2020 Senior Edition

class of covid-19 a final goodbye to the class of 2020 1000 Idaho Ave. Portage, MI 49024

volume 50 issue 6

www.portagenorthernlight.com

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Contents Reaching his dreams:

A life and future on the field: Levi Crooks goes on to play soccer for Western Michigan University 10 years after starting his athletic journey in Ghana.

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All dressed up with no prom in sight:

Madison Mace celebrates her self taught journey in sewing.

Her time in quarantine allowed her to sew her sketches into reality.

How Peter Todd was able to maintain the credentials needed for the competitive University of Michigan while balancing his large load of extracurriculars.

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Northern Light Senior Sign-off

Stepping out: Isabel Reid shows the beauty of stepping outside of your comfort zone and prepares to attend the Univesity of Michigan this fall.

Illustration by A.J. Chambers

The cover depicts a virtual graduation ceremony in honor of the class of 2020’s nontraditional graduating year. It is a representation of the possible virutal ceremony due to the COVID-19 crisis.

Scan to follow!

02 Contents

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On the cover

The senior staff of the Northern Light say one last goodbye before stepping down and passing the legacy on to the underclassmen.

Policies at the NL The Northern Light in print and online is the student-produced newspaper for Portage Northern HS. It is an open, designated public forum for student expression, and the newspaper provides staff members with independent reporting opportunities and individual evaluation. Writing is based on a wide variety of research for a broad and diverse audience and topics of coverage are decided by the staff and editorial board with consideration to what is timely, relevant, compelling, educational, and important to the student body.

In accordance with best practice for student media, the Northern Light is not prior reviewed by administration. Building and district administration do, however, reserve the right to oversee the paper if necessary to ensure that the mission and vision of Portage Public Schools and the safety of students and staff are maintained.

As a MIPA, JEA, and NSPA publication, the Northern Light adheres to Design by Gabe Flota

the highest standards of journalistic integrity. Photos, art, and other visual elements are created by Northern Light staff, formally designated for free use, or part of the public domain.

In rare circumstances, we may use other media with the owner’s written permission.

It is our desire that our readers join the discussion on our published work. We welcome letters to the editor and guest contributions, and the Northern Light will publish online all pieces received provided that they include the author’s full name and are appropriate for publication in a school setting. Letters to the editor are limited to 150 words in length and guest contributions are limited to 350 words in length. Pieces can be delivered to Amanda Thorpe’s room, 3.129, emailed to pnhsNorthernLight@ gmail.com, or mailed ATTN: Portage Northern Light to Portage Northern High School, 1000 Idaho Avenue, Portage, MI 49024.

Portage Northern Light

NL Staff Snigda Narisetty Malcolm Gaynor Editors in Chief

Thank you to our sponsors and buisness partners!

Gabe Flota

Brenda Marsh and family

Kylie Clifton

Rathco Safety Supply

Creative Editor Feature Editor

Astrid Code News Editor

Arushi Mithal Opinion Editor

Cerena Read

Entertainment Editor

Liam Fagan Sports Editor

Brianna Neuhouser Digital Media Manager

Natalie Grinder

Assosciate Digital Media Manager

Abby VanderBerg Business Manager

Kellie Miles Photographer

Rawan Alsaedi Cynthia Brown Maya Daniels Syed Daniyal Ciara Dragicevich Komalpreet Kaur Katie Knight Kaylin Kyle Lilly Lisznyai Lucy Madelung Carrie Jacobson Melissah Morris-Adkins Kylie Pennington Lindsey Peterson Gavin Stevens Staff Writers

June 2020

Jersey Giant Subs UTan Lafayette Creamery Portage YMCA Bookbug Dear readers...

We genuinely cannot believe this is the last edition of the Northern Light for the 2019-2020 school year. It was an amazing year, and we even won our very first Spartan award in the 50 year history of the Northern Light.

It’s been a crazy second semester.

None of us could have anticipated that we would end the school year from home. So, to honor the class of 2020, we have put together this edition *from home*. It is an extra long edition filled with pages of our incredible seniors’ stories. We know that this class was not granted an opportunity to say a proper goodbye to their high school years, so we have gifted to them messages dedicated to them from every department of PN. We hope that this issue means to you what it means to us! The journey from the first edition to this last one has been tedious and sometimes stressful, but in the end it was worth Design by Snigda Narisetty

it. We had the opportunity to provide all of you with the news that is important to our community & school and keep you entertained through tough times, such as this quarantine.

Finally, we thank you all for reading! All of us here at the PN Light have worked so hard to produce this edition. While the underclassmen will prepare for the next year, this is our goodbye. So on behalf of all our beloved senior staff, we wish the Northern Light staff the best in their future endeavors and hope to see all of you excel.

One last time, Snigda Narisetty & Malcolm Gaynor Editors in Chief

About 03

Administration Senior Sign Off

THE CLASS OF 2020 IS LEGENDARY!

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04 Senior Edition

Design by Katie Knight

Portage Northern Light

A life and future on the field: senior Levi Crooks celebrates his journey through soccer from village to college field.

“Soccer has always been in my life, as a young kid coming from Ghana, playing soccer was just about playing and having fun. It is part of the culture I came from as a kid, so I played just for the love of it. I always played around with my friends, but never organized,” Levi Crooks recalls.

In the fall of 2010, then eight year old Levi’s horizons were about to change, as he and his brother Xander were adopted.

Coming from an Accran orphanage in Ghana, to their home in Michigan where they’ve lived for nearly ten years. With this transition, not only did his life change, but his relation with soccer and american sports as a whole.

“It wasn’t until I was adopted to the U.S that I started playing competitively at the Kingdom Soccer club. Growing u p i t was only about soccer, I didn’t care about other sports,” Levi admits. “In fact I hated the new American sports.

I eventually developed a love for the American sports and got into basketball, cross country, tennis, and track and field.”

Beyond his new bond with his sport, Levi was determined and set his own goals while defining his priorities. “As I got older I realized I could someday play in college and get my schooling paid for, but playing in college was not my number one goal. My number one goal was to eventually get to college and get a degree,” Levi says.

June 2020

Before he could reach his goals of a degree, he had to start high school.

Starting at PN, his athletic career began with a first impression beyond his years. Northern’s varsity soccer coach, Justin Rhodes recalls, “When I first met Levi it was the summer before his freshman year during our summer work out sessions. He walked across the field and I asked one of my assistant coaches if we had a new junior at the try out for us.” After their first summer work out session, Justin coached Levi on the varsity team for all four years of his high school career.

In those four years since that first summer session, Levi has continued to grow and reach new milestones with his sport. “I’ve achieved a lot while playing soccer. I’ve won state championships at the clubs level, and played in national tournaments and won. The sport gave me the chance to travel all around the nation, creating so many memories along the way,” says Levi recalling the past, and looking towards his future on the field. “Now it has given me the honor of playing NCAA division 1 soccer at WMU on scholarship, and I couldn’t be more grateful for that. Through sports I met lifelong friends. The lessons I learned have made me the person I am today, and have definitely shaped me and put me on track to achieving my goals.”

One of these lifelong friends is Levi’s teammate of 7-8 years, Jonah Pilnick.“Being on the same team as Levi (the most talented play- e r around) was very cool. His energy and passion on the field is unmatchable. Not only is Levi a great classmate and teammate, but he is also an amazing friend. He’s an extremely carDesign byKatie Knight

By Kylie Clifton

ing individual who has accomplished so much in his life.... and yet, he is one of the most humble people that I’ve come to know and respect. The WMU soccer team is extremely lucky to have someone like Levi,” Jonah shares.

Nine years later, and during his spring break in 2019, Levi got to return to Ghana. Where many of his relatives still reside, he recalls “the whole village threw me a party. There was a lot of traditional dancing and food. it was beautiful to get a fresh reminder of what my culture is like. I was also able to visit some different places in the village where I would hangout as a young kid.”

