66 4 by Erie Square Gazette

The Erie Square Gazette A public forum by and for the students of St. Clair County Community College since 1951

Volume 66.4

March 12, 2015

Good times at Goodfella’s bar and grill

Swing dancing; a heck of a good way to pass the time Mel Buskirk Copy Editor

Got five bucks and some free time on a Thursday night? Consider yourself booked for a good time at Goodfella’s bar and grill in downtown Port Huron. Starting at 7 p.m. every Thursday night for only five dollars a person, you and a partner, or even you by yourself, can head to the second floor of Goodfella’s bar and restaurant for an hour and a half of clean fun by learning how to swing dance. Swing dancing is a style of dancing popular during the roaring twenties, thus fitting perfectly with Goodfella’s speak-easy atmosphere. The dance instructors Lyle Malaski and Kristina Morton have about nine years of combined experience teaching others how to swing dance, but their passion and experience with swing dancing is easily more than double that. Malaski and Morton’s passion and patience can help anyone learn how to swing dance with just a couple lessons. Anyone can swing dance, from college kids to seniors, talented 20’s enthusiasts (such as local personality and jazz singer Alfie Jean) to people with two left feet (like myself). calendar | pg 2 what’s coming up | pg 3

Participants practice their swing dancing moves. Photo credit: Mel Buskirk

Jessie Peart and Alfie Jean dance the night away at their weekly swing dancing class. Photo Credit: Mel Buskirk

Morton said, “I want to add culture into our town and this is a healthy way to do it.” Which you just might need a healthy work out if you get to Goodfella’s early. Goodfella’s happy hour is every

weekday from 2 to 7 p.m. with $2 well and domestic drafts, $3 craft drafts, and half off appetizers. Not only is Goodfella’s food delicious, but they are providing the room for the dance class for free, all

the more reason to enjoy their food. Goodfella’s also has an open mic night on Thursdays starting at 9 p.m. It just goes to show, there is always something to do in downtown Port Huron.

Moving to MTECH | pg 4 Jordan Circus | pg 6

Pub Crawl Facts | pg 7 Womens Basketball | pg 9

ESG Spotlight| pg 12 comics | pg 24

Volume 66.4

Editor-in-Chief Angie Stoecklin Production Editor/Designer Emily Mainguy Managing Editor Chico Hernandez Photo Editor Jenelle Kalaf Copy Editor Melanie Buskirk Sports Editor Tyler Smith Webmaster Alex Hunt Adviser John Lusk

Calendar Community

March 12 - SC4 Charity Hockey Series Alumni vs. Port Huron Police Department Tickets: $5 - 7p.m.

March 12 - SC4 Board of Trustees Meeting MTECH Room 150 - 4:30-6 p.m.

March 14 - The Ultimate Pi Day Achatz Resturant, St. Clair - 9 a.m.-3:14 p.m.

March 19 - “Boy Gets Girl” Fine Arts Theatre - 5:30-7:30 p.m. Recommended for mature audiences (R) $7 Adults, Free for Students with OneCard

March 13 - St. Patrick’s Day Pub Walk Lexington - 6 p.m.-Midnight March 14 - Animal Mania McMorran - Noon-4 p.m. Hands on Activities - Free

March 14 - McMorran Place St. Paddy’s Day Beer Tent- Noon-7 p.m.-Local Entertainment March 14 - St. Patrick’s Day Parade Noon in Downtown Port Huron

March 14 - St. Patrick’s Day Pub Crawl 1-7p.m. - Port Huron

March 23 - Port Huron City Council Meeting 7 p.m. - Municipal Office Center

ESG Contact Info: Email: eriesquaregazette@gmail.com Address: 323 Erie St Port Huron MI 48060 Editor’s Note: All views expressed in editorials and columns contained within the ESG are those of the writer and do not necessarily reflect the views of the ESG or any of its advertisers. We welcome feedback!

Find us at esgonline.org @esgonline facebook.com/ESGonline First copy free; second copy $1

Campus

March 13 - Employment Workshops for Women - Campus - 10 a.m.-Noon

March 20 - “Boy Gets Girl” Fine Arts Theatre - 7:30 - 9:30 p.m. Recommended for mature audiences (R) $7 Adults, Free for Students with OneCard March 21 - “Boy Gets Girl” Fine Arts Theatre - 7:30 - 9:30 p.m. Recommended for mature audiences (R) $7 Adults, Free for Students with OneCard March 22 - “Boy Gets Girl” Fine Arts Theatre - 2-4 p.m. Recommended for mature audiences (R) $7 Adults, Free for Students with OneCard

Calling all Criminal Justice majors

The Criminal Justice club wants to help YOU network Nick “Chico” Hernandez Managing Editor The Criminal Justice club helps the members with many things, networking being a top priority. On March 6, the club did just that. At around 10:30 a.m., Terrance Warner, president of the Criminal Justice club, led the 20 SC4 students into the Detroit Public Safety Headquarters to meet safety officers and learn about internships. “The goal to go down there was getting people ideas on how to prepare for a job. This was a trip for people who were trying to seek employment; this was a way for them to gain experience, “Warner said. Warner mentioned that he was

able to find a job at the Huron House, because of the Criminal Justice club’s advisor Jim Jones. “The whole goal is get people networked in this area, or within the state of Michigan,” Warner added. Warner also knows how busy student schedules can get, having spent two years at SC4 so far, citing that as the reason for having meetings set up the way they are. The Criminal Justice club meets every second and fourth week in the month, and the meeting days are Tuesday and Wednesday 11 a.m. to Noon. The meetings will be held in room 207A in the North Building.

Hunter Garth, 19 and a sophomore studying Criminal Justice, said “I considered the Criminal Justice club, but I would never have time to help out. That being said, I think what they do is great for CJ majors. I’ll be waiting for more events or trips they host in hopes that I can attend.” According to Robert Barks, 23 and pursuing Liberal Arts, the Criminal Justice club “has been around forever” and had “a friend that was in it a long time ago. He enjoyed it, but I don’t know what happened to him,” Barks added, “The meeting times back then didn’t work with my schedule or I might have given it a try for shits and giggles.”

What’s coming up | March 12, 2015

Terror in the Theatre

The 3rd annual Art of Recovery celebration

Jenelle Kalaf Photo Editor

This Thursday, March 12, from 6 to 8 p.m. St. Clair County Community Mental Health is inviting the public to come to the 3rd annual Art of Recovery celebration. For only $5, patrons can enjoy art, poetry, music, and appetizers prepared by the

St. Clair County Community Mental Health hosts art show

SC4 Players to present “Boy Gets Girl”

On Thursday, March 19 through Sunday, March 22, the SC4 Players are to present “Boy Gets Girl,” a play about a New York reporter and her blind date gone wrong. The play, recommended for mature audiences only, follows Theresa Bedell, a successful reporter whose life changes when she goes on a blind date with attractive, funny Tony; but when she feels like her and Tony don’t click, Tony makes it clear that he thinks very differently. At first it seems like Tony just doesn’t know when to give up, but then his obsession becomes dangerous and Theresa has to fight to save her own life. “This is our V.S.P., or very serious play,” Tom Kephart, Theatre Director,

Mel Buskirk Copy Editor

said. “The students get to do a lot of comedies and musicals, so this one is serious.” Kephart also went on to say that he’s happy that they can do a relevant play on domestic abuse to spread the theme of respect. Free admission for SC4 students with Skippers OneCard, $7 dollars for adults and free for K-12 attending with an adult.

