News: Choir students take performances to the state level of competition. PAGe 2

Volume 21, Issue 5

Holt HIGH scHool

FEBRUARY 2013ramparts

News: Students talk about women being allowed to fight in combat.PAGe 5

Junior Genesis Powell and senior Mallory Chrisman make announcements during the Prom Fashion Show on February 7.

Photo by Stacie Skinker

Hot sPot: Students share out the play list of their life.PAGe 12

Holt senior High school5885 west Holt Rd.Holt, mI 48842

sPoRts: Football players get community service award for their hard work.PAGe 14

FeAtuRe: Jazz band gets into the swing of things.PAGe 8

Fashion ForwardStudents model hot prom fashion designs page 3

News2coNFeReNces

Parent conferences will take place Wednesday, March 12 from 5:30-8 p.m. and Thursday, March 13 from 12:30-3 in the commons.

BAND FestIVAlBand Festival will take place on

March 1. The HHS bands and bands from surrounding schools will be judged on the music that they present. Band festival will be held at Okemos High School. The HHS bands will be performing at 1 p.m. and 4 p.m.

Act/mme mAKe uPJuniors who miss the original

date of the ACT/MME will have the chance to make up the test on March 20 and 21. For information visit the Guidance Office. Wednes-day, March 20 will be a half day with school ending at 11:10.

eDPAll students in grades 9-12 will

be updating their Educational Development Plans during the next month in their second hour. EDPs are due by March 18. See your second hour teacher or counselor if you have any questions.

APPlIcAtIoNsIf you plan on taking an Advanced

Placement class, honors class, or Journalism, you may be required to submit an application. The type of application varies depending on the class, as does the due date for the application. For more informa-tion, talk to the teacher of the class you plan on taking, or get an ap-plication from the stairwell of the main stairs leading to east hall.

INteRNAtIoNAl cluBThe International Club is looking

for new members. The club meets every Wednesday after school from 2:35 - 3 p.m. in E124. The purpose of the club is to help international students meet American students and make connections.

BAND-AIDThe big band fundraiser, Band-

Aid, will be held on March 21. The fundraiser will consist of an $8 spa-ghetti dinner, silent auction, and concert performance by the band students. The concert will include all band members from grades 7-12. All funds will help towards purchasing instruments, and other band equipment.

FEBRUARY 2013 Holt HigH ScHool RAmpARtS

F.Y.I. six students head to state Honors choir

local contest features students’ scriptsTwo students make it to semifinals of writing competitionABRiEl coUSinEAU

staff writer

Singing is something everybody enjoys, but some people are so amazing they have decided to make something of their voices. Six students from HHS auditioned and made it into the State Honors Choir. The six students are sophomores Austin Frank, Karena Lewis and Abigail McKay, juniors Emily Haddick and Adam Parry, and senior Colin McCarthy.

This is the first time HHS has ever had six students make it all the way to the State Honors Choir. The next highest number of students Holt has had make it all the way through was five a few years ago. This is a new record that they are hoping will continue into next year.

“I am so proud of them because they’re so young and so passionate about singing and they’re really good for their ages,” Vocal Music Director Monty Bishop said.

These students had to stand in front of one judge on December 1 and sing a measure of a song. That one judge graded everybody on a scale of 1 to 100. The top 100 students are in the state choir.

“There’s a lot of different ways to express yourself through music,” sophomore Abigail McKay said.

Choir gives students a lot of skills that students can’t get in every high school class, for example, confidence. Confidence is key in choir. To be able to sing in front of a crowd is hard for many people, but the students who made it through to the State Honors Choir were confident in themselves and their voices to get them where they are.

“Choir helps me boost my self-esteem and it helped me be less timid and more comfortable to sing in front of people,” Parry said.

Fame is another thing all six students are hoping will come next after making it to state level choir.

“I hopefully will be a singer,” Lewis said.All these students are hoping to gain some

kind of recognition through their hard work and for being the few people out of HHS to make it to State Honors Choir.

“I’m going to start singing in clubs, then theaters, arenas, stadiums, then one day the Super Bowl halftime show,” Parry said.

The director who will be teaching them is Z. Randall Stroope. Stroope has conducted 37 All

State Choirs. He has also won many awards for his talents.

The six students will be going to stay at Western Michigan University in the dorms for three days in May. On May 11 they will be doing their big performance with the whole All State Choir also at Western at 4 p.m.

While many students probably consider writing to be a chore, there is a select group out there who do enjoy writing and some who are even confident enough to submit their work into contests. Among these rare commodities are juniors Connor Butch and Jacob Vaive, the students who entered the Young Playwrights Festival.

The Young Playwrights Festival is a competition for Michigan high school students. Those who enter their script get the chance to have them be produced and then performed by MSU theater students. The competition is hosted by MSU Federal Credit Union Institute for Arts and Creativity at the Wharton Center and also by the MSU Department of Theatre.

Although the scripts started out as just another assignment for her Honors English 11 students, English teacher Anne Russo presented her students with the opportunity to submit their one-act scripts into this annual competition.

While many students entered, Butch and Vaive are lucky enough to have made it to the semifinals. Fifty students from schools around the

area entered into the competition this year, and they were among the 12 that were selected to be in the semifinals.

“Their plays could be no more than 13 pages long, but besides that they pretty much had freedom to write about whatever subject they wanted. Their play didn’t have to be school related,” Russo said.

Both Butch’s and Vaive’s skits are comedies. Butch’s is a spoof on the movie “The Avengers”, and Vaive’s is about a guy who can’t stop dancing at school.

“I entered my script into the competition

because my English teacher gave our class the opportunity to and also because you can win money,” Butch said.

The 12 students who have advanced to the semifinals get the chance to work side-by-side with a Department of Theatre faculty mentor to revise their scripts for a second reading. They also all receive $100 as a prize for making it this far in the competition.

After their plays have been revised, the top six finalists are chosen. Those students then get the opportunity to have their plays be produced and eventually performed at the Wharton Center. The finalists, whose plays will be produced, are paired with a mentor from a professional theater organization as well.

“Mentors are directors or playwrights from Michigan and around the Mid-West who are currently working in the professional theater and have had experience working with young people,” said Laurie Briseno, Education Coordinator for MSU Federal Credit Union Institute for Arts & Creativity at the Wharton Center.

The students will work with their mentors for weeks, learning about the art of playwriting and finalizing their scripts along the way. And finally when performance weekend comes, the students get to see their play be performed. Afterwards, a time is provided for them to meet with their mentors and reflect on their work.

The finalists’ plays will be performed on Sunday, May 12 at 1:30 p.m. at the Pasant Theatre, Wharton Center for Performing Arts. The performance is open and free to the public.

The choir class practices every day. Juniors Adam Parry and Emily Hadick are two students who were chosen for the State Honors Choir.

Photo by Nadia Gedeon

Juniors Connor Butch (left) and Jacob Vaive both made it into the semifinals of the Young Playwrights Festival.

Photo by Abriel Cousineau

State Honors Choir brings students to Western UniversitynAdiA gEdEon

staff writer

NewsHolt HigH ScHool RAmpARtS

3FEBRUARY 2013

QuIZ Bowl mARcH mADNess The Quiz Bowl team will compete at Michigan State University on Saturday, March 16 in the second annual March Madness Invitational Tournament. Quiz Bowl is an academic competition where teams of four race against other schools to hit the buzzer and answer trivia-based questions. The invitational is a pool play of 24 teams from schools around the state. Math teacher and Quiz Bowl adviser Dave Hildebrandt expressed his goals for his team.

“(I hope) to make it to the top half, or top 12, since two of the best teams in the country are from Michi-gan, so it’d be an accomplishment to just make it that far,” Hildebrandt said.

teeNs AGAINst toBAcco use Students strive to combat the use of tobacco through the club Teens Against Tobacco Use (TATU). Twenty-five to 30 sophomores, juniors and seniors give weekly lessons to elementary and middle school classes throughout the district on tobacco and peer resistance, and the goal is to give fourth and fifth graders a role model closer to their age that advises them on the harms and effects of tobacco. Students participating in becoming a role model for these kids are either recommended by teachers, or can speak to health teacher Elizabeth Graf in room E124 if interested. She looks at students’ character, attendance, discipline and grades when evaluating if they would do well in TATU.

“When they walk into those classrooms they are like rock stars to those children since they’re the ‘big high schoolers’ so it’s important that the right students are being looked up at,” Graf said.

DANce teAm PeRFoRmANce

The dance team will be attending a competition on February 23 in which they will compete against other local dance teams. The team will be performing their jazz and guy/girl dance, as well as their pom routine. “We’re really trying to pull a first this year because we’ve been working really hard at it,” sophomore Erica Zurek said.

