Volume 64 issue 2 december 2014 by FHSBlazer

THE

BLAZER FLUSHING HIGH SCHOOLS INDEPENDENT VOICE

A&E:Mockingjay Review

Athlete of the Month: Rebecca Bade VOLUME: 64 ISSUE 2

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DECEMBER 2014

11/24/2014 1:15:30 PM

8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 16. 18. 19. 20. 21. 22. 23. 25. 26. 27. 28. 29. 31. 32. 33.

Republicans Take Congress Just a Thought Flushing needs a Demonym; Should Students have Jobs? Crossfire Suicide Awareness Students Stuck in Traffic Your â&#x20AC;&#x153;Bruhâ&#x20AC;? is Showing; Weird History Students Getting Involved Teacher Profile Where are they now? Q&A Tea Time with Maddison Athlete of the Month North Parking Lot Christmas in Flushing Seriously Strange Ink at Flushing High Interstellar; Nightcrawler Review Mockingjay Review FIA Video Games Exhibit Christmas Interviews Autumn and Winter Playlist; Comic Strip Football; Cross Country Volleyball; Swim Redskins Name Controversy

Corrections

ur sincerest apologies to McCayla Wallace for claiming that her favorite color was meridian. It is veridian. We also wanted to make it known that James Napier wrote the article about Michigan and Michigan State basketball. Lastly, the Quiz Bowl team has been to nationals twice now.

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Crissy Mendoza Phoenix Prevett Andrew Roth Ben Wright Tori Young James Napier Chloe Peter Jeff Betz Andie Boulton Kaylee Cornell Malyq Catron Myles Siglin Aliya Jehnsen Kay Kostoff Izzy Dubbin Maddison Nelson Amber Patterson Lindsey Coenen Morgan Keeler Emily Beutler Ethan Heyworth Hannah Miners Courtni Jones Rachel Henneke Ethan Dupuis Emily Peterson David McGregor

Editor-in-Chief Copy Editor Advertising Manager News Editor Features Editor Sports Editor Opinions Editor People Editor Arts/Entertainment Editor Photography Editor Business Operations Information Editor Contributor Contributor Contributor Contributor Contributor Contributor Contributor Contributor Contributor Contributor Contributor Contributor Contributor Contributor Advisor

Feel free to contact any member of The Blazer if you have questions or comments. We are located in room 100 during 5th hour.

The Blazer Flushing High School 5039 Deland Road Flushing, MI 48433 (810) 591- 3826 david.mcgregor@flushingschools.org

4. 5. 6. 7.

Staff

Contents Interview with Senator Ananich

Letters to the editor are encourages. names will be withheld on request, but unsigned letters will not be printed. Letters may be edited for spelling and obscenities.

DECEMBER 2014 the BLAZER

CONTENTS

11/25/2014 1:11:38 PM

Blazer editorial policy

he Blazer strives to achieve the highest standards of journalism. It is our goal to inform, to persuade, and to entertain our readers and to provide a forum for the exchange of ideas. We will provide balanced and fair reporting of topics of interest to our readers and commnity. Libel, invasion of privacy and disruption of the educational process will be avoided. The Blazer will not disparage any individual or group and will seek to treat all people fairly. The Staff Editorial is the opinion of the Editorial Board of The Blazer. It is not necessarily the opinion of the faculty, administration or student body of Flushing High School or Flushing Community Schools. The Blazer is proudly affiliated with the Michigan Interscholastic Press Association (MIPA) and Quill and Scroll, the International Honorary Society for High School Journalists.

Cover picture

he roads are slick and the tree tops are painted a pure white. People are hustling to stores to buy winter jackets, snow boots, and shovels because the cold season has arrived much earlier than what was expected. Flushing recieved a few inches of snow but everyone is preparing for the worst because the predictions for this year are not looking good.

CONTENTS

Letter from the Editor indd.indd 1

Letter from the editor

t’s 6:15 AM and there is that annoying, nagging sound that we all hear in the morning; the alarm clock. Every single day, after I turn it off, I lay there and have an internal debate with myself on whether I should get up right then or wait another half hour and snuggle up with Kevin...my dog. Almost every single day, I let myself indulge in those few extra moments of complete bliss being warm and cozy underneath the comforter. Why would I want to be worrying about the tests I have, and what speeches I have to prepare for when I could be worrying about tonight’s episode of MasterChef? When I’m lying in bed, I don’t have to think about all of the college applications and scholarship forms I still have to fill out. Thoughts of pop quizzes and essays are nowhere to be found. In their place are different scenarios of a dream life that I have created for myself. When I’m lying in bed, the responsibilities of numerous leadership roles are left at the door, ready and waiting for me when I make that 15 minute drive to school. When I’m lying in bed, I feel almost as if I’m a child again afraid of the boogeyman, except instead of hiding underneath the covers from monsters, it’s the pressures of high school that are waiting to attack. Before the covers are thrown off and the lights come on, my room is my sanctuary. It’s my safe haven; my fantasy world. It’s a world where trigonometry comes easily to me and I don’t have to get up and speak in front of my class for 9-13 minutes. The clubs and organizations that I run don’t interfere with the little time I have left with my friends before we part ways. In my room, I control what happens to me. In my room, it’s a perfect world. Despite what many people think, senior year is not supposed to be a breeze. It is not meant to be a “blow-off ” year. It’s the year that you have to actually think about your future. I’m not talking about doing the EDPs where you rush through the aptitude test in under five minutes because you just want to be done with it. I’m talking about choosing what you really want to do for the rest of your life. For many people, myself included, it’s scary. We are being thrust out of our comfort zones and forced to think of the future as a whole and not just some big test coming up next week. When I’m lying in bed, I’m just a girl in old sweatpants and an oversized t-shirt. When I’m lying in bed, I’m a niece, little sister, and, in my dreams, a superstar. The moment my feet walk touch the ground, I’m the Blazer editor-in-chief, yearbook editor-in-chief, and student council president. I’m a student, a peer, and a friend. I am a high schooler. Sincerely, Crissy Mendoza

DECEMBER 2014 the BLAZER

11/25/2014 12:52:26 PM

Interview with State Senator Jim Ananich By: Ben Wright

he Michigan legislature is a site of non - stop wage forty cents every year until 2018.The current action. Voting, debating, and speeches are minimum wage, which went into effect on Sepdaily activities for a Michigan Senator or Represen- tember 1st, is $8.15. Sen. Ananich sponsored the tative. Senator Jim Ananich knows these activities law, and is happy but hopes one day it will reach best. I recently sat down with Michigan Senate $10.10. Minority Leader - elect, Jim Ananich, about issues We then talked about issues he believed concerning the state of Michigan, how he got inDemocrats and Republicans could find common volved in politics, the plan for the new legislature, ground on. “I believe the road bill shows bipartiand if he has any future plans for higher elected sanship, we had 10 Democrats and 13 Republicans office. vote for it.” Senator Ananich also said he feels they Getting started in politics is not an easy can reach common ground on offering opportunitask. Sen. Jim Ananich got started at a young age ties for lower wage earners and finding ways to fix and has been very successthe economy. ful in doing so. He became The 6th District involved during college Court of Appeals ruling has and liked it. After college, been in the news lately. I he went to work in former asked Senator Ananich on congressman Dale Kildee’s his opinion of the ruling, “I office. In 2004, he became am in support of marriage a member of the Flint City equality and the government Councilmen for 4 years and shouldn’t sanction discrimiwas elected by the council “I have said publicly and in pri- nation.” to be the council President. The Democrats are the mivate meetings, if I can meet with In 2011 he was elected nority in both the Michigan state representative from Senate and Michigan House. you, I can work with you.” the 26th District. In 2013, I asked Senator Ananich he was elected in a special election to become the about how Michigan Democrats plan to work with state senator from the 27th District. Republican leadership to pass Democratic sup We then moved into legislative issues. ported legislation. “It would be a good gesture if The first issue, which all Michigan drivers are they (Republicans) would be willing to take up our concerned about, are the roads. Senator Ananich bills whether it is something related to our district agrees with Michiganders saying,“The roads are or something we had been had been fighting for, terrible, we have to find a way to fix them”. He when it is something non - controversial.” recently voted for the road bill which will increase Legislative leaders are looked at as potential the sales tax on gas, which will go towards fixing candidates for higher office. I asked Senator Ananthe roads. ich if he was interested in running for higher office, “The minimum wage used to be a starter “I learned a long time ago to do the job you have, wage, now it is a family income.” The newly enact- and if a door opens you have to consider walking ed Michigan minimum wage law, which increases through.” the minimum wage to $9.25 by 2018, was passed I would like to thank Senator Ananich for with bipartisan support. It increases the minimum coming in and sitting down for an interview.

