December issue 2016

C H A R I T Y

THE

TALON ROCHESTER HILLS, MI // DECEMBER 2016 // VOL. 79 ISSUE 3

As the holidays approach, volunteering surges. For more on students giving back, see pages 8-9.

PAGE 2 || NEWS

THE TALON || DECEMBER 2016

NEWS BRIEFS:

3.

2.

Photo courtesy of Rachel Rettie

Photo courtesy of Mrs. Facca

1. RHS

2. RCS

3. STATE

4. COUNTRY

5. WORLD

With the holiday season around the corner, student council planned a toy drive for Dec. 19-21. The drive was planned as a collective effort to provide less fortunate children with gifts for the holidays.

“Some of the toys we suggest people donate can range from coloring books and crayons to mini basketball hoops and footballs,” senior Hunter Cremen said.

“Remote control vehicles, journals, legos, and things of that nature are all accepted.”

Although the event does not happen annually, it is typically successful when it does run.

“I think this year because we have that three day week [before winter break], we go a little longer,” Student Council advisor Mrs. Kelley Cusmano said. “Hopefully people have more spirit.”

Whether it be a big present or something small, students are encouraged to donate.

“It’s something that you know a kid is always going to enjoy, no matter what kind of toy it is,” Mrs. Cusmano said.

Each year for the past three years, the Rochester Hills Department of Public Services has put on the “Paint the Plow” event. This experience gives Rochester Community Schools art programs the opportunity to paint a snow plow that will be used in Rochester Hills this winter. Students from North Hill and Brewster Elementary, Schools Hart and Reuther Middle Schools, and Rochester and ACE High Schools all participated this year. “[Paint the Plow] lets students display their organizations in their own artistic way,” Junior Jasneet Aulakh said. “[It] allows them to be more involved in government services.”

The “Paint the Plow” event allows students to be artistic and to see their work on display all winter around town.

“I wanted to utilize the new falcon logo this year and I really liked how it turned out,” designer and participant of “Paint the Plow” junior Rachel Rettie said. “ Students from most of the RCS schools come to create their own plow. It’s really interesting to see what holiday themed designs they came up with.”

In his fourth year as head coach, PJ Fleck, is taking the Western Michigan University football team to the Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic on Jan. 2 at the AT&T stadium in Arlington, Texas.

The Broncos, ranked number 15, are scheduled to play the Wisconsin Badgers, ranked number 8, at 1 p.m. The Broncos have recently won the MAC title, being one of two teams with an undefeated season.

Rochester High School Alumn Rachel Butala plays the flute for the WMU marching band and is honored to be apart of the Broncos journey.

“It feels so cool to be involved and to be going to such a prestigious bowl game”, Butala said. “It’s awesome that we get to be a part of this experience.”

The WMU marching band plays an influential role in making the game enjoyable and fun.

“Our most important job is to keep the crowd’s spirits up, no matter what,” Butala said. “As well as the team’s.”

Although the Broncos have a tough game to win and a difficult opponent to beat, the WMU Broncos are determined to “row the boat” to victory.

Brief by Jenna Norgrove

After months of protesting from hundreds of people around the world, the Dakota Access Pipeline has been rerouted. The Dakota Access Pipeline would connect oil-rich areas like North Dakota to Illinois, where the crude oil would be transported to refineries on the Gulf and East Coast.

The Dakota Access Pipeline would create an economic boom by bringing in an estimated $156 million in sales and income tax, and would also create 8,000 to 12,000 construction jobs.

The pipeline is a more environmentally friendly way to move crude oil, compared to transporting by rails or trucks.

Protesters argue that the pipeline would encourage the extraction of crude oil, instead of turning to renewable resources. The Dakota Access Pipeline crosses through land owned by the Standing Rock Sioux tribe. The construction of the pipeline would destroy the tribe’s burial sites, prayer sites and culturally significant artifacts.

A Lamia Airlines charter plane carrying 77 people crashed in Cerro Gordo, Colombia on Nov. 28, resulting in 71 deaths and six passengers being severely injured. The plane, which was flying from Bolivia, was carrying members of the Chapecoense soccer club and 21 journalists who were covering them. Only three members of the team survived, along with two crew members and a journalist.

The cause of the crash is reported to be an electrical failure, which may be due to extremely low fuel levels.

Investigations into this matter are still pending.

There is much controversy surrounding the cause of the crash, including reports that the pilot failed to inform passengers to fasten their seat belts. In addition, an air traffic controller claims that the pilot was made aware of the plane’s dangerously low fuel levels, but failed to acknowledge them. She is currently requesting asylum in Berlin.

“I’m at least glad that 6 people survived the plane crash and can go home to be with their families,” junior Lauren Grandy said.

Brief By Carly Craig

Brief by Elizabther Bulat

Brief by Grace Crites

Brief by Kathryn Chatman

THE TALON || DECEMBER 2016

PAGE 3 || NEWS

COOL WATER

New water fountains save water and plastic CHISTOPHER IPINA STAFF WRITER

Photo courtesy of Ollie Najar

The water fountain outside room F210 got an interesting new addition a couple months ago. The aforementioned water fountain is soon to hit 1,000 bottles filled in total. The new water fountains are part of a larger initiative by the district to update the school’s infrastructure and facilities. The eventual goal is to allow students access to updated equipment that will benefit the community overall.

11th grader Anthony Wong says the new water fountains make it easier for students to reuse water bottles.

“I think it’s pretty beneficial overall, makes it easier to refill your water bottle,” Wong said.

“Obviously that is something that is

positive towards the school, water is a crucial part of everyone’s life.”

“They help people think about re-using water bottles.”

Evan Hubble, Senior

The new water fountains also count how many water bottles they’ve filled in total. The number of bottles filled is listed on a small, rectangular, LCD display in the upper right corner. Senior Evan

Hubble commented on the impact of the filling devices.

“I think the new fountains are great because they help people think about reusing water bottles,” said Hubble. “The counter shows the progress the school is making for saving plastic.”

Green Club sponsor Mr. Schurter shared his thoughts about the effort.

“We dont really have much data,” Schurter said. “But the people that use them are happy so far.”

The water fountains are one of many updates the school has gone through in the past year. This is a benefit that students can see, and hopefully one that they are able to understand.

PAGE 4 || FEATURE

THE TALON || DECEMBER 2016

THE HAVEN

Local neighborhood shares location with old asylum

Photo courtesy of Rochester Avon Historical Society

ELIZABETH BULAT STAFF WRITER

Across from Rochester High School, the neighborhood of Grosse Pines, on Walton Blvd., houses many Rochester students. What many don’t know is that this subdivision was the location of a mental asylum for 30 years in the 20th century.

“It’s pretty creepy to know that my neighborhood was a mental asylum,” said Grosse Pines resident and RHS Sophomore Courtney Pye. In 1926, the Shinnick family moved to Rochester, and bought the 70 acres that the neighborhood of Grosse Pines now occupies. The Shinnicks built a huge estate called The Haven. However, when the Great Depression hit, the Shinnick family could no longer afford to maintain their mansion, so they turned it into a mental asylum. In the early 1900’s, treatment methods for mental illnesses such as lobotomies and shock treatment were used, but such practices are now seen as cruel. According to Historian Tiffany Dziurman Stozicki, The Haven was a hospital for addiction to alcohol and drugs, and didn’t perform lobotomies. It also helped people with bipolar disorder and schizophrenia.

The Haven not only housed the mentally ill from Rochester and surrounding areas, but it is rumored that Hollywood celebrities, politicians and criminals including Judy Garland, Ralph Bunche, well-known murderer Richard Wishnetsky and John F. Kennedy’s niece, Rosemary were treated there.

