central
STAMPEDE
Volume 20 Issue 4
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Portage, Mich.
Feb. 14, 2014
Admistrators’ duty
Code of conduct consequences
When a student receives an MIP outside of school, state law requires the police to report the incident to the school. When administrators receive an incident report from the school resource officer, they pass the report on to the activities and athletic offices, according to assistant principal Jason Frink. The school does not issue further consequences than what the extracurricular code of conduct dictates. “We pass it (incident report) off to both the athletic director and the activities director,” Frink said. “And that’s really the extent of what we do.” A percentage of students will not face consequences, because they are not involved in extracurriculars. If the student is involved in a drinking incident that is in connection to school or a school event, there are consequences from the school in that case. The school punishment for a student being under the influence of alcohol is a 10-day suspension, but if the student agrees to participate in the student assistance team, then the suspension is reduced to five days. Participating in the student assistance team involves a student having a meeting with administrators and parents, taking a drug screen and working with a drug and alcohol counselor. When a student is involved in a drinking incident on campus or at a school-sanctioned event, the school is required by law to report the incident to authorities. If a student is involved with the transfer of alcohol or other illegal substances, they are recommended for expulsion and must go before the Board of Education for a hearing.
For those students participating in athletics and other extracurricular activities, there are punishments from the school. The code of conduct for students in extra-curricular activities has a zerotolerance policy for illegal drugs, tobacco and alcohol. When MIP incidents occur, administrators forward the reports on to the activities director Kent White and the athletic director Jim Murray. Murray and White then carry out the policies stated in the code of conduct. There does not need to be a police report for a student to be found in violation of the code of conduct involving drugs or alcohol. Possession and consumption and association with drugs, tobacco and alcohol, whether there are legal repercussions or not, is violating the code of conduct. For example, if a picture circulated on Twitter includes a student drinking alcohol, there is enough evidence to find that student in violation of the code of conduct. However, police would not be able to prove that there was actually any alcohol in that container, which would result in no MIP citation. Ultimately, the decision for consequences from the code of conduct is up to Murray and White. Murray and White investigate controversial situations, such as pictures, quotes on social media, rumors from other students or parents, and any filed police reports, without being charged, to determine whether students are in violation of the code of conduct or not. Even for students who are 18 years old and legally allowed to consume tobacco products, there is still a zero-tolerance policy for those students under the code of conduct; therefore, students who are 18 can still receive punishments from the school for the consumption or possession of tobacco. On the first offense for students in violation of the code of conduct for drugs, tobacco and alcohol, there is a 20-percent suspension from games for the students involved. On second offense, a student will miss 50 percent of their next season. On third offense, which Murray said he has never seen, a student misses a full calendar year of athletics and other extra-curricular activities.
Portage Central High School
How MIP consequences affect students BY SCOTT SOLOMON, JARED LUTZ AND BRIAN TAGGETT Editor-in-Chief, Sports Editor and Staff Writer As long as alcohol has existed, teenagers have been committed to getting their hands on it. And whenever alcohol and teenagers mix, the law is not far behind. As the school policy stands, students issued Minor in Possession (MIP) tickets have virtually no repercussions from the school itself — unless the offense takes place on school property. However, athletes and students in other activities who get MIPs can count on strict punishment as a result of their actions, ranging from a 20-percent suspension to one that lasts a full season. One such teen, a senior involved in athletics year-round who received an MIP and served the consequences, believes the punishment, coupled with the embarrassment of living with the MIP, is too severe. “The punishment you get, regardless of the school punishment, is already enough,” the athlete said. The student believes that the loss of respect from parents, teammates and coaches is already bad enough and by being suspended, it only makes it worse. They believe no further punishment is necessary Also, the student believes the school needs to take further measures to reach out and help students who receive MIPs, instead of just giving punishment. The student was not offered counseling or any other help from the school; the punishment was simply doled out and no assistance was offered.
Resource officer’s duty When a student is involved with criminal activity outside of school, the school is notified through the resource officer. When a student receives an MIP, the resource officer receives the report of the incident and passes it along to administrators. Along with school-related punishments, an MIP also entails legal repercussions, according to former resource officer Brian Mayhew.
“[An MIP] goes on your driving record,” Mayhew said. “Usually your driving record has violations that come and go after a certain amount of time. It used to be a misdemeanor, so it would go on your criminal record.” With each offense comes harsher penalties. If the culprit is 17 years or older, the offender is ticketed $100 and has to pay additional court fees. Substance abuse treatment may be tacked on to the penalty if the court decides it is necessary. The second offense increases the ticket charges and suspends the license for 30 to 60 days. If a third offense occurs, the fine raises to $500, the offender’s license is suspended for a full year and jail time is possible in certain circumstances. If the offender is younger than 16 years old, they are not ticketed, but the juvenile court may institute a day-long substance abuse program. Theoretically, an offender does not have to be consuming alcohol in order to obtain an MIP. According to the Michigan Liquor Control Code, “A minor shall not purchase or attempt to purchase alcoholic liquor, consume or attempt to consume alcoholic liquor, possess or attempt to possess alcoholic liquor.” However, according to Mayhew, most police officers will not issue an MIP to someone who did not consume alcohol as long as they cooperate with the authorities. In order to issue an MIP, a police officer must have probable cause and obtain a search warrant. The officer will then use the search warrant to enter a party supected to have underage drinkers in attendence. “Ninety-nine percent of the time, an MIP party is broken up because someone is calling with a complaint,” Mayhew said. “I’ve found most of the time the people who call are the people who are upset they didn’t get invited.”
What’s Inside...
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Selfies: annoying or awesome?
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Online class experiences
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news
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Feb. 14, 2014
Students gain real-world experience EFE and EFA courses provide students with useful skills for the future BY ETHAN DUNLOP
edunlop@centralstampede.com
&BY MATT LIGHTFOOT
mlightfoot@centralstampede.com
Staff Writers
Some students are looking to take classes that help them gain more real-world experiences, but may be worried that the classes they want aren’t offered here. Students have the privilege of taking Education for Employment (EFE) classes and Education for the Arts (EFA) classes. Some of the EFE classes provide knowledge to students about the career they wish to pursue, and some classes help students gain the ability to interact with people in a business environment. Hotel, Restaurant & Travel Management is an EFE program for upperclassmen looking for a class that will provide social, hospitality and management skills, and it is offered here at PCHS. “I look forward to this class everyday! It teaches you a lot about business, and you receive many helpful certificates and paid work experience,” senior Ali Crowell said. During the second semester, all students in the program are given the opportunity to go to Disney World in Orlando, Fla., for the Disney Leadership Program, where students will conduct research and deliver a presentation in front of a top hotel director. “Students also have the opportunity to do job shadowing internships at places such as the Radisson hotel,” teacher Tammi Mallos said. At the end of the class, students are given the option to take a test to receive certification in a certain aspect of the management field, which makes resumés look much better to employers and
Hattie Foley/STAMPEDE
Class Time: The Hotel, Restaurant, & Travel Management class meets every afternoon in Room 2108. makes students stand out against competition. Besides Hotel, Restaurant & Travel Management, students in all grades are able to take the full-year class Modern/Jazz Dance Studio which is a part of the EFA program. It is also taught here. Students will receive 1.5 or two credits depending on how long they choose to stay in the daily class, but they will only receive one credit if they choose to take the Tuesday and Thursday class. In this course, students learn the basic elements of dancing and formal technique. The class mainly explores modern dance, ballet, jazz, hiphop and cultural dances. During the course of the year, students learn about movement improvisation, composition and dance history. Students will work with professional dance instructors and guest artists. Throughout the year, students are given the opportunity to go on field
trips to watch live dance concerts and attend master classes. Students are required to participate in EFA dance concerts at the end of each semester. Also, upperclassmen wanting to learn how to be smarter with their money, how credit cards really work and how to increase personal finance are encouraged to take the full year class Personal Finance. By taking a class such as this now, you will be helping to eliminate debt later on and live a much more problem-free life down the road because of fewer financial troubles. With EFE and EFA classes offered here, students have the opportunity to take classes that relate to their future career. EFE and EFA courses provide students with ways to meet new friends and interact with other people who share the same interests, while giving students the ability to find and follow their career path.
