Frebruary 2005

“Every time you close your eyes, picture a little elf dancing in a field wearing the Squall as a hat.”

Sorry Charlie: Junior Charles Wolcott on stress and solo and ensemble. Section B The Kingdom Of Rock: Matt Guantlett tells us which 25 guitar solos can’t be beat. pg.6 February 25, 2005 Volume XVI, Issue 6

Dexter High School 2200N. Parker Road Dexter, MI 48130

Twisted Metal: Levitaing objects is only the beginning of freshman Ayra Soakansanj’s “Powers.” pg.3

In need of health care

Prom help needed

Problems arise with health benefits of paraeducators. Sandy Klein is one of the many affected.

Sam Harris entertainment editor

According to prom committee chair Colleen Tobin, who took over the position for janitor Sandy Klein, after losing many volunteers from the prom building committee, the future for prom might dim.

Because of the year’s budget cuts, Tobin said she may need more volunteers than usual.

“The prom committee has to raise around $14,000 to fund the Dexter High School Prom,” prom committee member Michelle Harris said.

According to Harris, prom planners have to seek out donations and buy prizes for the students. They also have to contact bands, D.J.’s, and other entertainment and line them up to perform. Many of the performers have to be paid out of the limited funds.

Although previous sets from other proms are stored in barns across the community, this recycling gives little advantage towards all the help the Prom Committee desperately needs.

Harris said new parents are greatly needed and encouraged to educate themselves on how Prom works. She said without all the parent’s help, there would be no prom.

“Many businesses in the area contribute materials for free to the Prom like lumber, paint, plants, paving stones, machines and trucks,” Harris said.

“The prom builders have to contact the businesses to see what they can have and to then take materials back after they are used. Many of the materials are large and heavy requiring many people and trucks to carry them in and out.”

Harris said, “It is a lot of work for all of the planners, volunteers, and parents, but its worth it when the students say, ‘This is the best Prom ever.’”

“

It is a lot of work for all of the planners, volunteers, and parents, but it’s worth it when the students say, ‘This is the best Prom ever.’

”

-Michelle Harris

Photo by Mike Vickers

Para pros battle over health benefits New contract does not provide health insurance Christina Field Photo manager

Graduation ceremony to be arranged alphabetically Jenny Heldt Features editor

Instead of walking in and out of the graduation ceremony with friends, secretary Joan Whitehead said the class of 2005 may be sitting in alphabetical order.

“It’s hard to change, but I think it’s for the better,” Whitehead said.

Previously administrators passed out forms to seniors who then chose a couple of friends they would like to sit by at graduation. Administrators then organized a list of who would walk with whom.

But according to Whitehead, this tradition of friend sitting with friend has actually torn some friendships apart.

“Last year we passed out the forms for who people wanted to sit with,” she said. “Some people didn’t have friends. Last year I remember two specific groups of three kids that were upset because one chose to walk with the other friend instead.”

Many students are upset by this new proposal, but according to senior and student council president Ryan Bruder, no one is willing to take action.

Bruder said there are about five seniors who actually show up to student council meetings.

“There are just too many things to do,” he said. “But no one will show up to help us. Earlier in the year we were talking about a senior parking lot. We had a meeting, but no one showed up. If you want it to change, show up. ” Principal Patrick Little said the only way he would consider going back to the old method of walking at graduation is if student council representatives present him with a petition.

So unless the class of 2005 does something about this new graduation formal, Little said students will be walking up to receive their diplomas in alphabetical order, the way which he said is the easiest for the administration to organize.

“There are no laws on how (the ceremony) is run,” he said. “So it was really easy to change. (The administration) gets to organize graduation the way we want to.”

Law and order: Para-educator Dee Braden keeps track of students as they eat their food during A-Lunch.

Braden became a para-educator after Sandy Klein left to become a janitor at Mill Creek.

“

There are just too many things to do...

But no one will show up to help us. Earlier in the year we were talking about a senior parking lot. We had a meeting, but no one showed up.

If you want it to change, show up.

”

- Ryan Bruder, senior

The contract for district paraprofessionals (now referred to as para-educators) was settled in December. In the contract the Dexter Education Support Personal Association (DESPA) asked for higher wages, health benefits, insurance benefits, more sick days and pay for more holidays and snow days.

Although they received a 1.5 percent pay raise and two funeral days, they still continue to have no health benefits.

Gina Newell, secretary-treasurer of DESPA, said that when the para-educator union was added to the system, the conditions were decided by whoever the superintendent was at the time and health benefits were never negotiated.

“Once you start off (without benefits) it’s hard to go back,” Newell said. “We can’t go back in time; we can only go from this point.”

Every three years, Newell said para-educators fight for health benefits. The contract goes to the Board of Education where there are teams to support both sides of the negotiating.

However, para-educators continue to have no health coverage.

A part of the reason for this is that they are considered to be part-time employees since they fall a few hours short of working 40-hour weeks.

Although para-educators don’t receive regular health benefits, they have the option of a Section 125 plan that is offered to all Dexter

employees. A Section 125 plan allows the employee to set aside money, before taxes, for an employee to use for such expenses as health care.

“After the first full year of completion, (an employee) can get $250 the next year and then $50 more each year with a maximum of $500,” said Sandy Klein, a Mill Creek Middle School janitor. “It can be used for medical (means) or day care.”

With money in these accounts, the District is setting aside a large sum of money, according to Newell. “... The district has to take personnel time, times the maximum amount (per employee) and put that money aside,” she said. “The para pros get the highest reimbursement amount of the Section 125 act,” Newell said. However, Newell added that $250 - $500 is not a lot of money especially if the employee is trying to cover a whole family.

According to Newell, it would be difficult for the district to budget more money for para-educators’ health benefits. The cost of health care for the district has increased 50 percent or one million dollars in the last three years.

But Newell said, the para-educator union will continue to fight for health care benefits. “We will fight again in three years,” Newell said.

“And hopefully the district will realize this and put money aside (for benefits).”

Newell also said, “We do want the better for the district. Every job is important ... We just want to make sure we have the right number of staff to make sure students get what they need.”

Superintendent Evelynn Shirk was not available for comment, and assistant superintendent Glen Stevenson said he could not comment on negotiations.

Klein moves positions to gain benefits.

Sandy Klein, who has been working in the Dexter district for a total of 15 years as a bus driver and a paraprofessional, recently switched jobs from working at Dexter High School as a para-educator to a janitor at Mill Creek Middle School.

Klein, along with all para-educators in the Dexter school district, received no health benefits. Although she said she worked 35 - 36 hours a week, she did not meet the 40-hour mark needed to be considered fulltime and receive benefits.

Klein’s family was uninsured for health, due to her husband being self-employed, so Klein made a move to get health insurance.

Klein said, “As a para pro, you can pick up benefits at the central office at Copeland and you can (get) insurance for single or family coverage. Family coverage is about $911 a month and single coverage is $350 a month ... I picked up the insurance for our family.”

Money from each of Klein’s paychecks would be taken out if it to put towards health care. That $911 a month is multiplied by 12 for every month of the year and then divide the number of paychecks she received, about 20 per year, and that amount was taken from each paycheck. This way health care is there for the family all year round.

As a para-educator earning $14,000 a year, the amount taken from each of her paychecks really added up, she said. “I (got) $14,000 a year and paid about $11,000 - $12,000 a year for health insurance,” Klein said.

When a Mill Creek janitor resigned, Klein took up that opportunity. Her position at the high school was filled by Connie Agostini

New contract includes higher wages and more sick days but no health benefits

Photo by Christina Field

Mill Creek: Sandy Klein takes out the trash, a new part of her occupation. Although she misses the high school, Klein said she is happy in her new position. who was working only part-time as a para-educator, and then Dee Braden took Agostini’s position.

Since Klein now works 40 hours a week, she is able to receive the health benefits. Janitors also have $20,000 life insurance.

Other perks she said were, “Now I get accumulated vacation days whereas I didn’t have any as a para pro ... And I have more sick days and personal days.”

Klein said para-educators should receive health benefits like the rest of the staff in Dexter schools. “Para pros work hard every day and work with kids and don’t get paid enough.”

As for her new job, Klein said, “I miss the kids and the people ... It’s different (here). I’m adjusting.”

School library fails to meet students standards Hillary McCown copy editor

Many students felt pressure during final exam week. The battle between studying and getting enough sleep to stay awake took a toll. The school, though, provided students with the ability to do both. Giving students an hour between each exam to study for the next helped to make sure some kids weren’t cramming the night before.

The problem, though, wasn’t having enough time to study. Many said it wasn’t having a place.

The library would be a sensible solution, but it wasn’t open during exam week, placing students in a difficult position.

Studying in the cafeteria was one option, but according to junior Kayla Larson, it was too noisy and distracting. “The library is quiet so it is easier to work in, “Larson said. “Someone should come in early during exams at least to help students out.”

The problem not only affects students during exams, though. The library is rarely open before school for more than 15 minutes and is never open after school for more than an hour.

There seems to be some conflict as to who to hold responsible for the library’s inconvenient hours, though. Media Specialist Jeanine Fletcher said that while she “fully endorse(s) being open” before and after school, it is up to principal Pat Little to set the Media Center’s hours.

Little, however, said that, “Mrs. Fletcher is only obligated to keep (the library) open as if it were a regular classroom. She is a teacher, and her contract specifies her hours.”

Both Fletcher and Little agree that the media center does need to be an available resource for students, not only during school hours, but after them as well.

“I would like to find a way to keep it open beyond (Fletcher’s) teaching

hours,” Little said. For a number of weeks towards the beginning of this school year, Little and Fletcher made an announcement in the school’s weekly bulletin, requesting parent volunteers to chaperone the students before and after school.

However, only two parents responded to the call, a number which Little says wouldn’t be near enough.

Many have suggested the use of the public libraries in Dexter and Ann Arbor. But aside from being an inconvenience for those students who can’t drive, Fletcher said the setting of a public library isn’t the right one for students.

“The (DHS) library is designed for high school curriculum,” Fletcher said. “The district library is public and it set up for children and story time. It’s not set up for curriculum.”

While Little and Fletcher agree that there is a problem, both remain unsure as to how to solve it. Little said, “It’s a big concern, and we are open to ideas.”

Photo by Sarah Craft

Class project: During his Graph-X class second hour, senior Richie Scannell works on a project in the library.

Many students, teachers and administrators say the library should be opened longer hours.

2

the Squall

news

Friday, February 25, 2005

Essay added to SAT

Photo by Sarah Craft

Taking a deep breath: Although nervous the first time he entered the high school, assistant principal Joe Monte said he was happy with how friendly the students and staff are. Here he talks with juniors Elizabeth Morse and Janelle Nystrom during their lunch.

Effective March 12, there will be a new SAT reasoning test. The test was changed to better show the education received in high school. Among the changes, the analogies part of the test will be replaced by more critical reading from a variety of texts. There will also be a written portion added that will require the student to take a stand on an issue and use supporting examples in order to strengthen their argument.

These essays will be graded by trained high school and college teachers who have had more than three years of teaching experience.

There is also a third-year college preparatory math section that will be added. Despite the change, the test will remain as a reasoning test that shows the student’s ability to use reason and logic to answer questions correctly. On the SAT web site, they advise students of the class of 2006, who have taken the old test, to check admission requirements to colleges they plan to apply to in order to make sure the new SAT is not required.

Kujala recovers from car accident Senior Karie Kujala was involved in a serious car accident in Brighton on Feb 5.

Kujala and her boyfriend, 2004 graduate Ben Reynolds, were heading to a movie in Brighton when Kujala pulled out in front of a truck.

The truck hit the broadside of Kujala’s car before running into a van pulling out of a parking lot. The driver in the van was not seriously injured, but Kujala was airlifted to the University of Michigan Motts Hospital where she stayed in the intensive care unit until later the following week when she was transferred to the recovery ward.

Reynolds was released from U of M hospital on Monday after going into a brief coma.

Kujala’s friend senior Kim Evanski said Kujala is doing better and is stable and breathing on her own and is semiconscious.

Kujala’s parents say that although they appreciate the concern, they would like people to wait to visit until she is fully awake and alert.

Monte comes out of retirement to become assistant principal New AP brings with him years of experience to the school district Michelle Svetkoff managing editor

Taking a deep breath, he looked down the corridors puzzled by the winding hallways. Unsure about which direction to go, he looked to see if anyone was around.

Para pro Connie Agostini’s face met his confused gaze, and she showed him the way around the school.

Later, some helpful students guided him to his final destination: the vice-principal’s office.

Shyly, new vice-principal Joseph Monte opened the door to his office and to his new job with Dexter Schools.

Monte said the willingness of students to help him find his office on his first day was a good sign.

