Embed Size (px)
DESCRIPTION
Here lies the final edition of the RAMpage for the 2-12-2013 school year.
Citation preview
JOIN THE STAMPEDE
Inside This Issue
Final College Decisions
Graduation
Cheaters Never Win
SGA Elections
JROTC Gives Back
Freshmen Review 2013
Prom Review and Best
Dressed
Music for the Summer
Summer Movies
Ask A RAM
NEWS:
Final College Decisions
Graduation
Cheaters Never Win
SGA President: Juwan vs. Vaughn
JROTC Cadets Give Back
GMEA All State Band
SAT taken at AMHS
Crunch Time
Senior Week Vs. Homecoming Week
Teacher Turnover Rate
11 Million: 1 Family March
FEATURES:
Teacher Superlatives
Val & Sal of Arabia Magnet
Seniors’ Summer Plans
Post-Graduation Plans
Saying Farewell to Seniors
Freshmen Look Back on 2013
AMHS Prom Best Dressed
SPORTS:
Heart of a Ram
D1 Bound
Gym League
OPINIONS:
Summer Music
Summer Movies
My AMHS Years
My Perspective on AMHS
Improving AMHS
Don’t Sell Yourself Short
Am I Ready to Leave?
Breaking the Habit
Am I Really Ready to
Graduate
How I Chose My College
Senior Failing Rate
The Last Game
Prom Review
Leaving Junior Year
Walking Towards Senior
Year
Remembering Freshmen
Year
Tips for Upcoming Freshmen
The Best Pencils
Moving Past the Break-Up
Ask A Ram
NEWS
Our time is now! Since the first day we stepped foot in Arabia Mountain High
School as seniors, we knew our journey was only starting to begin. Every senior is
excited about finally running the school, having everyone look up to them, and
most importantly applying to college.
We all have that dream school that we always knew we wanted to go to and
we finally have the chance to apply and find out if your dream school is the
right one for you. Most seniors are just too excited to wait for regular admission
and decide to apply for Early Admission.
For those who applied for early admission and were accepted to their dream
schools were filled with joy and felt that a huge weight was lifted from their
shoulders. Those who had missed early admission or decided not to do it still had
that weight on their shoulders but now it is the end of the year and everyone
knows or should have an idea of what college they will be attending this fall.
Georgia Tech
Karri Thomas
Asier Asayas
Daijah Suggs
Hampton University
Christina Williams
Miah Harris
Aaliyah Copeland
Kyle Stroger
Alabama A &M
Sydne Ridgeway
Jazzminn Minnitee
Quintavious Lowe
Diamond Walker
Georgia State University
Niya Falls
Jessica Wray
Sydne Sailor
Alexis Prince
Lydia Briggs
Kayla Camper
Theresa Ogbu
Th
Auburn University
Danielle Richardson
North Carolina A&T
Evan Smith
Georgia Southern University
Gia Fore
Brandon McLean
Alexis Avina
Jaliyah Holmes
Jennifer Colbert
Dorien Campbell
Georgia Gwinnett College
Kiera Hogan
Noely Escorza
Brittany Davis
Embry –Riddle University
Briana Brown
Kennesaw State University
Irene Polk
Robyn Richardson
Miah Watkins
Fatoumata Sacko
Brandon Jones
Columbia College
Erica LeBlanc
Clark Atlanta University
Romello Vann
By Noely Escorza
Jacksonville State
Cydney Pollard
NEWS
Valdosta State University
Lauren Thomas
Rikita Alford
Amari Jones
Alexis Brooks
Chelsea Ramsey
Brianna Shepherd
Ophelia Kent
Eunee Ballard
Kennedi Thompson
Jamel Shorter
Teresa Hope
Ty-Tiana Goode
Franjelica Amiker
Tayler Evans
Gabrielle Strickland
Cameron Kirby
Aveda Institute
Taliyah Knight
India White
Tuskegee University
Loni Mostiller
Raven Williams
Kayla Brown
Albany State Universtiy
Makia Jackson
Makyla Jackson
Melondy Washington
University of West Georgia
Tierra Travis
Christina Ramsey
Brook Jones
Jasmine Benn
Ashlee Miller
Tennessee State University
Tiara Banks
India Webb
Marissa Morgan
Spelman College
Brianna Sims
Cheadee Doe
Kandlar Rhodes
Tekari Matthews
Cerise Graham
Tiara Allen
Jordan Green
Morehouse College
Simeon McKelvey
Christum Noelle
Zachary Lowe
Oxford College
Yadeni Alemayehu
Kaalyah McIntosh
Xavier Universtiy
Tyler Francis
Jackson State University
Devin Crawford
Shaunya Sutton
Geselle Coleman
Mississippi Valley State University
Courtney Henry
Brenau College
Asia Brown
Imani McMahon
Savannah College of Art and Design
Tenita Edwards
Miiauna Felix-Serrano
Daiton Thrash
Bethune Cookman
Kayla Else
Alyhia Garvins United States Marine Corps
Eugene Davenport
United States Air Force
Fabian Williams
University of Alabama
Malcolm Marsh
ICDC College
Bryson Jones
Mercer University
Micah Watts
University of Georgia
Bria Barrett
Alexcia McIntosh
Fort Valley State ity
Tahira Scott Howard University
Diamond Coles University of Florida
Nicholas Polk
North Georgia University
Morgan Draine
NEWS
By Diamond Coles
After an entire year of planning, the senior advisor, Ms.
Andrews and the senior class officers are ready for their graduation
ceremony plans to come to life. Since last April, Ms. Andrews and the
senior class officers have shared and offered ideas towards the event
that all seniors have been waiting for—graduation. The bunch went
to places such as Panera to brainstorm and come up with ideas
suitable for everyone. They found it easy to do it this way because
everyone seemed to be more relaxed while discussing over food.
After finding it easier to reach peers through social media, they
began creating surveys for people to take through links provided on
twitter and the class website.
It has taken months for Ms. Andrews to collect the
ideas of students, search for a venue, and work with the administrative team to
accommodate the parent’s desires. “It’s a year-long process, something that doesn’t
happen overnight.” she stresses, “Although, you can’t please everybody, you can try to
please the majority.”
The ceremony is said to already be completely
organized and ready for a go. The song that the seniors will
sing collectively is entitled “The World’s Greatest” by R. Kelly.
Other selections that will be played during the ceremony
include “Mountains and Molehills” by P.J. Morton. The song
narrates the life of a girl who finds her being more successful
after stopping herself from making mountains out of molehills.
“Students have to stop making these little molehills into
mountains,” Ms. Andrews says, “With the help of their peers
and teachers encouraging them and uplifting them it is hard
to understand why little things get blown so far out of
proportion.”
Although she is very ecstatic for the quickly approaching graduation, Ms.
Andrews says, “I can’t wait to sleep and have no more phone calls from parents or
students.” She has adamantly exclaimed to the senior class that she is very proud of her
students for getting to this point, but she wants them to keep this in mind, “Pressure creates
the most refined things in life…the process of applying pressure can ensure the item is safe,
flexible, sturdy, durable, etc. So pressure is good if applied correctly and consistently with
breaks! I hope that your pressure process has created a refined AMHS citizen of the world
who is a success in and outside the classroom.”
Further details regarding the graduation can be found on the next page or in the mailboxes
of the senior class.
NEWS
By Diamond Coles
Date: WEDNESDAY May 22nd, 2013
Location: All seniors report to Stone
Mountain Park for Class Picnic
Time: 8:00-3:20
Transportation will not be provided
Date: FRIDAY May 24th, 2013
Event: All students report to AMHS
for Commencement rehearsal at
GICC
Time: The buses will leave AMHS at
8:45 a.m. Returning at 12:00 p.m.
Date: MONDAY May 20th, 2013
Location: Seniors report to EIC and 2nd
Seniors report to theater for final checkout
Event: Pick up graduation tickets/senior gift.
Senior Lunch – Ice Cream Social - Yearbook
Signing
Time: Senior Dismissal 2:30 P.M.
Date: SUNDAY May 19th, 2013
Event: Pre-Commencement Ceremony
Location: The Gym
Time: 3:00
SENIORS ARE REQUIRED TO WEAR ALL BLACK.
Reception will follow in the cafeteria.
Date: THURSDAY May 23rd, 2013
Location: Seniors report to the football field.
Time: 7:30
Event: Screen on the Green
Date: SATURDAY May, 25th, 2013
Location: Georgia International Convention
Center
Event: GRADUATION CEREMONY Students must
report to by 9:00 A.M. Caps and Gowns required
All Black Attire
Date: FRIDAY May 17th, 2013
Event: Pre-commencement Practice Location: Gym
Time: 11:11 or 11:45
NEWS
A teacher’s worst nightmare is catching a student cheating, so why would a
teacher cheat? Over 30 teachers in the Atlanta Public school district were discovered
cheating on the Criterion-Referenced Competency Test (CRCT). Many teachers
cheated because they wanted to receive an increase in their salary, feared losing their
jobs and some just did it because they were forced. However, no matter what their
intentions were their choices affected the parents, students and the entire community.
Cheating has and always will be unacceptable no matter who you are.
Unfortunately test scores were being changed since 2005-2009. This shows that there
are plenty of students who were promoted to the next grade without being fully
prepared for the upcoming grade level. In this case the teachers were not giving the
kids a fair opportunity to demonstrate how they have progressed. Photography teacher
Ms. Sheldon agrees strongly, she says “when the students are promoted to the next
grade level they are unprepared and cheating on the CRCT sets them up for failure.”
Principle Swanson expresses his feelings towards the scandal by saying “students need
to know their skill level; if you allow them to cheat they will never know.”
With every choice and decision you make results in a
consequence; that is exactly what happened to Atlanta public
school teachers. Majority of the community believes that their
punishment was too harsh, some say they are treating the teachers as
if their criminals or drug dealers. Counselor, Ms. Wesley, left, says “not
being able to teach again would have been enough.”
Ms. Sheldon also believes that jail time is a tad extreme she
thinks that they should give back to the community or either pay a
monetary fine that is fair rate to the bonuses they have received. Mr.
Swanson feels that they should be required to “work with each student they cheated
for” he says.
As mentioned before many students and their families
were affected by this scandal. Unfortunately some parents had
an idea that their kids were not capable of passing the CRCT. It
was uncommon for a kid to be struggling and then succeed in a
subject out of no where. Senior Karri Thomas, right, would not be
disappointed if she made it this far “I would feel bad not
unconfident because since then I have been completing my own
work and test.”
