April 2014Murmur, Waterford Kettering High School Student by Waterford Drift

MURMUR p. 16-21

STUDENTS BRING TO LIGHT WHAT HAS BEEN LOCKED BEHIND CLOSED DOORS FOR SO LONG...

rape

culture

Contents

MURMUR Editors-in-Chief Jake Alessi, Chris Habba, & Alexea Hankin Drift Editor Lucas Hendricks Assistant Editor-in-Chief Kristin Warholak Managing Editor Catherine Habba Copy Editor Sarah Murphy Sports Editor Lucas Hendricks Business Manager Jordan Fujarski Photographers Tiffany Mountain, Bridget Ekis & Veronica Latimer

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•8•

•10•

•23•

•26•

Staff Writers Alexis Brady, Sarah Ciminillo, Julie Dennis, Charles Hendricks, Gabrielle Hilliard, Stephanie Knapp, Joshua Marko, Janelle Santacruz, Quinten Winowiecki, Rachel Woody

•5• Only In Our Dreams Lame excuses are made each and everyday. Here’s some motivation to get you back on track.

•8• Skating On Thin Ice Sophomore Nevada Posigian glides over thin ice in hopes of accomplishing a dream.

Waterford Kettering High School 2800 Kettering Dr, Waterford, MI 48329 (248) 673-1261

•10• Helping Beyond The Border Sophomore Rileigh Milner spent her spring break on a mission to help others in need.

•23• Meet The Players Both baseball and softball players share thier story on how they aquired the love for America’s pasttime.

•26• “Clipp” The Racism A second look at recent comments made by a NBA owner and the after effects.

Sponsors Allan Asp, Debbie Campbell, Patty Cascioli, Cindy Dennis, Jullie Dennis, Hilary Ludecke, David Latimer, Yvette Latimer, Mike Malley, Margaret Grossnickle, Buddy Marlin, Carol Weiland, Custard Corner, Marissa Lyles, Mervin Nichols, Plante Moran, Anne’s Canvas, Jennifer Kwilos, Colleen Smith

The Murmur is printed monthly, and completely put together by the students in the journalism class at Waterford Kettering High School. The Murmur serves as an open forum for student expression, and opinions printed are not those of the administration. Letters to the editor Letters from readers are encouraged. Letters may be delivered to room 501 or can be sent to the newspaper’s e-mail address, ketteringmurmur@gmail.com. All letters are subject to editing of grammatical or punctuation errors. Letters must be submitted with a signature. Letters with libel or slander towards another person will

MURMUR NEWS 27 May 2014

not be considered for publication. Letters must be limited to 250 words. Advertising Advertisements do not reflect the views of the staff. Potential advertisers can contact the staff at the number to the left. The Murmur editorial board has the right to refuse any inappropriate advertising. Columns Columns or editorials represent the opinion of the writer. Thoughts or views which are expressed are not those of the entire staff or administration. Staff Editorials Staff editorials are written by the staff and include the combined opinion of the full staff.

Letters to the editor Dear Murmur Staff, I thought the recent issue of the Murmur was amazing. It had articles that went deeper than the surface, which I think is very important. Everyone in this school has something going on in our lives; we’re all fighting our own everyday battles. We can all relate to each others struggles in some way. Seeing certain “deep” articles can make us feel like we aren’t alone, and allows us to be their for our classmates. In my opinion, it was the best issue of the Murmur that I’ve ever read. Lauren Brill, 11 Dear Kettering, You should probably think about opening another entrance to the school. It takes me less than five minutes to get to Kettering from my house. I leave at 6:50 a.m in the morning and don’t get into the parking lot until 7:10. Which leaves me ten minutes to get my stuff out of my car, walk inside, go to my locker, and get to class on time. So many people are trying to get into the school through one entrance and it’s obviously a problem. There’s no reason I should have to leave earlier than 6:50 and I won’t... Angela Mastick, 12

Dear Waterford Drift, The only thing about the WKHS-TV would be the sound. There seems to be many sound problems. And the only thing I would change about The Murmur would be that we need an annonomously question section. And I really dislike getting pulled out of AC to do ACT work. I would rather have them come to our pod because what if I have a lot of homework, I can’t spend my time doing it because I have to go to the LGI to read a packet of notes. When honeslty the day the ACT comes we are going to forget half of it simply because we’re going to be nervous and panic. Keiron Payne Jr, 11 Dear Murmur, Last week a question popped into my head. Why doesn’t our school have an ACT prep class? The ACT is probably the biggest test for a student and I feel like the school should have a class for it. It would make life easier and less stressful for students in and out of school. Austin Wood, 11

Have something you want to say? Write THE MURMUR a letter Turn yours into room 501 or Email us: Ketteringmurmur@gmail.com w

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Letters

Dear readers, We’re sad to say that the year has almost come to an end. Though on the other hand we’re also happy to say that the year has almost come to an end. With that aside we’re glad to have served Kettering and the Waterford community with our very own publication “The Murmur”. It’s often hard to realize how much people truly matter. When we say ‘people’ we mean you. Many times us high schoolers underestimate ourselves for what we’re really worth. We may assume just because we aren’t popular or because we’ve never played sports that we aren’t worth anything. But that’s so far from the truth. Everybody’s worth something special, everybody has a story. And that’s why the Murmur’s here, to share your story. No matter what that story may be, it’s you, and no one else can ever have the same one. So embrace yourself for what you’re worth and know that we here at Kettering are a family, who all have our own unique page in the newspaper of life. Thank you so much for your appreciation and encouragement throughout the year. Sincerely, your editor-in-chiefs Jacob Alessi & Christopher Habba

A note on: “Rape Culture” We the staff of the murmur recognize that the stories on rape culture in this month’s issue may strike a nerve. We know that the topics discussed are controversial. We recognize that these are uncomfortable issues to talk about, though after lengthy staff discussions we also recognize that that’s part of the problem to begin with. If you have any feedback please feel free to write us.

Dear Murmur, I read The Murmur everytime it comes out. I love reading all the stories about things going on in Kettering, and about the people in Kettering. I really like the stories about what goes on in people’s lives, things that no one really knows about. I think tthey should put more stories like that in The Murmur. People everyday walk around school with a smile on their face, but inside they just want to break down and cry. I know I’m like that a lot at school, and nobody knows why, but maybe they should. All your guy’s stories are amazing, and I can’t wait to read the next one. Samantha Gdula, 10

03 April 2013

  Parent plotT WIS T Opinion

The scary thought that your parents can be your friends and your life won’t be over

BY BRIDGET EKIS bridgetekis@waterforddrift.com

t’s coming again, that flip flop feeling My best friends are my parents. And I’m ally help you with school). in the pit of my stomach. I shouldn’t okay with that. Go ahead, say what you This research really speaks to me. I agree be here. I don’t feel safe. Even though want to about it. But at least hear me out, 110 percent that if you don’t have a strong I’m perfectly fine. I need to go home right stick around for a bit longer, because I’m relationship with your parents, then you now. not as weird as you may think. really are missing out. But don’t worry, beIt’s 3 a.m., and I’m at my friends house There’s no secret formula to being best cause it is OK to be close with the people spending the night. I was homesick, which friends with my parents. They’re one of that brought you into this world. Trust me, was not a new feeling to me. Her house the few people who are always there for they don’t bite. was fine, and her parents were extreme- me, and to me that qualifies as best friend One main advantage of being close with ly welcoming, just something about her material. Whenever I’m crisis mode, or your parents is that you can talk drama house gave me the heebie jeebies. whenever I just need to scream (literally), with them, and get this, no one will find Back in the old days, when k i d s they’re right there to listen and cradle me out! Your parents aren’t going to swoop didn’t walk around with cell to my needs. down to a teenage level and talk trash I don’t hate my dad it’s phones glued to their hips, I’d say my mom about people with you. in order to make a call and I are famous for Gaining trust with your parents is somejust that sometimes you had to use the home our talks. She knows thing that can really help you out in the he can be a jerk, but phone. I was young at the the right words to long run. Constantly lying to them and time, and didn’t want to bother I have for sure learned say at the right time, lashing out at them is arguably one of the anyone, but I just couldn’t take some stuff I don’t want and actually listens worst ways to signal that you need help, this feeling in my stomach anyto me. Something or crave that attention you’ve been lacking more. It was eating me alive and to pass onto my kids that happens with from them. causing my heart to race as if I from him.’ my peers quite a lot Ease off of the late night screaming fests, was an Olympian about to com- Sophomore Josh Andrews is that they don’t al- or the name calling. A better way to go, pete in an event. ways listen. I’m not which is also a more sophisticated apBuilding up the courage, I saying I don’t think proach, would be to sit down with your gently woke up my friend and explained to my friends don’t care about me, but when parents and tell them how you feel. Go her how I felt. To my surprise she was very you talk something out with one of your back to second grade and use an “I Mesunderstanding and led me to her house parents, you feel a different way inside sage” because they actually do work. phone to call my parents. I remember it when it’s all over. It’s this fuzzy warm feelWhatever you do don’t let this chat esbeing a Friday night, which was a night my ing, that’s almost irreplaceable. calade into an argument.That never ends parents were usually partying with their I’ve always idolized my dad. I’ve been up well. I think the biggest thing teenagfriends. Throughout the phone call I had clung to him (literally) since day one. ers do while conducting this chat is blame mixed emotions, first fear, which then led When I was younger, his strong big arms their parents, and don’t always take into to stress, but somehow ended up with re- would always scoop me up and carry me consideration what it’s like to be a parent. lief. When I put the phone down I knew I wherever we were off to that day. My I can understand why teens would do this. had done the right thing. dad and I It’s always hard to understand how Once I was home I was flooded with are one someone else feels when all you want My parents, my mom plenty of love and affection. All of my par- in the to tell them is how you feel and that inperticular lets me ents friends greeted me like I was part of s a m e , what they’re doing is wrong because open up and talk with it is making you feel so crappy. the party, and that they were glad to see we look me. I was repeatedly told by my parents alike, act alike her, which shows she Also, another scenario that I see “You did the right thing by calling,” or, and even think happen a lot is that the parents acsupports me well’ “Don’t be ashamed, you didn’t ruin our alike too. Havtually do try to have that close relanight, we’re just glad you’re okay.” And ing such a Freshman Reina Carreno tionship with their kids, but the kids lastly the, “We’ll always be here for you strong bond just shove them away. This happens and you can always call us when you’re in with both of because the kid really doesn’t know need. We love you very much and we’re my parents is something I cherish most in what they’re missing out on. always a phone call away.” my life. A basic human need is to feel loved and That night I realized that my parents The National Scientific Council on the cared about and sometimes I think teenwere people who did more for me than Developing Child states having a strong agers feel like this empty hole in their heart just give me a Barbie bandaid when I got a relationship with your parents can lead needs to be filled by a boyfriend or girl“boo boo” or remind me to brush my teeth to stronger cognitive skills; meaning en- friend. Even though they have parents who every night before bed time. Little did I hanced social skills, memory skills, and are perfectly capable of providing that for know at that age that my parents would logic skills.This research also states that them, parents that are just waiting for them have such a positive influ- your parents can help you later on in your to scream out go “MOM I NEED YOU.” ence on my life. school life (shocker you parents can actu-

