The Voice: May 25, 2012

The

New Guys 3

Restructuring Lansing schools

5

Prom goes Vegas, baby!

10

Home-grown fashion

Voice The

your school. your voice.

Volume 52, Issue 5 May 25, 2012

NEWS

Tablet computers may take the role of books at Everett AlecXis Glass Online Editor

2 • The Voice • May 25, 2012 • myvikingvoice.com

Editor’s note: Since this story was written, a decision had been made to order Asus tablets instead of Kindle Fires. The status of the plan is currently uncertain.

Check this story at myvikingvoice.com for updates.

Come September, students could be headed to class with a very different kind of textbook. If the trials go well, all students will be using Kindle Fires or Asus tablets instead of textbooks. This spring, Mary Bahl, Everett’s specialized media technician, hopes to have a pilot program in two classes to decide which option is better, Kindle Fires or Asus tablets and if this plan will be in effect soon.

“Then we hope to have the Kindles or tablets in place when school starts in the fall,” said Bahl. “Students will have the same one the following year; freshmen will have the same one all four years.”

Many students and staff are wondering how and why this sudden supply of resources came about.

“It all started with the need of books.

Cousins said that in lieu of books, we should have Kindles,” said Bahl.

Students have a list of other things they think should be a higher priority than Kindles.

“We don’t even know how to take care of our school. We don’t need Kindles,” said senior Taylor Deberry.

Library media specialist Renee Lyons sees the new technology as beneficial and versatile.

“I’m getting used to mine and I see many advantages. I am certainly an advocate for it,” said Lyons.

Many of the books in Everett High School are ten years old or older. With the Kindles, all the information will be updated.

Classes will be able to connect globally to subject areas. “Everyone will become the teacher,” said assistant principal Carl Word.

The Kindle Fires are equipped with WiFi, access to 19 million movies, TV shows, songs, magazines, and books, apps, and a vibrant color touchscreen. According to Bahl, this specific Kindle was chosen because of the color screen.

In order for students to get a full effect in math and science classes, students will need color graphics.

“The science department will be able to use graphs and charts; [it could] possibly help with the MME,” said science teacher Stephanie Robinson.

However, there are still many worries from other staff members. The idea of theft and the safety of the Kindles is a big issue.

“I think it’s a great concept but a bad idea because of security and accountability,” said public safety officer Curtis Couthen.

To reduce the possibility of breaking, Bahl has looked into cases with straps to wear across the body so that students are less apt to drop them.

“There are always downfalls with technology.

They could be lost, dropped, or stolen,” said Bahl. “We are also thinking of insurance for students.”

There are also financial benefits to this plan and in the long run, the school will save money.

One ebook can be downloaded on six different devices instead of buying textbooks for six students.

“The premise behind it is they’re cost effective. The school will not have to replace them every year like books,” said Couthen.

Many staff members are still worried about the change and the financial aspect.

“We don’t have the money for upkeep when they break,” said English teacher Robin Elliot.

“Technology can’t always replace books.”

Administrators still have worries about the safety of the Kindles. Word says the Kindles will have to become a part of Everett’s culture.

“If you don’t educate people on how they are to be used and who’s accountable, it will be a waste of money,” said Word.

The apps that could be downloaded on the Kindle are endless, such as, Facebook, Netflix, and Pandora. This has some staff concerned.

“It could be a distraction with inappropriate apps and games,” said accounting teacher Gregory Clugston.

Bahl says that the students won’t be able to go to Amazon and download apps, but they can go to most websites. However, there are many other benefits about the Kindles.

According to staff, the Kindles would be an excellent resource for ESL students and students that are partially deaf or blind.

“The Kindles are text-to-speech enabled and can read to them. This is a major plus for ESL students,” said Bahl. “And hearing impaired students will have everything right in front of them.”

Details are still being worked out, but if Bahl has her way the Kindles will be in effect next fall.

Senior pays way to Thailand with egg rolls

Vasee Xiong a smart and talented student with bright ideas raises money for mission trip to Thailand by selling delicious egg rolls.

Alexus Root Business Manager

T

he smell of egg rolls fills the hallways. You didn't realize how hungry you were until this moment. By the time you reach senior Vasee Xiong or one of her friends, there's no doubt what is about to happen: you reach into your wallet and pull out some money. What many students who support Xiong don't know is that these are egg rolls for a mission.

Xiong is selling egg rolls to help fund her upcoming trip to Thailand. She is raising money to pay to go with her church on a retreat and conference called "Yexus Fest" (in Hmong, that means "Jesus Fest"). It is the first conference of its kind being held in Thailand, and there will be missionaries and pastors. When Xiong arrives in Thailand with her church, she will go

to orphanages and walk the beautiful streets of Thailand and tell people about God and her beliefs, spreading the word about Jesus.

The trip is June 20 - July 11, and Xiong needs to raise $1,700 in order to participate. She will be selling the egg rolls until she graduates.

Xiong said a lot of people from Everett support her. "Miss West was a lot of help, she sent out an email to all of the teachers about my egg rolls and the staff has bought more egg rolls than students."

A lot of people love Xiong's egg rolls.