Mustang cookbook raising money for a cause BY KATIE DREWS
kdrews@centralstampede.com
View Editor For the longest time, food has united people and has brought them closer together. During holidays and special events, how do people celebrate? They eat together, share recipes and talk about nothing important. Since food seems to be the way to bring people closer, assistant principal Kim Lummis has been collecting recipes from the staff for three years to put into this cookbook. The cookbook, titled “Mustang Family Cooking,” includes recipes from all current support staff and teachers, along with recipes from former faculty. From ‘Food Friday’ to May Fest to Bacon Fest, food plays a major role in friendship and family bonding here. “I don’t know if there’s anything quite like food that more communicates friendship or love or family when you spend your own time, your own money and your own hands making it,” principal Eric Alburtus said. The cookbook was originally made as a gift for the staff. With the additional cookbooks left over, the administrators decided to sell them and put all the profits towards the purchase of a new defibrillator for the second floor. “Putting together the cookbook just for us didn’t really do anything for the school,” Lummis said. “We wanted to take it one step further.” Also known as an AED (automated external defibrillation), a defibrillator is a device that administers an electric shock to the
heart in case of cardiac arrest or abnormal beating of the heart. Basically, the shock forces the heart’s beating back into a normal rhythm. “The year before we got our first defibrillator, we would have had to use [an AED],” Alburtus said. “In the old building, a girl was in seminar and went into full cardiac arrest.” The school liaison officer at the time had to perform CPR on her. If an ambulance had not arrived there fast enough, the girl would have died, according to Alburtus. After that incident, the school had its first AED installed within the next year. Currently, there are three AEDs available in the school building: one in assistant principal Jason Frink’s office, one in the Commons area and one that the athletic trainer takes to every sporting
event. The staff aren’t the only ones who think another AED would be beneficial. Junior Katie Kring agrees. “The school should have another defibrillator just in case there’s an emergency where one is needed,” Kring said. The reason for the new AED installation is for the extracurriculars going on after school. For example, forensic practices are held in the academic wings, and if there is an emergency, someone would have to sprint down Mustang Way and back in order to retrieve an AED. By the time they returned, it might be too late. Alburtus believes this purchase is vital to the safety of all students. “Mustang Family Cooking” is available for $15 at the Welcome Center and at all athletic events. From recipes like Hoopingarner’s and Tabor’s Dorm Room Chili to the Mustang Secret Sauce, the cookbook is thriving with delicious and funny food ideas. “I’ve probably only done like six or seven [recipes] so far, and the ones I’ve done have been terrific,” Alburtus said. They will also be available for purchase at open house, eighth grade parent night and parent-teacher conferences. Lummis said that the faculty is aiming for even people outside of the community to buy cookbooks. Alburtus stresses the fact that the cookbooks are available to anyone who has $15 and is willing to spend it. The sales are open to all students and staff, and the money is going to a good cause that could be the difference between life and death, he said.
Brief
in
Standardized testing will follow mid-winter break
Students will return from a four-day midwinter break to a round of standardized testing, including the ACT/MME for juniors and PLAN tests for freshmen and sophomores. Students will have Friday and Monday off from school (Feb. 28 and March 3, respectively) for a pre-planned break. Tuesday, March 4, is ACT testing for juniors from 7:45 a.m. to about 12:30 p.m., while all other students stay home. Wednesday, March 5, is MME testing for juniors and PLAN testing for freshmen. Classes run from 10:50 a.m. to 2:50 p.m. On Thursday, March 6, juniors will once again test from 7:45 to 10:50, with PLAN testing for sophomores at the same time. School follows from 10:50 a.m. to 2:50 p.m. For daily class schedules, visit the school’s website.
Grad Bash fees won’t increase until April 1 The fee for Grad Bash has already increased to $65, but don’t worry, it’s not too late. The $65 fee will stand until April 1, when it will be raised to $75. Make all checks payable to PC Grad Bash and drop them off at either the Welcome Center or the front office. If you have any questions, please e-mail pcgb2014@gmail.com.
Sadie Hawkins dance is just around the corner The Sadie Hawkins dance will be on Saturday, March 22, in the Commons and will start at 8 and end at 11 p.m. The cost of the tickets is $5. Listen to the announcements for more information.
Student Council hosting blood drive Monday On Monday, Portage Central will be hosting another blood drive. This will be the third blood drive this year. The blood drive will be held in the auditorium lobby from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Any healthy person 17 or older (16-year-olds can donate with parents’ permission) who weigh at least 110 pounds may be eligible to donate every 56 days. The donated blood is going to the American Red Cross.
‘The Sound of Music’ continues into second weekend The drama department’s highly-anticipated musical, “The Sound of Music,” continues with performances scheduled for this weekend. You can catch the show today and Saturday at 7:30 p.m., while a Sunday matinee is scheduled for 3 p.m. Tickets for students are $17 (premium) and $15 (standard). For more information about the show, visit the school’s website.
Student wins orchestra music composing competition Sophomore Caleb Taylor has been chosen as the winner of the Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra Young Composers Competition. His musical piece will be orchestrated by composer and arranger Harrison Orr and performed at the Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra student concert series March 3-7. You can visit www.kalamazoosymphony.com for more information.
news
Feb. 14, 2014
Crazy mix of musicals, dances, and games BY MADISON JAQUA
mjaqua@centralstampede.com
News Editor
What do you get when you put a home basketball game, a Homecoming dance, and a showing of the school’s musical, “The Sound of Music,” all on one night? One packed parking lot and an even busier Commons area. Tonight, the men’s and women’s basketball teams will play Lakeshore at home. During the halftime of the basketball game, Homecoming festivities will occur. After the game, there will be a Homecoming dance located in the Welcome Center. At the same time, the school’s drama department will show its musical production, “The Sound of Music.” For any activities director, the task of organizing such a night might seem overwhelming, but not for Kent White. This will be the third year that all these events are taking place on the same night. White says that there are a lot of factors that go into scheduling the dance, such as which games are home, trying to make the game far enough after exams, as well as allowing for enough time for Student Council to plan the event. Although all these events take place on one night, senior Natalie Duncan, the lead in the musi-
cal, doesn’t think that either event will take away from the other. “Kids won’t be able to come if they decide to go to the Homecoming dance, but I think that people will still come to our show because there’s a lot of people outside of Portage Central who do come to our shows,” Duncan said. White believes that they’ve timed everything just right so that the basketball game will begin before the musical, which clears out the Commons when people start arriving for the musical. Also in the past few years, the staff has gotten lucky with the fact that the end of the basketball game lined up with the intermission of the musical. If that happens, then the staff can just open up the doors down Mustang Way and the students can head into the Welcome Center for the dance. If those two points don’t line up, then White has another plan to keep the night running smoothly. “We have to hire extra staff because we need people posted in Mustang Way to make sure that folks walking down this hallway stay quiet during the musical performances,” White said. Even with all the planning, the musical kids still miss out on Homecoming. “I’ve never been to Homecoming, I’ve always had a show,” Duncan said. “Even sophomore year, when I made court I couldn’t walk, so that kind of stinks.”
