The Voice: March 20, 2015

Voice The

your school. your voice.

Volume 54, Issue 3 March 20, 2015

The Wiz blows into Lansing

news

2 • The Voice • March 20, 2015 • myvikingvoice.com

on a Friday, which is great for those Honors and AP students getting loads of homework every night. If you like watching anime or playing Yu-Gi-Oh and want to meet other people like you, club members are encouraging students to join now.

So far, several students make up the extracurricular program, mainly juniors (though they welcome all classes). A common day in the Anime & TCG club includes watching anime on the smart board and playing various card games that aren’t limited to just Yu-Gi-Oh. Magic: the Gathering is another favorite card game of the club. One member, junior Adam Alexander, looks forward going to his favorite club every week.

“It’s the best club,” said Alexander.

“It’s a great place to find people who love anime. We watch great and funny anime.

Other than that, it’s calm and we sell, buy, and trade cards.”

Many students have hobbies that aren’t normally accommodated by after school programs. Junior Samuel Miller, appreciates that there’s finally a club that satisfy his tastes.

“I really like the interactions I get,” said Miller. “Most clubs don’t appeal to what I like, so in there I get to meet with people

who are interested in a lot of the same stuff.”

The atmosphere is very light hearted and so are the attendees. Many of them like to joke around and just have fun. The club may often time get labeled as “nerdy”, but the members aren’t afraid to own up to that label and have fun while doing it.

“It’s a smelly hot room of nerds who play children’s card games and watch Japanese cartoons together,” joked Junior Isaac Flamand, another member of the club.

Besides watching anime and playing with cards, on occasion the club plays Xbox games on the smart board. According to Flamand, a few of the various games they play include Mortal Kombat, Street Fighter, Soul Calibur, and Dragon Ball Z Budokai 3.

Though the club doesn’t play video games every meeting, it adds a bit of variety to the already diverse club.

If you’re looking to join an after school program and you like watching anime or playing Yu-Gi-Oh or Magic the Gathering, why not give Anime and TCG club a shot?

Meet other students like you and have loads of fun while doing it!

Freshmen Brandon Nagy and junior Adam Alexander duel each other in a game of Yu-Gi-Oh. Junior Samuel Miller stands aside to witness the intense match.

The club plays a lot of games that you don’t see around anymore such as Pokemon and Magic: The Gathering.

The club isn’t one that is funded by the school, so they raise all the money they need for games and supplies by selling cards for ten cents a piece.

Katrina Turner

Dan Tran Reporter Not every teen grew up watching Nickelodeon or Disney, some grew up blowing the dust out of a Dragon Ball Z VHS tape, so they could watch their favorite Saiyan hero save the world. Others woke up early on Saturday to watch the new weekly episode of Yu-Gi-Oh, a popular anime show based on a card game that never fails to make your average game of Uno look lame.

Maybe you were one of those kids who took it a step further, and used all of your Christmas money to buy Yu-Gi-Oh cards, specially created to replicate the ones in the show, so you could finally satisfy your childhood dream to become a professional duelist (no matter how many times your mom told you that it wasn’t a real job). If this sounds like you, the Anime and Trading Card Game Club is probably something you need to check out.

The club meets in math teacher Lance Hunter’s room (302) right after school from 3:00 to 4:00 every Friday, and it is the go-to place for avid trading card players and the dedicated anime fan. This type of schedule doesn’t require too much commitment, nor does it cut into homework time because it’s

Katrina Turner

TCG Club gives anime fans a new deal

news

Each year in February, Michigan State University Federal Credit Union (MSUFCU) hosts an art contest for high school students. Schools choose their most promising and creative art pieces to enter the contest. The entries include pieces like portraits, paintings, sketches, and even 3D pieces.

This year, ten Everett students submitted pieces in the art show, many of whom have participated in the event multiple times. Art teacher Pamela Collins strongly encourages her students to participate in the event.

“I present the contest to the students as an assignment because I have made it my mission to make sure Everett always participates in this community project,” said Collins. “Usually there are about

50 turned in, then I’ll call together a group of administrators to help me narrow down the ten I choose to submit.”

Students who have participated in the event before have positive things to say.

“It shows art students what other art is out there, and there are so many mediums we are able to use, this is my third time entering the contest,” said junior Shyanna Walker.

The different styles of art give participants a wide range of artistic creativity, and that is one of the many things that makes students interested in the contest.

“I like that I get to choose what art style I use, and I like seeing what the other students choose,” said Thompson. The ten pieces from Everett vary in style and type, the event has very few limits on what the students are allowed to produce. From Everett

there are portraits, landscapes, paintings, and even a few anime type drawings. The student artists get to pick the style they work the best with, or even the one that makes their art unique.

“I drew in pencil, to sketch.

Then I painted over my sketch in watercolor paint. I choose that because I like to paint, and I wanted to give my piece an extra something,” said senior Baraa Abbas.

Students could vote and view the students art work on the MSUFCU website, and they can even choose what high school they’re from. There is also the option to vote on pieces at the event showcase.

There are four categories of awards. The Juried awards are chosen by a panel of judges, who are usually local artists. The Social Media award goes to students who shared their artwork on social media to increase their votes.

The People’s Choice awards are chosen based off the total votes cast online and in person at the MSUFCU headquarters in East Lansing. Last but not least is the School Spirit award which is given to the school that receives the most votes.

The winners are announced at the art showcase on March first, students and parents are invited to attend the event. There will be snacks and artists who will speak.

Everett is the only high school from the Lansing School District that participates in the event, and Collins hopes that art students continue want to be included in the opportunity.

“I will continue to push for students to be in the show, because the artistic freedom they have, and the opportunity to see what their peers are producing is important,” said Collins.

This piece is a sketch done by Everett senior Jayla Dunlap. She won honorable mention at the art exhibit.

