Dialogue May 2018

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Dialogue//May 16, 2018

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END NOTES

PAGE 15 » Douglass Principal Greer retires after 30 years of service

PUBLIC ART

PAGE 24 » Southeastern students create mural for Heidelberg Project

PAGE 8 » Detroit Cristo Rey says farewell to Principal Rowe

tHe StuDent VoiCe oF Detroit’S HigH SCHoolS

BACK TO THE SpORTS

CORNER

PAGE 17 » King helps brings baseball back to michigan and Trumbull

AcAdemicS

STudenT life

SIGNING UP

PAGE 7 » Seniors celebrate college plans e n T e R TA i n m e n T

on StAge

PAGE 22 » RHS raises funds at annual Grammy event A puBlicATiOn Of

Walk out Detroit students protest gun violence PAGE 5 » Cass Tech PAGE 8 » Detroit Cristo Rey PAGE 13 » CMA PAGE 27 » Western International STudenT life

RX FOR SAFETY

PAGE 4 » CVS partners with Detroit

cRAin micHiGAn STATe uniVeRSiTY deTROiT HiGH ScHOOl JOuRnAliSm

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2 DetroitDialogue.com May 16, 2018 academics Ataia Templeton/ Mustang Voice

The Mumford Glee Club sings “Lift Every Voice and Sing” before the start of DPSCD board meeting in the Mumford Auditorium on May 8. The board voted at the meeting to end multi-school campuses in the district. BELOW: Signs marking the entrance to Mumford Academy may be removed before school starts in September as the academy will be absorbed by Mumford High.

Dialogue

Vol. III, No. 4 | May 16, 2018

Detroit Dialogue is published by Crain Michigan State University Detroit High School Journalism to showcase the work of student journalists in the city of Detroit.

Dialogue has been established as a forum for student expression and as a voice in the uninhibited, robust, free and open discussion of issues.

All content is prepared by students at participating Detroit high schools. Students receive advice and training from program staff and professional journalists from Crain Communications Inc. throughout the publication process.

Michigan State University, Crain Communications and participating schools assume no liability for the content of Dialogue, and urge all student journalists to recognize that with editorial control comes responsibility, including the responsibility to follow professional journalism standards.

Opinions expressed in Dialogue are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect those of participating schools, Michigan State University or Crain Communications.

About Crain MSU Detroit High School Journalism Crain MSU Detroit High School Journalism enriches the educational experiences of students in the city of Detroit. Our work brings high school students together with professional journalists, Michigan State University faculty members and MSU journalism students to produce a newspaper and news website about the issues affecting students’ schools and their peers. The program is coordinated by the faculty of the School of Journalism at MSU with the support of Detroitbased Crain Communications Inc..

Our Team Joy Visconti, joyvis@msu.edu Director, Crain MSU Detroit High School Journalism

7

Small school mergers create uncertain future

By Ataia Templeton The Mustang Voice First, it was Osborn. After visiting the school last spring, new superintendent Nikolai Vitti proposed merging the three small high schools on the Osborn campus into one school starting last fall.

Now the rest of the small schools in the district will have their turn.

The Detroit Public School Community District board met in the Mumford High School auditorium on May 8, and voted to combine the small schools at Cody, Mumford and Benjamin Carson/Crockett Career and Technical Center in their respective buildings.

According to a story at chalkbeat.org, Vitti told board members at a finance committee meeting in March that consolidating the schools would save the district almost $2 million by eliminating overlap in positions such as principals and other administrators.

The two principals on the Mumford campus, Nir Saar of Mumford Academy and Angela Prince of Mumford High School, say they understand and support Vitti’s plan.

“I support the superintendent’s vision and what he is

trying to do,” said Prince, who was chosen to lead the unified Mumford High School.

Saar said he understands the district is making the best decision for students across the district as a whole, but it’s difficult to say goodbye to Mumford Academy.

“I think we spent three years building a school that looks and feels different than most Detroit high schools, and we have been getting results that are exceptional,” Saar said. “It’s really sad to see that we won’t be able to continue this work and see it all the way through.”

Students and parents of Mumford Academy have expressed their concerns about the combining schools for the next year. Junior class vice president Kamia Woodson said students who have been on the Academy side since the ninth grade (now juniors) were very excited that they were going to be the first class to graduate on the academy side.

“Many classmates and myself were crying at the fact that we as a family were going to be broken up,” Woodson said.

Saar said it’s his understanding is that the district is trying to keep the cohorts together in similar groups with similar teachers,

so students groups might be able to stay intact.

“I think Ms. Prince is going to be really thoughtful in how she combines the students and the staff into a large school,” Saar said.

Prince said she cannot announce specific plans until she meets with the district, but she wants to keep the transition as smooth as possible.

“I think there are some real benefits to having small schools on a campus, but I think that there is a way that we can work as one school and still have that small school feel,” Prince said, adding that she’ll be meeting with Saar to discuss features of the Academy that can be incorporated in the combined school.

Prince said she understands parents want to know their kids are going to be in a safe environ-

ment and that somebody is going to know who their child is.

“I think the students and parents are going to be happy that we are still going to be doing small schools, we’re just going to doing it in a different way. It’s still going to be very personalized,” Prince said.

Principals and district leaders will be meeting for the next several weeks to finalize plans for all three schools before announcing them. That means staff and students at Cody and Ben Carson/ Crockett are also still waiting for details about the transitions at their schools.

Cody Detroit Institute of Technology junior Nala Barlow said she wishes this merger would have happened earlier.

“It’s a chance to unite the campus and bring our community back together,” Barlow said.

Jeremy W. Steele, steelej @msu.edu Scholastic journalism outreach director, MSU School of Journalism

2017-2018 Crain msu detroit high school Journalism participating Schools

Joe Grimm, jgrimm@msu.edu Program adviser & editor in residence, MSU School of Journalism

Benjamin Carson School for Science & Medicine Principal Charles Todd

supported by

Cass Technical High School Principal Lisa Phillips Communication & Media Arts High School Principal Donya Odom

Detroit Cristo Rey High School Principal Susan Rowe

Henry Ford High School Principal Michael Mokdad

Renaissance High School Principal Anita Williams

Detroit School of the Arts Principal Delois Spryszak

Martin Luther King Jr. Senior High School Principal Deborah Jenkins

Southeastern High School Principal Damian Perry

Frederick Douglass Academy for Young Men Principal Berry Greer

Mumford High School Principal Angela Prince

West Side Academy Principal Andrea Ford-Ayler Western International High School Principal Angel Garcia

Thank you to our crain mentors and supporters In addition to the professional mentors listed along with student staff members in this publication, we wish to thank the following Crain employees for their assistance: KC Crain, Jason Stein, Krishnan Anantharaman, Kristen Pantalena, Eric Cedo, Phil Nussel, Dan Jones and Terry Driscoll.

tHe diagnoStic

May 16. 2018 DetroitDialogue.com 3

Benjamin Carson High School of Science and Medicine | carsondiagnostic.com STudenT life

STudenT life

GREEN AND

njrotc helps student find her passion

fliGHT

the DiAgnostic

bCHS students look at wild blue jay caught by Michigan State university researchers during a visit to the east lansing campus on April 19. AboVe: Junior nataysha owens releases a bird captured as part of the program. leFt: An MSu student gently takes a bird out of a net. the birds were examined and banded before being released back into the wild.

Ben Carson students have amazing experience at MSU By nataysha Owens and Khamrrien Hayes The Diagnostic On April 19, Benjamin Carson High School students went to Michigan State University for a tour. Students explored the Michigan State campus, including the MSU Dairy Store and Brody cafeteria.

During the tour, many students interacted with different species of birds. Some of the students helped the Michigan State staff out by helping them search for birds at a small banding station where they collect data on local wildlife, banding the birds

tHe diagnoStic

editor-in-chief: Anthony Hurst managing editor: Mustafizur Rahman adviser: Grace Walter crain mentor: Chad Livengood

and setting them free again.

With the help of MSU undergrad students, BCHS students found 10 birds on capture nets. Capture nets are used to safely catch birds without harming them.

After the birds were captured, they were put in a bag, pinned to the staff ’s shirts, and brought back to the banding station.

The staff banded the birds and the students were able to release them.

Student wanted to release the birds but they were terrified at the same time. Every student was fascinated by the birds and they wanted to learned more about them.

By nataysha Owens and india flournoy The Diagnostic Whitney Vaughn, who graduated from Benjamin Carson High School in 2016, entered high school planning to be a nurse. During her high school experience she started to change her mind due to the stress involved in becoming a nurse. She ended up in the military.

Benjamin Carson High School’s curriculum focuses on science and medicine, but it also offers the Navy Junior Reserve Vaughn Officer Training Corps, known as NJROTC. NJROTC helps students take on leadership skills.

The program is run by Petty Officers William Justice and Douglas Williams, known to students as POJ and POW. “My mentors are POW and POJ,” said Vaughn. “They worked with me through every step.”

At first, Vaughn was not interested in the NJROTC program.

“When I first saw NJROTC on my schedule I wanted to change it,” said Vaughn. “After a while, I started to like it.”

“She didn’t like to follow rules and regulation,” said Williams. “As time progressed she started to get better.

“Later on in life she found out she can do this, and got it all together.”

NJROTC does not pressure students into the military, but it encourages them. Williams said about 10 percent of students in the program go into the military.

“We’re letting them know that this an option,” said Williams.

“Another way students can go to college.”

Vaughn graduated second out of seven women in her training. She said she loves “being able to be part of something so big and great.”

“Life after high school is going pretty well,” said Vaughn, “with so much more to accomplish.”

photo editor: Thamin Hussain Section editors: Aniqa Usha, Nataysha Owens, Deanna Perkins, Fariha Saira, Brandon Little Staff Writers: Osama Al-Dahan, Kyann Byers-Ussery, Zahra Cham, Ka’Maya Cherry-Hayes, Fatima Cisse, India Flournoy, Mila Halliburton, Khamrrien Hayes, David Hodge, Keshawn Johnson, Mohammed Kahaer, Jonnae Mccalebb, Randale McIntosh, Shawn Messer, Ronnae Reed, Saaheim Rivera, Andre Smith, Taneah Walls, Amir Williams, Diana Wimberly, Diamond Yancey

4 DetroitDialogue.com May 16, 2018 DE T R O I T

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Understanding depression, getting help

By David Hodge, Mona Almathrahi, Osama Al-Dahan and Zahra Cham The Diagnostic Depression is an issue that affects behavior and how people interact with those around them.

This could mean that some people who are usually happy and social could begin acting completely different in a negative way.

According to Harvard Health Publishing, major depression is the most typical type of depression. It can stop some people from enjoying activities they would usually enjoy and bring thoughts of meaninglessness.

Sometimes it can be difficult to realize symptoms of people who are depressed. Some may try to conceal it while others may want an excessive amount of attention. Some may be cheerful and are jokesters to cover up the fact that they’re going through something. It’s important to recognize unusual behavior.

“In fifth grade, there was a boy that always sat in the back of the class,” a Benjamin Carson student who wished to remain anonymous said. “He never talked or interacted with anyone.

There was a group project for the science fair. The teacher assigned us our group of five and he was one of them. As we worked on our project, he did his assigned work but did not talk to us about anything outside of work. After that, he stayed quiet the rest of the year. ” Students need a place to feel comfortable. School is supposed to be a safe place for students.

It gets difficult when there is no support system in that environment. It’s not always easy to know when a student needs help.

“Two years later, I found out that he committed suicide because he couldn’t take life. I then found out that there was a reason he was known as the quiet boy in the fifth grade. I couldn’t help but think that there was something I could’ve done to help him,” the student said.

Are there ways to help?

“If it’s possible, it may be hard to do,” junior Isaac Whitfield said.

The first step is recognizing the problem. Other students and teachers were asked to give their ideas for recognition of depression and some possible signs.

Junior Santez Shepherd said those who are depressed may be “staying to themselves, away from their family and not socializing.”

English teacher Shannon

Benjamin Carson

Depression in children and teens If one or more of these signs of depression persist, seek help from a qualifed mental health professional: • Frequent sadness, tearfulness, crying • Decreased interest in or enjoyment of favorite activities • Hopelessness • Persistent boredom; low energy • Social isolation such as withdrawing from friends and family • Low self esteem and guilt • Extreme sensitivity to rejection or failure • Increased irritability, anger, or hostility • Difficulty with relationships • Frequent complaints of physical illnesses such as headaches and stomachaches • Frequent absences from school or poor performance in school • Poor concentration • A major change in eating and/or sleeping patterns • Talk of or efforts to run away from home • Thoughts or expressions of suicide or self destructive behavior Source: American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry

Waite said depressed people have “a loss of interest in activities that they used to like, pain, not wanting to get out of bed, suicidal thoughts.”

“If you’re sad for one day that’s not depression,” said Waite, “but if you’re sad for a few months, that can be depression.”

If students are ever feeling down and think it’s a deeper issue than sadness, they should reach out to those around them. Treatment for depression is crucial.

Students could see a doctor or therapist if they feel an unusual or intense amount of sorrow. A family member, a friend, a teacher or a counselor who is trusted is also an ideal choice.

The most important thing is to be there for those in need. Be sure to care for those around you and try to have their back as much as possible. Be nice to your peers and treat them as your friend because you never know what someone else is going through.

Try to get your friends to talk about their problems while simultaneously talking about yours.

Communication is key.

The Diagnostic

“One choice changes everything” is a presentation with pharmacists who talk about the dangers of abusing prescription drugs and how popular it has become due to hip-hop trends.

CVS partners with schools to combat RX drug abuse

By André Smith, Mohammed Kahaer, Mustafizur Rahman and Shawn Messer The Diagnostic CVS Pharmacy is partnering with schools in Detroit to raise awareness on prescription drug abuse. “One choice changes everything” is a presentation with pharmacists who talk about the dangers of abusing prescription drugs and how popular it has become due to hip-hop trends.

In a letter to district personnel, Prasanna Angle, a CVS store operations and pharmacy supervisor, wrote, “Prescription drug abuse is considered a national epidemic.”

“We would like to partner with all schools in the community to educate our students on the effects that

Benjamin Carson one choice can change their lives forever,” wrote Angle in the letter.

A prescription drug that is abused by many users is codeine.

Codeine is the main ingredient of a popular drink known by the street names “purple drank” or “lean.”

Due to its popularity in the hip hop world, there are youth who are dying due to the dangers of this drink, according to the CVS presentation.

To educate students on how dangerous this drink is, CVS partnered with Rita Carpenter to tell the story of how her son, Jelani Mcfadden Carpenter, took his own life from drinking Lean. Jelani was a student with many positive attributes, and had a basketball scholarship to

every school where he applied.

On New Years Eve, Jelani’s drink was mixed with something that was not acknowledged before he drank it. When the effects kicked in it caused him to hallucinate, and made him take his own life.

Learning about dangers of lean from the presentation helped BCHS junior Elisha Taylor make the decision to never try lean or be surrounded by people that do.

“Hearing Jelani’s mom tell us how her son died was something I would not wish on any mother,” said Taylor.

“Having more events like “One choice changes everything” would really have a positive effect on... students,” said junior Mila Halliburtion, “and hopefully reduce the amount of people who drink lean.”

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Sleepless and Hungry: Ramadan during the school year

By Fariha Saira and Thamin Ahmed The Diagnostic On May 15, the holy month of Ramadan started for Muslims worldwide. Kids start fasting for Ramadan about the time they reach puberty, which can range from age 7 to the late teens. It’s mandatory in Islam for every Muslim to fast.

This month of fasting starts when students are in school, which can be very overwhelming and stressful. It can often affect students’ sleeping schedules.

Waking up at 3:30 am for prayer

Benjamin Carson and suhoor, the meal consumed early in the morning by Muslims before fasting, can often make it hard to fall back asleep.

“For me, Ramadan has been difficult, especially when it falls during the school year.” said Farjana Begum, a junior at Cass Technical High School.

“When it comes to the sleep schedule, its almost nonexistent,” said Begum,“because there is praying ... by the time everything

is finished it will be around 12:30 a.m.-1 a.m.”

“As a Muslim student, I can say that enduring Ramadan during school is no easy task,” said Benjamin Carson junior Osama Al-Dahan. “We fast from sunrise to sunset, working on assignments and daily tasks. We wake up early for prayer. We persevere through the humid weather. Some people struggle to move, let alone complete exams at 8:00 in the morning and finish strong.”

