CENTRAL Senior Jed Forster earns academic honors Page 13

March 20, 2015 Vol. 21, Issue 5 centralstampede.com @CentralStampede StampedePortage Central H.S. l 8135 S. Westnedge Ave. l Portage, MI 49002 Oct. 4, 2013 What’s Inside... Bake sales may return Legislation at state level would allow old fundraising methods

BY MADISON JAQUA Editor-in-Chief

Students may Fundraising in a high school setting Skype with ‘World always seemed fairly simple: food. Stu- dents can never seem to eat enough, War Z’ author especially the sweet stuff. Forensics sold suckers and clubs like Moose Project hosted bake sales. But this year, with the passing of the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act, these fun- draising events became obsolete, leaving page many clubs without fundraising options. 3 However, there are two new bills, one in the state Senate and another in the state House of Representatives, that would al- low at maximum three fundraising events a week to sell food or drinks that do not have to meet the nutritional standards. Many see this as a promising option to strigent federal guidelines. According to Activities Director Kent White, under the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act, every item in a bake sale has to be pre-approved by the district. As well, the district has to have, on file, the nutri- tional values of all the items available for Brian drops bars purchase. “It would have been so cumbersome in the Brianstorm and so impossible that we basically just made bake sales not an option [as a fund- raiser],” White said. Many clubs took a huge hit because of the no-bake sale rule. White said that bake sales were the number one way of page fundraising for a lot of the groups. Groups 6 have had to find new ways of funding, but Claire Abdo/STAMPEDE they just aren’t as effective. Selling Out: Last week, senior Carly Pratt sells popcorn to senior Taylor Hunter. Popcorn is sold in the lobby, where bake “A lot of groups have tried, what I sales were held. This space is so effective for fundraising because many students pass through this area during the day. How well do you thought were really smart ways of fund- know your raising, but they just don’t have the same Alpaca, according to senior Savannah government and the Michigan Depart- suckers being able to fundraise,” Mills said. result,” White said. Lamphier. Every teacher will have a jar in ment of Education had overstepped their White remains hopeful that at least teachers? For example, the forensics team this his or her room and students put money boundaries. one of the new bills will pass. 1 year is selling Butter Braids which is a 2 into the jars of the teachers that they “While we understand that obesity “The bill has quite a few co-sponsors 3 4 type of bread. They are taking orders for want to kiss an alpaca. is our nation’s number one epidemic, it in both houses, and so it looks like it actu- the bread, instead of actually selling the 5 6 “It’s going to be really interesting,” is important that we teach moderation ally has a pretty good chance of passing,” 7 8 product. Although the Butter Braids are 9 Lamphier said. “That’s what we have when eating, “ O’Brien said. “Banning the White said. 10 helping to raise money, nothing can com- coming up.” sale of sweets or other delicious treats O’Brien stresses that the banning of 11 pare to the suckers, according to forensics 12 Although Lamphier admits that bake as part of fundraisers on school property bake sales wasn’t effective toward accom- 13 14 leader Theresa Mills. 15 16 sales were easier, she says that if they does not really benefit anyone.” plishing the goal of healthy children. She “The suckers pretty much sold them- were allowed to do them again, they This new law would mean that not points out that while bake sales and cake 17 selves,” Mills said. “And it was easy, every- would probably still include the Kiss the only would clubs be allowed to use bake walks are popular ways to fundraise, com- 18 one has a dollar to fork out for something 19 Alpaca fundraiser because “it would be sales as a way of funding again, but the fo- munity walks and runs have also become sweet.” fun to see a teacher kiss an alpaca.” rensics team could again sell suckers. Not more prevalent. 20 Other clubs, such as Moose Project, The idea for this new bill came from R- only would this increase the funding, but “We should look at health more glob- have had to get creative with their fun- Canton, Sen. Patrick Colbeck, a colleague it would also be easier. ally and embrace active lifestyles, “ O’Brien page draising. This year, instead of bake sales, of R-Kalamazoo Sen. Margaret O’Brien “It would be nice to think that we said. “The more active one’s lifestyle, the 11 they’re running an event called Kiss the who said that Colbeck felt the federal could have 70 kids running around with healthier one tends to eat.” 2 news March 20, 2015 MEAP test retired after 44 years in brief Instead, juniors will take the new online M-Step test in April Global Youth Volunteer BY NICO SCHUEN Focus Editor Day approaching soon Volunteer Kalamazoo’s Youth Service Council Instead of taking the Michigan Educational As- and organizations around are celebrating Global sessment Program (MEAP) test this year, juniors Youth Service Day on April 18th. Many project sites across the state will be taking the new Michigan Stu- will be set up around Kalamazoo County. Youth can dent Test of Educational Progress (M-Step) tests in sign-up as an individual, or with a group. Each site April. The MEAP tests have been retired by the state, will accept a designated number of volunteers so with the M-Step tests taking their place in the Michi- don’t wait too long to register, or your site may fill gan Merit Exams (MME). up. Some sites may be held at Portage Central. For After serving 44 years as an assessment program more details and/or to register for a GYSD volunteer across the state for third, fourth, seventh, eighth and opportunity, please visit Volunteer Kalamazoo’s web- ninth grade, the state has finally decided an overhaul site at www. Go.volunteerkalamazoo.org and click of the MEAP test was necessary. Late in 2014, the on the Global Youth Service Day banner. The banner Michigan Department of Education (MDE) created and registration page will be live around April 1st. a team to develop a new test due to the retirement of the previous program. With that, the M-Step was created. Spring break starts in The M-Step still has the four main subjects: Eng- lish, Math, Science and Social Studies. It will test stu- two weeks on April 2 dents on how well they are learning Michigan’s cur- Spring break begins on Thursday April 2 which riculum taught by Michigan teachers. However, one will be a half-day for students. Students will have the new feature the M-Step will bring is that the test can next week off school until Sunday, April 12. School either be done through paper and pencil, similar to resumes Monday, April 13. the old MEAP test, or online through the computer. Juniors here will be taking the test online through a Claire Abdo /STAMPEDE combination of desktops and chromebooks. Going Online: Juniors will take the MEAP replacement test, the M-Step, online because it can be more Gardening day springs According to test coordinator Trish King, one of efficent and waste less materials. All students will still attend school, after the juniors complete the test. the biggest problems could potentially be technical into action on April 18 issues. dents and teachers will not have to deal with several Since this is the M-Step’s first year of testing, there The Portage Central Botanical Society (Garden- “Every junior in Michigan is taking these tests so different sheets to take the M-Step. Instead, all of it are only estimates on how long the M-Step will take. ing Club) is holding Gardening Day on Saturday, you have to think about thousands of kids and hun- will be done through the computer, creating a more The English portion along with the Math portion are April 18th from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. This four hour long dreds of high schools trying to log on and jump on efficient way of test taking. estimated to take two hours each, while the Science event will start off the new gardening season. Ser- a website,” King said. “That’s why the MDE gives you According to Principal Eric Alburtus, the juniors and Social Studies portions will take 50 minutes. The vice hours will be given to volunteers who help out several weeks to give the test, but we’re just hoping should solely focus on doing their best on the M-Step. testing will be spaced out over several days. at the event. An additional service hour will be given there’s not a lot of technical problems.” “Together, teachers and our juniors have done Juniors will continue to have school after the test- to those who bring a store-bought snack to share However, the introduction of online testing may their best over the years so that they would have the ing but the times and the process of the testing have and an additional two service hours will be given also improve the efficiency of test taking. Due to not tools to be successful on whatever they face. The M- yet to be finalized. Yet, all students will have to come to those who bring a homemade snack. On Friday, requiring pencils, paper or answer documents, stu- Step is no different,” Alburtus said. in during the day of M-Step testing for school. May 15 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. is Portage Planting day where the Gardening Club sends their members to help Kalamazoo in Bloom to plant. See Janet LaVasseur for more details. Major speakers, such as Mark Miller who is speaking on behalf of the Climate Mustangs eager for Lee’s new sequel Reality Team, will be coming in to speak for Garden- ing Club throughout March and April. See a flyer for vous,” Baas said. “When you have this many years in BY SCOTT SOLOMON Baas also looks forward to seeing the themes that more information. between, you wonder what’s going to be similar and are addressed throughout the new novel and whether Editor-in-Chief what’s not going to be similar.” these themes are still relevant to today’s world, like the Baas said he was more hesitant towards “Go Set a themes in “To Kill a Mockingbird.” Senior art showcase Staff and students are excited for the release of Watchman” than Senior Griffin “Go Set a Watchman.” This book, the sequel to “To Kill some of his col- Gooch is also very coming on March 26 a Mockingbird,” is the first book released by Harper leagues. He appreci- excited about the Lee since her original best-seller released in 1960. ates the mysterious release of Lee’s sec- On Thursday March 26, students from the IB art The book will be released after a lost manuscript nature of Lee as an ond book. Initially class as well as other senior artists will be display- was found earlier this year. The manuscript, which author and looks he was skeptical of ing their artwork at the First Reformed Church. The was originally written in the 1950’s, will be released forward to learning the new work, but church is located across from the Portage City Hall by the publishing company HaperCollins this sum- more about how her upon further re- and next to the Library on South Westnedge. Here, mer. writing has devel- search he warmed the Portage Central High School art department Lee’s lawyer and the company came to an agree- oped and changed. up to the idea. will exhibit the work of senior artists. Doors open at ment, which allowed the book to be published. “Why did she “I was hesi- 3 p.m., right after school, and close at 8 p.m. Please “To Kill a Mockingbird” used to be taught in the kind of become re- tant on how I felt come to support your fellow Mustangs and their freshman curriculum, and next year will be moved cluse to the world?” about it because hard work into the junior year curriculum. Baas said. “It’ll be ‘To Kill a Mocking- Senior Travis Wilkinson heard of the news while cool to see what she bird’ seemed like watching CBS one night, and is extremely excited. thinks of the world.” a beautiful work Mustang talks program Wilkinson stresses how important of a piece of litera- While Baas of stand alone lit- ture “To Kill a Mockingbird” is, and he hopes for the currently teaches erature,” Gooch said. returns this spring best from “Go Set a Watchman.” sophomore English “But when I heard The Mustang Talks series will have its next gath- “Her classic has been translated into over 40 lan- (which does not cov- that Lee wrote this ering on Earth Day, April 21, and will feature speak- guages,” Wilkinson said. “Hopefully this novel lives up er “To Kill a Mocking- around the same ers Jill Waskowsky and Chris Lane. Waskowsky plans to this success.” bird”) he hopes to time as the original, on talking about art and the influence of nature in English teacher Tyler Baas echoes Wilkinson's use both the original and the sequel while teaching his I became completely