0607-6

Squall

Dexter High School - 2200 N. Parker Road - Dexter, Mi 48130 Mens basketball becomes part of Dexter culture, tradition and legacy

THE

Febuary 27, 2007 - Volume XVII - Issue 6 -

The Pfizer effect: The moving of Pfizer affects many families in Dexter

page 2

Dexter: Teachers’ enforcement of school rules inconsistent

page 7

Pages 8,9

Diving accident: Sean Killian loses four teeth in a diving accident, teammate recovers them

page 11

Check one, two: Teen bands amp up for the Battle, hosted by S.P.A.C.E.

page 14

2

Tuesday, February 27, 2007

The Squall

news

The

“

We really want to keep them here. It’s just the right thing to do. No one wants to move in high school.”

effect

-Principal Kit Moran

Pfizer closing puts locals in tough spot Maria Brundage photo editor

in the four years she and her husband have lived in the Ann Arbor area, but she didn’t expect a decision of this magnitude. “We knew Rachel Moir the meetings were happening on Monday,” staff writer she said, “but we expected more of the same.

We never expected they would shut the whole French teacher Kim Lund’s husband never thing down.”

Freshman Kurt Miller, whose mother is a calls her during school. So when he called her during fourth hour from his job at Pfizer on Pfizer employee, was likewise blind-sided by Monday, Jan. 22, she knew something was the announcement. wrong. “I thought someone had died,” she “I didn’t have any warning,” Miller said. said. The reason for the call wasn’t quite that “It was my birthday, and I came home. My dire, but it was bad news. dad told me. We were watching the news, and Lund’s husband had phoned after a meet- I asked if I could change the channel, and he ing at which Pfizer, Inc. announced to its em- said no, because Pfizer’s closing and my mom ployees that it would completely shut down its wanted to watch it.”

The closing’s impact has interrupted the Ann Arbor research and development facility, taking with it nearly 2,100 area jobs. plans of students throughout the district as “I was shocked,” Lund said. well.

Lund said Pfizer has been making cutbacks Superintendent Evelynn Shirk said that a search of PowerSchool yielded a minimum of 45 students whose fathers or mothers are employed by Pfizer. But Shirk If you were wondering says the numbers are probably higher.

• Pfizer is trying to convince many people to “This list is not accurate bestay with the company and transfer to other cause the ‘Employer’ section of sites.

PowerSchool was not entered for all students,” she said. “I • Home prices will likely decline in the Ann know the number is higher.”

Arbor area due to the relocation of 2,100 High enough, at least, to unemployed members of Pfizer. cause some concern among the counselors.

• Pfizer officials did not respond to requests for “All three counselors have interviews and Pfizer employees were told not had students coming worried to talk to the media about the closing. about ‘Are they going to be in Dexter?’ ‘Are they going to be • Gov. Jennifer Granholm met with local officials living in their same home?’ or and Pfizer management to begin working out ‘Are they going to end up anwhat life after Pfizer will look like. other state?’ “ counselor Gerry Holmes said. “We’ve even con• The closing of Pfizer’s research facility in Ann sidered in the very near future Arbor is the biggest single employment loss in having a support group for Ann Arbor since Bechtel announced the layoff students affected by the Pfizer of 1,275 people in March 1984. situation. They could come together and talk about all their • More than 60 local leaders are being invited to concerns and worries, see if a private summit to begin a coordinated there is anything we can do to effort to respond to the decision by Pfizer Inc. to help.” close its Ann Arbor facilities.

Junior Diana Leadley, whose father holds positions • The Dexter district budget situation could as both a Pfizer employee and be negatively effected by the exodus of Pfizer the JV girls basketball coach, is employees. unsure of her family’s plans for the future.

• In 2006, Pfizer paid $12.9 million in real and “He did ask me the other personal property taxes - $8.8 million for real day what I’d feel about movproperty and $4.1 for personal property. ing,” Leadley sad. “He’s had Where the tax money goes: this dream job of working and • $1.5 million - Washtenaw County teaching at a small college and • $4.5 million - City of Ann Arbor coaching basketball, but I think • $3.3 million - Ann Arbor Public Schools he’s not ready for that for an• $814,000 - State of Michigan other 10 years or so.”

• $521,000 - Ann Arbor District Library Despite the standard com• $1 million - Washtenaw Intermediate School plications moving brings, many • $1 million - Washtenaw Community College of the high school students affected have a bigger problem: Sources: Ann Arbor city tax records, Ann Arbor college. Geographically, the

News, AnnArborgov.com

Quickread

Pfizer move poses a problem.

• A minimum of 45 students in the school district Students planning on going to college in have mothers or fathers who were employed by Michigan and being close to home may have Pfizer. their safety net pulled out from under them, and those who are just entering the college • Moving is a possibility for families who were search are faced with uncertainty, complicatemployed by Pfizer. ing the situation further.

“I do have a junior (who is) concerned that • Students may not choose to go to colleges in his father will take a job in another state,” Michigan if their families relocate.

Holmes said. “And it will be his senior year.

Will he be here? Where will he look for col• The school itself may suffer financially from the leges? He’s just in a state of confusion right exodus of students following parents into other now, worry and frustration. I think my updistricts and states. perclassmen are more worried about it.”

Leadley is less concerned.

• Principal Kit Moran would like to offer alterna“I think my parents have college covered tive solutions for students whose families are for me,” Leadley said. “They’re going to try at moving. least to keep me here for my senior year, and if my dad has to, he’ll go, and we’ll have to move, but we’re going to try not to.”

Principal Kit Moran wants to avoid putfacts they need to make a decision.

“We do know that the cost of living (in Groting students in that sort of situation, so he’s offering an alternative. ten) is 20 percent higher. Pfizer will buy our “If a student starts the new year as a senior house if it doesn’t sell, but they always lowball, and their parents have to move in the fall,” we’ve been through that before” Lund is also skeptical of what the offer enMoran said, “we would allow them to finish and graduate at Dexter. We really want to try tails in the long run. to keep them here. It’s just the right thing to “I cant help but wonder what happens in do. No one wants to move in high school.” three years when (Lipitor’s patent) expires According to Moran, the school itself may and they decide to make more cuts. Now we’re suffer from the exodus of students following stuck in Groten, Conn. where we have no connections or job prospects,” she said. “I don’t parents into other districts and states.

“Financially, fewer kids means less rev- trust we have a long-term future based on Pfizenue,” Moran said. “On the other hand, class er’s past performance.”

Lund said that she and her husband have size goes down in a couple spots. It’s a double edged sword.” decided that at least she will stay in Dexter reBut the school won’t be the only place tak- gardless of what happens.

“To teach in Connecticut, ing an economic hit.

“You think of that I would have to start basically from scratch, and I’m northeast corner of Ann I’ll stay here, and not willing to do that,”she Arbor,” Holmes said. he’ll go where his said. “I’ll stay here, and he’ll “They built new buildjob takes him. We’ll go where his job takes him. ings there. They took We’ll have a commuter marover other buildings • Diana Leadley have a commuter riage.” there and renovated marriage.”

It seems that no matter them. That whole section was Pfizer. You’re what decisions are made by - Kim Lund, wondering if those those now without the secuFrench teacher businesses are going to rity of a Pfizer job, someone continue to get enough will have to make a sacrifice business, the eateries in the short term, most likeand stuff like that, to support themselves. “Ac- ly parents in the community. cording to Holmes, however, the physical loss “I think some of these students, if their of Pfizer is less of a problem than its effect psy- parents are in their 40s,” Holmes said, “(their chologically on area residents. parents are) going to be looking at the next “I worry about the confidence,” Holmes 15 years, so they’re not necessarily going to said. “It’s shaking people’s confidence. Ann go to a job that’s here in Ann Arbor if they’re Arbor, really, because we have such ties to the not already enjoying being here. They’re going university, we’ve been pretty safe, economi- to think about maybe going to another state, cally, everything (had been) going all right. We maybe even another country. Who knows how almost seem to be insulated because we have far this reaches. You just don’t know what’s go• Kim Lund that connection with the university, but I think ing to happen.”

Despite the inherent concerns of the situathis kind of move with Pfizer shakes that confidence.” tion, Lund remains optimistic.

Many of Pfizer’s employees have been given “I survived it once before,” Lund said. “And the choice of following the company out of my husband and I have a great life here, and Michigan.

I want (people) to know that they will get Lund said her husband has been offered a through this, and they will be happy again. job in Connecticut, but they don’t yet have the There will be more good times.”

“

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3

Tuesday, February 27, 2007

The Squall

news

MME schedule raises eyebrows, complaints The MME

Dexter High School would be in compliance with the State’s required number of hours for student attendance.

“The State sets standards for how many Sleeping in during MEAP testing is a thing hours we need to teach students,” said Princiof the past for non-juniors.

In January of 2005, Gov. Jennifer Gran- pal William “Kit” Moran. “While it is inconveholm signed a bill that replaces the MEAP test nient to relocate classes, we need to meet this requirement. We have also asked the teachers with the Michigan Merit Exam (MME).

This new test will include the “ACT plus of classes that have juniors not to penalize the writing” test and other tests in math, science students for not attending.”

Moran said he asked and social studies. teachers to plan non-critiThese tests use quescal activities that enhance tions that used to be on While it is the learning experience the MEAP. inconvenient to for those non-juniors atThe test will also intending class in order clude a WorkKeys vocarelocate classes, we to prevent juniors from tional section, which is need the meet the missing a lot of direct insimilar to the PLAN test requirement.” struction. given to sophomores that Junior Will Grunhelps students determine - William Moran, dler is not too concerned their areas of interests. about missing classes, The new testing schedprincipal even though he does not ule that results from this like the new schedule. change will be different “(The MME) is like exams all over again,” from what students are used to.

Juniors and other test-takers will take the Grundler said. “The free ACT is a cool benefit, though.”

MME during a regular school day.

The new Michigan Merit Exam is based on The testing will take almost all day and will a system currently being used in Colorado and last for two days: March 13 and 14.

