Vol 15 issue #6

central

Stampede vol 15 issue 6

50 cents

Mafia Wednesday... enough said p. 7

Prom got you worried? Knitting club takes Learn how to make off, attracts your mask on p.6

March 19, 2010

passioate knitters schoolwide

Curling Nationals slide into Kalamazoo’s Wings Stadium p.10

p.11

Scholarship founded in student’s memory Portage Education Foundation grant to benefit drama students

BY KAYLA McCARVER

Staff Writer

The Ami Elizabeth Bousfield Memorial Scholarship has been established by the Portage Education Foundation and the family of the former student, Ami Bousfield, in remembrance of her passion for theatre.

The scholarship offers $1,000 to a Central High senior who is planning to study theatre or musical theatre at a four-year university or college conservatory.

Bousfield was a former student who graduated in 2008. She had a strong passion for theatre and scored major roles in multiple school plays and musicals including “The Diary of Anne Frank,” “Miss Saigon”, “Thoroughly Modern Millie” and “Enter Laughing.” She also took roles outside of school, such as “Hair” at the Whole Arts Theatre.

“She started taking classes with Kathy Mulay and that is where things blossomed with theatre,” Dave Bousfield, Ami’s father, said. “She was really aglow when she was out performing.”

On June 28, 2008, mere months after being accepted into the musical theatre program at Western Michigan University, Bousfield unexpectedly died of a heroin overdose.

This tragic event shocked her family and friends as well as the community. This scholarship was established by her family in memory of Amy’s future goals in theatrics.

“Ami’s mother and I had spoken with Kathy [Mulay] about doing something,”

Bousfield said. “There were a number of donations that had been made by families.

We talked about purchasing a marquee for the theater or a kiosk for informative material on display when shows are running outside of the theater.

“None of these ideas seemed like a lasting memory. We thought that Ami had such a love for theatre, and that offering a scholarship in her memory would be a great way to memorialize her.”

“It’s really cool that this scholarship is honoring someone in the theatric arts,” senior Bethany Schmall said. “It’s an excellent idea to help keep her memory alive.”

The deadline for submission for the scholarship is April 9, and the scholarship funds will be paid directly to the college of the student’s choice.

Applicants must have a 3.0 GPA or higher and a 3.5 GPA in the fall semester of their senior year. Applicants must also send in their high school transcripts and submit a cover le�er explaining their future goals for theatre.

Applicants can mail everything to the Portage Education Foundation at P.O. Box 2043, Portage, MI 49081, or deliver materials to the Portage Public Schools Administration Building lobby at 8111 S. Westnedge Ave. “The main thing is to assist those who have an interest in theatre,” Bousfield said.

“Since Ami is not around to accomplish her goals, we would like to see a scholarship help assist someone else with the same passion for theatre.”

Ami Elizabeth Bousfield Memorial Scholarship Requirements: Plan on studying theatre GPA: A cumulative 3.0, with a 3.5 fall semester senior year Scholarship: $1,000

PHOTOS COURTESY STAMPEDE

OF

THE BOUSFIELDS/

Spanish trip to Peru is possibly no mas

BY AMY RUIMVELD

Staff Writer

In June 2011, Spanish teacher Lindsay Steenbergen hopes to take a group of students on an international trip to Peru, but concerns about international security are threatening the trip’s future.

“They’re concerned about safety of travel, because it’s always unfamiliar when you’re going to a foreign country,” Steenbergen said.

Superintendent Marsha Wells vocalized her support of the trip, but was concerned at first about the company, Interact.

“I wanted to make sure the company was reputable, especially since this is a new trip location,” Wells said.

Interact, the company that is coordinating the trip with Steenbergen, has also planned four trips to Mexico for Portage Central, and a trip to Costa Rica and to Spain for Portage Northern. Interact focuses on a cultural interaction, specifying in home-stays and volunteering.

When deciding the destination for this trip, Steenbergen decided to take the students to Peru because of the unique opportunities that otherwise wouldn’t be available to them.

“Not a lot of students would have the opportunity to go to Peru without the organization of a trip like this,” Steenbergen said. “Plus, I want them to be able to see Machu Picchu before it’s too late.”

Officials in Peru are expected to place restrictions on tourists to Machu Picchu, old Incan ruins, in order to preserve the ruins.

However, administrators were concerned about the weather in Peru, because during this wet season, heavy

KEENAN CRONYN/STAMPEDE

rains caused landslides, which damaged and flooded the railroad tracks to Machu Picchu.

Wells also agrees that this trip contains many lifechanging experiences, especially the tour to Machu Picchu, one of the world’s wonders.

“I’ve been on a trip like this myself…, this is going to

Herd P C in the Hallways “They came into my sixth hour and gave me a 2:50 slip with a giant picture of my car stapled to it.”

?Pop Quiz ? ?

Stampede

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

Where was the Spanish classes’ trip to last summer?

View.......................................4-5

a) Cancun

Focus....................................6-7

opinions and editorials

features and lifestyles

b) Costa Rica

Vibe........................................8-9

c) Cuba - Senior Abbe Adams on her parking troubles p.2

be an exceptional learning experience,” Wells said.

Assistant Principal Jason Frink, an expected chaperone on the trip, knows the benefits of international travel, especially for students of one of Michigan’s few IB schools.

“We try to include an international focus in our studies here, and I can’t think of a be�er way to encompass that,” Frink said.

If the trip to Peru isn’t approved by the Board of Education on April 19, Steenbergen still has other options.

This will most likely be a trip to Europe, since Mexico and Central America aren’t currently as safe as Spain, according to the State Department.

Since this is the first trip the Spanish classes have taken to South America, the questions asked are mainly concerns about the climate, the company and the country.

“The board always wants to know how many adults and kids are going, if they’re going to miss school and what the itinerary will be,” Assistant Superintendent Ric Perry said.

On Monday, Steenbergen is expected to present information about the trip to the Board of Education, then they will look over the material and are expected vote on April 19.

After her presentation, Steenbergen is hoping that the Board will feel more comfortable with student safety on the trip.

“I’m hoping to address many concerns about the homestays and company,” Steenbergen said. She continues to be optimistic about the trip, while understanding the significance of the precautions.

“I’m excited, but I realize the background work must be done before we step forward,” Steenbergen said.

entertainment and events

d) Dominican Republic For answer see briefs on p. 3

Sports..............................10-12 athletics and leisure

2

News

Stampede

page two

hallways and city streets

March 19, 2010

Student drivers invoke ‘right to petition’ Some say students should have access to handicap spots

BY TAYLOR FLECK

Staff Writer

On March 6, most students had a unique disruption to their sixth-hour classes: senior Abbe Adams, along with the rest of her business law classmates, could be seen walking classroom to classroom in groups with documents in hand.

These documents were, in fact, petitions. Greg Chambers’ business law students were trying to get as many signatures as possible to protest the school’s response to a tight parking situation.

On March 4, Adams received a 2:50 detention after she parked in one of the handicap spots in the senior lot between second and fifth hour.

“They came into my sixth hour and gave me a 2:50 slip with a giant picture of my car stapled to it,” Adams said.

“I was so mad.”

MUSIC MANIA

The controversy all started because the handicap parking spaces are only used for baseball and football seasons, which are currently not taking place.

“I think it’s not fair at all that seniors can’t park there when the handicap people don’t even use them during school hours, and we’re tight on spaces,” Adams said On the peition, students listed four reasons why their complaints should be taken seriously: insufficient space causing tardiness and stress, unfair punishment (the detention), students pay for spots that don’t exist, and the handicap spots aren’t legitimately marked. They hope the listed concerns and the signatures will shed light on the issue. Brian Horton, Chambers’ intern teacher this semester, is wholeheartedly supporting the students in their decision to petition.

“When they told me she got a 2:50 for parking in the senior lot, I didn’t think it was legit because as a senior, you have to park there,” Horton said. “I figured since this is a law class, the petition would be a great idea.”

Adams said that she and Principal Eric Alburtus met on March 11 — the day the 2:50 was scheduled on —to discuss the issue. “He was really nice about everything,” Adams said. “He liked the idea and the fact that a lot of good people signed it.”

Alburtus explained that even though he would revoke

AMBER LESTER/STAMPEDE

FIGHT FOR YOUR RIGHTS: From left, students Logan Templeton, Nick Sprau, Jacob Davis and Ryan Krietz read a student-generated petition before signing their names.

Adams’ detention if he could, there was a special education law in place which the school had to abide by.

Adams’ detention was reschedualed to March 15 and even though her petition won’t be going very far, she’s proud of what her law class accomplished and is glad Alburtus understood the issue.

“I went [to meet with Alburtus] to understand more about the issue,” Adams said. “He told me to have anyone who wants to talk about the issue to come on down to his office.”

