November 2012

• Surmounted Adversities • Reflective Cars • Over-rated Sports?

• Home-grown Cuisine

Riverside... Pirates... GET THAT A!

Pirates' Hookok

Pirate Vessels

Back in the day, in an average high school, the expectation was that every student would be average. Kids spoke the same language, no one was in a wheelchair, and everyone went home to a safe neighborhood.

Now, Riverside prizes itself for our diverse student body. Look closely enough and you can see the progress all around. Times have changed.

Riverside alone has many programs to help students succeed and achieve their goals. Students can get help for anything, from drama-inducing friends to planning for college.

SEE PAGE 12

SEE PAGE 5

Facing Adversity

SEE PAGE 15

Balancing Sports

Culinary Captains

Many students live in neighborhoods plagued with crime and violence. Riverside gives students a safe haven, where we can focus on learning instead of personal safety. A team of officers ensure a safe and appropriate learning environment. Students do not have to be limited by our background. It is in this way, that schools help students grow past obstacles.

For students falling behind, Saturday Academy was emplaced to give students that are struggling extra help with core subjects like science and math.

We even have the option of taking online courses with the Novell Stars program.

The English as a Second Language program is an example of things schools have changed, along with many other programs that give students the tools that are necessary to succeed. Students who are learning English get extra help with the language, and excelling in classes (where the teacher speaks English). Meanwhile, all of us benefit from the added cultural diversity, sitting beside peers from other countries in our classrooms.

Another update known as the Exceptional Children program, aids in the teaching of handicapped students - something that was not previously present. Students have the opportunity to take part in what is called Service Learning. In this class fellow peers aid handicapped students.

In this way, not only are EC students learning, but the peer helpers, who are grading papers and helping the teacher, are also learning how to care for disabled students. Today, no one is “average”. We are all different, and that is a good thing.

• GRAPHIC BY NICK ALEXANDER

SEE PAGE 19

The editorials, unless signed, are the consensus opinion of the editorial staff and do not necessarily reflect the views of the adviser or the school administration. The newspaper welcomes letters to the editor. The newspaper reserves the right to edit letters for space and clarity.

All letters must be signed, however, the newspaper will withhold names upon request with good reason. Advertisements in the newspaper are paid.advertisements and are not the opinion of, or the endorsement of, the newspaper or school administration.

•Head Editors: Ben Harrison, Chris Rice, Jonathan Titus •Editors: Emily Eubanks, Cameron McNeill, Quentin Philpot, Casey Speer, Christina Vurnakes •Staff: Ebony Anderson, Luke Berndt, Casie Bickers, C.J Carpenter, Dajai Cissell, Timothy Duke, Parker Harris, Davis Heric, Nicholas Kelly, Jasmine Lyon, David McSwain, Chris Perez, Benjamin Peters, Joanna Rivas, Elijah Rogers, Kima Clifton, Crystal Whitaker •Photo Editor: Chris Perez

www.riverside.dpsnc.net

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OPINION

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Tell Us What You Think!

Submit a letter to the editor to Room 148

NOVEMBER 2012

3

ARE SPORTS OVER-HYPED?

BY NICHOLAS KELLY Even when I was a kid, I always felt people made sports a bigger deal than they were.

Sure it is vaguely interesting to see the athleticism of some people, but do they really need to make millions of dollars for glorified entertainment?

I find the hype ridiculous. We have people dying everyday from common preventable things like hunger and lack of healthcare, but you have people like Drew Brees who are signing 100 million dollar contracts.

It is not my intent to pull the “starving children in Africa” card.

I do not mean to undermine the talent these individuals have, but I do not understand the attention they receive.

I can not be the only one who does not believe these athletes have earned their entry into the one percent.

Think for just a moment about how much money people are getting paid for playing sports.

We have all met people who “know” they are going to make it big.

It sets unrealistic expectations and students think they can fly through school without learning anything, after all they will be making more than any doctor would ever dream.

People get way too into it, they scream and yell for their team, but there are cases of vandalism and other criminal acts (like rioting after controversial games) between rivals.

Post-game riots are so frequent that there is a separate term for them: “sports riot”.

The hype has gotten out of hand.

Sports have become a reflection of a

school’s status.

Likewise, they reflect the condition of a state or city to fans, much like the Olympics reflect the condition of a nation.

The team you support is actually a social issue at times, which is literally the dumbest thing I have ever heard.

If you wear a Duke or a UNC shirt, you should be expecting some insults hurled your way, with varying amounts of sincerity.

These are generally innocent, but there are people who take it too seriously.

Fans start associating their team with their hometown, and suddenly it is a matter of personal pride.

I just cannot get into it.

Before I moved to North Carolina I never heard of Duke or UNC. When I arrived, at first glance, I thought the rivalry was more of a cruel, sarcastic joke I was not in on, but this was not true.

You have generations of fans and their allegiance to a team of massive hulking giants hurling balls.

I always hear people say “It is not just a sport.”

What does that make sports?

To me it looks as trivial as horse betting.

I see people jogging in the park, but I do not suddenly start cheering, painting my face, or tearing my shirt off.

Sports should always be involved in life.

Cameron McN McNeill, Junior

• GRAPHIC BY DAVIS HERIC

BY CAMERON MCNEILL Sports will never be overhyped. They are everything to me. The competition, the sweat, the blood, the tears. Nothing can be better.

Sports are intertwined with my entire life. Since day one, when I was christened with my wonderful name, I have been involved with sports. It is no coincidence that my parents are the biggest Duke fans that I know.

I have played a sport with every single one of my friends. We share the same interests, talk about why UNC is so bad at basketball, and hang out at football games.

Without sports, I would be a completely different person and would hang out with completely different people.

I am by no means the strongest guy in the world, but soccer and lacrosse push me to exercise.

During the offseason I run so that I won’t be dragging on the field. Thank you sports, for keeping me healthy.

Without sports, I would just be a nerdy, awkward kid hoping for an A in all of my classes. Saying, “I play soccer and lacrosse,” the ladies come in numbers. Trust me. As a member of the school lacrosse team, we all get the three G’s, “Goals, glory and girls.”

What guy wouldn’t want those things?

My opponent says that people get way too obsessed with sports. Impossible.

Intense fanhood is what makes sports great. It brings people together like nothing else. How else could you get thousands of people into a venue each week?

The rivalries that sports create make for conflict and good old-fashioned trash talk.

Michigan vs. Ohio State, Yankees vs. Red Sox, and most importantly, Duke vs. UNC. Nothing can compare.

When Austin Rivers drained a three pointer on that beautiful February night, I thought I had died and gone to heaven.

Watching replays of it still gives me goosebumps. I recieved no responses from the the text messages I sent that night to all of the UNC fans that I know. I could feel the hate on the other end of the line. And even when the tables are turned and I am the one not responding to the hateful messages, I respect my friends and I understand how they feel. (Actually, I hate them for 24 hours, then I love them again) I love every second of it.

It is more than just a game. The moment when the United States defeated the Soviet Union in hockey during the 1980 Winter Olympics transcended the sport and brought our country together. The patriotism developed by such a game had a giant effect on Americans and unified us against our enemy.

Goodbye Cold War, hello freedom.

Sports should always be involved in life. They provide the perfect opportunity to interact with others, get the girls, and bring people together.

Without sports my name would be meaningless. So would my life.

4 Peg-Leg

By Ben Harrison Security concerns are raising questions for the future of the National Association of High School Car Auto Racing (NAHSCAR) team after Tuesday’s near tragedy.

As she was jogging around the track after school, sophomore Jenya Myers was struck by the car of top Pirate driver and team coach Robert Duncan.

“I’m sueing Juicy J cause I would have heard the car coming if I hadn’t been listening to Bands A Make Her Dance,” Myers said.

After the accident, administrator Paul Keene quickly reported to the track to assess the situation.

“It seems to me that a car, driven by a [Riverside] student, hit another student on the track,” Keene said.

While Myers’ injuries are minor, Principal Jackie Tobias worries about losing the NAHSCAR

By Jonathan Titus First Lady Michelle Obama will visit Riverside at beginning of November to promote her Let’s Move program. The Let’s Move program is dedicated to solving the challenge of childhood obesity within a generation by promoting exercise and healthy eating.

DPS was impressed by Obama’s 5 point plan to improve student cafeterias, though the plan is very vague and unexplained.

“According to Good Housekeeping Magazine, 3 out of every 5 children in the United States will have at least 2 chins by the year 2014,” Obama said. “I plan to redirect that statistic.”

Obama will visit Riverside every Tuesday, serving tofu nuggets and school grown vegetables grown

These stories are as real as Mitt Romney's hair color

program.

