The Commodore Cruiser March2016

Meditate with Chris Long on page 10 March 2016

What’s the “F” word? page 8 & 9

Prom Prep, page 4

the

Volume 50, Issue 5

Commodore Cruiser

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ THE LAFAYETTE HIGH SCHOOL NEWSPAPER

@DORESCRUISER _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Dores’ Decision

by Audrey Tapp

A new president will be elected later this year. The Republican convention will take place July 18-21, 2016 in Cleveland, Ohio and the Democratic convention will be held the following week in Philadelphia, Penn. Here are the final five candidates and who would be in the White House if Lafayette High School voted today.

Republican

Ted Cruz

Republican

John Kasich

Republican candidate Donald Trump continues to lead the 2016 Presidential Election by an large amount of votes.

Trump is an American businessman, politician, television actor, and what most people know him by, a Republican candidate.

Trump was born on June 14, 1946 (69) in Queens, New York. Trump has partaken in three marriages and has five children. Trump attended Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania for his education.

Republican candidate Ted Cruz runs in second place in the 2016 Presidential Election.

Cruz may be in second place now, but he undeniably still has the potential to become the Republican’s 2016 winner.

Cruz was born on December 22, 1970 (45) in Calgary, Canada. Cruz has two children with his only wife Heidi Cruz.

Cruz received his education from Harvard Law School, and Woodrow Wilson School of Public and International Affairs.

Current governor of Ohio, first elected in 2010 and relected in 2014, and current candidate in the 2016 Presidential Election, John Kasich presently runs third in this years election.

Kasich was born on May 13, 1952 (63) in Mckees Rocks, Penn. Kasich has engages in two marriages and has two children. Kasich attended Ohio State University. Kasich is currently the governor of Ohio and previously performed as a U.S. Representative (1983-2001) and an Ohio State Senator (1979-1983).

Donald Trump

Republican

Hillary Clinton Bernie Sanders Democrat

Democrat

Democratic candidate Hillary Clinton currently hold the winning nominations by many votes. Clinton is currently the Secretary of State and a democratic candidate in the 2016 Presidential Election.

Clinton was born on October 26, 1947 (69) in Chicago, Ill. Clinton has one child with her spouse Bill Clinton. Clinton attended Yale Law School for her education. Clinton has also received numerous awards.

Democratic candidate Bernie Sanders is an American politician and the junior United States senator from Vermont.

Sanders is a current participant in the 2016 Presidential Election.

Sanders was born on September 8, 1941 (74) in Brooklyn, New York. Sanders has partaken in two marriages and has no children.

32% 29% 4% 17% 18%

STUDENT NEWS The Commodore Cruiser Lafayette High School 160 Commodore Dr. Oxford, MS 38655 (662) 234-3614 Staff Natalie Boone Brock Burge Barrett Childress Hailey Edwards Thomas Hinton Olivia Howie Javieus Lyons Destiny Mooneyham Mary Kate Newman La’Keirra Owens Brook Savage Katie Sicks Audrey Tapp Editorial Policy The views and opinions expressed in this paper are of an editorial nature and do not necessarily represent the views of the Cruiser staff, advisors, school faculty, or administrators of the Lafayette County School District.

Guest editorials may be submitted to the Cruiser and will be published according to available space and relevance. Annonymous submissions will not be considered.

THE COMMODORE CRUISER

2

Your Guide To The ACT

by Olivia Howie

It’s the exam that determines the future of high school students nationwide. A one point difference in a student’s score can lead to getting into their top college or their second choice.

The ACT tests the knowledge of students in four multiple-choice sections. These include english, reading, mathematics, and science; furthermore, a writing section is offered but not mandatory for students to complete.

All four sections are scored on a scale of 1 to 36, depending on how many questions are answered correctly. The writing section is different from the rest of the ACT because it is scored on a scale of 1 to 6 by two essay graders. These

two scores are then added up

resulting in a score of 2 to 12.

A composite score is the average of all sections. When colleges offer scholarships

based on ACT scores, they are usually referring to the composite score.

Before starting each section of the ACT, read the directions carefully. Do not confuse the mathematics directions with the reading directions or visa versa. Likewise, read every question thoroughly.

A common worry among students is managing the time given. To feel less overwhelmed, wear a watch to the testing center to keep track of how much time you have left on each section. Just make sure it does not beep, flash or do anything that could potentially disturb other students.

On the day of the ACT, bring at least two sharpened No. 2 pencils. Make sure the erasers work and do not smudge.

On difficult questions, use

the elimination strategy to get rid of as many incorrect answers as possible. Then, make an educated guess from the remaining choices.

If time is about to be called and there are questions that are not answered, guess on them. There is no penalty for guessing and, who knows, some might be correct!

“Definitely study the material and get a full night of rest before the test” says sophomore Halee Pate Russom, who took the test for the first time in February of this year.

More than anything, one should be confident in their abilities when taking the ACT. Although the test is heavily weighted by some schools and universities, it does not determine the intelligence of an individual as a whole.

speech. The right to speak includes the right not to speak, as well as the right to wear buttons or t-shirts expressing support for a cause.” However,

It is encouraged for participants to talk with their teachers ahead of time, for they are more likely to be able to remain silent during class.

What makes Day of Silence different from other LGBT events?

“Day of Silence is not a day of celebration as that of a Gay Pride Parade. It is a day of mourning and remembrance for all those that committed suicide and experienced discrimination due to who they are and who they love,” said Creed Brown. “It is a day that should be treated with respect.”

