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@CentralStampede page 13 March 18, 2016 Vol. 22, Issue 5 centralstampede.com StampedePortage Central H.S. l 8135 S. Westnedge Ave. l Portage, MI 49002 ‘Conscience’ of the school remembered for her passion

BY SOPHIA MADDUX AND NOLAN CARANCI Staff Writers

The death of beloved Portage Cen- tral teacher Patricia Johnson, who spent Courtesy of Lizzie Ulmer 43 years of her life teaching and retired Making Change: Alumna Lizzie Ulmer (left) poses with Vice President Biden as last June, was a shock to many students part of her job with Everytown, a gun violence prevention organization. and faculty. Johnson passed away on Feb. 25 at the age of 66. She was well-known as a Alumna works to influence history teacher but also played a role in athletics for 23 years, according to Princi- pal Eric Alburtus. gun policy in Washington Alburtus said he started teaching at Portage Central when he was 24 and BY DAYTON JUDAY mer doesn’t have a typical regular day. taught history and German, just like Staff Writer Every morning, she must discuss with Johnson, at the time. Alburtus described her team of reporters the daily agenda her as witty, funny and sharp-tongued, Over the years, Portage Central has and what they need to accomplish for adding that everybody is now realizing graduated thousands of students, but the day. The daily jobs include anything how much of an impact she had on the Lizzie Ulmer is unique to others. Ulmer from writing a press statement to pre- Portage Central community. lives in Washington D.C., where she paring volunteers for media interviews. “Everyone respected her,” Alburtus works as a press secretary for the Every- Not only is Ulmer working this full-day said. “She was our conscience. If you town for Gun Safety organization. job, but she also finds time to squeeze did something that was not smart, she After graduating in 2007, she attend- in school. Right now, she is working on would be the one to tell you not to do Courtesy of Sara Brown ed the University of Wisconsin. When her master’s degree in public policy at it again.” she was there, she was able to take a Georgetown University. After studying In Memory: Above, summer internship in Washington D.C. and checking emails, with her little free Scott Solomon, a 2015 alumnus, Johnson walks out of In this internship, she learned about the time, she also said she likes to watch “The said he was stunned by Johnson's death. the school doors on her various job opportunities in Washington Bachelor. “ One of his fondest memories of John- final day of teaching last D.C., inspiring her to work there. Although Portage Central may seem son, he said, was a squirrel magnet she June as her colleagues Everytown is the largest gun violence like a small piece of her journey, it played had in her room, which a student got celebrate her retirement. prevention organization in the country. a big part in where she is right now, she for her because the room wasn’t “festive Far left, Johnson poses It currently has three million support- said. PC taught her how to handle hard enough.” The squirrel even had different for the school yearbook ers, consisting of mayors, police, moth- work and challenged her to try new outfits for each season. Solomon stated in 1974. Left, Johnson’s ers and everyday Americans. Their three things. Ulmer participated in many dif- that she was one of the smartest teach- squirrel celebrates St. main core branches are Mayors Against ferent activities such as basketball, soc- ers he has ever had and that she genu- Patrick’s Day. inely cared about teaching her students. Archives/STAMPEDE Ben Miller/STAMPEDE Illegal Guns, Moms Demanding Action cer, water polo and yearbook. These “She was one of the teachers who for Gun Sense in America, and the Every- experiences helped her build teamwork truly instilled my love for history and a close relationship built on their time on Johnson’s last day of school when she town Survivor Network. that she uses every day with her team at politics,” Solomon said. “She knew more spent together in Knitting Club and hired a limo driver. “Any time you speak about gun safe- Everytown. about history than anyone I´ve ever met.” Johnson even made an appearance at “Her last day of school here last year, ty or gun violence prevention, people “As a press secretary, my job involves Brian Taggett, another alumnus, his graduation party. she hired a limo driver to come meet her,” often believe you are trying to take peo- thinking on my feet and being creative,” was also shocked by Johnson’s passing. “She was such a sweet lady, and she’s Grand said. “They traveled around Ka- ple’s guns away or restrict the Second Ulmer said. “Those are all skills I started Taggett was especially fond of Johnson's going to forever be a part of this school,” lamazoo to all the schools she had ever Amendment in some way,” Ulmer said. to hone as a Mustang.” ability to teach from her experiences. Taggett said. gone to and took pictures. She went to “That is 100 percent not true.” Ulmer was a special student to the “It wasn't like she knew about it be- One teacher who was close with her elementary school, middle school, Everytown pushes the emphasis of teachers and staff when she roamed the cause she had watched a documentary Johnson was history teacher Kayleen Kalamazoo Central High School and Ka- gun safety and gun violence preven- halls at Portage Central. or read books on the subject,” Taggett Grand. Grand worked a lot with Johnson lamazoo College.” tion, not gun control. The organization “[She had a] great attitude and great said. “She lived through a lot of experi- to prepare for teaching and said she was Alburtus said Johnson had a much emphasizes that every day, 88 Americans sense of humor, but [she] was really try- ences, and she first-hand had several inspired by Johnson’s persistent hard bigger impact than many colleagues be- are shot and killed by people with guns, ing to take things seriously to improve perspectives on them.” work. She always knew what to do, and cause she interacted with so many differ- and hundreds more injured. herself, to take away as much as she Taggett said he and Johnson had how to do it. Her fondest memory was ent people. Working almost a 24/7 press job, Ul- could,” history teacher Kent Baker said. What’s Inside... Kardashians & Robertsons Some say Fast 50 program Which Hogwarts house are you? page Take our interactive quiz! How they turned their names 1 2 lacks anonymity into an empire page 3 page 9 2 news March 18, 2016 Bond money brings more technology in brief BY SAMHITA SUNKARA Staff Writer Spring Break week

Imagine living a life where you never have to coming soon handwrite notes ever again. You never have to walk Spring Break kicks off Thursday, March 31, with a up two floors carrying your algebra, biology, and his- half-day for students, and hours 1-4 meeting. School tory books. A life so wonderful, students would never dismisses at 10:50 a.m., but teachers will remain for have been thought to be possible, but with the pass- records day to end the third quarter. A full Spring ing of the bond proposal, we will be a few steps closer Break week begins on Monday, April 4, and school to this. The new bond proposal is providing the tech- will resume on Monday, April 11, with the fourth nology department with the financial aid for their lat- marking period also beginning that day. Standard- est project- giving one Chromebook laptop to each ized testing for underclassmen is also scheduled for Portage Public Schools student. that week. Daniel Vomastek, the director of information and technology systems, he leads the group of people who decide the technology goals. Vomastek sug- Teacher Talent Show is gested the idea of every student having a laptop dur- ing the bond planning. Many groups at the meeting back again this year agreed with the idea, therefore allowing it to become Nothing compares to seeing your beloved teach- a reality. ers perform in front of an audience of students at the “We want the use of technology in the classroom teacher talent show, and you’ll get the opportunity to be seamless and routine. Having to reserve carts, to watch them on Wednesday night. The teacher travel to computer labs, etc. interferes with that, lead- talent show occurs every two years, and not all, but ing to the use of technology being more of a special most of the teachers and staff participate. There is event than an integrated component,” Vomastek said Sharwari Salvi/STAMPEDE a small cost for admittance, and those raised dollars “This can distract resources away from quality in- New Tech: Freshman Reilly Moore and Zach Palan-Lilland enjoy the increase in accesibility to new will be donated to the Make a Wish Foundation of struction. By providing devices directly to students, technology for streamlining school work. Michigan, through Team Taylor of Mattawan. we eliminate this issue.” Vomastek also adds that the laptops will allow outlet to “extend and expand” on their learning skills. tion, most people seem to enjoy the laptops. students to have more modern ways to learn. Addi- “When used properly, the devices increase en- Sophomore Aiyla Arif believes that each student Plans for new facilities tionally, he explains that the world is relying on tech- gagement and collaboration, both of which translate receiving their own laptop will positively affect the nology, so “it’s about time that education follows this to higher performance and better preparation for convenience of learning. taking place now as well.” ‘21st century skills’ students will require in college “I don’t usually bring a computer to school, but if When asked how he thinks the Chromebooks will and the workforce,” Vomastek said. we’re doing a project in class that requires the inter- The Portage Board of Education approved benefit every student, Vomastek believes that stu- Chromebooks have been distributed in approxi- net, it’s very inconvenient to use the school laptops new master plans last month, ushering in facility dents will have additional resources to access if they mately 35 classrooms around the district test out the because they take so long to access,” Arif said. “I think changes that will drastically change the appearance don’t understand something. On the other hand, if problems and advantages these computers bring to that giving each student a laptop will allow them to of the Central High School campus. The plans came students have mastered the content, they have the the table. In terms of teacher and student satisfac- obtain resources needed quickly and easily.” about as a result of a $144 million bond issue that was approved by voters last fall.The new three-story Central Middle School will be built on Westnedge, to the west of the current middle school, but just south Newly-added AEDs provide safety for students and of the west entrance to the gym and high school. Additionally, a new aquatics center is planned for BY ALEX BECKMAN the east end of the gym. The new football stadium Staff Writer will be built at its current site. Since the master plans have been approved, design work can now begin. Trainer’s After scoring the winning basket, 16 year old Wes Library Leonard collapsed and died on the basketball court. Room It was found that he had an enlarged heart and died 2016 Grad Bash prices due to sudden cardiac arrest. Following his death his family instated a foundation to ensure organized are set in place youth athletic events have an automated external Portage Central High School Seniors who register for Grad Bash 2016 by April defibrillator (AED) present, universally labeled and 1 will pay a rate of $65. After that, prices increase to maintained. An AED is a portable device that checks $75 for registration and $80 at the door. Registration the heart rhythm and can send an electric shock to forms are located at the Welcome Center. Return the heart to try to restore a normal rhythm. AEDs are the forms with payment to either the main office used to treat sudden cardiac arrest. or to PCHS Grad Bash, Portage Central H.S., 8135 S. “The Wes Leonard heart foundation donated the Health Westnedge Ave., Portage, MI 49002. Any questions defibrillator outside the library because of the player can be directed to [email protected]. that died from a cardiac emergency,” Assistant Princi- Room pal Jason Frink said. Cardiac arrhythmias are unexpected and require Author Joe Hill will immediate medical attention, every second is vital to an individual’s health. If you have watched a movie Created by Gabe Pedraza /STAMPEDE talk in Google Hangout that a physician says “clear” and puts paddles on Charged Up: An approximate map of where AEDs are located throughout the school. Famous author Joe Hill will be talking to the someone’s chest you are familiar with an AED. public today at 3 p.m. in the Media Center. He won’t At Portage Central the administration strategical- Portage Central. A metal box is mounted each spot You’re not going to hurt somebody by using an AED, be coming to Portage physically, but he will be ly placed AEDs to ensure that in times of emergency on the wall which contains the AED. they are smart enough not to give a shock if not speaking through a Google Hangouts conversation. any individual could potentially save a life. The AEDs “One outside the health room, one outside the needed. The worst that will happen is that someone Hill is a New York Times best-selling horror author are state of the art, and don’t require a physician for library which is always accessible, there is one that is might be embarrassed. There are pictures the thing and is also the son of acclaimed author Stephen use. carried by the trainer, and goes wherever she goes, talks you through the process when you push the King. His most known books are “Horns” and “Heart- “There are pretty explicit instructions on the in- and there is one in the stable,” Frink said. “We cover button.” Shaped Box.” side of the container so I believe an untrained indi- the use of AEDs in our health classes, luckily the AEDs Approximately 30,000 people a year die of cardiac vidual would be able to use an AED properly,” Life- are easy to use. I think the most important thing for arrest outside of the hospital. The inclusion of AEDs in Compiled by Stampede Staff guard Ben Coll said. students is to know where they are. On all the doors and around highly populated areas might lower that The locations of each AED are at the entrances of in the building we post where the AEDs are located. number. March 18, 2016 news 3