all for it.” art. Lane will talk about enviremental science and thoughts on the new piece of literature. creative writing class and coaching his forensics team Staff and students alike seem to agree that this current trends in ecology. The talk will take place in “I’m really excited, quite pumped and also ner- members. book’s intrigue will make it hard not to pick up. the Community Room at 7 p.m. March 20, 2015 news 3 Changes in gas prices affect students Snow days Recent drop in gas prices allows students to spend elsewhere impact BY ZACH FRANKS Sophomore Ben Alvarez en- Staff Writer joys the freedom of being able to go out when he wants to. “I drive because I need to get summer One of the many expenses of driving a car is fill- places,” Alvarez said. ing up the gas tank. This can be especially costly for Despite gas prices being students who pay for their own gas with a limited significantly lower, students feel income. Gas prices have dropped from about 4 dol- that they have not increased break lars in June 2014 to just above 2 dollars in the past their amount of driving. Instead BY ISABELLA PEDRAZA 6 months, giving students the opportunity to spend of driving more, students feel their money elsewhere. they have more money to spend Staff Writer According to Business Insider, the dramatic drop elsewhere or on other, more de- in prices is due to several reasons. The price of crude sired items. Pajamas on inside out and back to front. Pota- oil has decreased from over 100 dollars a barrel in Junior Amanda Boelman toes under pillows. Ice cubes down the toilet. This March of 2014 to around 50 dollars a barrel now. This says that she has been able to go ritual could only mean one thing; there’s a chance for is due to the United States fracking in the Gulf of Mex- out to eat more with her friends a snow day. But when the snow day limit has been ico, as well as discovering a surplus of untapped oil. since the recent decrease in gas reached, the hope for blizzards goes down and the Towards the end of 2014, the United States shale pro- prices. fear of having to spend extra days in the summer duction surged and the OPEC oil cartel of 12 mem- “It’s been nice having more rises. bers continued to maintain its output. This caused money to spend on food when Michigan schools are required to provide at least prices to drop and a temporary period of some eco- I go out to lunch,” Boelman said. 175 days and at least 1,098 hours of instruction. Ac- nomic relief for drivers everywhere. With gas prices slowly creep- cording to the Michigan Department of Education, In a survey of 54 sophomores, juniors and seniors, ing back up, no one can be sure the 2015-2016 school year will have an increased 63 percent of students have a drivers license. 47 per- how much longer it will be be- amount of instructional days from 175 to 180. How- cent of those students said that they pay for their fore gas is back to its original, ever, Representative Phil Potvin introduced House Bill own gas. Most students who have to pay are seniors less affordable, price. Students 4157 on Feb. 4 to increase the allowable snow days with jobs. said they will still drive just as from six to nine days a year. Whether it’s after school sports and clubs or much despite gas prices, but ex- If Michigan schools don’t reach the required hanging out with friends, many students find it con- tra spending money never hurt Claire Abdo/STAMPEDE amount of instructional days, $60,000 for each day venient to be able to drive themselves places and not anyone, even if the only place we Filling Up: With the lowered gas prices, students are finding they missed is taken out of the state aid allocation given to have to rely on rides from others. have to eat is the Chicken Coop. can fill up their gas tanks and still have extra spending money. schools. An additional six days (or equivalent hours) of forgiven time may be requested to the State Super- intendent if days are cancelled after April 1. This year Portage Public Schools has had seven Plans for call with Max Brooks snow days on Nov. 18, Jan. 7, 8, 9, 29 and Feb. 2 and 20. The additional snow day on Feb. 20 has resulted in the extension the school year into summer, which BY CAITLIN MATTHEWS that.” ages, and this is a great medium to do it.” may disappoint students and staff hoping to get out News Editor Non fiction graphic novels, such as “Harlem Hell- Baker plans to give students in his International on Friday June 5. fighters”, are not popular, but can be incredibly help- Baccalaureate (I.B) History class, Contemporary Inter- “I’d still want a snow day now, because we need Media Center coordinator Sara Brown is kickstart- ful since they provide an image and story to history natioal Studies (C.I.S) class and his Junior World His- one now,” sophomore Chris Redlon said. “ We’ve gone ing a community reading program in which both stu- and science. Brown also has graphic novels on other tory class the option to read this book if they choose. so long without having a break and it doesn’t matter dents and the community can bond through books topics, such as calculus. It will not be required, just an extra historical source if we have one extra day in the summer.” and special reading events. Currently, she is planning History teacher Kent Baker proposed the of information. According to Community Relations manager a skype interview with Max Brooks, the author of idea of interviewing Brooks and studying However, diving into Brook’s “Harlem Hellfight- Sarah Baker, the PPS administration makes the deci- the graphic novel “Harlem Hellfighters” and of his book “Harlem Hellfighters”. Baker finds ers“ is just the tip of the iceberg. Next year, Brown sion whether or not to have a snow day by consider- the novel “World War Z”, which is now a major the story and the author’s use of a graphic hopes to actually bring authors to the school to meet ing the conditions of the roads, as well as the tem- motion picture. This Skype call will take place in novel fasinating. in classrooms and/or speak publicly. She has contact- perature outside, for those students who must wait the Media Center for students and members of Baker is considering trying to add this ed many authors about the idea, including Maggie for busses or walk to school. The PPS administration the community to join and ask Brooks questions book into the curriculum next year. It is Stiefvater, Kristin Levine, Holly Goldberg Sloan and does not state a set temperature in which schools about his novels. an almost unheard of story that truly high- Markus Zusak. To have the authors come to Portage, have to close. The police department also plays a role “I saw him (Brooks) speak at the Kalamazoo Pub- lights the struggle of the African Ameri- however, will cost a lot of money as the school must in their decision, and they may advise them to keep lic Library. It has been a couple years, but it was can 369th infantry regiment dur- pay for flights and accommodations for the author. students off the road. on ‘World War Z’ and the zombie theme ing World War I. This insight Eventually, Brown wants to make this a city-wide Besides the fact that school will be extended into and he was just a really cool, interest- would be beneifical and event. In her eyes, there could be events at the Por- summer, students continue to hope for the roads to ing, fun guy,” Brown said. “I was in- entertaining for Baker’s tage District Library or even a movie night at Cele- get icy and snow to fall. The joy of waking up to a trigued by him.” history classes. bration Cinema with the film of one of the authors snow day is still exciting to students. The Skype interview is current- Like many others, books. For example, if Max Brook’s “Harlem hellfight- “Snow days are amazing because you get this huge ly in the planning stages. Brooks Baker was a little skep- ers” was the community read, there could be sessions joy of “yeah no school!” and then you realize you get is interested in Skyping with PC tical about reading a on how to draw comic book and graphic illustrations to sleep in which is even better,” freshman Meghana and both he and Brown are plan- graphic novel, since as well as watching ‘World War Z’. Odapally said. ning tentative dates. As of now, it reminded him too Of course, these are all ideas, and none are set in the Skype call will take place much of a comic book. stone. Brown mainly wants to contact authors who sometime in April in the Media But after reading and write for young adults. Not only would this provide Center. All students are wel- digging deeper into more reading material for students, but it would al- Snow Days: come to this free event. Brown the topic, Baker finds low families to read together. believes that talking to Brooks will spark interest in it is an incredible source of information over an un- For more updates on this event, please check Nov. 18 his books, especially his new graphic novel, “Harlem familiar story. Unlike most comics, this story should www.centralstampede.com or talk to Brown in the Hellfighters”. be taken seriously. Media Center. If any students would be interested in “One of my goals has been to get non fiction “If you look at the story, it is a great story and a donating, starting fundraisers, or even helping out Jan. 7,8,9,29 graphic novels into students’ hands,” Brown said. very serious topic,” Baker said. “The author really did with the Skype call, Brown would appreciate the help. “I haven’t been overly successful yet. I have built a his homework on it and is obviously really passionate If any students are interested in reading “Harlem Hell- Feb. 2, 20 decent collection, but I am hoping this will kickstart about it. He wants to get this story out to people of all fighters“ there are copies in the Media Center. 4 view March 20, 2015 Bake sales should be brought back for needed funding We heavily support two bills in and he or often do action forces us to dedicate more both houses of the state legislature she should staff editorial not receive of our pages to advertisements that would facilitate bake sales be fully recogni- in order to have enough funds to to return. Since the implementa- capable of tion. No publish and maintain a website. tion of the Healthy, Hunger-Free deciding whether or not to eat un- matter how underrepresented As a staff, we unanimously agree Kids Act, public schools have been healthy food. Students are already a club may be, baked goods will that bake sales should return, but limited in bake sale fundraising limited with their food options draw in a wide variety of students we believe an additional point events to the extent in which they when they consume the majority who would not normally contrib- must be acknowledged. are nearly impossible to organize. of their food: at lunch. The school ute financially to the club. Bake sales, which have recently Under the new bill, schools would enforces tight restrictions on the As a self-sufficient organization, restricted fundraising activities, be able to have three bake sale portion sizes and nutritional con- The Stampede’s funding is entirely would not be necessary if the fundraising events per week. tent of the food. self-raised. Before the legislation government provided sufficient We believe that the health of Additionally, bake sales help , we made upwards of $300 per funding to co-curriculars like the the student is his or her decision, fundraise for organizations that bake sale. Implementation of this Stampede. StampedeCENTRAL Scott Solomon Madison Jaqua five five Editors-in-Chief on Caitlin Matthews, Lucy Forster...... News Editors Brian Taggett...... View Editor Nico Schuen...... Focus Editor Devon Wilson...... Vibe Editor Jared Lutz...... Sports Editor Alex Block...... Website Manager Claire Abdo...... Photo Editor Staff Writers: Jori Gelbaugh, Malak Ghazal, Shawna Huang, Dayton Juday, Dakotah Lilly, Nolan Caranci, Zach Franks, Kelsee Ha, Brianna Martinez, Olivia Oles, Bella Pedraza, Sharwari Nevin Schuring, 9th Alicia Abdo, 10th Jawad Aqueel, 11th Annie Marshall, 12th Mr. Schafer Salvi, Kate Spears Business Manager: Ethan Dunlop 1. If you were an author, what would your pen name be? (p. 2) Adviser: Cheryl Braford Notorious Knevin. Monalisha. Fudge. Bic, like the pen. Get I. M. Thinking. The Central Stampede publishes approximately one it? LOL. publication a month, primarily by the Journalism II class at Portage Central High School, 8135 S. Westnedge, Portage, MI 49002. It also uses work from Journalism I students. 2. What should be done to improve school spirit? (p. 5) The Central Stampede is a member of the Michigan Interscholastic Press Association (MIPA). The Be more involved in More pep rallys. Everyone should make Student Council needs Different dress up purpose of the Central Stampede is to act as an open sports. mixtape. to choose better dress days. forum for students of Portage Central. The staff up days. Who chose will achieve a balance between informing and Mardi Gras? entertaining our readers.

