September Issue 2013

GROWING WEED:

Through legalization and misinformation, marijuana becomes an increasingly accepted drug in the American school system. Pages 10-11

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rochestertalon.com 180 S. Livernois Rochester Hills, MI 48307

Volume 76

for daily updates on student life, school events and entertainment

Issue 1

September 2013

THE TALON 2013-2014

NEWS I 2

SUICIDE IN A JAIL CELL S I SYDNEY BAMMEL

Amanda Berry (and her six-year-old daughter fathered by Castro), Georgina DeJesus and Michelle Knight were rescued from captivity in Cleveland, Ohio on May 6. On July 26, Ariel Castro pled guilty to 937 criminal counts of rape, kidnapping and aggrevated murder and was sentenced to life in prison.

Late one night at the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction Center two guards went to do a routine check on Ariel Castro. They found Castro at 9:20 p.m. on Sept. 3, hanging by his bed sheet; he was pronounced dead at 10:52 p.m.

Castro plead guilty to 937 changes including rape, kidnapping and aggravated murder. These charges came after neighbors found Amanda Berry, Gina DeJesus and Michelle Knight trying to escape from Castro’s home. The women were kidnapped over a period of two years (2002-2004) and have been held in Castro’s house for 10 years. The 53-year-old Castro was convicted of the charges involving these women in August.

“I think there is a number of reasons why Castro would commit suicide,” physcology teacher Ms. Caylan Cook

“I’m relieved to have that man off the planet, but he should’ve stayed in the justice system.”

MELANIE RAMIN, 12

SEPTEMBER 2013 SEPTEMBER

said. “For one, my hope would be guilt for what he had done.”

Castro’s had been charged with kidnapping three women and sexually and physically abusing them for more than 10 years.

“I think the three women will be very upset that he did not receive his full punishment,” senior Natalie Bigelow said.

“Yet, they will be relieved that he’s no longer alive.”

Some students don’t feel the same way about Castro’s suicide.

“I think it was a cowardly thing of him to do,” sophomore Kaitlyn Amit said. “It shows that he wasn’t able to go through what he did to the three women.”

Others think the event only made a terrible situation worse.

“Death is death, no matter whom it

“I don’t think he was able to handle prison.

I think that is kind of the easy way out of his punishment.”

ROXANNE BAZINSKI, 11

happens to,” junior Jono Mammel said.

“Yes, he was a monster, but a human life was ended and that’s still a shame.”

The body was released to Castro’s son on Sept. 4 and was sent to be cremated.

“I think Castro’s family didn’t want his body anymore,” junior Roxanne Bazinski said. “The body holds all this guilt and I don’t think they want his body on the earth anymore.”

Originally, Castro would have been up for the death sentence; however, he plead guilty to his crime and was given the verdict of life in prison, plus 1,000 years.

“I think there is a certain dignity element to [Castro killing himself],” Mammel said. “If I were him, I’d hate to have the humiliation of a state execution.

There is a certain perverse saying ‘I killed myself. You didn’t, I did.’”

“As bad as it sounds, I’m glad he killed himself.He was such a coward.”

JOHNNY MCCARTHY, 11

SARAH WALWEMA I D

THE TALON 2013-2014

NEWS I 3

RHS

RCS

On Sept. 11, the National Scholastic Press Association (NSPA) posted the finalists for the Pacemaker Award; The Talon was one of three high school newspapers in Michigan to make the list, along with Grosse Pointe North and Cranbrook. This means The Talon is one of the top high school newspapers nationwide.

Judges from the Miami Herald evaluated the aspects of coverage and content; evidence of in-depth reporting; layout and design; and photography, art and graphics.

“I’m more than pumped about the award,” journalism teacher Julia Satterthwaite said. “It’s like we’re going to the Super Bowl and we’ll find out in November if we’ve won at the JEA/NSPA Fall Convention in Boston.”

Also, senior and The Talon editor-in-chief, Camille Douglas, is one of 10 finalists for News Story of the Year from NSPA for her article on the Common Core State Standards from the February issue.

“It’s surreal,” Douglas said. “What an honor to be among the best in the country! I’m excited about going to see Boston because I’ve never been there before, and I’ve heard great things about it.”

STATE

The Common Core State Standards are learning targets for math and language arts for grades K-12 that have been adopted in 45 states across the nation, including Michigan.

According to the website, the Common Core State Standards mission is “to provide a consistent, clear understanding of what students are expected to learn, so teachers and parents know what they need to do to help them. The standards are designed to be robust and relevant to the real world, reflecting the knowledge and skills that our young people need for success in college and careers. With American students fully prepared for the future, our communities will be best positioned to compete successfully in the global economy.”

On Sept. 26, the Michigan House of Representatives came to a resolution to fund the standards. This is a victory for supporters of the Common Core; however, Representative Tom McMillin is disappointed in the overall resolution.

“I think we should have Michigan standards and I don’t think we should be nationalizing our standards,” McMillin said. “The states are too different the kids in Maine and the kids in rural Michigan don’t need to be taught the same things. “

SEPTEMBER SEPTEMBER 2013

Every Thursday many RCS teachers wear red to work as a show of support for family, both colleagues and personal families.

“We are wearing red shirts to show unity for our fellow co-workers because we’re in the midst of a contract negotiation and sometimes through hard times people need to know our coworkers have our backs,” math teacher and union representative Mr. Rob Byrd said. “The problem with the contract negotiation is it’s not done yet; school still started and technically we do not have a contract for this school year. I’m hoping for a settled contract that is fair.”

The REA hopes that the simple act of having 900-plus individuals resplendent in red will show a unified front to the administration, the community and the RCS Board of Education.

“It allows your REA Bargaining Team to speak with the full authority of the entire unit,” REA president Doug Hill said. “But once the day is done we take care of our families. We go home and leave work at work and be present for our loved ones.”

U.S. On Aug. 28, the Oxford English Online dictionary announced the list of 65 words that would be added to their lexicon. Many of the new words are indicative of new technology, slang and even questionable dance moves, such as “badassery,” “selfie” and “food baby.”

One of the words added was “twerk,” a verb that is defined as “a dance to popular music in a sexually provocative manner involving thrusting hip movements and a low, squatting stance.”

The buzz around this word came after the Video Music Awards on Aug. 25, when fomer Hannah Montana star, Miley Cyrus, was seen “twerking” on stage in front of an awestruck crowd and 10.1 million viewers.

“I think it’s cool that ‘twerking’ is being added to the dictionary,” junior Gabby Ratkowiak said. “The style of the dance is amazing. It’s a really good way to express yourself. Also, I think Miley really came out of her shell at the VMA’s and showed who she really is.”

Others disagree. “‘Twerking’ shouldn’t be in the dictionary because it’s a made-up word,” junior Shama Parika said. “Someone randomly associated it with shaking your rear end vigorously.”

WORLD

Syria is a nation in chaos as accusations spread about the government using chemical weapons on civilians, eliciting a debate about whether the U.S. should get involved.

Reports from the United Nations confirm a large chemical weapon assault took place on Aug. 21; however, the UN does not officially blame either side of the Syrian Civil War for the attack.

President Barack Obama was initially very interested in stepping in to stop these attacks, but later agreed with Russia’s plan to allow Syrian President Bashar Assad time to hand over chemical weapons.

“I think the U.S. should not get involved in Syria because we have our own problems (namely the health care system and the economy) to worry about,” junior Matt Schira said. “Also, the United Nations was created just for this very reason. To settle international turmoil.”

It will take the cooperation of all three nations’ governments to get the job done and could take up to a year.

The Syrian Civil War is reaching a stalemate and many think the U.S.’s involvement in Syria could tip the favor to the rebel force, which elicits mixed views because the rebel mission is unclear.

EMBERLY SKAGGS I D

THE DOCTOR IS IN...

4 I NEWS

A Detroit doctor gets in trouble for allegedly misdiagnosing patients.

S I Melanie Wong

Michigan physician Dr. Farid Fata has been indicted for defrauding the government of millions of dollars by allegedly intentionally misdiagnosing patients with cancer and billing Medicare for the claims.

Dr. Fata, an oncologist who owns Michigan Hematology Oncology Centers, was arrested in mid-August for supposedly prescribing unnecessary medical treatments, such as chemotherapy, to individuals who were in remission and no longer required this potent medication.

Through this practice, he may have scammed approximately $35 million out of the health care program over a two-year period.

Dr. Walter Wong, an oncologist at Aurora Medical Center in Kenosha, Wisconsin, believes that Dr. Fata’s alleged malpractice is shameful and may potentially tarnish the reputations of other respectable doctors in the same field.

“People tend to generalize,” Dr. Wong said. “Fortunately, people like Dr. Fata are rare.

In general, physicians take the Hippocratic Oath first, doing no harm.”

Science teacher Mrs. Sara Rosell, whose grandfather was treated by Dr. Fata, thinks he’s reprehensible.