Charles Akin-David says “the teachers may have cheated
for you but you never needed it” because you have progressed to the other grade
levels by yourself.
Even though some of the teachers had good intentions when they were
cheating it impacted the Atlanta Public School District Tremendously. Schools are now
suffering; because many parents no longer trust their institutions. Hopefully Atlanta
Public schools will eventually redeem themselves by proving to their community that they are worthy when it comes to education.
By Aiyana Parks
NEWS
Every year, Arabia Mountain students elect a new SGA (Student Government
Association) president to represent them. The SGA’s duties and responsibilities is to bring up
the problems and concerns that student has and report them to the leader of the school.
The president is the one who represents the SGA, presents new ideas, and tries their best to
make it happen, in hopes of making the school a better place.
This year, we had two candidates who ran for the presidential position. Juniors,
Vaughn Dowdley, right, and Juwan Thompson, left, plastered their name and face
everywhere around the school expecting to gain votes from everyone, including
underclassmen.
On Monday, April 22nd during their lunch period, freshmen, sophomores, and juniors
were given the chance to vote for who they wanted to see in office next year as their 2013-
2014 president.
This was the first year that, Junior, Vaughn Dowdley has decided
to become a member of the SGA. He came in wanting change, and
that is what he attempted to do. Vaughn planned to put in programs
that could bring the school together & bring about more school spirit.
He wanted to institute a new renovated spirit squad & outreach
programs the help to clean the community and educate others about
the environment. Vaughn also planned to change the lack of school
pride. He wants to make sure students take care of each other and
their school. He made his campaign based on his slogan, “We are one
ram, with one voice.”
Candidate, Juwan Thompson, has been a member of SGA
before. During the 2012-2013 school year, he
served as our SGA Vice President, which motivated him to run for
President. As the winner, Juwan plans to institute two new
organizations that he is not ready to reveal just yet, a student
lounge in the cafeteria, new fundraising events along with Taste of
Arabia, more meaningful pep rallies, and creating the largest
community service event next spring. He plans to develop school
spirit, and creating a school store that sales apparel and fan gear
available for students to buy. His campaign ran on his slogan, “You
are who you are, where you are, because of the choices you
make. So make the right choice and vote me your 2013-2014 SGA
president.”
The entire week, the school was filled with both candidates
campaign posters, also while their speeches were continuously running non-stop in the
school lobby. The same day students voted, their votes were counted. Vaughn fell a little
short, leaving Juwan Thompson as the winner and our new SGA president for the 2013-2014
school year. Students are looking forward to see what he brings.
Even though Juwan defeated Vaughn for SGA president, Vaughn won the race for
12th grade president, so he will still be involved in SGA next year.
By Jordan Barron
NEWS
April 4th was a very important day for Arabia
Mountain and Murphey Candler students alike. On
this day, 32 cadets from GA-9512, Arabia’s Air Force
JROTC unit, visited the elementary school as a part
of the Junior Achievement program. This program
focuses on educating youth on financial literacy and
the impact of economics on communities. Major
Charles Baker, JROTC instructor and leader of the Junior Achievement
partnership, was excited to work with Murphey Candler because he feels that
our school has a standing obligation to volunteer there.
For some cadets, the trip to Murphey Candler was especially important. “I
remember as a 5th grader when Junior Achievement came to my Murphey
Candler classroom,” says Cadet 1st Lieutenant Wesley Calhoun, “it felt great to
pay Junior Achievement forward.”
Making an impact on the younger
children was a highlight of the event for all
of the cadets involved. In Cadet Airman
Miles Logan’s eyes, the experience was
life-changing. “It helped me open my eyes
to how important it is for students to
interact with older peers that they can look
up to,” he says. Logan also enjoyed that
the kids referred to him as Mr. Cadet
Logan.
Major Baker is thoroughly looking
forward to having cadets volunteer with
Junior Achievement in the future. Cadets’
active involvement helped make the
event successful. He can’t wait to take
those cadets who aren’t graduating back
to Murphey Candler next year to continue
to build a tradition of service.
JROTC Cadets give back to Murphey Candler
By Karri Thomas
Photo Credit Major Baker
NEWS
Dallas Turner has been a member of the Arabia Mountain High
School Band for three years. He was selected for the GMEA Honor Band
for two years in a row. He has played various instruments, although he was
selected to play the Oboe at the GMEA conference.
This year’s conference was March 2nd, 2013 in Savannah, Georgia.
Dallas began practicing during the summer in late July. He would spend
ours on the same line mastering the tone and pitch of each note. Mr.
Turner would also practice his instrument for at least two-three hours a
day. Dallas has also played the
clarinet during the marching band
and concert band season. He has
worked closely with his section and
has help teach small ensemble
pieces.
Dallas prepared for this
conference by always mastering
his craft and listening to artist such
as Kenny G for inspiration.
Mr. Turner also likes to listen and
studying classical music.
Dallas went on to say, "The 2013 All-State event was also a huge
success. Every band performed spectacularly, and the guest conductors
were outstanding. But the All- State weekend would not have been a
success without the efforts of Mr. Johnson."
By Sean Thomas
By Taneishia Watson-Parks
All AMHS juniors were able to take the SAT on Wednesday, April 17, 2013, free
for the first time. Arabia Mountain received enough money and decided to use
it for the junior’s first try at the SAT, which was taken at the school. Seniors felt like
it was unfair and unnecessary because they had to pay to take the test. The
seniors all felt really betrayed and felt as if not important enough to have the
same privilege as the juniors.
It shows the senior’s views about the juniors taking the SAT at AMHS. When
everybody heard this, only the seniors like, Alyhia Garvins,
expressed, “It’s kind of bittersweet because at least they
have a chance to take it for free but we had to pay to
take it.” She felt like it was ok for the juniors to take the
S.A.T their first times for free but they also could’ve given
the same opportunity to the seniors.
Fatoumata Sacko also felt disturbed by the decision on
the S.A.T’s taken at AMHS. She simply stated that it wasn’t
fair for the juniors to take one of the most important tests
at their own school after the school hours are up. “I was a
little bitter, I will admit simply because the juniors had so
many advantages. They got to take it at their school, which meant NO waking
up early on a Saturday morning and the first
time was FREE”. In her opinion, she believes
that everybody should have the same
advantages their high school years.
There were a few seniors that did not mind
the fact that juniors were able to take the test
free. Kirby Clements felt like it was a great
opportunity for the S.A.T to be supported by a
high school. He felt that it would help the
Arabia Mountain a lot. He states “I think it is a
good idea for the students to take their test at
the school because it will further AMHS by supporting S.A.T”.
After all of these responses about this particular topic, all the seniors are
happy for the juniors because they understand that the test isn’t very easy and
they needed all of the help they could get in order for them to make a good
score. They might have to take it more then once but only if they want to make
a better score.
NEWS
NEWS
By Amber Gaines
Around this time of the year students tend to stress about how they
can get their grades up. Students that are not satisfied with their grades at
the end of the year usually wait till the last minute to try and get their
grades together. Last minute studying and trying to get in extra work or
late work is very stressful. The key for maintaining a good grade is to simply
keep your grades up during the early part of the school year and when
the year comes to an end you do not have to try and cram in extra make
up work.
Students do not realize how stressful last minute make up work is on
teachers. Dr. Arnold says, “It’s almost too little too late to turn in the work,
then most times the work is weeks old, and it frustrates the teachers
because the student just wants any grade, they’re not willing to learn the
work.”
Students may procrastinate during the year and try to do it at the
last minute because they really feel they need the grade. Some students,
like me, would have that one grade that I really want to pull up before the
end of the school year. What I prefer students do is just ask for any make
up work , or do all your projects and just stay on task for the remainder of
the year. Junior Veronica Lightburn said “I’m asking my teachers for make
up work, extra credit, and retakes.” This is some techniques some students
should attempt to do to raise a low grade.
Tutorial is also a good way to raise your grade or learn more things.
Exams are very important to pass so you
can raise your grade rather it’s good or
bad. Good grades help raise your GPA so
it is important to have good grades at the
end of the year.
Set your goals and priorities for the
semester and then develop a plan for
achieving each goal.
Once you can develop a goal
make sure you can perform these goals so
you can maintain a good grade. Don't
procrastinate! Use your time wisely and
make sure the work you need to do is
done before you go do something else.
NEWS
AMHS Seniors had two weeks this year where they could break free of the
chains of the school dress code. Homecoming Week had Twin Day, Breast
Cancer Awareness Day and Spirit Day, while Senior Week consisted of Hippy
Day, Nerd vs. Jock Day, and Senior Blackout Day. The two weeks both had a
College Day and Character/Superhero Day. Which week did seniors prefer?
Senior Bernard Hood said, “I believe that Senior Week was better than
Homecoming Week because I honestly don’t even remember what we did for
Homecoming. If I can’t remember, then it must’ve not been
good.” His favorite day of Senior Week was Hero Day was his
favorite because he dressed up as “Black Jesus.”
Seniors Jessica Wray and Tyana Mack explained that
Senior Week was better because it had better days. “Superhero
day was my favorite day because I was “Captain-Save-A-
Girl/Superman,” said Jessica. “Hippy Day was the best cause I was
looking hot,” explained Tyana.
Senior Christina Williams thinks differently. She said that Homecoming
Week was better because the whole school participated, and we all had school
spirit that week. “My favorite was Character Day because
everybody wore the most unexpected outfits,” said Christina.
Niya Falls also agrees with Christina about Homecoming
Week being better than Senior Week and that her favorite day
was Character Day. She thinks it was better because we
actually had a Homecoming Dance and “it was more turnt than
Senior Week”.
While not all seniors agree about which wee was better, everyone can
agree that both weeks were a pretty fun way to celebrate their last year of high
school.
NEWS
11 Million: 1 Family March
On Wednesday, April 10 millions of undocumented adults and teens marched
in the states of Georgia, Texas, California, and Virginia. They marched to show
support to the immigration reform that will give adults a pathway to citizenship
to be in the country without having the fearing of being deported.
The rallies were held in the states capital and the largest one was in
Washington D.C. with over 8,000 people marching, Atlanta, Fresno, Los Angeles
and Houston received more than 1,000 supporters. They marched for about 4
hours chanting “Si se puede” meaning “Yes we can or It can be done”. Even
though they occurred in different states they were all in a 1 Family March, doing
it for the same reason to see a change in the United States.
