September 2016 Edition by Portage Northern Light

T H E

VOLUME 47 ISSUE 1

the northern light

2016-17 Staff

Letter from the editorial staff

Cortney Chow, Editor in Chief

Dear Reader,

Carter Landis, Sports Editor

Thank you for picking up our publication. Nice to meet ya! As a newspaper, we strive to write and record student news. One might even say “By Students for Students,” like Kidz Bop. Sorry. Not to toot our own horn, but everything about this publication is studentmade; the pictures, the articles, and the designs. As a staff, we work to broadcast what is happening in the world and how it affects our students. Whether it be a new internet trend, recent legislation, or a shoutout to our own hardworking sports teams, the Northern Light has you covered. So, Reader, flip through the paper and soak it in. After all, you’re stuck with us until June 10 (more or less). The Northern Light has something for everyone, so sit back, relax, and enjoy the next 14 pages. Sincerely,

Ben Lewis, Chief Designer Meredith Ablao, News Editor Keegan Tenney, Staff Writer Megan Rinock, Copy Editor Lexi Kava, Copy Editor Allison Mckenzie, Feature Editor

The Editorial Staff

Megna Joshi, Website Editor 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 CUT PAGE

September 30, 2016

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10 Political cartoon: People V Turner

t cl Join pn ub the e hs s m c l u b p ow , gui erme ld cl nt b ot h u b , o r .

“He’s f ro m c o m p l ete the s c e n a l y re m ove ri d of h u mani o in terms t y. ”

op le V Tu S rn er

12 What really goes on: sports taken too far? 13 Fall sports preview: show huskie pride 14 Fall sports preview: cheer them on

TA B L E O F C O N T E N T S

08 Infographic: the cold truth 11 Pro v con: take-a-knee

#BlackLives Matter F E A

Wha t has to ? R A m e ace rica i s te c o m apar aring us e t

N T A

T I

06 New hat policy: hat wears rejoice

06 Kzoo tragedy: DQ & Savie

05 New changes: meet the staff

Bu THE r ba kin i n

15 Movie review: Sullly takes flight 15 Yeezy fashion recap: hit or miss? H

Franc e s e cts ’ s b u r k i n i ot h e r b a n d m u s t re l i g i o n i s re p s be lif te d . a n d

W e di st v an id ed d

I N

I O

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04 Foreign exchange students: an international experience

CONTENTS

Welcome To America! From all around the world, teens have come to spend the 2016-2017 school year with us. Don’t be afraid to introduce yourself, they’re all looking for someone to call a friendly face!

Luis Ferreriro, Spain

Eun-Ji Oh, South Korea

Davide Bonsignore, age 17, from Italy.He likes to play sports.

Vilma Varis, age 16, from Finland, she likes to skate or play ice hockey, and she’s from a big city but is a small town girl so she enjoys being here

Matilda Buehler, Germany

Jaime Cuadra, Spain

Marina Platon, age 15, from Spain, she likes to draw, and this is her first time in America but she’s wanted to come since she was little.

Claudia Perez, Spain

Juan Martin, Spain

Eva Barbolla, Spain

keegan tenney (10) staff writer

Luke Fischer, age 15, from Germany, he loves to sing and dance, and is very curious.

Eleni Charchantis, Germany

4 SPOTLIGHT September

30, 2016

Jimmy Galera, Spain

Nutwara Saeaiao, Thailand

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New clubs at PNHS: anyone can join! If you’re wondering what the loud sounds coming from the media center or the chanting coming from the third floor are, these sounds are none other than two new clubs: The Guild, or Gaming Club, and Empowered Club. The Guild is run by Mr. Rewa and Empowered Club is run by Mrs.Thorpe. The Guild meets every Friday after school in the media center, usually until 5. Empowered Club meets every Tuesday morning at 7:15 for donuts and fellowship in Mrs.Thorpe’s room and also once a month after school to begin planning the Black History Month assembly.

The guild club

Empowered Club

The Guild is a club where people of all ages can come into the media center and play a variety of different games. Rewa said, “Anyone is allowed to come. I only ask that you provide a little information about yourself by completing a survey and that you are have good sportsmanship and respect for each other.” The club had 30 participants show up for their most recent meeting and is expected to grow as the year goes on. While the club might seem literally like all fun and games, it also helps with creativity and academics. “Role playing games like Dungeons and Dragons involve a lot of creativity in creating characters and making decisions,” says Rewa. These are skills that can help make students stronger, not just in the Guild, but in the classroom as well.

Empowered Club was created after the 2015-2016 black history month assembly. Thorpe says, “the club aims to create a positive and supportive peer group for African American students at PNHS in addition to participating in activities that will make our wonderful school more culturally-inclusive and welcoming for all.” Empowered club is planning on bringing in guest speakers as well as visiting Boys and Girls Club for recreational trips to the YMCA, and put on the annual school-wide Black History Month Assembly. When asked about the club, leader Torrel Bates stays “the reason I joined the club because it’s really important to me. Being a black woman it is nice to have somewhere to talk about not only being black, but other issues in the world as well.” The club however is open to all races, it is a great place to express you opinions and help out the community.

megna joshi (12) copy editor

Both new clubs were represented at Club Fair and one of them even received an award. The clubs were judged based on how many students signed up for the club, the attention the club got at the club fair as well as presentation of the board and creativeness of the booth. The winners were:

$50 $30

Science Olympiad (Mr. Olsen)

$30 $30

MYIG: Michigan Youth in Government (Mrs. Dixon)

$30

The Guild Club(Mr. Rewa)

$30

Latin Club(Mrs. Friedman)

Interact Club(Mr. Hill)

Yoga Club (Ms. Paynich)

Joining clubs is a great way to meet new people and try new things. Bring your friends and come to some new clubs!