In Brief Students strut prom dress fashions for 2013

Band members take solo and ensemble by storm

Believe it or not, Prom is just around the corner. With a little over two and a half months left, local stores and businesses are preparing for the season.

On Thursday, February 9 the Prom Committee led by art teacher Patti Pisano hosted a fashion show in the Margaret Livensparger Theater. Students modeled dresses and tuxedos from area stores to raise money for this year’s upcoming Prom.

The Prom Fashion Show first started 14 years ago but is only held every four or five years. On average, Pisano has been able to raise around $2,500 from prom and graduation-related businesses.

“The point is to keep Prom tickets under $30, which is the lowest in the area,” Pisano said. “We also wanted to get the school more connected

with the community.”The show was sponsored by

David’s Bridal, who provided the dresses, and the Men’s Wearhouse w h o p r o v i d e d t h e t u x e d o s . Each model displayed multiple ensembles.

“We all had to try on a few dresses, and they helped us figure out the best fits,” junior Alicia Dawdy said.

The models had to meet certain re q u i re m e n t s t o p a r t i c i p a t e. Although stores initially wanted the girls to be 5’7” because they could not make alterations, Pisano allowed a minimum height of 5’4” due to the lack of height in many of the girls at HHS.

Practices were held twice a week up until a week before the show, when practices were held every day.

“You had to be dedicated,” Dawdy said. “I thought it would be fun, and I was asked to join, so I did.”

The fashion show incorporated a segment of once-worn gowns. Modeled dresses could be tried on and bought for $50 after the show.

Also included was a guitar duo, a performance by the Step Team and a free expo in the commons for venders to promote their businesses.

Real Estate One attended their second expo here at HHS.

“We think it ’s a really good opportunity to meet parents of students in the Holt area and to support the Holt School District,” realtor Denise Dutter said.

Te n t b u s i n e s s e s , b a k i n g businesses, photography businesses and more were also present.

Many people attended and were able to enjoy all of the various festivities.

“I really just loved when the guys came out and did their little thing and really showed their swagger,” senior Kori Ramirez said. “They looked awesome in their tuxedos; it hyped up the crowd and made the show exciting.”

Prom committee hosts expo to raise funds

StAciE SkinkER

staff writer

Students featured in the Prom Fashion Show dance on stage in their dresses and tuxedos on February 9. Joining them is security guard Bruce Duling.

Weeks of preparation, multiple after school practices and a love for music. Those are just a few things that make up the 45 band members who attended Solo & Ensemble on Saturday, February 9 at Haslett High School. It was a one-day event that lasted the entire day with many different students performing.

Over 80,000 instrumental students audition every year hoping to be awarded a superior.

Those who performed were rated on a scale of one to five, one being the best and five being the worst. If someone got a one or “superior,” they qualified for the state Solo and Ensemble. Band members from grades 9 to 12 who attended had to perform proficiency exams in scales and sight reading. Sight reading is playing a piece of music without having seen it before.

There were many different groups that went consisting of duets, trios, and quartets. One

group was the Crimson Clarinet Choir, consisting of seniors Emily Danks Evan Edwards, Sarah Southwell, and Paul Guilfoyle, juniors Jacob Vaive, Ciara Sherran, Zach Hill, and Katie Harmer and sophomore Emma Carlson.

“We did really well. We scored the highest ranking (Division 1). Our performance turned out well, but we are determined to work to become better,” Danks said.

Danks commented that last year they got disqualified because they did not fully understand the rules.

“It’s a redemption,” Danks said. This year they hoped to do better and most got

an excellent score.“The vast majority got a first division rating or

a second division rating,” Band Director Mike Emerson said.

It’s a bittersweet time for Danks knowing that it is her senior year and last time to perform in the Solo and Ensemble competition.

“I am sad that this is my last year in Symphonic Band and participating in our group, the Crimson Clarinet Choir, but being around great people has made my experience worthwhile. This accomplishment/redemption has been the cherry on top. I am thankful to be a part of a group of talented musicians,” Danks said.

If you are in the band and thinking about doing

Solo and Ensemble, Emerson has a few words of advice.

“You’ll never know until you try. At least make sure to do an ensemble because then you’ll go through it with friends. It’s a wonderful experience,” Emerson said.

Band members audition to go to State Solo and EnsemblecodY WoRdEn

staff writer

Photo by Zack Gilliland

Senior Evan Edwards plays his clarinet in band class. He was part of the Crimson Clarinet Choir.

Photo by Stacoe Skinker

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NewsHolt HigH ScHool RAmpARtSFEBRUARY 2013

4Exhibit shines spotlight on student artMSUFCU holds sixth annual art contest for 15 area schoolsSEAn BUlkoWSki

staff writer

Seven students placed their art alongside students from 14 other schools through the month of February in East Lansing for the sixth annual Michigan State Federal Credit Union (MSUFCU) Student Art Exhibit.

Paintings, sketches, 3D pieces, photography and other art was on public display for viewing at MSUFCU headquarters from February 1 until February 24, in which voting for favorite pieces was encouraged either online or at the exhibit.

“I was excited to just hear peoples’ feedback on my piece,” senior Deserae Potter said. “It was interesting to hear peoples’ ways I could improve or change my art and to see how they perceived what my piece means.”

Public voting determined the winner of both the People’s Choice Award and the School Spirit Award that is given to the school that collects the most votes. A panel of judges decided the Juried-Award winners along with honorable mentions. A gift-card of $300 is awarded to the first place artist, $200 to the second and $100 to the third place artist.

“I’m not really concerned with whether or not I win. I’m just glad that my art got selected to be in the competition,” sophomore Mira Sullivan said.

Each of the 15 schools had the opportunity to submit 10 of their most creative and technically-skilled pieces to show off their talent and art programs. Art instructors Heidi Irvine, Brooke Pfeiffer and Patti Pisano each chose a few of the artists to participate in the exhibit.

“This show is very competitive and picky about quality and technical ability,” Irvine said. “Obviously, we want to be successful, so we looked for art pieces that matched both aspects.”

Artists selected included sophomores Celene Rodriguez and Mira Sullivan, juniors Kamine Nick-Hodges, Alexandra Kershner and Liwei Deng and seniors Samantha Loomis and Deserae Potter.

Many different things went into creating the actual art piece that teachers found worthy of the exhibit, whether that is self-inspiration or a required concept for class. Nick-Hodges found a way to express his interests on an instructed drawing to come up with what he now calls “Masked Fantasy”.

“We had to make a piece using different textures, and I’ve always had a thing for fantasy, so I tried to combine both aspects into the final drawing that it is now,” Nick-Hodges said.

Award winners were pending at time of print.

Illustrations by Deserae Potter, Samantha Loomis and Kamine Nick-Hodges

Several students were selected to be featured in the sixth annual MSUFCU Student Art Exhibit, including junior Kamine Nick-Hodges (below) and seniors Deserae Potter and Samantha Loomis (left). These artists were among 150 others from 15 area schools.

News 5Holt HigH ScHool RAmpARtS FEBRUARY 2013

Private second class Autumn Ladines, left, specialist Rebecca Hill, center, and private first class Kristan Beard learn urban assault tactics training at Fort Jackson in Columbia, South Carolina, January 30, 2013. Women are to be trained at the same intensity as men and must pass the test to be admitted into combat.

Photo by C. Michael Bergen/The State/MCT

The US military officially dropped its ban on women serving in front line combat on January 24, after a policy review by top commanders.

“Dropping the ban means more people in combat. There’s nothing different, just another person fighting,” senior Rebecca Howe said.

The Pentagon’s decision to allow women to actively participate in combat has caused much controversy from both men and women.

“Women can’t be airborne and cannot pilot certain planes, but now they can walk around armed and can actually go on missions,” Howe said.

Not all women are physically capable of certain assignments, neither are all men. Now, those women who are capable and willing will have the opportunity to fill those assignments.

“The new policy is exciting for me since I’ve been wanting a combat job. I don’t want a desk job,” junior Jessica Tarrant said.

Under the new law, restrictions for women in a particular branch of the military are still in existence. Requests for an exception are possible as long as the female can provide reasoning to why women should not be allowed in that branch.

“Women like being able to fight. Some don’t want to be

put in combat, it is a personal preference,” Tarrant said. Opposition to women in combat revolves around

concern with women’s strength and potential harm to unit cohesion.

“It could be awkward to work with women, for men. I could see where women could become a distraction,” junior Olivia Shook said.

The military is allowed to make exceptions, both for women in infantry, which is uncommon and for their roles in combat that are less often filled with females.

“Other reasons lawmakers say they were hesitant, and are still not sending women on missions, is the fear of women captivity and the possibility of rape,” Howe said.

Ignoring the controversies, some women dedicate their future to the U.S. military, and are honored to be a part of combat.

“My mom and dad are proud of my desire to serve. Serving the country is a family thing, and now it is my turn to make a contribution for the better,” Howe said.

