K N I G H T L I F E VoL 56, ISSUE 4 APRIL 2016 KKALAMAZOO, MICHIGANL LOY NORRIX HIGH SCHOOL KALAMAZOO MARCHES FOR BERNIE SANDERS NoraHilgart-Griff A group of people marched down Michigan Avenue and through the downtown Kalamazoo Mall the evening of Friday, March 4th, carrying posters, banners and signs promoting presidential candidate Senator Bernie Sanders (D, Vermont). As they walked, they could be heard chanting support for the candidate, as well as information for Kalamazoo voters. Revolution! Revolution! Wall Street got bailed out! Main Street got SOLD out! Who do we want? Bernie! When do we vote? March 8th! According to Kristin Grinwis, a Kalamazoo supporter who organized the walk, sharing information about the March 8th Michigan primary was a key aim of the event. “I’ve been working with Ben [the Kalamazoo Sanders campaign organizer] at the Kalamazoo office. I knew Art Hop was going on and knew we needed to get out the vote. Several people I talked to while canvassing for Bernie didn’t even know the Michigan primary was March 8th, so we wanted to raise awareness,” said Grinwis. According to michigan.gov, a record approximately 1.5 million people turned out to vote in the 2012 Michigan Primary- -but that record breaking number was a mere 19 percent of Michigan’s voting- age population. So, it’s no wonder that each and every campaign is focused on the simple goal of getting people out of their houses and into to their polling BERNIE RALLY PAGE 2 “MORE TIME LEARNING! LESS TIME TESTING!” LOY NORRIX ADVOCATES FOR

a.m. on February 17, approximately FEWER STANDARDIZED TESTS 20 teachers, 15 students, 2 school board members, 2 support staff, 2 administrators and the KPS Union President conducted a “walk-in” outside the tower to show their support for a reduction of standardized tests. Due to the growing number of supporters as the walk-in progressed, it was easy to see just how passionate Loy Norrix was about this issue. Kalamazoo Public Schools was not the only district involved in this walk-in. Nationwide, over 9 thousand public school systems participated in the walk-in, uniting to prove the importance of a more curricular, less testing-based national education. English Department Head Brianna English, one of the teachers who attended the walk-in, feels that Students and teachers standing in line welcoming students as they standardized tests don’t accurately arrive to school. They chant together, “More time learning! Less time show a student’s growth. testing!” Photo Credit / Christian Baker Senior Ahmed Younis taking a stand “Students are expected to show against standardized tests. Younis RubyHensley everything they’ve learned in one day, was one of the other 14 students in A day in the life of an average However, thanks to the recent which is unrealistic,” said English. attendance. Photo Credit / Christian American high school student: wake change to the No Child Left Behind “We’re forced to take time away Baker up, eat breakfast, and go to school. Act (NCLB), our anxieties over from our curriculum to do test prep the district. The further funding of a Another day, prepping towards standardized testing may soon be instead of teaching critical thinking school district can sometimes be based another big test. The annual ritual over. The Elementary and Secondary and more important skills. Teachers solely on how their students perform of filling in an endless sea of bubbles Education Act (ESEA) now leaves many suddenly have to teach kids how to do on these state-wide, or even nation- with a dull pencil is a feeling many decisions on federal and state testing to well on a test they haven’t even done wide tests. students know too well. The mere the individual states, and it is clear that themselves.” Amanda Miller, Union President sound of a 3-5 letter test acronym the Loy Norrix staff and student body It is clear that many teachers find of the KPS district, feels that scores makes students cringe and groan: are ready to see a change for the better. issues with standardized testing, but should not be the deciding factor on a SAT, ACT, M-STEP, MEAP. From around 6:50 a.m. to 7:20 standardized testing is also an issue for SEE WALK-IN PAGE 11 BERNIE RALLY FROM PAGE 1 their houses and into to their polling bothered by that because I felt like my 1,000 people; an amazing feat, despite places. voice had been taken away. When I less-than-stellar media coverage of the Grinwis expressed her excitement found out about Bernie Sanders, and events. at the march’s large turnout. the extent to which he opposed that, I “That’s what the political revolution “The whole thing came together got really excited,” said Roth, looking is about,” said Roth, “Getting people in about 24 hours. I made the event out into the crowd. “That’s when I knew involved, getting people passionate and around 6 p.m. the night before, and I had to get involved.” giving everybody a voice.” I think it turned out better than we Indeed, much of the enthusiasm Roth also encouraged supporters could have hoped! It’s been fantastic,” for the longtime Senator comes from to volunteer, saying “everyone needs to said Grinwis. the fact he doesn’t have a Super PAC: take part and be involved.” Indeed, the mood was electric organizations, which, according to Anyone who wishes to offer their among the crowd. The group shouted, OpenSecrets: a Center for Responsive time can go to berniesanders.com “Feel the Bern!” as they walked down Politics, “may raise unlimited sums to find out how to make phone calls Photo Credit / Brooks Eisenbise the Kalamazoo Mall, momentarily of money from corporations, unions, and canvass in their area or visit the holding up traffic, and huge cheers associations and individuals, then Sanders campaign office in Kalamazoo life,” said Spink. rose up every time a car honked its spend unlimited sums to overtly at 4038 N Westnedge. Many of the attendees echoed this support or a passerby grabbed a sign advocate for or against political As the Kalamazoo crowd waved sentiment, regarding the reliability of and joined the throng. candidates.” signs reading “Future Voters for Sanders’ politics. As people dined in local The Sanders campaign is instead Bernie,” “Bernie Sanders: Not for Sale,” “I think it’s gotta come back to the restaurants or shopped at local funded by millions of small-dollar “Join the Political Revolution,” “A people,” said Spink, “and Bernie’s got galleries, they looked out to see individual donations, at an average of Future to Believe in,” “Finally, a Reason that. He’s always had that.” Kalamazoo resident Adam Roth $27 apiece. to Vote” and of course, the unofficial leading the crowd, walking at the This isn’t the first time a city tagline of the campaign, “Feel The PHOTO FROM PAGE 1 front of the procession and starting has joined together in what Sanders Bern,” Kalamazoo resident Scott Spink Sophomore Maddie Preussel attends new cheers. His passion for the himself calls “the political revolution.” offered his thoughts. downtown Bernie rally in Kalamazoo. candidate was clear as he organized On January 24th, in what US Uncut “I’ve followed Bernie through the “I really enjoyed supporting a guy who can change the country and the the movements of the group. reported as “the first-ever nationwide years, and I think he’s always fought world,” said Preussel. Photo Credit / “When I found out about Citizens March for a presidential candidate,” for the people. He’s fighting against Brooks Eisenbise United, a Supreme Court decision people in more than 35 cities took to the media, he’s fighting against this that allows huge corporations to make the streets to voice their support for the establishment party that’s trying unlimited donations to public officials campaign. In Chicago, Portland and to push him out, but he’s been so and politicians, I was incredibly Boston, each city’s march drew over consistent in his message for his whole

2 knightlifenews.com NEWS THE OBAMA ADMINSTRATION LEAVES LEGACY GraceMarshall “I grew up with Obama, I really is trying to do will be stalled. When Affordable Care Act,” or Obamacare. did,” said senior Luis Juarez. “In 2008 a president comes in, they need one Signed into law on March 23, he was elected as president, and it term to fix anything from the previous 2010, Obamacare gives over 10 was a time of change for our country presidency and their second term is million uninsured Americans and for ‘we the young people.’ He truly their term.” access to affordable, high-quality was elected as we moved on to the One milestone moment in Obama’s health insurance through Medicaid next stage in our life, moving up into presidency was when, in 2010, he expansion, their employers, and the middle school, and now he’s stepping signed the legislation to repeal “Don’t Health Insurance Marketplace. down from office, and we will be Ask, Don’t Tell,” a policy banning In order to get the money to help graduating high school this year.” openly gay men and women from insure all these people, new taxes have This year is Barack Obama’s last serving in the military. He is also the been implemented (mostly on the year in office, and with much of the first president to openly support gay wealthy and the healthcare industry). nation’s focus turned towards the marriage. On June 26, 2015, during Obamacare’s many protections campaign trail, Obama’s final year has Obama’s second term, the United ensure that you can’t be dropped faded into the background. One debate States Supreme Court ruled gay from coverage or denied coverage that still remains is, “Was Obama a marriage as legal in all 50 states. based on your current health status. Photo Credit / Wikipedia good president?” “Our nation was founded on Additionally, you can’t be charged to keep them. Many were outraged His presidency has been the a bedrock principle that we are all more for being a woman. Other when the Independence Blue Cross subject of much controversy, a primary created equal,” Obama said in an protections ensure that you have the sent its customers a notice saying reason being that he is the first African address in the Rose Garden after the right to a rapid appeal, that health that as a result of the Affordable American president. Many have also ruling. “The project of each generation insurance companies can’t make Care Act, “your current plan will be pointed out Obama’s lack of success is to bridge the meaning of those unjustified rate hikes, and that these discontinued effective January 1, in fully completing his agenda. Others founding words with the realities of companies must spend the majority of 2014, and you will need to select a feel that Obama deserves more credit changing times -- a never-ending quest premium dollars on care, not paying new plan by the end of December to than he is given. to ensure those words ring true for executives. avoid any interruption in coverage.” “No, I don’t believe he was as every single American. [...] This ruling Obama’s biggest accomplishment Obama was quick to assure everyone unsuccessful as people portray him is a victory for America. This decision is also his most criticized. Obamacare that their new insurance would be as,” said Loy Norrix government and affirms what millions of Americans has faced many obstacles during the better, but people remained angry law teacher Niambi Pringle. “What already believe in their hearts: when all implementation of the act. and skeptical. people need to understand is that Americans are treated as equal we are During the implementation When the Obamacare as president you have to go through all more free.” of Obamacare, President Obama website healthcare.gov launched Congress, and when Congress and the Arguably, President Obama’s promised many times that if people unsuccessfully, the president insisted president are from opposing parties, biggest accomplishment while in liked their current healthcare plan and that Obamacare was more than a a lot of the work that the president office is the “Patient Protection and their doctor then they would be able SEE OBAMA PAGE 11

