Issue 4 (2010-2011)

Devil’s Advocate Stanton College Preparatory School

June 2011

THE STANTON ELITE Five Stanton seniors who have made an impact on their community and school.

PROFILES WRITTEN By ELLIOTT BEALE, BRYEON JONES, ALEE MORGANTE, NICOLE DELOS REYES, and LIZ SABATINO

Devil’s Advocate Official Publication of Stanton College Preparatory School

[ June 2011] twitter.com/SCPDevAdvocate

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devilsadvocatepaper.blogspot.com stantondevilsadvocate.tumblr.com

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Features

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Opinions

thedevilsadvocate.tk

Campus Affairs Golden Apple/Silver Star In our final issue of the year, The Devil’s Advocate announces the winners of our annual G.A. and S.S. awards and takes a closer look at the first-time winners . Ms. Tamla Simmons takes the Golden Apple award as this year’s favorite teacher, while Johnny Lewis won the award for best support staff.

Arts & Entertainment

Energy Drinks Hundreds of complaints have been made about energy drink products.

After over 80 reported deaths, reporter Alee Morgante investigated whether these drinks were the cause.

30 Script

One Was Enough Ever see a movie so great that you wish there was a sequel, but when the actual sequel comes out you wonder why they even bothered?

We list the top movies that (in our opinion) never needed to be produced, much less watched.

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Stanton’s Elite

Five reporters take a closer look into the personal lives of five Stanton seniors who are leaving a lasting legacy in our school. Seeing life through five different viewpoints of how to go above and beyond mediocrity these profiles spotlight what it really means to standout among a crowd.

Whether it is their soaring GPAs, their long list of extra curricular activities, or their never ending kindness these five students were voted to represent the best of the Senior Class of 2011.

Club Silence: A Review A review of the club that has people talking. This club has won an award for their outstanding dedication towards the ancient ways of silence.

Sports Pay to Play Recently, Duval County Schools decided to cut the funding of five varsity high school sports including wrestling, lacrosse, golf, cross country and slow-pitch softball. Sports Editor Ethan Brady discusses the reaction to the idea of having student athletes pay to play the sports they love.

16 Cover Story Senior Superlatives

photo by Akeem Edwards

The Devil’s Advocate has taken your votes for the senior superlatives this. Wondering who won Unsung Hero, Dazed and Confused, or Most Likely to Marry into Money? You can find out in the center of the issue!

Please Recycle

Production Staff Adviser Larry Knight

Editor-In-Chief Jazelle Handoush Managing Editor Morgan Donnelly

Section Editors Greg Todaro (Campus Affairs) Missy Major (Arts & Entertainment) Katie Raymond (Features) Ana Hagins (Opinions) Ethan Brady (Sports) Betsy Dailo (Script)

Reporters Yasmin Ali Elliott Beale Kia Cooper Nicole Delos Reyes Bryeon Jones

Letter From the Editor

After four issues, exactly 100 pages, and thousands of story copies, this is it: the final Devil’s Advocate issue of the 2010-2011 school year. But this issue is unlike the others in that it is specific for the kings and queens of the campus, otherwise known as the seniors. The senior issue is 13 pages of games, columns, and photographs in remembrance of Stanton’s elite.

Speaking of Stanton’s elite, the senior class has voted on which of their fellow classmates they think belong in the “Top 5” of Stanton’s students.

If you’re wondering who has won that title, well, you’ll just have to flip through the issue and find out! But even if you’re not one of the Top 5, you may still have won a Devil’s Advocate Senior Superlative, so check out the center spread on pages 16 and 17 (which, for the second time in history, are in full color!).

With that, I wish my fellow soon-to-be graduates luck in all they do. See you guys at graduation Monday, and after that, at our 10 year reunion!

Photography Akeem Edwards

Mason Miller Alexandra Morgante Morsal Osmani Leah Quisenberry Liz Sabatino

Business Manager Morgan Donnelly Art Rio LaVigne

A Sneak Peak of the Issue •

I Saw U Successes

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Senior Collages

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Golden Apple/Silver Star

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Senior Columns

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Senior Superlatives

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Senior Predictions

Issuu Wanting to save a PDF copy of the Devil’s Advocate on your computer? Hoping to read through the issue on your cell phone? Visit our Issuu account to view, download, and browse through all published copies of the Devil’s Advocate at http://issuu.com/devils_advocate.

Devil’s Advocate @ blogspot.com Daily updates about school events (and beyond) Available Online. by JONATHAN KEMP, reporter

photos from the internet

The Devil’s Advocate is now utilizing a blog to publish stories that cannot be published in the quarterly newspaper.

“We wanted to take the stories that were not in the paper and put them on the blog,” said Editor-in-Chief, Jazelle Handoush.

The staff had been using www.thedevisadvocate.tk as their website since the end of the 2006-2007 school year, but they will officially shut down that site at the end of this school year. The new website that the staff shifted to at the start of the new school year is www.devilsadvocatepaper.blogspot.com. The shift occurred so the staff could publish information in a more timely manner. The paper started posting sparingly to the Blogger site in March 2009. However, starting this school year the paper began to really utilize the Blogger site, with each staff member posting a story every week.

The Blogger site is updated virtually every day by at least one member of the staff. Every week there are stories posted about academics, sports, clubs and activities, guidance, the media center, and administration. The types of stories vary just as the ones in the paper do: from straight news stories, to columns and interview pieces. Along with these

Online copies of the Devil’s Advocate are available online.

stories posted every week, the site also posts digital versions of current and back issues of the Devil’s Advocate.

The website has many things to offer, from polls on current issues at Stanton to Twitter updates from the staff. It provides headlines from around the world at the site as well.

It pulls headlines from websites like CNN, FOX News, Sports Illustrated, ESPN, and Jacksonville.com to name a few.Visitors even have the ability to interact with the staff by commenting on stories. The blog also has the opportunity to share via Facebook, Twitter, email, or even put it on another blog. “[The blog] has good stories that help me know what’s going on in school and around the country,” said Kanupriya Gupta, a freshman at Stanton.

The blog publishes the stories the paper cannot print because they are not timely. With the blog the staff can put up stories that deal with up-to-the-minute issues and stories that

The Devil’s Advocate Blog site is updated regularly.

occur at Stanton. Because of the blog the staff can publish all of the stories that are too timely to put in the paper.

The Devil’s Advocate also has a few other websites.

The paper posts PDFs of all the past issues of the paper on their Issuu site (www.issuu.com/devils_advocate). The paper also has a Tumblr page, www.stantondevilsadvocate.tumblr. com, which pulls everything from all the websites and puts it in one place to consume. As far as social media goes, the paper has a Twitter page (www.twitter.com/#!/SCPDevAdvocate), and a Photobucket page at www.photobucket.com/ scpdevilsadvocate.

This school year was the first full year of posting on the blog. Look for even more articles and content on the blog site next year and make sure to check out some of the stories up from this year.

_Rumor Control_

by KIA’ COOPER, reporter

Rumor: No More Arena Graduation?

In a school as small as Stanton, it’s easy for rumors to get out of hand. In order to keep the facts straight, the Devil’s Advocate consulted Mrs. Marigene O’Connor, Student Activities Leader.

As the 2010-2011 school year comes to an end, a new rumor has emerged. Talk around school indicates that there have been questions on whether or not the graduation ceremony will be relocated next school year. Traditionally, the ceremony is held at the Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Arena; Stanton seniors have been having the graduation there for four years. This also includes the class of 2011, who will be graduating there on June 6. For most seniors, graduating from high school is a big deal and the location of the ceremony is extremely important because this will be the last time they will be together as a senior class. Rumors suggest that the new location would be smaller.

photo from the internet

Truth: The Location Will Probably Stay The Same The graduation ceremony is one of the last memories of high school for the seniors. According to Education Central, an online hub for school data, statistics show that Stanton has a 91.2 percent high school graduation rate. Conclusively, the final decision of relocating is up to the Duval County School Board, according to Stanton Student Activities Director Mrs. Marigene O’ Connor.

“I don’t see why the school board would change locations now, we [Stanton] have been there [Jax arena] for four years,” said Mrs. O’Connor.

Although the chances of the school board relocation of the graduation ceremony are “slim to none,” ultimately Stanton administrators can’t be completely sure. The school board bases the decision of the location on the amount of students graduating from that particular school. Stanton has only had four major locations of the ceremony since 1990, which includes: The Florida Theatre, The Florida Times-Union Center of Performing Arts, UNF Arena, and the latest Jacksonville Veterans’ Memorial Arena. Changing the location of the ceremony would be a new experience for Stanton seniors next year, but until then it can be assumed that the ceremony will be held at the Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Arena.

The Location of Stanton’s graduation is up to the DCPS School Board.

Campus Affairs | Devil’s Advocate

3

Apple

Stanton’s &

Sliver

By ALEE MORGANTE, reporter

By LIZ SABANTINO, reporter

Simmons

“She’s crazy, but a fun-crazy, and very likeable.”

-Victoria Leigh, 9th

photo by Alee Morgante

Ms. Tamla Simmons is a teacher whose methods are characterized by hands on learning and independent study strategies. Students learning under her guidance will understand not just the concepts of biology but the aspects of responsibility and independence.

A favorite among students, Simmons has spent six of her eight teaching years at her alma mater and our acquired home, Stanton College Prep. However successful, her entrance into a career in education was all but intentional. After her graduation from Hampton University in 2000, Simmons returned to Stanton because her sister, a student enrolled at the time, needed a favor.

While she was there, an administrator happened to mention that Stanton was in need of a Biology teacher. Simmons, doubting that the school would actually hire her, decided to proceed with the interview process. While becoming a teacher was never her intention, Simmons has been satisfied with her years as an educator. “It has been a happy surprise. I had no idea I would enjoy it as much as I do,” Simmons said.

Perhaps the main reason her students respond so well to Simmons’ methods is her own interest and enjoyment in teaching. “She is very detailed and well informed about the subject of Biology, even with the constant distraction of her students,” senior Crystal Pulak said. Simmons takes pride in her subject and each of her students, working diligently to educate each individual in full depth. Simmons understands that not every student that passes through her classroom will fully understand and enjoy Biology, but she hopes to provide them with at least the inspiration to be something better, and to pursue their passions, whatever they may be. To Ms. Simmons, teaching is not a profession or job but a symbiotic relationship in which an instructor teaches students content and knowledge, and students teach an instructor passion, patience, and ultimately, reward. This approach to teaching is reflected in the reactions of her students.

“She did more than just teach, Ms. Simmons was there for her students,” senior Jane Han said.

Simmons, as a teacher, is not only a provider but a receiver, one half of a balanced relationship that is built on a network of understanding, hard work, mentoring, and comic relief. “There’s something about an interaction that I appreciate. The best part of teaching are the personalities in the room; the relationships you form,” Simmons said. She added, laughing, “it may be selfish, but I think I get more out of teaching than my students. They enrich me. They inspire me.”

Ms. Simmons is perhaps too selfless to realize that her students and peers benefit from her passion just as much as she does from theirs; that they will continue to take for as long as she is willing to give. Simmons does not simply go home at the end of a long school day, she is involved in other school related groups and clubs that contribute to the knowledge and quality of life here at Stanton. As the sponsor of both the Black History Club and the Freshman class, Simmons influences countless t-shirt designs, pep rally plans, and after school meetings. But the club that Simmons is perhaps most proud of is the Recycling Club. As the founder and sponsor, Simmons puts a considerable amount of her time and effort into quietly beautifying Stanton. “I’m so proud. It’s my baby,” Simmons said.

Teaching can sometimes be an unrewarding career, with early mornings and uncooperative students for little pay. But to Ms. Tamla Simmons, the rewards greatly outweigh the downfalls of such a profession. Simmons teaches her students responsibility and passion, while her students teach her tolerance and most of all pride. Even if Ms. Simmons does not plan on teaching here at Stanton forever, her time here is cherished by students and faculty alike.

Tamla

Student Quotes

“Her teaching methods were very interactive with the students, and that allowed “She did more than just teach, biology to become interesting.”

-Zunaira Quraishi, 12th she was there for students.”

-Jane Han, 12th

4 Campus Affairs | Devil’s Advocate

«Star

While academics are an essential for Stanton, the security guards prove themselves to be just as important.

Teachers and students are in class the majority of the day, as the security guards patrol the grounds and keep our school safe. Though all security staff members are important, Mr. Johnny Lewis has shown himself to be an exemplary example of a wellrounded and great protector. Lewis is loved around Stanton and has been awarded the 2011 Silver Star award as a student favorite staff member.

His jobs include maintaining the grounds, and making sure everyone is in class and safe. In addition to his job, Lewis tries to make a personal connection with each and every student here. He takes time to chat with them as they walk in the halls or after school while they wait for their ride, asking about life and school. Lewis has been an employee at Stanton since 2000 and hopes to stay to continue working with everyone.

“Everyone who comes in the gate is my child,” said Lewis. “The highlight of my day is seeing and talking to all the bright students here.”

Lewis can be seen in the bus loading zone in the mornings and afternoons to greet the students as they arrive and leave school. During classes he patrols the halls to make sure everyone is safe in class and doing what they are supposed to do. Lewis keeps an eye on students during lunch and confiscates phones and iPods when they aren’t supposed to be in use. He “enjoys coming to work everyday” and he feels “committed to all the students as a protector and friend.” Lewis is described by the students as a “great guy” and “hilarious.”

Lewis is not only loved by his coworkers, he is also widely loved by the population at Stanton and brightens everyone’s day when they come in contact with them. His teasing and jokes are reasons to smile in between the stressful workload in classes.

“Lewis is a very good and outgoing person who speaks his mind,” said Mr. Norris Smmons, day custodian at Stanton. “He does what it takes, which means sometimes he is strong but other times he is gentle.”

Since Lewis often has to be strong minded and enforce discipline, some students don’t agree with his work and how he goes about doing his job.

“He’s got a misplaced sense of authority and seems to think that taking students’ phones and iPods is securing the school,” said junior Stephen Bass. “Also, I think he gets pleasure from agitating students.”

