The Bucs' Blade February 2019: Human Trafficking

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Volume 74 Issue 4, bucsblade.com

GRAND HAVEN HIGH SCHOOL

Febuary 22, 2019

the

blade STAFF 74

EDITOR IN CHIEF Maddie Monroe Chris Hudson

NEWS EDITOR Caleb Berko

LIFE EDITOR Morgan Womack

ARTS EDITOR Sophia Jaeger

SPORTS EDITOR Jack Reus Sam Woiteshek

PHOTO EDITOR Carlos Rappleye

REPORTERS Mijan Ahmad Nizam Micayla Cramer Paige Horist Emily Jarrell Mercedes Mancilla Nick Rice Nicolas Twa Lexi Tater Ashton Voorhes Addelyn Wachter

Dear readers,

A WORD FROM YOUR EDITORS

Moving forward from the happiness of this winter season, with Valentine’s Day behind us, we take you into a more serious matter in this edition and it’s a big one: human trafficking.

Many of you might know what it is, some of you may have heard of it and the rest of you could have no idea how severely this crime has impacted the lives of thousands in West Michigan.

Behind this story we share to you, there was a process in writing it with the main aim to inform all of you of just how bad this problem is, going on without any awareness.

There were over 5,000 cases claimed as human trafficking in the last year, with 176 of those being reported in Michigan. However, many of these cases go unreported and unhelped - with the misconception that there is little chance of finding the victim.

It’s as almost law enforcement sometimes gives up on them by not bestowing their attention on the situation; letting the crime slip between the cracks.

And that’s the sad reality of human trafficking: most times, it goes unnoticed. Men, women and children suffer in silence as their bodies are used for the monetary gain of others.

So what can we do? As a high school student publication we may not have much impact; but you as the reader can have more of an impact than you may think. Throughout this month’s in-depth we discuss multiple resources for those in need of help or how to help. If you would like to provide a helping hand to those struggling, those resources are there.

By reading and understanding this issue’s importance, you will help to dissolve stereotypes about human trafficking and spread the message of why this is such a big problem.

People from all walks of life have been affected by human trafficking and if you look around, the number of people who have is probably more than you would expect. It’s the sad truth of today.

But, as said earlier, just by listening to the story in this issue, we believe that as a student body and more importantly, a community, we can do better to care for those who have gone through the pain we haven’t shed enough light on.

In conclusion, we hope you enjoy this issue and take a moment to reflect on its more serious subject, and hopefully gain something from it.

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

OPINION 3. Snow days

help our success

4. Air Force opinion 5. Top five CBK games

NEWS 6. BOSS cook-off 7. Snow days cause chaos 8. GHHS got talent

IN-DEPTH 9-13. Human trafficking story; the impact today for Grand Haven

ARTS 14. Mr. Moore profile 15. “Dumplin’ ” review 16. Three impactful shows to binge

LIFE 17. Klinger profile

18-19. Blacksmith Noah

Thank you for reading,

SPORTS The Bucs’ Blade

Maddie Monroe CO-EDITOR IN CHIEF

CONTENTS

Chris Hudson CO-EDITOR IN CHIEF

@Bucsblade @thebucsblade

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.

20-21. Sports update 22. Eveland profile 23. Diving deep profile and column

PHOTO 24. Grand Haven’s East side district February 22, 2019, www.bucsblade.com

SNOW DAYS CURE MID-WINTER BLUES After three weeks featuring eleven days off, students return fresh into the new semester

A

6

Allotted snow days by state government

180

Minimum amount of school days required

ny of us can agree that the “snowpocalypse” was something historic. Snow days were called at a rate that has not been seen in decades.

However, an occurrence this unprecedented was warmly welcomed by the student body.

Coming right after exams and at the start of the second semester, the timing was ideal. It can be hard for some to keep the internal drive high during these harsh winter months where seeing the sun is almost a miracle.

So, having that ‘surprise’ break was a solid reset period. Especially for the long haul ahead of us.

The time between winter break and spring break is dreaded for most, and it’s the longest stretch we face with no extended break. Students, parents and educators all know it. It is a stressful, exhausting period that often feels like every step we take into getting things done, we’re nailed ten more assignments to worry about.

And over time it can become difficult to handle all the pressure when trapped in these “hell months”, where there’s seemingly no light at the end of the tunnel, a sense of helplessness.

Seasonal depression has become a more discussed topic, with students struggling to cope through these soul-sucking months of winter, mental health is something everyone is always chatting about, but what do we actually ever do about it?

Yes, there are services and organizations dedicated to helping people with mental illnesses, but nothing quite relieves some mental stress like a few unexpected days away from school and work.

Thankfully, we had these past two weeks of snow days that gave us some quality time for well needed rest and relaxation. The roads were horrible and we could hardly walk across the street without slipping, but if nothing else we got to enjoy some downtime, which is hard to come by these days.

By having the ability to figuratively breathe during the snow days, it allowed us to catch up on sleep debt from exam week, as well as new classwork and extra time for our hobbies.

Jan. 7

Last full week of school

11

Snow days this year

STAFF EDITORIAL Support 8-0

In lieu of going through the awkward first weeks of a new semester, we instead got to rest up and take a break from the stressors of school for a while. Superintendent Andrew Ingall inadvertently provided us with a much needed mid-winter break, making the long haul between January and April a bit more bearable.

Yes, we understand school is a necessary part of our lives. Recently, the Grand Haven Tribune wrote about “cheating student’s education”, but we don’t feel cheated. Oftentimes the most important things you learn in life are not found in an Honors Algebra 2 textbook, or while sitting through a history lecture.

They are found in the ability to slow down from the “track meet” of life, and appreciate the small moments you spend with friends and family, while battling the bitter cold of mother nature’s polar vortex.

So, it is in that spirit that we feel we do not need to go the extra days into summer. We have shown that we can handle the workload through the depths of winter. Why do we need to prove that in the summer, when that is set time off for us to earn money, relax and do what we want?

www.bucsblade.com, February 22, 2019

EDITORIAL 3

FIGHT OR FLIGHT; WHY NOT BOTH?

When deciding a path after high school, there’s always the option of going up - literally

I

f I asked you to pick out anyone at the high school that was going into the Air Force, the last person you would pick would be the girl who weighs 98 lbs, doesn’t play sports and doesn’t leave the house without intricately blended eye makeup.

But here I am, talking with West Michigan’s Air Force recruiter, Nicholas Burtch, about my future in the service.

The Air Force wasn’t my cup of tea until this summer when I made the decision that I wanted to be a pilot.

My head was in the gutter and I thought that the Air Force consisted of two things: pilots and middle-aged men sitting at computers all day telling the Opinion pilots what to do.

Mercedes Mancilla My mother sure wasn’t for me going into the military and that’s the main reason why I let my dream die originally. But now as I’ve grown and matured, that dream has slowly crept upon me once more - due to the terrifying reality of adulthood.

I would be lying if I said this wasn’t a by-product of spite towards my parents and society’s expectations of me. Let’s be honest here, a girl like me should be going off to college to study interior design or some artsy sh*t that people expect me to supplement my love for the arts with. And I don’t blame anyone for thinking that either. I thought that was what I wanted too.

But I want, no I need more than that.

Not to diss college, but college sucks. The idea of paying to learn something that will get me a mediocre job with mediocre wages and ultimately contribute to an unfulfilling life is straight up depressing. Who wants to pay to learn and then be in debt for the next few decades? Nobody.

So I decided that I would do everything in my power to not go to college and be in debt. I was then left with three options, trade school, the military or work at Jumpin’ Java for the rest of my life barely living off minimum wage.

Now back to the pilot dream that died as soon as I started my research into the Air Force. Piloting an airplane not only takes skill, memorization, and confidence it also takes the guts to dial back your morals.

Pilots need to dial back their morals so much that they are okay with the fact that they could possibly be responsible for and possibly passively murder dozens of innocent civilians to destroy the threat of a single terrorist or a hidden weapon stash.

To be honest I don’t think I could sleep with that on my conscience. You may be thinking that being in the field and shooting someone is no different, but these two things are ten miles apart.

Think about it, someone in the battlefield is there for a reason. They are most likely there because they want to. They are also most likely trying to kill you, which in my mind cancels out the idea of: “I’m not going to kill somebody if I don’t have

4 OPINION

to,” because you most definitely have to kill this person if you want to see the next day.

Enough rambling though, back to my reasons. It’s hard to say what attracted me to the Air Force specifically. In sixth grade or so I had wanted to join the Marines because a.) My dad was a Marine and b.) It was just so cool to little me.

Everyone likes to think that they are going to be the bada** main character in their own story. Whether it’s the apocalypse or being suddenly drafted into the war, you always see yourself as some valiant hero who is invincible.

In the end, we are not the main character of some dystopian novel or movie. And I know for a fact that I will not be the character that I think I would be.

So with my senses in the right place and my ideals in check, the question still remains: why am I joining the Air Force?

