The Voice: January 6, 2016

Voice The

your school. your voice.

Volume 56, Issue 3 January 6, 2016

news

‘Read-a-latte’ in Everett Library Media Center Isaiah Garrett Multi-Media Editor Everett Library Media Center has a new coffee machine ready to satisfy its readers with a variety of warm beverages. For just $1.25 you can get a cup of whatever drink you want.

Just go to the library in the morning and pick up a cup of coffee with as many cream and sugar packets you need or, you can go in at lunch and grab some hot cocoa and study.

Along with the hot cocoa there is spiced hot apple cider, and a variety of coffee beverages.

The library media center, with its new addition of comfy couches, is becoming Everett’s own in-home café.

Depending on how busy the library is, you can get your hot beverage in less than two minutes. French roasted coffee is a flavor that you can get right here at school. Also they offer hazelnut and french vanilla. If you are not into coffee they offer hot chocolate as well and

some spiced apple cider.

The money that is made is used to buy more books for the library. They currently have made enough for five books.

“It’s a wonderful way for the library to raise money while also giving students the opportunity to enjoy cheap coffee to energize them and get them ready for the day,” said senior Za’Quan Callahan.

The library media center is also going green. When you bring your own cup you save 25 cents and get to keep the trash bin a little bit less full. The library is open now during lunch to students who wish to study alone or together with friends.

“The flavors will be changing depending on what people are requesting,” said Librarian Joy Curie.

Make sure to grab a cup of whatever you choose while you are there. Leave your input and you might possibly see it added to the menu posted right above the coffee machine in section B.

21 Annual Snowflake Ball floats through EV It’s that time of the year again. Halloween has passed, it has started to snow, and Christmas is in the air. This season calls for Everett to have it’s annual Snowflake Ball.

The Snowflake Ball was established and utilized thanks to social studies teacher Judith Hightower. The Snowflake Ball has been around for now 21 years.

“The snowflake ball was started as a fund raiser to raise money for the prom of the class of ‘95 and the senior trip to the Bahamas,” said Hightower.

The Snowflake ball was so successful Hightower continued to have it for her history class. Around 300 students attend the ball each year. The money raised this year is going towards the trip to New York and Washington.

There are a few things to remember if you want to attend the Snowflake Ball. The Snowflake Ball is a formal event; so jeans and sneakers won’t cut it. Dress for success is their motto. To bring students from outside of Everett to the Snowflake Ball, you have to have a permission slip filled out. To be able to request a song for the DJ to play you had to go to Hightower and put your song for a list.

Tickets were sold in the cafeteria $20 for singles $30 for couples and $25 at the

door. Although the Snowflake Ball is a popular Everett event, some students don’t have a positive view of the Ball.

“The snowflake ball is just an overpriced dance that people who can’t go to prom go to,” said senior Jessica Arnold.

Even though there are mixed reviews for the Snowflake Ball, there is no argument that it is a way for students to be able to relax and have fun. It is a great way to make positive memories with your friends and

dress up for a formal setting.

“I made great memories with my friends and had so much fun,” said senior Monntel West.

The 21st Snowflake Ball was another hit for Hightower. The DJ played lots of Drake. Students were there dancing till the clock struck midnight.

“I enjoyed myself at the Ball. I wish they would've played more slow songs to dance too,” said junior Katlin Lewis.

Alexa Johnson

2 • The Voice • October 29, 2014 • myvikingvoice.com

Raquel Adkins Photostory Editor

Sophomores Elijah Hartley and Joi Thurman and senior Yicheng (Paul) Li dance together to Slow Motion by Trey Songz . The Snowflake Ball is a yearly event that gives students a chance to meet each other and socialize.

Latino Club gives back Briana Vazquez Reporter On November 28, Everett’s Latino Club reached out to the community, volunteering at the Ronald McDonald House.

Most of the families who tend to stay in the Ronald McDonald house are those with premature babies; one of the longest stays was nine months. The Ronald McDonald house is located right in front of Sparrow so parents don't have to worry about any traveling expenses.

This will be the fourth year that Latino Club went to help out. This year Marisol Torres Garcia, school counselor intern Ezekiel Moreno and Oralia Contreras are organizers of the program this year, but only Contreras and Garcia were able to attend.

“Only ten students are accepted to go and two adults for chaperones,” said Contreras.

The Ronald McDonald house was chosen after a club member paid the facility a visit a few years ago.

“It all started by one of our prior presidents of the Latino Club had gone there [over the] summer. She told us she had liked helping the parents there and we’ve gone since then,” said Contreras.

Since the moment they arrived they were treated like family.

“We were greeted and instructed that

we were guest in the house, so we had to be very quiet. She gave us [the students whom attended] a list of the tasks we had to do and that needed to be done,” said student Arianna Orta.

The students completed tasks that the regular staff does not usually do. They disinfected toys that the children play with, cleaned the bathrooms, vacuumed the floors, counted socks and dusted the blinds. Other years they have made beds, cleaned out the fridge, done laundry and even cleaned outside if the weather is nice.

“Usually everyone is separated into groups and from there we work our way down to the basement from the third floor,” said Contreras.

The Latino Club has done more than just help around the house with basic chores. A year ago, they also helped in another way.

“We have collected donations and it all went towards Ronald McDonald and we’ve also taken them some fresh fruit for them to have,” said Contreras.

