October issue 2015

THE

TALON ROCHESTER HILLS, MICH. // OCTOBER 2015 // VOL. 78 ISSUE 1 Junior Jessie Carl stars as Millie Dillimount and sophomore Julian Karagunis stars as Jimmy Smith in the upcoming RATS production, “Thoroughly Modern Millie,” which hits the stage Nov. 19-22. For more great musical coverage, check out Pages 8-9.

Photo by Maggie Roehling

PAGE 2 // NEWS

THE TALON // OCTOBER 2015

NEWS BRIEFS 5.

3. Map of West Nile cases in the U.S. in 2015

Photo by Mstyslav Chernov, Courtesy of Creative Commons

4.

Photo by United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Courtesy of Creative Commons

Photo by Michael Vadon, Courtesy of Creative Commons

1. RHS The Falcon Marching Band recently participated in the District 16 MSBOA Festival, where they were awarded straight ones from all three judges, the highest award a band can receive at Festival.

“It was awesome and unexpected because we all thought we were going to get a two, so when they said we got a one that made it great,” junior Leslie King said.

Each year, the band students speculate whether their performance will be awarded a one, a tradition the band has held for many years. King confirms she and fellow students were not as confident in their performance this year as they have been in the past.

“A lot of the freshmen were kinda struggle-busing,” King said. “So we were sure we were going to get a two, but then we got a one so it was cool.”

King explained how the Festival performance was very important to the band to show off their skills.

“We don’t have anymore home games,” King said. “So it felt like this was our last chance for people to see how great our show is.”

Brief by Lauren Karmo

2. RCS Voters living within the Rochester Community Schools district will vote on Nov. 3 on whether or not to pass a $186 million dollar technology bond at no tax increase to citizens.

“Things like the state of our building need to be repaired, such as heating and cooling,” senior Ellen Wegener said. “People are constantly complaining about a classroom being too hot or too cold; if the bond passes these issues can be reduced.”

The technology and infrastructure would be brought up to date. The bond can be used for new laptops and desktops to secure network devices and increase reliability.

“We have all experienced a class where the technology is out of date or something does not work,” Wegener said. “It is distracting and difficult to get through a lesson.”

Specifically at RHS, athletic facilities over the years have been worn down.

“The track is totally destroyed and can no longer be used to race,” Wegener said. “This is another issue that will be given attention.”

Brief by Bailey Boerman

3. MICHIGAN In September, an 81-year-old woman in Oakland County was one of the 54 West Nile deaths in America this year.

“Mosquitoes become infected by West Nile when they feed on infected birds,” Infectious Diseases expert at the University of Chicago Dr. Jessica Ridgway said. “Then they can spread the virus to people or other animals.”

Dr. Ridgway says that this virus is rarely lethal.

“Less than one percent of patients become very seriously ill with a brain infection,” she said.

Unfortunately, there is no current treatment for the West Nile Virus.

“People with West Nile virus infection can take medications to treat their pain, reduce their fever and relieve other symptoms,” Dr. Ridgway said.

There are precautions that people can take to avoid getting West Nile.

“The best way for people to protect themselves is to avoid mosquito bites by using mosquito repellent and wearing long sleeves,” Dr. Ridgway said.

“As the weather gets colder and there are fewer mosquitoes, the risk of West Nile will also decrease.”

Brief by Bilal Ibrahim

4. USA Junior Taylor Garber was glued to her screen on Tuesday, Oct. 13 as the Democratic Party presidential hopefuls debated for a national audience on CNN. “The candidates basically agreed with each other and that’s always a good thing ,” Garber said. “There was no fighting, and it was easy to keep track of them, unlike the Republican debate where there were so many.”

Garber hopes Bernie Sanders will beat Hillary Clinton and the other Democratic candidates.

“Bernie Sanders will win the Democratic nomination because he is very involved with solving problems on a domestic level, and not on a national level,” Garber said. “He was very educated and had amazing facts and stats to help people socially.”

Garber is wary about who will win the Republican nomination.

“I think Jeb Bush will win as the Republican candidate. I don’t want a Republican to win [the presidency] because they are supported by large PACs,” Garber said. “Plus, George Bush was flawed in handling [Hurricane] Katrina and 9/11, so the family isn’t to be trusted.”

Brief by Carly Craig

5. WORLD Syrian sophomore Salaheddin Jackouch has been enjoying his new life in America. He has seen positive changes in his freedoms already.

“In Syria, if we talked bad about the government, we would get kidnapped and tortured,” Jackouch said. “My uncle actually experienced that when he voiced his complaints.”

The Syrian refugee crisis has played a big role in Jackouch’s life.

“It is very tough to deal with,” Jackouch said. “However, I can’t do anything about it other than pray for my family in Syria.”

Jackouch appreciates his life in Michigan, and has taken offense to those who don’t stand up for the pledge.

“Other countries don’t have the ability to make that choice, and here in America, we have the right to do anything we choose to,” Jackouch said.

Jackouch feels very comfortable here as well.

“The streets are definitely cleaner here,” Jackouch said.

“I feel a lot more comfortable; I enjoy the opportunities here more than I did in Syria.”

Brief by Hussein Murray

PAGE 3 // NEWS

THE TALON // OCTOBER 2015

MAYORAL ELECTION

Three candidates vie for Rochester Hills residents’ votes CONNOR BULKA STAFF WRITER

On Tues., Nov. 3, residents of Rochester Hills will be voting for mayor. Two names will be on the ballot, Ravi Yalamanchi and Jim Steven. In addition, current mayor Bryan Barnett has been actively pushing Rochester Hills’ first-ever write-in campaign, the only way he can be elected after serving two terms.

Yalamanchi has been heavily involved in this city’s government for quite some time, but he’s finally decided to run for the open seat for mayor.

For almost a year now, Yalamanchi has been working towards his goal of helping the community reach new heights. He has made Election signs line the streets as the election approaches. himself known already with his two years Photo by Connor Bulka of experience in city council. Yalamanchi expresses his intentions when he decided to run for the mayor of Rochester Hills. really poor planning and poor leadership that much on the influence of everyday people to “Public service, to me, means community caused that.” keep the community running smoothly. service,” Ravi said. “I truly wanted to He continues about how he came to “We all have to somehow get engaged communicate some of my personal thought the decision of running for mayor. With in the community and give back to the processes of what the office of mayor should his many years on city council, Yalamanchi community in any way we can,” Yalamanchi do. I believe strongly a candidate should bring became very passionate about the work he said. “I bring a very in-depth experience, to the office values such as honesty, trust, was doing with the community of Rochester which I hope that will contribute to the transparency and integrity.”

Hills. After finishing his terms on the council, betterment of the community.

Jim Stevens, one of Yalamanchi’s Yalamanchi describes how he began to Opposing candidate and current mayor, competitors told the Oakland Press that he consider running for mayor.

Bryan Barnett said in the Oakland Press would push for a clean and well-maintained “Some of the things I’ve been advocating that since things are going well in Rochester, community, giving his own time, as opposed and some of the things I felt we shouldn’t change is unnecessary. to asking for community be doing happened; I “I feel very, very confident in our ability convergence. think that it’s more of a to be successful,” Barnett said. “Things are “We all have to “The biggest change I disappointment,” Yalamanchi going well. People aren’t looking for change somehow get would make is keeping our said. “That’s what I’m working just for the sake of change.” city wonderful and I will hard to do and those are Yalamanchi says he thinks that some engaged in the make myself available to all some of the issues I want to things do need to be changed. community and residents seven days a week address. I strongly felt because “I don’t support oil drilling in our city,” give back to the and, after (office) hours, my it’s an open seat I said I’m Yalamanchi said. “Potholes on roads will be community in any going to try it, and given the phone will be on,” Stevens fixed in a very timely manner. I plan to have said. option, there are some things sheriff ’s deputies patrol the neighborhoods to way we can.”

Yalamanchi explains I would like to do with the keep crime out.”

-Ravi Yalamanchi, that there are many things community.”