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DECEMBER 2014 the BLAZER

NEWS

11/25/2014 12:36:36 PM

REPUBLICANS TAKE THE CONGRESS BY: BEN WRIGHT

n November 4th, 2014 the Republican party picked - up seven seats for a majority in the United States Senate. They also expanded their control of the House of Representatives by picking up a net gain of 13 seats, the largest majority since World War II. Bipartisanship is essential for the success of the America and to avoid the gridlock that Congress has experienced recently. The current Democratic Senate Majority Leader, Harry Reid, and President Obama have said themselves and their fellow Democratic legislators will work with Republicans to avoid gridlock. The Republicans have promised to pass the Keystone Pipeline, pass immigration reform, work to fix Obamacare, and reform the tax code. All three were big issues that their candidates ran on. Congress are very unlikely to do an all out repeal of Obamacare, even though they had promised to, since President Obama is still in office and Republicans don’t control two - thirds of either chamber to overturn the veto. They are more likely to repeal the Medical Device Tax since it has bipartisan support. The Likely Republican Senate Majority Leader, Mitch McConnell, has also promised to fix the way the Senate is ran becuase current Democratic Senate Majority Leader, Harry Reid, has refused to bring forward 350 bills, that were passed in the Republican controlled House, to the Senate floor for a vote. A vote on the Keystone passed in the House, but failed in the Senate by one vote. Republicans have said they will bring it up again when the 114th Congress. Senator Mary Landieru (D-LA) brought up the Keystone Pipeline vote as a potential lifesaver for her struggling re- election campagin. In the House, her oppoent, Represanitive Bill Cassidy (R-LA), brought up a vote which passed. In Louisiana, if no candidate gets more than 50%, which no one did, the election heads to a run - off on December 6th. Represantitve Cassidy

NEWS

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has been leading in the polls and is favored to win. Another hot button topic is immigration reform. Republican Speaker of the House John Boehner and Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell have vowed to act on immigration, as long as President Obama does not issue any executive orders. President Obama has said he will execute executive action, which has riled up Republicans. Some Republicans have talked about suing the President if he does issue executive orders. Some extreme right wingers have even spoken of impeachment, which is highly unlikely. President Obama’s plan will give four million illgeal immigrants amnesty., while the Republicans want to block amnesty and secure the border. The midterm election, from early on, was expected to be a Republican landslide due to the unpopularity of President Obama and the expected low turnout of Democrats. History has shown that the midterms are usually won by the opposite party of the one in the White House. In the 2014 election, history repeated itself. The Republicans picked up eight seats in the United States on November 4th. The Senate, when the 114th Congress goes into session, will have fifty-three Republicans and forty-three Democrats, with Louisana’s Senate seat to be decdied on December 6th. There are also two Independents who will caucus with the Democrats. The House will have one hundred and eighty-one Democrats and two hundred and forty - three Republicans, with three seats either going to a run - off or a recount. It never works well with a Republican congress and a Democratic White House. We can be optimistic that hopefully the two opposing forces will compromise. Republicans have their ideas for our country, and the Democrats have theirs. From January 3rd, 2015 until January 20th, 2017, we will see if they will find common ground and pass laws for the betterment of the American people.

DECEMBER 2014 the BLAZER

5. 11/24/2014 1:13:48 PM

Just a Thought... By Chloe Peter

Dear Flushing, Allow me to transport you back to last December. I was functioning on five hours of sleep, had a thumping headache, and was fighting a cold that sent me through a large pack of Ricolas in a week. While I would usually stay home under such circumstances, there I was at school at 10:30 p.m. trying to silently navigate my way through the darkened theater with my full sized cello, trying to my get to place in time to join the rest of the orchestra to play “Caribbean Carol” by memory. When I get home, instead of diving into bed like I long to do, a mountain of ISL homework awaits. And forget “Don we now our gay apparel!”, as the choir sang, I’ve donned a wretchedly hot and heavy black dress straight from a Victorian era funeral for the occasion. In that moment, I was at my worst, but also at my best; it was Collage. For those of you who don’t know, Collage is FHS’s annual Christmas concert. All of the choirs, bands, and orchestras collaborate in six total performances over three days and preparations begin weeks prior. It is our only concert of the year that costs money, and let me assure you that admission is worth every penny, as displayed by the sold out shows. And when I say shows sell out, I don’t mean grandparents come, I mean grandparents need to call a week ahead to ensure seats because people with no relation to the students come year after year. Despite the headache and homework weigh-

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On Dedication and Collage

ing on my mind, I wouldn’t trade those performances for anything in the world and I believe the other three hundred or so other students involved agree. And with that, darling readers, I leave you with two important morals to think on. First, do what you love and don’t let anything stop you, not a cold, not a pile of homework, and I beg of you, don’t blow things off because of a to-cool-tobe-excited-and-don’t-want-to embarrass-myself attitude. That being said, make sure you are passionate about what you do. Would you play soccer with a sprained ankle? Would you sing through laryngitis? Would you play Minecraft even though you’ve gone cross-eyed from the dizzying pixels? Would you gladly sweat through your orchestra uniform/widow’s weeds, as I did? If the answer isn’t a wholehearted yes to those things, then don’t do it. My second, far more important moral is… go to Collage Concert! The evening shows are December 16th and 17th at six and eight p.m. and we give abbreviated versions for the students on the 18th. Now, I know most my classmates will shake my recommendations off and wait until the shortened show and attend for free, but may I remind you, the student show has not been given in two years due to snow days. Happy Holidays,

Chloe

DECEMBER 2014 the BLAZER

OPINIONS

11/20/2014 4:00:33 PM

People of Flushing Need Demonym By Chloe Peter

owns going by the name of Flushing go back to the 600s AD with a Dutch fishing village and have been carried on in England, New York, and more relevant to us, in mid-Michigan. The respective Flushings have each uniquely contributed to history in several ways from the Dutch East India Company’s harbor, Admiral Nelson of the British Navy, F. Scott Fitzgerald, and The Blazer, but none of the towns have given its inhabitants a name. Demonyms are titles indicating the people of a specific area such as Bostonians from Boston, Yukoners from Yukon, or Kiwis form New Zealand. Sure, the people of Flushing could go by the Raiders, but that feels exclusive to the schools and frankly, no one’s quite sure what a raider is. Some kind of bird, but is it real or totally fictional? And what do raiders raid? But I digress. We at The Blazer propose Flushingites, Flushees, Flushers, Flushkees, and Flushisians. Maybe little kids could be Flushkins or Flushlings. A town is nothing without its inhabitants, so it seems we should find a way to recognize them and bind us in mutual Flushinghood. Readers, here is your challenge from The Blazer this issue: think of a demonym for Flushing and send it in to us along with other feedback. Maybe the name will catch on and you can be a part of history.

Should students have jobs?