It’s hard to explain because it’s so much more than just a simple single reason. Like I said earlier: it’s kind of out of spite, but that’d be a horrendously stupid reason to risk my life.

and prove to myself that I am in fact capable of doing the things that I gave up on as a child.

So here I am, making a decision which will dictate and control the entirety of the next chapter in my life. And I don’t think I could be more scared, excited, and liberated about any other option.

WOMEN IN THE ARMED FORCES (Data from Council on Foreign Relations) 2016 Active Female Representation, by Service

◦Army Officers: 18% women ◦Enlisted (Army): 14% women ◦Navy Officers: 18% women ◦Enlisted (Navy): 19% women ◦Marine Officers: 7.5% women ◦Enlisted (Marine): 8% women ◦Air Force Officers: 21% women ◦Enlisted (Air Force): 19% women 2016 Ethnicity of Enlisted Women, by Service

◦Army Women Recruits

U.S. AIR FORCE The main reason people join the military is to serve their country and be a proud American. I could care less about that.

Sure the idea is cool and all, but that definitely doesn’t play any role in my decision whatsoever.

I’m honestly not even sure if I can explain exactly why I want to join. Part of me is terrified of joining and the other part thrives off that fear. I guess I want to conquer my fears

◦42% women of Caucasian descent ◦40% women of African-American descent ◦Around 3% women of Asian descent ◦15% women of Hispanic descent

◦Navy Women Recruits

◦52% women of Caucasian descent ◦23% women of African-American descent ◦Around 2% women of Asian descent ◦23% women of Hispanic descent

◦Marines Women Recruits

◦63% women of Caucasian descent ◦13% women of African-American descent ◦Around 2% women of Asian descent ◦22% women of Hispanic descent

◦Air Force Women Recruits

◦47% women of Caucasian descent ◦29% women of African-American descent ◦Around 3% women of Asian descent ◦21% women of Hispanic descent February 22, 2019, www.bucsblade.com

COLLEGE BASKETBALL SEASON MORE IMPORTANT THAN YOU THINK February has arrived. The football season is over with the conclusion of the Super Bowl and college football finished in January. What else is there to watch?

There’s college basketball, and it’s one of the most exciting things on TV right now.

Perennial powers such as Duke continue their reign with a variety of first round picks. They now hold the number Opinion one spot after surprise team Tennessee Nick Twa has dropped in the polls.

But how much of this actually matters? March Madness is next TOP CONTENDERS month. Should we just throw all of the regular season away?

IN COLLEGE To answer this question, let us BASKETBALL THIS find a college sport to compare to college basketball. Take college football for example. There are DUKE BLUE DEVILS twelve games in a college football Fantastic three: Zion regular season. One loss to a meWilliamson, R.J. Barrett, diocre team could derail your playand Cam Reddish form about as formidable off hopes permanently to be one trio as there is in college of the four teams. basketball. Impressively, In college basketball, there are twenty-seven games in a regular they’re all freshman. season, leaving a couple forgivable errors that can be made.

KENTUCKY WILDCATS Sixty-eight teams make it into the Cats on fire: The WildNCAA tournament, so there’s cats recently got a more breathing room for teams.

17-point win over the This might mean that their previous number one schedules are not comparable to team in the nation, college football. But if some teams Tennessee. But can the don’t do well enough to win their Wildcats keep it up for conference, then they don’t win the rest of the season? get the automatic bid into the tournament. Therefore, there regular GONZAGA BULLDOGS season gains a higher level of imImported talent: Star portance for those teams. player Rui Hachimura Sometimes, teams in the powlived in Japan before er five conferences can lose ten averaging 20 points a games or more and still make the game for the Bulldogs. big bracket in March. It all depends on who you lose to in the end.

TENNESSEE VOLS Nobody wants to see their The winning difference: The Volunteers have team lose in the tournament. It’s strong upperclassmen less possible when they have a like Admiral Schofield great regular season record. and Jordan Bone that So yes, the regular season matprovide vital experience ters in college basketball. Teams on top of their talent. want to have the best record so they can have favorable seeding.

Messing up too many times is not an option in any sport. But in college basketball, it carries the same weight.

Fans are right to intensely root for their teams to win. They know that any win matters and that any loss can change the course of the season.

But not everyone knows what all goes into process of selecting teams for the tournament.

It all starts with the team’s record. If it has zero to ten losses, it’s looking good to make it into March Madness. If they have 11 or more losses, then they’re most likely to be on the “bubble”. That means they’re on the verge of making it but there are other squads with better resumes that will make it in over them.

The bubble is something that teams want to avoid. It’s the 50/50 shot that they could make it into the or completely miss out.

The regular season is crucial. It doesn’t just determine the team’s overall record for the season. It means the right to mark that season as one for the history books. www.bucsblade.com, February 22, 2019

TOP MATCHUPS IN COLLEGE BASKETBALL THIS SEASON

VS 72

JAN. 19

70

This was one of the most hyped college basketball games this year. Zion Williamson and number one ranked Blue Devil crew got the chance to defend their rank against number four Virginia at home. The game featured a Zion Williamson dunk over another player as he got fouled, and a high intensity ending that saw Duke as the winners.

VS 69

FEB. 12

71

When Duke came to Louisville for a clash with the Cardinals, they were ranked number two. By all means, Duke was favored to take charge of the game. But Louisville stormed out to a 23 point lead. After Coach K said that his team was “playing like losers”, they stormed back and left the KFC Yum Center with an astonishing comeback win.

VS 61

FEB. 11

69

In the biggest showdown in the ACC that doesn’t include a team named “Duke”, the Cavaliers traveled to North Carolina to take on the Tar Heels. Virginia was ranked fourth and North Carolina was ranked eighth, and the game lived up to the hype. There was back and forth scoring and a happy ending for Virginia away from home.

VS 80

FEB. 10

79

On paper, this game seems like a run of the mill conference game. But Northwestern rolled into Iowa City and gave the Hawkeyes a test. Northwestern was leading by eight with a minute and a half left. But about a minute later, a missed Northwestern free throw and a Jordan Bohannon three pointer saw Iowa win a tight game.

VS 71

FEB. 12

73

Out of all of the games in college basketball this season, this one may have the most controversy around it due to the ending. Kentucky was ranked fifth and LSU was nineteenth, so it wasn’t that big of a surprise that the game was down to the wire. But LSU’s crazy buzzer beater tip in was still on the rim, and should have been disallowed.

OPINION 5

Jazz band gearing up for BOSS cookoff

By Emma Manzo

WHAT’S THE STORY?

The band is hosting its annual Swing Dance event on Feb. 23 at St. Patrick - St. Anthony Catholic Parish Church from 6:30-8:30 p.m. The band will play two 45-minute sets with 18 tunes in the lineup while a couple dozen members of the Buccaneer Original Swing Society (BOSS) perform.

WHY PARTICIPATE?

For an admission fee of $5 you can come support the band and enjoy a night of refreshments, dancing and good music. Everyone is welcome to attend.

THEY SAID IT:

“It’s a nice way to get out on a cold February Saturday,” band director Iain Novoselich said.

“It’s a way to get out in the community and perform for people that might not otherwise come down to the high school to see us.”

WHY THIS EVENT?

Originating about eight years ago, with a student named Brendan Merriman, the Swing Dance has continued to be a popular event.

Caleb Berko THE BUCS’ BLADE

Noto’s makes a splash on the Lakeshore in former Bil-Mar spot Last Sunday, Noto’s Old World Italian restaurant made it’s long overdue grand-opening in Grand Haven. As it moves into the Bil-Mar location right on the water, it will be formally known as ‘Noto’s at the Bil-Mar’.

Originally, the intention was to be open by at least late spring of 2018.

But, the Noto family decided to tear down the previous foundation, or lack thereof (due to the facility being built on sand) and start anew.

“We were three months in before we decided to tear it all down,” said coowner Tony Noto in an interview with

SAVE the

DATE

6 NEWS

MLive. “It [was] kind of like an onion - we kept peeling back and peeling back looking for something good. There wasn’t anything worth saving.”

By taking the extra time to remodel, people will see a new type of restaurant for Grand Haven: one that is right on the beach, dominated by it’s open-glass concept and large balcony that can function as a premier event venue.

Yet, Noto’s will contrast that elegance with a beach-infused menu sticking to the simple, easy-going roots of Grand Haven.

Many Grand Haven High School

Every Sunday

5:30-7:30 p.m.

Guys rugby players are needed. Meet at White Pines Intermediate to learn more about the game, and meet some of the coaches for this year

students will be working for the new beachside dining hub and are excited to join the Noto’s restaurant family.

“I can’t wait to begin working,” senior Abby Buitenhuis said. “It’s a change from where I used to work and the change will be cool to see.”

--Chris Hudson

February 22-23 Death of A Hot Sauce Salesman 6:00 p.m.

Dinner theatre featuring a chili cook off and Southwest-themed dinner. Tickets available at Seat Yourself

Calling all Colors to host

“Be the Change” an even aimed at putting emphasis on empowering youth and giving them tools tot change their community

March 13-14 March 1

Due date for seniors to submit their GHACF scholarship applications.

