Vol 14 issue #2

Central

Stampede Friday, Oct. 31, 2008

Vol. 14 Issue 2

50 cents

Insider

Don’t break the bank with

the

college co$t$

Becoming Involved

Youth in Action pushes wellbeing of the student body

In a teetering economy, earning scholarships is a necessity

BY LAUREN MOON

Page 3 Mac vs. TV The great exodus from television to computer

Page 5 Year in Review

Page 12

A look back at the best plays, games

Herd in the Hallways

“I wanted something original that nobody else would have.”

-Senior Mary Radcliffe on her custom purse business, p. 8

PC

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

?Pop Quiz ? ?

Q: During the average lunch period, how many containers of fries are sold? a) 50 b) 100 c) 200 d) 500 For answer see Kudos p. 3

Become a ‘fan’ of the Stampede!

•Going out this Halloween? Submit your best costumes to our fan page!

•The best costume will win a IFT

G D CAR

@www.pcstampede.com

Stampede

Staff Writer

Emptied saving accounts, broken piggy banks and minimum wage paychecks can only pay for so many expenses in daily life.

Most students are barely making it by today, so adding other high costs to your bill will only cause stress.

Paying for college can be a huge burden on high school students wishing to further their education by a�ending a college or university. Luckily, there are several options to help lower the cost. Scholarships are awards given to students who are academically and socially involved in their high school career. These scholarships can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars.

Many local businesses and organizations will give a few scholarships a year to high school juniors and seniors. There are more scholarships on the national scale where students across the nation will be competing for these scholarships. Simply by searching online or visiting the guidance office, students can find more information and apply for these awards.

Unfortunately, some students do not even know how or where to start the scholarship application process.

“I haven’t really heard much about them until I talk to my counselor the other day,” senior Bri�any Galia said. “She gave me a book and a list of websites where I could apply for scholarships.”

Many scholarship committees try to award the most deserving students who meet their criteria. Most scholarships look at a student’s grade point average (GPA), extracurricular activities, income of the household and community service. These commi�ees look for well-rounded students whom they believe will succeed in future studies.

“Scholarships fall into two categories: those that pertain to students for academic achievements and others that fall under religion, financial aid and other specifics,” counselor Jim Herm said. “Scholarships and financial aid are huge, huge topics.”

“I always urge students to check the col-

ANDREW KRIETZ/STAMPEDE

SEARCHING

FOR GOLD: Counselor Mary Scott (left) runs through basic scholarship information with senior Brittany Galia (right). academic achievement, citizenship, dedicalege they are going to a�end,” he added.

Some local and national scholarships tion to community service, and in need of financial aid. The scholarship money will available to high school students: •Michigan Education Association be paid directly to the student’s college or (MEA) Scholarship – Looks for students university.

•Rotary Ambassadorial Scholarship applying a�ending public (and some private) Michigan schools. This will include – This scholarship is given to students four-year and junior colleges. The basis for wishing to study abroad. This program is to selection is academic achievement, school further international relations among people and community services and extra curricular from different countries. The Rotary will activities. The first consideration will go to give away a proximally $500 million dollars the children of the MEA Board and lower- worldwide to high school students.

Several students who apply to multiple income homes. This application is due by scholarship programs have the chance of Friday, Feb. 18,2008.

•AXA Achievement scholarship – This lessening the fi load of college expenses. scholarship will be awarding $10,000 to one However, many students have no idea where Michigan student and $15,000 to 10 national to start. Looking online and asking for help winners. A student can only be awarded from a counselor are a start.

There are also several web sites that this scholarship once. This looks heavily at one’s GPA, determination in and out of the can help the search for scholarships: www. classroom, respect for oneself and its com- fastweb.com is a site highly recommended munity and the ability to succeed in college. by students here. Other web sites include www.scholarships.com and www.collegeDeadline to apply is December 15, 2008.

•The Portage Rotary Club Scholarships scholarships.com.

Paying for college on your own can – The local Rotary Club will award several Portage Public School students scholarships become very difficult and overwhelming. ranging from $500-$3,000. To apply, the Applying for these scholarships will only student must be a resident of Portage, have help further a student’s education.

Students choose winner in mock election Senator Barack Obama chosen as next U.S. president

BY JENNY KILDUFF

Focus Editor

If it were up to the students of Portage Central, Sen. Barack Obama would become the 44th president of the United States. On Tuesday, we’ll find out if the general electorate agrees.

Election Day is just four days away, and the Stampede recently conducted a school-wide election to determine students’ preference for the highest office in the land. Conducted Oct. 1317, English teachers passed out ballots and students voluntarily chose their candidates for president and vice president.

The Stampede polled 1,243 students during those five days, and 738 picked Barack Obama, 369 chose John McCain. While most took the voting seriously, 136 students chose to write in candidates with much fewer qualifications, including Tina Fey, Scooby-Doo and the mysterious “Z-Man.”

Barack Obama 738 votes (59%)

John McCain

Other

369 votes (30%)

136 votes (11%) - *other notable vote-getters included Tina Fey, Jesus Christ, “Z-Man,” and Scooby-Doo Total Votes - 1,243 Students

ANDREW KRIETZ/STAMPEDE

News......................................1-3 hallways and city streets

View........................................4-5 opinions and editorials

Focus.....................................6-8 features and lifestyles

Vibe.......................................9-10 entertainment and events

Sports................................11-12 athletics and leisure

Ralph Nader (I) Sen. John McCain (R)

Cynthia McKinney (G) Bob Barr (L)

Charles Baldwin (I)

2

News

Stampede

page two

hallways and city streets

Oct. 31, 2008

Trick-or-treating for UNICEF

Challenge Day returns for second year

BY LAUREN MOON MARAH KLOSE/STAMPEDE

BY MARISSA MIARS

Staff Writer

We all know the drill. We walk up to the door in full costume and yell “trick-or-treat,” expecting the la�er to fall into our pillow case.

But for those of us who still partake in this childhood past time, we have the power to make a difference this Halloween.

25,000 children die each day from preventable causes. UNICEF’s (United Nations Children’s Fund) goal is to make that number zero. For over 60 years, it has saved more children’s lives than any other humanitarian organization in the world. This Halloween, UNICEF’s asking teenagers to join them by ‘trick-or-treating’ for

donations.

‘Trick-or-treating’ for UNICEF began in 1950 and continues to be an influential charity today.

By visiting the web site h�p://youth.unicefusa. org and clicking “collect,” one can print out an official UNICEF wrapper to tape to any canister you found around the house. The organization asks that students always be polite when going door-to-door and make sure to explain what the donation is going towards.

Even the smallest amount of money can have an impact. Every six cents donated provides water for one thirsty child. Two dollars provides nutrition for one hungry child. Fortyfour dollars supplies 20 children with school supplies. One hundred-twelve dollars provides

emergency blankets to 37 children and $200 immunizes 550 children against measles.

Once the money is collected, there are four ways to send in your donations: either online, by phone, by mail or at any Coinstar Center by clicking the “U.S. fund for UNICEF donation” option.

Those who are not going trick-or-treating this year can still get involved with “text-or-treat” for UNICEF. Text the word “TOT” to UNICEF (864233) and a $5 donation will be added to the donator’s phone bill for the month.

This Halloween, students who partner with UNICEF can go home knowing they have made a difference in the life of a child, rather than just the usual stomach ache.

Student author publishes book Senior releases a timely tourism manual for Beijing

BY AMNA AZAM

AMNA AZAM/STAMPEDE

THE NEXT DICKENS?: (Above) Senior Mier Wang’s book, “Beijing Tourism Manual,” helps guide tourists through the crowded streets of Beijing (Below).

Counting the Steps to Beijing

Photo Editor

Although many students have ambitions of writing books or novels, few dare to accomplish such a goal, especially in their senior year of high school. However, one determined senior set himself apart and actually wrote a book.

While on vacation in Beijing over the summer, senior Mier Wang published his very first book called the “Beijing Tourism Manual.”

Wang ended it at 188 pages and approximately 200,000 words.

Wang cites his influence for taking on such a palatial task to his homeland China.

“I don’t know if there’s exactly one event that influenced me to do this, but it seemed more like a culmination of different things,” Wang said. “I have family in China and they’re always encouraging me to do stuff like this and with the 2008 Olympics around the corner [at the time], writing a book for tourists seemed like a good way to get some cash in my pocket.”

Along with the incentive for extra cash, Wang also reported his desire to complete a novel so he could brag to his grand children.

Although the exact number of copies distributed in China is unknown, Wang states that the former president of the International Olympic Commi�ee received a copy of his book as a gi� when he a�ended the official 2008

2

years of Wang’s life spent writing his first book

Brief

17

the age at which Wang’s first book was published

Olympic games.

Along with his book being submi�ed to presidential officials, Wang also cites that being a senior in the limelight definitely has its positives.

“I’ve received a lot of compliments from friends and teachers for accomplishing this,” Wang said. “It seems I can’t go through a day without someone saying ‘Hey Mier, I heard you wrote a book.’”

