THE
TALON ROCHESTER HILLS, MI // SPRING 2018 // VOL. 80 ISSUE 7
The RATS production of “The Uninvited” told a horror-filled story of a haunted mansion starring Julian Karagounis and Addy Clark. Check out pages 8-9 for more on the spring play. Photo by Kent McCormick.
THE TALON || SPRING 2018
PAGE 2 || NEWS
NEWS BRIEFS: 4.
5. .
Photo courtesy of Creative Commons.
1. RHS
The track team competed at leagues on Friday, May 11. After leagues, the top runners moved on to regionals. The top two runners from the regionals meet will qualify to go to the state competition. Junior Elizabeth Bulat competed in the regional meet on Friday, May 18. “I’m excited for Regionals because it’s a great opportunity to compete and race against some of the fastest girls in the state,” Bulat said before the meet. “I’m also looking forward to seeing how our relays do because us four (Casie, Alexa, Mya and I) have been working hard all season with hopes to qualify.” Bulat has set goals for herself, which motivated her for regionals. “I got prepared this season for regionals by working hard and staying positive,” Bulat said. “This week I’m taking my training easy so I’m refreshed and ready to run fast on Friday.” Prior to the race, Bulat noted that there would be challenging competitors. “Clarkson and Lake Orion are going to be tough schools to run against,” Bulat said. “They will push us to hit the state qualifying times.”
Brief by Taylor Simmons
2. RCS
On Saturday, May 12, Rochester Community Schools’ 12th annual Hometown Hustle took place in Downtown Rochester, including a 5k run and walk to support the schools and students of RCS. Participant and RHS student Sydney Vanarsdalen ran the race for the first time, and engaged in a positive experience. “I ran the Hometown Hustle to see how I’d place, and also for fun,” Vanarsdalen said. “I was interested because it was a 5K that was in my city. ” Vanarsdalen believes that the Hometown Hustle is an inclusive event that encourages people to be involved in their community. “The Hometown Hustle is great for the community by allowing athletes and non-athletes to participate in a popular community event,” Vanarsdalen said.
Brief by Makenzie Shubnell
Photo courtesy of Creative Commons.
3. STATE
On March 27, William Strampel, former dean of the College of Osteopathic Medicine at MSU, was accused of sexually assaulting female students in exchange for favorable treatment at Michigan State University. District Judge Richard Ball issued a criminal complaint and a warrant against Stample on four charges, which includes misconduct by a public official, a felony punishable by up to five years in prison and the possibility to losing his medical license. “My reaction to the situation was disbelief. We trust these teachers and professors to have our best interest at heart,” senior Kyla Boyce said. “You get one like Strampel who takes advantage of students.” Strampel has been under investigation since December and is also charged with willful neglect of duty, which is in relation to his failure to follow-up to enforce protocols after a university Title IX investigation. “That’s hard to tell [what will happen next], but whatever it is I hope it is to the benefit of the students to get the justice that they deserve,” Boyce said about how MSU is handling the situation. . Brief by Danya Black
4. COUNTRY
On April 10, Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg had a Senate hearing regarding the suspicion that Facebook violated user privacy, as Cambridge Analytica collected data for adverstisemets. Zuckerberg promised to prevent this from happening again. “When we click ‘agree’ on the contracts of the social media websites, do we really read all of that fine print?” said social studies teacher Ms. Sarah Monroe. “Do we know what we are signing up for?” Facebook has reported privacy issues in the past. “It is really creepy to be talking about something with friends and then the next day have an advertisement for the thing on social media,” said Ms. Monroe. While policies have the possibility of being revised, it seems that some of the responsibility of privacy falls on the users themselves. “I think everyone should use their brain and common sense when using social media in the first place with what they post,” Ms. Monroe said. “You hear of stories all the time about someone going back to another person’s social media accounts from years ago.”
Brief by Lauren Karmo
5. WORLD
The Syrian government has been accused of using chemical weapons against their own citizens, with 75 people reported dead. President Trump responsed to these attacks on Twitter. “Russia vows to shoot down any and all missiles fired at Syria,” Trump tweeted on April 11. “Get ready Russia, because they will be coming, nice and new and ‘smart!’ You shouldn’t be partners with a Gas Killing Animal who kills his people and enjoys it!” Trump later authorized military action on April 13. Trump stated in a televised address, “I ordered the United States Armed Forces to launch precision strikes on targets associated with the chemical weapons capabilities of Syrian dictator Bashar al-Assad.” These strikes were also coordinated with US allies. “So today,” Trump said, “the nations of Britain, France, and the United States of America have marshaled their righteous power against barbarism and brutality.” There is mixed response to his reaction. “I believe Trump’s response was adequate,” Junior Yash Kumar said. “But it was a bit comical to say ‘mission accomplished’ in a tweet.” The military strikes speak about the current state of middle eastern affairs according to Kumar. “The attacks show that the Syrian Civil War has reached a critical stage,” Kumar said. “World leaders will try anything to stop it.”
Brief by Wyatt Anness
THE TALON || SPRING 2018
PAGE 3 || NEWS
THE GAVEL STRIKES
The race is on to replace Speaker Ryan has begun After Speaker Ryan announced his intention to step down as Speaker of the NOAH PETERSON WEB EDITOR
PATRICK JORDAN STAFF WRITER
The Democratic Party
Due to their defeat in the 2016 presidential election, many in the party’s social democratic progressive wing have attempted to drag the party to the left. On the other hand, the party’s moderate wing has argued for a return to the center in an attempt to appeal to swing voters.
The Democratic Front Runners
House, the members of both parties began to manuvure in an attempt to replace him. Wether it will be a Democrat or a Republican remains to be seen as the 2018 midterm elections aproach.
The Republican Party
After Trump’s surprise victory in 2016, the party has shifted away from the traditional conservatism championed by previous Republican presidents to a more populist direction. As it stands, the party is currently behind the Democrats on the generic ballot leading. In addition, the Republicans have lost their leader after Paul Ryan announced he would not run for re-election.