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Shelby Mannes /STAMPEDE
Fiasco
on the
Fourteenth: Three events scheduled for tonight make for a chaotic parking lot.
Meet the third Baker: baseball coach and teacher BY MADISON JAQUA
mjaqua@centralstampede.com
News Editor
When Paul Schneider retired last year after 11 years as the varsity baseball coach, the school began looking for a replacement. Around the same time, Todd Tarnutzer was moved from the special education department to the counseling office to fill the position of Kim Sinke when she left. The school was looking for replacements for both positions, and they found just what they were looking for in Brandon Baker, the new special education teacher and baseball coach. This new Mr. Baker shouldn’t be confused with Brian Baker, the Learning Center director or Kent Baker, the teacher. He recently transferred from Northern Middle School where he was a science teacher and the JV coach for the Northern baseball program. Baker is finding many differences between teaching in
the middle school and teaching in the high school. “It’s generally louder in the middle school,” Baker said. “And you’re dealing with different types of issues in the middle school; they’re a little bit more emotional.” As well as switching from teaching different levels, Baker has also switched subjects that he teaches. Special education isn’t a new area for Baker; he started his career teaching it. His only transition seems to be going from middle school to high school, something he has never done before, as well as learning new names. “The nuts and bolts of the job are very similar to what I have done in the past, but there’s just a lot of little details to learn about a new building, a new level,” Baker said. Baker brings a lot of skills to the table, according to Laurel Peak, the special education department chair. His science knowledge helps him to answer science-related questions for the students. The fact that he’s the baseball coach also benefits
the program significantly. “It’s nice that he’ll be able to connect with both our special ed students and with the baseball players and other students that he works with,” Peak said. “It’s really nice because our whole goal is to transcend the divide between special ed and non-special ed, and he helps us do that.” Along with juggling a new job, Baker is also trying to balance his responsibilities as a coach. Workouts have been going on since the first week of December. Although things have been stressful in his first few months here, he is still very much looking forward to the baseball season. “I can’t wait to get back into the competition,” Baker said. “It’s what I miss the most every year. Having the opportunity with the players and the program that we have, we can have high aspirations and look to do big things.” Baker isn’t the only one looking forward to the season. Senior Ryan Mergener can’t wait for the
spring season and a fresh start with a new coach. “I think he’s positive, and he’ll give everybody a fair shot,” Mergener said. “I think we’re going to be a lot better.”
Senior’s hectic music schedules do not conflict with school work BY LUCY FORSTER
lforster@centralstampede.com
Staff Writer
Hanna Rumora
For senior Hanna Rumora, the cello has been the center of her life since the age of five. Inspired by a Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra performance, Rumora has been playing the cello since then. While Rumora loves her cello, she also has other focuses in life and plans to be much more than just a cellist. Rumora is involved in six ensembles, two music-related outreach programs for children and the Kalamazoo Area Math and Science Center. “It can get crazy, especially during exams,” Rumora said. “I just have to keep in mind the amounts of time I need to accomplish everything.” So far, Rumora has applied to six universities, including Vanderbilt and Northwestern universi-
ties. She plans on having a double major in math and cello performance. “I won’t hear about anything until at least April, but my audition went very well at Vanderbilt,” Rumora said. Between her cello and KAMSC, Rumora is very busy, but she finds time for all her extracurriculars. “I am in National Honor Society, Science Olympiad and two music programs for kids,” Rumora said. In Rumora’s crazy schedule, she finds time to help kids with music. “Classicool Kids is all around the nation,” Rumora said. “We teach kids about classical music and make it seem less boring.”
Rumora had the opportunity to tour Canada with one of her ensembles. Rumora is also excited about her upcoming trip to China through the Kalamazoo Junior Symphony Orchestra. Even with her crammed schedule, Rumora finds time to write her own cello music and play the guitar. “I really wish I played the piano, but there is just no time,” Rumora said. Although her schedule is packed tight, she would never want to give up her music, she said. “Making sure I set aside time for my cello is important,” Rumora said. “I just have to make sure I do that; it makes everything easier.”
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view
Feb. 14, 2014
ur View MIP punishments are reasonable When it comes to dealing with MIP charges, the school only has slight jurisdiction over the consequences that a student receives. The school is only able to take action when the
offense has taken place on school property or when a student with an MIP participates in athletics or activities. Some may feel the school’s involvement is fair, but we believe the school is fair in holding their athletes to a high standard. As an athlete, one should aim to maintain a healthy body, and higher expectations should be held for you. Because athletes put extra time and energy toward hopefully having a successful season, they should not jeopardize their athletic career. Therefore, we do feel that athletic and activity ramifications are legitimate. However, there is one step we would add to the school’s process of doling out consequences. We believe that students participating in athletics and activities should not only be suspended from the sport or club, but should also receive some type of counseling along with the suspension. It would be far more benefi-
cial to provide lengthy and mandatory counseling to ensure that students would be less likely to get in trouble with possession of drugs or alcohol in the future. Optional counseling is not enough. If the school were to require counseling, we think they should also create a contract, which the parents and athletes would sign. If parents agreed to have their children participate in counseling, and held themselves responsible for their child’s attendance at counseling, we feel that the population of athletes and students in activities would be less likely to be caught with such substances. Overall, we think school leaders have set fair standards for students who are charged with MIPs, but we do believe they could go even further in establishing consequences and assisting students on the verge of potential drug and alcohol problems.
Stampede Staff
five on five Leigh Wester, 9th
Alex Eby, 10th
Paige Walters, 11th
Jimmy Reder, 12th
Mrs. Huff, teacher
1. How do you feel about a dance, game and musical being on the same night? Dumbest thing ever planned out.
I’ve never been more outraged!
It will definitely be an interesting evening.
Is Natalie Duncan going to all three? She’s a triple threat.
Just like Hannah Montana, you get the “Best of Both Worlds,” and a bit of a “Wrecking Ball.”
2. What are you doing for Valentine’s Day? Wondering why boys don’t like me.
Maybe Nikki Mason will teach me how to write a melody.
Cleaning the Von Trapp household.
Hopefully snatching someone up on “Stop Light Day” if they give me the green light.
Eating pizza with a bunch of redheads!
3. What is your go-to pose for taking selfies? Making 20 chins.
I usually use what white girls wrongfully call the “versace” sign.
As many chins as possible.
Peace sign, with a frontfacing flash in the school’s bathroom, because it’s classy.
Eyes wide, tongue hanging out, inverted peace sign, duck lips, camera one inch from my face.
4. What’s your favorite romance movie? “The Grudge.”
“Crazy, Stupid, Love.”
“Frozen,” duh.
The complete “Saw” series.
“My Cousin Vinny.”
I don’t care about basketball, but I know Chase Carlson is a cutie, so they must be doing well.
Delicious as ever.
Successful.
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 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. Phone: (269) 323-5218 Fax: (269) 323-5290 Room: 2116
5. What do you think of the basketball team this year? They’re sweet.
Lauren Ammar Scott Solomon Editors-in-Chief Madison Jaqua...........................................News Editor Katie Drews.................................................View Editor Rachel Bates...............................................Focus Editor Devon Wilson...............................................Vibe Editor Jared Lutz..................................................Sports Editor Alex Block ............................................... Online Editor Hattie Foley...............................................Photo Editor Assistant Editors/Staff Writers: Katie Bates, Ethan Dunlop, Lucy Forster, Dayton Juday, Matthew Lightfoot, Dakotah Lilly, Shelby Mannes, Caitlin Matthews, Gabe Pedraza, Nico Schuen, Brian Taggett, Andrew Wolf, Austin Wolf Business Manager: Ryan McNassor Adviser: Cheryl Braford
They are so tall!