“It’s such a bummer to most likely lose such a great sport,” Tobias said.

“We’ve put so much time and effort into all the pit crews and sponsorships that I hate to see it go.”

The NAHSCAR program at Riverside offers a sport to teachers and students as both are eligible to compete.

One new team member, English teacher Ray Rose, feels that losing the program will hurt not only him but also his top sponsor, GoDaddy. com, as they have already paid for the full season.

“It’s extremely unfortunate what happened, because I worked so hard on getting that [GoDaddy. com] sponsorship,” Rose said. “I just hope the GoDaddy girls don’t hate me now.”

The program poses the potential to be by far the largest revenue sport

Pirates' Hookok

Some teachers have been complaining about loud engine noises disrupting their classes.

“Could you repeat that question?” Math teacher Ruth Ann Chan said. “I can’t teach the quadratic formula, so we are just watching the Bojangles Southern 500 from Darlington. I really love Jimmie Johnson.”

Also an issue, students at Hillandale Elementary are complaining that tires are missing from their playground.

“All the big NAHSCAR kids from Riverside come English teacher Ray Rose stands with NASCAR driver Danica Patrick. here and steal our tires Although its future is in jeopordy, Riverside's NAHSCAR program offers before they race,” Hillandale • PHOTO COURTESY OF NAHSCAR potential to the school. student Jimmy Fairman said. at Riverside. into the stadium,” Tobias said. “We see all their orange hats at “Coach Marks worked it out so “We can’t have a NAHSCAR team night and icky brown spit all over the four-square court.” we can fit around 250,000 people without all the fans.”

creasing surveilon the new lance,” Obama said. farm planted “Each student on the back who brings lunch practice from home is exfield. pected to have only “It’s like fruits, vegetables, planting in and water. sand, but Arriving to hopefully school, each student this farm with a bag lunch will be up will be searched and running

by SRO officers for and if not, the “illegal lunches” students will and sniffed out by be,” botany First Lady Michelle Obama encourages a student to do push ups. a K-9 team trained teacher Ron- Obama will visit Riverside at the beginning of Novemberin the to detect trans fats. If a l d J o n e s cafeteria.

• PHOTO COURTESY OF THE WHITE HOUSE the lunch is not up to said. standards, the lunch Local DPS health advisors estimate a deSeniors will no longer to be al- will be confiscated and a school crease of about 15 pounds by lowed to leave campus, but they are lunch will be provided.

The school lunch menu will each student in the first 3 months allowed to bring lunch from home change dramatically with the reof Obama’s hiring. if checked by administration.

moval of pizza and nachos and the addition of tofu cakes and “celery dippers.” With the help from numerous donors, students will no longer have to pay for a cafeteria lunch, but a different requirement will be added. “Students will have to do 15 push ups before receiving their meal,” Superintendent Eric Becoats said Principal Jackie Tobias is ecstatic about the addition of Obama in the cafeteria and believes she will increase the productivity of the students.

“Not only is Tuesday the most productive day for our minds, but Tofu Tuesday will be the most productive day for our bodies,” Principal Jackie Tobias said.

The Lets Move program will soon kick off and reviews, so far, have been mixed.

November 2012

This disease is most common in children ranging between the ages of two and five Continual hospital visits, never ending years old, and has a survival rate of 80 doctor’s appointments, and day to day percent. struggles with cancer are norms in the life Despite all of the stress weighing her of varsity cheer coach Carey Eaton as she down, Eaton manages to accomplish what helps her daughter Kailey fight for her life. she needs to get done as a cheer coach.

Eaton not only Junior Blair Frazier, member of has to support her Eaton’s cheer squad, admires her daughter, but also attendance at practices. must focus on her “She’s amazingly strong,” work. Eaton balFrazier said. “She’s got a lot ances her job as going on in her life, but she a Speech Occupaalways comes to practice tional Therapist at no matter what.”

Carrington Middle Eaton’s strength School, as the varinspires many, but sity cheer coach at she credits this Riverside, and as strength to her a caring mother supportive family. looking out for Eaton believes her daughter and it’s a teamwork efher illness. fort between her and “Whatever her family, but Kailey cheerleading or Kaiis her main inspiration ley bring, I try to balto accomplish her responance them,” Eaton said. sibilities.

“Kailey is always my “Kailey always wants me to top priority though.” get up and get my work done,” Six year old Kailey Eaton said. “She’s my biggest has a type of cancer advocate to get to practice each known as Acute Lymday.” phoblastic Leukemia To manage doctor appoint(ALL), a cancer of ments and the rest of her responthe white blood sibilities, Eaton tries to schedule cells. According Kailey’s appointments early in the to the National morning.

Cancer Insti“We try to get the tough stuff done early so tute, the white we can enjoy the rest of the day,” Eaton said. blood cells are Eaton’s time management without a produced too doubt helps quickly in the Junior Blair Frazier poses with Kailey Eaton. Cary Eaton, her daughter bone marrow, cheerleading coach and mother of Kailey, helps her enjoy her day, and push out the duaughter fight her form of Leukemia. as well as • PHOTO COURTESY OF BLAIR FRAZIER helping hernormal cells.

By Casey Speer

5

self stay on task with her own responsibilities. The community has stepped up to help Eaton cope with work and dealing with the challenge that her daughter was handed.

Senior Caitlin Woods is not only a cheerleader for Eaton, but a member of the staff at Pizza Inn, a restaurant which held a fundraiser for Kailey.

Pizza Inn held a night in which all of the proceeds and donations went to the Eaton family.

“The proceeds raised about $1,000, and we got more than $2,000 in donations,” Woods said.

The school has also made an effort to lend a hand to Eaton and her family. The Lady Pirates’ Volleyball Program held a fundraiser and dedicated the games Carey Eaton poses with her daughter Kailey in the played, as well as any dona- hosptial. Kailey is fighting Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL).

• PHOTO COURTESY OF CAREY EATON tions, to Kailey.

Junior Mackensie Green helped lead these efforts. “We made t-shirts given by the community to help her in this for her, and sold chocolate cancer ribbons,” difficult situation.

Green said. “We raised around $385 for “I am so unbelievably appreciative,” Eaton said. “The amazing support and love given to us by everyone has blown me away. It helps so much, especially with the high medical expenses. I’m just beyond grateful.”

With such help and support, Eaton finds it easier to stay positive throughout the hardships of Kailey and her family. We’ll do anything Kailey’s unfortunate disease. to help.”

“You just have to handle what life gives Eaton greatly appreciates all the efforts you,” Eaton said.

"Kailey is always my top priority."

Carey Eaton

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Facing Adversity

Pirates' Hookok

(919)-471-0005 2728 Guess Road Durham, NC 27705

Senior Nick Vernon winds back for the release in a bowling game. Vernon excels at his passion of bowling, • PHOTOS COURTESY OF NICK VERNON recently reaching a near perfect score.

By Casie Bickers non also spends a lot of time prac- puter trouble, Vernon is the person ticing virtual bowling on his Wii. they call. Steve Artley, the school’s Nick Vernon approached the “I don’t think anyone in the computer technician always appreciates Vernon’s lane with confidence with one entire school could helping hand. frame away from bowling a per- beat Nick in bowling “Nick does the fect score. He let the ball go as he because it’s his pasbest job caring for watched as it roll down the center sion,” Exceptional the mobile laptops of the lane. Knocking down eight Children (EC) teachout of anyone in of ten pins, which is usually a good er John Wilburn said. the school,” Artley score, this time left Nick two pins Though Vernon’s said. short of perfection. main focus is bowlWhile everyVernon has always been an ing, he also exceeds thing in Vernon’s amazing bowler, but this was his in the classroom. life may not be best round ever. Even though it was Nick Vernon is an optimal, he refuses not a 300, Vernon is still proud of 18 year old senior, in to let it pose as an his score of 298.

Ben Huffman’s EC Nick Vernon obstacle in his life.

“I felt so happy,” Vernon said,“I class, who suffers from His determination and athleticism had never bowled such a good a learning disability. score in my life.”

BowlSoccer, basketball and throw- has not only helped him to become ing has been Vernon’s passion for ing a football are other passions a great bowler, but a shining star in many years. It started at Palace of Vernon’s. Because of this, he the classroom.

“It has been hard sometimes, but Pointe when he was seven and has is participating in Coach Duncan’s I have a lot of friends and family not stopped. Now, Vernon bowls gym class for the second year. almost every Saturday at Village Not only is Vernon an athlete, he that help me out,” Vernon said. “I Lanes. is also very handy with computers. have a lot of fun bowling and I hope Besides Saturday practice, Ver- Whenever a student is having com- to score a 300 one day.”

