Vol 10 issue #3 by Central Stampede

Central

Stampede Friday, December 10, 2004

Portage Central High School 8135 S. Westnedge Ave. Portage, MI 49002

50 cents

President under FIRE By Ryan Drake

I STAFF WRITER

The king with the broken crown? Nate Bauman answers his critics.

Mark Mason/STAMPEDE

“I don’t mind if people doubt me, it just makes me try that much harder. The difﬁculty won’t stop me from making this a good year.” Nate Bauman

Student Council president

n and out of the halls of Portage Central, students and teachers look to its student government for the leading edge of ingenuity and initiative in the school’s functioning. It is then the student government that looks to its president for further leadership. Enter Student Council President Nate Bauman, whose highly-energetic but unconventional approach to leadership has risen more than a few eyebrows this year. The respect for Bauman as president stems from his projected image as the popular kid everyone can relate to. His animated nature in the hallways and his enthusiasm for the student body cannot be denied, said Mark Sutherland, ﬁrst-year Student Council adviser. “So far with the responsibilities of president, he has done very well,” Sutherland said. “Nate’s always energetic, espe-

cially when it comes to the nature of the student body.” But when an organization loses its faith in its president, the vital chain of leadership often disintegrates. It is this unrest that has made for some uneasy moments amongst the council members, at least according to one Student Council member who requested anonymity. “No one in Student Council agrees with (Bauman); he tries to make it that way, but it doesn’t work out,” the council member said. “It just doesn’t seem like people really respect him.” Compared to his predecessors, Bauman is not the calm, evenhanded All-Academic scholar that people might expect from a Student Council president. Instead, Bauman insists that his aspiration to lead Student Council comes from a sincere desire to improve Portage Central. “I’m not being president so I can put it on a college application,” Bauman said. “I don’t have big goals or big plans for the future – so all the more for me to put into this school. It’s important to have a president who’s more like everyone else, than the elite of everyone else.” His skills for public speaking

Knight steps down after 34 years By Cody Ginter SPORTS EDITOR

As a player, a coach, a teacher, a father and a husband, Bob Knight directly inﬂuenced the lives of more than 1,000 players. He has been involved in coaching for 40 years and recently retired after serving as a coach and mentor to PC football players for 34 years. He came to PC in 1971, and in a matter of years, Knight turned the disgrace of a football team into a team respected throughout West Michigan. By the time the 1977 season came to a close, the Mustangs were second in the state after losing 17-7 despite the efforts of thenquarterback and former NFL star Pete Metzelaars. Over the course of his tenure, Knight compiled a 217-108 record with a .668 winning percentage, he also won or shared 14 conference titles and appeared in the playoffs 11 times. Throughout that time, he was a leading member of the community and taught his players lessons that would last not only while they played football, but also throughout

their lives. Knight’s impact will be felt for years to come as you look at all the former players of Knight’s who are now teaching and coaching at Portage Central. They not only respected him enough to ﬁght for him within the out-of-bounds lines, but also decided to come back and coach under him for many years. Knight, who turned 64 last month, coached with a long list of outstanding coaches. Never in the history of Portage Central has a man had such an impact on his players and those members of the community, they say. “I was fortunate to have a lot of success thanks to good players, coaches, attitudes, and overall good teamwork year after year,” Knight said. One thing that enabled Knight to connect with his players was that he didn’t just know a lot about football from watching, he had a load of experience within the game as well. In high school in Adrian, Knight played quarterback, running back and fullback and then went on to play running back, cornerback, tight end and defensive end over

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four years at the University of Wyoming. At Wyoming while majoring in physical education, Knight served as a graduate assistant to the football team before moving on as assistant coach at perennial powerhouse Muskegon. Coach Knight knew enough about the game himself to the point where he could get on the ﬁeld himself. “I remember when he taught a blocking drill and broke his hand doing it,” former assistant Mike McCloughan said. Knight, with the help of his wife, Nonie, to whom Knight credits many of his successes, has consistently come back year after year with the same enthusiasm and passion for the game that one needs in order to be an effective coach. After all his time here in Portage, many began to wonder whether his energy would ever run out, After 34 years, however, recently he decided that it was time to step down as Portage Central’s most recognized ﬁgure. “I couldn’t keep coaching and have the time to visit with my children and grandchildren,” Knight said. “It came time

where I had to choose between the two options, and I felt that I made the right decision for my wife and I at this time.” Despite a career that spanned 325 games, Knight couldn’t pinpoint just one that stuck out in his memory, nor could he pick out one of his favorite pieces of memorabilia from over the years. “I just don’t know, if you reﬂect on the past,” he said, “it really just means that you’re giving up on the future and I guess I’ve just never been ready to do that.” A man always known for his constant barking and hollering at his players is not as hard underneath the surface as many may think. Underneath he is a very sentimental man who enjoys the game and the people with who he’s involved. “The one thing I will miss the most is the players,” Knight said. “Despite what they may think I really liked coaching them each and every year. I would like to thank all of my former players and coaches for all of their efforts and what we were able to achieve together.” Knight doesn’t regret any of the

Vol. 10 Issue 3

are his strength, Bauman said, as proven by his motivational speeches given at pep assemblies and other public events. The assessment of his listening capabilities, however, brings his aptitude for leading under further skepticism. “He doesn’t listen to anybody’s advice,” the Student Council member said. “If he has an idea, then it’s his way or the highway. We (the Student Council) actually had an entire day devoted to standing up to him.” Passersby still recognize him as the always friendly and openly accepting guy who dresses as Richard Simmons for Spirit Week. Despite his critics, Bauman still stands tall to the challenges of council president and still keeps an optimistic view for the rest of the year. “I don’t mind if people doubt me, it just makes me try that much harder,” Bauman said. “The difﬁculty won’t stop me from making this a good year.” With Student Council events like the blood drive, winter dances and assemblies coming soon, it will be up to the leadership of Bauman to prove himself to his detractors.

decisions he made or their outcomes except for maybe a few personal relationships. However, he does regret one thing about how he retired. “The only thing I regret is that I didn’t announce retirement my face-to-face with my players,” he said. “I wanted to announce it at the banquet but I wanted it to be a celebration of their season and not about me retiring.” When it is all said and done, a Courtesy of Roundup great era in Knight ﬁres up student body at Homethe annals of coming assembly. PC history has come to an end, and with all that experience, and encourage your players to Knight has a few tips to leave continue to do well on and off behind to future coaches. the ﬁeld,” he said. “In order to succeed you So as next year approaches, have to have a good passion the whisper ever-present for the game, be fair to your of be will “Hogwash”, players, work hard all the time, all that is left of a 34-

page 10 cheap christmas gifts • page 12 stand-up comic comeback • page 14 plagued sports teams

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Which government teacher once sported 1980s big hair?

Poll: Which winter activity do you enjoy the most? Skating 5% Sledding 40%

Snowboarding 33%

Watching from the lodge 8% Other 12% Skiing 29% Poll of 127 students by STAMPEDE staff Graphic by Mark Mason/STAMPEDE

News

Stampede

page two

December 10, 2004

Kudos! Band sets high standards Congratulations to the Mustang Marching Band on competing the second most successful season in school history. With their theme “African Sanctus,” they placed 11th in Class AA at the RCA Dome in Indianapolis, surpassing their score from last year. They were one of 100 bands from 24 states competing.

hallways and city streets

Chronic skippers Sophomore lived life with zest have met their match MARGAUX HAJEK 1988-2004

By Laura Smith

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

As leaves blowing in the wind are replaced by snowﬂakes, a vibrant presence is missing from the halls of Portage Central. After battling secondary health problems as a result of a liver disease, Margaret (Margaux) Paige Hajek passed away on Nov. 10, surrounded by family and friends. According to friends Molly Carpenter and Ashley Covell, Margaux was a “wild, very funny, and friendly” person, who did not let her adversities get the best of her. “I love Margaux, I wish she was here, and she is,” Carpenter said. Margaux’s positive outlook on life and her sense of humor leave intangible legacies in the hearts and minds of her friends and family. Peg Hajek, Margaux’s mother, has total faith that Margaux is in a better place. “Margaux’s probably up there redecorating heaven in hot pink,” Hajek said. Hajek also said that Margaux was a very loving daughter, and it was “such a gift” to have her for 16 years. In addition, the Hajek family is donating a bench in Margaux’s memory to the front turn-around area, where many students wait for rides home. Dealing with the loss of a friend is difﬁcult at

Freshmen give to Be There The Be There Foundation offers their sincere thanks to the freshman class for donating $155 to support needy teenagers around the world.

All-Conference honors Congratulations to all PC fall athletes who were named All-Conference to Southwestern Michigan Athletic Conference (SMAC) teams: Sam Marvin, Laura Haskins, Lisa Keyte and Leah Tundevold (cross country); Andrew Perry, Tim Mowry, Jordan Sherrod, Matt Stringham, Cody Ginter and Brian Haske (football); Brandon Lemons (golf); Eric Alexander, Tom McCurdy, Nate Salemka, Josh Comins and Ryan Brown (soccer); Dayna Lohrberg (basketball); Lori Morton, Katie Rence, Kendall Barry, Kim Betz, Beth Cyr, Sara Iseminger, Kristen Ray, Shelby Collier and Katelyn Clancy (swimming); Cameron Chatman, Dina Salman and Morgan Peterson (tennis).

Photo courtesy the Hajek family

Margaux Hajek (right) is shown here celebrating an important milestone with her older sister, Chrissy.

any stage of life, especially as a teenager. Many of Marguax’s classes are completing a project or writing to help cope with their emotions. Cory Zann’s English 10 class is making a memory book, with each classmate designing a page. “She was a very enthusiastic student,” Zann said, “very involved, loved her classmates, was committed to everything that she did, just a great person.” Like many, Zann will miss her smile and sense of humor. At a highly attended memorial service, friends found comfort in each other. “It helped, everyone was there for each other, there was lots of hugs,” Carpenter said.

“Margaux’s probably up there redecorating heaven in hot pink.” Peg Hajek

Margaux’s mom While it seems unfair that someone so full of life and laughter was taken from us, one must remember that Margaux had 16 great years of life. Her life will leave an impact on students, families and friends longer than we will ever know.

Black History Club to promote awareness By Malkam Wyman NEWS EDITOR

Football team ends perfect run

A senior has undertaken a onewoman effort to acknowledge some of the leading historical ﬁgures of all time and has decided to help organize a Black History Club. “I came from Chicago where they had a Black History Club,” said Erica Dixon, a senior. “I noticed that here, during Black History Month, nothing was being celebrated.” Dixon mentioned that she’s wanted to do something for

Congratulations to the freshman football team, which ﬁnished with a 9-0 season and won the Central Division Championship. Editor-in-chief Alison Beranek compiled these Kudos.

