Voice May 24, 2018

BEHIND

EVERY

SMILE 10 students share stories of carrying on through life’s challenges. pages 13-20

Voice The

your school. your voice.

Volume 59, Issue 6 May 23 , 2018

NEWS

Events pile up in May for seniors Prom

Prom is a very special occasion for seniors because they will be celebrating it with their friends. Some students consider it the best night of high school. Seniors celebrated the prom this year at Grand Ledge Opera House on May 11. The tickets for the prom this year cost $40 for a single ticket and $70 for a couples ticket.

Every year, prom has a different theme.

This year’s theme was Egyptian.

“We are doing Cairo night, which is an Egyptian theme,” said senior class advisor Cathleen Weaver. “There will be like pyramids and artwork from ancient time and I think there will be all the pictures that kids did on the tables.”

3.5+ Honor Reception

There was a reception for the seniors to honor them for excelling in their classes and getting a 3.5 or higher GPA. “I have a 3.5 [GPA] and I think it’s good to do the senior honors because people with a 3.5 work hard, especially senior year because there is a lot going on,” said senior Timothy Houser.

Presentation of Roses started over 60 years ago at Everett High School as a MotherDaughter Tea around the time of Mother’s Day. At first, the event was for senior girls and mothers to show their gratitude and appreciation for all of their support and to present them with a rose as a symbol of their love. As time went by, it evolved into an event for all seniors and has been an annual senior spring event ever since.

The presentation is a unique event for Everett that took place in the cafeteria May 22.

Not every senior participated in the Presentation of Roses, but most think it’s a good idea.

“I’m not going because my mom works but I think it’s a cute idea to give your loved ones a flower as appreciation,” said senior Samantha Cha.

Senior Awards

Counselor Ezekiel Moreno reads the names of the award recipients at the Senior Academic Award Ceremony held in the large auditorium on Thursday, May 17. This is one of many events for seniors in May.

All seniors are expected to go to the Senior Awards. The awards will be held on May 24 at 8:00 a.m. The school doesn’t want the seniors to go to the Senior Awards wearing flip flop sandals or slippers, but instead dressing nicely.

After four years of hard work, seniors are thankful for the chance to see their efforts appreciated.

“It’s good to recognize what the students achieved mostly because we don’t get a lot of recognition,” said senior David Tran.

2 • The Voice • May 24, 2018 • myvikingvoice.com

Coming soon:

3 new AP classes offer college credit possibilities Robert Miller Social Media Editor Next year, Everett students have three new classes for Advanced Placement Program options: AP World History, AP Environmental Science, and AP Studio Art. With these new options for AP classes, people have many questions about taking these AP classes, like if they are faster paced, or if AP classes are significantly harder than a regular class.

The first option, AP World history,

is going to be very different than the regular speed of a world history class.

“Anybody taking my AP World History class can expect a much fasterpaced environment, with much more being covered,” said John Coon, the future AP World History class.

Coon is also very confident about being able to teach the new AP class.

“Because this is a new class, I don’t really have any benchmark to compare myself to, but I’m certain that I’ll be able to teach my kids and prepare them for the AP exam,” said Coon.

Another new AP class available,

AP Studio Art, is for the more artistic people at Everett.

“It is heavily student-driven. Kids have to produce a new work and write a wall text every week,” said AP Art Studio teacher Sarah Schumacher.

AP Studio Art is going to be much more difficult than a regular art class, and anyone who takes it needs to be prepared for a much heavier workload.

“It’s going to be a lot of work.

Don’t sign up for the class if you aren’t ready to work out your artistic muscle or if you often miss school,” said Schumacher.

ARIANNA ORTA

May is a very busy month for the seniors.

In addition to graduation, many events fill the days and nights of seniors as they sprint to the finish line of their high school educations.

Presentation of Roses

ARIANNA ORTA

Maryam Al Shankool Reporter

Senior NHS members (left) recreate their junior group photo (above) on Monday, May 21. 18 juniors were inducted, seniors received their NHS tassels, and parents had the opportunity to say something to their senior. Afterwards, everyone celebrated with cookies and punch.

Science/journalism partnership wins grant Robert Miller Social Media Editor On January 15, journalism teacher Chad Sanders’ and science teacher Klaudia Burton’s journalism and environmental science classes received a Knight Center Environmental Journalism Grant to put toward their classes.

The two teachers applied for the grant together on November 27. Each teacher receives $1,000 to use for whatever their class needs.

The journalism class is planning to use the $1,000 they received as further funding for The Viking Voice to continue publishing newspapers.

“I’ve received grants for things like cameras in the past, but no one ever wants to fund printing, which is our biggest need,” said Sanders. “The Knight

grant is rare in that it specifically goes towards printing our newspaper.”

They also had agreed on creating a timeline of the science class project by going to any field trips they took to cover that information.

Meanwhile, the grant money received by the Environmental Science class will go towards any materials needed for the class, with a specific project in mind.

Students in Burton’s class are very excited and happy about the class, and for this funding.

“I enjoy my Environmental Science class, because it teaches me relevant information about the environmental issues around us and provides an interesting way to learn it because of our amazing teacher,” said senior Hailey Knapp.

NEWS

Spring has sprung at

Everett DANCE Every year the dance program has a special concert for its seniors, many of whom are in Dance Company. Dancers perform solos, group dances and more. At the end they received roses.

BASEBALL The JV baseball team played against Okemos high school on May 10.

3 • The Voice • May 24, 2018 • myvikingvoice.com

TENNIS This year the tennis team was given a bus so players would have transportation to the courts. Coach Judith Kramer also stepped down, replaced by Nate Schwarzbeck, who formerly coached tennis at Williamston.

ROBOTICS The robotics team competes with schools across Michigan. At their first meet March 22 against Mason, they reached the Grand Final, and almost made it to the Finals.

Should we have late start Wednesdays at all?

Katelyn Bailey Social Media Editor

are cut off twenty minutes so we’re left with forty minute classes, in which many teachers just pass out worksheets, since they know they won’t have much time to teach.

Students don’t really get much out of late start days. Forty minute classes aren’t worth getting extra sleep because everything feels rushed, with not enough time in any class to do a good job on the assignment.

Although, students still get that extra time to sleep in and it’s nice to go into school when the sun is out in the morning and it’s not as cold. It can also give teachers a day in the week to let students take some time to finish their work.

To change this, I feel that instead of having a late start in the middle of the week, we shouldn’t have one at all or at least make it on a different day of the week, such as Fridays, since we already have the weekend ahead of us and it would make it easier for students to wake up in the morning.

JOHN MILLER

Every Wednesday in the Lansing School District is Late Start Wednesday. It’s the one day of the week that students get to come to school later than usual.

It allows students to get some extra sleep and get a couple of hours less of school, but it can ruin your sleep schedule. It gives us less time for learning, and students don’t really get much out of it.

Late Start Wednesdays can ruin your sleep schedule. Students are typically supposed to get around eight hours of sleep, and having a day in the middle of the week can throw it off, making Thursday feel like a Monday. Getting a day in the middle of the week can make students even more tired and off track.

Late Starts give us less time for learning.

On a typical school day, we have almost an entire hour for classes. On late start days, classes

OPINION

Our Voice

Editors offer each class advice for successful 18-19

Classes in the summer? Drop the stigma

Advice from a graduating freshman: I heard from my friends and family that high school is scary on the first day of school.

Usually I would be scared going to a school that I didn’t know anybody, but since I’ve been coming here for three years I was fine. I’m in New Tech 9th grade and it wasn’t hard like I thought. I met new teachers and students and created a bond with them. The first day of school we were starting a project already.

I had to learn how to manage work, and make sure I didn’t get behind. If you are struggling ask your teacher for help, they are glad to help and some even stay after for tutoring.

Finally, study. If I didn’t study for tests or have a study group, I probably wouldn’t be passing.

Now I’m going to 10th grade, and sophomore year is going to be so crazy. I hope I pass all my classes. Having a learning disability makes it harder, but knowing how to manage deadlines and studying helps me manage it.

4 • The Voice • May 24, 2018 • myvikingvoice.com

Arianna Orta Reporter School’s almost out, but for some students break will be a short one due to a missing credit.

Summer school for high school kids is worth going to earn your credit back for a class you failed, but there should be some changes made to make the experience better for everyone.

Teens get exhausted being stuck in a room for 1-3 hours each day. The school should have something like summer school, but one that you could do at home on a device.

I feel like students would do that at home instead of coming to the school for couple of hours just to get a credit for one class.

People say some students come, but don't do anything during that hour. If you’re going to come to not do anything, then don’t come at all because there is no point to sign up and come to not do anything.

You’re not being forced to come, but if you want to graduate on time you need to care and come.

Not everyone who fails a class needs summer school. If you don't want to go to summer school, and you’re not a senior, you could retake the class the following year.

Having a whole semester during the school year instead of only a few weeks for the class in the summer could increase student learning. Another option is taking APEX next year. APEX lets you make up work online during school hours.

The summer school deadline is coming soon! Before you give up your summer, though, think about your other options. There are often other ways to get those credits you missed.

Don’t ditch graduation, it’s once in a lifetime Arianna Orta Reporter

The last day for seniors is May 25, and for many seniors the month of May is a busy month. Seniors get stressed out due to many events. Some seniors think there is no point to come to their graduation, some even say that they don't care to walk the stage just to get their diploma and that they prefer to have it mailed to their homes.

Seniors should attend graduation. I would want my parents to see me walk across the stage and looking at the smile on their face.

There are students who may not have family in the crowd on graduation day, and it’s understandable that they may not want to go.

But graduation is a big event, and you may

regret not attending later on. It’s only a couple of slightly boring hours. Then, you’ll have no regrets.

It’s also possible that someone doesn’t want to attend because they don’t have money for their graduation expenses. But there are ways for everyone to be able to walk. There are gowns and dress clothes that can be borrowed so you can be present at graduation.

If you don't want to go because you think it’s a waste of time, don’t be selfish. Even if you don’t want to go, you shouldn’t steal the moment from family members who want to see your success.

Graduation is a once in a lifetime experience. I think that whoever has a chance to go to their graduation should go, because you only graduate from high school one time.

Sophomores still have time to be kids: The transition from being a sophomore to a junior is a good feeling, knowing that I’m excelling in life. My graduation slowly approaching means I have to mature and act more like an adult. Although it’s sucky because I don’t wanna grow up knowing that in a couple years I will have to worry about budgeting, rent, student loans, and paying for my own things. I like being a kid; it's the easy you can have fun and you don't have to worry much about things. As I’m focusing on school and being successful adulthood is coming a lot closer than I think.

