Vol 17 issue #2

central

STAMPEDE

Volume 17 Issue 2

Tucker Webb ‘mustache’ you a question, on pg. 7 Nov. 11, 2011

Caught red-handed Administration cracks down on cell phone policy, pg. 2

Godzilla & grandbabies, pg. 4 • Twitter vs. Facebook, pg. 6 • Upcoming concerts in the area, pg. 11 • Swimming to states, pg. 16

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news

Nov. 11, 2011

Cell phone crackdown

BY ALI FULLING

would be impossible to monitor. The administration hopes that News Editor those students who earned the privilege of going out to lunch don’t abuse that privilege and use their time responsibly.

The stricter monitoring of cell phones is now put on The cell phone policy is simple; cell phones should be off the shoulders of the cafeteria supervisors. Most of these and away from the time school starts until the final bell. In past supervisors are interns who are years, students have thought that lunch new to the school. Student teacher was excluded from this policy, and only Gina Mendola is one of the staff since Oct. 21 have administrators started members who now adopted the to make it clear that that is not the case. second occupation of “phone cop.”

According to Assistant Principal “These kids don’t even know Jason Frink, lunch is not a free period. me, and I have to penalize them,” Just like swearing and the dress code, Mendola said. “I do understand the cell phone rule still applies as long as the need for a consistent policy. you are on school grounds during school However, maybe it wouldn’t have hours. been met with such resistance if it The reasoning behind the recent had been enforced from the start of crackdown is student safety, Frink said. the year.”

Cell phones allow students to bully The penalty for having a cell others in a way that cannot be seen phone on but not in use usually or heard by lunchroom supervisors. results in a warning, but the phone Situations of text and cyberbullying can be confiscated until the end of occur often, and the administrators the day. If it is in use, the phone decided the only way to combat it is to Ali Fulling/STAMPEDE can be taken away and held until a stop it before it can even occur. parent comes and picks it up, and Bullying via text and the Internet 2:50’s can be issued. in this school is reported to range from As much the policy is flawed, accusations of promiscuity all the way to it will be reevaluated as technology continues to play a bigger death threats. part in the normal school day. For now, this is the only solution “Most kids use their phones responsibly,” Frink said. to the cell phone problem.

“Unfortunately, some don’t, and we can’t open that avenue “It’s sad that we have to resort to this because technology that could allow in bullying that we can’t control.” keeps getting better, but at the same time behavior is going Off campus, the same rule does not apply, seeing as it downhill,” Frink said.

Why aren’t we

Broadcast lab not being utilized; digital signage expected soon

BY ALI FULLING

News Editor

Next to the journalism lab on the second floor is an untapped resource that few students know about. The broadcast lab is yet to be used for student purposes, but clubs and organizations throughout the school district hope to access it this school year.

As of now, there are no plans to do video announcements, although certain clubs hope that the administration will change its mind. Student Council, which relies heavily on informing the students of events, worries that traditional announcements will not be enough, especially because of a new sign policy that restricts where leaders can advertise news to the student body. “[Video announcements] would be more effective than the regular announcements,” said Chelsea Williams, Student Council parliamentarian. “People can tune out a voice, but someone’s face speaking to you on a big screen is hard to ignore.”

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Brief

in

Sylvan offers practice ACT

Sylvan Learning Center is offering free practice ACT tests for the rest of the school year. The practice tests begin at 9 a.m. and end at 1 p.m. Currently, the testing dates in November, December and January are full, but there is a wait list in the chance that someone cancels. If interested in any testing date call 269-327-5237 or email Portage@SylvanWestMichigan.com to register.

Available Testing Dates: Feb. 4 March 3 April 7 May 5

Bowling tryouts next week Tryouts for the bowling team will be Monday and Tuesday at 3:30 p.m. at Airway Lanes on Portage Road. These tryouts are for both the men’s and women’s bowling teams. If interested, make sure to have a physical on file in the office prior to tryouts.

All skill levels are encouraged to tryout.

Filmmaking competition returns The Teen Filmmaker Festival returns to Kalamazoo for the ninth year in a row. If interested in submitting film, it must be a DVD or a full-quality Quicktime video. Films submitted by teens will be viewed by a panel of judges and prizes will be awarded for the best films in seven categories. Audience members will also vote on their favorites, and the film with the most votes will win the People’s Choice Award. Entries are due by 5 p.m. on Jan. 21 to Teen Services, Kalamazoo Public Library, 315 Rose St.

Parent-teacher conferences Rather than focus on the broadcast lab at the time, administrators are setting their sights on getting the digital signage up and running. Digital signage would use the flat screen televisions in the Commons, by the Welcome Center, and outside of Vinnie’s.

The good majority of the content on the screens will be student related, but the district will also have access to the announcements as well as local notifications like weather.

The administration plans to be in charge of the digital signage, but all clubs and organizations will have access to it.

“All clubs will be able to create content,” Assistant Principal Jason Frink said. “ It will be an ongoing process to determine what content is appropriate and how many slides are appropriate at a given time though.”

The digital signage is never expected to replace conventional announcements, and it is unknown when it will be available for club use.

“My hope is that some of the end-of-the-day announcement interruptions, such as practices being rescheduled due to weather, could be replaced by digital signage,” Frink said.

Parent-teacher conferences will be held Wednesday from 5 to 8:45 p.m. and Thursday from 2 to 4 p.m. and 5 to 8:15 p.m. in the gymnasium. All parents and guardians are encouraged to attend in order to discuss their child’s progress one-on one with his or her teachers.

Come to the Cabaret The annual Broadway Cabaret, performed by the Concert Choir and Chamber Singers, is being held on Friday, Nov. 18, and Saturday, Nov. 19, from 7 to 10 p.m. and Sunday, Nov. 20 from 2 to 5 p.m. in the auditorium. Tickets are available at the Welcome Center. The price is $10 for students and $13 for adults.

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news

Nov. 11, 2011

It’s not easy being green

Llama drama

New building creates new goals — and Fundraiser challenges — for Environmental Club focuses on

BY TUCKER WEBB alpaca for View Editor Peruvian family

300 words on Alex Harning

BY LAUREN AMMAR

Staff Writer

Moving to a new place can be challenging, but senior Alex Harning made the transition easier by involving himself in things he was passionate about – specifically sports such as football and basketball.

“I’ve been playing sports since I was 3, and I’ve tried almost all of them – soccer,

Courtesy of Evironmental Club

As we progress further and further into the 21st century, it is becoming abundantly clear that the environment needs protecting. And just like Captain Planet, the Environmental Club is here to help.

With a new school comes newfound aspirations for the Environmental Club.

Already the club has begun work on the school’s desperate need for a recycling program.

After hitting some snags along the way, the Environmental Club was able to get their recycling program approved by administration, and as well as using the profits for future “green” efforts. Environmental Club leader Chris Lane believes that this will help both the club and the school.

