September 2010

Inside This Issue

Summer Music p.8

Girls’ Swim Team p.4Another year; another phenomenal girls swim team. Come meet the squad who was undefeated in league play last year. Who knew Falcons could swim?

A rundown of the summer’s top bands. With the repertoire spanning from Arcade Fire to

the Wavves, it’s sure to inspire some iPod enhancement.

September 2010 - Volume 73 - Issue 1

180 S. Livernois - Rochester High School - Rochester Hills MI, 48307

The calendar says it is September 7, 2010, the first day of school. Everybody is ready for the start of a new school year. The white boards are cleaned and the floors are as shiny as can be. The same holds true for English teacher Mr. Frank Gollon - except he seemed to be missing something: theatre.

“Oh, it was a shocker to say the least,” English teacher Mr. Gollon said about not teaching theater this year, which is being

Electives temporarily Snuffed

Some people are outraged. Some people are disappointed. Some people are excited. When

talking about electives, it’s clear many people have different feelings. Some teachers that

have been teaching a certain class for many years are now finding different classes on their

schedules. Starting with this year, unpopular electives are subject to undergo a teacher swap, a sudden

change in classroom setting, or even the threat of not being offered to students at all for the year.

has been cut back or cut completely. “I can’t really tell you because …

[electives] are fluctuating every year based on what kids want to take,” Ms. Zdeb said. “Nothing has been cut or removed from our curriculum offering. And it is really generated on what student interest is, and if we don’t have enough kids to run a class, we don’t.”

Aaron Kuhnwebsite editor

With the start of this school year, one can easily find changes, the new lunch system and the presence of security guards to name a few. But despite rumors that seem to be widespread throughout the school, electives have not really been changed.

“[Electives] are 100 percent based on how many sections we run, which is based on students’ requests,” principal Ms. Wendy Zdeb said. “So, we need enough

student requests to run a section, or to possibly make two or more sections.”

In most situations, if a class has less than 28 students sign up for it, the

class will not run. Exceptions to that are the school newspaper,

Changes in Theatre

E2020 and Michigan Virtual classes

Classes not offered this school year

taught by choir teacher Mrs. Jolene Plotzke. “But it comes down to a staffing issue and in terms of where they have to plug people in.”

While Mr. Gollon isn’t teaching theater, he’s confident that the theater program will still be a great experience for students.

“She’s going to be fine,” Mr. Gollon said. “She’s passionate about anything she approaches. And I know she is going to work her tail off to be sure it’s a viable working experience for students.”

And though Mr. Gollon is still the sponsor of the Rochester Alliance of Theatrical Students and still directing the musicals and plays, there is one thing he will miss.

“Just being able to see that growth of students because … they’re incredibly nervous and frightened about any aspect of being up in front of an audience,” Mr. Gollon said. “And to see that growth from the first day to the last day when on that last day they are actually presenting scenes, they memorized lines and playing characters, it’s really special. And, in the number of years, the students that have contacted me out of high school saying how valuable that class was for them in job interviews or class presentations. That’s one of the things I’m going to miss most.”

[E2020] will give students an opportunity to explore career choices. [E2020] offers classes we don’t have, for example, game design.

Mrs. Lisa Newman,Assistant Principal

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I feel like I’m going to lose the opportunity to take classes that will help me be successful in life and ones that will be be useful to me in life since I want to start a small business.

Tom Tapner, sophomore

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I didn’t know what to expect with there being a new [theatre] teacher. The class is great; it’s fun and entertaining. I’ve learned a lot about life and theatre.

Claire Morin, junior

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school store, yearbook and, up until last year, men’s choir.

“[Getting rid of men’s choir] totally eliminates a freshman level learning opportunity and instead we thrust kids into the middle level,” Mrs. Plotzke said. “[Where the men’s choir] is a safe environment because if a male doesn’t have a changed voice there’s something for them to sing. … You’ll see a drastic drop in choir numbers next year, probably around 25 percent.”

The business department also had classes that did not run this year; small business management and marketing were not run because a teacher could not be found to teach those classes, according business teacher Mrs. Laure Gambaro. With that, Mrs. Gambaro believes it will lead to a drop in numbers year after year.

“How are we supposed to get kids interested?” Mrs. Gambaro said. “The classes will be out of sight and out of mind. We think that there is a lack of understanding for voc. Education, and we feel slighted because we don’t get the respect of the core four classes: English, math, history and science.”

Mrs. Gambaro hoped that students with those and other business classes on their alternate list would be contacted to try to convince them to take that class, possibly allowing those classes to reach 28 or more and be ableto run. But many believe that all electives are going to lose numbers due to strict graduation requirements.

“Student schedules don’t have a lot of flexibility in them,” Mr. Gollon said. “Especially freshman and sophomore year; you’re pretty much blocked in. Unless we could figure out a way to create a seventh hour or go to a trimester plan, all electives are getting hit.”

While many traditional electives are losing numbers due to a growing number of students opting to take a world language or AP, nothing

On the other hand, new classroom

opporunities were added this year. Students can now sign up to take an E2020 class or Michigan Virtual class during the school year.

“I think these are exciting opportunities for students because E2020 gives students different ways to learn and to take advantage of being able to try in high school some of this online learning that they may want to try in college,” assistant principal Mrs. Lisa Newman said. “And now ... they are getting that opportunity to see if it’s something they like.”

E2020 is based on the Rochester Community School curriculum that allows students to earn credit or make up credit if they have failed a class.

“We’re going to use what we call a blended situation,” Mrs. Newman said. “So for instance, if you are having trouble in chemistry and balancing chemical equations, then one’s teacher can have you go down to the Academic Center, give you a password and access to E2020. And this program will also go through and give you another chance to teach and re-teach it to you.”

Students can also sign up to take a Michigan Virtual class, which is completely online. One of those students is senior Josh Sykes, who is taking c-plusplus, a computer programming and programming language class.

“I’m on the RHS robotics team,” Sykes said. “So, it’s useful knowledge to have that extra set of computer programming skills we need to program the robot. And I work with computers, so it’s useful it you want to go into engineering.”

“Students and faculty weigh in

Graphics by Max Kleiner

News2 Talonthe

September 2010

The Rochester school board votes to begin the transition into a valedictorian free system. New brackets are set. Students have new goals to reach and higher standards to meet.

“There was a large consensus,” math teacher Mrs. Sue Zaleski said, “[That] things shouldn’t depend solely on GPA and our committee didn’t want to hurt kids who challenge themselves by taking difficult classes. Students shouldn’t feel like one A- keeps them out of the running.”

The committee’s goal of relieving GPA standards is exactly what some students were hoping for.

“I never really thought of myself as being valedictorian or top scholar,” freshman Sydney Kerre said. “But now I don’t think it’s too impossible. I could probably make it.”

Freshman Brooke Keeley shares the sentiments of her fellow classmate.

“It seems like a good idea to me,” Keeley said. “It gives more people opportunities.”

The new system allows students to see exactly what is required to qualify as a Rochester scholar. Mrs. Zaleski said this allows kids to compete with themselves and not the unknown grades of their peers. However, developing these new standards was no easy task.

“The process required tons of research,” Mrs. Zaleski said. “Our

New standards made for students

Senior Gabe Gibbs is already overwhelmed by his two AP classes, Statistics and Psychology. Photo by Taylor Holmes

The graduating class for 2014 will be ranked by a new system, not based purely on grade point average

committee researched lots of schools in Michigan and picked out what we liked, met with parents and students to get feedback, and then brought it to the board. It was hard for everyone to move their opinions out of the way and understand the fairest thing was to set a target that doesn’t move. The system was developed from compromise.”

The journey to the new concession was not easy one, and some students don’t agree with every standard that’s been set.

“My least favorite part is the ACT requirement since some kids are smart but don’t take standardized tests well,” senior Brittany Taylor said. “I hope serious students still take advantage of the space left in their schedules for electives and extra curriculars. But it’s good that I don’t see any loopholes for slacker students; there seems to be no real way to fake it, which is good.”