French teacher Sara Heil, who wrote the official introduction for the “Beijing Tourism Manual,” also has praise for such a high achievement at such a young age.

“I am so proud of him, to accomplish such a task at such a young age very few students can do,” Heil said. “What I admire the most about him is the level of humbleness and downto-earth approach he has a�er he accomplishes his goals.”

As Wang moves through his senior year, he believes one of his earliest goals has been accomplished.

“I’ve always believed that publishing a book should be on my bucket list,” Wang said.

“I just didn’t expect it to come so early in life.

Now that I’m done, I’m just relieved.”

As for now, Wang will once again take place in the typical senior lifestyle and just “relax for now.”

188

pages of information on tourism in Beijing

A life-changing experience that affected so many of the upperclassmen last December is returning on Nov. 3 and Nov. 7 with one major difference: the freshman have first priority.

Two hundred students will have the chance to take part in Challenge Day this year. The applications were handed out to the freshman class and all 200 slots were filled within three days. The freshmen receive first priority since they did not have the chance to go last year.

Funding from the Kalamazoo Community Foundation will allow students here to once again experience Challenge Day. It will be mostly the same presentation with some possible changes from last year.

Several faculty members are also taking part in Challenge Day again this year. Assistant Principal Kim Lummis is once again this year’s coordinator.

“I was actually a facilitator at PCEC. I felt enough value in the program that I brought it here,” Lummis said.

A former accounting teacher, Jean Meersman, suggested Challenge Day to Lummis a few years ago. Meersman saw it featured on an episode of “The Oprah Winfrey Show” thought students could benefit from this life-changing experience.

Within the same week, guidance counselor Jim Herm also brought the idea of Challenge Day to Lummis.

Other faculty members participating in Challenge Day this year will be English teacher Barb Barry, hearing impaired teacher Mary Knecht, Spanish teachers Kathy Kaakani and Lindsay Steenbergen and family science teacher Sharon Curtis.

“I expected our student responses,” Lummis said. “It was neat to see how our staff responded.”

This year, Challenge Day will be conducted in the Stable behind the middle school, compared to last year when the program was given at local churches. These locations are based on availability, size and confidentiality.

The results of last year’s Challenge Day appeared to be very successful.

“It lived up to my expectations and beyond,” Lummis said.

Challenge Day takes the staff about 10 months to organize a�er receiving the funding for the program. Challenge Day also works into the Day of Kindness coming this spring.

Even though Challenge Day will be given to the freshman class, upperclassmen are able to sign up to be put on a waiting list. There are several opportunities that Challenge Day gives the student body.

All who participated agree; Challenge Day program is important and affective to those who have the chance to participate.

“

[Challenge Day] lived up to my expectations and more.

200,000 words including captions, titles, tables and charts

KIM LUMMIS

Assistant Principal

Forensics gearing up for new season

Party after school for a good cause

Fall parent-teacher conferences are scheduled to begin on Monday, Nov. 24 during the evening hours of 5:30-8:30. The following day — Tuesday, Nov. 25 — is a half day for students with conferences during the a�ernoon (12:30-3:30) and evening (5:30-8:30).

Following those three sessions of conferences, Thanksgiving weekend begins early with no school on Wednesday, Nov. 25, followed by the traditional four-day Thanksgiving break.

Have an urge to get on stage and be a part of a dedicated group?

This year’s forensics team, which will compete in February and March, is open to students wanting to get involved with broadcasting and other formal speaking events.

With a wide range of categories, there is something for everyone, including specific events for freshmen and sophomores. While the informational meeting has already passed, English teacher Theresa Mills is available to answer questions in Room 2018.

For Halloween, the STAND (Students Taking Action Now: Darfur) costume party is the perfect way to celebrate and support a good cause. It runs from 5 to 8 tonight, which gives trick-or-treaters plenty of time to hit a neighborhood or two a�er the party. Activities to look for at the dance are bobbing for apples, pumpkin painting and a costume party. Proceeds will help end genocide in Darfur.

STAND party

The 48th annual Breadli� event will take place Saturday, Nov. 22. The yearly tradition created by the March of Dimes, a nonprofit organization, fights against premature births. In Michigan, 15,000 babies are born prematurely each year. During birth, some babies do not survive while others face lifelong disability. For more information about how to get involved, see any Student Council member in Room 403 (3rd hour) or listen to the daily announcements for more information.

Parent-teacher conferences set for week of Nov. 24

Forensics

Students going door-todoor for babies

Fall conferences

Breadlift 2008

In

“

Charity offers students a chance to trick-or-treat for donations to save lives

Staff Writer

-Briefs compiled by Andrew Krietz and Sarah Erdman

News

3

Stampede

page three

hallways and city streets

Oct. 31, 2008

Teaching for a living New interns pick up experience for careers

BY KEENAN CRONYN

TEACHING,

LEARNING: Teacher intern Scott Vankampen assists Marc Uhlman’s history classes during 6th and 7th hour while students watch on.

GORDON ANDREWS

Government teacher

PHOTOS BY: ANDREW KRIETZ/STAMPEDE

“

“

… he’s truly concerned about the content [he teaches].

Design Editor

When college students begin the journey to becoming a teacher, there’s usually a step or two in between.

More o�en than not, that step is a pre-internship that is followed by an internship where they are given more hands on experience.

Throughout the halls and classrooms of Portage Central, it is not uncommon to see them running errands or grading papers, but truly there is much more to an internship then just doing small jobs.

In most cases, interns who are already finished with their pre-internship are given the opportunity to teach classes and build their own lesson plans. And in many cases, they are given multiple opportunities to do so.

In the case of Adam Channell, an intern with science teachers Karen and Jon Taylor, as well as Western Michigan University’s assistant lacrosse coach, he has been given opportunities with multiple classes.

“I guess it’s been pre�y good so far,” Channel said.

“I’ve made good relationships with the biology students and the chemistry classes have been ge�ing be�er every day.”

With interns’ feet already firmly planted in classes, it would seem like teachers would have plenty of idle time to keep up with different objectives, but like anything

else it, can have its ups and downs.

“One disadvantage is that I don’t get to know my students as well [as I could],” Karen Taylor said. “But if you have a good intern you have time to say, ‘let me perfect this’, or ‘hey, let me work on that.’”

There are ups and downs to almost every internship, but more o�en than not both intern and mentor come out winners.

Sco� Vankampen, an intern for Marc Uhlman and Gordon Andrews, has no problem seeing what he needs to take from the entire experience.

“The best part of interning is the experience,” Vankampen said. “I am kind of lucky, it’s my career and everyone here has helped me a lot.”

It is true that when in an internship one needs all the help they can get. Since they are only here for a few months, it is more than important to make the most out of their time here.

“One of the things that makes [Vankampen] so successful is that he really wants to do well,” Andrews said. “And he’s truly concerned about the content [that he teaches].”

Taking what they need from an internship is truly the most important part of interning. By teaching classes and taking away experience and relationships it is as if the step to teaching becomes a lot easier and a lot shorter.

Opening eyes through influence Through numerous efforts, Youth in Action promotes sobriety in high school students

BY JORDAN PETERS

Staff Writer

Clubs have always been a way to connect students with similar interests. From Montage to Rotary Club, students seek out an extra curricular that suits them best.

One group in particular has brought students together who share an interest in the wellbeing of the student body and the community.

Youth in Action (YIA) is a group whose vital focus is to prevent underage drinking and to address the problem of driving under the influence of alcohol The group itself is a student run organization adapted in Portage Central, under the leadership of the YIA’s advisor, Dana Grosser.

The group was established in the winter of 2006 when students came to Grosser for help to start the group in response to an accident involving fellow students.

“I agreed to start this group so I could tell them how my best friend and high school sweetheart had died in an alcohol involved accident,” Grosser said.

With the group being student based, YIA is o�en thought to be a group who addresses students about the consequences of drinking, but the direction that the members take is in fact aimed for the community.

“Our stance is that students know that it’s wrong to drink,” Grosser said. “They are educated that drinking has consequences and

instead of the focus being on the student body, they interact with the community to prevent underage sales.”

With the support of the community, YIA has participated in many community related activities such as sticker-shocker runs and compliance checks.

“The group would go around into stores in the community and place the stickers on packs of beer and liquor to remind the stores and buyers that the legal age for alcohol consumption is 21,” Grosser said.

Compliance checks have also been an event that members participate in.

People who are between 18 and 20 years of age participate with police officers and locate stores that will sell alcohol to the minors.

“We’ve had success in multiple stores, and have managed to bust two or three [stores] a year,” Grosser said.

In addition to their participating efforts with the community, YIA assists in anti-substance activities during prom week and visits elementary schools to educate how the media presents alcohol.

Senior Melissa Sparrow has been involved with YIA since its inception. Her efforts towards the success of this group are also personal, but

with the incentive to help others.

“If we can reduce the availability of alcohol, then we can reduce the problem,” Sparrow said.

Despite the lack of a�ention, the group continues to prevent alcoholic consumption and alcohol related accidents.