Everyone who went to the march and
even those who were not able to attend
and just support the immigration reform
want to see two things: people not being
afraid of being deported and separated
from their families and a chance to have a
better life in the country so that they could
provide a better life for their families.
A few months ago the Dream Act was
passed granting teenagers a pathway to citizenship, a chance to go to college,
get their license, and receive a work permit. Now those teens are only hoping
for one thing to see their parents in the same position. They are not at risk
anymore and now they have to worry about their parents being deported.
Teenagers know how important it is for their parents to get this opportunity.
They know how hard their parents have lived and struggled and they came to
this country to try to provide a better life and more opportunities for their
children. Children of those who are not here legally are affected in ways some
people do not understand. They are in constant fear of getting a call or
someone telling them your mom or dad has been arrested. Fear that they could
avoid if the immigration reform was to be passed.
News about the immigration is still being waited on by millions. Recent news
state that it could be a go by August of this year.
By Noely Escorza
FEATURES
As a fun to end the RAMpage year, our newspaper staff thought it would
be fun to have teacher superlatives, similar to student superlatives. Our staff
went around and had all senior students take a vote and write down which
senior teacher would best fit each category.
Mr. Buffa, a senior Calculus teacher, won Best All
Around, Most Sarcastic, and Funniest. He agreed with
the superlatives he was chosen for. “I feel great about
winning these superlatives; it’s always good to win
something.” Mr. Buffa feels that students voted him
Funniest, because he’s hilarious. He thinks that he was
voted Most Sarcastic because he thinks sarcasm is
hilarious. And he feels that he was voted Best All Around
because he thinks that life on a whole is hilarious. Mr.
Buffa didn’t win any superlatives in high school. His most
memorable moments from this school year, is when Mr.
Barashango beat him in the dance contest at the pep
rally all because of his karate split move, when Mr.
Barashango wore his flame shoes, and when Mr.
Barashango was playing the djembe or big drums in the
hallway. “Some advice I have for the class of 2013 graduates is to study, study,
study! You have to able to mix and balance having fun with being studious, you
can’t do too much of either. One more thing to remember is that time goes by
really fast so try to enjoy it while you can. Y.O.L.O!!”
Mr. Canney, who teaches British Literature and AP
Literature, won superlatives, Most Likely to Fail You with a
Smile, and Gives the Hardest Tests. The superlative Mr.
Canney thinks he should have won was Most Likely to Give
You an F with a Smile. “I’m happy that the class is rigorous,
but I wouldn’t fail a kid with a smile.” He thinks he won Gives
the Hardest Tests because he does think his tests are difficult,
which is why he curves them. He thinks that he won Most
Likely to Fail You With a Smile, because he is always telling his
kids that he is not attached to his grade book. This means
that he simply records what they do, and if they get an A
then they get an A; if they get an F then they get an F. Mr.
Canney did not win any superlatives when in high school. His
most memorable moments of this year was when he was
reviewing for the AP exam with his students, because it
seemed like for a lot of students things clicked. He feels as
By Kinoy Griffith
FEATURES
though his students have worked really hard and they will do well on the AP
Exam. “For the seniors this year, I say to have fun in college, but still work hard.”
Mrs. Klein won best dressed. As a teacher at
Arabia Mountain High School, Mrs. Klein teaches
Creative Writing, British Literature, and Newspaper. She
feels she should not have won any superlatives, however
she’s thinks it’s nice that she won because she has
always had an interesting style of dressing since she was
young. “I think that my student’s chose me for Best
Dressed because they like my style, and because I have
my own sense of style.” Mrs. Klein came in second place
for best dressed in high school, so winning Best Dressed
now makes her feel vindicated, because she finally got
the respect she deserved. Her most memorable
moments of this year was when her creative writing class
wrote the Black History play, and when they did the
poetry slam together. Mrs. Klein gave great advice to the
class of 2013 when she stated, “School isn’t going to get
any easier, so don’t go to college expecting to have fun
all the time , be prepared to work hard and if you work hard you will be
successful.”
Coach Hoxie, a gym teacher and a softball and baseball coach, won
Student’s Pet. Coach Hoxie feels he should have won the one that he won. He
feels great about winning, also excited and a
little surprised that students thought of him. He
thinks that the students chose him as Student’s
Pet because he tries to help out often, and
students come to him for just about any and
everything. Coach Hoxie didn’t win any
superlatives in high school. His most memorable
moments of this year, is when the girls softball
team and the boys baseball team made the
state playoffs. And for the class of 2013 Hoxie
had an important piece of advice when he
stated “Respect your elders at all times, and try
to make the best of every situation that comes
your way.”
FEATURES
Ms. Gilliam, the school drama teacher, ironically
won Most Likely to Be On A T.V Show. She feels as though
she should have won the one that she won or Most
Sarcastic, however she is honored and finds it amusing
and funny that she was chosen by her students for this
superlative. Ms. Gilliam treated it like an award show
when she stated “I would like to thank all my students
who nominated me and find me so entertaining, and
when I get on T.V, I’ll give them a shout out.” She thinks
she was chosen for this superlative, because she is always
saying adlibs from T.V shows such as Basketball Wives,
Housewives of Atlanta, and her students often tell her that
she acts like someone from Bad Girls Club. In high school
Ms. Gilliam was chosen for Best Smile and for Goofiest.
Her most memorable moments this year, was everyday
that she’s had with her 4th period class on a whole, the
senior pep rally, and going on the senior trip. Some
advice Ms. Gilliam has for the seniors is “You are all very bright and forceful
group of students, so stay focused and look to the sky, because the future is
yours. And don’t forget that cheating will get you nowhere.”
Dr. Little, who works at Arabia Mountain
High School as an economics teacher, won Most
Likely to Be Called Mom and Most Likely to Save
the World. Dr. Little feels as though she should
have won none of the superlatives because no
one truly knows her; however she is flattered that
her students thought of her in any kind of way
positive. She thinks they chose her for Most Likely
to Be Called A Mom because she forgets that
they are not her children. And she feels she was
chosen for Most Likely to Save the World because
she often preaches like she’s in church. She
didn’t win any superlatives in high school and this
is actually her first time ever. Her most memorable
moments this year was when her class had the
Black History Month Wax Museum and when they
held the Free Market Expo in the cafeteria. “I
think my kids did a really good job and it was fun.” For advice Dr. Little had this
to say “Your word is all you have, be humble, and you will always be blessed.”
FEATURES
Mr. Barashango, like Mr. Buffa is a Calculus
teacher. Mr. Barashango won both Most Likely to
Be Called a Dad and Most Talented. Mr.
Barashango was very surprised yet honored that
his students chose him. “It feels good to know
that they look at me in that light, I try to be a role
model, and treat them with the same respect as
my own children. I also try to not necessarily mold
them, but try to encourage them to better
themselves in a positive manner.” Mr.
Barashango also felt good about winning Most
Talented. He stated “I was raised to multi-
talented. I like to have fun, and It’s always better
to be good at a lot of different things, instead of
being great at one thing.” Some of Mr.
Barashango’s talents include: Dancing, Singing,
Martial Arts, African Drumming, Teaching, Web
Design, Computer Technician, Acting, and Performing.
Ms. Gates, an AMHS business teacher, won
Most Dedicated. Ms. Gates agreed that she
should have won Most Dedicated either that or
Most Likely to Be Called A Mom. She was shocked
yet honored that the senior class would deem her
as someone being most dedicated. “I feel I was
chosen as most dedicated, because my students
know I will go above and beyond to insure that
they are successful both in and outside of the
classroom, even if I have to use my own
resources.” Ms. Gates didn’t win any superlatives
in high school however she did win homecoming
queen. Her most memorable moment this year
was winning the sweepstakes award for FBLA at
the region leadership conference, for the 2nd year
in a row. As far as advice goes Ms. Gates stated
“Make the most of the opportunities that are
presented to you. Always view your challenges as
opportunities or stepping stones to success.”
FEATURES
Arabia Mountain High School offers a magnet program, so it separate
magnet and resident valedictorians and salutatorians. For the class of 2013
Charles Akin-David, Asier Isayes, and Tyrus Wheeler were chosen for
representation for the Magnet section of AMHS.
Charles Akin-David has attended Arabia Mountain since the very
beginning and has always been known for his intellectual skills. Charles
described his journey as a “ton of work,” but knew that it felt good
accomplishing something so big. “It wasn’t a goal when I first attended high
school so I didn’t prepare myself until the beginning of my senior year,” says
Charles. He feels as though his loved ones as well as sports played a big role in
becoming valedictorian of class of 2013.
Tyrus Wheeler has attended Arabia Mountain since opening as well and is
known as being under the radar. Even though he is quiet he is heard through the
performance of his studies and has earned his current representation. Tyrus
describes the day he found out and immediately didn’t feel any emotion
because he didn’t think he would be awarded salutatorian. “After a while I
started to feel excited that I was awarded to represent the Magnet section of
my class,” says Tyrus, “but I knew that through everything I had no preparation.”
Tyrus is also part of TSA and claims that it was a motivator to stay focus
throughout the year. Congratulations to Charles and Tyrus!
Magnet Valedictorian and Salutatorian of the
Class 2013 By Mar’Kayla Bethea
FEATURES
As the school year is coming to an end, seniors are starting to make plans for
the summer. Best friends and close friends are going to colleges far away from each
other, and they want to make memories before they depart. Other seniors are planning
on doing summer programs to get them better prepared for college.
Many friends are going miles and miles away, and will
not be able to see each other as often as they are used to.
Senior Alexis Avina said, “I will try and see my friends as often as
possible during the summer, because I will be three hours away
from them.” Senior Miah Harris said, left, “I will be nine hours
away from my best friend, so we will hang out every day.”
Some seniors will be preparing
for college during the summer, by
internships and camps. Senior Jessica Wray said, “I will be
attending summer enrichment programs to help me with my
nursing career.” Senior Nick Polk will be attending a Barber
School to get a scholarship for college. He will attend Atlanta
Technical for the whole summer. He will spend the whole
summer cutting hair, for money for college.
Also students will be shopping for dorm rooms, and clothes. Some students
would like to get to know their new roommate, and get matching colors for their new
living area. Senior Kaalyah McIntosh said, “I am very excited for college! I want to have
the perfect, stylish dorm room.” Senior Ashlee Miller said, “I want a whole entire new
wardrobe for college. I would like to dress more professional.”
