Are we glamorizing teen pregnancy?
By Raven Smith
SUN COLUMNIST
“Nowadays it’s like a badge of honor to be a Baby Momma.” –Fantasia.
Are we glamorizing teenage pregnancy? Are babies becoming the new fashion accessory?
More and more girls are expecting and surprisingly becoming the “norm”. Honestly pregnancy is
something that was looked down upon, but now it’s mentioned so highly of.
Teen moms are on the rise. So, who do we blame?
Some say we should blame movies like Juno for setting examples for pregnant teens. Or is it the
parents, for not preparing their teens for sex and how to protect themselves?
“16 & pregnant” is a show that airs on MTV and follows the life of a different 16-year-old expecting
mother each week. The show has been a big hit; I try to tune in every time there is a new episode.
Over one season, six children where born – Bentley, Sophia Laurent, Leah Leanne, Jocelyn Jade,
Weston, and Carly. All were to parents who aren’t half as ready to raise a child, most of them
are children themselves. Many of these parents were warned about the risks and precautions with
having sex. Is this show glamorizing teen pregnancy?
I know that if I became pregnant, my parents would not allow me to do a television show that shows
off the shame of my growing belly.
The biggest decrease in teen pregnancy, 23 percent, occurred amongst African American teens. This
is a major shock seeing that African American teens are often held accountable for teen pregnancy
rates sky rocketing. Many teen moms can not provide a stable environment for
there children, and frequently have more than one child. Children born to teen moms suffer from
health, social, emotional problems throughout their lives.
So, what’s the answer?
There isn’t an answer to why teenage pregnancy rates have dramatically increased. There is no
one to blame. It’s up to the teen to protect herself, if she is doing her “thing.” Although abstinence
should be the decision for teens until marriage, everyone has to make their own decision. Hopefully,
this isn’t a article to scrutinize teen mothers; it’s a warning to insure that we are not glamorizing teen
pregnancy.
Raven Smith is an aspiring journalist and a senior honor roll student at Henry Ford Academy in
Dearborn.
Camp Cavell
By Raven Smith
SUN YOUTH COLUMNIST
Camp Cavell is located in Lexington, Mich., off the beautiful Lake Huron.
Over 55 acres house the memories of many generations. The rustic cabins and the smell of nature
makes up the total camp experience.
Camp Cavell is a YWCA camp. Its mission is “Eliminating racism, and empowering women.” The camp
offers a place to escape from the hustle and bustle of our daily lives. This camp not only offer
programs for children, but for moms, seniors, and families as well. It allows the whole family to get
involved.
I had the opportunity to enjoy the wonderful experience of Camp Cavell for one week. The peaceful
scenery and calming sounds of Lake Huron made my camp experience very pleasing.
Each morning waking up to rustic cabins and beautiful woods was a beautiful site. Everyday our
activities were different and also enjoyable. We did arts & crafts and made some really beautiful tile
coasters.
The next day, we went horse back riding, which was so exciting. The children were so ready to ride
the horses. I rode a horse; this had to be the most beautiful horse I’ve ever seen.
One night after dinner, we had camp fire and roasted marshmallows and made smores. The kids and
counselors told a “never-ending scary story.” This allowed some of the children to imagine the woods
coming “alive.”
Each day, we had 2 to 3 hours to swim in Lake Huron. The horizon from the beach to the ending of the
sun was a breathless sight. We built sand castles, built sand forts, and also buried each other in the
sand. On our third night, our cabin had the opportunity to sleep on the beach. This was the most
electrifying thing I have ever done! As our cabin slept on the beach, I was constantly awaken by the
waves crashing on to the sand. This was the highlight of my experience at Camp Cavell.
Camp Cavell is a great place to spend a little time, and escape the hustle and bustle of your daily life.
You should check it out.
Reggie Reg Davis gives voice to young people
By Raven Smith
SUN YOUTH COLUMNIST
I had the pleasure of interviewing Reginald “Reggie Reg” Davis, of 102.7 FM, and finding out his future
plans for the City of Detroit’s inner city youth.
Reggie Reg has been a radio personality for over 27 years, serving the community in every way possible.
He has always reached out to youth and understand the problems we face.
His decision to run for a seat on the City Charter Commission derives from his interaction with youth
and seeing the things that the City of Detroit is lacking.
Reggie Reg said, “You must understand first that electing the same people, doing the same thing over
and over again is insanity! We must elect people who will make a difference.”
Reggie feels he is very qualified, and I agree. Many of his 27 years on the air have been devoted to
giving and helping youth.