Alumni Hockey game at McMorran Charity event coming soon

Nick “Chico” Hernandez Managing Editor Returning once again on March 12 at 7 p.m. to McMorran Place Area is the SC4’s Alumni Hockey Dream Team, who will be playing against the Port Huron Police Department and members of the Marysville PD, Border Patrol, U.S. Customs, and the Sheriff’s Department. The admission fee is $5, and all money raised will be donated to the

Port Huron PD. The game will have two 20 minute periods, and an intermission. During the intermission, spectators will have the opportunity to take pictures with mascots from SC4. Chris Sebastian, Director of Communications and Alumni Relations, said, “It’s a fun event. It’s very informal hockey, it’s fun hockey to watch on both sides. “

participants of St. Clair County Community Mental Health’s programs. St. Clair County Community Mental Health is located at 3111 Electric Avenue, Port Huron. Tickets are $5 and can either be purchased at the door or can be purchased in advance by calling (810) 985-8900.

Volume 66.4 | Campus

It’s moving day

Photo credit: Lily Petit

One stop student center services relocate to M-TEC building Lily Petit Staff Writer Student services are packing up their boxes and walking across campus. The one stop student center is in the process of moving from the Acheson Technology Center to the M-TEC building. The move helps students in a variety of ways according to Vice President of Student Services, Pete Lacey. The M-TEC building is more spacious with an upper and lower level, allowing the majority of student services to be located in one building. SC4’s

testing center is already located in the M-TEC building as well as SC4’s university partners. With the addition of advising in the M-TEC building, communication between the university partners and advising will be easier than ever. Discussing and planning transferring from SC4 to certain universities will now be done with ease. SC4 has been discussing moving student services for the past two years said Lacey. They settled on the M-TEC building after reviewing other colleges

and university student service centers according to Lacey. The M-TEC building’s current occupants will be moving to make space for student services. The radiological technology, health information technology, EMT, paramedic, firefighter and SC4’s workforce development can now be found in the ATC building. Remaining in the ATC building will be SC4’s library and the Blue Water Middle College offices. However, the BWMCA office is moving to a different room

within the ATC building says Lacey. The director of BWMCA, Pete Spencer, confirms that the Blue Water Middle College will be gaining a more spacious room within the building. “All services should be settled in their proper place by this May,” said Lacey. Advising has already moved the M-TEC building. Check-in for appointments is on the first floor, while the advising offices are on the second floor. To keep up with all the moving services and programs visit sc4. edu/move.

Community | March 12, 2015

A different kind of clean

New beauty store opens in Port Huron Jamie Koebke Staff Writer

Harmful chemicals are in most body and beauty products found at the grocery store. Heather McCleary, local business owner of Herbal Panacea, a new business that opened Feb. 9 sells organic body products. The business is located at 1211 Lyon St., Port Huron. “My products are all natural, made with no chemicals,” McCleary said. The store sells products from bar soap to laundry soap, soy candles, lip balm, coconut oil and dried herbs for teas and baths.

Not only does the store sell these products but Heather makes the products herself. Heather said, “I decided to start making my own natural products because of all the chemicals that are in most products these days. Since I have children, I wanted to know what kind of ingredients were in the products that I put on them. What better way to know these things than to make my own products.” Researchers have found that there are some chemicals used in personal care products that could cause cancer, diethanolamine or DEA is one of those products. DEA is a chemically modified form of coconut oil and studies have

The stores facade located on 1211 Lyon St, Port Huron. Photo credits: Jamie Koebke

shown that it might cause cancer. By buying organic coconut oil you bypass the chemically modified part. “The products at Herbal Panacea are made with essential oils so they also have healing benefits,” said McCleary. Organic body products are a way to not only help keep potentially harmful chemicals out of your life, but to help keep the environment clean as well. Most organic products can be expensive, roughly $3-$4 for a tube of lip balm; however, local Herbal Panacea lip balm runs $2 for a tube. Products like the soy candles have multiple uses. “The soy wax is soft and can be rubbed on skin to moisturize

and replenish without the waxy coating of a normal candles,” McCleary said. St. Clair County Community College student Brittany Collins said, “I want to use products that are made from natural ingredients and are more beneficial to my body in the long run than the nonorganic products.” Having a local business, McCleary has a Facebook page for Herbal Panacea that acquired 270 likes in the first three weeks. “This is my dream!” McCleary said. “I can’t wait to spread my business into a bigger store with more natural products to share with everyone!”

Volume 66.4 | Community

Jordan Royal Circus performs at McMorran Death defying tricks delight audiences D.J. Palm Staff Writer Glow sticks and cotton candy filled the hands of parents and children as the Jordan World Circus was in Port Huron entertaining guests at McMorran Place Arena this past Monday. The first act of the night was nothing short of a bravery show as a man only identified as “Bruno” would be by himself in an octagon cage surrounded by 7 tigers sitting patiently on their stools, waiting for direction to execute their tricks. The following act was the always entertaining spinning wheel. A contraption with two circular openings on each end of a steel beam for the entertainers to perform their tricks either on the inside or on the outside of the opening as it swings like a 360 degree pendulum. A daring sight to see was when one of the entertainers put on a blindfold and was able to keep his balance as he would reach higher than the McMorran scoreboard running on the outside frame of the wheel. Even though most of the segments went without errors, the only mishap of the night would belong to Spiderman. The web slinger was hoisted to the ceiling of the arena wrapped in bungee cords. A twirling fall from the rafters swung him right into a light stand where the sound of crashing glass along with audience reaction, echoed off the green brick wall of McMorran. No worries kids.

Dirt bikers set up to perform their stunt inside the “Dome of Death” at McMorran on March 9. Photo credit: DJ Palm

The spinning wheel aerialists at a circus held at McMorran on Monday March 9. Photo credit: DJ Palm

Spiderman was not phased. He would go onto finish his act and uninjured. At intermission, children would be allowed on the circus floor where they could participate in riding ponies, get their faces painted getting their picture taken with a snake

around their shoulders, and of course, elephant rides. Courtney Foster, a 17 year old student at Landmark Academy, attended the event for the second straight year. “I loved the acrobats,” Foster said, “The one girl hung from the bar by her mouth spinning so fast I

cringed.” Molly Lerma, a fifth grade student at Roosevelt Elementary, would differ from Foster’s point of view in saying, “I liked the dirt bike riders in the big metal cage, at the end when one of the riders was a girl that was surprising.”

Community | March 12, 2015

Time to get hammered

Facts to know about Pub Crawl 2015 Angie Stoecklin Editor-in-Chief

This year St. Patrick’s Day falls on a Tuesday, leaving many Port Huron residents to celebrate the holiday on Saturday, March 14 in the form of Pub Crawl. Pub Crawl is an annual St. Patrick’s Day celebration that features a party bus that takes patrons from bar to bar to get their drink on. The event starts at 1 p.m. after the annual St. Patty’s Day parade on Main Street in downtown Port Huron. Party bus wristbands are sold for $10 in advance and $15 on the day of Pub Crawl, according to bluewater.org. For those who wish to participate in Pub Crawl, but for alcohol related reasons cannot drive home after the event, Mainstreet Lodge and Suites located at 514 Huron Ave. will be offering special rates for their rooms; $79.99 for a double bed or a single king or queen, $89.99 for a Jacuzzi suite, and $99.99 for a family suite. Want to celebrate the event but not interested in the party bus? Just join in at the following Pub Crawl locations: - Active Lounge - Brass Rail - Casey’s Pizza and Subs - Figaro’s - Freighters - Fuel Woodfire Grill

St. Patty’s day parade through downtown Port Huron in 2014. Photo credit: Kris Reynolds

- Huron Athletic Club - Jack’s Tavern - Lynches Irish Tavern - McMorran Place heated beer tent - Military Street Music Café - Office Lounge - The Outpost - Rix on the Rocks - Roche Bar - Seekers - Tailgators - Zebra Lounge

While they are not on the

list for Pub Crawl locations, Thumbcoast Brewing Company on Quay Street will be having a St. Patty’s day celebration of their own called the Pub “Stand” Party. The Thumbcoast party features a tap release of a new beer called Dubghaill’s Irish Stout, which will be served on nitro, as well as live music with Celtic Cross. Thumbcoast will also have St. Patrick’s Day dinner specials

including but not limited to Rabbit Stew, Shepherd’s Pie, and Scotch Eggs. For advance tickets to the party bus, go to any participating businesses, the Blue Water Area Convention and Visitors Bureau and the Mainstreet Port Huron office. To reserve a special rate room for Pub Crawl at Mainstreet Lodge and Suites, call (810) 824-4042.