“I am not sure how someone can sleep well at night knowing he is harming people simply for his own greed,” Mrs. Rosell said. “We always questioned the treatment my grandfather was receiving, and eventually he changed doctors as a result of our uncertainty. Who knows how much ‘extra’ treatment my grandpa received? He was one D I SYDNEY BAMMEL

THE TALON 2013-2014

FAST FACTS ABOUT DOCTOR FATA

Attended medical school in Lebanon

Owns clinics in Clarkston, Bloomfield Hills, Lapeer, Sterling Heights and Oak Park

of the lucky ones who is still around and has lived beyond his treatment.”

Another Rochester Hills patient of Dr. Fata, Mrs. Emily Wilson*, has been under Dr. Fata’s care for over two years and was startled to hear about his arrest.

“When I saw Dr. Fata in his office, my husband and I found him to be kind and reassuring,” Mrs. Wilson said. “I was shocked by his arrest, and after reading the charges against him, I had a hard time imagining him taking those actions.”

Mrs. Wilson firmly believes that people should not be so impetuous by judging him before knowing the legitimate facts of the case.

“I think it is very important to keep in mind that Dr. Fata is innocent until proven guilty,” Mrs. Wilson said. “At this point any misconduct is alleged, not proven.”

Dr. Fata’s Detroit offices and Oakland Township home were raided and medical records were seized by authorities to gather further evidence of these allegations. He is currently being held on a $9 million bond at Wayne County Jail. His trial is set for Oct.18, and, if convicted, he could face up to 20 years in prison.

Specializes in hematology, internal medicine and oncology

Is affiliated with St. Joseph Mercy Oakland and Crittenton Hospital Medical Center

Has a wife and three young children

Although people may find Dr. Fata’s alleged malpractice to be improper, some patients claim that he should be acquitted of the charges against him because he saved their lives. However, Dr. Wong believes this reasoning is not justifiable.

“What he did is unforgivable,” he said. “Even if you treated one hundred patients and one patient was misdiagnosed for cancer, that is one too many. Simply put, [he] should be held to the highest extent of the law.”

Mrs. Rosell agrees that saving one person’s life does not justify harming hundreds.

“I am happy for those he did treat properly and saved,” Mrs. Rosell said. “However, if someone on the streets shot another person, we wouldn’t just say, ‘well it’s okay, because last week they saved a kid from a burning house.’”

Senior Shitara Joya also believes that Dr. Fata’s reputation cannot be redeemed.

“His actions were atrocious to the point where patients are probably going to stop coming to his office,” Joya said. “It’s ironic actually: he schemed for two years, misdiagnosing patients in order to get more money. Now, his offices might close because of the scandal.”

Conversely, Mrs. Wilson

SCAN THE QR CODE TO WATCH A VIDEO ABOUT DR. FATA

believes that recovery for his alleged misconduct is possible.

“I believe strongly in redemption—that a person can make a terrible mistake, pay the consequences, and go on to a meaningful life,” Mrs. Wilson said. “But we are getting ahead of ourselves. He has not yet had his day in court.”

Throughout this controversy, it is important to acknowledge the various lessons derived from this incident.

“The important take-home message is, as a physician, patients come to you with their trust that you will take care of them,” Dr. Wong said. “When you misuse that trust for your own financial benefit with no regard to that patient and their family, then you are dealing with a heinous crime that cannot be forgiven.”

Mrs. Wilson believes there are other lessons to be learned.

“Our system only works if we hold ourselves and others to the standards we set. If we believe we see abuse, it is imperative to report it,” Mrs. Wilson said. “I try to remind myself that doing the right thing is often as simple as following the Golden Rule— treating others as we hope to be treated.”

Note: *Name changed due to pending litigation.

SEPTEMBER

FEATURE I 5

THE TALON 2013-2014

Soldiers of Fortune enjoys revitalized leadership S I OLIVIA BENNETT Touchdown. The football guys begin congratulating each other with helmet smacks, the cheerleaders chant and excitement spreads through the student section like wildfire. Soldiers of Fortune (SOF) co-leader David Mackens clangs the bell as students erupt in cheers.

Seniors David Mackens and Conner Pacella have taken the reigns of the student section and implemented changes.

“Has the SOF changed this year? Is that a rhetorical question?”

Mackens said. “Is the sky blue? Is the pope Catholic?”

SOF participation this year seems reminiscent of the Trevor Johnson/Gabe Gibbs days at RHS. “I never noticed how much the student section had died down until this year,” senior Natalie Bigelow said. “I’ve never been too interested in football games until this year. They definitely amped up the energy.”

Pacella and Mackens seem comfortable taking charge of the crowd.

“We literally yell at everyone in the crowd all the time,” Pacella said. “Singling people out to make them feel

SEPTEMBER

uncomfortable. Especially great experience and honor. the Max Harper.”

You get the chance to lead Some wonder if the in the activities, but also excitement level the SOF the chance to get everyone exhibited in the first few involved in it with you.” games will hold up all Pacella seems to have a season or if the SOF truly similar reaction to working has a new face. with Mackens.

“Oh no, we did. God “Our personalities create bless us. Scratch that, excitement ... together,” separation of church Pacella said. “They tell me and state. May whoever I’m the Gabe to David’s we believe in bless us,” Trevor.”

Mackens said. “But Getting younger seriously, the dedication students involved is one and of the biggest support challenges for of the the SOF. “You get the student “It’s chance to lead in body awesome the activities, but made the to be an the chance to get change. underclassman everyone involved in and feel They it with you.” might involved in have just CONNOR PACELLA, 12 the SOF,” needed a sophomore push.”

Maria Pacella also seems to be Broecker said. “Even auspicious about the fans though the seniors are this year. intimidating, being “This year the SOF has around them definitely loads of energy. It’s fun and makes football games the exciting,” co-leader Pacella highlight of my week.” said. “We have absolutely Mackens and Pacella transformed the games; hope to maintain the the student section is a level of excitement and thousand times better than involvement all year round. it was last year.”

“But seriously, come to Pacella and Mackens the football games … even don’t seem to have any if you don’t like football,” competition when it comes Pacella said. “It’s a really to co-leading. good excuse to stare at me “I’m co-leader, can’t for two hours.” forget Mr. Flopper Mackens sums up McGopplin (Pacella),” what the SOF is all about: Mackens said. “It’s both a “Support it. See it. Live it.”

Top: Seniors Alicia Smith, Kaitlyn Gensman, Conner Pacella, Randy Chuba, Mikayla Baxter, Sophia Menzo and Luke Brunson cheer on the Falcons against Clarkston with a black out theme. Above: 1. Senior Garrett Reedy waves the infamous SOF flag; 2. Sophomores Kaitlyn Dittmer, Leslie Nguyen, Anita Rak, Ryan Morgan, Maddie Moore and Andrew Sare show their school spirit; 3. SOF co-leaders Connor Pacella and David Mackens appear to have brought new energy to the SOF. Photos by Olivia Bennett

CAMILLE DOUGLAS & BILQEES SALIE I 5

6 I FEATURE

THE TALON 2013-2014

FEDS SEARCH FOR SPONSOR S I AUBREY RITZ

The Falcon Engineering Design Solutions (FEDS) robotics team has been around since 1998 and almost had to shut down because a Rochester Community Schools (RCS) employee sponsor wasn’t available. No knowledge of robotics is required by an employee to be a sponsor.

“This isn’t just for science teachers or math teachers,” lead mentor of the FEDS Raffi Dermanuelien said.

“English or history teachers would be helpful in the Public Relations group. An art teacher could help with animation. A business teacher could help with finances and sponsorships.”

Mr. Dermanuelien has been working with the team for six years; the other lead mentor Mr. Alan Wareham has been with the FEDS for four. Because of these involved professionals, the teacher sponsor is mostly involved with supervision and paperwork.

“Most of what a teacher would do is administrative and can be managed flexibly time-wise,” Mr. Wareham said. “We would like the teacher to be at the team meetings during the fall (Tuesday evenings in October and November) and then on a regular schedule during the build season.”

The build season begins in January and starts with a release of the game competition video. This triggers the start of six weeks consumed with planning and building a robot for the competitions against other schools.

“My favorite part of Robotics are the competitions because it’s rewarding to see everyone’s hard work on creating a robot,” senior Jenny Lee said. “Plus, it’s fun too.”

The potential disbanding of the FEDS had some students nervous.

“It will be bad if Rochester does not have a robotics team because many current and future students will miss out on a great opportunity to learn about robotics and gain useful skills for their futures,” junior Patrick Kane said.

The 29 team members were desperately asking teachers and sending emails to secure a sponsor from RHS, but to no avail.

“I think that there is an issue with the amount of time that is involved with being the club sponsor of a team that size,” math teacher and union representative Mr. Robert Byrd said. “There are school and district guidelines that are aimed to make our school a safe place to be, but can be kind of restrictive when it comes to how a club like Robotics can operate within the parameters of a school day or a work day.”

