Senior Issue 2012 by Bear Facts

Prom King & Queen MIchael Graham & ebony sims

Bear Facts Senior issue

Vol. 31 issue 5

Bethel high school

1067 Big Bethel Rd. Hampton , Virginia 23666

Seniors get ready for next destination

An open letter to the Senior Class

Editor-in-Chief James Parker

Advertising Manager Steven DeShong

Sports Editor Elizabeth Clay

Staff Reporters Katelyn Donnally Jatia Eley Isha Ewing Melissa Giuliana Marvin Greene-Boyd Zachariah Guion April Hill Kareem Maurice Jordyn McConville Kaitlynn Miller Jamesha Nurse Dakota Pantel Sara Peartree Jamicia Stamps Lindsey Thompson Emily Townsend Advisor Beth Hoer

Our purpose is to serve the students of Bethel High School as a forum for student expression. Editorials and opinion pieces will be clearly labeled as such. The Bear Facts is a self-supporting publication, and advertising revenue pays for publications costs. We encourage readers to submit ideas for stories, letters to the editor, photos, and art. We also encourage comments and suggestions about the newpaper. hcs-bhsnewspaper@hampton.k12.va.us

Bruins are tough, defensive, and aggressive people. I don’t believe that the school founders knew over 40 years ago how fitting our mascot would be for describing the 2012 graduating class. In the wild halls of our school, Bruins have to be strong in order to survive. If we cried everytime we were the butt of a joke, or we walked into a class and the room got just quiet enough for a rude remark to lash out from the back, we wouldn’t have made it past freshman year. Our high school isn’t filled with high spirits or camaraderie because we all built protective shells to block the negativity and rudeness that fill the halls. For years we’ve been in an environment where the usually polite phrase “excuse me” is only used by students pushing to cut to the front of the lunch line, and the only response after hearing that our fellow students tried to fight to the death is “Where’s the youtube video?” Eventually every one of us was hardened by our experiences here. The “I don’t care” mentality we shield ourselves with made it easier to deal with our harsh surroundings, but at some point we have to open up. Our old defense mechanisms of always answering sarcastically and making fun of every stranger we meet so that we are vulnerable to as few people as possible won’t suffice in the real world. Many of us just stopped caring about what others

think (which is good), but we also stopped caring about their feelings (not good). Because students push past me in the halls, I didn’t see the problem with sticking out my elbows in between classes to get through. But it is a problem. None of us should get so cold that we only care about ourselves and our close friends. This year I decided to work toward the greater good of all students. That meant planning school events with the Student Council even if we only got complaints and no help. It also took me slowing down for the guys speeding through the parking lot blasting the 2 Chainz mixtape. So, my parting words to you? Find a median; don’t let everything get to you, but don’t block everyone out. We have to be willing to let people in and sometimes that means you’re just not so selfish. With the possibility that we might be judged or hurt also comes the great chance that we can make friends, assist others in similar situations, and eventually become better individuals. People in life do notice the good that you do. Superlatives was proof of that, and even those that think superlatives are a popularity contest can admit that the winners for friendliest were deserving. That’s because it’s easy to spot the good deeds among vicious unrest. James Parker Editor-in-Chief

Weeks of celebration Prom on May 18 was followed by “Senior Skip day” the next Monday, a field trip to Washington D.C. on Wedesday, and both breakfast and the Senior/Faculty basketball game on Friday. At the breakfast, just as the Senior Class finished up their plates of bacon, eggs, hashbrowns and biscuits, out rolled carts with hot Chic-fil-a cinnamon rolls and chicken biscuits. The morning ended with administrators and teachers handing out class t-shirts. Before graduation the seniors also had a picnic at Bethel Park. Graduation takes place June 15 at 7 p.m.