December Sunday

right or wrong, it’s our lives, and it’s our decision.” STAFF WRITER In counterpoint, Assistant Principal Denny Roehm feels Individuals who look to junior that, “the most important thing Rob Forgey for inspiration may is for students to be in class in order to get a good education.” now want to reconsider. Although the rumors of a Forgey has racked up more than 60 2:50s for truancy, and new attendance policy are false, while it hasn’t stopped him no longer are any absences from incurring more unexcused going unnoticed. In past years, absences, it has definitely most students could get away with a few dampened his mood. unexcused “On a typical absences school day you will “...trust me, 61 without many more often find me 2:50s is much penalties at home than at worse than but this is school,” he said. no longer “I typically decide just staying in the case. to do absolutely school.” The school everything in my realizes that power to stay as far Rob Forgey the student’s away from school Junior safety lies in as possible. But their hands trust me, 61 2:50’s is much worse than just staying and they recognize they are liable for all stray students. in school.” Not only do students get Although his is the most extreme of situations, this notices of their absences, but scenario is relived many times also the parents can receive a day by high school students, a phone call or an e-mail if and lately staff is making it a bit requested. For example through harder for truants to get off the Parent Internet Viewer (P.I.V.), parents can receive e-mail alerts hook. This year, administrators within the hour if their child have adopted a more efficient is missing from class. So far, system to track unexcused parents seem to be appreciative absences and decrease the of the staff’s efforts. If you think amount of students skipping. parental involvement is bad, the Now nearly halfway through consequences of skipping school the school year, students are are much worse. Each hour you finally beginning to notice the have an unexcused absence is two detentions, and a whole day crack-down. “At this point in our education really begins to add up. Next time you contemplate it’s up to us (the students) to decide whether or not we’re skipping that next class, think going to show up,” junior Alicia again because you’re going to Sperling said. “Whether that’s face the consequences.

By Lauren Stine

2004 Monday

Black History Month ever since she was a freshman. “I feel like the reason that this Black History Club is being started is to make other people see how diverse our school can be,” Dixon said. Because of the lack of awareness in the school, the central focus of the club will be to encourage teachers and students to acknowledge and pay tribute to the black historical ﬁgures who tried to make a difference. Sam Richards, a hall monitor and the club’s adviser, wants to focus on black history, but also

Tuesday

raise awareness of black holidays and black scientists in the area, as well as theatrical productions regarding black history. “Without a doubt, the blacks are a minority in this school,” Richards said. Richards places speciﬁc emphasis on the need for black awareness in the school. He wants people of all walks of life to join the club. Richards says that due to the expected diversity in the club, people would become more aware of black culture. Students from all walks of life are welcome to take part. “There is no racial

Wednesday

Thursday 10

5 6

Kwanzaa begins

Orchestra concert 7:30 p.m. auditorium First day of winter

discrimination,” Richards said. “It doesn’t make sense to close off the club and try to provide understanding.” Dixon suggests that teachers take at least one day during Black History Month to spread little-known information about black leaders. “I also want to start this club because it seems like we need a spot in the school,” she said. “We can barely get in school plays and teachers don’t really do anything special, not even a day about any important black leaders.” Dixon also hopes that the

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Friday

Black History Club can host an assembly during school at the end of February. The premise would be a historical game called “I Am.” Dixon envisions members of the Black History Club performing with bits of information about a person involved in black history that they are to portray. “We’re going to try and go inside the person,” Dixon says, “be the person instead of just reading about them.” The club is expected to have its ﬁrst meeting on Dec. 2 and every Thursday after school from 3 to 4 p.m.

Saturday

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Reminder: FINAL EXAMS ARE JANUARY 18-21

News

Stampede

page three

December 10, 2004

hallways and city streets

In ws New science courses kick off at PC N e Brief

Students appear to like ﬂexibility of classes By Amanda VanderMeulen SPECIAL

TO THE

STAMPEDE

The premise was really quite simple: the physics class was studying speed and distance in a recent experiment. The tools, however, were a bit unconventional. A brave student, a helmet, a rope and bean bags were used to demonstrate that rate of speed affects segment distance. Students stood around in clusters in the hallway, admiring the unusual lesson plan that brought them from their desks and into the hallway for handson experimentation. The new semester science curriculum is well under way, and as the speed-distance experiment indicates, students are being schooled in a wide range of sciences. According to Science Chair Jon Taylor the new curriculum allows students to have a solid basis in each of the core sciences – earth science, biology, chemistry and physics. State benchmarks for curriculum require that students must have information in all the science ﬁelds. Prior to the change, students taking one-year courses generally took biology freshman year, chemistry sophomore year and physics junior year. However, for the higher-level IB courses, two years of a select science class are required. With the new system, students can take the required four semester courses and then, junior year, begin to pursue either IB or extended courses instead of

physics. Last year, one parent group opposed to the curriculum change formed a website to protest these specific changes, but the Board of Education approved the curriculum despite their opposition. Still the group remains vocal. “College-bound students should be allowed to take full-year courses so they meet the admissions requirements of all mainstream colleges,” said Mark Austin, chairperson of Portage Parents for Quality Education. This parent group wanted more choices for the students, and district leaders say that is just what they received. During junior and senior years alone, there are 12 science courses available that students may take in each of the avenues the students studied their first two years. With the new change, all the state requirements are matched and according to Portage Public Schools, the shorter courses should not have any negative effect on college admissions. In fact, by allotting two years (junior and senior years) for more rigorous courses, students can take IB courses for college credits. Although the semester courses allow for more flexibility later on, “sophomores are having the hardest time adapting because they had biology last year and now are taking the semester courses,” Taylor said. Sophomore Ashley Schmidt agrees. “I’m with a lot of freshmen in my class. It makes me feel

Directories now cost $5

The once generously provided student directories are now $5 each. The directory, previously provided by Student Council for free, is now supplied by the Parents of Portage Central (PPC). Student Council adviser Mark Sutherland states that originally both organizations would produce the school directories, ultimately resulting with double the amount needed in past years. This year, Student Council has decided to step back and allow the PPC to distribute them.

Laptops delayed once again

Photo by Mark Mason/STAMPEDE

Kelly Foster (left) and Trey Popp perform one of the new phsyics experiments during fourth hour. Some say the unconventional materials make the class a more enjoyable experience.

so young,” said Schmidt, who agrees that the classes yield more ﬂexibility, but “sometimes the class feels rushed, like we don’t have time to cover all the topics.” The emphasis of the program

is to “cover fewer topics in each of the sciences but with greater depth… now every student has knowledge in every science subject,” Taylor said. “In the past they had a gap in their learning.”

Taylor said the students are adapting well, but it will be a long process. “We won’t really see (the results) until the sophomores enter their higher-level courses,” he said.

of the components as well as this drastic change began last year on the School Effectiveness completing exams. “I think this is a good idea Team (SET) team. The SET because I think it will force some team is a gathering of teachers, administrators students to and parents who try harder meet each month to learn the “I think this to discuss topics m a t e r i a l . is a good idea of concern Having to building-wide, pass two because it will such as the parts will force some stugrading criteria. show that According to a student dents to try Chuck Schira, has actually harder.” a member of absorbed Katie Munn the SET team, what is teachers had t a u g h t , ” Junior expressed junior Katie concern over Munn said. Many students, like Munn, see the existing system. Before, a student could work this new modiﬁcation as a good hard on the ﬁrst marking period progression for the school. The decision-making behind and earn a B. They could then

do no work at all the second marking period, fail their exam, and yet still pass the class. The SET team then surveyed PC teachers, ﬁnding that 85 percent felt students should be required to pass a minimum of two of the three grade components and 63 percent thought they should have to take the ﬁnal exam. They agreed that the criteria should be changed, but because the SET team only has jurisdiction over our building, they had to go to the Curriculum and Instruction Council (CIC), who governs the entire district. The CIC approved the change. “It will make people study harder. They will have to know things from both semesters because things from both

semesters are on the final exam,” junior Caroline Braaksma said of the plan. It is not expected to drastically affect grades schoolwide, but is rather presumed to affect the students who are currently only passing one of the three components of grading, or students who don’t take all of their exams. As far as weighted grading, nothing will change. Each marking period will count three-sevenths and the final exam will count one-seventh of the semester grade. When surveyed, 54 percent of PC teachers felt that the final exam is not weighted enough. Even though this is the majority, because it was so close the SET team decided not to change this aspect of the grading system.

SET desires rise in achievement By Allie Reid SPECIAL

TO THE

STAMPEDE

Slackers may be caught off guard this semester. A new grading plan, which places more emphasis on achievement, was set to take effect at the beginning of this semester for all students. There are three components upon which grades are determined: the first marking period, the second marking period and the final exam. Under the former plan a student only needs to pass one of the three to pass a class, and it is not necessary to take the final exam to pass the class. This semester, to get a passing grade, students will be required to pass two

Students and teachers waiting breathlessly for mobile computer labs can expect to wait a little longer. The delay is being attributed to ﬂaws in the design of the carts and battery life. “The high school was supposed to have at least one mobile lab last year,” said Paige Eaton the building technician. Payment for the laptops did not come out of the school’s budget but rather from property taxes that voters decided should go toward education. Laptops were expected to arrive this month, but a delay is likely.

Suspects caught in breaking and entering The suspects who broke into the school over Thanksgiving weekend have been apprehended. There were three perpetrators, all of whom do not attend this school. They were responsible for damage to the front ofﬁce door, broken windows and a cut phone line for the payphone in the front hall. The perpetrators also damaged a storage door and stole a considerable amount of money from Taco Bob’s restaurant. The stolen property was recovered in the car of one suspect. Ofﬁcer Ray Scott said each perpetrator faces three counts of breaking and entering and faces a total of 30 years in prison.

Briefs compiled by News Editor Malkam Wyman.

Portage Central Student Council

This year we’ll be doing the annual angel tree toy drive. Bring in toys for needy children on December 1 through December 10. Don’t forget, the class who brings the most toys gets a pizza party.

Still...doing good stuff.

President: Nate Bauman • Vice President: Katie Brink • Treasurer: Chris Burns Secretary: Jenni Leung • Parliamentarian: Jennie Perrin

Stampede

page four

December 10, 2004

View opinions and editorials

Adam Bergeon

Our View

..........................

Pledge should be an option, not a mandate Pride and honor are important to America and is required to unite the nation. Knowledge of our struggle and history is crucial to understanding our country, and the Pledge of Allegiance, our national anthem and preamble to the Constitution are easy to read and are accurate portrayals of the purpose and ambitions of our government. But we believe Michigan legislators went too far recently when the Senate passed a bill in regards to patriotism in schools, declaring that all public schools, K-12, will recite the Pledge of Allegiance before class starts each day. While this does foster patriotism, it is our opinion that making such an act mandatory is an inappropriate action. Many schools within the state, not to mention the elementary schools in this district, voluntarily recite the Pledge of Allegiance each morning. This practice became more prevalent in the aftermath of 9/11 and continues the nation over. Many believe that this pledge fosters love for our country and helps our youth understand our nation. But forcing this act to be done each day will only cause the Pledge of Allegiance to slowly lose meaning and importance. Making it a ritual will cause students to view the pledge as a chore and the symbolism and message will be lost. Declarations of patriotism should be left as a choice to school districts and schools. The national anthem is already sung at school sporting events and that action is suitable and stands as a positive way of expressing our admiration for our country. Perhaps the Michigan Senate should spend more time ﬁnancing money for schools instead of forcing schools to obey this legislation.