“Between the paper and pop bottles we could make at least $100 a month, which the Environmental Club would re-invest most of into green technology for the school, such as more recycling bins for the rooms, and possibly a trash compactor,” Lane said.

As of right now, the Environmental Club has contracted for recycling pick-up through Cereal City Recycling, and they are taking plastic bottles to Meijer. The bins for the hallways and classrooms are in the process of being ordered and should arrive soon.

Although only a couple months into the school it would to just grow vegetables from the same year, the Environmental Club has already land. So in areas where trees are cut down to taken large steps to making Portage Central make more room for the cows, they have to more environmentally friendly. cut down a lot of forest, for a comparatively But the Environmental Club’s goals don’t smaller size of food. end with recycling. Senior Cole Boyer, a new “It takes less acreage of crops to support a member to the Environmental Club, non-meat diet,” Lane said. has big hopes for the group.

Boyer also hopes that “I hope we spread the Environmental Club awareness and get will be able to do as many people some landscaping involved as on the new school’s possible. At the barren lawns in the very least, we spring by planting need to make some varieties people more of wildflowers, accountable constructing for their birdhouses and trash.” planting more Another priority native flowers and other for the Environmental plants.

Club is No-MeatWith ambitious goals and Mondays. Some members a collection of great minds with of the Environmental new ideas, the Environmental Club have decided to not Club is rapidly becoming one eat meat on Mondays of the more active clubs and in order to save trees. is always looking to expand T-shirt Time: The club spreads the word of When an animal, such good, green habits through its t-shirts and and spread environmental as a cow eats grass, 90 members. awareness. percent of the energy The Environmental Club from the grass is lost to heat or waste, so it meets twice a month in Room 3114, with the takes more acreage to sustain a few cows than next meeting on Nov. 30. hockey, baseball… but football and basketball are my favorites,” Harning said.

Harning previously lived in Troy, a suburb of Detroit, and he still visits there often.

He moved to Portage at the end of his 8th-grade year.

“I ended up going to Central Middle for the last eight days,” Harning said. “I felt out of the loop and very anxious when I first moved here, but sports definitely helped me adjust.”

Harning started playing football his freshman year, and it helped him meet new people and make new friends.

“Because of the summer practices, by the time school started, I already had a lot of good friends,” Harning said.

By sophomore year, Harning was on the varsity football team. It was a new and exciting

experience to be able to play and practice with upperclassmen, and Harning’s hard work and talent made him a good contribution to the team.

“I’m wide receiver and defensive end,” Harning said. “And sophomore year, I started on both offense and defense.”

Harning is also on the varsity basketball team and enjoys it just as much as football.

“I first started playing in 3rd grade and I have always just had a thing for it,” Harning said. “I have met so many people throughout the state and nation with basketball, and I stay in touch with my teammates and the coaches.”

So what are some of the reasons athletics are so important to Harning?

“Sports give me something to do. They help me stay out of trouble.”

BY MALLORY DUNCAN Staff Writer Inspired by a recent school trip to Peru, Spanish teacher Lindsay Steenbergen has initiated a fundraiser to help buy an alpaca for a Peruvian family.

The llama will help the family in more ways than simply being an addition to the family. It can help irrigate the farmland and also provide 12 pounds of wool per year to be fashioned into everything from scarves to sweaters, contributing to the family’s meager income.

“Last year, when we spent 10 days in Peru, I knew I wanted to give back,” Steenbergen said. “I felt an attachment I didn’t have before the trip.”

The Peru trip served as a way to open her eyes about the severe poverty and living conditions Peruvians face.

“I love the idea of purchasing an animal that can help a family in years to come,” she said.

Steenbergen is currently selling Pop-Tarts in her room for $1 but some students who took the trip with Steenbergen last summer plan to take the fundraiser even further.

Seniors Amy Ruimveld, Derrick Rohs and Ashley Elliston want to start a bake sale in the upcoming weeks, with all profits benefiting the cause.

“The trip to Peru really opened my eyes and made me want to help out,” Rohs said.

Instead of working through World Vision or other international companies to send money or support, this fundraiser will send a live animal to the family. It makes the contribution more real and those who donate are able to see the positive effects the llama will have on the family.

“I like being able to give something living and I love animals,” Steenbergen said.

If you want to be a part of this llama drama and help raise money, you can buy a Pop-Tart from Ms. Steenbergen in Room 1105.

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news

Nov. 11, 2011

Geckos, Godzilla and grandbabies

BY TAYLOR FLECK

Focus Editor

“Godzilla & Nelson” doesn’t have the same ring to it as “Romeo & Juliet,” but for senior Dagny Kaspar and science teacher James Carrow, it’s music to their ears.

In addition to their common interest for biology and science, these two enthusiastic individuals also share love for geckos, and earlier this month, they decided to try and breed their lovely lizards, Godzilla and Nelson, to create even more spotted reptiles.

Kaspar has bred geckos at her house multiple times, and the process continues to amaze her every time she goes through it.

“From watching the eggs develop inside the female… to watching the babies hatch, it is a truly fascinating process,” Kaspar said. “I have so much fun doing it.”

The idea to mate the geckos started with a discussion in Carrow’s classroom, she said.

“I would always come to Carrow’s class [last year] and tell him about all the breeding stuff, and he thought it was pretty cool,” Kaspar said. “When I found out his gecko was

Giddy

for Geckos: Senior Dagny Kaspar plays with Nelson, her pet Gecko, and science teacher James Carrow’s gecko, Godzilla.

Amy Ruimveld/STAMPEDE female, I asked if we could breed them.”

Carrow was very interested in the idea and agreed to give it a shot.

“We were talking about our geckos and I have known that she has tried to breed geckos in the past,” Carrow said. ”We thought it would be a cool thing to try and do.”

To get things rolling, Kaspar agreed to bring in her 2-year-old leopard gecko, Nelson, to be temporarily housed in Room 3115 along with Carrow’s gecko, Godzilla.

Since the first attempt, Godzilla and Nelson have been put together five times and

have yet to mate.

“Godzilla has never been put with another gecko before, so it’s taking a while for her to get used to Nelson,” Kaspar said. “We hope they will mate soon.”

Once the geckos successfully mate, it will take anywhere from 35 to 60 days for the babies to hatch.

According to Kaspar, Godzilla will ideally lay seven to eight eggs, and she hopes at least three or four of those eggs will be fertile and hatch.

As for what will be done with all the

baby lizards, Carrow hopes to keep a few and possibly sell the rest. Carrow also hopes his students will seize the chance to take a “hands- on” approach with the geckos.

“This is a great opportunity for my students to be involved with something you don’t see in the classroom every day,” Carrow said.

During the process of mating and incubation all the way to watching the lizards hatch, both Kaspar and Carrow plan to keep the utmost enthusiasm and anxiously await the day when the babies will finally hatch.

