The Voice: May 6, 2015

Voice The

your school. your voice.

Volume 54, Issue 4 May 6, 2015

page 7

Brianna Billard

HOOKAH HAZARDS

News

Dan Tran Reporter Juniors were relieved to finally finish the testing that had haunted them for months, the MME. This year, a new challenge approached in the form of the M-STEP, an assessment introduced this spring meant to analyze student growth. The M-STEP is given to students grades 3-8 as well as 11th graders, but specifically for 11th graders, it includes the rest of the MME in the form of state-developed tests.

The MME consists of the ACT, WorkKeys, and state-developed assessments in math, science, and social studies.

Some saw the test as punishment for already busy juniors to have even more dumped onto their plates.

Juniors, especially those who are taking AP classes, are getting a lot of work this time of year. But to some, the test itself isn’t a big deal in comparison to the ACT. “The stress is all about ACT and the M-STEP is really just secondary,” said junior Norina Yoder. “No one is

too worried about the score they get on it.”

Information about the M-STEP and the MME portion that came with it were very limited. Before spring break, students received little clear information about the M-STEP or ways to properly preparation for it.

Junior Kayla Dennings said that the test could have been presented to the juniors better. “[It seems] unorganized. teachers don’t know anything about it. [It is] horrible timing and we’re not doing anything to prepare for it, so that doesn’t help,” said Dennings.

Finishing the MME is a big hurdle finally completed. The second semester shelled out plenty of work towards juniors. Especially for those in AP classes who not only tried their best to finish all of the MME, but also finding the time to study and prepare for their AP tests which commence in May. At the same time, juniors also wanted to finish it as soon as possible so they could enjoy spring. For students like junior Michael Burch, the

MME was just something to get out of the way.

“I just want to get it over with,” said Burch. “Because testing stresses people out and spring time is typically used to mellow out, and not stress about much.”

The Michigan Merit portion of the MME is slightly different this year as a piece of the M-STEP. A pushback some had against the previous MME was its similar format to the ACT, consisting of mainly multiple choice. This year’s M-STEP encouraged more deep thinking and problem-solving as opposed to standard multiple choice questions to correctly analyze student growth better. It was also completely untimed. Algebra 2 and Senior Math teacher Deborah Carl prefers this format.

“It is a different test than the ACT, it’s more applied math. Sometimes there are multiple answers that are right, sometimes you have to fill in the blank. It’s kind of a newer version of what testing is going to be like. It’s good that we’re taking it this year,” said

Katrina Turner

Confusion, stress surrounds M-STEP testing

Directions for students hung on the mosaic in the lobby on all four testing days. The posters told students what days testing was, and also what and where testing locations were, and even the testing time depending on last name.

Carl. “The Michigan Merit part of the The tests were given to juniors to have 95% of juniors to take the full exams that we’ve always taken hasn’t the first and second weeks after spring MME. It’s a requirement to complete changed for years, and every thing had break on Tuesday the 14th, Thursday all three components of the MME to been multiple choice. Well in life ev- the 16th, Tuesday the 21st and Thurs- graduate, so attendance to all 4 days of erything isn’t multiple choice.” day the 23rd. The goal for Everett is the M-STEP is critical for students.

EV offers students chance to catch up

2 • The Voice • May 5, 2015 • myvikingvoice.com

Dan Tran Reporter

Noticeably during the third marking period, Everett has cracked down on hall sweeps. They happen nearly every hour. Students not in class by the time the bell rings, are locked out.

For the first half of the marking period, late students were simply caught and immediately sent back to class.

Recently however, students were given mandatory Saturday school for being late to class. Failure to attend Saturday school can result in a suspension of the absent student. The new procedures are controversial among a number of students. Many students feel rushed and are having trouble adapting to the strict schedule.

Saturday school is also an opportunity for students to catch up on work they miss. Attendees are allowed to listen to their music with their headphones and work at their own pace with the assistance of teachers.

Teachers give the attendees one on one assistance, as opposed to teaching a large mass of people, an alternative that could really help a student struggling. Even help with AP work is available.

New Tech Principal Marcelle Carruthers, who is spearheading the new changes, stresses that Saturday school is not a punishment. Saturday

school is open to all students.

“It’s truly academic support. We also use Saturday school for students have a tendency of showing up late,” said Carruthers. “So it’s two-fold. One for students who just want to come to Saturday school to catch up on work; we have teachers who are tutors. Another for those who have a tendency of being late or tardy to school, we actually assign them to Saturday school.

So the true sense is academic support, and that’s what we want for all students, so it’s available to anyone.”

A downside to these stricter hall sweep consequences, however, is that sometimes students who are normally on time get caught in the crossfire.

Senior Matthew Curry was late due to the long travel time between his classes.

“I was on the third floor like inches away from my class and as soon as the bell rung, security took me down to the cafeteria,” said Curry. “But I was coming from the band room.”

According to Curry, as a first time offender, he was let off with a warning. He has a 3.8 GPA, and does not normally show up late, but his example shows that some situations are truly out of the students’ control.

Inconveniences such as location of classes or extra time needed for putting away a band instrument or dressing in gym, can and have easily made

students like Curry late to class.

“Some people are probably late for reasons beyond their control and sending them to Saturday school isn’t going to help. Then there are those people who generally don’t care if they’re late or not, so Saturday school isn’t going to phase them either,” said Curry.

A common misconception of mandatory Saturday school, is that it can be assigned to any student caught in a hall sweep.

“What we try to do is… we have a list of students who, what we consider, are chronic. So [we] have a list, and we go by that list to determine whether or not that student is just allowed to go back to class with a note, or if that student should be better off going to Saturday school,” said Carruthers. “It truly is based on what we see: if a person has chronic tardiness.”

According to Carruthers, students who do show up have had a beneficial experience.

“The individuals that do show up to Saturday school do a wonderful job and have asked if they could come back the following week. It’s a different atmosphere, not your traditional classroom,” said Carruthers.

“It’s becoming something that’s pretty popular with students now who want to catch up.”

News

‘A truly Everett tradition’

Madison Brown presents a Rose to Ben Billings and Jon Wakeman during the presentation of Roses ceremony last year.

heavy,” said senior Crystal Robertson.

Seniors are allowed four roses that are priced at three dollars a piece; when you order roses you also write a note for each person to be read aloud at the ceremony. Just like there is a limit to the amount of roses students are allowed, there is also a limited word count for the notes, and they must include the person’s name and some sort of sentimental phrase or a simple thank you.

“I’m buying roses for my grandma, for Mrs. West and for another person who I haven’t chosen yet,” said senior Sarah LaVasseur.

Seniors have a hard decision to make when they narrow down the people they choose to honor. Some stick to family and friends, while some choose to honor those who helped them academically as well as personally.

The presentation of roses is an opportunity for seniors to honor the people who have made a notable influence on their lives, or have helped them. This year, the ceremony is held on May 19, and has been an Everett tradition for over 60 years.

The ceremony originated from a motherdaughter tea. The tea was for senior girls and their mothers to provide the girls an opportunity to express their gratitude. Over time it progressed into a ceremony hosted by the junior class officers where any senior student is encouraged to honor the people who have assisted them.

“I feel bad for the junior class officers who have to carry the roses because they were

Brianna Billard Editor-in-Chief

Many Everett seniors have been preparing for prom for the past few years. They haven’t been picking out a dress, tux or shoes, but fundraising, planning, and creating an awesome last dance for seniors.

On May 15, from 7 p.m. - 11 p.m., seniors and their dates will be partying it up at the MSU football stadium, celebrating their final days as high schoolers.