2009 alumni Richard Yoon, a sophomore at the Massachussets Institute of Technology, agrees.

“I think it’s a good program that will motivate many students to work harder,” Yoon said. “Also I think this program is fair for students who take many AP classes. But I find it kind of messy. What if a student has a four point or three nine GPA but has a low ACT score? Does this mean he or she doesn’t even get to be mentioned as a top scholar?”

Although AP classes are now especially important, some believe that it’s good to include electives.

“Colleges appreciate students with a balance of rigor and fun,” Mrs. Zaleski said.

Yoon agrees, but also thinks that titles and distinctions aren’t most important. Instead he feels learning is the greatest reward.

“I wanted to learn, wanted to challenge myself as much as I could,”

Yoon said. “I wanted to become involved in numerous clubs, sports, and activities, and just experience new things and enjoy life. It wasn’t about the name or distinction I got. Those awards are all in a box in my closet but the experiences I gained and lessons I learned from working hard and challenging myself are with me 24-7.”

Teachers also want students to challenge themselves.

“Work as hard as you can,” Mrs. Zaleski said, “And know that you can have and be the best.”

During the 2009-2010 school year, RHS did not meet “Adequate Yearly Progress” (AYP). This was the second year in a row that the school didn’t make AYP, but last year was due to a clerical error. Now, teachers and administrators are working to correct errors made and improve this school year, but many find themselves questioning the process entirely.

“To make AYP, a school must test 95 percent of its students in total and in each required student subgroup defined by the federal law,” principal Ms.. Wendy Zdeb said. “The school must attain the target achievement goal in English language arts and mathematics. In addition, the school must meet or exceed the other academic indicators set by the state: graduation rate for high schools and attendance rate for elementary and middle schools.”

But due to an avoidable mistake, Rochester’s scores did not meet the required participation rate.

“Although we had 97 percent of our students actually sit for the exam, a small number of tests were rendered ‘unscorable’ due to a procedural error in the test administration,” Ms. Zdeb said. “When this was discovered late in May, the District immediately filed a series of appeals to MDE which ultimately ended in a letter rejecting our appeal by the state superintendent.”

Disappointment in last year’s events got many thinking about how the process works.

“AYP isn’t based on the competence of your school, it’s based on whether or not you have progressed from one year to the next,” history teacher Mr.. Marc Compton said. “For example, a school that has an achievement score of a 50 one year that raises it to a 51 the next year will have made AYP, where a school that is at 96 one year and then drops to a 95 the next year does not qualify as having made AYP.”

As a result, some teachers think it could be approached in a better fashion.

“[I wonder] why don’t they measure the AYP based on how each individual class performs,” Mr. Compton said. “For example, is it fair that we compare this year’s juniors to last year’s juniors? Why don’t we gauge how much progress a class has made from the

Adequate Yearly Progress not met for second year in a row

The Academic Center (AC) has had many changes this year with the ultimate goal of expanding their horizons to a wider mix of students.

“With the new AC, we’ve combined our services, so now all students can come down here for help,” learning consultant Mrs. Aubrey Trimble said. “Sometimes students don’t understand a subject the way it’s taught in class. The Academic Center offers one-on-one teaching for students struggling in any area.”

The AC, formerly known as the Learning Center, is not just held in one room anymore. The AC has expanded its capacity by adding two more rooms, each with its own specialties. There’s one room for math and science, another for English and history, and the third room, known as the flex room, can be used for test-taking and finishing homework during lunch.

“We have a lot to offer this year,” Mrs. Hare, a teacher in the AC, said. “We can assist with daily homework as well as re-teach any areas a student may be struggling in. We can also help students prepare for ACT tests and improve their test taking skills ... This year anyone seeking help can come. You no longer have to be listed as a Learning Center student. It’s open all day including lunch hours. We try to have somebody knowledgeable

Learning Center evolves into new Academic Center

about each subject here at all times.”The addition of new staff members ensures

that students can get the help they need. This also allows for more students to be in the AC at a time. The better teacher to student ratio helps students learn more efficiently. Contrary to a regular class with 30 or more students and only one teacher, the AC allows the teachers to spend more time with each individual student and make sure they learn the concepts.

“The Academic Center is a good place for freshmen who are having trouble getting used to high school,” Mrs. Trimble said.

However, the AC isn’t just for learning. Many students visit to sharpen other academic needs.

“The Academic Center is better for learning,” freshman Eddie Alexander said. “I usually come for organization skills, but I think it helps improve my grades a little bit too.”

Alexander said he likes the staff members and would recommend other students come too.

The best times to come to the AC are during lunch, or class after teachers are finished with instructions. The center also welcomes students after school as long as they inform a learning consultant beforehand. If you want to stop by, the rooms are as follows: B121 for history and English, C120 is the flex room for test-taking and C121 is for math and science

“We try to help students do the best they can in school,” Mrs. Hare said. “Our main goal is to make sure students stay on track and keep their grades up.”

Students studying and doing homework in the math and science room of the Academic Center. Photo by Brian Palmer

previous year for AYP?” Unfortunately AYP participation and

scoring can have a negative snowball effect on a school.

“For many districts, [AYP] can determine whether or not they receive funding and whether or not the government steps into their buildings and changes the way they are run,” English teacher Ms. Jean Wood said. “Also, a school that does not meet AYP is listed as a ‘failing’ school. No school wants such a reputation.”

However, Ms. Wood says RHS shouldn’t let this error get in the way of future progress.

“For us, we just need to continue to do what it is we do best at RHS, which is teach and learn,” Ms. Wood said. “We do it every day. It is my personal belief that Rochester is not a failing school. I am a product of RHS as well and I take great pride in being an alumni and a teacher. We need to remember that the amazing work we do everyday is proof enough that we are far from a failing school.”

When it comes to how to approach AYP this school year, Ms. Zdeb agrees.

“We will continue to provide all students with a rigorous curriculum and put supports in place to help all students to succeed,” Ms. Zdeb said. “In addition to AYP and school report cards, this is the first year that the State of Michigan has compiled a ‘Top to Bottom’ list which ranks all schools in the State of Michigan. RHS is listed in the top 85 percent in the State. There is not a single category in which we did not show progress. This is something that the staff, students and parents should be very proud of.”

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We just need to continue what we do best at RHS, which is teach and learn ... It is my personal belief that RHS is not a failing school.

Ms. Jean Wood,English teacher

Requirements for each Scholar

Scholar of Highest Distinction:Students need a GPA of 3.9-4.0, 4 AP classes and a ACT score of 32 or higher

Scholar of Distinction:Students need a GPA of 3.8, 3 AP classes and have a ACT sore of 28 or higher

Scholar of Achievement:Students need a GPA of 3.5, 2 AP classes and have a ACT score of 26 or higher

Feature 3Talonthe

September 2010

Teen car crashes on the riseAs junior Haley Evans turned her

car left onto Barclay Circle, she never imagined anything would go wrong. But on the other side of the road, a car ran a stop sign. They were headed straight at Evans’ car.

Panicking, Evans honked her car horn and swerved in an attempt to avoid the crash. Despite her best efforts, the car slammed into Evans’s passenger side, causing one of Evans’s passengers to be knocked unconscious. A boy in the other car broke his arm. Although Evans escaped unharmed, she said she was terrified.

“I saw the car hitting and it all happened in slow motion,” Evans said. “I was frozen and clenched the wheel.”

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, teenage car accidents, similar to the one Evans was in, are not uncommon. In 2008, about 3,500 teens in the United States aged 15-19 were killed and more than 350,000 were injured enough to be treated in emergency departments for injuries suffered in motor-vehicle crashes.

Police Liaison Officer Deputy Alyssa Gooding said she is aware of the consequences involved with car crashes.

“You could severely injure someone,” Gooding said. “You could also get ticketed if you are at fault, appear in court, or pay a fine. If you injure someone you could even get a felony charge.”

Freshman JonMarco Cloutier said he recognizes the high percentage of teen car accidents.