“I like kids to feel good about “(Students) were really helpful,” he said. “And I thought, ‘Boy that is themselves,” he said. “I don’t bea good sign when the kids are willing lieve that there are bad kids. I think that sometimes to help this old man kids do things that trying to find his are wrong, but it way around’.” doesn’t necessarily And old man mean that they are or not, Monte said Students are the bad.” he is ready to help future of our Mill Creek Prinbring a new, posicipal Jami Brontive perspective to world, of our son, who was part Dexter. country. of the committee “...Sometimes who interviewed you see things difMonte, said that ferently,” he said. experience was a “When you come key aspect to the from one place to -Joe Monte committee hiring another place that assistant principal him. is not the same, you “He spent many bring a different years as a principal perspective.” before retiring,” she said, Monte, who worked in the Belleville school district until his retire- “bringing with him a vast amount of ment, was a principal and also taught experience minimizing the learning at the high school, middle school and curve allowing him to hit the ground running.” elementary level.

Monte added that helping stuMonte said this variety of experience in education can help Dexter dents is important because he sees students because he said he doesn’t young people as the future. “(Students) are the future of our believe that kids are either only good world, of our country,” he said. or only bad.

“

”

Photo by Brandon Mayotte

Last minute cramming: Junior Maegan Michalik spent time between exams studying. In past years Michalik said enjoyed going out to eat with her friends during exams.

Photo by Sarah Craft

Open eyed: Even after retiring from the Belville school district, Monte said he had to come back. “I thought as a principal you sort of have more students you’re working with, then I thought maybe I could make a bigger impact ... On kids education.”

“I want us to, as an older adult, to feel like we live in a safe, helpful, progressive country.”

Community service for MEAP money into effect Service guidelines to be decided on March 28 Raleigh Holmes morale manager

When students came back to school in the fall, they learned many new things.

Not just that the school had new teachers such as Mr.. Dudash or Mr..

Bease, or that Mr... Stevenson would be leaving half way through the year, but also that the $2500 that 71% of Dexter students receive as part of the Michigan Merit Award would have new qualifications.

Before this year, Michigan high school students needed to score 1 and 2’s on all the subjects in the test

Science teacher Cheryl Wells and (on the scale of one to four, one is the special education teacher Mary Holst highest) to receive the $2500.

Now students must earn those co-chair DHS’ committee.

On March 28, a records day for scores and complete 40 hours of comteachers and a day off for students, munity service to get this money.

Gov. Granholm and the state leg- this committee will meet to develop islature passed this resolution on requirements. The only guidelines August 17, 2004, and this new policy set by the state say that students will begin with the class of 2006, the must complete 40 hours of community sercurrent juvice which niors. can’t be T h e For the juniors it’s going done durcommuto be hard to accomplish ing school nity service all those hours because hours and must be students completed they can’t even start until must have before June they know the deadlines. someone 30 of every else sign a class’ gradsheet veriuating year -Sara Dansky fying they or students curriculum consultant did the serwill not revice. ceive the S o m e money.

Although the proposal was Gra- think that this community service nholm’s, it is the responsibility of requirement is unfair to the stueach high school in the state to orga- dents who are consistently working nize, track each student and set spe- because they have to pay for college cific guidelines for what qualifies as themselves and therefore don’t have enough time to do these hours. community service.

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”

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Junior Laura Schultz is one of them. “I think that work should count towards some of the hours,” she said. “Otherwise it would be unfair to those kids since they don’t have enough time.”

Curriculum consultant Sara Dansky coordinates the MEAP for all DHS schools. She said the community service policy is a good idea but is unfair to some.

“I think for the freshman class it’s a wonderful idea, because they will have four years to complete the 40 hours,” she said. “But for the juniors it’s going to be really hard to accomplish all those hours because they can’t even start until they know the guidelines, which won’t be decided until March 28.

Schultz agrees with Dansky. “I think the hours should be divided for the juniors since it’s a new policy,” she said.

According to Michigan.gov, Granholm said that her reasoning for requiring community service is that many colleges are looking for more community service from incoming students.

Some students upset over exam schedule change Kyle Muse news editor

For junior Maegan Michalik, the new exam schedule of six exams in two days instead of three, meant late nights, early mornings, lots of studying and lots of sleep deprivation.

“I had five exams,” Michalik said. “I thought it was just too much to study for each day of exams.”

Michalik said that during her first break she hung out at school and studied but made it out to lunch for the second break.

However, for freshman Don Knight, the schedule wasn’t that hard.

“I didn’t study too much,” Knight said. “I had four exams but only studied about two hours.”

Unlike Michalik, Knight liked the exam schedule.

“I didn’t do much the weekend before,” he said. “I hung out with my friends. I didn’t study until Monday and Tuesday night.”

For math teacher Brian Baird, the new exam schedule didn’t necessarily affect the difficulty of his week, but he said it did cause more of a curve on the final.

“The scores were a little lower this time, but we also had more snow days,” Baird said.

“It was a lot harder for students I think, in terms of sleep, studying and anticipating the tests they had to take.

“With all things equal, I would like to see the schedule go back to how it was.”

Even though grades are a big concern to most students, faculty supervision over students is also a factor in the decision to change the

exam schedule principal Patrick Little said.

“We had one hour before and after school that most students did not use to get teacher help, as well as an hour for lunch that was mostly unused,” he said.

“There are also those hours before school that freshman are waiting for the bus, where supervision is needed.”

Little also said the exam schedule was changed because the school was not in compliance with the number of hours the state requires school to be in session.

He added, “The exams this semester will be different because we end on a half day, so we will look at it differently.” He said. “We will make a decision with input from the faculty, as well as with concern for the students.”

Assistant superintendant and formal principal, Glen Stevenson, said the exam schedule doesn’t affect his job much, but he does have concerns for the students in terms of the workload and the rushed scheduling.

“Two days was a tight schedule, and I worry about students rushing all over the place to make it back to the school,” he said. “I recommend three half days.”

Little also believes the exam schedule will likely be changed by the end of the year. “The schedule could be changed by second semester. We need to count up the hours to see if we have room to spread it out an extra day.

“It is more likely we will be able to change it for the second semester because we end on a half day so it gives us more of a chance to change it.”

Friday, February 25, 2005

3

the Squall

feature

Coast skates around the world Student balances academic, skating, and family commitments while excelling in figure skating goals Sara Newell circulation manager

Four hours a day, six days a week junior Alyssa Coast dedicates her life to skating. From everyday practices at the Ann Arbor Ice Cube to competitions around the world, Coast has spent the last eight years perfecting her talent.

“I have been skating for eight years,” she said. “I skate on a team

called the Hocketts and compete individually as well.” Not only does Coast spend countless hours on ice, her skating requires off-ice workouts and dance classes as well.

On most nights Coast said she doesn’t get home until 10:45 to start her homework, but said she is always willing to put in the long nights to get everything done. “It’s a lot of work, but it’s always worth it,” she said.

“Even with the bumps and bruises.

“I’ve had ice burns, cuts and stabbed but nothing stitches couldn’t fix,” she said. “Despite what the stereotype might be, skating is not a girly girl sport. I’m not a girly girl, so I don’t agree with it.”

And through skating Coast has had many opportunities to travel to

places for competitions. “I have been to Rouen, France; Zagreb, Croatia; Neuchatel, Switzerland; Prague, Czech Republic; and Berlin, Germany,” Coast said. “Plus all over the United States.”

Traveling overseas can bring great opportunities to learn about new cultures and countries. “I have been to different embassies in the places I have gone,” Coast said. “I have learned a lot about cultures and the politics of other countries.”

Even though traveling has been a great opportunity for Coast, not every trip runs smoothly. “In eighth grade, when my team was traveling to France, the airline lost all of our skates,” she said. “We didn’t get them back until after our first prac-

tice time.”

But lost skates have not been the only problem. Problems with communication have made travel difficult for Coast and her team as well.

“There are a lot of language barriers in every country we go to,” she said.

“Sometimes it’s hard to get to places we are trying to go.”

Not only are there language barriers, but there are also safety issues.

“We can’t wear our USA attire when we travel,” Coast said. “We try not to attract any positive or negative attention.”

However, with all of the travel involved, Coast misses a lot of school time. “I had to miss exam week and take them early because my team was going to Berlin to compete for

the Berlin Cup,” she said. “I miss a lot of school, but my friends are really supportive and help me with the things I miss.”

Nevertheless, Coast still deals with the consequences of missing school.

“I usually miss 15 days a year, plus or minus a few,” she said. “It’s hard.

My third quarter grades usually suffer because that is when most of our competitions are, but most of my teachers are OK and understanding.

They always try to help keep me up to date. I try to get all of my work done before I leave. It’s easier that way.”

Coast said her parents have helped her as well. “My parents are very supportive. They pay for me to do it, and they always come to watch me at competitions.”

Competition Structure •Competitions run for two days •First day is the short program - 2 1/2 minute program - 2/5 of final score •2nd day is the free program - 4 plus minute program - 3/5 of final score Information from Alyssa Coast

Bahm’s return for senior year unexpected Jenny Heldt feature editor

Photo by Sarah Craft

Just like magic: Freshmen Arya Sokansanj uses his telekinetic powers to apparently levitate a ball of paper. Solkansanj said he has been practicing telekinesis for over seven years. He claims to be able to bend things, stop clocks, melt and freeze things and even read minds.

Super human, super natural or super smart?

Freshmen inspired by ‘Matilda’ practices levitation and bending metal Hillary McCown copy editor

In a dimly lit room, holding nothing but a piece of crumpled up paper, freshmen Arya Sokansanj closed his eyes, took a deep breath and seemingly forced a paper ball to rise out of his hand. Levitating in mid air, the ball floated for about 15 seconds before gravity took control, and it fell back into his palm.

With his heart pounding much faster than normal, Sokansanj sat down before performing his next task. “It’s difficult to do a lot at one time,” he said referring to his apparent ability to control objects. “I have to build up the energy beforehand.”

After resting for a minute, Sokansanj pulled a fork out of his bag. After letting volunteers test it to make sure it was real, he took it back, waved his hand over it while moving the fork in the air, and spread the prongs out like a fan, all in one fast motion. Then he stared at the fork and using two fingers, appeared to twist each prong into a spiral with incredible ease.

“I just try to imagine (the metal) is liquid,” Sokansanj said. “Then it just bends for me.”

period is required to build up the The levitating paper and bent needed energy. fork were strange enough, but Though Conrad thinks he has what truly amazed bystanders was found the answer, there are other Sokansanj’s success in levitating a theories surrounding telekinesis. bent fork and a pen.

Research shows that humans Sokansanj’s talent may seem only use 10-15 percent of their brain, unbelievable, but some researchcausing some psychologists to beers and psychologists believe that lieve that the ability to use more of it’s real. Not only that, but some say our brain power would result in the that everyone may have the power telekinetic behaviors that much of to bend metal and levitate objects. society views as “strange” or “abnor“The energy forming the basis of mal.” the telekinetic motive power emaAnother nates from the theory is that head region, not people with the hands, and I was watching ‘Matil- t e l e k i n e t i c not the body as a da’ and I thought ‘Why powers have whole,” James A. the ability to Conrad, a telekican’t I do that?’ magnetically netic researcher, -Ayra Soakansanj, control objects said. “It activates around them.

Freshmen briefly in a conSome specialtrollable on or off ists think that mode by means telekinesis is of a learned mena simple matter of taking hold of a tal triggering process and requires magnetic field that surrounds all oba short duration of metabolic rejects on Earth and using it to control charging, with an increase of effect the object of your choice. observed the longer the rest or inacSokansanj believes it is a comtivation period.” bination of the two. “When I move In short, Conrad’s research metal, I’m pretty sure I’m creating shows that telekinetic energy might a magnetic field,” he said. “But the come from the brain, that it is both brain theory makes a lot of sense a conscious and unconscious occurtoo.” rence, and it can be learned. Also, Sokansanj said he, was very young Conrad says in order to perform multiple or difficult tasks (such as when he discovered his “powers”.

“I was like eight and I was watchlifting heavy objects), a meditation

“

”

ing ‘Matilda’ and I thought ‘Why can’t I do that?’ So I went upstairs and spent 45 minutes in my room until I finally (moved a staple across the table)”.

Now, after almost seven years of practice, Sokansanj says he is able to do much more.

As well as bending metal, moving objects and floating things, he says he can also stop clocks, melt and freeze various items and read minds.

In recent months, Sokansanj has even developed his talent into a part time job. Walking on street corners and going to restaurants, he performs for audiences in hopes for cash. In a good night, Sokansanj said he can make up to $120.

This street performing idea came to him from his heroes, David Blaine and Uri Gellar, two very famous street magicians who have made a living showing off their bizarre abilities.