“Not to be cocky, but last year was OK; our prom is going to be way better,” said senior class president Thalia Esparza. “The location is great and the decorations are going to be nice too.”

Seniors voted on a theme towards the end of their junior year; the choices were Mardi

Gras, Cirque du Soleil, Great Gatsby, and the winning theme, Masquerade. Students are expected to wear masks, but it is not required.

There will be masks available at the door if students wish to have a mask but cannot afford one, or for any other reason.

“The masks (at the door) are all white and plain, but students should buy their own masks if they can,” said Esparza.

The class of 2015 has done a variety of fundraising, including T-shirt sales, penny wars, and holiday fundraisers, but working MSU concessions has been their biggest income.

"We have 7,000 in our account, but we still have basketball concession money coming,” said senior class advisor Sheila Orr. MSU stadium requires that you buy food with them for any event, along with the venue itself. An ice cream bar, fruit platters, and a

variety of dessert plates will be provided for students, along with unlimited drinks.

“I don’t think anyone really eats at prom, I don’t think people are going to stuff their face,” said senior Valeria Lopez.

Tickets will be sold every day in the morning and after school in the student store, as well as two weeks before prom in the cafeteria during lunch. Tickets will be $50 per person $90 for a couple.

“It could be a little lower, like $70. I guess it’s okay. They have to pay for prom somehow,” said senior Rhett Blackman.

It’s a senior only prom, but students may come if they are invited by a senior. If anyone wants to bring someone from a different school, you have to get a form to be filled out from Mrs. Siwek, and they can’t be more than 20 years old.

Chad Sanders

Seniors excited for ‘Masquerade’ prom

“They were the people who made the biggest impact on in my life, they pushed me to do my best and supported me,” said LaVasseur.

The junior class and the participating Everett staff put a lot of effort into the event.

They decorate the cafeteria, read the notes from the students, and make sure everything goes smoothly. During the actual ceremony, people who are being honored are escorted up to an archway where they meet with the senior who is honoring them, and then a reader reads the senior’s note.

The tradition is something that is exclusive to Everett, and is important to both staff, students, and parents.

“It is a truly Everett tradition,” said English teacher Robin Elliott.

Graduate Shaun Rosenberg busts some moves at prom, while his fellow classmates cheer him on.

Graduation plans take shape

Brianna Billard

Britani Gibson Reporter

2014 graduates cheer with excitement for the last time together during their graduation at the Eastern Field House.

Graduation is right around the corner and there is so much to be done. There are yet to be mandatory meetings for seniors about graduation and getting them the information they need. On April 15 there was a meeting during 3rd hour for seniors about how graduation will go.

“I think it’ll be the same as last year where students are provided with six tickets but can request more at the meeting on April 15,” said head secretary Juanita Kennedy. “We have so many graduates that we just have to do the math and figure it out.”

Graduation last year was at the field house. Many people said it was too crowded and hot in there, but that’s the best place to

hold the graduation because of the size.

“The field house will be decorated to look like Everett since it will be for Everett graduates. It will be decorated with red and white, and have the words “Everett” all over.

“Students might even forget they’re at the field house,” said Kennedy.

While the meetings about graduation are really helpful to students, so is visiting the Everett website and looking at the senior news.

Seniors should visit this website sometime after spring break to find out more.

“On the website under senior news, it will tell about wardrobe, what’s expected, where to meet, what time to be there, and updates on rehearsals,” said Kennedy.

Rehearsal is Friday, May 29 at 7 p.m., and graduation follows the next day at 2 p.m.

3 • The Voice • May 5, 2015 • myvikingvoice.com

Archives

Katrina Turner News Editor

News

Erin Arnold

Erin Arnold

5.

4.

Katrina Turner

3.

2.

1.

Katrina Turner

Katrina Turner

Katrina Turner

6.

8.

7.

4 • The Voice • May 5, 2015 • myvikingvoice.com

Alexa Johnson Reporter

Everett performing arts department hosted the annual Dance, Art, and Dessert Showcase. During the event, the dance department performed in the large auditorium while the art was displayed in the small auditorium and hallways. Cookies made by the dancers were set up on tables near the art gallery for people coming to enjoy the show and the event, the event raised money for costumes and art supplies.

The event has been put on for over 20 years, and is for anyone to come and enjoy.

“All dancers in the dance department will perform,” said dance teacher Karen Knaebel.

“All classes perform one or two dances and we also have solos duets and groups that made it into the show through an audition.”

Student artists enjoy participation in the showcase.

“It’s a good experience, and I love to dance,” said junior dancer Infinidy Ryan. “[Dance, Art, and Dessert] Is a great way to show the different talents of the dancers, and the [art] students of Everett.”

The dancers practiced hard everyday to perfect their dances, while the art students selected their best art to be shown. Students from all of Everett’s art classes displayed art of all types. The theme this year was roosters, hens, and chicks. “[We work in] as many different mediums

as we can get our hands on,” said art teacher Pam Collins.

Self portraits as well as portraits of the dancers that were drawn by the art students were displayed as well.

“A ton of pieces the art classes have done through the year will be shown in the event,” said junior Markina Nguyen, who is in Art Studio.

Both teachers and students in Everett’s art and dance programs have put copious amounts of time and effort into the show. It is held as one of Everett’s top arts shows of the year.

“It’s going to be a great show,” said Knaebel.

Katrina Turner

Annual Dance/Art showcase a success

Katrina Turner

Erin Arnold

9.

1. Junior Chloe Anderson presents senior Matthew Curry with a ‘love letter’ during their dance “Dear Future Husband” by Meghan Trainor. The class, tap two, performed the dance during Dance, Art, and Dessert.

2. Sophomore Tavionnia Gray performs her solo “No Time for Time”.

3. Senior Jarred Thompson performs his solo “Worthy”.

4. Sophomore Roberta Glennon-Rule views the art with David Summers.

5. From sketches of dragons, to randomized patterns, to famous persons, the art students showcase their talents during Dance, Art, and Dessert.

6. Junior Briana Ellerbee sets up the dessert table before the showcase.

The dancers brought in treats to sell at the showcase to raise money for costumes and art supplies 7. Senior Rama Hoskins performs her solo “Done”. Hoskins used a flower as a prop throughout the dance, picking it up towards the beginning and throwing it away from herself towards the end symbolizing giving up on her love.

8. Junior Austin Reed and Becca Hartley take in the art.

9. Dance Company performs their opening dance “Hard Knock Life”, a hip hop version of the original song from the musical “Annie”. The dance company also performed the dance at the ‘March is reading month’ assembly.

OPINION Your Voice

Voice The

The M-STEP test may need to take a step down

Headphones help students focus In many classrooms at Everett High School, teachers take away phones and headphones if they see them out. We should be able to wear headphones in class.

It is a very big issue here at Everett for students to be wearing headphones in the classrooms and in the hallways. If the music helps us focus better, and our cell phones are away, why not? Teachers should understand that most students can’t focus if every other student in the classroom is talking and off task.

Some teachers allow their students to wear headphones in class, as long as you can’t hear the music. If the teacher isn’t teaching anymore and students are just doing assignments, or it’s a work day; why can’t we wear our headphones?

