February 2017

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Dialogue//Feb. 22, 2017

DETROIT

AUTO SHOW

CELEBRATION FOR MLK PAGE 15 » King held its annual celebration Jan. 16.

The theme was “Lifting the Veil of Ignorance."

STUDENTS ATTEND DETROIT AUTO SHOW

PAGE 22 » Dialogue reporters got early look at newest autos.

THE STUDENT VOICE OF DETROIT’S HIGH SCHOOLS

STUDENT LIFE

DISCIPLINE THROUGH DANCE PAGE 14 » King's dance program allows students to express themselves

DETROIT

DETROIT

Remembering Mike Ilitch

PAGE 5 » Students honor local businessman and his impact on Detroit STUDENT LIFE

HOOP HOUSE

PAGE 11 » Douglas program teaches about agriculture A PUBLICATION OF

Black History Month PAGE 3 » Students reflect through poetry, art and stories

CRAIN MICHIGAN STATE UNIVERSITY DETROIT HIGH SCHOOL JOURNALISM

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2 DetroitDialogue.com Feb. 22, 2017

Dialogue Vol. II, No. 3 | Feb 22, 2017

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.

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. and other partners throughout Southeast Michigan.

OUR TEAM Joy Visconti, joyvis@msu.edu Director, Crain MSU Detroit High School Journalism

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Jeremy W. Steele, steelej @msu.edu Scholastic journalism outreach coordinator, MSU School of Journalism Joe Grimm, jgrimm@msu.edu Program adviser & editor in residence, MSU School of Journalism

DESIGN Haley Kluge, Presentation Editor The Edmund C. Arnold Chapter of the Society for News Design at Michigan State University

SUPPORTED BY

CRUSADERS' CHRONICLE

Dating abuse can affect males and females. Clinical social worker and teacher Sherrhonda Denice said abuse starts with "pushing, name calling, controlling behavior, taking your cell phone" or asking to check a phone.

DON’T LET DATING ABUSE BEAT YOU Text loveis to 22522 for help

By Carrimia Owens Crusaders' Chronicle On average, nearly 20 people per minute are physically abused by an intimate partner in the U.S. During one year, this equates to more than 10 million women and men, according to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV).

“It was verbal, mental and physical abuse for over four years,” said 35-year-old victim Barb*, the parent of a junior at King High. “I left when the attacks went to my son.”

Physical, verbal, and mental abuse doesn’t only happen to adult females and males. It happens to teens, too, often as dating abuse.

Dating abuse can be an aggressive confrontation between two teens that are in a relationship.

“I had teen cases involving domestic violence where I had both young men and women that

Dating abuse is psychological as well. The abuser may use degrading comments and shift his or her partner’s mind into thinking that there is no one better.

“He used to say ‘you think you’re going to do better than me,’” said 16-year-old victim senior Sally*.

Jealousy can play a significant part in dating abuse. The aggressor doesn’t want the victim to get attention from individuals of the opposite sex.

“It [the abuse] started when boys started looking at me and trying to talk to me more often,” said Sally*.

There are several early signs that teens can notice in a relationship that may lead to dating abuse.

“Pushing, name calling, controlling behavior, taking your cell phone, asking to check your phone are signs that you should leave the relationship,” said Denice. “I have

King were in violent relationships,” said clinical social worker and teacher Sherrhonda Denice.

Some individuals are unaware that male teenagers can be the victim in these relationships. Many do not seek help because males are too embarrassed to tell others that their girlfriend is abusing them.

For six months junior Devin* was physically abused by his girlfriend.

Devin* decided enough was enough when he and his girlfriend got into an argument and she punched him in the face. He pushed her to the ground and walked away.

“My coach saw the altercation and I had no choice but to tell my parents,” said Devin*. “She constantly hit me because she knew I wouldn’t hit her back.”

had men and women come in with bruises and they thought it was a normal part of the relationship.”

If you or someone you know needs help, call Love is Respect at 1(866) 331-9474 or you can textloveis to 22522. For more information, go to loveisrespect.org. *Names in this article have been changed to protect the privacy of the victims.

“Pushing, name calling, controlling behavior, taking your cell phone, asking to check your phone are signs that you should leave the relationship.”

Sherrhonda Denice, teacher and clinical social worker

CRAIN MSU DETROIT HIGH SCHOOL JOURNALISM PARTICIPATING SCHOOLS Benjamin Carson School for Science & Medicine Principal Charles Todd Cass Technical High School Principal Lisa Phillips Communication & Media Arts High School Principal Donya Odom

Detroit Cristo Rey High School Principal Susan Rowe Douglass Academy Principal Berry Greer East English Village Preparatory Academy Principal Charlene Mallory

Martin Luther King Jr. Senior High School Principal Deborah Jenkins

West Side Academy Principal Andrea Ford-Ayler

Renaissance High School Principal Anita Williams University Preparatory Academy High School Principal Camille Hibbler

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 and Dan Jones.

Feb. 22, 2017 DetroitDialogue.com 3

BLACK HISTORY BL ACK HISTORY MONTH

RHS STENTOR: Black History through Poetry and Art Written and compiled by: MaKaylah Butler and Taylor Gribble Black History is American History! Black History Month began as a weeklong celebration in 1926, honoring Americans of African decent. Our ancestors have contributed much to the world. BHM highlights various figures, such as Frederick Douglass, Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., Harriet Tubman, Malcolm X, Rosa Parks, Angela Davis, Althea Gibson, Jackie

Robinson, Oprah, Obama, Protestors, and countless others who have contributed to our continued struggle.

Hip-hop and jazz culture, new language, music and food, potato chips, chocolate chip cookies, the traffic light, open heart surgery, and light bulbs are a few of the many contributions Black Americans have made to the world. Black History should be taught in all schools like a core subject, because Black History is American history. The

shortest month of the year isn’t enough.

Our schools tend to celebrate Black History in brief biographical talks or short plays of people and times past.

However, through art and literature we are able to share how Black History is alive in us today, and how we are a part of it. We are using our art to draw paths on the roads unpaved for Black people, to record our ongoing struggle, and to provide an encounter with Black History.

BL ACK HISTORY MONTH

Beauty standards in the Black community

Skin-tone based discrimination is a growing problem

By Tori Armstrong RHS Stentor Eurocentric standards of beauty advance colorism within the Black community. This skin tone based discrimination is a growing problem among our people. The media is, for the most part, responsible for women’s belief that their appearances make them undesirable.

In the days of U.S. slavery, Black people were separated by skin tone.

Slave masters created an illusion, even among the African slaves, that the lighter your skin, the more “tolerable” you are. To date, this has created a separation inside of the black community.

D. Channsin Berry and Bill Duke’s 2011 documentary film Dark Girls brings attention to the issue that colorism causes in the Black community. “We as a people were so disenfranchised that we adopted some of that… a lot of that,” said one woman of the past’s influence on today. The film also displays what it is like to be a darker skinned Black girl and to be thought of as ugly.

Eurocentric images, such as straight hair, light skin, and slender facial features, are praised on Women of Color. Halle Berry and Zoe Saldana are two examples of celebrities who are celebrated as “beautiful” in the media. They both have slender facial features and light complexions, due to their mixed races. TV shows and popular entertainment magazines advertise small noses, thin lips, and angelic eyes – “a white girl dipped in chocolate,” aka a Black woman with Eurocentric features.

Viola Davis has dark skin, a larger

nose, and thick lips. She also wears her hair natural. New York Times television critic, Alessandra Sandra, referred to Davis as being “less classically beautiful than (Kerry Washington).” Sandra said that Davis doesn’t look like a typical star of a network drama. Washington is another star of a hit network show, but unlike Davis, Washington has lighter skin and slender facial features. Is that what people consider classically beautiful?

Images of people such as Beyoncé, Rihanna, Lupita Nyong’o, Tyra Banks, and many others have been photoshopped to make it appear as if they were lighter then they actually are. In 2014, Lupita Nyong’o was announced to be in the February issue of Vanity Fair. When the picture released, it was clear that the star’s skin looked lightened. Many were quick to say that Nyong’o looked beautiful, but they noticed the change. Even in a professional work place, Women of Color are expected to have their hair straightened, instead of in its natural state. This is a primetime examples of Eurocentric ideals being pushed onto Black females, to make them feel less acceptable or undesirable.

Even though this misrepresentation is ever-present in media today, many African American women are becoming affirmed. More women are wearing their hair naturally and are also embracing their characteristics.

Brands like “My Melanin is Popping,” “Love My Melanin,” or “Black Girls Rock” are showing Women of Color that they are beautiful. Our natural beauty has become cultural capital among our people. A new standard of beauty is being cultivated, rather reclaimed. Being naturally beautiful may even validate everyone as beautiful. Beauty is no longer defined by the eyes of those in power.

BL ACK HISTORY MONTH

EBONICS: Broken English or a language of its own?

By Jasmine Jordan RHS Stentor “Don’t write how you speak,” “Don’t use double negatives,” “Speak proper English,” are all phrases that I heard a lot growing up. Eventually, as many other African American children inevitably do, I learned how to speak in academic environments, saving my African American Vernacular English, or “Ebonics,” for home and among friends.

Merriam-Webster defines language as “the words, their pronunciation, and the methods of combining them understood by a community.”

I have broken this down into four parts: words, pronunciations, rules, and people. Using this as the criteria that make up language, I considered

whether AAVE should be recognized as its own.

seen as “uneducated” for using abbreviated words and pronunciations.

However, these pronunciations are distinct to AAVE.

1. Every language should have words that are specific to them.

While AAVE encompasses English words, their meanings are different than in English dictionaries. If someone speaking Ebonics says, “I’m about to bounce,” they do not mean that they will literally jump up and down repeatedly. Similarly, “I’m going to the crib” does not mean climbing into a bed made for young children. These meanings are specific to African American Vernacular English. AAVE fulfills the “words” criterion for being a distinct language.

2. Every language has pronunciations specific to that language.

AAVE has pronunciations that are significantly different than

3. Each language has some type of grammatical rules.

TORI ARMSTRONG/RHS STENTOR

“Standard American English” pronunciations. The letters “th” may be pronounced “de,” the difference between “they” and “dey.” Words ending in “or” or “re” may be shortened, e.g. store, door, floor become sto’, do’, flo’.

Similarly, “ing” may also be shortened to just “in.” (walkin’, talkin’).

Words like “child” are pronounced “chile.” African Americans are often

People may be most opposed to the concept of Ebonics as real language, because they believe that it doesn’t have rules or patterns.

This is simply untrue. African American Vernacular English has several rules. One of them has to do with the verb “be.” The verb “be” can be used to represent what is currently happening as well as what has happened in the past, and what is expected to happen in the future.

For example, “She be cleaning,” is the Standard English equivalent of “she is always cleaning.” Another example of grammatical structure is Ebonics’ use of double negatives.

In the Standard English language, two negatives should not be used in the same sentence. However, in AAVE, if you are making a negative statement, every possible negation should be used. For example, “I ain’t tell nobody about nothin’,” is the correct form in AAVE. 4. Every language is linked to a community, a people, a culture, or a history.

According to the 2010 census, there are over 35 million African Americans. This exceeds the amount of people who speak recognized languages like Swedish (9 million people) or Greek (13 million). Although not all African Americans speak Ebonics, there are enough people for whom AAVE is the native tongue.

Ebonics could be considered its own language.

4 DetroitDialogue.com Feb. 22, 2017

THE DIAGNOSTIC Benjamin Carson High School of Science and Medicine | carsondiagnostic.com OPINION

Demand diversity

STUDENT LIFE

Entertainment industry needs to be more diverse, inclusive to all

By Shontell Butts The Diagnostic America is known for being a diverse country, so why isn’t the entertainment industry more diverse? In most successful movies and TV shows, the main characters are usually white.

Growing up as a minority and watching television, I rarely saw people who looked like me. I always asked myself why my race and gender were almost never seen as the heroine; they are usually seen as the opposite. Many children watch television from a young age like I did, and the roles they see their people playing can affect how they think they should behave.

Even when there are diverse characters in the media, they are shown as stereotypes. There are many misconceptions of certain groups based on television stereotypes. Black people are presented as violent, low-class gang members. Latino people are shown as maids, drug dealers, and illegal immigrants. Women are objectified as sex objects.

Many actors of color are underrated. In 2015, Viola Davis was the first black woman to win an Emmy for the Best Actress in a Drama according to the Guardian.com. Her speech caused controversy when she brought up that the only thing separating women of color from others is opportunity. Davis said at the time, “You cannot win an Emmy for roles that are simply not there.”

There should be more positive representations of diversity in mainstream American media. It’s the 21st century. When will this stop?

THE DIAGNOSTIC

Our diverse community should be represented in the media we consume.

THE DIAGNOSTIC

Students at Benjamin Carson sent these cards with greetings for Eid and Christmas along with general holiday messages.

A classroom in Spain is decorated with messages from Benjamin Carson students.