Volume 66.4 | Music

Black Metal bells ringing

A review of Ghost’s album “Infestissumam” Tyler Smith Sports Editor

With music there is always a face to go with the song, like Ed Sheeran with “I See Fire.” We are so used to giving credit to musicians for their talents – which is a good thing cause that’s how they make a living – but in a society where we are so used to hearing an artist say, “This is my song and this is the song that propelled me to the top,” is deconstructive of today’s youth. What is being forgotten in this show of territorial dominance is the music itself. As a society, we give the good enough a slap on

the back and the excellent a weird look along with, “What was that?” One band given the weird look is Swedish Metal band, Ghost. A band modeled like the band KISS, these gentlemen only care about one thing and that is the music. Instead of makeup and skin tight clothes, they are called Nameless Ghouls wearing black hooded cloaks with masks covering their faces and lead by the undead Pope Papa Emeritus the Second. Mocking the Catholic Church and removing their personalities to allow their audiences to focus upon the music itself. This year Ghost released an

album named “Infestissumam.” “I like the keyboards a lot but I mostly find the guitar riffs and solo surprising well-constructed” said David Siglow, 40, Dryden. With rocking riffs and sexy drum beats, this album is worth the ten dollars. Just playing the first track gets you pumped with the slow soothing churchlike chanting then an explosion leading to a steady drum beat and screaming guitars. The third track of the album is like eerie 1700’s ballroom dancing tune drop in to a horror movie directed by Tim Burton. It makes your hair stand up but still rocking. Others, on the other hand, see

it a different way. “All I heard is death, Satan, and anti-God theme. Whoever listens to this is messed up and needs God,” said Jane Warner, 18, from St. Clair. Yes, there are satanic symbols, like the upside down cross within the logo, and songs that contain words Satan and Antichrist -- but guess what else does, the Bible. In a 2011 interview with a Metal blog site Hellbound, CA a Nameless Ghoul said “…The new record is about the presence of the Devil, the presence of the Antichrist. It’s also about how people relate to a deity or God, themes like submission and superstition…”

Sports | March 12, 2015

So very close, but no cigar

SC4 Lady Skippers knocked out in the final round Tyler Smith Sports Editor

St. Clair County Community College Women’s Basketball team dominates land, sea, and air but fails to secure the final victory. In the race to claim the District H Tournament Championship the Lady Skippers destroyed two of the opposing teams but one. On March 3 the sailing Skippers faced off against the flying Henry Ford Hawks once again for the Quarter-finals. With repeating a speedy and overwhelming offensive taking the Hawks out of the sky once again scoring 92 to 46. “I watch the SC4 Skippers more than the Pistons because I know they won’t let me down,” said John Dove, 50, from Yale. Taking down their opponent in the sky, the ladies moved to the next bracket versing the Oakland County Community Raiders at Delta College for the semi-finals on March 5. “The girls were excellent Thursday, they had the speed and the drive in running the Raiders in to the ground,” said Mark Langley, 23, from Port Huron. Running them in the ground, the Ladies did in a sweeping win 81 to 56, a 21 point difference from their quarter-final game. Now, with the golden ticket in hand, the Lady Skippers went on their way to the finals versing

Jasmine Parker (#3), Kendall Stoll (#32), and Brianna Hayes(#24) prepare to defend their side from the Hawks. Photo credit: Tyler Smith

the Livonia College Schoolcraft Ocelots in a battle to see who will go on to the national tournament. Unfortunately, the Skippers offensive push stalled there. “The girls played a close game but they weren’t the hard hitting players they usually were,” said Jane Wiknade, 19, from Kimball. Losing to the Ocelots by ten points, 58-68, the Skippers lost their ticket to nationals but they fought and pursued their goal to

win. This team is phenomenal on the court with strong defensive having overall rebounds percentages around 5% to 7% such as Briann Alspaugh with a 7.5% average (195), Breomi Jackson with a 6.3% average (183), and Jasmine Parker with a 5% average (136). The Skippers also have a hard hitting offensive players putting points on the board, like Leah Humes with an

overall 163 points score and 362 attempts, followed by Madison Valko with 129 scored and 300 attempts. “Yes they didn’t go all the way this year, but they have a dominating year and I love it that there is something we can expect and root on every single year from SC4, which is the Women’s basketball team,” stated James Woolman, 26 from Port Huron.

Volume 66.4 | Opinion

Don’t be a jerk

A quick blurb about being nice Opinion by: Mel Buskirk Copy Editor

Everyone has those days where nothing seems to go right. You lost your wallet. Your car won’t start. You completely spaced about that presentation that you had to give in front of fifty-something people today. Or maybe, you might have some bigger problems to deal with. Your family member goes missing. Your relationship with your significant other is crumbling. Your federal aid is getting cut so you can’t afford college next year. Sometimes, life really sucks. In this world, our friends are on a screen and we broadcast our problems onto a virtual wall for the world to see. We have hundreds of followers and friends. Everyone seems connected, yet we have grown so far apart from each other. Our culture has evolved into a narcissistic machine, where everything is about “me.” Sometimes it’s hard to remember that, despite all of your problems, each and every individual around you has their own. We are all the protagonists to our own stories. Every extra in every scene of your life have their own movies that they star in.

Shannon Dasharion kindly holds the door to the Main Building for Professor Terry Langan. Photo credit: Angie Stoecklin

It is impossible to understand what is going on in everyone else’s lives, even with Facebook and Twitter. We couldn’t possibly know or understand the struggle of each person we walk by the street. We don’t know if they are having one of those days where nothing goes right. So why be a jerk to someone you don’t even know?

I’m not saying that you have to go out of your way to help every passerby that you encounter solve their life’s problems. I’m saying just be a little more considerate of others. Hold open the door for an extra second for the guy trailing behind you. Let that pedestrian cross in front of your car. Give that poor man on the corner the change in your

pocket. The smallest action can lead to a huge positive impact in someone else’s life. You might ask, “So what? How does this benefit me?” Truth is it might not directly help you. It would, however, help someone else out when they’re having a bad day. Wouldn’t you like to be helped the same way if you were in their situation?

Opinion | March 12, 2015

The Millennial misconception Is technology to blame? Opinion by: Angie Stoecklin Editor-in-Chief

This is a travesty to me that people have seemed to have lost the desire to communicate with other humans. Millennials. According to a document But with all of the flack Millenials have by the Council of Economic Advisors gotten from older generations about for the White House Millennials are becoming “lazy and selfish” as said the generation of Americans born by Joel Stein of Time Magazine in his between 1980 and the mid-2000’s. article “The Me Me Me generation,” As a person who is considered a the question of why this perception part of the millennial generation, exists still hangs in the air. I have come to notice that we are Not that long ago, no more than ten looped into the stereotype of being years ago as a matter of fact, most of so dependent on technology that we the simple tasks us humans encounter have become afraid of face to face on a daily basis were done over the human communication. But really, are phone or in person. Examples of this Millennial’s really to blame for this? would be ordering a pizza, calling Technology is something that the movie theater to see when and people in my generation are very what movies were playing, or going dependent on. It’s easy to see when to check your balance and make in what seems like every public transactions at the bank or credit setting people are attached to their union. cell phones to a point where a room Now, not only can you build a pizza packed full of people is close to silent. online using virtual toppings to place

SC4 student Brandon Drinkert, 21, of Port Huron plays on his phone while waiting for class. Photo credit: Angie Stoecklin

your order, the movie theaters have phone apps, and of course, banks provide phone apps too, that even allow you to pay your bills without ever having any human contact at all. So who’s to blame here? Well, really no one as far as I can tell. Businesses want to increase productivity and convenience for their customers and employees. If you can order a pizza online, it saves the time of whoever answers the phone to take your order, get your address, card number, etc. But is convenience going too far? Really it’s not very hard to go to a bank and pay your bills confidentially by talking to another person. I personally still deal with my banking responsibilities in this sort of way simply because the internet, while banks and similar corporations take the highest precautions, is still vulnerable to hackers.