Although it may seem like graduation is right around the corner, don't forget to enjoy being a kid with little to no responsibilities. ​ Senior stress as a junior: The end of my summer before junior year I tried to deal with trying to have fun, working, and homework, but I did it. As school started I knew that AP Biology would be most stressful but then I realized English was going to kill

my brain. During junior year I learned that I needed to grow up. I needed to get my stuff together and figure out what I needed to do for senior year. During junior year you do a lot of things that have to do with college, plus having to keep up with your grades. Junior year really has you think about your future. Sometimes taking regular classes can help you out with the stress of junior year. Always stay committed because if you aren’t you won’t succeed.

Advice from a former junior: Junior year has been the most stressful and busiest school year so far. From studying and preparing for the SAT to making sure your GPA is where you want it to be, it has been quite the change from 10th grade to 11th grade. Depending if you take advanced classes or not, the amount of work you get in 11th grade is a lot. There have been so many essays, tests, and assignments given. Classes have been much more difficult as well. For sophomores transitioning to 11th grade, make sure you stay on task; don’t be lazy and let your grades slip, this is in fact your most important year of school to help and start to prepare yourself for college.

New school, old memories: Four years go by way faster than you think. I look back and now realize that the year is over for me. I will no longer be a high schooler but a college freshmen, I won’t have to go to class as much as I do now, I’ll have more free time but yet a lot more responsibilities. I think we all said “I want to graduate already” but when it gets to the end life hits you!

You realize you’ll have to grow up a little more, some of us will move out while others don’t, that college tuition is no joke and rent doesn’t wait. So while you can don’t grow up ! Go out with your friends and have fun, don’t be afraid to join a club or sports. Just do it! Don’t let your fear conquer you, because these are the memories you will cherish one day.

OPINION

New Tech doesn’t get enough credit Robert Miller Online Editor

3900 Stabler Road Lansing, MI 48910 (517)755-4472 myvikingvoice.com myvikingvoice@gmail.com THE STAFF EDITORS Briana Orta Vazquez (Editor-inChief) Ryan Hicks (News) Katrina Schacht (Opinion) Emylie Gillette (Features) Itzel Lopez (Entertainment) Madyson Gillette (Sports) Charnelle Smith (Photo Story) Robert Miller (Online) Asia Ruiz (Business Manager) Katelyn Bailey (Social Media Editor) Josiah Thao (Photo Editor) New Tech students gather at the Turner-Dodge house to show the community the work they’ve done renovating the basement of the building. Projects like this one are a reason that New Tech is an asset to Everett, and a great choice for students. the chance to host a fundraiser for the Turn- understanding about what New Tech really is. getting it until finals come up.

Presentational skills take time, and taking er-Dodge House, which will focus largely on In New Tech, however, students do poetry and poetic devices and will be open to 12-14-year-old children and expecting them to hands-on approaches to regular subjects, so actually be able to present to a large group in a they can remember it much better than they the public.

If these students were not in the New short of amount of time gives pressure to the would have through the one piece of homeTech Program, they most likely would’ve never student and can even harm the student's skills. work and the single test.

At New Tech, it’s taught that building had opportunities such as these to reach out While New Tech has its critics, there are to the public and contribute to locations such up confidence and presenting all the time many benefits to attending. You’ll learn how takes life-long effort, and if you gauge your to present to large audiences in a way that will as these.

Of course, while the New Tech Program child’s ability to speak publicly after only nine have people be engaged and interested in what has a good amount of respect, it also does months, you’re going to be sorely disappointed you want to say. have a large amount of criticism with certain every time.

You’ll also be able to reach out and be In response to the second claim, it is much more involved in the community than people, whose complaints tend to go something along the lines of “My kid went to New entirely false, as New Tech students learn the the regular student, and be able to learn in a Tech and still is shy,” or “New Tech doesn’t exact thing that other kids in Michigan do, just hands-on approach that will help you rememeven learn what they’re supposed to,” or some- in a modified fashion. ber the material and produce test scores on par As most of us are aware, the majority of or superior to the average Everett High School thing to that effect.

However, most of these claims are un- what we learn in school is taught through a student. warranted and tend to be due to a severe mis- textbook, a piece of homework, and then for-

What brings on senior stress Robert Miller Online Editor For most people, their senior year of high school is long awaited.

The thought of leaving Everett and moving on to college or whatever awaits them after school is exciting.

However, that doesn’t stop senior year from being incredibly stressful for students, from maintaining grades in classes, to deciding upon what college to go to, and all the sum of the costs at the end of the year.

Most students, once they go into their senior year, develop some form of senioritis.

It becomes really difficult for them to keep their grades in line for their high school graduation.

For some students, this doesn’t affect

them too badly. However, this can become a real struggle for others, and their grade takes a huge tumble because of it.

This is a constant source of stress because unlike most stress factors senioritis can last until graduation.

Another detail that adds to the stress is choosing which college to go to.

Sometimes you can get quite a few colleges accepting you, and you then have to decide which college you should go to.

Size, affordability, what you want to do as a major, and sometimes parental acceptance and satisfaction can be unsettling.

What can also be stressful is not being accepted into any college, or you getting accepted into a college you don’t especially want to attend.

You might feel caged in until you can

get some hope of transferring over later in life.

Finally, there are plenty of costs waiting to be paid for at the end of the year that many seniors feel pressured to pay for.

One of the biggest costs for most people is prom. At Everett, tickets for prom cost $40 for individuals and $70 dollars for couples. This is even before you add in the cost of tuxes, dresses, and everything else that goes into the big night.

Cap and gown, presentation of roses, open house expenses, and more can all add up to a stressful situation.

In the end, there are quite a few factors that stress seniors out in their last year of high school, and actions could be taken to lessen the load of a few of these.

Although not much can be done about

senioritis, it would be nice if there were a celebration or some way to push seniors to keep everything lined up in terms of their grades.

If there were something like an end of year party that doesn’t have a massive cost tied to it, more and more seniors would stay on top of their grades.

Also, if there were more college fairs and presentations at Everett, it could become easier for high school students to work towards and decide upon a college.

Lastly, for end of year costs, the cap and gown cost is absurdly high for what’s literally a hat and a piece of fabric, and if these were available at a reduced cost, students wouldn’t have to stress at all about saving up $40 for a piece of clothing that has no real value after graduation.

REPORTER Manar Almaliky Maryam Al-Shankool Jennifer Bangura Bella Irving Delecia Lilliard Enrique Limon John Miller Ahmednur Mohamed Joella Ochaba Arianna Orta Kaleb Walker ADVISOR Chad Sanders Mission Statement

The Voice is a monthly publication of Everett High School. It is published the second Wednesday of each month by the sixth hour Newspaper class.

The Voice is distributed free of charge to every student and staff member at Everett. The current issue is always available on the counter of the main office. Subscriptions are also available for $15/year.

The Voice is an award-winning member of the Michigan Interscholastic Press Association.

Letters to the editor are accepted at the discretion of the editorial board.

Forms of speech not protected by the First Amendment will not be published. Letters must be signed by the author, and will be edited for quality. Direct all questions to room 313. We can be contacted via e-mail at myvikingvoice@gmail.com

The Lansing School District is committed to a policy of providing equal opportunities to all qualified people regardless of economic or social status and will not discriminate on the basis of race, color, ethic origin, national origin, creed, religion, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, age, veteran status, or physical or mental ability.

5 • The Voice • May 24, 2018 • myvikingvoice.com

This year, Everett High School is having its first graduating class from New Tech, complete with their own special graduation cord and certification.

Although the New Tech program has its fair share of criticism, it also does have its merits.

New Tech has greatly improved communication skills of students, increased public relations, and has presented students with opportunities to reach out to specific organizations and colleges for seminars.

On Friday, April 20, students in the New Tech Program attended a writer’s conference by the MSU Writing Center and were introduced to many different presentations from multiple college students and professors.

The focus of each presentation was widely varied, from everything to travel experiences to video essays on home life to MSU food truck initiatives.

What was quickly apparent, however, was that these students were making bad use of presentation skills and doing things that would be stamped out in 7th and 8th grade, such as having frequent changes in volume, stumbling over their script and staring at their slideshow the entire time.

This is an interesting example of what New Tech is capable of because it is producing students that are prepared to write at a collegiate level of presentation while only being in 7th or 8th grade.

While New Tech does create college-level presenters, that is far from the only benefit of attending New Tech.

Just recently, students in Sarah Schumacher’s 9th grade art class each submitted a full mural design, complete with an artist’s statement, a model budget, and a full professional resume for the Greater Lansing Fine Arts Council.

Furthermore, Emmanuel Kamm and Jacquelyn Surdenik’s 8th grade US History and English Class has been presented with

Voice The

EV edition:

FEATURES

What high schoolers are ACTUALLY wearing

6 • The Voice • May 24, 2018 • myvikingvoice.com

Jennifer Bangura Copy Editor

spired by his dad. “[My style is inspired by] my father, I like how he dresses,” said Muhammad.

His modern pieces can be found at places like Footlocker and Buckle for affordable prices.

“I spend at least $150 on clothes, it depends,” said Muhammad.

Weather is not a factor that can necessarily stop

For a typical high schooler, clothing is a form of expression. What we wear reflects our mood, views, and personality. Being able to express ourselves nonverbally through our clothes is a form of art throughout teenage culture.

When picking our clothes we have to consider a number of things. To name a few; the cost, how they fit, how comfortable they are, and the durability.

Everett is filled with fashion-forward teens from all over the world who have unique styles and personalities that know how to incorporate all of these factors into their outfits.

Our school is a melting pot of different cultures and each culture has something to contribute to the fashion.

Trends are a huge part of fashion, especially for high schoolers. Trends pull inspiration from many things, but social media is the biggest influencer.

Alim Muhammad Shows like “The Get Down” and “Stranger Things” are filled with him from wearing what he iconic looks that high schoolers love to mimic. wants. He has a wholesome The ‘90s, ‘80s, and ‘70s are making big laid-back personality and his comebacks in today’s fashion. Many of our clothing really channels that. Kylene Potts pieces are fully inspired by these decades.

Name brands are a huge Some things that are trending this spring factor for some teens better known as “hypeare pastel and bright colors, dark denim, sheer beasts.” But, for Muhammad whatever looks and silky materials, gingham print, color block- good looks good, whether it is $1 or $100. ing, tropical print shirts, funky socks, vertical “I don’t consider brands, I just look for stripes, and vintage sneakers. stuff that looks good on me,” said MuhamInspired by Youtuber Lexie Lombard’s mad.

“What High Schoolers Are ACTUALLY Wearing” series, I’ve embarked on a journey to Kylene Potts get a first person perspective on a few students Sophomore Kylene Potts embodies anand their fashion personal. drogyny in her everyday looks.

Some days her outfits are floral and femiAlim Muhammad nine and other days they are bold and masSophomore Alim Muhammad loves com- culine. fortable clothes that are form fitting.

“Sometimes I’m more boyish and then “I choose clothes that suit me and are other times in more girly,” said Potts. comfortable,” said Muhammad.

