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April 9, 1997 South Mecklenburg High School 8900 Park Road Charlotte, North Carolina, 28210 Volume :XXIV

Ragsdale nan1ed new band director


By Andrew Buchert
On February 10 Mr. David crease the number of students the brain which are seldom oth­
Ragsdale assumed the position enrolled in the band program erwise used," said Ragsdale.
of Band Director. He replaced next year. "I want to see the Mr. Ragsdale is very im­
Mr. Grossek, who directed band double in size," he said. pressed with South. "I was
South's bands since 1986. The Marching Band is a vol­ pleasantly surprised and appre­
Mr. Ragsdale conducts the untary band which is, "the most ciative of the positive reactions
Concert Band, consisting mostly visible public display of South," by the students and faculty. Dr.
of freshmen, the Symphonic said Ragsdale. "I want it to be­ Knox, the faculty, and the stu­
Band, an intermediate band con­ come something that the stu­ dents have been incredibly sup­
sisting of upperclassmen, the dents are proud to be in and portive. The change couldn't
Wind Ensemble, which plays something the school respects, have gone more smoothly," he
the most difficult music and is by increasing its size, its qual­ said
by audition only, and the Jazz ity, and its spirit." "Mr. Grossek will be a hard act
Band, a new addition to South's Mr. Ragsdale encourages stu­ to follow," said Ragsdale. "He
band program this year. He also dents to come out and support molded the band into a respect­
teaches AP Music Theory. the Jazz Band. "It is a very ac­ able program. Our goal now is
Mr. Ragsdale earned his Bach­ complished band, thanks to Mr. to move on and ever upward."
elors degree in Music Education Grossek," said Ragsdale. Ragsdale is taking the Wind
from Appalachian State Univer­ To fulfill his goal of doubling Ensemble to state competition
sity. He began working to­ the number of students in the on March 20 in Grade 6 music, 1997 Reverse Homecoming King Tripp Ingle.

HomecoDling was a
wards his Masters in music per­ band program, Mr. Ragsdale in­ the highest category of high
formance and wind conducting vites anyone who previously school band music. At the be­
at the University of Florida. He played in a band and is inter­ ginning of May, several students
directed a church choir for three
years while in college, and di­
ested in starting again to come
see him. He stresses the proven
fact that those who participate
from each of the bands will be
going to Orlando, Florida to per­
form.
Tripp
rected the University of Florida By Kevin Ballantine
Symphonic Band during his ten­ in arts programs score higher on "I want people to feel wel­ mistress of ceremonies, intro­
Tripp Ingle was crowned as
ure there. standardized tests such as the come in the band," said Mr. the 1997 Reverse Homecoming duced the Reverse Homecom­
Although he is impressed SAT's than those who don't. Ragsdale. "I want for myself King during the half-time of the ing Court. The festivities con­
with the overall quality of "Music is more complex than and the students in band to have basketball game against East cluded with the Gospel Choir 's
South's band p rogram, people would like to think, and fun, and what better way to do Mecklenburg. The first runner­ rendition of "I Believe I Can Fly"
_oiiii!!,_..,.R�a�;t�sr::d
le's main _goal is to in- it trains and exercises parts of that than to lay music." up was Tommy�Hin ha d bY- R. Kelly.
____

The other members of the


aurie}}O, Bailes nontinated
the second runner-up was Karl
Walker. Reverse Homecoming Court
The ceremony began with were Alexander Sarkozi,

. ·.·for Phil Hughston Award Nikki Harris performing a clas­


sical ballet selection in center
Lamont Joyner, T.J. Vinson, Jeff
Watson, Bobby Patterson, Andre
By Karen Whichard court. Ms. Cynthia Shepard, Ross, and Rosha Hooper.

Governn1ent proposes
The Phil Hughston Award is
:one of the most prestigious
awards given annually to high
school athletes in the Charlotte
area. Phil Hughston, a football
new driving policy
player for Garinger High School By Katie Payerlie
nearly twenty-five years ago, North Carolina is considering der this program, new drivers
was an outstanding student and legislation aimed at curbing the would have to pass through two
leader. He was killed by inju­ dangers posed by inexperienced levels before receiving their full
ries sustained in a football game drivers. Statistics accumulated provisional license.
against South Meek. Hughston by the NC Division of Motor Ve­ The first level is a limited
lives on through this prestigious hicles show that 28% of licensed learner's permit for drivers age
honor, given to a male and fe­ sixteen year olds are involved in 15 and older. To pass this level,
male recipient each year based a car crash annually. About sev­ one must complete one year of
on scholarship, leadership, com­ enty people die every year in violation-free driving with adult
munity service, and athletic par­ North Carolina as a result of supervision. The second level
ticipation. these crashes. Although matu­ is a limited provisional license
Mike Mauriello and Amy rity factors into these statistics, which allows the teen to drive
Bailes are South's two nominees the primary reason for the high unsupervised between 5 a.m.
this year. Mike, who is ranked accident rate among young and 9 p.m and to and from work
ninth in the class of 1997, is a drivers is lack of experience. after 9 p.m. The final level is
Congratulations to Amy Balles and Michael Mauriello.
track star. He has been a mem­ As it stands, anyone who the full driver's license.
ber of the varsity track and cross of the cross country squad his captain and basketball captain passes the test can get a driver's If a driver begins the GDL pro­
country team for four years, and junior year. her senior year. During the sum­ license the day they turn sixteen. cess at age 15, he can get a full
received All Conference honors Amy is also a successful stu­ mer she competes on an elite North Carolina is looking to provisional license at age 16 and
in cross country for three of dent athlete, as well as an officer area softball team, the Charlotte change that procedure. Some a half.
those years and track for one in BETA Club and DECA She Lightning, which has won nu­ members of Congress have de­ Support for this program is
season. He was the first person has been a member of the var­ merous state titles and has been cided to sponsor a bill that widespread. In a recent tele­
from South ever to win a Re­ sity softball team since her runner-up in the World Series. failed in 1993, which would en­ phone survey, 74 percent of par­
gional Cross Country Champi­ sophomore year, a member of Both nominees are outstanding act a Graduated Driver Licens­ ticipants believe that North
onship, a feat he accomplished the varsity basketball team for students and leaders as well as ing (GDL) system that has al­ Carolina should change to a
this year. He was also captain two years, the varsity volleyball athletes. ready passed in two states. Un- GDL.