Following the death of his younger brother, Reggie founded the Cease Fire Youth Initiative. This
program travels to schools all over the metro Detroit area, spreading an anti-violence message.
Reggie explained, “Youth, the future, are the most important.”
We are the future of Detroit and this country. Reggie Reg realizes that no one can understand
the things we face on a daily basis. It’s for this reason that he’s running for Charter Commission; not to
make legislation or make rules but to help fix the structure of Detroit. His key goal is to change the
language written in the Charter to better manage the city and help citizens. He wants to have input
on the way the city will work. Reggie Reg wants to include the ideas of young people with bright
minds.
After speaking with him I was convinced that he’s the right person to achieve this.
The City of Detroit will headed in the right direction with great candidates like Reginald “Reggie Reg”
Davis running for City Charter.
Raven Smith is a senior at Henry Ford Academy, a Detroit resident, and an aspiring journalist.
Why can't heaven wait?
By Raven Smith
SUN COLUMNIST
Why can’t heaven wait for Michael Jackson?
Mr. Jackson was the biggest thing to hit this planet since color television.
Michael” King of Pop” Jackson was the biggest crave during the 80’s and remarkably
he still is. His music is universal; teens today can still relate to the things he sings about.
From “Thriller”, “Beat it”, “You Are Not Alone”, and “P.Y.T”, these are all classics that are
still “hip” today.
Many teens look up to Michael and his rags to riches story. He lived the ultimate American
dream. His dreams started at home just singing with his siblings, and turned into an estimated amount
of $2 billion empire. His success is the dream of many young actors, performers, and writers.
His gained success would not have happened with out the guidance and support of his family. Joe
Jackson is reported as the reason the Jackson’s strived for success.
Today, all of that hard work and lots of time spent allows the Jacksons to reap the benefits.
On June 25, Michael Jackson was pronounced dead at a local California hospital. This news spread like
the flu, and everyone was so surprised. Yes, Michael is gone, but his legacy and dreams will
continue. The following days after his death people all over the world dressed up as impersonators.
They each showed their best Michael impersonations. They danced to thriller, showing the creative
choreography and the history behind each step.
Chris Brown is a man who bases his smooth moves on the original King of Pop Michael. The moonwalk,
crotch grabbing, and high pitch screams these are all signature Michael moves. Although Michael is
gone, the Jackson’s will always be in our hearts. Michael Jackson will never be forgotten. Beat it,
Thriller, and Human Nature are still playing on the radio, and will always be classics. Not only will his
legacy carry on but young adults can always look at Michael as a role model who chased his dreams.
So, remember reach for the stars, because if you fall you’ll land on a cloud.
A personal insight to 21st century teenagers
By Raven Smith
SUN COLUMNIST
This is dedicated to every teenager in the metro Detroit area, who feels like no one understands.
What are the most challenging issues teens face today?
Being a teen myself I have to say a main issue is giving up. In today’s world and current economic
situation, it’s easy to fall by the waist side and throw in the towel. The pressure from friends, family,
and teachers becomes unbearable. Living up to the expectations they make for you sets you up for
failure. Every time you take one step forward, you are really taking two steps back. It’ easy to become
a product of your environment, just like many of your friends. No one understands, and parents often
generalize your feelings to say, “I know how you feel, I was your age once…” There is no
encouragement, and no one to seek for help. Many teens find the answers in drugs, alcohol, and
violence. Drugs and violence cause plenty of issues in the young adult community.
On Tuesday, June 30, seven teens were shot waiting at a neighborhood bus stop. Events such as
these are discouraging to teens. Seeing peers gunned down leaves little hope for others. It seems easy
to resolve these issues - many people say get involved, stay active, and make good decisions.
These things are good suggestions, but it takes each individual to change their situation. There is no
easy way out, and we must stay focused on the ultimate goal.
I see the ultimate goal for many is to become successful and to do better than your parents.
However, this all depends on the person. I can’t express enough how hard it is being a teenager
in the 21st century and how easy it is to give up. Many people label all teens to be rude,
inconsiderate, and violent. This is not true; the things we are faced with bring anger and frustration.
Although many teens may fit this description, you can’t label us all to be this way. Each and every
one of us is different in our own ways. It’s up to us to change this world, and it only takes one person.
As said in Notorious, “Before we can change the world we must change ourselves.”
Raven Smith is an honor roll student and a senior at Henry Ford Academy in Detroit.
By Raven Smith
SUN COLUMNIST
“Nowadays it’s like a badge of honor to be a Baby Momma.” –Fantasia.