Now t e n years from f irst coming to the U.S, where his life and grasp on his sport changed forever, Levi stands proud and wouldn’t have changed a thing. “I can’t begin to thank the coaches who gave their time to make me a better person and challenged me to not settle for the bare minimum,” he says. “I encourage more people to go out for sports no matter the level, the brotherhood and sisterhood that lives in sports is unmatched.”

Photos courtesy of Levi Crooks

Senior Edition 05

As the school year abruptly stops, PN prepares to say an unusual goobye to their foreign friends as they leave for their home countries due to the unexpected end of the year. Even though they’re back on the other side of the world, they still share their reections on being a Huskie.

A DIFFERENT KIND OF GOODBYE

By Natalie Grinder and Melissah Morris-Adkins

06 Senior Edition

Design by Rawan Alsaedi

Portage Northern Light

m

What do you miss the most?

What is your favorite memory of being a Huskie?

The football and basketball games, definitely.

What are your plans for this summer and next year?

I hope I can go out with friends during the summer, as long as the situation with the virus gets better. Next year I will be finishing high school here in Spain and I will hopefully start a major in Pharmaceutical Sciences or Medicine the year after that.

What do you miss the most?

I had to take 3 flights and ended up travelling for over two days. The airports were empty and everyone wore masks the whole time. Going back so suddenly was sad and the situation with the virus in Spain was pretty serious at that moment. I still have not got to see most of my family and friends here. I self quarantined for over two weeks.

Being a member of soccer team, and won the district.

Hopefully these crazy things settle down, so I can hang out with my friends. I’m gonna finish high school then go to college and major in economics next year.

June 2020

What was it like going back to your home country?

What is your favorite memory of being a Huskie?

What are your plans for this summer and next year?

It was an amazing experience I will never forget. I’m really glad I got to go to PN.

What was your experience at PN?

Kento Fujihara

That was an unforgettable experience.

I wanted to spend more time at PN.

Japan

I miss my friends the most. They were always helpful and always made me smile.

Maria Suarez

Spain

I miss my friends the most. I am so thankful I met all of them.

What was your experience at PN?

What was it like going back to your home country?

I took 2 flights to go back to Japan.

The flight Detroit to Dallas was cancelled due to coronavirus the day before I left, so that was so busy and stressful because I needed to find another flight.

Japan was not in a serious situation with the virus at the moment, so it was smooth to come back home. But I had to stay in my house for 2 weeks after I got to Japan though.

Design by Rawan Alsaedi

Senior Edition 07

The English department says farewell to the class of 2020

We've been reading, writing, listening, and speaking together for the last four years. We would have loved to finish out our time together in the classroom, but since that couldn't happen, we're sending you our love, wisdom, favorite quotes, and quarantine selfies. We are so proud of all that you've accomplished, and wish you all the best for your bright and brilliant futures.

Never forget: your next adventure is just a book away.

Dr. Thorpe Albus Dumbledore said it best: “Words are, in my not-so-humble opinion, our most inexhaustible source of magic, capable both of inflicting injury and remedying it.”

Mr Kolodzieczyk Good luck writing the next chapter in your life!

Ms Miller Be smart. Be safe. Have fun.

Ms Weeks Speak up, stand up, show up for something.

Your words have power.

YOU have power. Craft a story you’re happy to be a part of: the world is a finer place because you’re in it.

Credit: studiogstock

Mrs Wendland

Mr Neal

The beauty of life is that we each get to write each chapter of our story that our lives will tell. Even if your hope for the future feels a million miles away, take a moment to feel grateful for the present.

“If a man does not master his circumstances then he is bound to be mastered by them.”

Amor Towles, A Gentleman in Moscow

Ms Wangler

Ms Grattan

Mr Crocker

“The World will be saved and remade by the Dreamers.”

Sarah J. Maas

It’s okay if you fail or if things aren’t going the way you had planned - learn from it and keep going.

June 082020 Senior Edition

Life goes on, it just goes on slowly sometimes.

Embrace it!

Design Design

by Staff

by Staff

Mrs Gwyn You gave up a lot this year, but you have become resilient because of it. Now go out and be as unique and memorable as this year has been!

Mrs Engel May you always have Jay Gatsby’s hope, Will Holloman’s patience, Atticus Finch’s integrity, and Lennie Small’s loyalty.

Portage Northern37 Light Senior Edition

RILEY CARL SON to attend Stanford for unique Symbolic Systems major

Senior Riley Carlson will be going to Stanford University next year after years of hard work. Photo

by Stacey Clack.

Senior Riley Carlson remembers vividly the night she was accepted to her dream school. “I was so scared I had to step back and convince myself that whatever happened I’ll be fine,”

Riley Carlson stands outside the gates of her dream school. Photo by Danette Riley.

June 2020

by Astrid Code recounts Riley. “I finally sat down and clicked the button and screamed. I ran upstairs crying to tell my parents. I was in disbelief the rest of night.”

Riley will be attending Stanford University and majoring in Symbolic Systems, a major specific to Stanford.

“Symbolic Systems is a unique Stanford major that encompasses the humanities and STEM in the form of artificial intelligence,” says Riley. “I chose this major because I enjoy the humanities and stem and believe that both entities could complement each other.”

“When I first heard the screams, I thought someone got hurt. Then when I figured it out I started crying with her,” says sophomore Bailey Carlson of the night her sister was accepted. “It’s been her dream since 6th grade.” Riley has been set on this goal for so long, and it has motivated her through all four years at Northern. “Stanford has been my dream school for all of high school,” says Riley. “Whenever I felt helpless or unmotivated for school, I would always think of my goal. I never thought it was a possibility but I didn’t let that hinder me from applying and putting my best effort into my application. If I didn’t apply then I knew I would have a 0% chance in getting in.”

Although Riley has had her goal in sight for a while, her journey has Design by Astrid Code

not been easy. “She’s been taking every opportunity to put on her resume, trying her best, studying every night, working very very hard,” says Bailey.

Although she had to put together an impressive resume, Riley still believes that she should put her passion first.

“One of my beliefs is that people shouldn’t accomplish things just for the resume or college applications. I put my effort into the things I am passionate about,” says Riley.

“Riley always stood out,” says Carlson’s English teacher Ben Neal. “She was a great participant in class, and she often shared insightful thoughts and analysis during our discussion.

Riley always was conscientious of the details and her development. She is one of the best I have ever had the privilege to teach.”

Of her high school experience, Riley doesn’t focus on what she will be leaving behind, but the confidence and knowledge that she will take with her. “My favorite part has to be seeing the growth of all my peers. It was only 4 years ago that I was a freshman, but I have grown so much since then. Back then I was nowhere near ready to live independently and make the world my own, but know I feel confident that I am prepared for adulthood.”

Senior Edition 09

By Malcolm Gaynor

Baseball seniors say goodbye

Last season, the Huskie baseball team made history with their first state championship in school history. They didn’t know it then, but the 10-4 victory against Rockford was the last game not only for the 5 seniors, but the 12 juniors as well As the 2020 season approached, the baseball team looked ready to pick up right where they left off. With a senior class 13 players deep, the Huskies began the year ranked #1 on the MHSAA coaches poll. Now, after the Covid-19 pandemic has shut down spring sports in Michigan, one of the largest senior classes in PN athletics looks back on their historic, abbreviated high school careers.

“The team is unique because of the combination of the players, coaches, and parents that make the program what it is. When you put together a group of top tier players with the best coaching staff in the state, great things happen, and even more so with the full support of the parents, families, and the community.”

- Jack Beffel

“I was most looking forward to getting to play with this 2020 team because of the talent we had and the bonds we have created with each other.”

“[My favorite memory was] beating Woodhaven from behind. After that game I think we felt that we couldn’t be beat.”

- Nolan McCarthy

- Dylan Butler “The team is unique because everyone understands their roles and puts in the work needed to win championships.”