Fresh new faces at PNHS: meet the new staff!

Freshman aren’t the only ones learning their way around the school this year. There are also 13 new staff members who are calling Portage Northern home! While they are not as nervous as the freshman, these new faces still had to learn the ropes -or rather, the stairs- around the school. Art teacher Liz Honeysett has always loved art and wanted to be an art teacher. “When I was 4, I tried to draw my parents’ dining room in perspective,” she shared. “I tried other careers, but I always came back to teaching.” On the other hand, FACS teacher Adam Cardona wanted to be a professional baseball player, not a teacher. “My high school baseball coach had a big impact on me, and now I want to be able to have an impact on my students like he had on me,” he said. Cardona is from Florida and is missing the saltwater and not looking forward to winter. “In Florida, winter lasted about 4 hours in February and you could have your fishing gear out year ‘round,” he laughed. “The feeling of belonging and the sense of community here makes up for it...except the cold.” English teacher Stephanie Engel is among a handful of new staff who are experienced

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teachers from other districts. “One of the things I noticed is that teens are teens; the students here don’t really seem that different than the students in Byron Center. I am still getting used to seeing on phones in the hallway, though!” she said. Mrs. McKenzie, who came from Kalamazoo Central, loves Northern but would make some changes if she could. “I miss getting out at 2:25 and brown is not my color,” she said jokingly. Special Education teacher Laurie Kuiper came from West Middle School. “The thing I like most is having my own classroom here,” she said. “I do like the bigger building too, now that I know where everything is.” The new teachers are each making their mark in their own way. Math teacher Megan Neterer has her freshman Algebra 1 students playing math detectives to use their knowledge of order of operations and positive number rules to solve a mystery. “I created a Guess The Teacher activity where the kids have to use their math skills to work out problems and then guess which of their teachers the problem might refer to. 33 teachers are included!” she said.

gabbie byers (10)||staff writer

English

Stephanie Engel

Transition

Megan Richter

Math

Athletic Trainer

Speical Ed.

FACS

M e g a n N e t e re r

Julie Griffin

Megan Hall

Adam Cardona

Auto Tech

Counseling

Special Ed.

School Psych

Michael Lara

Julie Clark

Kelsey Kuipers

Laura Robinson

Math

Cheryl McKenzie

September 30, 2016 NEWS

Kalamazoo

meredith ablao news editor

tragedy

Photo by Mark Bugnaski

The Edison Avenue alleyway where DQ and Sadie died is quiet in the aftermath.

“DQ was super funny. He did not want to be in “It’s a tragic thing when young teens die. I The fact that it lead to what it lead to was just drama, but by the end he would always come wish things didn’t turn out this way, but we a reminder of the tragedy and the loss guns around. [As well as] Savie, who clearly had some can only learn from this,” contemplated Beycan lead to,” said Weeks. This is yet another rough [times] in life. I think [drama] was a good za Niefert(11). tragic example of the gun violence--intentionoutlet for him, and he actually loved performing Along with Niefert, several students share ally and unintentionally-- that has plagued the and loved the attention. They both came a long these same thoughts over two recent death Kalamazoo area. Savie and DQ are two out of way,” she shared. Not only were they memorable in the Kalamazoo community. Seventeen the 10,106 deaths by gun violence this year in in the classroom, but also in the year old Darquarion Hunter (DQ) graduated America; now there are two community. “It was shockfrom Loy Norrix High School this past June, more local Kalamazoo faces ing because I just had seen and Marsavious Frazier (Savie) -also sevbehind the numbers. Many Savie [around]. That’s a lot to enteen- was a Phoenix High School senior. students grasp this incident handle,” said Whitley. “I didn’t Both students were found dead in an alley in as a tragic mistake. As Whitknow DQ that well but I did know Savie a little. We the 1500 Block of Clinton Avenue around 9 ley said, “it wasn’t like they were bad had a small talk before and he followed me on sopm on Monday September 5th. people, they had good heads cial media,” said Niefert. “One motivator we need One of the teens had a gun, accidentally on their shoulders, but to pull from this is getting guns out of our kids’ shooting at the other teen. Overwhelmed guns ain’t no hands in communities,” said Drayke Simpkins(12). with what just happened, he turned the gun toy.” According to http://www.nij.gov/, people between on himself. This left local public school stuthe ages 15 and 24 are most likely to be targeted dents confused and broken due to unnecesby guns opposed to other forms of viosary gun violence in the Kalamazoo area. lence. “I think this is a horrible “Just thinking, like, only 17 and got ya whole reminder of how danlife ahead of you and now they gone man,” fer hae c gerous guns said Tavian Whitley (12), who knew Savie s eron iter are. and DQ from growing up in the same area. cam taff wr s English teacher CeCe Weeks, a former Loy Norrix staff member, had taught both of the boys in drama class their Sophomore year and Some may say it was the baseball cap, snapback hat, or even the beanie that remembers them both as very sparked one of the biggest controversies to ever hit Portage Northern. In all seriousmemorable students. ness, whoever the victim may be, a revolution of hat-wearing has begun and preparation must be done. The dangerous powers of hat wearing, such as disrupting the learning process of students and possessing the minds of innocent staff members, are highly underestimated. But in reality, what a person chooses to wear is one of the many ways they are able to express who they are and what they are interested in. So let the newly introduced hat-wearing policy take reign. Many administrators and staff in the past have not only believed hats to be a distraction as they shift students’ focus away from learning and towards what their peers are wearing as they stroll through the hallways, but also as a sign of disrespect. At the tail end of last school year, the administrators got together to discuss the policy. They concluded that it was not being enforced as strictly as they thought. Students who chose to wear a hat to school were only occasionally being told by staff to take off their hat, while other times staff would not say a word about it. “We found that in regards to hats, there was so much inconsistency in terms of what staff was asking students to do,” says assistant principal Mr. Walker. Not only was this policy not held consistently, it was preventing relationship building between the staff and students. “I don’t want to spend all of our time when we see a student, instead of talking about how they are doing, our first interaction is “take the hat off””says Principal Mr. French. Ultimately it was decided that the benefits of having the “no hats allowed” policy did not outweigh the costs of unclear guidelines and poor interaction between staff and students. “I always thought the policy was a little ridiculous,” says Charles Gower (12), a student who could be the most overjoyed about the administrator’s decision to allow the wearing of hats in school from here on out. Not a single day went by last year where Gower did not wear his hat in school. He was told by only a select few to remove his hat, meanwhile a majority of other staff members never noticed it or spoke up. Ultimately, Gower didn’t wear the hat to distract his peers in the classrooms or hallways, he wore it to express himself through fashion. Gower’s persistency in wearing a hat every single day last year is one spark that ignited a change in the hat policy. Because he expressed his opinion on the matter and never gave up on the issue, he helped make a change in our school. “I think it’s better that people can wear hats now because they aren’t complaining about it,” said freshman Haley Jackson. Voicing her opinion, “It’s kind of like socks, people can wear really crazy socks and they don’t care about your socks, so what is the difference?” said Gracie McGrath (9). With Portage Northern’s improved hat policy comes even more freedom, allowing students the opportunity to further express who they are as a person. Say goodbye to the miscommunication and lack of building solid relationships between staff and students and hello to the happy hat-wearing heads.