Spanish students get taste of Spain with exchange

By Katlyn Day, Lamont Clingman and Sharron Reed-Davis The Diagnostic Benjamin Carson High School Spanish students sent video chats and cards across the world as a class project. Starting Nov. 7, 2016, Benjamin Carson’s Spanish teacher Isabel Saravia started her Spanish students on a cultural project. The cultural exchange was between Saravia’s Spanish class and her previous school in Seville, Spain.

Seville is a city in the South of Spain.

Saravia’s former students in Spain attenda school called Irlandesas-Loreto.

“I want my students to see the usefulness of learning a language,” said Saravia of the international project.

In the project, students in Spanish class at Benjamin Carson wrote notes in introducing themselves and talking about general information. This included their name, age, nationality, their school, their passions and why they are studying Spanish.

After students introduced themselves in writing, they recorded themselves saying this information in Spanish. During this whole process, students in Seville, Spain were also doing the same thing as Spanish class students at Ben Carson.

“Students should see Spanish as a mean of communication,” Saravia said. “This gives them the opportunity to learn from a real situation.”

Benjamin Carson Spanish students also made winter celebration cards translated into Spanish and sent them to the students in Spain. Following this, students exchanged pictures. Benjamin Carson Spanish students sent pictures to the students in Spain and the students from Irlandesas- Loreto did the same back to Benjamin Carson.

THE DIAGNOSTIC

THE DIAGNOSTIC

Students at Irlandesas-Loreto in Seville, Spain, communicated with Ben Carson students through a letter exchange.

“Actually getting to see the face of the person we were communicating with made this project more appealing,” said junior Benjamin Carson student Kaleasha Clingman.

The students really enjoyed this project.

“I feel like this is a good project because it teaches students how to communicate through “pen-pals” but in a different language,” said Christopher Bryant, Jr., a senior at Benjamin Carson.

“It’s an opportunity to learn authentic Spanish,” said ninth grader Yoma Begum.

The students really enjoyed the opportunity to communicate with other students from a different country.

“I feel like this is a good project because it introduces you to different students in Spain and you get to know how they interact in Spain,” Nagaysha Owens said.

Editor-in-chief: Sharron ReedDavis and Alexis Williams Adviser: Grace Walter Photo Editor: Lamont Clingman Crain Mentor: Mike Martinez

Saravia wants to continue the project with her future Spanish classes.

“I would definitely continue this project every year in hopes of improving it,” she said.

“I really hope that Ms. Saravia continues to do this project with her Spanish classes," said senior Deontay Cobb. "It is a great experience and introduces students to something different."

WHERE IN THE

WORLD?

Seville, Spain is home tonearly700,000residents in the south-west corner of Spain.

It's known for their local flamenco dancing and Alcazar castle!

SPAIN Seville

Staff: Meer Alrafee, Shontell Butts, Krysten Cannon, Lamont Clingman, Wynter Danley, Asia Davis, Katlyn Day, Harrold Hardaway, Anthony Hurst, Richkiyah Jackson, Ronniseia Jones, Alaysha Lewis, Shania Mennis, Kelly Meriweather, Fahim Miah, Stephon Parham, Damon Phillips, Roosevelt Porter, Mod Rahman, Saaheim Rivera, Keundra Sanders, Alexander Sims, Andre Smith, Dwight Thomas, Camryn Walker, Justin Watson, David Whiteside, Christopher Williams and Nadiea Williams

Feb. 22, 2017 DetroitDialogue.com 5

CT VISIONARY

TECHNICALLY SPEAKING A public forum for the community of Cass Technical High School | ctvisionary.com DETROIT

Ilitch leaves legacy

DETROIT

MICROSOFT CEO VISITS

Cass Tech students were able to connect with businessman through summer internship program

By Morgan Threatt CT Visionary On Feb. 10 the Ilitch Holdings company announced that Little Caesars founder and Detroit sports owner Mike Ilitch passed away. Ilitch was 87 years old and had been ill for many years, but there was a shock wave sent through the city as the announcement of his passing surfaced.

“Mr. Ilitch had been sick for awhile, since before I met him, but his death was still a shock and is very saddening to my peers and I,” said Alex Lopez, a Cass Tech senior who has interned for Ilitch Holdings.

Ilitch was a self-made business man as he never attended college but was more than determined to make a name of himself sprouting from See Ilitch on page 7 »

JASMINE JAMES

Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella visited Cass Tech High School on Feb. 9. Microsoft is moving its offices in Southfield to downtown Detroit.

"He was a great speaker, and seemed to be very interested in helping Cass Tech," Cass Tech senior Daniel Square said. "Teachers were showing off the creative ways that technology is being used throughout the departments."

SPORTS

Football sends 16 players to college

CT VISIONARY

Earlier this month, 16 Technicians signed to Power 5, Division I and Division II schools during National Signing Day held at The Horatio Williams Foundation downtown Detroit.

By Kaelyn Collins CT Visionary On Feb. 1, thousands of high school athletes across the country signed their letters of intent.

Cass Tech’s football team had the largest number of signees in Michigan. This year’s Cass Tech team went undefeated and won a Division 1 state title under coach Thomas Wilcher.

Around noon, 13 members of the football team signed to play at schools from the Division II-level to the Power Five schools. The three technicians that signed and enrolled early; Donovan Peoples

Jones (Michigan) and Jaylen Kelly-Powell (Michigan) and Rodney Hall (Northern Illinois) brought the total from Cass Tech to 16.

Linebacker DeSean Boyd committed to Eastern Michigan University. He initially wanted to attend King High School, but decided to go to Cass because his older sisters were already enrolled.

“High school football is family orientated,” Boyd said. “Coach Wilcher was like a father figure. I will miss playing with my bros.”

Offensive and Defensive tackle Jordan Reid, signed to Michigan

Editor In Chief: Kaelyn Collins Social Media Editor: Joi Arnold Community Editor: MacKenzie Galloway Sports Editor: Kaelyn Collins Photography Editor: Jasmine James Photographers: Daniel Square & Rodney Coleman Sports Social Media Department: Amyre Brandom and Rodney Coleman Researchers: Karen Cyars Adviser: Erika Jones Crain Mentor: Don Loepp

State University. Reid transferred to CT during the second semester of his freshman year.

“As a transfer from Chippewa Valley, I was determined to go to Cass from 16 mile to downtown until I got my license junior year,” he said. “I rode the bus every morning to get here. It paid off because I had 26 offers from all over the country. I played in the Offensive – Defense game in Atlanta in December. I just know that the time coach Wilcher gives to the team and his dedication to See Signing Day on page 9 »

Staff: Kennedy Adams, Chance Carson, Jada Flowers, Eymon Hegler, Johnathan Jackson, Clarissa Kitching, Jalen Newton, Hunter Phelps, Torrance Smith-Wilson, Morgan Threatt, Miracle Stokes, Nia Williams, Arlaya Worthen

6 DetroitDialogue.com Feb. 22, 2017

THE COMMUNICATOR

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

CMA cheerleaders show spirit, skills at competition

By Ayanna Lipscomb and Dalaya Dawley The Communicator On Feb. 5, Communication & Media Arts High School's cheerleading team won the Spirit Shine Celebration Cheer Competition in their division of OPINION

‘’non-stunting’’ for the second time in a row.

They went up against cheer and dance teams from elementary school to high school at Brandon High School in Ortonville.

Nerves were on end as they cheered their way to victory.

“We trained for weeks.” said junior Alexus Senior.

The cheerleaders woke up at 5:30 a.m. to arrive at the bus departure location. On their drive to Ortonville, the cheer team stayed positive and motivating to get rid of any doubt by singing

songs and telling jokes. When they arrived and seen all the teams they would face they were surprised.

“A lot of thought went into every dance move and cheer.” said coach Stacy.

Many teams big and small showed up to compete. CMA

DETROIT

DETROIT

CMA cleans up for MLK

President's

PRESS

Has Trump limited the freedom of the press?

By Mason Simpson The Communicator The media delivers the news to its consumers, aiming to supply them with information that will inform citizens about what happens in the world around them.

There has been speculation as to if the newly inaugurated president Donald J. Trump is trying to disrupt that process of discovering and providing the public with the news. Many members of the press community were in disbelief when he allegedly attempted to discredit what are known to most of the public as credible news sources.

“Trump is redundant,” said junior Amil Reed. “Whatever news he’s trying to ban is probably true.”

CMA students have expressed their feelings about the president’s alleged media censorship.

“I think that media is important to us,” said senior Davariz Broaden. “Trying to get companies to stop publishing the truth isn’t right.”

Several U.S. government agencies set up rogue Twitter accounts that cover information about the censored topics and some intelligence officials have even spoken out against Trump.

Various media outlets, such as CNN, have seemed to lash back by continuing to report news that points out discrepancies in his presidency. Trump has fired back at them, claiming the company puts out news that is false.

MSNBC states that Americans are in favor of the press, a Gallup poll they posted shows that only 36 precent of Americans currently think that the media is being too hard on Trump.

cheerleaders had to do one dance and cheer.

With classmates in the stands cheering them on, they were invisible for a second year in a row. Now, it’s time to prepare for another cheer competition in April.

COLORISM Teenagers view on their skin color

By Shannon Fleming The Communicator There are so many people that don’t understand the meaning of colorism and how it may have affected someones view on themselves as an individual. Many of the students at Communication & Media Arts high either did not know or were not too clear on the true meaning of colorism. “ Colorism? Never heard of it,” said senior Alan James.

Colorism is the discrimination against a person of a darker complexion. It isn’t necessarily just in the black community, but it also happens within other races as well, for example with Indians and Dominicans. Blacks are usually categorized by color; light skins, brown skins, and dark skin.

There are stereotypes that have been made within the black community about the typical personality of light and dark skinned

THE COMMUNICATOR

people; light skins are usually more self absorbed, cocky, and are looked at as “better looking,” dark skins are looked at as more aggressive, angry, rude, less attractive.

We all joke around with our friends, but sometimes we don’t stop to think about how the person who has been targeted with the joke may take it. I believe almost, if not, everyone has had a time where they’ve made a joke about someone’s skin color.

“Yea I have made jokes. I’ve never really stopped to think about it though. You know how people make jokes but they never really stop to think about how it would make people feel,” said senior Elizabeth White.

“I didn’t really care that much, it never really crossed my mind,” said Jaai Brodie. “Yeah I make jokes, that’s only because they said something about me, so I retaliated back.”

It is clear that colorism is a huge problem around the world, especially with black teens. Social media has become a place where people, teens especially, go to express themselves freely, but they fail to realize that some things that are put on the internet are there to brain wash you into believing certain things are acceptable.

Everyone has had some type of insecurity about the way that they look at some point in their lives, especially in grade school.

“Middle schoolers don’t know how to differentiate between them hurting someone or it being a joke,” senior Dawsyn Collister said.

It’s clear that as the older you get the less concerned you are with the things others have to say about you.

“Of course I’m comfortable in my skin, I’ve been in it for 17 years,” White said. “When you deal with it for so long, of course you gotta get comfortable with it.”

Editors: Taylor Ephriam, Tarious Porter, Michael Underwood Corresponding Editors: Amanda Duren, Karmen Hardaway Photographers: Tatyanna Brown, Deandre Finch, Xavier Hollis, Reginald Street Adviser: Robbyn Williams Crain Mentor: Ursula Zerilli

By Amanda Duren The Communicator On Martin Luther King Jr Day, Communications and Media Arts High school staff, students, and other volunteers came together to fix up the communities around the school to create a better and safe environment for not only the residents in the area but for many CMA students who deal with rough conditions on a daily basis.

“Helping out during the community project made me feel like a better person because I gave back to the community that I was raised in while helping future resiTHE COMMUNICATOR dents of the community as well,” sophomore Dylan Daniels said.

Leadership, communication, and strong morals were demonstrated by the students who participated in the MLK community project. It made the individuals feel good for creating a positive change in the communities they help.

Senior Byron Foxworth said, “Students who volunteered to help out gave the school a better image and I gained a new understanding and reasoning for helping.”

The community project improved the environment but some may also say the relationship between people because diverse individuals were able to come together and create a positive change in Detroit communities.

This project allowed for cultural differences and social standards to become expunged. Unification was achieved no matter what the age, gender, or race may have been.

Staff Writers: Nya Cox, Shannon Flemming, Jaletha Lucas, Logan Stevenson, Lion Mitchell, Ayanna Lipscomb, Kenyetta, Micah Simpson, La’Shawn Wright-Smith, Logan Stevenson, Sarah Wright

Feb. 22, 2017 DetroitDialogue.com 7

ILITCH

Little Caesars, Detroit Sports Owner, dies at 87 FROM PAGE 5

his humble beginnings, a goal which was definitely achieved through his later years.

Ilitch is not only the founder of Little Caesars, but he also is a household name around the city of Detroit as he owns the

Detroit Tigers, Detroit Red Wings, Olympia Entertainment, and is also responsible for the renovation of the Fox Theatre across from Comerica Park.