"They are fresh and hot...they taste homemade, I have bought five," said sophomore Serena Wade.

"I think it’s really great what Vasee is doing, and I’m going to try to support her every time I see her selling egg rolls," said Senior Chase Moreno.

NEWS

RESTrUCTUrING: PUTTING THE pIECES TOGETHEr Instead of there 8th graders] in is communicating to the community “The reconfiguration being Advanced the fall,” said members why the reconfiguration is Path programs at Lonzo. “This way taking place. There are many things plan is so enormous; Next year, the main office will each high school, we will have the that need to happen before fall. we wanted to do it look very different: Everett’s principal all advanced path “The biggest challenge right blueprint, and all and two assistant principals will all be students will be we have to do is now is moving classrooms into other in phases.

This gives gone. at Woodcreek follow the plan.” schools,” said Caamal Canul. “We have Principal Howard Cousins, along E l e m e n t a r y . everyone a year to plan Not only do to move computers, smart boards, with other principals in the district, Word will be the Gear, Lonzo, and band instruments, and chairs.” and make sure Everett is were asked to reapply for their principal at the new Cheadle have lots For Everett, at least for the fall, the positions. He chose not to reapply, and Woodcreek. ready to receive the 7th- of experience challenge is more about the transition Gardner principal Norm Gear will be in the Lansing to new leadership. Many students at “I’m totally 8th graders.” filling the position in the fall. Assistant excited for my new School District, Everett are familiar with Gear because principal Ella Dickson is moving position. [Alternative -Superintendent Yvonne they also have of his position at Gardner. to Sexton, and assistant principal education] is a better worked with each “My hopes and expectations Camaal Canul Carl Word will be principal of the fit for me. It is my other. for next year are to serve the needs Advance Path alternative education passion,” said Word.

“I have of all students, help students excel program. Steven Lonzo from Sexton Many staff members think Word worked with both Mr. Gear and academically, physically, and mentally, High School and Susan Cheadle from is perfect for this position. Word states Mr. Lonzo before and look forward and to make school a fun, challenging, Otto and Gardner Middle School he has a vision of making the students to working with them again,” said and enjoyable learning environment,” will be filling the assistant principal of Woodcreek a family.

Cheadle. said Gear. positions.

Many community members “He will do great. He connects After 17 years in the district, Spanish teacher Schafer-Brown is with and inspires the students, but at are wondering why Everett is not Gear is looking forward to his new looking forward to the change. the same time, he’s not afraid to let welcoming 7th and 8th graders until position.

“For me, it’s bittersweet. I feel I them know the truth,” said Schafer- the fall of 2013.

“I believe that I was placed at have a good relationship with Mrs. Brown.

“The reconfiguration plan is Everett because it was the decision Dickson and Mr. Word,” said SchaferMany students and faculty so enormous; we wanted to do it in of the interview team to assign a Brown. “I have seen both of them members are worried about the phases,” said Caamal Canul. “This candidate that works well with students, grow in their professions.” change; however, according to English gives everyone a year parents, staff, and Some teachers have concerns teacher Deborah Lamb-Babcock, the to plan and make “...we really don’t the community,” said about how the change will affect change will depend on how the staff sure Everett is ready Gear. have a year to the Lansing School District and the bonds. to receive the 7thAccording to students. prepare for the switch Caamal Canul, the “I am going to be highly curious 8th graders.”

“I’m nervous because there was to see how [the new principals] enjoy T h i s at Everett because interview team was no rhyme or reason to how [the new Everett,” said Lamb-Babcock. “And reconfiguration will constructed of 13-15 assistant principals] were chosen,” how they will interact with students.” lead to the closure we will most likely people, and they had said English teacher Lonzo has of four elementary to work quickly.

Robin Elliot.

“My hopes...for next been employed in schools and reduce be working with the “All decisions “It’s nice to have other [high schools] costs for the Lansing the Lansing School regarding principals year are to serve the District since 1999 School District. consistency.” needed to as they implement by April 30beby made Superintendent needs of all students, and states that he “There is no state Yvonne Caamal loves it at Sexton. money to keep the plan in the fall.” law,” said Camaal help students excel He Canul said that considers schools open that Incoming AP Steven Canul. “That’s a very the positions were academically, physically, Sexton his family. are only working at short timeline. The posted, and the Lonzo.

“But, I’m fifty percent,” said reconfiguration plan and mentally, and to happy to have Camaal Canul. principals had an was voted on March opportunity to apply After being in the Lansing School 22.” make school a fun, an opportunity to other schools. to practice my District for five years, Cousins said it Some staff members think the challenging, and “I’m hoping the profession and was time for him to move in a different reconfiguration can be positive if new leadership will done for the right reasons. enjoyable learning work with students, direction. lead to a successful “[I didn’t reapply] because it’s time and if Everett is “I hope the change is for the environment.” year,” said Caamal where I am placed, for changes. I don’t know where I’m students, and not adult egos,” said Canul. “We hope -Incoming Principal then let’s get at it,” moving on to,” said Cousins. “But Cousins. to see discipline there is something out there for me.” said Lonzo.