“I think teens take too much for granted and they’re rushing,” Cloutier said. “Teens have cell phones and new cars and are just not ready.”

According to Gooding, there are multiple reasons for car accidents.

“Drugs and alcohol are a factor,” Gooding said. “They could be under the influence. Or teens are inexperienced.”

Cloutier said he can imagine distractions he will face as a teenage driver.

“[My] cell phone [would be a distraction] for sure,” said Cloutier. “If it buzzes I immediately want to check it. I play my music loud too. Also, having friends in the car is a distraction.”

The new Michigan restricted driving laws have had an impact of the number of accidents, Gooding said.

“It’s more helpful,” Gooding said. “It gives a police officer more control and we can refer you back [to a lower level] if we feel you are an inexperienced driver.”

Theresa Evans, the mother of a student who was in a car crash, said she remembers what it felt like to arrive at the scene of her daughter’s car accident.

“As I pulled up, I saw three police cars and two ambulances,” Mrs. Evans said. “I got even more scared.”

Haley Evans said her driving has changed a bit since the accident.

“I make everyone wear a seat belt,” Evans said. “I am a more defensive driver.”

Talon staff win awards atMIPA summer workshop

Senior Carla Ramirez watched as Dead Rats hopefuls tried their hardest to make the cut onto the 2010-2011 improv team.

This year, with Ramirez as captain, the Dead Rats have more to think about than party quirks or lines in their pockets: competition from Stoney Creek and Adams. Although the Dead Rats are faced with two new teams in the district, Ramirez said they remain cool under the collar.

“The team isn’t really about competing, we have only really competed at the Go Comedy Improv Theatre in Ferndale,” Ramirez said. “Despite that, I think it’s safe to say that we’re pretty comfortable with the shows we’ve put on at our school.”

Although the Dead Rats aren’t too worried about competition, junior co-captain Sarah McEneaney states the differences between the three teams.

“We’re funnier ... and far more attractive,” McEneaney said. “We’re very good at working with and playing off each other. Also, we have no weaknesses. None.”

School rivalries aside, the Dead Rats and the improv teams from neighboring schools plan on collaborating in the future.

“We’re looking into having all three teams participating in one show,” Ramirez said. “We would have a show at each school, and we would keep the profits from the show at our school only. [The Dead Rats] are funny alone, so I can’t imagine what a show would be like with three teams.”

In addition to new competition, the Dead Rats just added several new team members to their ranks.

“I’m really excited to be able to show off my sense of humor,” senior Trevor Johnson said. “I love to make people laugh, and I can’t wait for the first show.”

Even with all the new changes happening to the team this year, Ramirez said she remains hopeful.

“I love that every member on our team is unique, and contributes with a different sense of humor,” Ramirez said. “Some of the people never cease to amaze me with their ability to react quickly during games. They also reach out to a wide variety of audiences with their humor.”

Improv team gains rivals

During the first week of August, the several members of the Talon staff attended a summer workshop at Michigan State University offered by the Michigan Interscholastic Press Association (MIPA). Many of the staff members walked away with awards for their hard work, including two Spartan Awards, the highest award offered for students at the workshop.

“I won a Spartan for feature coverage,” junior Emily Hayward said. “At the beginning, I felt like I was failing. Everyone there was highly experienced, and the workload was heavy. But I really worked hard to compile my interviews and get my work in on time. When they started listing off all of the winners for the Excellence Awards and my name wasn’t called, I just figured I didn’t win anything. I was so surprised when they called me; it was such an honor.”

While Hayward and alumni James Giardina were the only two staff members to be awarded the Spartan, several other Talon members were also recognized. Juniors Nate Barton, Aaron Kuhn, Katie Ziraldo, Melanie Sweet and senior Amy Mackens all received Awards of Excellence for their classes.

“I was really surprised when they called my

During a car accident on August 9, junior Haley Evans’s car was hit from the side by another vehicle. The accident, which occurred while Evans was turning left onto Barclay Circle, resulted in damage to the right side of the car. Junior Brianne Seefeldt, who was a passenger in Evans’ car, was knocked unconscious, and a teenage boy in the other car broke his arm. Photo Courtesy of Haley Evans

Junior Brianne Seefeldt sits on top of the car minutes after the accident. Photo Courtesy of Haley Evans

What is a Level 1 License?It allows teens to drive with a legal guardian (someone who has a license and is over the age of 21)What is needed?•The teen must be 14 years and 8 months old•24 hours of in-class instruction•4 hours of observation•6 hours of driving

Junior Melanie Sweet accepts an Award of Excellence for the Illustrator and Infographics class. Photo Courtesy of Rod Satterthwaite

Senior Amy Mackens accepts an Excellence award for the You’re Designing the Newspaper class. Photo Courtesy of Rod Satterthwaite

For the Feature Coverage class, junior Nate Barton won an Excellence Award. Photo Courtesy of Rod Satterthwaite

For the Uploading Content to the Web class, junior Aaron Kuhn received an Excellence Award. Photo Courtesy of Rod Satterthwaite

name,” junior Nate Barton said. “I had never been on the newspaper before, and there were almost 30 other kids in my class. So it felt really good to win an award for my hard work.”

After months of hard work, the Talon Staff met their goal of earning the Spartan for their publication as a whole last year.

“The competition was tough because we were up against the best newspapers in the state of Michigan,” Sweet said. “So when we won the Spartan, it was absolutely amazing. To see myself and everyone else on staff get recognition made all of the long layout nights and stressful deadlines worth it.”

Adviser Mrs. Julia Satterthwaite said that the MIPA summer journalism workshop is the key to success as a staff, as well as in competition.

“The summer workshop is a great place for the staff to get fired up for the school year,” Mrs. Satterthwaite said. “Students get to learn so much in such

a short period of time from some of the best journalism advisers in

the nation. I was so proud that seven of my staff members won awards for being the best in their classes. This means we will likely have a very promising year as a

newspaper staff.”

Alumni James Giardina poses by the Spartan mascot with his journalism teacher Jesse McLean. Giardina won the Spartan Award for the Covering the Workshop class. Photo Courtesy of Rod Satterthwaite

Junior Katie Ziraldo accepts an Excellence Award for the Entertainment Coverage class. Photo by Rod Satterthwaite

Junior Emily Hayward accepts the Spartan Award for the Feature Coverage class. Photo Courtesy of Rod Satterthwaite

Michigan Restricted Driving Laws

2010/2011 improv team members:

Brady Crites, 12Nick Dauphin, 12Jim Geddes, 11

Trevor Johnson, 12Kristina Kim, 12Jasmine Kim, 9Hannah Lee, 12

Michael Lordon, 12 Sarah McEneaney, 11

Carla Ramirez, 12Ben Simko, 10

Zach Simpson, 9

*Bolded names indicate captains

What is a Level 3 License?A Level 3 License grants full driving privileges.What is needed?•The teen must be 17-years-old•Has had a Level 2 License for at least 6 months•Successful completion of 12 consecutive months of driving without a moving violation or license suspension

What is a Level 2 License?It allows teens to drive unsupervised except between midnight and 5 a.m.What is needed?•The teen must be 16-years-old•Proof the teen has had a Level 1 License for a minimum of 180 days•50 hours of recorded driving time

“I really don’t know what to expect. It’s improv, so it’s always different - every joke, every show, every year.

Carla Ramirez, senior

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“We’re not really competitive. I think it’s going to be friendly between the three teams - but we will tear them apart.

Sarah McEneaney, junior

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Sports Talonthe

September 2010

4

The girls dance. The crowd cheers as they walk by. They make a difference for Michigan children.

The varsity dance team volunteered their time in The Rainbow Connection’s Walk for Kids on Saturday, September 11 at the Detroit Zoo. The Rainbow Connection is an organization that grants wishes for Michigan children with terminal or life-threatening illnesses.

Junior Lauren Compton was hesitant at first about helping out with the walk.

“I was discouraged because we had to be up so early on a Saturday,” Compton said. “But I was excited about the walkers.”

Junior Vanessa Menzo and the team were included in the organization by doing different things at the zoo.

