e h T Viking
Shaquila Doss
Reporter the Ultimate Prom. Grammy-nominated pop star Keri Hilson, who has performed with Lil’ Wayne, Kanye West, Chris Brown and others, came to MSU’s Spartan Club Saturday to perform a private concert for the attendees of Prom 2011. Three months ago, Nguyen entered the “Ultimate Prom” contest sponsored by Seventeen Magazine. She was asked to write why her school should win the contest and have a celebrity performer there. Nguyen wrote that it would be fun and exciting if Keri Hilson would come to Everett’s prom this May. She said that an event like that would bring some spirit back to Everett, who didn’t even get to have a winter homecoming celebration. “I wrote the essay for fun, I really didn’t think much of it,” said Nguyen. “I was ecstatic when I found out I won.” Hilson performed a 30-minute concert, and crowned the prom king and queen, Miller Lor and Brianna Black. As she began her set, Hilson told the crowd that “this ain’t gonna be no sucky prom.” She then performed her hit songs, as the crowd screamed and sand along. When she finished the concert with
her current hit “Pretty Girl Rock,” a few lucky girls got to dance with her onstage. “It was amazing that she actually came, and when I got the chance to get on stage with her I felt lucky to be one of the few that were chosen,” said senior Giana Nieto. “I was super excited.” Because of the star guest going to prom, security had been changed and more were added. Michigan State provided three public safety officers and three police officers for the evening. Students were asked to be on their best behavior, and senior adviser Judith Hightower said she never was worried. “[Behavior] never was a concern of mine,” said Hightower. “I knew they would be great. I was a little concerned that, because the kids go out to eat... that they may have not been able to get to the Spartan Club in time for the concert. The other areas of the night met her expectations, as well. “I was pleased with the decorations... the staff was fantastic help as well,” she said. “I thought the majority of the girls wore deresses that were quite appropriate.” Hilson, who presented Sunday at the Billboard music awards, said she enjoys playing to small crowds and feeling their energy. “It’s always more fun, it’s the intimate crowds that I remember the most,” said Hilson. This summer, intimate crowds will be in short supply, as Hilson tours with Lil’ Wayne on his “I Am Still Music” tour.
While many Everett students were getting ready for one of the most important days of their high school careers songstress Keri Hilson was preparing to make it the most memorable prom of all. After having a fitting three days prior to the event, Hilson flew from Washington D.C., landed in Michigan, and went straight to sound check around 1:00. As the day wore on, doubt began to escalate as the time of prom drew near. When word got out that Ms. Hilson had entered the building, excitement built among anxious students. Although many were angered by the wait as the concert start time was delayed, jaws dropped when Ms. Hilson finally hit the stage. “It was totally awesome and I was in [complete] shock,” said junior Elexus Beauchamp. It was clear Keri Hilson was the highlight of the night, making Everett’s prom one no one will forget. Viking Voice reporters Kani Caldwell and Amanda Robertson got the opportunity to sit down with Hilson after the show: VV: What was your day like today, can you walk us through it? KH: I had a fitting three days ago. And yesterday I had a concert in D.C. so we flew straight here here, landed at 1:00 and went to sound check. VV: What did you expect this prom to be like? KH: I really don’t like to come with expectations. I like to feel the crowd out, and go off of their reaction. VV: Did you think Everett’s reaction was a good one, and did you feel the love? KH: Yeah I did, especially when I threw out the towel [and a brawl nearly erupted]. VV: We know that you’re probably more used to performing in front of thousands of people, how was it performing for a smaller audience? KH: It’s always more fun, it’s the intimate crowds that I remember the most. VV: How would you compare your prom to Everett’s prom? A: My prom was probably a little more peaceful and quieter; we didn’t have performers so my prom sucked
CHAD SANDERS
Kani Caldwell Amanda Robertson
NEXT STOP, VEGAS: Keri Hilson talks with reporters after her performance at Everett’s 2011 prom. After a brief rest, Hilson and her entourage had to catch a 4:00 a.m. plane to Las Vegas, where she was a presenter at Sunday’s Billboard Music Awards. SIGN OF THE TIMES: Keri Hilson signs posters as she talks with Viking Voice reporters. Every prom attendee received a signed poster as a prom favor.
compared to Everett’s prom. VV: What was your most memorable prom moment? KH: Oh, let me tell you the story. So I had to get my dress hemmed. I had a long dress, because I’m tall. We had this little carpet picture area, and half of the hem came out, there was no fixing it. No one noticed but me, but still it was really embarrassing. VV: If you could give any message to Everett students what would it be? KH: Be safe tonight! I’m concerned because you hear so many things happening on prom night... You don’t want to do anything you’ll regret for the rest of your life. VV: What are you going to do to top off your night? Do you have any
CHAD SANDERS
Keri Hilson gives Everett the ‘Ultimate Prom’
Hilson: ‘if you’re really passionate, don’t give up’
CHAD SANDERS
KIMBER SEEGRAVES, LIFETOUCH KIMBER SEEGRAVES, LIFETOUCH
CHAD SANDERS
PRETTY GIRL ROCK: Keri Hilson gave prom attendees a night they will never forget. left: Hilson performs “I Like The Way I Are.” top right: Hilson congratulates junior Crystal Nguyen, whose entry in the “Ultimate Prom” contest won Everett the concert. bottom right: Hilson crowns senior Brianna Black prom queen.
When the senior class did not win the blood drive contest to pay for prom, many were disappointed. But thanks to junior Crystal Nguyen, Everett ended up with
Voice
Yo u r S c h o o l . Yo u r Vo i c e .
myvikingvoice.com
Volume 51, Issue 6 May 26, 2011 Everett High School 3900 Stabler Rd. Lansing, MI (517) 755-4472
plans for later? KH: First of all I’m going to get a lot of sleep. I have a show in Vegas tomorrow and at 4:00 [a.m.] I’m catching a flight, so when you guys are going to bed, I’ll be waking up. VV: Would you like to add anything? KH: Thank you so much for having me. For those of you who want to get into music, do focus on your talent and your craft and if you’re really passionate about it, don’t give up! And for those who still don’t know what you want to do when you’re older, get involved in a lot of different things. A lot of people go to college and become an adult and still don’t know what they want to do yet, so explore and try out a lot of different things.
2 News Students participate in year’s final blood drive Each year at Everett, the National Honor Society hosts three blood drives to help the Red Cross. The Red Cross sets a number of Justin Lundy units to try and collect by the end of Reporter the day. Unfortunately, this quota is usually not met. This year, however, Everett Students had a major incentive to donate: former NFL player TJ Duckett offered to pay for the prom of whichever Lansing school collected the most units of blood between all three blood drives. Since students hadn’t heard about the competition before the first blood drive, the number of units was significantly lower than the other two, but the quota was met regardless. During the second blood drive, students flocked in hoards to the small auditorium to donate their blood. There were so many students that Red Cross employees were unprepared to handle the number of students and had to call in reinforcements. Despite the setback, Everett pulled a strong 85 units, compared to the usual 30 or so units. Eastern managed to collect about 35 units. “We did an outstanding job. When you amass the blood collected from all three drives, we did much better than previous years,” said NHS adviser Frank Seminski. Going into the third blood drive with a solid 40 or so unit lead, students were confident that we would win the competition. But Eastern wasn’t down and out for the count just yet. During their third and final blood drive, Eastern was able collect 115 units,
May 26, 2011
and had room for more if the Red Cross hadn’t run out of blood bags. And just like that, Everett was down by 88 units. The Red Cross promised to bring more supplies and workers to ensure more people would be able to get through faster. “I want to give you guys the best chance to win this thing,” said Red Cross director Steve Berger. Over 100 students went to the blood drive in the gymnasium, more than enough to win. Unfortunately, unforeseen circumstances arose on both ends, the Red Cross and the student body. Two of the Red Cross employees had to leave because of sickness and too many students were either underage and didn’t have proper certification or simply had low iron or bad blood and were deferred. After everything was said and done, Everett collected 76 units blood, 12 short of the winning number. “The Red Cross didn’t have enough workers. We had the space and the students to win the thing. They didn’t bring more people like they had promised,” Seminski said. Even though we didn’t win the competition, students should still be proud that they collected this much blood. “Saving lives is a lot more important than who pays for Prom,” said Seminski. “We didn’t win, but that’s just a temporary disappointment. The community wins overall. We don’t like to think of ourselves as needing a blood transfusion, but if that were ever the case, these students were able to help
AMANDA ROBERTSON
by donating blood.” Going into next year, the National Honor Society will have to work hard to get more blood donations. The Red Cross sets a quota based on the previous blood drive’s results, and if students don’t feel motivated, they may not want to give. That doesn’t deter Seminski, though. “The students’ willingness to give is there,” he
BLOOD SIMPLE: Accounting teacher Greg Clugston holds the bandage after giving blood in the NHS blood drive. Everett collected 76 units of blood, which the the Red Cross said is enough to save up to 228 lives.