Cinderella’s Closet gives all girls chance to be a princess at prom Alexa Johnson Reporter Cinderella’s Closet is an opportunity for young high school girls, who cannot afford the expensive prices of their prom attire. With the help of Baryames Cleaners, Cinderella’s Closet makes it possible for every girl to feel like a princess. The event helps students and parents by offering all dresses, accessories, shoes, and jewelry are to the girls at no cost.

“Senior year is so expensive,” says Behavior Intervention Analyst Jessica Ryan. “It’s [Cinderella’s Closet’s services are] such a relief.” Ryan donated her barely worn homecoming dress to Cinderella’s Closet when she was in high school Baryames Cleaners accepts

gently used and even unused prom dresses, and as a part of the donation cleans and presses them for the event at no cost. Many Baryames employees also invest their time sorting the sizes and colors of the dresses for the event, so that girls can find their dream dress. Gently used accessories, shoes, and jewelry are also donated to Cinderella’s Closet, which are handed out with the dresses. Baryames also makes minor alterations on site to make the perfect outfit for the girls.

“It was helpful in the sense that I was able to get a dress for graduation, because they didn’t have any prom dresses in my size,” said Cara Jackson, 2014 Alumna.

There are a few requirements to participate in Cinderella’s Closet.

Girls must have a referral form by a principal/counselor, community organization staff member, or social worker agency. They also require a form stating that the student is enrolled in high school, and is a junior or senior. The student also must carry this form and a student ID when arriving for their appointment. Although female adult is recommended to help pick out the perfect dress, a parent is required to be accompany the student.

Before the event begins, students and parents line up at the doors. The building is small, so only about seven people are allowed in at a time. Girls receive an appointments that is about a two hour time frame. Some of the past participants have concerns that the appointment

isn’t long enough to look through all the event has to offer.

“I would change the time allowance and give girls longer to look for a dress,” said Jackson. “Also having more availability of dresses for sizes.”

Baryames Cleaners are still accepting dresses, and can be donated at any local store.

This year in Lansing, Cinderella’s Closet is held on March 21 from 10am to 1pm, at Eastwood Towne Center, between DSW Shoe Warehouse and Schuler Books & Cafe.

Many sponsors will be there with booths set up with treats and goodies. Dresses are in need and can still be donated at any local Baryames Cleaners, or at 97.5 Now FM, 3420 Pine Tree Rd. in Lansing.

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Katrina Turner News Editor

msufcu facebook page

Art students participate in local annual art showcase

OPINION Your Voice

Cell phone policy stressing students out

At Everett High School teachers have been really strict with the cell phone policy and other electronics. Many teachers believe that cell phones are a distraction to students and it keeps them from getting the information they need.

Students aren't feeling too happy with phones taken even when they're not being used.

Teachers should not be able to take a students cell phone if its not being used. It shouldn't be a problem if the student is paying attention. Many students get in trouble for standing up for themselves when a teacher takes a phone they weren't even using.

Students should be allowed to have their phones if its not a problem with their education. In college no one is there to tell you to put it away. Its the responsible students that use their time wisely. Teachers should only take phones only when they are being used at an inappropriate time.

Its understandable that teachers want the best for us and that they don't want any distractions in the way of our education. They want us to be responsible because in college the Professor won't repeat things just for you, so if you miss some important information, you basically fail the class and that’s money gone to the trash. They should teach student how to wisely use our phones instead of blocking them off completely.

Some teachers teach their class perfectly fine and aren't bothered by the electronics.

Those teachers are the ones that know how to teach and have the students attention because it seems that every student passes their class.

Instead of taking away phones they need to make their class more interesting.

Ruth Becerril, ‘16

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Hall sweeps have some benefits

Students at Everett High School should have the freedom to navigate through the hallways without struggle. The flow of classmates shouldn’t be interrupted by groups of people standing dead center of the halls.

The crowds of students standing in the middle of the hallways need to be stopped.

The amount of people who don’t seem to care about the tardiness of themselves or the ones they are blocking is astonishing. Anger and irritation rises in students faces as they try to squeeze past the blockade of their peers.

The people creating the traffic won’t even move until the warning bell. These students have to be yelled at by public safety to even think about moving.

Even though signs have been posted up in the hallways saying “Don’t Stand Here,” people still refuse to acknowledge that they exist. Teachers and public safety need to start enforcing that no one should be standing around. Hall sweeps are one way they are getting kids out of the hall but that’s not affecting them during the time in between bells.

Students shouldn’t have to be constantly reminded that they have to get out of the way of the hallways.

Students get five minutes for passing time to do whatever they need to. The students that go straight from class to class show up within the first minute. The pack of students standing around in the halls may have a class right next to the group. If they have everything they need for their next class they have time to waste and end up just chilling in the halls. The groups might not even realize that they are in the way of others.

Teachers and staff need to push these kids to want to get to class and stop waltzing around in the halls wasting time. Students need to get out of the middle of the hallways so others can get to their destination.

Jerald Bullock, ‘17

Fluent English speakers should not have to endure WIDA

At Everett High school there is a lot of diversity, and many students speak different languages. To test these students’ English, the WIDA test is held. Just by answering that they have more than one language spoken in their household, these students are required to take the test. This can be very annoying for the students that already speak English fluently. For fluent speakers, the test is unnecessary; frustrating; and a complete waste of time.

The WIDA test may be helping the school measure their ESL students’ English language fluency and seeing how they progress, but the problem is that they not only test these students, but fluent speakers as well. Some students having more than one language spoken in their household have known the English language from the start or when they were really young.

It is needless to have them take the test because having gone through school elementary through high school, it should be quite clear that they do not need it. The tests contains a lot of listening activities, including both social and educational communication skills.

From how these students communicate and understand lessons in class, teachers should be able to see if they need help or not. School can use this knowledge to decide whether students should take the test.

Sometimes these fluent English speakers have to take the test more than one year.

This is extremely frustrating because it is obvious that they are capable of, and most likely, passed it the first time.

Schools may need students to take the test because it can affect their credit for ACT and MME testing. If an ESL student has to take the ACT or MME test and does not understand what they are reading, the school rating drops when they do bad. Schools need the WIDA test to prove that this is the case.