The Republican Front Runners
Tim Ryan (D-OH)
Jim Jordan (R-OH)
Ryan has been a Democratic Representative for Ohio’s 13th district since 2013. He previously held office in the House of Rep. for Ohio’s 17th district from 2003 to 2013 and was Senator for Ohio’s 32nd district from 2001 to 2002. He attempted to overthrow Nancy Pelosi as Minority Leader in 2016, but was unsuccessful.
Jordan is currently a member of the House of Reresentatives for Ohio’s 4th district, a position he has held since 2007. Jordan is part of the far right Freedom Caucus, which advocates in favor of socially and fiscally conservative solutions to government. He is known for assisting conservative elements in the Republican party for shutting down the government in 2013.
Steny Hoyer (D-MD)
Kevin McCarthy (R-CA)
Hoyer has held House Minority Whip position since 2011. Before the Democrats lost control of the House in 2010, he was House Majority Leader and the Chair of the House of Democratic Conference from 1989-1995, along with a few other previous positions. He was born in New York City and educated at the University of Maryland.
Nancy Pelosi
Pelosi currently holds the position as House Minority Leader, although she was formerly the Speaker of the House between 2007 and 2011. In 1983, she was elected to the United States House of Representatives and later, in 2001, she was elected as House Minority Whip. If the Democrats retake the House in 2018, she could have the possibility to retake the gavel.
As current House Majority Leader, McCarthy previously served as the chairman of the CA Young Republicans, a position he held until he was elected to numerous positions across the state. In 2006, he was elected to the House of Representatives, which culminated in his election as Majority Leader in 2014.
Steve Scalise (R-LA)
Although Scalise has stated that he won’t run against McCarthy, political experts still believe that he could run for Speaker. After the Republicans furthered their majority in the House, Scalise was elected to replace Majority Leader McCarthy as the GOP’s Whip.
PAGE 4 || FEATURE
THE TALON || SPRING 2018
DOWNTOWN ROCHESTER GETS GREEN Annual Earth Day Fest supports environmental charities AMNA ABBAS STAFF WRITER
Though Earth Day is observed every year on April 22, there are not many people who know how to celebrate this international holiday. Every year, Michigan Earth Day Fest takes over downtown Rochester for the weekend in order to help anyone who wants to live green. Earth Day Fest offers wide variety of exhibits, attractions and activities, ranging from educational presentations to free yoga sessions and massages. The fair also features live concerts by local artists and door prizes for random visitors. The festival provides an array of fun shopping and learning experiences at any price range. Admission itself is free, as the festival wants everyone to help push their motto of “Make Every Day, Earth Day.”
One of the spotlight vendors this year upcycled materials. All of our products are was Buy the Change, which sold handmade handmade by women around the globe. A items for a good fraction of our cause. income goes to “We sell the hands of “We feel like holding events jewelry, kantha like (the Earth Day Fest) to push women who (recycled cotton are in need towards making lasting changes of it most, sari), as well as are crucial in making the world a primarily those assorted home goods and facing severe better place.” accessories,” said economic and a representative social struggles,” of the company. Representative of the nonprofit said the Not only are representative. Buy the Change Buy the Change’s The products contributions helping a greater cause, but the clothes of the organization reach beyond those and accessories are both style and borders as well. The company founded environmentally savvy. the Buy the Change Foundation, which is “The materials we use are not only dedicated to bettering the communities in ethically made but made from recycled and which the workers live.
“[The foundation] has founded water filters in Guatemala, sewing machines in Haiti, Cambodia and Uganda, metal working equipment in Cambodia, and much more,” said the representative. Such lasting changes being made by a relatively small company only shows the large impact of environmental awareness. “Not only do events like these help bring businesses with good causes likes ours profit but they bring awareness to what we fight for,” said the representative. For Buy the Change and companies like it, the end result is what makes the job worth it. “We feel like holding events like (the Earth Day fest) to push towards msking lasting changes are crucial in making the world a better place.” said the representative.”
EVERY-DAY WAYS TO HELP SAVE THE EARTH
How to keep the Earth Day spirit going year-round ANGELA MAMMEL
Stay n
COPY EDITOR
Conserve water!
Plant trees!
Trees provide life-giving oxygen, and help to clean the air and combat climate change. They also provide food and shelter for animals. Seeing a tree that you personally planted grow is super rewarding, too, and something that you don’t want to miss out on!
of ou se wi ten, rec gase thi ll yo no ycl s. e s u t yo poll pre only u u v the w tio en ma nee ill re n, b t u d the teria d for uce t l rai s, s raw nfo avi res ng ts.
R co ecy m cle La nd p fi or gre the lls p os a o en i t l r If hou wit lute ! y h
Water is a pre cious resource, so conserve the most of it that you can by taking shorter showers, was hing your clothes in co ld water, and turning o ff the faucet while brushing your teeth.
on-toxic Conventional cleaners are m ! ade with har mful chem ical into our water s that can easily seep , requiring ex pensive treatments to be removed. If you simply swap out your clea ners for all-natural pro ducts, you’ll be taking steps to save our water su pply.
Earth Day Q & A Take Meatless Mondays!
Not only will you be saving animal lives by cutting down on the amount of meat you eat, but you’ll also be conserving water- it takes the same amount of water in 30 showers to process a quarter pound of ground beef.
Conserve power!
Not only is leaving a light on overnight expensive, but the greenhouse gas emissions from these lights pollutes the air. Choosing long-lasting and mercury-free LED light bulbs can help prevent this air pollution- plus, they’re recyclable!
with Mr. Shurter
Why is Earth Day so important?
“Earth Day started in 1970 and it spurred a nationwide movement to care for the environment and have our practices become more sustainable. Millions of people marched. It led to multiple environmental laws including the Clean Air Act and Clean Water Act. Today, Earth Day is still a celebration of becoming sustainable and celebrating the Earth’s resources. It serves as a way to educate people and get them involved in sustainable practices.”
Why should we care about environmental conservation?