This is the summer before college. College is the next chapter of our lives; it is
time to finally buckle down. Seniors have to make a lot of memories with their friends
that they will be leaving behind when they go off to college.
By Chelsea Cobb
FEATURES
The most important thing that seniors are worrying about when it comes to
graduation was what comes next. Whether it is something short term like a party
or long term like getting a summer job to have money in their pockets for
college, each senior has something different planned.
When it comes to the short term goals, as soon as
graduation is done, many seniors have cookouts and
parties lined up to go to all Saturday night. Senior Tahira
Scott plans to do something all of her friends can enjoy.
“I plan on having a huge cookout,” she explains,
“with my closest friends and family.”
Some people, even though they love their
friends, want to spend their graduation day with their
family with cookouts or going out to eat to restaurants like
Maggiano’s or Olive Garden. It is a very good way to tell your
goodbyes and get some of that graduation money.
Senior Karri Thomas explains how she wants to spend her day after
officially becoming an Arabia Mountain Alumni. “– I am going to get in the car,
put on my seatbelt, and be taken somewhere by hopefully my family” she says.
When it comes to the long term plans many seniors have one thing in
mind, a summer job. “After I graduate,” explains senior Simeon McKelvey, “The
first thing I am going to do is find a summer job.” This is an excellent way to stop
relying on parents or grandparents for income and gain a sense
of responsibility because if your money if the money you are
spending, there is a good chance you will not waste it on
meaningless things.
Everyone is different and not every plan will be the same.
However, this is the last summer before college, so knowing the
Class of 2013, it will not be a boring summer with just staying in
the house all of the time. There is literally nothing and no one
holding them back. No summer projects, no summer reading.
Just you, your friends, your family, and a pocketful of money.
FEATURES
By Makia Jackson
The 2013 senior class of Arabia Mountain High school is finally
approaching graduation. The 2013 senior class is the first class to complete a full
four years at the school from incoming freshman to seniors.
As the seniors begin to enter adulthood, several teachers have words of
advice for their soon to be former students.
Photography teacher Ms. Sheldon encourages all students to stay
focused. “Life isn’t going to get any easier than it is right now” she says. You gain
more freedom as an adult which can seem to be very appealing. However
more freedom simply means you have more responsibilities. There are greater
consequences as an adult if you don’t do what is needed and expected of you
to do.
Senior advisor Ms. Andrews leaves advice to her fellow senior class “Last
year was the past, and this year is a new school year, make new decisions, new
commitments, goals and strive, fight , pull force your way into success.” She tells
all students, “Do not say I can’t, I haven’t, I won’t, say I will I must, I have no
choice but to succeed! Leaders of the herd stand up.”
Students must remember that for every action there is always a reaction.
Weather good or bad you should always expect a consequence to any
decision you make. The faculty and staff here at Arabia Mountain high school
encourage all students to stay focused and to continue to strive for excellence.
Saying Goodbye to the Class of 2013
FEATURES
Busy hallways, new rules, and new students and teachers: the freshmen had to
get adapted to all of this in their new environment for their first year of high school.
Freshman’s first year of high school can be somewhat fun but scary and nerve
wrecking. The first day of school can be scary if you don’t know anyone or have
anyone to talk to.
However, if you know some of the people you’ll be in class with or if you’re not a
shy person, you’ll feel comfortable.
“High school is very interesting and intriguing and very different from middle
school. In the beginning, I didn’t like coming to school. Then, during the year, it started
to get better and now, I don’t want to go,” says Wessleigh Holloway.
“High school is fun and nothing like middle school. At first, everyone was being
shy. As the year continued on, everyone started to get more
comfortable and talk more,” says Chelsi Bonner.
Most of the time, freshmen usually find friends to help them feel
more comfortable. “I’m a very social person. I just talked to random
people about what I like,” says Joi Benton, right.
“I was being weird and I started most of my conversations
talking about food,” says Chelsi Bonner. “I had friends from middle
school and I met people by playing sports,” says Bradford Barton.
The freshmen also agree that high school is nothing like middle
school. High school is a big change for freshmen from the teachers and
students to the rules and course work. “More
work, more independence,” says Joi Benton.
“More things and activities to do,” says Jamari Meyers.
“You get more freedom but more responsibility,” says
Bradford Benton.
Most problems that freshmen have trouble with in the
beginning of school are figuring out what classes they want to
stay in and how to get to their classes. It’s pretty easy finding
your class if you have the room number but everyone gets
confused every now and then. If they were lost, some freshmen
woud ask for help to get to their classes. “I asked for help from an upperclassman,” says
Joi Pitts, left. “One of the boys in the school walked me to all of my classes,” says Chelsi
Bonner.
Choosing classes can also be somewhat difficult. Every student usually wants
that perfect schedule where all of your classes are near each other, your classes are
interesting, and you feel comfortable. If the class, doesn’t meet their desires, the
freshmen chooses to either leave to find a better class or stick it out in the class they’re
already in.
“I went to see if I liked the classes. If I did, I stayed in there,” says Jamari Meyers.
“I worked with whatever classes I had. Most people told me what classes to
take,” says Bradford Barton.
By Javon Robair
FEATURES
Best Dressed Males Were….
Deandre Magby is
wearing a grey blazer
with a white oxford and
navy blue pants.
(Casual but Elegant)
Tommy Conley is wearing
a black tuxedo jacket
and a leopard shirt to
compliment with red
straight leg pants with
leopard loafers. (Bold
&Flashy)
Evan Peterson is wearing
a white tuxedo jacket
and black tuxedo pants.
(Classic but pleasing to
the eye)
Careton Mathews wore
a fitted tuxedo and a
bow tie. To accessorize
he added some glasses.
(GQ)
William Jet wore an
all-white tuxedo. To
switch it up he also
added a vest.
(Classic)
Jordan Scott is wearing a silver
tuxedo with a hint of orange. As you
can see his bow tie includes some
orange. (Different but Nice)
AMHS Prom 2013 Best Dressed
By Aiyana Parks
By Aiyana Park
FEATURES
Best-Dressed Couples were…..
Kavarc’lyn
Simmons wears a
pink mermaid
dress. George
Jackson
compliments her
by wearing a
grey tuxedo and
a blue oxford with
a pink tie.
(Elegant &
Exclusive)
Miah Harris went
really elegant with
a simple goddess
blue dress while
Khalil wears a grey
tuxedo. (The
Grammy’s)
Thomas creates
a different yet
bold look by
wearing a black
tuxedo jacket
with red pants.
Chaedee Doe
wears a red cut
out dress with
sparkles. (Red
Carpet)
Simeon Mckelvey
wears a grey
tuxedo and
accessorizes with
pink in order to
compliment
Chelsea Cobb who
is wearing a pink
semi-see-through
mermaid dress.
(Cinderella and
Prince)
FEATURES
1 3 2
Best Dressed Females Were…..
Taylor Montgomery Danielle Arnold Nessa Westbrook
Mariah Johnson is
wearing a feathery
floor length dress.
Kandlar Rhodes is
wearing a floral floor
length dress with a
split.
Alexis Avina is
wearing a
black sheer
corset dress
Kristi Campbell is
wearing a black
and nude classic
mermaid dress.
SPORTS
Frederick Hartville may not have any significance to you now but it will in
the future. Frederick Hartville won the National Vault Title of 2013. He also
garnered All-American honors during the NCAA Event Finals to bring the 2013
season to a close. Fred Hartville is an Arabia Mountain High School graduate.
Hartville walked the same pods we do now and he has become a nationally
acclaimed gymnast and All-American. In laments terms, Hartville has set the bar
high for future Arabia
Mountain graduates.
Hartville matched
the second highest
vault score in his
gymnast career
earning a 15.425 to
take the NCAA title. This
represents the second
straight season the
University of Illinois
gymnastics team has
dished out a national
vault champion and the third straight year the program has garnered an
individual NCAA title of any event. Hartville was the second freshman to grab
the national vault honor in the past two years and the opportunity to earn All-
American honors.
Fred Hartville is proof that you can achieve anything if you are dedicated
and put your mind to it. Arabia Mountain High School is only the beginning to
produce great people who will go into the world and accomplish great things.
Fred Hartville is only the start of the impact Rams will have on the world.
By Atiya Williamson
SPORTS
By Kinoy Griffith
As the year comes to an end, the Mighty Rams can’t help but get ready for next
year’s football season. When examining last season’s mistakes, and taking constructive
criticism from their supporters the Mighty Rams are off to a great start. The players of the
football team had a few things to say about the upcoming season.
Sophomore Theodore Eboigbe kept it simple while telling his goals, stating, “I would like
for our team to go to play-offs, however we can improve on things like blocking, and
catching, when we are out on the field. As far as goals for myself, I hope to get some offers
from a few schools, preferably UGA or any good D-1 school.”
Rising Seniors Nasiir Edwards and Kenneth Cochrum both think
that their team is a good one. They are confident that this season, the
AMHS football team will actually go to the playoffs, thus being the first
AMHS team ever to go to playoffs. Some things they feel they can
improve on are working as a team and having better communication
on the field. They both have big plans for college they would like to
earn a scholarship to any good school and play college, although
they haven’t received any offers yet, they are hopeful.
Rising Seniors Demetro Stephens and Amari Connor also feel as
though the team has a good chance of going to playoffs this season. Some things they
would like the team to try and improve on this season is team chemistry, gang tackling, and
fundamentals. Like their teammates Nasiir and Kenneth, they too have
big plans for college. Demetro is looking and hoping for a scholarship
from Auburn University, while Amari is hoping for an offer from any good
D-1 college. While they both agree that there is a lot of work that has to
be done, they both still would like to make memories and the most of
their last year.
Gregory Phillips, who is also a rising senior, had a lot to say about
his team as well. “Of course we’re a good team! In fact, we’re a great
team. But just like any great team there are some
things we could improve on, like no drop balls,
teamwork, great leadership, and good chemistry
and communication when we’re out on the field. And for goals, the
team is working on making it to the play-offs.” Gregory has high
expectations for himself, as far as college goes. He has already received
seven offers from: Old Dominion University, Western Kentucky University,
University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Georgia State University,
Appalachian State University, Mercer University, and Ball State University.