Friday, November 11, 2011 – Science/Nursing/Math AQDay Friday, November 18, 2011 – AQDay Friday, December 9, 2011 – Leadership AQDay Saturday, January 28, 2012 – 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 visits 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

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Nov. 11, 2011 Cell phone battle is like fighting a losing war For some time, educators have been fighting a constant battle with students over their cell phones. Recently, there has been a crackdown on students who use their cell phones during their lunch period, due to safety concerns. The

administration hopes that this measure will cut down on the amount of cyberbullying.

The staff of the Central Stampede believes that at a certain point, this battle becomes pointless. While bullying is a legitimate concern, people who intend to bully someone will bully no matter

fiveon five 1 2 3 4 5

Haley Templeton, 9th

our view

what the circumstance, and these new measures will do nothing but hinder the process temporarily.

The lunch hour is a time for students to relax, take a break from their studies and recharge themselves for the second half of the day. If it is okay that

Twitter.

Twitter. It is straight to the point. Facebook is all drama.

What’s your favorite video game?

Just Dance.

“Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2.”

Facebook. I don’t care what people are doing every second of their lives.

“Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2,” if I had to pick one.

Mr. Lancaster and Mr. Badders. A match made in heaven.

Senora Moss and Senorita Steebergen.

Would people recycle if there were bins in the hallways?

Yes, I do.

Yes, because the bins are there to put things in.

Who do you root for? The Bros or the Dream Team?

The Bros.

What?

take the time to stop class and reprimand someone texting actually distract the class from being productive. So instead of making phones a much larger problem than they are, administrators should consider ways to work with the students and their texting addictions instead of quitting cold turkey.

upperclassmen use their cell phones in their cars during lunch, why not those in the Commons?

Overall, the war against cell phones is a pointless endeavor, and at this point, cell phones have become a part of the school routine.

Many times, teachers who

Connor Gabriel, 10th Alyssa Wiener, 11th

Which do you prefer?

Facebook or Twitter?

Which two teachers Mr. Carrow and Mr. McNeal. make BFFs?

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Yeah, because people are lazy and won’t go find one.

I have no idea what that means.

Brad Dillard, 12th

Mrs. Mills

Facebook.

Facebook, but I don’t have either.

“Viva Pinata: V.I.P.”

“Mario Party” on the Wii.

Lancaster and Badders.

[No response]

I suppose.

Absolutely!

Neither. They’re both terrible. I root for the legendary Jungle Berries.

I don’t understand this question...

Stampede Staff Amy Ruimveld Kyna Garrett Editors-in-Chief Ali Fulling....................................News Editor

Assistant Editors/Staff Writers: Hira Asghar, Rachel Bates, Lauren Ammar, Jessica Heimonen, Katie Drews, Mallory Duncon, Grant Walters.

Photographer: Nicole Leffingwell Business Manager: Tyler Harper Adviser: Cheryl Braford

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.

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.

Tucker Webb...............................View Editor Taylor Fleck.................................Focus Editor James Ketelaar...........................Vibe Editor Brett Kaufman............................Sports Editor

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: 2216

The Central Stampede 8135 South Westnedge Ave. Portage, MI 49002

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Nov. 11, 2011

RS

Facebook is for friends, not followers Recently, I have observed many foolhardy the earth frequently ask, “What’s the point young Facebookers converting to Twitter. of Facebook?” Good question. Facebook is a Far from being “cool” or “trendy,” it’s really wonderful way to keep in touch with family quite sad. What kind of a world do we live in, and friends. It is also the number one way when society has such a short attention span to stay up-to-date with daily happenings. that after years of committing to one social Twitterers who claim Twitter to be more current network, even die-hard Facebook loyalists are than Facebook are sadly mistaken. I for one crossing over to the know a certain dark side? somebody, Twitter is who will go overrated.

Like u n n a m e d any other curious due to the There are more than 650 Facebooker, I too potential for have briefly delved mockery, who million active users. into the world of just recently Twitter, only to be found out that One in every 13 forced to read about Gary Coleman people on Earth is on the daily existence of has died, thus people I don’t care throwing the Facebook. about. What Johnny notion that had for breakfast Twitter is more 71.2 percent of all USA this morning does modern in Internet users are on Facebook. the proverbial not concern me, nor does Sally’s horribly trash.

It is the second largest unoriginal experience T h o s e at the mall buying who use website by traffic behind a new pair of shoes.

Facebook Google.

Equally irrelevant know that it is the fact that is not only Kim Kardashian is a great way currently at the gas station. to communicate with friends and distant I have had a revelation. Twitter is merely relatives, it’s also very resourceful. Want a substitute for reality, a place people go to homework help? Ask the people of Facebook; post about their lives in an attempt to convince you’ll be sure to get a reply. Forgot where an themselves that they actually have lives. event is taking place? Tell Facebook. Replies, Twitterites use Twitter to complain about their or “comments,” are all arranged in an easily miseries in life while avoiding snide remarks comprehensible column. through comments on Facebook. Twitter’s So, for those Facebookers who have “followers” consist of people who feel the already switched to Twitter: just because the need to share their opinions, think they have dark side has cookies doesn’t mean they’re interesting things to say, and those who just good cookies. And to those who have yet to need a new place to whine. fall victim to what the scourge of society has Facebook, on the other hand, is much deemed the “Digital Service Of The Year,” more interactive. Unlike its unworthy please refrain from doing so. Side effects counterpart, Facebook actually falls under to using Twitter may include confusion, the category of a “social network.” Facebook headaches, loss of vision, dizziness and allows you to chat with others, comment on hallucinations. and “like” statuses, plan events, and create Hira Asghar is a writer for the groups.

Central Stampede.

People who have fallen off the face of

Facebook Factoids:

US

Twitter is #trending

Hello @StudentsofPC. The Facebook vs.

Twitter debate is one that goes on every day in our school, but has never been addressed in print, so here it is: Twitter is better, Twitter is now.

Twitter is a more personal and less obnoxious way of sharing what’s going on in your life. You don’t have thousands of “friends” whose activity gets thrown on your newsfeed; you have a smaller circle of people and organizations that you “follow.”

Granted, it sounds creepier, but it allows you to sort through the randoms and only see what your real friends are doing.

In this way, Twitter makes it so that you only read the tweets of people you follow.

That way you don’t get the “I <3 my boyfriend sooo much” status of that random girl in your math class.

Tweeting also allows you to connect to people in all parts of the world, but only when you want to. When you hashtag a phrase, it immediately puts you on a feed with people who did the same. You can then click on your hashtag and see opinions from those you don’t follow.

As opposed to Facebook, Twitter allows you to connect to celebrities and companies far easier. Through their tweets, you can find out when your favorite singer is performing in town or get deals from stores you shop in all the time. It’s a quick and easy way to advertise and almost all companies and organizations have become tweeters.

Twitter is a great place for humor or inspiration as well. Many Twitter accounts are dedicated solely to making you laugh. In fact, @Lord_Voldemort7 and @_Snape_ dominate the trending (popular) topics more than

anyone else because of their dry, often Harry Potter related humor.