Central

Stampede Editor-in-Chief -Alison Beranek News Editor - Malkam Wyman View Editor - Alex Clothier Focus Editor - Dana Cronyn Vibe Editor - Meredith Gage Sports Editor - Cody Ginter Photo Editor - Danielle Duplissis Graphics Editor - Mark Mason Business Manager - Nate Salemka Staff Writers - Amanda Boltrick Ryan Drake Allie Morris Lauren Stine Andrew Thornton Photographers - Laura Smith Michelle Beranek Autumn Roodbeen Sports Writers - Tyler Polderman Cody Ginter Staff Artist - Nolan Flynn Adviser - Cheryl Braford The Central Stampede publishes approximately one publication a month, primarily by the Journalism II class at Portage Central High School, 8135 S. Westnedge, Portage, MI 49002. It also uses work from Journalism I students. Ofﬁce: (269) 323-5218 Fax: (269) 323-5290 Room 306 e-mail: pcstampede@fast-mail.org The Central Stampede is a member of the Columbia Scholastic Press Association (CSPA), the Great Lakes Interscholastic Press Association (GLIPA), and the Michigan Interscholastic Press Association (MIPA). The Stampede is printed by the Kalamazoo Gazette, 401 S. Burdick, Kalamazoo. The purpose of the Central Stampede is to act as an open forum for students of Portage Central. It will do so by examining the issues affecting the school,

Next four years to yield success President Bush needs our support George W. Bush has done an extraordinary job during his four years in office, and we can expect to see more of the same. In his first year of presidency, President Bush was faced with a difficult and heart-breaking job – leading the nation after the 9/11 terrorist attacks. President Bush dealt with the situation by going after dictators and terrorists. 9/11 hurt our economy, and President Bush has also done an excellent job of bringing it back up to speed. When election time came around, both candidates campaigned very well, but the Bush administration campaigned better. President Bush and Vice President Dick Cheney made a great effort in going around the country to get support and get fellow Americans to vote for them. Bush outlined his plans for

the future more effectively than Sen. John Kerry. Kerry wasn’t clear on what he wanted for America and its citizens. He didn’t stick to one side and was a “flip-flopper” in the way that he voted against certain bills that he later voted in favor of. The next four years under President Bush will be a time to make America better. Bush has big plans for the next four years. On the top of his agenda are the privatization of Social Security, the Iraq War and the war on terrorism and a change in tax codes. President Bush has done an excellent job with the war on terror. In the near future, Iraq will be under control and have a democratic government in place. America’s troops will be fighting insurgents and protecting the lives of the Iraqis and their fellow soldiers. Bush will work even harder to

eliminate terrorists. Many of the new tax cuts will help a signiﬁcant portion of American citizens. They include reduction in the marriage penalty, the phase-out of the death tax, the increase in small business exemptions, and the expiration of the 10percent tax bracket. If these tax reliefs are not made permanent, the income tax will take more out of the economy than ever before. Under Bush’s tax cuts, people who have a lower income will pay fewer taxes. It is simply a solid economic idea because those families cannot afford to pay a higher amount of taxes. They need to put food on the table for their families, and Bush is helping them to do that. Bush has other ideas as well. The president will outlaw many

types of abortion, crack down on terrorists and terrorist groups, work to enhance education in high schools, enforce drug laws and put a great amount of effort into making homeland security the best it can be. Contrary to rumor and speculation, Bush has stated that he will not reinstate the draft and we can trust him on that. Bush has succeeded in the past four years and will succeed in the next. Whether or not you like him, I urge you to support the president in the difﬁcult decisions he must make over the next four years. Do it for the good of the country.

Adam Bergeon is a politically conservative junior and a guest columnist for this issue of the Central Stampede.

Alex Clothier ..........................

Bush Administration: Reloaded Four more years means more tears Forlorn and bleak, my body collapsed on the couch, drowning not only in the leather exterior, but in the misery of the post-2004 election results. Sen. John Kerry and John Edwards gracefully bowed, silently cursing the state of Ohio. My humble dream for a better America was abruptly engulfed by nightmarish chants of “four more years.” President Bush graced the airwaves proclaiming he had “political capital” and he intended to spend it. And with the Moral Revolution sweeping the nation, one can only guess at what he is going to spend his money on. Now that he has an iron grip on all three branches of the government, kiss the checks and balances good-bye, and say hello to a second term of raping Mother Nature, burning the Constitution, and imposing “morality” the globe over. The next four years shall be dismal, indeed. On the Cabinet level, things were looking optimistic when John Ashcroft resigned but Alberto Gonzales, the future Attorney General, turns out to be as shady a character as the man he replaces.

Not only did his law firm represent Enron, but he is in favor of executing mentally handicapped individuals on death row, which the Supreme Court has ruled “cruel and unusual.” The Supreme Court will be welcoming some youthful and more conservative faces fairly soon. Potentially, four members of the highest court will resign, leaving President Bush to appoint some judges who are more his style. His “style” is associated with anti-choice, and not just on abortion rights, but on rights granted to us by the Constitution and the Bill of Rights (minus the right to bear arms, seeing as the National Rifle Association is a long-time supporter of the Republican Party and endorsed the president in the 2004 election). Instilling values and “nation building” have been a favorite of President Bush, and we’ll hopefully see some more of that, what with North Korea possessing nuclear weapons, not to mention Pakistan who tested their nuclear power in 1998. Sure, we have over 1,200 dead in Iraq and fighting continues in Afghanistan, but I wouldn’t expect a resolution in the next

four years. Europe is still not a fan of the war in Iraq, and the Arab states aren’t that pleased with us either. With all the deaths in Iraq, additional forces are required to maintain even the most unstable of order. More forces mean more troops, and that means fresh recruits. Though many will deny it, I feel a draft coming, and Canada is looking pretty warm. To be blunt, the war on terrorism and the war in Iraq are equally ill-planned and are sheer madness. We started on a war of terror after 9/11, and with countries all over the world backing us, we sought just revenge upon Osama and his lackeys. Bush had “political capital” then and he spent it all at once and at the wrong place. Osama is still out there, and new research says that the invasion of Iraq has only increased “membership” in terrorist organizations. Osama was not found in Iraq, and I stand that our president and his administration were well aware of that. Our army of liberation has morphed into a dreaded army of occupation. And just

as many Iraqi citizens wanted to be liberated from the rule of Saddam Hussein, they now want to be liberated from the Bush regime. But on the 20th of January in 2005, when President Bush places his hand on the Bible and recites the famous oath of office, don’t try to be too sad. Granted, it’s hard to be optimistic when the glass is barely half full, but optimism is needed. We were once the envy of the world, as we gave shelter and food to the huddled masses and shined as a beacon of democracy and hope. Now we are seen as a country filled with empty promises, and a crusader bearing a cowboy hat of destruction. Hopefully, we can regain that image. It’ll take some time, and most likely more than another eight years to fix the eight years under a reckless Bush Administration. The only way for change to become a reality is if more people get out and use their rights. We still have freedom of speech, so go out and use it — before it is taken away. Alex Clothier is View Editor for the Central Stampede.

Students

Speak Out

When looking toward the future of our country, are you optimistic or pessimistic?

the community and the world. The staff will achieve a balance between informing and entertaining our readers regarding Portage Central’s pastimes, both in and out of school. By sampling a diversity of sources, opinions and topics, it is our hope to appeal to all people within the community. Editorials Staff editorials in the Central Stampede are unsigned and represent consensus of the staff. The opinion of the staff is represented in the “Our View” column. The opinions of the editors, staff writers and guest writers will have bylines and will carry their own view. Letters As an open forum, the Stampede encourages the representation of all voices of the community. However, the staff reserves the right to edit letters based on length and content.

“Pessimistic, with the war going on it’s only going to get worse. More soldiers are going to keep dying, nothing is going to be accomplished with violence.” Lisa Ellis Freshman

“I feel pessimistic because of George W. Bush, and more soldiers are going to Iraq.” Dan Ely Sophomore

“Things look good; I have faith in our leader. He has done it before so he has experience.” Iain Walker Junior

“I just hope that our country can reunite. With how close the elections were, it divided our country in half.” Kristin Elrod Senior

View

Stampede

page five

December 10, 2004

opinions and editorials

Samah Choudhury

Lindsay Miars ...........................

...................................

War on Terror takes U-turn

Electoral College hits a ﬂat note and should be voted out

Misdirected focus dooms our ‘crusade’

He at least could have said we’d be embarking on some great crusade against an evil that could never be fully annihilated; and that in essence, would never come to an end. Maybe we wouldn’t have been as illprepared or as rash to run into it, without exit strategies and a clear plan to win the peace in a region already in ﬂames. In reality, it seems George W. Bush’s supposed “War on Terror” has in fact, incited the very thing we are trying to defeat. Democratic nominee John Kerry was jeered, mocked and attacked for saying he hoped to bring America back to a place where “terrorists are not the focus of our lives, but they’re a nuisance.” Now, on face, this bold remark is seemingly easy to strike at. How can he say terrorism shouldn’t be the focus of our lives? Does he think we can’t win? (Gasp!) Does this guy want the terrorists to win? But logically, and in all true honesty, isn’t what Mr. Kerry depicted what we all really want? To go back to a time when we weren’t checking the terror level on the nightly news? When we didn’t take that now almost instinctive second glance at a man sporting a beard and thick accent and a woman donning a hijab? When our TV

screens weren’t plastered with the images of our dead children, our dead brothers and sisters? Ah yes, those certainly were “the days.” September the 11th. Three years have passed, and yet those words perpetuate every single day through our radios, our TV’s and our own lips. And maybe we don’t realize it yet, but that day was a pivotal point in American history. When people look back on this decade, they’ll view that one summery-autumn day as the day that effectively changed the world of the 21st century. The day nations all over the earth stood alongside America, condemning the brutal violence. The day that sparked a virtually endless war on an enemy unlike anything ever fought before. But now it’s December 2004—and this is the way many people are seeing the weeks that followed that fateful day in September: Oct. 7, 2001. Afghanistan. Justiﬁed. The man who attacked NYC had planted training camps galore in that war-torn mountainside land. Mr. Bush pledged to us his men would “smoke Bin Laden out”… delineated so articulately. Yet, it’s three years later… and we’ve got nothing. Well, no, let me take that back. We do have something. And it’s a mess. A

mess on two fronts—one of which isn’t even warranted. March 30, 2003. The day bombs began falling on Baghdad. Also known as the day that America, for all intents and purposes, lost its prestige in the eyes of the world. The “grave and gathering threat” Bush had worked so hard to emphasize was, in reality, not exactly what he thought. The year that followed quickly plummeted down slippery slope of confusion, questions, and somewhat cloudy answers. Where were the weapons of mass destruction? What? No ties to Al Qaeda? No, no, don’t worry. Our leaders wouldn’t dupe us. First week of October, 2004. The Senate and 9/11 Commission release reports that, contrary to American intelligence, Iraq had no weapons. No capability for weapons. Imagine that. Clearly our focus was directed off course. The facts are there. But the thing is, we’re still going to pay the consequences for months, even years to come. The worst part is that it won’t be just with American lives and the lives of innocent civilians in whichever country we happen to be bombing, but with every aspect of our global lives as well. I don’t exaggerate when I

say that we are seen around the world as that one nasty “high and mighty” kid from elementary school who steals people’s lunch money and doesn’t care if he’s invited anywhere. But now is not the time to sit around and complain. Our misunderstood kid still has a chance to redeem himself. He can still clean up his mess. In other words, we can change our perception. We can bring this war back to where it belongs: to Al Qaeda. If we go back to Afghanistan, where they still are and in fact, are regrouping, if our administration agrees to clean up the mess thoroughly and to learn how to win the peace, maybe there’s still hope. Maybe we can bring our troops home with minimal damage to the people whose lives we’ve inconceivably changed forever. As long as there is green grass on this earth, there will be people intent on inﬂicting fear upon other people. But it can be reduced. And the key is redirecting our focus. With a new outlook—an outlook with respect for all human life—we really can make terrorism just another nuisance in our lives again. Samah Choudhury is a Journalism I student and will join the Stampede staff in January.

Kay Tarleton ..........................