While the majority of students don’t seem to mind Lewis, he is known to give students trash duty and take away their electronics, which gives people a negative feeling towards him.

In reality, Lewis is just doing his job and trying to keep all his students safe. The students that do disagree with Lewis’ work admit he does a good job.

“I really love how he always opens doors for us and he addresses us by name,” said sophomore Haley Baughman.

Regardless, his’ impact here at Stanton has both negative and positive effects. Some students might not favor his work but he allows a healthy release and a reason to laugh because of his sense of humor that the majority of us enjoy.

“Even though he calls me a different name everyday and won’t let me in the school without a pass, I can’t really imagine school without him,” said sophomore Keturah Young.

Johnny

Lewis

“Even though she threatens to kill us, we still love her.”

-Autumn McNair, 9th

“He’s really funny and he makes me giggle” -Mackenzie Freeman, 10th

“Her classes are all high energy, and a lotta fun.”

-Carly Pelle, 12th

“He’s cool and he gave me a quarter once.”

-Maddie Ragland, 10th

Student Quotes “I love Lulu!”

-Pauline Muturi, 10th

“I don’t really like him because he goes through my texts when he takes my phone.”

-Andrew Berlin, 9th

photo by Liz Sabantino

Golden

“I think he is too playful.You can’t tell whether he is playing or serious at times.”

-Jinetta Howard, 10th “Mr. Lewis is a great guy” -Russell Kelly, 12th

July

Entertainment Calendar August

·

·

Movies

Movies

07.01 07.08

08.05

Transformers: Dark of the Moon (N/A) Zookeeper (PG) Horrible Bosses (N/A) Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2 (N/A) Winnie the Pooh (G) Captain America: The First Avenger (N/A) Friends with Benefits (N/A) Crazy, Stupid, Love. (PG-13) Cowboys & Aliens (N/A)

07.15 07.22 07.29

¯

08.12 08.19 08.26

Album Releases 07.05 07.12

Jay Sean Colbie Caillat Incubus Brian McKnight 3 Doors Down Eric Church City Lights

07.19 07.26

Game Releases 07.05 07.12 07.14 07.19 07.26

The Change-Up (N/A) Rise of the Planet of the Apes (N/A) The Help (PG-13) 30 Minutes or Less (N/A) Conan the Barbarian (N/A) Spy Kids 4: All the Time in the World (N/A) Our Idiot Brother (N/A) Final Destination 5 (N/A) Don’t Be Afraid of the Dark (R)

¯

Album Releases 08.09

Freeze Time All Of You If Not Now,When?

Just Me Time Of My Life Chief In It To Win It

08.16 08.23

Ä

Game Releases 08.01

The Earth Defense Force: Insect Armageddon *XBox 360, PS3* (T for Teen) NCAA Football 12 *XBox 360* (E fpr Everyone) Star Fox 64 *Nintendo DS* (E for Everyone) Captain America: Super Soldier *Nintento DS, PSP, PS3, Wii, XBox 360* (T for Teen) Catherine *PS3, XBox 360* (N/A) The Cursed Crusade *PC, PS3, XBox 360* (N/A)

Sparks writes yet another page turner

Afrobeta Drive A Maria Taylor The War On Drugs Luke Temple Jane’s Addiction Stephen Malkmus And The Jicks

08.23 08.24 08.30

Under The Streets The World In Shambles Overlook Slave Ambient Don’t Act Like You Don’t Care The Great Escape Artist Mirror Traffic

Ä

Far Cry 3 *PC, PS3, XBox 360* (N/A) Dead Island *PC, PS3, XBox 360* (N/A) Max Payne 3 *XBox 360, PS3, PC* (N/A) Deus Ex: Human Revolution *PS3, XBox 360, PC* (M for Mature) The Lord of the Rings: War in the North *PC, PS3, XBox 360* (N/A) Madden NFL 12 *XBox 360* (N/A)

photos from Internet

Reviews

Friday nights at Freebird

By ALEXANDRA MORGANTE, reporter

By LEAH QUISENBERRY, reporter Rating:  Price: $15 - $25 (depending upon the band) Location: 200 North 1st Street Telephone: (904) 246-BIRD(2473)

Rating:  Author: Nicholas Sparks Length: 352 pages Genre: Fiction

photos from Internet

Literature

Concert

Nicholas Sparks’ newest book Safe Haven was released in the The Weeks, an Indie band from, Jackson Miss. is made fall of 2010. Like all of his books, the setting is in North Carolina. up of four members who make it their goal to perform The plot of the story is about a young woman named Katie who across the country, sharing their talent with any rock enthusiasts who happen to run across them.. Many of these moved to Southport in an effort to start over. However, in such a small town, everyone knows everyone else’s business. Alex, a local fans encountered them at Freebird recently as the opening who owns a small store, becomes fascinated with Katie’s every act for Alice Anna. movement. She eventually lets down her guard and they fall into a Their Mississippi influence gives them a Southern rock passionate romance. feel but while their sound may not exactly be country, People often judge Nicholas Sparks for his most known works their lyrics, like other bands, entails personal experiences such as The Notebook and A Walk to Remember, but Safe Haven and feelings the band members have encountered along isn’t his typical sappy love story. It has an element of danger and their path of self expression.

This path was started in 2006 by the five original memurgency. Sparks’ books usually have a ‘love at first sight’ situation, but his bers Cyle Barnes, Cain Barnes, Damien Bone, Chaz Lindsay, and Samuel most recent book was different. It causes the reader to think and put Key Williams. Since then the band has shrunk to four members and they signed themselves into the story. At the end of the book, there is a house fire - Horrible  with Esperanza Plantation, an Indie rock label started in 2002 by Chaney with Katie and Alex’s son stuck inside. The author’s descriptions are so - Okay  Nichols. Since signing on to a record label The Weeks have released two vivid that you feel the pressue and the panic.

- Good  albums Comeback Cadillac and Rumspringa, along with two other albums, Sparks always writes with extreme detail and imagery and this book  - Great Dog Days, released with Olympic Records and Dry Land is Not a Myth, a was no different from his other fifteen. Nicholas Sparks’ exceptional writ - Exceptional self-released album. The band plans on releasing six songs as a set of three ing skills were demonstrated through his captivating diction and descrip7” singles, backed by their label Esperanza Plantation. tions. The book is so fascinating and enticing that it’s hard to put down Other bands that have performed at Freebird are many in numbers but all share a uniafter you get started. Safe Haven is definitely one of Nicholas Sparks’ best pieces of work. versal bond that all performers do, one that their different sounds and styles cannot divide Out of the fifteen past Nicholas Sparks books, six have been made into movies and this their need to express themselves as artists. This is an opportunity provided by Freebird an story plot is no different. The plans to create a movie were expected before the book was opportunity that will be open to bands for years to come. even published. Judging by his past motion pictures, this movie will probably be great.

Arts & Entertainment | Devil’s Advocate

5

The Artist’s Corner Woe to the Complacement Get off your mountain and see what we all see This world isn’t stable This world is evil You’re content as we all struggle and deal with the angry hearts of mankind How can you be so blind to all of this Step up and be what you’ve been called to be How can you be so blind to all of this As a follower you must realize Faith isn’t a fashion statement Get off your mountain and see what we all see This world isn’t stable This world is still evil Step away from your luxury Leave it all behind The sins of man have left this city stained in blood The tears have found their way to the dirt It’s time we stop the hurt We’re all tired and sick of crying into the sand Please God, bring down your reign before we all, are drenched in blood WE ARE TIRED! We’re all tired and sick of crying We’re all tired and sick of crying into the sand Please God, bring down your reign before we all, are drenched in blood

About the Artist: Seizing the Final Victory

photo by ???

We are Seizing the Final Victory. As a band, our goal is to share the love of Christ to everyone who hears our music.

In our form of worship, we play hard hitting music with a positive message. This band started in late 2009/early 2010. Our first show was at a church in Brunswick, GA but now we commonly play at Murray Hill Theatre in Jacksonville.

Luke Barber (bass) books all the shows and does most of the promoting.

Conner Ewing (vocals) deals with photographers who want to shoot us. Mason Brown (guitar) deals with merchandise and merchandise designs. Cameron Harville (guitar) provides transportation and THE Jesse Lee Key (drums) provides finances, food and a place to practice.

Our inspiration includes The Ghost Inside, A Plea for Purging, The Gun Show, City and Colour, and Have Heart.

We have upcoming shows on June 10 in Melbourne, FL, June 16 at Sunburst Studios in Jacksonville, June 18 in Brunswick, GA, and July 2 at Murray Hill Theatre in Jacksonville. Currently, this band is recording a 5 song CD called “From Captivity” which should be released in July or August.

“It’s been the hardest, most expensive, most time consuming, most stressful thing I’ve ever done but it’s for a good cause and at the end of the day I’m truly happy with what we’ve done with this music,” said Luke Barber.

We update our Facebook page constantly, and our song seen above and many others can be found at: http://www.facebook.com/seizingthefinalvictory

Song of the Issue:

One Was E N O U G H !

by MORSAL OSMANI, reporter

Everyone has favorite movies that they can’t get enough off, but does this necessarily mean that they want more even if it’s so bad it ruins the image of the first movie? Well that’s what most sequels do, except for some, very limited ones where the more movies they make the better they get, such as Toy Story and the Harry Potter franchise. But again sequels that exceed their original movie are a rare occurrence and for most movies the phrase “one was enough” defiantly applies.

Beverly Hills Chihuahua 2 Hollywood Rule #1: if the original movie did not fair well, do not a produce a sequel. The masterminds behind the original Beverly Hills Chihuahua should have understood this concept, but my guess is they figured the only reason the original didn’t do well was because it obviously needed more talking dogs.

In the sequel they fix this problem when our heros, Papi and Chloe, get married and have a litter of talking puppies.

The problem soon follows afterwards, which only the animals can solve of course and (spoiler alert) they do eventually save the day.

Although, saying one was enough with the original movie is an understatement, unless you’re a kid who can’t get enough of talking animals; for everyone else just watch an animated movie instead.

Legally Blonde: Red, White & Blonde Has anyone heard of the phrase leave a good thing alone?

Well, after the success of the original Legally Blonde, the producers should have stopped there and maybe wouldn’t have landed on Entertainment Weekly’s Top 25 Worst Sequels Ever Made list.

The critical consensus being that “this blonde joke is less funny the second time around.”

The movie follows Elle Woods played by Reese Witherspoon trying to pass a bill to outlaw animal testing after she finds out her dog’s mom is being used in a make-up testing laboratory.

Along with the weak plot, the film takes the easy way out by going for easy laughs at easy targets, as well as easy issues. For example, the Republican in the movie who found out his dog was gay, which is probably the only high point of the movie.

In addition to this train wreck of a movie, the producers went on to create another movie based on this franchise, called Legally Blondes, featuring two blonde twin sisters in high school. This is another movie definitely not worth watching.

Mean Girls 2 Straight to DVD: three horrifying words that strike fear into the heart of every producer deservingly happened to Mean Girls 2. This sequel to the original ultimate teen movie Mean Girls was a complete disaster from every angle.You can hardly even call this movie a sequel to the original 2004 hit, since it’s just a low budget remake filled with Disney stars.

Besides, what do you expect from a movie with the same storyline, same message, and similar pranks as seen in the first film?

The casting of the characters was also poorly done, there was no dynamic presence in the sequel contrary to that of the original with Lindsay Lohan. Also, the dialogue between the characters was anything but funny, it all felt forced at times.

My advice is to just watch the first Mean Girls again and if the sequel happens to come on ABC Family one day, as I’m sure it eventually will, don’t set your hopes up too high.

Never Forget You by Lupe FiascoïW

6 Devil’s Advocate | Arts & Entertainment

To listen to this song visit our website: www.devilsadvocate.tk

Athlete of the Issue:

Pay To Play

Keanna Bell

It’s Friday night, gameday. The entire day is devoted to the big game, getting hyped throughout class, pep rallies in the afternoon, and war paint smeared on the faces of hundreds of students, but its all for nothing. The stadium is empty, the lights are out, the unpainted grass is dying and there’s no football, all due to the 2011-2012 $90 million budget shortfall by Duval County Public Schools. This scenario could very well come true in the near future and if it does, what will athletes have to do to play sports for the schools they love? Pay to play.

Recently Duval County Public Schools decided to cut lacrosse, golf, cross country, wrestling and slow pitch softball at both the varsity and junior varsity level. This is believed to save about $750,000 annually in the budget and more cuts are believed to come throughout the summer.

Playing high school sports can already be an expensive activity for athletes at Stanton. Many sports including lacrosse and baseball usually require the players to purchase their own equipment. Stanton freshman baseball player Westin Pertmer says paying to play sports at Stanton is nothing new.

“I already had to pay to play baseball. We had to purchase our own uniforms,” says Pertmer. Many similar stories can be heard around campus about athletes having to use money out of their own pockets in order to be properly prepared for their season. If athletics are cut in this year’s budget reform, those same athletes may have to pay even more steep costs in order to play sports.

Even though most of Stanton’s students agree having to pay more to participate in athletics is a pain, the general consensus is that it will be a necessary burden. “I think it is needed,” says junior Jasmine Smith. “Paying is better than having no sports at all.”

Sports are more than just winning and losing in high school, athletics allow students to gain important life skills such as teamwork, determination and leadership. “Sports shouldn’t be taken away from our students,” says Senior Austin Udongwo who participates on Stanton’s football and track teams. “It helps students stay out of trouble and pave their way to being better individuals.” Groups such as The First Tee and the NFL’s Play 60 program were created specifically for this reason, allowing kids to play sports and build character rather than doing nothing and dabbling in potentially illegal activities. The benefits of these programs is they are free and readily available to children, the issue is that many programs like these are geared towards younger kids due to the availability of free sports in high school for older teenagers. If sports are continued to be cut in this year’s budget there will be thousands of student-athletes without after school activities.

