D
Dialogue//Dec. 21, 2016
ACADEMICS
IT'S A PROMISE
PAGE 8 » Michigan
Gov. Rick Snyder visits CMA to announce expansion of the Detroit College Promise.
THE STUDENT VOICE OF DETROIT’S HIGH SCHOOLS
SOMETHING ABOUT SCIENCE PAGE 5 » Benjamin Carson High School freshmen get a cool lesson in chemistry at Wayne State University.
DETROIT
MEET THE MAYOR
PAGE 2 & 3 » Members of the Dialogue staff spoke with Mike Duggan about important issues in Detroit.
A PUBLICATION OF
SPORTS
PARADE OF CHAMPIONS
PAGE 26 & 27 » City celebrates football titles with parade down Woodward.
CRAIN MICHIGAN STATE UNIVERSITY DETROIT HIGH SCHOOL JOURNALISM
D
2 DetroitDialogue.com Dec. 21, 2016 DETROIT
MEET THE
MAYOR Dialogue Vol. II, No. 2 | Dec 21, 2016
Detroit Dialogue is published by Crain Michigan State University Detroit High School Journalism to showcase the work of student journalists in the city of Detroit. Dialogue has been established as a forum for student expression and as a voice in the uninhibited, robust, free and open discussion of issues.
All content is prepared by students at participating Detroit high schools. Students receive advice and training from program staff and professional journalists from Crain Communications Inc. throughout the publication process. Michigan State University, Crain Communications and participating schools assume no liability for the content of Dialogue, and urge all student journalists to recognize that with editorial control comes responsibility, including the responsibility to follow professional journalism standards.
ABOUT CRAIN MSU DETROIT HIGH SCHOOL JOURNALISM Crain MSU Detroit High School Journalism enriches the educational experiences of students in the city of Detroit. Our work brings high school students together with professional journalists, Michigan State University faculty members and MSU journalism students to produce a newspaper and news website about the issues affecting students’ schools and their peers. The program is coordinated by the faculty of the School of Journalism at MSU with the support of Detroitbased Crain Communications Inc. and other partners throughout Southeast Michigan.
OUR TEAM Joy Visconti, joyvis@msu.edu Director, Crain MSU Detroit High School Journalism
7
Jeremy W. Steele, steelej @msu.edu Scholastic journalism outreach coordinator, MSU School of Journalism Joe Grimm, jgrimm@msu.edu Program adviser & editor in residence, MSU School of Journalism
DESIGN Haley Kluge, Presentation Editor Sarah Goodyear, Kent Kubani, Eric Schwartz, Taylor Skelton and Katie Winkler The Edmund C. Arnold Chapter of the Society for News Design at Michigan State University
SUPPORTED BY
Duggan host editorial board meeting for Dialogue reporters and editors
By Micah Simpson The Communicator The voices of the Detroit Dialogue met with Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan on Dec. 9. The informative meeting allowed student journalists to ask questions about critical issues facing young Detroiters. Each participating high school was permitted to attend this event. “This was a first for aspiring journalist, to have the opportunity for teens to interview and discuss the future of our city was landmark,” Communications & Media Arts junior Nya Cox said. There were many pressing questions the writers and editors had for the mayor, such as the topic of gentrification in Detroit, the state of the city’s police department, fire and EMS, and the efforts to decrease the
number of abandoned houses in neighborhoods. The discussion went on for an hour, students sitting with the mayor at a round table. Duggan explained his vision for Detroit’s future and how he would like to base the city’s school district on a Washington, D.C. model.
Communication & Media Arts “I want to create advantages in Detroit where there are disadvantages,” Duggan said. “I am glad to see that our leaders are including the youth in the discussion for improving our community, we are the future,” said Tarious Porter, a CMA senior and editor of the Dialogue’s CMA Communicator.
DETROIT
Four more questions By Jasmine Jordan, RHS Stentor On Dec. 9, student journalists from Detroit were invited to meet Mayor Mike Duggan and ask questions about the city and recent developments. With many student journalists posing questions, there was limited time for follow up. Four questions in particular were not sufficiently addressed:
1
What will you do to ensure that black businesses are welcome downtown?
According to NBC News, in 2015, there were 32,000 black businesses in Detroit -- 44 were downtown. If downtown is becoming a hotspot for new businesses, why isn’t its success being equally proportioned to black-owned businesses? Mayor Duggan’s attendance at the openings of “three black businesses” last week is not enough in a city that is 83% black.
2
How can we make Detroit’s “comeback” proportionate to all neighborhoods?
Detroit is a big city. However, there are whole neighborhoods and blocks that have not been touched by revitalization efforts since the mayoral elections in 2013. “One step at a time” works for some. While housing in Midtown and downtown boom with developments, some streets on the east side still have but one house per block. Surely, the progress of the city extends to all neighborhoods and all Detroiters.
THE COMMUNICATOR
Students ask Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan a question during an editorial board meeting on Dec. 9 at City Hall.
3
How does the definition of gentrification not apply to Detroit?
Throughout the meeting, Duggan reiterated that Detroit is not going through gentrification. “The definition of gentrification is when poor people are pushed out and richer people are moved in,” he said. “That’s not happening here.” The rent for apartments in Detroit has continued to grow exponentially, with the cost rising 6% in just the last year, according to Metro Times. People in the downtown and Midtown neighborhood earn on average 25% more than those who live in other parts of the city. The rising cost of living forces poorer people out of these popular areas. That is the mayor’s own definition of gentrification. How exactly is gentrification not happening?
4
Are you running for reelection? If so, what’s your platform?
Duggan has said that he will not announce this decision until the end of the 2016. Another Democratic candidate, Deyonna Harvey, has announced her bid for mayor. Harvey is a Detroiter who has lived with the problems that students expressed at the Dec. 9 meeting with Duggan. Students reiterated the concern that long-time residents and native Detroiters have been left out of development plans. While Harvey is not a politician, and while Duggan may not consider her a threat in his bid for reelection, many Detroiters identify with her experiences. She interested in helping those in the “Old Detroit” predicament, as she herself is in a similar position.
CRAIN MSU DETROIT HIGH SCHOOL JOURNALISM PARTICIPATING SCHOOLS Benjamin Carson School for Science & Medicine Principal Charles Todd Cass Technical High School Principal Lisa Phillips Communication & Media Arts High School Principal Donya Odom
Detroit Cristo Rey High School Principal Susan Rowe Detroit International Academy for Young Women Principal Pamela Askew Douglass Academy Principal Berry Greer
East English Village Preparatory Academy Principal Charlene Mallory
University Preparatory Academy High School Principal Camille Hibbler
Martin Luther King Jr. Senior High School Principal Deborah Jenkins
West Side Academy Principal Andrea Ford-Ayler
Renaissance High School Principal Anita Williams
THANK YOU TO OUR CRAIN MENTORS AND SUPPORTERS In addition to the professional mentors listed along with student staff members in this publication, we wish to thank the following Crain employees for their assistance: KC Crain, Jason Stein, Krishnan Anantharaman, Kristen Pantalena, Eric Cedo, Phil Nussel, Jennette Smith and Dan Jones.
Dec. 21, 2016 DetroitDialogue.com 3 DETROIT
Detroit’s renaissance recreates historic racial divide By Sage Sanders RHS Stentor Detroit is emerging as predominant place of sporting events, nightlife and commerce. But the result of Detroit’s growth has made life a lot harder for many groups native to the city. Gentrification, or the displacement of lower income residents and businesses for more affluent or wealthy residents, often means white people are taking over the living and working spaces of black people. A sit-down with Mayor Mike Duggan on Dec. 9 revealed the complexity of managing a city on the rise and decline. In the 50’s, vast amounts of white citizens and families sought suburban comforts and moved out of the city, a move known as the White Flight. The exodus was muddled in racist housing policy and lending practices, lasting racial tensions, and ideas an “American dream.”
Renaissance Business Insider reports: “Detroit went from a thriving hub of industry with a population of 1.8 million in 1950 to a city of roughly 680,000 in 2014…the city’s population has gone from nearly 84% white to a little less than 13% white.” With the population loss went jobs. “Between 1947 and 1963, Detroit lost 140,000 manufacturing jobs,” said historian Thomas Sugrue in an 2013 AP article. It is odd, however, that as residents and opportunity return to Detroit, the groups previously barred from leaving the city are left out of the new developments. With business opportunities popping up throughout the city, people are now making their ways back into Detroit, buying up living spaces and businesses once owned or rented by blacks. But Mayor Duggan finds that opportunity is growing for all, mentioning that he had been to 3 openings of African-Americanowned businesses in the last week. He believes the city is basically doing what it can to solve the housing and opportunity gaps. “We have probably got 40 or 50 houses that are occupied today that were vacant … for 50 straight years, people were moving out. My goal is to reverse the decline ... one vacant house at a time,” Duggan said. See Divides on page 19 »
DETROIT
MAYOR SPEAKS ON CITY, SCHOOLS
THE COMMUNICATOR
UPrep students met Mayor Mike Duggan on Dec. 9. Senior Breann Barge, sophomore Rejoyce Douglas and senior Amiri Gollman asked the mayor insightful questions about living in Detroit.
DETROIT
Students nervous, excited to meet mayor
THE COMMUNICATOR
Benjamin Carson senior and Diagnostic editor-in-chief Sharron Reed-Davis asks Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan a question.
By Lamont Clingman and Sharron Reed-Davis The Diagnostic On Dec. 9, journalism students who participate in the Crain MSU Detroit High School Journalism Program had an opportunity to meet with Detroit’s mayor, Mike Duggan. We felt very grateful, enthusiastic, and eager for this opportunity to represent Benjamin Carson High School and the Diagnostic. When first meeting the mayor we were nervous, but excited to hear what things he had to say. Upon entering the room the mayor immediately started to greet the students with handshakes, asking their name and what school they attended. He seemed so interested to meet the students and learn about them and where they come from. This is a good characteristic for a mayor to have. The meeting kicked off with the first question from our newspaper: “What is your day to day routine?” “I make a goal each week; 20% of my time in meetings , 20% with my staff, and 60% working on community projects,” said Duggan said. “One day a week I still do house parties.”
The mayor brought up the externship program that he helped negotiate with the Detroit Medical Center and Benjamin Carson. “How’s the program with the DMC going?” he inquired.
Benjamin Carson He also mentioned the Certified Nurse Assistant Program that BCHS recently acquired. We explained to him that BCHS is an awesome place to attend when it comes to pursuing the science and medical fields, but it is also great for other fields because we have opportunities like the dual enrollment program with Wayne County Community College, which allows students to get college credit before they graduate. Overall, this was an amazing opportunity for us, and we are grateful to the mayor for taking time out of his busy schedule to meet with us. We also send out an open invitation for him and his wife to come visit our school, and see our students first hand as they experience our unique programs.
4 DetroitDialogue.com Dec. 21, 2016
THE DIAGNOSTIC Benjamin Carson High School of Science and Medicine | carsondiagnostic.com ACADEMIC
ONE STEP CLOSER
White Coat Ceremony celebrates sophomores By Katlyn Day Lamont Clingman The Diagnostic Benjamin Carson High School of Science and Medicine held their 5th annual White Coat Ceremony On November 30, 2016. This ceremony was held at Spain Elementary/Middle School to celebrate the sophomores. The White Coat Ceremony has been held yearly ever since Benjamin Carson first opened in 2011. “The White Coat Ceremony is inspired by the ceremony that they have at medical school,” said Kristen Maher, Dean of Instruction. Medical schools traditionally conduct a white coat ceremony to celebrate a rite of passage and welcome students to the medical profession. It symbolizes authority and professionalism. This year’s white coat ceremony at Benjamin Carson opened with the hosts Sharron Reed-Davis and Robert Williams III, two Benjamin Carson High School seniors. Next came Benjamin Carson High School’s NJROTC Color Guard presenting the nation’s colors, led by Petty Officer Williams and Petty Officer J ustice, NJROTC instructors. Then the National Anthem was performed by Ben Carson senior V’Necia Dupree. This was followed by a warm welcome by Principal Charles Todd who gave words of encouragement for the sophomores. Throughout the duration of the program there were many guest
THE DIAGNOSTIC
Benjamin Carson sophomores enjoy their new white coats.
speakers, including Dr. Norris Polk who is the Associate Medical Officer and Pediatrics Division Chief for the Detroit Community Health Connection. The White Coat Ceremony at Benjamin Carson High School is the first step for students’ careers in the medical field. After the students received their white coats they were led in the Pledge of Professionalism by senior class president Nyah Kidd. “My hope is that the ceremony makes the students mature a little more, makes them more serious about their studies, and makes them think about their futures and what they want to pursue,” said Maher.
“I honestly liked it. The ceremony felt so long, but at the end it was all worth it. I loved the inspiring speeches and I felt like an actual doctor…. Dr. Ruma here!” said Ruma Tahar, sophomore, about her experience at the white coat ceremony. “It was pretty good,” said Mustafizur Rahman, sophomore. “I didn’t plan on going at first, but I’m glad I did. It felt special to be a part of the white coat ceremony. It made me feel professional.” Sophomore Zahra Cham said, “When I received my white coat, I felt like I was official and I’m headed to being a doctor.”
ELECTION 2016
Students voice views after election By Wynter Danley The Diagnostic On the morning of Sept. 9, the world was changed. The presidentelect, chosen by the electoral college, was Donald J. Trump. How do political changes affect high school students? There is a lot of worry about discrimination among females and immigrant students. “There will be a lot more discrimination,” Benjamin Carson ninth grader Yoma Begum said. “I feel like my children will be discriminated against because they’ll be people of color,” said Begum. Senior Angel Cosby is worried about living in this country as a African-American female. She said after seeing the election results, “I told my family I was going to get a job and a passport and move to Canada or South Korea.” She also expressed not wanting to have children in a world that will be influenced by Trump’s victory.
Cosby said, “I’m scared to have kids. The racists are going to come out more.” “I feel like, since Trump is homophobic, laws for the LGBT community will change,” said Benjamin Carson senior Chris Bryant, a 17-year old Hillary Clinton supporter. In the past month since the election results were aired, according to Forbes, there have been 280 reported antiimmigrant hate crimes in the US. In addition, there were 187 reported hate crimes against African Americans and 95 against the LGBT community nationwide. In total, there have been about 900 incidents. The majority occurred after Nov. 9. “He won the election fair and square, so he deserves a chance,” said Xavier Jack, president of Benjamin Carson’s Gay Straight Alliance club. “If he says he’s going to end hate crimes, he should have the opportunity to do so.”