He has also started the rebirth process of a section of the downtown/midtown area of the city which would be referred to as “The District Detroit.” Across from Cass Technical High School on Woodward between Mack and E

Fisher Freeway there has been the start of construction of a sports arena that will be the home of the Red Wings and Detroit Pistons.

Ilitch has not only focused on the rebirth of the motor city but being a Detroit Public School alumni he has dedicated himself to aiding the youth of Detroit by offering summer internships to junior and senior students from Cass Tech.

The Ilitch Holdings company introduced this summer internship program to Cass Tech in the spring of 2015. Students were able to Intern for Little Caesars, the Red Wings, the Tigers and Olympia Entertainment, where learning various workplace skills while involving themselves in anything from working in communication offices to ushering during Fox Theatre events and

sporting events.

“I am so glad that I was able to work under the Ilitch family during the summer,” said Cass Tech senior and Olympia Entertainment Intern Imora Perez. “It was amazing getting to understand where Ilitch began and how his legacy continues to live on. He has made Detroit a more vibrant city, The District Detroit is only just beginning.”

DETROIT

RHS STENTOR

LEFT: DPS families attend press conference after then nominee Betsy DeVos’ hearing. RIGHT: Cornerstone High School senior Dannah Wilson gives impassioned speech after DeVos hearing, eventually picked up by major news outlets.

DETROIT FAMILIES ATTEND BETSY DEVOS HEARING

By Imani Harris RHS Stentor Before Betsy DeVos’ official confirmation earlier this month, 120 concerned students and parents from Chicago and Detroit drove to Washington D.C. to attend the billionaire Secretary of Education’s January hearing.

After a ten-hour drive, the group arrived at the end of a 40-person line inside the Capitol building.

“I had no idea why those men were there – they looked very poor and confused themselves,” said Cornerstone senior Dannah Wilson.

Wilson and others stood seven hours after arriving only to learn that the men who had been in line were reserving spots for $35 per hour.

At 4:30 p.m., 30 before DeVos’ hearing, white men and women in suits took places of the black men reserving spots.

“Seeing those men switch out

Renaissance was… the ultimate betrayal,” said Chandler Park Academy senior Virgil Mason.

Mason wasn’t upset at the spotholders working for quick cash, but he was upset at the men and women who bought what he had hoped would be his place in line.

Only one of the 120 who had traveled from the Midwest to the capitol was allowed into the hearing.

Dannah and her mother, Dawn Wilson, met one of the men who had paid a spot-holder to stand over eight hours for him.

The Wilson children have together attended 22 schools throughout Detroit, due to the state of the school district. School closings, principal turnover, and a general poor quality of education are part of Dannah’s story.

“You could tell he felt bad,” says

young Wilson. “He realized what DeVos had done to my city.”

After hearing Dannah’s story, the man who paid for a spot gave his to Dannah.

“Words can’t explain how emotional I was. I cried all the way until Betsy DeVos was about to enter,” said the Cornerstone senior.

It’s unclear whether the attendees who had paid for spots were attending in support of DeVos or to protest.

Inside the hearing, Dannah was “ready to look past all of the news stories” to hear what the then nominee had to say. But Dannah was unimpressed.

In response to whether guns should be allowed in schools, DeVos said of a Wyoming elementary school, “I would imagine that there is probably a gun in the schools to protect from potential grizzlies.”

The then nominee had little to say on the educational debate around growth and proficiency

(that is, whether students’ success should be measured on their own personal growth or their grade-level performance).

“I look forward, if confirmed, to working with you to talk about how we address the needs of all parents and all students,” was DeVo’s catchphrase for many questions.

The hearing led Dannah to believe that DeVos is an “inexperienced billionaire who just signs checks” to lobbyists.

In summer 2016, DeVos spent $1.5 million paying Republicans to vote no on Senate Bills 710 and 711, which would have allowed Detroit community members and parents oversight of charter schools.

Arlyssa Heard, a Detroit charter school parent who traveled to the hearing, believes “charters have become functionally dysfunctional.

They have the appearance of effectiveness, simply because they’re still running.”

Virgil Mason, Chandler Park Academy Senior, believes that DeVos has derailed public education in Detroit.

“Betsy DeVos pays a lot of people to make a lot of decisions that we [students and parents] don’t agree with,” said Mason.

DeVos backed bills that now allow uncertified teachers into classrooms, and the annual closing of Detroit’s bottom lowest performing schools. (Schools in similar situations outside of Detroit have options for revitalizing and saving their schools.)

Molly Sweeney, another Detroiter who made the trip, believes DeVos’ educational record “has created mass dislocation of Detroit students.”

Betsy DeVos has a bachelor’s degree in Political Science and Business Administration. She has no teaching or school administration experience.

8 DetroitDialogue.com Feb. 22, 2017

THE HOWLER Detroit Cristo Rey High School | cristoreyhowler.com DETROIT

School of the community

By Camilla Cantu The Howler Flyers flooded the hallways of Detroit Cristo Rey last month with a simple but inviting phrase: “Come, let’s celebrate mass together!”

The flyers invited all Detroit Cristo Rey faculty and students to a mass at St. Anne, a local church.

The idea came from Luke Miller, a faculty member at Detroit Cristo Rey who runs Campus Ministry, which coordinates community service and Catholic spirituality.

“I wanted an opportunity for us to come together as a school community and celebrate,” Miller, head of Campus Ministry said.

Miller is starting a monthly Detroit Cristo Rey family mass in

SPORTS

NEW GYM

which Cristo Rey members journey to local churches in Southwest Detroit and celebrate mass with the church’s parishioners.

“We are a school of the community,” said Miller. “It’s our place to go to the different churches in our community and make sure we celebrate with them, our community.”

The ultimate goal of the masses is to create community ties and relationships between Detroit Cristo Rey and the local neighborhood and to celebrate mass as a true family.

“I think that’s what we are called to do as Catholics and as a Catholic institution,” said Miller. “I think that’s our role in the community.”

On Jan. 29, the first Cristo

THE HOWLER

Detroit Cristo Rey unities with area churches by celebrating mass together.

Rey family mass was held at St. Anne, one of the oldest standing churches in the country. Cristo Rey students, families, teachers and staff celebrated the mass with St. Anne’s regular parishioners, and gathered after mass for coffee and donuts.

“I thought it was lovely, and it was a very inspiring because we had members of the Cristo Rey family show up at every level,” said Joellyn Valgoi, Cristo Rey’s assistant principal. “It was very special.”

Most of the Cristo Rey group that attended mass felt a sense of community and valued learning about what was happening in the neighborhood.

Cynde Garza, mother of a Cristo Rey senior, said: “It makes us

stronger as a whole knowing what our neighbors are up to and what the church is offering in services.”

Valgoi agreed. “I think that community is the basis from which we grow and thrive,” she said. “So I think having community strength beginning with our families, then our schools, then our neighborhood is the way that we become strong, and the way that we learn our culture, our faith, and how to work

100% STUDENT LIFE

Cristo Rey Wolves receive new den

COLLEGE ACCEPTANCE

By Juanita Zuniga The Howler The night was young and the game was heated.

It was overtime and the Wolves were facing the Mountaineers from Everest Collegiate.

The new and remodeled gym at Cristo Rey housed students, teachers, and staff that filled the bleachers, as they bit their nails and wiped away sweat as the time decreased second by second.

Then, the clock hit thirty seconds. It went from Daniel Worthy, to Samuel Stewart, then to Zion Stone, and then to Worthy again.

Finally, the buzzer went off and the scoreboard read 64-62.

The wolves won.

Students jumped from their seats with pride as they shouted “Go Wolves” and howled to their victory.

Nothing could beat or compare to this feeling. An amazing team, a great game, and to top it all off, a new and improved gym for Detroit Cristo Rey students to make more memories, just like this one.

By Jennifer GonzalezHernandez The Howler Imagine having to manage both high school classes and college courses and staying on top of your extracurricular activities. Detroit Cristo Rey students have done that, and it’s paid off. For the sixth consecutive year they’ve all been accepted to college.

Detroit Cristo Rey seniors manage dual-enrollment classes at Marygrove in the afternoon while dealing with a whole morning of their regular classes. But previous senior classes went through this as well. What makes class of 2017 different is that this year’s senior class have gone above and beyond in applying to college.

“This class will probably have our most impressive list of colleges that [the seniors] were accepted to,” said Cristo Rey president Mike Khoury.

Many seniors have applied to prestigious colleges all over the country. Others have found their perfect college in their home state.

Richard Zarate, a senior and a member of the Cristo Rey robotics team, was accepted into his firstchoice college: Michigan Tech, where he was recognized out of 1,000 applicants to join their leading scholars program. “Michigan Tech has been my dream school since freshman year. I just fell in love with the com-

See Gym on page 13 »

as one in the community. “ The family masses will continue until the end of the school year.

They allow Cristo Rey to embrace the surrounding community while also creating a sense of family among students, parents, and parishioners alike. Cristo Rey hopes to hold the next mass on March 5 at St. Gabriel Church.

“So please,” Miller said, “come and join us.”

THE HOWLER

Editor-in-chief: Juanita Zuniga Adviser: Stephanie Morrow

munity and the atmosphere of the campus,” Zarate said.

Ruben Lugo, another senior, applied to his first choice: University of Michigan in Ann Arbor and was ecstatic when he received a full tuition scholarship to attend. He said: “U of M has been my first choice ever since I knew what college was. I’ve always thought it was an exceptional institution, and everything I did throughout my high school career was to get there.”

Both Lugo and Zarate said Cristo Rey has helped them achieve their

Crain Mentor: Hannah Lutz

college goals. Zarate said that Cristo Rey has “helped [keep him] on track with not only college acceptances, but with scholarships as well.”

College advisors have assisted him with, “specific opportunities that [have helped] make college more affordable,” he said.

Cristo Rey’s curriculum has helped many students prepare for college, Lugo said. “My college readiness class and dual-enrollment classes at Marygrove [have] immersed me into the college life and made me more confident about my transition

THE HOWLER

For the sixth year in a row, all of Cristo Rey seniors have been accepted to college.

[into college],” Lugo said.

Two more seniors, in addition to Lugo, have been offered full-ride scholarships to colleges. This year, Detroit Cristo Rey will have three seniors attending the University of Michigan. Last year, none of the 2016 graduates attended Michigan.

Zarate’s advice for next year’s seniors: “If you don’t receive the letter you were hoping for, either from a university or college, it’s not the end.

Use [that] as motivation to do better and to find alternative routes to get where you want to be.”

Staff Writers: Nehe-Miah Scarborough, Sierra Dawson, Gabriela Gonzales, Camilla Cantu, Angelina McCuller, Jennifer Gonzalez-Hernandez, Angeles Cuevas

Feb. 22, 2017 DetroitDialogue.com 9 OPINION

In-school psychologists needed to prevent teen suicide

By Wynter Danley The Diagnostic A few years ago, due to death threats and extreme bullying, one of my good friends considered taking her own life multiple times. Thanks to the help of my school’s on-site psychologist, she found ways to resolve her problems. The psychologist also made sure disciplinary action

came to the bullies.

I believe that placing a licensed counselor or psychologist in all middle and high schools could help stop youth suicide in our country.

Even though schools around the nation have placed a psychologist in school, there can often be a stigma regarding them. Hence, there should also be counselor,

Benjamin Carson since they are less likely to be seen as negative by students.

With a counselor or psychologist in every school, no longer will our youth feel like they have no one to talk to about their problems. They can come up with solutions,

instead of feeling hopeless enough to take their own lives.

Under the guidance of a trained professional, teens and preteens can thrive.

According to GoodTherapy. org, an online therapy encyclopedia written by experts, “Psychologists in schools can implement early intervention programs to help students

DANCING TO DALLAS DETROIT

overcome their problems.”

They also help educate parents about mental health concerns and evaluate students.

One of the biggest reasons people under 18 commit suicide is because they feel they have no one to turn to. With the help of a psychologist, that negative outlook might be changed to a positive one.

DETROIT

Big Sean continues to give back Big Sean, Mogul Prep remain involved at Cass Tech

By Mackenzie Galloway CT Visionary Following the creation of the “Studio of Infinite Possibilities” at Cass Tech -- a studio sponsored

by Big Sean and adidas -- the Sean Anderson Foundation and its counterpart Mogul Prep have been heavily involved with Cass Tech and its students.

Cass Tech

CT VISIONARY

In January, Cass Tech Dance Workshop students travelled to the International Association of Black in Dance in Dallas. Each year the Cass Tech Dance Workshop, under the direction of dance instructor Lisa Reynolds, is given the opportunity to travel to dance conventions in different cities around the U.S.

SIGNING DAY

Players complete recruiting process during National Signing Day ceremony FROM PAGE 5

the team is the reason most of us are successful in this game and prepared to compete on the college level.”

Reid was a kicker when he transferred but his position changed as he grew in stature .

“I switched positions because I got bigger and coach Rosy and coach Sassy [offensive lineman coaches] thought it would be better,” said Reid.

Army All-American and Penn State commit Donovan Johnson

played seven positions just this past season. Johnson chose Penn State because it is closer to home; a six-hour drive.