- Gannon Andrews

“The PN baseball team is unique because of our chemistry. Everyone on the team liked each other and we didn’t have any selfish players and everyone wanted to work hard for themselves and each other.

That’s what made 20 great baseball players into a real family unit.”

“I was looking forward to spending time with my brothers playing the sport I love.”

- Greg Lapetina

- Mitchell Milks

10 Senior Edition

Design by Malcolm Gaynor

Portage Northern Light

I was looking forward to seeing all of the hard work pay off this season. I had been working since the day we finished and I progressed so much the past year.

- Jack Sielatycki

[I was looking forward to] simply playing the sport again after missing a year, and also being able to spend time with my baseball friends and teammates one last time.

What makes the team so special is our ability to work together and we get along so well.

- Kareem Williams

- Nate Mason I was most looking forward to repeating as state champs, as well as making the all star game at Comerica park.

- Parker Brey

I was looking forward to spending another year with my teammates and brothers. Last year we had such an incredible bond and I know we were going to make another run at the State Championship in 2020.

I was most looking forward to keeping that same chemistry that we had last year and try and go on another run at a State Championship.

- Malcolm Gaynor

- Adam Rowlson

College Baseball Nolan McCarthy Gannon Andrews Jack Sielatycki Malcolm Gaynor June 2020

Dylan Butler

I always am excited to have the boys behind me on the field. This team is unique In the fact they are always uplifting and supportive 100% of the time which can really go a long way in a sport like baseball.

- Trey Neal

Nate Mason Parker Brey Design by Malcolm Gaynor

Senior Edition 11

Dear Class of 2020, We want to congratulate you on your graduation and recognize all of your success and achievements in World Language during your time at Portage Northern High School. Whether you took one class at Northern or studied a language for four years, whether you learned one world language or multiple, the skills you have acquired will

12 Senior Edition

serve you well as you step into your future. Your ability to understand a language and its cultures, and communicate with a diverse group of people, will help to connect with the world and open doors and opportunities along the way.

While this wasn’t necessarily the way we had hoped to end your senior year, we know that you will continue

Design by Astrid Code

to achieve amazing things. Thank you for allowing us to be part of your educational and personal journey, and we look forward to hearing from you in the years to come.

Sincerely, Sra. CaĂąenguez, Magistra Friedman, Mme. Hassing-Pierce, Sr. Hill, Sra. Paynich and Srta. Rath

Portage Northern Light

All dressed up with no prom in sight: Madison Mace celebrates self taught journey in sewing

by Kylie Clifton

“I’ve always been really into fashion and design.

It’s really grown over the years, says Madison Mace. “Last year when my grandma got me a sewing machine for my birthday I decided it was the perfect opportunity to design a n d make a

Madison s finished dress alongside her original sketch: for her prom initial inspiration. Her final dress stayed clear in her mind, from her sketches all the way to her sewing machine.

Photo and sketch courtesy of Madison Mace.

June 2020

prom dress!”

Madison did not approach her newest endeavour with years of experience, but she was ready to learn regardless. “I bought some cheap cotton to practice making two other casual dresses so I could have a little bit of experience before making my prom dress. However, for the most part, it was an ‘I’ll figure it out as I go’ type project,” Madison shares.

As the prom grew closer and she fin-

Design by Kylie Clifton

ished her project, she has been able to reflect on her self-taught journey. “Learning how to sew such an intricate dress is definitely not for everyone, but if anyone has the opportunity to help design their own custom dress, whether or not they are the one who makes it, I definitely think they should take that opportunity,” says Madison. “Getting the chance to wear a dress that was specifically made for you is a really special experience!”

Fortunately she isn’t alone in this unique experience, as Madison shared her skill in making a dress for her friend at Portage Central Bridget Doyle. Knowing each other since freshman year, Bridget shares her experience,“The dress means a lot to me.

It fits me absolutely perfectly. Madison has spent so much of her free time making this beautiful dress and I am eternally grateful to her for it.”

Only Madison’s journey as a self-taught seamstress, faced a new obstacle beyond the sewing machine. According to NPR, Governor Whitmer’s executive order after the COVID-19 outbreak detailed that, “gatherings must have 10 people at maximum.” Unfortunately bringing the cancellation of Madison’s prom, the night to celebrate her dress and journey.

Despite the tentative roadblock, Madison remains positive and shares her accomplishment to social media. Albeit not the dance floor, but still a place of celebration for Madison. “I’m a little disappointed that I won’t be able to wear the dress to prom this year,” says Madison. “I am still incredibly proud of how the dress turned out and I am glad that I can share my dress through the Internet even though prom is canceled.”

Senior Edition 13

ley i R d n a r d e n k e l i a r W rf i e e r h t d An ke el a v t e r l e ge isznyai ak e l m l e o o yL Sh he c

by Lill t o t ship We all have imagined how cool it would be to go to college with our best friends. For Riley Shoemaker and Andre Walker, it’s not a dream.

It’s their reality. The two Portage Northern graduates will be attending Kalamazoo college together as well as majoring in the same two subjects.

Let’s start from the beginning.

Riley and Andre were both students at Portage Northern Middle School when they became friends. They had always gone to school together, but in 6th grade, they became close. “We became friends because we sat next to each other in our English class and got moved away from each other on the first day because we were laughing nonstop,” Riley explains as

she tells about the beginning of her friendship with Andre. Ever since then, they have been best friends.

Andre says, “Riley and I have the exact same humor and personality, so it was very easy to connect with her.” Walker and Shoemaker have been best friends with each other for about 6 years and couldn’t be any happier.

The two students committed to Kalamazoo College in their senior year. Walker announced his commitment in April, while Riley committed in January. Although it is not a coincidence that they are both going to the dame college. Riley says, “We both felt that K was a decently sized school and that the class sizes would help us get a better adjustment to college life.” While it’s not a coincidence that friends are going to the same college, it is a coincidence that they both decided to major in Spanish and biology. “Riley and I both have very strong passions in biology and Spanish. Therefore, we both decided to double major. We made

those decisions separately,” Andre explains. As if it couldn’t get any better, Riley and Andre got approved to be roommates for their future years at Kalamazoo College.

The best friends do not know what the future holds for them but, they know that they want to remain friends forever.

College can be a big change for some people. There are a lot more people, harder classes, and sometimes you’re by yourself. Shoemaker has a positive outlook for her coming years of college. Shoemaker states, “It is super exciting that we are going to the same college because it means that we won’t be going in totally alone and we can help each other along the way while meeting new people.” Walker adds, “It makes me feel very happy that I get to spend the next four years with her.”

PHOTO COURTESY OF MOLLY WILLIAMS.

PHOTO COURTESY OF RILEY SHOEMAKER.

14 Senior Edition

Design by Kylie Clifton

Portage Northern Light

Birthd a and M ys to dorm aya S room h s: Nin arma same a take unive o

by Lin rsity n the dsey P a eterso n d ma n jor Unfortunate for their senior year to end like this however, twins Maya and Nina Sharma have an exciting college journey ahead of them.Nina and Maya have both coincidentally decided on attending Loyola University Chicago!

Even though going to the same college was never their intent, senior twins Maya and Nina Sharma claim “It was honestly just a coincidence that we ended up at the same college.” Even after looking at a few other schools, the Sharmas both settled on Loyola. “I had always liked Loyola.” Maya said. “Being near the city and their really good bio program excited me.”

Both Nina and Maya love that Loyola has great study abroad programs for both of them to enjoy, Maya is especially happy because she plans on doubling in

spanish! Though these twins have many in common “Biology is just where we cross over.” said Maya.

Nina says “ I am obsessed with physics, Astronomy, and more disciplined areas of Chemistry like Organic Chemistry.” Nina said, “I am majoring in Cellular and Molecular bio for the means of going premed.” Maya also intends on going premed! The twins also said they plan on getting a dorm together “Simply because we’re going to be in Chicago and so much is already changing.” says Nina.