NEWS knightlifenews.com 3 TRAGEDY IN KALAMAZOO SHOCKS CITY MaxOfferman where he murdered four people and States has had the most mass shootings was a shared thought among many The horrific events that unfolded injured two. in the world- an astounding 133. The during the night of the shooting. on Saturday, February 20th in Among the victims were, a senior at next highest country is Germany, with As a community, this event brought us Kalamazoo shocked and traumatized Mattawan High School and his father, only six. closer and served as a reminder of how citizens of the city more commonly a retired teacher from Battle Creek This senseless violence has precious life is. Treasure the moments known for its bustling student life, and her three friends, a 14 year old girl prompted even further arguments you have and the people who surround local breweries, appreciation of nature, and other innocent people enjoying a on gun control within the Kalamazoo you. art scene, and many more wonderful typical Saturday night. community and around the country. Stay strong, Kalamazoo. attributes. He was arraigned on Monday, President Barack Obama called Jason Brian Dalton, a husband and February 22nd for six charges of Kalamazoo officials shortly after to pay father of two, was the lone shooter who murder, two counts of assault with his respects and discuss the incident. made national news after murdering intent to commit murder and eight “You’ve got families that are six people and critically injuring two counts of felony firearm use. shattered today… We need to do more others over the span of only 5 hours. A violent act of this level has not [concerning gun control],” said Obama, The first warning signs were occurred in Michigan since 2011, when observing that his executive actions present at 5:30 p.m. when Dalton was a man in Grand Rapids killed seven regulating firearm sales are sadly not allegedly driving erratically and refused people. Unfortunately, as of February enough to prevent the violence of mass to stop while with an Uber client, 2016, this is the 42nd mass shooting shootings. forcing the passenger to eventually in the United States (a mass shooting Students of Loy Norrix were not jump from the vehicle. is defined as an incident with four or spared from the drama and the fear Around 6:00 p.m., he shot a more victims). that enveloped the community on the woman who defended children on In response to the terrifying 20th. a playground outside of Meadows attacks, Kalamazoo pushes for “healing, Junior James Rinehart said he was Townhomes, but her injuries were not not hatred” and there were two vigils “scared for others and himself,” as the fatal. organized to honor the innocent situation progressed that night. A little over four hours later, he victims. At one vigil, a pastor clearly Senior Grant Mitchell said, “I murdered a man and his son outside of demonstrated kindness and grace by woke up [the next morning] to a text Seelye Ford Kia Dealership while they leading a prayer for the shooter. saying ‘get home safe’ and I heard what Jason Brian Dalton is the convicted shooter in the February 20th shooting. were looking at cars. Unfortunately, mass shootings happened and just thought… that’s Photo Credit / Kalamazoo County Shortly after, Dalton’s final attack seem to regularly plaster local and crazy.” Sheriff’s Office was at the Cracker Barrel on 9th Street, national news. Since 2000, the United ‘These things don’t happen here’ UPDATE ON THE KALAMAZOO SHOOTING RubyHensley On the night of February 20, terror counts of assault with intent to commit Foodies Catering struck our town with the random murder and eight counts of felony murders of six people in Texas firearm.” 5749 Stadium Drive, Kalamazoo Mi township. Two more were wounded and Unfortunately, acts of violence like 269-806-0972 only recently declared in stable health this are not uncommon in everyday life. by Borgess Medical Center. Due to the In 2015, there were a gut-wrenching 355 complexity and senselessness of the mass shootings in the United States. We cater ... situation, there was much confusion There have been 49 incidents of these past few months throughout mass gun violence within the first - Graduation Parties Kalamazoo, even across the country, 3 months of 2016. Many people in about what exactly happened during the Kalamazoo were shocked that something - Holiday Parties attacks. of this magnitude would affect our town. Luckily, we are no longer in the dark Luckily, both Tiana Carruthers - Retirement Parties due to the tireless efforts of the people and Abigail Kopf are in recovery and investigating this terrible tragedy. Here doing much better. The community has - and more! are the truths to this case: rallied together to pay for their medical Six people are dead: Mary Jo Nye (60), bills on gofundme.com, a website used Mary Lou Nye (64), Barbara Hawthorne to provide money via paypal to those (68), Dorothy Brown (74), Tyler Smith raising awareness to a cause, trying (17) and Richard Smith (53). to make ends meet, even to pay for Two people, a woman named Tiana school trips. Kopf’s site raised over $65 From the farm to the table, Carruthers and Abigail Kopf, were thousand, while Carruthers’ site raised All fresh quality ingredients severely wounded but are now on their over $18 thousand. way to full recovery. Although this tragedy is one that Jason Dalton, the prime suspect has shocked Kalamazoo, situations like and now convicted killer behind these these time and time again have shown We can customize shootings, told police that, according to the resilience that Kalamazoo truly has. your menu based CNN, “the Uber app literally took over We are a community that unites around on your specific budget! his mind.” the common good and this incident will According to wzzm13, Dalton is not damage all the good that comes from facing “six counts of open murder, two this city.

4 knightlifenews.com NEWS DEADPOOL BREAKS SUPERHERO STANDARDS ZachLiddle On February 12th, “Deadpool” was released. Deadpool as well. about 17 and above, young teens at about 15 may find Director Tim Miller is responsible for the creation of Wade Wilson, a former special operatives it to be okay. this film. This movie is a R-rated film for a very good agent, is now a working mercenary and picks up “Deadpool” was a great film for comedy and reason; it contains nudity, violence and swearing. jobs wherever he can get paid. He is later diagnosed action. This concoction of action and humor made Deadpool, however, is known for his violence and with cancer and becomes very sick. Wade is later $134 million during opening weekend. Finally, inappropriate language. approached, while looking for another payment, during the post credit scene, Ryan Reynolds confirms Tim Miller created a record breaking film. It had by an unknown man in a suit. The man offers him that there is movement towards a “Deadpool 2.” the biggest opening weekend for a R-rated film, the a chance to have his cancer cured if he simply goes biggest opening weekend for a first time director, through some tests made by an organization called biggest 20th Century Fox debut and many more, as Weapon X. stated by Forbes journalist, Scott Mendelson. These tests will give him an ability called “a “Deadpool” stars lead actor Ryan Reynolds as healing factor” which allows him to heal any wound Deadpool, Morena Baccarin as Deadpool’s love or ailment almost instantly. This test, while it does interest and T. J. Miller as Weasel (Deadpool’s give him the healing factor, also puts his cancer into a friend/weapon supplier). Stan Lee made his normal sort of overdrive and the cancer scars his entire body. cameo as well. He was shown as a strip club DJ and He becomes basically a walking tumor. had very little dialogue which is the norm. “Deadpool” was rated an 8.7 out of 10 on The movie did a great job of portraying Deadpool. its Internet Movie Database (IMDB) page and He was made to be very witty and intentionally break is awarded an 84 percent on the Rotten Tomato the fourth wall which leads him to realize he is in a website. Although it was a great comedy, it is not fun movie or comic book. This trait gives him the ability for the whole family. This movie contains content This is Deadpool from a fan’s teaser trailer. Photo to make humorous statements that others cannot that may not be kid-friendly but that is for the parent Credit / www.thewrap.com make and fully immerse the audience in the movie. to decide whether or not it is appropriate for their This film followed the original comic backstory of children. This would mostly fit into the age group of

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ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT knightlifenews.com 5 AN ASTROLOGICAL CHANGE IN IDENTITY SHOCKS EVERYONE

CaitlinCommissaris Pisces The Fish Aries The Ram Old Dates: Feb 20-Mar 20 Old Dates: Mar 21-Apr 20 New Dates: Mar 12-Apr 18 New Dates: Apr 19-May 13

Traits: Alluring, Free, Sensual, Traits: Brave, Independent, Sensitive, Can’t Function Alone. Assertive, Impulsive.

Aquarius The Water Bearer Old Dates: Jan 21-Feb 19 New Dates: Feb 17-Mar 11

Traits: Trendy, Innovative, Admired, If you identify strongly with think they should have added a Distant, Eccentric. your astrological sign, prepare new sign out of nowhere because for a shock. Due to a shift in everyone says that their zodiac Taurus The Bull the moon’s gravitational pull symbol actually reflects them and on Earth, the alignment of the their traits,” said Alexander. Old Dates: Apr 21-May 21 stars has been moved forward by According to TIME, the New Dates: May 14-Jun 19 roughly a month. Meaning there Babylonians originally had Traits: Tasteful, Sensual, Down is a thirteenth sign, so whatever thirteen constellations but only to Earth, Pleasure Seeking, zodiac sign you’ve identified wanted to have twelve. Having Stubborn. previously with has most likely twelve signs just seemed tidier Capricorn The Goat changed. to the Ancient Babylonians. This Old Dates: Dec 23-Jan 20 “I am a Scorpio. For me that provoked astrologers to throw New Dates: Jan 21-Feb 16 will never change,” said junior out one of the constellations, Emma Greschak. Ophiuchus, which is the sign Traits: Hardworking, Straight- Now many are frustrated with of the snake holder. However, Forward, Loyal, Stubborn, Not this shift in signs and do not feel astrologers were irritated by the Content Until at Top. like they can associate themselves inaccuracy of the twelve signs, Gemini The Twins with this new sign, as they have so they wanted to bring the identified with the previous thirteenth sign back into focus. Old Dates: May 22- Jun 21 sign since they were born. Some Ophiuchus is the sign for anyone New Dates: Jun 20-Jul 20 people even have their zodiac born between November 29th Traits: Dynamic, Talented, Gamer, sign as a permanent tattoo. and December 17th. Two-faced, Mischievous. “I am a Leo. I like my tattoo The characteristics of this because it means something sign differ from the original to me. Ironically the lion is my twelve because it is associated The Archer Sagittarius favorite animal. I can relate to with a real person, Imhotep, Old Dates: Nov 23-Dec 22 what my sign means and what which means “The one who New Dates: Dec 18-Jan 20 kind of person someone may be comes in peace, is with peace,” based on their sign,” said senior according to “International Traits: Open-minded, Achiever, Tate Alexander about his original Business Times.” Anyone under Loving, Insensitive, Cold. sign. this sign is said to be well- Cancer The Crab Certain people who keep up regarded by authorities, a seeker Old Dates: Jun 22-Jul 22 with their horoscopes say that of wisdom and able to progress New Dates: Jul 21-Aug 9 they relate with the traits of their well through life. original sign more so than the If you are interested in your Traits: Sensitive, Friend-Oriented, traits of their new sign. They new sign take a look! You may be Practical, Forgives but Never have been identifying with the surprised at the characteristics Forgets. Ophiuchus The Snake Holder same sign since birth and are not associated with the new zodiac willing to accept a new one. sign. Old Dates: None, New Sign “I’m definitely a Leo, I don’t New Dates: Nov 30-Dec 17

Traits: Authoritative, Seeker of Wisdom, Progress Well Through Life.

Leo The Lion Old Dates: Jul 23-Aug 21 New Dates: Aug 10-Sep 15

Traits: Creative, Popular, Faithful, Dominating, Prideful. Scorpio The Scorpion Libra The Scales Virgo The Virgin Old Dates: Oct 24-Nov 22 Old Dates: Sep 24-Oct 23 Old Dates: Aug 22-Sep 23 New Dates: Nov 23-Nov 29 New Dates: Oct 31-Nov 22 New Dates: Sep 16-Oct 30

Traits: Self-Reliant, Powerful, Traits: Irresistible, Adventurous, Traits: Successful, Creative, Likes Wise, Dominant, Secretive. Indecisive, Complicated to Please, Clever, Leader. Relations. Zodiac Traits taken from: http://tuttlestechies.weebly.com/zodiac.html 6 knightlifenews.com ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT GORDON LUSCOMB: LEADING THE FRONT LINE OF LOY NORRIX SPORTS staff and families. At first, he was just a lot of camping, not during the winter, helping hand to his daughter, who used too cold for that. I also babysit my to work at Loy Norrix’s sporting events. grandson (7) and my great-grand- “My daughter used to work at these daughter (9 months). I watch them, events, and one day [she] needed help not full time of course,” said Gordon. at a game,” Gordon said. “He’s retired and looking for an Athletic Director Andrew Laboe easy retirement job,” Laboe continued. has known Gordon and his family for a “I like him because he’s a nice person while now. to greet at the door. We love him.” “Gordon is related to Pam Stohrer. Luscomb is very fond of his job. Pam’s kids graduated from Loy Norrix He enjoys coming to each sporting and I got to know her kids from event, and he plans to continue selling teaching them when I was a teacher at tickets in the future. Milwood,” said Laboe. “I have a lot of fun at it [the Gordon, Stohrer’s dad, has now sporting events and selling tickets], taken over. and I get a free bag of popcorn and Ever since, Gordon helped out his pop every time,” said Gordon with a daughter and has now taken over her laugh. “The kids are my favorite part. I role. Gordon “runs the ticket booth” at enjoy the students.” home events and welcomes everyone MakennaSandt into Loy Norrix with a smile. Anyone who has ever been to a Loy here at Loy Norrix. Everyone knows “Now she helps me, and the roles Norrix sporting event knows who he who Gordon is by face, but does anyone have switched,” said Gordon. is: the man welcoming every person to truly know Gordon himself? Outside of working the games, the game and selling a ticket to them He has been working at Loy Gordon is retired and does a lot of so they can enjoy a night of high school Norrix’s home sporting event for about other things with his time such as sports. five years, selling tickets and welcoming camping and spending time with his Gordon Luscomb is the man that every person that walks through the grandchildren. people always see at sporting events doors. He is a familiar face to students, “During the summer mostly I do a PRACTICING INTERSECTIONAL FEMINISM AT LOY NORRIX

are seeking to make their own and the “intersectional” part is the definition of feminism and to end the kicker. Intersectional feminism is the misconceptions that are so abundant belief that feminism no longer serves when it comes to modern feminism. only white, middle class women who “We just looked at each other one are cisgendered and perfectly healthy day and we’re like, ‘We should start in body and mind. a feminist club!’”said sophomore When first-wave feminism Madison Preussel, one of the members came about, the movement focused that was instrumental in the formation specifically on white women and their of the club. rights. Knight Life has not been able to First-wave feminism focused find any evidence of Loy Norrix ever on women’s suffrage (the right attempting to establish a Feminist club to vote). Second-wave feminism before 2016. focused on women’s sexual rights While sitting in English class, like domestic violence, sexual abuse three sophomores decided that they and rape awareness. Finally, third- were passionate enough and had the wave feminism has focused on drive to start up a new club. Naomi equal representation of women in Sophomore Gaia Bogan and sophomore Natalie Nelson discuss topics Verne, Kendra Eaton and Madison popular culture and pushing for the at a Tuesday Feminist Club meeting. The group is discussing cultural Preussel began to plan for the club and acknowledgment of women in TV, film, approriation, self defense and cat calling. Photo Credit / Carsten Strand what exactly it would stand for. They music and general entertainment. All CarstenStrand needed a teacher to be the sponsor, and of these focuses have mostly been lead Feminists get a bad rap. Identifying in a way, “overthrow” men around the eventually came to Rebecca Layton, and supported by white women and it as a feminist is something that some world. a psychology and sociology teacher. caters to them specifically as well. people are reluctant to do because All of these associations and Layton graciously accepted and the Now intersectionality has people tend to incorrectly associate the concepts are false. We can now analyze club got to work. They then started appeared on the feminism spectrum. word with negative things, things like how students, while still staying true to coming up with a name and forming an Intersectionality can include everyone, the demeaning term “Feminazi”; the the correct definition, are beginning to identity within the school. regardless of age, race, sexuality, belief that feminists hate all men, or move against the negative tide. The club is called ‘The that feminists want to gain power to, Here at Loy Norrix, students Intersectional Feminist Club,” (or IFC) SEE FEMINISM PAGE 15