0 Billy talks
Tech about John
Gets New Boy...and
Prom... other stuff
Start

Page 6 Pages 4-5


The Sabres ' B lade
April9, 1997 !Page 21
Don't blame gangsta Their Take
rap for problems
By Branna Calloway
Scott Syfert's article entitled
On It
against women, and homicide."
Snoop 101: Welcome to Michael Eric Gangsta rap is a musical art
Teens Demand
Dyson's World, which ran in the form that gets its stories from Challenge
February 19 edition of The Sa­ the black community, usually
In a new study by the Public
bres' Blade, gives readers the directed at the young black au­
Agenda Foundation, seven out
wrong image of gangsta rap. The dience as fact and as a warning.
of ten teenage students say
article's subject is UNC Chapel Syfert also said that if "the val­
they would pay more attention
Hill communications professor, ues of Milton and Yeats were
and learn more if they were
Michael Eric Dyson's speech at taught instead of Snoop Doggy
challenged more.
commencement on Dec. 15. Dogg, we can expect our chil­
The survey of 1,300 students
Syfert and Dyson have some dren to escape degradation."

Beyond black and white differing views in this article. I


agree with Dyson on one point
Well, if telling our children the
truth about their environment
found more than 90.9 percent
want more rigor and relevance
in the hallowed basics of read­
By Karen Whichard he made, but I totally disagree is going to degrade them, then
ing, writing, and math-and
"The locker room is one ofthefew such as Affirmative Action with Syfert's comments. I'm all for it.
today's fourth basic, computer
places in America where black and would cease to cause so much Dyson made a good point when One thing is important when
literacy...
white come together and deal with turmoil. he described gangsta rap as "a dealing with something so con­
Students spoke about how
each other on a daily basis. I think First, we are candid. Rarely a celebration of the freedom of lyri­ troversial; remember that
little work they do to earn ac­
the rest of society could learn some­ day goes by without a question cal creativity, rhetorical dexterity gangsta rap is a form of enter­
ceptable grades and conse­
thing on race relations by using such as, "Why do white people and racial signification." On the tainment and the interpretation
quent ly, how boring and
athletes as an example." -Dennis do this, or why is it that black other hand, Syfert described it as of gangsta rap causes problems,
meaningless their classes
Rodman people...?" Honesty is said to "the hard-core rap mucic that cel­ not the lyrics or the lifestyles of
seem.
Racism. It's probably the fast­ be the best policy, and by re­ ebrates profanity, violence the performers.
Now, to be realistic, if higher
est way to incite passion from maining so we have learned to standards were to become the

Letter to the Editor:


any individual. As we near the accentuate our differences in or­ rule, these same kids who say
end of the twentieth century, der to come together. they're hungering for rigor
having fulfilled W.E.B. DuBois' Second, we always integrate. would howl in protest at first.
prophecy that race relations Before each game we pray and After all they are teenagers,
would be the paramount issue
of the century, attitudes in our
hold hands, alternating black
and white. Our bench is a gi­
First Tupac, now perfectly capable of simulta­
neously making adult de­