“That’s a lot to handle,” said Tavian Whitley (12)

F F O Y s C I L t O P a T HN E W H A

THE

6 NEWS

September 30, 2016

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A NATION

DIVIDED

Politics Polarized: The 2016 Election lily antor (11) entertainment editor

tic

allison mcKenzie (11) feature editor

vid

demi jensen (11) staff writer

Orlando: Further divided

lin

the fact that the black community is not the only group of people facing violence; Syrians have been forced to flee their country, ISIS terrorists have attacked targets in the United States and Europe, and gun violence continues to plague local communities. The goal of Black Lives Matter is not to dismiss the other groups of people affected by violence, but rather to unite and create a community that can focus on one area of our nation’s violence and one group of people who have been systematically subject to it for hundreds of years. “BLM is important because it gives us the right to speak our minds and get together to fight against the injustice that has taken place,” states Bynum.

Not so typical stereotypes: Blending the social wall at Portage Northern

“Everywhere you look right now, there is some kind of election advertisement. Whether it’s on TV, online, or just a yard sign, everyone knows the names Trump and Clinton,” said Camden Kalleward (11). With just two months until the election, campaigns are in full swing, political rhetoric used by both candidates is in the process of being perfected, and heated Facebook and Twitter posts have become an inevitable aspect of social media. Despite the obvious tensions surrounding elections, this year seems It to be particularly brutal. USA Today reports that both candidates are the most despised major party contenders in thirty years, according to collected data from conducted polling. Yet both presidential hopefuls have a was passionate following base, aggressive and going to extreme measures to advance their - hopeful the future president. “It’s a really touchy topic,” said Victoria Pierce (12), “We need to have diversity, “Stereotypes worst but to an extent we need to be able to compromise. On social media I always see stuff like are when mass ‘Trump is so horrible’ and ‘Hillary is awful”. It’s hurting our country though, because we you judge shooting the see so many strong opinions that don’t always have the proper context behind somebody before U.S. has ever seen. them. The more we hate on each other, the less we can get done.” Increased you know them,” said On June 12, 2016, political polarization is on the rise, which deeply impacts the amount of Tj Jackson (12). Nerds, Omar Mateen killed 50 work Congress can accomplish, leading to severe government preps, jocks, emos, and innocent civilians at Pulse, forums becoming grid-locked. This dissatisfaction among hippies are all descriptions a gay nightclub in downtown the public regarding the 2016 election seems to stem that come to mind when thinking Orlando, Florida. This tragedy from the general prospect that “The nominee’s of the word “stereotypes.” These affected too many people to count, need to stop thinking about competition stereotypes are clearly defined and including our own students here or ridiculous solutions to problems prevalent throughout the classic high at Portage Northern. “How could I sit and start thinking about what school movie or tv show, and no two types back and hide who I was when there were is good for the public” talk to each other or hang around each other people being killed for the same reason?” Caelan Frazier because the action can be thought of as lame. said Eli Cartier (12), who recently came out as (10).... When taking a look at Portage Northern, there are bisexual. “Nobody should have to fear being who obviously a wide variety of students with several different they are in order to please others.” There is no doubt interests and hobbies. Some stereotypes do exist, but there that this country is flawed and somewhat divided. The is a growing trend of students who transcend stereotypes. The Orlando shooting is yet another example of how ignorance changing environment has not gone unnoticed, either. “I have and homophobia runs prevalent throughout our nation. For as not seen any stereotypes at PN. Here, we are blended,” said Colin long as we have known, hate has caused innocent lives to be lost. Mcnees (9). Who exactly are some of the courageous students that Whether the divide is due to race, religion, age, political party, or broke the barriers and blended the stereotypes? One student who sexuality, it is undeniable that something needs to change or particularly comes to mind when thinking about doing it all is these injustices will continue to occur. Homophobia within Madz Vanwinkle (12). She’s involved in senate, yoga club, our country may be decreasing, but we are a long way During forensics, theater, and she’s on the JV tennis team. Not away from being accepting as a whole. “The past is t h e to mention, Vanwinkle also is an IB diploma candidate over and now it is not okay to hate people due to month of July, and helps choreograph the middle school’s musicals sexuality, race, or religion,” said Cartier. The Kalamazoo held for fun. “I do theatre because I love to sing, Orlando shooting was not just an attack on a peaceful Black Lives dance and act, plus musicals are a blast. citizens in our country, but a personal Matter rally in Bronson Park When I was in middle school I absolutely attack on the LGBTQ community. “I’ve after the recent incidents of violence loved the atmosphere of the musical previously dated girls and at the time affecting the black community nationwide. rehearsals and that was mostly of the shooting, I couldn’t help Open to everyone, the rally was filled with due to the fact that I adored my but think what it would’ve done powerful speeches, signs, poetry, music, and praise. high school directors,” shared to my girlfriend and I,” said “At one point, we were in a crowd with hundreds of random Vanwinkle. She hasn’t always Grace Beam (11). “We all people and we were told to stare into the eyes of someone we had the easiest go with love and hate and have didn’t know and it was completely silent. It was so beautiful I actually things and has been feelings, so why would started crying tears of happiness. It was just to show that everyone has a classified into many someone target story,” shared rally participant Olivia Bynum (12). The Black Lives Matter movement of the stereotype a gay club/bar began to grow after the murder of Trayvon Martin in 2012, opening up the country’s eyes categories. to make a to violence surrounding the black community. Stories began to surface in the media of police point?” brutality, unjust punishments/trials, and more recently, mass shootings. It is impossible to ignore

