central
STAMPEDE
Volume 16 Issue 1
‘Hairspray’ dances its way to Mulay, p. 11
Oct. 15, 2010
A charitable Homecoming
Theme of generosity prevails over this week’s festivities
GAME ON!: Above left, class Adviser Kyle Herm and sophomores Kevin Collins, Connor Haworth, Kemi Cooper, Nicole Williams, Nick Corbit, Alyssa Burd and Cassie Cook line their float with a tarp. Above right, freshman class Adviser James Carrow and Paige Chester discuss plans.
PHOTOS BY EVAN ADAMS/STAMPEDE
WORKIN’ HARD: Juniors Lucas Everts, Melissa French, Rebecca Timmerman and Molly Ostrem (above) drill the base of their float.
In a new twist led by Student Council, Homecoming events, floats and games this year are geared toward raising money for the Make-a-Wish Foundation. Homecoming has always been viewed in drastically different ways. While some love the school spirit and festivities, some drift idly through it without any acknowledgement or enthusiasm and others resent it, seeing it as a completely superficial and meaningless tradition. Charities have always been on the backburner of Student Council’s intentions and goals. The proceeds from last year’s Talent Show initially sparked the flame for incorporating the Make-a-Wish Foundation into this Homecoming. Student Council members decided to make it into a more meaningful and communal event where the entire community can be involved and support the Make-a-Wish Foundation. “In the end, we are all working toward one cause, which is what really ma�ers,” parliamentarian Lindsay Shafer said. Shafer feels that by using this event to benefit a local charity, it gives Homecoming more value and substance than seen in the past. Adviser Mark Sutherland strongly believes in supporting local charities. Sutherland said, “By donating the proceeds directly into our local area, we not only make our community stronger but we also bring in a stronger turnout.” This year is the first time that PC has used Homecoming for charitable intentions. Sutherland describes the gradual transition from school benefit to charitable benefit as, “a new precedent that will reflect well on Student Council and the student body.” Student Council members say this is a stepping stone to creating a more charitable class, school and community.
by Evan Adams, Staff Writer
No more drug dogs, p. 3 • The truth about being a freshman, p. 6 • How bad is a Bosco stick? p. 7 • Captains lead their team, p. 15
2
News
Oct. 15, 2010
Updated policies, expensive passes BY KYNA GARRETT and TAYLOR FLECK Assistant Editors
time around. Instead of a flat rate of $10 for the whole school year, students must pay $5 a quarter a total of $20 for the year. The extra money students have to pay goes toward parking lot maintenance and security. In addition to the price change, if a student has two or more “2:50s” or an unexcused absence, they may not get a lunch pass. “Going out to lunch is a privilege, not a right,” Alburtus said. “It’s just one more thing that we hope will encourage students to make be�er decisions.”
A series of new policies greeted students when they arrived for the first day of school in september.
Tardy policy
The new tardy policy consists of four “freebies” per semester compared to the previous policy of a detention at the third or fourth tardy, with an increasing number of detentions following. According to Principal Eric Alburtus, the tardy policy has always been difficult to manage among teachers. So in turn, teachers looked to possible solutions. “We started talking more seriously about how to get things off teachers’ plates so they can focus on teaching,” Alburtus said. With the new policy, teachers only have the responsibility of recording tardies in the computer, giving the students the opportunity to take care of the issue themselves. They have the choice of claiming a “freebie” for their current tardy or taking a detention. Once a student has used their four tardies, they begin earning detentions. Although there are hopes this policy will improve the learning environment, some students are feeling the pressure of this new change. “It’s really hard to be on time to most classes because of the Waylee walk,” said
Athletic passes
sophomore Nikki Williams, who already has had four tardies. “I think it’s ridiculous that you have to have a detention after every tardy.” Teachers are hopeful the change will allow for less distraction and be�er organization in the classroom. “I hope it just establishes that consistency with teachers in the classroom,” commi�ee member and French teacher Sara Heil said,
Brief
The price is now raised from $35 to $50 for a 69 cent stamp student pass, and has risen from $65 to $80 for a family pass. The reason for this change is the JAMES KETELAAR/STAMPEDE pay-to-play debate. Instead of making students pay money for sports they participate in, the school is making hoping it not only improves the system, smaller changes such as raising prices on but teaches students the importance of athletic and parking passes. punctuality. As far as parking passes go, changes made this year include eliminating student eligibility Lunch passes to park in the senior lot and having students In previous years, lunch passes cost a and parents sign a consent form. flat rate of $5. If a student had an unexcused Alburtus was too concerned for the safety absence, one could not be purchased. This of the students who crossed the street to keep year, however, students may have noticed that this lot as designated student parking. buying their lunch passes are different this
in
Seniors must schedule a senior interview with their counselor, in order to make an accurate checklist of requirements before graduation. This includes post-graduation plans, college applications and credit requirements. The meetings are intended to prevent last-minute “surprises” before graduation. Seniors should meet with their counselor before Halloween according to the guidance office.
Lock-up update The Portage Police Department continues to search for leads about who made a telephone bomb thread in mid-September. Witnesses state that a man 25 to 35 years old was seen making a phone call at the same location and time of the threat. The man was 5’7”-5’8”, had short black hair, wore a red T-shirt and drove away in a metallic green vehicle. If you have any information, please call Silent Observer at 269-342-2100, or text “KZOO” and your tip to CRIMES (274637).
