December 2009
Content
CRYSTAL
THE
Lakeview High School, November 2009, Volume 72, Issue 2
CRYSTAL
THE
Superintendent.Cindy Ruble Principal.Chris Doyle Assistant Principal.Mike Norstrom Assistant Principal.Marty Pessetti Adviser.Jodi Darland Editor-in-Chief.Tess Haadsma Assistant Editor.Loren Wright Business Manager.Jaileigh Burdette News Editor.Laceey Ruble Opinion Editor.Christian Grandorf A&E Editor.Alexis Worthington Sports Editor.Tori Jorgensen Feature Editor.Bailey Broderick Photographer.Katie Eberhard Photographer.Amber Glomb Reporter.Haley Burrill Reporter.Catlyn Clark Reporter.Cierra Dixon Reporter.Karli Kipp Reporter.Emilie Lussier Reporter.Reggie Matthews Reporter.Brysen Reigner Reporter.Kellie Riter Reporter.Kaleigh Walters Reporter.Morgan Worthington
Editorial Policy
The Crystal is a student publication distributed free of charge to all Lakeview High School students and staff with a total press run of 1300. The publication serves as a limited open forum for expression and a two way communication for both the school and community. The editor-in-chief with adviser input is responsible for the content. Opinions expressed in the magazine are not necessarily those of the staff or the administration of Lakeview High School. Editors and reporters will make every effort to provide balanced and fair coverage of the news and its significance. Businesses are encouraged to advertise in the Crystal when their ads adhere to the specified guidelines available in the publications room. Members of the Crystal staff can be contacted by calling the publications room phone at 269565-3731 or e-mailing at [email protected]. The Crystal is printed by Gage Company, 220 Buckner Road, Battle Creek, Michigan 49015. The Crystal is a member of the Michigan Interscholastic Press Association, Journalism Education Association and Quill and Scroll. The 2004–2005 and 2005-2006 Crystal received a MIPA Spartan award.
Lakeview High School 15060 S. Helmer Road Battle Creek, MI 49015 lakeviewspartans.org November 2009 Volume 72, Issue 2
2 December 2009
table of contents
Photo by Tess Haadsma
Dear Readers,
On The Cover: Students discuss their most meaningful frendships. Story on pages 16-19
Holiday season. As quickly as it arrives, and despite the whirlwhind of excitement it creates, it will soon be gone before we know it. The Christmas lights will be taken down, the trees set out at the curb, and with it, our idealistic views and upbeat spirits. Reality sets back in. There are bills to pay, jobs to return to. Money to be made, family to tend to. Papers to be written, big games to win. No matter our situation, the feeling is still the same. A feeling of emptiness, almost. A feeling that, despite all that fills us with happiness, warmth and hope throughout that month of December, leaves us cold and lost come January. Like we are caught in a vicious cycle. A rinse and repeat, year after year. Always the same feelings, no matter the situation. So this year, challenge yourself to make a change. Don’t let January get the best of you. Keep a little bit of that Holiday cheer with you for the rest of this coming year. Break if out when you need it most, as a reminder that there is alwayas hope. And yes, maybe life is a rinse and repeat cycle, a movie on repeat. But let that be the proof that shows that we will all make it through even the toughest of times.
news.................................4-7 sports..............................8-11 opinion.........................12-15 centerspread...............16-19 a&e...............................20-25 feature..........................26-32
need to get ahold of us?
Feel free to send letters to the editor, corrections, or mail of any sort to us at [email protected] or just drop them off in the publications room, Room A102 with Adviser Jodi Darland or Editor-in-Cheif Tess Haadsma.
contents
table of
Cover photo by Tess Haadsma, edited by Katie Eberhard
-Editor-in-Chief Tess Haadsma
The Crystal 3
news
Stop spending so much cash
Target
Compiled by: Catlyn Clark
Layout by: Laceey Ruble It is known for its white dog with the red target over its eye. Their clothes are name-brandbut cheap, so one will not have to break their budget for something inexpensive, cute and formfitting. COAT $20.00
My Style, Your Style
A consignment store, but much more than that. Somewhat like Goodwill and Salvation Army, but a bit more trendier for some people’s taste. “It is kind of old lady-ish, but I always go right to the purses,” sophomore Izzy Maier said. SCARF $1.00
Ebay
Anything anyone could need is available on this huge progressing site. From electronics to clothes to accessories to workout equipment. “I definitely go [to Ebay] for the cutest clothes,” Maier said. RING $5.00
Salvation Army
Salvation Army may be the home for used clothes, but used clothes can be good looking and in nice shape. “I usually go [to Salvation Army] to get clothes and have my mom alter them,” freshman Payton Moore said.
Photo by: Ruggie Matthews
BOOTS $7.00
4 December 2009
Surpassing the Swine craze
H1N1 leaves fear in its wake as it shuts down schools across Michigan
Kellie Rter Reporter
Dry coughing, sneezing, chills, a fever - these used to be the symptoms of the usually harmless seasonal influenza virus. This year, the usual strain of the illness has taken a backseat to the ominous H1N1 virus. Better known to most as Swine Flu, the new strain has been sweeping the nation like an all-the-rage phenomenon, but with far fewer fans. It is no secret that the villainous virus’ favorite pastime is closing down schools and events and causing mayhem among the general public. President Obama declared the highly contagious virus a national epidemic, so it may seem as though there is no escape from the doom that supposedly awaits. But is that true? Not neccesarily. Health experts have stated that H1N1 is no worse than the regular flu, and that the only reason people react so fearfully to it is that humans are not yet immune. The same fears were widespread during the scares of MRSA, Bird Flu, and other fad diseases that the world has endured over the years. Swine Flu is certainly not the first plague to descend on humanity. There are vaccines against H1N1, and anyone can get them with an appointment and a small fee. The key to recovery is detecting the virus in plenty of time, which can easily be done by visiting a doctor at the first sign of flulike symptoms. Junior Travis Keathley does not see the symptoms of Swine in his future.
“I’m not afraid of catching Swine, because I had a friend that had it and I didn’t catch it from him,” Keathley said. One theory is that it will become less of an issue during the winter, as the cold kills germs and keeps people in their homes. But the other side of the coin suggests that the worst is yet to come, since the traditional flu season is far from being over. Senior Jesse Cowles is staying fairly optimistic about the outbreak. “I’m hoping it’s gonna improve, because it’s been shown that it’s less deadly than the regular flu,” Cowles said. “I don’t see why everybody’s so hyped up about it.” Foreign Language teacher Erin Ormsby had the misfortune of catching H1N1 in October. Now with a clean bill of health, Ormsby says that Swine Flu should be no cause for panic. “It’s not as scary as people think,” Ormsby said. “It was
actually milder than any seasonal flu I’ve had.” As for the controversy over LHS staying open when so many other area schools were closing their doors, Principal Chris Doyle says that the school was not nearly as close to the required percentage as students thought it was. “It had to be a threshold of 30 percent. The highest we got was 26.1 percent,” Doyle said. In addition to closely watching attendance, the staff also installed hand sanitizer dispensers and puts special effort into thoroughly cleaning the building on a more regular basis. Other precautions include having a nurse at school to check students and re-scheduling November’s Academic Recognition assembly. So what can students do to help themselves this flu season? Wash hands, know the symptoms, and most of all, do not panic. Swine is not quite the apocalypse people have made it out to be.
To note
Students of the month
For September : Cody Sanders (art) Cortney Pipher (business) Elaina Elizondo (communications) Alexis Lee (drama) Myana Mouton (English) Sarah Ploehn (family consumer science) Courtney Volstromer (independant study) Adrian Williams (mathematics) Mallory Coleman (music) Anthony Lemmons (physical education) Quinn Skalka (science) Kylie Cumback (social studies) Ryan Pein (technology) Haley Shanks (world language) Daniel Rickmar (Math and Science Center) Sarah Ploehn (CACC)
December 8, The LHS choirs will be having their winter concert at the St. Thomas Church downtown located across from St. Phil.
FACING THE FACTS:
•Symptoms of Swine Flu include fever, cough, head and body aches, chills, sore throat, runny/stuffy nose and severe fatigue. •Of the 36,000 estimated flu deaths in the U.S. each year, only about 4,000 deaths were caused by Swine Flu in 2009. (See chart)
December 12, The Black and White Affair dance will be taking place in the LHS cafe. Tickets are cost $10 each at the door.
SEASONAL H1N1
Only Approximately ten percent of this year’s flu-related deaths have been caused by H1N1.
December 23, Winter Break starts and will continue through Jan. 4. It will be a good time to kick back and relax with friends and family.
The Crystal 5
news
Photo by: Karli Kipp
Above average absences
Christian Grandorf Opinion Editor
With every school year comes new rules and policies. This school year, the administration took on absences, tardies and discipline. Following a year of above average discipline, the administration sat down and decided that something had
to be done. Along came the infamous and often misunderstood seven absence rule. “We [the administration] decided to connect white cards to absences, referrals and tardies,” Principal Chris Doyle said. After cracking down on discipline, something had to be done. The new rules limit students to seven absences,
The Trouble Stops Here
After discipline, absences and tardies were tied to the white card, numbers dropped drastically. Unexcused absences October 2008 October 2009 131 9 Tardies 84 66 Referrals 425 209
zero unexcused absences and zero referrals. After a single criteria is broken, students will lose their white card. This is the point that students get confused, however. “After ten absences, we will have an audit with the student, meaning that we will sit down with the student and their parents, and determine whether or not the absences were truly excused or not,” Doyle said. The problem was that students were having their parents call in, automatically assuming that they were excused. “Students would, for example, forget that they had a paper due and have their mom call them in sick. This year, we’re taking a harder look at cases like that to determine whether or not the student was honestly sick, or if they didn’t want to write the paper,” Doyle said. The results are stunning.
“Last year, there were as many as 30 to 35 students signing in late every morning, now it’s 10 or 15 at the most,” hall monitor/ coordinator Tom Striffler said. Also introduced were attendance letters. At four, seven and ten absences, letters are mailed home informing parents and students of the absences. “I really think the letters are helping. I’m getting far fewer calls in the morning and during the day. It’s defiantly a noticeable change,” secretary Joy Miller said. Unexcused absences are also falling gradually with the new rules. “There are a lot less unexcused absences every day than previous years,” Miller said. Despite the apparent confusion, the new rules are working. Students are setting record lows this year, rather than the record highs set last school year.
6 December 2009
Photo by: Karli Kipp
Get involved locally
NHS and KEY Club volunteer to help out with many activities throughout the holiday season NHS KEY Club
Community Inclusive Recreation Holiday Event: Dec. 8, 5:30 - 8:30 p.m. Salvation Army Bell Ringing: Dec. 5 at Lakeview Square Mall Ushering for BC Symphony: Dec. 19, 6:00 p.m. Candygrams: Dec. 14-17; deliver Dec.18
Compiled by: Loren Wright
Toys for Tots: Box in the office Macy’s Letters: Write letters on Dec. 11
For more information about these Holiday events contact either Media Specialist Margaret Lincoln or KEY Club president Lori Rombaugh.