Unlike most clubs and sports, Robotics starts at 6 p.m. during the build season rather unlike other clubs which start directly after school, which may cause schedule problems for teachers and their families. Volunteering for a club is not necessarily the issue for teachers at RHS. “I wouldn’t say it’s not because the teachers aren’t stepping up, because we run over 20 different clubs here, and we run many clubs where teachers don’t even get paid for them,” principal Charles Rowland said. “They do it because they’re doing it for kids.”

Previous sponsor science teacher Sara Rosell has D I SARAH WALWEMA

Mentor Bill Nalu helps support a frame as junior Lauren Nasiadka welds the frame together for a practice course. Photo Courtesy of Alan Wareham

Senior Tim Pietrzyk observes junior Patrick Kane working the mill in the build shop. Photo Courtesy of Alan Wareham

The FEDS robot is taken into the pit between matches where it is adjusted and fixed for the upcoming game. Photo by Aubrey Ritz

been with the team for three years, acting as a personnel director from keeping track of finances to checking grades, as well as opening RHS went it is closed for the team. Other important commitments have led her to step down.

“With a young child, I do not have the time to devote to robotics, teaching and time with my family,” Mrs. Rosell said. “I found I was spread too thin last year, and felt I didn’t have enough time to spend with my daughter.”

Mrs. Rosell had only positive experiences to share about her time with the FEDS. “It is one of the most rewarding and exciting experiences I have had since being a teacher. It is incredible to see the effort and engineering that goes into the final product,” Mrs. Rosell said. “I am always amazed at the skills and new, creative ideas from students.”

On Sept. 20, members of the FEDS received an email from Mr. Dermanuelien announcing that Mrs. Rosell,

activities assistant Julie Harris and Mr. Rowland were able to secure co-sponsors, Marissa Nasiadka and Cheryl Cockerill.

“I suppose I am most excited about having a chance to give back to an organization that has done so much for our students, year after year,” Mrs. Cockerill said. “After all, Robotics is an incredible life experience for its members and the idea of losing the team is unthinkable. I am so pleased to be a part of this outstanding group!”

Mr. Wareham expanded on the benefits of joining a team such as the FEDS. “We’ve had students teach themselves how to program, some have developed their animation skills, others have learned to use heavy equipment in the machine shop (and have become quite skilled at it too), we even had a couple of girls who tried their hands at welding last year,” Mr. Wareham said. “Where else in high school could you have the opportunity to try all of that?”

SEPTEMBER

THE TALON 2013-2014

FEATURE I 7

WHO PAYS FOR YOUR

PARKING PASS?

2% OF STUDENTS SAID “I SPLIT IT WITH MY FRIENDS BY CARPOOLING.”

6% OF STUDENTS SAID “I SPLIT THE FEE WITH MY PARENTS.”

Photos by Kailie Fowler

Parking pass prices create controversy RCS’s $105 parking pass fee at all three high schools elicits a variety of responses.

S I KAILIE FOWLER Back to school checklist: $195 pay to participate fee for a fall sport (and $135 for the second sport and $80 for the third) - check. $30 club fee check. $15 Talon subscription - check. $65 yearbook - check. $20 homecoming ticket check. $105 parking pass check.

Senior Terron Dumars must pay about $430 at the start of the school year to be an involved, well-rounded student.

Many feel the costs associated with clubs and sports, as well as subscriptions to publications, SEPTEMBER

are worth it because they get something out of it, but they wonder if the $105 parking pass price is really necessary.

“My parents make me pay for gas on my own so I'm guessing I’d have to cover a parking pass on top of that,” junior Darienne Sautter said.

“It’s so expensive to get to school and back already as it is let alone us paying to park at school. It doesn't make any sense!”

The parking pass price at all three high schools is $105 and there appears to be no potential for change, as the cost covers the price of security for the lots.

“We do not anticipate a reduction in the costs associated with offering student parking,” community relations spokesperson Debra Hartmann said. “Complaints about parking passes being too costly are weighed against the cost of ensuring that parking lots are secure during the day, that

cars are properly marked with parking passes and that there are enough parking spaces for students.”

The lots are patrolled by Burr Security company.

“Kim Louis [monitors the lots],” Burr Security staff member Zach Fletcher said.

“She’s out there from 7:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. checking for parking passes and making sure no one skips school.”

Some students think the lots don’t really need securing and the cost should either be lowered or go toward something educational.

“I actually would like to see the money go towards new resources, like better computers for example,” senior Adrianna Peruzzi said. “It would be nice if they would tell us where the money goes in general.”

Some students are unable to afford the parking pass fee, even those on reduced lunch prices.

“Students who qualify for free or reduced lunch receive a discount on student activity fees,” Mrs. Hartman said. “However, the district does not currently offer a discount for parking passes.”

Another issue that arises is when students don’t purchase a pass and park in the lot anyway.

There is a clear protocol for how to handle such infractions.

“A warning sticker is placed on the car an administrative conference is held and revoke of parking lot privileges,” assistant principal Neil DeLuca said.

“And then recommendation for citation by the Oakland County Sheriff’s Department following a suspension from school.”

Some students are frustrated because they hear rumors of students parking without paying the fee.

“I honestly have no clue why we pay to park in a public parking lot, let alone pay $105,” Peruzzi said. “We aren’t even guaranteed a good parking spot.”

13% OF STUDENTS SAID “I

DON’T PAY FOR MY PASS AT ALL.”

25% OF STUDENTS SAID “I PAY FOR MY PASS.”

54% OF STUDENTS SAID “MY PARENTS PAY FOR MY PASS.”

NOTE: 278 RHS STUDENTS POLLED

DANIELLE KULLMANN I D

8 I FEATURE

THE TALON 2013-2014

Its shimmering gown of light, chiffon pink is elegant and tasteful.

Its sweetheart neckline is hugged by a row of gems and its short length makes it the perfect homecoming dress. This dress that she got online is particularly meaningful to freshman Lauren Janney after a long search for the right dress.

“When I found out that it came in the mail, I was so excited,” Janney said. “I put it on right away, and loved it.”

The plight of finding a homecoming dress can be quite challenging for some students, and usually, the dress is an

DANIELLE KULLMANN I D

PTSA and is excited to be part of the dress sale this year.

“My favorite part of the event will be seeing the happy girl who got a beautiful dress inexpensively,” Mrs. Treichel said. “I will also look forward to seeing the variety of dresses and calling the girls to come and pick up their money.”

Despite what dresses students this year are going to get, this homecoming definitely has a lot of expectations to live up to, especially for Janney.

“I’ve been excited since my first year of middle school, because my sister went to homecoming,” Janney said. “I’ve been waiting for this for three years.”

EMA

ALW HW

ARA

SIS

item of clothing that’s only worn a handful of times.

“I’ve got all my other dresses [from other dances],” senior Kelly Harlan said. “I was planning on donating all of them today at the dress sale.”

The Annual Dress Sale run by the Parent Teacher Student Association (PTSA) gives students the chance to sell dresses that they’ve worn and loved and buy ones that have been worn perhaps only once. It can be helpful for freshmen looking for the right first dress to their first formal dances.

“I’ll definitely check the dress sale out,” freshman Taylor Isenberg said. “I don’t see why I wouldn’t.”

The only rule for dresses to be accepted is that they’re gently used.

“The most quirky dress I’ve seen looked like a 1980’s purple ball,” counselor and former head of the dress sale Kelly MessingMirabito said. “It would have gone great with the big hair of the 80’s.”

Parent and PTSA member Wendy Treichel has spent 11 years volunteering in the Rochester Community Schools

Photos by Sarah Walwema

SEPTEMBER

THE TALON 2013-2014

FEATURE I 9

NEW MAN IN THE BUILDING

Q: WHAT ARE SOME RESPONSIBILITIES YOU HAVE AS ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL? A: Number one is working with students to help them be successful academically. If they’re having struggles with classes and they need someone to talk to and give suggestions to, I’m there to help. If they’re making poor choices behavioral wise, I try teaching them what to do next time and not repeat the same mistakes. I consider myself an educator and teacher still as assistant principal with students. I also want to work with the staff to help them be a resource in their classrooms, if they need support not just behaviorally but academically. We give them the professional development necessary for them to be successful. And the community just being available to everybody - either by phone or in person to answer questions, to give information. But the number one priority is to make this a safe learning environment.

ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL

Q: WHAT DOES A NORMAL DAILY ROUTINE LOOK LIKE? A: We’re always in the hallways and in the classrooms, a lot of paperwor. During the day we try to visit classrooms just to be part of the instruction for kids to see us as a support. Sometimes we have to deal with behavior issues, but that’s not the majority of what we do. Planning drills, fire drills, tornado drills, doing all the behind scenes. Being in a lot of meetings with teachers and students. We talk about the student’s academic success and what we can do to support them. I’m in charge of the critical incidence team; we have a team of teachers who get together we talk about what if an emergency were to happen what are we gonna do? We plan curriculum night, student-teacher conferences, all those events. We have a lot of behind-the-scenes things going on that students wouldn’t even know happen. We work with parents as well to listen to them and give them directions and support when necessary.

MR. PASQUALE CUSUMANO “I’m very happy to be here and I’m going to do my best to continue this tradition and contribute to making this the best place [to learn].”

Q: WHAT SCHOOL WERE YOU AT BEFORE RHS? A: I taught Spanish at Henry Ford High School for eight years and I was the assistant principal for Jeannette Junior High for three years.

MR. CUSUMANO, AP

Q: WHAT DO YOU EXPECT FROM STUDENTS HERE AT RHS? A: I expect them to be respectful, responsible adults because you guys are adults. I treat all students like adults. If you’re misbehaving then I might have to treat you a little differently, but if you give them that benefit of doubt, if you give them respect, you get it back. Studious, really do well in their classes, that’s the number one reason you guys are here. People have all the pep assemblies and all that but number one is to get you guys ready for college or a university or whatever else you’re gonna do when you get out. So taking class seriously, being respectful and responsibility.

Q; DO YOU HAVE ANY HEROES? EXPLAIN. A: I’d say a hero of mine would be Mike Krzyzewski; he’s the basketball coach for Duke and his book is one of my favorites to read. It just talks about leadership and how to run an organization and how to get people to trust you, and how to build a huge organization and he’s a great leader and I look up to him. He does things the right way, his teams are always disciplined and they play the right way. They lose and win the right way. I always took him as an example.

Q: WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE THING TO DO OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL? A: Spend time with my kids; I have two young kids, a six-year-old and a four-yearold. I like to spend time with my family. I also like to workout, run, lift weights, play tennis, play basketball ... I like to do sports and stay healthy. My favorite sport I have to say basketball. I coached basketball so I enjoy basketball.

Q; WHAT’S THE BIGGEST LESSON YOU’VE EVER LEARNED? A: About trust. If you don’t have trust with people and people don’t trust you, you’re not going to be very successful. No matter what you wanna do, you have to build that trust with people and I’m talking about my school experience, my life experience, relationships … you have to trust the person you’re with or else it’s gonna not gonna be a good relationship, so I just think trust is very important. I’ve learned that lesson that no matter what you want to do, the first thing you have to do is build trust with people around you.

Q: WHAT ARE YOUR PERSONAL GOALS FOR THIS YEAR? A: I want to get to know as many people as possible: students, staff and community members, and build my reputation. I want to be supportive of everybody. I want to work the hardest I can work to be successful and make Rochester even better because it’s a great place to be. I want to be a part of that with my team, with the staff, with my students.

­ Q: DO YOU HAVE ANY LAST WORDS YOU’D LIKE TO SAY TO RHS? A: I thank everybody for welcoming me into this district, into the schools. It’s been a great first month and a half. I love it here already and I’ve only been here for a while, but it’s a great community. I’m very happy to be here and I’m going to do my best to continue this tradition and contribute to making this the best place in Michigan and in the world.

SEPTEMBER

OLIVIA BENNETT I D

10 & 11 I FEATURE

THE TALON 2013-2014

MARIJUANA facts

and then I asked,

“

ACCORDING TO A 2009 NATIONAL SURVEY, ABOUT 1/3 OF THE GENERAL POPULATION OVER 12 HAS TRIED MARIJUANA

‘

MARIJUANA IS THE MOST COMMON ILLEGAL DRUG USED IN THE UNITED STATES

S I DANIELLE KULLMANN

RISE IN MARIJUANA USAGE

LONG-TERM EFFECTS

ONE STUDENT’S STORY

Counselor Mrs. Jennifer O’Toole-Seyka believes that a major reason behind this rise in marijuana usage is a result of students avoiding their problems without knowing the major effects of marijuana. This idea that marijuana is a “safe” drug may have arisen due to recent legislation regarding its legalization as well as the growing usage of medical marijuana. According to the Michigan Medical Marijuana Association (MMMA), medical cards for marijuana can be issued to anyone over 21 for reasons ranging from back pain to cancer.

“I think there’s definitely a lack of information for kids and unfortunately having the medical (marijuana) cards created a lot of confusion about if it’s really harmful or not,” Mrs. O’Toole-Seyka said. “I’m one to say that your brain is developing as an adolescent so any foreign substance that is not meant to be there that you add to that can have a different, [negative] effect.”

“I don’t think anyone should be using marijuana because a teen’s mind is still developing and when exposed to foreign chemicals from marijuana could change how we grow up,” junior Aaron Adijiwada said.

“Addictions will be harder to get rid of since that student is using it in high school and will probably continue into adulthood.”

Although no one has ever had an overdose from marijuana, it can have many negative long-term effects on a young brain. Not only is marijuana a highly addictive substance, but according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIH) it can cause schizophrenia, impair memory, lower IQ and increase one’s risk of many different ailments from anxiety to dependence.

Mrs. O’Toole-Seyka believes that avoiding one’s problems by smoking weed is often just causing a long-term problem through a temporary solution.

“If you get used to smoking weed when you’re stressed or when you come home, you become that habit,” Mrs. O’Toole-Seyka said.

“So as you continue to progress through life you may have these different coping strategies that may work for you now but they won’t work later on. When you’re stressed at work you can’t just smoke weed; you can’t continue to do the same behaviors when you grow up.”

Junior Alex Machilson* sits in AP Government in a haze. This is the second time he’s done this-come to school high. His school day whips along as his heart beats faster than his normal resting heart rate. He feels great: dopamine is flooding his brain cells-the world is brighter than usual-at the same time his brain function, coordination and balance are being disrupted by the flood of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) to his cerebrum.

According to research done at the University of Michigan, there have been significant increases in marijuana usage in high school students since 2001. By senior year, at least 6.5 percent of students are smoking marijuana every day.

High school students start smoking weed for a variety of different reasons ranging from curiosity to avoidance to boredom to pressure.

Machilson* started smoking in his freshman year and continued because of the friends he made who did the same thing.

“I’ve met a lot of my good friends and it’s a great social experience, in my opinion,” Machilson said. “It also gives me something to look forward to if things are getting stressful.”

Machilson*, who considers himself a decent student with good grades, has considered the negative effects of weed; however, he continues to use it because he feels it makes his life easier.

“I’ve come to school high a handful of times.

It has made subjects in school more interesting to me,” Machilson* said. “ I was able to become friends with my co-workers much quicker once we talked about smoking.”

THE INFREQUENT USER Senior Betty Draplin* only tried weed once and said she wouldn’t necessarily be opposed to doing it again; after all, her friends do it all the time. Marijuana’s stress-relieving effects are often cited by students; however, after a high, marijuana can produce panic, sleepiness, depression or other symptoms.

“The only thing marijuana really did was make me worry about things less,” Draplin* said. “I felt very carefree.”

Its long-term effects on young brains can be even worse.

EDUCATION Draplin* believes that efforts to prevent students from using drugs don’t work out because of misinformation.

“Elementary and middle school ‘drug-free’ assemblies don’t do anything because it’s all about fear and not facts,” Draplin* said. “They make it seem like if you do weed suddenly you are a horrible person who is going nowhere in life and that’s not always the case.”

It may not be the case that everyone who smokes or tries weed may get addicted nor that everyone who does so is ruining his or her life, which is why junior Marie O’Donnell* believes information about marijuana legislation and legalization should be given to citizens and students in a straightforward and readily available matter.

“Our school often simply ignores people doing weed which leads to more ignorance about it,” O’Donnell* said. “The truth is if it actually were regulated and taxed like alcohol or cigarettes are then less people would do it because people would be more open about it and know much more about it.”

DENIAL

Mrs. O’Toole-Seyka says that the majority of students who come to her with a weed addiction are in a state of denial about the severity it, as are their families. Perhaps this is because some students who smoke weed see it as a positive aspect of their life.

“Smoking brings me joy,” Machilson* said.

“The memories I have with my friends are priceless to me.”

This positive attitude toward weed is often what pulls people in-as the long-term effects seem very distant. Avoiding wanting to smoke weed can often be difficult.

“I changed my ideas about weed because although it sounds cliché-all my friends were

doing it and I wanted to have fun, try new things, and be ‘wild,’” Draplin* said.

ACCOUNTABILITY NEEDED TO QUIT Mrs. O’Toole-Seyka believes that the friend group one spends time with is a large factor in whether or not a student will experiment with marijuana.

“Although it is easier said than done sometimes because I know students get offered it and told about it, but I do think that having a support person kind of a really good friend to help support you in your decision-making then you can get through,” Mrs. O’Toole-Seyka said.

