The Bucs' Blade: Surviving Sexual Assault | March 2018

p. 8-11

GRAND HAVEN HIGH SCHOOL Volume 73 Issue 5, bucsblade.com

March 29, 2018

staff 73

letter from the

EDITOR IN CHIEF Maddie Brockmyre

EDITOR

NEWS EDITOR Jack Nicholson SPORTS EDITOR Chris Hudson Jack Reus PHOTO EDITOR Julia Drabczyk Maddie Monroe BUSINESS MANAGER Caleb Berko REPORTERS Jaime Cowman Morgan Dreese Maddie Fogg Nick Garvale Xavi Golden Sophia Jaeger Kelly Klouw Paul Moffett Carlos Rappleye Ryan Tongue Lucy Toppen Ashton Voorhees Alexis VanSingel Kiley Williams Sam Woiteshek Morgan Womack Alex Plouff

PUBLICATION POLICY The Bucs’ Blade is a student-produced news publication that publishes information relevant to the times as well as material that is essential to the overall well-being of its readers. It is The Bucs’ Blade’s responsibility to cover school, city, state, national and international events and issues that affect the concerns of the campus, its students or its readers.

The Bucs’ Blade operates as a designated public forum for student expression. The Editorial Board consisting of student editors is the sole decision-making and policy setting body of The Bucs’ Blade and has final say over all content decisions.. The adviser and administration have a non-review role and may offer advice on sensitive issues and will offer criticisms as warranted after publication but the Editorial Board reserves all rights to determine what material shall be published. Editorials represent the collective opinion of The Bucs’ Blade staff.

2 INDEX

Dear readers, This is the final edition of the Bucs’ Blade before the senior edition, meaning this is the final paper this year with an indepth about special topic (not that seniors aren’t special, just that the last paper is an expected indepth choice.) But I think we’ve chosen a good one to end on.

In this paper we tell the story of a strong survivor of sexual assault, a topic I’ve wanted to talk about ever since I was a reporter on staff sophomore year. With the recent #MeToo movement, Larry Nassar cases and the realization that college is coming soon, sexual assault becomes more and more real for me every day.

This past Sunday, as I was leaving the school at 10:30 p.m. from designing this paper and my mom called me to ask when I was going to be home. I replied, telling her that I was on my way out of the building. Her next questions were, “How far away is your car? Is there anyone to walk out there with you?”

Now, my mother is just doing her job. She is supposed to be worried about me. However, I have never heard her ask my brother, a 14-year-old that rides his bike to friends houses everyday, alone, those same questions with that same level of anxiety in her voice.

For my 16th birthday, I was given pepper spray to hang on my car keys. Two weeks ago, a junior in one of my classes laughed when he saw it, asking, “Are you really that scared of getting raped?

Who is going to rape you in Grand Haven?”

I’ve taken self defense classes and gotten pep talks before I go to friends houses, or the beach, or downtown, or a concert. Those talks are the times during which my parents tell me to never be alone, never accept a drink from anyone, never walk with earbuds in or with my head down or with out my keys in my hand, just in case someone tries to attack me. I’m told to be on alert in parking lots, city streets, at parties, at restaurants, at work, at school. Everywhere, all the time.

Some people, typically boys, will never experience the fear of being raped because that fear is not instilled in them. They don’t read about it happening to people like them, or listen to their friends get choked up as they recount their horrible experience, or hear the fear in their mother’s voice as they walk out of their own high school on a Sunday night.

For those people, the deniers, the dismissers, the disbelievers, sexual assault isn’t real. Hopefully, this story package begins to change their mind. For those who have survived a sexual assault, we believe you and support you.

ON THE COVER PHOTO BY Julia Drabczyk

Tina and Steve Shannon stand in their living room with a family photo.

Contents

NEWS

p. 3 Staff editorial p. 4 School safety p. 5 Briefs

LIFE & ARTS

p. 6 Health and fitness p. 7 Fashion p. 12-13 Reviews p. 14 School arts p. 15 Chalkboard Project

SPORTS

Thank you for reading,

@bucsblade

p. 17 Grant Ruster p. 18-19 Sports updates

@thebucsblade The Bucs’ Blade Maddie Brockmyre Editor in chief

www.bucsblade.com

Letters and submissions: Opinions expressed by individuals and in letters to the editor represent those of the author. Letters to the editor should be typed, double spaced and must include the author’s name, signature and class or position. Names of individuals may be withheld upon request, pending a vote of the Editorial Board. Letters may be submitted in hard copy to room 0205 at Grand Haven High School or via email at bucsblade@gmail.com. All letters are subject to review by the Editorial Board. Letters will not be edited except to fix space limitations. Should the Editorial Board deem a letter to be potentially libelous or containing content inappropriate for publication it will return the letter to the author with an opportunity for corrections. The Editorial Board is solely responsible for these decisions. Letters need to be received one week prior to print publication dates to be included in print.

INDEPTH

p. 8-11 Surviving sexual assault: Mike Shannon was only 10-years-old when he was assaulted.

Through the Childrens’ Advocacy Center, he and his family healed. This is his story.

March 29, 2018, www.bucsblade.com

Julia Drabczyk THE BUCS’ BLADE

IT’S UP TO US

98 seconds.

Roughly every minute and a half an American is sexually assaulted, according to the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN).

On average, there are 351,500 victims of rape and sexual assault each year in the United States. One in six women will experience an attempted or completed sexual assault in their lifetime, while one in 33 men will. Young women from the ages of 16-19 are four times more likely to be sexually assaulted than the general population.

We know that rape is a problem. It’s covered in health classes now, taught to elementary kids and awareness campaigns are promoted all around us. Brave survivors share their stories in the media and organizations like the Children’s Advocacy Center and the Center for Women in Transition do amazing work to provide counseling and aid to those who need it. However, despite the resources we have and the general consensus that rape is a problem, sexual assault is not always treated like a problem in our society.

We have cultivated an incredibly damaging

culture that perpetuates rape and sexual assault. Rape jokes have become a norm, something students hear in the hallways and read online. Athletes will laugh after a bad loss and claim they were “raped” by the other team.

Students will joke about being “raped” by hard tests or high prices.

STAFF EDITORIAL Support 7-0

Victim blaming tells survivors that the experience was their own fault. Asking them what they were wearing, what they were drinking or if they were leading the person on all assumes that the reason someone was raped was because of their own actions, and

1-800-656-4673 National Sexual Assault Hotline, open 24 hours

www.bucsblade.com, March 29, 2018

not the perpetrator’s.

Both of these stem from ignorance, the most prevalent part of rape culture. Ignorance leads people to discrediting rape survivors. Ignorance leads people to laugh at sexual assault. Ignorance leads people to believe that it doesn’t happen here, just because they haven’t seen it. Ignorance leads people to think that the length of a skirt determines the validity of someone’s right to their body.

Through rape culture, survivors are silenced and the crimes of perpetrators are normalized, which is why it is up to us to tell a different story. As shown by the recent “Me Too” movement and RAINN studies, sexual assault is unfortunately around us everywhere we go. But we can change that.

It’s up to us to hold each other accountable, to shut down rape jokes, victim blaming and toxic attitudes about sex and consent. It’s up to us to speak up for and believe in each other, to counsel and support those who desperately need it. It’s up to us, whether you are a young person or an educator or a parent, to change the narrative of sexual assault in our society.