In the end students take with them knowing that they're not just helping but also making a difference in someone's life.

“It feels good to help out people who are in need and as long as I see everyone with a smile, the experience is great,” said freshman Miguel Ruiz.

OPINION

OUR VOICE:

The

Having an open campus for lunch would reduce the amount of tickets, and disciplinary action the administration, and public safety would have to deal with. The first time you are caught leaving campus, you receive a warning, and have your name put on a list.

The second time you are caught, depending why you were leaving or returning, can result in getting a second warning, or a ticket to your car. On your third offense administration will not allow you to bring your vehicle on school property to park any more, and or a ticket. An open campus lunch would reduce all of the time public safety and administration have to spend on punishing students who just want some good food.

“It’s not fair we have such drastic consequences for wanting to get food; it’s less food the school would need to serve students anyway,” said senior Joey Sanchez.

Students now, should not have to suffer for the actions of some of the student body from the past. The school board and superintendent Wallace decided to implement the closed campus rules, and they need to change it back. Write a letter to the school board! We have a right to good food!

Dirty bathrooms can cause serious health problems Viking should learn how to flush toilets, leave no paper towel in the sink, and keep the bathrooms clean. Anyone who has used the bathrooms at Everett know what to expect.

The toilets are clogged. Toilet paper and paper towel are all over the ground, and then there is the smell.

Vikings should keep the bathrooms clean so that they don’t smell or look bad.

If the bathrooms are dirty, people won’t want to use them. That could be dangerous, especially for girls they could get a urinary tract infection from holding it.

Vikings should want to keep the bathroom clean because when we have parents or guests come here, they’re going to want to use a clean bathroom. We need parents to say nice things about our school. If they used dirty bathrooms, they will spread negative things about Everett. It's not just parents, but visiting sport teams and other community members need to see the best face of Everett.

Some students may say they don't have time to take care of things or clean up after themselves because of hall sweeps. Others may say that they just don't care, but they

should care. It only takes five seconds or less to clean up after yourself.

Finally, students should care about the cleanliness of a bathroom because they should care about their health. Bacteria like E. Coli and Streptococcus are two of the biggest germs that grow in unclean bathrooms. We’re making each other sick by not cleaning up after ourselves.

Unclean bathrooms are a bad image for Everett, and can be very unhealthy. Students should take the few extra seconds and clean up after themselves to keep our Everett bathrooms clean.

THE STAFF

Arin Dampier Business Manager

The Friday after thanksgiving is Black Friday, one of the major shopping days in the United States. Ever since The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade first happened in 1924, the Friday after Thanksgiving has been known as the unofficial start of the holiday shopping season. Black Friday consists of “great deals” in basically every store, deals they say you won’t usually get throughout the year. Over the years black Friday has gotten very popular and very serious. People camp out of stores on Thanksgiving day just so they can be the first few people to get into the store when it opens.

People fight over things when they get into the stores because things run out fast.

I understand that there are some good deals on Black Friday but people in this world take black Friday way too serious. In an article from the US News and World Report, it states that more people die on Black Friday than in shark attacks. Seven

people have died and 98 have been injured during Black Friday shopping since 2006 and that's crazy.

People shouldn't have their lives taken because everyone is trying to get a good deal on something that's not as important as a life.

It seems like everyone thinks that Black Friday is the only time you're going to get “really good shopping deals,” which is not true. You can find some good deals, sometimes even better deals on a non-Black Friday sale. You don't have to wait until one day of the year to go and get something for a cheap price.

Some of the Black Friday sales are a scam as well. A study that WalletHub said was that as much as 17 percent of the items sold on Black Friday will be more expensive in the stores than on Amazon.

I’m personally not going to waste my money on something that I can get for a cheaper price on another day.

I just think that people make a really big deal out of Black Friday sales, when they are not all they seem to be.

EDITORS Katrina Turner (Editor-in-Chief) Katrina Turner (News) Ruth Becerril (Opinion) Alexa Johnson (Features) Salma Torres (Entertainment) Dennis Parker (Sports) Raquel Adkins (Photo Story) Dan Tran (Online) Arin Dampier (Business Manager) Isaiah Garrett (Multi-Media Editor) Kaitlyn Brown-Hatchett and Julia Tominski (Social Media Editors) REPORTERS Ali Aljazi Erin Arnold Lexis Dawson Deqa Husein Linda Lee Yicheng Li Bebeto Nyongobela Angelica Ordiway Stherlyne Osterne Sein San Kylie Skuse Nick Snider Kira Thatcher Briana Vazquez 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 fourth 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 email 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.

Everett archives

Angelica Ordiway Reporter

3900 Stabler Road Lansing, MI 48910 (517)755-4472 myvikingvoice.com myvikingvoice@gmail.com

3 • The Voice • January 6, 2016 • myvikingvoice.com

About seven years ago the Lansing police department and the school board decided that the high schools should stop allowing students to leave campus during their lunch periods to get food. The reason for this change was the amount of truancy happening at the high schools, as well as some other factors, that happened years ago. Students of 2016 should not be punished for the mistakes of students in 2008.

“A lot of students were leaving campus and not coming back, smoking, fighting, and breaking into people's homes,” said security officer John Pentecost.

Although what those past students have done was bad, it does not mean that re-opening campus will cause history to repeat itself.

