Issue 6, Vol. 1

THE

CHAR OT Troy High School

Troy, Mich.

Volume 1 Issue 6

April 29, 2016

TECH TROUBLES: How Technology is Affecting the Lives of Students page 8

HOW TO PROM: Six Steps for a Fabulous Night page 15

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The Chariot

The Chariot

The official student newspaper of Troy High School www.troychariot.org troynewspaper@gmail.com Rahee Patel, editor-in-chief AuJenee Hirsch, assistant editor Leah Graham, assistant editor Jenny Boudon, cartoonist Emily Hamilton, graphic editor Soumeeka Koneru, photo editor Bhavya Sukhavasi, web editor Snigdha Suvarna, public relations editor Brendan Battle, staff writer Kaitlyn Bogdanovich, staff writer Bianca Bucholtz, staff writer Christina Crane, staff writer Hailey Davison, staff writer Sara Dehann, staff writer Deepthi Devireddy, staff writer Jarrod Fortner, staff writer Mina Fuqua, staff writer Silvia Hoxha, staff writer Sabina Ravindran, staff writer April Rice, staff writer Sarah Semon, staff writer Adam Sliwinski, staff writer Jayna Salk, adviser

The Chariot Staff Policy The Chariot is a student-produced news publication that publishes information relevant to the times as well as material that is essential to the overall well-being of its readers. It is The Chariot’s responsibility to cover school, city, state, national and international events and issues that affect the concerns of the campus, its students or its readers.

The Chariot operates as a designated public forum for student expression. The Editorial Board consisting of student editors is the sole decision-making and policy-setting body of The Chariot and has final say over all content decisions. The adviser and administration have a non-review role and may offer advice on sensitive issues and will offer criticisms as warranted but the Editorial Board reserves all rights to determine what material shall be published.

Editorials represent the collective opinion of The Chariot staff. Opinions expressed by individuals and in letters to the editor represent those of the author. Letters to the editor should be typed, double-spaced and must include the author’s name, signature and class or position. Names of individuals may be withheld upon request, pending a vote of the Editorial Board. Letters may be submitted in hard copy to room 204 at Troy High School or via email at troynewspaper@gmail.com. All letters are subject to review by the Editorial Board. Letters will not be edited except to fix space limitations. Should the Editorial Board deem a letter to be potentially libelous or containing content inappropriate for publication it will return the letter to the author with an opportunity for corrections. The Editorial Board is solely responsible for these decisions. Letters need to be received one week prior to print publication dates to be included in print.

DECA Takes On Nationals In Nashville Over 20 DECA students compete at a high level competition April 22-26 in Tennessee.

BY HAILEY DAVISON STAFF wRITER Each year a few students from the Troy High DECA team advance to a national competition.

The students who participate in DECA spend many hours preparing and working in order to make it to nationals.

“We have weekly meetings for DECA, then we have to study for the test on our own and we do role plays on our own,” senior Babu Uppalapati said.

Many students are aware of what DECA is but are unsure of what takes place at competitions.

“We will first have our opening session, then we will take our 100 question test that's part of our score. Then we take two role plays that are part of our score as well,” senior Nick Sirhan said.

The DECA nationals competition will take place on April 22 - April 26 in Nashville, Tenn.

As the adviser of DECA, Heidi Rosenberg will be joining the students in Nashville to lead the nationals team.

DECA will continue to practice after school leading up to the competition to ensure that they will perform well in Nashville.

PHOTO COURTESY OF HEIDI ROSENBERG

DECA members during a competiton at the Cobo Center. Third row from the right. Senior Babu Uppalapati, senior Sathvik Byreddy, senior Anurag Bolneni, senior Nick Sirhan, senior Clare Keating, sophomore Clare McAuliffe, senior Leo McManus, junior Joey Bugaj, senior Jimmy McAuliffe, sophomore Kevin Zhang, senior Akshay Umamaheswaran and senior Eric Cheng. Middle row: sophomore Afriti Chinoy, junior Ricky Young, senior Jack Schroeder. Front row: junior Sahiba Singh, senior Esther Simon, junior Emily Endres, senior Mariana Renke, senior Jahnavi Gudi, sophomore Maggie Crowell and senior Tabitha Hendren.

TSD Gives Back to Community The Superintendent Student Advisory Board begins their campaign with helping in and around Troy.

BY ADAM SLIwINSKI STAFF wRITER

PHOTO COURTESY OF FAITH KEATING

Once a month after a long day of school, students around the Troy School District gather to determine ways to improve the community. After a year of gathering resources and volunteers, The Superintendent Student Advisory Board is now ready and taking action to improve the community starting with a project to help improve local businesses and communities such as The Boys and Girls Club.

“One of the things that we wanted to do was participate in the Troy School District Day of Giving,” senior Harsh Patel said. “It is part of a global project called the Youth Service Day which runs from April 15-17 that promotes giving, volunteering and helping others.”

The Board organized a group of volunteers for the event to help out with Memebers of SSAB stand at the Boys and Girls Club for their fundraiser. everything from entertaining the kids backgrounds and contacts, the project was able to take off. in the gym to sitting down with parents “We have another small board of Boys and Girls club and discussing the Club’s features.

The Boys and Girls Club was the Superintendent Student members that coordinates with the advisory board…[and] Advisory Board’s first priority due to how the students felt we have been preparing with sponsors...to help out with fiit affected the community and how much of an influence nances to make this event the best it can possibly be,” Harewood said. it has.

In the future, the Board plans on broadening their sup“We decided to help this club because it is local and a lot of people participate,” sophomore William Harewood said. port to other local charities and businesses to improve the Troy community. With students leading the charge on the “It is a good thing to help out local businesses in the area”.

Many students who are on the Board also have had a Board, it seems these upcoming projects will help make a connection to the Boys and Girls Club. With their previous difference for the school district.

COVER PHOTO BY SOUMEEKA KONERU AND BHAVYA SUKHAVASI

news

3 GRAPHIC BY BHAVYA SUKHAVASI

Global Warming Takes a Toll on Mother Earth

A rise in carbon fuel emissions in 2015 means the earth is experiencing warmer temperatures that will be hard to recover from due to so much damage.

BY BHAVYA SUKHAVASI wEB EDITOR The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) announced that the annual growth rate of carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere rose more in 2015 than scientists have ever seen in a single year. Scientists are attributing this record high carbon dioxide level to a combination of two events: carbon fuel emissions and the El Niño event.

Carbon fuel emissions have actually stabilized in the last few years, with emissions decreasing in 2015. NOAA scientists mainly blame last year's spike in atmospheric carbon dioxide levels on what will likely be the most extreme El Niño ever recorded, as ecosystems respond to the changes in temperature.