“For the most part, the group itself goes,” Grosser said. “Recently, it has been evident that the community intends to become more involved.” “[The group] is going to be more affective with the new groups forming in Portage,” Grosser said. “YIA will be on a larger scale from the support and a�ention from the public.”

Whether it is a personal motive to belong to YIA or a sincere wish to help others, the group continues to reach out to students who choose not to drink and to assure them that they are not alone.

“The YIA has shown people that other students choose not to drink,” Grosser said. “They are not as big of a minority as they think they are.”

STRENGTH

IN MESSAGING:

(Above) two stickers used by Youth In Action to spread the message of the illegality of underage drinking.

Portage Central welcomes new Mustang Congratulations to Paul and Spanish teacher Bonnie Moss with the arrival of their new baby boy, John Alan Moss. He was born at Bronson Hospital on Tuesday, Oct. 14 at 6:34 p.m. John weighs 6lbs. 3oz. and is 19in. long.

Teachers, schools honored for accomplishments Congratulations to Kent Baker as he recently recieved the “History Educator Award for Excellence in Teaching History” from the Michigan Council for History Education and chemistry teacher Jon Taylor for being named “Michigan Chemistry Teacher of the Year” by the American Chemical Society. Portage Central and Northern also have been recognized in Newsweek’s “Best High Schools” national ranking list of 2008.

Pushing the youth vote In an ongoing effort to get high school students to vote, the Social Studies Department registered 103 students during their Oct. 3 voter registration drive. Special congratulations to seniors Kelsey Bourbeau and Haley Hoard, who manned the tables along with several teachers throughout the day. Over half of the students registered that day will be able to vote on Tuesday and the others will be eligible to vote in local and state elections once they turn 18.

-Compiled by Andrew Krietz PC Pop Quiz answer: c) 200

4

Stampede “Congress shall make no law...abridging the freedom of speech,or of the press.”

First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution

page four

opinions and editorials

Oct. 31, 2008

The Central Stampede is a member of the Great Lakes Interscholastic Press Association (GLIPA) and the Michigan Interscholastic Press Association (MIPA). The purpose of the Central Stampede is to act as an open forum for students of Portage Central. The staff will

endorse Obama, McCain

E ED MP

Assistant Editors/Staff Writers...................Kelsey Benedict, ........................................Laurel Bowersock, Sarah Erdman, .........Kristina Krautmanis, Alex McCarthy, Marissa Miars, ......................Katie Moffit, Lauren Moon, Carly Nagengast, .....................Jordan Peters, James Phillips, Nathan Ranns, .....................................................Megan Scott, Irene Yearry Artists................................Bryant Girsch, Sarah Thompson Business Manager..............................................Regis Partee Adviser...........................................................Cheryl Braford

A ST

Nicole Chrusciel.............................................News Editor Christianna Gluys...........................................View Editor Jenny Kilduff..................................................Focus Editor Alaina Dely........................................................Vibe Editor Nate Frisbie...................................................Sports Editor Amna Azam.....................................................Photo Editor Keenan Cronyn.............................................Design Editor

N/ SO

Andrew Krietz and Marah Klose Editors-in-Chief

P OM

Stampede Staff

TH

For Portage students, this Tuesday will be a day to sleep in, hang out with friends and pretend to do homework. For all American citizens, however, Tuesday will be a remarkable day in our nation’s history.

Election Day 2008 will determine the next President of the United States, the man who will decide what happens in Iraq, what America will do about this economic crisis, where we get our fuel and how we fund our education a�er high school.

Americans are taking this election year very seriously. The intense debates, the heated “ad warfare,” the protests, the speeches, the endorsements and the interviews have all inspired an enormous interest in politics in people across the nation. Millions of people have a newfound desire to vote and to decide their future.

Amidst all this craziness, though, the facts are this: Senators John McCain and Barack Obama are arguably revolutionary and innovative men who have worked long and hard to prove they are the best candidate.

While the senators “fundamentally disagree” on several issues, they are confident in their campaigns and are determined to help this country get back on its feet.

With all this in mind, the Stampede has opted to not endorse Obama or McCain in this election. While it is a time-honored tradition for news publications, whose duty it is to inform and persuade readers, to pledge support for a candidate, we believe we should not endorse a candidate, but instead encourage both students here and the people of this community to get involved in this election.

The simplest way to help your country is to be informed. Know the facts on issues you find most important and relevant to you, your family and your peers. Understanding each candidate’s ideas and proposals is essential in discovering which party you identify best with and which candidate to support.

Although the majority of students here are too young to vote, there is no age requirement to volunteer at the Democratic or Republican headquarters in Kalamazoo, making late phone calls or going door-to-door this weekend.

Those who are registered to vote should do so. In 2004, only 47 percent of 18- to 25-yearolds actually voted, which means over half stayed home.

We encourage all 18-year-olds to exercise their civic rights on Tuesday. It will affect our generation for decades to come.

of the

ballots First-time voters

H RA

VOTE! Rare day off Tuesday coincides with historic election

battle

SA

Our View

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

View

editorin-chief

ANDREW KRIETZ

sports editor

N AT E F R I S B I E

The United States of America, that shining beacon of light, has lost some of its glamour during the past eight years. With an ongoing economic recession and wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, it is difficult to resist becoming involved and forming opinions about these crises. On Nov. 4, voters head to the polls to elect the next president, the next person with the judgment to set the stage for our future citizens.

The choice is clear: that person is Sen. Barack Obama.

As students and as Americans, we have an obligation to focus on the issues that pertain to us. Ma�ers of education, the economy and worldwide conflicts make it to the short-list of our host of problems needing complete change. Let me make it clear: America would not be the great country it is today without our strong perseverance and active encouragement in tackling these issues.

Unfortunately, Republican leadership during the last eight years under the Bush Administration (and during six of those eight years in Congress) has led our country down a backwards path of misguided rhetoric. The most obvious example was shown in October 2002 when the administration dropped the ball on capturing Osama bin Laden.

Obama’s vote against the war in Iraq signaled to the rest of the country that he easily carries the judgment to denounce an ill-advised effort in Iraq when a�ention should have been placed to the east, in the mountains of Afghanistan and Pakistan. As president, Obama pledges to remove troops from Iraq and focus efforts in those areas.

While foreign policy remains an important issue this election season, the economic crisis tops the rest, encompassing education and health care. Tackling the eight percent unemployment rate with “green jobs,” Obama’s economic plan focuses on reform and aiming toward the future. Essentially killing two birds with one stone, Obama’s new energy policies will give incentives on new solar, wind and clean coal technology while creating five million new jobs in energy alone.

Additional relief will result in tax breaks for 95 percent of American families, with an average savings of $1,000 every year.

If an individual makes over $250,000, he or she can expect to pay slightly more. In turn, the United States’ increasing $10 trillion debt will be offset with increased accountability, reform and efficiency over the nation’s spending.

Another economic issue involves health care policies.

Policies will not change; in fact, if one enjoys the policy he or she has now, one can expect to pay even less under Obama’s plan. If not, people may choose to receive new insurance. While health care may seem like a dull topic, Obama’s message of change not only resonates with concerned families, but also to us students in years to come.

Whether you’re months or years away, each of us will face the cost of college. Under an Obama administration, the first $4,000 of tuition will be free with 100 hours of community service.

Anything to get that extra weight off one’s back will be beneficial.

Also, unlike today’s complex college loan applications, it will only take a check in a box on a tax form to handle the entire process and give young adults more accessibility to financial aid.

With Sens. Barack Obama and Joe Biden up against Sen. John McCain and Gov. Sarah Palin, one must choose between judgment and experience or complete disconnection with the issues voters truly care about. A relatively unknown player a year ago, he has shown himself to have more than enough capacity to fit the role of President of the United States. With your vote, Barack Obama will place America in the position of a respected worldwide leader once again.

As we all know, this year’s presidential election will be historic. Either the first African American will be elected president or the first woman will be elected vice president.

More importantly, though, as the future leaders of this great nation, we must look at issues that concern us most and vote.

It is said that voting is our civic duty; it is our duty to vote for the candidate that will lead this nation back to where it belongs as the most powerful nation in the world, and that candidate is Sen. John McCain.

The number one issue for America is the economy. John McCain will change things for the youth that will benefit us as soon as this Tuesday. First, McCain will create jobs in all markets, especially in energy and power plants. Those jobs will help produce products for many markets outside of the United States. Most of the world’s consumers, about 95 percent, are outside the United States; we must reach out to them and expand not only our economy but the world’s economy as well.

Also, McCain will put higher taxes on companies outsourcing jobs overseas.

Next, undeniably, the price of gas, though it is currently dropping, has been a major hit on families in all economic classes. McCain will focus on energy independence that will lower gas prices and make different forms of energy available so Americans do not have to send money to the Middle East for something we can get here in our own nation.

Everybody has a different opinion on what needs to be done, and John McCain will work with people on both sides, Democratic and Republican, to make sure the economy is fixed soon. McCain’s plan will create thousands of jobs, in energy and nuclear power plants. He is taking care of two fundamental necessities for America with one plan.