Biggie Sntalls. Who


community make it appear as if ant "oreo," and whenever we mands and childish excuses.
race relations will be the key is­ do anything, we attempt to in­ But the study confirms that
sue beyond the year 2000 as tegrate. Our city seems poised they recognize something im­
well.
Many individuals have tried
to end busing and other means
of forced integration, and there­
will be next? portant: They are being short­
changed. They know their
various ways to promote racial fore our generation must take "Biggie Smalls? Dead? Yeah between Tupac's death and schools are letting them down
harmony. Seminars are held steps so that we do not kill what right!" Biggie's. Is there a connec- by letting them get by.
throughout the Charlotte area; has already been accomplished. These were the first words tion? I don't know. In fact,
yet, volatile situations continue Our situation is not always that came out of my mouth I'm not sure I know anything The Philadelphia Inquirer
to arise. A solution is needed, easy. W henever we go out, when a friend of mine called to anymore.
and the answer can be found in people stare, whet er we are in deliver the news early Sunday I was sure Tupac would live What is English�
the attitudes of high school ath­ South Park Mall or Midtown afternoon. Strangely enough, through his second war with
letes in the locker room. Square. Racist songs are played these were the first thoughts gunshots, but he (suppos­ So what exactly is Standard
There is something special in restaurants we fre­ that went through my head edly)didn't. I neverimagined English? Perhaps it is what­
about a high school basketball quent, with management seven months ago at a school that Biggie would be killed, ever the situation calls for.
team. They spend a majority of nonchalantly proclaiming, "We football game. Shocked mur- although he was probably the When speaking with people
the school year together, includ­ didn't write the song," or, "we murs of "Tupac died ... " ran most likely target. So what who are extremely important
ing Christmas and Thanksgiv­ don't censor our music." Ironi­ through the crowd. I reassured happens next? or when interviewing for a job,
ing. As a member of the South cally, though not surprisingly, a tearful girl that there was no I remember hearing adults one needs to be able to sound
Meek Lady Sabres, I know our these attitudes are often found way that Tupac could have say that Tupac's death was no fairly cultured. If one spoke
team is a family unit, black and in people who do not consider died. I had been listening to surprise because he was, af­ Ebonies during a job interview,
white. themselves racist. one of his COs a couple of hours ter all, a GANGSTA rapper. I the chance of getting the job
We eat together, pray together, Our team is very successful, before. It wasn't possible. But suppose Biggie's death will be would immediately decrease.
live together and dream to­ and the main ingredient is our then I suppose that anything is treated the same way in the But does it matter an inordi­
gether - activities which rarely love for one another. If people possible. minds of many adults. But to nate amount to Queen Eliza­
cross racial boundaries. Above in the city of Charlotte could Sure, there was talk in the us in the so-called "Rap com­ beth II how I speak to my
all, we love each other. It has learn to love those who are dif­ J;lews, in Vibe magazine, and in munity" it means a lot more. friends?
not been easy, though, by any ferent, recurring problems the parking lot after the game To me, being young, being Ebonies isn't a language any­
stretch of the imagination. If could be solved. After all, those Black, being a rap music lover, more than the drawl of a Texan
that there would be retaliation
citizens of our community could who work together achieve the and claiming no loyalty to or the sharp staccato of a
for Tupac's death, but who
work as we have, many issues most they possibly can. East nor West, Biggie's death Bostonian. It is a dialect, yes,
could have guessed that this
raises many issues: the in­ but not a language unto itself.
would happen? The Notorious
Our primary goal is commu­
B.I.G.? Sure, he was probably creasing death rate of young
nication. If I can understand
Public Enemy #1 on Tupac's list, Black men, the close-minded
who I am talking to and they
but dead? way many adults will deal
can understand me, why
Biggie was to Bad Boy Records with this situation, where rap
should it matter to anyone else
what Tupac was to DeathRow music is headed, and the
how I speak? Unless we all
and now, just like that, they're question on the outcome of
Editor-in-Chief want to go back to Britain to
both gone. I can already hear the East Coast-West Coast
learn to speak "Propah En­
Cliff Mauriello the speculations from the con- riot.
glish," then we should let
versations in school tomorrow: Now that the two heads of
Sports Editor Business Manaeer "I bet Suge organized that the infamous rivalry are
people speak how they want
Karen Whichard Warren Foster to among their peers even if
from jail.." gone, will this be the end of
their dialect isn't considered
"Maybe Faith killed him be- the violence? Will the play­
Layout Editor Adviser cause she really loved Tupac..." ers on both sides see that no
cultured. After all guys, ain't
this America?
Andrew Buchert Mrs. Jeny Beny "Man, I bet you Biggie faked more violence is needed after
his death too..." two have already been killed?
The East Mecklenburg Eagle
Photoerapher Kevin Ballantine But the biggest rumor that Or will this retaliation con­
will be flying will be: "Tupac tinue back and forth, one
Reporters
Walter Boyle Nicole Ewing
has got to be alive!" Biggies's
death can't help but fuel the ru-
death being the result of an­
other that had been the re­
Correction:
Branna Calloway Mike Klein mor that Tupac is alive some- sult of yet another? The senior mystery in last
where like his alias Machiavelli, The feeling that most fills month's issue was incor­
Lauren Coggins Keith Mason
lying low while he plots re- my mind and my heart is sad­ rectly identified by the Edi­
Jennifer Collins Katie Payerle venge. My stepdad's idea was ness because I do realize that tor-in-Chief as Dionya Fair.
that "The 7 Day Theory" part I will never again walk into It should have been identi­
The Sabres' Blade staff will accept any and all letters, articles,
editorials, etc., but cannot guarantee p ublication. We reserve of Tupac's Machiavelli CD was Sam Goody and buy a CD fied as Laticia Walker. The
the right, however, to edit any materia1 for obscenity, misinfor­ perhaps synonomous with the baring the name of the Nota­ Sabres' Blade Staff apologizes
mation, or other necesssary corrections. All opinions expressed seven months that have elapsed rious B.!. G. for any embarrassment or in­
in The Sabres' Blade are those of the individual writers and not Editor's Note: The author is a member of the junior class at South convenience for either Ms.
the staff as a whole. If you have any questions, please feel free Mecklenburg and wishes to remain anonymous. Fair or Ms. Walker.
to come by B-10.
The Sabres ' B lade
April9, 1997 Features \Page 31
Is the cloning
Faces in the Crowd of humans
ethical; should
Crystal Clear it be legal?
By Jennifer Collins
Sports? Clubs? Study? driving her black Neon. This
Choosing among these areas is fun car represents Crystal's
never a dilemma for junior, upbeat per sonality. Her
Crystal Muse. Academics favorite character is Minnie
always comes first. She is Mouse, which has become her
currently enrolled in AG and AP nickname from many friends.
classes. She also finds time to Crystal hopes to attend
be the vice-president of Peaceful Florida A&M and major in
Sabres, along with being the Business Management or
President and founder of the Communications, but for now
Sisters With Vision club. she is simply concentrating on
In addition to her scholastic making it through her junior
activities, Crystal is an active year. She commented,
member of her church youth "Knowing that it will be over
group and Habitat for soon is what keeps me going. "God created us to be our own
Humanity. Also, it helps to know that individuals."
Favorite Color: Navy blue Her favorite things to do are everyone must go through it."
acting and dancing. Her greatest Being active is more than a Reshika Hudson, 12th
Pet Peeve: Phony People achievement was starring in an hobby for Muse; it's a way of
Role Model: Mother Off-Broadway play while living life. Not only is she well­
in New York, her home town. rounded, but she has a strong
Birthday: May 6 Crystal moved to the Charlotte grasp on what she expects out
area from Queens. of her future. We can all learn a
Nickname: Minnie Mouse
W hen not dancing or lesson about life from Crystal;
Best Feeling: Making people laugh studying, Crystal can be seen live it to enjoy it.