Students and parents often complain about the food being given to the students. Many of the complaints refer to the food’s quality and/or taste. I’m sure everyone would appreciate being able to get something appetizing for lunch.

“Whenever I get my lunch, my chicken nuggets are soggy and taste like paste, I rather eat something that will fill me up, and I enjoy,” said junior Mariah Hernandez

Black Friday Voice offers students a chance to shop with cheap prices

OPINION

PARTY TIME Ali Aljazi Reporter

Donald Trump

Once again the Businessman Donald Trump has entered as a Presidential candidate on the republican side. And again his campaign has seemed nothing more than another publicity stunt. It’s tough to turn on the television and see someone who is not talking about the joke that is Donald Trump. With ideas such as building a wall to block off Mexicans and his angry reactions to comments against him, he has acquired some notoriety. But regardless of his actions, Trump’s popularity is rising. Even though he is rising in popularity it is easy to say he does not have what it takes to be a good president.

Trump’s plans for the economy aren’t going to help raise our economy. First off his tax plans aren’t going to help fund programs to rebuild the Middle class. Although he plans to completely cut taxes from families making less than $25,000 a year, he also wants to decrease the taxes on the upper class, so in total less revenue is being made in taxes and the rich will get

4 • The Voice • October 29, 2014 • myvikingvoice.com

Kylie Skuse Reporter

Ben Carson

With 18 candidates running for president only a few of them are well known and closely followed. Ben Carson, a retired neurosurgeon and republican, and Bernie Sanders, a senator for Vermont are two of their party’s contenders. Both of them have their “ups and downs” when it comes to their stances, but one, maybe more than the other.

Ben Carson, a pediatric neurosurgeon who seems to still be stuck living in the past, believes that abortion is murder. Carson wishes to outlaw all abortion, meaning anyone not ready to bring a child into the world or victimized by rape must have that child. Abortion is a private matter, that should be kept between a woman and her doctor.

According to Carson, it’s not okay to end a life that hasn’t officially started yet, but it’s just fine to put weapons in the hands of anyone who asks for one. Everyone deserves to have a way to protect themselves and sense of security in their homes.

richer. This means that we won’t have as much money for government funded programs. He claims his plan will also allow expansion of social security, medicare, and medicaid, but has no idea how to do so. What cuts will be made and what money will his reduced tax plan get him?

Another plan to improve the economy was to heavily tax China on imports, who Donald Trump believes is getting rich at the expense of the United States. But how could this be a good plan? If Trump was able to think this through with logic he would see it could not work. This would start a trade war.

China would then tax our imports and we would be hurt since the United States imports more goods than China.

A huge and recent issue is Donald Trump and his Muslim ban. Trump has stated that he will not allow Muslims to enter this country and wants to deport all of them, including the ones that have a citizenship. This is not only a very offensive belief, but it is also illegal. The first amendment guarantees that everyone has the right to practice any religion. Many are op-

Ben Carson truly believes this, and he also is under the impression that everyone needs to have a gun to do this. Carson is against the extra security and background checks that “weaken the second amendment” but keep these dangerous weapons out of the wrong hands. As Carson points out, the right to bear arms is one everyone has had since the Bill of Rights but as time goes on and society evolves, it becomes more and more dangerous.

We need to have the proper background checks to keep guns out of the hands of those who could cause damage to themselves or others.

Along with a belief that only guns can protect the people of America, Carson is still stuck in the 1700’s, believing that religion should run our society. Faith and belief in some type of higher power creates morals and character in a person.

However, if society is based around one specific religion, everyone is forced to live by morals they may not believe in. Carson wants to keep this in society, which will inevitably end in disaster. Everyone should have the right to practice their chosen

posing this, including republicans.

In response to Trump’s statement, Republican Speaker of the House, Paul Ryan said, “[What was proposed by Trump] is not what this party stands for and more importantly, it is not what this country stands for.

Not only are there many muslims serving in our armed forces dying for this country; there are muslims serving right here in the House working everyday to uphold and defend the constitution.”

Trump is constantly seen disrespecting the many cultures, races, and ethnicities of Americans. In the closing line of our Pledge of Allegiance we promise, “Liberty and Justice for all.” How can we say we are American if we threaten the liberty of the many different people residing and contributing to our nation?

How can people support a man who fails to follow the American beliefs? He is a selfish man who doesn’t care for the nation’s people, but only himself and his wealth. It makes no sense that he is leading the polls, but if he were to win the election, the next great joke will be the United States.

religion, but that right stops just short of imposing views and beliefs on another person, which with no doubt happen.

But Ben Carson isn’t the only one taking a stand on certain subjects and issues based on previous events in history. America would not be the place it is today without the events that happened in the past. Every decision made, every war fought, brought us one step closer to where we are now.

After becoming our own country, America has let slide the care for those who have fought in the name of freedom. With about 50,000 veterans living on the streets, Carson would rather focus his attention on currently serving soldiers than veterans who have fought for the country and lost so much.

As he runs for president, Carson is only concerned about his own political ideas becoming reality. Carson isn’t opening his mind to even consider the other side and voting him into the oval office is a bad idea.

Our well-reasoned, opinion-filled look at the candidates and their views on important topics Kylie Skuse Reporter

Bernie Sanders says no more.