Many women are in families that have served in the military, and will be the first in their family to be allowed in battle.

“My family is very supportive of my decision to become a U.S.

Sea Cadet,” Tarrant said. Though women aren’t allowed in infantry (close

combat) they are joining the forces in an entirely new way. Combat allows women to be on the tanks and puts weapons under their control.

“I have family members in the air force who influenced my decision to join the military. I did not want to be in communications, so I am really happy that I get to be a woman in combat,” Shook said.

I have this feeling inside that fighting for my country is what I need to do.--senior Rebecca Howe

“”

New role for women in warWomen are fighting in combat for the first timeRAcHEl dilingHAm

staff writer

“A crocodile and human mix, so it can eat people’s faces off. I will call it The Choppin.”

Viewpoints 7

Corrections

Speak up

Being boring: Having an empty bracket for the NCAA tournament.

Being psychic:Getting your brackets ready for March Madness and predicting the NCAA Winner.

Holt HigH ScHool RAmpARtS FEBRUARY 2013

Hot or not?

If you were to combine two animals for a pet what would you combine? what would you call it?

“Pterodactyl and walrus. I figured a pterodactyl’s wings are the only wings that can hold a walrus. I

will call it flying Walrus.”Henry Pacheco, senior

mitch Bailhe, junior

“A lion and a house cat, so you can keep it as a pet. I would name the species

Purrocious.”morgan Neeb, junior

Kayla ovenhouse, sophomore

“A horse and a bird with big wings. It will be called Pegasus, like in Hercules.”

“I would combine my two favorite animals, a giraffe and zebra. I will call it Ziraffe.”

Frances Johnson, junior

In the January issue of Ramparts, senior Katherine Patterson was misquoted in the entertainment section. The following sports records were also inaccurate: swimming, hockey and wrestling. If you are aware of any errors of fact in our reporting please contact us in room E221 or send an e-mail to ramparts@hpsk12.net.Cartoon by Bryce Zippi

To post, or not to post?

letters flash across the screen, launching an attack of rumors and insults. A text, a Facebook

wall post, a tweet, a line or two is all it takes to wound someone’s self-esteem, to bring someone to tears or to ruin a friendship. The post may mean nothing to the person posting it, but to the person receiving the hurtful words, it may be the last straw for them.

With the explosion of modern technology, old-school bullying is out and a new type of bullying is taking the stage.

Stuffing someone in a locker is a quite obvious sign of bullying. With no bruises or bloody noses as proof of bullying, cyber-bullying often goes undetected until it may be too late.

Cyber-bullying is growing, and 50 percent of American teens said they have experienced c yber-bullying, according to c yber-bullying-facts.com. Suicide rates of teens are increasing as well.

Stu d i e s f ro m t h e A m e r i ca n

Academy of Pediatrics show that the main cause of teenage suicides is solely bullying, both online and offline.

Since cyber-bullying doesn’t leave much evidence as physical bullying does, it is more common. People hide behind a façade, giving them the ability to say what they want to say without someone knowing it is them.

If one doesn’t do it anonymously, they do it online rather than in person because it is not face to face, and easier to say the hurtful words.

Either way, the bullying is having a g u t -wrenching e f f e c t o n the victim.

T h e b u l l y i n g c a n b e a s s i m p l e a s a f e w n e g a t i v e posts online about that person. The next thing you know, rumors are being spread throughout the school about them. It soon becomes too much for them to take, to the point where they feel it is necessary to take their own life.

What is posted online is out there for everyone to see. Once something is posted online it doesn’t go away. If someone were to be bullied in the halls, only the people who were around at that time would see it. Online, everyone can look it up, which makes it worse for the victim and, sickly, more rewarding for the perpetrator.

It needs to be stopped. If you’re upset do not express yourself on the Internet. When in rage online, more are likely to post hurtful things online without thinking before they put it out there for everyone to see.

If you feel like you need to get your feelings out, write them on paper, not on the keyboard. Step away from the computer or set down the phone and relax.

Just as we were all taught in elementar y school, i f you see bullying, tell someone. That’s not saying that if you see drama online

y o u s h o u l d b u t t i n a n d get involved w i t h i t , b u t m a y b e j u s t t r y t a l k i n g to the bully and tell them you think it’s wrong. It may

be easier said than done. However, if you see someone

being bullied, and you choose to ignore it, if something were to happen to the victim and you didn’t say anything to try and stop it, how would you feel?

Do everything you can just to try and help. Don’t just sit back and watch it go on thinking someone else will take care of it. If we all were to think that, no one would take care of it.

The next time you see cyber-bullying, do something. You never know what your input could do. It could save a life.

Old school bullying is out and a new type of bullying is taking

the stage.

“ ”

Bullying rates grow, suicide rates follow

Kylee Voorhis

Editorial Policy: Ramparts is published by the Journalism class of Holt High School. The newspaper serves the students and staff of Holt High School and as a connec-tion to the Holt-Dimondale community. The objective of Ramparts is to publish a factual, informative and entertaining newspaper, and to provide a forum for the expression of diverse viewpoints. The opinions and views expressed do not necessarily represent the views of the administration, the adviser, or all Ramparts staff members. The editors reserve the right to reject any material that is libelous, obscene, or poses an immediate and material disruption to the educational environment. Ramparts prints letters to the editor and guest editorials as space allows. Letters must be typed, less than 200 words in length and signed. The editorial staff reserves the right to edit for length. Ramparts will not print letters that are obscene, libelous or that target an individual. Advertisements that are obscene, misleading, or illegal to minors will not be printed. Ramparts reserves the right to reject any advertisement. To place an ad, contact the adviser or the Ramparts staff at (517) 694-2162.

Some material courtesy of American Society of Newspaper Editors/MCT Campus High School Newspaper Service.

6 ViewpointsOur View

Holt HigH ScHool RAmpARtSFEBRUARY 2013

women in active combat is right move

ramparts

Middle College is a worryDear Editor,

I have been hearing about the new proposal about seniors going to the ninth grade campus. There is a lot of concern about this due to scheduling with all our electives and options.

I know this won’t have anything to do with me, but people are asking me questions like I know what’s going on. I have heard m a n y r e a s o n s w h y : m o n e y budget, incoming freshman class being too big, etc.

Well, with the class being too big, moving the seniors over there will only be a temporary thing. The freshman will eventually be

seniors and will have going to go back to this “middle” college.

Another concern is moving our electives. The reason the freshmen don’t come over here and are l imited to classes is because it is too dangerous to be having a few hundred kids cross Holt Road.

You can’t bring our pool, choir, computers, weight room, or track over there, so seniors would be over here anyways or they would lose their freedom of classes. I am unsure of how this will go, hopefully good!

Emili Clark, senior

Holt High School is greatDear Editor,

Holt Senior High School is the

fourth high school I’ve been to. I’m a senior this year, and let me tell you; this school is the only school that is so free.

This school gives opportunities to underprivileged students, i t h e l p s p e o p l e u n d e r s t a n d each other, and I never s ee discrimination in the halls. In this school, it’s like everyone makes an effort to be “one.”

If I could have chosen not to move as much as I have and chose one school to attend, it’d be Holt.

T h i s s c h o o l i s b y f a r t h e best school with academics, extracurricular activities, dances, non-discrimination, clubs, and yes, of course, sports!

Marissa McCrumb, senior

editors in chief:

managing editors:News:

Opinion:Features:Hot Spot:

Sports:

Staff Writers:

Adviser:

Zahra AhmadZack Gilliland

Kayla LovelyHannah MarshMaya FewsCody WordenNoah Goldblatt

Sean Bulkowski, Abby Cousineau, Rachel Dillingham, Nadia Gedeon, Sydney Holmes, Courtney Houser, Anissa Martinez, Stacie Skinker, Kylee Voorhis, Bryce Zippi

Amy Clark

Where is your water from?

when we think of water, we often think of something that is endless. It isn’t something

we worry about or take time to wonder how we’re provided clean water. However, if we did take the time to think about where our fresh water came, from we’d realize that our fresh water is limited.

According the book “Blue Gold” written by Maude Barlow and Tony Clarke, though water covers about 70 percent of the world, about two percent is fresh water, and 1.6 percent of that fresh water is locked up in polar ice caps and glaciers. That means only .4 percent of the fresh water in the world is available to us. Doesn’t seem like an endless supply now does it?

We all need to realize that we can’t afford to allow this resource to go to waste. Without water, humanity cannot exist. Even with this, we still think water is always around us. Water is, but that’s because we live in the United States. It’s time we realize how fresh water is so sacred in other parts of the world.