Overall Coach Beal says that he is very excited for where the team
is. He’s ecstatic about the season. He thinks they should be playing for regional
championship and the team is making a run for the state title. Some players that Coach Beal
feels everyone should look out for are Gregory Philips, Jonathan Slaton, Jonathan Jones,
Trevous Reynolds, Kayton Samuels, Demetro Stephens, Troy Stewart, Nasiir Edwards, Kenneth
Cochrum.
Kenneth Cochrum
Gregory Phillips
Coach Beal
SPORTS
By Kinoy Griffith
As the year comes to an end, the Mighty Rams can’t help but get ready for next
year’s football season. When examining last season’s mistakes, and taking constructive
criticism from their supporters the Mighty Rams are off to a great start. The players of the
football team had a few things to say about the upcoming season.
Sophomore Theodore Eboigbe kept it simple while telling his goals, stating, “I would like
for our team to go to play-offs, however we can improve on things like blocking, and
catching, when we are out on the field. As far as goals for myself, I hope to get some offers
from a few schools, preferably UGA or any good D-1 school.”
Rising Seniors Nasiir Edwards and Kenneth Cochrum both think
that their team is a good one. They are confident that this season, the
AMHS football team will actually go to the playoffs, thus being the first
AMHS team ever to go to playoffs. Some things they feel they can
improve on are working as a team and having better communication
on the field. They both have big plans for college they would like to
earn a scholarship to any good school and play college, although
they haven’t received any offers yet, they are hopeful.
Rising Seniors Demetro Stephens and Amari Connor also feel as
though the team has a good chance of going to playoffs this season. Some things they
would like the team to try and improve on this season is team chemistry, gang tackling, and
fundamentals. Like their teammates Nasiir and Kenneth, they too have
big plans for college. Demetro is looking and hoping for a scholarship
from Auburn University, while Amari is hoping for an offer from any good
D-1 college. While they both agree that there is a lot of work that has to
be done, they both still would like to make memories and the most of
their last year.
Gregory Phillips, who is also a rising senior, had a lot to say about
his team as well. “Of course we’re a good team! In fact, we’re a great
team. But just like any great team there are some
things we could improve on, like no drop balls,
teamwork, great leadership, and good chemistry
and communication when we’re out on the field. And for goals, the
team is working on making it to the play-offs.” Gregory has high
expectations for himself, as far as college goes. He has already received
seven offers from: Old Dominion University, Western Kentucky University,
University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Georgia State University,
Appalachian State University, Mercer University, and Ball State University.
Overall Coach Beal says that he is very excited for where the team
is. He’s ecstatic about the season. He thinks they should be playing for regional
championship and the team is making a run for the state title. Some players that Coach Beal
feels everyone should look out for are Gregory Philips, Jonathan Slaton, Jonathan Jones,
Trevous Reynolds, Kayton Samuels, Demetro Stephens, Troy Stewart, Nasiir Edwards, Kenneth
Cochrum.
Kenneth Cochrum
Gregory Phillips
Coach Beal
SPORTS
By Philip Reeves
Different days in gym class, the coaches allow the students, mainly
the guys to play basketball. This simple act can quickly turn into a hostile
environment. “Foul!” Jump ball!” “Oh. OK Shoot for it” These are some of
the things that the players shout at each other during game play.
The players are very serious in the game of basketball. The most
exciting players to watch are mostly seniors: Kwame Bowens, Christopher
Loth, Brian Woods, Claude Willis, Danny Ezechukwu, and Joshua Walker.
These players are elite in their personal rankings among the rest and they
always set out to prove that on the court. Kwame noted that, “Ball is life.
Why you play so hard? What is losing?” Kwame says that he is a born
winner. Brian Woods states the obvious, “I like playing basketball” he adds,
“I don’t think anybody can jump with me and is better than I am.” Brian
Woods also has a rival player, Christopher Loth; they constantly go back
and forth about who can guard the other and who is better.
Loth says. “I am the best and nobody is going to
challenge me, I can shoot from anywhere on the court.”
Claude Willis is the silent assassin, “Nobody really
expects to make it, but I am a shooter, so I shoot.
Leave me open and I cash.” Danny Ezechukwu is one
of the bigger kids in his gym class, “I like playing hard
and beating up on the competition”. Joshua Walker is
also a gym hooper and he said,” I play because I am
actually good at it. I do not like to lose because I am a
sore loser”
The gym basketball players also have
some fans. Candace Anthony is in third
period gym and she enjoys watching the
guys play,” I like watching the guys play, it is
entertaining and it is funny when they
disagree on a call”. Candace is a part of a
small group that actually watches the guys
playing basketball in gym. The “Gym
League” is an elite group that not many of
the guys that have gym can say they’re
apart of.
By Eric Murphy
As summer vacation fast approaches, so do the release dates of
several albums from well-known artists. But with so much being
released just this summer, it can be difficult to decide which albums
are actually worth buying. Here are some albums I think deserve
some attention and are definitely worth waiting for.
Odd Future rapper Earl Sweatshirt
is arguably the best rapper the well-
known hip-hop collective and even
more debatable, one of the best
lyricists of this generation. His last
Project EARL was definitely a
sample of what is expected from his
sophomore album. Known for his
multisyllabic, slow and aggressive
rhyme scheme as well as his use of
double entendres and extended
metaphors and references
demonstrated in EARL , Doris is
expected to be nothing less than
phenomenal. With features of the
likes of RZA, Pharrell and Tyler it
should impress In the guest feature
category as well. While the Single
Chum showed Earl’s more personal
Side, Whoa was a more lyrically
aggressive tune that fans will love.
Current Singles: Chum, Whoa
[EARL SWEATSHIRT- DORIS]
SUMMER 2013
After releasing several classic
electronic pop albums such as
Discovery and Human After All as
well as working on the score and
production of the Tron Legacy
soundtrack, Daft Punk is finally
ready to release an official album
after eight years. After listening to
the first single of the album Get
Lucky (feat. Pharrell), I was
immediately reminded of
Discovery’s retro approach to
electronic music that made me fall
in love with the album. Also a
reminder of their creativity is the
use of 80s style cover art for their
album.
Singles: Get Lucky
Pusha T has probably been one of
my top rappers of 2013 so far. His
most recent work Wrath Of Caine
was released to critical acclaim,
primarily for its spot on
production and heavy lyricism
that we’ve come from King Push
himself. After hearing the first
single numbers on the boards, its
immediately Clear that Pusha T
plans to outdo himself on this
project both lyrically and
instrumentally. The album also
boasts production from Don
Cannon, Kanye West and my
personal favorite Nottz as well as
features from Rick Ross, Kendrick
Lamar and Kanye West.
Singles: Numbers on the Boards
[DAFT PUNK- RANDOM ACCESS
MEMORIES]
MAY 21,2013
[PUSHA T- MY NAME IS MY
NAME]
JULY 16,2013
After the release of Cole World:
The Sideline Story, I was
disappointed. It wasn’t that the
record was terrible, rather it
wasn’t as good as his previous
projects such as Friday Night
Lights or The Warm Up and it
didn’t emanate the soul and the
hard work that made these two
projects good in the first place.
This Album represents J.Cole’s
return to his old style while mixing
in the new and so far it sounds
perfect. The production is more
pronounced and the lyrics more
impressive and thought provoking.
The Singles Miss America and
Power Trip are nothing short of
impressive and I wouldn’t be
surprised if Born Sinner turns out
to be J.Cole’s best album yet.
Singles: Power Trip, Miss America
After the release of Good Kid
MAAD city by TDE rapper
Kendrick Lamar, Oxymoron has a
lot to live up to. After releasing
two successful and well reviewed
LPs: Setbacks and Habits &
Contradictions, Schoolboy Q is
primed to release his third project.
YAY YAY was not only a good
promotional single for the album,
it also foreshadows the
combination of both his preceding
albums in terms of production,
tone and overall quality. With
production from Boi-1da, Pharrell
and The Alchemist it definitely has
the potential to match the
production of label mate Kendrick
Lamar’s recently released LP. Not
to Mention the inclusion of
features from Danny Brown, Ab-
Soul and A$AP Rocky, which
definitely shows potential in areas
where Good Kid MAAD city lacked.
Singles: YAY YAY
[SCHOOLBOY Q- OXYMORON]
SUMMER 2013
[J.COLE- BORN SINNER]
JUNE 25,2013
OPINIONS
Atiya Williamson
With every summer comes a certain excitement and expectation for
summer movie releases. These are the movies that have the potential to turn
into favorites, the essential summer blockbusters. These movies are likely the ones
that define a summer or even a whole year. However, not all movies are worth
spending your money on a ticket at the nearest theater. Below is a summer
movie preview that will hopefully give some insight on what movies are worth
your money/time and which one are just are hype for the summer.
After Earth
Summary
A crash landing leaves Kitai Raige (Jaden
Smith) and his father Cypher Raige (Will Smith)
stranded on Earth, 1,000 years after events
forced humanity's escape. With Cypher
injured, Kitai must embark on a perilous
journey to signal for help.
Release Date: 31 May 2013
Verdict: No, it looks like an okay film but to be
realistic not a lot of teens are interested in sci-fi type films. Seeing as how the film is
based mainly on a two person dialogue with its two stars, it might be kind of boring and
hard to follow. I don’t think it’s worth spending your money on to see it in theaters.
Man of Steel
Summary
A young boy learns that he has
extraordinary powers and is not of this
Earth. As he journeys to discover where he
came from and what he was sent here to
does the hero in him must emerge if he is
to save the world from annihilation.
Release Date: Release Date: 14 June 2013
OPINIONS
Verdict: Yes, this Superman movie is different from the previous films because it
introduces new characters and provides more information about Super Man’s
life before he was a hero. I know you’re thinking that the story never changes
but this film will definitely give us new characters and things to think about. I say
see it in theaters.
The Purge
Summary
Over the course of a single night, a family
will be tested to see how far they will go to
protect themselves when the vicious
outside world breaks into their home.
Release date: 7 June 2013
Verdict: Undecided. On one hand,
something makes you want to see it
because what if this could really happen like 30 years from now. On the other
hand, it seems like it could be a little predictable. If it seems worth it, spend your
money!
Let Me Explain
Summary
Filmed at a sold-out performance at Madison
Square Garden, comedian Kevin Hart delivers
material from his 2012 "Let Me Explain" concert
tour.
Release Date: 3 July 2013
Verdict: Yes, but if you’re not a Kevin Hart fan,
don’t see it. It’s really simple.