said. “If we keep our eye on the ball, that we’re doing good and saving peoples’ lives, then we can do it.”
News 3 Juniors getting closer Urban Arts to senior year by STUDENTS SHOW OFF THEIR TALENTS IN RAP, POETRY AND DANCE joining Honor Society AT THE URBAN ART SHOWCASE May 26, 2011
On May 25 at seven o’clock in the cafeteria the new members of the National Honor Society were inducted at the annual ceremony. Pahoua Chang This is a special ceremony Reporter for students who are part of the NHS. “NHS induction is about congratulating and honoring the members of NHS who take their time to do community service inside or outside of the school,” said President Amee Yang. In addition to the induction of new members, the ceremony is a chance to give awards to society members. The awards will be given out by NHS advisor Frank Seminski. “Senior cabinet members get scholarships if they fit the requirements, also pins for juniors and tassels for seniors,” said NHS member Doug Hissong. The members of the NHS have been working hard to complete their community service hours. They are giving back to the community.
“[It] felt great to help the community,” said NHS senior member Thuyen Dang. NHS has accomplished many things this year. They have done blood drives, and fundraise money for the Children’s Miracle Network. Nineteen juniors were inducted, and 34 seniors received their stoles. The induction is a ceremony welcoming all parents to come and see their children’s high achievements. “They always come, it’s a nice moment for parents,” said Seminski. Refreshments and cake were on hand to celebrate the juniors’ and seniors’ achievements. The ceremony is very formal. The juniors dressed up and the seniors were dressed in their graduation gowns. “It’s a very dignified ceremony,” said Seminski. Juniors that were inducted are feeling great. “I feel like I acheived something,” said Vasee Xiong. Six or seven orchestra students were chosen to play the violin for the induction.
jASMINA bASIC
guest artist ‘amateur’
jASMINA bASIC
TAYLOR MACKLIN-SHERRER
There is a yearbook this year, and there will be one next year as well, according to yearbook adviser John Zielinski. The rumors that there would Pahoua Chang not be a yearbook next year come from the fact that the yearbook Reporter is in debt, and struggling to make enough to print the yearbook each year. It is a complicated debt that is carried over from previous years. “We are in debt and that’s where the rumor started,” said John Zielinski. If there wasn’t a yearbook this year, people would be very upset. Especially the seniors, since it is their last year at Everett. “I would be angry and devastated because it’s my last year and I paid for it,” said senior Hermance Akono. It has been two years since Zielinski took over
as the year book advisor, and he’s working to pay off the debt the book had built up from previous years. “[The] 15 years I’ve been here the yearbook has been in debt,” said Zielinski. In the future, the yearbook may be on a disk or online. Not only is Everett in debt, Eastern and Sexton is also in debt. “Year books are expensive to produce,” said Zielinski. The yearbook staff works hard to make yearbooks, but if the debt in yearbooks increase to a point where we can not pay it off, then there will no longer be a yearbook class offered. “If they cut yearbook, they will have to cut the class, but Everett administrators have said nothing about cutting yearbook,” said Zielinski. “Mr. Cousins is very supportive of keeping yearbook at Everett.”
DESTINY JOHNSON & JESSICA TERRY
How would you feel if we “I would be mad because every other didn’t have a “Really sad because those are the class had [a yearbook]” that you have to look back to in - Kedric Jackson yearbook ? memories ten or fifteen years from now” -Amara Jackson
DESTINY JOHNSON, KATIE FAY, MICKALE NELSON, MARQUASIUS CASEY, JESSICA TERRY
“It will be very disapointing to our class because we have the most swagg and it needs to be shown” – Stanley Pates
irma valdes
Rumors spread about 2012 yearbooks
4
Opinion
May 26, 2011
The Viking
The result of high gas prices...
Voice
3900 Stabler Road Lansing, MI 48910 (517)755-4472 myvikingvoice.com myvikingvoice@gmail.com
THE STAFF EDITORS
Clarissa Gonzalez (Editor-inChief)
Irma Valdes (News) Breiah Hoskins (News) Katie Fay (Features) Xia Thao (Features) Lupita Gonzalez (Photo) Amanda Robertson (Entertainment) Jasmine Lopez (Entertainment) Zach Patrick (Sports) Alan Yang (On-Line) Earin Wells (Business) Pahoua Chang (Circulator) REPORTERS Lachonda Beasley Shaquila Doss Stephanie Dunham Keora Grace Gabrielle Hester Diamond Williams Ciara Carter Kani Caldwell Clarissa Dean Justin Lundy Frankie Price Amanda Thomas Joshua Dye Serena Skief
Alan Yang
Advisor
Chad Sanders
Is Everett losing what’s left of school spirit? Has Everett High School lost all its school spirit? Have we seen our last pep rally? This past winter we did Kani Caldwell not have our tradiReporter tional spirit week and fun filled pep rally that we usually have had in the previous years. The burning question is…WHY? There’s been lots of talk for why we have not had a pep rally but no one really knows exactly what would bring our winter sports to a dull end. While some are bummed about the news others didn’t even know we were no longer having one. “I forgot all about it,” said junior Brett Dawsey. Is this a sign that Everett has lost what’s left of its “school spirit” or have we even really had it from the start? When asked if Everett lacks school spirit senior, Michael Skinner replied “Big Time!” But really, what is school spirit? According to thefreedictionary.com, the purpose of a pep rally is to have “a large gathering of people intended to arouse enthusiasm.” This enthusiasm is usually geared towards the school’s teams. Although that may be the case, this fall Everett students showed hardly any school spirit when students decided to boo certain teams.