“Of course we want the earth and its resources to still be here for our children and future generations. We want clean air, water, and soil so we can be healthy and have healthy ecosystems for a long time to come.”
THE TALON || SPRING 2018
PAGE 5 || FEATURE
AUTISM AWARENESS MONTH
RHS gets involved in the evolution of Autism awareness MARIAM HANNA
STAFF WRITER
April was Autism Awareness Month: a time to deepen society’s understanding of Autism. Autism spectrum disorder is a complex developmental disability that affects 1 in 68 children nationwide, according to the Center for Disease Control (CDC). The National Autism Association explains that Autism impacts the development of the brain in the areas of social interaction, communication skills and cognitive function. “Usually, [Autism] is an impairment in social skills,” said Ms. Tarra Dodge, one of Rochester High School´s special needs teachers. “They may not be able to read people’s body language or have difficulty when you say something but you said it sarcastically, they might not be able to pick up on that.” Individuals who have Autism are different than those who have other disabilities, because they do not have a certain feature that distinguishes them. According to Ms. Dodge, this can lead to misunderstandings and miscommunications. “For people with Autism, there’s not a big difference in the way they walk or their facial features. They are not in a wheelchair. There is nothing to really tell you, so that can really get people into trouble,” said Ms. Dodge. “That’s when they would get misjudged or even get in trouble with the law if other people are not aware that they have a disability.” While people with an Autism spectrum disorder may not always be able to read body language or participate in the same activities that a person who does not have Autism can, there are certain things individuals with Autism can do that others might not. “I had a friend who knew elevators,” Ms. Dodge said. “He knew the brand of elevators in Somerset Mall verses the one here at the school. He could tell what the brand was and the functionings; he was just fascinated by elevators and knew all kinds of details about elevators.” RHS offers a class in which students can peer mentor those who are in the special needs program. By being peer mentors, students are able to make bonds they may not have made otherwise and help their peers overcome challenges. “The friendships I have with the students and really making a difference in their lives is my favorite thing,” senior Isabelle Stella, a current peer mentor, said. “[For instance,]
we have helper dogs that come to this class on certain days, and one of the students is scared of dogs, and I kind of helped him pet a dog for the first time, so that was really cool.” According to Stella, it is significant to understand what Autism truly is and become more aware of it. In addition, it is crucial to understand that those who have Autism are not much different than everyone else. “I think a lot of people are very ignorant when it comes to the disability and don’t quite understand it, so there’s a lot of judgement and laughter and jokes and being very exclusive and not friendly,” said Stella. “[To change their perspective on Autism,] they just need to learn about it. Just read a few articles- that’s all it really takes. Just talk to a student, and see that they want to be friends with you.” According to sophomore Flavia Mandley, being a peer mentor is an opportunity she is glad she took. “I love seeing the kids grow and them learning and putting a smile on their face,” Mandley said. Mandley also explains that people should not feel bad for students who have Autism, and believes that instead, they should gain awareness about the disorder. “Some people say they feel for them,” Mandley said. “But you shouldn’t feel bad for them because they’re just like us, trying to get through their lives.” At Rochester High School, there are two classes in the special needs program- one for the higher functioning disabled students with Ms. Amy Cosentino and one for the ones who may need more help with Ms. Dodge. Freshman Liz Maag is in Ms. Cosentino’s class, and she has Autism. “[Autism awareness and acceptance is important because] for one, I feel Autism awareness is a powerful message,” she said. “It is a good reason because I have Autism and it is a disorder. It’s been hard, so maybe people who don’t have Autism or any disorder just should be aware of Autism. This is what I have, and maybe some don’t know what Autism is.” Maag is an example of somebody who, instead of letting her disorder get to her, chooses to allow it to empower her. This is only her first year of high school and she has already joined the colorguard, choir and theater at RHS.
Left: Ms. Dodge works with students in her class at RHS. Photos by Mariam Hanna Right: Freshman Liz Maag performs in RHS colorguard. Photo courtesy of Liz Maag. “This is my first year of high school, and I was nervous at first really because in middle school I was really not talkative until seventh and eighth grade, but it went back down again,” Maag said. “With that message, choir, again, band, the colorguard, theaterthey understand how I feel, or maybe they understand my emotions and feelings. They treat you like family. If there is someone being mean to you, they would understand you and help you.” According to Maag, peer mentors make her day brighter. They make the students smile and enjoy themselves. “I would say [my favorite experience with peer mentors is] their kindness and their facial expressions,” she said. “They make people smile a lot.” Classes like the one Maag is in are offered because of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) that was passed in 1975 to ensure that students who fall under the special needs umbrella get a fair chance at education. According to the U.S Department of Education, almost 50 million students who have a disability attend public schools as of the 2013-2014 school year. Furthermore, the Bureau of Labor Statistics says there are over 37,000 special needs
teachers across the country as of May 2017. ¨I do like [RHS´s special needs program]. I like that the school as a whole just seems to encompass people with all different abilities and disabilities,” Ms. Dodge said. “When I was in college, I was actually kinda going a business route and I was gonna start my own store and all that. Then, my college roommate said we need volunteers for this thing called special olympics, so we volunteered with her and that changed my mind that day. I was working with adults actually. They were probably in their twenties; they had special needs. It was like a switch. I knew then and there that that was what I wanted to do.” With a combination of teachers like Ms. Dodge and Ms. Cosentino, peer mentors such as Mandley and Stella, and students with Autsim, like Maag, Autism awareness is increasing by the day. “We read Wonder, and it’s just about a boy who gets teased and bullied and its just hard for him to go to school, or me. Especially me because I can’t learn with maybe some people,” Maag adds. “But, my friends and peer mentors put a smile on my face. Those are friends I am looking for.”