By Emily Beutler

igh school students are busy with school, I get it. Being a high school student myself, I have to schedule my life around school, homework, sports, extracurricular activities, and a job. Jobs are an important factor in everyone’s life. You go to school and college to have a career but employers like to see that future employees have job experience. Teenage years are a good time to get the job experience, fast food places, retail, and restaurants are all examples of places that teenagers can work. Students need to be preparing themselves for college as well as the real world. Students need to start saving their money as soon as they can so they can afford a car and gas. Also so that they can have money to pay for college and not have to start out in the real world with a bunch of student loans and college debt. Senior Ashley Risinger thinks “Students should not have jobs because they should be focusing on their grades so that they can get into college.” Many students and parents have that type of mindset that they should be focusing on school. Some students believe that they don’t need a job and should focus on school and sports while we can since we will have our whole lives to work. Other people believe that students should get the experience and should know what the workforce is like. Some like to be involved in school and focus on getting good grades while others just go to school to learn and then have a ton of free time when they get home. Why not fill that free time making money? It seems as if teenagers like the thought of making money but no one really wants to take the time and energy to actually work. It’s hard when you have a test coming up but you have to work all night the night before. Having a job while in high school can be stressful but it helps prepare you for the real world.

OPINIONS

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DECEMBER 2014 the BLAZER

11/20/2014 4:33:48 PM

CROSSFIRE

Is Today’s Social Media a Good Thing for Teens

I love being able to go on my phone and check my Snapchat, Facebook, and Instagram, etc., but these things can cause so many by Ethan Heyworth problems, more than they’re worth at least. I have seen plenty Twitof cases about cyberbullying, almost all involving one of ter, these social media networks. If you go into any school, and ask if anyone has ever Tumblr, been bullied over the internet, I can almost guarantee that more than 10 people Instagram, will say yes and can prove their statement. Nearly 43% of kids have been bulthose are just lied online. 1 in 4 has had it happen more than once.These statistics were a few of the social provided by www.dosomethine.org. media websites avail I see it on Facebook and Twitter all the time. What is the able to us. Social media is point of having an account if all it is going to do is bring you a nice things for teens to have down and constantly make you question what the point of because it makes it easy to connect life is? In addition, there are plenty of dangers on the to things they find interesting. For internet. A common one is predators, people who example, on Tumblr, if you search the tag prey on the young and helpless. People are always Spider-Man, posts dealing with Spider-Man being watched on the internet, and they never come up for you to see. This also makes it easy to know who is watching. If you want more find other people with the same interests. Twitter is detail about cyber predators go to www. convenient to send a cute tweet to your friends, like on internetsafety101.org. You can also their birthday. Facebook is nice because it reminds you that find ways to protect yourself on it’s your friend’s birthday. Some social media is helpful, like a this site and I suggest taking website called Trello. Trello lets a group of people stay organized, advantage of tis site. For communicate with each other, and keep track of deadlines. The Blazer more on cyberbullying staff uses Trello to stay organized. Although some social media is rather and how to prevent pointless, it is nice to find things that interest you, and keep in touch with it, go to stopcyfriends. There is a negative to social media, cyberbullying, but it is an easy thing berbullying. to fix. On all sites you can report people for their nastiness, resulting in said person gov. being suspended from using the website for a period of time. Another easy fix is the

magical block button. If you go to the bully’s profile you can find a block button, with one click that person is not a problem to you anymore. A last easy fix is, just ignore the person, as Taylor Swift once said, “There are two ways you can by Maddie Nelson go with pain: You can let it destroy you or you can use it as fuel to drive you.”

Yes

• 60% of students agree • Most people said social media isn’t a problem, but the amount of it is • One student worried that if social media goes unchecked, “Some people might stop talking face to face.”

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Yes

• 40% of students agree • “I live on social media!” exclaimed a sophomore • Though wary of social media, Ms. Misura said “If we educate teens on how to be respectful on the internet, then it can be beneficial.”

DECEMBER 2014 the BLAZER

OPINIONS

11/20/2014 3:48:22 PM

Suicide Awareness For Our Youth By: The Blazer Staff

Suicide is nothing anyone wants to talk about. But with this day and age, it is something that we have to discuss, and educate ourselves about. Ourselves as a school have delt with this issue mutiple times over the past few years, and it is one of the most painful expieriences to deal with. We as a staff will educate you, inform you of the severity, and give you some of our views on the issue. The Webster dictionary defines “Suicide” who have suicidal thoughts are capable of noticing as “the act or an instance of taking one’s own life when something is wrong. After all, when you’re voluntarily and intentionally especially by a per- angry or sad, you know it don’t you? Depressed son of years of discretion and of sound mind”. We people young or old can seek attention, support, all know what it means to us. Someone takes their and help. They can talk to a peer, a parent, a trustown life, normally it is out of sadness or hope- ed teacher. There are outlets. You can call the Suilessness. Suicide means we lose someone we love, cide Hotline at 1-800-273-8255. If you yourself someone we care for. It means that they just ended as a student have thought about ending your life, all possibility of things getting better. or know someone who has, stop and think. Talk Several people have mixed opinions of sui- to someone and tell them how you’re feeling. If cide. A lot of people we asked said it was selfish, someone threatens to take thier life, take it serior very easily preventable. Others said that they ously. You can be better, and you can improve. understand it, and can see how someone can be Stay strong, keep fighting, and remember even in that much pain, and undestand what it is like your first days only last 24 hours. to deal with depression. They also know that deep down, all they really want is help, to rid of the longing sadness. The response when the topic was even presented was very heavy. It saddend people, made them uncomfortable. It is definatly a horrible topic to talk about. Some people however take it to a whole new level, without the realization that they’re doing it. When your freind makes you angry, what do you say? It could be something like, “I hate you” or “You’re ridiculous”. One of the most common phrases we hear in this case is something like, “go kill yourself ” or “jump off a bridge”. This may seem to you as a harmless joke, but it is definatly not funny . The person you say this to could have something going on. You don’t know what goes on at home, between passing time. The jokes Drawing by Tori Young are partially why suicide is overlooked in today’s society. Suicide is definatly preventable. People

OPINIONS

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DECEMBER 2014 the BLAZER

9. 11/24/2014 1:12:45 PM

Students Stuck in Traffic By Hannah Miners

f you go to Flushing High School, you know that they can just cut right in front of me. I have talked in the hallway in front of room 301 (Mrs. Mi- with a few people to come up with a solution.We arka’s French classroom) at The Blazer think it would there is a huge traffic be a great idea to open up the jam between every hour. courtyard doors so people can These jams irritate many cut through instead of getting people, and I believe that caught in the mess. our whole school should We want your input. If work together to fix you have any good ideas, or them. agree with us, you can Sophemail us omore, at fhsblazBen er@gmail. Wright com , but states “It for now, try causes your best a lot of to stay out tardies, of that conand gested hallslows way. down the whole Photo by Kaylee Cornell school.” Some teachers in our building are very strict on being on time, but its not always easy to be in your seat exactly when the bell rings because of how packed the hallways can be. I also interviewed two freshmen who have spoken their minds. Lexie Roberts said that she gets stuck in the traffic after sixth hour and she stated “It makes me feel like tuna in an ocean full of sharks.” Sarah Mcfadden, another freshman, commented “It makes me feel small, like nobody cares, and I’m not very happy about it.” As students, we need to realize that we’re all in the same boat, and are all trying to leave at once, so need to be more patient with each other. I’m very experienced being stuck in the crowd, and I think that there are too many people who don’t watch where they’re going. I am a five foot sophomore and because of that, people think that

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“It makes me feel like tuna in an ocean full of sharks”- Lexie Roberts

