October 2016 by Portage Northern Light

VOLUME 47 ISSUE 2

the northern light

WHO HAS YOUR VOTE? TWill this election benefit the US or burn down the system?

Portage Northern High School - 1000 Idaho Ave - Portage, MI 49024 - www.portagenorthernlight.com

2016-17 Staff Cortney Chow, Editor in Chief Carter Landis, Sports Editor Ben Lewis, Chief Designer Meredith Ablao, News Editor Keegan Tenney, Staff Writer Megan Rinock, Copy Editor Lexi Kava, Copy Editor Allison Mckenzie, Feature Editor Megna Joshi, Website Editor

Letter from the editor PNHS,

With the election just 9 days away when this edition comes out, our hope is to spark discussion, debate, and discourse about the candidates and the political process in general. Whether you want to make American great again or feel like Bernie had your heart but Hillary would have your vote, hopefully you find something here that interests you. Also, before anyone gets out of control, no real American flags were harmed in the making of this cover. The concept conveyed by the image, however, is very real. I was hoping to show the climate of the current election, where citizens feel torn between two candidates and instead of looking fully at all of the issues, focus on one aspect and make a decision even they might not wholeheartedly believe in. Very few people feel optimistically about this election, but we should. Our legislative process makes it nearly impossible for the dystopian future each candidate paints of America if their opposition wins to come to fruition. It’s probably going to be okay no matter who is elected. The most important thing is that we don’t lose our voice: my sincere hope is that you will use this election as a platform to express your opinons and either vote or encourage others to if you aren’t old enough. You have a voice and your voice matters. Even though you’re just one person, one vote can change the election, and more importantly, one voice can change the world. -Cortney Chow, Editor in Chief

Lyndsey Case, Social Media Manager

pnlight2016

Abby Seeber, Opinion Editor

@northern_light_news

Cameron Schaefer, Photographer Lily Antor, Entertainment Editor Lexi Gavlas, Spotlight Editor Demi Jensen, Staff Writer Lexi Doll, Staff Writer Sal DelVecchio, Staff Writer Deidre Crowell, Staff Writer Mackenzie Brey, Staff Writer

@pnlight

Policies T

he Northern Light in print and online is the official student-produced media of news and information published/produced by PNHS journalism students. The Northern Light has been established as a designated public forum for student editors to inform and educate their readers as well as for the discussion of issues of concern to their audience. It will not be reviewed or restrained by school officials prior to publication or distribution. Advisers may -and should- coach and discuss content during the writing process, but ultimately decisions are left up to the editorial leadership board. Because school officials do not engage in prior review, and the content of the Northern Light is determined by and reflects only the views of the student staff and not school officials or the school itself; its student editorial board and responsible student staff members assume complete responsibility for the content of the publication. To submit a letter to the editor, request coverage for an event, or contact the staff. As a Michigan Interscholastic Press Association member publication, the Northern Light adheres to the highest standards of journalistic integrity. Photos, art, and other such visuals are either original projects created by the Northern, designated for Fair Use, or part of the public domain. In rare instances, we may use other media with the owner’s express written permission.

Issra Said, Staff Writer

2 ABOUT

October 28, 2016

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Table of Contents 04 05

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“I don’t understand why people can’t just mind their own business and go on with life”

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Earle has spent over 7,000 hours underwater exploring multiple aspects of the ocean.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

A Day in the Life of Grace Beam

What’s the biggest challenge you face coming to school each day?

I’m honestly pretty insecure about my looks. All of these girls are stick thin, have perfect makeup, and look like it’s effortless. Being a chicana, I’m a very curvy girl, but I work out a lot just to try to be like those girls. It’s gotten a lot better since middle school, which is good. I’ve been working with body positivitity gtoupd snf life support groups in gerneral to make sure other people can realize that they’re perfect and beautiful in the bodu they have.

How does your social anxiety affect your everyday routine?

lexi gavlas (11) ||spotlight editor

Describe your after school life.

I have a job at Family Fitness, and I work in the daycare. The kids there make me so happy! They’re all so sweet and optimistic, and I kinda wish a lot more people had that mindset these days. Shane Barrera and I started the school’s GSA, and it’s made me incredibly excited. On National Coming Out Day, we had so many kids come in to our little family and come out in a multitude of different sexualities and genders, even some that were questioning and just wanted to get it off of their chest! Most days after school I’m listening to music and doing homework (Oddly enough, I’m into Punk Rock music and Emo Music), considering I’m in a bunch of IB and AP classes. The homework never stops!!

It’s gotten much better thanks to my freinds and boyfriend. Since last year, I’ve been more outspoken and I’ve been trying to talk to reandom kids in the school to help get over it. It definitely impacts my presentations in class, making them pretty scary. Over the summer, I coached a soccer team and worked as a nanny, so being queit and shy wasn’t really an option-which I am so glas about!! It helped me so much that I can’t puit it into words.

Describe some of your friends at school and how they impact your everyday routine.