Shhhhhhhh...

by Natalie Boone “The Day of Silence is a way to remember those that got the bad deal on trying to be who they are and how they are not forgotten,” said Creed Brown.

The Day of Silence is a student-led national event that brings attention to anti-LGBT name-calling, bullying, and harassment in schools. Students take a vow of silence in an effort to encourage schools and classmates to address the problem of homophobic behavior by illustrating the silencing effect of bullying and harassment on LGBT students and those perceived to be LGBT. This year, the Day of Silence will take place on April 15th, 2016. Given that Lafayette High

School has a scheduled holiday on April 15th, the students of Lafayette that wish to participate will do so on April 14th.

Rules While you do have a right to participate in the Day of Silence between classes and before/after school, you may not have the right to stay silent during instructional time if a teacher requests for you to speak. According to Lambda Legal, “Under the Constitution, public schools must respect a student’s right to free

MARCH 2016

this right to free speech does not extend to classroom time.

“If a teacher tells a student to answer a question during class, the student generally doesn’t have a constitutional right to refuse to answer.”

STUDENT NEWS

THE COMMODORE CRUISER

3

Why Kill the Tunes Dude?

by Brook Savage You see, everyone in the world has their own taste in music. Some love music more than others, some just call it noise. The question is ‘Why do people get to walk around the school playing music through speakers, but when spotted with headphones in our ears we are ushered to take them out?’

Lafayette High School of course has this happen every single day, music addicts that are not trying to break the rules but simply just reacting to a habit. Dr. Kitchens along with Mr. Crockett enforce the “No Headphone” policy strictly for our safety at Lafayette.

Teachers, Principals, or any adult care about kid safety.

The “No Headphone” policy

is not used to enrage students but only to make them know that the teachers need to keep these kids safe; therefore headphones should not be used in school.

Headphones are now made with high quality speakers, well some, that block out background noise when the volume is at its highest.

Fire alarms, tornado drills, lock down calls, or any emergency would not be

heard through the music span of “Work” to “Sorry.” Even if an adult tries to talk to you when your headphones are shoved thumb deep in your ears, you still will not be able to hear their demands.

Going back to the speaker issue, Dr. Kitchens is serious about keeping your own music taste to yourself. “I can’t al-

ways be in the right place at the right time. When I start to go one way the speaker will cut off. It’s like a little game students like to play,” he says. Dr. Kitchens tries his best to keep all of the students here “in line” but still interacts with the students as if he is a close friend.

Wrapping up this story, just listen to the adult and don’t use your headphones in school.

Wait till the bus to drown out those little children that you just do not want to listen to.

two weeks, Lafayette High raised $662.53 for Pennies for Patients. Those generous donations will go straight to going to finding a cure for these two diseases. The National Honor Society was asked by Lafayette Upper Elementary School to participate in the drive. After

being asked to help, the NHS decided to make it a competition between the two schools.

Mrs. Bullard, NHS adviser said, “We are so proud of our students and teachers for their contributions and participation.” All of the money that was raised between

Be the first to find the Commodore and turn it into Room 35 after 3rd period for a prize!

Change For Change

by Barrett Childress The random change between your couch cushions could be used to h e l p save a life of someo n e that is struggling with Leukemia or Lymphom a .

T h e National Honor Society at Lafayette High School is collecting change to donate to Pennies for Patients.

Lymphoma is a cancer that affects the lymph system. It affects one’s immune system and

starts in the white blood cells.

Leukemia is a cancer of the blood cells.

Both diseases can be treated by a medical professional.

All of the change that has been collected since 1994 has averaged to be millions of dollars to go to research. Over ten million schools throughout the United States have raised that money. Lafayette High School has been able to partake in funding research for these diseases.

Over the course of

MARCH 2016

the two schools will be donated to help thousands of people receive treatment for leukemia and lymphoma.

STUDENT NEWS

THE COMMODORE CRUISER

4

A Night to Remember

by Katie Sicks Dress after dress is tried on to find the perfect one to make teenagers prom night the best, especially those who are seniors. Prom is every high school girl’s dream to go to, they dream about the perfect date and look forward to having a night to dress up and go all out.

However, will doing so empty your bank account? Hmmm.

Teenagers spend hundreds of dollars on prom each year, which the boutiques and hair/ nail salons, and stores don’t

mind. Gender could make a huge difference during prom time, cost wise. Girls pay for their nails, makeup, and hair to be done not including the cost of the dress and shoes. Boys get their shoes, suits, and maybe a few things to make the night memorable. So, the question is how much is all the stuff to prepare for prom for each gender.

Prom is to come April 16, 2016, but Mrs.McCoy had already began to think about it in October. McCoy likes to have

the theme figured out usually before December. Whether it is the students helping pick the theme or if it is just her choosing it. Some ask why such an early deadline for tickets, do consider the fact of that is where the prom budget comes from.

The trend now is short dresses, but what was the evolution that has led up to this trend? When McCoy was in highschool, the trend was long dresses. It went from long dresses, to mainly short tutu

dresses. Not only has the dresses changed, but so has the location. When McCoy was in highschool they had their prom places like a boat on the Mississippi River to just simply the Lafayette Commons. The point is that prom has changed drastically as year by year go by.

