lahser_knight_life_issue_1_2010

Sarah Worthlin

Staff Writer

Why you won’t read this article

REDEFINING EDUCATION

On February 17, 2009, President Obama signed the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. This legislation was designed to stimulate the economy, sup-port job creation and invest in critical sectors including education. The legislation carves out $4.35 billion for the Race to the Top Fund, a competitive grant program designed to reward and encourage states for education, innovation and reform. In late 2009 Governor Jennifer Granholm, signed a series of laws to win federal grants. Michigan law now states that a “significant” portion of teachers’ pay must be based on job performance, grad-ing how well their students perform on standardized tests. In early 2010, the state of Michigan failed to win these federal funds because the government decided that the local labor unions were not fully supportive of the changes. Frank Laurinec, social studies teacher and Head Representative of the Bloomfield Hills Teachers Union, stated, , “Currently, teachers pay is based on education, years of experience and performance reviews. The new law will evaluate teachers on their performance and

their students’ performances.” He also shared the pros and cons of the program, “On a positive note, teachers whose students perform well, will get the money they deserve,” Laurinec said. “On the other hand, teachers in low income areas will suffer due to the poor performance of students, and their pay will be based on how the stu-dents perform on a single standardized test.” Tracy Hall, Associate Principal of Lahser High School describes the new law as a, “law of accountability. If the teachers are equipped to teach and the students are equipped to learn, than the program will be effective.” She compared this to a checks and balances system. Hall believes that the system needs to consider many factors and would be more effective if government followed stu-dents year after year, taking note of their progression. Laura Stern, a longtime parent and supporter Bloom-field Hills Schools, believes that, “While the Race to The Top could eventually be very successful, there are too many variables to define a teachers performance.” Her insight questions the idea of teachers being paid based on standardized testing such as the M.E.A.P.S. Stern suggests the schools should offer preparatory classes to prepare kids for standardized tests including the ACT and SAT. In this regard, students, teachers and parents would share responsibility in testing success and alleviate a teacher performance based pay scale.The State of Michigan plans to gain the support of union groups and reapply for Race to The Top in the future. In the meantime, Michigan citizens must consider the effects the program could have on our state’s education.

Michigan schools may at-tempt to gain funding through Obama’s Race to the Top campaign

Now that your atten-tion is caught, you have a choice to keep reading or move on to something else. The average person would move on, because the point of the story isn’t in bold print and in as few words as possible. If your still reading now you’re in a vast minor-ity. The percent of people that read the newspaper is gradually declining. Let’s get real, you don’t wake up and thumb through the newspa-

per every morning. Jr. Sammy Bordener says “I don’t read the news-paper because I find out most things from what other people are talking about.” Maybe the most important news to you is on Facebook or Twitter, handed to you on a silver platter. Maybe words on paper are harder for you to read than the ones on your phone or computer. A recent analysis of newspaper readership by Pew Research found that just 27% of Generation Y -- those born in 1977 or later -- read a news-paper the previous day. That compares with 55% of those in the Silent or Greatest Generations, born prior to 1946. When asked why newspapers are unappealing, Soph.

Lucy Ramonat replied “It’s black and white, it takes too long to read, and that it’s hard to find specific articles because there are so many sections.” People are becoming harder to please. They want their information to be interesting, short, and to the point. Soph. Deven Kishore says “On the Internet you can look at topics specific to what you want to learn about, rather than in a newspaper where you are limited to what the author wants to write about.” Peo-ple also want their informa-tion fast. The problem some find with printed newspa-pers is that the excitement of the day before is printed a day later, whereas CNN.com, or other popular news websites, have their infor-mation online an hour after

something newsworthy happens. So does this mean saying goodbye to your favorite paper? Only time will tell. However, don’t be surprised when, you’re saying “Remember when we used to read our news on paper?”

It’s 7:30 am and school is in session. Students at both Lahser and Andover high school learn about various topics through-out the day. However, Bloomfield Hills residents also want to learn about

a topic: the proposed new high school. Over the course of the last 18 months, taxpayers have been at a standstill on what the proposed plan will include. The un-known will be dictated by several factors: time-frame to build the struc-ture, where students are housed during construc-tion, and overall design of the high school. It is a fact that Bloom-field Hills will transition

Looking to the future

Craig Kaplan, a Lah-ser senior, had a remark-able ambition of foster-ing an environment to cultivate the children’s creativity and imagina-tion through art educa-tion. In early October 2009, the Reinstitution of the Arts into Detroit (R.A.D.) was created to fill the void caused by the elimination of art education programs in Detroit Public Schools. Managed and funded by Kaplan, himself, every two weeks with high school volunteers, he embarks to O.W. Holmes School in inner city Detroit to teach art and read stories to children in kindergarten through second grade. Lahser senior Shannah Fedus described her experience as a R.A.D. volunteer as incredible. She gushed that Kaplan is “giving children what they couldn’t possibly have without him” and

that “it was absurd to see talent almost wasted by the unavailability of resources.” Each R.A.D. session is designed to corre-late with a concurrent non-school event. For example, the October R.A.D. session included making paper-mache masks for Halloween, and in March they made coffee filter butterflies for spring. Kaplan hopes to expand his program; and all volunteers can get six community service hours for every time they come down and help. They earn seven if they help to drive others downtown. “The best thing about it is the personal satisfac-tion of knowing that I singularly created some-thing that has helped so many people and know-ing that what I do makes a difference,” said Ka-plain. “It has shown me the real power that every-one has to truly make a difference no matter how big or small.” As a stu-dent you have the power to make a difference.

That’s Rad

By Michael Lucci Internet editor

Bloomfield Board of Education moves to approve one high school decisionBy Ryan ToussaintStaff Writer

cont. on A2

By Stephanie GranowitzStaff Writer

Quick facts

It is predicted that by 2044, print news-papers will be non-existant.

Studies show that only 34% of Americans aged 18-34 read the news; of which, only 12% read in print.

Only 9% of teenagers read a daily newspa-per.

By Sarah WirthlinStaff Writer

Sr. Lizzie Baylerian tears up a printed newspaper

As technology ad-vances fear rises that the printed newspaper will become a thing of the past

Lahser graduate gives back by assist-ing Detroit schools.