Even though many students agree that they would be fine with having to pay to play the sports they love, there are those students that may not have the financial resources to participate. Paying to play high school sports is a popular solution to the county’s possible budget cuts but it will still exclude a certain number of students.

Regardless of Duval County’s decision regarding athletic budget cuts, students should not worry, there will be sports played at Stanton next year. Though there has already been cuts in numerous sports club teams will continue to prosper and replace our school’s Duval county funded varsity teams.

Stanton By The Numbers

By Ethan Brady, sports editor

5

Varsity sports cut by Duval County

11

Lacrosse players on the field for one team

photo by Akeem Edwards

By ETHAN BRADY, sports editor

Senior Keanna Bell is a varsity tennis player for Stanton and helped the team win the Gateway Conference Championship this year with a score of 4-3.

She has had the great priviledge of playing tennis with one of the greatest players in the game, Venus Williams. Bell is activiely involved in the community, teaching tennis to local youths.

................................................

Senior Year has finally come to an end, and what a great year it has been. Playing tennis with the Stanton Tennis Team has been an experience in itself and I am going to miss playing with my team.

I have been playing tennis since the third grade and fell in love with it the first time I picked up a racket. I came to learn that tennis would be one of my main teachers in life because I play almost everyday of the week. The major things it has taught me was that practice makes perfect, patience is key, and having a strategy is the way to succeed.

I have also been fortunate and blessed with ample opportunities. Growing up playing tennis in the MaliVai Washington Kids Foundation has been amazing. He is truly a great professional who cares about what he is doing for children like me. (this is the club that students from our school volunteer at and we call it HUGS) He is the reason so many blessing have come my way, including having opportunities to be in multiple newspaper articles since I was in middle school at Darnell Cookman.

Who could have ever thought I’d be so lucky, and not for one moment will I take any of my blessing for granted.

My tennis life has jumped to all different levels. Playing tennis with the Mayor John Peyton and the Sheriff John Rutherford for the past eight years has been great. These are not people that I thought I would get to know for more than a day let alone eight years. Having the opportunity given by my sponsor Karen Mckinnon to meet and play tennis with the amazing woman tennis player Venus Williams was a major highlight in my tennis life. She was amazing and very humble.

I would like to thank the people in the front office and our principle Ms. Majova for displaying the article about us in the front office, you all found out before me. All of these people have added even more to why I love tennis and why I continue to keep striving in life.

My senior year has been the best of all. Our tennis team played Paxon to win the gateway conference 4-3. It was such an uplifting match for our team because we showed school spirit and teamwork even with some injuries to the team.

Playing tennis brought me so many good friends and competitors that helped me become a better player. For me to make the all gateway conference team was a great way to end my tennis career in high school.

Hopefully I can continue to teach little children tennis like I have been doing for five years. Teaching kids the sport that has influenced and balanced my life has helped me to gain a well rounded personality within myself. I hope to inspire those who need that extra influence in life like I had in mine. I truly believe anything can happen for anybody and my ticket just happen to be tennis.

21

Duval County High Schools

462

Male and female Lacrosse starters without a team

Devil’s Advocate | Sports

7

2010-2011 Stanton Sports Review

By YASMIN ALI, reporter

The 2010-2011 Stanton sports season was full of success, firsts, and broken records. Throughout the year, thrilling games such as the Stanton-Paxon basketball double overtime thriller and the success of many sports were joined by great stories such as senior Janie McMoneagle becoming the first female athlete to play football in the 142 year history of our school. Overall Stanton had a successful athletic year and this is the 2010-2011 Stanton Sports Review.

Tennis The boys tennis team ended an amazing 17-0 season as District 3 Champions and Region 3 Champions. Two team members, juniors John Kirby and Stephen Ireland, are going to state this year, while Mitchell McCauley ended up becoming the third ranked player on the team. He currently is the only player to remain undefeated for the entire season.

Swimming During the 2010-2011 season, the Stanton swim team broke boundaries set by past Stanton swim members. Not only did the girls team end the season with a 7-2 record, they had two girls advance to the Gateway Conference. Similarly, the boys team ended the season with a 6-3 record, including one person advancing to Gateway Conference. The sweetest prize all season was two records being broken by five different athletes. The 10 year Stanton record for the 400 Free Relay was broken by sophomore Brandon Holton, sophomore Peyton Hull, senior David Berlin, and senior Nick Blume all with a time of 3:18:81. The record for the 200 medley was also broken by sophomore Brandon Holton, senior Nick Blume, senior David Berlin, and senior Sonny Kadric with a time of 1:40:95.

Boys Basketball

Football Even with the football team winning four games this season, they managed to create an even bigger history. For the first time in its 142 year history, senior Janie McMoneagle became the first female to ever play Stanton football marking a whole new era. Further signifying the importance of this season, two of the four SCP wins came against our rival Paxon.

The most memorable moment for Stanton sports during the 2010-2011 school year definitely came from the boy’s varsity basketball team on Jan. 7, 2011. Their epic win over the Paxon Eagles after two overtimes, four quarters of regulation, and a three point shot that just made the buzzer has a place in Stanton’s basketball history.

Ending with a successful record, the basketball team exceeded everyone’s expectations to end an amazing season.

Blue Devil Favorites

By ETHAN BRADY, sports editor & MASON MILLER, reporter Every Stanton athlete has their own unique pre-game rituals and quirky activities with their teams.

Whether it be a favorite restaurant or pre-game song every Stanton sports team has their own tradition and events ot prepare for the big game.

Devin Alexander

Garrett Ruckel

Wrestling & Lacrosse

Baseball

Flag Football & Basketball

Pre Game Ritual: Listen to music, go to Firehouse Subs at the towncenter.

Pre Game Ritual: We go down to the corner of the field and make a big circle. Then we high five everyone in the circle.

Pre Game Ritual: Matching my black socks with the blue jersey, white socks with the white jersey and setting it off with my pink shoes.

Music: “Kick Start My Heart” by Motley Crue

Music: Remixes to songs that i randomly sing.

Music: Any kind of rap to get me pumped and ready for the game.

Team To Play Against: Paxon

Team To Play Against: Ribault

Team To Play Against: Paxon

Favorite Moment: When we beat Terry Parker in the District Semi-Finals.

Favorite Moment: Coming back from a deficit with 1:15 left to beat Ribault on Senior Night.

Favorite Moment: Beating Paxon in double overtime.

After Game: Go home to reflect and recover from the game.

After Game: Go home! Games are too exhausting.

After Game: I go home and sleep.

Music: “Remember The Name” by Fort Minor Team To Play Against: Fletcher Favorite Moment: When I beat the state qualifier for Episcopal in wrestling.

Quote: I don’t consider myself a role model but all the kids should try to be me... try.

8

Sports | Devil’s Advocate

Nadia Ruiz

Zack Perry Basketball Pre Game Ritual: Have a big shoot around after school and hang out with all my friends.

[Editors] Jazelle Handoush, Editor-in-Chief Morgan Donnelly, Managing Editor Missy Major, Arts & Entertainment Editor Betsy Dailo, Script Editor Ana-Alesia Hagins, Opinions Editor Greg Todaro, Campus Affairs Editor Katie Raymond, Features Editor Ethan Brady, Sports Editor The Devil’s Advocate serves as the official newspaper of Stanton College Preparatory School. It is produced monthly by members of the Journalism class. The editors reserve the right to edit any material submitted to the paper for content, grammar, length, and accuracy.

The Devil’s Advocate is a public forum for student expression, which encourages free exchanges of opinions concerning controversial and non-controversial community and school related issues. The ideas and advertisements expressed within the newspaper are not necessarily those of the newspaper adviser, school administration, or the Duval County Public School Board.

The Devil’s Advocate accepts advertisements from all businesses in the Stanton community. The ad format can be given to the staff or the adviser, Mr. Larry Knight.

Students, faculty, and parents may contact the staff and adviser at (904)-630-6760 ext. 143 or at knightl1@duvalschools.org.

School Changes

A dark storm is brewing over the heads of Duval County students as the beginning of the 2011-2012 school year draws near. Faced with an unprecedented budget shortfall of approximately $97 million, the district has proposed the elimination of extracurricular activities precious to students including sports, music, and art. Whether you like to run track, play the trumpet, or doodle in art class, if you’re a student living in Duval County, chances are you may be disappointed by the changes put in place for next year.

The rumor of “no more sports” is no longer a rumor. It’s the harsh reality. The budget cuts imposed by Governor Rick Scott and other officials in Tallahassee ensure that Duval County public schools will be devoid of any sports programs for the coming school year.

However, it comes as no surprise seeing as how Duval County has experienced three consecutive years of budget cuts. With over $150 million lost within the past four years, it was only a matter of time before district officials started cutting everything but the activities most pertinent to the core curriculum.

Still, the loss of sports alone will have an enormous impact. Athletics mold well-grounded individuals; they build character and infuse students with principles such as leadership, discipline, and teamwork. By stripping away sports today, we’re essentially crippling the leaders of tomorrow. Students will not be able to earn athletic scholarships either, meaning hundreds of thousands of dollars in scholarship money will be snatched from the hands of the county’s most deserving athletes.

Still at risk are the art and music education programs that give many students the incentive to pursue secondary education or simply a means of which to explore their creative endeavors. Like sports, the creative outlets of art and music are essential to a wholesome and pleasant lifestyle. It would be a shame to do away with such scholastically beneficial factors.

In addition to the elimination of non-core curriculum activities, talk of a four-day school week is also stirring up controversy in Tallahassee. Under the four-day schedule, the district would extend the length of each school day. Therefore, students would spend the same amount of time in class over the course of four days as they would with the normal five-day schedule. While some students would shout praises at the idea of a four-day school week, the socioeconomic consequences of such a change scream disaster.

The proposed four-day schedule would put an additional financial and emotional strain on parents who depend on their children to be in school on Fridays while they go to work.

Coupled with the loss of after-school activities, the loss of an entire school day would give unsupervised teenage students more leeway to stir up trouble. Any given afternoon or Friday could potentially turn into a run-in with the law. Concerned parents can pay for their children to be enrolled in educational programs on Fridays, but the extra expense will only serve to aggravate them more.

While the elimination of fine arts programs and the introduction of a four-day school week are still under discussion, there is no ignoring the horrific aftermath if such legislation comes to pass. The Duval County school board must compensate for the $97 million shortfall, even at the expense of its students’ happiness and welfare. As abysmal as that may sound, we have no choice but to accept the painful reality and try to weather the storm.

Expect Less, Pay More?

School is where students are supposed to learn and acquire knowledge for their future careers, while learning a thing or two about life along the way. An education was something you had to want in order to get it. If you didn’t earn it then you had to suffer the consequences and there was no one else to blame for your failures, but all of that has changed. Now it seems as if the requirements and expectations of Duval County students have declined, and people still look forward to their children excelling. If everything is handed to the students then there isn’t any room for effort. What does that say to them?

One of the many things that have helped pacify our students for at least the last five years is the existence of grade recovery. If a student fails to make a satisfactory grade in a subject he is allowed to complete several steps and take a test that raises the quarter grade by one letter. It’s a guaranteed second chance for students, regardless of the effort put forth during that particular set of nine weeks. While it is beneficial for the student, it gives the teacher more work to do. It takes away from the idea of having a deadline to meet and having a job done correctly by that set time. Grade recovery provokes an expectation of there always being a second chance to get things right. Sometimes life doesn’t allow for second chances, in many cases the first time is the last time.

Because the expectations from students have lowered, the roles of teachers have gone beyond just teaching. Teachers are there to help students acquire the education needed in order for students to be self-sufficient later in life. However, teachers are now responsible for students getting their work when they’re absent, they’re responsible for students turning in their work, not to mention, a student’s effort overall. These are things that are normally supposed to be self-driven, but now society expects teachers to do it for them.

Responsibility is something the student’s parents are supposed to teach them, not the teacher. Because students aren’t being taught to be responsible, the teachers are now being threatened by passing rates being the determinant of the how much they’re paid. So, for the teacher it now comes down to a matter of making things easy so the students can pass in order for them to get paid decently (like they aren’t already under paid), or actually trying to help their students get the knowledge they need. For some teachers it’s not a problem, but one has to take precedence over the other. How can parents or even state legislature expect teachers to help students who won’t help themselves when the opportunity is given? It teaches students that there is always someone else there to take the fall for their failures in life, but clearly that isn’t true.

We all know that life can be full of surprises, so students don’t need a blanket of protection being pulled over their eyes. When it’s time for students to become independent and take responsibility for their own actions, it’s going to be harder than it should be for them to adjust. Why put such low expectations before future generations if you expect great things for the country they live in? It’s a contradiction, and an ironic twist that students aren’t prepared for. It gives students the idea that they can put in less work and expect more benefits than what is due to them, but that’s not how life works. The ways of life haven’t changed. Two plus two is still four, and you still reap what you sow.

Halos

Pitchforks

We crown every student that will be moving on to the next grade level, especially the freshman.You made it through your first year at Stanton. Enjoy your summer; you deserve it. (Well... some of you).

We give a pitchfork to the Duval County for taking away certain sports. These budget cuts are getting ridiculous.

We crown the Girls’ and Boys’ Track Teams for placing first and second place, respectively, at Districts. Congratulations ladies and gentlemen!

We give to administration for assigning the days teachers can give final exams instead of letting them decide. Maybe they can get a date range, and then pick a date within that range. It’s just a suggestion.

We crown Tamla Simmons for winning the Golden Apple, and we crown Johnny Lewis for winning the Silver Star. Thank you for having such a positive impact on Stanton’s student body.

We give a pitchfork to the lunch prices. $3.50 for two fries and three pieces of chicken? Stop the madness!

Opinions | Devil’s Advocate

9

For centuries the age old question of parenting has evolved with the changing times, but, with the new decade a new question has arisen, “Which parenting style, authoritarian or passive, produces the best student and person?” Recently, this question has been implemented regarding Amy Chua’s book Battle Hymn of the Tiger Mother, where she describes her authoritarian parenting methods. Authoritarian parents are ones who expect obedience and have a high level of control with low responsiveness. Passive parents on the other hand are parents who utilize little parenting guidelines; they remove themselves from the responsibility of parenting altogether.