“I would like to be a street magician or something when I grow up,” Sokansanj said.

While Sokansanj does get admiration from his friends for his abilities, he is used to the skeptics who constantly ask him to prove himself.

“Everybody has a lot of opinions on me,” he said. “It gets really annoying, but they can believe what they want. I know that it’s real and that’s all that matters.”

thought it was a bad idea. I was really upset, so I dropped out of the program three months before I was “I’ve noticed The Squall has supposed to graduate.” written a lot of articles on deBut, Bahm came back to Dexpression recently,” senior Molly ter for her final semester of high Bahm said. “I guess it started in school. sixth grade. I didn’t even realize “Looking back,” she said, “dropI was depressed. I thought I was ping out was a huge mistake for me, just unhappy with my lack of real but I don’t regret making that misfriends.” take.

Bahm recently returned to “I am definitely more mature in Dexter to finish her last semes- the way I think now, and after beter of high school after being at a ing out of school for a while, I realresidential treatment center in Salt ize that all those petty things I used Lake City, Utah. to be so wrapped up in before mean “It’s an intense program,” she nothing. said. “I went to school there as well “Even though I go back to thinkas seeing a therapist regularly.” ing I need to be someone else to be According to the Canadian cool, I realized that all the drama Journal of Medicine recent stud- here doesn’t matter anyway. And ies show more than 20 percent of it’s great because all that therapy adolescents have emotional prob- helped me see that. I still care what lems and one-third of adolescents people think ... But who doesn’t?” attending psychiatric clinics suffer Something Bahm has to worry from depression. about that others don’t is she has to Despite this problem, depres- support herself. sion in teens is under diagnosed, “I don’t live with my parents anyCJM stated. This leads to serious more,” she said. “I chose to get out difficulties in of that situation. I school, work don’t have to pay No matter how much rent, but I paid and personal adjustment. therapy you have, it’s for my own car.

Teens are And now I have all within you. often deto pay for insurpressed beance, gas, phone cause adolesbills, and whatever -Molly Bahm cence is a time else I need. I have senior of emotional to pay for a lot of turmoil, mood liability, things that people our age take for gloomy introspection, great drama granted.” and heightened sensitivity. It is Bahm paused and looked down also a time of rebellion and behav- at her paper. “I had to pay for my ioral experimentation. cap, gown and tassel for graduation “The reason I went (to Utah) ... The program I went to was very was because I needed help. I had expensive, so now I have to pay for recently been hospitalized two college myself too,” she said with a times for a total of three weeks last look of concern. summer. I needed to get healthy,” “I am going to be buried in stuBahm said staring out the window. dent loans for the rest of my life,” “I dropped out and left Salt Lake, she said forcing a laugh. “But I but I wanted to finish high school, guess it’s better than what I was goso I came back here. I look at ing through before.

(Utah) like a retreat from my life.”

“No matter how much therapy Being at the facility for nine you have, it’s all within you. The months out of her life, Bahm felt most important thing is that I got like she was stopping her life to the help I needed,” she said. “I still solve her problems. fight these issues every day, but now “I just wanted to be normal,” I know how to face them.

Bahm said. “I had never felt nor“I just want to finish high school mal. I was always different I guess, and then get out of here,” she said. being adopted, my relationship “(My diploma) will help me get with my parents, my relationship a better job. I could’ve gone anywith the people I went to school where, but I am familiar with this with, etc. After being in this pro- place so I just decided to come here. gram for a while, I wanted to come Coming back to Dexter is like closback and try finishing school like ing a chapter of my life ... Once I everyone else. graduate I’ll just move on, like ev“My parents and my therapist eryone else.”

“

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4

the Squall

features

Friday, February 25, 2005

Poets, story tellers and song writers

A pen in hand Wooten shares his poetry in hopes of others discovering their own

Sarah Craft editor in chief

Two stools, an opened bottle of water, and an old suitcase, which stood as a display case for his poetry books, were on stage as students filed into the CPA. “There are a lot of people coming in,” poet Terry Wooten said almost to himself. “I was only expecting 75.”

He climbed onto the stage and stretched as he watched his audience enter. He swung his arms from side to side and did somewhat of a rhythmic dance with his feet as he warmed up.

Tap, stomp. Tap, stomp. It echoed through the open area, and students started to quiet.

Wooten began his presentation by telling his audience he had over eight hours of poetry memorized.

“Once I had about 200 poems memorized, it was hard for me to keep track of which ones I had memorized,” he said.

“Ackerman,” he began. He continued through the list of poets and paused when he came to Wooten.

“That’s me,” he said. “That’s my favorite.”

Besides running Stone Circle, a summer gathering place for poets, story tellers and song writers, Wooten goes to schools around the country to run workshops to talk to students about writing.

“First of all, schools are usually the ones that will pay me,” he said.

“And, of course, there’s also the fact that I love working with kids.”

Sophomore Craonae Howell saw Wooten’s presentation, and although she is more interested in Slam poetry, she said it was nice to see a poet in the school.

“I know I want to incorporate (poetry) into my life for as long as I can,” she said.

“Maybe not necessarily as a career, but I definitely want to keep poetry as a part of my life and seeing how (Wooten) did it, helped me see how I can do it.”

For anyone interested in writing, whether it is poetry, stories or songs, Wooten told his audience to always carry around a pen.

“Always listen to what people say,” he said.

“You never know what people are going to say and that might spark an idea that could lead to something great.”

Finding the right job Searching for a job? By asking these questions, you will know which jobs to look for and which places to apply. Panera Bread and Barry’s Bagel’s are currently notable places to apply.

Q A A Q A Q A Q A A

When are you hiring?

PANERA- Applicants all during the year, the sooner you’re available the better

BARRY’S- I hire employees when positions become available.

How many positions are available?

BARRY’S- The amount of positions available depends on how many people are leaving. I have a year round staff of 36 employees.

What hours/how many hours do you offer?

PANERA- No guarantee, they are very flexible and try to get as many hours as they can, usually people have from 15-35 hours What is the hourly pay/salary for each position?

PANERA- Rate based on experience and positions you have had in the past

BARRY’S- Pay starts at $7.75 and from there depends of job and experience.

Information compiled by Michelle Svetkoff

Photo by Sarah Craft

Preaching the poetry: Poet Terry Wooten presents his passion for poetry in front of an attentive crowd in the Dexter High School CPA on Wednesday, Jan. 26. Wooten said he has over eight hours of poems memorized, many of which are his own.

Seniors leave high school a semester early Molly Brewster morale manager

As other students studied for their exams, Lindsey Aeschliman, one of five seniors who graduated early this year, prepared to leave high school behind and move into her dorm at Central Michigan University.

“One night my sister and I just stayed up talking about how I was sick of high school,” Aeschliman said.

“It wasn’t that I was sick of the people, but there really weren’t any more classes for me to take that would help me with what I wanted to do in life.”

Aeschliman said her older sister, Amanda, suggested she graduate early and join her at Central. To Lindsey it seemed like the perfect choice.

“My sister was the biggest influence on my decision to graduate early,” she said. “I was just really sick of high school and wanted out. Graduating early let me do that.”

Lindsey immediately set up an appointment in the counselors’ office where she checked to make sure she would have enough credits.

Counselor Larry LeBlanc approved Lindsey’s decision because he said she was doing it for the right reasons.

“Lindsey had a good high school experience, but she was ready to move on,” he said. “My only concern for her or any student that graduates early is that they will miss out on the chemistry that goes on between the entire senior class second semester.”

With LeBlanc’s assistance Lindsey was able to enroll in a correspondence class so she would have 22 credits by the end of her second semester.

“I knew things would get hectic with my last semester of high school,” she said. “Mr.. LeBlanc helped me get my correspondence class over with junior year, so I wouldn’t have too much pressure my senior year.”

The least stressful decision Lindsey had to make was choosing where to go to school after high school.

“I knew I wanted to go to college, and I didn’t feel like sorting out all of the possibilities of where I could go to college,” she said. “I had already been to Central to visit my sister and knew quite a few people so it seemed like the right choice.”

The decision was easy to make, but the transition from high school to college was much different.

“I graduated on a Friday and moved in the following Monday,” she said. “I wasn’t as prepared as I thought I was. After I moved in I, realized I hadn’t even had a full tour of the campus yet, so I didn’t know where any of my classes were.”

Besides finding her classes, Lindsey had to adjust to her new roommates.

“The biggest downside of starting school a semester later than everyone else was the fact that all my roommates had been living together since September,” she said. “I felt like I was intruding on them. Two of the girls were really welcoming, but the other wasn’t at all. That was the only time I thought my decision to graduate early was a mistake.”

Since then, Lindsey said she has become comfortable with her new life and has learned to handle her roommates.

“I always had heard the horror stories of bad roommates,” she said. “We are opposites, and I know there is nothing I can do to change that. Instead of staying in my dorm, I spend a lot of time with my sister and her friends.”

Spending time with students more experienced with the campus and classes has made the change from high school to college courses much easier.

“The first weeks I had to decide what classes to keep and what to drop which was stressful,” Lindsey said. “But the class work isn’t too difficult. Everything is on the syllabus so you have to be really responsible. No one reminds you when things are due.”

Although Lindsey graduated -Lindsey early to get into college faster, others, like Dannette Zink, do it because they can.

There was a point last year when Zink didn’t think she would be able to graduate with her class, let alone graduate early.

“I missed about a month of school my junior year because of knee surgery,” Zink said. “Missing school and losing credit in some academic classes combined with the fact that I was taking Cosmetology didn’t give me enough credits to graduate in June.”

After visiting with her counselor to decide to earn enough credits to graduate on time, she began taking a correspondence class outside of school to earn more credit. “(Counselor Gerry) Holmes suggested that I take a correspondence class to earn credit,” Zink said. “After taking correspondence classes, I went from not having enough credit to having more credit than I needed.”

Zink met with her counselor regularly over her junior

“

year to keep track of her correspondence work and credits. And it was during one of these meeting that Holmes gave the suggestion Zink graduate early.

“I thought the best I could do was get a reduced schedule senior year,” Zink said. “Mrs.. Holmes told me if I wanted I could just graduate early, and I instantly knew that was something I wanted to do.”

Zink found the same stresses as Aeschliman when it came to her last semester of high school.

“I had to find out what classes I needed to take to make sure I had enough credit in English,” she said. “Mrs. Holmes was really helpful in making sure everything would work out.”

Zink was done with school Jan. 20 after taking her final exams. “It didn’t really set in that I was done with school until the Sunday after I graduated,” she said. “I was at my friend’s house, and her dad told her not to stay up too late because she had school the next day. I was like, ‘Wow, I don’t have to worry about that.’”

Since graduation Zink said she has spent most of her time sleeping in and hanging around her house.

“Now I am starting to look for a job because I am not planning Aeschliman on taking classes at Washtenaw until this summer, so I just want to make some money,” she said.

Zink sometimes forgets her friends are still in high school.

“It’s hard because I forget my friends can’t hang out with me whenever I want,” she said. “It’s those people that I would see in the hallway or have class with that I wasn’t necessarily friends with. Those are the people that I will miss because chances are I won’t see any of them again.”

Both Aeschliman and Zink say they are both looking forward to the closure graduation will bring.

“I will be excited to see everyone, but if things are weird I don’t have to worry about it because I probably won’t see some of the people from high school again,” Aeschliman said.

“No matter how graduation goes it will bring resolution that any graduate needs, no matter if they are done in January or May.”

My sister was the biggest influence on my decision to graduate early. I was just really sick of high school and wanted out. Graduating early let me do that.

”

Friday, February 25, 2005

5

the Squall

entertainment

Book review

Dante’s ‘Inferno’ a literary classic Sam Harris entertainment editor

Upon opening the first pages of “The Inferno” by Dante Alighieri, I found that the whole story was written in a poem format. After the conclusion of a chapter, John Ciardi, the translator, makes clear and explains the references to mythology and current events of the time which influenced Dante’s work.

Do not be intimidated by how this story is written. It’s very easy to follow. Dante is considered the best writer of his time next to Shakespeare. Along with “The Inferno”, Dante also wrote “The New Life”, “Il convivio” (c. 1304-07; The Banquet), and “De vulgarly eloquentia” (1303-07; Eloquence in the Vernacular Tongue).

I was first inspired by junior Joey Kesling to read this masterpiece after listening to him describe just one of the disgustingly morbid scenes.

Although ghastly and gross, I was somehow hooked by the book already. That weekend I went to Border’s and picked up a copy for myself. While reading some of my peers a chapter from “The Inferno”, I looked up to pause and saw horrid, terrified and disturbed expressions staring back at me. “...Those souls who in life were for good nor evil but only for themselves...as they run they are pursued by swarms of wasps and hornets, who sting them and produce a constant flow of blood and putrid matter which trickles down the bodies of the sinners and is feasted upon by loathsome worms and maggots who coat the ground.”(Dante, 41).