NEW PCHS
Required senior interviews Silent observer
The National Honor Society (NHS) hosted a successful blood drive last month that ended up saving almost 150 lives. There were 49 successful donors, and 14 of them were first-time donors, according to NHS. There were also 20 volunteers to help with set-up, clean-up and registration, as well as keeping donors company during the drive.
College plans needed
NHS Blood drive
Annual blood drive a success
CONSTRUCTION UPDATE
This
Month...
Painting and installing drywall Installing light features and ceilings Installing elevator and exterior doors
News Drug dog program on
PAWS
3
Oct. 15, 2010
Safety asset to be terminated due to lack of funds BY ALI FULLING
V
THROWING A BONE: Connor Haworth, Maddy Krenselewski, Matt Schuen and Chelsea Williams raised money for the drug dog program during the Open House.
Several years ago, this program was entirely funded by donations from concerned community members and school participants. For the past few years, the school has been protecting Now that the money is nearly dried up, the students from drugs and alcohol through preventative $200 necessary for each visit has become too expensive. programs and discussions in the curriculum. However, unless The PTO and concerned students are trying to raise funds for the program. During the Open House in Sept., the necessary funds are raised this year, one of these programs will be cut. students wearing dog ears walked around with buckets, The highly trained drug and alcohol detecting dogs of asking parents and faculty for donations. the “drug dog program,” who randomly visit the school to “I heard about it and wanted to help. Every li�le bit sniff out illegal substances in lockers, backpacks and cars, are counts,” junior Maddy Krenselewski said. considered a vital part of the school’s safety. They rose a li�le over $400, which only provides two of “They’re not here every day, but what they the six PHOTO COURTESY OF SUSAN FULLINGto eight visits needed each year. do is send a message to the students to If members of the community would like to contribute, leave that stuff outside of school,” Principal donation forms are available in the front office. Any size Eric Alburtus said. “It’s easier and safer for donation is appreciated to help continue this program that everyone.” protects students, according to school leaders.
View Editor
olunteer
of the
BY RACHAEL LEFEVRE Editor-in-Chief
Q: Where do you volunteer? A: I volunteer at a lot of places.
This summer I had 68 hours doing library volunteering with the summer reading program. Also, I do this thing called ball running for tennis tournaments, and I was the manager for that.
Month
A: I guess it feels good afterwards. I like helping people, so it all works out [for both of us].
Q: Why do you like volunteering?
A: I sometimes like volunteering with
my friends, so that helps. Also, like I said, it makes me happy.
A: Yeah, it got me really close to many of the tennis players.
Q: Are there certain events that you volunteered at?
A: Yes, [I volunteered at] the USTA Nationals Tournament. I have been volunteering there four years.
Q: Was this your first How did you get involved Q: What does being the man- Q: time volunteering at the with volunteering at the library ager entail?
A: Being a manager, I have to help
and ball running?
library this summer?
A: No, it was my second year.
beginning and inexperienced ball runners and also manage the shifts.
A: I used information on the Web and pamphlets that were asking for volunteers.
most rewarding part of your volunteer experience?
was ball running something you If you’re interested in sharing your time at the library, send an email to got involved with through there? info@portagelibrary.info.
Q: What do you think is the
Q: I know you play tennis, so
Daichi Hirakawa
4
View
Oct. 15, 2010
Drug program: A vital tool If funds aren’t raised, the drug dog program will cease to exist here. In recent years,
fiveon five 1 2 3 4 5
our view benefactors have funded the program, but now the money has dried out. These highly-trained
Do you think drug dogs help keep our school safe?
What do you want to do before the school gets demolished?
alcohol and drug detection dogs have limited the amount of illegal substances at our school. Their presence
Abby Cornue, 9th Hunter Mohney, 10th Yes, because you get Yes, because the rid of all the drug use. dogs sniff out the drugs in our school. Pull my handprint out Take pictures of the of the wall. handprints of the Class of 2011.
discourages students from bringing questionable substances to school. We urge community
members to make a contribution to this cause. With its past success, we cannot afford to lose a valuable program that keeps the campus safe.
Kaitlen Bingham, 11th No, because they can only search lockers. Write all over the walls and lockers.
Brandon Chase 12th Yes, because they don’t only smell drugs, they smell gunpowder. We should be able to graffiti the school.
Ms. Kubinski Yes, because they have worked in the past.
I just want to leave this ugly building.
What do you think is I don’t eat the cafeteria food at all. the worst cafeteria food? “Green Lantern” What movie are you
The pizza.
I think the pizza is really gross.
I haven’t eaten in the cafeteria since sophomore year.
Chicken, because I’ve seen what’s done to process it.
“The Town”
“You Again”
“Wall Street: Money Never Sleeps”
“Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows”
Good. Great. How will the football team do this season?
They will make it to regionals.
Good. I mean, they were undefeated.
We are going to be undefeated. [Editor’s note: Sorry, Brandon].
7-2.
looking forward to seeing this fall?
Stampede Staff Morgan Clothier Rachael LeFevre Editors-in-Chief Amy Ruimveld..............................News Editor Ali Fulling......................................View Editor Omo Ogbomo..............................Focus Editor Marissa Miars................................Vibe Editor Sarah Manis................................Sports Editor
Assistant Editors/Staff Writers: Evan Adams, Matthew Brandt, Taylor Fleck, Kyna Garrett, Taylor Haynes, James Ketelaar, Nicole Leffingwell, Tucker Webb, Grant Walters, Chloe Westley. Artist: James Ketelaar Business Manager: Jarred Bassett Adviser: Cheryl Braford The Central Stampede publishes approximately one publication a month, primarily by the Journalism II class at Portage Central High School, 8135 S. Westnedge, Portage, MI 49002. It also uses work from Journalism I students.