Editorials 3. If you had the choice, which school would you go to for a day? (p. 9) Staff editorials are unsigned and represent consen- Torry Pines High School in Sky High. La Jolla High School. East High. A school in a 3rd sus of the staff. The opinion of the staff is repre- San Diego because my sented in the “Our View” column. The opinions world country. cousin goes there and of the editors, staff writers and guest writers will he gets to surf for his 1st have bylines and will carry their own views. hour class. Letters As an open forum, the Stampede welcomes all 4. What’s your favorite show to binge watch? (p. 12) members of the Portage community. However, “Supernatural.” “Little Women L.A.” “Degrassi” #OvOSeason. “Parks and Recreation.” I want to watch “Break- the staff reserves the right to edit letters based on because that show is hi- ing Bad.” length and content. larious and I reccomend everyone to watch it. Phone: (269) 323-5218 Fax: (269) 323-5290 Room: 2116 5. What do you think high school would have been like in 1932? (p. 14)

The Central Stampede There would be no Boring and black and Nothing was the same. Maybe they learned prac- Hard working, would have Portage Central High School electricity and it would white. tical real life things like how needed a part-time job. be cold. to balance a checkbook With fewer students going 8135 South Westnedge Ave. or create a budget. Can I to college, high school Portage, MI 49002 get an amen? friendships would be more permanent. March 20, 2015 view 5 Which academic program is better? International Kalamazoo Area Baccalaureate Diploma Math & Science creates well-rounded Center builds students BY BRIAN TAGGETT knowledge and Through the IB Diploma, candidates not only BY JORI GELBAUGH View Editor friendships develop skills within the classroom, but partici- Staff Writer My older brother completed the International pate in extracurricular activities, ultimately cre- Baccalaureate Diploma two years ago when I was ating well-rounded students. In order to receive When I first signed up to enroll in the Kalamazoo these classes are applicable to life, making much of a sophomore. While I had held my own in hon- the diploma, candidates are required to complete Area Math and Science Center (KAMSC) as a fresh- the material that is taught extremely beneficial. ors courses my freshman and sophomore years, I a total of 150 hours of activities that emphasize man, I did not realize how rigorous and demanding The staff at KAMSC encourages students to was engaged in a competitive sibling rivalry and creativity, action and service. While this may be the program would be. It challenged me far beyond exceed expectations in every assignment, which decided to sign up as a candidate for the IB Di- perceived as a daunting task, countless activities academic capabilities, as the emphasis on perfection caused me to produce work that I would not have ploma. This surpasses eating four slices of Sam’s quantify to fulfill this requirement that ensures motivated me to expand beyond the academic po- thought possible without their challenging expecta- Club Pizza once at lunch as my best decision in that students are not only focused upon their tential I had previously believed possible. tions. I am much better at managing my time and I high school. studies. Throughout the program, my teachers insisted feel far more prepared for college classes as a result While alternate schooling options like the Ka- The dinner plate sized med- upon my growth as a student, of those rigorous courses. lamazoo Area Math and Science Center do an ef- al a candidate receives upon challenging me to expand my Furthermore, I developed strong friendships with fective job of offering extensive teaching in math, graduation may incentivize the academic interest beyond the students from around the area. The hardest part science and technology, IB separates itself by of- hard work, but the long-term classroom. They offered extra about leaving KAMSC was the prospect of not being fering a complete, well-rounded package. From benefits of the diploma pro- credit and enrichment oppor- able to spend every day with some of the most driven history to physics, environmental systems to psy- gram go far beyond the trinket. tunities that I never would have students I’ve met. chology and nearly every major core subject in be- Not only is it internationally received had I not been a part of KAMSC offers several events throughout the year, tween, IB offers a more expansive curriculum than recognized, but the completion V S.KAMSC. For students interested in careers in the fields such as the Spring Formal (the best KAMSC dance by the math and science dominated KAMSC. of the diploma often brings college credit. For a of math, science and computing, these opportunities far), Film Fest (I made some of my favorite high school The Extended Essay, a research paper up to school I am considering, those who complete the provide valuable opportunities to further their suc- memories during this lock in), Cricket Team (the best 4,000 words that offers students the opportunity IB Diploma enter the university with sophomore cess in that career. and only in the state), and the recently added Soccer to conduct independent research or investigation status, saving tens of thousands of dollars. With Additionally, the classes offered are not typically Team. on a topic that interests them, effectively prepares college credit comes free money to buy even more offered at schools around the area. One of the key ad- Of all of the positive things that I took away from students for college level assignments. Through Sam’s Club pizza. vantages to KAMSC is that it offers computing classes KAMSC, the friendships were by far the most invalu- the completion of the Extended Essay, candidates While KAMSC does an excellent job of special- that teach the basics of coding and programming. able and made the stressful work worth it. Regardless develop close relationships with advisors who of- izing in math and science, the versatility and rec- Through programming field trips and coding compe- of the friendships, the challenges that have prepared fer insight in the writing of the assignment. For ognition of the IB Diploma program sets it apart titions, I learned how to develop software and code me for college as well as the classes offered make me, I was fortunate enough to work closely with from the half-day program at the old Kalamazoo programs, knowledge that I still use even though I’m KAMSC better than the International Baccalaureate Mr. Alburtus over the summer to complete my es- Central High School building. not currently at KAMSC. Many of the topics taught in Program. say. Our school needs spirit and engagement in. A major influence in this are the seniors. If the senior class is involved and spirited, it will make the under- classmen be more comfortable to participate. Alternatively, if a hallway of students are not involved in the dress up day, then being one of the few dressed for the occasion makes a student feel like an outcast. BY SHARWARI SALVI This year for winter homecom- ing, only 7 percent of the student Staff Writer body dressed up for Mardi Gras day, while less than 20 percent of the Viewing a pep assembly or basketball game with student body dressed for 80’s work bleachers packed full of students dressed to the out day. The fact that only one out of finest in blue and gold, or walking through the hall- five people dress for a once popular ways during 80’s workout day, seeing nearly every dress up day, this is proof that our student strutting in their legwarmers and florescent school needs to be more spirited and colored attire. This is what I envision as a ‘traditional involved. Being involved in minimal engaged high school’. However our school engage- activities such as home-coming dress ment has dissipated to a faded blue and gold. up days, bonds the school together, Our school spirit and engagement has gone regardless of social groups or age. Little Spirit: Juniors Ryan Patout and Robert Miller and senior Lewis Kordupel spent halftime on their phone at down Mustang Way and out of the common doors. With some of the absurd dress up the Sept. 26 football game against Gull Lake. In the recent Gallup Poll, which surveyed the school days, and scheduling conflicts, it’s not in the fall of 2014, only 49% of the students felt possible for every student to be en- dance per football game is approximately more their comfort zone. For some, high school may be a engaged with the school. Seeing that only half of the gaged. But it is foolish not even attempting to show than 650 people. Attendance for school games and despicable period in their life. Being engaged and student body felt engaged in areas like involvement pride and make the most of a high school career events seems to have fallen over these past years. involved can change that, and open up opportuni- with the school and teachers makes our amount of with the historic traditions that our school allows us Our game attendance has fallen within just a few ties to create an unforgettable four years. school pride disappointing, to say the least. the privilege to have. years. In the 2011 football season our school had a I’m not asking students to put on the smelly The actions of our peers is like a domino effect; if Only 36,005 dollars were spent on tickets for all ticket revenue of 52,966 dollars. mascot suit and parade around a football game. I’m one person participates in the homecoming games home freshman, junior varsity, and varsity football Any action that one may do becomes more simply asking that the students of Portage Central and dress up days, other will be encouraged to join games by the general public. The average atten- enjoyable when one takes risks and steps out of should express their Mustang pride. 6 view March 20, 2015 Classical music is Bach in style Why I really love classical music –­ and why most people don’t