According to Camaal Canul, Norm Gear [problems] reduced Cousins said that change is not it is most important that students D e s p i t e and student concerns from easy, and it is hard for everyone are happy. Cheadle believes the achievement increased.” staff members, Lonzo hopes next involved. restructuring will prove to create As an Everett alum, Cheadle is year’s transition is smooth.

“The school will have to adjust to positive change. excited and looking forward to her “The way I see it, we really don’t the new administration, and the new “I am hopeful that I am able to be new position at Everett in the fall. have a year to prepare for the switch at administration will have to adjust to a positive support for both the staff “I did not have any say in the Everett because we will most likely be the school,” said Cousins. and students at Everett...as we all placement at Everett next year, but I working with the other [high schools] Caamal Canul states that one work toward academic achievement,” am very pleased with this assignment,” as they implement the plan [7th and challenge about the reconfiguration said Cheadle. said Cheadle.

3 • The Voice • May 25, 2012 • myvikingvoice.com

AlecXis Glass Online Editor

OPINION

Voice The

3900 Stabler Road Lansing, MI 48910 (517)755-4472 myvikingvoice.com myvikingvoice@gmail.com

THE STAFF EDITORS

Jasmine Lopez-Niblock

Jacob fandel

(Editor-in-Chief, News)

‘Resetting for success’ recipe for disaster The board thinks that the “Reset for Success” plan will change things in Lansing for the better, but making the high schools 7-12 buildings is the wrong move.

Girls are too young and naive, boys are too confused, and there’s not enough room. It’s not fair to those coming here in the next few years. Their experience will be very different, and probably not a good kind of different.

Think about it. When you’re a young lady and turning 12 or 13, you’re in the process of finding yourself. Some girls are over weight, hitting puberty and just now realizing what they’re becoming. Then all of a sudden to be placed in front of

grown graduating men to be looked at?

That’s disgusting. Young girls are naive and don’t decipher between what “love” and “lust” is. Parents of children entering a high school at the age of 12 have a right to be upset.

Boys are way too confused. Some boys are too cocky, and will try to flirt with upperclassmen. Boys don’t mature as quickly as girls. Even now, you see guys hitting on random girls, running through halls, and being complete idiots... and those are highschoolers! Next thing you know there will be boys fighting in the bathrooms, pulling down girls’ shorts, and all the things that come without having maturity. It’s just dumb.

Finally, there’s no room. Already, students shove and push their way to class in five minutes, trying to get around the geniuses that stand in the middle of the hall. Unless Everett plans on adding more buildings and creating more space, it is unclear how everyone will fit.

It has been suggested that students will be separate, but if they separate wings that means that the students already here would be squished and pushed together even more.

Why can’t the Lansing school district just make a separate structure for young kids and save money that way? Send them all to one school together instead of spread out or instead of pushing students

into a school that already doesn’t have enough breathing space. Many students are saying no to being squished in with young people. The school board should say no, too.

On the other hand, people who are all for the “Reset For Success” say it will help middle schoolers with the big transition that comes with entering high school. They would already be used to the high school and familiar with how high school works.

There may be some truth in that, but it’s still a bad choice at the end of the day.

Seventh graders are too young to be in the same building with seniors. Nothing can change that.

‘Act like a lady, think like a man’ narrow concept 4 • The Voice • May 25, 2012 • myvikingvoice.com

Bre Hoskins Features Editor

There is a saying: “Females have to act like a lady, but think like a man” in order to save their hearts in a relationship.

The recently released movie Think Like A Man tells the story of friends that try to change their relationships based on an advice book written by Steve Harvey.

However, their significant others find out and try to flip things back around.

Many females think they have this way of thinking down to a science, and are capable of being “players” like guys.

The biggest and most well-known example of how men think is Tiger Woods and his infidelity scandal. He had multiple mistresses and thought he could get away with it but then it turned into a huge scandal and almost completely ruined his career. However, many girls take the definition different ways.

“To act like a lady means be polite and soft and feminine and all that good stuff, but to think like a man you have to have a hard attitude on the inside but not show it. The saying means know the game basically,” said senior BreAnna Williams.

Girls boast of their ability to outsmart men and getting away with the same things guys usually do.

“I’ve been played before and I learned from that experience,” said freshman Kaci Mo. “Now my heart can’t get hurt because I never really let guys have it.”

However, many guys strongly disagree that females are capable of truly thinking like a man.

“Girls just can’t think like guys because they aren’t wired like that,” said senior Nick Anderson. ‘‘They’re not men therefore they can’t think like one.”

Some females feel like it isn’t necessarily about “thinking like a man” but just playing

it smart.

“Your [femininity] is your power.

Before you [give it up] to anyone, make sure he respects you as a woman and not just your body but your mind and heart,” said senior Taylor Macklin-Sherrer.

It’s hard to tell if females can truly think how guys do. They can try to imitate the bad behaviors of a seemingly emotionless guy, but when it comes down to it, actually having the mind-set of an average male seems almost impossible.

“Not all guys are players that’ll treat you like crap,” said senior Jurell Barnes. “I think that saying is dumb because it really only talks about how the bad guys think, not the ones that will actually treat you right. Act like a lady and think like one too.”