THE STAFF EDITORS Brianna Billard (Editor-in-Chief) Katrina Turner (News) Nick Pine (Opinion) Salma Torres (Features) Antonio Bermudez (Entertainment) Erin Arnold (Sports) Veronika Sarkisova (Photo Story) Kaley McEnhill (Online) Celaina Boylan-Castilla (Social Media) Cynthia Hunter (Business Manager) Chase Rapin (Photo)

It’s very understandable that teachers and administrators feel like the headphones are a distraction to the learning and should be put away. But, there are times when they are needed and could really help out.

Students should be able to wear headphones during class and in the hallways. Administrators need to realize sometimes headphones are a good thing and could improve some students grades. Let us wear the headphones!

Yaniah Simmons, 17’

Everett is ready for closed campus lunch Sabrina Martin Reporter

The school district has not allowed us to leave campus to go get lunch. We are less than a mile away from McDonalds, Wendy’s, Burger King and a lot of fast food places. It does not take that long for students who have cars to drive there and back and still be on time to class. There are also students who live down the street and could walk home for lunch. The school lunch is not all that healthy so going to get McDonalds would not make much difference. It will also be good for students to leave campus because then the lunch lines won’t be so crowded and it won’t take a long time to get lunch for the students that want school lunch.

“I think having an open campus for our school would be great, because Everett used to have an open campus and If they could trust those students to leave campus than they should be able to trust us,” says senior Thalia Morales.

It’s a great idea, and I think more students should try and talk to the principal or the school board about it.

REPORTERS Nakia Drane Madinah Johnson Sabrina Martin Dan Tran Julia Montes Morgan Whitby Alexandra Johnson Dennis Parker Britani Gibson

OUR VOICE:

Everyone should recycle Earth day was April 22. Worldwide events were held to demonstrate support for environmental protection.

Some people who only participate in activities to help the Earth on this day, but there are easy ways people can participate every single day. One simple way to help is to recycle. Examples of simple recycling that doesn’t take much effort is recycling the paper of the Voice.

Recycling newspaper can save about 75,000 trees. The more waste is put into landfills the bigger the problem gets, so keeping paper out of the landfills is just one way that recycling helps the environment. Waste in landfills makes gases as it rots and that can lead to pollution in the environment. Reducing the items in the landfills will help to reduce the pollution that it causes.

Recycling helps preserve our natural resources. Imagine all the trees that are cut for paper and wood. If we recycle paper like newspapers and books, we can save more trees on earth. Recycling products is extremely important so that we can help preserve our natural resources- from trees to minerals. If we continue to waste our resources, we will end up with having nothing.

Saving energy can be easy as well,

and not only can you save energy but you can save money as well. Plastic garbage thrown into the ocean kill as many as 1,000,000 sea creatures every year .

When you leave appliances plugged in like TVs, coffeemakers, lamps, toasters and phone chargers you’re wasting energy and money, even if they’re not turned on. You can simply unplug these appliances and save energy and money.

By saving energy we can enjoy cleaner air and a healthier environment.

What do you do with your pop cans? You can go to a store (Kroger, Meijer, Walmart) and recycle your cans of pops and even get ten cents for every pop can you put in the reverse vending machine. If you’re at school, most teachers have a box for bottles.

The money raised from the deposit goes to the junior class.

Recycling in Lansing is super-easy.

You have a recycle bin to put your bottle, paper, etc. in. You put it by the road on trash day. The city picks it up, and even sorts everything for you.

Next time you go to throw that milk bottle or cereal box away, stop and put it in your recycle bin instead. If everyone makes a small change like that, it will make a huge difference.

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.

5 • The Voice • May 5, 2015 • myvikingvoice.com

For a while now, it has been required for juniors to take the ACT and MME, but for the school year of 2014-2015, Michigan has introduced a new test, the M-STEP. Having this new test may not be the best idea. It takes a lot of the juniors’ time and does not seem to have the best material.

After taking the ACT in early March, the juniors have to prepare to take yet another test the week after returning from Spring Break.

This can be very exhausting and the fact that it takes place throughout three separate days near the end of the school year means students have to miss important class time.

For students with AP classes, it becomes hard to pick up all the material. With the AP exams so close, many are missing valuable review time. In AP government, review is going on during the weeks of testing and with most of the class being juniors, how can it be affective?

It even seems the material on the test is ridiculous. Students said that one question had two categories, “day” and “night” and with that you were given word choices such as “sunshine” and “moon”. Students had to place the word under the correct category.

This sounds a little too simple, and maybe there is something being tested we do not understand, but teachers have said some students who saw those questions decided it was not even important enough and put their heads down.

True, the State needs to test schools on their academic success, but the M-STEP may not be the best way. The old way, just the twoday MME was more efficient. It took place right after the ACT, and then it was over.

The state needs to think more about the testing paths they are taking and select the one that would really measure the students’ skills most accurately.

Sara Aljazi, ‘15

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

OPINION

Jessica Arnold 11

Julia Tominski 8

“It’s still bad for you because it’s still tobacco, and I heard it has more tar. I don’t think it’s a good pastime for students. They could be spending their time doing something better, like being outside or being actual teenagers. They could be playing video games, or doing something that doesn’t harm your body.”

“I’m pretty sure it’s a pipe and there’s multiple people smoking out of it. I don’t think it’s weed, but maybe some type of plant or drug. I imagine that if people do it, it must have a good effect on them. It must be an effect that people enjoy. You probably have to be 21, that’s the age everyone gets to do everything, like drinking and stuff.”

Orlando Balcarcel

Sheila Orr

New Tech teacher

chemistry teacher “It’s a smoking lounge for men, because

“I know that it’s a tobacco based product that you smoke with a hookah, and you can go to a hookah lounge if you’re 18. They come in tons of different flavors. Younger kids smoking is not good, you’re putting chemicals in your body, and it’s not done growing or developing yet. But honestly, I think smoking is gross anyway.”

culturally that’s where that tradition came from. It’s an individual choice [to smoke hookah]. The opinion of the parents has much more weight than mine. It’s no worse than chewing tobacco or smoking cigarettes.

However, we live in America for personal choice.

Deveontye Brown 10

Ariel Vidlun 12

6 • The Voice • May 5, 2015 • myvikingvoice.com

“I do it. I smoke and go with my friends, I just use the pens though. It’s a healthier alternative to cigarettes. They should card at Mikho’s though, we have a law in place for a reason. I also don’t think it has an effect on a younger body rather than an older one, it affects it in the same way. I just think some people might go overboard with hookah when they go every weekend.”

I know that hookah has tobacco and if you inhale it, you could die. I mean, people die when they smoke cigarettes, and cigarettes have smoke, just like how hookah has smoke. And you probably have to be 18 to smoke it because kids shouldn’t do it. It’s not good for kids to smoke anything, period.

You could die in a few months or a year if you inhale it when you’re so young.”

LET’S TALK ABOUT Brianna Billard Editor-in-Chief

HOOKAH

My Voice: Hookah is relaxing and a fun time Dennis Parker Reporter

You walk in the double doors and see the chill, lighted room where a DJ, a white man in his 20s, stands as still as the tall, glass hookahs throughout the room. Laser lights, red carpet and multiple tables and couches set a mood for relaxation. You walk through the main room and see pool tables and the counter to order your hookah. You make your way through the crowd of people walking back and forth from the tables and couches, trying to see what friends and neighbors are up to. Most people are smoking hookah, or just having fun. The close room smells like someone just spilled fruit drinks all over, and the smoke is almost like a fog; you can see, but not to the other side of the room.

Some people see hookah as a bad drug-like substance, but according to hookah smokers, it’s relaxing and makes you pretty mellow. Some people also think hookah costs a fortune, but it’s actually pretty cheap. If you go with a couple of people, five bucks a piece will get you one that will last you about three hours, with flavors like strawberry watermelon, raspberry jolly rancher, and so many others. You can even just go and chill without smoking hookah.

