years. He has a different way of viewing things, because instead of playing, he now coaches.

“The transition from a player to a coach is tough because it’s so weird watching from the sidelines and not playing,” Noah Kusky said. “Working with my old coaches is great because they know me and what I can do.

There is still a lot I can learn from them and pass onto the team.”

Varsity lacrosse player, junior Kiyon Govender talks about what it’s like having Noah Kusky assist with coaching.

“The coaches give good advice on how to improve, and we run drills that help us where we need it,” Govender said. “Having Noah [Kusky] be there for some practices is also helpful because he can focus on details that [the other] coaches may miss.”

Fellow varsity lacrosse teammate, junior Michael Williamson agrees with Govender.

“The coaches help us get better by not only teaching us the game, but also pinpointing our mistakes and then showing us what we can do to fix them,” Williamson said.

“They’re always pushing us to be our best. Its nice having a former player around [Noah Kusky], because he can understand our thinking behind our actions because of the small age gap.”

Noah Kusky talks about why he decided to return this season as a coach.”

“I wanted to keep the tradition alive, and teach kids how they can be the best that they can be,” Noah Kusky said.

Due to the fact that Noah Kusky only graduated last year, his little brother, junior Eli Kusky is on the varsity lacrosse team this year. Noah Kusky commented on what it’s like working with his brother as a coach instead of as a player.

“Coaching for my brother is different because I can’t play with him,” Noah Kusky said. “But I still show him everything I can.”

Eli Kusky comments on how lacrosse plays into his relationship with his brother.

“Outside of school, Noah and I are really close and we talk all the time,” Eli Kusky said. “He gives me pointers on the field and different situations for what to do.”

Although, Eli Kusky finds it to be a different experience entirely than when him and his brother played side by side.

“I don’t get to see him on the field and during games, I don’t get to talk to him,” Eli

The Varsity lacrosse team members take off their helmets to pay respect during the National Anthem. Photo by Patrick McIntyre Kusky said. “But when he’s on the sideline, probably the fact that you can’t just be good he’s still there.” at the sport,” Azzam said. “You have to be Williamson talks about how the lacrosse good physically as well, or you’re not going to team is like a second family to him. do good.”

“This lacrosse season has really opened Eli Kusky also comments on his favorite my eyes as to what it’s like to have your part of lacrosse. team be your second “My favorite family,” Williamson part of lacrosse is “[Lacrosse is] something scoring,” Eli Kusky said. “Whether you’re at school or on the where we can go out and said. “It makes me field, you always have accomplished, create a brotherhood and feel someone looking out for like I’ve done skills, and people we can enough work.” you.”

Noah Kusky agrees Although keep in our lives forever.” with Williamson, about lacrosse is a team the pros of being on the sport, Williamson lacrosse team. talks about how you -Noah Kusky, coach “Playing for the can improve in the /////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// team is great,” Kusky sport by yourself. said. “It’s a lot of fun, “My favorite the sport is fast paced and interactive for part about lacrosse is that you don’t need to everyone.” be with someone, have a net, or have a fancy Varsity lacrosse player, junior George rebounder to practice,” Williamson said. “All Azzam talks about his favorite part of playing you need to do is play wall ball, [an exercise lacrosse. where you bounce the ball off the wall and “My favorite part about lacrosse is work on your lacrosse skills] to help with

your passing and shooting.”

Williamson hopes to see some personal improvement as well as an overall team improvement as the season progresses.

“I hope to improve my personal game by continuing to push myself to be the best player I can be,” Williamson said. “As a team, I want us to keep building up the chemistry and overall make the season a season to remember.”

Azzam addresses the difficulties of being on a varsity sport, and discusses areas where the team can improve.

“The season has been kind of a wake up call that you need to be as fit as you can be to survive in a varsity sport,” Azzam said.

“For the season I just hope that we keep improving as players and as a team with the little time we have together.”

Noah Kusky talks about why lacrosse is such a great sport, and why he loves to play it as well as coach it. “[Lacrosse is] something where we can go out and create a brotherhood and skills,” Noah Kusky said. “And people that we can keep in our lives forever.”

PAGE 20 // SPORTS

THE TALON // APRIL 2016

Left: Junior Ben Morrow pitches in a game against Avondale. Top right: Junior Jacob Jackson stands at second base. Bottom right: Junior Mark Matynka bats. Photos

by Ollie Najar

VARSITY BASEBALL

RHS baseball team anticipates a great season VICTORIA WENDT STAFF WRITER

Spring 2016 marks a new season for the RHS Varsity baseball team.

With old players graduating and new ones moving up, the team works hard to continue to play their best.

The team is made up of mostly underclassmen with only two seniors on the team, which is rare.

Although there is a low amount of senior boys, the team doesn’t see this to be a problem. Junior and first basemen Mark Matynka shares the team’s greatest weakness and how they will overcome it.

“Our team is very young this year, but [there’s] a lot of talent,” Matynka said. “Our weakest area on the team would probably be pitching. We have many young pitchers that will improve immensely over time and experience. Our plan is to compensate with our offense; the more runs that you score the less you have to worry about your defense.”

in your position. So when the ball Eric Magiera is Varsity’s Head is hit your way, it’s down to you Coach as of seven years, and has to make a play. It’s easy to have a been a coach in the RHS baseball mistake get into your head. As a program for 11 years. With all first year varsity player, outfielder of his experience in coaching, and catcher sophomore Drew he agrees with Matynka’s earlier Loftus understand this. comments.

“Getting down on myself [is “Our weakness is that we are my biggest weakness as a player],” young, with only two seniors in the Loftus program,” said. “I Magiera “Our strength is our talent and plan on my said. “Our strength is baseball knowledge. From the teammates picking our talent top down, we have very good me up and baseball players, and they all have great when this knowledge. baseball instincts.” happens.”

From the During top down, -Eric Magiera, coach spring we have //////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// break, while very good many other players, and they all have great baseball instincts. students are off on a vacation, taking a break from sports and Our boys work very hard as well, school, the Varsity baseball team and this will help us to make more stays home to play the game they progress as the season continues.” love most, baseball. Coach Magiera Baseball is a relatively individual talks a little about the tournament sport. Although there are eight that they have created. other teammates on the field with “We host the Oakland County you, you’re the only player that is

Spring Break Tournament,” Magiera said. “We created this tournament seven years ago, and it has grown into the largest tournament in the state with 16 teams, including teams from all parts of the state.”

Not being able to go on a spring break getaway can seem like an issue when joining the team, however, junior 3rd basemen and shortstop Tyler Frankhouse enjoys the tournament over the break.

“I like playing over spring break, I feel it is a good warm up for the season and gets us able to know how we each play so our team can begin to build chemistry before other teams, and also get that extra work in that some players don’t have the opportunity to do,” Frankhouse said.

The season has only started and the boys have many games ahead of them.

“We anticipate a great season,” Magiera said. “Our players have worked very hard in the offseason.”

RHS VARSITY BASEBALL SINGLE SEASON RECORDS Batting Average: Ron Pezzoni - .526 (1985) Hits: Mitchell Weber - 56 (2015) Home Runs: Tom Dieters - 8 (1979) Runs Batted In: Mike Hughes - 45 (1994) Tim Frankhouse - 45 (1998) Stolen Bases: Chris LaForrest - 33 (1991) Won-Lost Record: Andrew Good - 12-0 (1997) Earned Run Average: Andrew Good - 0.50 (1997) Strike Outs: Andrew Good - 110 (1998)