The Crystal 7
sports
Quidditch: The real team of the imaginary sport
Tess Haadsma Editor-in-Chief
Before 1998, the sport of Quidditch did not exist. Even today, its existence is questioned by some. Originally invented by author J.K. Rowling as a sport in the popular Harry Potter books, and now movies, Quidditch was, essentially, an imaginary sport. It is impossible to play in real life due to its heavy reliance on magic such as flying broomsticks and the flying snitch. As Lakeview High School’s Dumbledore’s Army has been taking shape, though, members have found a way to make the fantastical sport into something just as real as the words in this story. The main difference between the sport in the books and movies and the sport played by LHS’s Dumbledore’s Army is the lack of flying broomsticks. Instead, players simply use their legs to run on the ground and carry their brooms, as opposed to flying
QUIDDITCH CREW The quidditch team stops to pose for a picture at their first practice. At this practice, the team did not quite make it onto the field, but decorated brooms for the next practice.
amidst the clouds. The snitch is also not an object, but a person who runs during the game, as it is their goal to not be caught. Junior Jessica Wonderly is a member of the team, and explains how it is different in real life. “We use hula hoops and
decorate brooms and run with them. We use rubber play balls and try to throw them, they’re like the quaffles,” Wonderly said. Wonderly loves being a part of the team. “It’s something to do and it’s just fun because you can hang out and be goofy,” Wonderly said.
For more information on LHS’s Quidditch team or how to join LHS’s newest club, Dumbledore’s Army, contact sophomores Haley Burrill and Laura Keller.
A spare moment with the
bo wl i n g t e a m
“Our entire girls’ varsity team will be returning except for one girl,” senior Joanna Arnold said. “We lost a few seniors and we got some new people, so our season should be pretty good,” junior Michael Lynn said.
The 2008-2009 bowling team had a great season. They sent Torrey Hutchison and Joanna Arnold to state for singles. Besides Hutchison and Arnold, the girls’ team went to state for the first time in Lakeview’s bowling history. This year they will have a tough act to follow, but they feel they can have a better season. Compiled by: Tori Jorgensen
STRIKE The 2009-2010 bowling team hosted their try-outs on November 16th at Nottkes bowling alley. They are expecting to have a great season with many talented bowlers. [Photo by: Loren Wright]
8 December 2009
Photo provided by: Haley Burrill
Comparison between hunting with bow and arrow or guns. Bow and Arrow
• Wear camouflage clothing • Deer must be closer • Sit in tree stands • Deer archery season • It is necessary to have an archery hunting license • Illegal to carry a firearm along while bow hunting
Information only based on deer hunting
Drawn back, safety off
Guns
• Wear hunter orange clothing • Shoot deer further away • Sit in enclosed blinds • Deer firearm season • It is necessary to have a firearm hunting license • Illegal to carry a bow along while hunting with a firearm
Compiled by: Tori Jorgensen
The Crystal 9
sports
Stealing the...
Compiled by: Bailey Broderick
• What sport do you play? Soccer • How long have you been playing? 11 Years • What’s your favorite aspect of the sport? Playing in the games and being with friends. • Do you plan on playing in college? Why? It is a lot of fun so he would play in college if the opportunity presented itself.
Matt Herbers
JUGGLING SPORTS Senior Nicole Bentz juggles a soccer ball with ultimate skill and grace. [Photo by: Amber Glomb Edited by: Katie Eberhard]
Nicole Bentz
• What sport do you play? Basketball and soccer • How long have you been playing? Basketball-Six years Soccer-12 years • What’s your favorite aspect of the sports? The competition. • Do you plan on playing in college? Why? Yes, hoping to play soccer because it is something she’s always wanted to do.
QUICK SAVE Junior Matt Herbers calmly poses with a soccer ball, expressing his enthusiasm for the sport. [Photo by: Amber Glomb Edited by: Katie Eberhard]
...Spotlight
10 December 2009
Showing off their strength
Current Lakeview High School students voice their opinions about getting on the weight room record board multiple times. “I did competitive power-lift“My dad said he would pay me $200 to take the class again so I could try and beat the top record for bench press; I was like 15lbs away from it. I didn’t want to do that though because I had already taken it twice and wanted room in my schedule to take other classes,” senior Rikki Perry said. ing through another school for a while. I ended up going to a state competition for it and placed fourth overall. I lifted just for fun, to stay in shape for other sports I played at the time. As for weightlifting during class, I didn’t think that I would place high on the board... I just wanted to be on there at least once,” senior Sallie Pennock said.
1. 2.
3.
1. Rikki Perry Bench press- 130 lbs 3. John Ayres Towel bench- 130 lbs Bench press- 305 lbs Squat- 460 lbs 2. Sallie Pennock Power clean- 250 lbs Bench press- 125 lbs Box squat- 580 lbs Squat- 195 lbs Dead lift- 500 lbs Power clean- 135 lbs Dead lift- 310 lbs
“I’m really dedicated to the weightroom; I lift a lot. I’m in there about five times a week from anywhere between an hour to an hour and a half,” senior John Ayres said.
Compiled by: Alexis Worthington Photos by: Amber Glomb
The Crystal 11
opinion
CRYSTAL POINT
One Staff One Opinion
Walking past a classroom to find a student’s eyes glazing over and their attention fading away during a lesson is not uncommon at Lakeview High School. Stressed, fatigued kids come to school every day after a long night of homework, sports or just down time to themselves. Giving the students here at LHS a recess, study hall or just a little bit more time for lunch could lessen the number of students falling asleep in classes and increase the amount of students paying attention to lessons. If the students are given a recess to take a short nap, talk amongst their friends or even go to their teachers for extra help with their work, it would be beneficial. In our younger years of school, we received short breaks in our day to get all of our built up energy out or to restart our systems to keep us alert. It seems that if we got that back, for even twenty minutes, we would rejuvinate our brains. It would take some of the strain away from school, sports, extra curriculars, home life and all the other tension we bog ourselves down with. If the administration gave us a short break to loosen up and clear our minds, students would stay awake during class and focus more.
Photo by: Reggie Matthews and Kaleigh Walters
12 December 2009
Remember: It is the season of giving, not the season of receiving
By Laceey Ruble
during a time when Michigan’s unemployment rate People often say the holiday season is their favorite time of year. And for many it is because they has risen. Help those who can not celebrate this season by donating to food banks. are showered with gifts. But one should remember that the basis of the holiday season is being thankAlbert Einstein once said, “It is every man’s obligation to put back into the world at least the equivful and giving to those you are closest to. alent of what he takes out The holiday season is a time of it.” to celebrate family and friends. It is in the best interest Having people who love and care for you is the best present of everyone to strive toEveryone should make it their anyone could receive. wards giving just as much mission during this time of year You should make it your misas you receive. to bring a smile to as many faces sion during this time of year to Being a giver not only as possible. bring a smile to as many faces helps out those around - Laceey Ruble as possible. you, but it will make you Spread joy throughout our a better person, one who school by giving small gifts will appreciate all that to anyone who has touched your life in some way. is given to them. You’ll be able to help the world Something as small as a heart-felt card can make through giving back to it. someone’s bad day fade away. The holiday season is also a time to become Many people cannot say that they have not closer to those with whom you are already close. received a present in the holiday season. However, Give the gift of giving and everyone you touch will some people do not have enough money, especially feel the purpose of the holiday season.
“
”
THE SAGA OF JEFF
By: Kellie Riter
The Crystal 13
opinion DIVERSEVIEWPOINTS
Should holiday activities be renamed to be politically correct?
Being holiday-specific may offend other religions
Make no mistake, there is nothing wrong with celebrating Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa or any other religion-specific holiday during the highly anticipated vacation that is winter break. But for students who do not celebrate certain holidays, it can make them feel uncomfortable or ostracized if every event happening around them is named after a holiday in which they do not participate. KELLIE RITER Tolerance is a pretty big deal around Lakeview High School. As students, we try to keep an open mind when it comes to sexuality, race and other commonly disputed issues, so why does that not that always extend to students’ beliefs? Imagine being a devout follower of a specific religion, if you are not already. Now imagine that everywhere you go, there are events, decorations, signs and commercials, all boasting an unfamiliar holiday. Things like that can make people feel left out of something that everyone around them seems to be in on. And that is never a pleasant feeling. Lakeview has already taken the first steps toward being friendly to all denominations, starting with changing the name of the old Christmas break to winter break. But there is still a lot to be done to make the student body, not to mention the community of Battle Creek, more accepting as a whole.
It forces people to throw away their beliefs
Every year it seems that we can say less and less during the holiday season. We are no longer supposed to greet others with “Merry Christmas,” but rather “Happy Holidays.” To me, this seems like a push for conformity. It is expected that students disregard whatever holiday they choose to celebrate and intertwine other beliefs. Living in a country encouraging diversity, I CHRISTIAN GRANDORF feel as if holiday correctness goes against the foundation of America. As kids, we are taught to accept others, regardeless of race, gender, religion, etc. If I say “Merry Christmas” to someone, I am not trying to force my beliefs onto them, I am just wishing them a Merry Christmas. In contrast, if someone was to wish me a Happy Hannukah, I would not be offended either. Our constant fear of offending anyone is being pushed to rediculous limits. At some point, people are going to be ashamed of the holiday they choose to celebrate due to a deep fear of offending someone. This holiday season, I encourage everyone to let the holiday you celebrate be known. Be proud of yourself, and greet people with a Merry Christmas, Happy Hannukah or a Happy Kwanzaa. Do not shy away from your beliefs for fear of offending somebody. I encourage everyone to accept others and their beliefs, and express yourself.
YES NO
Your Turn
“I think people get the point of it no matter what it’s called, so its fine the way it is.” “No, because Christmas is the most celebrated holiday and a majority of people celebrate it anyways.”
–AMELIA KOZARSKI, JUNIOR
–DAVIS MULDER, SENIOR
“No, I don’t think 14 December 2009 so because most of
our life we’ve associated certain activities with holidays like Christmas and Easter.”
“No, because I think that usually the activities are specifically surrounding a certain holiday, so it’s okay.”
–NICK WALKER, FRESHMAN
–SHELBY HOLDERNESS, SOPHOMORE
14 December 2009
Intro takes on opinion
A student’s definition of “getting into trouble” varies from person to person, but no matter the definition, I believe students do not get into as much trouble in the winter. In the winter, students do not have as much time to do things as in the summer. A typical winter day consists of mostly school and either a sports team practice or other extra curricular activity, where our behavior is monitored and decides whether or not we get to participate. In the summer, students are allowed more freedom. We can do whatever we want for the majority of the day, allowing plenty of time for students to get into trouble. We also have all seven days of the week, instead of just the two-day weekend we have available in the winter. In the winter, driving conditions cause students to be cautious when they go out on the roads. Some may decide that they do not want to go out and risk the chance of getting in an accident. So instead of partying that night, they may decide that it is best to pop in a movie and just relax at home. It is more convenient for students to cause trouble in the summer than it is in the winter.