TO READ “SURVIVING SEXUAL ASSAULT” GO TO PAGE 8

EDITORIAL 3

SCHOOL SAFETY

Staff and students respond to school shootings in light of recent events

By Jack Nicholson

S

Julia Drabczyk THE BUCS’ BLADE WALKOUT: Students and staff had the choice to particapte in the nationwide walkout or walkin on Mar. 14 for 17 minutes in rememberance of the 17 victims at Parkland High School. The participants stood for a moment of silence during this time right in front of the school.

AR-15-platform rifles are among the most popular firearms being sold. Known to be semi-automatic and have high magazine capacities.

Glock semi-automatic pistols are apart of the most common handguns worldwide due to it’s selection and price range.

ince Dec. 5 small talk has run amuck between the school board about weapons’ role in the school setting and what gun-related bills will be allowed to be voted on.

Ever since that date the constant changes with the state of Michigan and shocking events within the country have made it’s reform with specific intent.

There are four bills in the package that were connected similarly — regarding the topic of allowing votes on concealed weapons with their place in the school — all of the proposals have different meanings behind what context they want to relieve.

Senate bill 584 allows an individual with a concealed carry pistol license to have the option to request a special authorization to carry such firearm into no-carry zones. This includes schools, needing only an additional minimal amount of training.

Grand Haven Police Department Officer, Ryan Devries, who serves as the school’s resource officer, has some concerns about bill 584 along with Senate Bill 586 and 366 — prohibiting the board of local education from decisions on whether or not to allow weapons on school property — adjusting the age of concealment from 18-21 ranges rather than the solidified 21 set by law.

“I don’t know if I am that fond [of bill 584] because

I’ve read into the details about the training they need and it seems very minimal,” Devries said. “I don’t think schools are the place to have guns.”

Devries is concerned due to his position. As a keeper of protection, school police officers face the possibility of someone with limited training enter the building with a firearm can be of extreme risk. Especially if a dangerous scenario arises with an individual like this in the building, either being the culprit or bystander with a weapon by their side.

“I don’t necessarily think there is a place for guns to be in schools,” Devries said.

“You are going to allow someone with a few hours of extra training to conceal a gun in the hopes that they are going to make the right decision if something happens.”

School board president, John Siemion believes the decision should be made by local leaders, not at the state level.

“Decisions on guns in schools needs to be handled by the local school districts and not be our legislature.

We know our district better that the legislators,” Siemion said. “I believe that only law enforcement professionals should be the ones allowed to carry firearms in our schools.

They have been trained to handle life and death situations.”

The open laws were

placed in Grand Haven area public schools more than a week ago which flew under the radar of many. Siemion comments on behalf of The Board of Education and the community’s whole.

Siemion explained that the GHAPS Board of Education passed a resolution opposing Senate Bills 584-586 and 366. The resolution urges lawmakers and the Governor to allow local school boards to enact their own policies regarding weapons on school grounds.

“I am the Secretary of the Ottawa Area ISD Board of Education,” Siemion said.

“Our board also has passed a resolution in opposition to these bills.”

Officer Devries seems mostly up in the air about the whole general idea and concepts being tossed into the school’s own infrastructure.

Stating some changes seem decent enough for alteration and some really don’t have the extensive impact. It’s a time now to evaluate what certain bills are standing for.

“I would like to see a little bit more details about the ‘extra training’ that would be involved,” Devries said. “If that CCW (Concealed Carry Weapon) holder rules, were made to be a bit more intricate and a little bit more indepth maybe my mind would change. But again with the minimal training standards…

I don’t know if this is going to be a good idea.”

6

Deaths: 15 Wounded: 21

4 NEWS

Deaths: 10 Wounded: 7

Deaths: 33 Wounded: 23

Deaths: 27 Wounded: 2

-

9 9

Deaths: 17 Wounded: 14

School shootings are apart of the Deadliest Mass Shootings in US History source: cga.ct.gov

March 29, 2018, www.bucsblade.com

In case you missed it JUNIOR TESTING WHAT TO BRING 1.) Approved calculators

WHAT NOT TO BRING 1.) Cell Phones! Leave them at

2.) Your ID (school or driver’s li- home or in your cars cense

2.) No food or drinks (this in-

3.) Fully charged chromebook cludes water) in class for day #3

3.) Smartwatches (apple watch,

4.) #2 pencils

fitbits, etc.)

COURTESY PHOTO FINALISTS: Seniors Mason Osborne, Noah Merrimen, Trent Stegink and John Richardson recieve their recognition as National Merit finalists.

NATIONAL MERIT GHHS finalists earn their recognition for the hard to achieve scholarships

By Caleb Berko Noah Merriman, Trent Stegink, John Richardson, and Mason Osborne announced on March 13, 2018 that they had advanced to the finalist round in their quest to become National Merit Scholars.

“Without trying to sound vein, it is kinda nice to be recognized,” senior Noah Merriman said. “They select a certain number of finalists to receive scholarships, and it’s nice to be able to go to college and not pay for it.”

The selection process of who gets scholarships is not over yet, however Merriman is one of about 15,000 in the country who is considered a finalist, along with Stegink, Richardson, and Osborne.

“All winners of Merit Scholarship® awards (Merit Scholar®designees) are chosen from the finalist group,” according to nationalmerit.org. “[They’re selected] based on their abilities, skills, and accomplishments-without regard to gender, race, ethnic origin, or religious preference” If you’re interested in becoming a National Merit Scholar, you must take the PSAT/ NMSQT as a junior, plan on going to college the fall following high school graduation, and be a citizen of the United States.

For more information, you can visit nationalmerit.org or see Ms. VanSchelven in student services.

Don’t miss out on the memories...

Buy your 2018 yearbook @ yearbookforever.com

March 29, 2018, www.bucsblade.com

NEWS 5

Up and Running

As the clock skips ahead an hour and buds of tulips start to show, students like senior Miranda Deal develop spring fever and make their way from the treadmills to the trails.

By Kelly Klouw

Q: How did you start running?

MD: My mom is a runner and she encouraged me to do Girls on the Run when I was in elementary school. She was a coach so she always pushed me towards running. In high school Katie Webster always said ‘you have to do cross country with me’ and I didn’t have a fall sport so I just gave it a try and have been doing it since.

Q: Why do you like to run?

MD: I run because I know it’s good for me and I just feel better after. It gives me time to be alone with my thoughts and just listen to music. It’s nice to get off the treadmill and have scenery to look at. Running can be a lifelong sport so it’s something I can do whenever and wherever I go.

Julia Drabczyk THE BUCS’ BLADE All smiles: Deal extends practice by running a lap around the track100

Q: Where are some of your favorite places in the Grand Haven area to run at?

MD: I really like running down the bike path on Lakeshore to Buchanan or through the Conference Grounds, but you can never go wrong with running down the boardwalk, and if you time it just right you can make it for sunset.

Q: What makes you enjoy running at these places?

MD: I think it’s really pretty especially if there is a sunset and I like being out in the woods. It gives me peace.

Q: What are some tips to people who want to start running?

MD: Start by doing a little bit at a time. Convince yourself to run five minutes then after that convince yourself to go on. Tell yourself that wasn’t bad, but you can run five more minutes.

Before you know it you’ve ran like three miles.

On the web Interested in learning other running tips and hot spots? Go to www.bucsblade.com for more from another senior runner, Emily Mattson.

