Bowlers Ask for Knight Support Page 11 Relationships Page 19 at Loy Norrix Life Volume 53 Issue 3 Loy Norrix High School 606 E. Kilgore Rd Kalamazoo, MI 49001 February 2013 Varsity Basketball Captain Puts the Team First Ben Dunham you can tell that he is right. At Knight Life News every game, the players give it If you’ve been to a Loy everything they’ve got. Norrix Men’s basketball One of the team’s biggest game in the last 4 years, you successes was the big win probably know who Bishop against cross-town rivals Rocco-Robinson is. But do Kalamazoo Central on January you really know him? Despite 26th. Prior to this year, Loy his big plays and impressive Norrix had not won a game skills, he is a very different against Kalamazoo Central in person than you might think. seven years. Bishop has played varsity “That was just another basketball since his sophomore game on the schedule. We year. He is the team’s leading knew what we had to do, and scorer and broke one thousand we came in and got it done.” career points this year. Known said Bishop about the game. for his ability to both play He repeated over and over down low under the net and again that the team’s hard shoot from outside, he is truly work and professional attitude a powerful weapon on the very is what pulled them through. successful Loy Norrix Men’s He also gives credit to the team. fans off the court. “This team is a family, “[The crowd] makes us you know? We play together who we are. We feed off of all year long and everybody their fire and they feed off of hangs out with everybody,” ours. Games just don’t feel said Bishop, as he waved and right if [the students] aren’t said goodbye to one of his there. We have to kind of get teammates. the fire from ourselves, and It’s easy to tell that the players that’s not easy,” said Robinson. have a close bond. They The crowd he is referring all walked out of the locker to is this year’s new student room in groups of 3 or more, section. They all wear laughing and joking with one matching black shirts and have Anthony Foti / Knight Life News another. There is no question a huge array of chants and Robinson crashes the boards to get a rebound against the Battle Creek Central Bearcats on February 8th, 2013. that they spend much more cheers that keep the team fired Despite being ill, Bishop put his best effort into the game. The Knights fell short to BCC with a score of 43 to 57. time together off of the court up. than they do on it. Bishop said that the secret to “People work at their the team’s success could not be best when you know the guy placed in just one source. He next to you is working at the thinks that the team is winning same thing. On this team, we because of a combination of definitely have that,” Robinson hard work by the players, the said. coaches, and the support of If you’ve been to a game, their fans.

Loy Norrix Men’s Basketball Upcoming Events Date School Previous 2/15 Marshall (A) 1/11: 58-56 (W) 2/19 Battle Creek Central (A) 2/22 Richland Gull Lake (A) 1/18: 67-59 (W) 2/28 Lansing Sexton (A) Overall 10 wins MHSAA Districs vs. Portage Northern Anthony Foti / Knight Life News Anthony Foti / Knight Life News 3 losses March 4th, 2013 Senior guard Darrion Mullen obeserves The Loy Norrix Mens basketball team gathers to hear the Robinson at the line for a free throw. Robinson pre game national anthem. The Knights come together as a scored a total of 11 points. family both on and off the court.

Index News...... 2-3 A&E...... 4-8 Feature...... 9-15 Opinion...... 16-17 Sports...... 19-20 KNIGHTLIFENEWS.COM 2 News Loy Norrix Annual Blood Drive is Back in Business after Being Cancelled in 2012 Right-To-Work Law Affects Loy Norrix High School Teachers

Rachel Reed Knight Life News The first Right-to-Work laws were passed in the 1940s and 1950s, mostly in the southern states. The Right-to- Work refers to a law that prohibits requiring workers to pay union dues. Union members pay these dues that go towards the cost of bargaining and paying officers. Unions help to unite workers of a similar job in order to have a stronger voice and to provide employment protection. In a union, your employer must also bargain with Lauren McGlinn/Knight Life News you over wages, hours and working Jess Moshoginis holds Brenden Groggle’s hand while getting his blood drawn. This photo was taken durring the 2011 Blood Drive. conditions. Currently, 24 states have approved Right-to-Work legislation that limits Cherell Langford There will be a lot more people unions, Michigan being one of those 24 Allie Creamer/Knight Life News Knight Life News who want to donate this year because as of December 2013. Sue Mills, an opponent of the Right-To-Work The American Red Cross is one of of that fact that the blood drive was Proponents of the Right-To-Work laws, greets her students at the door. She cancelled last year. always makes sure her students’ ID badges the biggest blood donating agencies in believe that this legislation will are on and hats are off. America. It’s a nationwide network of “I never thought about donating increase wages, that it is morally more than 650 chapters and 36 blood blood, but I saw how many people right because it doesn’t make people Mills, who has been teaching at service regions dedicated to saving were affected from not being able to have to pay to support a cause that Loy Norrix High school for 14 years lives. last year, so this year I will be signing they don’t believe in, and creates jobs and has been a teacher for 16 years According to the Red Cross, one up to save a life,” said senior Nate by attracting businesses. It attracts total is also opposed to the Right-To- pint of blood can save up to three lives, Coleman. businesses because it often lowers Work law. She had a hard time forming so it is very important that people Social Studies teacher and National wages and benefits, by decreasing an opinion on the Right-To-Work donate their blood due to less than 38 Honors Society advisor Matt Porco, the likelihood that employers will based on how the law was passed. The percent of the population not being oversaw the blood drive. He still be required to negotiate with their law was signed against tremendous able to donate blood. views the blood drive as the biggest employees. Opponents believe that opposition and Mills feels disgusted Many are not able to give blood event for the NHS. There are different the Right-to-Work law will decrease with the way it was passed. due to religious background, disease, committees when it comes to everyone wages, lower all employees’ wages While the law was being debated unclean piercings, pregnancy, recent in NHS being a part of the blood drive. since there are few strong union shops upon by state lawmakers, thousands childbirth, and age limit. Some are The publicity committee spreads to compete with. of union member rallied outside of the happy about not being able to donate the word about the blood drive and This law will effect many, including Michigan’s state capital opposing the their blood, but some get disappointed. encourages people to donate. The Kalamazoo Public School teachers. Right-To-Work law. “When I found out that I couldn’t entertainment committee performs Many teachers were against this law “I feel like it was shoved down our give blood I felt useless, but even different skits during the blood drive because it may reduce their hourly throats. It was very unethical,” said though I was not able to give blood, assembly in order to inform students wage and it affected teacher tenure, Mills. I still thought about the lives that about the blood drive. which refers to a worker’s seniority She feels as if not enough studies could’ve been saved by others,” said At the assembly, students sign up in their job and their right to not have were done first on whether or not it senior Trevor Greer. to donate blood and the scheduling their job terminated without justible will help our economy. “Proof will be Last year the Loy Norrix blood committee organizes the times. The cause. in the pudding,” said Mills. drive was cancelled due to Red canteen committee provides food for Art teacher Cindy VanLieu and Although many tend to see the Cross workers going on strike. There donators to eat after they give blood. computer teacher Sue Mills are two negative side to the Right-to-Work were a lot of students and people in With a lot of help from the Red of many Loy Norrix teachers who are law, there may be some benefits to it as the community who wanted to give Cross, the Loy Norrix National Honor upset about the new law. well. blood last year here at Loy Norrix but Society (NHS) has hosted the blood VanLieu, who has been teaching at Ron Fuller, a retiring Kalamazoo couldn’t. drive for over 30 years. Volunteers Loy Norrix for 13 years and has been a Regional Educational Service Agency “ I was kind of scared at first donated 84 Pints of blood in 2011 and teacher for 43 years total finds herself chief, sees that the law creates a because I was going to be giving blood (NHS) hopes that more will be donated distressed by the Right-to-Work law. window of opportunities to Michigan for the first time. When I heard that this year. “It has caused a great deal of school districts. He is a strong advocate the blood drive was cancelled, it kind Blood is the most precious gift that psychological stress,” said VanLieu. of year around schools and sees the of hurt me and made me want to give anyone can give to another person, VanLieu opposes the law for Right-to-Work law as an opportunity more because I knew that I was going the gift of life. A decision to donate several reasons, partially because it for school districts to make this to be saving lives if I would’ve had your blood can save a life, or even causes general workers to lose income happen. the chance to give blood, ”said senior several if your blood is separated into and benefits and it destroys unions. Fuller also understands that there Anajia Williams. its components. Donating only takes Also because this law severely affects will be a downward pressure of the On Monday, April 29th, 2013 about ten minutes per person. There teachers, causing them to lose major cost of union dues. He sees this as the Loy Norrix community will be is no limit on saving lives so sign up parts of their contract that include a positive, saying that if he were a donating blood in the back gym for and donate. Safe blood saves lives and loss of tenure, loss of the right to teacher, he’d only want to pay for what the annual blood drive run by LNHS improves health. transfer and due process which is the impacts him. National Honor Society (NHS) along legal requirement that that states must with the Red Cross. respect all legal rights of a person.

NEWS KNIGHTLIFENEWS.COM3 Guess Who’s Back, Back, Back? Flu Season! The Most Germ Infested Places in Norrix Revealed

Bacterial evidence appeared on the petri dishes after As the flu has been swiping through the state, Knight sitting in an incubater for about a week. Bathrooms and popular areas were revealed as the most germ Life reporters thought it would be a good idea to Erin Romph / Knight Life News investigate various locations on campus for bacteria. infested locations in Loy Norrix. Senior basketball captain, Sierra James, tries her best to maintain good health during her final season at Loy Norrix. She does so by washing her hands frequently throughout her daily routines.