Sanders is trying his best to help fund organizations that care for our veteran’s physical, and mental states, as well as giving them the jobs and respect they deserve for fighting for our country's freedom.

Another group of people currently being ignored and neglected are the immigrant families who come here to start fresh.

Because of this neglect, a common stereotype among Hispanics is whether or not they “jumped the border.” There are about 11 million undocumented immigrants in America now and many of them, to Donald

Trump’s dismay, have set up their lives here and do not plan on leaving anytime soon. As the son of a Polish immigrant, Bernie Sanders wants to make coming to America a little more easy and a little less illegal. Instead of having a large complicated mess of paperwork for each person who is trying to come to America, Sanders wants to put a new, fair and humane policy for all immigrants who wish to try their luck on the American dream.

Every high school student in America has two choices after they graduate. They can find a minimum wage job to work at for the foreseeable future, or they can go to college for a degree and specialize in a job of their choice. Unfortunately, students are being

discouraged from going to college because of the large amounts of debt waiting for them at the end of that path. Bernie Sanders wants to change that. With the Sanders plan, six simple steps will be taken to eliminate that dark cloud of worrisome debt.

The decisions that our representative makes on things like abortion, gun control, religion, college, immigration, and even how veterans are treated will affect the lives of everyone in the country and help shape our youth into adults.

America doesn’t want to see a man or woman, with no previous training in politics, take the oval office. We need someone who will look out for our best interests and that is Bernie Sanders.

THE CANDIDATES VIEWS ON FOUR PRESSING ISSUES Gun Control

Trump: Against gun control, Americans deserve to have guns.

Carson: No limits to gun ownership, except in cases of insanity.

Sanders: Mixed approach to gun control v.s gun rights.

Clinton: Balance lawful gun ownership & keep guns from criminals.

Education

Trump: Proposes to cut department of education.

Carson: Values private school over public school.

Sanders: Proposes free college for all.

Clinton: Supports structured inner schools.

Ali Aljazi Reporter Hillary Clinton has made her mark this year. Her populist tone and liberal beliefs have made her the most popular among the democratic candidates, according to the polls. Her popularity may come from the desire to be a champion for the middle and lower class American, while creating plans that are rational. In the end, Clinton’s plans can make the difference in America.

Clinton’s wants to raise the middle class and decrease the lower class. She proposed a plan in which the upper class should be taxed higher and decrease the taxes of the lower and middle class. In doing so the rich will contribute by putting that money to better the society.

The money would be used to expand programs

Immigration

Trump: We need strong borders; we need a wall. Known for anti-immigrant comments and beliefs.

Carson: No citizenship for illegal immigrants.

Sanders: Secure borders without building a fence.

Clinton: Immigrants keep America young and dynamic.

Bernie Sanders

Abortion

Trump: Changed views to pro-life based on personal stories.

Carson: Personally against, makes exceptions in case of mothers’ health only.

Sanders: Lifetime pro-choice record, plus funding for family planning and contraceptive measures.

Clinton: Make abortion rare by supporting adoption & foster care, pro-choice but not pro-abortion.

that aid the old and the poor, such as medicare, medicaid, and social security. It only makes sense that the system works that way. Why should people live gluttonous lives, while others struggle working full-time?

Concerning those who are living hand-tomouth lives working full time, she has proposed a $12 minimum wage. Some may argue that Increasing wages will decrease job production and creation, but studies have shown it could lean slightly to either side. A higher wage will allow people to pay their rent and save some money for emergencies. The cost of living is constantly increasing, but the minimum wage has been stagnant since 2009. People also need to be able to have money for something fun every now and then so that they are not mentally fatigued. It also makes it tough to raise a family. Kids need to be able to experience different

things, but financial struggles can limit that.

Another great plan she has made is to use more money helping students pay for college.

College can be expensive and students who come from lower class families working minimum wage can’t pay for college. In this generation most higher paying jobs require an education. If people aren’t able to get this education, how can they get better jobs and contribute to the economy?

Clinton’s popularity is no surprise, considering her goal to aid America’s majority, and the idea of a first female American president.

Other democratic candidates may strive for the same goals, but they demand too much in the eyes of many. Clinton has got what it takes to lead Americans out of the domestic issues that plague the country.

Hillary Clinton

5 • The Voice • January 6, 2016 • myvikingvoice.com

E!

OPINION

OPINION

Paul’s Point:

Trip to bathroom one I’ll always regret

6 • The Voice • October 29, 2014 • myvikingvoice.com

2015/09/12, 11:25:45 a.m. EST. Paul walked into the so-called forbidden zone, someplace nobody would, or could ever discuss, as if the name of the word is ominous, bring misfortune by just saying it.

Paul stopped at the door, lingering with hesitation. Under the shabby and rusty door lies some unidentified liquid, sticky and filthy.

He took a deep breath to calm himself, but only to realize that he made a mistake. He wasn’t even sure if the malodorous air was breathable.

Before this mission, the captain assured his history of vaccination for times and times.

“So you have received the entire set of injections for hep-C, right, at the age of six?”

Captain rubbed her hands continuously with sanitizer, as what she did every time when someone is in danger.

Paul was unwilling to pay this visit in the first place. It had already been to hard enough to cross half the hemisphere here only to meet with fake Chinese food. Now he had no choice but go to the forbidden zone, all by himself.