While these two parenting styles are the complete opposite of each other, there is clearly one parenting style that overrides the other.

Parents with strict rules and guidelines definitely produce the best student and overall person.

Authoritarian parents, although extremely demanding, know how to control their children. Kids with these kinds of parents tend to understand the consequences of their children’s actions, so they do everything they can to keep their children out of trouble.

Their children tend to not engage in problem behaviors, out of the fear of their parent’s punishments and have extremely good grades. Personally, I prefer parents who provide rules and guidelines to children, because children know their limits and tend to show more respect to authority figures. Psychologist Diana Baumrind conducted a study in 1991 on more than 100 preschool-age children on different parenting styles and how they affect children. Baumrind discovered that authoritarian parenting styles generally lead to children who are obedient and proficient.

Passive parents on the other hand don’t parent at all. They are rarely involved in their children’s lives and typically create the worst student. I have seen these types of parents personally and in the media. These types of students are usually involved in activities like drinking, doing drugs, and having sex. They are out of control and don’t listen to any authority figures.

Here at Stanton students are relatively familiar with these parenting styles, although their affects vary depending on the student. While some students get good grades due to their fear of their parents, others get good grades for their own good.

What parents have to understand is that these two parenting styles are two extremes of each other. The best way to create the best student and person is to not only take the middle ground of these parenting styles, but to also conform it to your specific child.

There are children who have strict parents that act out. But there are also children who with little parenting, take responsibility and become excellent students and citizens.

In the end it all depends on how parents communicate and understand their kids.

By YASMIN ALI, Reporter

Teachers Should Be Paid for Tutoring It is definitely no secret that teachers, especially in Florida, are under paid for their line of work. They get up early in the morning, prepare for class and spend six to eight hours on campus doing whatever is necessary for the job. Sometimes the extra hours at school include tutoring students in need. The teachers that spend this extra time and effort should receive more money.

The 2009-2010 average year-round salary for a Florida teacher was $46,696. Considering that teaching requires a college degree, a long workday, and many other qualifications, this figure is not nearly high enough; this is only the tip of the iceberg.

Not to mention, school board officials are paid more than photos by Akeem Edwards

Tiger Moms vs. Passive Parents

teachers.

Duval County public schools are already dealing with budget cut problems and the disputed potential loss of free participation in school sports. This may be one of reason why teachers are not paid for tutoring. It is clear to see that a lack of money is one of the primary issues.

Many teachers tutor after school on a regular basis and are seldom paid by the parents of the pupils receiving the extra help. However, this is incredibly rare because it is in fact against Duval County Public School policy. Teachers deserve higher paychecks for the effort and time they put into a child’s learning process.

One quality in teachers often overlooked is patience. Clearly, the profession of teaching requires a substantial amount of patience. One must take into consideration that teachers often have to teach a subject multiple times before the students in the classroom understand the material. In many cases, teachers understand the material so well that it is almost hard for them to comprehend that the student fails to understand it. With tutoring, the needed amount of patience and energy is increased and as a result, the teacher’s income should increase as well.

Peer tutoring groups such as Mu Alpha Theta and other study clubs serve the purpose of relieving some of the workload that teachers have to deal with. Plus, the students in need normally learn about the subject with which they are struggling. Tutoring groups are a major help considering that teachers already have many papers to grade and limited time to complete other tasks.

If teachers are not paid in monetary units for their hard work after school, they should at least be paid with extra benefits. Some would argue that money is much better than any benefit; however, benefits and incentives are certainly better than nothing.

It goes without saying that tutoring definitely increases pass rates in a school. Thus, tutoring requires a good deal of effort and hard work on a teacher’s part and they should therefore be rewarded.

By MASON MILLER reporter

Energy Drinks It’s the third quarter, which means exam week is coming soon too. AP and IB exams as well as the end of quarter exams bring stress and late night cramming sessions.

Stanton students always feel the stress of school work and many have experienced nights without sleep in order to finish homework assignments or to study for a big test. In order to get through the following day, many rely on energy drinks.Yes, these popular drinks bring them comfort that they won’t crash in the middle of class but it also brings potentially dangerous side effects with it.

Monster, AMP, Full Throttle, Red Bull, and Rockstar are the most popular energy drinks on the shelves today. These drinks are full of caffeine, taurine, choline and carnitive, all known to give simulative results. If a student is responsible in taking these supplements, there is no bodily harm but with

By ALEXANDRA MORGANTE, Reporter

10

Devil’s Advocate | Opinions

students surviving off the ingredients to keep them awake and give them ‘energy,’ they should know what they are putting into their body and what it could cause.

Energy drinks can negatively affect anyone who consumes large amounts on a daily basis but people with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and diabetes are largely at risk. The common side effects include high blood pressure, nausea, dizziness, breast shrinkage, vomiting, jitters, irritability and usually have a laxative effect on the user. The more serious side effects include heart palpitations, cardiac arrest, indigestion, gastric irritation and occasionally death. The consumers often experience insomnia which leads to more consumption because of their lack of sleep, therefore these users often get addicted to the caffeine. The average amount of caffeine per eight ounce serving of an energy drink is 70-80 milligrams, which is three times the concentration of cola drinks. Caffeine acts as a mild diuretic which means it causes the kidneys to get rid of excess water therefore increasing the urine production usually leading to severe dehydration. Some students drink energy drinks to get pumped up before a big game, but

in reality the drinks are dehydrating the player more than hydrating them.

Hundreds of complaints have been made about energy drink products and over 80 deaths have been reported.

Steve Bechler, a 23-year-old pitcher with the Baltimore Orioles collapsed during a workout in 2003 and later died.

The cause of death was announced as a heatstroke which was a result of consuming an energy drink before the game.

Why would any person want to put themselves in that type of situation? Is it really worth finishing all your homework and not getting any sleep therefore relying on liquid energy that only brings a tough ‘crash’ later? Some say yes, but with time management this shouldn’t be a problem. With exams and important tests coming up, the stress level is higher than ever. Energy drinks might seem like a good idea now but you’ll have to go to school the next day feeling worse than you did before you consumed it. If you’re looking for energy, sip some hot tea and if you want hydration, stick with water.

Of course the true ways to increase energy include maintaining a healthy diet, engaging in regular physical activity and getting a good night’s sleep, but if you need some extra study time, go with healthier alternatives.

12 Tips for Underclassmen #1

Don’t procrastinate when it comes to the last month of school. The sooner your assignments are in, the less often you’ll have to show up.

#5

#2

Don’t wear your ID, ever.

Bring it, just don’t wear it.

#3

Your senior year isn’t to be taken lightly.

Have fun, but colleges still see everything you do.

#4

Don’t lug around a heavy backpack; using your locker is worth avoiding back pain.

#6 #7

Even when you don’t see seniors around, they’re still on campus. Don’t park in the senior lot!

Respect your teachers.You never know when your graduating or not is entirely in their hands.

Make sure all electronics are completely hidden. A single headphone could get you lunch duty.

Senior Predictions ...be a Hollister Model:

Mirza Duzel

...own a nightclub:

Arthur Markosov

12 Campus Affairs | Devil’s Advocate

#9

Don’t come to school when you don’t have to; you’ll regret it.

By JAZELLE HANDOUSH, Editor-in-Chief

# 10

Always, ALWAYS, wear your class color on pep rally days. Otherwise, you’ll get hurt

# 11

Always participate and aid school media outlets.You never know when you’ll get your 5 minutes of fame

# 12

...be a Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader:

These are the 2011 Stanton Seniors Most Likely to...

By MISSY MAJOR, A&E Editor

#8

Don’t shove against upper classmen in the halls. Even if they’re shorter than you, it can be guaranteed that they have tall friends.

Don’t run into the senior courtyard, or you’ll end up in the bushes

U

Taylor Dunnigan

?

...have their own comic strip:

Rio Lavigne

...travel around the world with his band:

...not know what he wants to do with his life:

Daniel VanAlystne

Xyon Hurst

Senior Moment

By ALYSSA STUBBS, Contributing Writer

photo by Akeem Edwards

I would have been the perfect guest on Freshmen Say the Darndest Things. My callow remarks (“White’s not even a color”) make me cringe years later (in fact, white light contains all colors!). I once felt that the only thing blander than our class color was our graduation year. There is a ring to “Class of ’89” or “Class of ’08,” but absolutely no zip to “Class of ’11.” Since 2000, pharmacies have peddled cheap glasses featuring graduation year, the double zeroes serving as lenses. Needless to say, no such specs can be made from “2011.” A monocle, maybe…

Still, cool things are involved in the zestless numerals 2011 and 11 after all. I’ve narrowed them down to a cutesy “Top Eleven” list.

11) Stanton’s address is 1149 W 13th Street.

10) “Stanton prep” and “College prep” both contain eleven letters.

9) Tennis superstar Venus Williams’s line of athletic wear is called EleVen. The name comes from eleven’s being one better than the top ten and from an address in Venus’s childhood.

8) The numeral 11 resembles double l’s, which not only appear in plenty of Spanish words but in such sweet English words as vanilla and illimitable. Totally cooll.

7) Eleven is a prime number. Mathematically this means its only factors are itself and one. Another definition of prime is “first in importance” or “best.” One can easily imagine the commentary of the senior class on this.

6) The multiples of 11 up to 99 are very easy to remember.

5) “Elevenes” refers to a light midmorning refreshment taken in Britain.

4) Simply add an inverted arch under an 11 to create a smiley face. As a bonus, 11 resembles two exclamation points!!

3) 2 +/- 0 = 1+1 and 2 x 0 = 1 – 1 and 20 = 1 x 1 2) The number 11 looks the same backwards, reflected, and upside down as it does right side up. This makes 11 both a strobogrammatic prime and a dihedral prime.

1) 2011 is the year that thousands of American teens, myself included, leave high school for college and the wide, wild real world. It’s undoubtedly a special time, and so the year must be cherished. Even if it does not lend itself to unique glasses frames.

Memories

By LIZ SABATINO, reporter “The day I got a 92 on my Chemistry test.

Booyah!”

-Christian Bagrow (From senior year)

“We put Mrs. Bell’s hall pass in the ceiling the first week of school. When we looked for it like a month later it was gone.”

-Jared Gill (From freshman year) “Beating Paxon twice in my senior year is something I’ll always remember.”

-Xzavier Griffin (From Senior year) “My most memorable time at Stanton was homecoming of this year. I was surrounded by my favorite people at our last dance.”

“That day when I rapped about Nixon in Mr. McKay’s class. Do you want an example? My name is Richard Nixon/everyone hated me/‘cause nothing sucked more/than my foreign policy.”

-Amal Kamal (From senior year)

“Beating Paxon to become district champions. I scored one of the winning runs!”

-Samantha Norman (From junior year)

“When Jess Cauley and I went behind the scenes at Universal for film class.”

-Maya Francis (From senior year)

-Shelby Nelson (From senior year) “Mrs. Donoher caught Priscilla Brubeck and I skipping, and then Priscilla lied about it and got in more trouble.”

-Dan VanSickle (From senior year)

Campus Affairs | Devil’s Advocate

13

There’s A Purpose For Everything

Joining the Melting Pot

Every morning my family meets in the foyer of our house at about six o’clock to pray. One day my mom requested my step dad to pray for two of her co-workers who ended up in the hospital this week, one in a coma and the other having heart problems. While I was listening to my step-dad pray on their behalf, I heard him say, “Father, please be with these women, for we know that everything that happens has a purpose.”

There was so much truth in what my step dad said and I never really thought about it until now.

Ever since I can remember I’ve always heard “everything happens for a reason.” Well, yes that is true, but it brings no meaning to life since we all know that every cause has an effect, the cause being the reason for the effect, but just because things have a reason for happening doesn’t mean it has a purpose. Purpose can be defined in many ways, but in this case I believe it’s intended to mean resolution.

Metaphysically speaking, I believe people determine their own destiny. There are things that happen to people, due to no fault of their own, that are inevitable, but it’s not necessarily the result that’s most important, but how you handle the unexpected.

Unexpected events play an important role in people’s lives because they cause set backs to their plans, but that’s all it is, a setback. There’s nothing out there that can deter you from pursuing your goals. Obstacles are bound to come your way, hardships are inevitable, and the ones that are encountered have a purpose in your life if given one. They can serve as life lessons that help one to grow better as a person. It’s all about how the lesson learned is applied.

I view “set backs” as pace setters. It slows everything down, and gives me a chance to put everything into perspective. It’s a chance to take it all in, and then plan my next move.

They are the things that help me grow by learning from my mistakes.

The directions we go in are self driven, whether we take the wheel or put our lives in cruise control. The problem with living with life in cruise control is that the driver has no say in what happens to them.You basically just go with the flow and except everything for what it is, and it’s not because it can’t be changed, it’s because you won’t do anything about it.

When I arrived in Jacksonville, Fla. in August of 2007, I had no idea what to expect. It was in July of that same year that I came to the United States for the first time. I was born in the Philippines and lived there for six years until I moved to Japan, where I lived the next seven years of my life. I heard many things about the United States—the home of the infamous Wal-Mart, its obsession with fast food—but even after all of that, I was not prepared. Making straight A’s throughout elementary and middle school was a simple task. I had never heard of Stanton College Preparatory when I came here, until about two weeks before my freshman year of high school began.

My mom heard about this school through research. My family and I came to the school, showed administration my report card, and got accepted. Right then, I went to guidance and picked out my classes, and I was given a list of books to read before the first day of school. I was overwhelmed—I had never picked out my own classes or had summer homework. Knowing that I was new and would not have any friends was a daunting thought and an even worse experience.

In Japan, the middle and high schools, combined were a total of 800 students. Stanton had over 1000 students. I sat alone at lunch; I felt like a complete outsider. The workload was huge: notecards, reading, and quizzes—the list was endless. Freshman year was a blur of work, adapting to high school, and finding my niche.