PAGE 6 || FEATURE
SEEING DOUBLE
Inside the lives of twins at RHS
THE TALON || SPRING 2018
THEN AND NOW
ZOE SAWDON SPORTS EDITOR
Sophomore Angelo Hama walks down the hallway on the “We get into arguments all the time,” Angelo Hama said. way to his next class when he hears someone call out, “Hey “We always butt heads with each other even over the smallest Santino!” with a wave in his direction. Stifling a laugh, Angelo things.” Hama waves back despite being called by his twin’s name. Santino Hama attributes these arguments to differing According to Angelo Hama, he and Santino share a opinions between him and his brother. bond that is very unique compared to most other sibling “We have this different sort of point of view whenever it relationships. comes to arguments and conversations,” Santino Hama said. “It’s a bond like no other,” Angelo Hama said. “It’s unique On the other hand, however, Angelo Hama observes that . . . and although it’s twins looking the same, it’s different he and Santino are able to back one another up. from everyone else, and there’s nothing that can break it.” “There’s always that plus-one vote,” Angelo Hama said. English teacher Mrs. Kelley Cusmano is also a twin, and “So if I put out something, he’s always that plus-one to agree she agrees that twins share a distinct bond that is hard to with me. If he puts out something, I’m always right there mirror. even if I don’t agree.” “It’s like being friends with yourself,” Mrs. Cusmano said. Similarly, Mrs. Cusmano notes that growing up with a twin “You can’t make up that kind of bond that you have with a gave her someone to count on and share experiences with. twin. It’s not something you can explain to a lot of people, “Because there was nobody else, we kind of ganged up and it’s not something that can easily be replicated.” on my mom or my dad,” Mrs. Cusmano said. “I think when Santino Hama has noticed you only have a twin you kind of have that having a twin brother is to be a good kid, because if one of us advantageous when it comes to did something bad, both of us would “It’s like being friends with school and homework. have to do it, so then it just wouldn’t yourself. You can’t make up that usually fly. I feel like we kind of just go “We get the same idea when it comes to work,” Santino Hama kind of bond that you have with through everything together.” said. “He can help me out, I can Looking back, Mrs. Cusmano a twin. It’s not something you help him out, and it’s kind of the reflects on how her relationship with can explain to a lot of people, same thing.” her sister has changed over the years. and it’s not something that can In fact, the two have switched “I think when we were in high easily be replicated” places in school on multiple school I [was] more social and more occasions. outgoing, so sometimes in high school “We used to do this thing Mrs. Cusmano, English teacher there would be tension because I’d get where we would prank teachers in invited to do something and maybe she middle school, switch classes [and] wouldn’t,” Mrs. Cusmano said. “But take each other’s tests,” Angelo then I would say probably towards the Hama said. “We dressed exactly end of college when we realized we the same, and we switched one of weren’t going to be doing everything our shoes so that teachers couldn’t tell . . . even our hair was together, it made us a lot closer to be honest.” styled the same.” Now, Mrs. Cusmano continues to stay very close to her Angelo and Santino even switched places as early as sister. They have even developed a special routine to stay in elementary school. contact. “We switched classes the first day of school, and [the “Our husbands and everybody makes fun of us,” Mrs. teachers] didn’t really know anything about it,” Santino Hama Cusmano said. “We talk before school, I call her, then we said. “So what we did was the night after, we told each other talk after school, and then we talk at night. So we usually talk what happened in that class, so then when we went back to three times a day. That’s our routine.” our original classes, we just knew what we were doing.” Santino Hama plans to maintain his bond with Angelo as Mrs. Cusmano also discovered her own twin hack. the two get older. “It’s like you have this built-in person for things,” Mrs. “I don’t know where his future’s going to lead him, but Cusmano said. “She tried on my wedding dress before I always stick with your family no matter what it is,” Santino bought it because I wanted to see how it looked, and she Hama said. “Because I don’t want to lose someone so close tried it on. You can’t usually do that, so that was a huge to me especially who’s my brother, someone who’s exactly benefit.” like me, just gone.” However, according to Mrs. Cusmano, being a twin has its Angelo Hama also plans to stay in touch with his brother disadvantages as well. as much as possible. He believes that the relationship they “We, a lot of the time, don’t have our own identity,” Mrs. share is and will continue to be unbreakable. Cusmano said. “When we go other places, everyone knows “I’ll probably give him a couple calls, maybe come over us for being twins and not necessarily for who I am as a for occasions, and just see him whenever, sometimes check person, and so I think that’s been a problem my whole life. up on him and see how he’s doing,” Angelo Hama said. You’re kind of expected to be this one group.” “With [Santino] it’s weird because you see him every minute, Angelo and Santino Hama also experience downfalls to every day, every year of your life, and there’s nothing that can their relationship, one of the most common being arguments. change it.”
Mrs. Cusmano and her twin sister at a high school track meet. Photo courtesy of Mrs. Cusmano.
A more recent photo of Mrs. Cusmano and her sister. Photo courtesy of Mrs. Cusmano.
Angelo and Santino Hama when they were younger. Photo courtesy of Angelo Hama.
A more recent photo of Angelo and Santino Hama. Photo courtesy of Angelo Hama.