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.
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. Office: (269) 323-5218 Fax: (269) 323-5290 Room 306
The Central Stampede 8135 South Westnedge Ave. Portage, MI 49002
View Senior parking lot conundrum Seniors deserve a designated parking lot
Grouped parking is more practical
editor-inchief
view editor
MORGAN CLOTHIER
5
Oct. 15, 2010
ALI FULLING
History shows that seniors year after year have parked in a luxurious, exclusive lot. However, this year the seniors have been banned from this privilege for many reasons. Yes, there are potential risks that come along with walking in front of traffic, but that hasn’t stopped seniors in the past. Cars know to look and stop for pedestrians while in a school zone, especially during school hours. As a senior, I believe we deserve designated parking spots away from the underclassmen. Many seniors have been dreaming of their own parking lot for the last three years of high school. Not only was this dream crushed, our class has suffered greatly for the fourth consecutive year. We were the away team when we played Northern this year, we have harsher class requirements than previous years, we don’t get to use the new building (we get to walk past it on our long walk to Waylee) and our right to yell, “Go home, freshmen!” has been stripped from us. As you can see, this years senior class deserves to feel superior for a change. Taking away our well-earned parking is like making us sit at the top of the stands during football games. The perfect solution to this dilemma would be to re-open the senior parking lot for the remainder of the year. It may be a li�le hectic, but at least we will have something positive to remember about our last year here.
Sometimes traditions need to be ended for the greater good; and I applaud the decision to change the senior parking lot into strictly administrative parking. Yes, parking in the senior lot is something everyone feels they deserve. Spending three years either on the bus or waiting behind an inexperienced sophomore driver can make you feel entitled. But with the new layout of the schools, it’s actually more practical for everyone to park in the junior lot. Being directly between both campuses, you can access your car easily and use it as a second locker. Also, with fewer cars in the administrative lot, emergency vehicles can park there in situations like the lock-up at the start of the school year. Safety is also improved now that students don’t have to cross the street to get to the high school. Almost every year a student is hit or almost hit by a hurried soccer mom driving to the middle school. The new parking lot has more spaces and only requires one person to check lunch passes. The senior parking lot, in comparison, isn’t that great. It’s only its hype and exclusivity that makes it seem be�er than it is. Seniors, you’ve never had it, so there’s nothing to miss. Overall, it’s just more convenient for the school district to keep the old senior lot as administrative parking. With the new school, many traditions will be broken, and this is one that will benefit the majority. JAMES KETELAAR/STAMPEDE
staff writer
M AT T H E W B R A N D T
As a school and building dating over 80 years, Portage Central High School has many memories and famous, well-known landmarks. In memorandum of these places, here we give a traveler’s guide to some of the more popular, most used, and most mysterious landmarks of PCHS. The Hall Of Fame and The Hall Of Hands: Right next to Lake Alburtus, this hall extends from the main entrance to the 300 hallway and contains many legacies of Mustang spirit.
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Lake Alburtus: This sinkhole outside the stairwell fire doors and by the Hall of Fame is endearingly named after our beloved principal. Rumored to never dry out (not true, was last seen empty in the late spring of 2008), this lake will not exist when the new school is built. The Courtyard: This haven of tall grasses, stumpy trees and baby ducks is located between the 200 and 300 halls and will be non-existent when the new school comes. Teacher Doors: Some doors throughout the school have been painted to reflect something about the teacher behind the door. These will most likely not be taken to the new school, and we suggest that you visit your favorite rooms and doors to take memorable pictures. Underground tunnels: The old tunnel system under the school is shrouded in mystery and conspiracy. These tunnel systems spread throughout the whole
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school and probably even further. Usually marked by old rusty doors, these tunnels are not for student exploration, period. Exploration of these tunnels will most likely result in some very dirty pants. Horribly Red Teachers Lounge: Anyone who’s caught a glimpse of the teachers lounge will most likely agree that it was painted a nasty, crimson red. Hopefully the new lounge will be a more comfortable seabreeze green, but go ahead and cringe at the current color for now. How many classrooms have American flags? Just for fun, here’s a challenge for true Mustang fans. The answer: found at the bo�om of the page.
6.
7.