November 2012

By Timothy Duke Losing 70 pounds only took “a little self control and exercise,” Occupational Course of Study teacher Su Stone said.

“I want to lose 20 more pounds, that would make me very happy,” Stone said.

Students and teachers have almost completed their goals of healthy lives and are now happier with themselves, and all it took was a little motivation and information.

Since last spring, Stone has been dieting and exercising to reach her weight goal. To inform herself of what to eat and what not to eat, she has kept a food diary of everything she eats. Eventually, Stone knew how each food item affected her

so she could stay away from all the unhealthy food. This helped her keep track of her caloric intake so she could lose more pounds by eating right.

However, you don’t need to cut all the food you like out of your diet.

“All foods are okay in moderation,” Nutritionist Kara Mitchell said. “Sometimes there may be a food that at first we just need to stay away from because it is so hard for us to control portions with it,” Mitchell said.

Stone also ate less, but more often. Eating six times a day rather than three keeps your metabolism going throughout the day and causes more weight loss.

Exercise is also key for someone trying to lose weight. Running

Facing Adversity

almost religiously, freshman David Veintemilla has lost 50 pounds and it has helped him in many ways, “It really changes you,” Veintemilla said. “You’re more confident, you can take on challenges easier. I can run a lot faster.

Though you don’t even need to run, as long as you can get some exercise you will be fine.”

Kara Mitchell agrees with Veintemilla that working out is crucial to lose weight.

“Instead of a weekend workout, try raking the leaves this fall instead of using a blower,” Mitchell said. “Or even rake for just 10 -15 min. and then use the blower or do some intervals of raking then blowing. This is

where our biggest impact on calories burned lies.”

One of the most common barrier people have when trying to lose weight is time.

“It is very easy to get caught up in the hustle of life and not make time for healthy food preparation and planning,” Mitchell said. “We often go long periods of time between eating because of this lack of time and or preparation to have food available. One of the best things we can do to be at a healthy weight is to listen to our bodies and always eat when we are moderately hungry (a whisper of hunger, a hollow/emptiness in the stomach),” Mitchell said.

This sense often becomes lost and there’s a reason why, “As we grow up, we begin to learn that food is served only at certain times,” Mitchell said.

Mitchell believes that we no

7

longer eat for hunger, fullness, and pleasure, but to cope with emotions, and people are bored.

“The goal is if we can listen to our bodies and eat when we are moderately hungry, stop when we are moderately full, joyfully eat the food we have to get maximum pleasure and notice our emotions so that we can cope in more productive ways, our weight will come in line with what is healthy,” Mitchell said.

People need to be motivated in order to stay on a diet and become healthy.

“One time I looked in the mirror and decided to lose weight, so that’s what I did,” Veintemilla said. “I think that once you find a diet that you can work with, a diet that lets you have the occasion treat, and one that doesn’t deprive you of what you want and need, it will be pretty easy to stay motivated.”

Save a pet’s life!

Adopt from a local animal shelter

In memory of Karen Penny Byrd and Kathleen Couch Byrd

Music Rocks!

Check out •Learn to play an instrument• raleighflutes.org •Write your own hit songs• trianglemusicschool.com •Have fun with friends• durhammusicteachers.org •Meet new people• raleighdurham.inhomemusicteachers.com Su Stone eats trail mix to maintain her diet and continue to lose weight. Many people use a mix of • PHOTO BY TIMOTHY DUKE exercise and nutrition to stay in shape.

Looks great on college applications!

8

PIRATES' HOOKOK OK

FACING ADVERSITY

Seeking equal treatment

BY YAKIMA CLIFTON

Students worry about many different things like reputations, fitting in, test or grades. Freshman Osama Kaid worries that people will treat him differently because he is not from America.

“I’m scared because I feel some people may bully me,” Kaid said.

However, Senior Charlton Villafor feels different than Kaid. He was ready to be himself.

“I’m not scared of people, I feel like I’m okay,” Villafor said.

Many ESL students want to accomplish things by taking advantage of what is provided.

“I like to learn, because it will be helpful in the future,” Kaid said.

He wants to either be a Computer Scientist or a famous athlete.

Kaid and Villafor agree that understanding the new language is the hardest challenge they have faced

the Philippines. But doesn’t think it would be the same here.

Being scared is a common feeling everyone has whether it’s school related or not. However, everyone has at least someone or something that keeps them going.

“Teachers are my motivators” Kaid said.

On the other hand, Villafor said he motivates himself. Villafor’s parents act as his role models as Charlton Villafor • PHOTO BY CASIE BICKERS well. since coming to America.

Inspirations are varied differ“Something that motivates me ently, some kids may not have an is wanting to finish college,” Kaid inspiration. Kaid says his inspirasaid. tion is sports, while Villafor says Sports like football and soc- he does not seek inspiration from cer have motivated Kaid to push others. through school to get bigger and Everyone is different. Personalbetter in life as well. ity, maturity, athleticism, or race are “I fear that if I play a sport here I factors that set people apart. think I would be treated unfairly,” Equality remains important, stated Villafor. however, getting to know different Villafor used to play volleyball in people will help in the future.

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NOVEMBER 2012

BY CHRIS RICE

play again.

“It took me a couple of weeks to even Whether hitting a baseball or spiking a vol- be able to put pressure on my leg,” Smith leyball, it takes an immense amount of skill said. “My road to a full recovery was even to excel in athletics. With extra inhibitions, longer. I had to put a lot of work in to fully it is even harder to be involved in sports. heal and even then I still had trouble mentally Athletes face mental and physical hardships getting back into the game.”

Similar to Smith, Junior Kolby Snipes also no matter what it is they are playing and must work hard to bounce back and keep suffered a season-ending leg injury.

“I slipped going for a layup during a playing the sports they love.

Senior Scotty Smith puts in an incredible basketball tournament and tore my ACL,” amount of effort just to be able to take the Snipes said.

For Snipes, like many other athletes, the field with his teammates again. Last year Smith broke his tibia and fibula during a road to recovery will be a long one. Not football game and has struggled to recover only will she have to make sure her leg is over six months before he was cleared to fully healed, she will have to make sure that it is working as efficient as it was before her injury.

“I just had surgery and now I go to rehab twice a week,” Snipes said.

“It should take about six months for me to fully recover.”

Both players agreed that the pain wasn’t the hardest part of their injury. The most challenging part was having to sit out while their team played without them.

“I just had to watch my team play and know that I could be helping them out,” Smith said. “It was really hard to feel so helpless. I couldn’t do anything but cheer them on and hope for the best.”

Athletes do not always struggle physically, however. Many struggle with the mental aspect of sports at one time or another. Coming into a new school his junior year, senior Brice Norton had to adjust to playing on the soccer team without knowing anybody.

“It was really hard at first,” Norton said. “I was coming to a new school where I was bombarded with social situations and also had to focus on playing at the same time. After getting to know my teammates, everything became easier. I was able to interact with them on and Sophomore Joelle Trollinger plays soccer while on off the field.” crutches. Athletes recover from injuries and play Senior Jordan Kepnar also had to the game they love.

• PHOTO BY CHRIS RICE adjust to a new school and a new

FACING ADVERSITY

team this year. Playing on the volleyball team, Kepnar had to get to know her teammates quickly.

“Volleyball is a really vocal sport so it was really hard at first to play with the new team,” Kepnar said. “Gradually we got more comfortable with each other and now I feel like we are working really well together.”

Whether sports challenges present themselves mentally or physically, all athletes must deal with and overcome them to get back to playing with their team again.

“It was one of the most challenging things that I have ever had to face but I can finally play with my team again,” Smith said.

“I’m just really thankful that I got through it.”

9

10 Columns

Pirates' Hookok

By Benjamin L. Harrison

Seniors Brice Norton, Daniel Tompkins and junior Cameron McNeill play Super Smash Bros. Senior Chris Rice believes Super Smash Bros. is a great way to relieve stress.

• PHOTO COURTESY OF CHRIS RICE

By Chris R. Rice Super Smash Bros is just another video game for most people, just another way to pass the time. For me and my friends, it is a religion. It is a necessity. It is life itself.

Everyday before soccer we engage in another intense, and sometimes infuriating, round. It is more than a habit, it has become the center point in our friendship. Super Smash Bros is the center of our lives like the sun is the center of the universe.

You win, you are the king for the day.

You lose, you deal with the humiliation of a day’s worth of smack talking.

People don’t understand. We tell them that it is more than just a button masher. We tell them that the level of strategy is on a different spectrum. We tell them that every character has different style of play. We tell them that every stage is unique. But they still don’t get it.