Well, my best friend is Lily Griffioen and she impacts my routine greatly. By best friend, I mean sister and someone I probably couldn’t live without. On good days, she makes them even better with her stupid jokes and funny pictures she sends me. On bad days, she’s there for me until the sadness goes away. We’ve been best friends for 6 years and neither of us plan on leaving any time soon. We don’t have any classes together anymore, but our lockers are 3 spaces away from each other and we talk every single day. One of my other very close friends is Natalie Eidson. She’s basically the person I can talk to in person and actually let my emotions flow free, especially when it comes to boy problems. We both know how to make each other happy (it’s almost always with food) but we also know how to push each other’s buttons, which can make some days pretty funny. Lastly, my close friend/ little brother/ also big brother is Hayden Vander Weele. We’ve been friends since I was in 4th grade (8 years!), and he’s the best guy friend I could’ve ever asked for. On days when my boyfriend and I are fighting, he’s there and on my side. When things are going great, he’s happy too. We vent to each other and go to each other for advice- relationship or otherwise. We sit together at lunch and I go to his football games (I even hug him afterwards which can get a little gross, but I mean hey. Sweat won’t kill me.) Something about my friends that makes me laugh is they all call me “Mom”. I’m very protective over them, and if they ever need something then I probably have it. I’ve asked all of them and they all gave a definite YES, I am definitely the Mum friend!

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What subjects interest you the most? Any plans for the future?

Business is pretty interesting to me, considering I grew up in a very business driven household. I’m in AP Statistics right now and that’s going to help me in the business world also. The art class I’m in will help me with advertising and marketing also! I’m hoping to go to a 4 year college in the future. I currently belong to a website called CaptainU, and it markets me as an athlete to many different colleges and gives me an easy way to talk to them and research them. I’m currently on recruiting lists for golf, and my top choices are University of Tiffin, Citadel, and WMU. They’re all pretty far apart from each other, but I’m happy I’ve got options.

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Raining PN’s New GSA Club mackenzie brey (11) || staff writer

In a world where people are constantly focusing on the negatives, fighting, and standing up for the wrong reasons, some students at Portage Northern have created a safe place for a cause that needs a little support. The GSA (Gay Straight Alliance) Club has been at PN for a short time of less than a quarter of the school year, but has made a world of a difference by giving kids with nobody to go to, a safe group of people willing to listen. The club leader Shane Barrera (12) had a lot to say about what the club means to him. “Being gay, the club means I can find other members of the LGBT community, for whom I can show support and get support from when I need it,” says Barrera. He tells us that, “we want to create a safe and diverse environment for anyone and everyone, not just a certain race or certain sexuality.” Club member Grace Beam (11) tells us that she hopes “the GSA will spread awareness” and “give a support system to anyone who has feelings they want to talk about.” She also wanted to let students at

PRIDE

Northern know that “everyone is welcome, not just gay students.” On October 11th, which was National Coming Out Day and GSA Club was booming. The members shared videos of people coming out and shared their stories with each other. With barely enough standing room, the positive spirit was overwhelming. Joel Jensen (9) said that “the club was really tense because it was one of the first meetings. We were just warming up to each other.” He also says, “This club is a good thing. It gives everyone an understanding group to come out or just continue to have a support system and it is making so much progress.” Though new, this club will continue to make a positive impact on the students here at Portage Northern. Club supervisor, Ms. Paynich, has some major ideas for the club this year. She tells the students of Portage Northern that “the ur biggest goal this year is to make sure that the GSA is a safe space for our LGBTQA+

students to come and share their stories or their frustrations. We also want to take on the task of educating PN students about queer history/culture as that tends to get overlooked in our curriculum.” She also is proud to be the lucky supervisor for this club. She says, “I really wanted to be the GSA supervisor because I myself am gay and I’ve been wanting to do something positive with our queer students for quite a while. I am (obviously) very big on education and so I want to use the GSA as a way to educate Huskies on queer struggles that we have had and continue to have so that the next generation takes up that fight for equality and a better tomorrow. But I also want to make sure that the GSA is a space where we can learn about our history so we can really appreciate how far we’ve come over the past 40 years as a nation because it really is quite incredible!” All in all, with the help of Ms. Paynich and the dedicated students of PN, the GSA is here to stay.

The Ocean Feels Pain, too: Dr. Earle visits community cameron schafer (12) || photographer

On October 6th, the nation’s leading oceanographer and activist, Dr. Sylvia Earle, paid a visit to the people of Kalamazoo and surrounding areas who are interested in learning about the ways in which the ocean has transformed over the decades. Earle is not only an oceanographer, but an author, lecturer and Explorer in Residence of the National Geographic Society who was named as Time Magazine’s first “Hero for the Planet” and a “Living Legend” by the Library of Congress. She came to speak at Chenery Auditorium as a part of Western Michigan University’s Science and the Human Endeavor Speaker Series. Directing her focus towards a new era of ocean exploration and dramatic changes in the ocean’s chemistry, biodiversity, and underwater ecosystems, Earle spoke with both enthusiasm and concern. From the minute Earle’s eyes open in the morning until the minute her head hits the pillow at night, she works tirelessly to inform the public, protect all living things and make new discoveries that could potentially save future generations of life under and above the waves of the oceans. At the age of eighty Renowed oceanographer Dr. Sylvia Earle lectures to a crowd one, Earle has spent over of people at Western Michigan University regarding the 7,000 hours underwater health, or lack there of, of the oceans on Earth. exploring multiple aspects