Sippin’ into spring

Whether you’re trying to make Grand Haven a little more tropical, or you’re enjoying the sun in the Caribbean, these simple drinks can make your spring break more refreshing.

Recipes and pictures by Kiley Williams, Jaime Cowman and Kelly Klouw

Over

Mimosa Mocktail

Tropical Smoothie

Virgin Piña Colada

-¾ parts of orange juice -¼ parts of organic lemonade -A splash of Tangerine La Croix

-2 cups of coconut milk -A splash of pineapple juice -A handful of strawberries -2 bananas -½ of an orange

-1 ½ cups of coconut milk -½ cup of pineapple juice -2 cups of ice -1 cup of fresh pineapple -A spoonful of brown sugar

Stir ingredients together slowly.

Add orange for garnish.

Blend together until smooth.

Add granola or fruit for garnish.

Blend together.

Add shredded coconut on top.

On the web Have a long trip ahead of you? Bored, hungry, flying over the ocean, or in the car driving through a corn field? Check out www.bucsblade.com for quick and healthy snacks, movies to binge watch, new apps to download, and more!

6 HEALTH

60

Years of Service 100 North Third Street Grand Haven, MI 616.842.3030 www.scholtenfant.com March 29, 2018, www.bucsblade.com

Sophomore Nick Rice shows off his spiritual fashion sense

By Julia Drabczyk

STYLE STATEMENT Q: How would you describe your style?

NR: I kinda blend a lot of things, so I blend California street wear to fair trade from all sorts of cultures.

Q: Where do you get your inspiration from?

NR: I honestly like to think that I get half from friends and half from video games like anime. Like half is from real people like Jaden Smith, people in music, and the other is from characters in video games.

Q: Where are your go to shopping places?

NR: I go wherever I can find stuff, but a lot of it is from Pac Sun, like I just got some pants from Tillys. I go to Goodwill a lot, some vintage stuff. And there’s a place in Pentwater that is called Pentwater Fair Trade Co. and they have some clothes there and I get a lot from there too. Wherever I can find something that sticks out to me.

Q: What adivice to you have for others?

NR: All of the shoes I own I draw on and I just think for everybody else that if they like to express themselves through clothes then they need to do it. It’s a lot more fun when you go out wearing something unique and more true to you than just what a lot of people wear.

www.bucsblade.com, March 29, 2018

FASHION 7

SURVIVING SEXUAL ASSAULT

Julia Drabczyk THE BUCS’ BLADE REMEMBERING: Tina Shannon holds a photo of Mike from when he was 10, the age he was when he revealed to his family that he was sexually assaulted.

T 8 IN DEPTH

By Morgan Womack and Sophia Jaeger

ina Shannon stood in the bathroom getting ready for a work luncheon as the sounds of Doctor Phil echoed from the TV. It was Thanksgiving week and everything seemed perfectly normal in the Shannon household. This would be the last moment that the false sense of normalcy would remain. Her then young son

was about to tip their world on its axis with one simple question.

“Mom, what does molesting mean?” then 10-year-old Mike Shannon said.

She had no idea this very question had been weighing on her son’s mind since overhearing last night’s program of Law and Order. He had slowly been building up his courage because now he knew what had been

happening to him was not okay. He knew that he himself had been a victim of sexual assault and all that was left was to tell his mom.

Mike’s heart raced as his mom explained the definition. Hesitantly, he said he thinks he has been molested.

At first, Tina was confused, thinking he was joking. He was always joking with them.

“You don’t believe me?” Mike said.

March 29, 2018, www.bucsblade.com

Q&A

with Lesley Coghill

Coghill is the Prevention Outreach Coordinator at Center for Women in Transition. She answered our questions about consent and safe relationships.

By Maddie Brockmyre Q: What is consent?

LC: Consent is an affirmative and clear yes. Consent is when the two people involved are both willing and enthusiastic and on the same page and mutually consenting to the same thing.

Both people are aware of what’s going to happen and both people are aware of the consequences.

Q: Under what conditions is consent not available?

LC: Situations in which there is an imbalance of power. For example, if someone is someone’s boss, or if they are quite a bit older, or if there is just an imbalance that leads one person to feel pressured or afraid of the consequences of saying no or resisting. Also, if someone is under the influence of drugs or alcohol to the point of being inebriated, they cannot give consent.

Q: Is there anything you want to tell students about safety and sexual assault prevention?

LC: Always be a good bystander. And that goes to all of us, regardless of gender identity or age or whatever.

All of us have the power to be a good bystander, help our friends, look out for our friends, promote respect and equality within our social circles.

IF YOU THINK...

Tina turned pale and almost fainted in shock. It was at that moment she realized the family was facing a real life nightmare.

She would learn later that Michael had been sexually assaulted over the span of two years by his best friend’s 17-year-old brother when Mike would visit their house.

“From that moment on, the floor just dropped right out from underneath us,” Tina said.

THE FIRST STEP FORWARD

After talking to the police, they were asked to act as normal as possible. They had to endure the pain of waiting for Thanksgiving vacation’s end to start the long journey that would be the healing process.

“We still went to Thanksgiving at my mother’s house and everybody knew something was up because we weren’t joking, we weren’t smiling,” Tina’s husband, Steve Shannon, said. “With something like that, that’s what’s on your mind.”

The police referred them to the Children’s Advocacy Center (CAC) and they could go as soon as the break ended. The CAC is a nonprofit organization that focuses on child sexual abuse prevention and intervention. All of the services are free to victims and their families, with a goal to provide a supportive and safe environment where victims can come to disclose and be supported throughout the entire process.

When Mike arrived at the CAC, his dad gave him a pep talk before they walked in.

He explained how important it was that he did this. Mustering up courage, Mike walked inside.

Your friend is being abused: Listen to their experience, believe them, support them with friendship and refer them to a counselor or center.

Your friend is abusing others: Hold your friends accountable, call them out and tell them that the way they are acting with or talking about other people is unacceptable. If their actions are illegal then it may be up to you to report it to a coach or teacher or even law enforcement.

ON THE WEB

For the full interview and more guidance surrounding sexual assault and health, go to www.bucsblade.com

www.bucsblade.com, March 29, 2018

BUILDING A CASE The first step was the forensic interview.

Mike was placed in a room with a two way glass mirror next to a forensic interviewer. Behind the mirror stood a detective, a representative from Child Protective Services, an investigator, prosecutor and a clinician observer recording the interview for legal purposes and also feeding questions to the interviewer so Mike wouldn’t get overwhelmed.

“They asked me in detail what happened, you know, literally down to the motion that I made on his penis and everything, what he made me do down to every gory detail,” Mike said.

Julia Drabczyk THE BUCS’ BLADE FAMILY FACETIME: Steve and Mike Shannon smile at each other while chatting over facetime. Mike is now an Army medical technician and is currenly stationed in Fort Leavenworth, Kansas.

The goal of the forensic interview is to ensure the victims only have to explain what happened to them once, in detail, so they won’t have to experience retraumatization by recounting their story multiple times.

Despite having to recall these traumatizing experiences, the staff at the center is well equipped to handle these situations with care.

“I remember not feeling entirely comfortable, but [the interviewer] was very friendly

and I felt like I could trust her,” Mike said.

A few days later, Mike and his dad came back for the medical exam.

During a medical exam, a doctor conducts a thorough inspection of the patient to search for any signs left on the victim of the abuse they endured.