Jovial Jimmy
By Nicole Ewing
If you are looking for a guy active member of his church
who is funny, Jimmy Kimball is Youth Group.
your man. He can always make After a hard day at school, one "The cloning of humans
you laugh. Not only does he can see Jimmy driving his should be tested, but not
have a great personality, but he canary yellow '81 Pontiac to abused."
can handle many extra­ work. He recently start ed
curricular activities and still working at The Finish Line, and Josh Hughes, 9th
keep a 4.5 GPA. he also helps out at the YMCA,
Jimmy is secretary of where he keeps score for the
sophomore council and is active basketball games.
in Octagon, Latin Club, Latin On the weekends he enjoys
Honor Society, Peaceful Sabres, spending time with his friends
Debate, and DECA. He was one and going to parties. He loves
of ten national qualifiers in a to play basketball in his spare
state-wide DECA competition time.
who will compete in Anaheim. After high school, Jimmy
Birthday: February 7, 1981 "Jimmy is a dependable, hard plans to attend Duke
working young man, well-liked University, become a lawyer,
Favorite Artist: Phish
by his friends, teachers and and get rich.
Preferred Food: Pizza classmates," said Jimmy's Jimmy represents the
marketing teacher, Mr. Schultz. sophomore class well. H e
In CD Player: 2Pac Jimmy is also very involved in manages to b a l a n c e the "An individual's personality
Favorite Movie: Who Framed Roger organizations around the schoolwork, clubs, and friends, cannot be duplicated."
community. He is in City at and he still comes out with a
Rabbit Peace, Young Life, and is an smile. Amin Mehrizi, lOth .·

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ntertainment
Perfect pair makes an Odd Couple
By Lauren Coggins roommate Florence, a whining hypochondriac. had ever worked together on stage.
"I think it's a...nerve spasm!" They were absolutely hilarious together, and Gordon Franklin and Matthew Jordan also
I was almost doubled over with laugh- with the added talent of the supporting cast­ made a great team as Manolo and Jesus, two
"Hey. I'm trying to pass tbe potatoes! • • • ter and completely unable to breathe. Matthew Jordan, Gordon Fr anklin, Katie Spanish brothers new to America. They are
Remember. my forearms are just as useless
However, my condition was no different Payerle, Michelle Cashio, Nicole Meade and not new to the art of dating, though. Both
as yoursl"
from that of any other member of the au- Sarah Markusen-they kept audiences laughing bring flowers and candy for their dates, and
dience. Clarissa Shepard and Jennifer through the entire show. Olive's biting sarcasm both make sure that Florence knows to put
Lyon were able to keep a rather large au- was a perfect complement to Florence's frantic the flowers in water instead of the candy.
dience laughing continuously for over moose calls, (which carne at the onset of the They know how to show their sensitive sides
two hours with their rendition of Neil nerve spasm) and the well-timed snide remarks too, especially when Florence tearfully tells
Simon's The Odd Couple, (Female Version.) of Sylvie and Micky, which were extremely them about her soon-to-be ex-husband.
They provided perfect chemistry for this funny. The Odd Couple was the best show I have
drama of mismatched personalities. "Face it Florence, we're just a rotten pair." ever seen in the South Meek auditorium, and
South's production was an adaptation Florence and Olive may not have made a good the wonderful acting and non-stop humor
of the classic play and film with Jack team, but Lyon and Shepard were perfect to­ made for a great evening. Congratulations
Lemmon and Walter Matthau. Lyon por- gether. It seemed from their chemistry, that they to the Drama Department, the Director Ms.
trayed Olive, an avid sports fan who is had worked together many times before. In­ Guzman, and the cast of The Odd Couple for
nowhere near as neat and orderly as her stead, The Odd Couple marked the first time they putting on such a successful show.