MURMUR NEWS 27 May 2014

Only in our dreams Opinion

Why can’t we do everything we always dreamed of?

BY RACHEL WOODY rachelwoody@waterforddrift.com

riter and politician Johann Wolfgang von Goethe once said “What is not started today is never finished tomorrow.” This quote speaks volumes to all generations, especially the current one. It seems like more and more citizens are falling out of line and becoming nothing more than an eyesore to society. According to popular political online magazine politic365.com, 46 percent of those who enter a U.S. college fail to graduate within six years. Somewhere between the tests, 7 hour days and long lectures we lose our motivation to do, well, anything. This creates a carelessness, that ultimately results in us losing what we once thought was our future: following our dreams. What is the underlying reason why we do not fulfill our dreams? Maybe it’s because we lack the motivation and desire within ourselves, or we tend to blame other people for our failures, or perhaps we are lacking the resources that we desperately need. Sometimes it may be because others discourage us. I believe most high schoolers feel stuck, and lost in their search. When we were young it was easy to say we wanted to be an astronaut or a scientist. But once we learned how much work we had to put in to achieve those things, did we just give up? Are we unsure where to begin or do we even have enough confidence

within ourselves to fulfill what we desire to be? Senior and varsity hockey team member Andrew Lindsey aspired to be a professional hockey player from the time he could walk. “The players along with their lifestyle really inspired me and it just looked like a really fun job.” Throughout his high school career Lindsey played on the varsity hockey team. However, he believes he is unable to fulfill his dream because he failed to prepare himself in advance for that career. “I didn’t focus on it enough,” Lindsey said. Others, such as senior and aspiring professional swimmer Katherine Kuhn are unable to fufill their dreams due to unchangable factors. “I was top in the state and going to meets with the fastest kids in five different states,” Kuhn said. “Four years ago I found out I had scoliosis and my back was also hyper mobile, meaning my muslces arent connected to my spine,” Kuhn said. Unfortunately Kuhn has no choice but to relax and focus on her recovery. Although her focus is set on her dream, her body just isnt going to allow it. On the other hand, Junior Madison Wright has been pursuing her passion of swimming since the age of eight. “I’ve made a lot of sacrifices, and so has my family,” Wright said.

“Its all worth it and I’m happy I stuck with my dream.” Wright is currently a member of the United States National Youth team, and has been for the past three years. She placed 24 out of 800 people in the Olympic trials. “It may be hard in the moment but it will all pay off in the long run,” Wright said. So how is your vision? I don’t mean the condition of your eyes, but the clarity of your focus. I’m asking whether your mind’s eye, your imagination, is truly and clearly focused on a dream. Our vision is like a map that shows our destination. After we know which way we want to go, things start to happen. We can see into the future because we knowingly create it. If an inspiring vision ever flashed into your mind, it is only because it is in you striving to get out. Don’t kill the dream; kill the selfdoubt. The weapon of choice is action. If you keep moving forward, no matter how small the steps, you will reach your destination.

Don’t allow the goal to just fade away. Figure out what you need to do to accomplish your goal, and DO IT!

A road map According to Human Resources expert Susan Heathfield

to your dreams

FINISH

Understand that you’ve got to really, really want to achieve the goal. Create action steps to follow. Identify a critical path. Write down the plan, the action steps, and the critical path.

START

Establish ways to check your progress. Whatever it is: a day planner, on your phone, or a handwritten list.

WaterfordDrift.com

27 May 2014

The

Opinion

( )

BY CHARLIE HENDRICKS charliehendricks@waterforddrift.com

itting in algebra class paying attention to the lecture is now a thing of the past. I use to have to wait all day to go home to message my friends on Twitter and play my favorite video games. I’m finding myself listening to more music and reading interesting articles on my down time. Ever since I purchased my new Google Google Nexus 5 smartphone, I have been able to do so much more in a single day than ever before. My Smartphone has made a noticeable difference in my life. I have been taking advantage of the Google Play Store and downloading many apps that have helped me out.

Pros

Google Drive accounts and email can be accessed with ease.

A Smartphone provides access to translation apps, which help for foreign languages.

life

How having a smart phone can change your life

During the school day I have been able to talk to my friends and on my lunch period. Playing games in school has helped me out because now I don’t feel as tempted to play those games or talk to my friends at home leaving me more time to study at home. When I go home I have made time to do my homework and study rather than getting my entertainment for the day on my computer. My Daily routine around the house is also helped by my phone like using an alarm when I wake up or voice command whenever I was bored. The Google Nexus 5 affected my life a lot, I’m thankful to be addicted to it.

Cons

Music that’s available right in Games on new Smartphones your pocket can cause more can cause you to stare at a listening to ear buds and less phone screen rather than a listening to your teachers. teacher’s lesson.

Grammar and spelling aren’t as important as the message being conveyed in the digital age BY QUINTEN WINOWIECKI quintenwinowiecki@waterforddrift.com

e sign into the soul consuming vehicle for indirect communication, checking in on our friends we haven’t seen in a while, and find their status updates are riddled with grammatical errors and sprinkled with spelling mishaps. This doesn’t necessarily mean that their sudden spillage of thought onto the world wide web is less important than if they had taken the time to revise and edit a quick post on Facebook. There are so many times you see people tweeting and their tweets using absolutely no proper grammar. This doesn’t make them any less intelligent by default. It seems that the age of technology is turning on its prime generation, leaving us to be poorly judged and thought of as ignorant or uneducated. It’s not how they spell or use punctuation, rather what they’re trying to say. I may be in the minority, trying to use grammar and proper spelling correctly on social networks, but it seems that at least for spelling, people aren’t exactly take the time to to edit their Facebook posts to be flawless. Part of this is with the help of social media limiting the amount of

characters available to its users. Twitter is one of the best examples of putting a cap on the characters people are able to use, only giving its users 140 characters. The people that criticize users of Twitter and Facebook users for using grammar loosely and roughing the edges of correct spelling are over-aggressive about the fact. I don’t recall the creators and moderators of the sites forcing its users to be perfect in every way, shape, or form just for the sake of other people’s satisfaction. People don’t always post or say things on the internet to get acceptance or grammar advice, but mostly to get their thoughts out into the world. If their thoughts are meaningful it shouldn’t matter how well they can spell, but what they are actually saying. Now these popularly called “Grammar Nazis” aren’t always wrong, but that doesn’t justify their random acts of meanness against people that aren’t as bothered by “misuse” of the English language. It also doesn’t help when the people correcting the original user consistently spell more words wrong than those they are confronting about poor grammar.