survey of 50 students

...listen to music? Does your seminar...drink? teacher allow you to... yes 84 percent ...eat? yes 90 percent No yes percent 16 percent 82 No 10 percent Courtesy of Miller Auditorium No ...move around 18 percent - during work time? ...work with anoth ‘Cosmos’ host ...text or use er teacher? yes 56 percent the internet? yes percent 30 No percent yes 28 percent 44 Dr. deGrasse No 70 percent No 72 percent Tyson visits Kalamazoo How strict is your seminar supervisor?

BY CARLY FLECK there’s only one way to do it: look it up on a phone. son if they choose,” freshman Cam Nosal said. “Teach- this month “If you don’t have access to the Internet, and you ers should be way more lenient.” Staff Writer BY BEN MILLER need to check the Google Sites of teachers, how This year, the “no more than three people in the li- else are you supposed to get the info?” senior Chel- brary at once” rule has been enforced more than ever. Staff Writer Every teacher has his or her own views on rules sie Morgan said. “As well as if you have nothing else Some students say it seems to be affecting our school for the classroom. Most are generic, such as “be nice,” to do, what else are you supposed to do? Stare at a in a not-so-positive way. It isn’t often that a world-renowned, famous indi- “be respectful” or “do your best.” For some teachers, wall?” Most seminars have a full number of students in vidual comes to Kalamazoo. We have become accus- seminar calls for a twist in their everyday core class Cell phones can be a resource used to better every class. Many students believe that it's not logical tomed to travelling to either Detroit or Chicago for regulations. students’ education. The Internet has millions of re- to let only the first three kids that show up to class concerts, sporting events, and speeches. However, The real question is, when do rules during semi- sources for a wide spectrum of subjects that can help have a highly needed pass to the library or Media on March 22, Neil deGrasse Tyson, a world-renowned nar become too strict? In a survey of 50 students, 72 students have a better understanding of what is be- Center. scientist, will be making the pilgrimage to Kalama- percent of students aren't allowed to use cell phones ing taught in the classroom. “The new rule is dumb. Not every student has ac- zoo. He will speak to an audience at Miller Audito- in any way, 44 percent of students say they aren’t al- Seminar is a class that gives kids an opportunity cess to printers at home,” Morgan said. “If you need to rium on the campus of Western Michigan University lowed to move around during their seminar, and 80 to get work done, and take a small, yet needed break work on a paper and you can't go, then you can't do about scientific matters. percent of students say their seminar teacher won’t from the day’s constant learning. Not to mention, ev- what you need to, and then you’re deprived of your Neil deGrasse Tyson is known for his many ac- let more than three people go to the library at once. eryone has assignments that will take 50 minutes to homework.” complishments regarding science. Specifically, he is Some students say they are frustrated by the re- complete. Although the strict policies have caused a stir up intensely interested in astronomy and astrophysics. strictions on technology. Most teachers now have “Students need a break from all of their studies, for most students, they have been put in place to Born in New York City in 1958, Tyson grew up deeply Google Sites with information for kids to keep up on and they should be able to use seminar for that rea- help keep seminars under control. passionate about science. He applied his interest daily assignments. To look at the site during seminar, throughout his schooling at Harvard and scientific career. He has had the key roles in many educational institutions including University of Maryland and Princeton University. Revealing the truth behind Fast 50 Taking up the role as one of faces of the scien- tific community, Tyson has been an active advocate BY BELLA PEDRAZA “It’s a police investigation and you’re aiding in thy,” junior Andrew Backer said. “They promise to give of NASA. Appearing on late night TV to meeting the News Editor that investigation, so we are not always able to pay you $50 if you totally ruin your reputation by telling president of the United States, Tyson has become the $50 out, but we on people, but I think try really hard if you rarely do they fulfill that something of a cultural icon who attracts fans from The Fast 50 program’s goal is to allow students give information,” El- promise.” all over the word. to keep their school safe by offering an incentive, ac- hert said. The common belief Sophomore Christina Cinilla is impressed by Ka- cording to school police officer Ehlert. But for some According to El- among students is that lamazoo’s attracting Tyson. students, it is a program designed to turn students hert, evidence such the Fast 50 program “Michigan is actually a hub for scientific innova- against each other. as stolen property, is “just a way to catch tion and STEM innovation, being that we have Detroit The Fast 50 program is an anonymous tip hotline drugs or weapons more kids doing bad and the auto industry. Even our own town here has where students can call, text, email or contact an most likely has to things,” senior Amanda lots of innovation in medical fields, so it’s great that administrator to notify officials of an illegal situation be recovered by the Boelman said. However, we are encouraging people and prominent scientific such as under age drinking, theft or illegal drug use. police for the tip to according to Portage figures like Neil deGrasse Tyson,” Cincilla said. In return, the student is supposed to receive $50. One be considered legiti- Police Sgt. Matt Wolfe, Biology teacher Cathy Laurencig is also very ex- student who provided a tip, however, was never re- mate and allow the “student safety is the cited to have such a prominent scientific figure in imbursed. student to be eli- number one objective Kalamazoo. “After I reported a crime through the Fast 50 pro- gible to receive $50. of the program.” “Well, he’s very personable and he’s an interesting gram, I didn't get anything [money] out of it, even Also, when students Courtesy of Kalamazoo Silent Observer It is unclear whether public speaker–he’s got humor, and people can relate though there was definitely enough evidence,” said go to receive the cash, they must go directly to Elhert the faults of the program are a result of these con- to him. I’m always a fan of people who are smart and the 18 year old student who requested anonymity. or a school administrator. This method can be hard to flicting thoughts or the miscommunication of what then can still communicate with the rest of us,” Lau- “Also, people found out. It’s not reliable at all.” keep the student completely anonymous, despite the deems a tip worthy of a reward. In the end, it is up rencig said. Despite the promise of the cash to be rewarded, best efforts of school staff. This raises concern among to the student to decide whether to report a crime if A contest was held by the Portage District Library some students intend that the Fast 50 program con- students about the reliability of the program. someone is truly in danger, regardless of if there is a to recieve VIP tickets to the event and meet Dr. Tyson tains loopholes that does not guarantee actually re- “This proves the Fast 50 program isn’t trustwor- possibility of pocketing $50. backstage. Senior Shawna Huang won the contest. warding the $50. Ehlert disagrees. 4 view March 18, 2016 Absolute guarantee of anonymity needed for Fast 50 The Fast 50 program is advertised the time the fact that trouble. This way students can remain as a way of keeping our school safe. In police report there have in a safe environment due to other theory, a student who has knowledge requires the staff editorial been many students continually reporting illegal of an illegal activity could notify either student to kids who pro- behaviors. the school police officer or another be identified as a witness or source, vide information without receiving a The Fast 50 program has an ad- official with the reward of $50. The re- opposing their previous guarantee. reward. This is due to the police deter- mirable goal, but it does not have a ality is, for many students, the money If the other students don’t find out mining whether or not the tip is worth great execution. If students are willing is not worth the hassle. from the police report they could find the $50 reward or if the reported kids to give information to keep others The main problem with the Fast 50 out from the long line of others that are eventually caught. safe, they should not have to trade in program is the advertisements. On the are involved in giving the student the We believe that the Fast 50 pro- their popularity. The biggest problem bookmarks and the posters regard- reward. Not only does this betray the gram could be a valuable deterrent if is that the students will not remain ing the program, there is always the student but it also compromises his a student can absolutely trust it and anonymous if they desire the reward, promise of anonymity for the student. or her safety. This causes problems for count on anonymity. If a student is which compromises the safety of the However, the student’s name who the program because students have in a dangerous situation or in need student. If the Fast 50 program can be reports an illegal activity is usually eventually learned not trust it. of help, they could call on this pro- tweaked, we can succeed in keeping discovered by other students. Most of We also have a problem with the gram without the fear of getting into school safe. StampedeCENTRAL five five Shawna Huang Lucy Forster on Editors-in-Chief Dayton Juday, Bella Pedraza...... News Editors Olivia Oles...... View Editor Jori Gelbaugh...... Focus Editor Dakotah Lilly...... Vibe Editor Zach Franks...... Sports Editor Kelsee Ha, Sharwari Salvi...... Photo Editors Staff Writers: Brianna Martinez, Theo Kizer, Alyson Koh, Ben Miller, Kyle Palmer, Gabe Pedraza, Samhita Sunkara, Mark Williams, Isabella Wilson, Nolan Caranci, Alex Beckman, Carly Fleck, Jake Maynard, 9th Anjana Krishman, 10th Anjan Kotekal, 11th Allison Denison, 12th Mlle. Flachs Sophia Maddux Business Manager: Ethan Dunlop 1. What is your ideal field trip? (p. 2) Adviser: Cheryl Braford Going to Krispy Kreme. Going home. I would like to have a Hogsmeade. France. The Central Stampede publishes approximately one fun time in Narnia with publication a month, primarily by the Journalism friends. II class at Portage Central High School, 8135 S. Westnedge, Portage, MI 49002. It also uses work from Journalism I students. 2. What is a life skill that students should learn in school? (p. 6) The Central Stampede is a member of the Michigan Interscholastic Press Association (MIPA). The How to act in an How to avoid procrasti- “Treat yo self.” How to become an Learning to make purpose of the Central Stampede is to act as an open emergency. nating and starting your Animagus. (and stick to) a bud- forum for students of Portage Central. The staff homework at 3 in the get. will achieve a balance between informing and morning. entertaining our readers.

