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SIDNEY LANIER HIGH SCHOOL’S

The Blue & White Ms. Woods: A Life Lesson and ‘Miracle’

March 20 , 2017

Special Edition

push for success," said Ms. Woods, who recalled the entire experience iracle Woods is one who was humbling. is challenged every day, yet goes above and be- She earned her undergraduate and yond the standard for graduate degrees from ASU. During people with disabilities. her tenure, she lived in the dorms. She was always allowed to live on An English teacher at Lanier High the first floor because that's where School and an associate minister, the accessible room was. She used a Ms. Woods is independent and motorized wheel chair to get around, doesn’t need help. She refuses to use so as not get fatigued. the elevator and takes the stairs. "Getting that chair in my room that One could say her climb to get had 3 other people in it (I had where she is today as an educator suitemates during these years) was has not been easy. It was tough and challenging to not be so noisy! full of hardships. Sometimes my roommate and Ms. Woods suffers from spastic suitemates would be uncomfortable diplegia — a form of cerebral palsy with my chair, my disability, and marked by tense muscles and spasms wouldn’t really approach me. But I made it work." in the legs. By Jamarious Fulks

Inside this issue: Tackling the ‘Nword’ and Vestiges of Colorism

Gamers with Divided Pathways

Poet Style: Hot Trends, Cool Days

The Time Debate of the ‘15-15’ Rule, Check-ins, and Lockouts

LHS Failing List: Setback for Setup of Comeback?

‘Big Al’ Makes Poet History

Students Pen Original Poems — ’The Unknown’ and ‘Pretty Brown Eyes’

‘Ask Blue’ Advises on Side Chicks, Teachers Who Are ‘Extra’

Growing up with this condition, Ms. Woods had to look for ways to help with her accessibility. Things like handrails, limited Woods steps, and elevators became vital, as she would become fatigued in the hallways.

Don’t Forget !  March 20-24: Spring Break  April 14: Good Friday  April 28: Prom Night  May 20:LHS Graduation, ASU Acadome,  May 25 : Last day for students

Her favorite thing about teaching are those “lightbulb moments … because they show a student clicks with the material.”

When asked if she thou thought her teachers would be proud of her, she There were people who made it their said “I think they would say I’m a priority to make her feel less than work in progress.” zero. She endured bullying. God also plays a role in her life.

"A couple of distinctive times where the bullying was particularly apparent was when I was in 6th grade, this girl pulled my chair out just to see me fall down. In high school, my entire choral class made fun of me during a crucial test without realizAccessibility became even more of ing I heard all of them taunting me. an issue at college, where she had to In college, I would pass people and use a motorized wheelchair. Her they would call me the 'retarded girl'." dorm life was interesting as well. But none of this stopped Ms. Woods. She made sure to get academic accommodations so that if she couldn't get to class, she would get more time. Nonetheless, she still says her college experience was amazing.

the love of reading.”

Yet, home is where she gained confidence and a great sense of independence. Ms. Woods grew up in a packed household — a “loud” one with two brothers and loads of cousins .

It takes someone special to rise She always knew she wanted to above and beyond to achieve teach. She played teacher in the fifth grade. She also said that growing up dreams. at home is when she learned to read. When Ms. Woods walked across the stage at Alabama State University’s Ms. Woods’ teachers also played a Acadome to receive her degree, the vital role in her career choice. audience erupted in cheers. “My 5th-grade teacher taught me "It really let me know the impact of character,” Ms. Woods recalled. people with disabilities when we “My 12th-grade teacher taught me

She’s an associate pastor. “My favorite thing about being a Christian is setting an example for others.”

All in all, Ms. Woods has had ups and downs like everyone else. While she lives with this disability, she's fought tooth and nail to get where she is, and that shows that Ms. Woods is a force to be reckoned.

Once could say Miracle Woods’ journey to get to where she is today as an educator has not been easy. She’s still climbing.

The Divergent N-word my mind. Before I knew it I was using it as a placeholder for any noun that I fumbled over The N-word goes back farther than any of us while I was there. It was no big deal. can fathom. No one has really pinpointed how to efficiently use the word, how to condemn While there, I called my mother on the phone the word, or how they even feel about it. just to check in. I let the word slip accidentally, forgetting her unspoken policy on the word I have heard it thrown around loosely as if it and immediately received a verbal lashing for were not one of the biggest and most potent even thinking of the word in vain. sores on the English language, and I have heard people place taboo on the word like it I thought this had to mean that it was a regionhas been used as a physical weapon with al disposition. Maybe since they were farther which they have been beaten for years. north, away from the heart of Civil Rights, the It gets pretty statues, the heroes, the plantations, the things intense we never think of that are markers of history, amongst our they did not feel the word in its full potency. HeartBeats by Dre elders. I was wrong, however. Upon returning to the I never use south, I heard my classmates casually calling the N-word in my home … ever. My mother themselves the word, even I was saying it. It simply will not stand for it. She never explicit- couldn’t be regional, I was hearing it in my ly explained why she does not want me to use own school at this point. it, yet every time I let it slip, even in solace, I wince, ready for her to hit me with whatever is I deduced that it had nothing to do with age seeing as my elders in Davenport had no probclosest to her. lem with it, it wasn’t regional, and it wasn’t I took a trip to Davenport, Iowa (my cultural. What could it be? I still haven’t hometown) for the winter break and they were figured it out definitively, but I have a theory. much more lax about the term. It was tossed into every phrase, most sentences, and ad- People often talk about the different uses of dresses whether they were aggressive or pas- the word, using a soft –a rather than the hard – r, using it affectionately instead of aggressivesive. ly, and the like. It seems as if we have all, over I never asked them how they felt about the time, come to a mass, not yet unanimous, deword, frankly because it had not even crossed sensitization to the term. By Andre Lamonte

