FLINT WATER CRISIS:

K N I G H T L I F E THOUSANDS DEVASTATED BY VoL 56, ISSUE 3 FEBRUARY 2016 KKALAMAZOO, MICHIGANL LEAD CONTAMINATED WATER ClaytonBarker The city of Flint, Michigan, once home to a booming auto industry is now plagued with poisoned water. Unprecedented levels of lead in Flint’s water have spread through the city. Business Finance teacher Atiba Ward who was born and raised in Flint and still has family living there said, “They think it’s pretty bad [Ward’s family]. They’re getting skin issues,” Ward continued, “It’s just a huge inconvenience to pay the bill and not have adequate water come out of the faucet.” Flint decided to switch water sources, leaving Detroit’s fresh Lake Huron water and instead use water from the Flint River, an economical advantage saving $19 million in 8 years, a small amount of money considering the death of ten people and physical damage to thousands. The people of Flint slowly started realizing their water was poisonous, though city officials knew long before that the water was indeed toxic. Even though government officials knew how toxic the water was, it was not mentioned to the public. Flint had a chance to change their water and switch back over to Detroit’s Lake Huron water. Detroit was willing to exempt Flint from paying a 4 million dollar re-signup fee; however, Flint decided not to switch back to their old water source. On September 2nd, 2015, Virginia Tech Professor Marc Edwards declared that the water was so corrosive it was causing lead to seep into the water saying, “On a scientific basis, Flint river water leaches more lead from plumbing than does Detroit water.” SEE FLINT PAGE 8 LOY NORRIX MOURNS THE LOSS OF SENIOR TEMETRION HEGLER JaidynKynaston TEMETRION S. HEGLER 6/15/1998 – 1/6/2016 Kalamazoo Resident and Loy Norrix planned to attend Michigan State in hopes senior Temetrion Hegler was shot and of becoming an athletic trainer. killed by his step-grandfather Bruce Embry His best friends Jada Mitchell, Sarral on January 6th in his residence. He was 17. Shears and Brinda Creagan describe him Temetrion was born on June 15th, 1998 in as being an amazing person that was very Kalamazoo, Michigan. He is survived by his supportive to people who were struggling. primary guardian and grandmother Iqullia Jada said, “[Temetrion was] sweet, Hegler, his mother, Shatippia Hegler, caring, and wanted the best for people.” his father, Asteem Glass, as well as seven Temetrion’s impact didn’t end with siblings. close friends and family though. Many At the vigil held for both Temetrion knew Temetrion and appreciated his sense Hegler and Deshontae Ellis, (a senior of humor and kind heart. Remembering the from Kalamazoo Central who passed away names of most of his classmates, Temetrion the first week of January) Temetrion’s was the first to wave and say hello to those grandmother described Temetrion as an he recognized passing in the halls of Loy innocent kid, with a pure heart and soul. Norrix. This simple yet often overlooked This was echoed by her tears as she thanked gesture displayed his benevolence. those who planned and coordinated the Temetrion’s funeral was held at the 2nd vigil. Baptist Church on N. Rose, Kalamazoo, MI, Temetrion loved to play football and 49007.

OVERCOMING GRIEF: KALAMAZOO TEENS GRIEVE WHILE STRIVING TO STAY POSITIVE Dealing with grief and sadness is one of to be angry at almost anything. They the most difficult obstacles one needs can be angry towards family, friends, to overcome in order to move on with acquaintances, themselves, and even living. towards God. A person will also notice This is the fifth death of a classmate that they are getting angry at others that the Loy Norrix seniors have or themselves over the smallest things experienced. Having a class experience such as what people say. five deaths in such a short period Bargaining consists of a person is difficult, and it doesn’t come as a saying that they would trade in surprise that people are remembering something in order to bring the past friends who have died. deceased back to life. Often people will “It’s shocking knowing that commit their life to doing something there are so many students who have significant and expect that one day they experienced all this death. I just can’t will wake up and have their loved one imagine how much pain this group of back as a reward. During this stage individuals are going through,” Loy people will seek out all sorts of personal Norrix counselor Sheryl Scott said. faults and use that to bring themselves According to Psychologist Elisabeth down. Kubler-Ross, there are five stages of After focusing on the past through grief that one goes through on the bargaining, attention quickly shifts road to acceptance: denial, anger, back to the present and depression bargaining, depression and acceptance. sets in. Depression is one of the Denial consists of one not being most difficult stages of grief for able to believe that the event has one to overcome. Depression is an Temetrion Hegler DeShontae Ellis actually happened. People who are overwhelming feeling of loneliness, suffering through denial often mentally helplessness and wondering about the JonathanLo remember and mourn both students Recently the Kalamazoo on January 10th, 2016. Even though shut down and are unable to process purpose of life. During this stage it is Community lost two students, days have gone by since these tragic the tragedy. Some people can show a crucial to get someone the help they Temetrion Hegler and DeShontae deaths, there are many people still façade as if nothing happened, but this need. Ellis. There was a candlelight vigil to trying to cope with this heavy loss. is often due to the denial of a loved It’s important to acknowledge that one’s death. these stages of grief don’t come in any INFORMATION FROM PAGE 1 Denial is followed by violence specific order. One can experience and anger where a person lashes out. denial one moment and feel depression Loy Norrix students Grant Mitchell, Nick Luttrell, Max Link and Damarquay Norman to help donate water for Flint at the Kalamazoo administration building This anger can sometimes be directed the next. Often these stages will overlap on Howard Street, January 30th. Flint has been struggling with lead poisoned towards others. Someone going making it difficult for people to move water. Photo Credit / Clayton Barker through this stage of grief is expected on. SEE GRIEF PAGE 8 2 knightlifenews.com NEWS ISIS TERRORIST GROUP ATTACKS existing, man-made borders and to CaitlinCommissaris Imagine having a nice family dinner expand “Islam’s war,” into America at a restaurant downtown. Everyone is and Europe. They ultimately want to laughing and sharing things from their lead Muslims into an apocalyptic battle day, smiling and enjoying one another. against all non-believers. All of a sudden, BOOM, the moment is Many American citizens don’t think gone and men with machine guns and this group is something we should be bombs strapped to them barge through worried about in our daily lives. the doors, shooting people who are lying “I think it is really sad that this is helpless on the ground. This is what happening. However, it doesn’t really happened at six different venues in Paris scare me because it’s not a big enough on Friday, November 13, 2015. threat that I should worry about it in my personal life,” said senior Ethan There were 129 citizens in Paris, A militant of the Islamic State carrying their flag. This photo Leverton. France killed as a result of these attacks. comes from a propaganda video by ISIS. Along with the 129 people killed, 352 However, it is important to be aware of these occurrences. Many lives were injured. The most deadly of the 4.6 million Syrians are refugees, and 6.6 article, ‘ISIS Claims Responsibility’, have been lost due to these relentless attacks was at a concert hall where about million are displaced within Syria; half these acts of terrorism are just the “first attacks. The group will execute anyone 80 lives were lost. All of this damage is are children. of the storm”. who disagrees with their methods. said to be done by only 8 ISIS members. “I think we should accept these “The threat posed by the group According to the Independent This group, being relatively small and refugees because America is based on seems pretty small compared to the News Source, a four-year-old boy was inflicting such damage, is particularly helping those in need or struggling,” threat we hold over them. We have new brutally murdered a week after his frightening. said senior Ben Byrd. technology and ISIS is still hiding out father was killed for having been found The Islamic State of Iraq and Syria An article written by “The Atlantic”, in the desert,” said Byrd. guilty of a December attack on an ISIS (ISIS) has taken responsibility for the “df1Is France at War”, quotes President According to CNN Student News, checkpoint. The boy was strapped with Paris attacks. According to CNN, the Francois Hollande. “Terrorism will not there have been multiple attacks explosives that were attached in such group began as Al Qaeda and then destroy the republic because it is the linked to ISIS within the past month in a way that his organs would be blown rebranded itself two years later as ISIS. republic that will destroy terrorism.” multiple countries. In Bangladesh an apart. Since then the group has shown more According to the article, Hollande explosion killed one citizen and injured Violence has become such a brutality and become more effective at will be meeting with President Barack many more. In Lebanon a suicide detrimental part of society, and the controlling the territory it has seized in Obama and Russian President Vladimir bombing killed at least 40 people. In US is joining the fight against what Syria and Iraq. Putin to form a unified coalition against Egypt a suicide bombing killed 4 police is becoming a growing international The new issue posed due to this ISIS. officers. In Yemen two large cities were dilemma. violence is whether or not America However, Paris is not the only bombed, killing 25 people. In Turkey should allow refugees from these country we should be worried about. explosions killed more than 100 people. countries. According to World Vision, According to the New York Times The goal of ISIS is to replace kalamazoo acquires body cameras for police custody. Body cams are a simple members. The website also allows you said senior Megan Youngs whose MaxwellOfferman On January 11th, Jeff Hadley, the addition to ensure that a citizen isn’t to nominate officers for “Good Cop of mother is in the KDPS. chief of the Kalamazoo Department of deprived of their rights. the Month” and relay personal stories. A total of 170 body cams are Public Safety (KDPS), announced that Detroit, Grand Rapids, and many While this decision was popular in expected to be purchased by June, the department will be purchasing a more Michigan cities have begun Kalamazoo, body cams are still a hot with many arriving within the next total of 170 body cameras (cams) for utilizing body cameras in their public topic of debate. A common counter few months. Keep an eye out for them officers. safety divisions. KDPS has been field point is that body cams constant on KDPS officers along with some Body cams are small front-facing testing these devices since 2014, and recording may be worse for citizens. Kalamazoo Valley Enforcement officers. cameras meant to record activity at all the positive results have led to this With cameras, there will likely be little and community policing officers. times, thus offering an unbiased record progression. to no leniency for minor offenses since of an officer’s day, including any arrests Besides, if the officer isn’t doing officers will involuntarily have video they make. anything wrong, then why should they proof of incidents. This innovative surveillance be worried? Through an independent Additionally, officers lose privacy method has been in the media spotlight study by Lamberth Consulting, the while doing everyday activities like frequently as pressure for police to use KDPS was found guilty of racial talking with their partner or stopping them increases with repeated incidents profiling. Since then, the KDPS has for a meal. However, these are small of police brutality, such as the highly enforced that it has a good track record prices that KDPS is willing to pay in controversial deaths of Eric Garner, and promotes transparency in its order to ensure their officers are acting Tamir Rice, Freddie Gray, and many, operations. within the law. many others. Quite frequently, there is To combat negative views of The decision to acquire body cams missing information in police reports police, in September KDPS, along has been supported throughout the thereafter. with additional West Michigan police community. Although heavily debated, the departments, joined “The Good Cop” “It’s becoming a trend in decision to put body cams on police initiative out of Kalamazoo which the country. Anything that adds An example of a body camera used is far from unreasonable, with a promotes stories of positive police transparency [to a police department] in south Birmingham. encounters. Through TGC, residents is a good thing,” said government staggering one thousand people killed Photo Credit / West Midlands have shared photos of officers helping teacher Michael Wright. by police during 2015. Of those, 198 Police. were unarmed and 36 already in police build snowmen, playing sports, “It’s good that officers will always and otherwise assisting community be held accountable [for their actions],”