Are we glamorizing teenage pregnancy? Are babies becoming the new fashion accessory?
More and more girls are expecting and surprisingly becoming the “norm”. Honestly pregnancy is
something that was looked down upon, but now it’s mentioned so highly of.
Teen moms are on the rise. So, who do we blame?
Some say we should blame movies like Juno for setting examples for pregnant teens. Or is it the
parents, for not preparing their teens for sex and how to protect themselves?
“16 & pregnant” is a show that airs on MTV and follows the life of a different 16-year-old expecting
mother each week. The show has been a big hit; I try to tune in every time there is a new episode.
Over one season, six children where born – Bentley, Sophia Laurent, Leah Leanne, Jocelyn Jade,
Weston, and Carly. All were to parents who aren’t half as ready to raise a child, most of them
are children themselves. Many of these parents were warned about the risks and precautions with
having sex. Is this show glamorizing teen pregnancy?
I know that if I became pregnant, my parents would not allow me to do a television show that shows
off the shame of my growing belly.
The biggest decrease in teen pregnancy, 23 percent, occurred amongst African American teens. This
is a major shock seeing that African American teens are often held accountable for teen pregnancy
rates sky rocketing. Many teen moms can not provide a stable environment for
there children, and frequently have more than one child. Children born to teen moms suffer from
health, social, emotional problems throughout their lives.
So, what’s the answer?
There isn’t an answer to why teenage pregnancy rates have dramatically increased. There is no
one to blame. It’s up to the teen to protect herself, if she is doing her “thing.” Although abstinence
should be the decision for teens until marriage, everyone has to make their own decision. Hopefully,
this isn’t a article to scrutinize teen mothers; it’s a warning to insure that we are not glamorizing teen
pregnancy.
Raven Smith is an aspiring journalist and a senior honor roll student at Henry Ford Academy in
Dearborn.
Camp Cavell
By Raven Smith
SUN YOUTH COLUMNIST
Camp Cavell is located in Lexington, Mich., off the beautiful Lake Huron.
Over 55 acres house the memories of many generations. The rustic cabins and the smell of nature
makes up the total camp experience.
Camp Cavell is a YWCA camp. Its mission is “Eliminating racism, and empowering women.” The camp
offers a place to escape from the hustle and bustle of our daily lives. This camp not only offer
programs for children, but for moms, seniors, and families as well. It allows the whole family to get
involved.
I had the opportunity to enjoy the wonderful experience of Camp Cavell for one week. The peaceful
scenery and calming sounds of Lake Huron made my camp experience very pleasing.
Each morning waking up to rustic cabins and beautiful woods was a beautiful site. Everyday our
activities were different and also enjoyable. We did arts & crafts and made some really beautiful tile
coasters.
The next day, we went horse back riding, which was so exciting. The children were so ready to ride
the horses. I rode a horse; this had to be the most beautiful horse I’ve ever seen.
One night after dinner, we had camp fire and roasted marshmallows and made smores. The kids and
counselors told a “never-ending scary story.” This allowed some of the children to imagine the woods
coming “alive.”
Each day, we had 2 to 3 hours to swim in Lake Huron. The horizon from the beach to the ending of the
sun was a breathless sight. We built sand castles, built sand forts, and also buried each other in the
sand. On our third night, our cabin had the opportunity to sleep on the beach. This was the most
electrifying thing I have ever done! As our cabin slept on the beach, I was constantly awaken by the
waves crashing on to the sand. This was the highlight of my experience at Camp Cavell.
Camp Cavell is a great place to spend a little time, and escape the hustle and bustle of your daily life.
You should check it out.
Reggie Reg Davis gives voice to young people
By Raven Smith
SUN YOUTH COLUMNIST
I had the pleasure of interviewing Reginald “Reggie Reg” Davis, of 102.7 FM, and finding out his future
plans for the City of Detroit’s inner city youth.
Reggie Reg has been a radio personality for over 27 years, serving the community in every way possible.
He has always reached out to youth and understand the problems we face.
His decision to run for a seat on the City Charter Commission derives from his interaction with youth
and seeing the things that the City of Detroit is lacking.
Reggie Reg said, “You must understand first that electing the same people, doing the same thing over
and over again is insanity! We must elect people who will make a difference.”
Reggie feels he is very qualified, and I agree. Many of his 27 years on the air have been devoted to
giving and helping youth.
Following the death of his younger brother, Reggie founded the Cease Fire Youth Initiative. This
program travels to schools all over the metro Detroit area, spreading an anti-violence message.
