THE
TALON ROCHESTER HILLS, MI // OCTOBER 2018 // VOL. 81 ISSUE 1
The three core values of Rochester High School are Character, Acievement, and Tradition. Read pages 6 and 15 to explore the history of RHS’s traditions and their relevance today.
PAGE 2 || NEWS
THE TALON || OCTOBER 2018
NEWS BRIEFS: 3.
2.
Photo courtesy of Creative Commons.
Photo by Javionna Davis.
1. RHS On Oct. 5, RHS students participated in a career exploration day around the community. Buisness teacher Mrs. Karen Malsbury helped organize the event. “The Authentic Career Experience is a job shadow opportunity for students to go out for a full day to a business organization they are interested in,” Mrs. Malsbury said. Students had the opportunity to go to a workplace and shadow an employee who worked there for the day. The students who went received a glance into some fields they might be looking to go into in the future. “The careers they went into were medicine, engineering, business, human services and health services,” Mrs. Malsbury said. “We actually had 27 companies [take part].” Sophomore Josh Murawski was pleased with the event. “Berkley screw company was very welcoming to my group,” Murawski said. “The second we walked in they treated us like family, and their staff was some of the nicest people I’ve ever met.”
Brief by Collin Kilpatrick and staff
4. 4.
2. RCS RCS’s Battle Of The Books (BOTB) contest will be returning for its second year. Students can help their school receive points toward the contest by signing up at rcsbattleofthebooks.com. “Last year was our first year doing the Battle of the Books program in the RCS district, and I think, for our first year, it was a success,” Battle of the Books District Chair Heather Meloche said. “I think, for our first year, we got 90 students to participate by reading or nominating books, and 45 students participated in our Battle Night, which was a blast.” To take part, sudents simply need to read one of the Battle of the Books novel selections. For each book a student reads, he or she will earn a raffle ticket for the Battle Night raffle prizes. “Our raffle last year was HUGE, with local companies like Lululemon, Moosejaw, Eddie Bauer, Emagine, South Street Skate Shop and a ton of others donating prizes for us to give away,” Meloche said.
Brief by Javionna Davis
Photo courtesy of Creative Commons.
3. STATE Rising mortgages in Michigan are causing housing prices to increase. The department of Housing and Urban Development granted Michigan 3.2 million dollars to help people find and keep their homes. Sarah Koike, Associate Broker at Keller Williams, has watched as the prices of houses rise across Michigan. “Over the last five years, we have seen the average price per square foot be around 105 dollars in Rochester,” Koike said. “Presently it is about 145 dollars [per] square foot.” Koike says the trend for the lack of available houses is due to construction for new homes slowing down tremendously. “We have seen a drop in available housing to first time home buyers, which negatively affects the market,” Koike said. “The millennial generation demand for housing will continue to grow as it has over the last five years as well.”
Brief by M. Conner Arsenault
4. Country On Oct. 6, Brett Kavanaugh was confirmed to the Supreme Court of the United States after weeks of controversy as a result of sexual assault allegations brought against him by Dr. Christine Blasey Ford. These allegations made Justice Kavanaugh’s confirmation process different from those of other recently-appointed justices. “I think it is different because of all the media publicity he got,” government teacher Mr. Larry Adams said. Both Blasey Ford and Kavanaugh testified in a Senate Judiciary Committee Hearing regarding the allegations, leading the Senate Judiciary Committee to call for another FBI investigation days before Kavanaugh was to be voted onto the Supreme Court. Kavanaugh’s supporters said the timeliness of Dr. Ford’s allegations made her story less believable. Ford’s supporters argued that the timing of the allegations did not matter, and that the F.B.I. investigation was not thorough. Some felt Kavanaugh showed too much partisanship during his testimony before the Sentate Judiciary Committee. “I think his beliefs towards his party are going to affect his decisions,” sophomore Nathan Nakkapalli said. “If the Republicans propose something, he’s going to support that.” Brief by Sharan Shibu
5. WORLD On Oct. 14, Bavaria had an election to determine the composition of its Landtag (legislature), which saw right-wing forces represented by Alternative for Germany continue to gain ground. “The party that got even more of an increase in proportional votes is AFD,” said German teacher Mr. Brady Crites. “They are a far-right populist party, very anti-immigrant, anti-Islam, some have even said it’s a xenophobic and racist party in its principles.” In addition to the surge of support for AFD, both of the main centrist parties, the left-leaning Social Democratic Party and the right-leaning Christian Social Union, saw drops in support. “CSU is the Christian Democratic Union’s sister party, but most people lump them together,” Mr. Crites said. “CSU still got the highest proportion of the votes but dropped by over 10 percent compared to the last election in 2013.” One party besides AFD that saw its support increase was the Greens, who rose from third-party status to CSU’s primary opposition in the Baravarian Landtag with 17.5 percent of the vote. “The Green party had an 8.9 percent increase,” Mr. Crites said. “That may be because of changing attitudes on climate change with politicians and people taking it more seriously than in the last election in 2013.” Brief by Noah Peterson
PAGE 3 || NEWS
THE TALON || OCTOBER 2018
Former RCS Superintendent Dr. Szhultz meets with students in the new building. Photo courtesy of Lori Grein.
Sensory rooms, rocking chairs and handweights are available in the new activity room. Photo by Wyatt Anness.
ACE BUILDING EXPANDED AND RENAMED RCS developes Dr. John M Schultz Education Center WYATT ANNESS STAFF WRITER
Rochester Community Schools has expanded onto the Alternative Center for Education, adding thirty thousand square feet and renaming the building, which is located at John R Road and School Road, from ACE to the new John M. Schultz Educational Campus, after Dr. John M. Schultz, the former superintendent from 1983 to 2005. The new addition contains multiple programs, such as English as a Second Language, an adult education program, an alternative high school and the Adult Transitional Program. Before the Schultz Educational Building was developed, these programs were not all located in one central building and were spread out across locations in the district. “It’s a very innovative building,” RCS Superintendent Dr. Robert Shaner said. “In a lot of places programs would be housed in separate places. We can use the building more effectiently and bring unique programs together under one roof.” Students are also excited about the new Schultz Educational Building. “[The building] is great,” Adult Trasition Progam student Elise Ecker said. “It’s a really big building. Our old building was really small. We couldn’t find our way around. There were a lot of high school kids
so we were a lot older.” “[The classrooms] allow special The Schultz Educational Center education students to learn how to be more contains features specifically designed for independent,” Dr. Shaner said. its programs, such as the Adult Transition There is also an Employment Room for Program. special education students. “The quality of the design of the spaces “It is divided in two sections. One (classrooms, side is our Employment Employment “[The building] is great. It’s Room, life skills Assessment room, sensory Class. This class a really big building. Our old space) meet the helps students building was really small. We unique needs of develop couldn’t find our way around. adult students independence with disabilities, There were a lot of high school and helping to readiness for kids so we were a lot older.” prepare them employment,” for employment Turner said. Elise Ecker, ATP student and adult living, “The other while having side is set up the specially for our microdesigned spaces enterprise. The to meet their unique sensory, physical, students are learning skills or developing educational and social needs,” Assistant products to sell in our coffee shop. The Director of Special Education Sandra Turner entire purpose of the Employment Room is said. to help students prepare for employment.” Some key features of expansion include Along with the kitchen, apartment, and a full kitchen room equipped with stoves, Employment Rooms, there is also a large ovens, sinks and a dishwasher, along with an activity room which students with special apartment-style room with a bed, living room needs such as autism can use, allowing them and bathroom. to work with sensory skills like hearing,
touch and sight. There are also exercise balls, rocking chairs and other types of equipment students can use. The Schultz Educational Center was planned and built over the course of a year and a half. “Our Adult Transition Program staff (teachers, social worker, work based learning coordinator, speech pathologist, occupational and physical therapists) spent time researching design options and developing plans for each learning space,” Turner said. “There were meetings with administrators, ATPS staff, ACE Staff and RACE staff, a parent (Lisa Kowalski), the architectural firm (French and Associates), and district bond staff (building, technology, etc.) to develop the design. We also met to select furniture and the color [and] style of the flooring and walls, cabinets, etc. We met weekly [or] biweekly once construction started at the building site for updates and input.” Dr. Shaner explains what makes him most enthusiastic regarding the new Education Center. “Coming up with the concept of the building with community members and staff members,” Dr. Shaner said. “Seeing the students use it in an exciting way.”