But I don’t see Ramadan as a restraint,” said Al-Dahan. “I see it as the exact opposite.”

May 16. 2018 DetroitDialogue.com 5

CT VISIONARY

tecHnically SpeaKing A public forum for the community of Cass Technical High School | ctvisionary.com AcAdemicS

dUal enrollment HelpS StUdentS get into college

ct VisionAry

Cass tech Sophomore brooklynn Jackson also participates in the dual enrollment program with WCCCD.

By darnisha S. Williams CT Visionary Dual enrollment or WCCCD gives high school student an easy opportunity to get college credits early. Dual enrollment takes dedication and time because in the end it will eventually pay off.

“The highlights of dual enrollment are being able to take college classes for free,” said Cass student D’AJa Whitfield, who participates

“Dual enrollment give me the opportunity to get used to college workload and learning interesting things that sometimes isn’t offered in regular high school,” Jackson said. “After receiving the full 60 credits they can easily mail them every school. Most accept dual enrollment but mainly of HBCUs. The cons of this program for me are it’s a lot of work and it’s hard to maintain at times and the classes are for long

in the program. “I am able to save money and time by taking classes now, as opposed, to waiting until college. In order to encounter my Associate’s degree I will need 60 credits to graduate.

“One of the cons is trying to study for regular classes and college classes. However, this can be a pro if one has good organizational skills.”

Cass Tech sophomore Brooklynn Jackson also participates.

periods of time. Other than that I would advise student to join and the advice I would give is don’t start too early but don’t start too late either don’t stress yourself out freshman year trying to figure it out and it’s money saving for when you go to college so it’s really a cool benefit for you and your family especially if you start off as a junior in college with

See DUAL on page 28 » STudenT life

STudenT life

Students walk out to protest shootings

not be judged for what they love doing, playing video games and it gives them something to look forward to,” Brevin said.

Quinteros’ response was along the lines of what Brevin said as he begun to give him input.

“Video Game Club is one of the places people can go and let stress out from the amount f work some

By Joelle Sanders, india Burgess and michelle Bake CT Visionary In recent spite of the Parkland, Florida, shooting on Feb. 14 that took the lives of 17 people, students from Cass Technical decided enough was enough and made the choice to stand up and speak out.

In 2012, the Sandy Hook shooting in Connecticut that took the lives of 27 students made a huge impact on students and schools across America. But people felt as if there was no action being taken against the crime that was committed.

After the recent school shooting in Parkland, students have had enough. According to CNN, EMPOWER, the youth branch of the Women’s March organized the student led national walkout that took place on March 14. Many schools and students across the country came together to protest gun policies in America, including Cass Tech.

Senior Amina Khalique, junior Maya Solomon, and sophomore Brooke Solomon came together along with 14 other student participants who wanted to join the cause.

Many students who participated in the walkout were inspired and moved, sophomore Jada Price said.

“I thought the walkout was very powerful,” Price said. “It approached gun violence in a good way and it feels good to see us young people are making a change.

I see how people were determined while chanting with smiles on their faces. I could see that they were encouraged, focused, and

See GAMES on page 28 »

See WALk oUT on page 28 »

ct VisionAry

cass Tech’s Video Game club, run by teacher nicholas lenk, has more than 100 participants.

MORE THAN THE GAMES Popular CT club has more than 100 members

By Richard Jones CT Visionary Here at Cass Technical High School, there are a variety of clubs. Keeping this in mind, this gives a lot of diversity to what

students can choose to do in their spare time. The clubs vary from the different sports clubs, to the different language clubs, and etc.

However, one club in particular stands out amongst them all that appeals to a vast amount of students; the Video Game Club.

Having more than 100 students attending the club, it’s clear to see that it is something unique about the club as it has the most

ct viSionary

tecHnically SpeaKing

students attending a club at Cass Technical High School.

Some students have stated the club to be more like a safe haven than an actual club.

Brevin Washington and Anthony Quinteros, members of the executive board for the Video Game Club, agreed.

“The Video Game Club is a great stress reliever and a safe haven because it allows kids to

adviser: Stephanie Griffin crain mentor: Don Loepp

editors: Oluwaseyi Akintoroye and Estefany Gonzalez Sports editors: Joelle Saunders, Aja Edwards, Aja Gaines

6 DetroitDialogue.com May 16, 2018 opinion

Should feminine care products be free?

By Mya Williams CT Visionary Question, was there ever a time where you went into a public restroom and there was free feminine care for you?

Allow me to answer, probably not, and if it was, then you were extremely lucky. Feminine care has been an issue over the years, as the prices seems to be getting higher and higher. The government has been putting taxes on feminine care as a luxury product but not a medical product.

Women found that to be unfair apparently, and “Tampon Tax” was created. Tampon Tax is “a term used to call attention to the fact those tampons and other feminine hygiene products are subject to value, added taxes at odds with the tax exemption.”

Any women would know if a man would say that feminine care should be free, we also would know that it would be a lot different. We all are entitled to our opinion.

Lataisha Williams, a medical assistant at St. John Hospital, said: “I don’t think that they

Cass Tech (pads and tampons) should be free.”

She thinks that since the cost of living is going up we have to sacrifice something. Prices on pads and tampons have gone up due to the fact that it is a tax on it. And many are trying to banish this tax, all over America.

“Why sell a product that every woman needs, and they know we need,” said Laniyah Stewart, a student at Cass Tech.

She agrees that feminine care should be free and the reason being is that every woman needs it so why sell a product that is a vital necessity.

“They know we need it (feminine care) so they raise the prices so that we could buy it because they know we need it,” Stewart said.

We could surely get free tampons and pads in school, right?

Wrong. If there is a dispenser for feminine products in school or in a public restroom, you have to pay a fee. And also, the

CT Visionary

Recently, debate has increased about the cost of sanitary pads and tampons, leading to efforts to repeal the sales tax on feminine care products.

nurse will have some available, but never give it out. Probably assuming that you’re already covered.

“I support (pads and tampons) being in school,” Williams said. “But not in public restrooms.” People fear that it would

opinion

Are smartphones taking over our lives?

By Halima Begum CT Visionary Need to make a phone call?

Smartphone. Need to text?

Smartphone. Social media?

Smartphone. Homework? Smartphone. Bored? Smartphone.

Rrrriing! The signal for the next hour class rings loudly into the ears of students who rush out of their desks and out of their classrooms. Hala packs her things and makes her way to her locker. The person next to her leans against the lockers, texting away on her phone. Hala then walks through the hallway.

She sees students with their head bent, eyes staring into the bright screen of their phones.

Some had headphones in while others made brief conversations.

Since Hala had lunch for her next hour, she went down to the lunchroom and sat at her usual table. Suddenly, she heard a buzz in her pocket. She took out her phone and saw that she received a text. Hala looked up. The person who texted she was sitting right across her.

Nowadays, technology has created a whole new digital world. Of course, technology has been a helping hand with many different aspects in life, but one question arises from the evolvement of technology: How long until technology overpowers humans?

Most students own a phone or any other type of electronic de-

CT Visionary

Smartphones sit on a desk in a classroom. Are people being helped or hurt by their reliance on their phones?

Cass Tech vice. Not only that, but many use they a bit more than required.

Although it may provide assistance, the idea of maintaining the use of phones to a minimum may serve to be the best option. A recent survey shows that besides academic purposes, 54 percent of students use cell phones to text friends and 52 percent use them to browse social media during class. Smartphones may reduce face to face interaction between people and real life conversations.

When asked about how often she uses her phone to text and

use social media. a Cass Tech senior said: “I use my phone a lot, actually. I use it every day for social media purposes, and especially to text. Oh, and I try not to miss a day without using my phone because I don’t want to lose any streaks on Snapchat!”

Today’s world revolves around technology. Although there are plenty of positive aspects to it, there does exist some negatives. Even children at home cry for the use of phones as they get attached to them. Students use phones so much that when they sometimes do not have their phones with them, it may seem like the end of the world to them.

Cass Tech junior Alisha

said: “I went without using my phone for a day once, when I forgot it at home. It was the worst day ever. I know it sounds silly, but my hands were hungry to hold a phone. That day at school, I couldn’t text or browse social media at all, and it was horrible.”

Communication is the key to a better future. Not only that, but human interaction is significant in order to stay sane. A world with complete and utter loneliness brings about insanity. That being said, many students admitted in a survey that they would be more likely to communicate with people face to face if they did not have a phone; 95 percent of students answered yes to the question while the remaining 5 percent responded with a no.

Phones serve to assist in many ways for students in school, but they do not help in keeping face to face interaction the top priority. Some text so much that they refrain from talking in real life. According to BrandonGaille, “200 trillion text messages are received in the United States every single day.”

Phones were essentially made for long distance calls, but in today’s world it is much more advanced. Though that may not be negative, it is important to keep the use of phones to a minimum. People should realize that there is more to life than just a digital screen.

never be used or that it would be vandalized out of its use.

“Woman and girls would use it, especially in an emergency.”

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Feds propose changing food stamps

By Elycia Lutcher CT Visionary

Cass Tech The Trump administration wants to cut food stamps to lowincome families and change the program to give participants a box of food instead of allowing them to shop at stores.

“It lowers the cost to us because we can buy (at wholesale prices) whereas they have to buy it at retail,” Mick Mulvaney, director of the Office of Management and Budget, said during a press briefing. “It also makes sure they’re getting nutritious food. So we’re pretty excited about that.”

The Trump administration proposes cutting food stamps by $17 billion over the next decade. About 81 percent of SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) households overall are receiving more than $90 per month in benefits would begin receiving about half their benefits in the form of government purchased food items.

Those foods include shelf-stable milk, juice, grains, cereals, pasta, peanut butter, beans, canned meat, and fruits and vegetables, according to the USDA. According to Statistic Brain, See Food on page 28 »

tHe commUnicator

May 16. 2018 DetroitDialogue.com 7

A public forum for the students and community of Communication and Media Arts High School | cmacommunicator.com AcAdemicS

SpORTS

the communicAtor

Senior Vantanae garret accepts her partial ride to university of Michigan-Dearborn for women’s basketball.

the communicAtor

Senior student council (left to right) noah Cravens, niya Cox, and kayla Mallory, pose for a picture while representing their colleges.

COLLEGE

BOund

signing Day starts new path for seniors

By Kai’lynn Taylor The Communicator May 1 was the day the class of 2018 had been waiting for: National Signing Day. Many students made their college choice, while other signed on with the military.

“I feel like this is a new beginning to start life over and open new doors,” senior Kristyana Neal said.

It has been a long road for many seniors this year with deciding with what school and which school is offering them the most money.

Albert McCoy faced many obstacles just to make it to this point. From jail to people telling him he is the normal stereotype African American teenage boy.

He has managed to prove them wrong and has decided to pursue his music career.

McCoy is just one example that has changed society and the

garrett excels on court and off

By dorian cockerham The Communicator There are many high school students that dream of becoming professional athletes. An outstanding student we’re recognizing is student-athlete Vantane Garrett.

Garrett is an senior at Communications & Media Arts High School. She’s not only successful on the basketball court, but also in the classroom, which exemplary of an studentathlete.

Garrett signed with the University of Michigan (Dearborn).

When asked why she chose the University of Michigan she said: “The coach recognized me and gave me the best offers.”

Garrett also received the Miss PSL award, and achievement for the best girl high school basketball player in the league.

Garrett doesn’t only want to make her mark in the WNBA one day but plans to give back to the basketball community in the future.

“I plan to go to the WNBA and open a physical therapy center,” Garrett said.

ct VisionAry

Attending Michigan State university, senior Jaraile Hardrick announces that he will receive a series of scholarships to assist him in paying for school.

way the world thinks.

National Signing Day isn’t just for seniors thats going to a fouryear institution it’s also a day to celebrate people who are going to trade school, military, community college, or going to focus on a dream that they have.

The class of 2018 high school seniors are seeing everything they have worked hard for pay off.

National Signing Day is not just for the students going to a 2 or 4

tHe commUnicator

year institution, they are also for students going into the military.

We honor those who want to help to serve our country and then plan to go to college.

May 1 was the start of students futures and the next steps for their lives. Rather students plan to attend a PWI or a HBCU they all plan to follow their dreams.

For some this might be a reminder of life and for some this is the beginning of a new day.

editor-in-chief: Niya Cox adviser: Robbyn Williams crain mentors: China Haley and Jennifer Vuong

OpiniOn

New Detroit helps people understand racial identities New Detroit is an organization that has been around since 1967. The organization focuses on helping people Tammie all around Declark troit learn more The about themCommunicator selves and their backgrounds.

New Detroit has various leaders

copy editor: Jelani Stowers entertainment editor: Briana Roland Fashion editor: Ariel Lake Feature editor: Janelle Moses

working to help people understand their racial identities.

Leaders consist of Marshalle Montgomery Favor, Suma Karamen Rose, Maria Schmieder, and Lauren Ryder Williams. CMA was the first high school that ran through the program as a pilot.

For the past 6-8 weeks I’ve had the pleasure in partaking in this program. In this program, I learned a lot about myself

See NEW DETRoIT on page 13 »

photo editors: Mye’sha Burnett and Tori Jones political correspondent: Ashley Taylor Sports editor: Kendell Burr

8 DetroitDialogue.com May 16, 2018

tHe HoWler Detroit Cristo Rey High School | cristoreyhowler.com AcAdemicS

THE FINAL BELL

Principal Rowe prepares to retire from Cristo Rey

By Britanny Gomez and Alondra navarro The Howler Earlier this school year, Detroit Cristo Rey Principal Susan Rowe announced that this 43rd year of her educational career would be her last. Rowe, who has been principal of DCR for all of its 10 years, surprised many with this news of her retirement.

Rowe knew early on that she

wanted to work in education and often played school with her siblings. But even with this early passion, Rowe had doubts about her career path.

“I knew I liked that (teaching), I didn’t know if I wanted to actually be a teacher. Also, I studied to be a social worker,” Rowe said.

She soon realized that social work was not her calling and decided to turn to teaching. She

landed her first job in education as a religion teacher at Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic school in Farmington. Eventually, she was offered a teaching job at University of Detroit Jesuit High School.

In her 24 years at U of D, Rowe held positions as campus minister, dean of students and assistant principal. The idea See RoWE on page 10 »

the howler

principal Susan rowe speaks at a Detroit Cristo rey commencement ceremony at Ste. Anne de Detroit Church.

OpiniOn

SpORTS

cristo rey baseball takes it one inning at a time

along with many more powerful messages in an effort to encourage legislation on guns. Over 800 more marching events throughout the nation and around the world took place that day.

The march wasn’t the only event held to support the cause.

On March 14, Detroit Cristo Rey also participated in a walk-out the week before. Students from all

By Jorge Reyna The Howler We have heard of the underdog teams in movies like “Major League,” “Hardball,” and “The Perfect Game.” In the heart of Southwest Detroit, we see a young baseball team with a plan to take the game one inning at a time.

Detroit Cristo Rey Baseball started five years ago as a club sport and by the 2016 season earned their school a varsity title.

As a program that is still growing, the team doesn’t focus on wins and losses but the growth of each player and being able to compete with bigger schools.

The Wolves’ baseball team is run by coach Orlando Martinez and assistant coaches Colbert Lucey, Irving Feliz and Ray Gutierrez. Martinez took the job in 2017 and has seen growth in the program from when it first started varsity in 2016 to now.

This growth has been not only in wins, but also discipline and eligibility.

“There has been a lot of discipline and fundamentals we have learned, but I am mostly happy about (academic) eligibility of our athletes to keep up their grades,” said Martinez. “Grades come first.

When you hear ‘student athlete,’ the word ‘student’ comes first.”

Since 2017, Martinez has used

See STAND on page 13 »

See BASEBALL on page 12 »

JAcKelyn gilDo/the howler

Detroit Cristo rey students stand on Vernor Avenue to raise awareness of gun violence during the #enough national School Walkout.

Teens stand against gun violence

By Jackelyn Gildo The Howler “In 2016, the NRA spent a record $55 million on elections. Their real goal is to protect a few big gun manufacturers who want to enlarge their profits.” — Robert Reich Gun Violence is something that is being discussed much today. There are over 35,000 deaths a year due to firearms.