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The Empire Strikes Back Star Wars
By Walter Boyle movie were minimal at best; it is the story line and the great had a hard act to follow-Star
Star Wars: The Empire Strikes there were a few seconds of acting by Mark Hamill, Carrie Wars: A New Hope-and did quite
Back, the sequel to Star Wars: A city scape and not much else. Fisher, and Harrison Ford that poorly. The quality of The Empire
New Hope was re-released and When Star Wars: A New Hope does the trick. Strikes Back was good but it just
touched up after 17 years. Now was re-released it had over But beyond that, The Empire couldn't stand up to Star Wars: A
with Special Edition added to four more minutes of new foot­ Strikes Back will be one of the New Hope. It needed more to it.
the title, a few new surprises, age, scenes, and characters, best movies of 1997; the plot is They make it out to be a big deal
and crystal clarity like never be­ plus a few new surprises. intriguing and the characters but it just isn't. Although The
fore, the second in the series and What is lacking from The Em­ are detailed and in-depth. The Empire Strikes Back's content was
the fifth chapter in the epic saga pire Strikes Back is what the space fights are choreographed exceptional, and the story line was
has struck the big screen. The companies are basing their ad beautifully, and the explosions incredible this "Special Edition"
only problem is that the Empire campaigns on. They don't need are enough to make any pyro­ just did not live up to the name
really did not strike back, or at to add Special Edition to the maniac happy. There is some­ that it was given. It was a good
least Lucas Films did not. Al­ title for people to go see it. thing for everyone: incredible idea to re-release The Empire
though The Empire Strikes Back People young and old would fight scenes with lightsabers, Strikes Back; most of the people
was as powerful as ever, there have flocked to the theater deadly shoot-outs and some today have never seen it on the big
was much lacking that would even if it was dubbed in Span­ awful truths revealed. screen. It is one of those movies
Gbost newspapers make it a Special Edition. ish. "Special Edition" is not But The Empire Strikes Back that you put on your "must see"
The additions made to this what makes this movie great; list.
rta...
By Nicole Ewing
WRFX: Billy Says...
Q. How did you get started? we've just gotten to the point where everything we
Q. How do you know if an idea is going to be funny or
A.I didn't get interested in being on the radio until I do is goofy and embarrassing.
not?
was in high school. I did a lot of drawing because I A. You don't know really. We've worked together fo�
thought I was going to be a commercial artist, and I Q. Do you have any advice for anyone who wants to
so long that if everybody else thinks it's funny, you
always had the radio on. One day I just started go into the radio business?
usually can be pretty confident that it's a good idea.
thinking, well, that sounds like a fun job; maybe I'll A. The thing about radio is you have to want to do it
Usually the things that come right off the top of your
try that. I went to the National School of Broadcast­ for free. It's a tough business; there's an awful lot of
head are the things people think are funniest.
ing in Atlanta for basic training to get my license. people involved in it. There are very few people who
Later on, someone called me up and told me that he get really successful at it. The best way to start out is
Q. Where do you come up with your characters?
found a guy to do the morning show and that we to go to a radio station and be willing to do just
A. A lot of them are just little bits and pieces of things
would go well together. Johnny and I did a few about anything to get your foot in the door.
that you've heard over the years. Some are based on
tapes and then we were on the air. real people that would make good characters, plus little
Q.Are you happy with where your show has gone?
pieces of yourself in there too, of course.
Q. What's your favorite part of your job? A. Yeah, I have to get up awful early, but the syndica­
d tion has been a real interesting thing because you are
A.Well, it's pretty good work because it's not that Q. Why do you like working with John Boy?
hard to do. I don't mean to say that there is no skill able to go into different cities and places without
A. Well, there is no idea that's too goofy. He's willing to
in it at all, but I like to get up and sit around and having to move around.
try just about anything, which is kind of fun.
drink coffee and read the newspaper, and I found a
job where I can get paid to do that. Q. Do you ever get nervous?
Q. What's your funniest time on the air?
A. Oh Yeah! Sometimes I'll still get nervous and not
A. Oh man, we've been doing this so long,_ there's so
Q. What is your least favorite part of your job? know what I'm doing. It's harder for me to do a
many. I remember a time, not exactly how it happened,
A. Getting up at 5:15 every morning and carrying show in front of a big group of people; that's always
Rayford was giving the news report and for some
on a semi-intelligent conversation. In fact, when I a little weirder because on the air no one ever sees
reason he leaned on the chair just right, and the chair
quit doing it, that'll probably be why. I just get tired you.
leaned over. All of us were laughing for like five
of having to get up so early. If it wasn't for the minutes because it was so ridiculous. I guess it was one
schedule, I would have no complaints at all. Q. Anything else?
of those things where you had to be there, but it would
A. It's something that's a little bit different every day
be hard to top that.
Q. Where do you get your show ideas? and something that you really have to have a hunger
A. Well, you know, you watch TV and read the for because it can be tough when you're getting
Q. What's your most embarrassing time on air?
newspaper and you bounce ideas off of that, eventu­ started. But once you break through, there is nothing
A. There have been so many over the years, and it's
ally someone will come up with something that like it. I enjoy it a lot.
hard to really be embarrassed about anything. I guess
could work.

Bittersweet Humor ® RadioShack�


Humor is subjective. Different things are funny to different people. But on rare occa­
sions, everyone agrees that some jokes just aren't funny. In fact, a certain candy company
has consistently come up with bad jokes. You've heard them-- the Laffy Taffy jokes that
You'ue got questions. We'ue got answers.
couldn't be worse no matter how much intoxicating substances their writers usee[ Ana
they couldn't be any better no matter how many intoxicating substances the readers used.
After much research, not only did we find that the grape ones taste better than the ba­
nana, we also determined the Top Five Corniest Laffy Taffy jokes...

5. Q. What do you get when you cross a potato with an onion?


A. A potato with watery eyes.

Your Favorites
4. Q.Why did the basketball player bring a duck to the game?
A. He wanted to shoot a fowl shot.
3. Q. Why is the letter 'A' like a flower?
A. Because a bee follows it.
S.M.H.S. Poll: Funniest Movies
2. Q. How does a farmer count his cows?
A. With a cowculator.
1. Q. Why did the cucumber blush?
A. He saw the salad dressing.

'fl\li>-T If WE. 0\E. A�D


IT TUR�S OJ\ GOO \�
A. 15\G Clt/CI:EN .".:>
wur-.1 MN?.'

S.M.H.S. Poll: Funniest Sitcoms


With America's new obsession with low-fat, low calorie and a new taste for the unconventional, it's no
wonder that chicken has become an integral part of our society. Simple phrases such as "it tastes like chicken"
have become national jokes. The phrase, "You are a chicken" does not imply that the speaker believes that the
listener is a feathered creature that can't fly, but rather a scardy-cat. (Cats are another article.) And while the
joke, "Guess what? Chicken Butt!" is annoying and sophomoric, it is yet another example of America's obses­
sion with chickens. Think about it, we Play Chicken, Do the Chicken Dance, Eat mor Chikin, have Chicken
fights, play with rubber chickens, call girls Chicks (offending some), feel like Chicken tonight, and ponder the
question "Which came first, the Chicken or the egg?" among other things. But one of the most mind boggling
chicken questions that has been asked for generations has finally been answered. Here are the projected celeb­
rity answers to the age old question: Why did the Chicken cross the road?
Dan Quayle: It sawe a potatoe.
Machiavelli: So that its subjects would view it with admiration, for who among them has the strength to
contend with such a paragon of avian virtue?
Aristotle: To actualize its potential.
Any statistician: Sometimes it crosses, sometimes it doesn't. On average, it's actually in the middle of the
road.
...
Any mathematician: Actually, it hasn't crossed the road yet, but it is approaching the other side asymptoti­ ...__

cally over time. 11.5%


The Sabres ' B lade
April9, 1997 I Page 61

at's What's
In Out

I
Compiled and Designed by Branna Calloway and Nicole Ewing
•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••




