To start off, most people will try to get back into shape so they can have the body that they always wanted in life. Most people may want to get into shape just so they can impress a person that they have feelings for who didn’t like their body shape before.  I believe that if you really want to get into shape, do it for yourself not for someone else who probably doesn’t even know that you exist in their own little world. Also if you actually live up to getting back into shape, maybe you can do it to prove others wrong who said you would not be able to do it.

Another resolution some may begin to try is eating healthier foods. Some do this because they don’t like or appreciate what they’re eating and may think it’s bad for them and ruining their body. Others may eat healthy because they’re fed up with all the sweets that they have been eating and come to realize that it’s time to put a stop to it. In my opinion most people eat healthy because they see their friends and family members doing it, and they don’t want to be left out of the crowd.

The last resolution that I’m going to talk about his helping others. One reason people may want to help others is because they feel like giving back to those who helped them in life, or those who taught them that life isn’t just a game that you can start over and over again because you made a mistake. Also they may help others because they might actually enjoy it, and it makes them feel alive inside and out. When you have a resolution to help someone in need, maybe you should actually stick to it and don’t put it on hold because one of your friends told you to.

Most people may actually live up to their resolutions to make them a better r. Maybe you have a resolution that you want to start to make yourself better or the world a better place. I believe that if you stay true to yourself then just maybe you can do it and feel great about it.

Stevenson Bassy is an 8th grade student at our very own Howard Middle School.  He has played every sport so far this year and is looking at a very successful future.  Stevenson was voted to be most likely to succeed by our students.  As of right now Steve helps Ms.Lee’s son Trelawney S. with basketball skills at school and on his own time.  He also helps local kids in his neighborhood with sports and homework.  I won’t say any names, but Steve also helps students at Howard with their Algebra homework.  I won’t lie… Steve helps me with basketball sometimes, too, like how I shoot, when to release the ball, etc.  Steve is the perfect student to win this award. He helps everybody in every kind of way.

The Humanitarian Award is given to people who help their community in every way possible.  Last year, the award was given to Billy Flowers, also an 8th grader at Howard.  The award has been given out across our wonderful country. It’s always nice to know that one of our students have been given this award. That goes to show you if one of our students can win it then anybody can.  All you have to do is try to help your community in any kind of way.  The little stuff matters folks–everybody must help to make our country a better place to live in. This award shows that Steve is one of those people that help our community. Orlando is known as “The City Beautiful,” so let’s try to make it stay like that. Everyone needs to help. Let’s stay BEAUTIFUL !

The lockout couldn’t end at a better time, with Christmas just right around the corner.  While I am talking about Christmas let me tell you, there are going to be some outstanding games on Christmas day, including some of the best players in the league.  Some match ups will include the Miami Heat vs the Dallas Mavericks in a NBA finals rematch. Then you have Derrick Rose and the young Bulls vs Kobe and the wise old Lakers. For our hometown Magic and Dwight Howard takes on Kevin the “Durantula” Durant with his young and electrifying OKC Thunder.

With the lockout being done and over, the free agency has opened up and trade talks have already begun.  Some players have been traded already, like, Lamar Odom- the Lakers 6th man.  He was traded to the Dallas Mavericks, the champions of the 2011 season. There have been rumors of Dwight Howard our hometown hero being traded to either the New Jersey Nets, the LA Lakers, or the 2011 champs Dallas Mavericks. Speaking of the Mavericks, their center who was a big part of their defense, Tyson Chandler, was a free agent and signed with he New York Knicks to join Carmelo Anthony and Amar’e Stoudemire.

David West, who was a New Orleans Hornet last season was recently signed to a 2 year deal worth 20 million dollars  with the Indiana Pacers.  The Hornets franchise player Chris Paul is on the move to LA, but to the Lakers. He’s going to play with the Clippers and young breakout star Blake Griffin.

The NBA has been on blast since the lockout was unlocked. People getting traded from left to right. Free agents getting signed like nothing. It’s crazy. I would assume our generation is new to a lockout.  Not our parents or grandparents since there have been lockouts before, but this one is full of drama. Just think of Dwight leaving us… Well, let’s just hope there won’t be another lockout for a long while.

About her health problems: when my sister was born doctors saw no problems health wise but what they did not know is that she had two muscular VSD’s in her heart. She went home but two months later she was rushed to Tampa General Hospital to have open heart surgery. They had to put a pulmonary band on her pulmonary artery to slow down the blood flow to her heart until she was strong enough to patch it up. At the age of one she once again had open heart surgery to patch them up. The VSD’s she was born with still effect her daily life like she cannot have things that have caffeine in it, she can’t lift weights, and etc. She also has to get a heart monitor to see how she’s doing every six months. About three years ago my sister was thirteen years old and had serious migraines constantly everyday so she had to go see someone about this two times a week for a whole year to get them to go away and luckily it worked.