This is clearly an issue that needs to be solved, not just ad-

dressed. Solutions are constantly proposed, yet the problem has not been resolved. But maybe something will finally wake us up. Groups of young people are changing America with their desire to do something to end gun violence.

After the mass shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida, many people, especially teenagers, are trying to raise awareness

tHe HoWler

on the issue of gun violence. On March 24, there was a studentled event, “March For Our Lives,” to strengthen gun control.

Not only students, but teachers and other supporters marched on the streets of Washington D.C. with signs making statements such as, “TOO OLD TO CREATE CHANGE? MOVE ASIDE: WE’LL DO IT,” “#GUN CONTROL NOW,” and “#PROTECT PEOPLE NOT GUNS,”

adviser: Sydney Redigan-Barman crain mentor: Hannah Lutz

Staff Writers: Jackelyn Gildo, Britanny Gomez, Giovanna Gomez, Jessica Gutierrez, Yumeri Jimenez, Olga Luna, Yoceline Magdaleno, Paula Morales, Alondra Navarro, Daisy Ovalle, Nicolas Perales, Jorge Reyna, Cecilia R. Rodriguez

May 16, 2018 DetroitDialogue.com 9 academics

academics

The Howler

Cristo Rey students and CWSP supervisors at the 2018 Corporate Work Study Appreciation Breakfast.

Work study program challenges students

By Olga Luna The Howler As Thomas Edison, the innovative inventor of the electric light bulb, once said: “Most people miss Opportunity because it is dressed in overalls and looks like work.”

Many teenagers entering Detroit Cristo Rey High School have had a summer job or a part-time job at some point throughout their lives. The Cristo Rey Network, which consists of a total of 32 Catholic high schools, is the only network of high schools in the U.S. that provides its students with four years of college preparatory education and professional work experience with an opportunity known as the Corporate Work Study Program (CWSP).

Corporate Work Study is a program that began with the first Cristo Rey high school, Cristo Rey Jesuit in Chicago, as a way to help finance the new school. The income earned by the students in their work location pays for a portion of their tuition, while the families of the students pay another portion based on their current income. The CWSP is also designed to help its participants gain real-life work experience.

Many students attending Detroit Cristo Rey High School currently have part-time jobs after school and during the weekends.

Working for a partner in Detroit Cristo Rey is quite a different experience than working in a typical location a teenager may be expected to work in with their limited experience. In the average worksite, a certain position offered to a teenager by a family member or friend does not necessarily require a degree or particular work experience. On the other hand, students in the Work Study Program are placed in positions where an individual would definitely require a degree if he or she were to work in that particular field and location without being part of the CWSP. When students first attend Detroit Cristo Rey, they receive specific training courses that

Detroit Cristo Rey better prepare them for their new work positions. From teaching students how to better communicate with others to learning different aspects that allow them to be more professional and aware in their worksites, the Summer Training offered to all freshmen upon entering Detroit Cristo Rey trains and guides students to be prepared for their new jobs. Students learn how to carry themselves with sophistication and professionalism, which can be difficult adjusting to if high expectations and standards have not been imposed in a person since before entering high school. It challenges students to reach their highest potential and opens new opportunities in their careers.

The placement of each student is based on the student’s interests and career aspirations as well as the needs of the partners. Not everyone receives the opportunity of working for the particular company or field he or she chooses, but according to CWSP director Fred Lumpkin, most students are able “to build the knowledge, skills, and self-confidence to be successful in higher education, in the workplace and in life.”

There are some requirements that must be fulfilled by all the school’s partners in order for them to be able to participate in the program, such as being able to sustain a student’s paycheck and having sufficient and specific assignments prepared for a student. All supervisors receive a special training that prepares them for having a Detroit Cristo Rey student.

Freshman Year Working in the Corporate World can be a source of excitement, especially if it is a student’s first job; however, it can also cause a student to feel really nervous on their first day of work, or even the first couple of months. If it can be difficult adjusting to a regular job See Work on page 21 »

Jorge Reyna/ The Howler

The Cristo Rey Journalism Staff at Journalism Day at Comerica Park.

student journalists inspired at Tigers event

By Jorge Reyna The Howler If your dream is to be a writer, media photographer, or a broadcaster then you’re in the world of journalism. On April 19, Metro Detroit area schools came together for the annual “#ClassOutside - Journalism Day” at Comerica Park, hosted by Fox 2 News Anchor Amy Andrews in downtown Detroit. The schools met at the park at 10 a.m., three hours before gametime, and sat behind the Tigers’ dugout for a presentation from journalists from a variety of backgrounds.

Before the journalist introductions, students were asked to go on their individual twitter accounts and ask their own questions using #ClassOutside for a chance to win a prize from the Detroit Tigers (one of the prizes won by Jorge Reyna from Detroit Cristo Rey).

First to present her experience as a journalist was the day’s host — Andrews from Fox 2 News. Andrews told students her day starts at 2:30 a.m just to go to the studio to get ready for her day of reporting. Before journalism came across her mind she wanted to become a doctor and transferred to Oakland University after three years of pre-med study. She gave

Detroit Cristo Rey students the advice to take any internship they can get as she didn’t start off as an anchor but as an editor in Colorado.

Andrews ended her time by telling the students, “Now more than ever, we need solid journalists to seek the truth.” There are journalist who look for facts from one side and don’t look at the the situation as a whole.

Journalists should not only look for the truth but provide support with reliable sources.

Next to speak was Max King, coordinator of athletic communication at Oakland University.

He said he always had a dream to be involved with athletics as a career choice. King and his team handle media relations, social media, website maintenance, gameday operations, and interviews are set up through PR teams for reporters which creates publicity for the team. King and his team are also responsible for website maintenance that involves photos, videos, recap, stats, and rosters. Just like Andrews he advised students to “say yes” to any opportunities or internships that are offered to you and to look at the outcome.

The third speaker, Robin

Buckson, mentioned how her passion for journalism started in high school when she took pictures for her high school yearbook. Buckson is a photographer for The Detroit News and has taken images of many of Detroit’s famous athletes. Buckson mentioned her struggles as a photographer in the pre-digital camera era, when film was inserted in camera and had to be processed before results could be seen. Buckson is currently taking high quality shots at many events that are held in Detroit.

The benefits of growing up speaking another language can be huge, like they were for Bryan Loor-Almonte, bilingual media relations coordinator for the Detroit Tigers. Before working for the Tigers he minored in sports management at Baruch College in New York and hoped to fulfill his dream of becoming a general manager. Although he never acquired an internship during college, upon graduating, he still found employment working in player development with the New York Knicks because he is friends with a daughter of the now former Knicks’ Head Coach, Mike Woodson. Now working for the Tigers, his aim is See JOURNALISTS on page 13 »

10 DetroitDialogue.com May 16, 2018 E n t e rta i n m e n t

Review: ‘Infinity War’ offers tears, satisfaction

By Giovanna Gomez The Howler Warning: Spoilers ahead.

For 10 years now, the Marvel Cinematic Universe has been creating amazing movies: Iron Man, Captain America, Ant-Man, Thor, and the Guardians of the Galaxy.

With 2018’s Avengers:Infinity War, these beloved characters come together in one action/sci-fi movie, directed by Anthony Russo and Joe Russo.

The movie stars Robert Downey Jr, Chris Evans, Josh Brolin, and many more. Iron Man, Captain America, Hulk, and the rest of the Avengers come together with Black Panther, Guardians of the Galaxy, and Spider-Man, to fight the evil and powerful Thanos. Thanos is on a mission to collect all six Infinity Stones to inflict his twisted will on humankind. The fate of the planet and everything else in existence is uncertain when everything the Avengers and everyone else has fought for leads up to this.

The movie begins where we last saw Thor, in Thor: Ragnarok, on his way to earth with Hulk, Loki, and with the rest of the survivors of Asgard. Thanos knows Loki has the tesseract and has come to retrieve it. Thanos will stop at nothing; he killed Heimdall after he helped Hulk go back to Earth after Hulk lost against Thanos in a fight. Thanos also killed Loki after he tried to save his brother, Thor, from Thanos.

Marvel Studios

The Avengers, played by Don Cheadle, Chris Evans, Scarlett Johansson, Anthony Mackie, Chadwick Boseman, Sebastian Stan and Danai Gurira, battle Thanos in “Avengers: Infinity War.”

Thanos then leaves and heads to planet Cron, where the Collector lives, to get the Reality Stone.

Thanos continues his journey to other planets to find the Soul Stone. He finally finds the stone on planet Vormir where Red Skull is the protector of this stone.

Thanos had to kill Gamora to get the stone, a soul for the Soul.

At this point, he now has three of

Detroit Cristo Rey the six stones. Thanos then goes to planet Titan to get the Time stone from Doctor Strange. Finally, Thanos arrives on Earth to get the last stone, the Mind Stone. Everyone that’s currently on earth fights Thanos to stop him from getting to Vision. No one can stop him and

he gets the stone, and in a snap kills millions of people.

Overall the movie exceeded its expectations. It left you in shock and had you at the edge of your seat. The actors did an extraordinary job at portraying their characters. They stayed true to the comics and didn’t change a lot. They appealed to pathos, your emotion, and used this to

E n t e rta i n m e n t

E n t e rta i n m e n t

Review: ‘Love, Simon’ bittersweet coming of age, coming out story

By Giovanna Gomez and Daisy Ovalle The Howler This year has seen the premier of many great films, such as “Black Panther,” “Red Sparrow,” “Midnight Sun” and “The Strangers.” Each movie is great in its own genre, but one teen drama/ romance film has had teens talking: “Love, Simon,” directed by Greg Berlanti.

The film tells the story of high schooler Simon Spier (played

by Nick Robinson) and his best friend Leah Burke (played by Katherine Langford). Simon keeps a secret from his friends and family that he’s itching to let out, but he is petrified by the idea that they will not accept him for who he is.

The movie begins with Simon picking up his best friends and heading to school. Leah calls him and lets him know that someone on a social media page anonymously came out as gay. Simon immediately feels like he should email the person and let them know that he understands what he’s going through, that he is also gay. Throughout the movie, Simon tries to figure out who this person

keep you hooked on the story.

Most would leave sad because so many characters we love died, but in the end people left in tears and satisfaction. You don’t have a been a huge fan to appreciate a fantastic film. You could just be a fan of one of the characters and still be able to enjoy the film. In the end you might end up being fans of other characters as well.

Podcasts grow in popularity Cass Tech

20th Century Fox

From left, Jorge Lendeborg, Nick Robinson, Alexandra Shipp and Katherine Langford in a scene from “Love, Simon.”

Detroit Cristo Rey is so he can tell him how he feels.

Robinson expertly portrayed what it’s like to be gay in your teens: the struggles that you go through, trying to come out to the people you love who may not see you the same way. Robinson did a great job of showing these

struggles. In one scene, his classmates and his parents find out he is gay. No one talks to him and he feels alone. This is an excellent scene because it seems so genuine and displays excellent acting.

As a guest star on the Ellen Degeneres Show, Robinson, revealed that while filming, his brother came out as gay. This game Robinson a better under-

standing of the struggles of his character. Robinson said that filming this movie also brought him closer to his brother.

Robinson’s connection to the story provides another layer of meaning to one of the first mainstream romance movies about a gay teenager. As the film ends, viewers are left feeling happy and bittersweet.

By Aja Edwards CT Visionary Podcast: digital audio file that can be heard on a mobile device or computer, typically available as a series, new installments of which can be received by subscribers automatically. Podcast are also described as radio without the music. The podcast business has become a force to be reckoned with and the new wave of media.

In 2008 there were only 10,000 podcast in the U.S., and 10 years later in 2018 the new source of media has grown to nearly 500,000 broadcasted in 100,000 different languages across the U.S. The podcast that took everyone by storm was a series titled Serial.

Serial was a weekly show based on crime and was released in October 2014 and has reached mor See Podcast on page 11 »

May 16, 2018 DetroitDialogue.com 11 st u d e n t l i f e

NHS promotes generosity with clothing drive

By Yoceline Magdaleno The Howler Detroit Cristo Rey High School is a school that promotes generosity and teaches students the importance of giving and caring for others.

Beginning in April, the DCR National Honor Society began a clothing drive to provide the homeless with items that aren’t usually given or available to them for example underwear, it’s usually considered awkward offering but its something homeless need.

The National Honor Society

is a group of students who want to create change for the community.

Last year they thought of a clothing drive and encouraged students to participate in a generous act by donating socks and underwear for people in need. NHS students created posters to motivate others to be engage, they also spoke out during announcements to grab students’ attention by using different statistics on how much help the homeless need yet society lack to give.

The school also allowed

Podcast

Rowe

from page 10

from page 8

than 230 million downloads.

Podcast are so popular, because they keep the mind active and engaged without screen time.

Podcast can be educational, lifestyle, pop culture based and more, the topics on what a podcast can be about an endless. A man from the eastside of Detroit made those opportunities of what a podcast is and what it can be about endless for the podcasters and storytellers of Audio Wave Network.

Audio Wave Network is based in Detroit Test Lab, on Mack and Chalmers. Audio Wave Network is owned by Jonathan Galloway, also known as JG. JG began recording his own podcast, Negus with a Podcast or NWP in July 2015. NWP is about a group of friends coming together and talking about their lives, stories, and commentary on the world. JG had the opportunity to take the podcast to the mainstream, Loud Speakers Network. Loud Speakers Network is the home to famous and trailblazing podcast such as The Read. Instead JG decided against it and created his own network in Detroit.

Audio Wave Network was founded November 2016 with only three shows, NWP, Sips, Flix, and Chix, and FRMSCRATCH. With those three shows the network has blown up, now housing over 15 shows including Young, Broke, and Learning a podcast started by three Cass Tech students about their struggles as teenagers.

Podcast are the next wave of media. It’s a way to keep your mind running without screen time. Audio ave network has created big opportunities for Detroiters to tell their stories, allowing black narratives to be told. Podcast can be found on Apple iTunes, Spotify, SoundCloud and Tidal.

of becoming a principal was something she never planned on. However, Rowe realized she could become a leader when she was told by others, “You know what, you might really be good at being a dean of students, or being a campus minister, or a principal,” Rowe recounted.

In 2001, Rowe was offered the role of principal at U of D, becoming the first female principal of the all-male, Jesuit high school. Having been the principal at U of D for six years, she accomplished many things. When asked about her biggest accomplishment, Rowe said, “helping young men look at God in their lives through the Kairos Retreat when I was Campus Minister at U of D Jesuit.”

Starting From Scratch Rowe eventually realized that the boys at U of D were already prepared to go to college and she felt called to transition to a school that needed a principal.

When the opportunity came to open a Cristo Rey model school in Detroit, Rowe jumped at the chance. Opening a new school provided many challenges, explained Rowe, especially the need to prove this school could work. The school began with only six teachers and a freshman class of 76 students. They were “starting from nothing,” said Mike Khoury, president of Detroit Cristo Rey, who was also with the school from the beginning.

Ten years later, Khoury remains impressed with Rowe’s leadership.

“She has built a strong academic environment from scratch, literally from scratch - no plan, no teachers,” he said.

In Rowe’s eyes, her biggest accomplishment is having the pleasure of seeing every student be successful.

“We have a very strong col-

Detroit is home to Audio Wave Network

Detroit Cristo Rey NHS to place plastic containers in the hallways allowing students to drop off any donations.

The Clothing Drive is a traditional way of collecting clothes for homeless, however, NHS specifically asked students to bring underwear and socks, since the homeless individuals do not have much available and often must prioritize food.

“When you think about donating you normally think

about cloth but people tend to forget that they also wear socks and underwear,” said Esmeralda Hermosillo, a junior and NHS member.

Emmanuel Servin, senior and leader of the project, added, “It’s a simple way for DCR to make a difference in the lives of those who truly need it.”

NHS wants students to contribute in the change on their own without being asked too.

“The original idea involved a point system and prizes to the class who donated the

most, but was altered since it was declared that people should do good for the good of it, not for prizes,” said Servin.

Instead of a point system, NHS created a poster that states their goals: 500 pairs of socks, 500 pairs of underwear, 250 miscellaneous. Despite this concrete goal, Servin said the amount received does not matter much.

“What is most important is that people recognize that they can make a difference in the lives of others through any acts of generosity” said Servin.

