0405-9

“The seniors are done. Go out and have fun. Run in the sun with a hot dog bun.”

Playin’ hard: The womens soccer team is on their way to the top pg. 11 Scandal: Junior Spencer Ryan hacks his way to a 10 day suspension. pg.7 May 20, 2005 Volume XVI, Issue 9

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

Battle for time: Battle of the Bands rescheduled for May 26 pg.6

Little becomes permanent high school principal Raleigh Holmes morale manager

Interim principal Patrick Little was named principal on Friday, May 13. Little was an interim principal for the second half of the school year due to Glen Stevenson moving to the assistant superintendent’s job.

Superintendent Evelynn Shirk, along with other district principals including Jami Bronson, Mary Marshall, Roger Moore, Judy Harnish and Glen Stevenson, narrowed 32 applicants down to 16 preliminary candidates. This preliminary list was then cut to three candidates.

The last three people were Brian

Klochack, co-principal at Owosso High School; Nancy Shannon who is currently working on her PhD at Baker College and previously worked at Fordson High School as the assistant principal; and Little, who has been at Dexter for seven years.

They were all interviewed by a committee of teachers, parents and students on May 5. Each committee member voted for who they would want as principal. The votes were tallied, and the results given to Paula Thomas who acted as a facilitator for the evening.

The interview committee supported Klochack as their first choice,

Student is Young Citizen of the Year finalist

so Shirk talked to him first. “I contacted Mr. Klochack and offered him the job,” Shirk said. “He had some questions about the district so Mr. Stevenson and I met with him on Tuesday afternoon. We meet for over an hour.”

Shirk said Klochack had some questions about insurance that Shirk could not answer. Business Director Sharon Raschke give him a call later that night.

“It was my understanding that call went well, and so I was confident that he would take the job,” Shirk said. “When he called with his answer the next morning, he declined

to accept the position.”

Klochack didn’t return phone calls seeking comment on his reasons for turning down the job.

Shirk then offered the job to Little. “I am confident that Mr. Little will do a great job of leading Dexter High School,” Shirk said.

Little accepted and is excited about the opportunity.

“I am really excited about it,” Little said. “I’m proud to have this job and proud of our high school.”

Little went to college at Western Michigan University and received a bachelor of science in political science degree with minors in English

Molly Brewster morale manager

As college admissions become more competitive, students find it is important to show enthusiasm in order to be accepted.

Counselor Larry LeBlanc said the first step in college applications is to pick several schools to apply to.

“We suggest that you pick one ‘reach’ school that you’d really like to go to but might be more difficult to get into, several schools that you would most likely get into and one fall back school,” he said.

The next step according to LeBlanc is to make college visits.

“It is important to visit the colleges and make sure that they are the best for you personally, academically and have a good career path that you are interested in,” he said. “After the visit a person will have an intuitive sense about whether or not that is where they will fit.”

And junior Kelsey Wilson has taken LeBlanc’s advice.

She said she has made plans to visit several colleges she would like to attend.

“I have already talked to some professors at a couple of the schools,” she said. “Over Memorial Day weekend I am going to visit University of Wisconsin or Indiana.

Then early in the summer I am going to look at the University of Washington.”

On college visits LeBlanc said it is important to meet with administration at larger school or a professor at smaller schools. “Talking to administrators, professors and students is a really good way to get a feel for what the school really is like,” he said.

Wilson said she has already contacted all the schools she will be applying to.

“I have e-mailed all the admissions departments at the schools I am planning to apply to,” she said. “I told them I was interested in going into international business, and they gave me information on their programs.”

When contacting college administrations Leblanc said it is important to be sincere.

“Colleges don’t want to receive letters of recommendation from senators because they know that they don’t have any idea of what kind of person the applicant really is,” he said. “Students shouldn’t try and be too flashy. A letter of recommendation from a teacher has much more value.”

Colleges big and small do read all essays and letters of recommendation they receive from students LeBlanc said.

“Enthusiasm really is important when it comes down to the last pool of candidates that schools are looking to accept,” he said.

“Schools want to see that students really are interested and that they have done their research about the school and why they want to go there.”

If a student is wait listed LeBlanc said it is best to write the school a follow-up letter restating why they want to go to the school so badly.

“It’s important to say why the school is such a perfect fit, that you like the living conditions, that they have a good program for what your looking to study,” he said.

“It is also important to tell the school what you can bring to them. And that just might make the difference whether you get in or not.”

One great citizen: Because of his involvement in community service, three teachers nominated senior Mark Messmore for the Ann Arbor News Young Citizen of the Year Award.

Messmore was one of nine finalists for this award.

Senior pranks tolerated until laws are broken Dan Monson staff writer

Students found that “The Rock”

by Parker Road was not in it’s usual place on May 9.

It had been buried.

The spray paint on the road indicated that this was indeed the first senior prank from the class of 2005.

Senior pranks have been numerous in the past few years, ranging from the para pro’s golf cart floating on the retention pond to dead animals in the ceiling tiles.

According to assistant principal Andrea Glynn, senior pranks are normal occurrences but cross the line when a law is broken in the process. She said last week’s prank would have been fine if public defacing hadn’t been involved.

“The main problem I had with (the rock) prank was that it wasn’t legal,” she said.

Glynn said she didn’t know who executed “The Rock” prank, but an investigation is underway to determine what action, if any, should be taken.

On duty: Patrick Little stands in the hallway. He became principal May 13.

Early college application has benefits

Sarah Craft editor in chief

Senior Mark Messmore was recognized as an Ann Arbor News Young Citizen of the Year on May 8.

Messmore said he was actually nominated by three people from the school, assistant principal Andrea Glynn, Key Club adviser Amy Raus and National Honor Society adviser Cheryl Wells.

“I see how big of an impact he’s made on the school,” Glynn said. “He is so committed to community service, more so than anyone I’ve seen.”

Glynn said she and the other teachers gathered information about Messmore’s accomplishments and sent in the nomination.

“It was really nice of those teachers to nominate me,” he said. “I don’t do those things for recognition, but it was nice to get some.”

As a finalist, Messmore will receive a $1000 scholarship from the Ann Arbor News which he said will definitely go towards college. But since he is attending the University of Michigan in the fall, he said the $1000 is nice to have, but not that nice. “$1000 will pay for room and board,” Messmore said laughing.

“Not all of it, but it’ll take a stab at it.”

and social studies in 1994.

From 1994-1995 he taught social studies and English at Harper Creek High School in Battle Creek. He then taught at Charlotte High School from 1995-1998.

Little taught in Dexter from 19982001.

In 2003 he received a specialist degree in educational leadership from Eastern Michigan University.

As for his plans for Dexter High School, Little said, “I want to develop more plans for struggling students.

I also want to improve communication between students, parents and school.”

█Administrators decides what action should be taken for senior pranks

Off to school: Instead of being stressed during her senior year, junior Kelsey Wilson plans on applying to colleges early. This summer, Wilson plans on visiting many colleges to see which is best for her.

“

Over Memorial Day weekend I am going to visit University of Wisconsin or Indiana.

Then early in the summer I am going to look at the University of Washington.

”

-Kelsey Wilson, junior

Photo by Mike Vickers

U of M: Walking through campus, senior Whitney Holmes explores her future school. “I applied as soon as you could,” Holmes said. “I didn’t want to have to worry about where I was going to college and go through the whole waiting process.”

Community members questions district’s honesty Editor’s note: This is a continuation of an article from last issue looking at issues raised by an article in The Community Observer about the district’s budget situation.

Hilary McCown & Brandon Mayotte copy and image editors

Photo by Mike Vickers

Trouble in paradise: With more meetings, tries to solve problems within the school system.

Former superintendent Bill Spargur announced his resignation to the board of education in September of 2003.

Due to the early termination of his contract, the board drafted a “Retirement/Separation Agreement.”

This would allow the board to accept his resignation early.

“According to the contract, if the board terminated the contract early, (Spargur) would have been entitled to 15 months severance pay,” Superintendent Evelynn Shirk said.

Because of that, Spargur was paid $63,332, a sum that was agreed upon

by Spargur and the board.

This was, according to Shirk, much less than the severance pay would have been.

However, according to board treasurer Jane Hoggard, Spargur’s decision to retire was no one’s but his own.

Thus, Hoggard says the board owed him no money.

Since the contract wasn’t terminated by the board, no extra money would had to have been paid.

Shirk, though, said that her understanding of the matter is that regardless of whose idea it was to terminate the contract, some amount of money had to paid, whether it was the 15 month severance pay or the $63,000 figure that the board and Spargur agreed upon.

When attempts were made to get the name and phone number of the district’s attorney to receive infor-

mation regarding the legality of this transaction, Shirk said she could not give this name because any contact with the district’s lawyer costs the district money.

She did give the name of another lawyer who she said could answer questions regarding the situation.

The Squall was finally given the name of the district’s attorney by Mona Auerbach, Shirk’s secretary.

Charles Durr, an attorney at Miller Canfield, the district’s law firm, said “Nobody’s done anything illegal.”

But added since it was Spargur’s decision to retire, “there is no obligation to pay him for the remainder of (his term in office).”

However, Durr said that it is common for district’s to pay their superintendents for leaving early.

As well as the issue of whether or not money was actually owed to Sp-

argur, another debate persists about the legality of Spargur’s last contract renewal through 2005.

Rather than drafting a new contract, the board voted on an extension of Spargur’s original contract and put it in the minutes of a board meeting.

No formal contract was written and no names were signed.

Attorney Lindsey Schek, a lawyer not affiliated with the district, said that Spargur’s original contract that went through in 2004 was poorly written and that is the reason he was able to receive pay for his early resignation.

The contract had no resignation policy, which, according to Schek, is not the normal practice.

Though what the board did was legal, she said it seems unwise. “I can’t believe someone would write a

contract without a resignation policy,” she said.

Spargur did not return phone calls seeking comment on the situation.

As far as the original Community Observer article that started the controversy, long term board member Dick Lundy said that he doesn’t think the article “represents what happened in any way shape or form.”

However, Mike Betcold, editor of the Community Observer, said, “Nothing that we’ve printed has been proven to be inaccurate.”

According to Betcold, he had been receiving letters, e-mails and phone calls for years about the district and that he had been following the information for a while as a potential story.

“It’s our job to serve the community ... I would never publish anything that I had doubts about.”

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news

Friday, May 20, 2005

Promising new faces for next year’s student council, NHS

New leaders elected for next year Jenny Heldt features editor

More than 70 juniors filed in to NHS advisor Cheryl Wells’ room at 7:00 on a Friday morning for their first of many NHS meetings. There was some excited chatter as former president and senior Mark Messmore had to quiet the new members.

“The meeting was great,” Messmore said. “I feel like we got a lot accomplished. We got people to chair every event a task that NHS is responsible for.”

The first order of business was to

elect a new president.

“I believe that the president needs to be someone with integrity and is willing to dedicate their entire self to NHS,” Messmore said looking back. “I hope the new president sees the importance in this title and realizes how much dedication it actually takes.”

To fill Messmore’s footsteps, the new members chose Caroline Wolcott.

“I am excited because it’s a cool responsibility to have,” Wolcott said.

“It’s nice to be voted into that position because it shows that my peers trust me.”

After voting for a president, the new members had to fill the rest of the officer positions. These include vice-president, secretary, and treasurer.

Next they voted her twin brother, Charles, as her vice-president.

Matt Mead: Was recently elected as treasurer for National Honors Society.

Doug Bailey: Was recently elected as the treasurer of the student council.

Alex Heidtke: Was recently elected as the student council secretary.

“I think it will be really cool to work with him,” Caroline said with a grin. “I mean, if I ever need help with something, his room is right down the hall from mine,” she said with laughter. “I mean, I could call a quick president and vice-president meeting anytime I want to.”

The new secretary is junior Michelle Svetkoff who will work with the new treasurer, junior Matt Mead.

With so many new members, the tasks next year will be easier to complete.