NEWS knightlifenews.com 3 KNIGHT LIFE STAFF POLICE BRUTALITY UNVEILED: HOW POLICE ABUSE THEIR POWER Audra Penny Print Editor-in-Chief then directed and enforced 9th, 2014 when 18 year old that were shot into groups of Carsten Strand the local police and firemen to Michael Brown was shot peaceful, unarmed protesters Web Editor-in-Chief attack the children with once and killed by officer Darren were not necessary. The news Luis Juarez Assistant Web Editor again, high-pressure fire hoses, Wilson. In Ferguson, Missouri, spread across the nation and Christian Baker (which can knock a person Brown, unarmed with his made the people who cared Assistant Photo Editor over, causing broken arms friend Dorian Johnson, were outraged. Clayton Barker or legs, short term or even aggressively confronted by As the news began to Opinion Editor permanent head injuries, eye officer Wilson with suspicion spread and reach all corners Sophia Boismier KendraCurtis injuries, etc) batons and police of the two previously robbing of our nation, more examples Layout Editor Throughout the years, dogs. a gas station. An altercation of police brutality broke out. Cindy Bravo ensued when Wilson began For instance, there was the Assistant Layout Editor police brutality has been up There was another for question as it has been a instance on the 18th of yelling vulgar words at the death of Eric Garner who Jordan Brown Social Network Team topic of debate. It’s difficult to February in 1965 where a two men and opened his door, was being restrained with an Caitlin Commissaris choose a winner to this debate non-violent civil rights activist hitting both Johnson and illegal choke hold and even Photo Editor especially when there are was killed after a night march Brown. In total, Brown was though he exclaimed multiple Kendra Curtis extremely different views on had been brutally split up by shot twice in the head and times, “I can’t breathe,” NY Social Network Team both sides. the Alabama State Troopers. four times in the abdomen police continued to tighten Abigail Farrer When students heard While the night march was and right arm. While it is hard their grasp around Garner’s Social Network Team about the marches and being broken up, civil rights to tell who was at fault in this neck, making the 43 year Jacob Heasley case, it was the beginning of old lose consciousness and Opinion Editor protests during the 1960-90’s activist, Jimmie Lee Jackson, fled with his mother and the social justice movement die. While Garner’s obesity, Ruby Hensley against segregation, students Copy Editor didn’t really learn about the grandfather. Police followed #BlackLivesMatter against chronic bronchial asthma Nora Hilgart-Griff police letting dogs attack them into a cafe where they police and the brutality that and cardiovascular disease Chief Copy Editor teenagers or how they beat physically assaulted the three. can accompany their power. were contributing factors, the Chris Hybels protesters nearly to death with When Jackson went to the aid Shortly after this illegal choke hold put all three Sports Editor the batons they carried. While of his mother and grandfather, occurrence, riots and protests together causing failure of Taylor Krupianik minorities have known about trooper James Fowler, an broke out throughout his heart and extreme loss of Graphics Editor the brutality of police for as Alabama State Trooper, shot Ferguson. While it’s breath. Jaidyn Kynaston Staff long as it’s been around, the him twice in the abdomen, understandable why the police There was also the showed resistance to the shooting of Tamir Rice, only Maggie Lager majority of our population is killing Jackson. Copy Editor just now starting to open their Now, almost 50 years rioters, the same resistance 12 years old, who was playing Zach Liddle eyes to the beatings, killings later, the same incidents was unnecessary when it came with a fake gun and was shot Social Network Team and the abuse of power our continue to happen. Media to the peaceful protests. The Max Link police officers are given to portrayal began on August gas bombs and rubber bullets SEE POLICE PAGE 6 Staff serve and protect. Jonathan Lo Since the early 1960s and Chief Copy Editor forward, there were many Arya Malmgren Copy Editor civil rights movements that Grace Marshall took place. Even though these News Editor movements included people Alexis Martin of multiple different races, Arts and Entertainment Editor religions and ethnicities, there Zach Mason was still violence that would Chief Copy Editor follow almost every single Maxwell Offerman Feature Editor time. On May 2nd of 1963, more Myeisha Prewitt Social Network Team than 700 black students from Makenna Sandt elementary to high school Assistant Business Manager protested racial segregation in Frankie Stevens Birmingham, Alabama. Many Business Manager of these kids were arrested, Dagnija Tomsons blasted with fire hoses, Copy Editor clubbed and beaten by officers Paul Vallier Sports Editor and attacked by police dogs. The next day, May 3rd, Rachel Zook Social Network Team 1963, countless more children Tisha Pankop began to march in protest Advisor of what occurred the day before. Eugene “Bull” Connor, commissioner of public safety,

Better gun control would logically No because I believe Do you think gun lower crime rates. However, the violence starts control will help NRA controls congress so much within someone’s curb violence? through campaign donations that heart and mindset, Why? people on the terrorist watch list not because of a can legally buy assault rifles. gun.

KKNIGHTSS SPEAK Senior Ahmed Younis Senior Alisabeth Shigwadja 4 knightlifenews.com OPINION POINT COUNTERPOINT OVERSATURATION: A SUPERHERO MOVIE ISSUE MARVEL: INNOVATORS IN THE 21ST CENTURY have a cameo in another’s I’m just going to come CarstenStrand JakeHeasley right out and say it: I no longer movie or they might share the Got an opinion? Disagree with something enjoy superhero movies. Yes, spotlight, with movies that we’ve said? Just want to be in the paper? it’s true. I believe the repetition have multiple lead roles. All Write us! these interconnected movies of Marvel and DC (Detective Direct Letters to: Comics) has gone way too far. aren’t great because they’re Loy Norrix Knight Life Movie making today superhero movies, they’re 606 E Kilgore has changed from making great because they’re fantastic Kalamazoo, MI 49001 meaningful films that movies...that just happen to have superheroes. OR positively affect the society Submit to Room K6 we live in to cash grabs for Marvel has created large studios like Disney and comedies like “Ant-Man,” OR Warner Bros. The general goofy action films like [email protected] “Guardians of the Galaxy,” population is still demanding GUIDELINES: movies that are frankly, wastes even emotional character • 250 words or less of time. Why? The answer is dramas like “X-Men: First • Must contain author’s name, 3rd simple: Money. Money drives Class.” However, most of period & ID number everything, and the movie Photo Illustration: Eryka Swank these movies are part of a industry is no exception. made seven X-Men movies, I’m just going to come series, some of which have RIGHT TO WITHHOLD: These movie studios are or rebooted the Spider-Man right out and say it: Marvel been running since the early Guest columns and personal opinion trying to make as much money franchise THREE TIMES is the best movie studio of 2000s. Surely after almost 15 pieces may be withheld if the piece years, “X-Men” would begin contains libel or obscenities, disrupts the as they can with poorly-made, (the next reboot is coming in the 21st century. This sounds school environment, invades the privacy quickly-produced movies, and 2017). Spider-Man’s Uncle incredibly exaggerated, but let to wear down the audience’s of others, or if space is limited. the sad part is, it’s working! Ben has been shot THREE me explain. Marvel Studios patience, right? Surprisingly, Marvel makes more and more DIFFERENT TIMES. Why has achieved a feat that would no. Contrary to some opinions, didn’t Andrew Garfield as many of these long running NOTE TO READER: money every time they make a be considered unimaginable Any photography that has been new movie. Spider-Man work out? I can 15 years ago, a feat that no series continue to increase in manipulated will be labeled as a “photo Sadly, only a few tell you one thing, none of other studio has come close to popularity. illustration.” superhero movies hold any the blame can fall on Andrew accomplishing. Marvel’s goal Marvel has also managed Garfield. Marvel is to blame. to turn previously unknown Knight Life will publish a formal weight with me. Sure, “Iron was to make an entire universe correction of any factual error made in a Man 3” was visually appealing, Marvel (and Sony, the studio of movies, spanning multiple comic book heroes into previous issue. and “Captain America: The that made the movie with heroes and series, with one household names. The Winter Solider” had some Marvel) quickly threw together movie unifying all of them, Guardians of the Galaxy were pretty good action scenes, a movie to “wow” the masses “The Avengers.” D-list superheroes before NEED MORE KNIGHT LIFE? their movie was made. That Check out the independent voice of but overall I do not like and didn’t work on actually The risk taken here was LNHS at: these two movies. Their only developing a story arc, or an enormous, and if these movies very same movie grossed purpose is to illustrate that interesting series of events had failed, Marvel would be a worldwide total of 773 knightlifenews.com these superheroes are good with an actually interesting out hundreds of millions of million dollars. “Ant-man,” at fighting and to set up more hero and intense villain. I dollars. Admittedly, not all a lesser known superhero, movies to make more money. mean, come on. The Andrew of the movies have been hits- was a “ton of fun,” according In twenty years, is anyone Garfield reboot was green-lit “Thor” and “Fantastic 4,” to “Rolling Stone.” Even the going to remember “Ghost only five years after the last I’m looking at you-but the most unknown of superheroes Rider: Spirit of Vengeance”? Tobey Maguire Spider-Man overall the quality of these continue to break records at Is anyone going to tell their movie had been made. films has been fantastic. the box office. children about the time they This all works out for “Iron Man,” “The Avengers,” These summer saw “The Green Lantern”? Of Marvel though, because they “X-Men” and even “Ant-Man” blockbusters are highbrow art course not, both of those films have made so much money on are all fantastic series. And in comparison to what we had were terrible. other projects that they are none of these movies are like before. Remember “Batman You see, very few able to constantly try and try the others; “Iron Man” is and Robin,” the 1997 movie, Marvel or DC movies are again with movie franchises. nothing like “Ant-Man,” just starring George Clooney and memorable for anything but DC does the same. Superman like “X-Men” isn’t like the Arnold Schwarzenegger, that the occasional cool special got a reboot recently with “Avengers.” Yet somehow all of ruined Batman for almost effects and nostalgia. No “Man of Steel”, a whopping these movies are connected in a decade? A combination one universe. One hero might one will remember that they SEE OVERSATURATION PAGE 6 SEE INNOVATORS PAGE 6

No, because Yes, because there Yes, but we also violence is will be less guns need to address determined by on the street. a higher cultural your upbringing. problem.