Principal ends 43-year career at Cristo Rey

The Howler

Principal Susan Rowe (right), Assistant Principal Joellyn Valgoi and a DCR alumna.

lege prep curriculum, that’s not something that just happens by magic, you really have to work at it,” said Rowe. “In a lot of schools they just assume it happens but somebody has to make it happen.”

One Big Family Not only has Rowe been at DCR since the beginning but so, too, has Mary Jo Evans, fixture of the athletic department.

“The day we started, which was our beginning mass of The Holy Spirit, we lead all the students in and she turned to me, side by side, grabbed my hand and squeezed it and she said to me, ‘Well here we go on a new adventure, Ms. Evans.’”

Anna Guzman, administrative assistant for Rowe, recalled many fond memories, including,

“the fun times that we shared together since July 2008: school events, GEMS, proms and graduations.”

Rowe’s announcement of her retirement was met with many “mixed emotions,” said Khoury.

“I’m happy she has achieved retirement,” he said. “On a personal level it will be different, I will miss not having my confidant.”

For students and staff, Rowe has been not only an academic leader, but a welcoming and supportive presence in the school.

“My first day here, I was so lost, and she directed me where to go,” said senior Fernanda Nino.

“She has always been supportive,” said Karla Gudino, math teacher.

A gift to Detroit Cristo Rey After 43 years in the education field, Rowe has proven to be a great teacher, principal, leader, and friend. Rowe will be missed for all she has done for the school.

“I will miss her, I will miss everything about her,” said assistant academic principal Joellyn Valgoi. “I will miss how important she’s been in my life, and I will miss her inspiration on a daily basis.”

As the final bell approaches, the DCR community continues to reflect on the impact Rowe has made on the school, community, and the lives of individuals who have known her.

“Good things happened to us since Mrs. Rowe has been here,” said Khoury. “She has been a gift to our school.”

12 DetroitDialogue.com May 16, 2018

JOURNALISTS Students heard advice from Detroit media from page 9

Baseball

Program became varisty sport just two years ago from page 8

the phrase “one inning at a time” for his athletes. When the players hear that, they remember to take it slow and gradually process information that coaches provide.

Martinez on the other hand is one step ahead from other coaches, doing research, looking at statistics, and making a game plan ahead of time.

“Baseball is like chess, you need a plan and you need to lead and execute,” he said.

Assistant coach Colbert Lucey is not only a coach but also a history teacher of many of the athletes on the team. Lucey has been able to manage updates of players grades, study halls, and conditioning with the team. Because Detroit Cristo Rey is a small school with a roster, hard work and time management skills are essential, he said.

The Wolves’ baseball team consists of juniors, sophomores, freshmen and one senior. The only senior, Christian Perales (outfield), will head to Dartmouth to start his college life as an example of academic excellence. Perales said he is happy to leave his final season with team recognition, something the school doesn’t always receive for its small programs.

Another standout athlete is a sophomore who hopes to pursue baseball in college: Edgar Romo (pitcher, third base, short stop).

Romo, unfortunately, was unable to play freshman year with DCR but made a comeback with constant training to play with his summer team, the Southwest Aztecs, in Ohio for their final tour-

Jorge Reyna/The Howler

Junior Ricardo Campos, sophomore Edgar Romo, and junior Sebastian Zamora at practice.

TOP: The Cristo Rey Wolves at practice.

BELOW: A batter hits a practice ball into the field during a practice of the Cristo Rey Wolves baseball team.

nament of the season. The young athlete is on the rise to a bright future, while pursuing work on his own and practicing with his travel team in the summer.

Junior Rigoberto Morales (outfield) is another example of a student who exemplifies commitment to his team. Morales balances school, robotics and baseball. He finds that the team’s winter workouts and his own nutritional regimen have been beneficial not only during baseball but also in his normal life outside of school. Morales has goals to be a role player on the team and to constantly improve his own game.

“I hope to play more roles as I grow and be more of a flexible player,” he said.

Even though baseball is not his primary sport, freshman Gabby Becerril (outfield) and his commitment to improving at baseball shows true perseverance. As a beginner in the sport, he admitted to struggling with the transition of trying a new sport, but never walked away from what he started and has continued to learn.

“I learned to be dedicated to my work and progress, in order

to be successful in the game of baseball,” Becerril said.

Detroit Cristo Rey is still a young team in the big ocean that is MHSAA baseball. The school in Southwest Detroit doesn’t have the advantage of having 100 kids show up for a tryout or having a junior varsity and a varsity team.

The team still competes with a tight roster of 13 to play the best game they can, and competes

with bigger programs like Gabriel Richard High School (Riverview) and Shrine High School (Royal Oak).

“The big goal through this season is to prepare for districts and to compete, so a small sports program can have some hardware,” said Martinez. “For right now the focus is to not take it one game at a time but to take it one inning at a time.”

to help players who are not proficient English speakers to attain a voice and to be able to express themselves and their unique personalities Next was another Tigers employee, Mac Slavin, Tigers media coordinator, who manages the team’s social media platforms.

Slavin studied print journalism at Wartburg College in Iowa and after graduating, was able to road trip with PBS, where he blogged and promoted TV shows. Slavin’s closing remarks were centered around following your own individual goals and not following what others expect from you unless you want to do it. “Don’t be a doctor because your mom wants you to be a doctor, be a doctor because you want to be one,” Slavin said.

Last but certainly not least was a man who has been in broadcasting for many years: Mike Tirico, nationally-known sportscaster who touts experience with ESPN Monday Night Football, NBC Olympic coverage and more.

Tirico grew up in New York City, went on to graduate from Syracuse University and set out many routes to achieve his goal of being part of the national media scene. Tirico got his start in sports journalism by writing stories for high school sports and learned to be over-prepared when he ever conducts interviews. One of Tirico’s most recent assignments was for NBC at the Winter Olympics, which was broadcast worldwide.

Tirico’s closing remarks were geared toward aspiring student journalists, as he asked, “Are you the most prepared person in the room?”

In addition to the seminar, students were welcomed to stay for the Tigers-Orioles game. Indeed, it certainly was a good day to be a Tigers fan, as the hometown team satisfied the student journalists with a 13-8 victory.

The students saw familiar faces like Miguel Cabrera, who went 3 for 5, and Jose Iglesias who went 3 for 5 with 3 RBI. People were also looking out for new players like Leonys Martin, who went 3 for 5 with a home run in the bottom of the 5th and ended with a total of 4 RBI. Students and journalism advisers had a chance to hear from those who are at a level that most journalism students hope to reach one day. Speakers were also kind enough to let students have contact information to reach out for help and support as they prepare for future stories and assignments.Tirico was available during the game for photos and conversations with students. He said the keys that all journalism students should know are preparation, to spread your name, and say “yes” to any opportunity you can get.

May 16, 2018 DetroitDialogue.com 13 st u d e n t l i f e

DE T R O I T

Peaceful protest or walkout? City sees

By Tammie Clark The Communicator Some will call it a peaceful protest, while others will call it a walkout. There has been much controversy about whether the walkout was in condolences to the victims’ families or if it was a protest of gun violence.

On March 14, from 10 a.m. to

10:17 a.m., students around the nation stood outside in a moment of silence to honor those who lost their lives in Parkland, Florida.

Many students across the world participated in the walk out as well.

One school that joined the movement was CMA. CMA junior Marchuon Heardon said: “I am sending my sympathy to the

Communication & Media Arts families and the 17 students that lost their lives due to gun violence in Parkland, Florida, because it is a very disheartening situation.”

Over the past few months, shootings and safety of students has

been a hot topic. Since the beginning of the year, there were up to 18 school shootings. These shootings are the clearly a call for stricter gun laws in the U.S. CMA junior Toni Golston said, “I really do believe that this walkout was a true and definite call for help and away to help keep gun violence to a minimum.”

opinion

Should teachers carry weapons in school?

Ashley Taylor The Communicator

Since recent school shootings, it has become a popular idea that teachers will carry weapons in school. There are some who feel honored to

Stand

Students try to bring change through walkout from page 9

grades, staff and principal Susan Rowe stood in silence for 17 minutes in dedication to the 17 lives lost in the shooting.

“As soon as I heard about it, I wanted to participate,” said sophomore Estrella Escutia. “It’s just something that I feel really strong about.”

The 17 minutes of silence offered a time of reflection for the students.

“I felt like I was a part of something bigger,” said Estrella of her thoughts at the time. “And I felt like we were all making a change.”

Perhaps the walk-out really did create greater awareness of the issue, but some young people worry that real change will not happen within our current society.

“Young people will always be ruled by elders with agendas,” said junior Jacob Walker. “This situation will only change when the NRA is ready to give up millions in profits every year.”

be able to further help students, and some who consider it to be a burden, placed in their work environment.

“I don’t want that on my conscience, if something goes badly,” said school counselor Valarie Foulks said.

Others worry about the poten-

Due to the greedy, capitalistic values of America, it is unlikely that this will change. The NRA is profit-oriented and will promote the selling of unnecessary weapons, or weapons to individuals who are not safe to carry, if it feeds their pockets.

In the wake of these increased school shootings, some lawmakers have proposed bills to arm teachers and security guards within schools. Walker questioned this: “In order to prevent gun violence in schools, we’re going to put more guns in schools?

There’s just too many ‘what-ifs’ to justify the idea,” he said.

“I feel as safe at DCR as the Columbine and Stoneman Douglas students felt,” said Walker.

“How do you know when someone is going to snap?”

He brings up a vital point.

Nowadays no one is ever sure or can truly know someone’s deep intentions. These shootings are a crime that, alas, isn’t shocking anymore. And discretion for safety must be used in all locations, not just schools. Surely, these politicians need to take a closer look at the nation and analyze the consis-

Communication & Media Arts tial dangers of having a weapon without being trained to use it.

“I am not a police officer. I am not a security guard. I am a teacher.

If I wanted to be trained to use a weapon for protection, I would’ve went to the police academy,” said Kathryn Seabron.

There is a lot that comes into mind when considering arming teachers with weapons. Most teachers would prefer to be armed with resources, not weapons.

JACKELYN GILDO/The Howler

Detroit Cristo Rey students stand on Vernor Avenue to raise awareness of gun violence during the #enough National School Walkout.

tency of violence happening. Only then will they understand why this violence continues.

The walk-out was designed to give a moment to the victims, but the overall message conveys many Americans’ hope for an end to gun violence. Teenagers are tired of accepting things the way the are, they shouldn’t have to be afraid of leaving their houses. Individuals shouldn’t be able to purchase assault rifles without a license and a background check. Society can’t get rid of violence, but it can get rid of

guns. There has to be change.

It is spectacular to see groups of young people finally stepping forward because even they don’t approve of the cruel world we live in. May the youth continue to march and project their voices in society for the older generation to understand that they are the new elevators of universal hope.

“The real change shouldn’t be too far away,” said Walker. “Both locally and nationally, the attention this walk-out received was a great way to make people think and talk.”

building boom Communication & Media Arts

By Morris Mckee The Communicator Detroit is seeing a development and construction boom that it hasn’t seen in decades. From buildings that were vacant for decades (the Metropolitan Building , the James Scott Mansion), to some that are currently vacant and hold a prominent location (like the Old Wayne County Building), in the coming years we’ll see these buildings filled with residential, hotels, office space, and more.

Visitors who arrive in Detroit expecting an apocalyptic landscape will be stunned by what they find. After years of population decline and hitting rock bottom with the declaration of bankruptcy in 2013, Detroit is now back on track. The once grim downtown is packed with pedestrians, pedal taverns have hit the streets and cranes punctuate the skyline: more than $24 billion has been invested in commercial, retail and residential projects since 2006. (lonelyplanet.com) There are buildings in downtown Detroit that are being modernized and restored that could be finished by next year. These buildings include the Wurlitzer Building, The Shinola Hotel, and Saint Charles Residences. ”I’m happy that the city of Detroit is trying.The biggest thing that people think when they hear Detroit is violence and vacancy. I know there is so much more to it than that. I’m just glad we can show it now,” CMA senior Myles Lyons said.

New Detroit Program helps people learn their history from page 7

opinion

Trump deports ‘Dreamers’ protected by Obama There has been much controversy and debate about the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program impleAmaris mented during Hampton the Obama The Communicator administration, and President Trump’s decision to deport undocumented immigrants. In Septempter, the Trump adminis-

tration announced plans to rescind the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program, which protects so-called “Dreamers” from deportation. Part of Trump’s rationale was a “big flow of people” entering from Mexico “to take advantage of DACA.” DACA was created by Obama to allow young immigrants living in the U.S. illegally who were brought here as children to stay in the U.S. “Dreamers” don’t receive the same benefits or rights as Americans. Instead of a green

Communication & Media Arts card, DACA citizens are given work permits, that when expired, aren’t renewed in a timely manner.

DACA’s biggest issues are the court trials and Trump’s denouncements. Trump has repeatedly used slurs against immigrants, calling them “criminals and rapists.” In the trials, people wanted to use these slurs and some from

previous campaigns as evidence against Trump but judges have appealed this motion. Until further notice, DACA administrations are to keep sending out applications.

CMA Vice Principal Tiffany Cox said, “Immigrants who go through the right processes and have clean records should be welcomed here.”

CMA senior Samuel Oladeru, a Nigerian immigrant said, “As long as immigrants have the right credentials, they should be allowed to stay.”

and where I actually come from.

While I took the pre-survey, I noticed the question, “Where do you think your ancestors come from”?

As a natural instinct I put Africa.

The second week being into the program I was able to take a DNA test with Ancestry. I waited three to four weeks for my results and when I received them, I was shocked. My highest three percentages were Ivory Coast/Ghana with 27 percent, Nigeria with 26 percent, and Senegal with 13 percent. I was really shocked because, these are places in Africa, so my common conjecture was accurate.

I’m very interested about diving in and learning more.

14 DetroitDialogue.com May 16, 2018

tHe dSa midtoWn tea Detroit School of the Arts | dsamidtowntea.com deTROiT

“I always used to look at the fashion section of the New York Times and when I finally saw our picture with an article about our fashion, I knew we had arrived.”

— STepHAnie dicKeY

URBAN CHIC OF STEF-N-TY

couple create clothing retailer

By Seavion Jones The DSA Midtown Tea mong the eclectic fashion community in Detroit, Stef-N-Ty, a clothing retailer featuring one-of-a-kind hats and jewelry, is one of Detroit’s premier design companies. The concept of Stef-N-Ty is created by the married design team Stephanie and Tyrone Dickey.

Stef-N-Ty offers urban chic hats, clothing and jewelry for men and women. They have a store located in the North End neighborhood of Detroit. They sell a variety of items such as hats, scarves, watches, comic books, jackets and much more. They’re known for their hats that can fit people with large hair.

Stefanie says that she and Ty didn’t start off making hats and that it was her great grandmother that taught her how to sew.

“I didn’t start off with hats in the very beginning, I learned how to sew at a very early age from my great grandmother,” Stefanie said. “And then once I got older I decided that my dream was to design a line of clothes. I was inspired by the move Mahogany and my dream was to become rich and famous and go to New York.”

On in New York, she began to make her own hats.

“Eventually I moved to New York and I designed mainly

A

photos courtesy of stef-n-ty

Stephanie and tyrone Dickey operate Stef-n-ty, a clothing retailer for men and women in the north end neighborhood of Detroit. their work has been featured in essence Magazine, the new york times Style Section and Detroit’s blAC magazine. AboVe: Hats designed by Stef-n-ty line a display wall.

menswear,” she said. “And I also decided to let my hair go natural, now I can’t find a hat. So the hat thing just came naturally. I didn’t set out to be a hat designer, I set out to be a fashion designer.

Once I made hats that fit me, you know you have to make some for your friends and then you have to make it for the world. I took a bag full of hats to harlem and started selling them and that’s how we started doing the hats.”

Stefanie and Ty met in Washington D.C. but now all about

tHe dSa midtoWn tea

Detroit.

“We originally met in D.C. and then went to New York and then left New York and went to Baltimore, the left and when to Philadelphia, then Chicago and the cold drove us out of Chicago and we went back to Maryland for a couple years and lastly Detroit.

This is where we will stay.”

Stefanie and Ty said Detroit offered a great market and comparable living conditions.