Signed, Laura Keller
Intro to Journalism
The Crystal 15
Family and friends last forever
Despite their genetic connection, family members may possess a variety of characteristics. And although family members often spend a lot of time together, they can seem worlds apart. Through the roots of the family tree, Lakeview’s “family members” provide us an insight as to what their families are like. Continue on to pg. 18 to read more
centerspread
The Aunt: The Sister: “My aunt The Brother: The Cousin: “My sister and I like and my mom “My brother and I play “My cousin making videos and stuff always hang video games together a lot,” on the computer imitating out together so Grace and junior Ashton Lowe The Mother: The Office,” freshman I see her quite I feed each said. “My mom and I Andrea Auton said. a bit, plus she other ice fight all the time, but I’m cream....Well.. lives close,” closer to her more than we did once,” sophomore anybody,” sophomore sophomore Chelsea Cory Gray said. Abbey Kazlauskas Labrecque said. said. The Dad: The Daughter: “My dad went to LSU and “My daughter shakes that’s the team who won her booty,” math the National title,” senior teacher Jeremy Chelcie Eaton said. “I Schuitman said. play softball and he’s “If we’re like, the one who taught me ‘Kenzie, let’s how to play, and I’m dance,’ I’ll put that going to get a scholarship Jay-Z track in, Lil’ because of him.” Wayne or Outcast and she’ll shake The Uncle: it. Oh, and she “My uncle Eric used to can do that stanky leg.” dance,” senior Maura McGlynn said.“He’s really The Grandpa: good; he went to Juilliard on a scholarship. “I always play checkers with my grandpa,” Now he’s teaching at a school and is doing a freshman Carolyn Brown said. Shakespeare show in Boston.” The Grandma: “My grandma’s the best, she taught me how Compiled and Illustrated by: Morgan Worthington to cook,” senior Nick Tuttle said.
The
student family tree
TAG...
life
Someone who changed your
BROTHER
UNBIOLOGICAL
your
good music
who likes
Someone
Someone who will
always make you
Compiled by: Loren Wright
Susie Schneider Kyle Bowens Rondrell Porter John Evankovich - Ally Keithley - Katelyn Williams - Grant Roberts - Mac Binger
LOL
18 December 2009
Piecing together the ‘perfect’ friend
“They have to always be there. If I’m having a hard time, they should always make me feel better,” sophomore Emily Furuichi said. “The best trait a friend can have is loyalty. They always have to have your back,” senior Zack Dopp said.
“The best trait my friends have to have is responsibility,” junior Connor Pierce said about his friends Alex Richards and Brett Powell. “If I’m having a bad day, my friends have to make me laugh,” freshman Sydney Bicknell said.
Compiled by: Cierra Dixon Photos by: Amber Glomb
STEREOTYPE me
Compiled by: Bailey Broderick
Kyle Bowens
Four Lakeview students stereotype themselves into four common categories.
Ashley Schwartz
The Slacker
T he Jo ck
Example: Steve Yzerman (Former Red Wing star) Why: “I am always playing sports, all year around. [I have played] baseball, football, track, hockey and wrestling.”
Bryan Evans Example: Katt Williams (Comedian) Why: “It’s my fifth year here [high school]. I goofed around my freshman year and didn’t ever do anything.”
T he Princess
Example: Princess Jasmine (Aladdin) Why: “Because I am one. I have princess everything [backpack, shower curtain, comforter and headband.]”
Photos by: Katie Eberhard and Reggie Matthews
The Rocker
Morgan Ramon Example: Ben Harper (Solo guitar player) Why: “Generally I play [rock] music. [I play guitar, bass and keyboard]. It just makes more sense musically.”
The Crystal 19
a&e
The 2009 Black and White Affair
Cierra Dixon Reporter
The Black and White Affair is the one dance during the winter season where students are asked to wear black and white. Everyone adds their own sense of style to their ensemble to make it unique. Unlike past years, Lakeview’s own dance team will be organizing the event. The team plans on snazzing up the decorations and making sure the music is just right. Leah Brady, head coach for the team, is helping to reassure that the dance will run smoothly. “The girls are going to make sure the DJ has a good play list with only the best music,” Brady said. The dance team is going to be taking music requests from the student body the week before the dance, which is on Sat. Dec. 12. All requests are to be written down on a sheet located in the office. The team is used to organizing the homecoming dance, but said they are excited to take on the task of the Black and White Affair. They plan on making this year’s dance bigger and better
than ever. “It’s going to be a fun dance, and we think everyone will like it,” senior captain Natalie McHale said. “Everyone should plan on going.”
The dance will be held in the high school cafeteria from 9-12 p.m. The tickets will be sold for $10 per person or $15 per couple, when bought at lunch. All tickets are $10 per
person at the door. “I’m excited about the students being able to have a good time, hanging out and being safe, and in a supervised environment,” Brady said.
DELICIOUS DECORATIONS The girls of the Lakeview High School dance team come together hoping to make this year’s Black & White Affair the best it has ever been. The decorations are going to possibly include an arch of balloons which will welcome one into the cafeteria where the dance will be held. [Photo by: ]
Saving money during dances
Girls:
• Wear a friend’s dress • Look at thrift shops and local businesses for dresses • Do your own hair • Do your own make-up • Reuse shoes • Reuse jewelry
Guys:
• Trade ties with friends • Look at TJ Maxx, Meijer, Target for cheaper priced ties • Have the group over for dinner • Look for classy, yet less expensive corsages • Reuse pants, shoes and shirts
20 December 2009
FROM BAGS TO BOTTOMS
The snow might be falling and friends may be calling, but the big question is what is one to wear on such chilly winter days? In past years, some winter trends have been rather unrealistic considering Michigan’s average windchill, but, this year it is all about warmth. Take, for example, the latest trend of oversized sweaters. They are sure to keep one warm and can usually be found quite cheaply at a used clothing store or even one’s parent’s closet. Also taking the fashion world by storm are motorcycle jackets and warm leather coats, in dark colors. What goes nicely with a motorcycle jacket is a pair of black skinny-jeans, versatile and chic all at once. Not to mention easy to find and even easier to purchase at stores like Forever 21 or Wet Seal for less than $30. As for accessories, across the body satchels, beret hats and studded barrettes are in style, in addition to simple shoes, such as Oxford shoes or classic Keds. All things considered, the trend this winter seems to be keeping warm, so bundle up and prepare for snow-filled adventure.
satchels
beret hat
ters wea ds rsize
black skinny jeans
ove
bejewled bobbies
HOTTEST
TRENDS
THIS WINTER’S
Compiled by: Tess Haadsma Photos by: Katie Eberhard
Oxford
shoes
motorcycle jackets
The Crystal 21
a&e
Twin rappers: ‘We Got ’Um’
Freshmen Michael and William Pickowitz pursue their rapping dream.
Brysen Reigner Reporter
Freshmen Michael and William Pickowitz sat down
for an interview to talk about how they got started rapping and how it has progressed since they first began.
Q & A with Double Trouble Q: How did you get started? A: M&W: We’ve been writing and met ‘Black Buddha’ and he wanted to rap with us. Q: How long ago did you start rapping? A: Michael: It was about a year ago when we started writing lyrics. A: William: I took a poetry class a couple years ago and I wanted to transfer it into raps. Q: What are you working on right now? A: Michael: We’re working on
a more upbeat and chill song.” A: William: “We’re trying to do a song that is less in your face. Q: Who/what are your musical inspirations? A: Michael: I really like the fact that I can write down my feelings and other people can hear it. A: William: My family and friends are my biggest inspirations because I do it all for them. Q: What artists are your musical inspirations? A: Michael: Drake and T.I. A: William: Ludacris and Lil’ Wayne. Q: Do you plan on pursuing rapping as a career? A: Michael: I would love
to make it a career and I’m going to push my music as far as it can go; all in all, I just love to do it. I’m getting my education so I don’t have to rely on my music making me money. A: William: I don’t plan on making rapping my career one day. If someone offers me to get on a big label, I’ll take it. Q: Do you write your own lyrics? A: Michael: Yes, if someone else has to write your lyrics then you shouldn’t be rapping. It’s all about what you say. A: William: I write my own lyrics and I write almost everyday. My inspirations are my feelings and emotions.
22 December 2009
Rocking out in Grand Rapids
Catlyn Clark Reporter
BREATHE IN, BREATHE OUT Lead singer, David Schmitt, breathes out the last couple notes to the song “IDGAF.” [Photo by Catlyn Clark]
The lights dimmed and the people packed, body to body, closer to the stage, to get a better look at the five bands that played for four hours. On Nov. 10, Fight Fair, Kill Paradise and Stephen Jerzak took the stage at The Intersection to open up for the main bands, Cash Cash and Breathe Carolina. Each band rooted on their next act and thanked their audience for a great night. However, they were not done with the spotlight just yet. After their set, each member would roam around the smoky room for autographs, pictures and conversations with fans. When one of the main attractions, Breathe Carolina,
CUTE AS A BUTTON Acoustic singer, Stephen Jerzak, strums on his guitar, singing the song “Cute.” [Photo by Catlyn Clark]
took the stage, the crowd immediately got pumped up. The band’s style is electronic, rock and pop-like. The music contains an electric keyboard, drums and a guitar. The keyboard gets the crowd excited with its electronic sounds and fun beats. Cash Cash and Kill Paradise also use the electric keyboard for funky sounds. Breathe Carolina consists of two main vocalists; Kyle Even the lead singer, and David Schmitt the singer/screamer. “They’re both really nice,” freshman Brandi Broughton said. “Kyle is more hyped up, and David is more laid back.” Broughton has been to see these music men four times and talks to them every time. “It is crazy and bizarre. They always recognize me every time I go,” Broughton said. People may say that up on stage, the singers are quite intimidating, but offstage they are easygoing. They talk with fans and groupies about anything and most seem like they were there for the love of music. By the loudness of the fans’ screams, their enjoyment was to the maximum amount for the bands.
“Why am I such a misfit? I am not just a nit-wit. Just because my nose glows, seems I donʼt fit in.” -Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer
“
QUOTE–UNQUOTE
(Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer)
“
The Crystal 23
a&e
How to beat the winter blues
Bailey Broderick Feature Editor
When the cold winter months roll around, it seems like it gets harder and harder to crack a smile without it feeling a bit forced. It is actually very understandable; the below-freezing temperatures, the impossible driving conditions and the limited outdoor activities will eventually catch up to a person and take a toll on their day-to-day emotions. However, there is a way around this depressing dilemma. If hobbies and activities can be found to keep busy while still having fun, the cold contempt can be avoided altogether. Tips from www.forbes.com.
1
Stay warm
Be comfortable by staying warm while outside. Being outside in the sunlight will increase vitamin D intake, which is proven to increase happiness.
4 5 6
L ook arou nd
Keep eyes open for fun events happening locally. Get with friends and be creative, cook odd recipes, paint crazy pictures, etc.
2 3
Keep it bright
B e ignorant
Wearing bright colors such as yellow, orange and green will put one in a good mood, along with keeping lights on around the house.
Although ignoring life’s problems is not always best, being ignorant to petty rumors and gossip will allow one to calm themselves.
M ake ‘me’ time
Make sure to lay aside a decent amount of time to just relax and do the things that keep the environment happy.
Stay social
Hanging out with friends and staying in groups will bring more energy and liveliness to day-to-day activities.