Over the years I’ve spent at Stanton, I have figured out that five minutes is enough time to walk to class, so instead of carrying all of my books like I did freshman year, I learned how to use my locker. I have figured out it’s not lame to spend your lunch time in the library—in fact, it’s smart. I have perfected the art of procrastination. Pep rally days are days we can go all out and represent our class peacefully (or not so peacefully). There are only a few things I have learned here, but they are all memorable nonetheless.

Only now do I realize how lucky I am for attending Stanton. I cannot imagine the person I would be today if I had gone to another school. Although we are typically stereotyped as the “smart” school, we are much more than that. We are culturally rich and diverse and we interact with everyone. We are hard workers and are rewarded for it. The experiences I have had both socially and academically have prepared me for college and the future beyond it, and for that, I am proud to say that I am a 2011 graduate from Stanton College Prep.

ANA-ALESIA HAGINS, Opinions Editor

My Very Own John Hughes Movie When I was younger, high school was just a far away place where Ferris Bueller skipped school on a beautiful day to roam the city, detention involved meaningful conversations and dancing to cheesy music with people of a different clique, and where, as the outcast with an obsession with pink, you are secretly sought after by the popular guy.

However, after coming to Stanton, it was painfully apparent that the next four years were not going to be like a John Hughes movie, although I did learn that with an open mind I could create my own cheesy teen movie with an awesome soundtrack.

During my time at Stanton, I have learned one crucial piece of information: allow yourself to be open to new opportunities and people. Stanton is a very diverse school, yet many students come here with a set frame of mind of who they will be and what activities they will participate in. I was that person. That was until I walked into Mr. Knight’s Journalism I class. It was then that my career choice changed. Prior to my attending Stanton, I would have never even looked into a different career choice.

The large array of clubs at Stanton appeals to those looking into connecting with students who have the same interests and expanding their knowledge of the topic of choice. Never in my life would I have gotten onto a unicycle if it had not been for the Unicycle Club, for which I am now the proud president. Now that I have, it is another skill that I can add to my resume. With all the clubs offered, students have outlets to express their interests and attract others, who they may not interact with otherwise.

Just like in The Breakfast Club (1985), people come together in all sorts of ways to form unlikely bonds; whether it is from a sport, club, or having detention together. The friends you had in middle school may not be the friends you have senior year. While that may spark some tears of disappointment, I can say that the people I have allowed into my life have helped influence me into the person I am today.

As of now, I am happy with the way my life is going, but I will always remember not to close myself off from opportunities that may not follow the path I think life may take me.

BETSY DAILO, Script Editor

14 Devil’s Advocate | Opinions

NICOLE DELOS-REYES. Reporter

Halos We crown all the seniors graduating from Stanton in 2011, but we double-crown the seniors that have made it through Stanton all four years of their high school careers.

Pitchforks We give a pitchfork to the line at Grad Bash. We understand that there are seniors from all over Florida, but c’mon, there really needs to be a different process for checking people’s belongings, seriously.

We crown our class (and give a pitchfork to later classes) for being the last class to have all the sports, and for having to pay over $100 next year for Grad Bash. We feel sorry for you guys.

We give a pitchfork to the students that still haven’t decided what college they’re going to next year.You need to get it together because the national enrollment date for deposits ($200) was May 1.

We crown Mrs. O’Connor for all her hard work and effort put forth towards the senior activities. We thank you.

We give a pitchfork to the mistakes made by the county on the Senior E.O.C exams. How do you give a comprehensive multiple choice section with no passage to read? Who revises these tests?

We crown the seniors who received scholarships to college, whether they are athletic or academic. Good job and keep up the good work!

We give a pitchfork to the person behind the senior class prank. LAME! Who decides these things? Who said that was acceptable? Smh.

Simmie Tocolegg Plheeze 2342 Unwanted Street Failureville, FL 98851

w C r o s s r d

Dear Simme,

by MORGAN DONNELLY, Managing Editor

University of Acceptance

Someone always has to lose.

0666 Udenied Drive ® Loserville, Florida 34500-9445 (555) YOU-LOSE ® Fax (555) LYF-SUXS ® http://www.dream-on.edu

Y. Duyu Tri Dean

We at the University of Acceptance are sorry to inform you that you have not been chosen as one of the many students accepted. Furthermore, we apologize that out of the 40,000 students who applied you were only one not admitted. We have noticed on your application that you are currently enrolled at Stanton College Preparatory School. That is a great accomplishment and we congratulate you on your many endeavors there; however, you do not meet our standards by a long shot. Four years of attending Stanton is a great achievement but due to the nation’s economic recession we are trying to choose people that haven’t wasted four years taking A.P.’s, honor’s courses, academic electives and actually enjoyed their senior year.

We are not sure where you will continue to further your education but we know it will not be here. Regardless, we wish you the best of luck. Hopefully you’ll go on to become something unique; an individual who knows when to stop looking in books for answers and try going to answers.com. We hope this does not discourage you as it did many others, which is why we are not leaving a contact number. Hopefully you will move pass this failure to go on to bigger and better things; even though we are considered the number one school in the nation and are established on more land than any other college.

Again, we are very sorry for how you feel as you come to the end of this letter; however, we are not sorry for making you feel this way. Honesty and acceptance are two main qualities we uphold at UA, but you would not know anything about that would you?

1

ACROSS 1. The class of 2008 put this in the courtyard for their senior prank 2. The Mr. Ugly winner of 2008, Lance Springfield, was also known as this 3. This drama club member hosted Tuesday Trivia on Live on 5 during the 2007-2008 school year 4. The class of 2010’s pep rally theme our freshman year

5. This band with members from Stanton is well on its way to stardom with hits such as “And The Oscar Goes To” DOWN 1. Class theme our sophomore year 2. This person performed an original rap entitled “I’m So Smart” at the 2007 Fall Fest

1 2

2

3

4

Sincerely,

Yuri Jeccted Yuri Jeccted, Dean of Admissions University of Acceptance 0666 Udenied Drive Loserville, Florida 34500 Office of Admission: (555) YOU-LOSE

THE Playlist ² 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21

Name

Good Day What Kinda Gone I Just Got This Symphony...

Lean Wit It, Rock Wit It Conquest It Wasn’t Me A Little Less Sixteen Candl...

Stronger Shawty If Everyone Cared Hey There Delilah Bartender Shut Up And Let Me Go Time To Pretend

Dude

Crank Dat Yank Party Like A Rock Star Int’l Players Anthem Superstar Jamie All Over The Sweet Escape

Time

3:26 3:01 4:09 3:49 2:48 3:47 2:49 5:11 4:17 3:38 3:52 3:58 2:51 4:21 4:15 4:42 4:13 4:19 4:48 3:36 4:06

5

#4 / When We Were A Freshman Playlist Artist

Tally Hall Chris Cagle The Fall Of Troy Dem Franchize Boyz The White Stripes Shaggy Fall Out Boy Kanye West Plies

Nickelback

Plain White T’s T-Pain

The Ting Tings

MGMT

Beenie Man

Camp22 Shop Boyz UGK Lupe Fiasco Mayday Parade Gwen Stefani

Album

Genre

Marvin’s Marvelous Mech... Alternative Rock My Life’s Been A Country... Country Doppelganger Alternative Rock Hip-Hop On Top Of Our Game Icky Thump Alternative Rock Pop Hot Shot From Under The Cork Tree Alternative Rock Graduation Hip-Hop The Real Testament Hip-Hop Rock All The Right Reasons Alternative Rock All That We Needed Epiphany Hip-Hop

Senior Name

Billy Vaughn Jared Gill Paul Cancel Garrett Ruckel Priscilla Brubeck Ethan Brady Betsy Dailo Bryeon Jones Missy Major Akeem Edwards Jazelle Handoush Ana-Alesia Hagins We Started Nothing Alternative Rock Morgan Donnelly Rock Nikki Delos-Reyes Oracular Spectacular Reggae Liz Sabatino Back to Basics Crank Dat Yank Rap Evelyn Cooley Party Like A Rockstar Rap David Berlin UGK (Underground Kingz) Hip-Hop Xzaiver Griffin Lupe Fiasco’s The Cool Hip-Hop Bruce Bradley A Lesson In Romantics Alternative Rock Stephanie Downs Up Sweet Escape The Hanna Thwing Pop

Senior Issue | Devil’s Advocate 15

You know when you ask someone what one thing they would take if they were stranded on a deserted island to break the ice? Clearly the senior class opted to choose these two for their entertaining qualities rather than taking the “fully equipped boat with crew” route.

[Joseph Bolling & Amanda So]

Senior

MOST LIKEL Y TO BE IN THE CIRCU S

LAND S I D E T R E S DE N COMPANIO We could try to think of something clever to say about how being on a reality T.V. show requires a dynamic personality and a love of adventure, but we all know what it really means: These kids love to party.

[Luke Han & Brooke Robinson]

REALIT Y TV STAR

HOW ARE THEY EVEN DOING THAT??

[Akeem Edwards & Shannon Smith]

ND DAZED A ED CONFUS You could try and explain this superlative to these two, but chances are they just won’t get it.

[Jamie Price & Austin Udongwo] At Stanton, everybody is a nerd in one way or another, but these two take the cake!

[Vignesh Vudatha & Swati Sureka]

BIGGEST

NERD

Call it senioritis, but I don’t think either of them have turned an assignment in on time since sophomore year. They’re the ones who have to park in the back of the mudlot because they come so late to school.

[Sajan Patel & Jasmine Thacker]

16 Senior Issue | Devil’s Advocate

KER BIGGEST SLAC

T

’S PE TEACHER It’s always easy to spot the teacher’s pet when you walk into a classroom. Between the endless compliments and false enthusiasm, it’s a mystery how they even find the time to clean their teachers’ blackboards.

[Will Baxley & Sophia Cain]

LATE TO COLLEG E These two are infamous for being late to everything, or to just not show up at all. In fact, half of the senior class have probably never seen them because they’re never here.

[Hailee Joiner & David Kuong]

Superlatives

TEACHER ’S WORST NIGHTMA RE Between Sarah’s incessant talking and BIlly’s refusal to do homework, it’s a mystery that Stanton teachers aren’t pulling their hair out.

[Sarah Schaet & Billy Vaughn]

ELY K I L T S MO RY TO MAR Y ONE INTO M

Some way or another these two are able to use their charm and wit in order to get out of any sticky situation, or maybe they just have us all fooled.

[Ash Tilak & Zach Weeks]

For some, success is defined as having a secure and well-paying job that gives a sense of accomplishment.

For these two, its all about a luxurious and cushy lifestyle, paid in full by someone else of course.

[Eboni Nelson & Alex Farabee]

AY GETS AW ING ERYTH V E H T I W These are the two that bring a knife and fork to eat the buffet they have arranged on their desk. They also never turn in a quiz that isn’t soiled in food stains.

[David Emami & Obioma Ezinwa]

ALWAY S EATING IN CLA SS ADOPT FROM 3rd WORLD COUNTRY

UNSUNG HERO These two are always doing good for others without the recognition they deserve. They’re always polite and smiling and expect nothing in return, so give them a pat on the back the next time you see them.

[Alex Minor & Anthony Nguyen]

FUTURE HER SCP TEAC These two will likely join the ranks of the several teachers who just loved Stanton so much they couldn’t stay away, such as Mr. Peterson, Ms. Simmons, and Mr. Sharpe.

[Alyssa Stubs & Sam Leach]

Sure you can donate $12 to a charity foundation to send a poor child from Tanzania to college. Or you can be like these two and devote your life to caring for the little bundle of joy.

[Bozhena Ryshchak & Ben Hamilton]

BIGGEST FL Maybe they’re just being friendly, but you better watch out for these two if you see them chatting up your significant other.

[Steve Straley & Brianna Attlesey]

IRT

Devil’s Advocate | Senior Issue

17

Dear Rising Seniors,

The next year of your life will guaranteed be one of the most stressful of your lives. Even though it does not seem like it, college is fast approaching, looming over each decision you make.

You think the past years were stressful, but this year is packed with nonstop decision making and those choices may affect your life in unsuspected ways.

No matter what, do not forget your support system. If there is one thing you learn from this letter, it is to not abandon your friends and family. During this critical time in your life, it will become apparent who your true friends are. Cherish them, because who knows when a mental breakdown will strike and you need a friend to rant to.

Remember: your grades still matter after the first semester.

Just because you received an acceptance letter from your number one college does not mean that they will refrain from rejecting you if your GPA goes down. There is still plenty of studying to do, especially for those AP tests in May. Besides, one less year paying for college is completely worth the effort of preparing for the tests.

On a lighter note, senior year holds lots of opportunities for fun. Throughout the year, there are plenty of senior activities planned in order to keep you motivated. If you are in need of a reason to persevere, look towards the end of the year when seniors are able to utilize their rights. It will all be worth it.

Sincerely, BETSY DAILO, Script Editor

I’ve Always Wanted to Tell You...

By ANA HAGINS, Opinions Editor

Have you ever had one of those times when you did something or knew something that you did not want a particular someone to know at the time, but you have always wanted to tell them? Well it is senior year and it is time to let the truth be known to all! You would be surprised at what they have been keeping from you.

“Mr. Sharpe, you are EXTREMELY dreamy.” – Senior Women “To all of the people I care about, I just want to tell you all how much I really care about you.” – Khadijah Watson “Mirza, you are SEXY!” – Obioma Enzinwa “Ana, you are my favorite black person.” – Kylie Hyde “Mr. Knight, all those times in 9th grade when I was volunteering, I was only trying to get on your good side.” (Wink! Wink!) – Maya Francis “Trey, you have a nice body.” – Keanna Belle Ana, I love you.” – Gerald Jones “Hey Katie, it was me that TP’d your house.” – Hailee Joiner “Mrs. Betancourt, you are an over excited woman…but I like it.” (creepy voice) – Nadia Ruiz “Tamla, you need to behave when you go to Las Vegas.” – Daniel Snyder “Linda, we will always have waffles and pancakes regardless of the time of day.”