The Central Stampede
Portage Central High School 8135 South Westnedge Ave. Portage, MI 49002
view
Feb. 14, 2014
Selfies: super or self-absorbed? staff writer
Shelby Mannes
smannes@centralstampede.com To most students, they find the front camera to be a horrible use of technology, but asking others to take our picture can sometimes be out of the question. I think selfies are the greatest things since Pop-Tarts were invented. They make capturing a moment so much easier. There are always moments when I am alone and I would like to capture the moment, but there isn’t anyone around to take my picture. During days that I am home with nowhere to go or nothing to do and I am looking too fly for people not see. #Upsidedownsnowdayselfies are probably my favorite because it gives some students that don’t usually post their selfies, a chance to. Now, selfies are perfectly fine as long as they are PG-rated. I think that if a student plans on taking a selfie, he or she should hide “the goods.” Privates are called privates for a reason. There are also people like me who are per-
Keep it staff writer PG, and B r i a n T a g g e tt it’s golden
btaggett@centralstampede.com
fectionists that don’t want someone to take one picture and be done. Everyone has a favorite face, pose, or side that they prefer, and sometimes people just don’t have an eye for what is a good photo and what is a bad photo. I would rather a picture be perfect. Sometimes, and I think almost all selfie-takers would agree, I wish that there was someone constantly taking my picture. It always amazes me how creative, funny and unique some people’s selfies are, but if you are constantly taking selfies in the mirror with a duck face and awkward poses, you are doing it wrong. Students may say that people who take selfies are arrogant and full of themselves. That may be true, but I think it shows confidence in yourself. Most people may say that they don’t do selfies, but most likely they have at one point in time. So I say, selfie on, guys!
Remember the good ole’ days before smartphones? When people would drive house to house, showing neighbors and friends pictures of themselves with coffee, Versace symbols or the “bae”? Neither do I, and frankly, this whole selfie craze is getting out of control. People did not used to show everyone pictures of themselves, so why should that happen now? Social networking sites have become more polluted with selfies than the Gulf of Mexico with oil following BP’s “little accident.” In Greek mythology, Narcissus saw his reflection in a river and fell in love with his own beauty. He became so infatuated with his own beauty that he was unable to leave the river and eventually died. If social networking sites were available thousands of years ago, I’m sure Narcissus would have been the guy to constantly post selfies and use hashtags like, “ #beautiful #pleasefollowme.”
Selfies are so #basic If you have an Instagram, I highly recommend you peruse over the account “mrpimpgoodgame.” Roughly 350 selfies in a 30-week period. Society has become so obsessed with self-image that people try to prove their attractiveness by attempting to take a picture of themselves multiple times to find the “best shot.” Then, they use picture filters because #noedit will not make your eye color brighter than a fluorescent light bulb. If someone constantly wants their picture taken, I wouldn't recommend a phone with a frontfacing camera, I would recommend a therapist. This world has reached the point in which people have to prove their beauty by taking a picture of themselves, editing it and then posting it online. Selfies are distorting the perception of elegance because they are driven by self-centered people who post altered, fake pictures of themselves, which negatively redefines beauty.
Portage’s Snowmageddon
focus editor
R a c h e l B at e s
rbates@centralstampede.com
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Winter can be either the most wonderful time of the year - or the most miserable. The weather advisories are endless; just when you think the snow is going to die down, the Snowmageddon is upon us once again. There is never a dull moment driving in these conditions - wheels spinning, getting stuck, slipping, sliding and having your driveway plowedin is only just the beginning of the fun. Living on the corner of an intersection in my neighborhood, I understand being plowed-in. Spending hours trying to shovel and get rid of all the snow is a real pain, just to get in the car and face terrible road conditions. Being late to school isn’t unusual for students in the winter; car troubles and accidents aren’t out of the ordinary this time of year, unfortunately. Just last week, my car began acting up, and although I made it to the Wendy’s parking lot, it still had to be towed away. Shivering, sitting in the car, waiting for my dad to come to my rescue, just reminded me how dangerous the snow can really be. Driving really isn't that difficult in the snow once you get accustomed to it. I mean, we do live in Michigan after all. Depending on your vehicle, it can be either easy to maneuver the roads, or it
can be super difficult. My car is front-wheel drive, meaning it doesn’t do very well in the snow; getting in and out of driveways and neighborhoods without fishtailing or getting stuck is troublesome. I’ve become good at edging out slowly, since I’m usually stuck, and hoping I don’t get hit while making left turns. Along with the hazardous roads, there are always some very cautious drivers who go way under the speed limit. As aggravating as it is, I can't blame them. Some teens and even adults shouldn't be allowed on the roads these days. Although the driving is treacherous, if you take your time it will just take you a little longer to get where you're going. Having said that, I vote the school gives us a few extra minutes during lunch to promote safe, careful driving instead of rushing in terrible weather conditions. The low temperatures and nasty roads may be bad for driving, but they're good for other things... like snow days! Students excitedly wake up to their alarms only to find out that school is closed and they can go back to bed. You can never go wrong with a snow day. Recently, the schools in the south had a few flurries, so their schools closed. Since Portage is ready for the snow with plows and salt trucks, snow days are somewhat rare for us. In Michigan you can never be too sure of the weather, but you can always be prepared. Staff and students, myself included, yearn for more snow days this winter, hoping it won’t change the length of the school year (not to mention the fact that we've already used all six snow days the state allows us). So everyone be careful out there, you never know when the Snowmageddon might hit again.
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Feb. 14, 2014
From the stage to forensics
Co-director in The Good Doctor becomes new forensics coach BY CAITLIN MATTHEWS
age speech class. “It gives you a little more variety in terms of Staff Writer how many categories there are, and provides some options to explore,” Mills said. The forensics team covers all topics of presenCompetition season begins on March 1 at tations, from impromptu to informative to sales. Grand Rapids Christian High School. Other tourNow, with the help of the new forensics assistant naments such as regionals are spread throughout coach and English teacher Tyler Baas, the team March, leading up to the state competition on prepares itself for its upcoming tournament seaMay 2. son starting in March. One of Baas’s main goals for the season is to Baas, a former forensics student, strongly defeat crosstown rivals Portage Northern in the believes this extracurupcoming competiricular activity teaches tions, who he bestudents valuable life lieves need a “kick in skills, such as the abilthe pants.” ity to speak in front of “I am kind of others and to articulate tired of the complathoughts on the spot. cency of our team. I These skills, according want to push us, beto Baas and head coach cause we have amazTheresa Mills, are used ing competitors, in almost every workand we have amazplace. ing coaches,” Baas “It really offers a lot said. “We have more freshman Robert Beverage of students a lot of opcoaches than Northtions to get involved,” ern’s team has, so Baas said. “To become a part of a team if they are there is no excuse for our students not to do well.” not athletic, and even if they are; to have a great Students sign up for forensics to improve their experience that’s going to teach you actual life public speaking or to simply have fun. After enskills.” joying the forensics class, freshman Robert BeverMills, who has been teaching forensics for five age hopes to improve his public speaking with the years, believes forensics is not as strict as an averhelp of Baas. “I don’t know him that well,” Beverage said. “He seems really cool and I think students will be able to relate to him.” Junior Luke Ostrem, who was a part of the fall play “The Good Doctor,” enjoyed Baas’s comical directing styles and hopes it will transfer to his forensics teaching. "I think he has a good eye for presentation, and he will be able to add some funny jokes," Ostrem said. Scott Solomon/STAMPEDE cmatthews@centralstampede.com
“He seems really
cool and I think students will be able to relate to him.”