Theater arts repeaters
Haley Burrill Reporter
Monologues, lip syncs, make up and improvisation. Lakeview High School’s theater arts class is a semester full of breaking out of one’s shell and entering into the performing arts world. Some may take the class to earn an art credit, but for others, it is for their love of expression. For senior Katie Ashbay, next semester will be her fifth time taking the class. What keeps calling the actress back is the experiences the class offers to her. “I was really shy the first time I took it during freshman
year, so it’s really fun for me to watch other people break out of their shells during the lip syncs or monologues we do,” Ashbay said. Taking this class also opens up the doors to new friendships and stepping outside of one’s comfort zone. Hanging out with students he usually would not is what senior Ryan Field would agree brings him back to the class. “One of the benefits of taking the class is how many new people you meet. I make a lot of friends in the class,” Field said. “It’s just a lot of fun to hang out with them in the class.”
Senior Mary Alderink has taken theater arts four times and keeps going back for her passion for acting. “When I was helping with the play, ‘Noises Off,’ I recognized how the actors/actresses had to be conscious of not only their lines but everyone else’s too. Theater arts has definitely helped me stay on my toes,” Alderink said. Theater arts teacher Ken Gordon encourages students who are thinking about taking it or are planning on repeating it, to sign up. “It’s a fun class that helps you get comfortable in your own skin,” Gordon said.
24 December 2009
Staffer’s choice: MOVIE
Throw on comfortable clothes, grab the tissues, a large drink and food because one will not want to get up during this movie. Not Easily Broken is a definite tear jerker that no one should miss, especially the drama lovers. Starring Morris Chestnut, as Dave, and Taraji P. Henson, as Clarice, the movie is a must see. The movie starts off as Dave and Clarice are exchanging their vows. The minister lays a cord over their shoulders while saying the blessing, “A threefold cord is not easily broken.” One piece represents Dave, one represents Clarice and the last piece represents God. He says that they must keep God in their marriage and he will help them through all of their struggles. Dave and Clarice quickly find themselves with a handful of problems within their marriage. Clarice is the money maker in the relationship, and Dave is struggling with his small construction company while he also coaches a little league baseball team. Dave discovers that he has different needs and desires in the marriage. Clarice refuses to have children because she is so involved in her career, when all Dave really wants is a child. Clarice tries to make all of the decisions in the marriage, which leaves Dave believing that his opinion does not matter. Clarice had an awards ceremony to go to one night, and Dave was late getting home. On the way there, they were fighting about him being late. They stopped paying attention to the road, and ended up getting in a car accident. Clarice was seriously injured, and this started Dave’s list of problems. Clarice’s mom then moves in with them to try and help Clarice. They both verbally attack Dave and blame the accident on him. No matter what he does, it is never good enough for Clarice or her mother. As Clarice and Dave drift apart, their marriage is put to the test. I can not explain much more without spoiling the movie, so I suggest that everyone see it. It will give each person a different outlook on life and how they treat the people they truly love.
Compiled by: Tori Jorgensen If you liked this, we also recommend --------------------------------------------
MOVIE
The Proposal
The Proposal also covers the love and drama effect. This is more of a comedy though. It’s not quite as serious, but it’s still good.
ALBUM
Unstoppable
Unstoppable by Rascal Flatts is great for any mood. All of the songs have many life lessons in them and catchy beats.
BOOK
Flipped
Flipped is an easy to follow book that many teens could be interested in. Short and sweet, it gets the point across.
Artists of the Month
Torres Jackson
Vanessa Danis
The Crystal 25
feature
Breaking the habit; NSN style
In light of No Shave November, students across the world are setting aside their razors.
Thoughout the past month many united for a common purpose, No Shave November. Students and adults alike broke old habits and refused to shave for a month, realizing what life was like not caring about what others thought about them. For some, the journey was a long one. One filled with itchy faces and stubbly legs. For the rest of the brave, the journey was anything but difficult; shallow peach fuzz was an easy concept for many to live with. No matter what the outcome of No Shave November ended up, all participants, whether newb or expert, learned something about themselves: it is not what is on the outside that truly matters, but rather one’s heart.
Compiled by: Loren Wright
Photos by: Amber Glomb
26 December 2009
Compulsions of the mind
Ph
oto
om Fr
:F
ree
e pix
co ls.
m
5 Things You Should Know About... Animals
1 attack a human being
or any other living orgasnism while it is in motion in the wild. An American Bald Eagle can kill a young baby deer, better known as a fawn, and fly away with it.
A vulture will never
Laceey Ruble News Editor
Someone answers the phone, they finish their conversation and hang up, then hang up again, and again and again. This is what life can be like for a person with an obsessive compulsive disorder. “I think that my door is unlocked even though I know I locked it. I have to go back five times to make sure the door is locked,” junior Chloe Sprague said. “I also worry that my car headlights are still on and always have to check.” People with OCD live with a constant obsession and develop a compulsion to get relief from it. A person may develop an obsession that the phone is not hung up, and to combat that, they will repeatedly hang up the phone. “I can’t explain why I do it, but I’m pretty sure I have OCD since it’s something I always have to do,” Sprague said. “I feel wrong when
I don’t check back enough times. It’s my routine and I won’t be able to move on to something else if I don’t go back to check.” In the United States, one in 50 adults have been diagnosed with OCD and even more have experienced it during their life. OCD is something many people face during their life because everyone’s mind works differently. “I always have to walk on the right side of people,” senior Alexa Lytle said. “There are a lot of little things I’m OCD about, but none of them affect my everyday life.” A lot of people have different opinions on how severe OCD can be. “I think a lot of people are like me and have a little OCD,” Lytle said. “I think for most people it’s not a big deal.” However, many think the contrary. “Sometimes I wonder what it’d be like not to think about the little things like locked doors. I wish I didn’t spend time thinking about these things,” Sprague said. Information provided by www.ocfoundation.org.
2
An octopus needs three hearts. One to pump blood through their exstensive vascular system and the other two to pump oxygen to their gills.
3
A North American Grizzly Bear can bite through a piece of steel that is an inch thick. conlony 5 All ants in aMale ants are female. only live long enough to mate. Female ants store the male elsewhere.
4
Connecting Dani Cavinder to Eric Giddings
Dani Cavinder
Nicole Corra, Brittany’s sister, has chemistry with Travis Moore 4th block.
Eric Giddings
Brittany Corra has second block choir class with Dani.
Compiled by: Haley Burrill
Travis Moore has trigonometry with Eric Giddings 1st block.
The Crystal 27
feature
Gift wrapping the perfect gift
Compiled by: Cierra Dixon Photos by: Amber Glomb Pull wrapping paper over gift and Face the gift down on the wrapping paper and fold one side. crease at edge. Leave extra wrap.
Gather up all wrapping paper, sissors, tape, bows, paper, etc.
Fold crease under, making sure the wrap lines up with the edge.
1 .
Fold corners inward to create a flap. Repeat folding on each end.
2.
Tape all folds. Add bows, cards, nametags, etc.
3.
4.
Brysen Reigner Reporter
5.
“I was in school when the principal sent all of us home. It was on the bus ride home when I realized the tragedy that had taken place,” sophomore Spencer Lahr said as he described the tragic events of Sept. 11. Another event that happened recently that shook the world was the death of Michael Jackson. “I was eating at Applebees when it [Michael Jackson’s death] had happened and it came on the TV,” English teacher Patricia Verette said as she reminisced the day that the notorious pop singer passed away. These are just a few of the memorable moments that most people will remember for the rest of their lives.
6.
Remembering the days
There are days in one’s life that will never be forgotten. Maybe it is the birth of a new family member or the first time a child rides their bike solo. There are also days you will remember because of tragedy and despair. One day that will always be instilled in the minds of Americans are the attacks on Sept. 11, 2001, when 19 terrorists took control of four airliners. America was in a state of shock after the unexpected attack. America had never seen such an attack with this kind of magnitude. There will always be moments that stay with one, whether it is out of despair or joy.
FEELING PATRIOTIC Sophomore Malachi Barrett shows off his patriotism by wrapping himself in the American Flag. Barrett’s father was in the military so he tends to show his patriotism often. [Photos provided by Malachi Barrett].
28 December 2009
Sweetwater’s Donut Mill: after hours
Story and photos by: Alexis Worthington
In the early morning of Sat. Nov. 7, between the hours of 1 a.m. and 4:30 a.m. to be exact, I observed the comings and goings of the people who frequent Sweetwater’s during what most would consider odd hours.
Name(s): Naine Tahyar and Bondie Marenko Occupation: Retired Favorite donut(s): “We both like glazed because they are fresh when we get here. They are still warm as we eat them,” Marenko said. Time arrived: 1:55 a.m. Time left: 2:52 a.m. Why are you here? “We come here after four hours of dancing for a sweet treat. We excercise to lose weight, then come here to eat all the weight back,” Marenko said. How often do you two come at this time? “We come here every Friday night,” Tahyar said. How do you know each other?: “We are friends,” Tahyar said.
Name(s): Ron and Zack Occupation: Rite Aid, full-time student/Denso Favorite donut(s): New York Cheesecake/Caramel Apple Time arrived: 3:25 a.m. Time left: 3:39 a.m. Why are you here? “It’s a Friday night, what else is there to do in Battle Creek?” Ron said. How often do you two come at this time? “I don’t come her often, maybe once every two months,” Ron said. “I come here even less than Ron, maybe every six months,” Zack said. How do you know each other? “We went to Battle Creek Central high school together,” Ron said.
Name: Daryel Occupation: Baker at Sweetwater’s Donut Mill Favorite donut: New York Cheesecake Time there: 3rd shift How long have you worked here? I’ve been working at Sweetwater’s for about ten years,” Daryel said. Do you like working here at this time? “I love working 3rd shift because of family life. I get to spend a lot more time with them because I work when they are sleeping so I can be with them during the day,” Daryel said.
The Crystal 29
feature
What inspires you...
Haley Pengelly the dancer.
“Music inspires me to feel different emotions and want to reflect that with a new dance,” sophomore Haley Pengelly said.
Heather Briggs the designer.
“Nature inspires me to create fashion designs, I like the colors and shapes and I like to try and fit the patterns and things together,” junior Heather Briggs said.
Jon Page the artist.
“Psychology inspires me as a drawer, basically the origin of subconscious thought. I feel like the brain is trying to tell us something everyday and I feel it’s up to us to figure it out,” senior Jon Page said.
Nancy Huynh the Biologist.
“I get inspired by the human body and by looking through my biology book; I just think the cells are pretty,” senior Nancy Huynh said.
Compiled by: Morgan Worthington Photos by: Amber Glomb
30 December 2009
Compiled by: Kaleigh Walters
Senior David Almeida-Arrieta drives an orange, 2008 Dodge Avenger that his parents bought for him nearly three months ago. Not only is it an appealing car but it also has a good stereo system inside. But the ride of the car is the best part. “It has comfortable seating and a pretty smooth ride,” Almeida-Arrieta said. “It also saves on gas money I guess.” Overall, Almeida-Arrieta has one of the most spiffy cars you’ll see in Lakeview High Schools parking lot. Senior Shelbi Clements owns and drives a black, 1998 Volkswagen Golf. It has reached the maximum speed of 120 mph even if it’s junky. “It’s missing two hub caps,” Clements said. “[There is also] a pretty big dent on the side [of my car] from when an old lady hit me before.” Clements got her car about a year and a half ago for only 3,000 dollars. Her friends tell her that they can hear her coming down the street because of her noisy Volkswagen.
The Crystal 31
Photos by Kaleigh Walters
Beauty
and the
Beas t
tradition
“Tradition is the illusion of permanence.”