October 20, 2010

When I Was 17

Teachers reflect

on teen years

Knight Life Future of

seeB1>B6

>The Student Voice of Lahser High SchoolOctober 22, 2010

Football

Volume II, Issue 1www.lahser.bloomfield.org/newspaper

toward one high school in the coming years. Howev-er, it is almost unknown what new amenities the high school will include. The debate of whether to build new or improve the old is the biggest issue still wait-ing for a decision. The voters will go to the polls and decide on November 2. Either way, 1,600 students will be impacted and the housing and educating them is top priority. School district officials have conveyed that during construction students could be moved to Lahser, so that curriculum is not interrupted. A 19 person committee has been formed to answer some of the questions. Mr. David Zulkiewski, an engineering teacher at Lahser High School, serves on the committee to represent the teachers. He explained how Bloomfield Hills Schools has taken an alternative approach to the construction process and contacted separate firms to collectively create the high school. Three groups have been contacted: a visionary consultant (developing what ‘learning is supposed to look like’), an architect (to design the look and functionality of the building), and a construction firm (to build the actual structure). Mr. Zulkiewski stressed that the panel wanted to design and implement something that would be “rev-olutionary for years to come, and give the community

a place to gather around.” Several features have been considered to make the high school different, while still providing a stimulating environment to learn. One proposed design alternative, would be incor-porating alternative energy sources for the school to run off of. Geothermal engineers have looked at the possibility of putting a geothermal (the process of har-nessing the earth’s core heat for energy) system under the new high school. The system would provide a fi-nancial payback in only four years allowing the school to receive ‘free’ energy after. For an aesthetic and functional touch, the new high school could include a skywalk to connect two sections of the school (second floor classrooms at the high school and an administra-tive building across Andover Rd). According to dis-trict panel officials, the proposed skywalk would cost an estimated $5,000,000, but the district says it will get residents’ approval before a final decision is made. The majority of decisions are still unknown, leav-ing a variety of questions still unanswered. However, the residents, panel, and school board hope that the vote on November 2 will clear the air. The dedicated personnel serving on the panel have made great strides to define the new high school. Only time will tell as to what is going to happen; however, hopefully one thing will remain certain-- Bloomfield Hills Schools will remain amongst the top in the country.

cont. from A1

Oct. 1, 2010 Lahser se-nior, Lucas Dauch, report-ed that his car had been stolen from the Lahser parking lot after the varsity football game on Friday night. Sometime between 5:45p and 10:10 P Dauch’s locker was broken into, and his car keys and iPod, along with his vehicle, went missing. After Dauch called the authorities, the Bloomfield Hills

Glue, paint, permanent markers and incense. K2, a chemically altered herb sold as incense (and known as spice) has grown in popularity, mainly because it was, until recently, legal. K2 has recently been banned and noted illegal by the United States Legislation. Just as harmful, if not worse than marijuana, side effects of this drug can lead to death. Sprayed and coated with chemicals, “spice” is not some-thing to take lightly. Trying “spice” could very well be your last mistake, just as it was for David Rozga, a first time user from Iowa. K2, which is abused when users smoke it, was orignally marketed as incense. Users quickly caught on to the effect it has when ingested this way, but they fail to realize that the side effects of “spice” include paranoia, hallucinations, panic attacks, giddiness, nausea and vomiting, as well as unconsciousness. On October 10, 2010, sales of synthetic marijuana were banned and passed as illegal. Before K2 was banned, state representative Rick Jones stated, “This drug is being made in China and also in Korea. It’s being shipped through in our back doors by calling it potpourri and it’s getting directly into the lungs and body of American youth.” Hopefully the banning of K2 sales will slow down teen use in the United States and work towards preventing any future deaths or injuries. It is likely teens will find a way around this new ban, but this legislative decision is one step closer to eliminating alternative drug use among teens.

Deadly street drug recently deemed illegal INCENSED By Staff Writers Erin Antonishen and Courtney Eathorne

Student’s car stolenJunior Lucas Dauch was the vic-tim of theft.By Reiley Manz

New laws passed October 10, 2010 aim to deter the purchase of Spice, commonly known as K2

A2

Looking towards

THE FUTURE

News National: Iphone variation to hit Verizon A3

State: Counselors’ roles expanded- A3

Local: BHSD looks to single high school (see below)

Knight Life

Staff

Editor-in-Chief:Matt Cunningham

Section Editors:Samantha KleinAlex Landschulz

Alex KoroleffBrooke Burchil

Web Editors:Ryan Toussaint

Mike LucciChace Lauring

Photography:Carlie Kraus

Collin MalcolmTenny Birger

Lindsey Ferguson

Photoshop Specialists::Michael Henderson

Jonathon Bell

Business Manager:Ben Guidos

Staff Writers:Alaina Jones

Shannon McAvoyMichael Barr

Dan AllenMichael Gawlik

Jazmynn CroskeyErin Antonishen

Courtney EathorneSarah WorhlinSuzanne MillerEllyce Ferguson

Sun Hao

Contributing Writers:Michael PadillaMichael Saybolt

Julia LongStephanie Granowicz

Sophia GillardoneReilly Manz

Michael Saybolt

Adviser:Mrs. Terri Thav

Technology Adviser:Mrs. Deb Westman

cont. on A3

The above drawing is merely a proposed concept

Quick Facts

* Voting will take place November 2.

*Fielding Nair In-ternational will help lead the community through a facilitated planning and design process starting in mid to late Novem-ber.

* All community members will be invited to share their input on the design- this includes students, parents, teachers.

Stay tuned for dates and times

A2October 22, 2010

Staff Writer

The tallest man made structure to date was of-ficially opened, the H1N1 pandemic dissolved, the International Year of Youth came about ac-cording to the United Na-tions. All of these events have occurred in 2010. According to Lacros-seTribune.com<http://LacrosseTribune.com>, the current year has also led to the expansion of the roles of school guid-ance counselors. “Role of School Guidance Coun-selor Expands Beyond

Career Advice,” an eye-catching October 10 headline reads. Additionally, Profes-sional Regulation Com-mission (PRC) announces that 108 out of 180 passed the Guidance Counselor Licensure Examination given by the Board of Guidance and Counseling in August, a 17% increase from the same exam administered in September 2009. “I have observed, in both of my kids’ schools [Bloomfield Hills Middle School and Bloomfield Hills Lahser High School] that within the past year the guidance counselors have, indeed, taken on greater tasks and respon-sibilities. They seem to be talking to the kids more and helping them with larger issues as opposed

to simply filling holes in their schedules,” said Bloomfield Hills parent Nina Robb, “They’re rein-venting the role of guid-ance counseling and I’m happy that my kids can be a part of it.” With the role of guid-ance counselors increas-ing nationwide comes a wave of new counselors at Lahser itself. Mrs. Jacqui Martinez and Ms. Carla Palazzi, both graduates of Michigan schools and packed with experience and modern ideals simul-taneously, can now be found in Lahser’s coun-seling office. The over all response to Lahser’s new guidance counselors appears overwhelmingly positive. “They’re a lovely group of experienced counselors,” proclaimed senior Ian Kowalewsky,

Counselors assume larger roleswho points to recently retired Lahser counselor Mrs. Karen Hager as a pioneer of the positively developing role of the guidance counselor. “My guidance counselor has been very helpful,” senior Patrick Calhoun noted. “The new guidance counselors have been a great addition to Lahser,” said senior Andre Smith, “[It] seems like they have a lot of good ideas.” For instance, Martinez was an avid participant in a Lahser event promoting inclusion and accep-tance; Challenge Day. Lahser’s new guidance counselors have com-bined with the nationwide expansion of the role of guidance counseling to create an over all posi-tive response from both students and parents.