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of the ocean. Earle has come to the conclusion that unhealthy habits consistently practiced by humans around the world have the greatest negative impact on the oceans. It is important for every human to be educated about the processes that take place in the oceans and how every move they make has the ability to affect the patterns. With knowledge comes change, and with change comes a healthier place for humans to thrive. Believe it or not, the oceans contain 97% of Earth’s water and provide anywhere from 50-70% of Earth’s oxygen. In reality, what happens on one side of the planet affects the entire planet. Unhealthy habits on land are just as likely to affect the patterns of the oceans, which Earle makes clear in her speech. According to Earle, “We are all witnesses to the most remarkable changes in human history.” But just because humans are witnesses, does not mean that they are not capable of shifting the direction that the ecosystems are heading towards. For the current and future generations of people on this planet to continually thrive, at least 30% of the oceans need to be maintained and protected, as reported by Earle. So why does the world need to protect oceans? Why do people’s habits on land and on water matter every day? What is in it for the people? These are all questions that come to mind for the vast majority of people reading this. Put this way, if humans want to continue carrying out normal day-to-day functions such as breathing, eating and sleeping, more must be done now to preserve what is left of the oceans and help mend what has been broken. Greater caution needs to be taken when it comes to approaching the oceans and wildlife because just like humans, they too are susceptible to toxins and sensitive to changes in their environment. For more information on Earle and her work, specifically Mission Blue, visit: www.mission-blue.org and www.achievement.org/autodoc/page/ear0bio-1 and check out two of her many publications: The World is Blue and Blue Hope: Exploring and Caring for Earth’s Magnificent Ocean.

October 28, 2016

NEWS

Not Clowning Around keegan tenney (10) || staff writer

Illustration by Megan Rinock

The month of October is renowned for scary things, but recent reports have shown the extreme side of this festive month. Fall being the time of year for all things scary, recently, people have been getting out of hand. The particular people that have fueled the nation with fear is none other than clowns. Lately, everyone has probably seen many pictures and videos of clown sightings nationwide-including the US. Throughout the beginning of the widespread “terror,” clowns would supposedly come out of the woods late at night. Children came up missing due to clowns promising them money or candy to get them into the woods. Not everyone believes in these clown stories, but the pictures and videos all over social media are hard to prove wrong. “I know this whole thing is real, but some of the videos might be fake,” said Tori Jackson (10.) As seen mostly on Twitter, people post pictures and videos

6 NEWS October 28, 2016

using the hashtag #ClownSightings or go to all the accounts that were made specifically for reposting said videos and pictures of clown sightings. Recently, in the Haverhill neighborhood, some dispatchers spotted a clown with a knife roaming around. “I saw cop cars go past my house, and my dad was walking the dog and said he heard people talking to the cop about how a clown was chasing them with a knife,” said Elise Voinaroski (10.) With the Haverhill neighborhood not far from Northern, there are students that walk to and from school. For clowns to be roaming around such a highly populated area, it leaves our students with fear. “I don’t enjoy it, they make me feel scared,” added Voinaroski. Even more recently, a prior Loy Norrix student was arrested for creating a fake clown account on Facebook, threatening to shoot

up either his own school, or Kalamazoo Central. “Shooting up KC or Norrix tomorrow, maybe both,” a post that got deleted later that night stated. Involving the news, the police, and many worried parents, a lot of students didn’t attend school the day the threat was announced to be. With the victim only being 17 years old, WWMT announced that he would be held in jail for several years. Although there may not have been many sightings very close to Portage, everyone should still remain on the lookout for what is to come of these creepy clowns. Although some seem harmless, or some may be jokes, we never know who is going to do what. Be aware of the bright colored creeps invading the backstreets of many towns on Halloween.

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The IMPORTANCE of

VOTING

EVERY EVERY V O T E MATTERS MATTERS

28%

of the students at Portage Northern said they would choose not to vote if they could, to protest the election. It’s no secret this year’s presidential election is definitely an interesting one. Between Clinton’s criminal actions and Trump’s mouth, many Americans have decided not to vote, thinking it’s the best option for them. In reality, it’s one of the worst things an American can do, especially in the situation we’re in right now. Even if both of the candidates are not appealing, everyone still needs to vote. This election is the most important election we have had in a very long time, because the choice we make will put America on a course that could be great or disastrous. This is why it is so important to watch the rallies and debates, because the mainstream media tells the truth about 1% of the time. CNN will spend an hour on Trump’s locker room comments from 11 years ago, and only 15 minutes on Clinton’s wikileaks and emails, which compromised national security. The media is also paid to bash Trump, lie for Clinton, and purposely exclude third party candidates. This is wrong because third party candidates are in this race as well. The media is corrupt and has been making shady claims about certain candidates. It’s up to Americans to do the hard digging and find out that there’s a petition with thousands of signatures on it to include third party candidates in debates and coverage, and that Trump isn’t the only candidate who mocks people; Clinton has mocked rednecks, Christians, Sanders supporters, and Latinos.