Most seniors’ goals are to go to college, but the ways that they get there are all different. Some are staying in Virginia, others are going out of state, but school is not everything. Not all jobs and careers say De’Juane Davis. Photo you need to have a college degree. Some taken by Marvin Greene careers can be started after graduation. Graduation specialist Dana Patterson looked up the percentage of what the entire districts looked like in past years. Nine percent of graduates go straight to work after graduation; 49.86% of graduates go to a four year college; 7.57% join the military; 25.34% plan to go to a two-year college. 1.17% have no plans at all, and 5.85% have plans other then going to college or joining the military. The over all percentage of people who plan to attend a 2-4 year college is 76%. Senior De’Juane Davis plans to go to The Arts Institute of Washington to become a game designer in a four year program. Davis said,

Senior Issue 2012

Some of the crew members with other friends at prom. Seniors Ralph Foskey, Devon Rivers, Brennan Granison, Ernest Hooks, Nicholas Munda, Muad Saif, Najee Ashley , Patrick Reantaso, and James Darden.

freshmen year. Reantaso said, “I think no matter what, we will stay close.” All of them have got into arguments

before, but have never really stopped being friends. Reantaso said “I’m going to miss the laughs the most and

not being able to see them everyday when I go to college.” Foskey said that he is going to miss just hanging out when they go off to college. He is going to college at Old Dominion University along with Reantaso. Foskey said, “We all know where we live, as well as our phone numbers, so that is how we will stay in touch.” Only time will tell if their friendship will last, but these seven friends have had a long adventure together. Foskey said, “Our plans in the future are to stay in touch generally.” Granison, West, Foskey, Wiseman, Reantaso, Hooks, and Haney all have plans in the furture with each other and it is important to make their friendship last. Dakota Pantel Staff Reporter

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has been my best friend. This will be my first experience with empty nest syndrome and Westly’s first experience as a man.” Wooten’s father thinks the military will make his son stronger. Kellyn Fain. Wooten’s father Photo taken by James Parker said, “ His biggest challenge will be staying true to his core beliefs and not being intimidated by what he’s surrounded by.” Senior Kellyn Fain recently became a registered nurse through the New Horizons EMT program. She will be attending West Virginia University to major in Nursing. After college graduation she plans on being a Contract Flight Nurse. “I’d like to go somewhere in the South Pacific. The benefits are amazing and I’d get to travel,” she said. Marvin Greene-Boyd Staff Reporter

Flying the seven cities: Defying the odds and gravity

Will this crew be fond friends forever? Since freshman year, many peers have formed special bonds. After four years of knowing each other and having tight relationships, many close friendships have been made. But what happens when friends are separated and end up going their separate ways? Seniors Brennan Granison, Colby West, Ralph Foskey, Jeffrey Wiseman, Patrick Reantaso, Ernest Hooks, and Shiquan Haney are all best friends. Reantaso said some of them have known each other since middle school, but for the most part they all met in high school. Reantaso is going to Old Dominion University for college and his best friends are going to Thomas Nelson Community College or don’t plan to go to college. Some of them have been friends since 7th grade, but most of them have been best friends since

“I have played video games most of my life, but I always wanted to make my own.” He would like to get a job working for Ubisoft, the makers of the Assassin’s Creed video game series, which is one of his favorites. Senior Wesley Wooten. Photo Wesley Wooten taken by Marvin Greene plans to go into the military. He would like to join the army reserves to be trained how to fix airplanes. Wooten said, “At first I didn’t want to join the military, but they can help me pay for school.” He said that his sign up bonus will be $8,000. Wooten plans to go for basic training in Oklahoma, which will take 11 weeks. Wooten said, “ I don’t want to go, but it’s a really good opportunity, so I’m gonna suck it up and do it anyway. My dad used to tell me it was a good thing to do.” Wooten said he just isn’t used to being away from home. For his father, Wooten’s departure from home won’t be easy. His dad said, “It will be hard for me because in my life no one else

Ramik Carpenter Photo courtesy of Ramik Carpenter

Senior Issue 2012

Senior Ramik Carpenter is on cloud nine; figuratively and literally. Carpenter has been flying planes in the skies of Hampton Roads for two years. His spirits are equally high because he was recently accepted into the competitive Aviation Science Program at Elizabeth City State University, in Elizabeth City, North Carolina. His success in the air has launched several different options for the future. Carpenter said has had an interest in flying since he first traveled on a plane when he was four. However, it wasn’t until one year ago that he joined the Tuskegee Airmen Youth Program and learned to fly planes. In just a couple of months he has flown several general aircraft planes, including a Cessna 150 and 172, Diamond DA40 and DA20, Piper Warrior, and Cirrus SR20. Usually flying once a week, Carpenter is very relaxed and knowledgeable behind the wheel. “Flying’s actually very simple. People would say I’m crazy but it’s easier than driving a car,” said Carpenter. Despite his comfort while driving, he is aware of how serious flying is. Piloting thousands of feet off the ground, Carpenter has full control of his life and all passengers aboard. The biggest problems he’s faced so far has just been turbulence, but in a small single engine plane any shaking is scary. Carpenter also takes a calm