The point I am trying to prove is that no generation or group of people is directly responsible for this lack of human communication. It’s an individual choice. I doubt I’m alone in hoping that my generation is not conceived as “lazy” for too much longer, so I propose a challenge to my fellow Millennials. Next time you are in a public place, be it an elevator, restaurant, bar, or whatever, turn off your phone. The world is not going to blow up if you turn your phone of for an hour. Also, talk to a stranger. Just strike up a conversation with the person closest to you, you may be rejected, but don’t stop. Human communication is one of the things being lost among the flood of technology. You’d be surprised how much of an impression a complete stranger can have on your life and you on theirs.

Volume 66.4 | ESG Spotlight

ESG Spotlight

Fort Gratiot Middle School Angie Stoecklin Editor-in-Chief

former SC4 professor and English teacher at Fort Gratiot. Gierman reached out to me a couple of This issue of the Erie Square issues ago about publishing Gazette features articles from articles by her students to get students at Fort Gratiot Middle School. The following articles are them excited about journalism. all mildly edited to keep the voice So without further ado, we of these students the main focus. present to you, Fort Gratiot Middle School future journalists. These students are in a class Enjoy! taught by Michelle Gierman,

Elementary school students grow up onstage T.E.D.Y. presents The Edge of The Nest Kiera Snyder Guest Writer

“The Edge of the Nest” is a production shown a few weeks ago by T.E.D.Y. (Thomas Edison Drama Youth), and is a unique story of growing up. T.E.D.Y. has lasted for 7 years; each year putting on a different production directed by Renee Barr and is acted by grades 3-5. As many of us know, growing up has many challenges such as the first day of school, meeting a new babysitter, driving, and getting a job. “The Edge of the Nest” tells stories about all these exciting events with countless laughs and numerous characters.

Brianna Snyder, an actor in “The Edge of the Nest” and a fifth grader from Port Huron, had some thoughts on the acting experience. “I played Willimina Hinkle, who is the president of the International Association of Babysitting, and I played Cindy, who was in drivers training,” Snyder said. “I think it was an exciting experience, especially when you would stand onstage or offstage waiting for your turn to go on stage.” The next T.E.D.Y. production will be next year in or around February of 2016. Be on the watch for advertisements and information about Thomas Edison Drama Youth.

Photo Credit: Melissa Snyder

Sports | March 12, 2015

Port Huron kids “Web It Up!” P.H.C.T. presents “Charlotte’s Web” Lauren Poosch Guest Writer On Jan. 29 through Feb. 1, P.H.C.T. (Port Huron Civic Theatre) performed the play “Charlotte’s Web” based off of the story “Charlotte’s Web” by E.B. White. The play was performed at the McMorran Theatre, and was directed by Joe Helton. Kiera Snyder, 12, of Port Huron, said, “I played Spectator 3 in Charlotte’s Web. Being backstage was awesome. Watching everyone play their parts and waiting to go onstage is the best feeling. I really enjoyed being a part of this production and would love to

be in another P.H.C.T. play!” This was Kiera’s first production in Port Huron Civic Theatre and she hopes to be in plenty more. This experience is great for anyone, and everyone is welcome to audition. “Death of a Salesman” is the next play being shown by P.H.C.T. and the show dates are May 8, 9, and 10 at the McMorran theatre. The play is directed by Michael Timm and is produced by Kaari Keivit. There is an upcoming audition for the play “Zombie Prom” this summer for kids of the ages 1318 and the performance will be this August at the McMorran

College athletes get zero

Sports rake in money for colleges Luke O’Hare Guest Writer

college athletes should be paid, there are some reasons that they should not. Many times the The question of should college athletes have scholarships, so athletes be paid has come up they stay and eat at the college once more and in my opinion it for free which, in some cases is a for sure yes. would be a reason for them not College athletes should be to get paid to play. Although paid because of the time and they stay, eat, and learn for effort they put in. Most of free, the athletes should still be the athlete’s time is spent on paid because if they don’t make their sport, so they don’t have it to the pros, they would be enough time to get a job to earn poor, homeless, and most likely money. If they don’t go pro, jobless. then they won’t have enough Some of these athletes don’t money to afford a house or to even get scholarships, so they stay in school, so they should be must pay for everything they getting paid to play. do. This adds to the reason that With the many reasons that these college athletes

Theatre. There are still open positions for the director, musical director, and choreographer. I think that theatre is a great experience for everyone and I strongly recommend auditioning. If you don’t want to be on stage, sign up for backstage work. Civic theatre is a wonderful experience and it teaches you teamwork and how to deal with people.

should be paid. Just staying, eating, and learning at a college might not be enough for some athletes. New York Times Writer Veronica Majerol says, “Big time college football and basketball programs generate billions of dollars a year in TV and marketing contracts, ticket sales, and merchandising. The NCAA (National Collegiate Athletic Association) gets a cut; universities get a cut; coaches get a cut. The only ones not cashing in, it seems, are the players themselves. Under NCAA rules, they’ve been considered “amateurs” who

aren’t allowed to profit from their sports.” This to me raises another question; why can’t amateurs be paid? With these colleges making all of this money, I believe that the athletes should get some of it because if it weren’t for them, the college would not be making that much money. In conclusion, I believe that college athletes should be paid because of the time and effort they put in to their sport. They are also bringing in a majority of the schools’ money so don’t you think these athletes should be paid too?

Volume 66.4 | Sports

Paid to be a player

Should college athletes be paid? Kaden Guizar Guest Writer

There two different sides to “Should college athletes be paid” should they or should they not? I’m here to speak for both sides. There are many reasons they should be paid, most college athletes spend all or most of their time practicing for games. The Richest states that “College football players spend up to 44 hours a week perfecting their craft. The average American only works 40 hours a week.”

So if they spend more time on sports than people do working, they deserve to be paid. Plus that barely leaves the athlete’s time for homework and studying for big tests and exams. Sports like basketball and football bring in millions of dollars making the school money so it is only fair that they get a small portion of the money. In sports like basketball and football, it takes up so much of your valuable time that you don’t have time for a job to buy essentials like food. On the other hand, not all college sports rakes in the big bucks

such as baseball or golf, there isn’t enough money generated to pay the players money. Also, college athletes already do get a lot. They have fame because they are the stars on the field. They also have lots of friends because people want to be friends with stars. Some athletes even get a full ride scholarship which is a lot of money. But that still doesn’t pay for food. In sports like basketball and football, also, there would be arguments on how much they should be paid. Some parents of

the student otherwise known as the athletes may think that the amount of payments is unfair so they would complain. So in their opinion it would be better for no one to get paid because it would be easy and fair. Then again, it is just school and it is all just a game; a big expensive game that makes millions for the school. So, in conclusion, there are two different sides to “should college athletes be paid” and both sides have very valid reasoning. So the choice is yours, should college athletes be paid?