Guys are usually cast in a negative light when it comes to fidelity and relationships in general. Female are constantly quoting that “all men are the same” and “guys are dogs,” In movies, guys tend to be the cheaters or abusive, while the women just look like damsels in distress. So girls try to emulate these negative stereotypes of guys behaviors in order for their heart not to be tampered with. They call themselves players and think they understand the “game.”

“Girls aren’t good players because half of girls don’t even know the meaning,” said senior Rashawn Anderson. “But the other half that do are heartless.”

Keora Grace (Opinion) Bre Hoskins (Features) Frankie Price (Photo) Azalea Miller (Photo) Irma Valdes (Entertainment) Estefania Santamaria (Sports) AlecXis Glass (On-Line) Jasmine McCullough (On-Line)

Alexus Root (Business) Serena Skief (Copy) REPORTERS Da’Shawn Bibbs Brooke Burns Tyler Edwards Chasity Nelson Cameron Reed Meeshon Rogers Victoria Smith Chelsey Stewart-Wilson Jacob Venable Jeff Walker Sarah Warriner Mariah Wells Lamesha Williams

Advisor

Chad Sanders

Mission Statement

The 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 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.

od esi gn : Ja ke

5 • The Voice • May 25, 2012 • myvikingvoice.com

Log

Photos by Chad Sanders

Class of 2012

Fan d el

Class of 2012

WhatWillYouMiss About Everett?

Serena Skief Copy Editor

6 • The Voice • May 25, 2012 • myvikingvoice.com

It's almost time for this year's seniors to say goodbye.

When they think back on things they'll miss about Everett, they usually fall into three categories: people, activities, and those who say that they won't miss a thing.

Every year seniors have to say goodbye to the school, teachers, fellow students, and administration. After four years of knowing the people you see and the area you're in, it's almost time to get used to new people and adapt to a new area.

First, most seniors said what they would miss most is the people. For some, saying goodbye to the people they've become close with and the teachers they've come to love will be difficult. "[I'm going to miss] my friends and some of my teachers because, once we leave here, we are going to be starting a new life and we might not see them again," said senior Kortnee Richardson.

After coming to the same place five days a week for four years it becomes like your second home. You know where you’re going every day and who you will see. So you’re not just saying goodbye to your teachers and friends, you’re saying to goodbye to the place that you have became so familiar with.

"I'm going to miss the stability of high school. Knowing what’s coming every day," said senior BreAnna Williams.

Throughout high school there are lots of activities to get involved in, like sports, 21st century, and clubs. You start to form relations with certain people and some of them become like family.

"I'm going to miss my teammates and the awards that I get," said senior Tony Norris. "Just the family that I developed."

Finally, there are those who said they won't miss a thing.

For some students coming to school was never something that they wanted to do. Just being at school made them miserable and they always wanted to be somewhere, so finally being able to leave is a very good thing.

"I can honestly say that I’m not going to miss a thing about being here at Everett," said senior Magda Anjou.

When everything finally comes to an end, even those eager to put Everett behind them might find certain things about coming to school that they will miss.

"I think you don't realize how much you’re going to miss coming here until you’re gone," said senior Asia Christian.

Class of 2012

Mock Elections

Funniest Laugh

James Curry

Nicest Accent

Pedro Alviarez

Irma Valdes

Clumsiest

Connor Bilodeau

Jasmine Lopez

2 0 1 2

Most Likely To Win A Game Show

Doug Hissong

Malinda Sanders

Sarah Warriner

Taylor Wysack

Funniest Dancer

Alex Mack

Tre Darby

Nicest Car

Kelly Willard

Ismael Gonzalez

Silliest Teacher

Mrs. Marrs

Mr. Clugston

7 • The Voice • May 25, 2012 • myvikingvoice.com

Most Likely To Be President

Raven Odom

Jasmine LopezNiblock and Mariah Wells Graphics by Pedro Alviarez

Class of 2012

8 • The Voice • May 25, 2012 • myvikingvoice.com

1. Raven Odom (Val) University of Michigan to study medicine in pursuit of a Doctorate degree.

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not to your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him and he will direct your paths.” Proverbs 3:5-6

2. Amanda Robertson (Val) University of Michigan to study Psychology on Pre-Med track in pursuit of a Doctorate degree.

“In ten years I see myself completing my residency somewhere out of state.”

3. Thanh Le (Val) Michigan State University to study medicine in pursuit of a PhD. “If we don’t plan knowledge when young, it will give us no shade when we are old” -Lord Chesterfield

4. James Curry (Val) Michigan State University to study Political Theory and Constitutional Democracy.

“For the knowledge of God we sacrificed our own immortality” -Snow Cornelius Jacobs

5. Vasee Xiong (Val) Michigan State University to study nursing in pursuit of a PhD. “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.”

Matthew 19:26

6. AlecXis Glass (Val) Baylor University to study English and Business Admin on Pre-Med track.

“In ten years I see myself two years out of medical school continuing my trauma residency in a city like Manhattan.”

7. Elizabeth Taylor (Val) Michigan State University to pursue Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing then PhD in Neonatal Practices.

“In ten years I see myself on the neonatal track, on my way to becoming a top neonatologist at hospitals country wide.”