I have to give so much credit to Dante for creating such vivid images and scenes in the reader’s mind.

For a writer of his time, this piece is really a radical and intriguing accomplishment.

Impurity, sin and damnation.

Dante, a middle aged pilgrim, only recently has felt less than holy. For concern of his future decisions, guidance from his holy friend, Beatrice, is sent.

Virgil, a famous Roman Poet, travels through the nine gates of Hell with Dante as his holy guide.

Throughout the whole book Dante is shown the consequences for the different sins a soul can commit.

The first gate and first circle into Hell consists of non-sinners yet they were condemned, which is what Virgil is. They were born without baptism or were born before Christ.

There are famous characters such as Electra, Caesar, Camilla, Penthesilea, the Latian King and Saladin. Along with these characters, famous philosophers such as

Diogenes, Thales, Anaxoras, Dioscorides, Orpheus, Tully, Linus, Seneca, Euclid, Ptolemy, Galen, Hippocrates, Avicenna and Averroes dwell here for they have not sinned but have philosophized.

Here there is still a “hemisphere of light” and as they travel deeper into Hell less light is seen.They travel through several “circles” towards the next gates.

As they progress through the different circles and levels of Hell.

The sites and suffering that Dante witnesses are horribly disturbing.

Dante wonders what sin could a soul commit to deserve such punishment for eternity.

As they venture further, Virgil is no longer able to fend off the evil creatures that lurk in the murky depths.

Virgil sends for holy guidance and awaits patiently for an angel to appear and lead the way.

Fallen angels surround the pair and Dante is overwhelmed, causing him to faint numerous times.

The description of such characters in this book is amazing.

I can’t help but want to make a movie, similar to L.O.T.R., with incredible computer graphics.

Finally, after trials and a long journey, Dante reaches the lowest level of hell where Lord Lucifer awaits.

Lucifer is frozen from his waist below in ice and has three heads.

Dante wishes to speak to him.

Across the ice Virgil points out a faint object to Dante. Approaching the object, Dante shudders in fear as views the King of Dis, Lucifer.He has wings that are described as bat-like instead of bird-like. He has three faces from which he wept tears mixed with blood, a mockery of the Trinity.

One face is red, mocking Primal Love with hatred. One is yellow, as a parody by Diving Omnipotence with impotence, and one is black, perverting Highest Wisdom with ignorance.

Each of the faces has a mouth that is stuffed with the worst traitors of the world, those who are treacherous against their benefactors. The men endure the worst torture by being chewed on and clawed by Satan’s bat-like wings.

In order to exit Hell, they must climb the back of Satan and into Purgatory.

The travelers finally make their way to the surface where they “came out to see once more the stars” (139).

This is an amazing book, and I highly recommend it to any reader.

I hardly read books on my spare time, and I found that I set aside more time every night to finish this book.

Ehh ... I am sick of these terrible TV programs

Photo illustration by Mike Vickers

Television on a decline with its recent programming choices With such shows as the ‘OC’ and ‘American Idol’, television breaks the mold of being a technological masterpiece to a blade walking, sun baked dirt mound David Ager staff writer

An example of a show that has gone down the tubes is “The Simpson’s.”

Once a flourishing animated comedy, this show has turned into a broWhen the world is in a crisis, we find ourselves wondering about every- ken record of used up satire. The problem here is lack of good writers. thing, but not so much about what we really need to. The USA is filled with Watching the show from its very first seasons and then viewing it topeople, many of whom use the television not for what its true meaning is. day, there is a noticeable difference in the style of comedy on the show.

Some people call it mindless entertainment, but others just don’t watch it.

A true undeniable example of how there is no creative writThe history of TV can be traced back to the early 1950’s when the ing on the neo-TV is reality television. People sit back in their chairs television was a fresh, new tool in a modernization of a new society. and amuse themselves by watching people sing on “American Idol.”

Back then, this new invention showed It’s clear that the great promise for a better era. It was a new show’s producers purway to transfer information to the world. posefully put awful singers Through the invention of the televionto the show. It’s all fake.

TV for me just doesn’t cut the rope, on any These shows put shame sion came the invention of TV shows.

Shows that could entertain us, make given day I am usually stuck in my mind on America as a whole. us laugh and cry. Such shows like “BoThere are many reasons trying to figure out the reason behind the why these shows are so popand “Leave it to Beaver”. nanza” Though these shows entertained people, this was ular. The first is that they heartless hero named TV. the start to a slow decline on a steep hill to shame. are dirt cheap to produce.

Television today is a complete joke.

Let’s take three chicks Stations are filled with sopping wet, with big boobs and make -Lex Williams, senior dirty, slimy prime time pieces of trash. them bungee jump off There are only a few shows that aca cliff. Who wouldn’t tually stand out as being good. want to watch this?

Such shows as “Arrested Development” and “Curb The second reason why reality TV is so popular is that the majority Your Enthusiasm” are the only decent shows on the air. of people watching TV just don’t care what’s on it. They will watch anyAll the others are just cardboard cut out teen dramas. It is thing that will get them through to the next miserable day of their lives. sickening to turn on the TV just to find another heart warmTo see someone else’s life glorified on the screen is the only ray of happiness ing tale of tragedy being replicated onto every TV station. in their unforgiving lives. And who is there to give you more of this? Every TV staIf the ‘OC’ is proclaimed as a good show, the world is truly in a rut. tion around is now featuring at least one reality television show in their line up.

Senior Lex Williams shares some of the same views about TV. “TV for So who truly is at fault for TV’s decline? Well, the true fact of the matter me just doesn’t cut the rope. On any given day I am usually stuck in my is that this was an inevitable occurrence that nobody could stop. The way mind trying to figure out the reason behind the heartless hero named “TV”. America is today with their teenage MTV style and adults being the new The problem with most shows is the lack of creative writing. squares of the 21st century, we can only expect more of the same in the future.

“

”

Students labeled by their tastes in music Teri Chiado photo editor

Happy Tree Friends There are many different types of music in the world. Looking around, you’ll see a lot of people who place a certain genre to people judging the way they dress. They try to match music and clothing.

There are people out there who, regardless of what they wear, listen to many different types of music.

I have had many different criticisms because I listen to all music.

Sometimes someone will look at my clothes and assume I only listen to metal.

For example, I was listening to some jazz with my friend and someone we knew walked up and looked at me and said, “This doesn’t sound like your type of music” It didn’t really bother me because that person doesn’t know me that well and it is instinct for people today to judge by appearance.

Yes, I listen to metal.

I feel I have a metal personality and there’s not much metal I won’t listen to. But with this particular genre, you can get your anger out

and not care; because people don’t mind if you are angry, just because you listen to metal.

Metal lyrics can be about anything, really. But a lot of the stuff I listen to is about things no one likes to talk about. Natural emotions that many people don’t like to face. Such as anger. A lot of people think that because you listen to angry music that you are angry.

Maybe you are, maybe not. Does that matter? If it interests you, it should concern you and only you.

Metal has very talented musicians and not many people realize how hard it really is.

Remember, these people are learning how to play instruments, and some of them are not easy. It is so complex, yet people don’t tend to look at things like that. We want the easy way out. We want simplicity.

We pop in a metal mix and can’t understand what they are saying so we turn it off.

It’s not just about the lyrics, just listen to the music behind the words.

The beauty within the song.

Regardless of metal being my main choice of tunes, many others interest me as well.

Take rap for example. I listen to a lot of rap. A lot of my friends listen to it, so in a way it began to grow on me.

When I am hanging out with certain people, they like certain music. I will

listen to it.

Rap lyrics are a lot of the time about the same things over and over again but in different ways. They rap about drugs, sex, violence and a lot of love.

Although it comes off as pretty cheesy, it’s interesting to know that there are still new ways to sing about the same things.

A lot of rap beats, though, are what make me doubt the existence of much talent.

As a friend once told me, rap beats always consist of “clicks, claps, whistles and bells”.

I never really thought about it like that, but I have noticed it more.

Hence the reason why I didn’t choose rap as my main choice of music.

Another genre I enjoy is country.

Many of the people around me listen to country, and I picked up a habit for it.

Country is the softer yet sassy side of music.

A lot of country singers write songs about losses, patriotism, family and, of course, the country side of things.

Maybe that’s where the name came from?

Country beats are pretty self-explanatory. When you think of the country, you tend to think red neck.

Well, a lot of country singers are red necks, but they are proud of it. Some

will flaunt the fact that they fit into the stereotype. That is a lot of the reason why I like country. They don’t care if they are hicks; they like it. It’s a pride kind of thing.

However, it does not bother me that I have love for all types of music.

I actually enjoy it.

Whether it’s old rock to ska or hip-hop, I will listen to it for the mere sake of it being music. And I am one who plainly appreciates music.

It’s not what you wear that tell everything about you. Don’t confuse the two.

There is no reason for us to try and link the two together; we all have different tastes.

If you like all different types of music, you appreciate it for the sake of having music. I often catch myself listening to whatever reflects the mood I am in, or maybe I just had a song stuck in my head for no apparent reason.

Whatever the reason may be for my eclectic personality, I don’t care.

Who is someone else to criticize you for something you like? It shouldn’t concern them.

Don’t worry about what everyone else is doing or listening to or dressing like. If we worry about ourselves and not everyone else, we may just broaden our horizons a bit and find friends based on the people they are, not what they listen to.

6

features

the Squall

Friday, February 25, 2005

Upcoming

Events

Jon Stewart Opera House “Saturday April 2”

Illustration by Mike Vickers

Star Wars: Republic Commando

“March 1”

Mars Volta: Frances the Mute

“March 1”

1

Black Sabbath: Guitarist Tony Iommi creates beautiful thunder.

2

“March 15”

The Ring Two: In theaters

“March 18”

“Taste of Chaos” Concert @ Cobo Arena

3

Zakk Wylde: The bearded genius of metal.

Matt Gauntlett staff writer

7.) Pantera: “Cemetery Gates”

1.) Black Sabbath: “Black Sabbath” This solo illustrates what a good one should be. If a song builds up like this menacing one does, a flurry of fast runs like Tony Iommi executes compliments it perfectly.

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2.) Frank Zappa: “Black Napkins” The whole song itself is a solo, and it establishes Zappa’s technical prowess within the first minute. Zappa’s playing style is one of a kind and deserves more recognition.

Ozzy’s guitarist: The late Randy Rhoads, an overlooked giant.

3.) Black Label Society: “T.A.Z.” No list would be complete without the incomparable Zakk Wylde.

This solo acoustic piece is flawlessly played, and every dizzying sequence of pentatonic doom is picked clearly and aggressively.

5

Petrucci: The new way to spell perfection.

4.) Ozzy Osbourne: “Flying High Again” This highly melodious solo by Randy Rhoads is on this list simply because of the digit numbing tapping featured toward the end of it. This also proved that Eddie Van Halen wasn’t the only player who could use both hands.

“March 11”

Gran Turismo 4

looked albums ever made, “Machine Gun” stands on its own next to his other legendary works. It also happens to be one of his most expressive, clocking in at over 11 minutes of glorious musicianship.

In modern music, the guitar solo is a lot like the late Rodney Dangerfield. It gets no respect. Sure, every hipster who claims to appreciate music will drop the names of Jimmy Page, Eric Clapton or even David Gilmour. But why? Do they realize that these amazing guitar players are providing the most memorable garnish to the songs they love? Probably not, and they probably don’t even appreciate what a good solo really is.

Of course, the criteria for a good solo is somewhat broad. Rather than just providing classic solos, this list is comprised of the underrated, the overlooked and the over-the-top.

A solo needs to be the aspect of the song that makes people remember it, and each of the following achieve that.

Original Style: Zappa’s playing is way ahead of its time.

The Incredibles on Video/DVD

Gauntlett introduces his 20 favorite guitar solos of all time

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5.) Dream Theater: “Under A Glass Moon”

Hendrix: Always an obvious choice.

John Pettruci explores practically every facet of music in this solo and does so more slickly and cleanly than most other guitarists. Every note of this solo is absolutely perfect.

“February 2”

6.) Jimi Hendrix: “Machine Gun” Featured on one of the most over-

The late, great Dimebag Darrell really made a name for himself with this one. Rather than following the two handed tapping trend of the 80’s, Dime replaced it with sweeping runs and screeching whammy bar bends.

8.) Stevie Ray Vaughn: “Little Wing” While it is a cover, it’s fair to say that SRV’s effortless blues playing easily puts Hendrix’s already great version to shame.