STUDENT LIFE
Colds, viruses, and the flu ... Oh my! By Sharron Reed-Davis The Diagnostic The cold and flu season has arrived. During this time people, mainly students, are more susceptible to colds and viruses. Medical professionals have valuable advice on how to stay healthy this winter. Some of the main things students
could do to protect themselves include: » Washing hands as often as possible » Covering mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing » Disinfecting surfaces that are frequently touched See Sick on page 23 »
ACADEMIC
History teacher wins $2,000 in school supplies By Camryn Walker and Shontell Butts The Diagnostic Several weeks ago junior Hafizur Rahman from Benjamin Carson High School wrote an essay about history teacher Cody Lown for a contest from Comerica Bank called the “Tools for Schools Contest.” Rahman won the contest for his 400-word essay about Lown. The contest asked students to write about how their chosen teacher made an impact on their life and why they think
the particular teacher deserved school supplies in their classroom. The grand prize was $2,000 worth of school supplies, which included paper, pencils, binders, a laptop and much more. “We wanted to support the teachers who have been making a difference and are committed to the students,” said Patricia McCann, Comerica Bank National Employee Volunteer Program Manager. “There were over 80 entries and we were selecting one from each county. We had a panel of
THE DIAGNOSTIC
judges and we had interviewed each of the nominations for the particular teacher,” said McCann. Lown said he appreciated the award. “We have extension cords and we can use technology around the room and it’s going to make the classroom more effective for learning,” Lown said. “My advisory teacher told me about the contest,” said Rahman. “Her name is Michelle Schwendemann and she explained that there is an opportunity for teachers to get
Editor-in-chief: Sharron ReedDavis and Alexis Williams Adviser: Grace Walter Photo Editor: Lamont Clingman Crain Mentors: Shiraz Ahmed & Vince Bond
scholarships and I already knew that I had a teacher in mind that I wanted to do it on.” In Rahman’s essay he wrote about how Lown sets a good example for his students. “He has aided me in thriving in academics and acquiring skills and abilities, including being a collaborative member, being responsible for my own actions, networking, proper, communication, and being a leader,” wrote Rahman. See Supplies on page 20 »
THE DIAGNOSTIC
Social Studies Teacher Cody Lown works with a student at Benjamin Carson High School.
Staff: Meer Alrafee, Shontell Butts, Krysten Cannon, Lamont Clingman, Wynter Danley, Asia Davis, Katlyn Day, Harrold Hardaway, Anthony Hurst, Richkiyah Jackson, Ronniseia Jones, Alaysha Lewis, Shania Mennis, Kelly Meriweather, Fahim Miah, Stephon Parham, Damon Phillips, Roosevelt Porter, Mod Rahman, Saaheim Rivera, Keundra Sanders, Alexander Sims, Andre Smith, Dwight Thomas, Camryn Walker, Justin Watson, David Whiteside, Christopher Williams and Nadiea Williams
Dec. 21, 2016 DetroitDialogue.com 5
Color changing experiments were among the most popular during freshmen's visit to Wayne State.
COOL ACADEMIC
SCIENCE
Freshmen visit Wayne State chemistry department. For full story, see page 22.
THE DIAGNOSTIC
Students were able to observe the complexities of a real working laboratory.
Freshmen did real science experiments in a college lab environment.
6 DetroitDialogue.com Dec. 21, 2016 DETROIT
My Brother’s Keeper Alliance invests in Detroit’s youth Job & Opportunity Summit held at COBO center in November By Jalen Newton CT Visionary Founded in February 2014 by President Barack Obama, the My Brother’s Keeper Initiative (MBK) was launched to address persistent opportunity gaps faced by boys and young men of color. Over 250 communities in all 50 states have begun implementing innovative approaches to open doors, and build many ladders of opportunity for boys and young men of color. On Monday, Nov. 14, The City of Detroit hosted the My Brother’s Keeper Alliance Job & Opportunity Summit at the COBO center. Nearly 1100 young men and women of color [between the ages of 18 and 29] engaged with 42 major companies for on-thespot hiring and career exploration activities, resulting in over 350 job offers to Detroit youth. It was an ever-expanding list of
employer partners that provided on-the-spot job offers and/or career support and exploration activities at the summit which included: Applebee’s, Chipotle Mexican Grill, City of DetroitHumans Rights Department, COBO, Detroit School for Digital Technology, Detroit Water and Sewage Dept., Starbucks, Lyft, FedEx, Macy’s, Walgreens, Sprint, Barton Malow, Red Lobster, Little Caesars, Uber, CVS Health, Henry Ford Health System, J&G Pallets, Meijer, Lions, Palace Sports & Entertainment, UPS, Shinola, and many more. I was fortunate enough to land a job with Starbucks Corporation, after also interviewing with Walgreens and Palace Sports. The opportunity was very enlightening and I gained a great deal of knowledge about major corporations, interviewing and
network skills; and I also had a great interview with Roop Raj from FOX 2 News. Obama said during the My Brother’s Keeper Alliance Launch Event on May 5, 2015, “This will remain a mission for me and for Michelle not just for the rest of my presidency, but for the rest of my life.” Making sure that young men of color likelihood of enrolling college and increase opportunity for young men of color. Following the Job & Opportunity Summit, Detroit Youth could enjoy breakfast with Mayor Mike Duggan, Dan Gilbert (owner of Quicken Loans), Tonya Allen, and Blair Taylor CEO of MBKA. Mayor Duggan stated in the press conference that followed, “This economic comeback isn’t going to mean a thing if the people they’ve stayed here all
SPORTS
CT VISIONARY
Founded in February 2014 by President Barack Obama, the My Brother’s Keeper Initiative (MBK) was launched to address persistent opportunity gaps faced by boys and young men of color.
these years are left behind … we’ve had 8,000 young people hired this summer. The city of Detroit’s Director of Youth Services, Ricardo Marable, made a commitment to come to Cass Tech in February to sign students up for the Grow Detroit’s Young Talent summer employment (email for more info at: marbler@detroitmi.gov).
Overall, I believe that Detroit Youth will be able to find success in obtaining summer employment if they stay on top of the upcoming events sponsored by the MBK Alliance and Grow Detroit’s Young Talent as they will have the opportunity to gain employment. For more information about the Summit go to http://www. mbkalliance.org.
ACADEMIC
How I received a 5.0 Cass Tech's International Baccalaureate program allows students to get ahead
CT VISIONARY
Although Cass Tech’s Jaylen Kelly-Powell and MLK’s Ambry Thomas have been playing together since little league, the two attended different high schools. Recently they announced the University of Michigan will be their home for the next few years as they both plan to enroll in January.
From Detroit to Ann Arbor:
Ambry Thomas and Jaylen Kelly Powell By CT Visionary Staff Detroit Public Schools Community District is the largest district in Michigan and is also the most heavily populated African-American district in the nation. With over 47,000 students, the district has an array of challenges and triumphs, and the 2016 football season was a historical triumph with two Detroit public school teams winning state titles. It was the third time Martin Luther King, Jr. Senior High School (Div. 2] and Cass Tech High School (Div. 1) have won Michigan High School Athletic Association championships. Defying the stereotypes of low academic achieving student-
athletes; CT’s Jaylen Kelly-Powell has maintained a 4.0 grade-point average, while Donovan PeoplesJones held firm at a 3.9, and King’s Ambry Thomas will finish with a 3.2. Kelly-Powell received the most scholarship offers in the state with 43. Thomas was right behind him with 42 scholarship offers and Peoples-Jones had 26 offers. Kelly-Powell and Thomas have played on the same little league team and met when they were only 2 years old. A state title is not the only thing the two athletes share, their bond is as thick as blood. “It was pretty fun playing against each other in high school, he makes me better and I make
him better. Even though went to different schools we always look out for each other and make sure nobody gets hurt,” said KellyPowell. The two will be reunited in college after they both committed to play for the University of Michigan. They will be enrolling early in January to prepare early for the fall season. Peoples-Jones will join them. The No. 1 wide receiver in the country, PeoplesJones committed to Michigan live on ESPN2 on Dec. 15. Kelly-Powell attributes his success to his Detroit education. “My success says a lot about the football programs in Detroit that anybody can make it,” he said.
By Hunter Phelps CT Visionary Cass Technical High School affords its students the opportunity to go above and beyond to reach some of the highest grade point averages (GPA) in the nation. Cass is the only DPS-CD school authorized for the International Baccalaureate program. As an International Baccalaureate (IB) and Advanced Placement (AP) college-preparatory institution, if students receive all A’s, while challenging themselves with rigorous AP or IB courses, it is possible to receive a 5.0 GPA. The International Baccalaureate program is a nonprofit educational foundation offering programs that develop various social skills and diverse courses needed to globalize the world. Just like the Advanced Placement Program, IB students receive an extra percentage point that raises their GPA in order to receive grade point averages higher than a 4.0. Cass Tech’s instructional specialist and International Baccalaureate leader, Sherise Hedgespeth, said “colleges offer all kind of scholarships to full diploma students and à la carte students.” She added, “colleges waive certain IB classes, and students can start college courses as a second or third year student.” I received a 5.0 GPA throughout my entire junior year at Cass, and although it
was absolutely challenging for me; I have had to realize that school is all about balance. My goal was to balance academics, extra-curricular activities and prepare for college standardized testing. Obtaining a 5.0 also includes focus. My school work, along with applying to colleges and scholarships, has been demanding. There are times when I may have an abundance of homework and at the same time scholarship deadlines, which can be very time-consuming; my goal is to accomplish both. Although some students may not favor an arduous, stressful school curriculum, I believe the challenges they face are helping to mold their critical thinking skills, which will allow them to succeed in college. When I enter college in the fall of 2017, I know I will be prepared for whatever comes my way. Cass Tech senior Ricky Alvarez, who received a 4.85 GPA this past quarter said, “The biggest challenge I always face during the first quarter is having to keep my grades up during the soccer season. Daily involvement in practices and games, along with my leadership positions in the National Honor Society, Red Cross, and the Latino Culture Club, can be pretty timeconsuming. I didn’t reach my goal of getting straight As this See GPA on page 19 »
Dec. 21, 2016 DetroitDialogue.com 7
CT VISIONARY
TECHNICALLY SPEAKING A public forum for the community of Cass Technical High School | ctvisionary.com ACADEMIC
Putting the tech back in Cass Tech
Science department recipient of $300,000 grant to continue technological curriculum
By Joi Arnold CT Visionary On Nov. 2, Cass Tech senior Johnathan Jackson met former President Bill Clinton at Fellowship Chapel in Detroit while on the Presidential campaign trail with his wife, Democratic candidate Hillary Clinton. Jackson’s school pride was glaring because of the CT Academic Games sweatshirt he was wearing. Clinton took notice and asked Jackson,“Do you like the tech school?” Jonathan replied, “Yes I do sir.” President Clinton responded, “I do as well because they are hard working and help bring technology to most of their students.” Clinton now has another reason to be impressed with “the tech school.” In August of 2016 a group of Cass Tech science teachers found out that they were awarded a $300,000 grant as part of an initiative DPSCD’s Steve Wasko oversaw for six schools within the district. “Cass Tech received a grant because we have developed an innovative way to improve our engineering department and this program is an internationally known program that has yielded excellent results in the last several years,” said vice principal Velma Snow. The innovative ways that Cass Tech has incorporated into the curriculum came from Project Lead the Way (PLTW), is a national organization that develops Science, Technology, Engineering and Math curriculas in schools and provides professional development training. Cass Tech has added two new STEM Pathways: Biomedical Science and Computer Science to add new STEM Courses to the curriculum. Five of CT’s
CT VISIONARY
On Wednesday, November 2, Cass Tech senior Johnathan Jackson met former United States President Bill Clinton, at Fellowship Chapel in Detroit while on the Presidential campaign trail with his wife, Democratic candidate Hillary Clinton.
Science teachers were involved in intense training so that the 1st year could be offered and they verified the importance of the curriculum. “I think this program is important because it gives the students a really project based curriculum so that instead of just reading or having some activities they’re really just learning by exploring,” Biology teacher Katherine Teany said. “As the teacher, my job is to facilitate that type of learning instead of just giving them information and having them find out on their own and sort of guiding them.” Quantitative Analysis and Chemistry teacher Nathaniel Lewis added: “I think the Computer Science Principles class is important because it
“Cass Tech received a grant because we have developed an innovative way to improve our engineering department and this program is an internationally known program that has yielded excellent results in the last several years.” Vice principal Velma Snow
gives students real world experiences, they can apply concepts to create items that are sold in the market place a nd they can take those experiences and actually apply them for job opportunities. This is similar to vocational education experience.” “Engineers create 90% of the jobs, that students are going to be able to get when they get out of high school, but only 4 percent of the population -- so we need
to create more engineers,” International Baccalaureate Physics and Robotics teacher Karl Balke said. “The new STEM courses at Cass Technical High School empower students with indemand, transportable skills, engage them in transformative learning experiences and prepare them for leading STEM jobs today and tomorrow,” Snow said. Johnathan Jackson contributed to this report.
Editor In Chief: Kaelyn Collins Social Media Editor: Joi Arnold Community Editor: MacKenzie Galloway Sports Editor: Kaelyn Collins Photography Editor: Jasmine James Photographers: Daniel Square & Rodney Coleman Sports Social Media Department: Amyre Brandom and Rodney Coleman Researchers: Karen Cyars Adviser: Erika Jones Crain Mentor: Don Loepp
STUDENT LIFE
Cass Tech senior open house By Jasmine Jones CT Visionary In June, Cass Tech principal Lisa Phillips hosted the first “Bridging the Gap -- Senior Open House” for Graduates Program in the CT Media Center. The program was developed after Phillips saw some deserving Technicians in need prior to their matriculation to college. Although the majority of graduating seniors at Cass are awarded scholarships and financial aid; the need for dormitory essentials is rarely addressed. Phillips reached out to DPS staff members, parents, alumni, community, FordUAW City Council and corporate partners, just to name a few. Members of Triumph Church, doctors from the University of Michigan, Detroit families and Cass Alumni teamed up to equip 185 students with bedding sets, microwaves, linen and dorm essentials. “I have had the opportunity to see so many students do the right thing by enrolling into four-year colleges and universities and they have secured internships and other employment opportunities. But not everyone knows the struggle to move into dorm life is another struggle. I am proud of this initiative and hope to encourage more people to sponsor a deserving senior in the Class of 2017. My target for this year is to deliver care packages to students not just in Cass, but across the district who have been admitted to college and earned grants and scholarships.” If you would like to make a donation or sponsor a future leader of tomorrow, please contact Cass Tech Office Administrator LuCretia Harris at 313.263.2074 or email Principal Phillips directly at lisa. phillips@detroitk12.org.
Staff: Kennedy Adams, Chance Carson, Jada Flowers, Eymon Hegler, Johnathan Jackson, Clarissa Kitching, Jalen Newton, Hunter Phelps, Torrance Smith-Wilson, Morgan Threatt, Miracle Stokes, Nia Williams, Arlaya Worthen
8 DetroitDialogue.com Dec. 21, 2016
THE COMMUNICATOR
A public forum for the students and community of Communication and Media Arts High School | cmacommunicator.com DETROIT
CMA unites for annual Canned Food Drive By Kenyetta Henderson The Communicator The spirit of Christmas and giving inspired the 6th Annual Canned Food Drive together with Gleaners Community Food Bank where many Communication & Media Arts High School students donated thousands of canned goods to the homeless. The donations included:
canned fruits, ravioli, vegetables and even Vienna sausages. With it being the season of giving CMA students banded together to try and create a great holiday experience for the less fortunate. “It’s nice to know that my small act of kindness can make such a big difference, said Briana Underwood, a CMA senior. After falling short of the 2015
donation goal of 5,000 canned goods, CMA Vice Principal Cox set a new goal of 4,000. “Homelessness is real and not something people want,”” said senior Traymani Thomas. “Nothing really hurts as much as seeing someone in open air with no place to go or no food to eat.” CMA vice principal Cox and students gather canned goods for the less fortunate.
THE COMMUNICATOR
CMA vice principal Cox and students gather canned goods for the less fortunate.