Erin Romph can be spread, through the hands and through the shots, she keeps the flu away by maintaining healthy Knight Life News air. Because people use their hands for just about hygiene. Aa-chooo! Flu season is back and hitting harder everything, I’m sure you can only imagine how many Doctor Stephanie Somers of Trestlewood than ever. The flu symptoms include fever, fatigue, germs are on your hands. Then you give someone a Pediatrics gives some professional advice of how to body aches, congestion, headaches, and cough. These high five in the hallway? Gross! avoid spreading the flu. symptoms are highly contagious and are spreading Hands are not the only way to transfer bacteria. “If you have a fever, you just really should stay rapidly, especially throughout schools. Student and Very commonly, viruses are spread through water home,” said Somers. However, just because you feel faculty absences due to the flu have caused many droplets in the air. These infected droplets can travel fine does not always mean that you are. “The tricky problems for schools. from your mouth up to six feet almost instantly. thing is you can still be contagious before showing Michigan is one of states with some of the highest There are many ways in which you can avoid symptoms,” Somers continued. numbers of reported illnesses. In the first two weeks spreading the flu. First, cover your mouth! If you The key to avoiding the flu? “Wash your hands of January, the number of doctor visits was especially have to sneeze or cough, be sure to shield your germs frequently,” said Somers. She also advises to keep high. In southwest Michigan, the amount of doctor from others. Second, keep your distance from people. your hands off your face and fingers out of your visits skyrocketed in comparison to the rest of the If someone tells you they are not feeling well, mouth. “Having good nutrition, eating lots of fruits state, resulting in a total of 12 hospitalizations so far by all means, create some space. Lastly, wash your and vegetables, helps support your immune system,” this season. hands and disinfect surfaces frequently. This is also Somers suggested. Since November 2012, there have been a total a great way to avoid catching the flu. Many people Even though many people maintain their healthy of 87 Loy Norrix students reported absent due to flu carry around the pocket hand sanitizers and use hygiene by washing their hands and eating nutritious like symptoms. The week of January 7 was the worst it often, which is an excellent habit. One of these meals, the flu does not always stay away. For this week yet with a total of 36 student absences. And people is senior Ciara Krimmel. reason, Somers recommends a flu vaccine. these are only the reported illnesses. There have also The mini hand sanitizer is “so convenient,” said This 2012-2013 flu season has been more intense been many Loy Norrix faculty absences due to the Krimmel, “I can put it in my purse, backpack, or than in past years. Somers said, “This year’s flu flu; however, the exact number is unknown. pocket.” epidemic is earlier than usual. It started in late The number of absences will continue to grow Krimmel believes that the disinfecting tactic is the November but definitely in December. [We have if people do not take the time to simply wash their best one to avoid catching the flu. “I took those little been] seeing more people who are really sick with hands or cover their mouths after a sneeze or cough. Lysol wipes and wiped down my entire backpack,” it.” The flu is “more severe this year,” Somers Ironically, those are the two easiest ways bacteria said Krimmel. Because Krimmel does not get flu concluded. 4 Arts & Entertainment I want my, I want my MTV! Hollywood MTV’s Shift to Less Music Videos Flashes Back but can’t Look Forward

Shakira Green Knight Life News Anthony Foti Rushing home to make sure you Knight Life News didn’t miss the music video, waiting to see your favorite artist appear, and Remember those movies that got wishing that you could have that sweet all the attention in the last decade? hair. The anticipation, anxiety and hope “Red Dawn,” “Footloose,” “The has slowly declined when it comes to Great Gatsby,” “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,” “Planet of the music videos on MTV. Photo Credted to Shakira Green Music Television has been around Apes,” “Friday the 13th,” and “The since 1981 playing the top tracks in the This was the original MTV opening screen shot. The shot featured the launch of Apollo 11 Karate Kid,” are all great classics with the words “Ladies and Gentlemen, Let’s Rock and Roll” plays in the background. music industry. that we know and love. All have been “MTV just played music videos all time. Majority of the music was pop, Now, since not many music videos reproduced in the new millennium. day. It was exciting, it created hope,” rock, and metal. Since people wanted are played the only trends on MTV are Movies like these that the generation said history teacher Matthew Porco. more music videos and musicians, getting pregnant, how to be “Buckwild” before us loved have been remade for When MTV started Porco was 8 different genres were later added. and finding out what a Guido is. The a quick buck. The true creativity and years old. As the Jukebox hero of his With the different genres of music reduction of music videos has made originality of movies has been lost for time, he checked in on the videos and being played there were the different many people wonder why MTV is the thirst of money. different artists appearing. trends and clothing style each genre called Music Television if most of the Now who is the real culprit? Both “I may have watched it more often had. Teens watched MTV to keep up programs are not music related. Hollywood and the audience are to than average,” continued Porco. with the trends. If you missed out on “MTV just mirrors the shift in blame. The largest part of the movie Like most people during the 80’s he a video, you missed out on the latest entertainment,” said Griffin. industry is money. When producers was a fan of MJ. trends. Some of the trends developed MTV is now playing music videos want to make a new film, they need “I supposedly had a sign on my came from the genre you listened too. from 6 a.m. - 8.00 a.m. After 8 a.m investors. But investors don’t want room door saying ‘If you don’t like “I watched MTV for the trends. I television shows like “Teen Mom,” to put a lot of money into a new MJ you can’t come in my room,’” said wanted the preppy look,” said Brian “True Life,” “Ridiculousness” and movie idea that could turn into a bust. Porco. Neel. more non- music related shows come They are scared of possibly losing There were no additional shows For guys the preppy look was on. everything on an original movie that of any kind. If you missed the music usually a button-down shirt, boat In the early 2000’s MTV only had could be awful and something viewers video at an earlier time there may have shoes, and nice pants and of course, a sprinkle of non–music related shows hate. been a chance that you could catch it the popped up collars that Hall and such as "Road Rules," "The Real Movie remakes can be good, but again later, but who wanted to wait for Oates had. The genre associated with World," and the animated show "Beavis there is no sense making something later? One of the first videos to air was this was the new wave synth pop artists and Butthead." Most music videos new to replace something that is “Video Killed the Radio Star by The like Duran Duran, A-Ha and Human come on other branches of MTV like already great. The visual aspects are Buggles.” The video represented the League. If you listened to hip-hop, you MTV II, MTV Jams, MTV Tres and always better in remakes because new way to listen to music. most likely wanted those Adidas and more. With the certain cable systems technology has taken such a leap “If you take the most famous artist jumpsuits that Run DMC wore. Punk those channels are not even available. forward we can now play more with now and multiply them 50 times or rockers had the spiky hair like Johnny Most people only watch MTV to our opportunities, just like James more, you’ll have Michael Jackson,” Rotten, a pair of skinnies, a band watch the shows that come on the Cameron’s “Avatar” which is almost said yearbook teacher Steve Griffin. t-shirt, and jackets that were either jean channel. As a result, people do not all computer generated but based Griffin was, and still is, a huge music or leather since The Clash and The watch MTV for music, they go to on the faces of real actors. That is fan of the 80’s. Being on top of the Ramones had them. YouTube. With this being the case most an original movie that has had huge newest hits and videos was his thing, Let's not forget those tight leather musicians do not really have flashy success with the new technology. but MJ was his favorite. jeans, long hair and tight t-shirts that music videos or pay as much to create Although new technology may “In 7th grade I would try to dance Twisted Sister and Guns N' Roses them. seem great, acting is the critical and look like Michael Jackson,” said wore. That was every glam-metal “This generation is missing out on component of a quality movie. Classic Griffin. heads’ dream. the music,” said Neel. movies usually have incredible actors One of the most anticipated videos Mostly every girl wanted to have The lack of influential music videos who are the real reason movies are was Michael Jackson’s “Thriller.” The the Madonna fingerless gloves, leg could be the cause. There may also good. A movie can have great special fact that the video was 15 minutes long warmers, miniskirt, and earrings that be fact that music videos aren't really effects, but if there isn’t a good actor was mind blowing. came down to their shoulder with the played on MTV when you want to see we can connect with, it’s a bust. “I had the curly hair and the gloves. possible leggings. Madonna, Cyndi them. The last music related show that One of the saddest things I see in I even won a look-a-like contest in Lauper, Joann Jett and Tina Turner most people want to see on MTV is the theaters today are re-releases, or when Grand Rapids,” continued Griffin. were mostly idols for teenage girls. VMAs and maybe the Woodie Awards. producers take a movie and make into Of course, it would be hard to All of this was figured out through These only come on once a year, while 3-D or high definition and sell it back believe that musicians such as Michael music videos thanks to MTV. What every other day is overrun by reality on the market. Disney has played this Jackson had to push to get onto MTV. they wore, how they danced, and shows. card recently with the re-release of It was harder for black artists like MJ everything in between played a part. “I’ll watch MTV when I want some “Finding Nemo” and “Monsters Inc.” to get on MTV since his style of music brain junk food,” said Porco. That is The influence of the musician was see HOLLYWOOD page 7 wasn't what MTV was playing at the determined by their music video. exactly what MTV has become. Arts & Entertainment KNIGHTLIFENEWS.COM5 Attend the Tale of Sweeney Todd Nikia Jackson Sweeny Todd opened on Knight Life News Broadway in 1979 and in the West “Attend the tale of Sweeny Todd. end (mainstream professional theatre His skin was pale his eye was odd. staged in the large theatres of London) He shaved the faces of gentlemen in 1980. who never thereafter were heard of again. He trod a path that few have There have been several revivals trod did Sweeny Todd? The demond of “Sweeny Todd” and it has been barber of Fleet Street.” presented in opera companies. “Sweeny Todd” has won a Tony Loy Norrix High School is doing Award for Best Musical and an Oliver “Sweeny Todd The Demon Barber Award for Beast new Musical. of Fleet Street” as this school year’s Sophomore Joriah Fleming plays spring musical. Tobias Ragg. He is the voice of reason Sweeny Todd is a horror musical in the show. Toby is an orphan who is about a man named Benjamin Barker made a servant of Adolfo Pirelli, the also known as Sweeny Todd who rival of Sweeney Todd. teams up with a pie shop owner by “I like how my character is the name of Mrs. Lovett, to murder innocent but not ignorant to what is his customers and turn them into meat Brian Wolfe / Guest Photographer going on around him. Aside from Mrs. pies. Loy Norrix students spent at least two hours every day rehearsing “Sweeney Todd” since Lovett, he is the only one who knows “He’s very persevering, he knows auditions. They spent up to 25 hours a week rehearsing during tech week. who Todd really is,” said Fleming. what he wants and he’s going to get Junior Amyre Dennis is playing the what he wants whatever the cost,” said beggar woman and Lucy Barker. She junior Joe Santamaria, who is playing than the lines because I had heard the does it once or twice a day. She also goes over her lines for thirty minutes Sweeney Todd. music before, and the music tells a looks over them after tests. everyday, and she always says her lines Joe spends about an hour depending story,” Said Joe. “I think my character is so in character as a way to help her to on the day, going over his lines and Grace Santamaria is also a junior deliciously complicated. She’s full remember them. music. When learning his lines, he at Loy Norrix High School and she is of contradictions, she’s definitely the “I like that you always feel bad for breaks them up into smaller pieces. playing Mrs. Lovett. It takes her about driving force of canibalism and she’s the beggar women and Lucy Barker,” “The music is easier to remember a half an hour to go over lines and she funny,” said Santamaria. said Dennis.