Compared to Facebook, Twitter for cell phones is a lot simpler, even if you don’t have a smart phone or an app for it. You can easily send and recieve tweets. If someone tags you in a tweet, it will be sent via text. Also, if you want to recieve your best friend’s tweets, they can be sent to your phone as well.

U n l i k e most tweeting n00bs believe, you can contact anyone on Twitter. There’s a messaging area that works just like that of Facebook. Also, tagging people in a tweet is a more instant contact than just writing on someone’s wall.

When it comes to photos and videos, I’ll admit Facebook has the edge.

You can’t post hundreds of pictures on Twitter, but that also means you don’t have to see those albums of little freshman taking mirror pictures. For those perfect, quick photos you capture, tweeting a twitpic is a lot more effective. #Letsbehonest, I know some of the people I’m trying to convince are thinking “I’ll never get a Twitter.” I understand because I used to be one of those people. But think about it, a few years ago you all had Myspaces and would not dare change for Facebook. Look at yourselves now, poking and posting up a storm. As time goes on, social networking sites are going to change. Either you can roll with the changes or you can be that 30-year-old creep that’s still updating their status.

Twitter Talk:

# (hashtags): used to tag tweets on certain topics.

RT: retweeting someone else’s tweet.

@: tagging someone in a tweet.

TT: Trending Topics on Twitter

Ali Fulling is the News Editor for the Central Stampede.

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Nov. 11, 2011

NO-SHAVE NOVEMBER EDITION Okay, gents (and maybe some ladies too), we are now well into No-Shave November, and most of you know where your potential beard stands. As a purveyor of beard knowledge, I shall guide you through what you should do and should not to do with your newfound face-marmot.

THE DOS:

THE DON’TS:

1.

Neck Beard (See Fig. 3)

Mutton Chops (See Fig. 1) All great men in history have had Mutton Chops at one point in their lives (Martin Van Buren, Ambrose Burnside and Wolverine to name a few). Mutton Chops are the mark of a true manly-man. One who wears Mutton Chops is a man to be feared. He knows that when he has the bravery to rock the Chops, no one will mess with him as long as he lives. And if some unfortunate soul does mess with him, the consequences will never be the same.

Handlebar Mustache (See Fig. 2) If you have that upper lip hair growing in nicely, I suggest the classic Handlebar Mustache. There are few things classier than a nice Handlebar ’stache. Any man with a nice Handlebar Mustache demands respect without even opening his mouth. It’s like having a medal of honor, on your face. It shows that you know the complexities of life, but don’t care because you are too busy sitting next to your fireplace with your rather large copy of Charles Dickens’ “Great Expectations.”

2.

Some people are not blessed with facial hair, and are instead gifted with neck hair. I really wouldn’t call it a gift; it’s more of a curse. That leaves them with only one option for their facial hair. A Neck Beard, or a Neard. But let me tell you, a Neck Beard is never a good idea. Never. Friends don’t let friends grow Neck Beards.

The Scruff (See Fig. 4)

3.

4.

For the month of November, it is perfectly okay to look scruffy. It is expected for most high schoolers.

Your beards are not quite ready to be seen by the naked eye so they conceal themselves inside your face. But after November, the scruff is never a good look. I’m not talking 5 o’clock shadow here; that’s not my beef.

When your facial hair hits that point when it is a few centimeters long but doesn’t go any further, and there are obvious blank patches about your jaw, it’s time to shave. Unless you are super busy and forget to shave.

Like me. Then it’s fine.

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focus

Nov. 11, 2011

Friends, jokes and candy

Teachers share stories of friendship

The The Three Jokesters Musketeers

BY AMY RUIMVELD Editor-in-Chief

Other educators have formed close relationships over the years, especially history teacher Mark Sutherland and media specialist Sara Brown.

High school is the place where you can meet some of your closest friends – and for some teachers, this happened when they returned to high school to teach. Teaching year after year, with neighboring classrooms, teachers begin to form close bonds with their co-workers.

Las Mejores Amigas

Spanish teachers Bonnie Moss and Lindsay Steenbergen met eight years ago after becoming classroom neighbors in the old building. Sitting down with the two of them, it’s obvious that their friendship is genuine and heartwarming as they share many anecdotes from over the years.

How long have you known each other? And how did you meet?

What is something you do outside of school together?

Moss: We work out at 5:15 a.m.

Steenbergen: During the summer, we go out to lunch a lot.

Moss: It’s weird, because we don’t see each other every day, like we would during the school year.

How did you become so close?

Photo Courtesy of Lindsay Steenbergen

What is your favorite memory together?

Steenbergen: We went on the Europe trip a few years ago, and Steenbergen: during the trip, we went We see each other to a stained glass cathedral every day. called Sainte Chapelle in Moss: France, just the two of us And we have as a little break from the similar interests. students during the trip.

Steenbergen: Moss: For me, there We’re also the have been some really same age, and we big events in the past 10 teach the same years, and Lindsay has subject. always been there ­— at Moss: We’ve my wedding, when my son also had travels was born, she was there together; those are when Elizabeth was born, experiences we and when my father-in-law don’t share with passed away she was there. anyone else.

Steenbergen: She’s always there.

Photo Courtesy of Bonnie Moss Plus, the more Do you speak you hear about the Viva España: Moss and Steenbergen traveled Spanish or English other’s personal life, to Spain together with a group of students. together? the more involved Moss: English you become.

Moss: I don’t know what I would do Steenbergen: But we use Spanish without you here. when we don’t want people to understand us.

Sutherland: 12 years.

Brown: On my first day of teaching at PC, I had lunch with a group of teachers, and he and I had lunch together every day for many years after that. I guess I thought he was a dork, but I guess I was a dork, too, because I sat down with him!

What do you do outside of school?

Sutherland: I’m a friend of her husband’s, she’s a friend of my wife’s, so we mostly go to each other’s houses, and we spend time with her kids and family.

Brown: At school, we tell each other jokes and razz each other, but outside of school I visit him and his wife, and he’s even babysat my kids.

What is your favorite memory together?

Sutherland: She’s always been a wonderful companion on the Washington, D.C., trips I take with Student Council. She’s really good at making me laugh around the kids when things get stressful — she’s really funny.

Brown: One time, we had a student act as a runner between us — we were sending each other practical jokes. We found a fake fingernail on the ground, and were sending it back and forth, using the student as a runner.

Many have seen this group of teachers goofing off and laughing together, whether in their classrooms, the hallway or after school on the golf cart directing traffic. Science teachers Chris Czuk, Jason Badders and Eric Lancaster are that trio of friends, and often bring smiles to many faces with their antics.

How did you guys meet/become so close?

Badders: Lan and I taught the same subject in the same room my first year of teaching. Czuk and I took a trip to Colorado to climb some 14ers [mountains that exceed 14,000 feet].

Czuk: We had the same lunch about seven-ish years ago.

Lancaster: I agree with the answers the other two gave.

What do you do together outside of school?