PAGE 4 || NEWS
THE TALON || OCTOBER 2018
NEW STATUE DONATED TO RHS
RHS administration and alumni honor retired teacher ALEX GLASPIE STAFF WRITER
Early in the month of October, Lawson the Falcon, a bronze statue donated to Rochester High School by alumni, was placed and named by the school’s administrators. The falcon that is displayed above the mall at Rochester High was built in Italy throughout this year and last year. The superintendent, Dr. Robert Shaner, and the principal of RHS, Mr. Neil DeLuca, placed the 250 pound falcon into its handmade stand on Oct. 2, 2018. “So, one year ago, I was on a plane back from China with Dr. Shaner. While we were in China, I was seeing all of these monuments they had, and I thought, ‘This is really cool!’” Mr. DeLuca said. “I saw this old brass thing of their mascot or their school founder and I thought, ‘We need something similar to that, that we can have and it can be a part of our school forever.’” Mr. DeLuca wasn’t the only one to oversee the building of this statue. Rochester High School’s assistant principals and a few teachers helped him develop the concept for this statue. “Mr. Wrinkle and Mr. Wescott helped me out with this a lot, with looking at it and designing it,” Mr. DeLuca said. “Most notably, Mr. Lewis, our woodshop teacher, [helped]. He built the stand that it sits on and he measured the falcon and how it slides into the stand, which was all his idea. So, hats off to him for doing that.” Although the falcon may seem like a random add-on to Rochester High, the beautifully crafted bird has a special reason for being placed in the school. It is dedicated to a retired RHS teacher, Mr. Ray Lawson, who worked at the school for almost 60 years. “The falcon has a very special reason for being here,” Mr. DeLuca said. “There’s two reasons: to add one more tradition to Rochester High, and to keep a teacher’s history alive.” Mr. Lawson started working at Rochester High as an English teacher in 1946, over 70 years ago. He headed the English department for the majority of his career. He retired in 2004, finishing his teaching career off with a total of 59 years under his belt. “As an educator, it gives me hope,” Mr. DeLuca said. “If he can do it for 59 years and teach for that long, and witness so many changes, from technology to how we teach, it gives me hope that everything
is going to be okay. That I can go through these different cycles of teaching during the rest of my career, my, say, 15 years left, which is nothing compared to him, with hope.” There are a select few educators at RHS today who worked with Mr. Lawson. Among these teachers is Spanish teacher Ms. Beth East, who recalls many moments she shared with Mr. Lawson while they taught together. “[I met Ray Lawson] in 1994 when I was a new hire. I was hired to teach English and Spanish, and he was going to be my mentor, so he contacted me and asked me to meet him at Hamlin Pub,” Ms. East said. “He then ordered me a beer and started to tell me about RHS and his time there and the English department. It was clear that he was highly intelligent, very experienced and well read. I thought he was pretty cool!” Since Mr. Lawson dedicated so much of his time to Rochester High School, Mr. DeLuca decided to commemorate him. The Rochester High mall, collaboration spaces and media center have now been renamed “The Ray Lawson Learning Commons.” The statue and the newly named spaces were revealed to Mr. Lawson and his family, along with the entirety of the RHS staff, on Oct. 2. “Mr. Lawson was in tears and was dabbing his eyes with a tissue. I had tried to stifle my tears, but it was all over at that point,” Ms. East said. “To witness a man receiving such a high compliment and tribute that will live on for many years was incredible. RHS was his livelihood for over half of his life. His dedication to high standards of teaching and learning were truly recognized and honored.” Although Mr. Lawson did teach at RHS for almost 60 years, he also accomplished many other things during his life, including serving the United States during WWII. “We do an employee veterans luncheon where it’s just veterans, and he’s a WWII Vet,” Dr. Shaner said. “My first impression of him was that he’s just a rock solid guy. He’s a cool human being. He’s one of those people who you’d love to sit and talk to for hours. And he’s very unassuming. You know there’s not many WWII vets left, right? So, when you’re like, ‘Wow, you’re a WWII Vet!’ he’ll say to you, ‘Yeah, but I didn’t do much, you know…’” According to Ms. East, Mr. Lawson was a friendly coworker, and many teachers in
the building looked forward to spending time with him. Many were sad to see him leave. “Ray made his famous coffee cake for the English department on many Fridays,” Ms. East said. “Everyone looked forward to those days. However, I was sad to see him go, but happy that he was finally going to enjoy some free time. It was a huge deal— we had a great retirement party, and he was even on the news.” Lawson the Falcon became a reality after the school built up enough money
from senior advisor funds. Mr. DeLuca hopes the story of the bronze falcon will live on as each new generation of students cycles through the halls of Rochester High School. “Ten years from now, if I’m gone from Rochester and all of us are gone and someone wanted to move [the statue], it would be a big deal,” Mr. Deluca said. “Anyone can take down a banner, anyone can paint a wall a different color, but you can’t move [the statue] now, it’s stuck there. And that’s what I wanted for our school.”
Mr. Ray Lawson is wheeled into RHS by Debi Fragomeni while the Rochester varsity cheer team and varsity football team welcome him to the school. Photo courtesy of Elizabeth Russell.
Principal Mr. Neil DeLuca and Assistant Principals Mr. Casey Wescott and Mr. Josh Wrinkle, along with Superintendent Dr. Shaner, lift the 250 pound falcon statue onto its handmade base. Photo courtesy of Elizabeth Russell.
THE TALON || OCTOBER 2018
PAGE 5 || FEATURE
ROCHESTER HIGH SCHOOL’S NEW MAKERSPACE The Maker Movement comes to RHS’s students BIANCA MOW
SPORTS EDITOR
Information from Mrs. Harris
What is the Makerspace? “{The makerspace is} a classroom that teachers can take their class to in order to make and create things that tie into what they’re currently teaching in the class,” said media specialist Mrs. Harris.
What has been done? Marketing & Advertising: students re-worked old t-shirts to create their own brand of clothing.
Psychology: classes Create structures of the human brain and their functions by creating a 3D model of it
What’s Inside? 1. Technology 2. Art supplies 3. Repurposed materials Photo by Devin Toma.
Student Thoughts “The makerspace is a great idea that will definitely make many assignments in the future more fun,” said freshman Hector Fuentes.“The problems that it has been pretty small and the pros heavily outweigh the cons.” “I really enjoyed my experience in the makerspace,” said freshman Rebecca Salmonson. “It helped me to get creative and express my ideas through art instead of through a writing piece. It was also nice to work in a different environment other than a classroom.” “I had a lot of fun and enjoyed creating projects with all the fun and cool supplies in the makerspace,” said freshman Caroline Bulat.
PURPOSE “To use their skills to invent, design, and create products, projects, and processes that connect to whatever they’re learning – science, English, math concepts, history, business, health anything,” Harris said.
The CI program: students made ramps for Matchbox cars Photos courtesy of Creative Commons.
Steps to Create
In order to create the perfect space for the Makerspace to be held, Mrs. Matthews, Mrs. Sears, and Mrs. Harris went through each step to make this room what it was invisioned to be.