When we hear it, we don’t harp on it. I had a friend say it to me this morning and it did not bring me back to days toiling fields for no pay, getting mistreated under law, suffering unfathomable oppression. It simply meant amigo or guy and I responded as if it did too. Is this a problem though? I often contemplate if the desensitization is a good thing or not. Is it wrong to remove ourselves from its history and taking away all the wrong it has done us? Is it right to relieve ourselves of the pain it brings us to hear it and to think we are inferior because of it? Should we hold on to the word, letting it keep its power to forever remind us of how we were treated? Should we forget its malicious connotations and bring ourselves together under its umbrella of potential comradery amongst black youth? I don’t have the answers to these questions honestly. It bewilders me to this day.

Light v. Dark: The Lasting Effects of Colorism By Joseph Blackshear

Let’s go back to slavery when the slave master would pit the light-skinned “House Negro” against the dark-skinned “Field Negro.” The slave master used this as a tactic to make the slaves envy and distrust one another and not unite in very hard times.

Such name calling illustrates how far behind we are in embracing our culture. So, the next time you hear about the battle of skin colors, think about this: There are two types of Oreos, dark and golden. Some like dark, others like golden.

Team Dark Skin. Team Light Skin. Dark Skin If you want to point a finger, blame Willie Winning! This is a common topic in social Lynch, a West Indies slave master who taught Virginia slave masters a formula to control the circles and on social media. minds of slaves. The method, which is said to We are really damaging our- have a lasting effect for over 400 years, selves mentally by doing so. worked then and it is working more now than Psychological warfare is the ever, it seems. mental problem that uproots itself in this intraracial battle Case in point: Most people think that lightof skin colors. Colorism, skinned blacks are the more privileged ones experts say, is a mentally unlike the dark skin who represent the harddestructing method set up to divide a race or working side of black people. culture. Today, light-skinned guys are often called It’s amazing how we can point the finger at one “pretty boys” and the girls are called race and see their imperfections but not look at redbones.” Dark-skinned guys often get the

But if you look closely in the middle there is always the cream no matter the shade of the cookie. It never changes. At the end of the day, we are still black and that won’t change.

“If you’re black, stay back; if you’re brown, stick around; if you’re yellow, you’re mellow; if you’re white, you’re all right.” ~ Langston Hughes

our own flaws that hold us back.. If we decod- name “Kunta Kinte” or “blackie,” while the ed this issue, we would find the root and kill it girls are often labeled “chocolate.” at the source. Page 2

The Blue & White

Kudos To Blue & White Productions

From left are Dr. Antonio Williams, principal at Sidney Lanier High School, NaKaiya Lewis, student journalist, and Ken L. Spear, advisor

In its first competition for video production, Sidney Lanier High School’s Blue & White Productions captured a Student Silver ADDY Award and a scholarship. The Blue & White entered its Student Creed video project in the Film, Video & Sound category. The Addy is short for American Advertising Awards. The setting: #ADDY’s Prom Night2017. The theme: “All that glitters is gold.” In this annual competition, sponsored by the Montgomery chapter of the American Advertising Federation, MAAF celebrates the River Region’s best advertising creative ideas that survived. The strong. The ideas who came out on top. Every year, AAF Montgomery puts out a call for entries to local advertising/marketing professionals to enter their most inventive, inspiring and ingenious creative work of the year. These entries are judged by a panel of visiting creative professionals, with the winners receiving gold and silver trophies in a variety of categories. The Blue & White video project is now a contender for AAF’s district competition, where the entry will vie for an ADDY with other local winners from Alabama, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi and Tennessee.

