The holidays are here, and people are celebrating
2 Snowflake Ball
10 3 7 Changing Culture Boxing Christmas & Climate
Dreams Movies
Voice The
your school. your voice.
Volume 53, Issue 3 December 19, 2012
Photo Illustration: Cameron Brewer
The Great, Big Holiday Issue!
NEWS
S
PHOTOS: CHAD SANDERS. DESIGN: Melanie Matchette
2 • The Voice • December 19, 2012 • myvikingvoice.com
tudents attending the 19th annual Snowflake Ball were treated to a night of dancing and fun. For four hours, the DJ layered dance beats over top hits and classics alike. When they took a break from the crowded, sweaty dance floor, they had a chance to get a couples photo taken by Lifetouch, or enjoy a cup of punch, cake and snacks. Transforming the cafeteria and activities room into a ballroom takes work. Members of the social studies department and others gather Saturday morning to set up the tables, tablecloths, and candles. They get out the punch fountain, and set up the snack table. They prepared themselves for the rush of eager students to come. The annual event is a chance for the social studies department to raise money for its spring history field trip. Past trips have been to New York, Gettysburg, Memphis, and Washington, DC. While students on the trip still need to raise money to go, the Snowflake Ball helps defray some of the costs.
NEWS Second in a four-part series
Raising standards means change to Everett’s climate and culture Meeshon Rogers Editor-in-chief On Monday, November 19, there were 334 tardies. That’s 334 times a student missed an opening assignment. 334 times someone disrupted class by entering late, 334 times a student was in the hall causing a distraction. Everett is on the “Priority Schools list,” which means they are in the bottom 5 percent of the state’s “Top-to-Bottom” ranking. In order to get off this list they have to make major changes. Improving the climate and culture and implementing a school-wide instructional framework (focusing on literacy) are the two major plans being used to transform Everett and get it out of that bottom 5 percent. Currently, schools that remain at the bottom of the list are in danger of being taken over by a state-wide agency, and Lansing would lose the ability to make decisions about its own schools. A takeover can be an extreme change; in Muskegon Heights, over 25 percent of the teachers quit after the takeover was put in place. Changing the Climate The goal of improving the climate and
CLASS CORNER
culture focuses on a reduction in tardies, which hopefully will result in better grades and higher test scores. It also means that all students will be expected to follow the code of conduct, with all teachers on the same page. This means that there will be a consistency of rules throughout the school: if headphones are not allowed in the handbook, they will not be allowed in any classroom, school-wide, no exceptions. “There really haven’t been any (consistent) rules since I was a freshman this is going take some getting use to,” said senior Katie Runyon. English teacher Dee Halstead is co-chair of the School Improvement Team (SIT), and has been working long hours getting the transformation plan in place. She explained that the focus on climate and culture is an effort to make school a good experience for all students. One idea to help encourage students to build a positive climate is giving prizes to students who have ones and twos in citizenship. “We want to help students in a positive ways,” said Halstead. Three Steps There are three steps in making the climate and culture plan take hold for the whole
school. After the first step of implementing the plan school-wide, a second level is in place to help students who are still struggling with behavior. For this smaller group of students, support personnel are available to help get them on the track to success. Progress toward achieving the goal of positive climate is monitored. For the relatively few for whom the second level doesn’t work, a third step involves even moreintense intervention such as home visits. The climate and culture subcommittee has been working on the specific new policies to help improve the atmosphere of the school. They hope to implement some of these ideas next semester, and roll out the entire plan next year. The Matrix One of the new policies the committee has come up with is creating a new “matrix” for appropriate behavior. A matrix is simply a
grid that breaks information into different areas. The matrix has three things for students to remember: “Be Respectful,” “Be Responsible,” and “Be Safe.” These three categories are addressed for every area of the school, such as the cafeteria, hallways and classrooms. The beginning of next school year, every student will get a copy of the matrix and every teacher will teach about it. One goal of the new system is to avoid using negative language; for example, instead of saying “Don’t swear,” the matrix would say “Use schoolappropriate language.” “Kids respond better to positive words,” said math teacher Frank Purdy, who has been helping compile the information for the matrix. Minors and Majors Another policy in the works is a procedure for discipline that uses both “minor” and
“major” offenses. For major offenses like drugs, class disruption or insubordination, a student is immediately sent to administration. When a student engages in a minor offense like horseplay, tardiness or being off task, the situation is handled with an in-class write-up. Three minors within a month span are treated as a major offense and students are sent to administration. Perhaps the biggest change for many students will be the addition of an ISS room, called the “Academic Intervention Room.” Instead of sending misbehaving students home, many students will be escorted out of class and into the ISS room. The idea is to keep students in school, being productive. The Intervention Room will not be a place where students sit with nothing to do, they will be engaged in work of some kind. “Students who get in trouble must go to the room and work with behavior specialist,” said Halstead. UP NEXT: PART THREE: Inside the Reading Apprenticeship Program PART FOUR: Looking Ahead
Everett represented at Tri-County Festival of Trees
2013
Melanie Matchette
Important Dates Graduation Supply Ordering: January 17-18 Senior Pictures due to Mr.Zielinski January 28
2014
Fundraiser Updates Four Fundraisers have been planned, including: • Movie Night • Keychain Sales • Valentine Dance • McDonald’s Night For more information on fundraisers, see class officers. Next class meeting will be at the start of second semester. Do you have info for Class Corner? email myvikingvoice@gmail.com.
Senior Juliana Oviedo joins the drum line as they perform at the Tri-County Festival of Trees. The event, which raises money each year for the Make-a-Wish Foundation, allows visitors to bid on decorated trees. Some tree themes this year included Smurfs, Disney characters, a “baby” tree decorated with infant care items, and a Toy Story tree. There was also a craft show with a variety of holiday-themed items available. Junior Cyntiola Rich performs with the Everett Dance Company at the Tri-County Festival of Trees. The company put on an hour-long show for the visitors. The festival featured performances from many groups from around the area, including the Everett cheerleaders, who performed the following day. In addition to performances, trees and crafts, kids who came to the festival were treated to a visit with many different characters, such as Mickey and Minnie Mouse and Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer.
Melanie Matchette
Election of class officers President, Freduh Davis; Vice President, Almer Dzananovic; Treasurer, Dalia Carpenter; Secretary, Sunshine Wheatley.
3 • The Voice • December 19, 2012 • myvikingvoice.com
Election of class officers President, Huong Nyguen; Vice President, Amber Love; Treasurer, Kristin Nelson; Secretary, Damira Begic.