Though, this is not always the case. We need schools to better judge who they need to take the test. If they must have all these students take it, make sure to let them go after the first year.

Sara Aljazi, ‘15

OUR VOICE:

When senioritis hits hard, seniors need to hit back As the weather is warming up, prom dresses are flying by, as well as AP practice tests. You’re stressed, why would you go to your English class, when you could get a group of friends and hop in the car to go get dollar cones from the McDonald’s on MLK? Oh right, It’s because you need four English credits to graduate.

Seniors feel that they are entitled to show up to class late, leave campus for lunch, and slack on their work. It happens every year, and will keep happening every year, simply because they are seniors and very close to the end. Every year, no one tries to put a stop to it. Seniors can waltz in midway through their second hour with a cup of QD coffee in one hand, and a bag of doughnuts in the other, without teachers or students saying much of anything, because it has become a normality.

By no means is it the teacher’s or administration’s fault that this happens, or even the seniors. It just happens, kind of an unwritten rule. If some-

Voice The

one started enforcing policy, things would change.

It’s like Billings says: “No one shot Hitler, because no one shot Hitler.” This mentality has been passed down from class to class, and the class of 2015 is just filling the class of 2014’s shoes.

Maybe administration doesn’t mind too much because honestly, what can they do to change a new “adult’s” mindset? Being 18 is a new and beautiful thing, especially when you’re in high school. It comes with a huge amount of responsibility that most students ignore.

Yes, it’s fun to be able to go anywhere else but the class you’re supposed to be in, but it won’t be fun when you can’t walk at graduation due to your failing grade in Mrs. Carl’s senior math class.

Senior skip day, prom on a Friday, and AP testing days are all opportunities for seniors to miss class; there’s no need to skip and slack off and use the deadly disease of “senioritis” as an excuse for your laziness and procrastination.

3900 Stabler Road Lansing, MI 48910 (517)755-4472 myvikingvoice.com myvikingvoice@gmail.com 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) REPORTERS Nakia Drane Madinah Johnson Sabrina Martin Dan Tran Julia Montes Morgan Whitby Alexandra Johnson Dennis Parker Britani Gibson 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.

OPINION

POINT/COUNTERPOINT:

Are hall sweeps an unfair punishment, or an academic incentive?

Celaina Boylan-Castilla Social Media Editor Recently, Everett has been cracking down on the students in the hallways by conducting hall sweeps. The hall sweeps bring all the kids down to the cafeteria; there they are talked to and, depending on how many times they have been caught, are either sent to class or sent home.

Students get caught in hall sweeps because they are skipping, running late, messing around, etc. When you get caught for the first time in a hall sweep, you’re given a warning. However, when you get caught a second time the punishment depends on how big of an issue the hallways currently are. Students and staff have mixed feelings about the recent hall sweeps.

“It helps me get to class but I would rather not be rushed,” said ju-

nior Tia Le. Le feels that the punishment of being sent home is not a good idea.

“Why take someone out of class to punish them for not being in class?” asked Le. Teachers also have different opinions about the hall sweeps and the punishments that follow. English teacher Robin Elliott said she feels that the hall sweeps should have been started much sooner. “(Hall sweeps) set the priority that “Hey! This is important, get to class,” said Elliott.

The hall sweeps work on getting students out of the hallways and to class on time and have decreased the number of students in the hallways.

They inform kids that class is important and that there will be a consequence if they do not go to class.

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ministration take it [too] far with suspension. I got caught twice in one day and I got suspended,” said sophomore Ciara Willheart. “It’s not fair because I had to go from the dance room to the second floor. After dance class I have to change, so it’s kind of hard to make it to my class on time.”

It’s not fair to students that have to travel from one side of the building to the other that they get punished.

They shouldn’t eliminate hall sweeps completely, but they should stop doing it so often. Maybe once in awhile just to catch some of the kids that are always tardy, the majority of students who aren’t always tardy should not be punished. The halls are crowded and students shouldn’t have to shove through people to hurry and get to class.

PUNISHMENT INCENTIVE

Sabrina Martin Reporter Hall sweeps in school should not be allowed because the security guards are just making us even later to class.

They have to pull everyone in the cafeteria and get everyone’s name, then they have to write us a pass to class.

By that time, instead of being only a few seconds late we are now 15 minutes late.

If you get caught twice within the same week then you get suspended.

Maybe the student isn’t tardy all the time and they were tardy for class because they wanted to stop at their locker or go to the bathroom; it is not fair. That’s why there is truancy court for the kids who are tardy to school too much; at least that doesn’t go on their record.

“I really dislike hall sweeps, ad-

FEATURES

Maria Mireles

Senior helps bring patients Christmas cheer from around the world “The cards she did for Christmas brought joy to a lot of individuals... she’s a remarkable young lady.”

-James Toby

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Salma Torres Features Editor

During the holidays, many people send cards to loved ones, but senior Maria Mireles took it up a level this past Christmas. She mailed cards for people all over the world, including people in Greece, Brazil, and Venezuela.

Mireles participates in an online community through the website DeviantArt, an online showcase for user-made artwork. On Christmas it has a Holiday Card Project, where users make cards for patients in the hospital during the holidays. Mireles participated in the project for the past three years.

“This year they received 8,000 cards from over 4,000 people,” said Mireles.

This past Christmas, Mireles printed 54 cards from the website to send to patients for Christmas. As she was talking with people online, she saw that some of the overseas people would not get theirs mailed to the US in time for Christmas. She volunteered to print and mail them herself.

“Since most of them lived too far away, by the time they would have sent them out, the cards probably wouldn’t have made it,” said Mireles.

After telling some people that she would send them out herself, she started getting notifications from a lot more people.

“That’s when I decided to just write my offer out in the comment section,” said Mireles. Then, more people took her up on her offer.