-Woody Allen
Photo by: Tess Haadsma
THE
Lakeview High School, November 2009, Volume 72, Issue 2
CRYSTAL
THE
Superintendent.Cindy Ruble Principal.Chris Doyle Assistant Principal.Mike Norstrom Assistant Principal.Marty Pessetti Adviser.Jodi Darland Editor-in-Chief.Tess Haadsma Assistant Editor.Loren Wright Business Manager.Jaileigh Burdette News Editor.Laceey Ruble Opinion Editor.Christian Grandorf A&E Editor.Alexis Worthington Sports Editor.Tori Jorgensen Feature Editor.Bailey Broderick Photographer.Katie Eberhard Photographer.Amber Glomb Reporter.Haley Burrill Reporter.Catlyn Clark Reporter.Cierra Dixon Reporter.Karli Kipp Reporter.Emilie Lussier Reporter.Reggie Matthews Reporter.Brysen Reigner Reporter.Kellie Riter Reporter.Kaleigh Walters Reporter.Morgan Worthington
Editorial Policy
The Crystal is a student publication distributed free of charge to all Lakeview High School students and staff with a total press run of 1300. The publication serves as a limited open forum for expression and a two way communication for both the school and community. The editor-in-chief with adviser input is responsible for the content. Opinions expressed in the magazine are not necessarily those of the staff or the administration of Lakeview High School. Editors and reporters will make every effort to provide balanced and fair coverage of the news and its significance. Businesses are encouraged to advertise in the Crystal when their ads adhere to the specified guidelines available in the publications room. Members of the Crystal staff can be contacted by calling the publications room phone at 269565-3731 or e-mailing at [email protected]. The Crystal is printed by Gage Company, 220 Buckner Road, Battle Creek, Michigan 49015. The Crystal is a member of the Michigan Interscholastic Press Association, Journalism Education Association and Quill and Scroll. The 2004–2005 and 2005-2006 Crystal received a MIPA Spartan award.
Lakeview High School 15060 S. Helmer Road Battle Creek, MI 49015 lakeviewspartans.org November 2009 Volume 72, Issue 2
2 December 2009
table of contents
Photo by Tess Haadsma
Dear Readers,
On The Cover: Students discuss their most meaningful frendships. Story on pages 16-19
Holiday season. As quickly as it arrives, and despite the whirlwhind of excitement it creates, it will soon be gone before we know it. The Christmas lights will be taken down, the trees set out at the curb, and with it, our idealistic views and upbeat spirits. Reality sets back in. There are bills to pay, jobs to return to. Money to be made, family to tend to. Papers to be written, big games to win. No matter our situation, the feeling is still the same. A feeling of emptiness, almost. A feeling that, despite all that fills us with happiness, warmth and hope throughout that month of December, leaves us cold and lost come January. Like we are caught in a vicious cycle. A rinse and repeat, year after year. Always the same feelings, no matter the situation. So this year, challenge yourself to make a change. Don’t let January get the best of you. Keep a little bit of that Holiday cheer with you for the rest of this coming year. Break if out when you need it most, as a reminder that there is alwayas hope. And yes, maybe life is a rinse and repeat cycle, a movie on repeat. But let that be the proof that shows that we will all make it through even the toughest of times.
news.................................4-7 sports..............................8-11 opinion.........................12-15 centerspread...............16-19 a&e...............................20-25 feature..........................26-32
need to get ahold of us?
Feel free to send letters to the editor, corrections, or mail of any sort to us at [email protected] or just drop them off in the publications room, Room A102 with Adviser Jodi Darland or Editor-in-Cheif Tess Haadsma.
contents
table of
Cover photo by Tess Haadsma, edited by Katie Eberhard
-Editor-in-Chief Tess Haadsma
The Crystal 3
news
Stop spending so much cash
Target
Compiled by: Catlyn Clark
Layout by: Laceey Ruble It is known for its white dog with the red target over its eye. Their clothes are name-brandbut cheap, so one will not have to break their budget for something inexpensive, cute and formfitting. COAT $20.00
My Style, Your Style
A consignment store, but much more than that. Somewhat like Goodwill and Salvation Army, but a bit more trendier for some people’s taste. “It is kind of old lady-ish, but I always go right to the purses,” sophomore Izzy Maier said. SCARF $1.00
Ebay
Anything anyone could need is available on this huge progressing site. From electronics to clothes to accessories to workout equipment. “I definitely go [to Ebay] for the cutest clothes,” Maier said. RING $5.00
Salvation Army
Salvation Army may be the home for used clothes, but used clothes can be good looking and in nice shape. “I usually go [to Salvation Army] to get clothes and have my mom alter them,” freshman Payton Moore said.
Photo by: Ruggie Matthews
BOOTS $7.00
4 December 2009
Surpassing the Swine craze
H1N1 leaves fear in its wake as it shuts down schools across Michigan
Kellie Rter Reporter
Dry coughing, sneezing, chills, a fever - these used to be the symptoms of the usually harmless seasonal influenza virus. This year, the usual strain of the illness has taken a backseat to the ominous H1N1 virus. Better known to most as Swine Flu, the new strain has been sweeping the nation like an all-the-rage phenomenon, but with far fewer fans. It is no secret that the villainous virus’ favorite pastime is closing down schools and events and causing mayhem among the general public. President Obama declared the highly contagious virus a national epidemic, so it may seem as though there is no escape from the doom that supposedly awaits. But is that true? Not neccesarily. Health experts have stated that H1N1 is no worse than the regular flu, and that the only reason people react so fearfully to it is that humans are not yet immune. The same fears were widespread during the scares of MRSA, Bird Flu, and other fad diseases that the world has endured over the years. Swine Flu is certainly not the first plague to descend on humanity. There are vaccines against H1N1, and anyone can get them with an appointment and a small fee. The key to recovery is detecting the virus in plenty of time, which can easily be done by visiting a doctor at the first sign of flulike symptoms. Junior Travis Keathley does not see the symptoms of Swine in his future.
“I’m not afraid of catching Swine, because I had a friend that had it and I didn’t catch it from him,” Keathley said. One theory is that it will become less of an issue during the winter, as the cold kills germs and keeps people in their homes. But the other side of the coin suggests that the worst is yet to come, since the traditional flu season is far from being over. Senior Jesse Cowles is staying fairly optimistic about the outbreak. “I’m hoping it’s gonna improve, because it’s been shown that it’s less deadly than the regular flu,” Cowles said. “I don’t see why everybody’s so hyped up about it.” Foreign Language teacher Erin Ormsby had the misfortune of catching H1N1 in October. Now with a clean bill of health, Ormsby says that Swine Flu should be no cause for panic. “It’s not as scary as people think,” Ormsby said. “It was
actually milder than any seasonal flu I’ve had.” As for the controversy over LHS staying open when so many other area schools were closing their doors, Principal Chris Doyle says that the school was not nearly as close to the required percentage as students thought it was. “It had to be a threshold of 30 percent. The highest we got was 26.1 percent,” Doyle said. In addition to closely watching attendance, the staff also installed hand sanitizer dispensers and puts special effort into thoroughly cleaning the building on a more regular basis. Other precautions include having a nurse at school to check students and re-scheduling November’s Academic Recognition assembly. So what can students do to help themselves this flu season? Wash hands, know the symptoms, and most of all, do not panic. Swine is not quite the apocalypse people have made it out to be.
To note
Students of the month
For September : Cody Sanders (art) Cortney Pipher (business) Elaina Elizondo (communications) Alexis Lee (drama) Myana Mouton (English) Sarah Ploehn (family consumer science) Courtney Volstromer (independant study) Adrian Williams (mathematics) Mallory Coleman (music) Anthony Lemmons (physical education) Quinn Skalka (science) Kylie Cumback (social studies) Ryan Pein (technology) Haley Shanks (world language) Daniel Rickmar (Math and Science Center) Sarah Ploehn (CACC)
December 8, The LHS choirs will be having their winter concert at the St. Thomas Church downtown located across from St. Phil.
FACING THE FACTS:
•Symptoms of Swine Flu include fever, cough, head and body aches, chills, sore throat, runny/stuffy nose and severe fatigue. •Of the 36,000 estimated flu deaths in the U.S. each year, only about 4,000 deaths were caused by Swine Flu in 2009. (See chart)
December 12, The Black and White Affair dance will be taking place in the LHS cafe. Tickets are cost $10 each at the door.
SEASONAL H1N1
Only Approximately ten percent of this year’s flu-related deaths have been caused by H1N1.
December 23, Winter Break starts and will continue through Jan. 4. It will be a good time to kick back and relax with friends and family.
The Crystal 5
news
Photo by: Karli Kipp
Above average absences
Christian Grandorf Opinion Editor
With every school year comes new rules and policies. This school year, the administration took on absences, tardies and discipline. Following a year of above average discipline, the administration sat down and decided that something had
to be done. Along came the infamous and often misunderstood seven absence rule. “We [the administration] decided to connect white cards to absences, referrals and tardies,” Principal Chris Doyle said. After cracking down on discipline, something had to be done. The new rules limit students to seven absences,
The Trouble Stops Here
After discipline, absences and tardies were tied to the white card, numbers dropped drastically. Unexcused absences October 2008 October 2009 131 9 Tardies 84 66 Referrals 425 209
zero unexcused absences and zero referrals. After a single criteria is broken, students will lose their white card. This is the point that students get confused, however. “After ten absences, we will have an audit with the student, meaning that we will sit down with the student and their parents, and determine whether or not the absences were truly excused or not,” Doyle said. The problem was that students were having their parents call in, automatically assuming that they were excused. “Students would, for example, forget that they had a paper due and have their mom call them in sick. This year, we’re taking a harder look at cases like that to determine whether or not the student was honestly sick, or if they didn’t want to write the paper,” Doyle said. The results are stunning.
“Last year, there were as many as 30 to 35 students signing in late every morning, now it’s 10 or 15 at the most,” hall monitor/ coordinator Tom Striffler said. Also introduced were attendance letters. At four, seven and ten absences, letters are mailed home informing parents and students of the absences. “I really think the letters are helping. I’m getting far fewer calls in the morning and during the day. It’s defiantly a noticeable change,” secretary Joy Miller said. Unexcused absences are also falling gradually with the new rules. “There are a lot less unexcused absences every day than previous years,” Miller said. Despite the apparent confusion, the new rules are working. Students are setting record lows this year, rather than the record highs set last school year.
6 December 2009
Photo by: Karli Kipp
Get involved locally
NHS and KEY Club volunteer to help out with many activities throughout the holiday season NHS KEY Club
Community Inclusive Recreation Holiday Event: Dec. 8, 5:30 - 8:30 p.m. Salvation Army Bell Ringing: Dec. 5 at Lakeview Square Mall Ushering for BC Symphony: Dec. 19, 6:00 p.m. Candygrams: Dec. 14-17; deliver Dec.18
Compiled by: Loren Wright
Toys for Tots: Box in the office Macy’s Letters: Write letters on Dec. 11
For more information about these Holiday events contact either Media Specialist Margaret Lincoln or KEY Club president Lori Rombaugh.