NEWS
ON THE
JP: ‘My goal is to see every kid graduate’
AIR
Chris Buckner Reporter Most students know public safety officer John Pentecost (J.P.) as the guy who looks like Gru from “Despicable Me” shuffling them to class every hour
Sometimes unprofessional, morning announcements chance for students to learn public speaking
when the bell rings. But he sees his role at Everett as something bigger: He wants everyone in this school to succeed. “I wish students would be more serious about their education,” said J.P. “It’s vital in today’s society. Students need to be responsible and accountable for themselves. My goal is to see every kid graduate. I also want
Sarah Yang Reporter
kids to see me as a good guy, and also to be approachable.” When J.P. isn’t monitoring the halls, he’s usually at home spending time with his daughter, two sons, and their dog. “I love dogs,” said J.P. “I’m a big advocate for animal rights. Other than that, I like photography, and watching sports. Especially golf.” Being a public safety officer can be tedious work, so it requires someone to be strong willed and motivated. “It’s too early to tell if working here will get me down,” said J.P. “I used to work at Pattengill, so this is a step up from what I’m used to. This is my first time here, but I already know a lot of kids, and I enjoy meeting new people. The only issue is that not enough students take responsibility for their attitude and actions.” And what about Gru? Does JP mind the comparison? According to his computer’s desktop background, he has accepted it. His wallpaper is a picture of Gru, side-by-side with a picture of himself.
Toilet paper on girls’ bathroom ceiling symbol of disrespect for Everett For quite some time now, the third-floor girls’ bathroom ceiling has been plastered with large “spit wads” of toilet paper. Each is slightly bigger than a baseball, and nearly cover the ceiling. No one knows how they got on the ceiling or who put them there, not to mention why they would do it. Many female students haven’t noticed the mysterious toilet paper wads, but those who have say they are disgusted at the sight. “Who knows if they used water or toilet water,” said senior Ozema Braddock. “It’s nasty and makes the bathroom look worse than it already does.” The toilet paper wads have been on the bathroom ceiling for long enough, that it is a common question among students why nothing has been about them. Marisol Torres, day custodian, says they haven’t been taken care of because the custodians are short-staffed. “We don’t have someone to maintain (the bathrooms) and run through and pick up,” said Torres. Although the custodians try their hardest to keep the bathrooms clean, as well as the rest of the school, the bathroom conditions are difficult to sustain. But why would someone do this?
“People are ratchet and they don’t know how to respect property,” said Braddock. “They’re not trying to get an education; they’re just hanging out in the bathroom doing stupid stuff.” Not only is the thirdfloor girls’ bathroom ceiling unclean, but many of the other bathrooms in the school are made a mess by students as well. “It gets pretty nasty. They’ll plug up the bathSpit wads hang on the third floor of the girls bathroom. rooms and still use them, and we have to clean them up,” said Torres. The spit wad situation Teachers and students have complained about the unWhere: Third floor bathroom cleanliness of the bathrooms. Last year in a meeting, Torres What: Gobs of toilet paper stuck to the ceiling said that it was brought up that students wouldn’t use the How long: at least since last school year bathrooms because they were so dirty. Why they’re still there: custodial cuts means “I wish students would have more pride in the buildless staff to handle less-important tasks ing,” said Torres. “If students have more pride in the school, Why would someone do this? One reason may maybe they won’t do those types of things.” be a lack of school pride, according to day Melanie matchette
4 • The Voice • December 19, 2012 • myvikingvoice.com
Melanie Matchette Photo Editor
custodian Marisol Torres
Early in the morning, students give morning announcements about upcoming opportunities and events offered at Everett High School. While some feel that this is a good way to get information out to the students, others say that it’s just a waste of time in the morning. “I don’t like the morning announcements; it makes us sound stupid,” said Sadie Davis. What many see as childish behavior on the announcements has been an issue lately. Students reading spend time laughing or talking to people behind the camera. In one incident, a student used profanity. Junior Choua Xiong said that watching the morning announcements is frustrating. “I think it’s stupid how they keep whispering to the camera man or people who aren’t giving news,” said Xiong. Students complain about how the announcements seem unprepared, but those working the announcements want people to know that it’s not as easy as some may think. “People giggle so much because they’re nervous to be in front of the whole school,” said junior Mariah Sklapsky, who runs the camera and has been on TV. The struggles with the scripts comes from the lastminute nature of morning announcements, said Jim Allen, who teaches the first hour Drama class, which produces the announcements. “A lot of times, the first time they see the announcement is when it’s handed to them just before the news starts,” said Allen. “If (the announcements) are there (early), they try to read through them but often they just get them before they start.” Allen asks people to remember that the students are part of a class, and that they are learning. “(Students are) learning to speak in front of the camera and getting over of being shy,” said Allen. Without the morning announcements, many say the school would not get the information it needs. “The morning announcements are important and need to be watched. A change of time or schedule may be possible in activities,” said government teacher Benton Billings. Teachers are all asked to show the announcements in class, but an informal survey showed nearly half of the classrooms do not turn the TVs on in the morning. For some, it’s because they do not have a functioning TV. Others have stopped showing the announcements due to what they called their disruptive nature. In response to teachers who are concerned about the announcements, Allen emailed teachers explaining his approach, and asking them to understand how doing the TV announcements helps his students: “If I just let the good, outgoing kids do (the announcements), many would not get the experience and have the chance to develop better speaking skills, better diction, and confidence,” he wrote.
OPINION
5 • The Voice • December 19, 2012 • myvikingvoice.com
Our Voice New programs at EV will not result in change
3900 Stabler Road Lansing, MI 48910 (517)755-4472 myvikingvoice.com myvikingvoice@gmail.com
THE STAFF EDITORS
Meeshon Rogers (Editorin-Chief, News)
Kayla Smith (Opinion) Jaimie Bozack (Features) Melanie Matchette(Photo) Damira Begic (Photo) Brooke Burns (Entertainment) Lucas Barner (Sports) Emily Dake (Online) Dejana Puranovic (Online) Jasmine McCullough (Business)
Amber Love
“Priority” is a word that some at Everett can’t stop thinking about. The 2012 school year came with many new changes; new principals, new policies to follow... but the change with the biggest consequences for Everett was being put on the state’s Priority Schools list. Some of the policies that may be put in place are a move in the wrong direction for Everett. Being a priority school means that you have to make changes to your school and the way it is run. If you do not, or if those changes are unsuccessful (in raising test scores and graduation rates, among many other things), Everett could ultimately face many penalties. Among them, cuts in funding, the firing of its teachers, and takeover by the state. Everett plans on making two major plans: a change in climate and culture, and implementing literature throughout the whole school. Changing the climate and culture means many things. Adding an in-school suspension room (ISS), creating hall sweeps and to trying to reduce the number of tardies and absences is one part of the plan. This is the wrong move, and will not result in change. It’s just a repeat of policies from former years. While trying to change some adolescents into better behaved students, you’re punishing the hard-working. While Dr. Norman Gear was principal at Gardner Middle School there was in-school suspension, and it was not very effective. No one took it seriously and some students even saw it as a fun place to be and an easy way to get out of class. Why would this same system benefit Everett? Many students would just leave school or wander the halls and never make it to the ISS room. Many teachers feel that hall sweeps are a great way to get students to class on time, but do hall sweeps help students learn? This is supposed to be the goal of these changes. When students are in the classroom, some just fall asleep and others just sit and talk to their friends. Even though hall sweeps are a good way to get students to class, some are learning just as much as they would if they were in the halls. There are other ways to change Everett and make it a more productive place. One way is to create a detention center. This shouldn’t be just ISS as it has been in the past. It should be a place where students don’t wish to go, therefore they will follow the school rules and less students will act out. However in order for the detention center to work, teachers and other staff members need to enforce it. If students don’t understand and respect the school, or don’t want to be there, test scores will never go up and tardies will never go down. Getting troublemakers out of the halls and out of classrooms is what will help students learn, help to change the climate and culture of the school and improve the test scores over the years.