According to scientists, a year of lower carbon dioxide emissions will not reconcile hundreds of years of pollution. February of 2016 proved to be the hottest February ever recorded by the NOAA. Though a strong El Niño has given global temperatures a boost, the main reason for the excessively warm months is a more long-term warming of the earth caused by the accumulation of heat-trapping greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.

Global warming rates have increased from 1950.

Students Talk About Prepping for Advanced Placement Tests In early May, the College Board will administer tests to college-bound high schoolers across the country, including over 700 colts.

BY LEAH GRAHAM EDITOR

Junior Nick Myhrer What’s the most stressful thing about APs? “AP tests.”

How are you preparing for AP tests?

“I’m not. That’s why it’s stressful.”

Do you think APs are worthwhile?

“Yeah, because I save money and my GPA gets better.”

What’s the best thing about APs? “After we take the AP tests, we get to watch movies.”

What are some of the movies you’ve watched in class?

“I’ve watched ‘Forrest Gump’ every single year so far, so we’ll see how that goes. I’m hoping Mr. Gibbons will show us ‘Star Wars.’”

Junior Lueda Shemitraku

How stressed are you about APs? “I’m definitely stressed, but I don’t think I’m as stressed as Abby [Miya]. My AP [tests] are pretty spread out so I think if I manage my time well then I’ll be fine, but it’s still pretty stressful.”

Do you think APs are worthwhile?

“I think if you take AP classes the way that they’re supposed to be taken, which is to test out of college classes, I think they’re better for you in the long run because you pay less.

But if you’re taking a bunch of useless APs just to get into college then I don’t think it’s worth it.”

Junior Abby Miya

How stressed are you about APs? “On a scale of one to 10, a solid 35. Maybe more.”

How are you preparing?

“I have lots of Barrons books and review flashcards, too. I bought my own flashcards because I was too lazy to make them by hand. I also haven’t been sleeping so I guess that’s a pro.

But I did have a double-shot espresso this morning, so that helped. I’m also doing lots of practice tests.”

PHOTO ILLUSTRATIONS BY LEAH GRAHAM

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The Chariot PHOTO BY LEAH GRAHAM

Holding onto the ball, varsity boys lacrosse player junior Michael Flynn takes on two opponents from Holt High School during a home game on Wednesday, March 30.

Boys LAX Rebuilds Team After Last Years’ Seniors Graduate As the spring athletic season progresses, the boys varsity lacrosse team takes to the turf with a roster full of young players and just two seniors; the team lost nearly 20 of its players from the 2015 season.

BY SOUMEEKA KONERU PHOTO EDITOR

Senior Blake Best runs with the ball in his stick during a game.

PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY LEAH GRAHAM

A team is created by its members.

Every individual member adds his own talents and personality to the team, so when one team member leaves, a part of the team leaves with him. The varsity boys lacrosse team had 19 seniors graduate last year and now has an almost entirely new team. The lacrosse team this season is composed of 23 players, including just two seniors.

“It is a completely new experience for a lot of us because a lot of us came up from JV; our first couple practices didn’t go too well, but we easily got into the hang of things,” junior Brandon Burlage said.

The changes to the team have resulted in a new team dynamic and the players are learning how to play together.

“It is definitely a transition year with all the new players on the team, but I think it

will be a good year,” junior captain Justin Parry said.

Most of the players on the varsity team are juniors and sophomores who were on jv lacrosse last year. The new players have more opportunities and spots to fill since so many seniors left the team.

“There are many more guys getting playing time and a lot more chances for [the players] to step up into leadership positions this year because there are a lot of young guys on the team,” junior Michael Flynn said.

Although the team is in a building year this year, the players are adjusting and have won their first game.

“We aren’t a bigger team this year, a lot of us are small guys. We do work hard and that makes up for the lack of experience,” Burlage said.

The members of the boys varsity lacrosse team spend over three hours to-

gether after school at practices and even more time together during games. Many of the team members are good friends in school as well.

“The best part of being on the team is working with all of your teammates. It is a good experience to have,” Flynn said. “[Lacrosse] is special because you have all of your friends on the team and win games but the things that happen off the field with your teammates are even better. Many of my close friends are from the team.”

Spring is a time of growth and new experiences, and the boy’s lacrosse team is excited to start the new season with a brand new team.

“We definitely want to beat Athens and Eisenhower,” Burlage said. “We’ve exceeded our expectations so far and our goal is to work well together and do the best we can.”

sports

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Softball Takes on Rochester in First Doubleheader of Regular Season After the varsity softball team competed in its first tournament of 2016 in Portland, Mich. on Saturday, April 16, they played RHS on Tuesday, April 19.

BY LEAH GRAHAM EDITOR The girls varsity softball team sits in a loose circle after beating Rochester High School 15-1 in the first leg of a doubleheader on April 19. Between games, the players talk animatedly with one another, ponytails bobbing and black uniforms identical as they recline on the grass in the shadow of the dugout, eating sandwiches provided by parents. Every so often one of the girls will jokingly announce that “teamwork makes the dream work.”

The win over RHS was refreshing, as the team was coming off a 0-3 record from a tournament the previous weekend in Portland, Mich. In anticipation of the competition in Portland, the team had three-hour practices during the previous week and over the past month practices were held every day of the week except for Saturdays. The girls practiced hitting, fielding and scenarios- pretend game situations, like what to do when there is a runner on first.

Tom Calnen is the team’s head coach. His daughter, junior Julia Calnen, is on varsity.

The doubleheader against RHS was varsity’s first of the regular season.

“I’m so excited to play this year, you can’t even imagine,” junior Brittaney Malaga said. “Unfortunately I didn’t play last year because I strained my hamstring so I was in physical therapy for about two months.”

Malaga is on the Leadership Committee, a group of upperclassmen on the team who help out the younger players, delegate responsibilities and occasionally work with the junior varsity and freshman teams as well. Given the large time commitment required to play varsity softball, the girls spend a great deal of time together.

“Our teammates become our best friends,”

Malaga said. She says her favorite experiences from the softball program are the team sleepovers, “where we hang out, eat food and have a great time.”

This year, varsity has a large number of underclassmen on the roster.

“I think the rest of the season is going to be a lot of fun because everyone on the team really gets along well and we have fun together. There are a lot of funny moments,” sophomore Caitlyn Moon said.

For some players, softball is an essential part of their high school experience.