Mireles went to FedEx to print them out and spent around $40. The cards were sent out to Hollywood, Ca. In the end, she printed cards from 62 different people.

Mireles plans on continuing to make cards in the future. Not only will she be taking part in this project, she plans on getting others involved .

“I’m a senior this year, and I didn’t have Mrs. Collins first semester so I will be coming back next year to talk to her class about it.”

Economics/psychology teacher James Toby is

very proud of Mireles’ work, “She’s a very remarkable young lady, very sensitive to the needs of others.”

Toby was quite happy Mireles made cards to help bring joy to patients, “The cards she did for Christmas brought joy to a lot of individuals who would otherwise go unnoticed.”

Toby noticed her good deed and contacted The Voice.

“To take that kind of time, is worthy of [recognition],” said Toby.

To people reading this Mireles would like to say, “Do as many good deeds as you can.”

DeviantArt offers chances year-round for

users to do good deeds. This past Valentine’s Day, they did The Great Valentine Exchange where you send your card to a friend.

Joining DeviantArt and participating in the community projects can be a nice, simple way to do a good deed. They can be found at deviantart.com.

LIBRARY

FEATURES

LEGACY

-Tristian Walker, 12

“She always kept me on track, she is tough.”

-Lloyd Harrison-Hines, 12

“Incredibly strict, organized, and friendly.”

-Zuleiha Rachid,12

“I liked helping people, she is nice and gave us cookies.”

Wendy Gonzalez, 11

“I like that she knows what she wants, when she wants it. When we come up with posters, she tells us if she doesn’t like them, she doesn’t sugar coat it. She’s the realest.”

-Rama Hoskins, 12

“She’s very helpful and resourceful. She’s strong.”

-Brittanie Guilbeaux, 12

“She is a really good listener,” -Tanisha Rodriguez, 12

7 • The Voice • March 20, 2015 • myvikingvoice.com

“My Favorite memory about Ms.Lyons would probably be having the little parties that we had. She loved her third hour and she would throw us parties in her office and feed us all this good food and candy. The Christmas party we had before winter break was especially nice. We were doing our shelf reading and checking books in. She was like I got a treat for you guys, and we were like what! We then we went in her office and it was like... a feast of sugar, it was amazing and nice.

There was really good fudge cookies and mint cookies.

Tiffany, Wendy, Rama, and I all had a great time. She said thank you for being good patrons.”

In January, Everett staff were called to the media center for the worst of news.

Media specialist Renee Lyons, who had battled and beaten Leukemia last year, had been given months, maybe weeks, to live. Tears were shed, visits were made, cards were mailed, and people prepared for the inevitable next meeting.

Fast forward three months. After undergoing a grueling new chemotherapy treatment, hospice has been cancelled, and a bone marrow test has shown Lyons’ cancer to be in remission. Her friend Diane Bennett calls it nothing short of a miracle, and staff are in shock at the change of events.

Whether Lyons will ever return to Everett or not is uncertain, but she is growing stronger every day.

Here, former library aides share what it was like to work with Ms. Lyons in the library.

Features

8 • The Voice • March 20, 2015 • myvikingvoice.com

Dan Tran Reporter Celaina Boylan-Castilla Social Media Editor Many students were not prepared to take the ACT for the first time. To compensate for that, Everett High School gave an ACT practice test to all juniors, and some teachers administered the Work Keys to their individual classes.

The four-hour-long practice test emulated the conditions of the actual ACT, to be given later down the semester. During the assembly for juniors explaining the practice exam, many students groaned at the idea of taking a long and grueling test that wouldn’t even directly affect their GPA. Students have several contrasting opinions about the usefulness of the practice test.

Before taking the practice test, Junior Michael Burch said he didn’t feel that the test was necessary and that it should be optional.

“Well… I feel that it really isn’t necessary for all the juniors to take. It should be recommended to those who want to take it,” said

Kaley McEnhill Online Editor The way Everett is testing the juniors is going to change next year. The ACT has been administering the exam in Michigan since 2007. Starting spring of 2016, juniors will take the SAT. Students will take the SAT for free through the school, but if a students wants to retake the SAT the price is $52.50. If a student want to take the ACT for college applications, admissions, or even future reference, they have to pay for it from their own pockets.

The state decided on the change when SAT outbid ACT for the contract. Whatever

Burch.

Jason Sailor, another junior, disagrees with Burch. He believes that the practice is useful and that other students are pointlessly complaining about the length of the test.

“I think [the practice test] is a good idea because a lot of people are stressing about the ACT. Honestly, it was a good way to prepare us for the real thing, and the way it was organized was decent,” said Sailor.

When the first day of testing ended, Junior Kim Golding felt relieved.

“I felt like the test was long, like there wasn’t enough time to answer the questions,” said Golding.

Golding stated that she felt proud when she finished the test. She said that she felt like she did her absolute best and her results would be her best. The ACT practice testing made most students nervous since it gave a bit of insight to how the actual ACT will be. Junior Tia Le was one of these students.

“The testing made me really nervous,” said Le. “And it made me overwhelmed because everyone was making it [the practice test]

the state decides becomes the standardized test that all schools in Michigan take.

As Everett teachers work to prepare this year’s juniors for the ACT, some have concerns about how the switch will affect scores and whether it will help or worsen the results.

“I am uncertain that this will help our scores. When a new test is introduced, it usually drops scores for everyone for a few years until we get used to it,” said principal Susan Cheadle-Holt. “I am hoping we can prepare our students so that this does not happen.”

Some students who are in the class of 2017 are nervous about the switch in the tests, worrying that it will be more difficult, and that the

into a big deal.”

Most of the juniors that finished the test felt drained and tired, due to the long hours and the lack of breaks students receive during the testing time.

“I felt really poopy and rushed,” said Le. Le and Golding’s feelings about the ACT practice testing reflected the views of most of the juniors as well.

The ACT Work Keys has not been given to all juniors due to the interference of recent snow days and the pep assembly. English teacher Robin Elliott, gave the English portion of the test out to her students. Jason Sailor, a student of Elliott’s, said the test was no sweat, and that “it was just all multiple choice.”