Health care is something that goes hand-in-hand with the economy. McCain will make health care affordable and available. If someone is unhappy with the health care coverage in their area or at work, they can go out and get a health care package that suits them with a $5,000 government check to get him started. With this as an option, companies and local health care providers are forced to compete with more benefits and be�er coverage. Once again, McCain’s plan takes care of two problems with one plan.

There are other issues that students and young voters should be concerned about. One is education and how we are going to pay for it a�er high school. For education, McCain is not going to let schools keep failing. If teachers are not doing an adequate job, McCain will help them retrain for another job more suited for them. All generations should truly care about this because education will always be essential to the success of this nation. We must care about providing the best education possible and the only way to do that is to elect John McCain.

As for the war in Iraq, McCain understands what Obama doesn’t. The war in Iraq is a must-win situation, and we can’t just pull out, nor can we have a specific timetable for pulling out. If we don’t succeed, we can’t begin to imagine the consequences of any terrorist group rebuilding. If something unexpected comes up that is to our advantage, the last person we want in office is someone who has repeatedly said the war in Iraq is a mistake, as Sen. Barack Obama has said.

I believe in change, and McCain will provide that change.

McCain will put this nation back on the map as the greatest country in the world. Voters, I urge you to consider the facts, and the fact is that John McCain is best for this country. He and Sarah Palin won’t let this country fall apart. McCain clearly is the choice this Tuesday.

Andrew Krietz is Editor-in-Chief for the Central Stampede.

Nate Frisbie is Sports Editor for the Central Stampede.

Students

Speak Out

Should voters choose based on how they feel about the issues, or how they feel about the candidates?

achieve a balance between informing and entertaining our readers.

Editorials Staff editorials 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 views.

Letters As an open forum, the Stampede welcomes all members of the Portage community.

However, the staff reserves the right to edit letters based on length and content.

“The issues. It doesn’t matter who’s in charge because they’re going to take care of the country.”

RACHEL BEST Freshman

“The issues. It’s “The issues. If “The issues. Voting about what they’re they care about based on the candidates shouldn’t going to do when the candidates they’re in office.” happen.” themselves, it turns TYLER CHAMPION MEGAN MCQUEEN into a popularity Senior Junior contest.”

JEREMY KUO Sophomore

View

5

Stampede

page five

opinions and editorials

Oct. 31, 2008

Citizenship Crackdown

Difficult questions on new citizenship exam make becoming an American citizen more difficult in trying times

staff writer

N AT H A N R A N N S

about who can vote” and “What stops one branch of government from becoming too powerful?” are more common.

Although some prospective citizens may be severely disadvantaged by the language barrier, it is in some ways beneficial that the test was revised to be more challenging. Those that cannot answer six out of the 10 questions asked obviously do not know enough about America to be a part of the country. If people do not take the time to study extensively for such an important event, then they obviously do not possess the passion to work to become a citizen.

Unfortunately, there are many current American citizens that cannot succeed in passing the new citizenship exam.

Surveys and practice quizzes have been administered by reputable sources such as CNN, MSNBC and AOL in which ordinary Americans were given 10 of the new questions.

Many scored as low as four out of 10.

If some of the questions are at such a high caliber that many current

citizens are unable to supply the correct answers, then it is apparent the government made the exam too complicated. Many hopeful immigrants may be denied citizenship and forced to return to the harsh conditions of their country of origin. As many view America as a land of opportunity, many take on the vast journey to be�er their lives. If failing the new exam is the only obstacle blocking their new

Andre DeLisle, 11 1. What is the “rule of law”? (see above) I don’t know.

2. Why do some states have more representatives than other states?

It’s based on population.

3. What does the judicial branch do?

Handles ma�ers of court and state in deciding criminal’s sentences.

4. There are four amendments to the Constitution about who can vote.

Describe one of them.

Women’s right to vote.

5. Why did the colonists fight the British?

They fought for independence.

Score : 4/5

Nathan Raans is a Staff Writer for the Central Stampede

MARAH K

LOSE/ST

AMPEDE

More than just tricks and treats staff writer

KELSEY BENEDICT

One step ahead: Internet trumps TV

MARAH KLOSE Slamming the front door a�er yet another nonstop school day, I toss my bag aside and head straight for that plasma screen. No, not my TV, as has been in years past, but the computer and beyond: the Internet.

I have grown up alongside the Internet and seen it progress, particularly in the areas of entertainment and news. I’ve watched ritualistic TV-viewing sessions each week evolve into obsessive DVR recording and an “I’ll watch it later” a�itude, whereas the Internet is pervading nearly every aspect of life. Even TV itself can be found on the Internet in the form of full-length episodes on network sites and less-than-legal versions on YouTube.

Now, I’m not one to devalue the Internet, which has done truly remarkable things for communication, but I do want to take time to recognize that TV has lost its crowning glory in being the most prevalent form of communication and entertainment.

An IBM online survey reveals that 19 percent of their survey participants spend over six hours on the Internet daily compared

Citizenship Test Sarah Manis, 10 1. What is the “rule of law”? “a state of order in which I don’t know. events conform to the law” 2. Why do some states have more representatives than other states?

Because the population is larger in some states.

3. What does the judicial branch do? handles criminal and I don’t know. civil law disputes 4. There are four amendments to the Constitution about who can vote.

Describe one of them. too Anyone older than 18 can vote. general 5. Why did the colonists fight the British?

I don’t know. for independence Score : 1/5

10 questions can define the remainder of an individual’s life. On a daily basis, we are faced with questions both crucial and trivial and although they are merely common parts of our everyday conversation, 10 questions can determine so much. For prospective American citizens, 10 questions are the only obstacles standing between them and an endless realm of opportunity as a citizen of the United States of America.

Beginning Oct. 1, the government issued a drastic change in the citizenship application process, deciding to eliminate the original citizenship test and replace it with a more in-depth oral examination. Those wishing to participate in the test are provided with a pamphlet of 100 questions to study, and, upon being tested, are asked 10 of them. To pass, they must answer six of the 10 questions correctly.

However, these revised and updated questions are simply too hard. For many immigrants wishing to receive American citizenship, English is not their primary language. When faced with these meticulously-worded questions, they may find themselves baffled. Additionally, it may be an immense challenge for test-takers to form responses in a language other than their native one.

With the old exam, test-takers simply wrote one- or two-word responses to simple questions like “What is the White House?” and “What are the colors of the American flag?” Now, questions such as “Describe one of the four amendments to the Constitution BRYANT GIRSCH/STAMPEDE

editorin-chief

lives, then the government needs to reevaluate their past decisions for the good of America and countless individuals’ lives.

To measure the difficulty of the new citizenship exam, five sample questions were supplied to two students of different grades.

Here are there results:

to nine percent of survey participants who claim the same number of TV-viewing hours.

This makes me a li�le sad in retrospect.

I remember when I was in elementary school and I’d come home, watch my cartoons and then my parents would watch the news. We still watch the news, but it’s usually on in the background while we, of all things, surf the Web. It’s not that the TV doesn’t have plenty to offer in the way of entertainment, but the Internet is simply one step ahead, constantly being updated and is thus a much more interesting and interactive media form for this overstretched, over-stimulated generation.

In the spirit of childhood, I want to challenge every reader to take one li�le hour that’s usually spent trawling the shallows of Facebook or MySpace and use it to rediscover the quality entertainment available on most channels (not counting QVC or CSPAN) to bring back the now almost ‘retro’ fad of TV-watching.

Marah Klose is Editor-in-Chief for the Central Stampede

For some people, Halloween is about excessive amounts of candy. Others become excited when the opportunity to change their appearance for a night is presented. Still others thrive on the chance to pull pranks and scare their friends.

To me, Halloween is about all that—and more.

The excitement for the holiday was planted long before I was born—my greatgrandparents would deck their house inside and out with signs of the season.

Carved jack-o’-lanterns lined the front walk, mannequins dressed as the devil, witch and zombie costumes adorned the lawn alongside a handmade coffin complete with a Dracula mannequin. In later years, they would alternate dressing up as a witch or a warlock, then strike a pose and wait for trick-or-treaters to show up at their doorstep. If the trick-or-treaters ventured near, they’d wait until they were close enough to touch, and then move. To them, Halloween was be�er than Christmas. The enthusiasm was passed through the generations to my grandma, my mom, and then to me.

I love ge�ing ready for Halloween just as much as I enjoy the actual day.

Every year, my sister and I are both tempted to haul out the decorations and spruce up the house and yard early… say, September.

Costumes are always fun – while the homemade ones are clever, the store-bought ones are still sufficiently cra�y and spooky.

Candy, though a major part of the holiday to most, is meant to be earned, evaluated, and then traded with friends. Halloween celebrations didn’t always include candy, however.

Halloween originates from the Celtic festival of Samhain, which was celebrated on the night of Oct. 31, the day before the new year started, Nov. 1. The Celts believed that on the last day of the year, the worlds separating the living and the dead blurred and that the ghosts of the dead returned to Earth.