The tests will be proctored by substitutes Illinois, and Michigan is using a kind of trialhired as proctors, and the tests will be held on and-error to develop the new testing system.

“The (Michigan high school) principals all the third floor.

The classes held normally on the third floor meet after the testing to talk with each other will be moved to various locations throughout and share ideas with the State about how to improve the testing and its requirements,” the school.

It seems that the State auditors and the Moran said.

“I’m sure that we will be discussing the stricter ACT administration requirements are MME at the meeting and making changes to the reason this change will happen.

If students did not attend during the MME, the MME and its requirements.”

Scott Sarver staff writer

• The new Michigan Merit Exam (MME) consists of the ACT and its writing section.

• The test also includes other sections designed by the State covering math, science and social studies.

• The test also includes a section called “WorkKeys” which is similar to the career survey in the PLAN test.

• The new administration test will be reviewed by school administrators who will contact the State and give them their feedback.

“

Thief pockets valuables, leaves district Sydney Ross news editor

Reaching into their coat pockets at the end of the day, seniors Chantel Jennings and Adie Heyne noticed something strange. The items that were in their pockets at the beginning of the day now weren’t there.

That’s because their locker, located on the second floor, was broken into. “It was sometime between the morning and fourth hour that the locker break-in happened,” school liaison officer Paul Mobbs said. “We found out about it a little after fourth hour.”

Heyne and Jennings said when they went to their locker that day, it wouldn’t open. But they just figured it was jammed, just like it had been the week before when one of their coats got caught. “We went to the office after school to ask the custodian to open our locker for us,” Heyne said. “When I checked my pockets, my phone, and mp3 player wasn’t there like it had been earlier, but I figured I just left it in my car or at my house.”

When Jennings and Heyne met up later that night for basketball practice, they realized both

their phones, mp3 player and money were miss- back tone had been placed on the phone and all ing. They pieced the two together and figured out her contacts were erased.

According to Abbott, the junior who sold the these items had been stolen, not misplaced.

And while lockers have been broken into be- telephone now attends Pioneer High School. “He fore, it is not an easy thing to do Mobbs said. “All knew he was leaving, and this was the third time he’d done something like lockers have pins in them this,” she said. “I think what which lift up when the locker happened to him was fair.” is opened and the correct We are going to try As for Heyne, who said she com is done,” he said. “Howhas not yet received any of to get Adie’s things ever, their locker had pins her belongings back, Mobbs that were bent, which means back during court has hope. “We are going to that the locker was forced proceedings and try to get Adie’s things back open.” restitution.” during court proceedings Jennings’ phone was reand restitution,” he said. trieved that day by Mobbs And despite what might from sophomore Cecelia Ab- Paul Mobbs happen, Assistant Principal bott. Abbott said she bought school liaison officer Tim Authier said this incithe phone from a junior who dent is a matter of lack of restole the phone and other spect among students. “I think this issue speaks items out of Heyne and Jennings’ locker.

“I bought the phone from him for $70. When about respect,” he said. “Some people are just dishe sold it to me, I had no idea it had been stolen,” respectful and don’t care who they are affecting.

Lock your valuables away and don’t share locker Abbott said.

According to Jennings, when she got the phone coms with other people. Don’t leave your things back, text messages had been sent from it, a ring unattended. Theft is a crime of opportunity.”

“

Program educates about safety online Quickread • The Washtenaw Area Children’s Council (WACC) Online Safety Program was established to inform students about online predators • School liason deputy Paul Mobbs is the local coordinator for the program • Dexter is currently the only school in Washtenaw county participating in the program

Michelle Chirby staff writer

For girls like freshman Bridget Lloyd, the Internet can be a threatening environment. While checking her e-mail one evening, Lloyd received an instant message from someone she didn’t know. “I had only given my e-mail to people I knew,” she said.

Startled by the situation, Lloyd and her mom called their neighbor, a police officer.

“When my neighbor came over, the guy had started sending me weird pictures of him in his boxers on his bed,” Lloyd said. “He was talking like he knew me. He was giving out his information and trying to get information from me.”

Because of potential dangerous online situations like Lloyd’s, some Dexter students have begun participating in The Washtenaw Area Children’s Council (WACC) Online Safety Program. This program aims to educate a group of senior girls about the dangers of the Internet such as Internet predators, identity theft and cyber bullying.

With this program a group of 10 girls will go through six weeks of training to become mentors. First, they will

be educating seventh through 10th graders. “We decided that that is the most impressionable age group,” senior mentor Chelsea LeMarbe said.

Principal William “Kit” Moran agrees. “For obvious reasons, females have been identified as a vulnerable group,” he said. “Unfortunately, my experience with adolescents is that they’re naive about the Internet.”

School liaison officer Paul Mobbs, the local coordinator for the program, said that the program will help teens recognize the dangers they face online. “Kids will always have to make the decision on how much information to put out on the Internet,” he said. “I think it will make a difference if the education is coming from high school mentors.”

Currently, Dexter is the only school in the county participating in the program. “Right now, we’re the pilot school,” Mobbs said. “If it works, the program may broaden out.”

And Moran said he has a positive outlook on the program. “Kids learn better from kids,” he said. “They need to know that there are other people than their friends on Myspace that can see what’s going on. If it teaches even a couple kids, then the program is a success.”

BRIEFS

NEWS

Dexter grad up for Hobey Baker award Dexter graduate Eric Ehn is a candidate for this year’s Hobey Baker award, the Heisman trophy of college hockey. Ehn leads the nation with 45 points this season, scoring in 21 of 26 games, reaching 102 total points in his college career. Anyone can vote for the winner, by going to hob e y b a ker.c om.

Voters can vote as many times as they like, but all voting ends March 4. After that, the top 10 will be selected and voting will open again for the final winner.

Save a sweetheart saves lives February is Save a Sweetheart month, and students during the week of Feb. 12 had the opportunity to pledge to either stop smoking or to not smoke at all. Save a Sweetheart took place during all three lunches and was put on by the National Honors Society, whom hold drives and fundraisers throughout the school year. The event was organized by science teacher Cheryl Wells.

Seminar to teach safety for women The John C. Banfield Foundation is offering a self-defense seminar for women dedicated to the topics of survival awareness and vehicle security, social harassment, defensive techniques and rape prevention and date rape drugs.

The seminar is part of the Sexual Harassment Assualt Rape Prevention Program (SHARP), Those who choose to attend the seminar, to be held on March 9 and 14 from 6 to 9 p.m. at the high school, should be dressed in attire fit for physical exercise.

Assisstance for prom requested The prom committee is looking for parents to help out with the 2007 Prom. The next organizational meeting for helping out with set-up and planning will be held on March 1 at 7 p.m. in the DHS media center. There are many issues to address, including the problem of not having enough chairs for the event, as well as a lack of chairs for the Nearly Wed game, a version of the game show featuring prom-goers and their dates.

Anyone interested in decorating for the prom or would like to help out is asked to e-mail Allyson Lyons at ahlyons@comcast.net

4

Tuesday, February 27, 2007

The Squall

feature

Meth ingredient stolen from local farm supply store

Thieves go to hospital after spilling anhydrous ammonia on shirt Rawlin Myers staff writer

A group of thieves stole anhydrous ammonia from Royster Clark, a farm supply company on Parker Road on January 29, in an apparent attempt to obtain ingredients to make methamphetamine. And Royster Clark manager Ken Baldus is still somewhat disturbed by the events.

• Officer Paul “It’s crazy that someone would Mobbs was steal such a dangerous chemical to involved in the make meth,” Baldus said. “But in stolen meth ingredient case. today’s society, I’m not surprised “Meth destroys at all.” Baldus said the thieves were intent on using the chemi- the body,” he said. cals to produce meth, and that one of them accidentally spilled the anhydrous ammonia on his clothes and nearly died later in the hospital.

Methamphetamine, or meth for short, is a highly addictive and destructive drug made from common household items such as drain cleaner and cough medicine. New limits have been placed on the sale of these items, and new measures are being taken to prevent their theft because meth addiction is one of the worst types of addictions according to school liaison officer Paul Mobbs.

“Meth actually changes the chemical reactions in your brain,” Mobbs said. “It destroys your body. It deteriorates your body. You have immediate dependency. It’s not like any other addiction.”

Sometimes called crystal meth, crank, glass or tweak, meth can be easily and cheaply manufactured, mostly out of illegal labs in homes or apartments.

According to the Midwestern Governors Association, in 2000, 40 meth labs were seized in Michigan. In 2006, the number had reached 224. It costs tens of thousands of dollars and hundreds of police man hours to safely clean up a meth lab. And after a structure has been seized, most of the time it was in has to either be destroyed or condemned due to the potential health risks presented by leftover chemicals, residues or vapors.

The fact that the drug can be easily made, and most crime involving it occurs in rural farming areas, it has gained the nickname “the new moonshine”.

And while Deputy Mobbs said meth isn’t a big issue in Dexter yet, he wants people to be prepared if and when it does come.

“The Dexter youth doesn’t have a problem,” he said. “But it just explodes in small communities very quickly. It’s so destructive.”

“

Lunch ladies cheer up students Austin Shapiro managing editor

willing to go the extra mile for everyone.”

This appreciation is a two way street.

“My favorite part about the job is the chilAs sophomore Nick Soos makes his way dren,” Food and Nutrition worker Nancy through the maze of tables at lunch, he be- Baldus chuckled, as if she didn’t believe herself. “Honestly, working with the kids gins to decide what he will order.

As he steps up to the counter to order, is the best.”

Baldus also added that there are few Soos is greeted with a smile and a kind salutation. This isn’t an anomaly. Soos is things she dislikes about her job. “I don’t one of around a thousand students who is really have a least favorite thing,” she pleasantly served each day by the Food and said.

“If anything, I would have to say cleanNutrition staff.

Despite rarely being thanked for their ing up after the three lunches, but I don’t services, Soos said the lunch ladies always really have to do that anymore.”