If you would like more information on these scholarships and more others, stop into student services.

June 22-29, 2020 Belize Trip Visit www.explorica.com/ striegle-5509 for more information. Mr. Striegle & Mrs. Portenga are planning the trip.

February 22, 2019, www.bucsblade.com

Snow days causing

CHAOS Maddie Monroe THE BUCS’ BLADE SNOW DAY ANGELS: So many snow days have students beginning to wonder if they should be studying during their time off or if they should be enjoying the time away from the classroom. Many found during the “snow-pocalypse” that a healthy balance of both was necessary to getting through the break.

T

he number of snow days this semester has been unpredictable, but the plethora of days away does not come without consequence.

Each year the state allots six days to districts for weather related days off with the potential for three more. However, we have had 11 days off this semester.

People ask if Grand Haven Area Public Schools (GHAPS) will add extra days to the calendar in June to make up for some of this time, others wonder if minutes will be added to each day like GHAPS did during the 2012-13 school year.

According to GHAPS Superintendent Andrew Ingall there is a high probability GHAPS will seek to add days.

“We’re going to try not to make a decision too quick or too fast,” Ingall said. “Certainly by spring break we can make a decision and do an announcement on what requirements we’ll have in terms of possible make-up days.”

One question that needs to be answered is whether or not the Michigan legislature will grant forgiveness for additional days beyond the nine alwww.bucsblade.com, February 22, 2019

With over two weeks of unexpected snow days this semester, teachers and administrators are scrambling to catch up with the curriculum

By Caleb Berko

ready provided. On Jan. 29, Governor Gretchen with those who are teaching the same curriculum,” Whitmer declared a state of emergency citing “ex- Wilson said. “I’m encouraging teachers to hang tremely cold weather” and “record or near-record onto those pieces that are critical and essential, and low temperatures”. However, even though there any of that extra stuff, unfortunately, probably will was a state of emergenbe let go of.” cy declared, schools are If the district does FOR YOUR INFORMATION: not necessarily awarded decide to add days those days as extra for back to the calendar forgiveness. of course it would be 1. GHAPS has had ten snow One thing that is easier on teachers to certain is the fact that accomplish more curdays this semester, with one the snow days are forcriculum, but the famiback in November ing just about everylies of GHAPS will body to change plans. most likely be waiting 2. The Michigan legislature Change to the curricuuntil spring break for is introducing bills to polum taught throughout that answer. the district. Principal Science teacher tentially allow extra days of Tracy Wilson said Daniel Newton plans forgiveness for snow days teachers are creating his curriculum for his their own plans for getchemistry classes with ting through the curco teacher Chelsea riculum.

Bender, and has said they’ve already made a plan “My communication to our staff, in general, for adapting. has been to have some collaborative conversations “We’re looking for things that took us multiple

days last year, and trying to condense,” Newton said. “These kinds of cuts are going to have to happen if we want to be able to get as far as we were hoping, but as educators, we do have to make these choices of what’s key and really important, and what would be okay if we didn’t get to.

While more days in June would relieve stress on some teachers, there are still others who would not benefit from those days. AP teachers have their tests on May 6-16, and those dates are non-negotiable because they are set by the College Board.

AP English Language and Composition teacher Holly Michelli admitted she is feeling a bit more stress as of late having lost 11 days she cannot get back for her advanced classes.

She added that because students enrolled in AP classes are most likely the advanced students, they’re just going to have to work outside of the class more often on some of their work and/or projects.

“We won’t be able to include some of those let’s say fun things,” Michelli said. “Shortening some of our big projects and units is what we’re going to have to do up through the AP test.”

NEWS 7

GH got

By Emily Jarrell STRUMMING ALONG: Sophomore Miriam Deyoung was one of two young talented students who performed an original song. She sang and played her own music titled “Make It Better”.

The other student who performed their own original work was sophomore Paige Horist who played the piano and sang a song titled “Steele”.

FIRST PLACE YO-YO-IST: Freshman Gavin Hubner showed off his yo-yo abilities that he’s been perfecting for close to three years. “[Winning] shows, to me, that my time practicing is paying off, so it’s good to know that it’s not going to waste,” Hubner said.

W

ho needs to visit Broadway when Grand Haven High School has plenty of talent right here at home.

On Monday, Feb. 11 Grand Haven High School had its annual talent show.

There was endless talent that was shared on the stage that night. The audience saw many talents including dancing, singing, piano playing, flute

playing, and yo-yo-ing. The crowd was at the edge of their seats ready to stand up and applaud when they saw something special onstage.

At the end of the night, there was a first, second, and third place winner. The first place winner goes on to represent Grand Haven in the West Michigan Student Showcase held in Muskegon where they will go and duke it out for first place.

Gavin Hubner, the yo-yo-ist, took home first prize and will go on to the West Michigan Student Showcase. The second place winner was junior, Anna Bremmer and she sang outstandingly. The third place winner was Kendall Jeisy as she played and sang an original song.

At the end of the talent show, the audience saw the return of fan favorites, The Flannel Boys.

NEVER ENOUGH: Junior Anna Bremmer performed a breath-taking rendition of “Never Enough” from the “Greatest Showman” soundtrack earning herself second place for GHHS. Only one student can move on from GH, so she will not be continuing.

The band had lost its beloved Deputy Devries. But fear not as the band also gained more members from the staff here at Grand Haven. These members include Ben Lawrence, Rory Callander, Aaron Portenga, Dustin Stoner, and Benjamin Rodgers It’s safe to say that everyone enjoyed themselves during the production.

OPENING JANUARY 2019: ICEBOUND: THE ORDEAL OF THE SS MICHIGAN

Tri-Cities Historical Museum provides a full calendar of family fun each year!

To become a museum member or to find out more about our programs, exhibits, and events, please visit our website at www.tri-citiesmuseum.org.

WINTER HOURS

8 NEWS

TUES - FRI 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

SAT & SUN- 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM

February 22, 2019, www.bucsblade.com

HUMAN TRAFFICKING Even here in West Michigan, the growing epidemic of sex trafficking has a big impact

By Maddie Monroe, Morgan Womack and Sophia Jaeger As the streets of downtown Grand Haven become illuminated by the dazzling lights of the carnival, a young Leslie King steps onto one of the many yachts lining the dark waters of the Grand River. People travel miles to come and enjoy the Coast Guard Festival.

King traveled just around an hour for a completely different reason.

Illustration by Maddie Monroe www.bucsblade.com, Febuary 22, 2019

KEEP READING ON PAGE 10

IN-DEPTH 9

Illustration by Maddie Monroe

Human trafficking is a growing problem, but many may not realize how big an issue it is

F

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9

ew noticed King as she stepped onto the boat, those who did were probably unaware that she was a victim, that she got onto that boat for the sole purpose of her body being sold.

King was being trafficked.

Human trafficking happens here in west michigan everyday with many not even realising it. Many people in tough situations are taken advantage of and end up being exploited by people they believed they could trust.

This is one of the many problems with sex trafficking, it goes unnoticed.

Human trafficking is modern day slavery. It is the profiting

10 IN-DEPTH

or selling of another human being through force, fraud, or coercion.

If the individual is under the age of 18 it is considered trafficking any time someone is profiting off the sale of their body.

King was only 15 years old the first time she was trafficked.

She grew up in a broken home in Grand Rapids with an abusive family, making her an easy target for traffickers.

After years of abuse and neglect, King attempted suicide but survived.

“Women like me from the streets if Johns don’t kill us, pimps don’t kill us or we don’t die of overdose, we kill ourselves,” King said in the short film “When Angels Fight”

King is not alone. In 2018 over 5,000 cases were reported to the Human Trafficking Hotline. Of those, 176 took place in Michigan with many more cases going unreported.

These cases are hard for law enforcement to identify because people perceive victims of trafficking are prostituting themselves by their own free will.

That’s one of the reasons many cases go unreported.

“No little girl wakes up and says, ‘I’m gonna be a drug addict and a prostitute,’” King said. “[We have to look at] what happened. What happened to her? What drove her to this?”

KEEP READING ON PAGE 11 Febuary 22, 2019, www.bucsblade.com

500 teens have been trafficked for sex or work (Estimated among the population of 13-18 year-olds in Ottawa County. According to the Ottawa County Youth Assessment Survey)

SIGNS TO LOOK FOR: •A minor having sex for housing, money, drugs or something else of value

•Untreated medical

•Forced to have sex for something

conditions

of value

•Threats of deportation

•No control of identification

•Defers to someone else

documents or money

to answer questions

•Inadequate or unusual

•Doing a job other than

sleeping arrangements

what they agreed to

•Not paid at all or well

•Confused or disoriented

underpaid for labor

•Branding marks or tattoos

or services

Illustration by Maddie Monroe

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 10

Most people find themselves being trafficked when someone takes advantage of their vulnerability. Traffickers target those with obvious insecurities and use them against them.