In celebration, the Celts would dress up in costumes and dance around sacred bonfires.

Needless to say, Halloween is a holiday that means different events and customs to various students. Maybe you’re in it for the sugary treats, maybe for the scare-factor.

Me, I’m in it for the fun of spending the day with my friends and seeing who can come up with the spookiest costume. Whatever the reason, Halloween provides opportunities for new traditions and fun every year.

MARAH KLOSE/STAMPEDE

Kelsey Benedict is a staff writer for the Central Stampede

6

7

Focus Stampede

page six

page seven

features and lifestyles

Oct. 31, 2008

Halloween

s t a e r T y

beginner

part of Halloween that the holiday is famous for: trick-ortreating. Every year, eager trick-or-treaters set out to fill their bags with mountains of Twix, Milky Ways, Crunch Bars, and … rulers? This year the Stampede has taken a look in students’ trick-or-treat bags of the past.

From Reese’s to Crunch Bars, it’s hard not to love those Halloween goodies, but according to students there is one candy bar they can’t live without. The winner of “Best Halloween Candy” is Reese’s peanut butter cups, followed closely by Skittles, Kit-Kat bars and 3 Musketeers.

For every candy students love, there is one they hate as well. The winner of “Worst Halloween Candy” is the Almond Joy. Other candies that don’t quite meet trick-or-treaters’ expectations include black licorice, Dots and off-brand candies.

As students have rummaged through their trick-or-treat bags, they have found treats in their bags ranging from gross to funny to just plain weird. Here’s just a few of the oddities:

uck l n i u’re o y r? ffit a e o Forget your costume this y Katie M tt,

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Pocket Change

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Coloring Books

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advanced

Ms. Remynse as Princess Leia

35

votes

i t n

s e ti

For beginning costume-cra�ers, try our beginner’s costume: dressing up as a feeling rather than an intricate character—like “Tired!”

? r a e Iw

Prayer Cards

co By: Chri stianna Gluys, Megan S

e

A complete guide for your night of fright

ck o s Between the er w pumpkin carving, witches, cauldrons, o decorations and fun costumes, there’s one classic lB

By: La ur

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Oct. 31, 2008

Ms. Steenbergen as Barbie

1 2 3

Find a cute pair of pajamas you don’t mind ge�ing dirty in case you decide to go Trick-or-Treating.

Using eyeliner or dark eye shadow, draw circles around your eyes to give the appearance of looking tired.

Grab a teddy bear and a blanket and you are all set for a night full of candy and scares.

intermediate

For intermediate costume-creators, try a superhero costume!

1 2

Assemble all the supplies you need: leggings/tights, superhero logo T-shirt (or plain white T-shirt, construction paper, tape, scissors, and glue to make your own shirt), a blanket and giant underwear.

3

Put on leggings first, then giant underwear over them.

Next, put on the T-shirt. Tie a blanket around your neck to act as a cape. That’s it! You are now ready for any Halloween excursions.

If you don’t have a superhero T-shirt, make your own!

Using construction paper, you can make a well-known logo, like Superman or Batman, or feel free to create you own. Cut out and glue if necessary. You can tape the logo to a white T-shirt.

For the advanced costume-maker try costume C, and check out this knight in shining armor!

1

Acquire a medium-sized cardboard box, a sharp pair of scissors or a knife, and a roll of silver duct tape. (If you’ve got it, silver spray paint is both easier to use and takes less time; be sure to paint the cardboard outside!)

2

Cut off two flaps of the top of the box.

These will be used to make the arm “greaves,” or arm covers, of the suit of armor. Coat these in either paint or duct tape, and then curl into tubes around each arm to fit and secure.

3 4

Cut two larger rectangles of cardboard to make the leg greaves. Follow the same pa�ern.

5

Take the remaining squares of cardboard and make them silver, too.

These will be the breastplate and back piece of the armor. Using two straps of duct tape (fold in half lengthwise so it won’t stick!), create a sandwichboard-style garment.

Feel free to embellish your suit of armor with a crest. Wear black or grey gloves and shoes, and even a helmet if you manage to find one. Top it off with a plastic sword and shield from the dollar store, and have a blast this Halloween!

8

Focus

Stampede

page eight

purses

Oct. 31, 2008

Passionfor

Cost of business $26 total price of custom-made purses

50¢-6¢ cost of extra additions on a purse

53

AND COUNTING

features and lifestyles

Sarah Erdman’s

show school spirit in ways

unique

It’s Friday, and along with the excited faces anticipating the weekend, blue and gold fills the hallway. The dyed-blue hair and the gold ribbons are frequently used to show school spirit.

There are other more unique ways to show Mustang spirit and show support for the school on game days, but also on other days during the year. Students can think of their own ideas too.

number of purses sold so far

ONE OF A KIND PURSES: Senior Mary Radcliff has started her own purse business, customers can pick their own material, making the purses one of a kind.

AMNA AZAM/STAMPEDE

Student entrepreneur learns the ins-andouts of business, finds success

BY MARISSA MIARS

Staff Writer

As students pass through the hallways this year, Buzz Lightyear, peace signs, animal prints, and every other fabric imaginable may pass through their field of vision. For those looking for a source to this madness, look no further.

Mary Radcliff, Central’s very own bag lady, has started a purse business, selling both custom and pre-made bags to students and adults alike. The business is named M Squared Custom Designs, a�er both Radcliff and her grandmother (who is also named Mary and does a majority of the sewing). Radcliff has sold 53 purses already and comments on how it all started with one trip to the mall.

“I went to the mall with my mom and

couldn’t find any [purses] I liked,” Radcliff said. “I wanted something original that nobody else would have.”

Radcliff has a wide selection of pre-made bags to choose from, or customers can pick out their own fabrics. All bags are reversible and can include a cell phone pocket and bu�on for no extra cost, patches ranging from one to four dollars, spray paint for two dollars, flannel baby blanket animals for 6 dollars, and extra pockets for 50 cents.

Pre-made creations can be bought at any time for just 25 dollars. For only 10 dollars, Radcliff gives students the option to buy their own fabric and give it to her to be sewn. Custom-made creations take up to two weeks to be made and are available for 26 dollars.

PC students aren’t the only ones taking

Getting personal

part in the purse craze. Radcliff has sold three of her creations to her step-mom and has a handful of customers in the Grand Rapids area who have reached her through her Facebook group “Murrry’s Purse Business.” For those who don’t have a Facebook and are interested in buying a bag, Radcliff suggests calling or texting her cell phone at 269-501-5492.

Senior Megan Raedy and sophomore Natalie Drabik have each purchased a bag from Radcliff and encourage others to do the same.

“She is really organized and takes suggestions well,” Raedy said. “She even has business cards.”

“I am very happy with it (the purse) because it’s stylish and fits my personality,” Drabik said. “The best part about it is its reversible so I can change it to fit my mood.”

the stadium.

For football games, get together a group of friends and deck out as much of the stadium as possible in our school colors. For instance, you can hang up blue balloons on the light posts by

Join a club, such as the Rotary Club or Environmental Club, and participate in different events. Beautification day, hosted by the Environmental Club helps clean up our school, for example.

A bonus for this event is that it counts for community service.

Write “Mustang” backwards on the front of your car so all people looking in their rear view mirror will know exactly what school you are from.

Another option is to write Mustang on your back windshield with window chalk.

Most people wear gold or blue shirts for football games, but to show you school spirit consistently, choose one of these unique ways.

Sarah Erdman is a staff writer for the Stampede.

Eric Alburtus

with

BY CARLY NAGENGAST

saying he had some heart issue,” Alburtus said. “They weren’t too sure if he was going to make it.”

Young, debonair and looks great in a suit Ben was in intensive care for two weeks and tie. Add a pair of aviators and he could and remained in the hospital for another week. pass as FBI. Sauntering purposefully about the “He was just tiny,” Alburtus said, halls, he keeps a steely eye on the school and a motioning with his hands. winning smile on his face.

Ben hasn’t had any medical issues “He’s a good man,” junior Skylar associated with his early birth since then, Sinclair said. remaining healthy to this day.

“He’s enthusiastic. He’s just amazing, A�er many years outside of the really,” senior Amanda Jeppesen said. classroom, Ann Alburtus has now returned Who is this mystery marauder? It’s Eric to teaching language arts at Portage Central Alburtus, master of the school. It’s Alburtus Middle School while Eric remains principal who signs the important papers, keeps the here. The question is o�en asked if he has big red phone in his office and mysteriously higher career aspirations, and if so, why hasn’t memorizes everyone’s name. But do students he reached them by now? really know him? How much do we really To start, Alburtus admits blatantly that know about this he’s not perfect. man?