approach to one of the most tense parts of flying. “Everyone thinks landing is scary,” said Carpenter, “but if you get off the ground, you know you’re going to have to get back on.” This summer Carpenter will take off again. But he’ll be headed toward Elizabeth State University for the Aviation Science program. After studying he is looking toward being a flight instructor or commercial pilot. Carpenter has his flight instructor to thank for his success. His instructor Donald Bagwell, chairman of the Tidewater Chapter of the youth program, is also a certified instructor, and gives lessons free of charge. Flights can cost up to $300 per hour, and the 17 pilots in the program are in the air for one to two hours each. The program also gave Carpenter the opportunity to meet three original Tuskegee Airmen, who were the first African-American U.S. military pilots. The United States Census Bureau reports that in 1940 there were only 124 black pilots in America, and in 1976 there were still only approximately 80 African-American employed commercial pilots. Out of over 70,000 commuter airline pilots today, only an estimated 674 are black. Carpenter and his fellow pilots in training are changing the view of the American pilot, without even knowing it. James Parker Editor-in-Chief

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Class of 2012 Val & Sal Johnafaye Mariano and Amber Gonzalez

Valedictorian Johnafaye Mariano has worked hard for her spot while balancing the demands of ROTC with a rigorous AP curriculum. What is your GPA? 4.45 What college are you going to? Virginia Commonwealth University How did you keep your grades up? I kept my grades up by studying every night, doing all of my homework, and setting priorities. What motivates you to get good grades? The satisfaction of seeing my hard work pay off is what motivates me to keep my grades up. What do you do on your free time? I spend time with my friends and family, go to the beach or mall, cook, and play piano on my free time. Have you enjoyed your high school experience? I have enjoyed my high school experience because I have learned a lot, not only in academics but also in life.

Some Highest graduating scholars. Matthew Harney, Karilyn Tennant, Gabrielle Godette, Joseph Whiteman, Jared Durr, Courtney Ridley, Cheyenne Keyes, Jada Benford, Morgan Nayadley, Marie Bothwell, and Maya Moore. All lived by the advice given by Bethel’s Graduation Specialist Dana Patterson: “It’s the future that you’re focusing on.”

Graduation rates show mounting success

For salutatorian Amber Gonzalez the hard work paid off in sports, drama, and scholarship dollars. What is your GPA? 4.32 What college are you going to? West Virginia University How did you keep your grades up? I kept my grades up by studying hard and turning in all of my work on time. I always do my work to the best of my ability. What motivates you to get good grades? My motivation to get good grades is that I wanted to get into a good school and work towards a successful future. What do you do on your free time? I participate in the Drama Club and play field hockey in my free time. I also enjoy hanging out with friends, going on scavenger hunts, and watching hockey. Have you enjoyed your high school experience? I’ve enjoyed my high school experience because, even though there were some rough patches along the road, I have gained so many friends and have had a lof of fun. I wouldn’t change anything about my experience. Jordyn McConville

Senior Issue 2012

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Bethel’s current graduation rate has improved from 92.96% last year to 95.7% this year. According to Graduation Specialist Dana Patterson the thing that most often stops students from graduating is when they pursue a General Equivalency Diploma (GED) instead. This is a series of five tests that include reading, writing, math, science, and history. These exams test basic 8th and 9th grade knowledge Another reason why kids drop out is that students might become lazy towards the end of they year . Patterson recommends that students treat high school like a business. At a business, if employees fall behind in the duties that they have, then they will be punished, and ultimately may be fired. The same goes for high school. If you fail to meet your deadlines and you are not focused on your studies, you might run the risk of not graduating on time. Patterson said, “Students believe that if the teachers don’t care, why should the students? Believe it or not, teachers do care, they’re getting on you now to prepare you for the real world.” Patterson said that if the community itself got involved in the school process, then the graduation rate might go up even further. Getting the parents, police officers, and firefighters involved in what goes on at the school might add additional motivation to those at Bethel who are struggling. If they knew more about career choices and the different things that are included in each, then choosing a career path would be easier. As for advice, Patterson said, “Do it right the first time. Don’t be afraid to ask for help if you really need it. Don’t let yourself get behind on your deadlines.” Katelyn Donnally Staff Reporter