They make them feel wanted and seen only to then force them into a life of prostitution.

When King was being trafficked, it felt like there was no hope for her. There wasn’t any place to go or anyone to believe her.

The growth of human trafficking has become a major problem, not only in Michigan but all over the country. With many people not admitting that it is a big issue.

As human trafficking is becoming more widely recognized in West Michigan, nonprofits have formed to help educate the community on the issue and help those who have been trafficked.

An organization called The Hope Project was founded in 2006 by Jeff and Sue Martineau. Since its founding it has helped survivors of human trafficking rebuild their lives. www.bucsblade.com, Febuary 22, 2019

“We offer services through the Hope Project to - literally our mission statement - support the healing of girls and women who survive trafficking and we do everything we can to prevent further cases through mentoring and education,” Mary Suarez, Lead Ambassador of the Hope Project said.

The project works with female survivors of sex trafficking to identify their needs. They help with legal services, sponsor counseling, provide basic necessities, safe places to stay and transportation as well as referring survivors to other resources that may be able to further the healing process.

“It just varies with each person that we have,” Sara Johnson, Director of Programming at the Hope Project said. “I have some clients that they’re able to come in and they’ll need more attention, you know, they just need more support than others, some might just need a resource or a referral.”

For survivors, one of their biggest battles is finding people who believe their story.

“They have never been validated, people have told them that their story is not true,” Johnson, said. “When they come see me and I tell them, ‘I believe you,’ it empowers them to be

like, ‘Oh my gosh, this did happen to me, and then I can move forward in my healing because it has to be acknowledged.’”

The Hope Project pairs with two Christian therapists and sponsors therapy for survivors who don’t have access to it. It’s important for survivors to be able to tell their stories in a safe setting like therapy. “[My role at the Hope Project is] just really being that caring ear, that lets them know that healing can be possible,” Johnson said. “Giving them a voice to be able to share and them realizing that they’re not alone and connecting them to different resources [is part of my job].”

They recently formed a new program where survivors meet in a group to work on projects, listen to speakers, but most importantly build connections with each other.

“They realize that they’re not alone,” Johnson said. “So many of them come to us thinking that they’re the only person that this has happened to and seeing others that have gone through it all, it just empowers them and it makes them feel like they’re not crazy.”

KEEP READING ON PAGE 12

IN-DEPTH 11

LAW STRUGGLES WITH HUMAN TRAFFICKING CASES

12 IN-DEPTH

CHARGE?

Human Trafficking violation (first offense)

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 11 These survivors are facing similar struggles in everyday life as a result of being trafficked. Most do not have access to basic necessities.

The Hope Project created a pantry called Hope’s Closet where survivors can access personal hygiene products, clothing and other necessary items.

“With our hygiene pantry that we have here, I had one woman come in, and she said how she was so happy to get all the stuff that we were able to give her because she would have been prostituting for all that stuff if we wouldn’t have been able to provide it for her,” Johnson said. “She said … ‘I would have to go out on the streets and trick for all of this.’ And so for that time, she didn’t have to do that.”

“Trafficking is not what it looks like on social media,” Suarez said. “There is no one … that is being kidnapped from the parking lot of Walmart. No one is stalking your children in Meijer. That’s not how trafficking is happening in our community.”

In many instances, human trafficking happens when a person is in a vulnerable scenario where it is easy for someone they know to take advantage of them.

“It’s not like you snatch a girl off a bus and put her in the human trafficking world,” Lieutenant Kristen Rogers said. “These are girls who have grown up in just terrible homes, they are runaways or have been sexually abused and usually they are teenagers.”

Seven years ago Rogers began working as a sergeant in a family service team for the Grand Rapids Police Department. One of this teams jobs was to investigate juveniles who were involved with prostitution. Shortly after. Rogers began working for this team was also when training for human trafficking cases began as law enforcement realized the complexity of these cases.

“One of the problems with these cases is that often times, these women don’t see themselves as victims,” Rogers said. “A lot of these women were sexually abused as children, they grew up in horrific homes and so many of them say ‘Hey I have control over my body now, I get to say who has sex with me and when, so I am not a victim’ So these cases are extremely difficult. We spend hours and hours just trying to convince them that they are a victim.”

Since Rogers has dealt with these cases for many years she has seen the complexity of them, but also the terrible nature of them.

“We had two girls come in, one was 16 the other was 17,” Rogers said.

“They had lived together at a facility for human trafficking and they ran away from that facility. Within 24 hours both girls had had over 20 partners.”

With the rising awareness of human trafficking, many police departments have increased training for the problem, but many still do not have the resources to take on these cases.

“We do the best we can, the hardest thing is keeping these women alive, sober and near the area long enough to even start a case,” Rogers said. “We do have a human trafficking task force with the FBI which has a lot more resources and manpower, but the police department itself cannot deal with all these cases.”

As for King, she had use her own determination to escape trafficking. She used that same perseverance to help other survivors, founding a nonprofit in 2005 called Sacred Beginnings that provides support and services for anyone in a similar situation.

King’s organization is successful because she is able to use her own experience with human trafficking to relate to these people and also raise awareness in her own community.

“It is easy to point a finger at someone than to admit society has failed, that’s why a lot of the time people don’t want to believe that it’s here,” King said. “But it’s always been here, you just haven’t seen it, people think it only happens in certain parts of town but it is everywhere. These women are somebody’s sisters, mothers, aunts, granddaughters, they are human beings.”

What’s the

Human Trafficking violation resulting in bodily injury Human Trafficking violation resulting in serious bodily injury

Morgan Womack THE BUCS’ BLADE

Morgan Womack THE BUCS’ BLADE

HOW BAD CAN IT BE?

TERMS YOU SHOULD KNOW:

Taken by the Ottawa County Youth Assessment Survey

I have been forced to do something for someone who got paid for what I did

4359 4350

38 62

17 24

21 37

10 years

In prison

Up to

15 years

In prison

Up to

20 years

In prison

Up to

LIFE

In prison

I WILL SURVIVE: Mary Suarez poses in front of art in the therapy room at the Hope Project, which was made by a survivor.

ALL TOGETHER: A bookshelf in the therapy room at the Hope Project. On the top sits a photo of survivors’ hands showing off the bracelets they made at the survivor retreat.

I have been given something (money, food, a place to live) in exchange for sex

Human Trafficking violation involving death

Up to

8 19

Febuary 22, 2019, www.bucsblade.com

11

19

19 www.bucsblade.com, Febuary 22, 2019

BRANDING- A tattoo or carving on a victim that indicates ownership by a trafficker or pimp BROTHEL- An establishment where sex is sold CIRCUIT- A series of cities where trafficked people are moved from one to the other JOHN- An individual who pays or trades something of value for a sexual act PIMP- Someone who controls trafficked people and arranges clients for them, taking a part of the earnings.

Obtaining a minor for sexual activity or labor

Transporting or recruiting a minor for sexual activity or labor

Up to

20 years

In prison

Up to

20 years

In prison

IN-DEPTH 13

Mercedes Mancilla THE BUCS’ BLADE

STILL LIVES Hannah Lond works on a still life assignment in drawing one. This assignment had groups of students working with all types of objects to create realistic charcoal.

SHADING Jaimie Snowleet is a student in Mr Moores drawing 1 class (right) , She is drawing a wolf skull, a water bottle, a vase, and a toy chicken leg.

The odd mixture of objects “{is} an interesting subject matter, but I’m enjoying it.�

Kyle Bush THE BUCS� BLADE

Mercedes Mancilla THE BUCS’ BLADE

Moore than just an art teacher New staff member uses his own creativity to design games and inspire others

By Emily Jarrell “Mr. Moore, can you help me with this?� yells freshman Tina Reyes.

Mitch Moore crosses the room with easy strides. Moore picks up one of the chisels on the table with his bright pink hands. He exhales and the chisel digs into the surface of the linoleum block. His eyes are sharp and steady. The chisel becomes an extension of his hand. It fits into his hand perfectly like a lost puzzle piece.

The tools slides across the surface as if it is covered in butter.

The linoleum coils in piles around the deep scrapes around the tiles.

The picture starts to take form. But then Moore stops and hands his student the chisel and gives her more pointers.

Moore is the new art teacher at Grand Haven High School.

Moore taught art at an elementary school in West Ottawa before transferring here. “When I’m doing art I don’t really feel much of anything,� Moore said. “I’m super engaged and so engaged that I’m just thinking about what I’m doing. There’s no emotional context to it. Now, there are times when things don’t go right. And it’s frustrating, I suppose. But it’s also really exciting when you fix that area that’s frustrating.�

Moore uses his experiences in life to create messages in his artwork. Moore’s art has been known for its political standpoints. Every little detail in his work is thought out to carefully get his message across to the viewer. Moore likes to draw stuff that is more politically focus and an example of this is his drawing, American in Paris. “The theme of it is really ridiculous,� Moore said. “It’s me wearing like a fake handlebar mustache, beret, and a striped shirt. I’ve got my pinky out, and I got this glass bottle. There’s a gondola behind me in a place that’s clearly not Paris, but it’s approaching appropriating other cultures and being like, ‘Oh, yeah, that’s where they have the

14 ARTS

gondolas and stuff, right?’ Even though Paris doesn’t. but, you know, Americans can be so unaware of the world outside of where we live.