Another thing that has made the job so have a smile on their face. For Soos this enjoyable for Baldus is is the best part. “I like being around her chilhow they smile at me dren. “It’s great getting when they hand me my It’s just nice they to see my kids everycookie,” Soos said. “It day,” she said. “I don’t makes the experience are always willing know if the same (goes) more enjoyable.” to go the extra mile for them, but they got According to Food for everyone.” over it.”

Service Manager LorHowever, she knows raine Bienko it’s no co- Paul Engstrom, her kids won’t always incidence. be around. “When my “We try to look for junior youngest (sophomore (people) who like and Amy Baldus) graduappreciate young peoates it’ll be sad because ple,” Bienko said about how Food and Nutrition employees are I won’t get to see them as much,” Baldus hired. “It’s most important they relate said.

“And I won’t know as many of the other to the students in a positive way. Then we look for people who are cheerful and kids in the school because my kids friends won’t be around the house anymore.” friendly.”

For all involved lunch seems to be a Junior Paul Engstrom also appreciates how far the lunch ladies are willing to go pleasant place to be. “It’s definitely my favorite part of the day, other than the end,” for students.

“If they don’t have what I want, they’re Soos said.

Baldus agrees. “It’s just a good time for always willing to go find it for you,” Engstrom said. “It’s just nice that they are the kids and for us.”

“

Photo by Sean Wallace

Lunch ladies smile big: Nutrition worker Nancy Baldus takes orders from students and keeps a smile on her face.

“Talking to the lunch ladies is definitely my favorite part of the day, other than the end of the day,” sophomore Nick Soos said.

Nancy Baldus said she really enjoys her job.

“My favorite part of the job is the children,” she said. “Honestly, working with kids is the best.”

Valentine's Day brings sadness to some Dubay and Wallis share different opinions on the day

It’s crazy that some one would steal such a dangerous chemical to make meth.”

- Ken Baldus, Royster Clark manager

(734) 769-3888 www.sunrisetees.com 5277 Jackson Rd Ann Arbor, MI 48103

Mug Shot: Fill in a description of why this person is important to the article

Quick Valentine Facts • Valentine's Day celebrates the love and companionship that St. Valentine believed in.

• Chrysler cut 10,000 jobs on Valentine's Day this year • In the 1920's Al Capone ordered the massacre of seven gang members on Valentine's Day

when Mike(Wallis’ boyfriend of over a year) comes to pick me up at my house.”

Wallis not only appreciates the love Senior Kelsey Dubay is not very fond of Valentine’s Day but also the different of Valentine’s Day and the dark memo- ways to celebrate. “I got my nails paintries that come along with it. ed red with white hearts on them,” she “I hate Valentine’s Day,” Dubay said. said.

“I started going out with my old boyAccording to counselor Kristie Doyle, friend on Valentine’s Day a few years teenagers without relationships often do back, and the day just reminds me of feel sad around Valentine’s Day. “They how stupid I was to ever date him.” may start to feel sad if all their friends Dubay says there are many other have relationships,” Doyle said. “They reasons for not likoften start to place ing Valentine’s Day. a lot of blame on “Valentine’s Day is themselves, and feel all just about propasomething is wrong Valentine’s Day is just ganda,” she said. “It’s with them. It’s also about the all about the card hard on friends when propaganda. It’s all companies making a friend gets a boyabout the card money. There are friend and doesn’t companies making so many superficial have as much time money.” people who f launt for other friends.” their Valentine’s Day But Doyle said Kelsey Dubay, gifts around. They there are many senior just try to make oththings a student can ers feel bad. I usually do on Valentine’s just laugh at these Day if they are feelpeople.” ing lonely.

Junior Rita Wallis feels differently “Get together with friends or famabout the day, however. “I like Valen- ily on Valentine’s Day,” Doyle said. “Go tine’s Day because I love spending time bowling, go out to dinner or make a dinwith the person I love,” Wallis said. ner with all your friends. It’s just impor“It’s also a great day just to know you tant to surrounded yourself with people are loved. My favorite part of the day is who care about you.”

Katie Fricke features editor

“

Tuesday, February 27, 2007

The Squall 'Trick or treat, here's some cyanide.'

Science teacher makes his unique life lessons and stories part of class

Hunter Lyons staff writer

“

Sitting on his stool during 3rd hour with (chemistry teacher Jeff) Dagg and I on Chemistry class, science teacher Dave Cal- different lesson plans and helping students laghan starts into his daily lecture. Along with tutoring.”

But to students and other staff, he has with talking about ionization classification and the periodic table, he keeps kids on their been more than just a good Chemistry and Physics teacher. toes making sure they’re paying attention.

“He is extremely entertaining,” science Because if they’re not, this teacher of 12 years will give students an ear full. Today’s teacher Beau Kimmey said. “The best is victim was junior Carly Dalton who thought when the students don’t even get it.”

Riehle agrees. “He keeps things casual, she was being quiet, but not quiet enough which is nice,” she said for Callaghan.

“He’s also a good teachCallaghan managed er.” to tell her to be quiet, The Humor of Mr. But when Riehle is make fun of her, tell Callaghan in class, she doesn’t just her he was kidding, and take notes on the latest go back into his lecture • "I thought we established chapter in her chemistry without changing the that I didn't like you." class, she takes notes on tone of his voice.

Callaghan’s entertaining But it doesn’t seem to • "Oh good, a challenge! A question of science; you comments. bother Dalton “It doesn’t versus me, a challenge!"

“I have four pagbother me at all,” Daton es of just quotes that said “It makes the class • "Little puppy dogs, yum.

Mr.Callaghan has said a little more interesting.

Black ones taste the best." in class,” she said that But Dalton does admit the four pages of quotes it makes concentrating • "You'd be surprised how low range from how to make in class difficult somemy standards for teaching are." a nuclear bomb to “Trick times. “Sometimes I reor Treat, here’s some alize I’m having so much • "This is how you make a bomb. If you're from Iran, cyanide.” fun in class that I don’t don't listen."

But to Wells it is what realize that im not even Callaghan has done in paying attention.” Dal• "First you learn about atoms, and out of school that ton said “But overall he’s then you start to smoke dope." has given her the imbeen a really good.” pression that he has of “Mr. Callaghan has • "If I believe in reincarnation, I him today. no problem embarrassmust've been really bad in my “A couple of years ago ing you in front of the past life."

Mr.Callaghan gave me class,” junior Ellen Riea 1937 original edition • "We're saying the same thing hle said. “But Mr. C is but we're disagreeing. What of Marie Curie biograa pretty cool guy and a are we, politicians?" phy written by Curie’s great teacher.” daughter,” Wells said.

His fellow science “That is something I will teachers seem to agree with Riehle but appreciate him more for treasure for the rest of my life.”

Students and teachers alike agree that what he has done for the Dexter science deCallaghan’s lessons teach more than just partment.

“Mr. Callaghan has been a outstanding chemistry but life. “He’s a pretty tough colleague.” science department chair Cheryl teacher but he knows what he’s talking Wells said. “He came here with so much ex- about.” Riehle said “And that’s why I like perience. He has been very good at working him.”

Mr. Callaghan has no problem embarrassing you in front of the class, but Mr. C is a great teacher.”

-Ellen Riehle, junior

ThemAgains send messages Katie Johnson advertisment manager

Narrowing his eyes at the crowd, drummer Kevin Monteith hammers down on the bass pedal, keeping the beat to the original song ‘Hula S---.’

Monteith, along with seniors Alex Krausman and Eric DeVries, form ThemAgains, a band with influences ranging from Incubus and 311.

“We renamed the band every month,” Monteith said about his band’s current name. “Someone’s drunk brother yelled (ThemAgains) out randomly at a party, and it stuck.”

Along with the name, their music has also been modified. “We started off as a ska band,” DeVries said. “Through musical evolution, we started writing our own stuff, and now we fit into the category of ‘groove metal.’”

According to DeVries, most of the songs are written by Krausman, two of which are ‘Powerful Carpeting’ and ‘Hula S---.’

But for Krausman the songs have a deeper meaning. “Most of our lyrics are about the lack of harmony for religious groups and the corrupt side of religion,” he said.

Krausman also wants the songs to send a significant message to others. “We’re really just about playing music. We like to send a message but hide it in

our own style.”

The band practices three to four times a week and is now in the studio. “The hardest part is doing anything but jamming,” Krausman said. “Being in the studio is a lot of fun, but we have to be meticulous of everything that goes on.” But Krausman knows the work will pay off. “We’ve put a lot of work into it, so keep your ears open,” he said. “We have high expectations. It’s going to be a good CD.” For Monteith, the experience of being in a band is the best part. “It’s an awesome experience,” he said.

“It’s a real experience, and even if it doesn’t get anywhere, it’s just fun to do.”

The band also plans on playing this summer.

“We’ve been trying to book gigs at the Blind Pig and The Heidelberg in Ann Arbor,” Krausman said. “But the biggest problem is that our crowd isn’t of age, so it’s hard to get good gigs.”

They also plan on staying together after high school. “We have it all planned out,” DeVries said with a laugh. “Kevin is going to school in Chicago and there’s this train from Chicago to Ann Arbor, so we won’t be that disconnected.”

And Krausman said the effort of keeping the band together is worth it because the music is what is important. “Music is the highest form of human expression,” he said. “It expresses the unexpressive. It’s such a passion.”

“

Ready To Perform: ThemAgains Eric DeVries, Kevin Monteith and Alex Krausman practice for their new CD. “We put a lot of work into it, so keep your ears open,” Krausman said.

Photos by Ryan Winchester

Q A &

5

feature

Freshman John Oliver

By: Scott Campbell

Q: Do you consider Mooninites to be terrorists?

A: What?

Q: Oh, you don’t know what that is? Aqua-Teen Hunger Force?

A: No, sorry.

Q: Why is there braille on the buttons of drive-thru ATMs? A: So if a blind person is driving, they can get money.

Q: Have you ever imagined a world with no hypothetical questions?