However Maya said they will be planning on joining clubs to meet more people and to make new friends.

They seem to have everything figured out, they have both shared that they have always had a good and close relationship and that the best memory they have had was, “when we studied abroad in Italy for a semester sophomore year, and we d i d n’ t l i v e

together for four months which had been the longest time in our whole lives.” Said Maya, she also shared “When we finally saw each other it was so nice! Nina flew into Rome from Sicillia.” They then went on a trip to the coast of Italy!

“It was very nice to have my twin with me.” Wishing them the best for their exciting upcoming years together!

Twin sisters Nina (left) and Maya (right) pose for their senior pictures.

Just like their journey in life they’re doing it together. Photo courtesy of Nina Sharma.

They’ve been together since the begining.

Maya Sharma (left) and Nina Sharma (right), have taken life hand in hand.

Whether it’s they’re trips around the world, the classroom, and now college campus. Photo courtesy of Nina Sharma.

June 2020

Design by Kylie Clifton

Senior Editon 15

Congratulations

class of “Unless

some-

one like you cares a whole awful lot, Nothing is going to get better. It’s not.”

2020

PARTICIPATE IN DEMOCRACY, VOTE! Do Right, Respect, Effort, -Mr Fitz

Be the change! Work hard, good luck & stay healthy 2020.

Class of 2020, be the person who cares!

-Mrs Derenne

Super proud of all of you, Searing

“Do what you can, with what -Theodore Rooselvelt

In his 1624 book The Wise-Man's Forecast against the Evil Time, Thomas Barnes bemoaned, “Youth were never more saucey, yea, never more savagely saucey. . .”

So Class of 2020 -- I leave you with these words.... "Stay. Savagely. Saucey."

- Mrs Dixon

you have, where you are.”

from The Social Studies Department

Set goals! You are capable of more than you think. Good luck!

-Mr Quist

GO BE EXCELLENT! High Fives, -Mrs Palmer

Avoid apathy!

In the wise words of Dr. Seuss:

Be optimistic!

“You’ve learned the things you need To pass that test and many moreI’m certain you’ll succeed.

We’ve taught you that the earth is round, That red and white make pink, And something else that matters moreWe’ve taught you how to think.”

Stay connected!

- Mr Wood 16 Senior Edition

Write stuff down!

Rewa’s Advice for the Class of 2020: Best of luck out there!

Design by Brianna Neuhouser

Portage Northern Light

Daniel Calco: winner of the prestegious

Evans

Scholarship

Photo courtesy of Daniel Calco

by Lucy Madelung

Daniel Calco is a high school senior who has accomplished something amazing. He was picked from the best of the best to gain the University of Michigan’s Evans Scholarship. The Evans Scholarship is a full-ride scholarship for the applicants who show the most promising skills in caddying.

“I first heard about it during the eighth grade, and I have been working for it since then. It helps to have more time going for you, so I knew that if I wanted a shot at it, I would need to work as hard as possible. The application process was quite vigorous. “I had to write an essay, state my extracurricular activities, send my SAT/ACT score, and all that normal stuff ”, Calco confirmed. “The interesting part came about two months after that in December, when I found out I was a finalist, as I called out to Detroit for an in-person interview. I had to Interview in a panel-style questionnaire of around 80 people.” How would it feel to be selected among so many applicants? “ I would hate to diminish anyone else’s accomplishments” Calco humbly stated. “ I guess it feels like it would to win any award. I think I’ve earned it.”

Calco obviously has a passion for Caddying, when very few are as lucky

June 2020

to find theirs. When asked why he loves doing it he explained that “ It’s sort of always different every time, which is weird considering it’s always the same eighteen holes.

Still, the places you go on the course always end up different.”

Having been caddying for more than five years, Calco has gained many special memories, the rush of each tournament has given him his purpose. Caddying has given Calco so much more than a passion, it’s given him a way to let go and express himself, as well as giving him many people to look up to and take after.

At first, being a caddie just seemed to be something fun to do. But as I started doing it more, I really started dedicating myself to it.“ he explained when asked what drew him into the activity.

“If I could give one piece of advice to anyone wanting to go into caddying, it would be to believe in the adventure.

Be okay with whatever the outcome.”

Design by Snigda Narisetty

Senior Edition

17

Women’s tennis seniors just got served... with a stay at home order that ended their final season.

by Snigda Narisetty

“None of us knew our last practice would be our last practice,” says senior Haley Jackson. The COVID-19 situation has put everyone in a unique position, and each person has been affected in a different way. The Portage Northern women’s tennis team was in the middle of tryouts when the governor decided to close Michigan schools for the COVID crisis. Though their season came to an abrupt front, the players took the change in stride and have been looking forward to playing next year instead.

However, the seniors do not get the chance to redeem their lost season with another one next year. This was their last chance to be a part of the team, and it has been lost. “I feel very bad for all my players, not having a season, but especially for the seniors since they did not get to play their last season,” says Coach Diana Smith. “I hope I have instilled a love of the game and that they are able to play in college and beyond, whether it is on a club team or just for fun with their friends.”

Even while being able to look for-

Rachel Kelly will be attending Grand Valley State University and plans to play club tennis.

Sonam Raghubanshi will continue to play tennis for leisure and will be attending Western Michigan University in the fall.

Melissa McKenzie wants to play club tennis at the University of Michigan next year.

Haley Jackson plans on playing tennis as a hobby with her family, and will be attending Western Michigan University.

18 Senior Edition

Design by Snigda Narisetty

ward to the next season, the rest of the players will be facing a great loss.

One third of the women’s tennis team is made up of seniors, and next year with all of them at college, the team fears losing their strength. Though coming into this season, the team had already lost eight players, they weren’t worried due to the comeback of two players, seniors Haley Jackson and Megan Chow, after a year break from the sport. “I think that we were going to have a good team,” says Coach

Nina Sharma might play club tennis at Loyola Univeristy next school year.

Anika Gullapalli wants to keep tennis as a hobby, and will be attending the University of Detroit Mercy.

Portage Northern Light

Maya Sharma will be attending Loyola University and plans to play club tennis.

Smith. “Many of our girls had worked very hard over the off-season and had improved immensely since last year, and we had a very good player, Allison Wooton, a freshman come in who was going to be very competitive at #1 singles.”

Nevertheless, despite the disappointment of losing their final season, the senior players are looking forward to meeting up with their teammates in a final celebration once the stayat-home order is lifted and the chaos around the situation settles down.

“Seniors are missing out on so many things for our last season,” says newcomer senior Sonam Raghubanshi. “It would still be amazing to see our team for a bit and officially concluded the

Snigda Narisetty hopes to continue playing tennis as a hobby and will be attending the University of Michigan.

season on our own terms.”

In addition to their athletic achievements as a team over the last few years, the team also made All State Academic, an incredible honor awarded to teams with a collaborative unweighted GPA of 3.5 or more.

“We had a 3.87 unweighted GPA! That is so fantastic,” says Coach Smith. “As much as I love tennis, ed-

“I hope I have instilled a love of the game and that they are able to play in college and beyond...”

-Coach Smith June 2020

Megan Chow will be attending the University of California Berkeley and plans to continue tennis as a hobby.

ucation is so much more important.”

The seniors of the team are as follows. Varsity: Megan Chow, Grace Fan, Anika Gullapalli, Haley Jackson, Rachel Kelly, Melissa Mckenzie, Snigda Narisetty, Maya Sharma, and Nina Shama. Junior Varsity: Sonam Raghubanshi.

*all photos courtesy of respective subjects. **not pictured: senior Grace Fan.

Design by Snigda Narisetty

Senior Edition 19

Congratulations class of N

P

H

S

Here’s a few final math problems for you:

1

2 P 2- 4P + 4 = 0

3

3

H

N = sin(360 ) o

4 4(S + 180) + 1300 = 2020

1 Thank you for sharing your mathematical journey with us. We will miss you, but know that you will be able to problem solve anything your future throws at you.