Nobody forced him, but it was just the urge from the internal mind that pushed him towards the unknown, or the abysmal unknown.

With breath held, Paul pushed his way into the area. To his surprise, there was still a pale fluorescent light above his head on the ceiling, simmering, struggling and sizzling. It

was clear now that the liquid was not just a puddle near the door. Instead, it felt more like a relic of inundation, with rotten paper soaked with the stickiness everywhere.

With tensed nerves, Paul slothed to the booth-like things. It was unexpectedly easy to open the door considering its deviation from the axis. Paul didn’t realize it was just a placidity before the true disaster.

Paul swore in Chinese when he realized it was mission impossible to lock the door.

Though it was nothing compared with what Paul had experienced, it was still disturbing having to hold the door with one hand.

Paul thought he had seen something in the mission point, a sanitation fixture which reminded him of the masterpiece of Marcel Duchamp, the fountain. However, some unknown objects still floated in the unclean water, a signal that some living creature had just been to this place. Though it was unlikely for that beast to come back, Paul believed that it would be a better idea to stay away.

Paul decided that he would never use the bathrooms at Everett again, for the sake of his own safety.

After returning to the base, Paul thought it would be a good idea if whoever got busted for making a mess in the bathrooms should not be allowed to his/her graduation ceremony for penalty.

Katrina Turner

Yicheng (Paul) Li is an exchange student from China.

At home, he was the editor in the broadcasting station at his school. He made sure to join the newspaper staff when he got to Everett.

Each month, Paul will share his colorful view of life at Everett, as seen by someone from the other side of the globe.

If you have missed any Voice TV episodes, check them out on our YouTube page at youtube.com/myvikingvoice

Features

How to: build your own Gingerbread house

1. GATHER THE DISHES The very first thing to making gingerbread houses, are the ingredients and dishes used to make the bread. Making gingerbread requires two smaller bowls and one big bowl. One small bowl is for the solids and the other is for liquids. Before starting, make sure there is a half cup of butter in the big bowl, softening while measuring out the ingredients.

2. MEASURE THE INGREDIENTS

It’s recommended that the solids be measured out. The things you will need for the first bowl are 1¼ cups of flour, ½ cup of sugar, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of baking soda (be sure not to confuse these, if not it could result in some bad tasting gingerbread), 1 teaspoon of ground ginger, ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and ½ teaspoon of ground cloves. When you have all these in the first bowl, use a fork to stir it all up and help make it a bit smoother.

For the second bowl you will need only three things; 1 egg, ½ cup of molasses and 1 tablespoon of vinegar. When all the liquids are together you do not need to mix them while they are in the small bowl.

3. MIX THE INGREDIENTS Now that you have all the ingredients measured out, you can go back to the softened butter and beat it with a fork, spatula, or automatic mixer until it becomes smooth, once this has been accomplished, put both the liquids and the solids into the big bowl and mix it until it comes to a thick consistency, and at that time add another 1¼ cup of flour and mix it again.

4.REFRIGERATE After this is done the dough needs to be refrigerated from one to three hours. When it’s in the fridge no air circulation should get to it, so put some plastic or saran wrap over it, giving it no space to breathe. While waiting it is recommended that you get out a large cookie sheet, frosting, decorative candies, and a plate or some cardboard with foil wrapped around it completely.

While waiting you can also spread out a thin layer

5.ROLL THE DOUGH When the dough is ready, knead it into a large ball and separate it in half, then mold it into a patty before rolling it out to about a ¼ inch wide patty with a lightly floured rolling pin.

6.CUT THE SHAPES Next you need to cut out the pieces to bake (if you don’t want to draw on the windows or door with frosting, cut them out at this step). You need two of each shape and depending on how large your cookie cutters are you may have some extra dough left.

You can use this to make gingerbread men or trees or even another house! Before starting this step, make sure you preheat the oven at 375 degrees, when you’re ready bake the cookies for five to six minutes.

7.COOL! Almost done! Before you can decorate be sure to wait about ten minutes for the bread to cool down otherwise trying to set up the house could end in disaster. After the cookies are cooled, use room temperature frosting to build your house.

8.FROST Put frosting on the end of one side of a wall and the connecting wall. Gently but firmly, press the frosted walls together and place them on the flat surface. Do one at a time and give each time to set up. This should take from half an hour to an hour for the frosting to set.

9.DECORATE The last thing is the decorating. You should always have frosting for basic structuring but candy canes are more of a tradition than a necessity. Depending on what kind of decorations you have, you can turn your gingerbread house into anything whether it be a log cabin or a home for five, gingerbread houses are always a fun holiday decoration and treat.

Planning a Gingerbread House?

What You Need To Know:

1.

If possible, do this with someone who has done it before and can tell you if you’re over mixing, or if the batter is the right texture.

2.

You have to hold pieces together for A LONG TIME to make sure they’re really going to stick. If you don’t wait long enough, your house will come crumbling down.

3.

It takes a long time to make a gingerbread house from scratch. In the end, you can be proud when all of your hard work pays off in an architectural masterpiece.

7 • The Voice • January 6, 2016 • myvikingvoice.com

As Halloween fades and Thanksgiving passes, families all over the world prepare for Christmas.

Children help their parents pick out trees to decorate with ornaments, hang stockings and wrap presents. Besides the gifts and time with relatives, a large tradition is building gingerbread houses.