9.) Racer X: “Viking Kong” Without a doubt, this is the fastest solo to grace this list. Paul Gilbert establishes his godlike skills with the greatest of ease, and he proves that even the best of guitarists should bow down to his ridiculous talent.

10.) Extreme: “Get The Funk Out” This is a case where the song just flat out sucks, but the solo makes the mind numbing stupidity of the rest of the song worth it. Nuno Bettencourt is an overlooked shredder, and the tasteful yet over-the-top playing makes it hard to see why.

11.) Guns N Roses: “November Rain” “November Rain” is a classic example of how a solo can show emotion. The song by itself is already a mood setter, but Slash’s laid back bluesy tone gives it incredible warmth.

12.) Children of Bodom: “ Trashed, Lost and Strung-Out” The complete 80’s shred vibe is resurrected by CoB guitarist Alexi Laiho to full effect. With this alone Laiho makes himself a great candidate for a future guitar hero.

13.) Liquid Tension Experiment: “Acid Rain” The fleet-fingered work of John Petrucci deserves more than one spot on any list. Quite frankly the entire song is amazing as Petrucci brings even the best of guitarists hopes down a peg or two.

14.) Lamb of God: “Ashes Of The Wake” These recent metal revisits not only play a solo for each guitarist, they also get thrash legends Alex Skolnick (ex-Testament) and Chris Poland (ex-Megadeth) to throw down their best chops. The solo by Chris

Poland and LOG guitarist Mark Morton deserve a listen.

15.) Led Zeppelin: “Whole Lotta Love” Though not the cleanest of players, Jimmy Page lays down a short and to the point solo that proves to be perfect for the song.

16.) Steve Vai: “Tender Surrender” Known for being completely over the top, Vai seems more controlled and reserved on this lengthy, expressive display of guitar mastery.

17.) Shadows Fall: “Montauk” Guitarist Jon Donais may borrow heavily from Zakk Wylde’s book of tricks, but his fluid-like playing is surprisingly competent. Once he kicks in the wah pedal, the solo just catches fire.

18.) Pink Floyd: “Dogs” Another overlooked gem, “Dogs” is a hugely emotional solo that spreads through the majority of the 17 minute song. David Gilmour is, without a doubt, the master of expression by means of guitar, and this song is a key example.

19.) Van Halen: “Hot For Teacher” One of the greatest guitarists of the last 30 years, EVH plays like no other human. There is no one specific solo that can do the man justice, but this song isn’t a bad place to start.

20.) Queens of the Stone Age: “No One Knows” Now, a solo doesn’t need to be overwhelmingly fast or chock full of notes to be included on the list. “No One Knows” is a solo that is catchy and one with such a peculiar fuzzed out guitar tone that it’s undeniable to the listener.

Other noteworthy solos: • Yngwie Malmsteen: “Black Star” • Joe Satriani : “Surfing With The Alien” • AC/DC: “Back In Black” • Metallica: “Disposable Heroes” • Iron Maiden: “Rime Of The Ancient Mariner” • Judas Priest: “Beyond The Realms Of Death” • Ozzy Osbourne: “Over The Mountain” • Jeff Beck: “She’s A Woman”

An unhappy Valentine’s Day story Finding Neverland on Video/DVD

Jonathan Williamson staff writer

“March 22”

Gunner Palace in theaters

“March 4”

Information Complied

by Christina Fields

Illustration by Jared Myers

Valentines Day. A day for expressing the undying love for your significant other. A day where Cupid takes over and harpoons lonely students with his blazing arrows of love.

To any normal student, this day warms the heart, but this day of joy is not so joyous for one junior. To tell this sad story in full we need to take ourselves back four years.

The year was 2001, and two love struck kids were about to share their first Valentine’s Day together. That’s when tragedy struck. This time of year is always hard for the male species wondering what to do, what to give, what to say and our hero was no exception. How could he express his love for her?

How could he express what she wanted to hear without compromising his own position too much?

Wracking his mind, he settled on a traditional answer with his own

creative twist. He would buy her a rose and some choice chocolates and place them stealthily in her locker.

It was perfect. The next day when she opened her locker and found her fantastic surprise, her heart would leap, and she would be forever his.

But the poor dame did not fall perfectly into his love trap. Instead she tragically fell ill.

She was bed ridden, and he could not even go to her side to comfort her in her pain. The flowers and chocolate lay forgotten in her locker.

Having missed Valentine’s Day, she never got them. In her ill state a dreadful fever took the poor lass.

Deliriously she called up the poor man and expressed her lack of desire to continue their relationship.

We must find it in our hearts to forgive the girl, for in her state no decision could have been the right one.

The young man was heartbroken, but as most kids do in seventh grade, he got over it in a matter of minutes and started to play the rest of the field.

Just when it seems thing could get no worse they hit rock bottom. Re-

turning to school, the girl opened her locker only to find the lonely shriveled rose occupied by the pack of delicious chocolate.

She was touched. As she lifted the gifts from their spot a single tear fell from her eye and clutching the presents to her bosom she knew she had made a mistake.

But it was too late. No apology could be given, and none would have been received. It was the end of those two.

Nevermore would they walk the halls of Mill Creek hand in hand with smiles shining from their cheerful faces.

Like so many good things their relationship was over. They went their own ways. But they each have their memories, memories that are remembered as the cool air of February whips at their faces and the pink paper hearts of Valentine’s Day start to be exchanged.

Sad though this story is, it has brought a lot of wisdom to both parties and a lesson lived is a lesson learned.

Q: What is your favorite school activity that you do?

A: Running because of the guys on the team and how much fun they are.

a little more SQUALL

Charles Wolcott, junior

B

Section

Arts festival recognizes classical music Molly Brewster morale manager

CHARLES IN CHARGE

Photo Illustration by: Mike Vickers

T

he daily toils of school, parents’ anger and extracurricular activities can take its toll on teenagers across the nation. The stress students experience every day is more than parents give them credit for, as all students know. Dexter junior Charles “Chuck Diesel” Wolcott takes all this in stride with a wide grin upon his face.

Seth Porinsky staff writer

Not only does junior Charles Wolcott have a rigorous schedule, he also has to keep up his endurance for cross country and track, participate actively in his youth group and Boy Scout troop and practice his French horn for the band.

“Cross country is a very work-orientated sport,” coach Jamie Dudash said. “Charles does a lot of activities that are work oriented, it’s how he earned his title ‘Chuck Diesel.’ If you think about a diesel engine, they never stop, and that really personifies Charles well.”

In spite of his busy schedule, Wolcott maintains a 3.98 GPA, helped the Dexter Harriers to their third consecutive state title this past fall and competes regularly in the Dexter band’s annual solo and ensemble festival, where professors from local colleges grade students on pieces they spend hours to prepare.

“We are graded from a 1-4 scale, with a one being the best,” Wolcott said. “In my high school career, I have eight ones and one two.”

He adds reluctantly that it does take up a lot of time, but said, “It just adds another perspective to school.”

Charles’ twin sister Caroline also participates annually in solo and ensemble, playing the violin.

Because of their two different instruments, they aren’t able to compete together because there aren’t very many pieces written for a french horn and violin.

If there were pieces written for

the two, though, would he work with his sister on one?

“I’d consider it,” he said with a smile.

Charles shares another activity with a sibling: Boy Scouts. His older brother, Thane, was also in his troop until he graduated last year.

“One time we were out camping, and I started sleepwalking in the middle of the night,” Charles said. “I got out of my tent and later tried to find it. I walked into the wrong one and finally resolved to sleep outside in the cold. After awhile, I managed to find my brother Thane’s tent and told him what happened. He loaned me his sleeping bag and slept without it for the night.”

Balancing all of these activities is not always easy, Charles admits.

“A lot of nights I will have events conflict,” he said. “I’ll have a bunch of homework to do, have to practice my instrument and then go to Boy Scouts. Usually what happens is it ends up with less time for me to play Halo 2 with my friends.”

Yet Charles thinks all of these activities he juggles will help to condition him for college life and his future. Charles plans to go to either the University of Michigan or an out of state college and major in Architecture.

“I’ve signed up for Mr. Dagg’s architecture class next year,” he said. “but I haven’t made any final decisions about my future.”

Dudash knows that Charles will succeed with whatever he does due to his outstanding work ethic.

He said, “It’s hard not to praise someone that can maintain a 4.0 and still manages to excel in every aspect of life.”

She looked around the room unable to recognize a single person, yet sophomore Katie VanDusen was undaunted by her task. She knew when she accepted the role of classical music representative on the curatorial board for Breaking Curfew, a performing arts festival, it would be hard work. Especially since this is the first year classical music will be featured in the festival.

“Breaking Curfew is a music festival put on by the University Musical Society where students aren’t only given the opportunity to perform, but also the chance to run the entire show,” VanDusen said.

“Spoken word, dance and about every time of music imaginable are performed. I am on the board to make sure classical music gets fair representation.”

As a talented violinist, VanDusen was suggested for the position by the director of the Ann Arbor Youth Symphony, where she holds the position of concert master.

“As soon as he mentioned it, I knew it was something I wanted to be a part of,” she said. “It sounded like a great opportunity.”

As for it being the first year classical music will be represented, VanDusen said she is confident she will get her opinions heard. “The first few meetings I kind of just sat in the corner and observed how things go,” she said. “It was a little intimidating because I am the only person from Dexter on the board, but I am a pretty outgoing, opinionated person, so I will make sure people hear what I have to say.”

Although she doesn’t yet know many of the other board members, she said that is one of the aspects that excites her most about participating with Breaking Curfew. “I am excited to meet all the other board members and to learn about their musical interest,” VanDusen said.

“Meeting other people and seeing all our hard work pay off with the final performance in April will be the highlights of the whole experience.”

With VanDusen’s already busy after school schedule as a member of the Dexter Orchestra, Ann Arbor Youth Symphony, Michigan Youth Orchestra and Blue Lake International, she is a little nervous for all the hard work Breaking Curfew will take as show time nears.

“Right now we are just in very initial stages, discussing what types of acts we want, and how the audition process will go,” she said. “We just meet twice a month now, but things will get very stressful the closer we get to the show. I have been a little worried about the time commitment ever since I agreed to

be on the board. But I know I can handle it.”

As for the most daunting task of actually putting on the show, VanDusen said it will be advertising and marketing.

“We have to sell out the Power Center to break even,” she said.

“That’s 1,200 seats. So if all of the Dexter High School comes we will be set.”

She anticipates a large Dexter representation as she hopes the Ska band featured will be Dexter’s own Skapocalypse.

“When we were discussing potential Ska bands, Skapocalypse was mentioned quite a few times,” VanDusen said. “Ska is pretty popular, especially at Pioneer, but a lot of those bands are in disagreements right now, which gives us on the board the idea that they might be difficult to work with. Skapocalypse seem like they are really easy going.”

VanDusen doesn’t have to worry about judging Skapocalypse audition because she only has real influence over the classical genre, although she admits she would be partial to her hometown.

“I know I shouldn’t say this, but I really don’t know all that much about Skapocalypse besides that they are good,” she said. “At one of the curatorial meetings someone suggested I talk to a member of the band since Breaking Curfew isn’t that well know yet since this is only the second year.”

VanDusen spoke with Skapocalypse member junior Mike Spiegel the day after the meeting. “I was excited to try to get more people from Dexter involved,” she said.

Spiegel, although unaware of what Breaking Curfew was, agreed that his band would participate. “We pretty much take what we can get,” he said.

“A gig is a gig.”

The fact that Breaking Curfew takes place at the Power Center had Spiegel even more excited. “Playing for as big a crowd as the Power Center can hold will definitely be an excellent opportunity for us,” he said.

“It is definitely doesn’t compare with anything we have done before.”

He is confident that no matter what competition the auditions bring, Skapocalypse has a good chance of performing at Breaking Curfew.

“We’re a pretty talented group, that have been playing together for a while,” Spiegel said. “We continue to grow as musicians and our audience can see that.”

VanDusen is excited to see more Dexter representation at Breaking Curfew this year and in years to come.

“I am looking forward to a great learning experience,” she said. “It’s great that not only the board will see all our hard work pay off but everyone who comes to see the show too.”

Senior chooses not to attend college Sarah Craft editor in chief

“Why if it isn’t the Ganzs.” A woman who was standing in the grocery check out line turned around and happily looked at senior Sherlyan Ganz and her mother.

Stunned to see her sixth grade best friend who transferred schools, Ganz said she and her former best friend exchanged polite and somewhat awkward conversation.

Finally the question came.

“So,” Ganz’s former friend said, “have you decided what college you’re going to?”

“I’m not going to college.”

Somewhat shocked, and not knowing exactly what to say, Ganz said her friend paused and said, “Oh. Well, that’s OK.” “I was so mad about that,” Ganz said. “I felt like she was giving me permission not to go to college. I’m not looking for anyone’s approval.