Senior Aliyah Denny Junior Tristan Rabb Sophomore Josh Killingsworth OPINION knightlifenews.com 5 FROM OVERSATURATION PAGE 5 FROM INNOVATORS PAGE 5 FROM POLICE PAGE 4 seven years after Superman had a reboot with of awful acting, writing, and action by police two seconds after arriving on scene. Before the “Superman Returns” in 2006. “Man of Steel” made it so even George Clooney officers even stopped to see whether or not the gun was was simply mediocre, and didn’t contribute to couldn’t save that abomination. real, Rice was shot in the torso. Neither officer Timothy the greater film community. That is what superhero movies Loehmann or Frank Garmback administered first aid even Forty one of the top fifty movies of the past were before Marvel came along. after realizing the gun was fake. five years have been sequels or reboots. While These movies aren’t “so bad it’s This past summer, on July 13th, there was a case Thomas C Foster in his book “How to Read good,” they’re “so bad it’s actually involving the death of a 28 year old woman, Sandra Bland, Literature like a Professor” argues that there unwatchable.” Marvel changed all who was initially pulled over for allegedly failing to use her truly is no original story, can we at least be a of this and created a series of films turn signal. LITTLE more creative with our films? where the worst ones are merely When Bland refused to leave her car, the officer I understand that all of these films are mediocre and the best ones win threatened her with a taser and said “I will light you up!” based on different series of comics released Oscars. When Bland left the car, the officer pulled her away through Marvel and DC’s history. That’s just As my compatriot Carsten from the dashcam in his car. Off to the side, the officer it though: these are all comics and are able to points out, some people believe began yelling things that insinuated Bland was attacking be released with virtual ease. I believe that a that Marvel movies are becoming him. Bland attacking the officer was disproved by a different stance should be taken with movies. repetitive. My answer to this is cellphone witness video showing the officer putting his knee They should not be released like comics, they simple: then don’t watch them. onto Bland’s back and forcing her head into the ground should be events. They should be meaningful, What people have to realize is that while yelling his accusations. Shortly after Bland was not just another part of a huge empire of Marvel movies are completely admitted to the Waller County jail, she was found dead in repetitive movies. different from normal series.You her cell. There is still an ongoing investigation on whether Now the studios have decided that the have to think of these movies as or not this should be ruled as suicide or murder due to the next chapter of superheroes should be the comics. Comics have had the same conflicting evidence. superheroes fighting each other! Looking superheroes for over fifty years On October 20th, 2015 in Chicago, Illinois, a 17 year at you “Captain America: Civil War,” and but they’re not called repetitive. old male named Laquan McDonald was shot ten feet away “Batman V Superman”. People who read comics read what by officer Jason Van Dyke 16 times. Van Dyke claims that These movie studios have identified that they find interesting and skip the McDonald lunged at him with the knife, but a dash cam nothing sparks more debate than when people rest. The heroes they love are put video from another Chicago police car shows McDonald have to pick sides. Are you Team Edward or in different situations each time, walking away from the officers seconds before the 17 year Team Jacob? Are you Team Peeta or Team that’s what keeps the characters old was shot. Originally, there wasn’t even a necessity Gale? Now Marvel has introduced Team Iron interesting, and that’s exactly what to shoot the teenager. Shooting him twice while he was Man or Team Captain America and DC has comic book movies are doing. standing and then again, fourteen more times after he had Team Batman or Team Superman. It is a The “Iron Man” series all explore hit the ground, was uncalled for and a complete definition of cheap marketing tactic that sadly fulfills its different aspects of Tony Stark’s police brutality . intended purpose of generating discussions personality and that makes each Although there have been many protests and many and arguments that in turn generates hype. movie completely different from uprisings against all of these brutal attacks, more and more Films are an art form. They should not be the others. police brutality on black citizens examples keep occurring. rushed, we should not be constantly pushing On an even broader scope, just So what needs to be done in order to control or completely movies off the production line. Film, like don’t watch comic book movies. stop these fatal attacks? It is believed that the change needs music, needs to evolve and be constantly There are still dozens of fantastic to start within the police departments themselves. changing. Unless it gets stuck in a rut. movies that have nothing to do Since not every police officer can or should be labeled Currently the movie industry is stuck. There with comic books. “The Revenant,” as someone who abuses their power, there needs to be are going to be twenty four new superhero “The Hateful Eight,” “Spotlight,” something to specifically pin-point the good from the bad. movies from now till 2020. That is absurd and “The Big Short,” “Creed,” and This is why there needs to be a mandatory psychological is an oversaturation of a genre that we all once countless other fantastic movies evaluation of police officers every 6 months. loved. came out this year, with no caped With these evaluations, a psychiatrist can point out who Now I will regress for a moment. I loved crusaders in sight. Heck, the new is or isn’t fit to do their job effectively. With this, there also the Dark Knight trilogy, and “Guardians of The “Mad Max” movie shows that a needs to be constant check ups on the amount of complaints Galaxy” was funny, awesome, and progressive. good action film doesn’t need or lawsuits officers have on them. “The Avengers” really was a good film and it superheroes. These movies all In the case of Laquan McDonald, officer Van Dyke had broke a lot of records. “Spider-Man 2” with did quite well and were in no way at least twenty complaints and two lawsuits against him. Tobey Maguire was also an exceptional movie. inhibited by superhero movies. Within the complaints, he has been accused of racial slurs, There, I’m done. Without a doubt, superhero manhandling suspects and pointing his gun unlawfully at My friend Jake Heasley asks the question: movies are big, but they haven’t people he’s arrested. if Marvel and DC are so awful, why don’t put a stranglehold on the entire If there had been a psychological evaluation and a people spend their money other movies? movie industry and they definitely routine check up, this whole situation could have possibly Well, Jake my good friend, there are no other aren’t destroying it. been avoided. A psychological evaluation can show a movies for people to watch. As long as these Marvel isn’t the best studio of person’s strengths and weaknesses. They can also show two studios dominate the box office, the door the 21st century because they make when a person is about to break down due to the amount is shut to other people who want to make good movies. Marvel is the best of stress or pressure they are under. Evaluations also movies that are worthwhile. If we were to open studio of the 21st century because allow different characteristics, like depression or anger that door just a crack, we could finally get back they took a chance at something management problems, to be shown. Psychology can to making films like we used to. If we start to unprecedented. While most determine the overuse of power leading to brutality by make insightful and good films like “Silence movie series can be described as a allowing the police departments to see who is or isn’t of the Lambs” and “Jaws”, we will remedy this straight line from sequel to sequel, mentally stable. entire problem. the Marvel cinematic universe can If a person, especially a police officer who has access Please Marvel and DC, Make a movie that only be described as a spider web to weapons, isn’t mentally stable, there really is no telling I will see in 50 years and genuinely want to of interconnected movies. The what can happen. By adding a psychiatrist to every police watch again. Make a movie that I can tell my difficulty of this accomplishment department, a mandatory psychological evaluation every grandkids about seeing in the theaters. Make cannot be underestimated and 6 months and a routine check up on the complaints or a movie for the ages and no, that movie is not Marvel should be commended for lawsuits made against officers, there could be a definite “Punisher: War Zone,” or “Thor: The Dark its achievement. decrease in examples of police brutality. World,” or “Catwoman,” or “Jonah Hex,” or... 6 knightlifenews.com OPINION cats: relieving stress in public places there or snow days,” said junior Kierra know the library like the back of their Grado. paw. To make these cat bookstores and If rabbits and dogs can be in cafes cafes even better, most of these furry and bookstores, then why are we babies are up for adoption from local leaving out cats? shelters. “In Grand Rapids there is a rabbit “Officials knew if people just took cafe, where you can pet and feed a few minutes to hold these animals, rabbits to relieve stress, which is great,” that a bond might form. And in fact said senior Skyler Makuch, “[…] Cats — to date — 100 kittens have been tend to be more favored than rabbits.” adopted from the library. And it’s that Anyone who owns or has owned kind of outside-the-cage thinking that a cat knows that they often share our folks here would like spread to other same emotions. Cats have their own communities across the country,” said hissy fits like toddlers’ tantrums when Steve Hartman, author of the article, they don’t get what they want, and “‘Cat Libraries’ Offers Purrfect Solution they purr like crazy when their owner to Stress.” rewards them with catnip or treats. It’s beneficial to keep cats as pets, According to 50 Fascinating Facts not only to save them from being About Your Cat, “Keeping a cat as a pet euthanized at shelters, but also because reduces the risk of heart attacks and they are great companions that we can strokes by nearly one third.” relate to in so many ways. Even if you There are a few places where can’t adopt one, you can still give some cats are already taking up residence, love to the kittens at those libraries and Photo Illustration / Dagnija Tomsons including Catfe – a half cafe, half cat cafes. Besides, who doesn’t want a cute, foster home – in Vancouver, The Spiral fluffy, purring kitten sleeping on their DagnijaTomsons Bookstore in Philadelphia, and Neko lap? Cats are cute little fluff balls company of a furry creature. Sadly Cafe TiME in Fushimi, Kyoto. Okay, maybe those allergic to that are great listeners, cuddlers and there are none in Kalamazoo, but Bookstores and libraries also have cats wouldn’t want that, but lucky for fighters. They are best friends and there are many around the world. cats as local residents, like Dewey them these kittens are usually kept in enemies, with deadly claws, sharp If there were cat cafes here in Readmore of the Spencer Public a separate room in cafes. As for the fangs and glowing, devil eyes. Cats Kalamazoo, I’m pretty sure that Library in Iowa. Readmore was the libraries? Watch out for those fluffy are basically the same as humans, people would go check them out as library’s mascot from 1988 to 2006. tails before you sneeze! emotion-wise. soon as they are able. There was even a book written about Most cats would love to have According to 10 Fascinating “I think that cats in cafes and him in 2010 called Dewey: The Small- someone there to take care of them like Facts About Cats, “A cat’s grey matter libraries is a good idea. I think it Town Library Cat Who Touched the an abandoned child, or at least give shares some remarkable similarities would be a good way for people World. them a piece of their time and love. to a human brain. Although experts to be around animals while doing Cats were even used in Egyptian Cats may seem like independent loners, disagree on the depth and range, something like drinking coffee or temples to rid their “temple libraries” but most actually love the attention. [they] all confirm that kittens feel reading a book. I like the idea of of rats and mice that like to feed on Without a doubt, the combination emotions not that dissimilar from having a cat sleeping on my lap while books. So, it’s only right for us to have of books and cats make an excellent, people. Happiness, excitability, I read a book. It’d be lovely. If shops cats in our stores, right? They would stress-free environment in our crazy playfulness, depression, and anger.” can have dogs then why can’t cafes have so many useful jobs, serving society. Cat cafes are coffee shops where and libraries have cats? I would go as mascot, greeter, companion and customers can order food and drink to a cafe or library with cats all the even assistant librarian, like Kuzya of like any other cafe, but also enjoy the freaking time. I’d spend rainy days Novorossiysk Library in Russia. They

Dear Editor, In response to Jalin Pritchett’s article, “Confederate No More: The LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Double-Crossed Flag is No Longer Dear Editor, Dear Editor, Dear Editor, Relevant,” I would like to say that I was Generally speaking your newspaper I read “All Hail the Homecoming I read the article titled pleased with the author’s description is biased, focusing more on the mindset King, Long May She Reign.” I love “Pseudoscience Has Popularized of the contemporary impact that of left leaning thoughts. But in recent this article, not only because Sabi and GMOs” and I liked it. Clayton really the Confederate flag has on modern papers I’ve been pleased to see an Nessa are two of my really close friends explained GMOs well and why they are day society. I think Pritchett does an effort to show different perspectives. but because of the support that was a problem. He has uncovered the truth excellent job at explaining the context One thing I’ve noticed is your point shown. I loved how they stayed positive about the harmful foods we consume in which the flag should be viewed. counterpoint articles. I would have and mainly focused on the topic (The and has given reasons as to why they Let’s not forget that the cause for the liked to have seen an argument for King) and how they pointed out how aren’t healthy for our society. He also Civil War was slavery, and that the the new tax, but it’s not like we can supportive people were for Sabi. The states how GMOs aren’t helping more Confederate States were willing to go ask you to change too quickly. This is article could help others come out to than regular crops do. He has a valid to war for their “right” to own other one of the lesser biased papers since their friends. You never know how point as to why GMOs are bad and I human beings. A disgusting image- a I’ve been here, which made it a little much support you have unless you agree with him. GMOs are doing more reminder of the hateful ideals posited more bearable to read. Just add more speak up. I like how they mentioned bad than they are good. and practiced by the Southern states perspectives if you want to gain the there was negative support but ended it Junior, Erika Wagoner inthe 20th century. By appropriating respect of other groups. there. Positive things most of the time the flying of the flag simply to “uphold Senior, Austin Herbert overpower negative things. values of the Confederacy” is lunacy. Senior, Ti-Zhane Mitchell Senior, Wil Moss