Select students at Lahser are once again mobilizing to get the entire school involved in promoting responsible decision mak-ing by asking them to sign the Power Pledge in every classroom during Seminar this month. Students Against De-structive Decisions, better known as S.A.D.D. club, created what started as the Tobacco Pledge in order to keep students healthy and smoke-free. Over the years, the pledge evolved into what we now know as the Power Pledge that covers a broader scope of positive lifestyle choices. “S.A.D.D. is a pretty small club, so the Power Pledge is a way for us to branch out and make all Lahser students more aware of the effects of life-altering destruc-tive decisions,” says the club’s sponsor and Health teacher Mrs. Kathy Ab-

bott. “We used to pass the contracts out at lunch, but we thought Seminar would be a better way to promote [the pledge].” By signing the Power Pledge, students are say-ing that they will try to commit to eight behaviors to increase their safety as well as the safety of oth-ers around them. These include avoiding the use of tobacco, illegal drugs, the illegal use of prescrip-tion drugs, and drinking and driving. S.A.D.D. hopes that students will make honorable decisions, not only for their health, but for the purpose of adopting morality among the community as well. Thus, the Power Pledge also calls upon everyone to respect themselves and others in relationships and to kindly reach out to anyone who seems to have social struggles. There are misconcep-tions about the Power Pledge as well as mixed perceptions about its effectiveness. It is im-portant to know that students who sign the contract are not techni-cally bound to their com-mitment and will not be punished by the school in any way for violating it.

In fact, after the contracts are signed and collected, they are counted with names being disregarded and never recorded or put on display. “We’re not trying to get anyone in trouble,” ensures Mrs. Ab-bott. “The goal is to make better people in the com-munity by using common values to increase moral-ity, trust, and respect.” Of course, there are still stu-dents who do not share the values of the Power Pledge or don’t take the contract seriously. “We know a lot of people just throw them away or do the opposite of what’s on the pledge,” says Senior Amanda Paulsen, a S.A.D.D. club officer who is among the 80% of Lahser students who signed the pledge last year. Fellow senior Killian McClure laughingly com-ments, “They’re lame. No one actually signs those.” Students who do sign the Power Pledge will receive a “Knight Power” pencil, and anyone interested in further promoting respon-sible behavior can attend S.A.D.D. club meets in the Health Room (204) from 2:40-3:30 PM on most Thursdays or contact Mrs. Abbott for information.

Power PledgePromotion of morality and smart deci-sions or just a bad joke?

Many Verizon Wireless customers have been frus-trated over the last few years by Apple Computer Inc. Since 2007, Apple had an agreement with rival carrier, AT&T, that their new iPhone would be an AT&T exclusive. At last, this frustration to Verizon customers is over. Apple’s iPhone was first unveiled in June of 2007, and since then, this remarkable piece of technology has evolved to suit consumers in any way possible. Unfor-tunately for anyone but AT&T customers, they could not have one of these new shiny phones. This contract with AT&T actually led to people switching carriers just so they could get their hands on the iPhone. Lahser Media Specialist, Lindsey Scott, an AT&T customer said, “I know friends who switched to AT&T for the iPhone”. The iPhone has played a large role in AT&T’s growing success over the years, however according to consumer reports, Verizon still is slightly ahead in terms of network size and quality. The iPhone is an ex-tremely data-hungry phone; while all of its mystical apps are quite incredible and great informational tools, all that information has to

come from somewhere – the internet, via AT&T’s network. This put a tremendous strain on their network and AT&T has only made minimal efforts at best to improve this. “My phone always drops calls.,” said senior Omar Jammooa, who is also an AT&T customer. Ironically enough, AT&T is the carrier that put ads on TV stating that they have the fewest dropped calls. They also appeared to be moving in the wrong direction compared to other carriers – while other carriers are moving towards more data plans and cheaper prices, AT&T ended their unlimited data plan, yet Verizon still offers this amazing plan. This is bad news for the iPhone owners as their phone will now run up an even bigger bill. The latest installment of the iPhone – the iPhone 4, has even more people desperate to go buy this Apple product – at least AT&T customers. 40 million iPhones have been sold so far world-wide. Meanwhile all the other wireless carrier customers sit there and envy AT&T customers. However, this restriction will finally end as of the first quarter of 2011. This will finally be hope for many Verizon customers as well as fed-up AT&T customers, because Apple announced that by then, it will be mass producing an iPhone that will work on Verizon’s network. Verizon’s current com-petition to the iPhone is the Motorola Droid

and HTC Droid Incred-ible phones, powered by Google’s Android soft-ware. While it is a popu-lar system, it still makes up much less market share than the iPhone. Of the smartphone subscribers across all car-riers, Verizon makes up 26.8%, while AT&T makes up 38% (largest percent-age. Of The 26.8% of Verizon smartphones, only 36.4% of them are Android phones, while AT&T’s 38% market share for smartphones is 68.7% iPhones. The iPhone has driven AT&T very close to the top, and after 4 years, it will finally be available to Verizon customers. “I have waited so long for the iPhone to come to Verizon.” Said Trevor Linet, a Verizon customer. AT&T customers who are sick of AT&T prices, especially for data plans, are now free to switch to Verizon and still be able to have an iPhone – at least once their AT&T 2 year contract expires. With AT&T losing its lock on its most popular phone, AT&T’s network has few advantages left. Their network is still the only one which supports web browsing while calling someone. Also AT&T has other new phones such as Research in Motion’s Blackberry Torch. Other than those couple advantages, the playing field will be lev-eled between the rivaling wireless companies for future customers seeking an iPhone. The news of the iPhone coming to Verizon will make many non-AT&T apple enthusiasts happy because they will finally be among the hundreds of proud iPhone owners

VeriPhoneAt long lost, verizon cus-tomers can en-joy the iphone

Hours: M-F 9:00 - 6:00 PM

631 S. Opdyke Rd.Auburn Hills, MI 48326 (248) 335-3730

Brown’s Barber Shop

News

Throughout the country, coun-selors are being given new re-sponsibilities

By Julia Long

By Bianca NguyenGuest Writer

News

ONLINE COLLEGE PLANNING TOOL NOW AVAILABLE.

Our school now offers Peterson’s StudentEdge—an online college planning tool with free access to the tools you need for college suc-cess. Feeling stressed about what major to choose? Wondering which colleges you should apply to? Thinking about college tuition al-ready? StudentEdge offers person-alized college planning that’s based on you and offers guidance in the following areas: • Find the best college for your academicgoals, social interests, and financial needs• Access a scholarship search worth more than $8 billion• Improve your SAT, ACT, and PSAT scores with online courses and practice tests• Explore potential career paths based on your interests and talents Log on today at www.mystu-dentedge.com! Our school access code is:RTRNMWLM If you haven’t registered yet, it will take just a moment to do so. Then, you can access this great re-source 24/7 from school or home….whenever you want.