While New York’s living accommodations were challenging,

editor-in-chief: Seavion Jones managing editor: Miracle Craft

the city certainly help launch their clothing line with support from big names including, Spike Lee, Erykah Badu, Wyclef Jean, and Motown’s own Stevie Wonder. Their fashion also graced the covers of several new artists of Sony Records and on the comedy series Def Comedy Jam. In terms of publications, Stef and Ty have been featured in in several editions of Essence Magazine, the New York Times Style Section, BLAC magazine and many others.

adviser: Beverly Morrison-Green mentor: Joy Visconti

“I always used to look at the fashion section of the New York Times and when I finally saw our picture with an article about our fashion, I knew we had arrived,” Stefanie said.

“Detroit is a very strong community and particularly a Black community which is very important to us. We wanted to continue to support the Black community and what’s going on here. We have people from other countries asking us to move there, but Detroit is definitely our home.”

copy editor: Jasmine Stewart photographer: Alyssa Richards Staff Writers: Ariel Brown, Kennedi Carter

May 16. 2018 DetroitDialogue.com 15

eye oF tHe HUrricane Frederick Douglass Academy for Young Men | douglasseye.com AcAdemicS

eye of the hurricAne

Director bruce Harper and Dennis talbert, who also sat on the panel, poses with senior students Markell Stokes and tarae’ Harris.

Students learn about 1967 detroit eye of the hurricAne

Senior Darryl Stokes was mentored by Frederick Douglass Academy principal principal greer for two years and participated in greer’s percussion ensemble.

Greer retires after 30 years of service

By Brett davis-miller Eye of the Hurricane “I always had the desire and dream to be retired as many years as I worked,” said former Frederick Douglass Academy Principal Berry Greer. With that in mind, after 30 years working in Detroit Public Schools Community District, Greer has decided to retire.

Greer, 53, did not originally intend to become a principal of a high school. At 32, the retired military Army captain returned to the United States in 1996 after spending time in Bosnia.

“I had a military background and it just seemed to fit,” he said. “I have to be honest, I did not have aspirations of becoming a principal.” Greer said he “got things squared away, went back to school, and got a master’s degree in administration,” when he returned to the U.S. Greer began his career with Detroit Public Schools as a band director at Martin Luther King, Jr. Senior High School.

Later, he became the dean of students at Redford High School before a promotion to assistant principal at Northwestern High School. Before

he became principal of FDA, he served as principal at Crosman Alternative High School and Detroit City High School.

After six years as principal, the staff and students at FDA, finds Greer’s retirement has been a transition.

Greer no longer greets students at the door daily, nor does he tell staff they’re “good to go” during classroom evaluations.

As there is no formal music program at FDA, when Greer the 2017-2018 school year began, Greer returned to his roots as a music instructor. He taught a percussion ensemble during the first semester. The ensemble gave student musicians an opportunity to express themselves through music in a classroom setting.

Nathan Tedford, English teacher and testing coordinator, said Greer is “the best principal I’ve ever had.” Tedford has been at FDA for five years.

“It’s heart breaking if you

eye oF tHe HUrricane

have a principal like him because you don’t want to give that up,” said Tedford. “It’s hard to measure another person to such high standards.”

FDA Sophomore Charles Boyce said Greer “was the first to make me feel comfortable” at Frederick Douglass. “I’ll miss his presence; he was everywhere to make sure everything was alright.”

Greer, who is a father-figure to many, staff and students alike, anticipates missing the relationships he built with the staff and students. “I love my students (and staff ) at Fred D,” Greer said.

The father of two men in their early 20s, Greer said he looks forward to spending more time with his biological children.

“Those of us in education spend more time with other people’s kids than we do our own,” he said.

FDA staff joined Greer to celebrate his retirement during one of his performances at Baker’s Keyboard Lounge on April 29.

Said Greer: “There’s younger people with lots of energy that can do the right thing and develop relationships with the young men, who can occupy this job.”

By Jalen Roberts Eye of the Hurricane The senior class at FDA recently read Detroit 1967: Origins, Impacts, Legacies.

Additionally, they visited the Detroit Historical Museum for its Detroit 67: Perspectives exhibit, viewed artifacts of the riot, and spoke with the producer of the documentary “Summer ‘67: Finding the Lost.”

“This story really hit close to home,” said Frederick Douglass Academy for Young Men

senior Larenze Turner.

On July 23, 1967, Detroit was the site of one of the most destructive riots in U.S. history.

To commemorate the 50th anniversary, Detroit has had a series of activities going on throughout the city, including an exhibit at the Detroit Historical Museum.

“To read (and view) everything that was going on in my own city to my grandparents and their family when they

See 1967 on page 16 »

SPOTLIGHT ON: jrotc’s xavier clemons By derron King and Joseph Riley Eye of the Hurricane Frederick Douglass Academy junior Xavier Clemons is not an exception to the rule at FDA. Clemons, 17, serves as executive officer of the Junior Reserves Officers Training Corps, JROTC program; he is second student in command clemons after Battalion Commander Deon Tiggs. Xavier is also an honor roll student, a position he has held since he began attending the school.

He is well respected by his teachers and peers.

“Xavier is the model student,” said English Language Art ELA

editor-in-chief: Jalen Roberts advisers: Katrena F. Rimmer and Corinne Lyons crain mentor: Victor Galvan

instructor, Katrena Rimmer.

In February, Clemons won first place in the American Legion Oratorical Contest in Rochester, Mich., which focused on the U.S. Constitution.

Clemons spent time over Thanksgiving preparing for his speech. Dan McCrary, First District Americanism Chairman, worked with Clemons to ensure his speech was well-written and he was ready to deliver it to the judges.

When Senior Army Instructor Major Ayannadjenaba MoralesKaley, heard Clemons won top prize, she was overjoyed, but not surprised. She laughed, saying, “Frederick Douglass has some of the most brilliant kids around. It is just showing everybody what I already knew.”

See CLEMoNS on page 16 »

Staff Writers: Brett Davis-Miller, David Dyer, Anthony Thomas, Dante Lowery, De’ontea Owens

16 DetroitDialogue.com May 16, 2018 st u d e n t l i f e

st u d e n t l i f e

Boy Scouts start program at Douglass

By Jaivin Payne Eye of the Hurricane The Boy Scouts of America has for years had a scout center office across the street from Frederick Douglass Academy for Young Men. But it was only last year that scouting came to the school.

The program began through the efforts of Colonel Shawn Kaley, U.S. Army (ret.), 55, father of sixth grade FDA student Keith Anthony Morales. Kaley grew up a Boy Scout, reaching the rank of Eagle Scout.

Douglass

Eye of the Hurricane

Freshman students Kyle Nuness, De’Aryus Williams-Aclise, David Oates, and Germar Hines Jr. eat lunch. District chef Kevin Frank has been working to create healthier menus.

District chef focuses on creating healthier menus

By Kamauri Washington Eye of the Hurricane At first glance, it looks like Kevin Frank’s job requirements might be diametrically opposed.

As district chef for the Nutrition Department of the Detroit Public Schools Community District, it’s Frank’s job to compile breakfast and lunch menus that are nutritious and taste good.

“I have the responsibility of making decisions on behalf of the department, for the students, and want to give them more than

Douglass just cheeseburgers, pizza and chicken nuggets,” says Frank.

“Those are unhealthier meals.”

Frank’s department, housed on the campus of Frederick Douglass High School since 2014, has a daily goal of ensuring students have meals that are simultaneously refreshing, delicious and healthy. Amongst the current choices are cereals, salads, a variety of fruit choices and sandwich-

es such as chicken and tuna.

“Students should practice eating more fruit instead of candy and chips,” Frank says. “Those types of foods can cause them to have serious health issues.”

The focus on healthier menus at Detroit Public Schools Community District, began after former first lady Michelle Obama launched her Let’s Move! Initiative, which focused on reducing childhood obesity. One of the results of that initiative was healthier school lunches.

The healthier menu, which at first was greeted with some skepticism, now meets with approval by many students.

“The food tastes good and seems to be healthy,” says student Brett Davis-Miller. Says sophomore Nolan Bryant about the breakfast menu: “I like the cereal and fruit.”

But Frank doesn’t want to stop there. He says he also wants to expose students to new flavors from Latin America and Asian countries.

Clemons

1967

from page 15

from page 15

After graduating high school in June of 2019, Clemons would like to study to become a civil engineer. Although undecided, he has plans on applying for the U.S. Military Academy, West Point.

Reserves Officers Training Corps, ROTC, is another way he plans on beginning a military career.

Said Clemons: “I would like to thank my mom for staying up with me those long nights, helping me with my speech and Major Morales-Kaley for pushing me the whole way through.”

Dan McCrary, Americanism Chairman for the 1st District American Legion Chairman and the American Legion Grosse Pointe Post 303 Commander said Clemons was sponsored by the 1st District and American Legion

were my age really makes me appreciate them more,” said Turner.

During English Language Arts class sessions, seniors learned the history of the ’67 riots — sometimes referred to as a rebellion — from the fugitive slave act, Jim Crow laws and segregation, to the bottle that was thrown in the area now known as the New Center area that was thought to ignite the riot.

Bruce Harper, director of the film “Summer 67: Finding the Lost,” hosted a seminar at FDA. Harper’s documentary highlights the lives of the 43 people who died during the riots.

Not only were students able to view the documentary but

In class, seniors learned about history of riots

He recently won 1st place in an Oratorical Contest

Eye of the Hurricane

Xavier Clemons serves as executive officer of the Hurricane’s Junior Reserves Officers Training Corps.

Grosse Pointe Post 303. He won the 3rd Zone Contest held on Jan. 27 in Rochester and is eligible to win at least $800 by participating in the State Contest. The 5 Zone winners participating in the State Contest are eligible to win $800 for third , fourth and fifth to

$1,000 for second and $1,200 for first place.

McCrary said Clemons participated in the state contest held at the Gerald R. Ford Library Auditorium in Grand Rapids on Feb. 17, tying for third and fourth place winning $800.

Shawn Kaley, who is also Treasurer of the FDA Parent-Teacher Association, said he promised when he became an Eagle Scout that he would return the favor to younger troops.

“We’ve focused on completing the requirements for the boys to attain their first rank,” said Kaley.

“Our final few meetings will see the boys taking on more and more responsibilities of running our meetings.”

Boy Scouts of America is a youth organization focused on character building, personal fitness, and responsibility.

“I enjoy and have fun with the activities, such as learning knot tying and safe pocket knife handling,” said troop member Delrese Ballard.

The troop meets after school at FDA and recesses during the summer.

They learn communication and citizenship skills, and those lessons have implications in the classroom as well. “It has helped me be more responsible for my actions and focus on my school work,” said troop member Tyshawn Mason.

Detroit residents, who were children during the time of the Riot, came to share their experiences.

“It’s very important for today’s youth to know their history,” said Harper. “People lost their lives during the riot, fighting for equality for all minorities.”

To round out the experience, Katrena Rimmer, senior ELA instructor, planned a field trip to the Detroit Historical Museum. The Museum’s exhibit, Detroit 67: Perspectives, contains artifacts from the riot.

“It wrapped up the book perfectly,” said senior student Jordan Williams. “It is always good to learn about the history of your city but when you are able to build connections and learn firsthand from someone who was actually around, it takes learning to a whole new level.”

May 16. 2018 DetroitDialogue.com 17

crUSaderS’ cHronicle A public forum for the students and community of Martin Luther King Jr. Senior High School | crusaderschronicle.com SpORTS

the Corner ballpark has on display the stadium’s former names. the Detroit tigers played at the site from 1896 to 1999, until moving to Comerica park.

the Corner ballpark is the new home stadium of the Detroit police Athletic league. the historic field was home to the Detroit tigers for more than a century.

crusADers AT

THE Corner

Baseball team plays on historic land By denaysia Johnson and Jamel mathis Crusaders’ Chronicle n March 24, the Crusaders’ baseball team got an opportunity to stand on land that is considered historic. They played West Bloomfield High School on Detroit Police Athletic League’s (PAL) new field, The Corner Ballpark, which is the former Tiger Stadium on the corner of Michigan and Trumbull.

This game was the grand opening of The Corner Ballpark.

“The Corner Ballpark is a historic site because it’s the land mark site of the old Tiger Stadium. Many baseball legends built their legendary career at the Tiger Stadium such as Al Kaline, and African-American ball players such as Willie Horton and Gates Brown, and the list goes on,” said Taylor.

In the 1920’s, Tiger Stadium was known as Navin Field. It was roped off and African-Americans could not go past the rope. They were only allowed on a hill close to I-75 in center field. In the late 90’s,

O AboVe: king’s baseball team got an opportunity to stand on the historic field that once belonged to the tigers. rigHt: Seats from the old tiger Stadium are on display with other memorabilia including, FAr rigHt, catchers’ helmets. pAl’s mascot, was on hand for the event.

crUSaderS’ cHronicle

editor: Madison Wood adviser: Veronica Hollis crain mentor: Jim Treece

African-Americans were able to sit in the bleachers when the stadium was called Briggs Stadium.

“It was a time where my mother, who is 93 years old, would tell me about when her and my dad used to go down to Navin Field when they were little and it was roped off and AfricanAmericans could only be on the hill in center field. Then it became Briggs Stadium and African Americans were only allowed to sit in the bleachers. Then later on they were able to sit wherever they wanted,” said Taylor.

King’s catcher and senior Deyante Fossett feels that the two high school teams that played at The Corner Ballpark for opening day made history. Fossett believes it was an honor to play on the same field as legends.

“It was a wonderful and honorable experience. I am truly grateful to be able to play on the historic corner of Michigan and Trumbull. The field was beautiful and big. I wish I was old enough to see how it actually looked when Tiger Stadium was there,” said Fossett.

Staff Writers: Katirra Alston, Damyah Bowers, Janae Fuller, Christina Gordon, Tajina Henderson, Denaysia Johnson, Jamel Mathis, Shantee Murry, Taymil Pritchett, Ke’Aire Smtih, Rebecca Smith, Jordan Tarver, Iyana Watts, Tez Wright

18 DetroitDialogue.com May 16, 2018 s p orts

King track star heads to Australia

By Iyana Watts Crusaders’ Chronicle Down Under Sports made the announcement and senior Ayre’Anna Young will be off to Queensland Australia this July to represent Michigan as a member of the 2018 Track and Field Team at the Down Under International Games. She will compete in the individual 100-meter dash and

team championship.

Young must raise $5,000 to cover costs. This program helps students from around the world to compete in their favorite sports.

“I have to raise $5,000, and it’s going good. I’ve made it to $4,000. So that will cover my passport, medical, food, trip, and hotel,” said Young.

For an athlete to get and stay at

the top of his or her game, hours of practice is inevitable. Practice is very beneficial when it comes to achieving the 100-meter dash Young or higher. Meter dashes are sprint races and they’re very popular.

“I have practice Monday through Friday from 4 to 5:15.

Everything is about drills.

So with her, she’s a sprinter.

She does more sprinter drills.

Maybe she’s running or doing the stairs,” said head girls’ track team coach Dwight Thomas.

College scouts can give fullride scholarships based on an athlete’s speed. So, achieving the

goal of a college scholarship isn’t impossible. Colleges have offered Young a scholarship: Duke, Notre Dame, and the University of Tennessee.

“I have to do more research to see who’s going to give me a full ride to their college,” said Young.

Young’s track and field events begins on July 8, and she returns to Michigan on July 17.

opinion

E n t e rta i n m e n t

Passing the torch: Learn to be comfortable doing things on your own

Crusaders’ Chronicle

English teacher Sherrhonda Denice has written three novels and has a passion to help teens get their work published.

Teacher pens 3 novels, offers advice to teens

By Jamel Mathis and Iyana Watts English teacher and published author Sherrhonda Denice has written three books: Pathways, Glue, and A Man’s Heart. All of her books are what she calls “Christian fiction.” Her love for reading plus a lack of fiction literature without salacious content is what led her to write.

“My first book Pathways took me several years to write because I put it down due to the sudden death of a friend,” said Denice. “Pathways is about a mother who essentially gets on crack and ends up losing her two daughters. The idea came to me after serving as a foster care social worker.”

Denice wants to tell a story through her craft and at the same time help readers in the process as they learn from the characters.

“We tend to relate better to life when there is a story attached to it,” said Denice. “For me, it’s about sharing and teaching something through a story but also entertaining.”

King Her most recent work, A Man’s Heart, takes readers on an emotional battle to live right while fighting temptations.