OPINION knightlifenews.com 7 from flint water page 1 water was when skin rashes became 2016, where he endearingly thanked Krieder, one of Link Crew’s organizer’s prominent. The water is a murky brown the whistleblowers who brought said, “We started talking about it Adequate drinking water should color that smells foul. attention to the high levels of lead. [Flint’s poisoned water] in class on not have any lead in it. Governor Snyder and Emergency He also promised $28 million in state Monday [January 18th]. We started Drinking lead-contaminated water City Manager Darnell Early are facing funds to help Flint, as well as many talking about the Flint situation in for anyone is harmful, but children the most scrutiny for the Flint water more bottles of water. my Link Crew Class, and the kids got run more risk considering their brains crisis who could have prevented this Governor Snyder said in his State really fired up about it,” Krieder also are still developing. The symptoms crisis by paying as low as $80 daily to of the State address “You deserve said, “The number one way [to help] include a list of problems for lead treat the water. better. You deserve accountability. You would be to bring in bottled water,” he poisoned children including: kidney, Virginia Tech’s lead researcher on deserve to know that the buck stops said. behavioral, nervous system, speech, the Flint water crisis Marc Edwards here with me. Most of all, you deserve Loy Norrix senior Sarah Giramia both muscle and bone growth and said, “Science alone is powerless, to know the truth...no citizen of this said, “If this happened in a bigger difficulty learning. absolutely powerless, to these agencies. great state should endure this kind of city, with more balanced [diversity] Adults who ingest lead also Facts mean nothing to these people. catastrophe,” Governor Snyder also amount of people, with more whites face problems, such as nervous Scientific truth means nothing to said, “Government failed you -- federal, than blacks, then this wouldn’t have system disabilities, problems during them.” state and local leaders -- by breaking happened. If this happened in his pregnancy, digestive issues, fertility Since the crisis has happened, Flint the trust you placed in us.” [Governor Snyder’s] neighborhood, he and memory problems. mayor Karen Weaver has estimated Loy Norrix’s Link Crew plans on would fix it, but because it’s happening Many are worried for the students that it will cost between 1-1.5 billion helping Flint in a major way, asking in Flint, they’re going to take their of Flint and how they’re going to act in dollars to fix the infrastructure damage students at Norrix to donate water. Jon time.” school. and ameliorate (reverse and reduce) Loy Norrix English teacher, the physical damages to the citizens. Jameeka Johnson, who formerly Dr. Mona Hanna Attisha, who taught in Flint said, “They’re already works for Hurley Children’s Hospital disadvantaged economically. They’re and Michigan State University’s College already so far behind without the lead of Human Medicine in the Department poisoning-with that being included, I of Human Development and Pediatrics, feel bad for their future.” published her findings of lead levels in On October 1st, Genesee County children before and after Flint changed (which is where Flint is located) water sources. These findings are declared a public health emergency, published in the American Journal of telling residents to not drink the Public Health. water. President Barack Obama has Dr. Attisha’s study concluded also declared a state of emergency that blood lead levels increased for Flint. Governor Rick Snyder also from 2.4 percent to 6.6 percent. The called in the National Guard to help highest levels of lead were found in distribute water to Flint’s people. “socioeconomically disadvantaged General Motors even issued a neighborhoods.” notice in 2014 stating they would On November 13th, 2015, four cease to use Flint’s river water in families filed a class action lawsuit factories there, fearing that it would against Michigan Governor Snyder for corrode even more cars than it already violating laws that protect the water had. The water contained so much people use. Another class action lawsuit lead that it abraded car parts, yet the against him was filed January 14th, government kept insisting it was safe 2016. KPS Superintendent Dr. Rice hands off water to Kalamazoo Central’s Assistant Principal Ajamian Gardner at the Kalamazoo Administration building on Howard Many blame Governor Snyder to drink. St. Flint has struggled with lead poisoned water. Photo Credit / Clayton Barker Residents of Flint truly started for his slow reaction. Snyder gave his to comprehend just how terrible their State of the State address January 19th, from grief page 2 with a counselor,” said Loy Norrix There are other resources outside such as a vigil. This allows for people to “I have sort of moved on, but there counselor Rebecca Learner. of school available to people who gather and share memories about the are moments when I have a sudden The counselors fear that there are coping with grief. The Southwest loved one. Such events allow one to see relapse into sadness in which I think are people who do not feel worthy Michigan Hospice Care has a program that they are not alone and that there I could’ve done something else,” said of receiving this help. Many use the called Journey’s which focuses on are others who are going through the junior Da’Jzon Hughes. excuse that ‘I didn’t know the person’ the needs of people who are grieving. same thing. With the recent events in to dissuade themselves from meeting Another place people can call is the “I was close to Temetrion, to Kalamazoo there are many people who with a counselor and getting the Gryphon Place; it is always open and cope with it, I’ve talked to relatives are grieving and going through these support they deserve. However, the anyone can call in if they need someone and Temetrion’s cousin. I also play stages. Both Kalamazoo Central and truth of the matter is that anyone can to talk to. basketball to help cope,” said Hughes. Loy Norrix have counselors trained in experience grief and everyone who is The most important asset to Overcoming grief is a difficult order to help people deal with loss. with grief should meet with someone to someone who is overcoming grief is obstacle that everyone at some point “We are trained to counsel get help. having others to rely on and share in their lifetime will deal with. The students and be there for them, being A person who goes into the their feelings with. Friends, parents, lives lost in the Kalamazoo community in charge of data and schedules is counseling offices can meet with the relatives and other trusted adults are have taken their toll and conquering second to taking care of our students,” counselor and personally talk or meet great people to confide your feelings to. this grief will take longer for some said Loy Norrix counselor Sheryl Scott. in a group with other people to deal Coping strategies are important in compared to others, but moving past Counselors are reliable with the grief together. There are helping someone overcome grief, but this grief is the biggest step towards people to help deal with stress many things done in group counseling differ from person to person. Whether acceptance and healing. and also grief. The counselors are that help people deal with grief it be writing music, poems or journals, licensed professional counselors or such as reminiscing on memories, it’s a good way for anyone to vent their psychologists. talking about how one feels, taking feelings and to relieve themselves of “I think anyone who feels like they action by finding ways to remember bottled up emotions. Another way that are grieving should come in and meet the individual and by using coping one can deal with grief is by attending strategies. or planning events for the deceased, 8 knightlifenews.com OPINION WHERE DO THEY STAND? THE CANDIDATES ON THE ISSUES Nora Hilgart-Griff

Donald Trump (R) Ted Cruz (R) Marco Rubio (R) Bernie Sanders (D) Hillary Clinton (D)

Income/Economic Income/Economic Income/Economic Income/Economic Income/Economic Inequality: Inequality: Inequality: Inequality: Inequality: Plans to implement a new income Believes income inequality Limited government can help solve Should be addressed by raising the Wants to raise minimum wage to $12 tax plan with a zero percent tax on is caused by government economic inequality. He believes minimum wage to $15 per hour, per hour and close corporate loopholes. the bottom bracket of taxpayers economic involvement; that lowering taxes will allow expanding the social safety net, Believes that Wall Street should ‘work and a 25 percent tax on the top lowered taxes and reduced people to keep more of the money reforming systems of inequality with’ the government to promote bracket. regulations will lead to greater that they make. Wants to expand (criminal justice system), and economic growth. Says upward economic equality. earned income tax credit to make it removing tax breaks and loopholes mobility needs to become more realistic Gun Control: Wants to protect monthly. that benefit the very wealthy and for the average American. the second amendment, believes Gun Control: He wants corporate multinationals. gun ownership makes U.S. safer, to protect the second Gun Control: Asserts that Gun Control: She’s a strong not more dangerous. He’s against amendment. He’s against there shouldn’t be new gun laws; Gun Control: Wants to ban semi- supporter of gun control legislation, gun-free zones. banning high-capacity gun laws are ineffective. Second automatics and gun show loophole, lawsuits against gun shops and gun magazines and ‘unreasonable’ amendment is “a cornerstone of require instant background checks, manufacturers, background checks, Affordable College: Trump gun restrictions. our democracy”. Rubio voted no on voted against gun shop lawsuits but and Pres. Obama’s recently introduced said, “I get asked all the time banning high-capacity magazines. for manufacturer lawsuits. executive action on gun control. about student loans by students Affordable College: with debt up to here, and I tell Recently helped to block Affordable College: Affordable College: Supports a Affordable College: Charge families them it’s all about the jobs. You legislation that would have Favors an income-based repayment federal/state partnership to cover for college based on what they can have to get a job.” allowed upwards of 25 million system that would allow private free public tuition, with money afford; hold students accountable graduated Americans to investors to look at major, school, gained from taxing Wall Street for working toward a portion of their Immigration: Wants to “ship refinance student loans at grades, etc and decide to invest in transactions. tuition on a weekly basis. back” illegal immigrants and lower interest rates. a student’s education based the build a wall along the Mexican/ perceived likelihood of repayment. Immigration: Wishes to offer Immigration: Against a border fence, American border. Wants to place Immigration: He supports a path to citizenship and waive for a unifying language requirement. a ban on Muslim immigrants mandatory jail sentencing Immigration: Believes that deportation. Sanders wants to secure Wants to fight for a path to “full and as a protective measure against for immigrants re-entering comprehensive immigration reform the border without a wall, is against equal citizenship,” plans to defend terrorism and has said he might the U.S. and wants to defund is “politically unfeasible,” and in english-speaking-only policies, and Pres. Obama’s executive actions re: support a database system that amnesty programs and need for very strong border control, for allowing hospital treatment for immigration, with “humane and would monitor the activities and strengthen border security. against amnesty. illegal immigrants. targeted” immigration enforcement. movements of Muslim Americans. National Debt/Balancing National Debt/Balancing National Debt/Balancing National Debt/Balancing the National Debt/Balancing the Budget: Calls for a flat the Budget: States will return the Budget: Favors progressive Budget: The national debt is an issue the Budget: Believes debt level tax and a balanced budget. He unused federal funds to pay off $18 taxation, higher taxes on the very of “national security.” Believes that is near “the point of no return,” hasn’t yet laid out a specific trillion debt. Rubio hopes to pass wealthy and large corporations, former Pres. Bill Clinton’s policies and that his experience as a balanced budget proposal. a balanced budget amendment reduce defence spending, and invest (he presided over the last economic businessman can help him reduce to reduce spending and grow the in infrastructure to create jobs and surplus) could help us climb back out of it. economy. stimulate the economy. the deficit hole.

Bailey Martin, Senior: Michael Wright, U.S Alex Lutz, Senior: Isabelle Tavares, Senior: Matt Porco, AP U.S Government “It isn’t so much that I like Government & American “I like his immigration plan. “I really like Bernie because he Teacher: Donald Trump, but that I respect Military History Teacher: He seems down to Earth. But, advocates for Black Lives Matter, “I think her experience as senator and what he’s doing. Taking votes “[I like Cruz] because he’s I don’t think he’ll win, because wants to break up big banks, secretary of state give her the domes- [...] from Hillary [...] speaking a constitutional originalist popular opinion tends to be for believes in an economy for all tic and foreign policy experience that his mind, and dividing a ruined who believes in the vision the idiot with the large mouth. If (not just the wealthy), recognizes makes her ready to lead the country. Republican party [...] which of the founding fathers, he is elected, he will bring about that health care and education are My concern is that if the Democratic has been divided between believes American should change and hopefully bring the rights, wants to regulate capitalism, nominee is someone too far outside the warmongering neoconservatives, be a libertarian society U.S together to help solve our wants to fund service for victims mainstream, it would open the door for and old fashioned libertarian with a small government problems.” of domestic violence, and ban high a more radical, outsider Republican.” constitutionalists. He’s void of and maximized personal capacity magazines in guns. He’s outside influence from [special freedom, and he’s not afraid also for equal pay for women and a interests]. His appeal is that he’s to attack the Republican sustainable energy system.” saying what no other politician establishment.” wants to discuss.” NEWS knightlifenews.com 9 SOCIAL JUSTICE: AN IN-DEPTH LOOK #SOCIALJUSTICE: SOCIAL ACTIVISM LOY NORRIX STUDENTS GET INVOLVED SEXUAL HARRASSMENT IN SCHOOL JOURNEY INTO ACTIVISM:

Loy Norrix students were asked which social movements they thought were IGNITES THE FIRE OF SOCIAL CHANGE most important of the movements given, and if they had participated in any HAS COME TO BE EXPECTED HOW TO GET INVOLVED rallies/marches/etc. in support of a specific movement. The numbers are RubyHensley MaggieLager “[Sexual harassment is] basically stuff that you ChristianBaker percentages from total responses. shouldn’t say to your mother,” said sophomore Lili From the Spring Valley High assault to the incidents in Scrolling through your timeline, thumbing through the prank videos and DIY Mead. Ferguson, to the killing of Temetrion Hegler, there are societal how-tos, your eye catches another news headline: ‘Young Boy Killed at the Hands of “I personally define sexual harassment as both flaws everywhere. Some people may want to get involved in politics Police.’ physical and verbal advances on an individual with an activist point of view, but don’t know how to start. Former You turn on the TV and yet another news anchor distraughtly mumbles about What movements do you believe are the most that aren’t wanted, asked for, or appreciated,” said Loy Norrix student Kaitlin Martin gives us some tips on how to a young man opening fire on a school of students. Another tweet tagging sympathy important? junior Sidney Richardson. begin the journey into activism. for the victims of a bombing in a city across the world blinks on your phone. You sit “I feel like [sexual harassment] is not just There are two important things to know before you can put behind the screen and count all the “others” and wonder when it will actually stop. % physical, I feel like if someone is intensely staring your voice into the world. Over the past few years there have been many incidents around the world, #prayforparis at your chest or somewhere else, that qualifies as “Knowledge is key,” Martin said. including bombings, attacks and police brutality, that have informed the Photo Illustration / Maggie Lager sexual harassment,” said junior Lauren Hybels. You have to know what is happening around you to world of various inequalities that still exist today. Such travesties have caused I was seven years old when I became aware According to “Hostile Hallways,” a book on sexual understand what the problem is. large social movements to erupt throughout social media, news outlets and #bringbackourgirls of my body. It was one of the first warm days harassment in school commissioned by the AAUW “Do a lot of research on what exactly you are fighting for... and communities internationally. An example of one of these social movements is the of my second grade year and I was wearing my Educational Foundation, “83 percent of girls if you stand for it completely,” said senior Sidney Ellis. #blacklivesmatter movement, which seeks to put an end to systemic racism in the % #istandwithpp new yellow skirt. My table partner, whose name and 60 percent of boys in grades 9-12 reported If you don’t understand what you’re fighting for, you will come United States. A common platform for these movements is social media and many 37% I don’t remember, reached under the table and experiencing sexual harassment in schools.” off as ignorant, and people won’t take you seriously. Think before people have voiced their opinions and frustrations over these issues through it. slid his hand up my thigh, resting it on my butt. Even more shocking, according to a Gruber you speak. Don’t just come out and type something up on Twitter There are many Loy Norrix students who are very outspoken about social #blacklivesmatter Feeling violated and confused, I did the first survey from the University of Southern Maine, “71 or Facebook. issues, including senior Allegra Kistler, who has been to protests, lectures and rallies % thing I could think to do and got up to tell my percent of LGBT students reported being sexually Second, know how to respond to situations, for example, the supporting the causes she is most passionate about. teacher. As a seven year old the seriousness of harassed at school in the last year.” shooting of Zaevion Dobson in tennessee December 19. 2015 or the “Last winter, I went to the Black Lives Matter protest downtown,” said Kistler. what had just occurred wasn’t clear to me, it With statistics like these it shouldn’t come as Charlie Hebdo attack in France. “We held posters and protested police brutality.” Have you ever participated in a march/rally/etc. in wouldn’t be until much later in my life that I a surprise that many Loy Norrix students report Kalamazoo for Justice (K4J) is a group that has in the past Kistler has also attended the Gloria Steinem and Ta-Nehisi Coates lectures at support of a specific movement? came to realize this was the first time I had been personally experiencing or witnessing sexual been devoted to educating people how to react and “engage” Miller Auditorium. Gloria Steinem, a pioneer activist of the feminist movement, sexually harassed, and even then I’m not sure I harassment at school. in situations such as things like police brutality or corrupt analyzed modern feminism and gender violence. Ta-Nehisi Coates, journalist and have not participated fully understood what that means. “I’ve been sexually harassed a few times at government officials. The group put pressure on government national correspondent for “The Atlantic”, discussed racism in the criminal justice Sexual harassment is defined by the U.S. Norrix by students. One particular time I was officials watching their actions and when a crisis would arises, they and law enforcement systems in the US. 21% have participated Equal Employment Opportunity Commission as walking up the ramp to the A-wing when a boy stood in solidarity with the people affected and the people doing Although social media activism is a relatively new concept, and under quite a harassment in a workplace, other professional within a group of boys shouted, ‘Hey sexy, look at something about it. bit of scrutiny due to the concept of “slacktivism” (being politically active when it’s % or social situation involving the making of me!’ I went to a teacher and reported this and filled It may seem hard to see what is wrong with society, but there considered trendy), Kistler believes that it is important to make progress in social unwanted sexual advances or obscene remarks. out an incident report, but I’m not sure if anything are many ways to open your eyes. Though the group Kalamazoo for justice movements. Common forms of sexual harassment include ever happened,” said junior Sophia DeRango, “This Justice currently lacks participation and interest, there are many “I think it’s just another form of activism… it connects people and helps in unwelcome sexual comments jokes or gestures, encounter may seem trivial, but more aggressive other ways to get involved. Get associated with local groups around carrying information. That can also be detrimental to the movement, but I think being called gay or lesbian with a negative things have been said to me in similar situations to Kalamazoo like the LN for Justice Facebook page or the YWCA, an overall it has positive effects,” said Kistler. connotation, being touched in an unwelcome this, ‘Hey sexy look at me!’ is incredibly demeaning anti-violence group, and stay up to date with current events; social Even those who are soft spoken believe that social activism is important, way, having someone flash or expose themselves and inappropriate especially when it is directed media is a good resource, as well as the local news. including senior Kirsten Haines. to you, being shown sexy or sexual pictures towards a minor.” No matter who you are there is something you can do. If you “You need to stand up for what you believe in,” said Haines, “and if you don’t without your consent, being physically Those who’ve been harassed are likely to are someone who likes technology, you can create a website to help then nothing’s going to change.” intimidated in a sexual manner, or being forced experience a wide variety of negative emotions keep people aware. You could also start a group in your community However, she has a somewhat different perspective on activism through social to perform sexual acts. including frustration, anxiety, stress, confusion, or school. If that’s not for you, just being knowledgeable of current media. When many think of sexual harassment, and even depression, especially around the place events and talking to your friends about the events is something “I think [social media] blows things way farther than it needs to be. I also feel they don’t realize how broad this term is. where the harassment occurred. Emotions like anyone can do. like it does give [information] that we normally wouldn’t know about or hear about,” When Loy Norrix students were asked these are especially difficult for students to deal Social injustices may seem distant, but they can be right at our said Haines. the question “how do you define sexual with, particularly when triggered in a school doorstep within a blink of an eye. When people are discriminated, Social media activism allows for a raw, uncensored report of current events to harassment?” they gave a variety of answers. environment. mistreated, beaten and killed, will you be someone who does be spread to a wider audience, compared to that of mainstream news outlets. An The answers were all true, but none fully Students who have been sexually harassed at something about it? As people of a society that have power, it is example of this is the cellphone-recorded coverage of Eric Garner’s apprehension There are many similarities between previous social movements and those of to- encompassed everything that sexual harassment school often report avoiding certain classes/social our responsibility to use it. and murder by police in New York in 2014; the video received over 2 million views. day. Left: Anti-Vietnam protests from Wikipedia taken in 1967; Right: Black Lives can be. According to Jane Susskind of IVN, 39 percent of the American adult Matter Protest from Flickr taken in 2015. SEE SEXUAL HARRASSMENT PAGE 12 SEE SOCIAL ACTIVISM PAGE 12 LOCAL ACTIVISM KKK AND KALAMAZOO PBC PROTESTS KALAMAZOO DIE-INS KC WALK OUT According to MLive, on December 8, 2014: 200 Kalamazoo According to MLive; May 14, 1983: Ku Klux Klansman According to michigan united; on May 16, 2013: The Kalamazoo December 4, 2014: Students at Loy Norrix High School hold a Central students walk out of school at 1:00 to take a stand Daniel Emery and 13 Neo-Nazis host an Anti-Gay Rally. River Clean-Up Coalation (KRCC) and Michigan United hold a die-in to show their support for the deaths of Eric Garner and against racism and police brutality. More than 100 people During the rally, hosts attempt to convince 300 counter- march and rally to convince the EPA to remove toxic waste from Michael Brown. A similar die-in occurred later that day during also walk through Kalamazoo chanting “Black lives matter! demonstrators to join their side. the Allied Paper Landfill. the December Art Hop at the Kalamazoo Mall with hundreds in attendance. Information from MLive. No justice, no peace,” protesting the previous incidents of police brutality in Ferguson, Missouri.

10 FEATURE knightlifenews.com 11 FROM SOCIAL ACTIVISM PAGE 10 population participated in “some type of political activity on a HOVERBOARDS THREATEN PEOPLE’S social networking site” during the 2012 Presidential Election. Though this statistic may seem small, the level of activism in young adults takes up a much larger margin of the numbers SAFETY AND WREAK HAVOC relating to social activism. “Younger adults are much more likely to [be] politically “No they’re not dangerous if you know how active on social networking sites,” Susskind said. Which is not to ride it,” Jackson said. all surprising due to the widening generation gap related to However, that could be where the problem personal views on social activism. starts. A hoverboard owner could be learning Although this generation gap is very prevalent in social how to ride it, and that’s when the accident activism in 2016, previous generations don’t necessarily find happens. negativity in social media activism. Not only are injuries adding to the cost of According to Cindy Vanlieu, AP Studio Art teacher at owning a hoverboard, but these problems are Loy Norrix, social media activism is beneficial to social putting every user and owner at risk. movements due to its ability to spread more information to Issues with the hoverboard have been more people. causing some of the boards to catch on fire while “Information that you want people to know can be they are charging. transmitted in so many ways,” said Vanlieu. “More people are The article “Why Are ‘Hoverboards’ Literally aware of the issues, but not all the information is accurate, so Catching Fire?” by NPR News says the issue with that can be problematic. I think the issues are very much the the “hoverboards have been burning up because same.” of problems with their lithium ion batteries.” Vanlieu was a protester during the Vietnam War, College campuses are also banning advocating for peace as well as advocating for women’s hoverboards from campus because of their rights. She notes how some social movements changed her dangers. generation’s view on social activism. According to NewsObserver in an article “The Civil Rights movement was a game changer for “Triangle Colleges Ban Hoverboards, Citing Fire many of us,” Vanlieu recalls, “I was at the University of Risk” by Jane Stancill, “Colleges and universities Michigan when the ‘Students for a Democratic Society’ was have taken action to ban the self-balancing organized and became a very strong voice of social dissent.” scooters from campus buildings because of fire Social media is a platform for activism to thrive and make concerns related to the lithium-ion batteries itself available to the masses, even when some cannot actively related to the device.” participate in social movements. It especially provides Senior Nique Jackson poses on the Hoverboards have been banned from an area of expression for those with physical and mental hoverboard that her sister got for resident halls at Campbell, Duke, Meredith and disabilities who are not able to be a part of rallies, protests or Christmas this past year. many other colleges. marches. All-in-all, social media activism is essentially a more Photo Credit / Aviounce Compton The fire risks have lead to the chairman of accessible version of full-fledged activism. the Consumer Product Safety Commission, Elliot MakennaSandt Kaye, making a statement about the dangers of FROM SEXUAL HARRASSMENT PAGE 11 Imagine hitting the pavement, hard. You the hoverboards. Kaye’s statement suggests that try to figure out what is hurting more, your hoverboards should not be charged overnight or situations, such as lunch or sporting events. These are body or your self-esteem. After spending up to right after riding. Kaye also says that it is best to behaviors which often exacerbate effects of anxiety and $500 to buy a hoverboard that just knocked you buy a hoverboard from a location, somewhere depression and make the situation worse. Not to mention to the ground, now even more money is being that the hoverboard could easily be returned if that many middle and high school students have fewer spent going to the emergency room to check the necessary. opportunities and resources to learn coping methods for these injuries. Kaye gives other tips about being safe too. negative emotions, due to a lack of time, and in many cases, Injury after injury has been occurring For example, do not ride the hoverboard near support. because of one of the hottest holiday presents vehicles. “For me, [sexual harassment] did have long term effects. of 2015. Priced at almost $400 to $500, Location can affect the rider’s safety too. I honestly don’t think I’ll ever forget how embarrassed and people have been buying and raving about the Jackson suggests not to ride the hoverboard humiliated I felt; I still kind of blame myself for letting it hoverboards throughout the holiday season. when it is raining or snowing. happen,” said an anonymous senior. The growings sales add to a growing number of Jackson’s sister tried to ride their In addition, not punishing harassers, especially those at injuries too. hoverboard outside when it was snowing, and it a young age, reinforces the idea that it’s acceptable to treat According to the article “Hoverboard Fires, did not go as planned. people in demeaning ways, putting ideas in people’s head that Injuries Soar Amid Safety Probe” by CBS News, “Because she [her sister] tried it, and she fell can last a lifetime. “people are being sent to the emergency room off and scraped it,” Jackson continued, “because Sexual harassment is preventable. By teaching students and fires have been started because of the it’s on wheels so the traction won’t pick up.” and educators exactly what sexual harassment is and how hoverboards.” Senior Sarah Giramia is not supportive of to respond with consequences for the harasser and support They may be cool new toys, but the dangers people purchasing the expensive toy. for the victim, the presence of sexual harassment could be are costly. We will eventually become completely drastically reduced. As with all social issues, the problem Kids and adults alike have shown interest reliant on technology, just like the characters in doesn’t have an obvious cure-all solution, but by taking these in riding the hoverboards and owning them. the Disney Pixar movie WALL-E. easy steps towards prevention, schools can become places They are amazed when seeing someone riding it “They’re ridiculous. We’re going to end up where students no longer have to worry about covering up without trouble or injury. like those people in WALL-E,” Giramia said. their bodies to walk down the hallways or being groped in the The article “Hoverboard Injuries, Fires on Junior Brittany Day learned how to ride a lunch line. Rise” by Kathleen Doheny on WebMD says, friend’s hoverboard,but she would not buy one Finally, it’s important to remember that passivity is a “The injuries treated in emergency rooms herself. form of tolerance and that by remaining silent when you include fractures, strains, sprains, contusions, “I don’t want to spend that much money witness harassment, you are siding with the harasser. Know lacerations and head injury.” because it will get boring fast,” Day said. that your voice is your most powerful tool and it can be used Senior Nique Jackson and her family have Jackson agrees, she said she would not to change the world for the better or the worse. Do your a hoverboard. Her sister got it as a Christmas spend her own money on a hoverboard. part in preventing sexual harassment by speaking up and present and the family shares it. Jackson has “I guess if you’re a lazy person maybe I encouraging victims to report harassment. experience riding the board around her house. would buy one,” Jackson said.