FEATURE knightlifenews.com 7 PRACTICING SELF CARE IN HIGH SCHOOL IS ESSENTIAL

with them about the food they buy Sometimes an overwhelming could be beneficial. amount of homework is unavoidable. Drink a lot of water! Besides being It’s been proven that the human necessary for survival, water is helpful capacity to focus on a single task is for maintaining a proper balance of approximately twenty minutes. Luckily, bodily fluids, controlling calorie intake, this is easy to counteract by taking energizing muscles and keeping skin short breaks. A break can be anything looking healthy. from just sitting and letting the mind Self-care doesn’t only apply to wander for a minute to getting up and physical well-being; maintaining making a snack. It really comes down psychological well-being is extremely to individual preferences and time important as well. For high schoolers constraints. who suffer from mental illness, The benefits of practicing self- maintaining psychological well-being care are numerous. According to Live takes on a whole new meaning. Science, “Self-care tends to improve A few general rules to abide by our immunity, increase positive are to always take any medication thinking and make us less susceptible at the proper time of day, to take to stress, depression, anxiety and other the prescribed dose and make sure emotional health issues.” to prioritize doctor and therapy Not only that, but having positive Maple Street Middle School 8th grader Isabella Lager practices her nightly self- appointments. relationships with ourselves can care routine. It’s a habit she’s been trying to get into since the beginning of the For those who don’t suffer mental make our relationships with others school year. Photo Credit / Maggie Lager illness, there are a few tips that apply much healthier and significantly more to almost everyone when it comes to positive. MaggieLager making day-to-day life stress-free and “You have to be good to yourself “I work fifteen hours a week, and students could tell you that these as positive as possible. before you can be good to other I have [Kalamazoo Area Math and standards aren’t realistic. It’s important for students to avoid people,” said junior Shane Harrelson. Science Center] KAMSC. I used to “I think it is a little unrealistic. It’s overscheduling themselves so much “Because you’re the first person that take piano lessons, but I don’t have hard for kids who are trying to make that there’s not enough time in the day you know how to be good to.” time anymore,” said senior Ben Byrd, high school a meaningful experience,” for them to do things they enjoy. For Winter has been hard on everyone. “KAMSC and a job is absurd.” said freshman Michael Heinds. most, spending at least an hour a day It’s almost the end of the school year, It’s the middle of April Everyone practices self-care on something enjoyable can be enough it’s cold, it gets dark early and students and the school year is beginning to differently due to a variety of needs, to get through even the most stressful strive to see more of the sun. It’s only take a toll on students all over the schedules and time constraints. It’s day. natural that some have a hard time school. Balancing a full schedule, important to keep in mind that all self- “Video games, movie watching and remaining positive or maintaining their a part-time job, homework and care is valid and important, whether reading are essential,” said Byrd. “If I well-being. However, as you battle pressure from colleges to participate in accomplished first thing in the morning didn’t play video games, I’d probably through the last few weeks of winter, extracurricular activities is extremely or in the middle of the night. be on drugs or something.” fight mindfully, keeping your physical stressful. In some cases, so stressful It’s especially important for high It’s helpful to get assignments and psychological health in mind. that sometimes students forget their school students to maintain their done when they’re due and manage You only get one you. Your body number one priority: their own well- physical health. Having an active and time as wisely as possible. Some and your mind are the most valuable being. healthy lifestyle doesn’t necessarily teachers will give more than one day things you will ever have. Make an “It’s a balancing act, really, with mean going to the gym five times a to complete an assignment. It’s always effort to treat them that way. sleep and homework, where you need week. For those who are struggling to smart to take advantage of that by to get enough sleep but have enough discover a physical activity they enjoy, doing a little bit of the work each day. time for homework,” said senior there are less physically demanding Mitchell Rockwell. options such as taking a walk or Self-care, as defined by the practicing yoga; neither cost any money International Self-Care Foundation, or require a lot of physical fitness. is “what people do for themselves to For those feeling especially establish and maintain health, and to stressed, a good option is to take a bath prevent and deal with illness.” instead of a shower. Taking a bath is Self-care is a broad concept said to improve blood circulation, aid encompassing hygiene, nutrition, sleep, eliminate headaches and reduce lifestyle, environmental factors, socio- anxiety. economic factors and self-medication. Feeling sluggish? A change in diet Contrary to popular belief, self- could be the solution. A lot of high care is not selfish. It’s an imperative schoolers eat fast food multiple times part of taking responsibility for one’s a week because they don’t have a lot own well-being and living up to their of time or money. While convenient, full potential. fast food is high in calories and low High school students are in nutrients. By making a trip to the always being preached to about the grocery store just once a week, it’s importance of getting enough sleep, possible for anyone to drastically making healthy choices and managing reduce or eliminate fast food from their their time wisely. Though this is good diet altogether. For those who live with advice, the majority of high school their parents, having a conversation Luxury Senior Living

8 knightlifenews.com FEATURE The torch is lit to signify the start of the games. Around 1,000 volunteers, athletes and sponsors came to the games. Photo Credit / Reace Hammel

Loy Norrix juniors (from left to right) Reace Hammel, Erika Wagoner and Madeline Skiles and Portage Central junior Alessondra Valle take a break from volunteering to pose on the podium. Photo Credit / Kathy Nyberg STUDENTS VOLUNTEER AT WINTER SPECIAL OLYMPICS

RachelZook Since 1968, the Special including alpine skiing, cross- Olympics has been transforming country skiing, snowboarding and communities and giving millions of snowshoeing. athletes with intellectual disabilities “First there was an opening in the world the opportunity to ceremony, then they skied down the take part in over 94 thousand biggest hill with the torch lit and competitions every year. According then we split off into our events. to the Special Olympics website, We went to the cross country skiing the Special Olympics has “become course and guided them if they the largest global public health needed help. Then after that we organization dedicated to serving got all the awards set up and we people with intellectual disabilities.” announced who won and gave them Loy Norrix junior Reace medals,” said Hammel. All the volunteers pose for a group photo in front of the Timber Ridge lodge. Hammel got the opportunity to Hammel, along with around Volunteers are all part of the health science EFE. Photo Credit / Kathy Nyberg take part in this year’s Southwest one thousand other volunteers, Regional Special Olympics Michigan helped to make this wonderful event Winter Games, which were held at possible here in West Michigan. The Athletes complete their Timber Ridge Ski Area in Gobles, event gave participating athletes course in the cross- Michigan. Hammel’s Health Science a chance to train for the regional country skiing event. Education for Employment (EFE) winter competition and brought joy The events included teacher offered students the chance to everyone involved. snowboarding, alpine to volunteer if they were interested, “It was amazing to see their skiing, snow shoeing and she lept at the chance to be a smiles when they got their awards. and cross-country skiing. part of the games. Even if it wasn’t first place, they Photo Credit / Reace “I enjoyed being a volunteer were just so happy to be there. It Hammel at the Special Olympics because it made me feel happy to help such a was really good to give back to the great organization,” said Hammel. community and spread the love,” said Hammel. There were several events,

FEATURE knightlifenews.com 9 ANIMALS ARE THE NEW THERAPISTS TaylorKrupianik In difficult times, it’s hard to stay sick who need a quick cheering-up. positive. Humans tend to dwell on “I went through a breakup and it events and it can be difficult to cope. was like my dog could sense it, and she There are types of animals trained for was just all over me. She wanted to this job. There are service animals, comfort me and just seemed like she emotional support animals and facility wanted to make me feel better,” said animals. senior Kia Anderson. A service animal can be a dog Michele Edison works for the and, if chosen, a miniature horse. West Michigan Therapy Dogs located Mini horses can pull up to three in Grand Rapids, Michigan. They are times their weight. These animals are a non-profit organization that works individually trained to address the with children, teens and adults. They needs of someone with a disability. provide animal-assisted activities and These animals help the person be animal-assisted therapy. Edison has a Students at the Michigan State University Medical School in Grand Rapids, MI. The students practice giving puppy a check up. Photo Credit / Michele Edison alert and can perform everyday tasks dog named Watson that helps her with such as picking things up that have her work. Veterans with Post-Tramaumatic Stress pet them, they ease up and come back been dropped, reminding a person to “Dogs are great for emotional Disorder (PTSD) together. down to a calm self and can focus on take medication and even pressing an trauma. They have dogs that go to “People with PTSD usually have what is going on.” elevator button. a house fire site to help comfort the a hard time integrating into society. The study of animal therapy started Emotional Support animals are family. Dogs can also keep secrets. I However when they have their dog with in the 1990’s, and has become a career. also known as a comfort animal. They have had a young boy come to read them, they feel very confident doing Animal therapy has been accepted into are there to comfort and help a person with Watson one day. I asked him things they wouldn’t do otherwise,” everyday psychology. with a mental illness such as anxiety what was bothering him. He said he said Edison. “Animals are a great way to connect or depression. They are not considered just found out his parents were getting She explained how these animals with a person. I see it as the animal a service animal. Emotional Support a divorce. So I told him that Watson can help anyone who has gone through being a tool for a regular nurse, doctor, animals are not licensed or trained. was very good at keeping secrets and trauma and things in their lives that therapist and etc. To use an animal as These animals are typically everyday [asked if] he would like to whisper have affected them in a negative way. a tool to help the person or patient to pets. something to Watson that he wasn’t “The dog provides companionship move forward in their therapy,” said Facility animals are mainly located comfortable saying to another person,” and love, it helps the person by Edison. in a clinical setting. Animals like dogs, Edison continued. “He leaned over lowering their blood pressure and Animals are there for us when we cats, birds and fish help patients who and whispered in Watson’s ear, then knowing that the dog is their best need them, pets and trained service are hospitalized for a long period he gave Watson a big hug. He had a friend. Their dog will take care of animals. They are our emotional of time. Animals often belong to huge smile and then was interested in them.” Edison continued, “I’ve seen support. Animals are more important employees who bring these animals in continuing with his reading that day.” first hand how a Vet with PTSD may than we think, and we need them more everyday. They have dogs come in at Edison has also worked with become agitated, and as soon as they than we know. Bronson and Borgess hospitals for the an organization that puts dogs and reach down to touch their dog and DECA STUDENTS LEARN ABOUT BUSINESS AND WIN CindyBravo aspire and thrive. Some students dream of becoming DECA has been at Loy Norrix for important business owners, and others over 20 years, but it recently started plan on studying business for other to gain attention. There are about 25 reasons. There is a group at Loy Norrix members from Loy Norrix. The group which focuses on any type of business recently participated in a competition. career, and it’s called DECA. Five students who participated are DECA stands for “Distributive going to the finals. Education Clubs of America.” It’s Junior Tori Zehner who is part of an organization that specializes in the DECA group, recently participated business and focuses in growing in the one of the competitions and won students marketing, management, the three medals to go to the finals. hospitality, services and finance/ Zehner said that she was very nervous accounting. The program is available and did not feel ready for the interview. in more than 35 hundred schools, for From left to right: Olivia Russell, Chris Hybels, Tori Zehner, Maia Greer. Loy Showing up confident and acting like high school students, college students Norrix students attend 70th State DECA Meet in Detroit. Photo Credit / she knew what she was talking about and advisors. Atiba Ward made a difference. DECA is a group to help students competitions in different locations, the They ask questions based on what the “I was surprised, I did not expect to in the business industry. They cover prices vary. students major in during the event, but win at all. I didn’t really feel prepared, many topics that have to do with the During the competition there the students never know what is going but I performed with confidence and business work placement. You can are ten minute role plays. Role plays to be asked. that’s very important,” said Zehner. join the DECA group for business are similar to an interview. The ten There are three types of Atiba Ward, who teaches classes management, design, fashion and minute role plays are given to show competitions: regionals, states and like business finance, runs the DECA many more relatable business places. the students’ knowledge and skill of international. DECA has five emerging group at Loy Norrix. He saw potential DECA memberships are about $16, the subject covered. One of the DECA leading skills to experience throughout and wanted to be a part of this great but because there are different leaders are there to listen and evaluate. this event: Ignite, elevate, empower, SEE DECA PAGE 11 10 knightlifenews.com FEATURE WALK-IN FROM PAGE 2 district’s performance. tired of letting bad test scores dictate Miller said that a reduction in the success of their schools. With Prom 2016 Super Bargains standardized tests will benefit students. ESEA, education could get the boost it $89.99 to $179.99. All of our tuxedo “We can teach the whole child! We can needs and give students the education packages include tuxedo, shirt, tie teach things through discovery and they deserve. vest and shoes. real learning. We are not trying to raise people who can fill in a bubble, we want DECA FROM PAGE 10 Referral Rewards Program to raise people who can think.” The reduction of these tests will Refer a friend and receive opportunity. Ward wanted to get 10% off your rental! also teach more real-world skills that students involved and he wants to help students require before college, as more them strive for success. The more referrals the more you save! time is taken out of basic curriculum “I saw how good the club educated for each test. KPS school board the students and helped them member Ken Greschak commented, “If academically,” said Ward. we have more time in the classroom, The students meet once a week there will be more time for learning.” and they talk about ways to fundraise Teachers, administrators and and how to prepare for the final Libins school employees are not the only ones competition. The tux shop at Libins 1028 E. with this point of view; in fact, many Some Loy Norrix students students feel the same way, wishing participated in the State Deca meet Cork St they had more practical knowledge that was held in Detroit on March 12th. 269-381-0746 before college, including senior Joanna There were three thousand students Yiu. who came from around the state. “[Testing is] all that the schools Loy Norrix students won three The look you want at teach to, we don’t learn functional, medals, Tori Zehner who competed in real things,” said Yiu. “I really think Principles of Business Management, the price you will love! [reducing testing] would allow more received two medals, one for overall well-rounded students [who] could performance and a gold medal for take more extracurriculars. Overall we top role play in her category. Chris would have smarter students.” Hybels who competed in Sports and Choose from over 70 With the change of testing policy Entertainment Marketing also received tuxedo styles and 170 vest from NCLB to ESEA, there is hope for a gold medal for top role play in his and tie combinations! the student bored of filling in bubbles, category. the teacher frustrated with teaching test prep, and the district employee