Students know what you can and cannot wear to school everyday, but what about the dress code for prom? The manual, as of right now, says girls will wear dresses and boys will

wear tuxedos. So far McCoy has not had somebody come approach her about whether they are allowed to wear clothing that is meant for a different gender. McCoy said she has seen girls wear tuxedos with tighter pants and a tighter shirt that way it is better suited for a girl to wear. However, if somebody were to show up wearing the clothing for the opposite sex, than the minastration would be in charge of handling it.

teacher is teaching, show them patience and respect.

Todd Sheffield

Nikki Pilmer

“Ever since I was little, I don’t know why but whenever they asked what I wanted to be, my answer was always teacher.”

“My mom was a teacher and seeing her helping students and making a difference in people’s lives made me want to become a teacher.”

New Additions by: Javieus Lyons

LHS students may look at student teachers and only see another person to be on their case and when they try and teach us we become impatient and irritated because we, as students, are used to someone more experienced.

Student teachers come to this school to learn how to teach and instruct students. Since most of them are only in their early twenties, standing in front of an entire class of kids only two years older, can be quite scary.

LHS is lucky to have people who care enough about teaching others and making a dif-

ference in another person’s life.

So next time you’re in class and your student

left to right: Stevie-Ann Wright, Todd Sheffield, Tyler James, and Nikki Pilmer

MARCH 2016

STUDENT NEWS

THE COMMODORE CRUISER

5

Justice for Conservative Court Judge

by Brock Burge

Antonin Scalia, 79, was found dead in his room on February 13, 2016. Nothing was out of place in his room so that indicated that he died from natural causes.

He had arrived at the luxury hunting ranch the night before and notified his friends

that he was not feeling well.

When his buddies noticed that he didn’t come for breakfast,

Junior Spotlight

by La’Keirra Owens Laurah Biery, 17, really short, long beautiful hair, and pretty blue eyes. Born and raised in Kentucky, she moved to Colorado for a year, and then decided to settle in Oxford, Miss. She has one brother and two sisters, her parents are still happily married and have been going strong for 25 years.

Staying on the topic of love, Biery has a new boyfriend name Harrison Atkinson. “On Valentine's Day, he came over because we were going shopping in Tupelo, and when I opened the truck door, strapped in the seat was a stuffed giraffe, my favorite chocolate and a card asking me to be his valentine and his girlfriend. It was really cute and I love my giraffe.” Look’s like there’s a gentlemen at Lafayette

High School, that’s a surprise because you really don’t see many of them around.

With her senior year right around the corner, Biery is already thinking about attending the University of Kentucky.

S h e knows how to catch a p e r s o n ’s attention, as she can speak two different languages including French and Spanish.

Tanning, running, and being outdoors is what she likes to do in spare time, because Biery does it all. If she’s not out with her friends eating Thai food, she’s laying in her house watching Madea movies. Biery’s future plans are to one day be a radiologist and get married and have children.

something was wrong. His friends wouldn’t claim he was dead because they believed it was the authority’s job to do that.

At first they thought it was the pillow over his head that had killed the Supreme Court Judge but they later found out that this did not cause his death.

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His breathing machine was not hooked up to him properly and was not on when they found him. The FBI does not know how he died but they know that no one had killed him. His friends claim that he wasn’t in any danger there and he had no reason to die.

The President still has not chosen a new Supreme Court Judge, but here are a few names rumored to be selected: Paul Watford, Sri Srinivasan, Loretta Lynch, Patricia Ann, and Merrick Garland. But of those candidates we don’t know who will be selected as of now. When the new Court

Judge is selected, the public will not know because it is the president’s choice of when and if he chooses a new one.

The choice of the New Supreme Court Justice will most likely not be decided until a new president is decided and is in office. If the new President is a democrat then it is more likely that the seat will be filled by a liberal. If the new President is a Republican then it will more than likely be a Republican filling the seat. The election of the president really impacts how the Supreme court will further play out either being Democratic or Republican.

STUDENT NEWS

THE COMMODORE CRUISER

6

Successful Once Again

by Destiny Mooneyham Cadets fall into formation, standing at attention, and ready to compete. Energy courses through their veins as they prepare to dominate the opposition.

The cadets march forward and listen to their commander as he calls out the commands. When they halt, they only hope they don’t fall over flat onto their faces. Once they are through with the sequence the crowd erupts into applause, sending the cadets away with hope of victory.

Ricky Keisling, the Corp Commander, of Lafayette High School JROTC says, “The competition went well, we won plenty of categories. Rosa Fort has really stepped up their game since we were there last.

But ultimately, our teams did excellent and put a lot of work

and hours into their teams. In addition, Rosa Fort was the competition where we rotat-

are never perfect, they always have their flaws and weak spots.

Just small bits here and there

ed in all new commanders, so those brand new commanders doing so well is a feat in itself.”

Keisling pauses, “Drill teams

really could be fixed. The only problem here recently is that attendance numbers for practice are dropping fast. Other

er the fact that some people might be juggling to do both?

Students sometimes need to help support their family and in order to do that it means getting a job to help pay bills, and keep food on the table. Other times maybe they just need some money

of their own. This might be a struggle to some teenagers or it might not be, depending on your situation.

Some are overdriven by the time they get home all they manage to have time for is do their homework quickly and to jump in and out of the

School by Day, Work by Night

extracurricular activities tend to conflict with practices and force many cadets to choose which one to go to.”