DETROIT
DETROIT
College students go hungry
THE COMMUNICATOR
Gov. Rick Synder, Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan, and Superintendent Alycia Meriweather were among the top Michigan officials who gathered at Communication & Media Arts High School on Nov. 28 to announce an update to the Detroit College Promise.
Top officials visit CMA By Mason Simpson and Sarah Wright The Communicator Paying for college is a strenuous task, but it could be getting easier for students in the Detroit Public Community Schools District thanks to an expansion of the Detroit College Promise. The program, which previously provided students two-year scholarships to community
colleges, will now include fouryear colleges and universities. Gov. Rick Synder, Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan, and Superintendent Alycia Meriweather were among the top Michigan officials who gathered at Communication & Media Arts High School on Nov. 28 to present the updated program. Detroit Regional Chamber officials, the media and college representatives who worked on the
THE COMMUNICATOR
project gathered at CMA for the announcement. Speakers included college freshmen Malik Stroughther and Portia Anderson, who have received the promise, Dr. Dan Hugley, Ralph Bland, Dr. Patrick McNaly, and Sandy Baruah. Detroit was among the first cities in America to get full tuition coverage for community colleges through a scholarship program. “The essence of Detroit is the
people of Detroit,” Snyder said. The Promise scholarship prerequisites for community college funding requires at least a 2.5 grade-point average and a score of 18 on the ACT or a SAT equivalent of 950. For four-year colleges and universities, at least an ACT score of 21 or a SAT equivalent of 1070 with a 3.0 grade-point average is needed. “You have the opportunity,” Duggan said.
Editors: Taylor Ephriam, Tarious Porter, Michael Underwood Corresponding Editors: Amanda Duren, Karmen Hardaway Photographers: Tatyanna Brown, Deandre Finch, Xavier Hollis, Reginald Street Adviser: Robbyn Williams Crain Mentor: Ursula Zerilli
By Miaun McCloud The Communicator As if balancing the stress of a heavy work load, keeping grades up, and tuition payments aren’t enough, many college students throughout America are starving. “I would feel like I need to go back to momma and daddy and survive off them,» said senior Lapria Junior, who will soon be a college freshman. Universities are accepting more and more low-income students; yet the price of a higher education is steadily rising. According to the 2015 Census Bureau, the average total cost at public universities rose 10 percent over the past five years and 12 percent in private colleges. The average tuition for private colleges is approximately $45,370 a year. A survey conducted by the National Student Campaign Against Hunger and Homeless revealed that 44 percent of college students ate less or skipped meals and 35 percent were hungry, but didn’t eat all due to a lack of funds. However, there is a solution to the ever-growing problem of college hunger: food pantries. “The availability of assistance makes me feel that better that there are other options,” senior Victoria Penn said. The College & University Food Bank Alliance is a professional organization focused on alleviating food insecurity, hunger, and poverty among college and university students in the U.S. consisting of campus-based programs such as food pantries. With Michigan State University being a co-founder of the organization, the program is mostly available in public universities and is funded through donations. The number of food pantries on college campuses has increased to 398 members.
Staff Writers: Nya Cox, Shannon Flemming, Jaletha Lucas, Logan Stevenson, Lion Mitchell, Ayanna Lipscomb, Kenyetta, Micah Simpson, La’Shawn Wright-Smith, Logan Stevenson, Sarah Wright
THE HOWLER
Dec. 21, 2016 DetroitDialogue.com 9
Detroit Cristo Rey High School | cristoreyhowler.com
THE HOWLER
The #StudentsSpeak campaign calls on educators to help their students process the 2016 election by asking students to write their advice to the new president on a sheet of paper, upload a non-identifiable photo of the advice, and hashtag it with Students Speak.
ELECTION 2016
REMAINING
HEARD
THE HOWLER
Detroit Cristo Rey students shared their thoughts on the election results at the #StudentsSpeak campaign last month.
Amid mixed reactions toward the election, students want to make their votes count
By Camilla Cantu The Howler The presidential election and its results struck a chord with many Americans. Some Detroit Cristo Rey students say they are disappointed by the country’s vote, while others say neither candidate represented them. But the students’ biggest takeaway from this election? Voting matters. Detroit Cristo Rey students shared their thoughts on the election results at the #StudentsSpeak campaign last month. The campaign was started by Teaching Tolerance, a website for educators passionate about diversity, equity, and justice. The campaign calls educators to help their students process the 2016 election by asking students to write their advice to the new
president on a sheet of paper, upload a non-identifiable photo of the advice, and hashtag it with Students Speak. Students’ advice to Presidentelect Donald Trump ranged from addressing gender income inequality to race tolerance. Students lined up to photograph their signs reading “Love Trumps Hate,” “Peace,” and more in order to share their thoughts on social media. At Cristo Rey, the conversation touched on multiple aspects of the election, some positive, some negative. Ultimately students had the opportunity to spark conversation with others and engage in conversation on the election. Nicolas Perales, a freshman at Cristo Rey, said the election let
THE HOWLER
Editor-in-chief: Juanita Zuniga Adviser: Stephanie Morrow
him down. “I was more disappointed that people were foolish enough to vote for him. I thought people were better than that,” he said. It “just shows that you can’t really trust anybody.” Other students accepted the results, with a different outlook. “I think they were both interesting candidates,” said Isabelle Lopez, a freshman. “I am happy that Trump won, though, because I don’t feel like Hillary was the right woman candidate. And if she would have done a bad job they wouldn’t give another woman a chance.”
Crain Mentor: Hannah Lutz
Estrella Escutia, a freshman, agreed. “She didn’t really represent me as a woman. I’m not necessarily glad that Donald Trump won, but I wouldn’t be happy if Hillary Clinton won either.” “A lot of things that he said got to me. Not even necessarily me, but to my dad as well regarding deporting Mexicans.” added Estrella. Other students blamed the system this election. Angela Martinez, a senior at Cristo Rey, said she was frustrated by lack of voting in the city and the oppression of the minority vote.
“All of us were oppressed,” she said. “The system is oppressing us, it was made broken on purpose.” Despite the challenges many students faced during the election cycle, some spread positivity to other students. The election “just makes us think of ways we can prevent these situations in the future for our generation,” said Mayra Garcia, senior. As students wrote their advice to Trump, one central idea was unanimous: they would make it to the polls every year after their 18th birthday.
Staff Writers: Nehe-Miah Scarborough, Sierra Dawson, Gabriela Gonzales, Camilla Cantu, Angelina McCuller, Jennifer Gonzalez-Hernandez, Angeles Cuevas
10 DetroitDialogue.com Dec. 21, 2016
PINK LADY PRESS Detroit International Academy for Young Women | pinkladypress.com E N T E R TA I N M E N T
SOME LIKE IT
HOT By Faith Davis Pink Lady Press
It’s no secret that the students of Detroit International Academy love their hot snacks. From Flamin’ Cheetos to Hot Doritos, hot is where it’s at. Food reporter Faith Davis has sampled five of the most popular snacks and rated them according to the intensity of their hotness; five being the least hot and one being the hottest.
5
DETROIT
Female entrepreneurs share testimonials By Noel Toliver Pink Lady Press Motivational speaker and entrepreneur Ishita Gupta said, “I just recently moved to the Boston Edison District and passed by your school every day on my way to work, until one day I decided I was going to stop in.” For a month Gupta visited Detroit International Academy speaking with, encouraging and fostering confidence for participation for the first ever “Speak Up” assembly addressing
confidence, leadership, and using your voice. With her Gupta, brings six powerful women entrepreneurs to share personal stories and discuss how to boost your confidence, tap into the leader you already are, bullying, and sisterhood. Freshman Kylee Lloyd says working with Gupta was “exquisite.” These women, Sonia Grossi a specialized leadership coach; Jordan Hayles, comedic writer and author; Christine Ciona, founder
of KIVA Wellness and Joy Guru; Michelle Yee, award-winning, Toronto based documentary & editorial photographer; Julia Wojnar, founder of Unleash Your Presence; and Danielle Madden, entrepreneur and financial specialist helped freshman MoNay Palmore “gain confidence from listening to the ladies talk and I found it inspiring.” “I benefited from this because it taught me to have confidence and always to be joyful,” freshman Makayla Thomas said.
STUDENT LIFE
FETTY WAP HONEY JALAPENO RAP SNACKS
Founded in 1994, Rap Snacks maintains an assortment of uniqueflavored chips and popcorns with a different rapper on every product. Yo! Bag up these sweet new chips by yo’ favorite One-Eyed rapper Fetty Wap. Deez boys be bangin’, fam’, so share a bag with your squad today! Be sure to keep an eye out for them at your local Hood gas station HOTNESS RATING: Not chronic
4
UNCLE RAY’S HOT FLAVORED POTATO CHIPS
Made in Detroit, the back of each bag features a story from “The Life and Times of Uncle Ray,” who apparently is a real person. This line of chips includes flavors like BBQ, salt and vinegar, cheddar and sour cream, dill pickle, and of course, the hot ones! Uncle Ray’s stories aren’t very spicy, but his hot chips aren’t bad. Remember the time your mom decided to experiment with just “a little” pepper on the family dish? If you’re going to check these potato snacks out, be sure to keep some milk on standby just in case. HOTNESS RATING: Serving size for those who value their taste buds: two chips
3
UNCLE RAY’S HOT FLAVORED POTATO CHIPS
What’s the worst a literal potato cut into slim, greasy sticks and coated in bright red mystery powder can do to you? A whole lot, apparently, if you’re talking about Chester’s Hot Fries. In 1993, the Frito-Lay company decided that their Crunchy Cheetos, Cheetos Puffs, and Flamin’ Hot Cheetos just weren’t creating enough trans fats in
total, thus the “Hot Fry” was born. Today, the company has over 21 products available. And you wonder why Proactiv is making so much money. HOTNESS RATING: You’d drink out of a New York City puddle to relieve the burn
2
FLAMIN’ HOT FUNYUNS
You may have only heard of the original Funyuns, but someone was actually enthusiastic enough about onions to come up with not only a hot version, but also a “Chile Lemon” flavored bag and a bag called “Steakhouse Onion”... whatever that is. Funyuns is an acronym for fun onions. The only possible fun you can have with the product is to stack them on your index finger, leaving behind that annoying finger staining red hot Funyun dust. If you’re looking for a food that smells like the perfect blend of hot gym socks and artificially flavored pixie dust, Flamin’ Hot Funyuns has you covered. HOTNESS RATING: Call the ambulance
1
PAQUI CAROLINA REAPER MADNESS CHIP
This chip is made from the Carolina Reaper pepper (currently the hottest pepper on earth) and is so potent that they are sold in single serving packages shaped like a little cardboard coffin. They are currently on back order (a two month waiting period) and are bringing up to eighty bucks a chip on eBay. Paqui holds no accountability for any damages including, but not limited to: stains, hallucinations, heart attack, burns, heat exhaustion and death. HOTNESS RATING: Call the coroner
PINK LADY PRESS
PINK L ADY PRESS
DIA looks for ways to encourage school spirit, including decorating classrooms.
DIA brings more spirit to school By Jennah Mondy Pink Lady Press According to research by VarsityBrands.com, “School spirit is a powerful reflection of pride, achievement and determination. It goes hand in hand with positivity and is a benchmark of a school’s holistic success.” The report adds that “students with school spirit do more than show support for their school. They perform better academically, are more socially and civically engaged, and are happier in general than their less-spirited peers.” Students of Detroit International Academy have been brainstorming more ways of developing and showing school spirit. One way is the Pep Rally. It is a tradition at most schools for the football team’s
Adviser: Christina Bell-Bowers
homecoming game. Within the first months of school, it is a scheduled time to show some school spirit. Students are asked, the week leading up to the event, to display school spirit by wearing colors that represent their school. They then are asked to do a series of activities according to their grade level. But the question remains, how do we encourage more school spirit? Sophomore Dikea Seaton said: “It’s really a great school it keeps me focused, when I see this school I see it as a sisterhood. But school spirit, I’m at a loss.” “As a school when we work together, we form a bond, so we should have car washes in the summer,” sophomore Marcia Thomas said. “Someone to sponsor our school would show that people
actually care about us.” “If you want to see more school spirit, we should have more clubs and organizations,” sophomore Rachelle Shorter said. Sophomore Mikirra Bowers added: “Let’s start simple. As a group we can design class shirts. We need students and teachers to attend school games.” “If they didn’t charge for games, we would have more kids go, and that can be more school spirit shown for the team members,” sophomore Latya Houston said. But sophomore Marshelle Dixson said students don’t go because their team is going to lose. Houston disagreed. “You should never doubt your team or your peers, that’s where school spirit begins,” she said.
Crain Mentor: Sharon Carty Staff Writers: Jennah Mondy, Noel Toliver, Faith Davis
Dec. 21, 2016 DetroitDialogue.com 11
EYE OF THE HURRICANE Douglass Academy for Young Men | douglasseye.com
STUDENT LIFE
SPORTS
Douglass basketball team goes down, but not without a fight By Jae’lon Randle and Matthew Caffey Jr. Eye of the Hurricane On Dec. 6, Frederick Douglass Academy visited the Detroit Public Safety Academy for a non-league junior varsity basketball game. This game was hard fought from the Hurricanes perspective. The Hurricanes’ Shane May, Jae’lon Randle, Jalen Pickett, Davon Allen, and Stephon Mclaurin teamed for 42 points, but the game came down to a fourth-quarter victory for DPSA, 58 - 54. In the first quarter, the Hurricanes started strong. They had the Eagles up 10-4, But it was not long before they came back into the second quarter, 36-22. The Hurricanes made sure they did not give up as they came back into the third quarter to fight hard
and tie the game before the beginning of the fourth. The fourth quarter is were both teams had to dig deep. Randle and May bought them back with the eagles to sustain a one-point lead. With 1:30 left the Eagles got a two-point lead. Then the Hurricanes made back to back three pointers to cut the lead to only two points. The Eagles would not give up. With 25 seconds left they got a fast break steal to secure the victory. This was a hard fought game. “I think this has awaken some schools to let them know even though we lost, we are a strong team that is not going to go down so easily without a fight,” sophomore Caffey said. “So you better watch out for FD basketball team this year because they are hungry for a title this year.”
STUDENT LIFE
Douglass pays tribute to late English teacher
EYE OF THE HURRICANE
Douglass security officer James Richards, who is well respected and appreciated by students, parents, and staff.
OFFICER RICHARDS KEEPS DOUGLASS SAFE By Kamarion Smith Eye of the Hurricane Douglass security officer James Richards, who is well respected and appreciated by students, parents, and staff. Q: Why did you go into the security field?
A: “Because I went into the military. I had the background. At first, I wanted to be a police officer, then I joined the military.”
Q: When did you start in you job with security?
A: “I first started in 2007 at Ecorse High School with Strategic Security Services. I then came to DPS in 2011. I began at Douglass Academy in 2013.” Q: What impact do you think you have on the culture of Douglass Academy?
A: “Hopefully to turn boys into men. I want the boys to show
EYE OF THE HURRICANE
respect to others.” Q: Where do you see yourself in the future?
A: “I see myself still working at Frederick Douglass for a couple more years and then enjoying retirement from the army.” Q: What are your hobbies? A: “I enjoy gardening and cooking. I have a catering business and it’s therapeutic.”