“Also, if you don’t say no to this what else won’t you say no to? It’s really important that you have your morals and know how to stick behind them.”

According to drugabuse.gov, in 2007 18.8 percent of tenth and twelfth graders had smoked marijuana in the past month. Although the numbers seem low to some, to high school students it seems as if “everyone does it.”

“If it’s not marijuana, it’s Molly or something of that sort,” O’Donnell* said. “It isn’t just trouble-makers or people who are in lower-level classes who smoke weed. It’s scattered-there are people in AP classes, in regular classes in remedial classes. If you ask around, you’re bound to find someone who has tried it in a matter of seconds. The reasoning everyone has to back them up is the same-‘everyone’s tried it-so why shouldn’t I?’” *All names with an asterisk have been changed in order to protect and maintain the anonymity of those individuals who were interviewed.

ACCORDING TO ONE REPORT, IT WOULD TAKE JOINTS TO KILL A PERSON—BUT THE CAUSE OF DEATH WOULD BE CARBON MONOXIDE POISONING

800

CANNABIS SEEDS WERE USED AS A FOOD SOURCE IN CHINA AS EARLY AS 6000 B.C.

THE NAME MARIJUANA COMES FROM A MEXICAN SLANG TERM FOR CANNABIS AND IS BELIEVED TO HAVE DERIVED FROM THE SPANISH PRONUNCIATION OF THE NAMES MARY AND JANE

THE FIRST LAW IN THE AMERICAN COLONIES REGARDING MARIJUANA WAS A 1619 LAW THAT REQUIRED FARMERS TO GROW THE HEMP PLANT

SOURCES: RANDOMHISTORY & NATIONAL INSTITUTE ON DRUG ABUSE D I DANIELLE KULLMANN

SEPTEMBER

12 I LIFESTYLES

THE TALON 2013-2014

TOP 5

PLACES TO STUDY

S I CAMILLE DOUGLAS

3 PANERA BREAD

1 LIBRARY Atmosphere: Like any other library, it's quiet. Because of this, one can easily concentrate on their work. No matter how busy it may be, the library has plenty of room and is furnished with desks and seating throughout the building. One is also able to rent a separate room with their library card if wanting to seek more privacy.

Location: Downtown Rochester Crowdedness: 8 Loudness: 2 Food/ Drink: Although there is are a couple of vending machines on the main floor, the library does not offer any meals to its customers. With that said, it is best to pack a snack before heading over.

Flaws: Although the library offers some great study time for students, in order to access wireless connection, one must have a library card.

Best time to come: Anytime.

Atmosphere: Panera is a good place to relax, offering comfortable booths and a colorful decor. The seating areas are large with plenty of places to sit. One can bring their laptop and surf the internet because Panera offers a free wireless connection.

Location: Corner of Walton and Livernois Road Having it be located right across the school makes it so much easier for one to be able to transport themself.

Crowdedness: 5 Loudness: 5 Food/ Drink: Famous for its wide range of delicious food, Panera Bread is sure to have it all.

Flaws: The noise becomes slightly distracting after the dinner rush.

Best time to come: After 6 in the evening.

4 DOWNTOWN CAFE Atmosphere: A simply, quiet atmosphere allows one to be able to relax while studying.

Location: Downtown Rochester Crowdedness: 5 Loudness: 6 Food/ Drink: Downtown Cafe is an actual sit-down restraurant, offering full meals.

Flaws: Downtown Cafe does not offer free Wi-Fi, and the dinner rush for the night does cause some crowdedness within the restraurant.

Best time to come: After 5 in the evening or on the weekends.

5.5/10 2 DESSERT OASIS

5 BEAN & LEAF

Atmosphere: The posters, the ingénue art display, the old furniture, the magazine cutout covered table tops give the café a unique, yet comforting vibe. Unlike the library, Dessert Oasis offers free wireless connection.

Location: Downtown Rochester Crowdedness: Depends on the time you go.

Loudness: Similar to the crowdedness, it depends.

Food/ Drink: Famous for their coffee roast, Dessert Oasis is sure to have the perfect blend.

They also offer a variety of baked treats, most from homemade.

Flaws: Although the offering of live music every night seems great, the music does attract many customers and the loudness it creates does get quite distracting, especially when one is trying to concentrate.

Best time to come: In the morning on the weekends or right after school.

Atmosphere: Bean and Leaf offers a typical café-like vibe. Soft music plays in the background to induce relaxation. Although it offers free Wi-Fi, it becomes difficult for one to thoroughly study their academics due to the crowdeness.

Location: Downtown Rochester Crowdedness: 8 Loudness: 7 Food/ Drink: Bean and Leaf offers a wide range of teas and coffees along with some pastries that is sure to satisfy one’s taste buds.

Flaws: Because Bean and Leaf is a smaller café, it becomes difficult to find an open table while there are so many other people trying to find room to study there as well.

Best time to come: On the weekends.

D I CAMILLE DOUGLAS & MAURA LOSH

7/10

4 /10

SEPTEMBER

THE TALON 2013-2014

GET OFF YOUR COUCH, GRAB YOUR FRIENDS AND PARTICIPATE IN A 5K FOR CHARITY.

LIFESTYLES I 13

run r dye

S I KAILIE FOWLER Drive. No, not getting in your car and driving to the store or to hang out with friends. Drive, the kind that comes from within. That stuff deep inside that pushes you to your breaking point but doesn’t break you.

That thing inside that motivates you to be a better person, student or athlete. Balancing staying in shape, sports, jobs and school as well as having a decent social life can be hard, but students can make it happen.

One thing that makes meshing several of one’s interests into one activity are 5Ks such as Run or Dye or Brooksie Way, which help one stay in shape, give back to the community and provide an opportunity for fun with friends.

Not many high school kids have the drive to run a 5K for charity, but for those who seek to have a long, healthy life that includes helping others, it’s an easy way to get started.

Not only are 5Ks a great way to raise money for charity, they are also a great way to stay in shape mentally and physically.

Many teens do not realize what they are doing to their bodies has the potential to have long-term negative effects. Teens are known for lounging on the couch and watching television or scanning social media (or both) while eating fast food or some other convenient and cheap, but extremely unhealthy meal. Don’t be a stereotype.

Instead of developing life-long bad habits, why not gather up a group of friends that share the same drive and do a 5K together?

The most amazing feeling ever is running the 3.2 miles and crossing the finish line with your friends thinking, “We did it.”

If you’re not the running type, doing community service such as helping out at a soup kitchen or volunteering at a senior citizen center are also great examples of how kids can get off the couch and out of their comfort zones to do something good for others. Build these helpful habits into your life now and it’ll become second-nature.

Students who go out of their way to help others out of the pure satisfaction of seeing their hard work go to a great cause are truly inspiring. So run to your friends, parents and teachers. Tell them you are driven to help others and develop healthy, helpful habits now. Inspire them to join you. Building in little things like this now will be a source of inspiration and make helping others habit. It’s a win-win for everyone. Just do it.

Juniors Chawan Fitzgerald, Leah Richards and Kailie Fowler celebrate with a crowd of runners by throwing color into the sky after The Color Run, also known as the “Happiest 5K On the Planet.” The for-profit company The Color Run partners with local non-profits to put the $45/person or $40/team member entry fees to good use. Photo Courtesy of Kailie Fowler

Participants of the 5K get powdered paint thrown on them during the run.

There are only two rules in the un-timed race: 1. Wear white at the starting line, 2. Finish plastered in color. Photo by Kailie Fowler

Fitzgerald and Richards blow powdered paint at each other at the Run or Dye 5K race. The motto of this run is: “Be happy. Be healthy. Be you.” Photo by Kailie Fowler

SEPTEMBER

COLETTE CLOUTIER I D

PLIGHT OF THE WRITTEN WORD THE TALON 2013-2014

THE

14 I LIFESTYLES

AS THE RISE OF EBOOKS THREATEN TO DOMINATE THE WRITTEN WORLD, STUDENTS WEIGH IN ON THE PROS AND CONS OF READING IN THE MODERN ERA. S I AMBIKA VOHRA

most students had strong opinions.

“E-books take the fun out of reading,”senior Pranita Balusu, an avid Amazon’s e-reader, the Kindle, reader, said. “The feeling of physically has been becoming increasingly more turning pages is just irreplaceable.” popular. E-books are cheaper than print Sally Banwarth, who owns books, and while Barnes and Nobles has a sweet smell of cappuccinos permeating Downtown Booksellers with her husband, Mr. Tom Banwarth, reported throughout, e-books can be more that many of her customers feel the same convenient. way as Balusu.