PHOTOS BY SARAH MANIS/STAMPEDE
Answer: 32
Find these sites before they’re gone
View
6
Oct. 15, 2010
with Tucker Webb
Don’t catch bro-itis What makes a man a man? Is it the size of his muscles? Is it his ability to wear trendy skin-tight shirts? Or perhaps, the carroty colour of his skin? I say “NAY,” for it is none of these factors that truly makes a man. Back in the day, men weren’t interested in how they looked in the morning. These men grabbed whatever clothes were on hand, and depending on their mood, they went for comfortable or something functional. I don’t actually remember this time, but I look back upon it fondly. Today, it is all about looks for too many men. I believe this stems from an insidious disease commonly known as “Bro-itis.” This disease manifests itself in a number of ways, including but not limited to: spending vast quantities of money in Hollister, American Eagle and other stores of that nature, hair that looks like it absorbed a bo�le of Bed Head, fist pumping, and admiration for the glory of “The Situation.” This disease has caused many men of our generation to get fake orange spray tans, gel up their hair in a fashion intentionally styled to look un-styled, and work out for no other reason than to get “toned.” My question is, what is the point of working out if you are not going to do something strenuous and manly, like chop down trees or fight the occasional grizzly bear? Do you think Bruce Lee just got “toned“? No. He was too busy inventing his own martial art. This new disease plaguing our generation of men also causes them to act, or not act, in a way which differs heavily from the men of old. Men in the “olden days” really didn’t care too much about how others perceived them. They kept true to themselves and did what they dang well pleased. Imagine Chuck Norris stopping to quickly gel up his hair before he kicked unmitigated amounts of face. All too often now, men simply become a part of a homogeneous whole and lack characteristics that define them as individuals. They become self-conscious and begin to rationalize things based on how they would be received by their public. This leads to hair gelled to u�er oblivion, barb-wire ta�oos across bulging, oversized biceps and wearing V-neck shirts so deep it makes the Grand Canyon blush. I guess what I’m trying to say is, do your own thing. The long winding dirt path to “man-dom” starts with doing what you want, not what society wants you to want. If that means you occasionally wear a grungy yet comfortable pair of pants, so be it. So be a man. And try not to shop at stores with large pictures of shirtless men.
Tucker Webb, a junior, is a staff writer for the Central Stampede.
Hey freshmen, high school isn’t that bad Are you hearing rumors or facts? staff writer M AT T H E W B R A N D T Freshmen! Welcome to high school. Here, for the next few years, you will spend roughly eight hours a day learning random subjects that adults see fit for you to learn. Also, you will be subjected to the general drama associated with high school. There are many rumors that shroud our school. Here we list some of the more popular ones and differentiate what is true from what we seniors tell you to amuse ourselves.
1.
High school is like the Internet. If the Internet didn’t have a purpose other than to learn, it would make up for it with 4G service of everything that happens. What happens in school will be talked about behind your back, twisted and demurred and then reiterated in a totally new form that is a complete and u�er lie. Learn that you must either keep your secrets to yourself or learn that what other people say is usually twisted jealousy or false assumptions and that none of that stuff ma�ers. Learn, and high school will be much easier.
2.
There is (unofficially), a Kick A Freshman Day. It was invented probably by a senior to be demeaning towards freshmen. However, it does not mean that the seniors are rude, barbaric cavemen who prey on freshmen for personal gratification. Translation: we don’t all bully the freshmen. We might give the occasional snide remark about freshmen, but we aren’t trying to be mean. In regards to Kick a Freshman Day, there is Freshman Retaliation Day the day after.
3.
We do not stab you with needles in the hallway. The occasional and accidental pencil sticking out of a pocket, maybe. But needles? No.
4.
High school is be�er than middle school. Anyone who actually enjoyed the majority of their middle school years needs to have their head checked. High school will be awesome and fun. Just don’t graduate and reminisce at age 80 how school was the best years of your life. That would be sad.
5.
It used to be a school-wide tradition that everyone would yell at the freshmen at pep rallies. Due to an unfortunate circumstance of one freshman taking offense to this in 2008, this is no longer tolerated by the school administration. You may now proceed through the rallies unscathed, freshmen.
6.
You are not going to be pushed down the stairs. The only way that you will fall down the stairs is if you are: A) goofing off, B) walking up four stairs at a time, or, C) stepping on your shoelaces. There is no need for climacophobia (the fear of stairs).
7.
Everyone has heard of the classic high school torture device: the locker. It’s cold, enclosed and smells downright nasty. The good news? You aren’t going to be put in a locker unless you voluntarily go in one.
8.
School is not a scary place. It is intimidating sometimes, but you are here to learn. However, there is not a gun in every other locker and we do not have a lockdown every other month. So don’t worry! Consider yourselves educated, freshmen. There is no longer any rational need to be afraid of being stuffed in a locker or being senior bait. So relax, sit down in your extremely small and uncomfortable desks, and enjoy school.
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Focus
Oct. 15, 2010
Counting the cost: cafeteria calories BY MARISSA MIARS
Vibe Editor
Beginning next fall, only seniors will be given the privilege that has previously been granted to all upperclassmen: off-campus lunch. This change in school policy means three-fourths of students will be exploring the option that the cafeteria has to offer on a daily basis. Although it is stated by law that nutrition facts of cafeteria food must be readily available to students, faculty, and parents alike, many might not think to ask or even know who to ask. The Stampede has done this work for you, compiling a list of nutrition information for some of the school’s most popular lunch items, encouraging students to at least consider a healthier option before biting into those Bosco sticks (380 calories).
Smooshed cookie calories: 310 protein: 3g carbohydrates: 44g total fat : 14g saturated fat: 6g sodium: 260 mg fiber: 1g
Turkey and swiss panini calories : 504 protein : 30.8 g carbohydrates : 64.4 g total fat : 13.05 g saturated fat: 4.25 g sodium: 1929 mg fiber : 3.61 g
Hummus and pita calories : 475 protein : 14 g carbohydrates : 81 g total fat : 11 g saturated fat: 1.96 g sodium: 902 mg fiber : 9 g
Pepperoni pizza calories: 440 protein: 20.15g carbohydrates: 42.97 total fat: 19.55g saturated fat: 8.4g sodium: 857mg fiber: 4.5g PHOTOS BY TAYLOR FLECK AND MARISSA MIARS/STAMPEDE
Hey Mustangs! Student Council wanted to let you know the Homecoming game is tonight at 7:00, and the parade is at 6:00. Come and support your grade and your school! Thank you for contributing this week to the Make a Wish Foundation through Penny Wars, the money you raised will help make many kids’ dreams come true.