Adviser: Wendell T. Woods Yearbook: Germaine Clinkscales
By Matthew Caffey Jr. Eye of the Hurricane My middle school English teacher Ms. Davis wasn’t just a teacher, she was so much more. She treated us like we were her kids. She loved the kids so much and she showed it. When the kids would walk into her class she was always smiling and playing jazz music. She was more of a friend than a teacher. We would talk to her about anything or ask her about anything. If we ever needed anything no matter what she was their for us. She also loved to read stories to the kids. Every Friday she wold read us a book. The book I remember her reading is: “How to Kill a Mockingbird.” She read this book to us to show us how it was back in the day for whites and blacks. Ms. Davis was a dedicated teacher who spent over 25 years teaching kids. She also loved cars and told us about
EYE OF THE HURRICANE
Middle school English teacher Ms. Davis passed away. She is greatly missed by her students and the community.
them every day. That’s why when I was notified that she died, I was devastated. All of the students are grateful and blessed to have her as a teacher and I hope she rests in peace.
Staff Writers: Jae’lon Randle, Matthew Caffey, Kamarion Smith
12 DetroitDialogue.com Dec. 21, 2016
VOICE OF THE VILLE East English Village Preparatory Academy | voiceoftheville.com
ELECTION 2016
STUDENT LIFE
BULLDOG SPOTLIGHT:
IN MEMORY OF JEREMAINE TILMON
VOICE OF THE VILLE
Jermaine Tilmon will be remembered as a brother, a father, an uncle and friend to many students at East English Village.
STUDENT LIFE
GSA supports students amid bathroom law By Jaida Williams and Danajah Turner Voice of the Ville In September, the Michigan Board of Education voted to allow LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender) students to use bathrooms or locker rooms that match their gender identity. These newly adopted laws created a supportive environment for LGBT students. This issue of which bathroom LGBT students should use is very controversial. GSA (Gay Straight Alliance) is an extracurricular group opened to East English students, both LGBT students and straight allies. Nicole Conaway, a teacher at East English Village created GSA to create a school environment that is accepting and supportive of all students of the LGBT Community and in doing so will create See GSA on page 23 »
VOICE OF THE VILLE
By Jaida Williams and Danajah Turner Voice of the Ville Although Jeremaine Tilmon’s life ended as a victim to violence, that isn’t how he will be remembered. He will be remembered as a brother, a father, an uncle and a friend to many students at East English Village. Tilmon was murdered in the early morning on Nov. 3. The circumstances around his death are unknown; however, there is a person of interest in custody. Tilmon often volunteered at EEVPA and served as an outreach worker for Keeping Them Alive, a group that empowers Detroit’s young people through mentorship, positive action and community building. “Youth members are challenged to actively organize to reduce youth violence and increase youth education in their school and communities,” said Ray Winans, Founder of Keeping Them Alive. “Tilmon wanted better options for students and encouraged them to avoid bad influences.” Tilmon had a mission and was dedicated to accomplishing his outreach work that permitted and enabled him to help young people live life better. “Mr. Tilmon inspired me to change my life and was a positive influence. He always gave me pearls of wisdom to keep pushing whenever I felt like giving up,” junior Daja Watkins said.
SPORTS
James stars on, off the volleyball court By Precious Gist Voice of the Ville Lauren James was the only player presented with the 20162017 EEVPA’s All City Girls Volleyball Team Award. Receiving the award was an honor and she attributes her success as a player to her team. “I appreciate my team and our ability to work together,” James said. “We support one another.” She admits that volleyball was a little hard for her initially, however; she kept trying and conquered the necessary abilities to be successful at volleyball. James was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder at an early age. Because of her diagnosis and learning disability, James has difficulty with social and communication skills. Nevertheless, she doesn’t allow her disability to be a hindrance. “She is not her disability, it doesn’t define her,”
Adviser: April D. McDaniel
said Velmasha Baugh, James’ mom. Through continued support of her mom, family members and team members, James continually improves and effectively uses various strategies that aid in communication. “Coaching Lauren James for the past three years has been rewarding,” said Derrick Howze, East English Village’s Girls Volleyball Coach. “I have had the pleasure of seeing her blossom into an athletic champion and an excelling senior.” James received her honors during Senior Night on Oct. 3, when EEVPA played a home game against Southeastern. James scored 15 points, which contributed to their win against Southeastern, 25-5. In her spare time, James enjoys skating, horseback riding and playing video game. James’ favorite subjects are science
VOICE OF THE VILLE
Lauren James show off her 2016-2017 EEVPA’s All City Volleyball Team Award.
and math. She will continue her studies, as well as her volleyball career at Wayne State University, where she will major in math.
Votes matter By David Brown Voice of the Ville As more years go by, more people decide not to David vote. Not only Brown is it hurting themselves, but the entire U.S. as well. Neglecting to vote only gives the person you don’t want to win, more of a chance to win. Just imagine how many people decide not to vote every election year. Imagine how many people have that same mindset that voting isn’t important and their vote won’t count. Well if we have over 80 million people saying that their vote won’t count, that’s over 80 million votes that won’t ever be counted. In 2008, the New York Times reported that 131 million people voted for our first African American president, Barack Obama. There was an enormous surge of voters, particularly young voters. Not only did an enormous amount of people vote, but that was the highest record of votes that U.S. had during a president election in history. According to Mlive. com, one-third of people in Michigan did not vote this year. As a result, Donald J. Trump will be our president. Trump would not be a good president because he lacks politician knowledge and is disrespectful. He regularly points out others imperfections and makes ridicule of it. Moreover, Trump has made several disrespectful comment about women. He continually demoralizes women and makes inappropriate comments. Our next president is in our hands. It is important that the right to vote is commonly exercised, especially amongst the younger generation. As a collective effort, we all have to come together and vote for a president that will help better lives for Americans and not ruin them.
Staff Writers: Calvin Austin, David Brown, Brendan Campbell, Sheporia Clark, Maryann Claxton, Tay'Veon Cleveland, Cierra Davis, Brandy Ellington, James Ferrell, Keyera Gaultney, Precious Gist, Albert Grant, Taylor Hardnett, Iyana Hardy, Jalen Hawkins, Cornejah Jackson, Jai'La Jackson, Arnika McClure, Tariq Sheperd, Danajah Turner, Jaida William
Dec. 21, 2016 DetroitDialogue.com 13
CRUSADERS’ CHRONICLE A public forum for the students and community of Martin Luther King Jr. Senior High School | crusaderschronicle.com STUDENT LIFE
Crusaders show support during Breast Cancer Awareness Month By Tayauna Holloway Crusaders’ Chronicle The King family showed its support for women during Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October by bringing attention to this sometimes fatal disease and raising funds for Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute in Detroit. There was an informational assembly, bake sale, parade and pink day. “The purpose of the assembly was to educate our community about breast cancer and to inform more of the female population to make healthy choices,” said organizer and teacher Felicia Jones. Survivors of this disease had an opportunity to share their story and triumphs. “I was diagnosed with in situ breast cancer in the first stage in 2004,” said teacher and 12-year survivor Beverly Allen. When receiving this lifechanging news some may experience denial, rejection, depression and anger. “I had mixed emotions I felt mad, sad, and confused because I was 28 years old,” said Katina McCleney, a six-year survivor. Being a survivor of breast cancer is an enormous feat. Sadly, some do not have the
Yay Or Nay?
CRUSADERS' CHRONICLE
CRUSADERS' CHRONICLE
Students in their pink attire prepare for the Breast Cancer Awareness march.
opportunity to be in remission and to be called a “survivor”. “I felt good and was glad that everything was over because it was a long time and it was hard to go through,” said McCleney. “So once I finished everything I was very happy and thankful to God that I was still alive.” Breast cancer is a genetic disease
but just because it does not run in a one’s family, does not mean that a female or male is off the hook. “I was diagnosed with stage three B breast cancer” said McCleney. It is not every day that someone wants to actually help educated the youth about the importance of cancer, nor is it every day that presenters see students willing to
listen. Teens need to know that they are also at risk for this disease, and they should be aware so they can take care of themselves. “I wanted to start having the breast cancer awareness recognition here at King because the mortality rate in the African-American community with women having breast cancer was high,” said Jones.
themselves, they have seen and experienced life and want to give options to the youth. “I’m really tired of seeing young males thinking with the mind set of being or leading to a drug dealing way, fighting, violence and exposing women,” said Scott. “I want to change that mind set.” Before M.A.D. could begin, they had to get an approval from Interim Superintendent Alycia Meriweather. Within a week, Meriweather was at King to listen to the group pitch their ideas. “I think it’s an excellent idea,” said Meriweather. “I was totally impressed with their desire to help the next generation.” The initiation of the group
Managing Editor: Alana Burke and Carrimia Owens Adviser: Veronica Hollis Crain Mentor: Jim Treece
By LaKharia McKinney Crusaders’ Chronicle There are teens who consume energy drinks, but are the drinks considered a healthy choice? On Nov. 9, King students attended an onsite workshop hosted by the organization, Detroit Area PreCollege Engineering Program (DAPCEP) where worms were used to experiment the negative impact of energy drinks. “I like drinking Monster Energy drinks,” said senior Shania Caver. “I drink it every day and I saw how the energy drink caused the worm to have seizures.” Students enjoyed learning more about energy drinks and how those drinks could potentially affect their health. Teens and college students tend See Energy on page 19 »
CRUSADERS' CHRONICLE
Crusaders start mentoring group to help youth
CRUSADERS’ CHRONICLE
ENERGY DRINKS
On Nov. 9, King students attended a workshop hosted where worms were used to experiment the negative impact of energy drinks.
STUDENT LIFE
By Jade Brookins and Tatiana McAfee Crusaders’ Chronicle A group of male seniors at King have come together in a positive way to help inspire and mentor middle school boys and break the negative cycles that plague inner-city youth. These eight seniors in Making A Difference (M.A.D.) are Don Barnes, Desjuan Davis, Desmond Foster-Carter, Jamal Hairston, Kamari McHenry, Lorenzo Scott, DeMarcus Taylor and Jalin Willis. “We want to give middle schoolers something they never had which is a male mentor,” said Taylor. Even though the members of M.A.D. are still teenagers
STUDENT LIFE
Seniors were determined to meet with the Interim Superintendent to get Making A Difference going. From left to right: Kamari McHenry, Jamal Hairston, Alycia Meriweather, Lorenzo Scott, Desmond FosterCarter, Jalin Willis, Don Barnes, Desjuan Davis, and DeMarcus Taylor
started with a conversation between two of its members and took off from that point. Quickly, other male Crusaders wanted to help middle school boys and give them some necessary tools for success in life and high school. “I didn’t grow up with a father or someone older than me to look up to, so it makes me feel like I can give someone else the chance I never got,” said Willis.
The first middle school M.A.D. visited was Blackwell Middle School on the eastside of Detroit. “We went to Blackwell and we got to meet sixth, seventh, and eighth graders,” said Foster-Carter. “Most of them came up to us before we left. They can’t wait to get started,” said McHenry. This particular organization plans to expand to as many schools as possible in order to make
a huge difference in the lives of young males. “In our group sessions we’ve established a brotherhood or some form of trust that you would give your brother,” said Foster-Carter. With the right leadership and commitment, great results can occur for everyone involved. “If we can get some of them to change, I feel like we can change the world,” said Hairston.
Staff Writers: Jade Brookins, Antneisha Gardner, Mya Garland, Marko Harden, Tayauna Holloway, Kapricee Jackson, Tatiana McAfee, Lakharia McKinney, Dhevhouen Stinson, Daimanique Stinson, Imani Tripp, Madison Wood, Tez Wright
“If you can’t fly then run, if you can’t run then walk, if you can’t walk then crawl, but whatever you do you have to keep moving forward.” — Martin Luther King Jr.
14 DetroitDialogue.com Dec. 21, 2016 SPORTS
STUDENT LIFE
King staff uses talents to support Gleaners
“I’M READY TO WIN”
Crusader Ambry Thomas commits to Michigan
CRUSADERS' CHRONICLE
Andrew Kemp had the crowd lit as he rapped “Sound Dumb,” his original piece. CRUSADERS' CHRONICLE
Army All-American Ambry Thomas commits to the University of Michigan.
“I’M READY TO WIN” Crusader Ambry Thomas commits to Michigan
By Daimanique Stinson Crusaders’ Chronicle When all the college offers were coming at senior Ambry Thomas he was overwhelmed. As a Crusader, Thomas has played receiver, corner, safety, punt-returner, and kick-returner which culminated into 41 offers. On Dec. 7, he committed to the University of Michigan. “It was just hard and probably a week ago I started leaning towards Michigan a little bit more,” said Thomas. “I was still in contact with Michigan State coaches. That is what made the decision hard, but I knew what I had to do.”
When entering college, most athletes want an opportunity to play their freshman year. This was one of the factors that helped sway Thomas’ decision. “I chose the life of Michigan because I know I’ll be set,” said Thomas. “They have a great coaching staff, and I know I could play early there.” The rivalry between the Spartans and Wolverines isn’t important to Thomas, but the stats are. “They’re winning,” said Thomas. “They know what they’re doing, and I’m ready to win.” Thomas was to report to
Michigan on Jan. 2 but he will not report until Jan. 9 because he is in the Army All-American Bowl which is Jan. 7 in San Antonio. The entire King family is happy about Thomas’ accomplishments. “With Ambry Thomas, you’re getting an incredible athlete, you’re getting a great person, a kid that’s serious and focused on winning,” said head coach Tyrone Spencer. “Somebody that’s going to have great success, and they’re confident in their ability. So I think with all those combinations it moves that success, and he’ll have a great time up there.”
By Imani Tripp and Madison Wood Crusaders’ Chronicle King held its first annual Crusader Aid in an effort to raise money for Gleaners Food Bank on Nov. 18. With the participation of staff and ticket sales, the Crusader family raised $800 to feed families. Science teacher Laurence Stewart spearheaded this event. “We wanted to do something for the kids but at the same time raise money for Gleaners Food Bank,” said Stewart. “One of the teachers and myself were talking about how the staff haven’t done anything to bring ourselves together.” The show included staff members as fashion models, poets, singers, rappers and dancers. All participants were excited to do their performances for the students and community. “I was excited to see my
teachers shine and to see Mr. Wolford show off his rapping skills,” said senior Darius McDuffey. The creativity that was put into their performances shows students that teachers are good at more than simply teaching because they had a chance to showcase their artistic side. “I think it was a cool way for us teachers to expose ourselves in a different light because there was always a perception that teachers are these robots and that we don’t have a life outside the classroom,” said history teacher and rapper Dan Wolford. The $2 ticket sales turned into a nice donation. It doesn’t take a lot of money for a single meal with Gleaners. “We were able to raise enough money to pay for 2,000 meals,” said Gleaner’s food coordinator Natalie Davidson.