As of right now, Yalamanchi believes it’s mayoral candidate wrong with the way the city Sophomore Elizabeth anyone’s game. With two qualified candidates ///////////////////////////////////// Kowalczyk shares her interests and the potential for a write-in, he hopes that has been run in past years.

He explains that certain for a mayoral candidate. She residents do their research and make their issues weren’t efficiently explains what she would opinions known on Nov. 3. communicated to the council or the residents expect and like her mayor to deliver to their In addition, Yalamanchi said he’s very of Rochester Hills. Yalamanchi believes many residents. thankful for the support that the community of the actions and difficulties, including the “I’d really like for the mayor to continue and volunteers have contributed to help him recent oil drilling in Rochester Hills, could the safety,” Kowalczyk said. ”It would be get where he is today. have been more in the hands of the citizens good for them to be from Rochester Hills “In terms of how the race is going, it’s instead of government leaders. because they already know the community.” anybody’s guess work here,” Yalamanchi said.

“Let’s make the residents number one,” Yalamanchi says his views on how he “I think I have a lot of volunteers who come Yalamanchi said. “We wasted five years in wants the local government to run are very out to support and help in many different the budget of 911. We could have saved the dependent on citizens wants for their own ways, and that’s truly just a great feeling to residents almost four million dollars. It was community. His personal agenda focuses have that. In that regard it’s truly amazing.”

KNOW YOUR CANDIDATES Bryan Barnett • Current mayor of Rochester Hills • Rochester Hills’ first writein candidate

Jim Stevens • Against oil residential oil drilling • Wants criminals put to work for the better of the communtity

Ravi Yalamanchi • In favor of keeping a green environment • Agiainst residential oil drilling

PAGES 4-5 // NEWS

PLANNED PARENTHOOD: THE DEBATE TO DEFUND THE ORGANIZATION CONTINUES JULIA LABBAN NEWS EDITOR

Photo Courtesy of Charlotte Cooper

SERVICES BY THE NUMBERS Planned Parenthood’s Mission Statement: A Reason for Being

STD/STI TESTING AND TREATMENT 42% ABORTION SERVICES 3% CONTRACEPTION 34% OTHER SERVICES 1% OTHER WOMEN’S HEALTH SERVICES 11% CANCER SCREENING AND PREVENTION 9% Source: plannedparenthood.org

◊ To provide comprehensive reproductive and complementary health care services in settings which preserve and protect the essential privacy and rights of each individual ◊ To advocate public policies which guarantee these rights and ensure access to such services ◊ To provide educational programs which enhance understanding of individual and societal implications of human sexuality ◊ To promote research and the advancement of technology in reproductive health care and encourage understanding of their inherent bioethical, behavioral, and social implications

THE TALON // OCTOBER 2015 On July 14, videos surfaced allegedly proving be defunded because people need access to that Planned Parenthood has been profiting off contraceptives and the ability to control whether of fetal tissue, which is illegal. The organization or not a woman wishes to be pregnant. would counter that the videos were edited out “I think it should not be defunded because of context, the tissue is saved and sent to stem everyone should have a right to decide whether cell research organizations with the patient’s or not they want to have a child,” Stevens said. authorization and that fees are for the cost of Kaakarli believes that people want to defund storage and transportation only. the organization for religious reasons.

Another part of the argument centers around “People want our government to stop funding Planned Parenthood’s claim that only three Planned Parenthood, usually because of religious percent of its patients are there for abortions, motivation,” Kaakarli said. “I think they are which seems to be the largest reason for the pro-life supporters and are offended by Planned defund movement, while others argue that the Parenthood’s abortion services.” way Planned Parenthood operates its books Kaakarli also thinks that the separation of masques the fact that 40 percent of those church and state needs to be considered. serviced at the organization are abortion-related.

“Even though I definitely do not agree with it, This heated debate has lead many I can understand why someone can disagree with conservative leaning politicians to attempt to abortions,” Kaakarli said. “However, because our defund the organization entirely, which receives nation is based on the foundation that there is a around $500 million a year in state and federal division between church and state, I think that dollars. None of this money is used on abortion this is a situation that requires people to set aside services, which is documented in Planned their personal opinions to better the community Parenthood’s thorough, yearly public financial as a whole. reports.

“For instance, if I were in a situation where I Senior Deena Vittiglio would consider having an thinks that people want to abortion, even at sixteen “It infuriates me that defund the organization I would choose not to when people hear Planned because they are being [have an abortion,] but Parenthood, the first dishonest about abortion rates just because that’s what I thing that they think of is because they itemize singular would choose what to do items for visits like a yearly with my body, that does ‘abortion’ and not ‘health exam for a woman, which not give me the right to care.’” includes up to 14 different force any other person to Mariam Kaalkarli, 11 aspects, but bundle abortion do that with their body,” items into one to make the /////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// Kaakarli said. “We do numbers appear that there are not and should not fewer abortions performed have the ability to make than the community would like to believe. decisions for other people’s bodies.”

“I think one reason people would want to Stevens agrees that people would want to defund Planned Parenthood is not based on defund it for religious reasons. religion but the fact that they’re lying about their “I believe people do it because they believe actual rate of abortion to cover up the moral fetuses have the right to live,” Cole said. “People insecurities their organization holds,” Vittiglio shouldn’t force their beliefs on others.” said. “Ultimately, I think most people who aren’t On the other hand, Vittiglio thinks that the religious that want to defund it wish to do so videos that were released over the summer because the organization lies.” proved that Planned Parenthood has been Junior Mariam Kaakarli thinks that Planned mishandling fetal tissue, posing ethical questions.

Parenthood shouldn’t be defunded based on “I do believe the videos proving Planned a political argument that fails to address the Parenthood profits from fetal tissue sale because importance of the services provided. there are multiple videos with multiple different “Planned Parenthood shouldn’t be defunded people at different locations who all share a because they provide so many services other than similar story,” Vittiglio said. “There’s no way that abortions,” Kaakarli said. “They cover so much, all of these stories are coincidentally the same.” from basic sex education to STD treatment, to Stevens disagrees and thinks that the videos aftercare. The organization is so important to were edited to make Planned Parenthood seem help people make informed decisions, and if untrustworthy. necessary, help them through the process of “I think the videos were manipulated because, pregnancy.” if it’s illegal, then I don’t think they would do Junior Cole Stevens agrees that it shouldn’t that, being an organization in the public eye,”

Stevens said. “I don’t think they would go through the trouble and do something illegal and profit off of fetal tissue.”

Kaakarli thinks that the other services the organization provides are important.

“It infuriates me that when people hear Planned Parenthood, the first thing that they think of is ‘abortion’ and not ‘health care,’ because all of the services it provides, not just abortion, are necessary and important,” Kaakarli said. “Planned Parenthood covers treatment and information on STD’s; cervical, ovarian, prostate and breast cancers; as well as providing options for birth control. Planned Parenthood has always made it clear that abstinence is an option, and never resorts to abortions if it not necessary.”

Vittiglio also thinks that the services are important, even though she is strongly opposed to abortion.

“I believe that there are very many things that Planned Parenthood does that are beneficial to a great number of people; they offer free health screenings for some people who can’t afford it,” Vittiglio said. “This is good because everyone deserves health care no matter their financial status or the reason the care is needed.”

Vittiglio also thinks that people wouldn’t really be affected if Planned Parenthood was defunded.

“I don’t think underprivileged people will be affected by the defunding of Planned Parenthood because there are many other facilities and organizations who offer free health care to low-income patients that don’t offer abortion as an option or perform abortions as a service,” Vittiglio said.

Kaakarli disagrees and thinks that people of all ages and circumstances rely on services provided by Planned Parenthood.

“A classmate might need a breast cancer mammogram, a soccer mom might need menopause treatment to help ease symptoms, a student might need information on sex education further than what is provided at school before they make a decision impacting their sex life, and then be denied the help they all need,” Kaakarli said. “Whether you like it or not, even if it does not impact you directly, Planned Parenthood is impacting your community in a positive and educational way.”

Vittiglio thinks that there are other ways for these people to seek help for their health treatment.