Decorating gingerbread houses has always been a lot of family fun, but making gingerbread houses from scratch can be a long and hot affair. However, in the end, many agree that the end result is worth the hard work they put in.

of flour onto the surface you’re using to put the dough on when it’s ready.

All photos by Kylie Skuse

Kylie Skuse Reporter

Entertainment

Don’t waste your money.

4/10.

Salma

The Not-Final Star Wars calls all to fans ians love the movie unconditionally.

“I watched Star Wars when I was five years old,” said sophomore history teacher Timothy Walker, “And I’ve loved it ever since.”

Insta

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freshm a n Caleb Weiker.

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8 • The Voice • October 29, 2014 • myvikingvoice.com

A long time ago in a galaxy far, far away…. Actually, 1974 and in Los Angeles California, George Lucas thought up the Star Wars franchise. Star Wars is a space odyssey about a young boy finding out he has magic like powers. Many movies later, the franchise has a huge following with mega fans called Star Warians as it became a huge pop culture phenomenon. The recognizable characters and phrases such as “ Luke I am your father” or “ Help me Obi Wan, you’re my only hope” have become regular phrases in our vocabulary including “Jedi” and “the Force”.

“I think the impact has been great on pop culture because it keeps everybody excited about the next Star Wars and it keeps people interested in space and aliens,” said assistant principal Marcelle Carruthers.

This winter, The 7th installment of the Star Wars franchise is finally coming out. Star Wars The Force Awakens comes out December 18 at Midnight. Tickets were sold out as soon as the public was allowed to buy tickets.

Merchandise has been for sale for over a year now with no signs of stopping of growing.

Ever store you walk into, at least one thing for sale is Star Wars.

“Everywhere I go I see Star Wars stuff.

The mall, Meijer, Walmart, Target,” said public safety officer Jay Pentecost.

Fans are dying to know any information about the new characters, the plot line and what happened after Luke Skywalker, Princess

Leia and Han Solo blew up the Death Star, killed Darth Vader and Emperor Palpatine.

“Some people say that Luke has gone to the Dark Side. I can’t wait to find out,” said freshman biology teacher Ashley Teed.

Some people are going to see the movie in the middle of the night just to be the first to see it or because other showings were all sold out.

“I’m going to Star Wars at 1:00 a.m. When it comes out with my parents, my sister and my girlfriend. This is the only time we could get.

I think my girlfriend is dressing up,” said

Ali Aljazi Reporter

@Sta

Julia Tominski Social Media Editor

But no matter how crazy the fans are or when they see the movie, Star War-

What students at Everett desire the most for Christmas It’s almost that time of the year. The snow glitters as the light reflects against it. Homes are illuminated with the brightest and most beautiful colors. People are in good spirits and can’t wait for Christmas. They all have different hopes and expectations for the holiday, and most have one thing most important to them on December 25.

A survey was conducted on 162 Everett students. The most popular gift at Everett, and most likely for many other high school students, was money. Almost half (46.29%) of students said that money was the best gift.

This is a common trend among Christmas surveys. For many years, gift cards have been the most popular gift when money was not a separate option. Students may like money because of the freedom of choice to the recipient.

“Money is the best gift because you can get whatever you want with it,” said junior Lynden Badgley.

Money may be popular, but there are some things you can’t do with money. To some the holiday is about love, family and friendship… Doing good for others to make oneself happy and those around them.

One in Ten people would think spending time with family was the best gift, a great purpose for the holiday.

“Spending time with family is most important to me,” said Danielle Finney. “I’m not too close with my family, so it would be nice to spend time

with them. People think money can buy happiness, but you can’t.”

The second most popular choice was Other (14.20%). The answers students gave for choosing Other varied, from trips, to love, to books. There was no common trend, but love appeared four times.

The Holiday is soon to come and excitement fills the air. To some the joy will come from family, others will love the gifts, and some will be grateful for a couple days off work. Christmas will be filled with lights, gifts, love, happiness and for us students and staff, we’ll get a well deserved two weeks off from school. (Unless AP teachers want to give us homework. BOO).

ghcristian.ro

Krampus is a movie about an old folktale that originated in Austria. The tale tells the story of an anti-Santa who punishes children for bad behavior. The horror theme film aired in theaters December fourth.

Krampus as a comedy would have been great, but given the fact it was in the genre of horror, it was extremely disappointing. There was a constant light mood, and humorous aspects to laugh at, but did not create an atmosphere that makes you want to cover your eyes and scream.

In the film, a boy still wants to believe in Santa, even though no one else around him does. The more dysfunctional part of his family comes to celebrate Christmas at his house, and fighting and tension is constantly breaking out. At the very moment he loses his hope in Christmas and in old St. Nicholas, Kram-

pus gains the power to come punish his family. Krampus comes with help, little psychotic gingerbread, pointy-teeth dolls, a child eating jack-in-the-box, terrorizing elves, and even a blood-seeking teddy bear.

Too bad the gingerbread were too small and cute to be afraid of, and the jack-in-thebox ran off like a coward multiple times. Also, the terrorizing elves looked like they belonged in The Purge. HELLOOOO! Wrong movie.

Honestly, the elves weren’t even short, were short actors not able to fit in the budget?

The acting however was good, and believable enough. It followed the typical “dumb kids go into scary attic” setting. They hear a weird voice upstairs and follow it in pure ignorance.