Forensics takes the stage

BY OMO OGBOMO

Student musicians prepare for statewide competition

BY KYNA GARRETT

Staff Writer

On March 27, while many students will be in warmer weather, a small group of dedicated musicians will be performing at the State Solo and Ensemble competition.

Band and orchestra students are a part of a different organization than vocal students. The Michigan State Band and Orchestra Association (MSBOA) organizes the competition for band and orchestra students, while vocal students are a part of the Michigan School Vocal Music Association (MSVMA).

“The students who participate in solo and ensemble are very focused on what they are doing,” Silvia Sidorane, orchestra instructor, said.

Senior Greg Porter is part of a tuba trio that includes senior Regis Partee and freshman Joe LeFevre. The three students will be going to the State Solo and Ensemble competition at Holland West O�awa High School.

Porter was a member of a trio last year, which never went to the state competition.

He has be�er hopes this year, and is honored to be included in the group, he said.

“It is cool that [we] are pioneers of a new ensemble that is actually going to the State Solo and Ensemble competition,” Porter said in regard to this year’s tuba trio.

Partee rehearses three hours each day in order to achieve the highest score.

An ensemble typically consists of a brass quintet and a woodwind quintet. It is unusual that tuba trios play a part in high school ensembles, this year now being the second year a tuba trio is included.

“I hope that this will become a tradition that will last for a long time after I graduate,” Porter said.

A lot of dedication is drilled into the preparation these musicians must undergo before the competition. A piece for soloists or a group is chosen, fine-tuned and rehearsed a number of times until the piece is lively and brisk.

Being in an ensemble rather than playing a solo piece requires a different expertise, such as working together and playing one’s part while listening for others.

A solo involves a more individualized

JON ZOMER/STAMPEDE

TOOTIN’ HIS

OWN

HORN: Senior Regis Partee Whitson diligently practices his tuba.

Music

to our

31

Ears

Number of students participating in Saturday’s Solo and Ensemble Festival choir students

6

orchestra students

performance, as there is only one person who must capture the audience.

Violinist and senior Rachel Keck is also focusing on her skills and how she’s planning for the competition. Keck is having a fun time with the experience but said the preparation is difficult as it includes a number of site readings, rehearsing of scales and rehearsing with an accompanist.

With so much on these students’

Brief

16

band students

plates, sometimes it’s a difficult task to find time to rehearse and plan for the upcoming competition, they said.

“I guess the simple answer would be ‘If I want, I can do it,’” Sidorane said. “[The] mind is a very powerful tool and it can help us to accomplish a lot of things.”

Although it may seem so, it’s not all about the scoring, but having fun and achieving what each student has worked so diligently for.

Staff Writer

With the pop culture popularity of crime dramas like “CSI,” it’s easy to forget there’s another local form of forensics that doesn’t involve analyzing blood spa�ers.

Forensics is an umbrella term for several speaking events. The events are divided up into two categories: public address and interpretation. Public address events are sales speaking, oratory, impromptu and broadcasting. These are formal events and usually contain current events.

Interpretation caters to those that are more skilled in theater with events like dramatic interpretation, poetry, duo interpretation and storytelling, among others. Each team member prepares a piece that comes from a book, movie, play or their own creation.

Performances can be as short as five minutes or as long as 15, depending on the category. Each category comes with its own rules and requirements to ensure a good score. Including regulations on the use of props and costumes.

Junior Anica DeGraff, a participant in the musical, is also a member of the forensics team. “Forensics is much more relaxed than a show; you have the freedom to experiment and change up your piece for every competition,” said DeGraff, who was encouraged to join by others involved in forensics.

“My 8th-grade drama teacher actually told us about [forensics] and I decided to try it last year,” sophomore Mallory Duncan said.

“I think this is the biggest team we’ve had in the last five years,” said Theresa Mills, head forensics coach.

The team has had four competitions to date and is proving to be a talented group. At last weekend’s Grand Rapids Invitational, 20 of 29 entries broke into semifinal competition, and 13 moved into the finals. DeGraff earned 1st place in dramatic interpretation, and senior Katie Corbit brought home a 1st in poetry, among many other top-10 finishers.

The team competes against schools all over the state, including cross-town rival Portage Northern. DeGraff believes the rivalry isn’t limited to athletic fields.

“We do really well in events, and our competition is basically just Portage Northern,” DeGraff said.

The forensics team still has quite a few competitions left in their season, and Mills has one wish for the season’s remainder.

“I hope that we never sacrifice fun for winning,” Mills said. “Because if you’re not having any fun, it won’t ma�er where you place.”

Students receive short respite

Teacher Lindsay Steenbergen began raising money for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society (LLS), becoming involved in Team in Training. This program trains for marathons while raising money for the LLS. During February and March, various teachers participated in raising money for Pennies for Patients, a program associated with Team in Training. Together with donations from teachers and students, the school raised about $1,000.

Friday, April 16, marks the end of the third marking period, which means no school for students that day. All teachers must report for records day and professional development. There are no other scheduled breaks until Memorial Day on Monday, May 31.

Request forms available in April

Teacher requests

Girls ask the guys for the second annual Sadie Hawkins Dance! The dance is Saturday, from 8 to 11 p.m. with the same theme from last year: match bash.

The cost is $7, and it will be held in the school cafeteria.

Teachers support unique cause

End of quarter

Sadie Hawkins

Dance set for Saturday

Pennies for patients

in

Students can pick up teacher request forms for the 2010-2011 school year the first week after Spring Break. Each student can request only two teachers and forms are due to the guidance office at the end of April.

News

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Stampede

page three

hallways and city streets

March 19, 2010

Knit 1, Pearl 2

Students of Knitting Club find a crafty way to spend their time

BY CHRISTIANNA GLUYS

Editor In Chief

On any given occasion, hearing a high school student exclaim, “You have alpaca yarn?” would be unusual.

However, amongst the members of the kni�ing club, it’s part of everyday conversation, along with statements about “casting on” and remarks on someone’s new round needles.

The club was started by a sma�ering of students who took up kni�ing over the summer. Under advisor and history teacher Pat Johnson, the group has grown in popularity, acquiring several new members and now offers all students the opportunity to learn to knit.

“Kni�ing is really addicting,” junior Courtney Rehm said. “It’s so cool to be able to say ‘Hey, I made this,’ and have your own unique piece of work.”

Many of the students are only just beginning to knit, starting with basic scarves, but some are working toward more complicated projects such as socks, mi�ens and legwarmers.

“I’d eventually like to knit myself a hat,” junior Anna Gerechka said. “But right now all I have is half a scarf made.”

Sophomore Ashley Raedy joined the club having never knit before. “My friend pulled me in! I’d always wanted to learn how to knit, and I think I’m ge�ing the hang of it.”

Johnson spends her time with the club kni�ing her own projects—most recently, a pair of rainbow-colored socks— but is available to help when club members tangle yarn, drop a stitch or start a new piece.

“Kni�ing is a form of relaxation [for me],” Johnson said.

“It’s something productive to do when you’re just watching television, and gives anyone the chance to create something.”

“I feel like I can do something constructive in my free time,” junior Jeremy Kuo said.

While some members are learning to knit as a means of de-stressing, some are there to produce trendy, one-of-a-kind fashion pieces for themselves and their friends.

“It’s great to learn how to make things inexpensively,” Gerechka said. “You’re proud of your work, plus you can make presents for not much money.”

Kni�ing club has achieved some esteem amid the school’s many clubs, and expanding since its creation early in the year. Ever-growing, it offers students the opportunity to learn a neat new cra� and produce something for themselves.

ALL PHOTOS BY CHRISTIANNA GLUYS/STAMPEDE

olunteer Vof theMonth

STRENGTH IN NUMBERS: The club’s quick success has led to many students joining and taking part in the festivities. Johnson along students take time after school to create their own knitting creations. Students include juniors Jeremy Kuo, Courtney Rehm and Anna Gerechka and sophomore Ashley Raedy.

Freshman gives time to local elementary school

BY TAYLOR FLECK

Staff Writer

Freshman Cody Buyce hasn’t always been so proactive when it comes to volunteering, but just this past summer he put in over 50 hours at Haverhill Elementary’s summer fun camp.

Haverhill summer fun camp is constantly full of fun things to do for kids grades first through sixth all summer long.

Buyce volunteered at the day care from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. every Monday, Wednesday and Thursday and did a variety of things from helping out the main staff to making sure the kids had a good time.

“At first I just signed up to volunteer there because I knew I needed [community service] hours for school,” Buyce said. “But then I realized that I really liked working with the kids and I kept signing up for more and more hours.”

In addition to the summer camp, Buyce also spends two hours of his Sundays volunteering at Unity of Kalamazoo, a local church located on Whites Road.

His work usually consists of vacuuming carpets, washing dishes, helping to organize the office and mopping floors.

“It makes me feel really good to know I’m helping out people who need the help,” Buyce said. “The fact that they aren’t paying me anything makes me feel even be�er.”