“Freshman year, I got to play with my older sister Allie and she was on third base and there was a pass ball. I was just excited to be out there with her because she’s my sister and I was just so happy we got to play together,” junior Mary Cianciolo said. “But I didn’t get out of the way for her to come and slide and all I hear is, ‘Mary, move!’ It’s not like I did good or anything, but it’s just my favorite moment because that was so us and it was just fun to have that little moment with her in the sport we both love.”

Other players remember different perks of the softball program.

“Having practice six days a week gives me a good tan,” Malaga said, laughing.

Finishing their snacks, the varsity softball players stand and stretch alongside the dugout before trotting back onto the field.

They warm up in the outfield, tossing each other pop flies and practicing the motions of their swings. Senior pitcher Carlie Sebastian throws to Cianciolo, the catcher, gradually adding pace until the balls makes a solid ‘thud’ when it sails into Cianciolo’s mitt.

The Colts kept pace with RHS through the first few innings, but lost 5-9.

PHOTOS BY LEAH GRAHAM

Varsity player junior Miranda Urban runs onto first base.

Freshman Leya Chambo bunts during a doubleheader at RHS.

Season Begins for Troy United Rugby

BY AUJENEE HIRSCH EDITOR

On every game day the halls are filled with the sight of rugby players dressed in their finest, a long sleeved white button down shirt with a black and red striped tie to complement the casual attire. Add in the factor of short shorts and hairy, unshaved legs covered by black and red striped knee socks, and everyone knows that it’s game day for boys rugby.

Rugby is similar to American football, but there are many differences as well. Rugby is played on a 122 x 74 yard field with 15 players from each team on the field at once.

Players do not wear any protective equipment and are only allowed to pass the ball backwards, but can kick the ball forward at any time.

Troy United is a joint rugby team between all the high schools in the Troy School District. Troy United is coached by Rob An-

derson and has two captains: seniors Jace Johansson and TJ Grappin. Johansson is the captain of the forwards and Grappin is the captain of the backs. Forwards consist of the bigger people of the team who do more tackling than running. Backs are made of the faster people on the team who run the ball and try to score points in the Try Zone.

“My position is kind of a transfer between being a forward and being a back,” Johansson said. “It’s a great spot to communicate with all aspects of the team [in a scrum] and you really get a good view of the field.”

Johansson has been playing rugby for five years. He first joined in eighth grade and is the last person who will be able to play on Troy United for five years.

“It used to be if you were above the age of 14 you could play,” Johansson said. “It’s just high school now.”

The boys rugby team is looking to return to the state championships.

PHOTO COURTESY OF JACE JOHANSSON

There are two primary teams that compete for the state championships: the Division 1(D1) and Division 2 (D2) teams. In 2013, Troy United’s D2 team won the state championship.

“Winning the championships with all my friends on [the 2013] team, there’s no feeling like it,” Johansson said. “The excitement that [the 2013 team] had is similar to the excitement that [this year’s] team has. I can sense Senior TJ Grappin runs the ball to the try zone during good things this year.” an away game.

The Troy United Rugby of guys and I’m really, really glad for it,” Joteam is ready to win another hansson said. “We’re a great, great group state championship this year and has “really of guys.” melded together,” according to Johansson.

Troy United’s next match is against Dex“Rugby is such a family and it’s truly the ter on May 4. best bond that I’ve ever had with any group

6

The Chariot

The Person Behind the Smile Students reveal appreciation of Richard, a custodian, who continuously offers his kindness and generousity towards students during the lunches.

BY BIANCA BUCHOLTZ AND SNIGDHA SUVARNA STAFF WRITER AND PUBLIC RELATIONS EDITOR As lunch comes to an end everyone rushes to beat the bell to clean up their lunches, there is one person that many students look forward to seeing. The custodian Richard is known by students for his cheerful smile as he helps pick kids’ trash up by walking between the lunch tables.

“I started working here a year ago in April,” Richard said.

Although most students see him smiling throughout the lunchroom, few know much about him.

“I graduated from Athens High School. After high school I went to college and then I worked in the medical field for about 37 years. I decided to do something different as I retired. Then this opportunity came up and I got it,” Richard said.

Richard has fond memories of high school, often reminiscing about his time participating in sports and clubs with his friends.

“The after school activities were my favorite part of high school. [I enjoyed] being a part of a team and being with my friends while playing my favorite sports. I played football, wrestling and track, and I did some soccer and baseball outside of school,” Richard said.

Aside from Richard’s cheerful personality, he is appreciated by students for helping pick up their leftovers as he actively rolls the trashcan throughout the lunch room for students

to easily discard their food.

“I started coming around one day and picking up everybody’s leftovers, and then kids started handing their trash to me. So I just kind of went with it,” Richard said.

Richard’s routine not only consists of cleaning the lunchroom, but cleaning the kitchen and the media center as well.

“My typical work day is from 10:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. I would say working the lunchroom is the favorite part of my job. I get the chance to interact with all the students. It is very rewarding when the students say thank you to me for coming around and helping them out,” Richard said.

Many students appreciate Richard’s joyful personality and bright smile.

“I think it is awesome to see someone who goes above and beyond when they really do not have to. He is so pleasant and always smiling towards the students all the time,” senior Youstina Abdallah said.

Other students notice his dedication as well.

“He seems like a really happy person, always smiling and exchanging pleasantries. It is nice that he actively concentrates on making our lunchroom nice for the students,” senior Jennifer Kafarski said.

As students depart to the ringing of the fifth period class bell, Richard leaves students with a happy attitude and a

PHOTO BY SNIGDHA SUVARNA

Troy High custodian, Richard, is known for helping students during lunch.

beaming smile.

“Stay true to yourself with what you want to do in your career and future. Because if you are happy with what you do, you will never work a day in your life. I always get asked why I smile a lot, and it is because all of you guys smile.

Everyone just makes me happy,” Richard said.

Assistant Wrestling Coach Inducted into Hall of Fame After serving in the armed forces and recently retiring from his position as athletic director for over 60 years, Don Hill is being recognized for his past work.

BY JARROD FORTNER STAFF WRITER

PHOTO COURTESY ED MORYKWAS

Having recently celebrated his 90th birthday on March 2, retired athletic director Don Hill had been working with Troy High for over 60 years since starting his career as a teacher in 1951. Before becoming a teacher, Hill served as a World War II Navy veteran after graduating high school in 1944. Although Hill retired from his role as athletic director in 1988, he continued to be involved with Troy High by assisting the wrestling coach Gary Harland, before moving on to assisting coach Jon Thomas with other sports programs. For his

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service to Troy High’s wrestling program, Hill was chosen among others in Michigan to be inducted into the National Wrestling Hall of Fame and Museum, located in Stillwater, Oklahoma.