J.
• •
Glamorous, Sleek, Simple, •
), J . • Poofy, Ruffles, Flashy,
Long, Sexy, Chic, Shiny,
. � .
- • Ballgowns, Clunky Heels,

Solid, Light Colors, Fitting, • • Overly Priced
• •
Strappy heels • •
• •
• •
• •

'f? � : Founders Hall April 26, 1997 :


Dining •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
Prom
in Style I Went to a Party, Mom Agenda
Prom time is here again, which When the big day arrives on
I went to a partyMom There is blood all around me, Tell sister and brother not to
means that all of the glamor­ I remember what you said Mom cry April 26, what will you be do­
You told me not to drink,Mom And most of it is mine Tell daddy to be brave ing? Chances are that if you're
ous couples will be strutting
So I drank soda instead I hear the paramedic say,Mom And when I get to heaven,
their stuff out to eat at the most a a girl you'll:
I'll die in a very short time Mom
-- elegant restaurants in town. I felt really good inside,Mom Write "Daddy's Girl" on my Get up early
The way you said I would I'm lying here dying,Mom grave Eat nutritiously
Just in case you can't think of
I didn't drink and drive, Mom I wish you could get here soon
Shower
anywhere that would fit the Though others said I should How come this happened to me, Someone should have told
prom scene, we've thought of a Mom? him,Mom Talk with friends
I know I did the right thing, My life burst like a balloon Not to drink and drive Talk your Dad out of
couple ofplaces that might help If they would have taken the
Mom
time,Mom escorting you
you decide on where to take I know you're always right I just wanted to tell you,Mom
your date on this memorable Now the party is over I swear I didn't drink I would still be alive Nail Appointment
As everyone drives out of sight It was the others,Mom
night: Hair Appointment

Melting Pot
The others didn't think Because when in need--you
As I hop into my car,Mom were always there Makeup

Bistro 100 I know I'd get home in one piece He probably didn't know where My breath is getting shorter, Put on hose
Because of the way you raised he was going,Mom Mom

Lamplighter
Put on Dress
me Mom He was probably at the same I'm becoming very scared
So responsible and sweet party as mine Please don't cry for me,Mom Eagerly await date

Rafferty's the only difference is,Mom

Harpers
I started to drive away,Mom He drank and I will die I have one more question,
Mom
And if you're a guy you'll:
I pulled onto the road

Manzettis The other car didn't see me,


Mom
Why do people drink,Mom?
It can ruin your life
Before I say goodbye
I didn't drink and drive, Mom
Get up early

Carver's Creek
Eat anything
It hit me like a toad I'm feeling sharp pains now, so why am I to die?
Shower
Mom
Silver Cricket As I lay here on the pavement, Pains just like a knife This is the end,Mom Go to work

Meadow View
Mom I wish I could look you in the
Shower
I hear the policeman say The guy who hit me is walk­ eye

Pewter Rose The other guy was drunk,Mom ing,Mom And say these final words to Put on tux
And now I'm the one who has And I don't think that's fair you,Mom Brush hair
I love you and good-bye
to pay I'm lying here dying,Mom
While all he can do is stare Anonymous
� Pick up date
The Sabres' B lade
April9, 1996 S ports I Page 71
Congratulations Gaston n8.1Iled Coach of the Year Congratulations to the
following Sabres who
By Jennifer Collins
to UNC coach
"Working together works!" finished with a record of 23-4, were selected to a South­
Smith Anyone who has ever attended
a South Meek women's basket­
breaking the school mark for
wins.
estern 4A All-Conferenc
teamfor their respective
On ball game would recognize this
chant. Coach Troy G aston
Gaston believes that a team is
only as strong as its assistant
sport.
Kristy Michue
Victory 8 77 originated the motto, and his
players have followed it all sea­
coaches. Accordingly, he gives
much credit to assistant coaches Mike Mauriello
son. Their teamwork was a Vince Armstrong, Leslie Adams,

ACC large part of their success. , ; and Rashede Taylor. He be­


Katy Dillard


In only his second year as l "lieves that they played a crucial Gerry Hoskins
Cinderella South Mecklenburg's head
coach, Troy Gaston was named
r role in the season's success.
- - Jus tin Boudrie

