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central Volume 20STAMPEDE Issue 6 Portage Central High School Portage, Mich. April 25, 2014 Ambassador program undergoes changes Program strengthens application process in order to seek out first-rate representatives

BY CAITLIN MATTHEWS [email protected] Staff Writer

Transitioning from middle school to high school isn’t easy, which is why the Student Ambassador program was established two years ago. This program hopes to aid new freshmen to over- come common high school struggles and answer questions about upcoming activities, athletic events and academic issues. The program is at the end of its second year, and has undergone many changes since it was first created. This year, the application procedure for Student Ambassadors has changed to improve the selection process. To ensure that the new freshmen are being helped by our school’s best representatives, sophomore and junior applicants must now at- tend an interview with the Student Ambassador officers. Students must also write an essay, fill out an application and acquire two teacher recommendations. Student Ambassador Secretary Ian Epkey believes that adding the interview to the application process will be beneficial. “I think it’s a good thing because we can get a more in-depth analysis of how each person will do as an ambassador,” Epkey said. According to Epkey, the officers hope to find out more about their personality and their school reputation, as well as predict their connection with the upcoming freshmen. In order to improve the future Ambassador program, officers hope to meet with the upcoming freshmen before the end of the school year. This will try to improve connections with the new freshmen. The officers have set a goal this year to make sure all of the -am bassadors have better relationships with their freshmen as the year progresses. There are twenty-three returning ambassadors, including the five officers. Fifty-six sophomores and juniors applied to be a student ambas- sador, but not all of them will be accepted. Sophomore Danny Saba applied to be a student ambassador, Madison Jaqua/STAMPEDE hoping to help the new freshmen through their first year of high school. He is eager to answer questions and lead them in the right direction. Making Decisions: Juniors Hunter Simino and Ian Epkey go over dozens of applications with Advisor Kent White before selecting next “Since the freshmen have this whole new experience of high year’s ambassadors. The Student Ambassador program is preparing to enter its third year next September. school, they need a little bit more of, I guess, guidance with all the activities going on and what we do there, and just things that people grams foward along with itself. part of next year’s program on April 15. Forty-four students made wouldn’t know if they didn’t go to this school,” Saba said. “We are working with our club leaders so our ambassadors are it out of the 56 that applied. When the program was first started The progam is looking beyond itself, seeking to improve school working with our freshmen and saying ‘you need to get involved,’” three years ago during the spring, there were only eight ambassa- involvement with the upcoming freshmen. The ambassadors are Advisor Kent White said. dors who were dedicated to helping new students transferring into trying to use the program as a pivot in order to launch other pro- The Student Ambassador officers announced who became a Portage Central during the school year. What’s Inside... page page Transformation of the page Mustang Relay for Life logo preview 7 9 Movies getting worse 1 1 2 news April 25, 2014 Students proceed without caution inBrief Prevalence of accidents heightens in school parking lot Half day scheduled to allow for BY RACHEL BATES teacher development [email protected]

Focus Editor Next Friday, May 2, there will be a half day of Earlier this year, senior Melanie Ulsh was rear- school. Students will go to their 5th through 7th ended by another student exiting the school park- hours in the morning. Each class will have extra ing lot onto Centre Avenue; fortunately, her car time added on to it. The half day is intended to wasn’t seriously damaged. She agrees that stu- allow teachers professional development time in dents need to pay better attention when entering the afternoon. and exiting the parking lot. “Stay off your phones in the parking lot and watch where you’re going,” Ulsh said. “Students Changes affect final exam week, need to be more careful and pay attention to the pushing farther into summer road.” According to the Traffic Crash Reporting Sys- tem, the number of crashes in the Kalamazoo area Exams will start on Wednesday, June 4, and totaled at 7,547 in 2012. While not all of these run through Monday, June 9. Students will take crashes involve teens, new drivers make mistakes, two exams a day with their first exam starting at and these mistakes can be extremely hazardous to 7:45 a.m. and their second exam starting at 9:55 a.m. After completing both exams, students will themselves and other drivers. Rachel Bates/STAMPEDE School resource officer Andrea Elhert said she be dismissed for the day at 11:55 a.m. On Mon- had to deal with multiple car accidents in the stu- day, June 9, students will take their seventh hour Careless Driving: These staged accidents show how car crashes can happen in the school dent parking lot this school year. exam from 7:45 to 9:45 and then be dismissed “This year we have had 23 private property ac- parking lot. after that. After the seventh hour exam, there will cidents,” Elhert said. “Pulling into parking spaces be makeup exams. and rear-ending other vehicles are a majority of Private property accidents don’t involve a and not the passengers in the car and turn off your the accidents accounted for.” written police report, but they do require drivers mobile devices,” LaRoy said. “Don’t drive until to communicate and exchange information. you’re mature enough to do that.” Students get recognition for With an accident on a public road, there is al- Junior Mackenzie Cannon has been involved hard work at award ceremony ways an at-fault driver, meaning at least one driv- in an accident in the student parking lot and has er involved will receive a traffic citation. witnessed a few there also. On Tuesday, underclassmen students will be Student drivers become easily distracted and “Accidents are frequent because teenagers recognized for academic and community achieve- may not be following driving laws, making them drive carelessly and quickly, so the whole parking ments. The underclassmen awards are on April more susceptible to be in a crash, according to El- lot filled with them makes accidents prevalent,” 29 in the auditorium. Freshmen awards are at hert. Cannon said. 8:45 a.m., sophomore awards at 9:45 a.m. and ju- Working at the Welcome Center, Adam LaRoy 22 of the 23 accidents that occurred in the stu- niors at 10:45 a.m. Students will be awarded on tries to help students when an accident happens dent parking lot this year involved student driv- academic achievement with the gold, silver and as best as he can. ers. bronze medals. Also, students with great aca- “First thing I do is send them to Officer Elhert If you’re in an accident in the student parking demic improvement will be recognized. Students and she makes a report,” LaRoy said. “They’re re- lot, the best thing to do is let the front office or Of- will also be awarded for community service with ported a couple times a month.” ficer Elhert know. They know the proper protocol, more than 50 hours, and anticipating IB diploma If asked, LaRoy also helps out by looking and will make sure information is exchanged and candidates will be acknowledged. through footage from the school cameras, to pin- a report is written if necessary. point accidents in the parking lot. “Remember, driving is a privilege not a right,” Rachel Bates/STAMPEDE “Slow down, pay attention to other drivers LaRoy said. Not too late to sign up for upcoming Grad Bash

End-of-year schedule changes due to snow days All seniors graduating this year are welcome to attend the 2014 Grad Bash: a fun and final Moorsbridge Elementary School will end their the high school students being required to come BY MADISON JAQUA party for the senior class. The location is a mys- [email protected] year on Friday, June 6 with a half day. to full days of school before taking those exams. tery and the cost is $75 to attend, which can be Moorsbridge and West Middle will have full Bielang however clarified this misconception. News Editor paid on the day or ahead of time. This overnight days on Friday and then another half day on “Think of it as inserting the make up days just event is only for seniors graduating this year. Af- For as long as junior Vance Siebers can re- Monday, June 9. These two schools are required prior to the exam days and then resuming the ter the graduation ceremony, students attending member, he’s never been in school for his birth- to have this schedule,” Bielang said. this final goodbye are to meet in the Commons. day, June 9. But after the amount of the snow days extra time be- Many students find the ex- From there they will be bussed to a secret location the district had this winter, this year might be the cause of an tra day on Monday excessive, where they will enjoy their graduation night in a exception. additional clo- but they do recognize the im- safe, alcohol-free environment. More information Right before spring break, Superintendent sure they had. portance of the exams. on what to bring and times will be revealed dur- Mark Bielang released the schedule for the end of Also, in- “I know we need to take ing senior breakfast or during senior week. this year. Because the district was three snow days stead of taking that exam,” sophomore Em- over the limit, some changes were necessary. their last ex- ily Quertermus said. “But I “The final decision was based on what the ams on Friday, think that they should have Senior Ride-Out tradition just a state law requires in order for the district to re- high school just added time to every day few weeks away ceive the full amount of state funding,” Bielang students from instead of making us go extra said. “I also took into account the terms of our both Central days.” collective bargaining agreement with our teachers and North- Siebers agrees with her. The Senior Ride-Out to honor graduating se- which speaks to calendar-related issues.” ern will have “I understand that there niors is scheduled for the afternoon of Thursday, The year has been extended to at least Friday, to come in on are state laws and require- May 15 at McCamley Field (weather permitting). Madison Jaqua/STAMPEDE June 6 for all schools from the original end date of Monday and ments that take precedence The school will recognize the Class of 2014’s most Wednesday, June 4. But from that, the year differs take the final over our wants,” Siebers said. accomplished seniors with academic awards, for certain schools. All schools in the district mi- exam. The extra time is needed because of MME “But as a selfish teenager who adores sleep, I’ll cords, medallions and community service recog- nus Portage Central High School, Portage North- testing in March. support any decision that avoids alarm clocks on nitions. Bring your sunscreen! ern High School, Portage West Middle School and There are many rumors going around among a Monday morning.” April 25, 2014 news 3 New policy changes the weight on exams Changes would increase the percent of students’ grades that would be affected by final exams