“I think there definitely is a negative stigma that goes along with the people who go to Planned Parenthood because of the fact that they offer such a morally debated issue,” Vittiglio said. “This could be avoided by going to other facilities or organizations that don’t offer abortions.”

PAGE 6 // NEWS

THE TALON //OCTOBER 2015

KIM DAVIS

County clerk refuses to grant marriage licenses to gay couples AMANDA CAPALDI LIFESTYLES EDITOR

Kim Davis, a county clerk from the state of Kentucky, repeatedly refused to grant gay couples marriage licenses based on religious reasons. Due to her actions, she was arrested for violating the Supreme Court law. She was placed in contempt by U.S. District Court Judge David Bunning, who said she would only be released after she agreed to abide by the Supreme Court ruling which allows samesex couples to marry. Davis has been very prominent in the media.

Senior Kyle Hemphill believes that Davis did the right thing.

“I believe she was in the right because that’s what she believes and doesn’t think gay marriage is okay,” Hemphill said. “She has a choice and chose not to grant them their licenses because she didn’t believe it was right.”

Junior Taylor Garber disagrees with Davis’ choice of actions. She believes Davis bringing religion into her government job was unacceptable.

“She was wrong in what she did because, first of all it’s okay to be gay, second of all it’s the law that gay marriage is legal so your opinion and religious beliefs shouldn’t interfere with the law,” Garber said. “There is a distinction or line between church and state and she crossed that line; she brought religion into the constitutional rights.”

Senior Jamil Haddad believes her fate should be that she shouldn’t be punished for sticking to her beliefs and morals and should be free to do as she pleases, but he doesn’t believe this will be the fate she receives.

“She should keep her job and keep doing what she does not compromising what she believes in because the supreme court says so. She can plead her fifth amendment to remain silent instead of wedding two of the same sex couples,” Haddad said. “Though, I believe that this sick, deformed country will send her back to jail.”

Software engineer Gina Meno believes that due to Davis not doing everything her job entailed, Davis shouldn’t be able to keep the job.

“She is not meeting the requirements of her job as directed,” Meno said. “She should be removed from that position and given a job where she can and will fulfill the requirements.”

Haddad believes Davis’ reasoning for doing what she did is sufficient enough to avoid any retribution because she stuck to

In KY., county clerk Kim Davis served five days in jail for refusing to distribute gay marriage licenses on account of her Christian beliefs. Photo Courtesy of Carter County Detention Center. what she stuck to her principles.

“I do see her reasoning but it is not “It was right [denying gay people their equatable enough to avoid jail time,” Sriram marriage licenses] because she did what she said. “She’s basically picking and choosing believed in,” Haddad said. “However, it is what laws she wants to follow and which laws up to the court to decide she doesn’t and if everybody what to do with her, only did that it would just lead the “I think Kim Davis God knows.” country into a mess.” should have nothing Davis’ reasoning for Senior Mathew Thiesen doing what she did was believes that Davis’ reasoning put against her that refusing the marriage for her actions is sufficient because she has her licenses was innate to enough to avoid jail time. rights to believe in her her, saying, “I didn't “She shouldn’t be penalized own decisions and have to think about it for believing in her own religion.” ... there was no choice religion,” Thiesen said. “I there.” She did not budge think Kim Davis should have Matthew Thiesen, 12 on her statements that nothing put against her because ///////////////////////////////////////////////////////// “marriage is between one she has her rights to believe man and one woman.” in her own decisions and When asked if she had the “ability to believe religion.” marriage is anything else,” she replied, “no.”

If Garber were put in Davis’ situation, she Junior Mrudula Sriram believes that says she would respond differently.

Davis’ reasoning for how she behaved wasn’t “If I was in her position I would put enough to avoid discipline. my morals aside and stand up for the law,”

Garber said. “You must follow the law even if it doesn’t follow your personal beliefs.”

Hemphill, if put in her position would have done the same thing as Davis.

“If I was in her shoes I wouldn’t have given them or granted them their licenses either,” Hemphill said. “It’s not all about religious reasons; it’s about what I believe is morally right. Whether you believe in God or not, there are two types of us, man and woman.”

Science teacher Mrs. Erin Slomka, said she would stick to the law and follow the guidelines of her job, no matter what, if put in Davis’ place.

“I see things in a very black and white way regarding situations like this,” Mrs. Slomka said. “I feel that if it was required by law and I was a civil servant of the law, then I would have to do what the law mandated.

If I could not complete my job based on my moral code, I would have to resign.”

NOVEMBER PAGE 7 //2013FEATURE

FEATURE I THE TALON // OCTOBER 2015

SOLDIERS OF FORTUNE LEADERS TELL ALL

NICK DRINKARD

COLE GLASPIE

JORDAN WALLACE

GABE COLLINS

TREVOR SZAFRAN

Last year I went to all of the events, I was very active, so last year’s SOF chose me to be a leader.

I got hype, they got hype, Mr. DeLuca likes hype people.

I was voted on by the SOF leaders of the previous year.

My favorite part is to get super loud and obnoxious and have it be socially exceptable.

Being with my friends on the track during the games.

Setting up for the games and planning and just everything leading up to the big day.

Having really awesome tailgates and trying to get as many people in our student section as possible.

We hope to get more followers on Twitter and do things at the games that make us known, so more people come.

We got a lot more people involved with Twitter this year, so they can see a lot of what is going on.

I love to mow the lawn because it’s relaxing. I like getting some sweet tea and playing country music.

I like to swim because it is not only is a workout, but it relaxes me at times and keeps me in shape. I like to cook because I like food.

When someone tweeted that all SOF leaders are hicks, I kind of agree with that. We all like going fishing and doing redneck stuff.

There is nothing I haven’t told them; those guys are my brothers.

I want to tell Cole Glaspie that we are SOF leaders, not just one leader.

HOW DID YOU GET INVOLVED IN SOF? Sophomore year my buddies were the leaders who I knew through hockey, so I just decided to go to the games and get involved.

Jordan Wallace was picked by Kush, who was the leader last year, and wanted me to become apart of the SOF, so I accepted.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART OF SOF? I am really loud, really proud and have lots of school spirit. My favorite part is having an excuse to be very

I really want to get everyone hyped up for the games and have a lot of fun.

HOW DO YOU PLAN ON INCLUDING MORE STUDENTS AT RHS? We have to promote it. Tailgates are a really big thing; bring food and people come.

I would like to have all the games announced over the video announcements.

WHAT’S A FUN FACT WE SHOULD KNOW ABOUT YOU? I like to fish and play hockey because when I’m doing one of the two, nothing bothers me and my mind is clear.

I like to play hockey because I was born into the sport; my dad played hockey and before I could walk I was on skates. It’s more than a sport; it’s a lifestyle for me.

WHAT IS SOMETHING YOU HAVE NEVER TOLD ANOTHER SOF MEMBER? I am a pretty open book. I play hockey with two of them, but they know me head to toe.

They are like my brothers.

We have been bonding over since school started.

BY PAIGE RADMAN, STAFF WRITER

I need to come up with a good one … I love Trevor.

PAGES 8-9 // SPREAD

STARRING JUNIOR JESSIE CARL AS MILLIE Q: How long have you been involved in theatre?

A: I started the summer before 6th grade in summer music theatre, which is a program through Rochester Community Schools. It started off just as something to do over the summer, and I really have never stopped ever since.

Q: Is theatre just for fun for you or do you plan on pursuing in the future?

A: For a long time I was like “Do I want to pursue this?” because everyone was saying it was a really risky thing to do. Then I realized that whenever I am not in a show I’m bored and I don’t know what to do with myself. I feel like if I don’t try to pursue it I will regret it.

Q: What do you like best about theatre and this show specifically?

A: What I like best is the people, they are so amazing. You have a special bond with the people in your cast because when you’re all singing together, it’s just a feeling I can’t describe. This show specifically I love that it is so classic Broadway. It’s got an overture, which is when the band plays before the curtain opens, and then the classic opening scene with Millie in New York.

Q: Do you relate to your character? If so, how?