Catherine Buyce, who along with being Buyce’s mother is his supervisor at Unity of Kalamazoo, is proud to see her son’s work.

“Cody is a very hard worker who has shown he truly cares about the community,” Buyce said. “His effort and dedication has shown the staff here at Unity that in the near future he would be a good employee.”

Along with keeping up the church work, Buyce plans to continue his work at the Haverhill summer camp this coming summer. Also, he plans to volunteer at the library for the children’s summer reading program.

“People didn’t really expect me to be the type of person to volunteer for some reason,” Buyce said. “But I really think people should give it a try because it makes you feel great.”

Brief

Cody Buyce

TAYLOR FLECK/STAMPEDE

...

give your time here

Haverhill Summer Fun Camp

• What: The Haverhill Elementary summer fun camp provides kids the chance to go to a summer camp close to home.

• When: Every weekday, June through August

• Why: Volunteer

counselors guide kids through crafts, games and special field trips

Take the vow of silence April 15

On Thursday, April 8, a Student Job Fair will take place in the school gymnasium and cafeteria. Several local employers will meet with and hire students from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Several opportunities will be restricted to 18 and older, but plenty of opportunities for 14- to 18-yearolds will be available.

The annual Day of Kindness celebration is scheduled for Friday, April 30. Activities for the day will include: bagels and ice cream offered at lunch, candy handed out at the end of the day, stickers handed out all day, car windows washed and compliment corners stationed around the school.

On Thursday, April 15, students will gather in a silent protest to anti-lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) harassment. Participants in the Day of Silence show their support for LGBT students by standing up and protecting those affected by prejudice as a result of their sexual orientation. T-shirt sales are currently going on for $10 each.

See Kate Hazen or Liz Minor for details and t-shirt information.

Innovative flight team

Students spread kindness April 30

Day of Silence

Employers seek out student workers

Day of Kindness

Job fair

in

Team finds success in February In February, the Innovative flight team competed in a competition in Hastings. The team competed in six events, and placed first in three: aerial ballet, team performance and the best overall team. Members Steve Wilcowski, Zack Digby-Junger, Caleb Padilla, Ryan Boekeloo and Maxim Aleksa will compete again in March.

-compiled by Staff PC Pop Quiz Answer: b) Costa Rica

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

March 19, 2010

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View

The power to choose: teacher requests

opinions and editorials

our

View

Memorial scholarship keeps Bousfield’s spirit alive Two years ago, tragedy hit Portage when 18-year-old Ami Bousfield died of a heroin overdose. Despite her absence, Bousfield’s passion for theater

Teacher requests can relieve classroom tension

Complications come with teacher requests

has not been forgo�en.

staff writer

view editor

Portage Education Foundation,

ALI FULLING

With the help of the Bousfield’s family has established the Ami Elizabeth Bousfield

RACHAEL LEFEVRE

Every student has had that teacher who isn’t fond of them.

Personalities clash and students and teachers spend a whole semester - or worse, a whole year - absolutely loathing each other.

It lessens the chance of both parties having a good high school experience.

A student shouldn’t be denied the right to swtich classes and never be stuck in that teacher’s room again. Or rather, no teacher should be faced with the possibility of having that student for one more year. This proves why teacher requests are beneficial to the entire school.

On the other side of the spectrum, we all have had teachers that we love, whose teaching style and curriculum fit our learning needs and help us to succeed. We should be able to pick and choose our teachers so that we can continue on the path of success.

Requesting teachers for next year also gives students the opportunity to be in classrooms with teachers they’re most comfortable with. By already having an established relationship, both the students and teacher can be more open and everyone can skip over the awkward first month where only three kids answer questions.

Teacher requests also lighten the load on guidance counselors at the beginning of the school year. With so many students with scheduling issues, a smaller number of teacher changes makes their job easier.

The school wants us to succeed, and I know I don’t get as much out of a class that I’m not comfortable in. Teacher requests give students the chance to make their learning experience the best that it can be. For our friends, we all choose the people that will help us be the greatest version of ourselves, so we should be able to do the same with the teachers who help shape our future.

It’s that time of year again; schedule forms flood the guidance office, and counselors si� through the piles of student class requests to try to fulfill every student’s desire. Besides the countless schedule request forms, counselors face yet another type of document to sort that can o�en cause even more chaos in the scheduling process: the teacher request form.

Students have the option to request specific teachers for the upcoming school year, and it is the counselors’ job to arrange schedules around these catered demands. However, teacher request forms only further burden counselors’ already busy scheduling process and cause unnecessary complications in the organization of classes.

Not only do teacher request forms exacerbate the scheduling process, they teach students to take “the easy way out.” Instead of accepting less-than-desirable teachers, students avoid the valuable lesson of learning to deal with what you receive. While they could decide to make the best of a “bad” teacher, students o�en resort to complaints and miss out on potentially interesting subject ma�er.

Furthermore, dealing with difficult teachers can serve as an important life lesson. One rarely chooses who he or she works with in the real world, and cooperating with stubborn teachers can be a crash course in teamwork. Through collaboration with unique people, one learns to accept others’ differences.

We’ll all meet many kinds of people in this world, and whether we like it or not, we will have to work with some of them at some point. Teaming up with unpleasant people can be a drag, but it allows one to build communication skills and gain the ability to cooperate with all sorts of people. It is generally impossible to control who one collaborates with in the workplace, and keeping it this way in schools provides valuable life experience for the average student.

Ali Fulling is a staff writer for the Central Stampede.

Rachael LeFevre is View Editor for the Central Stampede.

Memorial Scholarship which will provide $1000 in financial support to a student planning to study theater in college.

Bousfield’s family has used her death as a way to spread awareness about the importance of musical theater, hoping to inspire a passion for the arts among students. A scholarship in Bousfield’s name is the perfect way to keep her memory alive while encouraging students to follow their dreams.

Ami would be proud.

E The Sources...

V I F N O FIVE

The Questions...

Julia Baughman, 9th It’s a good idea, and What do you think she can still help out of the Ami Bousfield a lot of people even scholarship? though she’s gone.

Yes, it’s a good Should high experience. schoolers have more field trips? Why?

Dontrell Morris, 10th Jami Morrissey, 11th Even though she’s gone, I think it’s cool but it doesn’t help me. she’s still doing something positive.

Justin Rey, 12th That’s good to help [students] pay for their college.

Mrs. Morrissey It’s awesome that [her parents] are honoring their daughter by offering this.

Yes, I want to go to Sea It’s good to get a No, they take you from If it isn’t educational, different learning everyday learning. They then we shouldn’t. We World. I missed the need to be ready for a polar bear section. experience somewhere should do after-school [trips]. more boring job. else.

If it’s what they want to It would be good if they I think that’s sweet! I I think it’s cool that they It’s a great idea that What do you think do, then let them do it. had adult approval they are showing wish I could make my about students mak- are so creative. upon completion of their own clothes. I can’t sew. creativity. ing their own clothes? clothing.

Go all the way. They I think they will do They will do excellent. I think they will still do How do you think the I think we’ll do well. are going to the top. great. They are spitwell. They didn’t lose I hope they will be women’s soccer team Central has a lot of potential. fires. many players. ranked #1, not #3. will do this year?

1 2 3 4 5

How do you save money on lunch?

I watch what I buy and don’t over-spend.

I go to friends’ houses and eat less. I know the fast food dollar menus really well.

I’ll eat at school instead I don’t order pop. Pop is ridiculous. of leaving.

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.

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.

I buy different varieties of foods and see which is best for me at a low price.

Stampede Staff Keenan Cronyn and Christianna Gluys Editors-in-Chief Nathan Ranns.......News Editor Assistant Editors/Staff Writers: Rachael LeFevre....View Editor Sarah Erdman......Focus Editor Marissa Miars........Vibe Editor Alex McCarthy.....Sports Editor Jon Zomer............Photo Editor

Zack Anderson, Matthew Brandt, Shannon Cleveland, Morgan Clothier, Taylor Fleck, Ali Fulling, Kyna Garrett, James Ketelaar, Amber Lester, Sarah Manis, Kevin Martin, Kayla McCarver, Lauren Moon, Carly Nagengast, Omo Ogbomo, Emma Page, Amy Ruimveld, Emily Santini, Hannah Seelman, Megan Scott, Tucker Webb, Chloe Westley.

Artists: James Ketelaar Business Manager: Holly Evey Adviser: Cheryl Braford

Office: (269) 323-5218 Fax: (269) 323-5290 Room 306 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 achieve a balance between informing and entertaining our readers.

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 Central Stampede 8135 South Westnedge Ave. Portage, MI 49002

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Stampede

page five

opinions and editorials

Groundhog predicts correctly editor-inchief

KEENAN CRONYN

It seems like the notoriety of Groundhog’s Day plagues the first week of February each year. Living in Michigan for most of my life, it’s a particular day of infamy.