When Mike went into the room, he asked for his dad to come with him in support, frightened of the process. However, the CAC

IN DEPTH 9

Sexual assault, continued from page 9 employees are well trained and kind hearted, skilled in easing the nervous minds of survivors.

“Mike was laughing and cracking jokes and I saw my son like he used to be,” Steve said, “I remember feeling, ‘Wow, these people are amazing at the center.’”

THERAPEUTIC PROCESS

After the medical exam they truly began the healing process with therapy. Shyra Williams, Program Director and therapist at the CAC, was one of the people that helped Mike with coping mechanisms and counseling.

The center provides many types of therapy but they focus primarily on Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. The target is to reduce the symptoms of post traumatic stress and help survivors engage in a safe and positive way with their guardians.

“I think every victim has inside of them what they need to heal and it’s my job to draw that out and support them during that process,” Williams said.

The hardest thing was for Mike to speak about his experience and the abuse he suffered through.

However, Williams’ job is to help the victims overcome that fear.

“What we’re actually going to talk about the most is what happened,” Williams said, “We’re going to talk about it so much that you can talk about it like it was a Tuesday and you brushed your teeth.”

Mike went through multiple counseling sessions and Steve and Tina participated in therapy with a group of parents. Executive director of the Children’s Advocacy Center, Darcy Komejan, says that the center offers sessions to family members as well because sexual assault can often affect more than just the survivor. Those close to the victim could experience secondary trauma and struggle with moving on, just as their loved one does.

LEGAL SYSTEM

Along with helping the victims heal, the CAC also provides legal aid to help prosecute the offenders. Jacob Jenison, an assistant prosecutor that works with the CAC, seems like a regular lawyer with his suit and tie. But then as he sits down and crosses his legs, his polka dotted socks peek out from under his pant leg and it’s obvious that he works with kids.

Maddie Monroe THE BUCS’ BLADE

Julia Drabczyk THE BUCS’ BLADE HOLDING TOGETHER: Tina and Steve Shannon hold hands on the couch. They say that through the trauma they and their son endured, they became a stronger family.

“

And it’s one of those life events that changes people forever. We’ll never be the same completely trusting or innocent folks.

Steve Shannon

SEXUAL SPECTRUM According to Lesley Coghill from the Center for Women in Transition, there is a range of what qualifies as assault or harassment. The two

10 IN DEPTH

blend together at times making it tough to give a direct definition of the two separately. Here are some examples.

If charges are authorized, then the defendant gets picked up and arrested on the warrant. The defendant then get arraigned and it goes in front of the judge for sentencing.

Many cases don’t get tried in court because the offenders take a plea deal. This means that the only time a victim sees the courtroom is during sentencing where an impact statement is read, for which a prosecutor assists the family in working through the legal system.

“When it’s time for a hearing or if [the victims] have to testify, that’s when I try to make them feel as comfortable as possible and it’s not easy because

they’re under the stress of the situation,” Jenison said.

Around six months after Mike came forward with the news, a sentencing hearing occurred. It was already established beforehand that the defender would serve from 3 to 15 years in prison, but legally, a hearing needed to be held.

In order to protect Mike, his parents decided he would not go the hearing and have to see his abuser again. Steve read his impact statement to the judge, detailing the effects of the abuse on their family and specifically Mike. The judge was so moved by the statement that the sentence was increased to

Sexual comments or jokes

Seductive behavior and advances

Unsolicited explicit photos

Unwanted touching or groping

Julia Drabczyk THE BUCS’ BLADE FRIENDLY FROG (TOP): The Children’s Advocacy Center provides a safe environment for victims of sexual assault and with kid-friendly elements in each room.

MIGHTY MIKE (ABOVE): A framed photo of Mike sits in Tina and Steve’s living room.

four years minimum “We brought a picture of Mike in just so he could see who we were dealing with and not just a name or a number, that Michael is an actual human being,” Tina said, “His statement really impacted a lot of people.”

Mike’s abuser served 10 years in prison for criminal sexual conduct of the third degree.

THE AFTERMATH

After their positive experience with the CAC, Steve and Tina were inspired to help others in the

Threats, blackmail or pressuring

Manipulating a power position

same situation. They used their optimistic attitudes to teach and empower people in group settings with the “Darkness to the Light, Stewards of Children” training.

When Mike was a sophomore, Williams encouraged him to share his story at a CAC holiday fundraiser “Bids & Bites.” When it came to the day he was unsure and hesitant to come forward and speak but Williams explained to him that if he shared this, he would impact others’ lives. “[I learned] if more people know about my story and see the outcome, see the difference from then and now, they might have a little more confidence in themselves and have a little more confidence in each other, really,” Mike, who now serves in the Army as a medical technician, said.

Mike spoke at the Pay It Forward Never Again charity dinner this past December.

The Shannon’s life was changed completely by what happened to Mike but they have done much to overcome that.

“At that time, you know, it was horrible,” Steve said, “And it’s one of those life events that changes people forever. We’ll never be the same completely trusting or innocent folks.”

Steve and Tina are currently raising their grandson and find themselves questioning people’s motives constantly, wondering why people want to be a soccer coach or a Cub Scout leader. They don’t ever let their grandson sleep over at other people’s homes and shiver when they hear of people allowing their children to do so.

Despite their loss of trust and hesitant perspective on others’ motives, the Shannons became closer and choose to see the good that came from their struggle.

“I think the positives that came out of this whole situation outweigh the negatives,” Mike said, ““I had no doubt in my mind that whatever I needed my parents for, they would be there for me.

We’re definitely stronger as a family.”

Editor’s note: If you or anyone you know has been assaulted and you are under the age 17, please contact the Children’s Advocacy Center for help. If you are above the age 17, go to the Center for Women in Transition. Both centers provide services for free and are confidential. They can provide you with therapy, help you navigate the legal system and guide you toward healing.

If you do not want to go to a center, please speak with a school counselor or teacher that you trust. You are not alone.

Physical assault and rape

March 29, 2018, www.bucsblade.com

www.bucsblade.com, March 29, 2018

CHARGE?

Criminal sexual conduct of the first degree

Up to

LIFE

in prison

For many cases, if the victim is under 17 and the offender is over, there is a 25 year mandatory minimum. If found guilty, the defendant must register as a sex offender.

REQUIREMENTS: There is penetration, which can include sexual or anal intercourse, oral sex or intrusion into any genital openings.

The victim is under the age of 13, the offender is employed at the school of the victim or lives in the home of the victim, or there was a weapon involved or more.

Criminal sexual conduct of the second degree

Up to

15

years in prison

The defendant must register as a sex offender.

REQUIREMENTS: There is sexual contact and touching of the private areas but no penetration.

The victim is under the age of 13, the offender is employed at the school of the victim or lives in the home of the victim, or there was a weapon involved or more.

Criminal sexual conduct of the third degree

Up to

15

years in prison

The defendant must register as a sex offender.

REQUIREMENTS: There is penetration, which can include sexual or anal intercourse, oral sex or intrusion into any genital openings.

The victim is between the ages of 13 and 16, the offender is employed at the school of the victim or is related to the third degree, there was force involved or more.

Criminal sexual conduct of the fourth degree

Up to

2

years in prison

If the court decides that it was an attempted CSC 4, it becomes a misdemeanor punishable with up to a year in prison.

The defendant must register as a sex offender.