Reggie explained, “Youth, the future, are the most important.”
We are the future of Detroit and this country. Reggie Reg realizes that no one can understand
the things we face on a daily basis. It’s for this reason that he’s running for Charter Commission; not to
make legislation or make rules but to help fix the structure of Detroit. His key goal is to change the
language written in the Charter to better manage the city and help citizens. He wants to have input
on the way the city will work. Reggie Reg wants to include the ideas of young people with bright
minds.
After speaking with him I was convinced that he’s the right person to achieve this.
The City of Detroit will headed in the right direction with great candidates like Reginald “Reggie Reg”
Davis running for City Charter.
Raven Smith is a senior at Henry Ford Academy, a Detroit resident, and an aspiring journalist.
Why can't heaven wait?
By Raven Smith
SUN COLUMNIST
Why can’t heaven wait for Michael Jackson?
Mr. Jackson was the biggest thing to hit this planet since color television.
Michael” King of Pop” Jackson was the biggest crave during the 80’s and remarkably
he still is. His music is universal; teens today can still relate to the things he sings about.
From “Thriller”, “Beat it”, “You Are Not Alone”, and “P.Y.T”, these are all classics that are
still “hip” today.
Many teens look up to Michael and his rags to riches story. He lived the ultimate American
dream. His dreams started at home just singing with his siblings, and turned into an estimated amount
of $2 billion empire. His success is the dream of many young actors, performers, and writers.
His gained success would not have happened with out the guidance and support of his family. Joe
Jackson is reported as the reason the Jackson’s strived for success.
Today, all of that hard work and lots of time spent allows the Jacksons to reap the benefits.
On June 25, Michael Jackson was pronounced dead at a local California hospital. This news spread like
the flu, and everyone was so surprised. Yes, Michael is gone, but his legacy and dreams will
continue. The following days after his death people all over the world dressed up as impersonators.
They each showed their best Michael impersonations. They danced to thriller, showing the creative
choreography and the history behind each step.
Chris Brown is a man who bases his smooth moves on the original King of Pop Michael. The moonwalk,
crotch grabbing, and high pitch screams these are all signature Michael moves. Although Michael is
gone, the Jackson’s will always be in our hearts. Michael Jackson will never be forgotten. Beat it,
Thriller, and Human Nature are still playing on the radio, and will always be classics. Not only will his
legacy carry on but young adults can always look at Michael as a role model who chased his dreams.
So, remember reach for the stars, because if you fall you’ll land on a cloud.
A personal insight to 21st century teenagers
By Raven Smith
SUN COLUMNIST
This is dedicated to every teenager in the metro Detroit area, who feels like no one understands.
What are the most challenging issues teens face today?
Being a teen myself I have to say a main issue is giving up. In today’s world and current economic
situation, it’s easy to fall by the waist side and throw in the towel. The pressure from friends, family,
and teachers becomes unbearable. Living up to the expectations they make for you sets you up for
failure. Every time you take one step forward, you are really taking two steps back. It’ easy to become
a product of your environment, just like many of your friends. No one understands, and parents often
generalize your feelings to say, “I know how you feel, I was your age once…” There is no
encouragement, and no one to seek for help. Many teens find the answers in drugs, alcohol, and
violence. Drugs and violence cause plenty of issues in the young adult community.
On Tuesday, June 30, seven teens were shot waiting at a neighborhood bus stop. Events such as
these are discouraging to teens. Seeing peers gunned down leaves little hope for others. It seems easy
to resolve these issues - many people say get involved, stay active, and make good decisions.
These things are good suggestions, but it takes each individual to change their situation. There is no
easy way out, and we must stay focused on the ultimate goal.
I see the ultimate goal for many is to become successful and to do better than your parents.
However, this all depends on the person. I can’t express enough how hard it is being a teenager
in the 21st century and how easy it is to give up. Many people label all teens to be rude,
inconsiderate, and violent. This is not true; the things we are faced with bring anger and frustration.
Although many teens may fit this description, you can’t label us all to be this way. Each and every
one of us is different in our own ways. It’s up to us to change this world, and it only takes one person.
As said in Notorious, “Before we can change the world we must change ourselves.”
Raven Smith is an honor roll student and a senior at Henry Ford Academy in Detroit.
PEACE, LOVE & POPCORN
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| Raven Smith is a youth columnist and co-host of Xpose' Under the Sun radio program that airs every Tuesday on WHPR 88.1 FM from 8 pm to 9 pm. She is also an honor roll student and senior at Henry Ford Academy. |