Our Voice: ACT pretest is helpful

ACT preparation they have had will not be applicable to the SAT. “I think it’s bad idea because I already hear that the ACT is kind of hard, so if they give us a harder test it won’t help us. They should give students ideas on how they can prepare and how it will be like,” said sophomore Mariamo Mussa.

Other 2017 students are okay with the change because they know the teachers are doing the best they can to accommodate the change.

“I think the teachers are doing the best they can do with the switch but regardless of what the teachers are doing, there will always

be those kids that just don’t care,” said sophomore Anntonia Fisher.

Students can get familiar with the SAT by taking the PSAT in October through their school. According to princetonreview.com the PSAT is a nationwide, multiple-choice test taken by about 3.4 million high school students every year–mostly sophomores and juniors.

It’s great for preparing for the ACT and SAT because it gives them experience in the test and lets them know what they should expect. You can also find books and online websites that will give test practice and review materials.

Nakia Drane Reporter Some students don’t really take the MME pretest seriously. But they should; it could really help out and prepare them for when they really take the MME. Preparation for the MME can help you actually learn things you might have missed.

You might do bad on a few practice test or whatever, but you might do way better on the actual MME test!

The MME is a big step in your life. Colleges will most likely look at your scores and if they like your final score, they could offer you a full ride. Who knows?

Some students think they already know what will be on the test, and how it’s set up.

But we don’t always know everything like we think we do. Working hard to prepare may be the little bit extra you need for college.

“They send them out to colleges and if we do bad then they won’t accept us,” said Junior Victoria Guardiola Take all the practice chances they give us.

Don’t wait to the last minute to do something about it!

features

Brianna Billard Editor-in-Chief Chase Rapin Photo Editor

Tiffany July

Meda Maweja “In terms of size, I didn’t want to go to a big school like MSU or a small school like Olivet. Grand Valley is the perfect size. My best friend from middle school is going there too and I haven’t had a class with her since 6th grade.”

Sara Aljazi “MSU is a great engineering school, I think they’re ranked number 24 in the nation. The 2+2+2 program is great, my tuition is paid for. LCC and Michigan State are investing in Lansing students in hopes of them giving back to the community when they’re older”

“I want to do business management and dance. I’ve heard good things about Western, and their dance program is really nice. It’s one of the top five schools in Michigan and their business program is number one.”

“It’s a nice start and it’s completely free. I like that it’s very close to home. And I also like the smaller class sizes.”

“They have really high academic expectations. They’re one of the top schools in the country, I love the medical school and the environment. I want to major in bio chem and go to med school.”

Desirae Carr

“I love the urban atmosphere, it’s like Everett. I want to major in social work and their program is great. I went for orientation and I liked knowing what I’ll be getting myself into.”

9 • The Voice • March 20, 2015 • myvikingvoice.com

Jared Thompson

Brett Howe

FEATURES

FOR THE FIRST TIME IN FOREVER:

10 • The Voice • March 20, 2015 • myvikingvoice.com

When senior Makayla Gleason took the ACT for the first time, she ate well the night before and went to sleep early, and just hoped for the best. Gleason concentrated on the math the most, because it’s not her strongest subject. Weeks before the test, she tried not to stress about it too much, and her score was much better than she expected it to be.

Erika Wentworth Guest Reporter In Advance: A lot of teachers and older students will tell you to take ACT prep courses, and I won’t say that those courses aren’t valuable, but really you are spending money on things that you can get for free if you are willing to find them. The biggest thing you are paying for is experience. The best thing you can do is get comfortable with format and typical content of the test. In the weeks preceding the test, I took tons of practice tests. They’re all over the internet, and are by no means difficult to find. Print them out and time yourself.

The other major thing you pay for is advice about the test. Most of your classroom teachers will tell you pretty much the same things as the prep course instructors. Upperclassmen will tell you about their experiences, and it is a lot easier to take advice from people who took it just last year.

Don’t stress about the scores you got on practice exams. I didn’t get higher than a 27 composite on any practice tests, but ended up with a 31 when I took it. A good practice exam will be a little bit more difficult than the actual exam, so it is very likely that you will do much better on the actual.

The night before I went to bed at 10:00.

It is best to go to sleep early, but if you usually go to sleep quite late, the night before taking the ACT is not the best time to change your routine. Although more sleep is better than less sleep, your body will not take well to a very sudden change in routine.

I ate a small breakfast but things that are very good. For example, I have very low iron and have experienced weird fainting spells because of it, so I ate a lot of spinach to avoid this at all costs. It seems excessive to worry about something like that; the ACT does not put one under a particularly great amount of physical stress, but I know pretty well how bad falling asleep during exams is after falling

asleep during the math portion of the SAT. During the Exam: I brought a water bottle with me because let’s be honest, Everett’s water tastes really weird. Drinking a lot of water is good for the ACT because it keeps you awake, it prevents you from getting hungry before the break, and really, drinking plenty water is just generally a very healthy habit. However drinking water comes with an inevitable need to pee relatively frequently. You can use this as an excuse to not take my advice and bring water with you, or you can just be sensible and use the bathroom before testing and at the break.

Don’t overdo it with Talking To The Text.

It is very important to actively read the passages, but too much T4 will run down your test time and make it near impossible to finish. Your test booklet will show how much you know and understand, but unfortunately, ACT Incorporated sees your ID number and bubbles on the answer document; the booklets aren’t graded and annotations don’t count

for much in the long run. Of course, I am not trying to discourage anyone from underlining important information, but keep it to a minimum if possible.

Most importantly, relax. It can be very difficult to relax during the ACT. Teachers and administration have a lot riding on our scores, and I think that is why they place so much importance on one test. There is this “high stakes” testing environment that they create, but that is really the most stressful thing about the ACT. It’s the pressure that makes you nervous, not the actual test, so find way to calm down. You can always retest. Getting a low score doesn’t make you unintelligent, it just means you need to work on your testing skills.