Consequently this is one of the reasons we may not have any more pep rallies in the near future. While some student had no problem with the negative response towards the teams, most of Everett’s staff was displeased with the behavior of students. Athletic director Cindy Short, responded to the event by saying “That’s not a pep rally [and] that’s not school spirit.” She feels that athletes should be rewarded for trying. Junior Amara Jackson agrees when she states that “[Everett] students are being “bandwagon” fans, [instead] we should support our school.” It seems that students only take pride in the school when the teams are winning, but once the tables have turned, no one wants to have anything to do with school affairs. When questioned about the poor display of school spirit the school social worker, Holly Triestam said that “kids who take pride in their environment” is what school spirit is about. Along with the behaviors between classes, individual performances became an issue also, and the appropriateness of certain acts was strongly questioned. Some say that our pep rallies have evolved into less of a school supporting event and more into a show or popularity contest. In the past years, Everett students were more involved when it came to our
traditional pep rallies, but now it seems that this seasonal event is something that we go to and watch rather than actually participate in. It once was a time to show not only school spirit, but your class pride. However, it’s become relevant that the “Viking pride” no longer exists in Everett High School. When comparing Everett to other schools, sophomore Brianna Fox states that “Everett lacks [a lot] of school spirit.” So what does this mean for the future classes? As an incoming freshman your images of high school, in most cases, aren’t exactly formed. Some may think it will be like “High School Musical” where there are students dancing and singing about high school issues like the “status quo.” Or like “Mean Girls” where high school has a social pyramid and in order to keep from being sentenced to the bottom and facing ultimate ridicule, you must claw your way to the top through back-stabbing and slandering rumors, secrets, and hot gossip on other students. If you haven’t figured it out yet, high school is nothing like that. In many ways it’s almost a heartbreaking disappointment. High school is one of the most important stages of your life. It may not seem like it now, but when you look back in time there will be plenty of moments that you
will remember. Your high school years go by fast so it’s essential that you make the best of it. Although that may be true, it’s hard to make the best of something when you can’t find any good in it. Every year it seems as if Everett has subsided into “Dullville”. Who’s to blame? As students, we can say that it’s the administration’s fault and that budget cuts give students no reason to have pride in school that can’t even afford books, but why give books to students who don’t appreciate them? We don’t even take care of little we do have, so what’s the point of giving things to people who don’t value anything? If we want things to change we as students must change them. 2013’s class president, Huong Nguyen, said that “[Along] with Pep rallies, [school spirit] is a big part of high school life.” And although school spirit may be something that is lacking at Everett High School, it can be widely influenced. So when you are complaining how boring the school seems and questioning all the things we don’t do; trying considering ways we can make our school better. Not only is it about what our school can do for us, but about what we can do for our school. It is time that Everett students ignite the Viking pride and brings back that school spirit that we once had.
Mission Statement
The Viking Voice is a monthly publication of Everett High School. It is published the second Wednesday of each month by the fourth hour Newspaper class. The Viking Voice is distributed free of charge to every student and staff member at Everett. The current issue is always available on the counter of the main office. Subscriptions are also available for $15/year. The Voice is an award-winning member of the Michigan Interscholastic Press Association. Letters to the editor are accepted at the discretion of the editorial board. Forms of speech not protected by the First Amendment will not be published. Letters must be signed by the author, and will be edited for quality. Direct all questions to room 313. We can be contacted via email at myvikingvoice@gmail.com
The Lansing School District is committed to a policy of providing equal opportunities to all qualified people regardless of economic or social status and will not discriminate on the basis of race, color, ethic origin, national origin, creed, religion, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, age, veteran status, or physical or mental ability.
May 26, 2011
Opinion
5
our voice
On June 5th, the class of 2011 will take the final step to leaving Everett and our high school experience behind. As we close this chapter of our lives, there are people we need to thank for helping us get to this place. Those people are the people we are leaving behind: our teachers. Teachers have to listen to our endless list of complaints about assignments, hunger and temperature. They have to put up with students cheating, texting and listening to music. They have to watch mice run across the floor, eating crumbs that students have left behind.They have to watch as students mistreat the already-too-few books that this school has. Through all this, teachers are still expected to fill our brains with as much knowledge as they possibly can. As teenagers, our minds are naturally chaotic. With the constant interruption of electronics and peers, we make it near-to-impossible for teachers to teach. Yet, when we don’t know something we should, we tend to blame it on the teachers. Year after year we hear about cutbacks to the education budget. Who withstands this all? The teachers. These poor people have to go through rounds of lay-offs and huge paycuts, and for what? To teach us! Teaching the youth of our nation is one of the most important jobs in this country. They help build
the foundation our nation rests upon and they don’t get paid enough to do it. Teachers do so much for us that we take for granted. Staying before and after school to tutor us is not part of their job. They don’t get paid to do that. They do it simply to help us. Of course not all teachers do that, but the ones who do need to be recognized and thanked for their kindness. Teachers have the only job where you have to memorize at least 150 new names and faces a year. They have to learn our personalities and how far they can push us. Different students learn different ways, and teachers have to try and cover every way. As teachers assign homework and listen to us whine, we don’t think about how that homework is preparing us for college, or how the teachers have to spend hours grading it. All in all, teachers do a lot for us. They have helped guide us down this rocky path we call high school and they deserve to be thanked for it. Seniors, before we leave make sure you talk to teachers that have helped you and thank them for all the time and consideration they have given you. It’s not in their job description to put up with us like they do, or to be nice and make corny jokes. Give your thanks and make sure they know they made a significant difference to you. After all, they deserve it.
Christianity: the religion of America How many religions are there in the world? In America? In Everett high school? More than one, and I’m here to talk about Christianity. The good parts, why it should be the major religion, and Josh Dye why it’s right. Reporter Christianity is the religion of our forefathers, America’s religion. We know this because we see things around our country: like on coins it says “in God we trust,” in our Pledge of Allegiance we have “one nation, under God.” Our history is Christianity. Let’s get deeper, though, shall we? More than one person would say Christianity isn’t the best. Whether they are Muslim, Catholic, or even Atheist, they want to believe they are right. Christianity has a written “rule book” called the Bible, and we (Christians) abide by it. The main reason I believe we are right is because our God sent his son down
to save us from our sins. We have recordings of Jesus Christ being the son of God. If you believe this or not, I do. Atheists say that there is nothing beyond death, and it doesn’t matter; when you die you die, that’s it and religion is stupid. Think about this: if we are all going to die anyway, I think you and I both would prefer not to just be ashes on the Earth and have to burn as our last moments of life. Christianity offers you a chance to be saved. Instead of hoping there’s nothing worse to come, you get to live all of eternity with the King of Kings, the creator of life. God and our savior Jesus Christ. Salvation, peace, safety, faith... all of these are aspects of Christianity that most people have a desire for, a want or need that can mostly only be filled by religion, sanctity that only God can give. He forgives all, no matter what your past may be. You’re still children of the King and can be saved at any time as long as you ask to be and want to be.