My sister attends Boone High the home of the Braves. Part of her hobbies include dancing. She is a Bravett, a name for a dancer on the team. They do a show every halftime and before the game. She also dances in several classes like ballet, hip hop, and many others. She has a recital every year at Bob Car theater. She also participates in runs and all kinds of things to help raise money and to show that she cares for the kids who are sick all across the world.

Many people often take shoes for granted. There are children around the world who walk barefoot and can’t afford shoes or are either really torn or even do not have the money to buy new ones. Walking around barefoot can cause many infections such as swelling to the foot or podoconiosis. Blakes idea is not only to give shoes to those in need but to also understand why wearing shoes is so important.Blake Mycoskie is very inspirational about making tomorrow better. The name Toms is derived from the word “tomorrow”. Blake is made of such great character and spirit . He lives on a boat in Los Angeles. His favorite quote is by Ghandi…”Be the change you wish to see in the world.”
Movember is an annual event where men come together in November and grow their mustaches out. The Movember Foundation charity is to raise funds and awareness for men with health issues. The men are not to shave for a month during November. Toms is involved with this charity they even have designed shoes established for the Movember Foundation.

Imagining the kids without shoes around the world,is like living with misery. A pair of shoes can change someone’s entire attitude or even the way they look at life. Smiling from ear to ear and shouting with exultancy. I can just imagine the look on their faces thanks to Toms support. These children whose days are fulfilled with darkness. I know they appreciate what is given, hopefully in just a matter of time their days will enlighten.This makes me sit back and think about life, what it has offered me. I am grateful for what I am and have. There should always be something to be thankful for simple as life itself, tomorrow isn’t promised to anybody.
Toms has an event consisting of going barefoot for a day. Its an event to spread awareness on how giving a child a pair of shoes can change their life ! Reflecting on my life, me spending a day without shoes would be horrible ! Imagine trying to visit different places without shoes . Basically there’s no where that you’re allowed to visit . There’s almost always a sign that says “shirts and shoes required”. The scarce stares as your walking by fault-finding people is an ugly situation. Being so used to shoes and going a day without can be really sensitive to our feet. The fact that we aren’t adapted to the feeling. Besides visiting places with clothing requirements and

being surrounded by critical people , I’d love to spread my awareness for children in need across the world.
A few years back , I remember my Great Grandma gave me a blanket ! I have since kept it and treated it with care. I always take it with me when I travel. The nice warm fur snug against me fulfills me with joy ! I was grateful for my blanket and will cherish it forever because I know my Great Grandma is becoming of age. I’m glad I have ”Blanky,” it’s something to have of her when she’s gone. Sometimes I am well-acknowledged of how blessed I am to have caring people surround me. When I want something new , I try not to be bratty. When I go school shopping every year I go through my closet to find what I no longer want anymore and I’ll donate it to those in need ! I am a person that understands people’s situation and if not I try not to be so critical because you never know what people go through. If someone is in need of a hand, I am a free hand always willing to give someone comfort.
“You have to give, in order to receive.” Is something I’ve always been told and believe are words to live by.

In the surprising twist this week Oklahoma St. is ranked 3 and the LSU Tigers are ranked #1 with the Alabama Crimson Tide in 2nd place.  The top 25 teams are actually not a disappointment like they were last year with only four teams finishing undefeated.  If you’re in the top 25 you are in there for a reason, which is, to avoid having a disappointing season!  As of now the top 25 is a top 24 because the last top teams have the same record so therefore they are both ranked 24. I know you’re probably thinking if they’re in the top 25 they are having a good season. Although to be in the top 25 some teams are not deserving I think. I know your probably thinking if they are in the top 25 they would be doing good, but to be in the top 25 you must be beating teams that you should beat not getting upset every week (Georgia) !

Well, let’s talk about this intense Heisman race. According to Espn.com, the top 5 contenders as of now are 1.Andrew Luck, QB 2.Russell Wilson, QB 3. Trent Richardson, RB 4. Kellen Moore, QB 5. Robert Griffin III, QB. All of these players are having electrifying seasons. Here are some stats on our top 5 Heisman contenders.

Andrew Luck: Passing yards: 1,888, 20 passing touchdowns, and a quarterback rating of 180.0

Russell Wilson: Passing yards: 1,780, has thrown 16 touchdowns, and only threw 13 interceptions.