lyndsey case (12) staff writer

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#BlackLivesMatter

September 30, 2016

FEATURE

cortney chow (12)||editor-in-cheif

8 FEATURE September 30, 2016

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Burkini BAN France’s new law prohibiting the popular Muslim swimwear lexi kava (11) | copy editor A young muslim woman is sitting on a Paris beach enjoying the day. The birds are singing, the sun is shining, and the waves are crashing. The sounds of children laughing echo through the air; the day seems perfect. That is until three armed French police officers approach her, demanding she either take off her burkini or leave. The woman, humiliated, tries to fight for her rights only to end up stripping the fabric of her culture off in front of the whole beach. People watching scream insults at her as she leaves the beach, and her perfect day has now taken a turn for the worst. After the Niles terror attack in France, French leaders introduced a new law to the people: a ban on burkinis. A burkini is a bathing suit that covers the whole body except the hands, feet, and face. It was designed for Muslim women to keep their modesty and culture while at the beach. It essentially looks like a wet suit, which is one of the arguments protesters make; if a ban can be placed on burkinis,

why can people still wear wet suits? The religious divide seems to be the issue. “They must accept our way of life,” said a French Mayor shortly after the ban was put in place, “they” clearly meaning Muslims. The ban has sparked protests all over French cities and beaches. A Muslim woman who wished to remain anonymous for her safety told CNN news reporters, “Because people who have nothing to do with my religion have killed, I can no longer go to the beach.” After many protests and debates on the topic, the French Supreme Court decided to suspend the burkini ban. Still, many French mayors have said that it did not matter and they would still enforce the ban on their beaches. The ban is a cruel way for French people to get back at Muslims for the terror attacks that occurred in Paris and Niles, even though those terrorists were extremists and not representative of Muslims in general. The debate as to whether or not any government should have the right to strip someone’s culture away from them continues, and it is likely only a matter of time before similar bans are enforced in other countries.

French authorities assert, “They [Muslims] must accept our way of life.” This is WRONG.

Graders Graded? gabby byers (10) | journalism 1 writer We all know how it goes: the students take the test and the teachers grade us, but who gets to grade the teachers? Should it be a school administrator, who might sit in their class for 30 minutes or less, or a student who spends an hour a day with that teacher? Grades are tremendously important to students. There is huge pressure to get good grades; so much so that it feels like school isn’t even about learning anymore, it’s all about getting an A on the next test and then moving on to studying for the next one as soon as possible, basically guaranteeing that you’ll forget everything from the first test until you start to panic about it at finals time. Students get graded on what they do every single day in class, and our grades can affect what college we go to and what job we get. Grades determine our future. If the grades teachers give have so much weight on students’ lives, they should at least be able to reflect on the job their teachers are doing. Usually when a student receives a bad grade, the blame is put on them. One way

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Why teacher accountabililty is important

or another, from not studying enough to failing to read carefully, they “earned” the grade they got. Why can’t anyone look at the teachers? Maybe the teacher simply didn’t teach that subject well. Maybe they didn’t recognize the individual ways their students learn and teach in a way that they could understand. Maybe they never even checked to make sure that everyone understood. Maybe they never cared. Students, when was the last time you were asked, “are you being taught well enough?” Teachers giving their students the opportunity to reflect on how they are doing their jobs could help them improve and maybe even get a few new ideas about teaching. The students would do better in the class and also feel more respected and cared about. Maybe student opinions about their teachers could even factor in to a teacher’s evaluation from the principal. Our teachers tell us all the time that school is supposed to prepare us for the “real world.” Even students know that in the real world, just because you can get and keep a job doesn’t mean that you’re good at it. It’s time teachers faced the realities of the “real world” and were graded by the people who interact with them the most: their students.