STUDENT LIFE
Is it all about Christmas? The season of no representation By Alana Burke Crusaders’ Chronicle Christmas is a traditional Christian holiday celebrated by millions across America. Christmas marketing is heavily pushed beginning in early November as soon as Halloween is over. With the strong push of Christmas in supermarkets, malls, restaurants, and other places of business, other religious holidays taking place during the Christmas season are neglected and go unrepresented. “I think they should promote my culture because just like Christmas is promoted here, there are a lot of people from my culture here as well,” said Islamic senior Sana Sajjad. Christmas is a holiday for Christians to celebrate the birth of Jesus of Nazareth, the spiritual being they built their religion upon. But in today’s
society, Christmas has become a marketing holiday. It’s the time of year when people are out spending more money on decorations, clothes, and electronics to give gifts to loved ones. With that commercial push, offices and schools push the Christian holiday in their environments with Christmas trees, Secret Santa, Christmas Break, and other Christmas centered festivities. Schools and workplaces fail to recognize that Christmas celebrations can leave people of other religions feeling left out because Christmas isn’t the only holiday being celebrated at the time. The Jewish holiday Hanukkah and the African holiday Kwanzaa is celebrated at the same time. “Even before I started celebrating Christmas and accepting Jesus we just accepted
we’re living in a Christian country,” said calculus JudaeoChristian David Menczer.
“In today’s society, Christmas has become a marketing holiday. It’s the time of year when people are out spending more money on decorations, clothes, and electronics to give gifts to loved ones.” The word “Hanukkah” means “dedication” in Hebrew. Hanukkah is a celebration commemorating the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem where, legend says, Jews rose up against their oppressors in the
Maccabean Revolt. Hanukkah is also known as the Festival of Lights and is commonly known for its tradition of lighting the menorah. The menorah is a nine-branched candle holder and on each night of the eight-day holiday, one candle is lit after sundown. The ninth candle, the shamash, is used to light the other eight candles. The center branch of the menorah represents Divine light and the other branches represent knowledge and human wisdom. “One of the miracles talked about during Hanukkah is that they only had enough oil for the menorah to last one day, but it lasted for eight days,” said Menczer. “We light the menorah now to remind us of that miracle.” The name “Kwanzaa” comes from the Swahili phrase “Matunda ya kwanza” which
means “first fruits”. Kwanzaa is a week-long celebration where each day focuses on the different principles of Kwanzaa. These days are recognized with Mishumaa Saba, seven candles lit each day of the celebration week. There are three red candles that represent selfdetermination, cooperative economics, creativity. Three green candles represent faith, purpose, and collective work and responsibility. The black candle that goes in the middle of the seven-branched candelabra represents unity. Kwanzaa is celebrated by each family in its own way but celebrations commonly include songs, dances, and a large traditional meal. “My religion means everything to me,” said counselor Leonard Miller. “It’s my faith and road map to decision making.”
Dec. 21, 2016 DetroitDialogue.com 15 SPORTS
STATE CHAMPIONS Lady Crusaders swim their way to the top By Daimanique Stinson Crusaders’ Chronicle On Oct. 26, King’s sevenmember girls swim team outscored seven other DPSCD high schools to win the city championship. This is the first time in years that a Detroit public school has won first place in every event. Under the leadership of coach Gary Peterson and assistant coach Anneatra Kaplan, it has been many years since King has won a city championship. “It feels awesome to be a city champs because we haven’t won in over 10 years,” said junior Niah Smith.
CRUSADERS' CHRONICLE
TOP: Junior AnQuniece Wheeler won swimmer of the meet. BOTTOM: King’s girls swim team with assistant coach Anneatra Kaplan are proud of their accomplishes this school year.
“This is the first time King has won a city championship in over 12 or 13 years. This is a monumental moment in King’s history.” Anneatra Kaplan, assistant coach
One of the dominating factors for the team’s victory is the experience level of the girls and the number of hours spent practicing. “The difference between this year’s team and last year’s team is the age. They are a year older and more mature,” said Kaplan. “We added additional girls that came in with experience and quality swimming. They were added to what we already had.” Competing year after year
with no luck, made the girls work harder. It will be a moment in King’s history that will be remembered. “This is the first time King has won a city championship in over 12 or 13 years,” said Kaplan. “This is a very monumental moment in King’s history.” Competing in these swim meets is no easy feat for the Lady Crusaders. Preparing for these meets takes hard work, determination and dedication. “It takes a lot of time and
dedication to be a swimmer,” said freshman Kayla Kendricks. “You have to go to morning and afternoon practices along with getting your schoolwork and homework done.” Even with their hours of hard work, the swimmers still get nervous going to their matches. “At the beginning of the meet, when I first get there, it is nerve wrecking yet confusing because it’s a lot going on and a lot of swimmers warming up in the pool,” said junior Aniah Smith.
STUDENT LIFE
LIVING WITH AUTISM: PLEASE DON’T RIDICULE NOR HUMILIATE CRUSADERS' CHRONICLE
Teacher Eti Umana (far right) and paraprofessional Reginal Jones (far left) allow their students to experience the Detroit Institute of Arts.
By Mya Garland Crusaders’ Chronicle Some students may not think that their peers with autism can be typical teens, but many of them are. Autism is a brain disorder and genetics is one key contributor. “Just like all kids are unique, the same is true with autism,” said board certified behavior analyst Molly Gardner of University Pediatricians Autism Center. It is difficult for the younger generation to understand the dynamics of autism which can be hard for the student with the disorder. “If you don’t have the right kind of friends to understand it, you’ll be ridiculed or humiliated,” said junior and honor student Damoni Reese. When teens think of others with autism, they may have some preconceived ideas about their abilities. Most of these assumptions are inaccurate.
“People think they cannot learn, they cannot function within the population and we find that not to be true,” said autism spectrum disorders teacher Eti Umana. When teens hear autism, they automatically think that these students don’t have the ability to interact nor be successful. There are autistic students who have a regular schedule, and some are in honor classes. They are very intelligent and should not be treated badly nor bullied. “Sometimes they [students] would yell at me or call me stupid or get in my face thinking I’m dumb,” said Reese. Just like all teens want to be treated with respect, autistic teens are no different. “They’re normal people like us, they’re very intelligent, very smart, you have to treat them with the same amount of respect,” said Umana.
16 DetroitDialogue.com Dec. 21, 2016
RHS STENTOR
A public forum for the students and community of Renaissance High School | rhsstentor.com ELECTION 2016
Trump’s presidency has left minorities fearful By Imani Harris RHS Stentor There is no avoiding the fact that this election has awakened a surge of hate crimes throughout America. From white men pulling guns on African-American women, to straight men smashing beer bottles in the faces of gay men, acts of hatred around America have become much more prevalent since Donald Trump’s election. Although Trump neither committed nor endorsed these crimes, his election has riled overtly racist men and women, which has
started a war between minorities and white people. Trump has a history of racism. He has called Mexicans “rapists,” and Muslims “terrorists.” He has threatened to build a wall to keep immigrants out of the U.S., and to deport children. His overt brand of racism and sexism have garnered him support from members of the KKK, writers from a NeoNazi news site, members of the League of the South (a white supremacist group), and many others. Supporters now have faith in themselves to openly oppress. Over the course of Trump’s
STUDENT LIFE
campaign, many people, some who even refer to themselves as “white supremacists,” made racist threats. From threatening to kill black people, to imitating grabbing women in their privates, these comments were extreme on their own. Since the election, however, these threats have manifested off the computer screen and into real life. The day following Trump’s election, a Louisiana man wearing a Trump hat and an accomplice beat and robbed a Muslim woman. They stole her money and hijab, screaming racist remarks at her.
A Muslim woman was attacked in New York thereafter. While riding the Northbound Train, she was attacked by three men who tried stealing her purse and hijab. A Black woman in Delaware told a similar story on Facebook; while pumping gas, she was approached by four white men. They called her derogatory names and pulled a gun on her, saying “you’re lucky there’s witnesses or else I’d shoot you right here”. Racism and discrimination is no less covert inside schools. White students at a school in Pennsylvania called their Black peers “cotton
pickers,” going so far as to use the “heil Hitler” salute. A video has surfaced of a Royal Oak middle school in which white students chant “build a wall.” At a college campus in New York, a black baby doll was found in an elevator with a rope tied around her neck. This kind of overt discrimination happened only in the days following Trump’s win. Imagine the next four years. Trump has not made America great. These hate-filled crimes are a direct result of his campaign, leaving minorities in America fearful of what might come.
SPORTS
How you sound should not determine your character By Maria Tucker RHS Stentor In my life I have encountered many situations where how I spoke made people think that I were smarter or “better” than them. Because I enunciated my words and spoke in full sentences, I was told I spoke “like a white girl.” As a young teen, I enjoyed reading, which might be where I developed my speech pattern of speaking in complete sentences. In the books I read, authors delivered stories in Standard English. I find this type of writing more interesting than what some mislabel as “broken English.” How you sound should not determine your character; speaking is supposed to be about getting one’s point across to the best of one’s ability while still having an audience be able to comprehend. I looked to others for an example. Dana Beaurem, the HR Manager for the automotive company Martinrea shared with me her experience changing the way she speaks at work. Dana has dismissed that fact that people perceive her as a white woman on the phone, due her
“professional-sounding”voice. Can I not be an African American who enjoys reading books and sounds professional, without being classified as “smart” or “white?” One young woman said to Beaurem during a work meeting: “Oh, wow, you don’t look like how you sound on the phone.”The HR manager looked at that person, and then went on with the meeting. Beaurem told me wasn’t really fazed by the encounter because it happens all the time. As a child, Beaurem even noticed when business calls came to the house, her mother sounded different then when she would talk to her daughter and friends. Beaurem grew to believe that “this voice” was a requirement of being successful in business. Even as a woman in her middle ages, growing up, sounding a certain way was considered “professional” and “white.” If “sounding white” means being a person who enunciates their words and speaks in complete sentences, and “sounding black” is when a person uses slang, then I don’t know where people like myself fit in.
How you sound should not determine your character; speaking is supposed to be about getting one’s point across to the best of one’s ability while still having an audience be able to comprehend.
RHS STENTOR
Adviser: Kyle Goodall Crain Mentors: Omari Gardner & Mike Lewis
RHS STENTOR
Jazzmaine Hammond signs her National Letter of Intent to play softball at Norfolk State University in Virginia. Hammond credits her family’s support for molding her into the player she developed into.
Hammond earns college scholarship By Taylor Gribble RHS Stentor Jazzmaine Hammond’s softball journey began eight years ago for the Rosedale softball league where she became a dominant pitcher. She pursued her love for the sport and eventually joined Renaissance High School’s softball team. In 2013, as a freshman, she placed on varsity, earning the most leads on her team in home runs. By the end of her freshman year, Hammond knew she wanted to play college level ball for a division one school. By 2014, colleges began to notice Hammond. She dedicated her sophomore year entirely to batting cages and lifting weights.
As a result, she averaged .347 in hitting. Junior year was her rise to stardom. Hammond placed second on the team for home runs. She faced a lot of obstacles and opposition, however, being turned down by colleges. They told her she wasn’t skilled enough or equipped for their teams. Although that feedback hindered her, she didn’t let it kill her motivation. Despite college rejections, Hammond began to wake up early and run daily, training extra in the batting cage. Jazzmaine’s father, Jermaine Hammond is her No. 1 supporter. He taught her everything she needed to know. He and her
coaches molded Hammond into the star athlete she needed to become for recruiters. Hammond’s father reminded her, that her time would come if she continued to work hard. On Nov 16, Hammond committed to Norfolk State University in Norfolk, Virginia, where she will be playing both center field/outfield. Not only is Hammond a dominant player on the field, she scores high as well academically. She has earned a 3.4 grade-point average for all four years of high school and plans on majoring in electronic engineering. Hammond concludes her senior year at RHS as captain of the varsity softball team.
Staff Writers: Tori Armstrong, Camaria Beasley, Jalynn Bell, Jasmine, Betts, Cydni Bonds, Zaire Bridges, Autumn Chambers, Mark Cornelius, Kristina Davis, Chandra Fleming, Kristen Gibbs, Cinque Harris, Imani Harris, Taliah Hoye, Jasmine Jordan, Nyah Lewis, Tylar Lewis, Maisha Massey, Kayla Mccoy, Dasia Moore, Shyanna Mosley, Braia Ogletree, Shaina Petty, Makayla Rand, Tariq Reid, Semaj Rogers, Sage Sanders,, Erika Spivey, Andrea Square, A’Lyse Thomas, Taylar Williams, Inglyand Anderson, Jacob Boyd, Sheridan Branch, Erynn Brantley-Ridgew, Sasha Burts, MaKaylah Butler, Montex Butts, Tamia Calloway, Alano Carter, Catera Chambers, Djiby Coulibaly, Tavion Curry, Kynlyn Dalton, Shakyra Davis, Ma’at Dismuke-Beaver, Destiny Dortch, Meanna Durham, Cydney Gardner-Brown, Haley Gilley, Naimah Green, Taylor Gribble, Dalyn Henderson, Lacie Hudson, Jamaria Johnson, Solomon Lucy, Ceara Mcintosh, Lamarea Moore, Bria Mosby, Dorillion Payne, Myiah Richards, Jordan Robinson, Joseph Roy, Sumone Spivey, Mariah Tucker, Nyree Turner, Kristen Waters, Danielle Williams
Dec. 21, 2016 DetroitDialogue.com 17 STUDENT LIFE
ROAD TO CARNEGIE HALL RHS Symphonic needs $70,000 for New York trip
“Only the best bands and orchestras across the United States are selected to play.” Ronald Malabed, Band Director
By Ceara McIntosh RHS Stentor Carnegie Hall has selected Renaissance Symphonic to perform in its prestigious halls in the spring of 2017. The band must raise over $70,000 to attend. This is not the first time a Detroit Marching Band has performed at Carnegie Hall. In 2013, Detroit School of Arts traveled to New York to perform. Under the direction of Ronald Malabed, the 38 attending DSA band members performed for over 500. Malabed now teaches in Renaissance High School’s performing and fines arts program. RHS’ band now participates in Windsor’s parade, for each visit of which the City of Windsor donates $500 to the band. Although the band has successfully fundraised, it needs more help. A recent method of fundraising were the ticket prices for entry to the Christmas concert. Regular tickets cost $10 and children 6 and below were free. Malabed said
program costs will cover transportation, tours, Broadway shows, accommodation and related performance fees. “We will be visiting the Statue of Liberty, the 9/11 memorial ... and visit the Juilliard,”New York’s premiere performing arts school, said Malabed. If the total $70,000 is not paid by Jan. 20, students will miss this opportunity. “Only the best bands and orchestras across the United States are selected to play,” Malabed said. Long-time students of the band program are eager to see their commitments recognized. Senior Ryan Estmond has been in RHS’s marching band since the 9th grade and wants the Carnegie experience for her future in music. “The music I play can impact people around me,” said Estmond, who in 2015 received a scholarship for a three-day music tour of the UK. She said that performing in Carnegie would increase her chances of earning other music scholarships. Senior Jalea Jones has
RHS STENTOR
Renaissance needs to raise money to cover transportation, tours, Broadway shows, accommodation and related performance fees.
played the flute in the band for three years and is also eager about the Carnegie trip. Playing higher notes and playing at a faster tempo are challenging because you must blow into the hole the correct way and move your fingers faster. “Practicing the chromatic and major scales helps me warm up at the beginning of class and performances. The flute is
a challenging instrument, but I keep trying.” Sophomore Russel McIntosh says New York will be “a learning experience.””It’s a place where we never been before,” he said. The sophomore explains how it was surprising how they won the trip and won against thousands See Carnegie on page 20 »
STUDENT LIFE
How can the largest search engine not address its blatantly racist and sexist search results? By Tariq Ried RHS Stentor Google received backlash early December for search results that appeared on Google Images. This controversy started with an anonymous 99-character tweet: “Google search sexy white mom....then Google search sexy black mom.. Retweet [share] so everybody can see this.” The call to action revealed that “sexy white mom” searches yield fully clothed white women and some in scantily clad, while “sexy black mom” searches result exclusively in pornographic images.