DECEMBER 2014 the BLAZER

OPINIONS 11/25/2014 1:18:28 PM

Your “Bruh” is Showing By: Myles Siglin

Some may say that it is only slang, or a matter of young people’s dialect. This may be the case, but am what one may call, a Grammar Nazi, but if I look at what other things began in do not know you, I will probably leave you alone. with America’s youth: Selfies, baggy One word, however, must be corrected at all costs: pants, and backwards hats all start“Bruh”. We have all heard it, whether we like it or ed with the young people and reflect not. I, for one, despise it both in use and simple badly not only on us as teenagers, but it also resound. Its origin is in the term flects the downfall of American “Bro”, which in turn has its ori- “No person ever should be culture. We all need to worry, as gin in brother. While no one can compared to the noises of the degeneration of our language deny the good intention of calling a close friend a brother, resorting various barnyard animals or reflects the possible ruin of our to a sound made by various ani- a piece of women’s clothing.” culture. When the culture of the Romans fell, their empire fell. mal species is hardly a term of endearment. Who in their right mind would prefer Only by upholding our moral fiber can we bring being called a sound made by a bullfrog over their back the prominence of this once great nation. We own name? The morphing of “bro” doesn’t stop can rebuild America, and we can fight for the right at “bruh”, but continues on into “broseph”, “bro- to be called by one’s name. Together, we can stand mance”, “broski”, and, the target of my innermost against bad grammar, and together, we can work hatred, “brah”. All people have the right to a name, for the good of our culture. Together, we stand, a basis of human rights, an identity. No person but our language will fall if we let it separate from ever should be compared to the noises of various its proud history. Only you can prevent our way barnyard creatures or a piece of women’s cloth- of speaking’s deevolution into guttural utterances. ing. Please, keep your mind out of the gutterances.

Weird History with Myles Siglin

ships and planes, but they maintain standard reasons. Or, What I Advocate When You Enter The Devil’s Triangle The USS Cyclops and Flight 19 are believed to be lost magine that you are sitting in a satellite, orbiting the to a storm and an empty fuel tank respectively. ReEarth. You take a photo of the Southeast U.S. and Ca- ports of its mystery reach as far back to Shakespeare’s ribbean. You mark a triangle with corners in Miami, The Tempest, which many believe were founded upon a Florida; San Juan, Puerto Rico; and Bermuda. This is shipwreck in the “Triangle”. The term “Bermuda Trianthe storied area called the “Bermuda Triangle”. Many gle”, however was coined in Vincent Gaddis’s article in have reported that any airplane or boat that enters these the February 1964 issue of the Argosy, according to the boundaries is doomed archives of Southern to wreck. While countMethodist University. less people subscribe to While theories abound, this theory, even among I remain convinced them, there is no conthat all of these mystersensus as to why it hapies can be solved with pens. According to Hisa simple explanaion: tory.com, theories of Active currents, like the the forces leading to the Gulf Stream, a history wrecks of both sea and of bad weather events, air craft include ranlike hurricanes, plus dom weather changes, pilot error all combine magnetic anomalies, a to create a deadly trio, a time vortex, and methfitting combination for ane deposits. The US a most deadly triangle. Courtesy of Google Navy has lost several

OPINIONS

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DECEMBER 2014 the BLAZER

11.

11/24/2014 12:43:54 PM

Everyday Students Getting Involved Q&A By:Ethan Heyworth

Gabby Sheets, Freshman Age: 15

THE

Ben Wright, Sophomore Age: 15 1)What is your overall opinion on getting involved in sports and extra-curricular activities? Ben Wright thinks getting involved is very important. He says it is a good way to make friends and have new experiences. Ben is also part of the ABC (Anti Bullying Club) and getting involved normally makes a person happy due to the friends you make. 2)Do you think getting involved with sports and other activities will affect ones grade? How? Ben believes it can go both ways. If you are getting a lot of homework and are stressed out due to the homework then yes it has potential to hurt you academically. Ben also believes that if you realty love a sport and participating in a sport then it can be motivation to do better. 3)How do you feel when you are part of a group or team? Ben feels proud of himself, because he stepping up and doing what he wants to do in life. Being elected as class president twice in a row makes him feel as if the people (students) have his back and will support him through the next year’s election.

1)What is your overall opinion on getting on getting involved in sports and other thanks all of our generous supporters and readers. We couldn’t do it without you. extra curricular activities? Gabby thinks everyone should get involved in extra curricular activities. She says they give you lots of opportunities to meet new people, but it needs to be something you enjoy. 2) Do you think that getting involved with sports and other activities will effect ones grade? How? Yes, Gabby does. In order to participate in sports you have to keep your grades up. If you participate, it should motivate you to do better in school. Her coaches often say it’s important to be a student before you are an athlete 3) How do you feel when you are part of a group or team? Being part of a group or team is the best thing that you can do. It gives you people you can rely on. It also motivates you to work hard because there are people to motivate you.

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11/25/2014 4:36:19 PM

Teacher Profile By: Phoenix Prevett

rystal Wier was born on July 14th, year of birth undisclosed, at Hurley Medical Center. She grew up in Clio, Michigan and graduated from Clio High School. She attended Saginaw Valley University, and was dual enrolled with Ferris State University, where she graduated with her Master’s of Arts and Secondary Education. She was first inspired to become a teacher by her own high school English teacher, Mr. Fuller, who told her that if she could write, she could do anything. Mrs. Wier has been teaching at FHS for 10 years. She says the most rewarding part of her job is being able to interact with the students, see them understand the material,

and admire their successes. On the other hand, she says the most challenging part of being a teacher is making sure that every student is understanding the material. Mrs. Wier says her biggest accomplishment as a teacher is having students from past years come back to tell her that they were able to use something she taught them in another situation. What she loves most about her students is that they are well behaved, hard working and real. If she weren’t a teacher, Mrs. Wier says she could see herself being a principal, as she would want to have profession that would still allow her to work with children while having new challenges and opportunities.

Fun Facts Family & Pets Husband, Troy, of 11 years. 13 year old daughter, Taylor. 10 year old son, Hudsen. 6 year old son, Kaiser. 19 year old billet and Michigan Warrior, Cody, who lives with the family during hockey season. • Dog named Spike and a guinea pig named Midnight • • • • •

PEOPLE

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Music Food Ice Cream Color Activities

Favorites Country Pizza Strawberry Swirl Purple Relaxing on the beach, attending sporting events, going up to Higgins Lake, and snowmobiling with her husband

DECEMBER 2014 the BLAZER

13. 11/25/2014 1:03:13 PM

FHS Alumni: Where are they now? Ryan Slocum By: Jeff Betz

yan Slocum, a 1998 graduate of Flushing High School, graciously accepted to do an interview about his experiences and what he learned while at Flushing High School and how that impacted him getting his job as a sports broadcaster for ABC 12. Focusing in on his early life and how he came In college Slocum across his career pathway he said that he was most- studied and has a Degree ly inspired by his older brother more so than any- in Broadcasting and a thing or anyone else. He, Slocum’s brother, inspired Bachelor’s Degree in SciSlocum by constantly narrating family vacations, ence. Slocum continued while this got annoying after a while when he start- to say that the hands on ed narrating Slocum’s basketball games and Slocum stuff at college was the realized that he would not play in the NBA or make best, but other than that his living playing basketball. He began “If you want to was mostly to take interest in journalism and more just the hisdo something, specifically, sports casting. Other peotory broadPicture courtesy of ple that inspired him were Rece Davis, do it!” - Ryan Slocum casting and http://www.abc12.com/stowho is currently working for ESPN, and journalism Paul Silvi, who now works for King T.V. in Seattle. did not really help at all ry/14903851/ryan-slocum Flushing did help him to find an outlet and a place with getting his job. Into start his journalism career with The Blazer. He ternships while in college were key. He had internstarted working for The Blazer as a sports columnist ships at both ABC 12 and WZZM in Grand Rapids. his Junior year and continued to work for the news- These internships put his “foot in the door” because paper for the rest for the time he was at FHS. When he was known by the people that worked there and he first started working for the newspaper, he did had already worked for them which made it all the not really know anything about journalism or how more easy to get a job. to write a story. When he first started, he formatted Slocum also had these words of wisdom to his story based on how the other people were for- help wrap things up, “If you want to do something, matting theirs and soon caught on to the concept do it, don’t let people get in your way. Don’t take no and was able to grow and develop from that point for an answer. I mean use common sense with the forward. whole ‘don’t take no for an answer thing’. If you’re Changing the focus to his high school expie- told ‘no’, ask why and when they give you feedback, rences, Slocum said the classes that were hardest for take that with you and learn from it. I’m a perfect him were, “hours 1-6. Naw man, I’m just kidding”. example of this. When I was younger, I had a speech He struggled mostly with both Algebra 1 and 2. He impediment. I could barely talk but I did not let it had the same teacher for both classes, Mr. Haapla. get in my way. I worked as hard as possible to get rid He was one of Slocum’s favorite teachers as he was of it and after about 5 years was able talk normally socialable, funny, and relatable. Slocum simply just and now you would not even notice that I had one. did not understand the material being taught. Don’t let anything get in your way, if you want to do something, do it!”