– Alyssa Inciong “Dear Molly, I don’t want your man.” – Taylor Dunnigan “Xzaiver, no homo. Dear Rickey, I stole your chips one time and I was going to offer you some but they were so good.” – Calvin Jones “Linda, I don’t love you.” – Duyen Tran “Jheeho, 5 1 7.” – Crystal Pulak

Do’s and Don’ts of Graduation

By BETSY DAILO, Script Editor

When that final day approaches, there are certain rules that need to be adhered to in order to have a smooth and successful graduation. To make Mrs. O’Connor’s day easier, one should remember a few certain do’s and don’ts of graduation.

One of the most important things is do come on time.

Tardiness will result in halting the graduation process and possibly not walking to receive your diploma. Do not come inappropriately dressed. It is easier to follow dress code rules, rather than having to scour the audience searching for a white button up shirt. Do respect other students and remind your families to wait to cheer after everyone else has received their diploma. The person called right after you may not be able to hear their name.

Following these rules will ensure a smooth and successful graduation, the one last thing you must do for the school before you are free from Stanton forever.

18 Devil’s Advocate | Senior Issue 19

“Dwight, you’ve always been my favorite ♥.” – Bryeon Jones “Bruce, I don’t care what Summer says, you will have my heart.”

– Jasper White “I wanted Stanton to know that I am an international art thief and semi-professional poker player by night.” – David Emami “Hey Mirza, I’ve always thought you had a pretty chin.” – Steve Straley “Mrs. Arteaga, I may or may not have broken your overhead sophomore year.” – Jared Gill “Kristian and Joseph, I’m sorry to tell you that I’ve been lying to you for so long. I’m not a werewolf and my cape isn’t even red, its cerulean blue and I sold it back to the grandmother in the movie.” – Akeem Edwards “Duyen, I knew you loved me the first time we met.” – Linda Huynh “Alyssa, Jasper says, “how don’t you like mac n’ cheese.” – Adam Ross “Lincoln, I stole your history book in 9th grade.” – Tamara Barber “Mrs. Heggood, I’m about to steal your entire wardrobe…very soon.”

– Missy Major

By KATIE RAYMOND, Features Editor

To my dearest peers of the class of 2011. After all your time thinking you’d

These events are what have shaped you into the person you are

never escape from Stanton College Prep, today is the day that you can finally take a

today. So now in a few moments when you walk across this stage,

sigh of relief. Looking back on everything that you did not do in your four years of

look out into the audience and remind yourself that you are

attendance, you must ask yourself; where am I going? You’ve spent _____of hours

number _______ in your class. And out of the 336 and a half

studying ___________ in your room only to receive an average of ______on

students you have truly left a mark on Stanton College Prep.

all of your tests.You are probably looking around thinking that everyone around

You will always be remembered as the kid who asked if the

Amount of Hours

Percent Lower Than 20

School Subject

you is going to the most ______________ college while you are stuck here Adjective

+ 330, < 335

____________ was due knowing you were the only one who had

Difficult Assignment

going to ______________.You all should be _________ for yourselves.

finished.You will be revered as the kid that fell out of the

As ________________ once said, “It’s okay if you don’t go anywhere.Your

bleachers at the Stanton versus Paxon football game.You yourself

mom’s couch is always open.” I think that applies specifically to the graduates of

are a star of your own high school movie. Good luck fellow

___________________.

graduates of 2011, may you go forth and finally leave this school.

Emotion

Trade School

Famous Dead Person

College

We are gathered here to celebrate all of our

fondest memories of high school. Whether it was the school bully who stole your lunch money on the first day or the first time you had ____________ surprise.

Meat

photo from the Internet

Graduation Mad Lib

Good Luck Class of 2011

What I’ll Miss The Most About Stanton

By MORSAL OSMANI, reporter

From the first day of freshman year the countdown for most students begins for the last day of senior year. The final days of school have finally arrived for the class of 2011, but now looking back they realize leaving Stanton is harder than they thought. Due to the countless friendships they made, the bonds they created with their favorite teachers, and the memories that will surely last a lifetime.

“I’m going to miss Ms. Tamla Simmons and Mr. McKnight because they were the most real teachers that I’ve ever had and even though they acted like they didn’t care, they did.”

- Amber Nobles

“I’m going to miss my bros.”

-Jared Gill

“I’m going to miss Mrs. Heggood but not her class.”

-Taylor Dunnigan

“I’m going to miss the school spirit when we played Paxon.”

-Xavier Griffin

“I’m going to miss sleeping through lectures.”

-Evelyn Cooley

“I’m going to miss football, especially the Stanton-Paxon games.”

-Peris Jones

“I’ll miss the people and how welcoming they were junior year when I first came to Stanton.”

-Lyndsey Morrell “I’m going to miss the intense basketball games in the gym.”

-Bruce Bradley

“I’m going to miss Mr. Lewis standing by the door in bulldog formation.”

-Laura Fiacco

“I’ll miss the people and some of the teachers.”

-Daniel Snyder “I’m going to miss Clarrisa Dalloway, she really knew how to throw a party,” -Jisoo Kim

“I’m going to miss IB.” -Disha Sharma “I’m going to miss Mr. Mowbray’s 1B APUSH class.”

-Amber Evans “I’m going to miss Mama Sacks and the Black Box, which is secretly my penthouse (3929).”

-Nathan Dennis (Spooky Pirate) “I’m going to miss Mrs. Sacks and the whole drama department.”

-Joy Jones “I’m going to miss the expectations that everyone has of us.”

-Aditya Kayhade

“I’m going to miss Paul Yi and Tony Dixon, I would also say Lincoln Devine, but we’re going to be roommates next year.”

-Brandon Pettigrew “I’m going to miss going to Caltech with my physic’s class.”

-Joseph Bolling “I’m going in to miss the diversity here.”

-Calvin Jones “I’m going to miss playing basketball, especially when we played Paxon and got double overtime with the score 102-97.”

-Trey Winbush

“I’m going to miss the people here.”

-Keanna Bell “I’ll miss taking Spanish every day second period.”

-Devarshi Desai “I’m going to miss the 12th Man.” -Daniel Fischer “I’m going to miss my friends the most.”

-Adam Ross “The people, because everyone here has such a unique, as opposed to other high schools, and the atmosphere that they create is one of a kind.”

-Alex Minor

Senior Issue | Devil’s Advocate 19

Senior Wills Compiled by Bryeon Jones

To Jerron Wheeler, I leave the Senior Class President parking spot.

To Tisha Antique, I leave you the miracle of drama-free Multi show. I also leave you all my knowledge about life and all that jazz.

Live long and prosper. Haha.

To Ryan Brown, I leave the ashes of King Chuck.

May he rest in peace.

And lastly, I leave my looks and personality to Brenda Fiacco.

You’re welcome.

Dear Mr. Mowbray, We leave you a box of tissues to dry your tears after we are gone.

- Laura Fiacco

- Monique Bautista

- Dawn Holland & Kelcey Day

To all the incoming freshmen, I know the idea of sleepless nights, mornings of cramming, towers of homework, months of procrastination, and enough essays to fill a library sounds a bit intimidating, but there’s always hope.

To all Stanton students, I leave my motivation.

May it inspire you to succeed in all aspects of life, achieving far beyond your expectations.

To my brother Andrew “Fatty” Berlin, I leave my swagger.

To Ms. Simmons, I leave a bag of carrots, a pair of slides, and Kashi bars.

- David Berlin

To Ms. Thomas, I leave the Michael Jackson Experience video game so that you and Ms. Simmons can play together.

- Amba Nobles To Ben Gross, I leave my soccer skills so he and the team can go back to states.

To freshmen, I leave my prayers.

You’ll need them.

- Lindsay Gillespie

- Dorian Maness To all the incoming freshmen, I leave all my used gum underneath my desks for you to feel.

- Alyssa Inciong - Linda Huynh

- Maya Francis

To Rachel Hart, I leave my parking spot.

- Shannon Smith

To Mr. Mowbray, I leave my Lexus.

To Jasper White, I leave a lifetime supply of altoids.

- Paul Yi To Rami Hiraezi, I leave my rap skills.

To future varsity ‘ basketball players, Carry on the legacy.

To Mazin, Good luck with Multi decorations next year.

- Bruce Bradley

- Julie Otero 20 Senior Issue | Devil’s Advocate

- Eboni Nelson

- Diane Lieu

- Ryan Neimes

To any Junior who wants them, I leave all my AP cram books.

To my teacher, I leave the ‘D’ I got 3rd Quarter.

- Tony Dixon

To whatever freshmen pays me the most, I leave the 5 million notecards I did over the years.

To underclassmen, Do well on your AP Language Arts and History Exams so you won’t have to pay as much tuition.

- Tyler Welliver

- Tyerra Poole

To Britany Cohen and Shamoni Kirkscy I leave confidence, support and encouragement.

To underclassmen, Don’t take AP Chemistry and AP Calculus at the same time!

- Lashell Lewis

- Evelyn Cooley

How Embarrassing!

By Greg Todaro, Campus Affairs Editor

“During track practice in freshman year, after running about 10 feet, I tripped and ate concrete while the entire football team watched” – Hanna Thwing

“Once, I walked into the wrong classroom (Mr. Hitchcock’s room) and immediately started a conversation with him as if I was in the right class” – Shreyas Shrihiuvasan

“I gave out the awards at Ms. Stanton and accidently forgot to give Alyssa Lloyd her first runner-up sash” – Sarah McIntyre

It’s happened to everyone before; a slip of the tongue, an awkward noise, or the simple miscalculation between steps, all which can lead to a mortifying experience. Nearly every silly mistake or mispronounced word can be the subject of mockery among friends, but rarely last forever. In this issue, we looked at the most embarrassing senior moments and judged them against our special “Humiliation Scale” to show you that even the best and the brightest have their

“I was walking up the stairs tripped, played it off like it didn’t happen and then I tripped again.”

– Jazelle Handoush

“During the first football game I told the band to march around the field again before going in to the stands.” – Kenny Love

“Being constantly mistaken as Laura.”

– Brenda Fiacco

“Sophomore year in cross country we were working out and I said “This last one seperates the boys from the men,” and my voice cracked.”

– David Emami

“On Senior Takeover Day I was Mrs. Gardner and I hit a girl with the book cart and she fell over. Then Liz Sabatino tried to help her and fell over as well.”

– Zunaira Quvaishi

“In 10th grade I had a math test in Mr. Copeland’s class, and I was really stressed so I accidently went to the boys bathroom.”

– Shelby Nelson

“When Ms. Blount prevented my step team from stepping after I already told everyone we were going to.”

– Rico Feliciano

Humiliation Scale Just Laugh It Off Give It A Day This Will Take A While Your New Reputation Don’t Come Back

“Only me throwing up, stepping in it, and walking around for the remainder of the day with it.”

– Christian Bagrow

First 11 Things To Do After Graduation

When I Grow Up I Want To Be...

By ETHAN BRADY, Sports Editor

By MISSY MAJOR, Arts & Entertainment Editor

1. Make a break for the exit after sitting in graduation for three hours.

2. Do donuts in the arena parking lot.

3. Count your graduation presents.

“Pedia

per Wh

ite

“Professional video game player” - Michael Shoffner

“Aquatic

Veterin ar

ian - Au

6. Blow your graduation money on food.

rielle Ea

7. Burn everything academic.

8. Wear your cap and gown everywhere for a week.

ball Play er” - Jas

“Mrs. Sacks without the hair” - Sarah Schaet

4. Catch up on four years of lost sleep.

5. Tell your friends everything you hate about them.

“Basket

atson dijah W

- Kha trician”

dy

riter” r/Songw

“Singe

ns

n Hoga

- Kristia

“Veterin rown arian” ndrew B Cedric Brazle “Unemployed” - Ethan Brady

er” - A Ms. Crid

“

9. Finally throw away your notebooks you’ve been hoarding since freshman year.

10. Tease every underclassman in sight for having to stay at Stanton another year.

11. Refer to yourself as a college student.

“Trophy Wife” - Morgan Donnelly

“Docto

r” - Jen

nifer Pa

rmar

in Jones

t” - Calv

au “Astron

Devil’s Advocate | Senior Issue

21

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For Appointments Call (904) 398-7205 or (866) 298-3297 Sponsored By Vikram Gopal, Stanton Class Of 1992

Have a great Summer!!

photos by Akeem Edwards

Five Students Who Impact Stanton

At a school like Stanton, practically every student is good at something. Whether it’s the student that has their artwork posted throughout Stanton’s hallways, the junior who is getting A’s in both of their college level sciences, or the football player that has set higher records than Stanton has ever seen. Although students here are certainly talented, there is a select group who use their skills to better Stanton as a whole. Based on their achievements throughout their years at Stanton, club participation, involvement in the community and teacher recommendations the Devil’s Advocate has chosen five seniors to make our 2010-2011 “Impact” list. These seniors not only changed Stanton during their time here, but will also have left an impact long after they have gone.

photos by Akeem Edwards

David Emami By ELLIOTT BEALE, reporter

24 Features | Devil’s Advocate

David Emami is one of the few people everyone at Stanton knows, whether they have a personal relationship with him, or just know who he is. He has started two businesses of his own, along with volunteering at Shands Jacksonville Medical Center and tutoring at school, he has been SGA president for two years and he is captain of both the track and cross country team, all while maintaining a GPA over 4.0. Emami has won numerous awards, such as the Scholar Athlete Award, and has received full scholarships to both Auburn University and Fordham University. With a bright future ahead of him, he will also leave a long lasting legacy here at Stanton.

Emami is known around campus for his exuberant personality and even mentions that he has “a contagious enthusiasm for life and does everything with gusto.” Many of his friends describe him as being smart, funny and pretty understanding.

“David has the most incredible personality I’ve ever seen. He is one of the funniest people at Stanton and can always bring a smile to your face,” says senior Garrett Ruckel. “He is a natural leader and

everyone that knows him, loves him.”