Hundreds of users retweeted the original post. Users also found that pornographic image search results were associated with other racial and ethnic minority groups. The hashtag #sexyblackmom trended on Twitter and eventually on Instagram. Google received such backlash that the images were erased altogether just hours after the hashtag began. Several factors yielded unequal and lewd results. First, consider the fetishization of Blackness. Throughout history, AfricanAmericans have been typically fetishized for their bodies.
Slave masters often raped Black women because they were fond of their curvaceous bodies. Some slave masters believed that they were doing women a “favor” by raping or sleeping with them, since black men were seen as “animalistic” and “brutal.” There is a myth that rape is primarily about impulsive sexual desire, but studies show that the major motive for rape is power, not sex. Sex is often used as a weapon to inflict pain, violence or humiliation. The fetishization and molestation of black women developed the Jezebel Caricature. The “Jezebel”
stereotype is the depiction of the hypersexual black woman. It’s one of the main reasons why white Americans think that black women are slutty, immoral, and oversexed. During the 19th century, Saartjie Baartman was exhibited as freak show attraction around Europe, to show off her behind under the name “Hottentot Venus.” Baartman is one of the most notable examples in history but modern examples include Lil Kim and Nicki Minaj in “Anaconda.” Is Google feeding this Jezabel caricature the same ways artist profit from
it? To truly understand why Google is under fire, we have to understand how their search engine works. Google’s Inside Search outlines the search engine’s three-step process for yielding results. The first phase is “crawling and indexing,” whereby Google follows website links from page to page, then sorts pages by their content and other factors. In short, Google sorts information based on sites’ content and catalogs factors that would likely cause one to See Google on page 20 »
18 DetroitDialogue.com Dec. 21, 2016
PANTHER PRESS
A public forum for the students and community of University Preparatory Academy High School | upreppantherpress.com STUDENT LIFE
SENIORS MARCH TO MAILBOX Seniors celebrated with rally as they mail college applications By Kharmesha Frost Panther Press Underclassmen recently supported University Preparatory Academy High School seniors as they marched to the mailbox to mail their college applications. The school held a special rally in the gym for its seniors. The entire school attended to show overwhelming support to the senior class of 2017. Senior Shelbi Smith hosted the rally. The keynote speaker of the rally was Raphael Johnson, a motivational speaker and former candidate for Detroit City Council. Johnson spoke to the students candidly about his experiences and the importance of graduating from college. University Prep graduate Paris France also came to share her college experience with students. She shared with them the struggles she had in college and how she overcame
PANTHER PRESS
Uprep seniors are supported by underclassmen to mail their college applications. The students are led by their principal Camille Hibbler.
those challenges. Senior students were recognized with awards for completing 100 community service hours and their early acceptance into college. Students applied to colleges big and small from the east coast
to the west coast. Some senior students said how they felt reassured as they placed their applications onto the mail truck. “It was very encouraging to the seniors and it probably boosted their confidence,” sophomore Imani Bell said.
STUDENT LIFE
PANTHER PRESS
March to Mailbox Uprep seniors Shelbi Smith and Anayah Gorman march to mail their college applications.
CROCHETING FOR A CAUSE
Students make blankets for Project Linus
PANTHER PRESS
Senior students spend their “Crew” time crocheting blankets for Project Linus.
PANTHER PRESS
Adviser: Kecia Smith Crain Mentors: Kristin Bull & Carlos Portocarrero
By Kiara Stephens Panther Press University Preparatory Academy High School students have found a creative way to support others, as seniors used their class time to complete a special project. The students have been crocheting blankets for the past two years to donate to a project called Project Linus. The blankets that the students make will be given to children in hospitals and shelters who really need the support. Every Tuesday students spend their class time crocheting these special blankets. Project Linus was chosen by the the “Crew” to complete as a service project. “We learned how to crochet in about 10 minutes,” said senior Pierre Blanks.
Crew is a class essential for UPrep students to develop a relationship among peers and a staff member throughout all four years of high school. Everyday for 30 minutes students learn and apply the six pillars of the school that include: accountability, cooperation, commitment to high quality, grit, integrity and being socially conscious. These pillars are in place to help students become better students as well as becoming responsible and productive members of society in the future. At UPrep, the motto is “We are not passengers, we are crew.” “It feels good to know that our handmade blankets will be used to help children who really need the help,” Keenan Butler said.
Staff Writers: Breann Barge, Pierre Blanks, De’Erika Bryant, Renee Carter, Nykia Chaney, Lyric Dothard-Ware, Kristofer Dye, Kharmesha Frost, Elijah Garlington, Anayah Gorman, Raven Greene, Hawk Grier, Jumyia Hawkins, Michael Jackson, Picabo Johnson, James McFolley, Nakara Neely, Shawn Pittman Jr., Jalen Roberson, Rashidah Shorts, Shelbi Smith, Kiara Stephens, Recco Townes Jr., Alysa Wiggins, Taeshon Williams
Dec. 21, 2016 DetroitDialogue.com 19
GPA
STUDENT LIFE
Students are able to raise GPA with program FROM PAGE 6
quarter, but I’ll bounce back for the semester.” Ricky plans to attend either Stanford University, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, or the University of Michigan in the fall with hopes of keeping the wellroundedness he has now. Cass produces some of the best and brightest students who work extremely hard to shine in today’s society. Top universities receive approximately 30,000 college applications annually for just early action alone. My 5.0 GPA has helped me stand out amongst my peers; not only from this country, but from around the world. Currently, I am a member of the National Honor Society; president of Cass Tech’s student chapter of the NAACP; and a group leader of the Anti-Bullying Club at school. I also hold several memberships outside of school. In the fall of 2017, I plan to attend a top university where I will major in business management and minor in communications.
CT VISIONARY
Cass Tech International Baccalaureate and Advanced Placement senior Hunter Phelps received a 5.0 GPA consecutively throughout her junior year.
DIVIDES
Mayor addresses Detroit city divide FROM PAGE 3
The selling of vacant houses is a good thing for Detroit. It generates tax revenue, makes neighborhoods safer and beautifies neighborhoods. Whether selling vacant homes necessarily helps the black population stay in Detroit is another question. Duggan never indicated explicitly who is buying the vacant homes, nor that many of the “vacant” homes auctioned off are still occupied (by long-term owners who couldn’t afford to pay taxes, who must watch their homes foreclosed and sold off to somebody else). Loveland Technologies maps foreclosed properties in Detroit; it estimates that half of the properties facing
PINK PANTHERS: UPrep honors breast cancer survivors By Kharmesha Frost and Shelbi Smith Panther Press University Preparatory Academy High School ended Breast Cancer Awareness Month with activities celebrating survivors.
UPrep Throughout the month of October the students of UPrep donated to support breast cancer awareness. They also wrote essays about how cancer affected them and their families. Many students wrote about their teacher, Suk Johal-Hunt, who was diagnosed with cancer in 2008. Johal-Hunt fought cancer and won and now she shows her support to all of those still struggling with the disease. Students participated in UPrep’s first U Stronger than Cancer walk on Oct. 28. Students donated money to participate and walk around the campus of Wayne State University. The proceeds from the walk went to a UPrep family that is fighting cancer. Also on Oct. 28, breast cancer survivor Jacqueline Howard gave her testimony at the Learning from Leaders meeting with the senior class. Howard was interviewed by her friend, UPrep Principal Camille Hibbler, about her fight with cancer. Howard talked about how cancer affected her life. After being stripped from all the things that defined her, such as work, family, and her hair, due to breast cancer, Howard was only left with her faith and joy.
foreclosure are occupied (about 100,000 Detroiters). These are thousands of people who, over the years, have put time, effort and resources into the aesthetics of their homes, just to witness their homes be auctioned off to outsiders. The same things are happening with businesses as well. “All I want to do is make more opportunities … people will then have choices,” said Duggan. The mayor worked to recruit people in job training programs at different hospitals and DTE Energy Company. He claims the city could use at least 1,000 plumbers, electricians, and carpenters each, and that these jobs tend to pay around $60,000$80,000 per year. He has designed a program called “Detroit at Work,” which will provide a variety of training for such opportunities in Detroit. Another program Duggan
PANTHER PRESS
Students participated in UPrep’s first U Stronger than Cancer walk on Oct. 28. Students donated money to participate and walk around the campus of Wayne State University.
“We have to think of breast cancer as more than a color. Think of it like a life and death situation.” Jacqueline Howard, breast cancer survivor
“I began to find out the difference between happiness and joy. Happiness refers to possessions and joy refers to love from within,” Howard said. “We have to think of breast PANTHER PRESS cancer as more than a color. Think Principal Camille Hibbler and breast cancer survivor Jacqueline of it like a life and death situation.” Howard at the Learning from Leaders meeting with the seniors.
has worked on is known as the Ceasefire program, through which gang members at risk of being killed are brought to a church, and made aware of their risks. The program then helps these at-risk individuals enroll directly in job training programs. After the start of the Ceasefire program, shootings dropped 30%-40%. Crime rates are still high, but they have dropped significantly. EMS and police are showing up in half the time they used to on average, because of hiring in these departments. It is exciting that housing and job opportunities are on the rise in a city that is becoming safer and more diverse. So far, Duggan seems to be doing a wonderful job getting people into the jobs they need. Whether he is actually doing all he can to promote minority advancement in the process is still debatable.
ENERGY
Science experiment shows effects of energy drinks on body FROM PAGE 13
to consume these beverages when they are attempting to stay awake especially when studying for finals. “Energy drinks are calories and they [companies] promote that they [drinks] have extra vitamins and minerals,” said science teacher Diane McKenzie. “They bring you up and then they bring you down really fast because it’s absorbed so quickly into the system.” DAPCEP is a non-profit that strengthens students’ skills in engineering and science. This organization works closely with students in the Detroit area. “We started in 1976 with one DPS school and 295 students and now we have in our classes
approximately 4,500 per year,” said development associate of DAPCEP Nina Bailey. This organization not only comes into the schools to teach, it also offers scholarships for deserving students and preparation for college. “There is an opportunity for scholarships with most of the universities we partner with but the main benefit is kids who are interested in STEM will leave the program knowing what they need to study [for college], how to study, and they will also have a ‘leg up’ because they had the experiences,” said Bailey. To attend DAPCEP, there is some criteria needed and your GPA is not the only determining factor. DAPCEP is celebrating its 40th anniversary. “I loved the workshop today and playing with the worms and learning about the drinks,” said senior Camryne Stubblefield.
20 DetroitDialogue.com Dec. 21, 2016
CARNEGIE
Band works to raise funds for New York trip FROM PAGE 17
of schools in the U.S. Many students in RHS’s top band learned how to play instruments over the course of several years and hope to see their musical growth and success acknowledged. Sophomore Lamon Ray plays percussion and expects to continue playing the drums and marimbas in college. In the beginner’s band section, Ray learned how to play correct rhythms and how to make unique beat progressions. “I learned the basics; how to hold the drums sticks and marimba sticks, and improved
my skills with the bass drum.”RHS hosts an annual Christmas program featuring four bands and three orchestra groups playing traditional Christmas songs. This event brings out the Christmas spirit, and parents especially enjoy seeing their children play favorite Christmas sing-a-longs. With applications coming from all 50 states, chances of being selected are slim. A recording of last year’s Christmas concert performance was included in the Carnegie Hall application. Participating in your school’s band opens many opportunities for your success. Freshman Brandon Hill is currently in C band and was quickly appointed to be in Marching Band. He has experience playing
the clarinet and double bass. As a freshman, new to the band, you experience new things when you enter high school such as new band equipment, performing in different countries, and even performing all over the U.S. Some instruments are harder to play then others, yet students are still egger to come to class and practice. “Playing the trombone isn’t really a challenge, but with some of the music, it is hard to move the slide back and forth quickly,” Hill said. “[Band members] can benefit from this by getting out of the house on the weekend, play in front of new people, and leave a lasting impression.” Some students have received full rides to any college
they desire to attend and some have played in their college’s marching band. Estmond was offered a threeday scholarship to tour Europe. “I improved dramatically. I learned some things that I didn’t know about music,” Estmond said. There she experienced life in a whole new perspective meaning she met new people, played with professional musicians, and learned life lessons. For some people, receiving a full ride to college will encourage them to continue to play their instrument, yet some people will continue to play it just because it’s something they love. Jones received a marching band scholarship from Central State University in Ohio that covers most of her tuition. A
DETROIT
BEST IN BLACK AWARDS
CT VISIONARY
On Oct. 20, the Michigan Chronicle hosted the Best In Black Awards. The event was held at the Music Hall in Detroit, where local schools, business owners and celebrities were honored for their great service throughout the city. Cass Tech took home five awards including: Best School, Best Teacher (English Teacher Vicki Green), Best Coach (Football Thomas Wilcher), Best Marching Band (Director Sharon Allen), and Best Principal Lisa Phillips.
Search results show racist and sexist trends FROM PAGE 17
search individual sites. Part two involves Google’s algorithms. Once a user types something into Google, algorithms look for hints (tags, trends, etc.) to determine which sites and documents are most relevant. For example, typing in “sexy white mom” may yield an image of Beyonce, because she is wearing a white coat. Part three is fighting spam. Those pesky Candy Crush invites on Facebook? That’s spam. Google
tries to keep search results relevant by automatically removing information that it determines is not useful to a user. So, is Google innocent? “Sexy white mom” vs. “sexy black mom” isn’t the first ostensibly racist Google images controversy. On June 6, Kabir Alli recorded a video of himself typing “3 white teenagers,” in which white teenagers appeared smiling, laughing and casually dressed. “3 black teenagers” searches yielded mug shots of black teenagers. Alli told Guardian Australia that he didn’t believe Google was racist. “The results were formed through
the algorithm they set up. They aren’t racist but I feel like they should have more control over something like that,” Alli said. A Google spokesperson released the following statement toFUSION via email: “Our image search results are a reflection of content from across the web, including the frequency with which types of images appear and the way they’re described online. This means that sometimes unpleasant portrayals of sensitive subject matter online can affect what image search results appear for a given query. These results don’t reflect Google’s own opinions or beliefs
— as a company, we strongly value a diversity of perspectives, ideas and cultures.” Perhaps blame should be placed on the subjugation of women in general, especially women of color. Mainstream media has insisted for decades that white women are more attractive, more intelligent, more polite and more prizeworthy than black women. Black women are portrayed as sassy, big-behind, neck-rolling, angry women with larger-thanlife attitudes, good only for singing and dancing. In this sense, perhaps obscene search results for “sexy black mom”
mandatory band meeting regarding multiple fund raising opportunities was held on Oct. 27, whereby parent committees determined how to raise the $70,000. One committee is responsible for selling “schoolsafe” items. The “church group” is responsible for writing letters to pastors, asking for assistance. Another committee manages a GoFund Me account. Many parents also suggested that students write to celebrities and press releases. Even with these ideas, the symphonic band and its parent group are interested in other ways to raise the $70,000. To help raise money for the RHS Symphonic band perform at Carnegie in 2017, email ceara. mcintosh@gmail.com.