Special Edition

Page 3

Joysticks yield gamers multiple dividends Proponents argue that

By JaChristian Dauda

The pros of being a gamer is you have the opportunity to play different type of games with different story ideas, genres, and themes. Games usually are fun but some games are very informative. Games can help ease your mind; it’s like a get-away vacation. Some games put you in a different virtual world and you could see a different point of view. Teens around the world feels that gaming helps in real life situations, informs you, helps you stay competitive and keeps you out of trouble. For me, gaming is the way to go. And if mix gaming with sports, it keeps you occupied. Statistics show 91 percent of kids between two and 17, or about 64 million people, are playing video games. Statistics also show people that grow up playing games are more social and smarter than a non-gamer. Being a gamer requires focus, like preparing for the next football game. One has to be prepared before playing by going through practices drills and coaching. Be mindful, though, that if one wants to be good at gaming, not all gamers are good.

people that grow up playing games are more social and smarter than non-gamers. that if the game wasn't here he could be out doing things that's no good. His favorite game is Some say, “In order to be the best, you have NBA 2k he feels that it helps to beat the best.” him out on the court in real life. You can find a part-time career in gaming. The average gamer makes $12,000 to Kobe Bethel a senior at Lanier 100,000 a year. You also have opportunities said, "If you play the game, to travel and participate in you have to stay focused." worldwide tournaments with Gaming since the age of 7, Hardy opportunities to win cash prizes Kobe enjoys playing 2K and and other rewards including Call of Duty. Playing the scholarship money. game does not affect Kobe’s social life, he says, and he Students around “The Castle” remains physically active play the game, do sports and while playing sports. work and says it’s great! Lanier Darden senior Keyune Darden said, "Playing the game keeps me busy, it helps me stay out of trouble. Playing the game makes me competitive." Martez Hardy, a junior at Lanier, said, "Playing the game is fun, you learn new stuff and meet new social friends." He feels

Bethel

Too Much Gaming Affects Social Skills, Health very fun and exciting “so I can't sleep."

By Tre Hooks

Video games causing gamers to have health issues and many more problems. Researchers state that "video games can promote violence, get gamers to be Germany overweight and even cause gamers to have a lack of sunlight, which is unhealthy".

Some studies conclude that "too much gaming may take away players social responsibility and may cause social isolation".

Riley

"Video games are fun at times, but can become a big habit,” said Khriston Germany, a senior at Sidney Lanier High School. “It's something fun to play when I'm bored."

Researchers believe that being addicted to violent games can cause gamers to be aggressive in thought and feelings.

Gamers lack sleep because of the excitement and the urge to beat a level or reach the highest rank in a video game. Lanier Senior DeQuarius Riley said the stack of video games he has at home are Page 4

Being too addicted to a game may cause you to forget to study for a test or even forget about doing homework. Lanier senior Haneef Davis believes taking 30 minute breaks are very important while playing video games because it’s easy to lose track of time.

Davis

Experts say, “Too much gaming may take away players’ social responsibility and may cause social isolation.” Special Edition

Hot Trends For Cool Days By Edward Zeigler

Dust off those old windbreakers, pull out the Uggs, and break in those Dad caps because the breezy temps command them. Windbreakers were made popular in the '70s. They are being brought back because of their outlandish colors and styles. They are usually oversized one or two sizes. Bombers were originally for military pilots, but have had a resurgence in popularity in recent years. Thanks to a variety of celebrities they have been popularity in street fashion. One could say they are to a girl what Jordans are to guys. Ugg boots are the seasonal trend of this list. Girls tend to bring them out as soon as fall and winter come around. The Dad Caps get their name from traditionally being worn by older men such as fathers. Teenagers are now sporting them. They come in a variety of colors with different graphics on the front or back. Also on the front of the caps would be the latest slang such as: Lit, Savage and etc. Biker jeans have been made popular by the high end fashion line Balmain. These types of jeans are most known for the ribbing on the thighs and lower leg. The denim may also have a tear around the knee. They get their name from mainly being worn by motorcycle gang members.

LATEST TRENDS! * Bombers * Windbreakers * Ugg boots * Biker jeans * Dad caps

While these new trends have always been around, they seem to have withstood the test of time.

Photos by Joshua Gordon, Edward Zeigler, and KenShaun Gipson. Selfie by Devonta James The Blue & White

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‘First 15, Last 15’ The Thin Line Between Order and Chaos By Shantel Daniels and Karsolyn Fisher

The “15-15 rule” at Sidney Lanier High School could prove very effective as it keeps students out the halls for the first 15 and the last 15 minutes of class.

instructors are closing their lessons and they might give out a homework assignment. Those students not in class for the last 15 minutes could miss a homework assignment.

This is a common hall pass policy in schools throughout the nation, according to an Internet search by the Blue & White. It means that no “The way you start something is the way you student should be granted permission to leave finish,” said Lanier principal Antonio Wilclass the first or the last 15 minutes of class. liams, stating the importance of this rule. The beginning of class is important because If students are not in class that minute, the that's when directions are given. Students teachers can move on to their assignment, and missing out from the start could be confused begin the start of instruction for students to on the assignments. master the outcome of that day. So that is one of the key reasons school leadHe also said that it prevents skipping to a cerers stress that it is good to be in class during tain degree . It will give people the idea to the first 15 minutes and not out wandering the know if that student belongs here in this hallways. school or not. The last 15 minutes are also important because

This rule is very productive to start class on time so everyone could get their day started, school officials say It gives teachers the opportunity to start class while everyone is in class with no interruptions. Bernicia Ballard, an 11th grader, confessed . that she dislikes the 15-15 minute rule, because it creates a long wait to use the restroom. It is neither helpful nor effective, the student says. But classmate Destini Powell favors the 15-15 policy as it minimizes the number of students in the halls. Mary Dianne Gray, a Career Prep teacher, appreciates how the rule gives the students a sense of structure and consistency. It also “gives them time to get prepared for the real world, and it’s positive,” Mrs. Gray added. “Everyone should follow.”