#yougonelearntoday
OPINIONS
Iron Man 3
Summary
When Tony Stark's world is torn apart by a
formidable terrorist called the Mandarin, he
starts an odyssey of rebuilding and
retribution.
Release Date: 3 May 2013
Verdict: Yes, did you have a choice? Iron
Man movies never seem to disappoint. You
can always tell if a movie is worth your money by the commercial and let’s not
lie, the commercial did not disappoint. From people who’ve already seen the
film, I’ve heard nothing but great things. It is definitely a must see this summer.
OPINIONS
Every senior at Arabia has a different story. Being someone
who has been here since the very beginning, mine is full of
different adventures. But they did not start August of 2009, they
started months before then. In 8th grade at Chapel Hill Middle
School, my high school plan consisted of going to Southwest
DeKalb High School, playing Varsity Basketball, and staying with
and due to open that following school year.
Like everyone else, I didn’t have a choice whether or not to
go to Arabia, plus the whole uniform thing was not for me. I still did
the interview, wrote the essay, ad took the test. That summer
when I found out I got accepted I was so upset because I knew I
would not see my friends. Then when 9th grade came around, I
fell in love with the school. It was unlike anything I have ever
experienced and I liked it. All of my teachers were eager to teach
us, the lunch was amazing, and to be honest, it has the cleanest
school bathrooms I have ever seen.
When 10th grade rolled around, something felt different. The
friends I had in 9th grade decided to go back to their
homeschool, the teachers I bonded with found new jobs
elsewhere. Everything was different. Then came the Annex, I’m
sorry the Academy. When the students of Arabia found out that
going there, they were very upset. I was very upset. I wasn’t upset
because of there was an Annex; I was upset because they got a
second chance. Arabia was not meant to be a regular school
where anyone and everyone can get in, there was a process and
OPINIONS
they just threw that out the window. I didn’t let my personal
opinion get in the way of my education and I still managed to
finish the year off pretty well.
My junior year was a completely different story. I got my first
C that lightly. I time I was not in class. I would not recommend any
lower classmen to do this and to just suck it up and finish the year
out strong.
Senior year was beyond words. I never thought I would
make it through Arabia all four years but I did. Calculus and I
became best friends and I believe I always put my education first,
now I am going to the school of my dreams and plan on using
everything Arabia taught me to thrive in society.
Although these four years at Arabia Mountain High School
have been a complete roller coaster ride, I made it through. I
could not do it by myself and making it through high school
without everything turning into a LifeTime movie. I am eternally
grateful for them and will not forget their friendships.
OPINIONS
My Perspective of AMHS By Javon Robair
Arabia Mountain, where the best and the brightest go, where
success is taught and achievement brought. It's been a long and
tiring but exciting and adventurous 4 years. But now I'm a senior and
it's time for me to graduate. Although it's been a great ride, there
were some bumps during this trip.
The first thing that I hit me when I first came to high school as a
freshman was the class work and homework. My first week, I had
homework in every class that lasted at least 1 hour for each
assignment. At Arabia Mountain, it's like I'm taking all AP classes even
in my electives. But even though, the teachers gave me work to take
up my entire high school life, I was being prepared for college.
Another thing that was really stressing me was the school rules.
With uniform violations, if you're shirt isn't blue enough, you are out of
uniform. We're sold hoodies and shirts but aren't allowed to wear
them in school. It seems pointless if we can buy clothes for the school
but we can’t wear them in school. Locker rules were also enforced.
We’re only allowed to go to lockers after certain period which I
found pointless and inconvenient for those who have classes that far
from each other. All of the rules at AMHS are somewhat a headache
to me but there is a positive in this. Enforcing new rules has helped
me to become more obedient and more respectful to not only the
school staff but also to my fellow schoolmates.
Here are a few tips to
help make the school
better.
●Fun activities
●More Pep rallies
●Permanent teachers
●Lenient dress code
●Smaller work load
●Better EIC topics
●Faculty vs. student
games
●A principal that stays for
more than a year
●Work study
●Hands on learning
●Class outdoors
The time has come for the first freshman class at Arabia
Mountain to graduate. The school has been through a lot of
changes and improvements since it first opened. Believe it or
not, the school changes every single year. Most senior classes
leave school with some type of gift. However, the best gift is
leaving the school with some feedback and advice on to make
it better for the future students to come.
Senior Derek Wilhite stated, “I think we should organize
more activities. They should stop worrying more about the dress
code and focus more on our education.” Derek does have a
point here being that the education is the most important factor
in our lives, and we go to school to learn.
Senior Miiauna Felix-Serrano says, “Everything needs to
be more organized. Teachers and administrators need to be on
the same page.”
Senior Nyriah Arnold agrees that the school would be
more organized if everyone was on the same page.
For senior Jimmie Shelmon, the biggest problem is the
lack of spirit days. “Students can express their individuality” on
spirit days, he explains, which makes everyone happier.
Senior Anthony Hill thinks that grade inflation is a big
problem at AMHS. “We should have less grades,” he says,
“instead of 54 grades.” He thinks reducing the amount of
grades would make classes harder and force students to
actually do their assignments.
AMHS has been through three different principals over
the past four years. We’ve had new administrators, new
teachers, and most of all, new rules. Therefore, the best gift the
class of 2013 can give the school is these helpful tips to improve
AMHS for everyone.
Opinions
By India Webb
OPINIONS
We go to a well-known public high school where our counselors are
a tremendous help and have the best interest in helping each student.
They push us, encourage us to participate and work to the best of our
ability.
After earning straight A’s second semester of 9th grade, I began to
pay less attention to my grades. I assumed that since I had a high GPA, I
could get away with not doing my work as often. Unfortunately I met a
dead end, and I began to receive F’s causing my GPA to drop. Teachers
would ask me where I wanted to go to college, I would tell them my top
choices, and they would rub their chin and then suggest the local
commuter school.
We go into high school being told as 13 and 14 year olds that if we
don't get it together now, we're going to be lifelong failures. We're set up
to believe that high school is a rigorous four years, and all students should
get "good grades", so we can get into a "good college", and be
"successful". And when we make a mistake academically, it is hard to get
back to our alleged starting position in that class. Some teachers say, “If
you don't have "good grades" you're done.”
I watched so many of my friends this year stray away from simply
applying to colleges because they didn't think they could get in. But they
cheated themselves out of simply sending in an application because they
were afraid.
Whether it is fear, or you're worried about the money, or you don't
think you're good enough, take the risk. You may or may not get rejected,
for dealing with rejections is a part of life. Be brave in your college search.
Reach for a school that might be a stretch. Don't sell yourself short,
because you could end in the college of your choice.
by Sean Thomas
OPINIONS
By Diamond Coles
At the beginning of the year my immediate answer was yes when anyone
asked if I was ready to leave. I’ve gone through 11 years of schooling—I skipped
the 6th grade—being at Arabia for the last four is a testimony within itself. I have
dealt with rude teachers, chatty girls, and disrespectful boys. I mean when you
look at it from that angle I guess you could say I am ready to get the heck out of
this joint, but am I ready to face the real world?
Think about it! The real world, the place where I will have to take care of
myself, pay my own bills, and finally break down to get a job. I will no longer be
able to hide behind my mother when I feel scared in a local area because I’ll
be miles away, heck states away. I won’t be able to just pick up something and
put on my puppy dog eyes and get it. I’ll actually have to
work and figure out what true necessities are. The real
world is terrifying! And the worst part about it is that I
won’t know if I’m ready for it until I’m out there trying to
make it.
I’ve always been a big dreamer and a smooth talker.
So all my life I’ve figured that somehow I’ll find a way to make
everything work. But now that I’m to the edge of the nest am I truly ready to fly?
How will I remember when to pay for things and how will I learn to control my
urges of random shopping sprees. Don’t get me wrong I have been taught by
mother how to live in my means but how will I even know those limits?
“Let’s face the music, you won’t be a child forever; so when the
time comes to become an adult be ready because it’s vastly approaching. “
Kind words from my grandmother, who has always taught me to be a go getter
in life.
What sucks most about growing up is that you can no longer turn
back because once you’re an adult you’ll be one for the rest of your life. Even if
I wasn’t “ready” to leave, the clock’s ticking and time is running low so I guess
regardless of my fears and anxieties I will have to just face the world on my own.
OPINIONS
For years, the last days of school have been happy moments that I’ve looked
forward to. This time, however, May is filled with a plethora of feelings – sadness,
happiness, excitement, and anxiety. Like many seniors, I have talked a lot about
moving on next year, but I can’t help but pose the question: Are we really ready
to leave Arabia?
Since August 10, 2009, when Arabia Mountain first opened its doors for classes,
we have begun to build a sense of familiarity with the school. As a class, we’ve
had both good and bad times, and although we obviously try to forget the bad
times, moving on to college could make our positive memories fade as well. Five
years from now, will I remember that really funny inside joke between me and
my friends?
Putting on our green and blue uniforms over 700 times does create a bit of a
routine, huh? It’s weird to think – and don’t get me wrong, I AM excited for it –
that next year I can wear whatever I want to class.
It’s strange to picture myself walking to class without having to weave through
a large crowd and hear an administrator urging students to move along or to fix
their uniform.
And don’t get me started on the food, guuuuuurl. People always talk about
how they’re afraid of the Freshmen 15, but honestly, I’m looking forward to
having lunch options that don’t repeat themselves every week.
The idea of these new freedoms is exciting, yet daunting. How will we really
adjust to the college routine?
What will it be like to be freshmen once again, blank
canvases with new memories to be made?
Breaking the Habit
By Karri Thomas
OPINIONS
By Aaliyah Copeland
During your senior year, the biggest problem is not deciding what classes to take or
determining real friends from fake friends. The most stressful yet rewarding issue will be
determining your future: what will you do after high school? Whether it’s a 4 year or 2 year
university, military, technical school or outright getting a job, you MUST have a plan. For me,
the only option was 4 year college.
I started applying for college in September of my senior year. My first-choice schools
application was due November 1st and I knew I had to get an early start. Before you begin
the application process, you should definitely know for sure what schools you want to apply
to, how much the application fee is and when is the deadline. Having this information readily
available will ease the process for applying for college and it won’t seem so overwhelming.
You should also keep stamps and OFFICIAL transcripts with you at all times. You won’t always
have time to go to the counseling office to put in for one. Having them always ready is a lot
more convenient.