The ACT is important, it could make or break your chances at getting into your dream college, but most colleges will look at everything you have done in high school, and in the end the most important thing is a killer personal statement anyway.

Entertainment

$2.00

IMAX 3D and NEW SEATING

popcorn on Wednesdays

cheaper popcorn prices, and free refills

only free refills on large popcorn

wider selection of food

movie experience more expensive yet more enjoyable

includes a dinner and a movie

Cynthia Hunter Business Manager There are four movie theatres in the Lansing area: Studio C, Lansing Regal, Celebration Cinema, and NCG. There are many qualities that make each theatre popular, and favorable. Although each one has their own pros and cons, Celebration seems to have the upper hand among moviegoers.

Many Celebration Cinema attendees agree that their experience with the staff is great, and that the convenient location is also a plus.

“Celebration is my favorite because the people are polite and well-mannered, but also really cool,” said junior Jason Sailor.

Celebration Cinema also has updated their seating in the theatres from uncomfortable, small chairs to comfortable recliners. For many, this makes their movie prices worth every penny.

“They are perfect for cuddling and stuff. [Also], their popcorn is awesome, and their pop is awesome,” said Sailor.

Others say they like Celebration Cinema because unlike other theatres, they are professional. Teens can’t just go and buy tickets to any R-rated movie without a second glimpse.

“I like Celebration Cinema. It’s closest, open 365 days a year, and professional,” said junior ZaQaun Callahan.

Some students don’t have rides or cars to get to where they need, so Celebration being just down the road, is beneficial to most.

“Celebration Cinema because it’s conveniently close and has a good management,” said junior Casey Hicks.

Although Celebration Cinema is the most well-liked theatre, they do have some downsides. They don’t always play all of the movies that are newly released.

There’s often a bigger selection at NCG. NCG is known for their cheaper popcorn prices, and free refills on soda and popcorn. Lansing Regal only has free refills on large popcorn.

“NCG has cheaper popcorn,” said junior Isaiah Garrett.

For those who don’t like the higher cost of popcorn Celebration Cinema has $2.00 popcorn on Wednesdays.

Lansing Regal and Studio C have a wider selection of food, such as wings, burgers, onion rings, and even beer, making your movie experience more expensive, yet more enjoyable. These theatres are a convenient place for a date night, that includes a dinner and a movie.

Both Celebration Cinema and NCG have advantages that Regal doesn’t have, such as IMAX theatres and the Xtreme theatre. Celebration and NCG also have arcades, for those who want to kill time before or after a movie.

11 • The Voice • March 20, 2015 • myvikingvoice.com

thebus via flickr

Local Theaters Offer Variety Of Choices

Entertainment

Father John Misty’s new album unique, but not for everyone Kylie Skuse Guest Reporter Father John Misty’s sophomore album “I Love You Honey Bear” was released February 10th, 2015. Father John Misty, or Joshua Tillman, started off in the band Saxon Shore as a drummer from 2001 to 2004. When he left, he joined a band called Fleet Foxes as their drummer as well from 2008 to 2012 then became a solo artist.

His first album aired in May 2012. He then waited about three years until airing his next piece: “I Love You Honey Bear” is a definite blend of almost every genre of music.

It was definitely a different experience, not entirely good, but also not entirely bad.

Most of Father John Misty’s songs are slower but not all of them. He has very strange lyrics in some of them. His song, “True Affection” is a blend of techno and harmonizing with the lyrics “When can we talk/with the face?” and in another song “Cheateau Lobby #4” a slightly slower song he uses the line “We’ll have satanic Christmas Eve,” which is also quite strange. His lyrics can also be very depressing. His song “Bored In The USA” is a definite example of this. In the song it talks about all the depressing things of life. “By this afternoon I’ll live in debt / and by tomorrow be replaced by children/” this song also fits into the strange category because of the laugh track in the middle and the use of “Save me President Jesus,” and “Save me White Jesus,”

mixed into the song.

Though strange, the songs also have a type of rhythm and beat that can be catchy and stick in your head. “Strange Encounter” is one song, it’s louder and is the only song to have an electric guitar solo, even though it’s short. This song is much more rock

than the majority of others.

It sounds like a song that would come on during a long car ride that sounds like The Beatles had a strange encounter themselves. “The Ideal Husband”

is also rock and starts off with a siren guitar and speaks of bad things that someone has done. At the end he talks about being tired of doing everything he’s always done and wants to start a family with a woman. In the song “I Went To The Store One Day” was very slow and had a violin, acoustic guitar and vocals, it was much softer but still depressing.

The types of instruments that Misty are close to the same thing in every song but they can very a bit. In the majority of his songs there is at least a violin and guitar. Only one or two faster songs don’t have violin. In “Bored In The USA” there is a large variety of strings and a piano.

This strange album is a mix and blend of things not many people hear everyday. It has catchy beats that make your head bob or smile while others make you think and mull things over.

The strange lyrics and mix of instruments, are something worth spending the time to think about. The fast beat, techno and guitar songs mixing in with others that are slow, with piano and string instruments along with the strange lyrics make this album quite questionable but also very buyable at the same time. This album, in my eyes, is 3.5 to 4/5 stars.

#

MyViking VOICE

Theme: Winter Photos

Funniest- @wildephotography

12 • The Voice • March 20, 2015 • myvikingvoice.com

Most Artsy- @brendagonzalez_99

INSTA GRAM CHALL ENGE

Do these pictures look super cool?

Do you want to be in The Voice?

This month’s theme was winter pictures, next months’s is animals!

Hashtag your animal pictures on instagram with #MyVikingVoice or mention us @MyVikingVoice.

Don’t have an instagram? On twitter mention us @vikingvoice for a chance to be in the paper, and a free surprise! Winners deemed

by Viking Voice staff.