This is like international diplomacy. Rivalries develop. Challenges emerge. Neutrality is impossible - even bystanders get sucked in and take sides.

I am the best, of course. But all five of us are intense and involved. We are bonded by

it. I wake up each day thinking about Wario’s special attack. In psychology I dream about how to be better at the Yoshi’s Island stage.

At soccer we argue about whether so-and-so is better than so-and-so.

Super Smash Bros has become a bonding point between us. Everyone looks forward to the next day where a new round of games will be played and one can rise to the occasion and win.

A lot of people hang out by playing pick up football or skateboard or work on their cars with their friends, but we hang out by playing Super Smash Bros. Don’t get me wrong, we play sports together too, but Super Smash Bros is something unique that we all share.

No matter whether we barely pass that history test or get caught in a lock-out, we can look forward to going over to Cameron’s house or Luke's treehouse and playing Super Smash Bros.

School is hard enough. We all need to have a different center of our universe. We are too caught up in school and work to relax.

Everyone needs an outlet to get their stress out whether it be playing music or, my favorite, playing Super Smash Bros.

to suggest the next cheapest option - that is, if I’m willing to buy food at all. While all my friends get fast food daily, I prefer to stay in the journalism room and mooch whatever food I can off my classmates.

Although I have a car, I often find a ride to wherever I’m going so I don’t have to use my gas. It’s only logical.

If everyone went to such extremes as I do to save money, no one would be short of cash.

Want more money? Find some cheaper shoes!

Next time you find yourself lusting for the newest Nike Air Kobe 4, come chill with me and you might just find a little extra cash in your wallet.

I’m walking down the street through pouring rain. I see a decently sized puddle in my way and begin to map a detour around it. Then, I take a second, and I realize my crappy, $50 Mizuno tennis shoes could use a little more dirt because that’s what a shoe is made for.

What’s up with everyone buying the new “J’s” or Nikes? Couldn’t a high school student find something more practical to spend money on?

I can only see one difference between what’s on my feet and what’s on everyone else’s, and that’s a couple hundred bucks.

The way I see it, any shoe will get dirty in a matter of time, so there’s no point in paying a few hundred dollars just to worry about the inevitable. A kid can save for months so they can afford shoes, then complain about not having any money.

Most people who read this, if acquainted with me, will most likely say I’m being my stingy self, which is probably true.

But why is stingy a bad thing?

If I can spend less money and get basically the same things as someone else, then I see no need to ever buy anything at regular price. With the coupons, sales, and knock-off brands available, you can save money on nearly anything.

Cheap shoes are only a fraction of my stinginess.

Senior Benjamin Harrison counts his bills. Harrison When my friends go out conserves his money for important purchases.

• PHOTO BY JONATHAN TITUS to eat, I’m always the first

November 2012

By Jonathan G. Titus As I jump down twisting my ankle in the dirt, I turn my head around to see the hole in my shirt and a little blood stain from the metal fence grazing my shoulder blade. This is what it takes for a broke student like me to go see his friends play a sport and cheer on his school. I have committed a misdemeanor...for Riverside.

One movie ticket. Maybe 5 Mickey D’s hamburgers. A couple packs of gum. $5 can go a long way. The price of admission to every sporting event except for football is $5; football is $6.

Though I enjoy attending volleyball, soccer, football, and basketball games, the bill starts to add up.

“Come out and support the soccer team tonight,” Ms. Tobias tells us during the announcements.

Hearing this, I fill with excitement. I know I’ll have front row seats to an all out grudge match. That small tease over the intercom leads me from a path of school spirit to a highway of depleted bank accounts.

It is not just athletics. Talent shows, school plays, chorus shows: they all cost student admission.

I like watching the orchestra perform themes from Phantom of the Opera just as much as the next guy, but it costs an arm and leg. The students that put on these shows do them for free, so shouldn’t their peers get to watch for free?

“Why not just stop going to the games?” one may ask. As a senior, I feel it is important to have a large, noisy student body at school athletics.

A couple weeks ago I attended a varsity soccer match. In the stands sat two soccer moms and an awkward middle age man, quietly cheering on the Pirates.

Columns

This depressing picture I have painted for you happens to not just soccer, but volleyball, lacrosse, field hockey, and every other sport at Riverside, because of money.

Seeing your friends play becomes impossible when one sees a cash box wide open on the table ready to consume any student’s allowance.Imagine a senior on the basketball team hitting a last second, half court shot to win the game.

Celebrating in a dog pile with his teammates, he looks up to see only his sweet grandmother in the stands with an empty student section.

If a game winning shot is made, and no one sees it, did it really happen?

Numerous schools in Durham and throughout North Carolina don’t charge student admission to athletics.

The money is supposed to go towards payment of the refs and for extra team necessities like water bottles and senior balloons.

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11

If students were to be let What student doesn’t like a good in for free, athletics could candy bar and soda during a game? gain money through funds You want Pirate Pride? Change collected at the snack bar. the Pirate price.

Senior Jonathan Titus searches for money to pay for tickets to a football game, one of his many ticket purchases.

• PHOTO BY BENJAMIN HARRISON

The Pirates' Hook November 2012

12

By Benjamin Peters Buying a car as a kid in America is hard. In most people’s eyes, your car defines whether you are rich, poor, redneck, spoiled.

Many people use their car to express their interests, whether it may be church, family, or mudding. The type of car you choose is excruciatingly important,

especially as a high school student, where your image is essential.

Senior Josh Scaggs drives a lifted Ford truck that doesn’t fail to show who he is. From the deer decals to the mud on the tires, you would assume he is a country boy.

Scaggs bought his car through craigslist.org, and by the demand of his father, found the truck he was looking for.

But the main reason Scaggs chose that particular car, was for him to be safe if he were to ever get in a car accident.

“I had to have something big in case I got in a car crash,” Scaggs said. “That was my parents decision.”

Some students go for the car that will symbolize the individual they see themselves as.

Senior Brad Hughes sees himself as a redneck, and he enjoys the “intimidation

factor” his truck gives him.

"I’ve got a big truck because I’m bad, and I love it because it gives me respect and attention,” Hughes said. “When people see me they think, ‘what a redneck’. And that’s what I want.”

Hughes bought his truck for $7,500 through a friend, and it is more than enough to get the attention he craves for.

Senior Ana Bray also has her own way

of expressing her interests and what she stands for. On the rear window of her car, she has six different stickers that each represent a different interest.

The one she cares most about, her “Young Life” sticker.

“I don’t care what people think when they see my stickers” Bray said. “They’re only there for me.”

A car can among other things, express

one’s personality and individuality.

Before a teenager decides on which car they want, they make sure it suits who they are and what they stand for.

•PHOTOS BY BEN PETERS

Ana Bray points out decals on her car. Bray expresses her interests and what she stands for through these decals.

By Jasmine Lyon

Senior Josh Scaggs poses proudly on his truck, showing the pride he takes in it. Scaggs expresses himself through his vehicle with his suspension and decals.

The average teen spends about $2,000 every year according to wiki. answers.com, and that’s just the wants and needs. For teens who have cars, there are more expenses that have to payed for, such as insurance, repairs, and gas.

According to ehow.com, the average American spends $1,333 on gas each year, and thats just for $2.50 a gallon. At $2.75 a gallon, the average would be about $1,467 a year.

“I use a full tank so that’s about $60 to $80 a week,” junior Preston Finch said.

Finch doesn’t have a job, so he gets the money for gas from his parents.

Junior Megan Bobbitt works at Rudino’s pizza. She uses the money

she makes for gas and other expenses on her car.

“I only use about half a tank, so thats almost $30 a week,” Bobbitt said.

Adding a teen driver to a parent's auto insurance policy is very expensive, and can increase the policy cost by as much as 44 percent.

According to Insurance.com, the average amount of money for insurance for the age group 16 to 19 is about $2,999 per year.

A few weeks ago Finch got into a minor accident where a driver hit his door. More than likely, his insurance cost will rise.

Auto repairs are on the expensive side as well, costing tens of thousands of dollars depending on what needs to be done.

Recently, Bobbitt’s car was keyed and that came out to be $1,200. She also has to get her trunk fixed, which will be a couple hundred dollars.

Finch has to get his door repaired from the accident he had, which is going to come out to be $1,800.

Many drivers, especially teenagers, drive faster than the posted speed limit which can often result in a speeding ticket, which will also increase insurance fees.

According to Autofix.com, insurance rates can go up to 25 percent for three years just for one speeding ticket. Lucky for Finch and Bobbitt, they are yet to receive on.