Alan Yang
Before you leave: take time to thank a teacher
Society too obsessed with appearance Girls spend time, a lot of time, putting on makeup, doing their hair, spritzing themselves with perfume, and wearing specific outfits; Bre Hoskins all for guys’ attention. Guys match News Editor their shirts and hats to their shoes, spray old spice or tag, and make sure their “swag” is just right; all to catch the eye of a girl. So why do people today work so hard and spend so much time on their outer appearances if “beauty is only skin deep”? People care more about outward appearances than about a person’s personality. The superficiality is seen especially in high schoolers. Sometimes people dress to one-up members of the same gender. They compete with each other and it turns into a fashion arms race, with teens buying the newest Jordans or other material possessions to be superior in the eyes of their peers. This just furthers making looks more important than a person’s actual personality. Adolescents will choose a boyfriend or girlfriend based on how “hot” or “cute” they are, totally disregarding if they are a jerk or an airhead. Girls will turn down a guy if he isn’t cute to their friends, even if he is an awesome guy. Guys will choose a girlfriend based on her bra size more than her GPA. The media plays a role in exalting looks over allure. Television and magazines tell teens what beauty is supposed to be, displaying stick-thin models and uber-muscular guys, as if everyone is supposed to look like someone from a Hollister ad. One exception is the ABC series Ugly Betty which shows both sides of this argument. It is about a Mexican-American 22 year old that works at a high fashion magazine. She is considered “ugly” because she has huge braces, thick eyebrows, and zero fash-
ion sense. She is constantly looked down upon at her job throughout the series for not looking like her coworkers. However, throughout the show she keeps a positive attitude and has confidence in who she is. Sometimes her peers see her resilience and self-confidence and somewhat admire her for it. I think more shows and movies today should portray “real” people like Ugly Betty does.I think producers don’t make more shows like this because they think audiences will like the characters more if they are more glamorous, that the show would just be boring if they were just normal. The danger in putting looks over character is that we teach future generations that it’s more important and eventually the world, or at least America, will end up obsessed with only looks, like in the book “Uglies” by Scott Westerfield. This problem has been around since the beginning of time. Men and especially women would do outlandish things to their outer appearances to seem attractive to members of the opposite sex. In medieval times women wore corsets that were so tight that they could barely breathe, Japanese Geishas put bird poop on their faces, and nowadays women cut open their chests and insert silicone globes to make their breasts extremely large, so as to have a “Barbie-like” figure. This is all very ridiculous. A great way to look at it is, “who cares?”. Who cares if you don’t have the latest shoes? Who cares if you don’t ever wear make-up? WHO CARES? You are you and that’s all that matters. If you are comfortable in yourself you wouldn’t need others’ approval to feel good about yourself. Others’ opinions don’t define you. I think if everyone had this outlook the world would be a better place and more down to earth.
6
Features
S
pring is finally here. The sun is out and the weather is slowly heating up. As we enter into the vivid season new trends and styles are making fresh and bold statements this year. It seems Kani Caldwell as though we aren’t getting rid of the old, instead Reporter we bringing it back with a new more up to date flavor. Many artist are bringing forth very new and very bold styles to spring fashion. There’s been a lot of talk about music artist, Chris Brown’s new blond hair style. It has brought about a lot of controversy between his fans. “I think it’s corny,” says senior, Jordan Walker. Although that may be the case for many, there’s some that have grabbed hold to the daring style. Female songtrist, Rihanna has
May 26, 2011 also made a huge statement regarding her hair. It’s clear that her bright red hair is making a H O T statement this season. When asked will these trends last, Junior, BreAnna Williams replied, “It will last for the season, but people will [eventually] get over it.” Skinny jeans continue to flourish. Originating in the 1950s, with rock stars such as Elvis Presley, and has made a remarkable comeback in the 2000s. They have grown to be an essential part of everyday wear for both guys and girls. Junior, BreAnna Williams, states that “You can wear them with anything.” As we trade in our sweaters and boots for flip-flops and shorts there’s plenty of new trends embarking today’s fashion. From runway to the halls of Everett High school here are some sizzling essentials for 2011 spring seasons. Stores:American Eagle, Abercrombie, Hollister, Journeys, Wet Seal, Forever21, Burlington, Hot Topic, Target, H& M, Vanity, The Buckle, Charolette Russe, JCPenny, Lids, Rue21, Nick Outlet, Pac Sun, and Old Navy.
SPRING FASHION ROUNDUP
e h T Viking myvikingvoice.com
Voice
Yo u r S c h o o l . Yo u r Vo i c e .
Volume 51, Issue 3
2011 SENIORS! Everett High School 3900 Stabler Rd. Lansing, MI (517) 755-4472
COLLAGE BY CLARISSA GONZALEZ
Seniors say goodbye to high school
Presentation of Roses a Last steps before graduation: unique Everett tradition a senior to-do list For over 50 years, Everett High School has celebrated graduates and their families with the Presentation of Roses. A ceremony unique to Serena Skief Everett, presentation of Roses Reporter started as a mother-daughter tea, and over time it evolved into what it is today. “[Presentation of Roses is] a chance for seniors to honor the people in their lives that helped them get to this point,” said senior class adviser Judith Hightower. The Presentation can be a very emotional time for students and their loved ones. Seniors buy roses and present them to important people in their life. It’s a moment when the seniors are able to give thanks to the people that helped them make it this far in their life.
Presentation of Roses gives them that opportunity to say thank you and whatever else they need to say. “Everyone should bring a handkerchief. Everyone cries. Its a great and emotional program,” said head secretary Nita Kennedy. In the mid-Michigan area, no other schools have a ceremony like the Presentation. “It’s a really nice and positive tradition. It means a lot to the people that do it,” said officer Mark Langschwager. Presentation of Roses is a time where the seniors should show appreciation to all the people that helped them get this far in their life. “[I’m doing Presentation of Roses because I want] to show appreciation to the people that helped me get through high school,” said senior Taylor Hartley.
It’s almost time for the seniors to say goodbye to high school, but before they can do that they must meet some certain requirements in order to graduate Serena Skief with their class. Reporter First, there are the academic requirements. Seniors must have all of their credits and pass all of the required classes. They also can’t have any fines, such as book or sports equipment fines. All text books must be turned in. They have to have taken the MME (Michigan Merit Exam) in the 11th grade. Next, there are behavior requirements. Students must stay out of trouble in the last couple of weeks at school (you won’t fail because of this, but you can be banned from walking across the stage). Not only is behavior necessary for an appearance at the Lansing Center, but there is a dress code that is enforced, as well. Boys are asked to dress wear a tie, button down shirt, dark slacks and dark shoes with no stripes or insignia. Girls should wear dresses, skirts, or
dress slacks. No one is allowed to wear flip-flops, nonblack shoes, sports shoes, shorts, or pajamas. Anyone who shows up to graduation out of compliance with the dress code will not be allowed to walk across the stage. “Graduation is a very dignified ceremony for us. It shows character of our school,” said assistant Principal Carl Ward. “It’s embarrassing for you and you family [if you show up out of dress code and] won’t be able to walk across the stage. Seniors should be able to know how to act by now.” Friday’s senior awards is a time to honor seniors. They get awards for clubs they have been in, academic awards, and their scholarships. Last year, the seniors were offered almost half a million dollars in scholarships. Seniors expect this to be a very serious time. It lasts about three hours. Seniors set the whole tone. Parents are invited, so everyone should on their best behavior. The expectations are held very high for this ceremony. “Senior awards has been following the same pattern since 1991,” said head secretary Nita Kennedy.
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Prom 2011: Myst
tical Masquerade
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Seniors 2011
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t the end of be hard, but most of the 2011 top ten the school agree on two things that made them a year, about success: going to class and doing the 250 seniors will work that is handed to you. Xia Thao be sitting on the “[What I did was] I showed up to Features Editor floor at the Lan- class and did my work,” said Lundy. sing Center. Ten “All the other students who didn’t will be have a special seat on the stage. show up or do their work made it really Those ten students are the ones easy. Its not that hard to just show up that have become Everett’s valedicto- and do work.” rian and salutatorian. The one’s whom It wasn’t only the hard work and gets the pleasure to sit on the stage are effort that they put in but it was also Helena Wentworth, Edward Young, the time they were willing to put into Justin Lundy, Van Hoang, Vu Ho, Ja- the work. cob McLouth, Elizabeth Curry, Phuoc “[I] put away some time in my days Ngo, Monique Hudson, and Maddie to do my work and study,” said Young. Heck. At the end of the day, while some Being the top ten has its mo- students are sitting on the couch watchments for some, yet it also feels no dif- ing t.v or playing games, there are other ferent for others. who are studying their mind off and “Being in the top ten of the class doing homework. And there are also of 2011 was the proudest moment of some who can find a balance between my life so far,” said Ngo. the two. Since freshman year the top ten “Apply yourself, work hard, and have worked hard at maintaining their don’t forget to have fun in high school grades. so you don’t burn your“I worked really hard and put self out.” all of my effort into my work,” said Helena Wenworth Curry. Future Plans: Will be Their hard work has paid off going to either Michigan State Uniand now they are being recognized versity or New York University with an for it. undecided major. “High-level success starts with Advice: “Turn in every assigna recognition that hard work pays ment, sometimes it’s better to turn off,” said Ngo. it in late and perfect then on Being on the top may seem to time and suck .”