It’s a commentary on that.�

But this piece of art portrays the message and other people who have looked at it can tell what is going on. Irene Sipe another art teacher at Grand Haven High school praises his thoughtfulness and his new approaches to teaching. “The self-portrait of him in France stuck with me,� said Sipe. “With the high contrast, the craftsmanship of the drawing, and aesthetic of it but then to have that story behind it. When I was sitting there when he brought it in during our interview I remember thinking I wanted to know more about it. When he started describing it out I was like ‘Oh yeah you’re right it’s not quite accurate in the terms of the background of it.’ I liked that approach.�

The political cartoons are not the only thing that Moore thinks out to the smallest detail. Moore is also a game designer and has worked on free games online. Moore is currently working on two card games that he is designing on his computer. He hopes to one day release his card games. “I’m also a game designer. So I have two card games that I’m making and tabletop role-playing game,� said Moore. “ I’m currently working on a ground-up system that I’ve made. And the world is a collaboration with a friend of mine. She’s more of a writer than I am.

So I’m more of the ideas person, I guess. We think about this place things that are happening. It’s like a post-apocalyptic science fantasy world.�

Between the political drawings and his game designing Moore believes that art teaches us some very important things that we can take with us throughout life. He believes it makes us plan and work

through our problems which makes art useful. “Problem-solving is something that gets me excited,� Moore said. “It’s like, ‘oh, this didn’t work out like I was expecting it to.’ then I need to think about it and what I can do to alter this. Or find a way to do something else with it like to change things. It’s one thing to teach theories, for example, this is how you mix colors. It’s another thing to actually do that. Art is where we get to do that. So that’s why it’s super important. Because we’re not just learning we’re also learning through doing and then we can show what we’ve learned.�

 ­ € ‚

 � � �� � ƒ ­ „

­ ­ www.bucsblade.com, February 22, 2019

Body positive message from Netflix Original film “Dumplin’”

Romance, fantasy and adventure in one riveting novel

“A Court of Thorns and Roses”

By Sophia Jaeger

By Sophia Jaeger Many movies today are promoted under the guise of body positivity only to be the exact opposite. So I have to be honest when I say I was skeptical of new Netflix film “Dumplin’”.

At first glance, it seemed like a cliché transformation story waiting to happen. The premise of a heavyweight girl trying to make a point to her pageant obsessed mom by joining the pageant is one we usually see end with weight loss, a boy that now thinks she’s pretty and of course, acceptance.

But “Dumplin” was not that kind of story, no, it was something more, something better. Because while Willowdean does join the pageant to get her mothers attention she doesn’t change who she is to fit in with all the pageant girls, instead she stays who she is and most importantly doesn’t care what others think.

Not only does Willowdean remain true to herself throughout the movie her love interest is crushing on her the whole time.

This was refreshing, since other movies where the “ugly girl” gets the guy it’s because of cat fishing or because she has gone through a beautiful transformation.

Honestly the body positive message alone would have had me head over heels for this movie, but it’s not the only thing that has me obsessed. I am going crazy about this movie because it wasn’t really about body positivity as much as it was about acceptance and growth.

Willowdean and her mom never made an effort to understand each other and Willowdeans aunt was always the one Willowdean looked to. But after her death they are forced to confront the problems with their relationship and they learn to listen and accept each other annoying quirks and all.

Overall it was a movie full of positive messages about body types, relationships, and acceptance. It is sure to make you laugh, cry and most importantly smile.

Rated PG-13 Find it on Netflix Run time 1 hour 50 minutes

Discover new favorite book reading “Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe”

By Mercedes Mancilla Are humans ever perfectly fine? Sure, there’s a moment in time when you feel nothing, but it never is just nothing. It’s a painful nothing. It’s sorrowful and isolating.

When most people think of the most confusing decade of their life, they’ll think of their teenage years. Not knowing who you are, who you want to be, where you’re going, you’re completely and absolutely lost.

Benjamin Alire Sáenz’s book Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe delves into how growing up is confusing, frustrating and lonely.

Aristotle aka Ari is a 15-17 year old boy who is just trying to figure out who he is. Set in El Paso, Texas in 1987, the novel follows Ari’s teenage years where he gets lost in his thoughts, feelings and slowly fills himself with self doubt.

The novel follows Ari and his newly made friend Dante, a peculiar boy who falls into a pit of art, love, and plain teenage stupidity.

www.bucsblade.com, February 22, 2019

Both characters discover that growing up as a mexican-american isn’t as easy as they imagined.

Even just growing up and finding themselves in this vast world isn’t easy either.

Sáenz has an amazing way of not only describing the emotions of Ari, but also how hard it is for him to deal with them.

The best part about the book is that Sáenz doesn’t shy away from harsh topics such as family members in jail, experimenting with sexuality, toxic masculinity and depression.

Even though Ari is just a normal kid, Sáenz has a way with words and storytelling that makes Ari’s life more interesting that it really is.

Overall Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe is a jaw-dropping novel that almost anyone can relate to. I cannot do this book justice. Every time I have read it I have sobbed my eyes out multiple times.

I promise you that you won’t be able to put the book down.

Humans fear of the fairies has brewed into deep rooted hate over the long period of separation between the two groups by a giant magical barrier.

Feyre, is a poor human living in a town near the border of fairy and human lands. She is the sole provider for her family after her father lost their fortune and she hunts every day to keep her and her sisters alive.

Everything changes for Feyre when she kills a fae in the form of a wolf in the forest, provoking the High Lord of the spring court to steal her away to the faerie lands.

The High Lord Tamlin houses Feyre in the spring court allowing her for the first time in ages not worry and soon Feyre learns to not fear the fairies she was taught to hate.

Like any good romance novel this is one filled with secrets and small gestures that you are constantly waiting to become something more.

Throughout the beginning of the book that’s all there is really little glances horse rides to the woods and the occasional evil faerie showing up to make everything a tense at the spring court manor.

However near the end the classic romance feel is completely taken over by foreboding adventure and extremely dangerous trials to prove love.

This change comes almost with no notice and it makes the book that much better. Sarah J. Maas is ingenious and there are little hints and references throughout the whole book that will have you gobsmacked when everything comes together.

Honestly this is one of my favorite romance books ever and I have now read it twice in the past three months which considering all the other things I should be doing says something about the book. Seriously as I write this I am itching to read it again.

REVIEWS 15

Three impactful shows with “Love Rosie” you’ll end up binging Fall in love

Learn love can last a lifetime

By Sophia Jaeger

Five minutes into “Love Rosie”, I knew it would become one of my all-time favorite movies. There was not a single doubt in mind as I watched one of the greatest opening scenes to a romance I have ever seen flicker before my eyes.

As Rosie (Lily Collins) appeared on screen, her face wrought with emotion, the room around me seemed to disappear and I became fixated on how she blinked, eyes glassy, slowly swallowing to hold back tears. In that first moment, It was clear I would feel every emotion the characters divulged as the movie continued.

The muffled conversation echoing from the screen were broken as Rosie’s internal voice carried the movie into the emotional journey that led her to that moment.

I became consumed as I followed Rosie through her life long friendship with Alex (Sam Claflin). Watching as her unexpected pregnancy altered the course of both their lives as Alex found himself going to America alone while Rosie started her own life in London raising her daughter.

The moments of heartbreak, hilarity and happiness all came crashing over me in unrelenting waves as I watched their journey, full of unexpected twist that constantly challenged their bond.

Both Rosie and Alex were flawed characters and while they were as close as two friends could be they struggled with the truth of their emotions. This lead to a series of unspoken sentiments and terrible timing that created an emotionally vibrant and realistic portrayal of life.

More than a romance film “Love Rosie” dives into the complexities of friendships and the impact of seemingly small choices on the overall path of life.

Time and time again Rosie and Alex are put through the wringer but they prove that showing support, understanding and forgiveness to each other creates an unmovable trust in each others friendship.

I have watched countless films about love and friendship and of all of them, I can assure this is the most realistic and moving. Not only that but it is produced in a way that no matter how many times I’ve watched it (and trust me I’ve watched it a lot). I still feel the emotional impact of the film as if it were my first time watching it.

There is no doubt in my mind that if you have a place in your heart for romance movies this will become a new favorite.

Get the drama, the adventure and the humor all while watching realistic and emotional stories of life

By Sophia Jaeger

1

Following the story of four friends growing up in an inner city neighborhood “On my Block” is a realistic portrayal of teen drama with the added element of gang violence and treasure hunting.

Not only is it a realistic portrayal of life as a teen it is also hilarious. Even though there are a lot of real and hard issues that each character deals with like avoiding life in a gang and dealing with pressure to be something their not they continue to go about things positively and each has their own comedic effect.