MURMUR NEWS 27 May 2014

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Skating on thin ice A Profile

BY VERONICA LATIMER veronicalatimer@waterforddrift.com

cold sensation tingles through Nevada’s hands and down her arms. She opens her eyes and is unaware of what just happened. Her ears ring as she tries to gain enough courage to stand back up again. Everything is moving in slow motion and the faint images in front of her are blurred. Her head is throbbing in synchronization with her heartbeat, and her breathing is heavy. Sharp pain strikes a nerve in her lower back as she tries to pick herself up off the ice. A woman runs to her side. “My mom ran over to me and immediately started asking if I was ok,” Nevada said. “I could see in her face that she was worried, and that’s when I started skating again as if I never even fell down.” When Nevada Posigian skates, falling down and getting a bruise on her butt is the last thing she is worried about. Figure skating is one of the most demanding sports, physically and mentally, but that’s one of the reasons why she loves it so much. Nevada is a competitive figure skater for the Lakeland Figure Skating Club and is also on the Waterford Kettering Varsity Figure Skating team. She laces up her skates four days a week for up to two hours a day. “Ever since I was 10, skating out on that ice became my passion and I realized that I wanted to make it my life.” Nevada said. “I remember I used to go see all the Disney On Ice shows with my grandma when I was a kid, and she could tell that I was really into watching them skate, so she decided to ask me one time if I wanted to try figure skating, and of course, I said yes.” On Christmas of 2009, she ran down the stairs and opened all her presents, until she opened the last one and saw that her grandma bought a figure skating lesson for her. In the middle of my first lesson, there was just something in my heart that clicked when I stepped on the ice, and I’ve been skating ever since,” Nevada said. During her freshman year of high school, Nevada made the varsity skating team, and remains the only girl from Kettering on the combined team made up of Clarkston, Walled Lake, and Huron Valley schools. “The first time skating on varsity, there was a meeting, and I remember I just

sat there and cried the whole time,” Nevada said. “I didn’t think I was good enough yet, and even though nobody really knew me, everyone said they would help me out because when someone on this team takes a step forward we all take a step forward together.” That was the moment she realized these girls were her family, and together, they traveled to competitions in and outside Michigan. Over the past two years, she has won two gold medals, three bronze medals, a bunch of team awards, and overall team first, second, and fourth place awards. “Even though it makes you feel really good every time you win, medals don’t matter to me. Knowing that I went out there and gave it my all is what really makes me feel accomplished.” Whenever Nevada wins she knows it is impeccable to keep working hard and to not let things get to her head. “Everytime I win, I know I’ve worked hard towards my goal and it takes me a step forward to continuing my dreams.” Now she doesn’t always win, but that isn’t a bad thing in her mind and she never lets it get to her. “If I lose, I just know that I have to work ten times harder to fix all my errors in order to be the best that I can be, and this keeps me progressing toward my dreams instead of regressing,” Nevada said. This year of figure skating has been even more successful than the last. She’s won more team and individual awards due to hardwork and dedication. One of her most prestigious awards this year was receiving a varsity letter for two consecutive years of figure skating. “Getting my varsity letter this year was one of the happiest memories I’ve had in high school because that was my ultimate goal, to get my varsity letter in skating, and I successfully achieved that goal,” Nevada said. “It was a huge moment for me to actually be able to hold that letter and say ‘I did it, I made this happen.” Getting her varsity letter made her realize how good she really is, giving her more self-confidence in what she does. Not all of her memories of skating have been positive, and sometimes bad events can affect how well you skate. Being involved with a team means that there is always the chance for physical and verbal competition, and Nevada has noticed that people are afraid to say things face-to-face now, so they look toward social media websites, such as Twitter, to talk bad about Ne-

w MURMUR NEWS 27 May 2014

The Dreams of becoming a professional figure skater are turning into a Reality

vada’s team, knowing there’s no risk of physical involvement. “I know it’s a shocker but there is a lot of drama on social media, and mostly girls will post and talk crap about us online when we didn’t do anything to them in the first place” Nevada confessed. “The reason why we think it’s so annoying and disappointing is because some of those girls were on our team before, and now they are on different teams talking about us like we are invisible.” One may not take “Twitter-threats” so seriously, but for Nevada, these types of things will affect how she skates at an upcoming competition, even though she tries to not let them get to her. Whenever her team arrives at a competition, they are all greeted at the door by rude remarks and nasty looks from rival teams who want to psych them out. “I’ve gotten kind of used to all the name calling and teasing because now, I just sort-of expect it to happen, and those things actually make me skate harder,” Nevada said. The bond between the Combined Varsity Figure Skating team has grown to great heights, so everyone gets over obstacles together. One of those obstacles is an injury. As with any sport, injuries affect both the individual skater and the team as a whole. “Whenever someone gets an injury, it’s really hard for the rest of the team to cope with too, because it’s a different atmosphere when one of your best friends isn’t skating right there next to you,” Nevada said. “As a team, we see that person want to just go out and skate with us again but they physically cannot. Nevada knows first-hand how hard it is to watch other people do the sport you love, while sitting out because of an injury. She was practicing at the rink a while ago, and was working on a jump. Upon her landing, she fell flat on the ice, and her entire body was in pain. “It felt like I had been hit with a semi truck in the back a couple of times; the pain was so bad I didn’t feel anything else in my body,” Nevada said. On good judgement, she was taken to see a doctor to investigate what happened to her back. Many X-rays and MRIs were taken to determine the final diagnosis. “I remember this day like it was yesterday, sitting in that dull, brown painted emergency room, number six. The doctor came in with a handful of papers, almost looking like he just walked out of a business meeting. He told me that I had a severe case of scoliosis(a lateral curvature of the spine) and kyphosis (exagger-

Profile

ated outward curvature of the spine) and they had been developing over time, but when I fell I increased the degree of severity.” Nevada has been out of the rink for a little more than three months now, and the road to recovery has been full of physical therapy and just taking everything day by day. She has slowly started to make her way back onto the ice since the beginning of May, and she is able to get through because of the constant support and encouragement of the team. While her skating career is far from over, being on the Kettering skating team had allowed Nevada to experience new things and to expand her horizon into the future. Many students were completely unaware that there is a team for skating at Kettering, but it doesn’t bother her because she just does what she loves. “If you were asked what it feels like to float on a cloud, the majority of people wouldn’t be able to answer, but I could. I get to experience that feeling everyday, and that’s the exact reason why I love skating so much, and it will never get old.”

Encouragement Nevada’s figure skating coach Karen talks about what she can do to work back into skating. Photo by Veronica Latimer

WaterfordDrift.com 27 May 2014

Feature

Beyond the Border Traveling isn’t always a vacation BY LEXI BRADY alexisbrady@waterforddrift.com

pring break is typically known for cutting loose and having fun. It’s that time of year where you’re getting a taste of the upcoming summer, and all students want to do is give their minds a

break. Spring Break provides the perfect opportunity. Junior Rileigh Milner decided to head in a different direction with her spring break. She got away from the stereotypical spring break and went to Mexicali, Mexico for a mission trip with her church. Instead of relaxing on the beach and soaking up the sun, Milner helped build rooms in a new church in Mexico and taught bible school for the little children that were apart of their Outreach Program. “We did some construction work where we built two rooms for the church site we spent a lot of our time,” Milner said. “Then everyday we would do vacation bible school for the kids in the neighborhood. This is where we would do a skit, and give them crafts to do based on a bible story.” Milner especially bonded with one little boy in particular. “On the last day of our trip, a little boy gave me a necklace,” Milner said. “When I told him it was his and he should keep it, he showed me that he was wearing one just like it and wanted me to keep the other one.” Even though working and playing with the kids was a lot of fun, and a lot of memories were made, it’s impossible to dismiss Mexicali’s 90100 degree temperatures that were accompanied by dry, dusty air, that made it hard to breath. Beads of sweat were dripping from foreheads, it was dangerously hot, but there was still work to be done. None of these conditions could stop Milner and her youth group from Our Shepherd Lutheran Church from getting the job completed. “The Outreach Program has a campsite that we all stay at,” Milner said. “We lived in tents for the week. There was also no running water or bathrooms available to us on camp. So we couldn’t take showers, and to brush our teeth we had to use our water bottles. It’s extremely dusty and hot there so most of us had to use wipes every day to clean off our bodies as well as we could.” These unique and difficult living conditions really helped Milner understand just how good people have it here in the States. “People talk about how awful the world is and what a horrible place it is, but not many people actually do something about it,” Milner said. “I wanted to be a part of making a difference.” Lifelong friendships and relationships were also developed and made during this short period of time.

Photos attained from Rileigh Milner “Everyone who was on the trip together bonded so much,” Milner said. “The pastor and his family that we worked with will forever hold a place in my heart. They’re some of the most generous and appreciative people I’ve ever met in my life. Same as the kids that were there. I’m going to miss them all so much. Spending time with the little children and helping out the community in Mexico was very inspiring and life-changing for Milner. “It’s really impossible to put into words,” Milner said. “It was one of the most amazing experiences I’ve ever had. I’m planning on going back next year as well, and I’m so excited to see what next year brings.”

“It’s really impossible to put into words,” Milner said. “It was one of the most amazing experiences I’ve ever had.” w

MURMUR NEWS 27 May 2014

Profile

Jolie’s passion for art carves her into the person she is today

BY CATHERINE HABBA catherinehabba@waterforddrift.com

s sophomore Jolie Wyse finds a seat in Academic Center, sitting in the middle row towards the back of the room, she slowly starts to zone out and enter her own world of art. Wyse finds herself picking up her pencil, pulling out her drawing pad and absent-mindedly, starts doodling a picture of a pelican. “I sometimes find myself drawing in class when I’m bored- I find it much more entertaining and interesting than the general information I’m taught in school.” Wyse said. When Wyse is stressed, she turns to art. “I draw or paint to take my mind off of things, it helps me relax and escape all they daily distractions I have in my life.” It is very easy for Wyse to find inspiration for her artwork everywhere she goes. “I’m inspired by so many things I see during the day,” Wyse said. ”Even things

on social media. I use all of that to make myself a better artist.” While Wyse has always been into art, she only recently got serious about it. “I realized I was an artist when I took Advanced Art in the 8th grade.” Wyse said. “My favorite quote is: ‘Art enables us to find ourselves and lose ourselves at the same time’ by Thomas Merton.” This explains exactly how Wyse feels about art and also lets her escape reality. Just like any true artist, Wyse has art pieces that she is very proud of. “I would love it if my future career somehow involved art and I think it will, even though I am not exactly sure of what I want to do in the future.”

How to draw a shark

Step #1: draw a basic outline of the shark.

Step #2: draw the simple details.

Step #3: shade in almost all of the shark to show depth.