Shop and Order all needed Supplies
Ask and collect many donations
Clean the storage area it once was
Paint and decorate everything in the room
Obtain shelving, cupboards, and stools
Research and buy brand new technology
Present to PTSA for grant funding
and SO MUCH MORE!
THE TALON || OCTOBER 2018
PAGE 6 || FEATURE
HAIL TO THEE!
How RHS spirit and tradition has evolved over the years KARI EICKHOLDT STAFF WRITER
RHS, formerly known as the “Academy on the Hill,” established in 1883, used to sit on the corner of Fourth Street and Wilcox, where the original building still stands today. News stretched across town of the movement of RHS to a new facility on the corner of Livernois and Walton, where it is located today. Over the decades, the spirit of tradition at RHS has been thriving. The word “tradition” exerts a high rank of value within the Rochester community and is seen in the frequent participation of those involved in RHS’s spirited festivities. Since the establishment of RHS, some traditions have been modified over the years. For example, some traditions that now cease to exist are live bands performing at dances, homecoming floats and the Little Rose Bowl (powderpuff). Many traditions have stayed the same, though, such as the Alma Mater and the Two Bits Four Bits chant. “Last year I was looking through a student handbook, which I think dated back to the 1960s, and within the book it had some cheers and chants that we do,” Assistant Principal Josh Wrinkle said. “I found the Two Bits chant in there, which has stuck around for awhile, and the Alma Mater and the fight song have been pretty consistent.” The administrative team hopes to build upon the traditons at RHS. Over the years, some traditions have evolved, while new ones have also been created. “I think that our team and our focus is to enhance our traditions,” Principal Neil Deluca said. “Enhancing them to the point where we either highlight them or we even create new ones that are spun off from the original traditions. Our spirit of tradition has
of our school traditions was building only increased.” homecoming floats. We started as soon As a school, community and family, as school started and we would have a lot RHS is all about keeping the spirit of of flower making parties. We would have tradition alive for years to come and current themes to our floats and Rochester used to adventures. have enough barns for each class to build “Actually, traditions have been passed their class float in a barn,” Wood said. down particularly well at RHS because we’re “Then, we would have the homecoming the original high school of this town and parade and pep assemblies.” one of the oldest high schools in the state Wood’s memories from RHS have had a of Michigan,” RHS alumn and varsity cheer lasting effect on her, especially singing the coach Susan Wood said. “Things that have Alma Mater stayed mostly at honors the same is Two convocation. Bits Four Bits, In years homecoming past, honors assemblies, convocation was themes for held on a Friday homecoming are morning during similar, and even Mr. Neil DeLuca, principal school, and traditions relating everyone in the to seniors.” school would New traditions attend. continually show “I was in the up, and each one choir and my favorite tradition was singing contributes by vamping up the spirits of the the Alma Mater at honors convocation students in new ways, which is encouraged when all of the seniors were in their caps by the community. For instance, at sports and gowns. It was the first time that we games, the administrators throw the block R flag up into the student section. The recently sang without the seniors, so there were a lot of tears and it was very emotional,” Wood installed spotlight of the block R right said.“Singing the Alma Mater for the last outside of the main office, the Veterans Day time, especially hearing it sung as a senior celebration and the amping up of honors truly makes it a tradition that I will always convocation each year are all examples of love.” RHS building on its traditions. RHS’s biggest rival has always been with “I put up Lawson, our new falcon,” its neighboring school, Rochester Adams Assistant Principal Casey Wescott said. “I High. Mr.Wrinkle, a former teacher from have already heard that people are already rubbing the lamp of learning for good luck.” Adams, is able to truly see the high value and importance placed on traditions at RHS. As some traditions are added or “I think there are certain things that expanded, others die out over time. Wood explained that there were many old traditions are big deals for students at Adams and Rochester.,” Mr. Wrinkle said. “ We have that no longer exist at RHS today. things here that are big deals for students “I went to school in the ‘70s, and one
“Our spirit of tradition has only increased.”
here at Rochester specifically. I think both schools have a lot of tradition and I think they both have different things that they value, but I’ve enjoyed our traditions at Rochester a lot more than I have at Adams.” As healthy competition is widely seen amongst RHS and its neighboring rivals, the Soldiers of Fortune bring their support and school spirit to sporting events. The spirit during games can also be seen in the student section, the Falcon Marching Band, the colorguard, the varsity cheer team and the varsity dance team. As support and school spirit are brought to the games through these student groups, tradition is never lost. “My favorite tradition is probably the S.O.F,” junior Veronica Lai said. “They always hype up the crowd at games and make them more enjoyable for me.” Mr. Wrinkle feels it is important to promote tradition with the underclassmen, and even remind the upperclassmen to lead others so Rochester’s traditions continue to be passed down to future students. “I think it’s also important that we make sure our freshmen know that we are always open to new traditions and enhancing the ones we have,” Mr.Wrinkle said. “ It’s not okay for them to just sit back and go through the motions, we expect them to make them better for the people who come behind them.” The administrative team focuses on enhancing traditions to make them the best they can be, with the goal of making school more enjoyable. “To me, a tradition is something we carry on year after year and we wouldn’t do those things if they weren’t exciting and fun,” Mr.Wrinkle said. “ So, having a tradition that gives you guys the opportunity to have some fun while you’re in high school is most important.”
Then and
Now The class of ‘69 showing spirit at the homecoming game. Photo courtesy of the 1969 RHS yearbook.
The class of ‘18 cheering on the football team at the homecoming game. Photo courtesy of Tony Reedy.