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Focus
Oct. 15, 2010
New year, new faces
Changes in staff mix the old with the new
Mrs. Smith
Mr. Mr. Carrow Lane
Mrs. Fort
Ms. Peak
Ms. Moore
Subject: Algebra, Algebra 2
Subject: Chemistry
Subject: Business/ Technology
Subject: A li�le bit of everything
Years spent teaching: 20 years
Years spent teaching: This is my first year
Years spent teaching: 11 years
Years spent teaching: Three years
Subject: Special Ed. Algebra and English
Childhood dream career: Forest Ranger
Childhood dream career: Either a ninja or a teacher
Childhood dream career: I worked in Human Resources for six years; realized the “corporate world” was not for me. So I became a teacher and knew it was my calling!
Childhood dream career: A rock star
Funny/bad memories from the first day of school: The new white boards didn’t work with the class arrangement, so I had to move everyone around.
Funny/bad memories from the first day of school: On the second day of school, I caught my first cell phone so we had a quick celebration.
Subject: Biology/ Online Learning Lab Years spent teaching: One year Childhood dream career: I wanted to have my own TV about animals like Jeff Corwin Funny/bad memories from the first day of school: I spelled some words wrong on the board.
Funny/bad memories from the first day of school: I don’t have any, my students are awesome. I’m thrilled to be a Mustang!
Funny/bad memories from the first day of school: I don’t have any, the students and staff have been wonderful.
Years spent teaching: Two years
Buy one 6” sub get one free!
Rod Nedervelt has returned once more to teach a couple classes due to the loss of staff. “I was always in charge of the annual golf outing, and two years ago it was rained out, so I’m really just here to give everyone their prizes,” he said.
Childhood dream career: Journalist, teacher, or Supreme Court Justice Funny/bad memories from the first day of school: I don’t have any.
INTERVIEWS AND PHOTOS COMPILED BY OMO OGBOMO/STAMPEDE
Centre Street Subway 1256 E. Centre St. — 324-7827 Walmart Location - 8350 Shaver Road
Back for more...
Kenneth W. Grabowski, D.D.S. Orthodontics KENNETH W. GRABOWSKI Orthodontist
Karen Taylor has returned to teach two classes. “When I retired, I knew I wasn’t done with education, so when Mr. Alburtus asked me to come back I was happy to,” she said.
7864 Moorsbridge Portage, MI 49024 (269) 323-0212 Fax (269) 323-8380 www.grabowskiortho.com
Member American Association of Orthodontists
9
Focus
Oct. 15, 2010
View Editor
Freshman Dominic Latora does not own an exotic zoo, but rather the newest craze. “It started with a blue rhino,” Latora said. “I went to camp, traded some and ended up with, like, 20 of them.”
DE AMPE
RACH
BY ALI FULLING
E/ST
Silly Bandz and other trends sweep the nation
VR LEFE AEL
Silly or sweet?
Trends like Silly Bandz have swept our generation and those before us. Some ideas stick and make millions of dollars in profit. One of the oldest fads that still pops up today is the pet rock fad. Gary Dahl, who advertised the rocks as the perfect pet and packaged them the way you would a hamster or lizard, conceived pet rocks in 1975. Still today, elementary-aged children paint, name and keep rocks as pets. Pogs were also a huge trend in the 1990s. They simply were tiny cardboard discs with cartoon characters, accompanied by a game like most trading cards today. In 1996, Nintendo created Pokémon cards in Japan to accompany the popular video game. In 1998 these cards hit the North American market and the fad began. Similar trading cards to Pokémon were Yu-Gi-Oh, developed in 1999, and Magic: he Gathering, developed in 1993. Many bought the cards to play the card game, but they were also seen as a valuable collector’s item. Junior Will DeVries was one
of those very avid collectors. “I guess it was something about the cards or the pictures that made them seem appealing as a collectible,” DeVries said. “I never really played any of the games.” This year’s trend is Silly Bandz. Coming in a variety of shapes, from simple zoo animals to ones that support causes like Autism Awareness, many students find these colored rubber bands desirable. “I have [Silly Bandz] because I love rubber bands. Why not have them in cool shapes and colors?” Latora said. “The best ones are either the glow-in-the-dark dinosaurs or any color elephant band.” Silly Bandz creator Robert Croak continues to make millions on shaped rubber, that is, until the next craze takes over and the rhino and baseball bat bracelets become an old collector’s item.
10
Oct. 15, 2010
Vibe
TEXT BY MARISSA MIARS/STAMPEDE
Quick Hits
Senior Ali Noggle spices up a black sweater with matching turquoise accessories
Restaurants Coffee Rocks Cafe 165 W. Centre Ave. Cafe/ Deli BY NICOLE LEFFINGWELL
Concerts
Music
Music
from
RUNWAY
HALLWAY
to
Coffee Rocks Café is everything as promised: it rocks. This eatery has everything necessary to make you smile, served with a smile.They not only sell coffee, they have smoothies, juice, tea and pop ranging in many flavors. Coffee Rocks consists of both a breakfast and lunch menu. Mouth-watering breakfast foods include Belgium waffles, eggs and toast. Their lunch menu offers a variety of soups, salads and sandwiches at reasonably low prices. They also offer great desserts such as Ashby’s ice cream and shakes. This restaurant is the perfect spot for any Mustang, especially for lunch. A 15 percent discount is given to students with a valid ID and it is within walking distance (located next to Lodo’s) .