Nature- @abiellejohnson

Cutest- @allstar_aubree

SPORTS

erin arnold

Combined swim team has strong Lansing bond Sports fan, Laurie Howe comes to support the Viking Boys’ Basketball team At Okemos.

The Lansing Legacy Swim Team stands for a moment of silence for the National Anthem.

Nick Pine Opinion Editor Life for a Lansing Legacy swimmer is different than any other sport.

The Lansing Legacy Swim Team is a combined team of Everett, Sexton, and Eastern.

Practice and meets, who knows where they will be? Scheduling these types of things can be difficult when you are working with students from different schools. But their choices have been slimmed through these last few years, with the closing of Eastern’s and Hill’s pools.

The team has been forced to have their practices and meets at Everett.

2nd year swimmer Evan Rapin says that Lansing Legacy is a great representation of the Lansing School District.

“It shows that we can bond together, even if we are from different schools,” said Rapin.

Students who have never swam before may feel out of place joining a team of people who are potential rivals in other sports. Owen Kilpatrick ran cross country for the Quakers in

the fall, and joined the Legacy this winter.

“I’m comfortable joining a combined team, especially because it gives a chance for the three schools to interact,” said Eastern freshman Owen Kilpatrick.

It may seem very uncomfortable to join a team with the schools whom you compete with outside of the pool, but not for Kilpatrick.

“I have an idea of what it’ll be like from seeing my brother Nick swim with Legacy, and I know he enjoyed it,” said Kilpatrick.

Along with adding swimmers from each school, each team had a coach. Former Eastern graduate and Legacy coach, Bryan Scott resigned in 2013, now current 200 freestyle relay record holder, Nate Burchfield and Everett graduate, Calvin Harshman coach this developing program.

“It feels good to still hold a record, but at the same time I’m wondering why it has not been broken yet, I can see the record being broke but we have to get more people on the team. There is a lot of potential in the school

district, there is exceptional athletes in our area they are just afraid to fail,” said Burchfield.

Everett joined with Eastern and Sexton to compete with better teams. In 2006 Everett’s 200 freestyle relay went to states for the first time in 32 years. Students saw what that relay did and tried to accomplish similar goals.

“It is a very different team; when I swam for only Everett we had relays and individuals qualifying for state cut times, that is why we are working on different programs like the middle schools to help build the team for future years,” said Harshman.

Another big issue that has sprung up this year is that Eastern does not get out of school until 3:45, which forces the coaches to push practice back until 4:30. While it could be a hassle for some schedules, some swimmers said it gives them time to catch up on homework or even sleep before practice.

Nick Pine Opinion Editor Do you like Everett athletics? Try to out-do one of Everett’s most loyal sports fans. Everett athletics gets a lot of support from local substitute teacher and Everett parent Laurie Howe. Whether they’re winning or losing, this loyal fan stays true to her teams.

“I discovered Everett sports in 2001, when my daughter Marie was a freshman,” said Howe, who has attended hundreds of sporting events.

Howe’s daughter Marie was a cheerleader for both football and basketball.

Howe came to every game to support her daughter, including the state championship basketball game held at the Breslin Center.

That 2004 team was led by Goran Suton, who went on to play for Michigan State.

From the years 2006 to 2008, Howe did not have any children enrolled at Everett, but she continued to attend games.

“As a substitute in the district I know a lot of the athletes, and I go to support them,” said Howe.

In 2008, Howe’s middle child Blake enrolled and joined the swim team, giving her the opportunity to attend more events.

Blake got to go to the state meet two years in a row and was state champion in the 100 backstroke his senior season.

“It was good to have that support, to

know that someone was there specifically for you. Plus she always had granola bars ready to go, which was helpful,” said Blake.

Howe got the opportunity to watch both Blake and her youngest son, Brett, swim on the same team in 2012, the year Blake was state champion. Blake also went on to swim for Eastern Michigan for two seasons, which meant Howe also attended college swim meets along with Brett’s high school events.

“She was always there, unless Brett had a bigger meet like an invitational or conference meet,” said Blake.

Brett was also involved in varsity soccer for three years, swam for four years, played football for a year as punter, and played baseball for a year. This meant that Howe attended dozens of events in one school year.

“I tell my mom all the time she doesn’t have to come, and its not a big deal, but she enjoys it,” said senior Brett.

Brett will be graduating this year, and will no longer be involved in Everett athletics. For the first time since Brett was a child he will not be in a spring sport. This leaves Howe with no more children in any time of activities and or athletics. This does not mean that she will no longer attend Everett events.

“I will still attend Everett events after my son has graduated,” said Howe.

13 • The Voice • March 20, 2015 • myvikingvoice.com

Brianna Billard

Meet Laurie Howe, Everett’s biggest fan

SPORTS

Soccer

Sammy Sophomore goalie follows passion for soccer,

14 • The Voice • March 20, 2015 • myvikingvoice.com

dance, and Volley ball

Since sophomore Samantha Gifford was four or five, she has been playing soccer. She started when her parents put her in Little Kickers.

“I remember when I was a goalie, my dad would stand by the goal and give me advice on how to be a good goalie,” said Gifford.

She played as Everett’s Varsity Soccer goalie last school year, and is planning on playing goalie again this year for varsity.

“I like the lifestyle of soccer; I love how I’ve made so many friends over the years from playing,” said Gifford.

Another reason why Samantha loves to play soccer is because she can play with best friend Abrianna Bowman.

“It’s a lot of fun playing with Abrianna; she tells me I’m the only one she’ll listen to when we’re playing,” said Gifford.

Samantha is also on Everett’s Dance Company and Volleyball Team.

Samantha went to Pleasant View, so she’s been dancing since kindergarten. She has always loved volleyball, and joined the Everett team her freshman year.

“I love when I’m dancing at the pep rally’s and the crowd goes crazy over some of our dance moves. Dancing is so much harder than it looks though,” said Samantha “I love volleyball because it’s so much different from soccer when I play volleyball it’s kinda a break from soccer,” Not only is Samantha really good at sports and being active, she’s also manages to keep her grades up.