Getting dressed is something she wholeHe describes his style as conservative, ca- heartedly enjoys. Her clothing choices boost sual and urban. her confidence.

He doesn’t always look forward to get“I just like clothes. I like being dressed up ting dressed every morning, as he’d rather stay because it makes me feel better,” said Potts. in bed. But, when he does he never fails to She loves distinct and daring pieces like impress. bold patterns and prints. When picking her He opts for neutral colors and fresh look- clothes the opinions of her mom and friends ing pieces. are important to her. Other times she puts “I start off taking out shirts. Once I know random stuff together that end up looking what shirt I want to wear I figure out the pants. stylish.

Then I choose a sweater, “ said Muhammad.

“Sometimes I wanna be bold and differFor many teens, their style may be in- ent,” said Potts. “[Once I’ve picked my outfit] spired by their favorite designer or musician. I FaceTime my friends, then we decide… or I But for an individual like Alim, his style is in- ask my mom, if it’s [her outfit]. ‘cute or not?’”

Bright colors like yellow, red, and orange are commonly incorporated into her outfits.

Combining loud prints with duller ones is something that really sets her apart.

“I like to draw attention by wearing bright colors or pairing unexpected things,” said Potts.

Thrifting is the act of shopping at thrift

Many students at our school love to wear brand names. A brand that you are bound to see everywhere your eyes wander is Vans.

Teens love wearing Vans because they are both comfortable and you can pair them with anything. They come in a variety of colors, styles, and designs.

“I like throwback shoes like Vans, Stan Smith’s, and Chucks

from a thrift store. I once bought a outfit for $12, shoes included,” said Robinson.

When it comes to clothes she is daring, adventurous and she is not afraid to take risks.

She’s known for paring pieces you’d never think would match. Her outfits are bold and can be noticed from miles away.

Dallas Robinson stores for vintage and unusual items.

Anatasia Charles “I just get what looks good and I’m It’s become very never afraid to piece together differpopular throughout ent things and see what goes and what teen culture. For Potts, she goes thrifting to because they’re comfortable and they go with find items you won’t find anywhere else at un- a lot of things… I like looking at my Vans,” doesn’t,” said Robinson.

Living in Lansing, where the weather beatable prices. A very popular second-hand said Charles.

Her outfits are very trendy and eye-catch- can’t seem to make up its mind, she has to store is Goodwill. find clothing that will keep her comfortable “They have unique pieces and stuff you ing but can be a bit pricey.

“If I see something cute on Instagram, I throughout the day. can’t find anywhere else. I like vintage cloth“I consider weather depending on what click the link and buy it or I shop at Rue21 or ing,” said Potts.

Some of her clothing items can be found Forever21. Sometimes, I go for brand name I’m wearing, but honestly no especially if I’m clothing. The most I’ve spent was on my Yeezy going to be in a building all day,” said Robat shops inside the mall and out. inson.

“I shop at Younkers, PacSun, Charlotte jacket,” said Charles.

Trends are everywhere and many people The dress code at our school is a big Russe, and sometimes I go thrifting at Gooddisappointment for some students because are following them, but for a unique dresser will. They have cute stuff,” said Potts. they feel like they’re not truly getting the op- like Robinson she opts for clothing that noportunity to be themselves and wear what body else is wearing.

Anatasia Charles “I do not follow trends. I just wear what I Freshman Anatasia Charles channels the makes them feel great. But, for a free spirit like freshness of youth. Her style is very urban Charles the dress code can not stop her from like,” said Robinson.

She loves stores that have nice clothing being stylish. chic and retro.

“Some kids really hate the dress code be- and good prices.

“I like trendy things and I like looking dif“I like to shop at H&M, Windsor, and ferent than other people. I also like wearing cause they can’t wear what they want but the dress code doesn’t really affect me. I wear what PacSun,” said Robinson. older clothes [vintage],” said Charles.

High school is nearly over for Robinson, She possesses a style of her own but she I want and feel best in,” said Charles. so when she’s not wearing an eye-catching outalso pulls inspiration from other sources. She’s fit she sports something more basic.

Dallas Robinson tranquil by nature. So, she turns to her cloth“I’ve been slacking this year [with my Senior Dallas Robinson displays a fun ing to articulate her personality “Seeing other people that have nice style and colorful style. Her clothes are one of a style] since its my senior year and I’m just over school,” said Robinson. really inspires me. I’m a quiet person so I use kind and very affordable.

“I like to thrift, a lot of my clothes are my clothes to express myself,” said Charles.

GET TO KNOW:

FEATURES

Mrs. Murphy, 9th grade

Jekeia Murphy says is an awesome teacher who is determine to make her students successful but she been teaching her whole life

“I remember feeling that … I can’t let her down, she is already going through so much,” said Murphy.

In order to get back on track, she went to summer school. She also had to tell her teacher what was happening in her life, which she had been keeping to herself. She finally realized that it was OK to bring others into her situation.

“Our teacher, our principal and our counselors, they all didn’t know,” said Murphy.

Now, Murphy teaches her students that if they’re going through problems come to her and she will help you in the best way possible.

“I kinda bring this into the classroom today because there’s no telling what each individual student is going threw or what each student is responsible for,” Said Murphy Murphy encourages students to be them self and that this is a space for her students.

“I just want them to know that this is a space for you to take care of you,” said Murphy.

She loves to keep her students safe and she will comfort you.

“Anybody can benefit from [a kind word]; whether you’re going through something or not, everybody needs a laugh. Everybody needs a hug everybody needs a bad joke,” said Murphy.

Murphy was the first person in her family to graduate college, and she has two master’s degrees. Murphy has always been teaching ever since she was little. “[When] I was three, I taught my brother how to button his shirt...we had a lesson plan and everything. Figured it out, knocked it out, he learned how to button his shirt,” said Murphy.

Murphy’s first degree was in English literature. After graduating, she got a research job at MSU as project coordinator for a food and fitness initiative aimed at school aged children.

Murphy loved the work and wishes she could see what her research did to affect those kids.

“I remember being so excited about that part of the research and feeling like there’s more I can do,” said Murphy. She realized that she needed to stop running and become a teacher.

“I’ve been teaching for seven years and I enjoy every little bit of it,” said Murphy.

She said teaching allows her to give back to her community.

“It feels like I’m absolutely changing lives, I’m absolutely contributing to the world that I’m sucking from every single day,” said Murphy.

Murphy said she loves the students at Everett and thinks positively of them.

“Everett students are strong, creative and innovative,” said Murphy.

She said she truly loves seeing her students blossom and build a future for themselves; however, she misses them dearly when it’s time for them to move on.

“I will miss this ninth grade class tremendously. Every year it gets harder to say goodbye to my students at the end of the school year,” said Murphy. “I truly believes the students we have had this year have the potential to be our future leaders. Our students have shown a great deal of creativity, growth, drive and an even greater desire to be the best of the best.”

When he realized he had students who couldn’t see the board, science teacher Robert Clegg found a way to get reading glasses to help. Clegg has provided nearly 75 students with reading glasses this year.

MAKING A DIFFERENCE:

Clegg donates glasses to students in need Briana Vazquez Editor-in-chief Students who don’t have Robert Clegg for a class only know him as a physics and chem teacher. Those who do know him, though, describe him as funny, fair and spontaneous. There are also about 70 students in the building who know Clegg as the man who helped them see better.

Teaching was not what Clegg first had in mind. He had done very well on his ACT, so his dad suggested he go into electrical engineering. Once he got accepted into MSU, he found out they would give him $2,000 if he chose chemistry as his major. So he received a four year degree in chemistry and went to do grad work in Indianapolis.

“I worked part time in a lab while the other [time] I taught,” said Clegg. “I didn’t like the quietness, I enjoyed working with people.”

That’s when he realized teaching was for him. He started teaching at the Lansing School District in 1993, where his grandfather, father and brother have also taught.

Clegg taught at Eastern for many years, and came to Everett to soon after he started a project that has helped many students.

“Over my time of teaching I noticed that students who asked to sit up front [didn’t ask] because they wanted to sit with a friend but because they actually couldn’t see,” said Clegg.

“It killed me.”

At Walgreens, he saw that they sold reading glasses for older people but not distance glasses for kids. He later found out they were available to order on Amazon. He later found ZENNI optical, a website that sells frames and lenses for $6.95. At first the money he used to pay for the glasses came out of his own pocket. When his own parents heard about what he was doing, they joined him.

Clegg said he tries to look for ways to save money when buying the glasses.

“Shipping costs an extra five dollars but it’s for the whole order,” said Clegg. “Once they had 20% off, so I thought it was a good time to buy different strengths.”

Some students who have come to him don’t have insurance for glasses, or they broke their glasses and the insurance wouldn’t cover another pair. Another situation he encountered was parents who were working three jobs and didn’t have the time to take students to get glasses.

“I do not prescribe them. Students come in and pick [glasses] that help them the best to see for the [short term],” said Clegg. “I want them to go and see an eye doctor. Money is not an issue to get an eye exam; the school nurse can help with that.”

This year he has given away nearly 75 pairs of glasses, which means that about 1 in 20 Vikings have worn a pair of glasses from Clegg.

7 • The Voice • May 24, 2018 • myvikingvoice.com

MURPHY

9th grade New Tech English teacher Jekeia Murphy was born in Detroit, raised on the Northwest side. Growing up, she had a plan. That plan got put on hold when a horrible car crash affected her entire family.

That family is pretty big. Murphy has four siblings, two brothers and two sisters.

“I am the second born of five. I have an older brother, a younger brother and two little sisters,” said Murphy.

Murphy is a hardworking mother of three kids of her own, two daughters 8 and 5, and a 4-year-old son.

Murphy attended The High School of Commerce and Business Administration in Detroit.

“I loved high school, especially my freshman year,” said Murphy.

Murphy has been teaching for seven years and said she loves it. But getting to where she is now wasn’t a smooth journey.

When she was in 10th grade, she played basketball, had internships and was very involved.

Then, her mother got into a car accident and everything changed.

Her mom was in the hospital for six months; she had almost 30 surgeries. Her mother fosters some kids, and Murphy felt like she had to take over.

“It’s in my nature to kinda take over everything,” said Murphy. “I kind of felt like I had to step up and fill that gap that my mom would normally fill for my family.”

The loss of income was stressful. Murphy’s dad had to get a second job.

“He counted on my older brother and me to make sure that all the kids got to school on time and that they had a ride home,” said Murphy. “Then we figured out what dinner would be because my dad wasn’t there.”

Murphy had to step up and be the responsible one; her dad counted on her older brother and her to feed the younger siblings and help them with homework.

“I just remembered feeling that the world was on my shoulders and scared all the time,” said Murphy .

When her mother came home from the hospital she needed care, and things got even more intense.

“I want to take care of my mom because she needed help going to the rest room, she needed help getting dressed, she needed help showering she couldn’t get up and just like go get herself something to eat,” said Murphy.