“Sometimes it takes me a while to write a scene because I’m a cry baby,” said Denice. “A Man’s Heart is about a young minister who is really sold out for the Lord. In walks this beautiful woman who takes him out of his square, and puts him on a path that he’s not used to. So he essentially has to make a choice between God and the woman he loves.”

There are several staff members who have read Denice’s work. English teacher Brunisha Brooks has read all her books and believe they all are great.

“I can’t say I have a favorite because the books are absolutely dynamic. All of the books are phenomenal. There were times where reading was very emotional because I could identify with the characters. It was kind

of a rollercoaster of emotions but it was great,” said Brooks.

For those students who want their work seen by others, Denice offers some advice.

“Just write and don’t worry about format. Just get something on paper because once you have something on paper, you’ll have something to edit,” said Denice. “There are so many good resources out like wattpad.com and people will actually comment on it. There have been a lot of authors and teens that have received book deals from posting their stories on Wattpad.”

Senior Delana Bailey wants to write a book that focuses on the difficult situations she has overcome.

“Within my story there’s an underlying message that you can get through all things,” said Bailey. “I want to inspire the next boy or girl my age whose life is in shambles. I want people to understand that you’re never what has happened to you. With the profits from my book, I want to open up my girls’ home.”

Being selected the 2018 class valedictorian is a tremendous honor. It is the first glass ceiling of many Alana that I hope to Burke break. Getting Crusaders’ to this point Chronicle was no easy feat but accomplished because of dedication and perseverance. To achieve this goal, students must work diligently from the moment they step into high school. The most important factor is to develop an exceptional support system that will uplift and support throughout high school epoch.

Senior year means crossing the threshold from childhood to young adult. There are ample responsibilities, more work, and harder decisions to make.

Parents aren’t going to be able to make decisions for us forever.

Senior year is that time when a student must figure out his or her priorities, find colleges, and put in time and effort to succeed.

An important part of this process is realizing one can’t do what everyone is doing nor be what

King everyone else is. Individuality is vital to setting yourself apart.

Being part of the crowd is fine for a while, but then you’ll learn that what’s important to you isn’t what’s important to others.

Learning to be comfortable doing things on your own is also critical because there will be a point in life when you might not be able to depend on anyone else.

Senior year is the perfect time to learn how to be independent personally and academically. The most imperative things to a successful high school career are to do the work, respect the teachers, study, study, study, and try not to get overwhelmed by the process. That’s when the support system is a must.

One may choose to make it through senior year skating on the floors of mediocrity, but once high school is over and the next step arises, he or she can’t just skate by because there are millions of people working 1 times as hard to be better than the next person. Competition is everywhere and students must be ready to fight for what they want.

st u d e n t l i f e

Motherless Mother’s Day

By Taymil Pritchett Crusaders’ Chronicle With Mother’s Day approaching, families will go out, buy gifts, and spend time with the woman that birthed them but all will not have this opportunity. Mother’s Day can be emotional for some individuals because their mother is no longer around.

“It’s been horrible for me losing my mom because she was my everything. I feel sad and depressed. It made me feel like

King I couldn’t do anything academically,” said junior Jalisa Walker.

“I will be sad for most of the (Mother’s) Day. I’ll probably just think of my mom and talk to the Lord.”

Junior Javonta Taylor-Mitchell lost his mother four years ago and remembers what Mother’s See Mother on page 19 »

May 16, 2018 DetroitDialogue.com 19 st u d e n t l i f e

E n t e rta i n m e n t

Crusaders’ Chronicle

Sada Baby, in the middle with his Crusaders T-shirt, performs for the students.

Crusaders’ Chronicle

Junior AJuane Campbell reads “Click, Clack, Quackity-Quack” while senior Jonae Mclendon (sitting on the left) waits to start the first graders’ activity.

NHS empowers kids with reading

By Damyah Bowers and KeAire Smith Crusaders’ Chronicle Members of King’s National Honor Society (NHS) walked three blocks to Bunche Preparatory Academy to read books and participate in activities with students. The NHS students practiced and prepared lessons in advance to make sure they were ready to keep the elementary students engaged.

“I was excited to see the NHS kids from MLK reading to the students at Bunche because I felt it was a positive experience for everyone. It allowed the older students the opportunity to go out into the community and be mentors,” said preschool and kindergarten teacher Julie Julien.

Being in an elementary school brought back childhood memories for some of the members of NHS. “When I read to the young children it gave me a chance to experience the classrooms that I used to be a part of. It was interesting to say the least,” said NHS president and junior Jody Dowdell-Gill.

King’s NHS advisor Joann Jenkins chose Bunche because the two schools are in close proximity, and this will start a bond between the two schools. NHS intends to make this a reoccurring activity.

“I’m really hoping this can be the beginning of a mentoring opportunity between our two schools,” said Jenkins.

These high schoolers want the youngsters to see them as role models and send the kids down the right path of reading books.

Mother from page 18

Day was like when she was living.

“We would usually go out to eat and celebrate the woman that we love,” he said. “We would have fun, go to the mall, and go home and watch movies.”

Senior Matthew Edwards has not seen his biological mother in about 10 years. Many students have guardians that take care of

Hip hop’s Sada Baby entertains during halftime King

Crusaders’ Chronicle

Senior Jean-Luke Alexandre reads “The Hatseller and the Monkeys: A West African Folktale,” one of his childhood favorites. As he reads, the words are translated into sign language for students with hearing loss.

King “I set a good example for the kids. It’s important to know how to read. I showed them how to be a leader,” said NHS member and junior AJuane Campbell.

NHS is built on for four pillars: scholar-

them; but they still love, remember, and acknowledge their biological mother.

“Every year I take my (adopted) mother out to eat, buy her a bunch of stuff, or go on a vacation,” said Edwards.

School social worker, Brittney Lawrence, offers some advice to get through difficult times: 1. Try to find something positive to do to not get stuck in sadness. An example could be to express your feelings in a creative

ship, service, leadership, and character.

Jenkins makes sure all members are involved in their community.

“It seemed overwhelming but what made me stay was the hard work of the students throughout the program. It made me realize someone should recognize the academically talented,” said Jenkins.

way such as journaling, painting, drawing or writing.

2. Express your thoughts and feelings to others (i.e. friends, family, therapist, social worker or counselor). It is good to plan ahead for days that may trigger you to feel upset, so let your support system know you may need them.

3. 1-800-273-8255 is free, confidential support for anyone in distress or crisis. You can call that number at any time to help work through your feelings.

Crusaders’ Chronicle

Junior Jalisa Walker lost her mother in November 2017.

By Madison Wood Crusaders’ Chronicle On May 4, at the Students vs.

Staff Basketball Game fundraiser for the senior class, students were hyped when hip hop artist and former Crusader, Sada Baby, surprised everyone. He came out during halftime and performed several of his songs.

“It was lit. It was awesome even though everybody swarmed him. He let people get close to him, touch him, hug him, and take pictures with him,” said senior Tia Smith. “Usually when celebrities come to the school, they’re like don’t touch me. Sada Baby was really in touch with his fan base.”

During the game, there were some students that secretly wanted the staff to win while others cheered for their peers.

“It was super fun even though I was low key rooting for the teachers,” said Smith.

Student players kept the staff on their toes. The score stayed close the entire game, but the staff won 52-48.

“We took control early on. We had some good three point shooters,” said math teacher Dwayne Harvey. “We had a lot of fun especially the half time show was fantastic. I know the kids liked the entertainment.”

With the school year coming to a close, this event will be memorable for not just seniors but all students that were in attendance.

“The game was exclusive. Seeing Sada Baby perform brought excitement out of me that I never knew,” said senior Tatayana Sanders. “I’m overall excited to call myself a King Crusader. We’re making great memories.”

20 DetroitDialogue.com May 16, 2018

mUStang voice Mumford High School | mumfordmustangvoice.com AcAdemicS

AcAdemicS

tiAnA lAw/mustAng Voice

Senior Michelle bradham presents her community impact project on teen suicide at Mumford High School on May 8.

Seniors defend their readiness to graduate

KAylA JAcKson/mustAng Voice

Senior DaMarcus Holton turns in his proof of his out of Class learning experience hours to counselor Shannon Anderson at Mumford High School on May 8. Holton got all 200 hours working at little Caesars. “it wasn’t that hard. plus, i was getting paid for it,” Holton said.

detroit reQUireS more oUt oF claSS learning DPSCD requirement is up to 10 times more than neighbors

By divine crawford Mustang Voice Should students have to have outside experience hours in order to graduate?

The idea is to give students a chance to be part of their own community and the opportunity

to gain skills they can use in the real world. Students have mixed feelings about the value.

Junior Karon Reason said, “I think it’s a positive. Getting extra knowledge outside of school can only make you smarter.”

Detroit Public Schools

requires 200 hours of Out of Class Learning Experience (OCLEX) that can be a combination of community service and paid work. The requirement equals one credit.

See oUTSIDE on page 21 »

By monayia Byrd Mustang Voice May is senior defense season at Mumford High School. Every hour for two weeks seniors will be scheduled to defend their readiness for college and career to a panel of teachers and community members.

Graduation depends on a passing score.

The senior defense was a requirement for every senior in the Education Achievement Authority (EAA) high schools starting in 2014.

Instructional specialist Jann Palmer explained that students pick an issue they’re interested in and research a solution for the community impact portion

or the defense. Students also have to present a portfolio and use a Power Point presentation to explain artifacts representing their high school years.

“I have seen students choose very interesting issues,” Palmer said.

Now that EAA schools are part of DPSCD, some students feel the requirement should be dropped.

Senior Lavien Fields said some people just are not good at public speaking and thinks it isn’t fair that failing at the senior defense can keep a student from prom and graduation.

“You can have a 4.0 and not See DEFEND on page 23 »

AcAdemicS

State may add personal finance class to curriculum

By Ataia Templeton Mustang Voice Michigan may soon require schools to teach financial literacy.

According to a story on Michiganradio.org, a bill is being considered by the state legislature would have schools offer a class on personal financial management for 11th and 12th grade students.

Mumford High School business management teacher Tara Gale is in the midst of a financial literacy unit right now. She said the topic has always been one segment of her curriculum.

“It is definitely taught during

mUStang voice

the semester, but kids will need more than a just a unit,” Gale said.

For the first time, Gale has partnered with Citizens Bank, in conjunction with Junior Achievement, to create a seven-week long program to prepare Mumford students to be financially literate.

The Thursday workshops are run

by Citizens Bank branch managers. The information-filled sessions are designed to teach students about checking accounts, budgeting, interest and other basic personal finance skills.

“I love the fact that professionals are able to come into the classroom and teach their field,”

Gale said.

Senior Nathaniel Woodson said students should be learning real-life lessons about money in school.

“I learned how budget and how to prioritize money, which I will need to know how to do in the real world,” Woodson said.

The sponsor of the bill, state Rep. Diana Farrington, R-Utica, told Michigan Radio, “In the U.S. we’ve just passed a trillion in credit card debt and I just think it’s really important for the young students – 11th and 12th grade – to be prepared for their lives going forward.”

adviser: Sara Hennes crain mentor: Michael D. Martinez

Staff Writers: Michelle Bradham, Adrian Coats, Divine Crawford, Davion Hayes, Angie Hughes, Remi League, Ataia Templeton

mustAng Voice

business management teacher tara gale and students pose with Citizens bank branch Manager greg Sands after a session on financial planning at Mumford on April 26.

May 16, 2018 DetroitDialogue.com 21

OUTSIDE

s p orts

Spirit of mumford

Mustang Voice

The Mumford Girls varsity basketball team poses in front of the Spirit of Detroit just after being honored with the Spirit of Detroit Award by Detroit City Council on April 24. The team won the city championship and had a 19-4 season record. From l-r: Coach Dwight Jones, Ta’SharRay Anderson, Brooklyn Taylor, Coach Karem Hogan, Adoreya Williams, Keara Wilson, Kirk Hogan, Za’Maria Polk, Sequoia Jackson, Tiana Law, Coreeahn Yharbrough, Tiera Earnest

Work

Students honored at appreciation breakfast from page 9

for minors, the transition into a new job that requires you to transform into a white collar worker can be slightly more difficult.

According to the experience of freshman Lizbeth Morales, who currently works for Ideal Group in Southwest Detroit, “one of my biggest fears when I first started working for Ideal is not knowing anyone in the building.”

It may at times be a little intimidating to go up to a person for the first time and introducing oneself.

Communicating with an adult and not knowing whether or not they trust him or her, a student with little to no experience, to work on an assignment can make a student feel anxious and self-conscious. As time progresses, however, that fear and anxiety dissipates and allows a student to gain more confidence in his or her skills and abilities.

“Honestly, one of the things I enjoy the most about my job is that, as time progresses, I am able to earn more responsibilities and I am challenged by the assignments given to me each week,” Morales said.

Even though at first Morales was a bit scared when she first became a member of Ideal, she soon realized that the individuals in her workplace are very welcoming and the environment she works in has a very nice community that, as Morales states, “feels like we are a big family.”

Morales mentioned that as

time passed in her work assignment, she faced many challenges because of her shyness, but throughout the course of the year, she has been able to learn how to be confident in her ability as a student worker and has become more comfortable in voicing her thoughts in her everyday life.

Sophomore Year Even though most Sophomores have been working in the corporate world for an entire year, it can still be a little nerve-wracking not knowing which company he or she will be working for and who will be his or her supervisor. The summer training only lasts one week for sophomores and it serves as a refresher to better prepare students for the year.

Sophomore Esmeralda Orozco, who has been working for Howard & Howard law firm in Royal Oak for two years said: “The people in my workplace are extremely nice and want me to excel. They keep teaching me new things and want me to keep learning more so that I understand all the areas of the job. I don’t do all the tasks yet because there is a lot to learn but they do give me projects so that my knowledge keeps expanding.”

That is the beauty of the CWSP: every experience is important and impacts students in a way that helps build up their character and abilities. Many students do not necessarily have a job that is specific to the careers they would like to pursue in the future, but the skills that each student is taught and the work experience he or she receives positively impacts every area of his or her life.

Orozco, like many other sopho-

“You can gain responsibility from outside activities, but Real-word experience is 200 hours is doing a little too important for students much,” McGee said.

Junior Leeteon Rice agrees. from page 20 “Yeah, you gain more experience when you do 200 But some students were hours instead of 20 hours, but surprised to learn the reit adds more stress when you quirement isn’t the same in have to worry about afterall districts. According to a school hours,” Rice said. story at freep.com, Oak Park As graduation approaches, and Farmington each require some seniors 40 hours are scramand Bloom“I think it’s a positive. bling to get field Hills Getting extra their 200 requires hours docuonly 20. But knowledge outside of mented. in those school can only make Mumford districts all you smarter.” counselor of the hours Shannon have to be Karon Reason, junior Anderson unpaid volsaid juniors unteer work. should try to Detroit finish the OCLEX requirement made the decision to allow before school starts in the fall. paid work several years ago to Employers and supervisors of allow students to use paid involunteer activities can sign ternships to meet the requirethe forms that show completed ment. hours. Students can go to Now they can use interncounselors to pick up copies ships, jobs, volunteer work, of the form they need to show or even helping out around completed hours. school.

“Senior year is extremely Junior Joya McGee said she won’t have any trouble getting stressful, and you don’t want any extra work that you could to 200 because she has a job have gotten done the year but she worries about some of before,” Anderson said. her classmates.

The Howler

Cristo Rey students and CWSP supervisors at the 2018 Corporate Work Study Appreciation Breakfast.

mores, continued working for the same company, which she believes is a huge advantage because it allows her to have a more holistic experience and a deeper understanding of the role her company plays for the community and the world around her.

Orozco’s favorite characteristic of her work location is that everyone is really nice and is willing to help her whenever she has a problem.

“I really appreciate how they care about my future and want my knowledge in studying, working, and what life later will look like to expand,” Orozco said.

The treatment of the workers and the overall environment in a work location plays a huge role on whether an experience has been positive or negative.

Junior Year At this point, most juniors have been in the CWSP for three years.

Some choose to stay with the same supervisor they had in their sophomore year, while others de-

cide that it may be a good idea to try working for a new manager or even a different company. Junior Esmeralda Hermosillo has been at DTE Energy for three years.

“I love the environment - I felt welcomed as soon as I walked through the door from the very first time - and my coworkers genuinely care about my future,” said Hermosillo.