WaterfordDrift.com 27 May 2014

Jolie’s self portait.

“Noah Happy is a friend of mine and he asked me to draw him once. I found this cool picture of him on Instagram and so I decided to draw it,” said Jolie Wyse.

These are some drawings that Jolie drew during her free time as a hobby.

Profile

Double

life

How twins Autumn & Arielle Mersino take school at Kettering and at home

BY JULIE DENNIS juliedennis@waterforddrift.com

rielle just finishes her last math problem. Autumn takes a sigh of relief as she finishes her history essay. Arielle looks at her watch, the time is 3:50. Arielle taps her sister as she gets up to lace up her shoes. They walk about a mile before they reach the corner of the street, their younger siblings’ bus stop. For the first few hours of the day, Autumn and Arielle Mersino are normal teenagers. They go to school, do their work, and talk to friends. But after third hour, they leave Kettering and go home to more home schooling classes and a family of nine. Up until fifth grade they were public schooled. Their parents decided to pull them out of public school and have them be home schooled from sixth to ninth grade. “Middle school years are tender years,” said their mother, Elizabeth Mersino. “We wanted them to learn about who they are and what they stand for without the influence and peer pressure of others.” This is the twins’ first year doing half public and half home schooling. “Our mother made a bold decision to put both me and my twin into public schooling for our 10th grade year,” said sophomore Autumn Mersino. Arielle and Autumn had gone three years without any major social contact. They were tired of sitting around the house all day everyday. The twins wanted to get out and interact with their peers. “We were lonely and socially awkward,” said Arielle. “Our mom and dad thought that we were both ready to handle a social situation, we had to get ready for the world by knowing how to interact with other people besides family.” Arielle and Autumn’s mother wanted to ease them into a public schooling environment, which is why the twins only go for three hours. Both twins feel that there are a variety of similarities and differences between public and home schooling. “When you’re home schooled, you don’t need to worry about getting dressed for school and you’re not required to get up at five in the morning,” Autumn said. “ There is no peer pressure. There’s no need to know a schedule as long as you do all your

classes.” Arielle agrees with Autumn on this. “In home schooling, you have the choice in how much school you want/need to do,” Arielle said. “The hours are different with starting and ending school, but both schoolings demand the same responsibilities.” Many people believe that home schooling is not superior over any other type of schooling. It’s not all positive, just like public schooling it has its benefits and its downfalls. “Home schooling is very similar to public schooling, in terms of how much is required of you,” said Autumn. “In other words, in home schooling you’re expected to be just as responsible for your work, and communication with your teachers as in public schooling.” Both Autumn and Arielle believe that home schooling is very similar to public schooling, in terms of work required. However, both the twins have different opinions on which type of schooling they prefer. “Both types of schooling have their ups and their downs, but I prefer public schooling over all,” Arielle said. “In public you have more time to be social and interact with others. It is also easier to get help from the teachers when I do not understand something.” On the other side Autumn prefers home schooling. “I prefer home schooling because the atmosphere can be calmer,” Autumn said. “Both schoolings have their negatives and their positives. In public schooling, there is a lot of bad language and bad influences.” Even though they have been busy, Autumn and Arielle still manage to maintain good grades at school and at home. “Most people would think that it would be relaxing for me and sister to go home after third hour,” said Arielle. “It is not at all relaxing. It is actually the opposite, at Kettering I feel like I have a chance to breath and enjoy everything. My sister and I do not come home to a nice, quiet house.” Autumn and Arielle live in a very special household. The United States census says 4-5 people is the average number of people in a household. In this case, Autumn and Arielle’s household size is almost double the aver-

MURMUR NEWS 27 May 2014

age, with an immediate family of nine people. With five younger siblings crawling around it’s hard for the Mersino twins to focus on the ‘home’ part of home school. “Having to take on a second mom role affects my home school schedule,” Arielle said. “My sister and I have to get all of our work done before 4 p.m., because that is when our younger siblings come home, we are limited to the time we have to work.” Even though Arielle and Autumn struggle with having a full household, they still love every second of it and would not change it for the world. “Things get chaotic around 4 p.m., it gets loud and it does get crazy, ” Autumn said. “But, our home is filled with love.” Arielle and Autumn always tend to look on the bright side of everything. Most teenagers would complain about having that busy of a house and having to take on a mother like role at such a young age, but the twins enjoy it and considered themselves to be blessed. “Our family has this teamwork spirit. Things can get noisy and a bit out of control with two teenagers, a seven year old, a five year old, a two year old and a three month old baby,” Arielle said. “As long as everyone works together, the house is a very loving and caring environment to be in.”

Twin talk

‘ ‘

It would be helpful for any sibling to have another sibling to help them. They can do their homework and solve problems together. Also they both ask the same questions at the same time during my lecture even though they are in different hours.’ SUSAN HARTLEY, TEACHER

Autumn and Arielle are always right by each others side, they never fight with each other. Unlike most siblings they mostly get along with each other. Autumn and Arielle are like the same person.’ JOE BATEMAN, 9

Profile

Testing

Guess: Red Real answer: Red

What’s Arielle’s favorite activity? Guess: Drawing Real answer: Drawing

twins

Both twins were asked “What’s Autumn’s favorite color?” questions Guess: Blue about each Real answer: Blue other to see how well they What’s Autumn’s favorite activity? really know Guess: Drawing one another Real answer: Drawing

What’s Arielle’s favorite season?

What’s Autumn’s favorite season?

Guess: Spring Real answer: Summer

Guess: Summer Real answer: Summer

utumn was born at 3:24 pm on March 4th. She is younger by four minutes. Autumn is very similar yet totally different to her twin Arielle. Autumn describes herself as the “computer geek” of the family. Autumn loves anything that has to deal with technology. She likes to spend her time editing photos and videos. Autumn likes to cosplay with her twin. To Autumn, cosplay isn’t just dressing up and acting, to her it’s bonding. “I know cosplay may sound weird to people, but cosplay to me is a way to make memories with my sister and to experience new video techniques,” said Autumn. She describes herself as being loving, helpful, goofy, stubborn, smart and spontaneous. There’s one special factor about Autumn that Arielle does not have. Autumn has asthma. This does not greatly affect her life style. Photos by Ashley Brown

Arielle

Autumn “What’s Arielle’s favorite color?”

the

WaterfordDrift.com 27 May 2014

rielle was born at 3:20 pm on March 4th. She is older by four minutes. Arielle is very similar yet totally different to her twin Autumn. Arielle describes herself as the “fashion” twin. She is an artsy person, and spends most of her free time drawing. Just like her twin Autumn, Arielle is very religious. “I am a Christan and I am very proud to call myself that,” said Arielle. “I love Jesus and I wouldn’t be where I am in life without him.” She also has some big plans for her future. When she gets older Arielle wants to be the first women in her church to become a fulltime pastor. Personality wise, Arielle and Autumn have their differences. Arielle may appear calm and collected, but when she gets comfy with someone she becomes loud and goofy.

Indepth

THEY SAID I WA

asking FOR IT PAGE DESIGNED BY CHRISTOPHER HABBA & JACOB ALESSI

MURMUR NEWS 27 May 2014

Indepth

FROM THE DEPT HS OF CYBERSPACE TO SCHOOL HALLWAYS WOR LDWIDE RAPE CULTURE STILL THRIVES

We stand up to be put down We live in a culture where we are shamed to stand up against everyday harrassment in our own school

BY RACHEL WOODY rachelwoody@waterforddrift.com

s I chose my classes for my senior year of high school I was determined to push myself and join advanced weight lifting, knowing there was a strong chance that I could be the only bit of estrogen in the room. Confidently, I took the chance. I let out a sigh of relief once I saw who was in the class. About a handful of guys who I felt I could be normal around- people I would consider my friends. However, I was still the only girl in the room. It was a typical day of lifting in the weight room, but I was a bit on edge, and honestly exhausted. I laid down on my back on a piece of equipment in the weight room. “Do you want me to just give it to you right now?” One boy said.

I let out a few choice words and told him to shut his mouth. But he wasn’t the only one talking now. A few boys proceeded with the taunting. “Close your legs.” “You’re just trying to see how many guys you can get with.” “Everybody knows that’s the only reason you’re in this class.” One boy spoke up, attempting to defend me. “Come on you guys, just stop.” *Story continued on next page

WaterfordDrift.com 27 May 2014

Indepth *Continued from page 17 I was appalled. My body began to fill with rage, from head to toe. I felt weak because, after the last comment left his tongue, I began to cry. I walked as fast as possible out of the room, trying to keep my composure. I turned the corner and ran into the girls locker room. I let out something of a scream. I was just in pain. Not physical pain, but pain in my heart and in my head. Did I allow this? Did I give off the vibe that it was okay to say these things because I was “one of the boys?” Did I sign up for this? I felt stupid, and violated. I didn’t know what to do. I called my mom as soon as I got into the locker room. I blubbered and was barely able to speak, but I told her what happened. She immediately told me that I had to go to the office, because it was sexual harassment. To be completely honest, I wasn’t even thinking about doing that in the beginning. Telling the school didn’t even cross my mind. However after hearing my mom’s anger and her stressing the fact that it was sexual harassment, I went to my counselor. She gave me a few options: I could either have the boys suspended, or have the teacher talk to them and receive an apology from my classmates. I went with the second option because I knew I would be labeled as “that girl” if I got them suspended- you know, that girl who snitches because she actually has moral standards and feels like she should stand up for herself? Yeah that one. I waited for an apology. The teacher told me he talked to the boys, but I had only witnessed him talk to one of them. He totally stood by me and made me feel safer and better overall regarding the situation. I have a good relationship with this teacher, and knew he was truly sorry and angry as well for what had happened. He hadn’t been in the room when the students were commenting, so it wasn’t his fault. I trusted that the issue would be resolved and with leniency moved past it. No apologies.

what is rape (your culture? turn)

‘

Rape culture is the idea that rape is okay, and rape jokes are okay.’