IT’S USE Y O U R VOICE VOICE

up to Americans to find what the media hides, like Russian leader Vladimir Putin warning America that Hillary Clinton’s election will result in a massive war, possibly World War 3. Americans need to be equally informed on both candidates to make the right choice, not voting is never the answer. “It is your right as an American citizen to participate in voting that could change things either locally or nationally,” said Lexi Miller (11). If half the country decides that they don’t want to take part in this election, that’s half the country not using their voice nor their rights. Not partaking translates to not caring. Even those who can’t vote can still make a difference by using social media to spread information to support one of the candidates. Watch the debates, stay informed, and most importantly vote on November 8th.

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lexi kava (11) || staff writer

October 28, 2016

OPINION

WHO HAS YOUR VOTE? deidre crowell (11)|| staff writer

GARY JOHNSON

On the platform that the government should regulate as little as possible, the Libertarian Party is, in most ways, fiscally conservative and socially liberal. The party believes the federal government should have extremely limited interference in both businesses and in individual rights. “[The current system] really oppresses those that create... and tries to take away from those that produce and give to the non-producers,” writes the party’s 2016 candidate, Gary Johnson, in his book, Seven Principles of Good Government. Johnson advocates for allowing state and local governments to have more control. With differing governments, the American people would have more freedom to live under administrations which closely reflect their own views. With his opposition to government-mandated insurance, the Affordable Care Act, and his desire to give tax breaks to major corporations, his supporters admire his hands-off approach to regulations, believing this doctrine has the potential to result in new jobs and promote economic growth.

lyndsey case (12)|| social manager

HILLARY CLINTON

lily antor (11)|| entertainment editor

DONALD TRUMP

The United States presidential election is scheduled for Tuesday, November 8, Donald J. Trump is not the average Republican candidate for President - most 2016 and the Democratic nominee is Hillary Clinton. Although Clinton can be would also agree that he is not the average American citizen. Trump is a successconsidered as a politician on the left side of the spectrum, she also possesses con- ful businessman, real estate developer, television personality, and author based servative views. According to The Almanac of American Politics, edited by Michael in New York City who has gained much of his support by emphasizing how his Barone and Richard E. Cohen, her votes from 2003 through 2006 were rated as experiences in business will help him guide the country as commander-in-chief. liberal or conservative, with 0-100 as the scale. Overall, she received an average of Outspoken, spontaneous, and unpredictable, Trump has been known to ‘tell it like 75 liberal and 20 conservative. The former U.S Senator’s main areas of political re-it is’. He follows in line with traditional conservative values that include the presform are in regards to improving the economy, increasing the availability of jobs, ervation of marriage as an exclusive right to heterosexual couples, cutting taxes to and enacting reforms for education, the environment, health, justice, and national grow the economy, illegalizing the practice of abortion, ensuring the right to bear security. Clinton’s top campaign promise is to boost the economy. Her objecarms remains available to all qualified Americans, and trying to preserve all civil tive focuses on the quality of life for the middle and lower class. She says, “The freedoms and liberties. measure of our success will be how much incomes rise for hardworking families.” According to her campaign website, the plan consists of five points, which involve Trump, being the untraditional candidate, also has put some new concepts into investing in well-paying jobs within the first one hundred days of inauguration, the republican platform for the upcoming presidential election. From the early eliminating college debt, encouraging more companies to share profits with their stages in the primaries he has stated that he wants to build a wall on the border workers, and avoiding national debt by seeing to wealthy Americans paying their between Mexico and the US to help prevent illegal immigrants from coming into equal amount. the country and additionally has promised that he would require Mexico to pay for the wall. Furthering his stance on immigration is his promise to round up and As president, Clinton is committed to building a better future for marginalized deport all illegal immigrants currently living in America. He wishes to completely groups. The topic of social equity is something she feels passionate about as she eliminate ISIS and has said he has a plan to complete such an endeavor, although maps out a way to better the communities of oppressed individuals. Specifically, has not specified on the details. Trump also has proposed legislation that would she aims to protect the rights of people of color, the LGBTQ community, and those temporarily ban Muslims from entering the country if they come from high-risk suffering with mental illnesses. areas until the screening processes that ensure they are not dangerous are imHillary Clinton yearns to improve the wellbeing of Americans across the country. proved and much more effective. More information on each of his new proposals She believes she is able to follow through with her goals as president when she re- are available on his website. Overall, if you are looking for a nontraditional conferred to herself as “a progressive who likes to get things done” at the first Demo- servative candidate, Donald Trump is the candidate for you. cratic debate in Las Vegas.