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DECEMBER 2014 the BLAZER

PEOPLE

11/25/2014 1:08:14 PM

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11/25/2014 3:32:20 PM

“What does the fox say?” 2.

“Is fish a poultry?”

“If everyone has the same relationship goals, why is everybody single?” 4.

“On a scale of 1-10, how cute do you think you look when you sleep?”

“Why did the chicken cross the road?”

“Was America originally occupied by aliens before Columbus came?” 6.

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“Why did dinosaurs exsist?”

“How tall does a giraffe get?”

“Why is the 100 Hallway to crowded at the end of the day?”

DECEMBER 2014 the BLAZER

FEATURES

11/24/2014 12:47:21 PM

1. GIVE ME YOUR CHICKEN. ALL THE CHICKEN. 2. No, it’s seafood. OBVIOUSLY! 3. Because you were HORRIBLY WRONG. -Izzy Dubbin

4. French 10!

6. No, it was occupiedby the hippopotomous people.

7. So you could ask this question.

5. So it could get hit by a car. And then explode.

Tori Young

8. Very.

-Kayla Kostoff

9. REASONS.

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DECEMBER 2014 the BLAZER

17. 11/24/2014 1:01:13 PM

Tea Time With Maddison By: Maddison Nelson

In 1904, tea bags were invented accidentally. Thomas Sullivan, the inventor, thought that it was cheaper to send small samples to prospective customers in silk bags instead of boxes. The customers mistakenly believed they were meant to be dunked into the cup of hot water, and soon Sullivan was overwhelmed with orders for his “tea bags.” Without further ado, the top five teas that can benefit you:

Black Tea: Black tea makes people feel good, it helps reduce stress and anxiety incredibly fast. Drinking black tea after a stressful day is recommended, it helps by relaxing people quicker. This tea helps reduce bad cholesterol, and reduces the risk of heart attacks and strokes. Black tea improves breathing for people with asthma by expanding their airways.

Green Tea: The antioxidants in green tea help build up the immune system, prevent the

Flu, and decrease symptoms of the common cold. Green tea helps people feel healthy and young, but it also keeps you looking young; the antioxidants in this tea slow the signs of aging. It doesn’t stop there, green tea prevents and slows cancer, arthritis, and bad cholesterol. It also lowers stress while boosting brain power. If someone is dehydrated they should drink some green tea; green tea rehydrates better than water.

Oolong Tea: Oolong tea is best known for its weight loss attribute, speeding up the metabolism, burning calories and fat. It not only does it decrease waistlines, it fights things that come with expanding waistlines such as, high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart disease. For people with diabetes, oolong tea helps keep blood sugar levels in line. This wonderful tea is also said to protect skin from sun and smoking damage.

White Tea: Recent science is suggesting that white tea prevents cell damage, stops the

growth of cancer cells, and shrinks cancerous tumors. White tea also keeps cold symptoms at bay, not only that but, white tea fights strep throat. This tea lowers blood pressure and cholesterol, improves artery function, and can increase bone density; lowering risks of developing osteoporosis.

Red Tea: (Also known as rooibos tea.)There has been recent evidence that red tea may

fight skin cancer, it does help skin stay clear from acne, psoriasis, eczema, and some aging. Red tea reduces the discomfort of cramps and gastrointestinal pain, while also helping improve the health status of livers, cardiovascular systems, and teeth. Red tea also provides relief from insomnia, headaches, and asthma. DECEMBER 2014 the BLAZER FEATURES .

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11/24/2014 12:42:39 PM

Athlete of the Month: Rebecca Bade

By: Maddison Nelson

or those of you who know her know, she is a sweet girl who is kind to everyone, but she is not so sweet in the water. Senior Rebecca Bade is a fierce swimmer on the Flushing- Swartz Creek Swim Team. If you have ever watched her swim, you know that she’s good, but you probably wouldn’t have guessed she has only been swimming since her freshmen year, she has improved greatly since freshmen year. Over the past four years, the 200 Freestyle has become her favorite race. Becca also swims the 50 meter, 100 meter, and 500 meter; all freestyle. Recently the swim team had their Metro League swim meet. Becca kicked butt at the meet! Metros is a two day meet, the top sixteen swimmers in each event move onto the final day. Becca finished, not only

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in the top sixteen, but the top ten in all of her events. She placed seventh in her 100 Freestyle, fourth in her 200 Freestyle Relay, third in her 400 Freestyle Relay and her individual 200 Freestyle. Becca said the worst part of the season for her was, “I didn’t like not having a taper week after hell week, especially with Metros so close.” Her favorite part of her senior season was “I loved forming a bond with all of the Creek girls that we combined with this year, they are a great group of girls.” For Becca, being done with swim is bittersweet. While she’s at college next year she will miss her best friend, Shannon Shaughnessy, whom she met through joining swim.

DECEMBER 2014 the BLAZER

19. 11/24/2014 1:21:24 PM

North student parking lot trouble

By Kaylee Cornell

he Flushing High School north student parking lot is something you want to avoid at 2:30 every week day. Parents are picking up their kids and students need to get to their job or just want to go home. The buses are trying to shuttle kids home too. Everyone is trying to get out of there as fast as they can. There are about 300 cars in the north parking lot and about just as many parents picking up their kids. It looks a lot like Detroit rush hour which is bumper to bumper and takes 3 hours to get through. Being a driver myself, I have seen firsthand just how impatient everyone can be. The parents should be the most patient because they are willingly picking up their kids knowing the traffic every day, but that is not always the case. I have never seen a parent cut off a bus or student driver but you can see they are annoyed. Student drivers actually inside the parking lot are rude and inconsiderate most of the time. There is a lot of honking going on and I know some of it is joking but it could be out of just pure frustration. We all

try to go out one way and thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s when people get cut off. I know for a fact that a number of students have stories of when they have been cut off. The buses are the worst when it comes time to the school day ending. Mr. Melynchek has to stand at the crossing and stops students from crossing when a bus is coming. The law states that pedestrians have the right away, not moving vehicles. The upperclassman understand better, but if you exit from the north and stop to let other students exit from the south, the buses will honk at you and yell at you to move. The bus drivers have no respect for any other driver on the road. I grew up learning that when there is traffic, every other car goes. Traffic would be a lot calmer and no one would be considered rude. We all need to be nice and patient when it comes to after school.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;The buses are the worst when it comes time to the school day ending.â&#x20AC;?