October 22, 2010

Verizon brings new variation of Iphone to wireless market.See below for details

A3

By Michael SayboltGuest Writer

“They don’t care about us” is the attitude that most students display when it comes to the administration and the new lunch schedule. But while it’s true that the changes this year have been momentous, what’s not true is a lack of administration concern. In fact, the administration cares deeply about what the students think of the new lunch period. “I’m aware of the concerns students have and we’re

addressing the situation,” says Principal Charlie Hollerith. “We’re still working out the kinks.” Lunch has brought with it a great number of changes this year. Some - such as cutting the time down to 25 minutes and closing open lunch - have been less than spectacular, however, many students have overlooked the positive aspects of the new schedule. New seating and a wider variety of food offered have both proven to be pleasant improvements. “The cafeteria is better,” says Soph. O’Neal Koger, “but there’s not really enough time to eat.” Most students agree that the lunch is too short and doesn’t allow enough time to finish their food, especially when buying or traveling before or after lunch. However, there is a fair amount of controversy surrounding whether or not the administration plans on correcting the problems. The vast majority of students believe that lunch will remain as is. “They haven’t done anything yet, so why will they?” says So. Christine Enright. Others agree that while the administration understands there is a problem, they aren’t prepared to take action. “They care,” says Soph. Chris Garcia, “but it’s more important they get the curriculum in.” Some, however, like Sr. Brian Freeburg, believe that changes are soon to come. “Shortening lunch is stupid, it hurts the teachers and students,” says Freeburg. “But next year they’ll make changes. They’ll realize they made a mistake.” It is true that adjustments to the lunch schedule may be made in the future. “I think there would be a possibility of shrinking passing time and extending lunch,” said Hollerith, who has made a commitment to buy from the cafeteria every day. But with things as they are, students should be optimistic about lunch. “We’ve added new lines: the “Sandwich Bar” and “Salad Bar,” by request,” he also said. “There’s been an increase in variety.”

ViewsHow much is enough?

Students weigh on on the amount of lunch time needed to eat and unwind.

Sr. Taylor Dickey 40 minutes

Sr. Nick Emery 45 minutes

Jr. Dan Allen 30 minutes

Soph. Ryan King 45 minutes

So. Laura Redman 45 minutes

Fr. Mandee Rivera 45 minutes

Mrs. Anita Maicki 40 mintes

The new lunch has been tough on both students and teachers, however, they should know that the administration is aware of their concerns. “We need to get feedback,” Hollerith stated. So solving the problems of new lunch is dependent on not only the administration but the students as well.

IT’S NOT FUNNY

Senior Ben Guidos demonstrates a common bullying technique of ‘chair yanking’

Rush half hourBy Michael Gawlik

Honesty Box see A5

Picture a typical schoolyard bully. He has an abun-dance of facial hair, even at the age of thirteen, due to his premature hormonal imbalance, and his cliché rea-sons for victimizing the smaller preteens are lack of affection from his parents or a deep insecurity that he feels compelled to inflict on others. Bullies, however, come in all shapes and sizes and can cause irreversible mental and physical damage. The seriousness of bul-lying has grabbed the attention of a group called Ac-tionwork. Actionwork is an organization that fights to raise awareness of the severity of bullying and seeks to eliminate it from schools across the United States. Since 2003, Actionwork has even dedicated an entire week to bring their efforts to the forefront. This year’s Anti-bully week was all too necessary, considering the terrifying bullying reports thus far in 2010. One of the most devastating cases of bullying hap-pened to a Rutgers University freshman by the name of Tyler Clementi. Tyler had asked his roommate for some privacy one evening, which gave his classmate the idea to hide a video camera in their dorm. While spying via web cam, Tyler’s roommate found him being intimate with another man. Even though his sexuality had been a complete secret until said night, Tyler’s roommate made the thoughtless decision to not only post the video evidence online but to update his Twitter status to make certain everybody knew Tyler’s secret. Two days later Tyler Clementi commit-ted suicide as a result of the bullying that followed his premature coming out. Incidents like Tyler’s seem tragic but uncommon. However, the scary truth is that bullying happens nearly everywhere in the Unites States and needs to be prevented. That is exactly why Actionwork has instigated Anti-bully week. This week of awareness promoted schools across America to participate in activities that uprooted bullying while simultaneously alerting students of its severity. These activities in-clude anti-bully poetry contests and awareness poster competitions with a prize for the winning student team. In some schools, students actually created and voted on their own anti-bullying policy at an assembly held by Actionwork. It is these kinds of activities that can help to eliminate bullying before it takes hold of an innocent child. Even though Actionwork is busy preventing bullying, it is our responsibility as students to raise awareness and to have the willingness to stand up for what is right.

By Matt CunninghamEditor-in-Chief

In the wake of a college student’s suicide, Knight Life takes a closer look at teen bullying.

See teen bullyingbelow

Below: Students rush to finish lunch in 25 minutes.

October 22, 2010 A4

October 18, 2010Views >New schedule earns criticism

Interview with ShaggyQ: Who is the cutest girl in school?A: Emily Sante

Interview with-Bon Qui- QuiQ: Who do you want to go to homecoming with?A: Keegan Kelly

Interview with Not Margaret MetzgerQ: Who do you have an obsessive crush on?

A: Luke Dauch

Interview with I am ????????Q: Who are you head over heals for?A: Joey Gikas

Interview with the Greek GodQ: Who are you diggin?A: Maddie Segassar

The Honesty Box

Reading glasses, self-tan-ner, and slicked back hair. These are just some of the crazy ideas that students came up with for this year’s picture day, while administration successful-ly prevented even crazier ideas, like vampirism. “It is a violation of our rights to control what we are wearing on pic-ture day,” said Jr. Alex Landschulz. While some students think it is incor-rect for administration to regulate their school pic-tures, others understand that they have a responsi-bility to control the image of our school. According to Associ-ate Principal Tracy Hall, pictures are reviewed by LifeTouch managers and some are deemed unacceptable. In extreme cases, photographers could even lose their jobs over a bad or silly picture. Some students had to take their pictures fi ve or more times before Hall allowed them to be printed on an ID. Contrary to popular belief, these photos are, according to Mrs. Debra Wagner, not sent along with college applications. Wagner also stated that the only college that she could remember asking for a photograph was Hill-sdale College last year. So why does the school make such a big deal about students and how they act and look in their school pictures? What are picture IDs actu-ally used for? For seniors they are not placed in the yearbook, they don’t get sent to prospective col-leges, and they are purely taken out of necessity and school mandate. Wrong! Say a student is in an accident and they don’t have a license on them, but they do have their school ID. Paramed-ics can identify them with that. Or let’s say a student gets lost and an amber alert is sent out. In this case authorities typically use the student’s school ID to post and fi nd that person. Hall also stated that the administration keeps all student pictures in of-fi cial books and use them to identify each kid. So to answer the ques-tion, do pictures really matter that much? For our own safety, yes they do!