Don’t hate me ’cause I’m Number One A peaceful neighborhood nestled behind the Portage Creek, or at least it was quiet before the bulldozers came. A giant Wal-Mart Supercenter rises from behind the trees, the water creating a barrier between tranquility and low-priced products. But this isn’t the ﬁrst city to be drafted into the WalMart way of life; countless others have suffered the same fate. Created in 1962 by Sam Walton, Wal-Mart may provide affordable prices for the bargainhunters, but there’s an obvious twist to this fairytale. Cashiers earn a starting hourly wage of $6.25, according to a personnel manager of a typical Wal-Mart Supercenter, which is clearly not enough to raise a family on. According to the U.S. Dept. of Agriculture’s “low-

cost food plan” for an adult, a 4-year-old and a 12-year-old, after tax, require about $248 per month for food alone. The WalMart employee discount doesn’t even apply to food. Most of their employees are part-time workers so the store doesn’t have to pay health beneﬁts. Not only does this store cheat its workers, it also can destroy a community it inﬁltrates. Small businesses can’t beat the Supercenters’ prices, and despite the loyalty of the town, Americans like it cheap. Eventually, despite their protests, they’ll give in and shop at the retail giant. Wal-Mart wishes to go world-wide with its stores, demonstrating its brutality and lack of concern for the countries and cities that will be so negatively affected by this. The people of Ireland have protested this wanted occupancy for years. If a Wal-Mart was to be built in quaint, old-world Ireland, the small businesses that run the

tiny country would be ruined. Another way of life shattered. What angers me the most about Wal-Mart is its safety policies. Several people have been raped and assaulted in Wal-Mart parking lots across the United States. In a “60 Minutes” episode addressing the problems of one particular store, an innocent shopper was shot in a Wal-Mart after another shopper picked up a gun out of the sporting goods section and loaded it with the ammunition that sat right next to it on the shelf. Wal-Mart was sued 4,851 times last year, according to USA Today. That’s nearly once every two hours every day of the year. Wal-Mart is a defendant in court about six times every business day. So why do people shop there? Good question. We seem to overlook the obvious signs when we see the prices of the products we’re going to buy. We forget all about the horror stories we heard,

pushing them into the back of our mind, telling ourselves they’re just that – stories. But the next time you decide to go into this bargain-hunter’s supposed wonderland, think about what you’re supporting. Do you want your hardearned cash going to a store that scams its workers? Whose employees don’t bother to watch the security cameras in their parking lots any more than they have to? That is going to build a store that can be seen from the Aztec ruins in Mexico? Let’s hope not. So spend that extra 20 cents and shop at Meijer, D&W or Harding’s, and know that your money is being earned by locally run businesses that care more about what happens in this community than Sam Walton does.

Kay Tarleton is a Journalism I student and will join the Stampede staff in January.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Media bias is truly in the eye of the beholder

Editor, That darn media. They’re off to their old bias again. So many times we hear Democrats call the media “right wing,” or the Republicans shoot back that it’s “liberal trash.” To be perfectly honest, the entire conﬂict makes me laugh. For the purposes of philosophical analogy, let us now imagine taking our left hand, and putting it in warm, almost hot water. Now, without moving our left hand, we put our right hand into cool, almost cold water. We leave them in this condition for around 5 minutes, before simultaneously taking both hands out of their containers, and put them both in room temperature water. For a few seconds, the right hand will feel excruciatingly hot, and the left will feel numbingly cold. Far from unlocking an important discovery about the human nervous system, we have proved one important fact: human perception of any given situation is relative to the perception of the situation to which he/ she is accustomed. This applies to hands in water bowls, as well as the political climate

of the news that we read, hear or watch. I am truly baffled that we humans have been able to build supercomputers, create and understand laws about the universe through complicated astrophysics, build skyscrapers, and other tremendous tasks. Yet we cannot understand the simple fact that a person’s feeling on politics is (like many other things in Einstein’s universe) relative. After Nov. 2, I find this difficult and painful to say, but I am a Democrat. I am a hardcore, liberal, left- wing Democrat. I devote a good portion of my life to understanding every aspect of world politics. Part of this long, difficult quest for accurate knowledge comes from news agencies around the world. When I look at a news article from one of the 21 news agencies that I monitor, chances are I will conclude that it is more conservative than I am. I use the term “more” because it describes the condition of the article relative to my political stance. Likewise, when a conservative friend of mine looks at a news article, she sees it as more liberal than she is.

One key difference exists between my conservative friend and I and the rest of the nation: when we read these articles that are more liberal or more conservative, we accept them as “more” than our view, rather than dismissing them as biased and useless. She and I are above partisan accusations toward the media, and are therefore better at assessing politics for what it truly is. The vast majority of American media is biased, but not necessarily to the left or right. In the last 50 years, the crime rate in this country has dropped drastically, yet the coverage of violence in the media has increased by over 600 percent. News agencies are able to get away with biases for violence, race, color and other factors, because the American public is far too busy making partisan accusations. Americans need to put aside their partisan differences, and start holding the media accountable for its true biases, which lie not to the left or right, but in the systematic marketing of fear, and the subsequent proﬁt. Alex Hopkins Junior

Think back to the finalé of “American Idol,” the second season. Clay Aiken and Ruben Studdard have sung their happy little songs, Simon has doled out his share of brutal critiques and Ryan Seacrest has thoroughly annoyed everyone in the nation. Finally, the votes are in. Seacrest glances at his glossy card and, after a painfully drawn-out pause, annouces the results: Rueben has received 53 percent of the votes. The crowd errupts into cheers. Ruben bursts out crying tears of joy. But wait...that was just the popular vote. By a slim margin of 274 to 269 electoral votes, Clay is your next American Idol! As horrifying as that scenario is to imagine, it never happened. The system devised to select the “idol” of our nation, unlike the one devised to elect our president, actually makes sense. Maybe it was a good idea in 1787, but today the Electoral College does nothing but hinder the progress of our country. First of all, the Electoral College was established during a time when communication was difficult and quick transportation was hard to come by. Our Founding Fathers were concerned that citizens would not be able to make informed decisions, when many hadn’t even heard of the possible candidates, let alone seen them or heard what they had to say. Instead, each state would receive a certain number of electors (based on population) to “represent” the people of their state. Today, 95 percent of households own at least one television and have direct access to the information needed to make such an important decision. While many still feel that the electoral method of selecting a leader protects citizens from deception, it is clear to most that the Electoral College is now unnecessary and obsolete. Aside from being so outdated, the Electoral College is responsible for more problems than benefits. Firstly, the “winner takes all” system causes candidates to focus on states with more electoral votes, such as

Would you like some fries with that textbook?

Editor, It has been over a decade since I first entered the teaching profession. I have spent years in undergraduate and graduate study to prepare me for the job. I have enjoyed tremendous success as a debate, student congress and forensics coach and, while I enjoyed all of these endeavors, monetary compensation was never a huge factor in my drive for success. I always felt that being trusted by others to mold students toward success, as well as being shown a modicum of respect for the programs I created, was enough to keep me going. In recent years, I have become more active and outspoken on the issues that specifically affect teachers. I have grown increasingly tired of the political games that arise in education where reform seems to come and go faster than a breeze off Lake Michigan. I grow impatient with the mantra from administration to continue to be “flexible” when I have already been forced to be that and more for the last several years. I scoff at the idea that politicians know what is best for our

Florida and Pennsylvania, and ignore the smaller states. Take, for instance, our most recent election. Did anyone pay attention to Delaware, with its measly three electoral votes? No. All eyes were on Ohio, and a winner was announced even before all of the votes were counted. The electoral system also tends to exclude minority parties and independent groups, promoting the twoparty system exclusively. It’s hard to believe, but Bush and Kerry weren’t the only ones running in the last election, and if it weren’t for the Electoral College, we might have seen a little more of the rest. It’s not as if this flawed system is lurking unnoticed in the folds of our democratic system; the Electoral College has stirred up controversy and sparked numerous conflicts in the past. For example, take the infamous Florida case in the 2000 election. As the votes were recounted, it became clear that whoever won Florida’s electoral votes would win the election, and so it was. Although Democrat Al Gore won more votes than Republican George Bush in the national popular vote, Bush found his way into the White House. Okay, wait a second. We were taught in kindergarden that when more people wanted to use the blue crayon than the red crayon, it was only “fair” to use the blue crayon. So why is it okay in this situation for a nation of perfectly rational individuals to ignore the blatent disregard of “majority rules”? As long as our country is governed by the Electoral College, we are not a true democracy. We, as citizens, are not in command of the rights that were promised to us 217 years ago; instead, we have handed these rights to a group of representatives influenced by their own political agendas. It’s time to take a stand against a system that, every four years, reminds us that we are still one step away from a true democracy. Now sing Ruben, sing. Lindsay Miars is a Journalism I student and will join the Stampede staff in January.

children and that people on the outside or in the business world could really understand how our education system works and how to improve it. But, the philosophy that really makes me shudder is the one that says students are now our “customers,” thereby implying that schools are nothing more than education cafeterias where we must offer the latest, greatest products on the tray or our students will turn up their noses and leave. When did we decide that a good education was a commercial product for sale and who decided that teachers are only hired sales staff looking to peddle the latest wares? When did we get away from the idea that educating a child was a team effort on the part of the parents, the teachers, the administrators, the coaches and the community as a whole? When did we sell out to the business model of rising proﬁt margins regardless of the quality of the product? If we are not careful, the next thing we will hear from teachers in front of their classes will be the statement, “Do you want me to super-size that?” Randy Borden Director of Debate and Forensics

Focus

Stampede

features and lifestyles

page seven December 10, 2004

Putting the pieces back together Election 2004 wrap-up: Students remain optimistic despite divided nation

By Meredith Gage VIBE EDITOR

Are you optimistic or pessimistic about the future? Pessimistic 31%

Are you pleased with the results of the election? Don’t Care 11% No 41% Yes 48%

“I had so many involved students this year. I saw kids canvassing, working phones and volunteering for both major parties.”

Do you plan on voting n the 2008 presidential election?

Art by Nolan Flynn/STAMPEDE Graphic by Mark Mason/STAMPEDE

Kent Baker

History

Apathetic 14%

Optimistic 66%

Yes 96%

No 4%

What issues matter most? Graphic by Mark Mason/STAMPEDE

What are your hopes for the next four years?

None 4%

Other 26%

“I hope gas prices go down and the war is resolved.” Brian Haske Senior

Environment 34%

“I want minimum wage to get raised and gas prices to go down as well.” Megan Wilson Junior

Gay rights 48%

“I hope all of our troops come home safely and our economy recovers.” Justin Ackerson Senior

Abortion 38%

“I hope the war stops soon and we stop causing problems for other countries along with ourselves.” Chelsea VanBuskirk Junior

Terror 56%

“I hope the troops in Iraq are called back home and the war ﬁnally comes to an end.” Chad Heath Senior

War 65%

“I just hope the U.S. can maintain respect from other nations.” Sandra Kurtz Senior