BY NICO SCHUEN “It looks like there’s enough support for a “We want to get people prepared for them gain a high grade. [email protected] change,” Halloran said. “Portage Northern is so that they’re ready to sit for exams that have a “It would be harder to concentrate for exams Staff Writer also on the same page as us and agrees with the pretty significant impact,” Alburtus said. because there would be more pressure to get a changes.” One of the ideas included with this discussion good grade,” Liou said. Amidst all the changes coming to Portage Currently, exam weights sit at about 14 per- is requiring upperclassmen exams to have a big- One thing students should take into account Central, a discussion of changing the exam grad- cent of a student’s overall grade for the semester. ger weight than lowerclassmen. is that this is only a discussion at the moment. No ing policy has been in the works. At the moment, In comparison, East Grand Rapids, Forest The reason for this is that juniors and seniors one is forcing the school to accept any change in grading consists of three-sevenths weight per Hills and Okemos schools all have higher exam have had more experience with taking exams than exam grading. marking period along with a one-seventh weight weights of 20 to 30 percent, which are also the freshmen and sophomores. A committee is discussing what would bea for exams. schools Portage Central compares itself to, ac- Seniors are also in their last year of high school good weight for students so it doesn’t crush them However, if these changes do take place, ex- cording to principal Eric Alburtus. and will be moving onto college their following but it also plays a significant impact on their final ams may play a bigger role in determining a stu- Since high school is the final step before col- year. There has been mixed responses from the grade. dent’s final grade for the semester. lege, both high schools in the district are trying to student body concerning the changes with exam However, if these changes are approved, they According to Tim Halloran, a math teacher prepare its students for the next level. grading. will not be happening any time soon. and major supporter of changing the policy, noth- In college, students normally write three to Junior Jed Forster agrees with the changes According to Halloran, the earliest one can ing has been set in stone about changing the exam four papers, then take an exam which plays a since it would prepare students for college more expect them is in the next few years, possibly in grading policy. major role concerning their grade. However, in by making them take exams more seriously. 2015. A survey taken by both Portage Central and high school, each marking period is filled with as- On the other hand, sophomore Natalie Liou “The next step is to determine the actual poli- Portage Northern teachers yielded results of inter- signments which tips the balance between assign- thinks that strengthening it would cause students cy, hopefully by the end of the school year,” Hal- est in changing exam weights. ments and exams. to stress out more due to increased pressure to loran said. Community comes together for Day of Kindness Businesses throughout Portage donate various items to contribute to Thursday’s event

BY DAYTON JUDAY Students from the Lighthouse Christian Fellowship and other groups will Sepcial day of happiness: [email protected] be cleaning up the lunch room instead. This poster is displayed on Staff Writer The leader of the Lighthouse Christian Fellowship, junior Ben Palmer, Day of Kindess to remind thinks there are many cool things taking place. students to spread the joy The Day of Kindness will be on Thursday. It was first started in 2009, and “The coolest part is the compliment corner,” Palmer said. ”It’s a lot of and boost each other’s self has been an annual event ever since. Day of Kindness is designed to help fun.” lighten the mood of everyone by giving students and staff gifts and goodies. The compliment corner is where a group of students will be standing in confidences. The day is The event is sponsored by the Lighthouse Christian Fellowship and the Be the corners of the hallways giving out compliments. The purpose of this is to meant to encourage stu- the Change school improvement group. help brighten and cheer people up. dents to be positive with There will be a huge amount of gifts and goodies being handed out rang- Students will also receive ice cream sandwiches during lunch to make each other. Clubs within ing anywhere from cookies to stickers. The event will go all day long from their lunches just a little sweeter. There will be music playing during the day the school, along with the time students walk in to the time they leave at the end of the day. to help brighten the school’s mood and spirit. teachers and businesses The Day of Kindness is not entirely focused on the students but also on Leader of the Be the Change group, Cathy Laurencig, thinks it’s a day to in the community, have the staff. Staff will receive flowers that were donated, as well as thank you make everyone more happy. worked hard to make this notes handwritten by students. “Day of Kindness is intended to be a day where students and faculty do year’s event better than There is also a staff luncheon that numerous businesses and parents will kind things for others in the school and are making everyone feel happy and before. Day of Kindess is be donating food. Donators will include Chicken Coop, Sweetwaters, V and welcome,” Laurencig said. V Quality Meats. This event is said to be a day to help out everybody’s day and make them on Thursday. The bus drivers will be given a potted plant as a recognition of all their feel better. It’s just about random acts of kindness. work. Also the kitchen and janitorial staff will be recognized for their help Day of Kindness is full of exciting and fun events, according to the advi- by having a day off of cleaning up after the messy students. sor of the Lighthouse Christian Fellowship, Mary Scott. Senior ‘detainee’ has a wild spring break experience to share

BY AUSTIN WOLF and a half hours. Luckily, he did not have to pay he got it back and he will do so in the future. [email protected] the fine of $580. Harrison said the airport se- Harrison had a photocopy of his green Staff Writer curity guard was kind enough not to fine card. Security just had to validate his in- him. formation to make sure he did actually Over spring break, senior Josh Harrison en- The woman who had checked his have a green card, so he could come countered a terrifying experience. Harrison lost passport where he had kept his green back to the United States. his green card, a necessity for him to have legal card, had been looking through it for “There wasn’t really much I could do residency within the United States. He also needs five minutes, then eventually handed it to get out of it, to be honest. My situation it to enter and leave the country, because he is a back to him. Harrison be- was completely in the hands of the airport South African passport holder. lieves that officials,” Harrison said. Leaving for Denmark, he encountered no is- his Har- sues concerning his green card. Harrison was ac- rison said companied by Chuck Shira along with five other h e Josh students for an exchange trip for two weeks. Dur- card will ing their time they went to an IB school and par- fell out definite- ticipated in activities with the kids in Denmark, in the ly take this as a Harrison like exploring the country and experiencing Dan- process. learning experience ish culture. He regrets and that he never However, when he tried to re-enter the United not double wants to encounter States, Harrison discovered the loss of his green checking his this type of situation card. Harrison was at the airport for about two passport after again in the future. 4 view April 25, 2014 ur View Being a freshman can prove difficult for many teenagers - being sador officers and Activities Director Kent White, which we think in an unfamiliar place with few friends and several strangers can was an effective way to improve the validity of the entire organiza- seem scary at first. This is why Student Ambassadors was founded tion. two years ago at our school: to provide positive role models for As far as the future of Student Ambassadors, we think the of- freshmen to talk to if they ever encounter a problem. The program ficers should interview next year’s sophomores (the current fresh- has had its faults; however, we think it has come a long way since men) about their experiences with the program this year. This way, it began. they would gain both positive and negative feedback so that the The changes, like the interviewing process of each ambassador ambassadors will know which aspects to change and which aspects applicant, have been put in place for the benefit of the freshmen. We to keep for following years. believe this is a smart addition to the program, to prevent merely We also suggest that the ambassadors find a way to bond with any individual from joining. In order to be a role model to anyone, the freshmen in their groups. They are planning to meet with the Student Ambassadors especially to these freshmen, you have to be skilled at interacting incoming freshmen sometime during the summer, but we recom- with people and at giving them positive guidance. We like that these mend that they meet more than once over the summer to get to interviews were face-to-face with ambassador officers because that know each other on a more personal level. serve a valuable makes it easier for the officers to conclude if the applicants were a Also, to make this both beneficial and enjoyable for the fresh- good fit for the program. men, we suggest that the sessions incorporate team-building activi- purpose at PCHS Along with face-to-face interviews, ambassadors asked teach- ties to promote a sense of unity. ers about their suggestions for potential future ambassadors. Since We feel that the Student Ambassadors program has come a long teachers see how students interact with others during school, they way since its formation, and we commend them on making changes were able to give helpful recommendations to the Student Ambas- that benefit the program. Stampede Staff