I felt guilty because I let it slip by. But what more could I do. Ironically enough, I was once again harassed. There was talk about me in the boys locker room, saying that my eyes were glued to a boy’s private part, moving back and forth from his eyes to his lower half. Once again, I felt embarrassed, stupid, and helpless. I finally decided enough is enough, and went to the office once again. This time was different. More serious. It was the second time it had happened. My parents were infuriated. The administration was unhappy with the entire situation. I stepped up and decided to be “that girl.” Even after talking to administration and knowing the boys would receive a talking to and punishment, I can’t say I felt better. I felt worse. I knew that even though I was doing the right thing, I would get ridiculed. Right after being reprimanded, one of the boys came back to class and starting talking about it, telling his classmates how stupid it was. I got up and left. My mom came to the school and once again I was in the office. I didn’t want it to be like this, but from society’s view, and most of my classmate’s opinions, I’m the one in the wrong. I’m the snitch. I’m the stupid one. I’m the one causing drama. I wish I could tell you that I feel better, but I can’t give you a happy ending. I can’t tell you that standing up for yourself is the best way to go because you’ll be treated like dirt when you do. Even though this was the second time I was harassed, being in the environment was punishment enough. You wouldn’t believe what comes out of the mouths of students. It’s ridiculous and I put up with it for far too long. It’s funny because some of you reading this may look at this scenario like it’s not a big deal, because it happens all the time. But that’s the problem. It’s happening so frequently that it’s becoming a normal part of our lives. It’s becoming okay. It’s time to start speaking up and standing up. Because if we don’t, before you know it being treated this way will become a justified part of everyday life.

‘

Rape culture is the way we objectify women and their bodies. We spend more time thinking about what women wear and we need to fix the way men think about it.’ JUSTIN RABAUT, 12

ERIN STEUER, 11

‘

People consider it to be an acceptance of rape. We have one, but I’ve never seen it before at Kettering.’ MICHAEL ROBINSON, 10

‘

Rape culture is something we need to talk about.’ TAYLOR SKELTON, 11

rape culture noun [ reyp ] - [ kuhl-cher ] a concept in which prevalent attitudes and practices normalize, excuse, tolerate, and even condone rape.

MURMUR NEWS 27 May 2014

2 boys + a couple parties + (1 girl + alcohol) + social media =

Indepth

a recipe for rape culture

BY SARAH MURPHY sarahmurphy@waterforddrift.com

School Psychologist, Jessica Osburn

Psychoanalyst, Harper West

aren’t

reported

Statistics courteousy of : Justice Department, National Crime Victimization Survey: 2008-2012

hile I think some good came from the way that this case was so publicized, and that it brought about conversations like the ones that we’re having, that aren’t often had, I do think that it came at the expense of the victim. Everything about her was scrutinized at a level that wasn’t warranted. Where ever anybody stands on the issue shouldn’t be her concern, but she probably couldn’t go on the internet with out reading horrible things about herself.

School Psychologist, Jessica Osburn

Of all completed rape victims:

of rapists never see a day in jail

Statistics courteousy of : 5.Department of Justice, Felony Defendents in Large Urban Counties: average of 2002-2006

WaterfordDrift.com

48 the .8% y

d rape t ’ ren e w

T h ough t

tha tt

.5%

re we

ictim blaming is blaming the victim instead of the perpetrator and is a problem, of course, because it brings shame for the victim as opposed to shame for the perpetrator, which is where we would hope it would be morally appropriate to place it. On the victim’s side, the shame, obviously, leads to a lot of depression and emotional problems, fears of embarrassment and social rejection, that can be quite harmful because not only do they experience the crime in itself but then they have this aftermath.”

97%

sexual assault cases

Statistics courteousy of : U.S. Department of Justice. National Crime Victimization Survey. 2008-2012.

ut es

In America, someone is sexually assualted every

The online activist group anonymous leaked a video the boys had taken, drawing national attention to the case and leading to the court trial. On March 17th, 2013, both boys were found guilty and sentenced to one year, each, in a juvenile correction center. Mays was given an additional year for the pictures he took of Jane Doe. When the news hit the stands, many news sources seemed to sympathize with the boys, stating that it was a tragedy that their futures had been ruined, Jane Doe was attacked on social media sites.

T h ough t

ust over a year ago, in Stuebenville, Ohio, two high school boys, 16 year old Ma’lik Richmond and 17 year old Trent Mays, were convicted of raping a 16 year old girl from West Virginia on August 11th/12th, 2012. On the night in question, the two were out at a series of parties, as was “Jane Doe,” the victim. Throughout the night, Mays and Richmond posted compromising videos and pictures of Jane Doe on social media, and digitally penetrated her while she was too intoxicated to give consent. ith this case, you could really study just the media aspect. Some of the first stories that came out about it violated the alleged victim in really horrible ways. They released footage with her name in it, and then there was this break where it got publicized even more, and then I think people got more sensitive, but there are still a lot of article’s that aren’t talking about her, they’re talking about how the boy’s future’s were ruined. Part of that, I think is for her anonymity, but not a lot was ever said about her. There weren’t a lot of stories about what happened to her, and it just looked lie they were only talking about these poor boys and their poor futures.

Statistic courtesy of:: “The Sexual Victimization of College Women,” U.S. Department of Justice, 2000

4.7%

didn’t know

t shows some of the dark sides of social media. I mean, in no way was what they did excusable, but they took a picture and they got a lot of comments from their friends that were positive, that almost could’ve encouraged them to do more things, and then it really took off, and they took these videos and things like that. At some point, someone could have stepped forward and said ‘this is crazy, what you guys are doing is so wrong’ but I think, on social media communities you post things and it explodes.

School Psychologist, Jessica Osburn

27 May 2014

Indepth

“You need to do this.”

Living through sexual assault

ou need to do this.” Adam is eight. His cousin, Garrett, standing pant less in front of him, is

14. “Either you do this, or I’ll tell everyone that you’re a faggot.” Adam doesn’t know what that means, but he’s afraid. He lives in a bad town. He doesn’t want people to hear bad things about him. He gives in. This is the first time. Adam is a student at Waterford Kettering whose name has been changed, like all other names in this story, to protect his identity. He represents two minorities: people who have been sexually assaulted, and boys who have been sexually assaulted. Adam once lived on the ground floor of an apartment building. It had become a routine to visit his cousins, who lived on top floor, to play. This time, he ran home. “I ran to my room and cried,” he murmured, hands quivering. “I was afraid because I didn’t know if it was going to happen again.” Two weeks later, he raced through the narrow hallways of his apartment building, playing hide and seek with all his cousins. He’d visited them several times since the incident, and nothing happened. He thought everything was OK. He thought he’d found a good place to hide: a microscopic, windowless room at the end of the hall, himself concealed behind two doors. But Garrett was seeking, and Adam was the first to be found. “You have to do this again.” Garrett loomed over him, unwavering, absolute.

1in6

Adam ran, but he didn’t get far. He sobbed as Garrett raped him the second time. “We’re done for now,” Garrett said as tears streamed down Adam’s face. He sat for a while, crying, finally alone. Adam was still sniffling when his cousin Emma, Garrett’s 6-year-old sister, found him. He told her that he fell, so she took him home. They didn’t talk about Garrett. When they arrived, it felt like a normal Saturday afternoon. Adam’s dad sat in their living room, watching “Dancing with the Stars.” His step mom and his older sister weren’t home; his younger sister, then a small infant, napped peacefully with his dad. Emma led him into his room. They sat on his bed and watched “Spongebob.” “But then my older cousin walked in,” Adam said. He closes his eyes as he begins again, taking a breath, voice shaking heavier than before. “He pushed us into my closet,” he said. “And then he made us both … ” He trails off; it’s difficult. By some saving grace, Adam’s dad decided to check up on the kids. Immediately after walking into the seemingly empty room, he realized the kids were playing in the closet and assumed the trio was doing something suspicious. He sent Garrett home. Emma stayed. Adam’s dad started to reprimand him, asking what they were doing in the closet. Adam refused to admit anything had happened; he was too scared. His dad wasn’t buying it. “And then he brought out the belt,” Adam said, with a nervous laugh, fear in his eyes. “Whenever he brings that out, you know it’s really serious.”