During this time, she and her siblings had to work together to make everything work.

“It definitely forced me to realize the value and the togetherness... and [know] that it’s okay to rely on other people,” said Murphy.

That year, Murphy failed three of her classes. When her report card came, she was afraid to show it to her mom because she knew that she would be disappointed.

ARIANNA ORTA

Manar Almaliky Reporter

FEATURES

This year’s top Valedictorian Manar Almaliky Reporter

8 • The Voice • May 24, 2018 • myvikingvoice.com

After four years of hard work, senior Vivian Ho is graduating as the top student in the class of 2018. She said getting to the top spot meant sleepless nights, hard work and challenging classes.

“I became a valedictorian by taking AP classes and getting good grades,” said Ho. This year there are eight valedictorians: Vivian Ho, Danielle Ellsworth, Jeremiah Benavides, Jennifer Tran, Sadie Austin, Juliana Adkison, Ruth Horta, and Cuong Dang-Le. Toan Tran is salutatorian, and Michael Bellosillo rounds out the Top Ten. Most seniors are excited to leave high school, while others might be sad to leave their friends. Many are nervous about the next step in their lives.

“I’m excited to graduate high school, but I’m a bit anxious about college,” said Ho. Ho will be attending the University of Michigan in the fall.

“It’s going to be a whole new experience.

I’ll definitely be pushed out of my comfort zone, but I definitely think college will help me grow as a person,” said Ho. While Ho is grateful for her time at Everett, there are some things she will not miss.

“The worst part is the food, and the gross bathrooms that never seem to have soap or toilet paper,” said Ho. One thing that Vivian loved the most about school was the friendships she made.

“My favorite part of high school was meeting my friends,” said Ho. For the class of 2018, high school is almost in the rear view mirror. For those just beginning their high school journey, Ho has some advice.

MY “I’ G N I T E E S E T U M O MM “ CA E B GR OS D IEN ED R AD TLY I T F L C R G A I P G E M W I E T S IV ITH TO UATE EXC SHE HA IN A POSIT MY CA BEC ITED E F T I L ” , D O Y M ER AK C LIFE RRY AUS MANN LEWIS. OT OLL AN ON E R A C EG D G O L E - SENIOR QUOTES -TAY “THE WHOLE HIGH SCHOOL EXPERIENCE BECAUSE IT TAUGHT ME PATIENCE; MY ATTITUDE MATURED.” -DEJA

CEDENO-LYONS.

“My advice to 8th graders is to not procrastinate. Also, enjoy the sleep and free time you have freshman year, because after that you’re pulling all-nighters if you take AP,” said Ho. This Year’s Top Ten #2 Danielle Justine Ellsworth #3 Jeremiah Fabian Benavides #4 Jennifer Tran #5 Sadie Pearl Austin #6 Julianna Theresa Markham-Adkison #7 Ruth Horta #8 Cuong Quoc Dang-Le #9 Toan Quoc Tran #10 Michael Bellosillo

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE MEMORY OF HIGH SCHOOL?

“ BL PRO Y M EV THE NI D EN B GH “THE FACT WE OES TH EST T W N O THAT I’M AL N’T UG IG AS L M G H HT PR GETTING G A ET O BE OB -BR OO NAG ALO UR C CA A- OUTTA HERE IA D N ED NG LA USE NN IG TO W SS BECAUSE A MA HT, HA ELL; THESE YEARS TE ” VE A EN ARE LONG. .

IT’S A LONG JOURNEY,.”

-DAQUARIUS TURNER.

, O ESM” AN .

HE

“BEING OUT ALL NIGHT AND NOT BEING HOME WAS CHILL FOR MY SENIOR YEAR.” -KESEAN BENJAMIN.

S LIE U L RA YO P “PE AUSE MISS E BEC T TO D SE GE S AN AG” W AS CL HE “S ACT.” T AY LYA R SP ’ATA .

-N LAM E

Dealing with anxiety attacks in school Bella Irving Reporter For many students in Everett High School, mental illnesses like anxiety and depression is a daily struggle. Being in a stressful and busy environment like school, along with the everyday struggles of a teenager, can make the anxiety rise up to an unbearable point. In those cases a student should feel safe, and know that there’s someone to talk to.

Anxiety is defined as a nervous disorder characterized by a state of excessive uneasiness and apprehension, typically with compulsive behavior or panic attacks. Each person experiences this in different ways such as isolation, hyperventilating, anger, fidgeting or restlessness, hypersensitivity, or

a state of fear. The best thing to do in these situations is to find a safe place where you can calm down, relax, and assess the situation.

“When people are panicked, they are stuck in that moment,” said counselor Ezekiel Moreno.

If you don’t get the help you need in that moment, being stuck in an anxiety attack feels like drowning with anchors tied to your feet. Or, an anxiety attack could feel like everything else has disappeared and you are stuck. Every person is different, and everyone suffering from anxiety has different ways of coping.

The ADAA website (Anxiety and Depression Association of America) says “You may experience anxiety that is persistent, seemingly uncontrollable, and overwhelm-

ing. If it’s an excessive, irrational dread of everyday situations, it can be disabling.

When anxiety interferes with daily activities, you may have an anxiety disorder.”

With pressing issues like an unstable home situation, unaccepting parents, school work, or personal relationships and friendships, having anxiety weighing down on you can make everything intensify and become unbearable. Anxiety is a struggle itself that sometimes gets passed off as simple teenage stress or “hormones” or dramatics.

Ignoring the effects of anxiety can be dangerous.

“It is that individual’s body response, biologically, to a situation they can’t handle,” said Moreno.

Some of you might feel like you are crazy or that these reactions or feeling you

have at times are alien and unusual, but with the right information and tools you could finally find the answers you need. If you suffer from anxiety the symptoms can vary from sweating or nausea to extreme chest pain or the fear that at any moment you

will spiral out of control or even die. It is important to talk to a doctor, trusted adult, or therapist, if you experience any of these feelings. You are not crazy or alien or weird, you are human.

These are some symptoms of anxiety disorder: Palpitations, pounding heart, or accelerated heart rate Sweating, trembling or shaking Sensations of shortness of breath or smothering Feelings of choking Chest pain or discomfort Nausea or abdominal distress Feeling dizzy, unsteady, light-headed, or faint Chills or heat sensations Paresthesia (numbness or tingling sensations) Derealization (feelings of unreality) or depersonalization (being detached from oneself) Fear of losing control or “going crazy,” fear of dying

ENTERTAINMENT

Common ground returns to Lansing with new artists featuring Logic, NF and T-Pain 2018 Common Ground Lineup

Thursday, July 5 Shelby Anne-Marie, Vesperteen, Cale Dodds, The Aces, Judah & the Lion, Hunter Hayes, Kip Moore Friday, July 6 Halsey, Jessie Reyez, Smino, Sasha Sloan, London Richards, Lex J, Sasha Sloan Saturday, July 7 Logic, Maggie Lindemann, Tone-Loc, DJ Kool, J Chase, DJ Dill Pickle, J Chase, Chelsea Cutler, NF Sunday, July 8 Gucci Mane, Kevin Gates, T-Pain, DJ Jazzy Jeff, and Supa Bwe, Prime Suspects, Supa Bwe

Hanami festival arrives for 18th year Katelyn Bailey Social media editor

JAIMIE BOZACK

Summer can get pretty boring when you’re constantly doing the same basic things: going to the mall, sleeping, catching up on shows/movies, and just seeing the same view everyday. Every July, Lansing offers a solution to break the boredom. Common Ground is an annual week-long music festival that takes place in downtown Lansing. It’s a great way to hang out with friends and enjoy some great music in new scenery. Sophomore Joseph Hernandez recommends Common Ground to anyone who likes music and is comfortable in huge crowds.

“You should go if you enjoy music, but the crowd gets really big. It still feels safe though,” said Hernandez.

It starts Thursday, July 5 and ends Sunday, July 8. The festival features music from a wide range of genres including; rap, R&B,

pop, rock, classic, and country. Favorites like Halsey, Logic, BØRNS, Gucci Mane, Kevin Gates, Smino, and many more will be performing. Tickets can be purchased online and vary as prices range from $30 to $200, depending on the kind of ticket you purchase. You can get in for free if you go through the volunteer program which requires a $15 fee and being 16, but you’ll mostly being doing work.

Along with live music, activities like The Color Run, Ultimate Painting, and zip-lining across the Grand River are available.

“When someone wasn’t performing, we walked around and there was a lot of different food trucks,” said Hernandez.

The festival is quite affordable and it may just end up being the highlight of your summer.

“It was loud, energetic and pretty crowded, but it was still fun. I enjoyed being with my family and I loved the music,” said Hernandez.

VOICE ARCHIVE

Jennifer Bangura Copy editor

Pop star Alessia Cara performs at the 2017 Common Ground Musical Festival. This year’s festival offers music ranging from rock to rap to country.

On May 21, there was a small festival for all of the Japanese classes in the school that will celebrate many different things. There were activities such as creating headbands, origami, and rice balls. “Hanami” is a Japanese tradition of welcoming spring. It’s is also known as the “cherry blossom festival”.

“For Hanami, [we have] a lot of different stations and activities to do for Japanese students,” said Japanese year one teacher Christine Kelly.

For part of the time, students did karaoke and there was be a photo booth.

Some students have been attending the event more than once because they take the class every year.

“I was really excited about my third time going to Hanami,” said year three student Al-

lison Zenker.

The party was created for a celebration for the students in Japanese that made it through the year. The party took place in two different locations, the special dining room and the small auditorium.

Some students were most excited to be able to have the chance to play pop star.

“I was most excited for the karaoke,” said year one student Alvin Phan. “I wanted to sing with all of my friends.”

Other students were ready to experience new flavors.

“I was most excited about the food,” said year one student Kimberlee Middleton. “It was authentic Japanese food.”

There were many students attending the party and many activities to have fun with.

The party has happened almost every year for about 18 years now.

Don’t let summer pass you by,

NOEL ABEJO, FREEIMAGES.COM

Katelyn Bailey Social media editor

Students at Everett High School enjoy going out to the zoo and having fun camping. Some students head for locations out of state, like the beaches of Florida.

Summer is just right around the corner, and students are going to be off school for three months. Some students are working at jobs, whereas some students are going to be sleeping in and having nothing to do.

Some students wish to go out of state to have fun for the summer.

“I want to go to Florida,” said sophomore Bernardo Ruiz. “It’s somewhere new and it seems like it would be really nice there.”

If money were no object, some students would like to travel out of the country to learn more about their heritage.

“I want to see Ireland,” said freshman Lazareus Rush. “I want to learn my heritage and see if I have family there.”

Some students would just want to leave the country for fun.

“I want to go to Japan,” said sophomore Brooklyn Humenay. “It seems awesome there.”

Some students would choose to go see what their family is up to.

“I would go to Hawaii,” said freshman Kaleigh Baker. “I want to visit my family there.”