It’s the perfect show to get lost in and it is sure to keep you on your toes.

Rated TV-14

Find it on Netflix

Episodes 10

Seasons 1

2

If you are looking for a show that deals with current social issues all while maintaining a humorous atmosphere look no further because “One Day at a Time” is the show for you.

Surrounding the life of a Cuban American family in LA, each character offers a unique perspective on life, Penelope is a single mom raising her son and daughter with the help of her dramatic mother and each episode follows a new issue in their life big or small.

From mental illness, racism, and LGBTQ+ rights this show deals with many real life issues. Even though the show is mostly comedic when important social issues come up they handle them with care and discuss them in a way that makes you think about issues in a new light.

I have cried multiple times as I watched this show mostly because of how hard I was laughing but also because of how touching moments can be within each episode.

Painting a perfect portrayal of all the ups and downs life can bring there is no doubt this show will impact the way you view the world while also making you laugh so hard your stomach hurts.

3

Set in the 90’s “Everything Sucks” is a show about finding your place and yourself between the drama of high school.

While the show can at times dramatize certain aspects of life it offers characters with problems that any high school kid can relate to.

There’s the group of freshman boys searching for love and a place in their new school and they end up making loads of funny mistakes along their quest.

Not to mention the crazy theater kids that can’t wait for their big break and randomly break out into dramatic numbers that leave you grinning. Or the principal’s daughter who is adorably awkward and extremely embarrassed of her dad.

All of them are going through the process of figuring out who they are questioning how they want to be seen by others and how they see themselves.

Whilst doing this they manage to form unlikely friendships and go on adventures.

In the end this is the perfect feel good series to watch in your free time. Just be warned the show itself has been canceled so you will never really know how it ends.

Rated R

Rated TV-PG

Find it on Netflix

Rated TV-14

Find it on Netflix

Find it on Netflix

Episodes 39

Seasons 3

Episodes 10

Seasons 1

Run time 1 hour 42 minutes

16 REVIEWS

www.bucsblade.com, February 22, 2019

Klinger’s adventures inspire his teaching

By Lexi Tater

J

ason Klinger was 8 years old when he stood in Germany and watched in amazement as the Berlin wall came to the ground.

He was speechless as he watched the large concrete blocks fall. Graffiti sprayed on the walls with letters to lost loved ones eventually fell apart, but families and lovers who were affected by this wall were finally able to reconnect in person.

This was the moment he fell in love with history. But little did he know he would be teaching his students about this event 30 years later.

When he was younger, he traveled often to many different countries with his family.

For Klinger, a Britain-born and 1999 grad currently in his third year of full time teaching, the Berlin Wall story is one of many first-hand travel experiences he uses to make his social studies classes come alive. He finds that he teaches best when he can bring in information from his life, not just a textbook.

“One of the things I teach best is the Holocaust,” Klinger said. “ I teach that so well because my parents took me to those places, so, I’ve been to Auschwitz, and I’ve been to some of the other camps. When you’re there, you really experience it in such a different way.”

His students appreciate how his traveling experiences have influenced his teaching.

“His experiences abroad have helped him become a better teacher,” sophomore Gabby Scott said. “With world history he can bring in his knowledge that you can only obtain from living in another country.”

His traveling has helped him become the person he is today.

“I think I’ve got a pretty quirky, nerdy vibe,” Klinger said. ¨You know, the guy who reads a lot.”

Aaron Blain has taught history alongside Klinger for 3 years and he has observed the attitudes and opportunities Klinger has opened for his students.

“Mr. Klinger is really an A-class teacher,” Blain

www.bucsblade.com, February 22, 2019

said. “He really finds ways to connect with each of his students, and that greatly impacts his teaching.”

As the Model U.N. advisor, Klinger also uses his first hand experiences in education and around the globe to bring his students a multitude of different experiences.

“We’ve been to Chicago, MSU and Ann Arbor,” Klinger said. “And I know that it is a big step, but ... I hope that Model U.N. will get the chance to travel to Europe and attend a conference there.”

Because of Grand Haven’s small size, Klinger finds some people are not as inclined to understand cultures other than their own.

“A lot of Model U.N. clubs tend to look at things from the American perspective, not from global perspectives,” senior Lilly Mears said. “They will look at other countries based on America’s view on those countries, rather than how those countries actually see themselves. He encourages us to go beyond that. He tells us we should research independent news sources to find international perspectives.”

Klinger puts a lot of effort into Model U.N. “I think that the most important way that his international perspective affects the club is in his willingness to be our advisor at all,” Mears said.

“It’s a lot of sacrificed weekends, arcane rules, and independent work … we could never do it without Mr. Klinger. It really is a lot of work for someone to take on.”

His Model U.N. kids greatly appreciate his dedication and drive when it comes to advising and working with students.

“It takes a lot of motivation to be willing to do all that, and Mr. Klinger has that motivation because he pays more attention to global affairs than a lot of adults do,” Mears said. “He recognizes the importance of training the next generation to think more globally, and it’s a priority for him.”

Klinger doesn’t only work with students in Grand Haven, but he also helps with programs at Spring Lake that he founded. He also provided the resources and framework for others to establish programs in West Ottawa and Grandville.

“I think that I like to give them practical things, so if I can find a practical application of the real world, I do,” Klinger said.

“It’s pretty important for them to see a connection between what they’re learning and what they are living or else there’s no point in learning it.”

Maddie Monroe THE BUCS’ BLADE MAP IT OUT: Klinger poses in front of his world map. He likes to travel and share his stories with his students. “His experiences abroad have helped him become a better teacher,” sophomore Gabby Scott said. “With world history he can bring in his knowledge that you can only obtain from living in another country.”

Paige Horist THE BUCS’ BLADE CLASSROOM COMMUNITY: Klinger lectures his fourth hour world history class. “Mr. Klinger is really an A-class teacher,” Blain said. “He really finds ways to connect with each of his students, and that greatly impacts his teaching.”

LIFE 17

FORGING FOR

FUN

In his free time, sophomore Noah TenHagen uses his blacksmith skills to create practical knives for hunting

By Morgan Womack and Carlos Rappleye

18 LIFE

Carlos Rappleye THE BUCS’ BLADE February 22, 2019 www.bucsblade.com

GRIND TIME: TenHagen uses an angle grinder to cut a piece of steel he is going to make into a knife.

The process of making a knife is simple, but there is a lot of work that needs to be put into it. “(After cutting the steel) I will weld a handle onto it and then it goes into the forge and then it gets beat on until it’s in shape, then a lot of grinding,” TenHagen said.

Carlos Rappleye THE BUCS’ BLADE

Carlos Rappleye THE BUCS’ BLADE

LOOKIN’ SHARP: On TenHagen’s workbench sit his collection of knives that he has made over the past two years. Some of them he made from scratch, others he polished up.

He uses his knives during hunting season. “I enjoy making knives because I use knives,” TenHagen said. “I definitely would prefer to use the knife that I made in November over a knife that I bought from Meijer. I made it. There’s a part of me in it. I know how it was made, I know the ins and outs of the knife, I know it’s going to be a sturdy, stable knife.”

Carlos Rappleye THE BUCS’ BLADE

BRUSH IT OFF: TenHagen brushes the slag off of his blade after preliminary heating in the wood furnace. “When it goes in the fire it’s just getting hot and once it gets to a certain temperature it loses (magnetism) it won’t stick to a magnet,” TenHagen said. “That’s when it has the ability to harden. Right now it’s soft, you can hear how dull it sounds. I tried last night to harden it and it didn’t take the harden, so hopefully today it’ll take the harden and do what it’s supposed to do, which is get hard and become a knife.”

HANDYMAN: TenHagen displays the steel he sculpted into the shape of a knife. Although it isn’t complete, it’s a start to a well-made knife. He started making knives last year in April. “I was watching that TV show 'Forged in Fire' and I was like ‘Hey, I want to do that,’” TenHagen said.

“The knives that I’ve made the most, they’re different shapes and styles but they’re mainly just utility bushcraft hunting knives.”

SMITHING GLOSSARY NORMALIZING- an essential step in blacksmithing involving heating and cooling cycles to relieve stress in the blade and refine the grain structure TEMPERING- a heat treatment applied to steel to reduce hardness so it can be shaped SLAG- stony waste that comes from the furnace and sticks to the blade TANG- piece of metal attached to the blade that the handle is formed around Carlos Rappleye THE BUCS’ BLADE

www.bucsblade.com, February 22, 2019

LIFE 19

RECORD: 11-11

HOCKEY

KEY ATHLETES: Junior Cooper Fox and senior Trevor Kalis are a dynamic duo with great chemistry heading the Buccaneer attack. Seniors Christian Forbes, Kyle Eveland, and junior Nate Beers also provide leadership and experience and allow the Bucs to play great team hockey.

THEY SAID IT: “We’ve been playing ok but we got some guys back from injury” senior Trevor Kalis said.