10 Things You Should The Kalamazoo Promise The Kalamazoo Promise Know About The Promise Eligible Colleges Eligible Universities 1. The Kalamazoo Promise is for ALL students of the Kalamazoo Public Schools Kalamazoo Valley Community College Western Michigan University (KPS). Alpena Community College Central Michigan University Bay de Noc Community College Eastern Michigan University 2. You must reside within the boundaries Delta College of KPS. Glen Oaks Community College Ferris State University 3. You must have at least all of the high Gogebic Community College Kendall College of Art & Design school years (9-12) in KPS (enrollment Grand Rapids Community College Grand Valley State University & residency) and graduate from KPS Henry Ford Community College (Central / Loy Norrix / Phoenix). Jackson Community College Lake Superior State University Michigan State University 4. The Kalamazoo Promise will not end. It is Kellogg Community College set up to go on for many years to come. Kirtland Community College Michigan Technological University Lake Michigan College Northern Michigan University 5. The Kalamazoo Promise is a 4 year Lansing Community College scholarship (a bachelor degree or 130 Macomb Community College Oakland University credits, whichever occurs first). Mid Michigan Community College Saginaw Valley State University 6. You have ten years from the time you Monroe County Community College University of Michigan graduate from high school to use your Montcalm Community College Wayne State University Promise and can start and stop any time. Mott Community College 7. The Kalamazoo Promise covers tuition Muskegon Community College and mandatory fees. North Central Michigan College Northwestern Michigan College 8. Students sign up for The Kalamazoo Great Lakes Maritime College Promise at the beginning of their senior Oakland Community College year. Meetings are held for all seniors Bob Jorth is available in the Loy Norrix each fall. There are two simple forms to Schoolcraft College guidance office on Thursday mornings for fill out for The Kalamazoo Promise. Southwestern Michigan College appointments or can be reached at: St. Clair County Community College 9. There is an appeal process for students Washtenaw Community College (269)337-0037 during their senior year, especially for hardship cases (e.g., custody, death in the Wayne County Community College or family, and foster care placement). West Shore Community College [email protected] 10. All students using the kalamazoo promise at KVCC may attend part-time. 6 Arts & Entertainment Online Relationships Sweep the Public Brianna Leip Knight Life News “This is high school, it’s not eHarmony.com,” senior Jovaughn Carver said referring to the common phenomena that are romantic online relationships Carver as well as many other students at Loy Norrix will not advocate for such relationships. A newly recent television show on MTV called “Catfish” was produced in order to allow people who are in an online relationship to meet one another on TV. It sounds like an easy concept; however, the meetings are not always as fairytale as it seems. Sometimes the people that are on the other side of the computer screen aren’t the same as who they presented themselves to be. Shakira Green / Knight Life News On this popular TV show, people will be involved in a romantic online relationship but never get the chance to meet Frequent Farters Feel Unloved their mates. The host, Nev Schulman who was also the main character in the movie “Catfish”, helps these internet daters meet Josh Johnson said Camarillo. give them the hug they need Knight Life News their alleged soul mates. Why do we as humans because they smell too stinkin’ It’s very easy to disguise an identity over the internet. People That chili-cheese bean find farting so very funny? bad. can change their names, get different pictures and make up their burrito you ate last night, those Going all the way back to Farting is going to be a part own personalities. The internet is not a safe resource anymore eggs you had for breakfast “The Miller’s Tale” in “The of us for the rest of our lives. because anything can be made up and posted. and that fiber bar for your Canterbury Tales,” farting If we embrace flatulence with Dana Brown, a senior at Loy Norrix, experienced an online morning snack were a ghastly has been used as a humorous open arms, gaseous people relationship that ended quickly after they saw each other in combination. You are sitting in device for comedy instead of will no longer feel alienated. public. English class about to explode. the actual bodily function that Farting contests with prizes, “I enjoyed talking to her online and stuff, but when we met You don’t know how much it is. farting conventions, and her looks just changed all that for me. I was kind of scared when longer you can hold it: all of In “The Miller’s Tale” the FFA (frequent farter’s I saw her face,” Brown said. the sudden, out it comes. Loud while a man thinks he is anonymous) are only steps to a “I thought she was really cool and real when we talked,” as a trumpet, your fart catches kissing a girl’s face, he is society that no longer ridicules Brown said. “Pictures can be really deceiving.” the attention (and the noses) really kissing a man’s butt. farting, but enjoys it for the of your fellow classmates, This is not all, once he begins nasty, smelly bodily function, disrupting the learning to realize he isn’t kissing his that none of us can stop. environment and the farter’s maiden’s face, he is smacked reputation. in the face with a fart from the Farting is the act of passing man’s butt. If you are a frequent farter and intestinal gases through the Keep in mind “The don’t know what to do with anus. The average person will Caterbury Tales” is a required yourself, here’s tips to cover up produce half a liter of fart piece of literature for that irritable bowel of yours: gas per day, translating into English 11 students. While 1. Don’t eat. If you don’t put an average of 14 farts a day. “The Miller’s Tale” is not anything in, nothing can Although commonly referred specifically required, students come out. collider.com to as a bodily function, the act will usually read it anyways. “Don’t blame me if you choose The latest sports scandal in fact has been an issue with online of pooting should be accepted 2. Make noise. If a fart is dating. Notre Dame football player Manti Te’o claimed to have with open noses. poorly” (Chaucer 65) says the comin’ and you cannot author referring to reading been talking to a girl, Lennay Kekua, online who he fell in Loy Norrix senior Titus stop it, start singing really love with. It was reported that they met, talked on the phone, McKenzie is a frequent “The Miller’s Tale.” Through loud to cover up the sound education we are practically communicated with each other’s families and everything seemed offender when it comes to of your gas. legitimate. Te’o received a call that Kekua died from Leukemia passin’ the gas in class. teaching students that farting is funny, not normal. last fall and that created a sense of suspicion. “I fart everyday in every 3. Keep it moving. Get up All of this, however, turned out to be a hoax. The ABC news class,” said McKenzie. Farting is displayed as an right before you are about abnormal function in today’s website interviewed Te’o’s teammate who reported that he had McKenzie also acknowledges to fart and once you spoken to Kekua on the phone before. However when he found the fact that when he releases media too. If you have ever fart in one location, move seen the terribly amusing show out about her death, he assumed that Te’o was just embarrassed his flatulence, the learning to another. The smell may that he only talked to her online and made up many details. environment gets disrupted. “Here Comes Honey Boo follow you for a bit, but Boo,” you know that in the Just like meeting someone on the street or in the store, “My farts are usually silent and sooner or later, the fart all relationships have a chance of failing or succeeding. All smell horrible, kids will cover opening of the show, the entire gas will not be able to family is sitting down smiling matchmaking has its flaws and advantages. According to the their faces, laugh and get off keep up. ABC news website, online relationships however do show task for about 2 or 3 minutes.” at the camera lookin’ cute. Then Honey Boo Boo’s mom statistically more failures than successes. Lia Camarillo, a student 4. Never relax. It is a fact that Senior Travon Williams was also once involved in a romantic in McKenzie’s fifth hour cuts the cheese. The family as soon as a person relaxes showcased on this television online relationship as well. He actively talked to her online, but Basic Marketing class feels and has been holding a fart they never met because she lived far away. no remorse for farter’s whose show makes four thousand in, they will let it slip. This dollars an episode to fart, burp, “You want to see them and spend time with them. It’s not feelings may be hurt, is why many people fart in really a healthy thing in high school. Not being able to travel and “I don’t feel bad for and be gross because it is their sleep. funny and entertaining to us. see the other person kills the relationship,” Williams said. making fun of somebody Online relationships are not all bad though. A lot of adults do who farts because if you’re We do not realize that 5. Embrace your stank. If you farters are constantly put down find love online and may find their soul mate. The key to online openly farting you deserve to fart and have no care in the dating is finding reliable sources and sites. If the person on the be laughed at. [The farter is] in today’s society. Nobody world what people think of will break the fart barrier and other side of the computer screen seems sketchy, investigate basically asking for attention,” you, fart it up loud and proud. more and make sure you’re really learning the truth. Arts & Entertainment KNIGHTLIFENEWS.COM7

Loy Norrix Teen Expresses himself with Tattoos HOLLYWOOD from page 4 him express how he is different from in 3-D. Snow White and the Seven others. Getting tattoos doesn’t really Dwarves has been re-released seven bother Esparza because his pain times since its creation in 1937. tolerance is really high. Don’t get me wrong, there are “It feels like a thousand little some good original movies still being pinches,” said Esparza. made, like “Inception,” but the number Esparza’s tattoos mean different of them is decreasing. A true original things to him. He has a unicorn on movie is hard to find because so many his ankle which means freedom to be movies are based off of books. what he wants to be. He has tattoos on Now a movie based off a book isn’t his hands that reminds him to always a bad thing, but the point of a book work towards his goals. Also he has a is that we can let our imagination run diamond in tribute to his best friend. wild with how we want to see it. We “Honestly, I think it’s cool, but I have become so brainwashed at what think some people only get tattoos to fit Hollywood and the media produces in with others,” said Esparza. that we can’t think for ourselves and Tattoos allow teenagers to feel just pay attention to whatever comes free to make choices about their own off our TV screen. body and have control of themselves. As humans we need to let our Marcus Boyd / Knight Life News Most teenagers get tattoos rebelliously, curiosity lead us into something new Senior Jorge Esparza striking a pose while showing off his tattoos. Esparza has 7 from the peer pressure of friends and and creative instead of the same story tattoos. other close to them. that has been remade. My solution: Mary Daly and for different reasons. The most History teacher Arthur Williams take more chances in the movie Knight Life News common reasons are to remember a has his opinions on tattoos. Williams industry. Producers shouldn’t be so loved one, express personal opinions is one of those people who has tattoos scared to put money into an original It seems like everyone has a and to represent a hobby. Most people, but thinks in today’s world tattoos are movie because it could end up the new tattoo these days. What used to be the especially at a young age, don’t think becoming a trend and aren’t having Star Wars. property of sailors, outlaws and biker of the health risk and consequences of much thought when people get them. My hope is that society grows gangs is now a popular thing for many getting a tattoo. “I think teenagers all over will be attached to the things that are new people. People have found ways to Senior Jorge Esparza, loves the getting tattoos, but it will eventually instead of the things that used to be express themselves with their tattoos. feeling of the vibrations of the tattoo die down and not be as common from new. People of all ages get tattoos machines. He believes tattoos help years to come,” said Williams.