BY BRIAN TAGGETT View Editor My brief, nuanced and BY SHAWNA HUANG legendary career as an Staff Writer educational rapper Whenever I tell someone that I like classical music, most people just give me a look that says, “You’re a With crisp autumn leaves and a fear that the huge freaking dork.” And, yeah, I’ll agree that classical world was going to end that winter, the fall of my music isn’t the world’s most common passion. I my- sophomore year stands out in my memory not as a self was forced into the world of classical music at the time of subpar performances on the junior varsity age of 5 when my parents sat me down at the piano cross country team, but as a time when an alter-ego and told me to play. But more than a decade later, I’m was launched. still here. I’ve fallen in love with the classical music For the Oct. 23 “Mole Day celebration” that year that most of my peers can’t stand. I’ve been caught in Mr. Taylor’s Honors Chemistry 2 course, I paired several times humming classical tunes in math or tap- up with then-senior Vivek Krishnan to complete the ping out piano pieces on my desk in history. (I apolo- open-ended Mole Day-related assignment. Instead of gize to any teacher I may have annoyed for these very baking a cake or some other vaguely related project, reasons.) Claire Abdo/STAMPEDE Krishnan and I laid down absolute bars about chem- istry over A$AP Rocky’s beat, “Celebration.” People always ask me why I like classical music Classi-cool: Playing classical music on my viola (it’s not a violin) allows me to express myself and has in the first place. Classical music gives me an outlet changed my life for the better in so many ways. Lyrics like “Call me Mr. Exothermic ‘cuz you know to express my emotions in a way that can’t be done I’m hot” quickly captured the attention of my fellow with words. Composers pour their hearts and souls experience and share those stories with others, both which, in telling the story of the French invasion of students. With a music video to accompany the fire into their music, and I find that I can feel every bit of as a listener and as a musician. Russia, calls for actual cannon fire. Sixteen times. track, I soon realized I had a future ahead of me in sorrow, passion or joy that the composers are try- And sometimes, of course, I just love the music. Classical music has opened up countless opportu- educational rapping. And thus, the career of “Educa- ing to convey. It is, in essence, a language of unto Grieg’s “In the Hall of the Mountain King” is one of my nities for me. I’ve made many friends through the Ka- tional Brian Taggett” was launched. itself, helping to communicate ideas and emotions favorites; I once found myself dancing to it backstage lamazoo Junior Symphony Orchestra and the school Rather than rapping about misogynistic topics across linguistic and cultural barriers. Every musician during a concert along with several friends and the chamber orchestra. I’m helping students at Woods like several mainstream rappers, Educational Brian – including myself – can interpret these in her own mayor of Kalamazoo. Nielsen’s “Aladdin Suite” and Lake Elementary learn how to play in an orchestra for Taggett rhymed words that related with the curricu- way, relate them to her own emotions and develop Dello Joio’s “Finale” from “Variations, Chaconne, and the first time. I’ve performed a solo piano concerto lum. a personal connection to every piece. Modern artists Finale” for orchestra are also great fun to listen to and with a professional orchestra for 1,500 people in one My career was furthered in Mr. Carrow’s Honors just can’t provide that when they’re too busy singing tons of fun to play. (By the way, I play the viola, not of the best concert halls in Kalamazoo. I’ve even gone Biology course in which I not only released a hit sin- about butts and heartbreak. the violin. There is a difference.) on tour with my youth orchestra and played for thou- gle that raps over a Gucci Mane beat under the new It takes a lot of concentration to comprehend In another of my favorites, “The Planets”, Gustav sands of people in four cities across China. title, “Bio Lemonade,” but I dropped a mixtape com- classical music. Not only do you have to pick out and Holst wrote a movement for every planet of the solar The world of classical music has enriched my life plete with eight biology-related songs. follow the melody amongst a myriad of parts, but you system except for Earth and Pluto, mostly because in so many ways, and not just because of the music. It The mixtape entailed months of production and have to work to understand the context and emotion Pluto hadn’t been discovered yet. Modern astronomy has helped me to express my emotions, develop rela- rhymed the nucleic acids “Adenine, Cytosine, Gua- behind the music. Many people just aren’t willing to worked out in his favor. I get to perform John Williams’ tionships, and experience things I never would have nine and Thymine” on far too many occasions. “Bio put in that kind of effort when they listen to music. “Star Wars Suite” with my youth orchestra in April. Be- dreamed of doing. It has introduced me to a world City,” which covered Tyga’s “Rack City,” was a listener Those who do are rewarded with extraordinary sto- ing the nerd that I am, I couldn’t help but freak out where we don’t take what we listen to for granted. It favorite as classmate Jed Forster made his rap debut ries and vivid scenes told solely through sound. What when I saw that my music says to play “with great has made me who I am. as a feature artist under his extremely creative rapper I truly love about classical music is that it allows me to force.” And then there’s Tchaikovsky’s “1812 Overture”, Can’t say I’m a dork for loving that. name, “Jed.” Throughout the remainder of that year-long class, Mr. Carrow and I often engaged in rap battles. Believe it or not, my brief experience as an educational rap- per did not stand a chance against the extraordinary Spring break has become a status symbol freestyling Mr. Carrow. Since I left that class, I have re- turned on multiple occasions to regain my dignity. To spring break has been transformed into yet another ten pictures a day of your fun in the Bahamas? Con- this day, I am yet to defeat him. status symbol. Our spring break activities should be stantly updating followers on spring break isn’t only My junior year, my repertoire expanded to IB 20th things we enjoy for ourselves with the intent of these annoying, but it detracts from one’s ability to fully en- Century History, in which I rapped a capella about memories belonging to us, not to every single person joy their vacation. the Russian Revolution. Educational Brian Taggett who follows us on Instagram and Twitter. The fact that informing others of what you’re up then rose to the top of the ranks of Portage Central What do I mean by that? Well with the to takes precedent over spending time with who rappers with complete knowledge of rhyming mol- introduc- tion of you’re actually with only emphasizes the fact that ecules, nucleic acids and the Bolsheviks. social me- dia into some high schoolers subconsciously see the way To this day, both Mr. Carrow and Mr. Taylor show BY BRIANNA MARTINEZ the lives of high they spend their spring break as a status symbol on my music videos in class to enrich the knowledge of schoolers, it’s be- display for all to see. It offers the ability for others to their students through my remarkable biology and Staff Writer come very easy see your popularity or wealth in relation to where chemistry verses. Mrs. Salisbury even requested me to brag. Popu- your break was spent and with who it was spent. to perform my Russian Revolution rap to this year’s IB Spring break: the one week a year that all high larity was already Spring break is for us to enjoy without the intru- 20th Century History class. schoolers look forward to after months and months something that teenag- ers cared sion of people miles away. So when you fly to Costa The rap industry has suffered from a widespread of tackling homework, preparing for speeches and about, but with this need to impress every single per- Rica or get on that cruise ship and head to Jamaica, negative perception, claiming that the lyrics are taking exams. It’s our pre-summer, and we all want to son on the internet, our adventures don’t belong to remember to power down your devices and just have solely misogynistic and lack any value whatsoever. make the most out of it to tide us over for the remain- us anymore. Now don’t get me wrong, I love posting fun with your fellow spring breakers. Why? Because However, naysayers who claim that one cannot rap der of our school year. But with the huge presence things on social media as much as the next person, all of the kids you left home shouldn’t and really don’t and pursue an education simultaneously have never of social media in our lives, what we do during our but is it really necessary to flood everyone’s feed with care all that much. searched “Educational Brian Taggett” on Soundcloud. March 20, 2015 focus 7 SAID videos are new news Med school: Do you have what it takes? BY BELLA PEDRAZA Staff Writer Med school A patient is rolled in by a team of doctors, barely breathing. She is suffering from cardiac arrest and enrollment quick decisions are made that could mean life or death for her. “Start CPR, give one mg of epinephrine IV!” a doctor said, barking orders to nurses and resi- Between 2010 and 2014, dents trying to save this patient’s life. They are given no more than a few minutes to enrollment in the perform procedures and give medicines needed to stop this woman from dying. In only a matter of nation’s medical schools Claire Abdo/STAMPEDE minutes she is stable. A wave of relief overcomes the has increased... Camera Rolling: Senior Alexander Block records Jori Gelbaugh and Nico Schuen for the next SAID doctors and nurses. This is the average day of a critical broadcast. care doctor, and if it sounds exciting to you or saving people’s lives interests you, you might want to con- BY KELSEE HA the series continues after their graduations. sider a future job in medicine. 78,748 2010 Staff Writer “I hope the videos continue because it’s a really Not all doctors experience this much excitement good way to spread information out to students and or face such emergencies. In fact, there are many dif- Jori Gelbaugh, Alexander Block and Dakotah Lilly parents,” Block said. ferent types of physicians with a large range of ex- are now streaming the Sports and Activities Infor- SAID videos are currently unfunded, but the crew 80,215 pertise. Primary care physicians are the doctors you 2011 mational Department (SAID) videos. SAID videos are plans on looking for ads to fund their traveling and see most regularly and serve to prevent a wide range broadcasts with features such as school news, on-air recording expenses. To get the word out about their of illnesses. Surgeons perform operations to treat dis- interviews, hard news and human interest stories. videos, they plan on being mentioned on the morn- eases and repair injuries. Specialists have expertise 81,9482012 Kent White, the activities director, runs the program ing announcements. related to specific diseases as well as specific organs SAID will be uploading weekly broadcasts onto “To promote the SAID videos, Jori, Dakota and and systems. the school website, and they will be archived on the myself will be advertising on social media,” Block said. Some high school students aspire to become one Portage Central YouTube channel. Each broadcast Block will post updates on his Twitter account, @Alex- of these types of doctors someday, including sopho- 83,391 will be approximately three to six minutes. Block1. more Aliya Patel, who aims to practice dermatology. 2013 SAID videos cover a wide range of topics. They The crew for the videos is Gelbaugh, the reporter; “I really like science and I really like math and I re- plan on streaming on-air interviews, sporting events Lilly, the cameraman; Block, the producer; and White. ally like helping people, so I thought that would be and more school news. They will also be covering They are working with a one-week production time. 85,260 a great mixture of everything I’m involved in,” Patel 2014 hard news stories outside of the school. They only have a short seven-day period to decide said. The three crew members collaborate after school their coverage, record the footage, edit the videos Patel is already preparing for medical school by Source: Association of American Medical Colleges to plan for upcoming videos. The hardest part of and post the broadcast. pushing herself in subjects like math and science. Because of the limited staffing and time, it can making the videos, according to senior producer She is currently enrolled in KAMSC which helps her dents trying to be accepted into medical school, the sometimes be challenging to think of weekly sub- Alexander Block, is meeting deadlines and working learn how to organize her time and handle a more AAMC recommends taking challenging classes to jects of interest. Block expressed that if anyone has different hours. challenging curriculum. Like many other students, prepare you for what’s ahead. suggestions or questions, to please contact one of Although the three students assisting with the Patel is worried about what is in store for her future The challenge that does not require grades, tests the crew members assisting with the SAID videos. SAID videos are all upperclassmen, they are hoping of becoming a doctor. or school is the cost of medical school. The average “The thing that worries me most is trying to put annual tuition of medical school for in-state residents yourself as the most unique and most-well rounded is $31,783. For non-state residents it is $55,294. Loans, Accomplished skater takes the ice person because everyone is unique, but you need to scholarships and grants are available to students who make yourself the most unique person out of every- seek a future in medical school. one,” Patel said. Garland Yu, a first-year student at the Western BY OLIVIA OLES Patel recognizes that there are many students vy- Michigan University Homer Stryker School of Medi- Staff Writer ing for a spot in a medical school and are trying to cine, faced many challenges when preparing for outshine each other in the extremely competitive en- medical school. She closes her eyes and jogs in place, vironment. According to the Association of American “For me it was learning to have the endurance to imagining the next few minutes with a Medical Colleges (AAMC) only 20,055 out of 690,281 keep pursuing it,” Yu said. perfect skate. applicants actually made it to medical school in 2013, Yu advises students to volunteer and explore the Junior Sophie Cucci has qualified for in the U.S. medical community. He warns not to go outside re- the Solo Ice Dance Nationals for the past The AAMC states the many things are required quired classes just to improve your chances of being four years. Three out of the four years to apply to medical school. This includes one year of accepted, but to do it because you enjoy it. she has excelled to the championship biology, one year of physics, one year of English, two “I feel like the other people I applied with were sit- round earning her seventh, sixth and years of chemistry, which can be completed in high ting in positions where they were doing extra things fifth placements. school and to take the MCAT, a standardized test. to put it on their resume, not because they enjoy it,” To qualify for nationals the individual The path to becoming a doctor is long and ardu- Yu said. “I think a lot of the people who actually get competition scores for the entire season ous with many years of education and sacrifice. To be- into schools are passionate about something, so they have to be nearly perfect. The 18 best gin you must complete four years of undergraduate can talk about it in interviews with enthusiasm, not skaters in the nation are allowed to com- studies, then four years of medical school and three just list off what they studied.” pete in Colorado Springs, Colo. at the to eight years of training in a specific specialty area, Dr. John Fleming, an Internal Medicine resident at Broadmoor Skating Arena. better known as residency. Bronson Methodist Hospital, chose to be a doctor af- Skating takes up most of her time There are several ways to improve your chances ter originally studying biology.He is currently enjoy- with an hour and a half before school, of getting into medical school even as a highschool- ing applying his knowledge and skills from medical two hours after school each day and four Courtesy of Nikki Czuhajewski er. Shadowing a doctor gives you insight into the school into actual patients and situations. hours each weekend. She also takes bal- On Ice: Sophie Cucci executes her split jump during her everyday life of a doctor. You have the opportunity After residency, Fleming is excited to become let classes and strength conditioning classes Copacabana long ice dance program in competition to watch and see if this is the career you would like independent and take what he’s learning to helping to consistently improve her skating ability. to pursue. Volunteer work is another option which is people. “I’ve had to make so many sacrifices to make this Now she is looking forward to this years competi- open to high schoolers and is offered at nearby hos- “Being a physician would satisfy my scientific in- happen including my sleep schedule and not being tion season and is competing on the Senior Western pitals like Bronson. terests and my desire to help people.”Fleming said. able to attend school events or hang out with my University Synchronized Skating Team where she Strong foundations of math and science will also “It’s really satisfying when you feel that you’ve friends as much,” Cucci said, “But it’s really all worth competed in Rhode Island at the Synchronized Skat- help your chances. With the competitiveness of stu- done something worthwhile for somebody.” it in the end.” ing Nationals placing tenth in late February. 8 focus March 20, 2015 Hosts travel to Denmark What type of nerd are you? BY JORI GELBAUGH How do you face Staff Writer challenges?