“I like that book tablets are light,” “I have a lot of people who mention senior Priti Patel said. “They can store so they would never use a Kindle or an many books, way more than I could ever e-book because they prefer the paper carry in my hands.” in their hands,” Mrs. With Amazon’s MRS. JULIE KUSLITS Banwarth said. recent release of the BEFORE I COMMIT TO BUYING A Mrs. Banwarth also new and improved BOOK, I ALWAYS USE THE AMAZON reported that in spite of Kindle, Paperwhite, FEATURE WHERE I CAN ACTUALLY the general decline of there is more hype “LOOK” INSIDE THE BOOK. I ALSO bookstores, her famous than ever. As of the LIKE THEIR READER REVIEWS. LOVE corner store that sells Paperwhite’s new THIS TECHNOLOGY! rare and used books has release, the company TEACHER TIP OF THE MONTH remained unaffected. has about 60% of She had more sales this the e-reading market year for the month of August than the in the US. This new model has a new previous year. built in lighting technology that offers a brighter display for reading in the “I have seen no recent change in sunlight, a no-glare screen that claims to customer flow,” Mrs. Banwarth said. “In be so white it looks just like paper and fact, many people say that they could a long battery life. Many are concerned not find a book at Barnes and Nobles, that the joy of words will be lost within and they instead come to us to order it the pixels of a screen. When asked about because it is out of print.” the battle between e-books and the Mrs. Banwarth also emphasized potentially dying breed of print books, the “up close and personal” feel of her HOW DO YOU READ THE WRITTEN WORD?

“

NEITHER

10%

D I MELODY ZHANG

EBOOKS

15%

store. When scrolling through e-books on a Kindle, readers may get automated responses of what is recommended for them. However, Mrs. Banwarth personally not only gives customer recommendations, but receives them as well.

“I recently read ‘A Walk in the Woods’ by Bill Bryson just because it was recommended to me by a customer,” Mrs. Banwarth said enthusiastically. “I ended up enjoying it thoroughly because I am an avid hiker and my customer knew this.”

This customer interaction is nonexistent on the e-book models, and Mrs. Banwarth firmly confirmed that she will never switch to e-books and will continue to keep her books strictly in-store. In spite of this vintage ambiance Downtown Booksellers projects, Mrs. Banwarth still utilizes an online website where customers can make purchases and book selections. Perhaps such technology cannot perfectly mimic the effect of holding a book, but true to its name, maybe the new and improved Kindle can rekindle interest in the written word.

“I am still going to read no matter what the medium,” sophomore Divya Iyer said. “Swiping and flipping is just different, but neither is right.”

OUT OF 20 PEOPLE POLLED

Q & A WITH SOPHOMORE DIVYA IYER

Do you prefer e-books or print books?

I prefer print books. It is good to have something material in your hands, and it gives you a connection to the book.

What about the beach? Are Kindles more convenient?

I would still take a print book because when it’s bright out and you have to turn the brightness up, it’s really annoying.

Would you rather curl up with a movie or a book?

For me, if I am having a relaxing evening alone, I would pick a book. But if I was having a more social or upbeat night, I would want to watch a movie.

Do you think students have stopped reading?

No. I think people read, it’s just what they read is different.

Not many people read print books. Now even in some elementary schools, they teach you to read and study on iPads instead of books. And as for older students, most of them just read social media websites.

Have you used a Kindle? What did you think?

Yes, I have used a Kindle. It’s definitely more convenient, which is key, but there’s something about flipping pages.

Swiping and flipping is just different. It also hurts my eyes to look at the screen. I’d rather look at pages.

Is Barnes and Nobles the only bookstore you know of?

Definitely not. I used to go to Borders until it closed, and now I go to book sections of department stores and the bookstore in Downtown Rochester.

PRINT BOOKS

75%

SEPTEMBER

ENTERTAINMENT I 15

THE TALON 2013-2014

Senior Vanessa Rodriguez bows in front of a standing ovation in a packed theatre. She’s had to commit a lot to this show. Tonight, as her friends were dancing to the typical homecoming songs and eating out in fancy dresses that they bought specifically for that night, she sacrificed her evening for this performance. She missed the Homecoming dance to participate in a community theatre performance. And in this moment, as well as many others she has had throughout the night, she doesn’t regret a second of it.

“Being a part of a show is a very big commitment,” Rodriguez said.

“Rehearsals and show dates often conflict with other events which can sometimes cause problems. It’s a bummer, but the outcome is worth it.”

Rodriguez, who has participated in numerous shows starting with Summer Music Theatre’s (SMT) “Beauty and the Beast” after being inspired by her older sister, wouldn’t give up her experiences in theatre productions for anything.

“Cliché as it may sound, theatre has honestly shaped me into the person I am today,” Rodriguez said. “I’ve learned teamwork, perseverance, the importance of strong work ethic, discipline, patience, tradition and love.”

Two of the most popular community theaters for students are Avon Players and Stagecrafters. According to the Marketing Manager of Stagecrafters, Colleen Muench, most students who participate in a production keep coming back.

“Theatre is such an incredible opportunity for students to express themselves dramatically and to learn/polish life skills such as time management, speaking in front of a crowd, working as a team and confidence in what they do,” Mrs. Muench said.

Like Rodriguez, senior Carolyn Janney has a special connection that she developed to community theatre both because of her parent’s previous involvement in it and more.

“The theater is a place of solitude for me because of that history my parents have performing there and the shows that I have done,” Janney said. “I enjoy volunteering and having fun in a place I am appreciated.”

Community theater has not only given Janney a place of solitude but also one of growth, as it allowed her to become more confident with herself and overcome her struggle of having a stutter.

“Community theatre has had a positive impact on my life because it helped me overcome my stutter, [with] speaking problems and [taught me to] be braver in front of a crowd,” Janney said. “I have become a better person because of it and have taken action to lead the theatre club this year.”

Although many people assume participating in a theatre production means performing, many students work backstage. The task of coming together and creating a performance may be daunting, but according to junior Aaron Koss, once one gets involved you realize how much fun it is.

“Those who are looking at starting should know that while it is a lot of hard work, it does pay off,” Koss said. “Honestly, you should always try to have fun with it, no matter how scared you get at first.”

COMMUNITY THEATRE : Students at RHS perform in shows at Stagecrafters and Avon Players to display their theatrical gifts.

S I DANIELLE KULLMANN

TOP PICKS OF THE MONTH iOS 7 SOFTWARE

by Apple

Apple’s brand-new software update iOS 7 is a big makeover. The first thing that people will notice is the drastic new appearance- the icons look flat and thin, opposed to the bulging, 3-D look of the past. The lock screen has been given an appealing new design as well.

As for new features, the handiest one would have to be the Control Center, which lets you turn on/off the wifi and other features, adjust the SEPTEMBER

brightness, and access your music, camera, flashlight, timer or calculatorall from just swiping up from the bottom of any screen. It makes you wonder how they didn’t think of this years ago.

Just in time with the release of the new iPhone 5s and 5c, Apple’s new iOS 7 operating system offers a big change in look, useful new features and improvements upon the last version.

9/10

NOTHING WAS THE SAME

by Drake

In a few short years, the halfJewish, Canadian rapper/singer Drake has evolved from an improbable success to one of hip-hop’s biggest superstars.

His third album, “Nothing Was The Same,” continues his remarkable run of consistency. It showcases his incredible versatility as a hitmaker; it’s hard to think of any other artist who could land top-ten hits with two songs as stylistically different as the

aggressive summer anthem “Started From the Bottom” and the soft disco ballad “Hold On, We’re Going Home.”

Though more subdued than an average mainstream rap album, Drake impresses with his delivery and a wide range of emotion that no other rapper would dare to approach.

“Nothing Was The Same” justifies why Drake has become one of the best current artists in hip-hop.

7.5/10

DANIELLE KULLMANN I D

16 I ENTERTAINMENT

TOP FIVE

‘1D in 3D’ is a hit

SUMMER CONCERTS OF 2013 S I MELANIE WONG

BEYONCÉ

S I EMBERLY SKAGGS

One Direction, a record-breaking boy band who originated from the United Kingdom, continues to climb the charts; however, it’s not the music charts this time around, but the movie charts. According to Box Office Mojo, “This Is Us” reigns in a total of $26,887,000 in its first three weeks making it number eight in the Box Office.

The story is about five lads and their journey from the X-Factor television show to the center of stadiums filled with screaming pre-teen girls. Louis Tomlinson, Zayn Malik, Niall Horan, Harry Styles and Liam Payne show off not only their devotion to their careers, but their shining personalities and mischievous minds throughout the film.

No amount of stage management can stop genuine emotions from seeping through, and the audience is likely to find their cynicism crumbling in the face of the lads’ sheer, happy energy and down-to-earth charm.

It’s enjoyable even if you’re not a prepubescent girl caught up in the One Direction lovefest.

Although the boys show great qualities, their management controls what they can and cannot do. Simon Cowell, for example, has banned Horan from dying his hair to any color but blonde. Management is trying to portray only the details they want the world to see, not the full story.