Lauren Ammar Scott Solomon five five Editors-in-Chief on Madison Jaqua...... News Editor Katie Drews...... View Editor Rachel Bates...... Focus Editor Devon Wilson...... Vibe Editor Jared Lutz...... Sports Editor Alex Block ...... Online Editor Hattie Foley...... Photo Editor Assistant Editors/Staff Writers: Katie Bates, Ethan Emily Lancaster, 9th Dan Bowditch, 10th Hailey Smith, 11th Noah Spears, 12th Mrs. Tucker, teacher Dunlop, Lucy Forster, Dayton Juday, Matthew Lightfoot, Dakotah Lilly, Shelby Mannes, Caitlin Matthews, Gabe 1. Do you think car accidents are common in the student parking lot? Why? Pedraza, Nico Schuen, Brian Taggett, Andrew Wolf, Austin Wolf Probably, I mean with the Not really, but if people let Probably! I drive in it. If it’s not reported, did the Yes, because students do not Business Manager: Ryan McNassor way some students drive... cars in, took turns, and gave crash actually happen? always pay attention to what Adviser: Cheryl Braford Yikes. a courtesy wave sometimes, they are doing. there would be none. The Central Stampede publishes approximately one publication a month, primarily by the Journalism II class 2. How does technology affect our generation? at Portage Central High School, 8135 S. Westnedge, Portage, MI 49002. It also uses work from Journalism I I think it’s caused a lot of #ItControlsUs. Idk, follow me on Insta I’ll answer, but first, let me Some negative, some positive - students. teenagers to become very though. take a selfie. students are using cell phones isolated and anti-social. in my classroom a lot. Some The Central Stampede is a member of the Michigan for education, sometimes not. Interscholastic Press Association (MIPA). The purpose of the Central Stampede is to act as an open forum for stu- dents of Portage Central. The staff will achieve a balance 3. What is the ideal summer job? Why? between informing and entertaining our readers.

Celebration Cinema: Teaching little kids to play Somewhere with ice Coaching baseball. Lifeguard - being outside Editorials reduced popcorn and free basketball, because ball is cream! in the sun and by water! Staff editorials are unsigned and represent consensus of showings. life, or being a lifeguard What job could be better? the staff. The opinion of the staff is represented in the because you don’t do “Our View” column. The opinions of the editors, staff anything. writers and guest writers will have bylines and will carry 4. What is the worst movie you’ve seen on Netflix? their own views. Dark Shadows. End of story. Ping Pong Playa. Don’t know. I generally Anything that isn’t Blue No time for Netflix - I have Letters As an open forum, the Stampede welcomes all members keep up with the Kar- Mountain State. a muffin cart to run. of the Portage community. However, the staff reserves dashians. the right to edit letters based on length and content.

Phone: (269) 323-5218 Fax: (269) 323-5290 5. What do you think of our current Mustang logo? Room: 2116 It’s nice; I mean, it’s a logo. It’s fierce. It stares into all Is it being changed...? Which one? There are like Awesome! of our opponents’ souls. 17 different logos. The Central Stampede Portage Central High School 8135 South Westnedge Ave. Portage, MI 49002 April 25, 2014 view 5 Does technology help or hurt? MHSAA Social media and Technology editor photo should technology are the -in- causes a constant power of the chief battle of editor treat all future S c o t t S o l o m o n distractions H at t i e F o l e y [email protected] [email protected] Looking to the future has always simply that: teach. There is something sports If I had a dollar for every time I While many kids nowadays do sim- been our country’s priority; looking to to human interaction and understand- heard an adult complain about how ply waste time on social media, it also the next idea, new technology, or the ing that technology cannot replace. technology is “ruining” kids, I would has vast amounts of powerful, positive latest solution to a problem. The fu- What will happen when people are equally stop writing this right now because I potential. ture has become focused and our faith not able to communicate effectively would be a millionaire and would no The entire Arab Spring, which has been put into cell phones, laptops, because they have been raised to com- longer need to go to high school. was initiated by the 2011 revolution tablets, and social media. Granted, this municate through screens their entire People continually criticize our in Egypt, was triggered by a political evolution of technology has had mas- lives? What will happen when they generation because technology is “ru- movement on Facebook. Oppressed sive benefits; people are able to con- have used cell phones as distractions, sports ining” us, they fail to see the mere fact citizens were able to use Facebook to nect, ideas are spread at the touch of ways to cheat through high school, that technology is the future, and we unite for the greater good of their coun- a button, and aspects of daily life have and aim to go into positions of power? editor are the generation that will be able to try. This shows the immense potential become simplified. But it makes me These are the people who post ridicu- harness its power. As the years go on, power in social media. Without social wonder how simplified our country lous, inappropriate, or drunken “self- technology has and will continue to J a r e d L u t z media, the 2011 Egyptian Revolution is willing to become before we realize ies” and videos of themselves online, [email protected] play a big role in our lives. may never have occurred. Even in how many negative effects the techno- not understanding the gravity of the Whether it is social media, e-mail, American politics, social media trends logical revolution and advancement of outcome if someone in their life or a The Michigan High School Ath- or using simple Microsoft Office prod- play a huge role. Online petitions are social media have on the people, and future employer were to come across letic Association must set guidelines ucts, we have the expertise in all these becoming more and more common, especially the teens, of this country. them. in order to keep athletes safe in sea- fields. and the White House even responds to In a classroom it is a constant battle Social media and technology has son. Although, there is a fine line - be It is nearly impossible to find a job some of these online petitions. for teachers trying to compete with the hurt my generation more than it has tween safe and unnecessary caution. where you don’t use e-mail nowadays; While we may not have a need to temptation students have with phones helped. Football is undoubtedly the tough- the majority of people in our genera- overthrow our government, this just present, with alerts from Twitter and I worry when I look around the est sport available for high school tion have been using e-mail since they shows the pure power of social media. Instagram. Teachers in some cases sim- halls of what exactly occupies students’ athletes, although football teams were 10 years old. With the obvious influence of social ply babysit at certain points of the day minds all day as they are glued to their are only eligible for one game a While many adults struggle to learn media, and since our generation has and phones become the distraction to phones. All I hear is gossip and the lat- week, which is an unnecessary pre- simple technological skills, we simply the means and the know-how to har- keep children quiet. est thing on Twitter or Instagram. My cautionary measure, especially in grew up on them. ness this power, this will only be yet I say children, because this is what generation has forgotten what it’s like comparison to other contact sports. Many members of our generation another advantage our generation sees phones truly make us out to be: igno- to go outside, to read (and enjoy) a Hockey is allowed 35 regular sea- will be able to find a job after college from technological development. rant and distracted children who must book. We have forgotten what true hu- son games according to MHSAA and because they are computer savvy. A Even some teachers are starting to have a “toy” to distract from the hard man interaction is. three games a week, where football business would much rather hire a use social media to communicate with or uncomfortable aspects of life and Yes, social media and technol- is only allowed nine regular season prospective employee who knows how their students. Although this may seem from things we do not wish to do. ogy can overthrow corrupted leaders games. So, according to MHSAA, to use computers well, opposed to an superfluous, it is extremely helpful to Students don’t understand the worldwide and connect people global- football is about four times as physi- adult who is far less competent with students, and just shows technology harm of distraction at this point in ly in ways we have never experienced. cal as hockey. Granted, football is the technology. like social media are the way of the fu- their lives. Looking to your phone for These and many other benefits have highest injury-provoking sport that Not only will we have an advantage ture. answers to everything or as an escape been a positive outcome of technology can be played in high school, and high with basic technological functions in By simply harnessing the very from an uncomfortable situation will and social media. school football also accounts for more the workplace, but we also will have knowledge and even pastimes we were not always suffice. However, on a human and emo- recorded injuries than college football, the means to harness the great power raised on, our generation will be ex- People argue the opportunities tional level, I fear for when my genera- particularly concussions, but are these we call social media. It is ignorant to tremely powerful and successful and technology offers us in classrooms. tion has power placed in their hands strict parameters really necessary? dismiss social media as something kids should not be overlooked for being too Then why do we have teachers in the and are told to run the show. We will I understand the safety con- just waste time on. “plugged-in.” first place? A teacher is meant to do not be ready. cerns regarding football and the recovery time needed to keep ath- letes healthy, but why is there such an emphasis on football? Lacrosse, Prom is a senior’s rite of passage hockey and even soccer, yes soc- best times of your life, or it can be cer, are injury-prone sports as well. I want an all senior Lacrosse is also allowed 35 games one of the worst times of your life. prom. As high school From your class load to social life, a season as well, so according to MH- goes on, my opinion SAA, 100 miles an hour shots being school can be very stressful. Once you may change. I could staff find your close-knit group of friends, fired at a goalie, with nothing but a make friends who helmet and chest pad on, is also four it becomes much easier. You love are younger than writer spending time with them and enjoying times less physical than football. me and when prom I know there is common miscon- football games and dances together. rolls around I might u c y o r s t e r When you finally reach the top of ception regarding the physicality of L F be stoked to have soccer. No, I don't consider soccer a [email protected] the food chain, I’m sure it feels amaz- them there with me. ing. Being a freshman, I can only dream. contact sport, but according to Bos- I don’t feel as if ton University's study regarding Prom is a privilege of becom- When I’m a senior I want to enjoy many juniors will concussions in high school sports, ing older, crossing into being an up- every perk of being at the top. To me agree with me on men's soccer finished a close second perclassman. While everyone loves that would include a dance exclusive- this, but I can hope. to the number of annual registered school dances, prom should be just ly for my grade. I would have all my I just feel like spend- concussions, right behind football. for seniors. Seniors have worked hard friends there. It would be like having ing one last night The restrictions on how many games their four years of high school and de- your last big event before graduating. with your graduating are allowed per season and per week serve to have one night of their own. I know there are lots of opportunities class would be a very are too strict for football. Players train I know that many juniors and for students to get involved their se- special thing that you for months on end, attend two-a-day seniors are close friends, and the nior year, but having a big event like would remember for practices throughout the summer, all to combined prom is no big deal for prom would be the biggest of them all. Disclaimer: Prom is for juniors AND seniors. This is the rest of your life. play merely nine regular season games. them. High school can be one of the For now, my opinion stands firm; a mock poster. 6 focus April 25, 2014 Sharing the school Students and their staff-member parents work together at PC BY AUSTIN WOLF [email protected] Staff Writer