What most people don’t know is that water is an economic good. This means companies are allowed

to privatize water, and it is able to be sold and traded. This can come off as something that is really odd. Also according to “Blue Gold”, water being traded isn’t something we’ve grown to know about. However, it’s the truth. Major companies like Suez-ONDEO, Vivendi-Veolia of France and RWE-Thames Water of Germany own most fresh water sources around the world. These companies often bail out countries in debt and allow the country to pay them back by letting the company privatize their water. When a

company privatizes a country’s fresh water source, all the fresh water used by the people is charged in form of a bill, or water meter.

This occurs mostly in third world countries. These countries are mostly found in South West Asia, Africa and South America. When this does occur, the people in these countries are so poor they cannot afford fresh water. How much water they use is based on a machine called a water meter. This meter measures the amount of water used and charges that person by the drop. Since people can’t afford this water, they go to disease-infested waters and drink from there instead. In most parts of Brazil, water is expensive. Farmers tried to collect rainwater to water their plants. These farmers live off of what they plant, but they were unable to use the rainwater they collected because the company that

privatized their fresh water source claimed that the rainwater was their property as well.

It’s crazy to think that water is unavailable for us, and we often think well it’s not happening to us, so it doesn’t matter. However, most major cities in the United States have privatized their fresh water supplies. Now the Great Lakes are even getting looked at as a possible purchase for their fresh water. This would mean higher prices on fresh water.

The water crisis is bigger than we know of now. Water wars have occurred multiple times through history, and as we all know, history repeats itself. If this issue isn’t taken care of, or we refuse to ignore what’s happening around us, the future is unclear. The amount of fresh water is running out and we need to learn how to conserve it. Massive agriculture is one of the biggest wastes of water consumption. Instead, we should turn to hydroponics. This is a process where the plant is watered by drops directly given to the plant’s roots. This saves massive amounts of water. Also, big concrete dams make it impossible for water to reach rivers and streams, instead water is directly dumped into the sea where it’s of no use to us. Instead, we should build dams made of sticks that redirect water to our rivers and streams.

The best thing to do in this situation is to educate ourselves on the issue of privatizing water. Learn where our water comes from, if it is privatized along with the major issues that come with privatizing water. We need to know what issues will occur in our lifetime, and this may be the biggest one.

t his year, the U.S military will take a huge step forward in terms of combat equality, allowing women to participate in active combat for the first time. This is one of the most progressive

moves that the U.S. military has ever made, and the second under President Barack Obama, after he repealed the controversial Don’t Ask Don’t Tell act instituted under President Bill Clinton in 1993. As Obama is in his second term, and is not seeking reelection, more moves like this may follow in the next four years.

We at Ramparts believe this is a good decision because this plan has garnered praise for bringing equality to female soldiers. It also has been praised for giving all soldiers an even ground in terms of active combat. It is a plan that will help gender equality, and can also provide for a better atmosphere for soldiers overseas, with a more normalized community feeling. It will lead to happier soldiers, and hopefully cut into the rising rate of suicide and depression among active duty soldiers and veterans of war.

Critics of this plan register complaints that women still aren’t ready for active combat, and with an ever-rising rate of sexual assault on female soldiers in the military, this is not an appropriate time to pass laws leading to more female soldiers. Even as more female soldiers join the military, and the military tries to address these issues, the rate of sexual assault rises. Critics say that this new law will lead to only lead to more issues with sexual assault and harassment of women in the military. This might push some female students away from military careers.

Despite those fears, this is a good move for the U.S. military, and a step in the right direction. This is the 21st Century, and women shouldn’t be held back for jobs that they are qualified for. It’s a time of equality, and this decision reflects that. Female soldiers should be afforded all the same rights that male soldiers are, if they have the same qualifications, and the same ability to perform the job of an active combat soldier.

Without water, humanity cannot

exist.“

”

We cannot allow our water to be privatized

Your View

8FEBRUARY 2013 Holt HigH ScHool RAmpARtS

FeaturesTwo Cents

Hannah marsh

Profanity on the rise

Band students twist and shout

kYlEE VooRHiS

staff writer

eliminate stress and live betterEasy ways for students to reduce stressSYdnEY HolmES

staff writer

Stress is a part of everyone’s lives. Between school, sports and work it’s no wonder students feel their stress levels rising, but don’t let it beat you. It’s important to manage this stress because too much can begin to take a toll on your body.

Stress isn’t always bad. It can motivate you to do your best and help you perform under pressure, but when you’re constantly running in overdrive, your mind and body pay the price. Things like headaches, high blood pressure and problems sleeping are all results of too much stress.

For many people, excessive stress is something they’re used to, and it’s become a way of life. However, it doesn’t have to be. While there is no way to completely eliminate stress, plenty of things exist that you can do to help reduce it.

At 6:30 in the morning, dark and early, band director Mike Emerson and band students prepare to get groovy. Every Tuesday and Thursday, students drag in their tired bodies and are soon awakened by their own jazzy sound.

About 25 years ago, the band director at that time started a jazz band at the high school in an effort to give students the opportunity to open their eyes to a different kind of music, since in the band class offered as a class doesn’t focus on jazz music. Also, not many students are familiar with jazz music.

“It’s a great way to get involved in music,” sophomore Mark Danks said.

Not only does it introduce students

to a new kind of music, it also serves as a community outreach program, giving students the opportunity to perform throughout the community at different events. The students’ jazz music will be played at the Community Recognition Dinner in March, and they often play at special dinners in the commons.

“The main purpose of jazz band is to give a jazz experience to interested students,” Emerson said.

It is not required that a student that is a part of the jazz band is in the band class. Any student who is skilled in playing a jazz instrument and who is ready to play, is welcome.

“If anyone who can play an instrument and has a passion for music, then why not join? It brings your mood up,” senior Dessa Hiither said. “It’s a whole different music genre that not many are familiar with. It gives a different outlook.”

Students already enrolled in the band class can try out their skills on a different instrument. If a band student is part of the jazz band, they can choose to play another

instrument they are familiar with. To join the jazz band no audition is necessary.

“I love playing the trumpet, and I wanted to explore different fields of music,” junior Dominic Mosher said. “If you enjoy jazz, it’s a great way to get out of the concert mind-set and

play different kinds of music.”For students in love with music

and who love to express themselves through music, the jazz band is another way to get involved with the school, community and music in general.

Sophomore Jordan Lange plays a saxophone solo during jazz band practice. Band members practice Tuesday and Thursday mornings in the band room.

Photo by Zack Gilliland

Slow down. Juggling school, sports and friends can be a lot to handle. With so much going on, you may forget to take time for yourself. A good way to reduce stress is to take a moment away from the problem and just relax. “What I usually do is take a 15-minute break and do some deep breathing exercises,” junior Adam Parry said.

Stay organized. When you have a lot of homework and due dates, the thought of getting anything done can be a bit overwhelming. Experts at Health Magazine say a great way to make it easier on yourself is to get organized. Make a list of what needs to get done, and put the most important things at the top. “When you have a lot to get done it helps to piece it up a bit. Take it a step at a time,” sophomore Jessica Sweet said.

Exercise. Scientists have found that stress produces chemicals that make you feel tense and on edge. Exercising helps move those chemicals out of your body, making you feel more calm and relaxed. Plus, it takes your mind off the problem. “When I’m stressed I like to go for runs or take my dog for a walk, just do anything outdoors,” sophomore Aaron Centofanti said.

Get plenty of sleep. According to the National Sleep Foundation, sleep is like “food for your brain,” and it is incredibly important, especially for teenagers. When you’re practically running on E and you have a lot to do, stress is almost inevitable. A great way to get plenty of sleep is by keeping your sleep on a schedule. Go to sleep and get up at the same time every day.

Do something you love. Sometimes all your body needs is a break from the problem. A great way to take your mind off all the stresses in your life is to do something you love. “When I feel stressed, I usually listen to music or take a break and play guitar. It’s nice to take breaks between my school stuff,” junior Gala Lange said.

SCHOOL

FRIENDS

WORK

FAMILY

SPORTS

OTHER

10 20 30 40 50 60

60%

4%

2%

21%

5%

8%

Students’ source of stress

lately I’ve noticed a lot of profanity littering the halls at our school.

Re m e mb e r w h e n w e w e re i n elementary school? Remember when saying ‘heck’ seemed like you were doing something wrong? Now we include profanity in our everyday conversations. Happy? Swear. Mad? Swear. Confused? Swear. We swear all the time. What’s changed?

I think that television has a lot to do with our behavior. The media. Listening to offensive music or watching a raunchy show can desensitize you to the things they’re saying. At first you might feel a little risky talking like the way those people are talking, but before long you won’t even notice the words as they come out of your mouth.

Entertainment has changed over the years. Rihanna went from ‘Pon De Replay’ to ‘S&M’ and Miley Cyrus went from ‘Hannah Montana/girl-next-door’ to edgy actress with a buzz cut. It’s changing, it’s modernizing. No one wants sweet and innocent, we want edgy and cool. The world of entertainment is changing.