Each and every year the groundhog crawls out of its hole to forecast when spring will arrive, and 99 times out of 100 the groundhog is wrong. However, this year is an exception.

I have to admit this is my second time writing this article. I originally wrote it bashing the groundhog and all of the goofy men that crowd around it each year.

Honestly, can you blame me? Winter in Michigan is

Stay safe on spring break staff writer

LAUREN MOON

With spring break a week away, I cannot think of anyone who does not have any sort of plan, whether they are traveling for a week or sleeping for a week.

Students who are fortunate enough to be traveling over break will undoubtedly have a great time. However, while taking a vacation of a lifetime, students need to be safe and act responsibly while traveling. There are ways to enjoy yourself over spring break and still have a memorable time.

1

Do not post you are going away on Facebook or Twi�er. This is a sign showing that your house is empty, with plenty of nice items to steal. We all remember what Macaulay Culkin went through when Joe Pesci and Daniel Stern tried to rob his house.

Do not make your li�le brother go through that same terror.

2

Do not broadcast that you are from out of town.

This shows that you do not know exactly where you are. It can also show that you are young and naive and can easily be taken advantage of. Along these same lines, do not trust any random bystander on the street. If you need assistance, ask a police officer or a public worker.

a never-ending affair that usually leaves my shoes muddy and disgusting and my a�itude as gloomy as the weather.

It seems like each year I get ahead of myself and become really excited for winter to be over. But I believe that this year with our recent streak of gorgeous weather, I’m going to have to admit that the groundhog has finally predicted correctly.

I’m not really the kind of person who likes being wrong, but in this case I’m going to pretend I’m okay with it.

This year in Michigan, Bucky, our state groundhog, predicted that we would be in for another six weeks of winter weather on Feb. 2. This means that on March 15 (4 days ago), we would shed our winter clothes and run around in shorts.

For the most part, Bucky called it, and we’re actually almost in the full swing of spring. Even though some students are sporting shorts (too eagerly, I might add), I am not 100% sure we’re in the clear.

It wouldn’t be a miracle if we saw snow before the end of April, or maybe just a couple flurries in the next few weeks. Either way, I have to give it up to the groundhog, who is right for the first time in what feels like my whole life.

In all fairness, he was a li�le late, but in the situation of deciding whether spring will come sooner or later, I’d rather it be sooner. But just for the record, he kind of goofed.

KAYLA MCCARVER/STAMPEDE

Keenan Cronyn is Editor-in-Chief for the Central Stampede.

3

The buddy system actually works. Even if your buddy is your best friend or your mother, having someone with you at all times can help assure nothing dangerous or unexpected to happen.

However, just because you have a buddy does not mean you are 100 percent safe; always be aware of your surroundings.

4

Know the area you are visiting. With a week before you leave, it can be helpful to buy or print a map of where you are going. Knowing major streets and where your hotel is located will ease stress and allow you to feel more comfortable in your surroundings. Picking a location to meet if you are separated from your group is never a bad idea.

Choose a new spot each day depending on where you are traveling for the day.

5

Start packing now. If you begin your packing now, you will be assured that you will not forget anything at home. Lay your clothes out in another room for a few days before you leave so you can look over your selections a few times. Also, if you are flying with family or friends, you might consider packing your clothes together. Mix your clothes between two or three suitcases. This way, if you lose a suitcase during your flight, you will still have most of your clothes with you.

6

Wear sensible shoes. No one wants to come back from break sore because of a poor shoe decision.

Wearing flip-flops to the beach for a day is fine, but make sure to pack shoes with proper arch support to wear throughout the week.

Spring break can be a great vacation for you and your friends, but remember to be safe while you’re enjoying yourself. Make memories that you will want to share with your friends forever.

Lauren Moon is a staff writer for the Central Stampede.

‘Darn you, kids!’

Student channels Andy Rooney’s anti-tech vibe staff writer

TUCKER WEBB

I have problems with today’s world. Not depressing “I-hate-my-life” problems, but crotchety, old man “what-is-wrong-with-these-whippersnappers?” problems. For some reason, popular trends have gone over my head, leaving me feeling ancient and addlepated.

If you’ve ever watched CBS’s “60 Minutes” all the way through to the end, you will know what I mean when I say I feel like Andy Rooney.

Andy Rooney, for those of you not familiar with his ways, is the pessimistic curmudgeon who ends the TV news magazine each Sunday night. Andy would be right on board with my biggest complaint with today’s world: texting. Texting confounds me. You are using a cell phone while texting. Why not just call the person to whom you are sending your bizarre message of text jargon? It’s called a cellular PHONE, not a cellular texting device. Kids my age all think texting is probably man’s greatest invention since Chia Pets. What is so great about it? That you can do it during class? Because you can do it while driving? Hate to sink your ba�leship, but you should probably be paying a�ention in class, and texting while driving is just flat-out irresponsible. I’m right there with you, Oprah Winfrey!

And what about this “Twi�er” thing? Why Why not just would you call the person want to minimize to whom you are what you sending your intend to say to 140 bizarre message of characters or less? Are text jargon? It’s people losing called a cellular the ability to read PHONE... something for more than five seconds?

Does everything have to be minimized to fourth-grade levels for comprehension? And why would I care what anyone is doing every second of the day? I find it slightly creepy that random people on the interwebs would have access to that much personal information.

Facebook. Now what is a “face book,” literally?

Why would I want to go to a website with such an asinine name? At least Myspace’s name is vaguely sensible. Websites like Facebook are called, for some reason unbeknownst to me, “social networking websites.” Typing words at everyone is not “social!” For all you know, the person you’re talking to is a robot. Social, to me, is real human interaction: a handshake, eye contact and a conversation using spoken words. No “OMG RLY?!” or “EPIC LULZ.” Just a friendly conversation with another normal human being.

Like Andy Rooney, there are a whole plethora of things that make me kick into crotchety-old-man mode, far too many to count. The thought that keeps me sane is that when these things appear on the impending “I Love the 00’s,” I will be able to say, “I told you so.”

“

“

Phil finally gets it right

March 19, 2010

Tucker Webb is a staff writer for the Central Stampede.

KEVIN KEY/STAMPEDE

Rap: ‘a vegetable’ in the modern music industry Dear Stampede, Your article on rap (“Has modern rap music lost its original message?”, Feb. 25) was very down-to-earth and true. However, you failed to mention the entire origins of rap. Lyricists like Tupac Shakur and Biggy Smalls weren’t the first rappers. Rappers like Busy B, Supa Flex, even Grand Master Flash, all started doing what rappers today are doing. They made endless strings of club bongers until they made a hit. The only difference now is that people “buy” the crap that artists put out. Kumoe D is in fact “the” Lyrical MC. He started lyricism. I’m not saying that Tupac and Biggy were bad - just merely that they didn’t start a movement. And real rap isn’t about how hard your life is. If you want to hear that, listen to blues. But real rap – no rap isn’t a good term here – real hip-hop was about

doing something you love and pu�ing your own spin on it. Artists like Soulja Boy and Jamie Fox aren’t bad because they don’t rap lyrically like the artists of the past. They’re bad because you don’t appreciate them for what they are – club artists. They are designed to get a party going, not to stimulate your brain.

On the flip side, Lil’ Wayne is considered a lyricist.

This is u�er stupidity. Not only are his tracks incoherent, but his lyrics are all about the same thing. Also, Lil’ Wayne has yet (in the new era of hip-hop) to make his own beats.

All of his “beats” are snatched and sampled from someone else. Back in the day rappers and DJ’s had one purpose: make a beat to make a hit. That’s it. And I think most current rappers are losing that focus and sense of identity.

Rappers used to be defined as lyricists, club rappers, and garbage. Now everyone who can download frooty loops and read a Dr. Seuss book is a rapper. Rap isn’t dead yet, but it is a vegetable. Until people wake up and stop buying the crap, this series of fools will never end. Rappers like Lupe Fiasco, Common, Drake, Tyga, and Kanye West

don’t consistently make it to the top of the charts. Drake and Kanye do because they were initially associated with bad or already famous rappers such as Lil’ Wayne and the group N.E.R.D. These rappers have some of the most killer tracks of our time but you never hear them on the radio.

So the message of this le�er is that rap isn’t rap; it’s hip-hop. And hip-hop is in a coma and fading fast.

We are the only ones who can save it. So step up and tell the bad artists to make good records. Or stop complaining about it.

Sincerely,

Derek Evan Lanier

6

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page six March 19, 2010

Focus features and lifestyles

Make your own

Mask-erade

Stores and websites offer materials for students to create masks for prom

BY SARAH ERDMAN

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offer the necessary materials. Additionally, costume stores, party stores and numerous websites offer masks for sale or rent.