Despite the tough competition the cadets faced, they still did great placing 2nd in Unarmed Regulation, 2nd in Saber Team, 3rd in Armed Exhibition, and 1st in Tandem.

All teams worked really hard preparing for their victory, and it paid off.

Ryan Watts, the Armed Regulation and Armed Exhibition Commander, said “We could have practiced a little more, my armed teams,

but I’m still proud of the effort that they gave.” Watts says that he became very worried in the middle of the Armed Exhibition sequence, when he dropped his rifle while twirling. He did drop his rifle, but he picked it up and went right back to what he was doing without breaking his military bearing. Perseverance, or determination, is something that pays off well in ROTC.

shower. However, that sometimes isn’t always the occasion. Some are okay, some are okay with a few days that are too busy, and others are just completely busy all the time.

Kevin Ray, a student who attends Lafayette High, goes to school and work. Ray claimed that his work doesn’t really affect him. “I usually get off at five, so that gives me plenty of time to get home and do all of my homework,” stated Ray. It could also depend on the job you do, Ray works at Shivers Towers.

Even though most days Ray does get home with enough time left on his hand some nights that isn’t the case.

“Sometimes it can get difficult, because if we have a big truck wreck at night I have to go in so that could cut me off

with some of my time with my school work,” Ray said.

Many students do this as part of their daily life, but not all struggle with it.

Whether it is a struggle all the time or part of the time, school can be stressful with work piled on along with it.

by: Katie Sicks

Students wake up to get to school before 7:40 everyday and leave around 3:03 every afternoon. Except what about those students who have to go straight to work after school? Teachers pile on homework for students every night, do they even consid-

MARCH 2016

OPINION

THE COMMODORE CRUISER

7

Think Before You Drink

by La’Keirra Owens Teen drinking is the most common thing that teens do in this world,according to the National Institutes of Health).

By the time children reach 8th grade, nearly fifty percent of adolescents have had at least one drink, and over twenty percent report having been “drunk”. Underage drinking is more likely to kill a person than any illegal drug combined.

Drinking & Driving: Motor vehicles crashes are the leading cause of deaths among youths ages 15-20. Adolescents already are increased risk through their relative lack of driving experience.

Suicide: Alcohol use interacts with conditions such as stress and depression,

this is the third leading cause of death for children between 14-25. Thirty-seven percent of females 8th graders who have drank heavily reported attempting suicide, compared to eleven percent who didn’t drink.

Some people may ask what can alcohol do to you? Well many people drink alcohol with any problems, but binge drinking or heavily drinking can lead up to serious damage. When alcohol is misused it can affect a person in many ways.

You may ask how?

Brain Damage: Binge drinking can cause memory loss, blackouts, and anxiety. When you been drinking for a long

time it could lead up to permanent brain damage, serious health problems.

Teenages brains are vulnerable because you are bacisally still in your teen year and your brain is still developing.

Alcohol can also affect your ability to learn and remember.

Cancer: Drinking alcohol is a big risk when it comes to cancer. You can have throat and mouth cancer. If you develop cirrhosis of the liver, you can develop liver cancer.

Julie Paul, a teacher at Lafayette Middle School, stated, “ It’s a terrible epidemic, and over the years I feel like drinking gets worse.”

Melissa Spinks, also a teacher at Lafayette Middle School, stated, “ The reason I didn’t drink was because I didn’t want to embarrass my family, and plus there were great expectations.”

Sixty-five percent of suicides have occurred from drinking and sventy percent of men have taken their own lives.

So my question to you is drinking worth your life? Why ruin your time in this world for a bottle of bad decisions. So after everything that’s been said, please do me a favor and THINK BEFORE YOU DRINK!

high school, which means it’s the time to reveal what is going on in minds now.

Just a few students from Lafayette High School have been chosen to represent the student body on who they think have it harder. The few students that were chosen consist of female, male students, and teachers.

For the girl’s side: “Girls have to have the baby.”

“Girls have periods.”

“Girls are more emotional than guys.”

“Girls are more limited by society.”

“Girls have to be “ladylike.”

For the guy’s side: “Guys die faster.”

“Guys have to do more.”

in the lead for who has it harder. Some students did not choose any side, also known as neutral, undecided, blank minded, or normal (normal is boring.)

Everyone has their own opinion so please do not take this the wrong way. If you feel the need to express your opinion to me, please just take the time to send me an e-mail.

The Big Debate

by Brook Savage

“That’s not ladylike,” or “Aren’t you supposed to be strong?” Starting back in grade school there has always been an argument on who has it harder. Boys or Girls? “Girls go to college to get more knowledge, boys go to Jupiter to get more stupider,” says almost every seven year old known to man.

People’s opinion changes throughout all of the years leading up to

Just a few quotes from regular students show what the majority of the chosen ones think. As you can tell from the answers listed above, girls are

COMPARING THE 2 TYPES OF HUMAN

Boys

Girls

MARCH 2016

OPINION

THE COMMODORE CRUISER

The “F” Word

8

by Thomas Hinton & Olivia Howie

A feminist.

An angry woman who doesn’t wear makeup and wants all men to be extracted off the face of the earth.

A wild beast with frizzy hair that runs free with a pitchfork.

A demonic entity from the deepest pits of the underworld. …NOT. “I think a lot of people don’t associate with being a feminist because it has a lot of negative connotation with the word,” shared cross-country star Julianna Mikell.