People come from everywhere. This past Friday, there were people from Eaton Rapids, Waverly, Sexton, and Dewitt at the hookah lounge. You can have fun just meeting a lot of new people and dance to the music, eat, or smoke on a hookah. You can take a shot at smoke tricks, or just sit and talk with your group. Blowing Os is a favorite for many people. Around the room, you can see smokers trying to shoot an O-shaped smoke cloud out of their mouths. Others blow smoke out their nose and mouth to create other shapes and effects.

The couches are comfortable, and you can just put your hookah on the table and lay back and chill and laugh all night. One hookah will last at least three hours; if you have more than one, you’re going to be good for the night.

There are health issues related to hookah.

Even with the herbal varieties, you are inhaling carbon dioxide, and with tobacco-based shisha, you are inhaling high levels of nicotine. Some who smoke hookah are aware of the risks, but do it anyhow. They argue that people could be doing worse things, like smoking crack and shooting Heroin. You can inhale diesel fumes from just standing at the CATA station. When Laura de la Rambelje from the Michigan De-

partment of Community Health talked to The Voice about hookah, I tried to get her to say that there were situations where hookah wasn’t that bad for you. She wouldn’t say that there ever was a time where smoking hookah wouldn’t harm you in some way.

She said that if you’re inhaling smoke, it’s bad for you, period.

I think if you’re bored and just want to chill and waste a couple hours for cheap, you can hit up the hookah. While many hookah lounges require you to be 18, Mikho’s Lounge lets students 17 and up come in.

This is because they serve nontobacco hookah. Which, as my editors and Laura de la Rambelje want me to make clear, can still be bad for you.

Students unaware of ‘herbal’ hookah chemicals Nick Pine Opinion Editor

Hookah lounges are on the rise in the United States. In the Lansing area, hookah lounges are a popular spot to hang out for many college and high school students.

“I can go and chill with friends and have a good time,” said senior Mikayla Dowell.

A hookah is a large water pipe with a long tube connected to a glass bowl filled with water or sometimes dry ice. The dry ice is put in the base of the hookah upon request to make thicker smoke clouds. Shisha, the name for the mixture placed at the top of the hookah pipe, is tobacco often soaked in molasses or honey and mixed with fruit.

Hydro Herbal Shisha is a tobacco-free, nicotine-free, non-addictive alternative in hookah smoking. It is made with sugar cane fiber and ground up mint leaves, but still contains flavoring. Some see herbal hookah as a lessharmful alternative to cigarettes, but it still contains cancer-causing chemicals such as glycerin and nicotine.

When your hookah is brought to you the shisha is covered with foil, and burning coal is placed over top of that.

One main reason in why people love smoking hookah is the ability to make thick smoke clouds. The reason why you get big clouds when you smoke hookah is because of glycerin. Glycerin is one of the main ingredi-

ents in shisha next to tobacco, molasses, and flavoring, and it creates thick vapor when heated. This chemical takes moisture out of the air, helping to keep the shisha moist, and helping you blow big smoke clouds. When inhaled, the smoke travels through the water then up the long tube.

There are many concerns over the health and safety of smoking hookah. Some people say they only go to the hookah lounge to hang out or chill with friends, but even if you’re just going and not smoking the hookah you are still being exposed to secondhand smoke. Believe it or not, there is also such thing as third hand smoking.

“Third hand smoking is the residue left on your body after being around someone smoking, or being around someone smoking, being in a room or house where who ever lived there first was a smoker,” said Laura de la Rambelje, public health consultant at Michigan Department of Community Health.

The cleanliness of hookahs has been questioned, as well. According to de la Rambelje, the only way a hookah can become totally clean is if it is put through an autoclave, a pressure cham-

ber used to sterilize equipment and supplies. Many unregulated hookah lounges do not have such equipment for sterilizing hookahs between uses.

Another risk that is talked about is e-cigs or hookah pens. People seem to think that smoking these is less dangerous than cigarettes or shisha.

“E-cig refill fluid can cause serious illness if taken straight to your lips or mouth, this fluid can kill toddlers and infants,” said de la Rambelje.

There are no laws against minors buying e-cigs unless the place they are buying from prohibits it. The cost of a trip to the hookah lounge can vary depending on how many people you are with and how much your friends are paying. Standard shisha flavors to get for your hookah ideally cost ten dollars, if you’re looking for a little more flavorful choice you can pay an extra three or four dollars for an exotic flavor.

Hookah filled with nicotine puts public at risk Chase Rapin Photo Editor Smoking Hookah is becoming increasing popular with young adults. According to the Center for Disease Control, about 1 in 5 high school boys (17%) and 1 in 6 high school girls (15%) had smoked hookah in the past year in the US. Although it is gaining popularity, alarming studies show that smoking Hookah can be extremely hazardous to your body.

Tobacco Hookah The tobacco used in Hookah has many of the same health risks as smoking cigarettes. The tobacco itself has several toxic agents that can and will eventually cause bladder, lung, and oral cancers. This toxic smoke can cause clogged arteries and heart disease.

The charcoal used to burn the tobacco produces high levels of carbon monoxide, metals, and cancer-causing chemicals. During a typical hookah smoking session, participants inhale more carbon monoxide than someone who smokes a pack or more a day of conventional cigarettes. Even after the smoke has passed through the water, the toxic chemicals of the hookah tobacco and charcoal are still present.

Non-tobacco Hookah Non-tobacco hookah is commonly known as “herbal hookah”. It is usually considered a healthy alternative. But studies of tobacco-based shisha and “herbal” shisha show that smoke from both preparations contain carbon monoxide and other toxic agents known to increase the risks for smoking-related cancers, heart disease, and lung disease. This means herbal

hookah is not a “healthy” option. Herbal hookah is burned using the same charcoal as hookah tobacco, which means your body is exposed to the same harsh chemicals found in the charcoal. Even though all the smoke passes through water, the smoker still inhales these harmful chemicals.

Will you get addicted to hookah?

Smoking hookah is considered by many to be less addictive than smoking cigarettes, but that belief is extremely untrue, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The average hookah session lasts for an hour or longer. The nicotine found in hookah tobacco isn’t filtered through the water, which means your body is exposed to more nicotine than regular cigarettes. Nicotine is one of the addictive chemicals found in cigarette tobacco. The smoker inhales 100 - 200 times the smoke of a cigarette per hookah session, which means the lungs can be exposed to more nicotine than a pack of cigarettes. Research teams at Wayne State University believe hookah could hold dangerous health implications, including serving as a gateway to cigarette smoking and other drug use.

7 • The Voice • May 5, 2015 • myvikingvoice.com

FEATURES

If you’re unsure if you’re smoking tobacco, ask the waiter or manager if it is herbal. But if they aren’t being truthful there will be no way to tell. Currently, hookah lounges are not regulated by the health department; there really is no easy way to tell what you’re smoking.

Hookah is not only a good way to get cancer, but a good way to get sick. Even though most hookah lounges give the smokers small plastic mouthpieces, it’s extremely easy to contract a virus from fellow smokers. Diseases such as herpes, tuberculosis, and helicobacter pylori travel through smoke you inhale. If not properly sterilized, these diseases can even be left in the hookah from smokers before your group.

Features

Overcoming depression: serious illness Illustration by Erika Wentworth

affects millions, help is available Sabrina Martin Reporter

The names of the students in this story have been changed, since they are minors.