“All the new members seemed excited and willing to help out,” Messmore said. “That is really good, because if people aren’t willing to help out you won’t get anything accomplished. They are lucky to have so many people for next year.”

The student council officials were also recently elected and they are looking forward to the tasks ahead.

“I’m looking forward to setting up pep assemblies and stuff for next year,” sophomore and secretary Alex Heidtke said. “I am glad I was voted secretary because it’s a higher posi-

tion in student council so it lets me do more for the school. Eventually I want to be President my senior year.

That would be great.”

And Heidtke isn’t the only one excited for next year.

“Next year should be a great year for student council,” junior and Vice president Ryan Seagram said. “We are going to do a lot of good for the school, and have a lot of fun doing it. I am looking forward to being a higher rank officer and taking control of activities. Hopefully we can raise the bar for the years to come.”

Newly elected officials National Honors Society: President: Caroline Wolcott Vice-president: Charles Wolcott Secretary: Michelle Svetkoff Treasurer: Matt Mead

Student Council: President: Molly Brewster Vice-President: Ryan Seagram Secretary: Alex Heidtke Treasurer: Doug Bailey Class representatives will be chosen in fall.

Students not allowed to go to parking lot during school hours cars,” she said. “When students leave our supervision, we can’t keep them safe.”

“It’s a common mistake, leaving belongings in your car,” principal Patrick Little said. “I know the students are being honest when they ask to go get their sixth hour binder out of their car.”

When Dexter is compared to Pioneer, Little said it’s a necessity for the Pioneer students to have open campus.

Little said. “As for our students, as long as they ask for permission, they are still allowed to go to their cars.”

Sam Harris entertainment editor

During a recent set of morning announcements, secretary Joan Whitehead reminded students they are not allowed to leave the school during the day without permission.

According to Whitehead more students have been leaving the school to go to their cars and some are not returning until later in the day.

“At least 25 or more students a day are leaving to go to their

Photo by Mike Vickers

Students unable to use recources Students miss out on valuable career services due to budget cuts Jennifer Allen circulation manager

Twenty-eight students sat listening to teacher Shirley Bitters as she outlined the latest opportunity for her financial management class: job shadowing. The job shadowing program Bitters introduced offers students the chance to follow someone during their job for a day.

The program has approximately 20 people who volunteered to be shadowed for a day. And while students won’t be paid to job shadow,

Bitters said the job shadowing experience is a valuable one.

“It’s hard to know exactly what you want to do when you haven’t seen what it’s like,” Bitters said. “The more people can actually get out in the work place, the better.”

The job shadowing program is currently limited to Bitters’ classes, but Bitters said if she had it her way, every student would be given the opportunity.

“It’s only (the classes that I teach) that can do job-shadowing,” she said. “But it wouldn’t be hard for students to find a job shadow opportunity. I would advise for them to ask around.”

Besides the job shadowing program, various other programs exist to encourage students to explore career options.

According to counselor Larry LeBlanc, there are a few computer programs that may aid a student’s decision for kind of career they would be interested in, including

DISCOVER and EDP’s.

“DISCOVER is a web-based program that students begin in the 10th grade,” LeBlanc said. “It’s a wonderful program that a lot of kids have found useful.”

Besides the DISCOVER program, which is accessible through any computer with Internet access, an electronic Educational Development Plan provided by the school is another program designed to help students explore career options.

This web-based program is also available to any Dexter student and is accessible through the Internet at www.thirdcoastedp.com.

Counselors handed out passwords to students when they were introduced to the program. LeBlanc said lost passwords may be obtained through the counseling office.

On the Third Coast EDP web site, a student may create and edit their own resume as well as learn about different careers.

Many students, however, feel

that the school isn’t doing enough to help prepare them for the work force.

“I don’t feel prepared,” junior Kayla Larson said. “I don’t think visiting one web site is going to tell me what I’m going to do with the rest of my life. We need more information.”

Bitters also said more resources are necessary to help students figure out what they want to do for a career.

“Our students need to be prepared,” Bitters said. “There could definitely be more to help our students figure out what they want to do.”

According to LeBlanc, there used to be a career resource center located near the counseling office which was funded by the school. Then funding was cut and parent volunteers ran the center. Now, however, the resource center is closed.

“It would be nice to be able to have that,” LeBlanc said. “We need more to better prepare our students.”

Change of ACT, SAT format causes stress The addition of the writing section is stressful for some but is meant for better assessment Michells Svetkoff managing editor

Stressed. Overworked. Pressured.

With the new SAT many 2006 graduates are feeling the strain of preparing for the test.

But according to junior Erin O’Brien, the new SAT is not as terrible as it is hyped up to be, as long as you’re prepared.

“I took an SAT class,” she said, “and I thought the (actual) test was easier than the ones in the class I took.”

O’Brien has taken seven standardized already, and she says she is tired of taking them.

But according to guidance counselor Gerry Holmes, the new SAT was designed to help colleges better assess students, not stress them out.

Holmes said, “(Colleges) are finding that over the last 15 years students are not being prepared as well at the high school level and then need to be remediated in college to bring them up to college level work.”

The main difference between the old and new SAT is the addition of the writing portion which colleges use to evaluate students further.

“I think they (college admissions) will use the SAT essay like they use the ACT writing part,” O’Brien said. “The colleges see the essay, so it’s like the essays you write for them (when applying).”

No matter how colleges use the writing sections, when taking the test, O’Brien advises students to take precautions while testing.

“Make sure you watch your time,” she said. “Don’t answer questions you have no idea on. If you don’t know, don’t guess.”

Squall returns home with Spartan, Buckeye Jennifer Allen circulation manager

The Squall staff earned two major awards among many others at both the Michigan Interscholastic Press Association and the Great Lakes Interscholastic Press Association annual awards ceremonies in April.

While GLIPA critiques student newspapers from Michigan, Ohio and Indiana, MIPA only judges papers from Michigan. Hundreds of schools enter each year in hopes of

earning high honors in journalism.

The Squall staff returned home with a combined 59 individual awards which included many awards for design and writing.

“We’ve tried to do a lot more with design and photography this year,” editor in chief senior Sarah Craft said.

“Our designer Mike Vickers has worked really hard to make all of the pages look polished.”

Craft said she is proud of the Squall staff and and their achieve-

ments.

“I think that the awards really reflect all of the hard work we’ve done,” Craft said. “We’ve put out nine good issues, and I’m glad that we were recognized for it.”

According to Newspaper advisor Rod Satterthwaite, The Squall has come a long way since its first issue in 1999, when there were only five staff members.

“When the Squall was started, there were only two individual awards given to us,” Satterthwaite

said. Since then, the highest number of individual awards was 20. To go from 20 to 59 is huge improvement.”

This is The Squall’s third year receiving GLIPA’s Buckeye Award and the fourth for MIPA’s Spartan Award. Both awards are the highest honors awarded by either MIPA or GLIPA and are awarded to student newspapers with the best overall quality.

“I’m very proud,” Satterthwaite said. “We’ve done better this year than any year so far.”

Making deadline: Editor in chief senior Sarah Craft and journalism adviser and teacher Rod Satterthwaite discuss the latest Squall issue.

photo by Mike Vickers

Friday, May 20, 2005

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the Squall

feature

Dexter graduate heads next space shuttle mission Sarah Craft editor in chief

After graduating from Dexter High School in 1964, George Dawson had no idea he would be working for NASA later in his life.

When he was in high school, he said teacher Allen Torp encouraged him to get a technical/science degree.

That advice was useful for Dawson.

“I knew my chances in life would be improved if I got a technical/science degree,” Dawson said. “That’s what I did, and my education helped

me when I least expected it.”

His education took him to Texas.

After receiving a Bachelor of Science in Engineering Technology and a Masters in Business Administration from Western Michigan University in 1971, Dawson said he went to Texas and never came back.

“Last summer I went to a class reunion in Dexter and spent eight days in Michigan,” he said. “(That’s) the longest since 1971.”

With a resumé like Dawson’s, which includes working for NASA for 20 years, some believe he should be in the Dexter alumni hall of fame.

Former organizer of the Dexter Alumni Club Richard Ulrich said a

graduate with such a high national status should be in the hall of fame.

“Kids should know about him,” Ulrich said. “The community should know about him.

“Dexter should be proud of its graduates and I think (Dawson) should be recognized for his accomplishments.”

Although he his glad to be recognized, Dawson said he doesn’t need any kind of honor.

“I was grateful to get a good academic education at DHS that prepared me for college,” he said.

“Michigan is a wonderful state. I still enjoy communicating with old classmates.”

“

I was grateful to get a good acedemic education at DHS that prepared me for

”

-George Dawson, '64 graduate

Courticy of George Dawson

Blast Off: Graduate George Dawson directs viewers as they await the departure of a Ferry Flight from a public affairs event at Fort Campell.

Students attend Prom, even with short notice Metz enjoys senior Prom even though it was a last minute decision Sarah Craft editor in chief

Photo by Sarah Craft

Class of 2005: Senior Jesse Priestly auditions to give a speech for graduation. Assistant principal Andrea Glynn and principal Pat Little were on the panel to select several seniors to give speeches at the graduation ceremony.

Seniors audition to give graduation speeches Seniors Jessie Priestly, Christina Sarnecki, Sarah Craft will speak at graduation June 5 Sarah Craft editor-in-chief

During class on Friday, May 13 assistant principal Andrea Glynn entered senior Jessica Priestly’s classroom.

Glynn informed Priestly that she was giving a speech at graduation.

“I was so excited,” Priestly said.

“I screamed and smiled and hugged her. I don’t think I was expecting to be able to speak.

“There were a lot of people I was competing against who are good writers and speakers, so I didn’t really think I had a chance,” she said.

After working on a speech since December, Priestly said she was glad her hard work paid off.

“I have had drafts and drafts but

I didn’t really like anything,” she what reflective and sort of leave the said. senior class with good advice and Priestly said she was having writ- wisdom,” she said. er’s block and struggling with an “The speaker has to be genuidea she thought would be a success- ine and honest to get their message ful graduation speech. across.”

But then But Glynn her father reisn’t the only minded her of person deciding a quote from a what makes a book he read good speech. to her when She said she was little. there is a board “I always of teachers and loved the administrators book, and I who listen to thought it had students deliver -Andrea Glynn, the right mestheir speech. sage for the After each assistant principal speech,” she contestant pressaid. ents, the group “I guess it decides who are sort of materialized from there and the top three speakers to present at I came up with my speech.” graduation on June 5.

According to Glynn, a successful But many students auditioning speech is one that is going to make were nervous before they presented. the community proud.

“I was a little nervous because “It has to be entertaining, some- it was a little spur of the moment,”

“

The speaker has to be genuine and honest to get their message across.

”

Priestly said.

“I was a little out of breath and I think I went a little faster than I should have, but I guess it went OK.” Besides Priestly, seniors Christina Sarnecki and Sarah Craft will also speak at graduation.

Although there were seven seniors who tried out, there were some who had second thoughts.

“I initially was going to write a speech for graduation,” senior Marissa Wojcinski said. “I thought it would be nice to give a speech but then I realized I had more important things to do like study for my AP exams and finish off my year strongly.

“And I’m also not very fond of the administration and there is no real iniative for doing a speech,” she added.

Nevertheless, those who did audition, were glad they did, especially students who got to give a speech.

“I’m really glad I get to give a speech at graduation,” Priestly said.

“It really is an honor, and I’m glad I was selected.”

Students attend art show at local coffee shop Christina Field photography manager

Those visiting Foggy Bottom to grab a coffee or pastry have found some art too. The art classes have displayed their artwork throughout the café.

Pastel flowers are found near the entrance, skulls by the register and menu board and abstract pieces appear lining the wall on the left.

“There is everything ranging from abstract expressionism to watercolors to different paint mediums,” junior artist Margaret Meyer said.

Sophomore Jillian Wyatt said, “We did canvas paintings with acrylics, watercolors, landscapes, charcoal coloring and some did free

choice work. We worked a couple weeks on the canvas, but we’ve been basically been working on (the pieces) all semester.”