Some examples of these are Roe Costume Shop, Timid Rabbit Magic-Masquerade, Dresses, tuxes, corsages…all typical prom items sure to be shown KD Sales, and The Party Store. off at this year’s prom. However, there’s a new addition to the Mask-erade Shopping However, the prom commi�ee wants to stress the difference prom scene this year: masks. between the masquerade theme and Mardi Gras.

1. “Roe Costume Shop” “We wanted to have something different “The masks should have more rich king and queen 119 East Dutton Street outside of the regular realm of ideas,” junior colors,” Brown said. “This is more of a classy affair.”

Kalamazoo, MI 49007-5266 Evan Adams, member of the prom commi�ee, But, the addition of masks isn’t the only change. said. “We also like the theme because of the (269) 342-0482 Prom will also be ending thirty minutes earlier than connection to the State Theater. It resembles the 2. “Timid Rabbit normal, so the dance will end at 11:30 p.m. theater a lot with the old artwork.”

“We’re ending the dance early partly because we want Magic-Masquerade” In accordance with the theme, the prom to get everyone off the streets at a certain time and for the 2011 West Main Street commi�ee is hoping that students will take initiative students who have a curfew of midnight,” Brown said.

Kalamazoo, MI 49006-3086 to make their own mask or purchase one for the dance.

Nevertheless, all of the changes are only to be�er the “We encourage students to bring their own mask,” (269) 343-7777 prom experience. prom commi�ee advisor Sarah Brown said. “We will 3. “KD Sales” “We just want to have some originality with this year’s have a ‘Make-A-Mask’ station set up at prom from 8 prom and have some fun with it,” Adams said.

2044 South Burdick Street p.m. to 9:30 p.m., but we’ll probably only have enough to Kalamazoo, MI 49001-3662 make 30 masks.”

For those students interested in supplies for making (269) 344-2999 masks, Hobby Lobby and Michaels are two stores which

Focus Editor

Tearing up Portage Portage, Michigan could be the new hot spot for spring break

EMMA PAGE/STAMPEDE

FUN

IN THE

SUN: Senior Zack Anderson prepares for spending his spring break at home.

Off the Radar Random Thoughts from

ZACK ANDERSON When looking for one of the ho�est spots to travel to for this monumental “Senior’s Last Hurrah” spring break trip, we were hard pressed to find a more revered spot for its fun times and familiar atmosphere than right here in the 269: Portage, Michigan.

Spending time here in Portage over spring break is an acquired taste that is not enjoyed by most of us. We get more envious than excited during the weeks leading up to our vacation because we are going to have to put up with the cold weather and the endless chores, but this year I am kicking the trend.

The perks of being one of the only seniors to not be going to Mexico for the epic senior trip are plentiful. Tearing up Portage has never been more realistic than during the week in which I will be the only person under 21 left.

With the amazing Ri�er’s Frozen Custard just recently re-opening up for the season, I will finally have the opportunity to consume as much custard as possible. What be�er way to spend a day than eating as much ice cream as possible without having anyone there to judge you? It has been a dream of mine for years that I will finally be able to scratch off of my bucket list.

To add to this, how many times have you passed by the Portage Public Library and not thought to yourself: “I really want to dig up a grave?”

With most of the city taking off to Mexico, it will give me the opportunity to practice my digging skills out at the graveyard. There is nothing like reading a good book out at the library and on your down time, digging up Jason Voorhees just to see if he really is down there. Or if all else fails, dig to China.

Turning Portage into one of the most bomb diggity places from one of the lamest cities is as easy as pizza pie. A Jet’s Pizza Pie. Jet’s Pizza, which serves the greatest pizza on the planet, will be delivering me pizza every hour, on the hour, for every single vacation day. That is the type of food that is bad for your stomach but great for your soul.

With all of my peers going to Mexico to become cultured, I will have to extend my pallet of friends out to my senior friends out at the Wynwood Senior Center on Old Centre.

What be�er way to spend my vacation than hanging out with my senior buddies, playing bingo and eating a BBQ Chicken Pizza until their bedtime at four in the afternoon?

Portage, Michigan hasn’t caught the a�ention of the thrill seekers nationwide quite yet, but the news is buzzing about this hot retreat. The mindset of anyone given the opportunity to relax here for a week is that of adventure and excitement.

Everyone going to Mexico, I am sorry.

Click and Shop

Online shopping offers variety, simplicity

BY JAMES KETELAAR

Staff Writer

Stop what you’re doing for a minute.

Take a glance down at your chest. What’s on your T-shirt? Odds are it’s something fairly basic: some solid color, or a pa�erned take like stripes. It used to be that those of us who could afford it wore shirts emblazoned with our favorite local clothes emporium, usually one of the many located in the mall: the Hollisters, the Abercrombies, and the American Eagles. But lately, it seems, a new venue is pushing in on their territory, where overpriced shirts that make wearers a walking commercial are nowhere to be found.

Rather, one can find shirts that are actually clever, take thought, and make anyone who sees them say, “That’s awesome.”

Of course, these shirts aren’t anywhere in the mall. They aren’t carried at the local Pac-Sun. No, they come from a far more magical place: the Internet. Web sites like h�p://www.Threadless.com and h�p:// www.ThinkGeek.com are on the rise lately. The intricate artwork and beauty of Threadless T-shirts are popular, and a kid with the blue Science/Medical Officer Star Trek tunic is revered for his ThinkGeek shopping.

Sophomore Ian Atkinson boasts a shirt from ThinkGeek depicting the Pac-Man ghosts being chased by the

Ghostbusters car.

“I buy shirts from ThinkGeek because ThinkGeek is awesome,” said Atkinson. “I think it’s the best Internet shop ever.”

Atkinson owns several T-shirts from ThinkGeek, and is already considering another one.

“I really want to get the one that says, ‘Think Globally: Act Within Local Variable Scope,’” he said.

In addition to their apparent awesomeness, these Internet Web sites seem to be quite a bit cheaper. Threadless frequently sells its shirts for less than $15 going all the way down to $9 in some instances, while many of Hollister’s tees exceed $25.

But what’s propelling these sites to popularity?

For one, every design is so strictly different, if everyone got their clothes from the Web site no one could ever tell. Threadless has well over 300 different designs, made by tons of different artists, and no two ever really look alike.

Threadless and ThinkGeek give people the ability to distinguish themselves from the crowd, and their growing popularity can be a�ributed to that.

Web sites like these, which sell unique pieces for average consumers, are important to those who value being individual and are sick of being described and defined by where their clothes are bought.

JAMES KETELAAR/STAMPEDE

Focus

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features and lifestyles

March 19, 2010

Spend dollars; make sense Hidden restaurant deals help students

BY CHLOE WESTLEY

JON ZOMER/STAMPEDE

WITHOUT BREAKING

THE

BANK: Senior Brendan Wass uses

change to pay for his lunch.

Staff Writer

By knowing a few Portage secrets, a dollar at lunch can go a very long way. For instance, one can buy a footlong sub sandwich at Subway. Brown bagging it may never be necessary again, even with the amount of dollars in wallets dropping.

“I’m tired of having to starve myself until dinner because I don’t have cash for a decent lunch,” senior Taylor Sampson said.

While numerous students dash to the Subway on Lovers Lane due to its close proximity, many forget about the hidden Subway in Walmart, just a few more minutes away.

Not only do they offer student discounts, but they offer a new sale on each trip with their punch card. For example, on their first trip, a student can get a free cookie without a single purchase or a 59-cent six-inch sub, which includes a pop on the second trip.

Once “Subwayed” out, it is time to try Burger King instead of the always stuffed McDonald’s that students questioningly enjoy more.

By showing the school’s sports pass, Burger King will fill you with their “buy one, get one free” sale on any sandwich of equal or lesser value. If you never purchased the sports pass, the same discount is offered by looking up the promotion code on the Internet from the back of the receipt.

On behalf of all “Micky D” fans, if the value menu is still too expensive, each Friday, McDonald’s offers a free “sample” during lunch hours. While being filled up can not be expected, mooching four quarters for something extra to add to the meal won’t be too difficult. The large majority of students do not see emptying out the piggy bank as a problem.

“Paying with all change is not an abnormal thing at McDonald’s,” junior Katie Harman said.

For a ridiculously cheap meal, Sam’s Club offers a small variety of quick meal choices for prices considered to be pocket change.

The concession stand located to the far left front corner includes pizza, hotdogs, pre�els and slushies. A Sam’s Club membership is not even required as long as purchases consist of only concession stand items.

With gas prices reaching $2.75 lately, walking to lunch can save enough money to afford the more expensive choices of Franco’s or Great Harvest Bread Co. that are conveniently located within walking distance of the school.

Taco Bob’s, the classic Central tradition, deserves its popularity for saving both gas and meal expenses.

With insider tips about Portage’s lunch scene, the smart student can manage their money well.

Seniors bring ‘class’ back to crime

BY SHANNON CLEVELAND Staff Writer If you’ve ever wanted to be a part of the Mafia, you now have the opportunity to join the “Family” here.