8. Nicholas Anderson (Sal) Ferris State University for PrePharmacy then pursue PhD in pharmacy.

“In ten years I see myself as a pharmacist with a family.”

9. Pahoua Chang Lansing Community College with plans to eventually earn Masters Degree at 4 year university.

“To wish you were someone else is to waste the person you are.”

TOP 10 SENIORS Four years of focus and determination had paid off for seniors, who will walk across the stage at the Lansing Center next Sunday. For the Top Ten, it represents a special achievement. Here is a look at the tops in the class academically, and where they’re headed in the fall.

Each of them were asked to answer one of the following questions: 1. What will you miss about Everett?

2. Where will you see yourself in ten years?

3. What is a quote that has meaning for you?

10. Velnique Bowman Howard University or Clark Atlanta to pursue masters in Computer Science Engineering.

“My favorite memory from Everett was the epic food fight my freshman year.”

Opinion

Do internet causes really bring about change?

Not too long ago this year, a San Diego non-profit advocacy group called Invisible Children launched a video campaign called “Kony 2012.” The campaign was meant to raise awareness of the abductor and child exploitationist Joseph Kony and encourage his arrest by US forces. The Kony 2012 video quickly reached 80 million views and was a trending topic on Twitter. It made a huge splash on Tumblr and Facebook by trying to make Kony “famous.” The term “famous” is usually used to describe a Hollywood celebrity, but in this case the word is being used in a different way; famous for something really bad.

However, as quickly as it caught on, the buzz about Kony quickly died, and took the back burner when the next scandal happened. Trayvon Martin, a 17-year-old Floridian who many say was unjustly gunned down while walking home, took the limelight with his unfortunate death and the injustice of his situation.

On personal blogs and Twitter, posts about different causes and ideas are constantly popping up. Through the internet, people like Kony and Trayvon Martin have become very popular, very quickly.

However, the hype about online causes soon fades. People care for a week or two, but then quickly move on to the next big thing or idea.

Many people feel that these causes are eye-opening and make them feel for the victims or ones in need, yet feel that their role in helping is limited.

“I saw the Kony ad on Facebook,” said dance instructor Karen Knabel. “But I feel like ‘oh man, this makes me feel sad...man...’ and that’s all I can say. I can share it with people and they can share it with other people, but other than that my help won’t go very far.”

Senior Nikayla Williams agrees.

“I understand that we all have a voice and if we stand together we can in essence make a difference,” said Williams.

“But when it comes to stuff like this, we can’t let the government or people that can truly make a difference know [just] by tweeting about it or sharing it on Facebook.”

However, other people feel that posting videos online and sharing with Facebook friends is exactly the way to go.

Some feel that technology is a great way

to make your voice heard and bring important issues to light.

“The young generation really can make a huge difference,” said social studies teacher Ben Billings. “Even as little as ten years ago something like this wouldn’t even be out. By using technology and simply by making that video and posting it, that guy made a

Internet

activism:

(also known as digital campaigning,

digital

activism,

online organizing, electronic advocacy, cyberactivism, ecampaigning and e-activism) is the use of electronic communication technologies such as social media, especially TOP: Trayvon Martin and George Zimmerman LEFT: from Kony 2012 Campaign.

Twitter and Facebook, YouTube, e-mail, and podcasts for various forms of activism to enable faster communications by citizen movements and the delivery of local infor-

huge

difference.”

Some people feel that issues such as the Kony campaign are sad, but aren’t as easy of a fix as liking it on Facebook makes it seem. “[Upon seeing that] you’re shocked, but it seems like there is more to it,” said government teacher James Toby. “Kony didn’t just originate. He had to have come from somewhere. Look at Sudan or Somalia. How is he getting weapons? Where did he get guns? How has he lured children in? Africa doesn’t make guns, Europe does. Either though expressed or implied, they’re helping with the material.”

For Toby, causes that people can really make a difference in are the ones that affect them personally.

“We have to help locally before we can help internationally,” said Toby.

“There are enough African powers to get help to stop him. Africans need to take care of African problems. America needs to fix America.”

Toby added that he feels individuals are unable to affect change alone.

“We don’t have the power to make the powers listen,” said Toby.

However, school social worker Derrick Ampey said he thought that individuals, if they work together, can have an impact.

“You have to get the youth involved,” said Ampey. “Like when there was the ‘We are the world’ campaign, a group of [teenagers] went to the UN and spoke up for what they believed in and they really made a difference.”

mation to a large audience. Internet technologies are used for cause-related fundraising, community building, lobbying, and organizing.

9 • The Voice • May 25, 2012 • myvikingvoice.com

Bre Hoskins Features Editor

Features

Students find flair for fashion Alexus Root Reporter

Jordans, Nike, Adidas, Abercrombie and Fitch, and Hollister Co. They all started somewhere, at one point in time they were all just really great ideas that made it big. Everett students past and present have dreams of seeing their designs in shops around the country, as well. Here is a look at a few of them.