THE TALON || SPRING 2018
PAGE 7 || FEATURE
THE SENIOR ALL-NIGHT PARTY The last hurrah for the class of 2018 MEGAN BAKER STAFF WRITER
On the night of graduation, senior Rohan Singh will finally will be able to proudly call himself a Rochester High School graduate. After the excitement of the graduation ceremony and the stress of high school fades away, Singh, along with the rest of the senior class, will await his final gathering with his grade at Dave and Buster’s. On June 7, from 10:30 p.m.-5:00 a.m., the Rochester High School senior class of 2018 will gather for the last time for an evening of food, games, and celebrating at Dave and Buster’s. This year’s senior class has a dedicated group of volunteers working to make the event a memorable one. “Parents have been meeting since the beginning of the school year to make sure that the seniors have the best All Night Party ever,” said Kim Baker, one of the volunteers helping to organize the event. “There’s several committees set up within the overall planning committees and they’re designated with different volunteers to make sure that the day goes smoothly and every senior has a prize.” The committee has been meeting once a month, purchasing prizes for the seniors to try to win, and reaching
out to local and out of state colleges asking for donations. The planning has gone smoothly, however, the group of dedicated parents has run into a few minor problems in the preparation for the party. “At first we had a lot of people buy tickets but the ticket sales have slowed down so we’re hoping that in the next month we’ll get a lot more people interested in the event,” Baker said. “We would love to achieve 100 percent participation but we know that’s really difficult to do, so at least 50 percent participation from the class is definitely admirable and we know that our local schools really get close to 100 percent and we know that Rochester High can get that much attendance also. It’s a great way for the kids to have fun for the night and do so in a safe and engaging party.” The tickets to attend the party cost 95 dollars per person, including bus transportation to and from the school, food/ drinks, games/entertainment, and the opportunity to win fun prizes ranging from college spirit wear to mini fridges and TVs. “The overall purpose for the party is to make sure that kids have fun and stay safe for the night. We want to make sure that every student not only has a great time but comes home safe as well,¨ said Baker. “The Senior All Night Party is
a great way to unite students to participate and celebrate one more time for their achievements and accomplishments.” The Senior All Night Party is a fun tradition for senior classes to enjoy each year. The event takes place only hours after the graduation ceremony, and the senior class enters the party as newly graduated high schoolers, gathering for the final time before heading off to wherever life takes them next. “I think that the all night party is popular because it’s that last event where the majority of the senior class is together,” said Singh. “It also seems like a fun event in general where people can have fun with their friends.” The senior class looks forward to this fun event where they can get together and celebrate their achievements. “I know that a lot of my friends are going and it just looks like a lot of fun in general,” said Singh. “A lot of my friends who’ve graduated in previous years have also told me that it’s a really good event too.” Along with graduation and starting their post-high school lives, many students look forward to the event. “To be honest I really don’t know what to expect, but from what I’ve heard from my friends, it’s really something to look forward to,” said Singh.
Picture of the 2016 Senior All Night Party at Dave & Busters. Photo courtesy of Barbara Anness.
PAGES 8-9 || SPREAD
THE TALON || SPRING 2018
“THE UNINVITED” SPOOKS AUDIENCES ZOE SAWDON SPORTS EDITOR
Senior Adalyn Clark waits nervously backstage as she prepares to act in Rochester High School’s production of “The Uninvited.” Clark hopes that all the time spent memorizing lines and practicing scenes will pay off as she takes a deep breath and steps onto the stage. “The Uninvited” tells the story of two siblings, Pam and Roddy, who buy a house at a place called Cliff End. Eventually, they start to notice that the house is haunted and must figure out the ghost’s identity and motives. Clark played the role of Pam, and with this year being her first as a member of RATS (Rochester Alliance of Theatrical Students), she felt somewhat nervous to be a part of the cast. “Joining cast, for me especially, it was super nerve racking, because I’m not the most social butterfly,” Clark said. “I had to memorize 269 lines and I did that by writing it all on notecards and studying it every single day. It was a little hard, especially because I was pretty new to it.” However, Clark has noticed several benefits due to participating in theatre. “It does help socially,” Clark said.
“There’s obviously a bunch of scene work where you can learn the sound board or lighting system or how to build and use power tools, but then there’s also opportunities to talk to new people. You learn to communicate really well because in theatre you need communication. It’s helped me with speaking in class and giving presentations and just with public speaking in general.” Sophomore Mima Higashi played Wendy Carter, an actress friend of Pam and Roddy who helps to summon the ghost at Cliff End. Higashi has also taken something away from her experience in theatre. “I learned that there’s a lot of really accepting people, and there are a lot of creative things happening in theatre,” Higashi said. “It’s good to be confident and express yourself.” According to senior Emily Brown, crew members learned some valuable lessons behind the scenes. Brown was in charge of putting together costumes that matched the characters’ personalities as well as the time period of the play. “Students benefit from productions like this because they learn the meaning of commitment,” Brown said. “Just like any
sport, we put many hours into our shows.” In theatre director Mr. Frank Gollon’s opinion, one particularly difficult task for the crew was executing the special effects surrounding the ghost. “We have not had a play that required this level of effects since ‘Dracula’ many years ago,” Mr. Gollon said. “The effect required the use of a liquid nitrogen fog machine that, when it worked, was amazing. The challenge was determining the correct delivery piping and pressure to create the fog curtain that we then projected our ghosts onto.” Beyond special effects, “The Uninvited” required actors to adapt to the dramatic style of the play, according to Clark. “We did a drama this year, so it was so much more intimidating because we had to do motions that were very deep,” Clark said. “I had to scream. But for comedies, if you do something wonky on stage people can laugh at it because it’s a comedy. But because this show was so serious, we really had to focus on what we were doing.” Despite this challenge, Mr. Gollon was ultimately satisfied with the way that the cast members portrayed their characters. “The cast members were
able to draw the audience into the story and challenges that came along with it. deliver some chilling moments along the “There was a lot of accents that was way,” Mr. Gollon said. “Playing supernatural difficult,” Higashi said. “I tried a Spanish horror is not easy and the cast had to avoid accent, but it was really fun because there making it ‘campy’ by overplaying their was a girl, one of our directors, who helped characters and/or emotions.” me with it. The possession scene which I In fact, “The Uninvited” was chosen did was the most difficult because I kept to be this year’s spring play because many looking up horror movies and trying out RATS members were eager to try out a new different things. I learned to read tarot genre. cards for the [scene], and it was just really “The fun to be a little RATS bit of a voodoo “Theatre is certainly a lot of stress and were queen.” hard work, but we bond through the stress interested Clark also and hard work. You can start theatre and in doing felt that there a play were stressful not know anybody, but once you’re done that was moments along with the show it’s like your all family.” more of the way, but she a thriller believes that than a these moments Adalyn Clark, senior comedy,” draw the RATS Mr. members closer Gollon together. said. “Everyone loves a good ghost story “Theatre is certainly a lot of stress and and the script allowed us to create some hard work, but we bond through the stress eerie special effects.” and hard work,” Clark said. “You can start Higashi was excited to participate in a theatre and not know anybody, more dramatic production, and but once you’re done she enjoyed with the show the it’s like various
your all family. That’s why everybody cries at the cast party.” Brown has also noticed the sense of community among theatre members. “My favorite thing about theatre is how we are all a big family,” Brown said. “What makes theatre special is that everyone involved supports each other and looks out for one another.” Higashi experienced this kind of support in a moment that she shared with Clark while the two were getting ready to perform. “I told my friend who played Pam that I was really freaking out,” Higashi said. “She was just like, ‘breathe, it’s okay,’ and we talked to each other about the roles and what we were going to do. We just got inside of our characters.” As a sophomore, Higashi still has time to experiment with different areas of interest inside and outside of theater. “Though I really like theater, I was thinking of also pursuing film and finding out if I really want to be part of a cast thing, or do a crew thing, or try out both,” Higashi said. However, Clark and Brown are both seniors, and “The Uninvited” was their last production at Rochester High School.