Jobs 67%

“I’m hoping the economy recovers.” Mike Ferns Senior

College 62%

Finally, it’s over. No more B-list celebrities calling your house in taped messages, no more debates interrupting you favorite TV show, and no more “Vote or Die” t-shirts. For all of P. Diddy’s threats and all of Bruce Springsteen’s rockin’, votes cast by 18-to-24-year-olds made up only 9 percent of the total vote—the same percentage as the 2000 presidential election. Senior Sarah Kurry, who voted this year said, “There was such a big pressure to vote if you were 18. It was on MTV all the time.” “I think that the media may have tried to get many people to vote and if they didn’t they would have felt really guilty,” sophomore Evan Bowles said. The Nov. 2 re-election of President Bush marks an exciting new chapter in our lives: yes, PC students, for the next four years you will be able to live a life free of Swift Boat veterans seeking the truth and debates over flip-flops vs. boots. “I got sort of electioned-out,” Ken Baker, a PC social studies and history teacher said. “I was disappointed that both sides were so negative.” The intense partisan values that became the center of the presidential campaign turned into o v e r a l l n e g a t i v i t y. Early in the year, a popular slogan for liberals became “anybody but Bush,” and conservatives fired back with hardhitting attacks on Kerry’s V i e t n a m record and boycotting Heinz ketchup. However, if hatred of a particular candidate drove more people to the polls, Bowles doesn’t necessarily think it’s a bad thing. “I think a lot of people went out to vote because they hated Bush…but the more people that vote is better because their opinion is voiced,” said Bowles, who is a Bush supporter. Kurry said she decided to vote this year because the race was very close. “I wanted to take a stand for myself,” Kurry said. “When I went in to vote, they treated me like I was 5,” Kurry said, in reference to her young voting age. “Everybody kept asking me, ‘Do you understand?’ you know, because of how the election was so close.” Out of roughly 1,400 students at PC, around 40 were registered to vote this year. Even students who were underage and therefore could not exercise the right to have a formal say in the government were not immune to the hype and hysteria that

surrounded the election, however. “I had so many involved students this year,” said Baker, who teaches all grades. “I saw kids canvassing, working phones and volunteering for both of the major parties. I even had one student who was very serious about supporting Nader. It was all very encouraging.” Indeed, the 2004 election was touted as one of the most important presidential elections in history. While some brushed this off as mere get-out-the-vote propaganda, Baker believes there is truth to the hype. “While each election is important, this one seemed important in particular because of the war in Iraq and Supreme Court nominations,” Baker said. With a possible four out of the nine Supreme Court justices seeking possible retirement within the next four years, the president has the power to replace them with new judges, which will influence the policy of the United States for many years to come. Voting provided a government lesson for Kurry. “I never was really aware of how the state voting system worked,” Kurry said, referring to the Electoral College and how it is presented visually with Democratic states colored blue and Republican states colored red. “I’ll a l w a y s remember t h a t , remember the colored m a p s . ” Baker will have his memories as well. “I’ll always r e m e m b e r, ‘It’s hard work’ and ‘I have a plan’ as the sound bites of the election,” Baker said, referring to the mantras of Bush and Kerry that were repeated ad infinitum on 24-hour news networks and Saturday Night Live spoofs alike. Kurry intends on voting for president again in 2008, and many of her peers will likely join her at the polls. In a nonscientific survey of government students at PC, 96 percent intend on voting in the next presidential election in 2008. Students also ranked the issues most important to them in the next four years. “Jobs” was cited as the number one concern, followed by “War,” “College,” “Terrorism,” “Abortion,” and “Gay Rights.” “I think a very important issue for the next four years will be the people fighting overseas,” Kurry said. Fifty-five percent of students in the same survey said they were “optimistic” about the future of the country, but Baker still has some concerns. “I hope that the promise about ‘healing the country’ actually occurs,” Baker said.

* Source: Survey of six PC government classes

Stampede

page eight

December 10, 2004

Focus features and lifestyles

Stop the

insanity!

A r t

Fundraisers are often a necessary evil, but there’s no doubt they are lucrative

Art Club

Tables

Montage

Mugs

Environmental Club Smencils Band

Meijer Comm. Rewards/Paper recycling

Water Polo Tennis

Can drive/Wenke bucks Day-of-play

Teens for Life

Candles Source: PCHS advisers and coaches

PORTAGE PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICT DRIVER EDUCATION

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Segment 1

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T-shirt sales

Prom Committee

M TA

Pop sales

AMOUNT RAISED

n/S

Forensics/Debate

=$2,000

Fundraising is making the difference for a number of Portage Central clubs... PRIMARY METHOD CLUB OF FUNDRAISING

MONEY HUNGRY

Other clubs, including the junior class prom committee, stick to classics such as t-shirt sales and candy. Junior class and prom committee advisers Bonnie Moss and Aja Creduer notice one general trend in fundraising: candy sales. The popularity of this method among many organizations has led to a “competitive candy market,” as clubs move away from selling traditional holiday items. The necessity of fundraising stems primarily from the tight state-wide economy. This means funding for many programs was slashed, notably the PC Forensics team which had its budget reduced from approximately $10,000 to $7,000 this year. Randy Borden, forensics and debate coach, adds that new policies concerning school rented transportation and copy limits have now consumed nearly 50 percent of the forensics/debate budget. The importance of fundraisers is never forgotten within clubs because funding is needed for even an organization’s most basic functions. Helen Wynkoop, Montage adviser, points out one such case as just maintaining Montage’s high quality standards requires major fundraising. Since clubs cannot charge an admission fee, they are forced to turn to student and parent aid to compensate for budget gaps. The importance of student fundraisers was emphasized by Nicole Zimmerman, Montage business manager. “Essentially, there would be no Montage without the business staff,” she said. Both Borden and art teacher Dee Fitzsimmons agree that fundraising can often have a negative impact on a

oo nR

On the coldest, wettest Saturday afternoon of the month, junior Amanda Montgomery stands on a street corner listening to the bustle of 12th Street and honking cars. She is fully clad in thermal underwear and layer upon layer of ﬂeece, topped off with a sign reading: “Parade of Homes 2004.” Montgomery, like many of PC’s active thespians, hopes to pack her bags for the drama department’s Edinburgh, Scotland trip this August. This

even fundraising, for your favorite club or organization. As school budgets are slashed and cutbacks are made throughout the district, the sight of students lugging boxes of candy through crowded halls is now a sight all too common. These fundraisers can vary from work-a-thons and Krispy Kremes, to can collecting and yes, even clutching signs in the rain. Many clubs, like PC’s literary arts magazine Montage, have attempted an assortment of fundraisers including poinsettia, Krispy Kreme, cookie dough and mug sales in an attempt to collect any proﬁt, large or small.

tum Au by

FOCUS EDITOR

trip of a lifetime, however, comes with a hefty price tag of nearly $4,500, which each participant is required to raise. After assistance from close family and relatives Montgomery still needed to raise $2,000. Thus, she assumed her perch on 12th Street for a mere $8 an hour. “It was weird to have people honking and encouraging me, but it was nice to know I was supported,” Montgomery said, adding “…But, it wasn’t worth the money.” Spending a Saturday in the rain could only be cruel and unusual punishment, unless you’re a high school student loyal enough to do anything,

oto Ph

By Dana Cronyn

club’s function. Fundraisers often become “headaches” as countless hours are spent planning fundraisers, clearing actions with the administration and pouring over spreadsheets. Many advisers noted fundraisers often become booking nightmares as many sales barely break even and depend heavily on a student’s honor code. All of this, Borden states, takes valuable time away from competing. “It takes time away from your planning period at school,” Credeur added. “[Even without fundraising] the everyday life of a teacher is so stressful.” Fitzsimmons also shares a similar opinion. “I don’t need to spend my time playing accountant; I need to spend my time playing teacher,” she said. Another disadvantage is the burden placed on students, one which may deter students from joining an organization. Borden explains students don’t often understand why there is a need to fundraise and that every bit of assistance is crucial. He also adds merchandise is usually purchased by the same demographic: parents. Fundraising, however, can positively inﬂuence a club as well. Drama department director Kathy Mulay states that while working toward a common goal, students often become a

tight ensemble. Montage Editor-in-Chief Alyssa Beer echoes this sentiment. “Many students are enthusiastic and in the end we pull together as a staff,” she said. Currently, Montgomery and many members of the theater department continue fundraising as they need to raise $4,500 each for their summer trip to Edinburgh. While three years ago, on the same trip, Mulay assisted the fundraising effort she states this year it would be “too much work.” Mulay also adds a parent-run committee, similar to the one used previously is also out of the question as the job was too large for parents with careers and should be left to “professional fundraisers.” Without complaint, the drama program has taken numerous measures to raise the money including asking for grants, can collecting, shoveling snow, caroling, selling candy and even asking for donations in lieu of Christmas presents. “Parents were very understanding and supportive of my dilemma,” Mulay said. So as long as there are ambitious clubs and tight budgets, fundraisers will certainly maintain their status as a necessary evil.

Focus

Stampede

page nine

December 10, 2004

features and lifestyles

A born leader

Comeback Kid After near-tragedy, junior Dave Tingley makes an amazing recovery

‘Trend-setter’ Uhlmann led by example

By Alison Beranek EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Don’t let the somewhat gruff exterior of government teacher Marc Uhlmann fool you. This former three-sport standout is admired by students for his laid-back approach and sense of humor. Uhlmann graduated from Bay City John Glenn H.S. (near the thumb) in 1990, where he played football, baseball and basketball. “Football was definitely my favorite,” Uhlmann said. “I played quarterback and defensive end. Our team was very successful at it. We went 9-0 my senior year and won conference.” Uhlmann’s high school memorabilia includes nearly 100 newspaper and yearbook articles and pictures that reflect his athletic ability. But what set him apart from other senior athletes was that he had been on varsity in all three sports since he was a sophomore, and additionally, coaches were so impressed by Uhlmann’s maturity that they named a leadership award after him. Besides being a huge sports fan, he liked to golf and fish, and living on Saginaw Bay, 50 yards from Lake Erie was ideal for any avid fisher. However, being a dedicated sportsman did not deter Uhlmann from playing the occasional prank. “We T.P.ed people we liked,” Uhlmann said. “To get T.P.ed by us was a badge of honor.” His style and choice of entertainment reflected the ‘80’s A much-younger Marc Uhlmann rises above a startled opponent to bank another shot for trends. Although Uhlmann his John Glenn H.S. (Bay City) varsity basketball team. didn’t wear it himself, according minimally folded-over pant leg television. “I had good relationships with to him, back then you could get for a look-alike effect. Coincidentally, Uhlmann’s my teachers,” said Uhlmann, away with wearing pink. Also “I never wanted to go all favorite aspect of being a who has been a teacher for eight “peg-legging” your jeans was the way to teacher is the entertainment, years, teaching government hugely popular. be trendy,” when “you do something that and history. “I liked the type of Uhlmann U h l m a n n normally is cool, but it grabs people that they were.” “We T.P.ed demonstrated with a their attention.” Consequently, watching eight people we liked; said this trend by laugh. An interesting and fondly years of high school students throwing his to get T.P.ed by Similar remembered prop in a typical and enjoying memories of his big, brawny leg to his peers, Uhlmann classroom includes own teen-age years, Uhmann’s us was a badge he enjoyed up onto his lessthe infamous “Gavel of Justice,” perspective benefits his teaching than-organized of honor.” the Rolling which he uses to maintain order style and positive relationships desk, and Stones and in the beginning of class. with students. Marc Uhlmann unsuccessfully watched “People say that high school Uhlmann decided to become History Teacher pinching the “ D a l l a s . ” a teacher in his first year of is the best time of your life,” bottom of his U h l m a n n college, which was influenced Uhlmann said. “It is one of the pant leg and e v e n by the fact that it tied in with times you won’t have all the folding it up, s h e e p i s h l y coaching and also from other responsibilities. Enjoy it and so it “hugged your leg.” Even confessed to “watching a little teachers that were good role take advantage of it. I look back though this was popular at the bit of the Dallas Reunion” models during his high school at high school and don’t regret time, Uhlmann admitted to a that recently aired on network career. anything.”