Sports | March 12, 2015

A Purr-fect preview

Tigers fans gear up for new season Andrew Touma Guest Writer

Miguel Cabrera, former MVP and Triple Crown winner, sets up at first base after having foot surgery this In the midst of a chilled winter, summer. He will need to step up if die-hard baseball fans are glued designated hitter Victor Martinez to televisions and radios waiting misses significant time with his knee patiently for baseball season. Sadly, injury. baseball is still a good month away, Martinez, last season’s number with most teams opening on April four hitter and designated hitter fifth or sixth. for the Kittens, placed second in Detroit Tigers fans, such as myself, American League MVP voting. have much to look forward to. Tigers’ fans hope that both MVP From pace of play rules to players bats return to their caliber pop and attempting a bounce back season, it contact. is sure to be a great year for baseball. The largest change is the return of Here are some projections based shortstop Jose Iglesias, who missed on information from baseballmuch of last season with stress reference.com, espn.go.com, fractures in each lower leg. He is bleacherreport.com. known for his flashy defense, and will likely suit up at the bottom of Managerial and Coaching Staff the order. As Brad Ausmus enters his Alongside Iglesias on the left side sophomore season as manager, of the infield is third baseman Nick he enters with almost the exact Castellanos. The former Futures same coaching staff. Omar Vizquel Game MVP showed some pop in his and Dave Clark guided Tiger base bat, but his glove is less than stellar. runners last season with judgment Rounding up the infield is 2014 allthat was above average for a first star Ian Kinsler. The second baseman year coach. Look for them to was voted the best defensive player continue this in the next season. at his position in 2014, and he will Hitting Coach Wally Joyner led the almost definitely hit leadoff for the Tigers to a .277 batting average and 2015 Detroit Tigers. Bench players 731 RBI’s, both were the highest include 2B/SS Austin Romine and in baseball for the 2014 season, 2B/3B Hernan Perez. but with new players and assistant hitting coach David Newhan. Outfield However, the pitching staff is in for A new season begins with a a biggest change. By trading for renovated outfield for the Tigers. all-star Alfredo Simon and Shane Outfielder Yoenis Cespedes is Greene, pitching Coach Jeff Jones has considered by many to be the best more tools in his pitching tool belt. player in this off season’s load. He was acquired this winter in a Infield blockbuster from the Red Sox to As a new season begins, the Tigers presumably play left field. Cespedes shape up with a very similar infield. showcased his throwing arm last

year with 225 putouts and 16 assists. The fans will also get a chance to see newcomer Anthony Gose. The youngster was property of the Blue Jays last season, but an early offseason acquisition brought him to the Motor City. He has struggled, but hopefully a platoon between him and veteran speedster Rajai Davis will help take the load off in centerfield. The final starting spot goes to right fielder JD Martinez. This Martinez had a breakout year last year after signing with Detroit in Spring Training. It will be interesting to see whether the switch from left field to right field weakens his average defense, and whether the 2014 season was just a one-time career year. Other outfielders for this season include last season’s September call-ups Steven Moya and Tyler Collins.

season for the Tigers, and showed his ability to confuse hitters. However, Lobstein will probably be a bullpen pitcher as the Tigers bring in former Red Alfredo Simon, or “Big Pasta,” as he is known was an all-star last season. But many are concerned that he went 3-7 post allstar break. Hopefully he can put the bad ending to his all-star season to rest, and show fans what he is really made of. The final starting pitcher trying for the last rotation spot is lefty Kyle Lobstein. The 25-year-old pitched 39.1 innings last year for the Tigers, and showed fans how good this rotation might be in the future. Whatever the rotation, it will surely challenge hitters this coming season.

Bullpen The Tigers bullpen did not impress last season. With the inconsistency of Joe Nathan and Bruce Rondon missing the entire season due Starting Rotation to Tommy John’s surgery, it was This will be an interesting season difficult to keep a win until the ninth for the Tiger’s starting rotation. inning. They had a 4.01 ERA in 2014, 0.27 Bruce Rondon should be a key higher than the league average. The for this bullpen. The Venezuelan offseason saw Max Scherzer leave was known to throw in triple digits to Washington, and the arrivals of pre-surgery. Joakim Soria will take Alfredo Simon and Shane Greene. up the eighth inning set-up role. With David Price, Justin Verlander, Soria split last season with Texas and Anibal Sanchez occupying the and Detroit, but failed to live up to first three rotation slots, the last two expectations with a 4.91 ERA with are up for grabs. The first competitor the Tigers. One of the lonely lefties is Shane Greene. in the Detroit’s right hand heavy Greene showed promise in his bullpen is Ian Krol. He will mainly be rookie season with the Yankees. He used as a specialist for challenging will most likely grab the fourth or left-handed hitters. The bullpen fifth slot. Another option is lefty Kyle rounds out with Al Alburquerque Lobstein. Lobstein was mainly a fill- and Luke Putkonen. in starter for injured pitchers last

16 The secret to dominating fantasy baseball Volume 66.4 | Sports

Do YOU want to win? Nathan Eccles Guest Writer Will 2015 be the year you will dominate your baseball fantasy league? I’ve analyzed many baseball players in my life and I’ve played for as long as I can remember, so if you listen to me, I will carry you to the top and provide you with bragging rights to kick off the next season. In this article, I will provide tips on what you should look for in each position in order to get the best players. First, before I head into tips for each position, I must tell you, defense doesn’t win championships, hitters do. “Defense doesn’t matter… Explicitly”Mike Harmon. In fantasy baseball, defense doesn’t produce points. In terms of infielders, there are Power Hitters and Leadoff Types who will affect your points and standings in your league. The Power Hitters are Third Base, First Base, and Catcher. When drafting a player from this position, you need someone who can produce Extra-Base Hits (A hit longer than a single), OPS (On-base percentage plus Slugging percentage), and they need to be able to hit with runners in scoring position (second base and third base). Why? This position has a shortage of speed and it offers the best power. These stats are the perfect representation of power because Extra-Base hits show how hard a player can drive a ball, OPS is how many times the batter changes a game, and hitting with runners in scoring position, tallies more runs, and gives more chances to get RBI’s (Runs batted in). If all of these positions can provide this level of offense consistently, you will win consistently. I suggest drafting Yan Gomes, 27, from the Cleveland Indians. Why? The catcher Yan Gomes drives the ball, has posted a .800 OPS the past two seasons (That’s great), and has almost hit three hundred with runners in

scoring position. “A quiet confidence, a guy who’s got strength in his game, whether that’s arm strength, strength in the bat,” Farrell said. Yan Gomes is the power hitter you’re looking for that can also serve as a laterround pick that could help accumulate much-needed points throughout the season. The positions where you need leadoff types are at second base and shortstop. Do not look for power, where power is lacking. These leadoff types need to score runs. Runs are extremely essential to win ball games. Can you win a game scoring zero runs? A player will score more runs than the amount of bases he stole and both have similar point values. Also, don’t generate outs on the base paths. A high stolen base percentage is needed. The perfect leadoff player is someone who will score at will and steal bases with ease, providing the most points possible. Danny Santana, 24, from the Minnesota Twins is a player that should be on your draft list. Why? John Sickles said, “He’s 23, a good athlete, a switch hitter, and versatile” Santana tallied 70 runs in only 400 at bats, he stole 20 bags, and hit .319. At this young age, Santana will only get better, and when hitting .300 in your rookie season and already adjusting to MLB pitchers, you know he is ready to contribute to your fantasy baseball team. Left field, center field, and right field are different than the infielders. You cannot assign all of these to one category. Each position in the outfield serves a different purpose. Right

field consists of upper-body players with light-tower power. Grab power when it’s available. When drafting a player in this position, you should get another power hitter to generate runs. One swing can change an entire game. Center fielders are classified as leadoff types. The center fielder should hit at the top of the order and get on base. This creates opportunities for the stolen base and the chance that he could get driven in on a single. Left field is unique because it’s a mix of both. He needs to produce runs and score runs. If your outfield is shaped like this, you will be able to score points whenever possible. I suggest drafting Marcell Ozuna, 24, from the Miami Marlins. Marcell Ozuna last season put up outstanding numbers in almost every category. “Namely, he’s walking more, striking out less, and hitting for power,” said Jack Weiland. He knocked 80+ RBIs creating opportunities for runs and he scored himself seventy runs. His Extra-Base hit total was fifty and he has a stolen base success rate of 75%. Marcell Ozuna can be the reliable leftfielder your team needs. When drafting the man on the mound, keep this in mind. Pitchers do not garner nearly as many points as

hitters. Why? A hitter’s at-bat totals usually exceed a pitcher’s amount of innings by three times the size. Get pitchers late. You’ll win by far if you have a decent pitching staff and a loaded lineup. This doesn’t mean that you should randomly select pitchers for last. There are many areas where a pitcher can accumulate points. When looking at strikeouts, find a flame baller, and when looking at wins, find a workhorse. There are many ways to win a ballgame with a certain type of pitcher, but the key is to have a balanced staff so you’ll win in every area. When drafting a pitcher, choose late, and create a pitching rotation that can win ballgames in any way. I suggest drafting Alex Cobb from the Tampa Bay Rays. Alex Cobb, 27, is an unnoticed pitcher who can impact a game in every area. He’ll keep his E.R.A. (Earned Run Average) low, he can eat a few innings, and he isn’t even at his peak. According to Ben Reiter, “Cobb, is young, talented and cheap.” So by drafting Alex Cobb, you bought yourself a medium-risk high reward pitcher, who will gather points in bunches. By following this strategy, I guarantee you will win every single time.