Editorials 3. What Hogwarts house are you, and why? (p. 9) Staff editorials are unsigned and represent consen- sus of the staff. The opinion of the staff is repre- Ravenclaw, because I I don’t watch Harry Pot- I prefer condos. Wherever the Sorting Hat Is that from a book on sented in the “Our View” column. The opinions get good grades. ter. I would rather be in thinks I should go. the AP Lit reading list? of the editors, staff writers and guest writers will the House of Representi- have bylines and will carry their own views. tives.

Letters As an open forum, the Stampede welcomes all 4. What are the Kardashians famous for? (p. 12) members of the Portage community. However, Their T.V. show and Kim’s Annoying me. Someone named RJ. I don’t pay attention to Botox, 72-day marriages the staff reserves the right to edit letters based on butt. those Muggles. and being famous. length and content.

Phone: (269) 323-5218 Fax: (269) 323-5290 Room: 2116 5. What’s your strategy for picking your March Madness bracket? (p. 13)

The Central Stampede I pick my favorite teams, I choose the opposite of Tom Burns gives great I only watch Quidditch. Is that football or base- and if I don’t like either what my mom picks. advice. ball? Portage Central High School team, I go by ranking. 8135 South Westnedge Ave. Portage, MI 49002 March, 18 2016 view 5 What should America do to control gun violence?

The Second Amendment The United States should should not be infringed upon enact gun safety measures

me that our world consists of this evil, and I write national legislature is the National Rifle Associa- this with complete sensitivity to the victims of tion (NRA). The NRA spends millions every year last month’s Kalamazoo shooting. However, to influence votes, ensuring nothing is done in let’s look back into history. This kind of evil has regards to gun violence. Whenever there is a been happening for hundreds of years, since the mass shooting, the NRA deploys their army of days of Jesse James, Jack the Ripper or the KKK. lobbyists to try and stop any reactionary laws However, the mass media of today broadcasts from being passed. The NRA perverts the very these acts of evil so heavily that they seem more idea of democracy by influencing Congress with BY LUCY FORSTER prevalent in our lives. Courtesy ofBY Yahoo BEN Sports MILLER large amounts of money and in turn, stripping Whether the Second Amendment is kept the people’s voice in the national conversation. Editor-in-Chief or eventually dissolved there is no doubt in my Staff Writer There is no doubt in my mind that nearly mind that there will always be mass shootings every gun owner is responsible and peaceful. The Founding Fathers created the Bill of and violence. People will find a way to obtain Kalamazoo bared witness to the horror guns However, right now in the United States, it is far Rights to protect democracy and to give citi- weapons or whatever their heart desires no mat- can bring to a community. Suddenly, shootings too easy for a criminal to obtain a gun and that zens guaranteed personal freedoms and rights. ter if it’s in the Bill of Rights or not. A criminal weren’t something we simply saw on CNN hap- needs to end. This is an issue that is supported However, there is one amendment in the the Bill is a criminal. Someone who wants to perform pening in a far off city–it was happening in our across the board. According to the Center for of Rights that has recently come under fire. The a mass shooting isn’t going to worry about backyard. Six innocent people were gunned American Progress, 83 percent of gun owners Second Amendment gives Americans the right whether their gun is legal or illegal; frankly, the down and murdered in locations most of us are nationally support criminal background checks to bear arms. However, there is one important law is probably the last thing on their mind. In all too familiar with. Sadly, tragedies like this oc- on all sales of firearms, while only 14 percent of part of the Second Amendment that people for- fact, criminals who perform mass shootings are cur with great frequency in communities across gun owners oppose them. This issue transcends get about: that this right “shall not be infringed clearly mentally and emotionally unstable. this country. We need to do something to pre- political lines but our representatives who sup- upon.” To me this means that hands down, no The Kalamazoo shooting was a tragedy that vent more lives from being lost. Not only are posedly represent the people don’t pass any matter what, my right to bear arms should not hit way too close to home. This shooting makes gun safety measures necessary, but they save laws because they are too afraid of the NRA be taken away or restrained. it difficult to defend the Second Amendment, lives and protect people from being killed by coming after them, while our fellow citizens The Second Amendment was specifically especially since the shooter obtained the gun le- making sure firearms don’t fall into the wrong are dying. The blood of the innocent is on the created to protect people’s rights. When the gally. However, because of the Second Amend- hands. hands of Congress who comes up with excuses constitution was written, anti-Federalists feared ment a civilian could have used his or her own From Los Angeles to Kalamazoo, gun vio- instead of preventing violence. The innocent that the government would become too large personal gun to stop the shooter. Guns are not lence plagues our society. It has become com- elementary school students in Newtown, the and overtake the people’s rights. The Second changing. Guns are not the problem. People monplace in America to turn the other cheek students of Columbine, the young African- Amendment was not just included to give are changing, and people are the problem. We to these mass shootings and move on with our American teens murdered daily on Chicago’s people the right to bear arms, but also to have live in a world where citizens believe they are lives. But now the issue is becoming more preva- south side and the victims in Kalamazoo all need a “well-regulated militia,” which according to the allowed to express their feelings through vio- lent and we need to enact common sense gun to be remembered. Actions needs to come from Bill of Rights is “necessary to the security of a free lence that affects the lives of others, sometimes regulation laws as soon as possible. More and their deaths–not silence. The United States of state.” even innocent strangers. We need to focus less more people–gun owners and non–gun own- America must enact legislation that targets gun The controversy over the Second Amend- on taking away guns and more on helping our ers alike–demand action. And yet, Congress has violence and mental illness. Now that this epi- ment is the fact that there have been numer- fellow Americans. The right to bear arms is my done nothing. The main reason is actually quite demic has touched close to home, we must urge ous shootings in the news recently. Yes, these inalienable right, and it should not be altered or, simple: money. The most high profile firm asso- our representatives now, more than ever, to do shootings are tragedies, and it deeply saddens God forbid, taken away. ciated with gun rights and the corruption of our what’s right.

We need to learn to accept others’ viewpoints I personally have retweeted something that end- Intolerance like this all starts with someone post- ology. If not, your opinion is viewed as wrong and ed with people questioning my sanity and calling me ing their opinion, resulting in an attack. This is usu- your lashed at. It’s extremely hypocritical, and this is “Trump Lover,” as well as an assortment of names. All ally from more than one person or account who act why primarily conservatives get attacked. Let’s make I posted was a harmless conservative poll at the be- as a widespread gang. They may never speak to each a comparison, shall we? A Democrat posts a “Feel ginning of the political season I didn’t think anyone other outside of the Internet, but in the midst of a the Bern” picture in support of the Democratic can- BY OLIVIA OLES would care. But, of course, this is the Internet, and fight or a controversial topic, they back each other didate Bernie Sanders. People respectively like it and View Editor someone is always offended. up in every argument possible. These topics have nobody explodes. If a Republican posts a Ben Carson As a conservative in a primarily liberal school, I’ve ranged a variety of political sore spots like abortion quote, the Internet goes on a world-web wide roast, There are certain things everyone knows not to accepted the fact that it’s hard to spread my political and gun control. Just last month at Portage Northern scolding the person for their beliefs. post on social media: your address, your credit card opinion without getting bashed. I figured social me- an article was published about the right to believe in The more people start attacking others, the more numbers and your phone being a few. Add to that list dia would be an adequate place to do it, but I was ap- meninism vs. feminism. Individuals who did not share they force their opinions down other people’s throats your political views. With the presidential campaign parently wrong. What I discovered was people blow- the popular beliefs received death threats on social Let’s be honest: no one wants to hear that. People underway, there has been an increase in cyberbul- ing an innocent retweet out of proportion and not media. personalize their beliefs to a degree where they can’t lying regarding political philosophy. If you don’t be- accepting any other viewpoint but their own. They Isn’t accepting others who are different generally accept the fact that someone differs from them. It’s lieve me just take a glance at any social media site. It were making assumptions about how I worshipped a liberal concept? Democrats preach that we should good to have healthy debates, but we need to keep is most likely littered with hate posts of some political Donald Trump when in reality, I was just supporting accept everyone, no matter their race, gender, body others’ viewpoints in mind. People need to accept figure or someone’s political beliefs. the Republican Party. type or sexuality, but only if you agree with their ide- other viewpoints, even if they don’t agree with them. 6 view March 18, 2016 Don’t rain on Muslims shouldn’t be generalized as terrorists