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DECEMBER 2014 the BLAZER

FEATURES

11/24/2014 1:27:16 PM

Christmas in Flushing! By: The Blazer Feature Staff

Children

Parents

You could put this under the tree on Christmas! Girls- A stuffed animal of some kind. Most kids, girls especially, would love to snuggle up to a furry friend at night. The older the kid, the larger the animal. Boys- RC helicopter. They can fly them, run them into things, and annoy their parents. It also distracts them from their continuously video games. What could be better! -Kayla Kostoff

You are almost obligated to get your parents something. After all, they did create you. Mom- Get Mom a book. On the rare occasion that she has down time, it could entertain her during the holidat season. Dad-Socks. No one complains about too many socks. After all, that is basically all we get for Christmas from him anyway. -Myles Siglin

Teenager

Grandparents

Here are a couple ideas: Girls- After asking a few teenage girls, the best idea seems to be clothes. But to avoid the hectic chore of finding the right outfit, a gift card to any store would sufice. Boys-Videogames are always a safe bet. While expensive, I am sure any boy would love a game that lets them strategize. -Tori Young

Young Adult Young adults are normally 18-25. Here are some options. Girls- Ladies will appreciate a perfume, lotion, and shower gel set from Bath and Body Works. Boys- For your guy friends, they might enjoy some silly boxers and a new beanie. -Maddison Nelson

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We can’t forget about the old folks! Grandma- Grandmothers seem to be suckers for photos. Family photos. So an idea would be to put together a photo album full of family memories. Grandpa- Elders are always talking about how strange today’s music and technology is. Why not give them both? An ipod/MP3 with their favorite music should sufice. -Amber Patterson

Friends We all have to get a gift for our best friends. It just isn’ t optional. Girls- A giant plushie. That way when they’re lonely on those cold winter nights, they have something to hug. Boys- Food. That is a really great option, because lets face it....men probably like food more than women. -Izzy Dubbin

DECEMBER 2014 the BLAZER

21.

11/20/2014 4:10:04 PM

Seriously Strange: Winter Activities By Kay Kostoff

When common sense retired to the fireplace,others didn’t.

Shovels are the last thing you would expect to see somebody riding on in the winter, which is exactly what some genius with a camera was thinking when this sport was invented. Yes, this is an actual sport. It was actually recognized as a sport by the Olympics until 1999. All you need is your shovel and a hill to get started on the simplest sport ever created. Seriously. You sit on the flat part of your shovel with the handle between your legs, and let gravity do the rest. Adding wax to the bottom of the shovel and icing the hill can definitely make you go faster, but a wipeout at speeds reaching 70 mph sounds pretty painful to me, but do whatever you wish. Your funeral. http://si.wsj.net/public/resources/images Just because the river is frozen doesn’t mean the kayak must retire. This sport is actually very similar to sledding, but instead of a sled a kayak is used and you can steer. No special equipment is necessary, although a helmet is recommended on the off chance you lose control of your kayak and run face first into a tree. Similarly to shovel racing, waxing the bottom will make you go much faster, but it will make your kayak harder to control. http://media.meltyxtrem.fr Have you ever wanted to be a polar bear so badly that you tried to swim with them? If so, this activity is for you. Nieuwjaarsduik is a tradition in Finland where people meet at a beach during New Years and swim in the icy northern waters to celebrate, and Polar Bear Swims are what it’s called all winter long, worldwide. With no wetsuits allowed and the potential risk of hypothermia, Polar Bear Swims are only for the truly brave.

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DECEMBER 2014 the BLAZER

FEATURES

11/24/2014 1:09:21 PM

Ink At Flushing High!

Mrs. Byrski

By: Tori Young

Mrs.Byrski and I talked about her unique foot tattoo. Q:What does your tattoo symbolize? A: Nothing really. I knew I wanted a tattoo, so I flipped through an artist book and picked one I liked. Q: How bad did it your tattoo hurt? A: It was bad. It felt like 45 minutes of 1000 bee stings a minute. Q:Do you plan on anymore tattoos? A: Maybe in the far far future. If I did get one, it would be to symbolize my grandparents. “People with tattoos aren’t rebels. It could be to bring color to your body. It’s a big deal when you get it, but after a while it’s nothing major.” -Mrs.Byrski

Hannah Gossel

We spoke with Freshman Hannah Gossel about her gorgeous heart tattoo. Q:What does your tattoo symbolize? A: I knew I wanted a tattoo, and my friend designed it special for me. I haven’t seen another tattoo like it. Q: How bad did your tattoo hurt? A:On a scale of 1-10? 5. It felt like repeated stabbing. Q:Do you plan on any other tattoos? A: Yes. I plan on getting lyrics on my ribs or thigh. “Tattoos are a beautiful thing. They can show who you really are.” -Hannah Gossel

Mr.Rishmawi

Mr.Rishmawi enlightened us with the story behind the soccer ball on his calf. Q: What does your tattoo symbolize? A: Me. What I am all about, soccer. Q: How bad did your tattoo hurt? A: It didn’t, it tickled. It was like an annoying tickle. Q: Do you plan on anymore tattoos? A: I don’t as of now. Maybe when we are done with our family, I will add my kids’ birthdays around the soccer ball. “I was smart when I picked my tattoo. I made a deal with myself that I would wait until I was older, and I was sure that was what I wanted. Ironically, it was the same thing at 18 as it was at 30.”- Mr.Rishmawi

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DECEMBER 2014 the BLAZER

23.

11/24/2014 12:38:42 PM

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11/25/2014 4:47:48 PM

Blazer Movie Minute Not Going Gently into that Goodnight

10 / 10

Critic Review from Metacritic:

hristopher Nolan has taken us through the complexity of the mind in Memento, through the creativity of the dream in Inception, and through the crime ridden streets of Gotham in the acclaimed Dark Knight trilogy. Now he propels us to the stars, where we witness perhaps the crown jewel of not only his personal collection of achievements, but one of the finest examples of a quality cinematic experience to date. This landmark film tells the story of Cooper, a former NASA test pilot and engineer forced to turn to farming after NASA was shut down. Approached by his former professor, Dr. Brand, he is asked to leave his children, and join a mission that could possibly save mankind from its inevitable doom on the starving earth. Although the plot might seem cliché, there is so much more to it that I can’t reveal without spoilers. But the story would not have reached its monumental heights without its amazing visuals, splendid acting, and the charming dialogue. Not to mention, the amazing score (by Hans Zimmer) and sound mixing that shook my seat in the theater, and embedded me into the film. Perhaps one of the most important qualities of the film however, is that it manages to straddle the line between intelligence, and wholesomeness. It acts as almost comfort food at times with its emotional character relations, but it also makes you think. This revelation has been accomplished in few films before this, including but not limited to “Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind” and “The Talented Mr. Ripley”, but none done nearly as well. Interstellar is a film you simply must pay the money to see in IMAX, don’t be the one who falls behind. By: Ethan Dupuis

Nightcrawler is a Gift You Give Yourself

ere we stand, in front of us is the extremely promising career of director Dan Gilroy, and right beneath our feet is the masterpiece that is Nightcrawler. Gilroy’s directorial debut is a chilling crime thriller that follows anti-hero Louis Bloom, a desperate man who doesn’t know what he wants to do with his life. That is until one fateful night, he happens upon a car accident on the highway, and witnesses freelance journalism first hand when an independent camera crew scrambles to film the aftermath. Following his revelation, we watch his rise in the freelance crime journalism world. Though at times humorous, it is a dark and thrilling road that has captivated audiences across the nation. Jake Gyllenhaal’s performance as Bloom can be summarized as downright creepy, which is perfect for the film. I guarantee a nomination for best actor in a leading role. Also, Rene Russo will likely get the nod as well. To complement the fantastic acting and dialogue, Nightcrawler features some of the best work in cinematography I have ever seen. The sharp style was refreshing, and lent itself nicely to the fast passed plot. Although I cannot credit this as unique, it is done especially well here. Be looking for this film at the Oscars, it will be a top contender. Go see Nightcrawler in theaters before it’s too late.

9 / 10

Critic Reviews from Metacritic:

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By: Ethan Dupuis Disclaimer: Reviews are subject to opinionated views, and by no means represent all staff member’s opinions, even if they should. Read at your own risk. Your mileage may vary.

DECEMBER 2014 the BLAZER

25. 11/21/2014 1:11:20 PM

Blazer Movie Minute I Never Wanted Any of This, I Never Wanted a Two Part Mockingjay.