“There [are] For one, lots of things I do Alburtus is a pre�y poorly,” romantic for his Alburtus said wife, Ann. They’ve with a smile. known each “And I could line other since their up 12 people right elementary days outside my door and started dating really quickly to when they were tell you about both 18. They’ve that.” been together 20 Alburtus, years. not too long ERIC ALBURTUS “Nothing in my ago, thought a Principal life has ever been superintendent 20 years, nothing,” position was Alburtus said. “Except for her. I’m very lucky.” where he wanted to be, but his career aims When they were dating, Alburtus carved have changed since then. his and Ann’s initials into a tree by the creek in “It is crystal clear to me that that is not Ann’s parents’ backyard. something I am ever interested in,” Alburtus “The tree fell down over the creek, so you said. “Do I get tired here sometimes? Sure. could still see the initials,” Alburtus said. “So And I do get frustrated like we all do when we that’s where I proposed to her on Christmas have hard times? Of course. But I feel like I can of 1993.” do something, you know what I mean? … In Eric and Ann have three wonderful the 15 years I’ve been here, with the exception children: Ben, Leah and Graham. Ben and of maybe five or six days, I still don’t feel like Leah’s names were ones the couple always I really come into work every morning. And liked, but Graham had a bit more meaning that is pre�y cool.” behind it.

Alburtus contributes the longevity of Graham Greene, a terribly bi-polar British his happiness with his job to, “at the risk author, is one of Alburtus’ favorites. of sounding cheesy,” great colleagues and “He was a horrible man, but a great great students, who keep him coming back writer,” Alburtus laughed. “Absolutely every day. horrible man.”

“I feel like I can only be good at Alburtus and his wife experienced something if I’m excited about it, and I can put “the worst nightmare that any parent goes my whole self into it,” Alburtus said. “And through” when their son Ben was born eight you can definitely do that at Portage Central weeks premature.

High School. If I can’t do that, then I don’t “That first night, the doctor came in think I’d do very well at my job.”

Staff Writer

“

In the 15 years I have been here ... I still don’t feel like I come into work every morning. And that is pretty cool.

AMNA AZAM/STAMPEDE

“

Vibe entertainment and events

page nine

Oct. 31, 2008

“Here’s Johnny!”

Dinner and a

with

Christianna Gluys

It’s time to stop wasting your money on haunted houses this Halloween. Instead, watch a classic scary movie that will make you never again want to peer down a hallway or hear the word “murder” a�er seeing “The Shining.”

Sure, some classics seem very outdated, but “The Shining” will creep even the most manly of men out. Writer Jack Torrence (Jack Nicholson) and his family are sent to look a�er the empty Overlook Hotel for five months during the offseason. During this quiet stay, Jack begins to write a novel.

His son, Danny, however, has a sinister imaginary friend who controls much of Danny’s eerie behavior.

A fav orite As the plot thickens, recip e from the C becoming creepier entra l Stam and more mind-bending, Jack begins p ede 1. Mix o ne pa c to see people, and talk to k L sit for five age of instant people who once visited c m hocolat 2. Stir 8 inut. e pudd oz or worked at the hotel. ing int cooki . of Cool Whip o two cu . into pu As the hotel begins to ps cold dding a 3. Place milk. nd 1/2 one tea control Jack’s mind, two s po packag cup 3/4 e of cru li�le girls keep leading to of the w on on crushe shed or d 4. Top a eo the one room which must be with re y up with pu cooki in bott ma dd om of e gummy avoided—Room 237. ach cup worms ining cooki. ing. , then fi .

Refrige Expect the unexpected. ll rate for an hou Though some scenes are r. Garn ish wit very graphic, others will scare h you on more than just a visual level. The brightly lit hallways and rooms in “The Shining” will make you afraid of more than just the dark.

MOVIE

Lykke Li: Youth Novels (LL Recordings, June 6) This Swedish indie sensation released her record to the United States in June and it is steadily gaining popularity. Though the album consists of a substantial amount of rather typical, but still appealing, “indiegirl” music with acoustic guitars and simple beats, there are a few songs that stand out. In those certain songs, Li drops her breathy singing for rhythmic speaking, and combined with vague orchestral melodies as a backdrop, the effect is eerie and deep. Li is predicted to be “the next big thing” on the European indie music scene, and may be on her way in the United States, too.

Download now: “Window Blues” Keane: Perfect Symmetry (Universal-Island Records, Oct. 13) With the release of this English band’s third album, it is clear they have become something more than a Coldplay knockoff in the past four years. They’ve kept to their “no-guitar” standard, but have added more important drum parts, which gives their previously-melancholy sound a richer feel without being too deviant or radical. Altogether, the album is both classic and unconventional, as it should be.

Download now: “Pretend That You’re Alone” Nikka Costa: Pebble to a Pearl (Go Funk Yourself Records, Oct. 14) Compared to James Brown and Janis Joplin, this funk-and-blues singer has a lot to live up to and she does it pre�y well.

True to the genre, the mellow, easygoing vibe carries through the album, even in the more upbeat tunes, but it never becomes slow or sad. The album is satisfyingly smooth, and Costa’s gorgeous, Joplin-esque singing makes it something special.

Download now: “Can’t Please Everyone”

A

lucky read

BY JENNY KILDUFF

9

Stampede

Focus Editor

A heartwarming story of a man who walks from Colorado to North Carolina in search of his destiny, “The Lucky One” will make the reader laugh, cry and leave any audience with an overall sense of contentment.

A�er three tours in Iraq, Marine Logan Thibault goes in search of a woman from a photograph he found during his first tour. He has lived through an extraordinary amount and seen many of his friends not come home. Could the photo be the reason he did? His best friend Victor has convinced him it is his good luck charm and is the reason he has survived so much.

The book captures three different perspectives: Logan; Beth, the girl he has been searching for; and Keith Clayton, Beth’s ex-husband and the first person Logan encounters in Beth’s hometown, Hampton.

Once he finds the girl he’s waited over five years to meet, he finds there is more between them then he ever expected. Is this his destiny?

Nicholas Sparks has been able to capture our hearts before with books such as “The Notebook,” “Nights in Rodanthe,” “A Walk to Remember,” and several others.

This one will not leave the reader disappointed.

The first chapter starts off strangely, but “The Lucky One” pulls the reader in quickly as the book continues.

Snuggle up and get ready to se�le in for a few hours to read this cute, romantic, yet different love story.

With Alaina Dely Dir t Cu ps

New meanings around the world

BY KRISTINA KRAUTMANIS

Staff Writer

Candy. Parties. Food. Drinks. These are all things are associated with Halloween. As other holidays, like Valentine’s Day, Oct. 31 might be looked at as a “Hallmark Holiday”.

The media created this holiday so people would spend money on food and decorations for parties and get-togethers.

But what we tend to forget is that in other countries, Halloween has much more of a meaning than pumpkins and candy corn.

Though many other countries do have children trick-ortreating and running around in costumes, for many this is a holiday of family, harvest, and happiness.

In Mexico, Latin America and Spain, this day is called El Día de los Muertos—the day of the dead. These cultures celebrate and remember those in their lives who have died, and rather than being just one night, they celebrate for three days.

Food, drinks, photographs and flowers are le� out by graves. It is not a day of mourning, but a day of remembering.

The Japanese celebrate the “Obon Festival,” and, similar to the Latin festivities,it is dedicated to the spirits of ancestors.

Lots of food is made and bright red lanterns are hung everywhere. Candles are lit and placed into lanterns, then set afloat on rivers and seas. The fire is supposed to guide their lost loved ones back to their families.

In Czechoslovakia, chairs are placed by the fire on Halloween night. There is one chair for each living family member and one for each family member’s spirit.

In Korea, the festival similar to Halloween is known as “Chusok.” Families gather to thank their ancestors for the fruits of their labor. While visiting graveyards and tombs, families

HAVERSTICK PHOTOGRAPHY/STAMPEDE

CLEBRATIONS AROUND THE WORLD: (Above) the

Japanese Obon Festival, (right) Mexican Day of the Dead.

DESTINATION360.COM/STAMPEDE make offerings of fruit and rice.

Halloween isn’t all about ge�ing the most candy out of all of your friends. Around the world, Halloween is regarded as a day to remember those who have died and celebrate their lives. The association with death, skulls, vampires and other scary things is only a misinterpretation of what it really is.

Celebrating the life that there once was, and the life ahead of us.

Waiting for an

encore

Patience, Patients plan upcoming album

BY MARAH KLOSE

Editor-in-Chief

When the weekend arrives, most teenagers just think about relaxing and having a good time with friends.

Senior Ben Cooper spends most of his weekends a li�le differently than most: playing shows or recording an album with his band, Patience, Patients.

The self-classified “indie/ experimental/rock” band is comprised of four members: Kirk Depierre is a graduate of Paw Paw High School who plays guitar and sings main vocals; Cooper plays guitar as well and sings backing vocals, alongside his brother, Ian Cooper, who is the drummer; Jason Rhew, another Portage Central graduate, plays bass for the group.

“I came into the band about a year ago with [Rhew] and we started [the band] back up,” Cooper said. “So it’s been about a year with this lineup.”