There are many places to visit in the world, but you don’t have to fly around the globe to have a fun summer. Lansing has way more to offer than you may think.

You don’t have to leave the state, or even Lansing, to find water and cool off. Hawk Island is right down the road. They have a park, a beach, rowboat and pedal boat rentals, along with picnic areas and a small splash pad with a concession stand. You can also bring your

dog to the park, as long as they are on a 6 foot or less leash.

Another great place to visit over the summer is the Potter Park Zoo. When you go there, you can do things such as see all of the animals, get food, and go on pony rides. This is a great place to go with your friends and family and have some fun or even buy some gifts.

During the summer, you can also visit MSU as part of a summer camp. In June, they have basketball camps for boys and girls. If you want to go during the day, you pay $350.

If you want to stay overnight, you pay $450.

It’s expensive, but it’s worth it. The boy’s camp is residential only, and that is $450.

Even people who think they don’t have the time or money to have fun this summer can make it out to some of Lansing’s fun spots.

9 • The Voice • May 24, 2018 • myvikingvoice.com

visit a beach, zoo or camp

ENTERTAINMENT

Get out of town:

Budget friendly places to travel for summer It’s the season finale for seniors, and their high school career is coming to an end. Many will be heading to university in the fall, while some will be taking a gap year. A year is a long time for just staying at home and catching up on sleep, so here are eight budget-friendly travel destinations for those who would like to see a bit of the world before they head back to school, or off to work.

Kasol, India Kasol is home to one of the most beautiful destinations in the world, Parvati Valley.

The valley is a natural stress reliever, as its bursting with nature’s most charming colors.

Kasol holds many restaurants filled with all kinds of food. Some popular dishes are patande (hot cake), Nutella pancakes, shakshuka (poached eggs in spicy red sauce), lafa (rolled flatbread filled with veggies and or meat), and hummus.

Hikes and treks are ideal when visiting because they’re a great way to relieve all the stress you’ve garnered up from the school year and just take time enjoy nature. Some alluring trek spots include, Star pass, Yanker Pass, Pin Parvati Pass, Kheerganga, and Chalal.

The locals are known to be hospitable and have no trouble showing visitors around.

Kasol is definitely a must if you are seeking a more tranquil destination.

The best times to visit are May-October, as tourism shifts towards the south during colder months. Flights start at $1,000.

10 • The Voice • May 24, 2018 • myvikingvoice.com

Barcelona, Spain Barcelona is known as one of Europe’s most charming cities.

There are countless things to do in Barcelona such as: swim in the Mediterranean sea, fall in

love with alluring paintings at the Picasso Museum, eat fresh seafood at the Mercado de la Boqueria, see a fairytale sight at the Magic Fountain, experience extraordinary architecture, and go on a rooftop tour of the Santa Maria del Mar. In the summertime enjoy a wonderful open-air cinema experience for free at the Cinema Lliure a la Platja, which is located on the beach.

Nightlife in Barcelona is known to be spectacular. There is a large variety of clubs, pubs, restaurants, and bars. The city is a matrix of colors. For a more cultural feel there are night tours of the city’s history and many Flamenco venues open.

According to moneywehave.com, the average travel budget for Barcelona is $1,776.

That’s airfare, accommodations, transportation, food and drinks, attractions, and random spending included. Barcelona is not only incredibly beautiful, but affordable as well.

Marrakesh, Morocco Marrakesh has a marvelous blend of culture, food, history, and architecture.

Being in Marrakesh is like living in a painting. There are enchanting gardens, produce and unique artwork for sale in the medinas, camel rides through the Sahara under a starry sky, and a serene beach perfect for relaxation in Essaouira.

Because the area is so diverse, there are endless things to see. Some popular sights are the Erg Chebbi (sand dunes in the Sahara that showcase bold colors when the sun rises and sets), Todra Gorge (extraordinary limestone river canyons), Majorelle Garden, Bahia Palace, Jemaa el-Fnaa (main square filled with shops, restaurants, and plenty more), Palm grove, Dar Si Said (museum of Moroccan arts), the Saadian Tombs and Gueliz ( a modern city in Marrakesh that has places like H&M, Zara,and even McDonald’s). Marrakesh is known to be very safe and welcoming.

According to budgetyourtrip.com the average daily price per person for accommodation is $22, food is $12, and transportation is $5.

F l i g h t s start at $1,000.

Dakar, Senegal Dakar is definitely the place to visit if you are looking to go somewhere that is filled to the brim with culture and history. Dakar is known as one of the most liberal and cosmopolitan cities of Africa. Its very rich in antiquity as it was a hub for the 18th and 19th century slaves. Dakar is a vibrant and one of a kind city. Dakar offers many restaurants serving nation and international food and drinks. A common favorite is Le Djembé. This restaurant offers an authentic taste of Senegal. Dishes like poulet yassa (grilled chicken in onion and lemon sauce), thíeboudienne (fish and rice), bouye (vanilla and baobab fruit drink), and bissap juice (hibiscus). Music is the heartbeat of Dakar. There are local bands playing traditional music like mbalax and sabar everywhere you go. Youssou N’Dour is a well known musician in Senegal and owns a nightclub called Thiossane where he performs every Saturday, entry is $5-10. The festivities in this city are endless as it is very energetic. The African Renaissance monument, Henriette-Bathily Women’s Museum, Magic Land, The Grand Mosque of Dakar, Building La Rotonde, and the Park Hann are all places that are inexpensive and offer lots to witness. For a more historical feel, Gorée Island is a pilgrimage destination for Africans from the diaspora. It was a stopover where departing African slaves were shipped away. The island is more like a memorial and exudes a somber tone.

Dakar will serve you with and upbeat and over all beautiful experience. Flights start at $1,000.

San Miguel de Allende, México San Miguel de Allende is an artist’s heaven. The streets are streaming with flowers and the most passionate colors. The architecture is Spanish influenced and is simply divine. The following places exemplify ethereal paradise; Sanctuary of Atotonilco (fortress like church), Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel (neo-gothic 17th century church), Charco del Ingenio (botanical garden), Juárez Park, Cañada de Virgen (fascinating archaeological site), and the Centro Cultural Ignacio Ramírez el Nigromante (art exhibit). There are many markets here that sell local food,

remarkable souvenirs, and artisan artwork.

Markets like Mercado de Artesanías, Mercado San Juan Dios, Tianguis de los Martes, and Tianguis Orgánico are well-known. This city is the epitome of art with its romantic aesthetic and spirited atmosphere. Activities like zip lining, ancestral healing treatments, rooftop dining, bull fight viewing, and so much more are available here. Nightlife is known to look like an exact replica of a fairytale scene.

San Miguel de Allende is perfect for picture taking as the city is visually elegant and sunrises and sunsets are sensational. Flights start $800.

Port-Salut, Haiti Port-Salut is surrounded by gorgeous white sand beaches and Caribbean scenery.

This town is perfect for laying back and clearing your mind. Beaches favored by Haitians are Plage Macaya and Kalico. Fresh seafood and tropical drinks are served at the beach bars. Grotte Marie Jeanne is an enormous cave just north of Port Salut. There are three areas of the cave available for touring, one of which is completely dark. This town is not very popular, so its a perfect match for someone who’s looking for a getaway far from people.

Hotels like Auberge de Rayon, Hôtel du Village, and Dan’s Creek Hotel are beautiful and always available at cheap prices. The cuisine is a mixture of West African and French influence with a spicy touch of the Caribbean.

The locals are known to be friendly and accepting. Cascade Touyac is a charming cascading waterfall that flows and creates a natural freshwater pool. Taking a dip in the water is encouraged. There’s not many man-made sights to see, but the natural wonder is endless.

Flights start $700.

Houston, Texas Houston is not only cheap, but it can be reached by car, bus or plane. This city is constantly buzzing, swarming with things to do and it holds a record of never serving dull moments. The Space Center Houston is extremely popular here as it offers a close-up look at the U.S. Space Program. Their new Above

and Beyond exhibit, open April 21, proposes aerospace exploration through stimulation, immerse videos, and interactive galleries. Museums can be found on every corner including; Houston Museum of Natural Science, Museum of Fine Arts, Holocaust Museum, The Health Museum, and Art Car Museum. All of which are engaging and a great experience.

Beaches and natural sights are rampant. The Japanese Garden possesses lush landscaping and a tranquil atmosphere making it a perfect picnic spot. The Downtown Aquarium, Houston Zoo, and the Armand Bayou Nature Center present numerous different animal species for viewing, guided canoe rides, and interactive activities. Shopping here is a must as the malls are huge and have a variety of high end shops.

The Galleria is the most popular as it holds fine dining, luxury shops, and even a ice skating rink. Flights start at $100.

Las Vegas, Nevada Las Vegas is widely known as Sin City, but few know about its insanely cheap tendencies. A visit to the Ethel M Chocolate Factory and Botanical Cactus Garden, the Fountains of Bellagio, and the Bellagio conservatory are completely free. The chocolate factory is a spectacular sight and it brings pure nostalgia to all Willy Wonka fans. At the Fountains of Bellagio 1,214 jets stream water 460 feet into the air as they move along to music. Las Vegas is crawling with extravagant landmarks and casinos, and the nightlife is completely jaw-dropping. You can see the Las Vegas Eiffel Tower ($16), The Neon Museum ($19), zip line at the Slotzilla Zip Line ($20), and dine downtown for under $20. A trip to The Strip is an absolute priority when visiting as its home to some of the most phenomenal views. There are endless theaters, clubs, festivals, amusement parks, and exclusive tours to attend to while here. A trip to Vegas will certainly be one to remember. Flights start at $200.

ILLUSTRATION: JOSIAH THAO

Jennifer Bangura Copy Editor

SPORTS

11 • The Voice • May 24, 2018 • myvikingvoice.com

The FIFA World Cup is the most popular sporting event in the world, it is held every four years since the inaugural tournament in 1930.

This tournament involves 32 national teams competing for the title of the World Cup trophy.

The FIFA World Cup is the world’s most widely viewed sporting event; an estimated 715.1 million people watched the final match of the 2006 FIFA World Cup held in Germany.

This year’s cup will be held in Russia on June 14, 2018 - July 15, 2018.

Most World Cup fans have a team and a player they’re excited to see.

“My favorite player is Messi because he is the best player of all time,” said senior Moubarak Adam.

The World Cup comes around every four years. The wait makes fans feverish for competition.

“I’m so excited about it; it’s a one time thing every four years so I wouldn’t miss it,” said Sophomore Jacob Gross.

For some fans, four years is too long

between showdowns.

“I’m so excited about the World Cup because I was waiting for it for four years,” said Senior Alaa Kimo.

Kimo has been waiting to see the best team take home the Cup. “France is gonna win 2018 world,” said Kimo.

“They have young and talented players.”

The FIFA World Cup provides opportunities to attract visitors to host cities and for local residents to enjoy event-related celebrations.