Cars are a big responsibility and can be expensive. With repairs, insurance, and the rising of gas prices, keeping a budget is a must.

13

By Christina Vurnakes awkward car ride home with a disap- where she’s going. pointed parent may be uncomfortable, After the unexpected happens,

A student is it is better than losing a life and risking teenagers will begin to think about the dangers of fees that will have to be paid driving down the the safety of others. road after a wild “I don’t drink and drive because you off, whether that includes actual insurparty. The street can always get a designated driver,” ance costs, or the cost of someone’s life lines are blurry junior Scott Kallianos said. “Someone that was in the car.

“You don’t think about the dangers and he can’t make getting killed over a drive home from of driving and being stupid,” junior out the color of the a party isn’t worth it.” stop lights. Not only According to the National Safety Alex Tunis said.

When a driver gets a speeding ticket, is this a danger to himself, but to other Council, 1.4 million yearly crashes are caused by drivers on cell phones. $1,000 must be paid over a time span of drivers on the road.

Many teenagers think that nothing can Based on a study from FocusDriven. three years. When caught drinking and go wrong when behind the wheel, but the org, texting while driving increases driving, the driver will lose their license number one cause of teen deaths in the chances of a being in a wreck by 8-23 and their insurance will be canceled. times.

“I don’t have the money to pay for U.S. is car accidents.

“The wreck I recently got into opened Still, some students continue to find the increase in insurance if I were to get in an accident because of a dumb my eyes and made me realize that you excuses for careless driving. really do have to be cautious when driv- “Texting and driving is only okay decision,” senior Ayana Roddey said.

It only takes one bad accident to ing,” senior Susan Ray said. “My car during emergencies, but you still need take a life. flipped twice. I was really lucky, and to be careful,” one student said.

Senior Jennifer Luque speeds be“It’s all fun and games until someone most people aren’t.”

The top five driver distractions include cause she doesn’t want to be late to gets hurt,” junior Rosa Bestmann said. mobile phones, adjusting vehicle settings, passengers, eating or smoking, and external distractions. Not only do these factors come into play, but drivers that drink alcohol before they drive must also be considered.

“Drinking and driving is dangerous not to only the driver, but to everyone else on the road,” senior Meaghan O’Mary said. “Other people’s lives are in your hands.”

Not many students realize that the one careless mistake of driving while intoxicated could cause a lifetime of problems.

“If I drink and drive and hurt someone I would feel horrible in the end,” senior Josh Scaggs said. “There’s always other options rather then getting behind the wheel when not in the right state of mind.”

Students who drink and are •PHOTO COURTESY OF SUSAN RAY encouraged by authorities to either call a parent or find an- Senior Susan Ray gets checked for injuries after her car accident. Many students other safe ride. Even though the don't take into consideration the fact that a wreck is possible at all times.

14

Pirates' Hookok

Pirate Vessels

By Davis Heric I can remember my father telling me he bought his first car as a teenager, a 1965 Chevrolet Impala convertible, for $1,000.

Cars back then were cheap, easy to work on, and an everyday American car was a work of art. However times have changed. Now it is rare as for a newly turned 16 year old to go out and not just purchase their own car, but pay for every single expense that piles on with that.

Nowadays, cars are more expensive to buy and they are becoming more expensive to maintain. The price of gas has continued to rise over time as well, and the cost to insure a teen driver is through the roof. The list goes on and on, making it near impossible for teens to pay every expense on their own.

Nearly every teen who works has a minimum wage job, and attending school for a majority of the year limits how much they can work. Given that, buying a car and then also paying for the maintenance and insurance is too much for most high school students.

It may be rare to find a teen who is fully capable of picking up every single auto bill, but some students can.

“I have been working at Pizza Inn, so I was able to pay for half of my Jeep. I’m able to pay for gas, insurance, and also repairs,” senior Caitlin Woods said.

Many teens who work are only able to do so after school, so summers are spent with long days at their job so that they can make money to either save, or go out and purchase

things such as their first car.

Paying for every single thing is very difficult for teens, and this is mostly because of insurance. According to Herring & Bickers Insurance Agency, Inc., insuring someone who is a new teen driver on a vehicle in North Carolina could cost up $1,800 per year. Actions by the driver can cause the price to rise however.

Getting speeding tickets, accidents, or other violations repeatedly will result in an increase in the price of insurance. The insurance costs deter teens and adults alike from getting a fast and powerful car, which is unfortunate since a majority of people all ages would be happy driving something like a Corvette.

However, there are still ways to find a car that fits the style and personality desired, and still afford it.

“I’m currently talking to used car dealers about buying a car,” senior David Ross said, “I test drove a car with a 4-cylinder engine and it wasn’t powerful enough for me, so now I’m looking for a 6-cylinder sedan that is powerful but still reliable at the same time. My price range is anywhere from $3,000-$5,000.”

When looking for a car, especially a teen’s first car, many things have to line up perfectly. Purchasing a car with a 6-cylinder engine instead of a 4-cylinder is a smart way to stay in price range and still get a powerful car. However, things such as engine power or a specific exterior color will have to take the backseat to other priorities.

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Senior James Moss with his 1987 SAAB 900 Turbo. Moss bought his own car by working a land-scaping job.

• PHOTO BY DAVIS HERIC

By Davis Heric For a first time car buyer, every single step must be taken carefully. The biggest concern is how to pay for the car, but other issues such as reliability and maintenance will also influence a purchase decision.

Paying for a car can be difficult, but there are alternatives to cash.

Financing a car is like financing anything, a down payment is made and the remaining amount will become a loan that is paid off by the month, plus the interest of course. If a significant amount of money is not put down when a car is initially purchased, the interest that is paid pay along with the loan payment each month could become crippling.

A vehicle is an asset, but if that vehicle has payments it is nothing more than a liability.

If the payments are enormous every month then financing either was a poor decision or the car was way too expensive.

Even if all payments are met on time until the loan is off, a car buyer who chooses to finance their new car will always pay more money in the end because of interest, but for many paying cash up front is not an option.

Choosing what path to take is especially important if you are buying a car that could

potentially be in the shop a lot.

“Try not to buy a car older than you are, and be well informed about the pros and cons of the model you are looking to buy,” senior James Moss said.

Modern cars are pretty reliable compared to cars in the past. A newer everyday car hardly has to go to the shop except for regular scheduled maintenance. However, a used car can be completely different.

Especially for a first time buyer, knowing the vehicle’s history is absolutely critical.

Companies like CARFAX have made it easier to check a vehicle’s history because all maintenance performed on a car has to be recorded with a car’s VIN (Vehicle Identification Number), making it easy for potential buyers to see every single detail about a vehicle and its past.

Buying a car can be a satisfying and fulfilling experience. Unfortunately mistakes can be made by buyers of all ages that can be catastrophic and cost gobs of hard earned cash, either by a poor purchase decision or huge maintenance bills.

Teens must understand this and take all necessary steps to make buying their first car a memorable and successful experience, because it should be for everyone.

November 2012

BALANCING SPORTS when their team is losing, they are expected to keep the level of excitement high.

“I just keep smiling and cheering no matter what goes on during the games,” junior Anna Freeman said.

Other games, such as ones with more meaning, make it much easier for the cheerleaders to stay excited.

“Games against Northern, homecoming, and senior night are always really fun to cheer for because they are so exciting and a lot of fans come out to watch them,” Freeman said.

Student attendance also has a big affect on how upbeat and excited the cheerleaders

are during the game. With a bigger crowd, the cheerleaders find it easier to lead the crowd and get the students into the game.

“The most exciting game this year was the Northern game,” Frazier said. “I didn’t think a lot of people were going to stay for the game because it was raining and we weren’t supposed to win. When the game started and there were a lot of people there, I got really excited and ready to cheer.”

To prepare for all of the games whether they will be exciting or not, the most important time for the cheerleaders is the pre game.

“After we talk about who we are playing in the game and when we do all of our stunts well before hand, we get really excited,”

15

senior Jaslyn Hunter said.

Their coach Carey Eaton makes sure their quarter breaks, which are stunts, routines, and cheers, are done to near perfection before they take to the sideline for the game.

This is very important and allows the cheerleaders to stay fired up and be a continual source of energy and spirit throughout the game.

“The cheerleaders make me want to cheer harder during the game and it’s not a football game without them,” freshman Jacob Anderson said.

Much to the appreciation of the fans, cheerleaders always manage to stay excited during the games no matter what the outcome is.

It is the fourth quarter and the football team is down by 20 against Northwood.

Still, despite facing a 50 minute bus ride home, the cheerleaders remain upbeat and into the game.

“Pirates, pirates, break through that line,” the cheerleaders continue to chant.