“We cheered on the walkers,” Menzo said. “We also danced and talked to the kids on the walk and did face paint with the kids.”

Junior Shannon King enjoyed the time volunteering.

“I hadn’t heard of it before,” King said. “The best part was being a part of something. Helping to support other kids.”

Executive Director of Rainbow Connection Mary Grace McCarter appreciated the participation of the dance team.

“For those folks new to The Rainbow Connection and participating for the first time it was a treat to see this enthusiastic group of young women out early on a Saturday morning to support such a worthy cause for Michigan children,” Mrs. McCarter said. “For our wish families participating it was an opportunity to see that the dancers were there to cheer on the wish children and bring happiness to

these brave kids fighting so hard to get better.”

This non-profit organization would like more support from groups like the dance team.

“The Rainbow Connection depends on groups to both share the mission and to nurture support to make dreams come true for Michigan children,” Mrs. McCarter said. “We cannot do our work without these groups. Also, it is so important to our wish families that we are all here for them during this most difficult time, that we are all cheering for them and that they are not alone.”

Compton liked hearing stories from Rainbow Connection.

“I liked hearing the personal stories of kids whose wishes had been granted by the Rainbow Connection,” said Compton. “I felt good knowing I was supporting an organization that granted wishes to families with sick children.”

I felt good knowing I was supporting an organization that granted wishes to families with sick children.

Lauren Compton,junior

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Dance team performs to make dreams come true

The team stretches before diving into the pool. Photo by Austin Bowerman

Lathers and Compton during a routine at the zoo. Photo Courtesy Cheryl Jacobs

Girls swim makes lasting bondsAt 5:45 in the morning the girls swim team

is up and preparing for their next meet. With a 12-hour school day, plus practice on Saturdays, the team is committed to maintaining last year’s perfect record.

“We definitely want to repeat the same thing as last year,” team captain Elayne Wang said. “This year is definitely going to be a lot tougher because we lost three of our main swimmers.”

Last year, the swim and dive team won every single meet in their league. So far, they have not yet lost a league meet, and hope to do as well as last year.

“Each year I expect more than last year,” Coach Paul Karas said.

He explained that making the girls do a drill called a negative split is a key workout that helps replicate a race.

“Workouts are designed so you swim at different speeds,” coach Karas said. “We tend to train this way and go faster at the end.”

Sophomore swimmer Katherina Steenson explained that there is a lot of pressure to do well this season because of the loss of team members.

“We lost a bunch of good swimmers and now we all have to step it up,” Steenson said.

There is also a certain amount of tension on the team.

“A lot of the girls get anxious and want us to cheer for them,” junior Brianne Seefeldt said.

Wang agrees.“There is always going to be some

pressure, but it is mostly just encouragement,” Wang said. “I would say that there is a lot of encouragement and support on our team.”

With such a rigid schedule, one would think that the team would never have time to bond or hang out after practice, but Seefeldt explained that there are a lot of fun times.

“We have team pasta parties, sleepovers, and we always see each other in school,” Seefeldt said. “I like hanging out with the people on the team, and it’s better to be active in a sport than to sit around all year.”

Senior Elayne Wang swimming a lap at practice. Photo by Austin Bowerman

The varisty dance team takes a break for a picture during practice. Photo Courtesy of Cheryl Jacobs

Senior Sam Lathers and junior Lauren Compton preform at the Detroit Zoo. Photo Courtesy of Cheryl Jacobs

Sophomores Haley Ludwig, Hanna Shin, senior Jacqueline Loock and junior Veronica Loock warm up for practice. Photo by Austin Bowerman

Opinion 5Talonthe

September 2010

The TalonEditor in ChiefMax Kleiner

Feature EditorEmily Hayward

Lifestyles EditorMelanie Sweet

Entertainment EditorKatie Ziraldo

Opinion EditorAmy Mackens

Sports EditorKatie Krako

Website EditorAaron Kuhn

Business ManagerMadison Reitzel

Staff WritersNate BartonCarolyn BerwickAustin BowermanTaylor HolmesSteven McConnellCaitlyn McGoldrickJustin MurphyBrian PalmerJenna RoccoBen Simko

AdviserMrs. Julia Satterthwaite

Mission Statement

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

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

Unless otherwise noted, all stories and opinions expressed here are the views of The Talon staff which is comprised of students in the Journalism II class of Rochester High School.

The Talon believes it is its duty and right to inform, educate, influence and entertain its readers and will do this by exercising the First Amendment Rights as defined in the Constitution of the United States of America.

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

Letters

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Graphic by Max Kleiner

The 2010/2011 school year is definitely one of change. From the very first day, students were presented with modifications. Students learned of a new tardy policy and ate completely revamped lunches. But one of the most noticeable of the changes was the addition of four very burly men in uniform standing guard at the doors and throughout the halls. This new security seems unnecessary due to the fact that Rochester is already a very safe community; the intimidation factor only adds to the small amount of tension that currently exists and also highlights a lack of trust between the administration and students.

Although security is not unheard of in schools, this tends to be in inner-city areas or schools with a history of violence and criminal behavior. Rochester is not a school system that falls under these characteristics. The community as a whole is pretty tame

and secure. The criminal occurrences are petty and rare. In terms of aggression, there is no denying that there are acts of violence, but they are few and far between; definitely not frequent enough to implement guards rather than the standard hall monitors.

The intimidation factor is also a point that makes security guards a negative. Yes, having strong, professionally trained security may be a comfort to some, but it can also be a bit of scare for others. While guards may be scaring students out of misbehaving, there is also the risk of intimidating innocent students and provoking rowdy ones to act out.

Security in school also highlights what a small amount of trust the administration has in students. Implementing security just shows students that they cannot be trusted to handle themselves and behave. Teachers and other staff members are always preaching their expectation for students to act maturely and be responsible. Having security is just a contradiction to all of the preaching. It is sending the slightly undermining message “We expect you to be good, but we don’t think you are able do it.”

There is the argument that having security guards saves the district money and hiring them has made

the school safer; there is no way of denying this. Security will always make things more in control, but if the area being secured is already safe in the first place, why implement it? It seems unnecessary to add a bunch of guards across the school system when it is already relatively in control.

So overall the security, although good in theory, is overkill. Rochester is already known for how safe it has always been. Security just makes apparent the lack of trust the administration has in the student body, and the intimidation can agitate a mild climate into a tenser one.

Heavy security unnecessary

Security guard Mr. Washington checks the student I.D.s of seniors Leah Evanson (left) and Julie Markiewicz (right) during lunch. Photo by Austin Bowerman

Meeting a superhero

She isn’t inhumanely fast like Superman or incredibly muscular like Hulk. She can’t fly, read minds or hold the world in the palm of her hand. She doesn’t know what it is like to save hundreds of lives by some supernatural power. But she is greater than any superhero will ever be.

She has faced the harshest of demons. She has undergone various bouts of pain, lost her hair and learned what it means to have every possible odd stand in the way. She has comforted her family through times where her own life has been in jeopardy. She offers a simple smile, a helping hand, a gentle giggle, and everything is okay.

Her name is Katelyn Koziol, and she has Acute Lymp hob la s t i c L e u k e m i a (ALL), a cancer that rapidly overdevelops white blood cells. She is six years old.

K a t e l y n ’ s journey began in April 2008, when she and her older sister Amanda participated in a Trike-A-Thon to raise money for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and help fight cancer. The

very next day, Katelyn’s leg began to hurt and her doctors became suspicious. Katelyn was referred to St. Jude, where she herself was diagnosed with cancer and began two years of treatment. During that period of time, she endured numerous spinal taps, bone marrow biopsies, and side effects from her medications.

This summer, I was blessed with the opportunity to go with Katelyn’s family to Memphis, Tennessee, to visit her for a week. When little Katelyn wrapped her arms around my neck for the first time, I couldn’t prevent tears from forming in my eyes. For

someone who had so much to be upset about, all she did

was smile. It blew me away.