BY ALEXEA HANKIN & JULIE DENNIS alexeahankin@waterforddrift.com juliedennis@waterforddrift.com

At the sight of the belt, Adam caved. He paused, about to explain what was going on, but Emma blurted it out. A silence fell. “My dad looked at me, and you could see that he was upset, that he was sad,” Adam said. After clarifying with Adam what had happened to him and Emma, the cops were called, and his dad ran to his aunt’s apartment, fuming. “I remember the court trials being really long,” Adam said. “I was scared—I thought I would get taken away from my family.” Adam was in the second grade; his parents had just divorced. He barely saw his mother—he was under a lot of emotional turmoil. Adam’s parents put him in counseling, Emma moved in with her dad, and both families took out a restraining order against Garrett. It is still in place today. In counseling, Adam refused to open up. They switched him from counselor to counselor, hoping for a breakthrough. “Because I was so little, I didn’t know how to explain anything,” he said. “I was too scared to share my emotions and my feelings, so I pretended I didn’t have them.” The weight on his shoulders grew heavy with time. He began to isolate himself from his friends because of his fear—he felt like people were looking at him differently. Kids at school knew he was in counseling. “I started sitting by myself on the playground,” he said. “I was scared of talking to other kids. I thought they were going to make fun of me because of my situation. I lost my trust in other people, strangers or not.” He moved to a new town in the third grade,

men are sexually assaulted by the time they are 18 years old

compared to

1 4

in women millon men have histories of sexual abuse; times more than the number of men with heart diseasethe leading cause of death in men

(But only16% of those men consider themselves to have histories) of sexual abuse, compared to 64%of women w

MURMUR NEWS 27 May 2014

and made new friends. No one at his new school knew about his counseling or his past. But that didn’t last long. Soon, Adam felt comfortable enough to open up to his closest friend, who’d promised not to tell anyone. But a few days later, Adam noticed that kids were looking at him weird. “People started to ask me if I was gay,” he said. “I didn’t even know what that meant.” He was outed. The friends he’d gained left him, and yet again, he had to make new ones. It took three years for Adam to rebuild his social life. After those years had passed, Adam finally had stable friendships with people who knew his secrets but weren’t spreading them. He was still in counseling, but things were closer to getting better. He moved schools, and yet again, his past was deleted. His older sister, Jenny, was a senior in high school at the time. One night, she invited a friend over. Her name was Aubrey, and she was infamous for having a new boyfriend every week—not usually the type of person Jenny hung out with—but she was nice enough. Adam spent the day with the two of them, and eventually, they all fell asleep in Jenny’s room. Adam was awoken in the middle of the night by a tap on the shoulder. It was Aubrey. “Have you ever kissed anybody?” she whispered to him. Jenny was just feet away, sleeping. Adam was 12, not old enough to even think about having a girlfriend. He said no. “Do you want to?” she pushed, relentless. Adam panicked. He was too young for this. But he didn’t know what to say. He went with “I dunno.” So she kissed him.

“All I could think was ‘I shouldn’t be doing this,’” he said. So Adam pulled away. “I told her I wasn’t comfortable with doing that, so she said OK,” he said. “But she started moving closer and closer to me. She put her hand on my lap and slowly rubbed my leg.” As the night went on, Aubrey continued to put her hands on him, no matter how often he pushed them off. At one point, she wrapped her arms around him and started to rub her legs all over him. And he was fed up. Adam got up, shook his sister awake, and told her what was happening. His sister was groggy and refused to believe him. She called him paranoid and defended Aubrey. But Adam slept next to his sister for the rest of the night on her bed. Aubrey didn’t bother him again. The next day, Adam shared with his family everything that had happened the night before. Nobody believed him. They all agreed with his sister. He was just imagining things, still living in fear of what happened to him so many years ago. After months of trying to convince everyone, Jenny had a breakthrough. She told Adam that she believed him, but she never told him why. Shortly after, his parents began to listen too. Jenny ceased all communication with Aubrey, and Adam hasn’t heard about her since. “I don’t think anyone would believe me if I told them I was sexually assaulted by a girl,” Adam said. “They’d say stuff like, ‘Well, why’d

“ rape is not about sex, it’s about power.” -Psychoanalyst Harper West

One in every six rape victims are male. Most people wouldn’t believe this, only because our society has made it seem like guys are always the problem. Guys that are victims of these violent crimes may feel embarrassed or scared of everyone knowing what happened to them, so it all goes under the radar. The statistics are even worse with girls. But there’s always help out there: Kettering has Jessica Osburn, a psychologist. But the hotline numbers listed on this page can give anyone the anonymous help they need no matter who you are, a friend, family, or a survivor.

WaterfordDrift.com

Indepth

you say no?’” He believes that this is a side effect of the society he lives in. Guys are supposed to want that kind of thing, no matter what. It’s impossible for a guy to be sexually assaulted by a girl. “People would tell me I should’ve enjoyed it,” he said. “They feel like (a guy getting raped) is not even possible.” But the world is more complex than that. “People tell rape victims ‘It’s your fault,’” he said. “But they don’t want to be raped. Nobody does. No matter how someone dresses or how someone acts around someone else, it still shouldn’t be their fault.” Today, Adam would call himself a survivor of sexual assault. He sacrificed his childhood to counseling; his innocent lollygagging replaced by court dates and lonely hours on the playground. Today, he’s come to terms with what happened to him. He’s open about his experiences, even after so much pain. “When people open up about being raped, other people will say they’re doing it for attention because’s rape is a joke now,” he said. “But they’re not. They just want to be understood.”

People tell rape victims ‘It’s your fault,’ but they don’t want to be raped. Nobody does.’

Need to talk about sexual harassment or assault, scan the qr code for RAINN help

National Sexual Assault Hotline

1.800.HOPE(4673)

HAVEN Local sexual assault & domestic abuse services

Crisis Line Primary: (248)334-1274 Crisis Line Toll Free: (877)922-1274

27 May 2014

Profile

Schroder’s Story

What Ms. Schroder has to say about her teaching career, and how she got started

BY JASEN HIBBERD jasenhibberd@waterforddrift.com

obody expects a teacher to be out for the long term, but when it does happen, their position is filled by a long-term substitute. Unlike short-term substitutes, a long-term substitutes job is to take full responsibility of a class just as the teacher would if they were there. One of the most recent long term substitutes is Mrs. Schroder, who has been substituting for Ms. Giglio for well over a month. Schroder explains how she likes to teach and how it was that she started teaching. “I’ve been teaching for almost 40 years,” Schroder said. “I like to have fun, and I like to have a good time, and I like to have people really enjoy learning.” But of course Mrs. Schroder isn’t all fun and games all the time, and there is always time for discipline. “I think I know when a student has stepped over the line, and I’m quick to stop that,” Schroder said. According to Mrs. Schroder, she enjoys all of her classes very much, and contrary to popular belief, students do not misbehave in the presence of a substitute “I’ve been having a great time, and I think I’ve had maybe one kid be disrespectful to me, and I already talked to that student about their behavior.” Mrs. Schroder has a long history of teaching behind her. Starting out with teaching a 9th grade public speaking class before she was hired in Waterford. The well rounded substitute rapidly

bounced between schools in Waterford, going between Kettering, Pierce, and other alternative schools for over 35 years, never settling down in a particular place. She went into retirement for a short two years before a family matter brought her back into the district, she has been substituting for the last 5 years since then. While Mrs. Schroder was a teacher in the district, she taught many English and Social Studies classes. She is very passionate about teaching, and she thinks it’s one of the best things that you can possibly do. “I love the kids, I love the subject matter, I love getting kids enthused about the subject matter, (and) seeing light bulbs go on (in their head), I just love that stuff,” Schroder said. While she certainly loves her job, there are things that she does not like as well, most notably correcting papers. “Being an English teacher for all those years, I was buried in papers,” Schroder said. “I’m not anxious to correct papers for the rest of my life! I’m sure there will be a time I’ll stop subbing, but as of right now, I’m fine with it.” Mrs. Schroder attributes her want to substitute to all the kids that she gets to teach. The legendary work that this woman has put forth for countless years will continue to grow, changing student’s lives each and every day she walks into a new classroom.

More than a substitute How students felt about Ms. Schroder’s time filling in for injured teacher Toni Giglio

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It was kind of difficult because it was an abrupt change in teaching methods, but she was a very nice person and always did her very best to help you out.’ SONIA WHITTIE, 12

She was good in certain subjects, but very rough in others. I liked the way she taught psychology. She is a really nice person, and she made very realistic examples so you could learn better.’ JAMIE BUFORD, 12

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She was very nice to us, and she always tried her best. You could always tell she was trying her hardest.’ BIANCA JEROME, 12

MURMUR NEWS May 28 2014

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My goal is to make learning fun, and I think that the students would agree that I do that.’ MARGERET SCHRODER Substitute Teacher

What’s h

PPening?

Review

Current smartphone applications that are popular among students BY JOSHUA MARKO joshuamarko@waterforddrift.com

“2048”

“Clash Of Clans”

With this educational and addictive game, join the tiles with the same numbers and get to the 2048 tile.

Crush enemy clans in clan versus clan battles. Lead your clan to victory! Build your village, train your troops, and battle with millions of other players online.

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games

“I usually don’t care too much for games but I enjoy this game so much that I’ve gotten addicted to it in less than a week.” ALYSSA GRIMALDI, 11

I think this is easily one of the fastest games I’ve gotten addicted to. I love 2048 because of its concepts with math and strategy.” CHLOE TRAYNOR, 9

games

A parody of the game “Flappy Bird” that will lead you to believe this is the official end for possibly the #1 app of all time.

“I am so thankful for this game because I was really getting tired of Flappy Bird. I feel like this is my revenge.” BRANDON SPEAGLE, 11 w

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It’s cool because when you get a high score, it pushes your friends to want to beat you.” GANNON WALL, 9

“Flappy Smash”

WaterfordDrift.com

“Don’t Step On The White Tile” games

An addicting Japanese game that tests your reflexes against time and movement.

27 May 2014

Sports

BY KRISTIN WARHOLAK kristinwarholak@waterforddrift.com

MEET THE

Eddie Inglsbee - Senior 1st Base/Right Field | 1st Year Varsity

“I started playing when I was about eight, because I went to a Tigers game and had a lot of fun there. My favorite part about playing is making a big play; whether it’s a big hit or a diving catch. I’ve kept playing all these years just cause of the love of the sport. I always love when baseball season comes around.”