A: I haven’t because the hypothetical question you just asked me wouldn’t work.

Q: Why do fools fall in love?

A: Because they’re foolish.

Q: What do you think is going on in “Lost”?

A: They aren’t really on an island at all. They’re in space somehow.

Q: Let’s say there’s a battle royale for the future of the universe. First round: Alien vs. Predator.

A: Alien.

Q: Round two: A Jedi vs.

Superman vs. Super Saiyan 4 Gogeta.

A: The last one.

• Kevin Monteith, drummer

Q: Final round: The laws of physics vs. a bumblebee.

A: Bumblebee.

Q: Are you more excited for the Transformers movie or the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles movie?

A: They’re both great.

• Eric DeVries, bassist

Q: That’s another fight.

Transformers or the Ninja Turtles?

A: Transformers would win. They could assume the form of the Turtles and therefore win that way.

We like to send a message but hide it in our own style.”

Q: Why is it that a vessel of water receives no additional weight from a live fish being put in it, though it does if the fish is dead?

- Alex Krausman, senior front-man

• Alex Krausman, guitarist

Subway 8135 Main St Dexter, MI 48130 734-426-4957

6

Tuesday, February 27, 2007

The Squall Going for the golden man: Oscar winners and wannabes

entertainment THE

TRICKLE Here at The Squall we love kitties.

That’s why we decided to dedicate this month’s entire Trickle to these adorable and furry little creatures.

We hope you enjoy!

• Big Cat

• Cat in food

TV goers love 'I Love New York'

Tongue-in-cheek program makes viewers chuckle with strange humor Frank Dufek opinions editor

VH1’s “Flavor of Love” has proven itself to be one of the most surprising cult phenomena of recent time by garnering record-breaking ratings, inspiring a number of spinoff shows and making the top of nearly everyone’s list of guilty pleasures.

The show, a tongue-in-cheek variation of ABC’s “The Bachelor,” ran for two successful seasons and created some of the most memorable moments in reality television. Nearly all of these moments involved, were started by or were a result of the show’s breakout star, Tiffany “New York” Pollard.

Pollard’s over-the-top behavior developed her a legion of fans. The fans typically fall into one of two different factions: those who love New York and those who love to hate New York.

Pollard has said, “You either love New York, or you hate her.

If you hate her, you know, f--k you. If you love her, I’m with you.”

It would appear that the love for Pollard’s on-air persona, New York, far outnumbers the hate due to the fact that she was given her own spin-off show, “I Love New York.”

The show’s structure mirrors that of its predecessor, “Flavor of Love,” with only a few minor changes. It made its debut on VH1 at the beginning of the new year and delivered the network its highest ratings for a series debut.

During “Flavor of Love,” Flavor Flav’ decided to name each

Tiffany “New York” Pollard: Her fans fall into one of two different catagories: those who love New York and those who love to hate New York.

of the female contestants due to the fact that he “has trouble remembering (people’s) names.” The result of this produced such monikers as, “Pumkin,” “Red Oyster,” “Toasteee” and “New York.”

This element of the show was kept for New York’s spinoff show where men can be found with the names, “Pootie,” “Mr. Boston” and “T-Weed.”

A unique addition to “I Love New York” is the permanent inclusion of Pollard’s mother, who goes by “Sister Patterson.”

The contestants are left shaking in their Timberlands each time they endure her venomous wrath.

Her behavior may be a bit exaggerated for the cameras, but every character on the show’s is as well, whether they admit it or not.

Accepting ridiculous realities like whacked out names, overly ferocious mothers and a cameo by Omarosa Monigault-Stalworth are the first in a series of steps one must take before truly being able to enjoy the genius that is “I Love New York.”

'300' sure to please viewers Kelsey Schultz entertainment editor

• George Bush eating cat

Ryan Aliapoulios staff writer

Buff men in leather Speedos. Women who look like goddesses. Intense battle scenes. Some of the best cinematography since “The Matrix”. “300” has all of the qualities and more, which is why everyone should see it when it comes out on March 9.

“300” is based on the graphic novel of the same name by Frank Miller, which tells the story of the Battle of Thermopylae. In 480 B.C. King Xerxes invaded Greece with his massive army of well over 100,000 men. Three hundred Spartan warriors met the invading Persians at Thermopylae to give the rest of Greece time to prepare for the invasion.

Three hundred men fighting against 100,000 seems like it would be a short battle and therefore a short movie. However, as the trailer says, “Spartans descended from Hercules himself ... the finest warriors the world has ever known.”

Sounds like an even match and extreme

it must be uncomfortable for them to battle.

If bloody sword fights aren’t appeal- move at all.

What is destined to be the best part of ing, how about some of the hottest men on the planet swinging those swords? Ev- the movie is the cinematography.

The entire movie is filmed on a blue ery actor playing a Spartan went through difficult physical training, and the result screen combining live action with virtual is spectacular: rippling biceps and eight backgrounds.

The effect is similar pack abdominals which to that of “Sin City”, will make any female’s another one of Miller’s mouth salivate.

The story of bravery graphic novels adapted Don’t worry boys. and love will keep to the big screen.

There’s plenty of eye viewers emotionAnd like “Sin City”, candy for you too. Lena ally involved, and “300” is about to break Headey (The Brothers the visual elements movie barriers with its Grimm) plays the stunwon’t let viewer’s release. The story of ning Queen Gorgo, and eyes stray from the bravery and love will there are plenty of halfscreen.” keep viewers emotionnaked belly dancers to ally involved, and the keep male viewers envisual elements won’t tertained when heads let viewers eyes stray from the screen. aren’t being severed.

So put off your homework and forget In addition the costumes are vibrant, complete with elaborate details and cov- about cleaning your room, because everyered in gold and silver. Some of the Per- one must see this movie the moment it is sians are covered with so many piercings released.

“

'Stomp the Yard' stomps out 'You Got Served' Josh Ball staff writer

• Lime Cat

• Orange Cat

“Stomp the Yard” came out.

“Stomp the Yard” is a movie about a young battle dancer, played by Columbus Short, who is coincidentally also from LA. In 2004 the movie industry hit a high note. Movies such as Short’s love interest is played by Meagan Good, and the movie also stars R&B singers Ne-Yo and Chris “Lost in Translation,” “Seabiscuit” and “Lord Brown (for about two and a half minutes). of the Rings: Return of the King” all preThat’s where the movie’s twist comes into miered. Unfortunately the summer came, play. Brown plays Short’s brother but is faand a little movie by the name of “You Got Boy-band B2K tally shot during a fight over a dance battle Served” hit the box offices. struggled to sell his team had controversially won.

Boy-band B2K struggled to sell records Both movies follow inner-city kids who and saw this movie as a chance to regain records and saw stardom. The group soon found out, though, are able to solve all their problems through this movie as a that the world wasn’t ready for a tale of hardsome sort of dancing. “Stomp the Yard” has a chance to regain times that had to be solved by underground little something extra, though, the emotional stardom.” dance battling. factor. Short’s character, D.J., does a move “You Got Served” stared B2K members that honors his brother near the end of the movie. This scene parallels the end of “TitanOmarion, Marques Houston, J-Boog, Lil’ ic” or when Tom Hanks is shot on the bridge Fizz and Raz B. All the guys lived in Los Anin “Saving Private Ryan.” It could bring anygeles where they either play basketball, deliver black duffle bags (supposedly filled with some sort of drug) one to tears.

In the end of both movies, the dancers’ lives are happy again or dance battle. Also the movie was “clean.” There isn’t any foul language. Instead the rivaling crews just call each other names due to their battle win. So I know what you’re asking yourself. “If such as “suckas.”

I’m having any troubles in my life, can I just get a crew together It is now 2007, and very few dance movies have surfaced since and enter a dance battle?” And the answer is, of course, “No, not the bomb-of-a-movie that was “You Got Served.” That is until at all.”

“

The Academy Awards are both highly prestigious and highly political. Keeping unwritten Hollywood rules in mind, I drained my bank account to see as many movies with Oscar nods as I could and came up with this list of likely victors:

Best Picture Who will win: “Million Dollar Baby” won so “Letters From Iwo Jima” won’t this year, since Clint Eastwood did both. I’d assume “Babel” would win, but “Crash” won last year and they are too similar. Nobody saw “The Queen”, and “The Departed” won’t win because Martin Scorcese will get Best Director. As a best estimate, “Little Miss Sunshine” will win but watch out for a surprise.

Who should win: It is criminal that “Children of Men” didn’t get a best picture nod. That aside, “The Departed” was the most tautly structured and entertaining film in this category.

Best Director Who will win: Clint Eastwood won already. Stephen Frears hasn’t gotten much buzz for “The Queen” and neither has “United 93”’s Paul Greenglass. “Babel” was probably Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu’s weakest film, so chances are it will go to Scorcese for “The Departed” since he is long overdue for an Oscar anyway.

Who should win: Of all of these directors, Scorcese is the most consistent and interesting without being pretentious. It’s fair that he finally wins, even if he’s directed better films in the past and not won.

Best Actor Who will win: Will Smith didn’t win for “Ali”, so he definitely won’t for “The Pursuit Of Happyness”. Leonardo DiCaprio will be overlooked and Ryan Gosling is a newbie so that leaves Forest Whitaker and Peter O’ Toole.

Nobody saw “Venus”, and O’ Toole got a lifetime achievement award already, so my money is on Whitaker.

Who should win: Whitaker’s performance was most the challenging and also the most nuanced considering he was playing a vicious dictator, so my vote is for him.

Best Actress Who will win: Kate Winslet won’t win for “Little Children” nor will Meryl Streep for “The Devil Wears Prada” since she doesn’t need another Oscar. Penelope Cruz is unlikely for “Volver” and Judi Dench in “Notes on a Scandal” has won before. Chances are it will go to Mirren, since she and Dench are the heavyweights of the category.

Who should win: All of the actresses in this category were excellent, but of all of them, Judi Dench had the most convincing and frightening performance.