A5

Do school pictures re-ally matter?Withi re-takes fi nished, students wonder how much their ID photos re-ally matter.By Brian FreebergStaff Writer

With anonymity on their side, students are able to freely answer With anonymity on their side, students are able to freely answer The Honesty Box

With anonymity on their side, students are able to freely answer The Honesty BoxThe Honesty Box

With anonymity on their side, students are able to freely answer The Honesty Box

questions inside ‘the honesty box.’

Interview with ShaggyQ: Who is the cutest girl in school?A: Emily Sante

Interview with ShaggyQ: Who is the cutest girl in school?A: Emily Sante

The New DealThe New DealThe New DealThe New DealJunior students weigh in on the 2010-11 new scheduleJunior students weigh in on the 2010-11 new schedule

“I don’t like the shorter

lunches. They could shorten the passing

time.”

JuniorBrandi Akins

“We’re on the right

track, but I don’t think we’re there

yet.”

JuniorErik Kelly

The classes and time are pretty good, but lunch

needs to be extended. We don’t need as much passing

tiime.”

JuniorTrevor Massa

“Our school is small enough

that eight mintes that eight mintes is enough time.”

JuniorJessica Wozniac

“It makes classes more tedious and makes trav-eling to and from school

lighter.”

JuniorMitchell Gall

October 22, 2010

By Collin Malcolm and Carlie Kraus

“Seminar is too short. It’s hard to get anything done.” says Junior

Nicole Duhaime (left)

Editorial

Priceless!

HC kits= $15Cowboy hat=$17 Pajamas=$20Memories of HC Week= PricelesS

Life

Solar Senior

Most seniors spent their summer relaxing on the beach; Ryan Toussaint spent his working on the roof. Toussaint, a straight A student, designed, orga-nized and brought to life several solar energy panels on top of Lahser’s science wing. “I had to assemble the reaching system, mount them on the roof and

wire everything together,” said Toussaint. All of this came, of course, after the laborious design of the panels. Toussaint came up with concept and design of the plan in an Independent Study Science class last year with teacher Jessica Lupone. “The majority of it was done in Independent Study,” said Toussaint. “Mrs. Lupone helped a lot, she allowed me to pursue the idea and supported me throughout.” However, it was Toussaint’s drive to achieve that made the entire undertaking possible. “I have an in-terest in alternative energy and I wanted a real world experience,” says Toussaint, who plans on studying

Senior Ryan Toussaint implemented a design to create solar energy in Lahser’s science wing.By Michael Gawlik

Ryan Toussaint installs solar energy in the Lahser science wing.

cont. on B6

>B6

HopelesslyhauntedHaunted house over promises and under delivers

Brian Freeburg and Sophia Gilardone

Allison Brazezinski

The haunted house the Realm Of Dark-ness put out an ad in the newspaper that stated “Face the Wizard and get back double your admission price!” What that ad didn’t tell you was that you can never face the wizard; you will always lose. Realm of Darkness, now located at 37 Turk St Pontiac, MI 48341 has been around for a while. Over the course of the past few years there has been a rising concern among thrill-seekrs, in that there has been a lack of variety and change brought to the amusement with each passing year. Similar ads have ap-peared for the attraction in past years, leading many to believe it is a direct result of the lack of change. The matter here is you can never win because the odds are skewed against you. During you time in the haunted house you have opportunities to earn gems while you go through the house. Over have the opportu-nity to earn up to 4 gems during you time in the haunted house. Senior mike Padilla went though the house and at the end told everyone, “What the heck I only got one freaking gem!” At the end of the haunted house they ask you to pull out your gems and a man would give you one chance to have a guy flip over a cup of dice and if you get all the dice the same num-ber you win and you get to get double your money back. I spoke with a worker for the Realm Of Darkness, Corey Petros, and he ex-plained how no one will or ever win. Another worker at the realm of darkness, who wishes to remain anonymous, stated “You can try your hardest, but ever since I’ve been working here, for about fouryears, I have never seen anyone win.” This just means people should go and be excited to be scared, but should never expect to ever get their money back or a free T-shirt.

By Keegan Kelly

Everybody likes new things, but it’s not always good to be a member of new places. It means everything is unknown to you, it’s easy to get lost, you need time to get used to new sched-ule, and few people will come talk to you. The interesting thing is, everyone has the same ques-tion: “How do you like here so far?”“I think it’s wonderful!” As an exchange student, I am lucky to have the chance to come to Michigan, and go to Lash-er High School. Inside the tidy, brown building, there is a colorful world full of friendly people. I can’t forget my first day here. Sydney. Cassar in 9th grade answered my endless questions patient-ly, Saemyi. Choi in 12th grade shared seats with me during the lunch time, Ms. Maicki showed me the way to my locker. My first foreigner friend, 10th grade student Antonia. Smith stayed with me after school until my host mother picked me up. Another fellow student was in a hurry, but still stopped to help me open my locker. The next morning, when I went to say “hello” to her, this busy girl just rushed to me and opened my locker, then she went on her way. I sometimes think of those guys in my spare time. Last weekend when I sat in the car on the

In my own wordsChinese exchange student Sun Hao reflects on life at LHS

By Sue HaoStaff Writer

Mary Catherine Moeller

Grandma

Robbie Emmitt

Alex Nault

Makenah Champion

cont. on B6

Page A6October 22, 2010

Twist and shout

Some think Lahser’s low GPA requirements may be giving an unfair advantage to our athletes, over those in surrounding districts. Here at Lahser, the minimum GPA requirement for athletes is about a 1.8. Most athletes have no problem meeting this requirement; however, an unlucky few are affected every year. Tre’s Seay-Justice, a sophomore at Lahser, is just one of those affected by the policy. Seay-Justice was declared ineligible to participate this football season due to his grades last year, and his in-ability to attend summer classes this summer. “Money is a big factor,” Seay-Justice said. Full credit summer classes cost up to $450 per class. But Lahser’s Head Football Coach, Dan Loria, be-lieves that the policy is not strict enough. “The mini-mum GPA requirement should be raised to motivate kids to perform in the classroom,” he said. “There will always be a certain amount of kids who will struggle in the classroom.” Coach Loria requires at least a 2.5

GPA during the year. He went on to explain that only two students have been deemed ineligible to play on the football team in his last four years of coaching, a number that hardly seems to affect the team at all. Kira Jacobs, a senior at Lahser, recently transferred from Michigan Technical Academy in Detroit. Jacobs ran track at MTA, and said that a 2.5 minimum GPA was required for all sports. A number that is signifi-cantly higher than the minimum at Lahser. These high expectations mean a greater number of students strug-gling to meet the minimum, and athletes that could potentially make a difference on their respective sports teams sitting on the bench. It seems that athletes at La-hser have an easier time meeting the minimum, which leads to more players per team and more opportunity to put the best team on the field. However, the low GPA requirement here at Lahser could reflect the difficulty of classes here compared to other districts. Lahser is known for its rigorous cur-riculum, and now with the International Baccalaure-ate Diploma Program, some students will be stretch-ing their schedules even more. Athletes at Lahser are

What do you consid-er a fair GPA require-ment to play on a sports team?