A: I do! She’s really quirky and klutzy, but she has lots of moxy and sass, and I feel that’s the same as me in those ways. She’s also a genuinely kind person, and she sticks to her gut. Millie is a gogetter and I feel I have the same attitude towards a lot of things.

Q: Have you ever tapped before?

A: I have not. I heard the show was Millie and I went “Oh God, I don’t know how to tap.” I’m known for faking my way through dancing; I make it look like I’m doing it right, but I have no technique whatsoever. I really wanted the role of Millie, so I talked to my parents and had them sign me up for tap lessons starting in July. So I have never tapped before, but I’m faking my way through it.

Q: What extra responsibilities does a lead have?

A: Lines, first of all. Just to memorize them all and make sure the story continues to go, because if you forget a line and it’s an important line, then it gets really awkward and the audience gets really confused. But you also have to take good care of yourself while at the same time taking care of everyone else, and make sure everyone feels welcome and that they are just as much a part of the show as you are.

Q: Why should students come see this show?

A: Compared to other shows that everyone knows, you don’t know Millie unless you know Broadway. But the show has such an amazing message — that you should love someone for who they are and not for how much money they have — and I think the message is why people should come see this show.

THE TALON // OCTOBER 2015

LIFE AS A LEAD

STARRING SOPHOMORE JULIAN KARAGOUNIS AS JIMMY Q: Have you ever had a lead role before? If so, what shows?

A: I have had lead roles before, last year in “Grease” I played Doody, and then for our spring play, “Amateurs,” I was this fat guy called Ernie.

Q: Is theatre just a fun thing for you, or do you plan to pursue it in the future?

A: Theatre is something I do for fun, but I am planning to pursue theatre for my professional career.

Q: What made you want to get involved in theatre?

A: I fell in love with [theatre] when I was a kid. I loved singing and acting and dancing and getting to be someone I wasn’t, and it was just so much fun.

Q: What has you be a good choice for this role?

A: I think what makes me good is that my voice really fits Jimmy; I have a strong voice. I took summer classes for tap [to get ready for the role], and I’ve been acting for years now.

Q: What do you think it takes to be a good lead?

A: It takes a lot of commitment and dedication. Being a lead is a lot of work, and it’s harder than you think it’s going to be.

Q: Do you feel more pressure as a lead?

A: I do. If I don’t know my lines, if I’m not there, than scenes can get really messed up and it’s like a huge domino effect. It’s a lot of responsibility to memorize all the lines, get every move down, and make it perfect so that the show will be as amazing as it can be.

Q: Do you relate to your character? If so, how?

A: I’m actually really different from my character. The character is a guy who likes going around sleeping with a lot of different women; he does not like to stay with one woman at a time, he doesn’t believe in true love. Jimmy [his character] had a really rough childhood and I’d like to think I’ve had a pretty good one. And Jimmy’s rich and I’m OK. Q: Is it harder to keep up with schoolwork as a lead?

A: Oh yes. Keeping up with schoolwork is a big, big, one. Especially with dance rehearsals when we go until 8, the only time I get to do homework is when I get home. It’s really hard finding time because you are so exhausted from rehearsals that you just want to sleep, and you’re really sleep deprived because you are staying up all night. But being a lead is definitely worth it. It’s a lot of fun, and you have such a great time. Even though being in the chorus is also really fun, it’s just a different experience as a lead.

Photo by Lauren Karmo

The cast practices choreography during rehearsal. Photo by Angela Mammel

‘Thoroughly Modern Millie’

The RATS bring the roaring twenties to the stage

LAUREN KARMO & ANGELA MAMMEL STAFF WRITERS

The Rochester Alliance of Theatrical Students (RATS) is well underway in rehearsals for their fall musical, “Thoroughly Modern Millie.” The show centers around the comedic love life of Millie Dillimount and Jimmy Smith, set against the backdrop of the 1920’s. It differs from Rochester’s past shows, such as “Grease” and “In the Heights,” and will provide an unforgettable experience to all involved and for the viewing audience as well.

Selecting the musical each year is always a long process. However, the way that “Millie” is different from the modern musicals recently performed at RHS and how it fits the group of students auditioning made it stick out to director Frank Gollon.

“When we were looking at titles, this is one that really leaped out at us because it had a ton of girl’s roles and we’re always very heavy with girls auditioning,” Mr. Gollon said. “It’s a very popular show with great music and in it and it harkens back to the big grand musicals of yesteryear.”

Vocal director Ms. Menzies is

very excited about the show and is looking forward to seeing how the classical style of it exposes different sides of the performers. She loves the amount of dance in the musical, and thinks it will add even more fun to the cast’s experience.

“This show is definitely very 1920’s, very hustle-bustle and highpower dance and it’s going to bring out a different side of some of the kids,” Mrs. Menzies said. “We’re hoping to integrate a lot of dance and fun into the process, especially when everyone’s on stage.”

The amount of tap dancing involved in this production presents many challenges to inexperienced students. Although this style of dance takes them out of their comfort zones, many, like Junior Jessie Carl, embrace the challenge and opportunity to grow as a performer.

“I’m probably most excited for the tapping,” Carl said. “I’ve just started taking tap classes and I’m getting by, but I’m really excited to learn specific tap numbers and run them and perform them in front of people.”

Sophomore Julian Karagounis is also facing a challenge with this performance. His character Jimmy marks the first male lead he has played in a show, and his

role has a very unique personality, with the kids and to see their growth presenting him with many challenges throughout the process,” Mrs. to overcome. Although this may Menzies said. “[I’m] hoping the kids intimidate some, the sophomore is really grow and bond and get a great thrilled to shine as this character. sense of community by being a part “Jimmy is the first male lead that of a theatre family.”

I’ve ever had,” Karagounis said. “But Carl has been a part of seven playing him will be really fun with all shows with RATS, and she agrees the dancing that the family formed and the by the cast members “The people in this add to the process of feel of the show. Jimmy cast, specifically, are being in a musical, is a new very determined and creating a wonderful personality experience overall. supportive of each and character She is very excited to other and that sets that I have be working with this us apart from others.” group of people and not played yet and that anticipates the positive -Julian Karagounis, 10 pushes the occurrences this new ///////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// limits of show will bring. my comfort “You form a zone.” huge family with Mrs. Menzies is also facing a first all the people that you’re with, and through this production: although experiencing the same emotions and she has participated in many RATS theatre around all the time,” Carl said. musicals, mainly as keyboardist, “When you’re in the show, there’s “Millie” marks her debut as a vocal a special bond that you make with director for the fall show. She is people that you can’t get in other thrilled to have this new position, as places.” it offers her an experience where she Karagounis cherishes the special will be able to see the development connections created with the people of the cast and the show. in the cast. He admires his very “It’s fun to really be a part of driven cast mates in “Millie,” and is everything, and to get hands-on excited to see what bonds will be built

during rehearsals and what a great product will come out of the hard work everyone puts in.

“The people in this theatre program are special,” Karagounis said. “We all want to put on the best show so we’re all putting everything into it. The people in this cast specifically are very determined and supportive of each other and that sets us apart from others.”

Mr. Gollon also loves the family that is created by being in shows, and he is excited to go through all of the same emotions with the students throughout the process and into opening night. He anticipates that all of the students in the cast will love the rushes of emotion that come with opening a show.

“The students that have done [RATS shows] in the past see that... it is a lot of hard work, but there’s no other feeling like it when you’re there opening night,” Mr. Gollon said. “[You’re] behind the curtain, waiting for it to open and you can hear the audience out there waiting.

The first few bars of the overture start; the adrenaline’s pumping and the butterflies going, and once that curtain opens and the lights go on it’s just a great experience.”

PAGE 8 // FEATURE

THE TALON // OCTOBER 2015

Members of the drumline from left to right Edward Azzam, Reid Williams and Mitchell Pleune play a stand cheer. Photo by Lauren Karmo

MARCHING BAND

Mr. Uhrig brings direction, purpose to the band family LAUREN KARMO STAFF WRITER

Junior drum major Cameron Page determinedly conducts the Falcon Marching Band in a famous MSU stand cheer to fire up the crowd in the second quarter of the homecoming game. He is assisted by band director Mr. David A. Uhrig, who advises him and the other drum majors, senior Lawrence Latouf and junior Audrey Bevacqua, on how to lead the band during rehearsals and performances.