“The wealthy and famous, children/ young people, and the criminally insane,” Wendy Clem, author of The Haunted Haven Sanitarium: Home to Mystery, Movie Stars &

Murder, a book about the mental asylum. to change its purposes to be more focused “All were kept within its well-appointed on helping Rochester Community School’s floors and lovely grounds--AND it’s creepy students from 1949-1968. The students who basement that housed the more violent in were seen as antisocial or friendless were solitary confinement, surrounded by jars considered mentally ill and were sent to The containing body specimens.”

Haven for treatment.

According to Haven visitors and workers, “The hospital was quite advanced for The Haven’s interior was beautiful. It’s its day” Researcher and Historian Tiffany outside grounds were large and elaborately Dziurman Stozicki said. “It centered around landscaped. The Haven had a shot stone occupational therapy and was renowned for fence surrounding it that can still be seen its treatment plans, as well as the doctors the today from Walton Blvd.

Shinnick family The mansion itself employed to direct boasted 30 rooms, most and manage patient “The hospital was quite care. I think the of which were used to house and treat patients.

Rochester Plan for advanced for its day.”

As described by Clem, school children is the basement was used fascinating. It was for patients who became both somewhat Tiffany Dziurman violent, acquiring padded outrageous (for Stozicki rooms. The mansion today’s beliefs) and was once a deluxe house advanced for the furnished with state of time.” the art luxuries.

The Haven’s “The very handsome funds were home completed a year a half ago stands depleted, prohibiting it to continue being a back a full quarter of a mile from the road treatment center for troubled kids, leading and is reached by a winding driveway. Built to its eventual closing down. The building of red brick in old English style, it stands remained vacant for years. Ambitious and in spacious grounds containing 70 acres in daring teens would go there to explore all” said a Rochester Era 1928 newspaper or party. These teenagers, who are now article. “At the back of the house is a lovely grown, recap on their adventures and the rock-garden and the ground slopes down to details they gathered while exploring it. a fine natural pool with delightful woods and Chris Doliber was one of these visitors and a ravine yet farther on.” explained how the caretaker of The Haven The Haven’s popularity grew as Rochester would run them off of the property when developed, causing families to feel on edge caught so they had to be careful when they about the safety of the nearby mental toured the building. asylum. Sometimes the patients would “A bunch of us West Jr. high kids would escape and cause a panic in Rochester gather at my house and head to the Haven, until they were found. These dangers and (and) the caretaker would chase us with Rochester’s expansion caused The Haven his car through the front yard or on foot

through the house whenever he discovered us there,” Doliber said. “You’re literally running in circles, and you bump into others scrambling and not knowing which way to go, (then) you run around the corner and run right into the caretaker, almost knocking you both to the floor.”

The Haven’s interior started to get rundown, and it’s grounds quite overgrown.

After its closing in 1969, the caretaker and Rochester police force had to keep a constant eye on it in an effort to preserve and maintain it.

“The inside [was] damp and dusty smelling; some of the windows were broken and there was glass on the floor from that,” Haven visitor Chris Doliber said. “Other rooms had old medical equipment in it like I.V caddies and hospital beds, rubber hoses and bandages.”

In 1971, The Haven mysteriously burned to the ground. However, according to Clem, the basement of the Haven didn’t burn with the rest of the house. Still containing the padded rooms, medical equipment, and hospital beds, the basement was covered with dirt and the subdivision of Grosse Pines was built. The residents of Grosse Pines have had pipes and cables pop up out of the ground because of the erosion under the ground with the basement still being there. Of course, some believe that the neighborhood is haunted because of its eerie past.

“Landscapers talk about weird things being found in the yards of Grosse Pines homeowners that ‘wash up’ and surprise everyone, especially the homeowners,” Clem said. “And, somewhere I had heard a couple of homeowners had commented that eerie things had happened.”

PAGE 5 || FEATURE

THE TALON || DECEMBER 2016

SEPARATED FAMILIES

Students discuss what it is like to split time between two different households AMANDA CAPALDI LIFESTYLES EDITOR

Senior Alyssa Bottesi sits through another long car ride on a Friday night. She isn’t driving to the movies or a party though; she’s on her way to her father’s house.

All her life, Senior Alyssa Bottesi has lived in a separated family.

Making long car rides to her dad’s house to split her time between two places doesn’t strike her as anything peculiar- it’s the norm for her, along with 50 percent of teenagers in America, according to Life Course.

“My parents have been separated almost all my life so I don’t really see a difference, Bottesi said. “I kind of like it because if you get in trouble with one parent, you just go to the other one,” Junior Kaila Tverberg has had a similar experience, as her parents also separated when she was very young. Tverberg personally enjoys being to able to switch up the scenery every weekend.

“I like being able to move around, I don’t like having to be in the same house all the time,” Tverberg said. “Being able to go from mom’s to dad’s on weekends makes it a little bit better.”

Living in two different atmospheres has given Bottesi a vision on how she would in the future like to handle her household.

“You have like two different types of households. Like in my experience, one is a little cleaner and stuff like that, and then the other is dirty, and then one is like ‘let’s get this done’ kind of motive, and then the other is like ‘no we can relax,’” Bottesi said. “My parents are total polar opposites so you see what you want to do in your household one day.”

Senior Elizabeth West found it very difficult when she was younger to grow up with divorced parents due to the absence of her mother.

“I guess because it happened to me when I was so young I don’t really remember. I just remember not having a mom, and having everyone coming to school and wondering where my mom was,” West said. “At my school we had this thing called ‘Muffins

46%

6%

34% of kids live with unmarried parents

of kids live with a step-parent

of kids under 18 have parents in their FIRST MARRIAGE

Statistics from Facttank: “Fewer than half of U.S kids today live in a ‘traditional family.’” with mom,’ and I never could go because I didn’t have a mom.”

According to counselor Mr. Christopher Green, there are many different ways how divorce can affect a family.

“No two divorces are the same, so there really is no way to speak generally about divorce other than most present some difficulty in the transition and beyond. Even with the best of divorce situations how a child reacts to it cannot be controlled,” Mr. Green said.

“Some people just have a natural temperament of just being a little more sensitive or emotional about things, so regardless of what’s going on with the parents, the child’s temperament is such, that they are more sensitive to high levels of emotion, their experience of the divorce is going to much different than somebody who wasn’t as sensitive,” Mr. Green said. “It also depends on age, depending on where that child’s own emotional development is will also play a factor.”

Junior Meredith Benson is thankful her parents are together

and is unsure how they would handle being apart.

“If my parents were divorced, it would be a lot harder on both of my parents,” Benson said. “They are already going through a lot with three kids and just trying to work together to take care of all of us and I don’t know how they would handle it, or how we would handle it with just one of them.”

According to Bottesi, having divorced parents does come with its negatives.

“All the driving takes a long time. You get to the other house, and then it’s annoying if I want to go do something that night, and then I got to go to the other house. Or for holidays, you don’t know who to pick,or when they fight you can’t side with anyone, (because) you will lose no matter what,” Bottesi said. “Also, for events such as graduation where both your parents have to be there, it is SUPER awkward. It just shouldn’t happen. Especially if you have a stepmom or something and your mom is there.”

Junior Meredith Benson feels

for people who have to do a lot of extra travelling to see both parents, knowing that herself, she would prefer not to have the extra car rides.

“It seems like a lot of traveling [with separated families] and I’m really lazy on the weekends so I like to stay in my pajamas and veg,” Benson said. “All your stuff is in between two houses, and I heard that there are times when people leave their stuff at one house and then they need it for the other.”