Patience, Patients has played in several major local events, including the Paw Paw Wine & Harvest Festival in early September. “[Wine & Harvest Festival] was

PHOTO COURTESY OF BEN COOPER/STAMPEDE pre�y significant for ROCKING OUT: Senior Ben Cooper (left) rocks out with his us,” Cooper said. “A brother, Ian (right). lot of people knew Kirk so they came out all agreed that we would all miss this to see us. Other than that, we’ve played and regret it if we completely stopped mostly in bars or cafés. Some places are playing together. We are going to write only music venues but most have shut and record and see how things go for a down because there’s not much business while.” anymore.”

The band’s discography isn’t as Junior Becca Mundo considers officially developed as they’d like it to be, herself a fan of the band a�er working but this break from performances aims to with them briefly. expand that area of their music.

“I’ve designed fliers for all kinds “Last fall we finished a three-song of bands including Patience, Patients,” EP entitled ‘Renovatio.’ The name comes Mundo said. “They really know how to get the crowd pumped. They’re energetic from the Latin word ‘rebirth,’” Cooper said. “It seemed to fit the change that and their music reaches out to a variety came about in our style of music and of tastes.” the lineup change. The old lineup of However, despite a dominating Patience, Patients recorded a 10-song crowd presence, Patience, Patients has CD before Jason [Rhew] or I were in the put shows on hiatus in exchange for band called The View From Above.” more recording to get a full album out.

All three songs from the EP, as well Their last show on Oct. 11 brought about as a song from the long-awaited album, this change in the band’s outlook. are available for listening on the band’s “[That show] resulted in a lot of MySpace, as well as for purchase. frustration and some disagreements “I think everyone should give between some of us in the band,” Cooper them a try and at least check out their said. “I think we’ve worked some MySpace,” Mundo said. stuff out between each other and we

10

Vibe

Stampede

page ten

entertainment and events

Oct 31, 2008

MICHIGAN Gather ‘round, thrill seekers, as we scour the area for the

BY ALEX McCARTHY, NATHAN RANNS, AND MEGAN SCOTT scariest haunts around Staff Writers The Homer Mill dominates the world of haunted houses like Kobayashi dominates competitive eating.

The massive mill, which could probably hold the entire population of the village of Homer, is an intimidating and creepy building. As the line to enter grows shorter and shorter, one’s heart rate accelerates to a terrifying rate. As soon as the first black barrier is passed, prepare for more dazzling visual effects than a Fourth of July show.

With incredible animatronics, well-trained actors, and perfect usage of lighting (mainly strobe lights), the Homer Mill is nearly devoid of flaws.

Unfortunately, like any major a�raction, crowds flock to the Mill and pedestrian backups

PHOTO COURTESY OF HAUNTED.ORG

d, er Roa w o fl y 855 Ma I, 49120 M Niles,

eet, on Str r y B .

109 N MI, 49245 , inside the Mill itself aren’t Homer uncommon.

For those who prefer to not be scared, a restaurant connects to the Mill, where

ALEX MCCARTHY/STAMPEDE

For the middle-of the road thrill seeker, Niles Haunted Scream Park is the perfect spot for your Halloween night. Here, customers are presented with a vast variety of a�ractions, appropriate for all ages and preferences. The main a�raction, “The Niles Haunted House,” is a large, dark abyss filled with scares around every twist and turn. However, it seems as though the creators tried to throw in too many clichés, and a�er a few minutes, upcoming events such as objects popping out of walls and ceilings become predictable and tiresome.

In addition to the main haunted house, customers are offered a hayride, which would only seem scary to children under eight. The “Field of Screams,” a popular a�raction at the park, consists of a confusing corn maze with spooks every way you turn. “All Hallows Evil” takes patrons through masses of the living dead, but relies too heavily on noises and not enough on scenery. “Nightmare at the North Pole” is a typical “North Pole gone terribly wrong,” and visitors can expect deranged elves and a mad Santa throughout their journey. A�er you have covered all of the a�ractions (each a�raction is separate, but the whole tour is $22), there is a si�ing area surrounded by food vendors and, to top it off, a big screen that plays scary movies all night long.

PHOTO COURTESY OF RONRADEMACHER.NET

oad, vine R 49009 a R 6 MI, 765 azoo, Kalam

you can enjoy a relaxing meal while listening to the screams of those going through the haunt.

For those who are easily scared and prefer a more low-key fright, Psycho Ward, located at the Kalamazoo Speedway, makes a strong, somewhat unsuccessful a�empt at horror.

Not only are some of the props cheesy, including of a he�y amount of swimming noodles, but actors prove to have difficulty staying in-character a�er the first scream.

If your reason for going to a haunted house is to hold hands with your best friends and cuddle up to your sweetheart, fearing what lies around every corner, then the Psycho Ward is not intended for you. The narrow walkways and tight rooms leave li�le area to walk, let alone breathe comfortably.

The Psycho Ward makes a nice a�empt at a haunted house but fails in scaring the majority of the crowd that a�ends: teens.

Sports

11

Stampede

page eleven

Oct. 31, 2008

athletics and leisure

M inis

Playoffs start tonight in Caledonia

ustang

volleyball

Record: 39-10 Next Game: League tournament tomorrow @ Harper Creek at 8 a.m.

Key seniors: Kelsey Ray, Kristina Hawkes, Stephanie Murray Coach: Dawn Jaqua

“

We have a lot of fun on and off the court, which makes us a stronger team in the end.

Sophomore

“

TAYLOR GALLOWAY

With playoffs starting at 7 tonight, the football team ended a successful regular season run with big wins over Portage Northern and Loy Norrix. Its only loss, a frustrating 28-27 overtime loss to Ba�le Creek Central. Tonight, the Mustangs take their 8-1record to Caledonia (9-0), a team that reached its perfect season with help from three overtime victories.

NATE FRISBIE/STAMPEDE

DAY: Sophomore back up QB Kyle Cutler (above left) watches senior starting quarterback Gerrit Rauch. Junior tailback Spencer Munson (below) takes a handoff to the house with a block from senior lineman Chase Arbanas.

RUNNIN’ ALL

Ford Field

NATE FRISBIE/STAMPEDE

Here we come

men’s soccer Record: 12-5-3 Past scores: District champions; 3-1 win over Northern; 2-0 win against Rockford; 1-0 loss to East Kentwood in regional finals Next Game: Season over Key Seniors: Rich Campbell, Taylor Kimbrel, J.D. Meyer, Nam Le, Kevin Roose Coach: Tim Halloran

“

ALL PHOTOS BY

We had a brand-new coach, and nobody knew what to expect. We now started buying into his system, and it’s really paying off.

“

RICH CAMPBELL Senior

KISS NATE FRISBIE/STAMPEDE

wrestling Last year: Finished with an 8-8 record First match: Saturday, Dec. 6th, @ Vicksburg Key returning players: Levi Stace, Adam Fahs, Nick McIntyre, Chris DeYoung, Mark DeYoung Coaches: Eric VerHey and Ken Haughn

“

Starting the year with greater intensity in the practice room, we look to be in the hunt for the SMAC Central Championship.

Co-Head Coach

“

ERIC VERHEY

NATE FRISBIE/STAMPEDE

-Minis compiled by Katie Moffit and Laurel Bowersock -current as of Oct. 27, 2008

FOR GRABS: Senior Brian Massey tries to make a catch against Kalamazoo Central.

UP

ME:

Senior Joe Salerno kisses the Dr. William Kavanough Trophy, awarded to the winner of the Central vs. Northern football game each season.

ARM: Junior Andrew Fleetwood is stiff-armed

by Battle Creek Central running back Larry Caper.

STIFF

Chants aren’t a big deal in the heart of competition Sports Editor

N AT E F R I S B I E

Since I entered this building in September 2005, administrators have enforced policies I generally agree with, from banning cell phones to the stricter enforcement of the dress code. For the first time in my high school career, though, administrators have asked for us to do something, and I can’t disagree more with their decision. It all started with a simple pep assembly to kick off the anticipated Homecoming week.

As you all know, competition between classes – in any high school—has existed for generations. The

major concern was the chants that might be directed at some members of the student body. Mainly, it was, “Go home, freshmen!” that people were throwing fits about.

When I asked freshman class adviser Rob Hoopingarner about the cheer, he told me the chant was bullying and rude, equating it to armed robbery.

They said that just because armed robbery is not as severe as murder, it doesn’t mean we should allow it, in the same way that bullying is not as severe as physical intimidation. Still, I fail to see a comparison between violent assault and a harmless chant.

Seniors came up with many reasons why the chants should go on, including they were given that treatment, it was their right and worse

things could be chanted.

My belief is that handling the adversity of a simple chant can be a lesson in maturity. Life is not always fair, and sometimes everyone will be picked on or singled out. It shouldn’t be hard to see that a chant is harmless.

It’s hard to believe that a simple cheer that the freshmen could have come right back at the seniors, would make them and their advisers feel bullied. This is not a case of bullying; it is simply a ma�er of making a mountain out of a molehill.

The second case for the chants is that in the heart of competition, we all want to win. It’s only human nature. If there is no desire to win, then there is no desire to compete.

In the future, I fully expect other classes, to chant “go

home seniors” if they beat us come winter homecoming.

Competition drives every aspect of life whether at school, work or in sports.