OBAMA FROM PAGE 3 law, and though the website was a As of 2016 the biggest thing Pringle continued, “Obama’s Obama gave an address at the mess, the underlying law was sound. on President Obama’s agenda is background is in constitutional law and White House on January 5, during Recently, however, many have begun gun violence. Since the shooting as someone who has studied and has which he spoke of his plans to create to debate whether or not Obamacare at Newtown in 2013, Obama has taught constitutional law, he knows tighter restrictions on gun ownership. deserves all the hate thrown it’s way. been working to remove the easy how to create laws that don’t violate the “Yes, it will be hard, and it won’t “I think the American people are accessibility of guns. constitution.” happen overnight. It won’t happen afraid of change and the fact that the “My biggest frustration so far is during this Congress. It won’t happen status quo has run the country for so the fact that this society has not been during my presidency. But a lot of long, they were irritated that someone willing to take some basic steps to “My biggest things don’t happen overnight. A that they believed shouldn’t have been keep guns out of the hands of people frustration so far woman’s right to vote didn’t happen president was able to come in and who can do just unbelievable damage,” overnight. The liberation of African shake things up,” said Pringle. said Obama in a Q&A with the CEO of is the fact that this Americans didn’t happen overnight. President Barack Obama’s second Tumblr. society has not LGBT rights -- that was decades’ term began on January 20, 2013. Since Unfortunately Obama has worth of work. So just because it’s his return to the oval office, he has led struggled to make any headway against been willing to hard, that’s no excuse not to try,” the United States into a new deal with gun violence. Instead of becoming a take some basic said Obama during an address given Iran regarding their nuclear program. reality, gun restriction has become at the White House shortly after the Before the deal, it would have taken one of the biggest partisan debates of steps to keep guns new gun ownership restrictions were Iran two to three months to assemble Obama’s presidency. out of the hands of implemented. a nuclear weapon, now it would take The biggest argument from A president’s final year in office twelve months or more. Obama’s opposition on gun violence is people who can do is often his least successful or least Obama also brought the United that his restrictions on gun ownership just unbelievable active year owing to the fact that most States into accord with 194 other violate the second amendment, the people are focused on the presidential nations that will limit the world’s right to bear arms. damage.” candidates for the upcoming term, but greenhouse gas emissions. “I don’t believe what he is doing -President Obama despite this, it would seem as though On a televised address from the violates the second amendment, and I Obama deserves recognition for what White House, President Obama, who don’t believe that because I believe that regards tackling climate change as the constitution is a living document On January 5, 2016, President a central element of his legacy, said, which means that the constitution Obama unveiled his new strategy to “This agreement sends a powerful changes with the times. I think that curb gun violence in America. His signal that the world is fully committed the people who are angry with Obama proposals focus on new background to a low-carbon future. We’ve shown believe that the constitution is a check requirements that will enhance that the world has both the will and the literal document meant to be read and the effectiveness of the National Instant ability to take on this challenge.” interpreted exactly as it is.” Criminal Background Check System.

FEATURE knightlifenews.com 11 PROM 2016: AN IN-DEPTH LOOK THE REALISTIC COST OF PROM CHRIS’ TOP TEN WAYS TO ASK A GIRL TO PROM

Paul Vallier With prom comes the glitz and the glamour, the one night of the year where students go all out dressing their best. With the glamour comes the cost of what it Chris Hybels takes to prepare for prom night. Each pay their part and here’s what the cost will look like between the two to make the night unforgettable. THE AVERAGE JOE WAY: THE FANTASTIC FRANK WAY: Hair and Makeup: 1. Have your high school marching band play 1. Rent advertising space out on the side of a semi-truck asking your darling’s favorite tune while you stand your beloved to prom. To make it more special, obtain your $40-50 holding a “Prom?” sign. commercial driver’s license (CDL) and drive the semi to her house. Both: 2. Write “Prom?” on athletic equipment 2. Mow down a cornfield so it spells out “Prom?” and then show it that correlates to their sport, such as on a to her on Google Earth. Just watch out for Old Man Bodfish, he Tickets: $50 Each Jewlery: $15-20 softball, and toss it to him or her. doesn’t like kids messing up his crops. Dinner: $50-100 3. Ask for permission from your significant 3. Enroll in an aviation program at Western Michigan University in Dress: $200-500 other’s parents in order to decorate their order to learn how to skywrite “Prom?” for your potential date. room with “Prom?” written everywhere. 4. Have President Barack Obama sign an executive order that has 4. Spell out “Prom?” with Chicken McNuggets. your date legally bound to go to the prom with you. We all Boutonniere: $25 It is cheap and also very delicious. know this wouldn’t be the first executive order of the Obama Corrsage: $30 Administration. Just ask nicely, what’s the worst that can Shoes: $20-50 5. happen? 5. Rearrange the stars to spell out “Prom?” Just make sure you don’t Tuxedo: $100-300 interfere with the International Space Station. NASA is a little picky when it comes to the space station for some reason. Paul Vallier Haircut: $15-20

Photo Credit / Chris Hybels Promposal: $10-15 Photo Credit / Chris Hybels Christian Heintzelman Lashenik Webb Photo Credit / Mark Bugnaski / mlive.com A FAIRY-TALE PROM WITHOUT GOING BANKRUPT stores include J-Bird Vintage, Goodwill, around town that you could take your Caitlin Commissaris Plato’s Closet and Second Impressions. date to without spending too much. You Prom is a night that upperclassmen Nobody’s going to know how much you could go to Applebee’s, Bilbo’s or even have dreamt of since they were children. spent on the dress but you. Old Burdick’s. It is the one evening that they get to The Tux: Gentlemen, it is your time Transportation: You don’t need a live out their own personal fairy-tale. to impress! There are many places limo to get to the prom. Why spend all Everything is planned out to perfection. available that offer tuxedo rentals. You the extra money when you could just There are some individuals who can also purchase one for cheap at a drive yourself? If you don’t have a car like to go all out on prom, spending secondhand store or even Goodwill. then carpooling with friends is always a hundreds of dollars on the significant “I got my tux from Goodwill; fun option! evening. Overpriced dresses are function over fashion,” said senior There are ways to minimize the purchased, limos are rented and fancy Ethan Leverton. costs of prom from all aspects. You dinners are eaten. However, going to Food: Many couples go out for a do not need to have an abundance of prom doesn’t have to mean burning fancy, sit-down meal before dancing the cash to enjoy your prom. You can get a hole in your wallet. There are many night away. Although, if you are trying your formal wear for a decent price ways to go to prom in style on a budget. to save money there are other options. at a secondhand store and still look The Dress: The prom dress is a very Making a delicious home-cooked meal amazing. No one is going to know where important aspect of the night. Girls may even be more romantic and much you bought it or how much you spent, always imagine prom as the night they less costly. but they will see you and know how are the princesses. However, you do Set up candles around the table much fun you are having! Remember not need to spend over $100 on a dress or even go to a park for a nice picnic! it is the memories that count. With to look like royalty. There are many The extra work and thought you put all these aspects being brought into Alex Lutz asked Kate Puca to prom over the morning announcements. Puca secondhand stores that you can go to into this will please your date and less consideration, your night will be replied with an excited yes. A sweet and unforgettable and your bank account and you might just find a hidden gem money comes out of your pocket. There memorable promposal. Photo Credit / that suits you perfectly. Some of these are also nice, inexpensive restaurants won’t be annihilated. Caitlin Commissaris Illustration / Taylor Krupianik 12 FEATURE knightlifenews.com 13 teens struggling with attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder her mind for quite some time. could be other excuses that the “[...] At first my parents and child, or the child’s parents, hide brother treated me a little bit behind. The child could be quiet differently, but they realized that and well-behaved but struggling to I wasn’t really that different than stay focused on the teacher giving I was before. Just now they knew a lecture, like Grado. Conversely how to help me,” said Grado. “It the child could be loud, like any did change the way I thought about disruptive teenager, but really my life for the first few weeks, but unable to stay on one topic at a slowly I realized it wasn’t that bad.” time. There are two forms of Grado went to her father to treatment: medication or therapy. ask him about his concerns on the Medication can come from the issue of the disorder. family doctor or referred from a Tony Grado said to his specialist. Therapy is more based daughter, “I think they over around helping with the child’s diagnose. If you have an issue, behavior. Doctors often find that we’re more than happy to help doing both medication and therapy you get help. We’ll help you get at the same time is very helpful. medication, but you have to be Junior Kierra Grado working on her John Collins writing portfolio in Grado takes medication every willing to get help for yourself Honors English 11 A, trying her best to focus on the task at hand. morning. However, last summer too. I think it’s more of a maturity Photo Credit / Dagnija Tomsons her doctor decided she didn’t need thing [...]. Bottom line is, you can DagnijaTomsons ADD is when the child is to take them, since she wasn’t doing get help if you are willing to.” Junior Kierra Grado struggles to ‘spacey’ and not paying attention, any school work. Once the disorder is diagnosed, focus as she stares down at a math much like Predominantly “I would just like people to it’s best to see a specialist for ideas problem right under her pencil. For Inattentive, but slightly different. know that not everyone who has on how to improve the child’s about a year and a half, she’s been Grado didn’t understand what this ADHD has the same level of it. life, like with Grado. Her parents struggling with Attention Deficit- would mean until she realized she There are people who have it really support her, and this makes her Hyperactivity Disorder, or, as it’s would have to adapt her life around bad and others, like me, who don’t feel much more confident than in more commonly known, ADHD. this kind of problem at the age of have it as bad,” said Grado. the beginning when she and her She taps her pencil multiple times fourteen. It’s hard for people to even see family went into this blind. and looks up to talk with a friend, “My first reaction after I that a child has ADHD, since there completely forgetting about the found out was just shock. I wasn’t worksheet stationed on the desk. prepared for it. I didn’t want to People who have ADHD are have it and wanted to find a way either born with it as a result of to get rid of it. At the time I didn’t mothers who were smoking or really understand that it was drinking during pregnancy, birth something you were born with and complications or very low birth something you couldn’t get rid of. I weight. While other people get didn’t want people to know because exposed to it over their lifetime I didn’t want to feel labeled,” said by exposure to lead or other toxic Grado. substances, extreme neglect, abuse She didn’t realize she had this or social deprivation. It’s a common disorder until her parents began thing for children to have, especially mentioning little changes in her as the disease grows into the attitude and the way she went about teenage and even the adult years. her daily life. There are three different types “My parents were the ones to of the disorder: Predominantly notice that I was showing some of Inattentive Presentation which the symptoms of ADHD. My step- is where the child is distracted mom had read books on it, at first easily and can forget things. out of curiosity and then to be able Predominantly Hyperactive- to understand how to raise a child Impulsive Presentation is where the with it. My step-mom was the one child is quite fidgety and talks a lot. to suggest that I get tested for it,” The last is Combined Presentation, said Grado. “It took a long time which is a combination of both, for them to notice though because where the child is fidgety and most of the time children with distracted easily. ADHD get very frustrated with their Grado was born with Combined assignments and tend to throw fits Presentation, being both distracted over things, but I was doing that and fidgety. on a daily basis. They thought it “I specifically have ADHD was only because my parents had Inattentive, which means that just gotten divorced and that I was I’m more prone to not focus than upset about that which kind of I am to be hyperactive. I can’t masked the ADHD problems.” be classified as Attention Deficit Surprisingly, life didn’t change Disorder (ADD) because I have as drastically for Grado as she had almost half of the symptoms of originally thought. It was more ADHD,” said Grado. subtle and barely even registered in