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October 28, 2016

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With third-party candidates constituting less than 1% of airtime during evening news broadcasts this election cycle, Johnson challenges the United States’ two-party system, claiming the country’s elections are slanted to favor the two major candidates. With the hashtag #LetGaryDebate, his supporters have protested that he does not receive fair coverage from the media, which contributes to low polling numbers. However, the cycle continues as news outlets use these very polls as a reason to eliminate them from the debates and major stories. Despite the disadvantage, this divisive election year has brought new attention to third-party alternatives. This leverage may allow for the Libertarian Party to grow and become a viable option in the future.

issra said (11)|| staff writer

JILL STEIN

Dislike Trump and Clinton? Sad Bernie didn’t win the nomination? Well, there is a candidate for you to support this election. Running for the Green Party is 66 year old physician and politician Jill Stein. Much of the policies that she is advocating for fit the Bernie Sanders liberal criteria that originally gravitated young and upcoming voters into the political world. Focusing on the environment and sustainability, she hopes to transition to 100% renewable energy by 2030 and end Global Warming. Her social stances include increasing union rights, ending police brutality, expanding women's and LGBTQIA rights, and defending Indigenous people’s rights and land. Economically, she takes a very liberal stance by wanting to establish a $15 federal minimum wage and make Wall Street and big corporations pay for their taxes, much like Sanders. With these policies in mind, Stein is a desirable option for many Americans, the difficulty being that third party candidates do not get enough press and media attention. Gary Johnson and Jill Stein have yet to be included in a presidential debate, limiting their support. In addition, Stein’s polls are low: around 4% of Americans say they would vote for her in the upcoming election. For this reason,many voters do not vote third party. Voting third party would mean taking a vote away from either Trump or Clinton. In Stein's case, voting for Stein would mean one less vote for Clinton and one more vote for Trump. Though, on the contrary, if more voters decided to vote third party, their votes would count and help with the damaged two party system. Therefore, be an informed, educated and smart voter this upcoming November.

The Electoral Map

Clinton 268 15 Other 255 Trump portagenorthernlight.com

October 28, 2016

FEATURE ARTICLE

Fast 50: is it snitching?

meredith ablao (11)|| news editor

In concern of students safety in their own town, Kalamazoo Silent Observer put in place something called the “Fast 50” program. Yes, this is that number you call when you want students to suffer consequences. Since this is such a progressive country, of course we would use cellphones and money to bribe teenagers into sharing other teenagers business! This can be portrayed in several ways, both good or evil.

“I don’t understand why people can’t just mind their own business and go on with life.” -Beyza Niefert (11)

I believe that the “Fast 50” program is a total bust for several reasons, but the root of them is evil. It is a way for teenagers to create pointless and cruel drama between different friend groups. Take it into consideration that you are calling the cops about something that someone else did, then receiving a tip of $50. The person who calls is known as a “tipster.” Sound a little fishy? Also, students can remain anonymous on who they are by saying it was someone else. Yes, I know what a lot of you are thinking... “ugh teenagers have no chill.” You are correct! Most of us don’t. With this being said, teens can receive hate and threats because they...SNITCHED. “Fast 50 is a way to target people who they don’t like,” said Beyza Niefert(11).

According to snitching.org, “Society in general is based on shared values and trust; snitching undermines this and leads to the perception that it is damaging to the fabric of our society.” I believe this to be true. There is a difference between snitching and doing the right thing, but in this case, it is used for the attention and drama than the responsible choice. Yet, Kalamazoo Silent Observer does not have that intention at all. They want it to be subtle and done with respect because we are speaking of illegal substance abuse, weapon carrying etc… Here is what is said on the website “The existence of the "Fast 50 Program" does not indicate that a school has a crime or drug problem, but provides a proactive approach to administrators, students, parents, and the community, by promoting a safer school environment. In addition to providing an anonymous method for students to safely report school crimes without fear of retaliation, this program encourages the development of responsibility for one's own environment.” KSO sets unrealistic expectations for students that encourages them to exploit others during our stage of exploration. “I don’t understand why people can’t just mind their own business and go on with life,” says Niefert. Ultimately, the crime committed is always choice, and you should always expect consequences from bad actions. So be safe, be kind and tell the truth. In the words of Brenda Marsh, “make good choices out there!”

Teen sleep deprivation: hit the snooze abby seeber (12)|| opinion editor

You’re supposed to get seven to nine hours of sleep a night. Do you get seven to nine hours of sleep a night? Probably not. On a good night, maybe five hours tops. Mind you, I’m speaking on the weekDAYS not the weekENDS. I know you’re getting plenty of sleep on Saturday morning because it takes you an extra four hours to reply to my snapchat (that I sent at 9:30 a.m.) But, on the weekdays and school nights, it is safe to say that we are not getting enough sleep.

Well, a girl can dream. In all honesty, when I get home, if dinner isn’t ready yet, I hop on phone and check instagram or play Cooking Mama®. As fun as these phones are, they are a major factor in our insomnia. Hop off of Twitter and you will be amazed at how much you can get done. You can probably track several minutes of lost sleep to that extra forty five minutes you spent trying to get the right filter and saturation on your instagram picture. I know, because I’m guilty as well.