Academically Ineligible

Senior Tennyson Birger demonstrates the isolation of a student deemed academically ineligible to play sports.

See Ineligible

B2

4the

future

Senior golf captain Anna Metzger leads a winning golf team with confidence and praise.

It was a cold and violently windy day on the Huron Meadows golf course, but the terrible golfing conditions were no match for Senior Captain, Anna Metzger’s golf game and mental stabil-ity. She shot an impressive score of 92 her first day out, and inspired the rest of her team mates to match her success. “Al-though I do play number one sometimes I do not consider myself the star golfer, be-cause we all shoot around the same score.” Metzger stated. “It’s a team effort.”

See Metzger B2Senior Anna Metzger prepares for practice

United we stand

Lahser Jr. Michael Lucci tenses his body, preparing to stop the opponent from taking a shot on net. As the attack man dodges at Mike from the left, Mike checks his stick, trying to knock the ball out. He misses and the attack man rips a shot on net. SAVE! Andover Sr. Ari Cicurel makes the save, and together the two athletes from opposing schools work together to save the day.

Even though Lahser and Andover are typically rivals, when it comes to la-crosse and hockey, they join forces as allies. Each school alone does not have enough student athletes to form a Varsity and Junior Varsity team. The district unified the local high schools, including the International Academy, in order to make the programs competitive and successful. “The more student athletes a program has to choose from the more kids and more talent there is,” said Ari Cicurel.

1. Make sure the second string is well prepared in case of injuries. The Knights have been plagued by injuries this season, and the reserve players need to be ready to step up as needed. 2. Practice Teamwork. Every good squad starts with the realization that there is no “I” in team. 3. Gain support from fans. The Knights need to regain the confidence and support of loyal fans by winning early on in the season.4. Play a full game. Good teams don’t quit at half time; they make adjustments. To win next season, we need to commit to a full game.

Sports Congratula-tions to all fall sports teams on successful seasons!

By Michael PadillaStaff Writer

continued on B2

By Kenny McGeeStaff Writer

By Ellyce FergusonSports Writer

By Reilly ManzStaff Writer

Being Meticulous

“The squad is stronger to-

gether than it ever could be

alone.”

Whether it’s the new golf coach or the new and motivated players, the La-hser golf team has definitely improved as a whole. With one of the largest turnouts to date for golf tryouts (over twenty girls), this year’s team is by far one of Lahser’s strongest. The varsity team contains seven highly motivated and competitive players, who work hard to earn their spots every week. Placing fourth in the league and second in their

Caroline Cooke - 2.5Riley Palmer - NoneMr. Tony - 3.0Alyssa Kitts - 3.0Brett Wietecha - 3.3Alex Jackson - 3.0Tyler Roth - .85

,

Sophomore SensationMichael Gawlik see

B2

Twisted ankles, broken arms, sprains and strains, all common injuries that Lahser’s new trainer John Ciecko, deals with every day. Ciecko says that he first became interested in being a trainer back in college. “I used to play fo-

New trainer John Ciecko treats Lahs-er’s aches and pains.

otball, but then I got hurt. I started to spend a lot of time in the trainers room and I loved it.. Before working at La-hser, Ciecko used to work full time with Oakland University as an assistant athletic trainer, and part time with the Michigan Bucks. Although he has had a very successful career, he described the change of working at Lah-

ser High School as more flexible and different than working at OU. “I don’t travel as much as I did compared to what I used to. I spent a lot of time at work and didn’t really see friends and family members much.” While Ciecko is happy with the new change of pace, many Lahser athletes are also impressed with the new trainer’s

By Lindsey FergusonStaff Writer

B1

Four ways LHS football can step it up in 2011

cont. B2

October 22, 2010

Sports

Summertime, to most, means catching up on much needed sleep. To Michael Gawlik, it meant catching up on his competition. Gawlik, a sophomore at Lahser transformed his role on Lahser’s cross country team, from ‘pack runner’ to ‘lead runner.’ Michael started his second season on the team when school ended in June- far before the official cross country August start date. Over the summer, Gawlik racked up an impressive 500 miles of running-- a distance farther than Detroit to New York City! He hoped his effort would transition him into a successful sophomore year. “I wanted to improve and achieve new goals this season” Gawlik said.

Michael Gawlik is not your average runner. Running 17:57 this year in his first race (for 3.1 miles), as compared to a freshman time of 19:57, he has already run two minutes faster (a length that any runner will tell is eye-opening). A pair of eyes that have definitely been opened are head coach, Nick Stration’s. “Michael is one of our top runners and the team looks to him to lead”, said Stration. The sophomore sensation seems to be on his way to accomplishing whatever he puts his mind to. As for the remainder of the season, Gawlik hopes to be academic all-state and break 17 minutes.

Although Michael is one of the team’s top runners when he crosses the finish line, his off-the-course personality is something that teammates try to emulate. Varsity captain, Chris Craig, explained “Michael has a zany personality and is a really good guy.” Newcomer, Jackson Prepolec, commented “Michael is one person who I look up to and enjoy being around.” The team, itself, is off to a great start with counties fast approaching and the state meet waiting in the wings. The team, however, knows hard work is what is going to determine its outcome.

“The only time success comes before work is in the dictionary” is a saying Stration frequently reminds the cross country team. As a result, the team has embraced this and is determined to get results. The season is young, but the growing up that Michael Gawlik has done in the last year is sure to take him far.

Hard work and determination helped Michael Gawlik rise to stardom on this year’s track and field team

Practice makes perfect for sophomore track star Michael Gawlik, who spent his sum-mer training to ensure success on the 2010-11 track team.

Ineligible

encouraged to excel in the class-room as well as on the field. Before and after school tutoring programs are offered everyday, and coaches implement their own personal GPA requirements to match the high standards of surrounding districts. Lahser’s athletes are not being given an advantage over those in other districts. On paper, the GPA policies may be low compared to surrounding schools. But the requirements are virtually the same thanks to the coaching staffs and difficulty of curriculum at Lahser. The field is where athletes compete. Not in a classroom, and not on a report card.

first eighteen-hole tournament, the team was off to a competitive start. Practice is one of their leading con-tributions to victory. “I like to make practice fun, and not too serious. We practice hard, work on what we’re struggling with but at the same time enjoy the game of golf,” Metzger stated. Both co-captains Anna Metzger and Madison Seggasser do a great job leading the golf team, and have adjusted to the new coach with-out any difficulty. “The new coach is definitely very different from our last one, but he pushes us to do well and play our best. He’s very supportive and cares about us and he wants us to do our best, and does everything to help us so that we can do our best,” Metzger stated. With the new coach, enthusias-tic co-captains, and motivated players, this season will continue to be both prosperous and memorable.