Four classes participated in the show: two Foundations of Art classes, a 3-D class and the Advanced Drawing and Painting class all lead by teacher Autumn Campbell.

The show takes place during the month of May, beginning on May 8 and ending towards the end of the month.

Students are allowed to display any work of theirs and have the option of selling their pieces.

“I think it was pretty successful,” Wyatt said. “I heard a lot of people were going to see it. (Foggy Bottom) was a cool place to hang it because it brought some artsy people.”

Photo by Christina Field

Enjoying Foggy Bottom: Junior artist Margaret Meyer eats a bagel while viewing her classmate’s work displayed around Foggy Bottom. The show takes place from May 8 to the end of the month.

It was the end of the day and senior Dave Metz walked over the catwalk the Friday before prom.

Glancing over the side rails, he said he saw parents setting up for the following night.

But it didn’t matter to him.

He wasn’t going.

Even though his friends and family practically begged him to go, he said he never saw much point.

“I’m not a big dancer or anything,” he said.

“I just kind of figured since I didn’t like dancing, I wouldn’t like going.”

But when he saw parents setting up for the big night, something made him realize his friends were right.

It was his senior year, and he might as well have some fun.

There were a few problems though.

He didn’t have a date, tickets, tux or dinner reservations.

Metz said when he got home, the first thing he did was find a date.

“I figured since (senior) Nick (Svihra) was taking (sophomore) Cassie (Vinke), it would be nice to take (sophomore) Mary (Cebula),” he said.

“I called her up and asked her.”

And Cebula said she was definitely surprised.

“Our families went on spring break together so we were friends and everything,” she said.

“I didn’t really expect anything like this at all, especially with such late notice.

“It was funny,” she said. “He actually called because my mom still had his birth certificate from (spring break).”

“We started talking, and then he just asked me.”

Cebula said as soon as she got off the phone she had so much energy she decided to go for a run.

“I was home alone, and I didn’t have anyone to talk to,” she said.

“I called Cassie to tell her, but I still had so much energy. I drove to Hudson Mills and ran four miles.”

With so little time and so much to do, Metz said he was having a difficult time trying to get everything organized for the following night.

“I wasn’t that nervous before I called Mary,” he said. “I was more nervous after I got off the phone.

“I had no idea how I was going to get everything organized before the next night.”

After speaking with Svihra,

Pleasently surprised: Sophomore Mary Cebula had to find a dress to wear the day of Prom. “Dinner was so much fun,” she said.

On short notice: Senior Dave Metz said he decided to go to Prom after he saw Cebula’s parents at work after school.

“It was a lot of fun,” he said. “I’m glad I decided to go.”

Metz said he squeezed his dinner reservations, and eventually made time to find something to wear.

But Cebula was having her own problems.

With less than 24 hours, she realized she wouldn’t have enough time to buy a dress.

So she called everyone she knew to see if she could borrow one.

“Everything actually ended up running really smoothly,” Cebula said.

“I borrowed a dress from my brother’s girlfriend.

“When I called my mom to tell her I was going to prom she was at the school building and (former student) Jackie Bastion was there too.

“Right away she volunteered to do my hair and make up.”

When the night finally came, both Metz and Cebula were glad they went.

“Dinner was so much fun,” Cebula said.

“We went with a whole bunch of people and the best part was when (senior) Andrew Vinke ordered his dinner and spilled it all over himself.

“We were all eating and talking and everything but then somehow he spilled almost all of ravioli all over his tux.”

After the group finally settled down, Cebula said Vinke covered himself with napkins.

“He had four napkins tucked into his shirt, they were draped over his arms, on his lap, everywhere,” she said. “It was so funny.”

Although the day before was a slightly stressful time for both Metz and Cebula, Metz said he was glad he went to his senior prom.

“I realized there was a lot more to prom then just dancing,” he said.

“It was fun to go out to dinner with all of my friends and just hang out at prom.

“There were so many games and so many people there to talk to. It was a lot of fun, and I’m glad I decided to go.”

Food and Nutrition presents...

Chicken Fajitas Grilled Cheese

May 25 June 9

4

the Squall

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Friday, May 20, 2005 “We danced around and sang, and then people were free to thank people in the class for being good friends. A lot of people apologized for fights they had in like eighth grade.”

Senior retreat provides bonding experience courtesy of Johnny, Zuel Samantha Harris entertainment editor

Photo by Christina Field

Looking to the sky: After seeing the advantages of the Air Force Academy, junior John Parker began to concider flying as a profession. He said a good place to start is by applying to the Air Force summer camp.

John Parker considers the Air Force Junior John Parker looks at an Air Force camp in Coloroado Springs.

Stephanie Rushlow ads manager

Among family and many unfamiliar faces, junior John Parker walked the streets of the Air Force academy campus in Colorado Springs last November.

“I applied for a summer Air Force camp not too long ago in Colorado Springs,” Parker said.

“But I didn’t get in because I sent out my application two days before the deadline.

“I had a really good resume, After we researched it more, it but I applied too seemed even better. The program late.

They sent me is a lot like a military, but yet it is a a letter in reschool. turn saying that -John Parker, unfortunately I junior wasn’t accepted but thank you. ” Even though Parker was not accepted to the summer camp he and his family still toured the campus just after football season ended.

“My family and I really liked it, he said.

“We spent about five days there,

“

”

and it was really a great place.

“What else was so cool about my trip was that my dad and I went to one of the Academy football games.

“It was blizzarding outside, but it was so fun. I had such a good experience visiting Colorado.”

In addition to touring the academy and watching a football game in the Air Force’s home stadium, Parker said he realizes joining the Air Force could affect his life.

“My family really liked it because it is college for free,” he said.

“The government gives you $28 thousand dollars with the only exception that if you stay at the school past your sophomore year that you graduate from there. Otherwise you have to pay all of the money back.”

But before Parker made any final decision he considered all of his options.

With so many opportunities available he said he is unsure about becoming a pilot.

“I would want to be a pilot, but I don’t have the eye sight,” Parker said.

“They want those guys [pilots] to have perfect vision and not wear glass or contacts so that kind of eliminates my chances.”

Before Parker learned of the Air Force summer camp his uncle told him about his experience in the Air Force.

“I never really had any interest in the Air Force until my sophomore year because my uncle was in the Air Force,” he said.

“After we researched it more, it seemed even better. The program is a lot like the military, but yet it is a school.”

When he visited the area, Parker said he met with many advisers.

“Lieutenant Greeds, one of the men I met on the tour, told me that if you are a good student and have skills you will most likely take on a leadership skill. Also a lot of the roles have to do with seniority.”

But because Parker doesn’t expect his future to consist of a plane full of passengers under his directions, he has taken an interest in other aspects of engineering.

“Something interesting that I found out was that the engineers that design for the Indy 500 make a lot of money,” he said.

“They just tell the director of the project how much money they want for their design, and that’s how much they get.”

The seniors gathered at the Dexter Methodist Church for the Senior Retreat on May 11.

“It was goofy, but it’s really fun,” senior Sarah Hubbard said about the retreat.

The seniors played various games and participated in bonding activities led by Zuel and Johnny.

“We played games such as an updated version of rock paper scissors except we imitated wizards and dragons,” Hubbard said.

“I, at least, had a good time with all of my friends. I can’t complain about not having school because it was just a day of hanging out with our friends.”

In addition to games, seniors had the chance to make amends to people they had hurt in the past. “We passed spoons through our shirts,” Hubbard said.

“We danced around and sang, and then people were free to thank people in the class for being good friends.

A lot of people apologized for fights they had in like eighth grade.”

Hubbard was also appreciative of the the day’s moderators who lead retreats like this throughout the country.

“Zuel and Johnny both tried their best to ensure the seniors that they would have a great time throughout the whole day.” Hubbard said.

Life skills teacher Shirley Bitters started the Senior Retreat tradition in 2002.

Every year since the retreat was held at the Knights of Columbus Hall on Dexter-Chelsea Road.

Due to the size of the class of 2005, however, Bitters decided to move the retreat to the Methodist church off Huron River Drive.

“Overall I think our class had a relatively good time,” Hubbard said. “I can understand how some people were bored, but it was still a nice bonding experience.”

Reflecting on the trip: Senior Sarah Hubbard, who attended the Senior Retreat on May 12, participated in many activites and said it was a nice bonding experience.

Students perform poetry Possible future pilot: Junior John Parker, after speaking with his uncle, considers joining the Air Force and hopes to attend an Air Force camp in Colorado Springs.

Sara Newell circulation manager

Eight months ago sophomore Caronae Howell joined a poetry class in Ann Arbor only to discover that she had a passion for it. “It’s really fulfilling,” she said. “(Poetry) just makes you feel better. It’s a way to communicate in an artistic form.”

Recently students such as Howell have participated in poetry slams around the state. English teacher Deb Marsh takes students interested in “slamming” to places such as Birmingham for student slams.

Marsh also advises SPACE which has an Open Mic night where students can perform their poetry as well. “I encourage students to come out and perform.

It’s a great way for them to be heard,” Marsh said.

Howell said she enjoys reading and performing her poetry in front of an audience, however it hasn’t always been easy. “The first time you go up in front of a crowd, it’s scary, but after you get over the initial stage fright it’s easy,” she said.

“Writing for me is important,” Howell said. “But its more than just reading words. It’s a lot like music with so many components and elements that go into it.”

Many students use poetry to express themselves.

Teacher Deb Marsh encourages poetry with SPACE events and trips.

Several teachers help Tiffany Spencer through tough times High school teachers support senior Tiffany Spencer with her brother leaving to fight in Iraq

Christina Field photography manager

When the Army informed senior Tiffany Spencer and her family that her brother, Mark, was going to be sent to fight in Iraq, they were scared yet supportive.

“They told us he was supposed to send him in December, so I was freaking out at school,” she said. “But instead they sent him to Maryland for AIT training. He decided to be a mechanic. So they taught him how to do that in a war situation. (Now) he’s leaving in two months.

“It was hard on me, but it was something he had really, really wanted to do ... so I could handle it,” Spencer said. “But it was hard on my mom. She’d cry every day.”

To help her get through this rough time, she said she had several teachers supporting her. One was Jo Muszkiewicz, her Advanced Composition teacher.

“When my brother was in the

Army, she’d give me hugs because she knew it was a hard time,” Spencer said. Spencer said she felt she could tell Muszkiewisz anything and it was nice to be able to just talk.

“And one time I got made fun of and she got really upset,” Spencer said. “She took me out into the hall for 15 minutes and told me how beautiful she thought I was ... She was crying she was so upset ... She took that class time when she could have been teaching to talk to me. She really cares.”

To add to everything Spencer was dealing with, she was still struggling in her math class. Lisa Bauer, her teacher freshman and sophomore year, went out of her way to come in early to school and stay after to help her.

“It shows that even if they’re not your teacher at the immediate time, they’ll still help you out,” Spencer said. “She’s even planning my graduation party.”

Another staff member who had

a big impact on Spencer was assistant principal Andrea Glynn. Glynn helped a lot, Spencer said, because she had Mark as a student, she has military experience and she speaks German, Tiffany’s mother’s native language. Glynn would pull Spencer out of class to make sure she was OK and come over on the weekends to talk with the family.

“She and her family needed support,” Glynn said. “And as a teacher I felt I should help her. I just feel that to be a good educator or teacher you need to be there for your students when they need it ... I think it’s important to have student-teacher relationships to help them succeed and to know them as people and not just students.”

Glynn said she saw what a hard time the family was going through and tried to help them when she could. “I just think her and her mom are both amazing people, strong people,” Glynn said. “I just wanted to give a little extra support. I knew

they didn’t have family here. They’re (in Germany). I just tried to give her an extra confidence boost sometimes because I thought she needed that.”

And Glynn has plans to stay in contact with Tiffany after she graduates. “I will visit her at Eastern ... I’ll follow up on her and see how she’s doing,” Glynn said. “I guess we’ve always had a special bond since (we met in) eighth grade. I don’t know why that is. We just connected.”