Badders: We like to exercise and watch sports. Czuk, Lan and I trained for a half marathon together. We also travel to several sporting events a year. We hang out less and less as our kids get older.

Czuk: We just kind of hang out and goof off. It’s definitely different now that we have kids.

Lancaster: We watch sports, fish. We used to play disc golf.

Who wears the pants in your relationship?

Badders: I am definitely a hero to both Lan and Czuk. They really look up to me.

Czuk: Badders.

Lancaster: Badders thinks he does, and we just let him or else he’ll whine like a little girl.

Two words to describe the other two?

Badders: Czuk is ridiculously intelligent, and Lan is loyal and funny.

Czuk Well, I’m the nice guy. Badders is the puppetmaster, and Lancaster is the violent one. You can expect a punch from him.

Lancaster: Badders is opinionated and stubborn and Czuk is well-mannered and smart.

9

focus

Nov. 11, 2011

Into the ‘Darksoul’ of Remearis Brown Wordclay publishes a sophomore’s composition

BY KATIE DREWS

Staff Writer

First becoming interested in writing around 5th-grade, 16-year-old author Remearis Brown composed his first piece of unpublished literature. Titled “Psi-Prophecy,” it was basically his own version of Anthony Horrowitz’s “Gatekeeper” series.

“Darksoul: Journey to the Heart” is the title of the first of many published books to come in Brown’s recently-written series.

As Brown describes his own novel, the action-adventure story is about two friends, targeted by an anti-government plot. The group wants to bring back a lost race of people who have powers that could be used to raise an army for conquest; the two main characters, Rem and Chelsea, can’t let that happen.

Eventually, Brown is hoping for

eight books in the series. His second book is finished now and will be released around Christmas-time.

“Darksoul: Journey to the Heart” is on sale at amazon.com and wordclay.com. Brown is trying to get his book into Barnes & Noble for sale, and he hopes for quick results.

Brown’s novel has its own website, darksoulofficialweb.weebly.com. You can also find it on the “Darksoul: Journey to the Heart” Facebook and Twitter pages.

His novel took about a full school year to write and was influenced by a student that goes to Portage Central.

“Actually, a student that goes here recommended for me to start writing to relieve some stress,” Brown said, “and it worked.”

Hoping for some positive feedback from his readers, Brown continues to work on his third novel now and is hoping to have it

finished as soon as possible.

“What helped me through it is that I knew I had a story to finish, and I wanted to help people enjoy it and look forward to its release,” he said.

Let’s Write: Remearis Brown (left) Nicole Leffingwell/STAMPEDE

wrote the novel “Darksoul: Journey to The Heart” (right)

Hey there Mustangs!

This year’s annual Breadlift will be held on next Saturday (November 19th) at 8:00 a.m. in the Commons Area. We will be having a competition to see which team can raise the most money! Students are able to collect donations until 2:00 p.m. and each member of the winning team will get a $10 gift card.

Also, don't forget to get your Breadlift t-shirt! They’re $15, and will be sold the morning of until they run out. This fundraiser benefits the March of Dimes Organization to help save premature babies. Hope to see you there!

Save those babies!

Love,Your Student Council

focus

10

Nov. 11, 2011

10 random facts (that will totally blow your mind) 4.

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1.

10.

5.

2.

6.

3.

7.

The Central Stampede has gathered some interesting facts with a twist on the fall season. Here are ten random, fresh facts to blow your mind!

The turkeys typically shown in Thanksgiving pictures are not the same as the domestic turkeys most people eat at Thanksgiving.

The colors red, yellow and brown are in leaves all year long and only become exposed when the green chlorophyll disappears in the fall.

Caffeine boosts memory.

No corn plants exist in the wild.

Cats usually “meow” to communicate with humans, not each other.

There are bugs in peanut butter.

Your nose runs when it’s cold because the blood vessels get more blood to keep your nose warm.

91% of Americans eat turkey on Thanksgiving.

- Facts compiled by Lauren Ammar

Mandeep Multani/Special to STAMPEDE

The human brain will learn any word it hears 160 times over 14 minutes.

Every time you sneeze some of your brain cells die.

!"#$$%&'(&') $%5'$7$%89 !"#$#%!"#$%& '()*+,-./-0*)+1.23,4.564((1 Watch Tricia’s video vimeo.com/kalamazoovalley

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THE ‘90s... ...TO THE MAX!

BY JAMES KETELAAR

11

vibe

Nov. 11, 2011

Vibe Editor

Last year, as a writer for the Stampede, I wrote an article about how Hollywood needs to stop remaking ‘80s movies and to leave the past alone. Surprisingly, no one in Hollywood read or listened to my article. A remake of “Footloose” came out last month,

and remakes of ‘80s movies show no signs of stopping. That is, at least, until we run out of ‘80s ideas. Yes, soon every movie anyone cared about in the ‘80s will be exasperated, and we will need to branch out. The next obvious choice? The ‘90s. So, Hollywood, I

guess I’m saying if you can’t beat them, join them, and I’ve written a few pitches to use at your leisure when you decide to ruin the rest of my childhood. Just make sure the paycheck you write me is big enough to fill the hole in my soul.

Upcoming concerts Looking to get your groove on? Take a look at our handy guide to all the concerts coming to the area in the next few months.

Van Andel: Katy Perry (Dec. 1) -- $65 Brad Paisley (Jan. 12) -- $60

Fox Theatre (Detroit) “Pokemon”

The Original: If you don’t know what Pokemon is, you have been living under a rock since 1996.

The Remake: A violent, dark, monster-horror movie about one man’s determination and drive to catch all the horrid creatures that have overtaken the world. He must study and learn everything he can about these monsters, to master them and catch them all.

“Power Rangers”

The Original: A bunch of teenagers in bright, colorful costumes overact and fight some dudes in rubber suits commanded by a big evil guy in a rubber suit.

The Remake: “Expendables”-esque big-budget action/martial arts monster movie, in which a group of competing martial arts experts meet a powerful alien and must join forces to save the world from CG monsters and ninjas.

Demi Lovato (Nov. 16) -- $60 Director: Guillermo Del Toro Starring: Leo DiCaprio as Ash Vin Diesel as Brock Scarlett Johansson as Misty Robert DeNiro as Giovanni Olivia Wilde as Jesse Owen Wilson as James Danny DeVito as Meowth Charlie Day as Pikachu

The Fillmore (Detroit) Mastadon (Nov. 16) -- $58 Wilco (Dec. 10) -- $55

Palace of Auburn Hills (Auburn Hills)

The Crofoot (Pontiac) Chris Carrabba with

Starring: Jean-Claude Van Damme as Red Ranger Lucy Liu as Yellow Ranger Uma Thurman as Pink Ranger Terry Crewes as Black Ranger Paul Walker as Blue Ranger Jason Statham as Green/White Ranger William Shatner as Zordon Christopher Walken as the voice of Alpha

Dashboard Confessional (Nov. 18) -- $25

Royal Oak Music Theater (Royal Oak) The Devil Wears Prada (Dec. 17) -- $56

Clutch Cargo’s / iLounge (Pontiac)

“Legends of the Hidden Temple”

The Remake: An “Indiana Jones”-type adventure movie, with world famous adventurers like The Purple Parrot and The Red Jaguar gathering together to help newbie Blue Barracuda find the Lost Shrine of the Silver Monkey. All the while, they are hunted by a cult calling themselves “The Temple Guards,” ruled by brutal and violent leader Olmec.