12 knightlifenews.com FEATURE THE PRICE OF COLLEGE IS RISING, WHILE STUDENT FINANCIAL STABILITY IS FALLING

“If I didn't have the Promise and couldn't get Other methods of paying for college include enough grants or scholarships, I don't think going to grants and scholarships. If a student doesn't have college would be worth taking out loans,” said junior proper funds, applying for them is beneficial since Josh Wild. the money can go towards room and board and Forty million Americans have an average of books. $29,000 in student debt each, making the nationwide Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or total rise to $1.2 trillion. Many people put off going FASFA, provides $150 billion in federal grants and to college or decide not to go when they realize they loans each year to more than 13 million students who can’t afford it straight out of high school, but as a are struggling to pay for college. The process starts college education becomes a requirement for many with filling out and applying for student aid, getting jobs, not going to college is less of an option. a federal student aid ID and providing the the right “Student loans were the only way I was going to paperwork. The state deadline for students attending be able to go to college, so I think it was worth taking college in 2016-2017 is March 1st for applications. them out because I wasn’t able to pay for it myself,” said Loy Norrix teacher Jay Peterson. It took Peterson THE STATE DEADLINE FOR Illustration / Frankie Stevens 13 years to finish paying off his student loan debt. For others that are fresh out of college and have STUDENTS ATTENDING only been teaching for a few years, like math teacher COLLEGE IN 2016-2017 FrankieStevens Samantha Maxwell, finally paying off student loans is IS MARCH 1ST FOR You’re finally graduating college after four hard a long term goal. APPLICATIONS years of lectures, late nights, and coffee. Finally free “This is the fourth year I have been paying them, from the everyday rhythm of classes and homework, and I’ll continue to pay them for at least thirty more,” you’re ready to start your new job, but let’s not forget said Maxwell. After you submit your application it takes a few about the $50 thousand in student loans that got you Other countries like Brazil, Finland, Germany, weeks to know if you have been selected to receive to this point. and Sweden all offer free college tuition. In France student aid. If you have been selected you choose Every year, students are graduating from college annual tuition is $150-$900 dollars, but compared which type of aid you need and reply back within the with thousands of dollars in student debt. Milestones to the U.S that equals about two credit hours at deadline. The process can be long but worth the help like buying a house, starting a family or saving for Kalamazoo Valley Community College (KVCC). you receive. retirement are all affected by this. Finland, on the other hand, has completely free Overall the price of college in the United States For the students in Kalamazoo Public Schools college tuition and is said to have the best education is an average of over $32 thousand and the students who receive the Kalamazoo Promise, paying for system in the world. Free college comes with a here are struggling to keep up with payments. college isn't as scary as it is for others. These students price though, an average tax rate of 24 percent. The Students need to get involved in their future and have the security of knowing that a portion or all of European countries have a higher tax, so they can learn about their financial options to avoid being part their tuition is paid for. offer additional social services like college tuition. of the 40 million in debt. TEACHER PREPARATION PROGRAMS SEE MAJOR DECLINE IN ENROLLMENT According to Sarah Hofius Hall from the about watching the students grasp the knowledge that “Tribune-Times”, “in 2012-13 there were nearly 25 has been taught to them. Many teachers are not in it thousand teaching certificates issued, by 2014-15 for the money. there were only 8 thousand.” “It’s exciting for them to finally get it,” said LN In the state of California, there has been a 53 English teacher Lauren Kinnamon. percent decrease of teachers in the school system. Stephen Sawchuk from “Education Week” has This is happening across the country due to the said, “The teacher-preparation program, a program number of college students taking an interest in that prepares teachers, has dropped 10 percent in subjects that aren’t focused on teaching. To remedy enrollment from 2002 to 2014.” this issue, some states have tried to prevent current Regena Fails Nelson is a professor and chair teachers from resigning by giving them a raise in of the Department of Teaching, Learning and their salary. Educational studies at Western Michigan University. According to the “Tribune-Times”, “In the past Nelson understands the impact of students not Math teacher Alex Stephens is seen here helping three years the number of teaching certificates that enrolling in teaching programs in college. She has student Madison Holmer with her classwork. Stevens have been issued has dropped by 66 percent.” noticed that there has been a small increase in the was an intern at Loy Norrix for Adam Hosler for all of The cause of the decline is the teaching program enrollment of high school students into an Education the 2014-2015 school year. requirements are hard for college students to balance. For Employment (EFE) teaching program, but Photo Credit / Abby Farrer For a bachelor’s degree, students are required to do that number doesn’t compare to the magnitude of AbbyFarrer multiple internships and several class evaluations students taking art and science EFEs. while also taking courses at their own at the “Van Buren County has over 75 students in their The professor looks up from the class roster university. Becoming a secondary school teacher [Teacher Academy] program and Kalamazoo has 60 then back to the students that are filing in. Only 10 requires students to have a bachelor’s degree in the students,” said Fails Nelson. students signed up for the class This can’t be right subject they wish to teach in and complete classes As of 2008, there has been a larger decline in the with. They watch as the front rows are scattered with that are focused on education. Another option is to teaching field than experts predicted. Around the only those select students. They can remember only complete a master’s degree. A master’s degree gives a U.S. public school districts have had a major decrease four years ago when the classroom was almost full teacher a better understanding in their field. in motivation to teach growing minds. These with nearly thirty people. “A person who wants to be a teacher has to students may not have had a teacher that inspired America has seen a steep decline in students who be passionate about two things, the subject and them to follow in their footsteps or even thought want to be teachers in states such as Michigan, Rhode teenagers,” said Latin Loy Norrix teacher Barbara about the future of their generation. Island, California, New Hampshire and Vermont. Felkel. With more viable job opportunities, college students There are more than just the requirements that are seeing that teaching is an unappealing career. make up being a teacher. There is something special FEATURE knightlifenews.com 13 POKEMON GO BRINGS CHILDHOOD DREAMS TO LIFE TaylorKrupianik trainer,” said senior Arya Malmgren. Many kids have imagined since the The game announcement has been early age of ten of becoming a Pokémon blowing up all over people’s social trainer, but sadly Pokémon is just a media, excitement and chatter. This game. However, “Pokemon Go” is going brings gaming to a whole new level. to change that. Wherever you go you can catch any The new game “Pokémon Go” by Pokémon. The app is free, but there are Nintendo is scheduled to be released some items you may have to pay for in in 2016. They have created an app for the app itself, such as the Poké Balls. As iOS and Android, and you can order a you go places the app will be able to tell sensor or a Bluetooth type accessory to you when you have an item you come put on a wristband or simply tuck into across and then collect what you need, your pocket. The wristband accessory just like in the original games. Buying is a Poké Ball, and what it’s supposed the Poké Balls or anything else is really to do is alert the app on your phone to just there to speed up the process. tell you when there is a Pokémon near “I’m looking forward to seeing up, and right on the screen you can barriers and creating a new way of by. When you get to a certain distance how they pull off Pokémon in the real see the graphics from all around you. gaming by bringing the Pokémon by the Pokémon, you can try to catch world and how battles will happen. Like in the handheld game when you world alive, even if it’s not technically it. This app will also allow you to trade I’m excited because you can run into catch the Pokémon, it records the time real. People will make new friends, Pokémon and to battle other people Pokemon anytime of the day,” said the date and where you met the pocket fight their Pokémon and trade other who have the same app. senior Donovan Sarno. monsters. When trading, it shows who Pokemon. “I’m excited to see what the app Once your app scans the the original owner was and where they Pokémon fans all over have been will look like and how everything will surrounding area, it will set off the met the Pokémon. waiting and getting excited as the game work. I’m excited to feel like a real watch or sensor and you can open it This game will be breaking down release gets closer. LGBT COMMUNITY STILL FEELS OPPRESSION IN TV SHOWS afraid to wear a dress and makeup gonna make [kids] gay, but censoring and perform onstage, as in the second the program is going to make them season’s episode, “Sadie’s Song.” Many think [being] gay is wrong,” said people find the show to be a jumpstart sophomore Madison Holmer. for kids towards LGBT acceptance. Fans of the show are outraged at “Steven Universe” recently aired an the censorship because of the double episode in the UK with edits to “make standards being used. It’s as simple it less gay,” according to the website as this; there is no censorship of the ggwnews. heterosexual themes of the show. After The original episode features an the dance scene mentioned earlier, intimate dance scene between two there is a kiss shared between a male AryaMalmgren female lead characters. In the edits and female character that was not cut In the Late 90’s a show called boy named Steven Universe who lives