Do Student Lockout, Searches Steal Time? By Emko Pash and Kamryn Young

Enter the main entrance of Sidney Lanier High school before the morning bell and you will witness a long line of students waiting to go through the security checkpoint and get into school. So the morning is off to a slow start as many arrive late, even the buses. Once the bell sounds, some students still casually make their way to class. This pattern too often continues throughout the day.

“The school is so big and it's hard to get from one end to another end before the teacher locks you out … We need a little more time or just not do lockout anymore.”

Many school leaders and faculty members feel the freshmen don’t seem to have any sense ~ Glenn Adams, 11th grade of urgency since they have more years left to get serious unlike the upperclassmen. quences than the ones that are here this year.” "The upperclassmen show more urgency One freshman, Janiah Rogers, said the lockbecause they have more to lose trying to out does not seem to carry any weight to graduate and all,” teacher Mary Diane Gray many ninth graders. said. “The ninth graders don’t fear for their grades or anything like that. That’s what I’ve “If they start doing them everyday, then we would care because that's like a detention been noticing.” everyday — even though that would be harsh When asked why he thinks ninth graders and unfair,” Rogers explained. don't care about the lockout, senior Devonte On the other hand, senior Azaria Perry feels Thomas said times have changed. that frequent lockouts could lessen its effect. “It was different when we were in ninth “That would make them not care about it grade,” Thomas said. “We had more conse- even more because it would be an everyday Page 6

thing and they would get used to it,” she said. “If they do them less, then maybe they would take it more serious.” Overall, most say they actually need more time, considering the size of “The Castle.” “The school is so big and it's hard to get from one end to another end before the teacher locks you out,,” 11th-grader Glenn Adams said. “So I think we need a little more time or just not do lockout anymore.” Behavior specialist LaTonya Whetstone said the lockout is both unfortunate and necessary. “I see a difference in the students urgency when there's a lockout,” she said. “If they got to class on time, then there wouldn't be a need for lockout”. As far as the security check goes, students note that if one of their peers walk in at 7:25 and they are at the end of line, they may not get through until 7:30. They end up tardy. When trying to get clarification from a set of security guards, they declined comment. Senior Jakeise Adams and junior Michael Belser noted that that the fact girls don't get checked makes them feel as if the school is sexist at best. At worst, it’s discriminatory and could put others at risk. “They bring in things that harms not only the students,” Belser said, “but also themselves and peers that come.“ The Blue & White

Lanier’s Failing: Setback or Comeback? By Shramon Hurd

A lot of good things are going on at Sidney Lanier High School: “Big Blue” won the Westside Classic against its archrival and ended the season with an 8-2 record. The Singing Poets brought home honors in the Cultural Arts Festival. The National Honor Society inducted 25 new members this year. But there is room for improvement.

Dr. Williams also noted that too many students lack self-motivation and strong student leadership. “We need more students who are willing to take leadership roles and are actually leaders,” he said. “We lack student leadership in such a way that some students don't even know who our students leaders are.

As a whole, LHS needs to work on puncJaderian Thornton tuality, follow uniform dress code, and Eleventh-grader agreed. "I don't even know about student adhere to the cell phone policy. leadership,” she said. “Who are our stuToo many students linger in the halls past dent leaders?" the tardy bell and a great number of students have their cellphones glued to them According to released statistics, Lanier students need to make gains in more areas as if it was another body part. than one. For instance, suspensions are up "I want to challenge all of you to take by 100 more than this time last year. ownership," Principal Antonio Williams told students in a special called assembly  Ninth grade reported 285, while the 10th grade had 84 suspensions, about the failing school status. “If everyone takes ownership of what they're do-  Thirty-nine suspensions came from ing wrong, improvements can be made the 11th grade, and 49 were reported effectively.” from the 12th grade.

Students view statistics, showing state school leaders declared academic intervention.



As for unexcused absences, slightly over 2,600 were reported at press time.

Such statistics have landed Lanier on the state’s failing schools list. With hard work, dedication, and motivation, though, school leaders believe there's a possibility that Lanier could be taken off the list by the time it is released again.

Seniors Say They’ve Worked Hard for No Reward Unannounced to the students until recently, the State of Alabama's Department of Education voted to have one standard diploma during the 2013-2014 school year.