Sports | March 12, 2015

Spartans sweep Wolverines off their feet

Michigan State destroys Michigan 80-67 to complete the season sweep Michael Ward Guest Writer

22 years old and from Gary, Indiana stated, “It was a great win for us, for this program,” Dawson, who is on the Michigan The Spartans are looking like State Spartans basketball team, they are ready to play tournament 22 years old, from Gary, Indiana is basketball. On Feb. 17, 2015, shown above. Dawson is leading they came into Ann Arbor, a his Michigan State Spartans to hostile environment, and beat the Wolverines in Ann Arbor for the first a mediocre season, but they are playing like they are ready to make time since 2010. some noise in the tournament. Brendan Dawson led the His guard coming off the bench determined Spartans with a doubleTravis Trice also had a grand day as double, scoring 23 points, grabbing well. Here is his stat sheet: 22 points, 13 rebounds, and shooting an amazing 83% from the floor. Dawson, 7 assists, 6-12 on field goals, and

4-4 from the line, that right there is a good stat sheet. Those two never won at the Crisler Center. The 60 year old and future hall of fame head coach from Iron Mountain, Michigan Tom Izzo said, “I think for those two guys, winning here is a big deal.” Shooting just over 78% from inside the arc, the Spartans dominated the whole game as they never let Michigan take the lead. This game stated that they could make a run in the tournament. Denzel Valentine had a rough game, only scoring six points. If he can get it

going offensively, this team possibly controls their destiny. Right now a 7 seed according to Joe Lunardi, Michigan State will try to make a statement in the Big 10 tournament. If that happens, Michigan State would probably end up as 6 seed. As for Michigan, their season has been brutal. It didn’t help that their stars Caris Levert and Derrick Walton Jr. were out for this game. Unless Michigan wins out and wins the Big 10 tournament, it looks like Michigan won’t even participate in the NIT (Not In Tournament).

review, or become bored. This can get very frustrating for many. If we do get year round schooling, once our two week break is over, teachers would only have to touch up on some items instead of going over the whole lesson. Also, the two weeks off can give students a much needed time for studying and preparing for tests. People can become overwhelmed with paperwork very easily. If a teacher takes one day away from correcting tests, he or she could become a week behind on paperwork. Unfortunately, teachers only get two days off from the weekdays, and a few hours after school for correcting. If the teacher does take this time to finish work that could take away time from family, friends, recreation, and free time. Year round calendars would change that; the two weeks off, like written previously, could be used for the lesson planning, correcting papers, or organization. This would not only be better for the student, but also teachers.

Although, there are many cons with the year round schooling. One of the biggest complaints I hear teachers and parents rant about is the cost. Year round schooling would need money for air conditioning in the hot areas, and heat in the cooler areas. Money would also have to go towards supplies. Teachers would need more paper, pencils, pens, etc, while the students would need a place to work, sports equipment, supplies for the school year, etc. But instead of focusing on the negative, I was always told to focus on the positive; year round schooling would be for the better, not worse. Although many people may think that year round schooling may be worse for our district, it could actually be for the benefit. If we look at the logic behind each reason, a student would have more time for friends, family, clubs, he or she wouldn’t forget everything, and the teacher could get up to date with work and planning.

Should schools be year round? Pros and cons of year round school Payton Wiley Guest Writer

we have to study, read, do the work, research, etc., while parents may be at work. When the parents Could year round schools be for come home, students might still the better, or worse? Many students be working on homework. Once might not like the idea of having to the student is done, he or she may go to school in the summer, but many or may not have to eat dinner, do good things can come from the new sports, church meetings, clubs, or school calendar; there’s more time meetings in general. After they get for family and friends, the student home, it could be time for bed- and won’t forget everything after summer this happens often. With the year from the shortened break, and round calendar, students can do work teachers can get more up to date with after school, then while on break, can planning as students would have spend time doing as they feel. breaks throughout the year. Let’s face it, we all love summer. For starters, many students, myself There’s no school, no homework, included, may feel overwhelmed and everyone can sit back and relax. with school and not have any time With the two months students and for sports, clubs, family and possibly teachers get off, we can, and do, friends. With the year round school’s forget most of what we learned the calendar, on for 45 days and off for year previous. This then takes time 14 days, a student can get caught up out of the teacher’s agenda. The on homework over the weekends teacher would have to recap on a or after school. While on break for lot of things, and possibly reteach two weeks, they can spend time with to the students who don’t know or family. understand the lesson. When all School takes up more of a student’s of this is going on, some students time than a teacher may realize; who do know the lesson would get

Volume 66.4 | Community

Year round schooling

Should schools be year round? Audrey Miller Guest Writer

being able to be up to date with the activities and work they’re doing. With the school system in place now, many of the teachers get buried with work to do and often spend weekends grading student’s papers that they couldn’t get to during the school week. Plus there would be no end of the year cleanout and would provide year round work for lunch ladies and janitors. Now after hearing the pros of year round school, let’s hear some of the cons to it. Even though year round school has many advantages it could not be exactly perfect for all students. It could get in the way of students extra activities, holidays, or vacations causing a lot of make-up work, that if the student doesn’t do could lower their grades. Grades are very important they’re what get us to the places we want to be and a

student’s future depends on them. Another reason that year round school could be a problem is for going to school for three weeks straight could put a lot of stress on a student, lowering their work performance. Year round school is different from normal school in many ways but there is no significant difference in the IQ of students who go to the original school, and the new year round calendar. Students in the year round schools could also become more anxious to go outside instead of learning because of no long term breaks like summer. With them focusing less on school once again, grades could drop. Money for year round schools would cost much more too. It would cost a lot more to keep the schools running year round for cooling

in the summer and heating in the winter. They would have to keep the schools cooled and warmed over the short breaks too. Another problem would be for teens especially. Teens who earn their own money would have a huge problem with this with no summer break, they couldn’t get any jobs. Without jobs they couldn’t earn any money for the things they need like clothes, textbooks if needed, and for high school students, gas for their cars. Teens without jobs might have a harder time getting hired as adults with no experience on their resumes. Well now after hearing the bright side and the not so good sides of year round school, you can decide for yourself. What would be the right thing for the education of American students? What will you choose?

others and always reached out to those in need, especially the new kids at school. Almost everyone was 17-year-old, Rachel Joy Scott was kind to Rachel and she returned the the first student to be killed at the favor. Many kids reacted differently Columbine High School shooting in to Rachel’s story. 1999. She knew that she wouldn’t Some of the kids cried and sadly live long and that she was going others laughed at how Rachel was to die young, but not before she killed. Perhaps they just couldn’t created a challenge. deal with that emotional state and The challenge is to start a chain needed to add some humor for reaction of kindness. Rachel’s words them so they didn’t feel so sad, at for that challenge are, “I have this least that’s my guess. My reaction to theory that if one person can go out Rachel’s story was that I was sad to of their way to show compassion, hear how she died and knowing that then it will start a chain reaction of she made that challenge I decided the same. People will never know that I would take part in it. how far a little kindness can go.” Rachel Joy I believe was a very Rachel was kind and courteous to special girl. The way her story

touched my heart was extraordinary. If you were to just tell me her name I probably would’ve forgotten her by now, but at the assembly they told us the whole story. I will never forget about the girl that believed that she could change the world but she couldn’t do it alone. She was unique in her own way. Sadly she somehow knew that she wouldn’t live a long and happy life. She knew that her time was coming soon. And she didn’t deny it. I honestly hope that while she was here that she lived her life to the fullest. I could explain how much she helped me even though she isn’t here with many more pages but I won’t. Please help in Rachel’s

challenge. She has done so much for everyone that she saw and knew and I just want to tell everyone about what an extraordinary girl she was and is. Just because she is gone doesn’t mean she is still not with us in our time of need. I must also say that Rachel’s family did a heck of a good job raising her. So thank you for shaping her into the fantastic girl she was. So, show kindness and compassion to others because you never really know what is happening to them and what their life is like. Always lend a hand to those in need, and always remember that you could start a chain reaction of kindness.