“I have only had one B on my report card and that was in 5th grade I have always had straight A’s,” said Gifford.

Samantha was Freshman of the Year last year, and she’s hoping she’ll be chosen again this year. Samantha gets overwhelmed with all the things she does but she never gives up.

“I definitely get overwhelmed with all the things I do especially with my AP and honors classes.” said Samantha.

She even makes time to coach her brother’s soccer team successfully.

“I love coaching my brother’s soccer team; it’s fun to have boys look up to you,” said Gifford. “Also, it’s the best feeling to have your boys win when you’re the coach. I’m proud to say that I coached them to championships.”

Samantha is a very busy person, but she always has time for soccer.

“Soccer will always be a big part of my life whether I play professionally or not,” said Samantha.

erin arnold

Kaley McEnhill Online Editor

SPORTS

Club sports offer students athletic options outside of school

Johnson has been playing volleyball since she was little.

Junior Jillian Johnson is a part of Attack Volleyball, as well as Everett’s varsity volleyball and softball teams.

Johnson explained that there good reasons to play on a club team.

“The teams are more committed outside of school,” said Johnson. ”They’re also a lot more fun, and I get to meet new people.”

Johnson said that Attack Volleyball can help with how she plays at school. “[Doing a sport outside of school] improves your skills with competitive tournaments and stuff like that,” said Johnson. “[I learn] different hits and different defenses and offenses to play.“

Justin Stewart

Freshman Justin Stewart can relate to playing a sport for a while, like Johnson. Stewart plays different types of sports outside of Everett, as well.

Stewart does football, basketball and track outside of school and plays football for Everett. Stewart said that he’s been playing football

Sophomore Diego Robinson plays AAU basketball, as well. Robinson said he fell in love with the sport at a young age.

“I fell in love with[basketball] in the 5th grade,” said Robinson. “I remember I use to [play basketball] all night until my mom would call me and I wouldn’t come back inside; I just have passion for basketball.”

Robinson is also a varsity player for the

boys’ basketball team and he has brought some skills from AAU basketball that helps him play here at Everett. “[I’ve learned] how to be more vocal, I play with the top players and go to Florida and thinks like that,” said Robinson. ”It gives me more exposure [to basketball},” Exposure to Robinson is also one of the benefits from playing a sport outside of school.

“[A benefit from playing a sport outside of school is] exposure, getting to college coaches that you might see on TV, seeing a couple player that you might see on TV,” said Robinson.

“Pretty much just getting you better, playing against people in a competition.”

Alexis Morrison

Senior Alexis Morrison participates in competitive cheerleading. Morrison has been a part of competitive cheer for four years now.

Morrison says that being a part of competitive cheer is a rush.

“It’s fun and it gives you an adrenaline rush,” said Morrison.

Morrison learns many advanced skills when she goes to practice.

“I learn how to do different flips and how to stunt,” said Morrison.

Top: Junior Jillian Johnson (Number 8) and her teammates from ATTACK Volleyball taking a photo together.

Bottom Left: Sophomore Diego Robinson, playing against a team he plays against with AAU Basketball.

Bottom Middle: Senior Alexis Morrison taking a senior photo with her competitive cheer uniform on.

Bottom Right: Freshman Justin Stewart (Number 2) After a game he played with AAU Basketball.

ABOVE: Photo Courtesy Justin Stewart LEFT: Photo Courtesy Alexis Morrison

15 • The Voice • March 20, 2015 • myvikingvoice.com

Jillian Johnson

Diego Robinson

Photo Courtesy Jillian Johnson

E

and basketball since he was four years old.

The basketball team that Stewart is a part of outside of school is the Amateur Athletic Union, also known as AAU. Stewart decided not to play basketball for Everett this year because he wanted to take a break, but he plans to try out for the team next year.

AAU helps Stewart to learn how to play basketball a little bit faster and that will help him next year if he plays for Everett.

“AAU... [includes] some of best players in the country, so the speed is faster; when I come here it will be easier,” said Stewart.

Stewart has also learned a few skills from AAU that can also help him play the game next year.

“I’ve learned tempo, the intensity of the game and just controlling myself when things get intense,” said Stewart.

Stewart feels like playing sports is a way to forget what’s going on for a moment in life and just focus.

“In my life there’s a lot of things that go on and I just play the sports I play to get away from it,” said Stewart.

Photo Courtesy: Diego Robinson

Erin Arnold Sports Editor verett provides many different sports for students to participate in. But some students decide to participate in some of the many sports that are available to do outside of school. Whether it’s to have a chance to play a sport that isn’t offered at Everett, or to strengthen their off-season skills, club sports are a chance to try something different.

Photo Story

The Wiz prepares for weekend debut

2.

Brianna Billard

1.

dennis parker

3.

Brianna Billard

4.

1. The art class paints the set for The Wiz. Shyanna Walker pays close attention to paint the outline on the board.

Chad Sanders

dennis parker

5.

6.

7.

3. The actors show some sass with their dance. Dallas Robinson leads the way for the cast with some snaps.

5. Cast members promote The Wiz at the Lansing Center. Theresa Barney sings her heart out with some help from the back up singers.

6. The Theater Tech class builds one of the sets for the production of The Wiz. Theater tech teacher, Jim Allen directs the students for the project.

dennis parker

4. The poster for The Wiz hangs in the hallway of Everett. The poster was created by Senior, Veronika Sarkisova in her desktop publishing class, and was used on billboards around Lansing. dennis parker

8.

9.

8. Art teacher Pamela Collins directs Markina Nguyen and Shyanna Walker where to put the set so they can paint it.

9. The set built and ready to be painted for the weekend debut.

dennis parker

7. A piece of the set dries in the large auditorium. Members of the art and Theater Tech classes helped create pieces for the set. dennis parker

16 • The Voice • March 20, 2015 • myvikingvoice.com

2. Actors in The Wiz practice their dance number. Jaimie Smith really shows what she got at practice.