Best Supporting Actor Who will win: Alan Arkin won’t win for “Little Miss Sunshine” as he was rarely onscreen and neither will Jackie Earle Haley for his child molester role in “Little Children”. Mark Wahlberg won’t win in “The Departed” as his role was far too small and comedic. Eddie Murphy for “Dreamgirls” seems a likely choice as Djimon Hounsou will remain overlooked for a while.

Who should win: Most of these roles didn’t blow me away, and the closest one to doing so was Jackie Earle Haley in “Little Children”. His performance was downright creepy as a child molester who acts almost like an innocent child. The parallelism is chilling.

Best Supporting Actress Who will win: Emily Blunt is out for “The Devil Wears Prada” since no one cares. Abigail Breslin won’t win for “Little Miss Sunshine” since she’s far too young. Adriana Barraza and Rinko Kikuchi are out for “Babel” since they are foreign actresses. All the buzz points to Jennifer Hudson for “Dreamgirls”.

Who should win: It would kill me if Hudson won, since newcomer Breslin deserves an Oscar for “Little Miss Sunshine”. Her role is far more complex and layered, but she manages to play it perfectly despite her inexperience.

11

Tuesday, February 27, 2007

The Squall

sports

Student loses teeth while diving

Crompton searches for Killian’s teeth at bottom of pool

teeth were retrieved, the attention was again focused on Killian. Killian, however, was not rushed to the hospital right away.

Crompton said, “They put ice on him for a while and Junior Sean Killian was rushed to the hospital after loosing three teeth and biting through his bottom lip on tried to warm him up. He was in shock so he was shaking.

January 18 in a diving accident at Lincoln’s pool. Killian’s The main concern, though, was to stop the bleeding.”

Not long after the incident, Killian’s father picked him fellow divers witnessed the accident, but sophomore Scott Crompton was perhaps most involved. up and took him to the hospital. Killian was at no point “Sean was just warming up as unconscious; however, he does say he was in a great deal of pain. usual,” Crompton said. “He was As the pool filled with blood, there just practicing his inward dive for was now a question as to whether the meet. He didn’t jump back far “I just figured if I the meet should proceed. enough. And when he tried to push found his teeth, “There were two options,” away from the board, he pushed the they could put board down. The board then sprang Crompton said. “We could shock up and hit him in the face.” the pool (add a excessive amount of them back in.”

Despite the bloody mess, Killian’s chlorine) or reschedule the meet.”

In the end, the decision was to reaction was not extreme. “I have hit Scott Crompton, the board a bunch of times before,” reschedule the meet. “There was sophomore Killian said. “So at first I thought it just too much blood,” Crompton was no big deal.” said.

And Crompton said Killian kept Despite all that happened, his composure. “He just swam to Killian said he considers himself the side of the pool and got out,” he said. “And after he lucky. “They were able to put my three real teeth back got out of the pool, I checked him out.” in,” he said. “They also sewed the nerves together in my Crompton inspected Killian’s mouth and realized that bottom lip.”

And although doctors were able to put Killian’s teeth Killian was missing three teeth. Crompton than dove into the deep end of the pool in search of them. back in, they are only temporary.

And what inspired him to dive into the dark, bloody When Killian turns 21, he will need to get his real teeth water? replaced with implants.

“I just figured if I found his teeth they could put them And he said he will continue to dive after he has fully back in,” Crompton said. “I didn’t want Sean to look recovered. For Killian diving is a must, and he will do ridiculous.” anything to keep doing it.

Crompton was successful at retrieving the teeth from “I’m not scared to continue to dive,” Killian said. the bottom of the deep end. “They were really big,” he “When my major mouth ache goes away, I hope to get said. “Like the entire tooth was ripped out.” After the back out there as long as my mom lets me.”

Celia Kuzon sports editor

“

Rescue Diver: Crompton dove to the bottom of the pool to retrieve Killian’s teeth

Junior Sean Killian: had to have four teeth put back in that he lost in a diving accident

Swim Team Facts • Three people made the state team this year • Senior Kirk Kumbier is going to Kenyan University on a swimming scholarship • Both the swim and dive team bleach their hair every year • During the season the boys are not allowed to cut their hair until the SEC meet • There are three divers on the dive team

Juggling school, sports can be a difficult task Krystyna Taheri staff writer

illustration by Rachel Moir

In between relays senior Adrienne Fasbinder frantically studies for tomorrow’s tests. Soon she hears her name called and quickly jumps up to take a break from AP Biology to help her team in the night’s swim meet.

After hours of breathing chlorine and constant yelling, the night comes to a close, and she is relieved that she won a solid race but exhausted knowing that it is already 9 o’clock, and she still has more Humanities to do.

Whether you are a student or an athlete, everyone always seems to be crunched for time. But what happens when you are both a good athlete and an academic success? It becomes a real battle for time and forces you to use effective time management skill to balance both sports and school, say many student-athletes.

Fasbinder is captain for both varsity swimming and varsity water polo. If that is not enough, she also manages to hold a 3.65 GPA and has a rigorous course schedule.

She said juggling sports and academics is difficult but can be done. “During seasons it makes you more motivated to get stuff done

and forces you to structure your time,” she sports has made him more self-motivated said, adding the real key is, “being aware of and better at time management. But he does your schedule and taking the initiative to admit that it is hard to juggle both. “It renot procrastinate and do what needs to be quires a lot of hard work, long hours and lots of dedication,” he said. “I like to excel at done.”

When a day off finally comes Fasbinder’s both school and sports, but in the end school comes first.” way, she said she fills Counselor Gerry this gap by going to Holmes thinks jugMcDonald’s with her gling both school and friends, eating and play“It requires lots of sports can be a risky ing video games. But hard work, long and difficult task. “I once this is complete, hours and lots of have students that are she is back to business, dedication.” way over committed with a balance. “High with jobs, school and school comes first besports, and then do cause it needs to be,” James Nati, not understand why she said. “That is what is senior they have so much getting me into college. stress,” she said. “StuSports are more fun and dents have to learn not more competitive. They give me a rest from school even for a couple to over commit.”

However Holmes said with the right balof hours.”

Senior James Nati seems to agree with ance success on the field and the classroom Fasbinder on most aspects of balancing don’t have to be mutually exclusive.

“It has been noticed that many students schedules. Nati is also a two-sport captain.

He was captain in the fall for varsity soccer do better with extra curricular activities,” she and is captain of the varsity basketball team. said. “Students then learn to budget time.

He holds solid grades and has taken several Students need to pick a few activities, make them meaningful and stick with them. And advance courses.

According to Nati, balancing school and most importantly stick with academics.”

“

Cheer team reaches new heights Caitlin Henderson staff writer

• Cheer Team Captain: Chelsea Reardon helps lead the team to new levels on and off the court

A-M-E-L-I-A. The chant echoes throughout the house, as a smile spreads across the birthday girl’s face as the varsity cheer team helps the nine-year-old celebrate her birthday by teaching her and her friends stunts and cheers.

Amelia responded by naming all her dolls after members of the team and even created an imaginary friend named Chelsea, after Chelsea Reardon, a team captain. “The little girl was very excited, and it was great she enjoyed us so much,” Reardon said.

And in addition to using birthday parties to make money, the team has been busy promoting cheerleading and spirit all around Dexter.

The team also went to summer camp at Michigan State University where they swept the camp, leaving with the leadership award (voted on by all the other squads), best stunt, best cheer, best home team cheer and the big banana(most spirited).

And seven of the girls walked away with all-star awards which was the most all-stars on any team at camp.

Along with the these other awards,the team came out with one major team aspect, friendship. “All the girls are very close and hang out in and out of school,” Reardon said.

Not only do they get along on an everyday basis, through school and sports, but Reardon said camp was extremely good. “All the girls were perfect, and there were no problems,” she said All the team camaraderie, it was a good support for all the other challenging obstacles they had to overcome including their goal of improvement.

Mastering the Tic Toc, a pyramid new to the team’s stunts, was very difficult, and the team was the only one at camp to master this stunt according to senior Lauren Westphal. ”We were the dominant team at camp,” she said In addition members of the team thought it would be fun to brighten up someone else’s life, by participating in community service by volunteering at the Make-a-Wish Foundation, an organization which helps raise money for kids who are fighting diseases or are very ill.

One of the Make-a-Wish’s fundraisers was a bike ride from Traverse City to Chelsea and the cheerleaders stood with all the extremely ill kids and watched as the bikers went by, teaching the kids cheers to raise their spirits and the spirits of the bikers. “It was really sad, but it was nice that we could help,” Reardon said.

With the team getting along so well, and all the hard work they have put into this season, Reardon said, ”We have been very successful.”

Cheer Team Facts • Work at childrens’ birthday parties • Volunteer with Make-a-Wish Foundation • Only team at camp to master Tic Toc cheer • Won best stunt, best cheer and best home team cheer • Won big banana, most spirited award, voted by other squads at summer camp

12

Tuesday, February 27, 2007

The Squall

opinions

Cartoon by Rawlin Myers

Vermin Supreme: fascism for the White House in ‘08

Robert Kuzon editor-in-chief

T

his is a serious column. I am done being Mr. Funny Guy. I am through with the “ha has” and the “lols”, and I have had it up to here with the humor. I am now writing politics. Vermin Supreme for president in 2008.

Supreme is a fascist out of Massachusetts, and he should be our next president. Not only does he want to make our country a better place, but he also wants to do it in an extreme way.

I sent Mr. Supreme an e-mail asking him several questions and asking for a formal, more thorough interview, but unfortunately he declined stating, “Unfortunately to answer would require me to think, number one, and then I would have to type it.” So I will do my best to analyze his masterful genius and to explain his plans for the country.

I’ll start with his platform: strong teeth for a strong America! Some of what this includes is “dental squads” with the right for no-warning, no-warrant dental inspections as well as government issued toothpaste that contains addictive, yet harmless, ingredients.

Then there is the selling point of the platform: to invest in genetic engineering in order to create a race of winged monkeys to act as tooth fairies.