Junior Carly Siko mixes prints and textures to create overall appeal
Students strut their stuff
Dan Deacon Oct. 8 Electronic BY JAMES KETELAAR/ TUCKER WEBB
Dan Deacon’s performance held at The Stru� last Friday night was absolutely amazing. The three opening acts were all spectacular. Each act poured out a vast amount of energy, culminating in the lead singer of Child Bite biting a glow-stick in half mid-song and pouring it all over himself on stage.But when Deacon took the stage, everything changed. The music was exactly what was expected: loud, pumping, synth-heavy techno beats. But with his massive 10-man band, the music took on a depth in the live performance that couldn’t be heard on his album. And his use of lights and strobes enhanced his music to mind-altering levels. Dan Deacon’s Midwest tour is pre�y much wrapped up, but if you get a chance to see him when he returns to the Kalamazoo area, don’t miss it. We promise you won’t regret it.
Senior Casey Pence adds interest to a simple gray v-neck with an oversized cardigan
History intern Ms. Carol pairs orange, purple and white together in a unique color combination that pops
PHOTOS BY NICOLE LEFFINGWALL/STAMPEDE
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Vibe
Oct. 15, 2010
60 ”
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Movies
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TAM
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KET E PED
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“Easy A” Will Gluck Comedy/ Romance
JAM
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Quick Hits
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expectations
‘Hairspray’ dances its way here BY CHLOE WESTLEY Assistant Editor The Tony Award-winning musical, “Hairspray,” is dancing its way to Portage Central this February with expectations higher than the huge hairdos that come along with it. Speaking of huge, director Kathy Mulay, is expecting a show “bursting with song and dance.” The audience may want to loosen their belt buckle because this performance is expected to be big. Beginning with Tracy Turnblad, a teen with “a li�le KATHY MULAY more to love,” who has her dreams come true when given a dancing spot on the popular Corny Collins Show. Tracy soon realizes that she must use her new stardom to make a dent in the world, all without denting her hair sprayed locks. Mulay knew she wanted to tackle this musical since last spring. “[Hairspray] is a blockbuster and everyone has been waiting for the rights to be released,” Mulay said. COURTESY OF KATHY MULAY “It is a great show for high school students
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and it has a wonderful educational message. The theme of the show is acceptance and calls for people of all sizes, shapes and ethnic background.” This means people of all walks of life are encouraged to audition. Senior Bri�anie Trevarrow is excited to be able to pick from such diverse possible characters. “I decided I wanted to audition for Tracy Turnblad because of her relatability,” Trevarrow said. “She is totally comfortable with her appearance and really shows her optimistic view on life. She’s really a good example for everyone.” Such characters set an example that sends a positive educational message. In addition to Tracy’s golden heart, she has a pair of golden dancing feet. “The dancing is going to be so much fun this year,” choreographer Melissa Sparks said. Every year, Sparks bases the dancing around the musical’s decade. “I’ve never done a musical set in the ‘60s,” junior Marlee Mones said. “I’m so excited to learn some fun new dance moves from that time period like the mashed potato mamba.” This show is stuffed with catchy songs, quirky characters and big laughs.
[Hairspray] is a blockbuster and everyone has been waiting for the rights to be released.
BY EVAN ADAMS This mess of well-developed themes, performances and depth makes “Easy A” a refreshing break from Hollywood’s teen comedy filth. Carried by emerging actress Emma Stone, this film gives the audience a well-rounded, yet sometimes stereotypical high school tale.From criticisms of religious fanatics to adulterous teachers, the film does a decent job at addressing high school’s distasteful side. As the characters face challenges, they deal with them with eloquence and humor. Though a repetitive film at times, the most redeeming quality of the experience is the charming Stone. Throughout the film, her charisma and resilience is what enables her jokes to hit hard nearly every time. Though the film lacks some key ingredients, “Easy A” delivers an entertaining high school story but still falls short of the high school drama of our generation, “Mean Girls.”
Movies
Music
Music
“The Social Network” David Fincher Documentary/Drama BY JAMES KETELAAR
A�ention: This is not “The Facebook Movie.” It is as much about Facebook as “Titanic” is about boating. “The Social Network” doesn’t have a mind-blowing ending or an explosive climax but it does have one of the most well-wri�en scripts of the last decade. Additionally, the cast is spectacular. Jesse Eisenberg creates the perfect tragic hero in Mark Zuckerberg, and on a side-note, it’s nice to see Brenda Song, of Disney Channel infamy, give a terrifyingly perfect side-performance as the insane girlfriend Christy Lee. At first, “The Social Network” didn’t seem like the type of movie that director David Fincher and screenwriter Aaron Sorkin would be involved with. In spite of this, they pull it off brilliantly.