SEXUAL ASSAULT

SEXUAL HARASSMENT

What’s the

REQUIREMENTS: There is sexual contact and touching of the private areas but no penetration.

The victim is 13 to 16-years-old, there was force involved, the offender was aware the victim was physically helpless or more.

IN DEPTH 11

Diversity in drama

Movie night: Aside from being a fun romantic comedy perfect for a night in, Love, Simon makes strides for the portrayal of LGBTQ+ characters in Hollywood.

Punta playlist

What to listen to when laying out in the sun

By Jaime Cowman Guidance: K. Forest, Babafemi With it’s heavy Caribbean and dancehall influence, the song will make you feel like you’re a local of your vacation getaway.

Passionfruit: Drake A radio hit that still hasn’t gotten old, perfect for a day out in the sun. If you like the sound, Drake’s playlist More Life has many tracks that are similar.

Rollin: Calvin Harris, Future, Khalid

Fox Movies

Two films make an impact on how viewers relate to LGBTQ+ characters

By Kiley Williams In the past few years, the fight for representation has erupted. The LGBTQ+ community has received a few Hollywood attempts such as Jenny’s Wedding, Brokeback Mountain, and Imagine Me & You, and so far they’ve all be somewhat of a flop. While successful in the box office, they’ve been filled with stereotypes, inaccurate information of the LGBTQ+ community, and have underdeveloped and flat characters. Usually directed by straight directors, acted by straight actors, and catered to straight audience members, these movies lack connectivity with the queer mind and heart.

Now in 2017 and 2018, some of the best movies for the LGBTQ+ community, specifically LGBTQ+ youth, have graced the big screen. Call Me By Your Name (Rated R) and Love, Simon (Rated PG-13) are both being dubbed as heroic and huge steps toward equality in media. Both movies preach acceptance and love, whether it be explicitly said or not.

Love, Simon hit theaters on March 16, 2018 and it successfully gained $11.7 million on opening weekend. It is the classic coming-of-age story that most teens can relate to, finding who you are while dealing with the stress of crushes, bullies, and friends; although the twist is that Simon is trying to figure out how to come out. The director Greg Berlanti, an openly gay man, manages to create a realistic representation of how a lot of people feel while closeted and what their journey is like to come out.

Although the film follows a specific plot point, most LGBTQ+ youth can relate to the struggles and triumphs of Simon, Blue, and the other characters.

12 REVIEWS

Openair Cinemas Love wins: Winning the Oscar for best adapted screenplay, Call Me By Your Name makes history in the cinematic world as well as the LGBTQ+ one.

It doesn’t hurt that much of the cast including Joey Pollari, Keiynan Lonsdale, and Clark Moore all identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community, giving the movie even more authenticity and real feeling. It’s a cute, feel-good flick that tackles some big issues but this movie had humour that had the entire theaters in stitches, had emotion where the audience cried together, and moments where we were holding our collective breath.

Overall Love, Simon is the movie so many people need for learning acceptance, tolerance, and patience, and this goes for both straight and queer people.

Luca Guadagnino’s latest film Call Me By Your Name premiered at Sundance in 2017 and has since been released into theaters across the country. The film was nominated for four awards at the 2018 Academy Awards, snagging one for “Best Adapted Screenplay.” Set in 1983, two young

men find themselves desiring each other while spending the summer days on the Italian countryside. It chronicles the story of coming to terms with who they are, while confusion, persuasion, and love all mess with their minds.

No one in this movie ever specifically comes out, but throughout the two and a half hours the parents constantly reassure one of the characters that love is still love.

Although director Luca Guadagnino chose straight actors (Armie Hammer and Timothée Chalamet) for the two main roles, he himself is gay and his perspective helps the film cross over from cheesy and unrealistic to convincing. He helps the actors come across as a believably real couple. The chemistry between them was unlike anything I’d ever seen in a movie, absolutely mesmerizing, and it was so good to see that with a gay couple, hopefully reminding people that those who identify as LGBTQ+ can have the same powerful love as a straight cis couple. It was a nice change to have a masterfully crafted movie, with a beautiful gay love story, without the main focus being that they were gay and without it focusing on the struggle of dealing with the hatred of others.

Between these two movies, strong steps are taken toward, showing that LGBTQ+ movies can be great without having to “straighten up” for mainstream audiences. Both of these films embrace the queer parts of their stories without going too over the top. Hopefully, this isn’t the end of the shift in representation in media of the LGBTQ+ community, because in this day and age when people are trying to push us back into being silent, the culture needs to stand up and speak louder.

With these strides, LGBTQ+ youth will come to realize they are accepted.

It will make you want to drive by the beach with your windows rolled down, no matter the temperature.

Higher: Brian Fresco, Chance the Rapper, Blue Hawaii A more upbeat summer song in case you need something to wake you up from tanning.

Not your typical rap album Logic’s new release shines as number one album on the Billboard top charts.

By Nick Garvale Rapper Logic landed himself on the Billboard top 100 artists once again following the new release of his new album Bobby Tarantino II. Genius Releasing 13 songs last week, Logic gave fans 43 minutes of new music to play from their phone straight to the aux cord. He is known to be one of the most lyrical, emotional, and fastest rappers to date. Logic songs often revolve around his success or universal struggles, such as racism and depression.

As of the week of March 24, Bobby Tarantino II has been selected by Bilboard.com as the number one album surpassing Lil Yachty’s Lil Boat Two and Kendrick Lamar’s Black Panther soundtrack. The long jump from the 40 spot was well deserved for this mix.

Including a two minute long intro of a snippet called “Grandpa’s Spaceship” is incorporated in the tracklist.

From the popular cartoon Rick and Morty, the opener of the entire record starts with the characters of the show talking about Logic and how he has a “plethora of music that varies from mood to mood.” It shows what rap culture already knows, and tells new listeners that his music ranges from a wide variety of topics and themes.

The track “Everyday” is the second most streamed song from the album and third most played Logic song ever, falling short to “44 more” (which is also on the new album) and “1-800-273-8255”, mainly because of the collaboration with popular EDM producer Marshmello. The album also features Wiz Khalifa, Big Sean, and 2 Chainz.

March 29, 2018, www.bucsblade.com

MOVIE ADAPTATION DISAPPOINTS READERS After years of demand from readers, A Wrinkle In Time film fails to show the book justice

By Xavi Golden

In this enjoyable adaptation of the classic young-adult novel, director, Ava DuVernay, has crafted a film that features dozens of highfantasy locations, creatures, and ideas. The film features three children-- Meg (played by Storm Reid), Calvin (played by Levi Miller), and Charles Wallace (played by Deric McCabe)-- who travel the universe to rescue their father (played

by Chris Pine) from the source of evil, showcasing numerous alien

worlds and species along the way.

Its themes of love and acceptance can be understood and appreciated by every member of its audience and it’s wholly inoffensive, suitable for everyone.

Well, maybe not “everyone,” because I’m a teenage boy and I really did not dig this movie. Again, that doesn’t mean this is a bad movie or that you shouldn’t go see it, but this movie is absolute kryptonite to the cynicism, pent-up angst, and low-

key sadomasochism that all teenage boys share. The landscapes are bright and glittery, there are some very noticeable displays of glittery eyeliner, and, well, there’s just a lot of glitter. This whole movie is 50% glitter. Maybe it’s not even teenage boys, maybe it’s just me and maybe I really don’t like glitter.