Last year, Mr. Uhrig was hired to take over as the director of bands at RHS and this will be his first full year. He has taken over the program and implemented changes that initially some were hesitant about, but now seem to understand his mission, according to Page.

“He’s improved the overall tone of the band,” Page said. “There’s something about him that the students will follow -- he’s a great leader. He’s a friend and a teacher, which is really great, especially for a music teacher.”

Mr. Uhrig thinks the main improvement this year is the students’ approach to being a part of the band as a whole.

“There’s a more positive attitude to all the things we’re doing and a general excitement about everything that’s been happening,” Mr. Uhrig said. “When I came last year, it seemed like there was a lot of turmoil because of

“The only thing holding us back is all the different changes between the band people’s attitudes,” Page said. “We need to directors which I get would be frustrating so have happy people; we need to have excited I think with a little consistency, everyone’s people. That’s the only thing holding us back. excited, everyone has good attitude and If people aren’t happy and excited, they’re is working really hard, and we’re making progress throughout the weeks and through not gonna do well. You need to want change practice everyday.” to get better; if you don’t want change you’re According to Mr. Uhrig, having a good not going to have growth.” attitude and enthusiasm is important in the At the beginning of the season, Mr. band to get good results. He also thinks Uhrig made a few changes in the way the that students keep marching band ran each other and himself rehearsals and how “There’s always challegning motivated and help each they marched which things for the band to do and caused controversy other to have fun. they always have the potential between veteran “Everyday, whether it’s six a.m. and I already to keep growing and get better members who were used to the ways of got up at five and I’m so I really think the sky’s the the previous director, tired, I’m dragging, I limit for them.”

Mr. Timothy just get rejuvenated Mr. David Urhig, band director Nadeau, who led the after doing marching band because it’s /////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// band for seven years.

“It’s actually kind exciting and they’re of neat to hear about fired up almost all the time to do things,” Mr. all the traditions the band already had in Uhrig said. “The games place,” Mr. Uhrig said. “[We] either tweak are fun for what we’re doing -- creating them a little bit and improve them or to keep excitement for the audience and entertaining. them as they were.”

They have a good time doing that and it’s The band still upholds the traditions it has really fun to be a part of that.” had for years past, despite the changes made.

Page confirms that being enthusiastic “Traditionally speaking, there’s a lot of about the band affects their success, not things that we are still keeping, the ones just in material victories such as metals and people say have changed, in my opinion, have plaques, but in the development of the changed for the better,” Page said. program.

Senior Lily Suau, drumline section leader and percussionist in Wind Ensemble, brings up how Mr. Uhrig changed the overall learning experience for the students.

“The amount of rigor is a lot different this year,” Suau said. “Last year, we felt like we hardly had to do anything, so we would goof off in class all the time and now we have a set pattern, we have a schedule, everything like that Mr. Uhrig has high hopes in terms of success for the band. He believes the students have improved a lot over the course of the season and will only get better from here.

“As the band and students meet expectations, I’m just going to push them a little bit further and say ‘alright we’re gonna raise the bar. Now you’ve come here, now I think we can do this,’” Mr. Uhrig said.

“There’s always challenging things for the band to do and they always have the potential to keep growing and get better so I really think the sky’s the limit for them.”

PAGE 11 // LIFESTYLES

THE TALON // OCTOBER 2015

Sophomore Enrique Diaz-Gomez is from Spain.

Junior Asaka Higuchi is from Japan.

Junior Carmen Kuestner is from Germany.

Freshman Pia Neuman is from Germany.

Junior Daniela Pacheco Paiva is from Brazil.

Sophomore Consuela Simson is from Suriname.

FOREIGN EXCHANGE STUDENTS

Bring the global perspective to the Falcon community OLLIE NAJAR & SARA TRUMZA STAFF WRITERS

Sophomore Enrique Diaz-Gomez sits quietly in his first hour classroom, looking around the room, attempting to translate all of the English posters and directions into Spanish. His mind is always working, trying to keep up his teachers, peers and assignments — constantly playing the translation game.

“It’s a little difficult to understand my teachers sometimes,” Diaz-Gomez said. “But I like it here a lot. My host family is really nice.”

Every year, many teenagers from across the world travel to the U.S. as foreign exchange students in search of a unique learning experience and a chance to immerse themselves in an English-speaking culture. This year, seven students from around the globe are wandering the halls of RHS, staying with host families throughout the school year.

Enrique Diaz-Gomez is a sophomore from Sevilla, Spain, staying with the Benedettini’s, a family that has been involved in the exchange program before with his older brother Santi.

While he is loving the United States, Diaz-Gomez is also in the process of adapting to the new environment.

In addition to struggling with language and cultural barriers, foreign exchange students often say they miss their families. WhatsApp is a free texting service and Skype is a free video conversation site that many of these students use to communicate with their families internationally.

Consuela Simson is a sophomore from Suriname, a small country in South America on the top of Brazil. Her purpose for coming to the United States was mostly for the education.

“I came to the U.S. because I earned a scholarship and I wanted to expand my knowledge of the English language,” Simson said. “I want to eventually study at a higher level and I really think this opportunity will help me get there.”

Many of the other students agree with Simson, stating a unique experience. However, for freshman Pia Neuman, their main reason for traveling away from their families was to traveling from Germany to the U.S. was not her first learn and expand their views. Special education teacher, Mr. experience in an exchange program.

Marius Achim, feels coming to America made an immense “I did an exchange in France for six months,” Neuman difference in his life. said. “It was very different for me, like the U.S.; the food “When they say America is the land of opportunity, it was different and I lived by the sea. I went there without any really is,” Mr. Achim said. “I feel like I’m living the American knowledge of the culture and language.”

Dream; I would have never gotten the opportunities I got Neuman says, by the end of her term in France, she was here in Romania.” fluent in French and accustomed to the environment.

Mr. Achim moved to the U.S. with his family when he was “France is closer to the United States than it is to 9-years-old, so he says he can relate to the exchange students Germany.” Pia explains. “The houses are bigger with on some level. swimming pools and bigger cities.”

“It was extremely different adapting to a new culture,” Mr. Some differences about school in the U.S. were surprising, Achim said. “It took me about two to three small things that one would not years to truly learn the language.” necessarily think about.

“People said it wasn’t going One difference that junior Carmen Daniela Paiva, a junior, originally to be like the movies, I didn’t Kuestner says she’s noticed between America moved to Michigan in 2008 with know what to expect, but when and her home country, Germany, is size. her family, then returned to Brazil.

I arrived, it was exactly like the “It is so much bigger here than in She enjoyed Michigan so much she movies, the houses are like doll Germany,” junior Carmen Kuestner says. returned by herself for one year, and houses with the flowers in the “There are so many people and so much described some changes between the front.” movement.” schools in Brazil and in Michigan.

Consuela Simson, 10 Mr. Achim echoes the sentiment that “The teachers change rooms, not ////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// America can look and feel totally different you” Paiva said. “And in Brazil we from many other countries. don’t have lockers, we carry our stuff “It was extremely different from what I had been used to everywhere.” my whole life,” Mr. Achim said. “Everything was going to Those differences among others made high school in the change.”

United States distinctive for Daniela.

Consuela Simson was not sure what to believe about the Mr. Achim thinks the exchange students are fortunate to U.S. before she visited. experience life in America at RHS. “People said it wasn’t going to be like the movies, I didn’t “I like it here better because it is the ‘land of the free and know what to expect,” Simson said. “but when I arrived it brave’ and there’s many opportunities,” Mr. Achim said. was exactly like the movies, the houses are like doll houses “I like it here because the people are so welcoming and with the flowers in the front.” nice,” Diaz Gomez said. “I enjoy the culture of the U.S. and It was Consuela Simson’s first time traveling and it was my host family.”