Despite there being negatives of having a separated family, Bottesi finds many perks as well.

“You get lots of christmas presents. You get more family I guess depending on whether your mother and father married again or you get more brothers and sisters that you hadn’t had before,” Bottesi said.

Tverberg agrees with Bottesi about having more family and sees the positives of having divorced parents as outweighing the negatives.

“I feel like it’s better [to have separated parents] because you get the mom and then the dad

and then the step parents along the way,” Tverberg said. “You feel more loved because there are more people in your life.”

Despite it being hard growing up without her mother present in her life, West believes it was for the best.

“Everyone including my dad says that it is the best thing that my mom left, West said. “I guess I know that it was her reasoning [for] why she left, and that it was good for me.”

Mr. Green believes that whether one lives in a separated family or not, all that matters is that the family works well together.

“When you’re thinking about someone who lives in a separated family versus somebody who still lives in the traditional family, there is not necessarily a clean-cut one is better than the other,” Mr. Green said. “What it takes is to have a good family system, whether everyone is living in the home or not living in the home. It’s about how do all those different people and personalities interact, and what do they bring to that system.”

PAGE 6 || FEATURE

THE TALON || DECEMBER 2016

COLUMN: ANXIOUS MORGAN GALLAGHER DESIGN EDITOR

No one told me that calm was a luxury. But, then again, nobody expects you to know that clean water or internet access are luxuries either. A pair of shoes, working hands, winter coats.

Freedom, acceptance, love; All luxuries.

No one told me that calm was a luxury.

Lots of people like to ask what happens to you when your mental health starts to falter. A lot of the times, there’s an answer.

For me, I struggled to find one. My life, in reality, was great. I hadn’t found anything but confusion when I searched for an answer as to why I’d suddenly missed three days of school in a week--the other two days, I had gone home early. Fear is the root of anxiety, and I was terrified.

The difference between being anxious and having severe General Anxiety Disorder became as prominent as the contrast of black and white. No one should be expected to know this difference automatically--it’s difficult to contemplate even when it’s swallowing you. For the sake of understanding (which is what I hope to achieve in this piece), a therapist

had told me something that I always inundate to anyone that cares to ask.

Anxiety, in it’s simplest terms, is when the brain takes what people generally experience as nervousness (think the moments before a presentation, etc.) and amplifies it by 50, 60, 100, etc, based on how severe the conditions is. In short, it’s laborious, demanding, and no walk in the park.

I won’t give anyone a useless cliche as to how I “wouldn’t change my experience for anything”. Given the choice, I’d give it away in a heartbeat. The romanticization of sadness and struggle is something that I will always persevere. I will never perceive or glorify myself as stronger, more noble, or better than the average person because of what I had been given. I am an average person.

A 7-month struggle with anxiety has taught me things. I’d have saved myself in a multitude of ways if I knew how to handle what I was feeling. Of course, no one should be expected to know how to fight in a skirmish with their own brain without help (how could they?). Therefore, I come hoping to inform anyone who is lost. A flashlight is much more helpful in the dark.

My first “battle plan” had been finding a therapist. I still see the same one to this day.

I won’t say that therapy fixed everything for me, but it was incredibly valuable. The most important part in mental health struggles is being able to escape yourself. This is something I wished I had known. A therapist is two things: A listener, and an interpreter.

When you hear the running cliche that all therapists have to do is ask how something makes you feel, and their job is done, it’s more correct than I’d thought. Let it out.

Let the rational side of your brain speak, (because, most of the time, the irrational side gets the limelight) even if just to a friend.

Imagine being sealed up inside a jar alongside a rotting piece of fruit. The smell doesn’t stop suffocating you unless you open the jar.

I’m not going to come out and tell anyone that therapy can fix everything for everyone, because it’s not necessarily true. I’m one person, with one experience. At times, my anxiety got too tough to handle with only 45 minutes every Tuesday of talking about what went wrong through the week. Therapy, however, taught me things that I’d made sure to write down; things that separated the parts of me like an experienced surgeon would (of course, in the beginning, it was more like a college student performing for the first time on a dummy, but even that takes practice).

While therapy didn’t cover all of the issues I had been dealing with, it still took a lot of

the weight off, and I am incredibly thankful.

I won’t say that dealing with severe General Anxiety Disorder was impossible, because it wasn’t. In the end, it plainly left life unfocused- and I was exhausted of straining. I chose to medicate my unbalanced brain because it took the remaining weight off of my shoulders. I am, in no way, saying that this is the only route, or even the “correct” one, but it had proved to do me justice (as an individual).

No human being is the same, but we all have one thing in common; a chance to get better. Furthermore, I leave you with this: do what you have to do. Whether it’s seeing a therapist, talking to someone you trust, doing yoga, or looking into medicine. Do not give up. It’s okay to hit the bottom, (it’s not the end of the world, I’ve done it plenty of times, and here I stay) because you’ll always find a way to get back up. More than anything, I plead for everyone struggling to be nice to themselves. Tell yourself it’s alright to make a mistake, and that the road to recovery is not exponential. This is one cliche that I beg you to listen to. Keep going to school, work, church, etc. The last thing you want is avoidance - avoidance harbours fear, and anxiety is fear. Though it’s not fun, exposure therapy is effective. Trust me.

Remember, out of all, that you are valuable and loved (I promise). Last tip: go stargazing.

It works.

TOP 6 SELF-HELP BOOKS FOR TEENS OLLIE NAJAR

OPINION EDITOR The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho is a

fantastic story about a young boy that teaches life lessons for young people. The path the boy takes teaches about pursuing dreams and accomplishing goals.

The Toa of Pooh by Benjamin Hoff

teaches the simple practices of Toaism through the story of the classic characters of Winnie the Pooh. The novel helps appreciate simple living and peaceful thinking.

The Four Agreements

by Don Miguel Ruiz is based off of

The Secret by Rhonda Byrne

Toltec wisdom and describes the mentality necessary for succeeding in life, including that negative thinking is the main obstacle of joy and freedom.

is a book that reveals the key to all success.

Positive thinking results in success in every aspect of life. Health, wealth and joy thrive through confidence and self-belief.

The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R. Covey is

The Power of Positive Thinking by Norman Vincent Peale is a

a straight-forward piece describing the routines of successful people such as inventors, historical figures and celebrities that lead to their triumph in life.

book about the benefits of optimism and confidence when facing challenges in life. The book helps readers reach their goals in life with positivity.

PAGE 7 || LIFESTYLES

DRUG STORE NAIL POLISH

THE TALON || DECEMBER 2016

Which drug store nail polish proves to be the best?

LAUREN ALISON COPY EDITOR

Photo courtesy of Lauren Alison Procedure: For each of the different nail polishes, I first cleaned off each nail with nail polish remover to make sure that there was no excess oil that would prevent that nail polish from sticking to the nails. I then made sure to use only two coats of nail polish with each brand so that no one nail polish would have a better wearability. I also used two coats so that the nail polishes would be more comparable.

Nail Polish Brand: OPI Name of Color: You’re Such as Budapest Price: $10.00 Thoughts: OPI is a brand that I am very familiar with, being that I am the owner of several bottles. One of my favorite things about OPI is its ability to self-level.

You could glob the nail polish on and it would still spread out evenly. Another thing that I found that I loved about OPI was its smooth application. The formula is not goopy at all, and dries smoothly and quickly. There are some nail polishes that can take forever to dry and dent easily, but OPI dried fairly quickly and didn’t indent at all when I went to sleep 3 hours after the application. After the first day of wear, the nail polish remained completely intact. On the second day of wear, the nail polish only had slightly started to chip on one of my nails. On the third day, the nail polish was still only chipping on one of my nails, the same one as the day before.