The Crystal 7
sports
Quidditch: The real team of the imaginary sport
Tess Haadsma Editor-in-Chief
Before 1998, the sport of Quidditch did not exist. Even today, its existence is questioned by some. Originally invented by author J.K. Rowling as a sport in the popular Harry Potter books, and now movies, Quidditch was, essentially, an imaginary sport. It is impossible to play in real life due to its heavy reliance on magic such as flying broomsticks and the flying snitch. As Lakeview High School’s Dumbledore’s Army has been taking shape, though, members have found a way to make the fantastical sport into something just as real as the words in this story. The main difference between the sport in the books and movies and the sport played by LHS’s Dumbledore’s Army is the lack of flying broomsticks. Instead, players simply use their legs to run on the ground and carry their brooms, as opposed to flying
QUIDDITCH CREW The quidditch team stops to pose for a picture at their first practice. At this practice, the team did not quite make it onto the field, but decorated brooms for the next practice.
amidst the clouds. The snitch is also not an object, but a person who runs during the game, as it is their goal to not be caught. Junior Jessica Wonderly is a member of the team, and explains how it is different in real life. “We use hula hoops and
decorate brooms and run with them. We use rubber play balls and try to throw them, they’re like the quaffles,” Wonderly said. Wonderly loves being a part of the team. “It’s something to do and it’s just fun because you can hang out and be goofy,” Wonderly said.
For more information on LHS’s Quidditch team or how to join LHS’s newest club, Dumbledore’s Army, contact sophomores Haley Burrill and Laura Keller.
A spare moment with the
bo wl i n g t e a m
“Our entire girls’ varsity team will be returning except for one girl,” senior Joanna Arnold said. “We lost a few seniors and we got some new people, so our season should be pretty good,” junior Michael Lynn said.
The 2008-2009 bowling team had a great season. They sent Torrey Hutchison and Joanna Arnold to state for singles. Besides Hutchison and Arnold, the girls’ team went to state for the first time in Lakeview’s bowling history. This year they will have a tough act to follow, but they feel they can have a better season. Compiled by: Tori Jorgensen
STRIKE The 2009-2010 bowling team hosted their try-outs on November 16th at Nottkes bowling alley. They are expecting to have a great season with many talented bowlers. [Photo by: Loren Wright]
8 December 2009
Photo provided by: Haley Burrill
Comparison between hunting with bow and arrow or guns. Bow and Arrow
• Wear camouflage clothing • Deer must be closer • Sit in tree stands • Deer archery season • It is necessary to have an archery hunting license • Illegal to carry a firearm along while bow hunting
Information only based on deer hunting
Drawn back, safety off
Guns
• Wear hunter orange clothing • Shoot deer further away • Sit in enclosed blinds • Deer firearm season • It is necessary to have a firearm hunting license • Illegal to carry a bow along while hunting with a firearm
Compiled by: Tori Jorgensen
The Crystal 9
sports
Stealing the...
Compiled by: Bailey Broderick
• What sport do you play? Soccer • How long have you been playing? 11 Years • What’s your favorite aspect of the sport? Playing in the games and being with friends. • Do you plan on playing in college? Why? It is a lot of fun so he would play in college if the opportunity presented itself.
Matt Herbers
JUGGLING SPORTS Senior Nicole Bentz juggles a soccer ball with ultimate skill and grace. [Photo by: Amber Glomb Edited by: Katie Eberhard]
Nicole Bentz
• What sport do you play? Basketball and soccer • How long have you been playing? Basketball-Six years Soccer-12 years • What’s your favorite aspect of the sports? The competition. • Do you plan on playing in college? Why? Yes, hoping to play soccer because it is something she’s always wanted to do.
QUICK SAVE Junior Matt Herbers calmly poses with a soccer ball, expressing his enthusiasm for the sport. [Photo by: Amber Glomb Edited by: Katie Eberhard]
...Spotlight
10 December 2009
Showing off their strength
Current Lakeview High School students voice their opinions about getting on the weight room record board multiple times. “I did competitive power-lift“My dad said he would pay me $200 to take the class again so I could try and beat the top record for bench press; I was like 15lbs away from it. I didn’t want to do that though because I had already taken it twice and wanted room in my schedule to take other classes,” senior Rikki Perry said. ing through another school for a while. I ended up going to a state competition for it and placed fourth overall. I lifted just for fun, to stay in shape for other sports I played at the time. As for weightlifting during class, I didn’t think that I would place high on the board... I just wanted to be on there at least once,” senior Sallie Pennock said.
1. 2.
3.
1. Rikki Perry Bench press- 130 lbs 3. John Ayres Towel bench- 130 lbs Bench press- 305 lbs Squat- 460 lbs 2. Sallie Pennock Power clean- 250 lbs Bench press- 125 lbs Box squat- 580 lbs Squat- 195 lbs Dead lift- 500 lbs Power clean- 135 lbs Dead lift- 310 lbs
“I’m really dedicated to the weightroom; I lift a lot. I’m in there about five times a week from anywhere between an hour to an hour and a half,” senior John Ayres said.
Compiled by: Alexis Worthington Photos by: Amber Glomb
The Crystal 11
opinion
CRYSTAL POINT
One Staff One Opinion
Walking past a classroom to find a student’s eyes glazing over and their attention fading away during a lesson is not uncommon at Lakeview High School. Stressed, fatigued kids come to school every day after a long night of homework, sports or just down time to themselves. Giving the students here at LHS a recess, study hall or just a little bit more time for lunch could lessen the number of students falling asleep in classes and increase the amount of students paying attention to lessons. If the students are given a recess to take a short nap, talk amongst their friends or even go to their teachers for extra help with their work, it would be beneficial. In our younger years of school, we received short breaks in our day to get all of our built up energy out or to restart our systems to keep us alert. It seems that if we got that back, for even twenty minutes, we would rejuvinate our brains. It would take some of the strain away from school, sports, extra curriculars, home life and all the other tension we bog ourselves down with. If the administration gave us a short break to loosen up and clear our minds, students would stay awake during class and focus more.
Photo by: Reggie Matthews and Kaleigh Walters
12 December 2009
Remember: It is the season of giving, not the season of receiving
By Laceey Ruble
during a time when Michigan’s unemployment rate People often say the holiday season is their favorite time of year. And for many it is because they has risen. Help those who can not celebrate this season by donating to food banks. are showered with gifts. But one should remember that the basis of the holiday season is being thankAlbert Einstein once said, “It is every man’s obligation to put back into the world at least the equivful and giving to those you are closest to. alent of what he takes out The holiday season is a time of it.” to celebrate family and friends. It is in the best interest Having people who love and care for you is the best present of everyone to strive toEveryone should make it their anyone could receive. wards giving just as much mission during this time of year You should make it your misas you receive. to bring a smile to as many faces sion during this time of year to Being a giver not only as possible. bring a smile to as many faces helps out those around - Laceey Ruble as possible. you, but it will make you Spread joy throughout our a better person, one who school by giving small gifts will appreciate all that to anyone who has touched your life in some way. is given to them. You’ll be able to help the world Something as small as a heart-felt card can make through giving back to it. someone’s bad day fade away. The holiday season is also a time to become Many people cannot say that they have not closer to those with whom you are already close. received a present in the holiday season. However, Give the gift of giving and everyone you touch will some people do not have enough money, especially feel the purpose of the holiday season.
“
”
THE SAGA OF JEFF
By: Kellie Riter
The Crystal 13
opinion DIVERSEVIEWPOINTS
Should holiday activities be renamed to be politically correct?
Being holiday-specific may offend other religions
Make no mistake, there is nothing wrong with celebrating Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa or any other religion-specific holiday during the highly anticipated vacation that is winter break. But for students who do not celebrate certain holidays, it can make them feel uncomfortable or ostracized if every event happening around them is named after a holiday in which they do not participate. KELLIE RITER Tolerance is a pretty big deal around Lakeview High School. As students, we try to keep an open mind when it comes to sexuality, race and other commonly disputed issues, so why does that not that always extend to students’ beliefs? Imagine being a devout follower of a specific religion, if you are not already. Now imagine that everywhere you go, there are events, decorations, signs and commercials, all boasting an unfamiliar holiday. Things like that can make people feel left out of something that everyone around them seems to be in on. And that is never a pleasant feeling. Lakeview has already taken the first steps toward being friendly to all denominations, starting with changing the name of the old Christmas break to winter break. But there is still a lot to be done to make the student body, not to mention the community of Battle Creek, more accepting as a whole.
It forces people to throw away their beliefs
Every year it seems that we can say less and less during the holiday season. We are no longer supposed to greet others with “Merry Christmas,” but rather “Happy Holidays.” To me, this seems like a push for conformity. It is expected that students disregard whatever holiday they choose to celebrate and intertwine other beliefs. Living in a country encouraging diversity, I CHRISTIAN GRANDORF feel as if holiday correctness goes against the foundation of America. As kids, we are taught to accept others, regardeless of race, gender, religion, etc. If I say “Merry Christmas” to someone, I am not trying to force my beliefs onto them, I am just wishing them a Merry Christmas. In contrast, if someone was to wish me a Happy Hannukah, I would not be offended either. Our constant fear of offending anyone is being pushed to rediculous limits. At some point, people are going to be ashamed of the holiday they choose to celebrate due to a deep fear of offending someone. This holiday season, I encourage everyone to let the holiday you celebrate be known. Be proud of yourself, and greet people with a Merry Christmas, Happy Hannukah or a Happy Kwanzaa. Do not shy away from your beliefs for fear of offending somebody. I encourage everyone to accept others and their beliefs, and express yourself.
YES NO
Your Turn
“I think people get the point of it no matter what it’s called, so its fine the way it is.” “No, because Christmas is the most celebrated holiday and a majority of people celebrate it anyways.”
–AMELIA KOZARSKI, JUNIOR
–DAVIS MULDER, SENIOR
“No, I don’t think 14 December 2009 so because most of
our life we’ve associated certain activities with holidays like Christmas and Easter.”
“No, because I think that usually the activities are specifically surrounding a certain holiday, so it’s okay.”
–NICK WALKER, FRESHMAN
–SHELBY HOLDERNESS, SOPHOMORE
14 December 2009
Intro takes on opinion
A student’s definition of “getting into trouble” varies from person to person, but no matter the definition, I believe students do not get into as much trouble in the winter. In the winter, students do not have as much time to do things as in the summer. A typical winter day consists of mostly school and either a sports team practice or other extra curricular activity, where our behavior is monitored and decides whether or not we get to participate. In the summer, students are allowed more freedom. We can do whatever we want for the majority of the day, allowing plenty of time for students to get into trouble. We also have all seven days of the week, instead of just the two-day weekend we have available in the winter. In the winter, driving conditions cause students to be cautious when they go out on the roads. Some may decide that they do not want to go out and risk the chance of getting in an accident. So instead of partying that night, they may decide that it is best to pop in a movie and just relax at home. It is more convenient for students to cause trouble in the summer than it is in the winter.