What started out as a dress up day for Winter Homecoming became a weekly event created by a group of senior friends, also known as the “Leaders”: Brendan Wass, Anthony Krenselewski, Hannah AlKharusy, Ryan Smith and Evan Quiñones.

The original five have also created a special kind of relationship with the owner of Franco’s Sub Station, which is where their lunch usually takes place every Wednesday.

“We go to Franco’s on Wednesdays because they’re Italian so we consider them a part of the ‘Family,’” Al-Kharusy said.

“We consider Franco to be the ‘Godfather.’”

The group became close enough to Franco that he even took pictures.

“We are the Visconti family and we all take different names,” Smith said.

Becoming a part of the family is easy; all you have to do is dress up like one of the mobsters and be approved by one of the original five leaders. Apparel includes black suits, fedoras, black tights (for the girls, of course) and black shirts and/or vests.

However, as with most “families,”there are some ground rules.

If you want to leave the group, you may meet some resistance.

“Once you’re out, you can’t come back!” Al-Kharusy said.

The biggest rule of them all is, for obvious reasons, to dress up every Wednesday, just as the rest of the “family.”

MAFIA MANIA:

Ryan Smith, Evan Quinoñes and Anthony Krenselewski show off their Mafia attire.

AMBER LESTER/STAMPEDE

I’ve Got Your Back

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Facebook Froyo A-day Giveaway Become a fan of us on Facebook and you could recieve a free cup of frozen yogurt!

You could be next, fan White Velvet today! delicious * zingy * sweet * tangy white velvet frozen yogurt-anything but ordinary

The next issue of the Central Stampede:

April 30th, 2010

8

Vibe

Stampede

page eight

features and lifestyles

March 19, 2010

Quick Hits Music

Broken Bells March 6th Broken Bells

99%

Late last year at an a�er party, James Mercer, the lead singer from The Shins, and Danger Mouse, a Grammy-Award-Winning rap producer, hit it off immediately. The two of them had just finished their recent projects, and Mercer, bored and looking for a way to “show more of himself” in his music, immediately made a proposition to Danger Mouse.

12 months a�er the fact we have the finished project of the duo, their selftitled album “Broken Bells”. The result is a gorgeous balance of Mercer’s guitar and vocals and Danger Mouse’s complex and upbeat keyboards and sequencing. The mix of genres is similar to The Black Keys album “A�ack and Release”, but has a much more prevalent presence of Danger Mouse. All in all, the 10 tracks are all spot on. With plenty of contrast and an unlikely duo, Broken Bells is the first 2010 album truly deserving of a nomination for ‘Album of the Year’.

-Keenan Cronyn

All Caps March 28 BMin/E

92%

This is the second album from YouTubefamous duo Luke Conrad and Kristina Horner, whose first work together was done entirely via email. Their first real-life collaboration is just as heartfelt and charming as before, punctuated by nerdy love songs and silly speaking interludes.

The album’s robot theme is referenced in the title, and is reinforced in both the song lyrics and the combination of heavy bass and surging synthesizer melodies. Though Horner’s vocals can be distorted and pitchy at times, the sweet electronic sound of the entire album is certainly enjoyable for fans of Owl City, Ben Folds or Motion City Soundtrack.

-Christianna Gluys

THROUGH THE RABBIT H LE With a hot new addition to the “Alice in Wonderland” franchise in theaters, it’s time for the Stampede to turn its eyes on past editions of this famous storyline. Many movies have tried for greatness with Lewis Carroll’s classic fable. Some have succeeded while many have fallen flat on their faces. Here’s The first worthwhile “Alice a look back through history at what in Wonderland” cinematic experience since worked – and what didn’t – in the initial 1903 silent film was the famous Disney animated these editions of a tale as version. Not the only animated version of the beloved Carroll tale old as time. by far, but certainly the best, Disney continues its tradition of animated classics with “Alice” by not only breaking boundaries but se�ing standards and establishing motifs and mannerisms for many future “Alice” films (for example, the costume design for the caterpillar character in the notably popular 1985 made-for-TV “Alice in Wonderland” film is almost spot-on identical to the animated version of the character in Disney’s ’51 version).

1951

The movie itself is quite a formidable work, fully utilizing the capabilities of animation in a time when liveaction film effects would have been anything but impressive. The plot moves swi�ly and cleverly enough to maintain the audience’s interest (which is so o�en an issue specifically in the beginning of “Alice in Wonderland” plots that it’s almost tradition) and upholds the proper chaos of the storyline where appropriate. Altogether, it’s solid work with solid voice acting and solid A direction - surely a work which will be around for even more decades to good handful come. Our chronologically-next film contender doesn’t have of “Alice” adaptations such a bright outlook. were a�empted between 1951 and 1985, the release year for the next noteworthy version – some foreign, some musical, and one even pornographic. However, where the ’85 made-for-TV film had the opportunity to seem like a ray of light piercing some murky a�empts on the franchise, it failed to really come through, instead falling short and ge�ing caught up in the thirty-year gap of disappointment.

1983

The ’85 “Alice in Wonderland” TV movie is much too long and much too dull. Though some costume and otherwise movie effects in the adaptation were admi�edly somewhat impressive for the times, they inextricably date the entire work. The writing has such a talent for repetitively stating the obvious that at one point it almost becomes more a�ractive a prospect to gouge one’s own eardrums out instead of listening to more of its tripe. The clear focal point of the cast is the child star playing Alice, but she actually doesn’t drag down the film terribly, despite the unfortunate fact that the majority of her lines are prime examples of bad writing or bad delivery in the The next big movie version of “Alice in film. In total, it’s not a recommendable experience but could Wonderland” to hit mainstream media provide some amusing background noise and was another made-for-TV movie, this one released music (yes, there are musical numbers) in 1999. This one, however, is a dramatic improvement in the for busy work time. genre of “Alive” TV movies from 1985. Not only is the casting remarkably decent but the direction and special effects are more cohesive with post-millennium culture than the late-‘90s. However, it does have several moments of being almost identical to the Disney animated adaptation, shot-for-shot. Despite, this, though, it proves to be quite a fun watch and certainly worth the time investment (if nothing else, just to see Deb from “Napoleon Dynamite” run around as fourteen-year-old Alice).

1999

2010

Being the most modern and the latest in a long line of “Alice” movies, the new 2010 version had a lot to live up to - especially because it is the first big-name movie to a�empt a sequel to the traditional storyline.

While admi�edly not earth-shaking, the fresh “Alice” film follows through with all its promises and brings some truly admirable qualities to the franchise table. Pre-release, there was concern that with an all-star cast there was danger of the film coasting simply on names and failing to deliver noteworthy performances. On the contrary, nearly every single member of the cast brings their best to the table. The sequel’s plot differs from that of former Alice’s, featuring a prophetic scroll foretelling a ra�y-haired Alice single-handedly slaying a Disney’s-Fantasia-caliber beast, but magically manages to hold itself together (so well, in fact, that the crazier the plot swerves, the be�er the film gets, in true Alice in Wonderland fashion). There are a few moments, especially near the beginning, where there are a few questionable (but not necessarily bad) choices made in the direction and/or writing which drags down the speed of the plot, but they prove to be brief and negligible in the grand scheme of the movie. On the whole, the 2010 “Alice in Wonderland” is a film that is definitely worth the inflated price of a 3D-movie ticket.

STORY BY CARLY NAGENGAST/STAMPEDE

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Vibe

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entertainment and events

DVD Release...

Oscar Follow-up

Up in the Air March 9 6 Oscar Nominations Women across America are falling in love with George Clooney (again) in his latest DVD release “Up in the Air”.

Terrific acting was seen from Clooney, costar Vera Farmiga and newcomer Anna Kendrick. “Up in the Air” successfully blends comedy, romance and drama together to produce an outstanding movie worthy of it’s five Oscar nominations. However, “Up in the Air” is targeted for middle-aged women who need a good laugh. The only thing young moviegoers can take away from this is to never start or end anything via text message, because, apparently, people above the age of 12 still do that.

-Lauren Moon

Precious March 9 4 Oscar Nominations, 2 Wins “Precious,” the riveting story of a Harlem teen raped by her father and abused by her mother, is a moving and emotionally shocking film.

Nominated for Best Picture at the 2010 Oscars, it is exceptionally directed and possesses powerful performances.

Best Supporting Actress winner Mo’Nique delivers the performance of her career, portraying Precious’ abusive mother. Precious features a perfect mix of gri�y, depressing visuals to depict the main character’s struggles and shining delusions of what she strives to become. As Precious tries to find herself, defeat illiteracy and raise her children, be prepared for an emotional film that is certainly worth a purchase.