But there are valid criticisms of movie that people other than me would care about. There are numerous plot holes, for the meti-

clous movie-goer’s mortification; the characters range from endearing to very-useless-and-boring, to the Shakespeare lover’s chagrin; there is a lot of unnecessary dialogue, which is in the place of very necessary dialogue that would explain what the heck is going on; and, well, there really is a lot of glitter.

However, my biggest grievance with A Wrinkle in Time, the movie, is that it is a bad adaptation of A Wrinkle in Time, the book. Now, if the book was any other book about pseudo-science and belief systems, I really wouldn’t care. But it’s a really, really good book. It is masterfully crafted, to the point where every sentence serves a purpose higher than the plot. It can be broken down and analyzed, interpreted to mean dozens of different things.

The characters are complex, it’s a roller coaster of emotions, and the villains are disturbing on numerous levels. However, the movie doesn’t trust its source material. The movie leaves out important parts of the book for the sake of unnecessary scenes that don’t serve any purpose whatsoever and the result is a film with two-dimensional characters, a consistent, emptily cheerful mood, and nonthreatening villains.

That said, many people could still go see this movie and enjoy it. But I know that everyone would enjoy reading the book a whole lot more.

SPRING DENIM STYLES ARRIVING NOW

Visit www.gliks.com to find your nearest location www.bucsblade.com, March 29, 2018

REVIEWS 13

GOTAK brings Irish tunes to town

Aspiring jeweler prepares for West Michigan Showcase event

Senior Cassidy Ryder, an artist who will be representing the high school in Showcase, talks to reporter Morgan Womack about the importance of art in her life.

Maddie Monroe THE BUCS’ BLADE LOUD AND PROUD: GOTAK plays in local Irish Festival. The group of student musicians gathered on the stage to share their Celtic groove with Grand Haven. GOTAK’s performance at the art show is a highlight of the year and was another step in the group’s rising profile. “I like to think more people are following us and getting familiar with GOTAK,” said senior viola player Noah Merriman (front and center above).

A small group of viola playing, drum banging, foot stomping, Celtic loving, music making students have made its mark in Grand Haven. The group calls itself GOTAK, shorthand for “Group of Totally Awesome Kids.”

GOTAK began in 2005 when orchestra director Melissa Meyers noticed a common curiosity her students had of exploring a genre of music other than the consistent classical style taught in the class. Irish seemed to stick because of its fast paced and exciting qualities.

GOTAK has grown exponentially in the 13 years it has been around, but members say the group’s profile around the community has really taken off in the past four years. ¨I like to think more people are following us and getting familiar with GOTAK,¨ said Noah Merriman, a senior viola player and four-year member.¨I think we are doing more gigs and getting a little bit bigger in the community in that aspect. We didn’t always used to do a ton of different gigs.”

This year, those gigs have covered several unique venues including the Irish Festival at First Presbyterian Church, the American Legion on St. Patrick’s Day, and a taped showcase performance at local news WZZM 13.

While GOTAK hosts the Irish Festival annually, this year’s performance was made unique when the group was joined on stage by globally recognized trio, Ten Strings and a Goat Skin.

Members found the experience, with its upbeat energy and audience engagement, to be among the year’s most memorable..

“I really enjoyed this year’s Irish Fest,”

14 ARTS

Maddie Monroe THE BUCS’ BLADE FIDDLE SOLO: Senior Gabrielle Kruizenga steps up to the microphone to play her solo at Irish Fest.

Members of GOTAK found the experience to be among the year’s most memorable performances.

said senior Jenny Ryan a four-year violinist.

“I loved the opportunity of getting to work with Ten Strings and a Goat Skin. That was really cool.¨ While they are most well known for their Irish sound, GOTAK has built up quite an extensive repertoire including genres such as folk, bluegrass, jazz and even rock.

“It’s pretty much our own band,” Ryan said.

This freedom helps fuel their high-energy performances and helps build GOTAK’s culture.

“The people in GOTAK are very fun, energetic people.” freshman violin player Thomas Yonan said. “They are really inclusive to everyone else in the group. We all play together and if someone messes up no one

gets upset at them and we play on, even in solos.”

The group gets together weekly to share their music in this inclusive environment.

While performance schedules vary throughout the year the enthusiasm for the music remains.

“We have a high energy,” Yonan said. “We are all really hyped to play together every Wednesday.”

With gigs picking up, the group is excited to see its following grow..

“People should definitely come check us out,” Ryan said. “I think a lot of times people are a bit timid, like they may not know a lot about us, but once they come out they end up thinking its really cool. So when we have a gig, I hope everyone tries to come.¨

MW: How does art influence how you live?

CR: It’s pretty big in my life. I’m a very creative person, I’m a very visual person as well, so I can express myself through my artwork and there’s nothing holding me back.

MW: What is your favorite medium?

CR: I’m mostly doing jewelry right now, I’m really into that and I kind of want to go to college for that as well. I’m also in painting right now and I really enjoy that, and I’m taking ceramics. Just being able to make functional cups, bowls, stuff like that to use in my household, is really fun.

MW: What are you working on right now?

CR: I’ll be in Showcase, so Mrs. Green and Mrs. Sipe chose me for my wire wrapped stone necklace and I’m going to make a set of that with a bracelet, another necklace and then that necklace.

I think the due date is coming up pretty fast, so I’ve got one more necklace to make, it’s going really well. I’m very grateful and honored that they chose me, it was gratifying.

MW: What does the future for jewelry look like for you?

CR: I really enjoy it and it would be an awesome job to do as a full time job.

So probably just starting in high school, getting the basics down, and then meeting people. I’ve been introduced to local jewelers, maybe mentoring with them even, and then see where that takes me in the future.

Morgan Dreese THE BUCS’ BLADE JEWELRY MAKING: Ryder works on completing her necklace for Showcase. “I think the due date is coming up pretty fast, so I’ve got one more necklace to make, it’s going really well,” Ryder said. www.bucsblade.com, March 29, 2018

CHANGING THE CHALKBOARD Students and staff spread kindness with second installment of project brought to Grand Haven during March 21 pep assembly Photos by Morgan Dreese Captions by Maddie Brockmyre

GETTING INVOLVED: Senior Noah Mireles writes on a poster in the pod one hallway. The Chalkboard Project was brought to Grand Haven by several student leaders. The first step was getting photos of students and staff with hurtful words or phrases they have been called. Then, the posters were hung around the school and last week, colorful pieces of paper were put over the boards. Students were given over an half hour to write something nice on the sticky notes placed on the photos of participants.

ALL FOR ONE (ABOVE): Assistant Principal Mike Roberson takes part in the event. Staff and faculty were encouraged to participate with students.

PHOTOBOOTH FUN (RIGHT): Props for photos sit next to the photobooth. The Chalkboard Project leaders organized a fun environment with music, pictures and a merch table. www.bucsblade.com, March 29, 2018

CHALKBOARD CROWD: Students move through the hallways as they travel from poster to poster, writing kind things on the slips of paper covering the board with hurtful words on them.

FOREIGN FRIEND (ABOVE): Exchange student Anna Biondi participates in the second installation of the Chalkboard Project.

REACHING FOR KINDNESS (LEFT): Senior Katie Hohmeyer writes on a poster. The Chalkboard Project calls attention to bullying and asks for kindness.