14 knightlifenews.com FEATURE FEMINISM FROM PAGE 7 health and even gender. The difference are open to conversations about sights on expanding, and they are Building an understanding and between feminism and intersectional personal and worldly issues, and it is making serious progress. The IFC a sense of mutual respect is essential feminism is that intersectional comfortable. There is no pressure to plans on volunteering at the YWCA, to the basics of feminism, and that is feminism looks at issues that the speak or anything, you can just come formally known as the Young Women’s what the IFC is focused on here in Loy feminist movement has not looked at and listen,” said Dunklin. Christian Association. Just like Norrix. before in-depth. “The fact that boys are included feminism, the YWCA has done a lot The IFC is always looking for new Issues like the fact that white in the club is very important to its to try to re-brand itself in the past few members, and is a friendly community women make more money than black functionality because it shows that years, when they changed their name that absolutely anyone can fit into. The or hispanic women, or that there are a anyone can be a feminist,” said junior from the Young Women’s Christian IFC meets every Tuesday from 2:30 to number of incidents in which minority Emma Greschak. Association to just simply the YWCA 3:30 in Ms. Layton’s room, K-12. women are victims of police brutality Before intersectional feminism USA, Inc. in December of 2015. They (see Sandra Bland). These ideas gained popularity, men felt as if no longer only cater to young christian started to gain traction with third wave they were being excluded from the women, but every single woman that feminism, but Intersectional Feminism conversation. This is a problem, wants help or a place to stay. The IFC has really taken the groundwork, because no one can achieve equality plans on donating things that the and transformed it into a legitimate with only one side cooperating. YWCA runs out of a lot, like pads, movement, almost worthy of the title Unfortunately, the IFC has experienced tampons and other necessities. “Fourth-Wave Feminism.” a bit of a backlash for starting the club. “We are gonna put body positivity Another thing that makes this “A few particular males came to the posters all over the school, get on club progressive is their inclusion of first meeting and tried to get us riled the morning announcements and male members. The important thing up by asking very pointed questions, overall become more involved with the to remember with intersectionality is and some posters for the club were community in general,” said Greshack. that the movement does not only have torn down in both the boys and girls The IFC is trying to create a place to include females. Contrary to popular bathrooms,” said Preussel. that is not only safe for everyone who belief, there in fact are men out there Despite these backlashes, the IFC is attends, girl or boy, but something that that acknowledge that women are still going strong. Loy Norrix can be proud of. definitely less empowered in society “The first few meetings have been “It looks good for the school, and than men. A good handful of males great, with over thirty people. We brings a positive feeling to Loy Norrix,” have already gotten involved in the might have to find a new place to meet, said Preussel. IFC. One good example is Officer Eric because my classroom might not be It is important to have clubs like Sophomore Naomi Verne is a Dunklin, a security guard here at Loy able to handle the amount of people this one in Loy Norrix. It is a friendly, member of the group. She is Norrix. who are attending,” said Layton. welcoming atmosphere with wonderful leading a discussion on cultural “They are good meetings that The club is already setting their students. appropriation. Photo Credit / Carsten Strand

FEATURE knightlifenews.com 15 KNIGHT LIFE STAFF Audra Penny LETTER GRADES: IT’S TIME TO CONSIDER AN ALTERNATE ASSESSMENT Print Editor-in-Chief Carsten Strand Web Editor-in-Chief Luis Juarez Assistant Web Editor Clayton Barker Opinion Editor Sophia Boismier Layout Editor Cindy Bravo Assistant Layout Editor Jordan Brown GraceMarshall Social Network Manager Caitlin Commissaris A fish and a monkey are Photo Editor presented to a panel of judges. Kendra Curtis The judges are arranged in a Copy Editor half circle around a tree twenty Abigail Farrer Social Network Team feet high. In the center of the half circle, one judge sits in a Jacob Heasley Opinion Editor chair larger than all the rest, he Ruby Hensley is the chief. Feature Editor The chief stands, “In the Chris Hybels interest of fair assessment, Sports Editor we have designed one test for Taylor Krupianik both of you, to be graded by us. Graphics Editor You must climb the tree in the Meghan Lewis Staff center of the clearing.” Zach Liddle The monkey quickly Photo Assistant scrambles up the tree reaching Max Link the top in seconds, but the fish, Staff try as he might, cannot scale Illustration/Taylor Krupianik Jonathan Lo the tree. With all the emphasis humanities teacher at Kazoo in terms of academics but also Chief Copy Editor “Because the monkey can placed on grades, students School, a local, independent, in their behavior and maturity. Arya Malmgren climb the tree, he shall receive are more likely to cheat in private school that chooses not “Replacing letter and Feature Editor an ‘A’,” says the chief, “but the order to achieve higher grades to use grades. number grades with narrative Grace Marshall News Editor fish cannot, so he has failed because good grades will Bradford and many others assessments or conferences, Alexis Martin and will receive an ‘F’.” lead to a successful future. believe in the importance of qualitative summaries of Arts and Entertainment Editor Albert Einstein once said, Unfortunately, these ideals intrinsic motivation--a concept student progress offered Zach Mason “Everybody is a genius, but if promote a fear of failure in that recognizes people learn in writing or as part of a Chief Copy Editor you judge a fish by its ability students. and work more successfully if conversation, is not a utopian Genevieve Nicolow to climb a tree then it will live Former Loy Norrix they are self-driven by their fantasy. It has already been Staff its whole life believing it is English teacher, Rob Bradford, own interests and not forced done successfully in many Maxwell Offerman stupid.” knows all about student fear of to learn things because they elementary and middle schools Feature Editor A monkey and the fish failure and said, “That’s why should. and even in some high schools, Cutter Olmsted Social Network Team are very different in their kids cheat because as long as “If you can actively instill both public and private,” said Johnnie Palone abilities; students are the the grade is the number one that perspective [of intrinsic Alfie Kohn in his article, “The Staff same. Grades provide a way reward, then a kid will do motivation] in a child early Case Against Grades.” Kohn Mitchell Rockwell to assess students, but they anything to make sure they on then the grading at a high is a well-known author and Asst. Graphics Editor don’t account for the fact that have that A, whether that school level doesn’t matter public speaker on human Makenna Sandt students have a different way means plagiarize, whether because they’re learning to behavior and children’s Asst. Business Manager of learning and thinking. In that means copy off another learn,” said Corey O’Bryan, an education. Frankie Stevens order to create a more level student, whether that means algebra and geometry teacher Unfortunately, not many Business Manager playing field, grades should be quickly throw together a at Loy Norrix. students have the means Dagnija Tomsons Copy Editor removed from the modern day crappy assignment last At Kazoo School, teachers or opportunity to attend a Paul Vallier school system. minute. They’ll do whatever assess a student based on their school like Kazoo, due to the Sports Editor In modern education, they have to to get that A as social-emotional and academic expensive tuition of private Rachel Zook the idea is that good grades opposed to actually taking growth in progress reports. schools. This is why it is so Copy Editor lead to admission into a the time and taking the effort Progress reports are short important to implement Tisha Pankop good college which then to actually learn the subject essays written by the teachers alternate methods in public Advisor leads to a successful career material and get better at it.” about each individual student. schools. If students can’t that ultimately leads to a Bradford is currently This gives parents a better idea come to schools that are small comfortable life. working as a middle school of their child’s growth, not only SEE GRADES PAGE 18

What can be done [We need to] have [We need] a more to help solve the better security and efficient means of problem of illegal more ways to check immigration. immigration? peoples’ validity for residency in the U.S.

KKNIGHTSS SPEAK Junior Erika Wagoner Sophomore Justin Page 16 knightlifenews.com OPINION ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION: AN UNKNOWN KEY ROLE IN SOCIETY

and increased income from the same how old they are, how they are related immigrants that most people want out. to other people in their household, Most people would like to believe what kinds of jobs they have, what that the 11 million was calculated kinds of income and whether they are PUBLICATION POLICY to the most accurate it could have getting government benefits, among PUBLICATION POLICY possibly been, at least, according to other factors.” Got an opinion? Disagree with VanessaRodriguez something we’ve said? Just want to Pew Research. What if that “11 million” Apparently, if someone has a be in the paper? Write us! When people think of illegal wasn’t really 11 million? Reading how questionable job and are receiving immigrants, they think of a bad Pew Research came to that number, government benefits, they just might Direct Lettitors to: guy. It may be the word “illegal” “the initial calculation that [they] have be an undocumented immigrant. That Loy Norrix Knight Life estimated on how many unauthorized said, anyone can be likely ruled as 606 E Kilgore or “immigrants” that gives off a Kalamazoo, MI 49001 questionable feeling, but what if immigrants are in the survey, or “undocumented” or “illegal” if they the word “illegal” was replaced census, not the total in number in the answer the survey in a way they deem OR with “undocumented”? Are the country.” This number is merely an questionable. Submit to Room K6 thoughts different or still the same? estimation. People also have to assume that What must be understood is that there are some that did not take the OR Take it a step further and replace pankoptl@kalamazoopublicschools. “undocumented immigrants” with the U.S. census conducts research survey at all. How are they accounted net “citizens.” annually based on regional data. The for? How does Pew Research factor Undocumented immigrants have in this lost data? Pew Research GUIDELINES: the potential to become the ideal makes up for this by “making upward • 250 words or less adjustments to our estimates for the • Must contain author’s name, citizen. So, instead of talking about the Immigration can 3rd period & ID number under count that fall in the range of words, how about talking about the “increase US gross people behind “illegal immigrants?” 10% to 15%.” What are the benefits Americans have domestic product (GDP) In other words, make even more RIGHT TO WITHHOLD: that are granted by illegal immigrants? estimations and adjustments to their Guest columns and personal opinion [...] by an additional $1.4 already flawed data. Plainly stated, pieces may be withheld if the piece What common misconceptions do most contains libel or obscenities, disrupts people have? trillion over 10 years” there is no way to get the number for the school environment, invades It is known that most people those who did not take it unless it’s the privacy of others, or if space is will not take a risk on starting a new made up. limited. business due to the fact that it might entire U.S. population is not calculated People want a better life, that is a until the top of the decade. This given, and they try their best to make not launch, and who wants to spend NOTE TO READER: money on a possibility? As stated in estimation is not complete data and it. Reality can prove that to be much Any photography that has been The Bloomberg Report, “immigrants cannot be used to represent that 11 harder than anticipated, for native manipulated will be labeled as a are 30% more likely to start new million number. and foreign born alike. However, “photo illustration.” businesses.” So in other words, In addition, it can be noted that many Americans want to blame those the data coming from the U.S. census hardships on immigrants, illegal or not. Knight Life will publish a formal immigrants are willing to go for a risk correction of any factual error made most Americans won’t, creating new depends on the honor system of Many Americans want to believe in a previous issue. jobs along the way. The amount of responses. In other words, they are that those coming into the country are these new jobs can add up to 203,000 depending on the general population nothing but trouble. Yet immigrants per year. to tell the truth about the number have the possibility to improve the US NEED MORE KNIGHT LIFE? of people living in the household. economy, make new job opportunities, Check out the independent voice of What’s better than more jobs? The LNHS at: amount of income from immigration This invites several logical flaws and and increase personal incomes. knightlifenews.com supports the economy. Immigration problems in the data. Instead of seeing illegal immigrants can “increase US gross domestic In short, the data will never be as the bad guys, why not look toward product (GDP) [...] by an additional accurate enough to quote as fact. The the good things they could bring? Take $1.4 trillion over 10 years.” This means problem is complicated when we look a moment, a few minutes, to think of that the U.S., as a whole, earns back at how Pew Research attempts to fill the positive effects immigrants have money from immigration. Americans the holes in their logic. Pew Research in the possibility of giving to the US themselves would “earn $791 billion in does their own survey which is in fact and its future. Americans can only ever personal income” over those same 10 culturally bias. grow if they are willing to see past the years. In the Pew Research survey, it “[…] labels and seek the opportunities before In comparison, Americans would sorts immigrants in the survey which them. never earn as much money without are most likely to be unauthorized the support of immigrants. Americans immigrants by looking at where they benefit from more job opportunities were born, when they came into the US,

There should be Make the process better security along We should have a a lot easier. the border and we general regulation Accommodate for should help the on reviewing the difference in economies of the peoples’ Visas. learning standards. bordering countries.