Elliot Morgan - Junior 2nd Base | 1st Year Varsity

“I started playing baseball when I was around six. I started because it was what my dad played. My favorite part about playing is the great people I meet while playing and when I’m hitting the ball great. My role model player is Jeff Samardzija. He’s a fantastic pitcher and hitter and he’s on The Cubs so he’s even more of a trooper to play for them.”

Kyle Weston - Sophomore Left Field | 2nd Year Varsity

“I started playing when I was nine. I’ve always loved something about being able to fade away to baseball and play with a team that supports me. My best ability is staying positive even if I strike out. My role model is Miguel Cabrera. He is by far the greatest player, but he is also the guy having the most fun. He’s always smiling, and he plays because he truly loves the game.”

Jordan Fujarski Senior - 3B/CF 2 Year Varsity Player

Nick Caroway Senior - 2B 3 Year Varsity Player

Brett Reynolds Senior - P/1B 3 Year Varsity Player

Avery Dudek Senior - P/1B/RF 3 Year Varsity Player

Lukas Jacob Senior - P 1 Year Varsity Player

Kyle LeMarbe Senior - 1B 2 Year Varsity Player

Jon Scarber Senior - P/OF 2 Year Varsity Player

Daniel Newcomb Junior - C 2 Year Varsity Player

Jordan Masters Junior - P 1 Year Varsity Player

Taylor Salva Junior - 3B 1 Year Varsity Player

Chris Deanda Junior - OF 1 Year Varsity Player

Paul Turk Junior - SS 2 Year Varsity Player

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2014 2013 MURMUR NEWS 27 20 May September

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PLAYERS

Cassie Mistrzak Senior - OF/CF 4 Year Varsity Player

Ester Aribas Senior 1 Year Varsity Player

Kayla Pelker Senior - OF/RF 4 Year Varsity Player

Jordyn Troy Senior - 1B/2B 4 Year Varsity Player

Mackenzie Norton Senior - P/1B 4 Year Varsity Player

Lindsay Postal Senior - C 4 Year Varsity Player

Emily Aurrichio Senior - OF 2 Year Varsity Player

Sara Ameson Freshman - OF 1 Year Varsity Player

Sara Brackins Junior - 2B/OF 3 Year Varsity Player

Katie Root Sophmore - 3B/C 2 Year Varsity Player

Miranda Stanley Sophomore - OF 1 Year Varsity Player

Becca Neal Senior - P 4 Year Varsity Player

BY GABRIELLE HILLIARD gabriellehilliard@waterforddrift.com

Sarah O’Connor- Senior Shortstop | 4th Year Varsity

“I started playing softball in kindergarten because my friends were all playing and I thought it might be fun to try. My favorite part about playing is the competition and being with my friends. My best ability is probably my defense.”

Emma Colgrove Junior - 3B/C 3 Year Varsity Player

Sports

Brianna Larkin Freshman- C/3B 1 Year Varsity Player

Nicole“ Stanisz- Junior Outfield | 1st Year Varsity

“ I started to play in second grade. I was really iffy about it but I ended up loving it. All of the seniors on my team are my role models. They have the best attitude and are always willing to help me. My favorite part about playing are the bonds I share with my teammates on both my travel team and high school team.”

Maddie French- Freshman Pitcher | 1st Year Varsity

20 May September Waterforddrift.com 27 WaterfordDrift.com 2014 2013

“I started playing softball in third grade just because I heard we could sign up and I loved it. My favorite part about playing is when the teams hard work pays off. My motivation to keep playing is to get better and prove all the people wrong who have told me I’m too small to be a successful pitcher. My biggest challenge is staying mentally positive.”

Sports

BY JANELLE SANTACRUZ janelllesantacruz@waterforddrift.com

the Racism

Comments made by Clippers owner Donald Sterling leave NBA fans baffled

ne man’s story is another man’s ruin. Hispanic. I’m sure we all know, or at least pretend to know, what’s “I want you to love them- privately,” states the audio of the call, causgoing on in the world of the LA Clippers right now. ing me to shake my head in disgust at Sterling. A phone call between owner Donald Sterling and his ex-girlfriend You can take either side of this story, but somewhere along the previously surfaced to the top of the social media drama wave. The line you will have to acknowledge that there was unnecessary racism 15 minutes released of this phone call are quite….racthrown into the odd mix of why he was even getting ist and just plain weird. When I listened to the call I mad about a picture with Magic Johnson. I do agree It bothers me a lot that with the fact that yes, Donald Sterling is clearly a raccouldn’t help but laugh at how dumb the comments you want to broadcast ist but I’m not sure how, seeing as he is an owner for sounded as they protruded from his 80-year-old that you’re associating an NBA team. mouth. This all began with V Stiviano, Sterling’s girlfriend at I don’t agree with the fact that Stiviano decided to with black people.’ the time. Stiviano posted a picture of Magic Johnson record the clearly private phone call which someway, DONALD STERLING and herself on Instagram. Sterling got word of the picsomehow magically ended up in the hands of the Donald Sterling ture and decided to call Stiviano, making comments media. It all smells a little fishy to me. about minorities and how she should “just bring him In the end…. Sterling will still have to pay the $2.5 in,” assuming that Magic Johnson was some animal or homeless per- million dollar charge filed against him and he will still have to sell the son. Los Angeles Clippers team to a new owner. The thing I find most odd about this is that the call was recorded. The $2.5 million will be going to a charity that speaks out against Stiviano secretly recorded the conversation despite it being illegal to discrimination and Sterling is banned from ever owning an NBA team do in California. ever again, though the ban does not apply to his family. Sterling quote on quote calls Stiviano stupid for wanting to be out in Watch out NBA, you might just possibly get another Sterling in your public with people of a different race, or in his own words, minorities. I future. find this quite confusing myself considering Stiviano herself is obviously

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Better than 22

Phelps’ return to the Olympics is highly anticipated by sports fanatics around the world BY LUCAS HENDRICKS lucashendricks@waterforddrift.com

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pongebob SquarePants said it himself, 25 is better than 24. Olympic swimmer Michael Phelps is taking his word into consideration as he announced that he plans on breaking his record of 22 medals at the 2016 Rio Summer Olympics. Phelps said he would be coming out of retirement and set his goals for the gold medal yet again. Phelps still holds the record for most decorated Olympian in history so there will be less excitement going into the trials, but there will be a question that Phelps will have to answer in the pool: can he keep up with the younger, better conditioned, new age of swimmers?

Although he failed to take the gold in the 200 Free at the London Olympics, Phelps is a clear favor to win that race and the 100 Fly. Being the three time defending champion in the 100 Fly, Phelps has a lot of weight on his shoulders, but if anyone can do it, Phelps can. Phelps has also taken some time off of conditioning because of retirement. While Phelps was out celebrating his swim career, spending his sponsor money, getting out of shape day by day, swimmers across the world trained to beat his plethora of records. Although his retirement may have been a long 20 months, Phelps came back better than ever in Charlotte and Mesa, Arizona. Phelps even tied the fourth fastest time for the 100 Meter Butterfly worldwide. Phelps may be coming back a better swimmer, which seems an almost impossible thing to do. If Phelps is to compete at Rio and have success in his races he may go from one of the best Olympians to ever live, to one of the best athletes to ever live. I know that’s a bold statement, but Phelps has overcame every obstacle in his way and has a list of accomplishments like no other athlete has.

MURMUR NEWS 27 May 2014

Sports

Athletes of the month Junior Daniel Newcomb and sophomore Maeva Revol are the top performing athletes from WKHS in the month of May.

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BY LUCAS HENDRICKS lucashendricks@waterforddrift.com Photos by Taylor Skelton

Daniel Newcomb Varsity Baseball

Maeva Revol Varsity Track

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Sophomore Maeva Revol is in her first year of Track. Revol was a part of the 4x200 meter relay team that beat the school record. Revol also runs the 100 and 200 meter races.

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Junior Daniel Newcomb has been on the Varsity Baseball team for two years. He bats fourth in the lineup and is starting at catcher for the first time.

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WKHS Track State Qualifiers The boys 4x100 qualified for the state meet by coming in first place at the regional meet Friday, May 16.

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Lickety Splits Ice Cream New ice cream shop opens up on the corner of M-59 and Airport Road. The store is owned by Kettering parent Tim Stinson.

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Waterford Graduations Both Mott and Kettering graduation commencements take place in the O’rena at Oakland University on June 1. Mott at 10:00 a.m and Kettering at 2:00 p.m.

St. Mary’s Polish Fair America’s largest high school fair was on Memorial weekend. It was held at St. Mary’s High School in Orchard Lake.

Lady Captains Win Division Kettering’s own Varsity girls Softball team won their game on Thursday, May 21 to take the KLAA Lakes division title.