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PHOTO AND ILLUSTRATION KATIE FAY
Edward Young
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Future Plans: Will be going to University of Michigan, on a Marine NROTS scholarship or serve in the Marine Reserves, while attending college. Advice: “Although I worked hard for my grades, I still had fun with friends, played sports, partied, and had a full high school experience. Thus don’t be afraid to have some fun and still work to be the top Vu Ho ten.” Future Plans: Will be
Van Hoang Future Plans: Will be going to Michigan State University majoring in Pre-med. Advice: “Just do your work and if it happens, it happens if not then you shall have great grades and a future to look forward to.”
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Phuoc Ngo
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going to Lansing Community College, majoring in a subject related to chemistry. Advice: “Study ahead, and don’t skip a beat on completing assignments. The classes you pick are also important.”
Future Plans: Will be going to Michigan State University and studying electrical engineering. Advice: “‘No pain, No gain.’ Never, never, never give up. Fight for the person you know you can be.”
Monique Hudson
Nobody that compares to my baby Going strong for two and a half years now, it’s clear that these two love birds are soaring in a breathtaking bliss. After meeting in the summer two years ago at the African American Parade, the former Everett football player looks back on his relationship and states that he is very much in love. Agreeing with her football hunk, Mrs. Head of 2011’s Prom Committee replies by saying, “[you] mean the world to me.” After running track her junior year and being involved in Delta Gyms, she has a lot on her table, but still finds plenty of time for her relationship. Do you think you can figure out who this Everett High School couple is?
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Jacob McLouth Future Plans: Will be going to Michigan State University. Advice: “DO WORK”
Future Plans: Will be going to Central Michigan University and major in psychology and hopefully get her PHD and might minor in Spanish. Advice: “Stay focused on what’s important and keep your grades up but also have fun don’t let school only be about getting good grades because you know you can get the grades if you try so don’t stress over it.”
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Justin Lundy Future Plans: Will be going to Spring Arbor University t study youth ministry and psychology. Advice: “Going to school sucks, and sometimes the work is really hard, but if you want to be in the top ten, it’s something you have to do.”
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Elizabeth Curry Future Plans: Will be going to University of Michigan majoring in Pre-med. Advice: “ You may not think that your grades matter in 9th grade but they do so work hard.” Maddie Heck Future Plans: Will be going to Rochester Institute of Technology. Advice: “Don’t screw up and don’t care about the rank.”
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May 26, 2011
Features
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Students look for great summer getaways
IRMA V ALDES
Just the start of it..sunny days. Party nights, hot guys, water fights. Beachy hair, through the roof and the sun shines non-stop. Some of the hottest and coolest spots to have fun in are in tanned skin. Schools out, summers in. Miami Beach, known all over the world. Summer offers the promise of stress-free days, just being “It’s a fun place to be when is hot outside I like to feel the breeze,” said freshman with your friends, making yourself happy. Keyona Skief. “I love to relax during For other Florida adventures, visit Orlando. Irma Valdes summer,” said freshUniversal Studios, Disney World, and other News Editor men Maurice Stepp. “I amusement parks offer amazing rides to have so much fun hanging with my friends.” suit everyone taste whether you like it simple After a few days of just relaxing, though, or outrageous. students tend to start looking for something When you go to theme parks a way to different to do. There are lots of fun places to re-live childhood memories. Where you can go during summer. It all depends on what your meet princesses or fantastic super heroes and interests are. experience the magic. If you are really into science and you enjoy “It was so exiting to meet Captain America history the place to be is in many cultural and at Universal Studios. He had his own popsicles” historical way to have fun while learning new said junior Taylor Dixon. things. You don’t have to travel far to find a good Amusement can be found closer to home, as museum. Lansing has many museums, like Impreswell. Cedar Point is a three-hour trip, and Michision 5 and the MSU Museum. gan Adventure is less than two hours away. “Museums are fun and a great place to learn,” “I love the feeling you get when you are on top said junior Breyonna Cox. the roller coaster,” said junior Jernorris Pates. “It’s If you enjoy having fun and relaxing or chilling such an amazing rush.” Amusement out with friends, or if getting an awesome tan is more parks are a fun getaway for many in the summer. Parks can be nearby like Michigan’s Adventure or your thing for summer then the place to head is South. Cedar Point, or further away like Disney or Universal Studios. Places like Miami, Florida where the temperature rises
For summer fun near Michigan check out:
Seniors class says final goodbyes to Everett The seniors have endured all four years of high school. They have been through the induction of freshman year, the familiarity of sophomore year, the anticipation of junior year, and all the stresses that come Bre Hoskins with their final days as seniors at Everett. News Editor The class of 2011 has brought so much to Everett this past year with their great personalities and incredible talent. They are leaving behind many fond memories and good times. As they look back, most seniors memories fit into three categories: Friends, Teachers, and After School. After School The seniors all have memories that will stay with them even after they leave Everett. Whether it is the football homecoming dance, winter ball, football games, or dance class performances. “I think prom will be the most memorable event,” said senior Gabby Martinez. “Because it’s our last year here and it’s our last big event.” Dances were a favorite event for more than a few students. “My favorite memory was getting a lap dance at [a school dance],” said senior Parryss Carter-McGee. “It is funny to look back on.” In addition to dances, sporting events brought students together, as well. “I’m going to miss the football games from my freshman year, when [the team] was actually good,” said senior Andrew Sharpe. Friends All the seniors are leaving behind friends that they’ll miss. They’ll be departing from friends that are younger, parting ways with other senior friends, and going on to make new ones at the college of their choice. “I’m really sad to leave behind my friends that aren’t seniors
this year,” said Martinez. “But I’ll keep in touch.” Seniors will also miss the people that endured high school with them. “I will miss seeing everyone I know the most,” said CarterMcGee. Gabby Martinez agrees. “I’m going to miss my friends so much,” said Martinez. “Everyone is moving to different places.” Some seniors are going to miss the traditions they started with their friends. “I’ll miss hanging out on the second floor with my friends every morning before school,” said senior Kosmic Berry Favorite Teachers People say that teachers can be the most important and influential people in a student’s life. The eminent American author William A. Ward once said “The mediocre teacher tells. The good teacher explains. The superior teacher demonstrates. The great teacher inspires.” Everett seniors will definitely be saying goodbye to some exceptional teachers. “I’m [going to] miss Mr. Salias and Mr. Pohlonski because they are such great teachers,” said Carter-McGee. Health teacher, gym teacher and coach Marcelle Carruthers is also a favorite of students. “I’ll miss Carruthers because he gives words of wisdom,” said senior Walaa Machi. The seniors aren’t leaving without giving sage advice. Some words to remember from them.: “To all the seniors next year, keep your grades up; you’re last year is REALLY important,” said Martinez. “Don’t skip!” Machi agrees that skipping is detrimental. “DON’T SKIP because you will fall behind!” said Machi. “Get things done and don’t procrastinate. You will get stressed out [quickly].”