-
And, of course, Gaston salutes
By Cliff Mauriello Southwestern 4A Coach of the · his players, the Southwestern Brian Appling
N. C. State turned another Year for his dedication to an 4A champions.
losing season into a post-season Morris S anders
incredibly successful team. Basketball coach Troy Gaston "You have to have horses to
opportunity. Under new head The recipient of this award is Sabres went undefeated in con­ make things happen. This Gus Doulaveris
coach H e r b Sendeck, t h e selected by all of the conference ference play and won the con­ award is a tribute to the kids
Wolfpack became the first eight
Steve Gowdy -
coaches, with each coach allot­ ference tournament for the who play for South, rather than
seed to make the championship ted one vote. Gaston's Lady fourth straight year. The team me," said Gaston. John Moffitt
game of the Atlantic Coast Con­
Jovanca McCullough
ference Tournament, where
they lost to Dean Smith's North Sabre Soccer ready to repeat
By Cliff Mauriello
Terrisha Hardin
Carolina Tar Heels. Over the
course of the regular season, The Lady Sabre soccer team Two Sabres could have record pionship.
Chi uita Thomas
has made winning a tradition by
Baseball in
N.C. State won only a handful breaking seasons for South "I think our success depends
of games, but two were against claiming the last two South­ Mecklenburg. Charlotte Moore, on how the younger players de­
Top Ten opponents Clemson western 4A conference titles and 1996 Regional Player of the Year, velop," said Coach Lynch.
and Wake Forest. In the ACC
Tournament, they defeated an­
other Top Ten foe by upsetting
by advancing to the state semi­
finals last season. The senior
class, one of the most talented
leads the Sabres in scoring and
could break the school record for
career goals. Coggins, a two
The most ominous obstacle in
the way of another Southwest­
em 4A title is arch rival Provi­
!l!r�!w%�ng
B
The crack of the bats can be
number one seed Duke. State's in school history, wants to keep time All-Regional midfielder, dence. The Panthers return a heard once again, signaling the
tournament success landed the the momentum going this sea­ leads the Sabres in assists and talented squad from last year's arrival of spring and baseball
Wolfpack in the National Invi­ son and establish a winning tra­ could break the school record in team. Myers Park is also con­ season at South Meek. This year
tational Tournament and was dition in their underclassmen career assists. sidered a challenger for the con­ marks the beginning of Coach
labeled the Cinderella story of teammates. Seniors Nicole Van Every, Julie ference title. Bagwell's tenure as head coach,
the year. The man who deserves The Sabres started on the right Roberts, and Ginnie Hench lead Last year the Sabres finished and the team is favored to win
all the credit, however, was foot with an 11-1 victory over a spirited defensive attack that 19-1-2, losing to state champions the conference by the Charlotte
robbed of proper recognition. Olympic and a 7-1 win against allowed only three goals in the Greensboro Grimsley in the Observer.
Herb Sendeck should have F reedom. The Sabres tied first three games. semi-finals of the state tourna­
South is loaded with talent this
been named A.C.C. Coach of the Parkwood 1 -1 o n L auren Three freshmen accompany ment. South was ranked fourth
season, and should improve on
Year, but instead Duke's Coach Coggins' penalty kick to remain the seniors in their quest for a overall in the state to end the
their 10-14 record last season.
K. received the award. Sendeck unbeaten in the preseason. third straight conference cham- 1996 season. Junior pitcher Chris Jones is be­
/
Soltoalt �gin s-new era with new-coach
was not �ven among _!__he t� ing recruited by major colleges,
three vote getters. Dean Smith -and catcher Jason Kirk nas a t­
and Maryland's Gary Williams ready signed with UI:'JCC.
finished in second and third By Karen Whichard Adam Freeman, possibly one of
place respectively. Coach K.'s The state of North Carolina is the best second basemen in the
effort to take the Blue Devils entering its second year of county, is joined by first
from last place in the conference fastpitch softball, and South baseman Bill Weatherford and
standings to first place in two Meek appears to be one step third baseman Rick Gromlovits
years is remarkable, but Duke closer to making a successful to build a solid infield. Outfield­
was unable to perform in the transition. As a slowpitch team ers Parrish Mcintyre and Matt
post season tournament. the Sabres finished in the top Holowecky are also All-Confer­
Dean Smith turned an 0-3 eight in the state, but struggled ence caliber players.
team into an NCAA East Re­ last year during fastpitch's in­ In the Southwestern 4A, South
gional number one seed, but augural season. will have to contend with Myers
Smith has had more number South returns all but two play­ Park and Independence for the
one seeds than any other coach ers from last year's squad, and league crown. Providence is
in conference history. Gary sophomore pitcher Kristy Davis also a strong favorite to win,
Williams also had a successful has improved tremendously Sophomore pitcher Kristy Davis delivers the ball to homeplate. with four conference coaches se­
rebuilding campaign with the from last season. All-Confer- fense. If the Sabres keep their and her knowledge of the game lecting them to finish first.
ence center fielder Christine errors down, they will do well. is providing the team with more
Terrapins, but he had better
players than the N.C. State Klem graduated, but the addi- The biggest change this season confidence about fastpitch soft­ Tennis team is
Wolfpack had.
Sendeck on the other hand,
tion of Harding transfer Jacquie
DuBois has filled what had ap-
for the Sabres is new head coach
Leslie Adams. She played col-
ball. When she was asked about
the season, she said, "The team ready to step
took a program that had been peared to be a hole in the de- legiate softball for Florida State, will do well."
into spotlight
in the bottom half of the ACC
since the early 90's and sent it
Track team hitting its stride By Jennifer Collins
to the NIT. And he did it with a By Nicole Ewing The men's tennis team is mak­
nucleus of five overachieving The women's track team is full distance team had only three ing a racket! This season should
players who got hot at the end of talent for the '97 season. members, but this year eight be a successful one, and they
of the season. Duke and Mary­ They have many returning se­ girls complete the squad. Coach want to be noticed. The team
land finished the regular season niors along with several tal­ Dave said, "The team has great does not have a lot of newcom­
in a slump. The Blue Devils lost ented freshmen. Last season potential and a lot of new faces. ers, so experience should guide
three of their last four games the team did not finish as well I would like to see all of them the team to success.
entering the N C A A tourna­ in the conference as they would try their hardest to get their state Chris Prentice is expected to
ment, and the Terrapins went have liked, but they anticipate qualifying times." lead the Sabres in conference
from second place in the ACC The competition is going to be competition. He plays both
standings to fifth. The Wolfpack "Th e c o mp e ti ti o n difficult, with Providence and singles and doubles for the
team. Prentice commented
won eight of their last nine
games, an outstanding testa­
will b e tough, but we West Charlotte the main confer­
ence contenders. "The compe­ about the team, "We have a
ment of Sendeck's coaching. will strive to do our tition will be tough, but we will strong team this year. If we can
When one takes a look at the best. " . strive to do our best," said cap­ beat Myers Park and Provi­
situations surrounding each Gta Clements tain Gia Clements. dence, then we'll be at the top
coach, Sendeck's accomplish­ The men's team is also doing of our conference and ready for
ment outshined Coach K.'s, doing better this season. "We well. The relay teams are very states." In order to beat Provi­
Smith's, and Williams's. He have a much more balanced strong, and the 4 X 800, 4 X 100, dence and Myers Park ,South
should have been recognized team than we have had in the and the 4 X 200 teams have al­ will need outstanding perfor­
for his achievement, but instead past. We have a lot of sprint­ ready qualified for regionals. mances out of every player.
he was slighted. It's a shame. ers, distance runners, and many The relay teams should do well Coach Weaver said, "If we
The Wolfpack will win a lot of
basketball games in the future
under Sendeck, but his most im­
people doing field events which
will definitely help us," said
Coach Gaston.
in conference competition also.
The distance runners are ca­
pable of challenging for the con­
play hard, play smart, and
worry more about our personal
performance than the outcome
..
portant work will go unrecog­ The distance program looks ference title, too. They are led of winning or losing, we'll be a
nized. very promising. Last year the by Mike and Cliff Mauriello. good team."
The Sabres ' B lade
April9, 1997 I Page 8 �
New AutoTech curriculum
By Andrew Buchert
South's n e w Automotive and receives two credits. "I van donated by Chrysler in
Technology instructor, Mr. would like to encourage stu­ 1995, a 1988 Chevrolet Silverado
Pressley, has initiated many dents who are interested in pickup truck donated by Gen­
changes to the program's cur­ working on cars for a career and eral Motors in 1989, and the
riculum since arriving last fall. who are interested in learning front portion of a 1993 Buick
The preliminary step was be­ how to troubleshoot their own LeSabre that was a project of
.
coming certified by the National cars to enroll," said Pressley. Central Piedmont Community \.