“It’s a good thing for national teams; FIFA brings all the people together,” said Gross.

You can watch this event on ESPN, Fox Sports, Facebook Live, or you can stream it online.

O

Ahmednur Mohamed Reporter

HA

ARCHIVE PHOTO

Everett has many options when it comes to sports. One sport that Everett used to have that has gone away is golf. As recently as 2011, girls would compete in the fall and the boys in spring. But it stopped because not a lot of students wanted to play it, or expressed any interest in it.

There is still a way for Everett students to play golf for Lansing schools, though. The name of the team is called Lansing United Golf, and it’s a combination of the three Eighth grade Science teacher and golf coach Scott Goodman and a former player stand Lansing schools (a “co-op”) at the tee. Goodman shows player how to lightly tap the golf ball. with Sexton’s Christopher schools for our Lansing Team,” said Hender“At least five were tied with me [in the Henderson as the coach.

They compete every week, and two Everett son. “We really want more participation and last holes at Regionals] and it would have students are on the team. Their home golf think that positive [publicity] will help pro- been match play,” said Her. But Her pulled course is Royal Scot, according to Hender- mote the sport of golfing in Lansing,” said ahead at the last minute, and won the match Henderson. outright to take him to the Finals. son.

One Viking that plays on the Lansing Male students who are interested in golf“We have lots of opportunities for our Lansing School students to learn and expe- Unified Golf team is Senior Vilai Her. “[I] ing for Lansing next year can sign up durrience golf in Lansing,” said Henderson. like competing with other people and would ing the first three weeks of practice at Royal Golfing is a sport that teaches hand-eye co- do it again,” said Her. Last year, he made it to Golf Course. You have to provide your own transportation and a physical, then everyordination, it teaches focus, and it is a sport the state championship.

Her started golfing when he was little. thing else is available to you. No fees, you that you can play by yourself and don’t nec“My dad helped me. He told me I was a don’t need any equipment, and no experiessarily have to worry about relying on your natural at it,” said Her. ence is required. Anyone interested in more team mates.

He won MHSAA Regionals, but strug- information can call Coach Henderson at Eastern did golf until 2015 until it, like gled with more obstacles in the finals and (517) 755-4613.

Everett, stopped due to low interest.

“That is why we have combined all three lost.

Fan’s thoughts on 2018 FIFA World Cup

HT

Joella Ochaba Reporter

Caption to the left: Miss Teen Universal World poses with a student from Beekman.

SIA

Everett high school golf: forgotten, but not gone

Caption to the top: Students from Beekman celebrate their victories at 2017 Special Olympics.

JO

Everyone knows The Olympics, where the greatest athletes from around the world meet in one place and compete to earn medals for themselves and their country. Not everyone knows about Special Olympics, another sporting event held every spring all over the country. Special Olympics is different from The Olympics in many ways, but has some similarities. Both bring together athletes from different places to compete, and both are meant to promote an idea of unity and brotherhood. Participants who go to Special Olympics do their best against others from different schools in many different sports.

From May 31 - June 2, 2,600 special ed athletes will compete at CMU in front of a crowd of around 3,400 coaches, volunteers, chaperones, and family members.

Special Olympics is special because it allows people with disabilities to win competitions and medals for themselves and their

school.

“It gives all students access to sport related events and provides skill building,” said Navigator teacher Judy Kramer.

Winning a medal is fun, but another thing people enjoy about Special Olympics is the friendships that are made. “[I believe the Special Olympics are important] so that [people] can socialize and meet new friends,” said special ed teacher Amy Emens.

Many people who go to Special Olympics say they love it when their students participate.

“I think it’s a great idea and it gives people with disabilities opportunities,” said special ed teacher Renee Eis. Students agree that Special Olympics is a fun time for everyone involved. “[I think] the Special Olympics are a series of fun activities that get your body going,” said Senior Michael Hill. “From basketball to bowling to track-and-field, we all learn to play, respect, and have fun!”

HOLLY TRIESTRAM

John Miller Reporter

HOLLY TRIESTRAM

Vikings compete in Special Olympic games

BEHIND EVERY SMILE

Attitudes are changing, but coming out still can be scary

12 • The Voice • May 24, 2018 • myvikingvoice.com

“My whole body was full of nervousness seconds before I finally came out.”

Junior David Rodriguez was scared to tell his family. He was scared of what people would think and what they might say. David knew he was gay at the age of 12 but didn’t tell anyone.

Opinions about gay lifestyles and rights have changed dramatically in the past decade, but coming out is still a hard subject to talk about. But Rodriguez, a Spanish foreign exchange student, is now comfortable talking about his journey.

David came out about last year, and he was scared at first.

“I always knew that I was gay, but I did debate about it,” said Rodriguez. “Because in my family my brother and sister came out like two years apart, and I thought I had to be the ‘straight’ one.”

The only person that knew that he was gay was his sister, and she supported him.

“I thought that I was bi for awhile; I didn’t care if I dated a girl or a boy,” said Rodriguez. “Then I met a guy and things changed.”

He was worried about how his family would react, but it turned out that they had known for some time.

“Parents usually can tell if their child is different from the beginning,” said Rodriguez.

“For me they knew that I was, but they wanted

me to tell them and to finally come out.”

Now, David talks about it easily, but the decision to come out was anything but easy.

“I was afraid to tell my friends and family because of what they might say or do and what might strangers might think,” said Rodriguez.

Rodriguez said he was concerned about telling people in the U.S. that he was gay.

“It was easy coming out in Spain because the people there are usually more open-minded with gay rights,” said Rodriguez. “USA was weird at first because I felt [people] would care more; I didn’t really tell anyone that I was gay because they might have something to say. But then I [met] friends that definitely support me and accept me how I am.”

While some like David may be worried about what people will think if they come out, the reality is that people’s attitudes about the gay community have changed dramatically in the past few years. According to a 2017 Pew Research Center report, 62% of Americans now support same sex marriage, up from 35% in 2001.

That doesn’t mean that everything will be perfect. There are still hate crimes and bullying that occurs against the LGBT community. For anyone who is dealing with thoughts of suicide or depression, The Trevor Project (thetrevorproject.org) offers confidential help to LGBT teens.

David has some encouraging words for people who haven’t come out yet.

“Even though sometimes it seems scary, when [a person] comes out they will feel truly themselves, and [anyone] who really loves them will accept them,” said Rodriguez.

by Emylie Gillette

BEHIND EVERY SMILE

‘It was most definitely hard.

Who wouldn’t want to be with his parents?’

by Charnelle Smith

other family members will never be the same as living with your parents because it won’t have the same loving feeling or just feeling the presence of a loving mother or father.

The way Martinez grieved the separation from his parents was through music and keeping calm.

“I just listened to a lot of music,” said Martinez.

As possible changes to immigration laws are discussed online and on TV, Martinez thinks of the children who may be forced to go through a move like he did.

“I feel like they should change [the way they’re going] because they’re are making families fall apart,” said Martinez.

The DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) is a program that Obama created in 2012 to allow thousands of children to the U.S. legally to remain in the United States.

Mostly, this applies to children who came to the country as babies or very young children and have no memory of their home country. President Trump has spoken of wanting to change the current laws so DACA children could be deported the same as other immigrants. Martinez wouldn’t have to worry about having to leave if the laws change. “[I’m not worried] because I was born here,” said Martinez.

While he plans to go to college next year and have an American degree, Martinez said that someday he might return to Mexico and get in touch with his roots.

“There is a lot more interesting stuff in Mexico; you get to go outside more and [there’s] more nature,” said Martinez.

13 • The Voice • May 24, 2018 • myvikingvoice.com

Senior Luis Martinez hasn’t lived with his parents for eight years. In 2010, Martinez’s father was deported. The family followed his father back to Mexico, but Luis had a hard time adjusting to school in Mexico and returned to Lansing and moved in with family. Being separated from your family can be heartbreaking, especially when it’s for a long period of time. “[It was] most definitely hard; who wouldn’t want to [be with his parents]?” said Martinez.

In the 2016-2017 school year, there were 317 students at Everett that were not native English speakers. Some have family in different countries, or live with a host family or local relatives.

“I was separated back in 2010; I stay with my uncles,” said Martinez.

Every year, thousands of children are separated from their parents due to deportation. In 2013, about 39,410 parents were deported who had one or more children born in the U.S. Sometimes immigrants get deported because they have committed crimes in the U.S., or breached the conditions on their visa. Sometimes, they are in the country illegally.

Martinez only gets to see his parents a once a year. Because of school or economic reasons, he usually visits them in the summer.

“Vacation-wise, it is tricky,” said Martinez.

Martinez calls his parents once a week after school. Contacting family can be tricky because of having two different time zones and trying to call at an appropriate time. It’s not easy moving from one house to another, adjusting to different living conditions and different people.

“It was hard going from one house to a different one,” said Martinez. Not living with your parents can really hurt you emotionally because you could fall into a depression and have doubts about your parents. Living with a host family or even

BEHIND EVERY SMILE

Growing up fatherless:

14 • The Voice • May 24, 2018 • myvikingvoice.com

For years, mom wouldn’t tell me why dad had to leave When I was just four years old my father made a stupid decision, and was taken away from me for 12 years.

My mom told me that he just “went away,” but I didn’t know what that meant. I used to always ask my mom when he was going to come home; I would wait and wait until he came back, but he never did.

When I was old enough to understand, my mom sat me and my brother down and told us the worst news you could have had as a child: she told me that my dad went to jail and wouldn’t be in my life for a while.

Getting this news broke my heart, and had a really big impact on my childhood.

He had missed my entire childhood and all the special moments I would have wanted him to see. He missed my first day of school, every holiday, and all of those birthdays. He never got to see his own daughter or son grow up.

This affected me the most in elementary school. Every time Father’s Day came around, we would make cards for our dads. I would just sit there with a blank piece of paper and stare at it, then when I would get home I would just cry, cry, and cry.

When I was 12 I started having anxiety attacks just thinking or talking about him. It got so bad my mom would ask me if I wanted to talk to a therapist about it, but I never did.

I also didn’t realize that when he went away his family would as well. His family didn’t have a good relationship with my mom after my dad went to prison; they would argue all the time. Because of this, my grandparents eventually stopped all contact with us.

It felt like my dad abandoned me, just like his family did.

It wasn’t easy for me knowing my parent would be in prison for my whole childhood. It isn’t an easy thing to go through, for anyone.

According to a report, 1 in 14 U.S. children have had a parent that has been imprisoned; that is nearly 7% of children that have to cope without having a parent.

There are some strategies to help deal with losing a parent in this way. The first thing you can do is try to find some support from family and friends, or if needed talk to someone professional about it. You can also try to distract yourself and stay busy to keep your mind off of it. Talking to someone had really helped me get through it all, especially talking with my brother about it because he could relate in the same way.