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3 8 Arts & Entertainment

Michael Guidry, senior Top Young Adult Books “I like how the book [“To Kill a Danielle Kahler Mockingbird”] was written and the Hannah Roberts, Knight Life News author’s diction. It was a lot different sophomore Socrates Montero, than any other book I had read.” “My mom made me read You would be hard-pressed to senior “Anne of Green Gables” find someone that has not heard of “You didn’t have a child- and it shows how one the Harry Potter series or the Hunger hood if you didn’t read person can change your Harry Potter.” Games trilogy. Because of their high life.” popularity, these books occupy the first and second slots on National Public Radio’s Top 100 Best Young Adult Novels. The Children/Young Adult category is the fastest growing publishing category as of last year, according to the Association of American Publishers. The books selected in this category are based on the Best Ever Teen- Fiction poll from the summer of 2012. The roster was made from a panel of experienced judges. Keep in mind that if you don’t see your favorite book on the list, the age group that it falls in may be too old or, more likely, too young to qualify in the Young Adult category, which is defined as the age group between 12 and 18. Although if you’re wondering where the Twilight series ranks, it is 27th on the list and didn’t quite make the cut. If you’re interested in seeing the whole list, go to www. knightlifenews.com where you can follow the link to the NPR website. Feature KNIGHTLIFENEWS.COM 9 Senior Section Loy Norrix Alumni Advice Max Williams, Sophomore The atmosphere of a smaller KVCC college is really nice. The biggest class I am taking only has 40 students.

I plan to go to a university next year, but KVCC helped me out a lot to get started before that big step.

Since the classes are smaller, the professors get a chance to get personable with all the students.

Lucas Leibold, Freshman Michigan State University I recommend rooming blind. It forces you to remove yourself from Preveiw of Allie Pines’ dorm room at Columbia University. This preveiw can give a few your comfort zone. examples of what future college students may need for their dorms. Allie Pines, Freshman It can be hard to avoid College distractions sometimes in Columbia University Necessities! the dorms. Try the library, it can provide a much better -Fan work environment when it -Lamp comes down to crunch time. -Hard Drive -Mini Fridge There is a time for work, and -Pillow and Sheets a time for play. Do not be afraid to enjoy yourself, just *Make sure to communicate realize that your future is on with your roomate before the line, so be smart. you buy appliances or furniture, so you don’t end up bringing the same things.

How to Get Extra Money First week of school, try to get For College involved with anything available Summer job so you can meet new people. Workstudy FAFSA Learn how to manage your time. CSS Scholarships Keep a budget of where you spend your money on a daily to weekly basis. Get out of the dorms and off campus to check out the community to get involved. Look at what your college might Lucas Leibold shares his dorm room with a fellow student at Lyman Briggs (a residential offer for study abroad programs. college at MSU for natural science). Friend Linsey Erickson enjoys down time in their dorm room. There’s co-ed floors in some dorms at Michigan State. Loy Norrix Colleges have a Their deadlines Counselors are DeadLines portal site where and other in the lunch FAFSA: March 1 students can check information. room Decision: May 1 every tuesday! 10 Feature Cool Whips Senior Scout Rides High Up in her Wrangler Shaquwan Saves at the Pump but Loses on Space

Marcus Boyd / Knight Life News Marcus Boyd / Knght Life News Senior Scout Krueger shows off her 2009 Jeep Wrangler. She listens to Senior Shaquwan Hughes shows off his old, but very efficient compact car. country music on Pandora when she drives. He calls his car “The Coupe.”

Marcus Boyd soccer team while her brother is on Marcus Boyd party with,” said Shaquwan. Knight Life News the wrestling team and plays soccer Knight Life News Shaquwan had 6 of his friends, As a teen, there are tons of great too. Her parents have a tight schedule Senior Shaquwan Hughes is said Titus McKenzie, Socrates Montero, things about being in high school, which leaves no time to drive Scout to have one of the worst student whips Davian Phillips, Jordan Taber, Adonios but one of the best is driving. There’s and her brother around, so that’s how according to fellow students and he is Lee, and Kody Gunn come over to nothing better than driving in the car the Jeep came into her possession. aware of this. his house to go to a house party and alone without your parents around to One of the cool features that Scout’s He drives a 1992 Chevrolet everyone chipped in on gas money. instruct you on every little thing. You jeep has is a removable roof. Cavalier. His mother bought the car “I had two in the front, three in the can turn your music up a little louder, “We take it to the beach a lot and for him last year in March from a back, one on the floor and one in the have a couple of friends ride along, the roof comes off and everything so friend for $650. There was no special trunk,” said Shaquwan. Socrates rode and you have complete freedom to it’s fun,” said Scout. occasion for getting the car; it was just in the trunk. drive wherever you want to. She likes to go to the beach with for his first car. “He held the trunk closed a little to Loy Norrix has approximately her friends and hang out and taking “Yeah, I like it,” said Shaquwan. breathe and he stayed curled in a ball to 15 hundred students. Most of them the roof off is perfect for a hot summer He mentioned that the coolest features fit in the trunk,” said Shaquwan. depend on the school bus to get to day. You could have some nice tunes in his car are the CD player, the cup The whole ride, everyone nervously school every day. However, there blasting with the wind blowing through holders, and the subwoofers in his stayed ducked down in fear of getting are plenty of students who drive your hair and everyone’s got their trunk. But that’s pretty good because pulled over by the cops, but luckily themselves here. shades on. It just makes for a really there are plenty of cars that don’t have Shaquwan’s house was only fifteen When it comes to students’ cars, good time. Another cool feature about a CD player or cup holders. His cars minutes away and they all made it back there is a lot of diversity. There are Scout’s car is its height. also really good on gas. With its 4 just fine. all kinds of different makes, models, “My dad put a lift kit on it and put cylinder engine, it’s able to get 21 mpg and years and some cars are better or on bigger tires,” said Scout. Because in the city and 29 mpg on the highway. Top Ten Reccomended worse than others. it’s so high up, it’s more fun to drive. 2012 Teen Cars Senior Scout Krueger was said to “Inside, there’s a touch screen. I “I had two in the front, three in the back, Courtasy of the USAA have one of the coolest student whips don’t know what it’s called but it’s for one on the floor and one in the trunk” 1. 2012 Kia Forte according to fellow students. like, navigation and music and stuff,” -Shaquwan 2. 2012 Honda CR-Z She drives a 2008 Jeep Wrangler said Scout excitedly. that she got two years ago during Scout’s Jeep has a Uconnect 3. 2012 Hyundai Elentra summer vacation. entertainment system that does not “Once a week, I get gas. I only have 4. 2012 Honda Civic “We needed another car so I come on the Basic models. Truly to put in ten dollars to get it on a half 5. 2012 Toyota Yaris could drive my brother places and exclusive. tank,” said Shaquwan. 6. 2012 Scion xB drive myself places,” said Scout. He then goes on to tell about a 7. 2012 Scion xD Scout plays on the Lady Knights time when he fit seven people into his 8. 2012 Honda Fit compact car. “It was a house party on a Friday, 9. 2012 Nissan Cube and we only had one car to go to the 10. 2012 Scion tC Feature KNIGHTLIFENEWS.COM11 Does Age Matter? Together Forever According to Health & Wellbeing more and more people are starting to ignore societies stereotypes High School Relationships Can Exes be Friends? that you need to be with someone that is close to Sydnee Stannard you in age. According to DivineCaroline, most people who Knight Life News try to stay friends with their ex either want to fix People are beginning to date someone that is 10, the relationship or are using their ex as a crutch 15 or even 20 years older or younger than them. until someone better comes along. According to Chicago Tribune, “Women bear the brunt of the criticism whether they’re on the younger or older side of the spectrum.” If a Can exes go back to being friends? woman is older than the man she is considered a Loy Norrix students say: cougar and if she is younger she is thought of as a gold digger. Some studies show that married “Never give up on the couples are happiest when the husband is older than the wife. ones you love.” 34% Does age matter in a relationship? -Wondon Hughes Loy Norrix students say: 66%

45% 55%

Significant Others According to Alternatives to Marriage Project, “There are 99.6 million unmarried people over the age of 18 in the United States.” About 44% of adults in the United States are single.

Love at First Sight Do you have a significant other? Loy Norrix students say: According to Hmolpedia, an encyclopedia of human thermodynamics, love at first sight is when two people fall in love immediately after looking at each other. Statistically 20% of people fall in love at first sight and end up marrying their significant other. 46% 54% Do you believe in love at first sight? Loy Norrix students say: Soul Mates High School According to the website Solvedating, the concept of soul mates comes from Greek mythology. Our Sweethearts 38% ancestors had two heads and four arms. They did something that made a God mad and God decided According to the website Professor’s House, to punish them by splitting them down the middle. less than 2% of all marriages come from high “Don’t worry as much about rela- 62% This ended up being the creation of humanity. We now are punished by having to search for our other school relationships. tionships. Stay focused on school half, our soul mate. and what you need to do in the Do you believe that high school future.”-Kasey Perry Do you believe in the concept of soul mates? relationships can last until marriage? Loy Norrix students say: Loy Norrix students say:

“Everyone has someone they’re meant to be with.” 16% -Brianna Day 24% “If you have to hesitate when asked if you are happy, end it. Like poker your have to know “People often forget about the human ca- 84% when to bet and when to pacity for forgiveness. You tried it, it didn’t 76% work, okay; you don’t have to hate each fold.” -Olivia lyzsyk

other.”-Grace Santamaria 12 Feature Can you tell which hair is natural or weave? It’s UnbeWEAVEable