-Nathan Ranns

March. 19 , 2010

‘Of Mice and Men’ comes together

With numerous problems in their way, cast finds way to make it work

JON ZOMER/STAMPEDE

MAKING

BY MATT BRANDT

Staff Writer

A SCENE: Senior Chase Maser and sophomore Grant Walters practice a scene from “Of Mice and Men.”

yearning for a�ention Curley’s wife.

“It’s cool [being the only girl on cast],” Harris said. “I usually According to Robert Burns, the best laid plans o’ mice end up being the bu� of many jokes, and it doesn’t help that my character is and men, o�en go awry. This is definitely not the case for not the classiest.”

Portage Central’s production of Of Mice and Men, directed One of Steinbeck’s major themes in his book is the companionships

by Kathy Mulay. This production, based on the book by with others. Harris’s character plays a great role John Steinbeck, is a classic tale of two men with a in this aspect. dream.

“I call [Curley’s wife] a troubled soul,” “It’s a show I’ve always Harris said. “She has been through a lot in life wanted to do,” Mulay said. “I and is just recently married. She finds herself wanted to do a classic, and, lonely and tries to get a�ention through flirting. additionally, I wanted it to be Her role is important to the theme, so the something that everyone would r e pressure is to depict her correctly.” s recognize.”

Chase Ma .

Another pressure put on not only Harris, The play is essentially, John George . nt Walters a r but everyone involved, is that this year, the G .

Steinbeck’s novel, right down k Lennie . play will be at West Middle school.

Ryan Quic to the dialogue. As part of the . . n “It’s just so hard, because we have y o Cand regular English curriculum for Jacob Aft . to haul everything,” Mulay said. “And . freshmen, many will remember The Boss s Ketelaar e everything is sca�ered to the wind. m a J . the book’s ten characters that have is Everything that we have on campus is hard Curley .

Zada Harr been expertly cast from Portage . e if W to get to. It’s either in a construction zone, or ’s t y r e Curle Central students.

Tyler Robb . it’s in the administration building, or it’s at “I thought [the book] was ’Grady Slim .

O s e Waylee, and that makes it difficult.” m a J . pre�y interesting,” said freshman on ala ls b r a Aside from the fact that the moving a C C x le A Alyssa Burd. “It had a lot of good . process is difficult and tedious, the stage . r Whit detail and I understood it really Evan Lanie at West is also significantly smaller than . well.”

Crooks Central’s auditorium. This aspect might The relatively short story wri�en seem like a problem to some, but not to the

by Steinbeck is perfect for the transfer cast. from the wri�en page to the stage.

“The West Middle School stage is smaller, Freshman English teacher Barbara which is almost an advantage, because of the production,” Mulay said.

Barry agrees.

“There’s just something about that li�le theater that will make it much more “I think a play from Of Mice And Men could be intimate than our big auditorium.” done with amazing accuracy because Steinbeck sets up Regardless of the small stage, Of Mice and Men comes out April 9. every scene at the beginning of every chapter,” Barry said.

Students should enjoy the plot and characters and recognize the struggles in “Also, the book is short enough and the plot moves quickly the play. enough, that I think it could be done on stage.”

“I’m thinking of going to see it,” Burd said. “It looks great.”

Most people will recognize the actors in the play, but the interesting twist is there is only one female member in the cast. Zada Harris plays the overly-sociable and

d Of Mice an

Men

Cast

Prom 2010 April 24, 2010 •

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Make April 24th a night you’ll never forget.

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Call now to make an aapointment!

All three at Studio 24 for $95 Join your friends at Salon of the Year!

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STAMPEDE next issue out Friday, April 30

(269) 345-0866 1413 E. Milham Portage, MI 49002 www.mystudio24.com

10

Stampede

page ten

Sports athletics and leisure

March 19, 2010

Women’s lacrosse becomes school sport

BY AMY RUIMVELD

Staff Writer

Moving up from a club sport with two varsity level teams, Portage Women’s Lacrosse is now recognized as a school sport, with girls from both Northern and Central.

This combination of schools and skills is hoped to lead the teams to victory this year, because this is their first year being a school sanctioned sport.

“This season will be a be�er year because we’ll feel like we’re a part of our school,” senior Jessica Pollins said.

Another teammate shared this feeling.

“We’ll be playing harder teams, so we’ll have our work cut out for us,” senior Julia Miller said. “But it’ll be nice to get more recognition.”

And since the teams are officially supported by the schools, the jersey colors must represent each school, changing the jersey colors from lime green and navy to orange and navy.

“They’re not my favorite, but we need to integrate the teams and schools,” Miller said.

Despite some adverse reactions to the color changes, one thing will remain

on basic skills and a lot the same: the of personal a�ention,” coaches from last McLaughlin said. season. Cameron While the sport and Torre will be program continues to the varsity head grow, Pollins and Miller coach, Lauren remember choosing to play McLaughlin will lacrosse because it was the be the junior new, fun sport to play in varsity head Portage. coach and Ashley “I like how it’s Steffy will be an aggressive, but I didn’t assistant coach. have to be a man to play it,” Expectations Pollins said. “I really like are high this how we all have different season, as skills but they all work McLaughlin together in a game.” hopes that by Miller enjoys other creating teams AMY RUIMVELD/STAMPEDE aspects of the sport. that are equal in “My favorite thing is skill, they will JUMP FOR JOY: Senior Courtney McLive, center, conditions for her upcoming saving a goal, as I love being succeed and lacrosse season alongside three freshmen from Portage Northern. a defender,” Miller said. grow.

This popular and new “There’s a hopes to continue generating more interest sport is gradually growing lot of talent in in the sport. in numbers, and will hopefully grow Portage,” McLaughlin said. “I’m hoping Meanwhile, the season has already to allow each high school to have their that by combining the talent, the teams started. Practice takes place Monday own varsity team. The future of Portage will be more competitive.” through Friday at Ramona Park. women’s lacrosse is big and bright, and Since this is a relatively new sport, “We’re preparing for this season with this transition to a school sport is only the many girls are picking it up for the first a lot of conditioning, a lot of emphasis beginning. time in high school, and McLaughlin

Curling nationals invade Wings Stadium After Olympic campaign, U.S. Curlers come to Kalamazoo

BY ALEX McCARTHY

ALEX MCCARTHY/STAMPEDE

LAUGHING, CRYING

AND CURLING: Becca Hamilton, the skip (captain) of Team Hamilton, throws a stone during the U.S. National Curling Championships.

Sports Editor

Wings Stadium goes completely dark.

The crowd holds its breath. Spotlights dart from side to side of the rink as the bagpipe music of the Kalamazoo Pipe Band leads the athletes onto the ice.

Yes, this was the opening of the National Curling Championships that took place in Wings Stadium last week.

Somehow, over the past few weeks, curling has gone from a punchline to a national sensation. Whether or not we intended to do so, many of us watched a great deal of curling during the Winter Olympics this year, and as a result, we had a collective revelation: curling is awesome.

What other sport successfully combines standing around 90% of the time with huge colorful targets, sliding around on ice, and intensely complex strategy? Although standing around and strategizing is a big part of the sport, sweeping can be hard work, especially while trying to stay balanced on the ice.

Not only is curling a fun sport that still provides some exercise, but it’s also one of the most humorous sporting events to a�end. At the National Championships, I saw some of the most outrageous things I’ve ever seen at a sporting event. For example, a dance crew called the Zooperstars was dressed up in enormous inflatable animal costumes and danced throughout the crowd and two percussion groups (called Tribal Revival and Dunuya Drum and Dance Team) also toured the stadium. Perhaps the funniest things to me included

the TV set up in the Annex for Wii Curling and the curling hats which looked like curling stones.

While this may sound like a silly carnival, many people, especially the athletes, take curling very seriously. For them, it is a chance to prove themselves, become the best and in some cases, win a trip to Italy (where the Curling World Championships will be held).

How in the world have we not started a curling club at our school?

The Kalamazoo Curling Club meets at Wings Stadium every Monday night, so we have a curling facility nearby. From what I’ve seen over the past month, between the Olympics and the National Championships, curling is one of the most fun, loud (there’s a great deal of yelling) and chaotic (there are five games going on at once) sport.

While the simple way to describe curling is “shuffleboard on ice,” it is so much more. For instance, there were numerous story lines in this year’s National Championships. Two siblings, Craig and Erika Brown were the skips (captains) of the top seeded men’s and women’s teams respectfully. Although the U.S. Olympic curling teams didn’t show up, the skip of the men’s team, John Shuster, served as an alternate on Team Brown.

The sport of curling was invented hundreds of years ago in Scotland, but it’s just now becoming well-known and widely enjoyed in this area now. I say we jump on the bandwagon and start a curling club at Portage Central. Although there probably won’t be any fights between the teams like in recent hockey history, the amount of fun to be had on a Mustang curling team could surprise some students.

Don’t forgot tomorrrow is the 2nd Annual Sadie Hawkins’ Match Bash!

Today at lunch tickets are $7 per person At the door $8

STUDENT COUNCIL Portage Central

8-11 p.m.