If the media was more appropriate, if it was something we could watch with our grandparents without feeling awkward, the amount of inappropriate language and offensive terms would decrease. If swearing and sex weren’t thrown into our faces every time we switched on the radio or flipped the channel, then we wouldn’t revolve our world around it.

The simplest solution to this problem is to stop talking the way we’re talking. You can express anger without dropping the ‘F-bomb’ three times. You can let people know you’re really happy without swearing. In order for this to stop, we need to stop it. If we don’t, the cycle of profanity is going to continue.

I’ve heard kids younger than me saying some really, really inappropriate things. It seems so weird to me, so foreign, I wouldn’t have talked like that when I was younger. But then again, the cooler, older kids around me weren’t talking like that when I was with them. That’s why we need to stop. We need to protect generations below us from the disrespectful behavior we’re passing along to them.

Ramparts surveyed students about what causes them the most stress.

Source: Ramparts survey of 85 students

Jazz band gives students new outlook

Features 9Holt HigH ScHool RAmpARtS FEBRUARY 2013

tips for a successful ACTStudents and staff suggest test strategiesBRYcE Zippi

staff writer

Photo by Bryce ZippiJunior Mackenzie Dudek prepares herself by reading “Cracking the ACT,” a prep book, just in time for the big test. The ACT will be held on March 5.

Don’t fear, it’s only a test. It’s that time of year again as juniors prepare themselves for the ACT. The ACT is on March 5 with a full day of school for juniors. The MME is on March 6 and 7 with the test in the morning, followed by a half day Wednesday schedule. The ACT/MME will feature math, reading and writing portions, and also science.

As the dates get closer, juniors such as Jenna King are preparing themselves with practice tests and books.

The ACT features quite a bit of reading as well as writing. That’s why it’s a good thing to start preparing.

“Download free ACT apps to get prep-like questions and do study sessions,” family and consumer science’s teacher Kellie Sweitzer said.

If you prepare yourself by using apps or study sessions, as Switzer said, you will know what to expect and you won’t be so worried about it.

According to actstudent.org, one tip for doing well on the ACT is to read books about the test so that you get a better understanding of what the test will be asking you. Also, take practice tests.

Senior Micah Norwood prepared himself by taking practice tests. Norwood scored a 30 on the ACT. His advice to juniors is to not worry and to take it as if it were any high school test.

“If you don’t do well, you can always retake it,” Norwood said.

According to actstudent.org, studies show that students are more likely to increase their ACT score by retaking it. Students can retake the ACT as many times as they want.

The price to retake the ACT is $50.50 with the writing. If you decide not to do the writing portion, the price will be $35.

It may be a lot of work for the students, but from a teacher’s perspective, it definitely is a lot of work getting their students in line. The teachers themselves have to prepare as well.

“We do ACT intensive prep. The

sophomores learn how to write persuasive essays and their grammar instruction strengthens,” English teacher Michelle Fulton said.

Teachers started preparing their students for the ACT last year by practicing the writing portion and essays. It is never too early to start, especially since some students have a hard time with either reading or writing.

For senior Abby Maynard, the hardest part of the ACT was the reading. Maynard prepared herself by reading textbooks, working online and taking four practice tests.

“I needed to work on my timing, l i k e s p e e d re a d i n g a n d t i m e management,” Maynard said.

Maynard’s advice to the juniors is to practice and to know what to expect.

“Take a few practice exams online. Practice relaxation techniques on the day of the test to help reduce anxiety,” counselor Rebecca Fredrigo said.

According to actstudent.org, the best way to be prepared for the ACT is to start the day off by eating a nutritious breakfast after a good night’s rest. The next thing to do is to walk into the school feeling confident and prepared by bringing a #2 pencil.

While taking the ACT, take your time and review your answers. Make sure you are confident with your answer. If you do not know a question, do not skip it, just take a guess.

“If you run out of time, just bubble. Don’t leave any question blank,” English teacher Christine Fisher said.

The worst thing you can do while taking the ACT is rush through it. Students often think that it’s a competition to see who can get done first. But let’s face it, this is no ordinary

test. This test may determine where you go to school, if you decide to go to college.

“Eliminate wrong answers and read all the choices,” student advocacy teacher Ryan Anderson said.

S t u d e n t s w i l l c o m e a c ro s s questions they may not know, and that’s okay. Just take a guess. As long as you are confident with your answer. After all, it’s only a test.

“Get plenty of sleep. Relax. Eat a good breakfast. Bring a lunch if needed. Bring pencils, calculators, etc.,” paraprofessional Cheryl Epps said.

Students are not to worry when it comes to the big day.

“Do something fun so your mind, body, spirit are alert for test day,” counselor Bob Bower said.

ACT Tips1. PREPAREStudying using a textbook or online resources. 2. FEED YOUR BRAINEat a nutritious breakfast. Do not leave the house on an empty stomach.3. NO EXCUSESCome to school prepared with a #2 pencil.4. TRY YOUR BESTDon’t leave an answer blank, just guess. It may be right.5. BE READYBe confident and no worries.

FeaturesHolt HigH ScHool RAmpARtS FEBRUARY 2013

11

Who’s got hold of your heart?Students share their insight on how to win over someone specialHAnnAH mARSH

opinion editor

Some students have a hard time finding a serious relationship in high school. A lot of jokes are made about kids having multiple ‘flavors of the week,’ but despite the

preconceived image of high school dating, some students have built lasting relationships. These students share their insight and tricks of the trade, beginning with the first move.

Starting things off “I don’t think it matters who makes the first move. A lot of girls

just expect the guy to do it, so they wait around until something happens. It depends on the relationship,” senior Hailee Butler said. Butler has been in a relationship for three years. “My

boyfriend asked me out first, but part of that was because I was too shy to do it myself.”

Not all students feel the same way. Some prefer to take a more traditional route.

“I think that the guy should be the one to make the first move. I don’t know why, it’s just what guys do,” junior Katelynn Phillips said.

Where to go and what to doAfter you’re together, then what? Where do you go? What’s a

good date? Dates can be an exciting night out or a relaxing night in, sometimes it’s hard to choose which is appropriate. Is the perfect date universal, the same for everyone, or does it depend on the relationship?

“I think the best dates are TV or movie nights. Dates where we can just sit at home and hang out. It’s not about the money you spend or what you do,” Butler said, adding that she ranks a relaxing night in over a busy night out. “Going out all the time gets old and starts to get expensive for whoever’s paying.”

Other students would rather go out and spend a little money on their date.

“I think it’s fun to take a girl out. I like to buy her dinner or see

a movie, to be a gentleman,” senior Paul Guilfoyle said. “After a while it’d get too expensive, but for the first date I like to pay.”

Healthy relationship tipsOkay, so you go on a date, you have a good time. Soon,

things could start to get serious. Senior Allison Nastally and her boyfriend have been dating for over three years. She says trust is the secret to a strong relationship.

“Without trust, a strong relationship wouldn’t even be possible,” Nastally said. “Also, you need to be totally open to making a big commitment to them and sticking to it.”

Junior Carol Reisner agrees that trust is important to a relationship, but has found it’s not the only aspect that a relationship needs.

“I think communication and trust are a big part of having a good relationship,” Reisner said. “And, you need to let the other person have their space when they need it.” Reisner added that if you don’t feel like you can talk to who you’re dating, your relationship won’t last.

“You have to be comfortable with who you’re dating to make a relationship work,” senior Alex Schmierer said.

“My girlfriend really is my best friend,“ senior Alex Schmierer said. He has been dating his girlfriend Samantha for about two years.

“The best relationships are when your boyfriend becomes your best friend,” senior Allison Nastally said. She’s been dating her boyfriend Blayne for over three years.

“Being single isn’t so bad,” senior Paul Guilfoyle said. “You have a lot more freedom.”

“My boyfriend is my best friend,” junior Carol Reisner said. She and her boyfriend Josh have been dating for four months.

“The key to a good relationship is being comfortable together,” senior Hailee Butler said. She’s been in a relationship with her boyfriend Nick for more than three years.

A.N. & B.w.c.R. & J.R.

A.s. & s.m.Be mine?

H.B. & N.w.

Photo Illustrations by Hannah Marsh

Features10Holt HigH ScHool RAmpARtSFEBRUARY 2013

Tips For Survival

Abby cousineau

Healthy Relationships

Young women seek beauty but for wrong coURtnEY HoUSER

staff writer

love. Love is universal and every person has their own definition of

what they think it is. Everyone wants to find their other half, and a lot of us are trying our luck at it now while we’re in high school.

Some may say that high school relationships are pointless, while others might encourage it because you could find the person you are truly meant to be with. Either way, it is still a great learning experience; you get to make mistakes, have fun, and learn more about yourself.