Owl City (Nov. 18) -- $36 The Verve Pipe (Dec. 23) -- $15

Guns N’ Roses (Dec. 1) -- $87 Kanye West and Jay-Z (The Throne tour) (Nov. 26) -- $50

Co-Directors: Michael Bay and JJ Abrams

The Original: A game show on Nickelodeon where you talked to a giant foam head, answered trivia, and eventually built a monkey statue in an obstacle course while dodging a bunch of guys in creepy masks.

Intersection (Grand Rapids)

Simple Plan (Nov. 23) -- $68 Director: Stephen Spielberg Starring: Michael Cera as Blue Barracuda Sean Connery as Red Jaguar Steve Buscemi as Silver Snake Zooey Deschanel as Purple Parrot Christian Slater as Orange Iguana Tom Cruise as Green Monkey Mark Strong as Olmec

The Magic Bag (Detroit) Deer Tick (Nov. 15) -- $68

12

Nov. 11, 2011

Human Centipede 2: a staff experiment On Deadline Day for this issue of the Central Stampede, several brave souls from the staff sat down and watched a little independent film called “The Human Centipede 2.” Generally,

“WHY WAS THIS FILM MADE?!

That is all.”

-Tucker Webb

“It was disgusting and horrifying. I don’t know anyone who could imagine this.”

the staff received it as one of the most horrifying things any of them had ever witnessed. Here is what each staff member had to say about the feature:

“It was gross, unrealistic and horrifying.”

-Tyler Harper

“I cried. I think “Worst idea ever. In it’s ruined my the times I wasn’t thoughts for the cowering in fear, I was next month or so.” trying to stop myself from throwing up.”

-Kyna Garrett

“Absolutely disgusting.

Also, absolutely hysterical. I was laughing through the vomit.”

-James Ketelaar

-Ali Fulling

-Hira Asghar

Horoscopes As predicted by staff psychic James Ketelaar CAPRICORN (22 December – 20 January): A fat man in a Batman costume will give you the best haircut of your life.

AQUARIUS (21 January –19 February):

ends, you will be trapped in a bathroom.

ever exposed to temperatures below 40° F, you will become an apple pie.

ARIES (21 March – 19 April): Watch out for flaming gumballs. They shall rain down upon your head.

your true love while wearing red shoes. However, you will also get nails stuck in your feet while wearing red shoes. Toss-up, I suppose.

GEMINI (21 May – 20 June): When the world

This horoscope is brought to you by the letter ‘Q’. Like the quicksand you will be stuck in.

PISCES (20 February – 20 March): If you are

TAURUS (20 April – 20 May): You will meet

CANCER (June 21 to July 21): Stay away from Garrett. You know who you are.

LEO (22 July – 22 August): That book you’re

reading? Someone really cute is also reading it.

Now you have a way to talk and relate to them!

RUNWAY to

HALLWAY

Mustangs strut their stuff With the chilly weather rolling, students are adding fashion to comfort with these latest fall styles.

Text By Kyna Garrett Photos By Nicole Leffingwell

will be an intense danger the next time you visit a retirement home. Be warned.

LIBRA (23 September – 22 October): You

will find great fortune in either the stock market or big burlap sacks of potatoes in the coming years. But the other one will bring your demise.

Choose wisely.

SCORPIO (23 October – 21 November): You

won’t be electrocuted in the next month. Probably.

SAGITTARIUS (22 November to 21 December): He sees you at the tower.

from

Sophomore Caroline Sampson struts a simple grey dress with a white jacket in her cozy, sparkly boots.

VIRGO (23 August – 22 September): Squids

Senior Eric Drew is pulling off a casual outfit with faded jeans and a comfortable black long-sleeved shirt.

Senior Brenna Reder shows off her style, by dressing up black leggings with a flowy cardigan. A comfy, but edgy outfit.

13

vibe

Nov. 11, 2011

Let’s get gaming November’s best new video game releases

BY TUCKER WEBB

View Editor

November is usually a decent month for new video game releases, but this year there are nearly too many to count. So for all of you who aren’t busy playing “Modern Warfare 3” this week, here is a rundown of the most important upcoming releases. Prepare your wallets.

TODAY “Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim” / Xbox 360, PS3, PC The fifth installment in the Elder Scrolls series looks to be perhaps the best, with overhauled game play and a giant immersive game world. Using “Radiant Story” technology, creatures and humans in the game all operate independently making it feel as if they act and respond out of free will.

This and other improvements I am sure will make for another classic from this series.

Nov. 15 “Assassins Creed: Revelations” /Xbox 360, PS3, PC The fourth game in the Assassins Creed series looks as if it will be the greatest so far. As one of the most plot-driven titles on consoles today, Revelations has high expectations to live up to, and so far it looks as if they are exceeding on all fronts. Game play is much of the same this time around. With a few new tools for taking out your enemies with brutal efficiency, and an expansive map, the single player mode will keep players busy for quite some time.

“Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary” /Xbox 360 Although this isn’t technically a new game, 343 Industries have given it new life. All of the levels have been recreated perfectly with the updated graphics from Halo: Reach. But, for all of you purists out there, you can switch the graphics back to the way they looked ten years ago. The classic multiplayer experience has been brought back with all of the original maps. Better yet, the game (which I would have gladly purchased for the standard $60) is only $40.

November 18 “Minecraft”

/PC The indie game that took the internet by storm last year in its Alpha and Beta phases is finally finished. But with a healthy community of modders there will always be something to keep you coming back. I have spent many days digging through caverns and avoiding the dastardly exploding Creepers in this addicting Sandbox building game in its Beta form. I fear for my social life when the final game is released.

November 20 “The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword” /Wii It’s a Zelda game. “Enough said,” for most. But for those of you who need some convincing, I will personally vouch for this one. I played it at Comic-Con, and it was absolutely fantastic. The Wii Motion-Plus gave the game a new feel by allowing the player to control the actual motion of the sword.

I lived my childhood dream of being Link, if only for 20 minutes. And like with every Zelda game, there are new items, new monsters and puzzles galore.

Assassins Creed: Revelations

Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary

Minecraft

The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword

The Walking Dead Season 2

Starring Andrew Lincoln and Jon Bernthal

BY JAMES KETELAAR AND TUCKER WEBB

Last year, “The Walking Dead” was the most successful series on AMC. The ratings were double or triple that of the channel’s other successful series, “Mad Men” and “Breaking Bad.” So fans were understandably confused and frustrated earlier this year when AMC fired Frank Darabont, the show’s director and driving creative force, and slashed its budget almost in half. There were grave concerns that the series would suffer in its second season. Thus far into the series, this has proven thankfully untrue.