“It was between Penn State and Virginia Tech,” said Johnson.

In January, Johnson attended the U.S. Army AllAmerican game in San Antonio, Texas along with PeoplesJones. The two were a part of the winning team, the East.

“I played every other series.

It was a cool experience with a lot of practices,” said Johnson.

Guard and Center Darico Ellis didn’t start playing football until his junior year, after English teacher Erika Jones encouraged him.

Wilcher told Ellis, “It’s about time.”

Ellis received two offers and will play for Central University in Ohio on a full scholarship.

Tackle Kelvin Ateman has been playing varsity since his sophomore year and Wilcher saw Ateman would play better at tackle, so he moved his position.

“It worked out for the better,” said Ateman. “Wilcher told me some realistic things about being successful in this game and my recruiting ranks increased as a result of it.”

The Class of 2017 was one of the largest classes of signees for Wilcher.

“That was a good number but I won’t be satisfied until I place all of my boys,” Wilcher said. “They all work hard and all deserve to play in college.”

There are 20 schools around the country that are involved in the program. So far, Cass Tech is the only school in Michigan to take part in the foundation’s endeavors.

On Feb. 10, Big Sean’s mother Myra Anderson and his foundation director Sean Wilson visited with the photojournalism and newspaper students at Cass Tech to further discuss the program, its vision for the future and about how the students can continue to build on their careers in journalism, photography, and other goals that they have.

CT VISIONARY

Varsity football head coach Thomas Wilcher signs to the University of Michigan for early enrollees Donovan Peoples-Jones and Jalen Kelly-Powell during National Signing Day held at the Horatio Williams Foundation in downtown Detroit.

10 DetroitDialogue.com Feb. 22, 2017

EYE OF THE HURRICANE Douglass Academy for Young Men | douglasseye.com

STUDENT LIFE

STUDENTS EARN

INTERNSHIPS

Students work with the Geographic Information System (GIS) program to qualify for summer work

By Omarion Smith Eye of the Hurricane Twice a month at Frederick Douglass Academy, students from over 35 Detroit Public Schools Community District gather as part of Geographic Information System (GIS) program.

The GIS program consists of students working with professionals to learn more about computers and GIS maps in hopes of preparing them for a summer job.

According to the Grace Project, which runs the program, students who finish eight required courses will be qualify for a six-week GIS internship with a City of Detroit department.

I participated in the program on Feb. 4, and there were three classes taking place. The first class we worked on, we had to

type about different topics and then change the color by adding code. My second class, we had to take a look at maps. Then my last class we all logged onto the computer to work on GIS map I created my account, which allowed to sign into the ArcGIS website, which we used to acquire the GIS maps. The first map we looked at was San Diego, California. The second map was of San Antonio, Texas.

The course is held Saturdays, twice a month, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Douglass media center.

EYE OF THE HURRICANE

LEFT: Students in the GIS program examined maps, including this one of San Diego, California.

TOP: Eastern Michigan graduate student Meiling Zhou helps a Detroit high school student in the GIS program.

STUDENT LIFE

DREAM KINGS HONOR TEACHERS WITH BREAKFAST

EYE OF THE HURRICANE

Students and staff of Douglass gather for a teacher appreciation breakfast, which was sponsored by Douglass’ Dream Kings.

EYE OF THE HURRICANE

Adviser: Wendell T. Woods Yearbook: Germaine Clinkscales

ACADEMICS

“We Matter 2” supports middle school students

By Staff Report Eye of the Hurricane The “We Matter 2” mentoring program at Frederick Douglass Academy for Young Men was started during the 2015-2016 school year by Dean of Students Saleem Shaheed. It targets the middle school population.

When Shaheed started the program, he named it We Matter 2 to give middle school population a sense of belonging.

According to Shaheed, there are many programs at Frederick Douglass, but most of them were targeted toward the high school population.

“The We Matter 2 mentoring program at Frederick Douglas Academy for Young men changed my life,” said seventh-grader Travis Crook. “Because of this program, I went from earning C’s and D’s to earning A’s and B’s. It is because of We Matter 2 I have a new desire in becoming a lawyer.”

The goals of this academic afterschool enrichment and mentoring program are to stimulate the cognitive abilities of Douglas middle school students and to provide them with the tools they need to make better decisions.

“This program has made my life better because I was headed in the wrong direction,” said sixth-grader Ryan Butler. “This program helped me to manage my anger issues at home and at school. I have learned better ways to talk through my problems and listen as my peers and I are in group discussions. Now, when I feel the need to unleash my anger, I am able to do it in more positive way.”

The program meets weekly from 3:30-4:45 p.m. The program enhances self-esteem, develops positive behavior, and teaches leadership skills.

If anyone would like to know more about the program, please contact Shaheed at 313-596-3555.

Staff Writers: Jae’lon Randle, Matthew Caffey, Kamarion Smith

Feb. 22, 2017 DetroitDialogue.com 11 STUDENT LIFE

HOOP

HOUSE

Douglassagricultureprogramteachesstudents about growing, cooking fresh food

By Kyle Davis Eye of the Hurricane The Frederick Douglass Academy for Young Men has offers a unique school program: An agriculture program that students learn how to grow fruits, vegetables and spices and then cook meals with the ingredients they grew.

Douglass There are several gardens and now a hoop house (indoor greenhouse) on school grounds.

In addition to gardens at the school, the students in the program complete all sorts of small projects.

Their next project: constructing personal greenhouses.

The greenhouse will allow

students in the program the opportunity to grow fresh fruits, vegetables and spices at their own homes, as well as providing the opportunity for the students to spread the knowledge of what they have learned within their communities.

The project was created to relate agricultural teachings to daily life, while incorporating STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) lessons.

Every aspect of the project, from drawing blueprints to calculating prices is managed by the students. Oversight and guidance is provided by program director Marquita Reese.

“She pushed us very hard, but she has our best interests at heart, and we all love working with her,” said Kyle Davis, a student in the program.

EYE OF THE HURRICANE

The Doulgass Academy for Young Men has a hoop house, or greenhouse, on school grounds.

Students in the school's agriculture program grow fruits, vegetables and spices in outdoor gardens and the hoop house.

12 DetroitDialogue.com Feb. 22, 2017

VOICE OF THE VILLE East English Village Preparatory Academy | voiceoftheville.com STUDENT LIFE

EEVPA hosts first blood drive

By Precious Gist Voice of the Ville East English Village Preparatory Academy hosted his first blood drive Jan. 10. It was sponsored by the American Red Cross. Twentyfour students donated blood.

To ensure the safety of blood donation for both donors and recipients, all donations must be evaluated to determine their eligibility to give blood. According to the American Red Cross, blood donations help millions of patients in need. Every unit from donated blood goes through a series of steps and tests to ensure that it is safe.

All human blood may look alike, different blood types need to be matched correctly.

“I am pleased to host a blood drive here at East English, it’s important that we do our part”, said Sgt. Mag. Eduardo Rosario, JROTC instructor. “There is always a need for donations and I believe our students will be eager to help the lives of others.”

Major has donated blood in the past and said he enjoyed the opportunity to help others. He plans to donate blood again in May 2017.

Sophomore Joseph Oden

welcomed the opportunity to donate blood.

“Helping others is one thing I can’t turn down,” Oden said.

Oden said he felt relaxed during the donation process. He focused on his ability to help someone in need.

“It’s better to give than to receive,” he said.

After donating blood, Oden admits that he was a bit dizzy, but was offered juice and cookies. The snacks replaced the fluids lost and he was able to recover quickly.

Oden was able to return to class just 15 minutes after donating.

SPORTS

VOICE OF THE VILLE

EEVPA hosted its very first blood drive sponsored by the American Red Cross. After donating blood, students were offered juice and cookies to combat dizziness.

STUDENT LIFE

BULLDOG SPOTLIGHT:

School remembers beloved teacher Allayne Woods

VOICE OF THE VILLE

Gregory Elliott, a 6-foot-4 senior is ranked as the second best guard in Michigan’s Public School League. Elliott has been playing basketball since he was 7 years old, but it wasn’t until he was in the sixth grade that he realized he wanted to pursue a career in basketball.

Elliott's hoop dream

By Taylor Hardnett Voice of the Ville Gregory Elliott has received many offers from schools including, University of Detroit, Cleveland State, Toledo, Rice and Marquette. Elliott has yet to commit to one school. He wants to weigh out his options before committing to ensure he is making the best selection.

Elliott stands at 6-foot-4 and is currently a senior at East English Village Preparatory Academy. He is a guard on the varsity basketball team. He is ranked as the second best guard in Michigan’s Public School

VOICE OF THE VILLE

League and is well known both in and out of school.

But Gregory, who had a 3.3 grade-point average, said he doesn’t really think about all the attention he gets.

“I enjoy playing basketball and aim to get better and better,” he said. “That’s all that matters to me.”

Elliott has been playing basketball since he was 7 years old. It wasn’t until he was in the sixth grade when he realized he wanted to pursue a career in basketball.

As a sophomore, Elliott was awarded the Detroit Public

Adviser: April D. McDaniel Crain mentors: Sherri Welch & Dustin Walsh

Schools Player of the Week, Detroit State Athlete and This Month Black Athlete.

Elliott’s Coach Juan Rickman said: “It is a pleasure coaching Gregory. We have a really good coaching relationship. I believe Elliott will be highly successful in five years and will successfully graduate from college, then go on to the professional league.”

Rickman added: “Elliott is a good player that works hard, has a lot of strength and is versatile on the floor.”

Elliott said his No. 1 goal is to be drafted into the NBA.

By Maryann Claxton Voice of the Ville Allayne Woods will not be forgotten because she was special and had a huge impact on students’ lives.

Woods taught English Language Arts at East English Village Preparatory Academy for the past five years. She was a dedicated teacher who went above and beyond her job description.

Woods often encouraged students to reach their full potential and often provided rigorous tutorials in SAT and ACT Tests. She died of cancer on Dec. 18, 2016.

East English Village senior Nikolas Huey said Woods truly cared about her students.

“She inspired me to write an essay which I won a scholarship to travel abroad to Italy,” Huey said.

Huey was one of two finalists of the Palazzo Strozzi Foundation.

As a finalists, he participated in a month-long academic program based in Florence, Italy, over the past summer.

Woods attended and graduated from Detroit Public Schools. She earned both a bachelor’s degree in journalism and master’s degree in education from Wayne State University. Woods spent the early life her of career as a successful advertising and marketing specialist for several major newspapers including the Oakland Press and the Detroit Free Press.

“Woods went beyond teaching, she used her brilliant mind to cultivate, nurture and expand

VOICE OF THE VILLE

Finalist Nikolas Huey and Kharriane Gray pictured with Allayne Woods at a the Palazzo Strozzi Foundation Scholarship Banquet. Woods inspired both Huey and Gray to submit essays for the opportunity to travel to Italy.

horizons,” Brenda J. Nimocks, East English Village health teacher, said.

She said crossed paths with Woods at various stages in life.

“I worked with Woods’ father, who was a well-known pharmacist in the neighborhood and was familiar with many of her family members,” Nimocks said.

Nimocks said she was elated when Woods was also a teacher at EEVPA. “It was a pleasure working with Woods,” she said. “She was a rare jewel and treasure in the teaching community. It has been an honor to have been acquainted with her.”

Staff Writers: Calvin Austin, David Brown, Brendan Campbell, Sheporia Clark, Maryann Claxton, Tay'Veon Cleveland, Cierra Davis, Brandy Ellington, James Ferrell, Keyera Gaultney, Precious Gist, Albert Grant, Taylor Hardnett, Iyana Hardy, Jalen Hawkins, Cornejah Jackson, Jai'La Jackson, Arnika McClure, Tariq Sheperd, Danajah Turner, Jaida William

Feb. 22, 2017 DetroitDialogue.com 13 SPORTS

Track and field star signs with Cleary University

By Carrimia Owens and Davina Hogan Crusaders' Chronicle On Feb. 9, track and field senior Marisa Hunnicutt-Mitchell signed with Cleary University (CU), a college in Howell, Michigan.

King “Marisa has a natural talent and speed. She will be great for the team and help us out tremendously,” said Cleary University coach Sarah Boyle. “We had to have her at CU.” Mitchell came to King at the beginning of her senior year. She felt King had the coaching talent to enhance her athletic abilities.

She has been a part of track and field for several years and has developed a passion for the sport.

In her off season, she participates in cross country.

“I love running. It’s freeing,” said Mitchell. “These were some

GYM

Cristo Rey completes renovated gym FROM PAGE 8

Construction for the new gym started in August and students, including members from our basketball team, couldn’t be any more proud of the end result.

“It gives me confidence, in my school and me,” said senior and varsity girls basketball player, Saubir Logan.

Prior to the remodel, the gym still represented Holy Redeemer HS, the school that was there before Cristo Rey. It was covered with purple and gold in each and every wall and corner, to represent the Holy Redeemer Lions.

However, the new gym, covered in the school colors of green and gold and with the Cristo Rey mascot smack-dab in the middle, represents the students much more now.