I can go to college or not, I can do whatever I want.”

Although Ganz is confident about not going to school in the fall, her father has contrasting views.

“My dad was really unhappy,” she said. “Some of my family members have been setting aside money for college since I was a baby. Since a lot of that money can only be used for education, I’m planning on giving it to my sister, who, at this point is planning on going to school after she graduates. That way the money isn’t going to waste, and she’ll have an

easier time with money.”

Instead of attending college, Ganz said she plans to spend most of her time working. Currently Ganz is working at Dexter Cleaners, and she said she intends to pick up a second job at the Dexter Pharmacy. In the future, though, she hopes to become a writer.

“I love to write personal narratives,” she said. “A lot of advice has been given to me that comes from other people’s experiences. I want to be that person too.”

According to counselor Gerry Holmes, about 10 percent of students follow the same path as Ganz by not attending college after graduation.

“Within that group, there could be kids going into the military, kids doing apprenticeships, and some just go straight into the work force, like doing construction work or something,” she said. “What I worry about is that 10 percent is feeling like they’re not doing the right thing because they’re in the minority.”

Being a member of the minority, Ganz said she has felt like people look down on her because of her decision of not attending college.

“I do think I’ve lost some respect from people because I’m not going to college,” she said. “I don’t know, I guess they have the right to feel that way, but I’ve been trying to not let it get to me. I’m fine knowing that I’ll never have a brand new car, a spacious dorm room or a university degree with my name on it. It’s everyone else that can’t accept it.”

8

the Squall

Opinions

THE ALL

Friday, February 25, 2005

SQUALL CALL

THE SQUALL STAFF EDITOR-IN-CHIEF: Sarah Craft

Para-educators deserve health benefits

MANAGING EDITOR: Michelle Svetkoff

EDITORS FEATURES: Jenny Heldt ENTERTAINMENT: Samantha Harris NEWS: Kyle Muse OPINIONS: Thomas Leonard PHOTO: Brandon Mayotte and Teri Chiado SPORTS: Lee Hoggard DESIGN: Mike Vickers COPY: Hillary McCown

When para-educator Sandy Klein left the high school a few months ago, many students wondered why. The answer? She needed health benefits, and para-educators are the only employees in the district who don’t receive health benefits.

Some students might ask why they deserve health benefits when much of their time is spent harassing us? Well, when you think about it, para-educators do a lot. They are constantly on their feet delivering passes, watching over all three lunches and

MANAGERS

standing outside in the morning to greet us while they freeze.

Not to mention the one-on-one mentoring many of the

BUSINESS: Stephanie Rushlow MORALE: Raleigh Holmes and Molly Brewster PHOTO: Christina Field and Kendall Goode CIRCULATION: Jennifer Allen and Sara Newell

para-educators do with some of the underprivileged students.

Many students in the school are followed by a para-educator from class to class who assist them with everything from taking notes to studying for tests.

Every day para-educators deal with 1100 students in be-

STAFF WRITERS

tween passing time and lunch and try to keep them in order.

It’s probably one of the hardest jobs to do in the district that

David Ager TJ LaRosa Daniel Monson Seth Porinsky Jonathan Williamson Robert Kuzon Matt Gauntlett

very few teachers have the patience for, and yet they still don’t get all of the same benefits as teachers. Especially benefits as important as health.

The district says the para-educators were the last employees to join a union and have never had health benefits. They say because of budget trouble, they can’t afford to start giving them benefits now.

AD DESIGNER: Eric Wilkinson CARTOONIST: Jared Myers

It’s interesting though, earlier this year the district found $1.5 million, but somehow it’s still not enough to give employ-

ADVISER: Rod Satterthwaite

ees health benefits.

Since there was no way she could get benefits, Klein left to become a janitor at Mill Creek and is enjoying her new health

POLICY:

benefits. And we don’t blame her for leaving. It must have been

The Squall is distributed monthly to 1,083 students and reaches an estimated 4,332 people with each issue. The Squall is printed by The Owosso Argus in Owosso, MI and is produced by the third hour newspaper class.

difficult for her to worry about getting injured and wondering how she would pay for it.

Para-educators have important jobs and are an integral part of our district. They should receive health care benefits like all other district employees do. This district should dip into its $1.5 million of “found” money and treat them with the respect they deserve.

Illustration by Jared Myers

Letters To The Editor ‘Appropriate dressing styles hung out to dry’ article is too offensive Dear Editor, I am writing to express my acute concern over the article, “Appropriate dressing styles hung out to dry: Scandalous styles scar student’s scenery in school hallways.”

I was deeply saddened to read the comments expressed about members of our student body. Students should feel comfortable and safe both academically and socially here at Dexter High School.

There are enough external pressures for our students to face each day. Why would we want to create more animosity to contend with by being tough on one another?

Instead, isn’t our goal to positively encourage and support growth towards adulthood as we venture through our years together at Dexter High School?

Autumn Campbell Art teacher

Schultz apologizes for ‘Crib’ article Dear Editor, This is my formal apology to my peers and other readers of the school newspaper. After reading the article about my house in The Squall, I realized what a horrible mistake I had made.

I was extremely excited when I was first asked to have my house in a “Cribs” type article, but I should’ve used my better judgment to stop and consider the proposition before committing myself.

I was first told that the article would resemble that of MTV’s show Cribs, I

assumed that the article would feature multiple houses across the Dexter area and compare and contrast how different students live.

This assumption was my own fault and after I was told the article would be based completely and solely on my house it was too late for me to decline. I am not blaming the writer of the article in any way for my own mistake.

When I agreed to the article, I knew that I was allowing my house to be publicly viewed. However it was not my intention to broadcast my house and expose some lavish mansion that I am living in, because I am not.

My house is just like anyone else’s house. It has a family that lives in it, it has neighbors, and it has its memories.

This is what makes a house a home.

The thing that I should’ve realized is that not everyone in Dexter cares what goes on in your house, let alone what architectural design you have.

They don’t care if you hit golf balls in your backyard or play tag with your little

brother in your backyard. What people do care about is what kind of person you are.

Your friends are the people that truly know who you are, and my friends know that I am not the type of person to brag or boast about my house. I am very modest when talked to and I never meant to come across as a spoiled brat who wanted to exploit herself.

I am truly sorry if I wasted five minutes of your life for reading about what car I drive and how I throw my laundry basket out my door and into the laundry room I am sorry for contributing to a waste of paper space in The Squall; it could’ve been more efficiently used if it was not my house that was featured.

I hope that you will forgive me for my blinded mistake and give The Squall and the writer of the article another chance after this house mishap.

TALK BACK:

The Squall is an open forum for student expression. It accepts letters to the editor from any and all concerned parties. The Squall reserves the right to screen and/or edit any and all letters for inappropriate content and length. All letters must be signed. Requests to remain anonymous will be considered by the editorial board.

ADVERTISING:

Requests for advertisements can be called into the Business Manager at 424-4240 x7407. Ads must be called in at least two weeks prior to the issue’s publication, which is at the end of each month.

E-MAIL letters@thesquall.com WEB SITE www.thesquall.com

Sincerely, Kelsey Schultz, sophomore

Dreads in the hall Do you think para-educators should have health benefits?

Austin Shapiro, freshman

Katie Fricke, sophomore

Mark Wisnieski, senior

Brian Baird, math teacher

“If they work here full time they should because everyone else in the school that works full time does.”

“Yes, because they seem like they do a lot. Itʼs unfair that janitors, secretaries, etc. get the benefits and (para-educators) donʼt.”

“No, because I donʼt think their jobs are that demanding enough that they need benefits.”

“Yes, because they are a vital part of the schools staff, so they should be treated as such.”

Claire Coffey, junior “Yes, I guess it seems unfair that janitors do and (para-educators) donʼt.”

Friday, February 25, 2005

the Squall

opinions

Parking pass refund brings joy to students )-(AX0R 1337

Brandon Mayotte photo editor

Many students were excited about receiving a $25 refund on parking passes earlier this month.

But instead of spending my money on gas like the rest of you, I used my refund to purchase something extraordinary, something way cooler than any of you could imagine.

I bought 25,000 pennies at the

bank.

Now 25,000 pennies are heavy, so I needed to spend them quickly.

First on my list of things to do was go to a wishing well.

Do you have any idea how many wishes I could make?

Thirty-seven actually.

Then I ran out of ideas.

Next on my list of awesomeness was to buy a movie ticket at Quality 16 all in pennies for $7.50.

Not only did this piss off the guy

who had to count my pennies, but also the line of people out the door behind me. Yeah, I think pretty much everyone in the theater hated me.

I didn’t go to the movie though.

There was no time.

I had to keep being awesome.

I then took a ride on Sandy, the horse at Meijer, for hours.

That was really fun. There was a long line of sad little kids behind me, but I didn’t care, I had to spend my pennies.

Her rough riding abilities made for an intense experience.

And good thing she only cost a

penny per ride.

That only cost me 63 cents. Before leaving Meijer I bought Super Glue for $1.99 and glued 50 pennies to the bottom of my shoes.

I then proceeded to tap dance around the building. Meijer shoppers loved the free entertainment.

Going to school the next day was the best.

I never thought throwing pennies at kids could be so fun.

Especially at the faces of innocent kids I have never met.

After a dollar of stress relief, I was running low on pennies and not sure

what to do.

I knew I had to restock, and I knew the perfect place; gas stations.

The “Take a penny leave a penny” case would be sure to help me with my adventure of awesomeness.

I like to think of myself as a charitable person.

So I laid out 200 pennies heads up in downtown Ann Arbor to spread the good luck to people everywhere.

As the day was winding down, I knew I couldn’t use all my pennies.

I went to the top of a parking garage in Ann Arbor and said farewell to my bag of pennies.

9

As a small tear left my eyes, I dropped my bag and watched as they plummeted towards the concrete below.

As pennies reigned havoc onto the sidewalks below, kids fell in pain and old people shook their fists.

Both of these things made me smile.

As I drove home, I knew my day was well spent, full of fun and excitement.

The $25 I got back from the parking pass fee was, by far, the best $25 dollars I have ever spent.

Thank you Dexter High School.

Student pirates music with no reservations Ryan says downloading music hurts no one Kendall Goode photo manager

Photo by Mike Vickers

Don’t miss the bus: After the bell rings at the end of the day, students rush out to the bus stop to catch a ride home. According to sophomore Lauren Spears, the busses are already full. If students all rode the bus on the same day, the busses wouldn’t have enough room to take every student to school.

Students do school system a favor and get charged as a thank you To get rid of the parking fee, ride the bus

Mike Vickers design editor

Public schools are required by law to provide proper transportation for everyone attending their school.

To abide by the law, schools started using school busses to transport students from their home to school and back again.

The problem is, though, that there isn’t enough space on each bus to take every kid to school.

This problem is solved by the fact that students who own cars drive to school.

However, the school then charges students, who are actually solving the districts problem, money to park in the parking lot.

This is unfair and shouldn’t be tolerated.

The Michael People who haven’t bought parking passes won’t have to.

People who have bought parking passes will get their money back.

It’s a fail proof idea, as long as the students can come together as one untied whole.

Ride the bus.

If every student rode the bus on the same day, the school busses wouldn’t have nearly enough room to hold all of the students.

The school would then be breaking the law for not providing transportation.

The busses at this point are too full to even take one student who doesn’t usually ride.

It’s at the point where there are three students in each seat. The recommended amount of adult-sized passengers for the busses is two.

But according to sophomore Lauren Spears, the busses are fuller than that.

“There are two and sometimes three people to every seat,” Spears said.

“I don’t like it at all. I just want to get off the bus because all of the little

kids scream and stuff.

“It’s so annoying and they’re just all around you.”

Spears said as soon as she turns 16, she’s definitely going to start driving to school and saving the school money.

“I don’t like riding the bus but I have to,” she said. “I can’t wait until I can drive so I wont have to ride again.”

The student body of Dexter has always been a very well behaved group of people.

As a group, we have never argued with what is asked of us from administrators.

We meet challenges.

We have always had a positive effect on the community.

This is an unfair taxation to put on students.

The parking lot is becoming a unsafe place to leave vehicles.

There have been many incidences of things being stolen from cars, even cars being stolen themselves.

The fee brings little back to the students that pay it.

Why pay it at all?

Everyone in the school needs to ride the bus on the same day to make our point clear.

A simple way to get rid of the parking pass fee ...

Ride the bus.

Students are saving the school money by driving to school, the district doesn’t have to pay for extra busses.

If everyone rides the bus on the same day, there won’t be enough space to transport everyone to school.

Junior Spencer Ryan is a music pirate who’s not afraid of getting caught. not “I’m afraid because there are other people who are magnitudes worse than I am,” he said.