Along with competition come emotions, which can be hard to control, but what comes with good or bad emotions are not always negative. Chants are a part of competition between everyone, from professional athletes to homecoming and challenges between grades. Chants shouldn’t be stopped unless vulgar or unethical language is used; chants and cheers make it worthwhile to watch any and all competitions.

So I say, “GO HOME, FRESHMEN!”

Nate Frisbie is Sports Editor for the Central Stampede.

12

Stampede

page twelve

Sports athletics and leisure

Oct. 31, 2008

Winning ways continue Miniswomen’s swim/dive ustang

Four teams add photos to ‘wall of fame’

BY NICOLE CHRUSCIEL News Editor

“

We lost a bunch of seniors, so a lot of girls had to step up so we could succeed as a team.

ZOE WIETFELDT Junior

AMNA AZAM/STAMPEDE

Teams will be added where the last left off on the ‘wall of fame.’

“It’s really exciting because being a senior, we’ve been trying for so long,” senior Mary VanderVries said. “It was our goal for this year, and we can’t wait to see it.”

The main focus of the season was to get a picture on the wall; seniors especially aimed to accomplish the task hoping to have a memento le� in the halls to be remembered forever.

“Before every match we’d have a meeting, a team huddle,” VanderVries said. “The only thing [Marc] Uhlman would say is, ‘picture on the wall’.”

With a successful final season, the senior players will always have a place to be remembered in the school’s “wall of fame.” As they bid their farewells, they have hope for next year’s team.

“There’s been lots of competition to

be on the varsity team this year,” Martin said. “It’s such a young team. The team is amazing, they’re all working so hard and there’s so much talent.”

As for future women’s golf, VanderVries hopes the team will continue to flourish.

“They could be [on the wall],” VanderVries said. “It’d be hard to beat our van rides and dance parties this year—it gave us our positive a�itude.”

Wytko will continue to coach the remaining men’s and women’s cross country teams and continue to strive to display additional pictures on the wall.

“My goal is to get the kids to strive to be up there. You see adults coming back and they see their pictures up there from like 20 years ago, and that’s really cool.”

Staff Writer

A ball bounces from person to person like a game of hot potato. Each player passes with efficiency and finesse. A�er an intense round lasting for several minutes, the small, bean-filled cloth bag slips out of sync, and the game of Hacky Sack is over.

Hacky Sack, a game in which anywhere from two to 20 people gather in a circle and kick a small spherical beanbag around, is becoming more and more popular around campus.

Frowned upon by teachers, enjoyed universally by students, it is a game of great skill and precision, and yet seemingly anyone can pick it up and play.

The name “Hacky Sack” isn’t the actual name of the sport or the game. Among the elite and the purists of the sport, the game is called “footbag.” Hacky Sack is actually the name of the company that makes footbags (Wham-O, Inc.), similar to how flying discs are more commonly known as “Frisbees.”

Ma� Pare, a senior and Hacky Sack enthusiast, said he can be “kind of competitive” during matches and holds a long record of kicking the ‘Sack around for about three years.

Still, he says he plays for recreation. “It helps me out with my hand-foot coordination,” he said.

There are three main types of Hacky Sack: footbag net, freestyle footbag, and circle kicking. Circle kicking is the kind

most seen and played—a group of people standing in a circle kicking the bag to each other. On the other hand, footbag net is played almost exactly like badminton, with two players facing each other off on opposite sides of a net and trying to score points on each other. Freestyle footbag is more like a dance-off than a game, as both players try to rack up as many tricks as they can to outscore their opponent.

Pare is not the only student who enjoys a good game of Hacky Sack—novices as well as veterans can join in the fun.

Paul Marciniak, a sophomore, has only been playing since the summer, but is already a master, owing his skill to playing with his friends much of the time. He can even “stall” the Hacky Sack on his head. His reasons for playing are mostly boredom rather than for any athletic cause.

“It’s basically ‘cause it’s the only fun thing at school… you can’t really do anything outside,” Marciniak said.

John Zomer, a junior who exudes Hacky Sack ability like a light bulb gives off a bright glow, uses the game of Hacky Sack for a bit of both reasons. “I play soccer, so it helps with my footwork and stuff,” he said.

“But mostly I just do it for fun.”

Some don’t consider Hacky Sack to be a sport— just grab SARAH THOMPSON/STAMPEDE a tiny beanbag and kick it around. It’s easy and simple, but has a complicated edge, requiring coordination and skill gained with experience: the true definition of what a sport really is.

New sports season right around the corner

BY JAMES PHILLIPS

years and looking forward to tryouts, practices and games.

Staff Writer Ma� Tabor, head coach of the With the snow of winter coming women’s varsity basketball team, can’t soon, high school sports fans can rejoice wait for the upcoming season. about something.

“I think varsity will be a li�le be�er While fall sports are coming to a than last year,” Tabor said. “Last year close, a whole new group of activities the JV team went undefeated, and we’re is coming with the change of seasons. ge�ing a lot of those girls this season, so Coaches are eager to get things started we’re looking forward to that. and build upon the successes of past “I expect to see tryouts be more like the first day of practice. If they work real hard, come game one I think they’ll be ready.”

However, in some cases the head coach said it was too soon to say.

“We’re losing eight seniors,” men’s varsity basketball coach, Corey McNeal, said. “We’re ge�ing a whole new group of kids.”

That being said, McNeal still has high prospects for the new seniors.

“I hope that a lot of them step NATE FRISBIE/STAMPEDE up to meet the challenge,” he said.

In tryouts, the coaches SWEAT SWEAT AND MORE SWEAT: Tabor and said they are looking for speed, Assistant Coach Kate Overhuel work toughness, and work ethic, but it was with sophomore Maria Tomlinson during stressed heavily, especially by McNeal, a preseason workout.

that the team needed skill level above all else.

“Basketball’s one of the few sports where you pre�y much have to do everything good,” McNeal said.

Things aren’t ge�ing prepped just on the court—the Portage Central hockey team has started conditioning also. “[Freshmen and sophomores] aren’t there for replacement. Their time is more for developing their skills. It’s the returning upperclassmen that have to replace [past seniors],” head coach Jim Murray said.

“I think we’ll be very competitive,” Murray said. “We have a strong nucleus of players returning. I expect us to be every bit as good as last year.”

As for tryouts, Murray said that the summer league basically stood as a year long tryout for the team—the coaches should know the players’ skill level by now. But if there are any surprises, Murray said that he’s looking for “good solid kids who’ll be a good solid future for us.”

With tryouts coming up in just a few short weeks, the countdown to the lights coming on in the gym or on the rink is soon to come.

NATE FRISBIE/STAMPEDE

men’s tennis Past: Tied for 11th place at state tournament Next: Season finished Key seniors: Bobby Phillips, Jeff Morgan, Alex Huang, Mier Wang, Kevin Zhang, Ryan Warner Head Coach: Peter Militzer

“

...Our team has improved immensely and we have worked hard throughout the year.

TYLER RICHMOND Freshman

NATE FRISBIE/STAMPEDE

men’s swim/dive Last year: Divisional Champions, 11th in state First meet: Cereal Bowl relays December 6 Players to watch: Ryan Umberger and Steve Zhang Head Coach: Jim Schafer

“

It’ll be a young group, but I think we will have a good rebuilding group of kids.

JIM SCHAFER Head Coach

“

THE HALLS:

“

DECK

Hacky Sack takes students by storm

BY JAMES PHILLIPS

“

Adding to the thousands of faces seen on the famous “wall of fame,” three teams will be given the opportunity to show off their pearly whites.

The women’s golf team as well as both the men’s and women’s cross country teams have succeeded in winning the necessary requirements to be put onto the wall.

“I think that this year I’m most happy to be on the wall,” senior captain Katie Martin said of the women’s cross country team, “because it’s the closest we’ve come to not being on the wall.”

Dan Wytko, coach of both the cross country teams, is personally a part of 18 pictures currently on the wall—not including the two that have yet to be put up for the successful 2008 season.

“It’s a goal for our teams every year to get their pictures on the wall,” Wytko said.

In regards to men’s cross country, it has been about 14 years since the team’s presence last graced the wall.

“I think the difference this year,” Wytko said of the men’s team, “is that they finally did their homework over the summer by running and really sticking to the plan.”

Having succeeded in the goal to beat their biggest rival Portage Northern this year, the team hopes to pose a threat to competitors next year.

“They hope to have people aiming at us next year,” Wytko said. “They want to be the team to beat.”

As for the reigning 2008 women’s golf team, the goal to be on the wall has been a long task to accomplish.

Past: Win over Mattawan on Oct. 21 (126-65) Next: Divisional preliminaries here on Nov. 7 Key Seniors: Grete Grubelich, Sam Cabala, Jaime Morton, Nicole Neff, Kayla Pedrolini, Melissa Raifsnider, Jaclyn Tobias Head Coach: Jim Shafer

NATE FRISBIE/STAMPEDE -Minis compiled by Katie Moffit and Laurel Bowersock -Current as of October 27, 2008