Spencer feels the same. She said, “Mrs. Glynn is basically like my aunt.

She’ll give me a hug, just talk. She’ll ask about my mom and brother. It’s like a family member in school.”

Spencer said it would have been a very difficult time if these teachers had not been there for her, and she thanks them.

“Students: don’t be scared of your teachers,” she said. “They’re not just here for knowledge, they can help ...

They have hearts too. They’re not robots ... You can help them, and they can help you.”

Photo by Christina Field

Catching up: In assistant principal Andrea Glynn’s office, Glynn talks with senior Tiffany Spencer. Spencer said Glynn has been a good influence on her.

Friday, May 20, 2005

the Squall

entertainment

5

Photo by Deb Marsh

A little bit dramatic: Junior Amanda Valente practices her award winning forensic speech on the left. Above, junior Kayla Larson gives feedback to Valente to help prepare her.

Photo by Deb Marsh

Junior places sixth in state forensics tournament Junior Amanda Valente participated in her second state tournament. Last year she came in tenth in the state, moving up four spots this year she came in sixth.

Her goal for next year is to come place in the top three.

Sarah Craft editor in chief

After the semifinal round at the Michigan Interscholastic Forensics Association state tournament, junior Amanda Valente took a walk to get some fresh air.

She was waiting for posting of final round in her event and couldn’t keep her nerves settled so she said she roamed the Central Michigan University campus to keep her mind off her rounds.

As she headed towards the building, she glanced at the postings on the wall and, to her surprise, saw her name written in black permanent marker, telling her she had made it to finals.

“I was so excited,” she said. “I refused to look at postings at this tournament because I was so nervous, and I didn’t mean to look at them when I was taking a walk.

“Actually I didn’t even think they would even be up yet, so when I saw it, I flipped out because I was so excited.”

But final round didn’t go as planned. Although Valente said she did her speech well, the judges still gave her the lowest ranks in the round.

“The judges didn’t connect to my speech at all,” she said. “But that’s how forensics is, I guess.

“If the judges don’t like what you’re talking about, they’ll give you the lowest scores.”

So even though she was third going into the final round, Valente ended up receiving sixth place in the state in oratory.

Although she beat last year’s place of 10th, Valente said she felt like she should have done better.

“I was kind of bummed about getting sixth,” she said.

“My goal at the beginning of the season was to get into final round, but I guess I didn’t really want to be the worst person in finals. Next year I want to be in the top three.”

Even though Valente is disappointed with her ranking at the state tournament, forensics coach Deb Marsh said she is very proud of her team’s performance, especially Valente’s.

“She worked so hard all season long,” Marsh said.

“She was willing to rewrite and re-memorize her speech over and over and over again. She did everything she possibly could to do this well, and I’m very proud of her.”

Although there were four other students who attended the state

tournament, there were also some who didn’t make it out of regionals.

Juniors Cara McLogan and Maggie Craft competed in duo and placed second at the district tournament.

But with such a difficult region, they didn’t make it out of regionals.

However, when she saw so many people they competed against at the regional tournament in the final round at the state tournament, she said she was very surprised. “(The competitors) were good,” McLogan said.

“I guess it does feel pretty good to see that we could sort of compete with them.

“They were better than Maggie and I, but I think if we had an easier region, we could have probably made it to semis.”

Marsh agrees.

“We probably could have gotten more kids to states if we didn’t have such a difficult region,” she said.

“There were a lot of people on the team who didn’t make it out of regionals because we have schools like Portage Central and Portage Northern in our region who are in finals at states in almost every event.

“I know if we could get more kids out of regionals, they would do well,” she said. “It’s just that our state qualifying tournament is comparable to

a final round at states.”

Although there weren’t as many students at states Marsh had hoped, she said she was proud of those who attended.

Besides Valente’s success at the state tournament, there were other students who didn’t break to finals but still received recognition at the tournament.

Seniors Sarah Craft and Mike Vickers were semifinalists in Duo Interpretation.

Juniors Kayla Larson and Erika Griffith were state qualifiers in Poetry and Extemporaneous Speaking but didn’t break to out rounds.

Even though she’s gone through two years in oratory, Valente said she’s going to stick with the event until she thinks she’s done her absolute best.

She said her senior year, she’ll give it another try.

“I like Oratory the most,” she said. “It’s a good event; you inform people on things that really matter, and you can actually make a difference.

“It’s more important than just walking away with a trophy.

“I can walk away knowing that just by speaking out, I made a difference. I wouldn’t trade that for all the first place trophies in the world.”

Freaky Forensics Facts An Oratory speech in forensics is an 8-10 minute persuasive speech on a need-to-know topic.

This year junior Amanda Valente wrote a speech about thimerosal, a chemical containing high amounts of mercury. According to Valente, the chemical is common in some flu vaccines for adults and children.

“I had to do a lot of research, but I found a lot of good stuff which explained some of the dangers,” Valente said. “It was an interesting topic that no one else really thought about.”

Although she didn’t place as high as she would have liked at the state tournament, she said spreading knowledge about the dangers of thimerosal was rewarding.

Wood carving a forgotten hobby Senior Charley Cares takes interest in the American pastime of wood carving.

He has carved man things including knives and gun holsters.

Cares enjoys this form of art over the popular things to do such as watching TV.

Oliver Stone is my hero

Dave Ager staff writer

Baseball, fishing and woodcarving are true American pastimes.

But the most over looked is woodcarving.

“I like to carve for fun,” senior Charley Cares said. “It calms my nerves and soothes my soul.”

Cares said he has carved many things from knives to gun holsters.

Today the world is so fixated on TV and rap artists that the art of woodcarving is often over looked.

The art of wood carving dates back to the days of the ancient Egyptians.

The first wood carvings were usually for religious purposes, statues of gods and such.

Wood carving didn’t truly evolve

Come get a

until the Christian era where wood the cave people.

They used fishing as a source of carvings were also used for religious purpose, but the art was much more food.

Now fishing is a sport of woodsdefined.

Today there are many different man or just people who like to fish. uses for wood carvings.

Fishing is becoming more popuYou can still find people carv- lar and the bass master fan base is ing religious figures, but there are becoming bigger every year.

Baseball also has proven to be a plethora of artists whose carvings one of Ameriare magnificas cent. greatest “I haven’t pastimes. really done Baseball This one time I tried to ask my dad anything too dates back to if I could carve some animals into good, just a the early 1800’s few attempts at when people of the side of my house, but he said carving some all ages formed no. dragons,” informal teams -Charley Cares, Cares said. to play the senior Though art sport of baseis one thing, ball. wood carving Today we also goes into a lot of other things. view baseball on TV on ESPN. Architecture uses wood carvings It is a sport not only in the US, to make a structure more beautiful. but in the world. Baseball has truly “My house has some wood carv- evolved to be an American pastime ings in it,” Cares said. “This one time today.

American pastimes are someI tried to ask my dad if I could carve some animals into the side of my thing no American should be withhouse, but he said no.” out.

Fishing, although more popular They are historically important than woodcarving, has a true place and also provide loads of fun for in our American pastime. anyone, any time, anywhere in any Fishing dates back to the ages of situation.

“

~*~ Pictures that hold a moment in time~*~

Yearbook ~*~Memories that last a lifetime~*~

room #407

$70

”

photo by Mike Vickers

How much wood would a woodchuck chuck?: Inspecting a piece of wood, senior Charley Cares decides whether or not the wood is suitable for carving. Cares said he enjoys making dragons the most.

6

entertainment

New Xbox expected to be a big hit

the Squall Friday, May 20, 2005

THE LAST BATTLE OF THE BANDS WILL HAVE TO WAIT

Here come the bands

Microsoft’s new 360 posses enhanced features T.J. LaRosa staff writer

CITY MADE OF SAND This five member group plays impressive arragments of acoustic rock. With creative singing and song writing they’re a must-see.

1337 5AUC3 Though it has a plain white case and not too many flashy exterior decorations, Microsoft promises to deliver with its new Xbox 360, a slew of super powered PC parts combined with never before seen video technology. Contrary to its appearance, the Xbox 360 could be more revolutionary than any console put on the market.

On May 12 Microsoft teamed up with MTV for the first official announcement of the new edition Xbox. Following the incredible success of the first Xbox's release in 2002, Microsoft plans to issue its Xbox2 in early 2006.

These announcements will mainly deal with pre-marketing the new product for first time Xbox users as well as original Xbox gamers.

For the first time Xbox buyers, Microsoft hopes to attract consumers from the 13-25 age group. Elijah Wood will host the informational session while the band The Killers will play a show in promotion of Microsoft's "Next Xbox".

For the large, diehard original Xbox fan base, the objective of the showcase will be to offer new, better features. Features of the new Xbox include a more enhanced graphics card from Nvidia, the world-leader in graphics cards and a new CPU (central processing unit) that is designed to decode both Xbox formats.

The new Xbox is even more like a personal computer than the first one. It’s processing core has three 3.0 Ghz PowerPC cores.

The GPU (graphics processing unit, which makes the The Xbox video run smoothly) 360 could of the new Xbox has be more also been improved.

Its performance revolutionwill allow gamers to ary than play games like "Half Life 2" with ease, any console something that the put on the original Xbox had market. problems with.

As for the optical drive, the original Xbox had a maximum read speed of 8x. The new Xbox will be equipped with a drive that reads at a 12x speed and games that will be on DVD-9, dual layered discs.

Much of the original Xbox's success is due to the fact that it is the only mainstream console with a built-in hard drive.

No official information on the total size of the hard drive has been released, though Microsoft does say that two gigabytes of the hard drive will be reserved for cache, so expect a beefy hard disc.

The overall significance of the new Xbox is the Xenon combination of hardware, which makes up most of the system.

During game play, users will be able to see things such as enhanced shadows, light reflections and permutations, as well high level shading and extremely detailed 3-D textures.

As far as marketing for the Xbox 360 goes, Microsoft plans to release it the day after Thanksgiving 2005 for best consumer results.

Kick off games have not been officially released yet, but it is expected that an NFL game will be used as the promotional software.

To satisfy parents, the Xbox 360 will be equipped with a V-chip, which comes standard in all TV's manufactured since 2003.

The V-chip allows parents to filter the ratings of games their children play.

"A lot of parents and adults complain about how video games corrupt children’s minds, but now that [Microsoft] puts a V-chip in all the new Xboxs, they have no reason to try and stop our favorite games from being made and played," senior Miles Hayes said.

"It isn't just a new gaming system.

It isn't just another Xbox.

It isn't just a hobby.

It isn't just for fun.

It's Xbox 360.

It's a new way of life."

“

”

Next gig: May 20 at Foggy Bottom coffee house photo by Brandon Mayotte

Singing like a tiger: Singing with his eyes closed, senior Luke Frutig plays mostly origional songs. ‘Luke Frutig’s Band’ came in first place at the last SPACE battle.

It’s on its way: SPACE’s Battle of the bands T

Jon Williamson staff writer

heir instruments were tuned and the bands were ready for the big event, the last Battle. But alas, it was not to be. Due to circumstances out of SPACE’s control they were forced to cancel the Battle of the Bands that was slotted to take place on Thursday May 12.

SPACE adviser Deb Marsh said, “There are a couple reasons we couldn't have Battle, First off our light board is currently being repaired in Wisconsin, and the sound guy we had scheduled understandably left us for a job that actually paid money.”

Undaunted by their set backs, SPACE rescheduled Battle to take place two weeks from the original date, on the 26th.

Although there is a change, most students aren’t too upset.

"It doesn’t matter when it takes place,” sophomore Dan Seling said. “The only thing that matters is the caliber of rock and roll being played. Besides it gives us more time to practice and in our case search for a new guitar player."

Seling's band, like many high school bands, is struggling to maintain a steady line up.

"It’s high school so we change our lineup like a cop eats doughnuts,” Seling said.

Sophomore Alex Krausman, the previous guitarist of Seling's band, said, "It’s hard to maintain several different bands. In the end I had to give one up in order to focus on another. Such is the life of a high school musicians.”