Signed, Laura Keller
Intro to Journalism
The Crystal 15
Family and friends last forever
Despite their genetic connection, family members may possess a variety of characteristics. And although family members often spend a lot of time together, they can seem worlds apart. Through the roots of the family tree, Lakeview’s “family members” provide us an insight as to what their families are like. Continue on to pg. 18 to read more
centerspread
The Aunt: The Sister: “My aunt The Brother: The Cousin: “My sister and I like and my mom “My brother and I play “My cousin making videos and stuff always hang video games together a lot,” on the computer imitating out together so Grace and junior Ashton Lowe The Mother: The Office,” freshman I see her quite I feed each said. “My mom and I Andrea Auton said. a bit, plus she other ice fight all the time, but I’m cream....Well.. lives close,” closer to her more than we did once,” sophomore anybody,” sophomore sophomore Chelsea Cory Gray said. Abbey Kazlauskas Labrecque said. said. The Dad: The Daughter: “My dad went to LSU and “My daughter shakes that’s the team who won her booty,” math the National title,” senior teacher Jeremy Chelcie Eaton said. “I Schuitman said. play softball and he’s “If we’re like, the one who taught me ‘Kenzie, let’s how to play, and I’m dance,’ I’ll put that going to get a scholarship Jay-Z track in, Lil’ because of him.” Wayne or Outcast and she’ll shake The Uncle: it. Oh, and she “My uncle Eric used to can do that stanky leg.” dance,” senior Maura McGlynn said.“He’s really The Grandpa: good; he went to Juilliard on a scholarship. “I always play checkers with my grandpa,” Now he’s teaching at a school and is doing a freshman Carolyn Brown said. Shakespeare show in Boston.” The Grandma: “My grandma’s the best, she taught me how Compiled and Illustrated by: Morgan Worthington to cook,” senior Nick Tuttle said.
The
student family tree
TAG...
life
Someone who changed your
BROTHER
UNBIOLOGICAL
your
good music
who likes
Someone
Someone who will
always make you
Compiled by: Loren Wright
Susie Schneider Kyle Bowens Rondrell Porter John Evankovich - Ally Keithley - Katelyn Williams - Grant Roberts - Mac Binger
LOL
18 December 2009
Piecing together the ‘perfect’ friend
“They have to always be there. If I’m having a hard time, they should always make me feel better,” sophomore Emily Furuichi said. “The best trait a friend can have is loyalty. They always have to have your back,” senior Zack Dopp said.
“The best trait my friends have to have is responsibility,” junior Connor Pierce said about his friends Alex Richards and Brett Powell. “If I’m having a bad day, my friends have to make me laugh,” freshman Sydney Bicknell said.
Compiled by: Cierra Dixon Photos by: Amber Glomb
STEREOTYPE me
Compiled by: Bailey Broderick
Kyle Bowens
Four Lakeview students stereotype themselves into four common categories.
Ashley Schwartz
The Slacker
T he Jo ck
Example: Steve Yzerman (Former Red Wing star) Why: “I am always playing sports, all year around. [I have played] baseball, football, track, hockey and wrestling.”
Bryan Evans Example: Katt Williams (Comedian) Why: “It’s my fifth year here [high school]. I goofed around my freshman year and didn’t ever do anything.”
T he Princess
Example: Princess Jasmine (Aladdin) Why: “Because I am one. I have princess everything [backpack, shower curtain, comforter and headband.]”
Photos by: Katie Eberhard and Reggie Matthews
The Rocker
Morgan Ramon Example: Ben Harper (Solo guitar player) Why: “Generally I play [rock] music. [I play guitar, bass and keyboard]. It just makes more sense musically.”
The Crystal 19
a&e
The 2009 Black and White Affair
Cierra Dixon Reporter
The Black and White Affair is the one dance during the winter season where students are asked to wear black and white. Everyone adds their own sense of style to their ensemble to make it unique. Unlike past years, Lakeview’s own dance team will be organizing the event. The team plans on snazzing up the decorations and making sure the music is just right. Leah Brady, head coach for the team, is helping to reassure that the dance will run smoothly. “The girls are going to make sure the DJ has a good play list with only the best music,” Brady said. The dance team is going to be taking music requests from the student body the week before the dance, which is on Sat. Dec. 12. All requests are to be written down on a sheet located in the office. The team is used to organizing the homecoming dance, but said they are excited to take on the task of the Black and White Affair. They plan on making this year’s dance bigger and better
than ever. “It’s going to be a fun dance, and we think everyone will like it,” senior captain Natalie McHale said. “Everyone should plan on going.”
The dance will be held in the high school cafeteria from 9-12 p.m. The tickets will be sold for $10 per person or $15 per couple, when bought at lunch. All tickets are $10 per
person at the door. “I’m excited about the students being able to have a good time, hanging out and being safe, and in a supervised environment,” Brady said.
DELICIOUS DECORATIONS The girls of the Lakeview High School dance team come together hoping to make this year’s Black & White Affair the best it has ever been. The decorations are going to possibly include an arch of balloons which will welcome one into the cafeteria where the dance will be held. [Photo by: ]
Saving money during dances
Girls:
• Wear a friend’s dress • Look at thrift shops and local businesses for dresses • Do your own hair • Do your own make-up • Reuse shoes • Reuse jewelry
Guys:
• Trade ties with friends • Look at TJ Maxx, Meijer, Target for cheaper priced ties • Have the group over for dinner • Look for classy, yet less expensive corsages • Reuse pants, shoes and shirts
20 December 2009
FROM BAGS TO BOTTOMS
The snow might be falling and friends may be calling, but the big question is what is one to wear on such chilly winter days? In past years, some winter trends have been rather unrealistic considering Michigan’s average windchill, but, this year it is all about warmth. Take, for example, the latest trend of oversized sweaters. They are sure to keep one warm and can usually be found quite cheaply at a used clothing store or even one’s parent’s closet. Also taking the fashion world by storm are motorcycle jackets and warm leather coats, in dark colors. What goes nicely with a motorcycle jacket is a pair of black skinny-jeans, versatile and chic all at once. Not to mention easy to find and even easier to purchase at stores like Forever 21 or Wet Seal for less than $30. As for accessories, across the body satchels, beret hats and studded barrettes are in style, in addition to simple shoes, such as Oxford shoes or classic Keds. All things considered, the trend this winter seems to be keeping warm, so bundle up and prepare for snow-filled adventure.
satchels
beret hat
ters wea ds rsize
black skinny jeans
ove
bejewled bobbies
HOTTEST
TRENDS
THIS WINTER’S
Compiled by: Tess Haadsma Photos by: Katie Eberhard
Oxford
shoes
motorcycle jackets
The Crystal 21
a&e
Twin rappers: ‘We Got ’Um’
Freshmen Michael and William Pickowitz pursue their rapping dream.
Brysen Reigner Reporter
Freshmen Michael and William Pickowitz sat down
for an interview to talk about how they got started rapping and how it has progressed since they first began.
Q & A with Double Trouble Q: How did you get started? A: M&W: We’ve been writing and met ‘Black Buddha’ and he wanted to rap with us. Q: How long ago did you start rapping? A: Michael: It was about a year ago when we started writing lyrics. A: William: I took a poetry class a couple years ago and I wanted to transfer it into raps. Q: What are you working on right now? A: Michael: We’re working on
a more upbeat and chill song.” A: William: “We’re trying to do a song that is less in your face. Q: Who/what are your musical inspirations? A: Michael: I really like the fact that I can write down my feelings and other people can hear it. A: William: My family and friends are my biggest inspirations because I do it all for them. Q: What artists are your musical inspirations? A: Michael: Drake and T.I. A: William: Ludacris and Lil’ Wayne. Q: Do you plan on pursuing rapping as a career? A: Michael: I would love
to make it a career and I’m going to push my music as far as it can go; all in all, I just love to do it. I’m getting my education so I don’t have to rely on my music making me money. A: William: I don’t plan on making rapping my career one day. If someone offers me to get on a big label, I’ll take it. Q: Do you write your own lyrics? A: Michael: Yes, if someone else has to write your lyrics then you shouldn’t be rapping. It’s all about what you say. A: William: I write my own lyrics and I write almost everyday. My inspirations are my feelings and emotions.
22 December 2009
Rocking out in Grand Rapids
Catlyn Clark Reporter
BREATHE IN, BREATHE OUT Lead singer, David Schmitt, breathes out the last couple notes to the song “IDGAF.” [Photo by Catlyn Clark]
The lights dimmed and the people packed, body to body, closer to the stage, to get a better look at the five bands that played for four hours. On Nov. 10, Fight Fair, Kill Paradise and Stephen Jerzak took the stage at The Intersection to open up for the main bands, Cash Cash and Breathe Carolina. Each band rooted on their next act and thanked their audience for a great night. However, they were not done with the spotlight just yet. After their set, each member would roam around the smoky room for autographs, pictures and conversations with fans. When one of the main attractions, Breathe Carolina,
CUTE AS A BUTTON Acoustic singer, Stephen Jerzak, strums on his guitar, singing the song “Cute.” [Photo by Catlyn Clark]
took the stage, the crowd immediately got pumped up. The band’s style is electronic, rock and pop-like. The music contains an electric keyboard, drums and a guitar. The keyboard gets the crowd excited with its electronic sounds and fun beats. Cash Cash and Kill Paradise also use the electric keyboard for funky sounds. Breathe Carolina consists of two main vocalists; Kyle Even the lead singer, and David Schmitt the singer/screamer. “They’re both really nice,” freshman Brandi Broughton said. “Kyle is more hyped up, and David is more laid back.” Broughton has been to see these music men four times and talks to them every time. “It is crazy and bizarre. They always recognize me every time I go,” Broughton said. People may say that up on stage, the singers are quite intimidating, but offstage they are easygoing. They talk with fans and groupies about anything and most seem like they were there for the love of music. By the loudness of the fans’ screams, their enjoyment was to the maximum amount for the bands.
“Why am I such a misfit? I am not just a nit-wit. Just because my nose glows, seems I donʼt fit in.” -Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer
“
QUOTE–UNQUOTE
(Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer)
“
The Crystal 23
a&e
How to beat the winter blues
Bailey Broderick Feature Editor
When the cold winter months roll around, it seems like it gets harder and harder to crack a smile without it feeling a bit forced. It is actually very understandable; the below-freezing temperatures, the impossible driving conditions and the limited outdoor activities will eventually catch up to a person and take a toll on their day-to-day emotions. However, there is a way around this depressing dilemma. If hobbies and activities can be found to keep busy while still having fun, the cold contempt can be avoided altogether. Tips from www.forbes.com.
1
Stay warm
Be comfortable by staying warm while outside. Being outside in the sunlight will increase vitamin D intake, which is proven to increase happiness.
4 5 6
L ook arou nd
Keep eyes open for fun events happening locally. Get with friends and be creative, cook odd recipes, paint crazy pictures, etc.
2 3
Keep it bright
B e ignorant
Wearing bright colors such as yellow, orange and green will put one in a good mood, along with keeping lights on around the house.
Although ignoring life’s problems is not always best, being ignorant to petty rumors and gossip will allow one to calm themselves.
M ake ‘me’ time
Make sure to lay aside a decent amount of time to just relax and do the things that keep the environment happy.
Stay social
Hanging out with friends and staying in groups will bring more energy and liveliness to day-to-day activities.