Sophomore Brandon Douglas Junior Na’Quavion Evans Junior Alexander Neal

OPINION knightlifenews.com 17 Xanax: Rise of a Hidden Danger anti-anxiety pill known as Xanax. Valle. influence of a drug that gives them the Xanax is classified as a Central While the use of Xanax does same response as consuming alcohol, Nervous System (CNS) depressant help with severe anxiety and which can have serious or deadly that’s essentially used as a sedative or sleeping problems, there’s a serious consequences. tranquilizer. It’s main purpose is to problem with teenagers abusing this The repercussions of drinking slow brain activity so that it can treat prescription drug. Many who abuse and driving are extreme due to the anxiety, sleep disorders, acute stress the drug only see it as a party drug and huge negative stigma and deadly reactions or panic/anxiety attacks. In don’t understand the consequences of consequences belonging to it. Xanax order to obtain a drug such as Xanax, a it, causing a higher rate of use. doesn’t have the same punishments. KendraCurtis doctor must prescribe it to you under a In fact, earlier this school year in Since it’s only seen as an anti-anxiety In recent years, drug problems diagnosis of anxiety or some form of a October of 2015, a Western Michigan medication that can be prescribed to throughout high schools have become sleep disorder. University freshman was found dead patients, the effects of it are overlooked. a more prevalent issue. According to “At first, it was a new feeling of in her dorm room due to the mixture The fact that driving while under surveys by the National Institute on relief because I wasn’t having the of alcohol and Xanax. For those with the influence of Xanax is almost Drug Abuse (NIDA), the most common symptoms anymore but my feelings prescriptions, doctors prescribe taking the same as driving while under the drugs abused by teens between 8th towards them have changed more and as little as 0.75 milligrams of Xanax influence of alcohol isn’t a highly and 12th grade are marijuana and more,” said Portage Central junior and never recommend more than 2 known fact. Since this fact isn’t highly prescription drugs. Alesondra Valle, a prescribed user. milligrams at a time. Any dosage higher known, people are putting others and Since marijuana is the most Xanax is used to balance and than 2 milligrams can cause overdose themselves in dangerous situations publicized and talked about drug that’s boost a chemical known as gamma- depending on body size and mass. while behind the wheel just as they used and abused throughout high aminobutyric acid (GABA) in your This doesn’t include how easy it is to are when drunk. So, many don’t know schools, it’s become the highlight of brain. If a person doesn’t have the overdose while mixing other drugs or that a prescribed drug can cause just as the debate deciding what is or isn’t unbalance of GABA in their brain and alcohol with Xanax. many deadly accidents as alcohol can. safe for teens. The debate of whether proceeds to take Xanax unprescribed, a Throughout high schools, the The scientific and medical use of or not marijuana should be made legal series of side-effects can occur. This can selling and abuse of prescription drugs, Xanax is to lower anxiety and help due to the possible dangers of it has include dizziness, increased memory specifically Xanax, has become a bigger with sleep deprivation. Yet, teens almost completely covered up the issue loss, a drastic loss in appetite, trouble and easily hidden problem. Xanax have started using it more and more of just how dangerous prescription concentrating, blurred vision and other causes slower reaction times and allows as a party drug despite the extreme drugs are. permanent body damages. an unprescribed user to have similar consequences. There is one prescription drug that “It’s like you just sit there, and you effects as if they were drunk. This can “They’re only like a band-aid, they has become much more popular and can’t really do anything because your put students in dangerous situations, just cover up the problem,” said Valle. has been easy to obtain, specifically, an body doesn’t feel like it’s there,” said such as driving while under the

GRADES FROM PAGE 16 on three levels, basic, proficient and advanced. But Grades encourage students to complete their work on then, we still had those levels translated into letter time. grades,” said O’Bryan. So the question remains, how can public schools Grades are usually based on whether or not find a way to eliminate grades while still retaining a student has turned in their work and their a system of assessment for their students? Not performance on tests and quizzes. A student might to mention, students who wish to attend college understand a subject perfectly, but if they don’t do need to be able to prove their qualifications in their their homework, they will end up with a lower grade. applications. On the other hand, if a student does not understand “I believe that if a student doesn’t receive what what they’re learning about but turns in all of their they deem a high enough grade then they will be homework then they will pass the class without so distracted by their grade that they will miss the actually gaining any knowledge. learning opportunity that comes with a mistake. I “It comes down to the idea of competitiveness, propose, in an ideal world, the teachers don’t give I think that so many times people take a test and grades but instead give suggestions for ways to see, ‘Oh I got a 94 and, oh, that kid got a 92, so I improve their work,” said Loy Norrix English and guess that means I did well,’ when that doesn’t mean Journalism teacher Tisha Pankop. anything because maybe they could have done even Moving away from a letter grade based scale Letter grades are an antiquated method of assessing better,” Bradford continued, “I think that grades are a would be a long and difficult process. However, students. Research has shown that not all students number that put people in a ranking order, and that’s schools can begin to move forward by only using excel in the same areas, and grading should be not where people need to be thinking. They need to be letter grades to determine the scores of students adjusted in order to accommodate all students. thinking about, ‘What did I not know before this unit taking core classes. This way colleges have a way to Photo Illustration / Grace Marshall started, and let me think of all the things that I now rank students’ traditional academic abilities. Electives enough to take into account each individual, then do know’ and I might go from knowing nothing to are a way for students to explore career paths or we must bring that environment to them. This will knowing half of it and technically that would be a fifty pursue a hobby outside of English, Math and Science. not be easy, mainly because Kazoo School has one percent and I’d get an F but I grew so much. Where Electives are usually more flexible in their curriculum hundred students total (preschool to eighth grade) another kid walked in knowing most of it and grows and can survive without the rigid standards brought creating a one to five teacher to student ratio, from being a quote un-quote 85 to a 91, but there was on by grades. It is not a huge step, but it can make a comparatively, Loy Norrix has a 1 to 130 teacher to no growth there.” world of difference in the way education influences student ratio. With so many students per teacher, Despite the negative aspects of grades, some students’ futures. Loy Norrix teachers don’t have enough time to upsides do exist. Grades provide a form of assessment individually assess each student; however, Loy for colleges and employers to use on all students. Norrix has implemented alternative grading scales in Grades also teach students to hit deadlines. the past. Sometimes it is necessary to do unpleasant work to “We used to have what they call standard based succeed. Similarly, in school there are assignments grading, and all of our tests and quizzes were graded that are required to be completed to pass the class. 18 knightlifenews.com OPINION The DARK Act: Denying Americans the Right to Know passed. In terms of allergenicity, GMO’s have been known to have had a hand in the allergy epidemic. Robyn O’Brien, who published the book “The Unhealthy Truth” in 2009 has found some alarming facts. According to her book, the year genetically modified soy was released in the United Kingdom, ClaytonBarker soy allergies raised 50 percent. Researchers have also found that soy’s Over 60 countries have restrictions trypsin inhibitor, which is what’s found and 26 countries ban GMO’s, so many to cause many allergic reactions in soy, wonder why the USA isn’t in this has been found to be 27 percent higher conversation. GMO, which stands in genetically modified soy. for Genetically Modified Organism, Photo Illustration / Jake Link Many might argue “I don’t eat is mainly found in food products. soy.” Soy is in almost everything and According to many polls, over 90 resides in deserts. Putting the scorpion comparable food; and in almost all of fast food. Soy is also in percent of Americans want their food gene into cabbage protects it from a “(B) the disclosure of such material 75 percent of foods in supermarkets labeled indicating whether or not it has caterpillar that eats the cabbage. The difference is necessary to protect public and 91 percent of this soy is genetically been genetically modified. scorpion toxin will be continually health and safety or to prevent the label modified. So if we know genetically The Safe and Accurate Food released killing any caterpillar. or labeling of the food so produced modified soy does in fact have Labeling act (H.R. 1599) has recently Scientist’s claim that this toxin has from being false or misleading in any increment on soy allergies, with a caused dispute among Americans been modified and cannot harm particular.” country that is going through an allergy and government officials. This bill humans. Let’s hope this to be true. Thus labeling will be required epidemic, one begins to wonder. doesn’t sound that bad at first, who Considering the cabbage as actual for genetically modified food if they While the argument is still doesn’t want to eat safe food and have food is okay, but to take the next step can determine that is, is different scientifically up in the air on whether or it labeled accurately? Many Americans and eat this frankenfood is extensive. nutritionally or allergenically from food not GMOs increase food allergies on a and government officials oppose this It’s faulty to eat this food because of that isn’t genetically modified. mass level, there is proof they can raise bill though and have renamed it the the surrounding controversies with allergies explicitly. Sadly as a food eater DARK act, which stands for Deny certain GMO foods. Many GMO’s have Food allergies in the and writer, it’s very difficult to find Americans the Right to Know, hinting been planted with lies around them. United States have sources and studies of any kind that at the real intentions of this bill. Although some scientists (many also prove or disprove the idea of GMO’s The DARK act found on Congress. say it’s bad for human consumption) raised 50 percent overall causing a widespread allergy epidemic. Gov states why H.R. 1599 would be so say this food is safe to eat, changing since 1997 to 2011. This is mainly because there aren’t dangerous if put into law. “The FDA up the human genome on a whim, for many studies done that have been peer may require a GMO food to have a label beneficial profits seems rather absurd Coincidentally GMO’s reviewed and hold credibility without that informs consumers of a material and dangerous as we truly cannot know became prevalent in conflict of interest. difference between the GMO food and GMO’s can affect the human genome in Food allergies in the United States a comparable food if the disclosure hundreds of years. 1996. have raised 50 percent overall since is necessary to protect public health Read here is the DARK act from “For these reasons, the DARK 1997 to 2011. Coincidentally GMO’s and safety or to prevent the label from congress.gov. act cannot be passed. It is no secret became prevalent in 1996. To try to being false or misleading. The use of “(b) Determination Of Material that genetically modified foods are push the DARK act through America’s a GMO does not, by itself, constitute a Difference Between Food From nutritionally and allergenically legal system saying GMO’s don’t material difference.” Genetically Engineered Plants And different. increase food allergies at this point is The DARK act goes on stating Comparable Foods.— For example, golden rice is controversial. Not having conducted GMO labeling is only relevant if there “(1) IN GENERAL.—For genetically modified. Golden rice, proper studies on GMO’s and is a material difference in GMO’s in purposes of subsection (a), the use although not on the food market yet allergenicity, stating GMO’s have not comparison to conventional crops (not of genetic engineering does not, by is undergoing trials as the pro-GMO had an effect on the allergy epidemic genetically modified). Later stating that itself, constitute information that is community has hopes in finding it sounds more like opinion, rather than “The use of a GMO does not, by itself, material for purposes of determining safe, efficacious and viable for human fact. constitute a material difference.” whether there is a difference between consumption. This select GMO golden Regarding the Safe and Accurate This DARK act firmly states that a food produced from, containing or rice, is selectively modified and Labeling Act, better known by its GMO’s are no different than regular consisting of a genetically engineered enhanced to have more vitamin A in it. opponents as the DARK Act which crops, suggesting that it is reasonable plant and a comparable food. One cannot argue that this ‘golden stands for “Deny Americans the Right to label GMO’s as natural food. “(2) LABELING REQUIRED.—The rice’ isn’t nutritionally different than to Know” is a disgrace to this country. Genetically modified food in no way is Secretary may require that the labeling any conventionally grown rice. Having To see a bill which is an oxymoron natural, you’d be hard pressed to find of a food produced from, containing or been enhanced with vitamin A, if this within itself trying to make its way a genetically modified food growing consisting of a genetically engineered GMO makes it on the market it will through the government is very by itself, unless a farmer planted a plant contain a statement to adequately need to be labeled (so why would pathetic. If this bill does get passed, genetically modified seed. GMO’s aren’t inform consumers of a difference someone even write the DARK act, it will show just how corrupt the natural and would have never been between the food so produced and considering golden rice’s main intent government has become with corporate found originally in nature before they its comparable food if the Secretary is to be nutritionally different to help interest, indubitable strengthening the became mass produced. determines that— third world countries with vitamin A pro-GMO community. You tell me if this certain GMO “(A) there is a material difference disorders.), But that isn’t the purpose sounds natural to you, GMO cabbage, in the functional, nutritional or of this bill. The DARK act has been which isn’t on the market yet, contains compositional characteristics, proposed to help out the pro-GMO genes from a scorpion in it. Yes, I allergenicity or other attributes community and potentially harm the said scorpion, the scaly animal that between the food so produced and its conventional and organic community if