Voice The
Dating today lacks class of past generations Haley Buskulic Reporter Dating is one thing that never stays constant throughout the generations. Girls and guys change their looks and behavior towards each other every generation. The most logical reason for this is that trends, love, and ways of communicating change constantly and all of those things are a big part of the dating world. Things were more romantic and taken more seriously back then. Now things are all about status and trends, and love isn’t even an important component. In the early 1900s the fashion trend was proper and fancy. Men wore suits and had a nice clean-cut shave. The women wore fancy dresses that went down to their ankles with a large fancy hat. At this time men and women met through church picnics and there were always other people around watching. Men and women were kind to each other in public, but there wasn’t any inappropriate contact between the two. In the 1950s, more teens started joining the dating world and when they did things changed dramatically. Guys started wearing jeans and everyday shirts. Ladies didn’t see a reason to dress formal anymore so along came the poodle skirt and button up polo shirts. Girls and guys commonly met at school and their neighborhoods. Now, dating is completely different than ever before. Guys wear jeans if they want to look nice, and basketball shorts or sweats on a normal day. They also wear hats and expensive headphones around their necks.
Girls wear skinny jeans and tight fitted shirts When asked if they liked dating from that reveal too much skin with more makeup the 50’s or now a days, many guys said now. than usual. The way girls and guys get to “Dating is way easier now; everything is way know each other now is through Facebook, easier now,” said senior Santiago Arcuate. Twitter, and texting. I see why people would enjoy dating Dating has been damaged compared now more than back then. Guys had to to the 1900’s. Men used jump through hoops to to care about their reputhe girl they wanted, Guys used to date tation and how people and now all you have to looked at them. Now guys have to jump do is text a girl and see if don’t care about having a she likes you and then a through hoops couple is formed. reputation for cheating or lying. Women used to be to date the girl Easier isn’t always respected by men because better. Relationships they wanted, don’t last as long anythey were so proper and represented themselves more because people and now all as ladies. Now girls dress aren’t putting in enough in revealing clothing you have to do effort and they rather do and don’t have much self what’s “easier.” How can worth. The actions of the is text a girl and we fix the dating world? men and women now a can start by meetsee if she likes We days has ruined dating. ing people and getting People don’t go out on you and you’re to know them before dates, they enter relationjumping into a relationa couple. ships not knowing what ship. Go on a date and they’re getting themselves see how it goes. If it goes into. The main thing evwell, then go on another eryone cares about is sex, and love isn’t a date. If the date goes bad then you just saved main part in dating. yourself from wasting your time with the “I still take girls out before dating them, wrong person. Also, romance is just about but things have really changed. I guess I just dead and we need to bring it back to life. stayed old school,” said sophomore Brandon No matter how bad dating gets, women will Santana. There are some guys that still re- always crave romance. So it’s up to the guys spect women and take them out on dates like and girls. Do you want dating to change? If they did in the ‘50s, but not many. If more you do, you know what needs to be done. guys thought the same way as Santana, then Start making a difference in dating today. dating wouldn’t be as bad as it is today.
REPORTERS Deanera Barrow Christopher Buckner Haley Buskulic Brittany Harris Mikaela Jones Lindsay July Janelle Lewis Noelia Lopez McKayla Marinoff Morgan McIntyre Tori Murine Alexus Patterson Tara Phan Tecora Starks James Vandergrift Sophia Williams Sarah Yang
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.
You know what I hate? Crowded hallways and not enough time to get to class. One example is what if your 3rd hour is way back in the art room and you have to go to biology on the 3rd floor? Students can’t use the elevator unless they have a key or an injury. We can’t just walk really fast and forget to breathe. One reason we are late is if you have to use the bathroom you will be really late. One day I want an administrator to walk with me starting from art room to biology on the 3rd floor. I want to know what your opinion is. Just think about it. Na Delai ‘16
I and other students want different food choices. Food at Everett is a problem
Being suspended for tardies is a problem Students getting suspended from school for not going to class is an issue. The school district says that they don’t leave any kid behind and I think if you suspend students for being late or not going to class, that you are not living up to what you say. I think that students 18 and up should be able to make the choice for themselves to either get suspended or to get in-school detention, instead of just getting suspended. If they are not 18, then I think you should call their parents/guardians and let them decide with their child on what to do. Think about it. - Elizabeth Case, ‘14
Attendance policy punishes students who can succeed The tardy policy at Everett is that two tardies in a class equals one absence for that class. Students who are over ten absences in a class have to make up the time in order to pass the semester. On one day last month, there were 78 tardies to first hour alone. Many of these students are already, or will soon be, failing first hour under the absence policy. The tardy policy should be more lenient with students because sometimes their tardies are beyond their control. Some students have a hard time getting to school in the morning. For some, it is because their alarm didn’t go off. Some people rely on their phones rather than alarm clocks; if their phone dies, then they won’t have any way to get up in the morning. If you miss the alarm, then you are more than likely to miss your bus. If you don’t ride the bus then you have to rely on someone else to get you to school on time and if that person
Melanie matchette
McKayla Marinoff Reporter
Student advocate Kathryn Lynch urges students to go to class minutes after the fourth hour bell has rung. According to the Everett handbook, anyone with 10 or more absences will fail the first semester.
is running late, then you will be too. Crowded hallways also cause students to be late. Everyone stands around talking to their friends which prevents students who are trying to get to class on time from getting there. In the middle stairwell, students always gather to mingle. Some students who are actually trying to make it to class can end up late due to the crowds in the halls.
You also have those days you feel sick to your stomach, but going to the doctors won’t help anyway. Sometimes you’re not even able to get a ride to the doctor, or able to make an appointment. Those absences start to add up quickly, and then before you know it you are failing a class that you would usually be passing with an A. The administration believes that the at-
tendance policy helps prevent students from failing classes, skipping school, and keep them out of trouble. I can see where they are coming from, but at the same time that may not always be the case. If the people who are passing their classes start to fail because of the tardy policy, then that isn’t quite fair. And even if kids come to school that doesn’t always mean that will keep kids out of trouble. If kids are going to get into trouble here then they will either get suspended or possibly expelled, in some major cases. We should get rid of the policy altogether, or at least come to a compromise with the board concerning the policy. I have a feeling that if they get rid of the policy then we would have a lot more students passing. I believe that if they got rid of the policy students would actually show up more and get to class on time. It’s just like when a parent/guardian is too strict on their child, they will rebel. Maybe not let off the policy completely, but just enough so that we can breathe a little more.
[FIVEQUOTES•ONEQUESTION]
Do you think the announcements in the morning are unprofessional?