Most high school students say goodbye to their parents before they leave for school each day, but some students are fortunate promotes going green enough to go to school where their parents work. There are some benefits of having your mom or dad work at BY SHELBY MANNES AND LAUREN AMMAR school. For example, junior Ryan Shore will stop by and get cook- ies from his mother, Joanie Shore, who works in the counseling of- Staff Writer and Editor-in-Chief fice. Sophomore Austin Laurencig, son of Biology teacher Catherine Laurencig, likes the fact that he can access information easily from In celebration of Earth Day, the annual Green-a-Thon festival his mom. is an event that raises environmental awareness and enlightens Not only is Austin Laurencig a student where his mother works, the Portage community of the many ways to go green. The event he also has the privilege of being a student in his mom’s Forensic promotes sustainable and eco-friendly practices and features local Science class. Mrs. Laurencig said they sometimes get in little argu- exhibitors and entertainment. ments because he likes to joke around. The sixth annual Green-a-Thon will take place tomorrow from “It has its ups and downs. It can be pretty embarrassing at times, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Celery Flats and is hosted by the Youth Advi- but other than that it’s a pretty fun class,” said Austin Laurencig. sory Committee. YAC is a committee of about 30 local high school Mrs. Laurencig purposely came to Portage Central, instead of students who organize events such as the Snow Party at Oakland moving to the Northern District, so she could teach at the same Austin Wolf/STAMPEDE Park, Teen Movie Night at Celery Flats during the summer and the school as her two sons. She thinks it is a good idea because she can Green-a-Thon, their biggest event of the year, in the spring. YAC look out for them, and help them stay out of trouble. Like Mother, Like Son: Mother Catherine Laurencig enjoys also corresponds with City Council and offers a youth perspective Despite the benefits of having a parent at school, there also are teaching in the same school as her son Austin. on issues regarding the city and community. some disadvantages. Most teenagers don’t want to share their school Deputy City Clerk and YAC advisor Adam Herringa said about and social time with their parents. Sophomore Leah Alburtus, who “It’s convenient; when we’re off of school, they’re off of school. 675 people attended the Green-a-Thon last year, and he hopes the has the distinction of having both parents working at the school, We have all of the same holidays and we drive together, so we turnout this year will be higher. There will be up to 30 different does not like it when other students ask her what it’s like to have her save on gas,” Laurencig said. “If there are issues with teachers I vendors, including ChocolaTea, Kalamazoo Metro Transit, the Por- parents work in the same building. Leah’s father is Principal Eric can communicate with them, or if they forget something, I’m right tage District Library, the Portage Park Board and our Gardening Alburtus, and her mother is an English teacher, Ann Alburtus. here or if he forgets money, he’ll come up and ask.” Club, to help inform citizens and provide opportunities to become Leah and her senior brother Ben Alburtus, who have been

Ryan Shore summed up his feeling best by saying, “She knows more ecologically friendly. around the high school ever since they were young, both feel com- too much.” fortable around all the teachers.