“I’m very sad this is my last production,” Brown said. “I’m going to miss the teachers so much. Everybody is so supportive and I’m just going to miss everything about it.” Clark shares similar sentiments about saying goodbye to her theatre family at Rochester. “As a senior I am worried about keeping my friends,” Clark said. “I really hope I keep the friends that I’ve made here and I keep communicating with them because they’re the best people I’ve ever met.” The bittersweet feelings go in both directions, as Mr. Gollon is sad to see his seniors go. “I can never thank them enough for all of the time and energy that they have contributed to the program during their time here,” Mr. Gollon said. “Also, they leave us with countless ‘oh yeahs’ (those special memories of each show) that will be cherished.” Clark wishes that she had started theatre sooner but feels that it was a great way to end her high school career at Rochester. “I told a bunch of people that my biggest mistake was not joining theatre Freshman year and my greatest decision I ever made was joining senior year,” Clark said. “It’s kind of like a giant group project, the best group project you could ever be a part of.”
For more photos from the production, visit rochestertalon.com
THE TALON || SPRING 2018
PAGE 10 || ENTERTAINMENT
Need Something To Watch?
“A Quiet Place” Silences Audiences PATRICK JORDAN Staff Writer On April 6, 2018, “A Quiet Place” was released in the U.S. with a PG-13 rating. It was written by John Krasinski, Scott Beck and Bryan Woods, with Krasinski doubling as director and starring as the father. The film also featured actress Emily Blunt as the mother, along with Millicent Simmonds as the daughter and Noah Jupe as the son. Within an hour and 35 minutes, the audience witnesses an intense narrative that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. The narrative is simple, yet shrouded in mystery. The movie opens with a family of five tip-toeing in an abandoned drug store to find medicine. Viewers don’t know why, but they will only speak to each other in sign language. With no dialogue, it is up to the audience to to discover why they never speak and why they must stay quiet all the time. The audience discovers through newspapers at the drugstore that the earth is under some sort of attack from monsters. Viewers never discover what they are or where they came from. All that the audience knows is that they cannot see and they hunt by listening for their prey. After the title screen, there is a time lapse of about one year, which mainly serves as exposition. We see the father try to radio any possible survivors while the mother is pregnant. The rest of the story concludes after another time lapse of about a month. While the father and son go on a fishing trip, the mother goes into labor. While walking down the stairs, the mother steps on a nail and screams in pain. This small action leads to one of the most terrifying scenes in the movie; one of the monsters has entered the house. The film is very well made. There were very few flaws in editing and transitions were smooth. The music filled the audience with suspense, but it was when there was no sound at all that it was truly terrifying. The acting was amazing, as emotions were conveyed through actions, not dialogue. The greatest example of this was when Blunt’s character was in labor while one of the monsters was inside the house. She is both clearly terrified and in extreme pain, but she cannot scream and more importantly, she has to stop the baby from crying. This scene was terrifying in every way imaginable, from Blunt’s amazing acting, he music, and the close up of the monster. Everyone’s heart will be racing all the way through. The main flaw in the the movie is that it seems to be forcing jump scares on the audience. There are only a few scenes without a single jump scare. Even though they were effective in scaring the audience, there were too many. In addition, the ending itself was unsatisfying, because it felt completely out of tone with the rest of the movie. “A Quiet Place” is truly one of the scariest movies of the year as it follows the survival of an unnamed family. It does have some parts that are hard to take seriously, but it does not take away from the effect this movie has. If you crave an adrenaline rush and want to be on the edge of your seat the entire way through, this is the movie for you. It earns a 4.5/5.
“Rise” is Deep, Moving and Canceled VIOLET RESH Photo and Design Editor NBC’s latest series aired on March 13, and already capitavated audiences. Set in a small town in Pennsylvania, a local High School gets a change of pace when a teacher takes an new, unconventional approach to the dull and dying theatre department. He encourages the theatre kids to embrace their creative side and channel their individuality which then sparks spectacular theatrical performances. All the while, viewers follow the lives of these students who all come from different backgrounds and face their fair share of issues. The authenticity of the characters really makes the audience believe they are living in this small town and watching their stories unfold firsthand. Jeffrey Seller, the producer of “Hamilton”, and Jason Katims, the executive producer of “Friday Night Lights” and “Parenthood”, bring the true story to life through a documentary style of filming. The several intertwining storylines of the many characters is very similar to the filming and storyline of “Friday Night Lights”, however, instead of the focus being football, it’s theatre. While the show has only aired one season, it brought up several prominent topics in society, making the show extremely relatable to today’s audience. The new theatre director decides to perform “Spring Awakening”, which becomes a controversial issue for the community. This production showcases many of the issues many high school students are faced with today and highlights the struggle as well as the affect the issues have on the kids. The characters grow and develop their identity whether that be facing their sexual orientation, societal stereotypes, or intense stress and pressure regarding their futures. The depth of the story gives off the overall feel of the show as very wholesome and meaningful, very similar to that of “Friday Night Lights” and “Parenthood”. There are also quite a few singing performances by the extremely talented students, who under the guidance of Jeffrey Seller, don’t disappoint. In some ways, the show might parallel “Glee” in the strong influence of music. The stars of the production played by Auli’i Cravalho and Damon J. Gillespie ago above and beyond in their acting and truly connect with the audience with their singing. In the beginning of the show, the characters are still getting their footing. The connections and emotions that transfer from the characters to the audience still need some fine tuning, but the season finale pulls at the heartstrings. The issues throughout the show seem to be put on pause as the audience watches the characters find a haven in the theatre in such a deep, meaningful way. While the first season did have its flaws, it is a shame the show was canceled. Many students identified with the issues showcased in this show and looked to it as an outlet for their own issues.. All in all, this show earns a strong 4/5.