Drama aside, Krausman said, "Everyone should still come out to battle no matter who is playing. It always ends up being a good time."

Some students, however, would have rather gone with the original date.

"I’m bummed,” senior Luke Frutig said. “I would have rather played and gotten it over witH. Now I will have to come back to school After I graduate."

Nevertheless, Battle was moved to May 26 and Seling is sure the last performance of the year will be a success.

"The show is always a good time," he said. "For the most part the people are nice. Everyone's there to have a good time."

For many high school bands, Dexter's Battle of the Bands presents one of their only opportunities to showcase their music. But with the introduction of coffee house Foggy Bottom, some student bands are finding another place to showcase their talent.

In fact the Foggy Bottom is having a high school band festival to try to give students a chance to perform. The festival called Paloozaverde will take place during the week of May 16-21.

Even though there are more opportunities for student bands, president of SPACE junior Paul Jakubik said the last Battle will be a good one.

"Everyone should come out and enjoy the last show of the year,” he said. “It will defiantly be a good time. Besides, you have an extra two weeks before you have to show up. With that kind of time no one has an excuse not to come."

PARTICULAR DOSE A three person group with senior Max Harris holding up the front lines on guitar. Coming in on the back up: graduates Neil Woolf and Jon Fegtly.

The Run Down:

Battle of the bands, originally planned for May 12th. was moved to Thursday, May 26th.

The evening offers a varity of groups playing in different musical genres. Come and see band’s like Skapocalypse, Particular Dose, City made of Sand and Audio Euphoria.

This may be your last chance to check out these groups at SPACE’s Battle of the Bands this year.

Next gig: May 26, Battle of the Bands at Copeland (see article on left)

SKAPOCALYPSE This six piece group features orginal arrangments of tight horn driven rock. Veterans of battle this will be their sixth time there.

Next gig: May 21 at Foggy Bottom coffee house

Band 'Byzantine' gives insight into music industry Lead singer Ojeda discusses band's current position in industry Matt Gauntlett staff writer

In modern metal it’s common to find mediocrity. Most of the time bands put forth an effort that is somewhat satisfying to the average headbanger yet leaves much to be desired. That is until a band like Byzantine comes along.

Rooted in West Virginia, Byzantine formed in 2000 as a three piece band, comprised of Chris Ojeda on vocals and guitar, Tony Rohrbough on lead guitar and Cid Adams on bass.

“We started jamming together in Tony’s basement with a drum machine,” Ojeda said.

“We didn’t have any aspirations of being a big band or anything. We were just doing it for fun.”

With this lineup the band recorded themselves and started playing some gigs to see where things could go.

“We wrote about four or five songs together for a demo,” Ojeda said. “People dug it so we

started playing live for about two years with the drum machine. Then it got to a point where we thought we might need a real drummer.”

In 2002 guitarist turned drummer Matt Wolfe joined the fold, making the band a four piece.

After recording another demo in 2003, the band started to get attention from unexpected places.

“We got a call from Chris Adler from (heavy metal band) Lamb of God, telling us he loved our sound,” Ojeda said, “and he invited us to come and open some shows for them.”

They agreed to join up, and after playing those shows Adler made a call that would only push them further along on the road to success.

“He contacted Prosthetic Records and told them we were straight shooting guys, and they picked us up for three albums,” Ojeda said.

In 2004 Byzantine released their album “The Fundamental Component” which was greeted with critical acclaim across the board.

Many critics considered it a nod to old school metal, which makes sense to Ojeda.

“We were all raised on the later 80’s and early 90’s thrash movement that came from the Bay Area, like Anthrax, Megadeth, Metallica and Testament,” he said. “Those bands had the epic songs. They soloed like crazy and had some really great gallops.”

Of course, Byzantine isn’t the average metal band. Ojeda and Rohrbough trade off riffs that evoke not only thrash but also jazz, and the guitar solos ooze with Vai-like virtuosity.

Possibly the most interesting aspect is the vocal approach. Instead of bellowing like a grizzly bear, Ojeda fronts the band with the style of 80’s metal singers like Chuck Billy from Testament and Phil Anselmo from Pantera, whom he cites as influences.

“When I first started singing around the age of 17 or 18, I was trying to emulate them,” Ojeda said. “I see no reason to front a band if I can’t throw some singing in.”

Recently the band replaced bassist Adams with Skip Cromer and have since recorded a new album entitled “…And They Shall Take Up Serpents”. Due out on July 12, Ojeda promises it to be an album that will please most fans of metal.

“The production is far superior (to “The Fundamental Component,”)Ojeda said. “The heavy parts are heavier, the melodic parts are more melodic. There’s no filler on this one, and I think people will dig it.”

The band will hit the road through most of the summer, touring with Eyehategod in June and then joining up with Six Feet Under in July. Look for them to be in Port Huron on June 13 and Grand Rapids on June 14.

As he has made metal his lifestyle, Ojeda is

photo from Byzantine1.com/used with permission

Mountaineer Rock: Lead singer Chris Ojeda of West Virginia rock band ‘Byzantine’ performs in a recent concert. Byzantine has been together for five years and is rising to the top of the metal scene. Their new album, entitled “...And They Shall Take Up Serpants,” is scheduled to be released on July 12. also eager to encourage those looking to do the same.

“Don’t let people tell you that you can’t do this,” he said. “It’s really cool to get out there and play rock and roll for a living.”

For more information about Byzantine, visit their website at www.byzantine1.com and make sure to check out their new album when it hits stores July 12.

Q: What was the hardest part about planning the graduation

May 20, 2005

walking order and seating ?

A: Getting all of the cards out and back was the hardest part .

And for the seating we tried our best to seat people next to who they are friends with.

Beth Drago, senior

a little more SQUALL

B

Section

Walking away with awards and acquaintances Seniors Kim

Evanski and Beth Drago decide to end high school the same way they came in: with each other

Photo by Sarah Craft

BFFs: Passing out graduation day walking request forms, seniors Beth Drago and Kim Evanski share a laugh.

Sarah Craft editor in chief

Ever since they can remember, seniors Beth Drago and Kim Evanski have attended graduation and watched best friends accept their high school diplomas together.

This year was going to be different.

“It was a lot of work for everyone to organize the graduation ceremony,” assistant principal Andrea Glynn said. “We decided it would be much more efficient, and things would run much smoother if we just had students walk in alphabetical order.”

But administrators heard some complaints about this idea.

“We’ve been best friends forever, and we have been planning on walking together at graduation since almost fifth grade,” Evanski said.

“When we heard we weren’t going to be able to walk together, we were

like, ‘No way, not our senior year.’”

After listening to students’ concerns, Glynn said she made a compromise: if students organized walking and seating arrangements at graduation, they could walk with whomever they wanted.

Instead of waiting for someone else to step up, Drago and Evanski were the first to volunteer. But that was only the beginning.

According to the girls, they had a lot to organize. They received a list of seniors from the office, sorted through who was and was not walking at graduation and passed out cards to every senior so they could write who they were walking with.

“It was so much work,” Evanski said.

“Yeah, this was probably the most work I’ve done my senior year,” Drago said laughing. “And it wasn’t even for a class or anything. It was so hard to get a hold of every single

senior and see who they were walking with. Especially when there were problems.”

And there were problems.

At the beginning of the year, senior Alex Gardner said he promised to walk with senior Clint Houck. But later in the year, Gardner promised two other people.

“Yeah, it got a little messy, I guess,” Gardner said. “I became really good friends with (senior) Alex Goss, and she was really sad one day when she was telling me about how all of her friends had already planned on walking with each other, so I told her I would walk with her.”

Then Gardner said he was talking to senior Jenna Stewart, who was in a similar situation as Goss, and he told her he would be her walking partner at graduation.

When the time came for Drago and Evanski to collect the note cards, they found that three people said

they were walking with Gardner.

“It ended up working out OK,” he said. “I did end up walking with Clint because he was the first person I told, and the girls found other people to walk with.”

But besides having more than one person to walk with, there were also students in the opposite situation.

Instead of arranging a friend to escort at graduation, senior Jarred Dillen said he didn’t care. So Evanski and Drago matched him up with someone who also didn’t care.

“When someone says they don’t care who they walk with and they think it’s dumb that we’re putting so much work into this, we’re just going to stick them with some one who said the same thing,” Evanski said. “A lot of people don’t really care who they walk with right now, but they will when they’re walking across the gym; they’re going to be glad to have their friend next to them.”

Haackeer

Junior suspended for 10 days for misuse of technology Sitting in a dark room with only a few others around, junior Spencer Ryan did something that would change his future.

In the last issue The Squall published an article about hacking and changing grades. This article along with a photo illustration, sparked an administrative investigation into the district’s computer network security, and more specifically, the folder with all the grades of every student.

A few hours later principal Pat Little spoke to Spencer about the photo illustration and the information in the article.

“As of right now, I’m suspended for seven days,” Spencer said.

I never did anything with the fold“I have 18 hours worth of comers I had access to. It was just so The munity service to replace three of the original 10 suspension days, Squall could get a picture for the and I can never touch one of the photo illustration. school’s computers again. I was questioned about the pictures, the way it was obtained and the -Spencer Ryan, methods involved.” junior The image accompanying the article showed Spencer sitting at a computer with the folder where each teacher’s grades were open on the monitor.

Although the picture was labeled a photo illustration and had been manipulated in Adobe Photoshop, Spencer did use a password he had obtained to access the folder from another computer.

“I never did anything with the folders I had access to,” he said. “It was just so (The Squall) could get a picture for the photo illustration.”

Spencer said that his punishment was based on two level three offenses.

The first offense was for misuse of technology, and the second offense was for theft.

“Both are level three offenses,” Spencer said. “I had my first offense which would be a one day suspension. Then

Ten day suspension doled out to Spencer Ryan too extreme, father says.

Kendall Goode photo manager

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they have me with theft for being in pos- word to gain access to the grades folder.

Many different teachers, students session of a teacher’s password which is my second offense or a three day sus- and staff members said aides had access pension. With simple math that obvi- to teacher’s passwords before the article ously doesn’t add up to 10 days or even was published. None of them would go on record due to fear of reprisals. seven.”

Spencer also said he has gotten growAnd Spencer does not understand why his punishment is so great for what ing support from teachers, staff and he did. community members who think his pun“I brought to the public’s attention ishments are too extreme. a flaw in the system’s security, that was “I seem to have gotten a lot of supknown by the administration for weeks,” port from teachers, telling me that what he said.

I did showed another problem that the However, Little said administrators district had,” he said. “(The support) is had no prior knowledge of this prob- just further agreement that there are lem. questionable practices within the ad“Previous to the article ministration.” there were just rumors with Although Spencer’s parI understand no details,” Little said. “No ents think what he did was wrong, they are planning to details that could be substanconsequences for tiated.” appeal the punishment.

Spencer. He made Little also said the hand“I think we should get book states that two level an error in judgea little leeway,” Pat Ryan, three offenses would add ment, but he didn’t Spencer’s dad, said. “The up to four days suspension, current disciplinary action is cause any harm. but the handbook allows for two and a half times what the some liberties in punishing The length of his handbook says.” students.

Little said doesn’t have suspension and “The clause allows for the any problems with the plans community service for appeal. school to intensify the consequence if (the infraction) is is absurd.

“It’s their due process on a grander scale,” he said. right,” he said. “It’s a healthy “I think (his punishment) is process of student rights.”

-Pat Ryan, appropriate.”

In addition to the current concerned father It seems the problems punishment, Spencer said his don’t just lie with Spencer but also an class schedule for next year has to be alover-trusting teaching staff. tered since part of his punishment preMany students who have been teach- vents him from using any of the school’s er’s aides say teachers have given them computers. Also for the rest of high their password which makes it easier to school he isn’t allowed to be a teacher do certain tasks for the teacher. aide or take any class with computer “The teachers shouldn’t have done teacher Joe Romeo. that,” Little said. “We made it very clear “I understand consequences for Spenthat it was inappropriate.” cer,” Pat Ryan said. “He made an error in Because of the article each teacher judgment, but he didn’t cause any harm. was given a new password to prevent The length of his (suspension and comany students who had a teacher’s passmunity service) is absurd.”