Many students will be traveling this spring break, but few will get the opportunity to travel across the world to Denmark. Seniors Colin Campbell, Ian Epkey, Jed Forster, Baylee Kinkade, Carly Pratt and Tim Walsh will travel with Chuck Schira to Denmark to visit the exchange students they hosted in the fall Do. Do not. Try. and to learn about Danish culture. “The Denmark trip has been my favorite travel Claire Abdo/STAMPEDE opportunity thus far, and I am amazed that my high Looking Back: The Denmark exchange students school is what made it possible for me to go,” alumni enjoy a football game last fall. Rachel Weber said, who took the trip last year. “At MSU, I have talked to many students about it and I foreign country.” Automatic fail! think they are also surprised that I took that trip dur- They will have to adjust to the time change in Why were you up Well, you’re a until 3 a.m.? pessimist. “Do or do not. ing high school since studying abroad is something Copenhagen as well as the transportation differ- There is no try.” most do not do until college.” ences; few people drive cars and the majority of The seniors will leave Thursday March 26 and transportation is done by bike. return two weeks later. They will travel first to “I am always concerned with the health and Copenhagen, the capital of Denmark where they safety of the people I travel with,” said Schira. “There will stay at hotels for several days to learn about the is always a concern that someone will step off a curb city’s history. wrong and twist their ankle, get excited looking at Getting back These seniors, along with others, hosted 14 something and fall down some steps.” Playing “Super Reading “Harry Watching Doing late from a exchange students from Denmark in the fall. The majority of the trip will be spent in Aalborg, Smash Bros.” Potter.” Netflix. homework. concert. Most of the seniors talk to their foreign friends a large city in Denmark. After Copenhagen, the at least once or twice a month through Facebook, students will travel by train to Aalborg and stay with but will get the opportunity to stay with them in host families while learning about the education in a Denmark. cultural immersion in which they will attend school “It’ll be a good cultural experience. I’ll learn a with their hosts. lot and I get to see the people that were over here,” As the trip approaches, Schira’s main hope for said Forester. “I’m very excited about experiencing the trip is that the students will further their appre- Which game What’s your What show IB procrasti- a foreign culture and learning about how they live. ciation of international travel while experiencing the are you more biggest pet do you binge nating? For The only thing I’m worried about is getting lost in a culture of another part of the world. excited for? peeve? watch? shame. Sadies sparks theme debate Tumblr being cat- “Uncharted egorized as porn on the “The Big Bang BY DAYTON JUDAY was that on one designated day, unmarried women “Doctor Who.” 4.” school filter. Theory.” Staff Writer could chase after bachelors hoping to catch them for marriage. Sadie Hawkins has been around at Portage Word limits on English There’s no need to fear if you still don’t have a Central for an estimated 15 years. Student Council The new papers. date for Sadies; girls, you still have time to ask out representatives discuss the dance, along with con- “Call of Duty.” Which that special someone tonight! Girls still looking for sidering student recommendation, then a decision is a date have until tomorrow night when the dance Doctor did made between them. People call- you start begins. Sadies hasn’t been considered an annual dance ing “pieces” “songs” with? The Sadie Hawkins dance idea originated from just yet but it has been occurring more over the past when they don’t have a comic strip in the 1930s. In this comic, the idea few years according to Student Council Adviser Mark words. Sutherland. Student Council asks the students to vote a few weeks before the dance to decide on what theme Christopher David will be assigned to the dance. This allows for the Eccleston. Tennant. students to have some voice in the decision. “Black light” is this year’s theme and has been the theme for the past few years. Previous themes have included costumes and semi-formal. “I think that black light gets votes because it cre- ates such an unusual atmosphere,” Sutherland said. Rule #1: Some students want to add variations to the Don’t Skip themes of Sadies because the interest in black light Nine. has died down. You’re a music “I”d like to see something different than black nerd. light every time, just maybe change it up a little bit,” Student Council representative Devin Jaqua said. All money collected from the dance goes straight towards Student Council. Currently, the You’re a ticket prices are $10. Facepaint will also be available pop culture You’re a video You’re a book nerd. at the dance for $3. nerd. You’re a fake nerd. Preston Boshoven/INSTAGRAM The dance will be tomorrow from 8 to 11 p.m. in game nerd. Tough luck. the Commons. Students must bring an I.D. to get in. Sadies?: Junior Preston Boshoven asks senior Kylee Shuckerow to be his date to the Sadies created by Shawna Huang and Malak Ghazal dance. March 20, 2015 focus 9 Brian Taggett experiences a Kalamazoo Christian school day

BY BRIAN TAGGETT the bureaucratic organization of our state-funded Inn pizza was served, sugary high school. View Editor pop was consumed and Third hour: With an uninformed, pre-existing America’s freedom reigned. assumption that Bible Class would consist of lectures Students are able to set-up Since the fall of 2002, I have attended Portage over New Testament verses, my experience in Mr. tables to bring awareness schools. Consistently exposed to the same style Lubber’s course was quite different. After a brief video to virtually anything. I sat at of schooling for 13 years, I never considered the that discussed and defined different types of believers, a foldable table with a sign differences between my educational experience the class began a group current event project that that read “Psychiatric Help and that of a religious-affiliated school. On Feb. 28, did not necessarily have to be related to the Christian 5 cents; The Doug Is In,” and I was given the opportunity to attend Kalamazoo faith. received advice on how to Christian for a day to experience the differences Fourth hour: While our school announcements fit-in at K-Christian from Courtesy of Jimmy Dirksen first-hand. consistently start with Mr. Frink’s emphatic “Gooooood senior Doug Hollett. K-Christian Kind of Day: Left: Boom! A turtle. Right: Brian with senior Steve K-Christian senior Steve Niewoonder, who has Morning Mustangs!” the announcements at K- Sixth Hour: Instead of a Niewoonder. been engaged in religiously-affiliated schooling Christian began with a Bible verse. Similarly, the an- conventional gym class, the to fully experience a day as a Comet and attended since the age of four and a personal friend of mine, nouncements echoed over the speakers during fourth advanced physical education students at K-Christian the rivalry basketball game against Hackett Catho- offered to be my guide throughout the day. hour, which I spent with Niewoonder in his study hall. commute to the YMCA. After taking attendance near lic Prep. The student section, known as the “Party Midway through second hour: I met with Besides engaging in a debate over the outcome of a the check-in desk, students are able to go free through Zone,” was completely filled by the fourth quarter Niewoonder and fellow senior Jimmy Dirksen. We hypothetical basketball game between the Comets the facility. I myself participated in an intense game of of the women’s game. The men’s game was arrived at the school at midway through second and the Mustangs, the hour remained expectedly racquetball with senior Greg Harris, Tyler Meyer and preceded by a prayer led by K-Christian’s principal, hour. After a five minute tour of the entire school, uneventful. Jacob Cramer. an occurrence far different than anything in public Niewoonder, Dirksen and I entered Mr. Dyk’s Envi- Fifth hour: For fifth hour, I entered Mr. Jewett’s Seventh Hour: After commuting back to the high school. It was very refreshing to see an actively ronmental Science class. Scanning the classroom, AP English class. With a personalized, home-feeling school, I was reminded that I was in a religiously- affili- participating student section for basketball. I noticed that the back portion of the room was classroom and only 12 students, the class was the ated school when Mr. Potter’s sociology class began My experience at K-Christian exceeded my ex- sectioned off. Curiosity took the best of me and I most ideal setting to learn this subject. With the ever- with a prayer. The classroom felt very personalized pectations to say the least. While I anticipated an strode back there. Then boom, a tortoise! I quickly energetic Mr. Jewett facilitating a recreation of Act with posters and hundreds of books lining the overwhelming religious presence, the occasional found out that two tortoises lived in his classroom. V Scene II of “Hamlet” with makeshift props, I found classroom walls. The relaxed feel of the class felt very prayers and Bible verses were the only subtle The teacher showed me the countless amount of myself completely enamored by this method of teach- similar to a Mr. Chambers class. Senior Cole VanOster- reminders of the school’s affiliation during my day. animals ranging from painted turtles to week-old ing Shakespeare to a small class. baan, who specifically requested to be mentioned in While Portage Central’s flat-screen televisions and Quail birds that made the classroom home. I then Lunch: The federal guidelines involving in-school this story, showed me his 30,000 word novel he wrote extensive resources are significant, Kalamazoo fantasized an entire ecosystem like the one in Mr. food that Portage Central strictly follows is non-exis- for a past project that received a B- grade. Christian’s small classroom setting and lack of Dyk’s class existing in one of our science classes, tent at K- Christian and other private schools. Cottage After School: That night, I returned to K- Christian bureaucracy made my day a refreshing change. but realized it would be anything but feasible with

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To specific drop weight, start off the weekend, Science Olympiad students and the goal is to put tremendous time, work and effort into Science calculate the drop Olympiad. height to get the Science Olympiad team consists of 15 students plate as close to the competing in a series of 23 events, usually in three ground as possible or four events each. These events include biology, without touching it. physics, chemistry, earth science and engineering. According to Dale Freshman Frank Zlomek is an active participant Freeland, the adviser in Science Olympiad. of Science Olympiad, “I like it because it’s a real world experience of the team participates building and engineering things, and then applying in four invitational them into real life as well as the classroom,” Zlomek contests before the said. regional finals on As of right now, Science Olympiad is working on March 28 at Western an event called Mission Possible. Zlomek’s current Michigan University. project is a Rube Goldberg Machine, or a chain reac- If they finish in the tion device that utilizes golf balls. top three at that “I drop a golf ball in it to start it, it closes, competition, they switches, turns on motors, raises other golf balls, and will be given the op- sets them on paths,” Zlomek said. portunity to go to the At the end of the machine, the ball sets the state finals on May buzzer off. This machine transfers energy from 2 at Michigan State mechanical to electrical and electrical to thermal to University. move the golf balls in the device. Hastings, Ham- Shawna Huang/STAMPEDE In team competition, the Science Olympiad team ilton and Portage Going for Gold: The Science Olympiad team sits in the bleachers, waiting to be called up for their medals. Recently, the team finished in sixth place at West Ottawa on Jan. 24, Central are usu- finished with 15 medal finishes which include two first-place medals. The team hopes to go to the state finals on May 2. with 12 students winning individual medals. On Feb. ally the top three 7, they finished in fourth place with a similar amount teams in regionals. “It’s enjoyable to work with students and see portion of those hours can be at home on the Inter- of medal finishers at Thornapple Kellogg High However, most years, where we can go this year, with this group, and see net, studying for the next competition. School. At the most recent event on Feb. 28, the only two teams go to the state competition, so the how we get different people into different contests,” “Competitors must be willing to work hard for team finished sixth overall with 15 medal finishes tournament is very competitive between those three Freeland added. “Also [I like] to see the improvement long periods of time because it takes a lot of prepa- at Allendale, including two first-place finishes in schools. that we make during the year.” ration and work,” Zlomek said. Anatomy and Physiology, and Forensics. “It’s very competitive. We compete against a lot Freeland suggests that students spend at least Future competitions will determine if the team’s Another project Zlomek and others are working of teams that place at nationals, so it’s exciting when six hours per week practicing in the physics lab. A long hours spent in the physics lab on Friday nights on is Bungee Drop. This project involves an elastic we do well,” Zlomek said. have paid off. Coding club creates apps Orchestra makes spring plans BY ZACH FRANKS BY OLIVIA OLES grants given to the winning team’s school. The primary focuses of this club are to invite Staff Writer Staff Writer students to explore and learn programming through advanced technological training. This will help pro- Big things are happening With the growth of smartphone technology, vide future skills for possible employment. in orchestra in the next couple app development is on the rise. The new Computer “My hope is that students learn something new, months. The spring concert Programing and App Development club strives to work together, craft new friendships and learn is coming up on May 14, and create a better understanding of modern technol- how to think critically and solve any problem they the musicians are very busy ogy through collective sharing of ideas between encounter with the resources available to them,” club preparing for it. To help them students. leader and teacher Dan Meyers said. New this semester, meetings prepare professional musicians will be held every Thursday after came in after school on March school until 4 p.m. The club plans 18 and held workshops for any on creating apps and publish- orchestra students interested ing them on the App Store for in improving their skills. The Red Sea Pedestrians, purchase. The use of the money Claire Abdo/STAMPEDE from the apps will be used on a group of professional musi- rewards for members. cians, will run the workshops in Ready To Play: Orchestra players focus on the sheet of music in “[I like] learning new things March. This includes musicians front of them. Orchestra will have a concert in May. and coding is about solving Audrey Lipsey, Lisa Coons and puzzles,” junior Kalyana Bobba Sarah Hedlund. The workshop The concert in May will contain two full or- said. will have three different skill areas that a student chestra classical pieces. Originally, five were to be Students will also have the can work on. These include improvisation, composi- played but the number was cut down to focus on benefit of competing in the Ve- tion and fiddle music. perfecting the two pieces. Separate string orchestra rizon Innovative App Challenge This will be the first workshop ever for all fresh- pieces and chamber orchestra pieces will also be this upcoming fall. Dividing into man orchestra members. performed along with two solo pieces by seniors teams, the best student app Dakotah Lilly/STAMPEDE “I’m pretty excited, I’ve heard stuff about it but Andrew Burch and Ian Chu. They are preparing ideas will result in prizes such Coding at work: Club members work on creating codes for the I’ve never actually done one,” freshman Liya Jin said. by working on small chunks of the pieces every as personal Galaxy tablets and club. These codes will be used for creating apps to fund the club. “I think it will help improve both my skills and the day and by having the different sections practice orchestra’s.” separately. March 20, 2015 vibe 11 from Reviews the Stampede One of our features, a ‘Kingsman’ can’t make up its mind crossword about teachers! 1 “Kingsman” is a movie torn between two halves. On one hand, it tries to be a Bond film and have a serious plot, while on the other, we have a campy and comedic style. Unfortunately the movie is weighed down by 2