For a horror movie, Krampus was not good, it was not scary, but was classified under horror, and the effects were terrible. I spent almost the whole movie being upset over how terrible it was, and the plot had no structure.

Legendary/universal pictures

Arin Dampier Business Manager

Torres

In this movie, you hope Christmas never comes

SPORTS Winter weather doesn’t mean you can’t ever leave the house

FROZEN FUN:

Pom Pon offers new basketball show Ruth Becerril Opinion Editor

This year Everett has organized a girls pom-pon team for basketball season, meaning the halftime performance won't belong to just the cheerleaders anymore. The pom pon team and the cheer leading team are to share the floor during the game's halftime making it a bit of a change for the cheerleaders.

“Having to split the halftime shows is different. I don't see it as a bad thing though, more like a friendly competition,” said senior cheerleader Cortoria Jones.

It was also a surprise to the pom pon girls having to share the floor with the cheerleaders since they hadn't performed during half time in the past.

“I think it’s weird because they never

perform at halftime and now they are,” said senior, and captain of the pom pon team, Naycia Jackson.

The pom pon girls also see the performance as a competition. However, they happen to take it very serious.

“I feel like it’ll be like a competition between us instead of two enjoyable shows,” said senior and pom pon captain, Naycia Jackson.

Although most people think pom pon it basically the same as cheer leading, there happens to be quite a difference in their routine.

“Pom pon is a whole different type of organization. It’s like dance but strictly with pom pons,” said Jackson.

Even though they share the spotlight at halftime, the audience will have their own opinion about the performances.

air-popped popcorn, low fat yogurt, string cheese, applesauce, fruit smoothie, pickles, apple chips, or oatmeal. Healthy snacks can be filling, taste good. Eating right will keep you fit, and help your mood as well.

“Eating healthy makes you feel great, while cakes and cookies can make you fat,” said Norris.

Eating healthy not only makes you feel better, but makes your body better. I not only keeps you slim and gets you muscles but it makes it so you do not have health problems.

Eating unhealthy and not exercising can make you end up with diabetes “Eating healthy and staying fit is important for your health especially when you are older,” said health teacher Marcel Carruthers.

It’s a beautiful morning and there is pile of snow, and you’re wondering what to do?

Tobogganing and sledding are both fun ways to enjoy snow. It will be cold so gear up and get your sled or toboggan to enjoy your day.

“Sledding and snowboarding is my favorite hobby in the wintertime because I love snow,” said sophomore Alyssa Yonana.

Toboggan is a long-bottomed light sled made usually of thin boards curved up at one end with usually low handrails at the sides. The shape of it would be a letter “J”. Today’s toboggan is made from wood or aluminum and it much heavier than a regular sled.

Many people enjoy winter time hobbies.

For sophomore Andrea Thompson, sledding is an almost perfect winter activity.

“On a scale to one to ten, I would give it an eight because after sledding down the hill, I don’t like walking back up,” said sophomore Andrea Thompson.

There is many places you can go sledding and tobogganing. For families and friends that love spending time together, this would be a perfect way to have fun.

“It’s fun to do with the family, it feels like when we go together as a family, we get re-

connected and feeling the wind as your going down is one of the best parts, because you just get a rush,” said sophomore Alexis Smith.

One popular spot is Burchfield Park, which is Ingham County’s largest park. It’s 540 acres in Holt surrounding the Grand River. Burchfield has a big hill where you can go sledding, tobogganing, and many more.

There’s also trails you can walk through if you decide not to go sledding. Admission is $3 per vehicle.

Hawk Island County park is another spot that may be a little closer. The 100-acre park is located on Cavanaugh Road, between Pennsylvania Avenue and Aurelius Road. The hill just got done being built and it’s ready to use for snowboarding and skiing. Admission is $3 per vehicle.

Another park you may want to hit is Waverly Sledding Hill. This is a free option; there’s no cost for parking. It’s a big hill that can take a while to climb up, and as soon as you get to the top, you would want to ride down the hill again. You’ll burn the calories and be able to enjoy the hot chocolate afterwards guilt-free!

This winter, go gear up and take a nice drive out to one of the three hills in the area, or maybe even try all three for an epic day of Lansing-area winter fun.

erin Arnold

warm. You should dress in layers that are easy to take on and off and made of sweat resistant materials. Hats and gloves are always a must. Wear sweaty clothes outside can have you with a cold so make sure to dress in the right clothes. Once back inside grab a hot to drink to warm up.

Along with staying fit exercise is not the only thing you have to do; you have to eat right. Eating right is the one of hardest thing about staying fit. Making sure you do not consume too much sugar or carbohydrates.

“I try to stick to salads, fruit, veggies, meat, and Drinking 8 ounces of water a day,” said senior Jason Sailor.

Some healthy things you can snack on instead of cake and cookies is rice cakes, fruit,

Sein San Reporter

9 • The Voice • January 6, 2016 • myvikingvoice.com

Raquel Adkins Photostory

It is hard to stay fit when it is freezing outside and there are fattening holidays.

Sports activities are coming to an end, and Christmas desserts are everywhere you look.

Studies show that people gain the most weight in the winter than any other time of the year.

There are tons of fun activities to do to stay fit and get out.

“I just exercise to stay fit like do pull ups, sit ups, push ups, dips and curling,” said senior Brandon Bolte.