Best of Luck, Your PN Math Department

20 Senior

Design by Malcolm Gaynor

Portage Northern Light

Reaching his dreams:

Peter Todd tackles extracurriculars and school work

by Brianna Neuhouser

Many students juggle a pleth- position in his sports teams, ora of activities in their high Todd also is an active particischool careers. Peter Todd was pant in DECA as well as Inone such student. Along with teract Club. DECA leader and playing a sport for every sea- business teacher, Jeanine Patson, Todd also participated in terson says “The business proDECA, Interact Club, and fo- gram has benefited from Peter rensics. through his ability to connect In the fall, Todd plays men’s with the younger students by tennis. His tennis and hockey providing them with informateammate, freshman Nick Je- tion on the rewards of taking a pson, says “There was not one business class. He helps by goplayer that didn’t like him… and ing into freshman focus classes not one player he didn’t treat and explains what the business with respect.” As captain of the program did for him and what tennis team, he was looked up it can do for them.” As a memto by the underclassmen play- ber of Interact Club, club leader ers, but one imKaren Robles-GarThere was not cia says “He’s all portant aspect of Todd’s captain one player that about teamwork, status was that, didn t like him... which makes the while he was a activities so fun and not one great player, he and cohesive.” was an even bet- player he didn t In all facets of ter friend. In the Todd’s high treat with winter, he plays school activrespect. hockey, as a goalities, he has -Nick Jepson ie. Due to his poproven himsition on the team, he is unable self to be a team player. to be a captain, but Jepson beTodd was also lieves Todd “would’ve had many given the math departplayers’ votes.” In the spring, he ment senior award for plays men’s lacrosse. His team- all his hard work in his mate, senior Michael Hume, classes. In the fall, Todd says “If we were in a man down will be going to Universituation, Peter would hold on sity of Michigan to study the ball too and take the brutal industrial and operations beatings for us to still have the engineering. He chose the ball.” Many of his underclass- school and program bemen teammates believe that cause “the school is very once he and the other seniors prestigious and has many have left, the team dynamic will research opportunities.” shift, and be less fun.

Along with his leadership June 2020

Design by Brianna Neuhouser

Senior Edition 21

Final forensics season: an unorthodox ending

by Liam Fagan To most people, the word forensics calls forth a certain set of images: blood, fingerprints, DNA, analysis, anything in the realm of criminal sciences.

However, for the schools that participate in MIFA, the Michigan Interscholastic Forensics Association, the word forensics has an entirely different meaning. They think of people talking to walls, spending their Saturdays competing, and the sense of teamwork and collaboration that dominates the event. While the season may have been cut short, many competitors have fond memories of the things they were able to experience.

In order to make it to the top, in order to win it all, competitors have to practice. Some team members were at the school every day practicing, revising, and

perfecting their pieces. Perhaps nobody is as aware of this as senior Ellie Mancina. “I am a bit of a perfectionist when it comes

to my speech… In total, I wrote about 11 drafts.” Ellie thought about her speech night and day.

“My GRCHS winning speech, was one I wrote that Thursday

night at 1:00 A.M. I had woken up thinking about it and I knew that it was the right way to tell the story, and it appears that it was” The speech itself wasn’t the only thing Ellie had on her plate when it came to her final performance. “I also included visuals in my speech which was another crazy ride but so fun (even though they were time consuming).”

Despite the time spent and the work put in, Ellie always fought forward.

“The most important thing about forensics is just the passion and drive.”

While it may not have been expected that the first tournament of the year would also be the last, Lena Lukowski felt that The Grand Rapids Christion tournament was business as usual for the team. “The energy level of the first tournament is always very high due to nerves and excitement. This year is no differ-

Portage Northern Forensicators celebrate a successful first tournament.

From left to right: Nico Weaver, Carter Wells, Hunter Pitsch, Ben Eiler, Liam Fagan and Jason Koch. Photo courtesy of Liam Fagan.

22 Senior Edition

Design by Astrid Code

Portage Northern Light

ent…” Lena credits not only the nerves and excitement but also the sense of teamwork to the energy and success of the tournament. “...you could look around and see all of the vets comforting and hyping up the newer competitors. The amount of support and connection our team has is astonishing.” After the day had ended, Lena felt the team was poised for great things. “I know a lot of people were very excited and motivated after GRC to continue improving their pieces and that’s why it was devastating to end the season with that…” Even though the season may not have ended as planned, Lena feels comfortable with the way things ended. “... At GRC our team had so much compassion for one another that it was still a great way to end my season.”

The year ended in a rather unorthodox way, with an online tournament. Every participant submitted a video of their piece, and after rounds of judging, placements were awarded simi-

lar to regular tournaments. One of the participants was senior Ben Eiler. “For this entire season, I’ve been in the duo event.”

Ben participated all season with a partner, but when the quarantine came, he had to change his plans. “Obviously, we couldn’t get together, so if I wanted to do this tournament I had to change events.” Ben decided to go into storytelling. He picked a chil-

The amount of support and connection our team has is astonishing.

“They took your video and they compared it to all the other… videos in three rounds. I broke into semi-finals, and almost broke into finals.” Ben placed 7th, and looking back on his time in the tournament, he has no regrets. “For only having a week to prepare, I’m pretty proud.” As a whole, the team performed well at the online tournament. PNHS ended the day with 3 first-place finishes, and many more top 6 finishers.

-Senior Lena Lukowski

dren’s book, cut it, and added blocking. “I had about a week to put it together. I recorded again and again until I felt it was decent.” Once Ben submitted his video, his fate was in the hands of the judges.

Left to right: Seniors Gracie McGrath, Hannah Thomas Perez and Isabel Reid celebrate at their tournament. Photo courtesy of Gracie McGrath.

June 2020

Design by Astrid Code

Senior Edition 23

Facs, Health, and PE Senior send off The Class of 2020 has been a truly unique one filled with remarkable accomplishments by characters with great character. As unfortunate as the unique end of your time has been, it will do nothing to diminish the PAW print you left as one of the most decorated classes in the great history of Northern High School. Congratulations and Best Wishes to the class of 2020! “You got that DOG!” -The Guys in the Gym Cardona & Scherm Congratulations Class of 2020! I am sad we missed out on our full time together, but I know your future is bright and full of “pastabilities”!

-Mrs. Anthony Congratulations Class of 2020!

If this year has taught us anything, it is to focus on the things we can control. Keep focusing on the process not the outcome. Good luck!

-Mr. Andrews 24 Senior

Design by Malcolm Gaynor

Portage Northern Light

“Be who you are and say what you feel, because those who mind don’t matter and those who matter don’t mind.” ~ Dr. Seuss Burnside Everts

Kuiper

Bakos Francis

June 2020

Kuipers Ailes Hall Robinson

Design by Brianna Neuhouser

Senior Edition 25

A

Among the roughly 250 students in the 2020 graduating class of Portage Northern High School, four of those students, Ver’Nyshia Blackwell, Kyle Maki, Nathan Kipp, and Colin McNees have made the noble decision to enlist in the military and serve their country.

When asked what he is doing to prepare for his service in the military, Kipp, who is entering the Army National Guard replied, “Every day before I go to work, I’ll do 50 push-ups and sit-ups and then go for a fifteen minute run.” I’m slowly trying to increase the amount of push-ups and sit-ups as well as run longer.” Kyle Maki is also working out to prepare for his time in the service. “I’ve had to do a lot of running and bodyweight exercises like push-ups, pull-ups, crunches, etc.,” Kyle stated. “I’ve also been studying the rank structure and general orders so I know them before bootcamp.”