Cheerleaders must remain cheerful and energetic throughout the game to keep the fans interested.

The cheerleaders try to find a way to make games that result in a loss or are far away, fun for themselves.

“A lot of us are friends, so during the games we just try and have fun together,” junior Blair Frazier said. “It really helps us bond together.”

Cheerleaders use smiles and peppy Cheerleaders show their school spirit at the homecoming pep rally. The cheerleader's love for cheering helps them remain peppy • PHOTO BY CHRIS PEREZ cheers to push through the games. Even during the games throughout two long seasons.

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16

Pirates' Hookok

Balancing Sports

By Casie Bickers Between practice, study sessions, and trying to have a social life, many student athletes are left to juggle their grades.

Riverside has a school wide rule that states all athletes must maintain a GPA of 2.0.

Students have to keep this in mind when deciding between going to the big game or studying.

Many students are able to juggle everything perfectly, while others have trouble.

Riverside has an average of 600 student athletes.

Some students also have sports they play outside of school which only adds to the chaos.

For senior Emma Willis, being able to row crew comes with a high price to pay.

Emma practices five days a week at Triangle Rowing Club.

On the days she does not have practice, she chooses to run or workout on the erg, a rowing machine.

“It is very hard to balance crew and school. Ultimately I know

By Emily Eubanks During the past year, the issue of academic dishonesty among college athletes has become a topic that many people are talking about.

Well known universities such as UNC-Chapel Hill have recently been under fire for letting college athletes get credits in classes that they have not earned in order to raise their GPA’s and make them academically eligible to play sports.

All of the publicity makes some people wonder whether college athletes get special privileges in

that school always comes first,” Willis said.

With practice starting at 3:30 p.m. and not ending until 5:45 p.m.

Willis is left with no choice but to get a late start on homework.

“Even though practice ends at 5:45 p.m., I do not get home until 7 every night because it is a 45 minute drive,” Willis said.

After practice, Emma then stays up until 11:30 or 12 at night to finish her homework.

To catch up on extra studying and college applications, many of Emma’s weekends are spent studying.

Even with all of the chaotic tasks in her life, Emma still manages to make good grades.

Unfortunately, the task of juggling grades and sports does not come as easy to some students.

Many students athletes stay after school to get extra help, go to tutoring, or have study sessions to ensure good grades.

Current senior Christian Joy had trouble balancing both football and grades last year.

In an effort to raise his GPA, Joy went to tutoring, took online classes, and turned to his guidance counselor for help.

Joy took geography as online class and it raised his GPA. “Football motivates me to do my best in my classes rather than slacking off,” Joy said.

Now, Joy is back on track and trying his best to make the grades.

To help ease the process, many sports now have after school study halls before their practices start.

Everyday the pirate football players have study hall from 2:45 to 3:20 p.m.

“Because of study hall, I am able to keep my grades up and stay on top of things,” junior Stephan Jacobs said.

For many athletes, grades can determine their futures.

While keeping up grades and playing sports may be a hard task, it has to be done.

their classes.

According to the basketball manager at the University of South Carolina, Josh King, (Riverside ‘09) college athletes do not receive special treatment when it comes to academics. They are expected to attend class regularly and maintain good grades.

“All athletes have their classes checked every day, upon entering and exiting the classroom,” King said.

“If they miss class, they miss practice, which can result in missing games. For every class, players are not allowed to miss any classes,

unless they have a road game or they have the athletic trainers permission,” King said.

In addition to keeping up with school work, athletes also have the challenge of balancing practices and games into their schedule.

“Our guys practice from 3:306:30 p.m. everyday, lift 3-4 hours per week, watch film, and once we get going with games, are at the arena from 1-10 pm, twice a week,” King said.

“Also on the road, we are required to have a 2 hour study hall if it is a weekday game,” King said.

Susannah Roberson, (Riv-

Senior Michael Tillotson goes in for a dunk. Michael maintains good • PHOTO COURTESY OF THE HELM grades while playing basketball.

erside ‘12) a freshman at Duke University, thinks that athletes are expected to do just as much work as average students.

“I have a few college athletes in my classes, but they do not get any special treatment,” Roberson said.

“They participate in class just like the rest of us and act like normal students for the most part,” Roberson said.

They do miss class sometimes for traveling and because of that they may get different assignments,” Roberson said.

"But thats the only thing that sets

them apart.”

Appalachian State freshman Meredith Winkler (Riverside ‘12) agrees with Roberson about athletes being treated the same in her classes.

“I really don’t notice anything different,” Winkler said.

"Since classes are lecture based I don’t see the athletes participating any more or less than I do.

"I don’t know how personal professors get with their students to the point of knowing if they’re on a team. So as far as I know they don’t get special treatment,” Winkler said.

November 2012

17

Balancing Sports

HE AVI S YD SB

“Lehigh is my school, and the rivalry is against Lafayette,” student teacher Hana Baskin said. All of her friends go back for the game each year.

“I go to the tailgate at the start and usually make it into the game by halftime. Then I decide whether it is a win or loss and back out to the tailgate I go,” Baskin said.

People will travel great distances for the games to support their favorite team. It may seem crazy to some to spend hundreds, even thousand of dollars for one game. The importance of the game is to not only bring families and friends together, but to keep them together with one main goal, to watch their team win.

“Basketball is my game, I will record the games or stay up,” English teacher Mira Rahili said. “My mom cannot watch the games. My sister screams and I have to stand up for the last five minutes of each half.”

HIC

powder and dark blue across the chests of students.

“I love the rivalry,” Jacob Eller said. “On gameday I have people over to watch the games, and I pull for Duke.”

English teacher Matthew Smith is part of a different rivalry that includes Louisville, Indiana, and Kentucky.

“This is a cool year because Indiana is ranked 1, Kentucky is ranked 2, and Louisville is ranked 3,” Smith said. “If you ask me, compared to our rivalry, the Duke, UNC and NC State rivalry seems pleasant.”

In many families, family members share different opinions of teams.

“My son is a Tarheel fan, and I don’t know how it happened,” Smith said. “He just decided one day he liked UNC.” Students are not the only ones who have their traditions and rivalries as many teachers have already been pulling for their favorite team for years.

AP

“Woooohoo, Yahhh, nooooooo!” Even through the pouring rain or triple digit heat, shouts of profanity and yells of excitement are heard from the dedicated fans. It must be a rivalry game.In t h e Tr i angle the main rivalry is Duke, UNC, and NC State. One can always tell when it is game day because of the flashes of

•GR

RIC

By Elijah Rodgers

Duke football takes on Carolina at Wallace Wade Stadium in their annual rivalry game for the victory bell and bragging rights among fans. Teachers and students get really involved •PHOTO COURTESY OF JAKE BUTTRY in their team's rivalries and the outcome of the games affects how they interact with each other throughout the school day.

18 Balancing Sports

Pirates' Hookok

For star athletes, off-season never comes

Other athletes participate in multiple school sports to help conCommitted athletes not only dition for the sport they love.

Junior Victoria Pearce, a leader train hard during the season, but they also go above and beyond all on the volleyball team, also plays expectations by working during the lacrosse to help her all around game. Though she says she enjoys off season as well.

Off season training for athletes volleyball more, lacrosse gives her varies. Some train for a single sport a chance to improve her physical all year round, while others train for their main sport by participating in others.

Whether they play other sports or not, good athletes find ways to train throughout the year.

“I never take a break during the year,” freshman wrestler Neo Cruz, Freshman Neo Cruz said. “In the offseason I do lots of upper body stretching with the team, and some conditioning.

“I play lacrosse because it helps martial arts.”

Wrestling is the only sport Cruz me keep in shape for volleyball takes part in at school, but he said while still having a good time,” just focusing on one sport allows Pearce said.

Pearce gets a jumpstart on him to get better in all areas of the sport throughout the year. Cruz can playing school volleyball before focus on improving the sub-par the season starts through playing aspects of his game and perfecting on a club team and participating in open gym sessions. the parts he excels at.

By David McSwain

I never take a break during the year

S

AD

m To

“It does get tiring after a while playing something all the time,” Pearce said.

“I love what I’m doing so much though so it’s ok.”

Junior Cole Whetstone, also a multi-sport athlete, uses swimming as a way to stay in shape year round for his real passion, cross country.

“I’m on the swim team but it is mostly to relax,” Whetstone said.

“I don’t have the pressure to do well like I do in cross country.”

Every athlete has their own way of preparing for their upcoming sports season.

Some play multiple sports while others work to improve their skills in their main sport. All, however, are constantly striving to reach their full potential in whatever sport they love.

s

er y M

Junior Victoria Pearce prepares to serve the ball. All year long atheletes train to get better at their sport.