PAGE 7 || FEATURE
LIFE THROUGH THE LENS
THE TALON || OCTOBER 2018
RHS students pursue their passion for capturing photos of the world around them ZOE SAWDON
FEATURE EDITOR
Senior Hope Laurencelle cannot help but smile as she snaps a few photos of her friend, for being in front of the camera has instantly lifted her mood. Though Laurencelle frequently shoots senior photos, she’s not in it for the money— her passion for photography comes from the simple satisfaction of bringing joy into someone’s day. Laurencelle is among the many students at RHS who have an interest in photography. She began taking photos about five years ago when her friends introduced her to the hobby, and it has since become something that she loves to do. “I like how an image can say a thousand words,” Laurencelle said. “I really like deep meaning and meaningful things, so that’s something I really like about photography.” Laurencelle’s favorite photos to capture are typically of the people around her, making senior photos an ideal use of her skills. “I love the expressions they have and the smile that I bring to their face when I take a picture of them,” Laurencelle said. “Words can’t explain it.” Juniors Madison Santia and Emily Eckel also have a passion for photography, and both were inspired by family members with an interest in the area. Santia’s first exposure to photography came from her grandma. “When I was twelve, my grandma would go to my brother’s football and baseball games and take pictures, and so one time I took a few pictures and it was really fun,” Santia said. “Ever since then I fell in love with it.” Watching her dad take photos made up a significant part of Eckel’s childhood, and she eventually grew to have the same passion for photography. Now, in addition to watching football, it is a hobby that they’re able to enjoy together. “My dad’s always been really into [photography],” Eckel said. “He had a camera, and everywhere we’d go I’d just ask to use his camera, and then he gave it to me three years ago for Christmas.” Eckel’s interest in cars is reflected through her photography— they are her favorite subject to shoot. “I love everything about cars, and I just love getting to show the accents and all of the details of the cars in different ways,” Eckel said. “I think it’s cool.” According to Laurencelle, improving at photography requires a lot of hard work and dedication. She is currently being offered internships at schools to run photography classes but recognizes that it has taken a lot
of practice to get to this point, including hours spent watching YouTube videos and more experienced photographers in action. Eckel also invested a lot of time into building up her photography skills with some help from her dad. “Basically my dad taught me how to do everything I know,” said Eckel. “I just kind of practiced and took pictures of everything I possibly could and just kept going and kept going.” Santia taught herself much of what she knows about photography by beginning with a basic camera and improving her skills from there. Now, with years of experience, Santia still takes advantage of opportunities to learn and grow as a photographer. “[Photography is] a cool way to meet new people because they see your work and ask you more about it and ask if they can shoot with you,” Santia said. “A lot of other people who enjoy photography and film and stuff like that, you’re able to work with them and learn stuff from them as well.” Looking ahead to her future, Santia hopes to go to film school after graduating from RHS. Although film will be her main focus, she still plans to maintain photography as a hobby. Similarly, Eckel hopes to continue taking photos even if she chooses to go into something else after high school. “I kind of want to go into marketing, so I might end up using [photography] in that if I go into that, but I don’t really know,” Eckel said. “If I don’t end up using it, then I want to keep it as a thing I like to do, like a side job even.” Laurencelle plans to minor in photography in college and start up her own business on the side while she pursues her goal of becoming a full-time teacher. Regardless of her future goals, however, Laurencelle is currently taking her passion to the next step by starting a photography club at RHS. Counselor Christopher Green is the club sponsor, bringing with him some past photography experience of his own. “My first experience was in 2001,” Mr. Green said. “I went with a friend who was taking a photo class on a field trip they were taking. She let me take one photo at Cranbrook. When she developed the pictures she said mine was her favorite. From then on I had a passion for photography.” Mr. Green hopes that sponsoring the club will allow him to revisit his old hobby. “It was a great way to take time for myself and taught me to see the world much differently that still sticks with me to this day,” Mr. Green said. “I am not as active as I would like to be. Being a part of this club
From top to bottom right: photos by junior Emily Eckel, senior Hope Laurencelle and junior Madison Santia. has already reignited the passion to get out and take pictures.” As club president, Laurencelle aims to create a fun and flexible experience for members by offering opportunities to be social and explore places outside of RHS. “We’re going to Royal Oak or going out to the city of Detroit maybe, and other places outside of the building,” Laurencelle said. “It’s a friend-based connection kind of thing, and it’s going to make people become really close because you’re going to see them every two weeks and go out and do what you guys love.” In addition to making connections with other students, Mr. Green believes that joining the club is a great way for students to express themselves artistically. “Photography is a place many people can enhance their creative side,” Mr. Green said. “It also changes life perspectives through viewing your world in a more clear, direct way.” For people who have taken an interest in photography and are not sure where to begin, Eckel’s advice is to start slow and stick with it. “If you teach yourself even how to take photos on an iPhone or anything, you can always build from there,” Eckel said. “You can always get a nicer camera later on in life.
It’s just really good to keep those photos that you have, even if they’re not that good.” Santia suggests that beginners take time to evaluate their photos to decide what needs improvement. “Honestly just printing them out and putting them in some kind of folder so you can see your pictures over time [is helpful]” Santia said. “It doesn’t matter what type of camera you have, you can just start there and find what you like to take pictures of.” Joining photography club is also an ideal place for beginners to start, according to Mr. Green. “Since most students have a camera phone, the photo club offers a very low cost experience,” Mr. Green said. “You don’t need to have any experience in taking photos and newcomers can benefit from the knowledge of the group and experiment. There is no way to go wrong.” Despite the amount of photography experience one has, Laurencelle believes that taking photos is a positive and rewarding use of time. “Honestly, it’s kind of healthy for your soul,” Laurencelle said. “Instead of doing bad stuff, you’re filling your life with making people happy. I love to make people happy, and I feel like photography kind of does that.”
PAGES 8-9 || FEATURE
USDA School Weekly Lunch Requirements
LUNCH: SCHOOLED
THE TALON || OCTOBER 2018
RHS student opinions on school lunch “They are not beneficial for students in the long run.” Vincent Guerrieri, 12
What is being served in schools ELIZABETH BULAT EDIOR-IN-CHIEF
Requirements from USDA.
When the bell rings at 10:42 a.m., the halls of RHS flow Amid the healthy options served at RHS including the daily with students as they funnel into the mall for their long awaited salad bar, and home cooked meals, the lunch buffet is littered lunch period. The majority of students pull out lunches they with unhealthy supplements. The famed Bosco Sticks and tater brought from home, while others enter the cafeteria to buy hot tots served throughout the week are as tasty as they are popular lunch. Since 1946 when the National School Lunch Act was among students— however, they don’t provide high schoolers passed, schools across America have been required to offer with the necessary nutrients they need for a healthy lifestyle nutritionally balanced meals at a low or free cost to students. or diet. Mrs. Golzynski explained that indulging in unhealthy “By state law, all schools in the state of Michigan are foods every once in a while doesn’t threaten the entirety of a required to participate in the federal National School Lunch healthy diet. Eating foods high in fat or sugar from time to time Program,” said Diane Golzynski, the director of the office of isn’t a bad thing, as long as their consumption is limited and Health and Nutrition Services and the director of the State they’re balanced within the rest of one’s overall nurishment. Child Nutrition program for the Michigan Department of “School meals are only a part of the bigger picture. It’s Education. “MDE is required to monitor each school district important for students to make healthy choices at home as on a three year cycle to assure that they are following the well,” said Mrs. Golzynski. “What is the community doing to federal nutrition standards.” help them assure they have the meals These requirements are set by they need to be the best learners they “Eating healthy in teenage the United States department of can be?” Agriculture (USDA) and enforced One of the many problems with years is extremely by the MDE. The nutritional merits unhealthy foods being served in a important.” are created to ensure that students cafeteria is the risk that the foods Mrs. Oppat, health teacher get healthy meals to help them get consumed won’t fit into a complete through the school day. Additionally, diet. For some students across as explained by RHS health teacher the district, school breakfasts and Mrs. Amy Oppat, eating nutritionally lunches are at free or reduced costs at an early age can contribute to lifelong habits that establish a due to a lower family income. This is significant because if the healthy lifestyle. students are receiving ten of their recommended twenty-one “Eating healthy in teenage years is extremely important. weekly meals from the school, it’s not guaranteed that they are The teenage body and brain is still developing and needs consuming the unhealthy foods in moderation. In other words, appropriate nutrients for adequate growth and development,” eating potentially unhealthily at school for half of their weekly Mrs. Oppat said. “Choosing healthier food options will meals provides them with little to no flexibility with their other optimize one’s energy levels and allow them to focus better on meals if they are going to pursue a balanced diet. their studies. It also helps teens develop good eating habits for “I believe that the kids here will eat whatever they are a lifetime.” served, despite knowing it’s nutritional value,” said senior Kyle In 2012, schools around the nation were required to meet Edwards. “Because if the don’t they will not have a lunch.” stricter nutritional standard for school lunches: more fruits, Junior Regina Cabrera reveals the unhealthy choices that vegetables and whole grains, while cutting back on sodium, fat she observes other students making in the cafeteria. Mrs. and excess calories. Mrs. Golzynski noted that another goal Oppat believes that a cause of this is the lack of education and of the nutritional standards is to reveal to students the wide awareness to the nutritional value of the foods students are variety of foods that contribute to a truly balanced diet. consuming. At home, meals are often prepared for students “Rochester cafeteria offers some healthy options. Salads that encompass healthful foods that are nourishing for young can provide many of the essential nutrients with lower calorie minds. Nonetheless, once given the power to choose what food content,” Mrs. Oppat said. “Chicken and beans are a good will fill one’s plate, some students ultimately ignore what may source of protein, which is essential for cell repair and also be the “healthy” choice and go with something that merely provides the body with energy.” tastes good. Since 2008, Chartwells Food Service has provided students “I’ve seen students making both healthy and unhealthy and staff within Rochester Community Schools with breakfasts choices when eating food from the cafeteria,” Mrs. Oppat said. and lunches on a daily basis. Students are given more options “I think it’s important to be educated on the benefits of eating and greater freedom when purchasing lunch as they progress healthy food and how it affects the way our bodies and brains from elementary to middle to high school. Therefore, at RHS, function.” students are given multiple meal, snack and drink choices every A solution to this problem was offered by Mrs. Oppat. She day. Chartwells exceeds the minimum requirements set for would like so see nutritional labels and information posted in school lunches by providing a plethora of options throughout the cafeteria to improve the school’s overall awareness of the the week of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, proteins and lowfood they are putting in their bodies, and hopefully encourage fat options. them to make healthier choices at school. Cabrera agrees, and “I think that we have options that are healthy...really a lot said she thinks that students don’t pay attention to their food of [lunch choices] depends on the student and the student’s unless they are trying to lose weight or stick to a specific diet. preferences,” said Naomi Mendez, RHS Chartwells head. “I “I don’t believe the food is real and I want to know what’s in think it’s great that we go above and beyond just so we give it,” said senior Erin Robinson. “I want to be well informed with people more options.” what’s going into my body.”