September 30, 2016

OPINION

Unconsciousness is never an invitation: Stanford protects rapists cortney chow (12)|| editor-in-chief

Her lifeless legs were never an invitation. The grass underneath was never a bed for him to stain. The unconscious girl never mouthed the words yes or asked for him to strip her of her dignity. Yet, there Brock Turn- er stood behind the dumpster, violating a girl unable to defend herself. He exposed her breasts to the world and spun a web of lies, blaming the victim and alcohol for his actions. Not only was he released in 3 months for a standard six year rape sentence (only 4/100ths of the sentence), he has sent the victim through a never ending path of torment and still refuses to own up to his actions. Welcome to America, where being white and wealthy can persuade law enforcement to bend the rules. This is the country that points fingers at the victim and gives longer sentences to those with different skin complexions. The thought of the sexism, racism, and inequality rooted in America forces my right hand away from my heart as I reluctantly mutter, “With liberty and justice for all” at the striped and starred flag. As Turner walks away from his time in jail, what were the reasons for the shortened sentence? His “potential” and “bright future”. “It don’t matter if he has too much potential; he should still have the time. It don’t matter the race or the gender, or anything. It’s the law and he broke the law,” responded Jazmin Ritsema (9).The judge, Aaron Persky, was more “lenient” toward Turner’s case because he had minimal criminal record, however, his bias toward the rich and white are evident. This is because Persky was faced with a similar case with Raul Ramirez, a poor, hispanic male. Ramirez owned up to his mistakes and sincerely apologized unlike Turner. However, the judge Santa Clara County raised his bail $50,000 higher and threw him behind bars for the standard sentence. Thus, the court operates through evident racism and creates “justice” by being color blind. “It’s unfair because if it were any other race, most other races wouldn’t have gotten out as soon,” remarked Seth Hopkins (10). What Hopkins says has volumes of rape cases handled poorly due to the color of someone’s skin to back his claim. Furthermore, this case exposes the sexism that is dominated in the law system, giving women and men no place to turn to when they are violated without consent.

When the victim of the Turner case read her statement, she ultimately felt like she was being treated like a suspect. The court kept asking her questions that seemed to place blame on her. Questions like: “What were you wearing? How were you behaving?” made it evident that Turner’s case revolved around victim blaming. “Victim blaming is really really bad. It’s constant. It even extends down to birth control. So, women are faulted if they’re not prepared or if they get accidentally pregnant. Birth control is hard to get and super expensive, and is highly regulated and often not covered by certain health plans. Whereas men’s sexual assistance pills are both unnecessary and covered. The level of sexism inherent in our system right down to the medical level is mind boggling,” replied Sarah Nott, an art teacher at Portage Northern High School. Furthermore, women still live in a male dominated society and although there have been actions to reverse this societal norm, the court leaves the case for the infringement of women’s rights wide open. “We’re treated unfair so they’re still not used to us because we can be smarter than them and we can do the same things. They don’t like that because we’re female so they expect us to just like die down and be at their command,” said Ritsema. The People v Turner case in no way is justified because there is no justice in racism, sexism, and bias. This case will forever serve as evidence of the poison coursing in America, but this also brings awareness about the injustices that Judge Persky has caused. The judge has received backlash from the nation and not only has ruined his career, he also ruined the victim’s life and tarnished what justice truly is. “I would tell him to sit down, close his eyes, and imagine what he would do to the man who did this to his wife, or niece, or daughter, or even just female cousin for god sake. He’s completely removed from the scenario in terms of humanity,” said Ms. Nott. Additionally, Turner’s father, Dan Turner, is also responsible for the emotional scarring of the victim. His father pleads that the sentence is unfair and believes that it “is a steep price to pay for twenty minutes of action out of his twenty plus years of life.” His father must have been overjoyed to hear the news of a 3 month sentence but is protecting a rapist something worth smiling about? There are no words to describe how a father can dismiss the raped girl in favor of his flawed son.It is time for the citizens of America to open their eyes and see how corrupt the society truly is before more women are raped without consequences.

RAPE

IS INEXCUSABLE “It’s the law and he broke the law.” Jazmin Ritsema (9)

Alcohol is NOT to blame 10 OPINION

September 30, 2016

Drawn by Megan Rinock (11). Due to the influence of wealth and white priviledge on the judicial system, the 3 months Brock Turner served seemed a satisfactory replacement for the 6 years he initially got.

portagenorthernlight.com

Red, White, Standing Up for Sitting Down

and the

carter landis sports editor

When the game of football becomes more than guys tackling each other over a piece of brown pigskin, it becomes a controversial issue in not just the sports world, but also in the world of politics. 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick decided to remain seated rather than stand for the national anthem before a preseason game vs the Packers, saying, “I am not going to stand up to show pride in a flag for a country that oppresses black people and people of color.” This has prompted many responses throughout the entire country, including strong support for Kaepernick, but also lots of hate and criticism. Lots of players around the NFL have backed Kaepernick, but for some others, refusing to stand for the anthem doesn’t sit right with them. Giants lineman Justin Pugh says on Twitter, “I will be STANDING during the National Anthem tonight. Thank you to ALL (Gender, Race, Religion) that put your lives on the line for that flag.” But what those opposing Kaepernick’s actions fail to realize is that his protest stems from very prevalent and vivid racism the United States faces today. In the last few years, tension between people of color in America and the police force has grown, due largely in part to multitudes of innocent black people being killed for seemingly nothing at all. Sandra Bland was killed on her way to a job interview. Eric Garner was killed because he was selling cigarettes on the street. Alton Serling was killed for selling CDs outside of a store. At some point, enough is enough, and people have to stand up for what they believe in...or in Kaepernick’s case, sit down. These are just a few of the many horrifying acts of crime the police have committed against innocent people that made their way to the media’s attention. What Colin Kaepernick is doing is not unpatriotic in any way. In fact, he’s actually showing part of what this country was built on, liberty and justice for all, and refusing to remain silent when those ideals aren’t being upheld. Colin Kaepernick’s refusal to stand for the anthem has brought characteristics out of people that describe exactly what he is protesting about. The angry backlash from very ‘patriotic’ people is frightening to see. From being the subject of racial slurs to watching former fans burn his jersey on social media, Colin Kaepernick is faced with daily representations of the very reason he sat down in the first place. The racism and hate being spewed at him over trying to bring attention to civil rights should not be tolerated; many players and fans alike are calling for him to “keep the flag out of it,” but many of those same people are failing to keep his race out of it when they belittle him. Those who are offended by what he did miss the point, and those who call him unpatriotic and racist are extremely hypocritical, because it’s those people who should be described using those words. Colin Kaepernick is courageous and wise for using his status to bring attention to an important and ever growing problem in society. A change needs to be made. We can not continue to lose innocent people, and we can not continue to just allow this to happen.