In total I applied to six schools and was accepted to all of them. I received my first
acceptance in December from Florida A&M University. A couple of days later, I was
accepted to Auburn University. In January came Hampton University, Georgia Southern
University and Georgia State University. I was waiting on one more from my top choice and I
had to wait until February.
On February 8, I was accepted to the school of my dreams: University of Florida. I had
my mind set on going to Gainesville and being a Gator for the next four years of my life,
however, after your acceptances come the big question of how you will pay for it.
UF cost $42,000 each year, the most expensive school on my list followed by Auburn. I
knew for a fact that I didn’t want my mother to pay for me to go to school out of pocket.
Later, I received a partial scholarship from Hampton University. It wasn’t that high up on my
priority list but it was the only school that offered me money at that time in early March.
About two weeks later, I decided to attend Hampton University in Hampton, Virginia. I
chose Hampton because primarily, they were the only school to offer me an academic
scholarship. It wasn’t too far, but it wasn’t too close either. Its right on the beach and in a
nice city where its quiet and the crime rate is low and as an added plus, my mother also
went which made me eligible for alumni scholarships to cover the remaining balance of my
$28,000 tuition.
I went completely opposite of my first choice between September and March but it
happens like that. You may not end up going where you always dreamed of, but as long as
you GO, that’s all that matters! Keep and open mind and heart of perseverance and
determination and you will excel wherever you go.
OPINIONS
As the school year of 2012-2013 comes to an
end I am asking myself, “Am I really ready to
graduate?” These have been a very rocky four years
of my life. Being a student here at Arabia Mountain
has been a struggle. I didn’t take my first few years
seriously, but as I realized that college was quickly
approaching I began to take it seriously. The work
became easier, and I actually started to enjoy
learning.
I will be attending Agnes Scott College in the
fall of 2013! Although I feel prepared, I am also a tad
bit scared. I know that college is chiller than high
school, but it’s also more complex and challenging. I
understand that I will have to learn how to manage
my time with balancing work and my social life. With
all the free time that I will have as a college student, I
know that I will not have time to procrastinate.
There will be no mommy or daddy to hold my hand, but I am prepared.
When I hear the word college, the first thing that pops to my mind is a ten page
research paper. I have always been the one to use a lot of online resources,
and fear my professor saying, “You plagiarized!”
I received a full ride to Agnes Scott College, and I know that the only way
I can stay there is if I keep my scholarship. To keep my scholarship, I will have to
keep my GPA up, and abide by all the rules.
High school and college have many
similarities and differences, but I believe that I
am 100% prepared for college. I can do
anything that I put my mind to, and I know
that I can do it. With time management, and
studying, I know that I will succeed.
By Chelsea Cobb
By Theresa Ogbu
The Arabia Mountain High School Seniors were informed that more than
half the percentage of their student body is failing at least one class. The
administrators, teachers, principal, and students, like myself, were very
disappointed. This year’s failing rate increased from last year’s senior class.
On Tuesday, April 23, 2013 various seniors were called into the library to
discuss failing classes and the best ways to help them to pull up their grades. All
senior teachers had a substitute. Knowing the present situation you have to
realize that the senior teachers are trying their best to help their students.
Senior, Nikkiah Boyd, left, says “We need to
get ourselves together and we can’t
afford to leave anyone behind and that
since we all started together so we’re all
going to finish together. It’s not over till
we say it’s over.” Most seniors are highly
disappointed by the graduation rate.
Senior, Makia Jackson, right, says
“It is very disappointing that we have
such a large amount of seniors failing and
most of us will end up not even graduating.”
My advice, as a hardworking senior, to my fellow
seniors would be “For the days that we have left you should sit-up and begin
doing all the work that you need to do as well as take the initiative to go up to
your teachers and ask them to help you because they won’t come up to you
themselves to try to see if there is something that they would be able to do to
help you, you have to want to be helped.”
Opinions
OPINIONS
The Last Game ByTeresa Hope
As a senior of the Arabia Mountain Girls soccer team, it saddens me that
April 29th was our last game. I have spent four years watching my team grow as
one. We have made many improvements, and
accomplishments the year of 2013. I’ve never felt like our
team was a family until this year.
Kiera Hogan (Forward), Senior of
the girl’s team says “I have had a
wonderful experience the four years
with this team. Even though we’ve had
new coaches and players add each
year our talent hasn’t changed. I’ve
created great bonds with the people
on my team, and it makes it harder for me to move on
without them. I have known Kiera all four years of our high
school years. She is a talented soccer player and an
amazing friend, that I pray make it far in her soccer career.
Jenee’ Neal one of our senior starting midfielder players
has also, been a part of our Arabia Mountain girls soccer
legacy. ”I have had the greatest year with the 2012-2013 girls
soccer team. We have had conquered and we have lost
together. The memories that I have experienced with this
team has added to my senior year memories. I will truly miss
my team.”
Taylor Howard, starting midfielder,
is one of the seniors that have been a part of the
team for also four years. Meeting Taylor was probably
one of the best things in my life. She has added great
times to my life, and the soccer team. Taylor will be
pursuing soccer in college #BallisLife. “Team Work
makes the what? DREAM WORK. That’s the team
chant that I will carry on for years. The bond that this
team has is unbreakable. I can’t believe April 29th was
my last game as a high school player.”
As you see, as seniors we are joyful but yet sorrowful. Leaving behind high school
memories might be the hardest thing to do. Growing with this team has made
them a second family to me. I hope our legacy continues; even though we
didn’t win playoffs, were still grateful. A record of 11-4, one of the best records in
all four years. We placed 4th in the region which is great accomplishment.
OPINIONS
Getting into and out of prom
The Twelve Hotel is on a strip next to various stores so as people are
leaving from shopping I thought it was very hectic getting into the actual
area of where our prom was located. Once inside everything was
situated very nicely. Prom sponsors and volunteers directed students to
the appropriate tables so everyone was able to get into the ballroom as
soon as possible. After prom it seemed like a smooth transition since
attendees were already aware of the traffic along Atlantic Station.
Prom as a whole
Prom as a whole was very fun and from the students that
attended last year’s prom have voted Prom 2013 as the
best so far! I would have loved to see more things that
went with the theme such as masquerade masks as well
as getting better keep sakes in our prom goodie bags.
Other than that everyone looked great for the one night
as well as the AMHS staff who attended to assist as well.
Senior Walk
The senior walk was much unorganized. Many of the
students were forced to stand in uncomfortable
areas outside of the hotel until it was their turn to be
called. Some of the seniors didn’t get announced
and the wait to finish the names was very tiring.
Entertainment
Stuey Rock from Hot 107.9 was our DJ for the
night. He played a great mixture of songs
that appealed to all the students that
attended the event. Another source of
entertainment was a photo booth where
you were able to take pictures holding up
signs with your friends or date.
Decorations
I expected so much more when it
came to the decorations. It
seemed plain, but they weren’t
that bad either. I thought that
the huge masks were a good
element for the theme.
Midnight Masquerade was the theme of this
year’s prom night that was held on April 20, 2013
at the Twelve Hotel located in Atlantic Station.
Students of AMHS have been prolonging this
night for the longest and when it was here we all
tried our best to show up and show out.
OPINIONS
When beginning high school, the one thing that just about everyone looks
forward to is their senior year. Just like most people, I am excited as well. Lucky
for me, senior year is right around the corner. When the idea of senior year
comes up, there are so many things that come to mind. You think of how you
will make your last year of high school memorable. You also think of how much
stress of graduating will bring. Over all, you are ecstatic to see what your senior
year will bring.
Looking back at my junior year, it was fun over all. I made a huge change
in my school spirit. I have always liked Arabia Mountain, but I didn’t show it as
much until this year. The football and basketball games were fun because I just
enjoyed the company of my friends. I came out to as many sporting events as
possible to help support my peers as they developed their talents. I made new
friends with people I never thought I would. Next year, as a senior, I expect the
events to be even better because I expect at least half my class to turn out and
turn up!
Seniors are the most superior in the school. I can’t wait to be looked up to
by the freshmen, sophomores, and juniors. Hopefully, they will join us this year at
the school events, unlike this year where there was not a big turn out from them.
Also, I am looking forward to the senior trip and the various class activities.
Ultimately and best of all, I am most excited for our big day: Graduation.
That is the biggest reward that both high school and senior year presents. The
diploma that is handed to you during graduation is what you have worked for,
from starting school & mainly, the past 4 years in high school. Having it finally
handed to you when you finish your junior year, that’s what makes it all pay off.
Senior year will definitely be great.
By Jordan Barron
OPINIONS
Senior year is what everyone looks forward to and my senior year is quickly
approaching and I can honestly say that I am ready to graduate from Arabia
Mountain High School. Ever since my junior year started I’ve been looking
forward to May 2014. Attending Arabia for all four years as added many
opportunities and obstacles in my life. From the stress
of the work to the nagging administrator’s everyday
are the things I am excited to be leaving at Arabia
after my senior year.
The stress from the rigor of the work that I’ve
gotten all three years from attending Arabia is finally
going to end May 2014. From some nights only
getting threes of sleep to no hours of sleep is what
pushes me to never do work at Arabia because
getting up at five or six something in the morning and
not going to bed until one something the next morning should never be a
mindset of a high school and that’s what students at Arabia’s mindset is built of.
So senior year I plan to loss all stress and focus on getting into college other than
focusing on the rigor of the busy work teachers feel the need to give.
Administrators at Arabia also push me away from Arabia everyday
because administrators always on your back in high school is a major issue, they
should just teenagers be teenagers. And in August 2013 going into my senior
year I plan to have a great year and no worries of any administrators. My senior
year I plan to have no nagging administrator telling me to leave the school or
saying no when I try to walk down the hallway to do something productive at
school.
May 2014 cannot come fast enough because I’m tired of the work
teachers at Arabia give and tired of so many teachers leaving every year since
have been at Arabia. Walking into Arabia my senior year will be a brand new
faculty and will give me the eagerness to want to walk across that graduation
stage in May 2014 sooner than I would like. When you feel like it’s time to move
on to something new life then it because graduation is the only thing on my
mind and would not go away until that tassel on the cap moves from the left to
right side.
By Tiffany Daniels
OPINIONS
Freshmen year for some students is the hardest year, but for others it
is an adventure. Freshmen make mistakes and learn from them, or they
start to meet new people and become influenced to do new things.
Freshmen year is kind of hard because no matter
what the situation is, you will always be a
“Freshman” to the upper classmen.