“The new gym lets us know who we are, and makes the statement that we are the Cristo Rey Wolves. It’s not just about the sports, but the whole school and students in general,” said junior OPINION

Should I fear attending the University of Michigan?

CRUSADERS' CHRONICLE

Track and field senior Marisa Hunnicutt-Mitchell signed with Cleary University.

and varsity boys’ basketball player, Christian Perales.

The new gym didn’t appear overnight. Construction went on for four years. First money had to be raised, and then Cristo Rey’s athletic director, Brandon Peoples, had to create the design of the new gym.

Then, the school needed suppliers that were willing to tag along and assist them on this process.

Nonetheless, the long process was well worth it, Detroit Cristo Rey’s President, Michael Khoury, says he “loves it so much he walks down to the gym twice a day to bring happiness into his day.”

The new gym shows how much this small but powerful school has grown and is and always will be the home to many of our students, especially Perales.

“I’ve played in this gym since middle school, when it still said ‘Holy Redeemer.’ Playing in it now, with a new gym as Cristo Rey… feels like I’m really a varsity basketball player for my high school,” said Perales.

The gym still honors the old Holy Redeemer High School with a memorial on both sides of the gym.

By Cydeny Gardner-Brown RHS Stentor RHS and other DPSCD students received acceptance letters from University of Michigan-Ann Arbor.

For many, myself included, this has been a long-awaited dream, and the excitement of going off to university is just setting in.

But transition from a predominantly Black high school to predominantly white campus will be stressful for a lot of us.

Increasing instances of known racial discrimination on campus makes this transition much harder.

We are going off to spaces

of the proudest moments of life.”

During Mitchell’s four years in high school, she has accomplished a lot. As a freshman Mitchell came in third place in the state championships. When she was a sophomore, she was MVP for track and field at Bradford Academy in Detroit. As a junior, she won the Charter Schools Conference for the 400 relay.

Mitchell was approached by several colleges.

Some of which were Madonna University, Judson University, and Missouri Valley College but Mitchell was drawn to CU. “I felt CU was a perfect fit,” said Mitchell. “It is close to home and it has a greater history behind its name.

CU has a history of producing champions in women’s cross country. This year, Madison Paquette finished third in the 3000-Meter and Aleighsha Engisch finished sixth in the 800-Meter at the Hillsdale Wide Track Classic.

OPINION

College should be free for students with 3.0

By Camryn Walker The Diagnostic There are people with good grades who want to go to college, but can’t pay for the expensive costs of a college education. If college was free for students with a high school grade-point average of 3.0 or better, people would have the opportunity to express their talents and try new things. They would not be stuck in low wage jobs struggling to pay their college tuition. They would get the education they deserve and not work so hard to attain and pay tuition for rest of their lives.

These students would not have the struggle of paying off loans.

Graduating with a large amount of student loan debt can reduce the chances of people owning a home, getting a decent job, getting married, and even having children.

The idea that hard work pays off doesn’t seem to be all that true if hard workers who obtain a GPA without guarantee of our safety.

Renaissance Wednesday, Feb. 7, for example, hate mail appearing to be from U-M computer science professor, J. Alex Halderman, appeared in Black and Jewish engineering students inboxes. “The KKK has returned,” “The SS will rise again and kill all of your filthy souls,” and “Heil Trump”.

The professor’s email account was allegedly hacked, but the university is still investigating the source of the emails.

above a 3.0 have to decide between turning down the college they have been dreaming of or paying student loans their whole life.

Benjamin Carson Why should money determine whether people should be able to pursue their dreams in college?

Free college for people with a high GPA could inspire teens to work harder to get free tuition at the college of their choice.

Maybe people who considered not attending college might change their mind because college tuition is free for the students who meet the criteria.

What does money have to do with the right to an education? College should be an amazing experience and an honor that shouldn’t be limited to those who can afford it.

At the Clinic for Success at Benjamin Carson High School, seniors post their college plans.

Diagnostic writer Camryn Walker argues that students with 3.0 grade-point averages should be able to go to college for free.

Whatever the case, minority students are in uproar over the constant exposure to discrimination.

Renaissance alumni and other Detroiters attending U-M have texted me their concerns. In short, for them, being Black at a PWI is getting worse. As a Black future Wolverine, these events trouble me, and I’m beginning to question my admission.

I grew up being taught that the skin I am in is beautiful, and that I am capable of success. The thought that I will soon be confronted by people espousing the opposite messages terrifies me.

I’ve heard stories every few months of the forbidden N-word being spray painted across a wall on campus or written on the doors of Black students – stories of female Muslim students having their hijabs ripped from their heads. I recognize these are not the “values” of the university, but these kinds of occurrences are happening.

When I learned that U-M was forced to drop affirmative action from admissions I wondered whether U-M was a space for me.

Recent events have confirmed my fears that I won’t be warmly welcomed.

THE DIAGNOSTIC

14 DetroitDialogue.com Feb. 22, 2017

CRUSADERS’ CHRONICLE A public forum for the students and community of Martin Luther King Jr. Senior High School | crusaderschronicle.com STUDENT LIFE

Senior could leave the country for an educational journey

By LaKharia McKinney Crusaders' Chronicle Senior Shalonda Shamily was awarded an opportunity by the Council on International Educational Exchange (CIEE) to be an exchange student this summer.

CIEE is a nonprofit organization that provides educational travel to high school students.

“I’ll be studying modern and standard Arabic and studying the dialect that’s spoken in Morocco, which is also Arabic,” said Shamily.

Most international studies directors, travel to high schools all across the world to help students and market CIEE.

“Students who study abroad, are a lot more hireable in the workplace and culturally diverse,” said international studies director Andee Skjonsberg.

Learning languages other than one’s native language can be a plus in a society. Being bilingual or multilingual can open doors in education and the workplace.

“I’ve always loved learning different languages and expanding my knowledge on it. It became like a second love,” said Shamily.

Many high school students across the world don’t get to experience some of the things the world has to offer, so being rewarded

something as great as this, is a wonderful thing.

“I found out about this opportunity because my former Arabic teacher informed me about the program,” said Shamily.

CIEE is an exciting, lifechanging program designed to expand students fully in a new culture. They offer the structure, resources, care, and full support needed to make the experience a beneficial one for students.

“I feel this opportunity is benefitting me because I want to be a translator,” said Shamily. “What else could help me to be more involved and experienced.”

STUDENT LIFE

King students, staff talk about love

STUDENT LIFE

Dancers perform with skillfulness and elegance

CRUSADERS' CHRONICLE

TOP: Juniors and seniors of Dance Workshop present a jazz piece to Beyoncé’s Formation.

BOTTOM: Senior Destiny Outlaw completes a modern dance selection.

By Alana Burke and Madison Wood Crusaders' Chronicle Dancing is a disciplined field. It requires students to be clean cut, focused and determined.

The students in King’s dance program match this description.

King’s dance program, which has won countless awards and competed in competitions across the state, has been thriving for years due to the coaching of Denise Allen who started dancing at the young age of five and danced her way through high school and college.

“I have been a dance teacher for 33 years,” said Allen. “Dance has given me the opportunity to travel and perform around the world.”

Dancing is known for its skillfulness and elegance but most people are not aware of how hard dance really is mentally. Incoming dancers usually have some struggles because dance may not be their desire.

“When we have practice and see someone struggling, we usually see if they need help or what we can do to fix it,” said sophomore Trinity Donaldson.

Though dancing can be strenuous it can also help students to be confident, focused, and calm.

One of Allen’s students who has

By Tayauna Holloway Crusaders' Chronicle “To me love is only having enough food for yourself but making sure that your children eat first. Not having a coat, and giving your coat to someone else, meaning you care about the other person’s well-being over yours.”

Michael Brooks, Junior varsity basketball coach and teacher

“It’s just something you have a passion, desire for no matter what. It’s a real deep liking for something. That’s really what it is, and you make no excuses for it. I mean you make time for what you want.”

Tyrone Spencer, Varsity football coach and health teacher

“GOD!”

Anneatra Kaplan, Health and physical education teacher

“To me love is when you’re willing to give someone the last of what you have and being able to share with them.”

Keyshontae Johnson, Freshman

See Love on page 21 »

CRUSADERS’ CHRONICLE

CRUSADERS' CHRONICLE

Senior Shalonda Shamily’s career goal is to be a translator and being an exchange student could help her.

Managing Editor: Alana Burke and Carrimia Owens Adviser: Veronica Hollis Crain Mentor: Jim Treece

been in the program for three years said she believes that the program helps to create a support system for the girls in the program.

“Dance helps me express myself because I go through a lot and by me dancing I can leave it all on the floor,” said junior Mariah Shorter.

“We help each other when we have practice. We go to each other and encourage one another.”

Dancers have the opportunity to leave high school and dance on the college level, but many students don’t take advantage of this.

“In Detroit Public Schools, many students don’t go on to major in dance or dance professionally,” said Allen.

Despite this, Allen has former students, male and female, who are graduating from Marygrove College with a major in dance and a few who are dancing professionally.

From Allen’s current class, senior and dance captain Carene McGaughy plans on minoring in dance because of her love of dance and Allen’s influence.

“I love to dance. I’ve been dancing since middle school,” said McGaughy. “She [Allen] pushes me to be better than I already am.”

Current King students with an interest in dance, please see Denise Allen in the dance studio, and others can call (313) 494-7373.

Staff Writers: Jade Brookins, Antneisha Gardner, Mya Garland, Marko Harden, Tayauna Holloway, Kapricee Jackson, Tatiana McAfee, Lakharia McKinney, Dhevhouen Stinson, Daimanique Stinson, Imani Tripp, Madison Wood, Tez Wright

“If you can’t fly then run, if you can’t run then walk, if you can’t walk then crawl, but whatever you do you have to keep moving forward.”

— Martin Luther King Jr.

Feb. 22, 2017 DetroitDialogue.com 15 CRUSADERS' CHRONICLE

1 | As spectators moved through the history of African Americans, they came upon African Royalty.

VEIL OF IGNORANCE M L K D AY

LIFTING THE

By Daimanique Stinson and Imani Tripp Crusaders' Chronicle King’s staff and students held its annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. celebration on Monday, Jan. 16. This year’s theme, “Lifting the Veil of Ignorance,” afforded spectators an educational journey through the history of the African American experience. The “veil of ignorance” is a quote from John Rawls, a philosophy professor, which suggests that people sometimes make decisions for justice behind a metaphoric veil.

“I think that this event being held at Martin Luther King High School, where I am an alumnus, speaks volumes to the fact that we cannot let the dream die,” said Angelique Peterson-Mayberry, Vice President of DPSCD (Detroit Public Schools Community District). “In doing the dream, we also have to be in position to put action behind the speech.”

To educate onlookers, certain wings of King’s facility were set up with skits, speeches, information, and singing. Also, visitors were divided into groups, with each group arbitrarily assigned a race: black or white. The “blacks” received poor treatment while “whites” received superior treatment.

“Your staff and students certainly put forth a great deal of time,

CRUSADERS' CHRONICLE

2 | Seniors Tia McKalpain and Jalin Willis portray Coretta King and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. 3 | Congressman John Conyers addresses a packed auditorium with words of encouragement about unity for all people.

4 | Seniors Jonita Jarrell, Daimanique Stinson, and Jasmine Givens reenact the pain suffered on the middle passage.

5 | King’s JROTC leads the MLK day parade followed by many organizations and community leaders.

effort and energy in making the many visuals hanging around the building, planning the role playing and displays,” wrote teacher Gary Cousino of Rochester Community Schools in a letter to Principal Deborah Jenkins.

The annual MLK day was certainly a sight to see. Over the past eight years there have been thousands of people from all over the state of Michigan to attend.

“I don’t think the message ever grows old,” said Jenkins. “We are supposed to live our lives to model the way so that we can create a better world.”

The exhibits helped youth who may have been less familiar with the issues and history to become more aware, and brought to life why people still celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday.

“At times, I could see that my daughter was uncomfortable, which made for a great learning conversation and the opportunity to see other perspectives,” wrote Cousino. “It was a very educational and worthwhile day.”

Congressman John Conyers, Reverend Wendell Anthony, Senator Gary Peters, Interim DPS Superintendent Alycia Meriweather, and Detroit City Council members Brenda Jones, Mary Sheffield, and James Tate were some of the distinguished guests.

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16 DetroitDialogue.com Feb. 22, 2017

RHS STENTOR

A public forum for the students and community of Renaissance High School | rhsstentor.com ACADEMICS

Student publications must grapple with student deaths

By Destiny Dortch RHS Stentor Death is inevitable but not typical during high school.

When deaths do occur, it creates conversations and learning experiences for Renaissance’s yearbook and newspaper staffs, who are given the task of deciding how to appropriately report deaths within the student body.

Current seniors have grieved four peers’ deaths during their time at Renaissance.