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Gray Area

Inbetween

When Sitting Isn’t Peaceful

deidre crowell staff writer

On August 26, 2016, NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick made the daring move to sit during the pre game National Anthem as a form of protest against racial injustice in the United States. Athletes all over the nation are joining him on the platform that they will, as Kaepernick explained to NFL’s Steve Wyche, “not... stand up to show pride in a flag for a country that oppresses Black people and people of color.” Although many have outspokenly defended them, the athletes’ actions are counterproductive and illogical. While the freedom of expression is an undeniable right in the United States, this protest offers no solution and will likely prove to be ineffective. With the influence that professional athletes have, building relationships with those who are disadvantaged by mentoring students or speaking in inner-city schools and neighborhoods would create a more long-term result as opposed to sitting on a bench with no clear or articulated plan to fix the societal issues. While those who are actively protesting the United States’ justice system desire an undivided nation, their actions are inconsistent with that goal. The decision to sit during the national anthem creates an “us against them” mindset and a division among people who might otherwise support the same ideals. As a result, the athletes’ maneuvers are hardly the peaceful protest they claim them to be. Rather than opposing this nation, which is established upon the very freedoms they are exercising, it would be more appropriate and logical for an athlete to stand in honor of those who fought for these rights as a pledge to do whatever he or she can to actively solve the issues at hand. Some of the most influential leaders during the Civil Rights era, such as Martin Luther King Jr. and Dorothy Height, progressed their cause while still honoring their country. They respected their nation and held it as a symbol of hope for the future, understanding that staying unified was essential for the movement to advance. Recent protest behaviors by high-profile athletes counter the goal of unification. Alternative ways to bring attention to pressing social issues exist and create more long-term effects. The current approaches are disrespectful to those who fought and died for the right of the very people who take a knee during the Anthem. Athletes should use their influence to create a message of hope rather than further division.

September 30, 2016

PRO-CON

Wrestling with WEIGHT: G

lexi gavlas (11) spotlight editor

Are highschool sports teams pushing unhealthy habits?

enerally, high school sports are comprised of talented athletes of a competitive nature who love their sport and dedicate their free time to pursue their passion. But sometimes “pursuing their passion” can turn into 15+ hours a week of practice, late night homework sessions, a strict diet, blood, sweat, and tears. At what point does a passion become an unhealthy obsession? It’s no secret that the boys wrestling team puts in extreme amounts of work. The team had several all state finishers in the 2015-16 season, but at what cost? Though it is not encouraged in the high school program, many athletes choose to participate in a practice called “cutting weight.” The practice revolves around the fact that if they can weigh in a few pounds less, they can be matched with someone of a lower weight class. This could include exercising in extreme temperatures to lose excess water weight, a restricted diet, and even purging. There has been much controversy over whether or not the appropriate amount of light is being shed on athletes developing unhealthy habits in order to meet weight classes. Head coach Chris Furlong says this isn’t the case. “We hold our athletes accountable to what they say they are going to weigh and we make sure to the best of our ability that they are always within 5 pounds of their weight class. We have state guidelines that we must follow, and even have a licensed dietician hired to further assist our athletes,” he shared. Keegan Russell (11) supports Furlong’s claims that the coaches are not allowed to push dropping multiple weight classes.

“We hold our atheletes accountable,” - Coach Furlong “If someone wants to be a specific weight class, then it should be done on the off season,” he explained. Other wrestling team members paint a slightly different picture. When asked whether or not a licensed dietician was available for those who were interested in cutting weight, Seth Hopkins (10) replied, “not that I know of.” Gabe Soto (11) knows all about the weight cutting regimens of the high school wrestling season. “On weigh in days, some people wear hoodies and sweatpants [to practice] to sweat off some pounds.” He adds, “The coaches don’t force you to cut weight. If you want to, you can, as long as it’s healthy.” So what exactly is “healthy” according to the MHSAA guidelines? The 20162017 MHSAA Coaches Guidebook only indicates that “it is strongly recommended that the Wrestling Nutrition Program be presented by the local nutrition coordinator to schools.” With guidelines this vague, it is no wonder that questionable practices pervade the sport. Though from the surface, the Portage Northern wrestling program seem to be encouraging athletes to go about the system correctly and safely, it is clear that some athletes push themselves past their coaches’ expectations. “We encourage our wrestlers to wrestle at their natural weight. If they choose to cut weight, that is on them. We do offer several professional[s] to help if needed and other safe ways if they are passionate about doing that,” says Furlong. Pursuing your passion at Portage Northern can mean different things for different sports, the key to remaining healthy while doing so is to only push as far as you feel comfortable. Regardless of the pressure you may feel from your teammates, coaches, or even parents--overall health and well being should always come first in your life.