We want to Summer employment concerns convert people to a “ “greener lifestyle. BY ANDREW WOLF AND GABRIEL PEDRAZA “It was pretty easy to get the job,” Schniedenbach said. “But Staff Writers nowadays it’s a little bit harder.” Senior Jill Syrotchen Job positions normally reserved for kids are being filled by YAC Member adults. This summer, students might have to look to an increas- As the bitter winter and spring wind down and school comes to ingly difficult job market and compete for a single job opening. an end, many high schoolers will be looking for summer employ- Jobs that require a little bit more training can set an applicant ment, but they may find an unpleasant surprise. ahead of the rest and can expedite the hiring process. Some of Senior Jill Syrotchen, a member of the YAC, Gardening Club When being asked if they were seeking employment this sum- these jobs include lifeguarding, and other specialized job fields. mer, some students said they gave up after trying to apply to too and Environmental Club, hopes the Green-a-Thon will change the Sophomore Alex Beckman was recently hired as a lifeguard, way people treat themselves and the planet. many places. Stores in the mall such as Hol- but understands the difficulty of getting a job. lister, Aeropostale, and Teavana, normally “We want to convert people to a greener lifestyle,” Syrotchen “The certification process was quite diffi- said. don’t hire kids under 18 years old. cult, but when the employers knew I had it, it With some people however, finding Live music is a new component to the event, and the committee really sold the deal,” Beckman said. hopes to attract more people with the entertainment. There will means of summer employment is no laugh- Now Beckman is a part of the staff at the ing matter. Some teens work at dead-end also be exhibits, games and a giveaway of tree seedlings such as local Portage YMCA, and is one of the lucky white pine and eastern redbud. jobs that only make them unhappy, just for few to be accepted in the waves of applica- some quick summer cash. “One of the most attractive aspects of the event is the seedling tions. giveaway, with over 30 trees being handed out to event attendees Corn detasseling is always a popular op- But the future is not that dark for teens, tion for teens during the summer. Due to annually,” Herringa said. as Michigan is just coming out of a job reces- Last year’s event, with the largest turnout so far, was a suc- its huge paydays, it certainly pays off in the sion. According to Michigan Radio, the teen long run. Depending on your age and how cess partly due to the weather cooperating. In the past, rainy, cold unemployment rate has dropped from 35% weather conditions resulted in lower turnouts, but according to much you detassel, you could end up with -25%; there is now a steadying increase for upwards of hundreds of dollars at the end Herringa, last year was a “beautiful spring day.” teen jobs. “The event last year was the most successful yet,” Herringa of the season. Detasseling comes at a price Gabriel Pedraza/STAMPEDE Sophomore Nikki Mason is one of the though; working long hard hours in the said. “We had some new exhibitors that provided interactive ex- many high schoolers who have just starting hibits. For example, Kalamazoo Metro Transit brought a hybrid horrid summer heat can be very harmful to looking for jobs. some people. Local Lifeguard: Sophomore Alex Beckman bus and the Kalamazoo Astronomical Society brought solar tele- overcame the rigorous application process “ I have applied to four jobs and have not scopes.” Michigan’s teen unemployment rate is been hired yet, but it’s hard just turning 16,” to become a certified YMCA lifeguard. Similar exhibits, as well as some new ones, are planned for this more than double the state’s overall jobless Mason said. rate. year’s event. Since the weather has been so unpredictable this year, It is hard for kids just starting off looking there are concerns. Despite the concerns, the YAC has high expec- According to Michigan Radio, a quarter of teens who are look- for jobs, but according to state economic analyst Bruce Weaver, ing for a job this summer can’t get one. tations for the event, and the committee hopes to reach their goal teens looking for a summer job should be looking now, because of raising awareness of environmental issues that affect the citizens One of the few kids who already have jobs and will be working many of those jobs could be filled by Labor Day. this summer is junior John Schniedenbach, who has been employed of Portage while also inspiring citizens to live a more sustainable Some information in this article was obtained from a study lifestyle. 1.5 years as a bagger at Hardings, a local grocery store. conducted by Northeastern University. April 25, 2014 focus 7 Portage parks: from paths to plants Local parks offer numerous outdoor opportunities along with beautiful views With some of the best city parks in the state, Portage is full of pure nature in the form of forests, lakes, hills, streams, bogs and native plant and animal species. As the weather gets warmer and the flowers bloom, people throughout the community visit local parks to enjoy the fresh air and natural beauty of the earth. Whether you like to hike through a forest, run on a trail, or kayak on a lake or creek, there are plenty of opportunities in Portage to enjoy the fresh air. There are a total of 17 parks in Portage; here is a sample of a few worth exploring.

Schrier Park - A serene, stunning forest, Schrier Park is the perfect Eliason Nature Preserve - With 123 acres of untouched place to go for a hike, run, or just to clear your mind. In the summer, abun- land, Eliason Nature Preserve is the newest of the Portage parks, dant green leaves and plant life the land having just been donated. A grant for a new trail has just welcomes visitors. In the fall, gold been approved, and the new trail, extending from Osterhout Av- and red trees create a dazzling enue to Industrial Park Drive (off of West Melody Avenue), will display. In the winter, frost-cov- be coming next year. The park is a combination of forest-covered ered trees provide a lovely view uplands along with wetlands, and it is currently open on a limited while snowshoeing. In the spring, basis, with a partially paved trail and unpaved footpath a couple of flowers and birds bring the forest miles long to be enjoyed while the new trail is being built. Eliason back to life. A number of events Nature Preserve is full of wildlife, from large animals like white- are hosted in Schrier Park, from tailed deer to several species of native birds. Eliason Nature Pre- the Apple Festival to the Haunt- serve offers the perfect opportunity to catch a wildlife sighting or ed Forest. Unfortunately, due to a glimpse of one of numerous wildflower meadows, and it is also budget cuts, these events have perfect for just strolling among the tree-covered hills. Lauren Ammar/STAMPEDE been temporarily terminated, but there is always the possibility that Ramona Park - With a picturesque beach on Long they will return. In the mean time, West Lake Nature Preserve - A 110-acre wetland Lake, grassy fields and a fun playground, Ramona Park appreciate Schrier Park for what bog with 1,400 feet of frontage is a great place to it is: the beautiful woods of an along West Lake, this beauti- Lauren Ammar/STAMPEDE visit, especially ancient Michigan. ful and fragile ecosystem also in the summer- includes a shaded lowland for- time. Equipped est and excellent views of West Portage Creek Bicentennial Park - The most widely used with tennis Lake. “I love West Lake Nature of all of the Portage parks, Portage Creek Bicentennial Park (with the courts, basket- Preserve,” senior Layla Marvin popular Bicentennial trail, which stretches from Celery Flats to Kilgore ball courts, ball- said. “I went blueberry picking road) spans over 200 acres with eight miles of hiking and biking trails. All fields, soccer there in the summer, and since throughout the park are scenic views fields, volleyball you can go out near the water, of the Portage Creek. The Bicentennial courts, picnic it’s really serene. In the bog fac- trail is very popular for running and tables and three biking, and students take advantage of ing Westnedge, you get the pret- pavilions, there Lucy Forster/STAMPEDE tiest panoramic view. The nature the well-maintained trail for outdoor is no shortage in its woods is plenty, and the workouts year-round. “I like the trail of things to do leaves on the trees are groovy.” because it is flat and shady, and when at Ramona Park. Fishing and kayaking on the lake are also I run there in the winter, the wind is West Lake Nature Preserve con- Courtesy of Eye on Michigan Lauren Ammar/STAMPEDE available. The sandy beach and sparkling lake, sound of nects to Bishop’s Bog, the largest blocked from the trees,” freshman Jon- laughter and fresh breeze rustling through the grass and remaining bog of this type found athan Koning said. “It’s nice and calm without any traffic or cars, and trees make Ramona Park a lovely place to spend time at. there are a lot of other nice and friendly people there.” Nearby at the trail- in Michigan’s lower peninsula. The unspoiled landscape of the pre- head is Celery Flats, the city’s epicenter for events, hosting events ranging serve is lovely to behold, perfect for finding peace of mind and tran- from Recycled Art in the Park to the Green-a-Thon Earth Day festival. quility while admiring the unique ecosystem. BY LAUREN AMMAR Portage comes together to fight cancer McCamley Field hosts a 24-hour Relay For Life to support victims of cancer BY KATIE DREWS good cause. Any survivors of cancer or support- those who have fought it and those whose fight years and many students and staff have had their [email protected] ers of cancer research are welcome to take part in continues today. These glowing monuments can lives affected by cancer over the years. Besides View Editor the relay. Since the event be decorated in any way, Jenson, other students like Megan Hayward have takes place from 10 a.m. on serving as memorials or decided to engage in the event. Hayward has put To take a stand against cancer, to work to- May 31 to 10 a.m. on June an act of honor to those together her own team and is looking forward to ward a cure so that no human being will ever 1, the walk is divided into whom you support. supporting the cause. be stripped of another birthday again, to make three portions to devote to The last portion of the “It’s just a good cause,” Hayward said. “It’s a stride towards a cancer-free world - this is the different people affected by walk is the “Fight Back not personal to me, but I have known a few people mission of the the American Cancer Society’s an- cancer. Ceremony,” where partic- with cancer.” nual Relay For Life. The first lap around the ipants are encouraged to According to Jenson, in order to sign up with After volunteers from Relay For Life visited track is the Survivors Lap, take the next step. Wheth- a team, go to www.relayforlife.org and search for multiple IB Theory of Knowledge classes, some where cancer survivors er it be simply supporting relays in your area. Click the relay located in Por- students felt very moved by the presentation and celebrate their victory over a cancer victim or making tage, across from PCHS, held at McCamley Field. were curious about how they could take it to the the disease while being donations to the cause on “I don’t think [there’s a deadline], but it would next level. Senior LiAnne Jenson has taken the ini- cheered on by supporters a regular basis, Relay For be beneficial to sign up sooner than later,” Jenson tiative to involve PC in the action. who line the sides of the Life makes it clear that ev- said. “Relay For Life is walking for cancer to raise track. During the night, the eryone can do something So far, 48 teams have signed up to participate money for awareness and research to help sup- Luminaria Ceremony takes to help out. in Relay For Life at McCamley Field, and altogeth- port cancer victims,” Jenson said. “This year at place; this is where candles According to event ad- er nearly $18,000 has been raised. Jenson looks Portage Central it’s on May 31 to June 1 for 24 are lit inside of white paper visor Chuck Schira, he is forward to the event, hoping to reach the original hours to symbolize that cancer is 24/7.” bags and placed around the moved to take part in the goal of 58 registered teams, all working together Jenson encourages all students at PC and any- track to honor those who cause because students at to fund cancer research, in hopes of finding a cure one in the city of Portage to participate for this have been lost to cancer, PC have been involved for one day. 8 vibe April 25, 2014 Have With new app, read any you herd? Reviews from the central stampede book in under a day