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厄In the Dexter Handbook: A first offence of misuse of technology is a one day suspension.

But in Ryan’s case administrators decided to lenghten the punishment to 10 days due to the seriousness of the act.

Parent varies up the drama program with third production Drama students put on a third show for the 2004-2005 school year.

Sarah Craft editor in chief

With only three weeks to prepare, the drama club’s third production of the year, “The Last Dance of Dr. Disco,” was definitely a challenge, according to guest director Francine Chomic.

Traditionally, the drama club has put on a fall play and a spring musical produced by teacher and drama director Harry Wilcox, but this year Chomic decided she wanted to do a production herself.

“After two years of working with the kids in other shows, I got to see how talented they were and that made me eager to direct,” Chomic said.

Instead of doing a full-length production, though, Chomic decided to put on a dinner theater show. And instead of performing in the CPA, the show went up on May 6 and 7 in Mill Creek’s Landing.

But there were some problems,

and the show almost didn’t go on.

“Tickets weren’t selling well at all,” sophomore Ben James, who played a detective, said. “We needed a minimum of 60 people to come see the show because otherwise the caterers wouldn’t make the food for us. The tickets were expensive, and I think that’s why they were so hard to sell, but they needed to be because of the dinner included in the cost.”

After advertising as much as they could, James said they finally sold enough tickets to do the production, and the show went on as planned.

With only three weeks after the spring production of “Blood Brothers,” there were also problems getting some of the drama regulars like senior Tom Szymanski to audition for the dinner theater.

“I was glad to have Blood Brothers as my last show,” he said. “It was a great show, and I am ready to move on. If the circumstances were a little different, maybe start at least a week after “Blood Brothers” ends, I might have considered being involved. But

Photo by Francyn Chomic

Freeze frame: The cast of “The Last Dance of Dr. Disco” stops for a photo shoot. Chomic was “eager to direct” the kids after seeing their talent.

I think we were all a little tired of drama and needed a break.”

But that didn’t go for everyone.

As a matter of fact, many students involved in the musical were also involved in the dinner theater. Even though James played the milkman and police officer in “Blood Brothers” he said he was glad there was another production to be involved in.

“It wasn’t that much of a problem for me,” James said. “I’m pretty much dedicated to drama. Whatever

they want, I’ll do it.”

In the end, Chomic said the production went well, but because of the difficulties, she said she’s not sure if there will be a third production next year.

“It was a fun experience, especially for the kids,” she said. “I have directed other shows before, but this was hard for me to handle everything on top of directing. All that matters is that the kids did a fabulous job, and the audience loved the show.”

Photo by Francyn Chomic

Disco Diva : Freshman Brittany Batell delivers her lines in front of a packed crowd at Mill Creek.

8

the Squall

opinions

Friday, May 20, 2005

Politics inhabits Capitol Hill, Jelly Bean Mill Thomas Leonard opinions editor

Grains of Salt

After presidential elections politics supposedly winds down for a couple years. Unless a midterm election sparks interest, no one notices Washington goings-on.

But this year could be different.

Not only is politics intensifying, but churches, universities and other organizations are assuming more political traits.

In our own district the school

board has been attacked for their budget-keeping. The interim administration has waded through murky waters in their discipline of junior Spencer Ryan.

In the US Congress, nominations for high-level positions in the court system and at the United Nations are under dispute. The politics of hate is alive and viciously kicking.

Ten judges nominated for various federal courts were nominated early in President Bush’s first-term. Three have even dropped out.

Accusations against Charles Pick-

ering from Mississippi made him out to be against civil rights when he is actually a supporter of civil rights.

While Republicans and Democrats bicker, a super-majority vote has been called for and a filibuster threatened (for four years) because of the nominees’ religious views.

Think if McDonald’s waited four years when deciding who to hire.

Outrageous.

John Bolton, nominated as the ambassador to the United Nations, is currently the Undersecretary of State for Arms Control and International Security. This means he already has been approved once by the Senate. But as soon as President Bush

nominated him for the UN position, Bolton received coordinated attacks from senators directed by their activist colleagues.

House Majority Leader Tom Delay has received much of the same trash-slinging as others. While he has a good chance of taking a swiftkick in the derrière due to ethics and funding scandals, many accusations against Delay apply to any politician.

Which goes to show that politics doesn’t match up to the glorious videos of Washington, DC as viewed in American Government class with JR. This is still your grandfather’s politics. But now a twist is added.

Joseph Ratzinger, now known as Pope Benedict XVI, wasn’t even elected when various international pundits warned the Catholic Church to modernize its views or face extinction. Morality, gender, multiculturalism swirled around the Vatican like an angry squall.

Now that “God’s Rottweiler” sits firmly in his Pope mobile, critics pillory him for restating Biblical viewpoints held unchanged for nearly 2,000 years by the Catholic Church.

Politics that invaded Catholicism from inside and out has wheedled its way into the workplace, corporations and the military. Viewpoints are no longer hidden and goods and services

are not traded without first knowing the recipient’s view on social security and harpooning sperm whales in the Arctic.

Even the president of Harvard has received flak for highlighting the differences between male and female psyches.

It appears that our generation will require more than a few brave souls.

Government needs people to make a difference and so will any lemon-jelly bean-making industry.

While most of you know government from the news, that news comes without a face or a name. You now know that hate politics is coming soon; no, it has already arrived.

Report Card time arrives for DHS Technology and intangibles receive high marks, policies take lowest grade N00b Pwn3r Seth Porinsky staff writer

Over the years, I have received way too many grades from Dexter High School, so I finally decided to grade them in return. This is the grade I give for every aspect of our school on an A-E scale.

Illustration by Teri Chiado

Importance is in the family Teri Chiado photo editor

Happy Tree Friends

I remember being the new class in high school four years ago: walking through the long halls as if they would never end, the overwhelming chaos during passing time, the crowds of gossip, the laughter throughout the school, the excitement and agony of the first day of high school.

Now those long hallways are getting shorter and They’ve brought me the days are passing faster. into this world and given me It’s the end. as much as they possibly can This is the last article I will while I am here, yet I don’t ever write for The give enough appreciation.

Squall, and I want to leave behind the biggest thing I have learned in my four years of high school.

Don’t lose your family. Out of everything I have learned, this is the most important lesson I could even begin to explain.

Out of everything a person goes through in life, changes and growing up and pain and excitement, your family is the only golden thing.

A family is the closest bond anyone could have; who would want to lose it?

Friends and significant others will

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come and go, but a family is unity.

A family is a bond you will have with no others.

And sometimes that bond isn’t so great.

That’s why my family is the most important thing in my life.

My family, along with a plethora of others’, isn’t perfect.

No family can be. But we have fought our struggles and shared our enjoyments.

My family has been there for me when I messed up or when I made them proud.

If I was failing a class, they were there to comfort me and work things out.

They took me to my rehab meetings last year and always made sure I made a doctor’s appointment.

But now that I am graduating and will be on my own soon; I am losing my family.

There’s chaos every day and stress almost every night.

Our unit is breaking down and falling apart. We are fighting about petty little things and letting that get in our way.

We are being mean to each other and saying things we regret to one another and our bond is slipping away.

And it feels like there’s nothing I can do.

My family has watched me and my siblings grow up.

They have been there for me when I was sick as a child, parent-teacher

conferences, breakups, feeding me, giving me a place to live.

They’ve brought me into this world and given me as much as they possibly can while I am here, yet I don’t give enough appreciation.

I don’t thank them for everything.

I don’t tell them I appreciate all that they have done for me.

I don’t give them enough credit for helping me become the person I am.

I don’t even know if I show my love clearly enough.

I’ve messed a lot of things up and lost a lot of trust from my family because of stupidity on my part.

I was immature and naive and just wanted to go out and have a good time, no matter what the cost.

And when I got in trouble with the law, my family was still there by my side, even though I hurt them and I broke their trust.

They still came to see me every week when I was locked up in juvy.

Most of the kids in there had parents who never showed up, not even once.

But now I am paying for my actions.

I have to let go of the most important thing in my life.

It’s time for me to fly.

And I want to tell the world to always keep their family close.

No one will ever be able to replace them.

They’re the only people you have in life.

When I grow old and have a family of my own, I would want them to know they’re the most important thing and that they will always come first in my life.

Academics: B. When a student has the desire to learn, there are always enough challenges at DHS. However, if students don’t take that initiative, there really is nothing forcing them to do any work.

Sure, there is a basic list of courses one must complete before leaving high school, which is why academics didn’t receive a poorer grade.

Teachers: A-. While there are no shortage of teachers who seem to hate going to class more than the students, there are also a good number of teachers willing to help.

It’s obvious that the vast majority of teachers in this school are willing to put in extra time, if necessary, to help students achieve their goals. I am pretty proud of the staff at Dexter High School; they deserve high grades.

Administration: B. Overall, there have not been too many problems with the administration in my 12 year stay in the Dexter school district. Staff such as former principal Glen Stevenson and assistant principal Andrea Glynn have fought for students rights and kept a smile on my face. For this I applaud them.

Policies: D-. Like any other school, Dexter has basic rules that are enforced. Some of our local rules go a bit too far though, methinks. Often it seems that figures of authority like to abuse their power.

Perhaps this is true everywhere, but being told by a para-pro that I can’t pull my car into the visitor lot after school to avoid walking another 400 meters in the blistering cold is absolutely ridiculous.

The no coat rule, tardy policy, as well as some suspensions have been distributed across the boundary of ridiculousness.

Sports: C. Again, there is a wide

range of grades, depending on the sport. A lot of sports are extremely inviting to n00bs, encouraging people of any skill level to join.

Other sports, however, demand that students spend their lives preparing for next season. While training and staying in shape during the off-season is necessary for these teams to remain competitive, there should be opportunities for people who don’t have that kind of time to commit to participate in sports as well.

Some students are forced to turn to other recreation leagues, such as the Ann Arbor Rec. & Ed. Program.

We should have these opportunities in Dexter.

Technology: A. Dexter schools are definitely top of the line when it comes to equipment. With a large enough budget to afford great plenty and a staff with teachers such as the Great Dagg to back it, you’re hard pressed to find a better school in this department.

Location: B+. Because Dexter is somewhat lacking in the entertainment department, it is very fortunate that we live close to Ann Arbor. A mall, many movie theaters and any restaurant you could possibly want are within 30 minutes of driving.

Also, nearby Washtenaw Community College offers courses that students can’t take in high school.

There are even a few highlights downtown that make hanging out in Dexter bearable as well, such as the DQ, Best Entertainment and the recent addition of Foggy Bottom. Our library is pretty killer, too.

Intangibles: A. The intangibles surrounding our small town are what makes it great. Events such as our award-winning Prom, school assemblies, a number of clubs that students and parents have taken the initiative to start (and who could forget The Squall) really are the icing atop the cake.

Overall: B. It was a pleasure growing up in Dexter Community Schools, and I would hope my children are afforded many of the same opportunities that I had here.

For those who strive to succeed, there is ample opportunity to do so here. Thank you, Dexter, for all of the times, all of the years and all of the tears.

There are prisoners roaming these halls: controlled boyfriends Kyle Muse opinions editor

The Blingin’ Continues

As I walk down the hall, my ears are met with an unpleasant, obnoxious noise.

The noise comes from all directions, high and low, loud and soft.

As I stop to figure it out, it’s hard to decipher its origin. Now, I finally do figure it out.

It is the sound of balls and chains dragging on the floor behind many people in this high school.

The warden may not be a familiar face to all, but to those chain wear-

ers, it’s a controlling girlfriend.

Not only is it a self-induced life sentence, it has become a disease.

Late night phone calls when all these boys want to do is go to bed, sacrificed weekends due to maximum security, not to mention the lack of alone time that these prisoners face. It is no wonder they always appear unhappy.

It seems odd to me that these girls are often years younger than their boyfriends.