“The school lunch has healthy sides, but the main meals aren’t that healthy.” Mikayla Agius, 11 “The pizzas have a very delightful crunch.” Michael Arsenault, 11
WHAT’S COOKIN’? Daily options served at RHS
2 mato
Bosco sticks and pizza variety
grill’d
Burgers, Chicken Sandwiches, and more
SO DELI Fresh salad and wrap bar
USA Classics
Homestyle meals from around the world
Graphics by Elizabeth Bulat.
THE TALON || OCTOBER 2018
PAGE 10 || FEATURE
Reach members gather together to listen to a Bible reading, as they do during each of their meetings. Photo by Mariam Hanna.
ROCHESTER REACH
Student-led prayer group gains momentum in its second year MARIAM HANNA
LIFESTYLES & ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR Every other Tuesday, junior Zoe Sawdon gets up early to come to Rochester High School to lead and partake in Rochester Reach, a new unofficial club devoted to Christian prayer. She is a head of the club, along with freshman Lauren Kolodsick and sophomore Ana Hernandez. RHS is a diverse school full of students and staff of different cultures and religions, and this is exhibited through its multiple religious clubs. Reach is an example of this, as well as the Muslim Student Association that ran last school year. RHS also offers theology, a class lead by Mrs. Sarah Meish, which helps students learn about world religions. Reach meets every other Tuesday at 7 a.m. in Ms. Scisolwicz’s room. “It’s really, really chill,” Hernandez said. “We start off by eating donuts and talking about our day. Then, we have a devotional that starts off our whole week. After that, we pray and go to our classes.” Unlike most clubs and groups at RHS, Reach is an unofficial cub, which means there is no fee. “Our group isn’t an official club,” Sawdon said. “That’s just because we thought that would be better since when you join a club, you have to pay a fee and that sometimes turns people away.” The main goal of Reach is to connect students who have the same faith and priorities. This was the reason Sawdon began the prayer group, and it has continued to be one of its main points. “Our goal was there’d be a place where other Christians would come and meet together and establish a community,” Sawdon said. “So, when your walking down the hall, and you see someone else from the club, you’re like, ‘Hey, look! There’s another person who I know who also loves God just like I do.’”
Reach has two teacher sponsors: Mr. Meish and Ms. Scislowicz. These teachers let Reach members in the school early and allow them to hold their meetings in their rooms. They also occasionally meet with the group leaders to discuss plans and ideas. “I’ve been kind of letting the students take over so far, so I’ve just kind of been in the room, but I guess the first goal is to make it more widely known,” Ms. Scislowicz said. “I don’t know if a lot of students know about it. So, Mr. Meisch and I are taking that on.” As a teacher, Ms. Scislowicz sees RHS students’ stress and all the outside pressures coming at them, and she believes Reach is a good way to calm down and destress. “[Reach] is something I’m passionate about,” said Ms. Scislowicz. “ I have a faith, too, and I love to see students come together, especially before school when they’re stressed, and just kind of relieve that and pray together.” Ms. Scislowicz also knows there are many students who may want to join a prayer group like Reach but are too nervous to take part. “If you’re more quiet and reserved and you don’t like praying in front of people, I’d say don’t let that hinder you,” Ms. Scislowicz said. “Come anyway because other people will lead and its more really like you’re soaking it in. Even if you’re not a leader or you’re not super outgoing, it’s still the place for you.” Similarly, Reach has allowed Sawdon and other club members to become more outgoing and try new things. Sawdon said not only has her faith grown because of this prayer group, but so have her leadership skills. Being one of the group leaders, she has had to step out of her comfort zone. “I have learned that you can’t be timid about it,” Sawdon
said. “You can’t [keep doubting youself]. You have to be really ambitious, even if the task that you want to accomplish seems big and daunting, you have to just kind of jump right it and start doing it or else it’s never going to happen.” Like Sawdon, Hernandez’s faith is important to her, and she wanted to bring her love for God to school. “In seventh grade, I kind of went through a dark time,” Hernandez said. “I didn’t really believe in God, but after I went to this camp, He really helped me. I knew who He was, and I found Him. Knowing somebody who is there for me no matter what really helped me.” Hernandez attends Woodside Bible Church, where she is an ambassador. She learned about Reach through this program. “My church has school ambassadors who represent each school, and they asked me if I wanted to [lead Reach] with a couple of my friends who also go to Rochester,” Hernandez said. “I wanted to also spread the word of God at school because school is a dark place, and even though people might not believe in God, just knowing that he’s there and spreading that light is why I like to be in this group.” Aside from goals for Reach, Hernandez has goals she wants to achieve within her faith in the future. “I’d like to work with special needs in the ministry,” Hernandez said. “So, I want to spend more time with them, and I also want other people to grow like I did and know that God is always there no matter what.” Sawdon and Hernandez say they love partaking in and leading Rochester Reach, and they urge anyone who shares their love for the Christian faith and for God to join. “If you want more information, you can come to me,” Hernandez said. “It’s super fun, and you can always rely on someone when you’re alone.”
PAGE 11 || OPINION
THE TALON STAFF Adviser: Mrs. Facca Editor-in-Chief: Elizabeth Bulat Copy and News Editor: Violet Resh Feature Editor: Zoe Sawdon Entertainment and Lifestyles Editor: Mariam Hanna Sports Editor: Bianca Mow Business Manager: Noah Peterson Staff Staff Staff Staff Staff Staff Staff Staff Staff Staff Staff Staff Staff Staff Staff Staff Staff Staff Staff Staff Staff Staff Staff Staff
Writer: Colin Alison Writer: Wyatt Anness Writer: M. Conner Arsenault Writer: Megan Belz Writer: Ava Biordi Writer: Kate Breitschuh Writer: Javionna Davis Writer: Chad Dazo Writer: Kari Eickholdt Writer: Aryn Gallacher Writer: Alex Glaspie Writer: Sanya Gupta Writer: Fazil Hussain Writer: Collin Kilpatrick Writer: Holly McDonald Writer: Pooja Patel Writer: Summer Rawashdeh Writer: Maggie Rhymstett Writer: Raghda Romaya Writer: Preston Schroyer Writer: Rahi Shah Writer: Sharan Shibu Writer: Megan Splan Writer: Devin Toma
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.
MEMBERSHIPS
THE TALON || OCTOBER 2018
STAFF EDITORIAL: Does Tradition Matter?