Ryan said he has been pirating music since the seventh grade, and he doesn’t see any problem with it.

Being one of the users of the pioneer program Napster, he’s adapted over the years as new programs have come out.

B e s i d e s downloading music, Ryan also said he copies music from CDs onto his computer.

“When someone buys a CD, they purchase a license to the songs on that disc,” Ryan said.

He then went on to explain how its unfair to limit someone’s use of a product they have purchased.

“When someone uses a pay program like iTunes,” he said.

“There are more restrictions on the product.

The quality of a downloaded song from a website is much less than what one would get from a CD.” Although many believe downloading music to be a great use of the Internet, others including the

Thoughts of an emo kid corporations are filing lawsuits against creators of programs and users of these programs because they believe downloading the music takes away from their deserved profits.

Ryan, however, argues that the money should go to the artist and not the corporation.

“If I could get a digital copy off the artist’s web site, then I would do that and just send them $10,” he said.

Part of the reason he believes people who download harm the artist is because musicians make most of their money from the touring they do and not with record sales.

“Ninty-nine percent of the money goes to whatever record company, which is unfair to the artists,” Ryan said.

Besides saying that the artists deserve the money, not the record companies, Ryan also said there’s more to buying a CD than just having a shiny piece of plastic.

“When you buy something like a DVD or a CD you’re really buying a license for it,” he said. “It’s wrong to sell the product you have to others, but you have a right to do whatever you want with the data on the disc.”

Even though Ryan believes that music downloading hurts no one, Phyllis Risdon, district Information Systems Support Technician, disagrees.

“You’re cheating the composer out of their money,” Risdon said.

Working for the school, she also believes strongly about using school owned equipment to download music.

“Using the computers to download music is like using them to look at inappropriate web sites,” she said. “It’s not what the computers are there for.”

Online dating: hope for those with few other alternatives )-(AX0R 1337

TJ LaRosa staff writer

My computers are sex machines.

All five of them, as well as the Xbox.

These, to me, as well as many others, are portals to an online dating world.

Sure, some may think it’s weird, but once you get into it, it’s really cool.

A lot of people think online relationships are for really desperate people.

No. Look at me. I’m like the most popular guy in the school. Gosh.

Online relationships rock.

Don’t knock it ‘‘until you’ve tried it, na’ mean?

In online dating, you can be as big of a player as you so desire.

You can have as many girlfriends

as you have P2P (peer-to-peer) components.

Problems could arise, say, if you’re on MSN messenger, talking to significant other #1, and she says: “Make your name say that you love me.” Then your other significant others sees this and flips out.

Rule #1: Maintain only one significant other per messenging service.

With a high-speed Internet connection, you can be a modern age Cassanova, entagling your partner in an ecstatic array of delight, all from the text you enter.

Another pro: you don’t have to be you in an Internet relationship.

Google will help you to find the perfect phrase to get to her/his heart.

Observe:

sugarkises 39: hey TJ, feeling better today? asoral24: Just thinking of thee transforms the pains in my stomach into the light, sensual touch of butterflies’ wings. sugarkises 39: like omg that was amazing. ur the love of my life.

This above example of smoothness was from my own mind, but this is what you could come up with via the help of search engines.

Rule #2: Be smooth.

Once you land a relationship, immediately begin to talk about yourself, but not in an overconfident way.

For example, if you have a guitar, and even if you’re really bad at it, say something like this: asoral24: Ow, my fingers really hurt.

CHSCCrunr06: why? asoral24: well, my love, not only

was I strumming rich, deep tunes on my acoustic guitar, I was flowing out my inner feelings on paper.

CHSCCrunr06: you play guitar?!?! that’s uber hott.

Maybe even fake play a song about her on your webcam. That will score you some points right there.

If you don’t play the guitar, you are at a loss with girls.

Something everyone can use is the lead singer of the band role: asoral24: I have to run real fast, my band is doing a concert.

ChItLeTs76512: ur in a band? lol so sexy. what do u play? asoral24: I sing words that come straight from my heart, words that come to my mind simultaneously with your gentle tone.

ChItLeTs76512: OMG i wanna do you.

Now she thinks you’re John Mayer. Nice work, junior.

Now go clean your room like your mom said, which is the real reason

you had to go.

Rule#3: Explore your potential A common misconception is that emotion cannot be transmitted through wires.

I have beaten this false claim worse than Rodney King.

You can’t be the happy person all the time, because that’s just not how relationships work.

A good way to kickstart some attention is using a “breakup” scenario.

Internet folk love the rebounds.

It’s weird but true. xFox Gurlx 11256: yea, sure im interested in you. but i just dont get why youre so upset tonight. asoral24: well my girlfriend and I just broke up yesterday, she moved to L.A. for this modelling gig, and she wanted me to come with her.

I told her my heart lies in Dexter, and that, I think I might have found a true love. xFox Gurlx 11256: aww how

sad :_( who is your true love? asoral24: my true love is none other than you...

At this point, while you’re stuffing your face with Cheeto’s, she is taking a long sigh of love that brings her back to her childhood days of puppy love crushes.

If you really want to be the Romeo of the router, you need to have a playbook of emotion implements.

Rule #4: Use emotion to your advantage So now you know how to get and maintain an online relationship.

Remember, these are just the basics. The rest is up to you.

The most important part of the online relationship is that you use as much of your own creativity as possible.

And when you run out of creativity, just remember, that’s exactly what the Internet is for.

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the Squall

sports

Friday, February 25, 2005

Volleyball players’ ineligibility causes problems Sarah Craft editor in chief

Photo by Sarah Craft

Football for life: Seniors Craig Baldus, Travis Bourdon and Dave Muchmore sign letters of Intent to play football for Saginaw Valley State University and Olivet College on Feb. 2. All three players have played football since seventh grade and played varsity football since 11th grade.

Football players sign Letters of Intent Sarah Craft editor in chief

“I want to welcome everyone here today,” football coach Tom Barberi said to a small group of parents, friends and siblings gathered in the high school library on Feb. 2.

“Today is a very special day ... We have three outstanding players that will be attending college (on a football scholarship),” he said.

A small, yet excited applause emerged from the audience, and seniors Craig Baldus, Travis Bourdon and Dave Muchmore picked up pens to sign their Letter of Intent.

“What’s the time, coach?” Bourdon said looking up from the contract.

Barberi glanced at his wristwatch and stared back at Bourdon.

“The time is exactly 9:10,” he said.

The boys dropped their pens on the table, and it was done.

As of 9:10 a.m., Bourdon was committed to play college football for Division Two school Saginaw Valley State University.

Baldus and Muchmore were

bound to Division Three school Oliv- he’ll do great.” et College.

And Muchmore won’t have to go “I just wanna play college foot- to college alone, Baldus is attending ball,” Muchmore said as he sat at a the same college with him. small table heavily decorated with To ensure their success in college a hat, flag and pamphlets from the football, Baldus and Muchmore said boys’ colleges. they’re doing their “I wanna play best to prepare for football at the next the fall. level.”

Today is a very spe- “I’m just trying Muchmore’s fato stay in shape, cial day...We have working out,” Balther, Bob, attended the ceremony with three outstanding dus said. his wife, Tina.

Since Bourplayers that will be don will be playHe said he is very pleased with his Division Two attending college on ing son’s accomplishfootball, he might a football scholar- have the most to ments in sports and in school. prepare for, but ship.

“We always knew he said he isn’t Dave’s athletic abilworried. ities came pretty -Tom Barberi, football “I got to meet easily for him,” Bob some of the playcoach said. ers on the team thought “We and they all it would be great if he got to go to seemed like a bunch of nice guys,” he school and play sports,” he said. said.

“The number one concern was “I’m actually not that worried getting him into a good college and it about anything. I need to get bigger, was just a huge bonus that he’s going but I’ll be fine. I’ve been working out to be able to play football. He’s going a lot and it’ll be fine. I was born to to a good institution, and we’re sure play football.”

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While most of the varsity volleyball team does their warm up bumps, sets and spikes for a game, three players sit in the stands and watch their teammates play because they are ineligible to play due to their grades.

“Right now the team has a lot of eligibility problems,” senior captain Stephanie McCartt said. “It’s really hard because three girls are out, and we’re having to put different kids in to play.”

And according to athletic director John Robinson, eligibility has always been somewhat of a problem in every sport.

“I’m sure every school has their problems with eligibility,” Robinson said. “I don’t think that ours are necessarily any better or any worse, but I don’t know for sure since I don’t really talk to other schools about that. Every marking period, though, there are always some eligibility problems we have to deal with.”

Robinson said a student is eligible to play in a sport as long as the student has at least a 2.0 It’s really grade point average, and they hard because aren’t failing any classes.

“There’s also requirements three girls are not necessarily academic reout, and we’re lated,” he said. “The Michigan Athletic Association has certain having to put requirements like the student different kids has to live within the district area, they have to be enrolled in in to play ... It the school, pretty typical stuff like that.” sucks, but we For specific requirements, have to deal Robinson said all of the information is in the student handwith it. book. However, Robinson said those conditions may change in -Stephanie McCartt, Senior future years.

“I think you can always improve on the way you word things, the way you carry everything out,” he said. “We want to make sure it is sounding like we’re trying to encourage kids to stay eligible and to do well in school because that is what we really want.”

Since the high school has been following the current requirements listed in the student handbook for the entire year, Robinson said there can’t be any changes until the next school year.

McCartt said one student on the volleyball team who isn’t eligible disagreed with the process, so her parents filed an appeal to let her play.

But Robinson said that although anyone can make an appeal, if they don’t meet the eligibility conditions, he said the appeal is rarely granted.

“The rules are pretty straightforward, and if a student doesn’t pass in school, they can’t play until the new marking period,” he said. “That’s what the rule is, and even though everyone has a right to appeal, rarely anything comes from it.”

For the time being, McCartt said the ineligible players sit on the sidelines and cheer the team on because it’s the only thing they can do.

“We’re just trying to deal with what we have right now,” she said. “I don’t think they can come back until the last game. It sucks, but we have to deal with it.”

Photo by Sarah Craft

Like a father: Football coach Tom Barberi claps as three of his star players sign college letters of intent, Barbieri said his players will have no problem succeeding at the college level.

Wrestler hurts knee early in season, tries to recover from surgery Early in the season junior Jim Powers hurt his knee leaving him out for the rest of the season Stephanie Rushlow ad manager

The bell to end class rang, and students emerged like conditioned rats from their classrooms. By this point, the halls were filled with students racing to their next class, but not junior Jim Powers.

After tearing his meniscus and the medial collateral ligament (MCL) at a wrestling meet, Powers went to have his knee looked at by a doctor. Upon his visit, Powers discovered he had a backers cyst and needed surgery very soon.

“It was the first period against a kid from Reading,” Powers said. “My knee started to feel weird, but I didn’t stop wrestling. I finished the match, and the best part was that I won.”

After having a brace on his knee for two weeks, Powers was ready for

surgery. the long run,” he said.

“The worst part about the surgery “And I plan to be back next was the IV,” he said. “My dad told year and go to some camps over me right before they put it in that I the summer to catch up on what I couldn’t bend my arm with it in be- have missed.”

According to Powers, there was cause it would pierce the back of my no good part about the surgery elbow.”

I was trying to keep my arm so itself and going to therapy wasn’t straight, and I was freaking out. It any better.

“Therapy has been the biggest turns out they had taken the needle struggle for me because it hurts, out and put in this plastic thing.”

After Powers had surgery, he said and it forces the muscles in my knee to work,” he he laid in bed said. for five days Until his watching movmuscles do start ies and throwI knew that to work, Powers a dart ing said he’s going to through a ring having the have to get used someone hung surgery now to a different way from the ceilof life. ing for him. would be “You can’t do “It was rebetter for my as much because ally boring you have a huge laying there, knee in the brace on your but the doctors long run. knee, and going said it would to school is a lot be about four harder then it months until it used to be.” gets better,” he Although walksaid. ing with crutches “I was realunder his arms ly upset when I found out how bad the muscles really can be tiring, Powers likes some of the benefits. were.”

“It’s funny because when I walk Being out for the remaining of the wrestling season has been discourag- down the hallway everyone stays away from me,” he said. “It’s really ing for Powers.

“I knew that having the surgery sweet, but your armpits get raw now would be better for my knee in from the crutches.”

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Have something to say?

Write a letter to the editor. Email us a letter at letters@thesquall.com

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Photo by Molly Brewster

The number one fan: With crutches by his side, junior Jim Powers watches a wrestling match. Before Powers hurt his knee, he wrestled in the 145 pound weight class.