By Shramon Hurd and Zakiya Starks

One in four of Lanier High School’s class of 2017 graduates qualify for an Advanced Diploma. Could this be one of the reasons why advanced diplomas will not be rewarded this year?

“… All students who have taken Advanced Placement courses will still be given credit because they're calculated with a weighted GPA.” ~ Rose Penn, guidance

Special Edition

Even though the class of 2017 doesn't really agree with this, the Alabama State's Department of Education probably had a good reason for making this decision. "In my opinion, think the Alabama State's Department of Education made this decision because they wanted a Standard Diploma so that all students could receive equal academic access Many students argue they’ve worked through the State of Alabama," said Rose towards receiving Advanced Diplomas Penn, Lanier’s guidance director. since their middle school years. So, they "Although Advanced Diplomas are no are displaying a great degree of disap- longer being issued,” Ms. Penn added, pointment. “all students who have taken Advanced "I feel like I worked hard for nothing," Placement courses will still be given credit because they're calculated with a says Haneef Davis. weighted GPA." "I feel like we're being cheated because we worked hard for these Advanced Diplomas and we deserve them," stated Kristie King. This is upsetting to many students because they say they have put in hard work in hopes to receive these advanced diplomas.

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Author Declares ‘I Am More Than A Bird’ tender age of 5, she was a victim of By Equavon Lewis Elizabeth Huntley went through sexual abuse by her uncle who also many horrid experiences while growing up resided in the home. Elizabeth fell as a young girl. She lost both her parents into a dark place and found it hard to cope with her hostile environand fell victim to child sexual abuse. ment. The things she went through in her youth are revealed in her published book "More She came out of her dark spot by getting the attention and love from than a Bird." her teachers. Liz realized that "If God takes care of the birds,” the teachers loved smart students so Huntley Huntsville native believes, “He will take she was determined to be the care of me because I am more than a bird.” smartest child in the classroom.

the

Both her parents were drug dealers, who spent most of their Ms. Huntley considers herself very time running their drug business. blessed. Without her faith and amEventually, her father was busted for dealing drugs which then bitious mentality she would not be able to succeed in the areas sent him to prison. Their mother now left alone to raise five of her life that at one point weighed her down. children on her own, started using the products which led to a She dedicated her life to becoming a child advocate and is a drug addiction. While struggling with that drug addiction, she passionate litigation attorney who now practices law at Lightfound herself in such despair, she took her children and dropped foot, Franklin & White, LLC in Birmingham, AL. them off at various family member houses' only to return home where she committed suicide. Elizabeth was left with her grandmother. Unfortunately, her living arrangement was not the most suitable environment for a small child.

Black Dollars Matter By Ebony Allen

“Black dollars matter, but black lives don’t.” Black Enterprise stated that Black buying power will reach $1.1 trillion this year. How much of that money goes to Black owned Businesses? I don't know, but I'll bet my life very little of it does. Its proven most black businesses tend to shut down because of lack of support from the community. Rapper Killer Mike has been a strong advocate for African Americans to move at least portions of their money to black-owned banks to stimulate economies in those communities. The Atlanta native is particularly fond of Citizens Trust Bank, a black-owned bank in his hometown. "What I would like to see happen is one million people instead of buying Jordans or caps or whatever thing is cool this month," he said, "one million black people find one black banking institution."

Forty-two million Blacks have $1.1 trillion in spending power. That is an annual spending power of $26,200.

the following products and services: tobacco, whiskey, wine, and beer, non-alcoholic, leisure time spending, toys, games, and pets, telephone services, gifts, etc. The Nation of Islam Research Group (NOIRG) theorizes that when most Blacks emerged from slavery, it frightened the heck out of white people. They knew that money and knowledge in Black hands meant that Blacks would have the power to determine their own destiny apart from white domination and control.

The first impulse Blacks had after slavery was to get as far away from whites as possible. They even set up over 60 allorganize a boycott of anything. Even if we could Black towns, organize a boycott , would we be willing to make in which they managed free any short term sacrifices for a long term gain? of white au"I think Black dollars won't matter at all when thority. [President Donald] Trump steps into office" LaThis trend had to be stopped because with Black nier history teacher Mashonda Strong said. independence came the total loss of the labor that According to the research, 42 million Blacks whites totally depended on. Researchers concludhave spending power amounting to $1.1 trillion, ed that this created a tremendous amount of opwhich gives each man, woman, and child an pression. Blacks responded to this oppression by becoming fast spenders. annual spending power of $26,200 dollars.

Today, Black people, poor people, or any group Research further shows that Blacks spend their of people with sufficient numbers could not money overwhelmingly with white businesses on Page 8

Special Edition

‘Big AL’ Makes Poet Sports History By JaChristian Dauda

class.

on his craft and to try to bring a state championship to the family of Lanier.