After five days of wear, the nail polish had only slightly wore out around the tips, but other than that, the wear was pretty good.

Overall, this test helped to prove, once again, why OPI is one of my favorite nail polish brands.

Nail Polish Brand: Sally Hansen Hard as Nails Xtreme Wear Name of Color: Babe Blue Price: $2.99 Thoughts: Growing up, Sally Hansen Hard as Nails Xtreme Wear was my go-to nail polish brand. With its cheap price and wide variety of colors, my 12 year old self couldn’t ask for anything more. The first thing that I noted was its application.

To say that I was disappointed in its application would be an understatement.

The polish was streaky and kind of goopy.

Also, when applying a second coat, it seemed to not want to self level with the first coat and would grab at places on the nail. It was so bad that I wanted to take all of the nail polish off just because it looked so sloppy. Once the nail polish dried, it actually looked much better, but after the second coat, it still wasn’t completely opaque. The first day of wear was completely fine, with no chips at all.

It was on the second day that the nail polish had started chipping a fair amount, especially after I had taken a shower. By the beginning of the fourth day, the nail polish was completely deteriorating, and was not really wearable any more. Overall, the nail polish was okay. It lasted longer than the NYC nail polish, but still didn’t apply well.

Nail Polish Brand: NYC Long Wearing Nail Enamel Name of Color: Skyline Blue Price: $0.99 Thoughts: The first thing I noticed about this brand was how cheap it was. At $0.99, NYC Long Wearing Nail Enamel is the cheapest of all the drugstore nail polishes that I tried. Though the price was a huge pro, the application of the nail polish left much to be desired. The first coat of the nail polish was streaky and not opaque at all. The nail polish was also not self-leveling, which means that the polish didn’t spread itself out evenly and somewhat gathered. Overall, the application was pretty poor and did not look clean. Another thing that is not in favor of this brand is its wearability. On the second day of wearing this polish, I started to see it chip around the edges.

On the third day of wearing it, the nail polish was chipping a fair amount. Lastly, on the fourth day, after the chipping nail polish caught on multiple things, I finally decided to cut my losses and take it off.

Overall, the color was really nice, but that application and wearability left much to be desired. As a side not on the brand itself, there weren’t many color choices to choose from.

Nail Polish Brand: Essie Name of Color: Lilacism Price: $9.00 Thoughts: Being the owner of multiple nail polish bottles of Essie, I went into this with a sense of knowing based on past experiences. The application actually went fairly smooth. With only 2 coats, the nail polish was pretty opaque. Though the application was pretty good, there are still a couple of things a couple of things that I would complain about. One is that I wish the brush was a little wider, and the other is that it didn’t dry as quickly as I would have liked, causing many imperfections in the finished product.

Having always loved the variety of colors that Essie produced, it was never the application or the color that I had a problem with, it was the wearability. My past experiences have proven for Essie to only last for 4 days max. The wear went okay. It started to chip on the second day and of course went downhill from there. On the fourth day, I finally decided to remove it. Overall, Essie is a good product. Is it my favorite? No. But I’m never opposed to using it.

Final Thoughts: Having had many past experiences with most of these nail polish brands, and at least one prior experience with each brand, I had gone into this with a pretty good idea which nail polish I would find worked the best. Of all of the polishes, I would have to say that NYC was the worst of all the nail polishes I had tried. With its poor application and how quick it was to chip, there wasn’t really anything great that made up for that. The best nail polish brand had to be OPI. With its ultra-smooth application and long lasting wear, OPI was by far the best. Though it is a little expensive at $10.00, the payoff is totally worth the price. Though the Sally Hansen nail polish had its problems, at $2.99, it would definitely get the job done. At the end of the day, what worked for me may not work as well for others. Nail polish can be affected in many different ways and is not something that will always come out the same for everybody.

PAGES 8-9 || FEATURE

HELPING HANDS

THE TALON || DECEMBER 2016

RHS students discuss volunteering experience TAYLOR GARBER STAFF WRITER

NINOTCHKA VALDEZ EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

It is senior Dipra Debnath’s last year at RHS, and he is well on his way to making his mark in the community. For the past few days, he has been overseeing the clothing drive for a homeless shelter in his neighborhood. Although organizing the drive has been hectic, the stress all seems to melt away the moment he sees the faces of those he’s helping.

Volunteering has become a significant aspect in producing well-rounded students for many years. On top of succeeding academically, and participating in extracurriculars, it is also important to give back to the community. Debnath has undergone the process of seeking out opportunities, and has found Crittenton Hospital to be the best fit for him, although he continues to volunteer at food pantries and homeless shelters occasionally.

“I found it appropriate to volunteer at Crittenton because I’m interested in serving people through being a doctor later on,” Debnath said. “I go every Sunday for four hours and have [accumulated] about 480 hours since the start of sophomore year.“ Debnath is not alone in finding a place in a medical setting. Senior Jasneet Aulakh volunteers at Children’s Hospital in Detroit over the summer and during breaks.

“I was looking for hospitals with a teen volunteer program,” Aulakh said. “I liked this one because it lets me work with children specifically, which is something I am looking into as a career option from a medical standpoint.”

Some students, like junior Zahra Ahmed, have sought out consistency in places like the OPC. “Key Club suggested it, and I contacted [the OPC],” Ahmed said. “[I like] helping the older generation because they worked hard to get Rochester where it is; I wanted to give back.”

However, there are students like sophomore Ian Green who look outside of the city to give back.

“I did research on places that were requesting and accepting help,” Green said. “Grace Centers of Hope in particular have large amounts of people in their facilities each day and their group is the only one like it. There are no other large organizations in Michigan that provide care to the homeless and provide

treatment for addicts.” gratifying to have a 3rd grader say you’re making an The connection Green makes with those he is able impact on them. It’s what keeps me going.” to help has been a significant factor in deciding where The need of volunteers increases during the to dedicate his time. holidays. Places that accept volunteers, such as the “I am a big person for physical interaction Rochester Area Neighbourhood House (providing with people so I wanted a place that would do just a safety net for area citizens when they experience a that,” Green said. “Reaching and giving back to the time of financial crisis), require students to help the community was also another big one for me.” community strive.

Rochester students have a common hope to gain “Need doesn’t take a holiday, so all of the regular from volunteering. Though there is an academic services proceed as well as collections for holiday acquisition for college, a personal achievement is also gift giving programs and food baskets,” Executive reached.

Director of the Rochester Area Neighbourhood “I hope to [and have, to an extent] gain a House Kathy Losinski said. “Over 500 children in perspective of the thoughts and feelings of anyone the Rochester Area benefit who comes to a place seeking from [Rochester Area] NH help,” Debnath said. “Whether at “I hope to [and have, to an Holiday programs.” a hospital or elsewhere.”