Hermosillo’s responsibilities consist of scanning engineering data and other relevant files for document retention, uploading electronic files in Documentum databases for retention, and filing civil engineering documents.

Hermosillo had been interested in being an architect since the sixth grade. She recently started working with the civil engineers and she has learned that their role is similar to what her idea of architecture was.This experience has allowed her to be open to multiple careers.

That is another benefit CWS, according to Vanessa DeMenech,

a partner from GM who has been working with Detroit Cristo Rey for four years.

“Working in the corporate world with the CWSP gives you the opportunity to determine what type of work you like to do and what fields of study you are potentially interested in,” she said.

The CWSP is a very valuable and memorable experience for all of its participants. Throughout their experiences, students are able to develop skills that they never thought they could have, such as being able to better communicate with the people around them, being trusted to work on large projects, and becoming more confident in our talents and skill sets. The CWSP could not be a possibility without the continued support of teachers, partners, and the Cristo Rey network as a whole for giving students the opportunity to experience being in a corporate work environment without having a degree or particular experience.

22 DetroitDialogue.com May 16, 2018

rHS Stentor

A public forum for the students and community of Renaissance High School | rhsstentor.com e n T e R TA i n m e n T erneSt DiXon — drake, pretty Ricky: “i just like his music, he real chill. pretty ricky had good dance moves, and the way their songs make people feel. Being comfortable was hard, but once i found myself getting the rhythm, i was cool.” • ryAn SMitH — chris Brown, pretty Ricky: “it ain’t nothing he can’t do. he can draw, dance, hoop and i like his music. i think our pretty ricky performance was the best performance of the night, but i do believe as chris Brown, i could have smiled more.” • DeonDre’ JoneS-CArter — Trey Songz, pretty Ricky: “my issue was staying focused while i was around my friends, so we decided to practice more by ourselves. for trey songz, i could’ve interacted more and became more confident, those are things i could’ve worked on.” • ryAn tHoMAS — pretty Ricky: “i was placed in pretty ricky at the last minute. i decided to do it for fun and have a good time with my friends. i never had to remember dance moves or dances before, so that was a huge adjustment. i think the performance could of been better if we had more time.”

GRAMMY SHOWCASE RAISES $6K Story by elise love photo captions by chandra fleming and erika Spivey RHS Stentor our hundred people paid to watch the 2018 Grammys Showcase on April 20 in Renaissance High School’s auditorium, raising about $6,000.

The annual event is for seniors to showcase their talents and impersonate celebrities, while announcing mock election results, said senior Yassah Bah-Deh, who organized it with Ms. Ellis and Kendyl Claxton.

Over the course of a month preparations were made, starting with auditions. Of 40 auditions, only 22 made it to the final line-up.

One way this year’s Grammys stood out from the previous ones is that two seniors performed as Nicki Minaj. Judges enjoyed both auditions.

Performances were chosen based on “how prepared they were, how entertaining they were, and if they took criticism well,” said Bah-Deh. Presenters for the winners of the 2018 mock election were instructed to first bring a script they planned to memorize for the night that displayed personality.

F

AlbAny DAViS – Beyonce: “she is somebody i look up to and one of the best performers i have ever seen. some challenges i experienced was not being able to practice with all of my dancers at once – we had multiple groups going at once, so we had to work together.”

JAlen bryAnt — lil uzi Vert: “i chose to be lil uzi Vert because he’s one of my favorite artists, and many people say i resemble him. originally i didn’t want any background dancers, but then realized that i did need them. it worked out perfectly. to make my performance better, i would have added more songs to my mix. i feel as if one of my songs was too long, but it still worked out great.”

SiMone MCintoSH — nicki minaj: “she has really nice songs and is a fun artist. challenges included: getting the costumes, making sure everybody could practice, knowing the schedule for the dress rehearsals…once you get you the mix, in your head and your blood is pumping, you just start to remember and have fun.”

JADA WooD — Saweetie, icy Girl: “i found saweetie on instagram and i really vibed with her music.”

CORRECTION: in the feb. 28 article, “Ap computer science class makes Black history,” the rhs stentor should have said that renaissance high school would double the number of Black students statewide — not nationwide —taking the Ap computer science test.

rHS Stentor

adviser: Kyle Goodall crain mentor: Omari Gardner

Staff Writers: Chaise Anderson, Shaniya Amour, Dwight Bailey, Jr., Timothy Boyd, Jr., Halia Davis, Heaven Davis, Chandra Fleming, Amaya Gilbert, Duron Grant, Taylor Gribble, Lauren Hardiman, Imani Harris, Clarice Hollenquest, Quentin Lott, Elise Love, Destanie Madison, Mikahi McClaine, Theodore Mcgee, Jr., Renee Mitchell, Lamarea Moore, Jameelah Muhsin, Kayla Ricumstricht, Celeste Salazar, Erika Spivey, Jessica Taylor, Mariah Tucker, Jaila Williams

May 16, 2018 DetroitDialogue.com 23 opinion

Let this be your call to action This is my last article in the Detroit Dialogue, and I’ve decided that I will use it to encourage fellow writers.

As a journalImani ist, my passion Harris for writing stems RHS from my intent Stentor to inform and empower. I want the marginalized to know what’s going on around them so they can create informed opinions, and hopefully be inspired to DO something about that which they wish to see different.

Renaissance Let this be your call to action.

As students, we are so often told what cannot do. It is wrong for us to express ourselves in ways adults find “inappropriate.” It is wrong for us to questions, wrong for us to speak out when we have been treated unfairly, wrong for us to acknowledge systems at large, wrong for us to have feelings and opinions... ultimately, it seems wrong for us to move out of a “child’s place.”

Well, I call nonsense. I urge you, fellow writer, to continue writing stories that challenge the norm, to continue digging deeper, to keep finding stories that shed light on bigger picture issues. I implore you, fellow writer, to use your voice and the platforms you’ve been given to DO something about that which you’re writing. Seek change through your writing.

A great journalist isn’t the one with the loudest opinion, it isn’t the one with the most quotes — it isn’t even the one with the most data. A great journalist is the one who can present all of the facts, all sides of a story, and all the information necessary for others to form their own opinions about it, and want to act from that place of knowing. A great journalist tells stories with so much passion, it motivates readers, who then call someone, or text someone, or organize a protest, or write an angry post. A great journalist is one who inspires, one who doesn’t write for themselves, but writes for the readers. For their community. For the betterment of their state. For their nation. For the world.

To my fellow journalists of color: Stand firm in your truth.

Never back down. And know that when you’re the only one in the room, it is your responsibility to say what needs to be said. It’s a tough hat to wear, and it isn’t always fun (most times, it’s not), but it’s part of the engine of change.

I am honored to have been part of the RHS Stentor, and cannot wait to read what you write next.

st u d e n t l i f e

RHS honors late Phoenix

By Taylor Gribble RHS Stentor Joslyn Tene Jackson, known as JaJa among peers, died on May 27, 2016, after battling a rare bone cancer during her sophomore year. This year at graduation, the late Jackson will receive an honorary diploma.

Honorary diplomas have been given in the past to recognize students’ hard work and commitment.

On June 12, members from the graduating class of 2018 will give an honorary diploma to Ms. Jackson, Joslyn’s mother, as a commemoration.

Ms. Jackson hopes her daugh-

Renaissance ter will be remembered as loving, hard working and caring. Her friends describe Joslyn similarly.

“She always kept positive no matter the situation,” said her middle school best friend Arinn Hayes.

Hayes recalls when she visited Joslyn in the hospital, they took many pictures and silly videos.

“She continued laughing and smiling throughout the time we were there.”

Ms. Jackson wishes the class of 2018 the best: “pursue your dreams and go further than expected.”

RHS Stentor

Friends say Joslyn Jackson, who died in May 2016, liked to make others laugh.

Renaissance will award her an honorary diploma at graduation this year.

opinion

NBA salary cap space too limiting NBA fans who are passionate about competitiveness in the NBA have lost their enthusiasm, and it’s DuRon all because of Grant the current RHS salary cap Stentor space.

During the playoffs and regular season, NBA ratings have dropped because everyone basically already know who’s going to win each game.

People are able the call the

games because there are only about three good NBA teams, and they hold most of the NBA’s best talent to offer.

The biggest problem is the cap space because the cap space determines who can possibly play on the team. The NBA salary cap is the limit to the total amount of money that teams are allowed spend on players.

Like many professional sports leagues, the NBA has a salary cap to control costs.

Teams with little cap space can’t offer talented players a lucrative contract because the

Renaissance owner would have to pay out of pocket to exceed the cap limit.

Cap space determines who can possibly play on a team, because every player’s contract takes up space in the salary cap.

If an NBA team only has $4 million left in salary cap space, the owner will not be able to recruit an all-star, caliber player. This is because, when negotiating the contract, the all-star player will most likely request more money than the capped team can offer.

The current cap space also causes the NBA to be a less competitive sport.

For example, the Golden State Warriors only lost one game in the 2017 NBA playoff, and it is rumored that they purposely lost that game.

No one could compete with the Warriors because others couldn’t match talent with salaries.

The Warriors currently have four all-stars on their team, and could possibly win the next four championships.

It would be a more entertain sport if caps were raised.

opinion

End the stress of homework on breaks!

Whether it’s in winter or spring, breaks should mean a complete break from homework.

Amaya For most, it Gilbert means a break RHS from going to Stentor school, but not necessarily from the homework.

A break should be a time for students to rest and relax. Not to be stressed about getting a presentation or work packets done. This defeats the purpose of a break. When given more work over these breaks, it can actually take the enjoyment out

of learning.

Education isn’t always a number one priority on break.

Families often plan vacations or trips with their children, going somewhere to enjoy family time or just have fun. When you bring the schoolwork along, it can take away from the family time, relaxation and whatever else a person might do on break.

We all need a break sometimes.

The main concern teachers have about not assigning homework is the possibility that students might forget what they’ve been learning. This is understandable. However, encouraging students to read in their free time or review notes every few days, accomplishes the same thing. The learning

can take place without the burden of grade maintenance.

Furthermore, homework over breaks isn’t beneficial to all students. Some students learn better by observing the things around them. For example, a museum can be educational.

There are other ways students can learn in and out of school that don’t require homework.

With the development of technology and smartphones, children are always obtaining new information. Even watching the news for a few minutes teaches us something new.

Kids are already in school for seven-plus hours a day.

Over a break, the main priority should not be homework. On vacation, social and family life should take priority.

The extended amount of rest on breaks could even be beneficial. Several studies show that plentiful rest can actually increase productivity and improve performance. That way, children will be ready and prepared to learn when they come back to school. Without an actual break, the mind cannot rejuvenate.

Spending so much time stressed isn’t healthy. A vacation should be a rest from all the regular stress of school.

Teachers tell us to “enjoy break” and they could encourage that.

DEFEND

be able to walk? That’s wild,” Fields said.

But senior Donivan Price said, “It’s not challenging; it’s just that you have to put a lot of effort into it.”

Students have who don’t pass have an opportunity to try again.

Business management teacher Tara Gale said she likes that the fact that seniors have

to defend their work or projects from previous years.

“It helps prepare them for future presentations,” Gale said. “It builds communication and professional skills.

Experience helps students build skills from page 20

Renaissance

24 DetroitDialogue.com May 16, 2018

Hear tHe roar Southeastern High School | SeHeartheroar.com deTROiT

StUdentS create mUral For HeidelBerg project By malaya Reed Hear the Roar Earlier this year, Southeastern High School students got an opportunity to create a mural through participation in the Heidelberg Project, “a public art environment in the heart of an urban area, and also a Detroit-based community organization with a mission to improve the lives of people and neighborhoods through

art,” according to the project’s brochure.

Bettye Foster, Southeastern counselor, made this experience possible. She is also an artist and wanted the students to experience life and through art.

“I know that art as a creative process and is both healing and life enhancing,” Foster said. “I was involved with the Heidelberg project a few years

ago and I saw first hand how it affected the students. The introverts came alive.”

Working with Southeastern students from the project were Anya Dennis and Keisa Davis.

Their goal was to let students create a mural and get an overall sense of what art is and how it can be interpreted. The students experienced the world of See MURAL on page 25 »

heAr the roAr

Southeastern counselor and srtist bettye Foster helped students create a mural through the Heidelberg project art organization.

STudenT life

STudenT life

council helps students improve community

heAr the roAr

The Black History program included the Black lives matter movement.

Students perform play to celebrate Black History

By KrisTia maxwell-Gray Hear the Roar Just imagine fear when you step out onto the big stage.

After weeks of practice and then boom, you are walking on stage. A spotlight is shining on you, and a crowd is watching your every move. Then you stop

Hear tHe roar

walking and stand still. The audience hears silence until you say your first words.

This spring, that was the fear several Southeastern students had to overcome when they performed an educational play to celebrate Black History. It reflected the past and the preseditor-in-chief: Keyana McCraney adviser: Jacqueline Mitchell Robinson

ent of many African American historical legends.

Some of the legends in the play: Mansa Musa, Harriet Tubman, Booker T. Washington, Rosa Parks, Malcolm X, Shirley Chisholm, Tupac, and former President Barack Obama.

It all started as a thought in

Dennis Veal’s African American Studies; it slowly turned into a visual event. In our one-on-one interview he mentioned that it was important to have this play.

“It is important for students to learn about Black See PERFoRM on page 25 »

photo editors: Michael Bradley Hargrove III and Eric Pruitt contributors: Azia Isaac, Malaya Reed and KrisTia Maxwell-Gray

By Azia isaac Hear the Roar Detroit’s District 4 Youth Council is a program that three Southeastern High School students who participate in the Student Government Association were selected to help improve our district.

Juniors Jada Brewer and Laureen Reed, along with sophomore Christopher Blake and other students from District 4 high schools are involved in the youth council; the program allows students to visualize and create ways to improve their community.

“I chose to be a part of this youth council program because I feel like a lot of kids and teens are not involved nor aware of what’s going on in our city,” Reed said. “Also I feel that this may be a good opportunity for me to showcase my leadership skills”.

The Youth Council is hosted

by Detroit City Councilman André Spivey, who held the initial meeting at the Coleman A. Young municipal building. Additional meetings were held at various high schools, including Southeastern.

“I chose to be in the District 4 Youth Council because I wanted to be a leader in my community and have a voice for the youth in my district,” said Brewer. “Also so that I could be aware of who are the leaders that run the district that I live in.”

May 16, 2018 DetroitDialogue.com 25 E n t e rta i n m e n t

Who is BTS? Renaissance

Hear the Roar

Southeastern High School’s “Wakanda” Dancers performed in the Black History Program. From left: Serena Allen, Staci Scott, Romeir Terrell, Joi Morgan, Brea Marshal (front center) and Jada Brewer.

Perform

Students understood importance of roles from page 24

History and understand its importance,” Veal said. “Often, people say this generation does not understand their history or appreciate it as an African American, and my goal was to provide a stage to prove the critics wrong.”

All students that participated thought this was a great

Mural

Counselor helped make experience possible from page 24

art and learned how the world itself — buildings, landscapes and other visuals — is art.

Dennis and Davis took the participating students to a tour around Detroit to view numerous paintings and murals in the city. Dennis, Davis and other important members of the Heidelberg Project answered questions. Seeing the murals gave students an idea of what they could create. They also met an artist who shared where their inspiration comes from and how they express the ideas in art.

The students also saw Heidelberg Project and the creator of the project Tyree Guyton.

The field trip was a good experience for the students to see

performance even though they were nervous and it was a big production. However, Southeastern High School is a place that has a “family environment,” where everyone looks out for each other. Because of this support, we were able to shake off the fear.

Students in the play were cooperative, hard working and understood the seriousness of their roles.

Even still, Veal had his work cut out for him as it was very difficult to put the play tothe complexity and beauty of Detroit through art.

The students who created the mural titled “ROAD TO SUCCESS,” were Khalifa Stokes, Kareem Powell, Terry Edwards, Diamond Grey, Destiny Grey, Stephon Horton, Azia Isaac , Eric Pruitt, Artez Rodgers, KeAsia Mayers, Sharday Barnett, and Lydell Smith.

The mural is a depiction of the road to success for Southeastern High School students.

The mural includes quotes such as “how to choose your path,” “roadblocks,” and “opportunities.” These sayings represent positive and negative aspects in a student’s life; it’s up to students to choose whether they make it to success or not.