The three core principles of Rochester High School are character, tradition, and achievement. It’s easy for visitors to see how much RHS cares about tradition, since the three founding principles are plastered everywhere, on the walls in the hallways and draped on banners outside in the car loop. Tradition plays a significant role in the school year at RHS, from big events, like the Winter pep assembly, to the small ones, like the student section’s chants during games. Some students choose to participate, while others would rather abstain, which brings up the question: Does tradition matter? Traditions can be found throughout RHS. From sports teams to in the classroom, there is often a tradition for anything. Many of RHS’s sports teams have pre or post game traditions, like a recently added tradition on the football team where a teammate who played the best from last week’s game carries out an ax that is inscribed with “Keep swinging,” These traditions, while perceived by some as superstitious, are mostly meant to bring the team closer together and serve as a bonding moment before the game. More historic and longer lasting traditions have stayed around too, such as the Alma Mater. The song has been used during the school year since the school’s creation back in 1883. Although many traditions have become outdated, such as powderpuff and live bands at the Homecoming dance, the Alma Mater has stuck. Some students might be averse to participating in traditions, thinking that they may be “corny.” Sometimes, they are just too scared to join. Participation is an ongoing battle with traditions at RHS. While some graduating classes show overwhelming support for traditions, others show less support, and it can sometimes be a struggle to garner enthusiasm for events. A poll conducted with members of The Talon staff on whether traditions or not are important resulited in 28 staff members voting yes, and none voting no. It shows how important traditions really are to Rochester students. Tradition is everywhere in RHS school life, with the fight song even playing during the final bell. Traditions have gives and takes to them. While it can be nothing but good times for willing volunteers, some people can’t break out of their shells, and end up losing out on key moments in their high school experience. Overall, the role that traditions play in bringing students from all backgrounds together, under one banner, makes traditions a very important aspect of school life. No matter who you are, or where you’re from, traditions will bring you closer with your fellow classmates, and even faculty. Tradition matters in order to bring schools together.
“Tradition is important because it sets the foundation for how we do things at RHS.” Mariam Hanna, sophomore
“It’s always important to look at the past in order to chart a course for the future.” Noah Peterson, senior
“Tradition is a core value of RHS. Without it, there wouldn’t be anything distinct that separates us from other schools.” Aryn Gallacher, junior
THE TALON || OCTOBER 2018
PAGE 12 || LIFESTYLES
PUMPKIN CARVING
The traditions of the season MEGAN SPLAN
STAFF WRITER
It’s time to get out the cobwebs, spiders, costumes, and pumpkins. With all of the leaves changing color, donuts with cider and cold weather approaching, it’s time to carve the perfect pumpkin and have the best Halloween decorations in the neighborhood. Along with going Trick-orTreating, many people have special traditions when it comes to Halloween. Carving laughing Jack O’ Lantern faces on pumpkins is one of the most common Halloween traditions in America. “We carve pumpkins every
year,” interior design, foods, and fashion teacher Mrs. Katie Kimble said. “Usually it’s the night before Halloween. But my kids look forward to it and we always make pumpkin seeds and eat them.” Having pumpkins to carve can add to the spirit of Halloween for many families. Memories from pumpkin carving can also contribute to the fun of Halloween. Freshman Ava Wadle, says these memories can last a lifetime and they can build relationships and bonds with others. “My favorite memory is when my sister got her hand stuck in a pumpkin,” Wadle said. “It was so
funny at the time.” While pumpkin carving is viewed as a fun and amusing Halloween activity by many, it can also leave some feeling a little stressed. “I feel like pumpkin has always been really stressful,” Mrs. Kimble said. “It may sound like a good idea, but it can be very stressful. Like figuring out a design and then realizing they’ll never look as good as you want them to.” Though stress can come to the mind when pumpkin carving, the fun memories from Halloween celebrations might just put a rainbow over a gloomy day. The kids’ laughter, and the screams
Dozens of pumpkins are displayed at the Yate’s Cider Mill pumpkin sale. Photo by Megan Splan. from the horror movies quickly remind people what this season is all about. “Yes, [I think everyone should carve pumpkins for the Halloween season],” Mrs. Kimble said. “I think it’s part of the whole time of the year in the season.” People’s preferences vary on
who they like to carve pumpkins with. Some people prefer to pumpkin carve with family, but others want to pumpkin carve with friends. “I prefer pumpkin carving with my family,” freshmen Caroline Bulat said. “It’s been a tradition in my family since I was little.”
WHAT’S YOUR PHASE?
What the moon phases say about your personality VIOLET RESH
COPY EDITOR
As the moon changes phase, the energy changes as well, causing some to believe that the moon sign influences people’s personalities at birth. They are divided into six phases and personalities. Information about the moon phase personalities is from moonglow.com, and information about the dates is from calendar-12.com. Scan the QR Code to find the sign of the moon on your birthday. New Moon (A): The New Moon phase is all about new beginnings, which is reflected in those who are born under this sign. They are known for their creative disposition and tend to have good instincts. They can also be impulsive, but once they find a passion for something, there is no swaying them. When they have made up their minds, they go forward with deep devotion, which means they often achieve what they set out to do. Sometimes it can be hard to remain true to themselves when they are confronted with fears or worries, but once they are able to overcome these obstacles, they are back at it. Waxing (First) Crescent (B): Those born under the Waxing Crescent are a little wild and adventurous. They have no problem telling it how it is and going after what they want. This personality, combined with their visionary eyes, can set them up to take full advantage of everything life has to offer and become successful. When they are creating their path, they can sometimes get torn between staying safe or risking everything for something new. It’s important that those born on this sign practice balance while on their adventures. Waxing Gibbous (C): To be born under the Waxing Gibbous means that a person is a thinker. Those born under this phase have a knack for analyzing feelings and pondering on philosophies. Their quick-thinking and considerate disposition means they try to find solutions that are best for everyone. Being so in touch with emotions means they are good with relationships. They form great bonds with friends, family and partners with whom they find great comfort and security. These dedicated connections help them achieve happiness in life. Waning Gibbous (D): The babies of the Waning Gibbous are called the “caretakers of the universe” according to Moonglow. They have such sweet natures and are always looking to lend a helping hand to anyone who may need it. One of their signature features is their strong will, and when that is combined with their generosity, they often end up in public service. They are happy to make others happy. They rely on their strength and resolve to stay away from bad decisions or actions and aren’t usually pressured. The challenge of uncertainty does not hold them back. Waning Crescent (E): The energy shift in this sign has a big influence on the psychic thinking of those born under this moon. Their understanding or interest in otherworldly concepts is much more prevalent than in others born under other signs. They have a unique imagination and can conjure up strange dreams on nights where the moon in Waning Crescent. Their affinity for all things interesting really defines their character. Full Moon (F): The Full Moon is the most extreme phase of the lunar cycle, which parallels those born under its influence. They tend to be more outgoing and attract many friends with their magnetic personality. Comprehending deep feelings is not their strong suit, but that doesn’t hold them back from reaching their full potential. While their minds may change time and time again, they always put 100 percent into everything they do. They are quick learners and, being guided by their heart, they often fulfill their aspirations.
THE TALON || OCTOBER 2018
PAGE 13 || LIFESTYLES
HALLOWEEN MADE EASY Four quick and simple costume ideas MARIAM HANNA
LIFESTYLES & ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR
Angel & Devil Duo For this classic partner costume, designate one person to be an angel and the other to be a devil. Have the angel wear all white (white top and pants, white dress, etc.) and the other wear all red (red top and pants/skirt, red dress, etc.). To top it off, purchase a halo for the angel and devil horns for the devil from a party or Halloween store.
For more costume ideas, go to rochestertalon.com.
Rosie the Riveter With the growth of feminism amongst young people, this wartime inspired costume has become more and more popular. Wear a blue, short sleeve, and buttoned up top with any type of long pants, and tie a red bandana around your head.