For the week that I was in Tennessee, I was able to simply spend time with Katelyn. We

visited Graceland and marveled at the pink

C o r v e t t e t h a t E l v i s ’ s m o m o w n e d , tried to beat the Bowse r

C a s t l e s in the “Super M a r i o B r o t h e r s ” game on the Wii, and talked about

the latest and greatest in kids’ gadgets like Zhu Zhu Pets and silly bands. At one point, we went to Life Time Fitness, where Katelyn dragged me down the water slide nearly hundreds of times and giggled with those around her. It amazed me that none of the children who were spending time with Katelyn knew that she had cancer; none of them realized that she was any different than they were.

But Katelyn is, in fact, different. Unlike the other children, she has a fairly large bump on her chest, along with a two-inch scar underneath it, so

doctors can access her port. Unlike the other children, she fights through various bouts of back pain from Vincristine chemotherapy pills. Unlike the other children, she experiences periods of

severe exhaustion and hunger from Dexamethasone steroids.

Incredibly, Katelyn does not let these differences wear out her smile. When doctors prepared to stick a needle into Katelyn’s chest at her weekly appointment, she did not object. Instead, she sat on her mother’s lap, turned her head slightly

to the side and tightly closed her eyes. After the needle was inserted, she was quick to return to her joyful self.

The joy Katelyn possessed was contagious. For every second that I was around her quiet voice, her rambunctious giggle or the purring noises she made while cuddling into my body, I was as content as she was. She held my heart in hers.

That week, I learned what it really means to be a superhero. Katelyn doesn’t possess any kind of physical superpower, but she wields any emotional quickness and strength no superhero can match. She doesn’t hold the world in her hand, but she has the doctors, nurses and technicians at St. Jude wrapped around her little fingers. She doesn’t know what it’s like to step up and save thousands of lives, but she undoubtedly changed mine.

Because of Katelyn, I no longer believe superheroes appear physically different than any other human being. It is impossible to simply look at someone and see strength. I learned that sometimes, true strength is found where it is least expected: in the small, bruised body of a six year old girl.

Katelyn Koziol, a 6-year-old leukemia patient, poses with pediatric oncologist Dr. Raul Ribeiro during her weekly appointment on August 16. Photo Courtesy of Mrs. Michelle Koziol

Another year brings more procrastination

Mr. Priest directs visitors toward the main office. Photo by Austin Bowerman

During a moment of free time, Mr. Priest checks his phone. Photo by Austin Bowerman

Lifestyles6 Talonthe

September 2010

In the flurry of events over the last few years, the religion of Islam has picked up some stigmas that aren’t necessarily accurate. With September looming like a cloud, the negative aspects of Islam have been magnified with events such as the proposed Mosque near Ground Zero and 9/11. Now students such as juniors Chehab Kaakarli and Deena Hawasli speak out to their peers about the many misconceptions of Islam.

“Most people don’t understand Islam,” Kaakarli said. “It is against our religion to be violent; it is against our religion to do violent stuff. Islam is a religion of mercy, and no violence should be associated with it.”

Imam Achmat Salie is a leader in the local Muslim community and a professor of Islamic studies at Oakland University.

“America has always been in need of a boogey man,” Imam Salie said. “Two centuries ago Catholic convents were burnt. Fifty years ago some innocent Jews were lynched. The Irish had their turn. Hispanics are still under attack for their race and their Catholicism. Some segments of American society will always be Judophobic, Islamophobic, Hindophobic, Homophobic, racist and sexist. The need is pressing to use our national media and pulpits to heal our prejudices and resentments.”

Millions of Muslims live peacefully all over the world. According to Imam Salie, many of them are on the receiving end of great misunderstanding and unfair prejudice because of the actions of a small number of violent Muslim radicals.

“Just look at history,” Kaakarli said. “Every group has had their extremist. Islam is a religion of peace and love, and [true] Muslims have nothing to do with terrorists.”

There are over 20,000 Muslims in the Metro-Detroit area alone. They are an integral part of society. According to Hawalsi, students have developed tight bonds with their Muslim friends, and religion is seldom an issue.

“In school, I don’t [feel that I am treated differently],” Hawalsi said. “Everybody understands- I’m just another student. Sometimes in the mall though, I hear comments and stuff.”

Kaakarli agrees.“RHS is a very welcoming place

and is very outspoken against racism,” said Kaakarli. “A few jokes here and there, but that’s it.”

Students at RHS, according to Kaakarli and Hawalsi, are open and

accepting to diverse cultures. While interacting with Muslims, some non-Muslims have found values that match their own.

“Islam is all about peace, helping people around you, and doing good,” Hawalsi said. “[It means being] nice to people around you- no matter what religion they are.”

Some students who have asked questions and learned about Islam have come to respect many facets of Islam. Certain misunderstandings, however, have fueled controversy all over the world. The unsettling reality is that there are extremist minorities to both sides of any conflict, and many peaceful non-radicals are often caught in the crossfire. According to Imam Salie, education is the key.

“Martin Luther King Jr. once said that ‘we hate one another because we do not know one another; we do not know one another because we do not understand each other; we do not understand each other because we do not communicate with each other, and we do not communicate with each other because we are separate,’” Imam Salie said. “We need to see the ‘other’ as they see themselves- not through a prism of arrogance, superiority and self righteousness.”

Kaakarli believes progress is being made.

“America is a country that leads in the right direction,” Kaakarli said. “It might get bumpy on the road, but we’ll get there. This has been proven by history, and soon everyone will get to know the true identity of Islam and Muslims in America and all over the world.”

Interfaith dialogue is the fastest way to bring about change and abolish intolerance. Simple conversation can evoke understanding and friendship.

“I call myself an Interfaith Amigo,” Imam Salie said. “Interfaith [dialogue] is a necessity, but it must be done with grace, wisdom, and sincerity. The interfaith movement is evolving. Given our toxic political climate, we need interfaith as much as we needed the civil rights marches 50 years ago.”

Imam Salie had other ideas about how to create a more educated society.

“We must have the political and religious will to stop the marginalization and demonization of the ‘other’ here and everywhere,” Imam Salie said. “Wishing for peace is not enough. Gandhi, Martin Luther King Jr., and

Badsha were peace warriors. Let us live the Golden Rule.”

Another key to intercultural harmony is constant optimism, Imam Salie said. The future is bright, and because America guarantees freedom of religion, relations between Americans of all religions shall improve with every generation.

“America is a country that protects every religion,” Kaakarli said. “And that’s why it is the greatest country in the world. That’s why my family and many other families all over the world choose to come here. God bless America.”

Muslim community speaks out

Young boys scurry to the mosque to mark the end of Ramadan at the Muslim Community Center of Silver Spring, Maryland, Saturday September 18, 2009. As the FBI relentlessly pursues one alleged terror plot after another, Muslim Americans are finding they must grapple with a widespread sense that even the innocent among them are guilty in the eyes of their fellow citizens. (Cliff Owen/MCT)

Describe your religion in one sentence.Islam is a religion of peace.

What is the most misunderstood thing about Islam?That we’re not all terrorists.

Why did you become Muslim?I was born into it, but my parents raised me this way.

Does your religion affect your everyday life?Definitely. Islam is a way of life, not just a religion. It’s a way of life.

Is it ever difficult to be Muslim?Sometimes, in a way, because people can be so judgmental.

What is one thing people don’t know about Islam?It’s about being humble and peace towards others, respecting other religions no matter what religion, and accepting everyone.

Islam is a religion of peace and love, and [true] Muslims have nothing to do with terrorists.

Chehab Kaakarli,junior

“

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She knew she was making a life-changing decision. It was something she had always wanted, but now that it was so close, she became nervous. She had wanted to get her belly button pierced ever since she was five because Britney Spears had hers done. But unlike the pop star, junior Sally Walsh is afraid of needles.

Still, Walsh lay down on the table. A bald man who looked to be about thirty and had multiple ear piercings pulled out a needle from the sterile bag sitting next to him. Walsh grabbed her friend’s hand and jammed her eyes shut.