Students in the project worked collectively to construct the mural and paint the wall. The goal of the mural was to “empower students through

gether since we do not have an established Drama department or technical staff to work the microphone, lights and music.

Somehow a drama department emerged. Students D’janel Reed, Lauren Reed and Jakob Waton took leadership.

Also six staff members — William Leone (Spanish), Arthur Johnson (Biology), Jacqueline Robinson (ELA), Yolanda Taylor (Business), Bettye Foster (Counselor) and Dr. Whitney Woods (ELA) — stepped up and contributed their time and

resources to help Veal’s vision come true.

Veal says he is proud of what was accomplished.

“Just because we don’t have things, doesn’t mean anything because having each other is all we need,” Veal said. “Overall I feel that it was a great show that exceeded expectations considering that it was our first, full out, dress rehearsal. Every actor and actress did great because Southeastern has very talented students, and yes, there will be an encore.”

Hear the Roar

The Heidelberg Project student and staff participants. arts and social justice projects that cultivate potential and inspire active leadership,” according to the project’s brochure.

Foster agrees.

“For those students experiencing difficulties and painful

life events, and cannot express themselves, ART offers a safe supportive environment,” said Foster. “Art allows students to express themselves imaginatively, authentically and spontaneously. There is no judgement.”

By Renee Mitchell RHS Stentor RHS students are excited over the popularity of a Korean boy group currently climbing U.S charts: BTS. Its popularity is largely due to social media and a series of recent awards.

The group performed their title song, “DNA,” at the American Music Awards. They were the first Korean artists to be invited to perform there.

They also won history by winning “Top Social Artist” at the Billboard Music Awards in 2017. They won against Justin Bieber, who had previously been undefeated for five years. Other nominees included: Ariana Grande, Selena Gomez and Shawn Mendes.

While in America, they made appearances on talks shows such as “The Late Late Show with James Corden,” “Jimmy Kimmel Live,” and “The Ellen DeGeneres Show.” RM did most of the talking, avoiding the awkward questions, like their dating lives.

BTS could not get here without their huge fan base, who they affectionately call “Army.”

They won the iHeartRadio Music Award for “Best Fan Army” in March of this year. The majority of their fan base is located in Thailand, Vietnam, and Indonesia; however, they are adored across the world. “The AMA’s were the biggest gift we could have gotten from our fans,” Suga said at the awards show.

RHS “Army” junior Eryn Savage said of BTS, “I think their personalities and their music makes them so likable.”

“They are always positive and try so hard to make the ARMY happy and proud!”

Another RHS junior, Taylor Williams, became a fan before BTS became internationally renowned.

“Other than appearance, their music is addictive and, when translated, relatable.”

When reflecting on the future of BTS, a sophomore “Army” fan at RHS, who wished to remain anonymous, said she thinks the band will tour in more cities .

“They will continue to set records and make history.”

BTS last album, 2017’s “Love Yourself: Her,” sold 1.58 million physical copies around the globe, according to BigHit. The group has announced its Love Yourself world tour, appearing in place such as Chicago, Illinois; London, England; Los Angeles, California. RHS fans hope Detroit will be next.

26 DetroitDialogue.com May 16, 2018

WeSt Side timeS

A public forum for the students and community of West Side Academy | westsidetimes.com STudenT life

WSA seniors tour Howard university

By Gjvon Washington West Side Times Six WSA seniors journeyed to Howard University April 18 through April 22 on the Escape to the Capstone college tour.

Seniors Alex Carlisle, Antonio Davis, Aaron Johnson, Marselis Williams, Tiffany Beck and Da’Mya Morris were chosen out of a pool of possible students due to their strong academic background and good attendance.

The group experienced many of the day-to-day activities that college students would have, such as spending a morning in classes with their host students and attending presentations from student organizations. “I leaned that you’re really on your own and that in order to succeed, you have to be on your grind. I believe the trip was beneficial to me because it taught me that

college is not a place to mess around,” said Carlisle. “The best thing that I did was the journalism class. I was able to see how a college class is orchestrated.”

Davis, a student athlete at WSA, was awestruck with the sports facilities and the possibilities in that department. “I was able to play basketball with the Howard students on a real college court,” said Davis.

Aside from his love of sports, Davis is also serious about his academics. He will be graduating a year early this June. He thinks that all students should visit as many schools as they can before their senior year.

“Others should go on tours because it could open their eyes and show them that a school they never even thought about could be their dream school,” Davis said.

west siDe times

WSA students joined up with students from all over metro detroit to experience a weekend of life as college students at Howard university.

AcAdemicS

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WSA ON TOUR

cHam WinS SKillSUSa plUmBing conteSt

west siDe times

A group from West Side Academy takes stop along the side of a mountain for a photo during a europe tour.

Trip takes group to Greece, Italy during spring break

By Talisa causey West Side Times Spring break 2018 was a very exciting time for six WSA staff members and sophomore Emily Glover. After a year of fundraising and preparation, the group traveled to Greece and Italy for the trip of a lifetime.

Before this experience, the furthest Glover had traveled was to Arizona. Being the youngest child in her family, she was the only one left who had yet to experience being out of the country and she begged her family to send her.

The adventure started in Athens, Greece, with a tour of the Acropolis, the Oracle at Delphi and other significant historical sites. From there, the tour took the group through the mountains to

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the city of Kalambaka, where they visited centuries old monasteries on the tops of rock formations.

The tour then headed to Italy via a ferry ride across the Adriatic Sea. Italy’s main stops included the cities of Florence and Rome. While in Florence, the group was able to tour many of the most famous sites in the city, such as Michaelangelo’s David and the Duomo. In Rome, the group traveled to the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, the Pantheon, and many other amazing sites. The trip concluded with an excursion to Vatican City, where the group toured St. Peter’s Basilica.

“Seeing the Roman catacombs was definitely the most interesting part of the trip. It was so interesting to see the forms of where they editor-in-chief: A’chanae King adviser: Suzanne Olsen crain mentor: Krishnan Anantharaman

kept their dead. It reminded me of Egyptian coffins,” said Glover.

“It is a great opportunity to be able to travel and I appreciate that I was able to go. There’s a whole world out there. The more you stay in America, the more cramped it feels,” said Glover.

English teacher Ashley Monteleone coordinated the trip as the school’s tour leader. She has taken groups of students in the past and has seen the impact that world travel has on young people.

“I know international travel can be scary for some students, but I’ve seen firsthand how students lives have changed through these opportunities,” said Monteleone.

WSA will be traveling abroad again in the summer of 2019 to Dublin, London and Paris.

west siDe times

WSA and randolph Career and technical Center student Muhammad Cham won second place for the residential plumbing Contest at the 2018 SkillsuSA Michigan State leadership and Skills Conference.

Staff Writers: Da’Mya Morris, Eric Catlin, Talisa Causey, Veronica Cornelius, Tania Eaton

May 16. 2018 DetroitDialogue.com 27

tHe WeStern expreSS Western International High School | detroitwesternexpress.com STudenT life

naacp honors Western seniors

By Abran Barba The Western Express On Sunday May 5, Western seniors Alondra Alvarez and Darryl Ervin, accompanied

by Alondra’s mother Monica Alvarez and Western International teacher Jacob Thorington, attended the 63rd annual Freedom Fund Dinner hosted by the Detroit branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) held at Cobo Conference Center in Detroit.

The keynote speaker was

Sen. Cory Booker of New Jersey.

Alverez, was one of many students honored at the dinner for her leadership and commitment to ending gun violence.

On March14, Alverez was responsible for spearheading and organizing the Western International Walkout, where students from across the country simultaneously walked out of schools for 17 minutes in honor of the lives lost Florida.

Alverez plans to attend Michigan State University in the fall and plans to major in

communications.

When asked about her reaction to speaking at the NAACP dinner on May 5, Alverez said she was “so honored to be recognized and in the presence of so many motivating and powerful people, a great support system.

“Because organizing is so time consuming, I appreciated being rewarded for my hard work.”

The 2019 National Conference for the NAACP will be held in Detroit.

the western express

Western senior Alondra Alvarez was honored by the nAACp for her work to end gun violence.

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WESTERN WAlkS out

the western express

Western students, teachers and staff walked out of school on March 14 to protest gun violence and honor the victims of the parkland, Florida, shooting in February. Senior Alondra Alaverz was the main coordinator of the event.

Students take part in March 14 nationwide protest against shootings

By Jeanette Andrade and Karen Sanchez The Western Express At 10 a.m. on March 14, students across the nation, took a stand to raise awareness to gun violence by walking out of schools for exactly 17 minutes to commemorate the 17 lives that were lost in the Parkland, Florida, shooting in February.

Accompanied by many teachers and staff.

Western students rallied at Clark Park chanting and protesting against the total disregard of the

rising issue of mass murders in America.

Amongst the group of seniors that organized the protest, were Alondra Alvarez.

Alverez the main coordinator of the event, felt very passionate about solidarity and said: “Bullets have no race nor color and that is why I worked hard to make sure the speech was trilingual. The speech was interpreted in Spanish, English and Arabic. The solidarity showed we all were standing together against gun violence.”

Another protester, was junior Rejoyce

tHe WeStern expreSS

Douglas. Douglas proudly held up a sign that read, “GUN CONTROL, NOT PRAYERS,” “I support this because kids need to get behind this protest because we need gun control now,” Douglas said.

Western principal Angel Garcia, said: “I’m completely supportive of this cause; 100 percent supportive. I think it’s high time that people start listening to young people and their opinions, because a lot of stuff that grown folks who are in politics do, affect you all, you guys should have a voice.”

advisers: William Bowles and Dorian Evans

Ballpark is reminder of family By ingrid Ramirez The Western Express Journalism day at Tiger Stadium evoked fond memories of the fact that it’s not just a game. As cliché as it sounds, it’s more than a baseball game. It’s a hit, a run, a cheer and some groans. It’s old men trying to keep score, yelling at the umps when they make bad calls. It’s a group of 20-year-old girls posing in attempts to get the perfect selfie to show they’re “not like the other girls, they like baseball.” It’s parents bringing their kids to expose them to the same childhood they had. It’s the Ferris wheel and the merry go round.

It’s the smell of roasted almonds, hot dogs, pizza, frozen lemonade and pretzels.

When I think about baseball, I think of my sisters, my parents, my great uncles and my grandparents.

I think about family. I think of my sister’s softball games and my t-ball practices. I’d go to field trips with the team, meet the tigers, and leave the game only eager to show my mom my signed T-shirt.

Baseball is my dad yelling at the screen during the World Series game. It’s my sister surprising me with tickets on the third baseline right. It’s me joining the softball team to feel at home at school.

Some go to Comerica Park for the game, but I go to remember my childhood. Ticket stubs still lay inside a box on my dresser. When times would get rough at home, I’d put on my headphones and See BALLPARk on page 28 »

Staff Writers: Abran Barba, Daezja Giles, Egypt Jackson, Christopher Lundy

28 DetroitDialogue.com May 16, 2018 st u d e n t l i f e

exhibit features work

by Western students

Western International The Western Express

On May 5 at the Mexicantown Latino Cultural Center in southwest Detroit last Saturday, May 5, the “Shield of Peace” exhibition opened. It included art, poetry, music and multimedia presentations.

Games

Physics teacher Lenk leads students in club from page 5

teachers give without getting in trouble,” Quinteros said.

One of the physics teachers, Nicholas Lenk, or better known as Dr. Lenk to the students runs the Video Game Club.

“I think it’s awesome, it gives gamers a place to meet each other and hang out and build friendships with others not just in their grade level, but throughout the whole school,” Lenk said.

When told that some students find the Video Game Club a safe haven and asked why he would think students would say that, he said: “Because, the culture that we have built here is one of support of each other. It’s a place where kids can feel like they’re accepted even when they’re being weird.

I’ve actually never heard anyone call it a safe haven, but I’m not surprised students have told you that because the kids that are in, they know that the people that they are around they can trust and they can open up. They don’t have to maybe put on the façade that they’ve been wearing all day. Once they get here, they can be themselves.”

Might other schools adopt the Video Game Club’s rules?

“I think they should,” Lenk said. “The job of school is to teach kids. A huge part of teaching students is student engagement and so if you can give students a place after school where they really feel that they’re apart of, they start associating themselves with the school and they start associating

Food walk out

Students use speeches to seek change from page 5

inspired to see change.”

“We’re stuck with uncontrollable guns and gun violence and school shooting.

“Before many of the walkouts were happening, many students didn’t see any type of change happening to protect them at school. In fact, after the Parkland shooting many

ballpark

Trip to Comerica Park recalls family memories from page 27

block the arguments. The screen would switch from college softball to the Detroit Tigers best plays to best MLB hidden ball tricks. It’s comfort.

Every summer we go to games, it’s not summer if we don’t go.

When we’d go, we’d sit all the way at the top and my mom

students felt decreased school safety.

“When I heard about the walkout, I was like ‘OK, maybe we’re getting somewhere’, and then I heard that Cass was doing it. After the walkout I think people were empowered and wanted to make a change.

“I really liked Brooke Solomon speech the most…her being in the same grade as me.

“I enjoyed seeing her being a leader and making a change in her community, it was amazing.” would squeeze my hand as we’d get further up. She’d tense up and squeeze my hand even harder, refusing to open her eyes. My sister, Jocelyn, would distractedly reassure everything’s okay and then clap at the good play. My sister Itzel would be one of those 20-something girls posing.

And as for me, I’d sit. I’d breathe in the air. I’d look around and I’d take it in. I’d watch the jumbo screen show the birthday wishes and names. I’d watch the games they’d play for the crowd

dual from page 5

an associate degree.”

Business teacher Dr. James said: “Dual Enrollment helps get you into college, apply for jobs and you’ll have a degree when you graduate high school. Joining this program gives you confidence and it also gets you prepared for what work you’ll be getting once you get into college.

As a teacher of this program I assign projects, presentations, class assignments, group work and, research papers.” and always bet on the red car. I’d watch the sky go down and I’d zone out. It’s not that I didn’t like the game, I loved it. But there’s times when I’d sit and I’d breathe in and find myself no longer my ripe old age of 16, I’d return to that 8 year old girl who was missing teeth, still grinning at the fact that my T-shirt was signed by the Tigers.

As the air goes into my lungs, everything changes and all I see is my family. When I exhale, I know I’m home.

There is no one-size-fitsall solution to problem from page 6

there are 41,170,732 Americans using the food stamp (SNAP) program. About 70 percent of SNAP participants are in families with children and nearly a third is in households with seniors or people with disabilities. Therefore, food stamps must be very beneficial to Americans.

But it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution.

Just on a regular everyday basis you notice that not everyone has the same diet. Some people

themselves with more peers. If you wanna get these kids interested in school you need to give them a place in school in which they care about.

“I’ve created the website videogameclubs.org where I go through everything that I know about how to engage students and how to set things up like this successfully.

However, the bottom line is you have to have a teacher that really cares about the club and will put a lot of effort into it because if it’s just a teacher that who will just grade papers all the whole time while it’s going on typically don’t see that much success as the ones where the teacher is up, they’re playing games with the kids, they’re setting up tournaments or maybe events where the kids can really dive into the club.

“The No. 1 factor is the person running it. So, that would be my first advice to any teacher who’s trying to run a Video Game Club.

You have to have your efforts focused on it. Your name is tied to it so make it awesome. The second factor is to let kids decide what games they want to play. They know exactly what they want to play so let them bring in what they want. I mean yeah, if we were to just bring in one game like 2K (a basketball game) and base the club just off of that it would be successful, but also it would have a limited scope because it wouldn’t bring in as many kids at once as a general Video Game Club would. It’s usually best just to leave the choice of game up to the students.”

If you have any other questions on what exactly to do for your own Video Game Club, visit Lenk’s website videogameclubs.org. are vegetarians or vegan. Some people are even lactose intolerant and don’t eat dairy products, so to give everyone the same food would be unfair because everyone doesn’t eat the same things and the food would just go to waste.

People would prefer being able to go grocery shopping for their own food versus specific food items getting sent to you every month.

Cass Tech senior Chanel Williams, who is lactose intolerant, said: “Not everyone eats the same thing, some people aren’t able to eat certain things, and it would be better if people had the freedom to purchase their own groceries, that they know they’re going to eat.”

The Western Express

Staff members of The Western Express attended at Journalism Day at Comerica Park on April 19.