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12
Vibe
Oct. 15, 2010
Autotune: the downfall of music assistant editor
JAMES KETELAAR
Turn on the radio right now, but refrain from blasting the stereo, lest you annoy everyone around you. Now, tune your radio to a pop station, like 103.3 FM. Listen very carefully to the music coming out of the speakers. Focus on the vocals if you can. Do you hear that? Do you hear how it sounds like the band is being fronted by a robot? Don’t worry; the robot revolt hasn’t begun yet. You’re just hearing something much worse, and it is a virus spreading through all of pop music. That cancer is Autotune. Autotune hasn’t always been such a heinous crime in the world of music. It was developed as a way to eliminate
slight errors in singing, like li�le hiccups in pitch by the singer somewhere in the song. In this sense, Autotune is excusable. I’ll admit that nothing ruins the feel of a song more than when you hear the singer flub a note. But in recent years, it’s grown drastically out of control. Many singers (perhaps there should be air quotes around that word) no longer use Autotune to correct minor errors in an otherwise passable performance. They use Autotune to make the performance. Case in point: T-Pain. T-Pain is the one man who has actually managed to become synonymous with Autotune. Have you ever actually heard T-Pain sing a note? In fact, he raises an interesting conundrum: T-Pain calls himself a “rapper,” yes? But if the majority of the vocals in his music have a melody and a tune, then by definition he isn’t rapping. Yet at the same time, TPain doesn’t sing these notes. He is not a singer. So what is he? What do you call a person who supplies the vocals for a song without actually doing the vocal performance? Can they actually be considered a performer anymore? The real question is, why has Autotune become so widespread? I assume that the recent obsession with Autotune in the
music industry is because of the perception that the listener demands perfection. On paper it makes a bit of sense: What be�er way to guarantee that people like the music than by guaranteeing that the music is as flawless as possible. Ignoring the fact that, if the singer isn’t good to begin with, Autotune just makes them sound like they swallowed a computer, there is another gaping hole of logic in this train of thought. The best performances are not always the most well-tuned. Would Nirvana have really been improved if someone had corrected the raw, screeching, purely emotional power that Kurt Cobain injected into every lyric? Would you still like “Drop It Like It’s Hot” as much if Snoop had turned his perfect flow into a clunky faux-bot tune? Sometimes, being off the melody in a song can lead to perfect harmony. We like to look back at the last generation of music and point out who was the “voice” of a bygone era, how the Beatles were the voice of revolution in the ‘60s, how punk music was the voice of rebellion in the ‘70s. I plead to you, people, please help stop the spread of this disease through music. When people look back on us thirty or forty years from now, let’s hope the voice of our generation isn’t Autotuned.
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Weekend Pass
an all-access guide to what’s happening this weekend
What?
A historic wal king tour that delivers th e weird, the haunted and th e historic stories found throughout Kalamazoo.
Whhat W at??
The sm a Legall sh hit film, y into a Blonde is tu play w rned it more humo h even r and Wher style e? Miller A 1903 W uditorium, e Avenu st Michigan e
Whha W at?t?
A ce le Ligh bration t Ga o llery f the Jo featu y o r from ing two f Asian Art exhi Rich b ard Fabi itions Whe an re? Kala maz oo In Arts , s Stree 314 Sou titute of th Pa t rk
Whe
n
? Al l d Oct ay all w e 15, 1 6 an ekend d 17
Where?
Mountain Hom e Cemetery, 1402 W Main St
When?
Today and Satu rday Oct 15 and 16 6- 8:45pm
When ?
Today , Frida y Oct 8pm 15
id Beauty Amxhibit Thunder E
at
Legally Blonde the Musical
Ghosts of Kalamazooo
14
Sports
Oct. 15, 2010
BY TAYLOR HAYNES
Staff Writer
Last November, the student section went crazy in Ba�le Creek’s Kellogg Arena as the varsity volleyball team faced the Bloomfield Hills Marian Mustangs for the state championship. With only two seniors, one of whom was on the injured list for the entire second half of the season, the girls proudly ended their season with a 62-7 record and a #2 state ranking. This year, the team is made up of seven seniors, two juniors and two sophomores. “We get along well with each other, we know each other really well and we have really good chemistry,” senior Claire LaFave said. “I think the team works be�er this way.” Coach Dawn Jaqua agrees that team chemistry is not her biggest concern, but rather, consistency. “We’re inconsistent because everyone’s kind of looking to the left or to the right for somebody
else to step up and lead,” Jaqua said. She added, “An incredible, incredible senior leader is Claire LaFave. She’s working hard every day in practice, she’s constantly being supportive, encouraging her teammates and she provides all kinds of positive energy. She’s coming out as a strong leader for us.” Additional key returning players from last year’s team are seniors Courtney Rehm and Taylor Galloway. “Taylor helps us be disciplined because she always wants to get be�er and then Courtney is more like the bubbly, loud one,” LaFave said. Galloway has received a four-year athletic scholarship to Michigan State University and Rehm received one to Ferris State University. “I definitely have to represent Portage Central and Ferris State when I play volleyball,” Rehm said. “I wouldn’t say I work harder but I know that I can’t slack off.” The volleyball team is set to take on powerhouse Jenison on Tuesday evening.
TAYLOR HAYNES/STAMPEDE
Setting up for success
TIME-OUT: Coach Dawn Jaqua talks with the varsity team during a time-out.
Fridays: November 5, 2010 – General AQDay November 12, 2010 – Science/Nursing/Math AQDay November 19, 2010 – General AQDay March 18, 2011 – Leadership AQDay March 25, 2011 – Business, Accounting, Technology AQDay April 15, 2011 – General AQDay Saturday: January 22, 2011 – Athletic AQDay Join us for AQDays and learn what life is really like at Aquinas College. If these dates don’t work, we also offer individual isits during the academic year. To learn more or register, visit www.aquinas.edu/undergraduate/visit or call (800) 678-9593.