“I was freaking out,” Walsh said. “The whole time, I was just thinking, ‘I can’t believe I’m actually going to do this.’ I was so nervous and I hate needles. It was crazy.”

But according to Walsh, it was not nearly as painful as she had imagined. And when she opened her eyes once more, she was elated.

“I felt the needle touch me, and then just a little pinch,” Walsh said. “If I even called it just a pinch, I’d be exaggerating. I was so surprised at how

little it hurt. When I saw it afterword, I was so happy.”

Walsh is not the only high school student who recently got her naval pierced. In an article published by BBC news in late 2008, the recent increase in this piercing was referred to as an “unstoppable boom” and “more than just a fad.”

This concept can be applied locally as well. Mr. Ken Berggren, the owner of No Name Tattoo in Utica, said more and more teens are coming in for naval piercings. In the last month, No Name Tattoo has given piercings to 45 minors who were young enough to need a parent signature for permission.

According to Mr. Berggren, the most important thing is for the teens to simply be responsible about the piercing.

“With any piercing, it’s important

to pick a place that’s safe,” Mr. Berggren said. “You don’t want to pick somewhere where it could easily get infected or could be harmful. Belly button piercings really don’t have any major risks.”

However, Mr. Berggren also said the piercing may be associated with some common, yet avoidable problems.

“The biggest issue I’ve seen is when people don’t follow the aftercare instructions,” Mr. Berggren said. “Some of the problems that may arise include scarring, infection, and pain or swelling around the pierced area. But if you follow the instructions, there should be no problem at all.”

These potential risks, along with other factors, have led students like senior Alyssa Franklin to disapprove of naval piercings.

“I’m really not a huge fan of belly

Belly button piercing is on the rise

button piercings,” Franklin said. “At band camp this year, a girl’s piercing fell out and her friend had to stab it back in. It was gross.”

Sophomore Sam Lendzion disagrees.

“I always thought belly button piercings looked really cute,” Lendzion said. “Not everyone has them, so they stand out as a little bit more of an abnormal piercing. I just think they look cool.”

Other students got their naval pierced for different reasons.

“I was getting ready for a vacation to Hawaii,” junior Jacky Yee said. “I was planning on spending a lot of time on the beach, so I went and got it done.”

Like Yee, Walsh strategically scheduled the date of her piercing.

“I decided that I would get it done

Part of the interior of No Name Tattoos in Utica, which offers naval piercings for minors young enough to need parent consent. Photo Courtesy of Mr. Ken Berggren

Students evaluate the pros and cons of the recent boom in the number of teenage belly button piercings

at the end of summer,” Walsh said. “I knew that you can’t swim for at least four months after you get it done, so I wanted to wait until I went back to school and wouldn’t be swimming, like, every day.”

When Walsh arrived at XS Tattoo and Piercings in Downtown Rochester in September, she was surprised to discover she needed parent permission. She called her dad, who came down and signed a form, and then left. According to Walsh, she is glad she could ultimately get the piercing without her parents being there.

“I went without them because I have a feeling that they would have been very weird about it,” Walsh said. “I think if my mom took me, she probably would have changed her mind and wouldn’t have let me get it done. So I’m happy things worked out the way they did.”

However, Lendzion said she was relieved to have her mother by her side.

“It definitely wasn’t uncomfortable for my mom to be there,” Lendzion said. “I’m not legally allowed to go alone, so she had to come anyway. It didn’t really matter that she was there at all.”

Regardless of whether teens want to get the piercing with or without a parent present, Walsh said it is most important to think the decision through.

“It’s really a personal choice,” Walsh said. “I have a few friends who have it done, and it looks really good on them, so I knew I wanted it done. But if someone doesn’t want one, they don’t have to get it. All I know is that I love mine, and it was totally worth the two seconds of pain that it cost me.”

The Pentagon is one place where there’s no discussion of whether it’s appropriate for Muslims to pray near the site of the 9/11 attacks. Every Friday, Muslims gather to worship in a chapel built in the very space where a hijacked jetliner plunged into the Pentagon on Sept. 11, 2001. (Olivier Douliery/Abaca Press/MCT)

I was so surprised at how little it hurt. When I saw it afterword, I was so happy.

Sally Walsh,junior

“

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Entertainment 7Talonthe

September 2010

This fall, the Rochester Alliance of Theatrical Students (R.A.T.S.) is taking on the Broadway hit “Hairspray.” This fame will attract people to come as an audience, but it is also intended to highlight the diversity of our school and have theater branch out as a program.

“There are a lot of famous shows and movies that have people saying ‘I don’t see how I fit into that,’” vocal music director Mrs. Jolene Plotzke

said. “But with all the different groups in

our school, it’s easier to celebrate the diversity rather than

conform.”“Hairspray” is a production that

addresses issues like conformity versus individuality as well as the civil rights moment of the 60’s. It was not until this year that the rights to “Hairspray” were bought, and with values so prominent, Mrs. Plotzke said she seized the opportunity to make the theater program more accessible.

“Over the past six years I’ve seen our school become more diverse,” Mrs. Plotzke said. “I’ve also begun to see kids hanging around after school with nothing to be a part of. Theater is something that lets kids get involved. With the arts, everyone can be involved and have something special to do with their time.”

Students like senior Annapurna Vishnubhotla who were previously in theater agree with the idea of branching out using the production, which schools recently receives the rights to perform.

“I think that by choosing this musical, more students will feel more accepted by their classmates and will

be willing to a u d i t i o n , because they feel as though there is now a role that they can play,” Vishnubhotla said. “Also, by belonging to such a diverse school, I think that ‘Hairspray’ will offer more opportunity for students to crawl out of their shells and try something they never have before.”

The musical, which made its Broadway debut in 2002, became a movie in 2007 and steadily grew in popularity from there. For theater, this could mean a more accessible production that has the chance to get more people involved.

“I think that more kids will audition than ever before,” Mrs. Plotzke said. “It’s such a popular show that many kids have seen themselves in a role when they were younger.”

Efforts to get the news out have included video announcements, encouragement from teachers and students as well as posters across the school. Theater students like senior Kristina Kim are optimistic that

In the number five video, the “crazy double rainbow man” witnesses what he believes to be the most uplifting and amazing sight he has ever seen in his life when he sees a “double rainbow” stretching all the way from one side of the sky to the other. At first he is overcome with joy and excitement, and when he then becomes swept up in the moment, he begins to weep. Although the man in the video’s general amazement by the double rainbow very amusing, this video did not need to drag on for three and a half minutes. We get it; the guy has never seen a double rainbow before. But next time, try and keep it under two minutes.

The number five video was fixed up, made better and made into what takes the number four slot, the Crazy Double Rainbow Guy Song. The original video was auto-tuned and made into what is, oddly, a rather catching tune. Although the lines and video are all pretty much the same, if you weren’t listening closely, you may not even notice what the song is about. The fact that a ridiculous video was made into a successful song made this a must-see/hear on the top five list. And the most hilarious part of this video is the fact that someone took the time to create it. If that isn’t hysterical enough, the song is actually available for purchase on iTunes.

This “insane stop motion animation” must have taken forever to create. The video is a compilation of second long videos and pictures put together to create a cartoon-like experience using a real person. The video follows Maori on a “normal morning,” through brushing her teeth, eating breakfast and chasing her pet crayons around the house, smashing them into colorful splats on the walls and floor. The amazing editing skills as well as the extreme levels of dedication it must have taken to create such an experience is unfathomable, and the video continues to be entertaining even after watching it all summer long.

Even if the viewer isn’t a classic video game junkie, anyone can appreciate the time and effort this violinist must have put into this project. While someone plays the original Super Mario Bros. game, this violinist plays the music and sound effects at the exact right times, almost fooling the viewer into thinking it’s just the game itself. Many have attempted before, and succeeded in playing the music in time with the game. However, when this violinist added the sound effects, he somehow managed to still keep the music in time and adjust to any and all obstacles that may come Mario’s way. The attention to detail is truely amazing.