12 SPORTS

September 30, 2016

photo caption: with the coaches help, wrestlers push themselves while competing in matches..

photo credit: michelle bloomberg and mLive

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FALL SPORTS PREVIEW A LOOK INTO OUR FALL SPORTS TEAMS THIS YEAR

carter landis sports editor

Football

The Huskie varsity football team has a winning record of 3-2, a large portion of that success deriving from the phenomenal play of senior running back Joe Brown. Brown has been an unstoppable force this season, piling up 918 rushing yards and 15 rushing touchdowns in just five games, both good for 2nd in the entire state of Michigan. To Brown, this success is not exactly surprising. “I knew that I could do it with the help of my O-Line and hard work,” he says. Brown really looks up to Vikings running back Adrian Peterson, and it’s shown in the way he plays, breaking lots tackles and freeing himself up for big runs. he’s been contacted by some division 2 colleges. Brown declined to comment on what to expect from him Friday vs Stevensville-Lakeshore, saying, “(The PN fans) will just have to wait and find out.” Brown hopes to be playing football in college next year, and the way he’s played this season, that should be an inevitability.

Che Cheerle er adin g

Cheerleading may not earn the same respect as football or baseball, but that doesn’t mean it’s any less of a sport, or the cheerleaders don’t work just as hard as the other athletes. The cheerleaders are at every game providing energy, effort, and a winning attitude trying to push the Huskies to a victory. For those who don’t think cheerleading is very tough, Halle Escher (10), a varsity cheerleader, says, “If you think it’s so easy, why don’t you try it? It’s harder than you think it is, you have to throw people in the air and catch them. You also have to do lots of tumbling.” Back Handsprings and lots of flips are tough, and Escher believes it might be just as tough as football. “Instead of throwing a one pound football, we throw a one hundred pound person.” Escher also says she’d love to cheer in college, if given the opportunity. “I would push myself to the limits and work harder every day.” Just because cheerleading isn’t as popular as football, doesn’t mean it should be any less respected.

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INTRO TO FALL SPORTS AT PORTAGE NORTHERN Even if students dread coming back to school, they can look forward to the fall sports that Portage Northern has to offer. Student athletes work countless hours making themselves the best they can be. The choices are vast when it comes to which sport to attend, with 9 in total. Sporting events are a great time to cheer on the Huskies and hang out with friends. A Huskie win is the best way to issue in the new school year!

Volleyball

Huskie varsity volleyball is off to a rocky start at a 5-16-1 record, but that doesn’t translate to the play of Corinne McCarthy (11). McCarthy has played some stellar ball for the Huskies, including performing well in a big win against St Joe. “I typically play better when everybody around me is playing well,” says McCarthy, “it’s a team sport.” If the Huskies want to right the ship this season, McCarthy will be a big part of turning it around. “I need to make sure I’m everywhere I need to be, I play in the middle, so I have to be all over the floor.” Don’t be surprised when the ladies of the volleyball team start to Kayl piece everything together and ee P eter son finish a formidable season.

ing m im The women’s swim

team is off to an amazing start this season. With winning by blowouts against Allegan, Loy Norrix and Mattawan. They earned second place of 8 teams at the Allegan invite and the Sophomores took first in their division. Alyssa Riker (10) has earned 3 state cuts so far this season in the 100 butterfly, 200 freestyle and the 500 freestyle. “Honestly, swimming has always been a passion of mine even though any swimmer can confirm it’s such a love/hate relationship. I’m really excited for the rest of this season, mostly because I feel like we just have such a great group of girls this year and we all just click really well in and out of the pool. I can’t wait to see everything our new coach Jim Long will accomplish this year and how well we will do at the SMAC championship meet this year!” said Kim White (11).

September 30, 2016

SPORTS

FALL SPORTS PREVIEW T E N N I S

“

Sports

“

Fall sports is always an exciting time as we all come back to school and the teams help to set the tone for the year. We have several teams and individuals doing well this fall and being recognized by not only local media, but statewide as well. I wish the teams the best of luck in the remainder of their seasons. GO Huskies! -Athletic Director Chris Riker

staff writer

The Portage Northern men’s varsity tennis team is playing their best games of the season, currently sitting at a 6-2-1 record headlined by Jon Leasure (11). The team’s best win comes against Mattawan, with the Huskies winning it 6-2. Leasure’s personal best game was actually a loss, he says,, where he lost to Gull Lake, tallying scores of 4-6, 6-4, 6-7 (3-7). Leasure says hearing his name on the announcements doesn’t mean as much as winning big on the court. “It’s pretty cool, but I just want to go to States. The Greater Kalamazoo tournament doesn’t really matter,” he says. Leasure can’t say for certain where he’ll be by season’s end, but he can promise that he will be at States. “By the end of the year, I will be a more consistent player.” he says. The tennis team is having a stellar year, and it looks like they’ll keep that pace up for the rest of the season.

The cross country team is off to a great start this year. Many students have finished in the top 10 every meet giving them a good advantage in placing high as a team. Multiple kids have already gotten PR’s (personal records) and SR’s (season records) this season. Peyton Witt (10) grabbed an outstanding 24th place in the 5,000 meters at the Spartan Invitational with a time of 19:05. “I am excited to see how our girls varsity team does at regionals! If we put everything together we have a good chance of going to states as a team for the second year in a row,” said Witt.

G O L F

Super Fans

lexi doll

X C

The superfans are SUPER excited about this season. Kaitlin Riker (12) said, “being a superfan is something I’ve looked forward to since middle school when I came to the football games, and it’s surreal that it’s my senior year and I finally get this opportunity. I love going and supporting any sport in our school and it’s so fun to lead our student section with all of my friends. I love to see how many people come out and support our sports teams and I hope the pride in our school continues on to all of the superfans to come.” The superfans are pumped for the season and they want as many people at all sporting events to help support our school. The Super Fans themes for the rest of the season are: white out, spirit wear, black out, USA, neon, orange out, TBD, and pink out.

These lady huskies are ready to smash their competition this season. The season isn’t going exactly how the ladies planned, with them continuously coming in second. “We are so close but so far from winning and it frustrates the team but we are proud of ourselves anyways. I feel like we have a good chance of making it into states this year,” said Grace Beam (11).