Senior Issue 2012

Through difficult times, O’Brien’s mom motivated him to stay on track, focused Senior Luke O’Brien says that the hardest thing about maintaining focus for graduation was keeping track of all the deadlines that he has in his classes. But then he thinks about his future after high school, which is firefighting, and he is able to focus again. “Without a high school diploma, you won’t have very many career choices,” said O’Brien. That should be motivation enough for students at Bethel because many are pursuing future career options. “My motivation for graduating and pursuing my future of being a firefighter comes from my mom, who passed away due to health complications. During that time, I was in contact with firefighters and medics both. I take pride and remembrance in this

because of my mom,” said O’Brien. As a volunteer firefighter, O’Brien plans to attend the Tidewater Regional Fire Academy. O’Brien said, “I love everything involved in firefighting and I want to make my mom proud. I also want to give back to all the Newport News firefighters and medics that helped me with my mom.” O’Brien’s tip on staying on track throughout the year from O’Brien is: “ Keep your head up and keep pushing forward no matter what happens. Keep your attendance up and maintain your grades in your core classes. Enjoy the time that you have with your friends, but don’t let it get in the way of your studies. Make sure that you are ready for adulthood when you graduate.” Katelyn Donnally Staff Reporter

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Career Coach Watson Find campus crime data online Helping students determine their futures

Seniors Shakira Mills and Christian Walker listen to Watson during a classroom visit. Photo by Kaitlynn Miller. Career Coach Joyce Watson is helping prepare students for the rest of their lives, offering assistance and support in their choices for the future. Watson and guidance counselor Lisa Roland collaborated to accomplish the On-Site College Admissions Night early this semester, where more than 70 students attended from all over the city, with over 30 from Bethel. “I am not the driver. I am simply the navigation system,” said Watson. Wise words for a woman who has had two sons continue through college and works daily with students who may or may not have an idea as to what they want to do with their life after Bethel. For those who are completely unsure, Watson asks simple questions, such as “What do you enjoy doing?” and, “Would you like to go to college?” These questions give insight into the student’s personality and his or her interests, and from there, Watson suggests careers or majors that the student may enjoy. Watson suggests picking a major before deciding on a school. “If you pick a school first, you have to mold to one of their programs,” said Watson. Colleges don’t always have the same options for majors, so picking a college first could mean that a student doesn’t get the major they desired. Of course, not all students go straight to a university or private college. Going to community college is a good choice as well, “Community colleges help keep your brain in check and can increase your GPA,” said Watson. Community colleges also offer workforce development, which allows students to be exposed to the type of career they are interested, and get experience and internships with the jobs they would like to pursue. “Many people come into my office unsure about what they want to do with their lives. But the important thing is that they don’t leave that way,” said Watson. Another way she helps students is going from class to class, and having the students take online career assessments, after which options for majors are suggested for them, as well as schools and careers. “Nobody should walk across that stage without having something. Something worthwhile,” said Watson. “My job is to promote post-secondary goals for students. Whatever that goal is, is my job.” Kaitlynn Miller Staff Reporter