Trent Richardson: has run for 989 rushing yards, has scored a total of 17 touchdowns catching and rushing, and he averages about 6.6 yards per carry.

Kellen Moore: he has thrown for 2010 passing yards, he’s thrown 24 touchdowns, he has completed 76.3% of his passes.

Blake Griffin III:  He has thrown for 1950 yards, thrown for 22 touchdown yards, and ran for an unbelievable amount for a quarterback with about 295 yards.

The teams that look like they will be playing for the championship game are LSU and Oklahoma. As of now LSU is ranked #1  and Oklahoma is ranked #3. I know most of you are thinking, why would Oklahoma be playing in the championship if they’re ranked #3 instead of 2. Well Alabama is ranked #2; but they are in the same conference as LSU.  They are both in the Southern Eastern Conference (SEC).  When the play against each other for the championship game LSU is projected to win the SEC championship.   I think that LSU will come out on top and beat the odds and win the SEC and the national championship game.  Some spectators have said they do not have what it takes to win it all because they are too young to win.

ESPN has contributed to this story.

I can’t stand homework and can’t work efficiently, what can I do to make it easier?

Shawn said: First, get all your work together and get your music, food, drinks, etc. Then get comfortable and isolate yourself from all distractions. Once that is done, do all the work you know for sure and if there’s any work you don’t know ask your classmates or your parent/guardian.

Asia said: It’s hard for me to work alone , so what I would do is work with a group of friends to get help. Well, if that’s efficient for you.

 This teacher is giving me really hard assignments and I can’t keep up, what can I do to make it easier?

Shawn said: There is a tutoring room (111 & 112) with tutors willing to help all day. You just have to be willing to go ask for help. This is a very special opportunity that very few schools have, so take advantage of this. Students can go on their own, or they get called down during electives. Another way is talk to your teachers, many of them will let you come before school, during lunch, or after school for help.

Asia said: I would make sure I go to bed at night so I can stay up in class. Getting 7 to 8 hours of sleep is very important  for the mind because it keeps you alert, also for the body so it doesn’t feel tired.

Progress reports are less than a week away, and I’m so close to a higher letter grade, what can I do to boost it?

Shawn said: Some teachers let you correct old assignments, so take advantage of the easy but small things first. Then you can go on Progress Book at home and see what you’re missing in the class. If even that doesn’t bring it up, then ask your teacher for some extra work for extra credit. Some teachers will let you bring in supplies for extra points.

 Asia said: I agree with Shawn, teachers do allow you to do extra work. Also, make sure you turn in your work and stay on your game so you don’t have to work as hard to keep your grade up. Just do your work in class and finish it so you can get your grade for that assignment. I hope this helps!

I believe bullying is a big problem. Have you ever wondered what goes on inside the mind of a bully? Why does a bully, bully? Maybe it’s because someone never showed him how to control his anger. Maybe she is insecure and doesn’t want anyone to know. Maybe he thinks it’s cool. Maybe she thinks her friends will respect her more. Maybe he doesn’t like people who are different. Maybe the bully was once a victim.

We spend a lot of time talking about bullying. We recognize bullying. We know the signs. We know what to do if someone we know is being bullied. We know what to do if we become the victim. These things are very important. We should be talking about them.

But how do we stop bullying? If it were easy, we’d have it figured out by now. Bullying has been around forever. Anywhere from nine percent to fifty percent of children get bullied each year. The only way to stop something is to know why it happens. There are many resources for learning what makes bullies tick. Maybe once we learn why bullies act the way they do, we’ll be able to figure out a way to prevent them from bullying.

Here are a few resources to learn more about the minds of bullies:

Bullies On Bullying: Why We Do It

Dealing With Bullies

Why Bullies Bully

]]> http://www.howardhype.com/opinion/inside-the-mind-of-a-bully/feed/ 0 http://www.howardhype.com/sports/nfl-teams-gone-wild/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=nfl-teams-gone-wild http://www.howardhype.com/sports/nfl-teams-gone-wild/#comments Mon, 17 Oct 2011 21:38:43 +0000 Keith B. http://howardhype.page15.org/?p=9794 This year in the NFL it has been a surprising twist, with the losing teams from last season winning more games than last seasons’ winning teams. Some winning teams this season are the Detroit Lions, Tennessee Titans,Washington Redskins, and many more. The teams that are losing are the Indianapolis Colts, Minnesota Vikings, Philadelphia Eagles, and others.

Some of the teams that have been winning are being called Super Bowl hopefuls.  The teams that have been on a roll lately are the Lions and Bills. Both of those teams are doing well. With the Lions being one of the best teams in the league, with a record of 5-1. Also the Bills have a wonderful record of 4-2.