Students like Green extent] gain a perspective of the Apart from personal gain, a who have had experience future goal is also captured from thoughts and feelings of anyone volunteering for a long time Aulakh. who comes to a place seeking share their advice on those “Volunteering there [Detroit help, whether [that is] at a hospital who are looking to get into Children’s Hospital] is nice or elsewhere.” non-profit organizations. because it helps me be exposed to “You can look online the medical environment to help at organizations locally,” me make sure this field is really Dipra Debnath, Senior Green said. “Some what I want to go into,” Aulakh organizations may be for said. “My biggest hope out of this certain seasons such as thanksgiving or Christmas experience though, is to bring some positivity and baskets etc. There are plenty of organizations within light into the lives of the patients and families at the the community where you can volunteer anytime hospital.” through the year. I can promise you that there are Certain experiences have made an impact, not only places that can use your help. There is a constant need on those who the organization is helping, but also on for volunteerism. Look for what you’re interested in the volunteers. and what your looking to get out of it. There should “One day I was reading a children’s book to a six be something for everyone.” year old girl with cancer,” Aulakh said. “After reading, During the holiday season, there is an increase I talked to her mother who told me how much her in need of volunteers for meals and presents. daughter looks forward to the readings that the Volunteering and donating make a large difference in volunteers give. The mother broke into tears saying families that need support. that she’s so happy her daughter can still find things “Around thanksgiving and Christmas, families to look forward to considering her very unfortunate have a hard time providing a meal or presents for condition.” their family,” Green said. “Additionally, during these It seems like the gratitude from children especially two months (November and December) there is an cultivates more desire to help others. increased awareness. Many people want to provide “When I was handing out toys to the younger kids their time to give the same experience that we have last Christmas at Grace Centers, it was great [to see] at home. It is a very fulfilling experience to give back, their faces and reactions to their gifts,” Green said. but at the same time there is a need year round, not “Another time was when I was asking the kids at just in these winter months. People need assistance Kensington what they got out of attending that day 24/7.” and they said how much of an impact I made showing up every week and interacting with them. It was quite

THE TALON || DECEMBER 2016

PAGE 10 || ENTERTAINMENT

WINTER MOVIE REVIEWS What to watch this holiday season ANGELA MAMMEL

KATHRYN CHATMAN

FEATURE EDITOR

STAFF WRITER

Movie: Moana Release Date: Nov. 23, 2016 Summary: Sharing a special connection with the ocean, 16-year-old Moana is constantly torn between staying on her island to fulfill her obligations as the daughter of the chief and following the strong pull of the sea to set off on a voyage that may save her people. As things continue to take a turn for the worse on her island through the emergence of rotten harvests, Moana is spurred by her grandmother to turn to the ocean and go on a journey to restore a heart-like gemstone to the mythological Polynesian goddess of life, Te Fiti. Along the way, she meets the demigod Maui, and the two traverse legions of monsters and other mythical creatures in attempt to save the Hawai’ian islands, while finding the true meanings of friendship and believing in oneself on the journey.

Pros/ Cons: Pros: Starring the talented newcomer Auli’i Cravalho as Moana and Dwayne Johnson as Maui, the two actors’ personalities and friendship clearly shine through their characters, creating an incredible movie-going experience.

Songs by Hawai’ian native Opetaia Foa’i create a rich and culturally accurate soundtrack, while Tony award-winner Lin-Manuel Miranda (Hamilton) adds his staple creative sound to the showstopping numbers of the movie.

Cons: As a Disney movie, it can tend to get cheesy at certain points, but if you see it with a little sibling or cousin and embrace your inner child, you’ll struggle to find very many negative aspects of the film.

If you liked... then you’ll like this: If you like Disney musicals, especially “Brave”or “The Little Mermaid”, you’ll love this joyful story about a strong female lead on a high-stakes quest across the ocean, and fans of Lin-Manuel Miranda’s musicals will be overjoyed to hear the voice and works of their favorite star on the big screen as opposed to the Broadway stage.

Rating: 5/5 stars Falcon’s thoughts: “I liked how the music was really similar to the music music from Hamilton since Lin-Manuel Miranda wrote it, and I especially loved the mini rap part of (Maui’s main song,) ‘You’re Welcome’. I also liked how it connected with [Polynesian] culture, because that’s not something that a lot of movies do, and it was cool to get a taste into what they believe in through a popular Disney movie.”

Brigid Lally, junior

Movie: Almost Christmas Release Date: Nov. 11, 2016 Summary: Starring Gabrielle Union, Kimberly Elise, and Danny Glover, this comedy film tells the story of a recently widowed man trying to bring his dysfunctional family together for a peaceful holiday celebration. However, this may be too much to ask for when each family member suffers with their own obstacles: one sister copes with the implications of divorce, will another is struggling to pick up the pieces of her own failing marriage: a brother deals with prescription drug addiction, while the last has to learn to balance his career and his family. Along with their own internal struggles, the siblings also cannot cease the war they have seemed to wage against each other, making it seem impossible that they will somehow reach harmony by christmas. Everyone ends up learning important lessons in self discovery, while grieving the death of their beloved mother.

Pros/ Cons: Pros:The movie was humorous because it succeeded in creating a relatable environment. Though dramatized, the family turmoil faced by the characters is not foreign to the audience, with many situations and obstacles being faced by everyday people. The movie succeeded in creating laughter in situations that are faced by regular families, including drug addiction, divorce, infidelity, and grief.

Cons: Depending on personal preferences, the crude language may be seen as a drawback to some. Mo’Nique’s character’s dialogue is especially vulgar, with practically every sentence she spoke containing an expletive. The movie was also a bit predictable, but this may be expected from a lighthearted and uplifting family film.

If you liked... then you’ll like this: Enjoying other comedic films, such as “Home for the Holidays,” and “This Christmas,” may be a sign that this might be a movie you will enjoy. In fact, comedy movies in general, such as “Step Brothers,” would be a good indicator.

Rating:3.5/5 Falcon’s thoughts: “Heartwarming christmas movies are always great to watch because they get you into the spirit of the holidays. [This movie] was really good and nice to watch or the holidays.”

Gledis Bitraj, junior

Movie: Arrival Release Date: Nov. 11, 2016 Summary: Linguist Louise Banks’ entire worldly perception is changed when alien spacecrafts land on earth. Banks leads a team of investigators as they attempt to decipher the motives behind the alien’s arrival on earth. In order to do this Banks finds a way to communicate with the creatures, a task that puts herself-and her team- in danger. After other countries succumb to anxiety over the alien’s purpose and decide to defend humankind, Banks finds herself in a race against time to prevent other nations from making a mistake that could possibly risk the safety of the world.

After a crucial self-discovery, her newfound perspective leads her to the answers she’s been searching for, while prompting a new slew of questions. This sci-fi flick, starring Oscar-nominated actress Amy Adams, shows the profound journey one woman takes as she works to save the world and, ultimately, herself.

Pros/ Cons: Pros:The cast, including Amy Adams and Jeremy Renner, was wisely chosen and delivered stellar acting to the film.

Adams’s and Renner’s portrayal of romantic interests is especially sensational, and becomes even more appreciated by the end of the film. The graphics are exceptionally brilliant, which makes up for the (arguably) ill-advised blurring of the aliens.

Cons: The main downside to this movie is Forest Whitaker’s mumble-like accent. His speech is at times so difficult to understand that the dialogue from other actors’ is needed to infer what he may have said. If not for Whitaker’s indecipherable speech, the film would have been much more comprehensible, and the motives behind certain plot points would have been clear.

If you liked... then you’ll like this: Other sci-fi films about extraterrestrial life, such as the classic “Invasion of the Bodysnatchers”, or a newer film like “10 Cloverfield Lane” Rating: 4.5\5 Falcon’s thoughts: “Amy Adams did a really great job portraying such a sophisticated and complex character. The movie was deep and profound, and her acting and delivery was a major part of made the film so good.”