“We’re playing better now that we have them back and have more depth”.

UP NEXT: The Bucs face off against Jenison at the Lakeshore Ice Arena at 7:30 p.m. tonight for a conference

battle

WINTER SPORTS UPDATE BOYS BASKETBALL

BOYS SWIM

SKIING RECORD: Boys (4th in O-K Red), Girls (7th in O-K

Red)

WHAT’S HAPPENING:

With Regionals quickly approaching, some swim and dive teams are sweating buckets at this point in the season. Not Grand Haven. The team is confident and hyped. knowing that their key players such as

KEY ATHLETES:

Senior Jackson Hamm, junior Carter Brown, senior Mark Wilgenburg, and additional relay teams and ndividuals have already qualified for states.

Meaning that the impossible work of shifting their training schedule is seduced, making the training more bearable for the up and coming qualified athletes.

KEY ATHLETES: Girls Key Players: Senior Sarah Walker, who is one of the team captain and has exemplified great leadership. She has had a special year this year at slalom.

Kate Kendall, who is a freshman and is already their first to second racer, and has performed strongly at GS. Guys Key Players: Ryan Tongue, who is a first year skier showing amazing potential. He has a unique park background that gives him an edge when it comes to fast footwork. Mitch Bosgraaf is also having an exceptional season THEY SAID IT:

“I am hoping to have an extremely talented team this year and to qualify the whole team for states” says optimistic junior Jack Hardebeck

UP NEXT: There are no more meets as the official season has come to an end.

THEY SAID IT: “We have some very strong swimmers. We’re looking really good,” junior Jack Stork said.

“We’re in a very good spot right now, because the people we wanted to qualified for states have already qualified.”

UP NEXT:

The boys will be heading to the nest at Hudsonville for regionals this Friday the 22nd starting at 4

20 SPORTS

Pictured: Jack Hardebeck

RECORD: 9-8 overall, 4-5 in O-K Red KEY ATHLETES: Senior point guard Casey Constant has been a huge asset for the team this season, proving he can shoot the three ball as well as drive to the hoop to score. Constant’s partner in crime on the court comes in senior guard Bryce Taylor, these two athletes on the court at the same time is bad news for opposing squads. Junior Owen Ross has had a breakout season having multiple double digit scoring performances on the season. His high caliber of play has been huge for the Bucs this season. .

THEY SAID IT: “I feel like we have a good starting five this year and that we have a lot of depth this year,” senior guard Bryce Taylor said.

UP NEXT: The Bucs travel up to Traverse City to take on Traverse City West and look to continue their winning ways.

February 22, 2019, www.bucsblade.com

Seven Grand look Haven An in-depth sports on howteams eachqualify of for postseason play the competitive in a very entertaining Buccaneer winter fall sports season sports teams arefor Grand Haven athletics

competing in their respective divisons

GIRLS WRESTLING GOLF RECORD: 13-6, 4th in O-K Conference

BOWLING RECORD: 10-4, 5th in the OK Red Conference

KEY ATHLETES: Senior Cody Miller and junior KEY ATHLETES: Riley Rhone head to regional action to try to compete for a state championship. They led their team to dominant wins, one only allowing 6 points in the entire meet. Junior Chance Heineman also has a dominant season for the squad, giving momentum to the team for the next year.

THEY SAID IT: “The season went really well,” junior Michael Russo said. “From what coach Gervais said, it’s one of our best records these over these past few years. I saw a lot of growth with my teammates.”

UP NEXT: The wrestling regular season is over, but the postseason begins for Miller and Rhone.

Senior Jonathan Garland, and Sophomore Collin Prokopec. Garland can put a lot of revs on the bowling ball, and Prokopec has the ability to play straight. Garland just recently put up 445 points in a game against Caledonia .

THEY SAID IT: “This season was all about rebuilding and learning,” Garland said. “While we did win a tournament, we have a team of mostly freshmen. A lot of what happened this year was about learning,” Garland said

.WHAT’S NEW: The team played under a new coach in Max Golden this season and were able to grow as a team both chemistry wise and skill wise.

GIRLS BASKETBALL

RECORD: 14-3 overall, 7-3 in O-K Red Conference KEY ATHLETES: Senior Alli Keyser, who has been a force this season in the scoring department. Most recently, Keyser broke Grand Haven’s all-time scoring record with 1,314 points, when the previous record was held by Emma Veach. Senior Esther Byington has also been a key contributor with her inside presence, forming a formidable one-two combo with Keyser. From the perimeter, junior Jolee Houle has been the team’s sharp-shooter, most notably with a 21-point performance against West Ottawa.

THEY SAID IT: “I’m proud of the team that we’ve become and how we all play for each other,” senior center Olivia McMullen said. “I’m looking forward to all of us growing stronger both individually and as a team.”

NEXT GAME: The Lady Bucs have a challenging end to their season with road games against East Kentwood and Muskegon, as well as a home contest with Rockford. www.bucsblade.com, February 22, 2018

SPORTS 21

Maddie Monroe THE BUCS BLADE JACK OF ALL TRADES: A three-sport athlete is a rare commodity these days. Yet, in the fall, Eveland is a top five runner in cross country. In the winter, Eveland plays hockey and is nicknamed “Body Bag” for his giant, vicious hits. In the spring, Eveland excels on the oval where he runs track. He prides himself on his commitment and work ethic for each of his sports, which may be why he’s so talented in all three.

THE TALENTED MR. EVELAND As his high school athletic career comes to a close, senior Kyle Eveland is working to cement his legacy along Grand Haven athletes as the rarest of them all By Ashton Vorhees

HOCKEY 10 goals and 11 assists in 21 appearances this season CROSS COUNTRY PR time of 16:43.7 at 2018 reigonals TRACK & FIELD PR time of 53.22 in 400 meter dash 22 SPORTS

T

To be successful in a single sport, just a young, skinny guy and had you have to pour in a lot of commit- no idea how good he could be.”

A couple years later, Eveland was ment and effort into perfecting it. In three different ones, you need the same the runner who scored the one point level of commitment and then some. they needed to win the conference Eveland knows this, and embraces it meet. However, he still wasn’t satisfied, throughout all of his three-sport season. so he made a big decision. He decided to switch sports “He’s a hard from lacrosse to worker, he’s relenttrack in order to less,” hockey coach He has the rare stay in shape for Keegan Ferris said. characteristic of cross country.

“He has the rare intrinsic motivation “I wanted to do characteristic of and he hates the idea as good as I posintrinsic motivaof losing. sibly could in cross tion and he hates -Head Coach country for my sethe idea of losKeegan Ferris nior year,” Eveland ing; he’ll do anysaid. “Playing lathing it takes within the bounds of the rules to win.” crosse, I felt like I was behind because Eveland’s desire to win has drove him I wasn’t in track and putting in miles to push his boundaries and has pushed with the rest of the team so I felt like him to pick up new sports in order to making the switch was the right thing.”

Even though the switch was the right help him succeed in his other ones.

“He came out for cross coun- thing to do to put his best foot forward try just to stay in shape,” cross coun- in cross country, it still wasn’t easy to try coach John Tarr said. “He was leave teammates and fun times behind

“

“

EVERYTHING EVELAND

here’s only 55 seconds left on the clock and with the conference title on the line, the puck lies at Northview’s end of the rink for a face-off. All is calm before the storm. The puck is thrown down and it zooms back to the Grand Haven defense. A shot was ripped towards the goal, but it was blocked, and slid out to senior Kyle Eveland. And just like in practice, he shoots - and he scores.

Eveland lives for the big moments like these. In fact, when the game is on the line, Eveland is on his prime.

He’s a rare three-sport athlete. He runs cross country in the fall, hits the hockey rink in the winter, and runs track in the spring. From the beginning of the school year to the last day, Eveland usually has some sort of practice or game on his schedule. This can make juggling his commitments tough.

“It can be hard at first,” Eveland said. “But I’ve gotten used to it since I have a practice or a game every day for practically the whole year.”

in lacrosse. But with how demanding sports are nowadays, even in their offseasons, Eveland knew it was what he had to do to stay ahead of the pack.

“Sports are becoming not just season sports but year-round sports,” Eveland said. “There’s practices all through summer and through the offseason that it’s hard enough to play just one sport.”

Even though you see less threesport athletes nowadays due to the fact that it’s a lot harder. This can mostly be attributed to the shift to continual training for one sport. Yet, Eveland shows it’s not impossible. Balancing school and a social life with the sports is feasible, but you have to embrace the difficulties and stay dedicated.

“Being a three sport athlete is no joke with the expectations that are there for all three sports,” Ferris said. “But he does it all with a smile on his face. He does his job in the classroom and has that balance in his life, and can also still be a kid and hang out with his friends. It’s hard to do, but he loves it, that’s the big difference.”