PAGE 11 || ENTERTAINMENT
THE TALON || SPRING 2018
ARE CELEB BREAKUPS OVERHYPED? FALCONS’ THOUGHTS:
“Celebrities are seen as role models to people, so when a breakup is announced it almost makes them seem like normal people.” Emily Rivera, sophomore
Photos of The Weekend (left) and Selena Gomez (right), who famously split last year, courtesy of Creative Commons.
RHS students share their thoughts on famous splits EMMA SCHARFENBERG
STAFF WRITER
Freshman Caprice Radman scrolls through Instagram to Bieber broke up. gain insight on her favorite celebrity couples. She is shocked “I feel like their relationship could’ve been ruined by the to see that multiple couples had ended their relationships media, and that’s sad,” Sandhu said. “They seemed like a very seemingly overnight. good couple.” In recent years, celebrity relationships have been heavily Social Studies teacher Ms. Sarah Monroe also believes focused on in the media. With the breakup of the iconic that media attention on celebrity couples should be limited. “Brangelina”, Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie, the media has She questions paparazzi’s motives when it comes to stalking only seemed to increase their coverage of famous Hollywood celebrities. couples. “I think paparazzi should allow “I think that celebrity couples people more privacy in general,” Ms. “I think paparazzi should allow are just like any couple,” Radman Monroe said. “Why do paparazzi people more privacy in general. said. “But I think that the spotlight care so much?” Why do paparazzi care so on these couples would be hard Even though many celebrities much?” because they would have extra have the pressure of their every pressure on their relationships.” move being analyzed, some people Although she agrees that the think that celebrity couples are just Ms. Monroe media does influence relationships, like normal couples. Ms. Monroe sophomore Anu Sandhu believes believes that they face the same that limiting their exposure to struggles as everyday couples. the public eye would benefit their “They are human at the end of relationships. the day, no matter how famous,” Monroe said. “I think celebrities should [limit their exposure] because According to Radman, all couples, no mater their fame, sometimes there could be a rumor going around that isn’t need to have faith in each other in order to have a successful true,” Sandhu said. “Also, a picture could be taken and some and healthy relationship. people could take it the wrong way.” “A successful relationship is definitely based on trust and She believes that this is why Selena Gomez and Justin honesty,” Radman said.
“People have nothing better to do with their lives, besides care about celeb break ups.” Olivia Weick, sophomore
“People are obsessed with other people’s drama and celebrities’ lives are put all over social media so people look to them to talk about. Katelyn Capitani, sophomore
THE TALON || SPRING 2018
PAGE 12 || ENTERTAINMENT
WHAT MUSIC SAYS ABOUT YOU
Does your taste in music give any clues to your personality? ANGELA MAMMEL COPY EDITOR
HEAVY METAL
You might have a tough exterior if you’re into heavy metal, but according to many studies in music psychology, listening to bands like Slayer could mean you have a gentle and creative personality. Many listen to these bands for an emotional outlet, and there’s no better way to let out the intense emotions.
CLASSICAL
Studies have linked listening to classical music to higher test scores and therefore admission to better colleges. If you like classical music, you’re also more likely to be creative and play an instrument yourself, picking up qualities of this genre more than the casual listener.
POP
Listening to the current hits on the radio can point out that you have a carefree and optimistic personality. You also tend to be more emotion-driven, often viewing relationships as more important than day-to-day responsibilities.
All photos courtesy of Creative Commons
ALT-ROCK
If your phone is full of jams by Bastille and twenty-one pilots, studies show that you tend to be on edge and introverted. Music psychologists have noticed that although rock music can bring out an edgy side of some people, those who listen to soft rock on the norm tend to be very easy-going and optimistic.
COUNTRY
It’s no surprise that listening to country music is linked with being patriotic. If you blast old Taylor Swift or Blake Shelton through your speakers, you’re most likely very easy-going and passionate about the things that matter to you. Although some can accuse you of being old-fashioned, you prove to be very loyal in relationships, holding tight to the ones you love the most.
PAGE 13 || OPINION
THE TALON STAFF Adviser: Mrs. Facca Editor-in-Chief: Lauren Karmo Editor-in-Chief: Makenzie Shubnell Copy and News Editor: Angela Mammel Feature Editor: Zoya Ahmed Entertainment and Lifestyles Editor: Taylor Simmons Sports Editor: Zoe Sawdon Photo and Design Editor: Violet Resh Web Editor: Noah Peterson Business Manager: Victoria Wendt Staff Writer: Amna Abbas Staff Writer: Colin Alison Staff Writer: Wyatt Anness Staff Writer: Megan Baker Staff Writer: Danya Black Staff Writer: James Brunk Staff Writer: Angela Cho Staff Writer: Autumn Daniels Staff Writer: Ellie Gnass Staff Writer: Mariam Hanna Staff Writer: Patrick Jordan Staff Writer: Soja Kureekkattil Staff Writer: Santiago Lynn Staff Writer: Tommy Ross Staff Writer: Emma Scharfenberg Staff Writer: Faith Schultz Staff Writer: Zaid Zaya
STAFF EDITORIAL:
THE TALON || SPRING 2018
Should we be doing more to take care of the Earth?