PHOTOSTORY 15

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March 29, 2018, www.bucsblade.com

Senior Grant Silent Ruster is Success Senior Grant just fineRuster quietly works and with putting leads, resulting in storied swim career his head

By Ashton Voohees Julia Drabczyk THE BUCS’ BLADE LOOKING FORWARD: Grant Ruster reflects on the splash he left in the Grand Haven Swimming program, while also preparing for what’s ahead.

Senior Grant Ruster holds the record in the 200 individual medley at Grand Haven. But if you haven’t known Grant, there’s a big chance you wouldn’t know that. he’s not really all about the talk.

“The most important thing is really just putting your head down and really training hard,” Ruster said. “There needs to be sacrifices too. You can’t really go out and do stuff the night before a meet, you have to rest, eat, stretch, sleep a lot, and focus.”

Ruster competes in the medley relay, 200 individual medley, sprint relay, 400 relay, and 100 breaststroke. He has competed at a high level all four years, making state cuts every year since being a freshman. A very prestigious accomplishment.

“Grant is a tremendous athlete,” swimming coach Doug Thorne said. “As a freshman, he learned how to be a team player first. He looked up to his older peers. Even though he was faster than some of the upperclassmen, he watched and learned how they carried themselves in the pool and out of it.”

Yet, he doesn’t feel the need to show off, or be cocky. He would much rather stay reserved to himself and let his work do the talking.

He doesn’t even feel like he should be the captain after four years of solid swimming.

“I didn’t want to be captain because I don’t really think that that’s the right place for me,” Ruster said.

“But my coach said I lead by example, I think I do that well. I goof around a lot but when it’s time to work I put my head down, swim, www.bucsblade.com, March 29, 2018

EVERYTHING GRANT RUSTER

Florida was the perfect choice for him.

“That’s really where I want to be,” Ruster said. “Another big thing was that it was the only college I got into by the ocean so I can go to Tampa and study marine science. The team seemed really cool and it was a nice college overall when I visited, and the pool’s outside underneath the sun all day, and that’s really where Ryan Tongue THE BUCS BLADE I want to be.”

Florida is more Ruster’s speed.

Favorite Song: “My House” He prefers Florida’s oceans and

by Flo Rida lifestyle over Michigan’s lakes and Favorite Food: Hamburgers quietness.

Pre-meet routine: Mancino’s “I don’t really like Michigan grinder, laying in bed, and that much,” Ruster said. “I feel listening to music stuck here. I can’t wait to go expeExpert opinion: “Water IS rience different things in college wet” and in Florida.”

Worst Swimming Memory: Despite Ruster’s dislikes for Swimming during conferthe smallness of Grand Haven, ences while sick he he realizes he’s thankful for all the things that it provided for get what needs to be done, done.” him.

As Ruster’s Buccaneer swim“It’s home,” Ruster said. “I’ll ming days comes to a close, he is miss all the guys and friends and proud but ready to move on to the security that I know it’s home.” the next step. The state meets are As Ruster’s time swimming for just a stepping stone to college for Grand Haven comes to an end, Ruster this year. he becomes more and more ready “I kinda want it to be over, but for college swimming. Ruster is at the same time it will be fun be- extremely grateful for the things cause it will be one last go-around,” about high school that have alRuster said. “In my freshman and lowed him to move on to college sophomore years, I was definitely swimming. more excited going into state, this “Everything I’ve worked for year I’m excited too but not as has brought me here, but it wasn’t much as before because I’ve been just me,” Ruster said. “I had a lot there before.” of help along the way. The coachRuster’s swimming future lies es, my friends, my family. I’m really at the University of Tampa. He’s happy for that because I couldn’t nterested in marine science, better have done it on my own, without weather, and obviously swimming, those guys.”

Calling It Like I See It Sam Woiteshek I admit: I’m not a big gymnastics guy.

It’s true that it’s probably the last event I’ll watch in the Olympics; it rarely captures my attention.

However, two months ago, the sport did just that.

But it wasn’t the kind of attention they wanted.

Larry Nassar, a physician for both USA Gymnastics and Michigan State University, was accused and found guilty of 265 cases of sexual assault.

Here in this issue of the Bucs’ Blade, you’ve read stories relating to this issue at a local level.

However, this isn’t a local problem - it’s a national one.

Two years ago, the “Final Five” with Aly Raisman, Gabby Douglas, Laurie Hernandez and Simone Biles competed. Biles was a phenom, Hernandez a pleasant surprise and Raisman dominated, taking silver to Biles.

Now, those memories have sickened to me as I think that each one of them claimed they’d been “treated” by Nassar.

For these actions, USA Gymnastics closed Karolyi Ranch, where the team trains. But is that enough?

No. I’m angry because I want answers. Why didn’t I hear this when it first happened? Is it because the U.S. Olympic committee and USA Gymnastics are concerned about medals?

There are punishments due for the USA Gymnastics’ handling of the situation, which was the “sweep it under the rug” technique.

The U.S. Olympic committee continued this by doing the same thing.

So, to both institutions: karma is a (jerk).

On March 2, Raisman filed a lawsuit against both and rightfully so. Don’t be surprised if others follow.

Yet, USA Gymnastics and the U.S. Olympic committee aren’t the only ones affected.

Michigan State took their share of blows, as Nassar had a ripple effect throughout the university.

Their president quit, athletic director resigned and now Tom Izzo swallows his pride when he speaks to the media.

To the NCAA: why the lack of response? Supposedly, the organization knew in 2010, but did they do anything?

No. MSU finds is in a pickle now between this and the Miles Bridges’ mom incident. They are the NCAA’s number one priority yet also fear right now.

Plus, with March Madness currently underway, these controversies will only garner more attention and more discussion, but most notably a heightened amount of criticism.

In Michigan, we choose to see one side of this because most of us cheer on the Spartans or Wolverines.

But right now, we need to lie bias aside and see the truth. Yes, sexual assault has come to the world of sports but this is bigger than that.

Change is most effective when we combine as one. Unite for the gymnasts, for the others affected and ignite something.

Somebody - and you may know who this is - said “the pride comes before the fall”.

For all who were linked to Larry Nassar’s services, the fall has happened.

But the pride is non-existent.

SPORTS 17

GIRLS CHEER

Ryan Tongue THE BUCS’ BLADE

RECORD: Finished 7th in O-K Red HOW THEY FARED: This competitive

WRESTLING

Ryan Tongue THE BUCS’ BLADE

RECORD: Had two solo Division 1

state qualifiers (Guillen and Miller)

cheer season had its good and bad parts for the Lady Bucs, not letting their ranking define their team when it was all said and done. Throughout the journey, they most importantly learned a lot and became closer with one-another.

HOW THEY FARED: With senior Daniel

FUTURE LEADERS: With already an in-

FUTURE LEADERS: Current junior

QUICK QUOTE: “I really look forward to new members joining and to see old ones thrive even more next year,” Pipe said.

LOOKING AHEAD: Having Miller bring

BOYS SWIMMING

GIRLS BOWLING

creased leadership role this season, it will be current junior Adrianna Pipe at the team’s core next season, hoping to the bring them to new heights.

Lauren Morgan THE BUCS’ BLADE

RECORD: 10-3, 3rd in O-K Red HOW THEY FARED: For the Bucs boys

swim and dive team, they were persistent, staying tough and rising to the upper ranks of the O-K Red in February. They capped off their success at the state competition, where they placed 11th.

Guillen and junior Cody Miller making it to Ford Field for states and having the team as a whole winning a district title, the Bucs proved that hard work can lead to great success.