Don’t you hate it when the mall is closed? Well this guy does! In this not-so-cleverly named video, a man visiting the Eaton Centre in Toronto, Canada, does just that. Furious that the mall has “closed their doors to the public,” this man rants and raves at the glass doors of the establishment. Although it doesn’t add up that this man so badly wanted in, nor why he thought yelling at the wall of the building would let him do so, I appreciate whoever was kind enough to video tape it and present it to the world. The video doesn’t have a happy ending, as they do not open the doors to the public, but the laughs the video provided make up for it.

Maori’s Morning Crazy Double Rainbow Guy Song

Crazy Double Rainbow Guy

Video Game Violinist: Mario

Man Freaks Out Because Mall is Closed 2 3 4 51

Katie’s Top 5 Viral Videos of the summer

‘Hairspray’

“Hairspray” will bring in a new group of people

excited about what they’re doing.

“Everyone is extremely optimistic about diversifying our program, but we won’t know until the list goes up,” Kim said. “Theater club is always open to all different types; it’s just a matter of getting the guts to audition. Everyone is super friendly, and if anyone has ever wanted to be in a play or musical, they are definitely encouraged to audition.”

The musical, although a way to open up doors for a new crowd, is also seen as an opportunity to open both eyes and minds.

“‘Hairspray’ drew kids in because it’s light and funny, but people can identify with it because it has a lot of issues going on,” Mrs. Plotzke said. “We’re hoping that people will walk away having enjoyed themselves but also thinking ‘I should be more sensitive’ and bring to light the understanding and acceptance that we should all have.”

acknowledgesdiversity

Illustration by Amy Mackens

Reviewed by Katie Ziraldo

In the season opener titled “Audition,” “Glee” hit another one out of the park with killer music, interesting new characters and altered plot lines. The opening scene featured secondary character Jacob’s website coverage of the new school year. Kurt’s defense of his honor and glee club was abruptly interrupted by a slushie in the face, symbolizing the fact that nothing has changed and glee remains at the bottom of the social totem pole. The difference? This year the glee club starts with a higher confidence and a feeling of family.

But this feeling is quickly threatened for Rachel when a foreign exchange student named Sunshine shows interest in the club. In an interesting second season twist, Cheerios coach and comedy legend Sue Sylvester joins in an alliance

with glee coach Will Schuster. The two made said alliance to take down the new football coach, Coach Beiste, who has convinced Principal Figgins to take 10 percent of the budget away from both the glee club and the Cheerios and use it to improve the football team.

Although the alliance was somewhat refreshing at first, it was remarkably odd and unsettling to see Sue in the role of a protagonist. However, an adjustment to this new alliance became unnecessary when Will turned on Sue, discovering that he couldn’t find it in his heart to hurt Coach Beiste while she struggles to fit into a new environment.

Meanwhile, Artie is heartbroken because former-girlfriend Tina broke up with him to be with Mike Chang. To try and lift his spirits, Finn agrees to try and help get him on the football team. Coach Beiste mistakes Finn’s suggestion as a sick joke and kicks him off the football team, taking what

Finn sees as his last valuable quality away. His old quarterback position is taken by the other newly introduced character, Sam Evans, who, much like Finn, had his talent for singing discovered from singing in the locker room showers. As his audition song for glee, Sam sang the popular hit “Billionaire” while accompanied by Artie, Finn, Mike and Puck, a remarkable cover that exposes him as a fresh new talent for the club, although they do suggest he lose the “Beiber-cut.”

It is said that “Glee” writers will be focusing more on character development this season, featuring less songs per episode. And it is clear with the changes made so far, such as Finn and Rachel dating and the ending of past relationships, that the writers will live up to this comment. However, the balance in the first season seemed perfectly fine, so why mess with a good thing?

If “Glee” can manage to write

Quinn back as the head cheerleader without her character taking a complete rewind to the Quinn that was introduced to the audience at the beginning of season one, then more power to them. It would be extremely disappointing to see what became a wounded, evolving character go back to her original state.

However, with new characters and plot twists, it’s possible the writers could find a completely different approach to this season’s Quinn Fabre. As far as developing characters goes, Artie is one who deserves to catch a break. The kid has nothing going for him besides glee club now that Tina has broken up with him, so it would be satisfying to see him find a new love interest, excel in glee club or find something else he equally enjoys.

The songs performed in the first episode didn’t fail to deliver. Aside from the boys “Billionaire,” Rachel sang a beautiful and touching “What I Did For Love” and the entire gang

Second season of ‘Glee’ proves promising

came together to sing “Empire State of Mind.” This week’s music certainly shows promise for the future and although only one episode has passed, “Glee” has managed to pull this viewer right back into the show and wishing for more. More music, more romance, more comedy. “Glee” has it all.

Which fall premiere were you most excited to watch?

Poll based on results from 235 RHS students.

Entertainment8 Talonthe

September 2010

Modern-day philosopher/famed truant Ferris Bueller said, during his famous “Day Off,” “Life moves pretty fast. If you don’t stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it.” This holds especially true over the summer. Between the late sleeping, the repeated “Toy Story 3” viewings, and the meticulously updated Facebook photo album devoted to pictures of summer activities, some may have forgotten to stop and look at what the background sound to all those memories were. Luckily, here’s a nice, long look at five of the biggest albums of summer 2010. Take a peek back.

This summer has had no shortage of excellent hip-hop. Freddie Gibbs’ Str8 Killa No Filla and Curren$y’s Pilot Talk were both fantastic. But the standout was the new solo album by Outkast’s Big Boi. On his first solo album, Big Boi does not disappoint. The production is quite well done, the beats are always timed well and rarely sound overworked or obnoxious, nor do they regularly distract the focus from the rhymes. All the guests on the album work very well with each other, and all the verses flow very well. A highlight, as far as guests go, was Gucci Mane’s performance in “Shine Blockas.” The flow is super-smooth and everything seems to fall into place and combine perfectly. Big Boi, throughout the album, is near flawless in his speedy, well-placed delivery. Not everything is perfect, of course. The album seems to hit a speed bump right in the middle, with “You Ain’t No DJ,” which was incessantly irritating. The beat sounds vaguely like some pan-banging out of “Stomp.” That just doesn’t cut it. That being said, this album is certainly one of the most consistent and well-done of the summer, and is absolutely worth trying out.

Wavves originally consisted of just one man, Nathan Williams, who recorded the first two albums, entitled Wavves and Wavvves, in his bedroom. The sound of the aforementioned albums is very noisy and abrasive. “King of the Beach” is a complete departure from Wavves’ previous albums. The music is all very cleanly produced, and although the simplistic song structure remains intact from the earlier albums, it sounds completely different in the hands of a competent producer. Lyrically speaking, themes of Williams’ self-loathing and bitterness seem prevalent. Although the many of the songs, such as “Super Soaker”, “Take on the World,” and “Post Acid” show the same type of Ramones-esque energy and influence one sees on earlier albums, a few songs, particularly “Mickey Mouse” and “Convertible Balloon” show the band trying to branch out from the four-chord simplicity, with varying degrees of success; “Convertible Balloon” being a low point for the album.

SUMMER

Overall: A-

Overall: B

Wavves- “King of the Beach”

Big Boi- “Sir Lucious Left Foot: The Son of Chico Dusty”

Big Boy is shown at the 2004 World Music Awards in Las Vegas, Nevada, on Wednesday, September 15, 2004. Photo Courtesy of MCT Direct

Once in a while one hears something that is so over hyped and uninspiring that the drastic decision to just turn it off occurs. “Funeral” was one of those experiences. Many consider it a masterpiece, but it wasn’t even close. There was nothing particularly special or striking about it. It wasn’t a bad album, it just was disappointing in its inability to live up to the hype it got. “The Suburbs” is very much the same in that respect. Listening to “The Suburbs” is just a long anticlimax to a big buildup. Musically speaking, there are a few tone shifts between blocks of songs, but nothing of great note. The instrumentation seemed a little overdone to me, with string sections, synthesizers, and guitars trying to vie for your attention. Vocalist Win Butler described the album as “a letter from the suburbs,” which didn’t really seem apparent, outside of the occasional lyrical mention of the words “the suburbs”. The album was just utterly average. There was nothing of any real worth gained from listening to The Suburbs, and there’s nothing here that’s going to be missed.