His outgoing and friendly personality, as well as his natural tendency to lead, has gotten him elected Student Government Association president both his junior and senior year, making him the first and only student to have held the position for two years. Mr. Franklin Bunton, AP United States History teacher, noticed Emami held certain characteristics that have allowed him to excel as a leader. “David is clearly popular and well-respected. I could see his leadership ability in the first two weeks,” said Mr. Bunton.

Being SGA president has allowed him to play a part in numerous activities around Stanton, such as planning and preparing for Homecoming Week and the Homecoming Dance.

Emami does not just plan the activities though, he also takes part in them and for this he is probably most well known. He blames his need to feel involved in school events on his “school spirit and love for pep rallies and Stanton sports.” He can be seen participating in every activity from Fall Fest to the Devilympics to pep rallies. He believes “you get

as much out of a school, job or opportunity as you put into it,” and because of this Emami says he has “poured himself into this school and will take away a priceless experience.”

He will take the experiences he has had at Stanton with him as he moves on to the next chapter in his life. After a tough decision between Auburn and Fordham, he ultimately chose to attend Fordham in the fall and is planning to major in accounting and finance. He was accepted into the Global Business Honors Program that only selects 20 students a year. Emami compared the program to the IB program here at Stanton, saying it is rigorous but would come with great benefits. The Honor’s Program will allow him to travel to places in Asia, Latin America and Europe, free of expenses and will open the door to priceless internships. Garrett Ruckel says that “Fordham is lucky to be getting such a total package. David will be one of the people I will miss the most.”

Emami will also miss his fellow classmates as he heads to Fordham in the fall, but he perhaps he will miss running track even more, since he will not be running for the university’s track or cross-country team, which comes as a surprise to most. He has been on the varsity track and cross-country teams at Stanton since freshman year, earning him eight varsity letters. Emami also received the Scholar Athlete Award, which is given to students who are ranked in the top ten percent of their class and have played at least two years of varsity sports by the end of their junior year. As Mrs. Ana Shepard, AP and IB European history teacher jokingly says, “David runs like a cheetah with his tail on fire.”

Emami will be missed among Stanton’s faculty and student body. He’s practically been making an impact on the school’s community since he walked in the door on the first day of his freshman year. He leaves behind his

brothers Patrick, a junior, and Chris, a freshman. They seem to be following in David’s footsteps, Patrick was elected the SGA president for the 2011-2012 school year and both he and Chris joining the track and cross-country teams. The Emami Legacy that David has created will be carried on by his brothers and Stanton students for many years to come.

unweighted 4.0 grade point average, which converts to a weighted 4.845. Attending Stanton and preparing for college is hard work, but it is even more difficult if one is in the International Baccalaureate program. One thing he has learned from being in the IB program is that “there’s not enough time to do everything,” Despite the large workload the program offered, Lozano is motivated and does his work, because “it reduces what you might eventually have to study, because in many cases you know a topic well enough that you can spend more time on other things.” In the times where he feels like giving up, Lozano puts things into perspective, “Worrying about a test is not the same as worrying about something like foreclosure.”

Not only are Lozano’s grades above par, his participation in various clubs and the office positions he holds in some of them shows his leadership skills and his ability to balance his academic life and extracurricular activities. Although he likes to think that he manages his time wisely, he believes it could be “better at times.”

Lozano is a member of the Multicultural Club, which showcases various cultures through the annual Multicultural Extravaganza. He has performed for Filipino Traditional and Chinese yo-yo, and decided to run for office because during his freshman year, “the guidance of upperclassmen made Multi special” and he “wanted to bring an element of that to others as an officer.” As a result, he held the secretary position in his junior year and was voted treasurer for this year.

Multi is not the only club where Lozano has held office positions, however. He was vice president for the National Latin Honor Society in his junior year and president for this year. In addition, he is currently the secretary for the Science National Honor Society, and public relations officer for the National Honors Society. Lozano is also a member of both the Math Honor Society and the school’s Brain Brawl team. The Honor Societies in which he takes part in requires academic successes, volunteer services, and various skills that prove ones place in the society. Lozano manages to balance both is academic life and extracurricular activities by working hard.

Outside of school, Lozano is a member and president of the St.Vincent’s Medical Explorers, where students learn about medical occupations at the hospital while performing service projects. He headed the Baby Needs Drive for the school in the beginning of his junior year, which collected supplies for a local organization called Emergency Pregnancy Services. His interest in volunteering for St.Vincent’s

Medical Center gave him “a glimpse of potential career paths.”

Lozano is also a member of the Joe Berg Society, a program that was created in 1957 but introduced to Jacksonville in 1960. It was formed in response to the launch of the Sputnik, the first artificial satellite to be put into Earth’s orbit. They meet at the Museum of Science and History to listen to guest speakers talk about science.

Lozano’s list of awards and recognitions seem endless, but to name a few, he is a member of the Brain Brawl team that placed first in 2009 and 2010, he was nominated “Most Likely to Succeed” by his fellow seniors, and he won homecoming prince in his junior year. With all the awards, recognitions, nominations, and office positions Lozano has held, he seems well-known among the Stanton community and could be labeled “popular,” but does not consider himself as such.

“I don’t consider myself a popular person. I feel that whenever I meet someone, I meet him/her for a reason.

The people I’ve met over the past four years are great individuals I’m honored to have known,” Lozano says.

As for the future, Lozano will either go into Molecular Biophysics and Biochemistry or a liberal arts tract that fulfills his pre-med requirements. He was inspired to study because he is “all about combining disciplines” and the majors he has chosen encompass the subjects that appeal to him. With Lozano’s future academic career at Yale, he will continue to have the same work ethic, determination, and appreciation for learning as he did at Stanton--and he will surely make time to have fun on the way.

David Emami

• •

•

•

•

Attending Fordham University One of twenty students accepcted into the Global Business Honors Program Student Government Association president both his junior and senior year, Maintained a GPA over 4.0 all four years

photos by Akeem Edwards

Marc Lozano By NIKKI DELOS REYES, reporter

At Stanton, students of different backgrounds, different religions, different political standpoints, and overall unique personalities roam the hallways with ease. Stanton is a microcosm of the United States, an academic “ melting pot” full of students with potential. Although each individual has something to contribute to the diversity of this school, there are a handful of students that stand out.

Marc Lozano is one of the few students that has made a name for himself through his excellent academic record, his participation and leadership in various clubs, his numerous awards, and his community service.

Obtaining straight A’s at Stanton is definitely a challenge.

Despite that fact, however, Lozano has attained an

MARC LOZANO • • • • • • • •

Attending Yale Member of the Multicultural Club Preformed in the Filipino Traditional and Chinese yo-yo groups President for the National Latin Honor Society Secretary for the Science National Honor Society Public relations officer for the National Honors Society Member of both the Math Honor Society Weighted 4.845 GPA

Devil’s Advocate | Features 25

Bryeon Jones By LIZ SABATINO, reporter

It is not often that so many voices unanimously cease, silent in awed praise of one of their peers. But when, Bryeon Jones has the floor, our ears and minds are open to the brilliance he promises every time he presents. Whether he is captivating audiences with raw intensity in his Club Unity performances or transforming words into the stealth, fluid motion of music, Bryeon Jones is sure to capture the attention and hearts of anyone who is lucky enough to cross his path.

A well rounded character is not simply the best of the best, but a combination of all the traits that make an individual so outstanding. A role model by reputation and a Stanton celebrity by definition, Bryeon Jones redraws the boundaries of being an overall good person. Jones volunteers his time not only to his choice clubs and activities, but also to his peers and local benefactions. Around Thanksgiving time each year, Jones volunteers with his church, New Bethlehem Missionary Baptist Church, at the Jacksonville City Rescue Mission, where he prepares and serves food to Jacksonville’s homeless population. He has also participated in the Shands Jacksonville Junior Youth Volunteer Program, where he spent his summer days entering data and assisting hospital employees.

With high hopes for his future, Jones plans to take the

first step into adulthood by making his home in the Swamp.

The University of Florida captured his attention first through athletics, namely the Florida Gators football team. Seeing the expansive campus up close and personal at a scholars program in June of 2010 further deepened Jones’ admiration for UF, especially when an overnight dorm stay showed him the social side of the Swamp life. At Florida, Jones will pursue a major in engineering, from which he hopes to work toward specializing in either mechanical or biomedical engineering.

While the exact path he follows may be unclear to him now, Jones hopes to someday work in a healthcare facility and “develop medical devices and equipment that preserve health.”

With aspirations as big as his voice, Jones will leave Stanton as a legend, forever remembered for his words, thoughts, and accomplishments under its roof. While he will move on to bigger and better things, it is safe to say that Jones will remember Stanton, a place that was his home for four years and that influenced him deeply in his perspective and voice.

“I cherish all of the individual memories form my years at Stanton and consider each one a blessing,” said Jones. Some of his most treasured memories entail his involvement in Club Unity, where being a member of the Men’s step team has instilled in him a sense of expression as well as an air of recognition. Expression of self has been a journey for Jones, who stepped through Stanton’s door so many years ago as a “shy and reserved kid.” Regarding how outspoken and vocal Jones has become, fellow senior and Club Unity member Rico Feliciano said “If you’d known Bryeon a couple years ago, you’d never expect this from him. He was so quiet...and then he joined step team.” In time, he found that expression could be fun, and he fondly recollects spontaneous rap cyphers with friends and fellow seniors Rico Dodson and Bruce Bradley as well as working with senior John Jenkin and members of Project 1, a group of Stanton students whose musical talents have been put to use through song recording. From being part of the 2009 Prom Committee to participating in the Multicultural club and performances, Jones has filled his time with the activities and organizations that have shaped his character. His participation in extra curricular activities such as Black History Club has encouraged Jones to “become a more sociable and outgoing individual,” a trait that now sets him apart as one of the most admired and memorable students of the 2011 class. But the trait that Jones is perhaps most known for is voice. The founding of

the Expressionists, a club that celebrates the freedom of voice and the artistry of words, “was a breath of fresh air” for Jones. While he is too busy to actually take part in the club, he respects the club’s intentions.

“They represent a movement, revitalizing the pristine art of the spoken word,” said Jones. Bryeon Jones’ power through vocalization has made him an artist among men, a celebrity among classmates. “He is by far the kindest individual I have ever met. Anything he has, he’s earned it,” Feliciano said. He is a mastermind with words, an artist with ink, a sculptor of rhymes. Jones never ceases to amaze both his teachers and peers with the creative genius of his writing.

The Club Unity nickname “Black Panther” is no longer just an epithet in white letters across his Unity jersey, but a representation of the power of voice that characterizes Jones in print and in legend. An animal of grace, silent admonition and raw power, the panther is not only an image of intensity but an image of articulate knowledge. Like the fearless jungle cat, Jones is quiet and composed in nature, but his presence and character are thunderous in quality. He is an example to his peers, a picture of courage and intellect that come together in an intricate weave that is reminiscent of the complexities and layers of the young man himself.

Jones’ moral fiber is threaded on the basis of his own inspirations, the most important being his mother. A loving motivator and life coach in nature, his mother is “truly a guru” in his life. “Her words of wisdom are godsends,” Jones says. Perhaps the most important lesson that his family has taught him is one of fairness. Based on principles of equality, Jones’ family instilled in him the knowledge and strength to “break down the barriers that separate by race, gender and class.” These life lessons have laid a path beneath Jones’ feet, a path that may be beaten and scuffed by stumbles and trials, but a path that will be reflected upon fondly as the transition from a boy with big dreams to a young man with big realities. It is impossible to say exactly what will become of Bryeon Jones, but the pride, encouragement, and admiration of his peers is sure to remain a part of him in whatever bright future he walks into.

Bryeon Jones • • • •

Attending University of Florida Majoring in engineering Member of the U Psi Phi Men’s step team Member of Black History Club

Robby Blanchard By Bryeon Jones, reporter It was just another B lunch. As usual, the senior courtyard was flooded with students. Within the sea of picnic tables, a wave of laughter suddenly rushed from a table of IB senior boys laughing and playing like a pod of dolphins.

At the center of the hilarity was none other than Robert Blanchard, affectionately known as “Robbie,” wearing a light blue Kool-Aid Man t-shirt reminiscent of the blithe, almost smug grin ever-present on his face. From the looks of the faces of Blanchard’s friends, they were captivated by the person who would be nominated as one of the top five personalities among the Stanton Senior Class of 2011.

The trait that distinguishes Blanchard from others is his comedic outlook on life. He’s always cracking jokes and making people laugh. Not quite a class clown, Blanchard is nonetheless one of the senior class’s premier “entertainers.”

His peaceable sense of humor has garnered the respect and admiration of quite a few of his peers.

“I like to make people laugh and I like to have a good time at school,” he boasts. Although Blanchard has a natural

26 Features | Devil’s Advocate

affinity for comedy, that’s not what he’s all about. Behind his comedic facade is an intelligent and dedicated young individual.

While some students participate in a number of afterschool clubs and activities, others have one to which they cling tenaciously -- one that defines them as a person. In Blanchard’s case, that one is none other than the band.

For Blanchard, the decision to join the Stanton College Prep Blue Devil Marching Band was a no-brainer; he had already known the band director, Mr. Marcus Young, prior to coming to Stanton.

“In fact, he was the one who first taught me how to play the trumpet back when I was in elementary school,” Blanchard explains, “After that, I enjoyed playing the trumpet so much, when I went to middle school at Darnell Cookman, I joined the music program there and continued to play it.

When I finally got to Stanton, I figured I should at least give the band a try.”

As a result, Blanchard stuck with Stanton’s band for the

Blanchard could not be more satisfied with his fidelity. His musicianship has afforded him the experiences of a lifetime.

According to Blanchard, “you build certain bonds and friendships within the band, and once you do that, you’ll feel the need to stay because you’re a part of something much bigger than yourself.”

Being a member of Stanton’s Marching Band for four consecutive years has no doubt been a splendid experience for Blanchard, but he admits that is proved difficult at times. Being a part of the band requires a lot of commitment, especially timewise. Unlike some students who have the luxury of heading straight home after dismissal at 2:40 p.m., band members are required to attend practices, which usually draw out until 6:00 p.m.