Damira Begic
One thing Mr. Gear needs to change about Everett is the crowded hallways. I’m tired of people stopping in the middle of the hallway, just to talk to their friends. They’re stopping me from going to my next class by standing in the hallway. What if somebody needed to go to the bathroom really bad, but the kids are just in the hallway talking and not moving? Something needs to change because I don’t like being late to my classes. When you ask the kids nicely to move out of the way they just look at you and keep talking and say something that’s mean. At least limit passing time, or have more hall sweeps. When there are hall sweeps, kids move so they don’t get caught. Jack’Quel Trammell, ‘16
Q5 “They are unprofessional, they lack spirit. It’s a little bit boring.” -Senior Madelyn MacCreery
Damira Begic
Rude students There is not make it hard enough time to get to class to get to class
Most of the time you hear about what wrong the students are doing in the community or what problems there are, but I have a solution that may stop some of the conflict. Rewarding students who do well in school helps encourage them to continue to do well and may also inspire the students who cause conflicts to realize their full potential. For example, when I was in elementary school I was recognized for my honor roll grades and good attendance. During that period of time it encouraged me to want to continue to do well and strive for good things. Every student is unique and special in their own way, and by putting effort into this idea you can help support and pave the way for the people of this community! Sadayiah Smith, ‘16
“Students laugh most of the time and curse, which is very unprofessional.” -Sophomore Matthew Curry
“I like the idea of hearing from my peers.” -Senior Larry Covington
“I think it’s a good way to start the day and it’s very positive.” - English Teacher Jennifer Leroy
“They are not really enthusiastic and it looks like they don’t rehearse. My advice would be to read over the announcements.” -Sophomore Erika Wentworth
6 • The Voice • December 19, 2012 • myvikingvoice.com
New choices will interest students
I think we should have more passing time between classes. The reason why is because some of us have classes on one side of the school and another on the whole other side. I find myself late to math every single day. Now an adult might say “Get there faster” but if we run we get in trouble. A solution might be to give us an extra 45 seconds or an extra minute. Daniel Benavides, ‘16
Melanie Matchette
The ability to take two math classes at once is ideal for students who have done poorly in the past. It offers an opportunity for these students to get back on track, while offering students who excel in their current math classes a chance to get ahead. This opportunity has helped many students on the road of success. Without this opportunity I would be behind a year in math. I would like to continue to take two math classes at once to get ahead in preparation for college. Unfortunately, the school wants to get rid of this, which I believe can only hurt the academic growth of students. Academic growth at Everett is imperative on our road to success as a school. So I hope that the school will make the decision by continuing to offer this opportunity to students. This is an excellent opportunity to assist students on the path to success toward their career goals, without paying out of pocket to get ahead in their academics elsewhere Jarret Gregory, ‘15
because students are getting tired of eating the food. For example in one food line students are eating the same chicken patty everyday. The students are tired of the same thing and they are going to stop eating it. When the students stop eating they are going to get cranky and more students are going to be in the office for bad behavior. So what I would like to happen is try to give us a better food choice. Lamonze Crompton, ‘16
Damira Begic
Taking two math classes can be beneficial
More passing Rewards time can result can encourage positive behavior in less tardies
Damira Begic
Your Voice
OPINION
Features
For Martinez, boxing has always been life-long passion Vicente Martinez has always loved boxing. It started when he was younger, when he and his father watched fights together on pay-per-view. He loved watching the live action and looked up to the people he saw. Vicente’s dream is to one day be one of those people he looked up to and inspire others like himself. “I swear I do not get more excitement from anything else than I do from boxing. It’s just what I love to do,” said Vicente. Today, he spends most of his time thinking about and training for fights. He takes advantage of his advanced PE class to train and practice his mitt work. When training for a fight, Vicente cuts out all social life and focuses only on his boxing. “You have to be physically and mentally strong if you want to win a fight,” said Vicente. Vicente has been working hard for a couple years now
Brooke Burns
“I want to be a registered nurse and also a boxer. So maybe putting people in the hospital and taking care of them the next day.”
3 THINGS
about Vicente Martinez
FAVORITE BOXERS: Julio Cesar Chavez and WORK OUTS: Manny Pacqiao At least four hours a day SECOND FAVORITE SPORT: Soccer
7 • The Voice • December 19, 2012 • myvikingvoice.com
Sarah Yang Reporter
with a goal of turning pro. He looks to his family and his religion to see him through. “Before I lace up and put on my boxing shorts I always say a small prayer,” Vicente said. “In my mind I always tell God to protect me and in training, make sure I don’t get hurt.” Although Vicente is focused on this dream, he also values education. Vicente wants to attend college with hopes of becoming a nurse. “I want to be a registered nurse and also a boxer. So maybe putting people in the hospital and taking care of them the next day,” Vicente said. Vicente plans to become the first in his family to receive a diploma. He said his family is one of his biggest motivations. “I work hard and study hard for my family”, said Vicente. “They lift my spirits”. Vicente works hard every day to achieve this dream. Whether it’s in training, fighting, or studying, he is always looking for ways to improve. “I am always looking for challenges, I want to see if my talent will ever surpass my ambition,” Vicente said. Vicente knows that there are challenges but he is working hard to make his dream a reality. Right now, he said he hopes to be in his first professional fight in March. “In my head and in my heart I could win every fight but win or lose I’m still proud of what I have done.”
Melanie Matchette
Jaimie Bozack Features editor
Features
Students mustaches meant to remind people about importance of cancer screenings 2011 graduate Justin Lundy heard about “Movember” from his RA when he began attending Spring Arbor University and he has participated ever since. “My RA at school hung up a poster advertising it and encouraged everyone on the floor to ‘just let it grow,” said Lundy in an online interview. Lundy participated by growing a mustache that he shared with his friends on Facebook. The cause he was joining, “Movember,” has hugely grown in popularity in a few short years. Movember (not to be confused with NoShave November), the world’s only mustachegrowing charity promotes men’s health awareness, particularly prostate cancer awareness and research. They want people, especially men, to know that going to the doctor is all it takes to prevent something as life-changing as prostate cancer. “In the future, when my income is more stable, I would love to be able to donate to the cause,” said Lundy. The Movember charity also encourages
men to go to the doctor, even if it’s just for a check-up. “Part of being a man is taking care of yourself,” said Movember’s manager of grassroots engagement JJ Owens. In the month of November, men start clean shaven and grow a mustache throughout the month. The idea is to spark a conversation about the mustache being grown, and when asked, those mustache-growing men can explain the cause. That person tells another person who tells another person, and so on. “The lifeblood is the organization and the movement is conversation,” said Owens. Spreading the word is one of the biggest parts of Movember. “Mo Bros” and “Mo Sistahs,” as Movember participants are nicknamed, are encouraged to just compliment other people’s mustaches to spark a conversation. “For right now, I’m just letting it grow (and) complimenting other guys’ staches,” said Lundy. Movember has over one million global participants this year with $45,281,817 raised and counting, but the Movember movement started only nine years ago in 2003 with only about 30 people.