Tomlinson, Malik, Horan, Styles and Payne catch the hearts of not only their fans, but also the critics and music junkies around the globe. The movie shows who they are as people and how much they genuinely care for each other and their fans.

The boys have an interesting story behind their success. Fortunately for the fans, the movie captures most of it, including their shenanigans, and their love and devotion to their fans.

There’s nothing that’s going to replace being with tens of thousands of screaming One Direction fans at a concert, but movie director Morgan Spurlock offers an exceptional surrogate with this film. In the universe of concert movies “One Direction: This Is Us” is definitely at the top of the charts.

D I CAMILLE DOUGLAS

THE TALON 2013-2014

Date: 7/20/13 at The Palace of Auburn Hills Opening Act(s): Luke James “[The concert] was an unbelievable experience.

She was super fierce and all of her costumes were incredible. The set was amazing and her performance was UNREAL. Her singing and dancing were outstanding and she even flew halfway through the show. It was by far the best concert I have ever experienced. Beyoncé is perfection.”

-Vanessa Rodriguez, 12

JUSTIN TIMBERLAKE/ JAY-Z Date: 8/6/13 at Ford Field Opening Act(s): None “The show was great! They had a DJ warm up the crowd from 8-9, and then Jay-Z and JT switched back and forth from 9-11:30 or so. It was a really good production, and the sound was much better at Ford Field than I thought it would be.

The atmosphere was great because everyone just wanted to party and have a good time.”

-Mr. Rob Byrd, teacher

WIZ KHALIFA/ ASAP ROCKY Date: 7/31/13 at DTE Energy Music Theatre Opening Act(s): Joey Bada$$, Pro Era, Trinidad James, B.o.B, Berner, Chevy Woods, Smoke DZA “The atmosphere was energetic and hyped up!

Everyone was having a good time and making new friends. [Khalifa] is a great artist onstage; he put on a good show.” -Austin Wright, 12

BIG SEAN Date: 8/31/13 at DTE Energy Music Theatre Opening Act(s): None “[The venue] wasn’t as crowded as the other concerts I’ve been to, but I couldn’t hear as well. But he was great and brought special guests onstage, which was exciting!” -Kayla Christensen, 11

JONAS BROTHERS Date: 7/13/13 at DTE Energy Music Theatre Opening Act(s): Karmin “The atmosphere was super exciting! Their performance was really upbeat and had a party-ish vibe. Everyone was dancing and singing along [to their songs]. It was also really loud.”

-Trisha Gupte, 10

AFFLECK IS CHOSEN AS NEW BATMAN S I EDGAR SOKOLI

There is a new Batman in town. Ben Affleck has replaced Christian Bale as the new “Dark Knight.” After Bale had overwhelming success in “The Dark Knight” trilogy, the selection of Affleck, former superhero in “Daredevil,” has gotten mixed responses.

“I think it’s going to be forced down our throats,” self-proclaimed superhero movie expert Mr. Chad Zwolinski says.

“I don’t think [future Batman movies] will be quality movies.”

Affleck attained the role in the new “Superman vs. Batman” movie set to release sometime in 2015 after the switching of directors from Christopher Nolan to Zack Snyder. The director change didn’t sit well with former Batman Christian Bale, leaving the door

open for Ben Affleck to step in.

A lot of talk centered on the fact that Affleck is now the new Batman rather than the fact that the next movie is a Superman sequel to “Man of Steel.”

“The next movie is supposed to be a Superman movie, right? Then why is the sequel all about Batman? Just doesn’t make any sense to me,” Mr. Zwolinski said.

However, junior Jonathon Markwort thinks differently.

“Despite having several high profile flops, [Affleck] has skill that shows in his role in ‘Argo’ and other movies,” Markwort said.

Mr. Zwolinski agrees to some extent.

“Although it doesn’t fit his career mold, he’s proven as a really good director/actor and he’s maturing in his career as he’s getting older,” Mr.

Zwolinski said.

Even with the praise that Affleck was given for his role in “Argo,” junior Mike Halsey disagrees with the decision to cast Affleck as the next Batman.

“I think he’s a weird looking guy,” Halsey said. “He’s ruined more movies than not that he’s been in.”

There has been a petition set up by John Roden of Cincinnati, Ohio to the Warner Brothers company for them to “uncast” Ben Affleck from the movie.

The petition has 93,000+ supporters; however, Mr. Zwoliniski’s pumped about the movie either way.

“Oh no. You could throw Mr. Rowland in as Batman and I would still watch it,” Mr. Zwolinski said. “It’s Batman. It’s a train wreck, but you still watch because you don’t know what’s going to happen.”

SEPTEMBER

THE TALON 2013-2014

STAFF EDITORIAL: $105 parking passes don’t seem worth it The fee to park at any of the three high schools is a whopping $105 this year. This fee is outrageously high for a typical student in the school who not only has to pay for parking, but also for numerous other activities and add-ons. A fairly active senior at Rochester High might participate in three clubs ($30/club) and a fall sport ($195). Add in the additional costs of a yearbook ($65), The Talon subscription ($20), and homecoming ticket ($20), the senior is expected to pay almost $500 before the year has even started.

This doesn’t include the other seemingly ‘mandatory’ items and accommodations that seniors much purchase, including, but not limited to, the cap and gown sets, special studio senior pictures, the senior all-night party, prom … the list goes on.

Many students question where the money goes to and the administration claims the money feeds into security measures.

However, there is evidence against the consistency and effectiveness of this supposed security. For example, on the second week of school, there was report that a student’s window was smashed and the security was only notified after the incident by

OPINION I 17

The Talon Staff Mrs. Julia Satterthwaite, Adviser Camille Douglas, Editor-in-Chief Danielle Kullmann, Web/Design Editor Sydney Bammel, News Editor Sarah Walwema, Feature Editor Olivia Bennett, Lifestyles Editor A.J. Prisciandaro, Entertainment Editor Melody Zhang, Opinion/Photo Editor Zach Libby, Sports Editor

“The price is too high and it should be less because we don’t reserve the same spot everyday for the same person.”

“The parking pass price is high. I don’t personally pay out of pocket for mine but I have apathy for my friends and other parents that do have to pay for theirs. We’re forced to go here, why should we pay to park here?”

MATT BYRON, 12

KAILIE FOWLER, 11

the student himself. Moreover, there has been more than one report on missing items from the parking lot. A final piece of evidence about the inconsistency is the fact that not everyone pays to park and some even get away with it. If a law-abiding student pays their $105 to park in a parking lot, they deserve real and consistent security at the very least.

A serious fault in the payto-park fiasco is the fact that students who qualify for free or reduced lunch don’t get a discount. This inevitably creates even more glaring socioeconomic gaps between among the student body than there already evident.

Those who are unable to afford the parking passes due to the weight of other fees they must pay are forced to ride the bus

despite the fact that they have access to a car. If the school’s aim is to make opportunities and privileges equal to all classes, herein is an issue they must address.

Administrators may argue that students can lessen the fee by splitting it between friends and carpooling to school together; however, both the state and school districts agree that the risk of teenage driving accidents is far too high, being that 60 percent of teenagers encounter their first accident within the first year of driving. It is thus considered considerably unsafe for multiple teenagers to be in a single car, where the risk of damage is even higher. Additionally, the idea of carpooling with others is exceedingly improbable in

“The price is too expensive. We shouldn’t have to pay this much for just coming to school.”

PAIGE FARNSWORTH, 12 that most students have varying after-school schedules and are incapable of carpooling; after school clubs, sports schedules, meetings, events, and work schedules all fall into the pool of interference.

The parking lot fees are too high for sustainable living for a typical student, and for no liable reason. If students are expected to pay more than a hundred dollars for a space in the lot, they deserve to gain something tangible from it at the very least.

Security measures should be strengthened even more than they are now, crackdowns on students who attempt to park without passes should occur and free/reduced parking pass options should become available to make access to the parking lot accessible for all students.

THE “NEW” AND “IMPROVED” WINDOWS 7 CAUSES FRUSTRATION AT RHS

Matt Byron, Staff Reporter Colette Cloutier, Staff Reporter Paige Farnsworth, Staff Reporter Kailie Fowler, Staff Reporter Erin Eyler, Staff Reporter Maura Losh, Staff Reporter Grant McPherson, Staff Reporter Aubrey Ritz, Staff Reporter Bilqees Salie, Staff Reporter Sam Sheppard, Staff Reporter Emberly Skaggs, Staff Reporter Edgar Sokoli, Business Manager Ambika Vohra, Staff Reporter Melanie Wong, Staff Reporter

The Talon Policy The Talon presents an open forum for student expression to be used by the Rochester High School community to promote and express thought and action.

The stories, opinions and bylined content in The Talon do not necessarily represent and should not be interpreted as the views of the Rochester Community School Board of Education or any of its staff, faculty or employees.