Friday, February 25, 2005

the Squall

sports

11

For students like Ball, poker is not about the law A fun past time for some is a misdemeanor for others Robert Kuzon staff writer

As the last card of the hand was turned, sophomore Josh Ball knew that his poker tournament was over, for this weekend at least. Ball, along with many others, has been swept away by the poker craze.

Ball says he spends around 10 hours a week playing poker and that a single tournament can last up to eight hours. “I don’t see playing poker as gambling really, ” Ball said. “I see it as paying $5 to go to see a movie at the theater, more like

entertainment.”

Although the law is not strictly enforced, this form of entertainment is against the law. Winnings of under $50 can be classified as a misdemeanor offence and a winning of $50 or more is classified as a high court misdemeanor. That doesn’t stop Ball and others from playing.

“We play at least one tournament a week. I don’t even really consider it breaking the law,” he said.

ESPN may be responsible for the trend. The network started showing the annual World Series of Poker in the 1980’s but has recently moved it to a spot in prime-time. Although ESPN was the first, other networks have picked up on the trend and have started showing poker events on a daily basis including The Travel

Channel, The Discovery Channel, of sunglasses and stack their chips BRAVO and the Gaming Network. in the exact same way they play, and “I watch poker whenever I see it it’s intimidating to people.” on,” Ball said. “I Watching watch how the TV is not the pros will play a only way for hand so that I a newcomer can imitate what to learn the It’s really just a way to they do when I game though. get together.

There has am in a game.”

According been a recent to Ball, the key increase on the to being a good number of how -sophomore Josh Ball player is intimito books being written about dation. “The best thing you the game. can do is get inside the other guy’s Poker legend Doyle Brunson head, intimidating him with a glare, has written numerous books on the chip tricks, and verbal attacks is key games. His best selling Poker Suin winning at poker,” he said. “I persystem is over 1000 pages long. know guys that wear the same pair “I have three books;” poker enthusi-

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ast sophomore Conor Daining said.

“But my favorite is the one by Phil Helmuth because he is such a strong player, and I like how he carries himself at the table.”

Playing poker in home games is much different then playing in a real tournament or casino. Ball says that on average there are anywhere between 5-20 people who play in the home tournaments and that the winner walks with about $60, second with $15 and third with their money back.

“It’s really just a way to get together with your buddies and have some good clean fun,” he said. “I don’t think that gambling has a bad influence on kids. I think that if anything it is just a way to hang out and maybe make a little money.”

Poker Facts •In the televised World Poker Tour (WPT) players can buy in and compete for $ 1.2 million.

•Celebrities play poker and their winnings are donated to a charity of their choice.

•The World Series of Poker champion took home $4 million in 2004 (Greg Ramer). source: worldpokertour.com

FCA connects athletes with faith Thomas Leonard opinions editor

Photo by Dan Monson

Balance Eyes Elbow Follow-through: Junior Jeff Ziegler lines up a shot, or maybe a pass, under the pressure of DeUnte’ White of Pioneer. Senior Joe Cenci looks on. Ziegler scored 18 points at Pioneer while Cenci scored three.

Basketball falls short at Pioneer With 9-8 record, basketball team readies for match up with rival Chelsea tonight at home

Dan Monson staff writer

There were 36 seconds remaining in the game.

Dexter received the ball and had a chance to tie the game, down 43-40.

Senior guard Joe Cenci advanced up the court, passing the center court with a left-handed dribble.

Suddenly, out of nowhere, two Pioneer defenders smothered Cenci and forced a game-changing turnover.

The first day of February didn’t turn out the way the varsity basketball team would’ve liked, as they ended up losing 46-40 at Ann Arbor Pioneer.

With a strong contingent of Dexter support in the crowd and a standing Dexter student section of only about six people giving their support, the Dreadnaughts tried to slow down Pioneer.

Dexter hung around all game, but early in the third quarter they made their move.

Only down 19-18 at the half, the Dreadnaughts went on a 9-0 run to start the second half and took the

lead by a score of 27-19 with a three fourth, the intensity was turned up as the two teams struggled to estabfrom Junior Jeff Ziegler.

Ziegler ended up with a team-high lish the upper hand.

Pioneer seemingly pulled away 18 points.

But the Pioneers left the Dread- with five minutes remaining, leading naughts second-guessing themselves 41-32, but the Dreadnaughts cut the as they went on an 11-3 run late in Pioneer’s lead to 43-40 with 52 secthe third quarter to take the lead for onds remaining on a Zalucki lay-up.

But the Pioneers pulled away with good. smothering defense, forcing turnPioneer guard Jimmy Boone overs on posmade four sessions that out of the four 3(Pioneer) just made some would’ve allowed Dexpointers he big shots and got some moter to tie the attempted mentum. ...We had a chance score. in the sec“(Pioond half to win but couldn’t pull it neer) had and paced off. good dePioneer to fense,” Zathe victory. lucki said.

“Jimmy -Rob McCarty, senior “It was Boone was hard to move on fire,” junior Rob Zalucki, who added 15 the ball around because of their ball pressure.” points, said.

Only four players scored for DexBoone lead Pioneer with 19 points.

The Dreadnaughts were quick to give ter, including Ziegler with 18, Zalucki credit to Pioneer’s shooting perfor- with 15, junior Matt Gucker with 4, and Cenci with 3. mance, however.

“It was a good game,” McCarty “(Pioneer) just made some big shots and got some momentum,” se- said.

“We had a chance to win but just nior captain Rob McCarty said. “We couldn’t really run any offense that couldn’t pull it off.”

Coach Randy Swoverland did well either.”

The lead that evaporated from not want to talk to a Squall reporter eight had many of the players shak- about the game.

As of Feb. 16, the team’s record is ing their heads, as the Pioneers turned up the intensity and forced 9-8, and their next home game is tonight against Chelsea at 7 p.m. turnovers.

Said Cenci, “(This game) was re“The 1-2-2 press forced us to commit a lot of turnovers,” Cenci said. ally disappointing.

“We thought like we played pretty “They were so quick to trap us that it well, but the turnovers killed us.” was very difficult to move the ball.”

With Pioneer up one to start the

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Upcoming events for the basketball team Come to the Dexter vs Chelsea game tonight and cheer on the home team.

Don’t forget about districts on Feb. 28 through Mar. 5 in the Dexter “Dread Dome.”

Come to the dance on Saturday

Among a group of 1500 football coaches from around Michigan, two Dexter coaches attended a conference in Battle Creek in January 2004.

At this conference, coach and math teacher Brian Baird, a Christian with what he calls a growing faith, found himself at a breakfast sponsored by the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA).

Baird knew about FCA before, but it was the breakfast that triggered his interest. FCA combined two integral elements of his life: faith and sports.

It gave him opportunities to follow his interests.

“I love working with young people,” Baird said, explaining his motivation for starting Dexter’s FCA group, called a huddle. “I was looking for a way to help young people and use my growing faith. Young people, especially, need spiritual guidance with their faith.”

Two years later the Dexter Huddle is in its first year of consistent existence, led by Baird and his friend Jay Brooks. Every Monday they gather for a discussion-based Bible study, clustering in a quiet alcove at Foggy Bottom.

On any Monday evening at 7 a troupe of high school students drop in and line up at the counter to order hot chocolates, soups and mochas just like other clientele, only these students are the Dexter’s Christian athletes “It was,” Baird recounted, “just Lynn (Sutter), Jake (Lavalli), and Ali (Warr) that showed up (when meeting at the high school). We keep getting new people each week.”

“One day we didn’t have school, and I wasn’t sure if the school would be open,” Baird said about a January FCA meeting . “So we decided to try Foggy Bottom, and we’re still meeting here.”

Even though the FCA moved there recently, the ties fell into place before. Brooks met Foggy Bottom owner Doug Marrin when the cafe was bare drywall.

“Turns out he was a youth leader at the Methodist Church,” Brooks said. “He was really interested in what we’re doing.”

And although Baird may use his room for its DVD player, Foggy Bottom proved its worth to attendance.

“More people started showing (at Foggy Bottom)” sophomore Warr said. “Probably because of the mochas.”

Sometimes music hampers hearing but the relaxed atmosphere lets discussion flow freely.

Lavalli, a junior, said he appreciates those discussions. “I like using what we talk about in my sports, like motivating me to work harder,” he said.

Students can pick discussion topics relevant to their busy lives, in-

Dexter FCA at a glance •First formal meeting: Sep.... 20, 2004 •Meetings: Mondays @ 7 (until 8:30), usually at Foggy Bottom.

•Leaders: Brian Baird & Jay Brooks •FCA began in 1954 and is headquartered in Kansas City, MO. •6,598 FCA huddles existed by 1997. source: www.dexterfca.org cluding subjects of recent weeks: anger management and motivation.

The Huddle’s web site provides details about each weekly study, including the topic and location.

“The Bible studies we hold every week are called Huddle meetings,” Brooks said. “Then we have Huddle challenges as much as possible, usually every other month.”

“We had a disc tournament this fall,” Warr said about a past Huddle challenge. “We’re gonna be planning an Ultimate Frisbee day pretty soon. We just try to get out and do stuff together.”

These ideas include a decathlon combining Playstation, euchre and volleyball; a huge hike; a volleyball tournament; and the most ambitious yet, a weekend jaunt to a Muskegon luge run owned by Baird’s brother.

In addition to sports activities, the FCA also gets involved with the community. After a recent meeting Warr mentioned collecting stuffed animals for children in Iraq as potential service.

Junior Jessica Zalucha, who joined FCA on the invitation of her sister, worked with her 4-H club and the FCA for Shop with a Cop. “We made cookies in a jar for the kids (involved in Shop with a Cop),” Zalucha said. “It’s where you put all the ingredients for cookies into a jar (so) the kids can make their own.”

Service to the community is one of Baird’s goals to achieve through FCA. “We’re looking for service to the community with a focus on missions and Biblical support for athletes,” he said about his vision. “Students need to know that there are other Christians out there on the field supporting them.”

12

the Squall

photostory

Friday, February 25 , 2005

Battle’s bands

With another Battle of the Bands come and gone, fans say it was another great one Sarah Craft editor in chief

Photo by Brandon Mayotte

Rockin’’ out: While playing his electric guitar, sophomore Alex Krausmen plays for his band’s fans. The “X” on his hand shows organizers of the Battle of the Bands he’s OK to be in the facility.

Before the last set of the Feb. 10 Battle of the Bands, crowds of people gathered near the front of the stage as band members from Skapocalypse took the stage.

“It’s a great feeling to perform,” junior and drum player for Skapocalypse Marshall Simons said.

“It’s sort of a rush to be up there and see the crowd and everything. I don’t know, it’s pretty cool.”

As the band’s two guitars, bass, horns and drum started for the first song, a mass of people started to dance.

“My legs still hurt,” senior Pat Gravel said. “Skapocalypse is definitely the most fun to dance to.

“Well, they’re really the only ones you can dance to.”

Gravel said he and his friends were right in front next to the stage, so he wasn’t even aware of all of the kids moshing behind him.

All he knew was that he was having fun and he was hot.

“Yeah, I was really sweaty,” he said. “It was really fun though. I was up there with Tom Szymanski and Tom Salveta who’s visiting from

WTMC (an alternative high school program offered by Washtenaw Community College), and we were just going crazy.

“I hadn’t seen Tom Salveta in a while, so it was good to hang out with him. And Tom Szymanski is just a weird kid, so yeah, it was really fun.”

Although the crowd’s reaction to Skapocalypse may have been the best, the group won second place to senior Luke Frutig’s band.

But Simons said members of Skaocalypse weren’t upset.

“They played really well, and they deserved to win,” he said. “We weren’t as good as they were as a group. We hadn’t rehearsed enough together to win this time.”

But Simons said Skapocalypse will be practicing a lot because of upcoming events they’re preparing for.

“We’re going to be releasing a CD pretty soon so we’re going to have to practice a lot for that,” he said. “It’ll be fun and it will be really cool to have a CD out for the first time.”

Gravel said he is excited for the group’s upcoming CD and for their next live performance.

“Yeah, they’re a great band,” he said. “They’re so much fun to listen to, they have a really good energy.”

King of the jungle: From the Bottom’s vocalist and lead guitarist senior Zach Birchmeier blew up the speakers with his intense growl.

From the Bottom did not place.

Photo by Brandon Mayotte

Crazy Ska: Former band member junior Nick Dodson left this school year to attend school in Tennesse and left his band Skapocolypse in Dexter. Senior Mike Vickers is currently his replacement. Skapocollypse placed second at this month’s Battle.

Photo by Brandon Mayotte

They got soul: Junior Ryan Winchester and senior Patrick Gravel dance at Battle of the Bands on Feb. 10 while the Ska band is playing. Although senior Luke Frutig’s band placed first, Gravel said Skapocloypse was the best to dance to.