1607 Robinson Road, SE | Grand Rapids, MI 49506-1799 616 632-2900 or 800 678-9593 | www.aquinas.edu
15
Sports
Oct. 15, 2010
Senior captains show their leadership on the field KYLE CUTLER
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Height: 6’0” Weight: 220 lbs. Position: Quarterback Individual Goals: Receiving first team all-conference quarterback. Team Goals: Winning the conference championship for the fifth time in a row and qualifying for and winning states. Keys to Success: We’re all a family and it’s important to keep that bond but at the same time it’s important to continue working hard.
DYLAN ARBANAS
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Height: 5’9” Weight: 210 lbs. Position: Center/ Defensive End Individual Goals: I want our team to be undefeated in the conference this season. Team Goals: Beating Lowell is a huge goal for us this year. Keys to Success: Working your hardest every day will pay off in the end.
RYAN KRILL
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Height: 6’4” Weight: 200 lbs. Position: Tight End Individual Goals: Doing whatever it takes to help the team achieve our goals and maintain our success. Team Goals: Qualifying and winning the state championship. Keys to Success: Playing well together and always working hard no ma�er what.
NICK PRICE
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BRIAN WISE
22
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Height: 5’9” Weight: 175 lbs. Position: Linebacker Individual Goals: Leading the team in tackles…again, and receiving first team all-conference. Team Goals: Win our fifth consecutive conference championship outright, and win states for the first time ever. Keys to Success: Working hard in practice, and always being able to overcome adversity.
Height: “6’4” ish on a good day. Doctors say I’m 5’9” though because they’re jealous.” Weight: “235 lbs.-ish. I mean in reality I’m 185 but once again 6’4” and 185 lbs. doesn’t sound that good, it would mean I was really skinny.” Position: Running Back Individual Goals: Averaging 10 yards per carry. Team Goals: Making if further in the playoffs this year than last year. Keys to Success: No turnovers, teamwork, and the right a�itude.
LEADERSHIP: From left (in practice jerseys), senior football captains Kyle Cutler, Dylan Arbanas, Ryan Krill, Nick Price and Brian Wise.
GRANT WALTERS/STAMPEDE
16
Sports
Oct. 15, 2010
New coach keeps old traditions
GAME TIME: Coach Enders ponders the play while watching from the side line.
Spotlight: Murray and Morrissey BY GRANT WALTERS
Assistant Editor
After the recent departure of longtime athletic director Larry Edlund, the position has been handed off to a familiar face in Mustang athletics. Jim Murray, a former business
CHLOE WESTLEY/STAMPEDE
BY NICOLE LEFFINGWELL Staff Writer The football team has continued its winning ways this football season, making the playoffs for the fourth year in a row this time under the leadership of a new coach. Coach Mick Enders leads the 6-1 Mustangs into Friday’s Homecoming matchup with Ma�awan. Enders has built strong relationships with the players, as he has been an assistant in the program for ten years. According to senior Justin Hunt, Enders’ familiarity has helped smooth the transition from previous coach Bre� Foerster. “I’ve been on the offensive line for the last four years, so I’ve been with Enders pre�y much every day,” Hunt said. “So having him as a head coach is kind of like having him as an offensive line coordinator, for me. So we joke around and have fun with him all the time. It’s nice to have an old face as our head coach now.” Enders’ history with the program goes back much further, however, during his high
school years, when he wore a Mustang jersey as an offensive lineman under historic coach Bob Knight. For Enders, his football experience taught him to grow up in high school and keep his grades up. Following his high school years, he moved on and played one year at Olivet College. Enders later returned to Portage Central to help coach. He said it has been a smooth transition from last year’s team to this year’s team. “I love the kids, and I have a lot of fun being with them, they keep me young,” Enders said. “For the coach and the team, it’s fun and it has been a good learning experience this season.” Enders stressed that the team is working hard this season and is se�ing its goals high. “Goals for this season are just to get be�er every week,” Enders said. “That’s the one thing we talk to the kids about: ge�ing be�er every day, every week, and playing be�er every game.” With this in mind, Enders hopes to help the team do well in the playoffs this fall.
going to love it later,” Morrissey said. The job of Athletic Director secretary has been around for a long time, but the actual job description is a li�le mysterious. “[The secretary] gathers rosters for all the individual sports, and collects rosters from other schools so they are available at the game. I do field calls from Mr. Murray for coaches from other schools, or referees,” Morrissey said. Both Mrs. Morrissey and Mr. Murray are excited for the new position and the success that they will be a part of by being associated with athletics.
teacher and men’s hockey coach, has taken the reins as the job of athletic director. “[I’m] very excited about the new challenge. I’ve been around athletics all my life, and have loved teaching, so this was just a new challenge,” said Murray. “It’s strange not having to go in first hour with a class full of students. My routine has totally changed [during the day]”. Assisting Jim Murray in the new athletic endeavors is Julie Morrissey. Morrissey is a li�le flustered at the moment, dealing with new assignments and longer hours. “It’s crazy, it’s busy, it’s overwhelming. It’s overwhelming right now, but I love it now, and I’m really
CHLOE WESTLEY/STAMPEDE
NEXT GAME:
Tonight
vs. Mattawan (home at 7 p.m.) Pictured: Aaron King
NEXT GAME:
Tuesday vs. Jenison (away) Pictured: Pictured: Aaron King Courtney Rehm and Erika Nord
PHOTO: COURTESY OF BRIAN MATTHEWS
MUSTANG SPORTS TICKER NEXT GAME:
Tuesday
vs. Kalamazoo Central (away) Pictured: Joe Higashi