Alfred Thomas, a junior at Sidney Lanier Alfred is also a honor roll student and has a High School is excel- 3.2 GPA. ling at being a studentBeing a student-athlete is not easy it is hard athlete. and it is tough. In order to do so you have to He is a two-time first manage your time wisely. team All-State player, a poet history maker, Late-practices, learning new plays, then havand great student in the ing to learn about the new formula to help with your math .

Alfred has a chance to make history at Lanier. Alfred set’s an example amongst his peers He could become the first three-time All-State and student class. player ever at Lanier High. Some athletes, though, play around in When asked about this milestone Alfred said, class thinking that the teachers will just pass "I'm just going to go out there, stay focused, them and then they find themselves on probation when a college offer comes, all because get better, and help my team." of their grades being low. With that being said you can tell that Alfred is also not an selfish player, he puts the team Alfred, on the other hand, has been able to first and after coming up short with an 8-3 change the way people look at studentathletes. He shows that he is balanced on and record losing in the first round. off the field, keeps his grades up while doing He’s looking for a perfectly sound season other extracurricular activities are great. doing his job, believing in the person next to If more athletes had his scholastic acumen and him and listening to coach. athletic prowess, the outside world would He knows that he has the chance to create think differently. history, but his mindset is just to work more

Junior Alfred Thomas could become the first, three-time All-State player at Sidney Lanier High School.

New art teacher, brushed with similar stroke accustomed to a new face can be quite difficult for some students.

By Joshua Gordon

The familiar “Praise the lord” that used to echo through the halls of The Castle on the second floor has been replaced with a new voice.

“Since the switch from Mr. Ford, we are now learning the fundamentals of art,” said Lanier senior Kierra Jarrett, who had become familiar with Dr. Scott’s predecessor. “Although we do draw more often, we still feel as if they took a piece of family from our school.

That voice is that of Dr. Tony Scott, who serves as a long-term substitute for longtime art teacher, Albert Ford. Mr. Ford retired in December. Dr. Scott is not just one of your typical subs holding a class down. He is an artist and former art teacher, who has worked in public and private schools in and around the River Region. He has taught visual arts at Autaugaville High School and St. Jude Catholic High School. He has in his arsenal several degrees from multiple colleges, including Troy University, Samford University and The University of Texas. Also, he comes to The Castle armed with 20 years in the United States Air Force. One could say he has a penchant for structure

Special Edition

“He was like a Grandpa to us,” Kierra added. “Hopefully Dr. Scott will be able to fill that void.” Dr. Scott not only desires to fill a void, but to lead his art students to embrace and hone their and structure. Surprisingly, he is also the gifts. “ I want to open the minds of those who founder and pastor of Grace Bible Fellowship come into my class by showing them that art is Church on the campus of Auburn University a doorway leading to an open mind, and an open mind will lead to a clear vision,” he said. Montgomery. Dr. Scott’s water color, “Right To Vote”

With a resume full of experience, it seems he still does not fill a void left by “Art Ford,” students say. Although Dr. Scott and Ford have many similarities, such as military experience, both are ministers of the gospel, educators and art lovers.

When asked how he would assist students aspiring to be artists, Dr. Scott said that he would help to develop the gifts they already possess, taking their art to the next level in order to bless others with their talents.

Although students are learning a lot more about drawing with Dr. Scott in charge, getting Page 9

The Unknown Darius Barefield

Being a teen, I spent time looking at the violence and virtues of certain situations

Poetry

So the ways of the people I grew close to creating a platform for pain and distress in my emotions which made me feel nothing but sorrow and I showed the smile of a con No one knew the depth of my heartache as I coped with the issues arising I wondered off into deep thought of what could be of the world,

such as the fact that I thought people could change my smile and bring happiness into it gave me optimism because my smile was full of sadness

e n or

but the more family I met, the more hatred I felt even though they were supposedly there to help I could never tell so every corner I turned I met a fiend that wrapped around my spirit and attempted to digest and devour my weakened soul As I begin to hear an outcry of my inner voice. Because of the pain, I began to endure as the hold grew tighter That feeling of all tender love was snatched from my unstable heart by the demons that held me down and the desperation of affection began to grow as I walked through the stages of life with seeds of deception steering me away from my greatest potential As the stress grew and the hatred surrounding my body begin to take over my mind with negative thoughts while they race pass each other using my death as a finish line. I began to show actions of the wicked by doing things evil souls would never think of I started to give up on life so I had a plan. Hopefully it would work They say "that violence will heal the wounds of your past," so I acted out in every violent way possible When my body grew tired I began to look for other therapeutic remedies that I could remember while banging my head repeatedly on the rigid surface that cracked my skull which reminded me of the authentication of my greatness and dwelled in the spirits who attempted to hold me down You see no one can run from the truth. It was meant to set you free, so I let things slip from my mouth that people were afraid to say

Pretty Brown Eyes By Joseph Blackshear

As she waves at me with her beautiful brown eyes She knows my love for her does survive I love her but won’t tell her so She knows that my love is alive Page 10