BY DAKOTAH LILLY Mystical romance takes a new turn [email protected] Braden is a teenage boy struggling to find his place in the world, typi- Staff Writer cal, except that he has a remarkably rare gift known as witch eyes. These are multi-colored eyes that allow him to see the world through the veil that It’s been theorized that a society will move as masks the truth from humans and most witches. Braden’s witch eyes show fast as it can communicate via technology, how- him memories left from the past, spells, and traces of darkness that leave ever the most popular form of communication marks on certain places and people. When Braden believes he has seen a is through text. The problem with that, is that vision of eminent danger, he leaves to protect his uncle, and travels to the most people can only read at around 200 words mysterious town of Belle Dam. Shortly after arriving, Braden learns that per minute (WPM). Spritzing plans to change all possible that this may happen, but it would mean Belle Dam is divided between two feuding powerful witch families. With that, and bring us up to anywhere from 400-1,000 that articles and novels could be consumed in a his sudden arrival viewed suspiciously by the heads of the two rival fami- WPM. manageable fashion for every person. Even read- lies, Catherine Lansing and Jason Thorpe, Braden’s extraordinary powers When you read any kind of text, like this ar- ing the Bible could be done in less than 24 hours at have put his life at risk. With his feelings for a boy named Trey growing ticle for example, your eyes move to a specific around 650 WPM, something that’s easily achiev- stronger and everyone pushing him to pick sides in a feud he wants no part part of a word called the “Optimal Recognition able for anyone who’s tried Spritz. in, Braden feels more and more trapped. Especially when he discovers that Point” or ORP, then start to process what the While Spritz is still in debatably early stages, Trey is the son of a potential enemy, and that it might be his destiny to kill him. It’s up to Braden word is. Spritzing removes that part of the equa- the implications are exciting: the idea that you no to discover the truth behind Belle Dam, and to determine who the real enemies are before he loses tion by having each word’s ORP be in the same longer have to devote weeks of your time to sim- everyone he loves. Scott Tracey's novel Witch Eyes puts a refreshing new spin on a plot line involving spot, while the words go by on your screen. All ply moving your eyes back and forth. That you wolves, witches, and all things supernatural. The book came out around the time of the teen were- the reader has to do is focus on the red letter in the can burn through your backlog of books in less wolf and vampire craze, where it was sidelined and nearly forgotten about. However, its excellent middle, and they can both read and comprehend than a quarter of the time it would take otherwise. reviews and intriguing storyline allowed the book’s popularity to make a comeback in recent years. at blazing speeds. Considering the massive benefits of being able to Using this method, many people have seen read at that speed, it’s not hard to see Spritzing vast increases in reading speed for Spritzed con- catching on like wildfire. -Reviewed by Katie Bates tent, including 600 WPM, to over 1,000. At those [email protected] However, Spritz has a competitor in the read- speeds, you would have read this entire article in ing app market: Velocity. An iOS exclusive that around a minute. The group behind Spritz is hop- aims to do the same thing Spritz is attempting, to ing to have its method adopted and widespread buff the nation’s reading speed to absurd amounts Todd Terje brings disco back from the dead as fast as possible, bringing in a new era of news. above 200. Including the amounts that Spritz has The group behind Spritz has developed tools been achieving, like 600 and 1,000 WPM. Norwegian DJ and producer Todd Terje released his debut to help developers create apps and websites that However, Velocity has a pretty big pitfall hold- album entitled “It’s Album Time,” and the result is an hour of support Spritzing, including APIs for iOS and An- ing it back: it costs money to download. Compare fantastic electronic disco. Although disco was said to have died droid, as well as Javascript. There’s also a some- that to Spritz, which is free, and it’s no surprise out years ago, Terje is living proof that it can still survive. The what clunky, but usable Javascript bookmark ap- Spritz is leading the race. That being said, Spritz album cover is a retro-style drawing of a man and his keyboard plet that you can use to Spritz through content on definitely has its own issue, as it doesn’t have and it gives perfect insight into what to expect from the album. the internet, called OpenSpritz. any sort of full-application implementation yet. Everything on the album sounds and feels like it belongs in a While it has some kinks, like not splitting Just a java applet that you can bookmark, and it’s futuristic sci-fi film made in the ‘80s. While “groovy” may be syllables properly, and usually requiring you currently buggy. All the rest of the differences be- a cliche term to describe a disco album, there is just no way to highlight the content you want to, Spritz still tween the two, namely in terms of visual design around it. The bass grooves are funky in a way that makes it works for those who want to use it now and burn and platform choice, is up to personal preference impossible to listen to without slight toe tapping and an over- through articles and novels in mere minutes and more than anything. whelming urge to dance. On top of those are layers of synthe- hours as opposed to days. Bottom line is, if you’re looking into ways to sizers and drum machines that would make any electronic music aficionado smile. While disco was Part of the goal of Spritz is to facilitate- ex read faster, there are some choices out there that’ll never a diverse genre, “It’s Album Time” does a phenomenal job of mixing up the music. With bossa tremely fast communication and media consump- get you to ridiculous levels, and they’re hoping to novas and synth pop ballads, the album is much more than the term “disco” defines. With Terje’s debut tion, as well as have 15% of all text content be be fully integrated into a massive amount of text- album being a pleasant surprise, the DJ’s unrelenting love and talent in a genre that was deemed dead consumed in this fashion. Not only is it extremely based content. years ago is a promising hint at the endless possibilities of music in the present and future.

-Reviewed by Devon Wilson [email protected]

Be sure to check in at The Grand Budapest Hotel “The Grand Budapest Hotel” is the name of acclaimed director Wes Anderson’s newest masterpiece. The movie is Anderson’s most adven- turous and large-scale film yet, following the exciting, and sometimes ridiculous, shenanigans of a lobby boy and his manager/personal tutor. The film seems less serious than some of Anderson’s previous work and feels more like an imaginative story he created when he was young. The tale is large and clearly fictional, giving it a fun and light feel. Compared to his older work, such as “Rushmore,” Anderson finally has his ideal budget, allowing him to make the same stunning and original movies the way he has always wanted them, with all of the small details that add complex beauty. As expected, “The Grand Budapest Hotel” is filled with perfectly symmetrical shots, absolutely gorgeous cinematography, and, of course, color coordinated rooms, costumes and everything in between. Parents of 2014 Seniors! Taking place in a gorgeous fictional hotel and the snowy mountains of the Honor your graduate European alpines in the 1930’s, this proves to be one of the most visually appealing movies to come out with a senior ad in the Rachel... in quite awhile. The acting is nearly flawless and the cast features just about everyone who has ever We are so proud starred in one of Anderson’s film at one point or another, from Bill Murray to Jason Schwartzman. “The of you! Grand Budapest Hotel” is one of the most entertaining and beautiful movies to come out this year and GO is sure to please nearly anyone who sees it. central STAMPEDE BRONCOS! -Reviewed by Devon Wilson email [email protected] for info Love, Mom, Dad, Katie, and Marlana [email protected] April 25, 2014 vibe 9 Number of bad films on Netflix increases vibe editor