Somehow, “Walking Dead” is still going strong without Frank Darabont’s guiding hand. Likely due to the involvement of producer and writer Robert Kirkman, the show is still as fresh, scary and engaging as it was in its first season.

Fans of the comics might notice some dissimilarity in minor details such as characters and small plot points, but overall, many of the changes are for the better. The changes have for the most part led to more interesting sub-plots and deeper character developments.

Indeed, this season expands on the idea that “The Walking Dead” is not about zombies, it is about people in a desperate situation. The plot and character development was what hooked most viewers, and that continues strongly into the second season. Without giving anything away, the character Shane has seen an intense and dramatic shift in the first part of this season, and one that wasn’t really seen in the comics.

And finally, don’t count out the zombie kills. This season so far has delivered some of the most brutal zombie deaths yet (see photo above.) Every episode this season has had at least one scene that induced light vomiting or nausea for some particular audience members. And at the most basic level, that’s all we’re really looking for.

So for those of you still brushing off “The Walking Dead” as a routine romp through zombie-town, take a gander and allow your mind to be blown. “The Walking Dead” airs on AMC every Sunday at 9 p.m.

14

sports

Nov. 11, 2011

Kickin’ it with ‘the bros’

BY KYNA GARRETT

Editor-in-Chief

Students have been combining sportsmanship, friendship and their love of soccer with recreational indoor soccer leagues at the Portage Soccer Zone for years.

The indoor soccer season began on Oct. 29, and many students are returning with their teams, white some students have just recently created one.

In order to create a team, players must register and pay a fee depending on the amount of players interested. The students then designate a coach and design a jersey to represent their team in the indoor soccer leagues.

Senior Nolan Mathews, who has played soccer for years, officially created a coed team, The Dream Team, in September with 12 players and senior Laura Levene as its coach. The Dream Team practices about once a week.

“It’s a good thing to get friends together and exercise at the same time,” Mathews said.

The Salty Sea Cows, another team on which many upperclassman play indoor soccer, experienced a change since last season. The team was originally called The Jungle Berries last year.

“We had a major team overhaul,” senior Brad Dillard said, who is a member of this team.

The Salty Sea Cows lost many of its players since last year and now consists of only nine players without a coach, as they believe this will allow the players more time on the field.

Kyna Garrett/STAMPEDE

Another team, however, known as The Bros, has returned for its second season. The coed team consists of 14 players with senior Tucker Webb as the coach, assisted by senior Jeremy Witt. This team often sports its bright green jerseys designed with a fist bump.

Senior Andrew Tennant helped kick the team off in October 2010. His goal then was to create a team who would look at being a part of the league as a good time rather than being competitive. “It’s a group of unexpected [players] who bonded through soccer,” Tennant said.

Senior A.J. VanZoeren, who plays for The Bros, finds it exciting to play with a variety of players, some of whom do not have much soccer experience, but play in the leagues for fun anyway.

Although the students exhibit competitive sportsmanship while playing in these leagues, the students find that they are not only learning about the game, but also bonding with players who they would not normally interact with outside of the sport.

Women’s golf finishes strong

BY GRANT WALTERS

Staff Writer

The women’s golf team enjoyed great success at the Division 2 state finals on Oct. 13-15, placing 8th out of 15 overall. With a strong performance by state-recognized junior Jessica Heimonen, the Mustangs were able to secure one of the best rankings in a state tournament in years.

Heimonen, along with seniors Lindsey Fillar, Lindsey Mohney and Carly Siko, as well as sophomore Shana Pflibsen, made up the team going to states. Sideways rain and heavy wind gusts plagued the golfers at Katke-Cousins Golf Course on Oakland University’s campus. Additionally, players said that at times, deer ran rampant across the course, and one parent spectator was struck in the head by an errant golf ball and evacuated for emergency stitches.

Despite those setbacks, Portage Central finished with a 736 stroke total for two days of play, dropping 16 strokes off their first day of golf.

“This year, our ranking was higher, and we played much more consistently and proved our worth by placing second at regionals and making it to state,” golf coach Becky Klose said. “Our finish at 8th was a fantastic end to a great season.”

Heimonen, recognized as Kalamazoo Junior Golf Association’s Player of the Year, shot an 84 and 79 on the two

days of play, cutting through 40+ miles per hour winds and 40 degree temperatures.

“Jessica has played some great rounds of golf this season,” Klose said. “She worked hard all winter to improve her game and it paid off.”

Heimonen placed 5th individually in the state this year, with a two-day total of 163 and a season average of 81 for 18 holes. She also was named a member of the All-State team last week.

Fillar, a four-year golf player, also finished strong at states, racking up a 90 on the first and worst day of play, weather-wise. As a senior, she feels that this year’s golf success was a fulfilling way to end her career.

“We placed in almost every event we played in and making it to states was a great way to end the season,” Fillar said. “We managed our goal to be in the top ten, and as a senior I will miss high school golf and my teammates especially.”

“Lindsey has always been a great player, a great leader and role model,” Klose said of Fillar. “I have great admiration for the way she takes on the game.

Aiding the golf team’s success was senior Carly Siko, who fought back from a shoulder injury junior year. She and earned an individual Academic All-State honors last week.

“We were more focused this year, something that I believe comes with experience,” Siko said. “For me, Lindsey Fillar, and Lindsey Mohney, this year was our last, so we knew

Hole-In-One!: The women’s golf team swung for success at the Division 2 state finals held at Oakland University. we had to work hard if we wanted to attain our team goals and personal goals, which we did.”

As well as this year went for the women’s golf team, Klose is proud to reflect on this group and their state recognition.

“This year’s team was a great combination of experience and talent,” Klose said. “In the years I have been coaching, this was the best team I have had by far.”

15

sports

Nov. 11, 2011

A different leader

BY BRETT KAUFMAN

Sports Editor

For the first time since 1995, the hockey team will have a different leader behind the bench.

Former Assistant Coach Brian Bellware will serve as the Mustangs’ new head hockey coach for the upcoming 2011-12 season. He replaces Jim Murray, who stepped down from the head position to become full-time athletic-director.

Bellware joined the coaching staff last year as an assistant.

His coaching experience includes working for 13 years in the local youth hockey association, KOHA. In KOHA, he led several travel hockey teams ranging from ages 10-14. Bellware also has one-on-one coaching experience with hockey players of all ages. In addition to his coaching experience, Bellware is familiar with the high school hockey landscape.

Bellware gained valuable experience while serving as an assistant last year. He said he appreciates the time spent under a veteran like Murray, learning about the highly- competitive high school hockey world.

Bellware has developed a deep passion for the game of hockey, and coaching has allowed him to continue to pursue what he loves. “Coaching allows me to fulfill my passion of hockey while making an impact on the young men I coach,” Bellware said.