Winnie the Pooh & Piglet Duo This less common partner costume idea is both cute and simple. The person who is going to be Winnie should wear a yellow top and red bottoms, and the person who is going to be Piglet should wear all hot pink. Buy Winnie the Pooh ears and Piglet ears off of Amazon or at a Halloween store, and your costume will be all done!
Superman/ Clark Kent Should you be Superman or should you be Clark Kent? Well, who said you have to choose one? Wear a Superman t-shirt under a button up dress shirt with the first few buttons undone. Put on professional dress pants, black rimmed glasses, and a name tag that says Clark Kent.
Photos by Mariam Hanna.
IS HALLOWEEN STILL RELEVANT?
Falcons give their insight on the popuarity of Halloween ARYN GALLACHER STAFF WRITER
As the season of flannels, pumpkins and lattes approaches, people all over Michigan prepare for the month of October and the upcoming winter filled with lights and snow. However, before people get ready for the holidays, October becomes the month to celebrate all things Halloween, including the popular tradition of trick-or-treating. Many children and teenagers look forward to the month of October, as it symbolizes a month of free candy— however, questions have risen over what age a child or teenager should hit before they are too old to knock on their neighbor’s door and ask for candy. “I believe there is a great divide on this topic and I sit on the fence,” world history teacher Mrs. Sarah Thomas said. “On one hand, I do think that people can be too old to go trick-or-treating. On the other hand, when I think of those older kids that do go trick-or-treating and how I don’t agree with it, at least those kids are not doing other things that could be negative, like vandalizing or partying or doing other
things they shouldn’t.” Halloween. Although Mrs. Thomas thinks some “My sister just decorated our house teenagers could be too old, it seems that yesterday with all of our Halloween some students believe there should be no decorations,” Benson said. “I do pass out age to define if candy, but I don’t they are qualified usually dress up.” “It’s not something just little kids to receive candy Throughout on Halloween or the month of have to do. You can just go and not. October, people get candy; it’s not something that “It’s not also get into the should become irrelevant as you something just Halloween spirit get older.” little kids have to by enjoying a do,” junior Carly classic horror Carly Rodman, junior Rodman said. film. However, “You can just go there are still and get candy. ways to watch It’s not something that should become a Halloween movie without having to irrelevant as you get older.” experience haunting affects. Whether teens enjoy trick-or-treating “I am not a fan of scary movies, but I or not, there are still some other ways to love ‘Hocus Pocus,’” Mrs. Thomas said. celebrate the season of spooky festivities, “The movie is from the early ‘90s, and we such as throwing a Halloween party, watched it every year as a kid.” shopping for costumes or carving out Despite the excitement of Halloween that pumpkins. Junior Claire Benson explains many children, teenagers and adults seem to how her family traditionally gets ready for experience around this time of year, there are
still some aspects of this holiday that some don’t particularly enjoy. Many parents may not like the money they spend on candy to hand out to children in the neighborhood, while others may get frustrated with the daring teenagers who run around on Halloween night. For Rodman, her biggest issue is having to deal with this holiday falling on a school night. “I don’t like when [Halloween] is on a weekday because we have school the next day,” Rodman said. “You’re out and trying to have fun, but then you have school, so you have to go to bed.” With the numerous activities people could do to celebrate the spooky season of Halloween, many people, especially teenagers, argue that Halloween is still a popular festivity in America and should continue to be categorized as an unofficial holiday. “There are stores dedicated to just Halloween,” Benson said. “Most people celebrate it, and I like the fact that it’s not religious, so anybody can celebrate it.”
THE TALON || OCTOBER 2018
PAGE 14 || ENTERTAINMENT
IN THEATERS SOON
New movies coming to a theater near you DEVIN TOMA STAFF WRITER
“The Grinch” Opens Nov. 9
The Grinch lives a lonely life inside a cave in the city of Whoville. He gets very aggravated during Christmastime due to his neighbors celebrating the holidays. This year, the Whos want to make Christmas bigger than ever. The Grinch realizes there is only one way to get the peace and quiet he wants, and decides to pose as Santa Claus, steal Christmas and silence the city’s holiday cheer.
“Robin Hood” Opens Nov. 21
New to theatres this November is “Robin Hood,” starring Taron Egerton as Robin. Jamie Foxx also stars in the movie as Robin Hood’s right hand man. Robin, who is a wise crusader, and his commander scale a revolt against the corrupt English crown to bring order back to England.
“Creed II”
Opens Nov. 21
“Creed II” is a sequel to the movie “Creed.” This new installment tells the story of Adonis Creed’s life and the biggest fight of his career. Creed is the newly crowned lightweight champion. His puts him through intense training in order to solidify his skills. His opponent is none other than Ivan Drago Jr., son of Captain Ivan Drago, who killed Adonis’s father, Apollo Creed.
THE CLASSICS
“Bumblebee” Opens Dec. 21
The year is 1987, and a yellow Autobot named Bumblebee is seeking refuge in a junkyard in a California beach town. Charlie, an 18-year-old girl, is trying to find her place in the world when she discovers the broken down old yellow Volkswagen. Charlie begins to repair the car and is able to revive it. She quickly learns about the car’s special abilities. Photos courtesy of Creative Commons.
Falcons share the novels they consider timeless COLIN ALISON
STAFF WRITER
Why read the classics?
“To Kill a Mockingbird”
“The Raven”
“Pride and Predjudice”
History is littered with amazing books. With so many out there, only some can be considered true classics. These texts, like any book, can instill important life lessons and make deep connections with readers. While many classic texts are studied in language arts classes, these are some of RHS students’ and staff ’s favorites.
Senior Ashley Adiwidjaja’s favorite piece of classic literature is Harper Lee’s “To Kill a Mockingbird.” The book was written in 1964, and is about a child named Scout living in the Great Depression era south. The book highlights the racism and backwards social norms of the Jim Crow south. “This is my favorite book because the characters are so memorable,” Adiwidjaja said. “I’ve read hundreds of books, and I can still remember the characters in this novel. The story itself is also full of surprises and makes you want to keep reading.”
Senior Tej Seth’s favorite piece of classic literature is Edgar Allan Poe’s “The Raven.” The classic poem, written in 1845, chronicles the creepy story of a man sitting in his house being nagged by a mysterious talking raven. “It’s my favorite because of the creative rhyme scheme that makes it flow almost like a song,” Seth said. “The mood is set really well and the suspense had me invested in the poem.”
Language arts teacher Ms. Nicole Frisby’s favorite piece of classic literature is the book “Pride and Prejudice,” by Jane Austen. Written in 1813, the book details the life of a girl named Elizabeth, whose mother tries to arrange for her daughters to be married off to rich men. “One reason this book is my favorite is that at first it challenged me,” Ms. Frisby said. “I remember needing to adjust my reading speed when I would first pick the book up to continue reading because it would take me a couple of pages to get back ‘into the zone’ of reading the language as Austen wrote it in her time.”