Pretty Brown Eyes let me love you in a special way I believe you love me too Teach me how to care One day love will call you

You sit and stare with eyes of crystal brown My love is what will keep you to stay

If you don’t love me tell me and I’ll quit Then still my love won’t go away Special Edition

Should I still be with my boyfriend even though he has cheated numerous times? Honey I can't say exactly what I want to say but no you shouldn't be with your boyfriend after he cheated multiple time. It makes him lose what little respect he does have for you because you're making him think that's okay. What you need to do is drop him because he isn’t anything if he continues to do it if he knows you love him. Get you a new boyfriend who treats you right, loves you, and most of all respects you. Don't cry over that fool either; remind him of what he's missing when he sees you happy with somebody else. After all Karma is a..... #DropthatZERO How can I deal with a teacher that is rude and does too much? You shouldn’t let your teacher stop you from getting your education. Start back going to their class and just ignore the rude comments that he/she makes. If it continues, try to talk with the principal about having a conference with that teacher and your parent…#KeepItClassy Does my boyfriend love me or does he love his side chicks? If your boyfriend has side chicks then he doesn’t show that he loves you. It shows that he doesn’t have respect for you. You should sit down and talk with him and if he decides to keep his side chicks then sweetie it’s time to let him go…. #CutEmOff How do I tell someone that I deeply care about, that I don't like him in the way he likes me and we still can be friends? You should sit down and have a conversation with him and let him know how you really feel about him. You should also ask him how would he feel about just being friends or would it be better to just end all types of relations with him to try to stop the feelings from escalating into something stronger… #NotYaType I was going out with a boy but we split up and he started going out with my friend. He has told me that he will leave her and I believe him but I don’t really want him to because of her feelings. First thing first, this boy is no good for either of you. He’s trying to ruin your friendship even though you’re not as close to her as you used to be, you should still be loyal to her. There is plenty of fish in the sea… #HeAin’tNoGood My friends and I started to take self-defense classes. My brother makes fun of me and says that it is a waste of time. He says that girls are weak. I’m a very small girl and I’m starting to believe what he said is true. What do you think? Should I stop taking the class? According to a female MPD Officer, You should keep taking your self-defense class. You shouldn’t let him intimidate you because while a male may be stronger physically, a female can outsmart a male easily. Just because you are small doesn’t mean anything… #GirlPower There is a girl I really like and I’ve known her for almost 2 years. She has a boyfriend and they have been together for a year. She told me how she feels recently. He is her first love, but he is always hurting her, and she doesn’t know how to break up with him. She really means a lot to me and I want to help her. How can I help her? What’s your advice? You need to sit down and have a conversation with her to make sure she really feels the way she says she does. If she really feels the way she feels, it shouldn’t be hard for her to leave her boyfriend. Honestly, we feel like if she

Special Edition

Page 11

Congratulations To Our Poet Hackers On Winning The 2017 Hackathon Award

From left are Jayee Posey, JaChristian Dauda, Terrance Mickels, Tiara Davis and Darius Bailey

A team of first-time coders from Sidney Lanier High School walked away with top honors in a recent Hackathon, spearheaded by the #YesWeCode national initiative. #YesWeCode was founded in 2014 by the late artist Prince and CNN’s Van Jones to young men and women in underrepresented backgrounds find success in the tech industry. This technology boot camp exposes students to coding, a key element in creating computer software, apps and websites. Using the innovative tools learned, the student teams were tasked with solving an “education” or “economic empowerment” problem. "A lot of times tech is seen as almost a villain in a lot of our communities. We want them to know this is an opportunity,” Felix Flores, national director of #YesWeCode, told the media. “You can be able to turn around your families income, create your own company, or be part of a corporation that's doing some great things. Our job really is to say this is how we can get you to understand it, and from there how can you use it." The Southern Youth Leadership Development Institute sponsored the event as part of the Spirit of Rosa Parks Day festivities.

Page 12

Special Edition

Honors in ‘The Castle’ Aaron, Johnifer Adams Queintarus Deantonte’ Addison, Takemia B Adkins, D'varia Shervon Arrington, Candance Sorabe Arrington, Kendrick Wayne III Barker, Tyri D Blakely, Johnny L Borom, Omega Boyd, Quindazier De'shuntae Brown, Jamira D Brown, Rueben K Brown, Shanya Arianna Brown, Tom'Myracle Sa'niece Butler, Altoria B Campbell, Quintarious D Coleman, Gerald Q Crum-brown, Jo'shanell D Cunningham, Tashara Lashay Danner, Tamya J Dauda, JaChristian Al-Farouq Davis, Haneef M Davis, Jordan Christopher Davis, Tierra J Dickerson, Natasha Renee Ford, Cavausier Ford, Connell Diandre Givens, Kikelia A Glover, Charity Grace Goldsby, Ashanti Gordon, Joshua T Gorman, Porsha Darnell Grice, Alexis C Haigler, Dominique B Hall, Karisma D Hall, Ke’asia Harris, Diamond B Harris, Makayla Shaynne Hart, Noah Thaddeus Hatten, Kadijah Q Hawkins, Kendal Bri’shae Special Edition