27 May 2014

Opinion

Overwhelmed or Overreacting? Self diagnosing has become popular among high school students

BY TIFFANY MOUNTAIN tiffanymountain@waterforddrift.com

ne second I’m driving, and so bad today.” I never really understood what everything is perfectly fine. anxiety was, in my mind I always thought of The next my mind is running it being somebody who is constantly stressed a hundred miles per hour. What’s in front out, until I experienced it first hand and of me doesn’t seem clear, my heart races. realized it has nothing to do with stress. What’s happening to me? My hands begin to The very first time it happened, I was in tremble and before I know it my room listening to my I’m pulling over to the side mom and step dad fight, Once a week, I find myof the road, trying to catch I hated it. After listening self in my therapy buildmy breath. My chest feels as to the yelling for a while, ing, sitting on a beige if its caving in and then the my heart began to race, I couch, staring down at tears come streaming down had no clue why. I started the black mug filled with my face. I wait until my to get really nervous and body starts to calm down. sat on the floor, trying to different writing utensils.’ Anxiety took over my body. slow down my breathing Every once in a while this which only resulted in me happens, and let me tell you, it’s no fun. Once hyperventilating on my bedroom floor. I a week I find myself in my therapy building, became so afraid I started to cry, eventually sitting on a beige couch, staring down at my mom and step dad heard me and came the black mug filled with different writing to my rescue. They sat there with me, holding utensils. Across from me sits my therapist, me and calming me down. After it was over, legs crossed and stern face, ready to talk to I was extremely confused and while all that me about different strategies I can use to was happening I felt like I was dying. I didn’t control my attacks. even know why it happened, it just did. Through my high school years I’ve watched Since my first anxiety attack, it drives me my peers flaunt their “anxiety,” like it was insane when people self diagnose themselves happening all the time. Tweets covered my with so-called “anxiety” when real anxiety is timeline saying, “Oh my gosh, my anxiety is an actual mental illness. Having a serious

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medical issue is not something to be proud of. People post about their so called ‘anxiety’ on a daily basis, striving to receive pity from their peers, when in reality they aren’t even struggling with anxiety, they just have a lot on their plate. Social media is commonly used as an outlet for people to seek attention when they might not even be going through what I consider, my worst nightmare. Though they might really have some type of exhausting issue, most of the time it’s not anxiety. Stress is confused with anxiety the most. The textbook definition of stress is a state of mental or emotional strain, or tension resulting from adverse or very demanding circumstances. Basically, stress occurs when somebody is put in an overwhelming situation that causes them to become mentally and emotionally drained. An anxiety attack, medically considered a panic attack, is a type of anxiety disorder in which you have repeated attacks of intense fear that something bad will happen where the symptoms can feel awful, intense, and frightening.

Textbook Definitions* isorder ulsive d e-comp e Obsessiv ple with OCD ar ts or Peo ough th t an (OCD): st by con form burdened use them to per ca he fears that s or routines. T tual lled certain ri hts are ca e called g thoug ar disturbin and the rituals ns, obsessio s. ion is with th at compuls People th order : f terror h is o d s g ic lin Pan wit fee n have d repeatedly io it d n co an nic of a pa ddenly strike su g. Symptoms pain, in est rn h a c , w g o n n ti or re swea strong attack a ns (unusually eling nd a fe tio palpita heartbeats), a r irregula g in of chok

isorder stress d that umatic Post-tra condition atic a is D PTS m (PTSD): ing a trau op follow t, such as can devel en ev g in ify e rr and/or te physical assault, th e, or d on a sexual of a love th ea d d te unexpec r. ral disaste or a natu lso called order : A xiety dis volves Social an , social anxiety in bia social pho g worr y and selflmin ay social overwhe ut ever yd ed by ness abo g conscious fear of being jud .A / situations ference.com dictionary.re others. ed by:http:// id ov pr ns *definitio

Anxiety on my mind Senior Carson Eungard demonstrates how somebody with anxiety feels. Photo by Tiffany Mountain

MURMUR NEWS 27 May 2014

Feature

Robotic revolution What team 3098 has recently accomplished and what’s in store for next year

BY SARAH CIMINILLO sarahciminillo@waterforddrift.com

ot many people are aware of the accomplishments the 3098 Kettering Robotics Team has made, and maybe they aren’t aware of how much time goes into builidng multi-thousand dollar machines. On April 23rd through the 26th, the robotics team attended the Edward Jones Dome in St. Louis, Missouri for the final competition that included 100 different teams in their division, 10 matches, and only 10 teams total to be ranked. The teams that made the top 10 are semifinalist and can continue on to this summer’s competition. The team will be going to MARC (Michigan Area Robotics Competition), which will be 45 different teams competing. “In the middle or end of July, we will be going to Indianapolis which will contain the top 75 teams, if we get accepted,” Steve Smitka, teacher and coach of team 3098, said. The robot the team created was a machine designed to launch a yoga ball 10 feet into a goal. “Our biggest problem is driving too fast and colliding with other robots, our battery would come unplugged,” Smitka said. “Our tread on the wheels comes off when we’re driving so fast,” senior Jeremy Callahan said. “We had to use at least ten different wheels.

It was like Nascar in the back.” The team ended up ranking and placing number nine in the whole competition and hope to go onto competitions this summer. “It was really awesome,” junior Brian Lowen said. “You were always busy doing something inbetween sightseeing and then actually doing robotics and tournaments. I think it was a great experience, seeing the city and attending the tournament, the whole thing was great.” Fortunately, the robot never broke down which is common with many competitors. The team will began to recruit new members in the fall in order to give time to the existing members this summer as they attend workshops and competitions. The team will be working with the same robot. Next season they will create a whole new robot, but as of right now they don’t know what’s in store for next years robot. “We’re looking into Robot Boot Camp, which will consist of programing workshops, building workshops, and resurrecting our basketball robot,” Smitka said.

Printing Plastic How to use Robotics teacher Steve Smitka’s 3D printer Place your object on the “MakerBot Digitizer” to get a digital 3D model

Choose your color Filament Extruder for the printer

Load the design onto the computer, press start and wait for your object to print

The 2014 3098 Robot “Watson” took the team all the way to nationals in St.Louis Missouri where they placed 9th in the nation

WaterfordDrift.com 27 May 2014

Review BY CATHERINE HABBA catherine@waterforddrift.com

Makeup Madness

Reviews to help save you time and money when shopping for makeup Pro Longwear Foundation I think this foundation works very well, I was very pleased with the results. The formula is really smooth and it’s not too thick. It definitely lasts all day, even longer than the 15 hours it claims to last. It doesn’t look or feel like I have a bunch of makeup on, it covers any acne and redness I may have during the day without a shine on my face. Cost: $31

L'Oreal True Match Lumi Foundation This product has a more liquidy base to it, which I don’t really like. It doesn’t go on as smooth as the Mac foundation did, but it is worth the price. It only lasts about 8 hours and would not last as well in warm weather. Overall it looks really good and it is a very buildable product which is a good factor to look for when shopping for foundations. Cost:$13

Both foundations work well. It just depends on how much a person is willing to spend. You really get what you pay for when it comes to makeup products. Overall both products are very satisfying. One By One Volum Express This product is great for separating the lashes as well as giving them a boost in volume. I have the color Blackest Black and it is exactly that; black. I love dark mascaras, they completely change the way a person looks. The bristles are really fine and the product is able to cover all lashes in just one coat. It never fails when I double or even triple coat, it just gives them a thicker look. This is by far one of my favorite mascaras. Cost:$8

The Turbo Volum Express This mascara has a really wet formula. It takes a long time for it to dry and I like to layer my mascara a lot to add volume and length. I have a hard time doing so because of the formula. I find that the more I add the more clumpy my lashes get. I was really disappointed in this mascara. It made my lashes look like a long clumpy mess. I wouldn’t recommend this product to anyone. Cost:$8

Makeup talk with Kettering students

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All of the makeup I wear are drug store products, besides my eye shadow which is from the Naked palette.” SAM CHAPEL, 12

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I don’t think it’s necessary to wear makeup. We were all born without it and we are all beautiful.” TAYLOR DEROUSSE, 12

MURMUR NEWS 27 May 2014

What’s h

PPening?

Review

Current smartphone applications that are popular among students BY JOSHUA MARKO joshuamarko@waterforddrift.com

“2048”

“Clash Of Clans”

education

games

With this educational and addictive game, join the tiles with the same numbers and get to the 2048 tile.

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“I usually don’t care too much for games but I enjoy this game so much that I’ve gotten addicted to it in less than a week.” ALYSSA GRIMALDI, 11

I think this is easily one of the fastest games I’ve gotten addicted to. I love 2048 because of its concepts with math and strategy.” CHLOE TRAYNOR, 9

Crush enemy clans in clan versus clan battles and lead your clan to victory! Build your village, train your troops, and battle with millions of other players online.

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It’s cool because your friends are always trying to get a better score than you so it’s challenging.” GANNON WALL, 9

“Flappy Smash” games

A parody of the game “Flappy Bird” that will lead you to believe this is the official end for possibly the #1 downloaded app of all time. It’s time for the Flappy Bird haters to be satisfied.

“I am so thankful for this game because I was really getting tired of Flappy Bird. I feel like this is my revenge.” BRANDON SPEAGLE, 11 w

WaterfordDrift.com

“Don’t Step On The White Tile” games

An addicting Japanese game that tests your reflexes against time and movement.

27 May 2014

Backpage

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Student athletes compete during the spring sport season

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by Tay Photos

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1. STEP FOR STEP Junior Liz Micovich hustles during the 4x800 meter relay.

4 4. 2. BATTING BATTLE Preparing to hit, junior Paul Turk gears up. 3. SWINGING SARAH Senior Sarah O’Connor gets a hit while up to bat. 4. PITCHER PERFECT Senior Dalton Bedgood winds up the ball in preparation to pitch. 5. HOT HEELS “When I run base to base I feel pressure and enthusiasm to make it to the next base,” Emma Colegrove said. 6. MAD MUSCLES Junior Danotiss Smith sprints down the track. 7. SMILING SALVA Junior Taylor Salva gives a hat off smile to his team during a home game.

WaterfordDrift.com

27 May 2014