Gabi Rodriguez, senior

THE TALON || DECEMBER 2016

PAGE 11 || ENTERTAINMENT

Movie: Fantastic Beasts

Movie: Doctor Strange

Release Date: Nov. 18, 2016

Release Date: Nov. 4, 2016

Summary: Set against the backdrop of 1920’s-era New York where witch hunting continues to be on the rise, this spinoff of the acclaimed Harry Potter series follows the shy and awkward British wizard Newt Scamander and his magical suitcase full of the hundreds of mythical creatures . When one of Newt’s creatures escapes and causes a scene at a local bank where a non-wizard (or “no-maj”) named Jacob witnesses everything, the two, along with a demoted Auror named Tina Goldstein and her sister Queenie, embark on a journey to return Scamander’s suitcase monsters. Simultaneously, a boy named Credence Barebone is trapped in an abusive and witch-hating home, and the Director of Magical Security Percival Graves makes a deal with him to give him a better life in exchange for his help in finding the obscurus. Through an immense amount of wild plot twists, this film provides J.K. Rowling’s trademark magic and adventure to another story in the wizarding world, leaving fans of the popular Harry Potter series overjoyed.

Pros/ Cons: Pros: The introduction through incredible cinematography of what the Harry Potter universe looks like in America, and the inclusion of statements made about Ilvermorny School of Witchcraft and Wizardry (the United States equivalent of Hogwarts), made most fans genuinely excited in learning more about this universe in other nations. Fans were delighted to see Newt’s wide plethora of magical creatures, and most were impressed with how they played into J.K. Rowling’s signature brand of action and excitement.

Cons: The only downsides to this movie include how it focused too much on the exposition and new setting of America in this beloved magical universe as opposed to plot advancement in certain scenes. While some moviegoers may be absorbed in the wonder of these sections of the movie, others may see them as useless and an effort to slow down the action.

If you liked... then you’ll like this: While this movie most directly appeals to selfproclaimed “Potterheads”, it is also sure to appeal to fans of any fantasy or science fiction franchise, such as those of “The Sorcerer’s Apprentice” or the “Divergent” series.

Rating: 5/5 stars Falcon’s thoughts: “I was holding the movie to quite high standards, but it blew them away. J.K. Rowling brought her incredible sense of character depth to Newt Scamander’s story in her screenwriting debut.”

Meridith Benson, junior

Summary: The prestigious neurosurgeon Doctor Stephen Strange is held in high demand for his seemingly miraculous procedures, until a devastating car crash rids him of most use of his hands. With his world crashing down around him, the thousands of attempts he makes to heal as quickly as possible take him to a mysterious enclave in Asia where he soon encounters a woman referred to as The Ancient One and her powers to travel between dimensions of the world.

Under her wing, Strange learns of time manipulation, the seemingly infinite alternate dimensions of the world and the dark powers led by an immortal creature named Dormammu working against her and all of the enclave’s efforts to protect the realms. While Dormammu continues to rise, Strange must use his newly-mastered techniques of intricate time and dimension distortion to fight to save the world from being completely enveloped by darkness eternally.

Pros/ Cons: Pros: The introduction of this creative new character into the Marvel universe was amazing, especially through the inclusion of the infinity stone within the plot, which will play a prevalent role in the next Avengers movie, “Infinity War”. In addition to this, the vast array of special effects depicting the mind-bending occurrences of alternate realities are incredible, even within the first five minutes of the film.

Cons: The only drawback to this film is, as the enclave Strange finds is in Asia, the role of The Ancient One was whitewashed through casting Tilda Swinton instead of an equally-talented Asian actress. Although Swinton performed admirably in the role, whitewashing occurs far too often in mainstream media, and casting this role as racially correct to the original character would have been the much better option.

If you liked... then you’ll like this: If you like classic sci-fi/ fantasy or superhero movies, this provides an incredible twist on each of the genres in a way that only Marvel studios truly can. Be sure to catch “Doctor Strange” if you liked the other Marvel spinoff movies such as “Ant-Man” or “Guardians of the Galaxy”!

Rating: 4.5/5 stars Falcon’s thoughts: “I really liked “Doctor Strange” because of the specific brand of action in the movie that can only really be found in the MCU (Marvel Cinematic Universe). Benedict Cumberbatch is one of my favorite actors, as well, and it was amazing to see two of the things I love entertainmentwise collide through his role as Stephen Strange.”

Lauren Jakobiak, junior

Other New Releases Movie: La La Land Release Date: Dec. 9, 2016 When aspiring actress Mia and jazz musican Sebastian find themselves struggling to make ends meet in L.A., they learn to find the perfect balance between their love for the spotlight and their love for each other.

Movie: Collateral Beauty Release Date: Dec. 16, 2016 When advertising executive Howard Inlet suffers a great tragedy, he writes letters to Love, Time and Death, and through their unexpected responses he finds the true meaning of life.

Movie: Rogue One Release Date: Dec. 16, 2016 In this “Star Wars” spinoff, a group of unlikely heroes make plans to steal information from the Death Star in rebellion, and the action that ensues will determine the fate of their universe.

PAGE 12 || ENTERTAINMENT

THE TALON || DECEMBER 2016

“AWAKEN, MY LOVE!”

Childish Gambino’s new album departs from his old sound in the most bizarre way ALEXA LUTTRELL STAFF WRITER

Donald Glover, more commonly known by his stage name, Childish Gambino, welcomed the month of December with a much anticipated album. “Awaken, My Love!”, Glover’s third album, made its debut on Dec. 2. Not having released new music in over two years, Glover’s fans have been waiting for what seems like forever.

Glover, who is typically referred to as a rap artist, leaves rap behind to experiment with new sounds. This new funky style has seemingly come right out of the 70s. Glover’s use of soul has certainly been an adjustment for himself, as well as his audience.

Listeners from all over are surprised by Glover’s sudden change of tune. The majority of Glover’s fans know him from his rap career, but “Awaken, My Love!” portrays more of a funk vibe. The first track, as well as the first single released, “Me and Your Mama”, introduces the album with an eerie feeling. Glover’s voice is almost unrecognizable as he practically screams over the dark, soul-filled track.

The second single released by Glover, titled “Redbone”, is much less intense. Glover steps back with a lighter, higher voice that immediately leaves the audience with a calm, relaxing feeling without destructing the ongoing 70s theme of electric guitar and funky bass. This track makes the listener feel as if they’ve traveled back in time while still maintaining lyrics relevant to present day problems such as race equality.

“Boogieman”, which is the third track on the album, also surrounds the issues of race and oppression in the African American community. Glover sings about being viewed as a villain due to the color of his skin, labeling himself as the “Boogieman”, which is a play on words. He alters the name of the famous monster, the Bogeyman, to include the word “Boogie”, a style of music that originated from the African American community. The song addresses Glover’s frustration with the issue of police brutality and discusses the comfort he finds in music.

Funk isn’t the only new sound Glover is experimenting with. “California”, the seventh song on the album, introduces a somewhat reggae style of music. Glover deepens his voice and uses an animated tone while the upbeat soundtrack behind him creates a breezy island-like feel.

The album slows down a bit towards the end with the instrumental of “The Night Me and Your Mama Met”. This song, which almost serves the purpose of a reprise to “Me and Your Mama”, continues the feeling given off in the first track. The lack of lyrics in this piece gives the listener room for the imagination as they begin to piece the story together.

The album finishes strong with the inspirational “Stand Tall”. This song leaves other topics such as love and oppression behind for motivational lyrics of self-love and positivity. Glover sings, “Keep all your dreams, keep standing tall. If you are strong you cannot fall,” something he learned from the advice of his parents while growing up. Glover encourages his listeners to learn from their mistakes and stay positive throughout their hardships.

So what happens when a rap artist releases an album with absolutely no rap? It’s bound to be controversial. For those who are more open to different types of music, this album is an incredible, almost spiritual experience. However, those of who are only comfortable in the rap

Glassnote • 2016 genre may find it a little tough to get used to. Although many different opinions have surfaced, “Awaken, My Love!” is without a doubt an interesting listen.

Rating: 4/5 stars

If you enjoyed this album, you may like...