PAGE 12 // LIFESTYLES

STITCH FIX

Online clothing service tailored to taste, budget & style BAILEY BOERMAN

ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR A new online subscription and personal shopping service is becoming an alternative to shopping in stores. Stitch Fix is a personal styling service tailored to one’s taste, budget and lifestyle.

“Shopping can be frustrating and I wanted to see what it would be like to have someone pick things for me that I might not pick for myself,” Adams English teacher Mrs. Jean Bolinger said. “I have a tendency to buy the same thing over and over, so I thought I’d be a little adventurous.”

The founder and CEO, Katrina Lake, says she is passionate about helping women achieve everyday confidence and helping women who just don’t have the extra time to spend at the mall.

“I am one of the busiest people I know,” English and journalism teacher Mrs. Julia Satterthwaite said. “I teach, run a newspaper, I am a mom to two rowdy little boys, serve on state and national journalism organizations, tutor and occasionally get time to hang out with my wonderful husband. The fact that I don’t have time to shop makes me sad, so it was a nice transition to Stitch Fix.” Social studies teacher Ms. Sarah Monroe received a white dress with black lace, a striped knit The packages Stitch Fix sends are called sweater and a plaid flannel in her latest fix. fixes. The fix can be arranged to come every the customer clothing according to the couple weeks to every couple months. It information they provide when signing up. A always contains five items, from cocktail Pinterest board can also be connected to an dresses to lounge clothes and accessories. account to assist a stylist.

“I received my first box on Sept. 23 and “It will often bring really liked all five items,” me into a different style Mrs. Satterthwaite said.

“Waiting for the which is fun,” science “If you buy them all you shipment to come in the teacher Mrs. Erin Slomka get a discount, but I just mail is like Christmas said. “Sometimes they couldn’t justify a $227 morning becuase you send you hot pink empire purchase, so I decided to waist dresses that look purchase a brown leather don’t know what is like curtains and you crossover bag and a pair of inside.” think, ‘what the heck?!’” skinny jeans.”

The monthly package is a fun surprise for Although Stitch Although there are Ms. Monroe, teacher social studies teacher Ms. Sarah Monroe.

Fix brings customers positive aspects, there are //////////////////////////////////////////////////////// out of their comfort many drawbacks that keep zones when it comes customers waiting in busy to clothing, social studies teacher Ms. Sarah lines at department stores for products of the Monroe enjoys the unknown aspect. same quality.

“Usually when I go shopping, I tend to “Despite my efforts to show them things pick all the same items up because I have a that I like, the stylists I have had don’t seem pretty fixed taste on clothes,” Ms. Monroe to get me,” Mrs. Bolinger said. “I got a lot of said. “With Stitch Fix, I try on items that I clothes that are just not my style — not even would have never chosen off the rack myself. close — and those that were my style were Usually the items are things I’ve never seen just okay. I bought one thing out of three in stores either. Waiting for the shipment to boxes. I have never worn it and the tag is still A style guide comes with each fix with come in the mail is like Christmas morning on.” samples outfits. All photos by Sarah Monroe because you don’t know what is inside.”

The stylists do their best to send

THE TALON // OCTOBER 2015

THE

TALON ONLINE

ABOUT SCHOOL:

*#1 RANKED GIRLS GOLF TEAM * TECHNOLOGY BOND PROPOSAL EDUCATION PROCESS CONTINUES FOR NOV. 3 ELECTION *CHAMBER CHOIR PARTICIPATES IN STAR SPANGLED CHOIR CONTEST AND PREPARES FOR COLLAGE CONCERT

ABOUT YOU:

* STUDENTS DISCUSS THEIR STRESS LEVELS *TOMMY HAWES USES A KICK SCOOTER FOR TRANSPORTATION * STUDENTS AND AN ORTHODONTIST DISCUSS THE PROS AND CONS OF BRACES VS. INVISALIGN

USE THIS QR CODE OR HEAD TO ROCHESTERTALON.COM FOR MORE GREAT CONTENT:

PAGE 13 // ENTERTAINMENT

THE TALON // OCTOBER 2015

Alessia Cara dropped her first album, “Four Pink Walls,” on Aug. 28, 2015. Photo by Makenzie Shubnell

ALESSIA CARA

The up and coming pop and R&B artist drops new EP MAKENZIE SHUBNELL STAFF WRITER

The beanie-loving vocalist known as Alessia Cara has recently released the five-song EP “Four Pink Walls.” She started her career as a cover artist on YouTube after learning how to play the guitar at 10, and is now becoming more popular among teen listeners. Fresh to the music scene, Cara recently signed with Def Jam Recordings in 2015. Her smooth voice fits perfectly with her R&B sound, and “Four Pink Walls” displays the newly-found talent that is Alessia Cara.

The five song extended playlist is an insight into Cara’s style, and displays her vocal range along with her ability to write relatable song lyrics. The song “Here,” also known as her claim to fame, is an anthem dedicated to those who would rather spend their night in bed as opposed to going out. The smooth rhythm and unique sound make it unlike any of the other songs on the EP, and it perfectly describes the mindset of an introvert in the

crowded party atmosphere. The song is fronted by Cara’s breathy tone and is backed with a subtle piano, creating the effortless sophistication of her sound.

“Seventeen” is a perfect representation of what it feels like to await the day one turns, well, seventeen. The song opens the album, and it grabs the listener as this party-worthy song is upbeat and energetic, with fun melodies that set the playful tone of the song. The message embodies what every naive teen feels before they’re old enough to face all of life’s real problems, and tells listeners to take time being young before they turn the magic age of seventeen.

Finger-snapping and hip swaying come to mind when “Outlaws” comes on shuffle. The slow, pianotrumpet combo in addition to Cara’s silky voice makes for quite the power ballad. The song is about having someone’s back until the very end, through thick and thin, and taking on whatever life throws your way. Whether this song was written about a significant other or even a best friend, it relates to

so many people, causing it to be a popular favorite among listeners.

“I’m Yours” has a style comparable to the singer Tove Lo or even Ariana Grande, with a pop beat and slower melody. Within the lyrics are embedded with the meaning of giving second chances and forgiving those who have hurt you, making it a common bond between herself and her many young followers who can easily relate to the singer’s experiences.

The hip-hop inspired song, “Four Pink Walls” closes the album with a 90s beat and modern vocals. The song is about Cara’s rise to fame and how her life just happened to work out exactly how her younger self imagined when she wanted more for herself that the ‘four pink walls’ of the room she grew up in.

Complete with smooth vocals, fun beats and relatable topics, the EP “Four Pink Walls” is quite the breakthrough for Alessia Cara.

With the talent she possesses and her loyal fanbase to support her, she can expect a lot of success following the release of her first album.

IF YOU LIKE CARA, YOU’LL LOVE ...

1) Bruno Mars: “Unorthodox Jukebox”

2) Meghan Trainor: “Title”

3) Shawn Mendes: 4) Elle King: “Handwritten” “Love Stuff”

PAGE 12 // LIFESTYLES

STITCH FIX

Online clothing service tailored to taste, budget & style BAILEY BOERMAN

ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR A new online subscription and personal shopping service is becoming an alternative to shopping in stores. Stitch Fix is a personal styling service tailored to one’s taste, budget and lifestyle.

“Shopping can be frustrating and I wanted to see what it would be like to have someone pick things for me that I might not pick for myself,” Adams English teacher Mrs. Jean Bolinger said. “I have a tendency to buy the same thing over and over, so I thought I’d be a little adventurous.”

The founder and CEO, Katrina Lake, says she is passionate about helping women achieve everyday confidence and helping women who just don’t have the extra time to spend at the mall.

“I am one of the busiest people I know,” English and journalism teacher Mrs. Julia Satterthwaite said. “I teach, run a newspaper, I am a mom to two rowdy little boys, serve on state and national journalism organizations, tutor and occasionally get time to hang out with my wonderful husband. The fact that I don’t have time to shop makes me sad, so it was a nice transition to Stitch Fix.” Social studies teacher Ms. Sarah Monroe received a white dress with black lace, a striped knit The packages Stitch Fix sends are called sweater and a plaid flannel in her latest fix. fixes. The fix can be arranged to come every the customer clothing according to the couple weeks to every couple months. It information they provide when signing up. A always contains five items, from cocktail Pinterest board can also be connected to an dresses to lounge clothes and accessories. account to assist a stylist.