He also feels there is something very special about playing sports for your high school. “You develop a whole different level of pride, honor and respect within the school and community,” Bellware said. Bellware is excited about the challenges and opportunities facing this year’s team. “We have a great group of returning players and a very solid group of prospective players coming to tryouts, so I expect that we will

Put me in, Coach: Brian Bellware will lead the varsity hockey program this season.

be very competitive,” Bellware said.

The team lost only five seniors from last year’s regional finalist squad, and 14 are expected to return. Bellware expects the team to continue its tradition of success, while trying to boost its reputation throughout the state as an elite high school hockey program.

“We compete annually with some of the best teams in the state, so we must do well against those teams during the regular season and make a long-run in the state tournament,” said Bellware, who additionally wants to insure that players who hope to move on to junior hockey will be able to accomplish those goals. He looks forward to seeing lots of students and fans at their games, supporting the team.

“It is so energizing to see 100-plus students rallying for their team,” Bellware said.

Notable Return: Senior goalie Tyler Gordon, defends the net. Last year, Gordon complied 5-2-1 South West Michigan High School Hockey Leage record in net.

Third place, one point, four Mustangs

BY JESSICA HEIMONEN

Billy Heckman

Staff Writer

As Oct. 15 slowly drew to a close, the varsity tennis team walked away from the Division 2 state finals at Kalamazoo College’s Stowe Stadium, falling just one point short of second place.

Midland Dow secured the championship with 31 points, 12 points ahead of Grand Rapids Forest Hills Central, who finished second. The Mustangs finished in a tie for third place with Bloomfield Hills Andover, each with 18 points.

Besides the team falling just short of second place, four other Mustangs experienced a heart-breaking defeat, with all finishing second in their individual flights.

Senior Tyler Richmond, at one singles, was defeated by Davis Crocker of Loy Norrix. Junior Billy Heckman, at two singles, lost to Midland Dow’s Jon Gurnee. Also, Abhiram Krishnan and Daichi Hirakawa, at two doubles, lost to number one seeded Jason Chang and David Goslin of Midland Dow. The Mustangs overall this season finished with a 6-2 record, with a 4-1 record in division play.

Age: 16 Years playing: 8 Position: Two singles Superstitions: Lucky bracelet, four-leaf clover in bag Thoughts: “The season went well. Obviously I wish I would have won states. I think I can use that as a learning experience for next year, but altogether we did great as a team.”

Trevor Vanderklok Age: 16 Years playing: 8 Position: Three singles Superstitions: Eats fruit Roll-Ups before playing Thoughts: “I think we had a really good season. We came one point shy of second place at state. It will be fun next year with some younger guys. We’ll be good.”

Nicole Leffingwell/STAMPEDE

16

sports

Nov. 11, 2011

Lacrosse players eager for new coach

BY SCOTT SOLOMON

Special to the Stampede

Principal Eric Alburtus strolled into the community room on Oct. 25; a room full of eager lacrosse players were waiting for his announcement.

When he announced that the new varsity lacrosse coach is former J.V. Coach Greg Chambers, the crowd erupted into applause, signaling a new era Greg Chambers for Portage Central lacrosse.

Chambers’ hiring became necessary after the resignation of former varsity Coach Chris Sizemore.

“

Chambers has been coaching for seven years for Western Michigan University’s club lacrosse team and Portage Central,

[It’s] easy to coach kids who want to be the best.

before being named the varsity coach this fall.

Nicole Leffingwell/STAMPEDE

“

beginning the coaching journey when his son played lacrosse for WMU.After his fourth year at WMU, an opening came up for the school’s junior varsity coach.

Since his son was no longer playing for WMU, he decided to make the switch.

“It seemed like the right thing to do,” he said.

Chambers had already been coaching the freshman football and basketball teams.

Once he took the job, he was the J.V. coach for three years

Women’s swim team dives into states

BY RYAN KRIETZ

Special to the Stampede

school record during the team’s meet against Northern.

In the 500-yard freestyle, Criswell broke a record that had stood since 1997 by finishing with a time of 5:14.80, breaking the previous record of 5:15.24.

“It feels really good to be setting records at Portage Central,” Criswell said. “About six or seven people are going to states. We have been training really hard and putting in a lot of hard work.”

Regionals are scheduled to begin Tuesday and state preliminaries will take place Nov. 18-19.

The women’s varsity swim team boasts a 10-1 dual record heading into state competition this weekend. The divisional competition was held last weekend, and the swim team left a splash as they secured their 10th conference title in the past 11 years.

In addition, a multitude of Mustangs earned AllConference honors, including juniors Holly Krill and Hannah Parry, sophomores Natalie Criswell and Penny Bowser, and freshmen Emma Weber, Madison Umberger, Malak Ghazal and Baylee Kinkade.

The women’s team has made it to state competition with the help of senior Alex Desotelle, Criswell and a large group of underclassmen who have helped elevate the Mustangs to the top of the SMAC conference.

The team warmed up for the post-season by ending conference play with dominating performances over Portage Northern (117-68) and Battle Creek Central (129-47).

To prepare for states, Coach Jim Schafer stresses that the focus now is upon minor issues that can help each swimmer perform at her best “We’ve got to focus on the little things,” Schafer said. “We’re really aiming for a top ten spot at states.”

There are roughly 60 schools across Michigan that are competing in state competition, including Courtesy of Patrick Piper traditional rivals like Mattawan, Kalamazoo Central and Portage Northern.

Swimmers Winners: Emma Weber (top left); Natalie Criswell (top In addition to the upcoming state competition, right); Malak Ghazal (bottom left); and Baylee Kinkade (bottom right) Criswell ended the regular season by setting a new are recognized after winning the conference championship.

He said the program is moving in a positive direction and doesn’t expect a drop-off in expectations or performance.

“We should be a more rounded team, and be more teamfocused,” he said.

The rest of the coaching staff has not been named yet, but Chambers said his main focus is rounding out the staff and finding a new junior varsity coach.

Matt Schuen, a junior and two-year varsity player, knows from experience that Chambers will have the team ready.

“He will do fine,” Schuen said. “It will be a lot of fun. He will be a good coach. I had him freshman year for football and he knows how to coach.”

“The best part about coaching is working with the young men; the spirit they have, their competitiveness, their drive to be the best.” “[It’s] easy to coach kids who want to be the best,” Chambers said.

Last year, the team advanced to the regional finals in the state playoffs, the farthest it had advanced in program history.

Chambers said he hopes to continue the growth started under Sizemore.

Swim for the cure

Courtesy of Hailey Kirchhoff

Senior Alex Desotelle

swims for the cure in the

100

breastroke.

Who: Women’s swimming and diving team What: Pink Meet for Breast Cancer Awareness When: Tuesday, Oct. 25 Where: Portage Central Middle School Pool Why: To raise money for Breast Cancer Awareness.

How much: $744 raised.