The National Wrestling Hall of Fame was established in 1976 to honor and appreciate teachers and coaches who have contributed invaluably to their high school’s wrestling program. Hill’s induction ceremony will be held at the Kellogg Center at Michigan State University on May 22, 2016.

Don Hill has been at Troy High for over 60 years.

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news

7

Stepping Into the Life of Vegans

Several students embrace the vegan lifestyle and share their personal experiences of progressively immersing themselves into a new and improved diet.

BY RAHEE PATEL EDITOR-IN-CHIEF “You don’t have to be a crazy psycho vegan who lives in a meadow and worships the vegan gods,” junior Chelsea Henning said. “It’s not that hard to become a vegan.”

Many people think that veganism is an impractical diet.

They believe that it is impossible to find foods that lack eggs, dairy and meats. However, many students make this “impossible” diet work.

“I think it’s easy to be vegan, and I know what foods I can and can’t eat. It’s a lot easier than you think it would be. For all the things people enjoy, like ice cream, there’s vegan alternatives that taste the same,” Henning said.

Henning has been a vegan for over a year now. She gave up meat for Lent, and upon returning to eating it, she found that she didn’t feel well afterwards. She said that her diet prior to becoming vegan didn’t include much dairy or eggs, and because of that, it was easy for her to transition to veganism.

Other students, like junior Audrey Thompson, found their inspiration for becoming vegan from sources like documentaries and articles.

“I watched a couple documentaries and I had been subscribed to YouTubers who are vegan, so they would always post different photos about what they eat in the day and all the ethical parts about being vegan, and I was really interested in it,” Thompson said. “There’s one [documentary] called Forks Over Knives that’s really good and I felt bad for the way the animals were being treated in the meat and dairy industry and that’s what kind of inspired me to go vegan.”

Thompson has been vegan for three months now. She shares her lifestyle on her Instagram account, posting her favorite vegan meals such as smoothie bowls in an attempt to show that it is possible for even a high schooler to be vegan, and that people don’t need to rely on animal products.

“It was difficult to find food to eat at first because gelatin is an animal product and lots of things have butter and eggs in them now,” Thompson said. “It’s about eating a lot of fruits and vegetables. I love smoothies for sure, and hummus, guacamole, popcorn and pasta- there are so many options. I could go on forever.”

Senior Amanda Vogel also found her inspiration for becoming a vegan from documentaries and articles. Her view on veganism came from her equal appreciation of all animals.

“I became vegan for a whole bunch of reasons,” Vogel said.

“I believe in it morally, and I don’t believe in loving certain kinds of animals and not the rest. I think it’s weird that we keep dogs as pets and we love them, but we can go eat a pig and fish just as easily. Being a vegan is also better for the environment all around. It’s better for you.”

Veganism is also often thought of as being from some type of food allergy, but, as Vogel explained, her diet is a choice.

It’s something she has the option to continue to follow or to change.

“I know if I really decided I needed a steak tomorrow, I could go eat one,” Vogel said. “It’s not a big deal. It’s a choice

to me. It’s not like a food allergy where I just can’t do it; it’s just something I believe in so it’s not very hard.”

Vogel believes that it’s not difficult to immerse oneself into a vegan diet.

“At first it was difficult because I had to learn to say no [to certain food]; now it’s not as hard because the thought doesn’t even go through my head. Before it was like, I could have pizza, but I have to say no, and now I just don’t eat it, unless it has no cheese. It’s something that I know I don’t eat anymore so it’s not so hard to say no to,” Vogel said.

The three girls shared similar advice to anyone who would like to try to become vegan: Educate yourself.

“If you’re interested, go watch a documentary or look up different vegan YouTubers or even people who are vegan on Instagram. Surround yourself with people who are knowledgeable on it. Just learn more,” Thompson said. “If you don’t want to become vegan you don’t have to, but I think there are just so many benefits from it that anyone could go vegan if they wanted to, and even though it is difficult at first, it’s great once you get started.”

Vogel believes that “Doing something is better than doing nothing.”

“Even if you don’t go straight to being vegan, try meatless Mondays, or cutting out dairy or eating less of things. It’s about being conscious about what you are eating in general, which is a good thing,” she said. “Once you start learning about where your food comes from, it changes the way you eat.”

PHOTO BY RAHEE PATEL

Junior Audrey Thompson, who works at Tropical Smoothie, makes a healthy vegan smoothie for a customer.

Technology and Commun

Technology affects the way mode face to face interactions, mainly a

New Generation, New Workforce How technology is limiting job numbers but also broadening horizons for the youth of today and their future opportunities in the professional field.

By Sarah Semon Staff Writer It is no secret that today’s technology is taking over nearly every aspect of our lives; from social media to online ordering, almost everything has an online counterpart. Even at restaurants it is becoming common to have tablets that let patrons place their orders. So what does that mean for our generation’s job opportunities? According to an August 2015 BBC news article, 47% of all jobs are endangered by technology breakthroughs. Taxi driving and Uber, factory work, waiters and waitresses are just some of the jobs that are threatened by the more recent advances in technology. While these may or may not be some of the occupations teenagers seek as long term employment, it seemingly hurts the short term search.

The reality is that companies are more inclined to use machinery and technology to accomplish their goals than use people.

“It is more cost effective and makes more sense for the company to use machines; machines can’t call in sick, they eliminate human

error [and] they don’t have to pay them,” senior Charles Douglas said.

However, the job hunt might not be as bleak as it appears. With all the developing technology, there might be more opportunities in the future.

“Teenagers now are much more technologically inclined and can use technology better than most adults. I think teens now would be extremely valuable in advertising since we know the most about social media and [attracting] the younger generation. There are so many jobs that technology could not take over so I really do not think it affects teens’ abilities to find jobs now or in the future,” junior Brandon Burlage said.

So before the mass hysteria of the future appearing to look like a scene from Wall-E, remember that where one door closes another opens. Technology will always be prevalent in society, but that doesn’t mean it will take it over entirely. While some jobs may fade out, or be lost to a robot, there will always be something that needs a personal touch.

aujenee hirsch, editor april 22, 2016 filed under features On April 3, 1973, Motorola researcher and creator of the cell phone, Martin Cooper, made the first mobile telephone call on the DynaTAC 8000X. Cooper did not know it at the time, but he created a device that would change the world and the way people communicate: the cell phone.

Since the introduction of the DynaTAC, cell phone evolution became a race among many of the world’s top electronic companies. The first flip phone was introduced in 1989 by Motorola and was quickly followed by the first touchscreen cell phone by IBM in 1994. Now in 2016, smartphones have impacted the way the world communicates not only digitally, but face to face as well.