has become commonly publicized. Conversely, the by the name of Craig Hicks. Have you forgotten that millenials’ FBI reports that the likelihood of a Muslim commit- both men wanted to initiate a race war, yet STILL they ting a terrorist attack in the United States is 6 percent, are not labeled as terrorists? You have forgotten, for leaving more than 90 percent of non-Muslims re- if you hadn't, the slogan, “All terrorists are Muslims” parade sponsible for countless other terrorist attacks. There- would cease to exist. fore, the generalization of “all terrorists are Muslims” Currently, there have been a total of 42 mass is profoundly unjustifiable. shootings in just this year. The recent mass shootings Generalizing all terrorists as Muslim can be in Kalamazoo itself is an act of terrorism which can- proven erroneous without any hesitation- like when not be ignored. Despite whether or not the media pointed out that there is an overwhelming number decides to claim that the terrorist is mentally ill, we of terrorist attacks that have been carried out by sev- BY REEM SHEBRAIN need to realize that a terrorist is a terrorist regardless eral groups of non-Muslims. The first example, the of race, religion, or background. Guest Writer Ku Klux Klan (KKK), are a group of white protestant It is essential that we must reject any form of extremists who terrorized African Americans. They negative stereotypes of Muslims. We must not cast In the Western world, many people affiliate the implemented racial controls on African Americans the apocalyptic behavior of ISIS, or of the KKK as rep- BY SHAWNA HUANG word “terrorism” with ISIS, some think the Middle East and exercised their fantasies of murdering more than resentatives of the entire faith of Islam or Christianity. and some think Islam. Usually when addressing this 3,000 African Americans once slavery was no longer Editor-in-Chief Moreover. topic there is no mention of other acts of violence be- in the Constitution. Still until this day, they are ac- In today’s society, many people try to claim that sides those of “Islamic Extremism.” This type of men- tively recruiting. the entire religion of Islam is not a religion of peace, I spend a lot of time on the Internet. Honestly, tality leads us back to the media; our main source of Another example of a non-Muslim terrorist would rather, a religion of hatred and war. However, this it’s probably unhealthy. I’ve come to love browsing “information.” include Hitler as the leader of the Nazi Party which claim is completely wrong and distorted. In the links on Reddit, scrolling through the daily features The media has no longer become a reliable was responsible for the mass murder of more than Quran (the Holy Book of Islam), God orders His be- on iFunny, and watching educational videos on You- source. It has become the ultimate initiator of the three million innocent Jews. It is unjust to not affili- lievers, “Whoever kills a person [innocent person]…it Tube (I know, I know, I’m really lame). To older genera- Islamophobia epidemic where many of the news an- ate the KKK and Hitler with terrorism knowing the is as though he has killed all mankind. And whoever tions, I might as well be a poster child for the millen- chors preach about a religion that they themselves amount of bloodshed they have caused, it dishonors saves a life, it is as though he had saved all mankind” nial. After all, the word “millennial” has come to have do not understand. the lives lost in such acts. They have proven to us, (Chapter 5: Verse 32). a connotation of a lazy, entitled, self-centered bum The words of a white male or female have be- through their actions, that they are TERRORISTS, and The next time the topic of terrorism arises, realize who does nothing but waste his or her time on the In- come more truthful than a colored man’s and the not Muslim. All terrorists are NOT Muslim. that a terrorist does not have to be a woman wear- ternet. And every time I hear this term being used to acts of terror committed by a white man is justified Have you forgotten what happened on June ing a headscarf nor does it have to be a man with a belittle our generation, I can’t help but cringe a little. with a possible mental illness. And we, as view- 19,2015, in Charleston, S.C.? Nine victims were terro- beard. A terrorist can be anyone, not just a Muslium. Older generations seem to hate on millennials ers, have surrendered our minds and given it to the rised in a historic black church by a racist white man, So please, let’s not generalize or discriminate against for letting their technology do all their work for them spokesperson. Dylann Roof. Have you forgotten what happened someone different based on their religion. Not all and not doing any of it themselves. But isn’t that the In the Westernized media, the phrase, “All Mus- on February 13,2015, in Chapel Hill , N.C.? Three in- Muslims are terrorists, and not all terrorists are Mus- entire point of having technology? Didn’t previous lims are not terrorists but all terrorists are Muslim,” nocent Muslims were assassinated by an Atheist man lims. generations sacrifice so much to make our lives easi- er? Our parents worked hard to give us lives rich with opportunity and advancement, and it’d be senseless to throw that all to the wind simply because other people think the easy way is lazy. School should teach students life skills The term itself wasn’t even coined by millennials – it was coined by two historians in 1991. Now, there seems to be this trend of using the term to belittle format a letter. sonal communication will benefit students because millennials. There’s always been something discom- This is important for the success of any person be- they will be prepared to walk into a job interview and forting about one group of people using a term to cause you may need to write formal letters to bosses, have an idea of how to formulate answers to ques- describe another in a derogatory light. We’ve faced coworkers, and other superiors in the work environ- tions in a polite and professional tone. this problem many times before in our history, and ment. This will make you stand out in the crowd from While our educators utilize their time teaching it’s never gone over well. everyone else. When it comes to writing checks or us through Powerpoints, textbooks and worksheets, Yet all this negative pressure ignores the actual balancin checkbooks, we aren’t taught how they students will be less prepared for the real world. problems we millennials face on a daily basis. With work or how they are formatted. Considering adults Teachers should incorporate real life skills into stu- the new technology we have, we’re dealing with use them practically every week, shouldn’t we know dents’ everyday curriculum to make them better new pressures on our economy and our society, with BY SAMHITA SUNKARA more about them? individually and professionally. While knowing the minimal guidance from past generations on how to Students should learn more skills that are Amendments to the Constitution may be beneficial handle it. We’re practically on our own in trying to fig- Staff Writer applicable in real life so that to a future lawyer, it will mean nothing to a student ure out how to use technology to change the world. every person can be set up to aspiring to be an artist. I’m sure most of us can solve a quadratic function, On top of all that, we’ve been told we have to succeed in whatever they do By teaching life skills, students will learn but if given the task, could you do your own taxes? have everything like a good job, a perfect relation- after high school. After all, something they will definitely find useful later Unless you’re one of the few, most of us are pushed ship, a beautiful family and a home in a quiet neigh- that is the pur- in life. In doing this, schools will be prepar- out into the real world not knowing how to do these borhood with a white picket fence. We’re expected to pose of ing each student for success in the real everyday “grown-up” tasks. In school, educators are be broadly educated, pay off our student loans, solve world as well. Students will be more so caught up in teaching the curriculum that they problems of climate change and political corruption. confident and comfortable walk- don’t have time to instruct the basic tasks that We face a ton of pressure to expect more out of our ing into a job interview. every student will have to face in the lives, and when we fall short of those expectations, I’m sure I’m not the first near future. School should teach us our place in this world comes crumbling down. We’re person to point this fault skills we need because it’s something treated as not working hard enough, not being smart in our education system out. that all of us will eventually use, no enough, not appreciating the hard work our parents However, why aren’t we doing matter what profession we go into and did to get us where we are, despite all the hard work anything about it? With standards everyone can be prepared for success. we’ve done to try to reach our goals. rapidly increasing for job openings, Writing out checks or writing letters is Olivia Oles/STAMPEDE Older generations hate us for being lazy and en- now is the time to implement these a simple task that is so easy to learn, yet it is titled, yet they expect us to solve all of the problems skills. By simply altering the school surprising how little we know them. As time they created. We work harder than ever to try to do education. We curriculum to make sure every student learns these progresses so does technology, which results that, but we’re harshly criticized if we ever fail. As a are forced to present tasks, life for them will run smoothly in the future. It is in the lack of proper communication skills. Some millennial, my opinion is less valued by society be- in front of a classroom of our a necessity for schools to start teaching real-life skills, may wonder why you would waste time and effort peers, however, we never focus on cause society sees me as a good-for-nothing bum. because it is something that every student will use, writing a letter to your grandma when you can just For most of us, that couldn’t be further from the truth. how to speak to another person in a profes- and it sets everybody up for success in the future. Facetime her? And while we do send the occasional So please, stop using the word “millennial” to sional environment. Students rely on their phones While not everyone will use the quadratic formula af- forced-by-your-parents thank you card to relatives patronize my generation. After all, the future of the for communicating to each other, but that’s not how ter high school, everyone needs to know some basic after Christmas, we aren’t taught how to properly world lies in our hands. it works in a professional setting. Teaching intraper- adult tasks. March 18, 2016 focus 7 Spring break crossword What to expect when at Art Hop BY SHARWARI SALVI All your favorite vacation destinations Photo Editor

When the citizens of Portage thought that this BY ISABELLA WILSON town was incredibly boring they weren’t aware of Staff Writer the mesmerizing art gallery just a drive away. 1 Kalamazoo’s Art Hop is an art gallery specked throughout downtown Kalamazoo. From art dealers to fine art, Art Hop has something for everyone. Perfect for a date night or a night out on the town, this free event is on the first Friday of every month from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. 3 2 Art Hop features your typical art exhibit paint- ings, but it also allows sellers from all over the nation including our very own locals to display and sell their products. Jennifer Welch is one of those local artists. Welch Sharwari Salvi/STAMPEDE and her company, Mitten-N-More, was asked to be Art: Artists in Kalamazoo are given a chance to Urban Cottage’s guest artists during the October display their work every month at Art Hop. and December art hop for the holiday season. She 1 excitement when someone purchases one of your utilizes materials such as wool sweaters and coats items for themselves or for a gift,” Welch said. that could otherwise be in the landfill and creates Art Hop is great way to not only to meet local pieces of art that are useful and artistic. 4 artists, but also to be involved in a trendy event that Through Mittens-N-More, Welch has a variety can be enjoyed by many. Participants may grab a of products such as felted wool sweater mittens, bite to eat at the array of local restaurants available college and school mittens, sport mittens, pillows, in Downtown Kalamazoo. Then they can tour Art felted flowers and key fobs. Hop with friends or family for no cost at all. “You get to share your talents with people what 2 “It is a great way to end a long week with family you might not normally meet and get to see the and friends by just having fun,” Welch said.