the serious side in trying too hard with the villain. 3 4 A ridiculous wardrobe and an annoying lisp do quite a bit to harm an already psychopathic character. While the premise of the villain using his money to make his technology ubiquitous and using that to cause chaos is interesting, it’s also a tired storyline that’s been done plenty of times. 5 6 That’s the ultimate problem with this movie, it plays it incredibly safe. It’s funny at times, but when it gets too serious, or when you see what’ll happen next from a mile away, it’s hard to enjoy. Fans of old spy movies 7 8 or the genre as a whole may find something likeable here, but otherwise, don’t see it in theatres. 9

-REVIEWED BY DAKOTAH LILLY 10

11 ‘Mosquitoland’ glows across the young adult genre 12

The Young Adult genre has gone bland. Plots follow the typical equation of girl meets boy in a teenage- 13 14 angst-prone situation but love conquers all and they end up happy. 15 16 Like a daisy found amongst weeds, “Mosquitoland” glows across the field of the genre. This is not a lovey dovey story or a dystopian

knock off of the “Hunger Games.” This book is real life, and requires a 17 lot more emotional war-paint to get through. After an ugly divorce between her parents, Mary Iris Malone (Mim) 18 and her father move to Mississippi. But when Mim hears of her mother 19 being hospitalized, she steals her step-mother’s emergency cash and ventures off on a 947 mile expedition to visit her in Cleveland. Compare it to a teenage odyssey, Mim faces death, perverts and DOWN psychopaths. While there’s hope and determination in Mim’s eyes, 20 1. This coach is often known for winning, especially there’s also fear. As things take a turn for the worst, she meets a when it comes to swimming. strange and lovable band of outcasts that help her smooth out the 2. When thinking about college, don’t give yourself sharp edges and find what is left of her mom. anxiety, join this teacher in National Honor Society. As compared to an Augustus Waters, Mim may be the most 3. If you’re in her class you will be succeeding, she is human-like character I’ve ever read. She’s real and tangible. She’s not also the coach for PC Cheerleading. 4. Need some lumber? He knows where to go, he’s too wise for her age, she makes mistakes, has extremely embarrassing also the teacher with the sickest flow. moments, and gets frustrated easily, like a teenager should, making 6. He’s great at the game of knowing your name. it easy for the audience to connect with her. David Arnold’s writing is 7. This one’s a teacher and that job is fitting, most of like nothing I’ve ever read before. He’s able to take us to adolescent Image via davidarnoldbooks.com the time she is doing some knitting. issues as dark as divorce, substance abuse, depression, rape, and 8. If you’re talking about English, she’s no newbie, teenage homelessness, and then grabs our emotional reins right back for some whimsical comedic scene or and when you turn in your paper, don’t leave a outlandish philosophical dialogue. He depicts adolescence as something like “Alice in Wonderland”: Fantasti- single floobie. cal in ways, dark and terrifying in others, and yet always hopeful and beautiful. 13. During fourth hour you heard the bell rang, then Grab the war-paint, “Mosquitoland” is definitely not something to miss. over the speaker he said, “Good morning, Mustangs!” 16. If you want to learn chemistry, go to his room, sometimes he goes by Cheminem or ninja bunny of -REVIEWED BY MALAK GHAZAL doom. 18. Although some may think he’s a bit of a slacker, he guards the school as the hallway linebacker. If you’re reading this review it’s too late

On the first track off Drake’s surprise mixtape “If You’re Reading This It’s Too Late” he asserts himself in the role of one of hip-hop’s most important persons. Calling himself a legend is no exaggeration as the Billboard ACROSS charts can attest. 5. When it comes to physics, it’s his life that he pledges, and when you do your work make sure to have Every song off Drake’s 17 track mixtape managed to make the R&B/Hip-Hop chart and he also managed sketches. to tie The Beatles in the all time record for most songs on the Hot 100 with a whopping 14. 9. If you’re in her class, you’re bound to succeed, she also assists with the Central Stampede. Drake is making history in a mere few weeks after the release of a mixtape that received no extensive 10. When it comes to econ, he’s winning the race, and be sure to see him when you need a phone case. marketing campaign or promotion, and with good reason. “If You’re Reading This” features some of Drizzy’s 11. This one loves gardening, you may have heard, she has a little friend, Walter the Bird. most captivating songs to the date. The beats are fresh and provide a high level of intensity with which Drake 12. This one teaches about our state, if you could haul out those packets, that’d be great. flows well with. 14. About this teacher, you may have heard, he loves “Star Wars” and I guess he’s a nerd. The mixtape serves as an opportunity for experimentation with a number of styles. Perhaps the most ap- 15. Psychology is all that matters, his best friend is Jason Badders. 17. If you’re looking for him, he’ll be next to a shrub, when he’s helping instruct enviromental club. parent aspect in this regard is the vocals throughout the mixtape. Moments of bold and aggressive rapping 19. If he teaches you chemistry, you’re sure to advance, he also does a funny mole day dance. are followed with lonely introspective singing, all of which fit well in their place on the mixtape. 20. In his class you may use a ruler, and in his younger days he looked like Ferris Bueller. Drake has announced that his next full length album, “Views From the 6,” will also be coming out this year, and if the excellent mixtape is any indication of what is to come, 2015 is certain to be an exceptional year for hip-hop.