From a poll conducted of 817 respondents, 69% of Troy High students spend more than three hours a day on their phone video chatting, looking on social media, texting or browsing the Internet. This data corresponds to a recent study done by Common Sense Media, in which they found that teens spend nine hours a day on the Internet; 46% of teenagers’ screen time comes from their mobile devices.

Cell phones were originally intended to be a means of communication for people while they are away from home or in case of an emergency; now they are mini computers used to keep people occupied in their spare time.

“I think cell phones, and technology as a whole, have definitely inhibited our creativity and ability to find ways to have fun versus just tap, tap, tap on your screen to keep boredom at bay,” senior Is-

d its Impact on nication

ern society communicates in among teenagers and children.

Collegeflix: The Screenplay By aDam SLiWinSKi Staff Writer

abelle Daoud said. “Over spring break we weren’t in the USA or anywhere we could use WiFi, so we had no access to our phones whatsoever. I haven’t laughed so hard since before I had a cell phone.

What’s really sad is once we got back to the USA we had access [to our phones] again, the entire ride back was silent and it really bummed me out.”

Spending so much time on the Internet has no doubt affected the way people interact with each other on a day to day basis. Now people who live in the same house can simply text each other from different rooms instead of getting up and going to talk to them face to face.

“When people are together they are on their phones and don’t notice their surroundings,” senior Maaria Lodhi said. “People would rather look at other people’s social life rather than pay attention to their own.”

Despite the negative social effects technological advancements have brought about, the evolution of cell phones and technology is not all bad. There have been major improvements in medicine, engineering and education. With the introduction of technology in elementary schools, many kids are learning to code and create softwares of their own.

Technological advancements can be a double edged sword. The constant use of cell phones can inhibit people’s ability to communicate with each other in something other than the digital realm, but the new creativity technological advancements have created in this generation will be something to keep an eye on.

A SCHOOL AUDITORIUM- DAY A futuristic insight of getting into college and beyond.

A class of seniors is taking an exam. Desks are lined in rows in a testing formation. A test is displayed in a bluish hue as students physically draw out conclusions. A student appears nervous and sweat begins to drip from his forehead through the hologram and on to the desk.He turns around looking at the clock ticking away. The student appears nervous as he works faster, furiously tampering with his test hologram until the countdown timer stops with 0.01 seconds remaining.

The student breathes a sigh of relief but then is immediately startled by the test’s results. Confetti blows up in the air as the student relaxes in his seat.

ROBOTIC COMPUTER VOICE Congratulations Student #145, Name: (undefined_value_001) You have been given access to the interplanetary college database. Please proceed accordingly.

The student screams with excitement.

The student leaves the room and proceeds to the designated selection chamber across the hall.

The student withdraws a photo of his family, a bittersweet memory of his home life.

STUDENT: Sorry fam, this bird’s got its own sky to fly in.

COURTYARD The student emerges, barging through the doors. He wishes himself luck as he walks toward a giant dome on the testing grounds, the sky a radiant blue.

DOME A green path lights up below the student’s feet directing him to a giant wide touchscreen within the dome, and he is greeted by a smiling face.

SMILING FACE: Please choose a school to preview. Even though you have an endless selection due to your perfect score, please don’t disappoint your parents.

Welcome to Collegeflix: the next generation in intergalactic education and debt V.2.01 ©3020 Zorpblob Inc. Andromeda System 233,34,13 STUDENT: I guess I will start from the beginning. Then again, I have the entire galaxy and space time continuum to choose from.

COMPUTER VOICE: Welcome to esteemed Stoneford University, established in…

ERROR major_not_found STUDENT: Awe Man! What about the medieval times?

COMPUTER VOICE: Connecting to the medieval world of Corndor, please select your class.

STUDENT Nope Huh, look at this one, “Hey pluto is totally a planet, we’ll give you a full ride if you acknowledge us.”

COMPUTER VOICE: Planet Pluto. Era 2000 CE. Approximate temperature: Freezing Cold.

Please select a major.

A hologram appears with all the possible future majorsLARPing, ace attorney, interplanetary basket weaving, and one highlighted- DEFENDING PLUTO AS A PLANET PLEASE CHOOSE THIS. The student ponders this peculiar position.

STUDENT: Defending Pluto? You mean I can save a whole planet?

I’m IN! COMPUTER VOICE: Major accepted. Please stand by.

5 Digital Years Later The student is found sitting on the surface of Pluto, which has just been deemed “not a planet.”

The End.

10

The Chariot PHOTOS BY APRIL RICE

Band teacher Brian Nutting watches the colorguard rehearse their new cadence in preparation for the parade.

Band and Orchestra Travel To San Antonio Band teacher Brian Nutting and orchestra teacher Bryan Kolk take their programs to perform at the Fiesta Flambeau parade in the Lone Star State.

BY APRIL RICE STAFF WRITER This year’s band trip was held in San Antonio where the band performed concert pieces that they played previously at the MSBOA State Band Festival. They marched in a 2.6 mile-long parade that consisted of the songs they played at the football games.

The Symphonic band, Concert band, Jazz Ensemble, and the Marching band with Color Guard attended the Fiesta Flambeau night time parade where the band marched in uniforms adorned with battery operated lights.

Before the parade, each band member had to attatch 4 different strings of lights to the pants, jacket and hat of their uniform. The larger insruments like the drumline and sou- Senior drum major Nick Eighmey leads the drumline during practice. saphones, along with the color guard flags, also put lights on their instruments. They CHINESE AND AMERICAN CUISINE played Fancy by Iggy Azalea and La Suerte De Los Tontos, a traditional Hispanic song.

“I know that past band members who have done it say it is a really cool and Dine-in/Catering/Carry-Outs great trip to do as a senior,” senior Roger Dean said. “I am excited for playing in the concert and marching in the parade.”

The band rehearsed every Monday since March to prepare for the concert and parade.

The trip to San Antonio was Wednesday, 102 E. Long Lake Road, Troy, MI 48085-5523 April 20 to Sunday, April 24.

KIM’S FAMILY RESTAURANT, INC. Tel. (248) 524 - 9207 Fax (248) 524 - 9783

features

11

New Creative Space To Open In The Media Center The previously unused conference room in the Media Center will be converted into an innovative area for students within the coming year.

BY SILVIA HOXHA STAFF WRITER The media center can be a place for students to expand their creativity, but there has yet to be a space welcoming or made for the sole purpose of this.

“I went to a conference for teachers who want to integrate computers into their classroom, and one of the big things that everybody was talking about for libraries was creating a makerspace,” media center specialist Toni Isaac said.