The simplicity of this plan is genius.

While other politicians are wasting our time

Supreme also plans on replacing the police on issues nobody cares about, Supreme gets right down to the root of the matter. Get it? Root, like with something better. He wants to give powerful weapons to anybody who wants them in ortooth.

Supreme has made a series of promises that der to create a government-sponsored vigilante will strengthen us as a country and unite us a death squad to “take the law back into our own people. First, he wants to create a climate-con- hands”. This group of people will be responsible trolled dome in order to make sure that tempera- for the elimination of anarchists, communists tures never get too high or low. Or if that doesn’t and other scum that may be roaming the streets.

Another strong point in the work, he says to just move campaign is to install Marthe entire city, or country, shall Law. to a more hospitable cliBut not only that, he mate.

Next he wants to wants to engage in massive This is a plan that will make crime against censorship and the invaincrease American spirit the law. How come sion of personal privacy and and patriotism because nobody thought of rights. with good weather all the this before? It’s so This includes radio time, people will always be transmitter implants, laser outsides interacting with simple.” fingerprint tattoos and raneach other. dom drug and polygraph Next Supreme wants to testing of all citizens. make crime against the law.

As you can see, Supreme How come nobody thought of is a new breed of politician. He this before? It’s so simple.

Instead of making separate laws for every little skips the step where he talks about dead-end topthing that is considered “crime,” why not make ics and gets right to the meat of the issues. He is crime as a whole against the law? Arrest rates honest, and he is faithful.

What more could you ask for when selecting a will plummet because citizens will no longer be president for the United States of America? confused as to what is legal and what is not.

“

More points on the ACT David Pisano staff writer

A

are pointless

CT class: $1000. ACT prep book: $25. Registration, early score report, extra college choices: $65. Spending all that time and money so you can get into a harder, more expensive school and pay more money just to struggle to pass classes: priceless?

Why is it that students across the country spend so much time and energy trying to master the mighty ACT and other standardized tests?

For most students it’s probably to get into the best school they can. For others, it may be to make themselves feel smarter than everyone else. And still for others, it may be to avoid looking like an idiot.

Whatever the reason, is it worth it? There are plenty of people with great test scores who have nothing to show for it, and there are plenty of people who didn’t even take the ACT who have accomplished great things.

Not too long ago, I saw a license plate with “ACT 35” on it. Congrats to him. He got a 35 on his ACT. He was also driving a ‘95 Kia. The money that people spend on this whole process isn’t the point. It’s

“

If, 20 years from now, your college and ACT score are still your source of self-esteem, you haven’t done much.”

the importance they attribute to the test, as if a (hopefully) two-digit number dictates how successful they’ll be.

Sure, you can get into a better school with a higher score, but if 20 years from now your college and ACT score are still your source of self-esteem, you haven’t done much.

Trying to figure out what to do on the weekend is much more relevant than sine and cosine. Riding around in a car with your friends doing absolutely nothing constructive will be worth way more than putting in a couple extra study hours by yourself at a desk.

This isn’t to say that you should completely blow it all off, but if you can’t get the score you need to get into a certain school, would you even be happy at that school?

So, if you’ve spent more time color coding note cards than you have making fun of your friend for his/her questionable hookups, I suggest you reevaluate your priorities.

Kim Wiesner designer

A guide to walking D

ear fellow students, I am writing you this letter because there are things about walking that you have yet to learn. Specifically, walking from one class to another in an eight foot wide space known as the hall. First, let’s discuss some of the categories of walkers that you might fit under.

You might be a slow walker. And that’s OK. As long as you aren’t in a group with all of your other slow walker friends taking up eight feet of horizontal space.

In case you didn’t put two and two together, if you and your slow walker friends are taking up eight feet of space in an eight foot wide hallway, there probably isn’t any room left for other students battling the currents of the hallway.

Just like in gym class or on the highway, please stay in the right lane. I realize there are not lanes painted out in the hallway but use your imagination.

If you’re not a slow walker, you might be a fast walker.

Congratulations. You are always in first place when you arrive to your classroom. Just be sure not to plow over any small children or animals on your way through the door.

One of my favorite types of walkers are the people who decide to hold their daily friend powwows in front of the doors near the middle stairwells. In case the space wasn’t small enough before, these bright young children choose to minimize space by forming clusters of volume that is too dense to walk through, too dense to talk to and generally an all-around place to want to avoid.

Please don’t gather in front of the middle stairwell.

It’s already crowded enough.

Another category of walker that I look forward to seeing every day is the people whose mind is going in one direction and their body in the other. Let’s call them backwards walkers.

Not sure if you fit into this category? You probably do if you are the type of person who begins to walk away from your group of friends in mid-conversation, but eager to still be a part of the conversation, you begin to multitask and talk and walk at the same time.

But you remember what your parents told you about manners, and you continue to look at the person you’re talking to. That’s nice and polite and everything, but there’s one thing you’re forgetting.

You’re not showing very nice manners to the person you’re walking into or the person you just smacked into when you turned around, and now things are just really awkward.

If you’re generally the person who gets knocked into all the time, you’re probably a shy walker. Or maybe you’re a freshman. Either way, you don’t have to take that kind of emotional embarrassment.

Next time someone is about to walk into you, step aside, hold out your leg and let gravity do the rest. It might be the most entertainment you get all day, especially if the reason you always get bumped into is because your eyes are locked on the ground.

In conclusion, my friends, remember that we are all trying as best we know how to get from point A to point B. Hopefully now we are all a little more educated in our hall-walking etiquette.

Sincerely, Kim Wiesner

“

One of my favorite types of walkers are the people who decide to hold their daily friend powwows in front of the doors near the middle stairwells.”

13

Tuesday, Febuary 27, 2007

The Squall

editorial

THE

Squall EDITOR-IN-CHIEF: Robert Kuzon MANAGING EDITOR: Austin Shapiro DESIGN: Kim Wiesner EDITORS FEATURES: Katie Fricke ENTERTAINMENT: Kelsey Schultz NEWS: Sydney Ross OPINIONS: Frank Dufek PHOTO: Maria Brundage SPORTS: Celia Kuzon COPY: Scott Campbell MANAGERS ADVERTISEMENT: Katie Johnson STAFF WRITERS Ryan Aliapoulios, Josh Ball, Kyle Boren, Michelle Chirby, Scott Crompton, Conor Daining, Caitlin Henderson Jake LaRosa, Hunter Lyons, Nic Miller, Rachel Moir, Brent Muse, Rawlin Myers, Charlie Pettit, David Pisano, Lisa Ritchie, Scott Sarver, Heather Siller, Krystyna Taheri, Sean Wallace, Ryan Winchester

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CARTOONIST: Luke Altomare ADVISER: Rod Satterthwaite

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.

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Michigan has gotten rid of the MEAP test, and in its place is another standardized test, the Michigan Merit Exam.

Juniors will still be the only ones who have to take the test, just like the MEAP. However, if you are not a junior, do not get too excited, because unlike previous years, you have to come to school at the normal time during the three days that juniors take the test.

In addition, the testing will take place on the third floor; therefore, all the teachers on the third floor will have to move from their classrooms to another classroom on a different floor during testing. This is a bad situation all around.

The fact that teachers on the third floor will have to move to other rooms for three hours out of the day to teach is illogical.

Would it not make a lot more sense if the school day were shortened three hours?

It would. Unfortunately, according to state law, students have to be in school for 1,050 hours. And we need everyone in school those three hours to meet that requirement.

In addition, with the juniors in all of the third floor classrooms, it makes it extremely difficult for all those teachers to find a place where they can effectively teach without being distracted by the over-crowdedness of the classroom that they had to squeeze into.

Also those classes that are a mix of juniors and other grades will likely not get anything productive done in the three hours the juniors are taking the Michigan Merit Exam. What teacher is going to want to conduct meaningful lessons if much of the

D RE ADS ’08

’07

Andrew Martin

“I feel that people who don’t have to take it should get to sleep in. I know last year I really liked coming in late.

It’s just unfair to make everyone come in early.

It’s kind of ridiculous.”

class is gone?

We recognize most of the problem is not within the district’s control. So if students still have to come to school, let us consider one of the following options.

Have students come to school at the normal time and for the first three hours have each class do something different. For instance, the seniors could go on a retreat, while the sophomores and freshman could have an assembly put on by their class leaders.

Alternatively, have a movie showing in the CPA and have stations set up around the commons, kind of like a mini-field day, but inside the school, so we can meet those state requirements.

Oh, how about this?

Add one minute onto each school day after those three testtaking days until nine hours is reached, making up for the nine hours we would lose by having a delayed start for three days during the exam.

One minute is not going to make any difference in the school day. In fact, adding one minute onto sixth hour might enable teachers to finish their sentence rather than having the bell ring and cut them off as students run out of the classroom.

The way the MME is being conducted, as of now, is illogical.

It does not make sense for teachers to have to leave their rooms and still try to teach.

It does not make sense to make everyone come to school while juniors are testing. But, if we have to give the test, let us try to do it in the least painful and disruptive way possible.

in the hall

Lauren Himle

“I feel as if my left arm has been squeezed in a vice.”

call

Michigan Merit Exam unnecessarily disrupts school

POLICY: The Squall is distributed monthly to 1,186 students and is estimated to reach 4,744 people with each issue. The Squall is printed by The Owosso Argus Press in Owosso, MI and produced by the fourth hour newspaper class.

E-MAIL letters@thesquall.com

Squall THE

“We don’t get a choice. The state said how many minutes of instruction are necessary, so we are doing this so we don’t have to in July. We do what we have to do.

Hopefully next year we can negotiate a different schedule so this isn’t a problem.”

Richard Grannis

-Science teacher-

Q: WHAT DO YOU THINK ABOUT THE CHANGE IN THE STATE’S TESTING FOR JUNIORS THIS YEAR?

’09

Matt Klein

“The change kinda sucks. It’s probably a hassle for all the teachers, and I’d like to sleep in.”