“TALKING BOOK”

by Stevie Wonder

“TO PIMP A BUTTERFLY”

by Kendrick Lamar

If you liked the 70s aspect of “Awaken, My Love!”, you’ may enjoy “Talking Book” by Stevie Wonder, due to its slow love ballads and upbeat funk songs, straight out of the decade itself.

If you liked the more modern aspect of “Awaken, My Love!”, you may enjoy “ To Pimp A Butterfly” by Kendrick Lamar. Its inspirational, progressive lyrics discuss the importance of self confidence and how to love yourself unapologetically.

PAGE 13|| ENTERTAINMENT

THE TALON || DECEMBER 2016

FUN AND FESTIVE WINTER ACTIVITIES KATHRYN CHATMAN STAFF WRITER

Meadow Brook Hall features beautiful and festive holiday decorations. Photo by Creative Commons

Friday Night Carriage Rides Ride around Downtown Rochester in style. Located at the corner of West 4th and Main street, horsedrawn carriages are driving people around the city.

Enjoy traveling back in time to the 19th century (before the introduction of automotive vehicles) to celebrate the holiday season. The rides are sponsored by Penn Station East Coast Subs, Rochester Advanced Dentistry and DesignHaus Architecture.

They are given on a first come, first served basis, so be sure to arrive early in order to take part in this extravagant opportunity while its available. For more information, visit downtownrochestermi. com/friday-night-carriagerides.

Date: Dec. 23 Time: 6-9pm Cost: $15

Fire and Ice Festival Downtown Rochester’s famous Fire and Ice Festival is just around the corner.

With events like tube sledding, snowshoeing, dog sledding, snowboarding, ice skating and much more, the festival is sure to have something for everyone to enjoy. Accompanying these activities is the promise of great food; Tastefest offers a savory glimpse into a variety of palates through food trucks and vendors. And if you’re worried about parking, free parking and shuttle services are available in the Buffalo Wild Wings parking lot on Walton Blvd. To find out more about this, go to downtownrochestermi.com/ fire-ice-festival.

Date: Jan 20-22 Time: Jan. 20: 5-9pm

Jan. 21: 10am-9pm

Jan. 22: 9am- 5pm Cost: Free

Explore the city of Rochester via horse-drawn carriage. Photo by Creative Commons

Wacky Winter Comedy Show

Visit Santa Claus

Meadow Brook Holiday Walk

Celebrate the winter season by seeing Joel Tacey, Michigan’s Family Funnyman, at the Rochester Hills Public Library. The comedian’s show will make you “laugh until your belly hurts” with a performance including snowballs, candy canes, and hot chocolate. Relive favorite holiday and winter memories by laughing the afternoon away with your family.

Having won awards in family entertainment, Joel Tacey has performed for “hundreds of thousands of kids, teens, and families” and will produce laughs from those of all ages.

Visit the library’s website to find out more about this special event.

Date: Jan.14 Time: 3pm Cost: Free

Revive your inner child by visiting Father Christmas, who can be found at the Village of Rochester Hills. Though it may seem juvenile to the millennial generation, taking a picture with St. Nick is a holiday tradition that can never be outgrown. In fact, the origins of Santa Claus trace back to 16th century England, when Father Christmas was seen as a figure representing peace, joy, and plenty of food and wine.

There is also plenty of religious folklore with ties to the origins of St. Nick. When visiting Santa, be sure to let him know what you want for the holidays, because you might just wake up to find your largest desire sitting under your christmas tree. For more information, go to the Village of Rochester Hills’ website.

Date: Dec. 23-24 Time: Dec. 23: 2pm-8pm

Dec. 24: 10am-4pm Cost: Free

Tour the elegant rooms of Meadow Brook Hall, a mansion built by the wife of the founder of Dodge automobile company and her second husband.

Constructed in the late 1930’s, Matilda Dodge Wilson and her husband lived in the mansion for 40 years before donating their estate to Michigan State University. Decorated for the holidays, the grand ornaments and festive style adorning the Hall are sure to inspire all aspects of the christmas spirit.

Afterward, enjoy visiting Santa’s Workshop in Danny’s Cabin or visiting Knole Cottage for a “Mother Goose adventure” which are both located on the estate. More info is available at meadowbrookhall.org/ programs/holiday-walk.

Date: Through Dec. 22 Time: 11am to 5pm Cost: ADULTS: $20 per person 17 & UNDER: $5 per person

PAGE 14 || OPINION

THE TALON STAFF Adviser: Mrs. Facca Editor-in-Chief: Ninotchka Valdez Copy Editor: Lauren Alison News Editor: Carly Craig Feature Editor: Angela Mammel Lifestyles Editor: Amanda Capaldi Entertainment Editor: Makenzie Shubnell Opinion Editor: Ollie Najar Sports Editor: Lauren Karmo Design Editor: Morgan Gallagher Business Manager: Maggie Roehling Staff Staff Staff Staff Staff Staff Staff Staff Staff Staff Staff Staff Staff Staff Staff Staff Staff Staff Staff

Writer: Elizabeth Bulat Writer: Kathryn Chatman Writer: Grace Crites Writer: Christian Fend Writer: Taylor Garber Writer: Patrick Jordan Writer: Jenna Norgrove Writer: Mahnoor Rauf Writer: Chris Sandler Writer: Taylor Simmons Writer: Sara Trumza Writer: Audrey Weber Writer: Tori Wendt Writer: Mikayla Agius Writer: Talia Bowes Writer: Christopher Ipina Writer: Bianca Mow Writer: Maria Marsells Writer: Omar Daham- Mahmoud

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 || DECEMBER 2016

STAFF EDITORIAL: To Give or to Receive?

The holiday season has arrived, bringing with it the usual surrounding stress and excitement that makes it a beloved time of year. While in the midst of attempting to finish school before break with good grades and choosing the perfect gifts for friends and family, the holidays can be so hectic that some can lose the spirited feeling about this they once had as children. Especially due to the fact that what should be a time of giving thanks and visiting with family has become so heavily commercialized, it’s easy to become annoyed by this season, and often the true meaning of the season is overlooked.

While receiving can be fun, giving can be a more fulfilling experience. The holidays tend to be a difficult time for people who don’t have families or have lost contact with them. According to the Huffington Post, the midbrain region lights up when people donate to a worthy cause. This part of the brain is associated with pleasure. In fact, giving stimulates the brain, making people want to be more charitable.

The best part about giving is that it’s free. While many people’s stress results from lack of money, one of the best gifts during the holiday season is spending time with loved ones. There are many activities that cost little to no money.

Instead of going out and eating a costly dinner that includes a gift exchange, a good alternative would be to stay in and make Christmas cookies. It’s fun, and more intimate than a busy restaurant in the middle of the hectic season.

Another festive, but cheap way to celebrate the season is secret santa. Often times instead of buying everyone in your family or friend group a gift, everyone draws a name from a hat and only has to give presents to that person. The money limit could range anywhere for five to twenty dollars. It saves money, but still ensures that everyone receives a present.

The holidays are one of the most charitable times of the year. Although the season is chaotic, many still find the time and the money to buy gifts and materials for people that they don’t even know. Schools tend to have charity boxes that people can donate to. Whether it be clothes or toys, any donation is appreciated and put to good use. Churches often have a system to help the less fortunate children in the community. People can volunteer to be a family’s donor for the season and buy them necessities like clothes, but also toys.

Even if it’s not giving material goods, people can give their time and physical help. There are multiple soup kitchens around the Metro Detroit area that need volunteers. On top of that, Habitat for Humanity is an organization that is always available to give back to in multiple ways, through actually helping build homes or by working in their resale shops. It’s important to give not only wealth back, but to give time as well, because it can give people a larger perspective.