6.5 / 10

Critic Reviews from Metacritic:

By: Ethan Dupuis

64 Timeline:

6 / 10

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his money grab disguised as a genuine attempt to give fans a true, quality experience, is to say the least, disappointing. It fails to meet the quota set by its predecessor, Catching Fire, however it does not stoop down to lows of the original Hunger Games. Instead it manages to squirm its way somewhere between ‘okay’ and ‘good’. Even the improvements it made upon Catching Fire were quickly put out by its natural flaws. Perhaps most disturbing about the film is the shear waste of talent. Here they stand with talented actors such as Phillip Seymour Hoffman, Woody Harrelson, and Natalie Dormer. Yet they gave them nothing to say worth remembering. Even poor Jennifer Lawrence sounded ridiculous spitting off silly dialogue in one of the most serious scenes. None the less, they finally figured a few things out. It was about time they removed the terrible CGI fire that looked so plainly fake, it is hard to believe that it was developed by professionals. Also, they didn’t completely screw up the ending this time, unlike Catching Fire which was much too choppy. Mockingjay only overextended itself a few minutes, but missed the opportunity to have a truly epic, and ambiguous ending. One of the stronger elements of the film was the decision to empower suspense over action. It took away from the needlessly bloody scenes and brought you more into the film, however you were swiftly and mercilessly thrown out when some pointless character mutters a one liner that should be in a children’s film. But I’m sure that for those who haven’t read the books, it managed to keep you on the edge of your seat, I am not so fortunate. But what the directors, and screenwriters, have seemed to not recognize is the fact that the two minute clips of the actual rebellion are more moving than the rest of the movie. For some reason, those scenes have higher quality direction and cinematography than the rest of the film. They are the scenes that I am truly pulled into, and they’re not caught up in giving Katniss something mildly funny to say. They reinforce the underlying message that it’s not just about us, it’s about everyone. Although Mockingjay is not the best of series, however it certainly isn’t to painful experience. It manages to entertain, but not much more than that. If you are a fan of the series, go ahead and see it in theaters. But try to catch the matinée showing, it’s cheaper and you are less likely to get people around you who can’t seem to shut their gapping pie holes. It’s a win/win situation.

8 / 10

DECEMBER 2014 the BLAZER

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11/25/2014 12:40:50 PM

rtists create art to express feelings, whether itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s through a painting, a sculpture, or even a video game. The Flint Institute of Arts has an exhibition going on now through January 18th showcasing the art of video games. The exhibition takes you through five levels and displays the growth of video games over the 40 years theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been around. The point of this display is to show

the art behind video games and what they have become in our culture. The exhibit was different than most exhibits the FIA has showcased in the past. Instead of just looking at the art, you can interact and actually play the games. It also shows sketches of objects being transformed into the game. The Art of Video Games is definitely a must-see so go check it out before it ends in Janurary! Left: The opening of the exhibit shows the different levels which are advances in the mechanics

Right: Outside of the exhibit are some classic arcade games, like pinball, you can play

Left: The sketch on the far left is being transformed on the right into the actual World of Warcraft video game

By Andie Boulton

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DECEMBER 2014 the BLAZER

27. 11/24/2014 1:23:14 PM

It’s beginning to look a lot like

Christmas

round this time of year, almost everyone is in the holiday spirit by playing their favorite Christmas music and movies. As soon as Halloween is over, people can’t wait to begin these holiday activities, students throughout the school love to voice their opinions on their favorite Christmas movies, music, and traditions

By Andie Boulton

Malia Childress, 10 Favorite Movie: Christmas Shoes Favorite song: All I Want For Christmas Tradition: Gets PJ’s every Christmas Eve

Drake Dunigan, 12

Favorite Movie: The Christmas Story Favorite Song: All I Want for Christmas Tradition: Puts up the Christmas tree with the family

Elise Nasser, 11

Favorite Movie: Elf Favorite song: All I Want for Christmas Tradition: Makes Christmas Cookies

Rachel Costa, 12

Favorite Movie: Home Alone Favorite Song: Cheetahlicious Christmas Tradition: Opens one gift on Christmas Eve

Bethany Skiver, 11

Favorite Movie: Elf Favorite Song: Jingle Bells Tradition: Opens stocking first

Merry Christmas Love, Rachel Costa, Drake Dunigan, Malia Childress, Elise Nasser, & Bethany Skiver

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DECEMBER 2014 the BLAZER

A&E

11/24/2014 1:22:00 PM

By Emily Peterson

ver needed to just sit back and enjoy the seasons slowly transitioning? Well, my friend, you’re in luck! Here, you will find that I’ve made a composed this playlist for all of you whom are into indie and just easy listening music. I also threw in some electronica for those of you who enjoy beats and whatnot. Each track has a great feel to it for the winter season, without the same old repetitive Christmas songs. Also, most of these songs I have a strong emotional bond to, their bands included I made this playlist for you to do your homework to, fall asleep to, or just take a break and chill for a little bit. If you have a smart phone and have a QR code reader app (they are free in the app store) scan the QR code found at the bottom and it will take you right to the playlist. If you do not have a smart phone, then it can be found online on 8tracks.com on my profile: bringmethepatrick. Hope you enjoy! -Emily

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Your Fall and Winter Playlist 1.Home – Ingrid Michaelson 2. The Predatory Wasp of The Palisades Is Out To Get Us! – Sufjan Stevens 3. Tighten Up – The Black Keys 4. OnMelancholy Hill [Acoustic] – Gorillaz 5. fallingforyou – The 1975 6. Hannah Hunt – Vampire Weekend 7. Tuning In (Feat. Hums Contemporary Choir) – Bastille 8. The Turntable Turnabout (Money) – Mystery Skulls 9. Here It Goes Again – OK GO 10. Laughter Lines – Bastille 11. One – Ed Sheeran 12. Simple As This – Jake Bugg 13. Young Volcanoes [Live in London] – Fall Out Boy 14. Vultures [Live] – John Mayer 15. Wonderful Unknown (Feat. Greg Laswell) – Ingrid Michaelson 16. Something About Us - Daft Punk 17. Baba Yetu - Peter Hollens and Malukah (by Myles’s request) 18. Ghosting - Mother Mother

DECEMBER 2014 the BLAZER

29.

11/21/2014 1:03:11 PM

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11/25/2014 4:06:19 PM

Football team makes playoffs for first time in five years

By: Malyq Catron ith some outstanding wins under their belt, Flushing a chance. The Raiders’ spirits stayed up Flushing’s football team has accomplished despite the predictions, and they found themselves something that they haven’t done a long time. holding the District championship trophy after In the regular season, Flushing fought for a 28-21 win. After Flushing’s time in the playoffs, big victories against long-time rival Powers and MVP senior Chris Triplett shared his thoughts. new league rival Linden. The “I think our team had a nice 2014 Raiders dominated league season, it was great to be a part competition and broke the of this winning program. It was school record for most points awesome to be able to bring our scored in a season. This carried team to a win like that and it the Raiders to an impressive shows what this team has done record of 7-2, and pushed them to me and the other players.” to the MHSAA playoffs for the Assistant coach Mark Schilke first time in five years. continued, “It was a great first While in the playoffs, Flushing won a first year in the Flint Metro League, we made it as far round game against the Vikings of Lansing Everett. in the playoffs as any team in Flushing has. Our This victory set up a matchup against neighboring players were committed to be the best team we have foe Carman-Ainsworth. After a dissapointing loss ever had.” Raider fans eagerly wait to see what will against the Cavaliers last year, the media didn’t give happen next year.

Cross Country team always looking to improve

By: Malyq Catron lushing’s cross country has been doing well in go under 16 minutes in the 5k event,” Rob said as he the competitions that they have been a part of. shared the teams specific goals. Recently, the girls cross country team Rob also talked about the future of the team. placed 2nd in regionals This young team could with help from captains, turn out to be a dominant Addie May and Jadyn force in upcoming years. Fuerst. “I feel they will do well The overall team, as they progress through boys and girls combined, the years. They have to placed 7th in regionals stay dedicated and keep thanks to hard work and training.” plenty of personal bests Just like all other from everyone. As a Flushing sports, there result, our cross country is no shortage of team went to states to compete. Boys cross country dedication in the cross country program. The team captain, Rob Roest, shared his thoughts on how experienced success in 2014, but like Rob said, the he wanted to place in states. Along with his other young runners look to make the next few years even teammates, Rob wanted to improve. “I am trying to better.