Year round school is a topic sweeping across the nation. Some argue over whether this would be a good idea or not for the education of America’s youth. Here are some of the bright sides to year round school. After the long summer, kids in the original school calendar forget much of the work and things they’ve learned. If this happens they could have trouble learning new skills involving the things they’ve already learned but have forgotten. In a year round school system, short breaks would make it easier to remember the skills they’ve learned and might need for future experiences. Another reason for the year round school program possibly being a good idea for schools is the teachers

Rachel’s Challenge - you can make a difference Rachel’s story Luna S. Wahowske Guest Writer

Community | March 12, 2015

Rachel’s Challenge

An organization put together to help put bullying to an end

Evie Clause Guest Writer

actions could affect one another. I really enjoyed this assembly.” Rachel accomplished her dream and is still Rachel’s Challenge, a group put helping others around the world together based on a sad tragedy today. to try and put an end to bullying, Rachel had many dreams about visited Port Huron Schools on how to spread kindness to others Tuesday, Feb. 10 to try and prevent and how to make the world a better bullying in not only schools, but place for everyone. everywhere in the community. After the tragic event, one day They started this after the horrible her dad was looking through her massacre happened at Columbine stuff and happened to find an old High School in Colorado on April crumbled up English paper that was 20, 1999, where 12 students and never turned in behind her bed. He 1 teacher were murdered, and 21 opened it up, and the paper was all others were injured by two students about how to spread happiness and who had entered the school during how to be kind. the day planning to hurt many. It also included five goals that we Rachel always knew she was going could try to accomplish. Those goals to make an impact and change the were, “dream big and believe in world. Fort Gratiot Middle School yourself, be kind to others, practice student Lauren Poosch, 13, from positive gossip, show appreciation Port Huron said, “It was a very to those you love, and be the inspirational and touching speech. answer.” It makes you think about how your

Rachel also wanted the reader to start a chain reaction, once you start doing Rachel’s challenges, try to get others to join you. Rachel wanted others to be inspired, touched, and helped by her and her message. She had drawn a hand on the back of her dresser when she was younger and inside she wrote “These hands belong to Rachel Joy Scott and will someday touch millions of people’s hearts.” She has made a large impact on the lives of many. Rachel was always such a happy person that had big dreams. She knew she would make them come true. Rachel was a strong person and she stood up for not only herself but others. She would sacrifice herself for another person. A few days after Rachel’s funeral, Rachel’s dad got a strange call from a man he didn’t know that said he

Do you accept the challenge?

Middle school students learn about Rachel’s Challenge Karlee McNutt and Amelia Suiter Guest Writers On Tuesday, Feb. 6, an assembly was held at Fort Gratiot Middle School for all students and staff who attend FGMS. Colleen Kirk, guest speaker, came to talk about Rachel’s Challenge and to inform the students about kindness and Rachel’s dream. Rachel was a normal teenage girl who attended Columbine High School. She loved to help people who were being bullied or didn’t have many friends at her school. But she knew she was going to die young. April 20, 1999, the worst school

shooting occurred in U.S history. Rachel was the first to die, along with 12 other students and teachers. Rachel’s parents were devastated. Rachel believed in compassion and kindness. She had a theory; a theory that she could start a chain reaction of kindness, that she could change the world. Rachel challenged the world to do five things that would start a chain reaction: look for the best in others, dream big, choose positive influences, speak with kindness, and start your own chain reaction. Most students at FGMS thought

that the assembly would help them start a chain reaction of kindness. Even if it’s as simple as smiling to someone you don’t know. Simple act of kindness could turn a bad day into a good day. “I think Rachel’s Challenge was very inspiring. I think that it will help me start a chain reaction of my own. Although it was helpful, it was sad to learn about Rachel and how she died,” said Jessica Remick, 12, of Fort Gratiot. Another student at FGMS, Andrew Raymo, 11, of Fort Gratiot, said, “There was a great message behind

was having a reoccurring dream about his daughter and it was very odd, but Rachel’s father never really thought twice about it until he picked up his daughter’s backpack from the police station. Rachel’s dad went through her bag, only to find a drawing in the back of a notebook that had 13 teardrops coming from a pair of eyes in the sky. This picture described the man’s dream. The 13 drops represent the number of lives that were taken by two former students at that horrifying event. Near the bottom of the drawing was a rose growing, as if the tears were creating new life and helping someone or something. Rachel was a very inspirational girl that has helped many by spreading kindness and love to all. She wanted to start a chain reaction, a reaction of compassion, love, and hope to help others.

Rachel’s Challenge and it will help me start a chain reaction of my own to help the world become a better place.” Most students at FGMS thought that the presentation helped them become a better person and care for the world and its people in a better way. The halls of Fort Gratiot Middle School have become a kinder environment for students and staff because of Rachel’s Challenge and we hope everybody around the world will make an effort to do the same.

Volume 66.4 | Community

Rachel’s chain

Rachel Scott’s hands touch the hearts of students at Fort Gratiot Middle School

Paige Cronce and Amber Sharrow Guest Writers

On Tuesday, February 10, Colleen Kirk came to fort Gratiot Middle School to share with students about a young woman named Rachel Scott; a girl whose heart was as big as her dreams for the world. She wanted to affect the lives of many people, but she had a feeling that she would die at a young age, and she did. On April 20, 1999, Rachel and 12 others were killed in the columbine high school shooting Denver Colorado. Their families were absolutely devastated. Many students feel that it was a great assembly that made many kids realize how important it is to treat others with kindness. Paige Cronce, 12, from Port Huron, is one of the students that have recently been chosen to be in the F.O.R club, which stands for “Friends of Rachel.” “I think the F.O.R club is a great program,” said Cronce, “we are just starting up, but we plan to change our school for the better.” The F.O.R. club at Fort Gratiot Middle School has been doing things to make others smile, like putting notes on their lockers. “Ever since the assembly, people have been acting nicer and trying to make a difference,” said Fort Gratiot Middle School student Amber Sharrow. And she’s not the only one that

thinks so; many students have seen a change in the attitudes of their peers. “After the Rachel’s challenge presentation, I have seen more people go out of their way to help others, and [they are] trying to be more like Rachel,” says Payton Wiley, another

Rachel Scott (1981-1999) Denver, CO

student from Fort Gratiot Middle School. Also many people were inspired to follow their dreams. During the assembly, the students learned about how Rachel wanted to make a difference in the world. As a result, people have been coming

up with ways to do the same. If only everyone could hear the life-changing story of Rachel Joy Scott, this world would be so full of love. So, as Rachel advised, let’s start a chain reaction of kindness to make the world a better place.

Community | March 12, 2015

Rachel’s Challenge

An organization to help fight against bullying Isabella Harrison Guest Writer

On Tuesday Feb. 10, an assembly titled, “Rachel’s Challenge” took place at Fort Gratiot Middle School. This assembly told stories about not only the tragedy that happened but the story of a young girl, Rachel, and her stories about spreading kindness. Rachel Joy Scott was the first victim of the Columbine High School shooting that took place on April 20, 1999. Sadly, the two students that started the shooting took her life along with 12 others. But Rachel’s legacy lived on.