• PHOTO BY MORGAN SALMON

CULINARY \CAPTAINS

NOVEMBER 2012

19

botany, horticulture and more.” high school to come to the farm on is currently developing an etymol- including business.

The farm will engage students field trips and for the local schools ogy project that could be used for “There will be entrepreneurial With a resounding applause from in interesting learning environ- to have projects in the area. field trips on the farm. work done,” Gill said, “Students the crowd, Superintendent Eric Be- ments and will expose them to the “Having projects already can create a business from the farm Northern high school has recoats made a promise with the crops that will not be forgotthat have been ten. He promised the grown.” new Durham Public Crops Schools farm is here grown on the to stay. land will be “We will not let harvested and this go,” Becoats said sold at farmer’s at the grand opening markets around of the DPS farm on Durham, genSaturday, Oct. 20. erating a profit After over a year of for the farm preparation, the yet and also allowto be named farm ing students to officially began this experience the fall. creation of a The educational business. farm is the first of its The farm kind in the United also encourages States. The Durham healthy habits Public School system for students is the first in the nation across the disto own a farm solely trict. for the use of educaLeaders of tion. the farm want The revolutionary students to see farm is located bewhere their food tween Eno Valley Elcomes from and ementary School and they hope that Carrington Middle this will lead to School on Milton healthier eating Road. habits.

There are two Although the ponds, walking trails, goals for the farm will be used for a biking trails, a barn The DPS farm hold their "Vine Cutting" grand opening with Board Chair Heidi Carter (fourth from right). The•PHOTO farm optimistic,

BY CAMERON MCNEILL variety of educational purposes. and land for agriculthere is still work tural use on the thirty two acres of outdoors. instated their agricultural program designed puts less demand on the to be done to make it a functioning land that will be used by DPS. “There are a lot of different goals because of the recent addition and teachers to come up with what to learning environment.

“The Hub farm will be a center for the farm, but it is mainly to they also plan to add an outdoor do,” Hunter said. Hunter plans to “The grand opening is more of a of learning in multiple areas,” DPS engage students in the outdoors,” education class, which is similar work on the lab over the summer groundbreaking,” Hunter said. chair of education Heidi Carter initiative leader Katherine Gill to an outdoor survival class. and will be at the agricultural site With future improvements, said, “It will teach about local said.

Riverside is also involved with to help perform the project. the DPS farm is sure to be a place food systems, careers, marketing, The plan is to allow students the land.

The farm plans to have labs of great learning and educational carpentry, nutrition, education, from elementary school through Biology teacher Mika Hunter in a variety of vocational areas, developments for years to come.

BY CAMERON MCNEILL

20

Pirates' Hookok

Culinary Captains

By CJ Carpenter Recently in Durham, food trucks have become more popular. With more food trucks in the area, there are more job opportunities for teens in Durham.

Junior Rosa Bestmann works on a food truck once a week.

“I work on the Local Yogurt food truck,” Bestmann said. “My job is to take orders, serve the yogurt, and take phone calls for orders.”

For Bestmann, the experience to work on a food truck fluctuates as some days are good and some days are bad. The heat in the summer and the crammed space inside the truck are some things that make the experience less enjoyable, but she knows that the customers love their food.

Senior Katie Foley has eaten at the Local Yogurt food truck numerous times.

“I like the good, quality food and the service that food trucks provide,”

• PHOTO BY CJ CARPENTER

Foley said.

Local Yogurt is not the only food truck Foley has eaten at. The Only Burger and Pie Pusher trucks are also favorites of hers. Which both, Foley says, provide great service and use great local and healthy ingredients.

Also a food truck fan, junior Stephanie Trefzger, said she has been to Only Burger and it is one of her favorite spots.

“Only Burger is amazing,” Trefzger said. “The food is great and the people are friendly.”

Many people are speculating as to why food trucks have gotten so popular so quickly around Durham.

“I think because people, especially in Durham, are starting to go to the trucks to go against the norm,” Trefzger said. “Also people are starting to become more busy, so food trucks are a convenience.”

“Durham has become more of like a big city, so when people are in a hurry, I see more and more people coming to the truck,” Bestmann said.

Food Trucks are a great way for businesses to spread their name around. Freshman Philip Jones, whose family owns a food truck, says they have benefited a lot from it.

“I know my step-dad is having great success with his food truck,” Jones said. “Every once in awhile they take the truck out and I know that it has helped them advertise to have people come to the actual store.”

Food trucks are starting to have a huge impact on the community.

Teens are trying to find unique, innovative ways to eat what they enjoy. Not only offering good food, food trucks provide healthy ingredients, local products, and friendly people.

Marcos Herrera checks his cooking in Teresa Mugeni Wilson's Food and Nutrition class. Students at Riverside learn about food safety, nutrition and the chemistry of food.

Sophomore Jose Enamorado grew up watching the Food Channel rather than cartoons. He is pursuing a culinary career. "Cooking is an art - it takes a lot of work and practice," Enamorado said.

A scholarship of $1000 has kept Senior Glen Kiem cooking. She won a contest at Chef's Academy that could lead to a scholarship.

"It's hard work, time management and a high stress job, but if it is your passion, go for it," Kiem said.

• PHOTO BY JONATHAN TITUS

November 2012

By Parker Harris

Culinary Captains

by growing food.” Director Emily Egge said.

“It was started by Brenda Brodie and Annice Kenan in 1994,” she said.

Brodie was a community leader of Durham and had a vision of changing lives through gardening.

The thrill of watching a tiny, fragile seed grow into a beautiful, living plant can be unprecedented.

The South-Eastern Efforts Developing Sustainable Spaces program (SEEDS) is an organization that is a community benefactor located in downtown Durham.

“SEEDS is a non profit that promotes respect for • GRAPHIC, PHOTO COURTESY OF SEEDS life on Earth

By Ebony Anderson

ªPHOTO BY EBONY ANDERSON

ing green beans, corn, watermelons and cucumbers.

Before senior Kodi Elliott could “I have worked on the farm ever take her first steps, she was taught since I was in the sixth grade” how to farm. Elliott worked on McKenzie said. She also colher grandmother’s farm for many lected eggs from the chickens, but years, collecther favorite job ing eggs from was to gather the chickens, cucumbers.

“Those were milking the the only ones I cows and feeding the other really liked to animals. pick,” McKenOn their zie said. farm there Sharing a paswere many sion for farming h e l p i n g is sophomore hands.

Taylor Farlow, Senior Kodi Elliot “My mothwho lived on a e r, s i s t e r, family farm. grandmother and I all worked on His family fixed cars, and tractors the farm together,” Elliott said. and tended to all their animals. “We Senior Abigail McKenzie also had chickens, goats, cows and grew grew up on her grandparents’ farm. corn and tomatoes,” Farlow said.

Her grandparents owned 12 cows, “It was a family farm, but along six pigs, 2000 chickens on 75 the sides they had trailers along acres. In their large garden they the road” Farlow said. grew all kinds of vegetables, includOn the farm they fixed cars,

She rented a two-acre plot of land in North East Central Durham for $1 annually. There, the first SEEDS garden was born.

“Brenda is still with us, and Annice still supports us even though she’s moved away.” Egge said.

SEEDS is a very versatile group.

“We run several different programs.” Egge said. “Community Gardeners provides gardens at a low cost for people in the area who don’t have garden space in their homes.”

Kristen Dorsey is a Junior at Riverside who works in the Durham Inner-city Gardeners (DIG) division.

“SEEDS is a program for the

and trackers and tended to all their animals. “We had chickens, goats, cows and grew corn and tomatoes” Farlow said.

Elliott’s grandmother ’s farm was in Texas. “Everything was grown all year long. We also had a greenhouse with crops and summer plants like flowers,” Elliott said.

21

youth to come and garden. It’s a “I spend three days a week workgood learning experience, because ing,” Dorsey said. “Every Saturday you get to learn about new plants I’m at the farmers market.” and gardening techniques.” Dorsey However, Dorsey’s work doesn’t said. interfere with her school or social schedule.

“I like helping the community.

Sometimes I volunteer on my days off,” Dorsey said.

As director, Egge has high hopes for the future of her company.

“We are expanding. We’re well known in the community.” Egge said. “It’s hard to pinpoint one, but our overall goal is to expose people to the benefits of having different Kristen Dorsey ways to access food, to being good Dorsey spends a lot of time work- stewards for our environment on ing at the garden.

Earth.”

They grew corn, tomatoes, cilantro, onions, green peppers, watermelon and peas. “We would use the crops for ourselves and my grandmother sold them to the farmers market,” Elliott said.