“Movember started in 2003 kind of as a joke among friends,” explained Owens. A group of men in Melbourne, Australia realized that mustaches had gone out of style and decided to grow mustaches for the month of November. It was named “Movember” because the slang for mustache in Australia is “mo.” So many people asked about the mustaches that the next year, it was decided that they would raise money for treatment and research for men’s health issues. That year, 450 people in Australia participated and $43,000 was raised for the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia. Even when the first of November has passed, it isn’t too late to register. People who register (called “Mo Bros”) can register at any time in November and interact with other members, donate money, and earn prizes for raising money. U.S. partners that receive donated money include the Prostate Cancer Foundation and the LIVESTRONG survivorship program, created for the support and education for cancer survivors. Although the charity is there to create
awareness and help treat and research men’s health issues, women can also participate in the cause. “Women do everything the guys do,” said Owens. “They just don’t grow mustaches.” That means women can register as “Mo Sistahs”, donate to Movember, promote awareness, and encourage their male friends not to hesitate to go visit their doctor.
Melanie Matchette
Melanie Matchette Photo Editor
From left, Top row; Chris Buckner, Justin Lundy, Corey King, Tyler Gilson. From left, bottom row; Tyler Gilson, Kyle Hutchinson, The Viking.
Project Unify aims to build awareness
When it comes to promoting Project Unify, awareness is key. Many students hear and see announcements about helping or joining Project Unify, but don’t know what they are supporting. “Project Unify is an educational based program that uses sports and educational activities to bring together people with and without disabilities,” said Amy Robinson, Teacher of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing. Project Unify is not only for those with disabilities, but for anyone who is willing to come and participate. Anyone can join Project Unify by stopping by room 138 B to fill out a form. Project Unify has many goals, and building awareness is one of them. “One of our main goals is to build awareness of people with disabilities at Everett and in the Lansing area,” said Robinson. According to Robinson, 53 schools in Michigan are involved in Project Unify, including Eastern High School. So far, Everett has at least 100 students officially signed up, including Christi McGonigal’s 3rd hour class, Paul McDowell’s class, and Jennifer Kivela’s
inside, as well. “Some special education students will be joining us for silent reading and writing,” said English teacher Christi McGonigal. Recently the members of Project Unify got together and spent time making decorations and decorating Christmas cookies. While the students made decorations and frosted Christmas cookies, Principal Norman Gear floated around the room talking with students and overseeing the event. “It’s fantastic to see everyone working together,” said Gear. “I want to thank the staff and students for a good job.” Project Unify has an upcoming field trip to Capitol Area Health and Rehabilitation Center on December 17. While they are there they are going to take the decorations they started making and will be decorating the Center.
Melanie Matchette
8 • The Voice • December 19, 2012 • myvikingvoice.com
Sophia Williams Opinion Editor
class. One thing that students and members of the community hear about is the “Ending the R-word” campaign. Many students either know somebody with a disability or have one themselves. There is a pledge students can take to stop using the “R-word,” or using the word “retarded” as an insult or put-down. “My favorite thing is trying to stop the RWord,” said Project Unify member sophomore Austin Caswell. Robinson said that Project Unify helps students see the impact their words can have. “Basically it’s an understanding that you’re hurting someone’s feelings,” said Robinson. “A lot of people don’t know (the “Rword”) is hurtful.” The overall feedback from students about Project Unify is positive. Many students agree that the experiences have made them more respectful to people with and without disabilities, and allows them meet people they wouldn’t of met otherwise. For junior Brittany Ayers-McWain, being a part of Project Unify has made her less shy. “When I put my mind to it I can lead people and I’m not as shy as I thought I was,” said Ayers-McWain. Project Unify is a year-round event. Some of their activities consist of bowling, different field trips, and focusing on service projects. The partnership happens outside of school and
Freshman Phuong-Vi Dang helps senior Marissa Valles, who is deaf, complete their project during a Project Unify event. The students made paper poinsettias to take to a nursing home during the holidays.
Project Unify
What it is: a sports and education program to unify all students and create a friendly, tolerant atmosphere. How to join: Anyone interested in participating can talk to Mrs. Robinson in room 138B. Upcoming events: February “Polar Plunge” fundraiser, R-Word rally in March, other monthly field trips
Melanie Matchette
Kayla Smith Opinion Editor
Principal Norman Gear gear looks on while freshman Virginia McEnhill works on a paper poinsettia during a recent Project Unify event. Gear said it was “fantastic” to see the students working together for such a good cause.
Features
Diversity at EV means variety of holiday celebrations The holiday season brings out the spirit in students Alexus Patterson Reporter
James Vandegrift Reporter Diwali, also known as “festival of lights,” is a five day celebration for Hindus, and is one of their most important celebrations. The first day of the festival is called Dhanteras. On Dhanteras, the goddess of wealth is worshiped to provide prosperity and well being. Many Hindus buy precious accessories on the first day of Diwali. The people in the community wear formal attire and beautiful jewelry as they light up the first lamp of Diwali. Some also take part in a little game of gambling. “I enjoy buying nice watches and cool accessories on the Dhanteras,” said Junior Rudra Adhikari. The Second day of Diwali is Members of Everett’s Nepali community celebrate Diwali, an important holiday in Hindu culture. a little different. It’s called Naraka Chaturdashi. It’s a day to abolDvitiya or ‘Bhai Dooj’. ish laziness and evil. On this day, Yama Dvitiya is celebrated as brother and sister exHindus get up early and attend a big breakfast with family change gifts. It symbolizes love between brothers and sisand friends. Later, they gather for fireworks. “This is a more calmer day of Diwali,” said senior ters. The brother puts “tilak” on the sister’s forehead. Tilak is a mark worn on the forehead and other parts of the Taru Aeharya. Amavasya is the third day of Diwali, and marks the body to represent hinduism. Many of Everett’s ELL (English Language Learners) worship of Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth. Amavasya marks the most important day of Diwali celebrations in students celebrate Diwali, and were absent on one or more days of the festival. North India. “Diwali is important to me because it’s a part of my The fourth day of Diwali is a celebration called Kartika Shudda Padyami. The last day of Diwali is called Yama religion,” said Junior Rudra Adhikari.
It’s that time again! Christmas time! Where you will see beautiful lights, Christmas trees for sale, and the most joyous and generous people around town. Senior Leah Childers has a hard time containing her excitement about the holiday. “I can’t wait for Christmas!” said Childers. With Thanksgiving passing, Christmas is just around the corner and ready to bring some Christmas spirit to the humbug Scrooges out there. Soon, we will see all the lights on each house and the anticipation of snow coming our way. “I already have my lights up for this Christmas, but I’m so not ready for the coldness,” Everett neighborhood resident Amanda Vaclavik said. For many, the main attraction is the Christmas tree. Lights, bulbs, pictures, and popcorn strings are all popular decorations. A final touch is the ornament at the top of the tree. “In my family we always have the little one put the star on the tree. It’s our own family tradition,” said Texas student Rene Codina. Once the tree is up, some choose to go caroling, or see some of the area’s Christmas lights displays. Potter Park Zoo is having their Wonderland of Lights, happening on every Thursday in December.