Senior Issue 2012

Bang! Bang! Bang! It was 2 A.M when I had finally laid down in a dorm room while on an overnight college visit, and someone wanted his presence to be known. Whoever was on the other side of the door was clearly upset, as he continued to bang on the door and wail as if he was hurt. My dorm hostess, concerned it was one of her friends, cracked the door open to see what was going on. Suddenly, a disoriented boy stumbled into the room and toppled over onto her bed. “Who are you?! Get out!!” she yelled. “The intention of clusion, do you understand?!” he replied. We had no idea what he was trying to say. He kept reaching around him saying his friend was standing with him. He was clearly hallucinating and obviously under the influence of something. Immediately we called campus police when we realized he had no intentions of leaving. Campus police arrived after a few minutes and took him away right in front of us. Although at this particularly small college incidents like this are not a common occurrence, every college or university has its share of campus crime. The Campus Security Act of 1990 requires that all colleges and universities publish at least three consecutive years of their crime reports in October of each year. A Bear Facts review of those reports indicated that the most common campus crimes are larceny, theft, and liquor violations. However, campus crime can include sexual offenses, hate crimes, and even manslaughter or murder. The frequency of campus crimes vary depending on the size and population of the institution. Large universities such as Virginia Tech have been in the spotlight multiple times in the past five years for heinous crimes, such as the infamous Tech shooting in April of 2007. Attention was drawn to Tech again in January 2009 with a gruesome beheading incident in the Au Bon Pain cafe on the campus. Although this crime was oddly omitted from the crime report, the big crimes are not the only thing to be

worried about. Radford University is often stereotyped as a party school. In 2008, there was a total of 108 liquor law arrests; in 2009, there were 75 arrests; and in 2010, 94 arrests. That’s 1.2% of the student population involved in alcohol related arrests. A liquor law violation includes any attempt or act violating laws prohibiting the transportation, sale, manufacturing, creation, or possession of alcohol; using a vehicle to inappropriately transport the alcohol, providing/creating alcohol for an underage individual, or drinking in public. However, the tally does not include liquor law violations, driving under the influence and public intoxication. In comparison, Old Dominion University (ODU) has an undergraduate student population of a little over 12,000. Although not often called a “party school,” in the year 2008, there was 113 liquor law violations. In 2009, there were 252; and in 2010, 333 arrests total. ODU’s graduate population brings the total population to over 18,000, double Radford’s population. That’s a total of 1.8% of their student body arrested for alcohol violations. William and Mary posts a weekly crime report in their newspaper, the Flat Hat. In the event of an emergency threat to the entire campus, emails are instantly sent out to all the student body describing what they need to do to be safe. “Always make good judgments for yourself and others, and surround yourself with support,” said Bethel alumni Justin Miller William and Mary Resident Assistant. As a resident assistant, protocol is for Miller to contact the William and Mary Police Department if anything were to go wrong in his area of jurisdiction. The amount of crime happening on a college campus has many factors, and needs to be considered when looking into a school. Campus security can only do so much, and ultimately protection lies in a student’s judgment. Emily Townsend Staff Reporter

Congratulations

Madelynn Poulson Drama Student of the Year

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What’s the best advice anybody ever gave you? Tip #1 how to have fun without alcohol

Like most seniors, Johhnie Wooten, Meghan Clark, Connor Henderson, Danielle Quahndal, and Cushmeer Sargent may need tips for their fresman year at college. Photo taken by Daikiyah Gore

Alumni hints to survive college What do you need to know to be prepared for college? Who do you turn to for advice on how to manage your college life because you know that you won't have the structure that you were used to in high school? Recently, several Bethel graduates passed down some valuable advice to the class of 2012.

Studying & Setting goals Norfolk State University student Casity Hawkins class of 2014, says “Always study. Go to the library and study because it is a quite environment to concentrate in. Never wait till the last minute to study. Try studying your school work everyday so it can stay fresh in your head. Discipline yourself to make sure you attend class. Go to bed at a reasonable hour. You also have to wake up at a reasonable hour to get ready for class. To stay safe at high school, you should never walk by yourself at night. Choose your friends wisely. If you go to parties, know what the motives are. To stay active in college you should join different type of organizations/sports. Different colleges have different organizations/sports.” Kandice Dabney, a Thomas Nelson graduate and Nursing school graduate said, “Set a goal for yourself in college. Make sure your assignments are completed. Study first and do extra curricular activities later. Never mix your priorities and your extra curricular activities. Always get involved in

Senior Issue 2012

positive activities. Get involved in organizations and sports. Some college campuses have Music and Poetry night.”