Transform Your Hair Instantly with Weave Aerion Caldwell my braids were tight,” said restricted and cannot do any “You feel like ripping it out Knight Life News Adewusi. of that,” said junior Skylar its so itchy. Sometimes I don’t Real “Hey girl that’s not fair. A sew-in is when your Johnson. even care that I’m in front of Weave Give that horsey back its hair,” whole head is braided into Not exactly feeling the idea people I just scratch it,” said is the theme song for weave. French braids. You would need of a sew-in? Do the opposite junior Ariyana Walker. Looking back in 2007 if a needle and thread. There’s and have it glued in. No braids, PAT. PAT. That’s the sound you wore weave, you were curved, straight, V shaped, and no needles, and no thread. of a girl scratching her weave. automatically considered bald- boxed needles. When I say It’s your natural hair and the When you see a girl patting headed. Today females confide thread, I mean hair thread and weave in-between. It’s easier, her head, you know she wears in each other, gathering ideas not the thread people use to emphasizes the volume, and weave. and trading secrets. sew clothes with. It comes in makes it look like the hair is “I was in class and all of Weave is a new and revived all different colors depending all yours. a sudden I hear this smacking hot trend and is becoming the on your choice of weave, all Weave can create many sound. I look back and it’s latest fashion. It can be glued available at your local beauty illusions based on the different some girl patting her weave. or sewed into natural hair, and supply store. Now its time to ethnicities of women. In a When it itches you can’t can make a girls life much sew it all in and watch your male’s point of view, it creates scratch it or else you’ll be easier. White girls, black girls, hair transform. the illusion that you have more walking around with some Asian girls, you name it, they The lengths vary from eight hair. extensions hanging out. Pat, all have it. inchs to twenty-four. There’s “Everybody needs more don’t scratch,” said senior “I love my weave and my curly, wavy, straight, and kinky hair once in a while,” said Bernell Campbell. colors. I’m a colorful person, weave. You can choose from Derrick Smith. “Just make sure Often you’ll see girls using but extremely picky about yaki, synthetic, synthetic blend it doesn’t fall out because in a pen tops, pencils, trying to get my hair,” said senior Kiana and human hair. Choosing fight that’s the first thing girls that scratch without messing Adewusi. your type of weave is a critical grab for. up their new hairdo, trying Real Weave is known to be a moment. It’s the decision of “Oh, there go her weave!” to get and feel that “Ahh” whether to choose the real or Weave protective style for your hair. said junior Chandler Thomas. sensation. But what really It retains the length, improves the fake. Walking through the causes that itch? It is your hair the quality, prevents breakage Remi is the most popular hallways of Loy Norrix you being pulled so tightly by the and gives your hair time to type of weave and is what girls will see the tumble weave. braids and weave. Your natural grow. go crazy for. It is 100% human That’s a ball of weave just hair is lacking moisture and Getting your weave done hair, high quality and the randomly blowing in the air. fresh air, triggering that un- is not all fun and games. The price varies from $38 and up. “So many girls don’t have sensational itch. process can take up to five Unlike Remy, synthetic and hair after a fight. It feels like a Want to put out the fire hours and it is not cheap either. synthetic blend prices are way Clint Eastwood movie. There’s burning in your scalp? Try Ever heard the saying “Beauty cheaper because of its lack of enough to go around and sleeping without your weave is pain”? When you get a quality. keep for collectables, ” said being wrapped, by doing so sew-in, you’ll fully understand “I use remi hair because it Thomas. traps the air and makes the what that means. lasts longer and is manageable. When your hair is not itch worse. Avoid scratching “It was my first time You’re able to wash, curl, getting pulled out in a fight, continuously, wash regularly, getting a sew-in, so I was blow-dry, and straighten it. you might have the urge to pull and most importantly excited, but it took forever and With synthetic hair you’re it out yourself. moisturize the scalp.

Real Weave Before Step 1 Step 2 After Feature KNIGHTLIFENEWS.COM13 Looking Back at 12 Events From 2012 Allie Creamer Knight Life News 22 January 11 Februrary 1 March The “Askin’ All Them Questions” video, by Emmanuel and Whitney Houston was an artist, actress, producer and model. Canadian singer-songwriter Carly Rae Jepsen became a Phillip Hudson, became an overnight sensation. It now has She left this earth at forty-eight years old. huge hit after her song “Call Me Maybe” came out. Although over forty two million views. many people may not necessarily understand or like the “I was shocked when Whitney Houston died,” Said Senior meaning of the song, it was still a catchy tune. “That was the video. Along with ‘She Ratchet’,” said senior Anajia Williams shaking her head, “She’s one of my Antonia Alexander, “That video had a bunch of views and inspirations I looked up to her, I loved her voice.” “I love that song!” senior Robbi Cook said sarcastically, “I didn’t like her singing it, but loved all the parodies of it.” everyone was going around singing it.”

20 April 9 May 5 June Kony 2012 was an organization to help the child soldiers President Obama announced that he supports same-sex The century’s last transit of Venus occurred. This happens in Uganda. On April 20th the organization told everyone marriage. He talked about the soldiers fighting for our when Venus comes between the Earth and the Sun. You can to “Cover The Night.” This is where everyone was supposed freedom but can’t feel fully free because they cannot marry see the planet as a little black dot on the Sun. The transit of to plaster the world with Kony 2012 posters. whom they want. Obama felt it was important to let people Venus this year lasted six hours and forty minutes. The next know how he felt about the topic. one is predicted to occur in 2117. “Before I thought it was a good organization,” said junior Magnificent Hanana, “Now I think they just wanted to get “I was overjoyed,” said senior Olivia Lyszyk, “I finally felt like money.” all the work that so many have put in was realized.”

27 July 6 August 12 September The 2012 Summer Olympics were held in London. The top A rover by the name of Curiosity landed successfully on Mars. The iPhone 5 was announced. Apple lovers waited in line four medalists were from the U.S. Michael Phelps ended This rover has seventeen cameras, a laser to test rock, and all night for the new iPhone. The iPhone 5 features a bigger with four gold and two silver medals. tools that can analyze samples. Curiosity took over 2 billion screen, lighter and thinner frame, a faster processor and, 4G dollars to make. LTE wireless connections. “It’s sad Michael Phelps isn’t in the Olympics anymore,” said Claire Mears, “It was his last year.”