Freshman Marcus Roy said he feels as if nobody is there for him, or to even listen to him. Even family makes it tough on him.

When he’s

picked on, he feels that family members don’t do anything to stop it. Not really knowing what to do, he cuts himself multiple times on his arm to make the pain feel better. When he cuts himself he feels pain in his arm and forgets the pain that he’s actually feeling. He tries to hide the cuts by wearing long sleeves.

This depression makes Marcus feel insecure about himself.

“I didn’t feel great inside; I have a mental illness,” said Roy. “It’s like no matter what I do these suicidal thoughts don’t go away.”

One afternoon when Marcus was deep in this depression, he found a knife and stabbed himself in the stomach and side over and over again. I

Forensics class gives CSI crash course 8 • The Voice • May 5, 2015 • myvikingvoice.com

Salma Torres Features Editor

Don’t know which science class to take next year? Forensics is a class for any junior or senior who needs a third science credit or even to just take for an elective. “[It’s a] very hands on class and great for anyone interested in any field of science as well as criminal law, and it’s lots of fun!” said Forensics and Biology teacher Heather Clark.

The topics they go over throughout the year are careers in forensics, crime science basics (CSI), blood spatter analysis (Dexter), famous crime and case studies, forensics anthropology and human remains (Bones), DNA, impression evidence, handwritten analysis and forensics, hair and fabrics, fingerprints, toxicology: drugs, alcohol and poison.

For final exams, Clark has a crime scene where students photograph, make crime scene sketches and collect and analyze all evidence.

“I love that class. I think that I like the atmosphere the most. And how simple the work is yet you learn a lot,” said junior Ana Guerrero. “Not to mention Mrs.Clark is a great teacher.”

Guerrero wasn’t the only one to think Clark is a great teacher.

“Mrs. Clark is just a really good and nice teacher,” said ju-

nior Sabrina Wallace. “If you’re actually interested in forensics it’s an easy A.” Still not convinced? Clark says some of the students’ favorite things to learn are lifting prints from evidence, autopsies, and skeletal remains.

“We dusted our fingerprints on glass and pop bottles,” Wallace talks about lifting prints, “we put tape over them so the print would be on the tape and then lifted the tape to get the fingerprint on it.”

Students learn throughout the year and enjoy working in the classroom.

“It’s something new and I learn new stuff, I didn’t know we all had different fingerprints,” said junior Markeese Reynolds.

“It’s a class I never took before and I like the experience and its a nice learning environment and I can understand it easily.”

Reynolds said that being able to understand isn’t the only reason he likes the class.

“I just like the class because the teacher, she’s a great teacher to work with,” said Reynolds.

Students enjoy the class and definitely recommend taking it. ”It’s really fun, students should sign up for it, they won’t regret it!” said Junior Ruth Becerril.

want to die, he thought. Nobody’s going to care anyway. They say they do, but they really don’t.

After stabbing himself, he took seven pills of Seroquel that he had gotten from the bathroom cabinet in his house. Marcus was found unconscious by his grandma.

The doctors told him that he had gone into a coma when he was in the ambulance.

Depression can make you think mad thoughts, or sad thoughts, or just different emotions, says website helpguide.org “It makes me feel less of a person.

Like one day I’ll disappear and won’t matter anymore,” said Roy. Depression is a serious problem; the Mayo Clinic website says that it can affect your appetite. It changes the way you act towards people, or you can be moody.

“Research shows the most effective treatment is medication and therapy,” counselor Cynthia Swartz said.

Many people deal with depression. According to healthline.com, 121 million people around the world deal with depression.

“They need to ask for help [to get better], and they should keep asking,” says Swartz. “You shouldn’t be afraid of telling people your thoughts and how you feel.”

You can go to your counselor, a doctor or even go to friends that have been through depression.

“I have gone through depres-

sion, but I’m not anymore,” says sophomore Morgan Cane. “I used to feel uncomfortable with myself and the fact that I was gay, but I overcame myself because I accepted who I was and so did my real friends.”

Marcus is now getting help, is on medication and he talks to a counselor. He also talks to friends that are there to listen.

According to psychcentral.com, Marcus is doing all of the right things. You can go to your family doctor, mental health specialist, employee assistant program, community mental health centers and many more places to get help with depression.

Marcus is currently getting help from his social worker, Kate. His attitude is positive, and he is looking ahead with an understanding that his condition is treatable, and can be overcome.

“Everything is going good; although you’ll have tough times in life they’ll go away,” said Roy. Social worker Holly Triestram said Everett counselors deal with a couple of serious situations a month.

“We have a large number of students dealing with clinical depression or situational depression. Students should seek out resources, because there are people available,” said Triestram. “Sometimes students don’t want to come for help because they think we are going to tell other people, but we keep everything confidential.”

Features

Zach Surdenik Sabrina Martin Reporter

Z

ach Surdenik is a 7th grader at Everett who participates in a lot of activities. His mother is the eighth grade English teacher at Everett New Tech High.

“He’s one of our ambassadors. He’s a person we use to greet guests in the building or take kids on tours,” said his mom Mrs. Jackie Surdenik. “He played a lead role in the Robin Hood play and he is also performing for The Wiz.” His teachers say that he is always busy, and an outstanding student.

“I think my schedule is busy but I’m used to it,” said Zach.

He is really looking forward to high school so he can participate fully in the activities. Quiz bowl is a team of people and they practice trivia questions. It is really competitive.

“Practicing with them is [fun], but I would love to actually be able to compete for quiz bowl or play in the games for baseball,” said Zach. “Mr. Billings is going to let me keep score for the JV baseball team.”

Zach’s classmates think he is a really good actor and that he’s famous.

“I’ve been into acting since I was young and I enjoy it,” says Surdenik “This school is good for performing arts [so that’s why I chose to go here].”

Outside of school, Zach is really involved in his church.

“We go to The South Church Of The Nazarene,” said Mrs. Jackie Surdenik. “He’s active in the youth group and sings solos in church.”

Besides being active in church, Zach plays on the Mavericks basketball team. When he becomes a high schooler he hopes to participate in all the things he does now but actually get noticed because right now he’s not exactly a part of the team. “[Zach] will probably be the top three scorers by the time he reaches his senior year in high school. He’s getting better and you learn and experience the more you practice,” says sophomore Ali Aljazi, who is on the quiz bowl team.

Even teachers think highly of Zach because of his activities that he participates in.

9 • The Voice • May 5, 2015 • myvikingvoice.com

Antonio Bermudez

“[Zach] will probably be [one of] the top three scorers by the time he reaches his senior year in high school.”

-Ali Aljazi

Entertainment

EV Alumn Dat Hoang: Aspiring Model Erin Arnold Sports Editor

When you graduate high school, most people have some type of plan for where they want to be at in the next 5-10 years. Former Everett student Dathias Hoang, class of 2008, is an aspiring model. When he thought about his future, he did not think that he would be where he is today.

“My five-year plan was to graduate high school, get into MSU, graduate from there and work at an advertising agency,” said Hoang. “I never thought about becoming a model or working with some of my favorite brands through my blog. I took a chance after college and moved to NYC to pursue my dream. Now I am living it.”

Hoang didn’t know he wanted to be a model until after he got out of college.

“I don’t remember wanting to be a model while I was in college. I was too busy with classes and playing on the soccer/tennis team to even think about being a model,” said Hoang. “I got a few friends that are photographers and they needed models for photo shoots and they asked me to do it. I enjoyed being in front of the camera and

H&M

from there on I just continued with it.”