Admission is four dollars for adults and two dollars for children (ages 3-16). “I’m ready for the lighting in Potter Park. It’s a tradition for us to go there every year with all our family members,” said senior Jon Warfield. Anyone who hasn’t yet been downtown after dark should make a point to see the State tree lit up in front of the Capitol in red and green, and get a photo taken in front of the giant Christmas bulbs in the center of Washington Circle. Another option for a light show is the Brown Family’s Christmas light show in Mason. Each year, the entire house is lit up with a light show that plays along to music you listen to on your car radio. This year’s show includes eleven songs, including the MSU Fight Song along with the Christmas classics. More information and directions can be found at brownchristmaslightshow.com
Christmas Gift ideas for the hard-to-buy-for unique, fun gifts that they might not treasure forever, but are sure to make them giggle for a moment. For many people, Christmas According to popular gag gifts website is a day full of joy and happi- shcoon.com, popular gifts are the hog wild ness, a day to wake up and shower light (by changing the color of the open presents with your fam- shower water) as well as a Gangnam style iPily and/or friends. For some, hone case. They also offer iPhone virtual video though, as Christmas day ap- glasses, that lets you see videos in a whole new proaches, the stress of pick- way. ing the perfect gift takes Unlike the unique gift ideas by shcoon, away from the fun of it. gifts.com may be more helpful for ideas. Gifts. At The Voice, we say forget com has different categories for the recipient, about finding the perfect gift... price range, and even your personality. why put all that pressure on Gifts.com has a top picks section where a yourself? Instead, make nose shower dispenser is one of the top picks, them laugh. Go for the along with pretty Polaroid notecards. Other gag gift. Here are some things on the top picks portion for teens inplaces we’ve found for clude a huge bean bag for your future dorm room, a 26 Funny Christmas gifts you could get friends, pound gumfamily, and that special someone. Lindsay July Reporter
my python, and crochet headphones. No matter where you go to find ideas the thing you will see the most is iPhone, and iPod accessories. They have so many crazy ideas for your iThings. One crazy offering is an ‘80s retro iPhone case and handset, where you have your iPhone hooked to a corded phone. Some are even crazier like the iPhone booty call case with a butt as the case, or a pepper spray iPhone case. Squidoo.com has its own crazy ideas for Christmas. Ever seen “A Christmas Story”? Well a suggested idea of a Christmas gift is a leg lamp just like the one used in the movie. Other ideas include already-been-chewed gingerbread men cookie cutters, footie pajamas, and a game called Cards Against Humanity, which is certain to create laughter. These may not be practical ideas for
Christmas gifts, but they hopefully have you thinking about what to get the hard-to-buyfor person on your list.
Where to get your holiday gifts 1. The Party Python Gummy Snake http://www.incrediblethings. com/food/the-party-python-isa-26-pound-gummy-snake/ 2. Gangnam Style Phone Case http://www.squidoo.com/makeme-laugh-christmas, For many of the funny gifts listed; including Gangnam Style phone case 3. Super Hero Onesie http://laughingsquid.com/ caped-superman-batmanonesie-pajamas-for-grown-ups/
9 • The Voice • December 19, 2012 • myvikingvoice.com
Hindu students observe five-day Diwali celebration
Entertainment Christmas celebrations often include classic holiday movies Mikaela Jones Reporter With Christmas right around the corner, many students say their favorite thing to do is sit back and watch the good old classic Christmas movies that have been around since they were young, or new ones that they love. “When Christmas time comes around I get so excited because ABC family plays all of the great Christmas classics,” said senior Aneysa Rogers. How the Grinch Stole Christmas is a favorite of many. “I really don’t know why I love How the Grinch Stole Christmas but I do,” said Junior Deja Cannon. “The best part is when the Grinch is a baby, he was just too cute.” Almost every kid likes being left home alone, but to be left alone on Christmas isn’t so fun, but in all of the Home Alone
movies they make the best of it. “I watch this movie every chance I get because I can picture myself doing some of the things he does in that type of situation,” said junior Jade Thompson. Another favorite is The Santa Clause, where the Tim Allen has to become Santa for the night and finish delivering presents. “I love the part when he makes the original Santa fall off of the house and he becomes worried and realizes he has to become Santa,” said Junior Nique Wilson. In a recent poll on The Voice Facebook page, readers were asked to choose between seven Christmas movies. A Christmas Story was the top vote-getter, with Home Alone close behind. Third place went to Elf, followed by The Polar Express and How the Grinch Stole Christmas. This Christmas managed one vote, and Jingle All the Way found no love with zero.
Where to get your St. Nick quick fix
‘The Hobbit’ brings joy to many Lord of the Rings fans afterwards. Most people who are excited to see it are huge fans of the Lord of the Rings series. Have you ever “The book is awebeen so excited about some,” said senior Jalen a movie coming out Hauser. “I’m a big fan.” that you bought tickSenior Ian Potter is ets early, got all the another fan of the book. merchandise, and He hopes the movie can planned on seeing live up to the hype. it at the very first “I think the movie will showing? That’s be just like the book,” said how some Everett Potter. “Some will probably fans of The Hobbit be left out, though.” Even feel. those who have not read The Hobbit the book are excited for the is a prequel to movie. the three Lord of “It looks like [it’s going the Rings films, to be] a very good movie,” said which were The Hobbit opened F senior Ryan Locke. riday released 2001- play through Christmas , and will Not everyone will be linbreak. 2003. Part one of The Hobbit is ing up for a midnight showing, being released in December and part two and though. three are due out in 2013 and 2014. “I don’t really care about it,” said senior Some movie theaters are having a Lord Myloc Ngyuen “It’s just a movie.” of the Rings marathon before the premiere of Tickets are available for purchase at CelThe Hobbit. ebration cinema and NCG cinemas. They can Fans will watch all three Lord of the be purchased online at celebrationcinema. Rings movies, followed by The Hobbit right com and ncgmovies.com. Brooke Burns Entertainment Editor
Fan reaction mixed to Bieber/Gomez split rumors Anissa Dawsey. Others say Justin and Selena had a good relationship, but at the same time Are you wondering what is happening fame could have gotten to them. with everyone’s favorite celebrity couple “Maybe Justin’s fame is too much for Justin Bieber and Selena Gomez? It has Selena,” said junior Tapara Simmons. been rumored that Justin and Selena ofA majority of students that have been ficially broke up. There have been many interviewed had no idea that Justin and different reports claiming different stories, Selena broke up. “They broke up? They so it is difficult to say what exactly hapwere so cute,” said pened between them. Rebecca Rosa“Because of les. their crazy schedDespite ules, it was getall the fame ting harder and and all the harder to mainthings gotain a relationing on in this ship,” a source told young couple’s E! News reporter life, people still Marc Malkin. Many of have faith in them and Justin’s Twitter fans claim their hope they will work out. relationship was a scam in the first Since the reported breakplace. up, the The couple Justin Bieber and selena gomez have been couple has themselves may dating for around 2 years. Rumors of their been seen not be sure where breakup quickly spread throughout Twitter out togeththey stand, or and Facebook. er, even just aren’t talkholding ing about it to hands. This the press. In a recent interview with Ryan fits with senior Guadalupe Gonzalez’s feelSeacrest, Justin states, “I don’t know what’s ing that they are going through a normal going on right now.” up-and-down relationship. Some people are feeling bittersweet “They are young, so it is normal for about their relationship. “I like him so I them to break up, but they will likely get am kind of glad, but I want him to be hap- back together,” said Gonzalez. py and she made him happy,” said junior
10 • The Voice • December 19, 2012 • myvikingvoice.com
Damira Begic Photo Editor
The Grinch, ABC Family. Dec. 24 7:00 pm National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, ABC Family. Dec. 24 12:00 am Fred Claus, ABC Family. Dec. 23 12:30 pm The Polar express, ABC Family. Dec. 23 5:00 pm Mickey’s once upon a Christmas, ABC Family. Dec. 22 7:00 am Santa Claus is Comin’ to town, ABC Family. Dec. 22. 5:00 pm Santa Baby, ABC Family. Dec. 21 1:00 pm The Santa Clause, ABC Family. Dec. 21 9:00 pm Disney’s a Christmas carol, ABC Family. Dec. 20 7:00 pm 12 Dates of Christmas, ABC Family. Dec. 20 5:00 pm
Entertainment
Everett’s day of infamy to be revisited in ‘Murder at Locker 069’ Janelle Lewis Reporter
‘Call of Duty: Black Ops 2’ gives gamers chance to fight zombies and more Tara Phan Reporter
“Murder at Locker 069” tells the story of one of the country’s first school shootings, that happened at Everett. Roger Needham (left) brought a gun to school and killed Bill Draher (right) and injured another student. (Photos courtesy Everett Archives.) “It was a very low time for Everett’s history but a lot of students would like to learn more about their school,” said Allen. Having Tryouts: week of a school showing will also be extra practice Jan. 14 or 21 for the cast before a public showing. Dates and times for auditions will be Parts available: at least posted shortly. Listen for more information seven or eight speakduring school.