D e v o n W i l s o n [email protected]

Netflix has become one of the most widely popular sources of modern entertainment and has, in some cases, started to replace traditional cable television. With hundreds of movies and TV shows available to stream with no commercials for only $7.99, Netflix may seem like the smartest choice for watching TV and movies. However, sometimes it is very important to remember quality over quantity. While it is true that Netflix has an enormous number of movies and TV shows available, the ratio of bad to good movies is practically 10 to one. Anyone who has used Netflix Instant can more than likely attest to how easy it is to waste hours of your time browsing through the collection of movies looking for something worth watching. The acting is subpar at best, and the filming tech- which is exactly what the title implies (is the more makes up for the dozens of bad movies on Netf- Each genre or category has a huge range of se- niques are usually not far from the average home- likely answer that someone in Netflix happened lix. But they also ensure finding those few decent lections to choose from, but the majority of these made videos found crammed in an attic corner to to stumble upon these gems while searching for movies is as hard as possible. By separating ev- choices are random picks no one has heard of. be forgotten. movies which ownership rights cost the absolute erything into categories mixed with significantly However, it is not the fact that no one has Where Netflix manages to find these films lowest amount of money?) Regardless, someone more obscure and bad movies than good, they heard of these movies that makes them bad. The is truly a mystery. I’m curious about those who made the decision to throw whatever movies they are able to ensure everyone has to spend as much majority of them are low-budget sequels that nev- purchased the rights to films like “Frogs,” the could find on Netflix and call it good. time as possible scrolling through the endless list er should have happened or sometimes just truly 1970s horror movie about killer frogs seeking The executives at Netflix use the logic that of worthless films for the great one that could be terrible ideas that someone spent money making. their revenge, or “Hansel & Gretel Get Baked,” one or two decent movies every once in a while at the end of the list, but probably isn’t. The reality TV craze Tweeting new tunes

BY LUCY FORSTER The Voice,” freshman Hibba Shammas said. BY DEVON WILSON way to interact with fans and people worldwide. [email protected] Reality TV is a world phenomenon. Yet, there [email protected] This simple form of interaction takes little to no Staff Writer is still doubt as to if reality TV is actually reality. Vibe Editor effort, but is a simple way to build up a fan base While some people completely believe the she- and provide fans with a feeling of personal con- From housewives to duck hunters, reality tele- nanigans, others have yet to give into the facade. For many years, social media has been a major nection to the band, which tends to add to a fan’s vision seems to be taking over. With TV networks “The shows and people are fake,” Imanse said. aspect of the way news and information travels. appreciation and connection to an artist and their dedicated to reality shows, the question remains: “I still love it though.” It has also made sharing and discovering music work. It also provides a way to get out statements why do people love it so much? Besides the possible scripting and somewhat significantly easier than it used to be. and information that need to be publically shared, “Every episode is different and interesting,” unrealistic scenarios, one thing is still for sure - From posting a cover of a song on Facebook such as tour updates or information regarding the freshman Zach Franks said. the Kardashians are reality royalty. for your close friends and relatives to hear, to re- progress they are making in terms of new and “They’re (reality TV stars) ridiculous,” sopho- “Oh yeah, I love the Kardashians,” Franks blogging someone else’s original music on Tum- upcoming releases in music. more Kelly Imanse said. said. blr, social media has been there to help any and “Nobody acts like that.” From their stupid- all musicians get their work out there and heard. The question has been ity, lack of doing any- After growing up surrounded by technology, answered. Reality stars thing to be actually it now seems practically impossible to do any- are crazy. No matter how famous, and show- thing without it. It has forever changed our world hard people try, no one ing off their money, and will only change further and continue mak- will amount to the selfish, everyone finds some- ing our lives easier. Even websites like Twitter spoiled attitude of a Kar- thing to love about have played major roles in world events. Social dashian, or the be able to the over-hyped fam- media websites have also become a major output live the valley girl lifestyle ily. for aspiring musicians and have impacted the of Whitney Port. Scripting is a huge lives of musicians forever. “This is going to be possibility within Musicians have been constantly struggling to Finding what makes you and your music dif- bad,” Imanse said about reality TV, but that share their music with the world and be heard. ferent and interesting is the key in this day and listing her favorite reality doesn’t mean that While it may be apparent that technology has age, where hundreds of thousands of songs of all shows. “I watch reruns of people will ever revolutionized the world, music included, social types of genres are constantly being written and The Hills, that’s how much stop watching. Real- media itself does not get enough credit for the eventually released. With social media, it becomes I love reality TV.” ity shows are able to massive impact it has made. Sharing everything easier to find a distinct voice that will help you Reality TV does not just change and evolve. has become as simple as clicking a button. This stand out from the crowd. reach out to one culture. By adding new cast applies to the endless hours and hard work put With advances in music and technology hap- Spin-offs of shows such as members to spice up into music. Musicians have finally found an ef- pening constantly, it becomes easy to find yourself American Idol, The Voice, and Jersey Shore are the drama, or by completely switching out the ficient way to put out the new music they have lost with no ideas of where to head, but thanks to created around the world. cast to give the show a new spin, reality TV will worked so hard on. social media, musicians will always have some- “I watch Arab Idol and the Arabic version of always be popular. Additionally, social media provides an easy where to try and start. 10 sports April 25, 2014 Students take advantage of travel ball PEDs enhance Various players spend the off-season building hoops skills the game BY MATT LIGHTFOOT [email protected] Staff Writer staff Some students enjoy playing baseball come spring time; other students enjoy doing track and writer field, but for sophomore Dan Bowditch, junior Marcus Moore and senior Rodney Turner, it’s basketball all year-round. These athletes partici- B r i a n T a g g e tt pate in both high school basketball and travel [email protected] basketball during their high school off-season. Whether they are playing in front of the Portage Central fans or in front of college coaches from Baseball is a dying sport. The popular- all over the Midwest, they enjoy shooting hoops ity of America’s pastime has been replaced by and playing against much higher talent. widespread enthusiasm for fast-paced sports like For as much fun as playing travel basketball football, hockey and basketball. But why blame is, the commitment level is very high. Bowditch, the naysayers of the nine inning game? a guard for Mishawaka Basketball Association Three hours of a game that may end in 1-0 (MBA), practices twice a week in Mishawaka, score? No thank you. Widely anticipated games? Indiana, which is an hour drive from Portage. Those are now match-ups between star pitchers The sophomore spends about 10 hours on travel like Justin Verlander and David Price that end basketball every week. with a handful of players succeeding in reach- According to Turner, travel basketball offers ing the first base 90-feet away from home plate. players great exposure and helps them tremen- Baseball’s last popularity spike occurred about a dously by getting their names out to college decade and a half ago. Why? Drugs. scouts and allowing them to be invited to par- It is not that big of a deal. Popeye used spin- ticipate in exposure camps such as Elite 80. Also, ach, the Looney Tunes juiced up on “Michael’s after a scout watches a player in travel basketball, Hattie Foley/STAMPEDE Special Stuff” during halftime in Space Jam, so they usually attend some of their high school why can’t David Ortiz use human-growth-hor- games for further recruitment. mones to gain an advantage? Time to Hoop: Senior Rodney Turner, junior Marcus Moore and sophomore Dan Bowditch put on their Turner enjoys playing travel because the Fans love watching players pumped with competition is much better, he is able to play game faces for the upcoming AAU basketball season. artificial testosterone jack homeruns over 400 against the best players at every tournament and feet, but since these drugs were eliminated, it opens up his recruiting option more than high exposes you more than high school ball,” Moore lis and even Louisville, KY. During the travel baseball has evolved into a sport that receives school does. said. basketball season, the teams play tournaments minimal attention. If anything, performance- Bowditch agrees about the higher prevalence Although all three enjoy playing the whole every weekend, starting on Saturday and going enhancing drugs should be forced into player’s of recruiting in American Athletic Union (AAU) year with help from travel basketball, they also until Sunday evening, depending on their team’s bloodsteams. travel basketball. enjoy playing for the high school team because of success. Yes, there are health repercussions and dam- “AAU in my opinion probably recruits better the great bond they create with their teammates Bowditch’s team has been invited to play at age to the integrity of the sport, but how sweet than high school ball, because more talent is in that is unattainable through travel basketball. a national tournament in Orlando, FL, but due is a home run that is launched off the bat at over AAU,” Bowditch said. “Kids that like basketball “Through school ball, you can make a really to some predicaments his team plans to attend 120 mph? Ticket sales, television deals and over- and really pursue basketball as opposed to kids good bond with the guys that are here because smaller tournaments that are closer in proximity. all revenue would all increase. Mundane games, who just play for fun for the school.” you see them at school and at basketball,” Travel basketball may open up recruiting and fines and suspensions would all decrease. Moore, who plays for the southwest Michigan Bowditch said. expose players more, but in the end, these guys Baseball players that could be mistaken for based Elite Skills, also agrees. Although these three play on fairly local play travel because it’s a way to be able to play pro-wrestlers would improve America’s pastime “A lot of coaches get the opportunity to watch teams, travel tournaments are played all over the all year, it helps them greatly improve their game an unfathomable amount. Besides, how else you play at the tournaments, so it definitely Midwest, ranging from Chicago to Indianapo- and they quite simply love the game. could the Chicago Cubs win the World Series?