It helps the child more if there is some type of communication or visitation between the child and parent, but that isn’t always available to all families. My brother and I were lucky enough to get a phone call from my dad for 10 minutes every Sunday, about five minutes each.

It wasn’t just hard when my dad was away, it was also hard when I found out that he was released. Even though I knew he was released I still couldn’t see him for an additional two years. When I was 15 I had the chance to see him for the first time in 12 years. I was still angry and mad at him for making the mistake he made, and it took me a while to forgive him, but I am happy that I am able to now have a relationship with my dad. It wasn’t easy, and it might have take some time, but I knew that forgiving him would be the best decision. Even when I felt like I would never forgive him, I still kept some hope that one day that would change.

by Katrina Schacht

BEHIND EVERY SMILE

Left behind to figure it out:

Waking up the next day after getting my gallbladder removed, hearing my mom get that phone call, being told that he died.

That’s how my freshman year started, my friends were having fun at the homecoming football game while I was stuck on the couch in misery, waiting for my mom to get home from the hospital with news.

She didn’t come home for a whole week, my sister and I went up to the hospital with my aunt. When we went to the room, my stepdad was laying there silent, not moving, not awake. I stayed back from going up to him because I was mad at things he did. I didn’t care about what was going on, because I felt like my whole life was a lie.

I wasn’t mourning for myself, I was mourning for my mom; she lost her husband.

When I was younger, I went everywhere with him. No matter where he was going, I’d always be in the passenger seat.

During freshman year there were many suicide seminars going on. A junior student had killed herself. As a freshman, I didn’t know why they were happening. I never went to them because how I was feeling about the whole thing was already out there, I never held in anything.

I didn’t want to be reminded of my step dad at all; I hated when people talk about him because he really wasn’t who he said he was.

My grades went down; I had to help my mom cope with the everything going on.

Finally, I started to manage. I started doing things that I liked, such as practicing dances of my favorite singers at the time. I hung out with my friends, and I started getting out of the house.

Suicide affects families, but it can also affect a community. Everett high school student Dalia Carpenter committed suicide her junior year when I was attending Everett for the first time.

“She loved volleyball. She loved being involved in what her younger siblings were doing. She loved hanging out with her friends and going to football games, but she was very passionate about volleyball,” said Junior Alison Barner.

Suicide never makes sense. It doesn’t seem real. Carpenter’s death affected her friends, her family, Everett staff, and even students who didn’t know her. The world seems upside down, as if normal rules don’t apply. Dealing with the emotions related to suicide can take time, and also may take outside help.

Some people see a therapist, someone who is trained to help them process what they’re feeling. For others, talking about it with loved ones is also a solution.

Another source students can go to are school counselors. At Everett, there are many people who can assist students dealing with thoughts of suicide. Even talking to a teacher is a good start; they can refer you to someone who can help.

“Someone that you trust should always lead you to another person you can trust,” said Project Peace Mental Health Specialist, Christine Zouaoui. School counselors can give students a short suicide assessment that can help them decide how to best help.

Anyone who doesn’t want to talk to a person at Everett can call the suicide hot line at 1-800-273-8255, or use their website: suicidepreventionlifeline.org.

“We have teen help cards with all the numbers for students who are feeling suicidal,” said Zouaoui.

by Madyson Gillette

15 • The Voice • May 24, 2018 • myvikingvoice.com

Dealing with emotions after suicide can be difficult

BEHIND EVERY SMILE

When mom and dad split up Kids of divorce grow up faster, deal with changes

16 • The Voice • May 24, 2018 • myvikingvoice.com

Divorce is defined as being “the law or an instance of legally dissolving.” In the United States, 50% of people that get married end up getting a divorce. According to the Centers for Disease Control, the average American marriage lasts eight years before one person demands a divorce. It typically takes around three years for one of the people to remarry. Divorce impacts everyone it happens around.

Younger couples are more likely to divorce than older couples; however, if there are children involved the divorce rate increases. Divorce affects everyone that it involves, no matter what age or where one is in life. Multiple students and staff here at Everett have endured divorce in some way.

Seniors Delecia Lilliard and Alyssa Wagner-Sears were impacted by divorce around the same age.

“There was a separation between my parents in like 2008 and after that, my dad was out of our lives for four years,” said Lilliard.

For Wagner-Sears, the divorce happened in 2007. It was hard to keep up with school at this time.

“Harder to catch up with work because of going back and forth from my dad’s house to my mom’s,” said Wagner-Sears.

Luckily, according to teach-nology.com, students are able to cope and eventually adjust to a divorce within a reasonable time period.

For Lilliard, the divorce meant switching schools.

“We jumped from house to house so it was a mental and physical drain on my mom and then us having to move schools was very stressful…meeting new friends and things like that,” said Lilliard.

Teachers and counselors are here to help; they are able to give students advice and be there for them if they don’t have anyone else to turn to.

A divorce can impact someone in many ways, especially as a child.

“It’s hard to get my parents to work together and it’s been hard for me to hang out with my friends… I had to grow up fast and I didn’t really have a childhood,” said Alyssa Wagner-Sears.

Even though they were young when it happened, they still have some ideas about on why their parents split.

“Probably because of the level of unhappiness; there was physical abuse,” said Lilliard.

“There was no unity since they married young… I noticed this early on,” said Alyssa Wagner-Sears.

The divorce taught each student lessons that will stick with them.

“It did scare me about marriage and it showed me that even if you love someone for so long things can happen; it’s all about communication,” said Lilliard.

Some of the lessons are ones that they probably wouldn’t have thought of if it weren’t for the divorce.

“I realized how important it is to pull your own weight in a relationship,” said Wagner-Sears.

The event was something that will always stick with the students.

“Mentally it felt like my parents gave up on not only themselves or the marriage, but their kids,” said Lilliard. “They didn’t realize the impact it had on their kids until they got older and then it was a mental game of our parents understanding where we were coming from. It was like ‘“it’s your dad’s fault’” or ‘“it’s your mom’s fault’” and nothing got resolved.”

Although divorce is a hard time for students there are many resources at school, from the security guards, to the teachers, to other students who have endured the same or similar situations. A student going through divorce does not have to be alone.

In America, there is one divorce approximately every 36 seconds. That’s nearly 2,400 divorces per day, 16,800 divorces per week and 876,000 divorces a year. About 50% of all marriages end in divorce.

by Asia Ruiz

BEHIND EVERY SMILE

‘Why can’t she hear like the people around her?’

A medical mistake left Duaa Noori deaf. Then, they left their home.

an immigrant can be hard enough. Having to deal with a new country while learning a new sign language was even tougher for senior Duaa Noori, seen here signing the ASL word for “friend.”

by Briana Orta Vazquez

For Duaa, the differences were even greater. She couldn’t communicate with people at all until she learned American Sign Language. Luckily, she learned quickly.

“There were some similarities [with the Arabic Sign Language and ASL] so I felt like I picked it up quickly, but English was different,” said Duaa. “I remember learning English in Jordan, but I found it a little challenging, it wasn’t that bad as far as reading and writing.

When they first came here, Duaa always refused to go out because of the way people looked at her.

“It was awkward and I was super shy, I was stuck to my mom like glue. I wasn’t outgoing in that way,” said Duaa. “ People would be kinda sweet, wave and look at me but I couldn’t even make eye contact.”

Going to school here was a whole different thing, too. Now she was in a mainstream school instead of a deaf school. Given a choice, though, she said she would have still have chosen a school like Everett.

“Me and my friends, we’ll sign to each other and I feel shy about it because I notice people staring at us when we’re trying to communicate,” said Duaa. “Or other times it’s not necessarily rude but they’ll kinda look at us and they seem like their really paying attention, as if they want to learn sign language. They kind of appear fascinated by us, so it feels like I’m a little bit on display.”

Duaa’s prior teacher Amy Robinson taught her to accept her disability and how to be confident. But even then Duaa feels like an outcast and separate from the group.

“If people tried signing to communicate with me, they could even gesture a little bit at me, even smile and say hi. There’s a simple way to say hi, it’s a universal gesture; by waving your hand it’s making that effort I think that makes me feel more included,” said Duaa.

Sometimes school has been hard since she has to pay real close attention to both her teacher and interpreter at the same time. Duaa finds it helpful when teachers use pictures or examples of things and not just the interpreter spelling out the word so she can get a deeper understanding.

Even though the family moved for a better education, the girls would have had similar opportunities in Jordan. Duaa, though, has more options. After learning Duaa was hearing impaired, her doctors didn’t do much but avoid the blame. Here, Duaa was able to try hearing aids (which she was not fascinated by).

For Dalia, moving changed her in a different way.

“Nothing changes the way you view your own life experience like seeing the way other people live,” said Dalia. “I now have a new sense of wonder and empathy for other cultures.

Soak in the language, the lifestyle and what people in foreign countries value. I realized how different [the world is] and it undoubtedly made me evaluate my own values.”

Over the years, the girls’ relationship has grown.

“Now we’re friendlier with each other, I feel like we’re super close,” said Duaa. “She’ll fingerspell things and I’ll correct her and tell her this is the way it’s spelled and my sister seems to accept that feedback and makes changes and I feel like we’re communicating a little bit more.

We’re more connected.”

But even then, Duaa still thinks about how her life could have been different.

“It makes me sad a little bit I can see [my family] trying but it’s still a struggle,” said Duaa. “I can communicate very well with an interpreter but it’s still a struggle with my family.”

Her mother will never forget the doctor that changed her daughter’s life.

“It’s hard because she still asks why she can’t hear and speak like all the people around her do, and sometimes it’s heart breaking,” said Dalia.

17 • The Voice • May 24, 2018 • myvikingvoice.com

Coming to the U.S. as

17 years ago in Jordan, a pair of twins were born early.

One was released after a week, while the other stayed in the hospital for a month. During that month, the baby girl had a lack of oxygen. Because of the lack of oxygen, she then had to receive a vaccination. The doctors administered the shot in her ear and in doing so hit a nerve, leaving her deaf. No one realized what had happened, but as she grew, Duaa Noori’s parents noticed she still didn’t have the ability to talk or hear like her twin sister Dalia. A medical mistake had taken place, and doctors confirmed she was hearing impaired.

“All of my memories as a child are from going to the hospital with my mom and Duaa,” said Dalia. “Up until recently I never fully understood how nailbiting the situation was back then.”

Growing up, the two girls had to attend different schools. Duaa went to a deaf school, one of the best in Jordan.

“Duaa was okay with having to attend a different school, it was easy [for her to learn sign] because all the people she communicated were kids just like her,” said Dalia.

With the help of Duaa’s teacher, her mom learned Arabic sign. Then, their mom taught the rest of the family.

For Dalia, learning sign was easy and fun, it gave her a skill that has given her a love for language and openness towards culture.

“Whenever I wanted to say something in public but didn’t want people to hear, I would sign,” said Dalia.