5 Dealing with test anxiety BY BRIANNA MARTINEZ life or death when it’s really not,” Tarnutzer said. 4 Test anxiety isn’t a phenomena that is strictly Staff Writer confined to high stakes tests like the SAT and exams, either. People can be afflicted with these feelings of uneasiness for any and every test or quiz they take. Test anxiety is a very common feeling that strikes Health Teacher Katie Eichstaedt suffered from Test its victims when they’re faced with an important anxiety when she was a high school student at PC, 3 exam, or even a very small vocabulary quiz. Ac- and overcame it with strategic tricks and persever- cording to the Anxiety and Depression Association ance. of America, test anxiety can result from fear of Eichstaedt was diagnosed with Test anxiety failure, bad past test scores and lack of preparation. during her Sophomore year, and prior to it had been Symptoms can include anything from feeling faint to having some extremely frustrating academic experi- vomiting. ences. She recalls studying for hours on end, only to Many students don’t know what to do when receive a D on her tests. Finally Mrs. Taylor, formerly these symptoms strike them in the midst of answer- Ms. Rieger, intervened and helped get Eichstaedt the ing test questions, which creates an even bigger feel- assistance she needed. ing of uneasiness. With the SAT and IB tests coming Across Down Eichstaedt used a wide variety of strategies to up, it’s important to be educated on the things that 1. The whitest sand on the beaches are found in this 1. Don’t forget to visit Mile Marker Zero at this south- help her study and to aid her in staying calm during could affect your test taking skills. Alabama resort town. ernmost city in the U.S. tests, such as color coded notes and bringing gum Just like any high school, some Mustangs suffer 2. The West Coast hot spot everyone wishes they 2. This Colorado resort is a hot spot for skiing, and and a “worry stone” to help her focus during exams. from test anxiety. Sophomore Sydney Floyd experi- could visit. will have you dying for a longer winter. Eichstaedt’s best advice for any student struggling ences shaking hands and rapid heartbeat before, 3. Cash out your wallet at this shopping capital of 3. Head out west to this Wonder of the World located with Test anxiety is not to be ashamed of it. during and following tests. the U.S., and see a Broadway show while you’re at it. in Arizona. “Get help, just ask anybody. I’d be willing to bend “It’s scary and I just want to get up and move 4. Find Atlantis in this tropical group of Caribbean 4. Spend a night with Mickey and Minnie in the hap- over backwards to help anybody if they need it. It’s around, but I can’t because I’m taking a test,” Floyd islands. piest place on earth in this tourist town. so frustrating when you try your hardest and its not 5. Rent the best beachfront condo on the shore in said. “When the test is finally over it just feels like a good enough,” Eichstaedt said. this tropical, Mexican city. complete weight has been lifted off my shoulder.” Sophomore Ryan Crawford also experiences Test Guidance counselor Todd Tarnutzer offered some Anxiety due to his rigorous course load. insight into what students can do to ensure that test “[When you have Test Anxiety] you [get] very anxiety doesn’t interfere with their testing strategies. nervous, and you [feel like] you’re going to mess “I feel like Test anxiety [is] a [very] real thing up because test are a large portion of your grade,” depending on the student, and I think the biggest Crawford said. “They’re hard to bounce back from, factor in Test anxiety is preparation,” Tarnutzer said. especially at the beginning of a semester.” There is a wide variety of practice options avail- To prevent feelings of Test anxiety, it is best to able to students, more than there have been in past prepare yourself beforehand. Studying in new ways years, and Tarnutzer strongly urges students to take can be very beneficial; as well as deep breathing advantage of them. Consistent practice accustoms exercises and positive self talk. But perhaps the most students to the rigor of the exam, which can alleviate important thing to remember is that you are not anxiety. Changing up preparation habits, such as alone. studying with a partner or having a parent quiz you, “It’s okay. We’re all anxious about tests. It’s all can also help according to Tarnutzer. hard, [and] we all do it,” Floyd said. “Just know [that] “The pressure comes from feeling like [a test] is as long as you do your best, you’re okay.” 8 focus March 18, 2016 “This is Portage Central. Welcome to our Cribs.” Whether it’s lion piñatas or ways to personalize their rooms. doors full of bizarre pictures, The Stampede investigated some teachers and students around the of the most interesting decorations school certainly have some unique in teachers’ rooms. Compiled by Jori Gelbaugh

I have Dr. Who postcards, which I put up hopefully once a day but that doesn’t always

work out. Now I [have] some students helping me with that. I’ve never gotten them all up, but I try. I have the Flag of Rohan from ‘Lord of the Rings’, of course. They are people who

take care of horses and I thought [of Mustangs] and I thought that was a cool connec- tion between our world and there. It’s my favorite [decoration]. I’ve got the “Jim Henson and Kermit the Frog apple poster from the 1980’s. I have the “ ‘Dark Side of the Moon’ poster, which was given to me by my uncle, who was also a science teacher and quotes on whiteboards from Wil Wheaton that I find significant.

Mr. Czuk Math and Science Teacher

I started hanging up the scarves when we first moved into the building. I thought that the walls were kind of boring. I started collecting scarves probably 15 years ago. In

Europe, all the teams wear - their fans wear- scarves, it’s part of what they do to support their team. So the first couple I got were teams that I supported, [and] it’s kind of taken

off. I love Manchester United, so I’ve got four Manchester United ones. I mean they all “have kind of a cool story, I bought the Holland one in an airport in Amsterdam, so they all mean a little something. I see a lot of soccer games. In high school, I played soccer, “ if you could call it that. I played a little bit in college, and then I started coaching in college. I’ve been coaching ever since - 25 years of coaching, so soccer means a lot.

Mr. Halloran Math Teacher

At Portage Central, the first year I came, I decorated my room with the piñatas I first

had at Hackett. Some of them I’ve inherited from past Spanish teachers that have retired or students who have had parties for birthdays and different things and their parents

don’t want them. I’m kind of the orphanage for pinatas. Some of them people have bought for gifts, too, but most of them my students have made. Bull’s Eye [is my “favorite], which kind of fits because then he can kind of also be a Mustang. “ My students made him because I really like “Toy Story.”

Señorita Reidel Spanish Teacher

Around the room, the yerds have seasonal decorations, depending on the time of the year. Every time the season changes, we hang something new from the ceiling. For ex- ample, around Christmas time we, hung snowflakes from the ceiling, and around gradu-

ation, we photoshopped graduation caps onto famous people and hung them from the ceiling. We have a quote wall and a picture wall where we showcase funny things

“said by staff members and funny pictures we come across while making the book. We have a basketball hoop and blankets in the room for down time. Also, we have a Christmas tree in the room, but it stays up all year [with “ different decorations]. We like to decorate the room because it makes it feel more welcoming and more homey. It’s a fun little activ- ity to pass time between deadlines that helps us all bond.

Sam Praeger Yearbook Editor March 18, 2016 focus 9

What activity at Portage Central are you most involved in?

Music. Volunteering. Athletics. Forensics. Science Olympiad.

Who’s your On the field, or on What’s your biggest created by Shawna Huang audience? the sidelines? goal for high school?

“Oh, you may not think I'm pretty, The world! On the sidelines. On the field. Get the IB diploma. Lead a club or activity. But don't judge on what you see; My friends. I'll eat myself if you can find Place at the state tournament. Just me. What’s on your What were you A smarter hat than me.” All out, bucket list? doing last night? every game. How do you show school spirit? “The same thing we do Passive Traveling! Skydiving! every night, Pinky – try to participation. take over the world!”

Homework, unfortunately.

Hufflepuff. Slytherin. Evil, or Gryffindor. Ravenclaw. What even is a just ambitious? Brawn over brains? You nerd. Hufflepuff? *slowly backs away* Favorite nearby fast food locations Subway BY KELSEE HA Distance from PCHS: 0.9 miles Photo Editor Meal price: $5-8 Jimmy John’s Description: Wide variety of six-inch or foot-long subs with Distance from PCHS: 0.7 miles Sam’s Club several types of healthy breads, Meal price: $8-12 meats, vegetables, condiments Distance from PCHS: 1.3 miles Description: At Jimmy John’s, you and more. If you order a meal, Meal price: $2-5 can buy either an eight-inch sub you can also have a medium Description: Choose from a meal or a club sandwich and wash it fountain drink (CocaCola prod- with two pieces of pizza or a meal down with a variety of CocaCola with a hot dog, both accompa- products. You can also ask for one ucts) and your choice of either nied by a 32 oz fountain drink. of their original cookies or Jimmy a cookie or a bag of Frito-Lay Contrary to popular belief, you do chips. chips. not need a Sam’s Club membership Rating: Rating: card to eat lunch there. Royce Vaughn Rating: BY JORI GELBAUGH Focus Editor “[I started] working with the maintenance staff Centre freshman year, just cleaning up the Commons area and taking care of anything else that needs to be South Westnedge done. [The staff is] fun to hang around, so I don’t Culver’s mind helping them out and I get to move around Distance from PCHS: 1.0 miles a bit during the day. [Outside of school] I started Meal price: $5-10 riding horses about three years ago. I started riding Description: Culver’s offers a with my doctor, actually, because I had lyme disease multitude of burgers and salads, and so he took me out to his parent’s place and they along with their original custard had horses so I rode out there and I’ve always kind and concrete mixers instead of Arby’s Melody