24 October 6 November 21 December A tropical storm became Hurricane Sandy. The hurricane Barack Obama was re-elected as President of the United The Mayan calendar ended on this day. Many people took it affected twenty four states and killed over two hundred States. He was running against Republican Mitt Romney. as the world was going to end. Schools were closed due to people. It was the second costliest hurricane and ended up kids’ threatening comments. with over sixty-five billion dollars in damage. “I’m glad he was re-elected,” said senior Tia Parker, “He is doing a good job running our country and gives black “I thought there was going to be a black out,” said senior people a better name.” Jordan Taber, “I was sad when there wasn’t.” 14 Feature Teen Parents Struggle to Juggle Mataya Simmons than an average student’s day. Knight Life News “I wake up and make sure my son, Baby Mike, is “I go to KVCC because I am trying to get a head okay. I then come to school. After school I go home, start on college because I already have a head start on clean up and do my homework all while taking care making kids,” said senior Breana Ortiz. of Mike,” said Brianna Hooper. On March 4, 2012 Breana Ortiz had her son, Brianna Hooper finds herself stressed out a lot, Elston Jr. at 11:44 p m. at Bronson hospital but doesn’t regret a thing. For Breana Ortiz having a child at a young age “Don’t get me wrong, it’s very hard to learn how was stressful and overwhelming. Now, being a year to take care of a baby at my age, but I wouldn’t take later, she is still struggling to handle the stress, but it back, I love my son. I don’t let stress get me down has learned how to manage her time wisely. because I know it won’t always be this hard,” said “I go to second, third and fourth blocks, then I go Brianna Hooper. to KVCC at 2 o’clock p.m. until 3 o’clock p.m. and Sophomore Mikquawn Crayton is Brianna again 6 o’clock p.m. until 9 o’clock p.m. I also have Hooper’s current boyfriend and also the father of her a 10 month old son and have been working at Steak son. Mikquawn Crayton not only goes to school and and Shake since June,” said Breana Ortiz. helps take care of his son, he also plays basketball for Even though Breana Ortiz thinks, “I live the our Loy Norrix JV team. life of a 30 year old,” she still finds time for social “When Brianna got pregnant I wa s worried. I activities while getting her education, taking care of didn’t know what everyone would say or think. I was her son, and working a job. only in the eighth grade,” said Mikquawn Crayton. Mikquawn Crayton says he gets very stressed with all Broamma Hooper also Faces the Mommy Challenge the things he takes on. Junior Brianna Hooper lives a stressful life also. “I come to school and then I go to practice. After Brianna Hooper got pregnant going into her freshman practice I go home and help take care of my son and year. do my homework,” said Mikquawn Crayton. Jini Brown / Guest Photographer “When I found out I was pregnant I was mad Having a son has changed Mikquawn Crayton’s life Brianna Hooper and her child, Baby Mike enjoy his first because I never expected to get pregnant at such a for the better, “It’s made me make better decisions birthday. Brianna looks forward to watching him grow into a young age,” said Briana Hooper. and live for him.” young man. Brianna Hooper’s daily schedule is not nearly as “It does get stressful at times but I love baby full as Breana Ortiz’s but is still much more stressful mike, I wouldn’t take anything back,” said Crayton. Students and Teachers Rely on Coffee to Stay Alert coffee sources at the school. drink it black by his bigger and more Ninety percent of adults in North intimidating fellow workers. He has America consume caffeine daily. been drinking it the same ever since. Teachers at Loy Norrix drink “I am not addicted because I do massive amounts of coffee. Art not drink coffee on the weekend,” said Williams drinks a pot of coffee before Allen. he leaves for work in the morning and Students like drinking energy another throughout the school day. drinks more than teachers; energy “Yes absolutely, I am addicted,” drinks are more directed towards the Williams reported. younger generation. Williams started drinking coffee Senior Troy Swodzinki drinks 6-7 in the Marine Core and found it helps a week during his soccer season. The his ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder). energy drinks help him perform for his ADD is the abnormally function of soccer games. Mia Leiblod / KnightLfeNews your brain which obscures your ability Some athletes like Swodzinki Social Studies teacher and coffee fanatic, Ryan Allen, boosts his energy during his 3rd hour to focus on tasks. Caffeine acts as a drink energy drinks before games. economics class with coffee. Allen drinks 6-8 cups per day during the work week. stimulant, which counter affects ADD. In 2000 Ross Cooney was 18 years Williams said the biggest coffee old and collapsed during a basketball Sarah Stevens Viktoria Pashby drinks two to three drinkers at the school are Mark Lowrie game because of drinking 3 Red Knight Life News cups of coffee a day. Pashby stated, and himself. He all so stated that Ryan Bulls before his game. Experts warn As a society we run on caffeine. We “I’m not addicted, I can restrain Allen is a coffee pretender. against drinking energy drinks because would not be able to get through our myself and go days and weeks without “He is a coffee pretender because he when running around, athletes’ heart busy lives without our Monsters, coffee noticing and effects.” doesn’t drink 2 pots a day, and I heard start pumping faster and can lead to and 5-Hour Energy Shots. Students and When younger, Pashby was sitting he sometimes drinks instant coffee,” irregular heartbeats. teachers work for 8 hours at school and around the campfire with her father Williams jokingly said. MediResource Clinical Team say then are overwhelmed with homework and asked for a cup of coffee. Her Every time you walk into Ryan that caffeine is a psychoactive drug. and social lives. father said no, when she asked why, his Allen’s classroom, it’s like you’re A psychoactive drug is a drug that According to Life Science, three out reason was because she would put a lot walking into a coffee shop. Allen can primarily acts upon the central nervous of five people say that they need coffee of cream and sugar in it. The only way be seen with his coffee cup at any time system and effects brain functions. to start their day. A survey was taken she could have a cup is if she would during his Economics and Government People can get addicted to the at Loy Norrix of 300 students about drink the coffee black. She drank it classes. Allen drinks 6-8 cups a day. effects of caffeine and it’s a hard habit caffeinated products. Results showed black and still drinks it black today. He started drinking coffee at his to kick. When trying to stop drinking 20 percent drink coffee. Pashby usually brings coffee to first job out as a maintenance worker caffeine symptoms could consist of Since the 1970’s the number of school, but every once in awhile she mowing lawns, and delivery supplies. headaches, drowsiness, irritability, and teens that drink coffee has tripled. needs another cup and goes to her Allen was pressured to drink coffee and difficulty concentrating. Feature KNIGHTLIFENEWS.COM 15 ESL: Learning English Helps Students Communicate and Excell in Classes the ESL student’s job is to apply these because everyone is patient with you skills into everyday use. because they are dealing with same The ESL teacher that is in charge issue.” of all this is Steven Howell. Howell Chui Wei Wang is also a foreign has been teaching at Loy Norrix for exchange student from Taiwan. He st three years. He said “students come arrived here in Kalamazoo August 31 . to Loy Norrix from all walks of life, When Chui Wei moved he knew very with many different challenges.” little English. He said it was very hard When teens arrive not knowing making friends and getting to know English it is a disadvantage but it isn’t people at first because he didn’t really something negative. It is just one of the understand anyone. Working in the ESL challenges. program has allowed him understand Howell speaks English and French, the language and communicate. but this job has allowed him to pick Smiling Chui Wei expressed some up bits and pieces of other languages. of his favorite things. Most of his students come to him with “I love skiing and the sky at night a background in Spanish. here because you can see the stars. In Kyseniya Baranova is a foreign my city in Taiwan I can’t see the stars. I exchange student from Russia. She only see lights.” studied English in Russia, but when This is something he couldn’t she arrived here she could hardly express when he first got to the U.S. understand anyone. She was constantly Now he has made a lot of close friends asking her host mom to repeat herself. and is able to speak without feeling Marcus Boyd/ Kinight lIfe News Her host mom would ask the same of self conscious about it. Wang also Sophmore Irving Rivera is learning English for the first time this school year. He gets help her. Kyseniya wanted friends and could said he is able to listen and enjoy from his ESL teacher Mr. Howell during his 4th hour. tell Americans were friendly but she country and rock music. There is a big was scared to speak. culture difference between Taiwan and Kiosha Miller for her. When he first entered Loy In Russia she was very talkative so America but he is very glad he came. Knight Life News Norrix he was scared because he not talking was unlike her. But, as the Howell said when he was hired in didn’t know how to communicate with to teach at Loy Norrix he was given When you look at Irving Rivera school year went on, Howell was able anyone. On top of that he was expected to help her. She now has fun at school some very good advice. He said he was he looks like any other 16-year-old to do the work in his classes that told, “ Treat every student as if they Loy Norrix sophomore student. What everyone else was. were your own, the students will do you don’t know is that he has one of Irving said, “ I remember when I whatever you allow them to.” the hardest challenges ever. He has a “Mr. Howell has improved my first entered Ms. Riley’s class, I didn’t language, his class is nice because With this advice he has been language barrier. This language barrier know what she was saying at all.” able to develop his own teaching is something most American natives everyone is patient with you because Irving has had a good support they are dealing with the same issue.” and management style. He always never have to deal with. group, which is what has allowed him wondered how one of his professors Many teens come to America as to be successful. His friends that speak from college could tell stories from foreign exchange students or move here English and Spanish have helped him. - Kyseniya Baranova past students. from other countries. If the students Most importantly the ESL program has Now as a teacher he realizes that have a language barrier it can be very helped him. and has, made friends. She is able to you have to get to know a student in hard to communicate. The ESL program stands for experience the American culture. All order for them to trust you. After the Irving is from El Salvador. His English as a second language. There are this has been due to the hard work she students trust you, that’s when you mother moved here for work a few different levels of the program so that has done since the school year started. are able to get them open to learning. years ago, and he recently joined her the students can continue to improve She has had to get over being self- This is one of the reasons that the ESL and his younger sister in June. When their skills and grow. There are about conscious and just try. program has been successful at Loy he moved here he knew no English. 1500 students at Loy Norrix and many Kyseniya said,” Mr. Howell has Norrix. Howell treats every student as Since his mother moved here for work are involved in ESL. The goal of the improved my language, his class is nice an individual. she hasn’t picked up English very program is to teach students the ins and well, leaving him knowing basically outs of American Standard English. For nothing about the language. He now example the ESL students are taught had to make a life change for himself how to define words by context not and his family. He knew he would be from a dictionary. They are taught how responsible for teaching his mother to interpret symbols and images. Then how to speak English and translating 16 Opinion Staff Editorial KNIGHT LIFE PUBLICATION POLICY Federal Laws Prohibiting Marijuana Should Be Revoked Got opinions? Disagree with legal. misdemeanor for adults over something we’ve said? Just want to get your say in the Currently in Michigan, only 21 with a fine of up to 100 paper? Write us! medical marijuana is legal. In dollars. Direct Letters to the Editor to: December of 2012, Michigan’s Before decriminalization, -Knight Life Loy Norrix legislation tightened up the small time marijuana offenders 606 E Kilgore Kalamazoo, MI 49001 medical laws. Now, medical were prosecuted under state -Submit to Room K6 marijuana cards are only valid law which resulted in a fine up [email protected] for two years and after that to two thousand dollars, and no Guidelines: time a panel reviews whether more than a year in jail. 250 words or less, must contain author’s name, third period, and or not the user is still in need If the federal government ID number. of their prescription. It also would retract their law saying Right to Withold: requires medical marijuana that marijuana used for any If space permits, guest columns, users to carry marijuana in the purpose is illegal, each state personal opinions, contains libel or obscenities, disrupts school trunk of their car if they have could decide for themselves environment, invades privacy to transport it. Finally it said what to do, whether that’s of others. that employers are not required make it legal for recreational Notes to reader: Lori Umbanhower / Guest Artist to reimburse their employees purposes like Colorado and Any photography that has been manipulated will be labeled as a Amendment 64 in the and individual freedom” as for medical marijuana Washington state, for medical photo illustration. Colorado constitution was stated in the amendment. purchases. Even with all of purposes like Michigan, -Knight Life will publish a formal correction of any factual error passed on Tuesday November Colorado has taken a large the precautions that Michigan Washington DC, and 17 other made in a previous issue. 6 2012, legalizing the step in legalizing marijuana legislation is taking, marijuana, states in the US, or ban the use KNIGHT LIFE recreational use of marijuana. for recreational usage but how even for medical purposes is of marijuana all together. EDITORIAL BOARD The voters of the state of legal is it? Federal law still still illegal under the eye of the In Colorado, similar Colorado had many reasons states that the use of marijuana federal government. precautions that are used for Asia Davis In Kalamazoo, the Editor-in-Chief behind their legalization of is illegal, making the actual selling alcohol will be used for marijuana, and most if not all, legality of marijuana quite possession of under an selling marijuana, such as: Ben Dunham are legitimate. The people confusing. This is why the ounce of marijuana has been 1. Individuals will have to Rachel Reed decriminalized. This means Kiosha Miller of Colorado “had an interest federal law of marijuana being show proof that they are at Web Editors in more efficient use of law illegal should be retracted and that if you are caught with least 21 years old to purchase enforcement, enhancing it should be the state’s decision under one ounce (about 28 marijuana. Anthony Foti revenue for public purposes, whether or not marijuana is grams) of marijuana, it is a Layout and Design Editor see MARIJUANA page 20 Sarah Stevens Business Manager My Little Pony Fans Transcend Societal Gender Roles Jay McIntosh Business Assisstant and discovering the power of watching and loving the show. television show “Family Guy” faith. The colors are bright, Eventually, they were given has humor that is supposedly Allie Creamer the theme song is bubbly, and the name of “Bronies,” a Sydnee Stannard appropriate for teenagers Photo Editors the messages can sometimes combination of the words bro simply because all of the jokes be found cheesy. So why and pony. are raunchy and “adult,” but Danielle Kahler would any teenager or adult When I first heard about Hannah Reinhold that doesn’t mean that it is Feature Editors male watch this show and call Bronies, I was skeptical. I necessarily better for our age themselves something as silly could not see why anyone group. Mataya Simmons Ben Miller as a “Brony”? The answer can would watch this series. News Editor Maybe I haven’t convinced Knight Life News get complicated, so let’s dive But after some convincing, you by this point, but this type Erin Romph From the beginning of our deep. a friend of mine got me to of generalization about teenage Mia Leibold First of all, we’re going watch it. Stunned by the Sports Editors lives, men and women are interests is a huge problem. separated by a not-so-fine line. to talk about the “My Little quality of the show, I wanted These norms about age and Nikia Jackson As babies, boys are blue and Pony” itself. Don’t knock it ‘til more. My friend then sent me gender roles have brought our Arts and you try it because it’s actually several drawings and videos Entertainment Editor girls are pink. As kids, boys culture to a point where we like Spider Man and girls like a solid show. The characters created by fans. I could not aren’t allowed to enjoy things Aerion Caldwell Cinderella. Once we grow are hilarious, the dialogue believe how incredible these that we like (with “My Little Shakira Green is well thought out and the pieces of art were. The Brony Jena Burkey up, women are considered Pony” being a prime example). Brianna Leip sensitive and men don’t have animation is award winning. community is incredibly So what do we do? Well, there Marcus Boyd emotions. Well what if that all The thing is, there is such a artistic. All across the Internet is only one thing; toss these Mary Daly thick wall of social norms are songs, animations, products Copy Editors changed? And what if the thing norms to the curb. Because to change these gender roles that we, as people, cannot see and most of all artwork, all by disregarding these roles Josh Johnson was a show called “My Little through to why anyone might based on “My Little Pony.” in society, we could all enjoy Branden VanZile enjoy the show. But we will So what is our problem as Opinion Editors Pony: Friendship is Magic?” the things we like without “My Little Pony” is a show get into that later. a whole? Why is society so judgment. Shakira Green When the show “My Little afraid and threatened by men And maybe Bronies are Comics Editor recreated by Lauren Faust in 2010 (the original show was Pony” was first created, Faust watching a show created for the beginning of this. For all Cherell Langford created in 1982) about six did her best to present it so young girls? Well, it’s fairly we know, “normal dudes” that Ben Miller ponies learning the power parents could watch with their simple. It isn’t seen as normal. watch “My Little Pony” could Jacob Heasley kids and not leave the room It defies the typical definition Staff Writers of friendship through their be leading an entire cultural adventures. This can be about gagging. She was successful of masculine or mature. For revolution where it doesn’t Tisha Pankop in doing this. So much, in fact, example, we do not judge matter if girls play with G.I. Advisor Pinkie Pie finding out who ate the cake or even Twilight that parents started watching it humor on the quality of the Joe’s or boys are ravaging the Sparkle arguing for atheism on their own. This eventually jokes themselves but on the Barbie market. led to teenage and adult men group the joke is made for. The OPINION KNIGHTLIFENEWS.COM17 Teachers having guns Protect or Endanger Time magazine delves into the of emotions. A teacher who is having psychology behind what happens to a bad day is nothing, but what about the mind during a shoot out. Trained a teacher who is having a bad day, Knights officers often experience tunnel that is armed with a gun? vision or something like looking into Teachers are put in stressful Speak a kaleidoscope when involved in a situations almost every day with Should teachers be able gun fight, according to the article children and teens who have not fully to carry guns in school to “Your Brain in a Shootout: Fear and developed the areas of their brain that ensure student safety? Danielle Kahler Knight Life News Flawed Instinct” by Amanda Ripley. make them think rationally. Doungbagai Leo, Junior Due to this, officers usually hit Imagine this scenario: two kids Throughout my high school years, their targets only 18 percent of the get in a fight and a teacher, who is “No, they shouldn’t because everyone I’ve discovered that I would like to time and “when they fired 16 times armed with a gun, tries to break them is human and if a teacher becomes become a teacher. at an armed man outside the Empire up. Somehow, one of the kids gets a emotionally unstable they could use it incorrectly. ” In light of the Sandy Hook State Building last summer, they hit hold of the gun. To me, this is a scary Elementary shootings, I’ve recently nine bystanders and left 10 bullet situation, and much more likely to found myself wondering what kind holes in the suspect—a better-than- happen than some mass murderer of training I’ll be receiving. Will I average hit ratio.” walking into a school. be required to take classes in self So, if trained officers only hit their Statistically, schools are one of defense and learn how to shoot a targets 18 percent of the time, how the safest places. Time magazine Julia Fiore, Junior gun? And when I am an educator, much training do we expect teachers notes that the odds of a US student “No, teachers shouldn’t be able to will I be expected to fire at a person? to undergo? being shot are 1 in 3 million, which is carry guns because students can’t Are teachers now expected to be Well, some states propose 1 less than being struck by lightening. carry them either. If they both follow unpaid police officers? Teachers to 3 days before handing over a People are taking this issue the rules there are no problems.” should not be expected to carry guns firearm to a teacher. However, this too far. Sometimes horrible things in school. is not sufficient training for average happen and there is nothing we can Although politicians may imagine citizens. Even years of training does do about it. People cannot have guns a scenario where a bad guy barges not make a perfect police officer. in airports or libraries, so why are into a room, a teacher confidently Personally, I see more flaws we proposing to force teachers to whips out a gun, kills the criminal with arming teachers than benefits. carry guns, some of whom might be Joriah Fleming, Sophomore with one shot and becomes the hero, Teachers are humans also, and we all opposed to it? We should leave the “They should be allowed if the guns this is not the case. know that humans have a wide range gun handling to trained authorities are secure somewhere that only the who have signed up for the job. teacher has access to. There would have to be a strict procedure on how News media is at Fault for “Copycat” Shootings the teacher goes about using them.”