Ever since the declaration of the first Earth Day in 1970, more attention has been brought to what average citizens are and are not doing to protect the earth. The recent celebration of Earth Day brought many well-wishes on social media or by businesses around the country, but the extent of what each person is making an effort to do to save the earth beyond these exclamations remains to be seen. With the rise of global warming and other environmental issues, questions are being raised as to whether or not we as a society are doing enough for environmental conservation. While it may seem like many people have good intentions towards the environment and attempt to be conscious of their global footprint, many facts reported by climate scientists show that the environment continues to face manmade danger- fossil fuel emissions continue to rise by at least 2 percent a year, for example. At the same time, recycling has increased both in amount and popularity since 1970, and the Green Schools movement aids in keeping schools environmentally friendly, as well as educated about the importance of being kind to the earth. The popularity of Earth Day seems to grow each year, and many people take the day as an opportunity to volunteer to help the planet. In an anonymous and unbiased poll of The Talon staff members, 23 students believe that we are not doing enough to save the Earth as a society, while 1 student disagrees and feels that society is indeed environmentally conscious enough. The opinion of the overwhelming majority of The Talon’s staff is that we need to do more to protect the environment. This raises the question of whether Earth Day is celebrated due to the belief that we are not environmentally conscious enough as a The Talon is the official student publication of society. Rochester High School. We are now available both in The deforestation of the Amazons has drastically increased since the 1970s print and online editions. Check out rochestertalon.com, in an effort to create space for the cattle industry, but this destroys habitats and @rhstalon on Twitter, @falconsofrhs on Instagram and increases the amount of carbon emissions into the atmosphere. The worldwide like The Talon on Facebook for more great content. gradual temperature increase due to these carbon emissions causes ice caps to melt, The print edition of The Talon is issued monthly sea levels to rise, and flooding to occur. There are also “islands” entirely made out during the school year and is devoted to the interest of plastic in the middle of the Pacific due to the high level of worldwide waste. of the student body, parents and alumni of RHS. The Outside of large-scale environmental issues, people are also negatively impacting Talon strives to create a publication that is informative, the environment on a personal level by wasting water, using copious amounts entertaining, accurate and professional. of plastic packaging and eating meat nearly every day. Although they are simple The mission of The Talon is to accurately, truthfully everyday occurrences, these have immense negative impacts on the environment. and professionally report on events and issues that are Due to how often many people partake in these situations or more like them, of interest to the student body, entertain readers and it is easy to see how some believe that people are not doing enough to save the serve as a valuable archive of the happenings of the environment. school. However, many people truly care about the earth on a basic level, which is seen The views expressed in The Talon are those of the through how widely Earth Day is celebrated every year. Many people recycle, staff or individual staff writers and do not necessarily compost, have vegetable gardens or use dishwashers without a second thought, and represent the views of the administration. these have incredibly positive impacts on the environment as a whole. Groups like The editors encourage communications and reactions Greenpeace continue to grow in membership, and many donate to organizations from students, alumni, parents and friends of the school. such as the World Wildlife Fund on a regular basis. All communications must be signed, but signatures may Overall, it is most commonly believed that society needs to place more emphasis be withheld from publication upon request. The Talon on environmental conservation. However, the efforts of individual people should values feedback from the community on its articles and not go unnoticed, and most people truly care about the earth to some extent. Earth other media. However, we maintain the right to censor Day should absolutely continue to be celebrated to raise awareness both for what inappropriate dialogue in comments. we have accomplished environmentally, and how long we have to go as humans to ensure the earth is kept healthy for future generations to protect.
“We should do more for the Earth, because there is so much pollution around the world today.” Violet Resh, junior
THE TALON POLICY
MEMBERSHIPS
“Yes, we should do more to preserve environment for future generations.” Amna Abbas, junior
“Yes, we should be doing more to help the environment. It’s not to say that we aren’t doing anything, but as individuals, we must do our part.” Patrick Jordan, senior
PAGE 14 || LIFESTYLES
THE TALON || SPRING 2018
NO ONE EVER TOLD ME... ABOUT HIGH SCHOOL Nine seniors share things they were never told about high school ZOYA AHMED
FEATURE EDITOR
THE TALON || SPRING 2018
PAGE 15 || SPORTS
RHS SOFTBALL BRIEF
Varsity softball continues to prepare for their on-going season JAMES BRUNK
STAFF WRITER
This spring, the Rochester High School varsity softball team’s season kicked off on April 10. The team won the league last year, and is trying to earn the title again this year. The team has multiple seniors and returning players. Senior Jenna Norgrove, co-captain three years in a row, is getting ready for her last games at RHS. “With many returners and 6 seniors, I expect everyone to have good chemistry and work hard,” Norgrove said. The team has high goals for the season and post-season, such as winning a championship. “My goal for this season is for us to win a district championship,” said Norgrove. “We have a lot of returners and should have a pretty good year.” The expectations they have for each other are standards they hope to meet as well. Senior Victoria Wendt is becoming ready for her upcoming games. “I hope that we all work hard, have fun, and play our best,” Wendt said. “Hopefully winning comes
along with that.” Some are hoping the experience will help them further in life, such as college or even past that. Junior Emily Marrow is preparing to play college level. “Since I’m planning on playing in college,” Marrow said. “I’m hoping it will help prepare me for it.” The players believe they have some common strengths. But the team is aware of their weaknesses as well. “We’re a really strong hitting team this season, and our hitting is contagious and we struggle with errors, which are also contagious,” Wendt said. “If we make one we go downhill from there.” “The team has a strong chemistry and many talented players. Our biggest challenge would be to always keep pushing ourselves and never settle for the levels we are at.” said Norgrove. The team has a common goal to win the league for the season. “As a team, our goal is to win leagues again,” Wendt said. “From there, we want to win our district.”
Senior Victoria Wendt pitches against Stoney Creek. Photo courtesy of MIPrepzone.
CAPTAINS’ QUOTES “Our season is going great so “Our team goal is to win at least
far and I can’t wait to see where
one game. Our season is going
we go as the season continues.
very well, we just need to have
We’re meshing very well as a
better attendence.”
team and have some big dubs
Drew Gardner, Boys Lacrosse
coming in our future.”
Captain
Emily Yerge, Girls Lacrosse Captain