What’s more, the band meets all year long -- everyday during the football season, and every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday otherwise. Some practices are even held over summer break. Even though the practice schedule is extensive the demanding, Blanchard makes it clear that “it all

Sarah Davis

in fact a certified sailing instructor at a summer camp. “I really got into the sport of sailing around the age of eight when I attended the same summer sailing camp that I am currently employed at, and I have stuck with it ever since,” says Blanchard. Blanchard’s interest in sailing has lead him to compete in many organized sailboat racing events.

Blanchard plans to attend University of Central Florida and major in mechanical engineering, fond of multiple job opportunities associated with the field. “I will probably continue with the band, and for other activities I will just go wherever the wind takes me. I am a fan of spontaneity,” said Blanchard. Even after spending thousands of hours at Stanton, Blanchard is confident that not one moment defines him. “I just lived it all at 100 percent,” said Blanchard.

photos by Cady and Cady Studios

seems worth it when you have that halftime performance, or the crowd cheering during the pep rally.”

As an IB student, Blanchard is especially pressured by the time constraints imposed upon him by the band’s practice schedule. It’s usually around 7:00 p.m. before he arrives home from practice on weekdays, leaving him with a particularly narrow period with which to complete his homework and studies. The rigorous curriculum IB program has pushed him to develop time management skills and balance his workload with his practice.

“IB has helped me prepare for college because it has taught me how to work smart and not necessarily hard,” said Blanchard.

Although being an IB student makes his participation in school-related extracurricular activities more difficult, Blanchard takes part in community service activities whenever he can. “I try my best to go any activities that I really want to partake in regardless of how much work my teachers assign me,” says Blanchard. Outside of school work and band practice, Blanchard enjoys sailing and is

Robby Blanchard • •

Attending University of Central Florida Part of stantons marching band all four years of school

By ALEE MORGANTE, reporter

photos by Akeem Edwards

Stanton students are often incorrectly stereotyped as nerds with no lives that only focus on homework; but we all know the wide variety of students here that join together and become friends. Although Stanton students have a heavier workload compared to other high school students, some exceptional students find time to do even more than just barely make the grades. Sarah Davis is one of those students. As an active member and founder of Stanton’s Sanctuary on 8th Street Club and as a dedicated Christian, Davis is still able to maintain a GPA of 4.62 and continue to flourish as a well-rounded Stanton student.

In the fall, Davis plans to attend the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa, Ala. in order to further her hopes of graduating with a degree in elementary and special education. The recent storms in Tuscaloosa left over 40

people dead and still hundreds of people are missing, but since the American Red Cross Disaster Relief team is only accepting help from trained adults to help rebuild and reconstruct the towns, Davis is hoping to contribute by participating in food and water collections. Davis said she chose this college because of The University Fellows Experience which is a community of scholars dedicated to being change agents through leadership and service.

Former Stanton student Emily Rutzen describes Davis as an “amazing, intelligent leader who is always putting herself first.”

At Stanton, she shows her leadership and kindness through the founding of the Sanctuary on 8th Street club when she was a junior. This club volunteers their time at the actual Sanctuary on 8th Street in downtown Jacksonville which is an after-school and summer program for inner-city youth that provides an alternative to spending time on the streets. The Sanctuary was created in 1992 by the Springfield Presbyterian Church to offer a wide variety of enriching and creative programs and activities, designed to minister the whole child, helping them develop into healthy, productive adults. This program helps its children find their way to productive futures and enables them to break the cycle of poverty and hopelessness so many have known for most of their lives.

“Sarah is a mature, trust worthy and caring person,” said Dr. Elizabeth Renfroe, Davis’ English teacher. “Her character makes her a good student and enables her to make the most of her considerable natural gifts.”

In addition the Sanctuary on 8th Street club, Davis and some of her friends started a Bible study group with men and women who meet monthly in Hemming Plaza.

At Stanton, Sarah is co-president of FISH (a Bible club at Stanton) club, a member of the leadership council in the IGNITE club, a student representative of Parent Teacher Student Association (PTSA) and is an affiliate of Mu Alpha Theta Math Tutoring, National Honor Society (NHS) Peer Tutoring and National Spanish Honor Society.

Mrs. Norma Crespo-Lowery, the world languages department chair, considers herself “very lucky” to have had the privilege to teach Davis for two years. “She is a very intelligent young lady but what makes her special is that she is a very good person with a generous heart,” said Crespo-Lowery.

Outside of school, she is a Diocese of Saint Augustine (DOSA) camp buddy which is a ministry for persons with

disabilities to receive opportunities to know, to love, and to serve God, based on the value and dignity of human life.

Davis also serves as an Upward cheerleading and football coach, a program where men and women across the nation are teaching children skills for the sports arena and values for life.

Katie Jernigan met Davis through the University Fellows Experience. Jernigan describes Davis as a person with “a warm and inclusive” personality.

“A five-minute conversation with her will leave one inspired,” said Jernigan. “Her love for the Lord is evident in everything she does. I think the reason she has been so successful is because she has very strong passions and convictions that she gives her all to.”

Davis’ younger sister, Emily Davis, who is a freshman at Stanton, characterizes her older sister as “unselfish and always smiling.”

“She has had a very positive impact on my life in that she has challenged me in my academic achievement and has also been an example for me in my daily life,” said Emily Davis. “She is an encouragement to me and also the other people she comes in contact with each day.”

After Sarah Davis graduates from the University of Alabama, she hopes to become a special education teacher in Uganda and her larger goal in life is to start a school in a slum. Regardless, Davis will continue to impact the lives she comes in contact with.

“Wherever I end up, though, my primary goal will be (and currently is) to spread the news that Jesus has come to rescue rebellious sinners from behind enemy lines,” said Davis.

• •

Sarah Davis Attending University of Alabama

Member of The Sanctuary on 8th Street Club (co-president), FISH (co-president), IGNITE (leadership council), PTSA (student representative), MAO, NHS, NSHS

•

National Merit Scholar

•

4.62 GPA

•

College major: Elementary and special education

Devil’s Advocate | Features 27

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script

the

IssueFour

Well That Was Awkward

By Nicole Delos Reyes, reporter

Sean: I think I saw you at the store yesterday.

Brandon: At Publix?

Sean: Yeah! I called your name but I don’t think you heard me.

Brandon: Oh, yeah, I thought I heard someone.

Sean: You never told me your mom was pregnant, bro. She looks like she’s about to pop!

What’s she having like, twins or something?

Brandon: She isn’t pregnant, Sean.

Sean: …Oh. That must have been someone else at Publix then. This woman’s belly was about ready to pop out her white blouse— Brandon: My mom was wearing white yesterday.

Sean: I’m pretty sure it’s just a coincidence. Your mom’s pretty normal sized, right? I haven’t seen her in ages, anyways. I already forgot what she looks like— Brandon: Just shut up, dude.

photo by AKEEM EDWARDS

19

The final dinosaur featured this year is the Protoceratops, Greek for “First Horned Face.” This herbivore is relatively the size of the sheep and previously resided in Mongolia. However, in recent years one can be spotted on the popular kid’s show, Barney and Friends, as BJ, the seven year old dinosaur, who prefers to wear a red hat and red shoes to compliment his yellow skin.

to fr om

the

Inte rne t

By KIA’ COOPER, reporter

One of Stanton’s most prominent clubs is to receive the Club of the Year award in the Stanton Media Center on June 6 at 4:30 pm.

Stanton offers over 50 clubs and societies, everything from the Stanton Medical Society to the Robotics Club. Stanton’s Club Silence, established in 2003, is to receive the prestigious Club of the Year Award, for their renowned dedication, engaging discussions, and most importantly their legendary public-speaking skills.

When Club Silence was notified that they were going to be receiving the Club of the Year award they were so surprised. According to the club’s President Tara Bradley, Club Silence is both flattered and honored to receive this award.

“We [members] were so excited and felt so Shhhh... privileged that Stanton wanted us to receive this award,” said Bradley. “We will continue to make our club the best possible and stay dedicated to our goals.”

Club Silence meets every Tuesday and Thursday in the Stanton courtyard where they interact with each other through the momentum of silence. All members have faithfully centered the club and its guidelines around the ancient teachings of Greek philosopher of Silence, Nosounds. According to legends, during ancient times Nosounds would preach to his people through his varied facial expressions and hand motions. Today, Club Silence has added their own modern twist by creating a means of communicating using only expressions.

Although Club Silence hasn’t been around as long as other clubs at Stanton, they have made a name for themselves. When the club was first established in 2003 it only had five members, now it has almost 30. Known for their public-speaking skills, Club Silence was awarded the National Speaking Scholars award in 2011, an honor that left them speechless. Now that they are receiving the Club of the Year award they plan to keep up the tradition.

“We work really hard to make our club the best possible, I love everything about it,” said two-year member Lisa Lowndry.

Lowndry is one of many members in the club. As Club Silence’s number of members started to increase, so did their publicity around the school. The club has gone from being one of the least active clubs around Stanton to one of the most renowned, and their work ethic really shows.

“Don’t get me wrong, sitting and looking at each other like idiots does have its downfalls,” said Richie Simmons. “Asking the kid next to you to pass the crackers without saying anything was more difficult than usual, but I still love this club!”

Club Silence is humble to receive this award, and hopes that next year they will be honored again. Winning this award will really give them something to talk about.

As their club motto states: “Give us something to talk about!”

30 Devil’s Advocate | Script

By BETSY DAILO, Script Editor

pho

Club Silence: A Review

Dino-of-the-Month

N SAW U www.ifinallyhaveyou.com The blogging baby now dedicates all her posts to her biggest fan. They are happily typing their feeling for each other on their shared blog. Their carefully articulated and loving posts make all their followers green with envy for a love like theirs.

Gitchi Gichi Goo, Eh? The Canadian and Ferb-loving girl are now close friends, sharing food across the computer desks. While they have not gotten rid of the boy in between, he has joined in on the fun of such a great friendship.

Final Act The cheerleader and the Drama cutie’s acting careers have come to a friendly duet. The leading actor in her life will be forced to take a bow next fall as he departs for college to pursue his calling.

Hopefully, she will not end up like Juliet.

His Reigning Queen It has been a long year for this couple, her becoming Queen, while he stands faithfully by as her beloved King. The next year under her rule will be successful and full of love. Even though she must stand down and pass on the crown next year, she will remain his Queen of Harts.

Strike Out You strike out but she never calls it.

When you mess up, the umpire allows you to walk, but really, you need to be back in the dog house…I mean dugout.

Boy, you can keep playing the game, but one day the umpire will call you out on your dirty plays.

Scheduling Their Love The girl with more on her mind than high school drama and the boy with a well-planned out future are set to go off to college together. With their heads in the right place, it may seem like there is no time for romance, but it can always be penciled in after long literary discussions and before dinner.

Love Her Like Beckham The senior soccer player and little blonde in the stands have been together all through half time and the second half. While he goes off to play for a national team, she plans to watch all his games and don on his jersey to support the boy who ran away, but is guaranteed to back pedal into her life after the game.

I see you, but you don’t see me.

We’ll fall in love, just wait and see.

Hookups

TheThe Best Doodles of Stanton Best...

Doodles of Doodles Stanton of Stanton SCP A-Z

By JAZELLE HANDOUSH, Editor-In-Chief

Majova- There are so many great things to say about Mrs. Majova that we couldn’t fit them all into the paper, so instead we want to express a huge “Thank you,” for all she’s done for us as our principal.

Note cards- Completion of nearly a thousand note cards as underclassmen is a right of passage (of sorts) for Stanton students. By junior year you’ll have enough of them to sell on the Stanton black market.

Oral presentations- We try to avoid them, but oral presentations are a must if you plan on graduating. Just know the information, make a dazzling board that steals your classmates’ attention, and please, please try to keep the “ums” and “likes” to a minimum.

Procrastination- Like Senioritis, procrastination is a deadly disease that can render any student lazy and helpless for hours on end. While a known cure has yet to be discovered, keeping the Facebook stalking to a minimum might help.

Querulous- (v) Complaining in a petulant or whining matter. “Stanton students are known to be querulous when they are stuck writing essays all period.” (Though we find that to be a reasonable excuse to be querulous.)

Ridiculous amounts of homework- This one seems to be self explanatory. Just know that the copious piles of homework, the insane list of essays, and the long, boring reading materials are all worth the time and effor—nevermind.

Step team- “We ain’t done yet,” seems to be our beloved step team’s motto; even when we think they’ve reached the next level, they show us that they have more noise to make.

Teachers- The love-hate relationship between teachers and students is unavoidable regardless of what school you attend, but we appreciate our teachers for the most random of reasons, including (but not limited to): candy prizes, bringing us Slurpees after lunch, letting us paint ceiling tiles of the portables after getting a five on an AP, and allowing us to watch Marvel movie trailers during class. For that, we say thank you!

Unicycling Club- The only club that allows you to roll around on not the overly mainstream two wheel, but one, the unicycling club is looking for someone to take over next year. The scrapes and bruises are the only dues.

Vernacular- With the dozens of vocabulary words Stanton students are forced to learn throughout the years, by senior year most have accumulated a very diverse vocabulary.

West 13th Street- This has been our home for the past 58 years, and while some things never change (including a few of the teachers), Stanton will continue to grow and expand for years to come.

X Country Team- The only group of students capable of getting away with dress-code-violation-short shorts, the cross country team will spin you in circles as they race around the campus.

Yearbook- The Devil’s Advocate’s rival (we love you Kaycie!) and Stanton’s longest running publication will forever keep our memories alive through the hundreds of silly and candid photos snapped throughout the years.

Zzz- Every Stanton student at one time or another will admit to having fallen asleep during class. On campus, nap time is inevitable with the copious amount of homework (see above) that keep us up all night, so you may want to stash a pillow in your locker.

Script | Devil’s Advocate

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Say No To Energy Drinks!

Endorsed by Stanton PTSA