Regardless of whether it works out or not, if you are in a relationship, now or at any point in your life, you need to have a healthy one. Being in an unhealthy relationship causes you stress and ends up being unenjoyable. So to help you out, here are some simple tips that will make your all your relationships worthwhile.

• Have respect. Having mutual respect for each other is essential to having a healthy relationship.

• Listen to your partner ’s concerns and complaints without judgment. Also, having empathy is crucial. Be able to look at things from your partner’s perspective as well as your own, even if you have different views.

• Maintain self-respect and self-esteem. It’s easier for someone to like you and to be around you when you like yourself. You must learn to love yourself, for all your faults and everything else, before you can truly love someone else.

• Communicate with one another and talk out your disagreements.

• And don’t forget to have fun either. Being in a relationship, especially in high school, shouldn’t be boring.

Being in a high school relationship can be hard. You have to maintain going to school and getting good grades, on top of sports, work and friends. But love still exists. You may not find true love for a while, but if you are willing to give it a chance and choose to be in a relationship in high school, make sure it is a healthy one so it’s one you won’t regret.

Photo by Courtney HouserMagazines such as the ones above have become the harsh reality and bitter ache in the lives of young women everywhere.

Exposed to the influence of advertisements, many of today’s young women have had the view of true beauty beaten to a pulp by what they see on television or read in the thick pages in magazines.

According to online sources, statistics show that one quarter of al l television commercials influence a message related to being attractive, and that alone is able to introduce young women down a dark and unsatisfying road that could possibly push them as far as death.

In a recent Ramparts survey of thirty students, individuals were asked to write down their own definition of beauty, and not one student’s definition was the same.

“It ’s the effect you have on people,” English teacher Erin Umpstead said. “If you can put a smile on someone’s face you’ve

affected them in a beautiful way.”The inner personality of an

individual is able to stand taller than any body image. However, many st i l l fa i l to not ice that important factor and have since the beginning.

At age three, many little girls are handed a doll famously known as Barbie. Barbie is one of the very first human-like figures to be looked up to.

Such strong bodily features that

include an irregular bust and waist size are naturally unattainable for any woman.

Society has mindlessly become subjected to the false beauty standard that has grown to be so bluntly noticeable.

These beauty influences will continue on in their course of direction because it is business.

Brand name companies, for example, have used irregular beauty to their advantage.

“Every channel seems to have a provocative female figure it seems,” senior Katelyn Danford said. “Take the Victoria’s Secret commercials, for example.”

From selling makeup to pushing new fashion, the face of the brand does it all. Young girls see the images and believe that if they want the look they have to buy it.

“Being confident with your self that it portrays on the outside,” senior Allison Pingston said.

The eyes of others will never be as judgmental as your own, and the abuse young women put themselves through has gone too far.

With peer support anyone can make a difference with how beauty is seen.

Style of music: “College radio stations, indie rock.”

“lonely Boy” by Black Keys“I like the beat.”

“Home” by Phillip Philips“Because I like the message.”

“lazy eye” by silversun Pickups“It has a lot of emotion to it.”

“Ho-Hey” by the lumineers“I like that it has a tambourine in it.”

“Boom Boom” by the Animals“Because it was in James Bond’s ‘Skyfall.’”

style of music: “Pop.”

“love somebody” by maroon 5“It has a good beat to it, and I love anything by Maroon 5.”

“Breaking Free” by High school musical“It brings back good memories from elementary school.”

“the wop” by J-Dash“It gets me motivated when I work out.”

“little things” by one Direction“It’s a really cute song.”

“Give me love” by ed sheeran“A friend showed me it, so it means a lot to me. And it calms me down.”

If you’d like to tell us what songs are stuck in your head, e-mail a list of five songs and your comments to ramparts@hpsk12.net

What’s stuckin math teacher Dave Hildebrandt’s head?

What’s stuck in sophomore Elise Maynard’s head??

We’ve selected two people to interview and find out what music they love this month.

The Hot Spot 13Holt HigH ScHool RAmpARtS FEBRUARY 2013

My Tunes

The following authors chosen by readers have taken a stand in this world and created wonderful stories. Based on a survey of 75 students about the greatest authors of all time, William Shakespeare was voted number one, but not far behind him was Theodor Seuss Geisel (Dr. Seuss).

For the greatest living authors, J. K. Rowling was number one with Nicholas Sparks and Stephen King following closely behind.

Authors are never forgotten. Books, short stories, plays, novels and even biographies are always in history, waiting to be picked up by eager people to be read.

Great authors who can capture words perfectly in a story make history. Words on a page may not seem important to some, but can create an entire new world to others.

Shakespeare, Dr. Seuss, Rowling, Sparks and King were chosen by readers as the greatest authors in history because they each can create a new world, and capture readers attention until the very last page.

william shakespeareShakespeare was an English playwright

and poet. He wrote many tragedies, poems, comedies, and histories. Famous works are “Romeo and Juliet,” “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” “Hamlet” and “All’s Well that Ends Well.”

“His work encompassed all emotions, genres themes and is still relevant,” English teacher Anne Russo said.

Shakespeare died in 1616, and still today his plays are preformed throughout the world.

“Not only did he entertain people at the time, his works still hold up. Plus, he enriched our language so much,” math teacher Dave Hildebrandt said.

theodor seuss Geisel (Dr. seuss)Dr. Seuss wrote children’s books. He

incorporated rhymes within his books. Famous works are “Green Eggs and Ham,” “Cat in the Hat” and “One Fish Two Fish Red Fish Blue Fish.”

“He was able to say and teach lessons in an extremely low number of words,” senior Martin Welch said.

Dr. Seuss died in 1991, and to this day his books are made into movies, like ‘The Lorax’ in honor of his memory and work.

“‘Star Bellies’ (‘The Sneetches’) was a life teaching lesson that wasn’t too difficult to understand because of how entertaining it was,” junior Laron Lee said.

J.K. Rowling Rowling wrote the “Harry Potter” series

for children. After the seven book series, she wrote an adult novel, “The Casual Vacancy.” “She started an absolute phenomenon,” senior Katherine Patterson said.

Rowling was born in 1965, her ‘Harry Potter’ series has won multiple awards, and sold more than 400 million copies worldwide.

“She came up with a whole new world. She created seven books with so much detail, twists and turns,” senior Shayne Wireman said.

Nicholas sparks Sparks has written over 14 novels. Famous

works include “The Notebook,” “Message in a Bottle” and “The Lucky One.”

“I love every single one of his books,” senior

Terese Dragonetti said. Sparks was born in 1965, and eight of his

books have been made into movies.“He has a way of getting everyone into the

story,” senior Morgan David said.

stephen KingKing writes contempotary horror, suspense,

fantasy and science fiction novels. He has written 50 novels so far, with plans to write more. His most famous books are “The Shining,” “Carrie” and the series “The Dark Tower” which has eight books within it.

“His books use a lot of literary devices to make it realistic,” senior Victoria Januszewski said.

King was born in 1947, and has sold more than 350 copies, and some have been made into movies, television series and comics.

“He is the master of horror and creating new worlds,” senior Jake Hitchcock said.

Readers share favorite authorsThe top writers in history and present are chosen by students and staffkAYlA loVElY

news editor

Photos: Fair use

Holt HigH ScHool RAmpARtSFEBRUARY 2013

12 The Hot SpotThat’s Entertainment Soundtrack to

student livesmy favorite movie genre is horror.

I love scary movies and all the gore that comes with them. I know it sounds like I’m demented; I’m really not.

I grew up watching “Scream,” “Halloween,” “A Nightmare on Elm Street,” and “Friday the 13th.” Since then, I’ve grown a fondness for the genre.

I can watch any scary movie, but I can’t do scary movies that involve werewolves. I remember I watched this movie called “Silver Bullet,” based on the book “Cycle of the Werewolf” by Stephen King, years and years ago. I can do the scary movies that involve a monster under the bed or murderous psychopaths, but not one that includes a werewolf. Funny, right?

This year I’m looking forward to all the upcoming horror films. I started this year with “Texas Chainsaw 3-D.” It was really good. I’m pretty sure I was the only one at Celebration Cinema who liked it. I even got the 3-D poster that’s worth $280 (as seen on eBay).Who knew that there were other horror fans just like me?

The next upcoming horror film on my list is “Evil Dead,” the remake of the cult 1981 low-budget film. “The Evil Dead” has always been one of my favorite horror films because it proves that you don’t need to spend big money to make a horror film scary. With the remake coming out (in theaters April 5), I am expecting there to be a lot, and I mean a lot, of blood just like the original and some humor.

Later this year we have “Insidious Chapter 2” (in theaters August 30). “Insidious” was actually the scariest film I saw in 2011 and probably one of the scariest films I will ever see. If you hated “Insidious,” you do not know what true horror is.