When asked why he is entering the United States Marine Corps, he replied, “I’m joining because it

N o b l e

Pursuit

McNees shows pride in his choice during his senior pictures. Photo credit to Chad Ream.

by Gavin Stevens

26 Senior Edition

Design by Brianna Neuhouser

Portage Northern Light

I’m joining because it just felt like something I had to do and to do my part for the people of our country.” says Maki. Photo credit to Gary Maystead

June 2020

just felt like something I had to do and to do my part for the people of our country.”

When considering why he entered the military, Colin McNees said, “What got me to join was the enthusiasm I’ve always had to serve starting out with law enforcement through the school EFE, later doing my internship with KDPS,” Colin exclaimed.

Due to COVID-19, new protocols have been implemented to avoid new recruits from contracting the virus. According to Military.com, the Marine Corps has halted training for companies of recruits who arrived at boot camp on the West Coast last month after about 48 of

Design by Brianna Neuhouser

them tested positive for coronavirus. To avoid further infection, all recruits must enter a 14day staging period where they are constantly being screened by medical personnel to ensure they are healthy. Recruits and drill instructors are being required to wear face masks and practice social distancing by keeping at least six feet of space between people when possible.

Despite these setbacks, the bright new recruits of PNHS are remaining positive and optimistic about soon being able to join their respective branches of the military and take what they’ve learned throughout their high school career to make a positive contribution to society through their service to our country.

Senior Edition 27

Scien ce D epar tmen t Sen ior S ign

Off

We missed your last dissection, organic synthesis, and crime scene. We missed the cardboard boats, trebuchets, and homemade tie dye. We even missed the cram for that last exam. But now, seniors, you get to go out there real Go and be a and do it for real. representation of all that you DID get to do, and be a force of reason when the world is crazy. Go and be nurses and engineers; doctors and astronomers; climatologists and virologists. We’ll be proud to say, “we knew you when…” !

Congratulations from Actinium Congratulations, to Zirconium, Class of 2020!

28 Senior Edition

Design by Katie Knight

Portage Northern Light

Stepping Out

S

tepping out of your comfort zone is not an easy matter to tackle, and it is a rare quality to be able to do so while balancing rigorous academics at the same time. Senior Isabel Reid has shown that welcoming new challenges instead of hiding from them is the gateway to growing tremendously as a person. Reid´s mother Nicole Reid says, ¨She (Isabel) has learned how powerful honesty, hard work, and following her passion is. She is a positive thinker with a big heart.¨ However, Isabel Reid has not always been the type of person to openly push herself to try new things. She says, “I would tell my freshman year self to not be afraid to be your true self, be more involved, and step outside of your comfort zone.” She elaborates, “Instead of being brave and meeting new people I pretty much stayed with my old friends. This, of course, was great because I loved my friends and we made great memories, but they made new friends through the events they were involved in and I did not because I was involved in literally nothing.”

Dance is one of the biggest aspects of Isabel’s life. Participating in competitive dance from a young age has helped Isabel become stronger in many ways. She says, “It (dance) has not only brought me a second family, but the long hours and valuable lessons that I have learned through dance have made me have more confident, an ability to stand in front of people and be brave, an apJune 2020

By Arushi Mithal

preciation for constructive criticism, and a work ethic that I have taken into my school work and my personal life as well.” Reid´s dance friend Madison McClish says, ¨Isabel Reid is the epitome of positivity and inspiration and she is a shining light for so many.¨ Reid does hope to continue dancing and spreading her influence in college.

Reid had also become more open

culture is. While it was definitely a challenge sometimes, I feel that it really helped me to grow my character and be more understanding of others.”

Reid continues to constantly challenge herself in many different ways.

She is one of the few seniors from Portage Northern that will attend the University of Michigan this fall, and she has even received several merit scholarships. “I want to major in biochemistry and maybe spanish with a premed focus. The reason why I have chosen this major is because first of all I love biochemistry, but also I have heard that Michigan’s biochemistry program is very difficult and I like to have a challenge,” Reid says.

One of Reid´s closest friends, Senior Hannah Thomas-Perez, says, “She (Isabel) truly cares for one another and will one day change the world with her smile, intelligence, and love for everyone around her.

She has helped teach me that it is okay to make mistakes and grow from them.”

Reid is undeniably bound to accomplish great things in the future due to her genuity and passion. Thomas-Perez adds, “I can not wait to see Photo Courtesy of Isabel Reid to taking different opportunities by where she will go in the future because learning from new experiences. For I can say without a doubt she will be example, her family has hosted for- doing big things in life and making an eign exchange students from Ger- impact on others.” many and Spain. Reid says, “I feel like hosting these people taught me how to welcome a new person into my home and into my family. It taught me how important an understanding of global Design byKatie Knight

Senior Edition 29

20

20

MUSIC MEMORIES Memories and advice from music department seniors

..

•

“Overall my greatest memories are meeting and singing with all these amazing people. I know I won’t be able to do it again and I’m really going to miss it. It will be something I remember for a lifetime.” - Ashley Sheldon

•

“My favorite memory is Choral Festival, when we were singing holding hands we were a family.” - Alanna Calhoun

•

“I had so much fun on the New York trip my Junior year. Being able to explore the city with my friends was one of my favorite memories ever. Along with just being in the city, we had the incredible opportunity to sing Mass in Blue, my favorite choral piece, with the composer in Lincoln Center.” - Ben Eiler

•

“Favorite memory? I can’t choose just one. The whole experience was the best time of my life and the best choice I made in high school by far.” - Claire Pelak

•

“My favorite PN Band memory was traveling to Ireland in 2018 and performing in Christ Church Cathedral.”-Melissa McKenzie

•

“Do not fear the music! It may be challenging at first, but that is okay! Play as loud as you can (or what the music asks for) and if you make mistakes, that is always okay because you will learn from them.” - Anika Gullapalli

•

“If you want to become a better musician, start taking private lessons. Private teachers give you suggestions for improvement based on your unique playing style, which you can’t get from simply playing in orchestra.” - Justin Hamlin

•

“My advice is don’t push your voice attempting something not physically possible at the moment, your voice grows as you get older and you should embrace the voice you were given.” - Jordan Bruner

•

“Never take anything for granted. Time is so valuable, that you have to live every moment like it’s your last. Don’t waste time because you’ll never get that time back. Always give 110% with everything you do... Set the bar high. Just be you. Don’t ever let anyone stop you. You are you. You control you. In the end, you’re all you’ve got.

Make yourself proud and others will notice.” - Maddie Blubaugh

•

“Have fun. Don’t worry about trivial things, just enjoy making and listening to music.” - Shannon Abbott

30 Senior Edition

Design by Astrid Code Photos courtesy of Carol Corey and Rose Hellmers.

Portage Northern Light

THE SHOW MUST GO ON:

By Kaylin Kyle

Every year, teens aspire to find something unique to them: a catch, a hook, something to stand out among the others. Two senior boys found that niche and went the extra mile in their passion for music, playing in the wellknown student band Hazy Minds.

H o w it s t a r te d Class of 2020 members John Becker and Sean Kellogg came together and created Hazy Minds, which also includes sophomore Robert Becker and Class of 2019 graduate Elliot Krieger.

Their story all started in early 2019.

“Sean and I had been friends and had been playing guitar together for a long time, and we wanted to start a band,” John said. “Our band had formed about two summers ago,” added Sean.

John is the lead guitarist, Sean is a singer and guitarist, Robert plays bass guitar, and Elliot plays the drums. “My brother plays bass so that was an easy choice,” John explained, “and then we met Elliot through mutual friends.”

From left: John Becker, Sean Kellogg, and Robert Becker strum their guitars at a Hazy Minds show.

Photo courtesy of Justin Rollins.

Stepping Stones Hazy Minds has performed several gigs during the school year and summer, with most of them taking place within the Portage and Kalamazoo area. In the past, the band has correlated shows with another band, Known Orbit, whose members are all Portage Northern alumni. This current school year, Hazy Minds had planned on performing in PN’s talent show, but their plans had to be altered June 2020

how one student band plans to keep the music going after graduation due to quarantine circumstances.