Automotive Technicians Educa­ Another change to the auto­ College that did not work out. '
tion F oundation (NAT E F ) , motive program is the new tech­ "We hope to get it running, and \
which enables students t o re­ nology. "Almost everything in it doesn't take up a whole lot of
ceive both high school and col­ the modem automobile is con­ room," said Pressley. A 1996
lege credit in automotive nected to and regulated by a Dodge Neon is in the process of
courses. "It is not a place where computer," said Pressley. "You being sent to South from
we take a screwdriver, a pair of might consider Auto Tech if you Chrysler.
pliers, and a hammer and go to like hands-on and playing with For those auto students inter­
it anymore," said Mr. Pressley. technology, such as computers." ested in a career in mechanics,
Auto Tech students practice on donated automobiles.
Auto Tech teaches the skills The auto building is much Chrysler and GM both have pro­
necessary for a career in the au­ cleaner this year, as are me­ grams through CPCC. A stu­ areas as diagnosing a problem wants to make the class enjoy­
tomotive industry. "Deciding chanic garages and car dent must complete the re­ in a set amount of time. "In the able. "I want to get it where you
careers is a big decision," said dealerships today. "The shop is quired CPCC classes, and will job market there is a lot of com­ enjoy coming to Auto Tech no
Pressley, "and I am happy to clean enough where you don't graduate with a guaranteed full­ petition, and this prepares you matter what you plan to do for
give students a realistic idea of get dirty just walking in the time job. for that time in your life," said a career," he said. "I am very
automotive technology." door," said Mr. Pressley. Next year auto mechanics will Pressley. pleased with the progress we
Pressley teaches Auto Tech I, Auto Tech students practice be part of a new club, Vocational Auto Tech is for those stu- have made so far to the pro­
which is an introduction to au­ the skills they learn in each unit Industrial Club of America dents interested in a career, gram. I enjoy this [teaching]
tomotive technology, and Auto on modern cars. South cur­ (V ICA). Students compete whether it be engineering or more than anything I have ever
Tech II, which meets everyday rently has a 1993 Dodge Cara- against other schools in such mechanics, but Pressley also done in my life."

DECA sending ten to


Anaheim competition
By Mike Klein
The 1997 North Carolina De­ petition in Anaheim, California
velopment Conference, held in late April. They are Amy
annually to select the state's fin­ Bailes, Sean Busher, Tiffany
est DECA students for national Dolph, Amy Hickel, Chris
competition was held at the Keen, Jimmy Kimball, Mike
Benton Convention Center in Klein, Alicia Speller, Kathy van
downtown Winston-Salem Brederode, and Allison Wynne.
March 16-18. Students at this This is the second consecutive
convention competed to qualify year South has had ten of its stu­
for the National Career Devel­ dents qualify, and the national
opment Conference by finishing competition in Anaheim is sure
as an overall series winner or to be a success. South Meek
runn er up. DECA also received two awards
In addition to the many ac­ as a collective whole. They were
complishments of DECA stu­ honored for having ten percent
dents in testing and role play growth and for being the second
situations, South had ten mem­ largest chapter in North Caro­
bers invited to the national com- lina.

Sabre Recognition
-Marian Diperna and Michael Sanders participated in the
North Carolina Music Educators Association Honors Band.
Marian, a flutist, and Michael, a hom player, were selected to
play after a very tough audition.
-Kim Carroll was crowned Miss Pineville last month.
-The following students were chosen to participate in this
year's All-State Choir:
Leslie Whitten, Carrie Elam, Doug Blumenthal, Josh Acuff,
Michael Page, Matt Meyer, Lisa Gerald, Marja Franklin, and
Lauren Laganis.
-The following will participate in the All-County Choir:
Revco's Glamorous G uarantee: If you buy any cosmetic product at Revco Adrian Damiano, Alexis Dealy, Corey Jania, Corey Robinson,
and you're not completely satisfied, for any reason, bring it back and we'll Marisa Spicer, Karen Whichard, Julie Leonard, Shelly Moore,
give you a fu ll refund. Jill Pope, Tamara Shaw, Laura Williams, Kevin Jeffries, David
r.- - - - - - - - - - - - - - , r.- - - - - - - - - - - - - - , Walton, Shawn Millington, and Brent Townsend.

/0
15 0OFF /0
200OFF
-South's chapter of FHA/ HERO won first place at the Re­
gional Competition on March 6 at CPCC. Kelly McLaughlin
won first place in Creative Home Interiors, Kalonda Simpson
won first place in Focus on Children, and Melissa Hollar won
When you purchase any 2 When you purchase any 3 first place in food service.
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