Maia Wright lost her battle with cancer on Mar. 7, 2014. Billy Watts ended his life on Oct. 24, 2014. On June 7, 2015, LaKreisha Johnson, then a RHS sophomore, and her brother Gemel Brown, a former RHS student, died in a motorcycle crash. And Chancellor Smith took his own life on Sept. 25, 2016.

This year the RHS yearbook staff must consider two deaths as Johnson was supposed to graduate in June and Smith died during the current academic year.

RHS yearbook and art teacher Rachael Walker has experience handling the subject of death in student publications.

Wright and Watts each had two-page dedication spreads in the yearbooks when they would have graduated, highlighting the impacts they had on their school and community. RHS’s student publication Dialogue, formerly FreepHigh, wrote stories about Wright and Watts.

Samantha Hillery, a Herff Jones yearbook sales representative, suggests schools should have policies to eliminate questions of how to publish student deaths.

“What happens if the next

person dies, and you don’t do that?”

Hillery said. “Are you saying that one person is more important?”

Walker and Hillery agree that a policy for this matter would simplify a complicated issue.

School have various cultures, religions and administrations, therefore district-wide policies are not ideal. Hillery believes that schools should create policies that fit their schools’ needs.

But some schools get by without an official policy.

Former Lake Orion High School newspaper adviser Yvonne Claes developed her own procedure when her school had no policy for reporting deaths in student publications.

“We first talk to the students’ parents, and asked if it would be OK to do a feature story on their son/ daughter,” Claes said.

RHS STENTOR

LaKreisha Johnson and her brother Gemel Brown died in a motorcycle crash on June 7, 2015.

Johnson was a sophomore at Renaissance at the time. She would have graduated this June.

Claes contacted the families directly for permission to publish, as well as her principal, and for pictures, promising to let the families review articles before publication.

The staff included applicable information on the nature of students’ deaths.

“If a student died of cancer, we would run a sidebar story, informing

SPORTS

Renaissance says farewell to senior girls basketball players

readers about that particular form of cancer. If suicide, we would provide information on depression (if applicable), as well as resources for someone having suicidal thoughts,” Claes said.

Walker suggests the RHS yearbook should publish memorials no longer than one page, “because of the amount of attention it draws to such a negative thing.”

The women’s varsity basketball team said goodbye to their 2016-2017 season January, as well as to its senior players.

Lady Phoenix has dribbled together for years and shared their best memories and plans for the future.

PHOTOS BY JAMARIA JOHNSON. TEXT BY DJIBY COULIBALY, NINA REYNOLDS AND JOSEPH ROY

TAMIA CALLOWAY CENTER

SAMANTHA MCPHERSON CENTER

NNENNA NNAJI POINT GUARD

NINA REYNOLDS FORWARD

VICTORIA WRIGHT GUARD/FORWARD

Center Tamia Calloway is attending Wright State University and is undecided on her major.

The young women’s senior night helped her appreciate that she finally made it to end of high school. “We had a big dinner, laughed, danced and sung. We all just had a good time together.”

Center Samantha McPherson plans to attend Central Michigan University and major in social work. Senior night will be unforgettable for her. “That was the most fun I had with my teammates. Even on an everyday basis, it’s never a dull moment when we’re together.”

Point guard Nnenna Nnaji led in steals and assists with 46 each. She is deciding between Albion and Lindenwood-Belleville University, and play basketball while studying sports medicine. Last year’s championship is Nnaji’s favorite memory. “We worked really hard that season and our hard work paid off!”

Forward Nina Reynolds led the season with 66 field goals and 172 defensive rebounds. She plans to attend Central Michigan University and aspires to be a broadcast journalist. Her favorite memories are the team outings.

“It’s the only time we don’t have to worry about getting on the baseline to run!”

Victoria Wright finished her season with the highest free throw percentage on the team: 70%. Her favorite moments were the games, because she was happy to have the opportunity to play alongside people who valued her presence.

“It felt great to be around people who were genuine and people with whom I could connect.”

RHS STENTOR

Adviser: Kyle Goodall Crain Mentors: Omari Gardner & Mike Lewis

Staff Writers: Tori Armstrong, Camaria Beasley, Jalynn Bell, Jasmine, Betts, Cydni Bonds, Zaire Bridges, Autumn Chambers, Mark Cornelius, Kristina Davis, Chandra Fleming, Kristen Gibbs, Cinque Harris, Imani Harris, Taliah Hoye, Jasmine Jordan, Nyah Lewis, Tylar Lewis, Maisha Massey, Kayla Mccoy, Dasia Moore, Shyanna Mosley, Braia Ogletree, Shaina Petty, Makayla Rand, Tariq Reid, Semaj Rogers, Sage Sanders,, Erika Spivey, Andrea Square, A’Lyse Thomas, Taylar Williams, Inglyand Anderson, Jacob Boyd, Sheridan Branch, Erynn Brantley-Ridgew, Sasha Burts, MaKaylah Butler, Montex Butts, Tamia Calloway, Alano Carter, Catera Chambers, Djiby Coulibaly, Tavion Curry, Kynlyn Dalton, Shakyra Davis, Ma’at Dismuke-Beaver, Destiny Dortch, Meanna Durham, Cydney Gardner-Brown, Haley Gilley, Naimah Green, Taylor Gribble, Dalyn Henderson, Lacie Hudson, Jamaria Johnson, Solomon Lucy, Ceara Mcintosh, Lamarea Moore, Bria Mosby, Dorillion Payne, Myiah Richards, Jordan Robinson, Joseph Roy, Sumone Spivey, Mariah Tucker, Nyree Turner, Kristen Waters, Danielle Williams

Feb. 22, 2017 DetroitDialogue.com 17 STUDENT LIFE

STUDENT LIFE

8 Things You Should NATURALLY (UN) PROFESSIONAL? Know Before Going

NATURAL

By Jalynn Bell | RHS Stentor Four years ago, I began my natural hair journey with the goal of growing my hair to become healthy and long.

When I first began, I didn’t realize how much time, effort and money I would have to put into styling my curly hair. I wish now that I then had a guide for caring for my fragile 4B/4C hair. I hope this list will serve as such a guide, helping you growing your hair out to its optimum length as soon as possible.

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GOING NATURAL IS A JOURNEY This is not a quick fix, and you won’t see immediate results (I promise). Lauren Crymes, another Renaissance senior says you need much patience. It took her three years to restore her natural curl pattern after extreme heat damage.

2

MOISTURIZING IS NOT AN OPTION

No matter your hair’s length, if it’s dry and without any kind of moisture, it’s going to break off and grow in shorter than when you first began your journey.

Tip: in between natural stylings, about three or four days after styling, lightly mist your hair with water and seal in the moisture with a light oil. Grape seed oil for dandruff prevention and strengthening; coconut oil for split ends and breakage prevention; argan oil for a heat protectant and curl definer. Make sure any store bought moisturizer is water based.

3

MISTAKES AND SETBACKS ARE INEVITABLE From breakage to dry hair, from bad cut to bad styling: You are bound to make some mistakes. As long as you bounce back, it’s not a big deal. A little extra love and being more gentle on your hair – along with cutting back on heat styling – should get your hair right back to where it was. If you discover that you have a lot of heat damage, don’t give up on the journey. Snip the ends, take notes, and keep it pushin’ to the next style. (See #1 – Going Natural is a Journey)

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TRANSITION OR BIG CHOP This all depends on preference and comfort. Transitioning consists of doing natural hairstyles to grow your hair out until you no longer have relaxed or heat damaged ends. The big chop

is when you cut out all of the damaged or relaxed hair, so that all you have left on your head are your natural curls. Many people don’t big chop because they don’t feel comfortable cutting off the majority of their hair. However, this method is the safest way to obtain natural status. Unlike with transitioning, you don’t have to worry about the damaged ends splitting and breaking off your healthy hair, leaving it uneven.

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PRODUCTS & PRODUCTS There isn’t a universal product for everyone’s hair. One of the biggest obstacles that men and women face in the natural community is finding a regimen of products that works for them. Brandy Harrison, a Cass Tech alumnus, said: “[My biggest hair challenge/ obstacle is] finding products that don’t have certain toxins and chemicals (I.e. anything listed among the ingredients ending in –sulfate or –cone excluding behentrimoniummethosulfate and water soluble silicones) in them.” When looking for a product, make sure that it works well with your hair. Be sure also take a look at the ingredients on the side of the bottle. Understand all of what you’re putting on (and in) your hair. Avery Shaw, another Cass Tech alum, says too that his biggest obstacle is finding products that work for him. Ingredients aren’t a problem for him, but his hair tends to frizz and lose definition after it dries.

Your hair’s density and porosity will determine how products work with (or against) your hair.

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DENSITY AND POROSITY Many in the natural community forget this when purchasing natural hair products, because everyone’s hair is different. They aren’t the same thing as hair type.

Your hair type is based off of the shape of the shaft that your hair grows from, and the size of your curls. The density of your hair is

how thick your hair is collectively.

Density = how many hairs you have on your head. The denser your hair, the heavier the products need to be in order to keep your styles in tact. The porosity of your hair is how well your hairs absorb and retain moisture. If your hair is highly porous, it is most likely damaged and loses moisture just as fast as it absorbs it. If your hair has low porosity, make sure to apply heat while deep conditioning; only apply styling product when your hair is damp or wet.

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NO REASON, NO PROBLEM Many people choose to go natural because their hair is damaged and they want to bring it back to life.

(Reality check: all hair is dead once it leaves the hair shaft). Camille Hollenquest, a Cass Tech junior, had been getting perms for 4 years when her mom helped her transition from relaxed to the natural girl she is today. Many choose to go natural simply to see why it has become popular: Your hair is on your head, and you can decide however you like to treat and style it.

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By Imani Harris RHS Stentor

As an aspiring journalist, Michigan’s premiere student journalist organization – the Michigan Interscholastic Press Association – disheartens me.

Recently I read its “Best Practices” in video journalism: “On-air talent … female: avoid trends and wild colors, most women wear hair down, should not overlap eyes/face or impede with microphone.”

I run my hands through my kinks, wondering how I should achieve getting to lay my hair down without harming its texture.

Does only flat hair deserve to be on television? Is Black hair bad hair? Is “white hair” the standard? If so, we’ve got a problem.

Telling a Black woman to straighten her hair for “best practices” is like telling a Woman of Color that she should use whitening cream to appear professional. Although said person could whiten her skin, changing races denies her, her identity.

Black hair in its natural state is not altered by flat irons, pressing combs, or chemicals. Natural Black hair is curly, sometimes described as “kinky,” and it rarely appears naturally flat.

The natural hair website, Natural Haven, highlights how prolonged heat exposure can cause irreversible changes to the natural structure of one’s hair. The protein that makes my hair curly, keratin, is melted when pressed/

NAME TK / THE STENTOR

blow dried/flat ironed.

According to MIPA, and based on what I see on television, to be a “good” broadcaster, I must literally melt the protein that makes my hair unique. I am stripping myself of my identity, and it would be very hard to “bounce back.”

For many, it takes months, even years, to transition back to the natural state (or years growing it back after cutting the damaged hair off).

It is not possible for a Black woman to abide by “best practices” in video journalism if she wants to retain her natural hair. It’s prejudiced enough to consider straight hair the only “good hair,” but telling races of curls and waves to physically or chemically alter their appearance for the sake of “best practice” is flat racist.

Natural hair is equally professional, insofar as black and brown skin is equally presentable.

A woman with curly hair is just as capable of reporting with style as the woman with the straightest hair in the world.

My kinks don’t make me less of a journalist.

STUDENT LIFE

EMBRACE IT Joining the natural community works its way into your life and becomes a big part of who you are. With the hard work and time you put into your look, it wouldn’t make sense to hide behind hats, scarves, and wigs. Show your hair off! Be proud of your roots! Having curly hair is a trait that many envy.

You can at least learn to love it.

Avery said it best: “If you want to go natural, just do it and love it no matter what hair texture or length it is, you just have to rock whatever you want to rock. At the end of the day, it is your hair and you have to be comfortable with yourself.”

Don’t let anyone tell you that your hair is too nappy or too coarse or textured (that doesn’t exist).

Everyone’s hair was intentionally made. However your hair grows, that texture is made specifically for you. To be comfortable with yourself, you must love yourself inside, outside, and on top!

BRIANNA WILLIAMS / THE STENTOR

BLACK IS BACK: Appropriation of hair

Howcanwebecomecompletelycomfortableifwhite womenaremorecomfortablewearing“blackhairstyles” than we are?

MARIA TUCKER

Checkout the full story on detroitdialogue.com

18 DetroitDialogue.com Feb. 22, 2017

PANTHER PRESS

A public forum for the students and community of University Preparatory Academy High School | upreppantherpress.com SPORTS

STUDENT LIFE

GREAT

DEBATERS

UPrep debate team racks up awards

Amiri Gollman Panther Press The UPrep Debate Team continues to win awards and accolades for the high school. The team consists of 15 “great debaters” from grades 9-12 who are dedicated to learning and debate.

The debate team has won countless awards this year at debate competitions. February 1 the team participated in a debate an won 3rd place.