I will be sitting in bed, ready to fulfill my destiny:to Listen, I get it, I’m a teenager too. On my drive to sleep more than five hours, on my phone. I am so school every morning, if the red light is lasting that close. SO CLOSE, to being ready to fall asleep, extra minute, there is one extra chance I am goWITH MY PHONE IN HAND. You have probably ing to fall asleep in the driver's seat (don’t worry, I heard this already, but it not only horrible for wouldn't actually do that, I am a very safe driver, your health to lay in bed with your phone only ask Stephanie Scafaria). Now, before I get ahead three inches from your face, but the bright light of myself: I know you do extracurricular activities, from the screen makes your brain perk up, makand though it seems like we have absolutely no time ing it take longer for you body to shut back down for anything other than those activities, we do. Let’s to fall asleep. I suggest reading a book before bed, face it, the minute you get home, your first thought is or get one of those stress-free coloring books, and not homework. (I may be generalizing here, so I apoldo that before bed! ogize. But, speaking as a teenager myself, I can safely It’s is going to be hard to hear this, but someone has say this statement is correct for 89% of students in our to say it: the reason you are not getting enough sleep school.) When I get home, my thought is either “dinner,” or is your own fault. Sorry ‘bout it. Put your phone away, “I need a break.” It’s pathetic. I need a break after being away do your homework on time, and work on time management. from schoolwork for three hours, doing activities I enjoy. Again: Trust me, it will do wonders for your body, brain, and Pathetic. If, instead, I simply did my homework when I got home, instead of 10:30 at night, I would mostly get Drowsiness is not uncommon, but it can be sleep schedule. And I am serious about those coloring books; get one. more sleep. Maybe even the required seven hours! prevented. Photo by Cameron Schaefer.

10 SPOTLIGHT October 28, 2016

portagenorthernlight.com

Megan Rinock (11) || illustrator

Meredith Ablao (11) || news editor

Deidre Crowell (11) || staff writer

Cortney Chow (12) || editor in chief Sal DelVecchio (10) || staff writer

Carter Landis (11) || sports editor

Lexi Kava (11) || staff writer

Lyndsey Case (12) || media manager

Lily Antor (11) || entertainment editor Megna Joshi (12) || website editor

Demi Jensen (11) || staff writer

Mackenzie Brey (11) || staff writer

Allison McKenzie (10) || feature editor

Lexi Gavlas (11) || spotlight editor

Indecision 2016

Abby Seeber (12) || opinion editor

Ben Lewis (11) || design editor

Issa Said (11) || staff writer

Keegan Tenney (10) || staff writer Lexi Doll (11) || staff writer

Newspapers traditionally endorse a candidate during every Presidential election year. Our intention was to do so and run it on this page, but through discussion and exploration we agreed that coming to consensus on a candidate would take longer than our deadline allowed. Like the rest of the nation, we are divided and not wholly sold out even when we can make a decision. If we were old enough to cast our votes, this is how -we think- it would go. portagenorthernlight.com

October 28, 2016

EDITORIAL

Dominance: The Boy’s Soccer Team’s Phenomenal Season carter landis (11) || sports editor This year’s Huskies men’s varsity soccer team is played stellarly this season, with a 19-2-2 record (9-0-1 in the conference), ranking number one in the state of Michigan. They played for the conference championship Tuesday, October 11 against crosstown rival Portage Central, and gave them a proper 5-0 swashbuckling to claim the SMAC conference title. Ryan Melgar (12) was on his

game, scoring 4 goals and putting away the Mustangs. “I was on a five game drought, so it felt good to score a lot and get out of that slump. My teammates had been giving me crap for it, but after that game, they were quick to apologize.” he says. Winning the conference championship has a meaningful feel to it, but doing it against their most bitter rival tastes even sweeter. “It’s a great feeling for me after lots of hard work. I think it sends a message to the

other teams that we’re coming for the state title,” Melgar says. Levi Crooks (9), who scored the one goal that was not Melgar’s, is the only freshman on the varsity team, but he doesn’t feel like the odd one out. “It doesn’t phase me cause the older guys on the team take me in and make me feel like part of the team.” Crooks’ hard work has definitely paid off and he’ll only continue to improve.

Brian Schreiber (11) took in the victory with a heavy heart, because of the soccer field being moved. “It’s an honor to win, especially with our senior class and to play our last game on the field with a win and a conference title,” he says. The new soccer field will be on the old lacrosse hill, and the teams will start playing in 2018.

In the conference championship game against PC, (L to R): Levi Crooks (9) attempts to intercept a pass, Ryan Melgar (12) runs down a loose ball, Grant Perrine (11) prepares a pass, and Trevor Towghi (11) protects the ball. Photos by Cameron Schaefer.