Murder at Locker 069
ing parts available
Performance: February 22
TV favorites range from super-silly to super-gross Lindsay July Reporter Watching TV is one of the main things students do after school. When it comes to the two main genres students watch, it’s all about the guts. Either their shows action or suspense shows full of guts and gore, or they’re laughing their guts out with a silly comedy. These genres fit into TV shows such as The Walking Dead, The Big Bang Theory, and even Spongebob Squarepants. One show filled with gore is The Walking Dead. This show is about police officer Rick Grimes leading a group of survivors in a world overrun by zombies. “You should watch [The Walking Dead] because it has great action in it and if you like how characters develop throughout the show then you should watch it,” said senior Vedad Omervic. Omervic didn’t mention that the show also features many scenes of severed limbs, disembowelments, and smashed zombie heads. It’s not one to watch while eating. For the students who are entertained by flesh eating zombies, The Walking Dead airs Sundays at 9pm on AMC. If you’re not into zombies and consider yourself a brainiac, your gut may be telling you laughter is in order. The Big Bang Theory is the show for you. This show is about a woman who moves into an apartment next door to two brilliant but socially awkward physi-
cists, and shows them how little they know about life outside of the laboratory. “You should watch [The Big Bang Theory] because it’s funny and you can learn something,” said Senior Rebecca Walzak. Students that love to learn and laugh can watch The Big Bang Theory Mondays on CBS at 8:30 pm. Those who still need the laughter that comes straight from the gut, but don’t want to think that hard, old standby Spongebob Squarepants is the show for you.This show is about the misadventures of a fastfood restaurant working sponge who lives under the sea with his best friend Patrick. “You should watch [Spongebob] because it’s funny and better than most TV shows,” said freshman Isaac Flamand. People who love Spongebob will find this show on Nickelodeon. Another show people reading this story might want to check out? Reruns of My Family’s Got Guts are available on Nick.com.
Do you like to go on missions? Shoot zombies? Play competitively? The release of Black Ops II on November 13 for Playstation 3 and Xbox 360 will give you the perfect chance to do just that. Full of action and shooting, it’s giving players a chance to reconnect with (online) friends and to kick butt! Every November, another part of the sequels to Call of Duty is released. It comes with mini games, like fighting endless waves of zombies. “It’s addictive, entertaining, and nerve wrecking,” said senior Mohamed Husein. In general, guys are much more excited for it than the majority of the girls. “I didn’t really care for it, I don’t understand why they were all happy for just a game,” said senior Des’Manique Day. Many boys from Everett said that guys feel differently about it. “It’s the vibe they feel when they play it, something they can get into and take their feelings out on,” said senior Manny Mirales. In Black Ops, there are multiple game modes. “Single player, campaign, multiplay-
Call of Duty, Black Ops II released on November 13. The M-rated game is popular with people of ages. ers and then zombies,” explained senior Sum Huynh. Multiplayer is played online with people all over the world and there are different modes where players can be on a team or alone. Campaign is a single-person story mode. In Zombies, players go through different maps trying to figure out clues and an adventurous quest while killing zombies. This game is different from the other COD games, because it plays more in the future, the year 2025. “Call of Duty is one of the top three franchises in video games,” said senior Khalil Young. Since its first release, it has always been one of the top selling games among teens and young adults.
Vampire saga concludes with ‘Twilight: Breaking Dawn, Part 2’ the Cullens’ cousin sees Renesmee floating, catching snowflakes, she assumes the Cullens have committed a crime by turning a child Making over $340 million globally, Twi- into a vampire, making that child immortal. light: Breaking Dawn, Part 2 is the number She runs to the head of the Volturi, Aro, and one movie in theaters. It picks up where part tells him what she saw. He is outraged and 1 leaves off: Bella Swan died while giving plans on fighting the Cullens and birth to her half-blood killing Renesmee. When Alice sees baby, Renesmee. a vision of the Volturi coming, Bella's true love, she warns the family. They gather Edward Cullen, many other vampires from turned her into a around the world to witness vampire in order to that Renesmee was born while bring her back to life. Bella was still human. After Bella wakes up, The Volturi still come to she tests out her new see for themselves, and that’s abilities and is labeled when things get tense. The the strongest vampire in fighting scenes are exciting the house. Minus the bad and build up all kinds of special effects, the movie emotions inside. If you was filled with excitement read the book, you may and surprises. have an idea of how the Part 2 movie ends, with a twist The special effects were , n w its g Da horrible. Baby Renesmee Breakin 41 million in that left many sur1 $ e end. didn't come across as a real mad prised. The action in the k e e w ing baby. She looked like a com- open end made up for the poor special effects on puter designed animation. However, within Renesmee as a baby. The last half hour is filled the first 20 minutes of the movie, she is the with thrill, surprises, and shocking moments. size of an eight-year-old with the powers to But to give away the huge twist would give float in mid air and make someone see the away the enjoyment of the movie. truth by just touching their cheek. When 4 out of 5 stars. Deanera Barrow Reporter
11 • The Voice • December 19, 2012 • myvikingvoice.com
School shootings such as those at Columbine, Virginia Tech and Texas A&M are shocking, and make big news. Many see the coverage and think that school shootings are a recent thing. But February 22, 1978 Everett High School made national headlines when it experienced its own school shooting. Not many people know about this event in the school’s history, but that’s going to change. “Murder at Locker 069,” a drama about the event, will be performed by the theater department in February. The play was written by Everett history and English teacher Richard Helder. Theater teacher Jim Allen said he thought this production would be a great chance to tell the story about the shooting. “It’s a part of Everett’s history, so I thought it would be a good idea to show the public,” said Allen. Auditions will be held before Christmas Break for all students who are interested in telling the story of this tragic event. Allen and Helder will be having meetings this week to discuss further plans in the play. There will possibly be a school showing of “Murder at Locker 069” just for students and staff during the school day.