Debate leader David Foster won 1st speaker for the Varsity division by arguing against a debater about the value of human lives versus animal lives. David is a strong student at UPrep, he is a part of the drum line, police academy, and this year he will begin playing football.

The UPrep Debate team is a part of the Detroit Urban Debate League a debate league that started in 2009 with the support of several community partners including Wayne State University. WSU hosts most of the debates for the students.

The debate team is excited to continue on to National competition that begins on February 23.

The debate team at UPrep has received national recognition. Last school year two of their debaters were given full ride scholarships to college and they were the first African American team to win national debate competitions.

Students are encouraged to see Mrs. Johal-Hunt if they are interested in debate opportunities.

UPrep grabs Charter School Conference PANTHER PRESS

Javan Jackson, top, and Melik Miner, right, helped University Prep to the Charter School Conference title with a 64-49 win over Detroit Old Redford on Feb. 17.

STUDENT LIFE

​UPREP DRAMA CLUB ADVANCES TO STATE COMPETITIONS Renee Carter Panther Press The University Prep High School drama club advances to state drama competitions. The Michigan Interscholastic Forensics Association (MIFA) produces the annual drama competition.

The first round of state competition was at Avondale High School in Auburn Hills.

The drama club performed the one act play Oedipus Rex. Drama teacher Elayne Petrucci says, “Markius Cartwright-Huff is an amazing Oedipus!”

PANTHER PRESS

Drama teacher Elayne Petrucci is dedicated to drama students and introducing them to the world of theatre. “I’ve been doing these competitions for over 15 years,” Petrucci said. UPrep was the only school from the city of Detroit who performs the MIFA one-act competitions. These are the largest one act productions in the state.

The drama club practices six days a week until late in the evening sometimes they don’t leave campus until after 7 p.m. Many of the students have been acting with the school for several years

Adviser: Kecia Smith Crain Mentors: Kristin Bull & Carlos Portocarrero

11th graders Joshua Stephens and Kenneth Duncan are dedicated drama students have already won countless awards.

Twelfth grader Nia Jackson began with the drama club last year and she has already won a Superior award for her performance this year at the regional competitions.

Jackson is a singer and performer for the local Mosaic Theatre Group in Detroit.

At the time of publishing the drama club was preparing to compete at the state competition in Charlotte, Michigan.

PANTHER PRESS

The UPrep drama club practices six days a week until late in the evening sometimes they don’t leave campus until after 7 p.m.

Staff Writers: Breann Barge, Pierre Blanks, De’Erika Bryant, Renee Carter, Nykia Chaney, Lyric Dothard-Ware, Kristofer Dye, Kharmesha Frost, Elijah Garlington, Anayah Gorman, Raven Greene, Hawk Grier, Jumyia Hawkins, Michael Jackson, Picabo Johnson, James McFolley, Nakara Neely, Shawn Pittman Jr., Jalen Roberson, Rashidah Shorts, Shelbi Smith, Kiara Stephens, Recco Townes Jr., Alysa Wiggins, Taeshon Williams

Feb. 22, 2017 DetroitDialogue.com 19 STUDENT LIFE

Story of local Detroiter Farmer inspires CMA students

By Andrew Mitchell The Communicator People in life sometimes struggle to overcome challenges.

Feelings as if life is against them and they will never make it.

The story of local Detroiter, Nicole Farmer’s life shows teens at CMA that anything is possible if you put your mind to it.

At just age 13, Nicole Farmer was pregnant and she and her grandmother did not see eye to eye.

As a result, she found herself living in a group home. Farmer lived in several different group homes and soon finding herself living inside of a car. Just when things seemed worse Farmer was forced to give up custody of her baby.

Life seemed to be against her and there were times when she wanted to give up. Everyone hits a low point in their life and believes that they won’t succeed. However, she was able to change her life

Communication & Media Arts around when she was approached by an owner of a mechanic shop and soon became the first AfricanAmerican woman and youngest person to own a Tuffy Muffler shop. But even when life seemed to be going well, after four years the business failed and she was forced to close it.

STUDENT LIFE

“The story of Nicole Farmer reminds me of the struggle that all races have had to face in order to succeed in their life,” senior Nikolaus Craft said. “And how that anything is possible in life if you put your mind to it and do not give up when things get hard.”

She didn’t give up. She started a new business called “Lifeline,” which has helped millions of entrepreneurs and teenagers start their own businesses.

STUDENT LIFE

SENIORS

PINNED TOGETHER Seniors participate in the official inclusion into the graduating class

SPONSOR

By Mya Garland and Tez Wright Crusaders' Chronicle On Feb. 10, seniors participated in a ceremonial event, Senior Pinning. The goal of pinning is to celebrate the milestone and tradition of the senior class.

Seniors are presented a pin to mark their achievements. The pin symbolizes the seniors’ eternal connection to Martin Luther King, Jr. Senior High School and their official inclusion into the graduating class.

VALENTINE'S

DAY

King

THE COMMUNICATOR

The CMA senior class sponsored a host of activities for Valentine's Day, including the annual senior Sing-a-Gram. Money raised supported a trip to the Motown Museum.

By Karmen Hardaway and Logan Stephenson The Communicator The senior class sponsored a host of activities for Valentine's Day to support a trip to Motown Museum.

Red roses and carnations, balloons, candy and bears dominated students lockers, halls and hands.

Seniors partnered with the National Honor Society who wold other treats and put together the annual senior Sing-a-Gram tradition. The tradition began with the class of 2015. Students enjoyed heartfelt melodies from talented peers

Communication & Media Arts sent from there loved ones.

Senior singers Shannon Fleming and Jada Hall are former members of Mosaic Youth Theater and are conducting the team with daily practice until the big day.

Students from all grades participated in auditions and select few made it as lead singers, harmonizers and the latter were put into groups.

Students that are lucky enough to receive them are filled with

Her company has become a million-dollar company and is still around to this day.

“A lot of people have dreams in life of wanting to be successful and they don’t always get it on the first try,” senior LaShawn Smith-Wright said. “Sometimes it takes more than once to get to where they want to be in life no matter the obstacle.”

The story of Nicole Farmer tells it all.

pure happiness and slight embarrassment.

"I was extremely excited that someone took the time to make me smile but I was super embarrassed because it was sung during lunch and everybody stopped eating to stare,” said senior Briana Underwood.

Students who receive the Sing-a-Gram aren't the only ones embarrassed most of the students that auditioned are pushed to the limit and have never sang in front of big audiences.

“I'm nervous but excited to sing and put some smiles on face” said senior Jaletha Lucas.

“The biggest accomplishments I have succeeded with is just graduating itself,” said senior Melvin Dalton.

“Chemistry was a hard task to go through, but I am looking forward to trying even harder and going out with a bang to go to EMU or MSU.” Seniors have built a close relationship with their peers. Some have been together since ninth grade and the idea of not seeing their peers can be overwhelming.

“I feel like I’m finally getting a connection with my classmates,” said class vice president Erin Martin. “Someday, most of us won’t ever see each other again.”

Aside from parents pinning

their son or daughter, seniors had a chance to present their parent with a cap and gown, photo dog tag. At that moment, the twelfth grader shared with the parent words from his or her heart. Many of the seniors were emotional as tears streamed down their face.

“There are somethings that me and my mother go through personal wise,” said senior Kayla Williams. “Her being there [at pinning] with me and me being able to give her my dog tag and sharing that emotional experience is amazing because she’s like a mom and a dad to me since my dad passed away.”

The pinning ceremony was especially rewarding for parents to see their child overcome high school challenges.

“My child has proved me wrong due to the fact that I didn’t think that he was going to reach his goals of academically achieving above average grades,” said parent Rose Love. “Just passing itself is a goal for me.”

As this year comes to a close, the community gets to see what type of individuals will emerge as graduates of King.

“Senior pinning was remarkable,” said assistant principal Lawrence Fitz. “We get to witness how much time and effort they [seniors] have put throughout every scene of their life.”

CRUSADERS' CHRONICLE

Members of this year’s senior class have built a close relationship with their peers. Some have been together since ninth grade.

20 DetroitDialogue.com Feb. 22, 2017

WEST SIDE TIMES

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

PANTHER PRIDE RUNS DEEP

By Brittney Blue and Gjvon Washington West Side Times West Side Academy Panther’s basketball record doesn’t suggest a championship run, but the leadership of the team’s upperclassmen suggests a turnaround is just a season away .

Although they are a young basketball team, the players are not letting that stop them from making their marks as players. Senior Scott Nelson is one of those players, and he has proven himself to be the best on the team at WSA. His statistics speak for themselves.

This season, Nelson has averaged around 20 points per game. He is the current team captain, the leading scorer and the overall fan favorite according to the amount of applause he receives when his name is called before the game.

“Scott is a great shooter. His strength is definitely three point shooting and he is very consistent

WEST SIDE TIMES

Senior Jordan Glenn provides strong leadership for the West Side basketball team.

OPINION

with his scoring,” said gym teacher Nadirah Muhammad.

Coach Darnell Jackson had many positive things to say about Nelson.

“Scott is a hard worker,” Jackson said. “He loves the game of basketball and he definitely has the drive, will, passion and commitment to achieve his dream of playing college basketball at the next level.”

When asked about being the team’s most valuable player, Scott said, “It feels good to be the MVP because I have lots of support from my team.”

His goals for after high are to go to college. He also plays other sports, such as basketball, football and baseball. If that doesn’t work out he wants to be a coach in some capacity. .Overall, Nelson has a very bright future ahead of him.

WSA’s team also has strong leadership skills in senior Jordan Glenn. Although not the captain, Glenn is very vocal and steps in as the voice when direction is needed.

“Our team has great potential, but since we are a school that is not known for people coming here to play sports, we have many first and second year high school varsity players,” Glenn said. “That is bound to give a team many ups and downs, but we believe in each other and our time is coming soon.”

Another strong leader on the team is junior George Miles.

Although Miles stands at only 5-foot-7, he asserts his dominance as a leader on the team. He plays the positions of small forward, power forward, center and backup shooter.

Miles’ highest scoring game consisted of four points, along with four steals and five rebounds. He sees his weaknesses as his left-hand layups, a little bit of his handles and his height. His strengths would be using his right-hand, his speed and aggressiveness and shooting skills.

“Basketball isn’t really my dream, but if it just so happens to go further, I’d continue playing,” said Miles.

OPINION

LETTER GRADES DON’T DEFINE YOU

By Christian Kinsey West Side Times Grades tend to define every student from kindergarten through college. It’s a standard we must rethink.

A child who sees a D or F next to their name comes to believe that is who they are. They believe they are dumb.

Nothing can be further from the truth.

Those who’ve known me for the past two years would likely think I fit the traditional “good student” model. I carry a 3.875 grade-point average and have above average standardized test scores. However, I was not always like that. Before I made a change, I had a 1.5 GPA. My grades were mostly Ds and Fs, with the occasional C, but I was the same student then that I am now. I knew I needed to change my ways, and I started completing all of my work and refocused my priorities towards earning nothing less than an A. The continuous shoveling of standardized testing and computerized aptitude assessments just makes it worse.

Kids are convinced that a single letter or a series of numbers can truly define them. I’m here to tell you that that’s

WEST SIDE TIMES

not true. Grades do not measure your intelligence.

The current system is a simple game of memorization. In many instances, students don’t actually learn.

When I took driver’s training, I memorized the entire instruction book cover to cover, and I passed with flying colors.

A year and a half later, my younger brother is now in driver’s training, and I can’t recall anything from my experience.

With any system, there are always anomalies, and there are many that argue that our current system is the way to go. Grades help measure what students actually learn, they argue.

I wholeheartedly disagree.

While the intent of the grading system was likely positive, it has not stayed that way.

Simply put, this is not the right way to grade students in 2017. At times, it feels as if they want students to conform to a standard learning and assessment styles. The idea of this makes me sick.

To this I say that there is no way a grade can represent the intelligence a student has to offer.

Let’s rid ourselves of this letter fixation once and for all.

Editors: Quaneisha Washington Adviser: Suzanne Olsen Crain Mentors: Victor Galvan

WEST SIDE TIMES

In 2017, you will rarely see a student without some form of music with them at any given time.

Music makes life better

By Alex Carlisle West Side Times How many times have you had to study for a big test and can’t find any type of motivation.

So you pick your phone up and turn on your favorite turn-up song and all of a sudden you forget what’s holding you back, and just get to studying because now your mind is relaxed. A clear and focused mind will help you study.

Why can’t that be a tool in the classroom?

Also, music can help you when you feel as if things are not going your way. For instance, you could have just gotten out of a relationship with someone you thought would be there with you for eternity, but thing just

didn’t go as planned. All you can do is sit there and wonder what caused things to fall apart and what are some things that you personally thought you could have done that might have made your dream of lasting forever a reality.

So you just turn your music on to your favorite playlist and just go lay in your bed and cry yourself to sleep.

Music just completes life. Without music, life would be a blank or colorless page, but with music the world is full of joy and amusement. Music brings you closer to yourself. When you feel that you are being separated from your soul, it brings you back.