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DECEMBER 2014 the BLAZER

31. 11/24/2014 1:07:24 PM

Girls varsity volleyball claims Metro League, District titles

“S

weep” seems to be the word that describes the 2014 Girls Varsity Volleyball season. The girls ended the league season 7-0 and were named Metro League champions. Overall, the team went 27-15-2. In the postseason, the girls defeated Owosso, Saginaw High, and St. Johns, claiming their tenth consecutive district title. Skill and Communication are key ingredients to success, but the girls add their own spice to earn their wins. They use their close and strong relationships between one another to balance out their strengths and weaknesses. Captain Carson Rutherford explained that “Ohana” is the root of their team. “Ohana” means family and that no one gets left behind or forgotten. The love and passion that pumps through

By: Lindsey Coenen the teams veins is the greater factor that puts Flushing Volleyball on top. “Not only did Coach Andrews improve our psychical skills for the game, but also taught us how to circulate as a team and learn to connect with our teammates on a deeper level on and off the courts.” Accompanying captain Lexi Keifer says, “Coach Andrews has a big effect on us as a team. She acts as a second parent to us. We all connect with her on a deeper level than just a coach or a teacher.” Their journey came to end at Davison High School when they were defeated by Lapeer in the semi regionals. They split 2-2 and lost by a short three points 12-15 in the fifth set. Despite the bitter loss, the girls endured an unforgettable season and made memories they will never forget.

Girls swim successful in inaugural Flint Metro season

By: James Napier fter many years of partnership with Carman- confidence-building wins in their first few weeks Ainsworth, our school swim program was together. A fourth-place finish at the Genesee thrown off guard. Flushing cut ties with CA, along County meet kept spirits high and the team with the other Saginaw Valley League teams, and headed into the final stretch of their season with entered the Flint Metro League. The absence of a momentum. The swimmers’ determination and pool in Flushing requires the dedication transferred into formation of a similar new “Bonding with our new hard work in preparation partnership with a fellow for the Metro League finals. FML school. After plenty of teammates was overall the Multiple personal records thought and consideration, best experience of the sea- and top ten finishes lead to the pool at Swartz Creek a SCFH third-place finish. son.” -Rebecca Bade became the new home for Notably, junior Selena our swim program. Adams took second-place Our girl swimmers were the first to in the 100m backstroke, with a school recordexperience a season under the SCFH moniker. At breaking time. first the idea seemed difficult to grasp, but senior The inaugural season of SCFH swimming captain Rebecca Bade said, “Bonding with our new was met with success. Despite coming into a new teammates was overall the best experience of the league with new teammates, our lady Raiders came season.” out on top. As the girls’ determination to succeed The girls bonded well and grabbed some continues, the future looks bright as well.

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DECEMBER 2014 the BLAZER

SPORTS

11/24/2014 1:03:46 PM

Controversy with the Redskins name

The owner of the Washington Redskins football team, Daniel Snyder, expressed his thoughts about changing the name as, the name being “true to our history and honouring the deep and enduring values our name represents.” The Redskins were known as the Boston Braves until George Marshall changed their name to the Redskins 80 years ago. The name is obviously important to many people and something that would be hard to let go of after 80 years but you also have to think about the 23 Native American tribes and 50 other organizations that are offended and who want the name to be changed. So do you think they should have to change their name?

he Washington Redskins have been in the NFL for 80 years. In 1933 the name was changed from the “Braves” to the “Redskins” and there was no controversy over it. If you think about it a lot of sports teams have names that could possibly be offensive. Why is no one making a big deal over Notre Dame’s Fighting Irish, The Kansas City Chiefs, The Cleveland Indians, Or the Minnesota Vikings? Couldn’t they be offensive as well? The University of Pennsylvania’s Annenberg election survey showed that 90% of Native Americans said that the Redskin’s name did not offend them, 9% said that it was offensive to them, while 1% had no opinion. So if the Native Americans aren’t mad about the name then where is the controversy coming from? People are just being hard headed. If 80 years ago no one had a problem with the name then why is it coming up now? I’ll tell you why it’s because over the years people are being more opinioned. The controversy comes in waves, people complain then it dies down and it seems like no one cares but then people complain again. I don’t feel like it shouldn’t even be called a controversy since reporters just use it as filler news. Until it becomes a big problem that people continue to complain about, the Washington Redskins will not be changing their name. By Emily Beutler

SPORTS

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YES

ould it be okay to call the Detroit Lions the Detroit Whiteskins, Yellowskins, or Blackskins? No, then what’s the difference? There isn’t one, they are all racial slurs. The team “The Washington Redskins” offend many and It’s a matter of respect whether or not they should change it, plain and simple. The Redskins should change their name to respect people’s opinions and to be considerate of others’ feelings. If Native Americans feel it’s offensive and racist towards them then that should already be enough to want to change the name. “If I were the owner of the team and I knew that the name of my team, even if they’ve had a storied history, that was offending a sizable group of people, I’d think about changing it,” president Obama said. Why won’t the Redskins change their name? Changing their name won’t have a negative impact, it won’t make them lose fans or change the way they play, if anything they will gain repsect and media attention for being courteous of others’ opinions. Instead of making it all such a big deal I feel the best way to get the best outcome would be to take a vote from all fans/residents of all genders, ages and races including Native Americans and see how the majority feels. By Morgan Keeler

DECEMBER 2014 the BLAZER

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11/20/2014 4:45:07 PM

Concussions continue to be a danger in contact sports

By Lindsey Coenen

th quarter. The Flushing Raiders score a touchdown with 0:05 seconds left on the clock! The pass is caught and celebrataion sinks in throughout the crowd. Little did everyone notice the player that caught the game winning throw, is down on the field and is not getting up. Word is spread to the crowd the player has a consussion. What good is the win when a team player canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t even remember it? Althetes are unaware of the damage repeated consussions can leave behind. Concussions among all althletes are very common and have aftermath characteristcs people are not aware of. Mayo Clinic, from MayoClinic.org says that the symptoms of a concussion are forgetfulness, headaches, dizziness, and fatigue. They usually disappear after about ten days. Medline Plus states that those symptoms can lead to repeated complaints of physical, mental, emotional, and behavioral symptoms, sometimes referred to as post-concussion syndrome. In rare cases, when repeated concussions occur, a pathological response of the brain that can be life-threatening, can be triggered if not treated right away. It can also lead to additional brain damage. What actually happens during a concussion? Accordng to Concussiontreatment.com, when an athlete recieves a direct blow to the head or whiplash to the body, the brain actually hits the opposite side

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of the inner skull causing delicate brain pathways to be damaged. Parents, are you wondering how to correctly get a concussion evaulated? If your child loses consciousness due to impact during a sporting event, it should be evaluated by the nearest hospital emergency department. If its less severe, they should be evaulated on site and later brought in to their primary care taker. Its very important you do not let an athlete participate in any physical activities until approved by a professional. In failure to do so, you are putting an athlete at risk for a repeated concussion. If an athlethe obtains a concusion without the previous one healed, they may endure long-term problems, such as learning difficulties or chronic headaches. Although it rarely happens, repeated concussions can cause permanent brain damage and even death. (Orthoinfo.aaos.org) Ways to prevent your child from sports related consussions are proper equipment, trained in sports technique, and to know the rules of the game. Understanding the long lasting consequences of repeated concussion is an important part of prevention. So, play hard, play smart, and have fun!

DECEMBER 2014 the BLAZER

SPORTS

11/26/2014 1:35:37 PM

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