•http://www.michigan.gov
Other sites for fun this summer: •http://www.cedarpoint.com/ •http://www.miadventure.com/
For summer fun all over the US: •http://www.travelchannel.com/
Gas prices put pinch on travel plans Gas prices this year have been rising and rising, and many people are asking a simple Frankie Price question: Why? Reporter According New York Times, the problem is that the price of oil is poised for another run at $100 a barrel after a global economic rebound sent it surging 34 percent since May. That pushes gasoline prices to $4 a gallon by summer in some parts of the country. It’s been over $4 for a month or more for the cost of gas affects other parts of the economy. As gas prices go up, people might not want to drive their cars. If people travel less, it will affect tourism dollars. The costs of shipping will rise, and that will affect the cost of goods at the store. High gas prices would not be a bother if it didn’t go up and down so often. It would be nice if it could stay one price to adjust to it. If gas prices rise to $5 a
gallon more people will ride public transportation during the week and drive their car on weekends to save money. The rise in gasoline prices began to gain steam after political turmoil surged in the Middle East in February. Economists said they expected that Americans would make fewer nonessential trips by car, particularly over Memorial Day or for summer vacation, or would consolidate more trips for work with errands. “It’s going to cut down the amount of travel people and families do in the summer,” said math teacher Elizabeth Ballinger. People do not appear to be cutting back their driving or even their spending as they did in 2008, the last time prices were this high. Three years ago, the average price for a gallon of regular gas reached a peak of $4.11 on July 17, 2008, according to the Oil Price Information Service. Earlier this month, stations saw prices at $4.29 and higher.
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Everett has underground hallways for safety however, go all the way to Old Everett (now the South Precinct), or the Capitol, as rumor has it. “Its only under the school,” says Baldwin. “Its not like Paris. Let’s build a tunnel system stretching from the capitol building all the way to Everett High School!” he joked. It probably would have made the trek for students who participated in the walk-out a lot easier, though. If one is walking through the tunnels, they will come across large rooms and even some mysterious doors. Some of these rooms serve as generator rooms with giant machines that power the school. The doors often lead to other generator rooms. “Its more like a basement than a tunnel system.” said Carver. “[Those generators] are just like the ones in your house, only bigger.” Now that the nuclear threat is past, the tunnels serve as a legendary place for students to try to explore, and as storage for some of the teachers. Old trophies, work-out equipment, unused toilets, even a couple bicycles, old lockers and enough desks to fill a few more EVERETT DOWN UNDER: Beneath Everett, a series of classrooms are strewn about. But why tunnels houses pipes and power for the building. Also, is all this stuff just sitting down there? Justin Lundy
be ushered into these tunnels. Many of the old “Nuclear Shelter” signs still hang on the walls down there. “[If there were a nuclear threat today] it would be up to your
Justin Lundy
For some people, there is nothing more exciting than a little-known underground tunnel system, filled with mysterious maze-like corridors and old junk just waiting to be Justin Lundy explored. Many Reporter students don’t realize that we have that here at Everett. Unfortunately for our future spelunkers, the doors leading to it are locked, and unless you’re an expert lock-picker or are lucky enough to find the door unlocked (which is not completely unheard of), chances of getting in to explore are few and far between. The fact that we have such an amazing structure beneath our school is pretty awesome and the story behind it is very historical and interesting. “It’s mainly for all the pipes and stuff that keep our school running.” says band teacher Ben Baldwin. “If something goes wrong, there’s easy access to them so they’re easier to fix. But it also doubled as a fall-out shelter.” After World War II, Russia and the United States were armed to the teeth with nuclear weapons and it was just a matter of time before one or the other felt compelled to completely annihilate the other, and consequently, the entire planet. As a result, areas were designated “fall-out shelters,” places people could go to protect themselves from the radioactive fallout that would come from an atomic explosion. If you happened to be in Everett during atomic war, you would
discarded items such as desks and bicycles can be found as well. Not many students get the chance to see this undicovered land.
principal whether we would use those shelters.” said maintenance man John Carver. “Your wellbeing while here at Everett is in his hands.” These tunnels stretch beneath the entire school. They do not,
“When they get done using equipment, they keep down here for storage. Who knows if they’ll ever get used again. I’ve been doing a lot of cleaning down here since I’ve been here,” Carver said. “But, the toilets, sinks, and desks are all good. We keep them down here in case one breaks so we can easily replace it.”
Get a head start for your senior year The end of the year is approaching. Seniors will be saying their goodbyes to Everett and Jasmine Lopez their fellow classEntertainment Editor mates. Juniors, on the other hand, will be preparing for what they hope will be the best school year of their life. “This summer, juniors (2012 seniors) start exploring colleges. Look at programs and explore majors. Apply to colleges as soon as possible,” said school counselor Jennifer West. Senior pictures, college applications and saving loads of money to pay senior year expenses will be the highlight of their summer. Also saving money for college is very important during your senior year. When they walk in to school the first day, they will feel powerful because they are finally at the top.
“I’m excited for my senior year because its closer to college and then I can finally be on my own,” said junior Taylor Wysack. After senior year, the decisions and responsibilities of life begin. As many juniors are excited for their senior year, some are scared for the change that comes after you graduate. “I’m scared for college. You have to become an adult, no more childish games,” said junior Connor Bilodeau. Money is a huge issue during senior year. Many things need to be paid for. Cap and gowns are around $50, senior pictures can cost over $300. Prom, what some see as the best night of high school, can cost over $500. Then, there is the cost of a big graduation party. Additional expenses can be include memorabilia such as class rings, yearbooks, and varsity jackets. Also many seniors take advanced placement test to earn credit for college. Advanced placement tests cost about
$86 dollars ($13 for those who have free or reduced lunch). Another problem that seniors have to deal with during their senior year is when they get caught up in “Senioritis” and slack off during their senior year. Counselor Jennifer West says just don’t start skipping. If you start you won’t be able to stop. “It’s hard not fall into the traps of “senioritis” but the important thing is to not lose focus. College admissions can be looking at your attendance and you don’t want to lose your scholarship or chances of going to college,” said West. One way to avoid this trap is to take easy classes, or be the adventurous one and challenge yourself in hard classes that will prepare for college. The best way to stay on top of your game during senior year is to remember that the harder you work and the more you come to school, the faster your year will go and you can finally walk across the stage and congratulate yourself for achieving such
success. Saving the money for college can be very hard. The easy way to save money, is talk to your family, get donations and have money set aside so you know you won’t spend it. Also apply for scholarships, it will definitely help you pay for your college tuition. Money for college is very important. According to money.cnn.com, the sooner you start saving, the better. “I’m going to apply for multiple scholarships to try and alleviate the financial burden of college,” said Junior Raven Odom. No matter how you prepare for your senior year, you have to be ready for the life that comes after you graduate. You will have responsibilities that might threaten to overpower you, but if you plan ahead you can manage your responsibilities, and make it through senior year unscathed.
Senior Pictures: Class of 2012 will again have an opportunity to take their yearbook picture for free.
May 26, 2011
Entertainment
5 days to fight summer break boredom Monday Grab some friends and go for an evening swim! At the East Lansing Family Aquatic Center, from 5:00 - 8:00 p.m. for non East Lansing residents, the fee would only be $7 dollars, and only $4 for East Lansing residents.
Tuesday Feeling energetic & want to burn off some steam? Bring out your inner warrior with a game of Zap Zone, only $4.00 a game! And for those of you who want to just relax with some friends or spend some time with that special someone, before six all movies (unless noted on the celebration cinema website) are only $4 dollars before 6:00 p.m. and $5 after.