Feminism is defined as “the belief that men and women should have equal rights and opportunities.” So why would a word that describes a good thing have such a negative connotation?

“I lot of people probably think of feminazis when they hear the word,” Mikell said, “Feminazis don’t want equality. They want to be higher up than men. They don’t get the word.”

Mikell has spent a lot of time educating others on what feminism is and believes the biggest challenge of 21st century feminism is just being taken seriously. Legally, women are equal men. But socially, there are so many pressures placed on ideals for women, from the way they act even down to what they wear. “It’s not as bad as it was in the early 1900s with the suffragettes,” she said, “but we’re still not where we need to be.”

Mikell acknowledges that sexism has an impact men as well. “There’s a lot of bad stuff

about guys wearing makeup, and wearing traditionally feminine things,” Mikell said. This is a major red button for the cross-country star, who turns to the masculine beauty of Hollywood actors to reveal the hypocrisy. “Whenever I hear someone say something, I ask them who their favorite male actor is,” Mikell explained, “Those actors and singers are wearing makeup.”

“Honestly, I think of lot of guys in this school could use makeup,” she giggled.

In addition to appearance, Mikell has encountered what she calls “lowkey sexism” when it comes to her achievements as an athlete.

“I got a letterman jacket for doing cross country,” she said.

Everyone would ask her who the letterman jacket belonged to, suggesting she might have borrowed it from a male friend or boyfriend. “It’s my letterman jacket. I can do sports,” she declared.

Male Perspective Men. They are supposed to be strong, emotionless, and aggressive. Basically, masculine.

I’m none of those things.

Physically I’m a twig, even though I workout almost everyday, I’m very open with my emotions, and I’m the least aggressive person I know. Does that make me any less of a man? Absolutely not.

Because I didn’t live up to these standards, I was bullied constantly throughout middle school. People pushed me down in the hallways and called me

horrible names because I was in choir. I quit singing, hoping that maybe the bullying would stop. It didn’t. I love getting in front of people, and moved from choir to drama club.

The bullying got worse because acting, apparently, wasn’t masculine either. I found that ridiculous because acting was initially a male dominated field, with it being illegal for women to act for hundreds of years. I wasn’t going to quit, so I did do the most masculine thing I could think of: I joined the tennis team.

But tennis was “for girls.”

That just blew my mind. I couldn’t understand how certain clubs or sports could be classified as masculine or feminine.

If it was something I enjoyed doing, why did it matter to other people? Why were they so concerned with what I was doing, that they had to take time out of their day to put me down? How did the clubs and sports I was involved in even get genders in the first place?

Sexism hurts everyone, male or female. I call myself feminist because I never want anyone to ever be ridiculed because they don’t live up to society’s expectations of their sex.

Female Perspective Women. They are constantly being portrayed in the media as being weak, emotional, and submissive. In other words, feminine. But, are these so called “qualities” even relevant in today’s society?

I am a female, but I am not

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a damsel in distress. I am a female, and I am strong. I am a female, and I am capable. So, why do women earn, on average, 78 cents for every man’s dollar?

“Are you sure that skirt isn’t too short?” “Are you sure that blouse isn’t too revealing?”

These are questions all too familiar to me and many others.

Yes, modesty is a factor here, but safety is also a concern.

Unfortunately, we live in a world where girls and women are advised not to walk alone at night. We live in a society

where it is not uncommon to carry a can of pepper spray on the first date. We live in a world where we are told to “cover it up” so that the guys do not get any “ideas.”

“Boys will be boys” does not excuse disrespectful behavior towards women. Cat calling and harassment are never compliments. Frankly, it’s creepy and makes you look desperate and pathetic.

Feminism should be No. Big. Deal. Gender equality should be a given, not something that is seen as a radical movement.

Julianna Mikell flashes her winning smile after an intense run.

OPINION

THE COMMODORE CRUISER

9

What does feminism mean to you?

A survey with this question was sent out to the entire student body. Here are some of the responses: “Ignorance.”

“Feminism is believing that females and males are equal and deserve the same treatment.”

“Opinionated people who don’t know how to enjoy the roles God made.”

“It’s a joke, just like this school.”

“Supporting women in all aspects.”

“Woman-like.”

“Feminism means having equal rights between men and women. It means recognizing that members of each sex have problems (some big, some small) with predetermined ideas of what makes them more masculine and more feminine. Feminism is important to me, as a woman, because I don’t want to see anyone being mistreated or harmed because they are not what people expected for them to be.

If we want equal rights, we have to fight for what’s right.”

“Teaching people not to rape instead of being told to stick your keys between your fingers when walking alone.”

“Destroying the mold that society puts women in.”

“Hillary Clinton.”

SPORTS

THE COMMODORE CRUISER

10

Basics of Baseball by: Audrey Tapp

Using rules of ‘Rounders,’ and previously compared to stoolball and cricket, baseball has evolved in numerous areas, including the size and type of a baseball and bat. Many people date baseball back to the book written by Alexander Cartwright including the on set rules of baseball for the Knickerbocker Club of New York. The baseball rules written were widely accepted around the United States which lead to the first professional baseball team known as the Cincinnati Red Stockings. Three years later, they were soon

established by the National Association of Professional Baseball players as the first professional baseball league. Following the establishment, over three thousand supporters

tuned into the hometown Philadelphia Athletics loss to the Boston Red in the first National League game over played.