-REVIEWED BY DEVON WILSON Ratings Key average

terrible very good

11. LaVasseur 12. Engels 13. Frink 14. Czuk 15. Lancaster 16. Carrow 17. Lane 18. LaRoy 19. Taylor 20. Wytko Wytko 20. Taylor 19. LaRoy 18. Lane 17. Carrow 16. Lancaster 15. Czuk 14. Frink 13. Engels 12. LaVasseur 11. very bad incredible Rayle 10. Braford 9. Mills 8. Johnson 7. Alburtus 6. Freeland 5. Badders 4. Eichstaedt 3. Baker 2. Schafer 1. 12 vibe Mar. 20, 2015 Elijah Olson moves forward with his music BY DEVON WILSON Since then, Olson has learned to play a multi- Vibe Editor tude of instruments ranging from the cello to the drum set, all of which were self taught aside from the piano. His diverse skill set leads to a broad Blue O’Dells is the solo project of junior Elijah range of influences and styles found in his music. Olson. He has been recording under the name for “Blue O’Dells is slightly more weird and less a number of years and is beginning to release his pop than other stuff I write. It’s more ambitious finished work online. and experimental. It’s sort of a psychedelic art rock His first full length album as Blue O’Dells was thing,” Olson said. released on March 4th via Olson’s bandcamp page. Those who have managed to hear Olson’s music The project began in middle school for Olson first hand can speak on how much talent shows and in it’s initial stage it was a two piece band, through his songs. One student who has not only consisting of Olson and a close friend. heard Olson’s music, but also worked with him a “We wanted to make the strangest band ever,” number of times is junior Adam Lutz. Olson said. “Blue O’Dells was the strangest name “Working with Elijah is just so easy,” Lutz said. I could come up with for us, but then he moved “His musicianship makes it easy to connect and away and it became a solo project. Although it was have a cohesive sound really quickly. He knows so basically already a solo project since he didn’t play much about music in all aspects.” any instruments.” Olson’s first full length album, “How To Properly Olson has been working with music since the Eat Crayons,” was recorded between July and Au- age of five when his mother signed him up for gust of 2014 and Olson described the recording ex- piano lessons, despite his longing to learn guitar perience as an intense several weeks during which instead. However, that Xmas she bought him his Devon Wilson/STAMPEDE he would record three to four songs per week. first guitar. Portage Central’s Best Secret Songwriter: Junior Elijah Olson writes songs on his acoustic guitar. As for the writing process, Olson explained that “It was a really crummy guitar with nylon strings with this album he had a story in mind and wrote but it started me on my journey to becoming the songs that went together to tell a narrative. The musician I am today,” Olson said. says it has always been a part of his life. endless R.E.M. CD’s and that influenced me to really album can be heard at blueodells.bandcamp.com Olson has always found interest with music and “When I was about five, my parents would play love music,” Olson said. Shows to binge watch Old technology comes back BY SHARWARI SALVI bit of value,” Hartman said. “The fact that you have to BY LUCY FORSTER involve heavy drama. The full series, including eight Staff Writer search for something, like an album that you want that you might not find for years, you kind of just News Editor seasons, is available on Netflix. ‘Law and Order: Special Victims Unit’ Walking into a quiet record shop, the first thing keep looking, it has that treasure hunt aspect. When ‘Parks and Recreation’ Currently in it’s 16th season on NBC, “Law and one may notice are the rows upon rows of vinyl you go into a record store you don’t know exactly “Parks and Recreation” is a television program Order: Special Victims Unit” is a crime and detective encased in various and unique cover art. Some what you’re going to find.” about the inner workings of the parks department in show about special groups of victims, hence the of the vinyl is vintage, some modern, some large, People purchase instant film cameras for the fictional Pawnee, Indiana. It is filmed in a mocku- name. Detective Olivia Benson and her new partner some small. Unlike any music shop in our modern same unique characteristics. Junior Kirstin Snook is mentary style, similar to “The Office”. Leslie Knope Nick Amaro along with detective Odafin Tutuola day, some say that a record shop is like a museum, among the many to join this revival, as she recently has a passion for her city, and she lives to help others and his partner Amanda Rollins investigate crimes full of preserved history from the past decades, and purchased an instant film camera. by working for the parks department. Along with involving sexually based offenses, children and recreations of the modern world. “I thought it was really cool, and I like the way her best friend Ann Perkins, Leslie is on a mission to cases out of the ordinary, which is a huge draw for According to Digital Music News, a news and that the pictures look,” Snook said. “They just have better Pawnee. The six seasons available on Netflix the audience. The difference in cases that the show media company that reports information of the that old fashioned, antique look.” introduce the audience to numerous new cast investigates is so different from other crimes shows music industry, the purchase of vinyl has increased The price of vinyl, record players and instant members and story lines. The interactions between which draws an audience in. Seasons 13, 14 and 15 by the millions in the last few years. Sean Hartman, film cameras can vary, some products cost less than the staff members of the parks department is what are available for streaming on Netflix. the manager at Satellite Records, said he observed modern technology. At Satellite Records, the price really makes the show. Between the personality’s of ‘Gossip Girl’ the purchase of vinyl and record playing equipment of vinyl ranges from 50 cents to around $20 for new Tom, Ron and April, the show is sure to appeal to a Combining regular high school drama with the began to revive back in 2006 from the fall in the mid- vinyl, and can reach up to a $100 on rare occasions, wide audience. struggles of being a teen on the Upper East Side, 1980s. Satellite Records, one of the biggest record according to Hartman. The store’s used record play- ‘The Office’ “Gossip Girl” is a show for all genders and ages. shops in Kalamazoo, holds over 10,000 vinyl along ing equipment ranges from $50-80. Between Dwight and Jim’s crazy antics, Angela’s Serena Vanderwoodsen along with best friend Blaire with thousands of 45s, as well as cassettes, record To some people, record shopping is an adventure obsession for cats, Andy’s love for Cornell and Waldorff, show you the real struggles of the world, equipment and movies. by itself. What makes vinyl shopping so enjoyable is Michael’s dysfunctional management skills, “The deciding what designer gown to wear to a gala. The comeback of old technology has grown over scent and ambiance of the vinyl shops in addition Office” will have you constantly laughing. Although However, drama doesn’t come without boys. Chuck the past several years. People are beginning to buy to the aesthetic cover art. Junior Lyvia Osterstock sometimes uncomfortable, the humor portrayed in Bass, Dan Humphries and Nate Archibald teach us vinyl, record players and even instant film cameras owns and actively uses her Crosley turntable and “The Office” is out of the ordinary. Michael Scott is about choosing the right rich, gorgeous, Upper such as the famed Polaroid camera. From taking especially enjoys vinyl shopping. the manager of Dunder Mifflin Paper Company, but East Side girl to take to their next charity event. photo shoots, using such equipment in a photogra- “I like looking through them and seeing the cool he is what you would call an unconventional boss. Although somewhat unrealistic, “Gossip Girl” allows phy class or a die-hard interest, people have started album art,” Osterstock said. “Even though you’re not The full series, including nine seasons, available on its audience to escape the real world for a while and to use these old technologies for unique reasons. supposed to judge stuff by its cover, if it has cool Netflix takes you through numerous love stories, enter the world of an Upper East Sider. The show is “It’s become more popular because of social album art it makes you want to listen to it.” crazy pranks and the abnormality of the Scranton available in its entirety on Netflix. media, and people use it for stylistic purposes, like The trend of instant film cameras, record play- branch of Dunder Mifflin Paper Company. ‘One Tree Hill’ on their blogs,” junior Kryzia Salinas said. Salina is ers and vinyl consumption has expanded to a ‘That 70’s Show’ “One Tree Hill” is yet another teen drama, how- an owner and active user of the the Fujifilm Instax wider range of demographics. Record players and Point Place, Wisconsin. Eric Forman’s basement. ever, it does not disappoint. While the show is about Mini 8. instant film cameras have reached out to modern- May 17, 1976. “That 70’s Show” is about growing up teens, the main activity of the show is basketball, so As the crowd of people that purchase this once influenced teenagers and college students. Many in the 70’s, as displayed by a group of six friends. boys may also find it to be interesting. The drama outdated technology grows, more people begin to modern artists produce music that is made into and From watching television, arguing about Jackie, or ranges from love, sports and family. Dan Scott is a realize the unique characteristics of this old technol- sold on vinyl. Likewise, as Polaroid cameras have ingesting illegal substances, a majority of this group basketball legend in the town of Tree Hill, and he has ogy, and what sets it apart from the technologically began reproduction by The Impossible Project since of friends social gatherings occur in Eric Forman’s two sons to carry on the legacy. However, he only advanced world. 2008, many companies have been releasing a variety basement. Eric, Kelso, Hyde and Fez are constantly supports one. “One Tree Hill” explores the tensions “There’s a lot of people that make the argu- of different instant film cameras and film. The Impos- getting into some sort of trouble with Eric’s dad, between mixed families while still keeping true ment that vinyl sounds a lot better than CD or other sible Project is a private company that began selling Red. The girls of the group, Donna and Jackie, add to a teen drama. There are many ups and downs formats, that keep a lot of people around, and the and reproducing old Polaroid cameras and hardware elements of love and drama to the show. However, between the characters which include love and other end of it is just having something that’s col- in Polaroid’s old factory. Companies with interest overall the show is a traditional sitcom that does not friendships. The full series is available on Netflix. lectible and also something that’s fragile adds a little from youths are what’s keeping these artifacts alive. March 20, 2015 sports 13 Hockey roster rules cause local debate

BY JARED LUTZ Sports Editor Claire Abdo/STAMPEDE As a two-year captain of the varsity hockey team, Champions: The 2008-2009 women’s soccer team after their state championship victory following an undefeated season. it is my job to build a unified character in my team. There is one common ingredient that all champion- ship players and coaches talk about: team unity. In Coaches find common tool to success movies like “Miracle” and “Glory Road”, champions BY JARED LUTZ year in his first state championship and Miss Soc- focused along the way,” Militzer said. “In each case are made through a firmly grounded brotherhood amongst the ranks. The captains and I worked for Sports Editor cer, awarded to the top player in the state, winner we knew we had the players that were capable of Paige Wester in her senior year in his second. Both leading us to a state championship.” five months in order to build a unified team. The of his championship teams were the only unde- Current swimming coach Jim Schafer was team that was selected in the fall is the team that we According to championship coaches at Portage feated teams in the state. nominated as the women’s swimming coach of the wanted to move into playoffs with. That is the team Central, there are two common ingredients in the Norman specifically remembers the determina- year in 2013 and led the women’s swimming team that worked to go 12-0 in conference in the regular success of a team: leadership and team unity. tion that both of his championship teams had. to a state runner-up finish in 2013. season and to make it to the regional championship There have been 19 appearances at the state “Our teams never gave up as we had tourna- “Obviously talent is a big part of a champion- game on Saturday, March 7. championship game at Portage Central, nine of ment experience from the previous year,” Norman ship caliber team,” Schafer said. “Outside of that, Portage Northern’s coaching staff decided to add which have resulted in state championships. Two said. “We remembered the sad endings mostly leadership and chemistry are really important.” four players from the West Michigan Hounds team to of those championships and three appearances on the long bus rides home. Overcoming the “You have to have the talent to be competi- its playoff roster. According to MHSAA regulations, belong to the women’s soccer team under coach unknown concerns was important.” tive at that level but its the attitude, what you’re this is legal. The roster deadline is in early February Pat Norman, who coached from 1986 to 2014. Peter Militzer, a two time men’s tennis coach going to do with that talent everyday,” Schafer and as long as the travel season is over by the start “Mustang teams commonly have huge ‘hearts’ of the year in 2000 and 2004, led the men’s tennis said. “The last couple years on the girl’s team, we of state playoffs, those travel hockey players are and play for their teammates,” Norman said. program to two state championships in 2001 and have had a good combination of strong talent and eligible to play in high school hockey state playoffs. In 29 years at Portage Central, Norman only 2007. strong leadership. If you think you have the talent The decision by Portage Northern’s head coach JD coached one losing season. Norman was nomi- Outside of determination, the one word that to be at that level, the missing ingredient is team Kalleward to bring AAA players onto their teams nated as the national coach of the year in 2000 Militzer used to describe both of his championship chemistry.” solely for state playoffs not only discredits the team and inducted into the Michigan Soccer Coaches teams, Militzer specifically remembers the leader- Other state championships include men’s bas- he selected five months ago at tryouts, but it also Hall of Fame in 2014. Norman coached Olympic ship and focus of both of those teams. ketball in 1932, men’s cross country in 1956 and hurt the guiding theme that creates winning teams, gold medalist Lindsay Tarpley in her sophomore “The captains and leaders kept the team women’s softball in 1977. unity. The day that Northern made the decision to bring on AAA players, I answered a call from my head coach, who asked if these actions on this team were appropriate for the environment for my team. Forster defines student-athlete success In agreeance, there was no reason that any players should be considered to play on our team for state BY NOLAN CARANCI playoffs. This decision was not only made on a team level but on a school administration level as well. Staff Writer All hockey players decide in the fall where they want to play: high school, AAA or any other hockey As senior Jed Forster’s Twitter bio reads, he has program. Both high school and AAA are respectable made one of the biggest accomplishments that an programs to play for, but those players should stick athlete can make in their high school career, according with their decisions. AAA players had the opportu- to senior Hunter Simino. Forster has recently been nity to play for high school and decided against it. recognized as a two sport academic all-state recipient Any coach’s decision to bring on AAA kids in baseball and football. discredits those who have worked for five months Between sports and school, there is not a lot of to earn a spot on the ice. With a drop of the hat, time. Forster seems to manage his time very well coaches are willing to sit his own players who tried between his success in athletics and academics. out, for players who decided against playing for that “I just manage my time well and get a lot of sup- high school program just months ago. port from my friends and family,” Forster said. At the professional level, coaches and players Each sport has its own requirements for receiv- are paid seven figures to win championships. The ing the award. For baseball, a player needs to have a purpose of high school hockey is to build morals, re- 3.5 GPA or above and be a good, well-rounded team spect, leadership and discipline. Pulling in AAA kids player based on the coach. Which based on Forster’s to play invalidates the morals that have been taught history in baseball and excellence in academics, those through hockey since Learn-to-Skate. requirements were met easily, making him a great The final result of Northern’s attempt to beat choice for this award. us in the playoffs by creating the Portage North- However for football, the requirements are much ern Hounds was failure. The AAA players were not more complicated. To receive this award in football, invested in the program or the high school game each team can only nominate one player. From there, like the players who worked for months to be there only 22 are chosen throughout the state. were. The AAA players hurt the chemistry and unity of the team. Between every intermission, we could Forster works as hard as he can on and off the field, Claire Abdo/STAMPEDE hear the players’ berating tones steaming out of which has resulted in a plaque recognizing his accom- All Smiles: Senior Jed Forster recieving his academic all-state award from head football coach Mick Northern’s locker room from ours just down the hall plishments. This award recognizes the athletes who Enders during the Feb. 3 home basketball game. goes the extra mile in the classroom. This has helped during our state playoff matchup on Mar. 3. Forster in ways that will make him very successful in people,” Forster said. “It just shows that you are well- is a great team player who could play any position. I have the utmost respect for Portage Northern. life, allowing him to go to the college of his choice. rounded when you do well in sports and keep your Of course being on the field isn’t the only thing that Before high school, I played with most of the hockey Forster still has not committed to a college yet, but his grades up at the same time.” matters. players on Northern’s team. The cross-town rivalry top two choices are University of Michigan and Purdue According to senior Hunter Simino, Forster has “Jed has easily earned the academic all -state is vigorous but respected. Coach JD will feel the University. done whatever he could do to help the team out. awards he received,” Simino said. “ He is always one of repercussions of this failed attempt at beating our “Colleges are always looking for well-rounded Simino, who played football with Forster, says that he the smartest athletes on the field.” program for years to come. 14 sports March 20, 2015 Remembering the first state championship team