Hasten Biddlecome (12) played well at goalie, saving four shots and not allowing any goals. “It felt good to win that way against Central, especially for the SMAC title,” he says. “Last time we played them, we tied, which was a bit of a let down. We made up for it with the defense and the guys up top.” In the previous game against Portage Central, the Huskies tied 1-1. Winning this game gives the boys a huge confidence boost going into Districts. The Huskies played their first

District Tournament on Tuesday, October 18th at Lansing Everett, winning easily with a 4-1 score, but Biddlecome says they didn’t waltz into the game expecting a win. “We’re gonna try to go in and not take them for granted. When you’re ranked as high as we are, you think a win is guaranteed, but it isn’t always.” What these three guys all have in common is their hunger and desire to put the team on their backs and fight for a state title. “We’re very ready, everyone is. It’s our goal,” says Schreiber.

12 SPORTS October 28, 2016

Crooks agreed. “We’re ready to take a step in the right direction towards our goal, which is the state title,” he said before the game. As the Huskie soccer team walloped Battle Creek Lakeview 6-1, they advanced for a tough match on Saturday, October 22nd for the District Championship against Okemos, but ultimately fell 1-0 despite many shots on goal and one off the post. If they would have won this game, they would have advanced to the regional

playoffs. Crooks reflected on the loss after the game. “It was devastating,” he said. “Our goal to get to that state championship is lost after that loss, and it hurt us.” Crooks says the team will do their best to make a return to the elite rank they held this entire year. “We’re gonna make a run for it next year,” he promised. With a squad that benefitted from but was not dependant on a solid senior class, the Huskies should be back with a powerful team next season.

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F LL Sports MVPs There’s more to sports than being the leading scorer. While the MVP is sometimes that person, other times they are much more. MVP’s are not only the most valuable player technically, but they are also players that have the most spirit, encouragement and love for there team. Here are the “MVP’S” for some of this year’s fall sports.

Zoe Holdorf (12)

Cross Country

Graham Holley (9) Lindsay Hall (12)

Men’s Tennis

Women’s Golf

megna joshi (12)||website editor

Zoe Holdorf (12) has been a major contributor to the XC’s success since sophomore year. Holdorf says, “ I stay motivated because of my teammates. Running is hard, but it is definitely worth it in the end when you get to celebrate with your XC family and look back on your success.” Portage Northern’s XC team is one of the biggest in the whole school with over 60 people when combining JV and varsity. “Our team together is what makes us strong and that is why I want to do something like this again in college, to have the same sense of family, ” Holdorf shared. One of Holtorf’s teammates, Sarah Gonda (12) shared, “Zoe is the most valuable player because she cares for everyone on the team so much and never puts herself first.” Holdorf wants to continue running for as long as she can and she feels bittersweet that her last season of high school XC is close to the finish line. “My favorite memory is when the girls varsity team won regionals last year and went to state, I am sad that this is the last year I get to experience something like that,” she shared. Gonda also said that “Zoe is one of the most talented runners I know and she helps all of us connect as a family and that’s what I think makes her an MVP.”

Already as a freshman, Graham has helped the team with major victories and will be a huge asset in winning for years to come. He says, “I would say my season went well. I bet the people I should bat and lost to the people I was supposed to lose to but I was disheartened that I wasn’t able to change that.” Though only in his first year of high school competition, Holley is transforming into a seasoned player. His teammate Spencer Brown (12) said “Graham is is a great asset to our team because he is a really good player and he knows how to win.” Graham says, “I’ve gained a lot of match experience that can give me the eventual edge over an opponent in very close match. Next year our team is predicted to be very successful and I’m excited,” he said. Dedicated freshman like Graham is what makes our sports team great. Brown also said “People like Graham, Myles, and freshmen coming up is gonna make our team great. I’m gonna miss screwing around with the guys and watching players like Graham grow as a player.”

Lindsay Hall (12), MVP of the women’s golf team, feels the same as Holdorf about her sport. “I like it [golf] because I can leave school and I like playing a sport that I am decent at. I also love my teammates and sad that the season’s almost over,” she reflected. Hall has done really well this season with a 7th place finish overall at the SMAC tournament and finishing 6th at another tournament. Her coach, Mr. Eustice says “Lindsay is one of our team captains. She is a very positive role model for our players.” Eustice also added that “I have had the privilege to coach her over the last 10 years, that’s what makes her valuable.” Even though there are not many girls who are on the team, the team is still tight knit and everyone should join! Hall says, “I think everyone should play if they are interested. Just go out and try! It doesn’t take a lot of skill to do it just practice a lot and you’ll get there.” Her coach also said that Lindsay gives her own “Lindsay Quick Tips” to all her younger players. Hall says that her favorite memory from past seasons is going to tournaments with her team mates and she can’t wait to see what the Women’s golf team accomplishes in years to come.

All photos courtesy of the athletes they profile.

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October 28, 2016 SPORTS

PNXC hits their stride at the Portage Invite

Will Kellam and Luke Daniel lead the pack of Portage Northern runners. Photo by Cameron Schaefer.