Baseball is the only sport where the defence has control over the ball resulting in the pitcher having an advantage over the batter. Beginning around 1912, major changes occurred proceeding in the batter having many advantages over the pitcher. These changes occurred because fan indulgence increased exceedingly and owner profit skyrocketed.

Although these new advantages for the batter were an improvement, there was not enough to balance the scale between

the pitcher and the batter.

Ever since the Knickerbocker Club started these baseball regulations, pitchers have always had advantages over the batter.

Even after the numerous amounts of changing, whether it’s rules like ‘Rounders’ or originated from stoolball and cricket, baseball has continued to make its rounds and changes throughout the years.

2016 Baseball Schedule Date

Mar. 29 Apr. 1 Apr. 2 Apr. 5 Apr. 8 Apr. 9 Apr. 12

Place Time

Opponent

Home New Albany Away New Albany Away Center Hill Home Senatobia Away Senatobia South Panola & Olive Branch Away Away Ripley Home Apr. 15 Ripley Home Apr. 16 South Panola

5&7 5&7 12 & 2 5&7 5&7 12 5&7 5&7 11 & 1

Assume the Position

by Destiny Mooneyham Yoga to be kidding!

According to Guinness World Records, the world’s oldest yoga teacher is Bette Calman, 85.

Although she has some competition from Gladys Morris, 90, who is petitioning to be recognized as the oldest yoga teacher.

Considering that yoga increases life span, expands the lungs, and benefits the heart may be why many participants of yoga have come to live so long.

Yoga was originated in India about 5000 or so years ago. Modern yoga is based on five basic principles. 1. Proper Relaxation 2. Proper Exercise 3. Proper Diet 4. Positive thinking 5. Meditation.

“Yoga is a multidimensional practice. It can can help strengthen weak muscles and help relax overly toned or tight muscles. Yoga can be used to prevent and heal injuries.”

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a yoga instructor, Betsy Banner, says. “The word ‘yoga’ means, ‘to yoke or create union’. Physically yoga helps the practitioner find balance and comfort in his/her body.”

Lafayette High School has it’s very own Yoga class, for students to participate in. Mrs. Jones instructs the yoga class, along with being a biology teacher. She teaches Yoga during fourth period. If you find yourself interested sign up for it next

year and find out how it goes. The students in the class enjoy the class a lot.

“Yoga does a lot for the body. It gives strength, flexibility, it releases tension, and calms anxiety.”

Jones says. Everything that yoga does for the body, is great for any ages.

If you work all the time and are stressed, yoga helps. If you’re a teenager who deals with stacks of homework and tests all year long, yoga helps.

Chris Long meditates in 4th period yoga.

SPORTS

THE COMMODORE CRUISER

11

Dribbling to Jackson by: Audrey Tapp

As many schools wrap up their basketball seasons, the LHS Lady Dores journey into North Half hoping for another win. Coach Shayne Linzy has proudly accompanied his girls as they earned their spot this 201516 basketball season.

Monday, February 22, 2016 the Lady Dores began playoffs starting with a defeat over the Shannon Lady Red Raiders. The

score was tight throughout the whole game and pressure was implemented greater in the second half but with the help of two rebounds and nine seconds left in the fourth quarter, Shelbi Buford made the break to a 4141 tie. Shelbi Buford led Lafayette with 16 overall points with Shaniyah Buford running in next with 14 total points.

Coach Linzy led his

girls through another W over the Leake Central Gators Friday, February 26, 2016. LHS made an exceptional win over the Gators and also a key to their season with a 68-30 win. Lafayette was fortunate with many advantages over Leake Central including Buford as guard, Shelbi Buford, Xhiir Burgess, Mariah Holland and Orianna Shaw. These girls combined had a to-

by: Mary Kate Newman

Milkshake Monday Two Scoop Tuesday Waffle Wednesday

mester where students interested are learning about the sport and different strokes to be a part of the team. Tryouts will be toward the end of the semester, and the season will be from the beginning of August to the end of October.

“I am very excited about the team. I have big plans and aspirations for the upcoming season.

We will probably be in a building stage for a couple of years, but I have several upcoming 7th graders

game but the Lady Dores fell two points which led to a loss against Florence and an end to their season.

Senior Sports Scholarships by: Javieus Lions

Just Keep Swimming Back at it again with a swim team. After seven years of no swim team there is finally one again. Ms. Nicole Robinson, intro to biology teacher at Lafayette High School, will be coaching the team this year.

Robinson knew that when she graduated in education that she wanted to be at a school that either had a swim team or was interesting in starting a swim team.

There happens to be a semester class this se-

tal of 26 rebounds and Buford scored 26 points to finalized their spot in the MHSAA Class 4A state tournament.

The Lady Dores made an unfortunate end to their season Thursday, March 3. Even through the edge-of-your-seat overtime the girls experienced a tuff 65-63 loss to Florences’ Lady Eagles.The score was tight throughout the whole

that are on the club team that are going to be very good for our program.

While I was a student at Oxford, I earned three state championship team titles, multiple individual and relay medals, and one relay that broke a state record. I feel that Lafayette would have a team with the same acclamations as we grow stronger throughout the year.” Ms. Nicole Robinson feels very confident about the upcoming year for the returning swim team.

Topping Thursday Float Friday

Come check out Saturday our daily specials! Sundae

Sports are tough and take time and dedication. Recently, some Lafayette seniors have chosen to continue their high school athletic careers into college.