By Ryan ToussaintWeb Editor

Being Meticulouscont. from A4

Anna Metzger and Suzanne Miller are watched at practice by Coach Harrington.

SOPHOMORE SENSATION

Lucci adds, “The squad is stron-ger together than it ever could be alone.” When the two high schools com-bine, all sports programs and clubs will merge. This will surely in-crease the success of the programs, but will there be enough spots for all of the athletes to have a fair op-portunity? Along with more successful pro-grams, there are cons to the unifica-tion. “I don’t like the fact that we lose the rivalry aspect in a way,” said Soph. Kevin Barnett. “If you watch football, soccer, volleyball or any other sports, you know the Lah-ser Andover rivalry has always been a tradition. So we lose that sense of rivalry.” All in all, the unification of these programs has greatly helped to strengthen them. Surely the same will happen with the rest of the sports and clubs when the two schools merge.

Twist and shoutcont. from B1

approach to training. Junior Joey Gikas says “I like how he knows what he’s talking about. He’s relaxed, cool headed, and good looking.” Freshman charlie dauch also agrees with this statement, “he’s funny, knows how to take a

joke, and he’s knowledge-able and passionate about what he does.” Cieko de-scribed Lahser as a good area with good students, a good sports program, and close to home. He says that this job is a lot less stressful than his old job at OU where everythning was based on the teams wins. At Lahser, John has a great reputation and enjoys working with the rest of the wonderful staff. “I like working with Avis and Mr.Hollerith and the rest of the staff at Lahser, they’re great.”

Lahser’s new athletic trainer John Ciecko, pictured left, exam-ines an injured play-er on the bench.

United we stand

cont. from B1

Trainer John Ciecko checks a potential injury during a football game.

cont. from B1

MERCY! Soccer success

Volley for a cure-B3

Arts Upcoming Concert

If You Like This Listen To ThatAsher Roth � Sam AdamsTaio Cruz � Down With WebsterMike Posner � Mickey AvalonKe$ha � Far East Movement

B.O.B. � Cee-Lo GreenThe Killers � Brandon Flowers

Jacks Mannequin � fun.Katy Perry � Janelle Monae

Brooke BurchillEntertainment Editor

It’s kind of a funny story, but than anything it’s a coming-of-age story for every teen that has ever felt the pressures and stresses of high school life. Keir Gilchrist was the breakout star of the fi lm, with a character depth and relatability that can only be achieved by actors well worn in their craft. His character, Craig, battles with the everyday pressures of getting into college, getting a girlfriend (or boyfriend), and being a “cool” kid in his high school. Ironically, once he admitted himself into the mental health ward, he was nicknamed “Cool Craig”. Gilchrist surprises with his exceptional talents portraying the kid that maybe isn’t as troubled as he thought. Zach Galifi anakis proved himself a serious actor for the fi rst time in Story. It would be diffi cult to walk into the fi lm without immediately connecting Galifi anakis to his breakout role in The Hangover, but he makes it even more challenging to continue that connection once he appears in Story. He truly stole the spotlight from Gilchrist as the fi lms biggest, and best, surprise. The most interesting scenes were those that diverted from reality and delved into Craig’s “messed up little mind” to reveal his imagination at work. One of the most incredible examples of screenplay was a scene in which the audience explores Craig’s thoughts as he discovers that he has a remarkable gift at drawing build-ings and cities. What proved to be the masterpiece of the fi lm was the cast’s rendition of Queen and David Bowie’s hit “Under Pressure”. In a group music activity, Craig is stuck singing lead vocals and fi nds, once again, that he is gifted in ways he never knew before. As the scene transforms from the ordinary lounge in the hospital wing to the inner workings of Craig’s imagination, one cannot help but be captivated by the passion and pure energy channeled by him and his new friends’ performance. The scene truly captured every child’s dream of becoming a rock star and took it to the next level with Freddy Mercury- and David Bowie-inspired outfi ts, a full band playing in perfect key, and plenty of sparkles to complete the dream-like sequence.

Carrie UnderwoodNov. 21

Must See Movie

By Courtney Eathorne, Staff Writer

Hollywood premieres, fi lm auditions in various cities around the country, even the occasional tea with a couple of Disney channel stars. Imagine trying to contain your excitement about such a fabulous lifestyle all while doing your best to pay attention to Mr. Odom teach World History. This is the life of Lahser freshman Alora Smith. Only 14 years old and Alora has been lucky enough discover what she truly has a passion for in this world. Knight Life was lucky enough to get a chance to talk to Alora about her fabulous life so far.

KL: What does a typical week look like for you? (how often are you on set, out of town, etc.)

AS: Well acting is a unpredicatable business, you have have a week with nothing going on then another week you could have 3 auditions and shooting a movie! Lately, I’ve been going to chicago a lot for auditions though. Im on set maybe about once a week for approaching midnight, which is a fi lm we are working on right now.

KL: How did you get started in what you do?

AS: When I was about 10, I had an interest in theater and I went to the Young Actors Camp in california for about 2 weeks that summer. When I was there I decided I would rather go towards the fi lm side, so I started taking acting lessons and getting headshotd and fi nding agents.

KL: What projects have you done or are you working on?

AS: I just shot a Trolli candy commercial in Chicago, also I just booked a movie role for a short fi lm called the perfect skate in chicago. I was in Rob Reiners” Flipped” last summer, and I had a couple speaking lines! I have done several inde-pendant fi lms and short fi lms and commercials and print/modeling work.

KL: Where do you see yourself in ten years?

AS: I really hope to see myself as a successful actor either on a tv series or get-ting lead roles in feature fi lms.

KL: What was the coolest “hollywood” moment for you?

AS: I would have to say the Flipped premiere in california a couple months ago, there were lots of famous people and a lot of photographers took my pictures and put them online! Also when I was at the young actors camp, a few people were selected to have special meetings with the stars that they bring, and I was picked! So I got to have a tea party (yes with tea and muffi ns and everything) with Selena Gomez, and ate breakfast with Kyle Massey.