Hoang has a blog called Modern Man Journal (modernmanjournal.com), where he talks about fashion.

“After graduating college I decided to get serious with it what I enjoyed doing which is blogging,” said Hoang.

“I would constantly take photos of my everyday outfits and upload it on my blog and social media. From there, brands started recognizing what I do and wanted to work with me.”

Hoang is a digital marketer. He does public relations for the Barbarian Agency and at Darkoh Menswear.

Hoang says that he loves what he does and it also helps him build up his modeling career.

“Digital marketing is what I do as my career,” said Hoang. “I love it and I use it to promote myself as a brand.”

Hoang defines fashion in his own words.

“Fashion is being able to express yourself and not caring what others think.”

When it comes to looking “fashionable”, Hoang doesn’t spend that much money to look the part.

“My fashion blog [motto] is ‘shop smart, look expensive’. It’s about finding deals from stores and putting together a look that makes you feel and look expensive but

overall the whole look cost you under $50,” said Hoang.

Hoang has a favorite places that he likes to get his clothes from.

“I get my clothes from brands and designers that wants to work with me. I frequently get gifted a lot of stuff to wear and blog about,” said Hoang,” Some of my favorite brands are Calvin Klein, Lacoste, Perry Ellis, Topman, Uniqlo, and Darkoh.”

Hoang has done different modeling jobs for people throughout his modeling career.

“I haven’t been in any fashion shows yet but I have been featured in online magazine,” said Hoang. ”Although I haven’t been in fashion shows I was invited [to attend] several shows during New York Fashion Week.”

When it comes to spring fashion for high schoolers, Hoang doesn’t have a prescribed wardrobe. “[High schoolers should dress] casual. You guys are young and should dress in whatever you feel comfortable in,” said Hoang.

There is a limit to his definition of “comfortable,” though. There are a few things that Hoang says students can change about their spring look.

“No more gym shorts or sweats. Leave those for the

gym or lounging at home,” said Hoang.” I feel like everyone should at least put effort into making themselves feel better by looking good. When you look good, you feel good.”

Modeling is an everyday thing for Hoang. “[I model] everyday. You don’t really stop being a model. It’s a hustling game and you got to always be on top of it and make sure that everything you do is top notch,” said Hoang.”

There are always someone who can do better than you at a lower price. It is all business.”

You may be wondering how Hoang did it. How did a regular person that graduated from Everett High School become so successful.

“I just followed my dreams. I wanted to be in fashion and I wanted to model so I just went and make it happen for myself,” said Hoang.

Before moving to New York, Hoang never had been there before and didn’t know anyone there but that didn’t stop him from doing what he wanted to do.

“I never give up on myself on my dreams. I just kept on going. I got rejected several times and shot down many times, but I kept at it and never gave up.”

Sears, 2 for $20

Forever 21

JC Penney, $50

HM, $2 H&M

H&M

H&M, $29

F21, $24

Top Shop

Forever 21

JC Penney, $50

10 • The Voice • May 5, 2015 • myvikingvoice.com

Antonio Bermudez Entertainment Editor Meet Our Models: Na Dilai has been interested in fashion since before she could remember. To her, fashion isn’t just about what you wear, but the story behind it. She has always

Sears, $30

Journeyz

been filled with creativity and wears outfits based on her mood. She doesn’t know if she wants to pursue a career in fashion because it’s very competitive and Na is not a very competitive person. She has insecurities like the rest of us. Her self-esteem affects her wanting to model. She just wants to create new looks and be different, it’s not about the brand of the clothing, it’s about the way you

put it together.

“Good Will has the most unique outfits ever and if you’re really fashionable you can find something really ugly and make it into something hot,” said Junior Dilai.

Roberta Glennon-Rule has participated in beauty pageants since she was a child and stopped 6th grade year.

After that a scout asked her to work with Victor’s Na-

tional Modeling Agency in Chicago. She’d like modeling to be her future occupation, but it’s hard when you don’t fit all of the requirements. She’s not really concerned with competition because there are many different types of modeling. When Roberta gets dressed it depends on what she’s doing for that day, but she never dresses down. She has never worn sweatpants or yoga pants to school.

make way for the next best thing. Trends from past decades are reborn and made popular again and will undoubtedly fade out. Multiple trends can be out at once and that creates diversity and individuality between people. Some people could rock skater skirts and crop tops while others wear crop jeans and flannels. Trends never remain the same.

sleeves became more fitted for women’s dresses. As for the men, they wore breeches and tail coats with toned down embellishment. Powdered wigs accompanied both men and women.

small heeled shoes. The 50s and 60s were a whirl of poodle skirts and shorter skirts. Men wore fitted suits and cardigans. The 70s, 80s, and 90s fashions were always changing.

Flower Power in the 70s turned into big hair and neon in the 80s. The 90s were all about windbreakers, high tops, and high waisted jeans.

Fashion isn’t new, but has been evolving for centuries Celaina Boylan-Castilla Social Media Editor

Fashion has played a major role in society for centuries, and will undoubtedly continue to play an important role.

Fashion has changed throughout the decades in subtle and big ways. From “flower power” in the 1970s to backwards caps in the 1990s, fashion is always evolving and never-ending. Fashion is a popular trend that frequently changes.

Fashion is always changing to meet the newest trends and to keep up with what’s coming. Retailers and designers work consistently to provide for customers the newest fashions to please the public. One week, skater skirts could be the hottest trend and flying off the shelves and the next they are on a rack in the back of the store overshadowed by new pencil skirts. Trends and styles leave as quick as they come to

1700s In the 1700s, the biggest fashions were big petticoats and buckled loafers. Women wore corsets on a daily basis and for men, their coats could never be long enough. Full sleeves accompanied the women’s full skirts and men wore durable shoes fashioned with a silver buckle.

1800s In the 1800s the petticoats became narrower and the

1900s In the 1900s, fashion changed drastically. In 1910 silk dresses were very popular for women and men wore large top hats with heavy coats. In the 20s’ men wore fitted suits and women wore fitted dresses down to the knee. Caps accompanied both ensembles throughout the decade. In the 30s’ women’s clothes became even more fitted and the female form returned. Men wore baggy trousers that ended below the knee and wool caps. The 1940s were a simple time for fashion and clothing became simpler. Men wore dress pants and shirts and women wore plain dresses with

The 2000s The 2000s have continued to change. Styles have become simpler and some styles have been brought back and made popular again. Body suits were popular in the 80s and have been brought back into style. Skater skirts and crop tops have been a huge trend along with numerous other clothing trends. Combat boots made a comeback along with overalls. Different styles have come and gone throughout the years and will continue to change with every new trend.

#

MyViking VOICE

Theme: Animals

@KRYSTOEEJEWELL

Entertainment Cynthia Hunter Business Manager

Say goodbye to cold mounds of snow and say hello to the warm rays of sunshine. Summer is coming, giving everybody time to kick back, and relax.

Transitioning from our busy school schedule to having almost nothing to do can be tough.

No worries, there are plenty of awesome activities awaiting us.

Many people just like to bask in the sun by a nice pool, or find comfort in sinking their feet into the sand of a pretty beach. “[I enjoy] swimming, and tanning, just being in the sun,” said junior KeResha Pearson.

There is always Hawk Island, that offers a tanning area, a park for all ages, and a little Splash Pad for toddlers that is safety proof with a little beach also. If that doesn’t s e e m appealing to you, there i s always Lake Lansing, which has a sandy beach area, and a vast grassy area to have picnics. They also give t h e option to go Paddle Boating for under 10 dollars.