Crazy Cartel

10 • The Voice • May 25, 2012 • myvikingvoice.com

Alumnus Dylan Betcher graduated in 2010 and went on to LCC and had always wanted to make a clothing line with his name on it. Starting his sophomore year it went from a thought to really putting into effect. He talked to his best friend and Everett grad Manuel Fores, who Betcher says was trustworthy and would make a perfect business partner. They came up with Crazy Cartel, which represents all the fun and energetic groups of people who want to live on the edge.

“We want to take the crew life, the group life and show it through our clothing,” said Betcher. He explained that he wanted to bring a modern look, a fresh new idea and concept to clothing. Their clothes aren’t directly targeting any specific age group, they say they’re for everyone from toddlers on up. His brother Jason Betcher, also a graduate from Everett, helped the duo come up with the name.

Cartel means a group of people who share the same interests and crazy means fun and energetic. As of now the T-shirts range from $15-$30, the outerwear and cardigans are $30-$50. They are being sold online and by supportive friends.

This is just the beginning for Crazy Cartel; they will be selling more graphic shirts, hoodies, snap backs, cardigans and much more.

“Right now we’re just trying to get our name out there,” said Fores, who explains that he is excited for what they created and what they have to look forward to.

You can order clothes off of their website www.CrazyCartel.com or visit them on Facebook at facebook.com/CrazyCartelClothing and Twitter at twitter. com/CrazyCartel

J&A

Senior JaBarie Anderson is in the process of making his own clothes and has many ideas that are different from other brands. This difference is what he believes will launch his clothes into fashion. His brand name is J & A, and it contains two lines: Kay for women, and E & P (Empress & Prince) for males.

“Everything is done by me, I sew everything myself,” said Anderson. He explained that his clothes are different because they are made out of suit material with a dressy casual feel. Not many people dress up on a daily basis, but Anderson believes it is a way to be sophisticated in a casual way. He is targeting the younger people from age 15 to early 20’s. Prices range from $20 to $30, but as his clothes get more popular prices will go up. “No pocket blockers, only pocket makers,” said Anderson playfully. He went on to explain that he wants people to have to work to buy his clothes because as much time he puts into making and designing them, he wants people to take just as much time and work to pay for J&A.

Moneyball

In 1995 Desmond Ferguson graduated from our very own Everett High School and has always had an undeniable love for basketball. After playing in the NBA he didn’t want to stop being a part of basketball, he wanted to stay involved so he created Moneyball. The phrase “Moneyball” comes from when Desmond Ferguson would shoot his teammates would shout out “Moneyball.” Ferguson described his years at Everett as four of the best years of his life. The first time he got the idea of Moneyball he was playing professional

basketball in 2000 - 2001 and it was the idea of creating new uniforms that set off visions of what could be when he mixed a love of basketball and a little creativity.

So starting out with uniforms they began making T-shirts, wrist bands and sweatsuits and more. “Life is not a lay up better get your jay up, is a little something we say here at Moneyball. Life is not easy you have to step your game up to make it in life,” said Ferguson.

Another quote Ferguson says he lives by is “You don’t have to be sick to get better,” meaning you can always better yourself. “This is just the beginning... my goal is to be the #1 sportswear in the country, and most definitely try to give back to not only Everett High School but Lansing.”

Although Moneyball’s name is getting bigger the prices will stay the same for the most part. Prices range from $2.00 wrist bands to $80.00 sweatsuits with the T-shirts lying in the middle at $12.00$22.00. “I never want to out price anyone, I want to always have competitive prices.”

Not only does Moneyball sell clothes and uniforms but Ferguson also hosts camps. May 12-13 is the Moneyball shoot out and also another camp at Everett June 18-20. Find out more about and purchase Moneyball at www.moneyball.com

PELF

You have seen it on walls, and seen it on tee-shirts, and even seen it written on a desk or two: PELF. Made by Junior Antonio Gonzalez, meaning wealth and riches.

He found the word on the internet and was interested and decided to put it on a shirt. Gonzalez gives out PELF stickers and they can be seen on walls and windows and chairs and even around town.

Some have seen it on a phone case from a student that goes to Holt High School, on the walls of target and even on the CATA. No one really knows who puts them every where but it sure is a unique way of advertising.

Lack of sleep can cause many issues for teens Azalea Miller Reporter

“I’m so tired.”

“Dude I was up so late last night” “I’ve fallen asleep in like every class.”

Lack of sleep is a frequent issue with teens. But many adults and teens fail to understand how much of a necessity sleeping is. According to the Mayo Clinic, everyone has a certain ‘internal clock’ called Circadian rhythms. These rhythms allow children to naturally fall asleep around 8 or 9 p.m. But puberty changes a teen’s internal clock, delaying the time he or she starts feeling sleepy — often until 11 p.m. or later. Staying up late to study or socialize can disrupt a teen’s internal clock even more.

On average, students are supposed to receive nine hours of sleep every night to have enough energy to start the next day. Sophomore Rodricus McDuffey admits that he doesn’t get close to that amount.

“I got four and a half hours of sleep last night; I usually get six and a half,” said McDuffey. “Yeah, I don’t get a lot of sleep.”--Homework, chores, family problems and socializing can all affect sleep. sleep. A routine when you start to drift off to sleep is a good idea if you have trouble sleeping.