Theater arts repeaters
Haley Burrill Reporter
Monologues, lip syncs, make up and improvisation. Lakeview High School’s theater arts class is a semester full of breaking out of one’s shell and entering into the performing arts world. Some may take the class to earn an art credit, but for others, it is for their love of expression. For senior Katie Ashbay, next semester will be her fifth time taking the class. What keeps calling the actress back is the experiences the class offers to her. “I was really shy the first time I took it during freshman
year, so it’s really fun for me to watch other people break out of their shells during the lip syncs or monologues we do,” Ashbay said. Taking this class also opens up the doors to new friendships and stepping outside of one’s comfort zone. Hanging out with students he usually would not is what senior Ryan Field would agree brings him back to the class. “One of the benefits of taking the class is how many new people you meet. I make a lot of friends in the class,” Field said. “It’s just a lot of fun to hang out with them in the class.”
Senior Mary Alderink has taken theater arts four times and keeps going back for her passion for acting. “When I was helping with the play, ‘Noises Off,’ I recognized how the actors/actresses had to be conscious of not only their lines but everyone else’s too. Theater arts has definitely helped me stay on my toes,” Alderink said. Theater arts teacher Ken Gordon encourages students who are thinking about taking it or are planning on repeating it, to sign up. “It’s a fun class that helps you get comfortable in your own skin,” Gordon said.
24 December 2009
Staffer’s choice: MOVIE
Throw on comfortable clothes, grab the tissues, a large drink and food because one will not want to get up during this movie. Not Easily Broken is a definite tear jerker that no one should miss, especially the drama lovers. Starring Morris Chestnut, as Dave, and Taraji P. Henson, as Clarice, the movie is a must see. The movie starts off as Dave and Clarice are exchanging their vows. The minister lays a cord over their shoulders while saying the blessing, “A threefold cord is not easily broken.” One piece represents Dave, one represents Clarice and the last piece represents God. He says that they must keep God in their marriage and he will help them through all of their struggles. Dave and Clarice quickly find themselves with a handful of problems within their marriage. Clarice is the money maker in the relationship, and Dave is struggling with his small construction company while he also coaches a little league baseball team. Dave discovers that he has different needs and desires in the marriage. Clarice refuses to have children because she is so involved in her career, when all Dave really wants is a child. Clarice tries to make all of the decisions in the marriage, which leaves Dave believing that his opinion does not matter. Clarice had an awards ceremony to go to one night, and Dave was late getting home. On the way there, they were fighting about him being late. They stopped paying attention to the road, and ended up getting in a car accident. Clarice was seriously injured, and this started Dave’s list of problems. Clarice’s mom then moves in with them to try and help Clarice. They both verbally attack Dave and blame the accident on him. No matter what he does, it is never good enough for Clarice or her mother. As Clarice and Dave drift apart, their marriage is put to the test. I can not explain much more without spoiling the movie, so I suggest that everyone see it. It will give each person a different outlook on life and how they treat the people they truly love.
Compiled by: Tori Jorgensen If you liked this, we also recommend --------------------------------------------
MOVIE
The Proposal
The Proposal also covers the love and drama effect. This is more of a comedy though. It’s not quite as serious, but it’s still good.
ALBUM
Unstoppable
Unstoppable by Rascal Flatts is great for any mood. All of the songs have many life lessons in them and catchy beats.
BOOK
Flipped
Flipped is an easy to follow book that many teens could be interested in. Short and sweet, it gets the point across.
Artists of the Month
Torres Jackson
Vanessa Danis
The Crystal 25
feature
Breaking the habit; NSN style
In light of No Shave November, students across the world are setting aside their razors.
Thoughout the past month many united for a common purpose, No Shave November. Students and adults alike broke old habits and refused to shave for a month, realizing what life was like not caring about what others thought about them. For some, the journey was a long one. One filled with itchy faces and stubbly legs. For the rest of the brave, the journey was anything but difficult; shallow peach fuzz was an easy concept for many to live with. No matter what the outcome of No Shave November ended up, all participants, whether newb or expert, learned something about themselves: it is not what is on the outside that truly matters, but rather one’s heart.
Compiled by: Loren Wright
Photos by: Amber Glomb
26 December 2009
Compulsions of the mind
Ph
oto
om Fr
:F
ree
e pix
co ls.
m
5 Things You Should Know About... Animals
1 attack a human being
or any other living orgasnism while it is in motion in the wild. An American Bald Eagle can kill a young baby deer, better known as a fawn, and fly away with it.
A vulture will never
Laceey Ruble News Editor
Someone answers the phone, they finish their conversation and hang up, then hang up again, and again and again. This is what life can be like for a person with an obsessive compulsive disorder. “I think that my door is unlocked even though I know I locked it. I have to go back five times to make sure the door is locked,” junior Chloe Sprague said. “I also worry that my car headlights are still on and always have to check.” People with OCD live with a constant obsession and develop a compulsion to get relief from it. A person may develop an obsession that the phone is not hung up, and to combat that, they will repeatedly hang up the phone. “I can’t explain why I do it, but I’m pretty sure I have OCD since it’s something I always have to do,” Sprague said. “I feel wrong when
I don’t check back enough times. It’s my routine and I won’t be able to move on to something else if I don’t go back to check.” In the United States, one in 50 adults have been diagnosed with OCD and even more have experienced it during their life. OCD is something many people face during their life because everyone’s mind works differently. “I always have to walk on the right side of people,” senior Alexa Lytle said. “There are a lot of little things I’m OCD about, but none of them affect my everyday life.” A lot of people have different opinions on how severe OCD can be. “I think a lot of people are like me and have a little OCD,” Lytle said. “I think for most people it’s not a big deal.” However, many think the contrary. “Sometimes I wonder what it’d be like not to think about the little things like locked doors. I wish I didn’t spend time thinking about these things,” Sprague said. Information provided by www.ocfoundation.org.
2
An octopus needs three hearts. One to pump blood through their exstensive vascular system and the other two to pump oxygen to their gills.
3
A North American Grizzly Bear can bite through a piece of steel that is an inch thick. conlony 5 All ants in aMale ants are female. only live long enough to mate. Female ants store the male elsewhere.
4
Connecting Dani Cavinder to Eric Giddings
Dani Cavinder
Nicole Corra, Brittany’s sister, has chemistry with Travis Moore 4th block.
Eric Giddings
Brittany Corra has second block choir class with Dani.
Compiled by: Haley Burrill
Travis Moore has trigonometry with Eric Giddings 1st block.
The Crystal 27
feature
Gift wrapping the perfect gift
Compiled by: Cierra Dixon Photos by: Amber Glomb Pull wrapping paper over gift and Face the gift down on the wrapping paper and fold one side. crease at edge. Leave extra wrap.
Gather up all wrapping paper, sissors, tape, bows, paper, etc.
Fold crease under, making sure the wrap lines up with the edge.
1 .
Fold corners inward to create a flap. Repeat folding on each end.
2.
Tape all folds. Add bows, cards, nametags, etc.
3.
4.
Brysen Reigner Reporter
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“I was in school when the principal sent all of us home. It was on the bus ride home when I realized the tragedy that had taken place,” sophomore Spencer Lahr said as he described the tragic events of Sept. 11. Another event that happened recently that shook the world was the death of Michael Jackson. “I was eating at Applebees when it [Michael Jackson’s death] had happened and it came on the TV,” English teacher Patricia Verette said as she reminisced the day that the notorious pop singer passed away. These are just a few of the memorable moments that most people will remember for the rest of their lives.
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Remembering the days
There are days in one’s life that will never be forgotten. Maybe it is the birth of a new family member or the first time a child rides their bike solo. There are also days you will remember because of tragedy and despair. One day that will always be instilled in the minds of Americans are the attacks on Sept. 11, 2001, when 19 terrorists took control of four airliners. America was in a state of shock after the unexpected attack. America had never seen such an attack with this kind of magnitude. There will always be moments that stay with one, whether it is out of despair or joy.
FEELING PATRIOTIC Sophomore Malachi Barrett shows off his patriotism by wrapping himself in the American Flag. Barrett’s father was in the military so he tends to show his patriotism often. [Photos provided by Malachi Barrett].
28 December 2009
Sweetwater’s Donut Mill: after hours
Story and photos by: Alexis Worthington
In the early morning of Sat. Nov. 7, between the hours of 1 a.m. and 4:30 a.m. to be exact, I observed the comings and goings of the people who frequent Sweetwater’s during what most would consider odd hours.
Name(s): Naine Tahyar and Bondie Marenko Occupation: Retired Favorite donut(s): “We both like glazed because they are fresh when we get here. They are still warm as we eat them,” Marenko said. Time arrived: 1:55 a.m. Time left: 2:52 a.m. Why are you here? “We come here after four hours of dancing for a sweet treat. We excercise to lose weight, then come here to eat all the weight back,” Marenko said. How often do you two come at this time? “We come here every Friday night,” Tahyar said. How do you know each other?: “We are friends,” Tahyar said.
Name(s): Ron and Zack Occupation: Rite Aid, full-time student/Denso Favorite donut(s): New York Cheesecake/Caramel Apple Time arrived: 3:25 a.m. Time left: 3:39 a.m. Why are you here? “It’s a Friday night, what else is there to do in Battle Creek?” Ron said. How often do you two come at this time? “I don’t come her often, maybe once every two months,” Ron said. “I come here even less than Ron, maybe every six months,” Zack said. How do you know each other? “We went to Battle Creek Central high school together,” Ron said.
Name: Daryel Occupation: Baker at Sweetwater’s Donut Mill Favorite donut: New York Cheesecake Time there: 3rd shift How long have you worked here? I’ve been working at Sweetwater’s for about ten years,” Daryel said. Do you like working here at this time? “I love working 3rd shift because of family life. I get to spend a lot more time with them because I work when they are sleeping so I can be with them during the day,” Daryel said.
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feature
What inspires you...
Haley Pengelly the dancer.
“Music inspires me to feel different emotions and want to reflect that with a new dance,” sophomore Haley Pengelly said.
Heather Briggs the designer.
“Nature inspires me to create fashion designs, I like the colors and shapes and I like to try and fit the patterns and things together,” junior Heather Briggs said.
Jon Page the artist.
“Psychology inspires me as a drawer, basically the origin of subconscious thought. I feel like the brain is trying to tell us something everyday and I feel it’s up to us to figure it out,” senior Jon Page said.
Nancy Huynh the Biologist.
“I get inspired by the human body and by looking through my biology book; I just think the cells are pretty,” senior Nancy Huynh said.
Compiled by: Morgan Worthington Photos by: Amber Glomb
30 December 2009
Compiled by: Kaleigh Walters
Senior David Almeida-Arrieta drives an orange, 2008 Dodge Avenger that his parents bought for him nearly three months ago. Not only is it an appealing car but it also has a good stereo system inside. But the ride of the car is the best part. “It has comfortable seating and a pretty smooth ride,” Almeida-Arrieta said. “It also saves on gas money I guess.” Overall, Almeida-Arrieta has one of the most spiffy cars you’ll see in Lakeview High Schools parking lot. Senior Shelbi Clements owns and drives a black, 1998 Volkswagen Golf. It has reached the maximum speed of 120 mph even if it’s junky. “It’s missing two hub caps,” Clements said. “[There is also] a pretty big dent on the side [of my car] from when an old lady hit me before.” Clements got her car about a year and a half ago for only 3,000 dollars. Her friends tell her that they can hear her coming down the street because of her noisy Volkswagen.
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Photos by Kaleigh Walters
Beauty
and the
Beas t
tradition
“Tradition is the illusion of permanence.”
-Woody Allen
Photo by: Tess Haadsma