Being tan or sunburned is almost a given this time of year, so be sure to always wear sunscreen. There

are many risks and pains that come with going out in the sun unprotected. Minor things like dryness, and rash to the more extreme dangers such as skin cancer and damage to the eyes are always things to look out for.

Some enjoy staying in and just enjoying the downtime they have with their families in the summer.

Summer Fun “ I like to play basketball and chill with my family,” said freshman Deveyon Clark.

To others, going out with friends and having fun is the best way to spend summer.

“My idea of summer fun is relaxing and hanging out with friends,” said junior Jessica Arnold.

Another great idea is to get away from your usual setting and out into the world for a change. Using this spare time to do everything you were forced to push

farther into your already busy schedule is a great and healthy idea. Summer gives you the opportunity to join clubs and experience new activities without having to worry about time constraints.

There are summer workshops f o r things like wilderness training, and day camps that are useful, and fun for all ages.

“I also think going to concerts, going to the beach, and going on road trips are summer fun,” said Arnold There are endless things to do to keep you occupied. Whether you are hanging out at the b a s ketb a ll court with friends, watching a movie with family, or just relaxing in the sun - every opportunity of spare time given to you, can be put to good, fun use. Catching up on rest, and bringing on a TV series that you missed in the midst of your stack of homework are totally acceptable as well.

The summer is made for d e stressing, so it’s best to take advantage of this gift. Everybody needs time to relax and clear their minds to prepare for the start of the year. Doing this will give you a chance to enter the end of summer with a calm mindset and a well thought-out plan.

@Aliviapulido Submit photos using #myvikingvoice, the next theme will be Senior transformation from grade 9-12.

@arinlovesu

11 • The Voice • May 5, 2015 • myvikingvoice.com

@Marissa17_

SPORTS

The boys are sitting on the benches with their shoulders just slightly hunched over, and their heads turned down. The locker room in the Breslin Center feels abnormally quiet, like you could hear a basketball hit nothing but the Spartan net, even from here. It’s halftime during the State semifinal basketball game, the Vikings are trailing the Saginaw Arthur Hill Lumberjacks by three points, and you can see the anxiousness on the players faces.

“This ain’t no where near the best team we’ve played,” said head coach Desmond Ferguson. “This is something we’ve been working for all year. Trust your teammate, and trust the process.”

Senior starter Marvin Wright said that they need to step up their defense.

Ferguson agreed.

“They get too many second chance points,” said Ferguson.

Ferguson knew that the next four minutes were going to be the most important basketball moments for the young men’s high school careers.

As the players re-entered the court, the Lansing crowd yelled and cheered for their Viking boys.

“It’s a really good feeling to have come this far with all the tragedies the Vikings have gone through,” said senior cheerleader Ziquariah Williamson. “I love my team, and I can speak for all cheerleaders when I say that.”

However, even with all of the love that the basketball team received, they fell back at the end of the third quarter, 58-45.

“It’s the little things man, nothing major,” said Ferguson. “You just have to remember that it’s not a one on one game.”

Throughout the rest of the game, the city fans stayed strong. While keeping up with the traditional cheers and signs, the band kept the crowd pumped up as well.

“I hope the boys know that they have the band, student section, and the school’s support,” said sophomore drum major Charles Timms II.

Weeks before the game, the Viking basketball team started to get more publicity for the games they’d been playing, and the record they had built up. Local radio station 96.5 WQHH even started promoting the boys’ games, while congratulating the team, and coach Ferguson.

“I thought it was really cool that the city and 96.5 was giving them the recognition that they deserve,” said senior Kendra McFadden.

Local Big Reds, Quakers, and Chiefs came to the Breslin Center to support the Lansing team. Some fans have even been to pre-playoff games, following Vikings down the road to success.

“I only got to go to a couple of games here and there but from what I've seen, as the games continued, it was easy to spot the heart that they put on the court,” said Okemos senior Arleen Nguyen. “The games got more intense and even more exciting to come to.”

Although making free throws, putting up good defense, and following the plays are important, so is depending on your team, and making your school proud.

“The joy we bring to the city is great.

Keep having fun and keep smiling,” said Ferguson to his team before the game began.

Ferguson asked all of the boys before the game what their goals were and what they strived for. The answers varied from winning the state finals, to communicating more and being better teammates.

“I just want to keep our brotherhood,” said senior starter Trevor Manuel.

The boys battled back in the fourth, but couldn’t overcome the deficit. After losing the game 73-61, the locker room was back to being quiet, but this time there were no faces to be seen, and quiet sniffles echoing the room.

“There’s no reason to have your head down,” said Ferguson. “We appreciate you.”

Ferguson went on to say that he was proud of the way the boys had come together, and the good fight they had put up.

“Finish on three,” said Ferguson. “one, two, three, finish.”

Junior Jamyrin Jackson runs down the court at the Breslin Center during the game against Saginaw Arthur Hill.

Seniors Trevor Manuel and Eric Davis (from Saginaw Arthur Hill) show good sportsmanship at the end of the game and congratulate each other. Manuel and Hill have played against one other in the past, and were both runners-up for Michigan’s Mr. Basketball this year, Erin Arnold

12 • The Voice • May 5, 2015 • myvikingvoice.com

Brianna Billard Editor-In-Chief

Erin Arnold

Breslin run brings pride to Lansing

SPORTS

Senior Rama Hoskins competes in singles against an Eastern player.

She lost the match in two sets. asked about a boy’s team, and if we had courts here we would definitely have a boy’s team,” said Kramer.

Courts would simplify practice, allow for more home games, save time and expense for parents.

“We’d be able to practice longer [if we had

our own courts] and we could put our funds towards equipment and uniforms, rather than court time,” said senior Makayla Gleason.

Another good thing about having courts is that a lot more girls would want to play.

“If we had tennis courts, I think more people would be interested in playing,” said freshman Vivian Ho. “We wouldn’t have to worry about where we would practice at.”

There were tennis courts at Everett at one time, but they were where the soccer field is now. 10 years ago there was a bond passed for upgrading, and that’s when they tore up the tennis courts and built the soccer field. They were supposed to build them again behind the school where the student parking lot is, but there wasn’t bond money left after other construction to build them.

“I don’t think we’ll build them again because it comes down money,” said counselor Raymond Rubio “Tennis isn’t a money-making sport like basketball or football.”

Senior Makayla Gleason warms up for a tennis match against Eastern High School. She was defeated by her Eastern opponent in two sets.

13 • The Voice • May 5, 2015 • myvikingvoice.com

The tennis season is just starting up and the girls have been practicing hard at getting ready for their first game. The team practices every weekday, but they face a struggle because Everett doesn’t have tennis courts. The tennis team has to practice at Court One, or use Eastern’s courts.

“A huge challenge of not having tennis courts is arranging rides for several girls who do not have a ride,” said girl’s tennis coach Judy Kramer. “[Another challenge of not having tennis courts] is sharing court time with Eastern’s team.”

All homes game are held on Eastern’s courts.

“Transportation is difficult, and many players aren’t able to make practices because they don’t have rides,” said senior Emily Barshaw.

If Everett had its own courts, Kramer

said there would be additional benefits.

“There are numerous guys who have

Nick Pine

Kaley McEnhill Online Editor

Nick Pine

Lack of home courts complicates practice, games for tennis team

The Rundown:

SPORTS

2. Baseball 3. Soccer

The snow is gone and the sun is out! With the wrapping up of winter sports programs, spring sports are here.