SUPPLIES
Teacher awarded $2,000 for classroom supplies FROM PAGE 4
“I felt he deserved it the most,” said Rahman. “Since Mr. Lown’s a social studies teacher, he has many different beliefs that I support. And there were times when he shared his opinions with me and I totally agreed with him.” “Mr. Lown believes strongly about anti-bullying,” Rahman said. “He knew someone who went through bullying, that’s why he fought for it a lot. He believes in equal rights with women as well, because he believes women deserve the same rights as men. “I look up to Mr. Lown because I feel like he’s a role model to us students. He shows us how to act, how to be responsible for our actions, and how to take advantage of opportunities that come forward. “It was a real honor that Hafiz nominated me and wrote a great letter,” Lown said. “It was a great opportunity for me to get stuff for my classroom that I needed for students. “I’m able to better share with my students the skills and methods and things they’re supposed to do. I just feel very proud and honored to know that I made a difference in his life and potentially other students’ lives as they are on their quest to be successful.” reflect American culture, not Google. But senior Asha Hill believes Google is at fault. “They are responsible for what should come up on their website.”Freshman Sade Reid alluded to structural powers. “I know someone who works for Google, and they stated that they were the only black person in their place of business,” said Reid. Perhaps the question is not who is to blame, but how the largest search engine maintains inequity online. If Google lacks diversity, perhaps it is easy for seemingly racist and sexist search results to go unaddressed.
Dec. 21, 2016 DetroitDialogue.com 21
WEST SIDE TIMES
A public forum for the students and community of West Side Academy | westsidetimes.com STUDENT LIFE
WSA'S BLUE PLACES IN FOX 2 CONTEST By Christian Kinsey West Side Times West Side Academy junior Brittney Blue has turned a class assignment into a television appearance on Fox 2 News. Tasked by her English teacher with writing a pledge to not become a distracted driver for a contest for new drivers sponsored by FOX 2 and the Sam Bernstein Law Firm, Blue opted for a poem. Her verse caught the eye of the FOX 2 news staff, and meteorologist Derek Kevra even read portions of her poem on-air after the contest closed. “I was actually really nervous because I didn’t think my poem would get much attention,” Blue said. “I was really surprised when I did win.” While the top three winners were able to win cash prizes, Blue won the chance to be in a public service announcement warning young people about the dangers of being a distracted driver. Blue was given the chance to go to the news station and be interviewed live by the news staff, along with
three of the other winners. The four of them also were filmed for a public service announcement about the dangers of distracted driving that will be airing this winter. “Some people won money, which would be nice, of course. But I got the chance to be on the news,” said Blue. “I was actually really nervous because I didn’t think my poem would get much attention. I was really surprised when I did win.” “I was not at all surprised to find out Brittney placed in the contest. She has a creative side that comes out when she writes poetry,” said Blue’s English teacher Suzanne Olsen. Brittney said she was more comfortable with the PSA than live television. “During the PSA, before they start recording you, you have a chance to get your lines together and compose yourself,” said Blue. “It makes you more at ease than having to speak on the spot.” “I feel like my poem will remind people to think outside of themselves because they have lots of other lives at stake when they are on the roads.”
WEST SIDE TIMES
WSA's Brittney Blue, far right, wrote a poem about distracted driving for a contest for new drivers sponsored by FOX 2 and the Sam Bernstein Law Firm.
OPINION
OPINION
HAS FACEBOOK LOST ITS EDGE? Thoughts on our next president If you mention the name “Facebook” to the common teenager, you’ll likely get an adverse Christian response. When Kinsey I think of Facebook, I see a place that my parents have inhabited, and they post pictures of me all the time. It’s a place of reruns, where the funny memes I saw weeks ago are just now being seen. Most people my age have moved on to other popular social media sites such as Instagram, Snapchat and, my personal favorite, Twitter. Among parents, Facebook is the best thing ever. But has Facebook lost its edge with the younger generation? Let’s pick it apart. My initial reaction is an
WEST SIDE TIMES
unequivocal yes.
"When I think of Facebook, I see a place that my parents have inhabited, and they post pictures of me all the time." I have moved on from Facebook in favor of its more popular counterpart, Instagram. Still, Facebook has some positives that make me consider it’s benefits. I find myself checking it more frequently lately because it has become a Craigslist-like marketplace in which you can buy, sell and trade items with people in your area. It’s a safer platform than Craigslist because in some instances you end up connecting with people you know. I traded Editors: Quaneisha Washington Adviser: Suzanne Olsen Crain Mentors: Victor Galvan
a Rose Gold iPhone 6s for a Playstation 4 that I wanted for two years. Of course, I’m also able to communicate with some of my older relatives and keep up with them. I’m a famous star on my mom’s Facebook page. I have had many a relative call me, and reference the “cute picture” they saw on their Facebook wall. Beyond that, Facebook has limited appeal. Many adults have infiltrated Facebook, and as a result many teenagers steer clear. Many of my friends no longer access the site and, peer pressure being what it is, ridicule anyone who still does. The few times I do post, just to keep my page looking fresh, I always have to double check whatever I say to make sure I stay out of trouble. So while Facebook hasn’t totally lost its edge, it has lost some of its allure.
How much is a vote worth? As we approach the inauguration of president-elect Donald Trump, an entrepreneur Trinity and celebrity Warren with little to no political experience, I can only wonder whether this would be possible if everyone eligible to vote had actually participated. Would those who benefit from food stamps or the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) have participated if they knew that Trump has voiced doubt over whether these programs should continue over concern about abuse? News flash: not everyone abuses these programs. Many actually count on them.
When Trump was elected, I was at first upset; but there’s nothing I, or anybody else, can do about it. Eligible voters who stayed home could’ve made a big difference, and those votes would have represented people like me, who are not old enough and could not voice our opinions on an election that directly impacts OUR futures. We can only blame those who didn’t get up and vote. So many people claimed afterward that their vote would not have altered the outcome. Who knows? The totals in three midwest states, including Michigan, were very close, and there are ongoing recounts in several states. Who’s to say that every single vote did not matter? What I can say for certain is that we are stuck with the choice so many made not to participate. We are stuck with it for at least the next four years.
Staff Writers: Brittney Blue, Carre’ Burks, Bria Coleman, Ashlee Diamond, Davontea Fast, Lashaunta Hornsby-Oliver, Ruben Jasso, Nia Kelley, Christian Kinsey, David Little, Samantha Patton, Andre Riley, Brandon Rogers, Trinity Warren
22 DetroitDialogue.com Dec. 21, 2016 STUDENT LIFE
VIRTUAL REALITY IS HERE. WILL IT LAST? By Dehvin Banks The Communicator Imagine an African safari with wild animals roaming as far as the eye can see. To your right, a wild boar is being silently pursued by a lion hiding in the grass. To your left, a glistening lake full of playful hippos. This is your classroom. This is your future. Virtual reality, or VR, headsets may start appearing in classrooms.
The technology is available for most phones and capable computers with headsets such as Samsung’s Gear VR and Google’s Daydream View and less-expensive cardboard versions. Even video game consoles are developing their own variations, making VR technology highly accessible. With virtual reality, you have the ability to experience new worlds and places, from the top of the Eiffel Tower to a mental asylum.
“I’d visit the world of the Last of Us,” said senior Kaylynn Fowler. “It’s just so dark and gritty.” VR technology has educational benefits because any place on the earth - past or present - can be visited. These are your classrooms and because it’s an
Communication & Media Arts
immersive experience, there are fewer distractions. This offers an alternative to arguably passive teaching methods that can fail to engage students during a lesson. It’s not all good in the world of VR. According to media reports, using VR devices for a long period of time can cause headaches, dizziness, blurred vision, and queasiness. Headset maker Oculus VR’s website warns of various side effects ranging
STUDENT LIFE
COLLEGIATE SCIENCE
Ben Carson freshmen visit Wayne State chemistry department By Alexis Williams The Diagnostic In November, Benjamin Carson High School freshmen had the opportunity to visit Wayne State University’s chemistry department and tour the area under the guidance of Dr. Emil Lozanov. “The students went to Wayne State, into an actual college classroom and had an actual college professor and go through different experiments that you would go through in a normal chemistry class,” said Kwesi Matthews, 9th grade biology teacher.
from fatigue and impaired balance to severe seizures. The negative side effects makes senior Jaila Logan hesitant about the new technology. “It’s fun and all but I just don’t think it’s for everyone,” she said. With any new technology the same question arises: Is this technology needed or is it just a gimmick? Only time will tell.
STUDENT LIFE
CMA hosts annual senior pinning By Amanda Duren The Communicator The Communication & Media Arts High School senior class hosted its annual Senior Pinning Breakfast ceremony at the Atheneum Suite Hotel in Downtown Detroit. The ceremony provided parents, guardians, faculty and staff an opportunity to acknowledge the seniors of 2017 as candidates for graduation; along with their many accomplishments. The class pledged to focus on opportunity, vigilance and success. At the ceremony, parents and guardians pinned their student senior, and then they were given a red rose by Principal Donya Odom.
Benjamin Carson Communication & Media Arts “From there, the group split up into three groups where one group went and practiced experiments, another group went and took a tour of the chemistry building, and then the third group went to a planetarium show,” Matthews said. Dr. Lozanov prepared a show for the students. “For about one hour in the lecture hall I gave inspiring science and chemistry demonstrations, designed as magic,” Lozanov said in an email. “By introducing a part of chemistry, telling the day of any month and date, multiplying two digit numbers, I wanted to excite the students and show that chemistry and mathematics are not boring -- they are a lot of fun.” Topics covered in the experiments
THE DIAGNOSTIC
Dr. Lozanov led Ben Carson students through experiments at Wayne State.
included matter, physical and chemical change (chemical reactions), elements, compounds, plating (copper metal covers iron nails), oxidation, reduction, pH scale, pH of some home substances , acids, bases, and acid rain. “I was impressed with the knowledge of the ninth grade students, their interest in chemistry, and the discipline at the time of the experiment,” Lozanov said. “It’s important for students to have trips
to universities to learn more about science and chemistry and to do experiments in real chemistry laboratories following safety rules. The students also had a planetarium show and a trip in the chemistry department research lab, where they learned how chemistry research goestopics, equipment and safety. In field trips students increase their knowledge, and I hope the ninth graders also learned.”
“It was a really good pledge and showed lot of character to our parents and guardians,” said CMA senior Darnell Thaxer. Guest speaker Dr. Donald Bryant Jr. provided words of inspiration at the ceremony. “His speech gave her inspiration to keep going and trying no matter what,” said CMA senior Kaylynn Fowler. Class president Patricia Johnson asked all seniors to meet graduation requirements by June for a smooth progression into college.
"It was a really good pledge and showed lot of character to our parents and guardians." Darnell Thaxer, CMA senior
STUDENT LIFE
Health Care: A Right or A Privilege? By Jessica Ruffins Pink Lady Press Website Who.int defines Universal Health Coverage (UHC) as, “all people can use the promotive, preventive, curative, rehabilitative and palliative health services they need, of sufficient quality to be effective, while also ensuring that the use of these services does not expose the user to financial hardship.” Who.int continues to explain that the, “UHC embodies three related objectives: Equity in access to health services -- everyone who needs
services should get them, not only those who can pay for them; the quality of health services should be good enough to improve the health of those receiving services; and people should be protected against financial-risk, ensuring that the cost of using services does not put people at risk of financial harm.” During this year’s presidential election debates, this was one of the biggest topics discussed. Which poses the question: Is health care a right or a privilege?
Detroit International Academy for Young Women Karen Pugh, 44, said the idea of free health care “is a good thing because a lot of people can’t afford healthcare.” What are the economic disadvantages of universal health care? Senator and former presidential candidate Bernie Sanders introduced a plan during his presidential run that would cost on average $13.8
trillion over a 10-year period, with increases in taxes for the wealthiest of Americans, writes FiscalTimes.com. An article in Forbes.com said: “U.S. government entities spend more per person on healthcare than all but two countries in the world. The two advanced economies with the most economically free health care systems are Switzerland and Singapore and both countries have achieved universal health insurance while spending a fraction of what the U.S. spends.” President-elect Donald J. Trump plans to reform “public policy that will broaden healthcare access,
make healthcare more affordable and improve the quality of the care available to all Americans” as stated on donaldjtrump.com. Andrea Hill, 25 and unemployed said, “because every person is contributing to the nation somehow, so in return the nation should supply limited healthcare” therefore they are being denied a civil right. Pamela Ruffins, age 46 and a coordinator of an outreach program that helps economically challenged, has clients without healthcare. Ruffins said, “There is an average of 37% a month” of people who don’t have healthcare. In the end, is healthcare a right or privilege?
Dec. 21, 2016 DetroitDialogue.com 23 STUDENT LIFE
PINK L ADY PRESS
Many students celebrate the holiday differently.
HOW WE CELEBRATE CHRISTMAS By Brianna Parker Pink Lady Press Detroit International Academy is filled with a diverse group of ladies who are met with pending holiday season. During this time of year, decorations for Christmas adorn hallways and lunchrooms. Decorated Christmas trees and a fake fireplace put students in the spirit of the holiday. But not everyone celebrates Christmas.
Detroit International Academy for Young Women DPS Community District has always given a two-week break to celebrate Christmas and the New Year, but what do students do when Christmas is not part of their religion? “Christmas is a very untraditional holiday,” senior Rejwana Sadia said. “Ramadan is similar to Christmas and that is what we celebrate. “Every year around the Christmas holiday me and my cousins have a party where we spend quality time together and catch up.” “My family plays secret Santa which is a very traditional game, usually done around Christmas time to ensure everyone gets a gift,” senior Mubasshira Mumin said. Sania Begum thinks “Christmas is nothing special” and she usually catches up on her sleep during this time of year.
GSA
Organization supports students for LGBT rights
STUDENT LIFE
BURDENED BY STRESS By Juanita Zuniga The Howler Detroit Cristo Rey senior Roberto Nunez says if he’s lucky, he logs four or five hours of sleep per night. Most would be alarmed by such a short amount of shuteye, but for high school students, it can be typical. Teens are supposed to get nine and a half hours of sleep, according to nationwide childrens.org. However, with eight long classes, extracurriculars, and homework in almost every class students are used to four to five hours of sleep.