“The change sucks. Sleep is important, and it’s just too much of a hassle for everybody. I say screw it.”

’10

Erin Hubbard

14

Battle Bands

Tuesday, February 27, 2007

The Squall

photostory

Sean Wallace staff writer

Authority figures trembled in fear. The ambiance was pure excitement. The lights were in place and the mics were on. A battle, not of weapons and machine but of music, was about to take place. The bands were ready to rock the bricks off the wall.

Some, such as senior Zack Abbott take battle as a light affair in which to display their musical talents in front of a small crowd. “Battle rocks harder than anything,” Abbott, member of 6 Miles to Empty and Halogen Soldier, said.

Others see it as a gateway. “Battle is very important to my music career.” said senior Tom Neil from Halogen Soldier. “It helps our music to be heard by people other than our parents. My favorite part is playing in front of a live audience made up of peers.”

Neil said Halogen Soldier took their performance seriously and made sure they were ready when Battle of the Bands arrived.

“We practice about three hours a week and they’re all on Friday,” drummer and senior Jon Wike said.

As new bands like Final Domain and S & Gfunkel took the stage in the beginning, Halogen Soldier finished the night with a winning performance. Fortunately for them, the crowd increased in size as the night went on.

By the end the floor was near full, and S.P.A.C.E. advisor Deb Marsh was anxious to leave. Battle went way past the time limit. Marsh said, “I had a forensic tournament at six the next day, and I needed to get home.”

of the

Vintage

• In the Band: Lauren Wright, Georgia Myers, Chelsea Low and Graham Low • Fun Facts: Practices in Chelsea’s garage, been playing together since summer • Songs they play: “99 Luftballoons,” Bubba Sparxxx’s “Deliverance” • Songs they wrote: “Waiting” and “Burning”

Final Domain

• In the Band: John Germain, Mike Champange, Matt Janos and Marshall Geer • Fun Facts: New to Battle, been playing together for two months • Songs they play: Rage Against the Machine’s “Killing in the Name of”, “Feed the Fire” and “Systematic Breakdown”

Halogen Soldier

• In the Band: Tom Neil, Christian Henes, John Crist, Jon Wike and Zack Abbott • Fun Facts: Practices at Crist’s house, Neil plays the Ukelele, Scott Campbell used to be in the band • Songs they play: “Wasted time” and “Mystic Tour”

Photos by Ryan Winchester and Sean Wallace

7

Tuesday, February 27, 2007

The Squall

reviews

'dungeon master of ceremonies' Ryan Winchester staff writer

grade:C+

D

o you like movies for guys who like to watch movies? Do you like the song “Click Click Boom” by Saliva? Are you Paul Walker?

If so, you just might be extreme enough for “Smokin’ Aces.”

If you haven’t seen the film yet, there are only a few bits of information you need: there’s boobs and plenty of gore.

For those who really need it, there’s also a plot. It consists of multiple hitmen trying to kill one very important man named Israel.

Every hitman from Ben Afleck to Chris Pine wants the cash reward for the kill so they end up killing each other in their attempts.

Ray Liotta and Van Wilder (also known as Ryan Reynolds but there is no reason he is in this movie) are cops trying to stop them. And if you like cool little twists, there’s a few of those as well.

Director Joe Carnahan didn’t do much new with this film. It is mostly old material previously used in other extreme action flicks such as “Miami Vice” and

I

n “High Fidelity” Nick Hornby writes a contemporary story about a gent who doesn’t learn from the mistakes of his past. Protagonist Rob Fleming is an average, 35-yearold guy living in London as a record shop owner. Throughout the novel, the reader gets the down low on Fleming’s perspective on his most heart-wrenching former relationships and how they are the reason for all of his current troubles, both personal and professional. In the beginning of the novel, the reader learns about Fleming’s past heartaches and then about his current relationship heartache.

Fleming has a repetitive pattern of infidelity within his relationships, which he reveals to the reader in a nonchalant manner, as if everyone has felt the need to screw at least one of their best friend’s girlfriends. Although the struggling record shop owner is pompous about his own vast knowledge of the music world, he is in obvious need of knowledge in the relationship department.

Even though Fleming isn’t impressive financially, his love for music is genuine and kind of makes up for the downhill track his life has taken. The reader relates to the characters that Horn-

'High Fidelity' Heather Siller staff writer

grade: A

T

he Grand Traverse Pie Company is a relatively new addition to the area. The restaurant features a large variety of fresh-baked pies, as well as cookies, muffins, brownies and myriad other pastries.

They also offer sandwiches, salads, soups, wraps and breakfast foods. Diners walking into the restaurant are greeted by a pleasant sight.

Warm and relaxing colors cover the walls. Smooth jazz plays quietly in the background. Booths and tables cover the floor of the interior, which is divided off into different sections. A gas fireplace burns against one wall.

Large windows allow for a lot of natural light. The tables and floor are spotless. To order food, customers walk to the front counter where a server waits behind the register to pleasantly take your order. There is a large open space behind the counter that is occupied by the kitchen.

A display of tasty confections line the counter on the right, allowing patrons to browse the various baked goods before making a decision. Once a selection is made, clientele selects whatever beverage and eating utensils they want and sit to enjoy their meal.

MOVIE

'Smokin Aces' Conor Daining staff writer

by creates; they are archetypes that show the aspects of many friendships and relationships. When Fleming’s current girlfriend Laura dumps him for another guy, Fleming proceeds to explain to the reader how the break up isn’t even in his top five most memorable split-ups. Fleming is constantly making lists.

He makes them for his top five favorite records of all time to his top five most desired careers. Fleming spends his time after the latest breakup analyzing his past relationships and trying to figure out what it all meant by contacting all five women from his top five most memorable breakups and asking them what he lacked in the relationship. Fleming’s analysis makes him into a new man with the same life but a new perspective.

When he encounters his ex-girlfriend Laura, he attempts to restart their relationship with his improved personality. Hornby’s rendition of an average male in his prime is right on the ticket. Fleming’s alternative style, stolid personality and lack of polish in his relationships, both romantic and platonic, make the novel a must-read. It’s like being inside your deadbeat boyfriend’s head and understanding why he make the decisions he does.

The pies are made from scratch, right at the restaurant. The apple pie is exquisite, and the cherry is sweet and delightful. It’s real fruit, with no artificial coloring or flavors added, which only adds to the experience. The chocolate chip cookies set a new standard for excellence.

All in all, the baked goods offered by the Pie Company are among the best money can buy.

However, buyers will need a lot of money. Whole pies are $12.99, and individual slices are $2.99. Sandwiches, soups and salads are between $6-7 dollars. The non-pastry selection at the pie company is good, but the same quality can be found for a bit less at other places. The pies are good enough to warrant their price, but you might want to avoid going there too often, or you’ll find your finances hurting.

Despite the higher-than-average prices, the pastry selection offered by the Grand Traverse Pie Company is without a doubt the best in the area. It’s near by, located on the corner of Zeeb and I-94. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere, a helpful staff and a wide selection off goods. Overall it’s a great place to be.

FOOD

Grand Traverse Pie Co. Luke Altomare staff writer

BY LUKE ALTOMARE

DEXTER

“Crank”.

It does introduces one truly new idea though, the idea that a lot of people can die yet come back alive.

Without powerful witchcraft this really blew my mind. FBI agents and maniacal hitmen riddle each other with clip after clip and die ... for a while.

Then they have their “last” words and their health continues to improve.

I went in with some low expectations, I’ll admit that.

I expected quotes such as, “You want a piece of me,” or, “I feel like you’re eyeballin’ me, dawg!” (And there were).

And I didn’t expect the action, characters or situations to be real, so why am I ranting about it?

Because maybe someone should make a movie with some action, nudity and twists that doesn’t suck.

It can’t be that hard. Just grab Robert DeNiro, Al Pacino, some porn stars and have people die when they get shot. Done.

Smokin’ Aces passes as a sub-par movie but only because Alicia Keys is a fox.

grade: B+

BOOK

significantly due to copyright law, but the demo is available for free on his web site, mcchris.com.

With more gaming references than you can shake a Wiimote at, “Kingdom Farts” combines high tempo break beats and synth with rhythm guitar and mc’s excellent flow. Just as any self-respecting hair metal band would do, there are two ballads of sorts on the album. “Wiid” is an anti-every-other-drug song and “Arulapragasam,” a word that would surprise everyone if mc could pronounce or give a definition for, in short, is about trying to find a lady to “make my life less lame.”

Throughout the album there are comedy skits including a tale of a drunk mc discussing his new album and a record executive who hires men to kill him at a red carpet event and his subsequent meeting of Jesus in heaven after he’s killed. Yes, it is as ridiculous as it sounds, very well written, voiced and hilarious.

Lyrically, this is by far mc chris’ best work. Production wise, it leaves something to be desired and could’ve been a bit longer with less time devoted to the skits. It’s not mc chris’ best work overall, but it is still a solid album to go with the rest of them.

grade: B

D

MUSIC

oes someone with a high pitched voice who used to be a voice for a cartoon character on “Aqua Teen Hunger Force” who is now a fulltime nerd core rapper interest you? If you have any idea what that means, you already know who this is. And if you don’t, you’re in for a treat. mc chris (he says his name is not capitalized to give respect to “real MCs”) is Chris Ward from Illinois. He’s written for “Sealab 2021” and “The Brak Show” on adult swim and has done voices for “Aqua Teen” as MC Pee Pants and “Sealab” as Hesh.

Until recently, mc has been hostile to those who consider him part of the nerdcore rap movement, claiming he doesn’t want to be classified in a specific genre because he feels his music is “Just mc.” But he has recently apologized to anyone he may have been offended by these comments and is now open arms with the community.

His latest album “dungeon master of ceremonies,” is the fourth album since his 2001 debut and is in great company with the rest of them. The opening track, “FTW,” a popular Internet acronym for ‘For The Win,’ is a very anthematic song, a common move for mc. The original demo sampled “Gary Glitters’ Rock and Roll part 2” but had to be changed

8

Tuesday, February 27, 2007

The Squall

the spread

s ’ e r e h T n i ” i “ o n Huddle-up: The team huddles up in front of the fans to get them pumped up for the game. This is a routine ritual before every game for the team.