How can that be a learning distraction?

Staff Writers: Brittney Blue, Carre’ Burks, Bria Coleman, Ashlee Diamond, Davontea Fast, Lashaunta Hornsby-Oliver, Ruben Jasso, Nia Kelley, Christian Kinsey, David Little, Samantha Patton, Andre Riley, Brandon Rogers, Trinity Warren

Feb. 22, 2017 DetroitDialogue.com 21 STUDENT LIFE

College acceptance letters open doors

By Kenyetta Henderson The Communicator During the past three months, seniors have received their first college acceptance letters. For many students, it was their first step into adulthood.

College coordinator Patricia

Hudson-Johnson said, “This year we started earlier with our college and on-site admission process.”

The new Detroit College Promise scholarship initiatives students and staff were eager to participate.

“I went home after school and there was an envelope and balloons

saying congrats, I am on my way to EMU, I was surprised and happy,” said senior Tia Cunningham.

Many students agreed that after they received their first college acceptance letter or call, they felt more at ease. “I went in my email and it was like yay you got accepted

SPORTS

Communication & Media Arts to Wayne State, so I ran in the room to show my parents,” said senior Brittani Allen.

Students who promptly applied to college were among the first to receive the letters.

“Being accepted into the school of your choice and dream is one

LOVE

Students share their thoughts on love and relationships FROM PAGE 14

“It’s indescribable! You miss them when they’re gone and when you finally have them back, you just don’t know what to do."

Camron Garrison, Sophomore “Love is when someone’s really important to you and cares most about you. They’ll do anything it takes to make sure you’re okay.

Taking care of a person you know when they’re weak and you pull them back up.

Marquan Ruffin, Junior

“Love means a warm feeling in your heart just knowing that people really care about you and they care about what happens to you.”

DezTanie Stover, Junior DANIEL SQUARE/CT VISIONARY

of the best experiences of your life that you’ll always remember about your senior year and your decision because it’ll always have an impact of your life. Not many students were able to get into the top college that they wanted but many did, “ said senior Darius Bills.

CMA graduate requirements includes an acceptance letter from a college to ensure every senior applies to college.

“Love is that feeling when you cry with your mom because you lost your boyfriend and she understands.”

Menyatta Porter, Sophomore “Love means caring for someone.

It’s making sure they’re straight.”

DesJuan Davis, Senior

“Love means you miss somebody when they’re not there. Love is a feeling that you really don’t know is a feeling. It’s not even a feeling, it’s natural. It’s the way your body moves towards somebody or the way your minds reacts to a certain person. So love is inside our hearts.”

Sadiyah Echols, Senior

“Love means you wait to show feelings for another person and giving them all that you got and just loving with your heart.”

Marquete Powell, Freshman

STUDENT LIFE

Cass Tech point guard and captain Leonard Silas might be small in size but he plays a massive game, averaging over 10 points per game this season.

LITTLE MAN,

BIG GAME

Senior point guard Leonard Silas leads the basketball team to PSL title

By Joi Arnold CT Visionary Cass Tech senior basketball captain and point guard Leonard Silas might be small in stature but he brings a big game to the court.

Standing at approximately 5-foot-10 and weighing 135 pounds, Silas is not your typical basketball player, but his game is anything but average. He is averaging over 10 points per game this season and helped lead Cass Tech to the PSL title after a 55-47 win vs. King on Feb. 18.

Cass Tech varsity basketball coach Steve Hall said, “this is one of the best records I’ve ever had entering into the playoffs” -- the team has beaten seven of the teams they have lost to in previous seasons.

Silas credits his development into a leader as one of his biggest contributions to the team.

“Being a leader is a trait that benefits me on and off the court everyday. The game against Henry Ford I scored 19 points

Cass Tech and during halftime I reminded the team that we had this game,” said Silas.

Silas began playing basketball at the age of 7 after being inspired by LeBron James. He started his basketball career with a local AAU team called the Nets under the coaching of Cameron Houston, who Silas still considers the coach that made the biggest impact on his basketball career.

“Coach Cam taught me to be tough and overcome obstacles,” said Silas.

Silas also played for other AAU teams including the Michigan Playmakers, the Family, and My Brother’s Keeper before beginning his journey at Cass Tech.

Leonard began playing with Cass Tech as a freshman on the varsity team under thencoach David Dixon. The team is now coached by Hall, who has

changed the way that the team operates while enforcing full court press, discipline and hard work. Silas says that the switch between coaches has afforded the team more college opportunities.

Hall constantly reminds his players to: “Embrace this moment. Embrace this process.

One team. One brotherhood. We grind together, we shine together, No sacrifice, no glory. No pain, no progress. Every play, every day, the CT way.”

Describing himself as “dependable and a leader,” Silas is a top prospect for recruits from Cass Tech.

He recalls the senior night game against Southeastern when senior center Michael Green missed a layup, “I pulled him to the side and encouraged him.

I told him: man, I know you could’ve made that, get your head in the game.”

Moments later Green turned around and dunked on the opposing player.

CT VISIONARY

Unified takes Chicago CT drama department auditions for top theatre programs On Feb. 6-8, thousands of students from all over the country auditioned for the top conservatories in the U.S. Conservatories are preparation academies for aspiring actors and actresses.

Students participating in UNIFIED auditions had to prepare several pieces of material and wow the judges with something special and unique. Although reciting monologues and singing ballads in front of a room full of judges was quite intense, the experience was more than memorable.

22 DetroitDialogue.com Feb. 22, 2017

REVVEDUP

2017 NORTH AMERICAN INTERNATIONAL AUTO SHOW

AUTO SHOW

Traveling down the road of the auto advancements

By Alana Burke and Carrimia Owens Crusaders' Chronicle The evolution of the automobile has transformed how Americans view the traditional car.

Henry Ford brought cars to the masses with the utilitarian Model 5, and then in 1935 he successfully crafted and produced the Model A1, which was designed for comfort, space, and affordability.

After the success of the Model A1, the general concept of a car has evolved to be the advanced, technological machines we think of today.

“Cars are more advanced simply because people are more advanced,” said Chevrolet communications representative Tara Kuhnen at this year’s North American International Auto Show (NAIAS).

TOP: JUANITA ZUNIGA/THE HOWLER

At the Detroit show, a plethora of global automakers unveiled their take on a smart vehicle.

Toyota displayed a newer model of their fuel cell vehicle that runs on hydrogen through the hydrolysis process which is electricity generated from renewable energy resources.

BOTTOM: CHRISTIAN KINSEY/THE HOWLER

Ford's new F-150 (left) got a lot of attention during the Press Preview at the North American International Auto Show.

King “Cars are way more than what they used to be,” said Toyota robotics specialist Ron Williams.

“Cars are just as smart as humans now and their abilities are endless.”

Several cars on display had updated interiors with technological features such as Bluetooth for hands-free calling and texting, in-car Wi-Fi, touchscreen navigation, and more.

“It’s an industry trend to be more connected on the road,” said GM representative Sean Greatrex.

“That’s when you started to see 3G and 4G in the cars.”

Electric cars, invented in the 1800s, became extremely popular in the 1910s, but eventually lost out to gasoline-powered cars.

Today’s electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrids, while more expensive than gasoline-powered cars, have become increasingly popular.

One highlight of the NAIAS was Chevrolet’s 2018 Bolt EV. The Bolt gets 238 miles on a full charge and can last three to four days without having to be recharged.

“Just this morning, the allelectric Bolt EV won the North American car of the year,” said Kuhnen, Jan. 9 at the North American International Auto Show.

As time goes on, cars and other vehicles will continue to evolve with new technology to meet the needs of the consumers.

Feb. 22, 2017 DetroitDialogue.com 23 AUTO SHOW

SURROUNDED BY JOURNALISTS: A STUDENT’S DREAM

By Juanita Zuniga The Howler As I walked through the doors of Detroit’s Cobo Center, the bright lights of the signs reminded me of shining stars on a clear night. There was music, mumbles, the clicks of cameras snapping everywhere. I stood for a second, taking everything in. I was back at the North American International Auto Show, reporting for my school’s newspaper. I smiled; it felt like home.

Cristo Rey Since my last visit to the Auto Show in January 2016, I’ve developed not only as a student but as a journalist. I interned at the Detroit Free Press over the summer, which allowed me to experience what a being a real journalist might be like. I also participated in the Michigan Interscholastic Press Association for the first time

and absolutely loved it. That truly helped me developed into the better journalist I am today.

With all this new material and techniques under my belt, I couldn’t wait to get back to the school paper.

I couldn’t wait to use all the skills I picked up and use them as my own.

I couldn’t wait to walk through the doors of Cobo Center as a more experienced student journalist.

To my right, I saw MercedesBenz, Ford, and Nissan all craving

the attention of spectators.

However, before me, there were tons of people, like me, doing what they loved the most--reporting.

More than 5,000 journalists from 60 different countries attend the auto show every year, according to the show’s website.

Reporters walked the floor with cameras, notepads, and handheld microphones. I felt like I was in a dream. If there’s anything I could’ve ever wanted, it is to be in

AUTO SHOW

a room filled with journalists doing their thing. It was so inspiring seeing everyone getting a quote or picture. It makes me realize that the area of study I’ve chosen for my career is definitely the right one for me.

As I walked through the set ups and stands, I took in every detail of every car. The auto show never disappoints and I’m glad I was able to witness it in its glory as a practicing journalist.

AUTO SHOW

Auto and journalism industries on display

PHOTO COURTESY OF CT VISIONARY

Dialogue's Christian Kinsey, a student at West Side Academy, said of his auto show experience, "Overall, the auto show was an amazing experience and I am so happy I was blessed with the opportunity to attend the event."

AUTO SHOW EXPERIENCE WAS A DREAM

By Christian Kinsey West Side Times I looked around and saw a mass of people clustered around every type of car and truck you could imagine. I took it all in. It seemed like a dream - I could have pinched myself - but indeed it was real. The North American International Auto Show press preview over two days in January had a little of everything automotive, and a bit of stagecraft, and I was excited to see each and every car and what they had to offer.

When I first got to Cobo Hall in downtown Detroit, I was provided with a press conference schedule. Most major car brands had some sort of new vehicle unveiling

West Side Academy or concept car release. In many instances, it was the first time these cars had been seen anywhere. Some companies went big. Ford used Joe Louis Arena for its presentation.

Others stayed small. Audi, for example, had one executive speak as its car was unveiled.

My favorite presentation hands down was the Lexus unveiling. Somehow the automaker managed to erect an entire stage and theater on the show floor, and its presentation included a designer who seemingly formed the Lexus LS out of lava. The car emerged from under the stage.

An honorable mention would have to go BMW, partially because I managed to snag a rare front row seat, but also because of an amazing visual performance accompanied by an opening wall. They revealed the BMW X2 Concept as well as two other vehicles.

I got to sit in a few cool cars, too. Some of my favorites were there, such as the Audi R8 and the BMW i8. I got to take pictures too. The R8 picture is my smart phone’s new background image. I got a chance to get pampered in the back seat of a top-of-the-line Lincoln Continental, complete with Shiatsu massage and an amazing sound system.

I got to sit in the driver’s

seat of a Bondurant Hellcat Challenger SRT and even drove it thanks to their amazingly realistic simulator. I also drove a Ford GT40 Le Mans via another simulator. I got a chance to sit in a Nissan GTR, which was really exciting because one of my favorite rappers, Lil Uzi Vert, often references the car in his songs.

The coolest car I saw those two days had to be the custom Ferrari on display in the Brembo brake supplier section. It was one of the few cars off limits to enter for the press, but it was a beauty to see.

Overall, the auto show was an amazing experience and I am so happy I was blessed with the opportunity to attend the event.

By Kaelyn Collins CT Visionary After the New Year, journalists and automotive lovers have something to look forward to annually: The North American International Auto Show. The Auto Show is held at Cobo Hall in downtown Detroit. A tremendous amount of professionals from all over the country come to the Motor City to preview the automobiles during preview week. This was my second year attending and like last year it was a remarkable experience.

Cass Tech Similar to the automobile industry, journalism is constantly changing. It was an amazing experience to be surrounded by seasoned journalists. What I noticed most this year was how journalists were not only reporters but photographers and videographers as well. I saw reporters with tripods, setting their phones up to shoot videos of the cars. Reporters are required to do it all now; the days of having a reporter and a photographer seem to slowly be coming to an end.

Technology plays a large role in the change we are seeing in the field of journalism.

Reporters can type a story while it is happening and post either during the event or immediately after. The fast pace is one thing I truly enjoy about journalism.

24 DetroitDialogue.com Feb. 22, 2017

RODNEY COLEMANROBINSON / CT VISIONARY

Luxury and highperfomance vehicles like the Lexus LC 500 (left), the Dodge Viper (middle left), typically draw crowds at the NAIAS.

CT VISIONARY

“Cars are more advanced simply because people are more advanced,” said Chevrolet communications representative Tara Kuhnen at this year’s North American International Auto Show (NAIAS).