of wanted to ride. I enjoyed it so much that this past Qdoba Romence Schuring the ordinary ice cream. Distance from PCHS: 0.9 miles Rating: year, I started volunteering out at True Vine Eques- Distance from PCHS: 1.4 miles Meal price: $4-8 trian Center in Lawton and we help special needs Meal price: $8-10 Description: Arby’s offers a variety of Shaver kids learn how to ride. It’s cool how horses can be Description: Enjoy a burrito, nachos, sandwiches, desserts and sides. These healing [because] like I said, I have lyme disease and quesadilla or chips and queso at this include their signature curly fries. I had been sick, and it was really healing for me to be mexican grill. Accompany your meal They sell Pepsi products as well as on horses. I’d like to have a place of my own that has with a CocaCola product and brownie. their popular shakes and turnovers. a few [horses] where I can bring kids out and then Rating: Background created by Mark Williams Rating: help [them] ride.” 10 focus March 18, 2016 Sophomore film phenom Teachers share their history BY CARLY FLECK AND MARK WILLIAMS headed to Staff Writers Students may not realize that many of the staff here have more to their story than it seems. Interlochen Though it’s crazy to picture their lives before BY OLIVIA OLES teaching, many teachers have had past experiences View Editor that you may not expect. For example, Athletic Director Joe Wallace was Despite his age, sophomore Nathan Ginter has immensely involved with theater and sports in high taken on the world of producing and taught himself school and college. how to write, cut and publish short films. He has “My last two years of highschool, I was actually created a variety of pieces from comedic claymation acting in the plays. My senior year I was Harry the films about student procrastination to documenta- Horse in the musical, ‘Guys and Dolls,’” Wallace said. ries about his world travels to Bali. However, Wallace decided to pursue his athletic “I really love making art, and film seems like the talents after high school and became the football ultimate art form,” Ginter said. “It combines writing, coach at Grand Valley State University. Fortunately music and visuals to create something that is totally for the Mustangs, his passion for athletics led him to unique and I find that really exciting.” Central, but he’ll always be a theater nerd at heart. Ginter’s Wallace isn’t the only teacher who has had an artistry has not interesting job prior to working at Portage Central. gone unno- English teacher Theresa Mills broadcasted radio ticed. He was news overnight for WOOD radio station. accepted into “I was responsible for taking stories off the AP the prestigious wire, rewriting them, and putting them in some kind Interlochen Cen- of logical order. I would deliver these every hour, on ter of the Arts the hour,” Mills said. The job opportunity was introduced to her after near Traverse Courtesy of Joe Wallace City for the she started out as an editor for a newsletter. She got the job offer, went for an interview and was basically remainder of Break a Leg: Athletic director Joe Wallace plays the role of Coach Bolton in a production of “High his high school hired on the spot. Mills was always busy making School Musical” at the high school where he used to teach. career where he calls to fire stations, police stations, and to other will continue to communities for information that might have been study filmmak- newsworthy. The long nightly hours ended this part “If we weren’t doing household chores, then “It’s basically buying your friends. You do it for of Mills’ career and set her towards teaching. we were working on the farm. I got paid to pick fun, and you do it for a network. On the flip side, I ing and motion Courtesy of Nathan Ginter picture arts. “I miss the fast pace of putting something asparagus and corn. It was hard work,” Mazei said. “I don’t hang out with any of those people anymore,” Ginter’s process for producing varies depending together, but I don’t miss the hours,” Mills said. “It put myself through college, I was a server for a long Wytko said. on the project. The production of a short film can wasn’t family oriented.” time at Red Lobster. That taught me a lot of patience. When asked about his fraternity activities, Wytko take anywhere from a few days to a few months. His Few students know the obstacles that Spanish People can be very rude, but it’s what I had to do.” was rather vague. “I’ll let your mind wander on that inspiration comes from things he observes around teacher Janice Mazei had to go through to become While some teachers had interesting past jobs, one,” Wytko said. him. a teacher. Growing up, Mazei lived on numerous others participated in unique past activities; phys- All of the staff’s past experiences contributed to “In most of my movies I try to convey that things farms in Delton with a family of eight children. The ics teacher and track coach Dan Wytko was in a making them who they are today. From fraternities which are [perceived as] dark or stressful can be little money that was earned from the farm wasn’t fraternity called “Sigma Phi Epsilon,” or “Sig Eps,” at to acting, these teachers share one common thing: funny too,” Ginter said. enough to put herself through college. Western Michigan University. the drive to educate students at Portage Central. He also has a passion for taking photos. There are pictures in his collections of lavish landscapes to pictures edited with spray paint. Ginter appreci- ates that in a picture there is a focus on one subject New forensics coaching brings success frozen in time as opposed to a film where the focus is more broad. BY NOLAN CARANCI He has won awards from multiple film festivals Staff Writer including “Best Documentary” at Interlochen’s In- ternational Future of Cinema and “Best Film, Judges Recent coaching changes for the Portage Central and Audience Choice” awards for the fourth time at forensics team include the addition of English the Kalamazoo Teen Film Festival. He recently was teacher Ashley Bowen as an assistant coach. Bowen asked to show one of his films at the Kalamazoo was a former English teacher at Portage Northern Institute of Arts for the Best of the Fest film festival High School, as well as a forensics coach there. In that ended with a question and answer session with fact, Bowen received MSCI’s prestigious award of other filmmakers. For his published photography, being named “Forensics Coach of the Year.” he has had his own show in the local Art Hop. He The forensics team consists of 70 students. Along with those students is the “staff of seven highly has also earned 2nd place for a digital photography Shawna Huang/STAMPEDE qualified individuals,” according to head coach piece at Kalamazoo Valley Community College’s New Anticipation: Finalists in Informative at the Feb. 12 invitational anxiously await awards. Media Showcase, and has been invited to exhibit his Theresa Mills. work at Western Michigan University. “All of the coaches are volunteering their time impromptu and extemp coach. tational. The team took first place overall as a team, Sophomore John Hart was an actor in “Trumped,” and talent to helping this team,” Mills said. “We are According to Bowen, forensics is a very valuable and many students received individual awards. one of Ginter’s comedic films about our election sea- blessed to have so much talent helping us get ready activity and the best thing you can do in high school. “I thought [our success] was incredible,” Mills son. “It’s really fun to be able to connect with your for the competitive season.” Bowen coached Northern to win in back-to-back said. “It was fun to kick butt.” friends and participate in films,” Hart said. “It was nice This season’s coaching line up consists of Tyler state championships. Despite this success, however, the team still feels because there wasn’t a script so we could improv Baas, the multiple coach; Dan Mills, the broadcasting “I am an assistant to the Queen,” said Bowen. “I they have work to do to improve. and have a good time.” and poetry coach; Ashley Bowen, the prose, prose told Mrs. Mills at the beginning of the year I will do “We’re going to work on more distinct charac- He hopes in the future to continue his passion in 9/10 and oratory 9/10 coach; Angela McMillan, the anything to help her and to be involved, and I mean terization,” said senior Riley Lentz, a member of the college and transform it into a profession. To watch sales, informative and oratory coach; Alec Olweean, that.” multiple, “Jumanji.” some of Ginter’s work, find him on YouTube or at the duo coach; Kaghen Miller, the storytelling and The most recent tournament was held last Satur- The team’s next tournament is tomorrow in www.nathanginter.com. dramatic interpretation coach; and Theresa Mills, the day, Feb. 12, at Portage Northern’s Menchinger Invi- Holland. March 18, 2016 vibe 11 from Reviews the Stampede Being exclusive to a singular ‘Fire Emblem: Fates’ platform can benefit games BY DAKOTAH LILLY changes series’ destiny Vibe Editor “Fire Emblem: Fates” is the “XCOM” is a turn-based tactical science fiction series developed latest entry of back in 1994. More recently in 2012, it received a reboot by the name a turn-based of “XCOM: Enemy Unknown” and released on almost every platform out tactics series set there. From PC to iOS and Android, the developers managed to make in a fantasy world, the experience work on any device someone could own, and while that’s which decided to certainly something to be praised, it’s also something developers need take the Pokemon to be mindful of when crafting their games. Every device has a limit to route of releases. what it can do, given its hardware, and the limitations of these devices “Fates” is split into three parts, the PHOTO COURTESY OF KOTAKU can force developers to sacrifice parts of the experience to make their first choices being Birthright and Conquest. It touts that each of these games possible. But this doesn’t have to be the case. entries is a game in itself, offering more content than previous games, From a consumer mindset, the idea of exclusive games is nothing unfortunately as a result the storylines aren’t as detailed or well done as but bad, as it forces those who don’t own a certain device to have no Enemy Unknown: “XCOM 2” turns the tables on the war against the previous entries in the series. way of playing the game, and by extension supporting that developer aliens. They’ve taken over Earth, it’s the player’s job to take it back. What really stands out is the third path, Revelation. Featuring a story to make more games in the future. Unfortunately, the industry as it is that’s actually intriguing, and a difficulty level higher than the other today is chock full of them, from the PS4’s “BloodBorne,” the Xbox’s “Halo” Firaxis alongside the launch of “XCOM 2.” paths, Revelation really brings “Fates” closer to the Fire Emblem experi- series, or the Wii U’s “Bayonetta 2” whose previous entry was on both PS3 The game itself weighs in at 50 gigabytes (GB), and the total space ence than the others. Regardless of the path itself it offers the same and Xbox 360. Every console has their lineup of their own special games of all the tools and various textures and models released to modders to gameplay mechanics throughout, anyone who picks up “Fates” is get- that can’t be played anywhere else, and while unfortunate for the indus- create for the game doubles the size of the install. Mods were released ting an enjoyable tactics game. A solid soundtrack helps tie everything try as a whole, there is a certain upside to them. before the game even came out, and hundreds came out within just a together, and while the graphics are a bit gnarly, the 2D sprites and art Granted, this isn’t the typical angle being portrayed when most men- week of release, with the current grand total being over 1,000 different make up for it. The great writing helps flesh out characters, and replay- tion the good that exclusives do, as most of the arguments talk about mods available for free download and install. By combining them in dif- ability is very high. It’s worth picking up without a doubt. how it makes the console in question more attractive to potential buyers ferent ways and customizing them with their built-in settings, the player if they can only get certain experiences on a specific one, or that it some- can make several thousands of different experiences that change how -REVIEWED BY DAKOTAH LILLY how helps build a reputation for the series. While that’s true to some ex- the game plays and make it replayable hundreds of times over for hours tent, again see the Halo games for that particular lesson, there’s one that on end. It adds a new life to the game that might not have existed oth- you don’t see often, simply because often times it’s just not true when erwise without a crazy amount of expansions with tons of content, and it’s brought up. The idea that, because of a game being exclusive to a considering how few games come out with these options available, it’s ‘London Has Fallen’ is platform, it can actually be significantly improved upon, thanks to vari- fantastic to see it in a PC-centric title here. ous factors, and that brings us to “XCOM 2,” the sequel to the hit reboot, Boasting a general improvement on the series overall, taking a bold generic but enjoyable exclusively available on PC. new direction in the series’ story, and adding a new system for replay- “XCOM 2” has greatly increased graphics compared to the first, and ability to skyrocket through a reliable modding infrastructure, “XCOM 2” “London Has Fallen,”directed by Babak overhauls the story and gameplay mechanics in a big way. It puts every is leaps and bounds ahead of anything released in recent memory, and Najafi, is the sequel to the 2013 film “Olym- match on a turn-timer so players have to rush to the objective or fail the is a very positive development. Thanks to being only on PC, it was able pus Has Fallen.” The basis of this action mission. Revamping the entirety of how the game functions, as well as to release relatively smoothly with a vast amount of changes and few movie is that President Benjamin Asher, generally improving the title overall, this second entry could have easily issues, while also being released in a fair amount of time and no delays. played by Aaron Eckhart, is attending a been done on consoles with those aspects in tact, albeit likely reduced It’s hard to not see this as anything but evidence of the benefits of being funeral for a prominent leader with several in their difficulty to better suit the console audience as well as cutting on one platform, but be warned. This kind of practice only benefits the other world powers when havoc breaks down on features to reduce the cost and time of development. However, game when it’s done to genuinely improve the title, as opposed to sim- loose. what couldn’t have been done is the amazing mod effort put forth by ply the developer getting paid to only release on one platform. Several world leaders are killed by bombs and undercover terrorists. While chaos and panic spread through the fu- neral attendees, Banning, played by Ge- Young entrepreneurs are pursuing rard Butler and President Asher manage to escape from immediate danger. PHOTO COURTESY OF IMDB The movie is essentially Banning and President Asher trying to sur- vive the terrorist attack and contact their offices in the USA while all YouTube careers as full-time jobs forms of communication are down. Gerard Butler is spectacular through- BY GABE PEDRAZA out the entirety of this film. Not only did he act well, he made his charac- Staff Writer ter seem likable and had great chemistry with Eckhart. If you’ve seen any action flick before, you’ll be able to know how it YouTube’s come a long way from the days of grainy vlogs and lip plays out within the first 20 minutes. The plot is predictable and lacked syncs on built-in desktop webcams. From its scrappy beginnings in 2005, any element of a surprise or twist. It almost seemed as though the mak- the platform has grown into a launching pad for bona fide Internet ce- ers of this movie wanted every scene to be as generic as possible. The lebrities. An absolutely staggering amount of successful full-time YouTu- Stacked Up: Achievement Hunter, Linus Tech Tips and Polaris are only saving grace for these scenes was the special effects work which did bers create and broadcast videos to audiences that are often fanatically all examples of groups putting out high quality content for a living. a great job of making every explosion look real and intense. loyal, and to many on the outside, that stature seems tantalizingly within Despite seeming like it was just another action movie, “London Has reach. regular, episodic format that demands the same attention as a full-time Fallen” was indeed entertaining. Even though the audience knew what There are plenty of reasons YouTube has become the platform of job. But can maintaining a YouTube channel really become a full-time was going to happen throughout the film, “London Has Fallen” was still choice for many would-be Internet entrepreneurs. Not only is it free, but career and help sustain a comfortable lifestyle based off advertisements exciting and enjoyable to watch. it also has a lovably DIY heritage of people sharing everything from their alone? Many YouTubers lately have been having issues in terms of being hobbies and daily experiences to videos of their beloved cats. able to generate ad revenue, as well as issues with YouTube itself. -REVIEWED BY KELSEE HA Whether it is unknown artists making their debut to the world or Having a YouTube career means being a self-employed registered gamers streaming their content to millions of subscribers, YouTube has business and dedicating most of your time to it every day. Like any ca- average provided a way for people to create a career out of thin air. reer, the life of a full-time YouTuber is not for everyone, and it requires a Ratings Key As more common as creative ideas and popular videos circulate the passion for making good work and a willingness to persevere through web with YouTube as their source, bringing massive amounts of atten- discouragement. terrible very good tion to creators overnight. But for those who see some success beyond Although working long hours are required to bring food to the table the typical fifteen minutes of fame and especially those who partner in many cases for smaller video creators, the fact that so many people very bad incredible with advertisers, this attention creates a pressure for consistency and a can make a living doing what they’re passionate about is a great thing. 12 vibe March 18, 2016 Family empires capitalize on fame for fortune