So, the idea came about regarding a small, unused room inside of the media center.

Isaac’s media center assistants have been working together to transform the room into an innovative space for students to use in many different ways.

“We went through a couple of ideas, but there [were a few] things that we really settled on that we thought we needed in the room,” senior Conner Trogden said.

Some of the things that the student helpers had in mind were out of budget, but that was only a small bump in the road as they were quickly able to come up with the money needed through the website Donors Choose. “[Something the assistants] really wanted was a LEGO wall,” Isaac said. “They submitted an application, and within 24 hours their project was funded. The LEGOs are on their way for the LEGO wall.”

The room does not have a set due date, but will most likely be finished sooner than later.

“For sure by next school year, but it is possible to get it done this year,” junior McKayla Coplen said.

Before becoming a creative space, the room had many purposes.

“This room, from when the school first was

PHOTO BY SILVIA HOXHA

Senior Conner Trogden and junior McKayla Coplen paint the creative space in the library.

opened, has been used by teachers,” Isaac said. “It’s never been a student room. When we first started here, [the makerspace room] was the ESL classroom, which they outgrew very quickly. For a short time, they turned

it into a video editing room for teachers.”

Afterwards, Mastery Manager computers that allowed teachers to scan the common assessment tests was introduced to the room, but were later given a home somewhere else with-

in the media center. With the room vacant, the student helpers were able to begin their project.

The room will initially be open to all students but the room could eventually become popular enough to require a sign-up sheet.

Student Government Attends MASC/MAHS Representatives from Student Government travel to Traverse City to participate in the annual state-wide MASC/MAHS Leadership Conference.

Every spring, Student Government travels to the MASC/MAHS Leadership Conference. From April 15-19, 12 members of the student government, along with advisors Mr. Ryan Werenka and Ms. Valerie Nafso traveled to Traverse City to work with other schools.

The conference featured guest speakers, games, a dance, a dinner and presentations from each school outlining an event that they held this school year. Troy High senior Nick Sirhan and sophomore Alex Schroder presented Fighting For Our Own, which focused on Dodging Cancer for Karen, which took place in December. Ideas from the event that were presented included the restaurant fundraisers, the lunch events and Rent-A-Senior.

“People at the event really liked our ideas,” Sirhan said. “Hopefully they can use our event to make their school and fundraisers better.”

The purpose of this event was for students at Troy High to grow as leaders and to share and receive new ideas to help schools.

“My favorite part about states is learning new ideas from other leaders and the dance at the end of the conference,” freshman Lauren Alberts said. “Students who are selected show dedication and hard work throughout the school year,” Alberts said. In order to attend the conference, students are selected by the advisors and the executive board.

The representatives received positive feedback and are looking forward to using what they learned in upcoming years.

PHOTO COURTESY OF LAUREn ALBERTS

BY EmILY HAmILTOn gRAPHICS EdITOR

Back Row: Sophomore Alex Schroeder, sophomore Anna Patton, junior Diana Leybin, junior Natalie Guisinger, freshman Lauren Alberts, freshman Jacob Sirhan Front Row: Sophomore Griffin Hendren, junior Tiffany Nogoy, junior Alyssa Asmar, sophomore Allie Percy, junior Meghan Durell, and senior Nick Sirhan

12

TSJP Presents the 2016 Culture Show

PHOTOS BY AUJENEE HIRSCH

The Chariot

Students showcase various aspects of their culture through singing, dancing and cooking at the annual culture show.

BY AUJENEE HIRSCH EDITOR A hush washed over the audience as the lights in the auditorium began to dim. The stage was dark except for a single spotlight shining on a podium located on stage right. An African-American man came out dressed in a crisp gray suit and introduced himself as the show’s keynote speaker, Mark Fancher. As the racial justice staff attorney of the American Civil Liberties Union of Michigan, Fancher discussed racial discrimination in public schools, disproportionate incarceration rates and police brutality among minorities. As his speech came to a close, he left the audience with this message: “The culture [adults] grow up in is what [they] view as the most important. We have become ignorant of the world’s history because of cultural showmanism. Now we depend on the youth to show us culture.”

On April 14, the Troy Social Justice Project hosted the annual 2016 Culture Show. Over 40 students demonstrated different forms of culture all over the world ranging from Bollywood dancing to slam poetry about what is like to be the first generation of your family born in America. The objective of the Culture Show is to show the community different cultures around the world through singing, dancing and food. Prior to the show is the Ethnic Fair, an event that showcases different foods around the world pertaining to a contributor’s culture such as crepes or fried rice.

“The purpose of the show is to celebrate all of the different cultures that we have in our school. For students who are collectively going home and celebrating their cultures at home so we wanted to give them an opportunity to come here,” TSJP advisor Jesse Allegier said. “It’s been a great experience. I know I have learned so much every year and our kids really seem to enjoy it. I think it’s a really healthy experience to learn about everybody’s culture.”

The culture show is a highlight for many students around the school. Many students enjoy the show because of what the meaning behind the show is and to support their friends. According to some students, the various bright clothing, upbeat music, energetic dances and overall atmosphere of the show gave the audience “good vibes.”

“I pretty much liked everything in the culture show considering the reasoning behind it is so astonishing.

Learning about the world and how we came about is such an important aspect of life,” senior Aarifah Asifee said. “[The show] was super energetic and it got the crowd going with good vibes.”

While on stage many of the performers showcased their abilities, had a great time and enjoyed their experience in the show.

“I felt pretty great on stage because everyone was cheering for us,” Bollywood dancer senior Shweta Bhavsar said. “All I’m chanting in my head is don’t mess up and I didn’t mess up so it’s all great.”

The show was well received by audience members and went well for all the performers who participated in the show.

Students perform the traditional Taiwanese Water Dragon dance led by sophomore Caroleen Chang (left) at the Culture Show.

The KPOP dance crew performs to a mixtape of songs created by famous Korean pop artists.

Sophomore Marissa Orzame performs a hula dance for the audience.

After the show, students gather together on stage and dance to “Party Rock Anthem” by LMFAO.

(From left to right) Sophomores Delbert Li, James Lee and Nerissa Wang during their performance of “Dope” by BTS.

features

Going Beyond Black and White

13

PHOTOS BY LEAH GRAHAM

The Troy School District’s Diversity and Inclusion Council hosted Beyond Black and White: The Story of Us to promote awareness and diversity.