Teenagers are notorious for believing they are invincible. Since last January, junior Dave Tingley has overcome tremendous obstacles by battling back from a life-threatening car accident. On Jan. 6, Tingley and his parents were driving home from their grandmother’s funeral in Wisconsin. Due to the bad weather, a semi-truck lost control on I-94 and came across the median, smashing Tingley into their van. Tingley was rushed to the hospital, where he spent the entire month of January in a coma. Tingley’s long road to rehabilitation began at a hospital in Vickburg, where the extent of Tingley’s brain injury quickly became apparent. He couldn’t figure out simple math problems, and since math was his strongest subject, this fact confirmed the difficulty of the road ahead. Tingley, a successful athlete, at one point decided to ignore his brain injury and escape the hospital to try to get in shape for his upcoming track season. “My legs didn’t work, I couldn’t run,” Tingley said. “I was confused and got scared, so I got back into my wheelchair and went back into the hospital.” Because of his progress, in mid-February Tingley was brought to the Farmington Hills Rehabilitation Center for Children. About a month later, he reluctantly enrolled in a “regular” high school in Farmington Hills where his injuries negatively impacted his education. A positive factor in Tingley’s recovery was the support of his parents. “They would come on the weekends and we would go to Cracker Barrel every weekend, where I would stuff myself,” Tingley said. “We would play games, play cards. I loved the weekend. Eventually I got to come home for the weekends, and from there I kept counting down the days, where I had less and less rehab sessions.” However, the foremost

influence in Tingley’s motivation for recovery was his strong faith. “God really pulled me through,” he said. “Because I had a lot of time on my hands, I read the Bible and memorized the verses. As much as I have lost, I have grown in a spiritual sense. I prioritize now and realize what really matters.” On June 10, Tingley was finally released from the Farmington Hills Rehab Center, which he described as the “best day” of his life. But since then, the path to a full recovery has been challenging. “It hasn’t been easy, I’m not the same person I used to be,” said Tingley, who insisted his peers and teachers at PC have been very accepting, which encouraged his ongoing recovery and upbeat attitude. “I am a lot more social,” Tingley said. “People are nice to me and it was great to hear ‘wow, your back’ and people excited to see me. Now I am involved in youth group and have lots of friends, which have been like an anchor for me.” Although Tingley suffered from a knee injury during the second half of the cross country season, he still enjoyed the social aspects of being a part of the team and “had a lot of fun.” “Dave definitely changed since last year, but the new Dave is a lot of fun, we had a great time during cross season,” cross country teammate and friend Lisa Keyte said. Despite personality changes, Tingley’s hard work ethic and determination remains a constant in academics and sports. “I never met a kid that likes to work so much and so hard as he does…I would take 100 Dave Tingleys over someone with the ability to win a state title,” cross country coach Dan Wytko said. In addition to cross country, Tingley looks forward to competing on the swim team this winter. “I’m going to swim this year, even if I am not the greatest,” Tingley said. “It is frustrating sometimes, but I can accept what’s happening and go from there.” Although 2004 has been the “hardest year” of his life, he can reflect upon the experience with a positive and promising outlook. “I am just grateful that I can do these things,” he said. “I can’t wait until next year. I look forward to the future.”

News About Your School District Stay informed... ● Page

5 every Monday in the Portage Gazette

● The

District web site: www.portageps.org

Focus

Stampede

page ten

December 10, 2004

features and lifestyles

Simple gifts for the thrifty shopper For those who are shallow in their wallets, but not in their hearts

By Alison Beranek EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

As you may have noticed, most stores jump-start Christmas sales immediately after Halloween. Pre-holiday sales infest almost every advertisement, billboard or commercial. But despite what marketers assume, teenagers don’t have large piles of cash lying around, especially during the holiday season. However, there is a solution. Homemade gifts are truly appreciated by all and allow you to stay within your budget. With time and careful planning, these creative ideas are guranteed to be well-received by your parents, friends and siblings. There are three categories in which these gifts are divided, according to crafting ability: exceptionally creative, somewhat creative and the “please help me” category.

Exceptionally creative $10 Ribbon board

This fancy bulletin board can be designed to accent any décor. Though it looks complicated, simply cover a used bulletin board with fabric and with a staple gun (for a safer alternative, use a hot glue gun) attach the fabric to the back. The ribbon is then placed where desired, and for a snazzy look, add buttons to the intersections of the ribbon.

$1 Frame Gather

some

knick-knacks

Photo by Laura Smith/STAMPEDE

from around the house – puzzle pieces, buttons and beads and hot glue to an inexpensive frame (can be found at Goodwill, attics or garage sales). Find your favorite picture and you have not only a unique gift, but a keepsake as well.

$10 Sewing basket

For the domestic type, sewing baskets can be found at local fabric stores. They can be ﬁlled with threads, needles, scissors, buttons, pincushions and fabric remnants, for a gift any seamstress would appreciate.

$2 Framed poem

Print an inspirational or favorite piece of poetry in an oldfashioned typeface and for an antiqued look, paint with tea to “age it” and frame. Better yet, use a calligraphy pen and print the poem yourself for a truly unique gift.

Somewhat creative $2 Chocolate spoon

Buy a box of chocolate spoons, melt chocolate chips and dip the spoon into the chocolate and place on wax paper (you can add sprinkles). When the chocolate dries, cover with colored cellophane and tie with festive ribbons. These can be put into mugs with coffee bags or hot chocolate with marshmallow to warm up a chilly night.

$20 Fleece throw blanket

With two pieces of ﬂeece fabric, cut four-inch slits all around, cutting out four inch square on the corners. After doing this on all four sides, tie together (double knots work best). Within an hour, this project will be sure to impress and receiver.

“Please help me!”

$5 Pillow

Using fabric remnants from old clothes or the fabric store, sew together to match a room’s décor. You can add buttons or patches in shapes to make it more personable.

$4 Cookies

Whip up a batch of cookies with commonly found items in your own kitchen. The advantage of this gift is that it can be shared by all (you too), just follow the directions and bon appetit!

$1 Bookmarks

These very cute, very inexpensive craft only requires a piece of 20-50 gauge wire. Bend into a heart or any letter shape. Make sure the wire has a place to hold the pages to make a true bookmark.

$5 Video tape

Record hours of your friend’s/ parent’s favorite television show.

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For a mom or dad that enjoys cooking or needs some pointers, this gift only requires a quick trip to the grocery store.

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Vibe

Stampede

page eleven December 10, 2004

entertainment and events

Young author has the write stuff Atwater-Rhodes signed ﬁrst contract at 14

By Kay Tarleton

SPECIAL TO THE STAMPEDE All serious writers dream of the day that they can walk into a book store and see their work upon the shelves. How likely is it that a 14-year-old can get a book published? Not very, but it happened to Amelia AtwaterRhodes. Author of six well-known vampire books for teenagers, Atwater-Rhodes visited the Kalamazoo Public Library on Oct. 23 on her tour for her latest book “Snakecharmer”. AtwaterRhodes’ first book published, “Into the Forests of the Night”, was accepted for publication when she was only 13. “The story of my publication is the equivalent to a publishing fairytale,” Atwater-Rhodes said. “I signed my first contract in eighth grade. I just kept thinking a 13-year-old can’t publish a book. I didn’t even believe it until I saw it on the self. Half of me believed I was still dreaming.” Atwater-Rhodes received the good news on April 16, 1998, her 14th birthday, the best birthday present she could ever receive. “I remember literally falling off a chair,” she said. Since that wonderful spring day, five more of AtwaterRhodes’ books have made it to the shelves. “Demon in my View,” “Shattered Mirror” and “Midnight Predator” all stick to the same vampire world that her readers have grown to love, whereas her newest two books, “Hawksong” and “Snakecharmer,” focus on shape shifters. A seventh book is expected in book stores sometime in the fall of 2005. The life of a writer is a crazy one, and Atwater-Rhodes’ is no exception. Graduating high school in three years to escape its hectic schedule, she is now attending college in her home state of Massachusetts. “I’m introduced as ‘the girl with the books,’” she said. Only 20 years old, AtwaterRhodes still has difficulty comparing herself to the “great writers of her time.” “Authors I like put me to shame,” she jokes. “Me, Tolkien; author, God. I hope someday to be in that league.” But Atwater-Rhodes sends a ray of hope to young writers everywhere, proving that young publication, however unlikely, is a possibility. “To have people say, ‘your books inspired me to write,’ is a great honor,” she said.

“Edit until you think your So what’s her secret to a quick success? Talent and luck. She eyes are going to fall out. The happened to meet an English first draft is never perfect,” teacher who was also a literary Atwater-Rhodes said. “You’ll agent during her tour through never finish if you start editing while your her high school. still writing After reading her it. You’ll work, he offered “ Authors I like n e v e r her a contract. finish.” Before this, put me to shame. So with Atwater-Rhodes Me, Tolkein; ausix books sent out several under her manuscripts to thor, God. I hope arm and other agents. to someday be in a tiger Without a agent, Beanie she believes that league.” Baby on it nearly Amelia Atwaterher head – impossible to Rhodes that’s how get published. she wrote Her advice Author the last for inspiring 50-some authors? Write and finish a novel before you try pages of “Into the Forests of the to get an agent. Do the research, Night” – Atwater-Rhodes hopes check your library for books to pursue a career in education on agents and publication and and continue writing in her know what you’re getting into. spare time. “It’s a nice career,” she Be willing to share your books; if you aren’t comfortable having said, “If publishing didn’t pay, the people you love most read it, authors wouldn’t have time to how will you deal with millions write. The most expensive part is printer ink and postage.” of strangers judging it?

Darwin Awards: Survival of the funniest

If MTV programming and the bottled water craze haven’t yet convinced you of the idiocy of many members of the human race, here’s something that should: the Darwin Awards. The Stampede brings you the best... By Meredith Gage VIBE EDITOR

Young author Amelia Atwater-Rhodes in a press photo.

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The Darwin Awards, facetiously named after famous evolutionist Charles Darwin, “salute the improvement of the human genome by honoring those who accidentally kill themselves in really stupid ways.” The Awards, which can be found on www.darwinawards. com, are a mineﬁeld of black humor certain to tickle the funny bone of those who aren’t afraid to laugh at death. The 2003 Darwin Award, for example, was given (posthumously, of course) to a Brazilian man who was cleaning out ﬂammable vapors from the inside of a dark gas tanker truck when he decided to light a match to see better, effectively blowing himself up. The 2004 winner has not yet been announced, so visitors of the website can still cast their votes for the best story. There’s plenty of macabre tales to choose from. The Stampede staff

respectfully applauds the gun was unloaded. While all of the above examples following individuals who men’s stupidity, removed themselves from the illustrate the website insists it has no gene pool this year: -A drunken man was placed gender bias. Rather, the Awards monitors in restraints believe that in the ER so many of following a The Stampede the Awards stab to the staff respectfully go to men abdomen. because “… He takes applauds those males are, a cigarette who removed in a sense, l i g h t e r out of his themselves from evolution’s playthings. pocket and the gene pool in Far fewer tries to burn males through the really dumb ways females than are restraints, this year. needed to setting his propagate bedding on our species. ﬁre. M a l e s -A man decided that the best way to can therefore be used as an stop his car getting repossessed experimental breeding ground, was to tie his foot to the as we are more dispensable. In bumper. Unfortunately, the most species females tend to be car was driven to the repo lot close to the average in physical anyway without any notice and mental dimensions, whereas of the owner, who died being males are seen to display extremes more frequently.” dragged behind his car. Stay safe and stay smart for -A man shoots himself in the head while performing a tutorial the rest of 2004. Hopefully, this on gun safety. He thought the is one award you never win.