Baseball did not have anybody signing at this time.

Football Tyrell Price and Quin Jones: East Mississippi Community College (Scooba, Miss.)

Eli Johnson: Ole Miss (Oxford, Miss.)

Jordan Jamison: University of Alabama Birmingham (Birmingham, Ala.) Zeke Liggins and Rashun Rockette: Northeast Community College (Booneville) Juan Kinds and Keontre Toles: Coahoma Community College (Clarksdale, Miss.)

Vincent Lewis: Pearl River Community College (Mississippi)

Girls Soccer Alley Houghton: Ole Miss (Oxford, Miss.)

Ana Branch: ICC (Fulton, Miss.)

Nikki Kesler: ICC (Itawamba Community College) (Oxford, Miss.)

Softball Hope Patton: ICC (Oxford, Miss.)

Emily Robinson: Jones Junior College (Ellisville, Miss.)

Boys Soccer Brian Leyva and Jason Reeveles: La Universidad de Pachuca (Mexico)

MARCH 2016

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

THE COMMODORE CRUISER

12

Double Decker by: Barrett Childress

In Oxford, Mississippi, when one hears the word “Double Decker,� people automatically think of the crowded red bus that carries people around the Square.

The Double Decker Arts Festival takes place in Oxford on April 23rd and 24th. There will be many different events that go on during Double Decker. Different restaurants and

vendors set up along the streets of the Square to sell their prod-

ucts. With all of the many shops

and vendors open, means a lot of people in Oxford. With such a big event going on, more than 60,000 people come to take place in the two day festival.

Throughout the two days, eleven bands will play in behind the road of the courthouse.

This celebration also includes many

different arts presented by local artists and stores. There will be over one hundred art booths for everyone to see.

The festival centers around the Double Decker bus that came from England in 1994.

During the first Double Decker, many things have changed.

The first stage was in the back of a pickup truck and there were only a few vendors and places to eat. Now, the stage is huge and takes up the whole street. Since then, the Double Decker Arts Festival has been a very big event for everyone around Oxford, Mississippi.

This two-day celebration is a very fun event for the people

that live in and around Oxford.

The people that love art also are able to see the different artists and the artists are able to exhibit their art to the 60,000 people that show up.

Spring Break by: Hailey Edwards

Spring Break is one of the most well-known holidays, though only a week or two long in some states and countries.

Spring Break is a traditional vacation that is most often celebrated in the United States and some western countries.

Spring Break is usually a one week vacation in the early spring at schools and universities. In other countries, it is known as many different names depending on regional areas.

In the United States, it can be held during the March or April months. Most are one week long, but depending on the institutions, they schedule a two week break. Lafayette began its Spring Break March 7 and the holiday vacations continued through March 11.

Most people think that the reason they have Spring Break

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because it was spring arrival and that they can celebrate not having to suffer through the cold winter weather. As far back as history goes, the Romans and Greeks have celebrated the arrival of spring, but that is not what truly started this phenomenal vacation.

A swimming coach at Colgate University, Sam Ingram, brought his team to Fort Lauderdale in 1936 to the first Olympic size pool in Florida named the Casino Pool.The tradition of college swimmers traveled to Florida and this continued through the 60s.

MISCELLANOUS

THE COMMODORE CRUISER

Continuation of Heartbreak by: Javieus Lyons

Continued from previous issue....

As Amber enters the girls bathroom a creepy chill rolls up her back and she says, “Hey is there anyone in here?”

No one responds but Amber could still hear the sound of someone crying, so she says, “Well I’m just gonna go and get the counselor.”

“No,” Sabrina yells and runs out the stall she was in, grabbing Amber’s hand and stopping her from leaving. Her eyes were bloodshot red like she had been crying for hours.

“Sabrina why are you crying, did Andrew do something.”

“No, I’m just not feeling well.”

“Okay, well I’ll just leave you what you were doing then.”

“Wait promise me that you won’t say anything to Andrew.”

“What? Why would I say anything?

“Because, you’re always worried about other people especially your friends.”

“Fine I will not say anything.”

“Promise.”

“Nope, I’m not promising anything but, I will say I will not openly ask him what he has done to make you sad because boys are so dense most of the time, I will just hint to it.” Amber says handing Sabrina a paper towel to wipe off the tears.

“Alright, we better get to fifth period.”

“I have first lunch so I guess to

I’ll be seeing you around.” Amber walks towards the lunch room with only one thing on her mind making Andrew Howie spill his guts.

She walks into the cafeteria her anger is coming off her in waves as she approaches Andrew the whole cafeteria goes silent and give their full attention to the two even no one knew about their previous relationship you knew that something big was going down.

Amber slams her hand down on the lunch table to gain Andrews attention and says, “What the heck did you do to Sabrina?”

“I didn’t do anything and if I did, it would be any of your business.”

“Sabrina is my friend, so I’m making it my business,” giving him a scorching glare that could slay anyone with ease.

“Yeah, well since you’re such good friends, why don’t you ask her what’s wrong.”

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13

“I did but unfortunately she tell me what’s wrong.”

“Well then perhaps you should mind your own business!”

Amber filled with rage picks up a glop of lunchrooms special mash potatoes and flings it into his face.

Andrew swiftly picks up his milk and throws it on her, Ambers anger flares and as she get ready to fling another helping she is interrupted, “Mrs.Valentine and Mr.Cruz report to my office now!”