“I usually watch TV until my eyes start to get tired and then I just turn it off and go to sleep,” said senior Malinda Sanders.

Since students love to listen to music, that is also a way to lullaby yourself to sleep.

“I have to listen to soft music, it usually puts me to bed,” said junior Starr

Allen.

But is it a big deal to not reach your nine hours? According to Penn State University’s Dr. Wei-Shin Lai, “poor sleep can contribute to weight gain, headaches, high blood pressure, diabetes, depression, an impaired immune system, and attention deficit disorder.”

And the negatives don’t end there; it can affect others, as well.

“More than 1,500 deaths a year are caused by drivers falling asleep at the wheel,” writes Lai. But what if you are having trouble sleeping? Helpguide.org lists seven tips for better sleep: 1: Keep a regular sleep schedule.

Wake up at the same time everyday, and go to bed at the same time everyday.

2: Naturally regulate your sleepwake cycle. Increase your sunlight during the day so your body realizes that sun means you need to stay awake and darkness means bedtime.

3: Create a relaxing bedtime routine. Keep the noise down and make sure your comfortable in your own bed.

4: Eat right and get regular exercise. Start your actual ‘wind down process’ after dinner. And try to stay away from eating late night snacks. If you smoke, quit it.

5: Get anxiety and stress in check. Mental meditation, and deep easy breathing.

6: Ways to get back to sleep. Stay out of your head! Don’t worry or stress.

Focus on relaxing not forcing yourself back to sleep.

7: Know when to see a sleep doctor. If none of these work see your local doctor.

Entertainment

The West Coast has always have a good line up of rappers that are ready to make a statement, and one rapper in particular is ready to bring the gangster back in to rap. He goes by the name of ScHoolboy Q, he’s signed to an independent rap label called Top Dawg Entertainment and he’s back with his new sophomore album Habits and Contradictions. Some people feel that it’s a little bit similar to label mate Kendrick Lamar’s Section.80, but what separates the two is that ScHoolboy Q talks about the rough life he had facing gang life, drugs, family, and different women he used to hang with. The album is filled with clever lyrics, amazing production, and the attitude ScHoolboy Q brings on every song.

The album starts off with a stringy guitar sample on the song “Sacrilegious,” which is about a man who keeps contradicting himself. He goes to church and wants to kill someone right after, the song may sound a little bit

creepy to listen to but it does explain how a troubled person can go to the extreme and just end it like that.

There are other edgy lyrics in many of his songs on the album such as “Raymond 1969” (“They say the gangsta’s back gon’ give God a heart attack/ red eye insomniac/ let’s get this f***a live”).

Even though the album is made from a gangster point of view, there is also songs with a calmer tone such as “Grooveline pt. 1” featuring Dom Kennedy and Curren$y. You can hear how ScHoolboy Q changes his mood up and his lyrics (“Book you a ticket so we can kick it/ make an escape somewhere we’ll be safe/ close your purse I got my Visa on me/ pick out whatever it ain’t s*** but money/ turn you to my honey”).

ScHoolboy Q has everything it takes to make a name for himself. He has the style, lyrics, charisma, and the drive for him to be one of the best rappers in the game. He may not be well known in several states, but he made his name on the West Coast and this album should change the perspective of certain people. I would rate this album 9/10.

Fairy tales make comeback, no longer just for kids Irma Valdes Entertainment Editor

Lately fantasy fairy tales that we all grew up reading as bedtime stories are taking a twisted turn. From TV shows to Hollywood stories like Snow White, fairy tales are everywhere this year. A couple of years back there was A Cinderella Story, Rogers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella, and Another Cinderella Story, but it seems that everyone had enough Cinderella and they moved on by taking another princess. Now, it’s time for Snow White to shine.

“I love Cinderella but I can’t keep up [with all the different movies],” said senior Brianne Spare.

Hollywood has two Snow White stories for 2012, starting with one that has already made it to the big screen: Mirror Mirror. This June, Snow White and the Huntsman will make it to the big screen. Mirror Mirror seems to be the most popular one because of movie legend Julia Roberts, but Twilight fans are excited for Kristen Stewart’s role in Snow White and the Huntsman.

“Mirror Mirror is my top pick, I don’t like Kristen’s acting,” said Spare.

There are also many plans for new movies like Beauty and the Beast, being re-made by Guillermo del Toro into a new version called Beauty. The part of Belle was given to Harry Potter’s Emma Watson.

But movies are not the only ones that are making a come back; TV shows are also catching on the trend. Once Upon a Time, an ABC TV show, focuses on Snow White but manages to include in each episode another beloved fairy tale story, making us not want to miss a single one. Once Upon a Time is about an evil queen, Snow White’s step-mom, who sends

all the characters to a small town in the real world called Storybrooke, a town from which they can’t escape. Snow White had a daughter name Emma that seems to be their only hope to get them get back, but first she must believe.

Rumpelstiltskin tells Snow White that “everything we love will be ripped from us while we suffer for all eternity; no more happy endings.”

Once Upon A Time is one of the most magical shows on TV, from the writers that brought you LOST. The season finale for the show premiered Sunday May 13 with a mindblowing ending to its story. Evil has finally been revealed and Emma started to believe thanks to her son Henry. The magic had just invaded Storybrooke, making good and evil powerful again.