Hawkins, Lekevion Darnell Hawthorne, Shakereia Neika Holt, Alesia E Holt, Tamera M Holt, Tia A Hubbard, Gloria L Hunter, Ronald Hurd, Shramon M Jackson, Jasmine Lemia Jackson, Kendarrius E Jackson, Rakiana Lafaye Jackson, Shanaya T Jackson, Shandrea A Jennings, Sya Zaymah Johnson, Lanier Jackson Jones, Kenya Imani-Marie Jordan, Juwan Kentarus Kemp, Anteedra Laketra King, Kristie Monique Lake, Kaitlyn Michelle Lewis, Antavious Lewis, Equavon Dayshon Lewis, Nakiya Brianne Lott, Imani Nia Lowery, Bobby L Lowery, Brandon Lamar Maddox, Zarria K Mahone, William James McCall, Matthew L McCloud, Kiearra A Mickles, Terence Kevon Mooney, Breanna Tiara Moten, Kamille J Nelson, Briana J

Pettway, Ro'Shayla Alexis Perry, Azaria Pickett, Kaliyah L Roberts, Jaterrika N Rudolph, Justin Omar Scott, Shaquille Oneal Sevion, Cedrick Shackelford, La'metria Simpson, Canaya Shamarcle Smith, Angel J Smith, Destinee' R Smith, Kadresha Jemia Speed, Myeisha Jamya Spurlock, Megan Christina Stamps, Caliyah Lee'ayuna Stokes, Jaliyah D Thomas, Alfred Christopher Thomas, Eldon Theodore Thompson, John Rufus Trawick, Jasmine Nicole Trawick, Mary E Turner, Marquez D Vason, Kanahji Armon Zeigler, Edward

Page 13

Royal & Loyal Patrons

Cubie Rae Hayes

Raven Minnifield

Dr. Antonio Williams

Courtney Graham

Drew Woods

Miracle Woods

Mona Taylor-Davis

Akili Harris

Henry Tellis G.L. Barnes

Staff members of Blue & White Productions are grateful for our Loyal and Royal Patrons, one of the major key funding sources to offset printing costs, repair equipment, and to operate the school-based multimedia outlet, which includes the soon-to-be-launched Poet TV. Again, we thank you for your support.

THANKS TO OUR PATRONS

Page 14

Special Edition

Royal & Loyal Patrons

Tislam Ellis

Chicketta Rollins-

Rose Penn

Dr. Aundria Green

Jasmine Pate

DeMarquis Cobb

Jennie Brown

Courtney Jones

Nicholas Dalton

Candice Petty

Annice Jessie

LaToya Patterson

SGM Joyce Allen

Bridget Douglas Mathis

Yolanda Huntley

Staff members of Blue & White Productions are grateful for our Loyal and Royal Patrons, one of the major key funding sources to offset printing costs, repair equipment, and to operate the school-based multimedia outlet, which includes the full launch Poet Vision. Again, we thank you for your support.

Special Edition

Page 15

The Blue & White

Sidney Lanier High School 1756 South Court Street Montgomery, AL 36104 Dr. Antonio Williams, principal

Phone: 334-269-3726 E-mail: ken.spear@mps.k12.al.us

MPS T he pen i s mi g hti er t ha n the

The Blue & White is a student-run publication printing at least 4 issues annually. Letters to the editor are encouraged. Submitted materials, which must be signed, may be delivered to room 113 or given to any staff member, or placed in the box in front of The Blue & White (Room 115). Anonymity will be protected, if requested. The staff reserves the right to edit submitted material. Editorial opinions expressed are those of the writer and do not necessarily reflect those of the newspaper staff or school administration.

swo r d .

Reclaiming the Castle

The Voice of the Poets

Ebony Allen Joseph Blackshear Shantel Daniels JaChristian Dauda Adasia Davis Zakiyla Ellis Karsolyn Fisher Jamarious Fulks KenShaun Gipson Josh Gordon Maria Harris Thomas Hooks Shramon Hurd Jasmine Jordan Andre Lamonte Equavon Lewis Nakaiya Lewis Zaakiraa Muhammad Azaria Perry Emko Pash Zakiya Starks Jasmine Trawick Kamryn Young Edward Zeigler

We’d love to hear from you! Here’s how you can help: 

Letters to the Editor. Read any story and give us your feedback.



Original poetry. If you have that gift, the Blue & White can get you published.



Story ideas and tips. Anyone with knowledge of what makes news — achievements, trends, human interest stories, or issues — can share it with us and we will take it into consideration.

Congratulations to The

Blue & White

2016 winner of the Hallmark Journalism Award for Best All Advisor: Ken L. Spear Co– Advisor: Yolanda Huntley

Around student newspaper 1st place — Quality Writing and Best School News Coverage