shooter was a violent antihero, driven printing it. to madness by any random violent “I took a look at “Rage” and said Alexis Caples, Senior video game. Once any form of to myself, if this book is acting as entertainment is blamed, a figurative any sort of accelerant, if it’s having “I think teachers should not have witch hunt is stirred up against it, any effect on any of these kids at all, guns in school because we can’t prevent something we dont know and all questions about the shooter’s I don’t want anything to do with it,” will happen and students will steal mental health go out the window. said King. them. ” There are countless instances Along with the interview, Jacob Heasley Knight Life News of this, comic books were blamed there was 24 hour news coverage, in the ‘80s, movies in the ‘90s, and a detailed explanation about the It seems that everything you now video games in the 2000s. News killer’s arsenal and how he hid the hear after a shooting is guns, guns, sources are forever in competition weapons from school security, and Hunter Machin, Freshman and more guns. News anchors with any new form of entertainment within a month, there were four debate over the second amendment, that takes away their viewers or other shootings in which the shooters “I think they should be able to carry politicians try and pass bills to readers, and every person rallying blamed Rage. guns if they are locked up. If there is limit gun usage, and the NRA an emergency they would come to against that entertainment is another If the media hadn’t virtually use.” lobbies against these bills. There person watching the news. created a guide showing people how is, however, one guilty party that In 1996, a 14 year old boy named to hide weapons from security and seems to get a free pass after every Barry Loukaitis of Moses Lake instead focused their coverage on the shooting; the media. Washington went into his algebra shooter’s depression or the fact that Officer Noble, Campus Saftey Officer If you watch the news after classroom in Frontier Middle School Loukaitis had had to talk his own any shooting, you will probably and opened fire. In the shooting he mother out of suicide a year before “I do not believe teachers should see 24 hour coverage of the event, killed two students, a teacher, and the shooting, the other four shootings carry guns. From my extensive train- ing through school and my experi- debates about the shooter’s motive, severely wounded another student. might have been prevented. interviews from individuals who ences on the street, there are several During the shooting Loukaitis said, The copy cat effect, as it was factors that come into play when were present, and countless experts, “This sure beats the hell out of soon called, says that the more news using a gun in a situation involving a each claiming that they are the only algebra, doesn’t it.” attention that a shooting gets, the classroom or school. You have to de- one who truly knows the reason the The quote, from Stephen King’s more likely that similar shootings termine...is the threat of dealy force? If the gun is used is another innocent shooter went on a rampage. book, “Rage,” became immensely will happen afterwards. It doesn’t Instead of trying to find out the students’ life going to be in danger popular among news sources. have to be school shootings either, because of a missed shot? These shooter’s legitimate motive, the Stephen King was interviewed suicides and other forms of murder are just some of the many scenarios media blames video games, movies, about his book, and in the interview, are also affected by news sources. that should be left to the trained law music, and countless other forms King made it very clear that he didn’t After the Aurora Colorado Dark enforcement personnel. I am in favor of entertainment. of more school resource officers in want anything to do with the book, American schools.” People are led to believe that the later asking the publisher to stop See SHOOTINGS page 20 “Where Real Success Takes Place” Career Opportunities For High School Students... 3200 S. Westnedge Kalamazoo (269) 381-4424