But you don’t need gym equipment to stay fit in the winter. You and your friends can go ice skating, skiing, snowboarding, or even sledding. If you are feeling helpful or just want to make some money you can go out and shovel your neighbor's driveways.

If you want to stay inside you can do some yoga, buy or rent a fitness video, or you can even join a gym.

“To stay fit this winter I am going to be taking a boxing class,” said senior Mac Norris.

If you are going to do anything thing that involves the outside, don’t forget to keep

Local parks offer winter activites demi Steif, freeimages.com

Staying fit in the winter is not as hard as it may seem

SPORTS

Winter Players to Watch With the transition into winter, several of Everett’s indoor sports are rolling out.

The winter athletic season is kicking off, and athletes are firing up their competitive spirits. Swimming, wrestling, basketball and bowling are all training and competing in the next few months, with several people standing out as Everett’s star players. From rising hotshots to hardened veteran athletes, Everett’s winter athletic teams are full of gifted individuals.

“I love the water and how free I feel when I swim. [I love] when I push myself to get things done, and the feeling I get when I win a race,” said Ho, “the team is like family and easy to get along with.”

Wrestling is a sport of strength and skill. As evident with alumnus Mike “Big Mike” Morgan who went on to pursue a career in professional bodybuilding, the wrestlers at Everett are some of the strongest students in the whole school.

However, behind the brawn is also the brain of a strategist. Wrestlers must think critically, being able to properly incorporate several different techniques and maneuvers depending the situation.

Being a wrestler also takes discipline to maintain such an energy consumptive body with proper training and nutrition. Senior Isiah Williams represents this winter’s wrestling team. Unlike many other athletes, Williams honed his skills completely within his high school career, having only began wrestling his freshman year.

“At first I didn't really care about it, but at sophomore year I got really good at it. I really fell in love with it,” said Williams As a four year wrestler, he came a long way since his freshman year. This year as the only captain, not to mention for a long while, he stood as the only senior.

His dedication had carried him out a long way. He enjoys the competition and the feeling of achievement it brings.

Dennis Parker

10 • The Voice • October 29, 2014 • myvikingvoice.com

Wrestling

“It is hard having to be the only senior on the team, being the only captain.

We’ve been wrestling all summer long,” said Williams, “I love competition. I hardly have to depend on anyone else but me. I’m the only one there. My hard work paid off.”

The bowling team are one of the diamonds in the rough in regards to the sports offered at Everett. Though often being overshadowed by other sports when it comes to the distribution of funds (they were not even spared a bus to use in their matches), Everett’s bowling team has one of the most skilled and dedicated athletes Everett has to offer. The technique of

bowling requires precision and consistency, only developed by hours and hours of practice. Experimenting with different balls, footwork, and arm movements fine tunes the technique of each individual bowler.

Nobody among the Vikings represents an ideal bowler quite like senior Tate Levendoski. Having bowled since he was eight, he’s a seasoned veteran among the bowlers on the team. He’s competitive and aspiring, wanting to reach greater heights his senior year.

Erin Arnold

suade individuals, particularly athletes who have just ended their fall sport, to join the swimming team. This four year swimmer finds enjoyment from pushing himself to his limits as well as the community that it provides.

Dennis Parker

The bitter chills of winter doesn’t stop Everett’s swim team from hopping into the pool. In years past, the swimming team had been notorious in having early morning practices before sunrise.

One can only imagine the drive it takes to consistently arrive at 4:30 practices in the morning, just to plunge into the cold waters. In fact, the pool’s water heater malfunctioned yet the team still jumped into the freezing water. Swimmers embody willpower, with a “do-until-you-die” mentality that pushes them hard both in meets and practices. Swimming is a sport of agility, technique, and endurance: attributes that senior Quy Ho embodies. This year he’s actively been attempting to per-

Bowling

“[I want] to make states as a senior. It’s fun. When you go just to play, it’s fun,” said Levendoski.

Basketball

Basketball, made famous by Everett’s alumnus and retired NBA Star Earvin “Magic” Johnson, is the most popular winter sport offered at Everett.The varsity basketball team is particularly selective when it comes to selecting its members Out of all of the athletes at Everett, basketball players are by far the most ambitious. The precedent that stars like Magic Johnson have set proved to aspiring athletes that success in basketball isn’t necessarily impossible. The Vikings have produced many talented players such as Trevor Manuel, who now plays for the Oregon Ducks in college basketball. Everett had always been home to many athletes, and this year is no exception. Jamyrin Jackson is one of the best players this year’s basketball team has to offer. He was given the honor of being varsity captain, taking the reigns to steer the team to victory this season.

“Being on the team is a good feeling. I have the role of being a leader this year so it's a big responsibility, and leading this team back to the Breslin is an amazing opportunity,” said Jackson.

The allure of basketball has always driven Jackson, taking it beyond a mere hobby. There is no questioning Jackson’s intense passion for basketball.

“Basketball means that I have an opportunity to go somewhere with my life, be someone and to not see my mom struggle or work anymore. Since I was two, I had a basketball in my hands. Basketball is my everything. It relaxes me & takes my mind off of any and everything,” said Jackson, “From scoring to defense to practice, to the fans screaming & cheering.

I love everything about the game of basketball.”

Dennis Parker

Swimming