OPINION knightlifenews.com 19 LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Dear Editor, Dear Editor, everyone on the team was mad, but coach said before In “Where do They Stand?” by Nora Hilgart-Griff, I read your article, “Flint Water Crisis: going out to the event to “change our moods because Mr. Wright said, “Ted Cruz wants a libertarian society Thousands Devastated By Lead Contaminated some of the military people have went to war, they with limited government.” Water,” and it caught my attention to many things. I have seen friends die, they’ve had to shoot people, This is simply not true. Ted Cruz opposes same- liked how you stated actual facts on what’s been going losing by 1 point is nothing compared to that.” We sex marriage, a key point in the libertarian rhetoric on with the Flint Water situation. It helps inform me played our hearts out not only for a conference of maximized freedom. He also opposes legalization on what’s actually been going on. I have family that championship, but also for the veterans and active of marijuana. What limited government wants to stays there and I had no idea on how much it could members. They said even though we lost, they dictate how you live your life? The government is a affect their state of health. I wanted to thank you for appreciated the way we played. protector, not a parent. Ted Cruz also supports mass addressing the problem. I never looked that close Senior, Timothy Whittaker surveillance. That’s hardly a libertarian position. Ted into the issue because I didn’t think it was a serious Cruz may support a more open economy and gun thing. With the information that you provided, it Dear Editor, rights, but he is not in favor of a more libertarian allowed me to see the crisis in a different perspective. I read “LGBT Community Still Feels Oppression society. Flint is, and has been, crying out for help for a while in TV Shows” and I still can’t believe that parents Senior, Connor Peterman and our government is ignoring it. I thought that think that a TV show is going to “make their kids the government had everything under control, but gay.” “Steven Universe” is one of my favorite shows Dear Editor, I can see now that they’re neglecting the situation and I’ve always admired how it supports the LGBT I liked the article “Sexual Harassment in School completely. Learning this makes me pretty upset and community. Homosexuality has always been around Has Come to be Expected.” I really agree with what I wish that they would do something about it quick even in different species, so this isn’t some new thing. is said in the article. I thought the quote, “Sexual because they don’t see how much of a negative effect For thousands of years, people had to hide who they harassment is basically stuff that you shouldn’t say to it is on innocent people. You put the article together were and with all this new knowledge and freedom, your mother” gave a broad example of what kind of really great and I like how you received opinions from homosexuality is still treated like a sickness someone stuff is being said. Fear of sexual harassment is why others on the issue. could catch. I know who I am and my peers know who girls mostly feel so uncomfortable when having to Senior, Jazemine Hairston they are. People who are homosexual, heterosexual walk in front of a group of boys. Sexual harassment or something else, were born that way and this kind can happen to any gender, men and women, and it Dear Editor, of oppression is telling them to hide who they are. It makes people get an uneasy feeling about normal I think overall it was a great day. Coach Covault took too long to gain equal treatment for women and things such as walking to class or shopping for did a great job getting the event up and the article African Americans, and they still don’t get the respect groceries. [“Loy Norrix Men’s Basketball Honors Veterans they deserve. The time it’s taking for ignorant people Young girls that can’t even wrap their heads In Military Appreciation Game” by Paul Vallier] is to grasp the concept that they can’t tell anyone else around sexual harassment, who are still playing good. It is always great when anyone can recognize what to do is insane. If there is a God, why would he Barbies, living in a fairytale, shouldn’t have to deal someone who has served for our country, so this day want this? with how sexual harassment is becoming a normality. felt good. Meeting all the military people, talking to Freshman, Zoe Brown No one should. them was really nice. Sophomore, Isabel Deary After we lost the game by a buzzer-beater CHAMPS TREATS HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS LIKE PRESCHOOLERS it, and students don’t either. [CHAMPs] feel like they’re little kids who still looking for a way to ensure learning.” it’s used a lot in elementary and middle need help learning how to do public If we’re going to implement schools, and as 14-18 year olds, we schooling, even though they don’t. CHAMPs, teachers should only use should be able to handle ourselves You’re sitting down in your chair, the CHAMPs in specific class hours where without that system.” students are doing their work, paying students can’t seem to get it together. I Swafford makes a good point, we attention, being good listeners and then also believe CHAMPs was meant for the need to steer away from a program that your teacher is just saying CHAMPS, new incoming teachers who need some diminishes the meaning of a “college- conversation level zero unnecessarily. form of structure or system that can LuisJuarez going culture,” as stated in the student We get it, we don’t need to be told help them with the learning process Conversation, Help, Activity, handbook. You don’t see colleges using at all how to behave, we’re not little between themselves and the students. Movement and Participation are the CHAMPs, so why implement it in high kids. The majority of high schoolers CHAMPs should be optional. foundation of the acronym CHAMPs, school? Students should be able to can be motivated and they know how If staff and students can agree that a method of classroom management behave as young adults and be treated to engage in tasks as long as there CHAMPs isn’t meant for everybody, used by teachers. This is an acronym of as such. are instructions going along with the then why enforce it upon experienced a program used in elementary schools According to dailyteachingtools. specific task. teachers, Advanced Placement that regulates what small children can com, “The overall goal of the CHAMPs Though some may say CHAMPs and Honors classes? When instead and cannot do. This same program is classroom management system is to is necessary because all high school CHAMPs could be implemented and being used here at Loy Norrix High develop an instructional structure students don’t know how to behave or enforced for those new teachers and School. in which students are responsible, have a sense of self-control, that isn’t younger students who actually need it. High school students, like myself, motivated and highly engaged in the entirely true. In fact, most students Also, we should work on what we see CHAMPs as a joke because there is specific task at hand.” know how to behave and they know already have and improve on that. no real use for it. It’s seen as a non- CHAMPs as I see it, is meant that there are consequences for their The new acronym system CSG, which entity where it’s implemented into the more for younger kids who need actions. It’s the consequences of those stands for Commit, Succeed and classroom, but teachers don’t enforce it discipline. They can’t seem to engage few that negatively affects the rest of Graduate, is not only a good example to very much, except for a few. in what’s going on in the class because the student body. keep moving forward, but also a good “I don’t think CHAMPs is effective, their attention spans seem to wander “I think CHAMPS is a great rule system we can build on. especially in high school,” said junior and are likely to be less motivated. strategy for the transition to high Margaret Swafford. “First of all, it’s not CHAMPs in a high school setting is school, for many of our younger [9th implemented in most classrooms. As far a little unsettling since the students grade] students,” said English teacher as I’ve heard, teachers don’t like using feel inferior because it makes them Anne Lewis. “It’s also great for teachers

20 knightlifenews.com OPINION WELCOME TO THE OTHER DANCE MARCH MADNESS TAKES OVER AS TEAMS COMPETE IN THE “BIG DANCE” ZachMason In March, there is a certain event that the whole country goes crazy for: the NCAA basketball tournament. What is known as “March Madness” sweeps across the nation, and this year is no different. As the nation fills out their brackets, 68 teams compete to try and win the national title. It’s win or go home, and with every team’s season on the line, each game is more important than the last.