The Talon is devoted to professional journalism and fairness in all reporting. The Talon will adhere to a standard of responsible journalism and will refrain from publishing material which is legally libelous, obscene or could disrupt the operation of the school.

Letters to the Editor If something annoys you about us, school or life in general, write a letter to the editor. If something amuses you about us, school or life in general, write a letter to the editor. If we got something wrong, write a letter to the editor. If it’s coherent and under 300 words, we’ll run it.

Drop signed letters off in B123 before or during 1st Hour, email them to Mrs. Satterthwaite: jsatterthwaite@rochester.k12. mi.us, tweet a link to us @rhstalon, post them to The Talon’s Facebook page or any other form of 21st Century communication you prefer. We look forward to hearing from you.

SEPTEMBER

Comic by Erin Eyler

DANIELLE KULLMANN I D

THE TALON 2013-2014

OPINION I 18 OPINION 18

THE PEOPLE BEHIND THE FACES SENIOR PICTURES SHOULD INCLUDE FAMILY AND FRIENDS

When seniors can pose with whoever they want, looking at these pictures mean getting to know who they are, who’s important to them and what kind of relationship they have together. Photo by Melody Zhang

Senior pictures ,like the photo above and photo in the top right, are a chance for seniors to capture an important moment in time. . Photo of Sarah Walwema by Melody Zhang

S I SARAH WALWEMA A perfect smile, the right amount of sunlight and a random couch in the middle of a field - this seems to have become the perfect equation for successful senior pictures.

Senior pictures are a way to document a moment in time when you’re the most optimistic. With high school ending, having the opportunity to start over and become a different person is exciting and SEPTEMBER

English and journalism teacher Julia Satterthwaite and Sarah Walwema strike a silly pose. Photo by Melody Zhang

invigorating. This opportunity seems to be something that is not to be overlooked.

It seems that whenever I tell anyone that I’m a senior in high school, I’m reminded to cherish this moment as it will be the most carefree time in my life, a time when I won’t have to worry about kids, spouses or debt. Adulthood is daunting and inescapable and senior pictures represent the exact time when you’re oblivious to the serious responsibilities ahead of you.

Senior pictures also represent growth.

Seniors Melanie Wong, Sarah Walwema and Taylor Dowdell share a moment. Photo by Melody Zhang

For some, high school can be a rough couple of years. Senior pictures are proof that you made it out alive and in one piece.

What aren’t seen in senior photos are the people who have helped these seniors get to this point. Behind those smiling faces and brick walls to lean on are teachers, parents, friends and even strangers, people who have been there to guide and shape these seniors into people ready to leave high school behind.

Soon to be graduates, if possible,

should invite everyone important to them to take pictures in places that are actually important to them. Instead of a well-lit field, these places could be a classroom of a favorite teacher, a best friend’s basement or your favorite coffee shop. This way, when looking back on your senior pictures, you remember the people who made you who you are and not just what you looked like.

SARAH WALWEMA I D

THE TALON 2013-2014

SPORTS I 19

DISSECTING THE PISTONS POSITION BY POSITION S I ZACH LIBBY 2012 RECORD 29-53 (4th, NBA Central) LAST PLAYOFF APPEARANCE 2009 HEAD COACH (RECORD) Maurice Cheeks POINT GUARDS : A-

The Pistons haven’t had a true point guard since Chauncey Billups in 2004-2008. Bouncing around between unproven and untalented players is a big reason why they have been a lottery team for such a long time.

Trading for Brandon Jennings by shipping away Brandon Knight, a player that the Pistons couldn’t wait for him to be what they expected him to be. Jennings, even though he’s a very inconsistent player at times, will easily spread the floor for the big men down low. His 17 point per game average will also add explosiveness to the offense.

SHOOTING GUARDS : B-

VARSITY GIRLS SWIM TAKES A STROKE IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION

Photo by Colette Cloutier

S I ZACH LIBBY The timer reaches the ending mark, giving way to a crowd full of parents and friends screaming and cheering for the girls who completed their races. The girls pull themselves out of the pool drenched and exhausted, but ready to go at it again soon.

The RHS girls swim team has begun their 2013 campaign, ready to triumph what they accomplished last season.

This year’s varsity team will look to succeed what last year’s team accomplished: co-league Oakland Activities Association (OAA) blue champions.

“It’s great that there are three [divisions]; the talent that each division has is almost comparing each to major and minor league baseball,” head coach Paul Karas said. “There is a huge separation in teams, the last couple teams that we’ve swum with only had a dozen swimmers, compared to 30 for us.”

The OAA is broken down into three divisions: red is the SEPTEMBER

highest, then white, and, finally, blue. Each division is based on the school and amount of girls on the team; RHS is in the blue division.

“I tell my girls that the league meets are very important, everybody in the blue division are teams that want to win,” coach Karas said. “Our crosstown rivals compete in different divisions, but those teams give us an opportunity to swim in different events.”

As for state competition, the team competes in division two, which is the second highest division, according to population of schools.

Social studies teacher Sarah Monroe is a diving coach. Her passion for teaching, she says, coincides perfectly into coaching.

“I remember how awesome it was to be on a team with a good coach when I was in high school, so I definitely wanted to create that same atmosphere for the girls,” Ms. Monroe said.

The swimmers on the team also share the same passion and

love for the sport. Sophomore Ellen Wegener loves the sport for the competition and the bonding with her teammates.

“There are so many different events and you are always improving. Even when you did the best you ever have, you know you can still do better,” Ellen said. “You are not only competing with those around you but yourself. You always want to do better.”

Junior Roxanne Bazinski joined the swim team this year for the first time and is enjoying the friendships just as much as the competitive nature.

Even though it is Bazinski’s first year swimming, she already knows what it takes to successful in the pool.

“One slip up or mistake can cost a victory. I’m trying my hardest so I can contribute points to the team,” Roxanne said. “I’m very confident if I am ever alone in a race. I feel very important and that I have to push myself to do the very highest, and to finish as fast as I can.”

Bringing back Chauncey Billups will definitely fill up sits at the Palace as well as increase jersey sales, but at age 36, how much more does Billups have in the tank? “Mr. Big Shot” is a proven leader on and off the court, but he is certainly not an All-Star caliber player anymore.

Drafting KCP with the 8th pick of the 2013 draft raised some eyebrows, being that prospects such as Trey Burke and Michael CarterWilliams were still on the board. KCP was last year’s Southeastern Conference and University of Georgia MVP, and with Billups handling the dirty work, KCP can learn the ropes now before he takes the reigns in the years to come.

SMALL FORWARD: C

Free agent signee Josh Smith is a natural power forward, but with Greg Monroe claiming the position, Smith will take over the SF spot.

With Smith’s size and the inability to shoot the basketball at the wing, there may be concerns throughout the year.

The Pistons did sign the MVP of the Italian league Luigi Datome to help the shooting at small forward, but with no NBA experience, an unproven player can’t be trusted as of yet.

POWER FORWARD - Grade: A Greg Monroe is the horse of the Pistons. Entering his fourth year for the Pistons, Monroe will be the go to guy in the paint, due to his uncanny ability to rebound and score.

The power forward position is the deepest for the Pistons. Rookie Tony Mitchell and veterans Charlie Villanueva and Jonas Jerebko will complement Monroe as well as the second and third lineups.

CENTER - Grade: B+ Andre Drummond probably won’t get much rest during games as the Pistons will look to play him as much as possible. Compared to last season where Drummond saw limited playing time on the floor.

Drummond’s athleticism and height make him an unstoppable force for the Pistons. He can shoot the basketball, rebound and is not afraid to get dirty down low.

Look for Drummond to possibly receive All-Star and maybe even MVP consideration, despite being a rookie last season.

PREDICTION: 48-34 (7th seed in 2014 playoffs) Even though the Pistons brought in some key additions to the roster, it’s not like their considered to be NBA finalists. The Eastern conference is too competitive for the Pistons to even make the playoffs higher than the fifth seed.

Progress will be made this season, which is satisfying for every Pistons fan who has been through disappointment for four years. The talent is here, but it’s too early to make any rational decisions.

MELODY ZHANG I D

20 I SPORTS

THE TALON 2013-2014 Sophomore Shane Skelcy, sophomore Sam Malatesta and senior James Schuler (left to right) relieve stress before the race by sharing jokes and listening to music.

The Rochester XC girls team poses before each having attained a Personal Record for the season.

Sophomore Spencer Handley (left) and junior Ahad Rauf (right) pick up the pace by working together and moving up the pack.

N R O B

Girls from all over the state prep for the Varsity girls race by stretching, performing strides, and team cheers.

N o U t R

Photos by Melody Zhang D I CAMILLE DOUGLAS

Junior Ali Ishaque, Sophomore Shane Skelcy, Sophomore Spencer Handley, Senior Grant McPherson and Sophomore Sam Malatesta are relieved after a long day of running and cheering and are ready to celebrate.

SEPTEMBER