It can be difficult for a spring athlete to train when it is so cold and there is so much snow on the ground. There is

only so much space inside of Everett for each team to use to their advantage. The girls soccer team trained by running in the halls after school and using some extra space in the cafeteria to kick the ball around. The baseball team held open gym for two hours on Saturday and worked out in the weight room, along with the track team.

Senior Davyon Rose comes up to bat at a varsity baseball game.

1. Track and Field

The baseball team has been in a developing mode for some years now. Every year, plenty of new kids join the team but may not have what it takes. This may not be the case for this year’s team. Freshman Zachary Cornwell and Senior Lane Porter are new to the program and think they have what it takes to turn it around.

“I think I have the integrity, hard work, and focus that will make our team perform to the best of our ability,” said Cornwell.

Nick Pine

Nick Pine Opinion Editor

Chase Rapin

What you need to know about spring sports

Sophomore Tasha Mack plays in a varsity soccer game against Holt.

The girls’ soccer team is filled with confidence this year. They went all the way to the championship game as an indoor team in the offseason, but lost. They seek an even better outcome for their spring season.

“This season we should be pretty good; I’ve got a lot of confidence looking into this season,” said senior Carlybeth Bradbury.

4. Tennis

Nick Pine Nick Pine

14 • The Voice • May 5, 2015 • myvikingvoice.com

Nick Pine

5. Softball

Junior Maurice Allen and Senior Bryan Jones run against two of Holt’s runners in the 200m sprint.

With snow still covering the track in mid March, the track team still spent time lifting weights and running the halls. Everett has high hopes for this year’s squad.

“It is definitely looking like the strongest team we’ve

had in a while, looks like we’ll have a full team of sprinters, distance, and hurdlers for both boys and girls,” said senior Bryan Jones.

Sophomore Jae’lyn McClain, plays in a tennis match against Eastern.

The girl’s tennis team started conditioning in the winter mostly by lifting in the weight room. Since there is no tennis courts here at Everett, the girls have to practice either at Court One or at Eastern High School. These girls have to be more dedicated because they have to travel just to practice.

“I’m really excited for the season, and I think we will do really well this year,” said senior captain KeAnte Thompson.

Sophomore Mariah Hernandez, winds up the pitch during a softball game.

The softball team made sure they stayed in shape for the upcoming season. They plan on making a bigger mark this year.

“We’re looking for a better record than last year,” said senior captain Marissa Marsh.

SPORTS

Around the world: Foreign exchange students who play sports Germany

(Basti Fahrnann- Swim, Track) Coming to Everett from Germany was a very new experience for Basti Fahrnann. High school in Germany is way different than here, and school sports is a whole new opportunity to him.

“We don't have school sports in Germany so for me it's like the most awesome thing ever,” said Fahrnann.

When Fahrnann joined the swim team, everything was new to him. He knew how to stay above the water, but not how to swim for speed and time or the different styles of swimming used in competitions.

“I knew how to keep my body over the water but that’s basically it; I didn't know any strokes or the proper way to swim freestyle,” said Fahrnann.

Brazil

(Carolina Leite - Cheer, Track) Carolina Leite plays handball in Brazil. She didn't know about American football or basketball, so seeing football here was really cool to her.

“I like American football, but I like soccer more, and ever since I became a cheerleader I like basketball a lot,” said Leite.

She likes more than just sports.

She likes the culture and how important sports are to Americans.

In Brazil, they don't have college sports.

“If you're really, really good at a sport then you go straight to the pros,” said Leite.

Being that you can't go to college for sports there, she loves that some students can get free college for being a good student athlete in America.

Thailand

(Hannah Kottmann - Cheer, Track) (See story below)

Exchange student finds joy in sport of Horse Vaulting Dennis Parker Reporter Close your eyes. Next, imagine you're at a gymnastics meet. Now, imagine that the gymnasts are all performing while on horseback. Sound like something out of a bizarre dream, or maybe the Shrine Circus? For exchange student Hannah Kottmann, it’s a reality. In Germany, she participates in a sport called Equestrian Vaulting. Kottmann started when she was only five years old (this is young, the youngest vaulter ever was three years old).

Freestyle vaulting for teams can include routines with up to three people who are doing mounts and dismounts, handstands, kneeling and standing, as well as aerial moves such as jumps, leaps and tumbling skills. Kottmann loves to vault.

“For me, my vaulting time was and still is like [time

spent with] a family,” said Kottmann.

After vaulting for years, she started competitive cheer for extra practice without the horse.

“My competitive career started when I was 11 or 12 and I moved up to our first team (the best team in our club),” said Kottmann.

When she first started Equestrian Vaulting, she spent time getting to know the horses and their movements.

They practiced four times a week for around two or three times on a horse, an one time a week in the gym where they tried to improve their tumbling.

While she likes being at Everett, it has been a little rough for Kottmann; she misses vaulting, and her family.

“My two sisters were also part of my team. We went through a lot of things; mostly personal problems, and we helped each other,” said Kottmann.

In addition to the practices weekly, they also had

meetings where they designed their costumes and searched for music for the compulsory exercise and freestyle. During a competition, Kottmann performs a variety of routines: a compulsory exercise that includes seven given exercises, a freestyle performance, a pas-de-deux (two people), and a team performance.

Last year, her team won the state championship and took 9th place in the national championship.

After a childhood with horse vaulting as a large part of her life, Hannah will return to Germany as retired vaulter.

“I'm too old, and I'm going to college,” said Kottmann.

But she is going to coach in the future and she may or may not do some non-competitive vaulting on the side.

She says she will attend meets in her spare time, and that vaulting will always be a part of her life.

15 • The Voice • May 5, 2015 • myvikingvoice.com

Germany

(Nattaporn Arpaprasith - Cheer, Track) Nattaporn Arpaprasith, a foreign exchange student from Thailand, joined the cheer team and said it has made her time in the US a joy.

“I've never cheered before in my country,” said Arpaprasith She really likes to do cheer and loves being with her girls, and enjoys the friendship they offer her.

“My cheerleading squad is like my second family; I spend most of my time with them,” said Arpaprasith.

It’s a new experience for her and she enjoys the help support her team.

“It's a great opportunity to learn new things; even though I always mess up but they say “it's OK, you can do it,’” said Arpaprasith.

“I'm so glad that I can cheer this year because the boys made it this far.”

Photo Story

Students Show Love for Basketball Team

Erin Arnold

Madinah Johnson

The student section cheers the team on at the March 11 District Semifinal game at Okemos High School. The students make the money sign during one of the player’s free throws. Everett won the game against East Lansing, 59-39.

The student section is blown back when junior Jamyrin Jackson makes a three pointer. The March 16 Regional Semifinal game was held at Holt High School against Ann Arbor Huron. Everett advanced in the tournament with a score of 82-77.

Students show their love for the team with some body paint before the District Final game against Grand Ledge March 13.

Erin Arnold

Senior Bryan Jones leads the student section at the game against Jackson February 27. Everett won the CAAC (Capital Area Activities Conference) Blue Championship.

The student section at the Breslin Center for the Semifinal game on March 27. Students hold up letters to spell out #EVNATION when the starters are announced against Saginaw Arthur Hill.

Erin Arnold

16 • The Voice • May 5, 2015 • myvikingvoice.com

Erin Arnold

The student section poses for a photo at the Quarterfinal game against Muskegon.

Madinah Johnson

Erin Arnold

Junior Jamyrin Jackson and sophomore Nyreel Powell shoots down the student section in the Eastern Field House.