BY BRIAN TAGGETT & NOLAN CARANCI View Editor and Staff Writer

On March 12, the men’s basketball team con- cluded their season with a 6-14 record. However, 82 years ago, the story of the men’s basketball team was a bit different. Outscoring opponents 922-287 in the course of the 1931-1932 season, the then named Portage Agricultural High School men’s basketball team dominated the Class D division with an undefeated season. Notable victories included a 38-1 victory over Scotts, an 83-6 beating of Delton Kellogg, an 86-14 triumphing of Schoolcraft and a 53-0 shutout against Richland. The team faced few difficulties on the course to the Jenison Fieldhouse in East Lansing, the host of the state championship game. While the team from a school just 10 years old dominated its opponents, the sport of basketball was far different than it is today. There was a jump ball after each basket scored, so theoretically, the opposing team may not even get a chance to have Claire Abdo/STAMPEDE the ball. According to those rules, the 53-0 win In Rememberance: The trophies from the 1932 state championship basketball team sit on the basketball court on March 11. against Richland makes a bit more sense. Contrasting from today’s rules, where overtime Basketball award for the state of Michigan. In addi- team was 43-1 with their only loss coming against Regardless, the Kalamazoo area was filled with is necessary if the game is tied after regulation play, tion to his 231 points in the course of the 1931-1932 the eventual state champions in the 1931 state basketball talent in this era. Kalamazoo Central won the officials would analyze the game’s statistics and season, Matteson led all scorers in the state, Class playoffs.” the Class A title, St. Augustine, now Hackett Catholic look for which team had a better shot percentage. A through Class D, in the playoffs, for most points. According to Matteson’s nephew Bill, life in Preparatory, captured the Class C championship in The team with the higher shot percentage would Matteson is now enshrined in the Portage Central Portage was far different. addition to the Portage Agricultural Class D victory. then be deemed the victor. Athletic Hall of Fame. “It was very rural out here,” Bill Matteson said. This Class D State Championship team remains Regardless of these differences in rules, the Por- “Portage was a [basketball] dynasty in this time “Kalamazoo was seen as a higher society with the only state champion basketball team in Portage tage Agricultural team was led by its captain, Lowell period,” said Matteson’s nephew Tom Matteson. “In Kalamazoo College and Western Michigan, and we history and one of nine state title teams in the Matteson, who was awarded the prestigious Mr. Lowell’s two years on the varsity team, the Portage were seen as just a bunch of celery farmers.” school’s 93 year history. WWMT-3 Athletes Of The Week initiate team success BY JARED LUTZ move on to play in college. Sports Editor Since the fall of 2013, seniors Madison Umberger and Madison Jaqua, and 2014 graduates Dominic For years, WWMT-Newschannel 3 has recognized Latorra and Lea Forester have been named athlete of athletes of the week across Southwest Michigan for the week. These athletes have had a big role in the stand out performances in their specific sport. Since success of their individual teams. the fall of 2013, WWMT has featured four Portage Umberger helped lead her team to a state runner Central athletes as the athlete of the week. up finishes in women’s swimming in 2013 with an There is no committee for the athlete of the week individual state championship in the 200 Individual selection process, it is just up to the reporters in the Medley. Forester also led her team to the state sports department, Sports Anchor Andy Pepper said. championship game, where they lost to Allen Park. “We now try to find a great athlete who also has Although the wrestling team did not finish well as a an interesting human interest angle,” Pepper said. team for Latorra’s senior year, he placed 2nd in the “Maybe someone who is also a standout aca- individual state competition at the end of the year. demically, or has a neat hobby, or had a unique life Forester is currently playing softball at Michigan experience.” State University and Latora is wrestling at Lindsay Pepper and his colleagues find their athletes Wilson College. Umberger has committed to the Uni- through watching the kids play and reading about versity of Arkansas to swim next year in the SEC. them online or in the paper, according to Pepper. “I wanted the chance to fight for something,” Newschannel 3/STAMPEDE Most athletes highlighted as an Athlete of the Week Umberger said. “I wanted a really big challenge.” Weekly Announcement: This graphic flashes on Newschannel-3 before the program begins.

Mustang Meal Deal! $5.00 8-inch sub, chips and fountain drink! 7886 $1 Oakland Drive We cater (Corner of open medium Oakland and Centre. Next to houses! Full City Cafe!) beverage 11 a.m.-4 p.m. ... School days only! with this coupon (Must show valid student ID) Expires 4-23-15 March 20, 2015 sports 15 Eric Lancaster returns as men’s water polo coach After a few years away from the game, Lancaster is back as the head coach BY KATE SPEARS Staff Writer

After taking two years off to be with his kids, psychology teacher Eric Lancaster will be returning as the men’s water polo coach next fall. His last time coaching water polo was in the fall of 2013. Because this is not his first year coaching, Courtesy of Gina Nickell Lancaster has high expectations for the team and is Standing Tall: The men’s water polo team poses for team pictures with their coaches in front of Central Middle School excited to reach multiple goals. “My goals next year are to have fun, to be a dis- we have the disadvantage of losing so many seniors, All-American and the state championship. think they want stability in someone who has done ciplined team, to teach fundamentals, and to com- but I think that we can make up for it.” Lancaster then went on to play water polo at the it before.” pete,” Lancaster said. “The problem is we play a lot of Lancaster began playing water polo at a young University of Michigan. Starting as a freshman, he Junior Gabe Pedraza, will be a senior on the team state-ranked tough teams in our district, so wins are age. As an eighth grader in middle school, Lancaster was First Team All Big Ten, Big Ten MVP, and won the next fall. Pedraza is the primary 2-meter defender for hard to come by. You have to look at how well you was pulled up to join the Jenison High School water Club National and Big Ten Championships. Junior the team and a leading scorer. do, how well you play as a team, and improvements polo team. year he won Big Ten MVP and broke Michigan’s “Lancaster was our first in the program, and was as successes.” He won many awards throughout his high school all-time scoring record. As a team, they won the always part of the water polo family. It’s been a little Junior Ben Coll is very expectant for the upcom- career. His sophomore year he was awarded third National Championship and the First Team National rough having a new coach every year,” Pedraza said. ing season. team all-state. Junior and senior year, Lancaster tournament. “With Lan back we should be able to make some “Our goal every year is to make it past districts received first team all-state, as well as a two-year “I think I am one of the few people in the area things happen.” and into regionals, it has never happened in our pro- captain and the regional MVP. Senior year he pre- that knows what they’re doing, that has played the The team’s record last year was 2-8. With Lancast- gram before,” Coll said. “I think that having Lancaster ceded to win the state tournament MVP, Michigan sport and that has coached the sport,” Lancaster er returning in the fall, the team is expecting more back will definitely improve our program. However High School Water Polo Player of the Year, Academic said. “Because they had young kids in it before, I successes and getting there by setting high goals. Maddie Jump looks for Previous success led Jaymie continued success in diving Voss to Portage Central Barns dove for Western Michigan University BY BELLA PEDRAZA BY DAYTON JUDAY After finishing college, Voss continued with and earned the title of High School All-American softball at a coaching level. She is currently a softball Staff Writer diver. He trains her both in her club diving team and Staff Writer trainer at Worden’s Softball Academy, where she has school diving team. He works her hard and makes trained for 11 years. She calmly steps up to the diving board. Her sure she can execute her dives. First year special education teacher Jaymie Voss “Honestly it’s better than playing now,” Voss said. breathing is steady and controlled from doing her “He pushes me a lot but he always keeps it with has had years of success in softball and in educa- “I watch them play and see their success and it just pre-dive exercises. After a deep breath, she leaps in your own range of your ability,” Jump said. “As tion that has lead to her taking a position at Portage makes everything worth it.” into the air and gracefully does her routine with a lit- long as you keep moving forward he always wants Central. Before coming to Portage Central, Voss worked at tle splash as she enters the water. Sophomore Mad- you to get the harder dives and never just settle for Voss graduated from Kalamazoo Christian High the Kalamazoo County Juvenile Home. die Jump has done it again, claiming the conference something easy.” School where she played four She worked as a special champion for the second consecutive year. Jump Barns and Jump share a close relationship and years of varsity softball. education teacher. She taught began diving her freshman year with a background he is always supportive of her, she said. He isn’t only During her high school students primarily ages 11 to in gymnastics. From then, she has excelled dramati- concerned with her ability to dive, he also talks to career, she helped lead her team 17. Voss worked there for about cally according to her coach Dr. Ollie Barns. She has her about school, grades and what’s going on in her to four state championships. Her seven years before coming to won the Southwestern Michigan Athletic Confer- life. senior year state championship Portage Central. ence (SMAC) in both her freshman and sophomore “He doesn’t just care about diving,” Jump said. was the most surprising and During her time there she year and claimed fourth in the state this year. “He cares about your whole life.” most exciting because of how taught students who were “In her first year of diving with me she placed al- Barns also appreciates Jump’s coachability. When many upperclassmen they had actually in the facility as well as most completely last place but this year, her second he instructs her about test taking skills and things lost the season before, according kids who had it as an alternative year, she placed close to first in the state finals,” Barns outside of diving she listens intently. to Voss. school. said. “She went from worst to first.” “She’s extremely coachable, she listens to every- Voss decided to start her “It was a harder job to leave Jump dives for both the school and a club, Rip thing even beyond diving,” Barns said. “She listens collegiate softball career at than most people would think,” Squad Diving. She trains hard during the season and to instructions regarding how to get through life, Oakland University for two years. Voss said. “You get really attached to the kids and in the off season. She dives six days a week during like how to take tests in school, she applies the tech- For her junior and senior year she played at Western they come from a really tough background.” the season and three to four days a week in the off niques and theories we use in diving to chemistry. Michigan University, where she succeeded on the According to Voss, her favorite thing about season. She listens to everything, she learns everything.” field and in the classroom. Portage Central is the longevity of seeing students “Next year I’m looking at state champion,” Jump Jump plans to dive through her years of high As a junior at WMU, Voss was named first team progress and have success. She may not of had that said. school and hopes to win states her junior and senior All-Mac as an outfielder. Then, as a senior, she won at her other job. This year at regionals, Jump earned a score which year, she said. After high school Jump also sees a first team All-Mac as a utility player. Ever since coming to Portage Central, Voss has earns her the title of an All- American Diver. Her future diving career in college. Voss won awards off the field, as well as on. loved the school and the staff. dives include a front two and a half, forward, back “I think she can win the state championships, During her senior year, Voss won academic all-state “I get up every morning and I can’t wait to be and reverse twister. The judges score divers on a and go onto have a very successful college career,” along with National Fastpitch Coaches Association here,” Voss said. “It’s amazing.” scale of one to ten in half point increments. Barns said (NFCA) All-American Scholar Athlete. 16 stampede March 20, 2015

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