The varsity men’s soccer team has really put themselves on the map this season. The men have pulled out some outstanding wins so far and people are surely expecting some more. “I’m looking forward to playing with my brother for his last year,” said Trent Wojcik (10) about older brother Travis Wojcik (12). Earlier in the season the Freshman Levi Crooks impressed the crowd with his spectacular goal against St. Joseph. We ended up winning the game 5-0. Our star goalkeeper Hasten Biddlecome was nominated on Mlive.com for, Which Kalamazoo area goalkeeper would you want in net for a deciding penalty kick?

14 SPORTS

September 30, 2016

S O C C E R portagenorthernlight.com

Kanye’s Vision: Yeezy Season 4

Kanye kicks off NYFW with the fourth installment in his fashion collection issra said (11) salvador delvecchio (10) staff writers

Season 4 of recording artist Kanye West’s label, Yeezy, is officially underway. West along with his affiliate, Adidas, revealed several new Yeezy shoes and his upcoming clothing line on day one of New York Fashion Week. Kanye initially brought viral attention to his collection when he posted his casting call for ‘multi-racial models’ on Twitter to walk in the launch. “I think the casting call was something very Kanye-esque because it was controversial,” said Drayke Simpkins (12). Like many of West’s creative moves, the casting call was surrounded by dispute. Countless twitter users believed he was specifically looking for light-skin models to fit a certain aesthetic, instead of multi-racial women as an entirety. However, the show turned out to consist of a mix of women of color models from numerous origins, in-

cluding stars like Teyana Taylor and Chanel Iman. “If anything it’s pulling for more diversity. All these [models] are going to look different, which I think is a beautiful thing,” said Simpkins. West created a military inspired womenswear range in the nude color family for Season 4. The collection consisted of outerwear, fitted dresses, jewelry, and a new line of footwear. “Season 4 is definitely better than his previous season and I feel like he got back some of his creativity,” said Hamilton Highhouse (12). Past seasons mimic the current collection, but compromise of less refined ideas. Yeezy’s clothing and accessories are not only highly recognized by the affluent groups of society, but also by everyday people. “His

Movie Review: Sully mackenzie brey (11) staff writer Though the use of the quiet but heroic underdog is overdone in movies starring Tom Hanks such as Captain Phillips (2013), Forest Gump (1994) and nearly every other movie he has ever made, he does the type well and without reservation. This dependability is one of the factors that allowed him to bring the person of Captain Chelsey Sullenburger to vivid life in Clint Eastwood’s dramatic biopic Sully (2016). The film, released in early September, flies us through the true emotional and legal journey of Sullenberger’s famous “Miracle on the Hudson,” when he willingly landed flight 1549 into the Hudson River on January 15, 2009. His efforts were unprecedented and

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by the smallest sliver of chance in the world, he successfully landed the plane and saved all 155 lives on board. Afterwards, he faced a little-reported upward legal battle with the airline and the TSA, being forced to prove that his efforts weren’t endangering the lives of the people on board and that there truly were no other options for landing the plane. All aspects of this ordeal are dramatized over the 95 minute course of the movie. Even with the emotional storyline, the movie itself lacks real organization with its’ cuts between nightmares, hallucinations, the past, and the present. But the vivid angles on the crash and the flawless emotion and undeniable talent of Tom Hanks and supporting actor Aaron Eckhart (who plays co-pilot Jeff Skiles) really give the film its real quality. This is a movie I would definitely recommend seeing.

shoes are very admired in the sneakerhead community because of how different they are from the variety of styles in the shoe world,” said Will Otieno (12). However, many cannot even begin to afford anything Yeezy. “The prices are way out of my price range; therefore, chances are low that I’ll ever own anything,” said Simpkins. Kanye’s vision is the main factor of his success: he inspires youth to be whoever they want to be. “He knows how easy it is to conform to society and that’s what he conveys not to do,” said Simpkins. He consistently exemplifies to be unapologetically you and not to let others’ opinions affect your lifestyle. In response to negative critic reviews, Kanye said,“I tried to listen to all the reports and s*** and I tried my best to stop trying. But I just couldn’t it do it, I couldn’t stop.”

Yeezy Season 4 Fast Facts:

•Kanye plans on opening over fifty ‘Yeezy’ stores nationwide

•The show began more than an

hour and a half behind schedule

•A model fainted from the in-

tense heat

•Fashion consultant Tim Gunn

called out Yeezy Season 4 for being ‘basic’

•Teyana Taylor and Chanel Iman

closed the show

September 30, 2016 ENTERTAINMENT

Despite being divided as a nation, PNHS students came together for 2016’s “Road Trip” themed Home- the coming celebration. Counterclockwise from left: Principal French looks on as the sophomores push sta ff their Jeep to a third place finish; Colin Morris participates in the pie eating contest for the sophomore class; freshman and sophomore students at the homecoming assembly use teamwork, agility, and silliness to compete in the new Hungry, Hungry Hippos game; Students Marina Uchai, Dorah Stephen, and Carleah Johnson wear African print shirts for Twin Day; the cheer team performs an exciting routine for the students at the pep assembly; the football team charges onto the field for the big game bearing PNHS and American flags; Junior class homecoming representatives Demi Jensen, Gavin Vinstra, Bailey Neal, Grant Ernst, Sooin Choi, Will Todd, and Lily Antor (missing: Quinlan Lewis) share a moment before finding out the winner; Homecoming King and Queen Wes Hyames and Stephanie Scafaria bask in their special post-crowning moment. Photo Credit: Cameron Schaefer, Lindsay Hall, Kaitlin Riker

Taking the Homecoming Highway