E n d i n g t h e y e a r w e h a v e “Paranormal Activity 5” and “Carrie,” just in time for Halloween. With “Paranormal” we know what to expect, and with “Carrie” we know that it is a remake. Other than that, it looks like a good year for scary movies. I can’t wait!

Music often plays a big part in a person’s day. It is listened to every morning, when getting ready to start the day or when someone is getting ready to go to bed. Music is played when working out, trying to focus or even attempting to clear someone’s mind.

However, certain songs stand out and never get old. These songs often describe someone’s life, or have played an important role in someone’s life. Certain songs are a release from reality, or go off in someone’s head when thinking about past events.

In the end, music plays a large role in students’ lives. These are some songs students enjoy listening to for the meaning behind the songs, or moments associated with them.

ZAHRA AHmAd

editor-in-chief

“Pursuit of Happiness” by Kid Cudi

“I like this song because it’s all about how he finds happiness through music, and the journey.”“Don’t Stop Believing ” by Journey

“It’s just a classic song about having hope and telling everyone that if you believe, then anything

can happen.”“Other side” by Macklemore

“The song itself is just a good story and tells about how he had the struggles of drug addiction throughout his life but then turned it around.”“Cruise” by Florida Georgia Line

“This is just a great song that can make it feel like summertime in the midst of winter.”“Demons” by Imagine Dragons

“This is such a great song that can put anyone in a great state of mind.”“Little Talks” by Of Monsters and Men

“This song is about a person who dies and the husband or wife can’t let go of the past, plus it has a great beat.”

Junior Brenden Marriage

“Gorgeous” by Kanye West“This song shows the lengths

people go to get famous and the outrageous things they do to keep it.”“Cabin Fever” by Wiz Khalifa

“This song just tells of having a good time with good friends.”“Power” by Kanye West

“There are parts that preach about

budget cuts hit the schools first and prisons last, but everyone thinks everything’s okay.”“Renegade” by Jay Z and Eminem

“This song just tells how the public views rap and the stereotypes behind it. It’s cool though because it’s two sided and one side explains the expression of rap.”“99 Problems” by Jay Z

“ This song just tries to tell off all the problems the rapper had growing up.”“Hypnotize” by Notorious B. I. G.

“This song pops into everyone’s head when they think of Biggie Smalls. Overall a good song talking about maintaining success.”

“Earl” by Earl Sweatshirt“I like Earl because I can relate.

My father, too, left when I was younger. There are specific lyrics in there that just mean a lot.”“Sunshine” by Atmosphere

“‘Sunshine’ reminds me to look on the brighter side of life, instead

of seeing things as shallow.”“Stay Together for the Kids” by Blink-182

“This was the song that helped me through the divorce of my parents when I was younger.”“Hurt” by Johnny Cash

“‘Hurt’ is just a good song, recognizing that imperfection is common, and there are people who only live in pain. We should all recognize that.”“Mellow” by Dez Harley

“This is just a song I can relax to, whenever.”

Junior Kevin Sun

thrills and chillsBryce Zippi

“Love without tragedy” by Rihanna “I like this song because it is about

how you can cherish love if you don’t have tragic events follow it.”“Part of Me” by Katy Perry

“This song is inspiring and encourages you to want to stay true to yourself no matter what, and the

beat is really fun.”“California Girls” by Katy Perry

“I love this song because I feel like I should be from California, and it’s really fun and up tempo.”“Pour it Up” by Rihanna

“This is just a really fun song, and every time I hear it, it just pumps me up and makes me want to just have a lot of fun.”“Stay” by Rihanna

“I love this song because I can relate to it in my life. I have a boy I really like, and I just hope nothing goes wrong. I want him to stay around like the song says.”

Senior India Heard

S o p h o m o r e T r a v i s Stephenson

Photos and photo illustration by Zahra Ahmad

Sports 15Holt HigH ScHool RAmpARtS

GYmNAstIcsseason highlight: “When we got our highest score of the last four years as a team [135 points],” junior Sam Sarata said.in their words: “We had a lot of team bonding, and our team was closer than in previous years. The seniors really included the underclassmen,” Sarata said.

HocKeYrecord: 10-15league standing: season highlight: “We have a lot of fun on the ice. Practice was the best part of the season because everyone got to work together,” junior Jacob Thompson said.in their words: “It’s been a very fun and interesting season,” senior Jason Daman said.

BoYs swImmING AND DIVINGleague standing: Sixth place season highlight: “The best part of the season for me was beating Jackson at home, that would have to be the highlight,” junior Grant Colligan said.in their words: “The season was really good. The best part was going to MISCA; a huge swimming conference,” senior Joseph Mraz said.

wRestlINGrecord: 15-11league standing: First placeseason highlight: “The 2.7 second take-down by Duane Hoard,” junior Devin Taylor said.in their words: “Winning the league championship. All the team came together, we had a common goal and we achieved it,” senior Shayne Wireman said.

GIRls BAsKetBAllrecord: 13-7league standing: Fourth placeseason highlight: “When we only lost to East Lansing by 12 because we hung with them. The first time we played them, they blew us out,” junior Khadeja Anthony said.in their words: “I like my teammates because we are like a family. We all have each other’s back,” Anthony said.

The Press BoxFEBRUARY 2013

Brown and GoldRams head into state tourney as conference champs

noAH goldBlAtt

sports editor

Beating the state champs along the way, the boys basketball team is reaching the end of their regular season, with just two games before the season ends, on the way to the playoffs.

T h e b o y s b a s k e t b a l l t e a m currently has a record of 14-4, with only three conference losses. They won the CAAC Blue on January 19 with a win against Jackson, and a Lansing Eastern loss to Okemos.

The team has had a successful run this season, under Coach Matt Essel, with junior captain DonQuall Jackson leading the charge as the team leader in points and assists, with 12.7 points per game, and 6.1 assists.

The team is also getting help from underrated players, like junior transfer Tyrell Williams.

“A lot of people sleep on [forget about] Tyrell Williams,” junior Eric Glass said.   “They limit his abilities, but he can play multiple positions.   He might start at the [small forward position] but he can play almost any position well.”

Another under rated player, according to Jackson, is senior Tanner Beachnau.

“A lot of teams don’t realize the threat that Tanner is, both on offense and defense,” Jackson said.

In the last four games, Beachnau has made 10 three-pointers, and had 13 points and 10 rebounds in the CAAC Blue, clinching a win against

Jackson, his first double-double of the season.

Senior Trevor Stone says that everybody is important on this year’s team.

“Everybody has their own part that they bring to the team. Nobody is underrated,” Stone said.

The team started off the season with wins over conference foes Waverly (54-51) and Eastern (69-60) in December, and has kept rolling since, despite losses to rivals Jackson (68-55), and Eastern (67-65), and a

loss to non-conference opponent Hudsonville (61-56).  

The team also scored a big win against last year’s state champ, Sexton, (50-46).  In the second game of the season against Sexton, Holt lost a tight game, (50-47).

Okemos was another foe that Holt dispatched this season, winning two games against the Chieftains (60-45 and 55-50).

Even East Lansing coach Steve Finamore is singing the praises of Holt Basketball, praising the team

in the Lansing State Journal.“Holt is the best team in this area,

and I really think they’re going to win (the Class A state championship). They’ve got a lot of depth, a good player at every position, and Matt Essel’s one of the best coaches in the state,” Finamore said.

Finamore’s sentiments reflect the type of season that the basketball team is having this year, a year where even your opponents praise you might be a year for the state championship.

Holt: 15Sexton: 49East Lansing: 61Grand Ledge: 93Okemos: 95

ranked state-wideCAAC Blue teams

According to maxpreps.com as of 2/20/13

Cheerleaders pump up the crowd at an away game versus East Lansing. The girls travel each week to support the team.

Photo by Courtney Houser

CAAC Blue standingsHolt: 10-3Sexton: 8-5Eastern: 8-5Okemos: 6-7East Lansing: 6-7Jackson: 6-7Grand Ledge: 4-9Everett: 4-9

Players prepare for a rebound as senior Trevor Stone shoots a free throw in a game against East Lansing on Friday, February 8. The Rams went on to win with a score of 66 to 64.

Photo by Courtney Houser

cAAc Blue belongs to

14FEBRUARY 2013

DANce teAmseason highlight: “The guy/girl dance because it’s a little less stressful and fun to dance with all the guys,” senior Reanna Cantrall said.in their words: “Our com-petition at St. John’s. We did really well, and it was fun to hang out with all my friends and bond with my team,” sophomore Holly Wiles said.