Summer time. A time for sun, swimming, sleeping in, shorts, sandals, slushies, and shopAmanda Robertson ping. The beloved Entertainment Editor time that students absolutely cannot wait for. The time that gives students a well needed three month long break from school, three months to do whatever they
Wednesday Try rock climbing? Or any of the other fun things the Y has to offer! If you know any members of the YMCA, you and he/she could go rock climbing at the Westside Community YMCA for only $7 dollars (for teens, $10 for adults, and $5 for children).
please. With such freedom, what would you do? Although some students do have their summer all planned out, a lot of others complain that there’s nothing to do around Lansing. For those students, the Viking Voice is here to help! Below is a calendar that has planned out a week of the summer, with fun, cheap, and different things that you can do to avoid absolute boredom. These things include going to: The Family Aquatic Center, Zap Zone,
13 Celebration Cinema, The Westside Community YMCA, Steak and Shake, Fun Tyme, and NCG Cinemas. On days where you’re full of energy, you could go get some excercise and do things like swimming or rock climbing. And on days where you’re in more of a chill mood, think about going to catch a flick. Contrary to popular belief, there’s lots of things close by, you can do to make sure that your summer is a great one!
Thursday Friday In need of a little snack? Go Get your go-cart on and go to get a shake during Steak & Shake’s Fun Tyme! ½ price happy hour! With the Mini Adventure PackAll shakes and drinks are age, for just $11.00 you can get: ½ price from 2-4 p.m./a.m. (on - 1 Adventure Golf weekdays). So if you wanted to get - 1 Can-Am Kart Ride a shake as a mid-day treat, or even - 10 Adventure Cove Tokens a late-night snack, this deal is just for you! * Just make sure you purchase your mini adventure package before 6:00 p.m.
Saturday/Sun. Are you a student, whose feeling on the lazy side, but still wants to get out of the house and do something? Head over to NCG Cinema and receive $2 off any concession or cafe combo anytime after 6:00 pm. *Just make sure you have your student ID with you.
SUMMER FUN!
The Aquatic Center Zap Zone Westside Community YMCA Steak And Shake Fun Tyme East NCG Cinemas www.cityofeastlansing.com/ www.zap-zone.com/specials/ www.ymcaoflansing.org/westhttp://www.steaknshake. http://www.funtymepark. http://www.ncgmovies.com/ AquaticCenter lansing/ sidecommunityymca.html com/specials/half-price-happy- com/east.html lansing/ (517) 332-4420 (517)327-0747 (517) 827-9670 hour/ (517) 332-7944 Showtimes: (517) 316-9100 or (517) 272-3038 Office: (517) 316-9101 Celebration Cinema http://www.celebrationcinema.com/lansingdiscount (517) 393-7469
Will ‘Cars 2’ extend a beloved franchise, or destroy it? The Disney Pixar movie “Cars” was the tale of a racecar stuck in the middle of nowhere, Josh Dye thinking his racing Reporter career and money and sponsorships were everything, who ended up finding out that life is about friendship and learning to love. The movie is beloved by many, and it faces a big question: will “Cars 2” continue the good rep of its predecessor or will it shatter the image of “Cars” by introducing irrelevant themes and crude humor? “Cars 2” changes the whole storyboard of the first movie, but it might be for the better. They introduce world racing, and worldwide catastrophe. From a “hick town” Radiator Springs, all the way to Tokyo Japan and all around Europe. The heroes Mater and Lightning McQueen travel around the world to stop and evil spy and save the racing world as they know it. Critics at criticapproved.com say this
movie is 10x more suspenseful than the first. The reviewers of this movie gave it 4/5 stars and said it was “A great movie for children and adults, with a great storyline and action beyond imagination. This movie comes to theatre’s everywhere Summer of 2011. If you want a great summer movie to watch with younger kids, nieces, brothers, sisters, cousins. This is the perfect movie for you. “I can’t wait to take my little bro to this,” said freshman Dominique Dye. “He’ll finally shut up and leave me alone about it.”
‘Bad Girls’ take a chance on love in Oxygen’s ‘Love Games’ The Oxygen network show “Love Games (Bad Girls Need Stephanie Dunham Love, Too)” is back for season Reporter two. If you didn’t see season one, it is a reality show based on the girls from the show “Bad Girls Club.” There are three girls and many guys fighting for the love of the one of the girls and a nice trip. There are some who enjoy this type of entertainment, and there are others that could care less. “I don’t think it’s cool how the girls on the show are putting themselves out there like that,” said junior Tre Darby.
The participants have no privacy and are stuck with the cameras all day, showing how they really act, drunk or not. “I do not think the way they act and talk on the show is appropriate for TV,” said junior Jessica Harris. The idea behind the series is that it allows couples to express their true feelings and fall in love, but many think the “love” is all an act. “The show is funny but I think the guys are just there for publicity and the prize at the end,” said Harris. O t h e r viewers think the show is funny because of the drama and because they think the guys aren’t in it for the love. The show is entertaining and is ranked 27 out of 46 reality shows.
Entertainment
Hot weather equals hot music When asked to describe summer in one word, a lot of people would probably stick to cliched answers, like “hot,” or “fun,” or “freedom.” But what about “Music fests?” Ok, so that’s two words, but Justin Lundy it works. Yes, with summer just around the Reporter corner, massive music festivals are going on all across the country, including some right here in Michigan. Common Ground, Big Ticket Fest and Vans Warped Tour are all coming to a field near you. One can practically hear the band tuning up now. Common Ground is set to kick off on July 11 at 5:30 and go on until July 17, with hip-hop artist Trey Songz to headline the first night. If hip-hop’s not your thing, you can rock out with Lynyrd Skynyrd, on July 14, Theory of a Deadman on July 15, or Melissa Etheridge on July 17. If you’re looking for something bigger, and if you’re willing to spend some extra money, Lollapalooza is the way to go. Lollapalooza is a weekend-long music fest at Grant Park in Chicago. It is August 5-7, with artists playing all day, all weekend. Some of the headliners include Eminem, Muse, Coldplay, and Foo Fighters. Other acts that will be appearing, not nearly as famous but definitely worth checking out, include Explosions in the Sky, Ratatat, The Mountain Goats, Sleigh Bells, Best Coast, An Horse, Young the Giant, and The Naked and Famous. Tickets are still available online at www. lollapalooza.com. Another fan favorite that’s coming this summer is the Vans Warped Tour this July 8th at Comerica Park in Detroit. With ticket prices only $44.50 a pop and with tons of major recording artists to see, including The Devil wears Prada, August Burns Red, Paramore, 3Oh3, and We Came As Romans, Warped Tour is not one to miss. Can you say “deal?” I can! I’ll see you guys there! If heavy rock or alternative isn’t your thing, there is always the major Christian music Big Ticket Festival in Ionia June 2325. Bluetree is announced to be playing there Saturday June 25. Skillet will be there, so will RED, and Toby Mac.
One may also enjoy the B93 Birthday Bash, for all you country lovin’ people out there, going on between June 18 - 19 at Motor Sports Park in Martin Michigan. Best part of all, its free! Such country stars as Eric Church, Josh Turner, Thompson Square, Jane Dear Girls, and Corey Smith are set to perform and rock the stage. Besides giant music fests, a lot of bands are coming to Michigan on tour. Here are some of the major bands that are coming to play Michigan over the summer: June 3- Phish is coming to the DTE Energy Music Theatre in Clarkston June 4- Panic at the Disco! and Fun will be at the Fillmore in Detroit June 11- Taylor Swift will be appearing at Ford Field in Detroit. June 13- The kids that took America by storm, Glee, is coming to the Palace of Auburn Hills. June 14- Rihanna also stops by the Palace of Auburn Hills as part of her “Loud Tour.” June 15- Against Me!, Screaming Females, and Lemuria will be at St. Andrews Hall in Detroit or at The Intersection in Grand Rapids the next day. June 16- If you still enjoy boy bands, then you’ll want to be at the Palace of Auburn Hills to see New Kids On The Block and the Backstreet Boys. June 24- Matt and Kim will be at The Majestic Theatre in Detroit along with The Thermals and Autobot. And for all you Country folks out there, Tim McGraw comes to DTE Energy Music Theatre too. June 26- after being postponed for a year because of Bono’s surgery, U2’s 360 Degree tour arrives at Spartan Stadium. Also making an appearance that day is recent breakout band Florence and the Machine. There are many many other artists that will be coming and going throughout the summer months, and more than likely, one or more of them will strike your fancy.