Arcade Fire- “The Suburbs”

Overall: C-

Canadian rock band Arcade Fire performs live on stage during the fifth edition of Rock en Seine music festival, held at Parc de Saint-Cloud near Paris, France, on August 24, 2007. Photo by Lionel Moreau/ABACAPRESS.COM

Want a summer album? This is it. Best Coast, the brainchild of Bethany Cosentino, seems to have two things in mind throughout this album: the sun and relationships. “Crazy for You” has a heavy emphasis on both, amid a reverb-filled chord progression, which somehow manages to make everything sound like, well, summer. The twangy, buzzy guitars with the vocal “oohs” and “aahs” gives the listener a mental throwback to surf and garage rock. The simplicity of the lyrics may be bothersome to some, as there’s not a whole lot of depth going on here. Cosentino wears her feelings on her sleeve, prompting some to compare this album to “Taylor Swift at the beach.” The connection makes a lot of sense, really, but the difference here is really in the delivery rather than the message, and the delivery is done very well here. Although some would certainly like to see some degree of a directional change in a song or two, this album is very much a tribute to the simplistic, straightforward pop songs of the 60’s, so the listener gets what he or she expects.

Best Coast- “Crazy for You”

Overall: B+

MUSICREVIEW

Wavves performs at Red 7. Photo Courtesy of Shawn Hinojosa and Creative CommonsVivian Girls perform with Best Coast live at Holocene in Portland, Oregon in February 2010. Photo Courtesy of Creative Commons

Illustration by Amy Mackens

September 29, 2010 VOLUME 2 ISSUE 1 ROCHESTER HIGH

Senior Trevor Johnson prepares to give a motivational speech to the S.O.F before they take their places in the stands. Photo by Aaron Khun

Inside this issue:S.O.F. cheers on Falcon football pg 2-3

‘Hairspray’ Q&A with Mrs. Sarah Miesch pg 4Getting to know the security guards pg 4

Ms. Teen America third runner up pg 4

The HatchlingSeptemper 2010

Yes, this is the Battlefield

3

Senior Trevor Johnson stands tall as he addresses the anxious crowd with excitement and encouragement with the pre-game speech ritual. He, along with senior Gabe Gibbs, is the leader of the student section the Soldiers of Fortune (S.O.F.). The S.O.F. attends athletic games to cheer the team to a victory.

“Without the student section, the school who has had the most spirit since the dawn of time wouldn’t be the same as it is today,” Johnson said. “The S.O.F. drives our school spirit to be the best of the best of the best.”

This year’s varsity football record, along with willing seniors, has improved the S.O.F. spirit.

“There seems to be a lot more students this year,” athletic director Mr. Vic Fournier said. “Last year started strong, but faded after the first couple of games.”

This year’s football team has started out with a strong record of 3-1, which contributes to the success of the S.O.F..

“This year there is more people and better themes,” Gibbs said. “We get the players fired up to play the game.”

There has been debate about which Rochester School student section is the best; however, according to senior Chris Saber, there is nothing to debate about.

“Do they even have a student section?” Saber said. “All I know is that other schools envy our spirit and compassion for our teams.”

Although Adams has consistently held a better record than Rochester in the last couple of years, Rochester fans believe that we always have a larger student attendance.

“I have the heart of a Falcon,” Gibbs said. “We get the players fired up and there is always hope for a win. Whether we win or lose, we have always had die-hard fans.”

Seniors may lead the S.O.F. in its planning

and cheering, but it’s the underclassmen that contribute a lot more than one would think.

“It is very important to get underclassmen involved,” Mr. Fournier said. “The S.O.F. must last and seniors must groom the underclassmen to improve the fan base of the future.”

Not only do the underclassmen contribute a lot, but the staff members put a great amount of effort in to improve the S.O.F. as well.

“I am willing to provide anything for the S.O.F.,” Mr. Fournier said. “I would help them in any way I can, because they represent the school just as much as the athletes do.”

The passion and spirit of Rochester students will hopefully always be a part of Rochester’s history

“The excitement, the anticipation, the thought that we might win, the smell of turf and fresh pigskin will always encourage me to consistently attend football games,” Johnson said. “My goal for this year is to get louder every game and further improve the student section at Rochester for years to come.”



Senior Gabe Gibbs cooks grilled cheese sandwiches in the lower parking lot for the pre-game tailgate. Photo by Aaron KuhnSeniors Trevor Johnson and Trey Simon dance with Freddy the Falcon during half-time. Photo by Aaron Kuhn

Members of the senior class do push-ups after an RHS touchdown. Photo by Aaron KuhnWith the success of the new football season, the Soldiers of Fortune

student section have seen a rise in the number of participants

coming to cheer on their team. In the opinion of S.O.F. leaders, such

as seniors Trevor Johnson and Gabe Gibbs, the cheering section is

considered to be one of the most enthusiastic in the area.

@ ROYAL OAKOctober 22

TO BE ANNOUNCED

@ CLARKSTON October 1

SUPER HERO

@STONEY CREEK or ADAMSOctober 15

BABY NIGHT ORI HATE ADAMS

WEST BLOOMFIELDOctober 8

BLUE-OUT ?Graphics by Amy Mackens

Q&A

Three fierce security guards

answer five questions for

your enjoyment.

3 x 5:

1. Training / previous job?

5. Favorite Animal?

4. Favorite high school class?

3. How do you like Rochester High and

the students?

2. Favorite type of chip?

Dog

Science

Quite well, I enjoy it.

Bettermade

Police Academy Graduate

Dog

Math

Not bad, the students are nice; it’s an interesting job.

Pringle

Marine Core for the Last five Years, Military Police

Liger

Recess

The kids are great, to be honest.

Poker Chip

Military; Armed Forces

Mr. Priest Mr. Campbell Mr. Washington

Every week, junior Aly Difilippo practiced for countless hours. She practiced styling her hair, perfecting her make-up and performing her walk.

She was preparing for the Miss Teen Michigan USA Pageant, which was held at the University of Michigan on September 10-11. According to Difilippo, the preparation was difficult, but when she was awarded third runner-up, it was worth it.

“When they announced my name, I felt like I had won,” Difilippo said. “I was so happy that I almost cried.”

As third runner-up out of 50 teens, Difilippo received a $40,000 scholarship to Lindenwood University in Missouri, a glass plaque, jewelry and accessories.

Pageant inspires confidenceHowever, Difilippo said she saw the

pageant as more than a way to earn prizes; it was a way to make a difference.

During the pageant, the candidates had to answer a question on stage. Difilippo was asked what message she would send her peers if she won and spoke at high schools.

“Everyone should know they are loved and special,” Difilippo said at the pageant. “It doesn’t matter if you have a million friends or one friend; someone loves you for who you are.”

For Difilippo, being seen and heard on stage was life changing.

“I gained so much more confidence,” Difilippo said. “I learned how to answer tough questions on stage, and I also made friends all over the state of Michigan. It was an incredible experience, and I’m so glad I did it.”


Q: Do you think “Hairspray” was a good choice for the musical?

A: Absolutely! I think it will really suit the talent our school has. We have amazing singers, actors and dancers. Not to mention the technical part of the performance. Also, I think this musical is great because it celebrates diversity. Something our school can proudly claim to have!

Q: How do you think “Hairspray” will go this year?

A: Hopefully it will be awesome, or “groovy,” as Tracy would say. I think it is going to be really fun.

Q: What do you imagine “Hairspray” looking like?

A: A kaleidoscope of music and dance! It will always be moving , bright colors and big hair!

Q: Can R.A.T.S. pull it off?

A: Of course we can! As always it will require a ton of work, and commitment by students and production team. I can honestly say after all the hard work, I feel like a proud mama watching my RATS pull off a great show!

Mrs. Sarah Miesch

Documents

September 2010