“I received my first box on Sept. 23 and “It will often bring really liked all five items,” me into a different style Mrs. Satterthwaite said.

“Waiting for the which is fun,” science “If you buy them all you shipment to come in the teacher Mrs. Erin Slomka get a discount, but I just mail is like Christmas said. “Sometimes they couldn’t justify a $227 morning becuase you send you hot pink empire purchase, so I decided to waist dresses that look purchase a brown leather don’t know what is like curtains and you crossover bag and a pair of inside.” think, ‘what the heck?!’” skinny jeans.”

The monthly package is a fun surprise for Although Stitch Although there are Ms. Monroe, teacher social studies teacher Ms. Sarah Monroe.

Fix brings customers positive aspects, there are //////////////////////////////////////////////////////// out of their comfort many drawbacks that keep zones when it comes customers waiting in busy to clothing, social studies teacher Ms. Sarah lines at department stores for products of the Monroe enjoys the unknown aspect. same quality.

“Usually when I go shopping, I tend to “Despite my efforts to show them things pick all the same items up because I have a that I like, the stylists I have had don’t seem pretty fixed taste on clothes,” Ms. Monroe to get me,” Mrs. Bolinger said. “I got a lot of said. “With Stitch Fix, I try on items that I clothes that are just not my style — not even would have never chosen off the rack myself. close — and those that were my style were Usually the items are things I’ve never seen just okay. I bought one thing out of three in stores either. Waiting for the shipment to boxes. I have never worn it and the tag is still A style guide comes with each fix with come in the mail is like Christmas morning on.” samples outfits. All photos by Sarah Monroe because you don’t know what is inside.”

The stylists do their best to send

THE TALON // OCTOBER 2015

THE

TALON ONLINE

ABOUT SCHOOL:

*#1 RANKED GIRLS GOLF TEAM * TECHNOLOGY BOND PROPOSAL EDUCATION PROCESS CONTINUES FOR NOV. 3 ELECTION *CHAMBER CHOIR PARTICIPATES IN STAR SPANGLED CHOIR CONTEST AND PREPARES FOR COLLAGE CONCERT

ABOUT YOU:

* STUDENTS DISCUSS THEIR STRESS LEVELS *TOMMY HAWES USES A KICK SCOOTER FOR TRANSPORTATION * STUDENTS AND AN ORTHODONTIST DISCUSS THE PROS AND CONS OF BRACES VS. INVISALIGN

USE THIS QR CODE OR HEAD TO ROCHESTERTALON.COM FOR MORE GREAT CONTENT:

PAGE 15 // OPINION

THE TALON // OCTOBER 2015

Vote yes on Nov. 3 JACOB LORENZO STAFF WRITER

Too hot in first hour. Too cold in second hour. Too humid in third hour, and so on and so forth. On Tues., Nov. 3, Rochester Community School District residents will vote on the technology bond proposal and whether or not to extend the current tax rate to fund technology updates, renovate crumbling infrastructure and improve school safety. The current plan will include improvements to all educational facilities in the school district and will touch the lives of every single student.

Voting on the technology bond is essential.

One of the most important aspects of the bond proposal is the improvement to the indoor air quality.

Students will finally get their wish of having a more manageable room temperature in the classrooms. With the air quality upgraded, students won’t have to worry about the classes being too hot or too cold, so they can focus on learning. Not only will the temperature be ideal, but the new mechanical equipment will bring in

fresher, outside air into the classrooms.

The Environmental Protection Agency has shown evidence that if room temperatures can be held at 68 degrees, it will positively affect student concentration.

In addition to new mechanical systems, the bond will also provide new electrical systems and technology equipment. This will bring the latest technology and will provide improved educational opportunities for students.

Pages will load faster than the current three to four minutes, computers and printers will be updated and the clock and bell system will actually be accurate.

In a world driven by technology, it’s important that students get experience at the high school level to be able to compete in the global market.

The best part about the bond issue is that the overall look and feel of the building will be improved. The plan calls for the classrooms to be refreshed and for broken, dilapidated desks and chairs to be replaced. With newer looking classrooms, students will take greater pride in their school building.

Think about it like a new pair of shoes, the most important thing is to not get them dirty when they are new. This

means students will want to keep the school looking clean once the building looks updated and they will be excited about coming to school to learn.

Some say school improvements don’t lead to better learning. They believe Rochester can make due as is in order to decrease the taxes when the current bond is up; however, these updates are needed immediately.

Research has shown that there is a link between school environment and student achievement. In a recent survey by the EPA, 80 percent of teachers agreed that an improved school environment would help the learning process. The healthier and more comfortable students feel in a classroom, the better they are able to learn.

Better school facilities equals increased learning and better test scores.

Increased learning and test scores leads to better opportunity for scholarships and future employment. All students want to have that feeling of excitement to come to school and be ready to learn. It’s important for all students of the Rochester Community Schools that the people who live in the Rochester area get out to vote on Nov. 3.

iBoss filters hinder learning STEPHEN KADDIS STAFF WRITER

Restrictions, restrictions everywhere.

The school computers and wifi use iboss, a web gateway that “protects” students from seeing certain flagged content, to block access to many sites, but it is an ineffective educational practice. Having iboss and other internet securities restricts the freedom to surf the web and hinders the learning process.

The use of school wifi is a death sentence -- nothing can be done.

Although usually students shouldn’t be on their phones, when one needs to check his or her Twitter and/or Instagram in school the wifi denies certain actions. When wifi fails, using one’s data is the last resort, and the overage towards the end of the month is not making many parents’ wallets happy. Data is used so often with not

enough gigabytes, that many tend to go over without knowing. When someone has no access to wifi, it causes him or her to flip the wifi off, and the meter starts running.

Secondly, the security programs block websites that are not harmful to students. “The criteria to restrict a site is not fully known by stakeholders at Rochester,” business teacher Mrs. Karen Malsbury said. “For example, I am not sure why Facebook is blocked but Twitter is acceptable?” The school system focuses on the negatives of apps and websites like Facebook. These websites could have been used to help inform the students of events.

In addition, when one is doing research for a project, those sites are often blocked. If one’s looking into the evolution of hip-hop music for his or her senior research project or the impact of human trafficking for the LA10 presentation, he or she will not get far if working at school, resulting in getting behind in one of the the biggest

projects of the year. Stopping students from getting the information they need puts them at a huge disadvantage.

Some people say that restricting the computers is to protect students.

Although this is true, it blocks useful websites that teachers use to teach students. The small edgy advertisement on the page can cause a website to be blocked. Also, some say the wifi security blocks websites and apps that could be seen as harmful, but it’s costing families a fortune and who’s to say that kids aren’t using those “harmful” apps the minute they leave campus?

Students are restricted because of internet security and the internet blocks need to be lifted. The daily struggle is getting work done online without getting blocked. The wifi and internet blocks apps and websites that can improve the learning experience.

Rochester Community Schools should seriously reconsider the way they filter information for students.

Rubio is our guy MARIA BROECKER OPINION EDITOR

With the skyrocketing ratings the Fox and CNN Republican Party presidential debates received, and the resignation of House Speaker John Boehner and front-runner replacement Kevin McCarthy’s decision not to pick up the torch, the Grand Old Party has been on par with reality TV celebrities in the newsmaking business.

However, the guy who’s going to rise above the circus and get things done is Marco Rubio.

While Marco Rubio is considered ‘Mr. No Political Experience’ because he is just a Florida Senator rather than a governor or life-long politician, look at his toughest competition. Ben Carson is a neurosurgeon. Carly Fiorina is a CEO. Trump is the president of his corporation. The people are hoping for new blood, and Rubio has just the right of know-how in the political realm to deliver.

Another hotly-contested topic is that of immigration; Rubio thinks it’s unfair for immigrants to illegally come into the nation while those who are doing it right and have been waiting for 15 years to get their citizenship still haven’t. His points are simple and effective: tighten border control and either put immigrants on a path to citizenship or send them back home.