Caitlin Matthews/STAMPEDE
Practice Makes Perfect: Baas helps junior Nala Davis (pictured above) with her piece by showing her YouTube videos, and helps sophomore Madeleine Kindler (pictured left) prepare for her event.
Hetalia club welcomes all new members
BY KATIE BATES
kbates@centralstampede.com
Staff Writer
A new anime-based club is focusing mainly on the television series known as “Hetalia.” The Japanese show is somewhat complicated if you don’t know much about history, or if you’re not familiar with anime, but once it’s been explained it’s fairly easy to understand. Sophomore Victoria Edsinga, a club member, explained it saying, Hetalia is anime with characters that personify the stereotypes of different countries that participated in World War II. For example, the character that portrays America is loud, obnoxious and eats food such
as burgers far too indulgently. Hetalia puts an educational spin on important historical actions that have happened all over the world by showing the countries as individuals. It created global powers into characters that have relationships, disputes, and friendships with one another based off of fictionally exaggerated political actions in history. Club activities are quizzes for new members that determines which country from Hetalia they are most like. In addition, Hetalia club members partici-
pate in “Cosplay.” “Cosplay is a lot of fun; it’s dressing up like your favorite character and acting out scenes from Hetalia,” Hannah Nakken, one of the Hetalia Club presidents, said. There is no requirement for new members to have previous knowledge about Hetalia, as everything is explained by club members to all new group members. “All you need is a love of history and an interest in events that changed the history of countries to join the Hetalia Club,” Edsinga said. However, the club isn’t just focused on talk-
ing about the anime show. “The club is extremely social; we all have a great time hanging out and spending time together with something that is so much fun and really interests us,” Hetalia fan and club member Paige Nelson said. Hetalia Club also consists of learning about the history and cultures of the many different countries that are involved in Hetalia, and getting to know other fellow group members as well. A group that is open to everyone; meeting every Monday after school until four, the Hetalia Club is a fun and creative outlet for all.
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Feb. 14, 2014
Online classes offer opportunities BY LAUREN AMMAR
lammar@centralstampede.com
Editor-in-Chief
With classes like Music Appreciation, Oceans and their Ecosystems, Film Studies and Game Design, online classes offer a different approach to learning. Since Portage Public Schools started offering more online classes to students a few years ago, students have been taking advantage of the increased options for classes and the change of pace online classes can offer. “In a traditional class, you get deadlines, but for online classes, all assignments are due at the end of the semester, so you can go at your own pace,” junior Hayden Nickell, who took Oceans and their Eco-systems first semester, said. Reasons students take online classes range from a schedule conflict to credit recovery to a desire for a class that isn’t traditionally offered. “This year I took Web Design first semester, and I’m taking Music Appreciation this semester,” senior Rachel Weber said. “I didn’t want to take any other school electives because I had already taken ones that I was interested in.” According to counselor Lisa Jepson, online classes are a great way for a student to fit in a class they wouldn’t be able to take otherwise. “We have many students who may take an online class because they can’t fit a particular class in their schedule, they need to take an online class to get extra core classes because of travel [such as to KAMSC], or they need to make up a class for one reason or another,” Jepson said. With the freedom and flexibility that comes with online classes, it is really up to the student to choose how they want to spend their time, although online instructors do monitor students’ progress and work. “One advantage is if you have other school work, you can take a day off and work on other homework,” Weber said. Another option is to get work done early to save time later. “I worked over winter break and have had seminar ever since,” Nickell said. Since students can go at their own pace, they may find they can get work done quicker than if they were in a traditional classroom, according to summer online class advisor Dan Stahr. “You don’t have to wait for the instructor to help other students or re-teach a lesson you might have understood,” Stahr said. While online classes have their advantages, they also have their
disadvantages. “You can definitely get sidetracked or procrastinate,” Nickell said. Weber notes that while online classes have a lot to offer, they’re not for everyone. “I have learned a lot, but it’s hard. Unless you learn from reading, it can be difficult,” Weber said. “To see everything written out makes sense for my class [web design], but for classes like science or math, I don’t think it would work as well.” In addition, students should Hattie Foley/STAMPEDE be aware that with online classes, Independent Learning: Students who take online classes as part of their schedules work in the learning center, a teacher is not like seniors Molly Siko, Lukas Creed and Payton Mills. always readily available to answer questions. ferent needs,” Jepson said. “You have to be self-disciplined,” Stahr said. “There is no direct Most students agree that the process to sign up for an online teacher to answer a question right away, meaning you might have class is fairly straight-forward. to wait for an answer for 24 hours.” “To enroll, I had to talk to my counselor and explain why I There are similarities between online and regular classes, wanted to take an online class, then I had to fill out paperwork to however. According to Jepson, both include the same material, get approved by schools,” Weber said. homework, tests, and a teacher who grades assignments. After filling out a form, a student will receive a username and One major difference is time; regular high school classes have password through email, and then they can log in to the Michigan a fixed time, whereas online classes can be worked on whenever. Virtual High School and begin working on assignments. Online classes can be taken during the school year or in the sumFor students seriously considering taking an online class, Wemer, but there is a fee for classes not taken as part of a student’s ber has some words of wisdom. schedule. For students who are interested in taking online classes, “Do your work, because it’s easy not to,” Weber said. “Don’t the best option is to talk to a counselor. take online classes unless you’re self-motivated, or you will leave “Talk to us and we will look at your four year plan and ask stuff until the last minute. Also, make sure the online class you’re what you are interested in - every student is different and has diftaking is something that you are interested in.”
Last-minute date ideas
Stressed because you can’t think of anything to do with your special someone for a date tonight? Is money too tight to do anything extravagant? Feel guilty because you haven’t planned anything? If this is you, here are my top three recommendations for a fun last-minute date.
3.
1.
Take a romantic walk downtown. What’s better for a romantic date than a romantic walk? Downtown Kalamazoo is home to beautiful Bronson park and has many great spots for photo-ops. Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook are free to use, so go ahead and post as many pictures as possible with your boo. If you take too many pictures, save them for future #mancandymondays and #womancrushwednesdays on social media. During this romantic downtown walk, you’ll pass plenty of restaurants where you can see the prepared couples who made reservations in advance to eat.
Listen to Lil B’s 101 track mixtape. This six disk compilation of music is available FREE for download on the popular music website Datpiff. Snuggle up, make some popcorn, hit play and listen to half a gigabyte of based music. Hit songs like “Hummus or Crack” and “Twurk Sum” will be the soundtrack of your romantic date night. With over six hours of based fun, this intense music listening session will be a Valentine’s to remember!
2.
Adopt a stray cat you find behind a Chinese restaraunt and accept it as a symbolic member of your relationship. Ignore the fact that it probably has rabies or feline AIDS, and fall in love with its eyes and furry coat. After you take it home against its will, give the cat a name similar to Bubbles, Cuddlebear, or Dennis. This night will go down in Valentine history as you and your special somebody try to litter train a cat who has been surviving off of sewer rats for the past two years.
BY BRIAN TAGGETT Staff Writer
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vibe
Have you
herd?