February 22, 2019, www.bucsblade.com

Calling It Like I See It Sam Woiteshek

Players play, but haters hate

Diving Deeper

Addy Wachter THE BUCS’ BLADE TAKING A DIVE: Malott executes a challenging dive during a meet. The junior brightens the squad’s spirits with his energy that is often contagious for everyone around him. This also is noticeable in the style of Malott’s leadership and personality.

Junior diver Louie Malott acts as a leader on and off of the board in team’s recent success By Macayla Cramer Chlorine lingers in the air as junior Louie Malott struts intently across the diving board. His teammates follow his precise choreographed movements with anticipation, waiting for his dive.

Moments leading up to it, Malott focuses on nothing and nobody, only visualizing what he needs to do to best execute it.

With diving, as with any sport, there are numerous stereotypes following it’s athletes. Yet, most divers do not feel defined by these schemas. There is no better example of that than Malott.

Malott is all too familiar with the juvenile comments and can safely say the trivial flips and spins are not equivalent to the mental and physical battle every diver overcomes.

“It is hard,” Malott said. “It’s one of the hardest sports I’ve ever played and I play a lot of sports. It’s mentally challenging.”

It’s no surprise that Malott has become one of the biggest names currently on the Grand Haven diving team, however, becoming a diver was a surprise to him. Before the sport even crossed his radar, Malott as had a deep infatuation with tricks and flips.

Whether it’s been on the trampoline or down at the ski bowl, Malott has loved to push the boundaries of what he’s capable of doing. So, when a family friend recruited him to try diving Malott couldn’t turn away the challenge. “[The sport] just took things from there,” Malott said. “So when I’m skiing and doing flips and stuff it makes it a www.bucsblade.com, February 22, 2019

How To Do a Forward Two and a Half Dive 1. Start running forwards on the board 2. Jump off 3. Spin your body forward into two front flips 4. Keep rotating 5. Finish by landing on your head lot easier for me to land things and I’m a lot more aware of my body because of [dive].”

Most on the team can unanimously agree Malott is the “Energizer Bunny”; he just keeps on going. His hyped nature and humorous personality never fade through the grueling hours of training or at the prolong meets.

In fact, Malott is always laughing with his teammates, giving them constant encouragement to help lessen the nerves. He also recruits others to share a sport that as quickly become one of his passions. “[Louie is] a great diver and [he provides] fantastic encouragement,” junior Carter Jones-Hirr said.

Malott is a complex individual. With numerous sports in his arsenal, a dash of questionable decision making, and a boatload of nerve, Malott is a Grand Haven modern day Philippe Petit, the famous French high wire artist..

“Everyone should experience Louie,” junior Jack Stork said. “I notice everyone is a little more happier when he’s around. He raises morale.”

With this season closing and states looming, it leaves Malott’s last season on the horizon and his future up for grabs. However, the junior knows he wants diving to be a hobby he carries over from high school to college, preferably Northern Michigan University or another destination.

Yet, it’s safe to say that whatever Malott decides to do, his love for pushing the limits whether that be gravity or anything else will be in his pocket for the ride.

“Diving is like a mental battle with yourself.; you want to perform for others around you. You have to overcome your fear and yourself,” Malott said.

“It’s easier for me to overcome fear now because I’ve been overcoming it ever since I started diving.”

As I sat and watched the world’s most lifeless affair - Super Bowl LIII - I couldn’t help but think: Tom Brady is about to get his sixth ring. It seemed unlikely that a mediocre quarterback could possibly have a stranglehold on the NFL. So I thought a little deeper. Brady is the G.O.A.T. of the NFL, but how much of his success can be attributed to his play alone?

The answer? Maybe only half - at most.

Yes, Brady has six rings, but look at the games he’s played in. One was due to a game-winning kick by Adam Vinatieri, another a miracle interception at the goal-line and most recently, an all-star performance by Julian Edelman and the Pats defense.

Take that away and he’s only slightly better than Eli Manning, in theory. Yikes.

When I looked at the broader spectrum of pro sports, I found this to be true on all levels. Praise Nick Saban all you want for his job at Alabama, but don’t deny the fact that he flopped with LSU and the Miami Dolphins.

In the NBA, the Pistons have Blake Griffin, who has to score 50 points for Detroit to get a win these days. Otherwise, the Pistons lose. However, in LA, Griffin could have an off night and it wouldn’t matter because the Clippers had Chris Paul.

And of course, Tom Brady. The man has Bill Belichick, a severely underrated offensive line and finally a run game, the latter being the most impactful to a deep run in the playoffs. Tom Brady on, say the Buffalo Bills? I don’t think they make the playoffs.

I know we all love to hate these teams and claim the league is rigged, but I am here to advise you against that. Don’t hate the game, hate the player.

It’s uncanny the way players polarize sports. At times, they make fans feel an extreme high, only to be let down in an extreme low. Then, the very same fans turn to a different aspect, saying “the refs were bad” or “that’s how it goes sometimes”.

No, that’s completely untrue. In sports everything happens because of something. The littlest of decisions result in monumental results.

Given how much we as humans love to assign blame, I’m surprised us sportslovers haven’t been able to discover this sooner. It’s rather startling to think that certain people, especially the ones listed above, are exempt from scrutiny.

If you need a closer look, I’d suggest watching our boys basketball team. It’s no secret that much of the offense runs through Casey Constant, Grand Haven’s senior point guard. Therefore, the margin between winning and losing lies on the back of number eleven each game.

Yes, it’s completely unfair to the team and it shouldn’t be that way, but it is the truth, even if nobody wants to admit it.

Conversely, the girls basketball team is a complete unit. Alli Keyser can score from just about anywhere on the court with her talent and speed, but Esther Byington’s presence around the basket is equally as dangerous. Add in Jolee Houle’s sharp perimeter shooting and Dahlia Jerosvek’s stalwart defense and it’s easy to see why they’re top ten in the state.

The best part about it is that you can’t hate the player, you can only hate the game.

Nevertheless, the success of sports have and will continue to predicate upon the faces of their franchises. They sell tickets and jerseys and in large part keep interest levels high.

And it pays too. Sports is an industry where young stars become millionaires because they can throw, dunk or hit a ball better than anyone else. When six zeroes are on the table, it’s natural for everyone to lose sight of the concept.

Yet, history has shown that these same athletes are only as good as the people surrounding them. You have to learn to appreciate the team in spite of the player, not the other way around.

There is no “I” in team, but there is one in ignorance.

SPORTS 23

Running Wild Alpacas Bohdi Tree Juice Bowler Bros Guitars

Washington Avenue

Beacon Avenue

N. Ferry Street

Sol + Sage Off the Record

Pennoyer Avenue

The east side of Grand Haven may not have the heated streets and beach front view that is afforded to Downtown, but what it lacks in location it makes up for in small business charm. A plethora of storefronts that appeal to the more free-spirited shopper dot the other side of the Washington strip, including Off the Record, a record store with an extensive collection dating back to 1860, Bohdi Tree Juice, a juice bar that boasts house-made cold pressed juices, and many other small shops. Be sure to check out the east side on a day off, you just might find a new favorite haunt.

OFF THE RECORD: Formerly known as The Corner Record Store, this shop lives through its vintage taste. Off the Record sells vinyls and records from 2019 all the way back to 1860, along with cuts from local artists. Off the Record has been on the east side for over 3 years and recently changed owners. “We have a very diverse section of music and if we don’t have what you are looking for, we can order almost anything,” owner Jon Van Oss said.

1114 Washington Avenue

24 PHOTO

Grand Haven’s east side keeps small town feel

By Addy Wachter and Paige Horist

EAST SIDE PRIDE: A customer walks towards Off the Record. Grand Haven’s east side is packed with small businesses, including Frank’s Meat Market, Hope’s Outlet, yoga studios and artisan juice shops.

The area continues the downtown strip across the highway, connecting the east side of the town to the riverfront. “I love being able to connect with the customers, the banter that an environment like this creates is great,” Bohdi Tree Juice employee John Randel said.

RUNNING WILD ALPACAS: Ever wanted to learn how to knit? Running wild alpacas use real alpaca wool to knit socks, sweaters, and scarves. Owners Kristine Lynch and Jan Wierenga each raise their own alpaca families ensuring the wool they use is fresh. They have been in Grand Haven for just under a year and hope to stay. 1113 Washington Ave.

BODHI TREE JUICE: This little shop prides itself on having the most organic juices in town.

Bodhi moved into their current location nine months ago. They make all of their own juices in house. Recently, the shop has expanded their business into Grand Rapids and has plans to continue to grow. 1119 Washington Ave.

SOL+SAGE: Positive vibes is the main priority for this yoga studio and boutique. The studio focuses on eliminating negative energy through herbs, incense and different organic oils. The yoga studio is located in the back of the store, and features fitness classes for all levels of experience. 1116 Washington Ave.

BOWLER BROS GUITARS: A staple of the east side, Bowler Bros has been in business for seven years. The store features an extensive collection of instruments for beginners and for seasoned collectors. The store also does guitar repairs, lessons, and builds their own products.

1121 Washington Ave.

February 22, 2019, www.bucsblade.com