“That finale was amazing. I can’t wait till the second season,” said Brianne Spare.

Now all we can do is wait for the magical fairy tale to come back with its anticipated return for season two. For the meantime, the first season DVD will be available on August 28 to enjoy until season two premieres this fall.

Meeshon Rogers Reporter

Men in Black III NOW PLAYING On May 25, Men in Black III comes to theaters. The last Men in Black II: Back in Black came out in 2002.

In this film agent J (Will Smith) travels in time to find Agent K (Tommy Lee Jones) and stop an alien from changing history.

The Dark Knight Rises July 20 After The Dark Knight came out in 2008 winning two Oscars, one for sound editing and the other for actor in a supporting role. Sure enough with major actors like Heath Ledger, Michael Caine and Harvey Dent, The Dark Knight was sure to succeed.

Four years later director Christopher Nolan is completing his Dark Knight trilogy with The Dark Knight Rises. In this story, a new terrorist leader named Bane takes over Gotham and Bat Man returns to protect the city.

The Avengers NOW PLAYING Iron Man, The Incredible Hulk, Thor, Captain America, Hawkeye and Black Widow all are teaming up as a group called S.H.I.E.L.D. in order to save the world from Loki and his army.

To Rome With Love June 22 This is the must-see romance of the summer. Top name stars such as Penelope Cruz, Jesse Eisenberg, and Ellen Page help tell the story about a number of people in Italy and the romance they find and how they make their love work.

The Amazing Spider-Man July 3 Spider Man returns to the big screen this summer, and should be a guaranteed action film. It does not continue the story from previous movies, but instead takes us back to high school, where Peter Parker who finds a clue that will help him to learn about his parents’ disappearance.

Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter June 22 For all you vampire lovers, here’s another vampire movie that is sure to keep your attention. This movie takes you back in time to the age of Lincoln and the civil war but instead of Lincoln fighting with his own country this time he’s battling vampires who are planning to take over America.

Piranha 3DD June 1 If a movie that makes no sense filled with drugs violence and nudity sounds like a good time at the movies, then Piranha 3DD might be the movie for you.

11 • The Voice • May 25, 2012 • myvikingvoice.com

Chris Wilson Special to the Voice

For students, summer means many things: swimming, BBQ, sleeping in and going to parties. Summer also means that Hollywood is releasing their biggest movies. Whether it’s raunchy comedy, heartbreaking love story, or explosion-filled adventure, there’s something for every taste.

Summer movies to watch for

ScHoolboy Q. brings the gangster back to rap

Sports

Kicking his way to College Senior year is full of decisions, a big one being what college to go to and how on earth to pay for it. But senior Jacob Venable, Everett High School’s football kicker, has nothing to worry about; he has been awarded and accepted a full ride scholarship.

Venable’s college search started a couple months ago, when he was offered five scholarships from different schools such as; Albion, Adrian, Olivet, Siena Heights and Alma. Constantly missing school during that time period because of college tours, the stress level was high and the decision was not easy. In the end, Venable verbally committed to Siena Heights University February 17 with a full ride scholarship, half academic and half football.

Venable has always been an athlete: before football, he had been active in soccer since the age of four. Although he picked football as his high school sport he still plays soccer when he can, on an indoor team.

Though he has been successful at football, Venable said an earlier start could have made him even better.

“I wish I would have started when I was younger,” says Venable.

Many teens would love to be professional athletes, but for Venable football is a way to help him toward his main goal: his education. To him that is the most important thing. “[The] decision [to go pro] is four years down the road. I need to focus on today [and my education].”

Although he didn’t start at a young age, he has done well for just playing three years Venable practices kicking for about two hours straight when the season is approaching and during.

He also lifts and is currently training, even while off-season.

Venable is very lucky and to have these kinds of opportunities offered to you is not easy, he said. “[Jake has] good work ethics he went to a lot of good camps and he worked hard this past summer. He will be a good college kicker as long as he continues the work he’ll be fine,” said football coach Marcelle Carruthers.

Not only do you have to be a good player and determined in the sport but also in your education.

“Keep your grades up. You can be the best athlete in the world, but without the grades you won’t get anywhere,” said Venable.

Venable said that many teens are careless about their grades until they get to their senior year and realize how important they are. If you’re an athlete that’s the advice Venable gives to you: athlete or not, grades are important.

Since his sophomore year Venable has been the only kicker for Everett’s football team, leaving next year’s team without a kicker. This summer, Venable will be coaching two new kickers: sophomore Juan Ramirez and freshman Cameron Goedert.

“It just seems like a good experience [and] fun,” said Ramirez. “[but ...I’m nervous] because I’ve never kicked a football before.”

As the new class moves up into the position of kicker, and Venable moves on to bigger things, his coach has advice for him to take along. “[Jake should] continue to follow his dreams, improve the work ethics and get a fine life,” said Carruthers.

Chad Sanders

12 • The Voice • May 25, 2012 • myvikingvoice.com

COURTESY HOFFMAN Photography

Estefania Santamaria Sports Editor