Reviews from the central stampede
‘The Fault In Our Stars’ shines
If you enjoy action novels that are fast-paced, you probably wouldn’t think that a story from the perspective of a cancer patient is something of interest. However, “The Fault In Our Stars” by John Green is truly a literary masterpiece. The story follows a 16-year-old cancer patient named Hazel, who accepts her prognosis, but inwardly struggles with believing that anyone could ever love someone with terminal cancer. For years, she lives with the possibility that each day could be her last, trapped at home, constantly under parental supervision. Then one day, she meets Augustus Waters, a boy from her support group, and suddenly for the first time since her diagnosis, she feels alive again. Although the book might be directed more toward female audiences, it strongly relates to people of all ages regardless of gender. It has been a long time since I’ve read a cancerrelated novel that didn’t just focus on cancer, but instead focused on comedy, love, and friendship. “The Fault In Our Stars” succeeds in making you want to cry and throw it across the room, yet devour every word at the same time.
-Reviewed by Katie Bates
kbates@centralstampede.com
Interesting plot and a great read “The Divergent Series,” written by Veronica Roth, is fast-paced and action-filled. Dynamic characters and plot twists enwrap the three books, which conclude with a surprising and unexpected ending. Many readers originally compared the series to “The Hunger Games,” and fans of “The Hunger Games” have greatly enjoyed this new series. It is the story of a dystopian society consisting of four factions that citizens must choose to join for the rest of their lives once they reach the age of 16. The main character, Beatrice, makes a decision that turns her life in a new direction and leads her to truths that will change her, her friends, her family and unravel life as she understands it. I highly recommend this book to any reader who enjoys a suspenseful novel. This series will not disappoint.
-Reviewed by Hattie Foley
hfoley@centralstampede.com
An easy listen, but not much else Indie rock superduo Broken Bells recently released “After the Disco,” the follow-up to their 2010, critically acclaimed, self-titled release. “After the Disco” is filled with the fusion of catchy beats, refreshing synths and dreamy vocals that the duo do so well. The album’s title clearly holds significance for the band and their influences working on the album. The end product seems to find itself longing to belong in the time era when disco was fighting to stay alive but wasn’t winning. While over the years bands have proved that elements of disco are both relevant to music and can make for some of the best dance songs out there, take for example Arcade Fire’s phenomenal “Reflketor” released last fall, Broken Bells did not quite manage this feat. After a few tracks the songs suddenly all blend into one unexciting and uneventful album, but regardless of the album’s predictability, it still holds a certain charm and is an enjoyable easy listen.
-Reviewed by Devon Wilson
dwilson@centralstampede.com
Feb. 14, 2014
Non-clichéd romance films BY DEVON WILSON
dwilson@centralstampede.com
Vibe Editor
For years the entire genre of romance films has been viewed as cliché flicks for women, however many of the greatest and most original films of all time fall under this category. With Valentine’s Day here, what better a time to take a look at some of the most original and far from traditional love films of all time. Harold & Maude: “Harold and Maude” is the unusual love story between an optimistic old woman who has seen pain and suffering (Ruth Gordon), and a pessimistic boy who has no real reason to despise his life (Bud Cort). Their love is strange, taboo, and still manages to be altogether heart-warming. A young boy obsessed with death and an old woman ecstatic about living are perfect opposites and the film often finds itself contrasting the two characters for obvious reasons. But as the film shows beautifully, not all relationships are perfect cookie cutter images. Her: “Her” is a tale of taboo love in a future not all that far from our own. Taboo in a style similar to “Harold & Maude,” focusing on one man and the relationship he develops with his computer operating system in a world that isn’t quite used to that. As the loneliness and desperation for love that everyone seeks to fill can now be found in a computer, a lack of real human interaction begins. As Theodore (Joaquin Phoenix) spends his time getting to know and love his OS (voiced Scarlett Johansson), he suddenly questions himself and his real desires. “Her” differs from other romance movies not only by the human and computer relationship, but also by the deeper meanings it conveys about human desires, relationships and interactions. Eternal Sunshine of The Splotless Mind: As much a science fiction movie as it is a romantic drama, “Eternal Sunshine of The Spotless Mind” takes viewers on a trip inside the protagonist’s mind as he makes desperate measures to erase his relationship. If you could forget all of your
most painful memories, but at the risk of losing some of the happiest would you still try it? That is the ultimate question behind “Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind.” As Joel (Jim Carrey) erases the memories of his recent ex, Clementine (Kate Winslet), he finds himself stuck inside his mind in a very literal sense. The science fiction angle of the movie, and consequently the extremely unique way the story is told, make “Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind” far from cliché. Moonrise Kingdom: Wes Anderson, the brilliant director behind modern classics such as “Rushmore” and “The Royal Tenenbaums,” proved once more that he directs the most beautiful and entertaining films of our time. Two small children fall head over heels in love with each other and decide to take a chance and run away. Taking place in the 1950’s, the story revolves around the two young lovers’ attempt to run away to the other end of the small island they live on, while their parents try to find them. Aside from being one of the most lovable and charming movies of the past few years, it is also one of the most visually stunning. Everything is portrayed in a way reminiscent of how the world is viewed as a child. Filled with wit, a smart plot, and a fantastic acting, “Moonrise Kingdom” is the charming rendition of young love at its finest. Lost in Translation: Far off the beaten path of love stories, one could find “Lost in Translation.” While it is a movie about love, it is not about romance. It is the story of two lost and lonely souls trying to find happiness. A washed up actor (Bill Murray) and a young woman forgotten by her husband (Scarlett Johansson) manage to find solace
in Japan together. Love is not all romantic and is more frequently a deep feeling of care for another person. One of the most painfully honest movies of all time, “Lost in Translation” explains loneliness in everyday life and the ability to find happiness regardless of that loneliness. Few movies manage to depict the aspects of love that most people overlook, but “Lost in Translation” is an exception. Sightseers: They say there is someone out there for everyone, and the off-beat black-comedy romance “Sightseers” proves just that. The film follows the misadventures of a couple (played by Alice Lowe and Steve Oram) who turn into serial killers as they try to enjoy their first vacation together but everything continually goes wrong. As they set out on their trip they find themselves angered at nearly everyone they encounter and convince themselves murder can be justified. As the couple continue their killing spree they find themselves as deeply in love as they are deranged. Although it sounds like a terribly written horror flick, “Sightseers” is one of the funniest, disturbing, and altogether enjoyable films with just enough romance to make it to this list. Submarine: Growing up can be very awkward, and while many coming-of-age films have portrayed this well over the years, “Submarine” shows it exceptionally well. The uncomfortable first love, your parents “lack of understanding” and constantly changing quicker than you imagined was possible are the epitome of most teen films, and “Submarine” shows them in a beautiful light. The acting is spot-on and each of the characters’ thoughts and feelings seem genuine and believable. Young Oliver Tate (Craig Roberts) tries his best to balance love, helping his parents struggling relationship and all the worst parts of puberty. “Submarine” is one of the best stories of love at the age when you are trying to figure everything out.