Building independence Dwayne Maurice, a Thomas Nelson graduate and soon to be soldier of the Armed Forces said, “Stay true to yourself. There’s nothing wrong with having fun, but always remember that school is your number one priority. Prove to your parents that you’re responsible and mature while you’re away from them. In my first year of college, I spent my money wildly on tattoos, fast food restaurants, hotels, and a whole lot more. Just make sure you balance your money wisely.”

During your freshman year in college you spend most of your time trying to fit in with other students and partying. Most college students think that the only way they can have a great time is by having alcohol in their system, but others know how to have fun sober. There are many different ways to enjoy yourself. Joining social clubs could be a way to have fun without drinking, because it gives you the opportunity to meet other individuals. “Instead of going out and getting drunk me and my friends go to the union,” said Chasity Hawkins, a sophomore at Norfolk State University. All colleges have a union where they sell food and have activities like bowling, skating, movies, etc. There are a lot of other ways to have fun. “I don’t always go out sometimes I just chill and play 2k12,” said Dwayne Maurice, a graduate from Thomas Nelson Community College. Sometimes Maurice takes time out of his day to play basketball with his friends and he also writes poetry instead of going out and getting wasted. A lot of college students often find themselves going to the mall with friends. “You can take time out to read books and keep up on school work,” said Jamika Whitehead, a junior at Howard University. There are more college student out there that know how to have fun with out drinking than people think.

He said/she said Ebony Mitchell: No matter the situatuon and difficulty it may seem there will always be a solution. Brittany Deck: Don’t be a follower, be a leader. Khadijah Jones: Never settle for less. Eimaja Harris: Always strive for the best. Raven Copeland: Don’t go with the crowd and never follow behind anyone’s lead.

Staying Active Virginia Tech sophomore William DeShong class of 2014 said, “Always be active. Don’t go to parties that are up to no good (meaning alcohol and drugs are involved). Students should get involved in as many groups as possible but never over do it. Have a planner to write in when you have assignments due.” Kareem Maurice Staff Reporter

Daniel Williams: Be the best person that you can be. Whitney Rush: Knowledge will take you farther than any amount of money and popularity will. Khalia Crumbley: Work hard. Daikiyah Gore Staff Reporter

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c i n ita

The prom that didn’t sink

FROM THE TIME the dance started until the last senior left the Officer’s Club to go the After-Prom at the Langley Bowling Alley, Prom Night proved to be unsinkable. At 7:45, Tyler Ettleman and his date were the first passengers of the USS Bruin. Him, Jeffrey Henderson, and their dates were the first on the dance floor, and were the only two couples dancing until around 9. Kayla Murphy and her date were also early birds, as they arrived around 8 and were dancing soon after. Ebony Mitchell, Avery Lewis, James Parker, Austin Jefferson and their dates arrived fashionably late. Mitchell said that it took her five hours to get ready, and she ran into some complications. “My hairstylist messed up my hair and my makeup stylist bailed at the last minute.” Field hockey girls and their dates, Kayla Miller, Sam Jones, Jada Benford, Patrick Reantaso, Marie Bothwell, Ralph Foskey, and Kendra Pittman, arrived in a limo after taking pictures at six different houses. Jada’s dad surprised her with the limo, and all of the parents were in on the plan. There was an ice sculpture that was the exact replica of the Titanic as the main feature, as well as a buffet line filled with everything from meatballs to chicken tenders and cake. At the end

of the line there were two punch bowls filled with what looked like lemonade and floating fruit. Many unique trends in dress were deviated from the standard long, brightly colored dresses and black tuxedos. Jamila Franklin and Kayla Scott wore mini-dresses, Tanisha Moody and Dela Dogbe wore high-low dresses, and Samantha Searls and Courtney Hayford wore backless gowns, with slits that ran well up their thighs. Many of the guys wore bow-ties and white suits, and Christian Walker had a peacock feather in his lapel to match the one in Sara Peartree’s hair. Diamond Robinson even got a shout-out from the DJ, who said her blue, black, and white dress was original. The music started off slow with hits like “Party in the USA” by Miley Cyrus which kept the dance floor to a minimum of five or six people. Once the hall started filling up and whispers went to loud roars, the DJ switched it up to songs like “House Party” by Meek Mill and “John Doe” by Rick Ross, which got people excited. Old school jams are what really got people moving and group dances like the Cupid Shuffle and Wobble are what brought everyone together as a whole. Around 11 p.m., Principal John Bailey, the DJ, and Senior Class president