Hazy Minds prepares to open for Known Orbit.

Photo courtesy of Justin Rollins.

What Makes Hazy Minds?

John and Sean each have their own individual musical inspirations that contribute to how they approach the band. Some of Sean’s inspirations include Dennis DeYoung, Freddie Mercury and Steven Howe, while John’s inspirations include Nirvana, Slow Hollows and Nothing. “I think the fact that we all have different musical styles and experiences actually helps us diversify our music, and helps to keep us making new and different types of music,” John said. “Honestly, I find it hard to put us into any one specific genre. We have a pretty diverse range. Some that might fit into a rock or grunge, some into more jazzlike, and others that fall into indie and alternative.” Sean also brings a unique element to the mix: synesthesia. The main thing he considers when writing music is how it looks to him. “My senses overlap,” he shared. “So when writing music, I always make sure the chords tessellate, and that any one part is not overwhelmingly bright that it distracts from the main melody line.”

Moving Forward Due to quarantine, things have come to a standstill for Hazy Minds.

“We’re planning on doing shows as soon as we’re able,” John shared. “Although the quarantine is setting us back a little, it also gives each of us time to work on writing/improving songs to perform in the future.” Before Design by Gabe Flota

the quarantine, the band had begun to record some songs for release on Spotify, Apple Music and other music platforms. “As soon as we can pick that back up we will,” John said. The band is also working on merchandise for fans.

The band knows, however, that college might take them their separate ways. They’ve agreed that if the group separates, each member will retain the rights to the songs they’ve written.

Sean shares, “to me, Hazy Minds feels like a stepping stone . . . I hope to find a band during or after college that likes music as much as I do.” John wants to continue to write and perform music for as long as he can: “Whether that be with Hazy Minds, doing solo projects, playing with other bands or more likely, a combination,” he explained.

Hazy Minds at their last pre-quarantine show.

Photo courtesy of Justin Rollins.

In the meantime, Hazy Minds is looking for a sound guy to add onto their experiences and to better how the band makes their music, and John has a word of encouragement to his fellow music-loving peers: “I would urge anyone who is thinking about forming a band or making music in any way to just go for it. It’s such a great experience and if music is something you’re drawn to, you won’t regret doing it.”

To book Hazy Minds for a gig, message their Instagram @hazymindsband or email hazymindsband@ gmail.com. The rates change based on what type of gig it is, but normally a private show prices at about $80.

Senior Edition 31

Business Department Senior Sign Off

Tim Scrakengast at JA Titan competition.

Buisness teachers Paffhausen, Meyer, and Patterson pose for a silly photo.

Makinzie Polley and Grace Culpg at Meyer Marketplace.

Mrs. Meyer rocking her senior picture.

32 Senior Edition

Design by Katie Knight

Max Todas and Jasmine Gonzalez at JA.

Portage Northern Light

LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION! Carter Wells sets the stage for after graduation

By Abigail VanderBurg It’s a fortunate thing when a hobby and passion can turn into a career, and Carter Wells is taking steps to do just that as he prepares to attend Belmont University to study audio-visual production. On top of being in the IB diploma program, Carter has been on the sound crew for many PN plays and musicals.

Audio-visual production is a broad area of study. “[It] is basically a fancy way of saying cinematography and sound design,” he explains. “The appeal was combining both of my interests in a different way.” Cinematography is one aspect of AV that Carter is particularly interested in. “Most people don’t consider movies a work of art,” he explains, “but if you pay attention close to the cinematography, the movement of the camera, editing, etc., you will realize how amazing it can be.” He even wrote a movie visual analysis essay for school.

Carter has always had an interest in the fine arts: “For as long as I can remember, I have been into art in g e n e r a l ,” he explains. “Ever since then it has been a long process of realizing that my interest in video and audio could go together.” His interest is clearly illustrated in a childhood memory: “I remember when I was 5 or 6, my little sister and I would play games where I was the director of a movie we would act out.”

June 2020

That love grew throughout his childhood, resulting in an AV piece in the WMS talent show when he was an 8th grader and then transitioning into work in the high school plays and musicals. “Since he wasn’t involved in any extra-curricular activities, I encouraged him to

Design by Gabe Flota

try out for tech crew for WMS’s Musical. He ran sound for that and really enjoyed it,” his mother Angela shares.

“I loved seeing him at the sound booth.”

His former video accomplice and sister Audrey, now a sophomore, sees this as a natural transition for him. “I think Carter’s work with audio-visual production fits him,” she shares. “He has years of experience working with sound equipment in musicals, plays, and at church and has always enjoyed it.”

Even during quarantine, Carter continued to pursue his passion. “He set a goal to learn to play piano on our keyboard, and he did! He even composed a song and added other instruments with some sound software on his computer,” Angela shares.

A degree in audio-visual production at Belmont will prepare Carter with the skills necessary to create videos for a variety of industries, including the music industry, as well as training and marketing videos for businesses. It will also train him to prepare multimedia and digital content.

While at college, Carter will have access to state of the art audio and video equipment in a variety of lab settings. Angela thinks the sky is the limit for her son: “He is determined to do new things, and I think that will help him find new meaningful things in the future.”

Senior Edition 33

2020 Huskies:

You got this.

Keep making art! -Ms. Nott

34 Senior Edition

Design by Sarah Nott

Portage Northern Light

by Syed Daniyal Many seniors are planning on making the journey to college in the Fall, some just across town and others across the country. Margaux Gendre will be continuing her education

it gives them more than one option as they begin their studies.

Margaux will start off as a political science major with an undecided minor. “I will probably choose something in world economics, because it’s related and they have a lot of interesting courses in that area,” she pondered.

While the university is in a different c o u n t r y, Margaux expects to Concordia University, Canada. Photo Courtesy of www.concordia.ca. feel right at home. roughly 707 miles northeast, out of First, there’s the language. French America and into Canada. is Margaux’s first language, and “in For Margaux, Concordia University Montreal, they speak both French Montreal was an easy choice. Margaux and English, and legally all signs are has full French citizenship and France in both languages,” she explained. has an accord with Quebec, so her ed- Second, there’s the culture. “It’s in the ucation there will cost the same price city center and it has a lot of students, as though she were a Canadian stu- and I like places with lots of different dent. “It’s about $15,000 a year includ- kinds of people. I’m excited to meet ing room and board,” she explained. new people in a different type of enDuring her time there, she will attain a vironment.” Third, she won’t be alone Canadian student visa. there. “I have family friends there and Concordia first came onto Mar- friends from childhood whose friends gaux’s radar in 2007 when her sister are going there,” she said, “so I will just was looking at it as an option. “She have to find them on campus when I decided not to go there, but I started get there.” thinking at that time that it might be Because of her citizenship, Margaux something I was interested in,” she had the chance to go to college in the said. Concordias also allows students US and France, too, but she declined to apply for many programs at once, so both. American colleges were pricey June 2020

Design by Rawan Alsaedi

and didn’t offer the right academic fit, and French colleges didn’t fit the bill either. “France isn’t doing the best as a country, and it would be very difficult to get into college there with an American high school diploma,” she explained. “In France, the education is less general and geared toward your future study. It is more advanced and more focused, and the college admissions process is more competitive.”

While she will be far away, she plans to come back when she can. “Flights are cheap from Montreal to Detroit and Detroit to Kalamazoo,” she said, and she has friends in mind already that she knows she will want to come home to see.

Margaux is sure of the immediate future, but not as certain about the long term, particularly after college.

“It depends on the state of the world,” she said. “Permanent residence is difficult to get in Canada, so when my student visa runs out, I will see where the different countries are economically and politically, and make my decision then.” Whatever the future holds,

Photo Courtesy of Catherine Roué.

anybody who knows Margaux knows that it will most certainly include adventure.