Yet they have such control over their boyfriends.

It appears these girls have the power to make their boyfriends do

whatever they want for themselves. til next fall, and even then it is only For some, it’s ruining an impor- temporary. tant year, a year when friends beIt’s hard for me to understand come important and the end of high how someone can treat a signifischool apcant other with proaches. such selfishness I am not without feeling an The warden may not against relaounce of guilt. tionships by Jealousy can be a familiar face to all, but to any means, destroy lives, those chain wearers it’s a connor am I a seand sometimes it nior yet. But does. trolling girlfriend. Not only is in having seSome seniors it a self-induced life sentence, nior friends I are being conhave come to trolled and kept it has become a disease. the conclusion from living up that it is imthe one year that portant to pull together in your final they have to enjoy themselves and be year, not to spread out and go your with friends without the pressures of own ways. applying to college and trying to get The separating doesn’t come un- good grades to get into college.

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It is a shame to take that away from someone because you are still underclassmen and don’t understand the importance and the “senioritis” you face, even as a junior.

What appalls me most are these seniors that allow younger girls to walk all over them.

Not only that, but the freshmen change what the seniors had before they meeting.

Think about the friends you have lost and the times you have missed out on.

When you graduate in a few weeks and head off to college, the students staying behind can always count on your presence considering that all of your girlfriends have a few years left of high school.

The only way the underclass-

men will not be seeing you is if your girlfriend learns to drive. And even then it is questionable whether she will actually drive or just wait at home for you.

She will wait at home just so you will make that drive home to see her.

These friendless, chained prisoners wandering around create an uneasy environment.

No one knows who will be affected next and who is at risk.

I just hope that no one will ever have to lose what these men have lost this year and that is their senior year.

I also hope that one day these girls, who see no problem with what they are doing, realize what they have taken and regret it.

Friday, May 20, 2005

THE ALL

the Squall

SQUALL CALL

opinions

Super Principal

New principal needs many attributes to fit students’ standards

9

THE SQUALL STAFF EDITOR-IN-CHIEF: Sarah Craft MANAGING EDITOR: Michelle Svetkoff

EDITORS

What makes a good principal? Various committees have asked this question four times in the last 10 years at Dexter High School. In the last 10 years we had Dave Messner, Robert Frasier, Glen Stevenson and Pat Little all running the school at different times.

When The Squall thinks of a good principal we think of someone who should be easy to get along with, experienced, personable, cheerful, relates well with the staff and not quick to judge.

A principal who is easy to get along with talks to students when it’s not about school or even necessary.

If for some reason you are sent down to the office, you don’t want to be scared. You want to know that you are going to be able to talk to the principal and reason with them. You want to know that they will understand where you’re coming from and not jump to conclusions.

When it comes to picking a principal, experience is also a key factor. An inexperienced principal will make a few mistakes. It is a natural thing.

When you are learning how to do a new job, it is all right to make mistakes as long as your intentions are good and you acknowledge that you have made a mistake.

That’s where experience comes in. An experienced educator knows that they do not need to gain respect through discipline or showing authority but by respecting the students and staff, making the correct decisions and not overreacting to events that do not need to be magnified by making a big deal out of them.

Both experience and friendliness are key people skills The Squall sees as traits of a good principal. Nobody likes a principal that makes them uncomfortable.

A good principal is easy to talk to, easy going and cheerful.

A good principal is able to control students without having to enforce strict rules and high standards but by being able to control the school with respect. If you respect someone you don’t want to disappoint them.

On the other hand, when there is a principal who is unforgiving, unreasonable and on a power trip students tend to be turned off. Students tend to lose respect for that person.

We hope new principal Patrick Little will keep these characteristics in mind and be the principal students, staff and community members need at DHS.

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: Hilary McCown

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

STAFF WRITERS David Ager Matt Gauntlett Robert Kuzon TJ LaRosa Daniel Monson Seth Porinsky Jonathan Williamson AD DESIGNER: Eric Wilkinson CARTOONIST: Jared Myers Illustration by Jared Myers

ADVISER: Rod Satterthwaite

POLICY:

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.

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.

Illustration by Kendall Goode

Letters To The Editor Junior asks fellow students to take care of their school Dear Editor, What is the horrid, nasty, icky-infuriting word that throws me off the edge?

Vandalism. That’s right. Vandalism.

It makes me want to box someone’s

ears when I see it. It is well and good to play a senior prank i.e steal the rock and maybe put it back later. But what induces feelings of vomiting is, you guessed it, vandalism.

I was greatly upset at seeing some of the plastic cases that cover the thermostats, crushed. That is just stupid. Stupid, stupid, stupid!

Also, later that same week, at the bus entrance stairwell, the large beehiveshaped light has been broken as well.

Yes, there is such a thing as a mistake.

E-MAIL: letters@thesquall.com Oops! I threw my pop, and it happened to hit the light (sarcasm), but that can be easily told to an authority and cleaned up.

Yet, the oops, I accidently took a large, heavy object and broke open this hard, plastic, nearly indestructible piece of school property doesn’t fly.

Just so we’re clear, students: vandalism is not cool. Hey, we’re poor enough as it is guys. We don’t need more things to fix in this school. Let’s rally ‘round each other and keep this school a little

cleaner, a little more unified and a little less vandalized.

Hey, we’ve all got at least four long years in this place. Who wants to go to a broken high school? Lets look at the repercussions of years of vandalism: broken sinks, toilets, lights, chairs. The list goes on.

I’m doing my part to keep this school clean. Do yours.

Sincerely, Joan Wolfe, junior

WEB SITE: www.thesquall.com ADDRESS: The Squall Dexter High School 2200 N. Parker Rd. Dexter MI, 48130

Dreads in the hall What features do you look for in a good principal?

Hunter Lyons, freshman

Rob Zalucki, junior

Shannon Wiseley, senior

“Easy, nice.”

“Someone that understands the students.”

“Doesnʼt suspend for bad reasons like computer hacking”

Sarah Rademaker, sophomore “Someone who wants whatʼs best for the students and the school.”

Krista McDonnough, English teacher “I look for someone who has integrity and is fair. Also someone who wont just sit in the office but interact with the kids.”

10

the Squall Friday, May 20 2005

sports

Will the Pistons repeat history?

Lee Hoggard sports editor

Thursday, April 28, 2005

Pop Yo’ Colla’ Can the Pistons repeat? That is the question many sports fans are asking.

The Pistons seem to be rolling through the first round of the post season and look very strong.

If the Pistons are going to repeat, it will happen because of several key reasons.

One being the strong defensive play of Big Ben Wallace. Wallace was recently named defensive player of the year for the third time.

Wallace averaged 12.2 rebounds this season and had 176 blocks. He also averaged 9.7 points per game.

Wallace once again proved why he is the most dominant defensive player in the league.

If the Pistons are going to make it back to the finals, his strong defensive play will be one of the core reasons as to why the Pistons made it back.

Another reason is young up and coming star Tayshaun Prince. Prince averaged 14.7 points per game this season, 5.3 rebounds per game and 3.0 assists per game.

He has been referred to as the MVP of the team by his fellow team mates this season, giving them consistently strong play on both ends of the floor.

Prince will be a key factor if the pistons are to make it back to the finals.

Strong guard play to go a long with great defensive play is key to the Pistons making a strong run in the playoffs.

Chauncy Billups and Richard “Rip” Hamilton both must control the speed of the game and not be afraid to put the ball on the floor, for the Pistons to be able to make a run deep into the playoffs.

Photo from Detroit Free Press/KRT

Career Playoff Stats SEASON TEAM

G MIN

REB

2001-02 Det. 2002-03 Det.

10 408 17 722

161 277 Photo by Jenny Heldt

2003-04 Det. 2004-05 Det

23 924 328 6+ 237 76

Stats from Cbssports.com

Billups is averaging 16.4 ppg this season.

He also is giving the team 5.8 assists per game. Hamilton is averaging about 18.7 ppg and 4.9 assists per game.

The last key to the Pistons deep run into the finals is the Miami Heat.

The way they have been playing they pretty much control their own destiny.

If Shaq and Dwayne Wade play the way they have played during the first round of the playoffs, it will be really tough for the Pistons to get past them.

But if the Pistons can take Shaq out of the picture, like in the NBA finals last year, they will be in good position to take the series from the Heat.

The Pistons are prime contenders to repeat. It should be an exciting series.

I would recommend keeping your eyes glued to the TV set and not miss a minute of the action.

Starting the Race: Freshmen Ellen Riehle stands ready for the start at Ypsilanti Invitational track meet. “I run track to keep in shape for cross country and it helps me stay focused on my goals. It also keeps my competitive drive in top gear,” she said. Riehle will be one of the top returning runners next year.

Davenport to fill coaching position Former high school track star fulfills her dream of coaching girls cross country.

Jenny Heldt featues editor After getting cortisone shots in her feet, eighth grade social studies teacher Colleen Davenport is back to running and more than ready to take over the high school women’s cross country team.

With former coach Amy Wolfgang moving on after coaching for four years and starting a family, the position opened up.

“I was out for four months and fiDavenport has been involved with track since middle school and started nally was able to start running again running cross country her senior year after getting a cortisone shot in my foot.” in high school.

Despite the injury Davenport has “I played basketball for six years,” she said. “I basically started distance come back full throttle. running my senior One of her proudest accomyear of high school I started distance running my plishments was … and have run senior year of high school … and running the Deever since.” troit Marathon.

Davenport con- have run ever since. never tinued running in “I’ve college. run for so long -Colleen Davenport, 8th grade teacher She attended U and felt so exof M and earned hausted as I did her varsity letter there. when I ran that,” she said. “But it felt Davenport ran there for two years good to have challenged myself with until she developed plantar fascitis. such a big race.”

“It’s where the tendon that makes With her sights set on coaching up your arch pulls away from the high school cross-country, she has bone in your heel,” she said. managed to keep her own goals in After a very lengthy recovery peri- sight. od Davenport didn’t hesitate to jump “My next goal is to qualify for the back in and continue training.

Boston Marathon,” she said. “Within

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the next couple of years …”

Davenport has many of her own accomplishments behind her from her high school days.

“I was sixth in the class B state meet in 1998 for cross country,” she said. “I was all-state and medalled in the class B track state meet in the mile, two mile, 800, and four by 400,” she continued.

“In 1999 we won the four by 800 meter relay.”

Having such a great high school career and an inspirational coach pushed her to apply for this job.

“I plan on coaching for many, many years,” she said. “It’s been my dream to coach high school girls cross country since my freshman year of college.

I had a very inspirational coach in high school who really believed in me and I want to coach like he did. Now that dream is coming true. I am very excited.”

Student restores 1971 Challenger Eric Wilkinson ad designer

photo by Eric Wilkinson

Fixin’ it up:Sophomore Matt Mabry’s 1971 Dodge Challenger is one of the oldest cars in the school’s parking lot.

Mabry and his father restored the car, which they bought from a Kruse auction a two years ago.

For the past few weeks, there has been a vehicle parked in the back that is hard to ignore.

Sophomore Matt Mabry’s Hemi Orange 1971 Dodge Challenger is one of the oldest in the school lot, yet is in much better condition than many cars half its age.

Dodge was one of the last car companies to seriously take part in the “muscle car competition.”

Though when it introduced the fierce Challenger in 1970, it held strong to its spot in the races.

In 1970 the first Challenger was introduced, with many option choices, ranging from a basic slant-six engine to the ever-feared 426 HEMI. Challengers were built on a Plymouth Barracuda frame, but the wheelbase was extended two inches because of the many complaints of passengers, about the lack of interior space.

Mabry said he and his father bought the Challenger at a Kruse auction about two years ago.

“We found it with a ton of parts in

the trunk and inside, and no one else wanted to deal with the hassle of it, so we bought it for $3000,” Mabry said.

They immediately began restoration; going through boxes of parts and wiring harnesses, they were at first at a loss of where to begin.

Once they got started though, Maybry said the restoration quickly fell into place. From welding in new floor panels to sending the dash to California for restoration.