Principal King’s face is red with fury as sits across from the two miscreants. won’t

To be continued....

MISCELLANEOUS

THE COMMODORE CRUISER

14

Does Your Vote Really Matter?

by Mary Kate Newman

Picture it. You are finally eighteen and elections for president are coming up. Everyone is saying, “Register to vote!

Your vote counts!” Does your vote really count; is this a true statement?

When voting for president, people think very carefully about who they are planning vote for. This is a tremendous decision.If you’re a republican then you will be looking at Donald Trump and seeing what his plans are for America, but if you are looking towards democratic then you are stuck between Hillary Clinton and Bernie Sanders.

Yes, your vote is taken into account for but “elector votes” are actually counted.

Electors are required to vote whatever the majority is in their state. The number of electors in each state is equal to the number of members of Congress to which the state is entitled. The process for selecting electors varies throughout the United States.

Generally, the political parties nominate electors at their State party conventions or by a vote of the party’s central committee in each State.

Electors are responsible for the voting of the president and the vice president.

Twenty-nine states have laws against electors to where they must vote the majority rule. The other twenty-one states do not have laws against their electors so they may vote whoever they want no matter what the majority voted. Mississippi has laws binding electors to cast their ballots for the candidate that the elector vowed, when nominated, to represent.

So does your vote really count?

Hollywood finds itself clashing with conservatives about a bill in Georgia.

The bill, which Georgia’s general assembly has already voted in favor of, will make it legal for faith-based organizations to deny employment or fire anyone who violates their religious beliefs. Georgia Governor Nathan Deal has until May 3 to make a decision on whether to sign the legislation into law.

Many film giants, such as Disney, 21st Century Fox, Li-

onsgate and Netflix, have spoken out against the bill and have threatened to stop all produnction in Georgia if the bill becomes legal.

On March 28, 2016 the bill was quickly vetoed by Governor Deal.

Are bills like this in the future of Mississippi as well?

Conflict In Georgia MARCH 2016

ADVICE COLUMN Dear Felicia, I feel stuck. No matter what I do it seems I’m in the wrong despite the fact I was arguably more hurt in the dispute. I want to leave an argument behind, something I thought would be over in a few days but has dragged on weeks. Every time I think it’s over, the other half does something else to throw tinder into the fire. If I say anything, I am wrong. If they do something, it is justified and I am not aloud to retaliate.

I’m frustrated. I’m tired. I just want it to be over. She says she wants to stop the all out war we’ve been having but then she turns around and

THE COMMODORE CRUISER

talks about me to her friends, or provokes me during class, because she knows I won’t start anything in front of a group. I can’t even stand to talk to her anymore because anytime I think we might go back to being friends she has to say something or gives me the cold shoulder for no reason. Then if I do the same she gets mad! I can’t fix the beyond broken friendship, and I can’t be mad at her without getting the bad end of the stick. I don’t know what to do.

Sincerely, I have the appeal of a frozen waffle

Dear Frozen Waffle, Honey, you aren’t stuck -you’re trapped in a situation that you can easily get out of, but it doesn’t seem like you want to. I understand that you used to be friends with this girl, but that is not the case anymore. She is using you for entertainment, and not the good kind. The fact that you have tried so many times to fix the situation says good things about your character. I commend you for that, but you’re wasting time on this girl. She’s not going to change and isn’t worth your precious time and energy anymore. She needs to go. That means that you have

to do whatever it takes to not make contact with her. Ever again. That means blocking her on all your social media, not talking to her, and not talking about her.

I see that you have tried to “retaliate.” Don’t do that.

Don’t stoop to her level.

You’re above that. I understand that you have a class with her and you used to be friends, but those days are done. Talk to your teacher and try to get a new seat.

Cutting off your “friends” is going to be a difficult task, but it sounds like you’re better off alone. I know I don’t have time for hypocritical pettiness, and neither should you.

The Beacon 662-234-5041

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If these girls try to start anything, hit Felicia up in the DM and I’ll take care of it.

Bye! ~Felicia

1200 North Lamar Blvd.

Oxford Ms. 38655

THE ANCHOR

THE COMMODORE CRUISER

The Anchor

Teacher

Mr.Williams

What’s your favorite type of flower?

Tulips

What is your Favorite part of Spring?

Warmer temperature

Freshman

Sophomore

Junior

16

Senior

Hayden Hopper

Yawa Dor

Audrey Rhodes

Davis Harmon

What’s your favorite type of flower?

What’s your favorite type of flower?

What’s your favorite type of flower?

What’s your favorite type of flower?

Rose

What is your Favorite part of Spring?

Pink roses

What is your What is your Favorite part of Favorite part of Spring?

Spring?

Flowers

What is your Favorite part of Spring?

Swimming

Turkey Hunting

Can you dab?

Can you dab?

Can you dab?

Can you dab?

Yea

Of course

Yes *dabs*

Possibly but no one Not since the acwill ever know cident

Why do you think you were chosen to be interveiw?

Why do you think you were chosen to be interveiw?

Why do you think you were chosen to be interveiw?

Why do you think you were chosen to be interveiw?

I asked to be interviewed

It gets warmer

Roses

You couldn’t find anyone else

I’m cool I guess

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Because I’m shy and social awkward

Spring break

Can you dab?

Why do you think you were chosen to be interveiw?

My superior intelligence