McKenzie says she enjoyed her time on the farm

with her grandparents.

“It’s hard, but really fun. The seasons are either really hot or cold. It’s hard to harvest and tending to the animals is hard, too, but you still had to do it in the cold,” McKenzie said.

• GRAPHIC BY AVERY ROBERTS

22

Pirates' Hookok

Sports Briefs

Racing to third place in the PAC-6, the cross country team had another productive season this year.

Led by seniors Karlyn Evans, David Storelli, Ben Evans, Katie Foley, and junior Cole Whetstone, the Pirates earned a 4-2 record in conference play.

Coach Mike Marks attributed the strong finish to the great work ethic of his team.

“We had a very hard-working group that remained dedicated through heat and cold,” Marks said.

Even the veterans on the team worked to improve their race times in order to help the team.

“All of our runners improved their personal best by a significant amount,” Marks said.

Even with the loss of some key seniors, the team will hope for another strong season next year.

By David McSwain

Overcoming low expectations, Women’s Varsity volleyball team finished second in the conference.

“We were doubted by many people this season,” said sophomore Mone’ Jones, a middle blocker.

The team’s season record was 19-5. finishing in the second round of the playoffs.

“We should have started as strong as we finished,” said senior setter Christine Devries.

“Our team chemistry was in sync, like a family”.

Senior middle blocker BriAnna Berry agreed. “We had really good team chemistry”.

Communicating well helped them come back and beat their toughest competitors.

“Jordan and Person were our hardest opponents,” said Devries.

“Our most valuable players were Marissa Mayfield, Victoria Morris, and Devries,” Jones said.

By Kima Clifton

improvement from last year for the varsity soccer team this year.

“If we had stayed in the game mentally, and not given up we would have won a few more games that were close,” junior defender Danny Brossart said. “I feel like we could have done better to finish the regular season.”

Although the season did not go as planned, all was not lost. The team finished third in the Pac 6 and received a state playoff berth.

The team finished the season with a 3-0 loss to Holy Springs in the first round of the state playoffs. The Pirates’ final record for the season was 6-10-0.

By C.J. Carpenter

Homles, Maleake Goldston, and Orville Noble.

Noble’s position this year was right tackle. He enjoyed his time on the field with his friends. Even though the team took a number of loses this season, at the end they showed their Pirate Pride.

“I felt like it was a dream come true and a lot of weight was lifted off my shoulders,” Noble said.

Even though the Pirates did not win many games this season, their last game gave them confidence for the next year’s games.

“Winning this game was still a good ending to our season,” Noble said.

By Ebony Anderson

The girls tennis team (4-6) has A 40-0 blowout rewarded the finished their season. The doubles varsity football team on Senior Night. The game against Jordan was the only win for the season.

In the last game, seniors Johnathan Deluca, Darius Smiley, and Christian Joy scored touchdowns.

There were many seniors who also played in the game, including Sean It was a disappointing year, but an Donahue, Garrett Babinec, Darryl

Although they did not perform as strongly as they would have liked, the field hockey team found the season to be a great bonding experience.

“I had a great time with the other girls on the team this year. It was really fun learning about the sport with them,” freshman Nekesa Schutte said.

With three conference opponents advancing far into the state playoffs, the young team was outmatched experience-wise.

“Half of our starters were new to field hockey so I thought they performed very well especially in as tough of a conference as we were in,” Coach Su Stone said. “I’m looking forward to next season because we have a lot of returners The Pirate football team beat Jordan 40-0 in last game of the season that are really enthusiastic about (above). The Pirate's volleyball team made it to the second round the sport.” of the playoffs. Senior Brianna Berry spikes the ball during a match

By Luke Berndt against Northern.(Right) •PHOTOS BY CHRIS PEREZ

team, consisting of Carly Speight and Leland Macdonald, made it all the way to regionals despite losing six seniors last year.

“The girls played really well this year, I enjoyed coaching all of them,” coach and science teacher Mika Hunter said.

A few players were mentioned for their achivements this season.

Leland Macdonald and Gabby Guiza were named the M.V.Ps of the team, while others were mentioned as great players that contributed to the team this year.

“The boys don’t start their season till February,” Hunter said.

Hunter hopes the boy’s team can do as well this year as all other years, there is always new talent when a new year starts.

By Elijah Rogers

November 2012 ninth grade English students, but other classes attended as well.

The Royal School of Beijing will “It introduced poetry in a combe the classroom for English as pletely different way. It made poetry Second Language student teacher more accessible to students, I think,” Allison McHenry for the next five Librarian Margaret Harrison said. weeks. She has been assigned to a “At the beginning of the assembly, study abroad program in Beijing, they talked about how poetry used China. to be all oral, and how spoken word While in Beijing, McHenry will follows that ancient tradition.” teach English and prepare students By Parker Harris to study at English speaking universities all over the world. She will use a blog to keep contact with her current students.

Thousands of dollars worth of “The study abroad program I’m Microsoft certificates have been doing is much like the ESL program earned by 15 Riverside technology here in America. The students will students. have been taking English before, The MOS certifications are but it is far from perfect,” McHenry designed for those individuals or said. “I’ll especially have to work persons who want expertise in on their writing abilities since their accomplishing essential job tasks language is so far from ours.” across multiple programs in the McHenry will also have time Microsoft Office system. to tour the country and learn from “The company has certifications their culture. for the professionals in its industry.

By Benjamin Peters High schools offer different programs, which gives students opportunities to become certified for free.

Post graduation, these certifications Riverside’s Habitat for Humanity club raised over $350 to go towards a needy family of Durham.

They used mini-houses during first periods to collect loose change.

Mr. Davidson’s first period collected the most change, winning the challenge. They will receive a breakfast for their support. The money will be put towards building a new house for the family.

“We were really excited to raise money for needy families of Durham,” junior MaryBeth McAllister said.

By Casie Bickers Poetry, an ancient form of expression, infiltrated Riverside on Monday, Oct. 29.

The assembly was presented by the Sacrificial Poets, a Chapel Hill based company that promotes spoken word artists in the area.

The presentation was aimed at

News Briefs after high school will range from $500 to $3,000.” computer teacher Tonya Arrington said.

Students for this semester who have taken the test and been certified are Beverly Thompson, Tamara Dixon, Davis Heric, Mark Gutay, Matthew Parker, Jared Kirtchman, Desire Sumpter, Bobby Ghanayem, Cheyenne Weeks, Sydney Prewitt, Perla Soria Fuentes, Martin Yalda, Makayla Taylor, Renae Taylor, and Janel Duarte.

"This award will help me while I major in accounting,” senior Cheyenne Weeks said.

By Crystal Whitaker

from hot packs and hand sanitizer to DVDs and games.”

Donations are to be delivered to room 165 by Dec. 5. Toiletries and other necessities are desired, but entertainment items are also greatly appreciated.

“Shipping is expensive, but we use flat rate boxes that are $14.00.

Luckily we can fit as much as we can in those boxes,” Roeber said.

“I’m hoping people will also donate money to help with the shipping.”

By Davis Heric

Performers will be singing from their souls’ and Shaking it out’

during the chorus and dance per Last holiday season, the formances this fall.

“Treasures for Troops” drive was Music in my Soul, the chorus a success, and it is carrying on show, will feature fast and slow once again this year. Social Studies songs, guest musicians, and a mix teacher Pat Roeber led the drive in of instruments including drums the past, and this year he is rallying and piano. the Riverside community yet again to make donations.

“Last year it did way better than I thought it would,” Roeber said, “We received donations varying

Students watch a drum circle outside of the cafeteria during lunch.

Drummers Braima Moiwai and Pline Mounze teach the traditional beats.

Sarah Solie was one of three students to win second place at the NC State Fair. Solie's photograph is to the right.

• PHOTOS BY CHRIS PEREZ

23

“I am really excited about the show and the students,” chorus teacher Jill Boliek said. “The students have worked very hard to make the chorus show a hit.”

The theme of the dance show is Shake It Out. The show will include Jazz, African, Contemporary, Ballet, Tap Hip Hop, and Lyrical dances.

The students will also show their own choreography.

“Please come and support the dance department,” dance teacher Kristen Taylor said. “It will be a great concert, you don’t want to miss it.”

The chorus show is on Nov. 16 and 17 at 7:00 pm. Admission for adults is $8 and students $5. Staff is free.

The dance show will start at 7 pm on Dec. 7 and 8. Tickets will be $5 for everyone.

By Joanna Rivas

24

Pirates' Hookok

• PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE HELM AND BY CHRIS PEREZ