The Kardashians and the Robertsons are two of the biggest names in reality television. However, the differences in these families’ rise to fame could not be more different. While the Robertsons have gained their success through high morals and strong family values, the Kardashians have taken more of a risqué route when it comes to their fame. Either way, both of these families know how to capitalize on their fame to generate not just Instagram likes, but more money than you could ever imagine.

BY LUCY FORSTER Kardashians Editor-in-Chief Robertsons

Created By Lucy Forster Created By Lucy Forster Net Worth: $207 million Net Worth: $82 million All the Kardashians’ job titles could consist of two words: TV personality. However, this family knows Since 2012, the Robertson family has captivated TV viewers with their beards on their A&E show, “Duck how to capitalize on fame. The fame began with patriarch Robert Kardashian, when he joined the lawyer Dynasty”. Phil Robertson began making duck calls in 1972, and, along with his son Willie, he has turned the “dream team” for OJ Simpson in 1994. From then on, the Kardashians continued to build their brand, with- Duck Commander brand into a multimillion dollar company. Duck Commander also makes duck-hunting out any real discernible skill or talent. accessories, while deer-hunting merchandise is produced under the name Buck Commander. The real pivotal moment that changed the lives of the Kardashians was in 2007, when Kim’s sex tape The company is family-run, with Phil’s son Willie as the CEO, his other sons, Jase and Jep, along with his with Ray J was released. Soon following in 2007, “Keeping up with the Kardashians”, the reality TV show brother Si, leading the production team. Two important non-family employees, who are heavily featured on that captures the everyday drama of the Kardashian clan, debuted. From this point on, “momager” Kris “Duck Dynasty”, are Justin Martin and John Godwin. Before “Duck Dynasty”, the Robertson family and their Jenner has done everything in her power to put her kids in the spotlight. Nowadays, it’s hard to go through business was portrayed on the Outdoor Channel, in the show “Duck Commander”. The Robertsons have the day without hearing about a Kardashian, including Kendall Jenner, the international supermodel, Kylie achieved fame, success and millionaire status through their products, endorsements and Christian beliefs. Jenner, the social media mongol, and Caitlyn Jenner, woman of the year. As a company, Duck Commander purchased the name rights to college football’s Independence Bowl, Kim, Kourtney and Khloe have embarked on many ventures to build their name and bank accounts. The now the Duck Commander Independence Bowl, as well as the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series known as the three sisters, both alone and as a trio, have been a part of numerous campaigns and endorsements, such Duck Commander 500. as Skechers Shape Ups, OPI Nail Polish, QuickTrim, Midori liqueur, Shoedazzle, Carl’s Jr. and Beach Bunny Because of the fame achieved from “Duck Dynasty”, the Robertsons have been able to “brand” their fam- Swimwear, just to name a few. It’s no secret that Kim is the most well known of the three Kardashian sisters. ily by putting phrases and funny sayings from the show on apparel. Phrases such as “happy happy happy”, Alone, Kim has released seven fragrances, a video game app centered around her life and lollipops (now “faith, family, ducks” and “fear the beard” have graced t-shirts and hats. The Robertsons have capitalized on off the market). Together, the three sisters have broken into the fashion world and beauty world with the the things viewers love from the show to make more money. In 2013, Walmart’s best selling apparel for men Kardashian Kollection at Sears, as well as their clothing store, DASH. Their beauty line, Kardashian Beauty and women was “Duck Dynasty” t-shirts. The family has collectively written ten books. Sadie Robertson, includes hair care, makeup and hair accessories. Willie’s daughter, was a celebrity contestant on season 19 of Dancing with the Stars. The Kardashians are not only TV personalities and celebrities, but they are entrepreneurs. As a family, As a whole, the Robertson family has been able to use their Christian faith to build a larger industry. The they have jumped into nearly every endorsement or business thrown at them. Not only has this made Robertsons have written devotional books, and they pray at the end of every episode of Duck Dynasty to them millionaires, but it has launched them to the top of the socialite tower. emphasize their overall message of faith rather than business. brings back memories from childhood

BY LUCY FORSTER and Stephanie Tanner. But, have no fear: had a mind for who would be watching shade on Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen in Editor-in-Chief Uncle Jesse makes multiple appearances, the show. the first episode. along with some of the old favorites, The addition of new characters to the Secondly, other TV shows, such as including Danny Tanner, Joey Gladstone, show also allowed for growth within the “Dancing with the Stars” and “The View”, Have Mercy! If you don’t have Netflix, Aunt Becky and the Katsopolis twins. audience. No longer is Kimmy Gibbler are heavily alluded to considering Can- then now is the time to splurge, because Oh, and let’s not forget heartthrob Steve the only comic relief, but her husband dace Cameron Bure, who plays DJ, is a childhood dreams have officially come is back as one of the main characters. Fernando adds for more craziness and part of both of those. true. “Full House” has been brought back However, Michelle Tanner makes no ap- comedy. “Fuller House” is the perfect show to re- as “Fuller House”, a Netflix original series. House” is the reincarnation of the ‘90s. pearance. The best part about Fuller House is the live your childhood. If I had to rate “Fuller “Fuller House” premiered its first season, “Fuller House” is mainly based upon Netflix did an amazing job transition- constant allusions to other projects and House” solely based on quality and compiled of 13 episodes, exclusively to the lives of DJ Tanner and her three sons, ing this show from the ‘90s audience to people. First, we all know why Michelle acting, I might give it a two out of five, Netflix on Feb. 26. This show is more than Jackson, Max and Tommy as well as Kim- today’s audience. With more allusions to is not a part of the show, however, this but, because I am nothing but biased by just another Netflix original series. “Fuller my Gibbler and her daughter Ramona sex and drinking, the creators definitely did not prevent the cast from throwing nostalgia I give it a six out of five. March 18, 2016 sports 13 Latora’s season ends early with knee injury Prospects of a state wrestling title dashed by a torn meniscus

BY MARK WILLIAMS Staff Writer

Junior Dante Latora’s hopes for a deep tournament run were dashed earlier this month when he blew out his knee at the individual state wrestling championships. Latora entered the weekend with a 40-3 record and quickly defeated his first round opponent. Unfortunately he blew his knee out in a match he was deter- mined to finish. Latora said his opponent was cranking on his knee until it popped. Latora kept going until the fourth time he felt it pop, and that’s when he knew his season was over. Aidan Pierobon, Latora’s opponent, won the match with a score of 4-3. Piero- bon is from Rochester Hills with a record of 47-4. He ended up placing 3rd overall in the state. Latora now claims a record of 41-4. The matches that he lost at the individual state championship following his knee injury did not affect his record and were recorded as “Injury Default”. Due to his knee blowout, there are many setbacks he has to deal with. Latora feels he is coping with his knee fairly well. “It’s the way of the sport, always having to fight through adversity,” he said. Latora will be going to a doctor in order to find out whether or not his knee will need an operation. Latora hopefully expects to be recovered before nationals and says, “I plan to come back better than ever and win a state title.” “Dante is a very talented athlete who has set some pretty high goals,” head coach Ken Haughn said. Latora is not the only one in his family to have wrestled. Latora is a part of a legacy of accomplished wrestlers. Latora’s grandfather, Carl K Latora, was a three time mac champion in college. His father, Tony Latora, won two state titles along- side his uncle, Andy Latora. His brothers, Angelo and Dominic, were also deeply Kelsee Ha/STAMPEDE involved. Angelo won two state titles and Dominic was a two-time state finalist Going the Distance: Latora surpasses his opponent’s skill at Individual Districts (above); Referee announces Latora’s win (bot- and a three-time placer. tom right); Latora thanks family and friends for constant support following his season ending knee injury (bottom left). Latora said he trains intensely with the wrestling team in order to achieve his personal goal of state champion. “I’ve probably trained about a good 15 to 20 hours a week and lose a good 15 to 20 pounds a week,” Latora said. Coach Haughn goes on to explain the training, saying “Our practices are quite intense.” The wrestlers begin the season by focusing on their technique and gradu- ally increase the intensity of the practice as the year goes on. Being in a family of wrestlers, Latora has to live up to the expectations and work with the comparisons of his family. Haughn has worked with both of Latora’s older brothers and his uncle. Comparing Dante to the rest of the Latora brothers, Haughn sayid“Dante wrestles with a more ‘wide open’ style with a wide range of techniques at his disposal.” With his personal goal of winning a state title, Latora receives full support from his family, friends and coaches. “I fully expect Dante to be in the running for a state title this year.” Haughn said. “He comes from a strong wrestling family and wrestles all year long. His dedication Courtesy of Dante Latora Kelsee Ha/STAMPEDE to the sport in the off-season is one of the main reasons he has had the success he’s had.” Analyzing stats is the way to go with March Madness brackets