My freshmen year was very fun and
adventurous, but I had a hard time adjusting to
the upper classmen because I knew that I
couldn’t fit in because of our different grade
levels. Even through it was hard I remained the
same person I was when I first started 9th grade.
I made stupid decisions during my 9th grade
year but I also learned from it. I believe that if
any freshmen want to do something my best
advice is to just do it.
Freshmen Reil Johnson said, “It was an
experience coming to high school it was a really
big change coming from middle school to high school.”
Sophomore Diamond Williams said, “It was ok, but nobody liked
freshmen, though.”
Senior Mar’ Kayla Bethea said ‘It was so fun. We didn’t have a lot of
rules back then since we were just opening as a new high school.”
Everyone’s freshmen year is a different experience, but looking
back, I wish I would have made my freshman year a fun and educational
one. Instead my year was filled with drama and fights. If I could do my
freshmen year all over again, I would, and I would be wiser about certain
situations.
I am now a junior, and who would have thought that I would make
it this far? I went to the Arabia Mountain Annex and because of where I
went I was judged when I came here to Arabia, and I had a reputation
for being a bad student. Your freshmen year is like a first impression. When
you first start out in high school make sure that you leave a good
impression with teachers and other administrators. I advise every up and
coming freshmen or rising sophomore to just simply remain themselves
and don’t follow any crowds.
Freshman year feels like it was just yesterday, but now it’s gone. To
any freshmen, just remember to make your year a fantastic year you will
always remember.
By Amber Gaines
OPINIONS
By Makia Jackson
As the 2013-2013 school year comes to an end, it is important
for incoming freshman to get advice on how to a successful student
throughout their high school career. High school isn’t as easy as
people make it seem. It takes a lot of hard work and dedication to
be one of the students to walk across the stage may of senior year.
Senior Nikkiyah Boyd, left, advises
all incoming freshman to “stay
focused, turn in all work on time and to
participate in as many clubs and
organizations as possible”. She also
states that studying is to having a
successful high school career.
Another senior Theresa Ogbu,
right, gives many tips for incoming freshman as well. She advises all
students not to procrastinate when it comes to school and the work
needed to be completed. She also encourages students to ask
question when they don’t understand certain concepts. Another tip
is to turn in all assignments on time and to follow all directions when
given. She really encourages students to not follow the wrong
crowd. Certain people can have a major impact and can influence
you in a good or bad way.
All incoming freshmen need to keep school work and extra-
curricular activities first. Relationships and friendships come and go
but your education will determine your transaction from high school
to the real world.
OPINIONS
The Ticonderoga is
called, “The
World’s BEST
PENCIL”.
All throughout high school I have found myself using all
kinds of pencils. I have found countless number of pencils.
Since college is approaching quickly, I am sure I will continue to
use them. There are many different types of pencils:
mechanical, wooden, “clicky” and flexible, but which
company makes the best pencil?
The top two companies I chose two investigate are
Ticonderoga and Paper mate. They both, in
my opinion, are the top two companies in
making pencils. They differ in areas like the
type of pencil but that is necessary to keep
the business going.
Dixon Ticonderoga is a company that
was started in the 19th century. The
company makes pencils that are available
in different grades. Number one is extra soft,
number 2 is Soft, Two and a half is medium
and three and four are hard and extra hard.
I have personally used numbers one, two
and four. The number two pencil is the
pencil more commonly used throughout
school life. I love the eraser on these pencils. The eraser
completely erases all smudges and anything you write on your
paper. The pencil itself glides on your paper and makes the
ugliest of handwriting look legible.
The Papermate Company was founded in 1940 under a
different name,” The Frawley Pen Company, then Papermate
launched in 1949. Papermate also have the same “grades” as
Dixon, but they also have an American and Classic pencil. I
have used both of these pencils; I really cannot tell the
difference between the two. I really think that Papermate
should work on their erasers. The Papermate erasers come with
some type of white coating on them. That white coating is
By Philip Reeves
OPINIONS
These are the “Twity”
Mechanical pencils by
Papermate.
what makes the eraser smudge and not
erase very well. Erasing with Papermate
pencils is basically preparing to rip your
paper because of the force you have to
use to get it all off.
Papermate also makes some of the
best mechanical pencils. I know I use a
mechanical pencil when I do not want to
get stabbed by the lead of a wooden
one. With a mechanical pencil, I can put
the lead away and save myself some
hurt. I have used about two or three of
Papermates mechanical pencils. The
yellow twistable are probably at the
bottom of that list. When I write with
those, the lead seems a bit too shaky and then it doesn’t have
the best hold. The “clicky” mechanical pencils are the best.
The lead is sturdy and the hold is perfect. The pencils have the
grip on them which just adds to the great features of the
pencil.
The wooden Dixon Ticonderoga is a
reliable pencil for when you need to get
rid of the costly errors in college and the
one that I think that every senior should
have a pack of when they head off for
college.
The mechanical Papermate are a
close second with its smooth design and
hold. Let’s not forget safety.
These are the
mechanical pencils
that are at the top of
my list for college. I
recommend that
every student gets a
pack.
By Taneishia Watson-Parks
There are different ways to get over the person you like/love. It is hard to get over
someone you once cared for because you started to develop feelings for them and in your
mind you believe you will never feel that way ever again. People find it very hard to not think
about that person and it sometimes distance themselves from friends and family. It’s ok to feel
that way, it’s a part of life. I believe anybody can get over their crush only if they really want to.
There are different ways in my opinion to help get over
someone. The first thing to do is to realize that you have to reach
a point of wanting to get over your ex. At first it will hurt so much
that you won't feel able to even start to get over this person, and
you may even harbor a deep belief that you two will eventually
get back together. You will feel as if it was your entire fault and
that you could’ve done something different from preventing it
from happening. This internal hoping and avoidance may last for
quite a while but eventually you will realize that you actually don't
want to get back with this person.
After realizing that you need to move past it you should
cut off all types of communication connects with your ex. At first it
will be hard and you won’t understand why you should do it, but
it's the only thing that works. You probably feel like you're losing
the best friend you ever had, the only person who truly understood you. It might hurt at first, but it
will get better. You cannot be friends while you attempt to get over each other because you will
never find yourself moving on.
It is ok to be emotional because that was someone you
wish of being with forever. Be open and honest about how
you're feeling. Don't pretend, for yourself or others, that you're
okay if you're not. Also realize that you are allowed to be okay.
You do not have to feel sad all the time, or even at all. Different
people react differently to breakups, and you're entitled to feel
emotionless as much as overly emotional. Talk to people instead
of just holding it in and being moody, down or anxious. Other
people can support you if they actually know what is going on.
Talking to friends or family members would hap out a lot
because they once been through the horrible break-up and
they can give you some advice on how to stay strong through
the whole situation. Remember that there are other people who
care. Even if it doesn't always feel that way, there are. There are
people around you who understand, and will help.
It will take a couple of day’s maybe even weeks before you will be able to get back on
the horse and feel a good way about yourself but once you come to that be sure to Do
anything you can to make yourself feel desirable and confident again. Get a haircut or add
new highlights. Go to the gym. Buy a new outfit. Dress up and dance in front of your mirror to
club music.
Remember all the times your ex told you that you are the handsomest/most beautiful
person in the universe and convince yourself that it is indeed true, and that someone else will
appreciate you the way he/she once did. After you have went through all of these stages. You
will be able to learn from the break-up and move on. You might even learn things about yourself
you never even knew about and eventually you will find someone that will treat you better then
the person before.
OPINIONS
Ask a RAM
My best friend and I are totally close! We used to like each other but became best friends before we told each other. Everyone says we should go out, but I don’t want to ruin our friendship. So should we go out next year or not??
Since you already have a close friendship, you should be able to talk to each other about this. Talk to your friend about trying a relationship, but be honest with each other about how things will change once you begin dating. Keep in mind the differences between friendships and relationships, and be aware that by taking this risk, you may lose the friendship. However, you may also gain a great relationship!
There's a guy I like, but every time I try to talk to him I can't seem to ever remember his name. When I do remember his name, I have nothing to talk about. What should I do?
If you can’t remember his name, is he really that memorable? Are you just getting really nervous around him? If you like him, the first thing you should do is memorize his name. Then, you should look for things you have in common so you will have plenty to talk about.
So I really find this guy attractive, but we have nothing in common. Once before, he's asked me to go somewhere with him, and it sounded more than just being flirty. I want that to happen again, but I don't know how to get it to happen again.
It sounds like you turned him down when he asked you out. You may have hurt his feelings. If you are really interested in him, why don’t you ask him out? You know he kind of likes you, so take a risk!
One of my really good friends is graduating this year. How do I show him that I'll miss him and how do I ask him to keep in touch with me without it being awkward?
It can be hard to stand out in a school where everyone wears the same uniform. It may not be that he went crazy about your body, but that it was the first time he noticed your individuality. That being said, your concern is a serious one. Try talking to him one on one. Pay attention to whether he’s actually listening to you or just checking you out.
I like a guy, but he's never noticed me before. Then one day, I wore jeans and a tank top and he literally went CRAZY! I don't want him to like me for my body shape, so what should I do?
If you’re already friends with him, it shouldn’t be that awkward. Write your number in his yearbook, and make sure you are his friend on Facebook or that you follow him on Twitter, Instagram, or Tumblr. Then, give a few weeks to get used to college before sending him a message casually mentioning that you are visiting his college on a campus tour.
Do you have a question for the RAMpage? Go to http://www.dekalb.k12.ga.us/arabiamtnhs/newspaper.html to submit your question!
A.Philip Reeves B.Teresa Hope C.Kinoy Griffith D.Tiffany Daniels
E.Mrs. Klein F.Diamond Coles G.Chelsea Cobb H.Taliyah Knight
I. Noely Escorza J.Javon Robair K.Sean Thomas L. Aiyana Parks
M.Taneishia Watson-Parks N.Mar’Kayla Bethea O.Nikkiah Boyd
P.Jordan Barron Q.Karri Thomas R.Makia Jackson
S.India Webb
1
2
3
13
5
15
17
16
11
10
12
4
18
19
6
9
8
7
14
1.
E
2.
B
3.
M
4.
S
5.
A
6.
I
7.
H
8.
D
9.
G
10.
J
11.
P
12.
L
13.
C
14.
F
15.
N
16.
K
17.
Q
18.
O
19.
R