Cristo Rey On top of lack of sleep, seniors biggest stressor is college. We all want to go. We want to do what our parents couldn’t. We want to be able to say we made it out. We want to be somebody. Well, try having to apply to college on top of all that work. Definitely not an easy task. Are students supposed to not do homework for two or three of your classes so you can have more time to finish your applications? Or are they supposed to skip practice to do your homework? Students are sleep-deprived, frustrated, and most importantly-stressed. “I’m stressed the most in school, I’ve been applying to colleges and I haven’t been accepted to any yet. The teachers help but they’re not much help when I have to teach myself the material” said senior, Daniela Lugo. Stress is a very serious mental strain that can be caused by negative and exhausting work. In a study done by John Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 78 percent of teens said that school is their source of stress. School can be competitive and exhausting work. Not all students are the same, but the pressure to be perfect is still there. “It’s frustrating. I don't want to be bothered and I want to give up” said senior Saubir Logan. Most seniors thought the last year of school was supposed to be fun, but some students are so
THE HOWLER
Many students face lack of sleep , in response to overwhelming amounts of activities and work.
consumed with their schoolwork that they can’t enjoy the weekends. “I don’t do much on the weekends, because it would be hard to get to think about that and school work,” said Nunez. For seniors, this is their last year of high school. They shouldn't be dealing with stress and wanting to give up. They should be preparing for college and taking the year into their own hands. Stress forces us to cross out what we think is fun or entertaining. We want to give up. We want to quit. However, stress has a negative impact on our psyche which encourages a fixed-mindset. The biggest problem is time. “If we had more time, I would be able to get things like homework done, instead of trying
"We want to be equally recognized, appreciated and most importantly, be accepted. " Ray Adams, East English Village senior
FROM PAGE 12
an environment that is more accepting and supporting of all students. Conaway said she believes the LGBT law is “a great victory for equality and a really great way for everyone to feel safe.” Schools are responsible for providing a safe learning environment for all students.
to get to school early and doing it in the morning.” said Logan. Yet, time seems to not exist when you have to be at school at before 7:30, a test first hour, a project due in second hour, “suggestions” which are really homework in third hour, another test in fourth hour, a skit in fifth hour, apply to scholarships in sixth hour, translations due in seventh hour, and a spread due in eighth hour. But, it doesn’t stop there, you have extracurricular period for homework help and to attend club meetings. Then, school's out at four and you have practice at five. However, there is a solution to reduce some overwhelming work. Accepting that you cannot control everything gives your situation perspective, according to the Anxiety and Depression
SICK
Tips for staying healthy this winter season FROM PAGE 4
However, many LGBT students experience bullying and harassment because of their sexual orientation and their gender expression. Even though safety is a major concern with the newly adopted bathroom law, dedicated bathrooms would decrease bullying rates for the LGBT community. On the other hand, a dedicated
bathroom could be considered discriminatory and created isolation. Ray Adams, a senior at East English Village said: “LGBT’s are humans and should be granted with equal rights equivalent to any other citizen. We want to be equally recognized, appreciated and most importantly, be accepted.”
“The most common way to contract a cold is to touch a surface that has been sneezed or coughed on, the droplets from the cough or sneeze are left on a surface, and when you touch the surface then go to touch your face the bacteria is transferred through one of the mucus membranes on your face,
Association of America. Don’t skip meals, and when you do eat, make it balanced. Talk to someone, teachers, counselors, and friends help you see the bright side of the situations. Get enough sleep because when you’re stress your body needs additional hours of sleep. And finally, learn what triggers your anxiety to find a pattern. Students, like Logan and Nunez, have found that playing their favorite sport, helps reduce the stress that’s built up. “When I play basketball, everything goes away for a little while. It helps me get my mind off things,” said Logan. Detroit Cristo Rey senior Roberto Nunez says if he’s lucky, he logs four or five hours of sleep per night. which are the eyes, mouth, or nose.” said Dr. Walter Davis. Prevention of viruses and common colds can be very simple. According to Dr. Sandra Adamson Fryhofer: “Mom was right when she told you to eat right and get plenty of rest. That, along with exercise and stress reduction, keeps your immune system healthy and better able to withstand infection. Eat plenty of vegetables and fruits that offer antioxidants. Try to get eight or seven hours of sleep a night.”
24 DetroitDialogue.com Dec. 21, 2016 STUDENT LIFE
STUDENT LIFE
All-girls school helps students focus on education By Indea-Arie Fields Pink Lady Press People have mixed ideas about an all-girls school, even if they haven’t ever attended one. There’s an old saying, never judge a book by its cover. Therefore, never judge a school by its name. The new incoming ladies of Detroit International Academy had doubts, at first, but have quickly learned that sometimes a lot of one thing can be a good thing.
Detroit International Academy for Young Women After several weeks, what do new students think? Here’s what they said: “It’s cool, but weird,” says sophomore Javion Willis, “because it’s all girls and I’m used to boys and girls.” Freshman Arieana Gee-Smith said: “It’s straight and good, also kind of interesting. I never thought that being around all girls would be more educational.” “It’s OK,” freshman Gabriele Montgomery said. “It feels like it’s a good thing. Maybe I can stay focused and not worry about boys.” Sophomore Rochelle Ambrose says she’s found “a sisterhood here.” “All girls, more focus, a better education for me,” Willis said.
THE COMMUNICATOR
CMA has recently started a recycling initiative to help the environment.
FR0M PURPLE TO GREEN CMA starts recycling initiative with new staff member
By Tarious Porter The Communicator Newly staffed teacher Ms.Elwood has been the leader of CMA’S recycling initiative. “We had a slow start to begin with,” Elwood said. With 3 billion to 6 billion
ELECTION 2016
Communication & Media Arts “Over the past few months the amount of paper we been recycling has significantly gone
up,” said Ms. Clawson. Students and teachers have been more than happy to cooperate with Clawson’s weekly recycle collection. It’s up to the kids of the new generation to take the earth’s health into their own hands.
ELECTION 2016
Post Election: We’re still reeling By Noel Toliver Pink Lady Press It’s over and in December a new president will take office. Detroit International Academy was a buzz for days after the election, as were most. Where do we go from here? Junior Erin McGee said: “I thought Hillary Clinton would win the election. Unlike Donald Trump, she has a better view of the future for America, our environment and she wanted to help our youth.” Tiara Ward, a junior at DIA says, “I didn’t want Donald Trump to win, but I knew he would. The majority of white Americans voted for him to be the leader of the country because he looks good. They focused on his image instead of what he can do to lead the country. Hillary Clinton didn’t stand up for women’s rights and she would only, I believe, put her efforts to white Americans.”
trees cut down per year every bit counts when it comes to recycling. This is one reason why Elwood is trying to get students motivated just as she was in through a school environmental club.
History teacher Edna Williams says she wanted Hillary Clinton to win. “I already saw the first African American president in office and it was time for a woman to lead this country,” she said. She would have motivated our young girls everywhere to follow their dreams.”
Detroit International Academy for Young Women Hillary Clinton planned to improve America,” Junior Robyn Morgan said. “She wanted to end poverty and help the middle class.” Then there’s Trump who, according to npr.org, said, in his first 100 days in office he will, “Make America Great Again” by repealing and replacing Obamacare and ending illegal immigration. But will it be great?
Trump’s win promotes bullying By Ajanee Kelly and Alaunna Mckeithen The Communicator Donald Trump was elected the 45th president of the U.S. and it has been a very close and emotional election. Throughout the election, candidates Hillary Clinton and President-elect Trump participated in several contemptuous debates. “Bullying is always wrong, it’s very uncomfortable for others going through bullying, especially since the future president is promoting this, it’s as if the president is promoting bullying, which shouldn’t be promoted at all,” said Malaysia Townsend, a freshman at Oak Park Freshman Institute. Sometimes you can’t do anything about it, the same with skin. Everyone is not perfect, so why tease others for their mistakes?
People as a society should know better than that.
Communication & Media Arts “Bullying is never right for anyone regardless of gender, race, or disabilities," said Bridgette Fleming, a mother of three said. «We shouldn’t let a president be a reason for bullying either.” Throughout the election and after, the fear of Trump winning has ignited fear that black people would be “back to the slave ship” according to some Twitter users tweeting with the hashtag “#DonaldTrumpisnotmypresident. Trump has made provoking and insulting comments towards minorities, women and the disabled; making him seem unfit to serve as Chief Executive Officer.
Despite all of his shortcomings, he remains victorious. On Election Day, the early poll numbers showed that Clinton was slated to make history by winning and becoming the first female president. In the end, Clinton won the popular votes with 62,403,269 and Trump with 61,242,652. But it all comes down to the electoral votes which Trump has won, making him the presidentelect, which many weren’t too happy about. “I feel the election was rigged, I also feel the election was totally unfair, prejudice and they were in favor of the republicans” said senior Xakeya McKinley. “America showed us who they really are, a lot of people who we work with, befriend, and even love voted for this man whose opinion are misogynistic, racist and chauvinistic,” Officer Earl Brooks said.
Dec. 21, 2016 DetroitDialogue.com 25
CT VISIONARY
The Cass Tech varsity basketball team’s senior players and head coach Hall gathered around the construction site that will soon become the new home of the Detroit Pistons.
SPORTS
NEW HOME FOR DETROIT PISTONS
On Nov. 22, the Detroit Pistons announced a plan to build 60 basketball courts as part of the team’s move to Detroit. A press conference was held at Cass Tech High School with Piston’s owner Tom Gores, Ilitch Holdings Inc. President and CEO Christopher Ilitch and Mayor Mike Duggan. STUDENT LIFE
Students graduating at their own pace
By Lashaunta Oliver West Side Times Two West Side Academy seniors graduating in June have followed different journeys to their destination, thanks to the school’s unique education model. WSA has long been a school where students come to catch up on credits they may have lost in freshman or sophomore year by moving through the curriculum at an accelerated pace and concentrating on courses through extended day classes. Nia Kelley, 16, and Ashlee Diamond, 18, are two examples. Kelley is defying the odds of making up classes by getting on track to graduate at the end of the 2016-17 school year. She has been a student at WSA for two and a half years, and during that time has excelled in all of her classes. While not necessarily planning to graduate early, Kelley was surprised to find
out the news by her counselor Andrea Hollingshed and WSA Principal Andrea Ayler.
West Side “It’s pretty shocking, since I assumed I would have another whole year in school,” said Kelley. Although most classes were easy to her, she did have more struggles in math than other subjects. “Math has definitely been the most challenging subject for me, but because I knew that, I just worked harder in those classes,” said Kelley. Kelley credits her mother, family, teachers and principal for keeping her on track during her early years in high school. “I would like to thank Mrs. Suzanne Olsen, Mr. Donald Evans, attendance agents Mr. Alvin Belcher and Mr. Michael Godwin, my mother and my family for helping me and believing in me. Without
WEST SIDE TIMES
Nia Kelly (left) and Ashlee Diamond (right) were able to utilize West Side Academy's flexible schedule to catch up and get ahead on credits. Both will graduate from West Side Academy at the end of the 2016-2017 school year.
them and their support, I would not have felt like I could have handled the pressure of taking extra online
classes and moving forward so quickly,” said Kelley. Kelley will be 17 when she
graduates and she plans to attend Oakland University after graduation, but has no plan for her major. Diamond came to WSA two years ago behind in credits, but determined to get back on track. At the time, she was close to a year behind. She not only caught up on her credits, but she chose to spread out her last few classes over next semester, rather than graduate early. Being an athlete is very important to Diamond, so she opted to stay in order to finish out her last basketball, softball and track seasons. “It has been difficult to catch up, but it was worth all of the extra hours of homework and studying,” said Diamond. West Side Academy has long been a school where students come to catch up on credits they may have lost in freshman or sophomore year.
26 DetroitDialogue.com Dec. 21, 2016
A PARADE OF
CHAMPIONS
By Tayauna Holloway and Imani Tripp Cruaders' Chronicle n Dec. 5, the Cass Tech and King varsity football teams were honored for their state championship titles with parade down Woodard Avenue in Detroit. This is the first time that two high schools from Detroit Public Schools Community District brought home a state championship in their respective divisions. Cass plays in Div. 1 and King is in Div. 2. “It was the first time that two teams from the same district won state championships from the Detroit Public School League,” said math teacher Dwayne Harvey. There were floats, marching bands, dancers, and school groups from the schools and community in the parade. Alumni from both schools were there to cheer on the Technicians’ and Crusaders’ football teams. “I think it was really about
O
King’s assistant principal Lawrence Fitz cheers on King and Cass at the Spirit of Detroit.
time for us to be honored. We haven’t really done anything like this in my years being here and I think that it was absolutely a good thing,” said sophomore Ceira Thorpe. The parade began at Grand Circus Park and ended in front of the Spirit of Detroit. Interim Superintendent Alycia Meriweather and radio personality Mason from 105.9 FM were two of the many speakers at the event. “It kind of felt good that we’re getting recognized and honored for something that we are actually good at, something that we actually love, something that we put our hopes in, and for us to be division champs, two times, back-to-back, it just felt nice,” said senior Latrell Landers. The community knows that when King and Cass meet each other on the football field it is serious business but On Dec. 5, both schools came together because together both teams made history.
ABOVE: Principals Lisa Phillips of Cass (left) and Deborah Jenkins of King (right) honor the players for a good well done. LEFT: Cass Tech cheerleaders brace the cold to celebrate their team's championship. BELOW: Head coaches Thomas Wilcher (Cass) and Tyrone Spencer (King) spoke to both teams about this season and the championship games.
Dec. 21, 2016 DetroitDialogue.com 27
Technicians’ quarterback Rodney Hall and Crusaders’ varsity football captain Ambry Thomas speak to the crowd about how happy they are for both teams.
ABOVE: Interim Superintendent Alycia Meriweather reminds everyone who gathered at the Spirit of Detroit that DPSCD has many positive things happening within the district. ABOVE LEFT: Members of the Cass Tech football team ride on a float during the parade. LEFT: Players, coaches and fans from both schools gathered in front of the Spirit of Detroit.
28 DetroitDialogue.com Dec. 21, 2016 SPORTS
CRUSADERS' CHRONICLE
LEFT: Senior and linebacker Cepeda Phillips (seen hugging head coach Tyrone Spencer) is full of emotion at the end of the game. “I was happy for my team, for my coach, and proud of myself for winning a state championship my senior year,” said Phillips. BELOW: Crusaders salute the flag during the singing of the National Anthem.
STATE CHAMPS, AGAIN! Crusaders end emotional season on top By Carrimia Owens Crusader's Chronicle The Crusaders’ varsity football team win over Walled Lake Western Warriors on Nov. 25 at Ford Field marks the first time in King’s history for back-to-back Division 2 State Championships. King trampled on Walled Lake, 18-0. “Winning back-to-back state championships shows how good a team really is and how hard they work,” said head coach Tyrone Spencer. The Warriors, known for their strong defense, had a couple of plays that prevented the Crusaders from scoring. “Playing against Western was hard defense wise,” said senior and defensive tackle Darius McDuffy. “Their defense wasn’t letting up and it was somewhat of a struggle but we came through.”
King The Warriors had not won a state championship in quite some time and found themselves scoreless against King. “This is the first time in 30 years that a team has been shutout in the state finals,” said defensive line coach Leon Crenshaw. Senior cornerback Jesse Scarber and junior cornerback JaeVeyon Morton did their thing on the field. Each intercepted a pass and scored a touchdown. “Jesse Scarber stepped up big time this season to help the team achieve a lot,” said Crenshaw. “JaeVeyon Morton had a great season. I don’t know where the team would be without him.” The win is bittersweet for the
16 seniors on King’s team because this was their last high school football game. “I played in two of the three state championship games and each one was different from the last,” said senior and defensive tackle Damani Green. “But this state championship game was the best and exhilarating for me because it’s my last game.” After head coach Dale Harvel died of a heart attack on July 22, the football team decided to dedicate this season to him. “It was great to win for Coach Harv,” said senior and defensive back Jorden Marks. “Everyone told us we couldn’t win after Harvel died. It was great to prove them wrong. Dedicating our season to him is what drove us to win.” “If Harvel was here he would be proud of his team,” said Spencer.
CRUSADERS' CHRONICLE
Senior and cornerback Jesse Scarber scores a touchdown in the third quarter.
SPORTS
CASS TECH WINS STATE TITLE TERRELL GROGGINS/SPECIAL TO THE CT VISIONARY
TOP:Donovan Peoples-Jones makes a catch for Cass Tech. RIGHT: Coach Thomas Wilcher addresses his team.