3/24 3/25

3/27 3/18 3/26

4/2 3/18

3/17 3/17 4/4

3/18 3/26 3/27

3/24 3/25

3/18 3/20 3/19

3/17- FIRST TASTE OF MADNESS: 3/18- BRACKETS GET BUSTED: 3/19- BULLDOGS TEAR APART UTES: The first upset of 2016 came Every year, there is a day where brackets get ripped up. With four The Gonzaga Bulldogs faced the courtesy of the Yale Bulldogs, huge upsets taking place, March 18 was that day in 2016. First, Hawaii three-seeded Utah Utes as an eleven returning to the tournament for dismantled California 77-66. Then, Middle Tennessee shocked the world seed after upsetting Seton Hall 68-52 the first time since 1962. They beat when they knocked off the Michigan State Spartans, who were the co- in the first round. However, they played the Baylor Bears 79-75. Later that favorites with Kansas to win the whole tournament. Middle Tennessee as if the roles were reversed, absolutely day, Arkansas Little-Rock stunned won 90-81. Stephen F. Austin then beat the West Virginia Mountaineers dismantling Utah 82-59. The Bulldogs Purdue in double-overtime 85-83. 70-56, adding to their upset of VCU in 2014. Northern Iowa capped off prove that they are just as strong as the Wichita State also beat Arizona 65- the crazy bracket-busting day by hitting a half-court buzzer-beater to Gonzaga teams in the past few years, 55, adding to the Shockers’ recent stun the Texas Longhorns 75-72. This marked the first time in NCAA despite a few uncharacteristic slip-ups in success in the NCAA tournament. tournament history that a 13, 14 and 15 seed all won on the same day. the regular season. 3/20- THE IMPOSSIBLE HAPPENS: 3/24 AND 3/25- THINGS HAPPEN “AS PLANNED”: Northern Iowa looked to continue their run in the tournament as In every game in the Sweet 16, the higher-seeded team won. This they faced the Texas A&M Aggies. With a 69-57 lead and only 44 seconds means the South and West regions of the brackets will feature match-ups remaining, it looked like they would do just that. However, the Aggies would between one- and two-seeds in the Elite Eight. In the South region, the go on a historic run and score 10 points in the final 30 seconds to force one-seed Kansas Jayhawks handled the five-seed Maryland Terrapins overtime. Texas A&M would go on the win in double-overtime, 92-88. This 79-63. The Jayhawks will face off against two-seed Villanova, who marked the largest comeback in the final minute of a game in NCAA Division 1 steamrolled three-seed Miami 92-69. In the West region, one-seed history. After this game, Wisconsin knocked off Xavier in the final seconds of Oregon knocked off Duke, the reigning NCAA champs, 82-68. The Ducks the game. Trailing by three with 11.7 seconds left in the game, Bronson Koenig will face off against two-seed Oklahoma, who beat three-seed Texas A&M of Wisconsin hit two three-pointers, one at the buzzer, to send the Badgers to 77-63. In the East region, North Carolina became the first team in history the Sweet Sixteen. to score in the triple-digits as they handled Indiana 101-86. See March Madness page 23 SPORTS knightlifenews.com 21 SAM FTOREK’S RISING CAREER IS CHANGING HIS GAME Six years ago, the Kalamazoo I played as long as I could and then head to the rink. I’d arrive around Wings team welcomed player Sam things worked out that I could stay in 5 p.m. and start getting mentally Ftorek onto the team as a forward, Kalamazoo and jump on board as the prepared for the game. It is a long day, and he then moved up to defensemen. assistant coach.” but can be so much fun.” Ftorek has been playing professional Every hockey player has their own Ftorek has three children who hockey for 17 years. inspirations and role models, whether often stand by the players’ tunnel at the Last June, Ftorek agreed to take it’s an Olympic player or someone close beginning and end of each game period the position of assistant coach, working to home. waiting to see their father come off the with head coach Nick Bootland. With “My father was my role model ice. One can’t help but think that it is his new position as assistant coach, he growing up. He won a silver medal in such a precious sight, watching them will be with the Kalamazoo Wings in the 1972 Olympic games in Sapporo, wait for their father with their mother the players box helping lead the team Japan. He then went on to play in the sitting in the stands and keeping an eye to win their games. National Hockey League (NHL) and on them with the help of the dedicated After working under head coach World Hockey Association (WHA). season attendees. Nick Bootlands guidance, the two have He taught me all about the game and “My best moments as a player were gotten to know each other very well, showed me how much fun you could the last few seasons, being able to see which only strengthens their working have playing, if you put in the hard my kids standing by the door when relationship. work behind the scenes,” said Ftorek. I was stepping on and off the ice.” Ftorek said, “I believe working However, just having an interest in Ftorek continued, “They kept things in with Nick [Bootland] as the assistant playing simply isn’t enough. As Ftorek’s perspective when things were not going Sam Ftorek watching the game from coach, we will continue to make a great father said, you have to put in hard the way that I may not have wanted. the player’s box. Behind him are two tandem. We get along really well, love work. That means long practice hours They were always happy to see me, win members of the Kalamazoo Wings hockey and desire the best from and or coming home late from an evening or lose, and ready to give me a healing team. Photo Credit / John Gilroy for our players. It will be different game (these can span from three to hug on the bad nights. Hopefully AlexisMartin looking down the bench to him, not four hours, often continuing until ten giving them great memories of family The Kalamazoo Wings hockey over my shoulder, but we will continue or eleven at night). time at the rink were my happiest team has been playing hockey since to have a great working relationship.” “As a player, game days were full of moments.” 1974 at Wings Event Center, previously Working his way up the little things that we did to get ready for As of March 8, 2016, the teams known as Wings Stadium. The team ladder, from playing forward up to a 7:30 p.m. start of work. We would be season standings are at 26 wins and 25 has come a long way since then. In defensemen, after 17 years he finally at the rink at 9 a.m. and on the ice at 10 losses out of a total of 51 games. There the past five years, they have had over got the coaching position that he has a.m. for a quick practice. After practice, are currently 15 games scheduled, five 20 thousand people in attendance wanted. stretch, cool down and head home. of them scheduled to play at the Wings (each season spanning between two “I told my wife when we first met I would have a snack, hang with the Event Center for the rest of the 2015- and three thousand in attendance). In that I was going to play hockey for kids and then take a nap. Wake up at 2016 game season throughout the rest 2006, while the team was a part of the a living. She asked what I was going 3:30 p.m., eat a bowl of pasta,” Ftorek of March and beginning of April. UHL (United Hockey League), they to do after that, and I told her I was continued, “[I would] get dressed in a won the Colonial Cup. going to be a coach,” said Ftorek. “So suit, have a big bowl of ice cream and LOY NORRIX SOFTBALL COMMITS THEIR OUTFEILD TO THE NEXT LEVEL PaulVallier Three commitments, over a .400 stepped down to a manager position. batting average, and genuinely feared A true combination of threat is in the SMAC conference, those are just what these three players bring to a few ways to define the Lady Knights the Loy Norrix softball team. Harris outfield of Loy Norrix. Made up of with the power, Greer with speed and senior Megan Lohner, senior Keisha Lohner with contact and consistency. Harris and senior Maia Greer. Lohner “Kiesha hits the ball like a hammer. is committed to the University of Her hands, when she hits, are the Michigan Dearborn, Harris to Olivet fastest I’ve ever seen. Megan is a true College and Greer to Olivet College. triple threat. Whatever you try, she will The three Loy Norrix outfielders get on base, and when you see [Maia] have played with or against each other run the bases, you’re not surprised since the age of nine. Between the three college coaches take notice,” said of them, Harris, Greer and Lohner, Lohner. have all played four years of varsity The three commits came together and have carried over a .400 batting and scored over forty percent of Loy average. They are rumored to be Norrix’s runs last season and plan to “feared” by most coaches in the area. lead the team to another successful “We are confident we will field season in their last chance as high the best outfield in West Michigan, school softball players. The three Loy Norrix outfielders run out to their positions in a game last spring. maybe the state. No matter where our Many college coaches have had their eye on each of the three lady Knights. From competition hits the ball, there will Left to Right: #23 Keisha Harris, #4 Megan Lohner, #7 Maia Greer. Photo Credit / be a very good outfielder on it fast. Kristi Johnson These girls are lightning, waiting to be unleashed,” said Ray Lohner, who has been the varsity softball coach for the past two seasons, and has just recently

22 knightlifenews.com SPORTS ABBY WAMBACH RETIRES, INSPIRES YOUNG ATHLETES perfectly into society. one. “Wambach not only encourages “She inspires girls to get up and young girls to become great soccer play soccer. People don’t realize that players, but she also shows them how girls are good at it,” said sophomore to become better women,” said Loy Kenzie Fox, “They think it's a man’s Norrix junior varsity soccer coach, sport.” Corey O’Bryan. Wambach has shown that there Not all role models, however, are are no true stereotypes in the game. always perfect. With Wambach’s recent Her image does not fit the stereotypical arrest on April 3, 2016 for driving women with long brown or blonde hair, under the influence of intoxicants, that women don’t really know how shows that even role models have to to play or they are not tough enough own up to mistakes. Wambach has to play the game. She may not have issued an apology to her friends, family looked the part, but she did play the and fans. part. No matter what, she gets her point Abby Wambach on June 21, 2013, the day that she broke Mia Hamm’s record During the 2008 Olympics, across and makes her voice heard. for most goals scored. Wambach retired as the top goal scorer in the world with Wambach had to watch her team while "I use my voice because I know that 184 international goals. Photo Credit / Onward State she sat on the sidelines. With a broken when you're the youngest at a dinner Abby Farrer leg and a head injury, all she could do table, the loudest person usually gets It was a moment that was watched Post graduation, Wambach would was hope for the best. However, the heard. I learned that at a pretty young in silence. The US Women’s soccer attend the University of Florida. As gold medal wasn’t what she was looking age [with seven siblings]," said Abby captain takes her cleats off for the a freshman, she took her university for. Her eye was set on the World Cup. Wambach on Entertainment Sports last time. With a smile and a wave, to win their first and only National In 2011, the US team fell short of the Programing Networks (ESPN) Women. Abby Wambach stepped off the field. Collegiate Athletic Association title with a 3-1 loss in Germany. Wambach has become a role model It’s a day that will go down in history. championship in soccer. Every 4 years, the United States for soccer players around the world, Wambach is a face, voice, and talent In 2002, Wambach was the Women’s National Team (USWNT) from little kids to professionals. She that made an impact on women’s number two overall draft pick would fall short of the World Cup. It wants players to set their own records soccer. (Women's United Soccer Association) was a devastating thing for the team, and have their dreams. Abby Wambach was born June and was drafted by the Washington but in 2015 the USWNT redeemed "Forget the medals won, the 2, 1980 in Rochester, New York. The Freedom. She played alongside Mia themselves after sixteen years without records broken and the sacrifices youngest of seven children, she grew up Hamm for the start of her career. a win. The 2015 win came through hard made," Wambach said in an ad roughhousing with her older brothers. Hamm was an influential player and work and learning from the past years for Gatorade. "I want to leave a As she got older, sports were a large role model to Wambach. mistakes. The team came together as legacy where the ball keeps rolling part of her life, playing basketball and Wambach has made a difference one. Fans could tell when the team was forward, where the next generation soccer in high school. After graduation, both on and off the field, by showing having a hard game. No matter how accomplishes things so great that I am she focused on a career in soccer. young women that they don't have to fit badly they played, the team worked as no longer remembered." march madness from page 21 3/26- ONE SEEDS GO DOWN: 3/27- ORANGE SHOCKER: The first two games of the Elite Eight saw two of the four one-seeds in the Each Elite Eight game in the East and Midwest regions featured an ACC tournament go home. In the first game, Buddy Hield scored 37 points to lead match-up. The ACC absolutely dominated the tournament, with its teams the Oklahoma Sooners over the Oregon Ducks, 80-68. Hield’s 37 points bring sporting a combined record of 16-3 prior to these two games. The conference his total to 117 on the tournament, and he continues to make a push for the also had six teams make it to the Sweet 16, and four of those six made it to the Wooden Award, given to the National Player of the Year. Later that night, the Elite Eight. In the first game, the Syracuse Orange overcame a 14-point halftime Kansas Jayhawks squared off against the Villanova Wildcats. Kansas, one of the deficit to shock Virginia 68-62. After losing five of their last six games to end the favorites to win the tournament, had been playing like a championship-caliber regular season, Syracuse snuck their way into the field of 68, and according to team, but they met their makers in ‘Nova. The game went down to the wire, but some analysts, probably shouldn’t have. The Orange have capitalized on their the Wildcats were able to close out the game in the final seconds by hitting free opportunity, becoming the first 10-seed to make it to the Final Four and only throws and icing the game away, ending up with a 64-59 victory. This became the fourth double-digit seed to make it. Later that night, the North Carolina Tar the third straight opponent that Villanova beat in the tournament that had been Heels became the only one-seed to make the Final Four this year, as they beat ranked in the AP top 10 at some point during the regular season, after defeating Notre Dame 88-74. North Carolina already led the NCAA in total Final Four Iowa in the second round and Miami in the Sweet 16. appearances, and adds one more, bringing it up to 19. 4/2- The stage is set: 4/4- ‘nova finds unc’s “achilles heel”: Both Final Four games were absolute blowouts. In the first game, the In what was arguably the best National Championship game in recent Villanova Wildcats took down Wooden Award winner Buddy Hield and the years, the Villanova Wildcats won their first title since 1985, beating the Tar Oklahoma Sooners 95-51. The Wildcats continued to shoot at a blistering rate, Heels 77-74. North Carolina’s “achilles heel”, so to speak, was their lack of going an outstanding 35 for 49 from the field. Not only did head coach Jay depth, as their bench accounted for only 6 points, which put all the pressure Wright get a great performance from his starters, but his team showed great on their starters. Villanova recieved valuable minutes from both their starters balance as they were able to get solid performances from many of their bench and bench players. ‘Nova sophomore Phil Booth came off the bench averaging players as well. Their 44 point win-margin was the largest in Final Four history. less than seven points per game this season, and put up a career-high 20 to lead In the nightcap, North Carolina toppled their ACC foe Syracuse 83-66. Although all Wildcats players. The end of the game was when things really heated up. the Orange were able to stick around for the first part of the first half, they Trailing by nine points with about five minutes left, Brice Johnson and Marcus were just outmatched by this UNC squad. Led by their talented starting line- Paige fueled a Tar Heel rally to bring the score within three with 13 seconds left. up, featuring stars such as Brice Johnson and Marcus Paige, the Tar Heels tore After inbounding the ball, Marcus Paige hit an amazingly-clutch, double-pump apart Syracuse’s zone-defense that had shut down their previous opponents. The three-pointer to tie the game at 74 with four seconds left. However, the Wildcats outcome will be the the seventh meeting between Villanova and North Carolina would crush their hopes at overtime as Kris Jenkins would hit a deep three- in the NCAA tournament, with the Tar Heels winning the last four in a row. pointer as the buzzer sounded to win it for ‘Nova.

SPORTS knightlifenews.com 23 LOY NORRIX HIGH SCHOOL Officer Eric Pam Landis the Dunklin: Librarian: What do you enjoy doing when How long have you been here at you are not here at Loy Norrix? FACULTY Q+A Loy Norrix?

I am a total music head. I love I have been here for 10 years, everything about music, from starting in 2006. That means that I producing and recording, mixing have seen three different principals and performing. I have a little in the building. Mr. LaPrairie, Mr. group that goes around and Edwards and currently Mr. Prewitt. critiques each other on our music. What would you say to people What does music mean for you? who do not typically use the library as an academic resource? Music is a way of expression, it’s calming. It is something that you Come check us out! We open up can learn and always grow from. at 7 a.m. in the morning every Music is extremely social, and it morning, and we are open for brings everyone together. Every all lunches unless there are too musician can always get better, many classes using the library. We and musicians can always come are one of the only public school up with new ideas. People will libraries in the Kalamazoo area that never stop making music because do that, open in the morning and you can always make something at lunch for the use of the school different. body. Come print your paper or check out a book or just relax before going to class.

Assistant Principal Erin Middleton: Everyone typically asks what the worst part of your job is, but I want to know what the BEST part of your job is?

I enjoy being out in the hallway at passing time and during lunch. Getting to talk to every kid and interact with them is something that I did not get to do when I was just a counselor. That is the best part of my job.

What would you say to students who are not super involved with extracurriculars’s here at Norrix?

Step out of your box, step out of your comfort zone! There is something for everyone here. At least try something once and who knows, you might actually like it!