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Stampede

page twelve

December 10, 2004

entertainment and events

Into the

e v o o r G

ear h u o y ...Did about...? ne the o

Entertainment Reviews from the Stampede Staff

Movie: “Finding Neverland”

Art by Nolan Flynn/STAMPEDE

Standing up and being seen Standup comedy making another comeback By Andrew Thornton STAFF WRITER

For those of us born in the 1980s, standup comedy hitting television is a fairly new phenomena. Now, every Friday night and many other times throughout the week, you can ﬂip on Comedy Central and see a comic doing a 30 minute set. Shows like NBC’s “Last Comic Standing” give us a look inside these people and let us even vote for our favorites. But for the older crowd, this isn’t so new. Standup comic Cory Kahaney, who placed fourth on NBC’s ﬁrst “Last Comic Standing” doesn’t think it will last any longer this time than it has in the past. “This is not new, there was a comedy boom in the ‘80s and every channel on television had stand up,” Kahaney said. “It actually prompted people to open more clubs. At one point there were three or four comedy clubs in every city in America. Eventually, people saw too many bad shows and they stopped coming.” Kahaney said while

she appreciates the shows comedians, Kahaney said. “It’s only a brief because they offer exposure she to up and coming comics, interruption,” “They never she also fears them. added. “The risk to comedy as a result last, only comics last.” Both comics also offered of these TV shows is that people will come back to the clubs to up some advice for young see someone who they saw on kids who might want to television and they won’t be as go into standup comedy. Kahaney was quick to funny when they have to do 45 minutes in the headline spot,” turn young kids away she said. “So even the most loyal from the field: “If there’s fan may get turned off, and anything else you could that’s it, it will be another five be happy doing instead, do years before they see another that. It’s not something you comedy show. But for me I can’t chose to do, you do it because you have complain. to, and it’s Being on “People who a hard network TV r o a d . ” was such watch stand-up D a v e a great comedy on Mordal was opportunity.” more blunt, Other television and a s k i n g c o m e d i a n s , never go to an who however, actual live club, those m i g h t disagree. pursue Dave Mordal never would who was the have anyway, so c o m e d y to: “Write runner-up your own on NBC’s it doesn’t hurt “Last Comic the profession.” material.” Standup Standing 3” Dave Mordal comedy doesn’t see clearly isn’t these shows Standup Comic, on going away, as too big the popularity of h av in g of a risk. begun its “People comedy television successful who watch shows run back stand-up in the ‘50s. comedy on television and never go to an Will this round of standup actual live club, never would television last? Only time have anyway, so it doesn’t hurt will tell, but there are some the profession,” Mordal said. negative signs already. The ratings for “Last While most comics do it Standing 3” for the love of comedy, some Comic are only in standup comedy plummeted in comparison in order to move into other to the second installment, areas of entertainment and it so much so that NBC chose is these few who are hurting not to air the finale(Comedy those who just want to be Central later aired it).

In the midst of holiday movies full of magical trains, sponges, and animated super heroes, one movie stands out despite its lack of an aquatic pineapple. Marc Foster’s new ﬁlm “Finding Neverland” stars Johnny Depp as Peter Pan playwright J.M. Barrie and Kate Winslet as a widow whose children captures Barrie’s imagination. This ﬁlm not only leaves you teary-eyed but captures your imagination as well. When eccentric playwright J.M. Barrie has a chance meeting with the Davies family of four young boys and their recently widowed mother, he is instantly drawn in by three of the boys’ over-active imaginations, and especially by the second youngest, Peter, who after the

Movie: “Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason” Meet Bridget Jones, a hugely neurotic, middle aged Londoner who until now hasn’t had a serious relationship besides for with Ben and Jerry. “Bridget Jones; The Edge of Reason” begins four weeks after the ﬁrst movie and as the sequel begins, Bridget (Renee Zellweger) has had six euphoric weeks with her boyfriend Mark Darcy (Colin Firth) who she believes to ﬁnally be the man of her dreams. But of course, no relationship of Bridget’s would be complete without a few slipups including a chaotic ski

Restaurant: Zazio’s, downtown KalamazooRadisson With its eclectic, big-city style atmosphere, Zazio’s is making its way to being the best place to dine in downtown Kalamazoo. Although the dress code is slightly higher than the average eatery, and the cost a bit pricier, Zazio’s will not leave you disappointed; this Italian restaurant has something for everyone. The formal dining area is spacey, yet comfortable for a formal (adult) family dinner. If you are looking for a more intimate and private experience, there is a smaller, low-lit dining

death of his father seems to grow many years beyond his own age. Barrie, whose own wife is unloving and withdrawn, becomes dependent upon the family of ﬁve for not only his writing but for his life. Barrie is able to spark the child within griefstricken Peter, his mother, his three brothers, and even himself, busting through a writers block and producing one of the best children’s plays of all time. “Neverland” sparks not only the Davies imagination, but everyone’s in the theatre, as well. Every character draws you in respectively. Depp once again captures the uniqueness of his character. He not only is able to play the playwright at times of fun and child-like emotion, but also at times of his own grief where you see glimpses of an adult James Barrie. Winslet emulates the newly single mother grieving for not

only the loss of her late husband but also for her free time, now having to raise four children on her own. She is able to portray every emotion subtly. The four boys all act well beyond their years. But Freddie Highmore as Peter Davies stands out. He is so outstanding in fact that Tim Burton will have him star in his remake of “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” alongside, once again, Johnny Depp. “Finding Neverland” is embodies the classic children’s tale of Peter Pan, while adding an adult touch. This adds up to a wonderful movie. But you need to have a little imagination in order to appreciate this unique ﬁlm. My bet is, Johnny, Kate and the rest of the Neverland cast and crew are looking forward to an Oscar.

trip and a dinner party disaster. Bridget’s extreme jealousy of Mark’s female co-worker, Jessica, and fears of her own ineptitude, leads to her breakup with mark and her re-involvement with her former lover Daniel, played by Hugh Grant (who looks more charming than ever, I might add). Coincidently, the two are assigned to work together on a travel show about Thailand, where Bridget is forced to choose between her love for Mark and Daniel’s irresistible bad-boy looks. When Bridget’s travels in Thailand go wrong, she lands in a Thai jail accused of cocaine smuggling and facing 25 years in prison. Not surprisingly, this incident is only one of many problems Bridget faces during

the movie, each one proving to be more slap happy and ridiculous than the last. Also, what we loved about Bridget in the first movie-her constant making a fool of herself, clumsiness and her adorable pudgy-cheeked smile is prevalent throughout “The Edge of Reason”. The sequel falls short from the first Bridget Jones because many of the jokes re-used from the first movie lost their initial appeal, but regardless the movie kept me smiling and laughing the whole way through. You’ll be left waiting to see whether there will be a third installment; I know I am.

area located at the back. There is an in-restaurant store as well that carries everything from wine to accessories for the kitchen. Although the ambiance is incredibly enjoyable, Zazio’s food unfortunately does not get a ﬁve-star rating. With the menus being entirely in Italian (minus the sub-titles that explain what you are actually going to eat), it posed to be quite a feat trying to pick out a pleasing (and mainly familiar) dish. These meals are not from a kiddy menu, though. They are balancing on the gourmet scale, and while the spaghetti was a bit too authentic, I do highly recommend you take a stab at the dessert list. For the high price Zazio’s is charging they are not making their meals very proportional.

In most every restaurant I have been to it has always been better to have too much food, rather than not enough. Aside from their foods, the service could not have been better; the large staff always provided service with a smile and made their best efforts to make my ﬁrst time at Zazio’s a pleasurable one. Even though this restaurant isn’t one you should choose if you are into sports-bar atmosphere and prices, everyone could use a little Zazio’s from time to time. This would be an excellent restaurant for formal or prom. All around, Zazio’s gets four out of ﬁve stars.

-Allie Morris

-Lauren Stine

-Danielle Duplissis

Sports athletics and leisure

Mustang

Minis

Another successful football season for the Mustangs In the last season of a 34-year brilliant career, Coach Bob Knight succeeded again as he led the Mustangs to the district final and a 7-4 record. Under the leadership of Knight and his two captains, quarterback Tim Mowry and running back Jordan Sherrod, the Mustangs ran over their opponents game after game, piling up an astounding 2,920 yards (a record 1,381 by Sherrod) on the ground. With Sherrod leading the offense and a defense that was second in the conference in ponts given up, the Mustangs weren’t an easy team to handle all throughout the year (just ask cross-town rivals Portage Northern who feel at the hands of the Mustangs 29-19 in the district semifinal). The Mustangs finished the season with a tough 28-14 loss to Hudsonville despite two receiving touchdowns by senior wide receiver Eric Schoolmaster. Schoolmaster, who had 5 catches for 71 yards, made one unforgettable grab after another all year and his over-the-shoulder catch against Hudsonville was more of the same. Look for defensive tackle Corey Scuglik and linebacker Sean Sterling to light up the league along with the rest of the junior class next year under a new coaching staff.

-Cody Ginter

Women’s Basketball finishes strong This year’s w o m e n ’ s basketball team surprised everyone with its outstanding effort in the final stretch of the season. Despite their 5-16 record, the Lady Mustangs came out strong in the district semifinal to end the year. The girls played Kalamazoo powerhouse, Loy Norrix, and trailed by only one point at halftime until falling behind late in the game. The Mustangs’ leading scorer was Kristen Eichorn with a whopping 17 points off the bench. The girls only trailed 2322 at halftime thanks to 11 second-quarter points by Eichorn. The second half came much harder as the Knight’ superior athleticism took over as they ran the final score to 51-37. The girls fought hard and hung in the game until the finish, but in the end the Knights were just too much. Loy Norrix then went on to beat Kalamazoo Central, and win the district championship and continue their dominance in the SMAC. Despite a heavy turnover of seniors for next year, the junior class led by Claire Schoolmaster should improve on this year’s record.

page thirteen December 10, 2004

Winter sports get started Previews of all Mustang winter sports

Men’s Hockey

Skating on thin ice, Lansing Catholic Central went home disappointed after the Mustangs’ 2-1 victory on Nov. 23. Justin Ackerson and Brett Frazier both scored, putting two points on the board and causing Catholic Central to throw in the towel. A week later, the Mustangs had no problem putting away Kalamazoo United, with Steve Parse netting two goals and Drew Mofﬁt, Nick Cross and Ackerson each chipping in one each. Incoming freshmen and other newcomers have a lot to live up to, considering last season’s 22-5-0 record and regional championship. The Mustangs also went to undefeated in Southwest Mihcigan High School Hockey League play, with a perfect 12-0 record. The hockey team is once again expected to go deep into postseason play this year. -Andrew Rosenberger

Men’s Basketball

Dribble, dribble, shoot, shoot, bring that ball to the hoop, hoop! The boy’s basketball team is expected to contend this year as it welcomes back a seasoned crew of seniors. “We will play as a team and reach our potential,” head coach Dominic Siciliano said about the upcoming basketball season. The team expects to go deep into the play-offs and be successful. Siciliano thinks that it will be a fun season with the boys, and that “no one player stands out.” They all stand out one time or another. The new seniors this year are: Tim Mowry, Eric Schoolmaster, Kevin Robinson, John Debault, Chris Gates and

The women’s swimming and diving has finished one of the most successful seasons in school history. Along with an easy conference win, the team finished well in state competition, placing 13th. “I am very happy when I look back at our season,” senior co-captain Kristen Ray said. “Our entire team really bonded this year and it shows by our record. Our success can also be due to the fact we have 12 seniors and each one stepped up and was a leader in one way or another.” State competitors consisted of: Beth Cyr, Lori Morton, Kim Betz, Kendall Barry, Catie Uggeri and Katie Rence. Catie Uggeri had a personal best of 0:25.3 in the second leg of the 200 freestyle relay. Kendall Barry, broke the school record with a time of 1:55 in the 200 freestyle. She placed sixth in All-State Honors swimming the 200 freestyle. Beth Cyr clocked a time of 1:40.24 in lead leg of the 200 freestyle. And Katie Rence was the first Mustang ever to place in the diving competition. In addition to the state meet, the team had two All-Americans, Kendall Barry and Lori Morton, and five Academic All -Americans.