vibe
Feb. 14, 2014
Creative cartoonist BY JARED LUTZ
jlutz@centralstampede.com
Sports Editor
Senior Griffin Snow’s love and talent for drawing cartoons started young. Cartoon drawings came naturally to Snow, and as he grew older animation came just as easily. Snow now has a Facebook page and a website, griffinsnow. com, for many people to enjoy his cartoons and animated videos. Griffin Snow Cartoons started in 2008 as animated shorts, and then evolved into multiple series and video games. In 2012, “Through The Mirror” won the people’s choice award in the Kalamazoo Institute of the Arts Teen Filmmaker Festival. “That was a pretty big achievement for me,” Snow said. “I’m really glad whenever people enjoy my work.” “Taco Blue” was a finalist in the same festival the previous year. Snow’s animations have also been featured on the Public Media Network, a Kalamazoo County Public access channel. Snow’s favorite cartoon series he has produced so far is his “Through the Mirror.” Other series include “BLOBS,” “The Corn-Cob Carrying Man Show” and “Arithia,” which is about psychic children. Snow has also submitted cartoons as a part of a science project that was well received by his teacher and peers. “It was quite humorous and had the class laughing while still giving the info needed for his science presentation,” chemistry teacher James Carrow said. “The cartoon was well-made and he did a great job with the voice acting.” Snow is the sole writer and animator in all of his shorts and cartoons. His ideas and the production of his animations are original. Most voices in his shorts are also his own, although for female voices, he has the help of his friend Maddison Russel. “I was inspired to start doing anima-
tions because I’ve been watching cartoons my whole life,” Snow said. Snow also attributes his inspiration to animation directors and films. “I owe a lot of my inspiration to the animation director Chuck Jones, to the animated films of Studio Ghibli, and to the television series Neon Genesis Evangelion,” Snow said. Snow incorporates his own life and surroundings into his animations. Some events and jokes in the animations are related to events that Snow sees around him. Snow also incorporates personality traits from the people he knows for the characters in his series. Snow hopes to continue his cartoons and animations and one day become an animation director in Hollywood. “I really enjoy this job,” Snow said. “It’d be great to someday be directing movies and see my animations on the big screen.” Griffin Snow Cartoons typically issues a new cartoon every Sunday, viewers should watch for an addition to Snow’s ongoing series Arithia on griffensnow.com or track the chapter updates on the Facebook page Griffin Snow Cartoons.
NOW I KNOW www.kvcc.edu/register
AC TC OD E
IB diploma candidate balances two bands
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Andrew Buczek learns how to handle such a busy schedule BY DEVON WILSON
both bands, the two of them typically focus more on “Dad Jeans” with their friends, leaving “The Vibe Editor Goldenrods” as more of a side project for when they find the time. High school students are all well aware that By the age of five Buczek had hopes of one day they are in charge of balancing their lives between becoming a singer and by the time he turned 11 he school and social activities. Junior Andrew Bucwas learning guitar. zek is shooting for the IB “Well when I first startDiploma while trying to ed playing guitar, it was manage two bands. really honestly because Buczek’s current muI was in 6th grade and I sical ventures consist of thought it would help me the two piece garage rock get girls,” jokes Buczek duo, “The Goldenrods,” when asked why he dethat Buczek made with his cided to pick up the guitar. close friend Tucker HarBuczek, like most mubaugh who he met through sicians, loves music bethe Kalamazoo Academy cause it’s what makes him of rock, and the emo group happiest. “Dad Jeans” formed by “Some people, me inBuczek, Harbaugh and a cluded, reach spiritualfew close friends. ity through music. I feel Managing so much in THAT connected to it.” your life at such a relaBuczek and the rest of tively young age is no easy “Dad Jeans” are already feat, as Buczek himself can planning their futures attest to. around their music. Af- Junior Andrew Buzcek ter they all graduate, they Buczek and his bands have found gigs throughplan on staying in Kalamaout Kalamazoo. zoo together. “He’s extremely passionate when it comes to “It’s a little bit scary, because I know I’m gethis music,” said junior Sumedha Reddy when ting into uncharted territory,” explains Buczek, asked how Buczek seems on stage. “but we’re planning on staying in dorms for a Buczek tries to balance his time between the year and then buying a house in the Vine district two bands, but since him and Harbaugh are in together.” dwilson@centralstampede.com
“It can be tough sometimes when I have to finish the mixing for one band’s release, hold band practice for the other band’s gigs and have two IB tests the next day. But ultimately it’s totally worth it.”
A Musician’s Passion: Buzcek does one of the things he has dreamed about since he was five, making music. In both his garage rock bands, ‘The Goldenrods’ and ‘Dad Jeans,’ Buzcek plays guitar, which he has done since the very young age of 11. Buzcek plans to pursue a career in music after high school with his band ‘Dad Jeans.’
MARIA W. MEDICAL ADMIN Devon Wilson/STAMPEDE
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sports
From high school to college level Portage Central athletes exposed to college recruiters BY JARED LUTZ
jlutz@centralstampede.com
Sports Editor
As the expectation of high school athletes looking to compete at the college level grows, it has become crucial for those athletes to go beyond the high school playing field in order to have a chance at the college level. College recruiting camps benefit both the athlete and the university. Summer camps in particular provide an extra income to the university’s sports program and it gives the coach and staff an opportunity to view potential recruits for the program. Athletes benefit from recruitment camps as well, as they can be seen by universities that they want to attend and it heightens their chances at scholarship money. Recruitment camps can be oriented by invitation only, or open camps. Invitation camps are more prestigious camps that are designed for the best athletes. Open camps are available to all athletes interested in an opportunity to play at a university with other athletes from across the country. Camps are available to ages as young as 5th grade. Showcase tournaments are another way for college scouts to view the skills of young prospects. Showcase tournaments either bring together the best athletes on all-star teams to play
organized games against each other, or teams are invited into showcase tournaments where they compete against other highly competitive programs. Sophomore Adam Getty started his recruitment process to college scouts early. Getty is the lacrosse goalie and hopes for an opportunity to play at the college level. According to Getty, in lacrosse, most college recruitment is done during
summer travel programs. Upon invitation, Getty attends camps to expose himself to even more college scouts, such as camps at Ohio State University, the University of Massachusetts and the University of Michigan. Typical camps, for most sports, range from 50 to 100 athletes from all classes, according to Getty. The camps consist of open practices and scrimmages that are run by scouts and coaches of the
Feb. 14, 2014 hosting university. Junior Jordyn Muffley is involved in a unique program for college exposure, Prep Baseball Reports. PBR is an organization that introduces high school baseball players to scouts and organizes showcase tournaments, designed for the best players, that are attended by scouts across the nation. “It’s an organization for baseball recruiting,” Muffley said. “It gets your name out there.” According to Muffley, Mike Penn, the founder of PBR, directly works with the high school baseball players in his organization. Penn provides coaches with contact information of an athlete’s school of interest. Similar to lacrosse, summer baseball is more important to the recruiting process than the school season. “Summer is the most important in recruiting,” Muffley said. “Scouts come to high school baseball but that happens more in the summer.” The hockey team is one of the only teams at Portage Central to have the opportunity to compete at a showcase designed for scout exposure as a team, rather than individually. The Trenton Showcase, which took place Feb. 7 and 8, brings in highly competitive high school hockey teams from all around the Midwest and Canada to perform in front of college scouts. “As a team, we get to compete against some of the best teams in the state,” senior Devin Bilek said. “But it also gives our more skilled players the chance to be seen by scouts without going to camps and tournaments outside of the high school season.” The prestige of college level athletes has forced high school athletes to take a more active part in the recruiting process, which is typically done outside of the high school season. High school athletes have many opportunities to be seen by college scouts and coaches in order to help athletes reach the college level.
Successful freshman supports basketball team Dominant performance by McCullough helps team battle through adversity BY SCOTT SOLOMON
ssolomon@centralstampede.com
Editor-in-Chief
The basketball team is fighting to find their stride before the playoffs start, and are counting on continued success from freshman Austin McCollough. McCullough has made a huge impact on the team, being in the starting lineup for the majority of the season. It is rare that a freshman makes such a big impact on a varsity team, especially basketball. McCullough moved here this year from Alabama, which has earned him the nickname “Bama.” Many of McCullough’s teammates have noticed the success that McCullough has been producing throughout the season. McCullough believes his teammates’ support has helped him make the transition. “They’ve accepted me well,” McCullough said. “A lot of the older guys, seniors, they help me out because they know I’m new to everything. They try to get me to where they want me to be so I can play a lot more and be on the floor with them.” Junior guard Lewis Kordupel has been extremely impressed with McCullough this year.