BY THEO KIZER eteers. hot a team is, one bad matchup can teams play and should be at least a little confident Staff Writer First, find out which teams have call for a long night and possibly an making their own selections. had the most success rebounding and upset. This year’s bracket doesn’t seem to have any shooting of late. Defense does win No matter how educated one is misplaced contenders outside of the top five seeds, Putting together the perfect March Madness championships, however the team on the topic of college basketball, unlike last year, when under-seeded Michigan State bracket can be one of the most stressful things one with the most points wins, and when they can’t have a great bracket (a seven seed) snuck their way into the Final Four. does in his or her life. a team is consistently making shots, without a little luck. Every few picks Nobody can know for sure but it’s a safe bet that Whether they are betting money on their bracket creating second chance opportunities, it is a good idea to take a leap of the final four will contain teams seeded at least five or not, there is something so demoralizing about the and cleaning up the boards on both faith and use more “unorthodox’ or lower. Vegas has Kansas, North Carolina, and idea of getting a pick wrong. Though in reality, to ends, they will have the advantage. methods. Such methods include, Michigan state with the best odds to win it all at 5:1 win one’s bracket pool they really only need to pick When making selections it is also a choosing the team with the most and four seeded Kentucky right behind them at 12:1. the last three or four rounds accurately. good idea to look at certain matchups Courtesy of NCAA appealing mascot, having a young Who knows, those teams might very well be the the The traditional way to complete a bracket is to on the floor. How does one team size up child help you, going against your gut last four standing. fill it all out at once. However some people who are against its opponent? Put each team’s strengths instinct, or simply flipping a coin to decide a game. According to Duke math professor Jonathan in private or friendly pools, agree to pick round by up against each other and figure out which one Be careful though, once the second and third week- Mattingly, the odds of filling out a perfect bracket round. Since the tournament began yesterday and ultimately exposes the other’s weakness. Basketball end come around picking blindly might not be the are one in 2.4 trillion, so good luck basketball fans, all “normal brackets” are locked in, these next few is a game of matchups and no matter how good or best decision. By then, most people have seen most and happy March Madness. tips are only useful to the round by round brack- 14 sports March 18, 2016 Athletes of the Month

Violet Nickolae Daniel Kuchenbuch Competitive Cheer Alpine Ski

Age: 18 Age: 18 Grade: 12 Grade: 12 Cheered For: 4 years Skied For: 16 years Courtesy of Mikayla Larson Pyramid Power: (From left to right) Violet Nickolae, Jenna MacKellar, and Emily Quertermus are Biggest accomplishment: be- Raced for: 14 years hoisted up in the air at a recent cheerleading tournament. coming a varsity cheer captain Biggest accomplishment: Additional quote: “It is re- Finished 10th in regionals in warding after working hard slalom Cheer team pulls for four years and becoming a Additional quote: “There are captain.” no captains but I’d consider through a tough season myself a leader on the team.”

BY ALYSON KOH competitions this year, even with the many injuries,” Staff Writer Eichsteadt said. “It has put us back, but they come back stronger. In all my years of coaching combined, After 14 weeks of layouts, standing tucks, and I’ve never had this many injuries.” Vote for next issue’s Athletes stunts, the Varsity Competitive Cheerleading team is With nine injuries in one season, there have been proud of their achievements and improvement they four concussions, one broken nose, two broken have made. Not only have they achieved their goal hands, one broken back, and something torn in the of breaking 700 more than five times at the SMAC knee; competitive cheer is a dangerous sport. It’s of the Month on Twitter! (Southwest Michigan Athletic Conference) competi- a common joke among the cheer team to joke that tions, but they received 9th place in Districts on the they must’ve dropped one too many spirit sticks in 19th of February. According to senior Courtney Orr, the past to receive such ‘bad luck’, referring to the @CentralStampede this is a huge victory. popular superstition from the “Bring it On” film series. “Our realistic aim is to go into Districts to beat our Even with the many injuries on the team, Orr and own standings in the years before,” Orr said. “That’s her stunt group has been able to accomplish many the mindset we’re in.” advanced stunts, including the stunt group hiccup Districts were definitely a big step-up according heel stretch that was nailed at the beginning of the to Orr, but the Cheer team’s biggest competition this season. year were the meets with Portage Northern. “It starts on one leg, jumps up in a split and ends “This year we came close but lost. Northern is the on the other leg. My stunt group and I have worked biggest rival because we’re both competing for who from sideline to competitive and we finally nailed it can qualify to go to SMAC meets,” Coach Katie Eich- which was a big accomplishment!” Orr said. steadt said. Part of her stunt group, sophomore Cristina Pos- GENERAL STUDIES GENERAL The Cheer team were also topped by the Grand tula reflects on the team goals that were met at the . GETTING Rapids school teams in Districts, but Eichsteadt is end of the season. more than proud of how the girls have done in the “Though I had a concussion halfway through the past competitions. Her favorite parts of the season season, we as a team broke 700 many times, 220 in HER START are the competitions and watching the girls compete. first round and 300 in the third, and we kept working K MADALYNNE “They have done awesome! We have won five on being cleaner in our movements,” Postula said. AT VALLEY. Mustang Meal Deal! $5.00 8-inch sub, chips and fountain drink!

7886 Oakland Drive We cater (Corner of open Oakland and Centre. Next to houses! Full City Cafe!) www.kvcc.edu/worthit 11 a.m.-4 p.m. ... School days only! (Must show valid student ID) March 18, 2016 sports 15 Basketball team makes huge strides BY ZACH FRANKS Sports Editor team,” Bowditch added. As the team closed the season, they wanted to The men’s basketball season has came to a close, win the last quarter (5 games) with a record of 3-2 or and this year’s team shaped up to be much better better, and are beginning to prepare for the playoffs. than last years. With a final record of 16-7, the team The team is going to continue to focus on playing completed its goal of finishing the season strong together, and learning from their mistakes from and made a lengthy run in the district playoffs. teams they’ve already played. The team won more than twice as many games According to Bowditch, the team had high as they did last year, where they only managed to expectations for the playoffs. win six games. This can be attributed to several fac- “My mind is on nothing less than to get to the tors, according to the team’s leading scorer, junior district final,” Bowditch said in an interview before Austin McCullough. the playoffs had started. “ With these last five games “As a team we’ve really come together as a unit, I hope to win this side of the conference and beat and we’re really working hard at sharing the ball,” Benton Harbor.” McCullough said. “ We have more weapons on of- The team did just that, winning the conference fense and we’re really playing together on defense, with a record of 7-3 and winning three of their five and it’s allowed us to improve throughout the year.” last regular season games. Interestingly enough, this year’s team was com- They won their first two games in the district posed of almost all of the same players as last years playoffs, beating Niles 49-40 in the district opener team. The few seniors that left were replaced by a and Mattawan 49-34 in the district semifinals. They few juniors, but other than that it remained virtually then faced off against powerhouse Kalamazoo Cen- identical. Senior captain Dan Bowditch feels that the tral, where they managed to only lose by 15 points team’s camaraderie and chemistry have improved a in a final score of 65-50. This a big improvement from lot this year due to most of the guys having played last time they played each other, where Kalamazoo with each other “forever” as well as the new mem- Central won by a whopping 35 points. bers being a good fit for the team. “ We played our hearts out,” junior Raine Potts Sharwari Salvi/STAMPEDE “We’re all selfless and we all just have the same said. “I’m content with the way this season turned Down The Court: Junior Earnest R. Potts (left) helps carry the Mustangs to a win against crosstown goal to win, we don’t care about personally how out, and I’m proud of everyone on this team.” rival Portage Northern on Feb. 19. we’re doing, we just care about how we’re doing as a Men’s swimming and diving makes a splash

BY KYLE PALMER a time requirement for their own particular race. theirs. We basically all go to compete individually, Liu. Staff Writer Several athletes represented our school at the state but we all support each other as a team, for every- Allen believes that the season ended very well. meet. one who makes it,” said Allen. He thinks that everyone ended happy, and the team Freshman Owen Miller did very well at the state The freshman group of athletes this year per- gained a lot of experience from the state meet, so Portage Central men’s swimming and diving meet. He placed 3rd in the 500 freestyle for the formed very well this year, according to freshman they know what to expect for next year. is celebrating a great season. With many student entire state, earning All State honors in two events. Jack Liu. He thinks that the next few years will be “I would say it was a good end to our season athletes performing well, the team finished second Senior Chris Allen thinks that this is a great accom- very interesting as they develop in swimming, and because it ended with everyone happy. They either at the SMAC Conference meet, and did very well at plishment, especially for a freshman. that the future of Mustang swimming and diving will learned from the experience or they saw what the the state meet. Even though these athletes competed individu- be very interesting. state meet was really like, and they saw what really Many athletes helped contribute to the great ally, they still will worked as a team. They did this by “The team is performing pretty good, the atmo- good competition was. They also saw that even season. The team had a very strong freshman group. supporting each other and cheering each other on. sphere’s good and everyone is doing pretty well. We though we were there to compete and do our best, Many athletes performed well enough to earn state “For everyone who make the state cuts in the have a pretty solid freshman group this year,” said we were also there to have fun,” Allen said. cuts, meaning that they met the requirements to relay we all go, but most of us are really kind of com- race at the state meet. peting individually. I think all of the freshmen have Once the regular season was over, individual at least one individual cut, I have my three, a junior members of the team had the opportunity to go to has one, and a couple of other seniors are making the state meet. In order to qualify that had to meet

Alex Beckman/STAMPEDE In The Lane: Senior Chris Allen swims butterfly during the dual meet between Mattawan and Portage Central. 16 stampede March 18, 2016

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