When Rachel’s dad was moving all of her belongings out of her room, he found a crumpled up piece of paper. The paper was for her English class and was all about spreading kindness to others. Also in her paper, Rachel included 5 challenges that she challenged the reader to do. The 5 challenges are dream big and believe in yourself, be kind to others, practice positive gossip, show appreciation to those you love, and be the answer. Rachel also wanted the reader to start a chain reaction, once you start doing Rachel’s challenges, try to get others to join you.

Rachel was always spreading kindness to others in her school and always had good ways to look at life. A few days after Rachel’s funeral, Rachel’s parents got a call from a man they didn’t know saying that he was very sorry about what happened to their daughter. He also told them about a dream he had. Her parents didn’t think much about what the man that called had said, until they got another call from the police saying they could come pick up Rachel’s backpack. After her dad got Rachel’s backpack, he looked at the last thing she had written in her journal. He was shocked

to see what was on the page. It was a drawing of Rachel’s eyes crying onto a rose, the same way the man had described his dream. When he looked closer, he counted 13 tears, which is how many people were killed in the shooting at her school. There are so many great stories from the “Rachel’s Challenge” assembly, including her ideas on starting a chain reaction about being kind to everyone. Rachel wanted to touch the hearts of millions of people, and she did. Her essay for her English class and her inspiring quotes are continuing to inspire people all over the world to treat people with kindness.

I would recommend this game to anyone who likes to play left for dead or wants to have the feeling of David and Goliath fight. This game makes you realize how small you actually are with all of the monsters that can kill you and your team in seconds. If the monster is used correctly it can be virtually unkillable. But that can be the same for the hunters. This game has no story mode, though as long as you play this game with WiFi it is great, but if you play solo mode it is very hard because the artificial intelligence will hold

you back from killing the monster, by getting stuck or never using their abilities correctly. Some people say that the game coming out with over 70 different Downloadable Content’s, they feel like they are being held back from content. The developers say that the reason is because they didn’t finish the content in time for the release of the game. But all and all the game is good graphic wise. And although the game play might start to feel repetitive after 2-3 hours of playing, the game is fun and I would suggest this game to all of my friends.

One of the most anticipated games of 2015 Evolve made by Turtle Rock Studios Austin Gardner Guest Writer

The hunters are on the planet shear on the ”far arm of the galaxy.” The hunters were hired to kill the Evolve is one of the most monsters by colonists that want to anticipated games of 2015. The protect their homes. The game is a developer of the “Left for Dead” fairly gore filled game with all the series, a game about cooperation monster blood. That’s why it is rated to get through a level filled with ‘M’ for mature with all the gore and zombies. Experience with this kind the cursing. of cooperation helped them produce IGN rated the game a 9/10. the game called “Evolve.” In this Gamespot rated it 8/10 and Steam game, there are five players, four are rated it a 6/10. Evolve placed hunters trying to kill the monster number one on the Uk software (there are 3 to choose from) that sales chart. IGN stated that “it is rare needs to evolve by eating other NPC for a big multiplayer game to feel so animals. considered and intelligent.”

Volume 66.4 | Entertainment

America’s most courageous sniper A different look at war Kaine LaChappelle Guest Writer

and get to his truck, he’s shot in the leg. The truck starts to take off without him, so he drops his U.S Navy SEAL Chris Kyle rifle, his helmet, and his bible to (played by Bradley Cooper) catch up to the truck. is sent to war after he is In the beginning of the movie, outraged with terrorist attacks it shows Chris and his dad happening on his own land. On hunting for deer. After Chris his four tours he learns to have shoots a deer, he runs over to exceptional accuracy and earns it and drops his gun in the dirt. the nickname “Legend” after His dad yells at him to never saving countless lives on the leave your rifle in the dirt. Even battlefield. though, in the end he does. After Kyle earns this nickname, After his long plane ride home, his reputation isn’t just spread he can’t stop thinking about the around his colleagues; his war. When he’s at home, sitting enemies also get to know his by his TV, he hears the sounds name. He becomes their prime of gunshots and explosions but target because he has killed nothing is playing. So he turns many of their soldiers. While he to a counselor at a local hospital did not like to kill, he did it to to try and help. While he’s there, protect him, his brothers, and his counselor has him talk to his country. other veterans that have been For the short amount of injured. He finds it comforting time he is at home, he faces talking to them about war and quandaries between him and how they got hurt. So to get his his family. His wife (played as mind off war, he takes them out Sienna Miller) wants him to shooting. But one day, he takes come home and give their two out a man for shooting that has kids a father. some mental disabilities that he Kyle however, has other plans. was unaware of. That man ends He wants to complete one last up killing Chris Kyle on February mission before resigning. On 2, 2013. He thought Chris was a his fourth and last tour, he threat to him and everyone else. completes that mission. While This just proves you can’t under fire, he calls his wife and see everything therefore, you says “I’m ready to come home.” can’t stop everything. I think On his way back to a truck, a Bradley Cooper and Sienna giant sandstorm hits. No one can Miller played very well as a see a thing. Scrambling to see couple. In the movie, Sienna

thinks about leaving him, which did actually happen in real life. There are some pretty gory or violent parts that didn’t actually happen. In the movie, it shows Chris Kyle forcing himself to shoot a very young male who was trying to throw a grenade at fellow Marines. Overall, I think this is a very

good movie. It shows that war isn’t good like some people make it seem. War can leave you seeing things and doing things you don’t want to do. In the end, it can have you scarred. I would recommend this movie to anyone that knows what war actually is and that soldiers have to do what they must.

Entertainment | March 12, 2015

The sea comes to shore The SpongeBob Movie: Sponge out of water Caleb Vincent Guest Writer

Life is great in the Bikini Bottom for SpongeBob Squarepants (Tom Kenny) and his friends Patrick (Bill Fagerbakke), Squidward (Rodger Bumpass), Mr. Krabs (Clancy Brown), and Sandy (Carolyn Lawrence). However when the Secret Recipe for Krabby Patties mysteriously disappears, the Bikini Bottom goes into panic. SpongeBob must join forces with the mischievous Plankton (Mr. Lawrence) and go above water to battle the evil Burger Beard (Antonio Banderas), who has his own plans for the delicious delicacies. SpongeBob and Plankton build a time machine to travel through time in hopes of finding the secret recipe. But when they find themselves meeting a magical dolphin named Bubbles, who keeps the whole universe in balance. When they are told to watch over in place for the dolphin, they end up destroying a planet. Once the two of them return to the Bikini Bottom, it is in complete chaos. So SpongeBob and his team of friends emerge to shore with their friend Bubbles help. Bubbles give them the ability to breathe on land. They

use a magical book to give themselves super powers to defeat the evil Burger Beard. They have an intense battle with Burger Beard. During their struggle, Burger Beard uses his pirate ship/restaurant that is fully equipped with multiple cannons. He fires at SpongeBob missing most, when a cannon ball slips through the ring upon SpongeBob’s head and gets trapped in a bubble. SpongeBob uses his bubble ability to trap all the cannonballs in bubbles. When Burger Beard tries to escape in his “ship on wheels,” the whole team starts to chase him down. Once they caught him Plankton, with his massive body and super strength, drop-kicked Burger Beard all the way to a small island. The team returns back to the Bikini Bottom with the secret recipe and everything goes back to normal. Plankton even goes back to his thievish ways and tries to steal the secret recipe. So the team emerges victorious from their intense battle with thee evil Burger Beard and everyone is happy, well except Burger Beard of course. This is an excellent movie for everybody. I highly recommend it; the SpongeBob Movie is an Adventure/Comedy and is fun for all ages.

Director: Paul Tibbitt Release date: February 6, 2015 (USA) Music Composed by: John Debney Screenplay: Glenn Berger, Jonathan Aibel Story by: Paul Tibbitt

Volume 66.4 | Comics