Shelby Mannes /STAMPEDE
Game Time: The varsity basketball team comes together before their nail-biting 44-42 win over cross-town rivals Portage Northern on Feb. 7. Kordupel is impressed by his work ethic and shooting abilities. “He impressed me a ton for being a freshman,” Kordupel said. The team earned a big win at Portage Northern earlier in the season, beating the cross-town rivals
in the first matchup of the two teams, 44-40. McCullough hit three three-pointers in the win, one of which put PC ahead of PN. He describes this as the highlight of his career so far. McCullough also made two three-pointers in their second game against Northern.
Throughout the year, the team has fought adversity due to suspension, transfer students, and injuries. Their current record is 4-9 as of Feb. 10. This isn’t stopping them though, as both Kordupel and McCullough have high expectations for the team as they move into the playoffs.
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Feb. 14, 2014
Football players head to Ferris St.
Three of five recent football commits will play for the Bulldogs in the fall
staff writer
BY BRIAN TAGGETT
btaggett@centralstampede.com
B r i a n T a g g e tt
Staff Writer
Coming off of the most successful season in Mustang football history, several colleges have taken notice of the key players who contributed to the team’s success. The majority of interest has come from NCAA Division II and III schools, but even a few Division I schools have recruited Mustang seniors. On Jan. 30, senior Jerrod Davis committed to play for the Central Michigan University Chippewas and senior Cory Carr signed on to play for Western Michigan University, both Division I schools. However, three Mustangs recently decided where to play college football, all on the same day and all to the same school. On Jan. 21, seniors Jacob Allan, Matt Capasso and Hunter Lassiter decided to take their talents to Big Rapids, home of the Ferris State University Bulldogs. The threesome, who are also basketball teammates, made the decision following a basketball game against the Wayland Union Wildcats. “We didn’t really coordinate the commitment, but we talked to the coach earlier that day, and after we met with them I knew that I wanted to go there,” Allan said. The senior was named Kalamazoo Gazette’s 2013 player of the year by impressing voters with his versatile talents as a running back and defensive back. Among the schools interested in Allan
btaggett@centralstampede.com
Brian Taggett /STAMPEDE
Signing Day: Five football commits sign letters of intent Feb. 5 in the Media Center. included Northwood University, Concordia University-Ann Arbor and Western Michigan University. According to Allan, the coaches, players, financial aid and broad selection of studies at Ferris State helped him make his decision. After the basketball game, Allan decided to agree to Ferris State’s offer. Capasso, a standout tight end and defensive lineman, also agreed to play for Ferris State. Finally, Hunter Lassiter decommitted from Central Michigan University, and signed on to play for Ferris State. Within minutes of each other on social media, the commitments of the three players were reported. “I’m glad I get to continue my football career with these guys,” explained Capasso. “I hate to lose and so do they. I plan on being successful
there as a team.” Senior Max Ryan, a football and basketball teammate of the trio, also believes that the three will be successful. “[Allan, Capasso and Lassiter] are all big kids and great athletes that love to play football. I think that’s a big part in why Ferris State was interested in them,” Ryan said. Capasso credits much of the success to Portage Central, who helped develop his talent. “I am truly blessed and thankful for the opportunity to play college football, and I want to thank everyone that has helped me get to this point. [Mustang] football will always be in my heart, and I hope to see them finish what we didn’t finish this year.”
Lack of divers doesn’t deter swimming and diving team BY JARED LUTZ
jlutz@centralstampede.com
Sports Editor
With just one diver on the men's swimming and diving team this year, the team has had to rely heavily on the dominant performances of the swimmers. Senior Alec Raifsnider is currently in his third year diving for the team. Similar to the number of entries allowed in a swimming event, diving is only permitted to have three eligible divers. Raifsnider has been one of the three since his sophomore year, but this year he stands alone. Raifsnider says he doesn't mind being the only diver on the team. "It doesn't bother me," said Raifsnider. "It gives me more practice time and I’m able to get bigger and better dives." The swimming and diving team is scored by the placement of each competitor who places in the top five of each of the 12 events in a swimming meet. The swimming and diving scores are combined for one grand score that determines a team's placement at a meet. Last year, the swimming and diving team had three state competitive divers on the team. Those three divers were influential in obtaining high scores for the team last year, and with only
Life as a basketball team manager
Courtesy of Steven Wadas
Dive In: Senior Alec Raifsnider takes a dive in the team’s meet against Mattawan. one diver this year, there has been a negative effect on the combined swimming and diving meet scores. “It costs us points at each meet that could help us win,” said junior Steven Wadas. However, the lack of divers has not discour-
aged the members of the combined team, as all season they have been looking ahead with high hopes for scores as high as those last year in the state meet, which resulted in a 16th place finish for the boys. “Last year we had high-placing divers and multiple divers that helped our scores,” Wadas said. “We can make it up if we work hard.” Junior Chris Cole agrees. “Even with the shortage, we will be able to be as competitive at the state as we have in the past,” he said. So far, the swim team has not had trouble contending at a high level with only one diver, as their record currently stands at 4-3. Swimmers have been offered the opportunity to dive as well as swim on the team, although it is not mandatory for swimmers to do so. Swimmers typically choose the events that they would like to swim in. “It has to be up to the swimmer,” said Wadas. “No one wants to do it." For the future team, Raifsnider would also like to have another diver. "It would be nice to have a younger diver for the future of the team," said Raifsnider. "It would also be nice to have more people participating in this sport." The men’s swimming and diving team is still looking for more depth to the diving team. No experience is required to dive, and the diving coach is great, according to Wadas.
A camcorder, a tripod, a stat sheet, a pencil and a hella good dress game, and you're set to be a quality manager. As many people know, I'm the team manager for the varsity basketball team (the only manager in southwest Michigan who can grab rim). Known as “BT,” “Taggett,” “Statman” and “B-Tizzle,” my identity changes player to player, and coach to coach. Although I try my hardest to be the bestdressed manager in the SMAC, the manager life is not that glamorous. Early morning practices over winter break, bus rides that are two hours round trip, acting as Coach D's personal assistant... the manager life is very underestimated. Let me tell you, inflating flat basketballs and running to the trainer’s room to prepare ice for players becomes fairly tedious. Filming a game is even more lackluster. Sitting in the nose bleed seats, far from the action, only responsible for moving a camcorder on a tripod to follow the game's action. But why should I complain? The only difference between being manager and playing on the freshman basketball team is that I'm not listed on the roster. There’s just about the same amount of playing time, too. After every game, I'm treated to a Jimmy Johns sandwich and a cookie. I also know the keys to most doors around the gym, which could come in handy if I ever wanted to heist some old basketballs and water bottles. I'm also a member of the "Thunderdome," which is the area at the end of the bench that is responsible for chirping anyone possible and telling pointless personal anecdotes. Being team manager is a large part of who I am. I've spent over 100 hours this season helping out the team. The inevitable question left is, "Why would you do this?" Oftentimes I answer that it's because of committing to a program I joined freshman year, or that it's for IB Diploma service hours. But truthfully, I'm in it for the Jimmy Johns subs.
Shelby Mannes /STAMPEDE
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