The Tennessee Titans are rebounding well after a disappointing 2010 season last year with a record of 6-10.  They have jumped up to a good start with newly acquired quarterback, Matt Hasselback and all-star running back, fellow Floridan, Chris Johnson.  The Titans are shaping up to win their division or winning the Wild Card to get a spot in the playoffs. Coming off an embarrassing loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers, the Titans have a bye week, the Titans have some time to regroup and see what they will possibly change, and to strategize against their next opponent.

The Washington Redskins are also rebounding off a terrible season with a record of  6-10. Even with an amazing quarterback, Donavon McNabb, they still had an upsetting season. With new additions that involve Tim Hightower, they have improved with their run game. He is not a household name but he is a true ground-and-pound running back. Their defense is one of the best in the league as of now. Their team captains on defense, London Flecther and DeAngelo Hall, are both very outspoken leaders that the team lacked last year.

Now the team with the most disappointing season so far this year is the Indianapolis Colts. Although their franchise quarterback is not playing, that is not an excuse for being 0-5.  Their defense is pretty well-known for their terrific defensive ends, Dwight Freeny and Robert Mathis, both known for stopping the run and passing game. The Colts have been known this year for blowing big leads. Last week, on Monday Night Football, the Colts were beating the 17-7 lead, so the young Tampa Bay Bucs came back with their young, but also veteran quarterback, Josh Freeman.  The Colts’ star quarterback Peyton Manninng has not played a game since last years’ division playoff round. He is not expected to return for the rest of the season with a neck and vertebrae injury.

I honestly think some of these teams are going to make a big turn around, such as the Eagles, with a win last Sunday against the Washington Redskins, improving their record to 2-4. As for the Superbowl, I honestly think it’s going to be the Green Bay Packers vs. the Baltimore Ravens. We all know that I can be wrong. However, the Raven’s have the third best defense in the league! Who can get around them? The Packers are fourth in the league in total offense behind teams that they can beat by a landslide.  Who do you think is going to go to the Superbowl…..?

The victim was Mark MacPhail, a police officer working as a security guard at Burger King, who got involved in defending someone being assaulted in a parking lot nearby. No evidence was found as to who murdered MacPhail, yet Troy Davis was still convicted and executed. There are many unanswered questions. Was Troy Davis wrongfully convicted? is the question that should be thought about as I dig deeper into this supposed mystery.

People on both sides of the story are crying for justice: some for Officer MacPhail, stating that Troy is guilty and this has been going on for a long period of time. The others stating that there are too many unanswered questions before determining that Troy is guilty. Many are debating whether or not opinions should determine someone’s act. Shouldn’t a man’s innocence or guilt be based more off of evidence and truthful witnesses? However, in this case, many are saying that this case was too opinionated and authorities coached most of the witnesses, which is practically conniving and unjustified. Still, jurors questioned false information they had been given by authorities, basically saying that they did not witness Troy being involved in any killing. Troy was still executed due to a crime he didn’t commit. So,why didn’t authorities listen to the jurors?

Racism seems to be a problem in this event. Three white men from West Memphis  were freed from prison due to new evidence. They were convicted of killing 3 teenage boys. Even though there was a lack of evidence, Troy was not freed from jail and suffered consequences that didn’t apply to him. Two of the men from Memphis were given life in prison and 1 of 3 was facing the death penalty. Georgia’s decision against Troy is what you call cruel and unusual punishment. There is no difference between the the two cases, because no real evidence was found between the two. Troy’s case was most likely based off of personal feelings of the police and the jury.

“Let us all hope that the dark clouds of racial prejudice will soon pass away, and that in some not too distant tomorrow the radiant stars of love and brotherhood will shine over our great nation with all their scintillating beauty,” stated Dr. MLK. America is supposed to be a just nation and treat all people equal as a whole. It’s shocking to know that Three Men of Memphis walked free and Troy Davis is guided into death. Is racism still alive?

Troy Davis is a man who kept his faith as he struggled through darkness. Troy was convicted murder with no evidence leading towards  his identification as a killer. Sometimes you have to think about others. Like the saying … “You don’t understand what it’s like until you’ve walked a mile in my shoes.” I don’t know what it’s like, but I can feel Troy’s pain. However, many questions remain unanswered, but Troy Davis is someone who has marked history. I’ll never forget this horrific event. His trial was based on opinionated jurors and it’s possible that it was also based off the color of his skin. Was Troy Davis wrongfully executed? Is there any justice for Troy? True or False? Right or Wrong? You honestly decide.