that the network made for its UK out of the UK edit, as well as the male “Teletubbies” was brought to the with three magical alien beings called audience, a part of the dance where and female characters having their own homes of people in Britain and the Crystal Gems who appear to be the two characters seem as though dance that ends with another kiss. America. The show was watched and female. Since the Gems are aliens, they they are about to kiss was removed There is also a perceived loved by millions of families with one draw their power from the gem that and cut away to another character. You relationship between Steven and his to four year-old children. is placed somewhere on their bodies. can watch the video in a side-by-side best friend Connie that any fan has yet Purple Teletubby Tinky-Winky, Therefore, their bodies are made of comparison between the UK edit and to hear of being censored. Is it assumed carrying a pink magic bag and wearing light, and they choose to appear female. the original on YouTube. that children can only handle intimate a tutu with a triangle on its head, Steven is the first half-human, half-gem “It kind of annoys me in a way relationships between male and female created a response from the Christian that has ever existed. because there’s nothing that bad that characters even after the progress community under the suspicion of Steven spends his days with his they censor. They shouldn’t have to do people have made for gay rights? being gay. friends, going on missions with the that, there’s nothing wrong with two “Twenty countries have approved “As a Christian I feel that role Gems, hanging out at his dad’s car characters that look like females loving the freedom to marry for same-sex modeling the gay lifestyle is damaging wash and getting acquainted with his each other,” said freshman Hannah couples nationwide: Netherlands, to the moral lives of children”, said inner thoughts and dreams. Newhouse. Belgium, Spain, Canada, South Southern Baptist pastor Jerry Falwell. The creator of “Steven Universe,” This is not the first time the Africa, Norway, Sweden, Portugal, Now, a number of years later, you Rebecca Sugar, shows support for the LGBT themes in Steven Universe has Iceland, Argentina, Denmark, France, would think that with the progress LGBT community and applies that to incited censorship in other parts of the Brazil, Uruguay, New Zealand, made in the fight for gay rights and the the theme of the show. One example of world. The show has been censored Britain, Luxembourg, Finland and number of countries allowing same-sex supporting the LGBT community is a in France, Germany and Russia in an Ireland,” according to the website marriage, children’s shows featuring lesbian relationship hidden throughout attempt to extinguish the homosexual freedomtomarry. possibly homosexual characters the entire first season of the show and relationships between characters. The list continues with Mexico, wouldn’t cause problems in this day then revealed at the season finale. The Examples include giving a Slovenia, and the United States. and age. You couldn’t be more wrong. relationship had been kept secret from character in a lesbian relationship Even though Britain is one of the Not only do these shows cause Steven because the characters wanted masculine features to make her appear many countries allowing same-sex controversy, but they are being edited to make it a surprise for him on his male, or lyrics being changed so a song marriages, they still feel the need to in other countries. One show, for next birthday. about a relationship is instead about censor they still feel the need to censor example, is “Steven Universe”. The program also blurs the lines friendship. such relationships in programs for The show centers around a young between gender roles as Steven is not “The thing is that the program’s not SEE LGBT PAGE 18 14 knightlifenews.com ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT ALEXANDER HAMILTON: AN AMERICAN FOUNDING FATHER MAKES HISTORY ON BROADWAY musical tells the story about a young, hot-headed very highly. immigrant Alexander Hamilton, driven by ambition “It’s brilliant, and so much so I’m pretty sure this and obsessed with his legacy, who made his way to is the only thing that [former vice president] Dick the top of politics and attended the Constitutional Cheney and I have agreed on,” said Obama, “It speaks Convention. The show tells of Hamilton’s personal to this vibrancy of American democracy, but also scandals and tragedies and how he eventually was the fact that it was made by these living, breathing, killed in a duel by friend and fellow politician Aaron flawed individuals who were brilliant.” Burr, Vice President under Thomas Jefferson. This Even though the historical figure Alexander musical is very unique in “modernizing” the 1700s. Hamilton is briefly covered in U.S History and AP As said in a radio ad, “Hamilton” is “a story of U.S History, most who have seen this musical or have America then, told by America now.” even listened to the music, have learned more about Junior and Broadway enthusiast Lena Wood Hamilton than in their classes. loves “Hamilton” and all that it stands for. “We mostly just talked about how he set up “I don’t think that the use of rap in the show is the national bank,” said sophomore and AP U.S just used to appeal to younger audiences, but it also History student Bonnie Bremer, “I didn’t know how allows so much more to be said with the span of important he was until this musical.” two and a half hours, more than traditional musical “He’s under appreciated,” said AP U.S and theater,” said Wood. European History teacher Matt Porco, “ he The soundtrack of “Hamilton” is on Spotify, [Hamilton] had such a big influence on that time iTunes, and YouTube; it is worth taking the time to period.” check out. Porco was then asked about what he thought “Probably the most noticeable aspect of the show about the musical in general. besides the score [the music] is the casting,” said “I think it’s great, but not a surprise,” said Porco, SophiaBoismier Wood, “This show gives a fantastic opportunity to “that generation is obviously so interesting. What’s Though many only know him as the guy on many black, Hispanic and Asian theater actors [by surprising is that Alexander Hamilton is the subject the ten dollar bill, Alexander Hamilton, one of the casting them in the lead roles] who otherwise would of it.” founding fathers of the United States, found his way not be working or would be stuck in ensemble roles For all the people that would be interested in to the Richards Rodgers Theater on Broadway in for their entire careers.” seeing this hit musical, but don’t want to travel all the New York City on August 6, 2015. Before making it As the hottest show currently on Broadway, way to New York City, Hamilton plans on touring to to Broadway, “Hamilton” made a debut performance “Hamilton” is sold out until September 2016 and has the PrivateBank Theater in Chicago this September. on Off-Broadway theater in New York City, the Public made over 1 million dollars at the box-office. For a founding father who was determined Theater, in February of 2015. Along with celebrities like Beyonce, Julia Roberts, to make a legacy for himself, it is safe to say that “Hamilton: An American Musical” is a “hip- and Jon Bon Jovi, President Barack Obama and his “Hamilton: An American Musical,” will keep hop musical” with lyrics, script, and music by family have seen this historical musical. Alexander Hamilton’s story alive for generations to Lin-Manuel Miranda and based off the biography According to Christian Holub from come. “Alexander Hamilton” by Ron Chernow. The “Entertainment Weekly,” Obama praised “Hamilton” JAZZ MUSIC ENTERTAINS NEW GENERATIONS The quartet members asked students different lot about jazz that I didn’t already know. Blue Lake types of questions, and students gave a variety [Camp] really got me into jazz and just seeing that of answers. When they asked a certain question people in our community love jazz just as much is regarding a one word response, students took really important to me,” said junior Alexis Terrian. guesses at the answer, but no one had the answer The quartet members quizzed the students about they were looking for: syncopation. their performance, asking “What tempo was that In jazz music, syncopation is used to make the song played in?” or “What are the different elements upbeats of the music louder and more pronounced. of jazz music?” However, musicians don’t always use it, at least not If you enjoy jazz music, the Western Jazz Quartet all at once. plays at The Union located in the South Kalamazoo When listening to these musicians play, you can Mall, Wednesday nights from 8:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m, hear all the work they put in. Their dedication shows and welcomes you to come and hang out for the night when they perform, but you can also see how much with your family and friends. fun they have while doing it. They move as they play, This group of musicians form the Western Jazz swaying to the beat of the music. The musicians Quartet. They have all studied at Western Michigan smiled when they saw the LN students clapping at University. Photo Credit / Alexis Martin the end of songs. They also smiled when students asked questions that went further into this style of AlexisMartin music. Have you ever wondered what it would feel like “We really enjoy knowing what the students are to be in a college jazz band? To go from place to place thinking,” said bassist Tom Knific, “Your crew has just to make music with your small jazz quartet? really interesting thoughts and questions.” On November 4th, 2015, the Western Jazz The students did have some funny and quartet came to play for the band and orchestra interesting questions and opinions. One student students at Loy Norrix by request of orchestra asked the model and cost of Rathbun’s saxophone. teacher Sandra Shaw. This brought out a laugh from both the students and The Western Jazz Quartet was formed in 1974. the quartet’s members, but the quartet had some Orchestra teacher Sandra Shaw enjoying the music being played by the Western Jazz Quartet. Being a Quartet, there are only four members: Tom questions for the students as well. The Quartet played “Happy Birthday” for Shaw. Knific (Bass), Keith Hall (Drums), Andrew Rathbun “I love jazz, so I really liked the performance. I Photo Credit / Alexis Martin (Saxophone), and Jeremy Sinskind (Piano). thought it was very educational and it taught me a ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT knightlifenews.com 15 SENIORS: Have you completed your Promise paperwork?