Classic Mopar parts (Plymouth, Dodge, Chrysler) are not easy to find in reproduction, unlike many Ford and GM parts.

This makes restoration of a Mopar item not only more difficult, but considerably more expensive.

Because of this restorers are forced to buy complete cars for minor things, or NOS (New, Old Stock) items which usually cost a small fortune.

The car, which currently packs a mild 272, has an automatic transmission.

Within the next few years Mabry and his father plan on switching to a manual, backed by a 340 power

plant.

“I enjoy driving a stick shift, and would like the Challenger to be one, but if the automatic gets me through high school, then I can wait and switch it over then.” Mabry said.

A Dodge Challenger like Mabry’s goes 0-60 in 5.9 seconds, and could out run many other cars right off a show room floor.

From time to time, Mabry and his father. Take it to the tracks and run a quarter mile.

“Our average time is about 11.5 for a quarter miles,” Mabry said. “Which is pretty good for a 272.”

The car, for the most part is complete now.

Although from time to time Mabry and his dad do make minor adjustments or replace minor trim pieces.

After much work restoring the interior of the car, taking care of any rust and going through the main drivetrain to get it running, Mabry said he is happy with the final product.

“I’m the only kid with a classic muscle car in the school lot,” Mabry said. “And I think that’s pretty cool.”

the Squall Friday, May 20 2005

sports

11

Womens soccer team wins two against Saline, Lincoln Biggest win against Saline proves that they are a force to be reckoned with Lee Hoggard sports editor

Dexter vs. Saline Dexter and Saline faced off in a battle on May 5 which would prove that the these two schools are the giants of womens soccer in the SEC.

The game started off very back and forth. Both teams played strong defense in the first half.

The score at the end of halftime ended up 0-0.

However play started to pick up in the second half.

Both teams continued to play good defense throughout the entire game.

But early in the second half freshmen Kaitlen Henderson was able to sneak a shot past the Saline goaltender.

“It was a great shot,” senior captain Kim Evanski said. “She got loose and put a great shot in the top corner.”

Both teams still continued to play strong defense despite Dexter taking the 1-0 lead.

But midway through the second half, Dexter again capitalized on a great opportunity.

Freshmen Shantel Daratony scored off an assist from junior Jenny Cowen.

“Jenny made a great pass to me and I was able to get off a good shot,” Daratony said.

Dexter was able to knock of Saline 2-0.

Evanski said, “This win was very important for our season. I think it was our biggest win yet this season.”

Dexter vs Lincoln Dexter faced off against Lincoln on Tuesday, May 10. The Dreads controlled the pace for the entire game.

They beat the Rail splitters 41. Freshman Caitlen Henderson started the scoring.

“I was able to get open and put it in the net,” Henderson said.

Shantel Daratony also scored, followed by a goal from Junior Kelly Hughes. The scoring ended with a goal from freshmen Katie Ryan.

Sophomore Liz Umstead allowed only one goal.

photo by Lee Hoggard

Stretching it out: Freshmen Magaly Cantu, sophomore Liz Umstead, and other teammates stretch before practice. Umstead scored on May 10 against Lincoln.

photo by Wendy Holmes

Serving’ it up: Senior Clint Houck swings at a ball during a tennis match on May 10. Houck is the No. 1 singles player on the team.

Mens tennis loses to Saline but defeats Lincoln 8-0 Consecutive matches end with two different outcomes against Saline, Lincoln

team’s record 6-3 and 2-2 in the SEC. Holmes said, “This next week we have Lincoln who we have beat every year since they have had a team, so we will be preparing for that match.”

Dexter vs Lincoln The mens tennis team faced off Raleigh Holmes against Lincoln on May 10, a team morale manager they have never lost to. The team kept up tradition 8-0, they swept entire match.

Dexter vs Saline The No. 4 doubles team of sophFor the past six years the men’s omore Matt Sanchez and freshman tennis team had been trying to beat Kyle Debruycker had their first win the Saline Hornets. Although they together.

“At the beginning of the season didn’t accomplish their goal on Thursday, May 5, there were some I was switching around the doubles outstanding performances put out partners so it took awhile for Matt by the players according to coach and Kyle to get used to each other,” Holmes said. “I was proud of them; Wendy Holmes.

“We know that Saline is always they came together as a team and going to have a good team, but that won the match 6-0, 6-0.”

Junior Sebastian Gerstner and never discourages us from trying sophomore Frank to beat them,” coach Dufek make up the No. Wendy Holmes said.

1 doubles team. They “I was really imnot only had a strong pressed with a few of We know that Samatch against Lincoln my players. They did line is always go(6-0, 6-3) but they really well.” have the second best Saline won 6-2 with ing to have a good record on the team. the winning Dexter team, but that “Sebastian and players being senior Frank work really well never discourages Alex Gardner at No. t o g e t h e r,” H o l m e s 4 singles (6-1, 6-0), us from trying to said. “They have had and the No. 3 doubles beat them. some tough matches team of seniors Robut have only lost drigo Tames and Seth twice, making their Porinsky with a score record 10-2,” of 6-4, 7-6.

Wendy Holmes, “It’s always nice to “Alex has been dotennis coach have a really strong ing really well this No. 1 doubles team, season,” Holmes said. and that’s exactly “He has only lost one what they are.” match. It’s nice to The No. 1 singles know we can count on him to bring in a win almost every player, senior Clint Houck, also had a good match (7-6, 6-2) Holtime.”

The best match of the day was mes said.

“Clint started off a little shaky that of Edgard Curmina at No. 2 singles (2-6, 6-2, 5-7) Holmes in the first set, but after he won the said, “It was an exactly even match tiebreaker, he started to play with up. Both of them knew each other more precision.”

The team’s record is now 7-3 weaknesses and strengths.

“I’m really proud of Edgard. He and 3-2 in the SEC. Their next and last match is never stopped trying.”

“Although he didn’t win, I feel against Chelsea on May 17.

They played Chelsea at an invilike he did because he played to the tational earlier in the season which best of his ability.”

The loss to Saline made the Dexter took first at.

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photo by Sarah Craft

Waiting for the bus: Next year the sports teams won’t have enough busses for transportation to away events according to Athletic Director John Robinson.

Director of Transportation Robert Poor says the district is unable to continue to afford school busses and Getaway busses due to recent budget cuts.

District struggles to find funds for transporting student teams Growing district increases sports teams and lessens available transportation

district are needed at 2:25 for their regular runs,” Robinson said. “But they are also needed at the same time for all these different sports.”

If the school busses can’t cover the sporting event, Robinson said he looks into renting a Getaway bus for the team.

Raleigh Holmes But with recent budget cuts, he said it morale manager has been increasingly difficult to find the money to provide these busses.

According to Poor budget cuts are a big As the district grows more students try part of the recent problem of not having out for sports creating larger teams.

And larger teams have made getting enough busses. “In order to provide all busses to transport athletic teams to their the services required we would, on occasion, need seven spare buses and as many events more difficult.

Athletic director John Robinson said, sub drivers,” he said. “We only have five “Having busses available to our sports spare buses and right now. One bus is at teams has always been a problem. Our another location for repairs and may not school has gotten bigger and we have more be back until school is out.” athletes to transport. That’s why the light As for drivers, Poor said he is trying as is suddenly being hard as he can. “All shined on the subsubstitute drivers ject.” are assigned routes,” he sad. “I and my The process of We only have five spare buses and assistant are driving trying to get a bus right now, one bus is at another loca- daily as is one of our is as follows. Robmechanics. Having inson sends out the tion for repairs and may not be back the additional bussports schedules until school is out. ses and staff would a couple of weeks ahead of time to add significantly to Robert Poor, the school bus gacosts.”

Director of Transportation rage.

How much the bus costs is a big decidDirector of ing factor for RobinTr a n s p o r t a t i o n Robert Poor looks son. “School busses at the schedule and sees if he has enough only cost $170-225 at an hourly rate, while busses or drivers to cover any of the Getaway’s cost $443 for the whole night,” events. he said. “We just don’t have that kind of “The athletic department requests money to pay Getaways anymore.” trips, and I work with them on what we Where the price really adds up for Getcan and can’t provide based on equipment away buses according to Robinson is when and staffing,” Poor said. “It is a collabora- the school has to get a Getaway bus for tive agreement based on needs and our short trips. “Even if the bus is just going to Chelsea, we still have to pay the full $443,” ability to provide service.”

Poor spends his time trying to work Robinson said. “If we were able to use the around the busses regular school sched- school bus it would take just about an hour ule. “It’s hard because all the busses in the to get there and back, and we would pay a

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photo by Sarah Craft

forth of that.”

If neither school nor Getaway buses can be arranged, then the parents of the athletes are permitted to drive the athletes.

“The parents have to fill out two forms to be allowed to drive the students,” Robinson said. “One is a volunteer driver information form and the other is an athletic department transportation permission slip.”

The middle school track team has over 200 people so it is impossible to get a bus for the whole team. “Busses only seat 4550 people so we would have to get four busses just for that one team,” Robinson said, “let alone trying to get buses for all the other sports going on that same day in the district.”

The middle school track team has to take turns going to their meets because taking the whole team could cost the district $2,000 for one day.

“The situation won’t get better since the district is growing and the funds shrinking,” Robinson said. “It’s great that we are getting more athletes, but it’s making the transportation situation worse.”

THE

SQUALL

See you next year

Kicked out: The girls soccer team along with other growing school teams causes troubles in terms of finding enough busses to transport students to games and tournaments.

12

photostory

Brandon Mayotte photo editor

As the Dexter Devils rugby team arrived at the Michigan Cup in Troy for the district tournament, the snow was coming down hard and the cold wind blew against the players. They began to warm up for their first game against Perrysburg.

“It was really harsh and gnarly conditions,” freshman Shane Wright said. “It was snowing and like 15 degrees. But it was a great competition.”

Wright said he wanted to play rugby the moment he found out about it.

“It sounded sweet,” he said. “My uncle did it, and whenever I see him, he shows his battle scars to me.”

According to Wright, rugby is a rough sport and that sometimes worries his parents.

“They get nervous sometimes, but that just makes me like it more because it is fun making them angry,” he said. “They tell me I should be safe and wear a helmet. I just tell them getting hurt is part of the sport ... You get to let all your anger out with violence, and it’s legal.”

Wright has even received two mild concussions but still loves the game.

The team’s first win was at the district tourna-

the Squall

Thursday, May 20 , 2005

ment, and they won both games.

“We were just ecstatic when we won,” Wright said. “We were up against teams that have been around for 10 years. We thought we would get annihilated.”

In fact, the team never expected to go to states.

“Our first practice was real goofy, and no one was expecting (to be district champions),” Wright said. “Our first actual game we got completely pounded all over the place.”

Wright said he enjoys the environment that the team creates, as well as the variety of kids on the team. “It is really cool,” he said. “No one does not like you, and anyone can make the team. There are a lot of great people on the team and junior Jon Williamson is a great captain and carries the team.”

Wright encourages people to play next year.

“It is a whole lot of fun,” he said. “You don’t need to be a big guy to play.”

The state tournament takes place on May 12 at Wylie football field.

“It is just amazing, a real zero to hero,” Wright said. “We are just a motley crew of guys who pulled together, made a team and pulled it all off.”

Thrusting into the air: At the beginning of the game, junior Matt Snyder is thrown into the air by his teammates in hopes of getting a tip on the ball. Rugby players are not allowed to touch the body of the person being thrown into the air so they instead grab onto their shorts.

Pushing forward: Senior Aaron Chooch struggles to get the end zone. Cooch scored 9 of the 29 points that game. “It’s a sweet game,” Cooch said. “We are district champions our first year out.”

He got soul: With all of his might, junior Jonathan Williamson makes a dash to the trizone. Williamson fell after a player from Forest Hills got a hold of his shirt.

No, this is not the Heimlich maneuver: Freshman Shane Wright gets tackled from behind by a Brighton B-team player. The score was 29-10 with a Dexter win.