BY LEAH GRAHAM EDITOR Overhead speakers play light classical music as visitors mill around the lobby of Troy Athens High School, looking at the canvases scattered throughout the area. The art is centered around the theme of self-perception, and the artists are students at elementary, middle and high schools from around the district. One piece is a deep red with the black outline of a girl taking a selfie, entitled “Perception of Self ” by Andy Chen from International Academy. Others, by Troy High senior Josh Desmon, are self portraits, each one showing a boy with glasses in various stages of stress with his hands on his head in exasperation.

It is Saturday, April 16, and the Troy School District’s Diversity and Inclusion Council is hosting Beyond Black & White, an event aimed at discussing social justice and awareness.

“This event is about the stereotypes that we face in our everyday lives. For example, if you’re Asian, you feel like you have to be smart and academically inclined. These are some of the stereotypes we impose on other people, we other-ize them, so we make them these other people and ostracize them,” event facilitator junior Ricky Young said. “These stereotypes cause problems in the community along those lines. This event is about talking about social awareness, about these topics and to open a constant dialogue about how we can recognize these differences and go beyond them.”

Facilitators of the event were members of various activist groups throughout the community, including the Troy African American Support Network, Council of Asian Pacific Americans, Troy Area Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays and Students Against Destructive Decisions.

After viewing the art, the keynote video, “The Story of Us,” was shown in the auditorium. The social justice documentary featured interviews with people from Troy who shared their personal experiences and anecdotes about racism, sexism and discrimination.

Following the video, participants divided themselves into breakout sessions to discuss topics and experiences related to social privilege. Sitting in chairs arranged in large circles, guests discussed recent events in the news, trends in race relations and diversity in the community.

Afterwards, guests were given plastic cups to fill with clear glass pebbles as part of a privilege walk. Moving from table to table in the lobby, participants read through lists of examples of different types of privilege and for each privilege they had, they would put a pebble in their cup to quantify the advantages society had awarded them on the basis of gender, race, religion, nationality, class or sexuality.

“This is really important to me because I’m an Asian kid and you always face the stereotypes that you’re doing all these things and because you’re Asian you’re probably just doing them for college,” Young said. “It doesn’t always mean that, though. We are just as human as everybody else, and maybe that’s why I want to do this event.”

“Sticks and Stones” by Aishwariya Mudunuri from IA.

Desmon’s self portrait of himself in various stages of stress. He says that to him social justice means that “everybody is being treated fairly.”

“Tightening the Knot” by Daiyajot Grewal from IA.

Desmon says his favorite thing about making art is “just putting my ideas down on paper.”

“Perception of Self” by Andy Chen, a student at International Academy East.

14

The Chariot

Youtube Celebrities Go Mainstream Youtube is now a successful career starting point for upcoming artists, and several vloggers who started on Youtube are now becoming celebrities.

bY bIAncA bUcHOlTz AnD SnIgDHA SUVARnA STAff WRITER AnD PUblIc RElATIOnS EDITOR Many students at Troy High are fans of Youtube and the content produced. It has become a social media outlet that is taking over amongst teenagers.

“I probably watch YouTube every day or like every other day, I think YouTube is a great opportunity for upcoming artists because it gives them the ability to reach a very wide audience,” sophomore Brittany Rose said. “YouTube as a career has become so much more popular nowadays. For example, I remember watching Tyler Oakley before his YouTube success became huge.

Now it’s his full time job and you see him everywhere, whether it be in magazines, speeches or other media sources. It’s cool to see these people that you’ve been following and rooting on for so long finally achieve success and accomplish their goals.”

With over a billion users, YouTube is one of the most successful websites in history.

YouTube came into the scene in the early 2000’s and quickly gained popularity among millennials. Many people began to make YouTube channels and some have gained over 30 million subscribers since then.

There has been some controversy as to whether or not YouTube can be considered a realistic career and if success can come from being a YouTuber. This year, several YouTubers have proved otherwise and made successful names for themselves.

Troye Sivan, a young singer from Australia, began a channel as a kid making videos of himself singing. He soon began making entertainment videos, which gained him nearly four million subscribers. In the fall of 2015, Sivan released his second album Blue Neighborhood. His main source of advertising was through YouTube in which

PHOTO bY bIAncA bUcHOlTz

he would share teasers for upcoming songs and behind the scenes videos. His album went on to become number one on iTunes in over 10 countries. He is currently on tour internationally for the album and making a huge name for himself outside of the YouTube scene.

Another YouTuber entering the scene is Colleen Evans (formerly Ballinger), also known as Miranda Sings. Evans created the character of Miranda Sings in 2008 as a parody of bad yet overly confident singers. The character is wildly famous for her comedic and satirical opinions on things. Colleen/ Miranda has been featured on a multitude of television shows and social media including The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon, Taylor Swift’s “Shake It Off ” Video, Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee with Jerry Seinfeld and was recently featured in The New York Times. She recently debuted her Senior RJ Dean watches Troye Sivan perform on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon. book “Self-Help” which immediately made use YouTube as a testing point to see how succeed while others wish to see them fail,” the USA Today’s and the New York Times’ viewers will react to their shows.

Rose said. “The idea that YouTube can be a Best-Seller Lists. She was also given the opDaniel Mercieca, creator and director of starting point for someone’s career has inportunity to star in her own show “Haters “Subject To Change,” an Australian tele- fluenced me as I personally aspire to be a Back Off ” on Netflix in the future. vision drama, went straight to YouTube to musician when I am older and want make YouTube is now a starting point for many share their Pilot Episode. They originally music my full time job. It’s really inspiracelebrities including Justin Bieber, Grace uploaded the video on the streaming site tional to see these YouTubers grow and be Helbig, Greyson Chance, Karmin, Cody to show production companies the poten- able to achieve their dreams.”

Simpson, Soulja Boy, Kate Upton and many tial the show had. Within weeks, millions YouTube is a place for people to be themmore. People are beginning to see YouTube of people across the globe had viewed the selves and connect with the rest of the as more than a social media app and more episode and shown support; Buzzfeed went world. People use YouTube as a way to gain of a potential career choice. on to call it “groundbreaking.” fans and popularity on a personal level. It “The potential for a YouTube creator to Some students feel as though YouTube has become a major form of entertainment become a global star has increased, and can be a great opportunity for promising for many people and hundreds of celebrities that opens up all sorts of new doors,” said artists and their personal careers as well. and entertainers are using it to launch sucJamie Byrne, YouTube’s director of content “I feel like the media now treats YouTu- cessful careers. It is a new way for children commercialization said in the Los Angeles bers like any other star that people admire. and upcoming artists to find new and more Times.

Although their way to fame may be dif- creative career paths.