Suggestion By: Ashley Adiwidjaja
Suggestion By: Tej Seth
If you2018 likedvarsity this classic, you may If you liked this classic, you may like: lacrosse teamlike: at practice “Go Set a Watchmen,” by Harper Lee, “The Black Cat” and “The Tell tale Photo courtesy of David Hamel and “Animal Farm,” by George Orwell Heart,” both by Edgar Allen Poe
Suggestion By: Ms. Frisby
If you liked this classic, you may like: “Emma,” by Jane Austin, and “Jane Eyre,” by Charlotte Bronte
THE TALON || OCTOBER 2018
PAGE 15 || SPORTS
FALL SPORTS TRADITIONS AND RIVALRIES Take a deeper look into the RHS fall sports team’s rituals RAHI SHAH AND SANYA GUPTA STAFF WRITERS
Girls Volleyball
Rival(s): Adams High School’s and Rochester High School’s volleyball teams have been rivals for 48 years, since Adams was opened. “Rochester used to be the only high school in the city,” said Coach Kirk Gibbs. “In 1970, Adams opened up and students that used to go to RHS were now going to Adams. It was bound to be a rivalry, but the way it started just intensified it.” The two teams may play in different divisions some years, but the rivalry is always the same. The RHS team played Adams this year at the City Cup on Sept. 5 and lost a close match. Traditions: Every time the girls’ volleyball team has a home game, they run to the back room of the gym and hit an “R” sticker while walking out before they play their game. “I think it’s cool because it gets us really excited to hit it and run out,” said junior Anna Nickel, a varsity volleyball player.
Girls Golf
Rival(s): “Golf is a little different when it comes to rivalries,” Coach Jeff Haney said. “You would think our biggest rivals would be Adams and Stoney... and that has been the case at times in the past, but our biggest rivals over the past few years have been Bloomfield, Clarkston, and Lake Orion.” All four teams, including Rochester, have been the top teams in the state of Michigan. Traditions: “Years ago, the girls started a tradition of forming a huddle, saying anything that needed to be said, and kicking their right foot into the middle on the count of three,” Coach Haney said. “Most traditions are great if they bring a team closer together.”
Boys and Girls Cross Country
Rival(s): Stoney Creek High School is the cross country team’s biggest rival this season. This rivalry has been fluctuating because RHS’s cross country team moved down a division since last year. In the past, Adams was the number one rival, but they aren’t the same division anymore. All three teams are still very competitive with each other. Traditions: The cross country team has a whopping seven traditions. One of the unique ones is “Joke of the Day,” when their coach tells them a joke as they are running out doing strides. “I like it because it kind of takes some of the pressure off of running and makes sure it reminds us that it’s fun,” said senior varsity runner Liz Bulat. The team also crosses their arms and shakes hands with each other at the starting line as a way of saying good luck. ”I think it induces team bonding and brings up the spirit before a race,” sophomore Kaija Windeler said.
Football
Rival(s): Adams and Stoney are the football team’s biggest competitors. These rivalries have been going on as long as the schools have existed. The school spirit is high on these game days. Traditions: The player who had the best game the previous week gets to carry down a (fake) axe. “It just represents how hard we’ve worked you know and how hard we’re going to play in the game,” said senior varsity player Drake Reid. “[It] started actually this year and says to keep swinging, you know because it’s an axe, so keep on fighting.”
Girls Swim
Rival(s): Stoney Creek is the swim team’s main rival. They faced each other early in the season during a meet in August and lost 90-96. “Both our teams have equal skill levels,” said senior Varsity Swim Captain Rhea Gupta. “It’s always a very close meet, and you never know who’s gonna win.” Traditions: The girls have many rituals they do to get ready for a swim meet. Some include going in the locker room and holding hands while the captains give a pep talk, and then they walk out chanting the ROC cheer. “The tradition has been going on ever since the team started, and it’s just to get everybody really excited to swim,” said Gupta. During the National Anthem, they link pinkies and, starting with the first person, squeeze the pinky behind them for luck. “I think it’s a good tradition because it lets people know that we’re a tight-knit team,” Gupta said.
Boys Tennis
Rival(s): “[We have] a typical Stoney, Adams, Rochester rivalry,” varsity tennis player Mike Randall said. This rivalry took a twisted turn this year. Last year, Rochester’s tennis team lost both matches. However, this season, they beat both of them. Traditions: On the bus back home from a match, the tennis team always does the ROC cheer before getting off. “I think that’s one of our traditions that we’ve always had and will always kind of keep,” Coach Jerry Murphy said. They also do the RO cheer before they start their match. “It’s kind of a rallying call,” Coach Murphy said. “You watch the football guys on the TV and before the game they always do a kind of hoot and hollering they do, and that’s kind of ours.”
Cheer
Rival(s): The cheer team doesn’t have rivals in the fall season since they aren’t competing yet, but they use the fall season to prepare for the winter season. “It all depends on our competitive season, and we haven’t really reached that point yet this year,” says junior Kari Eickholdt, a varsity cheerleader. “During the fall season, we can usually seek out our biggest competitors, and right now it looks like our biggest one might be Adams.” Traditions: At all home games, the cheer teams put up festive signs on the bleachers and draw with chalk on the sidewalks. Before competitions, they sing the national anthem and their team song. “[We also do this] ritualistic thing before each round,” Eickholdt said. “We sit in circle and hold hands and tell each other inspirational things. It makes me contain passion and determination to want to win. Our team is like a family.”
Boys Soccer
Rival(s): The boy’s soccer team has a unique rival compared to other teams. “Our team’s biggest rivalry is the next team on our schedule,” Coach Chris Purgatori said. “We try to take it one game at a time and not to look ahead. I’d be lying if I said we didn’t prep a little more for Stoney or Adams, but we do take it one game at a time.” Traditions: Coach Purgatori created a new tradition this fall season for the team. “We have the clean tackle ‘crunch’ of the game,” Coach Purgatori said. “The player who has the best tackle without fouling is awarded a box of Captain Crunch for the next game.” To some, a box of cereal may not sound like much, but to the boys, it creates a sense of pride.
THE TALON || OCTOBER 2018
PAGE 16|| SPORTS
FALCON SOCCER’S RISING STAR
Freshman Griffin Chamberlin makes his mark on varsity soccer COLLIN KILPATRICK
STAFF WRITER
Varsity sports are usually reserved for upperclassmen, but every once in a while, a younger player will get a spot on that team. For freshman Griffin Chamberlin, his spot on varsity soccer came his first year at RHS. Chamberlin has been playing for almost his entire life, which helped prepare him for a spot on varsity. “What I have enjoyed most is the challenge of playing with older kids who are faster and stronger than me,” Chamberlin said. “Also, it is fun being the only freshman on the team because I meet people from other grades.” Chamberlin has had to make a big jump to play for varsity, but his coach, Chris Purgatori, says he is handling it well. “He is willing to put in the work during our practices to get better,” Purgatori said. “He is very coachable and willing to do what it takes to make our team better.” Chamberlin is always improving his soccer skills and says he has been working very hard to better himself on the field. “I am constantly trying to get better
at soccer, and I’m going to try and get better technically because that is what I feel like I have to get better at the most,” Chamberlin said. “I am also going to run a lot so I can improve my stamina.” Chamberlin’s teammates say they have enjoyed having a freshman on the team. Sophomore Elijah Luca says he fits in well with the team and has grown over the course of the season. “We have enjoyed having him as a part of our family,” Luca said. “And [we] have helped him develop as a soccer player.” Being a freshman on varsity doesn’t come without its challenges. “He has never proved that he can’t play, just at times during games you want to roll with more experience,” Purgatori said. “He comes to practice the next day ready to work and improve so he can be the one with experience.” Chamberlin hopes to have a long career ahead of him at Rochester, and has some big aspirations for the future. “What I’m most looking forward to is hopefully winning a lot of leagues and finals in the future and hopefully becoming a captain someday,” Chamberlin said.
Griffin Chamberlin dribbles the ball during his game at RHS. Photo courtesy of Igor Baseski.
CAPTAIN’S QUOTES “Our season so far has been full of improvement and drive. Both have made us even more hungry for a championship in the future season.” Elizabeth Kravick, girls varsity cheer team captain
“I would say that this season has been one of our most successful ones and that our hard work, dedication, and teamwork has made everything extremely enjoyable and given us a chance to be league champs.” Rhea Gupta, girls varsity swim and dive captain