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Bryce w. General StudieS April 25, 2014 sports 11 Mustang logo evolution since 1922 BY JARED LUTZ a Wild West vibe to the Mustang, with cowboys Northern preferred a mascot with a northern current logo they use today, Alburtus contacted [email protected] and wagons scattered throughout the school orientation, which is why they became the the dean of K-College to find out who created the Sports Editor halls and yearbooks. Later, in the 1970s, the Wild "Huskies." logo. The dean West Until put Alburtus The crisp, clean Mustang logo that has come theme 12 years in touch with to symbolize Portage Central has been decades began to ago, there Paul Sizer, a in the making. deterio- was never well-known Portage Agricultural High School was estab- rate and an official comic book and lished in 1922 without a mascot. The first mascot evolved mustang graphic design came around the early 1950s, according to swim into a logo artist native to coach Jim Schafer. more associ- Kalamazoo. “No one knows when we became the Mus- powerful ated with He is also tangs,” Schafer said. mustang. Portage responsible for Principal Eric Alburtus said, “Clearly one One of Central. the current Loy of our colors was established by then, blue, but the first Coaches Norrix logo. we were not the Mustangs yet.” Throughout mustangs of sports Albur- the 1920s and 1930s, the only distinction about to show teams tus opened Portage Central was the color blue. The best the evolu- used the idea to working theory for when Portage became the tion of the Mustang was the bucking mustang what mustang logo was available to the printing students, who submitted sketches of mustangs Mustangs was in the early 1950s. In the 1950s, a painted on the gym wall in the 1970s. company or what they saw best fit for their team. as brainstorming ideas for Sizer and Alburtus to new superintendent was hired, who proposed Also during the 1970s, Portage Central Athletic Director Jim Murray adopted a stallion create the mustang. Ultimately, Alburtus wanted the idea of adopted a horseshoe to coordinate with the new biting a hockey stick, which was taken from a perception of speed in the logo which is how a school Mustang. Arguments arose after the adoption a previous Canadian hockey team. Volleyball Sizer and Alburtus chose to place a lightning bolt mascot for of the horseshoe, as mustangs do not wear coach Dawn Jaqua still uses the pranc- down the mustang, according Portage horseshoes, they are wild. These arguments are ing Mustang for her volleyball program to Alburtus. high school. still ongoing today because (which is the Mustang she The logo is trademarked A majority some sports programs still use graduated from Portage because Alburtus feels the of the teach- the horseshoe along with the Central with) and Schafer student body should receive ers teaching Mustang. primarily still uses the proceeds for any sales of the at Portage It took until the mid-1960s Mustang the volleyball Mustang logo. Meijer and High school for the Mustang to actually program uses because Wal-Mart both sell Portage were in catch on with athletics. Jerseys that is the Mustang he Central apparel, and with the training, and signs only showed "PC" has grown accustomed to trademarked logo, a cut of to eventually move on to teach at Western as opposed to the Mustang throughout his time coach- proceeds from the merchan- Michigan University, so Portage High School logo. The gym floor in the old ing at Portage Central. dise should go back to the had strong ties with WMU. In the 1930s WMU building was initially created Western Michigan University school. Meijer has a deal with Portage Central, changed their mascot to the Bronco and with with a "PC" logo in the center. and the Denver Broncos football which accounts for $200-$300 annually, and is Portage’s strong ties to WMU, Portage then be- When Northern and team both updated their logo 12 used for graduation costs. Wal-Mart has been came the Mustangs by popular vote, according Central split in 1964, Northern did not want to years ago. As a result, Alburtus also wanted one less cooperative and began using a blue and gold to Schafer. keep the Mustang mascot, and that was logical official logo for Portage Central, so 12 years ago, Denver Bronco logo to avoid giving proceeds Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, there was as Portage Central stayed in the same building. when Kalamazoo College changed its logo to the back to the school, according to Alburtus. PC softball stacked with talent, but lacks depth “Our team re- pionship. With only 23 players in spects Mattawan With 782 wins, Monroe finished his career in as a team, but we the top 15 in the nation for career wins. the program, the team are definitely very Upcoming Home Games “They’re very experienced in the game and competitive once have seen just about everything, so everyone relies on the three it is game time,” respects them, ” Wyman said. “With their experi- April 29 vs. Kalamazoo Central ence, we should go far.” college-bound seniors junior Brooke Wyman said. @ 4 p.m. Winning with different leadership has not for success this year “Mattawan been a problem for the team. has always been So far this season, the Mustangs are 8-1 under one our biggest 8 4 Hamilton. BY BRIAN TAGGETT competitors,” May vs. Vicksburg @ p.m. The winning record can be credited to the [email protected] sophomore Kim large number of skilled players. Staff Writer Verduzco said. With seniors committed to play for Grand “They have a lot May 13 vs. Portage Northern Valley State University, University of Michigan- It ended with a home run. A walkoff home of solid players @ 4 p.m. Dearborn and Michigan State University, talent is run over Portage Northern’s center field fence in and a very good not the issue for the team. However, depth is. the district title game against Mattawan ended coach.” There are only 23 players between junior the Mustang’s softball season last spring. Mat- Until then, the varsity and varsity. tawan continued to succeed in the playoffs, and Mustangs will try May 22 vs. Coloma @ 4 p.m. Only two freshman joined the program this in turn won the state championship. to remain a domi- season and due to the meek amount of players, This season, Mattawan is still the biggest nant program in no cuts were made during tryouts. competition in the state. Southwest Michigan head varsity coach and return with impressive “It puts us in a jam if someone gets hurt or The Michigan High School Softball Coaches with help from new coaches Tom Hamilton and résumés. sick,” junior Brittany Brown said. “We have 23 Association ranked the team located a few Tom Monroe. Hamilton, a graduate of Portage Central, was good players so we’ll have a good season.” minutes from exit 66 on I-94 as number one in Bernie Christopher, the former varsity coach, the Mustang’s head coach in 2010 and had won Wyman agrees. “It’ll be difficult for our the state. resigned following the 2013 season with a career four state championships with Portage Northern program because we have to make sure everyone However, the ninth-ranked Mustang softball record of 88-17-2. earlier in his career. stays healthy,” Wyman said. “Hopefully next team is prepared to battle Mattawan this spring. Hamilton serves as the head coach and Mon- Monroe, a member of the Portage Central year we’ll have a better turnout, because we On May 1, the Mustangs will face the Wildcats in roe is an assistant. Both coached in the Portage athletic Hall of Fame, coached from 1972 until have a very talented program and would like to a much anticipated rematch at Mattawan. Central program prior to Christopher’s tenure as 2007 and led the Mustangs to a 1977 state cham- continue to grow throughout the years.” 12 stampede April 25, 2014

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