Even Television shows are beginning to ferent, some people still want to see them

The New Beautiful: Barbie Gets an Update

Mattel recnelty updated their barbie dolls to feature more universal and diverse types of people. The iconic barbie doll is no longer “one-size-fits all.”

bY bHAVYA SUKHAVASI WEb EDITOR

For years, Barbie has been criticized for being a perpetrator of unhealthy body stereotypes. Parents and psychologists say that her perfect, and unattainable, proportions are responsible for confirming that there is a single definition of beauty. They pull out mountains of research that prove that the young girls who play with thin, beautiful Barbie are more likely to restrict their eating and be more critical of their own and other women’s bodies later in life.

Don’t let all this talk fool you though- Barbie is more than her appearance. Some Barbies have careers. As soon as she finishes up at her veterinary clinic, she hurries to broadcast the evening news. She is a rock star and

PHOTO bY RAHEE PATEl

a Marine Corps sergeant, and almost everything in between. She has been featured in movies and coded computer programs, and in her free time she runs for president. Barbie has flown into space; how can she not be a feminist icon?

The thing is that even though Barbie has more professions than she has shoes, all of these jobs just hide an underlying problem.

Barbie’s entire arsenal of degrees hides the fact that all of her jobs center around her appearance, which is very limiting. Doctor Barbie- who comes equipped with thick, squareshaped glasses, blonde hair pulled back into a high pony, and a pair of strappy black high heels- represents a very small percentage of

women.

Consumers have begun to realize that Barbie may just be a fun toy, but she is not a healthy one. In response, Mattel’s Barbie sales have steadily decreased for the past ten years. Dolls like American Girl and Disney’s Elsa and Anna, who have complex and interesting back stories, have been gaining space on shop shelves and in the homes of young girls.

And so, this past year, Barbie has been released in three new sizes and seven different skin tones. At the end of the day, Mattel has stretched Barbie’s hips and curled her hair, but she still has a lot of progress to make before she represents the full scope of women.

Barbie has also come out with various cultural versions.

15

editorials

How to Prepare for the Big Day: PROM

As May 21 rapidly approches, these are some steps that can help make your dream prom a success.

bY SARA DEHAAn AnD SAbInA RAVInDRAn STAff WRITERS

Step one: Plan

First and foremost, make sure to have a budget in mind. Prom dresses can range from under $100 to well over $500 so it is important to know how much you would be willing to spend on a dress. Although it may seem unnecessary, having an idea of a preferable style or color of dress is also helpful.

“I definitely think the dress I have reflects my style,” senior Maliha Khan said. “I like dresses that stand out but are also classy and elegant. I love sparkles and sequins and that is basically all of my dress.”

For others however, dress shopping was much more of a hit or miss process.

“I really didn’t know what kind of dress I wanted so I ended up trying on over 50 dresses, but I could never find one I really liked,” senior Haley Malinowski said. “My mom actually picked out my dress and I didn’t think I was going to like the ballgown type, but she forced me to put it on and I ended up loving it.”

Step two: Shop

While it may be easy to figure out whether you want a ballgown or an A-line style dress, the biggest challenge comes with trying to determine where to go find the perfect dress.

Online dress shopping has become increasingly popular with the growing availability of prom dresses on the internet in addition to the convenience of not having to be limited to the sizes and colors available in stores.

However, prom dress shopping online can be risky, especially considering what a big purchase it is.

“Be really careful which websites you order from because I know some people who’ve ordered dresses from untrustworthy websites and had their money scammed,” senior Krystal Qin said.

Some websites that have worked with success include promgirl.com, promhouse.com, and prom.unique-vintage.com. Other safe websites to order from are any department store websites- Macy’s, Jcpenney, and Nordstrom- because you can return the dresses at the store in case you do not like them. Prom dress stores include Hermz Boutique, Star Fashions, Windsor and Group USA.

Step 3: Accessories

An underestimated but still necessary step, shopping for accessories doesn't have to be hard.

“I haven't gotten my accessories yet, but I

know that I'm going to Charming Charlie’s,” senior Jordan Hendry said. “They always have super cute jewelry and I get almost all of my jewelry for dances there.”

Accessories however aren't just limited to jewelry; shoes and hair accessories are also a must.

“I have a pair of small earrings that I'm planning on wearing along with a silver bracelet that I have,” Khan said. “Also a nice pair of heels because that helps make the outfit.

Step four: The date

Step two and three are shopping for your dress and accessories.

Whether you decide to go to prom with your friends or go with a date, you’ll have fun either way! It’s so fun creating a prom group or finding a date to go with.

“I chose to take Jordan Held because she is the coolest girl I know, especially because she loves Disney,” senior Brian Ball said.

Ask your best friends to form a group with you so you can all go together or maybe ask that special someone to the dance yourself.

If you are not a senior then this won’t be your last prom but if you are a senior remember this is one of your last high school events so make it one of your best.

Step five: The big day

Make sure you get a good night’s sleep before so you have plenty of energy to dance the night away. One thing you have to be aware of is whoever you buy tickets with you will most likely be put in their table so find your closest friends and get some tickets from payschools! Getting a good night’s sleep will improve your overall mood and get rid of any under-eye circles as well. Sleep also makes you feel better, which is important on the day of a big event like prom.

Don’t stress about your date or your dress.

Just smile, breathe and enjoy these last high school moments. Whatever you do, do not forget that corsage or boutonniere!

Step four is getting a date to prom, and when you do, make sure you get tickets for you and your date on payschools.com

Step six: Prom

Enjoy it. Take as many pictures with your friends as possible because you will look back and reminisce what it was like to have all of your friends together at once. Don’t spend a lot of time on your phone because what’s the most enjoyable is what’s right in front of you with people you love. These are your last chances to do things before college while still in high school. Hit up that chocolate fountain or pull all your friends to the photobooth before hitting the dance floor.

Step six is having fun and enjoying the excitement of prom. gRAPHIcS bY EMIlY HAMIlTOn AnD RAHEE PATEl

The Chariot

16

Boudon’s Blueprint

BY JENNY BOUDON CARTOONIST

Eat thE Right DiEt!

In today’s world, there are more and more children eating foods with empty calories, which are calories gained with no nutrients.

Eating foods with IRON, VITAMIN E, FIBER, VITAMIN D AND CALCIUM are very important. Foods with these nutrients are essential to the growth and development of adolescents.

Come enjoy a delicious smoothie at Tropical Smoothie Cafe!

We are located at:

1569 N Main St. Clawson, MI 48017

Iron helps make healthy red blood cells (mostly found in vegetables) Vitamin D helps move calcium to your bones (mainly found in oils and nuts)

Calcium strengthens your bones (mainly found in dairy)

Fiber helps the digestive system (found in wheat, fruit and vegetables)