Salvador DelVecchio (10), Lexi Doll (10) || staff writers

the course for the Portage Invite as their favorite course to run all season. With the stakes so high, the pressure was on the runners to run their best meet of the season. Even though not everyone ran their absolute best times, “My favorite part of the Portage Northern did not disapPortage Invite is the point. excitement in our team’s tent.” The boys had a great race, with -Will Kellam (12) Luke Daniel finishing in 42nd tage Invite is one of the biggest place with a time of 16:33 and cross country meets in the state Logan McDonald coming in of Michigan, hosting four high 45th place with a time of 16:35, school divisions, middle schools both of them notching personal (including 6th grade), and an records. Will Kellam ran a 16:48 open race called the Glory Days and Dylan Miller ran a 17:47, XC 5k. both of whom earned season Many runners have described records. Other notable finishctober 8th was the annual Portage Invite, a cross country meet that attracts thousands of runners every year and is recognized as one of the largest XC meets in the Midwest. The Por-

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ers were Max Rathburn, Owen Langejans, and Mike Stinchcomb. The men finished in 13th place out of the 43 teams that participated in Division 1. They were unable to triumph over tough crosstown rivel PC, who finished 9th. For the women, Peyton Witt got a season record going over the home course in 18:39 and getting 14th place overall. Rachael Gallap, a senior on the varsity girls team, loves coming to this race every year. “I think PI is awesome. It’s really cool that there is such a huge meet in our hometown,” she said. The girls took 25th place out of the 45 teams that participated and managed to sneak in ahead of Portage Centra, who placed 26th.

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Movie Night After a year’s worth of anticipation, I am waiting until the clock strikes 6:30 in hopes to be mind blown. Months of watching trailer after trailer, the vibes of Heartless by Kanye West sets the stage for the delusional alcoholic, Rachel Watson (Emily Blunt), and her involvement in the murder of Megan (Haley Bennett). I’ll admit that I haven’t read the novel that the movie is centralized around, but to me, it escalates the suspense. As I guide myself and my friend into the darkened theater, we pull out the food we smuggled and get comfortable in our chairs. The movie opens on Rachel, who spends her days on a train to New York, but as a bottle of whiskey and a water bottle of vodka is found in her bag, the train knows her reputation as an alcoholic. Rachel often tries to create lives for the people in houses she sees on the way to New York and back, but she often passes the house she used to share with her ex-husband, Tom. Suddenly, the movie frame flashes to Megan, the nanny for Tom’s new wife, seeing a counselor because of her traumatized teenage years. It is then revealed that Megan constantly seduces men although she has an abusive fiance at home. The next main woman introduced is Anna (Rebecca Ferguson), who is the new wife to Tom. She seems happy as a mother and wife but fears Rachel because of Rachel’s sudden appearances in the neighborhood. It should also be noted that Megan is also the nanny for Anna but suddenly quits because of finding a job as an art gallery director. After the introduction of the main female characters, things take the turn for the worse when Rachel sees Megan cheating on her fiance from the train’s window. After that, Rachel feels rage toward the situation be-

The Girl on the Train by Cortney Chow (12) || Editor in Chief

cause Megan is throwing away the the love she shares with her fiance. This moment is a trigger for Rachel and she decides to get off the train to follow Megan who sometimes runs underneath the train track archway. When Rachel does this, she blacks out and wakes up covered in blood. Then, the news reports that Megan is missing and declares it a homicide after finding her body. This whole plot focuses on Rachel and her internal conflicts, flashbacks of Megan’s past, and the deterioration of the marriage between Anna and Tom. What ties this movie together is the answer to one question: What character killed Megan? I will not give any spoilers, but I felt like the pacing of the movie was either too slow or too fast. Because of the uneven pacing, this hindered the movie’s ability to capture all the suspense before giving away who the killer is. Furthermore, the plot can be somewhat confusing because of the constant jumping but I honestly thought the beginning was boring. There were moments in the movie that left me zoning out and the ending was a little dry for my taste. There was not enough closure to me but nevertheless, it was one of the best thrillers I have watched. I’ll admit that I was left shocked when the killer was revealed and the events following the confrontation of the murderer. My jaw literally hit the ground and I was holding in my scream. The acting by Emily Blunt and Haley Bennett really raised the star quality of this movie and helped the audience become absorbed with the storyline. Overall, I give this movie 3.5/5 stars but now I would like to read the book to see if the movie brought justice to the actual novel.

Artwork created by NL staff from several elements designated for public use

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October 28, 2016

ENTERTAINMENT 15

PERFECTLY

FALL

Cameron Schaefer || Photographer

1. Korday Arntson (10) and Marcia Thompson (10) combat a chilly 30 degree October day with their scarves. 2. The sun rises over I94, illuminating the NHS campus in fall colors 3. Makaila Clapp (10) completes her classwork outside among the leaves 4. Autumn reds and oranges surround the back half of the high school 5. Nothing says fall like a marching band rehearsal; here the band prepares to compete at the state competition 6. Like band, football is one of the defining events of fall; here the team tries to rally before their 42-14 loss to Dewitt.

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