-Amber Wessel

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Nick Winter to name a few. The 2004-2005 boys basketball season should be a good year. Be sure to schedule the basketball team into your Christmas schedule. They play tonight at home against B.C. Central, Tuesday at Loy Norrix and Dec. 17 at home against Mattawan. All varsity games begin at 7:30 p.m. -Shelby Collier

Volleyball Years of training, hours of weightlifting, and months of practicing all lead to one thing, the varsity volleyball team. The team, made up mostly of juniors and seniors, comes off a strong season last year with the Big 16 Conference title and is hoping for even better results this year. The girls hope to dominate the volleyball court this year with a strong group of players, the majority of which made up the team last year. Only one new player will be stepping onto the varsity volleyball court this year and her fellow teammates have complete conﬁdence in her and themselves. Senior Ashley Clark believes the team will come on strong this year because they are “intense and have more talent” than in previous years. “We’re stronger. We did a lot more lifting and physical training preseason so physically we’ll be stronger,” junior Katie Gormley said. Although the players agree that a good season depends on teamwork, there are expected to be a few outstanding players this year. Liz Racshke and Gormley are expected to help lead the team to an even better season than in previous years. -Sadie Leversee

Photo by Laura Smith/STAMPEDE

Junior Jon Conway takes down his opponent vs. St. Joseph.

Wrestling

Another season of wrestling is getting under way at Portage Central with the team already eyeing the conference championship. Having placed second in the conference two years in a row, the team is hoping to win this year. Coach Eric Verhey feels that the team fell apart partway through the season last year and had the potential to win the conference last season. He also told us that although it’s far too early to guess what will happen this year, as many things can happen such as injuries and ineligibility, he has high hopes for some individuals. “Individually, I’d like to see more guys qualify for the state

meet this year,” VerHey said. The team got off to a great start, beating St. Joe in their ﬁrst dual meet by a score of 40-33, despite having to forfeit three weight classes giving up 18 points. The team is led by a large group of seniors, including captains Jordan Sherrod and David Mannebach. -Andrew Thornton

Men’s Swimming Led by Captains Brad Lininger and Sam Ryder, this year’s swim team should contend for the conference tile. With incoming freshmen Aaron Wheatley and Levi Barry along with Lininger, Ryder and Evan Cyr and depth, this year’s team should ﬂourish.

Farewell to Coach Knight, the legend Tyler Polderman ................................

-Cody Ginter

Women’s swim and dive team completes excellent season

Stampede

Coach Bob Knight has been and will always be the true deﬁning symbol of the pride involved in being a Mustang. Ever since the age of 7, I always looked forward to playing varsity football at Portage Central, although I always worried that when my time came, Coach Knight would have already retired. Because my family is good friends with the Knights, I always made a point to ask Coach after the games by the entrance gates whether he was still going to stick around for my varsity years. Luckily for me, he did just that. The pride in being a Mustang is simple: it’s all about passion. Coach Knight was the greatest at teaching this. He always brought his teams together as a family, he always represented his teams with class, and most importantly, he was the reason you wanted to play football at Portage Central. Without Coach

Knight, in the last 34 years, Portage Central football could have been another meaningless high school sport. He showed the strength and character of being a Mustang; he deﬁned the term “coach” in the world of high school sports. Coach Knight coached my brother, Devon, long ago, who later went on to play football at Hope College. Before my varsity career, I’ve heard stories from my brother and his friends of how Coach Knight is the ultimate coach. I can say by now, my expectations certainly didn’t disappoint. I remember how he gave us all the impression of not just a great coach, but a great man as well. Coach Knight not only taught us players how to become successful at the game of football, but also how to be better people in our future lives. Every fall, we lived and breathed football, but it’s Coach Knight’s voice that always kept us going. Coach Knight never made it about himself. It was always

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about coaching and the talent in his assistants and players. But there’s no mistake about it, Coach Knight’s career was impressive. With a coaching record of 217-108, 14 conference championships, 11 playoff appearances and a 1977 State Finals appearance at the Pontiac Silverdome in Detroit, Coach Knight’s numbers add up to success. Coach Knight was wellloved in this part of the state; he was the most elite coach in Southwest Michigan. It was an honor to play for the man as well as it was to play against him. Loy Norrix Coach Ken Kubiak once told the Kalamazoo Gazette, “You always get pumped up to play a Bob Knight coached team . . . It’s what other coaches try to model their teams after.” Respect is only one of the key feelings this whole community has toward Coach Knight. When the football season was over, Coach Knight always supported every athletic event at Portage Central. He stressed that high school students stay

active through the years as he always taught the importance of memories throughout life. Coach Knight also taught the importance of competition and how it prepares one for the real world after high school. Coach Knight wasn’t just our coach, but our mentor as well. Coach Knight has been at Portage Central for twice my age. It is sad to see him go, but the respect and love for the man will always be shown. Next year will mark a new era in Portage Central football, but luckily, Knight has left his mark in the spirit and tradition of what it means to be a Mustang. As sad as it is to see him go, Coach Knight will always be a household name at PCHS. And for me personally, I salute a man who has been tremendous to my family and I, and a man who has taught me how to be a Mustang, and how to live my life. Thank you Coach Knight, thanks from all of us. Tyler Polderman is a sports writer for the Central Stampede.

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page fourteen

December 10, 2004

Sports

curses

Stampede

Sports

unwilling to die

athletics and leisure

25 franchises who still have the monkey on their back

By Tyler Polderman SPORTS WRITER

It actually happened this year. The Boston Red Sox won the World Series. But then what happens to the rest of the world of sports curses? Which teams are left to be poked fun at now? With the Boston Red Sox ﬁnally breaking Babe Ruth’s curse and setting themselves free from the comic relief they were used to, there’s no surprise that the Chicago Cubs take the plate for the worst cursed team in sports history.

Team

1. Chicago Cubs

There certainly are more curses than the Chicago Cubs’ in the world of sports, but the real question is, how long will they last? The Buffalo Bills have to make up for their four consecutive Super Bowl losses in a row, right? Maybe not. Below are the top 25 cursed franchises in the world of sports. In order to be cursed, a franchise must be one that has not won a championship in the last 25 years. The franchise must also have at least existed for the period of those 25 years.

Last Title 1908

More ‘curse’-ism was given to the teams that have been close to titles and failed (for example: Buffalo Bills, Minnesota Vikings, New York Knicks) than to the teams that have been just awful (for example: Golden State Warriors, Arizona Cardinals, New Orleans Saints). The Boston Red Sox are sure happy to have that gorilla off their back, but there are still 25 more gorillas to go around for everyone else. I guess there’s magic in the world of sports after all.

Top 25 Cursed Franchises

The Curse

Curse of the Billy Goat

The Scoop

The Red Sox victory gave the Cubs’ fans some hope, but they should be more hopeful for Steve Bartman taking a vacation if they want any success.

2. Chicago White Sox

1917

Curse of the Black Sox

It’s what you get for throwing the World Series in 1919.

3. Buffalo Bills

1965 (AFL)

Curse of O.J. Simpson

Making four straight Super Bowls and losing them all. Well, I guess that’s some kind of achievement.

4. Philadelphia Eagles

1960

Curse of Frank Gifford

After Eagles LB Chuck Bednarik knocked Gifford unconscious in 1960 with an intense tackle, Gifford snapped from his concussion and placed his curse.

5. Cleveland Browns

1964

Curse of Paul Brown

There’s ‘The Drive’, ‘The Fumble’ and Tim Couch. You’d think the Browns would want revenge sometime soon.

6. Cleveland Indians

1948

Curse of Chief Wahoo

Get rid of the logo and get with the current times. The World series in 1997 was overlooked, such a choke.

7. Minnesota Vikings

None

The Purple People Eater Voodoo Hex

Joe Kapp, QB for Minnesota’s ﬁrst Super Bowl loser, had been a star in the CFL. Upset that Kapp lost in the bowl and had tarnished the image of the CFL, Canada placed a curse upon the Vikings.

8. Utah Jazz

None

Curse of Michael Jordan

In reality what crushed the Jazz was simply an unstoppable guard from the city of Chicago.

9. Toronto Maple Leafs

1967

Curse of Dave Keon

No Cup ﬁnals appearances since 1967? Some fans say it’s because the popular, longtime Leaf was openly allowed to transfer over to the WHA in the year 1975.

10. Houston Astros 11. Indiana Pacers

12. San Giants

Francisco

13. Indianapolis Colts

14. Detroit Lions

None None

1954 (New York)

1970

1957

Curse of the Gun Curse of Darnell Hillman’s Afro

The Curse of Melvin Belli

Curse of Johnny Unitas and Art Donovan

The Curse of the Turkey

The manufacturers of the In the45ABA, Hillman had Colt. weren’t too pleased the biggest Afro in the sport. when the team changed its The Pacers from made the him popular trim it, nickname and they’ve lost once in the gun to the Astros. NBA Finals and five times in the conference finals. Coincidence? I think not. Belli pushed a trial against the team in 1962 because he was guaranteed a seat warming device at frosty Candlestick Park; he sure won his lawsuit but didn’t lift his curse. When the Mayflower moved the Colts out of Baltimore in 1983, Colts legends Unitas and Donovan placed a curse on the franchise at Unitas’ bar. Only one playoff win since their last NFL title meant sweet Thanksgiving revenge from all those turkeys on the team that always plays on Thanksgiving.

Art by Nolan Flynn/STAMPEDE

15. Chicago Blackhawks

1961

Curse of the Dollar Bill

What a stingy owner they had. Reluctant spenders are not rewarded with Stanley Cups.

16. Seattle Seahawks

None

Curse of Brian Bosworth

The Boz was so embarrassed and crushed after Bo Jackson destroyed him on a memorable night game that he cursed the Hawks – and they haven’t won a playoff game since 1984.

17. Washington ‘Nationals’

None

The Curse of Jarry Park

Some think the curse on the ‘Nationals’ began after the 1994 strike wiped out Montreal’s best team; actually, it began when the ‘Nationals’, formally known as the Expos, moved from Jarry Park to Olympic Stadium in 1977.

18. Philadelphia Flyers

1975

Curse of Bobby Clarke’s Dentist

Ever since Bobby Clarke and the Broad Street Bullies won the cup, the Flyers have reached the Finals only four times and the conference ﬁnals four more times without even raising the trophy.

19. New Orleans Saints

None

The Manning Hex

There isn’t much to say, so let’s just let it rest at it involves extra spicy Cajun shrimp.

20. New York Knicks

1973

Curse of the Frozen Lottery Ball

After the Knicks controversially got the ﬁrst pick in the 1985 draft and picked Patrick Ewing, the hoops gods placed a hex over Madison Square Garden to ensure a punishment would be ensured.

21. Tennessee Titans

1961 (AFL)

Curse of Jerry Glanville

Of course a curse can follow a franchise through cities. Who do you think it was that tackled Kevin Dyson?

22. Los Angeles Clippers

None

Curse of Dr. Jack

After the franchise – at the time in Buffalo – had won it’s ﬁrst ever playoff series in the year 1975, coach Jack Ramsay was ﬁred. It hasn’t won a playoff series since.

23. Portland Trail Blazers

1977

Curse of Dr. Jack

24. Arizona Cardinals

1947 (Chicago)

Curse of Don Coryell

Coryell led the Cardinals to playoff trips in ﬁve seasons in the 1970s. Oh yeah, he still got ﬁred. What a shame.

25. Atlanta Falcons

None

Curse of the Super Bowl Hooker

Fans of the Falcons can go ahead and thank Eugene Robinson for this one.

ESPN.com was a reliable source in the writing of this story.

Dr. Jack again? Indeed.