People can often take their own wealth for granted, and, especially around the holidays, it’s crucial to give back to those who are not as fortunate.

Many retirement homes have systems where people are able to come and visit the folks living there. It’s a nice way to let them know that they are loved and still important. Local libraries often have programs that allow community members to read to children. Children’s hospitals encourage members of the community to help families pay for presents. While the holidays can be stressful enough, some families have to deal with hospital bills and on top of it try to afford presents. It can be hard for parents to leave their sick child’s side. By donating gifts to them, it saves them time and money and gives them valuable time with their loved ones.

In a poll of the Talon staff, twenty eight out of thirty staff members agreed that giving was better than receiving. Giving not only helps the receivers feel good, but also the giver. It can relieve some of the stress of the holidays by leaving people with the rewarding feeling of being charitable. Everyone loves to feel good about themselves, and helping others is a great way to do that.

“It’s about giving because Christmas is a time to count your blessings and give back.”

Cris Sandler, junior

“I think the holidays are about giving because no item amounts to the amount of feeling you get when you give somebody something they really like.”

Amanda Capaldi, senior

“Charity is an integral part of society. Many aren’t fortunate enough to have all they need, especially around the holidays, so it’s up to everyone else to make sure they are okay.”

Lauren Alison, senior

PAGE 15 || SPORTS

THE TALON || DECEMBER 2016

COLLEGE-READY ATHLETES Seniors commit to play for colleges

Myers up to bat against Avondale.

Photo courtesy of Rose Myers

LAUREN KARMO SPORTS EDITOR

While acceptance letters are rolling in for many seniors, a few athletes are already committed to playing for some colleges, and have been since as early as last spring.

Seniors Maddie Halsey, Rose Myers, Demetri Pliakos and Brooke Busse have been recruited and committed to play at the college level for volleyball, softball, soccer and golf, respectively.

Myers has committed to Wayne State University and is looking to go into nursing.

“I have been interested in Wayne State’s softball program for a while, since at least freshman year,” Myers said. “My high school coach actually played there, so she helped me get into contact with the coaches and also help follow my career path, because they’re really good for medical and nursing.”

Aside from RHS athletics, Myers is also plays on a travel softball team during the summer, fall, and winter. Myers comments on how her experience at RHS specifically helped her become the

player she is.

“The softball program at Rochester has helped me step up and become a leader and help everyone around me succeed and to become better myself so I can help out my team,” Myers said.

Head Softball Coach Laura Guzman has helped Myers through the process of getting recruited and is confident in her ability to succeed at the college level.

“Rose knows what it takes to play at the next level,” Ms Guzman said.

“She’s worked hard her whole life and plays year around committing herself to get better day in and day out. I have no doubt that Rose will go in as a freshman and compete for a starting spot.”

Ms Guzman comments on how Myers leads her team to success through her positive influence.

“Rose sets the tone for our softball program. A lot of things we achieve can be contributed to her success on the field. She is a tremendous leader and captain.

The girls see how she plays the game and that is contagious for other girls to compete at a higher level.”

Both Ms Guzman and Myers

Halsey going to spike a ball at a game.

Photo courtesy of rhsfalcons.com

area’s super pretty, there’s a lot of agree that grades are the key adventurous things to do, it’s kinda to success when looking to get just me in a place.” recruited to college athletics, as Like Myers, Halsey agrees that more colleges will be interested in RHS has helped her become a recruiting. leader, on and off the court.

“Never quit and stop believing in your “Rochester abilities,” Ms has Guzman said.

“If you have a dream, don’t helped me “Know and be afraid to fail. Don’t stop become understand the athlete your true pushing for a college offer that I am talent and because you think you can’t by making have real do it. You really don’t know me really expectations until you try, and dream big.” have to of where you see yourself step up and be playing. But Lauren Duquette, volleyball you cannot the leader coach I have do any of become,” this if you do Halsey not have the said. grades and test “Because I play with different ages scores academically.” here, it’s really helped me to branch Halsey has committed to play out and become part of everyone’s volleyball at the University of experience.”

Tennessee at Chattanooga, where she is looking to study either Being a part of teams outside business or advertising. of RHS athletics, going to clinics “When I went on my visit there, and camps is a common trend I just got a feeling that I hadn’t among student-athletes who get gotten from any of the other scouted and recruited to play for places I visited,” Halsey said. “The college teams. Head volleyball

coach Lauren “Doogie” Duquette comments on how rare it is to see her players get recruited.

“You don’t really get recruited through high school volleyball at all nowadays,” Doogie said. “If you don’t play travel volleyball at a high level, you simply won’t get seen, and we don’t have a ton of girls that play club volleyball here.”

Doogie has helped Halsey through the recruiting process as well as eventually settling on which college to pick.

“My biggest fear was that her head would get lost in a big name school and that she wouldn’t get out of it that she was hoping for,” Doogie said. “More than anything, it was a conversation about what she wanted and how to find that.”

Halsey and Doogie, like Myers and Guzman, agree that hard work, ambition and persistence will lead student-athletes to the success they desire.

“Put in the work,” Doogie said.

“If you have a dream, don’t be afraid to fail. Don’t stop pushing for a college offer because you think you can’t do it. You really don’t know until you try, and dream big.”

PAGE 16 || SPORTS

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SPORTS BRIEF

THE TALON || DECEMBER 2016

CAPTAIN’S QUOTES

“Well we have a lot of young talent support from the sophomores and juniors and we have better leadership this year than last.”

Paul Leo, Wrestling Captain

“My favorite thing about my teammates is that I can talk to them outside of cheer and no matter what we go through at practice, they can always make me laugh.”

“I want to win a league championship and also a district championship.”

Hunter Schattler, Basketball Captain

Zy Turner, Cheer Captain

“Our greatest strengths are that we each have a specific role to team and have different skill sets that we bring to the team.”

Paola Barazza, Basketball Captain

UNITED FIGURE SKATING

All three high schools compete together at the Onyx These girls are not just the average athletes; many have been skating for many SPORTS EDITOR years prior to high school and are part of As winter sports become the focus of multiple groups, not just the united team. school spirit, many students are unaware

Taylor elaborates on the of all the sports commitment and effort sponsored by required to become a RHS, including figure skater compared the united figure “Everyone is really nice to that of another sport. skating team. The and we’re all supportive “Figure skating team is composed of each other.

When you isn’t a sport where of skaters from all you can wake up and go out, everyone starts three high schools decide to do, you have clapping and we try to get and they practice to be seriously trained,” and perform at the whoever’s out there alone to Taylor said.

Onyx. There are four feel comfortable and happy Many of these girls RHS girls on the about it.” have started skating at team: senior Nellierae as young as four years McCaslin, juniors old, and it is a central Morgan Michaux Nellierae McCaslin, Senior part of their lives. and Emily Taylor, McCaslin comments on and sophomore how the bond formed Julia Mleczek. As the girls are preparing over the shared love of the sport supersedes for competitions, their efforts go largely the differences the girls might have. unnoticed by the community.

“Everyone is really nice and we’re all “It’s only at the rink where it’s really supportive of each other,” McCaslin said. showcased,” McCaslin said. “We’re still “When you go out, everyone starts clapping considered a club, not a real sports team, to and we try to get whoever’s out there alone some people, and there isn’t many Rochester to feel comfortable and happy about it.” kids on the team, it’s mostly Stoney and

LAUREN KARMO

Mleczek (far left), McCaslin (far right) and Taylor (middle right) pose with teammates from Adams and Stoney Creek. Photo courtesy of Nellierae McCaslin.

Adams.”