Dalia still remembers Jordan as loud, beautiful, and diverse with beautiful cities built into the mountains. Duaa said the beating sun was too much, but she enjoyed the cool evening air.

“I remember playing outside with my sister,” said Duaa. “We would run together and play hide-and-seek, but I was always super tired and didn’t always want to do the things she wanted to do.”

Dalia describes her sister as sensitive, emotional and cheerful. Duaa says Dalia is a quiet person; they both are.

“I think we were close [as kids]. We played together, went shopping together, wanted to buy the same clothes, and do the same hairstyle,” said Dalia.

On July 7, 2013 the family came to the U.S. as immigrants, the family moving to get a better education for their children. The move was hard on the whole family. For the first year, they struggled to learn English and their mom felt the pressure of having to learn American Sign Language. It felt weird and lonely to them since there weren’t any Arabs to communicate with and it was hard to communicate with Americans.

“It was a cultural shock too, we didn’t know what to do; to try to fit in or stay the way we are,” said Dalia.

Living here was already a big change. A home in Jordan turned into a house in Lansing, and all they had was themselves.

“Culture matters. Place matters, it’s hard,” said Dalia. “I didn’t understand all the jokes, I didn’t know all the language. We studied English in Jordan, but it was hard to understand everything people said. And, I didn’t look the same.”

BEHIND EVERY SMILE

18 • The Voice • May 24, 2018 • myvikingvoice.com

‘Being trans is a big part of me, but it is not all of me’ Junior Tristan Spear knew he was transgender at the age of 12.

At the time he had been questioning his identity for a while and was discovering new things about himself.

“I was about 12 when I knew, but I had been questioning it for about a year,” said Spear.

When he was 14 and still going by his female name Traci, many TV shows and movies were coming out that shone a light on transgender people and their lives.

This representation inspired Spear to finally muster up the courage and accept who he was.

“What motivated me to come out was all the new TV shows about LGBTQ+ people. Shows like I Am Jazz and I Am Cait really inspired me into owning who I am,” said Spear, who is biologically female.

“I just accepted who I am and had the confidence to come out. I was surprised in myself.”

He first came out to a group of friends, then he came out to his mom on the car ride home.

Although he was scared and nervous, it was a big moment for him. He finally felt truly free.

“I was very scared and nervous about what my friends and family would think… When I came out, people were very confused and I had to explain it, but they were accepting,” said Spear.

His parents were very supportive and wanted to make sure he could live the best life possible.

“When I came out my mom looked up LGBTQ+ teen groups in Lansing and it felt good to surround myself with the local LGBTQ+ people,” said Spear.

When people at Everett found out, they were cool with it.

“I feel like the community here at Everett is accepting,” said Spear.

The people around him are loving and supportive, but he does not receive this kind of energy everywhere he goes.

His outer-family is more conservative, and not very accepting.

“I have to go to family dinners and events knowing I'm not accepted,” said Spear.

He wants people to know that he is confident in who he is and will not allow anyone to label him as what he's not.

Also, he wants other LGBTQ+ teens to know that they should be proud of who they are and that everything will be OK. “Being trans is a big part of me, but it is not all

of me. My external and internal feelings are not the same…I am very confident in who I am and I don't let anyone tell me I am what I'm not,” said Spear.

“Be proud of who you are. I know it gets hard, but the more you keep pushing it will get better.”

For Tristan, discrimination is “putting somebody down because of something they can't control.”

He personally experienced discrimination at a job interview.

Everything was going fine until he mentioned that his pronouns were he/him.

The atmosphere completely changed and went from positive to awkward. This experience truly hurt Spear and made him question himself.

“It still hurts and it makes you question who you are…It is important to have people feel like actual human beings and not downgrade them because you never know what’s going on in someone’s life,” said Spear.

According to the National Center for Transgender Equality, “more than one in four transgender people have lost a job due to bias, and more than three-fourths have experienced some form of workplace discrimination. Refusal to hire, privacy violations, harassment, and even physical and sexual violence on the job are common occurrences, and are experienced at even higher rates by transgender people of color.”

Discrimination is not the only thing he has faced. Outside of the LGBTQ+ community, people make assumptions about queer people and create stereotypes. Spear is stereotyped and questioned because some people don’t think he looks “masculine enough for what he claims to be.”

“People have stereotyped me because I do wear makeup, I dye my hair and I like bright colors. They say I don’t look very masculine,” said Spear.

Within some minority communities, being queer is seen as a taboo.

Many queer people suffer abuse and bullying from their own community for simply being themselves. Because Spear is a white male, he is more accepted.

“I feel accepted within my racial community, but as much as I hate to say this; more white trans people are accepted and I think that’s really horrible,” said Spear.

Recently, many movies have been representing the LGBTQ+ community. Spear loves that he is being represented, but he feels like most of the characters are based off of stereotypes. Love, Simon just recently came out and Spear loves the way the movie portrayed queer people. It inspired him and showed that love is indeed love.

“I am happy that more LGBTQ+ people are being represented in media but I feel like they set a false picture of what LGBTQ+ life is really like. The characters are usually based off of stereotypes,” said Spear. “People often think that there has to be a masculine person and a feminine person when it comes to gay or lesbian couples, but I think that Love, Simon educated people on that matter because when the two guys were together no one questioned them. They were seen as two regular people in love.”

by Jennifer Bangura

BEHIND EVERY SMILE

Beyond the grave: Death is something that everybody will have to experience at some point in their life. Sometimes, you know death is coming, and you can be prepared for it. For me, that was never the case. My first experience with death was March 11, 2009. I was eight years old when my grandfather died. My second experience, and one of my worst, was when my dad died on the same day two years later. At 46, his brain misfired and shut his body down while he was sleeping. His death was not expected but that’s what happens in life. Life throws events at us we may have thought would never happen.

October 15, 2015 my brother-in-law died. I was 14, and had to help my niece and nephews with their own loss of a dad. They were a lot younger than me, the oldest was five and the youngest was only five months. I knew what it felt like to lose a dad, and I knew how to help.

When I was ten and my dad died, my family and I went to Ele’s Place, a place where kids and families can go for help dealing with the loss of a loved one. People who have had a loss can sit in a group with other people who had a loss as well and just cope with grief in a positive way.

My mom found out about it through a pamphlet and decided to check it out. It was a great program. It was founded in 1991 and has sites in Lansing, Grand Rapids, Flint, and Ann Arbor. Ele’s Place wants to “ensure that no child or teen in the state of Michigan grieves the death of someone to close to them alone,” said Kate Powers, the managing director of Ele’s Place. The organization provides resources through on site programming at the St. Lawrence campus of Sparrow Hospital. They also go to schools across the area and host “grief groups.”

Ele’s place is just one resource out there that can help children deal with a loss. Each family needs to decide what’s best for them. According to NHS Choices, one tip to deal with grief is to express yourself.

“Talking is often a good way to soothe painful emotions,” the website advises. You can talk to a friend, family member, or counselor. Another tip from them is to allow yourself to feel sad. Feeling sad is a very common thing when it comes to grieving. Allow yourself to feel sad instead of judging yourself.

This will help with grief by not making you feel so stressed with the fact you are sad and just realize it is okay for you to feel that way.

Did you know the sleeping can also benefit you in grieving? NHS choices says “emotional strain can make you tired” and that making sure you get enough sleep may help you.

If you are a child or young adult and you experience a loss, you are going to go through grief a lot harder than someone who is an adult. Adults often can control their emotions more effectively and have some experience with dealing with loss. According to Psychology Today, the best and first thing you should do is to inform the child immediately they lost someone before they hear it from someone else. They also suggest to avoid using euphemisms.

They say to avoid phrases like “lost” or “asleep.” You also want to help them express their emotions; give them affection and security.

Liela Rotschy lost her dad 2 ½ years ago; however, her experience was a bit different. She did her grieving “a long time before my dad died” and the hardest part for her loss, was dealing with her dad before he died. Her dad

by Joella Ochaba

had Parkinson’s disease and was going to die at some point, so her dad’s death was expected.

“When he died, it wasn’t the sad part,”’ said Rotschy. She said it was a relief when her dad died, knowing he was not in pain anymore and has moved on.

“People tend to think grieving is sad and depressing but it’s not that simple,” said Rotschy. One tip she gave on grieving, is that you shouldn’t have expectations on what you should feel.

When my dad had died, my mom had a lot of challenges thrown at her. Her hardest one was having to go through her grief alone.

“Not having the mental support of a spouse was hard,” said Michelle Ochaba. She also said that another hard part of losing her spouse was “losing a partner you thought you were going to grow old with. I had to move on without him.” My mom was 42 when he passed away and she had a hard time raising us. When my mom was dealing with grief she faced different obstacles than I did.

My mom also lost her dad on the same day my dad died, two years earlier. This gave her an insight into how my sister and I felt when we lost our dad. My sister said she thought life was a dream when she found out that our dad died. I was more astonished and amazed to have someone so close to me suddenly gone. It was like going to school thinking my dad will still be there, and then coming home and he’s not.

Dealing with a loss takes time. It took my family around four years to accept the fact that dad is gone and not be heartbroken anymore. But life moves forward, and the pain fades. The color has returned to our world and can be at peace with his death along with our other family members. We’ll always remember my dad and my grandpa and brother-in-law and how much better our life was with them here.

19 • The Voice • May 24, 2018 • myvikingvoice.com

With time, pain from parent’s death fades

PHOTO STORY

Cairo Nights: Prom 2018 a night to remember Senior Sein San reacts as her name is read as the winner of Prom Queen 2018. King and queen were voted on during prom by attendees on Friday, May 11, 2018.

Senior Luzander Granderson puts a corsage on his date, senior Candace Wilson, as they get ready for prom. Corsages are on sale all year long at stores like Jon Anthony Florist and Smith Floral & Greenhouses here in Lansing.

CATHLEEN WEAVER

(left to right) Seniors Kaitlyn Jones, Kiara Williams, Sydney Lettau, Kenna Yoder, Shelby Wright, and Jenna Graham jump in the air for a picture. These group of individuals positioned themselves and posed in correlation to a photo from about 6 years ago, ultimately recreating it.

Prom was held at the Grand Ledge Opera House. This building was built in 1884 originally as a roller rink but in 1886 was converted into the opera house. Later, in 1928 was renovated into an event space.

RYAN HICKS RYAN HICKS RYAN HICKS

RYAN HICKS

GLORIA GONZALES

20 • The Voice • May 24, 2018 • myvikingvoice.com

RYAN HICKS

Everett High School Prom King and Queen, Delvonz Flamand (right) and Sein San (left) share a dance at Grand Ledge Opera House on May 11, 2018.

(top) Senior Taylor Windham and Junior Kingsley Caldwell pose for a prom picture in the photo booth at Grand Ledge Opera House May 11, 2018. (bottom) Seniors Emirald Potter and Steven Walzak pose for a couples photo.