Your application AND scholarship acceptance forms are required before we pay out any tuition!

-Deadline for application- ASAP -Forms are available in the guidance office -Deadline for scholarship acceptance form: As soon as you’re accepted into a college/university

Contact Bob Jorth with questions at (269) 337-0037 or bjorthkalamazoopromise.com

16 knightlifenews.com ADVERTISEMENT DAILY FANTASY SPORTS SITES SLOWLY BEING SHUT DOWN industry. points based on the statistics they put Fantasy sports have been a part up in their game that day. Depending of American sports culture since the on how your league is set up, you may 1980s and have gained immense go head-to-head against another player popularity with the rise of the internet. or compete against a pool of other line- Fantasy leagues usually last the entire ups. The winners of these contests win season of whatever sport they are for, money, which most DFS competitors but recently, day-long fantasy leagues use to purchase their line-up for the have been gaining immense popularity. next day that they play. Fantasy sports give people a way to The two largest sites that run DFS be competitive and stay connected leagues are FanDuel and DraftKings. to current events in sports. Many According to Business Insider, each students at Loy Norrix participate in company receives between three and several different fantasy sports, ranging four million dollars in entries every anywhere from baseball to football. week. Loy Norrix senior Traver Parlato is After paying out prize money to the in a fantasy football league with several weekly winners, each company ends of his friends and is enjoying his first the week making somewhere around year of playing. two million dollars in profit, according Loy Norrix senior Traver Parlato looks up player stats and edits his fantasy “I like being competitive with my to Business Insider. Both sites have football lineup during his free time in class. Parlato is enjoying his first year friends in a fun and easy way while gained popularity by running countless playing in a fantasy football league with some of his close friends. being able to stay connected to ongoing ads on TV, advertising the large prizes Photo Credit / Zach Mason football games,” said Parlato. they offer to winners of leagues, and by player. Schneiderman then followed DFS differ from the type of fantasy sponsoring several professional sports ZachMason this declaration with a decision that sports that Parlato and other students leagues, including the NFL, MLB, NBA, On November 10th, 2015, dropped a bomb on the DFS industry, at Loy Norrix play in that they involve and NHL. New York Attorney General Eric filing a lawsuit on December 31st real money and, as insinuated in Since gaining popularity, both Schneiderman declared that daily asking for DFS companies to return their name, only last a day rather companies have fallen under the fantasy sports (DFS) constitute as all the money they made in the state of than an entire season. A competitor scrutiny of the government, especially illegal gambling under New York New York. would spend real money to purchase after a scandal involving a DraftKings State law. New York was the latest on On January 19th, 2016, Texas a certain amount of virtual money to employee winning prize money from the list of states attempting to either Attorney General Ken Paxton joined spend on adding athletes to their team. FanDuel. The DraftKings employee completely ban DFS or ban certain Schneiderman in declaring DFS as Generally, better players cost more leaked data about player selections in sites. Schneiderman ruled that daily violating Texas state law, and Texas money, and the prices of all players DraftKings leagues and used that inside fantasy sites violate Article 225 of the joins the ever-growing list of states vary from week to week based on how information to gain a competitive edge New York State Penal Code, claiming banning them. Three of the five most they have been performing recently and in his player selections on FanDuel. that they are based on a “material populated states (New York, Texas, their projected performance for that As a result, he ended up winning $350 element of chance” because the bets Illinois) have seen their attorney game. thousand. are placed on the results of real generals ban DFS, which poses a Their line-up then goes up against events outside of the control of the huge threat to the previously-growing other line-ups, and their players score See Fantasy Sports Page 19 High School Wrestlers Battle Skin Infections infections.” As for wrestlers, they are at PaulVallier the highest risk, due to the amount of Without a doubt, wrestling tops skin exposed, sweat and the transfer of all sports for being the dirtiest in high germs and spit. With that, many other school. Every time you touch someone matches take place on the same mats or something you transfer different with minimal cleaning. Loy Norrix germs, but imagine you’re drenched buys top of the line mat cleaner to help in sweat and grappling body-to-body prevent skin infections. against another person, the amount “Mats are mopped one time before of germs transferred in that time of a practice or tournament and one time wrestling alone, then the unsanitary after, all the time in between is never mats on top of that make it the nastiest cleaned unless there’s blood. No matter of all sports. how many people wrestle on the same “Wrestling is the nastiest sport, mat,” said Pace. you can’t even compare it to others,” Pace has had MRSA and a Staph said senior wrestler Jalen Pace. Infection in his time of wrestling, Junior Zeke Thomas slams his opponent in a match last year. While wrestling there’s always precaution to catching skin infections. Pace has had a lot of experience these are two of the less common of Photo Credit / Cori VanOstran wrestling, this season marks his the major skin infections, but are seventh year wrestling as he wrestles still highly contagious. MRSA shows and herpes simplex. Symptoms of the skin due to bacteria and fungus. for the Loy Norrix varsity team. up as red bumps filled with pus; impetigo are red rashes and blisters, According to “Journal of the Skin infections are becoming a staph infections have the same rash along with itching and pus from American Association of Nurse major issue for high school athletes. appearance but also come with sickness infected areas. For tinea corporis Practitioners,” “Approximately 2.6% According to “The Journal of the and flu-like symptoms. (ringworm) they start as small red of high school wrestlers have been American Osteopathic Association,” The more common skin infections rashes then continue to grow into impacted by the herpes simplex alone.” in 2011, “8.5% of high school injuries among high school wrestlers are large rings where the fungus is located. See SKin Infections Page 18 were related to contagious skin impetigo, tinea corporis (ringworm), Others include rashes and irritation to SPORTS knightlifenews.com 17 Loy Norrix Men’s Basketball Honors Veterans in Military Appreciation Game PaulVallier A big question often asked by coaches to their players is who do you truly play for? The common answers are their family or friends, but on January 19th, 2016, the Loy Norrix Knights varsity basketball team played for those who have kept us safe after many years, the veterans and current military of the United States. Organized by varsity basketball coach Matt Covault, the night was set up to honor current military members and veterans. The presentation of the flag by the U.S. National Guard started off the event, followed by honoring the veterans at halftime. Then following the game a reception for the honorees. “I am very proud to have played a small role in this event. The military does not get the respect and recognition that it deserves, so my hope is that this event will help to bring a bit more of that respect and honor to all of the amazing servicemen and servicewomen in attendance,” said Covault. Many players of the Knights varsity basketball team honored family members who have defended our country. GK Wells- Senior GK Wells- Lindsey hugs his The Knights players Grant Mitchell mother during the halftime ceremony and Armonte Tolbert stand together Lindsey (Mother and Father), Jake Link and at the military appreciation game. His before freethrows, sporting the Max Link (Both Grandfathers), DQ Wiggins mother served in the Air Force. military jerseys that read Courage and (Dad and Uncle) and coach Matt Covault Photo Credit / Lauren Johnson Duty. Photo Credit / Lauren Johnson (Father). The game was dedicated to all of them and anyone else who has put their life on the line for our freedom. “I hope that by holding this event, the student body realizes how lucky they are to have their freedom and also be able to associate the cost of their freedom by witnessing the military members at the Senior Grant Mitchell in LN Camoflauge Uniform event,” said Covault. The stands were packed with parents, LGBT FROM PAGE 14 SKI SkinN INF InfectionsECTIONS FROM From PAGE 17 Page 17 military personnel, veterans and excited Other sports have some skin contact but none to the level of fans ready to cheer on the Knights as they children. “I think that’s pretty bad because, wrestling then on top of that you never know how clean your opponent took on the Battle Creek Central Bearcats. is. There’s no rules or regulations of how clean a person must be. The The men’s varsity team sported new school not saying all kids, but some kids figure out their sexuality before high school decisions of your opponents cleanliness can determine some risk of your colored camouflage jerseys donated by the chances of acquiring skin infections. When it comes to skin infections army. Each jersey had a different word like I did, and I think it’s a good thing that they’re [the creators of the show] officials check each wrestler prior to each match. on the back to show what it takes to be a “The thing needed most is getting kids to shower after practices, soldier: honor, courage, respect, loyalty, making them lesbians,” said junior Jaylan Shields. and to wash practice gear, it will significantly make a difference,” said integrity and duty. Loy Norrix teacher Sean Bergan. Bergan used to be the varsity wrestling “It was awesome to honor veterans and The viewers of “Steven Universe” are made up of primarily elementary coach at Loy Norrix. give them what they deserve, and the game When you are infected with any contagious skin infection, you overall is a big step towards a conference school kids, but people of all ages watch it. People who struggle with body image are supposed to sit out and not have any contact with anybody until championship,” said senior Jake Link. completely taken care of and approved by a doctor. However, skin Link honored both of his grandfathers and sexuality are thrilled that they are being represented by these characters. infections often aren’t caught right away and continue to spread when as they both served in the Air Force. others wrestle with the skin infections. The Knights put up a battle, going back By simply photoshopping over and taking out parts of the show, the people Loy Norrix uses the procedure of cleaning once before and once and forth until the final buzzer when Battle after a practice. Loy Norrix coaches take high precaution by purchasing Creek Central hit a three-pointer for the win. who are represented are being snuffed out. It’s not fair to Rebecca Sugar and anti-bacterial skin creams that kill the bacteria right on contact and can The Knights lost 57-56, but sometimes the prevent the skin from allowing in the bacteria. game isn’t all about the wins and losses, it is it’s not fair to the viewers, no matter what country they live in. “Most coaches do very well and buy skin care creams then mop on the people you truly play for. top of that, and make the game as clean as it can be,” said Bergan. Sports can all get gritty and nasty, but without a doubt wrestling trumps them all. Attempting to eliminate contagious skin infections throughout the sport could solve the issue on a seasonal basis each year.

18 knightlifenews.com SPORTS STEVEN FINLEY QUALIFIES FOR STATE

like qualifying for the conference meet After all his dedication and and qualifying for the state meet,” said commitment to qualifying for states, Mahar. Finley achieved his goal on January Finley started aiming for state 5th, 2016 at Kalamazoo Central High during his sophomore year, but it School. Finley swam a 1:03.42 in the wasn’t until junior year that his skills 100 breaststroke and qualified for state really began to develop. by .17 seconds. “I started doing everything “There’s nothing better [than] an athlete could, eating healthy, when you work hard for a goal and stretching, drinking water, and doing you achieve it. [This] is something I’ll Kalamazoo United [during the off remember forever,” said Finley. season],” said Finley. However, even after achieving his In his junior year, he missed the cut goal, Finley knows there’s still work to for state for the 100 yard breaststroke be done. by a mere 0.08 seconds; his time was “I’m setting milestones for myself 1:03.51 seconds, whereas the qualifying [before I go to state]. I hope to break time was 1:03.59. the school record (1:02.12 in the 100 “[Missing the state cut last season] breaststroke), and then a month later made me hungry to work harder, [so] or maybe even sooner, I would like to I started to train year round,” said get under a minute,” said Finley. Finley. Since the season is just beginning, Senior Steven Finley finishes his race in the 100 yard breaststroke. His hard work Previously, Finley has played Finley has a couple of months to train and dedication pays off after four years of training. football during the fall sports season, before state, which is on March 11 & Photo Credit / Herbert Todd since the 6th grade (excluding 12th. freshman year). However, Finley “We have such a focus group and AudraPenny of his friends were also joining, decided to drop football his senior year large group who are students of the Senior Steven Finley has been influencing his decision to become part to continue training towards swimming sports and they have set their goals swimming for Loy Norrix’s team all of the LN swim team. in the state meet. high and I have just confirmed it as four years of high school. Finley was After his freshman year, Finley was Going into this season, coach a coach. We’re looking to have our first introduced to swimming at the hooked on swimming and his coach, Mahar continued to keep him best finish in my career and one of the YMCA where he would swim for fun, Paul Mahar, took notice. concentrated on his goal. better years in history,” said Mahar. but once he reached high school, his “Coming in his freshmen year, he “I think that it takes a good mentor mom encouraged him to go out for the had little experience but as he grew in to help make any top athlete. He had a team. the sport, he found parts of swimming goal and he needed somebody like Along with his mom’s that he truly loved and that gave him myself to keep him focused,” said encouragement, Finley knew some some motivation to look higher up, Mahar.

FROM FANTASY SPORTS PAGE 18 claim that DFS constitutes as illegal be sponsored by an illegal business, disputing potential fixed outcomes of In an attempt to stem the gambling because they rely on the and this would result in a huge games (Deflategate, poor officiating, controversy, both FanDuel and outcome of events outside the control conflict of interest. It would be like if not having a clear rule defining what a DraftKings banned their employees of the player, and certain people can Budweiser sponsored the New York catch is, etc.). Professional sports really from using any DFS site, but the public have an unfair advantage based on Yankees during prohibition. If DFS can’t afford another controversy. is still skeptical about the possibility their ability to gain access to inside companies are forced to terminate their Currently there are 27 states that the outcomes of DFS games could information, similar to insider trading sponsorships, professional sports in questioning the legality of DFS, and be influenced by access to inside in the stock market. America will lose a huge supporter. it is quite possible that the issue will information. According to Legal Sports Report, reach the federal government in the According to the Seton Hall Sports it would be like 16 NFL teams are sponsored by coming months of this controversy. Poll, “54 percent of people polled FanDuel and 12 are sponsored by As of now, the only DFS sites banned think that DFS should be legal, and 38 if budweiser DraftKings. The NBA signed a deal with in Michigan are StarsDraft and Star percent said DFS should be banned sponsored FanDuel in November of 2014, and Fantasy Leagues, neither of which are (nine percent said they don’t know). 50 the MLB and NHL both signed with major players in the DFS market like percent of people polled believe that the new york DraftKings in March and November FanDuel and DraftKings. These bans DFS are a form of gambling as opposed 2014, respectively. could indicate that Michigan may be to the 31 percent who think it is a game yankees during If DFS becomes illegal it would one of the next states to take a long of skill (19 percent don’t know).” prohibition cast a huge shadow over these teams look at whether or not DFS constitutes After the DraftKings/FanDuel and leagues for investing in an illegal illegal gambling. So if you were scandal, many state governments began Although DFS companies are gambling organization. This would planning on attempting to win money to take a closer look at the legality of fighting these states’ decisions in court, not be beneficial to the public image of using a DFS site when you turn 18, you DFS. So far, six states have completely many other states are slowly following many leagues, which has been recently may not get your opportunity. banned DFS, including Nevada, home suit and banning DFS. This poses a tainted with the recent problems of the gambling capital of the United huge problem for DFS companies: involving players involved in domestic States, Las Vegas. what will happen to their sponsorships violence situations, performance Several other states have banned with professional sports teams if DFS enhancing drug usage, and the issues other specific sites, most commonly becomes illegal in the United States? in the NFL specifically with people DraftKings and FanDuel. These states Many sports teams would then

SPORTS knightlifenews.com 19 THE LOVE COST OF THE GAME ChrisHybels As the winter sports season starts, we take a look at the actual costs athletes pay to play their game. Different portss require various pieces of equipment and these items can come at a high cost to the athletes. In basketball, athletes can spend around twenty dollars just for the right pair of socks, while a swimmer will spend hundreds on a suit that will only last about five uses. Photos Courtesy of Kristi Schau- Johnson, Cori VanOstran and Chris Hybels BASKETBALL WRESTLING Freshman Ebube Okpechukwu HOCKEY Senior Jalen Pace Senior Zach Mason

Headgear: $30 Helmet: $80-100

Shoulder Pads: $80-100

Elbow Pads: $60-80

Gloves: $100 Basic Costs: $100 Multiple Singlets: $60-80 Shin Pads: $80-100 Stick: $200 Socks: $18 Knee Pads: $20 Skates: $400-1000 Shoes: $80 Shoes: $60-80 Rink/Jerseys/ Bags Costs: $2,000 MEN’S SWIMMING Miscellaneous: $100 AND DIVING COMPETITIVE CHEER BOWLING Senior Steven Finley Freshman Porshya Smith Senior Haruto Kumasaka Swim Caps: $10 Goggles: $20-30

Bows: $10

Crop Top: $13 Team Shirts: $15 Multiple Suits: Ball: $150 Each $20-40 Pom Poms: $20

Spandex High Tech Suits Shorts: $6 (for high levels of competition) : $100-450 Warm Ups: $35

Competition Suits: $40 Bags: $30

Warm Ups: $65 Shoes: $50 Shoes: $80

20 knightlifenews.com SPORTS