Sports

11

Stampede

page eleven March 19, 2010

athletics and leisure

Spring break conditioning conflict

BY SARAH MANIS

Staff Writer

This year’s spring sports season is quickly approaching, and students are eager to build onto their pre-season conditioning strength. Pre-season conditioning for spring sports has been going on since January. In hopes to prepare athletes for their upcoming season, conditioning strengthens an athlete in more than one way. Not only does it help with physical endurance and strength, but it also helps in the aspect of team strength.

Nearing the beginning of the spring sports season, spring break interferes with pre-season conditioning.

While conditioning will continue throughout spring break, athletes leaving Portage for spring break are at an inconvenience.

“It’s hard not to be with the team, but it gives you time to work on your own mental strength and personal goals,” junior Brandon Yonke said.

Yonke plans on running everyday in preparation for his upcoming track season while at the same time enjoy his trip to Florida. After having conditioned with the team since January, Yonke looks forward to his own spring break conditioning.

“It’s good to be with the team because you can push each other and have a positive atmosphere, but its good to run by yourself every once and a while in order to work on your mental edge,” Yonke said.

Freshman Ben Greaves also understands and acknowledges the importance of personal and team strength.

“Team conditioning helps motivate me to push myself,” Greaves said. “I know I would run as mush as I should if I weren’t with the team.”

However, for those unable to a�end team conditioning during spring break, working out by themselves is beneficial.

“I think they should run on their own time,” Greaves said. “You can get really out of shape in a week.”

Even though spring break falls right before the beginning of the spring sports season, athletes know how to ensure their team and personal strength.

COURTESY OF BETH SIZEMORE

DOWN AND BACK: The lacrosse team (above) runs sprints to get in shape for the upcoming season.

ALEX MCCARTHY/STAMPEDE

STAY FIT: Junior Brandon Yonke (above) plans on running and staying in shape during vacation.

ALEX MCCARTHY/STAMPEDE

BUILDING ENDURANCE: Juniors Kyle Cutler and Jarred Bassett (above) lead a group of students in a run in the gym.

Seniors set goals for the season Golf team plans to take districts, compete at states

BY MORGAN CLOTHIER

Staff Writer

Men’s varsity golf is returning with many seniors driving their way to states. Although the team has had many gifted athletes in the past few years, this year’s veterans are ready to show off their talent.

Many seniors are beginning to focus on their last year golfing together and are se�ing the bar high. Seniors Michael Borre and Blake Demmond believe the upcoming season will be successful due to the number of seniors participating and their unbelievable talent.

“There were six of us [juniors] last year and we were good, but this year we will be even be�er,” Demmond said.

Demmond and Borre are ready to begin practicing and believe their team has a lot of potential. Demmond says many players are se�ing individual goals for the season, but the team hopes to accomplish many achievements as a whole.

“This year we will win districts and make it to states,” Demmond said.

The senior athletes aren’t the only ones preparing for this season. Coach Chuck Schira dislikes predicting this season’s outcome but has many aspirations for this spring.

“I always have a few goals for our team,” Schira said. “They include: winning the SMAC Central division, winning the all-SMAC Tournament and qualifying for the State finals.”

Borre and Demmond agree with the goals

Schira has in mind and hope this season will be one to remember. They hope to reach their goals as well as be role models for the younger and new players that will join them this season.

“There are a couple of freshman that are good and I hope [the seniors] will mesh well with the young talent,” Borre said.

The team has a positive outlook on the upcoming season and is hoping for the best.

Demmond believes the team will beat Portage Northern this year and be strong throughout the entire season.

HOLE IN ONE: Senior

Michael Borre sets goals for the upcoming season.

COURTESY OF MLIVE.COM

SAND MAN: Senior Blake Demmond (right) hits out of the sand at last year’s Conference Championship.

Mustang Sports Central

Head Coach: Corey McNeal

Basketball takes Northern by nine points Men’s Basketball

Captains: Max Taylor, Jeremy Renda Head Coach: Jim Murray

Physical game results in Mustang victory in Districts

March 2

JUNIOR RYAN MAY

February 26

SENIOR BRI RUSSEL

Ladies win conference by beating Northern

Captains: Monty Porter, Kyle Cutler

Record: 11-14

SOPHOMORE DEREK SCHNEIDER

Captains: Sabrina Pettis, Megan McQueen Head Coach: Matt Tabor

Record: 4-17

ALEX MCCARTHY/STAMPEDE

Record: 14-7

Hockey ALEX MCCARTHY/STAMPEDE

Women’s Basketball

JON ZOMER/STAMPEDE

February 26

ALL MINIS CURRENT AS OF FRIDAY, MARCH 12

12

Stampede

page twelve

Sports athletics and leisure

March 19, 2010

Mustang teams gear up for spring

“

We’ve got spring fever and we’re ready to go.

Senior

“

KEVIN IRWIN

BY AMBER LESTER

men’s golf Last year: SMAC Central Champions First game: April 12 @ Vicksburg Head Coach: Chuck Schira

“

We actually have a chance of going to states this year.

Senior

“

BRETT WAGNER

men’s lacrosse

Staff Writer

Being the best comes with its fair share of challenges, but the feeling of being number one can’t be beat. Any player on the women’s soccer team would agree.

The Women’s Soccer team currently holds the state championship title and heads into the season ranked as number one in the state. All athletes work hard, but with the fact of being number one hanging over their heads, the girls feel the need to be well prepared for the upcoming season. There’s also a deep sense of competition lingering in the air as the girls prep to keep their title.

“It’s really exciting to be on top,” senior Lauren Brown said. “It’s a challenge for us, we have to defend [our title], showing everyone we deserve to be number one.”

With the need to prove themselves again to the state the girls have a rigorous workout already going during the preseason. The girls are conditioning throughout the week, doing activities such as kickboxing, running and going to soccer clinics. The pressure may get in the way of some teams, but the players on this year’s team aren’t fazed by the looming season.

“It’s exciting, it makes you want to work a lot harder than last year,” senior Jordan Wolf said.

The girls are undoubtedly ready to get the season going, even though for the seniors the season is do or die.

There are no more chances to come back again next year and try and reclaim the title. As Brown said, there are no repeats this time around.

Many students would be glad to be state champions and have all the bragging rights of being number one.

However, the girls are careful in not le�ing the title get to their head. They know what they have to do and how it has to be done, but they also are very excited to get the season underway.

“I’m pumped, but I don’t think we can go in with a big head. We’re confident but not too confident. We’ll prove ourselves again,” senior Natalie Hall said.

Portage Central holds its students and athletes to high standards, but the athletes themselves hold to even higher standards. They realize slacking is not an option; if you want to win, you have to work for it.

“We’re definitely working hard. You constantly have a target on you back. Everyone wants to beat you. “Brown said.

softball Last year’s record: 32-11 First game: April 10 @ Comstock Invite Head Coach: Tom Hamilton

“

We’re going to go more intensely and as hard as last year.

JACKIE WARR Junior

women’s water polo Last year’s record: 7-8-1 First game: April 14 - Mason Tournament Head Coach: Eric Lancaster

“

Although we lost a lot of seniors, there definitely is a bunch of leadership on the team.

BETHANY SCHMALL Senior

“

Last year’s record: 30-9 First game: April 10 @ Comstock Head Coach: Paul Schneider

With a target on its back, women’s soccer looks to defend state title

“

baseball

women’s tennis

Last year’s record: 10-9 First game: Mar. 24 @ Holt Head Coach: Chris Sizemore

Last year’s record: 5-3-1 First game: April 13 Head Coach: Peter Militzer

“

“

We’ve had more offseason workouts, and that should help a lot.

“

Junior

EMILY CEGLAREK Senior

“

KYLE MARTIN

It’ll be an intense season. Once we start, we have some really tough matches.

COURTESY OF TAMMY BROWN

ONE SHINING MOMENT: After experiencing glory last year,

the Lady Mustangs are preparing to defend their crown.

women’s soccer

women’s lacrosse

I’m looking forward to improving my skills because since we’re playing against harder teams, it will just push me harder in the game.

Junior

“

MORGAN TORRE

“

...I’m confident that that if we play like we did last year and work hard, we can repeat (as state champs).

CHARLIE SOCIA Junior

“

“

Last year’s record: 27-0-2, State Champs Last year: Women finished second at First game: Mar. 24 against Mattawan conference meet, men finished fourth at Head Coach: Pat Norman conference meet.

First meet: April 8 Head Coach: Dan Wytko

COURTESY OF TAMMY BROWN

ALL PHOTOS COURTESY OF ALEX MCCARTHY/STAMPEDE UNLESS LABELED OTHERWISE

“

Younger members will have to bring something to the table because we lost some key people.

JARED PENLAND Senior

“

First game: Mar. 24 @ Battle Creek Club Head Coach: Cameron Torre

track and field