Rubio’s foreign policy plan includes reinstituting America’s role as world leader and stopping the expansion of nations that are going overstepping.

This includes imposing strict sanctions on Russia as they try to expand their rule into Syria. By staking an aggressive approach, America will be seen as more of a threat rather than a ‘walk-all-over friend’ like President Barack Obama has made America seem.

When considering the economy, Rubio supports the flat tax, which is a constant tax rate or per household or individual. This way the taxing of Americans will be evenly spread out and consistently fair, instead of the wealthier classes paying the bulk of it. It will support working, middle class families instead of eliminating them, as Obama seems to have done through raising taxes to support new and unnecessary welfare programs.

Carly Fiorina is another candidate at the top of the polls who takes a different approach to foreign policy. Fiorina feels because she is a world traveler and served on intelligence boards, she understands how the world works, but that does not mean she understands foreign policy. Having knowledge of issues going on in the world is one matter, but understanding how to approach these problems is totally different. This is just one example that proves her inexperience, making her incapable for the job.

On the other hand, many support Donald Trump, currently number one in most polls, because of his brash statements and the success of his own organization. They find his honest approach refreshing in a field of candidates who sound like political puppets. But is running America like a business what we really want and need? It may sound appealing to bring in a businessman to decrease our nation’s debt, but the presidency involves so many other issues in addition to the economy.

Doctor Ben Carson is making his way to the top three candidates.

His occupation gives people confidence of his brilliant mind, and he has encouraging plans for this nation, but does not have the experience to run our nation. For instance, he wants to cut every agency by 10 percent. Although this is a fair approach, it doesn’t take into consideration that not all agencies are equally important, so they really must be looked at on a case-by-case basis. Understanding what agencies need increased spending to continue the prospering of our nation is a matter Carson isn’t experienced to grasp.

Some claim that the public hopes to continue to promote diversity in the ever-changing American population, which is part of why Barack Obama was able to win the election twice. Marco Rubio would be able to make history if elected as the first Latino president.

Marco Rubio takes bold stances has well-thought-out plans to back it up. America needs someone new, young and with a different outlook on the political arena. Someone who doesn’t owe favors to corporations. Someone who America can trust. Rubio is our guy.

PAGE 16 // SPORTS

THE TALON // OCTOBER 2015

Despite the concussion hype, football will stand the test of time HUSSEIN MURRAY STAFF WRITER

Sophomore Keri Yang follows through her swing at Great Oaks Country Club during the Rochester Invitational. Photo Courtesy of Keri Yang

GIRLS’ GOLF

Finishes as runner-up at States ZAHRA AHMED STAFF WRITER

Junior Veronica Haque walks onto the teeing ground with confidence.

As she places the golf ball on the tee, her heart leaps with excitement for the match she’s about to win.

“I golf all year round so I’m generally prepared for anything,” Haque said.

This season has been a very successful one for Haque, as she was named MIPrepZone Athlete of the Week, broke a school record and helped the girls golf team in winning the OAA Red League Championship as well as Regionals. At the Division I State Tournament on Oct. 1617, the Lady Falcons tied for first with Traverse City West but lost the tiebreaker, placing runner-up for State Champion.

“I couldn’t be more proud of the girls,” coach Jeff Haney said. “For them to go for two days and play as tough as they did, it was an incredible job.”

Walking into the season, the team determined four aims: to win their League, the Oakland County Championship, Regionals and State Championship. “[We] accomplished a lot and our performance at regionals and states was definitely the best that we could play,” junior Brooke Busse said.

Haque agrees about the team’s execution this year.

“I am very proud of our accomplishments this season,” Haque

and we are a winning team,” junior said. “We definitely fought our hardest Brooke Busse said. “We had great at regionals and states and because of mental toughness, we’re very positive that the outcome was amazing.” and we just had fun together.”

Freshman Tori Hawkins believes Junior and captain Erika Yang there was a reason the team did well at agrees that their mindset has played a states. big role.

“We came focused, prepared, “Our mental toughness has gotten worked hard and we stayed solid,” much stronger Hawkins said. and we are a “I’m extremely “This was the first time that different team proud about that.” this team was at the state from last year,” However, their success didn’t finals together and it’s a very Yang said. “We come easily. The different feeling than playing want to win every tournament we team dealt with a in a normal tournament.” play and when we lot as they strove are not playing to reach their Veronica Haque, 11 our greatest we potential.

“The weather /////////////////////////////////////////////////// find a way to make it work.” was not the best.

Hawkins sees It was windy something similar contributing to the and cold and it rained, snowed, and team’s performance. sleeted,” said Hawkins.

“One of the most prominent The Lady Falcons faced more factors of success the team has is the hurdles than the natural causes of way we support each other,” Hawkins weather. Haque was the only one on said. “We never shoot one another the team that had previous experience down if something is up, we give at States. constructive criticism towards each “This was the first time that this other.” team was at the state finals together All of this year’s team will come and it’s a very different feeling than back to play next year, and has a return playing in a normal tournament,” to states in sight for their future. Yang Haque said. “It was our first time and is satisfied with the team’s work this the pressure was at a higher level.” season and is looking forward to next The team placed in all of their year. tournaments, winning first in seven “Our season was full of out of their ten and had a dual match accomplishments. We dominated the record of 5-1. Team chemistry and tournaments we played and it turned commitment has been a major aspect out to be an amazing season.” Yang in their achievements. said. “I can’t wait to capture the state “My favorite part of being on the team is that we all get along very well title next year.”

Will Smith is starring in the upcoming film, “Concussion.” The movie explains forensic pathologist Bennet Omalu’s struggle to get his alarming research on concussions and brain damage out to the public but is being suppressed by the NFL. This topic of concussions has appeared all over the United States in talk shows, sports shows and in daily household conversations. However, most of these concussion discussions revolve around one sport: American football.

The hard-hitting sport has reached new heights in participation, spiking to 1,088,158 high school players across the country in 2013.

Football has become the front-runner in terms of popularity amongst other sports in America, with NFL football being voted as America’s favorite sport, with a total of 35 percent of sports fans saying they enjoyed it the most.

However, the negatives of concussions and injuries in general that come with the rough and tumble sport can cause kids to lose weeks of physical activity and days of school. Parents are beginning to pull out their kids from football.

Unfortunately, with the rise in concussion awareness and injury prevention, rules have come into place that are disabling the ability of players to actually play defense. For instance, the controversial targeting penalty, where players immediately are ejected upon hitting a player with the crown of their helmet.

NFL players, especially defensive backs, despise the new rules. Players are calling out the NFL for terrible officiating and rulings that have ruined team’s seasons.

The controversial side of the NFL also hurts football’s reputation.

The domestic violence scandals, the Washington Redskins’ name and Deflategate are all major issues that pertain to the NFL. As more rules come into play and more families withdraw from the sport, how will the NFL, or football, live on. Will it?

Yes, it will.

No matter what, this sport will still own a day of the week. No matter the supposed corruption of the NFL, and no matter the injuries, there will always be people who will want to watch and/or play the sport.

The NFL generates massive amounts of revenue and it simply is the most powerful sports corporation in the country. Even though the office seems like a mess, not many people really care about the NFL’s mishaps .

No matter the controversy, no matter the hatred of Roger Goodell, the sport will dominate the country in 20 years.

The people who are afraid of the sport’s injuries should understand that they don’t necessarily have to care about the sport. Those who play it should understand the warranted risk, and be able to accept the reality of that risk.

Most households spend their time watching NFL football on Sundays, Mondays and Thursdays. Who can forget the Super Bowl? Even if there are people who don’t care for football, we still get the people who say, “Oh I just watch it for the commercials.”

Who can forget college football? The Playoff, rivalries and top 25-matchups are phenomenal spectacles to watch. They won’t be leaving anytime soon.

Football is just too popular, and no matter what, people will still be waking up to watch the NFL games. Even the dreaded Detroit Losers, oh, Lions. Sorry.