Madelynn Poulson crowned Michael Graham and Ebony Sims the King and Queen and they had their ‘first dance’ to the theme from Titanic. There was little variation as to types of dancing. Through crowds of twerk, there were a few couples slow dancing and some bernie-ing and laughing with their friends. “It was great. It wasn’t that raunchy” said Stacy Adams, referring to the dance styles. “I had a really fun time,” said senior Josh Lavinder, who had to leave around 11 along with the rest of seniors on the Varsity Baseball Team to get some rest before their District Tournament game the next morning (Woodside won). For Murphy, IHOP was her final port of call. According to her and her group, “everything was good but the DJ.” Kayla Miller and Sam Jones left for after-prom around 11. Miller said, “I will remember the last slow dance to Celine Dion.” The next big step for the class of 2012 is graduation, but this Prom will live on to be. As Nathaniel Rucker said, “It was everything I expected it to be and more.” Elizabeth Clay Steven DeShong Regine Henderson

Above photos left to right. Willie Davis and date, dancing attendees. Captions for pg 9 from left to right. Top row: Dillon Poslik, Connor Henderson, Josh Gwaltney, Precious Dargan, Danielle Quandahl. 2nd row: Frank Brown, D’andra Blake, Lorenzo Jones, Alexis Vincent, Patia Lewis. 3rd row: Kendra Pittman, Kayla Johnson, Danielle Quandahl, Gabrielle Valentine, Samantha White, Kelsi Evans, Yancy Nesbitt, Jean Tatum, Meagan Clark, Chelsea Wagner, Elizabeth Cambell, Emily Kondrik, Jaron Overton, Brendon Cole, Emaja Harris, Nashyia Eley, Regina Proctor, Ebony Mitchell, Sara Peartree, Whitney Rush, Danielle Stother. Last row: Khaliq Payne, William Brown, Tahj Scott, Amber White, Miguel Ortiz, Gabby C, Kody Gross, Laurissa Golliher, Josh Lavinder, Courtney Hayford, Alex Mannen, Shelby Pantel, Connor Henderson, Emily Townsend, Josh Gwaltney, Kasey Ward, Brandon Barker. Photos courtesy of Candid Color.

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Senior Issue 2012

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Senior Superlatives

Best Overall

Madelynn Poulson & Christian Walker

Best Male Crew

“Wolf Gang/113” Patrick Reantasso, Ernest Hooks, Colby West, Najee Ashley, Shiquan Haney, Brennan Granison, Ralph Foskey, & Jeffrey Wiseman *some not pictured

Most Athletic Maya Moore & Willie Davis

Life of the Party & Most Unforgettable Donte Wilkins & Zakiyyah Williams

Best Female Crew “PickSixx” Maya Moore, Anise Cuffee, Jasmine Lott, Khadijah Vines, Sierra Morgan, and Danielle Strother

Most School Spirit Maya Sapp & James Miller

10 The Bear Facts

Best Couple

Patrick Reantasso & Jada Benford

Friendliest

Ebony Mitchell & Eric Workman

Senior Issue 2012

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Spring Sports Senior athletes awarded sports scholarships include: Maya Moore to Hampton University for track & field, Connor Henderson to William & Mary College for baseball, Anise Cuffee to Long Island University for track & field, Rashaun Proctor to Old Dominion University for football, Sierra Morgan to St. Augustine College for track & field, Michael Artis to Elizabeth City State University for football, Jasmine Lott to Indiana Tech for track & field, Dahaun Dunn to Virginia Weslyan for basketball, Grady McClean to Ferrum College, and Steven Mason to St. Augustine College for football.

Senior Boys Varsity Soccer players Patrick Reantaso and Brenanan Granison; Junior Boys Varsity Soccer goalie Justin Bias; Senior Boys Tennis player Mathew Harney; Senior Rugby player Josh Gwaltney; senior track & field jumper Jayme- Thomas; Senior Varsity Baseball team. Photos courtesy of Candid Color.

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Senior Issue 2012