NEW RELEASES
SPORTS
Former NBA player Desmond Ferguson is new head coach Everett (under coach Jones) in 1995 and then went on to the University of Missouri. After his freshman year, Ferguson transferred to the Winning the 1977 class A state champi- University of Detroit Mercy. onship led by former NBA player and Hall of Four years after his college career ended, Famer Earvin “Magic” Johnson put the Vi- Ferguson’s NBA dreams came true when he kings boys’ basketball team on the map. signed a 10-day contract with the Portland In 2004, the Everett boys were back on Trail Blazers on March 26, 2004. the map as one of the best basketball programs During that 10-day contract, Ferguson to attend when they won the Class A state title played in seven games, shot 42% from the again. This time around, the Vikings were led field (5 of 12) and scored 13 total points for by legendary coach Johnny Jones. the Trail Blazers on 32 minutes played. But for the past four years, the team “The best part of my NBA experience was has a record of 10-74. The actually getting the opportunities drought may in part be due to play against future Hall of Famto it being the end of coach ers such as Kobe, Shaq, Tim DunJones’ career (the girls teams can, Gary Payton, Karl Malone, he coached also won two Carmelo Anthony, etc. and to gain state championships). It may the respect of my teammates and be due to a lack of talent, or peers,” said Ferguson. focus. It may be a combinaNow back home, Ferguson is tion of those things. What- Ferguson played at looking to follow in the footsteps ever the reason, new head Everett in 1995. of his high school mentor. coach Desmond Ferguson hopes to turn the “It’s a dream come true to have the opprogram around. And, according to Ferguson, portunity to coach at my alma mater and to the change will come soon. be able to follow a legend in coach Jones,” said “The guys have been committed to work- Ferguson. ing hard and bringing back a good brand of As a coach, Ferguson says that he cannot basketball that historically Everett is known “coach effort.” He expects his players to want for,” said Ferguson. “As a coach, I just try to do to play hard when they step on the court. the best I can to prepare them to be success“Go as hard as you can for as long as ful on the basketball court and in life. With you can” is what he tells his players, meaning hard work, I believe we can achieve both,” said for them to play their hardest for as long as Ferguson. they can and then come out when they need Ferguson knows basketball. He played for a break.
Sophia Williams
Lucas Barner Sports Editor
New head coach Desmond Ferguson coaches his team during his coaching debut against Williamston. The Vikings went on to win the game 65-55.
Canty makes history as first Everett player to make AllState Dream Team
Everett bowler hopes to play for Bethune-Cookman next year
COURTESY MARCELLE CARRUTHERS
Jaleel Canty prepares to go to the All-State Dream Team banquet with head football coach Marcelle Carruthers. Jaleel Canty walks to the field with his team on Senior Night against the Grand Ledge Comets. Canty has committed to the University of Cincinnati for the fall.
HALEY BUSKULIC
12 • The Voice • December 19, 2012 • myvikingvoice.com
of her meets in January, and fly her and her mother down to Florida. “I was very excited,” said Radcliff. “I was Senior Khadijah Radcliff is being considthinking, ‘wow he wants to come all the way ered for the bowling team at Bethune-Cookfrom Florida to see me.’” man University. Her mom was very proud of her daughter Radcliff attended the and her accomplishments. school on the black college “I am very proud of “I felt great tour in November. While Kahdijah, she is the first getting there, she filled out an appliin my immediate family to cation and got accepted. actually go to college right accepted “I felt great getting acafter high school,” said Ms. into Bethune- Radcliff. cepted into Bethune-Cookman,” said Radcliff. “Who Staff are also proud of Cookman,” wouldn't want to live in Kahdijah. Daytona Beach?” “I think she’s a great said Radcliff. About a week after the student athlete representablack college tour, Radc- “Who wouldn’t tive at Everett,” said athletic liff got in contact with the director Cindy Short. “We want to live bowling coach via email and are proud of her accomplishhe responded to her right ments.” in Daytona away. Now, Radcliff is waiting Beach?” “I was like oh wow, that for the coach to watch her was fast!” said Radcliff. bowl, and see what happens While talking via email she had to fill out from there. a questionnaire with basic information. A few The best case would be a trip to Florida, days later, the bowling coach called and they and a scholarship offer. talked for about an hour about the team, and “I expect to go far, I want to go pro,” said answered all the questions she had. Radcliff. “But pro bowling or not, I will have “He was really cool,” said Radcliff. a successful future.” The coach said he would come to one Brittany Harris Reporter
Lucas Barner Sports Editor Lansing Everett wide receiver/defensive back Jaleel Canty was selected to the Detroit Free Press All-State Dream Team for the 2012 season at defensive back. “Just to be acknowledged with some of the best in Michigan feels good to know that all my hard work paid off,” said Canty. The dream team consists of the top 22 players across the entire state, from all of the eight divisions. “We’ve had all-state football players in the past, but never a dream team member,” said head football coach Marcelle Carruthers. Canty may be the first dream-team member on an Everett football team, but he’s not the only one that walks the Everett hallways. Carruthers was named to the All-State dream team his senior year for Lansing Eastern in 1982. He then went on and played four more years for Central Michigan University. According to MHSAA Second Half editor Geoff Kimmerly, Carruthers is considered by many the best quarterback, maybe even best player to come out of the Lansing area. Canty will also be included in the LSJ All-Area Dream Team as a DB and the “Catch 22,” a ranking of the state’s top players. The AllArea group is a team made up of the top players in the mid-Michigan area, as decided by the LSJ. The “Catch 22” list is a statewide ranking of the top 22 players, decided by sports reporter Dennis Schwarze and two or three other members of the LSJ sports team. Carruthers is happy for Canty, but also would like to see his record stand. “We want Jaleel under 13 because someone close to the players (Carruthers) was number 13 in 1982,” said Carruthers.
He also does not focus on the offensive side of the ball as much as the defensive side. He believes that the team should let their defense create their offense and that if they play with a high level of intensity, they will create many turnovers that will lead to points. “It will take us being a strong defensive team, night in and night out and for us to play together as a team. We do that and everything else will take care of itself,” said Ferguson. Basketball is not the only thing coach Ferguson focuses on, though. He also focuses on academics. Every Wednesday and Thursday you can find the team sitting in the special dining room studying or doing homework from 4-5:15 pm. “I think he’s a great coach because he’s been there every day since last season ended and takes time out of his day for his players. He’s just very involved,” said senior shooting guard Xavier Brown. That involvement comes with expectations. If his players work hard, the coach knows the wins will come. “Coach Ferguson expects us win 15 or 16 games,” said senior small forward Darren Kimbrough. Both Brown and Kimbrough said that Ferguson expects them to play with a high level of intensity, work their hardest and be dedicated. “We need to play together and be a family,” said Brown.