Advertisements Senior Edition 35

NORTHERN LIGHT SENIOR SIGN OFFS THE NORTHERN LIGHT CLASS OF 2020 SAYS GOODBYE

Brianna Neuhouser Brianna Neuhouser, Digital Media Manager How do I even start this? The Northern Light has been one of the only constants in my high school career and the idea of not being able to have that anymore is terrifying. I have met my best friends through this program and I have been able to discover so many things about myself. I am more creative than I ever would’ve thought before journalism.

I am forever grateful to the program for opening my eyes to what my passion truly was. I’m thrilled to continue my education at Michigan State University, where I will double major in journalism and secondary education with a minor in English. I hope to return to Portage Public Schools to teach with the teachers who changed my life forever. I advise everyone to try journalism. It is the best thing that could’ve ever happened to me and I honestly don’t have the words to express my gratitude towards my staff, my adviser, to MIPA. đ&#x;“Œ Snigda Narisetty, Co-Editor in Chief Oddly enough, journalism started as a filler class in my sophomore year, a simple credit that wouldn’t be wasted

36 Senior Edition

Snigda Narisetty with a seminar. Fast forward three years and I am writing a goodbye, as an Editor-in-Chief, to the staff and publication I called my second family for so long. I will never forget how incredible it was to see students who joined alongside me grow and develop into experienced young writers.

The Northern Light will forever be something that I will proudly remember and share as an important part of my life. The people, as well as the experience, have changed my perspective about journalists and writing drastically. I never imagined I would be stepping down from my role as Editor in such a crazy time in the world, a time where journalism is more important than ever. To the rest of the NL staff, I am wholeheartedly confident that the Northern Light will be in some amazing hands next year and I adore all of you and your dedication to keeping the school informed and entertained :). I am so blessed to have all these memories to hold close and to call y’all my family for the rest of my life. đ&#x;“Œ Rawan Alsaedi, Staff Member If you’re anything like me, this year had felt like a dream...I had finally arrived to stand

Rawan Alsaedi under the hard-earned spotlight of my senior year. I ordered my cap and gown and awaited the day when I would sit next to my best friend and hear our names called at graduation. And then, like a clap of thunder jarring me back to reality, I woke up from my picture-perfect dream. I spent days wallowing in grief over the missed opportunities I worked so hard for. I know that many of you feel the same way, but here is the thing: instead of grieving, it’s good to take some time and reflect on the past four years of our lives. A big part of mine has been the Northern Light, where I learned so much about journalism as well as about myself. I’m glad that I joined the class because I would’ve never discovered my passion for designing otherwise. I’m also thankful for having a supporting adviser like Mrs. Thorpe, and an awesome staff who created a fun and welcoming environment, allowing me to express myself freely through writing and designing. I’m excited to see what’s next for the staff, because although my time here might be over, PN will always have a place in my heart. đ&#x;“Œ

Design by Staff

Syed Daniyal Syed Daniyal, Staff Member When sitting down to write this, I realized that I had never taken the moment to think about what being a part of the Portage Northern Light means to me and how much it has affected me as an individual.

I had taken Journalism 1 in 10th grade as a sort of “blow off� class to have a chance to relax in the midst of my other classes. Ironically, out of all the classes I took sophomore year, J1 ended up teaching me the most about myself. Primarily, it gave me confidence in my writing abilities that I relied on all throughout high school. But I feel like I am most thankful for the experience it gave me. What makes journalism such a cool opportunity is that unlike other classes, we don’t study the great and important journalists of the past, but rather we become actual journalists. That being said, one of the most important parts to me was working together and growing close as a team. I’ve always admired the Portage Northern Light staff’s efficiency and determination, even in the years where I was not on staff.

While the craziness of the world cut my time on the staff short, I will always treasure my time writing for the Northern Light. đ&#x;“Œ

Portage Northern Light

Malcolm Gaynor, Co-Editor in Chief When I joined the PN Light staff my sophomore year, I didn’t know a single person.

I was just a quiet kid who liked to write. I still remember nervously walking into the lab my first day, hoping I wouldn’t accidentally sit in somebody else’s seat. During my time with the PN Light, I have changed so much. It's indescribable how different I am now than I was on that first day. Not only did I accomplish so much and meet so many great friends, but being a part of this staff has played a huge part in changing me into the person I am today. Journalism class became something I looked forward to every day, and it is impossible to express how much thanks I owe Mrs. Thorpe. There is nobody I have ever met who cares so much about the people around her as Mrs. Thorpe. One day, I hope to have the same positive impact on the people around me that she has every day. And I also want to thank everyone who was a part of the PN Light while I was here. Every edition we made, every article I wrote, and everything I designed was a combined effort, and as I say goodbye to the PN Light, I already can’t wait to see what great things you all will accomplish next year! đ&#x;“Œ Gabe Flota, Creative Editor As I type out this message, I realize how quickly my time

Malcolm Gaynor

June 2020

here on staff has flown by. I remember when I first joined, not knowing a thing about design and just being eager to write. I am really glad I had the opportunity to learn the skills and tools that finally helped me realize my passion for graphic design, and I am glad I had a chance to put these to use designing for our paper over the last few years. Being on staff has given me so many cool experiences that I would have never otherwise had, and for that I will always be grateful. I would like to thank my fellow staff, for dedicating their own time and skills into making our paper great, and Dr. Thorpe, who always had our back through thick and thin and who never failed to make our staff feel like a family. I will miss the unique environment that I got to be a part of as a member of staff; it is hard to describe it in words, but it was definitely something. As we move on into the future, I look forward to seeing the hard work of our next generation of writers and designers as they follow in our footsteps and continue to make this paper great. đ&#x;“Œ

The goodbye I have been dreading all year. The goodbye to The Northern Light. When I began my senior year, I had no idea it would fly by so fast and that I would have to close it off in such a sad but unique - way. Truly, no

goodbye is harder than the one to this class, because it was always much more than a class. Journalism held a deeper sentimental value to me because in a school full of fourteen hundred kids, it was this specific room of thirty with a special teacher that made me actually feel talented beyond typical core classes like math and science. Speaking of this special teacher, Mrs. Thorpe has been an all around support system for my high school years. These four years are not as easy as some may make them sound and they are certainly not as lighthearted as movies illustrate them to be. High school is an uphill and downhill road where I did feel alone, but it was Mrs. Thorpe who turned several of my downs into ups. Every time it got harder to keep holding on, she eased the stress. This kind of bond went beyond journalism. In terms of journalism, I realized a flair deep inside of me that came out the first time I stepped into the intro to journalism class in freshman year. I think back to that time: I was so nervous and barely let my personality shine through at school, and with each passing year it was in journalism class I gained more and more confidence to be myself. The staff is a team, so everybody's voice gets heard. With every new edition, everyone would contribute their ideas and at the end the newsmagazine that would come out in the month would be a piece of every staff

Gabe Flota

Komalpreet Kaur

Komalpreet Kaur, Staff Member

Design by Staff

member. Overall, journalism is not only a defining aspect of my high school career, but also a defining aspect of this stage in my life where my peers and I are all just trying to figure out who we are. Knowing the accepting and positive environment the class has, I feel great about the hands of Mrs. Thorpe and current and future staff members that we leave the Northern Light in. đ&#x;“Œ Kaylin Kyle Staff Member Four years later; my Huskie charade is coming to an end, and with quite an unforgettable end at that.

These four years held trials and tribulations both within the school halls and out, but somewhere among those were happiness, joy, and everlasting memories.

My senior year, I wanted to experience something different, something creative and unique to my person.

The Northern Light provided me that. While my days were numbered, I was able to step out of my comfort zone and see different perspectives of PN. I'll forever be thankful for the experiences and opportunities life as a Huskie presented me, but now it's time to take the next step: after all: adventure’s out there! đ&#x;“Œ

Kaylin Kyle

Senior Edition 37

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Senior Edition 39