BOYS ICE HOCKEY

Cody Miller will be one of the team’s go-to wrestlers next season as he looks to help win another district championship and get a state qualification.

experience and others improving around him, watchout for the rising Bucs in the near future.

COURTESY PHOTO

RECORD: Finished 8th in O-K

Red team event; no state qualifiers

HOW THEY FARED: The Lady Bucs

bowling team progressed as the season went on, slowly improving each week, but they were not able to make any serious postseason noise in conference tournament play.

FUTURE LEADERS: With seniors Jordan DeVries and Grant Ruster graduating, current All-State juniors Eli Vandenbrand and Mark Wilgenburg, will lead the crew with skilled upcoming underclassmen right behind them.

FUTURE LEADERS: Having the junior

QUICK QUOTE: “We had an amazing season, one of the best in a while,” head coach Doug Thorne said.

LOOKING AHEAD: For the team, they

18 SPORTS

WINTER SPORTS REVIEW

combination of Abbie House and Kaleigh Batka coming back for their senior campaign will be crucial for the what the Lady Bucs could do next season.

do not lose a lot of their core bowlers, which the Lady Bucs can build around, creating new success.

Ryan Tongue THE BUCS’ BLADE

RECORD: 12-10-4 Overall; 7-1-2 in O-K Red Tier III HOW THEY FARED: This was one of the most successful years

in a while for the Bucs hockey team, topping it off with a well-deserved conference championship. Closing out the season with new-found leadership, determination and unity powered the boys to reach their goals and be known as one of the program’s top teams throughout history.

FUTURE LEADERS: Two of the Bucs’ first-line players, junior

Trevor Kalis and sophomore Cooper Fox, will be returning for redemption next season. Pairing their offensive skill with a strong defense that will be led by junior Jax Plumert, the expectations are sky-high for next year.

QUICK QUOTE: “We are going to work even harder next year and the team is already wanting to start working now,” head coach Keegan Ferris said.

March 29, 2018, www.bucsblade.com

An in-depth look on how each of the competitive Buccaneer winter sports teams closed out their seasons and the outlooks they hold for next year

BOYS BASKETBALL

BOYS BOWLING GIRLS BASKETBALL

Ryan Tongue THE BUCS’ BLADE

RECORD: Finished 4th in O-K

Red and sent two bowlers to state competition (Batka and Prokopec)

HOW THEY FARED: Individual

standouts like senior Logan Batka and freshman Collin Prokopec gave the group something to be proud of and aspire to. As a whole, there were big aspirations to match last year’s success and the Bucs just came up short.

FUTURE LEADERS: Already being a

state qualifier, freshman Collin Prokopec has potential to be one of the greats for this program.

HOW THEY FARED: If one looks at the Bucs boys basketball

season, they will see it was one defined by triumph and courage. Fighting through the loss of star point-guard junior Casey Constant was not easy and stalled the team’s run to a conference title. Yet, other players were able to develop their skills in light of that, improving for what’s to come.

HOW THEY FARED: The Lady Bucs

were forced to make early season adjustments with quick injuries to juniors Esther Byington and Kelly Olthof, both limiting the team’s success in the post. Yet, through the rough patch, the Lady Bucs gained strength and took down top opponents, finishing second in the O-K Red

FUTURE LEADERS: Junior Alli Keyser

is always one the team has relied on, but having nine players come back next year can be huge for postseason play.

QUICK QUOTE: “I’m proud of my players,” head coach Katie Kowalczyk-Fulmer said.

GIRLS SKIING

BOYS SKIING

COURTESY PHOTO

RECORD: 14-8 Overall; 8-5 O-K Red

RECORD: 14-8 Overall; 7-5 O-K Red

LOOKING AHEAD: Key seniors will be gone, but a fresh start might create new hopes.

Julia Drabczyk THE BUCS’ BLADE

Maddie Monroe THE BUCS’ BLADE

RECORD: One individual qualified

COURTESY PHOTO

RECORD: One individual qualified

for state competition; No team wins

for state competition; No team wins

junior Sarah Walker for the season was something big the team had to deal with, but courageous efforts from freshman Eden Nykamp and juniorcaptain Allison Vantrepott brought positivity to the team as a whole, leading to a solid campaign.

Lady Bucs’ ski season went, the boys team also had their high and low points throughout their journey. One of the team’s bright spots was the consistent success sophomore Mitchel Bosgraaf was able to maintain, reaching the state finals.

HOW THEY FARED: Without star-skier

HOW THEY FARED: Similar to how the

FUTURE LEADERS: Walker and

FUTURE LEADERS: Most of what the

nior campaign and junior Bryce Taylor improving each season, the Bucs have key core players back again to make another strong case for a conference title.

Vantrepott will both be back for their senior year and Nykamp has a lot of potential. A strong leadership unit for the team can result in big success.

QUICK QUOTE: “We’re excited about all the guys we have coming

LOOKING AHEAD: State qualifier Eden

QUICK QUOTE: “I think I’ll make [states] next year and hopefully some others will too,” Bosgraaf said.

FUTURE LEADERS: With Constant returning from injury for his se-

back,” head coach Greg Immink said. “They have all been working hard and preparing themselves. I am excited to see how they all will contribute.” www.bucsblade.com, March 29, 2018

Nykamp and Co. have proven the bar has been raised and expectations are high for the future.

Bucs are able to accomplish next season will be on how Bosgraaf performs. With his leadership, this team has the ability to improve rapidly.

SPORTS 19

A MARCH FOR OUR LIVES (LEFT): Over 100 people gathered in Central Park on Saturday, March 24, to participate in The March For Our Lives event, adding to 800 marches around the globe. Each person came with an attitude for change as they marched along Washington street shouting “Kids not guns! Enough is enough!” The event was planned by Heather and Peter Wilson as well as Grand Haven High School students Katie Pease and Jackson Schulte.

WE ARE THE CHANGE (BELOW): Those who attended had the opportunity to write on a large board painted with the words “We are the change”. They could write any thoughts, prayers or apologies they wanted on it with the hope of inspiring others to act. “Something needs to be changed, I don’t want to be scared to go to school or have to text my mom everyday telling her I love her because I’m constantly scared of a shooter,” student Valentine King said. “The shootings need to stop, and our gun laws right now aren’t going to make that happen.”

A MARCH FOR OUR LIVES Over 100 Grand Haven residents gathered in Central Park on Saturday, March 24 to protest for stricter gun control

By Maddie Monroe

20 PHOTOSTORY

STUDENTS FOR CHANGE (LEFT): Student organizer of the event Katie Pease speaks to the crowd before the march, giving a synopsis of the event along with words of encouragement for those who attended, “We are out here to enact change, we need something to change right now,” Pease said. “Hopefully in our community but also our government as a whole, our Congress needs to think about our lives before they think about objects. I also hope you all can see that this is not just the adults problem, this is for the students to solve too.”

CALL TO ACTION( LEFT): Marchers carried picketing signs urging others to act and showing their support for the students of Grand Haven and Parkland Florida. “I think these students have a real opportunity here, and that’s why there are over 800 rallies nationwide and I think that is a testament to what these kids can achieve,” Heather Wilson said. For these local kids in Grand Haven this is a pretty big deal, having a local community discuss national issues like this is really important because it is a local issue as well.” www.bucsblade.com, March 29, 2018