This is as state-certified program of instruction designed to prepare students to become a licensed professional cosmetologist or barber. Credits // Certification • Counts for 3rd Science Credit • Visual Performing Arts & Applied Arts • State Licensure Training Eligibility // Prerequisites • Must be a Junior • Dress Code • Expected Summer Hours for Juniors • Cosmetology Hours 12:30-4:30 • Barbering Hours 12:30- 5:30 Open To Public (All Work Done By Supervised Seniors) SPORTS KNIGHTLIFENEWS.COM19 New Players and Returning Stars Boost Women’s Soccer Jay McIntosh the women. Knight Life News Mcbarnes foresees her role as a chance to help players on a player to player The Loy Norrix Women's mind set and a new job of being able to Soccer team awaits this season with help the Lady Knights develop. expectations of a better result than last "I'm going to be able to give the year's. The 2012 season ended (6-8-2) incoming girls advice as to how they for the Lady Knights. can 'fill' my position in a calmer and Loy Norrix graduated five seniors nicer way than a coach will be able to last year, Lillian Jackson, Jessica help them," said McBarnes. Moshoginis, Morgan Steffler, Alexis McBarnes, once finished with high Welsh, and Brandie Batten. This year school, has plans of possibly attending marks a time for returning players to Kalamazoo College and playing soccer step up and new athletes to come in for their team. Even though McBarnes' and make an impact. role has changed, she knows she must Typically, whether it is men or still contribute all she can to help make women's soccer, ninth graders come in it a point that the team will live up to not knowing the game they are trying thw high expectations compared to out for or are simply trying to play for recent years. fun. This year, there are many players With many important spots to fill, coming in with high soccer IQ's from the Lady Knights are expecting to playing travel soccer and many others Mia Leibold/ Knight Life News improve their record from last year’s coming in looking to learn the game Women’s varsity soccer coach John McKenzie has been coaching at Loy Norrix for 4 years. by utilizing all players. more than they do now. Small group training sessions like this one take place pre-season to ensure confidence in both Junior, Mara Timmeny is a three year Freshman, Megan Zabik said, "I returning and new players. varsity player who thinks the new have been playing soccer ever since I goalkeepers is now going to have to court. Tuesday and Thursday there is additions to the team will be essential, can remember, hopefully that shows be counteracted by non-stop pressure weight training and a running workout. "Freshman are going to be able to bring this year when playing with the girls." from the double set of twins and the Wednesday and Saturday there are lots of energy to the team and new Megan Zabik, is one of the new team as a whole. group trainings. Each player has at least perspectives," said Timmeny. players coming to the team along with Like every year, the Lady Knights four days of training a week to prepare twin sister Julie Zabik, and they are start their pre-season training early. them for the tryouts on the 11th of looking to make a big impact right Did You Know? This year, the turnout for players has March. On average soccer players run seven miles away. been especially high in comparison to Three year varsity player Madison a game. "I want to win bad," were the words previous years with trainings reaching McBarnes has been a key attribute to said by both Zabik players when asked Soccer cleats have ranged anywhere from over thirty-five players. the Loy Norrix women's soccer team under $100.00 to over $400.00. what they want out of their first season A typical pre-season training for since she came in as a freshman. This at Norrix. the women's soccer team consists of year the Lady Knights will be without The game is known as ‘soccer’ only in North Along with the Zabik twins, come Mondays playing Futsal. Futsal is a her on the field due to an injury. America, the rest of the world recognizes it two other well known incoming twin game of soccer played in many other Regardless of McBarnes not being as Futbol. freshman, the Labadie powerhouse. countries with a slightly smaller but able to be on the field this year, she will The highest paid soccer player makes over The loss of senior defense and heavier ball, typically on a basketball still play more of a teaching role with 80 thousand a day. Knocking Down Unknown Pins:Varsity Bowlers at Loy Norrix Need Support Mia Leibold her sophomore year as a Knight and season, having won many important Knight Life News is now a senior at Loy Norrix. When games for the Knights. “When we win, we win big,” asked about how others react when she “Bowling has given me said junior Zach Brandt. “It’s not says that she’s on the bowling team confidence,” said Brandt. “It helps me just me that pulls out the win,” said Vanderbilt replied, “A lot of people to succeed under pressure situations.” Brandt, all 17 varsity bowlers at Loy don’t think it’s a real sport.” Brandt has aspirations to compete Norrix play a huge part in the team’s The majority of bowings fans are in bowling at the college level and accomplishments. family members. Vanderbilt thinks that eventually professionally. Loy Norrix alone offers 27 total it would be nice to have more student “It’s difficult at first, but once you sports teams for both men and women. fans come a support them. Like any get the hang of it, it gets more fun,” One of these highly competitive varsity sports team, the bowlers want others to said Brandt about beginner bowlers. sports is bowling. encourage them at their meets. “Zach has inspired me to take Senior Daniel White has never “There is a lot of technique behind bowling to the next level, he’s like a attended a bowling meet. bowling, you don’t just throw a ball mentor,” said Vanderbilt about Brandt. “It is just something that I can’t down a lane,” said Vanderbilt. “Even thought I’m older than him, I watch,” said White. “Bowling isn’t like When approaching a lane, still look up to him.” football or basketball, those sports are Vanderbilt said, “I shake, my heart Like any sport, bowling takes a lot interesting to watch and fast paced.” races and I even start to sweat.” of effort and team support. The team Like White, the majority of the Loy For many athletes, bowling is a way practices for an hour and a half three Norrix student body has never attended to release built up tension and anger. times a week at three different lanes a meet. Raven says that her teammate, around Kalamazoo. However, White said, “If I was Zach, bowls better when he is having a Vanderbilt said, “Bowling is really playing it might be a different story.” tough day. “It’s almost like he shatters fun, but also very competitive.” She Mia Leibold / KnightLife News “I didn’t know there was technique the pins,” said Vanderbilt. enjoys this because it proves that Junior Zach Brandt approaches the lane at behind bowling, I thought it was all Junior Zach Brandt is a star on bowling, like many other high school Eastland Bowl on Saturday February 4th. fun and games at first,” said Raven the men’s bowling team and has been sports, can be taken seriously. Brandt had a total of 18 strikes against Vanderbilt. bowling for 14 years. Kalamazoo Christian. Raven Vanderbilt began bowling So far, Brandt is 6-2 on the 2013 20 Sports from SHOOTINGS page 17 Skateboarding is a positive influence on teens Knight Rises theater shooting, a copycat named Neil Prescott, calling himself “The Joker,” was arrested in his house after calling the police and saying, “I’m going to load all of my guns and blow people up.” Prescott was arrested in his house where 25 guns were found along with over 1000 rounds of ammunition. With all of the speculation about motive, the main motive for shooters is to get attention. These days, if you want to do something that will draw attention, you do something horrific. It doesn’t matter what kind of act, if it is bad enough all news outlets will eventually cover it. The shooters know that the news will cover the event in explicit detail. For six months, the shooter’s name will be seen on every TV screen or newspaper, and they will have gotten exactly what they wanted, attention. When covering a shooting, don’t turn it into a spectacle, don’t start with sirens blaring and children screaming. Simply state the facts and don’t turn the shooter into an antihero. With hope, this attitude should deter other people willing to Branden VanZile / Knight Life News do anything to get noticed. Nils Miron doing a kickflip over the kicker at the Portage Skatepark. Kickflips are one of his favorite tricks, even though he is Public shootings are, unfortunately, becoming capable of doing a lot of tricks that are more advanced. more common and you can choose who to blame Branden VanZile day kickflips are one of his favorite tricks. He pops for yourself. There is never one thing to blame, Knight Life News them high, lands them clean, and applies them to an but increased coverage of a public shooting will endless variety of obstacles. increase the chance of another shooting. “Alright, foot placement is important here, your “Nils is the best! He is so steezy, and he won’t be You can’t abolish the freedom of the press, but front foot goes on the bolts, and your back foot in the happy with a kickflip until he gets it bolts. He always you also can’t shout “fire” in a movie theatre. middle of the tail. The key to doing an ollie is to push makes me feel like my kickflips suck, and that’s Don’t glorify a horrible act of violence, simply down with your back foot, and slide your front foot why I love skating with him,” said freshman Joshua state the facts and respect the deceased. If you up at the same time.” Trudgeon-Pollock. give shooters the attention they don’t deserve, These words from an instructional “how-to- Josh and Nils frequently skate together, and, along then more shootings will happen. But, if you skate” youtube video had been playing in the back with many other members of their “crew,” push each discuss the mental health issues of a shooter, of senior Nils Miron’s head that entire day. He had other to skate as hard as they can and try new things. then maybe public shootings will become less been contemplating and working hard ever since he Nils skated purely for fun. It didn’t upset him to common. decided to teach himself to skateboard. see people better than him; it simply inspired him. He Nils Miron started skateboarding towards the end loved the feeling of success when he did a sweet trick from MARIJUANA page 16 of his 8th grade year, and, like everyone else, had to or learned a new one. He just wanted to practice, 2. Selling, distributing, or transferring marijuana start somewhere. He was able to obtain a traditional to become better, and to experience the feeling of to minors is still a crime. “Wal-Mart board” through the funding of his parents accomplishment that came with it. 3. Driving under the influence of marijuana will and began his skateboarding career with “hippy “Each time I learn a new trick I just feel so remain illegal. jumps,” “kick turns,” and “manuals.” accomplished. The feeling is hard to capture with 4. Marijuana will only be sold in legitimate stores “When I started off skateboarding, naturally, I words, but it’s similar to working hard on something that acquire a state license to sell. Individuals was awful. I started skating late, so everyone that and finally completing it,” said Nils. selling marijuana on their own behalf will be skated who was my age was better than me, but I Nils has a passion for skateboarding because it’s prosecuted. didn’t mind, what mattered was that I was enjoying something he loves, not because he feels a need to be 5. Individuals that are legally able to consume myself,” said Nils. competitive. marijuana will not do it in any public place, but in When summer hit Nils wanted to skate every “I don’t really skate to go professional or be the a closed environment. chance he got, he was teaching himself most of the best by any means, I skate because I really enjoy it. 6. It will be labeled and subject to additional time, and didn’t know very many people that shared I like the idea that it’s something that I can do in my regulations to ensure that consumers are informed his hobby, but if there was anyone he could get tips free time and make progress in,” said Nils. and protected. from he would take them. Nils went on to his sophomore and junior By legalizing marijuana, a study done by the With the start of high school, Nils had his work year with skateboarding and school in mind. He Colorado Center on Law and Policy projects cut out for him. He attended the Kalamazoo Area maintained an outstanding GPA, joined several extra- that 46 million dollars from both state and local Math and Science Center (KAMSC) in the morning curricular activities and still managed to continue taxes will be brought in yearly and nearly 12 and Loy Norrix in the afternoon. He was prepared skateboarding in his free time. Nils plans to continue million dollars will be saved in law enforcement for the rigour of KAMSC courses, but he didn’t skateboarding into his adult life and says that his from marijuana related offences. Illegal sale of necessarily expect several hours of homework a passion won’t die easy. marijuana happens every single day, why not make night. “I can’t see myself giving up skating anytime money off of that and save money with our law “While I was still in KAMSC the homework just soon, I love it, and it probably will never stop being enforcement? kept piling up, I didn’t have as much time for skating, fun for me,” said Nils. Finally, every American citizen has the right but I felt like it was important to skate everyday, if As a senior Nils is still devoted to skateboarding. to the pursuit of happiness. Most of us know that only for a little bit,” said Nils. He keeps true to his routine of skateboarding every our pursuit of happiness ends when it infringes on School slowed his skate life down, but it wasn’t single day, and he works hard to perfect every trick the happiness of another living person. Smoking able to bring it to a grinding halt. Nils was able to before he moves on to the next. marijuana does not, in any way, contribute to learn how to “kickflip” within the first few months Nils encourages other high schoolers to take up damaging another persons pursuit of happiness. of his freshman year. He saw this as the first stepping skating as a positive hobby in their lives. He says that By revoking the federal law, Americans can decide stone to becoming a good skateboarder. The kickflip, skateboarding is a great way to set goals for yourself, the legality of marijuana state by state. being a beginner trick, is still extremely useful, make friends, be competitive, and maintain a healthy and he felt it was quite an accomplishment. To this body.