BoYs BAsKetBAllrecord: 14-4league standing: First place season highlight: “Winning the conference championship (CAAC Blue),” senior Cullen Smith said.in their words: “We had our ups and downs, but we made it through, and we have a long road ahead of us,” junior Romeell Dozier said.

cHeeRleADINGseason highlight: “My favorite memory of the season was performing at the Winterfest assembly. The whole team was really stressed about it, but we ended up pulling through in the end,” senior Erin Self said.in their words: “Our goal this year was to get along and to work together better as a team,” Self said.

BoYs BowlINGrecord: 8-2-2season highlight: “When the team got 244 on our team game,” sophomore Jacob Merz said.in their words: ”Every pin. Every moment. Whatever happens first, you can always recover,” senior Martin Welch said.

GIRls BowlINGrecord: 5-8season highlight: “I hope to see us win a few games this year,” freshman Shelby Cook said.in their words: “I hope to bowl a 130 or higher every game,” Cook said.

SportsThe Press Box

Holt HigH ScHool RAmpARtS

Award presented to football program

team strikes backafter last season Bowling team ends season strong

Coach receives award for players giving back

AniSSA mARtinEZ

staff writer

Winston Churchill once said, “We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.”

The football team and coaches were recognized for their efforts to live Churchill’s philosophy. Earlier this January the football program was presented with the Steve Spicer Memorial Leadership Award. This award is given annually at the Michigan High School Football Coach Association to honor high schools who do community service.

Only three teams in the state received this award, and HHS was one of them along with Millington High School and Romeo High School. HHS also received

this award in the 2010-11 season.“It’s a prestigious honor to be given

this award,” head football coach Al Slamer said.

Many students and staff may not be aware of all the community service that the football team participates in. They help at local churches, work at the Holt Community Food Bank, participate with Midway Elementary’s reading and mentoring program, assist with all-school clean-ups, raise money on targeted programs such as breast cancer awareness, and much more.

Along with this award, the football team received $500 from Washington Woods Middle School because of their contributions to the reading program.

“I enjoy doing community service because it makes the kids happy and it feels good to give back,” junior Adam Turner said.

Turner volunteers at Washington Woods with special needs students and also volunteers with Midway’s math buddies program.

Slamer makes sure each player is

involved in at least one community service project.

“It’s important to give back to the community because they show their support at our games,” junior team member Josh Marsh said. Marsh also helps at Midway.

“I like doing these things because the kids we help out with really look up to us,” Marsh said.

This award is a reminder that the football team does more for the community than just playing on Friday nights.

“We want our young men down the road to be better dads, husbands, employees, and community members,” Slamer said. “We hope they learn to give unselfishly throughout their lives.”

Before pre-season workouts, the football team and coach Slamer pose with the two Steve Spicer Memorial Leadership Awards. These awards were earned for the various community service projects the team is involved with.

Photo by Anissa Martinez

With the season coming to a close, the girls and boys bowling teams are working hard for a strong finish. The boys finished with a record of 8-2-2 and the girls team finishing 5-8.

Boys and girls have separate competitions for regionals, and only the top three schools advance to the state tournament. Unfortunately, both teams were eliminated during regionals.

It’s not all luck that got the teams this far, though. Practices give the team time to help each other work on picking up spares and splits and becoming better as a team.

“The only way to get better is practice. I do leagues in the off

seasons and just try to keep my arm in shape for the next season,” junior Greg Blanck said.

Bowling can be a high pressure sport, just like any other sport, with the team depending on each player to get a good score each frame.

“Bowling under pressure is my favorite about the game,” Blanck said. “ The pressure helps me bowl better knowing that my team depends on my shot.”

Next year, both teams hope to do better than what they did this season.

“I hope the teams get winning records next year,” senior Darion Greenlee said.

Each season the team goes to the Owosso-Baker tournament. It starts early in the morning and consists of five to six hours of bowling.

“I am really going to miss the competition,” senior Martin Welch said. ”I will miss the must win games and the feeling of being part of something bigger than yourself. I’ll miss every practice and every game.”

ZAck gillilAnd

editor-in-chief

Sports 16 Holt HigH ScHool RAmpARtS FEBRUARY 2013

Don’t Miss This

Girls Basketball March 5 The team will play the MHSAA Regionals at 6 p.m. The game will be played at home. Holt will be playing Gull Lake.

wrestling March 2Individual states for wrestling will take place on March 2.

spring sports March 11 Spring sports start on March 11, which is the earliest day teams can start practicing.

Boys lacrosse March 23 The lacrosse team will play their first game of the season on Saturday March 23 against Saline.

Sport ethics violations cause controversyBreaches in ethics shake the sports world

mAYA FEWS

feature editor

For every sport, a set of rules and regulations is used in order to protect players and to make sure that no foul play is being done by organizations and players. It may appear nowadays that most stories that appear in the media are about teams, players and organizations breaking the rules and doing questionable behavior.

The most recent examples of foul play would be cyclist Lance Armstrong, who did performance enhancing drugs and lied under oath in court when he was accused of doing such actions. Baseball player Alex Rodriguez, who admitted to using drugs in 2001 and 2003, is now facing accusations that he has used banned substances again.

“I think sports ethics have become a problem. Athletes are held to a high level; people look up to them and make connections with them,” senior Kori Ramirez said.

Lance Armstrong has been one of cycling's biggest superstars for years. Accusations have been circling about the possible use of banned substances. This year the rumors have were put to rest when Armstrong confessed to the use of banned substances. As a result, his winnings has been revoked.

Armstrong has also lost his contract of endorsements with Nike and Livestrong. On top of losing endorsements, Armstrong has also been engulfed with lawsuits by a promotions company SCA, who would pay Armstrong money for every Tour De France he won.

In order to explain his actions and why Armstrong decided to reveal using banned substances, the ex- cyclist agreed to do an interview with Oprah Winfrey on her show “Oprah’s Next Chapter.” Some critics felt that the interview from Armstrong came a little too late, considering the

damage he has done and how his decision too deny the accusations tarnished people’s reputations.

“He did it for the sport that he loves and to be able to do the thing that he loves at whatever cost necessary,” senior Brian Klebba said.

Cycling is known as an extremely competitive sport, where riders will do anything to have a slight advantage. Another sport that has been scrutinized by the media and fans for illegal substance use is baseball. Many players have been accused of having taken illegal substances, and some have even confessed, but some of the league's most successful players of past and present have used performance -enhancing drugs.

The most recent case would be New York Yankee shortstop Alex Rodriguez, who back in 2009 admitted to the use of steroids. Most recently, a Miami newspaper stated that Rodriguez and other athletes used steroids and other banned substances. Officials in sports like baseball have tried to combat the use of banned substances, but some fans may wonder if there is anything that can really be done.

“I think it just happens naturally in competition. It might not be right, but i think it will always happen every now and then,” senior Elizabeth Haubert said.

Many sports have had ethics problems. College football and basketball have problems with the recruitment practices of players and current players for taking bribes and favors. The life of a college athlete can be hard, since athletes are only allowed to work during the summer and are also not allowed to endorse products. That is why some college players will take bribes and money from various sources like alumni and athletic boosters.

“It’s illegal to take bribes and it makes sense to punish the school, but the actual offender doesn’t get punished,” junior Andrew Jenks said.

A example of this would be former University of Southern California(USC) running back Reggie Bush and his family, who accepted money from an agent for Bush to play at USC and later more gifts to cover up the fact that money was given to Bush. Before the NFL draft in 2006, rumors surfaced about Bush taking bribes, but last year Bush admitted to taking bribes, and as a result, USC faced consequences and Bush gave back his Heisman Trophy.

In terms of recruitment practices, every school has the opportunity to recruit players, but some schools go above and beyond to make sure they land the top recruits.

“I don’t think there is a problem

with recruiting. The most favorable school will win the top recruits. That is why Alabama and other SEC schools get good recruits,” Jenks said.

Examples of breaches of sports ethics can be found in almost every sport, with increased media coverage of these actions. Sports officials are now working towards making sure violations are being punished and players don’t get away actions that they used to in previous years.

Stepping up to the plate, Alex Rodriguez attempts to hit the ball out of the park. On top of being accused of using banned substances, Rodriguez is also facing hip surgery that will cause him to miss the beginning of the season.

Photo by David Pokress/Newsday/MCT)

Buckling his helmet, Armstrong gets ready to race. Armstrong is now engulfed in legal trouble.

Photo by Montigny Philippe/Abaca Press/MCT

Notable cases Berry Bonds - 2007consequence: Court cases regarding Bonds lying in court about taking and being injected with steroids. Reggie Bush - 2009consequence: Gave back 2006 Heisman Trophy and settled court case with Lloyd Lake.

o.J. mayo - 2009consequence: All wins from 2007-2008 season were erased and USC basketball did not participate in post-season Pacific 10 conference (Pac-10). lance Armstrong - 2013 consequence: Loss of endorsements and all Tour De France Victories.