May 26, 2011
2011 shapes up as super summer for movies This summer is shaping up to be the summer of Super Hero. Five BIG MOVIES are coming your way! Thor Opened May 6, 2011 As the son of Odin (Anthony Hopkins), king of Diamond Williams the Norse gods, Thor (Chris Hemsworth) will soon Reporter inherit the throne of Asgard from his aging father. However, on the day that he is to be crowned, Thor reacts with brutality when the gods’ enemies, the Frost Giants, enter the palace in violation of their treaty. As punishment, Odin banishes Thor to Earth. While Loki (Tom Hiddleston), Thor’s brother, plots mischief in Asgard, Thor, now stripped of his powers, faces his greatest threat. Green Lantern Opens June 17 , 2011 A test pilot is granted a mystical green ring that bestows him with otherworldly powers, as well as membership into an intergalactic squadron tasked with keeping peace within the universe. The First Avenger - Captain America Opens July 22, 2011 After being deemed unfit for military service, Steve Rogers volunteers for a top secret research project that turns him into Captain America, a superhero dedicated to defending America’s ideals. X-Men First Class Opens June 2, 2011 In 1963, Charles Xavier starts up a school and later a team, for humans with superhuman abilities. Among them is Erik Lensherr, his best friend... and future archenemy.
COLLAGE BY CLARISSA DEAN
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When it rains in the summer, take a trip to the movies Summer break is coming up and it’s time to start summer plans. How about a good movie? A lot of awesome movies are coming out: the super hero movies, the sequels and the movies for the kids, summer 2011 will have them all. Keora Grace Many are excited about “Transformers: Dark Reporter of the Moon” which comes out July 1. “I can’t wait for the third Transformers to come out even though Megan Fox isn’t going to be in it,” said junior Natalie Ezabele. Another big movie that has students talking is “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, Part 2” which comes out July 15. “I’ll be one of the first people at the movies on July 15 to see Harry Potter,” said junior Emari Loveless. Also coming out are mysterious films, such as “Super 8,” about a group of friends noticing strange things going on in their town after witnessing a train crash. “Super 8 seems like a good movie so I think I’ll go see it,” said junior Jake Fandel. Then kiddy movies such as “Cars 2,” “Mr. Popper’s Penguins,” and “Cowboys & Aliens” are also hitting theaters this summer. “I’m going to like every movie that comes out,” said junior Mohamed Abukar.
X-Men: First Class in theaters June 3
Mr. Popper’s Penguins in theaters June 17
Transformers in theaters July 1
May 26, 2011
Sports
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Home Run For Hope raises money, lets ballplayers shine The annual Home Run for HOPE raised over $3,000 for the HOPE Zach Patrick scholarship Sports Editor fund, and once again gave Lansing athletes a chance to play ball in a professional stadium. The yearly baseball tournament is held downtown at Cooley Law stadium, home of the minor league Lansing Lugnuts. This is the eighth tournament held for the program that raises money for the HOPE Scholars, a program that creates scholarships for Lansing students to attend LCC. The tournament features the Everett Vikings, Eastern Quakers, Sexton Big Reds and Waverly Warriors. The HOPE scholarship program is a collaboration between the Lansing School Districts, the City of Lansing, the Lansing Police Department, Lansing Community College, Michigan State
University and in cooperation with local businesses, including the Lugnuts organization. The H.O.P.E. scholarship program offers Lansing’s youth an opportunity for a college education and better future. Home Run for HOPE is one of many fundraisers throughout the year for the HOPE scholarship fund. “The goal [of the foundation at the beginning] was to raise $2.5 million for the scholarship fund,” said Lansing Police Captain Ray Hall. “We’ve raised over $3 million and counting.” The Eastern Quakers won the tournament this year, beating out Waverly Warriors in the championship game score of 13-3. Everett lost the first game and won the second, taking third place in the four-team tournament. For the Viking players, the chance
to play in Cooley Law stadium was a moment they won’t soon forget. “It’s probably the closest you’re going to get to the major leagues,” said sophomore Santiago Arcaute. “You take the field and you really want to make a play, especially with all those people in the stands.” Amanda Snook, who works with the event, echoed Arcaute’s feelins about the
opportunity for the players. “To get kids on the field of a minor league team is an incredible experience,” said Snook, who is marketing manager for the Lansing Entertainment and Public Facilities Authority. Snook said that over the past eight years, Home Run for HOPE has raised more than $45,000. Some of the money from the event went straight back to Everett. Each school was given a block of tickets to pre-sell for the event, and $2 of every $5 ticket sold in advance went to Everett. Athletic director Cindy Short said that the Lugnuts and organizers do a nice job of making the event a special one for the players. “It’s cool kids get to play at [Cooley],” said Short. “They get their name and picture up on the screen when they bat, just like [the pros].” Playing in a pro stadium made
Arcaute want to play harder. He said he got a base hit hit first at-bat, and caught a fly ball. “I was just thinking, ‘don’t drop it,’” said Arcaute. Hall said that the great games can make people forget that the reason for the tournament is to raise money for a cause. “You have to remind folks...that the event is to raise money,” said Hall. “It’s just great baseball. But it also has a hometown feel where neighbors come out, they exchange a few jokes... the day flies by.” Home Run for HOPE isn’t going away. The event’s success and the positive impact it has in many areas makes continuing the event a simple decision. “It’s a win for the scholarship fund. It’s a win for the stadium and philanthropic outreach. It’s a win for our local athletes,” said Hall.
Sports
“Coaches have worked with the team and pushed them to do their best,” said Skinner. Winning has became a habit for the guys and the secret to their success is to “be confident and have a good team chemistry and have faith,” said sophomore Jaleel Canty. The team chemistry and coaches advice has been a success story. “Their biggest accomplishment is having enough people in different events that score points ,” said Coach Kerry Keyton. The harder they work the better they will be, said sophomore Tywanna Tucker. “I am proud of them for their wins and it seems like the people who doubted them are proud too,” said Tucker. With this being a successful season the team has to work even harder next year because they will be losing seniors that have given it their all. “I want to say join the track team, there is an event for everybody,” said senior Robert Tarpley.
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Members of the boys’ track team have brought something new to the building this year: Stephanie Dunham trophies. Reporter “I feel like we have accomplished something before I graduated,” said senior James Jenkins. The track team has had the best season in recent memory, winning three trophies in the first month of competition. They’ve won a trophy in Kalamazoo one of the biggest meets, another at the Olivet meet and at the Sexton meet. With this being some of the members’ final years on the team, winning is a priority for them. “It feels good to win because it shows all the hard work from the past four years is paying off, “ said senior Jordan Walker Members of the team have worked hard and are working even harder for their success this season. “We aren’t doing anything different we’ve just worked harder,” said senior Michael Skinner.
Stephanie Dunham
Boys’ runners experience success on the track
Above: Anthony White runs in the 4x2 relay. Top Right: Senior Robert Tarpley launches himself in the long jump. He has taken medals for this event this year. Bottom Right: Senior Michael Skinner stretches in preparation for his event.
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May 26, 2011
Stephanie Dunham
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