Young Hollywood Knights

Matt Cunningham Editor in Chief

When the day has arrived that a platinum pop princess can accept a music award scandalously clad in a garment so heavy it requires the assistance of three able bod-ied men, and it passes for normalcy, it is safe to assume that pop culture has fallen off the deep end. At this year’s Video Music Awards, broadcasted on MTV, Lady Gaga swept the competition by scoring three of the most coveted awards, including Best Music Video of the Year. The most exciting moment of the night was not the pop sensation’s acceptance speech, but rather her comedic and melodramatic stroll to the podium. She was sporting an elaborate, all black dress that weighed her down and demanded the assistance of three members of Gaga’s posse. This comic oddity was not in fact considered to be out of the range of possibility for the freaky, trend-setting singer, which should be the most stunning news of all. In today’s pop culture, uniqueness has taken on a whole new meaning and indi-viduality has pushed the envelope past its bursting point. With unusual art direction for music videos, unfl attering yet somehow chic wardrobes and makeup that con-sumes 85% of the wearer’s face it is no surprise that Hollywood has taken a turn for the weirder. When Lady Gaga was introduced to the mainstream music industry only a few years ago she paved the way for a whole new generation of boundary-pushing and overdone artists. Her message empowers individuality and creativity, but has inadvertently infl uenced many existing artists and has caused an upset in their music careers. For example, in her earlier years Rihanna was a strong pop singer, leading with her prominent and distinct voice. She has only recently begun to adjust her style and music to cater to a new era of fashion and pop culture. Her music videos departed from her routine image and began to drift in a Gaga-inspired direction. Most impor-tantly, she has even sacrifi ced her wardrobe and personal fashion choices to be the newest and most talked about celebrity. She was recently spotted with radiant and slightly obnoxious fi re-red hair. This stunt was a success in the sense that she was a hot topic for a matter of weeks, but once the tabloids grew tired of her new look she was left with a heinously tacky hairdo and the memories of her fi fteen minutes in the spotlight. So it would seem that the quest for the next trendy statement is an ongoing goose chase, and idols such as Lady Gaga are nothing more than the “It Girls” of the mo-ment. However, the irony remains that Gaga’s message to her fans and to the world is to search inside one’s self for creativity and expression, but her colleagues in the music industry have obeyed the antithesis of her ideals. Bizarre and wildly color-ful icons like Lady Gaga will always have a dramatic effect on pop culture and less prominent artists will always be just a few steps behind.

Gaga Over Gaga

October 22, 2010 B4

http://hiperpop.com/fi les/2010/09/lady-gaga-los-angeles-concert-0313094.jpg

http://cdn.sheknows.com/realitytvmaga-zine/2009/12/carrie-underwood.jpg

WHEN WE WERE 17...

engineering next year. “The Independent Study class helped. It was a place where I could learn about stuff outside of the state curriculum.” Many other students are also impressed and in-spired by Toussaint’s dedi-cation and innovation. “I don’t know a lot about it,” says Fr. Sydney Cassar, “but it’s good that he gave back to the community. I think it will have a posi-tive effect on our school.” The solar panels have indeed already made an impact on Lahser. While it’s impressive that the energy they gather powers 20% of the science hall, what’s even better is the inspiration it will bring to students. “The purpose is to promote Lahser’s ‘Green’ initiatives,” said Toussaint. “I hope that it encourages other people to do stuff.” By stepping out of the norm, Ryan Toussaint has created something totally unique that will help both Lahser and the community as a whole. He has cre-ated more than just solar panels; he has created an inspiration for others.

Solar Senior

cont. from A6

Comfort zones. Every single one of us thinks we know exactly what we like, who to trust and the way our lives should be. But what if we all were to step out of our comfort zones and for one day, be nothing but real? That’s exactly what Challenge Day, which made it’s return to Lahser for the second time on September 22, is all about. This year Challenge Day dared 100 sophomores and juniors, as well as various adult volunteers to step outside of their comfort zones and “get real”. The event sparked even more interest among students this year thanks to the new MTV series, If You Really Knew Me, which premiered earlier this summer. More than 130 students applied to participate this year, a remarkable increase from last year, when the event had to be opened up to seniors as well, just to reach the ideal number of 100 participants The show, which chronicles Challenge Day being held at high schools across the country, served as a catalyst to get participants excited and informed about the event. “I definitely think that the television show will help to increase our student’s understanding of the event.” says Mr. Woodberg, social worker at Lahser and coordina-

tor of Challenge Day. “This will likely produce even better results for our students who attend this year’s event. They will most likely get even more out of it, which in turn will carry over to their classmates who they interact with on an everyday basis.” Before the day arrived, students were asked what they were ex-pecting. “I’m expecting it to be a fun experience that we can share with our peers.” said Soph. Katelyn Atkinson. “I have seen it, it looks interesting and I hope that challenge day resembles that in some way,” Regardless of what people may have heard from students who attended last year, or what they had seen on MTV, Challenge Day proved to be a unique experience for everyone involved. While the activities resemble, even mirror, what takes place on If You Really Knew Me, the event is much more rewarding, enlightening and real in your own school, surrounded by your own peers. No TV show could really impact what students took away from it. For Jr. Emily Pearce, t it was an amazing experience and nothing like what she thought it was going to be. Participants like Pearce, may not have known exactly how the events were going to play out but that didn’t make their experience less rewarding. For participants who had seen it, and had some idea of how the day would be run, like Jr. Bri Neff, agree that it was more than they would have ever expected. “It was such an enlightening experience,” says Neff. With Challenge Day now long over, it’s up to the participants to take what they learned into their own and Lahser’s environment and be the change they want to see in their lives. In the end, that’s what Challenge Day is all about.

Challenge Day forced teens to step out of social circles and connect with fellow peers.

By Courtney Eathorne

LifeLife The Student voice of Lahser high

school

If you really knew Lahser

Knight Life: If you had to describe yourself with a high school stereotype, what were you?Mr. Bigham: “I was a quiet jock. I played sports and stuff, but I wasn’t a really outspoken person.”

KL: Who was the heartthrob in your day?Mrs. Lupone: “Luke Perry from Beverly Hills 90210. I loved him!”

KL: Tell us about the biggest trend in your day.Mrs. Teal: “Probably scrunchies in your hair. Big sweaters with leggings and the teased bangs with tons of hairspray.”

KL: What was your favorite moment of being 17?Mrs. Dipilato: Graduating from high school

KL: What is your best memory memory of high school?Mr. MacLeod: Getting my own car.

Mrs. Tracy Hall, pictured bototm left in her cap and gown, at her senior graduation.

freeway, I stared at the trees beside the road. They were tall, beauti-ful, and free, just like the American students in my eyes. I hope someday I can be a part of you instead of sitting in the corner like a quiet doll, to grow up under the blue sky. But I still have a long way to go. There are a lot of dif-ferences between the U.S. and China. In my opin-ion, differences are just differences, they are not troubles, but we should find joy from them. What’s more, they are a short cut to know a differ-ent culture. At the begin-ning of a new life, I hope every exchange student can have an unforgettable school year.

cont. from A6

In my own words

Page B6

October 22, 2010

October 22, 2010

Knight Life wish-es everyone a safe and happy

2010 Halloween!