Hot shot: Senior Johnny Benjamin takes another shot during the Chelsea game.

The Dreadnaughts lost to Chelsea 58-53

Photo by Laura Merz

Turley plays for a season Kyle Boren staff writer

Photo by Laura Merz

Dread Army: Students dress up for one of the biggest game of the year against Chelsea. Even though the game was away many students still came dressed in camouflage to show their support.

About a year ago senior Matt Turley was injured from the previous football season and lacked the confidence to even tryout for the varsity basketball team, which meant during his junior year he did not get to play a sport he enjoyed so much.

But this year, Turley gained back his confidence and determination to tryout. He made the team and is one of the power players.

There are numerous reasons he didn’t try out last year. “I just did not think I would make the team, and I still had a pretty bad injury from the previous football season,” Turley said.

“I played freshmen and junior varsity basketball and made each team. I did not think I could play at the varsity level when I was a junior.”

But this year was different. “I love basketball and enjoy it a lot. Now that I’m on the varsity team, it’s cooler,” he said. “I also grew in confidence a bunch as opposing from last year.”

He said there are many benefits to being on the

team. He cited all th including one of his vak.

“He is just real c Turley said. He also the team.

“If I had to ch would say that w (Randy)Swoverland on sophomore Ryan ‘It’s real funny,” he sa And his teammate great to have on the t One of the team’s nior James Nati, said important part of the is a valuable asset to far in the season,” h puts out a good effo in practice and in the Nati also commen court, saying, “He is r is fun to have him on

Photo by Laura Merz

• Pisano

David Pisano

Robert Kuzon

Ryan Lemasters

Favorite class? Newspaper

Favorite coach you have played for? Scott Stark

Favorite NBA team?

Pistons

Favorite food? Chicken wings

Favorite Movie? “American Pie”

What sports do you play?

Football and basketball

• Kuzon

Favorite part about this years season? The camaraderie between my teammates and I

Favorite part about this years season? Running victories

Fun fact: Got a “B” in physical education freshman year

Most played song on your ipod? “Fly in” by Lil’ Wayne

Favorite college basketball team? Villanova

Where are you going to college? University of Dayton

•Lemasters

Favorite part of this year’s season? Playing home games on Friday nights with everyone watching and having a chance to beat Chelsea.

Favorite Food? Pasta Favorite teacher? Mr. Lindke

9

Tuesday, February 27, 2007

The Squall

the spread

Photo Illustration by Maria Brundage

Throwin’ it up: Senior James Nati takes it to the hoop. Nati is one of the five starters on the team.

Photo by Maria Brundage

n after overcoming an injury

Junior Don Knight agrees but for a little different reason. “We have shared some pretty good memories on the bench this season, since we do not play all that cool and easy to get along with,” much,” Knight said. cited all of the good memories of Swoverland said he did not want to talk to a Squall reporter about Turley.

Regardless Turley said he is hoose one I when Coach enjoying his time on the basketfreaks out ball team.

He is really fun to n Lemasters.

“It is definitely a good time,” hang out with and aid. he said. “We have good team it is fun to have him chemistry, and we’re all pretty es think he is on the team.” good friends.” team.

He cited team dinners and captains, sed Turley is an hanging out together as some - James Nati, e group. “He of the best parts of being on the senior o the team so team. he said. “He “We just all got together and ort every day talked about the game we had e games.” ahead, and they were cool bonding,” Turley said.

“I think we have a lot more fun then other teams nted on his characteristics off the really fun to hang out with, and it do,” he said. “I am enjoying it a lot, and I’m glad I tried n the team.” out this year and made the team.”

he new friends the team gave him, better friends, junior Kevin No-

“

Photo by Maria Brundage

Ballin’ to the hoop: Senior Johnny Benjamin goes for a lay-up during the Saline game on Friday, Feb 10. The Dreadnaughts won the game 50-46. The team’s record is 11-4 as of Feb. 14.

T.J. Fenske Favorite part of this year’s season? Playing against Chelsea • Fenske

How long have you been playing basketball for? Since third grade Favorite TV show? “Sports Center” Favorite food? Macaroni and cheese What kind of car do you drive?

Chevy Impala

Johnny Benjamin

James Nati

Favorite movie? “Lion King”

Where are you going to college? University of Michigan

Favorite class? PE • Benjamin

Favorite part of this years season? When James Nati wears his corderoy pants Favorite college basketball team? Kansas Favorite sport? Football

• Nati

Favorite part of this years season? Going on the radio Favorite restaraunt?

Burger King Favorite class? Humanities Most played song on your iPod? “Back like that” by Ghostface Killah & Ne-Yo

10

Tuesday, February 27, 2007

The Squall

sports

Cole Burgess excels in snowboarding Nic Miller staff writer

As he stood at the top of mountain looking down at the largest jump he was ever going to attempt to land, freshman Cole Burgess was stoked.

“One time (in Mt. Hood, Oregon), I hit my head going off a 70 foot jump and did not know what was happening for 10 minutes,” Burgess said, “I was talking to random people, and I don’t remember it.”

Burgess said he blacked out for a few seconds and, once he regained he consciousness, was told that he was carrying on random conversations with these people that made no sense.

To this day Burgess said he still remembers only bits and pieces of what happened for those 10 minutes.

What he does remember from the accident was crashing onto the landing and feeling the sensation of spinning and remembering that his goggles were cracked.

“Everyone was asking me questions,” he said. “I was confused, I couldn’t even say the ABC’s. For the rest of the day whenever I moved my head, it hurt.”

Snow boarding has given Burgess many new experiences and has influenced his life greatly. “Snow boarding has changed the way I live, my entire view on life has changed, like no worries,” he said.

Burgess said he developed an instant love for snow boarding when one of his old friends from Ypsilanti introduced him to the sport.

“On a hill in Ypsi, my friend Snowboarding has let me try (snow boarding) and changed the way I fell on my head.”

And while many others I live. My entire would have immediately quit view on life has and gone on to find something changed.” that they were naturally good at, Burgess stuck with it and - Cole Burgess, his passion grew for the sport.

And in his case it paid to freshman stick with it. Burgess is now one of the top snow boarders in the state and has even attracted a few sponsors, such as Signal and Red Belly Board shop.

Burgess’ profile on Signal’s Street Team can be viewed at http:// www.signalsnowboards.com/signal.asp .

Red Belly Board shop helps Burgess out with minor snow boarding necessities, other odds and ends and gives him a discount on equipment. Signal sends him a new board whenever he needs one.

“Usually you go to competitions to get sponsors and do sweet stuff,” he said. “But Red Belly hooked me up.” Burgess said Red Belly called Signal and praised his skills.

Once Signal heard of such high praise, they took Burgess on as part of their street team and an official sponsor.

His snow boarding skills do come at price, though, as he has had to give up some of his other loves such as basketball to be a competitive snow boarder. Since both are in the winter season, snow boarding won out.

To be a competitive snow boarder Burgess said he must focus all his attention and free time to snow boarding leaving almost no time for anything else.

“Yeah it was hard to give up,” Burgess said of other activities he was involved in. “But I love snow boarding because there is no right or wrong. It’s not like high school or high school sports, nobody cares what you do.”

“

Photo courtesy of Cole Burgess

Ruggers hopeful for upcoming season Charlie Pettit staff writer

Rugby has the reputation of being a hard-nosed and chaotic sport played by Europeans, but it somehow found a home in Dexter.

“There aren’t any pads to protect you, and the game never stops,” junior Shane Wright said. “I’ve had two concussions, a hyper-extended elbow, and I blew my knee out in my first scrimmage.

However, “when the ending whistle blows and the battle ends,” junior Pat Farrell said, “we go and eat food with the other team and just hang out.”

But something about rugby keeps the players coming back for more. “The first kickoff is the best part of the games,” junior Mark Bertsos said. “It’s fun to run down the field and tackle people.”

But Farrell plays for other reasons. “The camaraderie of the team is the best part,” he said.

Regardless of why students play, the team has begun to make a name for itself.

It won the Division 3 state championship in its first year.

In their second season, the team placed second in Division 2 as well as winning the Michigan Cup tournament.

“I don’t believe our first two seasons could have gone any better besides key players getting injured,” Wright said.

This season will be the club’s first year without the founders of the club, Marshal

The

WORD

SMITH

Press

Simons and Jon Williamson, though, which worries Wright a little.

“Winning will be pretty hard without (Simons and Williamson),” he said. “We’ll have to play more as a team this year.”

So with such success in their first two seasons, some players think that it’s fair for rugby to become a school recognized sport season.

“We definitely should be (a school sport). We have just as many athletes as other school sports and other schools recognize it as a school sport,” Bertsos said.

However, Athletic Director John Robinson said, “Public education in Michigan is looking for every way to cut funding. We (Dexter) don’t have any money to add new teams or even financially support them. There are possibilities of some programs actually getting cut. It would be a lot easier to add the team if other schools in the Southeastern Conference had rugby teams. Money is just the biggest factor right now.”

But whether they are an offered school sport or not doesn’t seem to matter to most players.

The new season is right around the corner, and they are starting to prepare with conditioning and practice during the week in the high school gym.“We really need to beat Brighton and Rockford this year,” Bertsos said. “I’m looking forward to it.”

The Devils didn’t have many home games in the past seasons due to being new to the league, but that is apparently changing this season.

“Everyone needs to come out and support us this year,” Farrell said. “There are a lot of hard hits and excitement.”

Since 1998, The Wordsmith Press has put out many small volumes of poetry and tall tales by some of the best performance poets and storytellers in the country. In 2000, The Wordsmith Press began to produce CDs of the performances of these artists.

www.thewordsmithpress.com

Junior Pat Farrell: “When the ending whistle blows and the battle ends, we go and eat food with the other team and just hang out.”